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Monitoring Your House for Water Damage

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

Picture is a sink caked in dirt and full of brown water. Negligence led to this sink flooding and damaging the floor below.

Question

How can one watch out for water damage? What is the purpose of monitoring a home?

Water Damage Clues

There are many clues that can give away a future water damage situation requiring remediation.

  • Wet floor
  • Paint peeling/pulling
  • Black spots appearing on surfaces
  • Moist, musty smell
  • Wet couches, carpets, or other items
  • Utility bill increases unnecessarily
  • Leaks
  • Strange sounds like drips

Watching out for more than one of these is important as water damage rarely comes to light until it's festered a while.

Monitoring Your Home

Monitoring can prevent a future water damage or detect it before it causes more harm.

Luckily, some vigilance and work is all it takes to keep on track and prevent this issue. Appliances are a large water and fire risk if not maintained properly. A quick check of the floors and walls during routine cleaning increases one's chance of finding water spots. Having a baseline water bill gives an average amount which can be used to detect irregularities in one's water system. Monitoring does not have to be a complicated process; a simple system that allows one to detect odd spots, smells, and sounds is enough.

This will give you the edge on a crisis before it wreaks havoc on your home.

Cleaning Flooded Buildings

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

commercial building flooded commercial building flooded

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This Fact Sheet was developed to help building owners, operators, contractors, and volunteer assistance groups deal with the challenges of working in structures that were not fully cleaned and dried shortly after the flooding. Remember that when first returning to a flood-damaged building, responders should follow the initial precautions and restoration steps detailed in the FEMA Recovery Advisory, The ABC’s of Returning to Flooded Buildings (Appendix E of FEMA 549, 2005). When a flooded home has not been cleaned and dried within a few weeks of the flood event, mold contamination should be expected, and specific steps are needed to clean and restore the home. Basic cleaning and drying information is presented in the FEMA Recovery Advisory Initial Restoration for Flooded Buildings (FEMA 549, 2005), which specifies five steps for post-flood building restoration, including (1) air out, (2) move out, (3) tear out, (4) clean out, and (5) dry out. This Fact Sheet builds on the last two of these steps and assumes that the majority of the muck-out and gutting process has been completed and the home is ready for cleaning and drying. Key Issues • Floodwaters carry a variety of contaminants such as bacteria, oil, heavy metals, and pesticides. While first responders’ initial evaluations of Hurricane Sandy floodwaters indicated that exposure to such items are below current limits for safe occupancy, proper cleaning and preparation for rebuilding is critical to protect workers and occupants from both short-term hazards and long-term risk. • Other hazards are present in addition to the substances brought in with the floodwaters, especially in homes that were not dried out within a week of the flooding. Safety issues related to wet mechanical and electrical systems, exposure to lead and asbestos released from building materials, and mold growth need to be addressed. • Mold is a serious health hazard if the home is reoccupied without proper cleaning. Although a variety of products and techniques can reduce and control mold, the cleaning and drying process described in this Fact Sheet also helps to remove other floodwater contaminants. Personal Safety Flooded buildings can pose a number of health and safety risks, for both individuals who wish to maintain occupancy and those who work to repair them. Eliminating hazards is the best way to protect occupants and workers; however, until conditions can be returned to normal, anyone working in a flooded building should use appropriate personal safety equipment and take appropriate safety precautions.

Storm Damage Restoration

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Van parked in front of commercial building SERVPRO Van parked in front of commercial building

Call SERVPRO of Wynwood today at (305) 377-2325

Blog Summary: Surviving a significant storm is a stressful event, and dealing with the restoration is not always easy. The pros at SERVPRO of Wynwood demystify the process by outlining what to expect so you can get quick and easy storm damage restoration.

The Ultimate Guide to Storm Damage Restoration

According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, 2019 was the most active year for climate disasters, costing Americans $40 billion in property damages.

Storms can cause significant property damage, which, if left unattended, can render a home uninhabitable. Hailstorms and strong winds can make roofs unusable, while heavy rainfall can cause flooding and water damage throughout the property.

SERVPRO of Wynwood knows that storm damage repair is often a lengthy and costly process. However, they want to help homeowners make the process easier and understandable. Here’s their guide on getting your home back to normal after a storm.

Contact the Insurance Company

Most homeowner's insurance policies will cover some aspects of storm damage, so your first step is to get in touch with the insurance agency. You can help the insurance adjuster by taking photos of the damage, but most companies will also send out their own assessor to the property. They will evaluate the extent of the damage to see how much compensation you need.

Many local homeowners are shocked to find that their insurance doesn't cover hail, windstorms, or natural flooding. If you have a standard homeowner's insurance policy, it would be wise to take out additional coverage. The last thing you want is to be stuck without coverage after a bad Texas storm.

Find a Storm Damage Restoration Company

Even small incidents of hail can cause significant damage, so it's smart to call a restoration company to assess your property. Even a single missing roof tile can result in thousands of dollars of water damage if left unattended.

In many cases, your insurer will provide recommendations on a building restoration service, but that doesn't mean that owners can't do their own research. Friends and relatives can give recommendations, and online reviews are everywhere.

If you’re in a rush, SERVPRO of Wynwood can handle every aspect of restoration, from water removal and flood cleanup to a fire damage restoration service and even mold removal.

The Restoration Process

The restoration begins by making sure any existing issues don't worsen. Some repairs may take days to complete, so these will need to be patched up before the complete restoration takes place. 

An unseen issue, such as an electrical problem, can pose a huge threat. For this reason, the sooner the company starts working on the property, the better.

Most storm, water, and fire restoration companies recommend that homeowners don't try to enter the property or use any electrical appliances after a storm. Amateur water cleanup attempts can make the situation even worse, and homeowners lack the gear and training to clean up a damaged home safely.

The restoration process will depend on the type of damage and the extent of the damage. For example, water restoration companies might be able to remove standing water and dry out all surfaces in as little as two days. On the other hand, fire restoration companies might need weeks to remove rubble and ensure all wiring is safe.

Any good restoration company will understand that the possibility of losing a home is stressful. They should approach clients with a kind and professional demeanor, as well as explain each step of the process.

Cleanup and Reconstruction Needed?

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Under Construction street sign Under Construction street sign

SERVPRO Restores and Reconstructs Following Water Damage in Midtown-Miami and Wynwood.

Flooding can ruin a property. Owners look at standing water and sometimes want to give up. Make sure to call a professional restoration service to restore your home after damage caused by burst pipes or other failed plumbing and appliances. SERVPRO not only remediates damage but rebuilds so that your property is like new.  

Regardless of where the damage came from, SERVPRO is the water damage restoration and reconstruction company to use in your area. We are fully licensed in the Miami area to perform the tasks needed to return a home to its pre-disaster condition. After the water has been pumped out, we continue to carry out an inspection from the foundation to the roof. Here are a few of the more common damages and how we rebuild after a disaster. 

First things first, we replace damaged plumbing. Until we stop the source of the water, it is a waste of time to affect any other repairs. Our specialists are fully trained to replace bathroom fixtures, install new dishwashers or lay new intake pipes anywhere in the home. If the problem was a failed septic tank that backed up into the home or across the outside property, we can remove the old tank and set a new one, to include a new concrete cradle, in place. 

Next, come the floors. If our inspection finds damage to the sub-floor, our technicians pull out each piece of the damaged frame and replace it. If necessary, we go down to the foundation and relevel the dirt or concrete to put down a surface without rolls or raised points. Our technicians have years of experience in framing and laying new wood floors that increase the value of the home and are appealing to everyone who sees them. 

When it comes to walls, hanging new sheetrock is only the surface of what we do. Before putting up the new panels, we replace every bit of wall framing that shows water damage. Although we do not move load-bearing walls, we can expand closets or decrease a formal dining area to increase the living room for a young, growing family. 

Finally, there is the roof. Our response team not only replaces damaged or missing tiles but also removes and installs new support beams underneath them. With a nationwide network of equipment at our disposal, we can even lay in a new main support beam if needed. 

Rebuilding your home can be a lengthy process, but hiring the right company for the job can make it much less painful. 

SERVPRO of Wynwood has the experience, training, and equipment need to help you rebuild from the ground up.

Water Damage Tips!

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage drying with air blower Water Damage drying with air blower

Call SERVPRO of Wynwood today at (305) 377-2325!

Summary: SERVPRO of Wynwood stresses the importance of prioritizing safety when dealing with a water damage emergency.

When a home or business owner is confronted with a large-scale water damage incident, it is vital to prioritize the safety of families, employees, customers, and other individuals. SERVPRO of Wynwood is sharing 7 safety tips to help people navigate the aftermath of a water damage emergency. These safety tips are applicable for residential or commercial water damage that is internally sourced from a leaky faucet, a cracked water pipe, or a broken water heater. Water damage resulting from a natural disaster such as a flood, tornado, or hurricane has a set of issues that go beyond the extent of an internally sourced water damage situation.

Tip #1: Stay calm. Do not panic.

Water damage to a home or business is stressful, especially if the water damages expensive furniture, ruins family heirlooms, destroys valuable inventory, or requires the property to be evacuated for a period of days or even weeks. Trained, experienced professionals take care of water damage emergencies every day, and they eliminate a large portion of the stress and anxiety. Skilled restoration experts do a thorough job in a timely fashion, so people do not have to worry.

Tip #2: Identify and eliminate electrical hazards.

A flooded house presents a challenge to the homeowner. Floor covering can be replaced, upholstery can be cleaned, and baseboards can be repainted. Electrocution, however, can be fatal.

The first concern is always personal safety, even before identifying the source of the flooding and shutting off the water. If the flooding is extensive, electrical shock is always a concern. Avoid stepping in the water until sources of potential electrical shock have been identified and resolved. Appliances and extension cords in the water are particularly dangerous. Be safe. Shut off the power from outside the home or commercial building. A water damage issue could turn into a fire hazard if electrical appliances are exposed to water.

Tip #3: Identify any chemical or sanitation hazards before entering the residence or building.

Strong smells, burning and itching eyes, or skin irritation may be indicators that the water may have come into contact with activated chemicals. Carefully do a smell test. Is the liquid on the floor more than water? Is it contaminated with raw sewage? It is unsanitary to track raw sewage throughout the entire house in the search for the water leak. What may have been a relatively simple clean up could be expanded to include the whole house.

Tip #4: Avoid slipping and falling.

Watch out for slippery surfaces. Wet floors can be exceedingly slippery, so hold on to cabinets or furniture when walking on slick kitchen or bathroom floors. Wear shoes or boots that provide stability and reduce the possibility of slipping and falling. It is better to keep shoes on while walking through the flooded areas to prevent slipping and to protect the feet from injury.

Tip #5: Use a flashlight when walking through areas that are dark or dimly lit.

If the flooding was so extensive that the electricity needed to be turned off, use a flashlight to illuminate the home. Proper lighting improves balance and stability. Groping around in the dark can lead to head and hand injuries. Further safety hazards can be created if furniture is turned over or glass is broken.

Tip #6: Wear rubber gloves and other protective clothing, if possible.

Wearing rubber gloves, protective eyewear, sturdy shoes or boots, and a mask or respirator are advisable if at all possible. If the leak has persisted over an extended period of time, mold, mildew, and bacteria may have had time to grow. Mold exposure can cause health effects. Also, the liquid on the floor and carpet may be contaminated with raw sewage. Chemicals may have mixed with the water and may have become activated, toxifying the air and the water. Any exposure to these contaminants could be hazardous or even deadly.

Tip #7: Avoid lifting heavy items.

Water-logged pillows, cushions, clothing, carpet, and padding are very heavy. Be careful walking across slippery surfaces. Carrying a heavy load or slipping unexpectedly can wrench the back or cause other injuries.

If the situation is severe and the environment is hazardous, the safest course of action may be to shut off the electricity and water, call the water damage specialists, and wait. Each crisis is unique and carries its own set of safety hazards. Immediate response from a water damage specialist is essential because much of the damage is done in the first few hours of the incident. Getting a trained technician with the best equipment on the scene as soon as possible is always a best-case scenario in a worst-case situation.

What SERVPRO of Wynwood Does For Mold Remediation in your Wynwood Home/Business

3/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Team Technicians SERVPRO Team Technicians
Call SERVPRO of Wynwood today for mold remediation (305)377-2325! When mold develops in your house, you need two things – remediation and reassurance that the actions taken are sufficient to nullify the issue. SERVPRO takes a systemic approach to ensure a thorough mold removal process and to reassure Jacksonville homeowners. 

How do we ensure mold removal restores our Wynwood property to preloss state?    

The process may involve several steps. Our SERVPRO technicians focus on a couple of areas like:

  • Inspection and assessment of mold damage
  • Mold Containment
  • Removal of mold and mold-Infested materials
  • Air Filtration
  • Cleaning Contents and other materials

In most cases, when you seek help because of mold in your Mid-town Miami home, you have noticed some signs such as patches or spots on surfaces, or there is a whiff of musty odor in your property. However, these signs rarely reveal the whole picture because mold tends to develop in hidden sections of the house. Our technicians can help perform additional tests, including drilling inspection holes on ceilings or walls and lifting covers such as carpets to establish how far the problem spreads around the house.

What sort of containment is done when mold is discovered?

Containment mostly helps prevent mold debris from spreading all over the property. Our SERVPRO technicians set up containment barriers using 6-mil plastic sheets, poles, and grip disks. Limiting further mold growth by applying biocides to vulnerable surfaces can also count as a form of containment.

Running air filtration devices helps remove moldy residues from the air. We also use the devices to create negative air pressure in the contained area, thus ensuring residues do not spread. With proper containment, demolition of affected materials and cleaning can run smoothly without affecting the rest of the house. 

When you need mold problems in your Wynwood home resolved, SERVPRO of Wynwood is ready to help. Call us at (305)377-2325. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Kitchen Appliance Maintenance

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians vacuuming water flood SERVPRO Technicians vacuuming water flood

SERVPRO of Wynwood is faster to any size disaster!

Some of the home floods commonly occur in the kitchen due to its many water outlets.  For most homes, the kitchen commonly incorporates multiple appliances that connect to a water supply line.   It is important to understand that water damages that occur in the kitchen may possibly spread past the kitchen and create larger damages throughout one's home.  Keep your home prepared by periodically checking the appliances to help reduce water damage incidents from occurring.   However, a few common items that may lead to a kitchen flood are as follows:


Dishwasher
Over time, the water supply line in a dishwasher may degrade.  This can lead to water leaking into enclosed areas under the appliance and rupture entirely.  Check this line twice a year by removing the kick plate at the front of the dishwasher and use a flashlight to inspect the space and surrounding areas.  If the area is wet with no explanation, this should be taken as a red flag.  The dishwasher water supply line shut off should be located under the kitchen sink; turn it off and call a plumber. 

Under Sink System
Underneath the sink, you may find a water filtration system.  As time passes, the lines can degrade and rupture.  A crack in the line can lead to flooding and potentially much worse.  Check the sink twice a year to avoid any costly damages.  

Refrigerator
Moving the refrigerator may be tricky sometimes.  It's important to be cautious about its placement.  Moving the refrigerator too close to the wall may kink or break the water supply line.  However, having the refrigerator too far out may cause potential over-stress on the line and potentially cause the line to rupture.    Keep in mind, the plastic water supply line degrades over time and can crack or break.   To prevent water damages from potentially happening, it is advisable to remove the plastic line and replace it with a copper or stainless-steel line that has better durability.  

Being prepared can help prevent a disastrous situation.   By regularly checking on these appliances, you will help avoid any catastrophic damages.  SERVPRO of Wynwood is faster to any sized disaster, and we are here to help 24/7/365 to make it "Like it never even happened."

Why SERVPRO Is The Number 1 Choice For Restoration in Miami, FL

3/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technician wearing PPE SERVPRO Technician wearing PPE

Blog Summary: If your home has been damaged by water, fire, or mold, SERVPRO is the best choice for professional cleaning in Miami, FL to get your property back to normal as quickly as possible. With a professional team, the latest equipment and techniques, and fast 24-hour service, their customers have overwhelmingly positive reviews.

Disasters come in many forms. In Florida, homeowners and businesses regularly experience water damage from floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, and other powerful storms. And fires occur nearly every seven minutes somewhere in the state. 

Why SERVPRO Is the Best Choice for Water Cleanup

Whether the water comes from a flood, a busted pipe, or a leaky roof, water can cause serious damage to a building – and to the health of the people inside. Within days, unwelcome water and moisture can cause rapid mold growth, destroy floors and furnishings, and create an unhealthy environment.

Although there are many water restoration companies, few can match SERVPRO’s experience and expertise in water removal, flood cleanup, and expertly restoring the building to pre-disaster condition. When responding to residential or commercial water damage, the SERVPRO team will:

  • Inspect the property thoroughly to determine the scale of water damage
  • Use industrial vacuums and pumps for water removal
  • Employ powerful fans and dehumidifiers to dry the property
  • Sanitize the building and remove odors with professional cleaning equipment
  • Restore and repair areas impacted by water damage 

SERVPRO understands that flooding and water damage can happen at any time, so their emergency service is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week – even on holidays.

Why SERVPRO Is the No. 1 Company for Expert Mold Removal

Mold growth is a common—and serious—problem following a flood or leak. SERVPRO, one of the leading mold remediation companies in Miami, FL has vast experience eliminating harmful mold before it causes health effects or structural issues. When the SERVPRO team arrives on the scene, they will:

  • Identify and remove the water that’s allowing mold growth
  • Find any area impacted by mold
  • Eliminate mold from all surfaces
  • Utilize a powerful air filtration system to suck up mold spores
  • Clean and sanitize the mold-impacted surfaces, material, carpets, and furniture
  • Repair and restore areas damaged by mold 

Mold is a difficult and persistent problem that needs professional attention to eradicate. SERVPRO’s restoration specialists are highly trained and complete continuing education to stay up to date on the most effective techniques for mold removal and fire and water restoration. 

Why SERVPRO Is the Top Pick for Fire Restoration

SERVPRO differs from other fire restoration companies by embracing a philosophy of restoring, rather than replacing, a building damaged by fire. Their team can arrive immediately after a fire to begin work. SERVPRO’s fire damage restoration service includes:

  • Building inspection to assess the extent of the damage
  • Board-up and tarp service to prevent further damage
  • Water removal from firefighting efforts
  • Elimination of smoke and soot
  • Cleaning and sanitizing with industrial scrubbers
  • Restoring and repairing the building to pre-fire condition

Why SERVPRO Is the Best Cleaning Service in Miami, FL

SERVPRO cleaning specialists are certified to take on any challenge, from sanitizing a home’s carpet and upholstery to air duct cleaning service. The company also has expertise in tackling biohazard spills and COVID-19 sanitization issues. SERVPRO can professionally clean any surface or material—whether in an emergency or a routine deep clean.

Locally owned and operated, SERVPRO is Miami’s leading residential and commercial water, mold, and fire restoration company. For immediate help following a disaster, contact SERVPRO of Wynwood at 305-377-2325.

Questions To A Commercial Cleaning Service Company

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by SERVPRO of Wynwood Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by SERVPRO of Wynwood

Call SERVPRO of Wynwood today for your commercial cleaning needs!

The Best Questions to Ask a Commercial Cleaning Service Company

Although hiring a commercial cleaning service can be a daunting task, if done right, you’ll end up with a cleaning company that will meet and exceed your expectations. Many people wonder how they should screen potential commercial cleaning companies, especially when looking for specialized services such as mold removal, commercial water damage cleanup, water removal, and air duct cleaning.

What to Ask a Commercial Cleaning Service 

Whether you need industrial cleaning, school cleaning, or office cleaning, the following questions will go a long way toward determining whether the cleaning company can provide your business with the services you need.

1. Are you CIMS certified?

Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS) certification ensures that the company under consideration has a proven record of adhering to industry best practices that deliver effective, consistent, and responsive cleaning. A company with this certification is committed to the industry and meets the highest standards—it’s almost a guarantee of excellence.

2. What training do you offer your employees?

The cleaning service's employees must be able to deliver the excellent service your business needs. For this to happen, employees need training explicitly geared toward the kind and level of commercial cleaning services your business requires.

3. How long have you been in business?

Besides having employees with the right level of expertise, the cleaning company must also have adequate experience. One way to predict the kind of service the company will offer is to look at its services in the past. Typically, experienced companies tend to be much better at what they do.

4. What accounts do you service with a business that closely resembles mine?

You ideally want a commercial cleaning company with experience working with other, similar business properties because this will help them get a better idea of the kind of customized commercial cleaning services needed.

5. What quality control checks do you use to ensure reliability?

The best commercial cleaning services use janitorial inspections to ensure quality control and employ reporting software and apps to communicate their results quickly and efficiently. This practice ensures that you regularly receive reports and updates to help resolve any possible issues that may arise.

6. Will the same employee or employees continually service my facility? What is your employee turnover percentage?

The best commercial cleaning companies hire and retain good employees. Having a consistent set of long-term cleaners is ideal since the team becomes aware of your establishment's requirements and understands your facility. 

Turnover percentage can also help you determine the level of continuity. While turnover percentages tend to be higher in low-paying service jobs, certain companies have adapted systems and practices that retain their key staff and lower their turnover percentages. Consider asking your potential cleaning service company what strategies it has adapted to ensure it retains its best employees.

7. How do you screen your employees?

Reliable companies work with reliable employees and have recruitment processes that ensure they only hire the right people. Some companies include personality tests in their recruitment process. Others verify references, police records, and previous employment. A cleaning service with a reliable screening process will protect your business, employees, and facility.

Any More Questions?

The number of questions to ask when looking for a commercial cleaning service is almost limitless. However, the above questions should help you get headed in the right direction and streamline the decision-making process. When it comes to commercial cleaning companies in Miami, SERVPRO is an industry leader.

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO is an all-in-one commercial cleaning and restoration company that has served Bedford since 1967. They are a licensed, insured, and certified option with rigorous hiring standards and a positive feedback profile in Miami.

For more information about commercial cleaning, contact SERVPRO of Wynwood.

5 Facts About Commercial Water Damage

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage Bare Floor Water Damage Bare Floor

Commercial water damage in Wynwood, FL.

Facts About Commercial Water Damage

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

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

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

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

4. Insurance Doesn’t Cover All Damage
Most insurance companies cover unexpected water damage if it comes from within your building in Wynwood, FL. Typically, they don't cover floodwaters that occur due to natural disasters. For this reason, you should read your insurance policy and make sure it offers the coverage you want.

5. Flood Insurance Policies Are Available
There are insurance policies available specifically for flood zones. If your business is in an area with a high risk of flooding, purchase a flood policy. You can have this coverage added to your standard policy, or you can purchase a separate one from a different insurance company.
Water damage can strike at any minute. Therefore, it is important to know a little about this and the water repair process. It is also important to know what your insurance covers and if you need an extra policy. This can help protect your business from water damage.