Hotel Kitchen Fires: 5 Common Causes and Powerful Insights

8/28/2023 (Permalink)

When flames dance, SERVPRO is there!

Hotel kitchen fires can erupt suddenly, wreaking havoc on property, assets, and reputation. 

As a property owner or manager, understanding the leading causes of a hotel kitchen fire is paramount to prevention and recovery. In this blog post, we delve into the common causes of hotel kitchen fires and shed light on a recent incident in Atlanta where SERVPRO® and their exceptional fire restoration services came to the rescue. Discover how SERVPRO can be your steadfast partner in fire-related distress.

What are common signs of hotel kitchen fires?

In the fast-paced environment of a hotel kitchen, recognizing the signs of an impending fire is vital. Detecting these early signs can prevent a minor issue from escalating into a catastrophic event. Watch for flickering or sparking electrical outlets, a lingering burning smell, or excessive smoke during cooking. Promptly addressing these signs can save lives and property.

What are the leading causes of hotel kitchen fires?

Hotel kitchen fires often originate from avoidable causes. The leading culprits include:

• Grease buildup: Neglected cleaning routines can accumulate grease in kitchen hoods, vents, and exhaust systems. Over time, this buildup becomes a combustible hazard that can ignite quickly, engulfing the kitchen in flames.
• Electrical malfunctions: Faulty wiring, damaged outlets, and malfunctioning kitchen appliances can trigger electrical fires. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to identify and address potential hazards before they escalate.
• Unattended cooking: The chaos of a hotel kitchen can sometimes result in distracted chefs or cooks leaving their cooking stations alone. A moment's distraction and a lack of cooking safety can lead to overheating and ignition of flammable materials, causing a fire to break out.
• Combustible storage: Improper storage of flammable materials—such as oils, cleaning supplies, and paper products—near heat sources or open flames can escalate a minor incident into a devastating fire.
• Equipment failure: Malfunctioning kitchen equipment, such as stoves, ovens, and deep fryers, can generate sparks or excessive heat, igniting nearby materials.

5 SERVPRO tips to prevent hotel kitchen fires

Prevention is the cornerstone of fire safety in any commercial kitchen setting. Consider implementing these measures:

1. Regular maintenance: Schedule routine inspections and maintenance for kitchen equipment, exhaust systems, and electrical components to identify and rectify potential fire hazards.
2. Proper training: Ensure all kitchen staff undergoes comprehensive fire safety training, emphasizing the importance of vigilance, safe cooking practices, and swift action in case of a fire emergency.
3. Adequate storage: Store flammable materials in designated, well-ventilated areas, away from heat sources. Implement strict storage protocols to prevent accidental ignition.
4. Fire suppression systems: Install effective fire suppression systems, such as automatic sprinklers and fire extinguishers, to swiftly contain and extinguish fires before they escalate.
5. Regular cleaning: Maintain a stringent cleaning schedule for kitchen hoods, vents, and exhaust systems to prevent grease buildup and reduce fire risk.

A swift response to a hotel kitchen fire in Atlanta

Earlier this year, a bustling hotel in Atlanta faced a nightmare scenario when a kitchen fire erupted unexpectedly. The flames quickly spread due to accumulated grease in the exhaust system, causing extensive damage to the kitchen and adjoining areas. Panicked staff evacuated guests while the local fire department worked to extinguish the blaze.

Once the fire was out, the hotel's management turned to SERVPRO for our renowned fire restoration services. Recognizing the urgency, the SERVPRO team arrived promptly, comprehensively assessing the damage. Our skilled technicians meticulously cleaned and restored the kitchen, eliminating all soot, smoke, and odor traces. With their advanced equipment and expertise, they salvaged many kitchen appliances, preventing further financial strain on the hotel.

The management was impressed by SERVPRO's swift response and our transparent communication throughout the restoration process. The hotel reopened its doors quickly, minimizing revenue loss and maintaining its reputation for impeccable service.

Why choose SERVPRO for hotel kitchen fire restoration?

In the wake of a hotel kitchen fire, choosing the right restoration partner is crucial. Here's why SERVPRO stands out:

• Immediate response: SERVPRO understands the urgency of fire-related disasters. With a 24/7 emergency hotline, they're ready to respond swiftly, mitigating damage and reducing downtime.
• Expertise and equipment: Backed by years of experience, SERVPRO's technicians are trained in the latest restoration techniques and equipped with state-of-the-art tools to tackle even the most challenging fire damage scenarios.
• Comprehensive restoration: From cleaning and deodorizing to repairing and rebuilding, SERVPRO offers a full spectrum of restoration services, ensuring your property is returned to its pre-fire condition efficiently.
• Minimized disruption: SERVPRO works diligently to expedite the restoration process, minimizing disruptions to your business operations and helping you get back on your feet faster.
• Proven track record: With countless successful fire restoration projects, SERVPRO has earned a reputation for excellence in the industry.

Conclusion

Hotel kitchen fires are a severe threat that can have far-reaching consequences. By understanding the common causes and implementing preventive measures, property owners and managers can significantly reduce the risk of such incidents. However, having a reliable partner like SERVPRO can make all the difference when disaster strikes. Our prompt response, technical expertise, and dedication to restoring your property swiftly and efficiently set them apart as the go-to choice for commercial fire restoration services. Choose SERVPRO of South Cobb for peace of mind in the face of hotel kitchen fires.

Personal Protective Equipment in Restoration: 5 Safety Reasons

7/31/2023 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO always show up with the proper personal protective equipment.

Learn how personal protective equipment (PPE) keeps all parties safe during a restoration project.

When handling restoration jobs, the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) cannot be overstated. At SERVPRO®, we recognize the inherent risks involved in restoring damaged properties, and we take the safety of our professionals and customers seriously. 

In this blog post, we will delve into the five crucial reasons why PPE is essential in restoration work, explore the various items of PPE used by our restoration experts, discuss when restoration professionals employ PPE, and conclude with why choosing SERVPRO of South Cobb for any restoration damages is a wise decision.

What is personal protective equipment (PPE)? 

Before we delve into the significance of PPE in restoration work, it is essential to understand what it entails. Personal protective equipment, commonly known as PPE, refers to specialized clothing, gear, and equipment designed to safeguard individuals from potential hazards and injuries in the workplace. 

In restoration jobs, PPE is a protective barrier against various risks, including exposure to harmful substances, airborne contaminants, and physical hazards.

5 crucial reasons PPE is essential in restoration jobs

1. Protection against hazardous substances: during restoration projects, professionals often encounter dangerous substances such as mold, asbestos, or lead. PPE, such as respirators, gloves, and coveralls, protects against inhalation, skin contact, and ingestion of these substances. Using PPE, SERVPRO professionals mitigate the risk of short-term health issues and long-term complications associated with exposure to hazardous materials.
2. Respiratory safety: restoration sites may harbor airborne particles, dust, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can have detrimental effects. By wearing appropriate respirators, SERVPRO experts safeguard their lungs from inhaling these potentially harmful substances. This proactive approach not only ensures the well-being of our professionals but also prevents the spread of contaminants.
3. Prevention of physical injuries: restoration sites can present physical hazards such as sharp objects, debris, or unstable structures. PPE— such as hard hats, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots—protects against these risks, significantly reducing the likelihood of injuries. By prioritizing PPE, SERVPRO professionals minimize accidents and maintain a safe work environment.
4. Containment of contaminants: effective containment is a crucial aspect of restoration projects, especially when dealing with mold, water damage, or biohazardous materials. PPE, including coveralls, gloves, and shoe covers, creates a barrier that prevents the spread of contaminants to unaffected areas. SERVPRO professionals understand the importance of containing hazards to ensure the safety of both their team and the property's occupants.
5. Compliance with regulations: restoration work is subject to various regulations and guidelines set forth by government agencies (OSHA) and industry standards. By adhering to these regulations and employing appropriate PPE, SERVPRO ensures compliance and maintains the highest level of professionalism. Compliance with PPE requirements showcases our commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

What items of PPE do SERVPRO professionals use? 

At SERVPRO of South Cobb, our professionals are equipped with a comprehensive range of PPE to address the diverse challenges encountered in restoration jobs. Some of the items of PPE used by our experts include:

• Respiratory protection:
• N95 or higher-rated respirators
• Full-face respirators with appropriate cartridges
• Protective clothing:
• Coveralls or disposable suits
• Gloves (nitrile, latex, or chemical-resistant)
• Eye and face protection:
• Safety glasses or goggles
• Face shields for additional protection
• Foot protection:
• Steel-toed boots or shoe covers
• Head protection:
• Hard hats or helmets

These items of PPE are carefully selected to provide optimal protection for our professionals and ensure their safety throughout the restoration process.

When do restoration professionals use PPE? 

At SERVPRO of South Cobb, our professionals strictly adhere to PPE protocols to ensure maximum safety during restoration projects. PPE is utilized in the following scenarios:

• During initial assessment: even during the initial evaluation of a restoration job, our professionals prioritize their safety by wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. The PPE allows them to identify potential hazards and establish necessary precautions before commencing the restoration process.
• During cleanup and removal: when handling contaminated materials, mold remediation, or water damage restoration, our experts wear personal protective equipment to protect themselves from exposure. Personal protective equipment ensures their well-being and prevents cross-contamination between areas.
• During deodorization and sanitization: in situations where deodorization or sanitization is required, our professionals use PPE to safeguard themselves against the potentially harmful chemicals or fumes involved in the process. This approach guarantees our team and the property's occupants a safe environment.

Why choose SERVPRO for restoration? 

Choosing the right restoration service provider is paramount when facing property damage. Here's why SERVPRO stands out as the premier choice:

1. Extensive experience and expertise: With years of industry experience and a team of highly skilled professionals, SERVPRO has established itself as a trusted leader in the restoration industry. Our experts possess the knowledge and expertise to handle a wide range of restoration projects, ensuring exceptional results every time.
2. Commitment to safety and quality: SERVPRO prioritizes the safety of its professionals and customers above all else. By adhering to strict safety protocols and utilizing proper personal protective equipment, we create a secure environment for everyone involved. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our attention to detail, advanced equipment, and the use of industry best practices.
3. Rapid response and 24/7 availability: emergencies can strike anytime, so SERVPRO is available 24/7 to promptly address restoration needs. Our swift response time ensures that damages are mitigated, and the restoration process begins as quickly as possible, minimizing further property deterioration.
4. Comprehensive services: SERVPRO offers an extensive range of restoration services, including water damage restoration, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold remediation, and more. We streamline the restoration process and ensure efficient and effective results by providing a one-stop solution.
5. Insurance coordination: dealing with insurance claims can be complex and time-consuming. SERVPRO simplifies the process by offering seamless coordination with insurance companies. Our experts work closely with insurance adjusters, providing detailed documentation and assistance, ensuring our customers have a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Wrapping up

Personal protective equipment is the backbone of safety in restoration jobs, and at SERVPRO of South Cobb, we take its usage seriously. By understanding the importance of personal protective equipment and employing it diligently, our professionals prioritize their safety and the safety of our customers. 

With our extensive experience, commitment to safety and quality, rapid response, comprehensive services, and insurance coordination, choosing SERVPRO for any restoration job ensures professionalism, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Trust the experts at SERVPRO of South Cobb to restore your property with precision and care while upholding the utmost safety standards throughout the restoration process.

Mastering Summer Humidity Control: 5 Expert Tips for Comfort

6/26/2023 (Permalink)

Understanding humidity control is essential for protecting your property from moisture damage.

Understanding humidity control will ensure your property avoids unwanted moisture damage this summer. 

When the summer season arrives, so does the relentless heat and oppressive humidity. As the temperature rises, so does the moisture in the air, making it challenging to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. 

High humidity levels can lead to problems like mold growth, musty odors, and even moisture damage to your belongings. That's why it's crucial to take control of summer humidity and create a serene oasis within your home. 

In this blog post, we will explore five essential tips to help you combat summer humidity and keep your living space cool, dry, and enjoyable. 

What is humidity control? 

Humidity control refers to maintaining optimal moisture levels in the air within your home during the summer months. By managing humidity, you can create a more comfortable indoor environment, prevent moisture-related problems, and improve the overall air quality.

How to test humidity levels?

Testing humidity levels in your property is essential to determine whether they are within the recommended range. Here are a couple of methods you can use to test humidity levels:

• Hygrometer: A hygrometer is the most accurate and convenient way to measure humidity. This device is specifically designed to measure and display relative humidity. There are various types of hygrometers available, including digital and analog options. Place the hygrometer in the area you want to test; it will give you an accurate reading of the humidity levels.
• Dew point calculation: Another method to estimate humidity levels is by calculating the dew point. The dew point is the temperature at which the air becomes saturated, and condensation occurs. You can use an online dew point calculator or a handheld device that measures temperature and humidity to determine the dew point. By comparing the current temperature with the dew point, you can gauge the relative humidity in the air.

By regularly testing the humidity levels in your property, you can identify potential issues and take appropriate measures to control and maintain optimal humidity for a comfortable living environment.

What are the effects of high humidity?

When humidity levels rise, moisture saturates the air, leading to several adverse consequences. Excessive humidity can cause many problems, such as condensation on windows and surfaces, musty odors, and a clammy, uncomfortable atmosphere. 

Additionally, high humidity creates an ideal breeding ground for mold, mildew, and dust mites, which can thrive in damp environments. Moreover, prolonged exposure to high humidity can damage furniture, wooden structures, and electronic equipment, leading to warping, corrosion, and malfunction.

5 tips to control humidity this summer

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends keeping indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. Humidity levels below 30% can lead to dry air and respiratory discomfort, while levels above 50% can promote mold growth and cause damage to furniture and other belongings. Here are some tips to help keep the humidity levels in your property in the desired range:

1. Proper ventilation: Proper ventilation is vital for humidity control. Ensure your home has adequate airflow by opening windows and doors whenever possible. Utilize exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove excess moisture. Additionally, consider installing attic and whole-house fans to promote air circulation and reduce humidity levels.
2. Air conditioning and dehumidification: Air conditioning not only cools the air but also helps to dehumidify it. Set your air conditioner to the "cool" and "dry" modes to remove excess moisture from the air. If your AC unit doesn't have a dehumidification setting, consider using a standalone dehumidifier in high-humidity areas of your home.
3. Seal air leaks: Air leaks can increase your home's humidity levels. Check for gaps or cracks in windows, doors, and walls, and seal them properly using weatherstripping or caulk. You can maintain a more comfortable indoor environment by preventing warm, humid air from entering your home.
4. Insulate and ventilate attic spaces: Attics can trap heat and humidity, which can seep into your living areas. Proper insulation and ventilation in your attic can help regulate temperature and humidity levels. Install insulation in the attic floor and ensure adequate airflow using vents or fans. Proper ventilation will prevent hot air from affecting the rest of your home and reduce the overall humidity levels.
5. Use moisture absorbers: Moisture absorbers, such as desiccants or silica gel packs, can reduce humidity in small spaces. You can place them in closets, cabinets, or other areas prone to excess moisture. These absorbers help to remove moisture from the air, preventing musty odors and minimizing the risk of mold growth.

Final thoughts

Maintaining humidity control during summer is crucial for a comfortable and healthy living environment. By implementing these expert tips, you can keep excessive moisture at bay and enjoy a comfortable, dry home. Remember, SERVPRO is always there to assist you in case of humidity and water damage. With their swift response, expertise, and comprehensive restoration services, SERVPRO ensures that your property is restored efficiently, minimizing disruptions and helping you get back to normal as soon as possible. Choose SERVPRO of South Cobb and experience the utmost professionalism and excellence in water damage restoration.

5 Effective Firework Safety Tips for a Happy Memorial Day

5/29/2023 (Permalink)

Keep safe, and let this Memorial Day be a time of joy!

Keep these firework safety tips this memorial day to safeguard your property and loved ones.

Memorial Day is a cherished holiday that brings together families and communities across the nation to honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. It is a time of remembrance and reflection, but it is also a time of celebration. 

Fireworks have become an integral part of the Memorial Day tradition, lighting up the night sky and filling our hearts with awe. However, it is crucial to prioritize safety during these festivities to prevent property damage and ensure the well-being of our loved ones. In the following blog post, we will review five firework safety tips to ensure your property is safe from fire damage. 

In the unfortunate event of fire damage, choosing a reliable and experienced company like SERVPRO becomes paramount to restoring your property efficiently and effectively. When faced with fire damage, you need a restoration service that understands the urgency and complexity of the situation. That's where SERVPRO excels. With years of experience and a reputation for excellence, SERVPRO is a trusted industry leader. Choosing SERVPRO ensures you receive top-notch professional assistance, comprehensive fire restoration services, and peace of mind during a challenging time.

5 tips from SERVPRO for a safe celebration with fireworks

Regarding fireworks, preparation is critical to a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day celebration. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when lighting fireworks:

1. Secure a suitable location: Choosing the right site for your fireworks display is vital. Ensure it is an open area, away from structures or flammable objects such as dry grass or trees. Additionally, be mindful of your neighbors and their properties, keeping a safe distance to avoid potential accidents.
2. Read and follow instructions: Fireworks can be complex and dangerous if mishandled. Always read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Each type of firework has specific guidelines regarding ignition, handling, and safety distances. Ignoring these instructions can lead to severe consequences, including property damage or personal injury.
3. Adult supervision: Fireworks should only be handled and ignited by responsible adults. Keep children at a safe distance from the fireworks, allowing them to enjoy the show while minimizing the risk of accidents. Adults should also avoid alcohol consumption while handling fireworks, as impaired judgment can lead to poor decision-making and hazardous situations.
4. Safety equipment: Protective gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, should be worn when handling fireworks. These precautions may seem excessive, but they are essential for shielding your eyes and hands from potential debris and sparks. 
5. Have a fire extinguisher handy: In case of a firework malfunction or an unintended fire, always have a fire extinguisher readily available. Make sure everyone presents knows its location and understands how to operate it. Quick and efficient action can help prevent a tiny spark from turning into a devastating fire that could cause extensive property damage.

SERVPRO's expertise in fire damage restoration 

Even with the utmost care and precautions, accidents can happen. If your property falls victim to fire damage during Memorial Day festivities, turn to the professionals at SERVPRO for swift and effective restoration services.

Upon arrival, SERVPRO's highly trained technicians will assess the extent of the fire damage to your property. Then, using advanced techniques and equipment, they will identify areas requiring immediate attention and develop a comprehensive restoration plan tailored to your needs.

SERVPRO's expertise extends beyond cleaning up fire debris. Their professionals are skilled in handling smoke and soot damage, which can be equally devastating to your property. Smoke and soot particles can permeate every nook and cranny, leaving behind an unpleasant odor and causing long-term damage if not adequately addressed. With their knowledge and specialized equipment, SERVPRO technicians can thoroughly clean and deodorize your property, eliminating the remnants of smoke and soot to restore a safe and healthy living environment.

Wrapping up 

As you prepare to celebrate Memorial Day with fireworks, prioritize safety to protect your property and loved ones. You can minimize the risk of accidents and fire damage by following the provided safety tips. However, in the unfortunate event that fire damage occurs, rely on SERVPRO professionals' expertise. With their swift response, specialized equipment, and comprehensive restoration services, they will help you restore your property, ensuring a smooth and efficient recovery process. Let this Memorial Day be a time of joyful remembrance while keeping safety at the forefront of your celebrations. Contact us today if you have any questions about our emergency fire restoration services!

Avoid a Drinking Fountain Leak: 5 Useful Tips

4/24/2023 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 to help combat the most severe commercial water damage.

Drinking fountains can be found throughout the premises of almost every Atlanta commercial property.

Water damage is one of the most common forms of property damage, and it can be especially damaging in commercial buildings. Drinking fountains, installed for the benefit of everyone on the property, can become a significant source of water damage in many commercial properties. But, with the proper care and maintenance, you can prevent a drinking fountain leak from causing costly water damage to your building.

This article will examine five essential tips for avoiding commercial water damage due to a drinking fountain leak. With these best practices in mind, you can keep your Atlanta business safe from expensive damages caused by a faulty drinking fountain. 

If your property suffers from water damage, contact the professionals at SERPVPRO of South Cobb for emergency water damage restoration.

What causes a drinking fountain leak?

A malfunctioning or broken seal is the most common cause of a drinking fountain leak. 

A seal is the rubber gasket between the faucet head and body. Over time, this seal can wear out and no longer provide an effective barrier against water penetration. In addition to the rubber gasket seal, other possible causes of a drinking fountain leak include a buildup of dirt and debris, corroded pipes, or a damaged faucet.

SERVPRO's tips for avoiding a drinking fountain leak

The following are five tips from the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb for avoiding a drinking fountain leak and the resulting commercial water damage:

1. Regularly clean your drinking fountains: Clean your drinking fountains thoroughly regularly. Deep cleaning your drinking fountains will help remove any dirt, debris, or minerals that could build up and cause a drinking fountain leak.
2. Inspect the seals: Check the seals on your drinking fountains regularly to ensure they are in good condition. If the seal appears worn, brittle, or cracked, replace it immediately.
3. Replace old drinking fountains: Even if a drinking fountain isn't leaking, it may be time to replace it if it's been used for a long time. Old drinking fountains are more likely to experience leaks due to age and wear and tear on the seals. 
4. Protect your drinking fountains: Minimize debris buildup around your drinking fountains by installing covers or screens. Covers will reduce any dirt, leaves, or other debris that could cause a leak.
5. Regularly test for leaks: Schedule regular tests to check for leaks in your drinking fountains. Testing will help you identify potential problems before they cause costly commercial water damage.

By implementing these tips, you can avoid costly commercial water damage from a drinking fountain leak in your Atlanta property.

Steps to take when affected by a drinking fountain leak

Act immediately to prevent further damage when your property is affected by a drinking fountain leak. Here are the steps you should take if your property is affected by a drinking fountain leak:

1. Immediately turn off the water supply to the drinking fountain when you become aware of a leak. Immediately turning off a leaking drinking fountain will help to minimize the extent of the damage caused.
2. Contact a professional water damage restoration company immediately. The experienced professionals at SERPVPRO of South Cobb can help to restore your property and prevent further damages quickly.
3. Contact your property insurance provider to start an insurance claim.

By following these steps when affected by a drinking fountain leak, you can minimize the extent of the damage and get back to business as quickly as possible.

Wrapping up

Commercial water damage is a property owner’s worst nightmare. The best way to avoid commercial water damage caused by a drinking fountain leak is to take preventative measures throughout the year. Regularly cleaning your drinking fountains, inspecting seals, replacing old drinking fountains, protecting your drinking fountains from debris, and periodically testing for leaks can all help to prevent costly damages.

If your property has experienced water damage, contact the experts at SERPVPRO of South Cobb for emergency water damage restoration. By acting quickly, you can minimize the extent of the damage and get back to business as soon as possible.

Antimicrobial: The #1 Secret Weapon of Effective Restoration

3/27/2023 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO only apply the highest quality antimicrobial solutions!

In every SERVPRO truck, you will find an antimicrobial solution ready to combat unwanted microbes!

When you look at a SERVPRO insurance repair estimate, you will most likely see a line item mentioning an antimicrobial solution's application. This service is included because antimicrobial solutions are essential to the professional cleaning and restoration services offered by SERVPRO of South Cobb. 

Antimicrobial products have been proven to be highly effective at killing germs, bacteria, and other pathogens that may be present on surfaces after water and mold damage disasters in residential and commercial properties.

An antimicrobial solution has also proven to keep people safe while preventing further damage from occurring due to microbial growth. This article will explore the benefits of using antimicrobials for cleanup and restoration services and how they can help kill off unwanted microbes!

The benefits of antimicrobial solutions in the cleaning and restoration industry

The use of antimicrobial products in the cleaning and restoration industry is widespread due to their effectiveness in killing off germs, bacteria, and other pathogens. In addition, antimicrobial solutions are proven to be highly efficient at removing mold and mildew from surfaces and preventing further damage from occurring due to microbial growth.

Antimicrobials are typically applied in areas affected by water or mold damage, as these types of damage are most vulnerable to microbial growth. An antimicrobial solution can help prevent further contamination and reduce the risk of spreading disease-causing germs. Antimicrobials are also highly effective at killing unwanted microbes that may remain present after a water or mold disaster.

In addition to eliminating mold, bacteria, and other pathogens, antimicrobials can provide an extra layer of protection against future microbial growth. Antimicrobial solutions are specially formulated to resist and reject any foreign microbe. With that extra layer of protection, your surfaces will remain clean, safe, and free from potential health hazards for extended periods.

How do antimicrobials kill microbes?

Antimicrobials break down the cell walls of microbes, preventing them from reproducing and leading to their eventual death. We use antimicrobial solutions on various surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, and hardwood floors.

For example, we can apply an antimicrobial solution to the affected area during a mold damage restoration job. The antimicrobial will break down the cell walls of any potential mold spores, reducing their ability to reproduce and spread further.

Additionally, if you are dealing with a water damage incident, you may use an antimicrobial solution to reduce the risk of contamination from bacteria and other pathogens commonly in water. An antimicrobial solution can help keep your property safe and free from the potential health hazards associated with microbial growth.

Antimicrobials can kill off many unwanted microbes in just one application when applied correctly! As a result, antimicrobials are an excellent choice for those looking to keep their homes and businesses safe from microbial growth.

What antimicrobial solution do the professionals at SERVPRO use?

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb use Benefect, a high-performance antimicrobial solution that protects against germs, bacteria, and other pathogens. Benefect is designed to be used on both hard and soft surfaces and has proven to be an effective tool in the fight against microbial growth.

Many other antimicrobial solutions are on the market, but Benefect is a favorite among SERVPRO professionals due to its effectiveness and long-lasting protection.

Wrapping up

We hope you enjoyed learning about antimicrobial products and why SERVPRO professionals use them in cleaning and restoration services. Antimicrobial solutions have been proven to be highly effective at killing germs, bacteria, and other pathogens that may be present on surfaces. They can also help reduce the spread of harmful bacteria, which helps protect those nearby.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb take pride in providing our customers with the highest quality cleaning and restoration services. Antimicrobial solutions are essential to these services and can help ensure your home or business is free from unwanted microbial growth!

If you have any questions about antimicrobial solutions, please don't hesitate to contact us! We look forward to hearing from you.

Sump Pump Leak: Identifying the 5 Signs of a Serious Problem

2/27/2023 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 to help mitigate your sump pump leak!

A sump pump leak can be a significant problem for homeowners, leading to costly repairs if not identified and addressed quickly.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb want to ensure that you combat water damage at all times of the year. Therefore, property owners must recognize signs of sump pump leakage to take proactive steps to identify sump pump problems before they worsen. 

In this article, we will discuss five signs that indicate a sump pump leak at your property. These signs include soggy spots in the yard, water seeping into foundation walls, musty odors coming from inside the home, a sump pump constantly running or not working correctly, flooding in the basement or crawlspace, as well as water stains on walls and floors. So without further ado, let's dive into everything you need about sump pump leaks!

What is a sump pump, and why do they leak?

Sump pumps are designed to remove water collected in a sump basin, typically found in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace. The sump pump then pumps the water out of the sump basin and away from the home's foundation through a discharge pipe. Sump pumps are essential for keeping basements and crawlspaces dry and can prevent flooding.

However, sump pumps can fail for various reasons, including age, improper installation, power outages, clogs or debris in the sump basin, and even freezing temperatures. These issues can lead to sump pump leakage that can cause costly damage to your home.

Five signs that indicate a sump pump leak

1. Soggy spots in the yard: if you notice wet spots on your lawn that weren't there before, it could be a sign of sump pump leakage. You will want to pay attention to saturated areas near the sump basin. 
2. Water seeping into foundation walls: water may seep into your home's foundation walls if the sump pump leaks. Water in the foundation walls can cause various problems, including structural damage, foundation settlement, and mold growth.
3. Musty odors: if a sump pump leakage has occurred, a musty smell will likely come from inside your home. A musty odor usually indicates mold and mildew growth due to soggy conditions. 
4. Sump pump running constantly: if your sump pump is continuously running or not working correctly, this may mean sump pump leakage. It could also signify that the sump pump is clogged with debris. 
5. Flooding in the basement or crawl space - If a sump pump leakage has occurred, there will likely be some flooding in the basement or crawl space. Flooding can cause costly problems, including mold growth, wet floors and walls, and even structural damage.

How the professionals at SERVPRO can help

When your property suffers from sump pump leakage, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb can help. We have the knowledge and experience to identify sump pump problems and take proactive steps to repair them before they become costly repairs. We can help even if there is severe water damage! We have the tools and equipment to mitigate sump pump leakage and other water damage. 

We understand how stressful sump pump issues can be, and we're here to help every step of the way. When we arrive at a sump pump leak, we will: 

• Inspect the sump pump and sump basin to assess the situation and identify any sump pump problems. 
• Repair the sump pump, sump basin, or discharge pipe if necessary. 
• Extract any standing water from your basement or crawl space. 
• Remove wet materials, including carpets and drywall. 
• Use specialized equipment to dry the area and prevent mold growth. 
• Replace any damaged materials.

Wrapping up

Today we reviewed sump pump leaks and the signs indicating a pump leak at your property. Signs of sump pump leakage include soggy spots in the yard, water seeping into foundation walls, musty odors coming from inside the home, sump pumps constantly running or not working correctly, flooding in the basement or crawl space, and water stains on walls or floors. Homeowners must take proactive steps to identify sump pump problems before they become costly. 

When sump pump leakage occurs, the SERVPRO of South Cobb professionals can help, even if there is severe water damage. We have the tools and equipment to mitigate sump pump leakage and other water damage. So if you are experiencing sump pump problems, don't hesitate to contact us! We're here to help you every step of the way.

After Disastrous Candle Fires: Your #1 Recovery Guide

1/30/2023 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are here to help you combat any amount of fire damage caused by candles.

Candle fires are devastating and potentially dangerous events that can cause extensive damage.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb understand the complexities of fire damage and are equipped to restore your home or business to its preloss condition. However, most people don't realize that candle fires produce fumes and smoke beyond the visible destruction, leading to severe risks and significant property losses. 

While candle fires are not every day, they often occur enough that everyone needs to be aware of the dangers they present and the ways to prevent them. In the following blog post, we will discuss candle fires, the potential damage they can cause, and how SERVPRO of South Cobb can help you recover from a candle fire disaster. Candle fires can cause a wide variety of damage, from structural damage and loss of possessions to smoke and soot damage. 

The longer the candle fire burns unchecked, the more extensive the destruction will be. SERVPRO of South Cobb has the expertise and tools to assess the damage caused by candle fires and begin the restoration process.

Types of damage candle fires can cause

Candle fires can cause a wide range of damage to structures, furniture, and personal possessions. Structural damage can include burned walls, floors, ceilings, and roofs. Furniture and personal possessions can be damaged by the fire and by the resulting smoke, soot, water, or fire-extinguishing chemicals. In addition, candle fires can create toxic fumes like carbon monoxide, posing potential risks.

How to prevent candle fires in your home or business

Although candle fire damage is not always preventable, there are candle fire safety tips and specific steps you can take to reduce the risk of candle fires occurring in your home or business.

• Always use candle holders that are appropriate for the candle size and type.
• Keep candles away from flammable objects such as curtains, bedding, clothing, furniture, and paper products.
• Constantly monitor candle flames and do not leave them unattended.
• Do not burn candles near open windows or air vents, as drafts can cause the candle to flare up.
• Never move a burning candle – always blow it out before relocating it!
• Keep combustible materials away from candle flames.
• Ensure candle wicks are trimmed and not burning too close to the candle holder.
• Consider using battery-powered flameless candles, which have become increasingly popular and realistic in recent years.

What to do if a candle fire occurs in your home or business?

When a candle fire occurs in your home or business, the most important thing is to get everyone out safely and call 911. Once the fire department has extinguished the fire, contact a fire damage restoration company to assess and restore any damage caused by the candle fire. The team of professionals should be available 24/7 and respond quickly to help you recover and restore your property.

SERVPRO's candle fire restoration process

We know that candle fires can be a devastating experience. That's why SERVPRO of South Cobb is here to help. Our process for helping your property recover from fire damage includes the following:

• Assessment and documentation of candle fire damage
• Removal of furniture, fixtures, and other items to prevent further damage
• Cleaning and deodorizing surfaces affected by candle fires
• Structural repairs as needed

We hope you've found this article helpful in understanding candle fire damage and how SERVPRO of South Cobb can help restore your home or business after a candle fire disaster. Our team of professionals will work quickly to assess the damage and begin the restoration process. We have extensive cleaning products and tools to remove soot, smoke, and other debris. 

Contact us today for more information on candle fire restoration services.

Backup Generator: The #1 Investment To Enhance Your Winter

12/26/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a backup generator ready to help bring power back to your property!

A backup generator can save homeowners from the harsh realities of winter weather.

The residents of Georgia are well aware that the winter season brings challenges. Ice storms and heavy snowfall can knock out power for days, leaving families in the cold and dark. Fortunately, backup generators can provide backup power during a power outage and protect homeowners from frigid temperatures.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb want you to keep your home and family safe during an outage, ensuring that the lights stay on and electronics don’t fail when temperatures drop. Unfortunately, power outages are a fact of life during winter storms, but with a backup generator, you can prepare for whatever Old Man Winter throws your way.

In the following blog post, we will discuss the top five benefits of backup generators and why they are a must-have investment for this winter season.

What is a backup generator?

A backup generator is a secondary power source used during a power outage. It typically runs on either natural gas, propane, or diesel. Backup generators are designed to turn on automatically when a power outage occurs, providing your home with an uninterrupted stream of electricity so that you don’t have to worry about being left in the dark.

What are the benefits of a backup generator?

1. Keeps your home warm: In a power outage, backup generators can keep your home heated and provide enough power to keep your furnace running. You and your family will be protected from freezing temperatures during the winter months.
2. Helps you save money: Backup generators turn on independently when a power outage occurs, reducing your energy costs by not relying on other costly sources of electricity.
3. Protects appliances and electronics: A backup generator can provide enough power to keep your refrigerator running, ensuring food doesn’t spoil during an outage. It can also protect your other electronics, such as computers and TVs.
4. Keeps your lights on: Backup generators provide enough power to keep your lights on during an outage, so you don’t have to go without light while waiting for the power to come back on.
5. Increases home value: Installing a backup generator can increase the value of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

Choosing the right backup generator for your home

Buying a backup generator is an investment that can pay off in the long run. Because backup generators are becoming increasingly popular, and their sales are expected to increase this year, now is the time to buy one and be prepared for whatever winter throws your way. With all of the different makes in models, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the best backup generator for your home.

Here’s what to look for when choosing a backup generator:

1. Size: Size matters, and the size of the backup generator you need depends on the power requirements of your home. Measure how much power your home requires before purchasing a backup generator by investigating your energy bill.
2. Fuel type: Backup generators come in three different fuel types – natural gas, propane, or diesel. Consider which type would be most convenient for you.
3. Cost: the cost of backup generators can vary depending on the size and features you need. Make sure to do your research and compare prices before making a purchase.

Final thoughts

Today, we discussed the importance of backup generators and why they are a must-have for this winter season. Storms and outages can occur unexpectedly, but with a backup generator, you can ensure that your home is fully protected from power outages.

Make sure to research and choose the right backup generator for your home’s needs; it could save you money in the long run. But don’t wait until the last minute— get your backup generator today! 

SERVPRO of South Cobb can help you choose the right backup generator for your home, ensuring that your family is warm, safe, and well-prepared for this winter season. Contact us today for any questions on preparing your home for the winter weather.

Laundromat Fire: Our Expert 5-Step Process For Recovery

11/28/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for fire restoration services!

A laundromat fire can leave your business with extensive damage, but we can help!

Laundromat owners know there’s an inherent risk in owning a business with many heat-producing machines in one place. Although, laundromat fires are not as common as other commercial fires, they can cause significant damage to your building and its contents. 

While a laundromat fire can be devastating, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have put together a 5-step process to help alleviate some of the stress you might endure during a laundromat fire disaster. As a trustworthy fire damage restoration company in the greater Atlanta area, we understand how to get your laundromat back up and running in the fastest way possible. 

What can cause a laundromat fire?

Laundromat fires can be caused by various things, including faulty wiring, malfunctioning machines, or even arson. However, the most common cause of laundromat fires is lint buildup in the dryer’s exhaust ducts. Like residential dryer fires, lint can ignite, easily causing fire. In addition, it can spread quickly throughout the building through your property’s ductwork.

Our five laundromat fire recovery steps

Now that you know the causes of laundromat fires let's look at our five-step process for recovery. Before we go through these steps, we assume you have contacted your insurance carrier and filed a claim. 

Step 1) Assess the damage

The first step is to assess the damage and develop a plan of action. Then, our team of certified professionals will come in and do a thorough inspection of your laundromat to determine the extent of the damage and develop a recovery plan. The recovery plan will be based on the results of our initial assessment. 

Step 2) Boarding up and securing the building

The next step is to board up and secure the building. Securing the property is essential for two reasons: first, it will help prevent further damage to your laundromat; second, it will help keep people and critters from entering the building. 

Step 3) Cleaning and restoring all salvageable items and surface

Once the building is secure, we will start the process of cleaning and restoring all salvageable items and surfaces. We use state-of-the-art fire restoration equipment and techniques to restore your laundromat to its original condition. Cleaning and restoring all salvageable items and surfaces includes shampooing carpets, cleaning walls, and sanitizing any surfaces affected by smoke or soot.

Step 4) Deodorization

The next step is deodorization. Even if an item or surface looks clean, it can still hold odors from the fire. Our certified professionals will use industrial-strength deodorizers to eliminate all odors from the laundromat. 

Step 5) Reconstruction

The final step is reconstruction. Reconstruction includes anything from minor repairs to major renovations. Our team of certified professionals has the experience and knowledge to rebuild your laundromat back to its original condition. 

What can you do to prevent a laundromat fire?

The best way to prevent a laundromat fire is to ensure that your machines are properly maintained and that the exhaust ducts are cleaned regularly. You should also have a working fire suppression system and ensure your employees are trained in its use.

Wrapping up

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb hope you enjoyed learning about laundromat fires and our five-step process for recovery. Of course, we also hope that you never have to experience a laundromat fire. However, if you do, we want you to know that we are here for you.

We understand that a laundromat fire can be a very stressful and overwhelming experience. But with SERVPRO of South Cobb by your side, you can rest assured that your business is in good hands. We have the experience, knowledge, and resources to get your laundromat running again and are always available for questions so that you can stay updated throughout the entire process. 

Feel free to contact us today regarding any questions or to get started on your laundromat fire recovery. We are always here to help!

Thermal Fogging: The #1 Best Way to Neutralize Smoke Odors

10/24/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers quality and effective thermal fogging services!

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb use thermal fogging to remove smoke odors from homes and businesses after a fire. 

After a fire breaks out in a home or business, there are often lingering smoke odors that can be tough to remove. That's where thermal fogging comes in. 

Thermal fogging is a process that uses thermal energy to produce a fog or mist. The fog or mist penetrates and treats an area with a thermal disinfectant, chemicals that kill microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores. The professionals at SERVPRO use state-of-the-art disinfectants to ensure that unwanted organisms are removed and do not come back. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb uses thermal foggers to create a thermal fog that will neutralize the smoke odors in your home or business. We are dedicated to helping our customers through the entire fire restoration process, from start to finish. 

The following blog post will go over when you should use thermal fog, the benefits of thermal fogging, and how SERVPRO of South Cobb uses thermal foggers to remove smoke odors from your home or business. Then, keep reading to find out why SERVPRO is many property owners' go-to company for fire restoration! 

When to use thermal fogging?

Thermal fogging is usually used in one of two scenarios: 

• When traditional cleaning methods aren't enough to remove the smoke odor
• When the smoke odor is widespread and permeates throughout the entire property

If you've tried cleaning the affected areas with traditional methods, such as airing out the property or using air fresheners, and the smoke odor is still present, thermal fogging may be your best option. 

Thermal fogging offers many benefits, including: 

• Effective at removing tough smoke odors
• Fast and convenient
• Safe to use in occupied spaces
• Leaves your home or business smelling fresh and clean

How does thermal fogging work?

Thermal fogging is a process that uses thermal energy to produce a fog or mist. The fog or mist penetrates and treats an area with a thermal disinfectant. Thermal disinfectants are chemicals that kill microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores.

SERVPRO of South Cobb uses thermal foggers to create a thermal fog that will neutralize the smoke odors in your home or business. The thermal fogging process works by heating the thermal disinfectant until it becomes a vapor. This vapor is then released into the area needing treatment, where it will penetrate and kill any microorganisms.

Our thermal fogging process

When a customer contacts us for help with smoke odors, our first step is to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. Once we've decided that thermal fogging is the best option, we will begin the process by setting up our equipment. 

We will then heat the thermal disinfectant until it becomes a vapor. Afterward, we release this vapor into the area needing treatment, where it will penetrate and kill any microorganisms. The thermal fogging process is effective against many microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. 

After the thermal fogging process, we will conduct a final assessment to ensure that the smoke odors have been completely neutralized. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb fire restoration services

If you're dealing with smoke odors after a fire, SERVPRO of South Cobb can help. We are dedicated to helping our customers through the entire fire restoration process, from start to finish. Our fire restoration services include:

• Assessing the damage
• Cleaning and repairing damaged items
• Pack-out and storage services
• Smoke and odor removal
• Reconstruction

We understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with the aftermath of a fire. Our goal is to make the fire restoration process as stress-free as possible for our customers. Our professionals have undergone extensive training and are certified by the IICRC, and we have a wide range of state-of-the-art equipment to provide our customers with the best possible service. 

Contact us today for more information about our thermal fogging services.

Water Damaged Ceiling: 4 Actionable Steps To Prevent Further Damage

9/28/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 to help combat water damage.

After discovering a water damaged ceiling in your home, it's essential to take action immediately to prevent further damage like mold growth.

No one ever said that being a homeowner was easy. In fact, it can be downright challenging at times. One of the most common problems homeowners face is water damage. Whether it's a leaky roof, a flooded basement, or water seeping in through windows and doors, water can cause severe damage to your home if not addressed promptly.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have mitigated and restored water damaged ceilings for many homeowners in the area. Therefore, we know how important it is to take action quickly to prevent further damage like mold growth.

In this article, we'll look at four actionable steps you can take to prevent further water damage in your home after discovering a water damaged ceiling. So, if you're dealing with water damage, read on for some helpful tips.

Signs of a water damaged ceiling

Water damaged ceilings can exhibit various signs, depending on the extent and severity of the damage. Some common signs of water damage to a ceiling include:

• Stains or watermarks on the ceiling
• Peeling or bubbling paint
• A sagging or drooping ceiling
• Wet spots on the ceiling
• Mold or mildew growth

Steps to take after discovering a water damaged ceiling

If you've recently discovered water damage to your ceiling, it's essential to take action immediately to prevent further damage. Here are four steps you can take:

1. Assess the damage and determine the source of the leak.
2. Dry out the area and repair the damage.
3. Monitor the area for any further signs of water damage or mold growth.
4. Take steps to prevent future water damage.

Assessing the damage

The first step in dealing with a water damaged ceiling is assessing it; you want to determine its extensiveness and what caused it. Once you know the source of the leak, you can start taking steps to address it and prevent further water damage from occurring.

Drying out the area and repairing the damage

Once you've assessed the damage, it's time to start drying out the area and repairing the damage. Common repairs include:

• Repairing water-logged ceilings.
• Replacing water-damaged insulation.
• Fixing broken pipes
• Fixing leaks in roofs or walls.

It is best to call in a professional water restoration company to help get the job done right the first time.

Monitoring for water damage and mold growth

Once you've addressed the water damaged ceiling, monitoring the area for any signs of further water damage or mold growth is essential. Therefore, you will want to check for wet spots on the ceiling, watermarks or stains, peeling or bubbling paint, or sagging or drooping ceilings. Let your restoration contractor know if you notice any signs of further damage.

Preventing future water damage

In addition to monitoring for water damage and mold growth, it's essential to take steps to prevent future water damage in your home. Preventing future water damages may include:

• Installing gutter guards.
• Trimming trees and branches around your property
• Installing a sump pump if you have a basement.

Let SERVPRO of South Cobb repair your water damaged ceiling.

As we mentioned earlier, finding a reliable restoration contractor who can quickly and accurately repair your water damaged ceiling is essential. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb are experienced in water damage restoration and can help get your ceiling back to its original condition. In addition, our professionals have undergone IICRC water restoration training and have the necessary equipment to properly dry out your water damaged ceiling and repair any damage.

When you choose to hire us, we will:

• Assess the water damage and create a mitigation and restoration plan.
• Use industrial-strength fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the area.
• Repair or replace any water damaged ceilings, insulation, or other water-logged materials.
• Monitor the area for mold growth.
• Take steps to prevent future water damage in your home.

Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or would like to schedule a time for us to come out and assess your water damaged ceiling. We are available 24/7 and will be there when you need us most.

Winter Storm Damage: 5 Tips to Prepare For a Winter Storm

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for storm restoration services!

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb can help you recover your property after winter storm damages occur. 

As the fall season nears and winter quickly approaches, many homeowners begin preparing their homes for the cold weather. However, don't feel left out if you are unsure how to prepare your home for the winter. 

Every winter, many homeowners in Atlanta deal with winter storm damage, and there are always a few things they could have done to prevent the winter storm damage or minimize the amount of damage that the winter storm caused.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have put together this post today because we want to help you prepare your home for winter weather. We understand that winter storms can cause much damage, and we want to help keep your property safe. This blog post will discuss five ways to prepare for winter storm damage. So, without further ado, let's get started! 

What causes winter storm damage?

Winter storm damage can occur by several things, such as high winds, snow, ice, and sleet. All of these weather conditions can cause severe damage to your home or property.

The wind is often one of the biggest culprits of winter storm damage. High wind speeds can easily knock down trees or power lines and cause a lot of damage to your roof. Snow and ice can also cause much damage, especially if a lot is sitting on the roof. The weight of the snow or ice can cause roofs to collapse, and the ice can block your drain lines.

Five tips to prepare for winter storm damage

Preparing your property is the best way to avoid winter storm damage. Here are five tips to help you prepare for winter storm damage:

Tip 1. Make sure your roof is in good condition and repaired adequately if necessary. Before winter arrives, have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof and make any necessary repairs.

Tip 2. Trim trees around your home. Trimming trees will help to prevent branches from falling on your house or property during a winter storm.

Tip 3. Clear snow and ice off your roof regularly. The weight of the snow and ice can cause damage to your roof, so it is essential to clear it off regularly.

Tip 4. Install gutters and downspouts. Gutters and downspouts will help to prevent water damage to your home by directing the water away from your house.

Tip 5. Seal any cracks or gaps in your home. Sealing cracks will help to prevent cold air from coming into your home, and it will also help to prevent water damage.

What to do after your property is damaged during a winter storm?

Even the most prepared property owners can still experience winter storm damage. If your home or property has been damaged during a winter storm, the first thing you should do is contact a professional restoration company and your insurance company. After you contact these two entities, you should: 

• Take pictures of the damage for insurance purposes
• Ensure you are getting an accurate insurance estimate
• Remove any debris left behind
• Start drying out any wet areas to prevent mold growth

By following these steps, you can help to ensure that your winter storm damage is minimized and that your home or property is repaired as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of South Cobb can help you recover from winter storm damage!

We hope you enjoyed learning about the tips we recommend to help prepare for winter storm damage and now know what to do if winter storm damage does occur. If your home or property has been damaged during a winter storm, don't hesitate to contact the experts at SERVPRO of South Cobb. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb has handled hundreds of winter storm damage cases and can ensure you get the fairest and most accurate insurance estimate possible. Our expert technicians are also trained in the latest water damage mitigation techniques and can help you prevent further damage to your home.

We are available 24/7/365, so contact us when winter storm damage affects your home or property!

Restoration Estimate 101: Find The Best Help After Disaster!

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 to perform a restoration estimate!

Getting an accurate restoration estimate helps when you deal with your insurance company.

When disaster strikes, it's essential to have a plan to get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible. That's where restoration comes in—returning a structure to its pre-disaster condition.

But before you can even begin to think about restoration, you need to have a firm understanding of the cost. In this article, we'll discuss how to get a restoration estimate so that you can be prepared in the event of an emergency.

The process of getting a restoration estimate

The first step in getting an estimate for restoration work is to contact a professional restoration company. Many companies offer free estimates, so be sure to ask around before making your final decision. Once you've found a company that you feel comfortable with, the next step is to schedule an appointment for them to come out and take a look at the damage.

During the initial consultation, the restoration company will assess the extent of the damage and estimate the cost of repairs using specialized restoration estimate software. Be honest with the company about the scope of the damage so they can give you an accurate estimate.

Restoration estimates and insurance

Once you have an estimate, you can begin to work with your insurance company to see if they will cover any of the cost. If you're not sure whether or not your insurance will cover the restoration cost, you can always ask the company for a list of preferred vendors. These companies typically work with insurance companies and can help you get the best possible rate. Be sure to get several quotes before making your final decision to be sure you're getting the best deal.

SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many local and national insurance companies. So you can rest assured that you're in good hands when choosing SERVPRO of South Cobb for your restoration estimate and work. We'll make your property "Like it never even happened" after disaster strikes!

Talking with the professional providing your restoration estimate

When it comes time to start the restoration process, it's crucial to understand what you want to accomplish. Be sure to discuss this with the company so that they can give you an accurate estimate of the time and cost involved. In most cases, it's best to start with a small area and work your way up from there.

Once you've selected a company and scheduled an appointment, ask about their payment options. Find out what the company's policy is on payments so that you can be ready.

What to expect after your restoration estimate

When it's time to start the restoration process, be patient and realistic about the results. It may take longer than initially expected, but it will be worth it when you see the final results. Be sure to ask the company for updates along the way so that you can track their progress.

If you have any questions about the restoration process, ask the company for more information. They should be able to answer any questions you have to be as informed as possible.

Call SERVPRO of South Cobb for your restoration estimate!

If you follow these tips, you should have no problem getting an accurate estimate for restoration work. Be sure to contact a professional company as soon as possible so that you can get started on the road to recovery.

Getting a restoration estimate is an essential first step in restoration. However, you can't just contact anyone for your restoration estimate and expect to get a good result. It's best to find someone who has experience doing restoration work; these professionals understand what it will take to restore your property to normal after disaster strikes.

Contact SERVPRO of South Cobb today for your accurate restoration estimate and effective restoration services! We'll make your property "Like it never even happened."

Summer Fire Damage: The 3 Main Fire Risks

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for fire restoration services!

SERVPRO of South Cobb is here to help you avoid summer fire damage to your home.

Summertime always brings a sense of relaxation and fun. But sometimes, this fun can be ruined by fire damage that can occur as a result of careless behavior. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have seen it all when it comes to summer fire damage, and we're here to help you avoid becoming a statistic. Here are the three risks that can lead to fire damage during the summer months:

1. Fire pits and patio heaters
2. Fireworks
3. Grilling

The following blog post will go over each of these summer fire risks in more detail and what you can do to avoid them.

What is summer fire damage?

Summer fire damage is any fire that occurs during the summer months. Summer fire damage can cause anywhere from minor damage to a lot of damage to your home and belongings. But, no matter the size of summer fire damage your property has sustained, SERVPRO of South Cobb can help.

How to avoid summer fire damage?

There are several ways you can avoid summer fire damage. The most important thing is to be aware of the risks and take precautions to prevent them. As we mentioned earlier, there are three primary risks of fire damage during the summer months:

1. Fire pits and patio heaters
2. Fireworks
3. Grilling

Let's take a closer look at each of these summer fire risks.

Fire pits and patio heaters

Fire pits and patio heaters are an everyday summertime staple. They provide warmth and ambiance for outdoor gatherings. However, if not used properly, they can be a fire hazard. To avoid summer fire damage from fire pits and patio heaters:

• Ensure the area around the fire pit or patio heater is clear of flammable materials.
• Keep the fire pit or patio heater at least 10 feet away from buildings or structures.
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Make sure the fire is fully extinguished before leaving the area.

Fireworks

Fireworks are a summertime tradition for many people. However, they can also be very dangerous. Each year, thousands of people have property damage caused by fireworks. To avoid summer fire damage from fireworks:

• Follow the fireworks safety tips
• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Older children should only use fireworks under close adult supervision.
• Always have a bucket of water or a hose handy in case of an emergency.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Only use fireworks outdoors.
• Never try to relight or pick up fireworks that have not fully functioned.

Grilling

Grilling is a summertime favorite for many people. It's a great way to enjoy the summer weather and make delicious food. However, grilling can also be very dangerous. Each year, there are thousands of fires caused by grilling. To avoid summer fire damage from grilling:

• Only use grills outdoors.
• Make sure the grill is on a level surface to prevent tipping.
• Keep the grill away from flammable materials such as trees, bushes, or deck railings.
• Never leave the grill unattended while it's in use.
• Always make sure the grill is fully extinguished before leaving the area.

SERVPRO of South Cobb: summer fire damage experts

We hope you found this blog post helpful. Remember, the best way to avoid summer fire damage is to be aware of the risks and take precautions to prevent them. If you experience summer fire damage, the experts SERVPRO of South Cobb are here to help. When you choose to work with us for fire restoration services, we guarantee that we will:

• Work quickly and efficiently to minimize the damage.
• Communicate with you throughout the entire process.
• Work with your insurance company to make sure all claims are filed correctly.

For more information on our fire damage restoration services, contact a professional at SERVPRO of South Cobb today!

Temporary Repairs: The 2 Main Types SERVPRO Performs

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for temporary repairs!

Temporary repairs will ensure your property is secured until we can make permanent repairs.

When disaster strikes, it's essential to have a plan, and part of the plan should include temporary repairs. SERVPRO of South Cobb offers temporary repairs to help minimize the damage until the property can be fully restored. We have helped many customers with temporary repairs due to water, fire, and storm damage in the past year. All of the temporary we performed were done promptly and professionally, so the customers could rest assured that their property was in good hands. 

Our two main temporary repairs include: 

1. Tarping services: To prevent any further water or debris from entering the property 
2. Board up services: To prevent any more damage from occurring 

In the following article, we will discuss these two types of temporary repairs in further detail and explain how our SERVPRO of South Cobb professionals can provide assistance for water, fire, and storm damage victims. We want your property to be as secure and as safe as possible until permanent repairs can be made. So when disaster strikes, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of South Cobb for all your temporary repair needs.

What are temporary repairs? 

Temporary repairs are a type of repair made to secure a property until permanent repairs can be made. They are typically used when a property has water, fire, or storm damage. Temporary repairs are essential because they help to minimize the damage until the property can be fully restored. 

The materials used for temporary repairs should be of high quality and should be able to withstand the elements. The repairs should also be made promptly so that the property is not left unsecured for an extended period. 

The two types of temporary repairs SERVPRO of South Cobb offers

SERVPRO of South Cobb offers two types of temporary repairs: 

1. Tarping 
2. Board-up services. 

Tarps are typically used in the case of water and storm damage. They are placed over the affected area to prevent further water from entering and damaging the property. For example, you will commonly find roof tarping covering a hole in the roof until permanent roof repairs can be made. 

Board-up services are typically performed in the case of vandalism and fire damage. Board-up services involve putting up boards or plywood over windows and doors to prevent further damage. 

Four scenarios for temporary repairs 

There are many scenarios in which temporary repairs may be necessary. Here are four common scenarios: 

1. A severe storm damages the roof 
2. A fire breaks out, and damage is done to the windows and doors 
3. Vandalism occurs, and the property is left with broken windows 
4. A car crashes into the side of the building, causing damage to the wall. 

No matter the scenario, temporary repairs will help secure your property until permanent repairs can be made.

Why choose the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb for temporary repairs

As you can see, temporary repairs are a vital part of the restoration process. At SERVPRO of South Cobb, we have the experience and expertise to help with all your temporary repair needs. We will work quickly and efficiently to ensure your property is secure and ready for permanent repairs. 

When you work with temporary repair professionals from SERVPRO of South Cobb, you can expect the following: 

• IICRC certified professionals 
• A thorough assessment of the damage 
• A plan of action for the temporary repairs 
• The completion of the temporary repairs promptly 
• A follow-up to ensure that the temporary repairs are holding up and that no further damage has occurred. 

Please don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of South Cobb for all your temporary repair needs. We're always here to help!

High Water Table: The 5 Ways Your Property Can Be Affected

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for emergency water damage services!

High water tables are a common problem for property owners in Georgia.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have recently received numerous water damage calls caused by high water tables. Therefore, we put this blog post together to help customers facing similar problems with their properties.

Knowing how they affect your property is essential if you live in an area prone to high water tables. This blog post will discuss five ways a high water table can cause water damage. Keep reading for more information.

What is a water table?

A water table is an upper level to which water will naturally rise in an unconfined aquifer. The water table is important because it's the source of groundwater. When the water table is high, there's a lot of water in the ground leading to problems for property owners.

Signs of a high water table

If you're experiencing water damage and aren't sure if it's related to a high water table, there are a few ways to determine if that's the case. Here are three methods:

1. Look at your property's elevation map: If you have an elevation map, you can use it to see if it is in an area prone to high water tables. If you don't have an elevation map, you can find one online or at your local zoning office.
2. Check for water in your basement or crawl space: If you have a basement or crawl space, water damage will be more likely to occur if the water table is high. Water can enter through cracks in the foundation or walls, causing severe damage.
3. Look for saturated areas on your property: If there are any low-lying areas on your property that are constantly wet or have standing water, it could be a sign of a high water table.

The five ways high water tables can cause damage

Now that we've gone over what a water table is and how to tell if you have a high one, let's discuss the five ways high water tables can damage a property.

1) Flooding

Flooding is the most obvious way high water tables can cause damage. If the water table is high, there's a greater chance that your property will experience flooding. Flooding can damage your home's foundation, ruin personal belongings, and lead to mold growth.

2) Basement leaks

High water tables can also cause basement leaks. If the water table is high, water can seep through cracks in the foundation and walls, causing leaks. These leaks can damage the structure of your home and lead to mold growth.

3) Soil erosion

When the water table is high, it can cause soil erosion. Soil erosion is when the water washes away the soil around your property, causing the foundation to become unstable, leading to severe damage to your home.

4) Septic tank problems

High water tables can also cause septic tank problems. If the water table is high, it can pressure the septic tank, causing it to leak or even collapse. 

5) Humidity issues

High water tables can also cause humidity issues. When the water table is high, it can increase the humidity in your home, leading to mold and mildew growth.

What to do if you experience water damage caused by a high water table?

Taking immediate action is essential if you experience water damage caused by a high water table. Here are five steps you should take:

Step 1. Contact a professional

If you're experiencing water damage, it's essential to contact a professional right away. The proper professional can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.

Step 2. Stop the water source

If you can identify the source of the water, it's essential to stop it immediately. Identifying the source will help prevent further damage.

Step 3. Remove the water

Once you've stopped the water source, you'll need to remove the water from your property. 

Step 4. Dry the area

Once you've removed the water, you'll need to dry the area as soon as possible. Restoration technology like dehumidifiers and air movers is the best way to dry wet property thoroughly.

Step 5. Clean and disinfect the area

Once the area is dry, it's essential to clean and disinfect it to prevent mold and mildew growth.

High water tables can cause a lot of damage to your property, and these steps can help prevent further damage and keep your property in good condition.

How SERVPRO of South Cobb can help

We hope you enjoyed learning about high water tables and found the information provided in this blog post helpful. If you are dealing with water damage caused by a high water table, SERVPRO of South Cobb is here to help. We're a professional water damage restoration company with the certifications and experience to get the job done right. When you choose to contact us for water damage services, we will:

• Assess the damage and recommend the best course of action
• Stop the water source.
• Remove the water
• Dry the area
• Clean and disinfect the area.

We understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with water damage. That's why we're available 24/7, so don't hesitate to contact us. We're always here to help!

The 5 Most Common Causes of Apartment Odors

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO to help combat strong odors!

Apartment odors can come from a variety of sources.

If you've ever walked into your apartment and been hit with an overwhelming smell, you're not alone. Odors can be caused by various things, from pets to cooking. In some cases, the smell may persist, and if you can't seem to get rid of it, you will want to contact professional help. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb has years of experience in dealing with all types of apartment odor removal jobs and can get your property smelling fresh and new again in no time. Through our extensive experience in dealing with apartment odor removal, we have compiled a list of the five most common causes of apartment odors so that you can be prepared for when they occur to your property.

The five most common causes of apartment odors 

As we already mentioned, apartment odors can come from various sources, and some smells may be more noticeable than others, and some may be more difficult to remove. Here are the five most common causes of apartment odors that our SERVPRO professionals have come across:

1. Pet urine or feces - This is one of the most common apartment odors and can be challenging to eliminate if not dealt with immediately. The smell of pet urine or feces can be powerful, pungent, and may linger in your home for a long time if not cleaned up properly.
2. Cigarette smoke - Cigarette smoke is another common apartment odor that can be difficult to remove. The smell of cigarette smoke can be powerful and lingering, and it can be hard to get rid of if you don't have the right tools and products.
3. Cooking odors - Cooking odors are another common apartment odor that can be difficult to remove. The smell of cooking can linger in your home for a long time, especially if you don't have the proper ventilation.
4. Dirt and dust - Dirt and dust can also cause apartment odors. The smell of dirt and dust can be powerful and pungent, and it can be hard to get rid of if you don't have the right tools and products.
5. Mold - Mold damage can also cause apartment odors. The smell of mold can be powerful and pungent, and certified professionals should only handle it to avoid the spread of spores.

If you're dealing with any of these apartment odors, SERVPRO of South Cobb can help. 

What to expect when working with an apartment odor removal professional

When working with an apartment odor removal professional, they will first identify the source of the odor. Once the source has been identified, they will assess the best course of action to remove the odor. 

Sometimes, the apartment odor removal process may be as simple as cleaning up a spill or removing pet urine. However, in other cases, it may be necessary to use an ozone generator and products to remove the odor.

SERVPRO of South Cobb: Apartment odor removal professionals 

We hope you found this blog helpful in indicating your apartment odor. No matter the apartment odor's cause, SERVPRO of South Cobb has the experience and expertise to get rid of it quickly and effectively. We understand how important it is to have a fresh and clean space, and we will work promptly and efficiently to get your home smelling its best.

If you're dealing with an unwanted apartment odor, contact SERVPRO of South Cobb today. Our professionals are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help you with your apartment odor removal needs. We're always here to help!

The Top 5 Causes of Crawl Space Water Damage

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for fast water restoration services!

Standing water in your crawl space is not only a nuisance, but it can also lead to severe structural damage.

Most homeowners don't think about their crawl space until there's a problem. And by that time, it's often too late. Crawl space water damage can cause severe problems for homeowners, from structural damage to mold growth.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have mitigated crawl space water damage caused by countless reasons, but here are the top five:

1. Roof leaks
2. Plumbing leaks
3. Overflowing gutters
4. Grading issues
5. Foundation cracks

This blog post will detail these five most common causes of crawl space water damage. We'll also provide some tips on handling standing water in your crawl space and preventing future damage.

What is crawl space water damage?

Crawl space water damage is damage that occurs when water enters the crawl space of a home and causes damage to the structure and contents. The crawl space is the area between the ground and the first floor of a house. It is common for a crawl space to store HVAC systems, plumbing, and electrical wiring. Therefore, a property owner will want to mitigate crawl space water damage as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

The five most common causes of crawl space water damage

Now that you know more about crawl space water damage, let's look at the five most common causes:

1. Roof leaks

A roof leak is one of the most common causes of crawl space water damage. If your home has an old or damaged roof, it's more susceptible to leaks. Water can enter through holes or cracks in the roof when it rains and drips down into the crawl space. To prevent crawl space water damage from a roof leak, have your roof inspected regularly and repaired or replaced as needed.

2. Plumbing leaks

Leaking pipes can also cause crawl space water damage. If a pipe in your crawl space leaks, the water will seep into the surrounding soil and may eventually find its way into your crawl space. To prevent crawl space water damage from a plumbing leak, have your crawl space inspected regularly and any leaks repaired immediately.

3. Overflowing gutters

Another common cause of crawl space water damage is overflowing gutters. If your gutters are not properly cleaned and maintained, they can become clogged with leaves and debris. When it rains, the water will overflow from the gutters and run down the side of your house. If the gutters are improperly installed, the water can pool near your foundation and eventually find its way into your crawl space. To prevent crawl space water damage from overflowing gutters, clean your gutters regularly and make sure they are correctly installed.

4. Grading issues

Grading is the process of designing slopes and hills around your home to prevent pooling near the foundation. However, if the grading around your home is improper, water can pool near the foundation and eventually find its way into your crawl space. To prevent crawl space water damage from improper grading, inspect the grading around your home regularly and correct it as needed.

5. Foundation cracks

Foundation cracks are another common cause of crawl space water damage. If there are cracks in your foundation, water can enter your crawl space and cause damage. To prevent crawl space water damage from foundation cracks, have your foundation inspected regularly and repaired as needed.

Tips for dealing with standing water in your crawl space

If you find standing water in your crawl space, take these steps to dry it out and prevent further damage:

Tip 1) Remove any standing water

If there is standing water in your crawl space, remove it as soon as possible. The longer the water sits, the more damage it can cause.

Tip 2) Inspect for leaks.

Once the water is extracted, inspect your crawl space for leaks. Look for cracks in the foundation, holes in the roof, or any other openings where water could have entered.

Tip 3) Repair any leaks.

If you find any leaks, repair them immediately to prevent further damage.

Tip 4) Dry out the crawl space.

Once all the leaks are repaired, dry out the crawl space as much as possible. A professional restoration company like SERVPRO of South Cobb will strategically place industrial fans and dehumidifiers to dry the crawl space and prevent mold and mildew growth.

Preventing future crawl space water damage

To prevent future crawl space water damage, inspect your crawl space regularly and ensure any leaks are repaired immediately. You should also clean your gutters regularly and ensure they are correctly installed. If you live in an area with a high water table, you may consider installing a sump pump to remove any water entering your crawl space.

These steps can prevent crawl space water damage and keep your home in good condition.

How SERPVRO of South Cobb can help with crawl space water damage

We hope you enjoyed learning about crawl space water damage. If your crawl space has been damaged by water, SERVPRO of South Cobb can help. We are a professional water damage restoration company with the training and experience to dry out your crawl space and prevent mold and mildew growth.

As an IICRC-certified firm, we know the importance of working quickly to minimize the damage and get your home back to normal. So please feel free to contact us at any time for all your water damage needs. We're always here to help!

The Top 5 Causes of Summer Roof Damage and How to Prevent Them

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are always available for roof damage restoration.

Various factors can lead to summer roof damage, from severe weather conditions to poor maintenance.

Summer is a time when many people take vacations and enjoy the warm weather. However, summer can also be a time of trouble for your roof. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have seen it all when it comes to summer roof damage.

Your roof is constantly exposed to the elements during the summer months and needs to be maintained appropriately to avoid any storm damage. We put together this blog post so you can be aware of the top five causes of summer roof damage and how to prevent them. Make sure you read until the end so you can keep your roof in tip-top shape all summer long!

What are the top five causes of summer roof damage?

Summer roof damage is any damage that your roof sustains during the summer months. The top five causes of summer roof damage are:

1) Severe weather conditions

Summer storms can wreak havoc on your roof. High winds can cause shingles to blow off, trees to fall on your roof, and hail can damage your roof. All of these severe weather conditions can lead to summer roof damage.

2) Poor maintenance

Poor maintenance can lead to summer roof damage. Ensure you regularly inspect your roof for any signs of wear and have any repairs made as soon as possible.

3) Heat and sun

The heat and sun can cause summer roof damage. For example, the sun can fade and crack shingles, while the heat can cause asphalt shingles to become brittle and break.

4) Improper installation

If your roof is not installed correctly, it can lead to roof damage in the summer. Make sure you only hire a professional roofing contractor to install your roof. 

5) Poor ventilation

Poor ventilation can cause summer roof damage. When your attic is poorly ventilated, it can cause the temperature in your attic to rise, leading to shingles becoming warped and damaged.

What are some tips for keeping your roof in good condition all summer long?

Here are a few tips for keeping your roof in good condition all summer long:

• Inspect your roof regularly: Regular inspection is one of the best ways to prevent summer roof damage. First, look for any signs of damage, such as missing shingles, cracked shingles, or damaged gutters.
• Have any repairs made as soon as possible: If you find any damage to your roof, make the repairs as quickly as possible. The longer you wait to make repairs, the worse the damage will get.
• Hire a professional roofing contractor: When it comes to your roof, it's essential to hire a professional roofing contractor. A professional roofing contractor will be able to properly install and maintain your roof so you can avoid summer roof damage.

How can SERVPRO of South Cobb help you with summer roof damage?

If your roof is damaged during the summer, it's essential to have the repairs made as soon as possible. The longer you wait to make repairs, the worse the damage will get.

SERVPRO of South Cobb is a professional restoration contractor that knows how to handle summer roof damage. We have the experience and training to properly repair your roof so you can avoid any further damage.

We understand the importance of having your summer roof damage repaired quickly and efficiently, which is why we offer 24/hour emergency services. We will work around the clock to make sure your roof damage is repaired as soon as possible.

Don't hesitate to contact us today if you need assistance with roof damage this summer.

5 Key Benefits of Using an LGR Dehumidifier

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO understands the importance of properly using an LGR dehumidifier!

LGR dehumidifiers have been growing in popularity in recent years as more and more restoration professionals discover their benefits.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have many pieces of equipment in their arsenal. One of the essential pieces of equipment is an LGR dehumidifier.

There are many different types and models of LGR dehumidifiers on the market, but they all work to remove excess moisture from the air in a specific area. 

The following blog post will go over the five key benefits of using an LGR dehumidifier and why you should consider calling SERVPRO of South Cobb the next time you experience a restoration disaster.

What is an LGR dehumidifier?

LGR stands for "low grain refrigerant," and LGR dehumidifiers are excellent at removing excess moisture from the air. A grain is a unit of measurement for moisture, which is the amount of water in an item. A grain represents a single drop of moisture, with 7,000 grains equaling one pound. The refrigerating technique used to produce low grains is known as a refrigerant to restoration professionals.

LGR dehumidifiers work by drawing air from the affected area and passing it over a cooling coil. As the air passes over the cooling coil, the water vapor in the air condenses and is collected. The dry, cooled air is then passed back into the room, resulting in a decrease in the humidity levels.

You can use an LGR dehumidifier in a variety of situations. Some common examples include:

• Water damage restoration
• Basement waterproofing issues
• Mold remediation
• Humidity control in storage areas
• Crawlspace mold damage

The five key benefits

Now that you understand what an LGR dehumidifier is let's go over the five key benefits.

1. LGR dehumidifiers are efficient

The first key benefit of using an LGR dehumidifier is that they are efficient. They are efficient because they remove moisture from the air and dense materials quickly and effectively.

2. LGR dehumidifiers are lightweight

Another key benefit of using an LGR dehumidifier is that they are smaller and more lightweight than conventional dehumidifiers. LGRs are typically about half the size of a conventional dehumidifier and weigh less than half as much.

3. LGR dehumidifiers are portable

Another key benefit of using an LGR dehumidifier is that they are portable. LGRs can be easily moved from one room to another and are ideal for small spaces.

4. LGR dehumidifiers are quiet

Another key benefit of using an LGR dehumidifier is that they are quiet. LGRs use a special low-noise compressor that makes them much quieter than conventional dehumidifiers.

5. LGR dehumidifiers are energy efficient

Another key benefit of using an LGR dehumidifier is that they are energy-efficient. As a result, LGRs use less electricity than conventional dehumidifiers, making them more cost-effective to operate.

Why choose SERVPRO

We hope you enjoyed learning about the benefits of using an LGR dehumidifier. An LGR dehumidifier is a powerful tool useful in various situations.

It is essential to choose a restoration company that you can trust when using an LGR dehumidifier for water damage restoration, mold remediation, or humidity control services. SERVPRO of South Cobb is a locally owned and operated franchise with over 20 years of combined experience in the restoration industry.

We understand the importance of acting quickly in the event of restoration damages, and we will respond to you immediately. Once we arrive on-site, we will assess the damage and develop a customized action plan. Our plan aims to restore your home or business back to its preloss condition as quickly as possible.

Our team of certified technicians is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help you with all your restoration needs. Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time!

The Top 5 Reasons for a Boiler Leak: How to Prevent Them

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for any size commercial restoration project!

Preventing a boiler leak should be a top priority for any commercial property owner.

If you're a commercial property owner, there's a good chance that you will have to deal with a boiler leak at some point. While they can be a major inconvenience, it's important to remember that most boiler leaks are preventable.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have seen the first-hand effects of boiler leaks in commercial properties. When a boiler leaks, it can cause commercial water damage and disruptions. However, the right team of professionals can have your property restored quickly.  

In this blog post, we will discuss the five most common reasons for boiler leaks, with tips on preventing them from happening. So, without further ado, let's get this post underway!

What is a boiler, and what does it do?

A boiler is a device used to heat water and produce steam. It is an essential part of any commercial property, as it provides heat and hot water for the property's occupants. There are a few different boilers, but the most common type is the water boiler.

Water boilers heat water and produce steam. A boiler can heat the property, produce hot water, or power machinery.

What are the five most common reasons for boiler leaks?

There are a few different reasons that boiler leaks occur. However, some reasons are more common than others. Here are the five most common reasons for boiler leaks:

1. Pressure issues

One of the most common reasons for boiler leaks is pressure issues. When the boiler is not operating at the correct pressure, it can cause the boiler to leak.

2. Loose joints

Another common reason for boiler leaks is loose joints. Over time, the joints and connections in the boiler can loosen, which can cause water to leak out.

3. Damage to seals or body

Another common reason for boiler leaks is damage to the seals or body of the boiler. This damage can be caused by several things, such as corrosion, wear, and tear, or an accident.

4. Sediment trapped in pressure valve

Sediment can become trapped in the pressure valve of the boiler, which can cause the boiler to leak. Therefore, it is essential to have the valve cleaned or replaced as soon as possible.

5. Damaged blowdown valve

A blowdown valve releases contaminated water or solids. If the blowdown valve is damaged, it can cause the boiler to leak.

How can you prevent boiler leaks?

Now that we've discussed the five most common reasons for boiler leaks let's discuss how you can prevent them from happening.

As we mentioned earlier, boiler leaks are often preventable. Therefore, you can reduce the risk of a boiler leak occurring on your commercial property by taking the proper steps.

Here are some tips on how to prevent boiler leaks: 

Perform regular maintenance

One of the best ways to prevent boiler leaks is to perform regular maintenance. By regularly servicing the boiler, you can catch any potential problems before they cause a leak.

Inspect the boiler regularly

In addition to performing regular maintenance, you should also inspect the boiler regularly to identify any potential problems to be fixed before they cause a leak.

Keep the boiler clean.

Another way to prevent boiler leaks is to keep the boiler clean. Over time, boiler systems can become clogged with dirt and debris, leading to sediment build-up or pressure issues. By keeping the boiler clean, you can help to prevent these problems from occurring.

Repair any damaged parts

If any parts of the boiler are damaged, it is essential to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent the damage from worsening and causing a leak.

Replace any worn-out parts

Over time, some parts of the boiler will become worn out. Therefore, it is essential to replace these parts to prevent a boiler leak from occurring.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent boiler leaks from happening on your commercial property. However, if a boiler leak does occur, it is essential to have it repaired as soon as possible. A boiler leak can cause a lot of damage, so it is necessary to take action as quickly as possible to prevent further damage.

How can the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb help?

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb are experts in boiler leak cleanup and restoration. We have the training, experience, and equipment to handle any size boiler leak. Our team is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week so that we can respond immediately to your emergency.

When you call us, we will arrive on-site quickly and clean up the leak and restore your property. We understand the importance of getting your business back up and running as soon as possible, so we will work promptly and efficiently to get the job done right.

If you have a boiler leak, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of South Cobb. We are here to help!

7 Toaster Oven Safety Tips to Avoid Fire Damage

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for any size fire damage project!

Every year, toaster ovens cause thousands of fires in homes across the United States.

Toaster ovens are one of the most popular small appliances. They're efficient and durable and come in various sizes to fit your needs. But with that convenience comes a level of fire risk if not used and cared for properly.

Toaster ovens are responsible for more house fires than any other small appliance! If you have a toaster oven in your home, it is essential to be aware of the dangers and take precautions to avoid fire damage.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb understand that the best way to avoid fire damage is to prevent the fire from happening in the first place. Therefore, this blog post will discuss seven toaster oven safety tips that will help keep you and your family safe from potential toaster oven fire damage.

What are toaster ovens?

Toaster ovens are small appliances used to cook various foods, including meats, vegetables, and pizzas. They are similar to regular ovens, but they are smaller and typically have fewer features.

Are toaster ovens a fire hazard?

Toaster ovens are a fire hazard because they use electric coils to heat food. The coils can get very hot, up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, and can easily cause a fire if not used and cared for properly.

Toaster ovens will become a fire hazard concern when any of the following occurs:

• If the toaster oven is left on and unattended
• If something flammable, like a paper towel, is left too close to the toaster oven
• If the toaster oven coils become damaged or worn out
• If food crumbs or grease builds up on the toaster oven coils

Seven toaster oven fire safety tips

It is essential to follow these toaster oven safety tips to prevent fire damage in your home:

1. Always use your toaster oven on a flat level surface.
2. Do not leave your toaster oven unattended while it is in use.
3. Keep flammable objects, such as towels and curtains away from your toaster oven.
4. Use gloves or tongs to handle hot food.
5. Keep the toaster oven clean and free of crumbs.
6. Do not use aluminum foil to line the toaster oven.
7. Unplug the toaster oven when it is not in use.

What to do when a toaster oven causes a fire?

When a toaster oven causes a fire, it can quickly spread to other parts of your home and cause extensive damage. Therefore, if your toaster oven catches on fire, it is essential to know what to do to minimize the damage and keep yourself and your family safe.

The first thing you should do is unplug the toaster oven and turn off the power to the appliance. Then, using a fire extinguisher, attempt to put out the fire. If you are unsuccessful in putting out the fire, or if the fire is too large to handle, evacuate your home immediately and call 911.

Once you have evacuated your home, do not go back inside until the fire department has extinguished the fire. After the fire department has cleared the property safe to re-enter, you will want to contact a reliable fire restoration company to handle the fire damage.

Conclusion

Today we learned that toaster ovens are small appliances found in many homes across the United States. They're efficient and durable, but they also come with a level of fire risk if not used and cared for properly. 

We hope you enjoyed the seven toaster oven safety tips to help you avoid any fire damage in your home. If a toaster oven fire has damaged your home, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb are here to help. We have the training and experience to handle all aspects of fire damage restoration, from smoke and soot removal to repair and rebuild. We understand that fires are stressful events, and we will work quickly and efficiently to get your home back to normal. Contact us today for more information.

Content Cleaning: Our 5 Simple Step Process

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for your content cleaning needs!

SERVPRO professionals are dedicated to using the latest content cleaning technology to ensure that your belongings are restored to their pre-disaster condition. 

Your home is more than just four walls and a roof - it's your memories, belongings, and life. Unfortunately, when disaster strikes, your most valued items can be damaged and lead to an emotional toll on top of the physical damage to your property. 

Our content cleaning process is designed to help make your life a little easier during a time of need. When you contact SERVPRO of South Cobb for content cleaning, we will restore your belongings - whether we remove soot from books or return clothing to its original color. 

The content cleaning services offered by SERVPRO are a sure way to help you salvage many of your belongings and restore them to as close to new as possible. In the following blog post, we will outline the five simple steps to our content cleaning process so that you can feel confident that your belongings are in good hands. 

What is content cleaning?

Content cleaning is the process of cleaning and restoring damaged belongings and documents. It is essential to clean content as soon as possible after a disaster because the longer you wait, the more damage can occur. 

Our five-step content cleaning process

We are about to take a peek behind the curtain on what content cleaning looks like and the five simple steps that you can expect from our content cleaning process. 

1. Initial contact and assessment

The first step in the content cleaning process is to contact SERVPRO of South Cobb and provide us with some basic information about your content cleaning needs. We will then send a content cleaning specialist to your home or business to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. We will be looking at all of your damaged belongings to decide which items are salvageable. Our assessment helps us create a content cleaning plan customized to meet your needs and achieve the best possible outcome. 

2. Pack-out and inventory

The content cleaning process often involves content packing, which is the process of moving your belongings safely out of your home or business for content cleaning and restoration. During the pack-out will create an inventory list for all content that has been packed out so that we can return each item to its original location.

3. Deep cleaning 

The deep cleaning step in the process requires a trained content cleaning expert to ensure that your belongings are restored as quickly and efficiently as possible. As part of content cleaning, we take great care to evaluate each item and determine the best content cleaning method required for restoration - whether it's removing soot from books or returning clothing to its original color. 

4. Content restoration 

After the deep cleaning has been completed, our content restoration experts will work diligently to restore your belongings to their pre-disaster condition. Depending on the extent of damage, some items may require minor repairs while others may need to be replaced entirely. 

5. Pack-in and final assessment 

Once content has been cleaned and restored, our content cleaning specialists will carefully pack your belongings back into your home or business. We will then conduct a final assessment to ensure that you are delighted with our content cleaning services. 

Contact SERVPRO for content cleaning services

If you need content cleaning services after a house fire, flood, or mold infestation, contact SERVPRO of South Cobb. We are content cleaning experts and will work quickly and efficiently to get your belongings cleaned and restored. 

We understand that disasters are often unexpected and can be very overwhelming, which is why we want you to know that we are here to help make your life a little easier. Contact us today to have an IICRC certified specialist sent to your home or office. We are always here to Help!

Top 3 Ways To Protect Windows From Hail Damage

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO when your windows have hail damage!

No window is safe from hail damage.

Every spring, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb receive countless calls regarding hail damage to homes and businesses.

Nowadays, any area in the greater Atlanta region is prone to hail. Fortunately, there are many ways to protect your windows from hail damage. The following blog post will share three of the most popular and effective ways to protect your windows from hail damage.

You will want to ensure you read to the end to find out how we can help you with your hail damage claim!

What is window hail damage?

Window hail damage is a type of damage that can occur due to hail stones striking a window. The impact of the hailstones can cause the glass in the window to shatter, which can lead to severe problems if someone is standing near the window when it happens. The broken glass can also allow water to enter the building, which can cause further damage to the property.

How to protect your windows from hail?

There are three ways that you can protect and prevent hail damage to your windows:

1) Installing storm shutters. 

Installing storm shutters is one of the best ways to protect your windows against hail damage. Storm shutters consist of heavy-duty material, such as metal or plastic, which fit securely over your windows.

2) Installing a hail screen

Another way to protect your windows from hail damage is to install a hail screen. Hail screens are a heavy-duty mesh material designed to deflect hailstones away from your windows.

3) Cover your windows with thick blankets or towels. 

If you don't have storm shutters or a hail screen, you can still protect your windows from hail damage by covering them with thick blankets or towels. A dense material covering your windows will help cushion the impact of the hailstones and prevent them from shattering your windows.

Steps to take if you have hail damage to your windows

In the situation where you do experience hail damage to your windows, there are a few steps that you should take:

First, contact a reliable restoration company for storm damage restoration services. The team you choose to hire should have extensive training and ample equipment to help you with all types of property damage, including hail damage repair.

Second, contact your insurance company to file a claim. When you call your insurance company, be sure to have all of the pertinent information ready, such as your policy number and the details of the damage.

Third, take photos of the damage to your windows, including close-up shots of any cracks or chips in the glass. You will want to submit these photos with your insurance claim to get compensation for your hail damage repair costs.

Fourth, make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. You can do this by taping plastic sheeting over the broken windows or by covering them with plywood boards.

Finally, be sure to keep all of your receipts for any repairs or replacement windows so that you can submit them to your insurance company for reimbursement.

Let SERVPRO of South Cobb help you with your hail-damaged window.

The team at SERVPRO of South Cobb is here to help you when your windows have hail damage. We specialize in storm damage restoration and have the advanced tools, equipment, and expertise to help you get your home or business back to normal after a hailstorm. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb is an IICRC-certified firm, which means that we have the training and equipment to handle any type of property damage. We also have years of experience helping homeowners in your area with their hail damage claims.

Contact us today to schedule an estimate for your hail damage repair needs! We are available 24/7, 365 days a year!

The Pros and Cons of Installing Gutter Guards: What You Need to Know

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO if a storm has damaged your gutter guards!

Are gutter guards right for your home?

As a homeowner, you are responsible for cleaning your gutters regularly to prevent clogs and storm damage. But what if you could install gutter guards to always keep your gutters clean?

If you're on the fence about installing gutter guards, you need to read this blog post. We'll discuss the pros and cons of gutter guards so that you can make an informed decision about what's best for your home. Gutter guards can be a great way to protect your gutters from debris and keep them functioning correctly, but they aren't perfect. Let's look at some of the pros and cons of gutter guards!

What are gutter guards, and how do they work?

Gutter guards are a type of cover that you can install on your gutters to keep them free of debris. They work by diverging leaves and other debris before entering the gutter, thus preventing clogs. They come in various shapes and sizes, and you can find them at most home improvement stores.

Do gutter guards add value to your home?

Many homeowners ask if gutter guards add value to a home. The answer is yes. Gutter guards can add value to your home by preventing water damage and as a cosmetic addition. If you're looking to add value to your home, installing gutter guards may be an excellent way to do it.

What are the advantages of gutter guards?

Gutter guards have several advantages, including:

1. They keep your gutters clean and free of debris, preventing clogs and storm damage.
2. They are easy to install and can be found at most home improvement stores.
3. They are a great way to protect your gutters from pests and rodents

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb recommend gutter guards to their customers for the above reasons. If you are looking for an effective way to protect your gutters, gutter guards may be the right solution for you.

What are the disadvantages of gutter guards?

Despite their many benefits, gutter guards also have some disadvantages, including:

1. They can be expensive to install.
2. They may not be necessary if you clean your gutters regularly.
3. They can become loose.
4. They may not fit appropriately on your gutters, which could cause water to leak into your home.

The disadvantages listed above are essential to consider before installing gutter guards. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have received storm damage calls due to improperly installed gutter guards causing water to leak into the home.

So, should you install gutter guards?

The decision of whether or not to install gutter guards is a personal one. There are advantages and disadvantages to consider before making a decision. For example, gutter guards may be suitable if you're looking for an easy way to keep your gutters clean and free of debris. However, if you're willing to clean your gutters regularly, you may not need them. Ultimately, the decision is up to you!

Final thoughts

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb hope that this blog post has helped you decide whether or not to install gutter guards. Gutter guards may be a great way to protect your gutters and prevent water damage, but they aren't perfect.

As you have learned, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider before you decide to install them, and ultimately, the decision is up to you! But, of course, if you have any further questions, feel free to give us a call! We're always happy to help our customers in any way we can.

If your gutters require repair or replacement after a storm, our SERVPRO of South Cobb team can help! We specialize in storm damage repair and can help you get your home back to normal after a storm. Contact us today for more information!

5 Steps to Take After a House Fire: What to Do When Disaster Strikes

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO will help you with your house fire every step of the way!

It's important to know what to do in the aftermath of a house fire so that you can start rebuilding your life.

A house fire can be one of the most devastating things that can happen to a family. Not only do you have to worry about all of your belongings and memories being destroyed, but you also have to worry about the safety of your loved ones.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have restored homes and businesses after a fire, so we know a thing or two about the process. This blog post will discuss five steps you need to take after a house fire has occurred. So, without further ado, let's get started!

What can cause a house fire?

A house fire can start with several things, such as faulty wiring, a kitchen accident, or a candle that was left burning. No matter the cause of the fire, it's essential to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family.

If you experience a house fire, it's essential to remain calm and follow the steps below.

The five steps

In the aftermath of a house fire, it is essential to take the necessary steps to ensure that you and your family are quickly back on their feet. Here are five steps that you should take after a house fire has occurred:

Step One: Contact your insurance company

The first step you need to take after a house fire is to contact your insurance company. Next, you will need to file a claim to get the ball rolling on the rebuilding process. Make sure to have all of your paperwork in order before making the call.

Step Two: Contact a restoration company

After contacting your insurance company, the next step is to contact a restoration company. The right restoration company will help you with the following three steps.

Step Three: Make a list of damaged or lost items.

The next step is to list all the damaged or lost items in the house fire. The list will be used when you file your insurance claim. The software Xactcontents helps the professionals at SERVPRO keep track of everything from clothing to furniture to electronics.

Step Four: Start cleaning up the mess.

Once you have taken care of the paperwork and made a list of your damaged belongings, it's time to start cleaning up the mess. Here is where mitigation specialists at SERVPRO of South Cobb come in. We are experts in fire damage restoration, and we will work quickly to clean up the mess and get your home back to normal.

Step Five: Rebuild your home.

After the mess has been cleaned up, it's time to rebuild your home. This process can be daunting, but with the help of your insurance company and a reliable restoration company like SERVPRO of South Cobb, you will be back on your feet in no time. After your home is rebuilt, you should prevent future house fires from happening by following these steps to prevent house fires.

Final thoughts

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb hope that you never have to experience a house fire. However, if you do, we hope that this blog post has helped you understand what steps you need to take to get your life back on track.

A house fire is a traumatic event, but it is essential to remember that you are not alone. There are people who can help you through this difficult time. 

We want to be your go-to resource for fire restoration services! Please contact us if you need assistance with your fire cleanup and restoration process. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year, to help!

How to Prepare for a Spring Storm: The Ultimate Guide

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for emergency storm restoration services!

It's better to be prepared for a spring storm before it arrives. 

It's that time of year again; the flowers are starting to bloom, and the warmer weather is coming. But along with the arrival of spring comes the threat of severe storms. While you can't control the weather, there are preparation steps you can take to make sure you and your family are as safe as possible when a spring storm hits.

Before preparing for a severe storm, you need to know what kind of risks you're facing. Different areas have different risks. For example, if you live in an area prone to flooding, you'll need to take steps to protect your home from floodwaters.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb understand the severity that a spring storm damage can cause to your home and your property, so it's essential to be prepared. The following blog post will include tips on preparing for a severe spring storm and why you want to contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb for storm restoration services.

What kind of damage to look for after a spring storm?

When a spring storm hits, it can cause a lot of damage. Some common types of damage include:

• Trees and power lines down
• Roof damage
• Siding damage
• Window damage
• Flooding

Because Georgia is prone to spring storms, it's essential to know the signs of a storm before it arrives.

Know the signs of a severe spring storm

Without watching the news, certain signs indicate a severe spring storm is on its way. These include:

• Dark, greenish skies
• Thunder
• Rotating cloud formations
• Winds over 50 mph

If you see any of these signs, it's important to take cover immediately and prepare for the storm.

Preparing for a spring storm

Once you know a spring storm is on its way, it's essential to prepare your home or workplace. 

Tip 1: The first step in preparing for a spring storm includes ensuring all windows and doors are properly secured and that any loose items are brought inside. 

Tip 2: The second step in preparing for a spring storm is to ensure your home is equipped with the necessary materials and supplies. You will want to purchase a few extra cans of food, enough water to last a week, and plenty of flashlights.

Tip 3: The third step is to unplug any electronics in case of a power surge. 

Tip 4: The fourth step is to ensure your generator is ready to go with the proper fuel levels.

Tip 5: The fifth and final step is to develop a plan if you are forced to evacuate. The well-developed plan should include where you will go and how you will get there. It's also a good idea to have a list of emergency contacts on hand.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that you and your family are safe and prepared in the event of a severe spring storm.

Wrapping up

We hope you enjoyed learning about how to prepare for a spring storm. Remember, the best way to stay safe will always be to be prepared. 

If in the case that a spring storm damages your property, you can rely on the property restoration professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb to help get your property damage restored as soon as possible. All of the SERVPRO of South Cobb professionals are IICRC certified and are ready to help 24/7, 365 days a year!

We're dedicated to quickly responding when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damages, limits further damages, and reduces cost. Finally, when spring storms hit hard, we have the resources and personnel to help.

Contact us today if you have any questions or would like to schedule a spring storm damage inspection.

Backyard Fire Pit: 7 Safety Tips and When to Call SERVPRO

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for superb fire restoration services!

It is essential to prioritize safety when lighting a backyard fire pit! 

A backyard fire pit can be a great addition to any home. They provide a place for friends and family to gather around, roast marshmallows, tell stories, and enjoy each other's company. However, it is essential to remember that backyard fire pits come with risks. 

The professionals at SERVPRO have seen severe fire damages caused by backyard fire pits that were not used or maintained correctly. Therefore, before purchasing a backyard fire pit of your own, you should be aware of the following seven safety tips mentioned in this blog post. 

Follow these seven safety tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe while enjoying your backyard fire pit! And, if things go wrong and you experience fire damage, don't hesitate to call the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb for fire restoration services. We're here to help!

How to choose the right backyard fire pit?

When choosing the right backyard fire pit, consider a few things. First, size is essential- you'll want to choose one that is big enough for your needs, but not too big that it takes up too much space. You'll also want to make sure that the fire pit materials are weatherproof and durable. And finally, make sure to check your local ordinances to see if there are any restrictions on backyard fire pits.

How to use a backyard fire pit safely?

Backyard fire pits are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and entertain guests. However, it is critical to follow safety precautions to avoid fires or injuries. Here are seven tips to keep in mind when using a backyard fire pit: 

1) Make sure your fire pit is placed on level ground and is far away from any structures, including your house. At a minimum, your fire pit should be 50 feet away from any building.

2) Do not use flammable liquids to start the fire. Using flammable liquids can be very dangerous and easily cause a fire to spread.

3) Keep children and pets at least 5 feet away from the fire pit. In addition, never let children or pets play with fireworks near the fire pit.

4) Use caution when adding wood to the fire, as sparks can fly out and cause a fire. Also, try to avoid using softwoods like pine as they can easily create sparks.

5) Make sure the ashes are cool before disposing of them in a metal container.

6) Be aware of wind direction before lighting a fire. If the wind speed is too high, it is best to avoid starting an outdoor fire altogether.

7) Always keep a fire extinguisher on hand.

What to do when a backyard fire pit causes fire damage? 

If you experience a fire in your backyard caused by a backyard fire pit, there are a few things you should do. 

• First, make sure everyone is safe and out of the burning area. 
• Second, call the local fire department. 
• Third, call on fire restoration professionals for services. 
• Fourth, contact your insurance company to see if the fire damage is covered.

Why choose SERVPRO

At SERVPRO of South Cobb, we understand how devastating fire damage can be. Whether the fire is caused by a backyard fire pit or something else, we're here to help. We have the training, experience, and equipment necessary to restore your home or business to its pre-fire condition. 

Our fire restoration professionals will be there every step of the way to help you through this difficult time. We are dedicated to making it "Like it never even happened." 

If you need assistance with fire restoration, don't hesitate to contact us. We're available 24/7 and will respond quickly to your call.

3 Amazing Tips to Prevent Severe Hotel Water Damage

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the commercial water damage professionals at SERVPRO for superb services!

Water damage is a typical hotel problem; it's one of the leading causes of hotel closures.

The last thing that a hotel owner or manager wants are damages to their property, the guests' belongings, or even worse, closures. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have seen firsthand severe water damages to a hotel causing full closures.

Unfortunately, many hotel and motel owners are not aware of the risks associated with water damage, and they often end up paying the price. As your go-to commercial water damage company, we want to help you avoid water damage disasters, so we've put together the following blog post to include three tips to prevent severe hotel water damage.

The consequences of water damage in hotels

When water damage occurs in a hotel, several consequences can result. These consequences include:

• Closure of the hotel
• Damage to the hotel furniture
• Damage to guest belongings
• Damage to hotel flooring
• Damage to hotel walls

All of these consequences can lead to a significant loss of revenue for the hotel and a negative impact on the hotel's reputation. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms of a water leak and take steps to correct the problem as soon as possible.

The symptoms of hotel water damage

Several symptoms can indicate that there is water damage to a hotel. These symptoms include:

• Water stains on the ceiling
• Water stains on the walls
• Peeling or bubbling paint
• Wet carpet

If you notice any of these symptoms in your hotel, it is crucial to take action immediately. The longer you wait to address the problem, the worse the damage will become.

The most common sources of hotel water damages

There are many different sources of hotel water damage, and it is vital to be aware of them all. Some of the most common sources of water damage in hotels include:

• Leaking roofs
• Broken pipes
• Flooding
• Malfunctioning appliances
• Malfunctioning sprinkler systems
• Water leaks in bathrooms or kitchens

It is essential to be aware of these familiar sources of water damage to prevent damages from occurring. In addition, you should take steps to correct any of these problems as soon as they occur.

Preventing severe hotel water damage

To prevent hotel water damage, you should follow these three tips:

1. Inspect your property for water leaks regularly. By often thoroughly inspecting your property, you can catch any potential water leaks before they have a chance to cause severe damage. In addition, we recommend having a professional inspect your roof and plumbing at least once a year to help identify any potential problems.
2. Respond quickly to any water leaks. If you notice a water leak in your hotel, it is essential to address the problem as soon as possible to avoid further damages
3. Install commercial flood sensors to warn you of any potential flooding. The installation of flood sensors can help prevent severe damage during a flood event. Flood sensors will notify you when water levels reach a certain point, so you can take action to prevent further damage.

By following these three tips, you can help to prevent severe hotel water damage from occurring. However, if water damage does occur, it is essential to call a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of South Cobb as soon as possible.

Wrapping up

We hope you enjoyed learning about the risks associated with water damage in hotels and now know the steps you can take to prevent severe damage. 

If you experience a water damage emergency, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb. We are IICRC certified experts in commercial water damage restoration, and we will work quickly to get your hotel back to its preloss condition.

Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or would like more information on our commercial water damage services. We are available 24/7 to help.

3 Great Ways To Indicate A Warehouse Mold Issue

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for commercial mold remediation services!

Mold is a common issue in warehouses, and it's essential to identify it as soon as possible.

Mold can be a dangerous thing to have in your warehouse. Not only can it cause structural damages, but it can also lead to product spoilage. If you think you may have a mold problem in your warehouse, it's essential to call in professionals; SERVPRO of South Cobb has a team of experts to identify and perform warehouse mold removal.

To ensure your business is safe, it is essential to identify warehouse mold early and know when to call in professionals. Therefore, we put together the following blog post for any warehouse owner or employee wondering if they have warehouse mold damage.

We will discuss three easy ways to identify warehouse mold and will also talk about why you will want to call SERVPRO for mold remediation services when you suspect that your warehouse has been affected by mold.

Why warehouses are great environments for mold growth?

Warehouses can be an excellent environment for mold growth for a few reasons:

1. Warehouses are often dark and damp, the perfect environment for mold to grow.
2. Warehouses often have a lot of stored material, providing the ideal food source for mold.
3. Warehouses often have poor air circulation, allowing mold spores to spread quickly.

The three signs of a warehouse mold issue 

In most cases, a warehouse mold issue will be easy to detect. If you believe that there is a mold issue, you should contact a mold inspector to come out and perform a mold test to confirm the presence of mold. However, there may be clear indications of a mold issue even before performing a mold test.

The three most common signs that you have a warehouse mold issue are as follows:

1) Visible Mold: If you can see mold growing on your warehouse walls or ceilings, then you have a severe problem. Mold should be cleaned up and removed as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading.

2) Odor: A musty, earthy smell is often a sign of mold. If you smell a funky odor in your warehouse, it's essential to investigate further to see if there is a mold issue.

3) Untreated water damage: Untreated water damage often leads to a mold issue. Therefore, if you have water damage in your warehouse, it's essential to get it restored and dried out as soon as possible to prevent mold growth.

To truly understand the extent of the warehouse mold damages, we suggest that you contact a professional environmental consultant to come out and perform a mold test. If the environmental consultant confirms that there is a mold issue in your warehouse, SERVPRO of South Cobb can help clean up and remove the mold from your property.

Why contact SERVPRO for commercial mold removal services?

If you are experiencing any of the three signs of a warehouse mold issue, it's essential to call in professionals for mold removal services. At SERVPRO of South Cobb, we have experts identifying and removing warehouse mold. We also have a proven track record in eliminating unwanted mold growth from any size property.

Our IICRC certified professionals understand that mold can be a severe problem for businesses, and we will work quickly to get your warehouse back to normal. We also offer comprehensive restoration services to help you restore your warehouse if the mold damage is the consequence of untreated water damage. 

If you suspect a mold issue in your warehouse, please contact us today for a mold assessment consultation. We have the experience and equipment necessary to get the job done quickly and safely.

Roof Tarping: 5 Times You Will Want To Install a Roof Tarp

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the storm damage professionals at SERVPRO for emergency services!

If you will be working on your roof and want a little more protection from the elements, then installing a roof tarp is an excellent idea.

Roof tarps are simple yet effective at providing peace of mind while working on your home. In addition, they can help keep the weather out and prevent any potential damage from happening. If you live in an area prone to inclement weather, then a roof tarp is a must-have accessory for your home.

A roof tarp can provide many benefits such as weather protection, prevention of leaks, and added insulation. The following blog post will include five times a property owner will want to install a roof tarp. Continue reading to learn more about the importance of roof tarping and SERVPRO roof tarping services.

What is a roof tarp?

A roof tarp is a large fabric laid over a damaged roof to protect it from the elements. Tarps come in many different sizes and can be custom-fit to any roof. The best roof tarping materials consist of durable materials that withstand wind, rain, and snow. Although, we believe the best type of roof tarping material is woven polyethylene by Utarpit. Woven polyethylene is waterproof and will not tear or rip in high winds. In addition, many come with a UV coating to protect your roof from the sun's rays.

The installation process

Installing a roof tarp is a reasonably straightforward process. First, the tarp is laid out over the roof and secured in place. The tarp edges are commonly tucked under pieces of wood to keep it from flying away in high winds.

The best times to install a roof tarp

Many different scenarios will require a property owner to install a roof tarp on their property. Here is a list of the five most frequent times that the professionals at SERVPRO have installed roof tarps:

1) Storm damage: Arguably, the most important time to install a roof tarp is after a storm has caused damage to your roof. If your home or business has recently suffered damage due to a storm, it is vital to take action right away to prevent further damages with a roof tarp.

2) Additional protection from the elements: A roof tarp can protect your home from wind, rain, snow, and ice damage when the current roof in place is not sufficient.

3) Additional insulation: A roof tarp can help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It is a sure-fire way to keep your home more comfortable and help you save money on your energy bills.

4) Prevention of leaks: A tarp can help prevent water infiltration and subsequent damage to your home, especially when there are missing shingles or holes in the roofing system.

5) Maintenance: A roof tarp can be a helpful addition for any property owner performing maintenance on their roof.

Who to call for roof tarping

When it comes to tarping your roof, you will want to contact a professional restoration company. The right restoration contractor should be experienced, honest, and equipped to handle any roof tarping needs that you may have.

SERVPRO roof tarping services

When it comes to roof tarping services in the greater Atlanta area, you will want to contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb. Our roof tarping professionals have the experience and knowledge to handle any roof tarping needs that you may have. We are committed to providing quality storm damage services and helping our customers get their lives back to normal as quickly as possible.

If you require roof tarping services, please don't hesitate to contact us today. We would be happy to quickly help you start the restoration process.

5 Great Steps in Handling Water Damage in Your Apartment

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professional at SERVPRO for commercial water restoration services!

Apartment water damage can happen at any time and in many different ways.

Water damage can be a huge pain to deal with, especially if it happens in your apartment. When not prepared, the damage can quickly get out of hand and cost a lot of money to repair. If you're not sure how to handle the situation, don't worry! We're here to help.

Working with a water restoration company like SERVPRO of South Cobb is a sure-fire way to combat apartment water damage. But you won't have to contact a water damage restoration company if you know how to prevent water damage from happening in the first place.

In this blog post, we will discuss five steps that you can take to handle water damage in your apartment, as well as prevention tips. By following these steps, you can minimize the damage caused by water and get your life back on track as soon as possible!

Signs of water damage

Water damage can be challenging to detect, especially if it's not a significant leak. There are, however, a few signs that you can look for if you think your apartment might be experiencing water damage.

Some common signs of water damage include:

• Mold or mildew growth
• Damaged drywall or wallpaper
• Peeling paint
• Ceiling leak
• Water-spots on the walls
• Warped floors or doors
• Rusty appliances

If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to take action right away. First, contact your landlord and insurance company to report the damage and start the cleanup process.

Minimizing the apartment water damage

You may have water damage caused by heavy rain, a pipe burst, or maybe even an upstairs flat has flooded and caused the ceiling to collapse. No matter what the cause, you'll need to act quickly to mitigate the damages.

Here are five simple steps you should take to minimize water damage:

1. Make sure all parties involved are safe
2. Shut off the main water supply line
3. Contact your insurance adjuster
4. Dry out the property
5. Clean and restore the property

You should highly consider contacting the professionals at SERVPRO to dry out and restore your property quickly. SERVPRO professionals use Matterport technology and advanced equipment to help with the water extraction and sanitization process.

How to prevent water damage in your apartment

Water damage can be a massive headache, not to mention a significant financial burden. That's why it's essential to take steps to prevent water damage in your apartment.

Here are a few tips on how to prevent water damage in your apartment:

• Clean your drains and gutters regularly
• Check for leaks and fix them immediately
• Make sure your appliances are in good condition
• Replace old or damaged roofing
• Install a sump pump if you live in a flood-prone area

If you follow these tips, you can help reduce the risk of water damage in your apartment. Remember, the best way to deal with water damage is to prevent it from happening in the first place!

Wrapping up

We hope you enjoyed learning about apartment water damage. If ever faced with this unfortunate situation, follow the simple steps mentioned to minimize the damage and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.

When it comes to apartment water damage, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb can help. Our professionals have extensive training through the IICRC and know how to quickly and adequately dry out and restore damaged property.

SERVPRO of South Cobb is ready to respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with highly trained technicians to extract water and manage any restoration operations needed.

Contact us today for more information on our water restoration services. We promise to make it "Like it never even happened."

Dishwasher Water Damage: The #1 Worst Kitchen Nightmare

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the water restoration professionals at SERVPRO for 24/7 services!

Dishwasher water damage is a leading cause of disasters in the kitchen.

If you've ever had dishwasher water damage in your home, you know that it can be one of the most devastating plumbing disasters to navigate through. Unfortunately, a property owner will have a short amount of time to find a reliable restoration contractor and submit a home insurance claim.

Dishwashers use hot water and pressure, which can easily break the protective coating on connecting pipes and lead to leaks. If left untreated, dishwasher water damage can cause extensive structural damage to your home and cost you thousands of dollars in repairs. In the following article, we will discuss a recent dishwasher water damage call and what you can do to prevent it from happening in your home.

The real issue with dishwashers is that a leak can occur in the process of cleaning your dishes. Leaks are common anytime you combine gallons of water with heat and pressure. Leaks from a dishwasher can be detrimental to your home and significantly impact your household.

A recent call

Early last month, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb received a call from a customer after finding a large leak underneath their dishwasher. After receiving the call, we immediately dispatched a team of technicians to the scene, who quickly found extensive water damage in the customer's home that required mold remediation, drywall demolition, and comprehensive drying techniques to minimize the spread of any potential water and mold contamination.

After a thorough inspection, it was clear that the homeowner could have avoided the mold issue with an earlier call. We asked the customer how long the leak had been occurring. The homeowner responded, "the dishwasher is over 30 years old and had been leaking for about a month, most likely due to a faulty dishwasher drain line".

Our crews worked around the clock to ensure that the dishwasher water damage was adequately mitigated. Within a week after the site inspection, our professionals completed the necessary repairs and replacements to ensure that the home was safe for habitation.

If you've ever had dishwasher water damage in your home, chances are it was because you didn't maintain your dishwasher correctly. The elements inside a dishwasher can be extremely corrosive, and over time they can eat through the protective coating on your plumbing. So it's essential to have a plumber come out and inspect your home's plumbing every few years to ensure that you don't have any leaks, even if you think that everything is working as it should.

What homeowners can do to prevent dishwasher water damage

A homeowner can try to prevent any dishwasher water damage from occurring by regularly maintaining their dishwashers. Dishwashers contain corrosive substances, so you must check your home's plumbing periodically and look for rust or corrosion on the pipes connected to the dishwasher. If you notice any leaks around the base of your dishwasher, a clog in your drain line, or any other problems with your dishwasher pipes, contact a plumbing professional ASAP to prevent extensive water damage to your home.

When to contact SERVPRO

If you have already had dishwasher water damage in your home and need help from a professional restoration company, don't hesitate to give us a call. SERVPRO of South Cobb specializes in emergency water damage restoration. We have the equipment, experience, and expertise to restore your home to normal after it has experienced severe flooding or major leaks.

For emergency water removal services or more information on how you can prevent dishwasher water damage from happening, contact the IICRC certified experts at SERVPRO of South Cobb today.

Winter Fire Damage: The 6 Most Common Causes of Home Fires in the Winter

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professional at SERVPRO for emergency fire damage services!

One of the most common causes of home fires in the winter is the careless use of heaters and fireplaces.

Winter is a time when many people are busy celebrating the holidays with their loved ones. But unfortunately, this season can also be a dangerous time for homeowners because of the increased risk of home fires.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, winter is the most dangerous time of year for home fires. In fact, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb receive more fire damage calls in the months of December, January, and February than any other month. There are several reasons for this, but one of the leading causes is faulty heating systems. In this blog post, we will discuss the most common causes of winter fires and what you can do to prevent them from happening in your home!

The most common causes of winter fires

It is essential to be aware of the potential hazards and take precautions accordingly to prevent winter fire damage in your home. The most common causes of winter fires are:

1. Malfunctioning heating systems
2. Faulty electrical wiring
3. Candles that are left unattended
4. Dirty fireplaces
5. Cooking accidents
6. Smoking in bed

How to prevent winter fires in your home

The most important thing you can do when preparing for winter fire damage is to be mindful of potential hazards and take precautions accordingly! Therefore, one of the best ways to prevent a winter fire in your home is to ensure your heating system is working correctly. If you have any problems with your heating system, be sure to have it serviced by an HVAC professional. You should also make sure that all of your electrical wirings are up to code and in good condition.

Another way to prevent winter fires is to be mindful of candles and other open flames. Never leave candles burning unattended, and make sure they are placed in a safe place where they cannot be easily knocked over.

It is equally as essential to keep your fireplace clean and free of debris. Be sure to have it inspected and cleaned regularly. Finally, always be careful when cooking in your kitchen and never leave the stove unattended.

What to do in case of a winter house fire

If a fire does happen in your home during the winter months, you must plan what to do next.

If the fire is small, you should try to extinguish it yourself. Use a fire extinguisher or baking soda if you do not have anything else on hand, and remember that the more quickly you put out a small fire, the less likely it will become severe.

If you experience a large fire in your home, it is essential to take the necessary steps to prevent further damage. Here are four things you should do:

1. Evacuate your home immediately and call the fire department. Do not try to put out the fire yourself – this is best left to the professionals!
2. Ensure all of your family members and pets are accounted for and safe.
3. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They will help you file a claim and start the process of restoring your home.
4. Have the interior of your home inspected by a professional fire damage restoration team. The right team will assess the damage and develop a plan for repairing your home.

Emergency fire restoration services for homeowners

If you experience a fire in your home during the winter months, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb can respond immediately and help you through this difficult time. We are ready and willing to assist you with all your fire restoration needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week – 365 days a year!

Our experienced IICRC certified team offers various services to help you through a fire damage restoration claim. Please contact us today for more information!

5 Great Ways to Avoid Water Damage in Multi-Unit Buildings

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the commercial water damage professional at SERVPRO for quality service!

Water damage is a massive problem for multi-unit buildings in Atlanta. 

Water damage is common in multi-unit buildings, especially during the winter months. Unfortunately, water damage in multi-unit buildings is never small, and with all the water present, it can be challenging to fix and cause many inconveniences for tenants. Worse of all, inadequately managed water damage can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and other costly problems. 

We want all of our customers to avoid water damage. Water damage in multi-unit buildings can lead to: 

• Potential loss of rental income 
• Possible forced closure 
• Litigation issues 
• Permanent structural damages 

This blog post will discuss five ways to avoid water damage in multi-unit buildings. Following these tips below will help keep your building water damage-free and your tenants happy!

The causes of water damage in multi-unit buildings

There are many causes of water damage in multi-unit buildings, but some of the most common include water leaks caused by burst pipes, faulty sprinkler systems, and water leaks through foundation cracks.

Avoiding water damage in multi-unit buildings 

Here are five great ways to avoid water damage in multi-unit buildings: 

1) Maintain the gutters

When gutters do not drain water away from the building, water can seep into the foundation and cause water damage. Ensure to properly maintain your gutters by clearing them of dirt and debris every few months and check for other problems such as loose shingles and siding damage, which can also lead to water damage in multi-unit buildings.

2) Yearly roof inspections

Getting a roof inspection will help avoid water damage in multi-unit buildings and save you money down the road. Atlanta roofing professionals know that water leaks are one of the causes of roof failure. A roofing professional will check for loose shingles, wear and tear on flashings, and water penetration through valleys during an inspection. 

3) Prevent frozen pipes

Frozen pipes cause water damage to walls and floors as water leaks out of the frozen water lines. The best way to prevent frozen water lines is to allow cold water to run through the facet. Running water allows water to drip steadily through the waterline, preventing freezing and bursting.

4) Check often for foundation leaks

Foundation water leaks are a common cause of water damage in multi-unit buildings. Watch out for water seepage around water supply lines, water drains, and sewer lines, which could lead to foundation water leaks.

5) Get frequent plumbing inspections

A plumbing inspection can do a lot more than pointing out problem areas. For example, during a plumbing inspection, the inspector will check for water leaks and recommend water-saving appliances, water volume control devices, or water heater additions, which will all help avoid water damage in multi-unit buildings.

What to do if water damage occurs in your multi-unit building

When water damage occurs in your multi-unit building, it is important to take action right away. The first thing you should do is turn off the water supply to the building. Next, you should contact a water damage restoration company to come and assess the damage. 

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb are available 24/7 to help you clean up the water and restore your building to its original condition. No matter the size of the water damage restoration project, we will be there to help. We offer water damage and mold remediation services that include: 

• water extraction
• Strategically placing drying equipment
• Demolition
• Rebuild services.

Please contact us today for the fastest water damage cleanup services in Metro Atlanta. Our highly trained IICRC certified technicians use advanced water removal techniques to get water out quickly and reduce drying time.

Ice Dam Damage: 3 Great Tips To Prevent Ice Dams Damage

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for emergency water damage services!

Ice dam damage is a widespread problem during the cold winter months.

The end of the winter season is still a few months away. Meaning, homeowners should be cautious about common water damage disasters in the winter months.

One of the number one causes of water damages in the wintertime is ice dams. Ice dam damage will be apparent when a homeowner notices water leaks into their home from or near an area where ice and snow have accumulated. 

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb understand that ice dams are a common occurrence during the winter, and if not dealt with quickly, can cause significant water damage to a home. In this blog post, we will be going over what an ice dam is and give you three great tips to help prevent ice dams from forming and causing any damage.

What is an ice dam? 

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the roof's edge, generally along the gutters. The snow melting creates the ice dam on the roof, which refreezes, forming a thicker and harder ice ridge.

How do ice dams cause water damage? 

Roof leaks occur when water accumulates behind the ice dam and leaks into the property. It is common for an ice dam leak to cause extensive water damage. The water can damage ceilings, walls, insulation, and electrical systems. Therefore, it is essential to take action quickly if you notice water leaking into your home or near an area where ice and snow have accumulated. 

Three tips to prevent ice dams from forming and causing any damage

Water damage is the number consequence of an ice dam, and there are three main ways to prevent ice dams from forming and causing water damage to your home: 

Tip 1: Keep gutters clear

To keep ice dams from accumulating onto the roof, you will want to ensure that your gutters are clean, open, and able to carry water off the roof quickly. Also, make sure all downspouts are draining properly and not clogged by leaves or other debris.

Tip 2: Ensure proper roof ventilation

Proper ventilation is a great way to prevent ice dams from forming. In addition, by allowing the roof to vent, you will keep the roof cold, and any snow melting should escape quickly. To accomplish this, do not block any roof vents.

Tip 3: Install heat cables 

One of the best ways to prevent an ice dam from forming is to keep the snow off the roof. If snow cannot collect on the roof, it can't melt and create an ice dam.

Heat cables are a great option if you want to ensure that your roof is kept as snow and ice-free as possible. The heat from the cables will keep the roof's surface from ever reaching freezing temperatures, which would prevent snow and ice from accumulating on it.

SERVPRO ice dam damage restoration 

We hope you enjoyed learning about ice dams and what you can do to prevent them from causing any damage. 

If you notice that water is leaking into your house from or near an area where ice and snow have accumulated, call the experts at SERVPRO of South Cobb right away for fast water removal services. We will restore your property to pre-damage condition using our extensive knowledge and skills. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb is a professional water damage restoration company that can help homeowners with their restoration needs. We understand the importance of acting quickly when a customer notices water leaking into their home. 

If you require water damage restoration services, please contact us today. We are IICRC certified and available 24/7, 365 days a year, to help!

4 Great Reasons Why A Dryer Is Leaking Water

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for quality water mitigation services!

Most common household dryers will last for ten years or more.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb receive hundreds of water damage calls each year, and a dryer leaking water always causes a few. For example, a leaky dryer can leave leaks around the door seals and puddles on the floor surrounding the dryer.

The following blog post will cover four causes of dryer leaks. Be sure to read until the end to find out how the professionals at SERVPRO help property owners combat water damage and restore a property to its pre-disaster condition.

How to detect a dryer leak?

The best way to detect a dryer water leak will be through a quick water damage assessment:

• Visually check for puddling
• The smell of musty odors
• Listen for any strange noises
• Utilize a moisture meter to check the drywall surrounding the dryer

Any dryer that malfunctions can cause water damage to your home's sheetrock, flooring, and drywall surrounding the dryer.

Dryer leaking water cause #1 - Stacked washer & dryer malfunction

It is common for property owners with a stacked washer and dryer system to believe that their dryer is leaking when in fact, it is the washer that is causing the leak. Washing machine leaks can be caused when the stacked washer and dryer are not level.

A stacked washer and dryer can also cause water damage when the washer has a faulty connection to the dryer or plumbing piping.

Dryer leaking water cause #2 - A damaged seal on the dryer door

A dryer drum can't correctly dry clothes if not sealed well around the dryer door. A dryer leak is often caused when a dryer has a damaged dryer door seal.

Dryer leaking water cause #3 - Blocked vent pipe

A dryer works by heating air and directing it into your dryer drum where your clothes are. The heated air absorbs moisture from the load and then leaves through a vent pipe. The vent pipe is designed to help a dryer breathe by directing the dry air through a dryer vent and out of your home. 

The airflow will be restricted when the vent pipe connected to your dryer becomes blocked with lint buildup. When the airflow is restricted, the dryer will not expel heated air causing moist air to collect and condense inside the dryer.

If the airflow in your vent pipe is being blocked, you should consider calling the professionals at SERVPRO to come and clear out your duct vent pipe and clean up any standing water damage.

Dryer leaking water cause #4 - Defective vent cover

A dryer vent cover is what helps dryer vent air escape your home and keep rain, animals, and leaves from entering the vent pipe. However, when the cover becomes defective, it may allow rainwater to enter the ventilation pipe and cause a water leak.

A quick inspection is the best way to check if the vent cover is defective. If you notice that the vent cover is defective, you should replace it.

Wrapping up

We hope you enjoyed learning about dryer water leaks and their common causes. We understand how much stress and time will affect a homeowner's normal routine when their property has water damage. Our professionals want to help; we can make the disastrous situation easier to bear by quickly responding and drying out any standing water.

Our professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb will come to your water-damaged property equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and several restoration drying techniques taught by the IICRC. There is no water damage disaster that we can't dry out and restore to its pre-disaster condition.

Contact us today for 24/7 emergency services or more information.

Soot Cleaning Services: The #1 Best Way To Fix Smoke Damage

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO for superb soot cleaning services!

A property with fire damage will include soot particles settled into objects and surfaces around the property.

Picture this; a small grease fire just started on the stovetop, and you try to put it out with a pan lid but quickly realize that the fire is still blazing. You grab the fire extinguisher and put the fire out, but now there are black-looking spots all over your kitchen cabinets, walls, and countertops. Those black spots are soot, and they will not come off without professional soot cleaning services.

When soot particles settle on your property, they're not just an eyesore - they contain chemicals and residue that can cause significant damage over time. Soot can enter cracks and crevices, under cabinets and trim, behind walls, and more. Worst of all, if you try to wipe soot away from these areas, you might make a bigger mess of things by creating a soot-stained area.

The following blog post will outline how the professionals at SERVPRO clean up soot after a fire has occurred and how different types of fires cause different types of soot damage.

What is soot?

Soot are particles left behind after fire has occurred. Soot particles can be extremely difficult to remove from surfaces, furniture, or clothing after a fire because they are so small.

Soot can cause various problems to your property, including the destruction of property or furnishings: Soot residue is corrosive and will eat away at many surfaces over time if not cleaned off. When left untreated future damage or even destruction of property or furnishings may occur.

Soot damage cleaning depends on the type of smoke produced.

The cleaning protocols for cleaning soot will depend on the smoke produced in the fire.

Here are the four types of smoke damage:

1. Wet smoke damage
2. Fuel/oil residue damage
3. Protein residue smoke damage
4. Dry smoke damage

Wet smoke damage 

A fire that produces wet smoke damage will create a sooty mess that is difficult to clean. For example, wet smoke is produced when plastics and rubbers are burned.

A property owner will easily distinguish wet smoke damage from the smell and how it looks. Wet smoke fires will leave thick soot, which is difficult to clean.

Fuel/oil residue smoke damage

A fire that produces fuel/oil residue smoke damage will create a sooty mess that requires time and patience to clean. Fuel soot is easier to clean than wet smoke soot but will require extra effort.

Fuel/oil residue smoke can occur when a home furnace malfunctions and causes puff-back. The sooty residue left behind will be dense and sticky with a foul odor.

Protein residue smoke damage

Grease fires often cause protein residue smoke damage. The soot caused by protein residue smoke will appear smooth or greasy. 

These soot particles are the most difficult to see but can be distinguished by a pungent odor. Protein residue smoke damage is fairly easy to clean and will usually come off with a soot sponge.

Dry smoke damage

A fast-burning, high-temperature fire started by paper or wood will produce dry smoke damage. Restoration professionals find dry smoke damage the easiest type of smoke residue to clean.

It is essential to call fire restoration professionals for dry smoke damage. Although it is easy to clean off of walls and other surfaces, dry smoke damage may leave a lingering smell even after the space looks like it never had fire damage. 

SERVPRO soot cleaning services

When soot damage is discovered, the first step is to contact a professional fire restoration company. SERVPRO of South Cobb offers soot cleaning services with trained technicians experienced in dealing with all types of fire restoration scenarios.

The soot cleaning process begins with an initial assessment of the damage. Our technicians will consider the type of smoke damage, the extent of soot residue, and any other damages that the fire has caused.

Once the initial assessment has been completed, our technicians will begin the soot cleaning process. This process involves using specialized equipment and techniques to remove soot from all surfaces.

The soot cleaning process can be a time-consuming, challenging endeavor, but our team is up for the task. We will work diligently to restore your property to its pre-fire condition.

If you have suffered soot damage, please contact us today. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year, to help!

The Top 3 Reasons Homeowners Should Install a Sump Pump

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

Contract the professionals at SERVPRO for water damage restoration services!

The number one best way to prevent flooding in your basement or crawlspace is with a sump pump.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have found that sump pumps are vital to saving homes from flood damage. But how exactly do sump pumps work, and what do they do? The following blog post will answer those two questions and focus on the three main reasons why homeowners should install a sump pump in their homes.

You will want to read until the end to find out what kind of sump pump the professionals at SERVPRO suggest installing. 

What is a sump pump? 

A sump pump is a type of water pump installed to prevent flood damage from affecting a home or business. A sump pump is generally activated once the water levels reach a certain point within a sump pit. However, the sump pump can also be activated manually for troubleshooting purposes or an issue with the sump pump sensors.

Three reasons to install a sump pump

1) It is cheaper than flood damage.

Installing a sump pump is much more affordable than dealing with flood damage to your home. The professionals at SERVPRO know that flood damage can cost several thousands of dollars and can damage sentimental items that are impossible to replace. 

With a properly installed sump pump, the sump pumps will catch the excess water before it has the chance to damage your home.

2) Alerts the homeowner 

An installed sump pump will alert a property owner of an issue before it becomes a bigger problem. In more recent years, sump pump technology will alert a homeowner's mobile device when the sump pump detects excess water. 

3)Prevents mold damage 

A properly installed sump pump will ensure that your basement or crawlspace stays dry. Mold thrives in warm, moist conditions, and sump pumps will keep mold from growing. 

It is essential to always keep your home dry and never let water damage sit for longer than 48 hours to prevent mold growth. 

What is the best type of sump pump to install? 

There are two types of sump pumps to consider installing, submersible pumps and pedestal pumps. A submersible pump is installed in the sump pit. A pedestal sump pump is installed above the sump pit's sump pump system. The sump pump that you select may depend on the location of your sump pit. 

When choosing a sump pump, you will want to consider if the pump comes with a battery backup because when the home has a legitimate power outage, the sump pump with a battery backup will still pump out excess water and keep your home safe from flooding.

The professionals at SERVPRO have seen both types of sump pumps work effectively. With that being said, the one that we suggest installing should be one made with corrosion-free materials, a quality alarm system, and a backup battery.

Wrapping up

We hope you enjoyed learning about the three reasons why a homeowner should consider installing a sump pump. Installing a sump pump is arguably the best way to protect a home from flood damage. 

The right sump pump will alert you of any issues before they become severe and will protect your crawlspace or basement from growing mold. 

The professionals at South Cobb are here 24/7 to assist you with any questions regarding flood damage prevention. We want to ensure that your home stays dry and safe from water damage for many years to come. 

Contact us today or check out our blog for more information on restoration tips and tricks to protect your home from preventable damages.

Restoration Equipment: 5 Essential Pieces of Equipment For Success

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb for prompt restoration services!

The team at SERVPRO of South Cobb has quality restoration equipment ready for any size disaster.

There should never be a shortage of equipment available for disaster restoration, but what restoration equipment is needed? There are five pieces of restoration equipment found in every SERVPRO truck that can help make sure the entire restoration process is taken care of properly. These five pieces of restoration equipment include dehumidifiers, axial air blowers, centrifugal air movers, air scrubbers, and moisture meters.

In the following blog post, we will go over the purpose and functionality of each of these five pieces of restoration equipment and how they make the restoration process faster and easier.

What are dehumidifiers?

The first piece of restoration equipment that we are going to discuss is dehumidifiers. A dehumidifier is a piece of restoration equipment that helps a concealed space at an appropriate humidity level when not be easily reached.

Restoration professionals will properly place dehumidifiers when there is excessive moisture or potential for mold growth. Professionals can use this piece of restoration equipment to help prevent secondary damages.

Dehumidifiers are commonly left on-site for multiple hours to help pull moisture out of the air to prevent future microbial growth.

What is an axial air blower?

An axial air blower is a piece of restoration equipment commonly used for restoration jobs that require air movement. For example, a water damage restoration job will require air movement. The goal of using an axial air mover is to aid in quick evaporation and drying – especially if there are still wet materials involved.

Restoration professionals understand the importance of using axial air movers precisely to maximize the benefits and minimize possible risks. There are different settings for the speed of airflow to be used with different restoration jobs.

What is a centrifugal air mover?

Centrifugal air movers are similar to axial air blowers but more powerful, making them essential pieces of restoration equipment used in restoration jobs.

A centrifugal air mover works by pulling in surrounding air and forcing the air to spin around an impeller, increasing airflow velocity. The greater velocity needed for restoration jobs will lead restoration professionals to use this piece of restoration equipment more frequently since they can move more air at a rapid rate.

What is an air scrubber?

Air scrubbers are restoration equipment that must be used by restoration professionals when restoration jobs involve the removal of contaminants in the air.

Air scrubbers have a fan used to pull in contaminated air, which passes through a carbon filter that catches any hazardous pollutants before being released back into the atmosphere.

An air scrubber is typically used when a restoration job has thick smoke, high amounts of soot, ash from a fire, or musty mold smells.

What is a moisture meter?

A moisture meter is a piece of restoration equipment that measures the amount of moisture vapor in damaged contents and can measure the restoration process.

There are two different types of moisture meters: pin and pinless. A pin moisture meter has a needle that penetrates the surface of any restoration job needing moisture measurement, while a pinless moisture meter does not.

Final thoughts

Restoration professionals need to have dehumidifiers, axial air blowers, centrifugal air movers, air scrubbers, and moisture meters nearby to properly execute any size restoration project.

More important than having the equipment is knowing how to properly place the restoration equipment. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb are all certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). So, it is safe to assume that we are strategically placing restoration equipment on a job site.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions regarding our restoration equipment.

The 5 Main Causes of a Leak Under The Kitchen Sink

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the water damage restoration professionals at SERVPRO for 24/7 emergency services!

A small leak under the kitchen sink can result in severe damages when not caught in time.

The most common service call that the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb receive involves water damage. Water damage comes without warning and can cause thousands of dollars worth of property damage. In the following blog post, we will go over the five most common causes of water damages caused by kitchen sinks.

By the end of this blog post, we hope you understand how to prevent a kitchen sink leak by knowing the causes and taking the preventive measures listed at the end of this post. 

Understanding the sign of kitchen sink water damage

A kitchen sink leak can go unnoticed for a long time and become an extensive leak that causes a magnitude of damages. People need to know the signs of a kitchen sink leak. The most common signs include:

• Mud trails in the below kitchen cabinets
• Discoloration on the ceiling below the leak
• Any dampness in the area near the kitchen sink

The 5 Main Causes Of Leak Under The Kitchen Sink

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have mitigated and restored hundreds of kitchen sink water damages, and the following are the five most common causes for a leak under the kitchen sink.

1) Clogged sink trap

A clogged sink trap can cause water to back up and overflow. A sink trap sits between your sink and drain pipe preventing any large scraps or debris from flowing down into the drain. A leak can happen if debris clogs up your sink trap or if it's just full of hard water deposits that have never been cleaned out.

2) Faucet leak

A faucet leak can cause a leak under the kitchen sink if water is constantly flowing from it. The leak can be caused by a crack in the faucet or a loose handle that isn't clamping down to stop the water flow.

3) Drain leak 

A drain leak can be another reason for the leak under a kitchen sink. A leak can happen if water is constantly flowing down through your drain piping and coming back up through any of the connections in the drain. Drain leaks can also come from faulty caulking around the drain pipes.

4) Cracked pipes

Any cracked kitchen sink pipes can leak water if it's not dealt with promptly.

5) Corroded washers 

Corroded washers are the final reason for a leak under your kitchen sink. Worn-out washers are one of the causes of a leak that can be prevented by changing out the washers every few years to prevent them from rusting or wearing out.

Prevention tips for kitchen sink leaks

Now that you know what causes leaks under the kitchen sink let's go over some prevention tips to keep it from happening.

• Avoid clogged kitchen sink traps by having your drains cleaned regularly or at least once a year. You should also remove any large debris from your sink before letting the water run down the drain.
• Check the handles on your faucets for loose fittings. Tighten up any loose faucet handles by turning them clockwise and ensuring the handle is secure to shut off the water flow.
• Keep an eye on any corroded washers and pipes and replace them before they start to leak.

Final thoughts

We hope that this blog post has taught you how to identify and prevent leaks under the kitchen sink to save yourself some time, money, and hassle. For more tips on leak prevention or mitigation information, be sure to check out our blog.

SERVPRO of South Cobb is a locally-owned and operated restoration company with the training and experience to assist you with any size water damage disaster. Our technicians are certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in water damage mitigation, construction drying, fire restoration, carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, tile & grout cleaning service, air duct cleaning, mold remediation, and biohazard cleanup.

Call the number above or click here to fill out a contact form today. We'll get in touch with you as soon as possible to schedule an appointment at your convenience.

When Lightning Strikes: 3 Main Hazards To A House When Hit

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO when your home or business is affected by lightning.

A lightning strike is one of the most common causes of property damage and fire-related property insurance claims in America.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have developed the reputation of being the go-to company for property damage restoration throughout the greater Atlanta region. On rare occasions, we have received calls regarding fire damage to a home after being hit by lightning.

Lightning strikes are one of the most dangerous hazards that a house can face, and in the following blog post, we will learn more about what happens when lightning strikes a house and how all house members can stay safe. Make sure you read to the end, where you will find out the three main hazards to a house that has been struck by lightning and how the professionals at SERVPRO can help.

How do lightning strikes occur?

Lightning strikes are caused by the buildup of electrical discharges in the atmosphere. Most of the time, lightning begins to form in clouds or other storm fronts and will travel for miles before hitting anything on the ground.

3 common hazards from lightning striking a house

Fire Damage: The most severe hazard to your house when struck by lightning is fire damage. Lightning can cause fire damage in two ways: a direct hit to the roof or siding, causing it to ignite. The other fire damage to look out for is an electrical fire that starts in the wiring of a house. 

Shock Waves: When lightning strikes a home directly or near, an explosive shock wave will follow. In the past, we have seen lightning shock waves shatter glass windows and damaged siding.

Power Surge: As you already learned, an electrical fire may occur when lightning comes in contact with the home electrical wiring. Something that can also occur is a power surge. A power surge is an unusually high amount of voltage that comes through the electrical system and into devices.

In the past, we have seen many electronics damaged after the home is hit by lightning. Surges come in different sizes and will occur when the wiring in your home absorbs all of the electricity from one bolt and then has to release it into another wire or appliance which is not equipped for this type of surge.

It is best to invest in a quality surge protector to avoid damaged electronics caused by a power surge. Surge protectors can be bought at most hardware and electrical supply stores for around $20-$30, depending on the quality and how many outlets you need to cover.

What to do when your home is struck by lightning?

If your home is struck by lightning, you must find out if any fires have started. You will want to check all areas of the house, including the attic because the attic is the most common area for a fire to break out after a lightning strike. You must call the local fire department at first sight or smell of fire.

Safety always must be a homeowner's top priority. Therefore, after the storm has passed, you should contact the professionals at SERVPRO to come and inspect your property whether a fire broke out or not.

Wrapping up

As you can see, when lightning directly strikes a house, it can cause all sorts of severe damages. Unfortunately, lightning strikes to a home are nearly impossible to prevent, but you can develop an emergency disaster recovery plan to prevent the damages from becoming worse.

Please contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb after lightning strikes your property. SERVPRO of South Cobb is an IICRC certified firm that specializes in fire damage restoration.

Disaster Recovery Plan: The #1 Best Preparation Guide for Property Owners

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for a free disaster recovery plan!

Disaster can strike at any moment, but when prepared, the damages will be minimized.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb want all property owners to know that disaster recovery planning is essential. We have witnessed businesses with the most intense fire/water disasters go back to a normal functioning business in less time than other businesses that did not plan.

The following blog post is intended for commercial property owners, but residential property owners will also find it useful. We will discuss why having a disaster recovery plan is essential and what SERVPRO's free disaster recovery plan includes. So, without further ado, let's get started!

Why is a disaster recovery plan essential?

Before we start describing why having a disaster recovery plan is essential, we must first define disaster recovery. Disaster recovery is the process of restoring the property and a property's operations after a disaster. For property owners, they need to have a disaster recovery plan to know what steps to take after a disaster happens to get their property and operations back to normal.

The best disaster recovery plans will include information to ensure all occupants are safe, as well as protect your property from severe damages caused by mother nature's wrath.

What is included in a disaster recovery plan?

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb offer free disaster recovery planning for any interested property owner. We call our branded disaster recovery plans Emergency Ready Profiles. The following is included in every disaster recovery plan that a SERVPRO professional will put together:

1) An actionable step-by-step checklist of what to do during a fire or water emergency. The checklist will ensure that every step is complete while prioritizing safety.

2) The ways to stay alert and be informed of an upcoming disaster. For example, when there is a severe weather alert, the property owner will want to listen to the local weather reports to take the necessary precautions to minimize damages.

3) A list of essential employees and emergency contacts. The list of essential employees for the property and the emergency contacts will ensure that everyone is in the loop on the disaster damages.

4) Utility contacts and locations of emergency shut-off switches/valves. Having a list of the utility contacts will ensure that all problems are quickly solved. You will also want diagrams and locations of emergency shut-off switches and valves so anyone can quickly shut off any type of leak.

5) A property overview with blueprints and pictures. The right disaster recovery plan will include all blueprints with pictures. The blueprints and pictures will help service crews navigate the property.

6) Building access for service and during an emergency. Knowing a precise location for the emergency service crews to enter and exit the building will ensure that the property is mitigated as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Wrapping up

We hope you enjoyed our guide on disaster recovery planning and now know the importance of having a disaster recovery plan before a disaster strikes. Disaster planning is necessary, and the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb can help develop a customized plan so you are prepared before disaster strikes!

Here at SERVPRO of South Cobb, we know that developing a disaster recovery plan will minimize the damages done by disasters when they strike. 

Remember that the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb offer a free disaster recovery planning service and are available 24/7 for emergency services. In addition, our disaster recovery plans are stored online to allow for easy accessibility during a disaster. Please contact us today regarding any questions on how we can help your property stay safe from water and fire damage.

The Reality of Appliance Fires: What to Do and How to Stay Safe

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO today for fire restoration services!

Appliance fires account for many home and business fires a year.

The use of household appliances is a regular part of most people's daily lives and plays an essential role in our day-to-day routines. Look around; you can find appliances in your home, office, and other buildings that you visit regularly.

Since appliances are regularly used, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have received numerous calls from property owners that have property damage after one of their appliances malfunctions and catches fire. The most common appliances we have seen malfunction are ovens, stoves, microwaves, toaster ovens, dishwashers, and clothes dryers.

We created the following blog post for a property owner who currently has appliance fire damage and is looking for fire restoration services. We understand that appliance fires can be hazardous and challenging to navigate for those involved. Read on to learn what to do and what not to do during an appliance fire situation, so you know how to stay safe!

How to avoid appliance fire damage

Appliance fires are more common than you might think. Appliances fires account for many home structure fires - and the number one appliance to cause fire damage is a stove or oven. As professionals who have seen appliance fire damage firsthand, we know many structural damages will occur during a property fire.

No matter what type of appliances you have in your home, it's essential that you're aware of the risks they pose - and how to avoid appliance fire damage altogether.

The number one reason that appliance fires occur is commonly due to an appliance being faulty or outdated. The best way to ensure that an appliance fire does not happen to your property is by checking the date of the appliance and ensuring that your appliances are properly maintained. Avoid using appliances in properties that have not been updated or serviced in at least ten years because the older an appliance is, the more likely an appliance fire will start.

What to do when there is an appliance fire? 

An appliance fire will come without warning. If you find yourself with an appliance on fire, it's essential not to use water to put it out; avoid using water because water conducts electricity, and the use of water increases the probability of electrocution.

The best way to put out an appliance fire is to unplug the appliance and then use a fire extinguisher. If there is no fire extinguisher present, you should use a chemical compound that will not conduct electricity. The two best chemical compounds suited for extinguishing an appliance fire are baking soda or salt.

After the fire is put out and cleared by the local fire department, you will want to contact a professional fire restoration company, like SERVPRO, which can help mitigate the damage done to the property. In addition, the right restoration company will work with your property's insurance company to ensure that you are compensated correctly for the damages.  

Wrapping up

We hope you enjoyed learning about appliance fires and the best ways to extinguish them. Appliance fires can occur at any time without notice, so always be proactive when preventing an appliance fire incident from happening in the first place.

Please remember to never use water in the case that you do have an appliance fire! As you can see, the SERVPRO fire restoration professionals always prioritize the safety of those who reside at a property damaged by fire first.

SERVPRO of South Cobb is available 24/7, 365 days a year, for any size fire damage emergency. Please contact us today if you have any further questions regarding appliance fire damage or need emergency assistance.

Pre Mitigation Documentation: 3 Best Ways to Track Property Damages

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for the best restoration services in Georgia!

Pre mitigation documentation will speed up the claims process and ensure the property is put back together in record time!

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have handled it all when it comes to property damage claims. Our IICRC certified firm specializes in fire/water/mold restoration and has found that the number one way to help the property owners we serve is to start with pre mitigation documentation.

In the following blog post, we will define what pre mitigation documentation is, the best three ways to document damages from a disaster, and what software we prefer to use for the pre mitigation documentation process.

What is pre mitigation documentation?

Pre mitigation documentation is the process of documenting damages to a property before mitigation efforts are started. Pre mitigation documentation is one of the most important steps in the restoration process because it helps prove liability, saves time and money on litigation, and helps speed up the claims process.

Pre mitigation documentation is an effective way to track what needs to be done for your home or business property to return to its original state. Pre mitigation documentation also gives a property owner peace of mind knowing that all damages have been tracked by the professionals handling the damage cleanup and restoration process.

Who is responsible for pre-mitigation documentation?

When it comes to pre mitigation documentation, we believe that both the property owner and restoration professionals should prioritize the pre mitigation documentation process. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb will always document the damages done to a property before performing any services.

A property owner should prioritize pre mitigation documentation to ensure that all records align with what the restoration professionals and the insurance company have agreed upon.

Pre mitigation documentation helps create a plan.

When it comes to property restoration, certified restoration professionals understand that no property damage is alike. Therefore, every disaster restoration job needs to start with a plan that starts with pre mitigation documentation followed by restoration services. Documenting the damages done to the property will help the restoration professionals scope the work needed to be done. 

Three ways to track pre mitigation damages

As we have already mentioned, pre mitigation documentation will occur before any restoration cleanup begins. We have found the following three ways best for pre mitigation documentation:

1. Notes: Notes allow for written documentation of damages and are an essential pre mitigation documentation method, as pictures may miss things or not show certain aspects that notes will convey.
2. Pictures and Videos: Pictures and videos offer a visual representation of what damages occurred to the property.
3. Spreadsheets: Part of the pre mitigation documentation needs to include an itemization on a spreadsheet so that all parties know what was damaged in the disaster. You can either use a spreadsheet or XactContents by Xactware.

The best pre mitigation documentation software

The disaster restoration professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb rely on Matterport scans to ensure that the pre- mitigation documentation happens quickly and thoroughly. Matterport provides a three-dimensional camera scan that creates a realistic image for the viewer. Insurance adjusters and estimators love Matterport scans because they can see the restoration damages from various viewpoints without going on-site.

Wrapping up

We hope you enjoyed learning about the importance of pre mitigation documentation. Pre mitigation documentation has proven to help the property damage claims process.

Please contact us today if you require emergency disaster restoration services throughout the greater Atlanta region. Our highly trained professionals are available 24/7, 365 days a year, for any questions or concerns.

SERVPRO of South Cobb prioritizes customer services above anything else; when you call us, you will receive a team of professionals who treat your property like their own.

Appliance Leak: Top 5 Appliances that Cause Water Damage

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the water damage restorers at SERVPRO today!

An appliance leak can cause serious issues for homeowners.

If you are reading this, there is a very good chance that you have recently experienced appliance leak damage to your property. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have first-hand mitigated and restored major water damages caused by appliance leaks.

If you suspect an appliance leak has caused your property's water damage, then it is important to know what appliance is responsible. In this blog post, we will be discussing appliance leaks and the five most common appliances that cause water damage.

Real-world scenario

In the past, the team at SERVPRO of South Cobb has received calls for water restoration services after a homeowner finds that their property has water damage from an appliance leak. The most common culprit of these water damages is a leaking refrigerator. A refrigerator leak may cause damage to the kitchen and basement flooding. 

When water damage is left to sit for a long period, our professionals will commonly find mold damage throughout the property. Fortunately, when a customer chooses to call us for services, we quickly dry out their property and rebuild. In the end, a homeowner will receive a new dream kitchen remodel and a property that was free of mold damage.

Which appliances are at the greatest risk for leaking?

The most common cause of an appliance leak is the result of age or overuse. But, as well, an appliance leak can occur when the appliance's water supply line is incorrectly installed.

How to avoid appliance leaks?

Appliance leaks are preventable through regular maintenance and subsequent repair of any damage that may have occurred to the appliance. If you believe that your appliance is malfunctioning, then it is best to shut off the power to the appliance and call the manufacturer of the appliance for repairs.

The top 5 appliances that cause water damage

As you have already learned, an appliance leak can lead to costly repairs and even major damages like mold infestation when not addressed quickly. The following list includes the top five appliances that the SERVPRO professionals have found to cause water damage:

1. Dishwasher leaks
2. Refrigerator leaks
3. Washing machine leaks
4. Air conditioner leaks
5. Water fountain leaks

What to do when you find an appliance leak?

No matter the size of the appliance leak, you will want to contact a reputable appliance repair company to come out and take a look at the malfunctioning appliance.

The appliance repair company will first try and determine the cause of the leak. Once they've identified what's wrong with the malfunctioning appliance, they can give you an estimate for how much repairs are going to cost.

If severe damages are done to the property from the leaking appliance, you will want to contact a water damage restoration company.

Why call SERVPRO?

When a property has water damage caused by an appliance leak, you will want to call the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb as soon as possible. SERVPRO of South Cobb is a highly reputable water restoration company located in Austell, Georgia.

When you choose to call SERVPRO for disaster restoration services, you will receive a team of IICRC certified professionals with experience handling any size of water damage. We take pride in our ability to deliver fast services without compromising quality.

SERVPRO of South Cobb is fully equipped with advanced water extraction equipment, air scrubbers, and dehumidifiers to ensure a property dried out in the fastest amount of time possible.

Please contact us today for any further questions on how we can help you restore your appliance leak "Like it never even happened."

4 Step Guide to Minimizing Water Damage Caused by Sprinkler Systems

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the fast responders at SERVPRO today!

Sprinkler systems can malfunction and disperse gallons of water in a commercial property.

We have all seen sprinkler systems before, but how often do we think about the water damage that sprinklers may cause? Sprinkler systems are a great way to keep a property safe when a fire breaks out. However, a sprinkler system can cause water damage when they malfunction from a false alert. 

The following blog post is for a commercial property owner or property manager whose property has recently been affected by water damage due to a malfunctioning sprinkler system. We will discuss four steps you can take to minimize the water damage caused by sprinklers to get your property back in operation quickly.

Case study of water damage left after a sprinkler system malfunction

In the fall of 2020, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb received a call from a property manager who manages an apartment complex in Smyrna, Georgia. During the initial call, they let us know that their property has been damaged by a malfunctioning sprinkler system and needed us to perform commercial water damage restoration services. 

Within an hour after our call, we had a crew at their property ready to respond. The majority of the damages that our professionals found were damaged drywall and flooring. Unfortunately, the property also had a few water-damaged oriental rugs and computers. The property manager was happy to find out that we offer oriental rug cleaning and can potentially restore electronics damaged by water. 

Due to our extensive drying techniques, the property was dry within five days, allowing us to move forward with the reconstruction portion of the project. Within two weeks, the property was fully operational, "Like it Never Even Happened." 

How water sprinkler systems are designed

Commercial sprinkler systems are an important part of any property. A commercial sprinkler system consists of multiple sprinkler heads that release water to extinguish fires. In most cases, the water that gets released from the commercial sprinkler system has sat for an extended period and will appear as a grayish-black color.

The good thing about commercial sprinkler systems is that not all sprinklers within the system will be released at once because only the sprinklers in the direct area that trigger the water release will be affected. 

4 steps to minimize sprinkler system water damage

A property owner will want to act quickly when gallons of water are released inside their commercial property. The following steps are designed to minimize sprinkler system water damage.

Step One: Immediately turn off the water supply line of the sprinkler system. Ask the building engineer or reference the property's blueprints if you are not sure of the whereabouts of the location of the sprinkler system shut-off valve. 

Step Two: Contact your sprinkler repair company. The sprinkler repair company will be able to assess where in their network of pipes or valves are responsible for releasing water. 

Step Three: Contact your insurance provider to start the claims process. When calling your insurance provider, make sure you have documented proof of the damages that occurred to the property. Your insurance adjuster may ask for video or pictures to show all that was damaged. 

Step Four: Contact a reliable commercial water restoration company. When choosing the restoration company you want to work with, you need to make sure that they are an IICRC certified firm and have the personnel to handle any size water damage disaster. The right restoration company will respond quickly and start extracting the excess water in the property. 

Wrapping up 

We hope that this blog post helped you understand the steps needed to minimize water damage caused by a sprinkler system malfunction. When it comes to water damage in Smyrna, Georgia, you can rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb for quality restoration services. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb is available 24/7, 365 days a year, so feel free to contact us at any time for any size water damage disaster.

3 Tips for Quickly Repairing Water Damaged Hardwood Floors

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers hardwood floor water damage restoration!

A property with hardwood flooring is never safe from water damage.

Water damage can be a devastating event for any homeowner. Not only does water damage create an unpleasant environment, but it also means that water has damaged your hardwood floors. The good news is there are some simple steps you can take to repair water-damaged hardwood floors and get them looking like new again! In this blog post, we will go over the top 3 tips for quickly repairing water-damaged hardwood floors.

Causes of hardwood floor water damage

It is unfortunate that water damage can happen to anyone and will be very disappointing when it damages beautiful hardwood floors. When excess water gets on your hardwood floors, it will create water stains and possibly warp the wood. Hardwood water restoration is a challenging project that requires special care to save the hardwood flooring from having to be removed.

The most common causes of hardwood flooring water damage will result from pipe bursts or appliance leaks. These water-related problems can be difficult to detect and may not happen right away. It is best to check your water heater, kitchen sink, dishwasher, or any other water source often for leaks!

Hardwood floor drying

In most cases, hardwood will soak up any water and appear dry. To save the hardwood flooring, the best course of action will be to properly place a dehumidifier and fans to remove all excess water. Properly placed fans paired with a dehumidifier will work in conjunction with one another to help move air particles into the air and remove all excess moisture.

The only way to be certain that the hardwood floors are completely dry will be by using a moisture meter. A moisture meter will measure water content in the material. The hardwood will be dry when the moisture reading is below 8%.

The 3 Tips for quick hardwood floor water repairs

1) Contact your homeowner's insurance company at the first sign of hardwood floor water damage. Quickly contacting your insurance provider will start the claims process so you can get your property back to normal as soon as possible. Your insurance adjuster will likely recommend that you take preloss pictures and videos for documentation purposes during the initial call. An insurance adjuster may also recommend making a spreadsheet that includes a detailed list of all damaged items.

2) Remove salvageable items that are on top of the hardwood wood floors as soon as possible. Anytime water damage strikes, you will want to try to salvage as many items as you can. The best thing you can do is remove all salvageable items to an area of the property that wasn't damaged.

3) Contact a professional water damage restoration company to handle repairs

No matter what the cause of the hardwood floor water damage, it should be handled by water restoration professionals. The IICRC has trained water restoration professionals to adequately dry a property through extensive drying techniques. Water damage restoration should never be attempted as a DIY project; it will likely result in secondary damages.

Hardwood floors with mold damage

Mold will likely develop on and under hardwood surfaces that were wet for too long. When hardwood shows indications of mold, then the best course of action will be to remove the hardwood flooring completely and install new flooring.

Wrapping up

We hope you enjoyed learning about water-damaged hardwood floors. For any water damage in your home, you should consider contacting the water restoration professional at SERVPRO of South Cobb to help.

Our IICRC certified professionals have gone through extensive training to remove all standing water and dry out any remaining moisture with advanced drying techniques.

Contact us today!

3 Must-Know Tips for Siding Storm Damage Repair

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the SERVPRO storm restoration professionals today!

Thunderstorms, high wind speeds, and hail are a threat to your home's siding. Use the following tips after storm damage occurs.

Has your property experienced siding storm damage recently? If so, then this blog post is for you! In the following post, we will be going over three tips for siding repair to help make the process easier.

Siding storm damage can lead to water damage

Our professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb are primarily known for their water restoration service in Atlanta and have seen many causes of water damage from siding damage. When your home siding is damaged, it is susceptible to have water enter in and cause water damage to interior insulation and drywall. To avoid unwanted water damage, a homeowner must act fast at the first sign of siding damage to avoid additional issues.

Not only is siding damage susceptible to water, but it also leaves you with an unattractive home. If a storm has damaged your siding and you need repair or replacement, SERVPRO of South Cobb can help! We offer siding restoration services completed by professionals who will make sure the job gets done right!

Siding storm damage can be complicated.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb understand how complicated it can be to navigate siding damage after a storm passes. When a home has suffered from siding storm damage trying to find and install new siding to match the rest of your home is going to be the biggest challenge. 

3 Tips when handling siding repair

1) Get in contact with your homeowner's insurance company 

Shortly after any siding damage has damaged your home, you should contact your insurance company. They will work with you to determine if your policy covers the storm damage.

If your insurance company does cover the siding storm damage, you may also be happy to find out that your insurance will cover a full siding replacement.

2) Contact a local siding manufacturer

As we mentioned earlier, finding matching siding is going to be the biggest challenge in navigating siding storm damage. To help speed up the restoration process when dealing with siding storm damage, you should contact a local siding manufacturer; they can help match the type of siding installed on your home.

2) Contact siding restoration professionals ASAP 

Contact a reliable restoration company after the siding storm damage has occurred. The right team of restoration professionals will know how to quickly mitigate and restore all exterior damages. They may even offer a temporary fix; for example, the professionals at SERVPRO will put a tarp over all damaged siding to ensure no secondary damages occur.

Secondary damages can include structural damages caused by mold or wood rot. To further protect a home from secondary damages, the restoration professionals may also board up windows or doors damaged during the storm.

The best siding storm damage team in Atlanta

The siding storm damage specialists at SERVPRO of South Cobb are the best in Atlanta for siding repair work and property clean-up after a storm. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the most efficient siding solutions, as well as being sensitive to your budget constraints. We can even help you with your homeowner's insurance claim!

When you choose to hire SERVPRO of South Cobb, you will be granted a team of IICRC certified professionals that have been trained to mitigate any size disaster. SERVPRO of South Cobb is independently owned by Rick Northen, who prioritizes two things:

1. Customer satisfaction
2. Quality workmanship

These two attributes are what separates SERVPRO of South Cobb from every other restoration company in Atlanta.

Contact us today for further questions on our siding storm damage company. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year.

#1 Reason To Call Insurance Estimating Pros for Restoration Repairs

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for an elaborate insurance estimate.

Insurance estimators are professionals who specialize in the process of estimating repairs for an insurance claim. 

The SERVPRO insurance estimators work to determine how much it would take for a company or individual to replace their property after a certain event. Did you know that the property restoration industry is one of the most competitive industries? The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have made themselves invaluable by providing accurate insurance estimates that can be used as evidence during an insurance claim. In this blog post, we will explore the number one reason why you should hire insurance estimating professionals for restoration services!

When to call for professional insurance estimating services?

The best time to call for insurance estimating services is right after a property has undergone a fire/water/mold disaster. Choosing to call a restoration contractor that does not specialize in insurance estimating is a big mistake because they can miss multiple line items that will grant you more money back from your claim. Therefore, when choosing a contractor for a restoration project, you will want to choose a company that understands insurance estimating. 

You want to provide accurate estimates for your insurance company in the case of insurance claims. The number one reason to hire an insurance estimator is to provide an estimate that can also be used as evidence to help support a claim. 

Insurance estimating professionals will be there to support you if your insurance company denies a request. Insurance claim specialists will deny a line item in some instances because they don't want to cover certain costs. Insurance estimating professionals will have the proof and the knowledge to back up why the cost of repairs is estimated the way it was. 

Professional insurance estimating software 

Insurance estimating professionals across the United States can agree that Xactimate by Xactware is the best insurance estimating software available. The professionals at SERVPRO have relied on Xactimate for insurance estimating for many years. It is a simple insurance estimating software that will create an estimate with real-time pricing and other essential data, such as the cost to remove debris or replace carpeting.

Xactimate offers desktop and online versions as well as various apps making it easy to generate estimates quickly and on the go. For example, the insurance estimators at SERVPRO often use the online version of Xactimate to calculate costs without needing access to their office computer. 

Xactimate integrates with other tools like Matterport and Eagleview to allow for the ease of generating quotes. Matterport is a type of software that takes 3D scans of a property. The 3D scan will be kept in the Xactimate file and will be used by the insurance estimating professional as a reference point.

Eagleview is another piece of software that integrates with Xactimate. Eagleview is commonly used when a property has roof damages and needs restoration services. 

Insurance estimating training 

If you have read this blog post this far, it is possible that you are interested in insurance estimating. For further information and training, you should contact a representative at Xactware. Currently, there are multiple Xactimate training courses available online. If you can not afford Xactimate training, there are also youtube resources online to further your education. 

Contact SERVPRO for insurance estimates 

Countless customers have called SERVPRO of South Cobb throughout the greater Atlanta area when looking for disaster recovery. When you contact SERVPRO for a restoration project, you will be granted a team of professionals that pride themselves on providing fast, quality services. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb has multiple designated insurance estimators that have gone through extensive training by Xactware. Contact us today for more information on how we can help you get your home insurance claim quickly processed.

3 Essential Calls When A Leak Causes Damages to Your Neighbors Unit

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

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It is all too common to see a multi-tenant complex with water damage caused by a single unit.

You may be reading this blog post because you are currently in a situation where your Atlanta apartment is the one that has caused water damage to neighboring units and is now curious to know what the best course of action is to proceed. In this blog post, we will be answering common questions we receive during a multi-unit water damage situation and the 3 most important phone calls to make.

The three calls to make

Commercial water damage can cause thousands of dollars worth of damages. During any size commercial water damage, there are three points of contact that need to be reached out to ASAP:

1. Property management/Landlord
2. Renters insurance company
3. Restoration Company

Call your property management company when there is water damage.

A commercial property owner needs to be the first to know when water damage happens at their property. They may have close connections with a preferred restoration company for water mitigation services and a contact to proceed with an investigation. 

The property management company should first focus on doing what we call "damage control." Damage control will start with the building engineer at the property; they will start shutting off the main power and any water supply that contributed to the leak.

It is important to have your property management company's number saved in an area that is easily accessible for when a disaster strikes. Now would be a good time to find out who your property management company is if you are not sure. 

Call your renter's insurance company when there is water damage

When a leak causes water damage to your unit and your neighbors unit, call your renters insurance immediately to let them know what happened. You will likely be liable for the water damage if the leak was caused in your unit.

It will be good to get video and photo proof of the damage caused to your unit and the surrounding units to make the insurance claim process easier. As well, you should speak to all tenants affected by the water damage to keep them in the loop.

Call a reliable restoration company

When water damage strikes, you need to have an IICRC certified team on call that you know will treat your property as if it were their own. The first thing you need to do when searching for the right restoration company is to look at what past customers are saying about their experience. Google reviews will be a great place to check for past customer experiences.

The most nationally recognized restoration company that customers can always count on is SERVPRO. SERVPRO has been providing restoration services to the greater Atlanta since 1967. Each franchise is independently owned and operated but corporate gives extensive training to ensure consistency.

Once the restoration company you choose arrives on-site, they will start by extracting as much of the standing water that is present. The entire commercial restoration process will depend on the amount of damage present to the multiple units.

Minimize future commercial water damage with a SERVPRO ERP

SERVPRO of South Cobb offers a free service called an Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP) for all residential and commercial properties throughout the greater Atlanta area. An ERP is designed to minimize property damage by planning for when damage strikes. The uniquely designed ERP will indicate emergency shut-off valves and the most important numbers for a property owner to call in the middle of a disaster.

Contact us today for a free ERP or if you are currently in a water damage situation that has also affected a neighbor's unit!

Attic Fire: 3 Tips to Protect Your Attic From Fire Damage

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

Call the professionals at SERVPRO after an attic fire is put out!

An attic fire can happen to any homeowner!

The U.S. Fire Administration estimates 10,000 residential building attic fires are reported to U.S. fire departments each year. However, even though this number seems low, an attic fire will still leave any property owner with severe destruction. 

Attics are an easy place for fires to spread due to excess insulation that is commonly stored in attic space. During an attic fire, insulation will act as kindling, causing the fire to quickly spread throughout the attic space.

The professionals at SERVPRO have restored many homes after a quick-burning attic fire. Whenever they go to a fire damage job scene, they have to note what the cause of the fire damage loss was. In this blog post, we will go over three of the top causes of attic fires and tips to protect an attic from a fire.

The best way to protect a home from fire damage

The number one best way to protect against severe attic fire damage is to have one of the two types of smoke alarms in your home (ideally in each room). Smoke alarms are the best early warning system for detecting smoke from a fire before it becomes too intense to escape safely.

If you don't already have them installed, we recommend taking steps today to install working alarms on every floor of your home. If you do have them installed, you should test to see if they are still working and change the batteries if necessary.

What is a home attic?

An attic is an unfinished space in a house, often used for storage or as living quarters. Attics are usually located under the roof and have sloped ceilings with little to no natural light coming through them.

Three causes of attic fires with prevention tips

1) Electrical wiring: Wiring in attics often lacks sufficient insulation. Wiring with poor insulation is more likely to fail or short-circuit in high temperatures. When an electrical wire short circuits, it will produce sparks, igniting the insulation or any other nearby combustible materials.

Attic fire prevention tip: Ensure your attic wiring is inspected by a licensed professional annually for wear and tear. It is best to get any needed repairs taken care of ASAP to prevent unwanted electrical fires in the attic.

2) HVAC systems: HVAC systems can cause attic fire damage when debris and dust begin to build up in the HVAC ducts. Any debris can be ignited by the furnace or air conditioner fan, then cause a fire in the attic.

Attic fire prevention tip: Professionally clean out your HVAC ducts regularly to ensure there isn't any build-up of combustible materials.

3) Lightning strike: A lightning strike can cause an attic fire when the roof of a home is directly struck by lightning. A lightning strike can also damage any wiring in the attic.

Attic fire prevention tip: Verify your roof has an adequate grounding system for protection against lightning strikes and other power surges that could cause an attic fire. 

Final thoughts

We hope you enjoyed learning about the top three causes of attic fires and tips to protect against them. If you are a homeowner, it is essential to ensure that the attic space is regularly cleaned out and free from any potentially flammable materials such as excess insulation, clothing, or boxes that could catch fire.

If you are in a situation and your attic is on fire, you need to immediately call 911 before calling the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb. In any fire damage situation, your safety should be the priority. You can trust the SERVPRO professionals when it comes to restoring your property to its original state.

Our team of IICRC certified professionals are on call 24-hours a day for emergency water/fire/mold damage restoration services for residential and commercial properties! Contact us today for more information about our disaster response services near you!

3 Major Causes For When A Home Needs An Ozone Treatment

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

An ozone treatment will occur in a home that has smoke damage.

Professional ozone treatments are a great way to tackle unwanted odors.

This post will discuss the benefits of a home ozone treatment and cases when a home may need to be treated. Ozone treatments include releasing a colorless gas that helps purify and disinfect the air by oxidizing odors. Ozone treatments have proven to be one of the best ways to eliminate bacteria and other substances in a home's air environment.

The power of an ozone treatment

Ozone treatments are one of the most effective methods used by restoration professionals for odor removal. Ozone treatments are great when a smell is hard to tackle and can't be easily removed with common household cleaners and air fresheners. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb will show up with ozone machines upon a homeowner request or for these three common reasons:

1. When a home has recently undergone fire damage
2. When there is mold present
3. When a home has dead body odors

All the IICRC certified professionals at SERVPRO have an ozone machine ready in the back of their trucks to tackle unwanted odors.

Ozone treatments during fire restoration

During an home electrical fire or any other fire damage situation, a homeowner will be left with smoke and soot damage. Ozone treatments are often used to eliminate the smoke smell from a house before it is inhabited again.

SERVPRO professionals have gone through extensive training to strategically place an ozone machine in a way that will cover the majority of a home and make it breathable for homeowners.

Ozone treatments for mold remediation

Mold growth thrives in closed-in spaces with high humidity levels, such as basements or bathrooms where moisture collects. When there is mold damage to insulation, drywall, or other materials that contain organic material such as wood or carpet, IICRC certified professionals will use ozone machines in conjunction with their services. Ozone can eliminate the musty smell of mold from materials while cleaning them concurrently.

The ozone process for mold remediation has three main benefits:

• It does not require harsh chemicals.
• Musty mold odors will be eliminated.
• All stagnant air will be refreshed.

Ozone treatments for dead body odors

Dead bodies, including animal and human carcasses, require an ozone treatment. The professionals at SERVPRO have been to many bio cleanup jobs where a dead body has sat for days.

A dead body found after a few days has typically begun decomposing into liquids and gases by the time it is discovered. The ozone treatment will remove these fluids and add fresh air back into the room by eliminating the nasty air particles caused by bacteria present in blood spills and other bodily fluids.

SERVPRO ozone generators

We hope you enjoyed learning about ozone treatments and the common cause for when our professionals will show up with an ozone generator.

In summary, when you call SERVPRO of South Cobb for fire damage, mold damage, or bio restoration, one of our professionals will show up with an ozone generator. Our ozone generators are capable of emitting ozone in large quantities to sanitize the air environment.

It is best to have an ozone treatment performed professionally rather than try to perform the treatment on your own. Ozone is known to be dangerous in high concentrations and needs to be properly vented and regulated. 

The professionals at SERVPRO know how to handle ozone treatment equipment properly and will only turn on the device when it is safe and after all hazardous materials have been cleaned up.

Contact us today if you have any further questions about our ozone treatment process or if you need restoration services. SERVPRO of South Cobb is available 24/7 365 for any size disaster.

Will Insurance Cover A Hail Damage Claim in Mableton, GA?

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the fast-acting hail damage professionals at SERVPRO today!

Living in a hail-prone area, you need to know how to identify and get your hail damage covered.

As a homeowner in Mableton, you may be wondering if your homeowner's insurance will cover hail damage to your property. Not all hail damage claims are approved, and many factors come into play when considering whether or not an insurance company will pay for damages done by hail. In this blog post, we'll go over the types of damages hail can cause as well as what is typically covered in a homeowners policy.

The power of hail

Hail is often a part of heavy and unexpected storms, and hail balls of ice can do severe damage to your house. Some hail damage is noticeable, such as shattered glass or a dented car. The minor, unnoticed hail damage, on the other hand, must be identified with a trained eye. To assess the severity of the damage and how to proceed with the immediate repairs, you'll require a hail damage inspection.

7 places to check after a hailstorm: 

1. Look for dents, cracks, and holes in your home's siding. 
2. Examine the downspouts & gutters for dents. Hailstorm often leaves small dents in metal gutters and downspouts.
3. Check all window screens for tears or holes. 
4. Inspect all outdoor furniture. Plastic and wood yard furniture can be cracked or damaged by severe hail. 
5. Inspect your mailbox by searching for dents and cracks.
6. Look for dings, dents, and cracks in the casing and window sills. 
7. Look for cracks in any window glass.

Consider adding hail damage to your insurance policy.

When you are shopping for homeowners insurance, you need to think about paying more to have any hail damage added to your plan. You will want to analyze the exact location where you reside to see if there are patterns of hail storms happening in that area more often than others. 

Be aware that some insurance policies are more likely to limit their hail damage coverage depending on if hail damages a high percentage of properties in your area.

If you find the perfect coverage for you, but hail damage is not covered, you should consider purchasing a separate hail coverage in addition to your existing policy. Having hail coverage will be vital if you live in an area with high amounts of hailstorms.

What does homeowners insurance consider hail damage?

When you file a new claim, your adjuster will start by reviewing the type of coverage you have on your property, including your liability coverages. An insurance adjuster will consider several factors when determining whether or not hail damage is considered covered.

Homeowners should get their property inspected for damages within 30 days after the damages occur to get reimbursed for repairs or replacement costs. If you are unsure about what is considered covered, contact your agent before reporting anything as damaged, but typically homeowners insurance considers hail damage to be any of the following:

• Roofs and their underlayment
• Walls, siding, gutters, downspouts, and other exterior components.
• Windows with breakage from hailstones.
• Damage from hailstones that penetrated the interior of your home
• Hail damage that leads to a ceiling leak 

Include the following information in your hail damage claim.

To quickly get your hail damage claim approved, you need to file a claim with the right information about how the storm occurred, along with any pictures or video evidence from where it took place. The proper documentation will help your homeowner's insurance adjuster determine the severity of the hail damage and help them arrive at an approval decision.

SERVPRO is ready to help!

Hail damage is inevitable to happen in Mableton, GA. A hail storm can severely affect your home's roof and other exterior coverings, as well as other personal belongings. While hailstorms can be damaging, the extent of the damage varies greatly. 

No matter what extent of hail damage your property has recently gone through, the storm damage professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb are ready on call to act quickly.

When dealing with hail damage, you need to hire restoration professionals that have dealt with many hail damage claims before. SERVPRO is the most reliable option for you when you want your home and everyday life to be normal again after you have suffered hail damage.

Feel free to contact us at any time for any questions regarding any size damage. Once we receive your call, we will send out a team of IICRC certified professionals to help mitigate and restore your property with integrity backing our name.

5 Great Ways To Minimize Flash Flood Damage in Mableton GA

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO storm team is ready for any size disaster!

Flash flood damage is one of the most frequent and costly hazards in the United States. 

The SERVPRO professionals have gotten many calls for flash flood property damage for the neighborhoods along Nickajack Creek in Mableton. We understand that flash floods happen quickly and are hard to predict. 

This post is intended for any Mableton homeowner that wants to know how they can protect their property from flash flood damage or needs flood damage restoration services. 

What are flash floods?

Flash flooding can be the result of many scenarios but is often the result of heavy rainfall. Those that live along the Nickajack creek will experience flash flooding when the creek rises. A raised watershed can block roadways or cause property flood damage. 

Not all flash floods are the same. Flash flooding can happen suddenly and, surprisingly, without any apparent signs of rain. Flash floods are caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Excessive rain – up to 6 hours after precipitation or within minutes of it.
• Thunderstorms, tropical storms, and hurricanes all produce slow-moving, long-duration flooding.
• Failure of a dam.
• Rainfall or snowmelt that exceeds the capacity of sewage systems and drainage pipes.

Common areas that are prone to flash flood damage?

Rivers, urban areas, coastlines, and dry creek beds are all prone to flash flooding. Generally, creek and river floods occur as river basins fill too rapidly and water overflows the rivers. Even if they are comparatively far away from water, properties constructed on land below sea level are highly vulnerable.

What is the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning?

When flooding is inevitable or already occurring, a flood warning is given. However, when conditions are favorable for floods, a flood watch is issued. It's not a confirmation that floods will occur, rather a possibility. So, make sure to differentiate between the two before taking suitable preventive measures listed below.  

The 5 Ways To Minimise Flash Flood Property Damage 

For those that live near Nickajack Creek, there might be nothing you can do to avoid flooding, but there are steps you may take to minimize damage to the interior of your house:

1. Install flood barriers and keep sandbags nearby.
2. Seal your basement windows and cracks in foundations.
3. Improve drainage around your home.
4. Install a sump pump, flood detection system, and water detectors.
5. Regularly clear debris from drains and clean gutters and downspouts. 

Flood water classified as Category 3 water damage

When your property experiences flood damage from a flash flood, you need to know that insurance will classify the property damage as a category 3 water damage, which is also known as "black water." Black water is the most severe form of water damage and necessitates immediate action to avoid significant health hazards. 

Properties that have category 3 water damages will have highly contaminated water in their property that may contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other dangerous substances.  

Category three water damage can result from sewage, flooding from seawater, rising water from streams or rivers, ground surface water, and other polluted water that has entered or impacted the indoor environment. It is always best to hire a team of IICRC certified professionals when your Mableton property experiences any category of water damage. 

Call SERVPRO for flood restoration services.

This post discussed what a flash flood is, how it can impact your property, and ways to minimize potential flood damage. You can count on the team at SERVPRO of South Cobb when your property does experience flood damage.  

Throughout the greater Atlanta area, SERVPRO of south Cobb has built a reputation as a renowned company, who has been serving clients since 1967. Our team is fully equipped with the necessary tools and certifications to handle any Mableton flood restoration job. 

We truly understand the extent of damage floods can cause to a home or a business, and we know how devastating it can be to deal with it. That's why our team is ready to provide you with experts' assistance 24/7, no matter what. When you call SERVPRO, you can guarantee that your damaged property will be quickly restored to a pre-water damage state. Contact us today to speak with a flood restoration professional!

Top 5 Reasons to Install a Smoke Detector in Your Garage

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

We are prepared for any size disaster!

Garage fires are common in metro Atlanta.

It's always good to be proactive about safety and prevention. As a homeowner, you want to do what is best for your family, and that includes installing a smoke detector in your garage. When it comes to fires, they can happen anywhere - even the place you least expect them! In this blog post, we will talk about some of the most common reasons why garages catch on fire and how some of these fires are started, so you can better protect yourself from danger.

Does your garage contain combustible items?

It is common for a garage to contain combustible items like gas, oil, and paint. These items can also contain hazardous elements like ethanol or acetone that make them potentially dangerous to store in a garage. You must be aware of the fire hazards present in your garage so you can take measures to prevent fires from occurring there at all.

Consider the following before storing any combustible items:

• Clean out your garage so it's free of any clutter that may catch on fire easily; this includes items like oily rags, paint cans, and gas containers. Removing excess debris will also make it easier for firefighters in case there is a fire emergency!
• Install smoke detectors where they're not blocked by anything else, such as doors or windows, because these are more difficult to reach if they have trouble with mobility due to age.
• Install fire extinguishers in the garage as a precautionary measure. Fire extinguishers should be mounted on walls or high shelves, and out of reach from children.
• Clean up any spilled flammable liquids to prevent accidental ignition. Consider having spill containment products in your garage, so any spills can be contained before they turn into major problems!
• If you use gasoline for household purposes, purchase only one gallon at a time and store it in tightly sealed containers with no more than two gallons total capacity. It is best to keep gasoline stored outside of the home if possible and away from anything else combustible such as dry leaves or grass. If you end up storing gasoline in the house, never place them near heat sources such as furnaces or electric space heaters.

Top 5 reasons why you need to install a garage smoke detector

1. Smoke detectors alert you before you smell smoke, giving you time to get to safety and call for help.
2. They are inexpensive and easy to install with the proper mounting bracket (they come in packages of two).
3. A smoke detector can last up to ten years on average before being replaced.
4. Smoke detectors reduce property loss.
5. May save on homeowners insurance when you install recommended smoke detectors.

Where to place the garage smoke detector?

The best location for a garage smoke detector is at least twelve inches from the floor at ceiling level and away from direct sunlight. When shopping for a garage smoke detector, you should consider getting one that has carbon monoxide detection.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause death. Vehicle exhaust can give off carbon monoxide, which is why it's essential to have a garage smoke detector with carbon monoxide detection.

Final thoughts on garage smoke detectors

We hope you learned the importance of installing a garage smoke detector. Although it is known that smoke detectors save lives, it is equally important to keep your garage free of clutter and anything that can easily catch fire. Also, make sure to leave plenty of space for ventilation so air is not unnecessarily trapped in your garage; installing one or more exhaust fans to increase circulation within the room will help tremendously. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb wants our Metro Atlanta residents to stay safe from fire damage. You can count on our IICRC certified team in the case that your garage has experienced a fire disaster.

In greater Atlanta, SERVPRO is well known for its high-quality customer service and honest professionals. We know how devastating a fire disaster can be, and that is why we want to be there for you every step of the way.

Wind Damage in Austell, Georgia: Is It Covered By Insurance?

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of South Cobb for wind damage repairs!

Wind damage in Austell affects many property owners each year.

Windstorms are natural occurrences that we all have to deal with; however, wind damage in Austell is not. When the wind becomes too strong, and it damages your Austell Georgia home, you may be wondering if the damage will be covered by insurance or not. 

In this blog post, we will help answer some of your questions about what's considered wind damage in Austell, Georgia, and how much coverage you can expect from the insurance company for wind type of events.

Austell, GA, is known for its occasional wind damage.

There is no ambiguity regarding the drastic weather forecasts when it comes to Austell, Georgia and the risk of wind damage in Austell is much higher than the Georgia average and the national average. 

Within the last 60 years, Austell has experienced more than 2000 extreme thunderstorm winds and more than 3000 extreme events of hail, strong wind, and winter storms. Therefore, it is not surprising that property loss from heavy winds and hail is one of the leading causes of homeowners' insurance claims amongst Austell, Georgia. 

Is wind damage in Austell covered by homeowners insurance?

Homeowners insurance is put in place to protect your homes and belongings from various types of weather damage, such as wind damage. Thus, homeowners insurance typically covers wind damage due to hail or windstorms. However, specific exclusions to these rules, such as damage to personal property within the homes by rain or snow, may not be covered. 

Still, if wind damage has caused rain or snow to enter your home, then the damage is most likely covered by homeowners insurance. Austell wind damage to roofs, fences, and windows of a home and the damage to property caused by fallen trees due to high-speed winds are also covered. Most insurance companies pay for tree removals from driveways and garages if these trees fell due to windstorms. 

What damage can wind do?

High-speed winds can lead to severe structural damage to the exterior and interior of your properties. The wind itself can lead to roof and exterior damage caused by loose shingles, displaced pipelines, blocked chimneys, and obstructed gutters and drainage systems. 

Sometimes the wind can cause uprooting trees or flying branches to land on the property and leading to storm damage. High wind speed paired with rain on an already damaged roof can cause them to start leaking and allow seepage to appear within the homes and result in significant structural damage.

Additionally, wind can cause damage to the windows and doors of commercial and personal property. Windstorms result in the breaking of windows and loosening of old doors. Broken tree branches or flying debris with high-speed winds can break windows, fences, chimneys, sheds, etc. 

How to identify roof wind damage

Mild wind damage typically begins to occur at a speed of 45mph or higher. To identify roof wind damage, you should start by thoroughly inspecting the surface of the roof for signs of any missing shingles or granules. 

The most apparent sign is entire shingles missing from the roof and finding them around your property. Furthermore, granules pile up within the roof's gutters, so look within your gutter system to find any missing granules. 

Peeled shingles can cause roofs to sustain more significant damage and result in leakage and water damage. In addition, wind can cause cracks in the roof's fascia and lead to water leakage problems. 

Lastly, a displaced chimney can be highly suggestive of extensive damage to your property due to high wind speeds. However, identifying the extent of the wind damage might not be possible without a professional to assist you. It is highly recommended that you seek consultation from a professional restoration company, such as SERVPRO, to analyze and restore the damage caused by wind. 

SERVPRO helps with wind damage insurance claims

The professional team at SERVPRO of South Cobb can analyze and pretest the damage caused by high-speed winds. When a SERVPRO hero arrives at the scene of a wind damage claim, they will give you a greater understanding of the claims that need to be made to the insurance company. 

SERVPRO is the ideal restoration company as it aims to help you and your property recover to its fullest. Our team ensures that our clients are always well-informed regarding the extent and costs of the damage reparation and recovery.

If you are currently experiencing wind damage to your property, contact SERVPRO of South Cobb by calling (770) 739-2355 or filling out our contact form on our contact page. A dispatcher will send an IICRC certified SERVPRO professional to come out and perform a thorough inspection and design a wind damage repair plan.

5 Common Causes of An Electrical Fire

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

We can help you restore your property after fire damage!

Is your home or business prone to an electrical fire?

Electrical fires are a source of great misery for both commercial and residential owners. There is sufficient data to support the fact that many fire damage claims result from faulty electrical wiring. 

It is imperative to know if your home or business can potentially be the harbor of a threatening fire outbreak. This post will answer questions regarding electrical fires and what to do when a fire outbreak occurs. 

How do electrical fires start? 

Electricity is our everyday staple that we need to run our daily lives. But we often tend to take it for granted, especially when there is no maintenance towards it. Electrical fires start due to poor conservation and upkeep. There needs to be a regular check on the electrical panels and electrical appliances to prevent an electrical fire. Even with the most thorough inspection, an electrical fire can still start from other reasons like a weather-related incident.  

The five reasons why

The number of hazards in residential areas took place in either bedroom, attics, or small spaces. It is essential to rule out the common causes of such an outbreak that can help you prevent such future fire damage. Here are some of them:

1) Light appliances

 Any component related to lamps or bulbs requires a specific wattage for it to operate on. If it is too great of a wattage being imparted to the light source, it can potentially lead to an outbreak of fire. So it is advised to double-check the recommended wattage on any light fixture to ensure it does not go above the recommended amount. Also, the use of paper or cloth to cover a lampshade can trigger a fire. 

2) Damaged appliances 

The maximum amount of fire-related accidents are owed to damaged appliances. It can either be a faulty cord or a switch. The heat from the device or appliance may catch carpeting or upholstery on fire. 

3) Extension cords

There is a lot of mistreatment associated with the use of extension cords. People tend to connect their appliances to an extension wire instead of the main switch. It does work temporarily, but it can potentially lead to a fire outbreak in the long run. 

4) Portable heaters

Portable heaters are easy to carry, and because they are lightweight, people tend to put them anywhere without considering the surface it is being placed on. The professionals at SERVPRO have seen fire damages from a portable heater placed on a bed, chair, or carpet. These appliances heat up fast and can ignite any surface near them.  

5) Old wires 

Faulty or old wiring can cause the fire to trigger, especially if the building has been an old construction. Old wiring cannot withstand a more significant electricity load and may lead to an uneventful fire outbreak. In modern-day circuitry, there are circuit breakers installed to alert when the electric load exceeds its capacity. But in old and faulty wiring cases, the breakers often do not work, leading to a fire outbreak.

How to put out an electrical fire?

1. Use a fire extinguisher 
2. Use a blanket to cover the fire, but this will only work if the fire is not as widespread. 
3. Use baking soda, but only if the fire is containable. 
4. Call the fire department.

Call SERVPRO for electrical fire damage restoration.

The occurrence of a fire is undoubtedly an unfortunate event. But you need to think of solutions to troubleshoot the problem at hand if it arises. SERVPRO of South Cobb provides IICRC trained professionals to restore your home or office to pre-fire condition quickly. 

In metro Atlanta, SERVPRO of South Cobb has built a name as one of the best restoration companies to provide quality customer service with superior quality. Contact us today, and we will make your electrical fire “Like it never even happened.”

7 Flood Prevention Tips For Commercial Properties

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the flood restoration professionals at SERVPRO for flood mitigation services.

Flooding is possible whenever there is heavy rainfall. 

Commercial buildings are highly vulnerable to expensive weather-related flood damage, just like any property. Flooding may be caused by heavy weather, such as blizzards, tornadoes, and hurricanes, depending on the season in Georgia. However, typical rainstorms are one of the most common reasons for flooding hazards. 

Did you know flooding accounts for billions in damage annually in the United States?

If you own or manage a commercial property and are concerned about flooding then, read on! We are about to dive into flood prevention tips to ensure your commercial property is ready to prevent all types of flooding. 

What causes commercial flooding?

Broken dams

When aging dams in Cobb County fail, they will unleash water on commercial and residential areas.

Storm surges

Rain, when it comes to floods, is not necessarily the only culprit. Hurricane-related storm surges.

Heavy rainfall

Inland floods are almost often caused by rain. Inland flooding is caused by consistent rainfall over many days or as a result of a short but heavy period of rainfall.

7 Commercial property flood prevention tips

1) Assess your commercial property

Inspect your commercial property for areas where floods could pose problems and then make the necessary repairs or modifications as required.

2) Improve landscaping

The elevation is your companion as it begins to rain. Landscape the building's exterior to allow water to flow down and away from its foundation. Make sure the downspouts are relocated just so water from the roof drains away from your property.

3) Flood-proof

Consider flood-proofing the foundation of the property if incoming water was a previous issue. Foundation flood-proofing gives your building protection from water damage caused by foundation leaks. Floodproofing entails adding a protective seal or shielding to your property's outside walls to prevent flood water from seeping in through the floor.

4) Remove debris 

Once every few months, it is essential to check and clean debris off the roof, downspouts, gutters and drains before a storm comes. Clearing debris will stop water from backing up into your property.

5) Install a sump pump

Installing a sump pump will go a long way when it comes to keeping your building dry. 

6) Board up doors and windows

If you know that there is a storm coming your way, protect your building from floodwaters, high winds, and flying debris by boarding your windows, doors, and other vulnerable spots. 

7) Get an Emergency Ready Profile 

No water damage is the best type of water damage. Don't sit and wait for a storm to hit to discover your commercial property's vulnerabilities. When you're unsure what to look for, consider hiring a specialist at SERVPRO for a free inspection of your property and an emergency ready profile to keep it safe from floods. 

Who to call for Flood Restoration

Whenever it comes to the causes of flooding, the simplest answer is heavy rains. No matter where in Cobb County you live, you are surrounded by infrastructure and systems designed to drain rainwater into appropriate reservoirs and basins. However, these systems get overwhelmed when it rains heavily, and the water does not drain as quickly as it should, causing backups and indoor flooding.

No flood damage is the best sort of flood damage. SERVPRO is a renowned company in the industry, and it has been serving customers in South Cobb since 1967. Contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb if you want your commercial property to quickly be in a pre-disaster state. Our team has invested in the top quality restoration equipment and certified professionals in restoring water damage. Contact us today!

5 Common Causes of An HVAC Water Leak in Powder Springs

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

The commercial water damage professionals will make it "Like it never even happened."

Learn what to do when your commercial HVAC system is leaking water

A leaking HVAC system could be a sign of something more serious. HVAC leaks have the ability to cause severe commercial water damage to your commercial property. A minor leak can result in future structural issues. 

To avoid a water damage insurance claim, you should keep your HVAC unit in good condition. Any dripping or pooling water around an indoor air conditioner should be dealt with as soon as possible. Make sure you turn off the air conditioner as soon as you notice a leak. In this post, we will go over the common causes of HVAC water leaks and how they can be prevented.

5 Common causes of an HVAC water leak

1) Dirty coil

One of the most frequent causes of evaporator coil malfunction is when it becomes dirty. When a coil is covered with dust, dirt, mold, and other debris, the water no longer tightly bonds to the coil's surface and drips to the ground. 

2) Clogged drain line

The most common cause of water dripping from your air conditioner into your property is a clogged condensate drain pipe.

Water will back up when the clogged drain line becomes clogged with dirt, sludge, mold, and dust. You will have to contact an HVAC company to unclog the clogged drain line. 

3) Damaged drain pan

The drain pan may be damaged or rusted, drain pans made of plastic or metal, and can corrode over time, allowing water to fall right through. In most cases, it is best to replace the pan.

4) A malfunctioning condensate pump 

Do you have your furnace and AC unit installed in your property? In this case, the water is pumped outside by a condensate pump. If the pump fails, then the water can no longer be pumped outside. The pump should be repaired or replaced.

5) Icy indoor coil

An iced-over indoor coil may also be a source of water pooling around an indoor HVAC unit. If an icy coil is left untreated, it will melt quickly, overflowing the drain pan and then pooling on the surface, creating water damage to the property.

How to prevent HVAC water leaks?

• Flush the drain line with an algaecide designed for HVAC systems once or twice a year to prevent mold growth. 
• Check that the pipe is aligned correctly, as it can be knocked out of place.
• Changing the filter prevents the system from overworking, resulting in the evaporator coils freezing and then defrosting, resulting in HVAC water leaks.
• Install a condensation pump.
• Clean and rinse the drain pan regularly and remove any soil or mold, 

Since HVAC inspection and repair can be troublesome for homeowners, it's a good idea to hire a local HVAC specialist.

Call SERVPRO for commercial water damage cleanup.

When it comes to commercial water damage, you want to call a company that is a leader in the water restoration industry. The professionals at SERVPRO offer top-to-the-line commercial water repair and are a well-known reputable company serving customers in Powder Springs, Georgia. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb offers 24/7 emergency services to ensure your everyday life becomes normal again after you have suffered any sort of commercial water damage.  

Contact us today, and we will show up quickly with state-of-the-art tools and the proper water restoration certifications to handle any size disaster.

5 Ways to keep your basement from flooding

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the flood mitigation professionals to dry out your basement!

Heavy rainfall can result in Smyrna basement flooding.

No one wants to come home to a flooded basement, but disasters don't come with a warning. When flooding occurs, your carpet will get soaked, and your furniture will be ruined. Worse of all, when left sitting, the basement will start to smell musty and damp.

You must be wondering how you could have prevented this from happening? How can you keep the water from overflowing your basement again? For those that live in flood-prone areas, this may be a source of considerable discomfort.

If you own a basement and are worried that it might become a victim of flooding when it rains heavily, then this is for you; read on, let's help you ease your worries.

How do storms cause basement flooding?

Basements are prone to flooding. Water seepage can flow through the foundation floor, windows, or walls from surface water sources or a storm sewer backup. In most cases in Georgia, we have seen groundwater flood the basement through a sump pump failure during a torrential downpour. Most sump pumps need electricity to function correctly. When a severe storm strikes a home's power supply, a sump pump will go out and leave a basement flooded. 

Disasters can't be prevented if we don't know the reasons behind them. When it comes to basement flooding, here are the most common causes: 

• Holes in the walls.
• Cracks in the foundation.
• Gaps in your window frames.
• Faulty or broken water pipes and sump pumps.
• Snow thaws, rainstorms. (any sort of moisture surrounding your home)

5 ways to prevent a basement flood

1. Downspouts should be positioned so that water is redirected at least four feet away from the foundation of your house. If this is not possible with your current downspouts, try getting new extensions for a quick and straightforward way to avoid standing water from gathering around your house. 
2. Install flood sensors in your basement. You can always count on them to keep the basement dry with advanced features like moisture detection along with immediate alert notifications.
3. Installation of a sump pump is an excellent idea for flood prevention, but only if they operate correctly. Sump pumps drain water from where it shouldn't be and then store it in a "sump basin."  
4. One promising way to prevent basement flooding is to ensure that water can't get in through the windows or foundation. Ensure that your windows are properly sealed; install good quality window covers and repair any flaws or cracks.
5. Make sure that gutter maintenance is done at least four times a year. Gutter maintenance is one of the most important things when it comes to flood prevention. Clean your gutters regularly and remove any debris, leaves, etc. 

What is flood mitigation?

In the restoration industry, mitigation is the method of minimizing the damage of a property due to the effects of a disaster. It applies to the 'clean-up' process following a natural disaster that leads to excess water.

Flood mitigation steps include:

1. Assessing the situation.
2. Removing water & moisture.
3. Sanitizing & removing any hazardous material.
4. Drying it to prevent any further damage and mold.

Flood mitigation also lowers the potential risk of flood damage to the structure and also decreases the severity of flood damage as it happens. It can include the purchase of flood insurance, the elevation of houses, installing a flood wall, etc.

What equipment is needed for flood mitigation?

Air movers and dehumidifiers have proven to be the best equipment to remove water and eliminate any moisture absorbed in surfaces. The flood mitigation process will typically take 3-5 days to achieve dry. To properly sanitize a flooded basement, you will need the help of a professional-grade antimicrobial. The professionals at SERVPRO prefer using the product Benefect. 

Who to call for basement flooding?

In the industry, SERVPRO is a renowned company, and it has been serving clients since 1967. The team at SERVPRO of South Cobb is fully equipped with state-of-the-art commercial equipment and has years of experience restoring water damage in no time.

To make your life easier, we will work with your insurer and develop a mitigation plan to restore the structure. Your basement will be restored to a pre-water state. Our goal is for it to be hard to tell that there was ever water damage, to begin with. We understand how devastating a flooded basement can be, which is why we provide emergency service 24/7. Contact us today!

How To Trace a Leak In The Ceiling With And Without Technology

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

You can locate a ceiling leak using a water hose!

Locate the source of a ceiling leak like the water damage pros

While the indications of a ceiling leak are typically apparent, finding the cause and making repairs is much more difficult. New ceiling leaks are obvious; the ceiling texture or drywall becomes wet, and water drips occur if the leak is severe. Sadly, the professionals at SERVPRO have found that more minor leaks will go undetected until the dampness eventually dries to a dark yellowish color, staining the ceiling finish.

Repeated leakage can damage the drywall's quality, causing texture or paint to peel and also the drywall to disintegrate from the joists. Although some overhead leaks have apparent sources, others may be difficult to pinpoint.

A leak in your property can seem minor at first, but it may result in significant secondary damage. The most important step to take when you have a water leak in your commercial property is to find the source. 

4 Steps in tracing a ceiling leak

Step 1) On your roof, look for holes in roof flashings and cracks within the rubber boots of your rooftop vents. Check for shingles that are broken, raised, or have holes in them.

Step 2) The next time it rains, follow the water drip to its highest point to find the leak's source. If you don't want to wait until the next rain, you can hose down the roof as you check for where the water drips. 

Step 3) For multiple-story properties with a ceiling leak, immediately check under the sink and search the cabinet underneath the above-story sink. An upper-floor bathroom may be the source of a ceiling leakage in a two-story commercial property.

Step 4) If you're unsure where the leak is coming from, wrap tissue paper all around the sink drain pipes. Then, fill the basin with water and then drain it.

The advanced method in locating the source of a ceiling leak

The timing of the leak is a good predictor of its source. Leaks that arise continuously indicate that the leak originates from inside the property. Leaks that only occur when it rains are an indicator of a roofing or exterior issue. 

First, look for the most common signs:

• Wet drywall.
• Dark stains on the ceiling.
• Mold growth.
• Peeling paint.

A professional water restoration company will perform a thorough inspection of your property using advanced technology like moisture meters and infrared cameras to locate the source of a leak. In most cases, a simple visual inspection will not reveal the source of the leak. 

Professional water leak inspection includes:

• Check for water loss on the roof's underside.
• Inspect the pipes for corrosion or damage.
• Inspection of wet drywall.
• Inspection of mold damage.

Avoid mold from a ceiling leak

Be mindful that mold growth can start in the first 24-48 hours after a leak occurs. When left untreated, mold will quickly spread and cause structural damage.  

To avoid mold damage:

• Dry the damaged area immediately.
• Remove all wet insulation.
• Throw away anything unsalvageable.
• Call SERVPRO for professional help!

Professional ceiling leak mitigation and restoration

No water damage is the best sort of water damage. In the industry, SERVPRO of South Cobb is a renowned company, and it has been serving customers in greater Atlanta since 1967. If you want your everyday life to be normal again after you have suffered damage from leaks in your ceilings, then the IICRC professionals at SERVPRO are the most reliable option for you. 

Our team is fully equipped and has the experience you are looking for ceiling damage repairs and restoring water damage. Contact us today; We offer 24/7 emergency services to our customers.

4 Types of Secondary Water Damages That Can Be Avoidable

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO properly place drying equipment to avoid secondary water damage!

Secondary water damages can be avoided when the right team of professionals arrives! 

Water damages are single-handedly any homeowner's worst nightmare. The only thing that can make matters worse is secondary water damage. Not only is it a nuisance to deal with it, but if left unchecked, it can cause some serious damage to your home or business. 

But no need to worry; with this quick guide on secondary water damage, you'll know how to handle the situation in no time!

What is Secondary Water Damage?

Secondary water damage is damage that occurs when primary water damage is left unattended to or is not properly resolved. Secondary water damage causes the water to seep deeper into your house's structure, and the more thorough the water infiltration, the worse the damages will be. 

Typically, with secondary water damage, the level of damage is unknown until professionally inspected. You need to have your property professionally inspected because the source and the exact cause of the damage may not be easy to discover, making it difficult to mitigate the water damage issue properly.

Noticing Secondary Water Damage

Believe it or not, secondary water damage is not that easy to spot, at least not right away. Secondary water damage usually works its way from the inside out; weeks or even months can pass before it begins to show any exterior signs. By this stage, substantial damage has already been done, and a reversal will require professional help.  

The most common markers of secondary water damage are:

• Rotted drywall
• Buckling floors
• Warped floors
• Peeled vinyl
• Black spots on the wall

4 Types of Secondary Water Damage

Secondary water damage takes form in several different types; it is best to be aware of them all so that you can quickly catch the tell-tale signs.

Type 1: Mold

Mold will typically appear within 24-48 hours of moisture entering a surface or material. Mold spores will keep growing the longer it is left unattended. 

Type 2: Corrosion

Corrosion occurs when structures made out of metal, such as pipes and rods, are subject to water damage. Metal materials left to rust can weaken metal structures and possibly cause more water damage when a pipe bursts. 

Type 3: Electrical Damage

If water damage spreads to electrical outlets, it can cause electrical damage. Not only can this cause appliance damage and electricity cuts, but it can also prove dangerous through electrical shocks.

Type 4: Rotting Wood 

Issues of rotting wood are once again caused by persistent exposure to water, and if these are not tended to then, this could affect the integrity of your house's structure. 

What causes secondary water damage?

While it's evident that secondary water damage is caused by persistent and continued exposure to water, it is more specifically the result of a lack of action than anything else. Water damage will progress to secondary water damage if a prompt response is not given when a water disaster strikes! Secondary water damage makes treatment both more time-consuming and difficult.  

The best course of action is to call a professional water restorer as soon as you notice any signs of ceiling water damage or water seeping through the floor. While you wait, try to investigate the source and see if a temporary fix can be found to prevent further secondary damages. Remember, the only real way to prevent secondary water damage is to ensure that the water is completely extracted and dried in the first place. 

So, there you have it, a quick and easy guide to all the basics of secondary water damage. Know you know what to look out for when your property undergoes water damage.

Contact us as soon as possible if your property has recently had water damage. When we receive your call, we will act quickly to avoid secondary water damage at your property!

The Key Differences Between Photoelectric & Ionization Smoke Detectors

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO for your fire restoration services!

Learn how to choose the right smoke detector for your property! 

The average property owner changes their smoke detectors' batteries at least twice a year and performs testing every month. But most have no idea what type of smoke detectors they have. Do you know what type of smoke alarms are present on your property? 

According to the National Fire Protection Association, over 354,000 household fires occur each year, resulting in an average of 2,600 casualties and over 11,000 injuries. The majority of these fire-related deaths happen in the middle of the night while people are asleep. 

It's easy to see how important well-placed & high-quality smoke detectors are.

There are two major types of smoke detectors - photoelectric and ionization. Each has a sensor that senses smoke and fire in various ways based on where the fire started. 

Understanding and recognizing the differences between the two types of smoke detectors will help you make the right decision in choosing the smoke alarms protecting your property.

Photoelectric vs. Ionization smoke detectors

When looking for the best smoke detector for your property, you'll probably come across a face-off between ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors. Both happen to have valuable features for property owners concerned about the danger of fire and smoke. When you look closely, though, you'll find that the devices function in quite different ways.

So, which alarm should you choose? Although both types of smoke detectors are designed to detect any type of fire, regardless of the cause, each has benefits and can provide an earlier warning than the other, based on the fire source. Let's see how these devices work.

Both photoelectric and ionization smoke detectors protect against fire damage, but which is better?

To understand this, let's look at the differences between the two:

• Photoelectric smoke detectors respond much quicker (15 to 50 mins faster) to smoldering fires that move slowly but create the most smoke - the element of household fires most responsible for casualties.
• Ionization smoke detectors respond to fast flame fires (fires with rapidly spreading flames) slightly quicker (30-90 seconds) than photoelectric alarms.

In all fire scenarios, regardless of material or type, a well-designed photoelectric alarm would typically outperform ionization alarms, according to the NFPA.

Key Difference:

When it comes to identifying small smoke particles, ionization smoke detectors are usually more sensitive than photoelectric smoke detectors. Photoelectric detectors are comparatively more sensitive to large smoke particles.

What are Photoelectric Smoke Detectors?

Photoelectric smoke detectors are designed to quickly detect changes caused by smoke in the intensity of light. It consists of a light-sensitive sensor and a light-emitting diode. Smoke enters the chamber and reflects light, triggering the alarm to go off. 

According to the National Fire Protection Association, these detectors are most efficient at sounding when a fire starts from a smoldering source, such as a lit cigarette that falls onto a couch cushion. Before a fire erupts, smoldering flames could fill a house with harmful gases.

Photoelectric smoke alarms are more responsive to smoldering fires.

Examples:

• Fires caused by burning clothes.
• Fires caused by burning furniture.

What are Ionization Smoke Detectors?

The design of ionization smoke detectors is highly sophisticated. They consist of a chamber made up of two electrically charged plates and a small bit of radioactive material, which ionizes the air that travels through them and causes a current. When smoke enters this chamber, The ion flow is interrupted, and the alarm goes off.

As compared to photoelectric smoke detectors, these give an earlier warning when it comes to smoke from flaming fires. 

Ionization smoke alarms are more responsive to flaming fires.

Examples:

• Kitchen grease fires.
• Fire from burning paper.

In certain fire cases, each type of smoke alarm's key feature can be vital to life protection. When it comes to home-fatal fires, be it day or night, a significant number of flaming fires and a large number of smoldering fires occur every year. You can't know what kind of fire you'll get in your house or when it'll happen. To be considered acceptable, smoke detector technology must work well in all forms of fires to provide residents an early fire warning, whether they are sleeping or awake.

The best solution 

Installing a combination of Ionization and Photoelectric smoke detectors will provide the safest possible environment for your family. It's too dangerous to pick one over the other, and there's no way of predicting what kind of fire hazard your home may face. Both ionization and photoelectric technologies are utilized in some smoke detectors. These smoke detectors are referred to as "dual" smoke detectors, and they are commonly available in home improvement shops and online, in a range of price points and from a variety of brands.

As a property owner, you want to do everything to take advantage of the life-saving smoke and fire warning technology available. 

Concluding thoughts

We hope you enjoyed learning about the two different types of fire detectors. Contact us today if you have any questions or need help installing a smoke alarm. SERVPRO of South Cobb specializes in fire mitigation services and is available 24/7. 

Learn The Common Causes of Water in An Elevator Shaft

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the commercial water restoration professionals today!

Severe damages can occur when water enters an elevator pit

One of the parts of a building that rarely comes to mind is the elevator pit. Well, at least not before an elevator begins to have problems. One of the major recurring issues that an elevator pit may have is water intruding into an elevator shaft. The consequences can be devastating if water seeps into an elevator shaft.

The steps you take after detecting water in your building's elevator shaft are essential for a smooth commercial restoration process. When you find standing water, you need to ensure the restoration process occurs immediately to minimize more severe hazards and damages to elevator equipment.

If you have an elevator in your building and feel worried that this situation might arise in the future, then this post is for you. Read on!

What is Elevator Pit Water Damage?

Elevator pit water damage is when water inevitably seeps into your elevator shaft; it ultimately gathers and collects on the pit floor if there is no system to drain it. Pools in the pit of your elevator will eventually result in a complete failure of the system and possibly lead to structural damage. To ensure no further damages occur, you can use waterproofing methods to eliminate water pools on and under the pit floor and then drain it to another location.

How does water get inside an elevator shaft?

Usually, when an area is exposed to heavy rainfall, leakage occurs. With that being said, water damage can happen at any time of the year. It is common for groundwater to find its way into the elevator pit. Another common cause for water in an elevator pit is when a pipe burst inside a property. 

When it comes to water in an elevator shaft, some of the causes are:

• Lack of floor drains and sump pumps.
• Cracks in foundation/walls
• Poor drainage
• Damage to the existing waterproofing system
• No waterproofing installed
• Old structure

Solving the source of the problem should be the immediate solution; adequately waterproofing the concrete in your elevator shaft is the first step to avoid future standing water inside an elevator pit.

It's unsafe to operate an elevator while there is water close to or inside the elevator shaft. Water can result in short circuits, potentially locking someone in the elevator cab or damaging the building's electrical system. First things first, do not try to fix anything on your own. You will need experts' help, consider the professionals at SERVPRO who are available 24/7.

Standing water in an elevator pit can lead to mold damage

Standing water could become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and a potential source for mold growth. Standing water will cause a building's environment to have higher levels of moisture, which is favorable for mold to grow. It is essential to remove all standing water to avoid mold growth in your elevator pit. 

How to remove water in an elevator pit

As we stated earlier, to ensure there's no corrosion on elevator components or important metal parts, it is essential to ensure that the standing water is removed as quickly as possible. It is best to call for help from water damage experts. 

The water restoration experts will remove the standing water with a water extraction system connected to a truck designed to hold many gallons of water. After the water is extracted, the professionals will spray a layer of antimicrobial and place the necessary dehumidifiers and air movers to avoid secondary water damages.

Contact SERVPRO for water restoration services! 

SERVPRO is a well-known company in the restoration industry, and it has been serving clients since 1967. The team at SERVPRO of South Cobb is fully equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and has all the necessary IICRC certifications to restore any size water damage in no time. 

Once you call us, we can guarantee that your elevator shaft will be restored to a pre-damage state. It will be hard to tell that there was ever standing water. At SERVPRO, we understand how difficult such situations can be; that's why we provide 24/7 emergency services. Contact us today!

4 Steps to Mitigate Water Seeping Through The Floor

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the water damage professionals for all emergency services!

Understand why standing water is dangerous inside your home

It is always devastating when you realize that your home has suffered from water damage. Not only is it emotionally draining, but if left untreated, it can cause structural issues to your home and result in expensive repairs. It is essential to avoid secondary water damages, so call experts at SERVPRO of South Cobb to amend the problem before it is too late. Whether that water damage results from water seeping through the floor or a ceiling that has collapsed, our IICRC certified experts got you covered! 

How can water damage occur in your home?

There are plenty of ways water can enter your home and start damaging your property. Here are some of the most common ways water enters your home!

• The most common way that water can enter a property is through concrete flooring cracks. Excess amounts of water under your basement floor can create immense pressure. Extra pressure will lead to water entering your property through the cracks inside your home.
• Some standard construction methods leave space between the poured basement floor and the footer. Similar to the first way, water may find its way through these small spaces to the insides of your home.
• The hydrostatic pressure created by excess moisture in the soil can create cracks in the foundation walls and allow water to seep inside your home. 
• Additionally, leaking pipes can also cause water to come inside your home through walls and floor and may stand for days or even months if unnoticed. 
• Apart from leaking pipes, several drainage issues can cause water to seep up through the floor until they are repaired.

Why is standing water inside your home dangerous?

Now that you know how water can seep inside your home through the floor and/or walls, let's go over the dangers of leaving untreated water damages. 

• It can cause the loss of precious living space inside your home.
• It can cause structural damage to the property.
• Compression, bowing, and cracking of basement walls.
• It can devalue your home by mold growth.
• The living standard can deteriorate due to poor indoor air quality.
• It can cause several electrical issues.

Four steps on how SERVPRO mitigates water damages   

Once you discover signs of water seeping through the floor or other signs of water damage, it is highly recommended that you give experts at SERVPRO a call to help fix the problem. Once you contact us, we will use the following 4 steps to ensure the water damage issues are resolved.

Step 1: Find the origin of the leak

Before we start repairing anything, we need to examine the cause of the leak and why the water is seeping into your home. We will carefully examine your house and look for signs for any possible water damage to see why the water is seeping inside your home. We use top-of-the-line equipment, and our professionals have several years of experience in water damage repair!

Step 2: Stopping the leak

After a thorough investigation and examination, once we find the origin of the leak, we design a plan to stop the leak. For leaks that are caused by plumbing malfunctions, we will shut off all the water supply in your home and drain the excess water. Once all the water has been drained from the plumbing system, we will continue by fixing the leak, so water does not damage the walls or floor again.

Step 3: Drying your home

Once the leak has been fixed, we start drying out your home and remove all standing water. Our goal is for you to quickly start living your everyday life back before the damages occurred. We will give you and your home insurance company a dry report to ensure that your property has completely dried out. 

Step 4: Preventing future damages  

Once our work is complete, we will advise you on preventing future water damage from happening again. There are many precautionary measures you can take to avoid future water damages. Every home is different and has different areas for potential water damages, and we want to ensure you are well prepared!

Concluding thoughts

SERVPRO of South Cobb can restore all water damage to flooring and help you get back to your normal routine as soon as possible. Contact us at the first sign of water seeping through walls or flooring so our certified experts can mitigate the issue as quickly as possible!

4 Steps To Repair A Water Damaged Ceiling

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Water damages can cause the ceiling of your home to collapse!

Learn how the professionals repair a water damaged ceiling 

Water can be disastrous when it comes in contact with the drywall that makes up your ceilings and interior walls. Enough water damage can cause a ceiling to fall apart or collapse. However, there is no need to stress once you call water damage professionals. SERVPRO of South Cobb can repair ceilings and walls that have been affected by water damage. They have the required tools and experience for any size water damage repair. Learn how the professionals suggest you handle water damage to the ceiling of your home in 4 simple steps!

Step 1: Inspect your home for damages

It’s crucial to conduct regular inspections to detect any signs of water or mold damage in your household. If there is peeling or blistered paint on your home ceiling, it may be a clear indication of water damage. When water damage signs are visibly seen, there is a chance that there are hidden water damages that can lead to structural mold growth. However, identifying the root quickly and trusting a local restoration company can immediately prevent the issue from becoming more significant. 

Step 2: Detect the source of the water 

It’s quite challenging to identify the water leakage source when the water has traveled to an unexpected area. However, depending on your home's layout, ceiling water damage can start from either plumbing malfunctions or roof damage. If the water damage is directly below the roof, it could be due to an ice dam or issues with a chimney. Clogged gutters can also result in water damage. 

Clear indications of ceiling water damage: 

•  The ceiling drywall is wet 
•  Dark water spots on the ceiling

When you notice water damage, it is essential to contact a property restoration professional who can assist you in this situation and detect the water damage and find a solution; otherwise, it could lead to more severe repairs. During the initial inspection, it is essential to ensure no mold has grown. 

Step 3: Dry and remove the damaged ceiling

The wet area needs to be dried properly to prevent unhealthy mold growth. Water damage professionals will strategically place drying equipment to ensure the ceiling is dried properly.  Once the water damage is mitigated, it’s important to replace and remove the ceiling materials that are severely damaged. Depending on the category of water damage, personal protective equipment will be worn before starting. If water damage has occurred in the attic, you need to make sure to replace and remove any wet or damp insulation. 

Step 4: Repair the damaged ceiling

Once the water mitigation is complete, the home can be put back together. Exact drywall measurement cuts will be taken to ensure a proper drywall fit on the home of your ceiling.  

Call the professionals at SERVPRO

There are numerous advantages to hiring professional water restorers. Firstly the water damage company has the proper equipment and certified experts to perform the water damage job. A water damage company will make sure that your home is in good hands and everything is conducted professionally. If you think that water damages are a task that can be done on your own, you’re wrong; it can result in more damages. 

SERVPRO is the property restoration company that businesses, schools, and families trust. Trust us when you have water damage or need further guidance. Our team consists of IICRC certified experts and professionals that are here to assist you 24 hours a day! We are just one call away!

The Best Way to Protect a Fireplace Mantel From Too Much Heat Exposure

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

A wood mantel is more prone to smoke and soot damage from a fireplace fire

A fireplace mantel is an aesthetically pleasing piece of furniture. However, it has to be protected from the fire that it frames. 

A fireplace mantel comes with detailed installation instructions that you should study before installing it. The best place to install a mantel will be at least 12 inches away from the top of the fireplace. Depending on your mantle's material type will dictate how prone it is to fire damage and how you clean a damaged mantle. 

If you are considering buying a new mantel, we suggest that you avoid wood materials. Wood mantels are prone to more soot and smoke damage. In this blog post, we will go over fireplace safety tips, the best way to protect your fireplace mantel, and mantle soot cleaning.  

A fireplace fire can cause damage to your mantel

A fireplace fire can cause damage to your mantle. Before we go over the best ways to keep your mantle safe from fire damage, it is essential to go through general tips to prevent your fireplace fire from getting out of control. As professionals in the fire damage restoration field, we have found that the following five tips have saved many homeowners from fire outbreaks:

5 Fireplace Safety Tips 

1. It's essential to install a carbon monoxide and smoke detector in the room with the fireplace and replace batteries regularly.
2. Have a fire extinguisher nearby.
3. The fireplace area should be clear of extra fire food, flammable materials, and paper.
4. A fire should never be left unattended.
5. A screen should be close enough to the flame so that embers and sparks don't leave the fireplace.

Protect your mantel with a protective shield

A mantel protector heat shield will help to protect the fireplace mantels from undergoing too much heat. There are many brands of heat shields. The heat shield you choose should be customized and cut to be the perfect fit for your fireplace. Some heat shields will come with a black oxide finish to protect combustible surfaces from heat stress. A mantel heat shield will be between the bottom of your mantle and the top of your fireplace. Your heat shield will prevent the mantel from discoloration and exposure to too much heat.

DIY Mantel Soot Cleaning 

The fireplace mantel maintenance is essential to preserve its appearance and last for a more extended period. Depending on the material will determine the best method for mantel cleaning. 

For example, when cleaning a stone mantel, you will want to use a soap solution and a soft brush to avoid damaging the surface. Cleaning your stone mantel with a soft brush will remove stains on it caused by smoke and soot.

Unlike stone mantels, you will want to avoid using water-based solvents when cleaning a wood mantel. The best way to clean soot off a wood mantel will be with an oil-based solution and a soft cloth. 

Call the professionals to clean tough soot

Cleaning the fireplace is exceptionally crucial to prevent yourself from hazards. The fireplace and chimney should be cleaned annually and inspected for potential hazards like creosote can cause a fire to get out of control. 

When your property has had a fire on the premises, then smoke damage must be dealt with professionally. Experts will remove and clean the lingering burnt smell that has spread through your property. The unpredictable nature of smoke and soot damage will result in different professional soot cleaning methods to eliminate the smoke smell. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb at (770) 739-2355 is ready to help local homeowners with fire damage. They have the advanced equipment and IICRC certified professionals on call to turn the loss around and make it "Like it never even happened."

How Much Does Mold Devalue a Home?

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

Mold can cause your home to lose its value!

Mold can permanently affect the value of your home

The sad part about mold damage is that it can have a permanent adverse effect on your property's value. Even if you do your best to fix the mold problem in your property, there is a high chance that your property's value decreases because of it. It is essential to hire mold damage professionals to help you out with the mold problem in your home or workplace to minimize any further loss or damage.

What Is Mold?

Mold is a prevalent problem that affects many properties across the country. The nasty fungi can quickly infest poorly constructed and older homes, especially if they are near any sources of moisture. These organisms include Stachybotrys, chartarum, and black mold, which continuously spread all around the property due to its shedding microscopic spores. Not only do these spores help reproduce mold continually, but they also cause an infestation in the property. 

SERVPRO will help you get rid of mold from your home or workplace so that you can have a healthier environment and a more robust structure.

How Mold Hurts The Value Of Your Property

Not only does mold harm the structure of the property, but it also hurts its value. The loss in value is so significant that a home can lose up to 50% of its value.  

Well, it should not be much of a surprise to anyone. Would you be willing to buy a house, no matter the size, if it is severely infested with mold? Would you be ready to live in a place that has damage to the structure and may create home insurance problems? The reasonable answer would be no. So, when there is little to no demand for a property, the value automatically devalues. 

On the other hand, if you keep the property in perfect condition, repair water damage quickly, you can still maintain your home's value.

Other Problems With Mold

Here are some more issues that you are likely to face because of a mold infestation in your home or workplace:

Mold Removal Becomes Costlier Over Time

Mold spreads quickly due to its spores flying all around the property, especially if there has been some previous water damage or you live near a source of a lot of moisture. The expenditure on the damage restoration will include the following expenses:

• Unpleasant odor removal
• Visible mold spores removal
• Peeling wallpaper
• Dark and nasty spots on your walls

With all these signs and the costs of fixing them, the overall expenditure increases drastically.

Mold Can Spread Without You Even Realizing

Another unfortunate thing about mold is that it spreads rapidly, often without even realizing it. If you think there has been some recent water damage that was not fixed by professionals such as those at SERVPRO, you must look out for any mold signs. Typical places for mold growth include growth on walls, in cupboards, under the floor, and all over other surfaces around the property. Spores can even start attaching to clothes and other fabrics in your house, continually damaging them.

Choose The Right Mold Damage Restoration Company

When it comes to the best mold damage restoration company, you need the one you can trust and have complete peace of mind. Our team of certified mold damage experts has the required knowledge and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the best quality work in as little time as possible. So, what are you waiting for? Give us a call and let the specialist at SERVPRO of South Cobb help you out with your mold problem!

Call us at: (770) 739-2355.

What is SERVPRO?

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

Wearhouse at SERVPRO of South Cobb

SERVPRO is a leading franchisor for water, fire, and mold cleanup

History of SERVPRO Corporate

SERVPRO initially started as a painting business in Sacramento, California, in 1967, under Ted and Doris Issacson. The couple soon evolved the company - with their knowledge and background in cleaning and restoration - into a prominent cleaning and damage-restoration franchise. 

In 1988, the SERVPRO (with 647 franchises) relocated its corporate headquarters from Sacramento to Gallatin, Tennessee, to make themselves within reach of 50% of the U.S. population. The company's new headquarters became a significant contributor to its success; In 1991, the Nashville Business Journal named SERVPRO Industries, LLC, the Small Business of the Year. The company moved ahead with the same monumental growth, thus selling the 1000th franchise in 2002.

With its glorious history, outstanding, par excellence growth, and high goals, SERVPRO is striving to become the world's best cleaning and restoration company in the years to come!

SERVPRO Services 

SERVPRO offers a wide array of cleaning services but truly specializes in Water, Fire, and Mold Restoration. 

What is Water Damage Restoration?

Water destruction can be a troublesome and unfortunate situation for homeowners, from leaking pipes to overflowing sinks and toilets, leaking appliances to flooding from fire fighting hoses. If not managed on an immediate basis, the overflow of water can become a costly problem resulting in electrical hazards and structural damage, and cause mold growth.  

Water damage can happen instantly; reach out to our team of certified technicians for a fast water mitigation process. We promise to be at your side and provide you with the best guidance, all while quickly fixing the problem for you.

What is Fire Damage Repair and Restoration?

A small fire or a large blazing fire in your backyard, the after-effects of a fire can be disturbing and traumatic. Even though a fire is put out, the damages do not stop right there. Fire damage can leave one without a safe shelter or make a thriving business merely turn into debris and ruins. While we know this is difficult to cope with emotionally and financially, our SERVPRO fire restoration crew can help you get out of this situation with our prompt and quick service.

The soot and smoke produced in a fire can further lead to the collapse and weakening of the building and its components. Therefore, we first perform a soot damage test with a chemical sponge to know how much soot is left at the fire site. 

Our fire damage restoration process includes building stabilization, removing fire-damaged material, cleaning and deodorizing with state of the art cleaning and sanitation equipment, and complete reconstruction.

Fire can cause significant, long-lasting damages. You can count on our team as we smoothly get you through the fire restoration process. Our specialist teams ensure to get you or your business back to normal operations as soon as possible as a way to help you deal with the catastrophe. 

What is Mold Remediation and Restoration?

Mold not only causes rot and decay to your homes and business, but it will also lower its potential value. 

Mold usually builds up in damp and humid areas. When the total amount of the mold crosses the normal levels, it can become destructive for your home.

SERVPRO of South cobb uses advanced techniques and equipment to perform all types of mold remediation - including dry rot to black, yellow, pink, and white molds. Our mold experts know the areas that have to be checked - bathroom, window frames, behind walls, attics, carpeting, basement, water-damaged mattresses - to track the spores and remove them. 

We are available to assist you if you are looking for a mold inspection team or wanting mold removal- we are at your service 24/7.

Who owns SERVPRO of South Cobb?

SERVPRO of South Cobb is a leading franchise owned by Rick Northen. SERVPRO specializes in restoration services related to fire, water, and mold damage. With over 50 years of combined experience, we feel pride in delivering quality, transparency, and efficiency to our customers. Quality customer service has been possible due to the untiring efforts of our trained, professional, and certified cleaners having years of field experience, providing cleaning services for domestic, commercial, and industrial sectors. 

We believe in using the latest environment-friendly cleaning supplies - because we care for you and our planet - which certainly makes us stand out from the rest.

We aim to provide hassle-free and seamless service to all our customers. We get many referrals and returning customers to us every time you search for restoration services!

Our services do not end here; we make sure to follow up with you to know if you are content and satisfied with our services. For us, leaving a happy customer is our top-most priority!

Call us at: (770) 739-2355.

Stopping Water From Running Down Outdoor Steps And Into The Basement

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Check your outdoor floor drain regularly to prevent basement flooding!

A Blocked Drain Can Lead to Water Intrusion 

An outdoor drain plays a different role from the ones inside your home. An outdoor drainage system will prevent water from running inside your home and causing water damage. A properly functioning outdoor drain is the reason why your home does not flood every time it rains. 

However, if the drain is blocked, it can cause severe water damage to your property. You must take the proper steps to prevent water from running down the stairwell and into your basement. This post will go over all actionable items to take when you notice standing water in the stairwell.

4 Steps To Prevent Outdoor Water Intrusions  

There are 4 steps you can take to prevent water from running down the stairwell into your basement. These actionable steps can help prevent future water damages and allow you to have some added protection to ensure low insurance premiums!

1) Make Sure That The Drain Remains Unclogged

The most common reason for standing water in the stairwell is a clogged drain. A drain can easily be covered with mud, leaves, grass, or even garbage. The SERVPRO professionals recommended regularly checking your outdoor drainage systems and for standing water in the stairwell. 

2) Install A Stairway Cover 

We know that this option may not be possible for all home designs, but you can install a stairway cover to protect the stairwell from the outdoor elements if possible. Typically we have seen homeowners install a metal hatchway or similar type of cover. Installing a stairway cover will help reduce rainwater from reaching your basement and stairwell drain cloggings. 

3) Inspect The Surroundings

In many cases, when inspecting a basement flood, we have determined that the reason is a flawed drainage system. For starters, a poor landscape drainage system will leave the stairwell drain to have to work harder because it will have to take on draining the rainwater and the water coming from the landscape runoff. Also, please pay attention to the gutter system and ensure that they are in proper working function. Water coming from roofs and downspouts can cause drainage issues and leave standing water in the stairwell.

4) Reinforce The Basement Door

Lastly, you can reinforce the basement door to ensure that none of the water from the stairwell gets inside your basement. Even if there is standing water in the stairwell, it will still not be able to come inside the basement, protecting you from basement flooding. 

How To Unclog An Outside Drain

If you find standing water in the stairwell is due to a clogged drain, you first need to assess the problem to make sure that it is not a simple fix like leaves covering the drainage system. If the problem seems to be more severe, it is best to call a professional plumber to come out and help. 

Basement Water Damage Professionals

If the problem persists and you notice water damage inside your home due to a defective drainage system, you need to contact IICRC certified professionals. SERVPRO of South Cobb are experts in water damage restoration and have partnered with the top Atlanta plumbers to ensure that there will no longer be standing water in the stairwell from a clogged drain. The sooner you call experts at SERVPRO, the greater the chances of preventing future water damages. 

Call us at: (770) 739-2355

Toilet Bubbling During Heavy Rain or Storm

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is one call away for water restoration services!

A home toilet bubbling during a storm may lead to water damages

After a storm or heavy rain, you might have noticed your toilet bubbling and gurgling. At first, a toilet bubbling may seem insignificant, but it can lead to a much bigger problem. Severe clogs and backups can cause a bubbling toilet. A small issue can be a clear sign of future plumbing problems and even toilet water spewing all over your house.

If you fear that a more significant problem might arise, or if that greater problem has already occurred, you need help from storm Damage specialists to help you out. In this blog post, you will learn the causes of toilet bubbles and what you need to do about it!

What causes a toilet to bubble

Suppose you recently noticed that your toilets are bubbling during or after heavy rainfall. In that case, you need to take some precautionary steps to avoid bigger problems. For starters, you can attempt to plunge the toilet to see if the toilet bubbles go away. If the toilet continues to bubble, you should ask your neighbors if they have the same issue. If they have toilet bubbles, then there may be a blockage in the sewer line. 

Typically, a toilet would start to bubble when there is too much water trying to drain through a restricted pipe. The restriction would most probably be due to excessive rainwater stuck in the sewer system. 

How A Bubbling Toilet Leads To Damages In The House 

If the problem is not in your house but the sewer system itself, you should call an Atlanta plumber ASAP. It will be essential that the sewer system is fixed as soon as possible to avoid the following 3 ways a bubbling toilet can lead to future damages to the house.

1) Exposure To Waste

The first issue caused by a blocked sewer system is that you will be exposed to all the waste build up inside your home. Sewage water damages need to be handled by water damage professionals to avoid exposure to toxins. 

2) Foul Smells

You will start noticing foul smells emitting from the drains. The extent of the foul smell will likely push you out of your own home. Air fresheners, plants, and other sources of pleasant odor would seize to work adequately to get the smell out. The SERVPRO professionals are available to help remove all the unwanted smells in no time!

3) Drain Field Failure

Lastly, a flawed sewer system leading to your toilet bubbling can cause the drain field to fail. The next thing you will see is the water and sewage backing up in your home. Your drainage system can get weaker, and you will notice that it takes considerable time for water to drain through sinks and bathtubs. You might also find standing water and damp spots near the drain field. 

With all of these problems, you need to call water mitigation professionals to avoid exposure to contaminants and pathogens. 

Why Choose SERVPRO For Water Damage Restoration

You can do little to prevent any of the mentioned events from happening, but you can call experts to help you get out of the mess. SERVPRO is a renowned name in the industry and has been serving customers since 1967. If you want life to be back to normal after damages by heavy rainfall or storms occur, SERVPRO is the most viable option for you.

With state-of-the-art equipment and years of experience, SERVPRO of South Cobb will restore all the water damage in little time and prevent further damages from occurring. The best part about hiring us is that we offer emergency services 24/7 to our customers and have specialists working around the clock. Better be safe than sorry; give us a call as soon as you notice something as little as a gurgling toilet, so we can prevent anything worse from happening. 

Call us at (770) 739-2355

5 SERVPRO Guidelines For Handling Suicide Cleanup

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Contact Us Today for Crime Scene and Trauma Cleaning Services!

SERVPRO Specializes in Suicide Cleanup Services in Atlanta 

Losing a loved one to suicide is an experience that we hope no one has to go through. A death in the family can turn every family member's world upside down. Knowing that they will never be able to hear that person's voice again can be very traumatic. When it comes to suicide, the team at SERVPRO wants the suicide clean up to be the last thing to have on their mind. We want to help any way we can in cleaning up the suicide scene so that those involved can focus on mourning the unexpected death. 

In this blog post, we will go over our guidelines to properly mitigate a biohazard from suicide. The topic of suicide is not a topic that we enjoy talking about, but we want our local Atlanta residents to know that there is a resource during traumatic events. 

5 SERVPRO Guidelines for Safe Suicide Cleaning 

It is best to always leave the cleaning to professionals due to the health hazards that come along with suicide cleanup. A dead body's bodily components can pose serious health threats such as HIV and hepatitis, and other viruses that are not necessarily apparent. Trained professionals know that it is vital to protect yourself from exposure to any biohazardous materials when cleaning after a suicide occurs. These following five guidelines are what the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb adhere to when performing suicide cleanup.  

1) Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE)

An industry-standard PPE includes coveralls, disposable gloves, respirators, safety shoes, and goggles.

2) Only use industry-standard cleaning products

SERVPRO only uses the top of the line cleaning products that are registered disinfectant products. Registered cleaning products have a broad spectrum to kill all pathogens and viruses. For safety precautions, it is always best to NEVER mix cleaning agents and follow the instructions written on the back of the container carefully.

3) Use biohazard containers

Contaminated materials need to be disposed of in marked biohazard bags that are securely closed. Biohazard waste management is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Only dispose of biohazard waste at locations that are registered with these regulating authorities.  

4) Disinfect all suicide cleaning equipment

In all suicide cleanup jobs, we will use a wide array of equipment, including mops, brooms, and buckets. All of the pieces of equipment used in a suicide cleanup should be effectively sanitized with a solution designed for killing viruses and pathogens. 

5) Seek medical attention if exposure occurs 

It is still possible to be exposed to blood from the suicide cleaning even with PPE. If this occurs, it is best to rinse the exposed areas and seek medical attention. 

SERVPRO Suicide Cleanup Division

SERVPRO of South Cobb specializes in crime scene cleanup and has helped thousands of families, property owners, and businesses handle suicide cleanup.  

All of our crew members here at SERVPRO have gone through extensive training to ensure that a home is properly disinfected from all biohazardous materials. SERVPRO is known in the industry as a leader in biohazard remediation.  

5 Reasons Why Firefighters Are Heroes And Deserve Recognition

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

We Are Faster to Any Size Disaster

Firefighters are heroes that do much more than fight fires; they give us the peace of mind that we are safe and protected from fires even when there is no present fire they are fighting. 

History of Firefighting Heroes

Since 1679 firefighters have been saving the lives of Americans. The first publicly funded fire department started in the city of Boston, Massachusetts. Through the years, their techniques have greatly enhanced saving the lives of thousands nationally each year. Americans around the country have massive amounts of respect for firefighters. But what makes a firefighter a hero? In this post, you will learn the five reasons why SERVPRO believes firefighters are heroes. 

The 5 Ways Firefighters Are Heroes? 

1. Firefighters are heroes because they inspire others
2. Firefighters are heroes because they run towards danger 
3. Firefighters are Heroes because they are scientists 
4. Firefighters are heroes because they are tenacious 
5. Firefighters are heroes because they contribute to the community

1. Firefighters Inspire Others

With Halloween right around the corner, it's hard not to think about all the costumes that little boys and girls choose to dress up as. Superheroes are known to be a popular costume amongst children. Outside of Wonder Woman, Spiderman, and Batman, we believe that firefighters are heroes without superpowers. Each year you will see children stop by your home in their plastic red firefighter hats. Why do you think that is? We believe that it is because firefighters have heroic traits that kids highly respect. Firefighters are heroes that are very inspirational. They willingly face new dangers every day. 

There is something to be said about a kid that dreams of becoming a firefighter. Fighting fire takes a special kind of person who is willing to put themselves second to save the life of others. You hear stories all the time about a firefighter running through burning buildings and cutting people out of cars after a car accident. Firefighters are heroes that experience mental and physical fatigue, causing Americans nationally to find them inspiring. 

2. Running Towards the Danger

Firefighters are heroes because they run towards danger. Fires and explosions will shake the nerves of the average individual, but not firefighters. A firefighter will put themselves in harm's way and run towards a fire or explosion. September 11, 2001, was a great example of how firefighters are heroes. 9/11 was a very significant event in American history where 343 firefighters died, saving the lives of others. The firefighters of New York were the first ones to reach the devastating scene on September 11. It is typical for firefighters to be one of the first officials to arrive at a fire or explosion scene. Fighting fire takes raw courage; like the 343 firefighters that died in 9/11, they know that there’s a chance that they might not go home. A famous quote from Marcus Aurelius that we find suiting for our national firefighters, “You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” 

3. Firefighters Are Scientists

Firefighters are heroes because they are scientists. There are different reasons why a fire might start, and not every fire begins the same way. Your local fire marshall will tell you that some home fires start when certain chemicals collide or an electrical wire malfunction. These two causes fall into one of the six known classes of fires.

The six different fire classes:

Class A – solids, such as paper, textiles, wood, plastics, and rubber 

Class B – flammable liquids, such as petrol, oil, and paint

Class C – flammable gases, such as propane, butane, and methane 

Class D – metals, such as aluminum, magnesium, and titanium

Class E – electrically energized equipment

Class F – cooking oils and fats

Each class of fire requires a different approach. Firefighters are heroes because they have to decipher which type of fire they’re dealing with quickly to put out the fire safely.

After the firefighting heroes subdue the hot flames, they will need to find out the fire's cause. Finding the cause of fire takes scientific knowledge of chemistry, physics, and engineering. With the collected information, the firefighter will be able to conclude the fire's origin and determine if the fire was an accident or arson. 

4. Firefighters Are Tenacious

Firefighters are heroes because they are tenacious. The typical firefighter will work a Kelly shift schedule. A Kelly shift schedule is a 9-day cycle where the firefighter works one 24-hour shift, followed by 24 hours off, then will work another 24-hour shift, followed by 24 hours off duty, then a final 24-hour shift occurs, followed by four consecutive days off duty. As you can see, firefighters work long hours and do not get the luxury of getting holidays or their birthdays off. Firefighters' never give up attitude allows us to be with our family during the holiday season safely. During the Coronavirus pandemic, the firefighting heroes were still working to keep us safe. 

5. Firefighters Contribute To The Community

Firefighters are heroes because they contribute to the community. Firefighters work long shifts to save the lives of others. In most cases, saving lives comes from preventing future fires from happening. A firefighter will install fire alarms, create fire regulations, and visit children in school to teach fire safety. 

Outside of preventing and fighting fires, firefighters will help when you’re hurt, stuck in a car after a car accident, or have fallen. Firefighters also have to be EMTs; part of the job description includes giving first aid and CPR to injured or ill people. In recent months firefighters have received many calls to aid sick coronavirus patients.  

Firefighters work tirelessly to ensure that all members of their community are safe, pets included. Your local fire department will receive multiple calls a year to rescue pets stuck in trees or a tight place.  

Thank You From SERVPRO  

SERVPRO of South Cobb wants to thank the firefighters of this nation. We hope you learned more about the history of firefighting and why we think firefighters are heroes. After your local fire department puts out the fire, SERVPRO will send out their fire restoration professionals to make the fire loss "Like it never even happened."

Call us at (770) 739-2355.

SERVPRO Asbestos Testing FAQ

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Cobb will help with asbestos abatement.

SERVPRO offers asbestos abatement testing for any property that was built before 1980. Asbestos testing ensures safety to individuals that are coming in direct contact with your property. 

How to test for asbestos?

To test for asbestos, we will take a sample of the material that may be of question. We will then send out the material to a SERVPRO partnered lab that will take a look at the material under a microscope using polarized light. The lab that we have partnered with will then send us a report if the material contains asbestos. 

What was asbestos used for?

Asbestos was a building material that was used before the 1980s. Asbestos was primarily used as a fire insulator. Asbestos can be found in flooring, insulation, pipe wrapping, drywall, and roof materials.  

What are the different types of asbestos?

Chrysotile is the most common type of asbestos that we see in home building materials. Other different types of asbestos are chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite. 

Why is asbestos harmful?

Asbestos causes health risks like mesothelioma and other forms of cancer. The United States government has regulated asbestos due to its cancer-causing properties. The 1930s is when asbestos started being used in home building materials. By 1978 the EPA began to study on a possible ban on the use of asbestos.  

Is asbestos dangerous if undisturbed?

In most cases, asbestos is safe if it is undisturbed. When it comes to flooring that contains asbestos, it is sometimes best to place new flooring on top rather than removing the asbestos flooring. The best thing to do is to avoid asbestos from entering the air.  

Is asbestos recognizable?

Asbestos is not easily recognizable due to its fiber size. At SERVPRO of South Cobb, we always get possible asbestos materials tested. 

What is asbestos popcorn ceiling?

Asbestos popcorn ceiling is easily recognizable because of its sprayed-on texture. When touched, it can turn into powder quickly. 

How much does it cost to test for asbestos?

The cost of asbestos abatement is determined by the job's size and time frame. When handling asbestos, we do not like to rush the process. We find it essential to ensure that all individuals who can potentially come in contact with asbestos are safe.  

How is asbestos removed?

Asbestos needs to be handled by a professional company with all the licenses to ensure that the job is being performed correctly. When a SERVPRO professional arrives on-site where asbestos has been detected, the proper containment and equipment will be used to ensure that all individuals are safe.

Why Hire SERVPRO For Asbestos removal?  

SERVPRO of South Cobb takes asbestos abatement very seriously. If you think about renovating your home, it is best to have your materials tested for asbestos.

Conclusion

SERVPRO of South Cobb offers more than restoration services. We want our Georgia locals to be safe from asbestos and other harmful airborne agents. We have a construction division that can rebuild and remodel after a loss occurs and offer the proper testing of your materials. Call us today if you are looking for a reputable asbestos abatement company that can handle any size disaster. 

More about Smyrna 

Call us at (770) 739-2355.

1 Important Reason To Remove Drywall After Water Damage

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

The team at SERVPRO is ready to dry any structure after water damage.

Drywall is relatively cheap regarding other interior construction materials. Drywall is composed of gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate), paper, and other compounds such as mica, clay, and resin. Because of the makeup of drywall, water exposure will quickly cause damage.

Being a well-known company in the restoration industry, we understand that water exposure to water is not a strong point for drywall. To save drywall after water damage, a few factors need to be taken into consideration.  

How does SERVPRO save drywall after water damage occurs?

In the case that the drywall only has a brief exposure to water for a short amount of time will make saving drywall much more manageable. The team at SERVPRO has saved drywall from splashes from an overflowing appliance. We know it is essential to act fast so that water is not absorbed into the drywall.

Small water damages are relatively easy to mitigate. If you have experienced as small water damage start by wiping down the wet areas immediately with towels and then point a fan at the affected drywall. We advise running a  fan for a couple of days on the affected drywall to ensure that it is dry. If you want to ensure that the area is dry, you can invest in a penetrating moisture meter. All you have to do is stick the two pins into the drywall and see that moisture levels are equal to the dryness of drywall on a non-affected area. 

When to remove wet drywall after water damage? 

When drywall is heavily soaked from either flooding or another severe incident, the gypsum in drywall will become visually saturated. You will notice that the drywall is ultimately damaged when the drywall looks deformed and saggy. In more severe cases where the affected drywall has sat for a while, you will notice that it has completely collapsed inward. 

Drywall is difficult to save after severe damage. When our technicians perform the most extensive drying techniques offered by the IICRC, the drywall will still not return to its original shape. We have found that it is best to remove and replace the drywall altogether to avoid a mess of crumbly drywall material. 

The Number 1 Reason To Remove Drywall After Water Damage Occurs

The main reason that we find it essential to remove drywall after water damage is to avoid mold contamination. At first, the wet drywall in your home or business may seem intact and fine, but it is best to call a water damage restoration company. Delaying the drying process will enhance the possibility of mold growth on the drywall. 

Drywall Mold 

Mold on drywall will typically show up as dark spotting or blotches on the wall's exterior. Mold growth can occur within 24 to 48 hours after the drywall has been affected by water damage. The trained technicians use an antimicrobial during any water damage and mold jobs to stop further mold growth. An antimicrobial like Benefect will prevent the mold from growing further but remember that once mold has penetrated below the surface into the porous gypsum material, it is better to remove and replace it by a certified mold remediation company. 

Although water damage can cause severe mold issues, we do have good news. Drywall is easy to remove and can be replaced with a few hours after the home structure has been dry. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb if your home or business has recently suffered from water damage. We are the go-to water damage company in Smyrna, Georgia. 

More about Smyrna. 

Call us at (770) 739-2355.

Commercial Smoke Alarm Maintenance Tips

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help restore your property when fire damage strikes.

It has proven that routine maintenance of smoke alarms saves lives. In this post, we will go over the importance of smoke alarms in commercial buildings.

Before we dive in, we ask to make sure that you check that your properties smoke alarms to ensure that they are all currently working. 

Are Smoke Alarms Required In Commercial Buildings? 

To simply answer this question is Yes. It is required that all commercial buildings have a fully functional smoke detector in each room and hallway of the commercial structure. The commercial smoke detectors will have a tag that shows when it was last maintained and the date on when the batteries were replaced.  

How does a Smoke detector detect a fire? 

The initial function of a smoke detector is to detect when a fire is present. There are two types of smoke detectors found in commercial buildings, photoelectric, and ionization. 

1) A photoelectric model smoke detector has a light source that goes into the sensing chamber. When smoke enters, it causes light to reflect onto the sensor, triggering the smoke alarm. These units are used best at detecting smoldering fires that start with heavy smoke. These types of alarms are best located in a bedroom or living room or family room.

2) An ionization model smoke detector uses radioactive material positioned between two electrically charged plates to ionize the air inside. The air creates a current flow between two plates, and when smoke disrupts the ion flow, the alarm will set off. These detectors respond quickly with smoke and flames. These types of smoke alarms are best located in a utility room or in a kitchen.

Top 5 Best brands for commercial fire alarm smoke detectors 

1. Honeywell
2. Edwards Signaling Solutions
3. Siemens Fire Safety Solutions
4. Tyco Fire Alarms
5. Bosch Fire Safety Solutions

These are the top five brands that we have seen used in the Metro Atlanta area. However, many other smoke detector brands are also highly rated. 

Did you know that smoke alarms should be checked monthly?

Commercial property owners need to make it a requirement to routinely check the property's smoke alarms once a month. It is an integral part of a fire safety plan. 

The National Fire Prevention Association  has provided us the following information for smoke alarms:

• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Simply press the test button to ensure that the alarm is working.
• Smoke alarms should be on the ceiling or high up on a wall.
• There are specifically designed smoke alarms for those individuals that are hard-of-hearing or deaf.
• Smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years.
• The technology that has been developed in today's commercial smoke alarms can quickly signal a multitude of fire conditions. 

Here is a Baker Mayfield smoke alarm commercial featuring Quarterback Baker Mayfield in the browns stadium trying to figure out where the smoke detector sound is located. If you notice the commercial smoke detector is in a great location, on the ceiling.  

In this post, we have included a few examples of how to maintain a smoke alarm and the two different types. Before we end this post we need to mention that it is also a good idea to review your fire safety plan and practice evacuation twice a year. Ensure that everyone in the commercial building knows the plan and knows where to meet outside. SERVPRO of South Cobb offers a free Emergency Ready Plan for the next time fire damage strikes. 

More about Smyrna 

Please call (770) 739-2355.

Who To Call for Flooding?

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

We are available 24/7 to service all water damage restoration emergencies

SERVPRO is available for all types of flood damages and has an on-call crew for Late Night Water Damage Mitigation

SERVPRO techs provide Atlanteans with water damage repair

Commercial and residential owners are susceptible to be affected by water damage. Water damage can result from a burst pipe in a restroom or a sink overflow in the kitchen. SERVPRO is one call away for fast cleanup performed to code, to ensure employees and customers are safe.

Are you in need of comprehensive water damage repair services in Atlanta? 

WHAT CAUSES BASEMENT FLOODING?

We have received the following calls as the result of basement flooding: 

1. Oversaturation of groundwater
2. Broken sump pumps
3. Storm drain backup
4. Burst pipes 
5. Leaking appliances/fixtures 

SERVPRO services cover everything from water extraction to structural and contents drying.

What NOT to do during a flooded basement?

• Do not flush an overflowing toilet. A toilet overflow indicates a possible plumbing issue, and flushing makes the problem worse.
• Do not handle dirty water on your own. Toilet water has microbes that are not safe to handle without proper personal protection equipment (PPE).
• Do not DIY plumbing repairs. It is best to have a certified plumbing professional service a broken pipe or clogged pipe.  

What TO DO during a flooded basement?

A flooded basement is one of the most frustrating things a property owner will endure. Following these three steps will help you navigate the situation:

STEP 1: CALL YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY.

Property insurance and renters insurance often requires special flood insurance for flooding caused by mother nature. Flood coverage is typically not covered by your regular policy. However, most insurance policies cover flood damage caused by appliance failure or a burst pipe.

You can count on SERVPRO to work directly with your insurance company throughout the water cleanup, extraction, and water removal process so that your claim goes as smoothly as possible. 

STEP 2: REMOVE IMPORTANT ITEMS.

Once it is safe to venture into the flooded basement, it is good to get all of your essential and sentimental items to a dry area. We recommend only removing objects that have been affected by clean water and not by any dirty water because contaminated water can carry pathogens that can be harmful to touch. 

STEP 3: CALL YOUR LOCAL SERVPRO TO CLEAN UP, SANITIZE, AND DEODORIZE.

Once water cleanup begins, remember to keep safety first. Do not use electronic devices that have come into contact with the water. When you call SERVPRO, you will be hiring trained professionals that specialize in water cleanup. All of our SERVPRO specialists have received the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC certification guarantees compliance with standards for professional water damage and flood damage restoration. 

Every single one of our SERVPRO trucks is equipped with water extraction, drying, and moisture testing equipment to handle any size damage. 

SERVPRO is here to help!

SERVPRO technicians use precise calculations to determine both the placement and proportion of their water damage equipment. There are many variables involved when handling water damage. We have seen every size disaster and are ready to handle anything that comes our way. Call SERVPRO of South Cobb today at  (770) 739-2355, and one of our technicians will arrive within four hours. 

What Damage Can Flash Floods Cause To Your Home or Business?

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Flash flooding will result in flood cuts to your home or business.

SERVPRO has the equipment to remove the water from when a flash flood passes through Smyrna, Georgia 

Flash Flood Water Removal

Georgia residents know that you do not necessarily have to live in a zone known for flooding to get hit with flood damage after a storm or hurricane. When your home or business encounters flash flooding that leaves your Smyrna home underwater, you can count on our highly trained mitigation and cleanup crew at SERVPRO to get the job done. 

Our advanced technology and proven methods for restoration have proven to be Smyrna's most reliable and trusting restoration company that is available 24/7 for emergency cleanup. 

Interior Water Damage  

Intense storms with heavy rainfall will create water channels that can infiltrate your interior, saturate your flooring, and cause water to get behind the walls. Most of the time, these damages result from malfunctioning gutters, cracks in the foundation, and broken windows.  

When a certified trained technician arrives on-site, we will not only clean up the water caused by the flood but also let you know where your home is susceptible to future potential flood damage. 

Flooding to any structure leaves a notable amount of damage, but our team at SERVPRO specializes in flash flood removal in Smyrna, leaving your property “Like it never even happened.”

How Can SERVPRO Clean Water Damages From Flash Floods?  

We use specialized drying equipment to help us address the restoration project, including: 

• A Truck-mounted extractor that allows for prompt water removal
• Moisture meters that enable us to find hidden pockets of moisture to avoid secondary damage
• Professional grade drying and dehumidification equipment to create an optimum environment to execute your flash flood removal project 

Wet Materials, What is considered Salvageable? 

During any flood loss event, it is likely that materials will need to be removed and dried if not thrown away. We want to clarify that not all of the interior contents to your property will be salvageable. Flood water is considered a category three water damage loss; this means that all of the damaged materials need to be removed and trashed. The reason that materials are categorized as a category three-loss is that there are potential microbes on the damaged contents that can be harmful. 

Flood Damage Demolition

When the SERVPRO of South Cobb crew arrives on the scene at a Smyrna property that has suffered from flood damage, they will start by evaluating the extent of the damage then perform demolition on the property by removing all wet materials. In most cases, flood cuts to the drywall are going to be necessary. A flood cut will allow the structure to dry properly and will remove the unsalvageable drywall. Flood cuts also will enable us to use drying equipment to properly address the moisture hidden behind walls and in tight corners. 

After the storm, flash flood removal services are available 24/7 for our Smyrna residents. When your home undergoes a flood, you can call SERVPRO of South Cobb. We can have a crew at your location within hours after calling us at (770) 739-2355.

More about Smyrna 

Is It A Good Idea To Invest In A DIY Mold Test?

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for a professional mold inspection

How To Test For Mold DIY 

You may have recently found mold in the basement of your Smyrna home, and now you are looking to test the mold yourself before hiring a professional mold remediation company. Before you purchase a DIY mold test home depot, we want to let you know that we have found that most home test kits are notorious for providing inaccurate readings. 

Drawbacks of DIY Mold Test

Mold spores are everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Spores can enter the home in a variety of different ways. Every time you open the door to your home, mold is coming through the air. Mold spores also enter in ventilation systems. 

Most of the Georgia homes are safe from mold damage because the environment is unsuitable for the spores. Mold likes warm damp areas to live and reproduce. Typical mold in a home can contain enough spores in the air to trigger a false positive when using a DIY mold test kit. Mold is only an issue when it forms into colonies, usually due to excess moisture in a Smyrna home.

How To Test Home For Mold

If you suspect that your home has been damaged by mold, then it is best to hire professional mold inspection and testing by a trained environmental hygienist. A skilled environmental hygienist will perform an air quality test for mold to dictate if your home has a severe mold problem. An air mold test will allow the homeowner to know what kind of mold is present in the home. If the environmental hygienist finds a mold problem inside your home, then it will be best to consult with a mold damage cleanup company to develop a plan of action to get rid of the mold. 

Benefits of Quality Mold Cleanup

A black mold test performed by the environmental hygienist is just the start of a mold mitigation company that will help Smyrna homeowners who have been affected by mold. An experienced company like SERVPRO understands the best practices to treat a mold infestation. SERVPRO technicians have gone through extensive training offered by the IICRC to know what the equipment and cleaning solutions would be best to remove the areas that have been affected by mold. 

Equipment needed for black mold cleaning  

On a mold job, you will see the following pieces of equipment:

1) Dehumidifiers 

A dehumidifier will be used to ensure that the affected areas do not have any water molecules in the air because mold thrives in damp areas. 

2) Air filtration devices 

An air purifier or air cleaner will remove contaminants from the air in a room to improve indoor air quality.

3) Hepa Vacuums 

Hepa vacuums allow the technicians to vacuum up mold spores without them spreading to other areas. 

4) Negative air pressure barriers 

Negative air pressure barriers allow mold to be contained in only the affected area. 

Mold damage often comes following water damage that was not properly cleaned. If your home is suffering from both water and mold damage, SERVPRO of South Cobb will come in and locate, fix, and eliminate any sources of excess water. 

A quality cleanup starts and ends with the proper mold testing. DIY mold tests purchased from home depot or lowes are less expensive but not in the long run. For best results, an environmental hygienist must test your home after mold remediation is complete to ensure that your home and family are safe. 

SERVPRO will remove the visible mold damage as well as the musty odor associated with a mold problem. Call us today, and we will make sure that your home is adequately tested and cleaned. 

More about Smyrna 

Please call (770) 739-2355.

What To Do When Important Documents Are Damaged By Water In Your Atlanta Property| Call SERVPRO Experts For Help!

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can save important documents after a commercial loss.

Document Drying After A Commercial Water Damage In Atlanta

There are many commercial buildings in the city of Atlanta. Most of the highrise buildings belong to corporations that store essential documents. What would happen if you did not have a dry bag for documents causing all of the businesses' critical documents to get wet? 

An Accounting firm or Lawfirm can not risk the loss of the essential documents of their business. A water loss to a commercial building will potentially be an expensive loss to the property and paper document. If you find yourself in a position where you have recently lost essential documents from water damage, contact us to have our commercial restorers to help recover documents that have been damaged. Drying documents is expensive and time-consuming, but it can save your business hours of paperwork.

When severe water damage occurs to a commercial building in Atlanta, there will be a process called a pack out. A packout is where our SERVPRO professionals will take all of the salvageable materials back to our facility for drying. We can save electronics, rugs, and any other essential items that have been damaged. In the past, Atlanta property managers have communicated with a SERVPRO project manager during the inventorying and packing out stage to let them know what the most valuable items are and what can be discarded. 

When it comes to saving documents that have been damaged by water, we need to be clear that existing damages to documents cannot be reversed. We can prevent the documents from being lost using advanced drying techniques, including sublimation.

What is Sublimation?

Sublimation is a process of turning a solid into a vapor without having to go through the liquid state. When looking to have your documents restored, you need to consider the contamination levels the document has and how long it has been exposed to moisture. The more severe the damages to the document are, the longer the time frame will be to restore the papers. Allow our trained SERVPRO restorer to explain the costs and time frames for each document that has been damaged. We always leave it up to the owner of the documents to let us know if they want us to save the document. 

Four techniques used to save wet documents 

1) Vacuum thermal-drying

2) Air-drying 

3) Vacuum freeze-drying

4) dehumidification

The Process For Saving Documents 

We have found the best first step to remediate wet documents is to freeze them. Freezing slows the process of water destruction and will give the SERVPRO restore more time to determine the best course of action to save each document.

Conclusion

Hard copy documents, when damaged from water, are not going to be easy to remediate. Contact SERVPRO of South Cobb to have a professional come and evaluate the best course of action to save your property and the belongings inside. 

In case of emergency, rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb to clean up the damage. We are available 24/7 to clean up any water and mold damages that your property has recently had. For all questions, please call (770) 739-2355.

More about Atlanta

Why Is Being IICRC Certified Important In The Restoration Field?

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

The IICRC plays a significant role in training and ensuring that all of their certified firm's work is consistent.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) plays a significant role here at SERVPRO of South Cobb. Owner Rick Northen leads the way in higher education by becoming the first certified technician in the early 2000s. 

The IICRC and its guidelines guide much of the work done to address water damage, mold containment, and cleaning materials. Let's make it clear; the IICRC does not have the power to create mandatory regulations. Rick is the one who holds our employees to a higher standard here at SERVPRO of South Cobb. 

The IICRC organization was founded in 1972. Since then, they have worked to improve the cleaning and restoration industry's voluntary standards to benefit consumers, and the quality of cleaning a business performs. These standards are continuously developed over time with input from professionals across North America. 

The Quality of Training

In Austell, Georgia, a quality disaster mitigation company must keep up with the evolving standards of cleaning and restoration. SERVPRO technicians all must go to an approved IICRC training school to be awarded and learn more about specific industry techniques and standards.

Classes operate year-round in the following categories:

• Water restoration
• Fire restoration
• Upholstery cleaning
• Carpet cleaning
• Applied structural drying

Trained technicians must prove that they can perform work to the highest standards in the industry. To be a certified technician ensures the work is going to be completed at a high-level, but it also provides the technician with the best safety practices. 

The Importance of Continued Education

The IICRC is known to promote an ongoing learning process, and SERVPRO of South Cobb embraces continued education for its employees and franchises. When a new franchise is developed, the owner must take a 15-day course at a corporate training facility covering topics such as mold mitigation and carpet and upholstery cleaning. Restoration technicians also have access to self-paced learning through the IICRC that involves videos and testing. 

Here at SERVPRO of South Cobb, we understand that every building is different and requires unique drying and cleaning solutions. Our certified technicians know the best cleaning methods and materials for a variety of situations. When a new employee comes to work at SERVPRO, we have them work with a veteran employee for a few months before allowing them to perform work independently. We have set this protocol to ensure that we continue our high standard of work that we proudly stand behind. 

SERVPRO Classes

SERVPRO holds classes for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, and property management professionals. The classes that we offer are to help teach the basics of the restoration and what to do when disasters strike. The structure of our programs is offered at our office or a convenient location for the majority of registered attendees.

Contact us

Please contact us at (770) 739-2355 if you want to know more about SERVPRO of South Cobb and the certifications that we obtain. We pride ourselves on our highly educated and trained team and being able to handle any size disaster.

Broken Pipe Under Kitchen Sink Causing Water Damage

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

We have the equipment to save your home from further damages!

Water damage from a broken pipe under your kitchen sink can cause more severe damage if not cleaned up quickly and adequately.  

At the first sign of water damage, it is vital to act quickly before more damage occurs. In the case of a broken pipe, you must stop the water source from leaking, typically stopping the use of the kitchen sink altogether.  

Once stopped, call your local water damage professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb. We will come out to your house, assess the damage, clean and dry the affected areas, and restore it “Like it never even happened.”

The professionals at SERVPRO have seen it all. Once on-site, we can identify the source of the water damage, classify the type of water, and put together a plan of action to properly mitigate and restore the affected area. 

Restoration professionals have the equipment necessary to find areas that are not obviously affected. They will then make the drying and restoration process possible to occur.

In the case of water damage caused by a sink pipe, the water damage you will experience is clean water.,Clean water is essential to address it quickly before further damage occurs. Our SERVPRO is equipped to handle all situations, whether large or small.

If the water damage is left to sit for a few days, you can guarantee that any wet materials will experience mold damage. Permanent mold damage happens quickly. The cabinetry wood surfaces will start deteriorating, and mold will begin to appear because of the moist conditions. Act quickly when you find standing water to avoid the headache from mold damages. 

What to do while you wait for SERVPRO to arrive?

1. Stop the water source that is causing the water damage.
2. Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
3. Remove all materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
4. ALERT! If mold is visible, do not move anything because mold spores can quickly spread and damage other parts of the kitchen.

To prevent future water damage, it’s a good idea to make sure that you are continually checking your home appliances for leaks. If you spot a leak to any of your home faucets, it is good to get them fixed ASAP to prevent water damage from occurring in the future. 

Just as you have your favorite electrician or plumber, it is also essential to have the number of a 24-hour emergency water damage restoration company, like SERVPRO of South Cobb. 

Lastly, we suggest that you double-check with your insurance provider on the type of coverage that you obtain. When water damage occurs, we want our residents to have quality insurance coverage for your home and your possessions so that the restoration services and items that may need replacing are going to be covered.

In case of emergency, rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb to clean up the damage. We are available 24/7 to clean up any water and mold damages that your home has recently had. 

If you have any questions, please call (770) 739-2355.

Fire Damage Cleaning in your Smyrna Home’s Bathroom

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

We are highly trained professionals ready to handle any size fire disaster.

Our highly trained SERVPRO team is here to help Smyrna residents with fire damage restoration after fires occur in the bathroom.

Smyrna residents rarely have house fires, but when they do, they can be costly. Most of the fire damage calls here at SERVPRO of South Cobb are small and typically contained in the home's distinct rooms. 

As fire damage restoration professionals, our job is to get your home back to a healthy state while removing all unwanted signs of fire damage. Soot damage that has covered the walls and any burning plastic will be difficult to remove. To make our life easier, we have created a tool bag with specialized tools to make the fire clean up easier. 

Fire Damage in Smyrna Bathroom 

When you first suspect that your Smyrna bathroom has suffered from fire damage, make sure to call 911 as quickly as possible. Once the firefighters have put out fire damage, we will come in and assess the damaged bathroom. Most of the time, we find that the walls, ceiling, shower doors, and vanity require the most cleaning after the fire damage. To make the situation more manageable, we will handle all of the damaged contents in the bathroom to prepare for the restoration work.  

Bathroom Restoring 

Restoring a bathroom after a fire occurs will make the homeowner feel safe by leaving your bathroom very clean. If you aren't aware, soot clings to anything that it touches, making it difficult to use the bathroom without getting black residue on your skin. If the soot damage in the bathroom is not taken care of, you will find your daily routines difficult. Every time you shower, it is possible you will have to do your best not to spread the soot onto other parts and contents of your bathroom.   

Before starting the bathroom cleaning, we will remove all of the toiletries and any cosmetic equipment that is present. Then we will begin removing all damaged materials in a double-bagged trash bag to make sure that no other contents in your home don't get damaged from soot. 

In severe damage to the bathroom flooring, we will have to remove all of the flooring materials. Soot is challenging to remove from any carpeting and may cake into vinyl flooring.

After we finish the initial cleaning and removal of all the damaged materials, we will deodorize the bathroom with hydroxyl generators. This process may take over a few hours, depending on how bad the smoke smell has settled. 

Our SERVPRO professionals hold certifications from the IICRC to ensure that your bathroom fire damage is getting the most effective and safe fire clean up methods of getting rid of the soot. We have specialized equipment and top of the line cleaning agents to remove the soot greasiness from all damaged materials entirely. 

If your Smyrna bathroom has recently suffered from fire damage, please contact our office at (770) 739-2355. We are available 24/7 365 days a year for any fire damage services. 

Visit https://www.smyrnaga.gov/ for more information about the city of Smyrna.

Plumbing Back Ups After A Storm

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

Tree roots can get into your plumbing pipes causing a potential backup.

Heavy rainfall can cause a plumbing malfunction leaving your home ankle-deep in sewage water

SERVPRO of South Cobb has received many calls regarding water damage after a big storm passes through metro Atlanta. In some cases, the water damage has occurred from a sump pump failure or a foundation leak. In homes with a septic tank, we have seen a rise in sewage damage losses after heavy rainfall due to the storm air pressure change.  If your home has a septic system, we want to ensure that you stay free of nasty water losses. It is essential for our customers to know what the signs are for a failing septic system to avoid any category 3 water losses. 

What are the signs of septic system failure?

A clear indicator that your septic system may be faulty is when you hear strange noises. The typical noise that customers alert our plumbing contractors on is gurgling sounds from a toilet bowl or shower. Any noise coming from a pipe or drainage system is typically from a clogged pipe from your house's plumbing system to the septic tank.  

What are 3 causes of a clogged pipe?

When a pipe is clogged, the drain will likely make a sound and perform very slow draining. We have seen that there are three leading causes of a clogged pipe. 

1. Someone flushed something down the toilet that shouldn't be. 
2. Broken underground pipe 
3. Roots from a tree 

Flushing something other than human waste and paper down the drain is a prevalent plumbing problem that can cause significant damages to a home’s interior from water damage. If the item that is clogging the drain is not snaked out ASAP, it is likely that the water back up will occur and cause more issues. The issues might not happen immediately, but you can be sure that the damages might become present when heavy rainfall occurs.  

A broken underground pipe is another problem that can cause sewage backup into your home. If you see standing water in your yard, that is a clear indicator that you have a broken underground pipe. It is crucial to get the pipe fixed to avoid the sewage water from entering your home. We have seen cases where foundation leaks causing unwanted sewage water to enter the home.  

Old trees surrounding your home create a high possibility that roots will damage the septic system. This issue is difficult to detect at first. Roots can grow in your septic tank and into a home's plumbing pipes.  If this occurs, the water can back up into your home, leaving your basement full of sewage water. 

Sewage water is a category three water loss

Sewage water, also known as black water, is known as a category three water loss. If your home or business has suffered from this type of water loss, it is vital to contact a professional water restoration company like SERVPRO. SERVPRO of South Cobb has seen it all when it comes to water losses. We have handled small jobs where an AC unit has caused minor water damages, to a flooded basement in ankle-deep sewage water. 

If you have recently suffered from water damage after a recent storm, please contact our office at (770) 739-2355. We are available 24/7 365 days a year for any water damage related questions. 

3 Common Signs of Atlanta Wind Damage

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

It's important to have your home inspected after a storm passes through your neighborhood

How the professional spot wind damage to your home

We have seen unresolved wind damage cause more significant problems to our metro Atlanta homes. When heavy winds pass through Atlanta, the damage may affect your home or business gutters and roofing. These minor damages can become much bigger problems if not handled quickly. At SERVPRO of South Cobb, we have seen massive water damage from damaged gutters or roofing.

3 Common Signs of Wind Damage 

1. Missing or loose pieces of roofing materials. Check on the sides of your house and see if your roof has had shingles fly off after fast winds. 
2. Missing bricks or siding. When siding is damaged, your home is not set up o fight against potential water damages. 
3. A broken window or window seal can cause substantial damage to your home's interior if not correctly fixed. 

Suspect that your home has been affected by wind damage?

If your Atlanta home has apparent wind damage, it is essential to get your roof/property inspected by a licensed contractor. SERVPRO of South Cobb is licensed and insured, and if you do have wind damage to your home, we can tell you the proper steps on getting the missing materials replaced. In most cases, but not all, we recommend that you contact your insurance company to cover the loss. For documentation reasons, we tell our Atlanta residents always to keep a detailed record when something happens to your property. Include the date, time, weather information, and the damage in your documents. Keeping an accurate record is going to be helpful for insurance claims.  

Repairing Atlanta Homes after wind damage

Repairing damage to your home is pretty easy in most cases. The issue that we have seen is that many homeowners do not think it is a big deal to get the damaged materials replaced, causing more significant problems. In one scenario, we had a customer that told us that they knew that fast finds had caused damage to their roof because they found missing shingles in their yard. After a few months of neglect, the homeowner began to smell mold coming from their attic. When one of our IICRC trained professionals inspected the attic, we found mold that had developed from a leak in their roof. A dark, moist place, like an attic, is a friendly place for mold growth. 

A quick fix is not going to take place when wind damage is more extensive, like from a tornado. Although tornadoes are not common in Atlanta, that last one occurring in 2008, we need to ensure that you are aware that extensive restoration protocols required to take place. Atlanta tornadoes can cause water damage, roof damage, chimney damage, and multiple other forms of damage to your home that can complicate the repair process. 

Inspections and Restoration Contractor Information

Give us a call if you believe that your Atlanta home has been damaged from heavy winds. We would be more than happy to come and inspect your home for restoration damages. To schedule an appointment, you can call our office at (770) 739-2355 or fill out the form on our contact page.

SERVPRO of South Cobb is a Certified IICRC Firm

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

All of our technicians go through extensive training to be IICRC certified.

What does it mean to be an IICRC Firm? 

SERVPRO of South Cobb is an IICRC firm. For those wondering, IICRC stands for The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration. The IICRC has created the standards for the restoration industry by providing training and certification to cleaning and restoration companies. You can tell if a company is IICRC certified by the certified logo badge on any restoration business website. When choosing a restortion contractor we recommend second-guessing using any business that is not displaying an IICRC badge because they most likely do not have the next level training to handle all restoration services. 

What do certified IICRC Firms guarantee?

When we decided to become an IICRC certified firm we choose to: 

• Always present accurate information to our customers 
• Always conduct business with honesty and integrity
• Always have a certified technician on site 
• Always continue education for our staff so that they know the latest industry trends
• Always obtain the highest level of insurance to protect all parties 
• Always Adhere to the IICRC’s code of ethics 

The IICRC Standards 

The IICRC offers many certifications that help create industry standards for many restoration and commercial cleaning companies. The IICRC standards have multiple certifications that take years to develop and obtain. 

IICRC Restoration Certifications:

• water damage restoration technician (wrt)
• applied structural drying technician (asd)
• water damage restoration technician and applied structural drying technician combination course (wrt/asd)
• fire and smoke restoration technician (fsrt)
• health and safety technician (hst)
• building moisture thermography (bmt)
• applied microbial remediation technician (amrt)
• commercial drying specialist (cds)

These certifications are specific for restoration companies. The IICRC has commercial cleaning training and certifications as well. Their cleaning certifications include best practices for commercial and residential cleaning and certifications on how to clean different floors. 

Staying On Top of Education 

Every five years, our SERVPRO technicians have to renew and update their certifications. The reason that it is every five years is that the standards are reviewed and updated by the IICRC. Water, fire, and mold damage restoration techniques are changing rapidly. In the past year, we have seen rapid changes in technology and science; being on top has been a key driver to our success. To obtain a certification, an individual must attend an IICRC-approved course and complete a written examination. The certified individual cannot get the certification if they can’t document skills in the specific subject that they would like to become certified.

Trust Your Local SERVPRO Professionals

When it comes to hiring a restoration business, we want our customers to know that we are IICRC certified. Our certified firm handles restoration in all of South Cobb and the surrounding areas. Being a certified IICRC firm makes us not only credible but also trained to an industry standard. 

We want our South Cobb residents to know that we provide the industry standard that stands behind the SERVPRO name, but we also have the IICRC certifications to provide the best work to our customers. In the event of a restoration emergency, please give SERVPRO of South Cobb a call anytime at (770) 739-2355. We are here to help you 24/7.

Process for Commercial Fire Restoration

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

We are fast responders to any size disaster!

How to prepare for commercial fire damage in Atlanta 

Preparing for a fire is not something that most Atlanta residents plan for. When it comes to commercial fire damage multiple units are likely to be affected. The best way to plan for a fire is to communicate with the property manager on what the best steps are when a fire occurs. SERVPRO offers a free service called an ERP (Emergency ready plan) for all of the Atlanta commercial buildings. It is most likely that your property manager knows who to call and where all the main shut off valves are located. SERVPRO of South Cobb wants to ensure the safety of all residents in a fire. If you hear a fire alarm or smell smoke the best thing to do is to leave the premises as quickly as possible. 

The difference between restoring vs. replacing

 At SERVPRO we know that residents have roughly 48 hours to make a decision on how they can best handle the fire loss situation. We suggest that if a fire happens that you call us as quickly as possible to ensure that your belongings are safe. When we arrive at a fire damage job we will provide smoke and soot removal. As well, we will take your Atlanta apartment contents to restore them back to preloss conditions if possible. Not all contents that are lost in a fire are restorable but we promise to always try our best and remove any smoke and soot from your furniture.

What an Atlanta Resident should expect from us after fire damage occurs 

We always respond quickly

One Hour: Within an hour of contacting SERVPRO you can guarantee that you will receive a call back from one of our highly trained office staff to fully understand how we can best respond to your fire damage. 

Four Hours: Within four hours of loss notification, there will be a crew on-site at your property. We want you to be aware that in larger commercial fire losses there might be other restoration companies looking for work. We are typically the first responder but if you have to question, make sure you ask your property manager who they called. 

Eight Hours: Within eight hours of on-site arrival, certified technicians will be working on both the fire and water damage loss at your property. When there is a fire there is likely always going to be a water loss as well because the Atlanta Fire Department has to put out the fire with water and other agents. We will start to scope out your property and see if any windows need to be boarded or if we can effectively remove anything that is salvageable. 

The following day:  The following day you can expect a project manager to come with a larger crew to ensure that we are removing all of the damaged materials that are not salvageable. During this period we will also start scoping the site in seeing what we will efficiently dry, clean, restore, and deodorize. 

Detailed Explanation: A trained IICRC certified technician will walk you through the job process step-by-step. Our goal is to make sure that all parties that are affected by fire damage have their questions answered. We will be explaining what to expect during the fire restoration process and the anticipated outcome. Fire damage is going to take some time; we will work with your insurance company to make sure that you are properly taken care of. All of our SERVPRO staff has been trained to give highly detailed estimates to ensure the most out of your fire loss.  We then use restoration techniques to put your home back to normal in the told time frame.

Final Walk-through: After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with the same team that you met when that initial call occurred. We want our customers to be satisfied with the work that we provide. 

If you have any questions or concerns during or after a fire loss please reach out to a staff member at SERVPRO of South Cobb at (770) 739-2355. We are available 24/7 and stand behind our name with integrity. 

SERVPRO 6 warning signs to avoid water damage from drains

5/25/2020 (Permalink)

Our IICRC trained professionals are here to help you, 24/7.

Most of the calls that we receive at SERVPRO of South Cobb are from common plumbing problems caused by various reasons. The biggest water damage jobs cause a lot of grief for the homeowners. The problem is that most of these water damages can be completely avoidable if an Atlanta resident knows the signs of plumbing build up. 

Proper use of drains

We want our Atlanta residents to remember that drains are meant to remove wastewater. One hundred percent avoidable water damages happen when homeowners or residents try to put trash, hair, leftovers, and the other materials down the drain. Flushing non-wastewater down any drain will most likely result in a water damage insurance claim. 

Build up in Atlanta plumbing  

There are a good bit of structures in the Atlanta metropolitan area that was built before the 1970s. Because of the age of the Atlanta structures, it is possible that grimy buildup made of soap scum and bacteria has collected in your plumbing. Once buildup starts collecting, other debris like trash, and hair collect as well. 

Six Signs That Build-Up Has Occurred:

Toilet Overflowing while Shower is running

An overflowing toilet during a shower is a clear indication of a blocked drain line. If the toilet continues to overflow, it is necessary to call a local Atlanta plumber for a proper sewage cleaning. If the water has overflowed to a point where a homeowner is concerned, they should contact SERVPRO of South Cobb. We offer water damage cleanup services. We will come into your home and remove standing water, apply antimicrobials to the area, and suggest recommendations on which contents should be disposed of or restored.

Toilet Not Flushing 

Have you ever spent your morning trying to unclog a toilet? If not, you are a lucky individual. A toilet, not flushing, is the most common warning sign that a drain is clogged. In uncomplicated cases, a clogged toilet is the result of too much toilet paper being flushed. In more severe cases, we have seen kids trying to flush a toy down the toilet. A backed-up toilet may cause a lot of damage to the bathroom and surrounding rooms.

Slow Drainage While Running Water 

The buildup of soap scum and hair are often the reason for a drainage issue to occur. Slow drainage can affect a sink, tub, or shower. To avoid water damage from slow drainage, we recommend that you stay on top of regular drain cleaning. There are many liquid drain cleaners that you can purchase at your local grocery store. Please read the instructions carefully when using drain cleaners to avoid any harm.

Drain Stench 

Another sign of a clog is from any drain that smells bad. Several factors can cause a drain smell if the smell does not go away after using drain cleaner we recommend hiring an Atlanta plumber to come out and check on smell. 

Gurgling Noise From Drain

A gurgling noise that occurs in a drain is another indicator that a homeowner has a clogged drain. The gurgling sound usually comes from air that is trapped in your pipes. This noise is an indicator that a clog has occurred further down your home sewer line. 

Yard Puddles 

Unexplained puddles of water in your yard are a sign of a clog. Pools of water need to be taken care of quickly because the water may enter your home and cause further damages. In either case, you can call SERVPRO to help evaluate the best solution to avoid home water damage. 

We want our Atlanta homeowners and residents to know how to turn off the water to their homes. The main water shut off is located in different places in each home or building. If you want help finding your emergency water shut off valve give SERVPRO a call at (770) 739-2355. Our IICRC trained professionals are here to help you, 24/7.

Flood Damage To Your Smyrna Home

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Give SERVPRO of South Cobb a call anytime at (770) 739-2355.

SERVPRO Will find The Best Solution to fix Your Water Damaged Home

Most of the time, after heavy storms, flood damage occurs, which is distressing and frightening. Within a blink of an eye, your home can no longer seem like your own. After the initial water extraction, you may see visible damage to furniture and other personal belongings. The worst part is going to the tell-tale damp smell that lingers after flooding.

Help from skilled professionals may be needed to help you deal with flood damage to your Smyrna home. Thankfully SERVPRO is only one call away and will offer all the necessary assistance to get your home cleaned up, dried out, and odor-free. 

We Know Our How To Operate Advanced Equipment 

The home drying process is knowing the correct use of dehumidifiers. The purpose of dehumidifiers is to reduce the amount of humidity in the air using a process where air from the environment is pulled and passed across cooling coils. The cooling coils lower the air temperature, causing condensation (Water Vapors), which the unit collects. Next, the dehumidifier reheats and redistributes hot air into the room.

Most people use small dehumidifiers when they have a humid basement. The reason is that as explained above, a dehumidifier removes water vapor held in the air. Georgia is no stranger to humidity, especially during the warm summer months.  

Did you know that humidity rises after a flood because there's more water vapor in the air? Our water damage professionals know that the higher the moisture level, the more difficult the drying process.

How Do Dehumidifiers Work?

Dehumidifiers will reduce the amount of humidity in the air by using a smart but straightforward process. The unit sucks in moist air from the room and passes it across cooling coils located inside the dehumidifier. The inner coils lower the air temperature, causing condensation. After the condensation, the drier air is reheated and redistributed into the room, removing all moisture from the air.

I hope you can see why dehumidifiers are such a vital piece of equipment to handle flood damage. We put our SERVPRO technicians in extensive training to calculate the best dehumidifier set-up for every unique situation.

How We Place Our Drying Equipment 

First, when we arrive on-site, our teams will take into account key factors, including the amount of water present in flood damage. We also take a look at the kinds of wet materials that are present (porous or non-porous). Lastly, we know how important it is to see whether water has seeped into walls and floors. We can tell the number of dehumidifiers that are necessary for the job when we know how severe the flood damage is. 

We want our Smyrna homeowners to be aware that it is impossible to tell how dry a structure is by looking at a structure. When we arrive on-site, you can be sure that our technicians will carefully monitor drying progress using moisture meters and information gathered from other water mitigation tools. With our tools, we will know if we should add or remove dehumidifiers. In some cases, we have had to create a small drying chamber to speed up the drying process.

How to Stop a Grease Fire: Three Fire Safety Tips

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Pour Baking Soda/Salt onto the Flames

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), between 2012 and 2016, cooking fires were the number one cause of home fires in the US at 48% of total home fires; a pretty scary number given there were almost 200,000 home fires reported during this same period. With this number in mind, a grease fire started over half of these cooking-related home fires. It’s essential to understand how to extinguish a grease fire safely properly. When trying to put out a grease fire, the wrong way can result in a severe disaster. 

Grease fires can combust immediately, you can be frying food in a pan, and a bit of smoke may start coming off of the oil, and the next thing you know, the oil has burst into flames. The first thing you should do immediately is turn off the range or heat source that could potentially make things worse. DO NOT try to move or slide the pot or pan with the flaming oil. Splashes of the oil can quickly spread around the kitchen and spread the fire this way. 

Three safe ways to extinguish a grease fire

Use a Fire Extinguisher (Class B)

It’s essential to keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen for scenarios like this, but it’s also important to make sure you have the right type of fire extinguisher to put out a grease fire. You should aim to have a Class B fire extinguisher or a multi-purpose one that includes Class B. This type of extinguisher is designed for flammable liquids and will best extinguish the flame if you have quick access to one. 

Cover Flame with a Metal Pan or Sheet

The key to putting out a fire is to cut off its oxygen source. Covering the flames with a metal baking sheet, lid, pot, or pan can allow the flame to burn out safely. Do not use plastic or glass for this as the heat from a grease fire is hot enough to melt or crack these materials.

Pour Baking Soda/Salt onto the Flames

Another quick way to smother the flames of a grease fire is by pouring a large enough amount of either salt or baking soda onto the fire. These common kitchen ingredients won’t combust and can safely extinguish the flames. Please note to never use flour or baking powder for this; these are combustible if dumped onto the fire and will only make the fire larger or spread it. 

Following all of these three steps can drastically reduce the odds of a grease fire occurring in your home. However, fires aren't always preventable. In the event you have a fire in your kitchen, please give SERVPRO of South Cobb a call anytime at (770) 739-2355. Our IICRC trained professionals are here to help you, 24/7.

How to Prevent Kitchen Fires in Smyrna, Georgia

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

In the event your home has suffered from a kitchen fire, please call (770) 739-2355.

A good number of household fires begin in the kitchen as there are many potential fire hazards present in the average kitchen. Kitchen fires can be hard to deal with, especially in the event of a grease fire, which can very quickly escalate out of control into a large fire, endangering life and property. Luckily, the fire and smoke damage restoration experts here at SERVPRO are specially trained to help repair fire and smoke damage after a fire occurs. While you can’t get rid of every potential fire hazard in your kitchen, there are some pretty easy ways to help prevent a fire from occurring: 

Keeping your kitchen appliances clean and in good working conditions can help prevent a fire from starting up over the combustion of food and grease buildup. Your toaster is a good example of something that many people don’t think to clean often enough. Be sure to dump the bottom tray of your toaster out every now and then to remove the build-up of dry bread crumbs. Over time these may build up and combust during use leading to a kitchen fire. 

Another simple step to preventing a fire is to unplug kitchen appliances that do not need to be plugged in when you’re not using them. Older appliances with faulty wiring may burst into flames leading to smoke and fire damage even if you’re not using them. 

Keeping proper safety equipment ready around your home is another step you can take to help yourself in the event of a small fire. Smoke detectors should be kept relatively close to your kitchen, not too close to be easily set off by cooking smoke, but close enough to detect smoke that could indicate a fire. The batteries should be tested monthly to ensure that everything works as you never know when a fire could happen. Fire extinguishers are also an extremely important item to keep in your kitchen to help put out a fire on the spot before it gets out of control.

While cooking there are some steps you can take to prevent accidental fire, especially a grease fire. Do not overfill pots and pans with oil and grease. While you might not think about it, the buildup of grease and cooking oil on the surface of your stove is extremely flammable and if not cleaned up properly, may lead to a sudden grease fire while cooking. It’s also important while cooking to keep yourself safe by keeping your hair up, sleeves pulled up, and not wearing clothing that is too loose as to possibly catch fire. Keep things like dry rags and paper towels away from the stove while cooking and don’t leave burners on if you aren’t using them. 

The final way to help prevent a kitchen fire is to never leave food unattended while cooking. This might seem like common sense, but leaving anything unattended in the kitchen is a potential disaster waiting to happen. Keep an eye on your food until you’re finished cooking and keep the area around your cooking space clean.

Following all of these steps can drastically reduce the odds of a kitchen fire occurring in your home, however, fires can’t always be prevented. In the event you have a fire in your kitchen, please give SERVPRO of South Cobb a call anytime at (770) 739-2355. Our IICRC trained professionals are here to help you 24/7.

The Difference Between a Storm Warning and a Storm Watch

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

If your home has experienced storm damage, call us ASAP at (770) 739-2355.

Population size can affect the severity of a storm by at least 2% in rainfall. This is due to a higher temperature in cities like Smyrna, Georgia. Fortunately, our phones have the convenient ability to alert us of an oncoming storm, whether the storm happens tonight, tomorrow, or within the next few days. However, these alerts come with two different descriptions of the storm, a storm watch or a storm warning. Without being informed on the difference between the two, how can we know how prepared we need to be for storms headed our way? Here’s the difference. A storm warning is a less severe storm message. 

A storm warning is for a storm that:

• will arrive soon 
• lasts between twenty minutes and an hour
• covers only portions of a county
• indicates we should take cover when the message is received

A storm watch is for a storm that:

• will arrive within a few hours
• lasts for several hours
• can cover across multiple states
• indicates we should have a plan prepared for when it arrives

With this information, we can better prepare ourselves for when that message shows up on phones. The next time a storm message arrives, whether a watch or a warning, save your stress about the possibility of damage until the following day. And before looking for how to handle storm damage from last night, consider hiring storm damage specialists directly from businesses like your local SERVPRO, who have the power of a commercial company with the speed and customer service of a local company. SERVPRO of South Cobb can take all the hassle out of the inevitable. While we cannot avoid the path of a storm, they can restore our homes as though storms never happen. 

The Chemistry Behind Fire

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

You can reach our experienced emergency response team anytime by calling (770) 739-2355.

In order to understand SERVPRO’s fire damage restoration services, we should understand the process of fire itself. Fire occurring is due to the oxidation of something during the exothermic chemical process. Essentially, that means that when oxygen fuels, combustion, heat, and light are produced, which is what you see and feel as a result. While most of us aren’t chemists and haven’t been in a chemistry class in years, we can recall some knowledge of elements and compounds to understand fire better. The flame itself occurs during the ignition point, which is a part of the combustion reaction. The flame, however, is only the visible part of the fire itself. The flames are a combination of not only oxygen but also nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and water vapor. A variety of temperatures and colors of the flames are produced depending on the circumstances. Different materials can burn hotter, and some can create flames that may be blue in color. 

Fire damage is a hazard to life, once the reaction creates spreadable flames. Of course, we understand that it burns and spreads. However, there are other dangerous aspects of fire itself. For one, it can create pollution because certain things, when burned, can put chemicals into the air. Plastic, for example, isn’t something that can be burned safely. Forest fires can threaten the nutrition in the soil, which can prevent a forest from growing back easily. Fires cause permanent damage.

Though fires are helpful, used to benefit the growth of society since the beginning of time, there are a lot of boundaries between it being helpful and destructive. For light and warmth, we use it in many ways, but the moment we lose control of it, it threatens the well-being of our homes and belongings and lives.

Fire damage is important to take seriously since the lingering effects of fire can harm our bodies, homes, and material possessions. In case of fire damage, immediately contact a restoration company such as SERVPRO of South Cobb at (770) 739-2355  to limit damaging after-effects of the chemical process that we just learned about. Our IICRC trained professionals are ready to restore your property “Like it never even happened.”

The Lingering Effects of Fire Damage in Your Smyrna Home

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

With even smaller fires, smoke and soot damages are a typical lingering effect.

SERVPRO Works Quickly to Return Your Home to its Pre-Loss Condition

Your Smyrna home might not be devastated by the recent fire, but there are still going to be lingering symptoms that make it difficult to live comfortably. With so many things that could hinder your family from moving on from the panic and trauma of the event, professional restoration services become the most expedient and efficient method for resolving the damage quickly and thoroughly. 

When SERVPRO claims to be “Faster to any size disaster,” that is not just a catchphrase used to draw attention. It is a commitment to your Smyrna Homes fire damage and any other need for restorative services that you might have. Our team can walk you through the damage and each step of the total restoration process until every affected aspect of your home gets successfully returned to preloss conditions. 

With even smaller fires, smoke and soot damages are a typical lingering effect. While this might often affect the walls, floors, and ceilings of the rooms that experienced the blaze, correcting this problem is often more involved than simple cleaning measures can achieve. Depending on the severity of the present soot and smoke damages, our SERVPRO professionals have the equipment to scrub affected surfaces with a wet solution and without one. This penetrating scrubber can often successfully remove the soot and restore the damage, but more severely damaged areas might only be readied for priming and painting to complete. The same equipment gets used for the contents of your home that have gotten impacted by the smoke and soot as well, such as furniture, carpeting, drapery, and more. 

When people think of fires they might have experienced in their homes in the past, the one thing that people tend to remember is the lingering scent. The noxious odor can make it difficult to stay in your home at all, let alone pass through affected areas. Foggers can be used by our SERVPRO team to alter foul odor molecules and neutralize them on contact chemically. The process leaves no scent in the air after completion and is also effective for fabrics and contents in your home. 

Even a small fire in your home is a big deal to you and your family. Trust our SERVPRO of South Cobb team to help you restore the fire damage and live comfortably in your house once again. You can reach our experienced emergency response team anytime by calling (770) 739-2355.

Visit https://www.smyrnaga.gov/ for more information about the city of Smyrna.

Seasonal Severe Weather Causes Flooding in Smyrna

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Teams Arrive Ready and Equipped to Tackle Flood Damage in Your Home

Residents of Smyrna pay close attention during hurricane season, tracking the path of the storms making landfall off the Gulf and/or moving through Florida. The storms may decrease in ferocity, but if they pass over our area, heavy rains and strong winds are anticipated. Flood damage is common, and we are ready to assist if water fills any areas of your home. 

Multiple inches of rain falling over just the span of a few hours spells flood damage in Smyrna to your home. The lowest levels of your dwelling and any foundation or crawl space are at risk, and the quantity of water requires professional help to remove. We have tracked the storm as well, and have the crews assembled and equipment inventoried to come to the aid of our community. 

Fast action by SERVPRO minimizes the long-term effects of flooding. Contact us as soon as you note water is climbing inside or swamping your foundation or crawl space. Standing water is extreme in its destructive power, and the sooner we arrive to assess and plan, the more quickly we remove the water and move on the structural drying and restoration. 

Expect your SERVPRO team to arrive fully-equipped to begin water removal. Often power outages accompany flooding events because of high winds and lightning. We power our industrial strength submersible pumps and high-efficiency water extractors from vehicle loaded sources. No waiting means less time for the water and any hazardous substances or items it contains to accelerate damage to your home. Water removed we dispose of off-site, necessary as floodwater is considered contaminated, often filled with sewer backup, chemical runoff from neighboring lawns and pavement, and overflow from nearby waterways. 

Trained technicians then measure and monitor the moisture in structure and contents. SERVPRO uses advanced technology to locate hidden and trapped water inside walls and in recesses of your foundation or crawl space. Once we note this obscured moisture, we work to release and remove it. Sections of walls may be cut out to permit extractors to suction the water out, or holes may be drilled into mortar joints for the water to evacuate. 

We position air movers and dehumidifiers to reduce the remaining moisture rapidly as well as sanitizing surfaces to inhibit microbial activity. Any furnishings or stored items are moved to a dry area for experienced restorers to review. Do not assume precious items are ruined. Many saturated items, including documents, pictures, and heirlooms, gain new life using unique resources SERVPRO offers.  

A flood event is frightening and overwhelming, but SERVPRO of South Cobb restores both your home and peace of mind. Call us for a flood damage evaluation at (770) 739-2355. 

Visit https://www.smyrnaga.gov/ for more information about the city of Smyrna.

Flood Damage in Clarkdale can Ruin Your Home and Endanger Your Health

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Technicians Can Quickly Assess your Property After a Flood

Floods cause a great deal of damage and can come from many sources. The worst floods come from external sources, although it is possible that clean water from burst water lines can become contaminated inside our home, making them almost as bad as floods originating outside your home. Contaminants make things especially hazardous to your health, but here are other dangers that can lurk inside your home after a flood has receded. 

In Clarkdale, flood damage can include silt and soils left behind in your appliances. These can retain moisture, creating not only breeding grounds for microorganisms but also moist environments that cause rust and other corrosive actions. As you know, rust can ruin your electric appliances over time, even if they seemed fine at first. Hot water heaters are especially dangerous because silt can shift, blocking pilot lights and creating gas leaks in the process. The same is true of gas dryers and ovens. 

It is vital to have your home appliances examined by a qualified professional to check and to make repairs on them. While we at SERVPRO are excellent at cleaning such items, we want to make sure that they are in perfect working order and recommend that these always also be examined by a certified technician after we have cleaned them. Most water damage technicians will not clean appliances to the degree required after a flood, but we can.

Other cleaning aspects can help you preserve your wood floors. After a flood, you are not merely battling moisture. You are also working to remove sediments that can act like sandpaper in your home. Some of this sediment is so fine, it can become airborne, and when breathed in, it can irritate your nasal passages and throat. Air scrubbers can help remove these particles, just like they do mold spores. As we dry your home with our heaters and air movers, we can also place our air scrubbers in the most effective locations to catch much of the silt, and other particles, floating in the air, making your home air much cleaner in the long run for you and your family. 

When you find yourself coping with flood damage, give us, SERVPRO of South Cobb a call at (770) 739-2355. Day or night, we are here to help you fight restoration emergencies.

SERVPRO's Class-Based Dehumidification System

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Evaluating the Class of Water Damage is Essential to Planning Remediation

Dehumidification is one of the most difficult - and one of the most important - tasks to be done in any water removal job. Determining the correct timing, volume, intensity, and equipment for dehumidification can be a difficult task even for our veteran IICRC trained technicians, so SERVPRO locations nationwide have adopted a fairly straightforward class-based dehumidification system to provide for any drying situation adequately. While a Class 1 scenario requires far less work than a Class 4, we make sure to give all projects we take on the time and attention needed to ensure a thorough job done. 

Class 1 

Class 1 scenarios are most common when only light water removal is necessary for Smyrna homes. Here, very few porous materials such as carpet, padding, and fabric have been affected by water damage, and the only drying we need to do concerns puddles and non-invasive water throughout the area. These situations do not often require more than minor dehumidification regimens. To make sure damage is not worse than it at first seems, we always make sure to use thermal sensors to determine if water has penetrated into any materials we find it on. 

Class 2 

In a Class 2 scenario, there may be moderate soaking of porous materials, and larger sections of carpeting may be damp. Water may also have wicked up walls around the home, although usually less than two feet high. These situations are when we start to need more advanced dehumidification regimens and machines to address the problem. 

Class 3 

A Class 3 scenario usually contains wide stretches of wet carpet, fabric, upholstery, and other porous materials. In most cases, water has seeped in from above, such as in a flood. Heavy dehumidification may be required to remove the deep-seated water molecules present throughout the environment. 

Class 4 

Class 4 scenarios are what challenge SERVPRO personnel the most. In these relatively rare situations, water has penetrated into much harder materials such as tough woods and concrete, requiring specialty dehumidification procedures. Although these hurdles are tough to surmount, our diverse array of tools and national resources allow us to handle them fully. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb takes water removal seriously, ensuring that no step gets skipped over and no home is left with excess moisture. Contact us at the first sign of water damage at (770) 739-2355.

We know The 3 Most Common Places To Find Mold in Your Austell Home

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

For as long as people have been living indoors, Austell mold has been a serious issue to conquer. No dwelling is immune to the spread of mold. Mold grows from constant moisture buildup from damp surfaces, water leaks, and humid climates.

The problem with Austell mold is it can spread if it is not treated immediately. You may find a little mold in the corner of a wall and it will quickly spread to the floor, all over the wall, on your furniture, and even up to the ceiling. There is really no place that mold cannot spread. To keep from developing a mold infestation, perform regular checks where mold typically grows like the basement and other areas of the home that tend to stay damp.

Basements

The basement can be a breeding ground for mold. It has a tendency to be damp due to the drainage of water that flows through it. Basements are filled with pipes, sinks, sump pumps, and other fixtures that can potentially develop a water leak, overflow, or a simple collection of water, which will, in turn, create the perfect scenario for mold to grow. Spores can grow from any type of moisture in the ground and spread to your walls. Home basements with concrete walls tend to be covered with drywall and drywall can be a perfect environment for mold spores to grow, since it is made from wood.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are another important space to check regularly for mold. Bathrooms are filled with pipes, drains, porous surfaces, and fixtures that use water on a daily basis. Bathrooms are the one room in the house that stays damp more than it stays dry. Every shower and bath taken in a bathroom can create a moist, damp, and humid room for mold to grow. Your bathroom is the last room you want mold growing and destroying your space. Tile is used in bathrooms to keep mold at bay, however, drywall is still used under the tile making it a hotbed for mold growth.

Kitchens

The kitchen, though not as bad as bathrooms, can still develop a mold situation. The sink area is the main area to keep a focused eye on because drains and pipes could have leaks, not to mention the water left behind from washing dishes and preparing food. Keep in mind, though you may only have one water source in your kitchen, spills and standing water can also cause mold.

These are the three main places that mold can grow in your Austell home. If you find mold in your home you need to call us ASAP for mold remediation services at (770) 739-2355.

Visit https://www.smyrnaga.gov/ for more information about the city of Smyrna.

Commercial Water Removal In Smyrna, Georgia

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

If you need us for commercial water damage services, call (770) 739-2355.

Commercial Water Removal

The weather in Smyrna is OK now, but as most business owners know, most of their flooding and other water issues come from broken toilets or split water lines. No matter the setting, all water damages should be handled by a professional service.

We have seen that there is a tendency to cut corners when it comes to commercial water removal in Smyrna. Many business owners have no problem spending money on a licensed plumber and then will rent a shampoo machine and a water-vac from the nearest big box store to clean up the mess. At SERVPRO of South Cobb, we know that this is never a good idea.

The best rental equipment cannot match the commercial-grade machines we bring to each water damage job. We have qualified IICRC personnel trained to maintain our equipment on-site and have it ready every time it's needed. 

Take carpets as an example. A water-vac removes most of the water, and they may even feel dry to the touch, but there is always some moisture trapped inside. To thoroughly remove the water and dry them, SERVPRO technicians use pumps, water extraction wands, air movers, and dehumidifiers.

If the water is over two inches, we start with the pumps. Even in an ample space with multiple offices, our pumps can finish the job in just a few hours. If it is under two inches, we begin with the extraction wands. Unlike a water-vac, we have multiple settings to adjust the speed and force used. Most of the wands also have a built-in heating element, so we can start to dry the carpets as we finish removing the water trapped inside.

Once we finish with the wands, there is still a small amount of moisture trapped between the carpet layers. Most commercial carpets are glued down, so we use air movers to send dry air over the surface. Proper training is essential so that the glue does not cause the carpet to form bubbles. 

Each type of business and building has its special requirements to remove water and reopen the doors to customers. If you need us for commercial water damage services, call (770) 739-2355.

The Importance of Promptly Seeking Water Removal Services For Your Smyrna Restaurant

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Call us today at (770) 739-2355 if your restaurant has suffered from water damage.

The Importance of Promptly Seeking Water Removal Services For Your Smyrna Restaurant  

Your Smyrna restaurant might be a well-established facility for all of the readers and researchers in your area, but that same foot traffic is what pays the bills and keeps your business in the black. When disaster strikes your building and leaves high volumes of water on the floors throughout your business, professional restoration is one of the best solutions to get your doors open again to that critical customer base more expediently.

When your Smyrna Restaurant requires water removal services along with restoration efforts, there is typically quite a lot on the line to getting the issue resolved promptly. No matter which area of your shop takes the brunt of the water damage, there are constant considerations you have to concern yourself with as the owner. The amount of time that your shop has to remain closed for restoration, damage to your books and other stock, time off for employees that count on a paycheck, and also the threat of costly substantial structural damages, all matter.

When our SERVPRO technicians reach your storefront, it is critical for our team to look at the full scope of the damage, as we prepare for the extraction. Removing the water from the area is often a task for a combination of our equipment. With higher volumes of water to extract, the most efficient means of pulling the bulk out of the affected area is through one of the pump trucks in our fleet. Spot extractions follow suit after this, using both portable pumps and wet-vacs for small and inaccessible places.

Drying the area completely is a critical component of our restoration process. Our SERVPRO professionals utilize several different tools for this step as well, based on the severity and size of the dampened areas. For inaccessible areas that commonly remain damp following flooding or excessive water damage, our technicians utilize equipment like our Injectidry system to get inside of walls and dry them out entirely. Moisture reduction is crucial to prevent books from absorbing dampness or degradation.

When your restaurant falls victim to a water emergency, time is often of the essence. Contact SERVPRO of South Cobb. Our experienced IICRC trained technicians are available 24/7 for any restoration need you might have. Call us today at (770) 739-2355.

Visit https://www.smyrnaga.gov/ for more information about the city of Smyrna.

The Professional Training of SERVPRO Employees

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

All professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb go through extensive training.

There are plenty of restoration companies across the country, corporate and local alike. The most well-known restoration company is SERVPRO, due to the fact that, firstly, they’re a franchise capable of being owned by anyone. Secondly, they have an extensive training program for their employees. This training program is the core of their professionalism, by ensuring that employees show up to the site of any restoration location with the know-how to make it “Like it never even happened,” as their slogan ensures. The training program covers specific topics, including all types of restoration, such as fire, water, carpet and upholstery, and mold. There are further training courses for active employees who want to further their knowledge of the restoration field. The importance of SERVPRO’s training program is that any employee can engage in a number of beneficial classes and continue to train beyond the requirement if they chose to. By having a training program in place, SERVPRO can hire anyone dedicated to the work and teach them how to get the job done to SERVPRO’s standards. SERVPRO has been commended for this training program in the past and it’s obvious why. 

In comparison to other restoration companies, SERVPRO has the professional IICRC credentials for each of their employees due to the training program they’ve put in place. You can be assured, when hiring them, that the SERVPRO employees showing up to your home or building have gone through several hours of training to be able to do the work they’ve come to do for you. That is just one of the great differences between SERVPRO and other restoration companies. 

If you’re in need of a restoration professional, hire your local SERVPRO of South Cobb at (770) 739-2355.

Flood Damage Remediation in Austell

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Flood damage repair (770) 739-2355

We First Determine the Source of the Flooding and then Start the Remediation Process. 

When flooding in your home occurs for any reason, you will need a professional water damage restoration company such as SERVPRO to help you with the water damage clean up. Water mitigation takes several different steps to stop more damage from happening after a flood. Natural disasters or failures in plumbing can create water damage, most of which are beyond your control. However, time is of the essence in these situations in mitigating the adverse effects that flooding can have on your home. 

A lot of overflows and flood damage are caused first by freshwater, which comes directly from the faucet in Austell and is not harmful, or gray water, which is contaminated water from appliances. Floodwater and sewage water is thought of as black water and is very dangerous because of the genuine possibility for the transport of fatal pathogens. If gray and white water is not cleaned up and aired out within forty-eight hours, mold will begin to grow and cause more significant issues. Therefore, it is essential to call us at SERVPRO of South Cobb right away when you see the water has settled into your ceilings, floors, or walls. Some water mitigation techniques that should be performed include:  

• Water extraction
• Restoration of water damage
• Inspection for mold, remediation, and removal
• Carpet cleaning
• Upholstery cleaning
• Drying of your home, including flooring and contents
• Ventilation and dehumidification
• Stain and odor removal
• Antimicrobial treatment

At SERVPRO, we are available 24/7, as we understand how important water mitigation is within the first forty-eight hours. As water damage restoration IICRC trained experts, we should be the first ones out to your home. This allows us to find any signs of mold and contamination and to stop them from developing any further and creating additional damage that can be even more costly. 

We will minimize the damage by taking objects of value out of the home and cleaning the area for the total removal of excess water. Our water removal equipment is top of the line, and we always staff enough crew, so the damages are handled efficiently. Once water extraction is done, we dry and sanitize the area, so your home is left smelling fresh and clean. Lastly, we renovate the space, so the investment in your property value remains sound. 

Flood damage is never anything to take lightly, so that is why our staff at SERVPRO of South Cobb is standing by to help you whenever you need it. Just give us a call by dialing (770) 739-2355 as soon as possible after your home suffers from flood damage of any kind, and we will come and fix the problem for you.

Factors Affect Drying After Storm Damage

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Water Removal equipment used to dry Smyrna home.

To Mitigate Storm Effects, SERVPRO Suggest Immediate Water Extraction

Flooding as a result of storm damage, many objects and parts of your home will be soaked to differing degrees. Some areas may be very lightly touched by moisture, and will, as a result, dry out quickly. Others, however, may be inundated and soaked through by floodwaters, including porous materials such as carpeting and fabrics. Aside from the sheer volume of water, some other factors will also significantly affect the rate at which your home dries out. 

Water Extraction 

The most important part of the drying process for storm damage in Smyrna is bulk water removal. Our drying technology, while thorough and adaptable, is by nature capable of the removal of far less water than a traditional pumping system. For example, our truck-mounted water extractors can move up to 36,000 gallons per day, but our drying systems are often limited to around 30 gallons daily under optimal conditions. We prioritize getting IICRC trained service crews on-scene within hours of an initial call, so to be sure to keep drying times as low as possible. 

Air Movement 

We use high-powered air movers to create strong currents of air in a drying room. These capture water droplets and vapor from all surfaces and are then coupled with thermal or chemical dehumidifiers to take the water back out of the air and into a holding tank or piped directly to the exterior of the structure.

Temperature 

Temperature profoundly affects the rate at which water evaporates, and thus the drying rate of your home. The ideal drying temperature is typically anywhere from 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit, as at any lower, our air movers will not be able to pick up much moisture. Any higher and the air becomes too humid for optimal results.

Relative Humidity--RH

Finally, the most important factor is the relative humidity. Many of our tools and even the factors described above are related to and designed to accommodate moisture. One device we use to measure this important component of drying is a Thermo hygrometer. Humidity must be kept at a relatively ordinary level, so as to encourage fast evaporation and removal but also to avoid further damage to the room. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb carries advanced equipment and specialized techniques to help dry out your home as fast as possible following a storm. If your home has experienced storm damage, call us ASAP at (770) 739-2355.

Mold Attracts Many Types of Bugs in Commercial Properties

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

Mold attracts a number of bugs due to the fact that it breaks down things that bugs commonly consume. Cockroaches are attracted to moldy areas because mold breaks down paper, a cockroach's food of choice. The mold makes the paper easier to digest which allows the nasty little bugs to consume lots of it, easier, and therefore repopulate faster. A thriving environment for cockroaches is anywhere mold has reached wallpaper or a bookshelf. Likewise, booklice enjoy mold for the same reason. Moldy paper is easier to digest for booklice the same way it is for cockroaches. Mold mites, on the other hand, consume the mold directly. Though this almost seems ideal, being that they feast on the mold itself, mold mites produce hairs on their bodies that cause allergic reactions for humans. These hairs float off of their bodies and into the air and are undetectable to us. We may have a reaction to mold mites without even knowing that they’re there. The odor produced by mold attracts termites, being that termites know where there is mold there is weakened wood to consume. 

Knowing that bugs are attracted to mold is frustrating because these bugs can create damage in your commercial property just as much as the mold and water damage. What started as a simple leak or build-up now result in multiple sources of commercial damage. Because of this, the best time to act on the discovery of water damage or mold is as soon as it is found. Give us here at SERVPRO of South Cobb a call at (770) 739-2355 for any water damage restoration emergency, and we will respond right away. 

SERVPRO Is Here To Help Spot Water Damage Pt 2

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Keep an ear out for changes in typical sounds to identify if there are any problems with your plumbing system.

Here are six simple ways to spot potential water damage in a commercial building: 

Pooling/Standing Water 

A pool of water can indicate an indoor leak or a burst pipe or several issues related to water damage. If you notice moisture or water collecting in any area that doesn’t go away or gets more extensive, you may have a leak or seepage somewhere. There may also be times you see water pooling in areas of your lawn. If you see this, it may indicate a rise in the level of groundwater usually after heavy rainfall or a burst pipe underground, which could result in significant foundation water damage. 

Smell

Areas that have been exposed to moisture for long periods tend to have a very distinct musky, moldy odor. If you notice any spaces in your building or business that have the strange smell of mold or moisture, you may have water damage somewhere not immediately visible. The IICRC trained professionals here at SERVPRO of South Cobb are trained to clean, sanitize, and deodorize your commercial building after water damage resulting in a lasting odor. 

Coldness

Frequently along with the musky smell, areas that are damaged by water are usually noticeably cooler than other areas due to moisture in the walls and other materials evaporating. If there are colder areas around your building or business that are cooler than others, check for some of these other signs of water damage as well to determine if you may have a leak or seepage somewhere. 

Discoloration 

A very easy to spot indicator of water damage is discoloration of materials like the walls and ceilings of your property. Standing water in a ceiling will eventually seep through the insulation and drywall and leave a yellowish stained spot where the water has collected. Over time these areas can sag if they’re large enough and even collapse if enough water has collected and sat long enough. 

Mold 

Many sources of moisture can cause mold, and things such as bathroom condensation may cause mold that wouldn’t be extensive enough to require water damage restoration. However, mold in any area of your building is any indicator that there is too much-standing moisture that needs to be removed. Our professional technicians here at SERVPRO of South Cobb are specially trained in water damage restoration. They can adequately locate and remove all sources of mold in your building or business. 

Sound 

The final and more subtle sign of water damage to your property is sound. While sounds of moving water, dripping, and creaking may all be sounds of a perfectly normal plumbing system. It is essential to keep an ear out for changes in typical sounds to identify if there are any problems with your plumbing system or if there is a leak somewhere in your building or business. 

In the event your building or basement floods, it is best to contact a company of professionals to respond quickly and adequately to help the situation. Give us here at SERVPRO of South Cobb a call at (770) 739-2355 for any water damage restoration emergency, and we will respond right away.

SERVPRO Is Here To Help Spot Water Damage Pt 1

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Our professionals are trained to quickly locate the main water shut off is in your home or business.

There are many signs that your home or business has been damaged by water that can range from a burst pipe spraying into a hallway to something as subtle as a small dripping leak that goes unnoticed for months. No matter the source, water damage is crucial to respond quickly to restore anything damaged and prevent any further damage from being done. The problem sometimes with spotting water damage is that it isn’t always apparent, so you may not even realize you have a problem until it’s a big one. A professional water damage restoration company like us here at SERVPRO of South Cobb can detect most issues with specialized equipment and trained professional technicians, but how would you know that you need to call us in the first place? Please give us a call if you feel that your home or business may be suffering from water damage. We have the advanced equipment and expertise to turn the loss around and make it, “Like it never even happened.”

The Best Way to Protect Your Home from Water Damage

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

Dealing with water damage in your home or business can be overwhelming and costly. The average bill to repair and restore water damage to a home or business is thousands of dollars, and damage can be anywhere from the basement to the roof. You should be especially aware if you live in a flood zone; however, water damage can still occur at any time and anywhere around your property. At SERVPRO of South Cobb, we pride ourselves on our industry expertise with handling water damage and restoring your home or business to its original state. Here’s how you can best protect your home from water damage to be prepared year-round. 

It’s first best to know the most common causes of water damage to know what to look for and where to look if your home or business suffers water damage. Here’s a list of some common cause of significant water damage: 

• Roof damage (broken/missing shingles, cracked flashing, etc.)
• Burst or leaking pipes
• Leaking household appliances such as laundry machines or dishwashers 
• Extreme weather and floods 

Some things to look for when trying to determine if there is water damage in your home or business are: 

• Warped or sagging ceilings 
• Peelings paint/wallpaper
• A musty smell of mold and moisture 
• Warped floors
• Water pooling in areas of your lawn

The big secret to best protecting your property from water damage and other damages is in home maintenance. Inspect your roof. It takes the forefront of the elements 24/7 year-round. Your roof should be inspected periodically to ensure all shingles, caulk, and flashing are in place and undamaged. Your gutters should also be maintained to ensure that proper drainage is available to water running off your roof. If your gutters are clogged, and water cannot correctly escape your roof, it can pool on the roof or around your foundation, leading to potentially severe water damage. Your windows can be caulked to prevent snow and other moisture from penetrating inside during inclement weather. This also applies to indoor areas that may be exposed to water as the kitchen and bathroom by caulking things like sinks, tubs, and backsplashes so that water cannot get into the walls of your property. The best sealant to use for these indoor areas is one that is 100% silicon. Silicon caulking is waterproof, doesn’t crack over time, and is flexible, unlike acrylic caulk, which can shrink over time, allowing water through. 

While all these steps may be taken to prevent water damage from occurring, it cannot be guaranteed that water damage can be prevented. Things like natural disasters and floods arise, and water damage can still happen. However, no matter what event may occur, you can call our trained water damage restoration professionals here at SERVPRO of South Cobb, and we will make it our top priority to get your home or business back to its original state so that you can take a breath. No one wants to deal with water damage to their property, SERVPRO will be there for you. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb at (770) 739-2355 is ready to help local homeowners with flood damage. They have the advanced equipment and IICRC expertise to turn the loss around and make it, “Like it never even happened.”

Why SERVPRO is the Best Fire Restoration Company

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

The severity of fire damage puts lives on hold, ruins entire homes, and threatens the safety of families. It’s important when picking a fire restoration company, to choose one that has you as the priority. What that means is that the fire restoration process is more than just a project. For example, if you experience fire damage in your home, you can call the 24-hour SERVPRO National Customer Care Center. At any time of the day, you can call and have a SERVPRO professional listen to you explain your experience to plan the best strategy for the fire restoration process. Following this phone call, which you can make at your leisure, a team of SERVPRO fire restoration professionals will arrive at your home to make an assessment of the damage and plan the restoration process. This step is a vital part of creating an efficient plan that allows SERVPRO professionals to fix the fire damage as quickly as possible. The team will then cover the damaged areas to avoid further damage to the home, including windows, walls, and the roof. Then they will remove the smoke and soot. After it has been entirely removed, a critical cleaning and sterilization process will occur to ensure the safety of the home.

SERVPRO is an excellent company for fire restoration because they prioritize the safety of the family. At any time you need, you can call SERVPRO and receive helpful information and even begin the process of fire restoration. If you require fire damage restoration, call your local SERVPRO of South Cobb at (770) 739-2355. SERVPRO of South Cobb is an affordable option for fire damage restoration. Our IICRC professionals will assess the damage and walk you through the process required to make your home “Like it never even happened.”

What to Expect From the Water Restoration Process

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Since every flood and water damage scenario is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored to the specific conditions. However, the overall water restoration process remains the same. The process begins when you give us a call. SERVPRO of South Cobb is available 24 hours a day for any size water emergency. 

Immediate action is crucial when facing flooding or water damage, and a delay of just a few hours can drastically increase the severity of water damage left behind. While water damage can be chaotic and traumatic to deal with, SERVPRO of South Cobb has the expertise and experience to help you through a water damage disaster. 

When you give us a call, we will ask you questions to assess the situation and determine what equipment and resources will be necessary to bring. Upon arrival at the site of water damage, we begin with a detailed inspection and damage assessment of your home or property to determine the scope of the water damage to create the best plan of action. After inspection, we will identify the source of moisture in your home or business and the type of water. When dealing with water damage, there are three types of water according to their level of contamination: “Clean Water,” “Gray Water,” and “Black Water” is used to classify how contaminated the water is so that our trained SERVPRO Professionals can restore your property to industry guidelines. 

The next step of the water damage restoration process is the actual water removal. After the damage assessment and the source of moisture have been stopped, the water extraction process may begin. If the water damage is great enough to call for extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO of South Cobb can assist with an organized and efficient move-out to ensure your belongings are protected from any further damage. Our highly trained technicians will then begin the water removal process immediately once the surrounding area is cleared. Depending on the level of damage, our technicians may use equipment varying from industrial wet/dry vacuums to powerful submersible pumps. 

Once all water has been successfully removed, the drying and dehumidification process is next. While floors and walls may appear to be dry, they will be wet to the touch as most building materials such as wood and drywall retain water once submerged. Our Professionals use measurements, temperature, and humidity to determine best how much equipment such as dehumidifiers and air movers will be needed to dry your home or business. 

Most of your home or business will require professional cleaning following water damage from the floor to the ceiling. After monitoring the drying process, our technicians will clean your property’s structure, furniture, upholstery, clothing, and any other restorable items or property damaged by water. Following any kind of damage, your home or business will require cleaning, odor removal, and sanitization depending on the scenario. Our technicians here at SERVPRO South Cobb are trained to deodorize, sanitize, and dispose of damaged materials in your home or property. 

The final step following a water damage disaster is the restoration of your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. This may involve minor repairs such as replacing drywall to major repairs such as the reconstruction of various rooms or areas. Our professionals will provide immediate protective measures during the water damage restoration process, such as tarps, and will handle rebuilding all affected areas. We are a company qualified to handle the initial damage and rebuilding of the area afterward, and can guarantee to get any building back up to full functionality. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb is ready to help local homeowners with flood damage. They have the advanced equipment and expertise to turn the loss around and make it, “Like it never even happened.”

We are Cleaning Experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Cobb is here to help during this time of need during this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs on a daily basis. The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of South Cobb,(770) 739-2355

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

What Every Property Manager Needs to Know when handling a water Damage

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

The main causes of water damage in a commercial property are appliance leaks and overflowing, plumping breaks and leaks, large spills, and natural disasters infiltrating the structure of the building. One of the biggest reasons a commercial property is prone to water damage is because of a high population that runs through a building. Customers using the restroom, employees using appliances like a coffee machine or dishwasher, the large quantity of piping needed to cover an entire building. A home bathroom may be used a few times every day, but a building bathroom could be used several hundred times a day, creating a far greater opportunity for damage to occur. 

A couple of things to know about water damage in a commercial setting:

• According to the IICRC, three types of water can be a part of water damage. 

1.  Clean water damage caused by rain or clean appliance leaks.
2. Gray water damage, caused by overflowing appliances or treated water.
3. Blackwater damage caused by sewage or flooding.

• Identify recurring sources of water damage.
• Follow up with affected individuals after the restoration process has been completed.
• Reusing a restoration vendor can allow them to understand the needs of the building well.

When choosing a restoration professional to have continued service with, consider the following:

• Does their amount of equipment and workforce meet the requirement of restoring your specific location’s requirements?
• How efficiently can they restore your location so the business can move on as normal?
• How quickly can they pursue the project after receiving details and doing an assessment of the damage?
• How can you get the best price to stay in your business’ budget?

SERVPRO of South Cobb can take care of all those considerations. They are a franchisee of a large business, therefore having any needed equipment readily available. They also are local as a result of being independently owned, so they know the area and can give the best market price for the service they offer. SERVPRO is a 24/7 emergency service company allowing your needs to be met before even listing them out.

The First Thing to Do When Your South Cobb Property is Damaged

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of South Cobb for Commercial Restoration Needs

When damage occurs in a commercial property, the capacity for the spread of damage is much higher than in residential property damage. From surface area to multiple floors, there’s far more to consider when repairing a commercial property. The quantity of people using bathrooms, sinks, ovens, and other appliances raises the risk factor of accidental damage taking place. When it does occur, it can create a decent mound of stress for any property manager in charge of maintenance and restoration. 

Make sure to take the first, essential steps:

1) Take pictures of everything. You’ll want to remember each part that needs to be fixed and make sure everything is returned to normal.

2) Ensure your restoration professional has the right equipment. In order for any restoration professional to cover a large surface area or multiple floors, depending on the structure of your commercial property, they’re going to need a large quantity of equipment and workforce. Equipment includes: Dehumidifiers (for restoring humidity), air movers (for drying quickly), truck-mounted vacuums (for drying surface water), and negative air machines (for trapping contaminated air).

3) Call the right restoration professional. SERVPRO of South Cobb is an extensive restoration company, with over 1,000 pieces of restoration equipment. They know what the standards are for a professional restoration job, and they have a strong knowledge of restoration and  IICRC trained employees to bring their best effort to the table, regardless of the size of the project.

If you’re a property manager, unsure where to start with a little or big restoration job, call SERVPRO of South Cobb to take the weight off your shoulders. In just one call, you can alert SERVPRO of the necessary procedures needed to take care of the damage in a time-efficient manner and return operations to normal. While businesses are not immune to any restoration needs, time is the most valuable consideration in commercial restoration projects. Your business will be returned to normal as soon as you call SERVPRO of South Cobb.

Measuring the Size of a Potential Storm at Home

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

The most common types of storms include: thunderstorms, hail storms, blizzards, tornadoes, floods, and hurricanes.

Lightning strikes are 50,000° Fahrenheit, which is five times hotter than the surface of the sun. That’s a terrifying fact knowing how often these strikes hit the surface of the Earth. While storm videos are cool to watch, it’s less fun when the storm we’re watching are headed our way. There are many types of storms that can affect our lives. The most common types of storms include: thunderstorms, hail storms, blizzards, tornadoes, floods, and hurricanes. Each storm can make itself obvious from the formation of the sky when it occurs. For example, a thunderstorm often presents itself as an anvil shaped cloud at first, low and flat at the bottom while standing tall. An easy way to tell it’s a blizzard and not just regular snow is the visibility. Blizzards lessen the visibility for at last three hours, usually longer. Hail storms can present a variety of danger as the hail itself can be as small as peas and as large as watermelons. While larger hail can have more powerful damage, crushing cars, roofs, windows, etc, small hail can also break windows and create holes in roofs. Fortunately, storms may cause inevitable damage to our homes but not irreversible damage. Storm damage assessments are not hard to receive, especially from specialists like your local SERVPRO of South Cobb. It can be fun to know more about types of storms when we’re aware of how close a storm damage professional is, and how easy it is for a company like SERVPRO to return our home as if the damage never occurred.

Home Fire Evacuation Plan: What to do Before and After the Fire

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Do not forget your pets!!

An important part of fire safety is knowing what to do when a fire happens. For this reason, a home fire evacuation plan is a great thing to have. In the event of a sudden fire, an evacuation needs to happen quickly and efficiently while leaving as few important things behind as possible and knowing where to go. Once you are able to escape home or business that is in flames and alert authorities, your next step should be to contact a fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of South Cobb so that our professional technicians can begin the fire damage restoration process. 

Here’s what you need to do before, during, and after the fire. 

Before Evacuating

It is important to prepare properly in order to evacuate effectively. A few things you can do to prepare for a fire evacuation is to create a disaster relief kit or a go-bag. This will contain any essentials that you would need in case you had to up and leave in case of an emergency. Good things to also put in this bag would be extra cash, clothing, emergency health information, and some plastic bags to keep sensitive items safe. Having a go-bag ready to go in case of emergency can make keeping a level head in an emergent situation much easier while helping keep you safe. 

It is important that everyone in the household is also on the same page in the event of fire damage. Everyone should have the same meetup location such as a neighbors house in case everyone has to leave in a hurry. In the event that a fire is large enough to affect multiple homes or a large area, it is good to also have a meeting location in several directions. 

During an Evacuation 

It is important to already know what to do in the event of a fire so that you can make decisions to best keep you and your loved ones safe. It is important you maintain clear communication with everyone in your home in the event of a fire; power lines may be down or phones may not be working in some situations or others may not be able to get to you. It’s important to listen to important updates from the news and authorities that are keeping up with the situation. 

Do not forget your pets and try to keep them in a place they’re accessible so that you can easily retrieve them should you need to evacuate your property.

After an Evacuation

It’s important to wait to inspect your property after a fire until after you are permitted to do so by authorities. Once you are allowed back within the distance of your home or business, your next step should be to contact a professional fire damage restoration company. SERVPRO of South Cobb is ready and available for fire damage restoration and will immediately lend aid to the recovery process. Experiencing this kind of scenario can be extremely frightening and overwhelming. Leave it to the professionals here at SERVPRO to help you restore your home from smoke and fire damage at (770)-739-2355

Does Your Insurance Cover South Cobb Water Damage?

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Home water damage insurance

Approximately 98% of basements will experience water damage in their lifetime. The inevitability isn’t too surprising considering basements are underground and therefore prone to things like gravity and the consequences of whatever happens in the home above. Considering this statistic, it’s safe to say that understanding the processes of both the water damage itself and the restoration required to fix it is genuinely useful for homeowners. 

Here’s what is important to know about water damage.

First off, water damage insurance and flood insurance are different. If you live in an area not prone to floods, you don’t need to get flood insurance just to protect your home from water damage. They’re different insurance types entirely. In addition, not all water damage is actually insured. For instance, water damage related to neglect of the property may not be covered the way a sudden disaster’s effects would be. Once water damage has impacted the home, in any area, call insurance immediately. The sooner the better since they need the complete details in order to determine the cause, the damage, and therefore pay the restoration company. If you find dealing with insurance a pain, no worries. SERVPRO of South cobb can help you with insurance in addition to repairing the site of the water damage.

Once insurance is dealt with, there are a few other things to consider. Some water damage, depending on the source, can be polluted and dangerous to be in or around. It is not recommended to explore the damage personally, especially if it’s a large quantity of water and in a location like a basement. In addition, the moment the water damage happens it is getting worse and worse every minute. That is why there is a sense of urgency that comes with water damage. More than the water, the dangers of water damage come with water the water causes. This includes mold growth, structural damage, destruction of personal items. The sooner the area of damage can be dried and restored, the better off the home is. The same way you wouldn’t avoid going to the doctor if a sudden pain erupted in your body, your home needs similar urgency to keep its integrity and continue to serve you and your family in a safe way.

In case of a water damage emergency, consider SERVPRO of South Cobb. They can assist you with your insurance, be at the site within twenty-four hours, and use the most powerful possible equipment to return your home to normal in no time.

How Does Smoke Affect the Body?

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke inhalation irritates the respiratory tract lining which can result in the collapse of the airway.

Inside smoke from a fire their are several chemical irritants, such as chlorine, ammonia, hydrogen chloride, and sulfur dioxide. Smoke inhalation irritates the respiratory tract lining which can result in the collapse of the airway. Some people are more prone to bodily damage from smoke. Older adults may have weaker internal organs which can be harmed quicker from smoke inhalation. Because children and teenagers’ bodies are still developing, smoke can affect them more intensely than a fully developed adult. Anyone with heart or lung disease or diabetes can have their conditions be triggered by smoke damage, resulting in a stroke or heart attack. Pregnant women are at danger themselves due to the changes in their bodies, but the fetus can also be heavily affected, preventing normal development stages from occurring.

Smoke first affects anyone inhaling it by burning the eyes, making the nose runny, inducing coughing and wheezing. If chest pain or fatigue occurs there might be more severe damage being experienced, and people with such symptoms need to be removed from the room or building as quickly as possible to prevent fainting or cardiac arrest.

Even a strong, fully developed adult can be at risk for severe damage due to the chemicals in the air as mentioned before. This is why firefighters wear masks when entering a burning building, and why it is not recommended to attempt to save anyone without the proper gear. Carbon monoxide poisoning first causes the person to faint and then continues to enter the body until it has shut down the function of the major organs, killing them after they’ve gone unconscious.

This is important information to know in case of a fire in your home. While your natural instinct may be to save other people within the home, staying any longer within a burning building can cause unseen damage. Immediately call the fire department and exit the building. They have the gear to enter and exit in a safe manner while keeping everyone affected by a fire safe.

While the most important consideration following a fire is the safety of the family when it is time to repair the damage, hire your local SERVPRO. Firefighters respond to a fire currently in progress, and SERVPRO of South Cobb responds to everything that follows.

Putting Out Small Interior Fires

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Things we use on a daily basis could lead to disaster.

The source of each individual fire changes the way the fire must be dealt with. Small fires, which are usually started by cooking or electrical outlets, can usually be put out by an individual. In case you experience a small fire within your home, office, or building, here is the way to deal with each type of fire.

Electrical fires occur due to dysfunctional or misused electrical outlets, cords, and appliances. If the fire is due to a broken cord, pour baking soda on the cord. Fires caused by outlets or appliances can be put out with a Class C fire extinguisher. It’s important that you never use water on an electrical fire due to the possibility of being shocked as a result.

Fireplace fires are not dangerous since they’re in a contained area, but if you no longer need the fire to be going you should put it out before leaving or going to sleep. In order to put out a fireplace fire, poke at the wood and cover the coals in order to take away the fuel for the fire. In addition, you may use baking soda to put it out by sprinkling some on the fire.

Cooking or gas fires can be stopped by placing a lid over the pot to stop oxygen from reaching the fire. Turn off the gas supply to stop it from spreading. Fire blankets work well for these situations.

If a small fire occurs in your home, office, or building, call your local  SERVPRO of South Cobb at (770) 739-2355. SERVPRO of South Cobb has professionals who know how to remove smoke damage and make the area affected by the fire look “Like it never even happened.”

The Process of Mold Removal

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

The process of mold removal can only be done well by mold removal specialists.

If you’ve hired mold removal specialists to come to your home, you may want to know precisely what they’re doing in terms of removing the mold. Here is a brief explanation of the process so you can understand what’s happening to your home.

Since mold comes from moisture, due to a water damage issue, the first step is the removal of the moisture or water damage. This will prevent more mold from growing so that once the initial mold has been removed, none will grow back. Following this, your mold removal specialists will isolate the area of contamination. This is to ensure that no mold spores can move from the affected area to a new area, creating issues later on. In order to do so, they will close the windows and doors of the affected area during the mold removal process. Then they will remove the materials of which the mold grew, including drywall, carpet, or other parts of the house where the mold has developed. These materials will be safely removed by wrapping it up and properly disposing of it. Once the mold is gone, they’ll clean the area in order to ensure no mold spores have remained. Once that has been done, they’ll dry the area. They will then repair and ensure that the room looked as it did before the mold damage. 

If you haven’t found your mold removal specialist yet, call your local SERVPRO of South Cobb at (770) 739-2355. SERVPRO of South Cobb has been doing mold removal for many years and many homes, buildings, and more. They know the mold removal process better than anyone else and will ensure your home has been restored to make it “Like it never even happened.”

The Professional Training of SERVPRO Employees

1/13/2020 (Permalink)

Hire someone who will treat your home as if it were their own.

There are plenty of restoration companies across the country, corporate and local alike. The most well known restoration company is SERVPRO, due to the fact that, firstly, they’re a franchise capable of being owned by anyone, and secondly, they have an extensive training program for their employees. This training program is the core of their professionalism, by ensuring that employees show up to the site of any restoration location with the know-how to make it “Like it never even happened,” as their slogan ensures. The training program covers specific topics, including all types of restoration, such as fire, water, carpet and upholstery, and mold. There are further training courses for active employees who want to further their knowledge of the restoration field. The importance of SERVPRO’s training program is that any employee can engage in a number of beneficial classes and continue to train beyond the requirement if they chose to. By having a training program in place, SERVPRO can hire anyone dedicated to the work and teach them how to get the job done to SERVPRO’s standards. SERVPRO has been commended for this training program in the past and it’s obvious why. 

In comparison to other restoration companies, SERVPRO has the professional credentials for each of their employees due to the training program they’ve put in place. You can be assured, when hiring them, that the SERVPRO employees showing up to your home or building has gone through several hours of training to be able to do the work they’ve come to do for you. That is just one of the great differences between SERVPRO and other restoration companies. 

If you’re in need of a restoration professional, hire your local SERVPRO of South Cobb at (770) 739-2355. SERVPRO of South Cobb has employees who have gone through the well known training program of SERVPRO and can offer you the most professional restoration services.

Causes of Commercial Water Damage to Watch Out For

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen anywhere.

There are a lot of things to consider when maintaining a commercial property. Of course, safety is managed by laws and requirements that every commercial property must maintain, however unexpected damage is still possible. One case of unexpected commercial property damage is water damage. Commercial water damage can not only be a safety threat, but be incredibly costly to repair. So here are some possible causes of commercial water damage to watch out for.

Windows with cracks or weak construction can allow leaks from weather to invade the interior of the building. Make sure windows are strong and up to date. The foundation of the building is an easy place for water damage to occur since it’s low to the ground where water runoff or storm build up can accumulate. Ensure regular check ups of the integrity of the foundation, including cracks and leaky pipes. Sprinkler systems are required in buildings for safety reasons, but nonfunctional sprinkler systems can pose a threat by unexpectedly turning on and soaking rooms. Like the other causes, make sure someone is constantly assuring the quality of the sprinkler system. The answer to all of these possible causes is to invest in a person or team who can ensure the maintenance of the commercial property.

If you own or maintain a commercial property that has experienced water damage, no matter how much, call your local SERVPRO of South Cobb at (770) 739-2355. SERVPRO of South Cobb has dealt with commercial water damage before and knows exactly how to fix and restore your commercial property to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Learn How to Prevent House Fires with These 5 Tips

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Firefighters attempt to put out a blazing fire.

Your home is a safe and sacred place for you and your family to spend time together and build memories to last a lifetime. With such an important role in your life and the lives of your loved ones, it’s hard to imagine losing your home. Unfortunately, many families lose their homes to fires every year. Even worse, in many cases, house fires are entirely preventable when the proper protective steps are taken. Thankfully, for those wondering how to prevent house fires, getting equipped with the right fire safety information and by following helpful fire prevention tips, there are quick and easy steps to take. Use the following fire safety facts to keep making unforgettable memories in your home.

Fire Prevention Tip #1: Test Smoke Alarms

Likely not a big surprise to anyone wondering how to prevent house fires, one of the most important fire prevention tips to follow is to regularly test all smoke alarms in the home. Smoke alarms are crucial in the event of a fire, as they immediately alert everyone in the house that a fire is imminent or already underway by emitting a loud alarm once smoke is detected. A functioning smoke alarm not only allows you and your loved ones to get to safety, but they may also give you a greater chance of saving your home from irreparable damage by alerting you right away of the presence of a fire. Testing a smoke alarm is quick and easy, as every alarm features a small button that can be pressed to test if new batteries are needed. Be sure to read the full fire safety information that comes with the smoke alarms you purchase to ensure they are installed and used correctly.

Fire Prevention Tip #2: Don’t Leave Open Flames Unattended

House fires can occur in a matter of seconds and when you least expect it. Many house fires start quickly and without warning because of an unattended flame in the kitchen, living room, or bedroom. Those managing busy households in the evenings know that it’s easy to get distracted when being pulled in multiple directions. Helping kids with homework and straightening up messes all while also preparing dinner for the family can be incredibly dangerous. Taking your eyes off of cooking food even for a moment can have serious consequences in the form of a house fire. One of the most crucial fire prevention tips, be sure to always stay in the kitchen while preparing food and avoid any and all distractions. If you need to leave the kitchen even for just a minute, immediately turn off burners that are in use. Or, ask another member of the family to watch over the food until you return.

Another cause of many house fires are fireplaces. Among the fire safety facts to keep in mind is that it is easy for burning embers or sparks to escape a fireplace and land on flammable surfaces like the carpet or nearby furniture. When using the fireplace, make sure someone is always in the room watching over the fire. When putting out the fire, be sure that all ashes are completely cool before disposing of them.

Finally, another of the most important fire prevention tips to keep in mind is that candles should only be used with strict supervision. A best practice for how to prevent house fires, keep candles far away from anything that could potentially catch, such as curtains and blankets. If you’re using candles at night, be sure not to fall asleep before extinguishing the flame. If leaving the room for any length of time, blow the candle out.

Fire Prevention Tip #3: Regularly Clean Ovens and Stoves

Another of the most important fire prevention tips is to regularly clean ovens and stoves. An often overlooked piece of fire safety information, ovens and stoves pose a serious risk to safety when they are not properly tended to. Though likely on the family list of least favorite chores, cleaning ovens and stoves can help to prevent a potentially life-threatening house fire. Fires caused by ovens or stoves most often happen when food particles that have fallen off of dishes and cook wear get too hot and catch. After each use of your oven or stove, make sure to clean up any visible or particularly large pieces of food that have fallen while cooking. Follow this up with a deeper clean on a regular basis that involves reaching small spaces in and around burners, the surfaces on oven racks, and the oven floor where food often gathers.

Fire Prevention Tip #4: Check Your Dryer

Another of the more common sources of house fires to keep in mind when reviewing how to prevent house fires are clothes dryers. Fires can occur with dryers when lint and other debris collects in vents, gets too hot during the drying process, and subsequently catches on fire. To prevent house fires caused by dryers there are two important steps to take. First, follow the instructions and fire safety information provided during purchase of the dryer to be sure all vents are installed properly. Second, clean out the lint filter after each use. Following these fire prevention tips that only take a few seconds can save you and your family from experiencing a house fire.

Fire Prevention Tip #5: Maintain Cords

With an increasing dependence on electronics for many of our daily tasks, it’s not uncommon to always have something plugged into an outlet. Fire safety facts include the reality that the cords used to charge our electronics pose another risk for house fires. Among your list of fire prevention tips, be sure to include regularly checking the condition of cords, looking for damage such as exposed wires or frays. If any damage is noticed, stop using the cord right away and replace it immediately.

Fire Damage Repair and Restoration from SERVPRO

Even when paying close attention to fire safety facts and following fire prevention tips for your home, house fires still occur. In the event of a house fire, you want to enlist the help of professionals to help remove signs of fire damage and restore your home in like-new condition. SERVPRO of South Cobb is a nationally accredited and recognized brand with professionals highly experienced in fire damage repair and restoration. Our services can’t be beat, and we guarantee complete satisfaction. Contact us today to discuss what sets SERVPRO of South Cobb as a leader in the restoration industry.

Best Practices When Using a Humidifier

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Maintaining the perfect environment for each member of your family in your home is not always the easiest task. From regulating the temperature, being respectful of noise levels, and considering others when turning on and off lights are just of the few ways in which we attempt to make homes more comfortable. However, how you ever considered the humidity level in your house? Knowing when to use a humidifier in your home can be a game-changer, giving those who need it a much more pleasant space to live. Make sure to follow to follow humidifier best practices to ensure safety.

What is a Humidifier?

Simply put, humidifiers release moisture back into the air when the air is particularly dry. Therefore, when deciding when to use a humidifier, consider especially dry months like those in winter. Each humidifier comes equipped with a large tank of water at the base. When this small machine is turned on, air is forced through a filter where it then evaporates some of the water in the base. This process successfully increases the humidity level in the surrounding area. Maintaining a humidifier requires very little work, as most machines today are completely self-regulating. In fact, the machine will detect the specific level of humidity at a given time, releasing more or less evaporated water as needed.

Humidifiers come in a number of different sizes based on the specific needs of an individual or family. There are small, tabletop size humidifiers ideal for increasing the humidity level of a single room. A console humidifier will cover a bit more ground, maintaining a comfortable humidity level across a few rooms. Lastly, a whole house humidifier, as the name indicates, will maintain the humidity level throughout the entire house.

Humidifiers are also available in cold air or warm air. Making a decision when to use a humidifier and which type between warm air vs cold air humidifiers really comes down to personal preference, as they are both equally as effective. In the debate between warm air vs cold air humidifiers, some things to consider are that cool mist humidifiers tend to use less energy because they have no heating elements, and they are less hazardous for small children. On the other hand, warm mist humidifiers are usually quieter, and can really help out on chilly winter nights.

Benefits of Humidifiers

In determining if and when to use a humidifier, consider the numerous benefits they offer. For one, humidifiers can help to reduce your heating costs. Humidifiers can reduce energy costs because they not only make the air moister, they also make the air warmer as well. Because most humidifiers are energy efficient, you will use up less energy than if you were to keep your heat on. Another benefit to using humidifiers is that they can reduce experiences of static electricity shocks. Most often, we experience static shows as a result of coming into contact with dry and dusty carpets. However, when moisture is added back into the air and surrounding surfaces, this is less likely to happen.

One of the most important benefits for why and when to use a humidifier is the positive impact they can have on health. It is generally recommended that the humidity level in our living spaces sits between 30% and 50%. Unfortunately, many of us to do not have humidity levels in this range in our homes. Without the right humidity level, occupants of a home are at risk for issues including respiratory irritation, asthma, and even infection. Additionally, using a humidifier can have unexpected benefits such as reduced snoring, moist skin, and fewer allergy symptoms.

When to Use a Humidifier?

How can you tell when to use a humidifier? While humidifiers are mostly associated with winter, you could actually need a humidifier in summer. There are a few signs you can look out for to figure out when to use a humidifier, and whether a humidifier is needed in summer or winter. If you or someone in your family is experiencing issues including chronic runny nose, sinus congestion, dry throat, flare-ups of asthma, allergy flare-ups, nose bleeds, or hay fever symptoms while inside the house, there is likely not enough moisture in the air. Also, if you notice that your skin has become drier than usual despite the consistent use of lotion, dry air may be to blame. Additionally, if your partner’s storing has kicked into overdrive, they may be suffering from the effects of low moisture in the air.

Humidifier Best Practices

If you’ve determined why and when to use a humidifier, and have made the decision to purchase one for your home, there are some very important best practices to keep in mind. Best practices when to use a humidifier include:

1. Clean frequently: one of the most important practices for how to maintain a humidifier is to clean it frequently. Cleaning a humidifier is a must because harmful mold and other contaminants can begin to grow within the machine. Mold grows in moist environments, and humidifiers produce moisture, so they are at particular risk for growth. For cleaning a humidifier, you can simply use vinegar, cloth, and q-tips to get into small nooks and crannies. Make sure to completely disassemble the humidifier, and let each component soak in vinegar for about 30 minutes. Each model comes with recommendations for frequency of cleanings.
2. Use clean water: Another important best practice when to use a humidifier for how to maintain a humidifier is to always use clean water in the machine reservoir. Water can carry various levels of minerals, that, if distributed in the air, can cause bacteria and respiratory issues. Opt for cold water over warm water, as it typically contains fewer minerals. Before each use of the humidifier, empty the tank and fill with all new water.
3. Find the right humidity level: how and when to use a humidifier in your home will be determined by how humid the air already is. If you notice condensation gathering on the surfaces in your home, the humidity level is likely too high and you should probably turn off the humidifier. This excess moisture can lead to water damage, including nasty mold growth.

Insulating A Basement Ceiling and Why It's Important To The Health Of Your Home

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

A lot goes into to keep your home comfortable for you and your family. From ensuring your HVAC system is in working order for warm and cool weather to keeping your air quality strong through air duct cleanings, and everything in between. When it comes to regulating the temperature in your home, one of the most important components lying throughout your house is insulation. While there are places in your house where insulation is a no brainer, many are unsure of whether or not to add insulation to their basement ceiling. So, what are the insulation options for how to insulate a basement ceiling, and how much does it cost to insulate basement ceilings? It turns out that insulating a basement ceiling should be on your to-do list, as it will not only keep you comfortable but can also save you money on energy bills.

What is Basement Ceiling Insulation?

Simply put, basement ceiling insulation is any material that is specifically designed to prevent heat loss in addition to heat gain. During cold winter months properly installed insulation will hold in the heat coming from your HVAC system and, during balmy summer days, will make sure excess heat doesn’t get into your home. There are a variety of types of 

Types of Insulation

There are a variety of types of basement ceiling insulation available on the market for those asking what type of insulation for the basement ceiling to use. What type of insulation for the basement ceiling to use will depend on factors including budget, home layout, and whether you want to attempt to install the installation yourself versus hiring a professional company. Each basement ceiling insulation option for how to insulate a basement ceiling comes with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common types of household basement ceiling insulations used for hanging insulation in basements include batts and blankets, loose-fill insulation, insulated panels, and spray foams.

Batts and blankets: The most common type of basement ceiling insulation and option for how to insulate a basement ceiling is to use batts and blankets and is the most accessible form of insulation for the average homeowner looking to do the job themselves. Batts and blankets come in roll form, making them easy to transport as needed. This type of basement ceiling insulation must be carefully stuffed into spaces around pipes, wires, and other fixtures in order to increase efficiency. Unfortunately, with this form of insulation, it’s easy to miss spots that need insulation, losing its overall effectiveness. Some of the pros of batts and blankets include easy installation, transportability, and ability to fit in and around studs, rafters, and other fixtures. Cons of batts and blankets include needing to be cut by hand, some types retain moisture, and some types are itchy during installation.

Loose-fill insulation: Another option for how to insulate a basement ceiling is to use loose fill insulation, which is made up of fluffy fibrous strands that are blown into small nooks and crannies. Loose-fill insulation is primarily used in spaces such as attics and walls, though can also be used effectively in ceilings as well. Some of the pros to loose-fill basement ceiling insulation is that some forms like loose-fill fiberglass are very lightweight, can be installed by almost anyone, and loose-fill cellulose is highly effective in all temperatures. On the other hand, some loose-fill insulation is so fluffy it can lose effectiveness in very cold temperatures.

Structural Insulated Panels: Next on the list of options for how to insulate a basement ceiling is to use structural insulated panels (SIPs), which are used to insulate the entire surface of a wall. SIPs are primarily used for new ceilings, walls, floors, and roofs in areas including basements and crawl spaces. Some of the pros of SIPs include that they are lightweight, highly energy efficient, and relatively easy to install. The primary con of SIPs is that they are more expensive than most types of insulation.

Spray foam insulation: Finally, another common type of household insulation for how to insulate a basement ceiling is spray foam insulation. As the name tells, spray foam is adhered in liquid form and then expands to fill cracks and gaps, thereby preventing air leaks. The main pros of spray foam insulation is that it is very effective in stopping the movement of air and moisture because it so securely fills cracks and gaps. Cons of spray foam is that for this type, hanging insulation in basement typically requires professional installation, which raises the price.

Why is Insulation Important

Because adding insulation is an investment, before figuring out the steps and options for how to insulate a basement ceiling you might be asking yourself, why is insulating a basement ceiling important? The answer is that an uninsulated basement inevitably leads to some level of heat loss. When heat is lost out of your home, especially when your heat is turned on to keep your home warm, you’re wasting energy and increasing pricey energy bills. This happens because warm air seeks out cooler spaces, so the warm air pumping into your living spaces above will begin to flow into the basement where it is cooler. The air then in turns seeks out even cooler spots, heading towards outside where it is colder. When insulation is in place, the warm air is not able to escape and will circulate back throughout desired areas.

The cost to Insulate Basement Ceiling

Once of the most important factors in how to insulate a basement ceiling is the actual cost to insulate basement ceilings. When making the decisions, homeowners need to compare how much they’d spend on energy bills without insulation with the cost to insulate basement ceilings and the expected benefits that will result. While the exact dollar amounts for energy bills with and without basement ceiling insulation vary from house to house, in general, most homeowners have found a decrease in their energy bills following the installation of basement ceiling insulation, making the initial investment cost to insulate basement ceiling worth it.

How To Clean A Basement Floor Drain

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

mold growthThere are so many areas of the home to care for, and there’s no denying that most of our attention is focused on the living spaces we use most regularly. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for issues lurking in the spaces we visit less frequently, especially the basement. Basement areas are particularly at risk for a number of reasons, especially for water damage. One problem many homeowners face is a clogged basement floor drain. So, what is a floor drain and what are the steps for how to clean a basement floor drain? Read on to learn what is a floor drain, how it gets clogged, and steps on how to clean a basement floor drain.

What is a Floor Drain?

Having a stronger understanding of what is a floor drain can help you best prevent clogs. Basement floor drains serve an important purpose, which is to act as an outlet for any water that enters the area. For example, condensation for your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, water leaking through the foundation of your home after a heavy rain, or water draining from the water heater all rely on the floor drain to prevent flooding. An effective floor drain is situated at the lowest point in your home to facilitate the flow of water and is typically connected to your house’s sewer system. In some cases, a floor drain can also be connected to a sump pit or sewer pit outfitted with an ejector pump. In these cases, the floor drains lead to a pit that uses a pump to lift the water outside of your home.

What Causes Basement Floor Drains?

The most important question to ask when wondering how to clean a basement floor drain is what actually caused the clog in the first place. It may come as no surprise that a basement drain clogged with a buildup of dirt or debris is the most common issue. Over time as your floor drain drains water flowing into your home from various sources, dirt and debris will begin to build and result in a basement drain clogged with an obstruction. A main line clog can occur in different spots within the floor draining system, such as the house drain, house trap, or house sewer.

Another issue that can occur with a basement floor drain, is that you could experience water coming up through the basement floor drain. Water coming up through basement floor drain can happen when a heavy rainstorm leads to a surcharge in the drain system. The surcharge could also take place in the public sewer system. Either way, you could be left dealing with water damage.

Signs of Clogged Floor Drains

One of the most obvious signs of a basement drain clogged up and in need of cleaning is a backup of water that won’t flow down the drain. If you notice standing water around the floor drain in your basement, it is not in working order and likely has a clog that requires cleaning. When a basement drain is clogged in your home, it’s important to address this issue as soon as possible, as standing water can lead to water damage in your basement, including water damage to your floors and walls. Additionally, water damage is a primary cause of mold growth and is common in basements due to their typically moist environment. A basement drain clogged and resulting in mold growth is a serious risk to individuals living in a house, as ingesting or inhaling certain types of allergenic and toxigenic molds can lead to respiratory issues. Another risk of water damage caused by clogged floor drains is structural damage. When wood and other surfaces become wet, they lose durability and can start to break down.

Another sign of a floor drain that needs to be cleaned is an unpleasant floor drain odor. This unmistakable floor drain odor will be obvious, and will likely smell like the sewer your floor drain connects to.

Steps to Clean the Floor Drain

Now that you know what is a floor drain and causes for clogs in floor drains, it’s time to learn how to clean a basement floor drain. For this cleaning, it is recommended that you contact a professional to get the job done properly and efficiently. If you decide to take on the job yourself, the first step is to gather the materials you’ll need throughout the process. What you’ll need for how to clean a basement floor drain are:

• Rubber gloves and facemask
• Plastic bag
• Screwdriver
• Pot for boiling water
• Bucket
• Vinegar and baking soda - have a gallon of vinegar and pound of baking soda on hand, these materials will work together to act as a floor drain cleaner

Once you have your materials gathered, you can take the following steps for how to clean a basement floor drain. First, using the screwdriver remove the grated top accessible on the floor of your basement. In most cases the floor drain cover is secured by screws, however, you may just be able to lift the top off using just your hands.

After the cover has been removed, conduct a quick inspection of the drain, examining for any buildups of dirt or debris. This is an essential step in how to clean a basement floor drain, as most backups are caused by debris. With rubber gloves on, work to clear out as much gunk as you can and disposing of what you pull out into the plastic bag.

The next step is to flush out the drain using your pot of boiling water. After pouring down the boiling water, let it sit for about 15 minutes. For a homemade floor drain cleaner, sprinkle in some of the baking soda to coat the sides of the drain, then pour in the vinegar. The vinegar will effectively kill bacteria and remove the unpleasant odor. You should let the vinegar sit in the floor drain for about ten minutes. Once it’s done sitting, rinse the vinegar out using more boiling water. It may be necessary to repeat these steps a few time to get all of the gunk and odor out of the floor drain.

The final step in the process for how to clean a basement floor drain is to clean the drain cover, then replace using the screws you removed. It is a good idea to clean the floor drain on a regular basis to prevent future clogs and minimize the risk of backups and water damage.

Dirty Air Ducts: When Is It Time For An Air Duct Cleaning?

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Dirty Air Ducts: When Is It Time For An Air Duct Cleaning?

As a homeowner, there is so much to stay on top of in order to keep your house in working order to keep you and your family safe and comfortable. While it’s easy to keep up with tasks that you can see, like dirty laundry and vacuuming, what about those parts of the house that need attention, but are out of site? We’re talking about your heating ventilation and air conditioning(HVAC) system. It’s true that many homeowners give little thought to the condition of their HVAC systems simply because the intricate network of tubing and fixtures lies within the ceilings and walls of most houses. But did you know that issues like mold growth in central AC unit, high energy bills, and respiratory issues can all occur because of dirty air ducts? For this reason, it’s important to conduct regular checks and maintenance around your HVAC system.

Read on to learn how to tell when it’s time for an air duct cleaning, and what steps to take if you think you need one.

What are Air Ducts?

What exactly are air ducts anyway? Air ducts are the circulatory system of your house that allows for the distribution of hot and cold air as needed throughout the various spaces of your home. Most air duct systems are built within the ceilings or walls of a home for aesthetic reasons. There are two primary types of ductwork available for homeowners to choose from: flexible and rigid ductwork.

Flexible ducts are usually made of a wire coil that is covered with a bendable plastic, that is then fitted with a layer of insulation. Flexible ductwork is most suitable for spaces where a little give, or flexibility, is necessary. Flexible ducts are a little easier and quicker to install than rigid ductwork, and also cost less.

Rigid ductwork can be made from a variety of materials including, fiberglass, fiberboard, and sheet metal. As the name hints, rigid ductwork does not offer the same flexibility of flexible ductwork. Rigid ductwork can be constructed in various shapes and sizes but is known for being particularly strong and durable.

Do Air Ducts Need Cleaning?

You may be asking yourself do air ducts need cleaning, really? The answer is yes. Remedying dirty air ducts is important for a number of reasons. For one, dirty air ducts can waste energy and lead to higher energy bills. This happens when a significant buildup of dust and debris in your ductwork makes it more difficult for air to flow into living spaces to keep you comfortable. When this happens, your HVAC system must work harder than usual, expending energy it wouldn’t have to if the dirty air ducts were clean. As you can imagine, the more energy the system uses, the higher the bill you receive each month.

Another important reason to keep your air ducts clean is that with dirty air ducts health problems are likely. This is because debris and dust coming from air ducts can result in respiratory and allergy problems for anyone living in the house. When your HVAC system is engaged, and the air is flowing, dust can become airborne. When the dust coming from air ducts is inhaled, it can irritate the body causing symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, wheezing, itchy eyes, sore throat, and more. In particular, with mold in air ducts, health problems are a risk. Mold in central AC unit is common, because of the moisture produced. If you suspect mold in central AC unit, contact a professional as soon as possible.

A final reason why it’s important to keep air ducts clean is that regular maintenance prevents costly repairs in the future. Having dirty air ducts taken care of gives you or a professional the opportunity to inspect the components of your HVAC system to ensure everything is in working order. When issues are caught early, you can save yourself from hefty repair bills.

Signs of Dirty Air Ducts

So how can you tell if you have dirty air ducts in need of cleaning? Keep an eye out for these tell-tale signs.

1. Dust and debris around vents. One of the most obvious signs you have dirty air ducts is dirty air vents. With dirty air vents, you’ll notice debris and dust coming from air ducts that collect on and around vents. Dust coming from air ducts and onto vents shows that a significant amount of contaminants are circulating throughout your home, and the buildup inside the air ducts has reached a bad level. Make sure to do a thorough scan of all vents, including

2. Mold growth. Dirty air ducts health problems are a real risk. Believe it or not, visible mold growth can be a sign that your air ducts need cleaning. Mold growing in and around vents is a strong indicator that you have dirty air ducts, and you should call a professional immediately to remediation. In addition to vents, mold in central AC unit can happen as well. When the AC unit is engaged, it can produce moisture that in turn leads to growth of mold in the central AC unit. Without remedying mold in air ducts health problems can result that can become dangerous.

3. You don’t remember having an air duct cleaning. If you can’t remember the last time you had your air ducts cleaned, or even if you’ve ever had them cleaned before, you likely have dirty air ducts. Fortunately, it is only recommended that you have an air duct cleaning once every 5 to 7 years. However, you’re likely to remember this process taking place. If you don’t remember your last air duct cleaning, make the call to schedule an appointment.

Dust coming from air ducts, mold growth in components of the HVAC system, and pricey energy bills are no joke. If you spot any of the signs of dirty air ducts mentioned, contact a professional air duct cleaning company today to schedule an appointment. Specialists will conduct an examination to determine the extent of dirt in your air ducts, then create a comprehensive plan to get your ducts in like-new condition again.

Cold Weather Tips For Your Home

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Cold weather preparation of your home is extremely vital in making sure that you can enjoy the winter months.

There is a lot to look forward to during the cooler months. However, without properly preparing your house for winter weather, your time could be spent making costly repairs to your home as a result of cold weather instead of enjoying fun activities. Making adequate preparations in and around your house is key. But just where do you start? Use the following cold weather tips for home to get your home ready to take on the cold without suffering any damage.

Cold Weather Tips for Home: What to Do to Prepare

Without properly protecting your home, you can experience issues such as burst pipes, water damage, high energy bills, uncomfortable temperatures, and more. Fortunately, with the right winter home maintenance tips and preparation in the weeks and months leading up to cold weather, you can enjoy a relaxing, uneventful winter season. Some of the most important cold weather tips for home necessary for preparing your house for winter weather are to:

Protect the Pipes: One of the most important cold weather tips for home is to protect the pipes in your house. When water freezes, it expands. During cold weather, the water in your pipes can freeze and expand, resulting in cracked or completely burst pipes. Additionally, you may experience a burst pipe when water builds up behind a chunk of ice. Burst pipes can cause extensive damage in your home, including water damage to walls and floors, flooding, and mold growth.

But just how to protect pipes from freezing? To prevent frozen pipes, there are a few cold weather tips for home to take. First, disconnect and drain any hoses sitting outside. Store the hose safely for the winter in a warmer space such as a garage or basement. Next on how to protect pipes from freezing, insulate any exposed pipes to regulate temperature and prevent them from bursting. Another on the list of cold weather tips for home for your pipes is to drip faucets. If wondering how many faucets should I let drip, it depends. A good rule of thumb is to let hot and cold faucets in bathrooms and kitchens drip.

Clear Gutters: When gutters are not cleared during cold weather, they can form ice dams. Ice dams are created when heat from the roof melts snow on top of it, which then drains to the edges of the house and refreezes. When gutters and downspouts are clogged with leaves and other debris, water cannot properly drain and will instead flow through cracks leading into your home. Key to preparing your house for winter weather is to clear gutters so that water can successfully drain from the roof and away from cracks in the roof and in the foundation of your house.

Mind the Fireplace: Who doesn’t love a warm fire in the winter? Preparing your house for winter weather also means that before you light up, you should make sure the fireplace and chimney are clean. If debris is left in the fireplace or chimney, it can potentially catch fire and cause a serious threat to your personal safety and home. If you are unfamiliar as to how to properly clean your fireplace and chimney, enlist the help of a professional chimney sweep to get the job done.

Check Heating Sources: In preparation for cold weather, among the top cold weather tips is to check that your heat is working properly. This entails checking your furnace by engaging the blower. You will also want to change the filter in your furnace as the start of the cold weather season, then every few months after. Without a properly cleaned filter, your house won’t warm up as efficiently. Further, check that your HVAC system is clean and free of dirt and debris. If not clean, dirty air ducts can cause harmful contaminants to circulate throughout your home when your heat is turned on. Check for visible dirt on air vents, one of the most obvious signs of dirty air ducts.

Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: During the winter months, your home is at a higher risk for house fires if you enjoy using your fireplace, candles, and cooking large holiday meals. Because these winter activities involved the use of open flames, one of the recommended winter home maintenance tips is to make sure smoke detectors are all in working order to keep your family safe in the event of a fire. Also, make sure to install a carbon monoxide detector. The risk of carbon monoxide exposure increases during winter months. What makes this gas particularly dangerous and lethal is that it has no color or odor.  

Inspect Your Roof: In many states, with winter comes snow and rainfall. This can leave you at risk for flooding and other types of water damage if there are any cracks or holes in the roof of your house. Also important for preparing your house for winter weather is to make sure to inspect your roof a couple months before the winter weather sets in to ensure you have enough time for any repairs. Water damage can be particularly unpleasant, leading to mold and a pricey restoration process.

Seal Windows and Doors: Among important cold weather tips for home and cold weather tips for apartments is also to seal windows and doors. As you can imagine, cracks or holes in and around windows and doors can cause cold air to get in, and warm air inside your house to get out. Caulk around windows and fill gaps under doors to help save on heating costs.

The Home Winter Weather Checklist

Before the cold sets in, make sure that all the items on this winter weather checklist have been checked off to ensure a safe and comfortable season free of pricey repairs:

• Prep pipes - drain hoses, insulate exposed plumbing pipes, and drip hot and cold faucets (remember, those asking how many faucets should I let drip, focus on faucets in bathrooms and kitchens)
• Clear gutters - remove buildups of debris such as dirt and leaves sitting in gutters
• Clean your fireplace and chimney - make sure your fireplace is free of dirt and ashes prior to lighting fires
• Inspect your HVAC system - confirm that furnace filters are clean and air ducts are free of dust and debris
• Check your roof - make sure there are no cracks or holes in the roof that could lead to water damage
• Trim tree branches - tree branches near your roof can cause damage during winter storms

Spring Time, A Good Time To Evaluate For Mold Damage In Atlanta

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

Moldy Odors in Atlanta? Call SERVPRO for Remediation

SERVPRO Says: Mold Remediation Done Early Mitigates Damages

As the weather warms, many Atlanta residents treat their home to a thorough spring cleaning. As windows are washed, and closets cleared of last season’s garments it is a great time to keep an eye open in case microbial infestation is an issue. Catching mold colonization early on allows our mold remediation team to eradicate a current problem and help homeowners avoid future involvement.
 
Mold damage in Atlanta need not create a panic. Homeowners reading about the dangers of mold in the media should understand that fungal growth is manageable if properly trained experts follow procedures developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Our mold remediators use this protocol, containing and removing mold employing plastic sheeting or negative pressure air scrubbers to prevent spores and other moldy debris from entering clean areas of your home. Bagged and discarded mold creates no more problems you eliminate the moisture that saturates organic surfaces in your home and fuels mold growth.
 
SERVPRO mold experts know where to look for likely fungal incubators in your home. When cleaning out a cabinet or closet during your spring blitz, check walls and joints where the ceiling connects. Mold grows regardless of light, so a damp front hall closet or under sink cabinet are perfect places for it to multiply. Take a climb up to your attic or uppermost living area and look for staining, damp areas, and that unmistakable musty smell. Failing roofs and flashings can let just enough water inside to provide a feast for mold spores.
 
Move outside and gaze critically at your gutters and downspouts. SERVPRO technicians have plenty of experience tracing water damage from a battered set of gutters inside walls. Mold grows in peace between the interior papered or painted surfaces and the exterior cladding. Clogged drainage systems fail to direct water away from a foundation, and excess precipitation seeps inside a slab or crawlspace. Anywhere moisture collects mold spores use as opportunistic growing mediums. Note the symptoms as you complete your spring cleaning chores and let us help you with the treatment.
 
SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade awaits your call to (770) 739-2355 if you expose mold activity during your annual spring cleaning. Our experienced crews quickly remediate active colonies and help you devise a plan to avoid ongoing mold growth.

Data About the Capital right here.

Cleaning Is Key When Attending To Fire Damage Events In Atlanta

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

Remediation services are mandatory after a fire damage incident if you want to salvage your items and prevent further damage.

Attending To Fire Damage

Remediation services are mandatory after a fire damage incident if you want to salvage your items and prevent further damage. Cleaning is part of the restoration process, and the goal is to break the bond that binds the dirt to the surfaces. Chemical action, mechanical action, lubrication, suspension, and dispersion are the significant cleaning actions which can help you dislodge different smoke particles when you face these challenges in Atlanta.

Our SERVPRO technicians usually use mechanical actions before carrying out other cleaning actions when attending to fire damage incidents in Atlanta. The procedure can dislodge non-greasy particles from surfaces before using solvent-based cleaning agents. If we want to make areas slippery during cleaning, then we can opt for lubrication. This procedure weakens the bond between the surface and the smoke residues.

In a few cases, it might be necessary to chemically alter the dirt adhering to surfaces through chemical actions when cleaning. For instance, we might use such procedures when removing oxidized stains from woolen fabrics. Dispersion and suspension are also useful cleaning procedures when cleaning areas with soil particles.

Another essential procedure that our SERVPRO technicians carry out is deodorization. The goal of this method is to remove odors from the building. The most significant challenge with the smells is that they do not come from the same source. We start by removing the materials causing the odor before we can spray the deodorants. After that, we can use detergents that have antimicrobial abilities to clean surfaces with odor-causing particles. Deodorants also sterilize surfaces and prevent the possibility of mold growth.

If move-outs are necessary to make the restoration process more efficient, our SERVPRO team is ready to do the work. Sometimes, move-outs can help in protecting your contents from potential damage during the remediation process. For instance, some materials may absorb moisture if there is high humidity in the area, so we move them out until dehumidification is complete.

At SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster whether fire, mold, storm or water-related. Call us at (770) 739-2355 industry proven services that you deserve.

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Atlanta Homes with Window AC Units Could Be Welcoming Water Damage

3/23/2018 (Permalink)

Window AC units are not made to last forever, if your unit fails and causes water damage in your home call SERVPRO to help.

SERVPRO Can Help Restore Your Home after Water Damage

When you think about your Atlanta home, there are likely many convenience appliances that come to mind to help you live more comfortably. While these might seem like typical staples of the modern home, without the proper preventative maintenance and occasional forward-thinking repair work, some of these appliances can make your life anything but convenient. Take for example the air conditioning units hanging in the windows in various areas of your home.

With the water that has to pass through the system from both condensation and the natural production of cooled air, a malfunction to your air conditioning unit could result in substantial water damage to your Atlanta home. If one of these units were to malfunction, it stands to reason that removing it from the area might prove to be a difficult task. Fortunately, there is often only a finite amount of water in one of the units at any given time, meaning that at worst, the water eventually does stop pouring out of the appliance.

The best thing that you can do for the sake of your home and the structural integrity of areas like your floor supports might be to contact our experienced SERVPRO professionals. When our team arrives at your home, the quick initial assessment determines the full scope of the possible damage and helps our technicians to determine the best approach to giving you lasting results.

While these circumstances might not always warrant the use of portable pumps and wet-vacs for extraction purposes, they always require drying tools at our disposal. Our drying processes have to be complete and thorough because leaving any trace of lasting moisture could permit the growth of mold in your home. For instances where the water is often explicitly confined to the floors and supports, drying mats get used to penetrate deeply below the thin layer of aesthetic flooring material to entirely dry the region and provide peace of mind from fungal growth.

While you might be among the majority that utilizes convenience appliances like air conditioners heavily throughout the warmest months of the year, you should understand that these machines do not get designed to last forever. If they do break down, spilling high volumes of water inside your home, as a result, contact SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade. Our experienced emergency response team is available 24/7 at (770) 739-2355.

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Your Atlanta Office Building Cannot Afford to Wait on Water Removal

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO as soon as you discover standing water in your office space to get your doors back open quickly for your employees and customers.

Rely on SERVPRO for Quick and Thorough Commercial Water Removal

When your Atlanta office building suffers from a water emergency, there are so many concerns that you circle back through in your mind. Ultimately the best thing that you can do to ensure that your doors can reopen quickly is to entrust the cleanup and restoration to a professional, but how do you know that this is the right decision for your business?

The office building that you oversee in Atlanta might be in need of water removal, but have you stopped to consider what this means for the business? For starters, much like any business in any building, customers and clients are heavily relying on your doors being open and your services being available whenever they need them. Without this, you are running a severe risk of losing profits while you mull over the best approach to deal with your substantial water damage emergency inside.

In this digital age, no matter what profession or service that you offer to the public, your reputation is everything. The trouble with the instantaneous exchange of information that has been made possible through the advancements of the internet is that the longer your doors remain closed, the more that your reputation is going to suffer from those with a harsh opinion and a keyboard. That is what makes expedient restoration a necessity, and that requires professional expertise like our SERVPRO team.

Another critical consideration that comes with your water emergency and its apparent need for professional SERVPRO restoration services is the employees that depend on the company. You likely have an entire staff of individuals that rely on their positions within this company to support themselves and their families. The longer that they are kept away from work due to a water emergency, the more displeased they become and the more each of them struggles financially.

You should not sit on a water emergency in your facility for very long. The longer that standing water and moisture get permitted to sit in one place, the more likely that structural damages and mold damage could result. Contact us at SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade at any time to help you clean up and restore your office building. Just call (770) 739-2355.

Click here for more information on the city of Atlanta.

Proper Mitigation of Flood Damage Helps Eliminate Problems in Atlanta Real Estate

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

Atlanta Flooding Gets Relief from Fast SERVPRO Water Extraction

SERVPRO Provides Fast Emergency Flood Water Removal and Restoration

Any location can experience problems with bad weather, and Atlanta residents know that the area's landscape affects our climate in both
good and bad ways. When severe weather damages a home or other property, acting quick can help to reduce related damages.

For Atlanta homeowners, flood damage can eclipse almost any other disaster endured by a family. Not only can floods happen instantaneously, but responding must also happen just as rapidly. A delayed reaction can allow countless other problematic situations to
develop. These include mold and mildew growth, secondary water damage, wood rot of structural beams, and damage to wiring, personal belongings, and electronic appliances.

Our Green Fleet is Faster To Any Size Disaster, including flooding catastrophes. After receiving a call, our team leaves almost immediately to ensure we lose no time in starting the mitigation work your property requires. We keep our equipment in excellent shape and always ready.

Because floods carry harmful and injurious items with it, we recommend that you always keep contact with the water and any saturated materials to a minimum. Hazards that did not exist inside your home before the flood can also develop. Electrical hazards and broken portions of trim can remain hidden until after an injury occurs. Because of these hazards, our technicians wear personal protection equipment (PPE). Our other equipment centers on mitigating the flood's havoc.

Pumping happens quickly, and we follow this up with additional extraction methods. Making sure that your home becomes dry swiftly means we can also begin checking for damage to areas of your home and removing those areas that require restoration. We do our best to keep this minimized, as reparative work carries a smaller financial burden, gets completed much faster, and eliminates the need to match replacement materials.

Other aspects of flood damage mitigation that affected homeowners can expect include removal and disposal of ruined foodstuffs. Getting
these out of the home quickly reduces the likelihood of rodents and other vermin becoming attracted to your home. Cleaning the rest of
your kitchen protects your family's health upon your return.

The professional technicians at SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade receive IICRC certifications in fields related to the mitigation of flood damage. Our 24-hour service line can be contacted at (770) 739-2355 whenever flooding occurs in the Cascade Heights, Austell,
Furniture City and surrounding areas.

Information on this area by clicking here.

Hidden Mold Damage to Structural Components and Interior Contents of Residences in Atlanta

2/18/2018 (Permalink)

When finding mold behind furniture, it is time to bring in the professional technicians at SERVPRO for remediation services.

SERVPRO Takes a Mold Infestation in Your Home Seriously

As a darkness-loving microorganism, mold easily avoids detection by human eyes. This ability to quickly gain a strong foothold provides microbes more than enough time to cause damage inside an Atlanta home. The areas affected might stay hidden until the homeowners decide to start a home-improvement project or rearrange the furniture.

Once homeowners in Atlanta discover mold damage, they should immediately start remediation to repair the situation. Beginning the repair work and other aspects of remediation as soon as possible helps to prevent several different problems from occurring or escalating. Keeping mold and spores contained through the use of temporary barrier walls, double-bagging, and quick disposal keeps them from spreading. Rendering them incapable of spreading protects people and any uncontaminated areas of your home.

When a project involves areas damaged by microbial activity, many contractors refuse to continue until after an expert remediation team removes the moldy materials. This is because not only can mold cause health effects but can also infest new materials. Completely removing any ruined materials protects people's health and your investment.

During storage in the warehouse, special measures ensure that your new building materials and supplies arrive safely and without any defects. The responsibility of preventing cross-contamination within your home now rests upon your shoulders. SERVPRO technicians are ready to help you protect your home and new materials from the hazards that microbes can introduce.

Rearranging furniture, even within a room, can reveal mold growing on walls behind furniture. Other locations that often suffer in the presence of mold include floors under large pieces of furniture and also around window frames. Many mold spores can easily collect underneath a bed or couch, while window frames collect spores from the air outside as it moves through tiny cracks.

Before placing your furniture pieces in their newly intended spots, calling SERVPRO to clean up the mold can help remove the excess microbial population and give your home a fresh start. Doing so can help keep your home free of excessive mold in the future and protect your home and your furniture.

SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade can be contacted by calling our local number, (770) 739-2355, 24-hours every day of the year. When you discover mold, call us to help prevent mold damage from spreading and growing to other areas of your home.

Click here for more information regarding Atlanta. 

Restoring Your Fire Damaged Atlanta Home

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians have the experience and certified training to properly restore your home after fire damage.

Rely on SERVPRO to Fully Restore Your Home after Fire Damage “Like it Never Even Happened”

While your Atlanta home might still be standing after a fire, there are plenty of things that remain to make it difficult to live in the house. After a traumatic event like a blaze in your house, it can be difficult to know where to begin regarding putting everything back in order and restoring the damage. Fortunately, this is not a situation that you have to deal with on your own, and there are experienced and professional technicians waiting to help you through the entire process.

Fire damage to your Atlanta home is painful to witness, but it is even more difficult to recover from on your own. Appreciating your need for professional restoration services is the first step towards reclaiming your damaged home, and our SERVPRO experienced technicians have the expertise and equipment to restore your home to preloss conditions quickly.

When we arrive, an assessment must be done to determine the areas of damage that require the most immediate attention. In many cases, structural concerns like holes and broken windows must be boarded up or tarped over to prevent further elemental exposure through the restoration process. Keeping communication with you, our SERVPRO team can determine the lingering symptoms of the recent fire that affect you and your family the most.

In many cases of house fires, extinguishing efforts from local fire departments leave significant water damage that compounds on top of the present effects of the fire. To prevent more serious conditions like mold growth or weakening of load bearing components, water extraction and restoration is a priority for our technicians on site.

Smoke and soot damage are common symptoms to significant (and even minuscule) blazes, and cleaning your walls, ceilings, floors, and contents is an involved process that our professionals take very seriously. Depending on the severity of the soot and smoke damage, we use either wet cleaning scrubbers or dry scrubbers. Ideally, this process should either entirely restore the affected surfaces or prepare them for priming and painting.

Fire damage to your home is not something you have to face alone. Our SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade emergency response team can handle any level of disaster. You can give our experienced restoration specialists a call 24/7 at (770) 739-2355.

Click here for more information regarding the city of Atlanta.

Appliance Malfunction Leads to Water Damage in Atlanta

1/30/2018 (Permalink)

An appliance malfunction can cause much damage to your home, SERVPRO knows how to eliminate the moisture and prevent further damages.

Water Damage Cleanup after Unexpected Appliance Failure

The very consumer goods we purchase to make life easier can take a turn for the worse when they fail to perform correctly in Atlanta. A dishwasher hides a loose drainage hose or the refrigerator ice maker has a crack in a pipe. These and other appliance mishaps can ruin floors and cabinets. We can help set it right.

When the particle board base of a cabinet or drywall between the water main and the refrigerator become soaked in your Atlanta kitchen, water damage has modern convenience as its ultimate cause. Invite one of our crew to consult, and we find the leak and arrange for its repair or the pipe or connection’s replacement. Then we turn to the resulting water damage, devising a plan to dry out and restore structural components and fixtures.

Our SERVPRO crews use sophisticated moisture meters and scanning devices to set drying goal baselines and locate any hidden pockets of water that built up over time. We remove kick plates to get to water under cabinets and drill small holes in drywall to release recessed puddles. The trained technicians examine flooring to ensure no moisture made its way underneath. If seepage occurred, we employ drying mats or strategically place air movers to dry out both the top layer of flooring and the subfloor.

If a wall or cabinet is wet, we use an extractor to suction moisture out and then use air movers and dehumidifiers to reduce moisture in the materials to normal levels. SERVPRO crew members monitor moisture throughout the process, taking care to reach but not exceed the drying targets determined by using criteria learned in IICRC training.

The area is then thoroughly cleaned, and touch-ups are done on painted areas. Woodwork, including the removed bases of the cabinets, is replaced and restained to match the rest of the kitchen. Waterlines are tested to ensure the problem will not happen again, and a final inspection for any mold or other secondary damage is completed.

SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade is capable of assisting with any kind of water damage scenario, large or small. Contact us at (770) 739-2355 to set up a visit to commence a high-quality restoration effort by our crews.

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Can Your Atlanta Gas Station's Drains Protect Against Water Damage?

1/18/2018 (Permalink)

Water Removal by SERVPRO Keeps Many Atlanta Businesses Open During Restoration Services

SERVPRO Can Help Keep Your Atlanta Business or Shop Open During Water Removal Services

If draining in your gas station in Atlanta is poor, water damage could lurk just around the corner. Many commercial services buildings and businesses are increasingly including drainage systems in all areas of the structure to eliminate threats of water damage and prevent potentially harmful situations. If your gas station or other unrelated business building lacks adequate drain systems near pumps, in the store section, or in restrooms, you may find yourself at odds with these damage factors.

Foundation Cracks
Water damage can happen to an Atlanta gas station's foundation when water is allowed to pool or puddle above it. While the most severe damage typically only results from situations where there is standing water of a measurable depth, puddles, and persistent moisture can cause many of the same disastrous effects as this much larger and more visible problem. A small storm, plumbing mishap, or mop bucket spill could be all it takes to start to cause damage to your foundation that could cost a fortune down the road. Though fortified, fuel tanks must always be protected from the elements.

Grout and Material Deterioration
While most types of flooring are resistant against the effects of water, long-term exposure to moisture can cause some deterioration of materials. Most notable are different types of tile grout: some can break down, crack, expand, contract, and develop mold growth after long-term contact with water. While SERVPRO can help to reverse these effects, it is best never to let them happen in the first place. To keep your floor and its materials in top shape, try to keep excess water to a minimum. Keep the floors dry.

Injury and Liability Lawsuits
Drainage systems are essential to ensure that your business retains as little water as possible across its floor space for liability reasons. While wet floor signs and warnings can do an excellent job of warning against temporary wetness that evaporates quickly, persistent puddles may be a lawsuit waiting to happen.

SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade has helped dozens of local businesses to deal with the effects of fire, water, and mold damage to their properties over the years. Call us at (770) 739-2355.

Big information about this big city by clicking here.

Determining Flood Damage In Atlanta

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding is a normal occurrence in Georgia, but it does not have to mean you have to write off your home afterward.

Flood Damage In Your Home

Removing storm water from an Atlanta home is much like removing water from a broken water heater. The equipment needed is the same, but there are additional precautions to take depending if this outside water is contaminated. The same concerns are there when it comes to restoring the property.

SERVPRO understands that after flood damage, Atlanta homeowners want to get back into their house, and to their life before they woke up to find ankle-deep water in their living room and kitchen. To make certain we can provide a safe, clean environment; our restoration team first checks to see if the water is Clean, Gray, or Black.

Clean flood water contains no threatening microbes and does not pose a risk to the health of the homeowners or other residents. Team members bring in the same pumps and extraction wands used to clean up after a broken kitchen sink sends water across the linoleum. Clean water can become contaminated if it stands too long, so we begin to remove it as soon as we get the first pump-off our truck. We also start to lower the humidity level since dry air also inhibits microbial growth.

Gray water contains low levels of microbes and other contaminants. The majority of them is usually urine or wash water forced out of overwhelmed sewers after a severe storm. This results in rapid microbial growth and the bacteria or fungi pose a threat to anyone who comes in contact with it. These same microbes can spread to walls and furniture as the water recedes and become a threat to property. To kill the microbes and prevent spreading them, SERVPRO technicians spray an anti-fungal agent across the surface of the water and nearby property before taking any other actions.

Blackwater is a severe threat to people and property. Here, the flood water has drawn in everything from the surrounding area as it rises. That includes animal waste, carcasses, and even sewage when the force of the water splits lines open. Since this contamination is obvious, our technicians pull on protective gear like rubber suits and even breathing gear. Once protected, they spray the water and nearby property before bringing in any pumps or other extraction gear.

For both Black and Gray water, we pump out the water into the nearest, functioning sewer opening. If there is not one available, then we pump it into a tanker truck for removal to the nearest wastewater treatment plant.

Flooding is a normal occurrence in Georgia, but it does not have to mean you have to write off your home afterward. SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade is here to help return your residence and your life to normal as quickly as we can safely do so. If you need us, call today at (770) 739-2355.

Visit https://www.atlantaga.gov/ for more about Atlanta.

Discovering Mold In Your Atlanta Home

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

Spores exist naturally in the air that we breathe, so it is not difficult to understand how so many homeowners in have mold damage in their homes.

Discovering Mold

The humidity in Atlanta throughout every season of the year can be hard to combat. When it comes to keeping this same kind of moisture on the outside of your home, and preventing it from finding a place inside your home to settle, can often be an uphill battle. Prevention is a fight that you need to be involved in, however, as lingering moisture in your home could develop a problem that is incredibly difficult for the average homeowner to eradicate on their own: mold.

Spores exist naturally in the air that we breathe, so it is not difficult to understand how so many homeowners in Atlanta have mold damage in their residences. While this might often occur in darker areas that rarely see much traffic, like your basement, there are also numerous circumstances that can have mold colonies growing right where your family spends a great deal of their time. Excessive use of an air conditioner at frigid temperatures can be a cause of mold colonies forming in the vicinity.

So, how does your air conditioner create the kind of conditions that can allow mold to grow and thrive? Consider what happens when something icy meets up with a warm or hot structure. The result is often the formation of condensation. This created water provides wet surfaces that give the mold spores the kind of food and conditions that they need to grow and spread. The more moisture that you create on the walls and floors, the more likely the scenario exists for the creation of this fungal organism in your house and that you need the professional remediation services of our SERVPRO technicians.

While no one wants to have to call our local SERVPRO team to help get rid of the problem that they have, it is a known fact that mold can cause health effects. So instead of waiting around, you can be better served by approaching the problem head-on and getting our professionals involved that can remove the growing colonies and can help you to limit the present moisture from then on to prevent any recurrence.

Mold damage is something that many homeowners have to contend with, but you do not have to do it alone. Give SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade a call. You can reach us 24/7 at (770) 739-2355.

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What To Expect From Our Atlanta Fire Damage Restoration Firm

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

Flames and Smoke Damage Homes In Atlanta--Call SERVPRO for Restoration and Cleanup

SERVPRO Provides Profession Fire & Smoke Abatement to Atlanta Properties

A house fire is a tragedy no one anticipates, so if you experience a blaze in your Atlanta home, you likely have little idea what the next steps are. Contacting a reputable fire damage restoration company immediately after the firefighters leave is the only course of action. We have the trained technicians, latest equipment, and years of experience in the business.
 
Phase one is a general safety check. Fire damage to your Atlanta home can destabilize floors, ceiling, steps, and walls, among other building structures. Chemicals and water used to knock down the flames leave areas slippery. Combustion of some materials like insulation and lead paints or asbestos on older walls, pipes, and siding may release volatile fumes or particulates that require the use of personal protective gear to work in the area safely. Our crew leaders have extensive experience in evaluating the risks a burned house present to both restorers and residents and develop a restoration plan with safety as a prime consideration.
 
Removing water and drying the structure is phase two. Water disintegrates materials made of cellulose, including wood, drywall, insulation, and many other building staples. Metal oxidizes, and secondary damage such as mold growth follows within 48 hours if water damage is not mitigated. Extraction of standing water and then drying with air movers and dehumidifiers starts before the soot and smoke cleanup begins. SERVPRO crews measure and monitor moisture levels as this step progresses.
 
The third phase is fire debris containment and cleanup. HVAC systems should be disabled to prevent further spread of ash and soot; SERVPRO may clean that system as one of the final steps if it shows contamination. Our crews assess the type of residues present and use the proper strategies, products, and tools to remove them. Light, friable ash and soot vacuum and dust off surfaces, while stickier coatings from electrical or cooking fires may need abrasive cleansers, scrubbers, and even solvents to loosen and remove.
 
Finally, after all surfaces, structures, and belongings are clean, restored, and repaired, SERVPRO’s deodorization experts employ different methods to eliminate the smoky, burned smell. We start by removing odoriferous items and cleaning surfaces. If needed, we seal porous surfaces to prevent residual odor particles from vaporizing. As last resorts, we employ technologies like thermal fogging and hydroxyl generation to create odor neutralization particles that seek out and chemically change the odor-bearing particulates in the air, on surfaces, and within crevices.
 
The team SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade is fully equipped, experienced, and trained to restore your fire-damaged home. Call us at (770) 739-2355 as soon as the authorities permit inspection for restoration.

More information about this city here.

Proven Water Damage Restoration Services for Atlanta Residents

12/12/2017 (Permalink)

When you discover signs of water damage, rely on SERVPRO to resolve the hidden issue and restore the damage.

Call on SERVPRO for Quality Restoration Services after You Discover Water Damage

Water loss events in Atlanta require a specialized approach to ensure that the cleanup and remediation is thorough and meets industry standards. Failing to find and evacuate all the water or permitting building materials to remain damp leads to secondary damage. Our experienced team has the training and the experience to respond appropriately and comprehensively the first time.

Typical causes of water damage in Atlanta are not particularly dramatic and rarely make the news. For example, homeowners do not notice a small leak in the kitchen or bathroom, and the cabinetry or vanity conceal the harm done to walls or floors. Finally, saturated drywall or the ceiling below starts to bulge or stain, making it clear trouble lurks in hidden places. Our water damage remediation crews are familiar with this slowly accumulating damage and have effective strategies to find and resolve the leak before moving on to removing pockets of water and using our inventory of equipment to dry out the affected areas.

Water removal and drying are not always straightforward in these cases. The SERVPRO crew assigned to your home employs advanced technology like moisture sensors and thermal cameras that detect the water built up between walls, under floorboards, or in ceilings. Our IICRC certified technicians use powerful extraction tools to suction water out of recesses, removing small sections of walls, temporarily pulling off kick plates, or carefully breaking a hole in a ceiling for access if necessary. Water accumulating in several levels of flooring responds well to drying mats, and we may lift selected planks or other coverings to ensure the subfloor also has water released and removed.

Once our technicians eliminate the pockets of water, we concentrate on drying soaked building materials and fixtures. SERVPRO hosts a full inventory of industrial-strength air movers, heaters, and desiccant or refrigerant dehumidifiers to swiftly reduce the moisture content in walls, cabinets, floors, and more. Throughout the process we monitor the efficiency of our work with tools like thermohygrometers, keeping us apprised of the relative air humidity, remaining moisture in the structure, and temperature to inform our positioning of equipment and power level selection to dry out your home following industry standards.

SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade looks forward to helping you untangle the mystery of hidden water damage, and then restore your home to preloss condition. Call (770) 739-2355 to schedule an evaluation and begin the process of water loss remediation.

Visit https://www.atlantaga.gov/ for more information on Atlanta.

When Storms or Floods Hit Cobb County, SERVPRO of SW Cobb/Cascade is Ready

9/1/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of SW Cobb/Cascade specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Cobb County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 770 739 2355

Smyrna, GA 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/25/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of SW Cobb/Cascade is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 770-739-2355

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of SW Cobb/Cascade has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of SW Cobb/Cascade

SERVPRO of SW Cobb/Cascade specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.