SMOKE DAMAGED INSULATION? NO PROBLEM!

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke Damaged Insulation

SMOKE DAMAGED INSULATION? WE CAN REMEDY THAT!

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant understands the need to remove all damaged materials from your home or business to make sure there is no lingering effects from a fire damage. One of those materials is your insulation. Insulation is very porous and absorbent which will trap odors like smoke in the material. SERVPRO has various ways of removing insulation based on what type (rolled or blown in) insulation it is. We make sure we remove all materials that could cause odor problems.

Smoke and Soot Facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke:

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Call the cleanup team that is Faster to any size disaster at (314) 260-7177.

SERVPRO, WE DO SO MUCH MORE THAN CLEANING UP A MESS!

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Total Reconstruction

At SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant we do so much more than just emergency cleanup. We are you Full Service restoration/reconstruction contractor. One call to TEAM WOLFE does it all, from initial building stabilization, mitigation to complete reconstruction services. 

Our Construction Division at TEAM WOLFE can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage, mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas including a total construction project. Having one qualified company for the entire process from emergency services, to mitigation and reconstruction, SERVPRO can save time, keep costs low and relieve you and your family of the stress from juggling all that goes into restoring your home or business. TEAM WOLFE can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration and construction services that will bring a building back to full functionality.

Here at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant, we employ all of the trades necessary to complete your project, from lead management, project managers, IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) Certified restoration technicians and carefully selected Trade Partners that work seamlessly within our SERVPRO approved processes. All of our employees and trade partners are skilled and trained to take care of your belongings and restore your property back to its preloss condition "Like it never even happened."

STEPS YOU SHOULD TAKE IN THE EVENT OF A PIPE BURST

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Being rained on by a broken pipe? Call SERVPRO

What should you do in the event of a pipe burst in your home or business?

Cracked, broken or bursting pipes can cause a lot of damage to your home or business. Because of this, its very important to have the problem taken care of as quickly as possible to minimize secondary damage. It can be difficult to determine what to do in a high-stress situation like this, but the following steps will put you on the right path until SERVPRO of St. Louis Central arrives.

1. Contact Your Insurance Agent

One of the first things you want to do when you've experienced water to your home or business is to call your insurance agent. This will allow you to get the claims process started right away. It can be a lengthy process and the money you receive can help you pay to fix broken pipes and have repairs done. Your claim can also be denied if you take too long to report the damage.

2. Locate and Document Damage

When you make an insurance claim, an adjuster will need to inspect your home to determine the extent of the damage. While you are waiting for the visit, you can start making a list and taking pictures of damaged areas and belongings. The adjuster can use this information when working on your claim. Do not throw away affected items until you have documented and inventoried them, as these can provide proof of damage as well.

3. Have Mitigation Done by SERVPRO

A busted water line can result in flooding in your home or business and, if it is not cleaned up quickly, it can lead to a lot of secondary damage. When exposed to moisture, mold can begin to grow in as little as a day and can easily spread to large areas. Excessive water can also absorb into building materials which will then need to be replaced if you delay in mitigating the damage.
If your home or business has been damaged as a result of a busted pipe, a cleanup and restoration service like SERVPRO of St. Louis Central can perform mitigation quickly to minimize further damage. They can also make any necessary repairs and salvage many of your affected belongings to have your home looking as good as new.

Water Damage Have You All Wet? We Got This

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage Have You All Wet? Call SERVPRO

Water Damage Have You All Wet? We Got This

A water line bursting, washer overflows, sewer back ups, sump pump failures, toilet problems, and natural floods can wreak havoc to your home or business in St. Louis. You may feel like you have lost all control of your home or business, and it can only get worse by hiring the wrong contractor who rips and tears your walls, furniture, carpet, and other personal belongings out of its place. This process can leave you clutching your chest in agony as well as a draining your finances and your bank account.

Water removal is not an easy task and should be left to the professionals at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central. Homeowners and business owners often try to clean a major water damage without consulting the experts, which can cause more damage and problems. There are a lot of components that are involved in water damage restoration and reconstruction. It's not something that a beginner should consider tackling. Hiring SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is a step in the right direction and a wise decision because we have all the tools that are needed to take out extra water to prevent further damage. Plus, a thorough cleaning and drying process is required and SERVPRO has the knowledge and the training to mitigate the damage properly.

SERVPRO has high-tech equipment such as  extractors to help remove water from carpets and other flooring materials. Air movers enhance evaporation to reduce drying time. Dehumidifiers extract water vapor from the air. After removing all the water, they use deodorizer equipment such as thermal foggers to produce the fog that has tiny particles of deodorant solutions to neutralize any odor caused by the water damage. We also treat surfaces with anti-microbials to stop mold growth after a water damage. Afterward, these technicians perform a thorough walk-through with you to make sure that everything is done to your satisfaction.

With SERVPRO of St, Louis Central, you can expect reliable and excellent customer services and a team of professionals to get the job done right. Call us for service at (314) 260-7177.

Rolling Out to the next commercial Water Damage

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

ROLLING OUT

WE ARE ROLLING TO THE NEXT LARGE SCALE WATER DAMAGE

Our Commercial Large Loss Division is always prepared to roll in the event of a large loss fire, water or storm damage to commercial or retail spaces and is composed of our best of the best in restoration industry. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle large scale water damages and any other size disasters that transpire.

Every large loss water job is supervised by one of our commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation through the time we engage, start building stabilization all the way through to the completion of the project.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Get the professionals who have decades of large loss commercial restoration, call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central at (314) 260-7177. 

2022 Winter Weather Can Bring Frozen Pipes!

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

Frozen Pipes

Now that January is in full swing for 2022 we can see by the thermometer that the tempuratures are falling dramatically. Water damage calls from frozen pipes really pick up in the St. Louis region when the mercury drops! When pipes freeze over, they expand and burst to a major water damage in your place of business.

Here are some great tips to help prevent frozen pipes:

Let your faucets to drip when the weather has extremely cold tempuratures. Letting a very small amount of water flow through pipes at all times during extreme cold weather spells can do a lot to prevent pipes from freezing. A steady drip is all that is needed to keep the pipes free from ice accumulation.

Many pipes do not have proper insulation or may be adjacent to an exterior wall that can cause them to freeze in cold weather. Pipe sleeves and heating tape can be applied to insulate these pipes. It is also a good precautionary measure to caulk around gaps where cold drafts can affect pipe temperatures.

Shut off any outside water sources that you don't need, especially if you are expecting particularly low temperatures. When a building is left unattended, make sure the thermostat is set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Open cabinet doors under sinks and in storage areas to allow heat from the room to circulate around uninsulated pipes in cold rooms.

Dealing with frozen pipes

Hairdryer – This is one of the safest and most effective ways to thaw a pipe. Open the faucet and then heat the pipe by working back toward the area where the blockage has occurred.

Space heater – A small heater can work much faster than a hairdryer. Simply direct the heater toward the frozen area of the pipe but use caution when utilzing a space heater. Don't leave it unattended.

Make sure you and your employees know where the shut-off valve is located. If you are dealing with frozen pipes or water damage from frozen pipes in your commercial building call TEAM WOLFE at (314) 260-7177 as soon as possible to minimize secondary damage.

Winter Storm Preparedness is Essential

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

2022 Winter Storm Preparedness

We are now into January and hopefully St. Louis businesses and homeowners have put a plan in place in the event of a winter storm. However, the middle of a blizzard or major snowstorm is not the time to wonder when your heating system was last serviced. By taking action now, you can head into the winter season comfortable in the knowledge that your home or business will be safe in the event of severe winter weather.

Before those nightly temperatures plummet, you’ll want to take preventative measures to keep your pipes from freezing, and help your home and business to retain heat by weather-stripping doors and windowsills and replacing your heating system’s filters and have your HVAC system checked before it fails you during a long strectch of winter weather. You might consider buying emergency heating equipment (and fuel) or a portable backup generator in the event of a magor snow/ice storm that could potentially knock out power. Also make sure your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order! And in case you’re unable to leave your home for a prolonged amount of time due to weather conditions, having a stock of non-perishable food items on hand is always a great idea.

Try to avaoid venturing out into hazardous road conditions during a major winter storm, and in the event that you’re caught traveling or need to evacuate an area when a storm strikes, you also want to be sure your vehicle is winter-ready. The American Red Cross recommends having a maintenance check and tire evaluation in autumn so that any necessary maintenance can be completed before winter arrives, and having an emergency road kit with the following provisions: a windshield scraper, a small sack of sand (for generating traction), shovel, matches in a waterproof container, tire chains or traction mats, a bright red cloth to tie to your antenna, warm clothing, blankets, bottled water and snack foods, and a battery-powered radio.

Do you have storm damage due to a winter storm? Call the Winter Storm Damage Cleanup Specialists at 314-260-7177. 

Do You Suspect Water Damage in Your Home?

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

A Protimeter/Moister Detecting Device verifying a wwet surface.

Do You Suspect Water Damage?

A broken water line or other types of water damage can wreak enormous damage if undetected in your home or business. Whether it be from a burst line within a wall or a damaged or worn roof leak that has been alowing water to enter in your home running across rafters and pooling into insulation causing extensive water damage and mold. By the time you discover the problem the damage has been done! 

Water Damage left unresolved can cause secondary damage to building materials and create the need for mold remediation in your attic, basement, interior walls and crawl spaces.

At SERVPRO, we seek out moisture utizing special devices in our arsenal to combat moister:

• Moisture Sensors - alert us that water is present.
• Moisture meters - generate data on the level of how wet the materials are through data.
• Thermo-hygrometers - measures temperature and relative humidity to monitor drying efforts once remediation has been started.
• Thermal imaging/Thermal Cameras - detect cached water for removal behind structures and substraits that the visual eye cannot detect.

CALL SERVPRO:

If you detect that you may have a water damage issue call the cleanup team here at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central at (314) 260-7177. Our trained St. Louis Water Damage technicians will seek out the cause and implement a plan of action to rectify the problem.

Does Your Place of Business Need Its Carpets Cleaned?

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Freshly Cleaned Carpet!

How Does Your St. Louis Commercial Carpets look?

Are you sending a bad message to your St. Louis customers by having unsightly commercial carpets at you place of business?

The average lifespan of commercial carpeting ranges anywhere from three years to ten years based on the quality of material. Replacing carpeting can be a costly indeavor and is a significant investment, so if you’re a business owner with carpeting you want your customers to be impressed when they walk into your business which is hard to do when your carpet has been neglected. As a business owner you're probably interested in seeing that carpet last closer to ten years too so rather than having to replace it it may be advantagous to have SERVPRO routinely clean your carpets to make them last.

Because carpet is a soft surface that can trap dirt, debri, dander and bacteria, carpet maintenance is about more than just appearances, it’s also about the health of your employees and customers.

According to the International Sanitary Supply Association, one square yard of commercial carpet can accumulate up to a pound of dirt in just one week’s time, and up to twice that much during inclement weather. Dirt isn’t the only thing lurking between those carpet fibers. Dead skin cells, dust mites, bacteria, and pollen grains are also frequent offenders, and if your business is pet-friendly, pet hair and urine will also be a common culprit. Any and all of these particles can become airborne when disturbed, and agitate individuals with asthma or allergies. 

Why does you business really need professional cleaning? Isn’t vacuuming sufficient?” While studies do show that frequent vacuuming can significantly lower allergens in carpet generally speaking, a standard vacuum just isn’t able to get deeply embedded dirt and particles. In fact, most carpet warranties require you to have a professional carpet cleaning every twelve to eighteen months. That’s where SERVPRO of St. Louis Central comes in. 

TEAM WOLFE offers a wide range of carpet cleaning methods with the use of specialized cleaners and processes to help your St. Louis commercial carpet last longer and protect the health of your customers and employees. For more info on our carpet cleaning services, give our office a call at 314-260-7177.

Smoke & Soot Damage - What You Need To Know

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke/Soot Damaged Tile

Smoke & Soot After a Fire

After fire damages your home or business, smoke & soot will be present throughout the structure and affects everything from ceiling tiles to HVAC/Ventilation systems, etc., posing a threat to your health and to the contents within the structure. Learn more about the Fire Damage Restoration process.

Smoke & Soot from Fire, What Should You Know About It

Smoke/Soot damage is tiny carbon particles created by incomplete combustion of fossil fuels (wood, oil, coal, etc.). Smoke/Soot contains lots of acids, as well as chemicals, metals, soils, and dust. These particles leave a charred residue and a pungent foul smell on everything it comes in contact with.

During a fire, smoke and/or soot spreads to throughout the entire structure, attacking surfaces and you contents within the structure. This acidic film will cause secondary damage your home your contents and indoor air quality if it is not remediated by a professional immediately.

Soot can inhabit your home even if there wasn’t a fire such as the case with excessive candle burning. Excessive candle usage can lead to soot buildup especially on your ceilings, so make sure to use them carefully as they are a leading cvause of fires. Fireplaces can release soot as well if they’re not properly ventilated. Furnaces are also a source of soot contamination when a defective operating system is in operation.

The dangers of soot exposure:

Data shows that soot exposure leads to around 20,000 deaths in the U.S. each year. Soot-related diseases are the culprit of many of them. Moreover, soot exposure causes 300,000 asthma attacks and two million lost workdays annually due to respiratory problems.

Soot can enter your body through inhalation, ingestion or via the skin and eyes. These toxic particles can cause many breathing problems, including asthma, bronchitis, coronary heart disease, and even cancer. Infants, the elderly, and those who already have breathing problems are the most affected by these contaminates.

To avoid the health risks of soot exposure after a home fire, make sure that all soot-affected areas are properly cleaned and sanitized by a SERVPRO of St. Louis Central professional.

How to clean up soot

Your home or business likely holds many chemicals, such as plastics, foams, carpets, wood products, and synthetic fabrics. Soot derived from these materials leads to health hazards that make fire restoration a dangerous and difficult process to remedy. That's why it's always best to call professioinals like SERVPRO of St. Louis Central! We have the specialized training, PPE and resources to properly remediate Smoke and Soot from your property. Personal protective equipment (PPE) refers to protective clothing, helmets, gloves, face shields, goggles, facemasks and/or respirators or other equipment designed to protect the wearer from injury and/or hazardous materials.

A dust mask and a household cleaner are not enough to clean up soot! Removing soot thoroughly requires professional tools, knowledge, and expertise. SERVPRO can properly clean soot and odors from your entire home or business to ensure its safe.

For professional smoke/soot remediation or fire damage repair, contact SERVPRO at (314) 260-7177.

SERVPRO Giving Back to the Communities We Serve

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

One Stop Community Christmas

Our SERVPRO team was privileged and blessed to participate at an event called "One Stop Community Christmas" on December 11th at one of our franchise locations we service. This charitable event serves families in 7 counties which affects 1000's of our customers! Our Marketing representative Howard Manuel and his wife volunteered their Saturday on behalf of SERVPRO. TEAM WOLFE's donation to One Stop Community Christmas helped reach over 2,500 children and gifted them with new undergarments and socks along with many other businesses who passed out toys, clothes, food baskets to many families in need of support over the Christmas holiday season. What a blessing to participate and to give back to the communities that we serve! One of the main goals of One Stop Community Christmas is to have many local businesses, organizations, and civic groups combine their resources in a collaborative way to help the needs of families in the region so they have a positive experience for them and their children during the Holiday season. Our team is commited to helping support charitable events like the One Stop Community Christmas and others just like it. Giving back feels so good and we feel blessed and privileged to have the resources to give back. We couldn't do it without you (our customers) supporting our business. Thank you and Merry Christmas!

Serving the Region for 25 years.

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

25 Years Strong!

25 Years Strong

Established in 1996, we just celebrated our 25th year in business as a SERVPRO franchise! We are truly thankful and blessed to have had the priviledge of serving the St. Louis region and surrounding communities for those years. It could not have happened without the trust you have put in us to service you in the time of need.

Our team needs more than just work, they need something to work toward, and here at SERVPRO we provide that culture. The satisfaction of helping people is paramount in our culture. Our team understands our mission of SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and its reason for being one of the premier restoration services in St. Louis and the nation. Our leadership team implements a culture that takes great pride in delivering a service that truly encapsulates a "Like it never even happened," experience. all of our divisions from mitigation to large loss to our reconstruction division work in the same direction to achieve the goals of being the best in the industry. 

We Are Not Going Anywhere

At SERVPRO of St. Louis Central & SERVPRO of Brigeton/Florisssant, you can count on us being here serving our great community for years to come. We have been herre for 25 years and we are just getting started. Our owners, David and Angie Wolfe have dedicated their lives to serving and have surrounded themselves with like-minded people. 

So, when you have the need for a one stop restoration/reconstruction provider look no further. SERVPRO of St. Louis Central & SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant has been here for 25 years and we looking forward to serving you for 25 more! Call us at (314) 260-7177.

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is your commercial restoration experts!

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Commmercial warehouse fire damage.

When it comes to St. Louis commercial fires, there can always be a risk of a fire from office buildings to restaurants to factory warehouses. Especially, with the cold weather season gearing up. These types of facilities and structures have not had their heating systems turned on all year long and we all know that the winter months tent to yeld more fire related catastrophes. A fire occurs in a structure at the rate of one every 64 seconds, and a home fire occurs every 89 seconds. This is according to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA).

(NFPA) research has found that structure fires accounted for 20% of the fires, but 49% of related deaths, 80% injuries, and 67% of property damage.

A serious fire in a business is catastrophic and costly to the building, the business itself and the customers it serves. Even when the fire is rapidly controlled, there is still likely going to be significant and secondary fire damage. SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant has trained IICRC Certified technicians and resources to respond to your disaster.

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue, productivity and potential customer loss. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services in addition to reconstruction capabilities, we have the expertise and the knowledge to get your property back in business.

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant specializes in the cleanup, restoration and reconstruction of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.

We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage to its preloss condition. Call us at (314) 260-7177.

Check Your Appliances / Water Damage Culprits

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Appliances

Unchecked Appliances can cause major water damage

Many household appliances utilize water to operate. Dishwashers, refrigerator ice machines and washing machines just to name a few can wreck havoc if not examined and serviced on a regular basis. Let's discuss refrigerators as an example since this appliance runs continually 24/7, 365 days a year. It can start leaking at the most inconvenient time, resulting in water damage throughout your kitchen. It is important to remain mindful of situations that can cause your refrigerator to leak and catch water damage as soon as it forms.

Most Water Damage Begins Unnoticed behind the appliance.

When you are around your refrigerator, you are probably not looking for leaks. Refrigerator leaks tend to start small and gradually grow to become a bigger problem. You might experience a leak coming from the ice maker, a leaky hose, or the water hookup. 

Generally, any leaks coming from an ice maker are the result of built-up condensation and/or a faulty hookup. This can block the draining system and end up leaking through the inside of your fridge and the seals. In addition, a leaky hose can be the result of having the refrigerator pushed up too close against the wall, bending the hose and causing a break and subsequent leak. When connecting water lines to your refrigerator, make sure not to push it as far back as possible to avoid damaging the hose or line. The water hookup can sometimes spring a leak or may drip, which can go unseen for months and eventually cause  major problems including a very nasty mold situation.

Overtime, water leaks can lead to  very costly repairs. Depending on the type of leak, you can experience rotting floorboards, mold build up, or a flooded basement. A strong indicator of water damage is wood flooring that separates and warps, or tiles that become loose. It is important to repair or replace the floor quickly to prevent mold from growing in the area.

Contact SERVPRO

Its important to catch leaks quickly before severe damage occurs. If you suspect a water leak behind your dishwasher, refrigerator or other appliance in your kitchen or basement, call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant at (314) 260-7177.

SERVPRO can help combat COVID at you business

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

With COVID spiking again and all of its variants, the positive numbers are skyrocketing again in the St. Louis region causing concern and worry of shutdowns and business interruptions. Many St. Louis business owners and community leaders throughout our surrounding region are concerned about the impact this trend could have on their businesses.  As leaders in the cleanup and restoration industry, SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant is here to help clean and sanitize your buildings with our proprietary Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned services providing a safer environment for both your employees and customers in the St. Louis region. To help combat these issues, SERVPRO offers a variety of different cleaning options to best suit your needs.  Along with these options, we will also work with you to schedule a cleaning time that fits into your schedule because we care about your business interruptions.

We take great pride in providing the highest possible level of customer service to our clients, and we will strive to help your business keep the doors open and business flowing during these unprecedented times.  To learn more about Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Services, or schedule service, please give us a call at (314) 260-7177 today!

When Fire Damage Strikes, Call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

Experiencing a fire in St. Louis is something that can disrupt your entire life. Not only do you have to deal with damage to your home or business, but there are also the lingering traumatization of the experience. That's why we are hear, to take all the agonizing decisions of putting your home or business back to it's original condition before the event. We build it back while you heal from what you just went through.

We understand just how difficult experiencing a house or business fire can be, which is why we have invested plenty of resources, equipment and training into making sure we are ready to handle any fire damage you experience. We can handle the damage quickly and comprehensively, so you can have a home and business that is restored to its pre-damage condition as quickly as possible.

You Can Trust SERVPRO of St. Louis Central

We Can Handle All Aspects of the Damage

Most folks in the St. Louis region don't understand how damage from fires in one area of a home or business can effect a completely different part of the building far from the point of origin. It's not about being just where the actual flames were, it's where the secondary damage travels to. Smoke and soot can spread through all areas of your home and business, impacting areas that were nowhere near the initial fire and causing smoke related damage to penetrate the structure and the contents. However, with our extensive cleaning techniques and procedures that SERVPRO utilizes, we can purify the air and remove odors from your contents non porous contents, keepsakes, etc.

We Have a Rapid Response 

When a catastrophic fire event strikes, the last thing you want is to wait on a restoration company’s business hours to respond to your needs. That is why we are here 24/7 and always dispatch a team to you as quickly as possible, so we can get the restoration started right away once we arrive.

We are a Full Service Restoration Provider

After a fire, cleaning up the damage is one thing, but restoring your home to its preloss condition is another. We can take care of all aspects of the restoration process including all phases of reconstruction. Whatever is needed we can provide it. One call to us and we handle all the required services to put your home or business back together.

Call us at (314) 260-7177 for all your restoration and reconstruction needs.

Our Rapid Response to Storm Damage is Essential to Restoring Your Property

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

St. Louis Storms

When it comes to St. Louis County July storms, SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant is “Faster to any size disaster,” and due to the speed we get onsite can provide many benefits for homeowners and business owners with water soaked storm damage. When a roof has been breached from wind and rain, a sewer drain has backed up and overflowed into a finished basement, or water intrusion has entered the home or business from malfunctioning gutters, your home and business need to have that excess water removed as quickly as possible.

Homes and businesses in St. Louis, Bridgeton and Florissant that have excessive water damage from disasters brought on by storms need an industry leader in restoration when water removal services are needed immediately as the first step in restoring your property. Pumping out any water that is visible upon our arrival helps us gain a better visual so we can more easily assess the extent of the overall damage and put together a plan of attack to restore the damage.

Larger amounts of porous materials require more aggressive drying methods than materials that are less porous. Our experience benefits homeowners and businesses in all sorts of disasters by giving us insights into how best to proceed in almost any type of situation imaginable, not only in storm events but overflowing toilets and tubs, exploding water heaters, burst pipes, and flooding from natural sources are only a few of those catastrophes.

Removing water starts the mitigation process. Moisture can find its way into every part of your home or business and creates enormous problems later unless it is captured and removed. Dehumidifiers and air movers can work wonders when used together. Moisture meters provide us with initial readings of wet areas in your home or business that are compared to later readings, showing us our progress in the drying process.

When dry, remaining problems can still exist, such as unusual odors. This is because odors are caused by particles, that although tiny, produce smells when they have been disturbed. We can rectify this problem with odor control methods such as ozoning and the use of deodorants. Other problems that can remain behind include over-stretched carpeting, and we can fix that problem, also.

Because floors are always saturated in a situation where standing water exists, we take great care in ensuring that these surfaces are completely dry. This prevents warping of wooden floors and sub-flooring. Otherwise, walking in your home or business may soon become hazardous for your family and guests.

We can begin water removal efforts so that your home or business is once again as it should be, perfectly dry and back to its preloss condition. Storms and/or water damage can occur at all hours of the day and night, and because of this, we are available 24/7 to take your call. 

Fire Damage in St. Louis Missouri

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Electrical Fire

It doesn't take much of a fire in your St. Louis home or business to cause extensive damage chaos in your life. That's why the cleanup professionals at SERVPRO St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant are here to help minimize the chaos and the worry that comes from a fire damage that invades your life. Not only can we make your home or business like new again, we are here to help you through the whole process every step of the way. From emergency mitigation, building stabilization to the reconstruction process, SERVPRO is here to guide you through the whole process.

With over 54 years of industry experience and over 1700 locations nationwide, SERVPRO has the knowledge, equipment and employees to get the job done right. 

We are a full service Fire, Water, Smoke Restoration company, meaning we are able to handle everything from clean-up, deodorizing, reconstruction and even full scale laundry services.  

We work with every insurance carrier and will be onsite immediately to help handle the claim process for you! SERVPRO is here to handle the entire claim and make sure you are completely satisfied. Want to learn more? Call us at (314) 260-7177.

There is many steps to a Commercial Water Damage

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Monitoring

There are many steps to properly dry out a commercial water damage.

Here is just a brief overview of the process:

We begin with a detailed inspection of the property, including a damage assessment. At this stage, our professionals are trying to determine the scope of the damage so that we can develop an appropriate plan of action.

After the inspection and damage assessment step, the water extraction process begins. This step removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and truck-mounted vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from your property.

Once the excess water has been removed, the floors and walls may appear dry, but a quick inspection will reveal they are wet to the touch. Nearly all building materials, like wood, drywall, and flooring materials, are porous and therefore retain water. This retained water can cause the materials to break down, warp, or cause mold damage.

Monitoring:

Monitoring after the initial mitigation and building stabilization of the job site on a daily basis is important. After 24 hours, equipment is manipulated to ensure optimal drying is occurring. This is why we will return to your property regularly to test water damaged materials for moisture and monitor the drying process. We will adjust the water damage restoration equipment and begin removing equipment as soon as areas have reached the proper drying of materials. This will help save you money on unnecessary rentals as well as assure that materials are not over dried causing secondary damage. Every step of the water damage restoration process is monitored and documented thoroughly, and you will have access to these water damage reports at any point during the process.

This is just a brief overview of some of the steps what we do to dry out a building. If you want to learn more about this process click: Water Damage Process

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is the only company you need!

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Project Manager

Every St. Louis homeowner or business' worst fear is a fire destroying their biggest investment. The emotional and financial impact brought on by a catastrophic event can be staggering and beyond stressful. The last things you want to worry about are fighting your insurance company and getting countless bids from dozens of contractors for all of the trades required to restore your home or business. The process can overwhelming to say the least.

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central offers our customers a "One-Stop-Shop" for your fire, water & storm restoration needs saving you precious time, money and your sanity! Your insurance company will look to pay the least amount possible to restore your home. If you’re dealing directly with your adjuster to settle your claim, this leave you having to cut corners on labor and material. Your home or business is the last place you want to cut corners during a reconstruction phase. This is why it is essential to have SERVPRO of St. Louis Central as your advocate! With our claims experience and extensive restoration knowledge we bring to the table, we can help smooth out a potential bumpy road to recovery.  SERVPRO will be there to assist in the claims process and handle the entire restoration project, providing you with the most efficient and stress-free experience possible to get your home or business back to its preloss condition.

Trained Up for the Storm Season

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Trainer

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central are highly trained individuals in storm related property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, to our own in-house training refresher courses so rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property when a storm hits the region and damages homes and businesses. Our training program assures all of our team has the knowledge to restore your property right the first time and to preloss condition! We want our employees to get the "best in industry" training to make sure you choose SERVPRO of St. Louis Central each and every time when a storm disaster strikes the St. Louis region. Here at TEAM WOLFE, we know what we are are doing and we do it right each and every time we are called upon! Call us at (314) 260-7177 for all your restoration needs!

SERVPRO handles all stages of the repair process

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

Working seamlessly to repair the damage

TEAM WOLFE is a "Full Service" Restoration and Reconstruction Company that handles all aspects of putting your home or business back to its preloss condition. Here we have our Restoration Division collaborating seamlessly with our Construction Division on a recent fire damage project. When faced with a serious disaster to your home or business, a full service restoration company is invaluable. Whether you’ve sustained damage as the result of a fire, flood, storm, or any other unexpected event, you need a Full Service Restoration company in your corner and we respond to your needs immediately. Our professionally trained, IICRC certified technicians will be on-site within one hour of your call, equipped and prepared to start the damage control, cleaning, and restoration process without delay. At TEAM WOLFE, one call takes care of it all from start to finish! Its what all customers should expect from a restoration company and we deliver!

Why Choose SERVPRO of St. Louis Central

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a different kind of provider

Were you ever apprehensive when you heard that a contractor or restoration provider was coming to your home or business and thought to yourself, "I wonder if dust & debris will get on everything and they leave it behind for me to clean up?" Worried about unprofessional or unqualified people doing inferior work leaving you dissatisfied? Worried about projects not completed in a timely manner? Well, that's why SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is a different kind of service provider! We understand that you want your property back to its preloss condition quickly and professionally! Here are some of the other reasons why we are different:

Our technicians are professionally trained in what we do and are on time every time!
We seal off areas that are unaffected in your home or business in to keep dust and debris out to prevent any secondary damage to your belongings.
Our team is on call 24/7 to respond to any disasters, even on holidays because we never shut down.
We are certified and carry licenses to ensure your mitigation, remediation, or reconstruction is done correctly, in a timely manner and done right the first time.
Our project managers ensure your peace of mind by keeping you updated as we progress.
We work with your insurance provider/adjuster and offer a transparent estimate.

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is committed to the region we service and to you! We take great pride in putting your St. Louis home or business back to it's original state "Like it never even happened."

Don't Wait for An Adjuster Before Addressing Storm Damage

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Do Not Wait On An Adjuster

Don't Wait For a Property  Adjuster to Arrive After a Storm Damages Your Property

With Spring just a few weeks away, the potential of heavy storms can start to form in the St. Louis region. With that elevated risk of a major storm sweeping through St. Louis, your home or business can experience wind, hail or water damage that will require immediate building stabilization to reduce the affects of secondary damage. By waiting for adjuster to arrive onsite which could takes days if the region received widespread storm damage, you might think it's to just wait for an adjuster to arrive to make any major decisions. However, this might not be the best decision. Here are just a few reasons why.

1. You May Be Waiting Several Days Before an Adjuster can inspect You Property

During a large storm or a disaster, there will likely be many people who have suffered major storm damage to their homes or businesses. Because of this, it might take a while before an adjuster is able to get to you. There will be quite a few people who are in the same situation that you are, so waiting around while your property is wet and/or exposed can create additional secondary damages that will escalate the cost of repairing it back to preloss condition.

2. Water Damage Only Gets Worse by procrastination

While you are waiting for an adjuster to arrive, the water will continue to affect your house and belongings. If the water is not removed and your property stays wet, you will end up with a much larger problem to deal with. When it is exposed to water for long periods of time, wood can begin to warp and may end up rotting which can affect the structure of the building. Mold damage can occur quickly as well and may begin to spread within 24 hours.

3. It Can Affect Your Insurance Claim by Thousands of Additional Dollars by Waiting

In some cases, doing nothing to prevent further damage can affect the results of your storm insurance claim. You might not be approved for as much as you would have otherwise, and your claim might be denied altogether. Paying for repairs on your own can be expensive, so you want to avoid this if possible.
Instead of waiting for your insurance adjuster, the best thing to do after a storm is to document the damage. Take pictures and make lists of affected areas and items to provide as evidence. Once this has been done, a cleanup and restoration service like SERVPRO can begin mitigation to prevent the damage from worsening while you wait to file your claim.

Call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central & SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant for all your Spring Storm cleanup & restoration problems at (314-260-7177. We promise to make them disappear "Like it never even happened."  

Freezing Temperatures Can Cause Pipes to Burst

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Burst Water Line

Baby it's Cold Outside!

With the freezing temperatures we are experiencing, it's vital that you know how to prevent pipes from freezing. When water freezes in your pipes, whether due to quick drops in outside temperatures, poor insulation or the thermostat set too low, its volume expands and puts pressure on the pipe from inside. This can cause a burst pipe, but even a small crack or two can be the start of some devastating and expensive water and plumbing damage that would require a professional restoration company like SERVPRO to repair the damage.

Here are just a few tips that you can perform to reduce the chances of you having to give us a call:
• Insulate pipes located in the attic and crawl space using pipe insulation, even if the climate where you live does not often have hard freeze conditions.
• You can also wrap pipes in heat tape or heat cables with a thermostat control. The best pipe insulation for your situation will depend on your home. Always install according to the manufacturer's directions.
• Seal or caulk any cracks that might let in cold air, especially places where pipes run from inside to outside the home, such as dryer vents or water pipes.
• Preventing frozen pipes should be done outdoors as well. As you winterize your home, disconnect your garden hoses.
For any outdoor faucets with cut-off valves, be sure they are closed and faucets are drained. You can also protect them by using faucet covers throughout the winter months.
• If cold weather settles in and you notice temperatures beginning to drop, start a small drip of both hot water and cold water in the kitchen, bath, laundry areas and any other faucets in the home. A small water drip is all that is needed to keep water moving through the system and prevent frozen pipes.
• Be sure to alert a trusted neighbor if you'll be away more than a few days, and ask them to check periodically to make sure that the measures you have taken in preventing frozen pipes worked and that nothing has ruptured.

In the event you experience water damage due to a burst pipe call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central at (217) 536-6655 and we'll make it "Like it never even happened." 

Minimizing Secondary Roof Damage After A Storm

12/31/2020 (Permalink)

roof damaged from storm

When it comes to severe weather events like Thunderstorms along with high winds in St. Louis, these conditions are often the leading cause of structural damage to residential property and local businesses. While prevention and routine inspections are extremely helpful to avoiding a roof leak, sometimes mother nature is still often too powerful to avoid her visiting your home or business with a major blow to your property. If during or right after a catastrophic storm event causes damages to your roof, getting it taken care of immediately is necessary to avoid extensive water damage remediation and repairs. If the storm was big enough, unfortunately, you may not get instant relief.

Temporary Repairs:
Temporary fixes should be made to ensure the damage doesn’t spread. These include:

Tarps – Simple, inexpensive and easy, waterproof tarps can do wonders to keep more moisture from getting inside the property. From the interior of the building, since it is unsafe to walk on a wet roof, smooth the tarp out and attach it, ensuring the entire area is covered.

Caulk, Temporary Roof Patch – For small leaks, a little caulk or sealant can block the water from coming in. Even though it may be small, it can easily become a much bigger problem if not addressed immediately. These products can be found at your local home improvement store.

Replace Shingles – Depending on the structure, a roof leak often is a result of missing shingles or ones that are cracked or becoming unattached. Once it safe to go on the roof, it is important to repair or replace shingles to limit the damage. Loose shingles shout be smoothed and shifted back into place before being nailed or stapled. If shingles are missing but there are no replacements available, sheet metal or wood can be used as a temporary fix.

Professional Help
While these fixes are designed to limit the spread of damage, they are not permanent repairs. Regardless of the size of the leak, contacting a professional like SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant to inspect and repair the roof is vital to maintaining its longevity and protecting what it covers. Our company is a full service contractor so one call to SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant is all you need to do. We handle all aspects of the restoration and repairs needed to restore your property to its preloss condition. 

A roof leak is a hassle, but it can quickly become much more than that if gone unchecked. Taking immediate action and getting it properly repaired are keys to avoiding damage to the rest of the structure.

Our Construction Division compliments our Restoration Services

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

Full Service Contracting

At SERVPRO of St. Louis Central, the backbone of our company is fire, water & smoke cleanup and restoration. But, what compliments our unique services in the industry is we can facilitate every aspect of the reconstruction process of your damaged property!

Our construction division specializes in reconstruction, new construction residential, retail, offices, financial institutions, healthcare facilities, educational facilities, government properties, warehouses and shipping facilities. We have experts in the field of putting your home or business back to its preloss condition which includes complete builds from a total loss. Our in-house construction division can provide everything that a normal contractor can provide you after you are hit with a catastrophe. That's why SERVPRO is so unique, we can handle the entire process so there is no need for multiple companies and services to juggle! One call to SERVPRO handles everything from start to finish. For work not completed in-house, we have an extensive list of qualified contractors (HVAC, Plumbers, drywall finishing, roofing, electricians and many other specialized services) just to name a few.

We can fast track your project and offer cost-saving solutions to meet your budget goals because you are dealing with just one company!

Call us today at (314) 260-7177 for all your construction needs because we are not just a restoration company, we are a full service contractor!

Great Water Damage Tips

12/18/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Tips

We are well into December and with that comes a elevated risk of water damage due to freezing temperatures that can cause a fatigued water line to burst unexpectedly in your St. Louis home.

Although you just suffered a water damage, there is no need to panic although that will be your first thought. Take a deep breath and give SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant a call and we will get our trained technicians deployed and to the rescue restoring your property to it's preloss condition! Once we arrive on the scene of the damage we can quickly begin the cleanup & remediation of your property. Before we arrive, there are some steps you can take yourself to prevent secondary damage to your property and personal belongings. These steps should only be used if the water damage is caused by a clean water break. If you have suffered damage from sewer, toilet, or other contaminated water sources, stay away from the scene as it may have adverse health effects.

Here are a few tips for what you can do to prevent further water damage to your home, until our trained technicians arrive:

• Shut off the water source if it can be done safely.
• Remove any excess water by mopping or using towels.
• Remove and pop up we upholstery cushions for drying. Do not put cushion covers in washing machine.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• If you have a wet/dry shop vac you can suck up any water that you are able to.
• If water damage is in the ceiling, do not turn on lights or overhead fans. And keep out of rooms where the ceiling is beginning to sag from holding water.
• When in doubt - "Don't" attempt anything! We are in transit and will access what steps need to be taken.

You can trust the team at SERVPRO to handle all your restoration and reconstruction needs by calling (314) 260-7177.

Winter Is Coming, Avoid Frozen Pipes!

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Frozen Water Line

Winter is upon us in St. Louis and with that is temperatures start to plummet. So is the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting during this season. In fact, burst pipes are one of the most common causes of property damage during frigid weather and can cause thousands in water damage—easily $5,000 or more, according to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety.

The pipes most at risk are those in unheated interior spaces such as basements, attics, and garages. Pipes running through cabinets or exterior walls can freeze also. The good news is there are some simple things you can do to keep your water running and your house dry.

Pipe insulation can cost as little as 50 cents per linear foot at your local hardware store according to the IBHS. So for not much more than the cost of the aspirin you’d need, you can avoid the headaches of cleanup, loss of precious keepsakes, and the cost of your insurance deductible. Use the pipe insulation liberally to protect any vulnerable pipes.

Both the IBHS and the American Red Cross, which is in the business of emergency preparedness, have useful advice on how to prevent your pipes from freezing, as well as how to thaw them if they do.

When winter temperatures fall below freezing our phone volume goes up at SERVPRO due to frozen water lines bursting causing quite a lot of water damage. Many times this costly damage could of been prevented with some easy preventive maintenance steps.

1. As previously mentioned, pipe wrap to insulate the expose piping in the basement of your home. 

2. Seal/insulate all small cracks and openings in your basement. Wires and pipes run inside/out of homes and could leave small open spaces which will permit freezing wind to directly affect an area of pipe. That area could freeze and burst. This again is a simply and cost efficient way to keep the heat inside and the cold out.

3. During sub-zero temperatures, let susceptible faucets slowly drip. Running water through the pipes will prevent it from freezing. Also, open cabinet doors under the sinks to allow the home heat to circulate underneath. Again, a few degrees can make a tremendous difference.

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central & SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant is here to help with  all your fire, water & smoke cleanup and restoration needs. We are here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Call us at (314) 260-7177.

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is your Storm Damage Cleanup Specialist

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Thunderstorm Damaged Roof

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is your Thunderstorm Damage Cleanup Specialist!

Severe thunderstorms and straight-line winds and heavy rainfall can cause severe of damage to your St. Louis home, and flooding is a major problem during these storms when rainfall totals several inches in a short period of time. For many families in St. Louis, flooding can become a reality after severe thunderstorm. Flood water carries high levels of raw sewage and other bio-hazards, so you should never try to clean it up on your own.

Severe Thunderstorms with high winds can generate large amounts of building materials debris, roofing and damage to personal property. When flood damage from heavy rainfall has affected your home, you should contact our professionals at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central right away so we can help get your life back in order.

Clean Up and Restoration

Before we can begin cleanup and restoration, we must remove all standing water. We do this with professional-grade, truck-mounted pumps. Once the majority of the water has been removed, we can inspect the home for the extent of the damages from the floodwaters.

Because floodwaters are contaminated, we must remove and dispose of any carpeting and padding in the home. If needed, we pressure wash structural components and disinfect surfaces with an EPA-registered disinfectant.

We continue to remove materials as necessary to decontaminate your home. Communication is paramount with SERVPRO of St. Louis Central by keeping in contact with you every step of the way! It's important to us and to ensure everyone is in agreement with our scope of services. Interior wall surfaces and other inaccessible areas that were contaminated by contaminated water are cleaned, dried and sanitized. Disinfecting steps are repeated for any newly exposed areas.

SERVPRO technicians then remove and dispose of any final debris and wastewater. Once cleaning procedures are complete, we place air movers and dehumidifiers in the home to speed up drying. These machines are monitored daily and moved or adjusted to ensure optimal drying.

Testing and Detection 

We also use moisture meters to detect any hidden moisture that could be lingering inside walls. All of this moisture must be taken care of to prevent the growth of mold. If any mold has started to grow, we also clean the affected area and sanitize it.

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central ensures that we have your home thoroughly & completely dry a before we say the job is done! We pride ourselves in our ability to make homes and businesses back to their preloss condition so give us a call at (314) 260-7177.

The benefits of Air Filtration in your home.

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

HEPA FILTER

Did you know that Air filtration is a great way to keep harmful impurities that affect your health away from your family. Using an air purifier has numerous benefits as well, but you need to know which one is best capable of removing noxious (harmful, poisonous, or unpleasant) mold spores. Find out which types  of air purifiers are most effective at accomplishing a clean and healthy environment.

Air Purification Health Benefits

Besides removing mold spores and floating fungal particles, air purifiers generate atmospheres that are:

• Clean
• Odorless
• Dustless
• Free From Pet Dander
  
  

HVAC attachments reduce the burden placed upon your device, subsequently extending its life.
Although most purifiers can achieve the above objectives with ease, not all are as effective at eliminating mold spores. Making the right choice of air filtration is crucial if you want to keep your St. Louis home free from a situation requiring the services of a mold removal service provider.

Styles of Air Purification
Assuming your primary goal is to remove aerial fungi, one of your best options is a purifier that includes a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter. These filters are able to remove 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger and machines equipped with a HEPA filter can dramatically improve your home’s air quality. Be certain to regularly change you HEPA filter on a regularly scheduled basis, as failure to do so can result in captured spores escaping.
Your other superior choice is a Photo Electrochemical Oxidizer. Using light activation to destroy air particles, an oxidizer is capable of actually eradicating airborne offenders instead of merely trapping them.
Many other systems exist, but none are better than either of the above selections. Photocatalytic oxidizers, for instance, can expunge some organic molecules, but they are highly inefficient. Ozone generators flood your residence with this peculiar-smelling form of oxygen on purpose, a bad idea for those with certain sensitivities. Carbon filter purifiers, which trap gasses, are totally incapable of removing fungus spores.
Keep your residence in St. Louis clear of mold growth through the use of effective air filtration, making sure that whichever model you pick is capable of handling the job.

SERVPRO Professional Carpeting Cleaning

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

Professional Carpet Cleaning

The COVID-19 Pandemic has all of us spending more time at home, and with more people home more often, have you noticed your carpets looking dirty or dingy? As a general rule, folks should have their carpets deep cleaned every 12-18 months.

At SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant, our highly trained technicians use IICRC (Institution of Inspection and Restoration Certification) standards for carpet care as a guide and we will help you make best decisions to care for your carpet. This includes:

• Showing you what cleaning option would be best for your level of soiling.
• Giving you an upfront estimate of the cost involved for the carpet cleaning.
• Explaining the benefits of soil protection and the advantages of a clean carpet for good indoor air quality

What are the different types of carpet cleaning?

1. Bonnet Cleaning Cleaning/maintenance method for light soiling.

• Carpet is lightly sprayed with SERVPRO's proprietary cleaning solution.
• A rotary extractor with a “bonnet” pad is used to pull soil from the carpet.

2. Hot Water Extraction Cleaning for light to moderate soiling.

• Truck mount or portable extraction unit applies cleaning solution with hot water while extracting heavy soils.

3. Deluxe Precondition and Rinse Cleaning for moderate to heavy soiling; pre-treat and rinse.

• Soil emulsifier sprayed on carpet, setting for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Thorough rinse and extraction of soils.

4. Showcase Premier Cleaning Cleaning for moderate to heavy soiling.

• Two-step process:
  • Shampoo applied with rotary equipment.
  • Thorough rinse and extract of soils.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a professional Carpet Cleaning by the cleanup specialists at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant, call us at: (314) 260-7177

Safe Ladder Usage 101

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Safe Ladder Handling

When it comes to climbing ladders please consider the safety risk involved before climbing up. Falls from portable and extension ladders are one of the leading causes of occupational injuries and fatalities. The following is a list of safety tips and guidelines to make sure you, and everyone around you, stay safe.

• Make sure you read and follow the instructions on the ladder, pay close attention to weight limits to whatever ladder you are getting ready to scale.

• Look for overhead power lines before moving the ladder. Don’t use metal ladders near power lines or exposed energized electrical equipment.

• Always do an inspection on your ladder before use. If something is broken or bent, either replace it, or get it repaired. If it’s a commercial ladder, make sure you tag it and pull it off line so another co-worker doesn’t grab it and use it.

• You should always keep a 3-point contact when climbing (two hands and a foot, or two feet and one hand). Keep your body near the middle of the step and always face the ladder while climbing.

• Make sure you use the right ladder and accessories for their designed purpose.

• The ladder must be free of any slippery material on the rungs, steps, or feet.

• Don’t use the top step/rung of a ladder as a step unless it was designated for that purpose.

• Use a ladder only on stable/level ground, unless the ladder is secured to prevent displacement.

• Don’t use boxes, barrels or other unstable bases to gain extra height for the ladder.

• If the ladder needs moved or shifted, make sure that everyone and equipment is off of it.

• The proper angle for setting up a ladder is to place its base a quarter of the working length of the ladder from the wall or other vertical surface.

• If using the ladder in a place where it can get displaced by other work activities, make sure it’s secured.

• Keep all traffic away from the area around the ladder.

• Make sure that the locks on the on the extension ladder are properly engaged.

• Be aware of the weight capacity of the ladder, and don’t exceed the maximum load. You need to take into account your weight and anything you carry on it.

Take a few minutes before getting on your next ladder by doing that inspection, and being mindful of its placement. By following these suggested ideas, serious injury can be prevented.

Have a cleaning project that requires climbing on a ladder? Why not leave the ladder climbing to SERVPRO! Give us a call at (314) 260-7177

Want to learn more about ladder safety? Check out this OSHA link: https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1926/1926.1053

SERVPRO has the equipment & resources to restore your commercial property!

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Services

When it comes to the restoration field, there have been extraordinary advances made in technology & the techniques used in our industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of St. Louis Central & SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant Professionals to restore your St. Louis commercial property or retail business back to its preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

Here are some of the unique tools we have to restore your property:

• An infrared camera may be used to identify hidden water locations for the thorough removal of moisture that is hidden from the naked eye.
• Sensitive moisture meters/detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.
• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water from events like floods. 
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.
• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace.
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.
• Trailer mounted generators and desiccants (Large Commercial Air Dryer) provide power and large scale drying capabilities.
• Air scrubbers filter the air.
• The use of Thermal foggers and deodorization agents make your business smell fantastic!

You can count on SERVPRO of St. Louis Central & SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant to serve you at the highest level so you can put your commercial business back in order and get you back to doing what you do best--serving your customers!

Give us a call at (314) 260-7177.

Complimentary Emergency Ready Profile

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Mobile App

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

Did you know that SERVPRO of St. Louis Central offers complementary SERVPRO Emergency READY Profiles for your business? A Emergency Ready Profile can help you minimize business interruptions by having an immediate plan of action in the event a catastrophe strikes your business. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

• A no cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. 
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed. 
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. 
• Establishes SERVPRO of St. Louis Central as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. 
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. 
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

This Is A FREE Service To Your Company courtesy of TEAM WOLFE!

SERVPRO Commercial Biohazard Trauma Scene Cleanup

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Our technicians are continually trained in proper PPE.

Accidents and trauma scenes rank among the most stressful events a a business can encounter. If the situation involves traumatic injuries, you and your employees endure anxiety, grief, fear, and a host of other emotions. Health risks associated with exposure to pathogens carried by blood and other bodily fluids are of great concern, not to mention the liability of properly cleaning up the scene. OSHA regulations demand adherence to specific research-based protocols to ensure safety during cleanup and to provide a thoroughly disinfected environment for your business operations.

We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster

The need for biohazard/trauma scene in a commercial building can encompass everything from simple human error or equipment malfunction to criminal activity. an event like a trauma scene requires immediate assistance. Our biohazard cleanup crews are available 24/7, with the appropriate training, skills, experience, and resources to respond fast and efficiently.

Biohazard & Trauma Scene Cleanup Best Practices

Specially trained and certified technicians must respond to a trauma or crime site leaving the cleanup to contracted or in-house janitorial & maintenance teams that could jeopardize their health, both physical and emotional. Containment of the affected area and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the cleanup process are required. We observe local rules concerning biohazard disposal for safety and to ensure that your business does not face sanctions. SERVPRO technicians complete comprehensive training and our products, protocols, and equipment exceed expectations.

Transferability of Skills

Often the areas contaminated in a commercial building has porous building materials. To be sure we remove all blood and fluids, intensive flushing and/or removal of building materials is critical. SERVPRO’s proven proficiency in containment processes and removal of contamination permits us to eradicate biohazards safely and completely. Our crews are experts in disinfection and structural drying, as well.

Care and Compassion

SERVPRO employees are acutely aware of the need to balance speedy and biohazard & trauma scenes with sensitivity for the ordeal experienced by those touched by the tragedy. We work hard to respond with respect and compassion in the aftermath of a devastating event. Taking care of the details helps streamline the process.

SERVPRO provides proper cleaning, application of EPA-registered disinfectants, and lawful biohazard disposal, after a severe trauma event at your business. Count on a fast and discreet response when you call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and SERVPRO of Bridgeton/Florissant at (314) 260-7177.

It's Candle Fire Season!

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

A diffuser is a much safer alternative to burning candles.

Be Cautious When Using Candles

Yes, that soft light and aromatic fragrances that fill the room from a lit candle can be an easy way to create the atmosphere that you want in your home. However, candles can also become a safety hazard if they are not used properly. Candle fires are common, but the following tips can help you avoid them.

1. Don’t Leave Burning Candles Unattended:
It may seem like an annoyance to extinguish a candle every time you leave the room. However, leaving it burning could result in a candle fire if something gets too close to the flame or if it burns too low. It is best to blow out candles before going to bed at night, even if the candle is in the same room you sleep in..

2. Keep Them Away From Flammable Items:
When you are using a candle, you should be sure to have the area free of flammable objects. This can include papers as well as fabrics such as curtains and bedding. These types of items should be at least a foot away from any candles that are in use. Flammable liquids should be kept even further away.

3. Keep Them Out of Reach of Pets and Children:
Both children and pets often come with an excess of energy and curiosity. For this reason, it can be easy for them to inadvertently start a candle fire. Keep burning candles in an area that are not within reach of a child or pet, especially unsupervised!

4. Use an Alternative:
Perhaps the easiest way to prevent a is simply not to use candles at all. There are a variety of other ways that you can achieve a more relaxing home environment. If you are only interested in adding a nice scent to your home, a wax warmer is a great option. One great option is a diffuser. Diffusers are a great alternative to candles and make you house smell fantastic!

While these tips can help you prevent an emergency, accidents can still occur. Whether it is small or large, fires often require smoke cleanup and some repairs. If this happens, a fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO can help return your home to its preloss condition making it "Like it never even happened."

Have You Checked Your Gutter System Lately?

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Clogged Gutters

Now that we are well into the fall season, SERVPRO wants to St. Louis homeowners about an important functioning item we tend to overlooked each year, your gutters.
Although you may not think about it, the state of your gutters can affect many other areas of your family's property, which includes your roof and foundation. If your gutters fail to function they way they are intended to do they can wreck havoc on your home or business . The most common problem that homeowners face with their gutters is that they fail to drain or channel excess rainwater far enough away from your foundation. That excess water can back up under your home's foundation or into your basement. If rain water doesn't travel through your gutters freely, it's most likely because the gutters are clogged with leaves or debris. This is especially common during this season when trees are dropping their leaves. If you have clogged gutters it can often lead to costly foundation repairs that can cost thousands of dollars. Having your gutters regularly cleaned (at least once or twice a year) can prevent a major water damage from happening to your property.

if you are concerned about your gutters not functioning property, SERVPRO encourages you to have them inspected by a qualified company to avoid any future water damage from gutters that are clogged.

When water backs up into your basement our foundation, it very well may be a gutter system that is not functioning properly. Be sure and call the cleanup team that is "Faster To Any Size Disaster" in the event water damage strikes your home or business. 

2020 TEAM WOLFE Golf Scramble

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

2020 Annual Business Appreciation Golf Scramble

SERVPRO just finished up with our last TEAM WOLFE Business Appreciation Golf Scramble for 2020 for our customers and clients we serve all year long.

We truly love giving back to our clients and our community! We take nothing for granted and truly value the relationships we have forged through the years.

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central takes great pride in being a part of St. Louis and the surrounding region. We understand that communities like ours hold America together. We want to do our part to ensure St. Louis thrives by helping our neighbors by giving back through donations, sponsoring support with community and regional events near and around St. Louis County. Supporting charities that are dear to our heart and by keeping the St. Louis region safe and making our community we serve the best it can be.

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central's David and Angie Wolfe have 26 years of experience in cleanup and restoration services and when necessary, reconstruct commercial properties with our team of highly trained technicians, carpenters and specialists with our very own in-house Construction Division. You can count on us to get you back up and running so you can get back to what you do best, serving our families, neighbors and the communities we live in.

Recovering From A Water Damage

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded Kitchen

When it comes to water damage in the U.S., almost 40% of homes have incurred losses due to this type of occurrence. Most of these problems are caused by a neglected or damaged roofs, old or faulty plumbing, broken washers and water heaters. Natural disasters such a flood events or hurricanes also ruin homes and businesses with their destructive forces.

During a water damage disaster, many homeowners and businesses feel hopeless, especially if most of the structure is still under water. The situation may appear bleak, but in most cases, there is a great chance of recovering your home or business from water damage quickly. The first step is not to panic. Keep calm and figure out where to begin. This is where an Emergency Plan should be considered before an event like this strikes. Check out https://www.ready.gov/plan. Here are some simple steps to guide you to a successful home recovery after water damage.

Think Safety

The number one priority should be the safety of you and your family. If there is standing water, begin by switching off electrical power to the entire house or the flooded area. Live electricity and water are a lethal combination. Secondly, shut off the main water inlet valve to prevent any possibility of contaminating the water system. In a large flood, you may also need to cut off the gas supply also. Identify and dispose of any damaged food; this will prevent food poisoning by accidental consumption. Don’t wade through a flooded floor without proper protection, especially in murky water. Sharp objects may be lurking at the bottom of the water. Wear sturdy waterproof boots when walking in a flooded area.

Remove The Moisture

The next step is to get rid of the moisture. In a heavy flooding situation, wait till the floods dissipate before you can start drying out your house. if environment is safe to do so, use electric, gas or hand trash pumps to remove water. Locate the lowest part of the flooded floor and place the pumps there. Be careful with electric-powered pumps to avoid electric shock. You could dump the excess water into the sewage system, a tanker truck, or the backyard where it won’t cause any harm. After all the water is out, circulate dry air within the house. Open up windows and doors to let in the fresh air. If it’s safe to use the mains system, install electric fans to blow air to specific areas. Even better, if the heating system is still usable, power it up to warm the house and drive moisture away. Drying out the house can reduce mold from growing. 

Pick Up Debris

Clear out any debris brought in by the water. Flood water is especially messy; there may be sediments, leaves, tree branches and even garbage. Identify anything that can be salvaged. This could be your precious heirlooms, rugs, furniture or drapes. Any salvageable belongings should be kept in a separate dry room if possible, or away from the house altogether. Anything that is severely damaged should be disposed of and documented for insurance purposes. Clear out as much debris as possible to reveal the extent of the water damage.

Assess Water Damage

With everything out of the way and visible, you can now assess the level of damage sustained. You may need to call in an inspector with an eye for details to examine the property in its entirety. Check for damage or mold on the floor, walls and plumbing system. Get a clear picture of the extent of damage, what needs to be done to repair the damages. This may be the time to call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central to put together a restoration protocol to put your St. Louis home back to its preloss condition.

Call Your Insurance Carrier

After a detailed assessment of the damage, call your insurance agent or carrier to find out how much of the damage they will cover. Your insurer will probably send a claims adjuster who will document all the steps you have taken so far and the valuation of damages. According to your insurance policy, the insurer could chip in a large part of the repair and restoration costs. Contact other insurers covering assets like your car or other valuables damaged along with the house.

Repairing Your Property

Now its time to begin repairs on your home. If only some rooms of the house are damaged, your family could still live in the safe parts of the house. However, if the house needs extensive repairs, you may have to find a temporal shelter. SERVPRO of St. Louis Central can carry out all the necessary repairs to your home or business from emergency mitigation and building stabilization to complete reconstruction of your property. Most water damage repairs include floor, walls and doors repairs or replacements. Check with the authorities whether certain repairs are allowed or require a city permit, SERVPRO can provide this for you also. The restoration period depends on the extent of the damage. Floor work usually takes a lot of time, so make sure you are prepared for that. After the repairs, make a few touch ups like paint jobs and restoring any peripheral systems such as plumbing and electrical systems in case they were damaged as well. Again, SERVPRO can provide all these different services to you since we are a "Full Service" contractor.

Ready To Move Back

After all the repairs are done, the house is finally back to its preloss condition, its now time to move back in. Bring in your furniture and belongings and prepare for things to go back to normal "Like it never even happened."

If you have had the misfortune of water damage striking, relax and follow a these steps for a speedy recovery. 

September is National Preparedness Month

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month

Did You Know September is National Preparedness Month?

Have you taken steps in preparing for any type of emergency or natural disaster that could strike your home, your business or St. Louis community?

Have you lead any efforts in the St. Louis region as a whole to become more prepared in the event of a natural disaster? Disasters happen and not only can devastate individuals and their property but entire neighborhoods and communities!

Here Are 4 Steps You Can Take To Prepare (ready.gov):

1. Make a Plan - Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster. Make sure your family is informed and practiced in your emergency plan. 2020 has been you unique year with the COVID-19 pandemic so make sure to update your plan based on the Centers for Disease Control recommendations due to the coronavirus.

2. Build a Kit - Gather emergency supplies that will last for several days after a natural disaster for everyone living in your home.  Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly.

3. Prepare for Natural Disasters and Emergencies- Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your family.  Know the risk of disasters in your area and check your insurance coverage. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards and act fast if you receive a local warning or alert.

4. Educate your kids, their friends and your family - Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved. There are some great resources at ready.gov/september

Whether its a wildfire, flood, tornado or even an earthquake, we need to work together as a team to help ensure our families, friends, businesses, places of worship and our community as a whole are prepared.

Contact SERVPRO of St. Louis Central to find out how we can help make it "Like it never even happened," if a disaster strikes in your life.

Cleaning Contents After a Fire

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damaged Contents and building

•  Make Sure It's Safe To Start

Your first concern in every fire damage restoration disaster is safety.  SERVPRO of St. Louis Central takes steps to make sure all workers entering your home or business after a fire are safe. It is important that the structure is safe before the evaluation and restoration process begins.

Also, keep in mind that, after a fire, indoor air contains floating smoke and soot particles. Smoke/soot particles are Products of Incomplete Combustion (PIC). These are carcinogens and are dangerous. When cleaning up smoke/soot, it is important to wear a respirator, such as an N-95 or N-100. Using gloves and other protective clothing will also protect against soot exposure. Ventilation is key to letting the contaminants in the air outside.

• Evaluating Damaged Contents

The next step is to determine which items should be cleaned and where, as well as which items to discard. Cost and antique value are key consideration factors. SERVPRO inspects the affected items as quickly as possible, as soot can produce further damage or corrode contents and appliances in a matter of hours or days, depending on the material.

In many cases, contents that have been damaged directly by the fire or by excessive heat should not be discarded until inspected. SERVPRO knows how to clean smoke damage from salvageable items.

Most textile goods like draperies and bedding will be taken to our laundry division or dry-cleaning facility. Other contents that can be restored, such as furniture, may be cleaned within the home or sent to our facility.

Food items must be treated with caution. Any open items should be thrown away. Unopened items in original packaging that were away from the heat can be considered safe. If there is any doubt, throw the items away.

Keep in mind that melted or discolored plastic items can’t be restored, only cleaned.

•  Inventory Of Your Contents

If a “pack out” (removing contents out of the structure where damage occurred) is necessary, our SERVPRO technicians will keep careful records for items taken, location of the items, and condition of the items when removed. In other cases, we may determine that conditions allow for cleaning and storing the contents within the home, or perhaps a garage if property has one. An inventory of all discarded items is essential to receiving monetary reimbursement when filing an insurance claim.

•  Contents Cleaning

SERVPRO will perform testing to determine the appropriate product to clean your contents. Today’s restoration professionals will use environmentally friendly products for all cleaning and restoration processes. This is an important consideration when choosing a restoration company.

SERVPRO begins to remove soot from each restorable item — either in the home or at our facility. The cleaning method depends on the item, such as furniture, kitchen utensils, dishes, toys, clothing, bedding, draperies, and more.

• Removing Odors

Pungent odors come with smoke/soot damage. After the cleaning process, most of the smoke odor will be eliminated. Yet, if there is still a small odor, we may add an additional step to the restoration process. This could include ozone or hydroxyl deodorizing. Learn more about processes: Odor Removal

• For Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration, Call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central at (314) 260-7177

When the contents of a home or business are damaged by smoke/soot, mitigating the fire damage, cleaning, and restoring the contents to its preloss condition is a job for restoration professionals. SERVPRO of St. Louis Central technicians know how to clean smoke damage from contents quickly, ethically and professionally. When you call us, we’ll mitigate the loss and restore your property using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.

AT SERVPRO, WE RESPOND IMMEDIATELY

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Administrative Assistant

When You Need a Rapid Response to Your Damage, We Respond Immediately

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central knows that when you call our company, you may be feeling overwhelmed, confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through the crisis you have just endured. SERVPRO of St. Louis Central has specific fire, water and smoke damage training and the expertise to help you through your dilemma. We specialize in fire, water, smoke and storm damage cleanup and restoration. In fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect When You Call

When you call, our friendly representative will ask several questions regarding the type of damage you have incurred. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring with us when we deploy, including how many trained SERVPRO restoration specialists that may be needed for your particular situation.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information including your phone number and email address
• Your insurance carrier (if applicable)
• Has a claim been turned in?
• Name of Adjuster (if assigned)
• The street address of your home or business
• When did the damage occur?
• What caused the damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity and water available (on-site)?
• Is there standing water (if applicable)?
• What year was the home or business built?

About SERVPRO of St. Louis Central

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. SERVPRO can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business.

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. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO of St. Louis Central.

Lightning Strikes Can Impact Your Home or Business

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Lightning striking a rooftop during a thunderstorm

The Dangers of Lightning

During a St. Louis thunderstorm, lightning is a serious concern that can affect your home or business; a thunderstorm can easily create worry about a potential lightning strike that can seriously damage your roof, structure and appliances. Along with strong winds and fallen branches damaging the structure, there is also a risk of a lightning fire. Lightning is not a top reason for a structure fire, a lightning strike can affect your home and business causing hidden fires to start.

Risks Concerning a Lightning Strike

If lightning strikes your home or business, you could be faced with the following scenarios:

Fire: Along with a potential lightning strike hitting the roof or attic area, it could lead to decking, attic insulation or other hidden flammable items being caught on fire.

Power Surges: Bolts prefer to travel the fastest route from the sky to the ground. That often means crossing paths with the wiring and plumbing systems in a home. If a power line in the area was hit, it can also result in a surge that may damage appliances. Electronics, including any smart devices associated with the building, can also be severely damaged.

Shock Wave: The thunder boom in the sky can become very destructive as it gets closer. The explosive shock lightning emits can be powerful enough to break windows, crack foundations, or damage bricks and stones.

After a Strike:
If your home or business is hit by lightning, immediately call 911. A lighting fire isn’t always visible at first glance, so it’s best to have the experts verify your home is safe. Once your St. Louis home or business is deemed safe to enter, you can assess the damage and file an insurance claim. Along with getting the wiring in your home inspected by a certified electrician, it is a good idea to have the structural integrity of the home checked. If there was a fire, contact a SERVPRO specialist at (314) 260-7177 to get your house or business back to “Like it never even happened.”
Although a lightning fire may not be common, lightning strikes are. Staying aware and taking swift action can help limit secondary damage to your home or business.

Our Commercial Large Loss Division

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

53' Commercial Mobile Command Center Trailer.

Our Commercial Large Loss Team

Why Would You Want Commercial Insurance?

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

A person holding an insurance declaration page.

If you own or run a business in St. Louis County, it’s extremely important to have a commercial insurance policy to protect your assets from a potential catastrophic fire or other catastrophe. This type of insurance may prove invaluable in many ways after an emergency. Here are a few reasons you may want to consider having commercial insurance.

1. Commercial Insurance May Cover Restoration Costs

In most cases, a fire or water restoration process at your business can include a number of costs for both the structural repairs, fire damage cleanup, the contents cleaning, document restoration, and any additional services that might be restored. That can be a lot of different services you may not have initially realized will be necessary to restore your business to it's original condition before the damage occurred. Commercial insurance takes these types of repairs into account and may include them under your policy.

2. Commercial Insurance May Recommend a Restoration Service Provider like SERVPRO

Another important aspect of commercial insurance is the fact that in many cases the carrier may have a preferred cleanup and restoration service provider they work with or contract. These providers are usually industry certified restoration professionals who may have a number of tools that allow them to communicate and work with your insurance provider. This means you won’t have to waste time looking for a trusted company, as your insurance agent or adjuster may already have their number on file.

3. Commercial Insurance May Cover Secondary Damages and Business Interruption

If your policy includes secondary damage coverage you may find that the cost of some unexpected repairs may be covered. Secondary damages are damages that occur as a result of the initial problem. For example, the need for a smoke cleanup, or water damage repairs could occur along with or after an initial fire damage.

Maintaining a commercial insurance policy for your St. Louis business can be a good idea for a number of reasons. A commercial policy may be able to cover a number of costs associated with cleanup and repairs, including the services from a restoration provider. Your insurance provider may even recommend a specific team for you to work with like SERVPRO. Additionally, depending on your policy, secondary damages may also be covered which can help with unexpected damages, not to mention monies for lost revenue due to business interruption.

We Are Here For You When Fire Damage Strikes

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

House Fire

The damage caused by a fire doesn’t end when the flames have been extinguished.  When dealing with fire damage, homeowners often see their possessions that they spent their lives working for along with the roof over their heads destroyed, leaving them searching for a safe place to stay while they figure out what's next. Meanwhile, businesses can find themselves in financial struggles and unable to deliver their goods and services leaving them exposed to potential loss of clients, marketing share and potentially not re-opening. Rapid fire damage restoration can hold the key to limiting the emotional and financial struggles caused by a fire. SERVPRO understands this and knows how important it is to get your lives back to normal and businesses back open.

EVERY 65 SECONDS!

According to the latest numbers from the National Fire Protection Association, a structure fire is reported every 65 seconds. When a fire alarm sounds, emergency responders and fire departments answer the call for help with rapid response and deployment to the scene of the fire. When the fire is out and the smoke clears, SERVPRO team members respond, ready to help with the same rapid response and quick deployment to your damage home or business – 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU ALWAYS

At SERVPRO, we never take a day off because we know fires happen anytime, all the time and we are to serve you!

Have You Checked Your Sump Pump Lately?

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Sump Pump

A properly functioning sump pump can be the difference between an expensive water damage and a dry basement. There are two types of sump pumps that you may have in your basement: “submersible” pumps are installed under the floor in your basements, while the “pedestal” pump sits above your sump basin.  Sump pumps are used to “pump” groundwater away from your home and will evacuate large quantities of water, such as flooding and sewer backups to other areas, such as storm drains.  It's important to keep your sump pump in good working order, so it can keep your basement dry all year long. To learn more about sump pump maintenance, check out these common sump pump mistakes people make.

NEGLECT

Simply put, some homeowners never even check on their sump pumps until it's too late. Many homeowners simply ignore routine maintenance and checking their sump pump system on regular intervals. It's possible you may not have a properly functioning sump pump until your basement is several inches under water.

DO IT YOURSELF INSTALL

Have you ever told yourself; "I wish I would have called a professional to do it." If you’ve never installed a sump pump, don’t risk doing it yourself. You'll end up paying a lot more for damages than for the cost of proper installation by a professional installer. Hire a plumbing professional to avoid the risks of faulty installation.

NO BACKUP POWER

During a storm or utility company power outage, your home can lose power, causing your sump pump to shut down.  Should you experience flooding in your basement, a sump pump would redirect any incoming water. Keep your sump pump working during a power outage by connecting it to a backup power source, such as a generator or battery backup system.

IGNORING THE DISCHARGE PIPE/FLOAT SWITCH

Check that the drainage pipes are tightly connected and are directed away from your home’s foundation. Also, inspect the pipe for damage and clogs. Seek help at once if you find clogs or damage. Anything that impedes the flow could result in basement flooding due to slow drainage or no drainage at all.

The float switch tells the sump pump motor to stop once the water level goes below the float. Your sump pump needs ample space around the float to both float and sink freely. This should be inspected on a routine basis.

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE

Routine sump pump maintenance goes a long way in guarding against basement flooding. Schedule a thorough inspection with a septic tank maintenance professional or plumber twice a year. For professional water damage restoration or mold removal, contact SERVPRO of St. Louis Central.

Flash Flood Warning!

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

Stay safe during a flash flood

Rain, rain go away, come again another day! Over the past few weeks, mother nature has decided to let loose of the rain in our area. To make sure you stay safe, here some suggestions to follow so you can stay safe in flash flooding situations.

If you are under a flood warning:

• Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
  • Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.
• Depending on the type of flooding:
  • Evacuate if told to do so.
  • Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
  • Stay where you are

Survive During a Flood:

• Go to the safe location you previously identified.
• If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
• Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.
• Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don’t Drown!
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning.
• If your car is trapped in rapidly moving water stay inside. If water is rising inside the car get on the roof.
• If trapped in a building, go to its highest level. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising floodwater. Only get on the roof if necessary and once there, signal for help.

Surviving After a Flood:

• Listen to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Avoid driving except in emergencies.
• Snakes and other animals may be in your house. Wear heavy gloves and boots during clean up.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock.
• Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
• Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows.

How Long Does a Water Job Take?

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

You can trust SERVPRO of St. Louis Central to take care of your water damage quickly and efficiently!

Many times, whilst getting started with a job, the first question a customer will ask is, “how long will this take?” We here at SERVPRO know that your time is valuable, we want to get the job done as fast as possible and make you say it looks “Like it never even happened.”

The typical timeline for a water job is 3-5 days. The first day of contact with us is all about stabilization. At this point there will not have been enough time to be in touch with insurance agents and adjusters to figure out what we are allowed to proceed with. To stabilize the situation, we set equipment and extract standing water if possible.

On the second day, contact with the adjuster has been made and we are now clear as to what we are allowed to tear out and fix. We begin that work and continue drying the affected area. Days 3-5 are dedicated to drying and monitoring your job.

After the job has been completed, the last step is for us to pick up our equipment and send the bill. That is how simple a job handled by SERVPRO of St. Louis Central can be!

Call today if you experience a water damage: 314-260-7177

How to Minimize a Natural Disaster in the Workplace

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central can help get this mess back to "like it never even happened."

Mother nature is unpredictable. From tornadoes to flooding and hail damage, disasters can seriously impact your business. Not only can they damage the property and equipment, but they can prevent employees from getting to work. Make sure to invest in business insurance and take precautions to lower your risk of natural disaster damage. Check out these tips to reduce your risk of disaster damage and to help your business stay afloat during an emergency situation

• Backup your company files and store them in a safe, off-site location. Losing your files would be detrimental to your business. Many companies offer off site server options to store confidential information securely.
• Anchor down large heavy equipment and cabinets. In the event of a disaster, they could topple over causing injury to those nearby.
• Use fire-resistant building materials. Whether you’re replacing the roof or changing out the property’s landscape, be sure to make them as fire-resistant as possible.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on every floor where it can be easily accessed during an emergency. In the event of a fire, they can stop it from becoming more dangerous.
• Reinforce doors and windows to protect against strong forces. From wind to hail, windows and doors need to withstand the impact.
• Have an emergency kit on hand. Complete with a first aid, non-perishable food, water, and flashlight. An emergency preparedness kit can make a huge difference in keeping the office staff safe.
• Implement an emergency plan and make sure employees know how to respond in the event of an emergency. That way you’ll keep everyone safe.

 As always, if you or any business you know is affected by storm damage, call your local experts at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central for help!

314-260-7177

What is Ozone?

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is your local fire damage expert

If you have ever had a fire on your property and had SERVPRO come out to restore, you will know what an ozone generator is. For those who have not, an ozone generator is a machine that charges the air around it creating O3 out of the O2 molecules we breathe.

What We Use Ozone For

The primary function that we use an ozone generator for is the eliminate odors, especially odors caused by fires. We can use this technique of odor removal in many different cases such as, clothing, furniture, and entire rooms no matter the size. While the odor removal works great, there is a downside to using ozone in excess.

Precautions to Ozone

As stated earlier, ozone is different from the air we breathe. This reaction makes O3 poisonous if it is ingested in excess. This is why we close off the area that is being deodorized during the process. You can trust that we take every precaution necessary to keep our customers and employees safe.

If you experience a fire loss, give SERVPRO of St. Louis Central today!

314-260-7177

How to Prepare for a Storm

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is your local storm cleanup and mitigation company

Storm season is in full swing here in Missouri. As we all know, they can be very destructive to both your property and your own well-being. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself when a storm hits.

Create a Storm Safety Plan

The first step takes place even before the storm happens. Creating a storm safety plan includes information about where you and your family will meet if separated in a storm. It sets up a plan that everyone will follow if there is a necessary evacuation of the property. The reason you create a plan is so that everyone in the home is informed and on the same page.

Create an Emergency Kit

An emergency kit can help you get out on short notice or survive if utilities are taken out by the storm. The bag should be a backpack or a smaller overnight sized bag. Everyone in the home should know where the bag is and what is inside.

Things to include in your kit:

• Battery powered flashlight
• Portable batter powered radio
• Extra batteries
• List of emergency phone numbers
• Prescriptions and essential medicines
• First aid kit
• Nonperishable emergency food
• Bottled water
• Non-electric can opener
• Disposable camera
• Credit cards and cash
• Change of clothing
• Sturdy shoes or boots
• Important papers, identification and bank information

As always, if you experience damage to your property due to a storm, give SERVPRO of St. Louis Central a call at:

314-260-7177

How Containment Prevents Further Contamination

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

Containment helps prevent the spread of mold

If a part of your home or business is contaminated with mold, our professionals may decide to section off your property in an effort to contain the spread of mold throughout the rest of the property. The containment efforts are used for several reasons including:

1. Containment Isolates the Contaminated Area from the Rest of the Property

Once all the contaminated areas are identified, plastic is hung in doorways and on walls. This creates a barrier between the contaminated area and the “clean” area. The plastic does not let air in or out which leads to the next reason.

2. Containment Prevents Spreading Airborne Spores

One of the ways mold can spread is through the air. Think of how flowers grow and fertilize using pollen. Mold is similar in the way that, when disturbed, mold can release small spores that fly through the air and land in a new place to spread.

3. Containment Mitigates Carrier Spreading

Other than airborne spores, mold can also spread by getting stuck in clothes and/or skin which can carry them to a new location. This is why, in severe situations, we will fully suit up when removing mold. 

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is your local expert in mold remediation, fire and water damage services. You can trust us to handle your property professionally and with care, no matter the size. Call today to make your loss “Like it never even happened.”

314-260-7177

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Storm Damage?

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central today for help with your storm damage

It is storm season in Illinois which means your home could be at risk of damage. Do you know what your insurance policy does and does not cover?

Most homeowners insurance policies cover these types of damages:

• Water and ice damage
• Lightning strikes and power surges
• Wind, hail and fallen trees

Water and Ice Damage

Most homeowners' insurance policies help cover water damage if it is “sudden or accidental,” meaning a burst pipe or a failed fitting with a washing machine. The ice aspect comes into play with extreme cold weather damaging your roof causing leaks.

Lightning Strikes and Power Outages

Lighting coverage comes into play if your home is directly struck by lightning. A direct strike can cause fire damage, smoke damage or power surges. Power surges caused directly by a lightning strike, in most cases, will cover damaged electronics and appliances.

Wind Hail and Fallen Trees

Storms tend to have very high wind and hail which can be damaging to the exterior materials of your home. Under a normal homeowners policy, these types of exterior damages along with interior water damages are typically covered. Most policies also cover damage caused by a tree that is knocked over by the high wind.

If you are unsure of what is covered by your insurance, now would be a great time to call your agent and check your policy. It is better to know what is covered before something happens so that you can be prepared.

And as always, if you experience a loss related to storm damage:

CALL SERVPRO OF ST. LOUIS CENTRAL TODAY: 314-260-7177

Wait! Don't Touch That Fan!

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

Before touching set equipment, give us a call. We set our equipment with a purpose

Let’s set the scene:

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central has come to your home after a water damage occurred. Contents have been removed and it is time to start the drying process with to get it back to “Like it never even happened.” 

The first thing that will happen is if there is an excess amount of water in the carpet, the technicians will extract that water. After extraction, the flooring will still be damp. This is where we will place our air movers or “fans.”

Did you know that we place the air movers in a specific way that speeds the drying process? The placement of our fans creates the ideal airflow that circulates in dry air from the humidifiers, which evaporates the moisture in the flooring. To the untrained eye, it may not seem that way, but we have a purpose for doing the things the way we do. If you have any questions regarding the process, it is best to direct those questions to the trusted SERVPRO of St. Louis Central’s team.

If a piece of our equipment stops working while we are not on site, we will need to know as soon as possible so that we can replace the faulty equipment. In this case, also give the lead on your loss from SERVPRO of St. Louis Central a call.

Nurse Appreciation Week 2020

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

Our marketing team delivered lunch to local St. Louis ER's during Nurse Appreciation Week, 2020

The world is a crazy place at the moment and supporting those that keep the country going is of upmost importance. It was only fitting that this year; nurse appreciation week fell right in the middle of a global pandemic.

To show our appreciation and support for our fellow essential workers we decided to bring them lunch from a local Chick-fil-a of Hampton & Chippewa. We split up our marketing team to divide and conquer our franchise territory. Doing this allowed for us to make it to eight different ER’s all across St. Louis.

Those ER’s were:

• SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital
• SSM DePaul
• BJC
• BJC Children’s
• Christian Hospital
• Cardinal Glennon Children’s
• St. Louis VA Health Care System
• Alexius Hospital

In this time, real business strategy goes out the window. People do not want to hear a sales pitch or hear about the services provided. What people care about right now is the hospitality and compassion. This is why we show our support for those who need it most. Thank you to all healthcare providers and know that you are in our thoughts!

We Can Handle Any Size Commercial Loss

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is your local expert in large loss restoration!

Those who have heard of SERVPRO, know that we can help with any size residential disaster. We pride ourselves on our ability as a company to provide the best services possible. 

Fun fact: SERVPRO of St. Louis Central can also handle large commercial buildings such as warehouses, retail stores, and schools. Let’s begin by discussing what is considered commercial loss.  The main component is size. The average residential home is 2,392 square feet and commercial losses are typically much larger. For instance, a warehouse can be in the hundreds of thousands of square feet. To help better understand the differences in commercial losses, SERVPRO breaks them down into three levels; 

LEVEL 1

Level 1 is a relatively small loss involving 15,000 square feet or less. Most level one cases are small retail locations, small churches, daycare facilities, or stand-alone offices.

LEVEL 2

Level 2 is a mid-sized loss ranging from 15,000 to 60,000 square feet. The types of buildings that fall under level 2 are mid-sized churches and schools, small shopping centers, mid-size manufacturing facilities, and multi-family properties.

LEVEL 3

Level 3 is a large loss involving 60,000 square feet and up. Examples of a level 3 loss are large churches, hospitals, schools and universities, large warehouses, and large manufacturing facilities. 

It takes a special kind of restoration company to handle a loss of level 2 or higher. Luckily for you, SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is a Disaster Recovery Team. This means we have the training, personnel, and equipment to handle any level of loss.

At the snap of a finger, we can dispatch our semi-trailers and personnel to the job site to start the mitigation process. We have multiple equipment trailers that always stay stocked and ready to deploy, as well as a mobile office command center that we park at the job site. Over the years,

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central has worked on and completed numerous large commercial losses. You can trust that we are the local experts to help with your commercial loss. 

CALL TODAY: 314-260-7177

Electrical Fires

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is Here To Help if you have an electrical fire in your home or business

All over the U.S., electrical fires are one of the most common causes of house fires. Electrical fires are not exclusive to old buildings, and they are also not exclusive to home appliances. In fact, 50% of electrical fires start with electrical distribution and lighting equipment. This is due to a compromised wire insulation, an overloaded conduit, or the equipment becoming hot and being close to combustible material.

How To Protect Yourself From Electrical Fires

• Have your home or business thoroughly inspected by a qualified electrician to ensure that electrical work is up to code.
• Install smoke detectors on every level of your home or business
• Test smoke detectors every month
• Establish an emergency escape plan
• Do not overload electrical outlets
• Use light bulbs that meet the recommended power of light fixture
• Inspect your appliances, extension cords, and plug-ins often to make sure they have not become compromised
• Look and listen for telltale signs of problems; sizzling or buzzing, flickering lights, and frequently tripped breakers

Following these tips can help prevent and make sure you are as ready as possible for a fire disaster, but no one is really ready for a home disaster. In those times of need, SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is Here To Help. We offer board-ups, free estimates, and reconstruction services. That means that when you call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central, we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call Today: 314-260-7177

Managing a Storm Damage

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central can handle any size disaster caused by a storm!

Many things come along with a violent storm. We live in an area of the world where extreme weather happens every year. We have tornadoes, heavy rain, lightning, hail, etc. All of the acts of nature are powerful and can cause a lot of damage to our homes and businesses. Luckily, you have SERVPRO of St. Louis Central to help you make your storm damage “Like it never even happened.”

Let’s say that the windows at your property have been broken due to high winds or hail, we can handle that. What if your roof is partially or fully blown off by a storm? We are also capable of replacing your entire roof. SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is dedicated to making sure that the transition from preloss to post-mitigation is as seamless and easy as possible for the property owner.

Most storm damages are more than one kind of damage all in one. Thinking back to the roof example in the last paragraph, there is at minimum reconstruction to be done, but there will also be water damage from the rain involved in the storm. You can rely on SERVPRO of St. Louis Central’s highly trained professionals to make sure that all aspects of the damage are recognized and documented properly.

What We Offer:

• Reconstruction Services
• Water Mitigation
• Fire Restoration
• Cleanup Services
• Document Drying
• Move Outs and Contents Restoration
• Mold Removal and Mitigation

As soon as the damage occurs, it is important to get the opinion of a professional before moving forward. That way, secondary damage does not occur, and the proper procedures can be followed. For that professional opinion, you can trust SERVPRO of St. Louis Central!

Call Today: 314-260-7177

We Are Duct Cleaning Experts

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central has the expertise and equipment to handle any size duct cleaning from commercial to residential

How often do you look at your HVAC system? Like most people, the answer is probably not very often. We are not saying that forgetting about your HVAC system is a bad thing, we all do it, but if you cannot remember the last time you looked it over, then it is the time to do so.

There is not a typical timeline in which your system should be regularly cleaned, but there are a few signs to look for:

• Visible mold growth
• Ducts are infested or have been infested with vermin
• Ducts are clogged with excess amounts of dust or debris
• Particles coming out of registers when system comes on

If any of these signs appear in your ducts, there may be an underlying problem that also needs to be addressed with your HVAC. For those solutions, it is best to contact your preferred heating and cooling company to find the reason for these problems.

For cleaning, you can trust the professionals at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central to effectively clean your duct work. We have the proper equipment and expertise to handle any size job, from a large office building to a residential home.

At SERVPRO we don’t just take a vacuum into your ducts and sweep it out. We have a special agitator that kicks up all the dust and debris in your ducts that is then sucked out with our industrial duct air cleaner. There is a reason why SERVPRO is an industry leader, and you can trust us to take care of your home or business!

Call today for a free duct cleaning estimate!

314-260-7177

4 Reasons Why Sump Pumps Fail

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central can handle any size water damage! We are your local water damage experts!

Let’s take a moment to talk about one the most important pieces of equipment in your home that is, more times than not, forgotten. The sump pump in your basement is a crucial piece of equipment that keeps your basement from flooding when heavy rains are coming down outside. The sump pump diverts water from your basement and foundation to a safer place where it can drain properly. Sump pumps have many moving parts and variables that make sure they run properly. If one of those variables goes bad, then the pump will fail.

4 Reasons Why a Sump Pump Can Fail:

1. Power Outage

A power outage is the most common reason for a sump pump failure. That is because sump pumps are not typically connected to their own power supply. They are most commonly connected to the home’s electrical system the same way lighting and the HVAC system is. Having a backup generator for your home in this case can be a lifesaver and prevent future headaches.

2. Sump Pump is the Wrong Size

Seeing this may make you think, “Let’s get the biggest pump so that it can handle any amount of water.” This thought can get you in trouble though, because sump pumps that are too big overwork and actually will wear out faster. While a pump that is too small will not be able to keep up with the waterflow that it encounters. The best course of action is to consult with a professional to make sure you have the proper sized sump pump.

3. Improper Installation

Installing a sump pump must be done exactly right. Manufacturer’s instructions must be followed carefully for the installation in order to avoid severe water damage down the road. Most manufacturers recommend or require a check valve to be installed on the discharge line. If not installed, the back-flow of water can cause the pump impeller to rotate backwards and unscrew off the motor shaft. In this scenario, you will still hear the pump motor running, but it would not be pumping any water.

Most manufacturers require the drilling of a small air relief hole in the discharge line between the pump and the check valve which is intended to prevent the pump from having to overcome the air pressure in the discharge pipe. The discharge pipe must be of the required diameter. 

Lastly, the sump pump pit should not be set in dirt or gravel. This causes debris to enter into your pump and can result in interference with the pump’s on/off switch or float arm.

4. Lack of Maintenance

Depending on the pump manufacturer, it is recommended that from every 2-3 months to once a year. To be safe, it is best if the pump is checked before rainy season starts. That way, you are not caught with a faulty pump when it is pouring down rain outside.

Like all equipment, a sump pump can also just unexplainably fail. This is the reason why preventative maintenance and routine checks are key so that you never get caught in a bad situation. Remember that even though a sump pump may seem expensive, but it doesn’t come close to comparing to how much a water damage can cost you both financially and emotionally after losing sentimental items.

Call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central today for any water damage needs!

314-260-7177

What to do Until Help Arrives: Sewer

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central has a team of highly trained professionals that can clean up your sewer backup

A sewer backup is a nasty situation for everyone involved. It not only puts a damper on your day, it can pose serious health risks, and property damage.

ILLNESS

The most dangerous part of a sewer backup, which is often overlooked, is the dangers it has on your personal health. The sewer water is filled with bacteria, viruses, and other illness causing contaminants. Any contact with the water can put you, your family, and pets at risk of illness or death.

STRUCTURAL DAMAGE

The second most pressing issue with a sewer backup is the moisture left over from the water, causing secondary damage after cleanup. If the walls and floors of the affected area are not dried properly, or replaced, then mold and structural damage can occur causing more issues down the line.

CALL SERVPRO

These are the reasons why it is so important to have a professional team of experts like SERVPRO of St. Louis Central clean and restore your home or business after a sewer backup. In the unfortunate situation that you have a sewer backup, follow these tips to keep you and your family safe.

DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and contaminated items
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items
• Stay out of affected areas
• Treat all bodily fluids as contaminated
• Call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central to properly clean and restore your property

DON’T:

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas
• Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air
• Use household fans to dry the structure because it will spread contaminates
• Use products of personal hygiene if they have been exposed to contaminated areas, even if not directly touched by water
• Attempt cleanup without consulting a professional
• Handle or touch any items that might be contaminated

CALL NOW: 314-260-7177

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central can help you get back to normal after a kitchen fire.

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

A local kitchen fire scorched a customers ceiling above the stove. They called SERVPRO of St. Louis Central to come and restore their home.

Cooking is something that most every person does on a daily basis. It is an activity that is so normal, that it can be easily forgotten how dangerous it can be. The temperatures required to cook are easily hot enough to start a fire if left unattended.

According to the NFPA, in 2018 the “United States fire departments responded to an estimated average of 172,100 home structure fires per year started by cooking activities in 2012-2016, or an average of 471 home cooking fires per day. These fires caused an average of 530 civilian deaths, 5,270 reported civilian fire injuries, and $1.1 billion in direct property damage per year.”

As you can see, fire damages not only happen often, they are expensive as well. This is because when a fire occurs it damages much more than just the structure of your home or business. The heat from the fire can change the chemical makeup of food items, textiles, furniture, and much more.

Another variable to consider is the amount of soot that the fire spreads across your home. Even a small fire in a small corner of your home or business can spread soot over the entire property. The soot gets into the duct systems and is then cycled through the property by the HVAC system. This is why you should trust our highly trained professionals come in and clean the property properly. At SERVPRO, we have a restore first mindset and will do our best to restore any items affected by fire.

What should be disposed of after a kitchen fire:

• Nonperishable food items - even though these food items are sealed, the heat from the fire can activate bacteria in the cans or jars causing the food to go bad.
• Room temperature perishable food items - a sealed refrigerator can keep food safe to eat for up to two hours without power as long as it is left shut. However, if when the refrigerator is opened, even within that two-hour zone, and a strange odor is present, it would be a good idea to dispose of the items inside.
• Burnt clothing - all clothing burned by the fire should be disposed of even if it is just barely burned.
• Cosmetics and medications - carefully sort through and examine cosmetics and medicine. If there are any signs that the container has been compromised, dispose the item.

A reliable rule of thumb after a kitchen fire is to get rid of items stored in cardboard, thin plastic bags, or cloth.

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is a team you can count on to be Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (314) 260-7177 today for a fast disaster cleanup service from an experienced team.

Four Phases of Disaster Restoration

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

A business owner tries to minimize damage from a leak caused by a storm. The bucket he is using is way too small for the job.

Oh no, you’ve had a disaster happen at your place of business! You’re probably asking yourself, “who do I need to call, and what do I do now?” You should call SERVPRO of ST. Louis Central!

Our highly trained team of professionals has the expertise to stabilize the situation and get your business back up and running as soon as possible. During any restoration project that SERVPRO is called in on, there is a detailed, four-phase process that we follow. This ensures the project is completed in a timely manner and all parties involved are up to date as to how the project is coming along.

The four phases of the process are:

1. Project initiation
2. Project plan
3. Project execution
4. Project close out

During the first phase of the process, our team arrives on site and walks the property with the owner to properly assess the damage. We consult with the property owner on the best course of action going forward and will also lend a hand with initial services such as board-ups (in the case of fire damage) or setting up a mobile office to make sure your business can maintain operational status during this tough time.

In the second phase, we build an estimate, create a game plan, and acquire the proper permits. Then, after approval, we begin the restoration process which bleeds into the third phase.

The third phase is all about working on the job and properly communicating with the customer throughout the entire restoration process.

Lastly, during phase four, the job has been finished, inspected and we send out billing.

There are many more details that are just too much to go into with one blog post.

Follow SERVPRO of St. Louis Central on social media for updates on when we post new blog topics. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn!

Does Your St. Louis Home Have A Mold Problem?

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growing around window sill and wall

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors. 
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 314-260-7177.  

Winter Storm Hazards

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

Give us a call, we will assess the situation like it never happened.

Winter Storms can bring many hazards

Many destructive impacts can come out of a single winter storm. Are you prepared for the coming winter? The array of hazards that can come from a winter storm are sometimes countless.

• Ice: Accumulations of a half inch or more, because of it's weight can cause widespread destruction and power outages and can have a crippling impact. 
• Wet Snow: Much like ice accumulation, wet snow adds extra weight and stress, increasing the chance of damage. Moist snow sticks easily to trees and power lines.
• Snow on Roofs: Several feet from one or multiple storms accumulating on a roof can add stress, causing them to collapse.
• Flooding After the Snow: A rapid warm-up or rain following a winter storm with an expansive snow pack can set the stage for major flooding.

Melting snow and ice after a storm can also cause damage to the inside of your home or business. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central to assess the situation and put you to Pre-Winter condition, "Like it never even happened."

Call us (314) 260-7177

Clean your Gutters before Winter

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

With winter on it's way it's important to clean your gutter so they don't get clogged and cause water damage to your home.

Don't Fall for Procrastination

The seasons may have skipped right over Fall this year, but do not "fall" into procrastinating on cleaning those gutters.  Although it may not seem like it should be here, winter is here and those leaves in your gutters are not going to clean themselves. But if you do choose to "leave" it for later, you may have water problems to deal with now.

If your gutter becomes clogged it can lead to the water finding an alternate way to drain from your roof. Water taking a different course can cause many issues, such as: 

• Leaky Basement - water that cannot drain properly from your roof can collect around your basement or crawlspace and will eventually find its way in.
• Cracked Foundation - this occurs when water is absorbed into the foundation and over time with the change in temperatures will expand and contract, causing cracks.
• Wood Rot - water that is constantly coming into contact with the wood on your home will eventually rot the wood.

If you are already experiencing the effects of Fall Procrastination, and need help cleaning and restoring your home or business, call your Local Professionals to make it... "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central (314) 260-7177

Frozen Pipes are a Problem

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

Call the experts if you find out you have frozen pipes..

The cold weather and water can = problems for you..

We all need water and most of us here in the Midwest will soon be experiencing freezing or sub-zero temperatures. Add these two together and you could have a problem. You see, water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. Expanding water can cause pipes to break. No matter the material they are made from, including metal or plastic.

Recommendations to help prevent frozen pipes:

• Keep exterior doors closed to any area where the water pipes are located.
• Keep bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors open to allow warmer air to circulate.
• Let cold water drip from faucets, moving water is much harder to freeze.
• If you will be gone for an extended period, set the temperature to no lower than 55° F.

If you should experience frozen pipes this winter, please turn off the main water supply and call the Experts in water cleanup and restoration here at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central. 

SERVPRO First Responder Bowl

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

First Responder Bowl to be played December 30th.

Get.Fired.Up! 

In a joint effort to honor the service and sacrifice of America’s First Responders, the annual college football bowl game played at Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, Texas has been renamed the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl. Kickoff for the newly christened SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is set for Monday, Dec. 30. For the first time, the game will be played at SMU’s Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas.

“We are looking forward to the new venue and date as part of the celebration of the 10th year of this bowl game’s history,” said Brant Ringler, executive director of the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl. “In addition to those changes, we hope to grow the number of first responders who attend the game and find new ways to say thank you to them for their service in our communities.”

For additional information about the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl, please visit FirstResponderBowl.com. 

We are proud to be apart of something amazing, we hope you all watch on December 30th! 

Happy Holidays! 

Levels of Commercial Damage

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

No matter the level we will help you!

There are three levels of commercial damage that are considered:

Level 1

Level 1 is a small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include, but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Level 2 is a midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include, but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Level 3 is a large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include, but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.”

Water Damage in St. Louis Central

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

We are here 24/7 365 days a year!

Flooding and water damage can strike your St. Louis Central commercial property at any time. Water damage can sideline your business, regardless if the damage occurs from a major storm event or a broken water line. 

At SERVPRO of St. Louis Central we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area.  Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.  In many instances, normal operation can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Commercial Water Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore while working within your budget line.

Our staff of Highly Trained Restoration Specialists are trained in property damage restoration.  From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to regular IICRC industry certification, rest assured that our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Remember, when you have an emergency water event in St. Louis our Professionals offer fast, 24 hour emergency services, 365 days per year. 

Are you Prepared for Winter?

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Make sure you are prepared for the winter weather!

Winter storm preparation can help to eliminate costly repairs caused when your home or office is not protected from severe cold, snow, and ice.

Protect your roof and inspect gutters, flashing, and even your chimney.  Snow on the rooftop sounds nice in a song but it’s not nice when the snow melts and causes an ice dam. Winter storm preparation can help prevent costly water damage.  Pipes may burst because they’re in unheated, unprotected spaces without being insulated.  Water damage can happen when your attic isn’t well ventilated or insulated.  Doing so helps expel the warm air from inside the house and refresh it with cooler outside air which helps prevent condensation from occurring that can lead to mold and mildew, structural damage and ice dams. 

If your St. Louis Central home or business is damaged from a winter storm , take immediate action to prevent additional damage to your property and call us! 

Prevent Water Damage in the Winter Months

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Quick steps to get your home ready for winter.

We wanted to provide a list of some things to do to winterize your home and hopefully prevent a costly water intrusion. We are not re-inventing the wheel here. You have probably heard or read of these tips before. They are just good reminders we need to address each year. While simple in concept, do not make the mistake of procrastination. These simple tips only help if you take action.

• Drain the garden hose and detach from the faucet. If you need to use the hose later on remember it must be detached and drained after use. It is also a good idea to cover the outside faucet. A frozen outside faucet puts pressure on the interior system.
• Insulate exposed or vulnerable plumbing pipes. If they are not insulated, insulate them. If they are located on an exterior wall, especially a north facing exterior wall provide some additional protection. Make sure crawls space opening are covered and are not drafty.
• Clean your gutters and downspouts. Debris in your gutters can cause a back up of water which can cause water damage in any season. In the winter this water can freeze causing an ice dam causing water to back up under shingles and eventually into your home. Remember your guttering system has a top and a bottom. Clean out the top and always make sure the downspouts are clear from debris so the water can easily drain away from the property. Water not allowed to freely drain away will back up and possibly back into your home.
• Leave the heat ON. Even if you are leaving for an extended time. Even if we are talking about a part-time residence like a vacation home. Leave the thermostat to 55 degrees. A low energy bill is cheaper than a water mitigation and drying bill in most cases.
• Know your shut off location. All the prevention in the world cannot guarantee an accident or will not happen or an unprecedented weather event will not affect your home. If the worst-case scenario happens, be ready! Know where your water shut of is located. If tools are required to access it or turn it off, have those handy as well.

Mother Nature throws us a lot of curve balls. Our homes are in constant threat from the elements. If your home is affected this winter let SERVPRO of St. Louis Central fix your situation! 

Tree Safety

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Christmas Trees can start a huge fire that can completely damage your home.

The Christmas season is in full swing. During this time each year, the traditional Christmas tree fills the family room surrounded by presents. BE CAREFUL - Christmas tree fires are infrequent, but they can happen. Listed below are a few good measures that will help ensure your home’s safety:

• Make sure you pick a healthy tree; trees with brown needles indicate dryness.
• Make sure your tree is placed in a sturdy stand to prevent it from falling over.
• Make sure your stand has an adequate basin for water.
• Make sure to check and water your tree daily.
• Check your lights to make sure they are fire resistant and supported by a national testing organization.
• Keep your trees a safe distance from any heat source.
• Make sure that the lights and any extension cords used are in good working condition; look for and replace damaged wires.
• Check all the bulbs to make sure they are working properly.
• Make sure you have adequate smoke alarms in the area and they are working properly.

The SERVPRO of St.Louis Central team wants to ensure that everyone has a safe and joyous season. In the unlikely event that a fire were to occur, know that the SERVPRO team has your back! 

Giving Tuesday

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Donating things to Little Bit Foundation.

Recently one of our brand ambassadors, went to our local The Little Bit Foundation to tour their 33,000 sq/ft warehouse. They have been in business since 2001 and have now grown to serving over 42 schools in underserved communities (helping over 13,500 students this year and have helped a total of 40,000 students throughout the years). Their goal is to help basic needs, improve self-esteem, and enrich the learning environment. They want the students to graduate and go on to be productive, successful members of a stronger St. Louis region. Their first school district was Riverview Gardens. Go check out their page and show them some love!

We decided to partner with them by donating coats, socks, underwear, and gloves! If you want to support them too, make sure to do it on December 3rd for #givingtuesday2019

Frozen Pipes: A Winter Water Damage Emergency

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Low Temperatures can freeze pipes, make sure you are keeping an eye on your home during winter.

We can’t control the weather frigid winter temperatures are here in the Midwest, the lower temperatures cause a new set of seasonal Missouri property disasters including frozen pipes, ice dams and other frozen water damage concerns.

Every winter our SERVPRO of St. Louis Central professionals help countless homes with the restoration, cleanup and repair of their property following a frozen water property disaster.

Why is a Frozen Pipe a Concern?

• When water begins to freeze, it expands. This can cause both plastic and metal pipes to burst, possibly leading to significant water damage to your home or business.
• Since water expands when it freezes, it puts unwanted pressure on pipes.
• As water freezes, the force exerted from the expansion can cause a pipe to burst, regardless of the strength of the material.
• You may not know you have a burst pipe as the water has turned to ice. Once the temperature starts to warm and thawing begins, leaking and flooding can occur.

FROZEN PIPE WATER DAMAGE TREATMENT AND RESTORATION

The key to avoiding costly secondary damage is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property with proper mitigation. Our SERVPRO of St. Louis Central team has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. We begin removing the standing water from your property with extraction methods, and rapidly dry your structure and contents with dehumidifiers that lower the indoor humidity levels, so your building dries out quickly. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of St. Louis Central professionals will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment.

FROZEN PIPE PREVENTION

Short- and Long-term solutions for low temperature plumbing problems include:

• Locate and seal cracks and openings in the walls, attic, basement or crawlspace.
• Weather strip and caulk around crawlspace doors and basement windows.
• Make sure your home is properly insulated. Pay special attention to areas where pipes are located.
• Insulate unprotected pipes and don't leave gaps. Pipe sleeves simplify the process. Keep the pieces tight against each other and seal the slits and joints with duct tape.
• Install storm windows over basement windows or replace the old windows with energy-efficient alternatives.
• Find your main water shutoff so you can turn off the water quickly if needed. Locations vary — look in the crawlspace or basement where the water supply enters the house, inside a water meter box directly outside the house or near the water heater.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air flow around the supply lines. Move any cleaners or other chemicals out of the reach of children.
• Keep your thermostat at the daytime setting during the night. If you'll be away for several days during subfreezing weather, keep it set above 55° F.

Thanksgiving Safety Tips

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful for all we have! Enjoy the holidays!

Safety First 

Studies show that cooking is the main cause for most home fires and burn related injuries. With Thanksgiving being the busiest cooking day of the year.  It's good to know some safety tips to have a safe, and happy Thanksgiving holiday.  

• Never leave food that is cooking unattended, especially when frying or broiling food. The stove should be turned off if you must leave the kitchen
• Keep anything that could easily catch fire a safe distance away from flames, or hot surfaces. Examples such as; potholders,towels of any material, paper or plastic bags, and wooden utensils.
• Cooking surfaces should be kept clean to prevent grease buildup.
• Always make sure to check the kitchen before leaving the home or going to bed.  Check to see that all ovens, stoves and appliances are shut off and stored correctly. 
• Have a fire extinguisher near by, and know how to properly use it if needed. Also smoke alarms should be checked monthly to see if properly functioning. 

SERVPRO of SERVPRO St. Louis Central wishes you a safe and happy holiday season!  Gobble Gobble! 

Fire Safety During Thanksgiving

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving is the busiest holiday of the year, make sure you stay safe during this busy time!

Did you know that Thanksgiving is the busiest day of the year for fire departments when it comes to home fires involving cooking equipment? With more home cooks cooking larger meals than they are probably used to, the number of home fires involving cooking equipment spikes to nearly 4 times the daily average on Thanksgiving! Whether you plan to be in charge of the kitchen or are just helping out, be sure to follow these important safety tips when preparing this year's Thanksgiving feast!

• Start your Thanksgiving with a clean stove and oven! The weekend before Thanksgiving, remove any food or grease buildup from burners, stovetops, and the oven. 
• Always stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop. While items in the oven may not require as attentive an eye, food on the stovetop should have constant monitoring in case of spillage or splatter. 
• Stay in the home while cooking the turkey. You don't need to set up camp and keep a constant eye on the turkey once it's in the oven, but you should stay inside and check on it frequently. The last thing you want is a burnt turkey that sets your kitchen on fire!
• Keep a flame-resistant oven mitt, potholder, or lid near your cooking space so that you can smother any flames before they get out of control.
• Should an oven fire occur, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. This should allow the fire to burn out on its own. Once the fire has gone out, open your windows before carefully opening the oven door to release the smoke.  
• Make sure your home has working smoke alarms and that your family knows the fire escape route in the event of a fire. Remember to always plan TWO WAYS OUT of every room. 
• Avoid using turkey fryers, but if you must, make sure to follow the fryer's instructions. Also be sure to completely thaw the turkey before frying and always fry outside at a safe distance from the home. 

Stay safe this holiday season! Should your home experience any fire damage, be sure to call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central to make that fire "like it never happened." 

Ways to Avoid A Fire

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

A recent fire that caused significant damage to a St. Louis home.

Unfortunately fires can happen.. We hope you never have to experience a fire, incase you do here are some ways to avoid a fire. 

Fires devastate homes and businesses and cause damage in numerous ways. Not only is fire destructive, but it also leaves behind lingering and pervasive odors.. Also not to mention extensive water damage that results from the firefighter’s efforts to extinguish the flames. The professionals at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central have the specialized training, equipment and experience that will restore your home or place of work back to the way it looked before or even better!

To increase the odds that you’ll stay safe, consider these Top 10 causes of fire. This information will help you plan how to make your home or business a safer place to be at!

1. Cooking: Avoid splattering grease, never leave kitchens unattended and keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
2. Heating Equipment: Have your furnace checked regularly and keep portable heaters away from combustibles.
3. Smoking: If you smoke in or near the house, always make sure the cigarette butt is fully put out and make the bedroom off-limits to smoking.
4. Electricity: Look out for frayed cords, the overuse of extension cords and overloaded outlets, and don’t run electrical wires under rugs or heavy furniture.
5. Candles: Never leave them unattended and keep them out of the reach of children or pets.
6. Children: Keep them away from matches and lighters to suppress any curiosity they may have about what happens when different items burn.
7. Inadequate wiring: It’s often found in older homes and apartments. Have a professional electrician check yours.
8. Flammable Liquids: Keep fuels, solvents, cleaning agents, thinners, adhesives, and paints away from heat sources.
9. Holiday Decor: Keep your Christmas tree well-watered and away from heat sources. Check decorative lights for damage and never place candles on or near Christmas trees.
10. Grills: Keep them away from your home, deck rails, tablecloths and tree limbs. And never use them indoors, including your garage.

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central has the knowledge, professional equipment and ability to eliminate all traces of a fire. Besides the easily accessible areas, we also examine wall cavities, duct work, crawl spaces and plumbing chases to establish whether they also suffered any smoke or fire damage. We will make sure that all fire damage is cleaned, repaired, or removed and leave your home or business as if it never even happened. Because that is the SERVPRO way! 

How Does Mold Spread?

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

When water is introduced the colony can grow quickly.

Let's face it.. Mold can happen anywhere, even in your St. Louis, MO home! Much like a cold virus spreads through the air looking for a host, mold spores travel through the air looking for the next hospitable environment to latch onto.. Crazy right? Any damp, fibrous material is a prime breeding ground for mold.

What Causes Mold To Spread?

As mold grows, it releases spores. These spores travel easily through the air, especially when disturbed. When performing cleanup of mold, it is important to minimize spreading mold spores by taking some precautions:

• Turn off all fans
• Protect from breezes
• Lower humidity
• Isolate the area
• Isolate moldy objects

Is It Mold?

Mold can grow on any fibrous material when enough moisture is present. This includes carpets, furniture and drywall. Did you know there are at least 35 species of mold, ranging in color, texture and size. If you have any type of water damage or humidity and see something new covering an area, you should suspect mold. Even if you cannot see mold, a musky odor may indicate that mold is present but out of sight. Mold multiplies very quickly! A Very small spot can turn into a large area of mold. If the spores become airborne, you will soon see the same pattern in another area. Once you suspect mold, you should immediately isolate the area and begin cleanup efforts.

How Can Moldy Areas Be Cleaned?

If your moldy area is small, you can attempt to clean it yourself, but be very careful to avoid spreading or breathing in mold spores. If your area is larger, or have black mold we recommend you a specialist to help you out. Specialists are specifically trained to clean mold without spreading spores. They also have specialized protective gear that you may not have access to, such as masks and protective suits.
If you suspect you have mold or spreading mold, you need to hire mold remediation expert to resolve the problem and restore your property to its original condition.

If you have anymore questions don't hesitate to ask SERVPRO of St. Louis Central today! 

October means Halloween

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Make sure to follow these safety rules for Halloween.

Halloween is for costumes, candy and fun! No one wants their fun to be spoiled by a fire! SERVPRO of St. Louis Central wants everyone to have a fun and safe time this Halloween! We have a list of safety tips below provided by the National Fire Prevention Association.

• Candles - Refrain from having an open flame. Use battery-operated candles or glow-sticks in your jack-o-lanterns.
• Costumes - Choose the right costume. Stay away from long or flowing fabric, and skip extraneous costume pieces.
• Decorations - Avoid flammable decorations including dried flowers, cornstalks and crepe paper that are highly flammable. Keep decorations away from open flames and other heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.
• Exits - Remember to keep all decorations away from doors so that they are not blocking any exits or escape routes.
• Smoke alarms - Make sure all your smoke alarms are working and up to date.
• Visibility - Provide flashlights to children or have them carry glow sticks as part of their costumes. Make sure if a child is wearing a mask that the eye holes are large enough to see out of them.

 SERVPRO of St. Louis Central wishes everyone a fun and safe Halloween!

Where smoke alarms are Installed!

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement. Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds they all sound.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
• People who are hard of hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
• Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan! 

Fire Escape Plan

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Have a Fire Escape Plan

Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Make sure to install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, level and outside each separate sleeping area. Bring everyone in your household together and make a plan. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes.

Consider drawing a floor plan of your home if you have children. This will help them visually see the exits. Make sure to mark two ways out of each room, including windows and doors.

Escape planning tips:

• Check to make sure the escape routes are clear and doors and windows can be opened easily.
• Choose an outside meeting place (i.e. neighbor's house, a light post, mailbox, or stop sign) a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they've escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan.
• Go outside to see if your street number is clearly visible from the road. If not, paint it on the curb or install house numbers to ensure that responding emergency personnel can find your home.
• Have everyone memorize the emergency phone number of the fire department. That way any member of the household can call from a neighbor's home or a cellular phone once safely outside.
• Once you're out, stay out! Under no circumstances should you ever go back into a burning building. If someone is missing, inform the fire department dispatcher when you call. Firefighters have the skills and equipment to perform rescues.

Fires are dangerous and we want to make sure you and your family are prepared! 

Back-to-School Safety!

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Person charging phone

Be Safe When Charing Electronic Devices

Technology is such an important part of our lives today. We often make it a priority to keep them as close to us as possible, and also to ensure that they are charged and ready to use for the day. Because of our need to stay connected, we often forget about the potential dangers of keeping them so close to us, especially at night when we typically plug them in to charge.

Things to keep in mind when charging you phone or tablet: 

1. Electronic devices should not be charged on flammable surfaces. So, don't tuck your phone under your pillow, on your bed, or on your couch while it is charging. 

2. Use the charger and cord that is specific to your device. 

3. Ensure that the charging cord does not have any exposed wires and is working properly. 

4. If possible, charge your device during the day and turn it off at night. 

Keep yourself and loved ones safe by following these fire-safe phone charging practices! 

Accidents do happen, so if you ever need assistance with home restorations after a fire make sure to contact SERVPRO St. Louis Central today! 

National Back To School Month

8/16/2019 (Permalink)

Hot temperatures outside and high humidity inside is a disaster waiting to happen for schools. Call us today!

Ready or not, it's August and it is time for the school bells to be ringing again! It's time to dust off those backpacks, fill them up with supplies and plan for a new school year! 

Excitement is an understatement, but sometimes there can be some dampers throughout the school year. A busted pipe or leaky HVAC can put a damper on the school year. 

During those hot summer days, school are left untouched and HVAC systems are usually turned off to reduce the costs! Humidity can be another problem causing mold buildup too. 

For precautionary measures throughout the summer months make sure all systems are left on, because the risk may outweigh the reward! 

Get ready to learn, because school is here!  

Insurance Agents Choose SERVPRO

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

One stop shop for all your needs!

Why Many Insurance Agents And Adjusters Use SERVPRO

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central has worked with many insurance agents and claim adjusters. We understand your situation. As an agent or adjuster, you have a responsibility to keep claim costs down while providing the best services possible for your clients. Here are a few reasons why so many insurance agents and adjusters trust us:

Fast Emergency Response
Restoring commercial or residential property is the first priority at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central. Your insurance client will appreciate our immediate response and you will know we’re doing everything we can to limit the damage and the costs.

Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense
Like insurance agents and claim adjusters, we know restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. Our goal is always to restore whenever possible and replace only when necessary. That’s why SERVPRO of St. Louis Central performs pretesting on every loss so we can determine restorability.

Claims Inventory Service
SERVPRO of St. Louis Central can provide insurance agents and claim adjusters with an itemized loss inventory. We give you a report and pictures of important items. Your work is made simpler and clearer because we provide you with a complete and accurate picture of the incident.

Serving Adjusters and Your Clients
A SERVPRO of St. Louis Central professional's job is to reassure your clients, perform quality service, and report to you quickly. We know your job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim. We don’t want you to have to deal with problems from vendors. Working with you, we strive to save you time so you can focus on priority files, while having complete control of every loss you’re assigned. We offer you 24-hour emergency response, damage mitigation, loss assessment, and an electronic file within hours. SERVPRO of St. Louis Central’s documented, measured performance increases value for you, your agency, your managers, and your clients.

Here To Help 
The job of SERVPRO St. Louis Central is to reassure the customer, provide excellent service and communicate with the insurance agents and adjusters quickly. We work together with the agents to provide quick and effective property restoration and make it “Like it never even happened.” We are a one-stop shop for all of your needs!

Call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central.

Life Expediency Numbers

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let this $10 flexible water supply line cost you thousands in mitigation costs.

Did you know many common plumbing components have a life span? Many of them have expectancies much shorter than we might think. Here is a few that we see quite often. The fix is relatively inexpensive; but neglecting it can cause thousands of dollars in mitigation and drying costs.

Water heaters have an expected life span of about 10-12 years. Most of the time these fail because the rubber and metal components in side the tank are in constant contact with water which will naturally break them down over time.

Sump pumps are a vital tool for anyone with a basement or crawl space that takes on ground water after rain storms. Most of these pumps have a life span of about 7 years.

The average sink faucet has a life span of less than 15 years. Because of the flex hose design of the sprayer component, these may fail sooner. Most flex hoses fail after just 10 years. Also, included in the flex hose category are flexible supply lines for sinks, toilets, and washing machines. It is advisable to have these flex hoses replaced every 5 to 10 years. A $10 replacement hose may save you thousands down the road.

One of these plumbing components beat you to the punch? Don’t worry! We can get you back to normal again “Like it never even happened.”

Deodorizing After A Fire Damage

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

Ozone Machine

Things You Should Know

One of the biggest problem after an incidence of fire is the lingering, foul, burnt odor. If the odor is not remedied professionally, it can stay on your property for a long time making it almost impossible to stay there.

Thankfully, professionals can help you get rid of this odor after fire damage to your Lenexa home. The odor after an incidence of fire is a mix of chemical and natural odors due to the burning of wood, plastic, and other building material. Here at SERVPRO, we employ a multi-step process to eliminate odor and get your home smelling like home again- removing, and cleaning. Let's take a closer look at every step.

Removing 
One of the first things that SERVPRO technicians do while tackling an odor problem after a fire is removing the source of the odor. The source of odor after a fire damage can be burnt wood or other building materials. Our IICRC certified technicians dispose of the source in a safely and efficiently.

Cleaning  
The second step during the deodorizing process is cleaning. Smoke and soot residues can deposit on and even penetrate the various surfaces such as walls and ceilings. SERVPRO technicians clean different surfaces depending on the type of the surface and residue deposited on it.

Sealing 
Sealing is not required in most cases, but if the damage is extensive and the removal of the source is too expensive or impractical, it is the best option. Painting walls to seal in the odors is one such case.

We are here to help you in your hour of need. Call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central today! 

April Showers Bring May Flowers

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

April showers help to bring us the most vibrant May flowers and we are so happy with this change of season.

However, when April showers are more like torrential, relentless downpours we could face a flooded basement and other water damage causing costly repairs. Flooding generally occurs in the springtime as the result of heavy rains that cannot be adequately absorbed by the still thawing earth. Particularly formidable are the flash floods resulting from thunderstorms, swiftly melting snow and ice jams in creeks. Consider if more than one of these circumstances happens at the same time, you have the potential for a catastrophe with flooding waters and raging mudslides.

Homeowners you can take some simple precautions to secure your property and keep your possessions safe.

Elevate: Keep your furnace, water heater, electrical panels above predicted water levels to protect yourself from costly home replacements.

Install check valves: These valves close to prevent the backward flow of liquid and prevent water from backing up into the drains in your home.

Build barriers: Use sandbags to create flood walls to prevent or reduce flow of water into your home.

Waterproof the basement: Use a waterproofing compound to seal the walls of your basement.

Clean: Clean gutters, drains and downspouts for proper water flow.

Purchase flood insurance: Most standard homeowners' and business insurance policies unfortunately do no cover flood damage. In the event of a flood, you would be responsible for covering the full cost of repairs and replacing items damaged.

We provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

Understanding the P.A.S.S. Technique with Fire Extinguishers

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

A fire extinguisher is one of the most essential pieces of life-saving equipment in your commercial property. While your fire suppression system is excellent for your overall facility and alarms will ensure the safe evacuation of your employees or tenants, extinguishers provide a direct line of defense and allow for immediate response to manageable fires. However, there is a four-step process known as the P.A.S.S. technique.

1. Pull

The first step is to pull the pin from the extinguisher handle. The removal of this pin will allow the handle to be fully compressed, releasing the compressed air and chemical mixture to extinguish the flames.

2. Aim

A fire extinguisher will typically have a short, flexible, rubber hose attached to the nozzle and extending away from the handle. This will allow you to aim the compressed mixture at the fire. However, be sure to avoid contact with the discharge opening as the CO2 can damage your skin.

3. Squeeze

Squeezing the handle will release the extinguishing agent. Its mixture will come out quickly and somewhat powerfully, so be prepared and keep firm aim on the blaze.

4. Sweep

You will want to use a sweeping motion, focusing the extinguishing mixture on the base of the fire. Continue this process until the fire is out. After the fire is out, watch the are and ensure that there are no remaining embers. It is possible for a fire to reignite, causing more fire damage.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the proper extinguisher technique, you can contact your local fire department or a fire remediation specialist in the St. Louis Central Area! 

We Work Closely with Your Insurance Provider

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to customer service, we make continual efforts to make sure that not only you are satisfied by all parties involved are happy with the services we provide. We stay in constant contact with your insurance adjuster, agent and carrier to make sure all parties involved are informed with the services we provide and the progress that is made during the claim. This is paramount to us! A perfectly satisfied customer is a repeat customer! The relationships that are forged by premier customer service provided to each and every home owner, business owner and insurance agent mean so much to us. It only takes one bad job to cancel out a thousand "great outcomes." We strive to make sure that doesn't happen. 

Can Your Belongings Recover From Mold Growth?

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

How To Recover From Mold Growth?

Moisture and high humidity can attract mold spores into your St. Louis, home, where they can grow across a variety of surfaces. While mold commonly grows on building surfaces like drywall and carpeting, it can also affect your belongings, such as clothing and furniture. Mold cleaning can be difficult; however, before you throw items away, you may want to learn about which could be saved by different types of professional cleansing processes and which cannot. 

1. Throw Away Porous Items 

Most porous surfaces can absorb water and encourage further mold growth. As such, some items like mattresses, thick rugs and stuffed toys that already show signs of mold damage are usually not salvageable. If your child has a favorite stuffed toy that you want to attempt to save, ask your remediation technicians if they have any mold cleaning processes that may help. You may want to remember, however, that porous items affected by black mold are usually considered unsalvageable because this type of fungus is particularly hard to eradicate. 


2. Freeze Documents and Books 

If you have important documents and books that developed mold, place them in sealable plastic bags and store them in your freezer. Freezing these items can inhibit further mold growth and protect them until they can be inspected by an expert mold remediation and restoration company. This can salvage items like original birth certificates, wedding albums and baby books. 

3. Set Aside Moldy Clothing 

If you have favorite items of clothing that have been affected by mold, ask your remediation technicians about what type of options you have for salvaging them. Wet, dry and immersion cleaning may all be possible, especially for leather jackets and shoes. Some companies have access to an Esporta Machine, which cleans soft contents by removing tough odors, dirt and mold in a way that even commercial-grade units cannot. 

Mold can have a devastating effect on your home’s contents. However, professional mold cleaning processes may be able to salvage your treasured possessions, even if you believe they are beyond repair.

Storm Preparedness Steps

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Storm Preparedness

If you are a homeowner in St. Louis, MO, you have probably thought about what might happen if a storm causes your house to flood. Planning is always important where storm safety is concerned, especially if you live in a flood zone. Here are four steps that you can take to prepare your home and family for a potential storm involving flood water.

1. Sign Up for Local Alerts

If your community offers an emergency warning system, sign up for it as soon as you can. Alerts are also provided by the Emergency Alert System and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio.

2. Determine Your Flood Risk

Do you live in a flood zone? If you don't know, it may be time to visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Flood Map Service Center online to find out. If it turns out that floods are a significant concern in your area, you will likely want to purchase flood insurance for your property.

3. Protect Valuables

Valuables can easily become damaged from flood water. Protect yours by keeping gutters and drains cleared, purchasing a battery-operated sump pump and moving said items to higher levels in your house. Important paperwork should be digitized and stored in a waterproof box to protect it from water damage in a flooded building.

4. Plan Your Escape

Having a smart escape route in place is important when a flood is threatening your home. Put a plan for emergency shelter in place, and practice various escape paths with your family on a regular basis. Having supplies such as batteries and medicine on hand is also very important.

Your first priority with flood water is to get yourself and your loved ones to safety. Your property also matters, but storm damage restoration specialists can typically help you resolve any damage that does occur. Planning ahead of time by following the steps above puts you in a better position to keep your family and your investments safer in a flood-related storm.

Staying Safe During and After a Flood

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Do you know how dangerous flood water can be? A depth of 6 inches can sweep you away, and a depth of 12 inches can sweep your car away. Floods are fast-moving and aggressive, and if you didn’t heed the warnings to evacuate, then you need to know how to stay safe not just during the flood but after.

1. Staying Safe During 

During a flood, you should stay in a safe location, and it is best to discuss this location with others so that when/if you need to be rescued your family can give first responders the most accurate information. Your safe place should be an elevated location. If you choose your house, do not go into the enclosed attic. The level you want should have numerous exit points so that the rising waters do not trap you. Additionally, when the flood begins, stay at your designated location. Do not attempt to leave, unless absolutely necessary because you could be at risk of drowning. Essentially, staying safe during a flood comes down to remaining calm and trying to stay above the rising water.

2. Staying Safe After

Standing flood water can be potentially hazardous. Not only do possible downed power lines present the risk of electrocution, but the water itself may also be contaminated from sewage and other debris. While a building was your sanctuary during the flood, a flooded building now presents serious health risks. If it is not possible to stay in a dry area, it may be wise to wear heavy gloves and boots to prevent contact with any potentially hazardous materials, but it is best to avoid contact if possible. When the time comes, seek out restoration specialists SERVPRO of St. Louis Central, to restore your home from any lasting water damage and to help with any hazardous cleanup.

Flooding and the resulting flood water are dangerous. It is never wise to ignore a call to evacuate, but it is not always possible to leave. When you must stay behind, it is essential to find high ground and avoid contact with contaminated materials. 

Give SERVPRO of St. Louis Central a call today! 

Esporta Machine

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

The Esporta Wash System is the disaster restoration industry’s only wet-wash machine designed exclusively to recover “soft contents” damaged in fire and water disasters. Soft contents include items such as footwear, linens, outerwear, leathers, bedding, outdoor items, athletic equipment, survival gear, sleeping bags, life jackets, stuffed toys, and almost all of your personal clothing.

The patented system breaks down unwanted organic materials and kills bacteria, viruses, and mold spores on contact. The system also removes organic and inorganic contaminants without degrading or damaging the materials. It is five times more effective than traditional front-loading washing machines. 

If you have favorite items of clothing that have been affected by mold, ask your remediation technicians about what type of options you have for salvaging them! 

What to do in a Case of a Kitchen Fire

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

Do you know what to do when a kitchen fire flares?

Electrical fires? Grease fires? What do you need to do?

Here are some tips to follow to prepare you if you ever have a fire in your kitchen!

Electrical

Fires can happen anywhere in the kitchen- near an electrical outlet, in the microwave, or even in the stove. Here are some tips to go by.

• Electrical: If a fire starts, use a fire extinguisher, never douse it with water. Always call the fire department for an electrical fire, even if you have already put it out with the fire extinguisher.
• Oven: Immediately close the oven door and turn it off. If the fire doesn’t go out right away, call the fire department.
• Microwave: Close the microwave door and keep it closed. Turn the microwave off and unplug it if you can do so safely.

Grease

Grease fires should not be handled like any other kitchen fire. Rule number #1 never pour water on a grease fire. The best way to handle a grease fire it to smother it, if possible, and then let it die out.

• If grease catches on fire in your cooking pan, quickly put on the oven mitt, then place the lid over the pan to smother the fire. Next try sliding the lid over the flames as opposed to dropping the lid down from above.
• Turn off the burner and leave the pan where it is at so the pan can cool down.

You should never hesitate to call the fire department. But if it is a small, contained fire, you should follow the above steps to try to extinguish it while waiting for help to arrive. Also remember safety first to keep yourself and your family protected and call for help.

For kitchen cleaning up and fixing make sure to contact SERVPRO of St. Louis Central!

Seal Your Home Before the Rain Starts

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

When the rain starts your home is supposed to keep yourself and your belongings dry. However, some moisture can get in if your home has not been maintained or checked for broken seals.

What to do if you are experiencing moisture in your home:

• Re-caulk windows seals
• Re-caulk door seals
• Consider adding overhangs to doors and windows
• Check for missing shingles on the roof
• Metal roofs are expensive but last longer than 30year shingles

Doing or considering adding fixtures to your home will keep the moisture out, and it may even add beauty and equity to your home.

At SERVPRO of St. Louis Central, we take pride in our fast and effective response team, dedicated to getting you back up and running as soon as possible.

Crawl Space Water Damage

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

A crawl space is like that cabinet where you store your tax information. There is important information in there, but you never take a look inside. Further, because you’re so rarely in your crawl space, a problem inside can cause significant damage to essential parts of your home before you notice that anything is wrong.

Where did the damage come from?

-Leaky or broken pipes

-Roof leak

- Excess humidity

How do you dry out a Crawl Space? 

You can call our team of professional experts at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central to fix the problem. Here at SERVPRO they have handled issues like water damage many many times.

For more information check out our website to learn more about water damage. 

https://www.SERVPROstlouiscentral.com/

Mold Damage Tips After A Flood

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

If your home or commercial building recently flooded due to storm damage or some sort of plumbing issues, you're probably unsure of the next step. Not only are you worried about property damage from the water, but you also have to worry about mold in your home or business. Mold can affect indoor air quality, can cause significant property damage and can cause a foul smell that even the best deodorization techniques can't get rid of! Follow these tips if you're dealing with residential or commercial mold. 

Get Rid of Moisture

This is the very first step! Before the mold can be properly addressed, as much moisture as possible needs to be removed. If there is standing water, it can be dangerous to walk into your home or commercial property, so please make sure you can safely enter the building or structure.  

Protect Yourself 

You just never really know what can be floating around in standing water that can hurt you. For example, electrical wiring. You don't want to endure an electrical shock. Once you know you can safely enter, PROTECT YOURSELF by wearing protective clothing, such as gloves and a face mask. 

Hire a Professional

The best thing you can do is leave it to the experts. Rely on a team of professionals to help get your home or business back in tip-top shape. Experts can come in and assess the true extent of the damage and help ensure all of the molds is properly remediated. We promise it could save you a lot of time, money and headaches in the future. 

Visit our website today to learn more about mold. 

https://www.SERVPROstlouiscentral.com/

Power Outages

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

Power Outages

Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may:

• Disrupt communications, water, and transportation.

• Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks, and other services.

• Cause food spoilage and water contamination.

• Prevent use of medical devices.

PROTECT YOURSELF DURING A POWER OUTAGE:

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.

• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.

• Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.

• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.

• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.

• If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling.

• Check on neighbors.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A POWER OUTAGE THREATENS: 

Prepare NOW

• Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.
• Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
• Plan for batteries and other alternatives to meet your needs when the power goes out.
• Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. Monitor weather reports.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home.
• Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.
• Review the supplies that are available in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member. Have enough nonperishable food and water.
• Use a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer so that you can know the temperature when the power is restored. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
• Keep mobile phones and other electric equipment charged and gas tanks full.

Prevent Heat Related Fires

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

It’s going to get cold again here soon…

Besides using the fireplace to stay warm some people use alternative sources such as portable space heaters, and wood burning stoves. Heating equipment is the cause for many residential fires annually, causing deaths, injury and property damage. Here are some tips to help you reduce the risk of a heating-related fire:

TOP TIPS 

-Keep flammable items at least three feet away from heating equipment

-Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturers instructions

-Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed

-Plug space heaters directly into outlets, never into an extension cord or power strip.

-Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters

-Install and maintain carbon monoxide and smoke alarms inside your home and business.

-Test alarms monthly

-Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional

-Make sure fireplaces have a screen to help prevent sparks

-Make sure ashes are cool before putting them in a metal container.

For more information on safety tips call your local fire department.

SERVPRO Moves to New Location

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

New Building.

 January 31, 2019 (St. Louis, MO) - SERVPRO of St. Louis Central Director of Business Development, Mike Walker, announces the purchase of a 25,708 square foot warehouse facility located at 2118 59th Street in St. Louis, MO.    SERVPRO of St. Louis Central provides cleanup, restoration and reconstruction services for residential and commercial customers in the St. Louis area, as well as responds to commercial large-loss and catastrophic storm disaster events. According to Walker, “The new, larger facility streamlines our operations and allows us to serve both residential and commercial clients from one location.  The St. Louis community has embraced the fact that we not only offer clean-up and restoration services after water or fire damage, but we also offer in-house reconstruction services.  This truly sets us apart from other restoration companies and has helped us more than double in size in the past year.” 

Ice Blasting for Fire Restoration

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Dry Ice

Dry ice blasting is one of the best ways to restore properties that have smoke or fire damage.  Dry Ice blasting is ideal for the restoration of wood, concrete, brick and building materials because it’s fast, dries instantly and leaves little or no residue.  It is very efficient with the removal of smoke, mildew, smell, mold and other damages without causing deterioration of the surface. 

Here is why you should get it done! 

• It is safe for electrical components 
• Cleans without surface erosion 
• No water damage
• No need for acid
• Cleans wood, brick, concrete and other things to get rid of the smell 

Ice blasting has many benefits such as faster, cleaners, safer but more important it is very efficient! 

Call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central today! 

Checking your House for Mold?

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

Here is an after photo of a case of mold in the kitchen.

There is quite a bit of contradictory advice when it comes to testing for mold in the home; namely, whether it’s a DIY-type job or one that calls for the experts. But as most things are, it’s not a black and white answer. With different circumstances it requires different approaches.

Here are some warning signs..

• Smell. The musty aroma accompanying mold is the only real tell-tale sign that you have a problem. Never had the misfortune of smelling mold? Well, lucky you! 
• Allergies. Sneezing, runny nose or sore eyes? Chances are there are some mold lingering in your house.
• Serious health problems, such as damage to internal organs or mental impairment, can be indicative of toxic mold, which is a serious problem. So get figured out fast!
• Visible growth. Seeing mold is iron-clad proof that it exists, but often it’s the mold you can’t see that is most problematic. Mold is always hiding.
• Water problems. If your home has recently been flooded or you’ve suffered leaky pipes, chances are you’re going to have a mold problem. So don't push it off for a tomorrow problem..

Call in the Experts! 

Although mold is an everyday problem that may seem to be more irritating than anything else, when toxic mold enters the equation it’s a whole new ball game. If you have the slightest suspicion about mold in your household contact SERVPRO of St. Louis Central Today! 

(314) 260-7177

Black Mold on your Ceiling?

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

Black mold on Ceiling.

If you smell a sour odor in your bathroom, the solution may be above you. The first place that usually develops mold in your household is the bathroom. Few people notice and act on the mold immediately but by the time you do notice it, black mold will look awful, and it may even pose health risks. What do you do when you find it, and is it dangerous? Call SERVPRO! 

So.. What causes Mold? 

The bathroom is a common place for mold to first develop because most bathrooms have all of the risk factors for mold growth including:

• Water, dampness
• High humidity
• Warmth
• Low air circulation
• Low lighting
• Oils

What are the Dangers of Black Mold?

Toxic black mold, can release spores as it feeds on organic materials in common household materials like drywall, carpet, insulation or sub-flooring that have been exposed to moisture. But, severe cases of prolonged exposure, black mold health effects can be more dangerous. Often compounded by allergic reaction to the black mold spores, these symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and bleeding in the lungs and nose.

Remember that while you should handle all mold promptly, health effects from mold exposure is very rare. There’s no need to panic. Plus, simply reducing your humidity and increasing air circulation is usually enough to keep mold from returning.

If you do have a reoccurring mold issue be sure to call the specialists at SERVPRO! 

What to do with Belongings after a Disaster

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

Water and fire damage affect not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of St. Louis Central understands that your home is more than a structure. Your furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings are important to you. Your belongings are important to us, which is why we provide the following to help restore and protect your belongings while we are restoring your home.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO of St. Louis Central can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. A move-out will provide several benefits, including the following:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

On-Site Storage

We have in-house storage where we can keep your belongings safe from further damage, and can provide cleaning and restoration services for your belongings. We have warehouses dedicated to storage where we can keep your items safe and secure. Your items will be placed in clearly identified and secured containers. You can rest assured that your items are being taken care of.

If your home and belongings need restoration services, rest assured that SERVPRO of St. Louis Central has you covered. We can pack out, store and restore your belongings. Give us a call today at 314-260-7177. 

Hurricane Michael

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Michael strenghtened to a CAT 4 strength with sustained winds at 155mph. As Michael made landfall it caused significant flooding and wind destruction in the Northern Gulf areas of the Florida Panhandle. High flood risks flash flooding and widespread wind damage is expected from Florida, across Georgia, North and South Carolina.

Our SERVPRO of St. Louis Central team had been deployed to help with the commercial restoration needs of the area. What we saw as a team down in Florida was devastating, and so unreal. We helped out as many companies, schools and others as much as we could.

Here pictured is some of the condos, and houses that we helped clean up. As you can see the roofs are damaged, siding, stair cases ruined and much more.

Prayers out to the people affected by Hurricane Michael.

Always be Prepared

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading efforts to encourage the community as a whole to become more prepared. “Disasters happen” and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities. Learn how to be prepared.

Make and Practice Your Plan Do you have an evacuation and shelter-in-place plan? Do you have a plan to communicate with your family before, during and after an incident? Do you have an emergency supply kit? Make sure your family is informed and practiced in your emergency plan. Be sure to sign up for alerts and warnings for your area, and download other necessary apps to stay informed.

Learn Life Saving Skills Do you or someone in your family know CPR? Could you turn off your natural gas if necessary? Do you know how to take cover in an earthquake? Knowing these life saving skills could mean life or death in an emergency situation for you, your family or your neighbors.

Emergency Tips

11/26/2018 (Permalink)

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO of St. Louis Central today! 

(314) 260-7177

What to do before help arrives

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

In the event of a storm water damage, SERVPRO of St. Louis Central wants our customers to stay safe.   Here are some important emergency water damage tips that SERVPRO encourages our customers to review:

Shut off your water source or contact a qualified person to do it for you.

Turn off circuit breakers when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.

Mop up as much of the excess area as you can.

Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

Move paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other sensitive valuables to a dry place.

Don't enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water.  You want to avoid electrical shock hazards.

Don't use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water; this could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.

Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet; and do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Have An Emergency? Call SERVPRO of St.Louis Central! 

 (314) 260-7177

24 Hour Emergency Service

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Is water where it is not supposed to be in your home or business? This is not a situation that can wait. Immediate mitigation services are needed. Our dedicated technicians at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central are ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help. You can expect an immediate response and quick action.

A speedy response reduces the migration of the water. That in turn reduced the amount of moisture absorbed by materials and contents in the affected area. These fast actions reduce the drying time, lessens the need for demolition, and keeps cost lower. We want to make sure you feel “Like it never even happened” as soon as possible.

Faster to Any Size Emergency

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of St. Louis Central arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

Highly Trained Restoration Specialists

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Training

We have always put a high priority into educating our team. That need is more important than ever today. SERVPRO is an IICRC certified firm with certified technicians. That means you can expect the very highest in standards and protocol to be used in your home or business.

IICRC Training and Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

SERVPRO State Meeting

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

Columbia, MO meeting room.

Missouri Directorship held a state meeting in Columbia, MO. SERVPRO franchise members gathered for this all day event. They were there to learn about upcoming initiatives and how to improve on their customer relationships.

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is growing and developing customer base by utilizing a systematic process to identify new prospects and to routinely contact and follow up with customers. They are always looking for new ways to build their relationships, so the state meeting was a great learning experience!

Here at SERVPRO we are happy to have employees that are anxious to learn new ways to help each customer individually. We believe each job we get assigned is personal. 

We all learned so much to bring with us through our next jobs with customers. 

Does Your Business Have Dirty Floors?

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Cleaning

Most people don’t really realize the floors unless it is their own house that has dirty floors. Things such as dirt, debris and even dust that your shoes can track in affect the floors. Another thing to take into account is things that don’t properly get thrown away properly usually end up on the floor as well. You are probably thinking this sounds like a very tiny issue, but having a dirty floor can hurt your business.

Commercial floor cleaning service such as SERVPRO St. Louis Central can help avoid you from getting dirty floors. SERVPRO does more than just getting rid of the dirt; they also include sanitizing the floors to help keep all the germs away. You don’t want your employees to be having multiple sick days, so it is important to put the health of your employees first!

Cleaning floors often requires more than just vacuuming, sweeping or getting the mop out everyone once in awhile. SERVPRO has all the equipment, experience and the products your company needs.

Holiday Safety

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

Even during the holidays SERVPRO will be there!

It is the holidays, so everyone wants to add fun warmth and sparkle to the wonderful season. It is very important to remember that some of our favorite holiday decorations carry a big risk of electrical or a fire if these aren’t used carefully.

Chestnuts are roasting on an open fire, but let’s sure hope your Christmas tree isn’t burning. Every year there has been estimated that 200 homes that have had Christmas tree fires. Most of these fires are caused by electrical malfunctions as well as heating equipment.

Safety Tips

• Always keep candles, heaters and fireplaces away from your tree.
• Did you know metal stands cause trees to dry out and become flammable? Always remember to check the water level daily or nightly.
• Inspect lights before plugging them in or putting them up.
• Never overload a circuit.
• Before leaving your house or going to bed make sure to turn off all of the lights.

Always remember that SERVPRO St. Louis Central is open 24/7/365! So if you are in a burning situation during the holidays, SERVPRO will be there to help!

Ceiling Water Damage

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Many homes are built with wood; insulation and drywall readily absorb water. All of these materials allow water to leak through in a quick time and to move to other parts of the house. So what is that water stain on your ceiling from? These building materials may absorb too much water and may become discolored or weakened which can cause a huge structural damage. So, don’t ignore the stain, there may be a leak above your ceiling and could cause it to collapse.

Common Causes of Water Stains

• Gutters
• Roof Damage
• Pipe Damage
• Water Lines
• Plumbing Fixtures
• Frozen Pipes

Call SERVPRO St. Louis Central a professional restoration company!

Next time you find a stain on your ceiling, you have to remember it is always revealing that it is water damage. In most cases catching the stain early gives you the best chance to avoid some serious damage that could be done to your house. Our professionals will locate the source of the water and repair the damage done to the building as well as taking care of anything else needed in your home! The worst thing you can do is not call to get it fixed!

Beware of Frozen Pipes

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Winter is on its way, especially here in the Midwest we never know what to expect when it comes to stepping outside. Winter in the Midwest can be sunny, rainy and breezy, but in most cases is freezing cold weather with a lot of snow. During this time of the year frozen pipes become the biggest repair.

It is never a good sign to have a frozen pipe, because they block water flow to outlets. The bigger problem is that when the water freezes in these pipes, it expands which means a lot of pressure is applied and the interior part of the pipe. In most situations with all the pressure being applied to the pipe, it can cause it to burst directing freezing water and ice into other building structures like drywall.

Always be cautious about your outside appliances and make sure the water is shut off outside and double check any pipes that are easy accessible.

Stay warm this winter season, you never know when you’ll need SERVPRO St. Louis Central to come help you fix your pipes throughout this wintery season.

Call Us Today – (314) 260-7177

Common Fire Hazards at Home

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that more than 360,000 home structure fires each year?

The cold weather often means a higher risk of house fires, this is because people are spending more time at home and indoors from the wintry weather!

Common Fire Hazards at Home

• Candles
• Cigarettes
• Electrical & Lighting
• Dryers & Washing Machines

These fire hazards can be preventable with some forethought and care! The most preventable are are unattended candles and cooking! Be aware of when you light candles or leave the stove on before you leave your home or go to bed. 

The most recent fire damage SERVPRO did was "quick and a job well done" stated from a happy customer. She explained a fire had started in the middle of the night and SERVPRO was there that morning removing the damage and making everything smell and look nice!

If you have fire damage call SERVPRO St. Louis Central!

What to Save When Your Building Gets Flooded with Water

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

Nothing is more stressful than facing flood damage or any kind of water damage. Well.. there is, electronics and computers holding all of your important information! Most businesses have a certain plan that prepares them for a situation like this, but does your business have a plan if a situation like this happened?

Depending on the type of the water damage you may be sitting in such as a broken sink, a pipe that may have burst or even a toilet that has flooded, your business may become a huge hazard! So the very first thing you should do is turn off the main power supply to prevent any electronics from being damaged.

-3 Things To Save-

• Computers have servers that hold all of the data.
• Shelf Documents are important for a backup, because paper documents are the best way to build everything back up.
• Printers usually store a copy of every print that you have made since you have bought it. This is another way to help get data back.

 Lets cross our fingers that there isn't much water damage, but if there is the next step is to call a service team of professionals such as SERVPRO STL Central! They have all the right tools to help you in a sticky situation.

Call Today - 314-260-7177

Fast Response to Flooded Basements in St. Louis

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is ready to respond to the flooded basement in your home or office building.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your St. Louis basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 314-260-7177

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of St. Louis Central and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 314-260-7177

What To Do When You Suspect Mold In Your Home or Office

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of St. Louis Central for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 314-260-7177

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central's Extreme Team Wolfe

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

Extreme Team Wolfe - Your Recovery Experts 

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is known for it's unique distinction of being the only certified Disaster Recovery Team in the St. Louis area.  But, that's not all.  

The team at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is often referred to as Extreme Team Wolfe, aptly named after the business owners, David and Angie Wolfe.

We Treat Our Customers As Family!  

Our Extreme Team Wolfe goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that we help you through the difficulty of dealing with your flooded basement, fire-damaged property or large loss disaster.  

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need a trusted expert to guide you through this crisis.

The Extreme Team Wolfe at SERVPRO of St. Louis Central has the experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in taking care of clients like they are our family — in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

Your Large Loss Restoration Specialists

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

Our team is ready to respond 24/7 to your large loss disaster project!

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is available 24 hours a day for immediate help with your large loss disaster.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 314-260-7177

A large loss disaster can happen to both residential and commercial properties.  Damage from water, smoke and fire to a property can add up fast.  Large Loss can be a result of a flood, water, soot and smoke damage from a fire, a busted sewer pipe, or even storm damage from a natural disaster.  

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is the only certified Disaster Recovery Team in the St. Louis area.  Our  Extreme Team Wolf crew has the expertise and experience with large loss projects to restore your home or commercial property back to its original condition.  

Commercial Property Managers Trust SERVPRO of St. Louis Central

2/27/2018 (Permalink)

Property managers know SERVPRO of St. Louis Central is mobilized and ready to help 24/7.

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for Fire or Water damage to strike your St. Louis commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.

Commercial Property Managers know when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

Industrial Facilities, Hotel and Restaurants, Entertainment Venues, Government buildings and Commercial properties benefit from the quality work of SERVPRO of St. Louis Central.  We work together to ensure the value of the property is restored back to its to pre-disaster condition.

Learn more about our commercial services: Commercial Property Restoration

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Do You See Signs of Mold In Your Home or Business?

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Louis Central can assess your situation and help to remediate your mold problem!

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (314) 260-7177

Commercial and Residential Smoke and Soot Cleanup in St. Louis area

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of St. Louis Central will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (314) 260 - 7177