Commercial Water Damage Remediation in Your Business

7/31/2022 (Permalink)

Some of the Regular Water Damages SERVPRO Sees in Hotels

Water damage can happen anywhere in a hotel, but some areas and types of damage happen far more often than others. When problems go beyond simple cleanup and sanitation matters, your cleaning personnel or company may be ill-equipped to handle the consequences of significant water damage. Professionals in the restoration industry are specialized in fast and complete hotel services, ensuring rooms stay clean, undamaged, and pleasant-smelling after the incident. If these common problems happen in your building, call a highly-esteemed restoration company or use our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) system to get a crew of technicians to your location.

Overflowing Sinks and Bathtubs

One of the reasons SERVPRO might be called into hotels is when a guest causes a sink or bathtub to overflow. Guests remain in their rooms for various lengths of stay, so it may not be uncommon to only find out about the matter days later or when water starts to leak elsewhere and cause further damages. SERVPRO inspectors create a detailed assessment of the situation to understand what specific problems might come from these scenarios and estimate our work times and costs.

Water Line Leaks and Breaks

With so many water lines running throughout the building, it may not be uncommon for them to leak or burst, especially when they are ancient. Be sure to call us as soon as you suspect that a water line may have been ruptured, as the speed of our response may be critical to prevent as much damage as possible. To avoid most water line problems in your hotel, make sure that pipes receive semi-regular maintenance and checkups.

Left-Open Windows

Any time a guest can open a window, the potential for damage rises. Currently, there are laws about which levels can have fully-open windows in certain facilities, but regardless, if the window opens even a tiny bit, moisture can enter the facility. If guests can open a window in your hotel rooms, they may forget to close it before a storm rolls through the area. Water entering through the open window can cause significant damage to the carpet and upholstery.

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg can handle both small, isolated incidents and large-scale disasters throughout an entire building. For the best outcomes, call quickly after an incident at (727) 521-2562.

What Is The IIRC? What Does It Mean For Me?

7/31/2022 (Permalink)

What Is An IICRC Certification? Why Does It Matter?

The IICRC is the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification, a non-profit organization for the Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Industries. 

When considering who to call for water damage, do you go with the company your insurance company recommends? How about your neighbor’s recommendation? In the internet age of information-overload and bias, how can you know what’s right? Who really does the best job? Who does the most work for the money? Who handles a water loss job from start to finish? SERVPRO is proud to be your one-stop-shop for disaster relief after a fire, flood, or storm—but don’t take our word for it—let us show you.

Your local SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg is proudly an IICRC accredited firm.

What is an IICRC Certification?

IICRC Certified Firms have earned the right to display the IICRC logo as a symbol of quality. In order to achieve IICRC-certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise.

All IICRC Certified Firms must:  

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.  
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. 
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.  

When it comes to cleaning, restoration and inspection, the IICRC writes the books. As an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Standards Developing Organization (SDO), the IICRC has paved the way in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, upholstery and fabric cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation.  

Each IICRC standard takes years to develop and the coordination of several experts in the field, including:

1. allied trades persons
2. manufacturers
3. international, national and regional trade associations
4. individual or franchise professionals
5. cleaning, inspection and restoration industry organizations
6. insurance industry
7. training schools
8. contractors and public health professionals

These standards are reviewed and updated at least every five years. Many of these fields, such as the water damage restoration field, change rapidly and those who are certified keep up with the advancement of the science and generally accepted practices of the industry.

We don’t take this stamp of approval lightly—we uphold it. If your home or business suffered water, storm, or fire damage, call us for 24 hours emergency service or for a free estimate.

Immediate Service: Day or Night!

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Immediate Service: Day or Night!

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg provides 24-hour emergency service and dedicates being faster to any-sized disaster! We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Residential Services

Whether your home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's no convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, we have the training and expertise to respond with trained technicians to get your property back to business.

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

SERVPRO Helps Prevent Fire in Your Home with Dryer Vent Cleaning

7/17/2022 (Permalink)

House fires affect millions of people every year at the cost of over $500 Million. Smoke detectors have proved their value, saving lives and homes from total loss. Most house fires start in the kitchen, but a significant number still occur in a place most forget about once the item is installed, the dryer vent. 

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, 2,900 dryer fires are reported each year. These fires lead to a staggering national average of 35 million dollars in property damage, 100 injuries, and five fatalities annually. 

PSA: Vent cleaning service may reduce your clothes dryer's workload while lowering energy usage!

A dryer inside the house or apartment uses a metal exhaust pipe (galvanized iron or steel usually) to vent hot air outside the home. The zinc-coated material is designed to handle the highest dryer settings and more but not open flames from burning built-up lint. Since this is an exhaust pipe and smoke seeks the most comfortable access, a vent fire goes undetected by the smoke detectors much longer than a fire anywhere else in the house. 

If your dryer is in the garage or under a carport, the chance for a significant fire is reduced. The flexible vent tube may not run under the house, but it is still at risk. The build-up of lint can still ignite, destroying your dryer and the washer next to it. As the flexible plastic pipe melts, the burning material quickly ignites drywall and other building materials. 

Our technicians can eliminate this threat with an inspection. We can attach an air mover that introduces high-velocity airflow into your vent for just a few minutes. If the build-up has caked against the sides of the pipe, we'll then use a brush with a telescoping handle to scrape the sides and then blore-attach the air mover to the lint outside your home. We detach it from the dryer for a flexible conduit and clean it outside using either an air mover or garden hose to wash it out. 

The cost for vent cleaning is minor compared to the possible cost(s) to restore your home fire-damaged home. Aren’t convinced? There are still some things you, as a property owner, can do to keep your home as safe as possible.

What You Can Do

Clean the lint filter.

A clogged lint filter is the leading contributing factor in residential dryer fires. The U.S. Fire Administration reports that failing to clean out the lint trap causes 34 percent of reported dryer fires every year.

Each time you unload the dryer, clean out the lint trap. Before putting the next load of clothes in, double-check that the lint trap is completely clean to lower your risk of fire. A clean lint filter allows the dryer to run more efficiently, too, thus drying your clothes faster while also preventing your machine from overheating.

Inspect the ducts regularly.

Blocked ducts frequently cause dryer fires. To ensure your dryer is running correctly, check your ducts about once a month to ensure there are no blockages. Some telltale signs that your ducts are clogged include the following indicators:

• Your laundry is taking longer to dry
• Exhaust air is failing to exit the vent
• You suspect that your machine is overheating

Sometimes, a blockage occurs because the venting system itself is damaged. Other times, blockages may be occurring because of an accumulation of lint, animals building nests in the vents, or snow building up over the outside vents.

If you notice any blockages, clean them out before using your dryer again. To clean your ducts, disconnect them, remove the blockages and reconnect them. If you notice any damage to the venting system, call in a professional to repair the issue.

Replace outdated ducts.

Older ducts made of plastic or foil are prone to sagging. These accordion-style ducts can easily trap lint in hard-to-reach spaces, increasing your risk of fire. To keep your home safe, replace your older models with new ducts designed with heavy-duty metal.

DON'T overload the dryer.

Stuffing too many wet clothes or bedding into a dryer can cause an excess of lint to accumulate. Since lint build up reduces a dryer's ability to ventilate, the machine may quickly overheat and cause a fire to break out. Read your owner's manual to determine your machine's maximum hold to ensure you aren't overstuffing it.

DON'T leave the dryer running unattended.

Never go to sleep or leave the house while your dryer is running. If a fire breaks out, your ability to extinguish it or call emergency services right away can make all the difference between damage to your laundry room and complete loss of your home.

DON'T dry clothes without the lint filter.

A dryer without its lint trap is an accident waiting to happen. The filter protects the dryer's inner workings from collecting lint. Without this defensive shield, a buildup of lint in the ducts can easily lead to a dryer vent fire.

To lower your risk, always use your dryer with the lint trap in place. If your existing lint trap is worn or develops any holes, replace it immediately at your nearest home supplies store.

When it comes to disasters, one could argue that none are worse than a residential fire. Not only do the flames cause inherent danger as they destroy your family's home and or business, but there is also the after effect concerning the removal of debris, soot, the smell of smoke, compromised structure, and additional damages that have been inflicted on your property. For most homeowners, fire is an incredible event. However, they DO happen and for a variety of reasons.

Top 10 Other Causes of Fires

1. Home heat fires: Your furnace needs regular inspection(s) and ensures combustibles are not near any portable heaters.
   
   
2. Cooking fires: Unattended kitchens, splattering grease, and combustibles near the source of heat are very common fire starters.
   
   
3. Smoking: Always ensure that you properly and completely extinguish the cigarette if you smoke in your home.
   
   
4. Electrical fires: Look out for frayed cords, overloaded plug outlets, and the overuse of extension cords.
   
   
5. Children: Keep lighters and matches away from children to stifle any curiosity they could have about what happens when various items catch fire.
   
   
6. Candles: Candles may smell nice, but if left unattended, they could cause a significant issue.
   
   
7. Flammable items: Do not keep adhesives, paint, or cleaning agents close to sources of heat.
   
   
8. Faulty wiring: A significant safety hazard is inadequate wiring (MOSTLY prevalent in older apartments and homes).
   
   
9. Grills: Never cook on the grill under an awning or a covered porch. Give yourself ample space away from your home and automobiles.
   
   
10. Holiday décor: Be mindful of how close your Christmas tree is to your fireplace and always safely hang another décor.

Despite our best efforts as homeowners, accidents still happen. If your home has been damaged by fire and smoke, call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg. Our team of highly trained technicians can help get your life back to normal as quickly as possible. With the proper training, innovative equipment, and helpful guidance, our expert technicians will be with you every step of the way to get you back on your feet.

We will arrive at your home quickly to mitigate the damages, secure your property and start the emergency cleaning process to items that are of priority. While we are on the site, your property will be inspected, assessments of damage(s) will be documented, and preliminary estimates made to give you a comprehensive restoration plan of action. 

Approximate The Distance To Lightning Strike: Know How To Prepare for Storms

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Know How To Prepare for Storms

Lightning causes around 43 deaths in the U.S. annually (based on statistics from 1989-2018). Thankfully, this number is only 10% of the average lightning strikes, the other 90% are left alive, but with various degrees of disability.

Nationally, lightning ranks second only to flash floods in weather-related deaths. Lightning is the most frequent important weather threat to personal safety during the thunderstorm season. Since the threat of lightning is so common, it is typical that many have a lackadaisical approach to protecting themselves. The main reason is that people stay outside too long as thunderstorms approach or form nearby. 

For example, during the early part of the thunderstorm season, "dry" thunderstorms are quite common. With these types of thunderstorms, little or no precipitation reaches the ground and, as a result, people are less likely to seek shelter.  See lightning facts below for statistics on lightning events. 

Did you know?

• The air near a lightning strike is heated to 50,000 ° F, that is hotter than the surface of the sun!
• The average flash could light a 100-watt light bulb for more than 3 months.
• Lightning occurs with all thunderstorms.

While most lightning casualties occur at the beginning of an approaching storm, a significant number of lightning deaths occur after the thunderstorm has passed.  If thunder is heard, then the storm is close enough for a lightning strike.  DO NOT wait for the rain to start before seeking shelter, and do not leave shelter just because the rain has ended. 

A Cool Lightning Hack

You can approximate the distance of lightning!

Did you know you can approximate the distance a storm is from you but counting the time between the flash of lightning and the thunder sound that coincides with the lightning flash? That means you can, at your own home, with minimal supplies, figure out how far a lightning strike is from you!

What You’ll Need:

1. You Ears
2. Your Eyes
3. A watch with a second counter or a phone

From the time you see lightning, it will take the sound of thunder 5 seconds to travel 1 mile. To approximate the miles a strike is from you, count the seconds between the flash and thunder, divide by 5!

For example, if you see a flash of lightning, start a stop watch and hear a large crash of thunder 5 seconds after the flash, your lightning is only 1 mile away! Anything less than 5 seconds is definitely close, so seek cover!

It's not raining, is there still danger from being struck by lightning?

YES!  Lightning often strikes outside of the heavy rain area and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall.

Will the rubber soles of my shoes or tires on my car protect me from being struck?

NO! However, the steel frame of a hard-topped car provides a sort of Faraday Cage or Faraday shield. This increases protection if you are not touching metal. Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside the car than outside. When skies darken, or thunderstorms are forecast, look and listen for increasing wind, flashes of lightning, sound of thunder, and static on your AM radio.  While no place is safe from lightning, some places are much safer than others. 

Where you can go…

• Get inside a house or large shelter
• Remain clear of tall, isolated trees and telephone poles
• If possible, move to a sturdy building or hard top automobile
• If you are caught outside, away from shelter, you need to get to a place of safety as quickly as possible. If safe shelter is not possible, lie down on low lying ground or in a ditch.
• If boating or swimming, get out of boats and away from the water, get to land and find shelter immediately

What you can do...

• Watch for signs of an approaching thunderstorm
• Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent. This is your best way to avoid being caught in a dangerous situation
• REMEMBER, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to a storm to be struck by lightning

If your home or property has been damaged by severe winds, water, or storms—call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg for a free damage restoration estimate.

Know What Steps to Take During A House Fire

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Know What Steps to Take During A House Fire

United States fire departments respond to roughly 360,000 house fires per year, resulting in injuries and destruction to property. Using steps from our previous fire damage information will help prepare and prevent you and your family from a house fire. The American Red Cross recommends teaching your family two ways to escape, along with determining a safe meeting point outside the home. Once set in place, review the routes as well as a backup plan at least once a year.

If a fire does occur, the following guidelines could be helpful to remember and review:

• Use a fire extinguisher. If the fire is small and you know how to use a fire extinguisher, put your skills to use. DO NOT pour water on a grease fire! Since water and oil don’t mix, when water is poured on a grease fire it sinks to the bottom of the pan and evaporates instantly, increasing the intensity of the heat and raising the flame.

• Leave home. If you don’t know how to use a fire extinguisher or have no way of getting to it safely, leave your home immediately. There is always less time than you think to get out of a burning structure. Smoke is no joke.

• Protect your hands and lungs. If a closed-door or its doorknob feels warm, leave it closed. And, if smoke fills the home, get low to the ground, and stay low until you are safely out of the building. Inhaling the smoke can cause people to become disoriented and render a person unconscious. Placing a shirt or rag over your nose and mouth will help to filter out combustion particles while you escape.

• Stay out. Once you escape your home, do not attempt to re-enter. Going back inside only puts yourself and others in danger.

• Call for help. When outside, immediately call 911. The fire department has the necessary gear and training to enter your home and rescue people or pets that may be stuck inside within minutes.

Have smoke or fire damage? Call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg today!

How To: Inspect Home for Damage After a Fire

7/10/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to loss incidents, fire in your home can prove challenging to overcome. Even without crippling structural damage, the effects of a recent fire can often be too far-reaching for the average homeowner to face independently. Conventional cleaning efforts and general deodorization, for example, pale in comparison to the effectiveness of professional restoration services.

Our trained SERVPRO team can handle fire damage restoration. From soot cleanup to deodorization, we can get your house to its original condition effectively.

Our estimator and project manager work to identify the full scope of the damage from when we arrive at your home. We survey every area, whether directly connected to the fire in your home or not. Our thorough inspection ensures that the damages get cataloged and that our professionals have the right equipment and strategies to contend with what they face.

The insurance company that covers your home will receive the assessment of your damages. Most claims won't get pushed through without a detailed itinerary of the work that needs doing, a general estimated cost for materials and labor to restore the home.

Whether the damage in your home was widespread or not, this process remains the same. Our professionals take great care in assessing the scope of the damage that your home faces in the restoration process. You can trust our SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg fire restoration specialists to work quickly to bring your home back to how it should be. Call at (727) 341-1001.

5 Kitchen Hazards To Avoid

7/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg can handle your fire damage restoration needs. Give us a call today.

Five Ways to Avoid Kitchen Hazards

Even seasoned chefs sometimes make costly mistakes. Here are five helpful ways to avoid kitchen hazards, such as a drain clog or grease fire.

1. Keep Your Vents Clean

It's essential to keep the vent screens above your stove clean. Otherwise, grease can build up on the screen and inhibit ventilation, becoming a contributing factor in a kitchen fire. The grease buildup could even make a fire worse if the flames reach that high.

2. Don't Leave Pans Unattended

Most cooks know never to lean a pan unattended on the stove. The pan could be knocked over, the pan can burn through, grease can burn and splatter, or the food can be allowed to cook too long and burn, causing a fire. Each of these things are major fire hazards.

3. Don't Put Grease Down the Drain

When you're done cooking, it may be tempting to pour the hot grease down the drain, but built-up grease in the drain can lead to a drain clog and sink overflow when the grease cools to a solid form. Instead, pour the grease into a container, allow it to cool, and then place it in the trash. One of our favorite hacks is to take a heat resistant bowl, fold and place an absorbent cloth like a paper towel at the base of the bowl. Pour the warm grease into the bowl and let it cool. When it is cool, it will lift off in one easy piece. Wipe out the remaining grease—if there is any—and place that into the trash as well.

4. Wipe Out Greasy Pans Before Washing

Wipe off any remaining grease and food particles before washing your pans. This can help prevent buildup that may lead to a sink clog.

5. Call a Professional to Service Appliances

If you're having problems with your stove or drain, it may be time to call a professional. They will know how to fix the problem without causing a potential electrical fire. These can come from attempting to fix a broken stove or clogged dish disposal without the correct tools. If fire or flooding does occur, then a fire and water damage restoration service may help.

Conclusion

Follow these tips to help prevent problems like a drain clog or grease fire. Never leave your stove unattended when it's on, don't put grease down the drain, and call a professional if your kitchen appliances need maintenance. If a fire or flooding does happen in your kitchen, contact us; we may be able to help.

Restoration Vs. Replacement: How To Know What To Do

7/10/2022 (Permalink)

When To Replace? When to Repair?

After fire damage occurs in your Florida home, the first 48 hours can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg can help prevent fire damage creating long-term problems. Our trained professionals provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke, and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. Our services help restore your property, belongings, and memories when possible.

A backdraft of emotions often sweeps over the homeowners after fire ravages a home. Fear, uncertainty, stress, and doubt about the property's future can overwhelm the homeowner long after the flames and smoke has cleared.

After the first wave of heroes has rescued the property, let SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg help you restore it. Before you risk further damage, call us at (727)-341-1001.

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg Lesser-Known Cleaning Categories

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg has the means to help your commercial property—whether a main service or a lesser-known cleanup.

So...What Does SERVPRO Do?

With so many restoration companies out there, it’s hard to know which company is the right fit. And in the midst of a crisis, calling for emergency service, that decision can seem impossible and overwhelming. We are a restoration company defined by quality. While we have built a reputation for our top tier fire and water restoration services, (seriously, see our 5-star reviews), we also service many other cleanup categories. 

SERVPRO’s Lesser-Known Cleanup Categories

On top of water damage cleanup, fire restoration, mold remediation, commercial and residential cleaning, contents cleaning—which includes drapes, blinds, walls, floors ceilings, upholstery and carpets—SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg also does:

• General cleaning and graffiti removal
• Air ducts and HVAC cleaning, not repair
• Brick, stone, and concrete cleaning
• Odor removal and deodorization
• Debris removal
• Vandalism and graffiti removal
• Trauma and Crime Scene cleanup
• Biohazard cleaning
• Sewage cleanup

Wow, what a list, right? That’s not all we do. We also professionally sanitize your home or business with our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned process. We have a proprietary blend of disinfectants to deal with biological contaminants.

Specialized Training — Certified: SERVPRO Clean

The Center for Disease Control Prevention (CDC)  set forth protocols, and we are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business to high standards. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants. We go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs daily.

The CDC encourages cleaning high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC's guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment
• Specialized Products

The CDC recommends the usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line, available on Amazon, carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. Do you need proactive cleaning of your commercial property or any of our lesser-known cleaning services? Call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg today at 727-521-2562.

Does Your Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold Damage?

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Perils covered by homeowners insurance policies vary. SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg cleans microbial contamination.

The perils covered by homeowners insurance policies vary depending on the insurer.

Mold damage can be costly and happen anywhere, so several insurance companies have restricted or eliminated coverage for this risk under standard policies. If you are concerned about fungus growth at a residence, try to identify the problem's source first, then check your policy for mold coverage.

The Cause of Mold Damage Matters

Restoration experts commonly refer to mold as secondary damage, as fungal growth typically results from direct water damage.

Insurers are more likely to cover mold damage that results from one of the following covered incidents:

• Appliance leaks
• Broken or burst pipes
• Pipe leaks

Even if a policy does not cover the cost of fixing the problem, the resulting damage may be covered. Check your policy and contact an insurance agent or adjuster.

3 Ways Insurers Limit Mold Coverage

Many homeowners insurance providers have removed or limited the amount of coverage for fungus growth because it is a higher risk peril. Since mold can grow practically anywhere, anytime in the right conditions—it’s not exclusive to one geographical location. Because of this an insurer may restrict coverage in these ways:

• Exclude mold damage completely
• Only cover microbial testing or cleanup
• Refuse coverage on properties with a history of mold

Read your policy carefully to determine whether there are any conditions under which mold is covered. If mold is not covered, you may want to add an endorsement.

What Is an Endorsement?

It may be possible for policy holders to pay for limited mold coverage. Ask your insurer whether any endorsements are available. This option may be costly, especially if your residence has a history of mold.Homeowners should determine the limitations of their coverage and decide whether to obtain additional mold insurance.

Paying for remediation out of pocket can be very expensive. The best way to prevent mold growth is to mitigate water damage and potential damage. Don’t be caught without the right mold insurance.

Storm Damage vs Flood Damage: What’s the Difference?

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Storm Damage vs. Flood Damage and Dealing with Insurance

Property owners in Florida may have a hard time differentiating storm damage from flood damage—which is important when considering insurance coverage.

Commercial properties can sustain water damage from both flood and storms, but there are a few significant differences to keep in mind that may help you manage these risks.

The most general distinction is that stormwater comes from above, whereas flood water overspills natural bodies or watercourses and covers at least two acres of ordinarily dry land.

Storm damage to a commercial property may originate from a variety of causes such as:

• High winds
• Heavy rain
• Hurricanes
• Snow
• Tornadoes

Most business insurance plans protect from storm damage. Property owners need additional coverage to offset the expenses of flood damage. If your property is located on a flood plain, you should make sure you carry the policies necessary to protect your property investment.

Flooding occurs when water overflows a body of water or watercourse such as:

• Creeks
• Dams
• Lakes
• Storm-water channels

In order for water to be considered a flood, it must cover two acres and affect at least two properties.

If a commercial property is located in a high-risk zone, and the owner has a mortgage from an insured and federally-regulated lender, they must maintain flood insurance. Risks tied to flooding and storms should be known, minimized, and dealt with as soon as possible. Regardless of a moisture source, the risk of mold and other secondary damage within a building can be looming over the aftereffects of large, disastrous water events.

Restoring Damage From Storms and Floods

Restoration specialists can help property owners determine the precise causes of damage and the best solutions. If a property in Florida experiences flood damage or sustains damage during a storm, contact SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg at (727) 521-2562 as soon as possible.

Reduce Business Disruption After a Commercial Disaster

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg at (727) 521-2562 to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today.

After a major disaster, businesses suffer a variety of interruptions like:

• financial and emotional stress
• production downtime
• sullied reputation
• a plethora of other strains.

In the time period following a trauma like a fire, flood, pipe break, or other form of disaster, making the right decisions can be taxing and confusing. At SERVPRO, we regularly see local companies go through this and want business owners to know we are here to help after a commercial disaster. Part of that help comes through an emergency readiness checklist and disaster plan.

How To Minimize Risks and Loss of Revenue?

Creating a disaster readiness plan for your business can save you thousands on your bottom line, and can save your business, entirely. And the planning process does not have to be overwhelming when placed on top of all other responsibilities. SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg is here to help take the weight off your shoulders by developing an Emergency Ready Profile for your company. Knowing you are, "Ready for whatever happens," will give you, your clients, and employees confidence if or when your business is affected by a disaster.

We Generate A Plan For You

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate action plan. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize the severity of water and fire damage on your business.

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile Advantages Provide You With:

• 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 will save a lot of time if ever needed.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  
  This helps minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
• Professionals at SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg, established as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider!
  
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by for an emergency response.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  
  This saves time so we can start cleaning up the damage, so you can reopen your business as soon as possible.
• Specific Facility Details of your business such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
  
  You will have a quick reference of what to do, how to do it, and who to call in case of an emergency so that you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Contact SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg at (727) 521-2562 to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today.

We are here to be your total solutions provider during an emergency commercial disaster so you can do what’s important: taking care of your clients, employees, and other business needs. 

Water Damage 101: What Are the Categories of Water Cleanup?

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Unexpected water in your home—where it shouldn’t be—isn’t something that should be overlooked. Whether the water damage appears to be minimal or overbearing, understanding the type of water and accompanying damage is important to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Types of Water

Any kind of flooding needs to be immediately addressed to ensure further damage doesn’t occur. Before grabbing the mop and bucket or wet vacuum, it is vital to understand the type of water that is being dealt with because there are three categories of water. These three categories vary by what type of contaminants makes up the water. The categories of water damage that restoration companies like SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg use are:

Clean Water: As its name suggests, this type poses little threat. This damage occurs when a water supply line leaks, a sink or bathtub without contaminants overflows, melting snow, or rainwater infiltrates the home.

Gray Water: Once water mixes with chemicals or minimal biological contaminants, it moves to this category. Sources may include a leaking dishwasher, urine-only toilet overflow, or water condensation.

Black Water: This is unsanitary water full of bacteria and microorganisms which bring potential harm to humans and animals. If there was a recent flood, it could mean those rising water included sewage and other debris. Flood water from storms is usually in this category. 

Types of Damage

When assessing water damage to determine repairs, understanding the types is important.

Class 1: The least harmful kind, it typically means that a minimal amount was absorbed in the affected areas. It is usually easy to clean.

Class 2: Known for quick evaporation rates, it can quickly absorb into carpeting and other porous materials. This damage typically requires more extensive repairs.

Class 3: If a sprinkler or pipe bursts, it can rapidly drench floors, walls, furniture, and other belongings. The rapid rate of evaporation requires quick action and water remediation measures to ensure the damage doesn’t spread or promote microbial growth.

Class 4: Excessive flooding means massive saturation of integral home components. Consulting a water damage and remediation expert is the best bet containing the situation and ensuring further damage doesn’t happen.

I Have Extensive Water Damage—What Should I Do?

While there are many levels of water damage, quick action in all situations is key to getting your home back to normal. If you are unsure which cleaning method to take after any type of flooding, call us. We are available 24 hours. Our number is (727) 521-2562. We'll assess the level of contamination quickly to advise you on the safest course of action.

By hiring a cleaning contractor like SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South /West St. Petersburg, you:

• Reduce your likelihood of exposure to pathogens.
• Mitigate long-term problems like microbial growth.
• No longer have to worry about either cleanup or reconstruction—we do both!
• Salvage flooring, furniture and important personal belongings.
• Don’t have to hassle with insurance—we do that for you!

Humidity: Primary and Secondary Damages Explained by Restoration Experts

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg restoration experts to mitigate primary and secondary damage due to storm, flooding + water.

Different Types of Water Damage

Whenever excessive moisture gets inside a building, the problems it causes can be broken down into two categories: primary and secondary damage.

Primary Damage

When water leaks from a pipe or an appliance, it comes in contact with contents and building materials. Anything that happens due to direct contact with liquid water, such as the carpet's de-lamination, is considered primary damage. 

Secondary Damage

Once water gets inside a structure, it naturally raises humidity levels indoors when moisture from wet materials evaporates into the air. Elevated humidity levels can also cause building materials issues since water transfers from the air into dry materials to reach equilibrium. When water vapor causes structural problems, it is called secondary damage.

Extraction procedures help reduce primary issues, and structural drying helps mitigate both primary and secondary water damage. When our SERVPRO technicians deal with any water damage situation, we monitor both relative and specific humidity.

What Controls Humidity?

Controlling humidity levels in a structure helps speed up structural drying times. Wet materials dry out faster if the humidity inside a building is kept low using air movers and dehumidifiers. Monitoring and strategic placement of these devices optimize drying times. When we keep humidity levels low, we also reduce water vapor in the air, causing fewer secondary issues. 

Relative Humidity

Relative Humidity (RH) is a measure of how much water is in the air at any given temperature. RH is expressed as a percentage, so if the relative humidity is 100%, then the air is holding as much moisture as it can at that temperature. At this point, if not sooner, condensation can occur inside the building. "Raining" inside your home can only exacerbate the already water damaging effects. Air can hold more water at higher temperatures, so increasing the house's temperature will lower the relative humidity. That is one of the features of our HEPA filters. Not only does the filter suck the moisture from the air, but it also heats the air to dry the space quicker.

Specific Humidity 

The temperature has such a significant effect on relative humidity, but it's not always a good gauge of how much water exists in the air. Specific humidity is the actual amount of moisture in the air. When our restoration professionals measure specific humidity, they count the actual grains of moisture in each pound of air. To find specific humidity, we measure relative humidity levels and the room's temperature. We then put these numbers in a psychrometric chart that gives us the grains per pound (GPP) number. 

If you ever need help with issues related to water or humidity, such as flood damage, storm damage, or microbial growth, call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg at (727) 521-2562, available 24 hours a day.

4 Easy Ways to Prevent Water Damage

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

Check out these suggestions fromSERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburgfor preventing all kinds of water damage while your kids are home for the summer.

1. Be Careful Where You Plant.

Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.

2. Clean Out Your Roof Gutters.

On a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some severe water damage! So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. If your gutters are too high or you do not have the correct tools, be safe and get a professional to check and clean them.

3. Use a Drain Snake Instead of Unclogging Chemicals.

Most folks don’t realize these chemicals are eating away at their pipes. If you rely on them a lot, you could be setting yourself up for leaks. That’s why owning a drain snake is an excellent solution to clear away clogs. They’re pretty inexpensive; you can get these thin, plastic sticks with thorn-like teeth at your local hardware store. Depending on the drain snake, they can cut through most any clog you’ll have without damaging pipes.

4. Never Pour Grease Down Your Sink.

It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. Grease can still cling to your pipes and could even cause some severe damage and blockage. The safest thing to do is pour your grease in an empty can and either let it sit or put it in the refrigerator. Once it hardens, you can toss it in the trash and get rid of it. Done and done.

We know that water and flooding emergencies can happen any time, so we’re ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – including holidays.CallSERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg at (727) 521-2562.

Storm Restoration Professionals Know How to Dry Your Property

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg is a Leader in the Storm Restoration Industry for a Reason

Harsh weather conditions like flooding, wind, and storms cause devastating damage to homes and businesses. Property damage due to storm damage and flood water overwhelms many with concerns for personal safety and properties' security.

When this form of damage occurs to your home or business, the first step is to find safety, then contact a trustworthy storm damage restoration company.

An immediate restoration response reduces the extent of damage done to a property. Since roof damage is likely to be accompanied by water damage—a gaping hole is a recipe for moisture and storm water to make itself at home—a quick emergency response reduces the risk for internal and structural water damage and microbial growth.

When contacted, storm restoration experts will analyze the level of damage and make a judgment regarding how to begin. Professionals' main priority is to secure property before cleanup, repair, and restoration. Once a property's debris is removed from the exterior and roof repair is completed, experts move to drying and the internal cleanup of furniture, carpets, clothes, and other items. 

The Drying Process of SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg

Oozing groundwater, especially in places prone to flooding, could cause damage, especially if no flood pump has been previously installed. SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg has a thorough drying process.

First, our team sets up industrial-strength drying equipment such as air movers and HEPA filtered dehumidifiers. Special care is taken to thoroughly dry the area around the original leak or cavity.

If water has seeped to the surrounding areas, special drying equipment is used. It can take 3-5 days for traditional drying. However, hard-to-dry materials, such as wood floors and crawlspaces, can make the process longer.

After the property is dry, the restoration of any damaged materials can start. Restoration is the most time-consuming part, but is very important and the bulk of returning the property to its preloss condition. We strive to make a property look, “Like it never even happened.”

We are available 24 hours for emergency response. Call us at (727) 521-2562.

Why You Should Clean Your HVAC System This Sniffling Season

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Warm weather is here, so it's time to open the windows and let in the fresh air. As you embark on cleaning your home this season, you may forget an important piece of machinery that needs cleaning and maintenance as much as the garage needs cleaning! Don't forget about your HVAC system.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), pollutant levels inside your home can be two to five times higher than outdoors pollutant levels, and the ventilation system is often the largest contributor to low indoor air quality! Many systems go a long time before being inspected and cleaned, so if your HVAC system is like most, your dirty vents might be circulating odors, mold, and irritating dust throughout your home, too.

The EPA reports contaminants or foreign objects such as rodents, insects, dust, dirt, debris, bacteria, mold, and pollen have the ability to enter and collect in your air ducts. So not only is your indoor air quality worsened, but these critters and allergens can cause long-term damages to your HVAC system.

So, Who Cleans Air Ducts?

Cleaning your HVAC system is no easy task without the right tools, but that’s where a professional in the industry like SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg can help. We offer heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC) inspections and cleaning. In most cases, air duct cleaning is not essential to a smoothly run home, but after a major air-quality-reducing event like a fire with smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning is essential to limit the circulation of contaminants throughout the house.

If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating the following:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and debris
• Other contaminants

How Does SERVPRO Clean HVAC Systems?

Unlike most duct cleaning services, we use a Portable Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and sweep clean years of dust and grime.

This system allows us to:

• Remediate Bacteria, Fungi, and Mold
• Reduce Potential for Mold Growth
• Restore Peak Energy Efficiency
• Eliminate Offensive Odors
• Provide Free Written Inspections and Estimates

Our Duct Cleaning Process

• First, we use patented equipment, such as the roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct's shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
• Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the environment clean.
• As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
• Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

If you have other cleaning needs, we provide various cleaning services. Call (727) 521-2562 today.

Benefits of Large Loss For Your Commercial Business

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Large Loss Restoration of Your Commercial Property

When a property is affected by a disaster, catastrophic loss occurs. Whether the large, commercial property sustains water, fire, or storm damage, there will be many different moving parts involved to restore the business to its preloss condition. Employing a restoration company that offers significant loss response can be useful for insurance agents and business owners alike. A professional like SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg will be able to make the process run smoothly since we work with the insurance directly and handle all parts of most large loss jobs in-house.

Our services include water extraction, board-up services, HEPA filtration, mold remediation, fire cleanup, contents cleaning, odor removal, biohazard cleanup, construction, and much more.

1. Experts Are Equipped With the Right Tools

When a major disaster strikes a large geographic area, it's common for restoration experts to be overwhelmed with requests and phone calls. Some local restoration companies may not be equipped to handle all types of disasters or at a large scale, and these companies may not have access to specialized tools.

A restoration company with a broad reach and the resources of 18 other locations, can bring in experts with the necessary tools to assist in the cleanup and restoration process of even the biggest and most complex jobs.

2. Experience to Handle Catastrophes

Whether a catastrophic loss occurs due to flooding, storm damage, or a fire, it's essential for business owners and insurance agents alike to know that the professionals restoring commercial properties are experienced. One person alone may not have the experience to respond to a major disaster. However, when numerous people assist in responding to a disaster, everyone's combined experience makes the loss response team equipped to manage many aspects of commercial property damage. 

3. Timely Reactions

When widespread damage occurs to an area, other local restoration companies may not assess quickly enough to be a real help. Unfortunately, a slow response can cause a property to acquire more issues, such as mold growth and structural damage. With our 24 hour emergency response, however, professionals can quickly assess a property, and take next steps. After a thorough assessment, experts can begin restoration. So, the faster the professional gets to the jobsite, the faster your commercial property can be restored to its preloss condition.

There is a reason SERVPRO has ranked number one in the industry for over 20 years. We stand with our work because we really are “here to help.”

SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Profile Helps Prepare Your Company for Emergencies

We want to help your business to be ready for the damaging effects of fire, water, and storm. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate action plan.

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 affects your business. 

The Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a tablet and phone application that allows you to take photographs of important safety and emergency features in your business. Each photograph will have a written explanation of how to turn off the different utility systems. One of our SERVPRO employees will walk you through your business’s safety features and help you establish a plan in preparation for an emergency. Remember Murphy’s law—If anything can go wrong, it will. So, we want to make sure you are not caught unawares. 

For additional information regarding SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, contact us at (727) 521-2562.

Does My Carpet Need to Be Replaced? Professional Water Extraction and Cleaning

5/22/2022 (Permalink)

a professional will know to rip out the carpet and replace it after water extraction

Professional Water Extraction and Cleaning

If a pipe breaks, a tub overflows, or dishwasher leaks water can spread quickly throughout your home. Moisture from one of these instances can soak into the carpet, damaging the porous fibers.

What does water do to a carpet?

If the water saturates the carpet, padding will disintegrate and glues will weaken, causing the backing to peel away from the fibers. The moisture also causes microbes to develop on the surface of the subfloor. Water will ruin the whole carpet if left too long, so how long is too long? How would a person know if a carpet is salvageable or not?

The answer depends on a few factors. A professional restoration company will examine the cause of water damage and determine if the water is Category 1, 2, or 3. These categories describe the levels of toxicity of the water. Flood water and sewage water are seen as unsafe and are categorized differently than tap water overflowing from a sink or bathtub.

A professional will also lift the different layers for cleaning and drying. The carpet padding will likely be thrown out, no matter how long it’s been sitting, because it is relatively inexpensive to replace. This saves a lot of time, effort, and money cleaning a potential breeding ground for microbial growth. 

In general, many carpets can be restored by technicians without needing replacement—even when water seeps deep into the fibers. If the water type and severity of damage poses a risk, though, a professional will know to rip out the carpet and replace it.

Water Extraction

After technicians inspect the danger and its source, lift layers, and remove pieces, they will extract water from the carpet fibers using specialized equipment. This equipment pulls the water up through a vacuum and sends it to a tank. Heavy-duty weighted extraction tools will be used for highly saturated carpets. Weighted extraction tools use the operator's weight to compress the carpet, allowing more moisture to be extracted.

Drying

After water extraction, a professional will set up drying equipment. Air movers—SERVPRO’s name for industrial, high-powered, blower fans—push air in a circular motion speeding up the evaporation process. Dehumidifiers are simultaneously set up to pull moisture out of the environment and lower the property’s relative humidity.

Finally, a professional will disinfect the carpet. For additional information, call our office today at (727) 521-2562!

Prepare for Hurricane Season

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

Hurricane Preparedness Checklist

Atlantic hurricane season runs roughly from June 1 thru November 30 each year, with September holding the spot for the peak hurricane month. While, technically, hurricanes can wreak havoc any time of the year, this is the time to be on your guard the most. With that said, there are several ways to prepare for these storms during the off-season so you are not caught unawares.

Stock Up on Essentials

You'll want to prepare for the loss of electricity and the ability to cook by stocking up on water, bread, non-perishables, and items you can eat without heating. Also, make sure you have:

• Extra batteries for flashlights or headlamps,
• Portable chargers and cables for cell phones,
• Candles with matches. 

Check Your Insurance

If you live in a hurricane-prone region, make sure your insurance covers flooding and other expenses you may incur because of a St. Petersburg hurricane.  

Make a Video of Your Home

If your home is damaged from hurricane winds and water, a home inventory video will help prove the pre-storm state of your home and make insurance claims processing easier. It would also be beneficial to make electronic versions of important documents related to your home and your personal information in case the originals are destroyed in the storm. Include digital files of documents such as your:

• Birth certificate
• Driver's license
• Home's deed
• Social security card

Protect Your Property

Install hurricane shutters or plywood of at least 3/4 inches in thickness. You may need to install hurricane clips to secure the roof of your home to the walls. This is important in areas that may receive a direct hit, and install foot and head bolts on all doors.

Make an Evacuation Plan

When it is time to evacuate, go. Make a plan for where you and your family will stay at least 50 miles from your St. Petersburg home. If you can, pre-pack a bag before the threat of an Atlantic hurricane is severe. Load it with clothes, blankets, food, water, electronics, and important papers or photos.

Use These Tips

Don't Take Risks. Ultimately, people are more important than things. People hurt in hurricane weather evacuate late or stay in their homes altogether. Be wise and get out early. Prepare in order to mitigate panic and this kind of risky behavior. 

We Help with Hurricane Recovery

We live and work in this community; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated cleaning, damage restoration, and construction business, SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg is a proud and active member of this community and is ready to respond to your St. Petersburg home emergency 24/7/365. Call us today at (727) 341-1001.

The 3 Types of Smart Smoke Detectors

4/17/2022 (Permalink)

Although classic smoke detectors haven't changed much over the past few decades, they have seen a few minor upgrades.

The 3 Types of Smart Smoke Detectors

Wait…there’s more than one type of smoke detector? Yes! That old smoke detector you grew up with is outdated. Although classic smoke detectors haven't changed much over the past few decades, they have seen a few minor upgrades.

Today's homeowner often opts for smart devices for added convenience. Perhaps it's time to consider adding your smoke alarm to the list of smart devices for your home. Take a look at three primary smart smoke detector options before choosing to upgrade:

Smart Battery

This is the most basic type of fire safety smart device available. Smart batteries have a short list of responsibilities, only notifying you, via push notifications, when your alarm goes off or when the batteries are about to expire. Batteries typically last for about five years, so you likely won't be receiving that type of alert all too often.

Smart Smoke Detector

The classic smart smoke alarm is a natural step up from the smart batteries. The primary difference between these alarms and classic detectors is that smart detectors connect to your internet. This allows you to receive notifications when the batteries are low or when the alarm goes off. This device also gives you the capability to silence incoming alarms from your mobile device.

Listener

If you're reluctant to replace your entire alarm, you can always opt for a listening device. These gadgets are intended to listen for alarms and alert you when one goes off. They're ideal if you have several alarms in your house and only want to install one device per floor, as opposed to replacing the smoke detectors in every room.

Replacing your smoke alarm with a smart device can help you stay vigilant. You can have the added ease of being able to deactivate alarms using your smartphone, and you won't have to put up with annoying low battery chirps. Contact fire remediation experts, like the local fire department, before you attempt to tamper with the alarms in your home.

How to Reduce Pet Stress During a Storm: Evacuation Plans

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these simple measures to reduce your pet’s stress.

Plan For Your Pets

Inclement weather or fires can happen with or without notice. Creating an emergency plan can help prevent damage to your home and belongings and protect you and your loved ones - including pets! When putting a plan together, it’s important to plan for their needs as well. 

Make an Evacuation Plan

Remember, if you must evacuate due to an emergency, the area is likely not suitable for your pets either. Your evacuation plan should consider where your pets will be taken, if not kept with you, and how best to transport them. Make a list ahead of time of pet friendly hotels or friends’ houses along your evacuation route and near your final destination. Know that some hotels and shelters do not accept animals. 

You also might want to build an emergency travel kit for your animals. This will save time and worry when you must evacuate. 

Items to include in your pet's emergency kit:

• A completed Emergency Pet Passport containing important information like your pets’ veterinarian contact info, medical needs, license/chip info, photos, etc.
• Leash, harness, and carrier with blanket to transport animals
• A few portions of a suitable non-perishable food, water bowl, bottled water, and can opener
• Cat litter and pan or bags for excrement
• Medications
• Toys

Don’t Have to Evacuate? 

If evacuation is not necessary, there are still some things you can do to reduce your pet’s stress in an uncomfortable situation like a thunderstorm.

Pet Stress Symptoms

Pets may exhibit signs of stress and anxiety that can be alleviated by simple measures. Some of these symptoms include whimpering, hiding, pacing, or shivering. These symptoms may be caused by a variety of factors including pets’ greater sensitivity to sounds and air pressure.

As stress increases, symptoms may become more severe. Follow these simple measures to reduce your pet’s stress:

• Remain calm as an owner
• Create a comforting space for them in a smaller room like a closet or under a blanket
• Close blinds and curtains
• Keep them in their normal routine, if possible

Read more storm and pet related articles here.

How to Prepare a Business for Storms

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Give us a call at (727) 341-1001 for 24-hour emergency service. Our commercial loss team is standing by to return your business to preloss condition.

3 Ways to Prepare for Storms

While disaster preparedness is not everyone's favorite activity, it can be the difference between a company surviving a storm and one that does not. When a hurricane strikes a small company, as many as 40 percent of these businesses never reopen. So a good plan is critical. Read further for our four top tips to prepare your company.

1. Buy Insurance. Have the right policy in effect when a storm strikes. Claims payments can replace lost inventory and damaged equipment that is vital to your success. Structuring a policy that makes sense for your company may take a time investment on the front end, but will save valuable time, money and energy given a claim-qualifying event. Business interruption insurance covers some expenses if the damage is severe enough to suspend normal workplace operations. 
2. Fortify the Building's Exterior. As common sense tells us, a sturdy building will prevail against high winds—like a hurricane or tornado—longer than a weaker builder. A fortified roof system, durable siding, and storm windows will have a better chance of keeping water out and holding up in strong winds.
3. Make a Disaster Preparedness Checklist. This document will include all the information needed in a storm: important contacts of emergency services in the area, the location of critical equipment, shutoff valves, and emergency supplies, and the phone number of a local storm remediation team for assistance in the recovery. SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg offers this information in the form of an Emergency Ready Plans or ERPs. These plans are drawn up by one of our team members to make sure you have access to our emergency services and other important information at a moment's notice.

It's a good idea to consult with experts and bring in professionals to coach employees on what actions to take and not to take in times of stress. Organizations such as FEMA have helpful resources to help with your efforts. 

About SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg

We specialize in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a storm, water, or fire event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Give us a call at (727) 341-1001 for 24-hour emergency service. Our commercial loss team is standing by to return your business to preloss condition.

Protect Your Home Against Wind Damage

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

When storms hit anywhere in the United States, our SERVPRO team can scale our resources to handle even the largest storm or flooding disaster.

Wind Damage from Different Types of Storms

While thunderstorms are the most common source of wind and storm damage, winds from hurricanes or tornadoes are more severe and may be more costly. Still, thunderstorms are responsible for a lot of damage, such as lightning, hail, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding. Either way, billions of dollars are spent on wind damage repair and storm damage restoration each year. While understanding the nature of wind damage can’t stop them from happening, it can help you limit the amount of damage to your property and save on restoration and repair costs.

What You Need to Know

Flying Debris is a Damage Risk

Flying debris can cause more damage than strong winds themselves. Damage can result from plants or other unsecured structures and objects. If a storm is approaching your area, make sure any potential debris in your homes such as patio furniture, toys, garbage cans are either secured or brought inside. Bonus tip: For severe weather, secure your doors and windows, too.

A Well-Designed Roofing System Does Wonders

Apply roof deck, shingles, or membrane over the decking. A well-designed roofing system will anchor the trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the structure in a strong wind. Roofing material should latch to the deck.

The construction phase of building a structure is the most influential piece in reducing damage caused by storms. Loosely connected shingles will lift from the deck, so fasten that siding down. Building codes will likely direct the minimum standards for connections. You, your architect, or your contractor may decide to exceed these minimums for a stronger storm-resistant structure.

Monitor and Maintain Your Trees.

Falling trees and tree limbs are another significant type of damage to structures in a windstorm. Maintain your trees by removing dead limbs. In addition, remove the entire tree if it is dead. Healthy trees should have strong enough roots to withstand fairly strong winds, but dead trees will not.

Mitigating Damage After a Storm

What happens after the storm? 

First, close any openings as soon as possible. Roof openings and broken windows are the most common source of water damage in these situations. Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that cuts to size and nail it over the opening. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of an emergency close-up, if needed, so contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

If the damage is too much to handle on your own, contact a restoration professional as soon as you can to help limit and repair damage and respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Faster Response

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quickly to your area with the right resources. This is extremely important because a fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Resources to Scale Up for Large Disasters

When storms hit anywhere in the United States, our SERVPRO team can scale our resources to handle even the largest storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1900 franchises across the country as well as our elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

What Is Cat 3 Water Loss? What About Cat 1 and Cat 2?

3/6/2022 (Permalink)

If you experienced a natural flood or sewage break at your home, you may have been told your property sustained Cat 3 (Category 3) water damage. So what is Cat 3 water damage? And what are the other 2?

Water Damage Categories

They are classified as follows:

• Category 1 damage, also known as “white water” (clean water)
• Category 2 damage, also known as “gray water” (clean water that sat for a while)
• Category 3 damage, which is known as “black water” (usually from flood water)

Category 3 water is not only contaminated, but it can also cause damage to your home. Professionally trained technicians can, fortunately, help you clean and decontaminate the building and items after a Cat 3 water incident.

Cleaning Procedures

When facing water damage caused by a contaminated liquid, your safest plan usually involves contacting a local restoration company. Professionals are trained to arrive quickly, assess damage accurately, and work safely and efficiently to clean, restore and construct your property.

After the assessment, the following cleaning steps typically occur:

1. Removal of water
2. Humidity reduction and drying of wet surfaces
3. Sanitation and cleaning of damaged areas
4. Remediation of damaged property through deep cleaning and reconstruction

The professional you choose may also offer digitization services for wet financial documents or photographs that need to be preserved. Additionally, trained technicians on the scene may have suggestions for a preservation method or a long-term storage situation for items that are priceless and irreplaceable, yet not entirely salvageable.

Being Prepared

Help us help you persevere in the face of such a nightmare. SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg is a local professional in the cleaning, restoration, and construction industry. Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. For a free estimate, call us today at (727) 341-1001.

Claims Just Got Easier: SERVPRO Works with Insurance

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

If you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, the last thing you want is to worry. For this reason, our team ensures they make a claim process as stress-free as possible. SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches Southwest St. Petersburg will help make it "Like it never even happened." That way, you and your family or business can get back to what is essential.

Our goal is to make the insurance process as smooth as possible. Therefore, we will:

• Create thorough visual and written documentation of the damage to your home or business.
• Document the condition of each item we remove for cleaning or storage.
• Work with your insurer.
• Handle the paperwork to make sure the processing and payment of your claim is quick.

We are so proud that so many insurance companies recommend SERVPRO to their clients. They are aware of the benefits that come along with our partnership. We do everything we can to make the entire process as easy as possible.

Our team is here for you if you experience a disaster. Our technicians have specialized training and years of experience in water, fire, mold, and biohazard cleanup and restoration services. Call (727) 341-1001; we're available 24/7.

Prevent Water Damage While on Vacation

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

7 Steps to Preventing Water Damage While Away

According to a study done by the Insurance Institute, homeowners' highest insurance claims are water damage. Leaky or busted pipes and appliances cause millions of dollars in damage during freezing weather and storms. Leaky pipes don't take a vacation when you do and can burst, generating hundreds of dollars of repairs. Prevent water damage while your on vacation by using this checklist:

Step 1. Check for Leaks Before Going on Vacation

Check pipes under your sinks and the water heater for any rust, cracks, or damage. You should check the seals by your windows to make sure there are no cracks. Additionally, check the exterior of your house and see the condition of your roof shingles. If any show damage, getting them replaced before leaving for vacation is a good idea.

Step 2. Inspect Your Major Appliances

You must inspect the hoses connected to essential appliances in your home, such as dishwashers, washers/dryers, and refrigerators.

Step 3. Clear Out Your Gutters

Make sure to get any debris out of your rain gutters before leaving for vacation. This way, you won't have any blockages that can cause overflows which can lead to foundation problems and water damages while you're away.

Step 4. Inspect Your Sump Pump

Make sure it is in good condition and clear any debris from clogging the pit. Run a few tests, listen to the sounds it makes, and ensure that the pump's water is going outside. Install a battery-powered backup in case there is a power outage while you're away.

Step 5. Insulate Exposed Pipes

If you plan on being away from your home during the winter, it can be a good idea to insulate any exposed pipes. This will prevent them from freezing while you are away.

Step 6. Get Someone to Check on Your Home

Call a friend or hire a professional house sitter to check on your home every week while you are gone. Instruct them to ensure that the heat is always on if your vacation is during the winter. Also, show them where the water main is in case of an emergency.

Step 7. Ease Your Mind By Turning Off the Water

Lastly, if you cannot find someone to check on your home, you should turn off the water main. Drain the pipes so that they do not freeze or burst during the colder months. To do this, run the water and flush your toilet after you turn off the water. Open the cabinets under your sink to let the warm air surround the pipes.

If you experience water damage while you are away from your home, contact SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches / Southwest St. Petersburg as soon as possible at (727) 341-1001.

How to Remove Odors from Your Florida Home

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches / Southwest St. Petersburg is here to help you remove odors from your building complex 24/7, 7 days a week at (727) 341-1001.

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches / Southwest St. Pete Removes Odors from Your Home

Odors from smoke, pets, decomposition, and mold can cause lingering odors in your home and business. A simple surface clean doesn't necessarily get rid of offensive odors left by smoke, mold, and other sources. However, with technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg provides specialized services that can eliminate those foul smells. 

Our professionals don't cover up lingering odors with a fragrance. We seek out the odor's source.

Once the source is found, we use SERVPRO's proprietary line of cleaning products to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will be cleaned and deodorized professionally. These items include:

• furniture
• draperies and upholstery
• electronics
• art
• flooring, walls, ceilings
• HVAC air ducts & more

Along with our proprietary line of cleaning products, SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg uses various techniques and equipment that are capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly. 

Tools We Use:

1. Ozone Generator: The Ozone Generator is one of the quickest ways to eliminate odors from a home or office. We use the Ozone Generator to oxidize odor and eliminate odors from mold, mildew, pets, nicotine, smoke, and more without chemicals. While the room is being treated, a person should not occupy the space. However, the generator works quickly.
2. Hydroxyl Generator: The Hydroxyl Generator has several benefits that the Ozone Generator does not. The main advantage is that the treated room can be occupied during the deodorization process, though it does work slower. It's used to treat fire, smoke, biohazard jobs, water damage, crime scene situations, and animal odors. 
3. Air Filtration Device: This piece of equipment, also known as an air scrubber, is used to remove airborne contaminants during water, fire, smoke, mold, and sewage restoration work. These work by pulling air through HEPA filtration to remove airborne particles from the air. Helping clean the air and remove odors.

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches / Southwest St. Petersburg is here for you 24/7, 7 days a week at (727) 341-1001.

New Year Cleaning and Decluttering For a Fresh Start

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Regularly scheduled home-maintenance and cleaning can curb hazardous, pricey problems in the future like fires and mold growth.

Regularly scheduled home-maintenance and cleaning can curb hazardous, pricey problems in the future like fires and mold growth. Since we are entering the new year, decluttering is a great way to improve the usability of your space—so you can freely undertake your big plans for the year.

More than a tidy environment

One of the easiest ways to declutter your mind is to declutter your home. If untidy environments are stressing you out, we suggest starting small. Pick up the general items around your most used spaces. Wash the dishes, fold the laundry, and make the beds. After the basics are cleaned, tackle the details. 

Deep clean the kitchen:

• Check for expiration and toss old food and condiments
• Wipe out refrigerator drawers, cabinets, the microwave, and oven
• Get rid of cupboard items you don’t use
• Empty the junk drawer

Main area cleaning:

• Dust ceiling fan blades
• Wash baseboards and walls—especially if you have children!
• Vacuum underneath furniture

Bedrooms/Closets:

• Wash curtains and linens
• Rotate and flip mattress
• Turn all hangers backwards, then when you wear an item, replace the hanger normally—this indicates which items you wear. Toss or donate backwards hanging items after 1 year.

Bathrooms:

• Scrub the bathtub walls and don’t forget the shower head
• Use a drain snake tool or drain liquid to break up stuck hair and scum in sinks and shower

Holiday Purge:

• For every gift received, get rid of one item
• Sell or donate decor you didn’t use this season

More technical:

• Replace air filters every 3 months
• Check and replace smoke alarm batteries

If you need more in-depth mold, fire, or water damage cleaning, SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches / Southwest St. Petersburg is Here To Help®. We understand not every clean up is quick, easy, or preventable. To inquire about our services, call us today at (727) 341-1001.

SERVPRO Fixes Fire and Sprinkler Water Damage

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

A fire in a commercial business can be devastating. Additionally, when the sprinkler system kicks on due to the smoke, the commercial damages are intensified. Most businesses and apartment complexes cannot afford to close for a day; it affects many different individuals' lives. SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park offers 24/7 commercial damage services to get commercial businesses back on their feet in as little time as possible. SERVPRO is Faster to Any Size Disaster™.

Using SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park commercial services is a one-stop-shop. In this example, if a fire burns through a commercial business and the sprinkler systems turn on, there will be both fire and water damages. SERVPRO's Commercial Services are an umbrella term that extend our normal services into the commercial setting. SERVPRO can simultaneously treat fire and water damages. Our commercial services reduce the cost that businesses pay because they do not need to look for multiple companies. SERVPRO is also essentially a liaison between insurance companies and clients.

Unfortunately, disasters are not preventable, but companies like SERVPRO are here to make it "Like it never even happened," with our residential and commercial services. For questions regarding SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park commercial services, contact the office at (727)521-2562 or message us on Facebook!

When This Doctor Needed Help, They Called SERVPRO

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

A doctor's office. A fire. Two things that don't mix. Fortunately, no one was injured. Still, we knew that in a situation like this, time was of the essence.

We got the call to come to a doctors’ office that had fire damage. We needed to help this business set up a temporary office so the doctors could continue to see patients. We responded with plenty of crew to remove the damaged contents and assess what could be cleaned and salvaged and what needed to be discarded. Contents that sustained only light soot damage were thoroughly cleaned and moved to their new but temporary office space so the doctors’ practice could resume as quickly as possible. 

Closely working with the client and the insurance company, we packed contents and began the cleaning process at our warehouse and on-site to get their business back up and running.

Contents ranged from waiting room furniture and files, to high-end instruments and tools needing intricate care. They hauled debris and cleaned the entire structure to remove soot that had traveled through the building. Ducts of the HVAC system were cleaned as the smoke and soot traveled through these systems as a means of escape. We readied the building for the re-construction project to begin, making the offices operational again.

In a fire of this magnitude, the project manager needs to oversee all activities to thoroughly complete the job. As one can imagine, this process takes months to complete. And it is always satisfying to see a job of this magnitude come to completion, knowing that our hard work helped members of our community. We know that situations like these require constant communication with our clients throughout the process to get the job done and to minimize the stress for our customers. 

When unfortunate circumstances require our services, we do our best to exceed customer expectations. We are always Here to Help®. For questions regarding SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park and SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg commercial services, contact the office at (727)521-2562 or message us on Facebook!

Do You Know What To Do In A Fire Emergency?

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Every Florida Business Should Have An Emergency Action Plan

Two-way communication is important before, during and after a disaster. Employees are the most crucial business asset, but are they informed of company emergency plans? These tips can help guide company’s preparation for a fire emergency.

Fire Plans: In addition to calling 911 immediately, make sure employees know what to do if there's a fire by conducting a fire drill at least once per year. This will keep seasoned employees aware of the workplace fire safety protocol and inform new ones.

Evacuation Plan: Post a fire evacuation plan in several spots around the workplace. Never include elevators in an evacuation plan; always use the stairs.

First Aid and : Employees should be familiar with the first aid kit and fire extinguishers' locations. Place the first aid kits and extinguishers where hazards are more likely to occur–such as in the kitchen.

If your commercial property has fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South/ St. Petersburg.

Dealing with Commercial Mold

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

Recently, SERVPRO received a call from a local property owner to check on a restaurant he purchased to renovate. The renovation resulted in a large mold job for SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / St. Petersburg. Upon entering this abandoned space, it became clear immediately this was a mold remediation job for the experts! So we went to work!

With mold covering the walls, the bar area, baseboards, and crown molding, our crew had to suit up with PPE, including respirators and Tyvek suits, to ensure protection! Mold remediation is a very tedious job for a home, but even more so for a commercial property like a restaurant. A containment setup is needed to prevent contamination of unaffected areas. All items with mold exposure required proper disposal. An industrial hygienist arrived after SERVPRO finished the demo and cleanup to ensure the commercial property checked out.

Mold remediation in a commercial property is a tedious yet rewarding job, especially when we get to see a building brought back to life! Contact us today!

3 Key Facts About Commercial Black Water

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Your Florida commercial building can be affected by flooding from several sources. Water damage can include warped flooring and moldy drywall, but one of the immediate issues caused by flooding is the influx of contaminated water. If your business has been damaged by flooding, it can help understand how this type of water can cause long-term damage and what you can do to mitigate it. 

It Can Contain Dangerous Chemicals 

Environmental experts often call contaminated water that stems from flooding Category 3 or “black water.” This means the water did not come from a sterile source and may contain various hazardous components, including harsh sewer and lawn chemicals that entered the water during flooding. These chemicals can make the water dangerous to touch, so calling in flood damage and cleanup service is the safest way to remove it. 

It May Cause Health Effects

Category 3 water damage can be dangerous in more than one way. For example, standing black water can grow microbes that may cause health effects. Urine and feces may also be present, even if they are not immediately visible, so it is wise to avoid this type of water entirely and wait for professional cleanup services to arrive. 

Acting Quickly Can Be Essential 

Because contaminated water can become more dangerous the longer it sits, it is good to call in a cleanup crew right away. This can be important even if you believe the worst of the damage has already been done. Having the water removed may reduce the chances of long-term issues with your building’s affected floors and walls and prevent mold growth, which can be challenging to treat once it takes hold. 

Black water damage can harm your Florida commercial building in several ways. However, when you know its dangers and how to combat them, you may be able to prevent the worst of the destruction.

Benefits of a Large Loss Response

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

When a disaster occurs in St. Petersburg, Florida, catastrophic loss often occurs. However, employing a restoration company that can offer a massive loss response can be useful for insurance agents and business owners.

1. Equipped With the Right Tools
When a major disaster strikes, the aftermath can be devastating. Restoration experts will likely be overwhelmed with requests. Some local restoration companies may not be equipped to handle all types of disasters, and these companies may not have access to specialized tools. A restoration company with a broad reach can bring the necessary tools from various locations to assist in the cleanup and restoration process.

2. Experience to Handle Catastrophes
Whether a catastrophic loss occurs due to flooding, storm, or fire damage, it's essential for business owners and insurance agents alike to know experienced professionals restoring commercial properties can help. One person alone may not have the experience to respond to a major disaster. However, when numerous people assist in responding to a disaster, the combined expertise makes the loss response team manage many aspects of commercial property damage.

3. Timely Reactions
When widespread damage occurs to an area, a local restoration company may not assess shortly after the disaster. Unfortunately, a slow response can cause a property to acquire more issues, such as mold growth, structural damage, etc. With a massive loss response, however, professionals can quickly assess a property, and after a thorough assessment, experts can assist in preventing additional damage and can begin restoration.

A massive loss response can make managing the effects of a catastrophic loss easier. An enormous loss response will allow various professionals from different areas to assess the damage. Experts will have the combined experience to handle multiple significant problems. Call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg.

10 Key Facts About Mold

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

10 Key Facts About Mold 

1. Mold exposure may cause health effects.
   
   
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
   
   
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate moisture sources.
   
   
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
   
   
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
   
   • Venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
   • Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
   • Increasing ventilation
   • Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning.
     
     
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
   
   
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent and dry thoroughly. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles that are moldy may need to be replaced.
   
   
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
   
   
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
   
   
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. Some molds can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

Eliminating Mold Growth Causes

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Remediates Mold Damage and Takes Steps to Prevent Future Mold Growth

A continuous state of elevated humidity is a primary cause of excessive microbial growth in Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg residences. It can quickly increase the amount of damage that follows. Other factors, such as the presence of absorbent materials in the home, can also play a role in how rapidly microbial growth occurs.

Whenever a residence in Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg sustains mold damage, one of the aspects examined inside the home includes water sources' presence. Leaky water lines, past flooding events, and saturated ground near the home can increase the amount of humidity the interior of the home experiences. SERVPRO technicians use moisture meters and other devices to locate the sources and areas where moisture accumulated. Once we discover these areas and sources, we can then resolve the situation that caused microbial growth to affect the home.

Mold remediation experts know that the existence of future invasive water can cause the microbial problem to return, rendering mold remediation efforts useless. Once we eliminate these sources, we can then begin removing mold-damaged materials, laundering and cleaning household items and furniture, and caring for the carpeting throughout the home. Walls that harbor mold, even if dormant, need cleaning and drying.

During our work, maintaining a set of controls to keep all mold contained safely affects our labor's overall outcome. Containment includes plastic sheeting and air scrubbers usage surrounding areas within the home. Sending microbes outdoors helps keep them from entering other areas of your property.

However, ensuring that moisture sources no longer exist should not help keep old sources from returning in full force. Effectively starving microbes, their population growth stays under control. Once we complete our remediation work, diligent homeowners know to keep an eye out for leaking water lines, loose connections, and other sources of moisture. Microbes do not need a great deal of moisture to begin growing again and causing future problems.

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg is always ready to serve those in our community. Contact us by calling our 24-hour service line at (727) 341-1001. Your family does not need to live with the effects of mold damage in your home.

Lightning Strikes Cause More House Fires Than You'd Think

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

The National Weather Service reports that lightning starts about 4,400 house fires each year, causing around $283 million in damages.

Here at SERVPRO of Gulf Beach South / West St. Petersburg, we can help you with fire damages caused by lightning strikes. When the lightning hits a residence, it travels through the electrical lines to one of the home’s electrical boxes, which can catch fire. These fires can leave severe damage, including smoke damage to your home.

SERVPRO of Gulf Beach South / West St. Petersburg’s mitigation team can do a chem-sponge technique used to clean soot off the walls. In doing this, SERVPRO of Gulf Beach South / West St. Petersburg can ensure that no fire damage or smoke damage goes untreated.

If needed, we can paint the affected walls after the cleanup is completed and replaced with the necessary drywall. Our professional in-house crew uses a white-glove treatment and quickly completes the entire project. You can count on SERVPRO of Gulf Beach South / West St. Petersburg from the first contact to completion.

Why Choose SERVPRO? Because in the event of fire damage or water damage, large or small, we’re here to help. Contact us at (727) 341-1001

10 Reasons to Partner with SERVPRO of East Arlington

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

People and businesses rely on SERVPRO to restore damaged property for many reasons. Here are just 10.

1. We Get It
We understand your situation. You want to keep costs down, repair the damage, and get back to normal while restoring your space to a healthy and safe condition. Those are our goals too.

2. SERVPRO Is Qualified
Our repair and restoration team members have the best training in the industry and many years of experience. Their dedication is evident in every job.

3. We Respond to You Immediately
You can reach us 24/7. When a disaster strikes, we respond as quickly as possible. We can draw on more than 1,700 U.S. and Canada locations to get the right equipment and professionals faster than other companies.

4. You’re Part of Our Team
We work with you and for you. You are in charge. You receive a complete explanation of the work we will do and why it needs to be done a certain way. We always try to minimize surprises.

5. We Use the Latest Technology
The past few years have seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow us to restore your property to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

6. We Practice the Golden Rule of Restoration
Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. SERVPRO professionals practice the golden rule, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary." We make sure pre-testing is completed on every loss to determine restorability.

7. For Claim and Other Purposes, Your Loss Is Itemized
We can give you an itemized loss inventory and you will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items. 

8. We’ll Help You Prevent Losses, Not Just Deal with Them
Our services start with prevention. We’ll come out to your business or home and do a review of how you can protect yourself, your family, your business, and your property from potential loss. That’s another old rule (from Ben Franklin) we like: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Check out our SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan for more info on prevention. 

9. We Handle Any Loss from A Natural Disaster—Big or Small
Have multiple locations? No problem. Suffer a small loss from water or fire or wind? We can handle it. Have a massive, complex disaster to recover from? That’s within our scope of services, too.

10. We’re Approved, Certified, And Experienced
We’re trained to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards in fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our professionals attend SERVPRO continuing education classes. SERVPRO has been in business for more than 45 years. Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO a leader in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. 

Career Opportunities at SERVPRO

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Interested in being a part of the SERVPRO family? Apply today!

With 17 franchises in 6 locations throughout TN, FL, and TX, SERVPRO Team Nicholson is an exciting, diverse, innovative place to work. We foster positive company culture, offer competitive compensation packages, and prioritize community involvement. Come find out what it takes to be a part of our team! 

Our mission is to be a proud, laser-focused team holding each other accountable while creating positive opportunities for our people and becoming the most efficiently run organization in the markets we serve. We value honesty, reliability, relationships, trustworthiness, and authenticity! Our team develops and provides solutions; we are go-getters and carry a “bring it” attitude to our work environment. We listen and value each other’s thoughts and ideas and strive to bring them to life. We are built on hard work, transparency, good business, and integrity. We believe “You can’t go wrong doing the right thing.” 

Bill Repsel, our Regional Administrator, shared his testimony on what it's like working for SERVPRO. He said "Every day is a new day. It is an opportunity to serve others in our community in a time of need. We have an incredible team of people with great talent that strives to make a difference every day." 

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg is proud of the work we do and is always looking for like-minded people interested in a rewarding career. Please submit your resume to recruiting@SERVPROclarksville.com, stop by our office at 3798 131st Ave N, Clearwater, FL. from 8:00 am-5:00 pm Monday-Friday, or click here to check out our current job openings.

Protection From Wind Damage

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Many areas of the United States have experienced heavy winds and storms this season, and the strong, powerful winds can cause significant damage to your home. Wind damage can cause a range of destruction to your property, from broken windows and fallen tree branches to severe damage to the roof, garage, or car. It can happen from the strong wind or indirectly from the wind blowing debris into your house.

Wind Damage from Different Types of Storms

Thunderstorms are the most common wind and storm damage, but winds from hurricanes or tornadoes are stronger and can severely damage. It can produce many types of damaging weather such as lightning, hail, tornadoes, straight-line winds, flooding, etc. Thunderstorms are responsible for wind damage cases in the U.S. However, storm damage repair may be costly for hurricane or tornado wind damage. Billions of dollars are spent on wind damage repair and storm damage restoration each year; understanding the nature of wind damage can help you limit the amount of damage to your property and save on restoration and repair costs.

It's important to know when a storm is approaching your area and what type of storm it is so you know the potential and level of damage to expect. These wind damage facts will help you better understand the potential for wind damage and how to prevent it. Here are some steps you can take to minimize the risk of damage to your home when severe weather strikes.

Preventing Wind and Storm Damage

Most wind damage starts by flying debris either from plants or other structures unsecured. If a storm is approaching your area, ensure any potential debris such as patio furniture, toys, garbage cans, and other objects are secured or brought inside. Secure your doors and windows to help minimize the potential storm damage to the home.

Roof damage reduces during the construction phase when the roof deck, shingles, or membrane is applied over the decking. A well-designed roofing system will anchor the trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the building in a strong wind. Roofing material should latch to the deck.

Loosely connected shingles will lift from the deck. Siding damage reduces at the construction phase. Fastened siding isn't as likely to lift off a structure in strong wind. Building codes will likely direct the minimum standards for connections. You, your architect, or your contractor may decide to exceed these minimums for a stronger storm-resistant structure.

Falling trees and tree limbs are another significant type of damage to structures in a windstorm. Tree maintenance to remove dead limbs or identify and remove weakened trees will reduce the likelihood of structural damage. Mitigating damage after a storm closes any openings made in the structure by the wind. Roof openings and broken windows are the most common problem.

Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that cuts to size and nails over the opening. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of an emergency close-up. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed. Falling trees and tree limbs can open a structure with sudden violence. A tree on a structure is a serious personal and structural safety issue.

Trees, at times, won't shift positions. It can shift and cause serious injury to the unwary. Fallen trees may mask severe other safety issues, such as downed electrical wires. The wires may still be live, and the tree itself energized. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

Suppose your home or business sustains wind damage during a storm. In that case, it's essential to contact a storm damage restoration professional as soon as it is over to help limit and repair the damage. SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

Preventing Flood Damage

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

According to the National Flood Insurance Program, flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States, causing $2.7 billion in losses between 2001 and 2010. Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding, so it may be necessary to buy a separate flood policy for your home.

Three Key Steps

Here are a couple of tips to keep water from entering your home during a heavy rain event:

1. Fix foundation leaks that may allow water to enter your home.
2. Make sure your roof is secure and protected.
3. Clear gutters and drains.

If water ever floods your home, getting someone on-site as soon as possible is key to keeping the amount of damage to a minimum. 

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg is ready to respond at any time and also provides a free assessment!

Kitchen Fire Prevention Tips

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Between 2012-2016, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) found that cooking was the leading cause of fires within the United States. It's important to remember your safety when cooking in our homes.

Easy Fire Prevention Tips

1. Don't leave stove tops or ovens unattended.
2. If you leave the kitchen, be sure to take an oven mitt with you to remind you that something is cooking on the stove or in the oven.
3. Don't pour water on a grease fire!

Panicking about a fire in your kitchen can make you do silly things sometimes. Instead, cover the fire with a cookie sheet to suffocate it. Or if it's a small fire, you can use salt to put it out as well. Make sure to always have a fire extinguisher on hand just if a fire breaks out in your kitchen.

If you experience fire damage, call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg today at (727) 341-1001.

How to Check for Roof Damage After a Storm

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

If you have storm damage contact SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg at (727) 341-1001.

After a significant storm, it's a good idea to inspect your property for storm damage. Your home's main line of defense is your roof, and it takes a beating. Pay attention to things like dings in your gutters or tears in your window screens, which indicate hail damage. You may see missing tiles or other signs of roof damage from the ground, but most leaks don't represent a need for whole roof replacement. Usually, the leak is coming from something requiring minor roof repair. Find the source of the leak, stop it, and clean the water damage.

Find the Leak Source

During storms in Florida, wind damage lets the rain into your roof. Inside the home, look for stains that indicate the leak source and the area that needs roof repair. You may see water stains on your ceiling or coming down a wall. When you see that, get your flashlight and head to that area. Here are five familiar sources for a roof leak:

1. Vents and fans

2. Chimneys

3. Window dormers

4. Vent pipes

5. Unsecured nails and nail holes

Fix Water Damage

To complete your roof repair, start looking for materials with water damage. Check for discolorations and rotting wood and wet drywall and insulation. When you find mold, remain careful and don't spread during the cleanup process.

A mold remediation professional can help create a containment area while working on the water and mold damage. If you haven't found mold, be sure to start drying any wet materials immediately. Mold can begin growing on wet damaged materials in as little as 48 hours. Complete drying is critical to preventing mold, and it may take longer than you realize. Specialists have monitoring equipment that they use to ensure materials are dry.

Overcoming Soot Damage

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Has the Experience to Eliminate Soot Residues Remaining in Your Home After a Fire

Your Florida home wasn't intended to stop fires before they spread to other areas of the house. The materials used to construct your home can catch fire and help it to spread throughout the structure. Unfortunately, this can spread the blaze throughout your property and cause significant work for the professional restoration team you choose for restoration. 

Working to clean up the mess after the incident is over is no easy task, either. The substantial effects that stand out are smoke and soot damages. These are standard versions of fire damage in Florida homes, and they can prove challenging to remove without the right equipment. 

Fortunately, our SERVPRO professionals have the tools and expertise to help you through often widespread soot damages throughout your household. Soot damage is predominately at the fire originating point, where it burned the longest; this isn't always the case. This matted debris and film from the combustion leave a dark, black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials. 

Removing this residue requires multiple approaches. For wall surfaces, scrubbing with wet and dry sponges can often remove the present film's bulk. Confined spaces like ductwork need high-powered vacuums to use instead. 

Smoke damage lingers in fabrics, carpeting, and open spaces throughout areas of your house. Removal of this odor requires thermal fogging, a process that releases an unscented chemical compound into the environment and contents of the room to break apart odor molecules and leaves no discernable scent behind.

There's very little that most homeowners can do alone to bring their homes back from the harmful effects of a fire. When you face these damages, seek out the professionals we employ at SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg. We can respond quickly and get your home back to preloss conditions as soon as possible. Call at (727) 341-1001.

5 Ways to Avoid Kitchen Hazards

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg can handle your fire damage restoration needs. Give us a call today.

Five Ways to Avoid Kitchen Hazards

Many people in Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg love to cook. However, even seasoned chefs sometimes make costly mistakes. Here are five helpful ways to avoid kitchen hazards, such as a drain clog or grease fire.

1. Keep Your Vents Clean

It's essential to keep the vent screens above your stove clean. Otherwise, grease can build up on the screen and inhibit ventilation, becoming a contributing factor in a kitchen fire. The grease buildup could even make a fire worse.

2. Don't Leave Pans Unattended

Most cooks know never to lean a pan unattended on the stove. The pan could be knocked over, grease can splatter, or the food can be allowed to cook too long. These things can be a fire hazard.

3. Don't Put Grease Down the Drain

When you're done cooking, it may be tempting to pour the hot grease down the drain. Built-up grease in the drain can lead to a drain clog and sink overflow. Instead, pour the grease into a container, allowed it to cool, and then placed it in the trash.

4. Wipe Out Greasy Pans Before Washing

Wipe off any remaining grease and food particles before washing your pans. This can help prevent buildup that may lead to a sink clog.

5. Call a Professional to Service Appliances

If you're having problems with your stove or drain, it may be time to call a professional. They will know how to fix the problem without causing a potential electrical fire. These can come from attempting to fix a broken stove or clogged dish disposal without the correct tools. If fire or flooding does occur, then a fire and water damage restoration service may help.

Follow these tips to help prevent problems like a drain clog or grease fire. Never leave your stove unattended when it's on, don't put grease down the drain, and call a professional if your kitchen appliances need maintenance. If a fire or flooding does happen in your kitchen, contact us; we may be able to help.

Inspecting Your Home for Damages After a Fire

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg can handle all of your fire damage restoration needs. Give us a call today.

When it comes to loss incidents, fire in your Florida home can prove challenging to overcome. Even without crippling structural damage, the effects of a recent fire can often be too far-reaching for the average homeowner to face independently. Conventional cleaning efforts and general deodorization, for example, pale in comparison to the effectiveness of professional restoration services.

Reacting to the fire damage in your Florida home can seem impossible. Once the extinguishment completes, you'll get your first look at the fire damage effects and what you have to overcome to get your house back to the way it was. Fortunately, this is not a battle that you have to fight on your own. Our trained SERVPRO team can handle fire damage restoration. From soot cleanup to deodorization, we can get your house to its original condition effectively.

Our estimator and project manager work to identify the full scope of the damage from when we arrive at your home. We survey every area, whether directly connected to the fire in your home or not. Our thorough inspection ensures that the damages get cataloged and that our professionals have the right equipment and strategies to contend with what they face.

The insurance company that covers your home will receive the assessment of your damages. Most claims won't get pushed through without a detailed itinerary of the work that needs doing, a general estimated cost for materials and labor to restore the home.

Whether the damage in your home was widespread or not, this process remains the same. Our professionals take great care in assessing the scope of the damage that your home faces in the restoration process. You can trust our SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg fire restoration specialists to work quickly to bring your home back to how it should be. Call at (727) 341-1001.

What Happens When I Have Water Damage?

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg can make your disaster "Like it never even happened."

Nobody likes the unexpected – it can be scary and overwhelming and, worst case, time, and cost-consuming. That's why here at SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg we try and ease the blow of the unexpected. A team of highly trained individuals with specialized equipment, tools, and skills is needed to ensure that your water damage is taken care of swiftly and adequately.

What Can I Expect When I Give You a Call?

First, one of our employees in the office will take your call. We'll take your name, number, and address down and then ask detailed questions. This ensures we know the scope of your situation. As soon as we hang up the phone with you, we'll dispatch a team out to your home or business so they can be on-site as quickly as possible. Additionally, we'll provide an admin within the office to take care of your job. They'll give you updates and work with your insurance provider.

Once at your property, we'll extract any standing water that needs extraction using either a handheld extractor or an extractor that we can ride on. We'll then place fans and dehumidifiers to help with the drying process.

In the next few days, we'll continue to monitor the drying process. If necessary, we'll drill holes and pull baseboards. Do you have unexpected water damage? Call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg today at (727) 341-1001.

Tips On Professional Water Damage Restoration

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg today!

Plumbing defaults, floods, and sewerage systems defaults can cause much water damage to any commercial building or residential premises. Water damage affects the structure of a house and the contents of that building. Whether the damage is from a pipe break, supply line break, or flooding, you should work with water restoration professionals who help restore the building to its normal condition. In flood damage mitigation, several things need taking into account because the process can be complex.

Water Damage Mitigation Approach

• Initial Inspection

The primary consideration is assessing the entire pipe break or supply line break systems and understanding the work requirements. Therefore, the water cleanup experts must conduct a comprehensive inspection process regarding the water in the home or water on business premises. This helps the restoration company understand the cost caused by the flood damages, the time frame of the mitigation process, and the materials and machines required in the process.

During the inspection, the professionals evaluate the cause of the pipe break or supply line break and try to stop excess water from entering the building. Some components inspected by a restoration company include the pipes supplying water on business premises, the water source, and supply lines. If the flood damages contain some sewerage components in the supply line break, the professionals will follow the necessary precautions.

• Water Removal

Once the company inspects the entire project, they'll proceed to the water cleanup process to evacuate water in business or residential areas. Water is extracted from the inside and outside the premises, including moisture removal. With good technology and efficient water extraction machines, thousands of water in a home can quickly remove the affected premises.

• The Drying Process

After water extraction, the restoration company uses dehumidifiers and air movers to ensure that space is dried. During the drying process, windows are opened to allow air circulation. The restoration companies must monitor the affected areas and make adjustments to their water cleanup equipment if necessary. The primary objective is to provide the most effective services, save the client money, time, and restore the building to its normal conditions within the agreed period.

• Actual Remodeling

This is the final step in any water damage removal process. The process entails re-tilling the house, painting, reconstruction of the walls and the floor, or even renovating the roof. Every remodeling process in each premise is different. This mostly depends on the extensiveness of the damage and the desires of the homeowner.

The remodeling process reflects the design a homeowner shall have after the entire damage renovation process. The homeowner should define and declare the designs they want, restoring to their flooded homes before the actual work is done. This helps in ensuring that the remodeling fits the desires and anticipations of the homeowner. It also helps the expert know the materials in restoring the flooded home, pipe breaks, and necessary supply line break.

Things to Consider

In case you experience floods in your home or business premises, it's essential to start the water cleanup process as early as possible. Removing some things from the flooded home, such as the furniture, fittings, electrical fixtures, and other belongings, is necessary even before you call the experts. These are things that can absorb water and cause more flood damages and thus more losses. Ask a reputable water removal companies to do such work for you to avoid more casualties during the mitigation of the flooded home. Call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg at (727) 341-1001.

Drying Out Water Damage

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Call (727) 341-1001 to schedule a visit.

SERVPRO Drying Out Water Damaged Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg Homes

After a plumbing disaster, Florida homeowners need a water vac to pull water off the floor, open the doors and windows, and rent a rug shampooer from the local big box store. To restore a home takes a professional restoration service. Drying a house with water damage in Gulf Beaches requires attention to four key factors that affect humidity.

SERVPRO restoration specialists train to analyze each one, knowing which drying methods and equipment they need to use in each home. It all comes down to HEAT. Humidity levels determine the level of water vapor in the air in a home compared to its capacity. A level of 60 percent or higher indicates the air is saturated. That greatly slows evaporation and increases drying time. Specialists use dehumidifiers to reduce the humidity level in each affected room. Working dehumidifiers can lower the level up to 20 percent every 24 hours.

Evaporation is the natural process of water converting to vapor. With large amounts of water, it is slow. Our SERVPRO specialists use pumps and smaller extraction devices to remove the bulk of the standing water. They get the amount below two inches in depth; the rate of evaporation increases. An augment rate of evaporation with dehumidifiers is to exhaust fans to increase movement, forcing saturated air outside the home.

Air movement increases using dry air to spread across damp surfaces like walls, tables, and countertops to increase the evaporation rate. Air movers and fans' combination to increase air movement is useful to dry clothing in a gentle manner that doesn't damage the fabric. Temperature is an essential factor. Since the preferred range to dry home and property is 70 to 90 degrees, we try to engage the HVAC system if it is operational. If not, specialists use space heaters to raise the internal temperature. They monitor the temperature to keep it under 80 degrees on the first day; however, a higher temperature can increase the humidity.

At SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg, we use every tool and method available to return every residence to a dry, safe condition. If you have had recent water damage in your home, call (727) 341-1001 to schedule a visit. We are here for you.

Storm vs. Flood

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg today!

Property owners may have a hard time differentiating storm damage from flood damage. Commercial properties can sustain water damage from either source. There're a few significant differences to keep in mind that may help you manage these risks.

The most general distinction is that stormwater comes from above. In contrast, floodwater overspills natural bodies or watercourses and covers at least two acres of ordinarily dry land.

Storm damage to a commercial property may originate from a variety of causes such as:

• High winds
• Heavy rain
• Hurricanes
• Snow
• Tornadoes

Most business insurance plans provide protection from damage caused by storms. Property owners need additional coverage to offset the expenses of flood damage. Suppose your property is located on a flood plain. In that case, you should make sure you carry the policies necessary to protect your investment.

Flooding occurs when water overflows a body of water or watercourse such as:

• Creeks
• Dams
• Lakes
• Storm-water channels

Water categorized as a flood must cover two acres and affect at least two properties. A commercial property located in a high-risk zone, and the owner has a mortgage from an insured and federally-regulated lender, they must maintain flood insurance. Damage resulting from either flooding or storms can cause severe problems. Be sure to plan, prevent, and handle as soon as possible. Regardless of the source of moisture, the risk of mold, and other secondary damage within a building can be just as severe.

Restoring Damage From Storms and Floods

Restoration specialists can help property owners determine the precise causes of damage and the best solutions. If a commercial property in Florida experiences flood damage or sustains damage during a storm, contact SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg.

Restoration Vs. Replacement

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

After fire damage occurs in your Florida home, the first 48 hours can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg can help prevent fire damage creating long-term problems. Our trained professionals provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke, and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. Our services help restore your property, belongings, and memories when possible.

A backdraft of emotions often sweeps over the homeowners after fire ravages a home. Fear, uncertainty, stress, and doubt about the property's future can overwhelm the homeowner long after the flames and smoke has cleared.

After the first wave of heroes has rescued the property, let SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg help you restore it. Before you risk further damage, call us at (727)-341-1001.

Storm Damage to your Florida Home

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

What to Do Before Floodwaters Enter the Clearwater Home

Homeowners have many different responsibilities, including taking care of damages when they purchase a home. The landlord can't make any repairs that are needed since the individual may be changing from renting to owning the property they are investing in. Some problems that a homeowner experience is relatively standard, while others may be the exception or an only one-time occurrence. A unique event may be a natural disaster like water damage in the home from thunderstorms, tornadoes, or a nearby river that overflows.

Regardless of the situation, people should know what they can do before tragedy strikes so that they are ready to protect their family and salvage anything that the flood water leaves. With this said, here are a few essential items of information that everyone should know, especially if they live in a high risks area for flooding.

Tip #1 – Make Sure Home Insurance Policies Include Flooding

When homeowners purchase insurance for their homes and property, it is essential to review the policies very carefully in detail. Considering this information can save the homeowner hundreds to thousands of dollars. This is because the policies they purchase must cover natural disasters like Clearwater floods not to lose their investment entirely.

Tip #2 – Ensure Carpeting on the Floors is Completely Dry

Preventing mold and mildew is a necessity if floodwaters enter the home. By hiring a professional to get the carpets thoroughly dry, the owner can save money in water damages in the long run.

Tip #3 – Move Furniture Items to a Higher Level

Whenever possible, the homeowner should move the furniture in the home to a higher level. This can help to minimize the damages and can also save items that may not be replaceable.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Know what to do before floodwaters invade the home can save homeowners thousands of dollars. For additional information regarding flooding and how to minimize water damage, contact SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg at (727) 341-1001.

Preventing Water Damage on Vacation

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

Do you have flooding in your basement? Call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg!

According to a study done by the Insurance Institute, homeowners' highest insurance claims are water damage. Leaky pipes and, in often cases, appliances cause millions of dollars of damage in freezing weather and storms. While you're on vacation, it's no surprise that a leaky pipe can burst and generate hundreds of dollars of repairs.

Step 1. Check for Leaks Before Going on Vacation

Check pipes under your sinks and the water heater for any rust, cracks, or damage. You should check the seals by your windows to make sure no cracks that might cause water damage. Additionally, check the exterior of your house and see what condition your roof shingles are in. If any show damage, getting them replaced before leaving for vacation is a good idea.

Step 2. Inspect Your Major Appliances

You must inspect the hoses connected to essential appliances in your home, such as dishwashers, washers/dryers, and refrigerators. If there's any damage, you should get the hose replaced before you leave to prevent extensive water damage.

Step 3. Clear Out Your Gutters

Make sure to get any debris out of your rain gutters before leaving for vacation. This way, you won't have any blockages that can cause damage while you're away.

Step 4. Inspect Your Sump Pump

Make sure it is in good condition and clear any debris from clogging the pit. Run a few tests, listen to the sounds it makes, and make sure that the pump's water is going outside. Install a battery-powered backup in case there's a power outage while you're away.

Step 5. Insulate Exposed Pipes

If you plan on being away from your home during the winter, it can be a good idea to insulate any exposed pipes. This will prevent them from freezing while you are away.

Step 6. Get Someone to Check on Your Home

Call a friend or hire a professional house sitter to check on your home every week while you are gone. Instruct them to ensure that the heat is always on if your vacation is during the winter. Also, show them where the water main is in case of an emergency.

Step 7. Turn Off the Water

Lastly, if you cannot find someone to check on your home, you should turn off the water main. Drain the pipes so that they do not freeze or burst during the colder months. To do this, run the water and flush your toilet after you turn off the water. Open the cabinets under your sink to let the warm air surround the pipes.

If you experience water damage while you are away from your home, contact SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg today at (727) 341-1001.

How Surface Water May be Causing Your Flooded Basement

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

How to Protect Your Foundation and Prevent Basement Flooding

A flooded basement can be caused by surface water flooding, meaning external water that's not draining correctly away from your home. You can do a few things to help protect your foundation and prevent this type of flooding. SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg is here to help. 

1. Dealing with Roofline Overflow

Overflowing and clogged gutter systems can result in significant damage; overflow from gutters can lead to the wearing away of soil and foundational cracks. The three most common causes of gutter system overflow and basement flooding are:

• Leaf Buildup: Gutters should be cleaned a few times per year, typically at the change of seasons. When debris is left to clog the gutters, the overflow trickles down exterior walls and into your basement.
• Insufficient Downspouts: If there're not enough downspouts, or if they are an inadequate diameter, then water can overflow during heavy rains.
• Inadequate Downspout Length: Downspouts should extend at least 10 feet away from your home.

2. Preventing Flooding Due to Landscape Design

If not appropriately sloped, landscaping can force surface water to settle toward the house, which, if left unchecked, will weaken the soil around your foundation and lead to cracks in basement walls, allowing water to enter. Avoid this issue by ensuring all landscaping, pathways, and driveways slope away from your home. If this is not possible, then invest in a proper drainage system around your home to carry water away from your foundation. 

3. Reducing the Risk of Storm Water Backing Up

For many older homes, city storm sewers are connected to a perimeter drain. While a sump pump can prevent the risk of water backing up, storm drains can become overwhelmed and leave your sump pump ill-equipped to handle the surge when heavy rains hit. Installing a cap on the external drain can resolve the issue but may involve storm damage specialists in the Gulf Beaches area.

A flooded basement is preventable by eliminating common causes of surface water flooding. Ensuring gutter systems are adequate, sloping landscaping away from your foundation, and capping off nuisance drain pipes are several ways to help you prevent future flooding.

When a Disaster Strikes in Your Gulf Beach Home, Call Our Crew!

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg today!

Why SERVPRO is the Choice For Restoration in St. Petersburg

With decades of experience across the restoration services that we offer the Gulf Beaches South area, we know how to help when every minute counts. We have ready trailers and service vehicles prepared to roll out from our SERVPRO facility 24/7 to address the harsh effects of water, fire, storm, and mold losses. We have trained professionals to handle more specific recovery niches like air duct cleaning, biohazard cleaning, abatement, and reconstruction efforts. These talents, aiding in every facet of our customers' work, improve our efficiency and effectiveness in your home or business.

Storm

Storm damage in Florida homes is a common situation that our SERVPRO professionals must address. Florida is susceptible to severe storms from both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Properties in this midsection must remain prepared for inevitable run-ins with hurricanes, tropical storms, tornadoes, damaging winds other harmful conditions. Our ability to handle these situations is partly due to our commitment to the training and growth of our specialists, ensuring that each loss incidents gets technicians that can:

• Extract and dry up floodwater (WRT – Water Restoration Technician)
• Clean contaminated areas where they exist (Biohazard Cleaning)
• Deploy air movers and dehumidifiers for effective drying solutions (ASD – Applied Structural Drying)
• Clean Carpets and other flooring types (CCT – Carpet Cleaning Technician)
• Prevent microbial growth or address present colonization (AMRT – Applied Microbial Remediation Technician)

The other aspect that has allowed our disaster relief team to become so successful in the Gulf Beaches South area is our commitment to having the top-tier equipment that gets the job done quickly and correctly. We keep storm trucks stocked with a deep inventory of recovery and mitigation tools, including submersible pumps, engine-driven trash pumps, power washers, air movers, and dehumidifiers.

We can offer a full-service approach amid a crisis so that our customers do not have to waste time finding secondary contractors to handle other aspects of their recovery. We have the skilled professionals to perform board-up and tarping services for your residence amid flood penetration. We can also oversee full-scale reconstruction once mitigation completes in your Florida property.

Water

We know how easily water loss incidents can develop, and that's why training our restoration technicians in this niche is a constant and continual process. The science of restoring water damage in St. Petersburg homes is evolving and consistently changing. So our professionals have to move along with it – putting these new practices and equipment into use to help our customers with the most efficient and practical approach. Our commitment to customer satisfaction and the outcome of your loss incidents goes far beyond our IICRC training.

Our restoration team has access to equipment and machines that far exceed the limitations of conventional recovery tools. The truck-mounted water extractors that our SERVPRO team uses, for example, can handle the removal of thousands of gallons of water every day. Combined with multiple other impressive equipment pieces, this vehicle sets our professionals apart in water damage restoration for the Gulf Beach South area.

We also have the capability of addressing the massive loss of water damage for commercial properties and houses. 33 years of industry experience and a roster that features Commercial Drying Specialists (CDS) and those with WRT and ASD endorsements, no job is too big or too complicated for our field technicians with the right approach, equipment, and attitude.

Fire

Our team is responsible for many structures in this area alone; the possibility of fire damage is a persistent threat. Knowing the best approach to handle these conditions hinges on the severity of the situation and what materials, surfaces, and contents have become affected. Our IICRC-Certified Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) and those with additional training in odor control and upholstery/carpet cleaning have access to equipment that can help our team restore loss incidents quickly.

Much of our efficiency in fire recovery stems from these advanced and cutting-edge machines. Soot removal and cleaning, for example, often fall to a combination of specially-formulated cleaning agents and products with automated surface scrubbers that can eliminate residues on surfaces.

Every minute counts in fire restoration. Our technicians obtain IICRC certifications and train to understand how fire damage in St. Petersburg homes and businesses spreads and the best approach to overcome the damages.

Mold

Before our certified AMRTs can set up containment barriers and begin the often-intricate process of mold remediation in your Gulf Beach home or business – our professionals must locate the source of the moisture and dampness. These conditions are likely to happen again without adequately identifying how the water damage facilitated mold growth.

Sometimes the humid conditions are enough to generate these hazardous circumstances, as interior humidity above 60% can mold growth on ceilings and other organic materials. The initial approach is to establish isolation zones using our powerful negative air machines in conjunction with physical plastic sheeting. Mold damage in Florida homes can spread quickly and harmfully without these containment barriers.

Suppose our technicians reach the situation in your Orlando residence fast enough. In that case, many of the hosting materials can get repaired using sophisticated equipment like dry ice blasting machines and soda-blasting equipment. These approaches can remove mold debris without harming the surface and substrate.

St. Petersburg is a highly active area of the country, and as such, the threats of emergencies and disasters never cease. You can count the swift response of SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg team in a crisis. Give our professionals a call anytime that you need us at (727) 341-1001.

Why You Should Choose SERVPRO to Handle Your Property's Mold

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

If you have mold, contact SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg.

Before we begin to tell you why you should choose SERVPRO to handle your property's mold, let's start with what mold is. Mold is a living organism belonging to the kingdom fungi. Due to mold not capable of making its food, it has to gain its nutrients from other substances. Mold is composed of thread-like filaments called hyphae. The hyphae then form a conglomerate called a mycelium. While mold itself has no mobility, its hyphae can grow quite large. Why should you choose SERVPRO to handle your property's mold? We can give you two reasons:

#1 We Are Highly Trained Mold Remediation Specialists

SERVPRO professionals specialize in water and mold damage restoration. We have Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist, Water Damage Restoration Technician, and Applied Structural Drying Technician training and expertise to safely handle any mold situation.

#2 We Use Advanced Mold Remediation Techniques and Equipment

While every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same.

Step 1: Emergency Contact 1-833-683-4550

The mold cleanup and restoration process begin when you call our National Customer Care Center to receive all the information needed to begin the process. 

Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

SERVPRO professionals will carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. 

Related: Warning Signs You Have A Mold Problem

Step 3: Mold Containment

SERVPRO professionals will use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold in your house. 

Step 4: Air Filtration

Their specialized filtration equipment allows their professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. They utilize powerful "air scrubbers" and HEPA vacuums to prevent these mold spores' spread while the mold remediation is in process.

Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth. 

Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings

SERVPRO professionals will clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, and other restorable items affected by mold. 

Step 7: Restoration

Depending on the mold damage level, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may need removal. Restoration may involve minor repairs such as painting or installing new carpet, or it may entail major repairs such as reconstructing various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Understanding the 3 Types of Water Damage

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

There're several occurrences of water damage. It can come fast or occur slowly; it can be a quick fix or a significant property issue. It can be an expensive fix or time-consuming to solve. When this happens, SERVPRO Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg wants to be there for you!

Being educated on water damage types can help give you peace of mind and help you prepare. There're three general categories of water damage.

Clean Water

This water is clean and comes from an uncontaminated source. If this occurs, know that it is not dangerous if consumed by pets or people. This type of water damage may occur if an incoming water line bursts, you have a bathroom flood due to an overflowing sink or tub, or have a small leak from an internal water pipe. SERVPRO can help extract the water and dry surfaces out for you. It's essential to have this done by an expert, as any remaining wet areas can bring on further issues such as mold, fungus, or rotting materials.

Grey Water

Grey Water comes from a source with some contaminants in it. If a leak, puddle, or sitting of "Clean Water" is left for too long, this can turn into Grey Water. Other sources include sump pump failures, overflowing washing machines, and even some sewage pipes. This water type may cause people and animals to become sick if their exposure is high or consumed. SERVPRO recommends calling them to handle the water professionally.

Black Water

Black Water is the most hazardous type of water damage that can occur. This water is too contaminated and likely comes from a natural disaster or sewage plumbing. This water may sometimes look clean but can contain microbes that can be toxic and harmful. When it comes to home flooding emergencies, Black Water floods can be the most destructive. This is due to the water's unsanitary conditions, causing bacteria, chemicals, and toxins to absorb into the porous items in your home. Carpets, upholstery, and drywall are often destroyed in this unsalvageable disaster.

Clean and Grey Water has the potential to even turn to Black Water if left standing or unattended. Please call SERVPRO to help remove water and disinfect your home immediately if this affects your home, and avoid exposing you and your household as it can cause illness. Our team of professionals can help in any circumstances needed!