Understanding Mold in Your Business

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Buildings can develop mold growth after a storm that causes flooding.

Mold growth can appear on damp surfaces within 24 to 48 hours. Mold reproduces by tiny spores that travel through the air. Once they land in a new location with moisture, they will start to destroy your building in New Braunfels, TX. This can cause a lot of expensive damage. Here are some questions that you can use to understand this fungus.

Why Is There Mold?

Buildings can develop mold growth after a storm that causes flooding. Some of the big problems that occur during storms that lead to mold include:

• Flooding
  
• Sewage backups
  
• Roof leaks
  
• Flooded basements
  
• Open windows
  
• Foundation problems
  
  

How Do You Dry a Building?

The best way to dry your building is to hire a storm restoration company. Otherwise, you can do this on your own with some bleach, fans, and dehumidifiers.

What Do You Need To Clean It?

You will need personal protective gear to clean mold yourself, such as gloves and a mask. Aside from this, you will need standard cleanup items, including buckets, scrub brushes, brooms, trash bags, shop vacs, and sponges. Finally, you will need something to kill the mold, like a detergent or bleach.

What if You Have Health Problems?

Everyone is regularly exposed to mold spores inside and outside of buildings. However, standing water makes the risk from mold spores much greater, so it is better for people who have health problems to avoid working inside buildings that have recently experienced flooding.

How Can You Prevent Mold in the Future?

It is not possible to remove all mold growth from your business. However, there are many ways that you can limit the amount of mold that grows in the future. The best methods include stopping any leaks, keeping your business clean, keeping surfaces dry, and routinely disinfecting areas at risk for mold.
While bacteria may be the first contaminant on your mind after a storm floods your business, you should also be concerned about mold. This fungus can do costly damage, so you need to take the proper steps to dry your building and prevent mold in the future.

What Do You Do if Your Apartment Building Has Mold Contamination?

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

A water leak is probably the most common cause of mold growth.

Floating in the air around us are billions of mold spores. They’re part of the natural environment in New Braunfels, TX, and are generally harmless to humans. However, under the right conditions, toxic black mold can develop and spread explosively.
In an apartment, mold cleanup may be the responsibility of either the landlord or the tenant, depending on the circumstances. It’s important to seek professional mold remediation experts immediately when it’s found since it indicates that ongoing water damage is occurring.

What Is Black Mold?

Mold and mildew are quite different from each other. Mildew grows on the surface of areas exposed to high humidity, including:

• Around windows
  
• On shower walls
  
• Near sinks
  
  

Mold contamination, however, gets embedded below the surface. It grows on absorbent materials, including:

• Drywall
  
• Wood
  
• Fabrics
  
• Paper
  
  

As it grows, it eats the material it’s feeding on to expand the colony. This can weaken the structure and fill the building with a musty odor.

What Causes Black Mold Growth?

Since mold spores are so ubiquitous, it’s very difficult to completely remove them without expensive laboratory air scrubbers. The real key to controlling mold growth is to prevent excess moisture from remaining around materials made of cellulose.
A water leak is probably the most common cause. Letting the toilet or a sink overflow can also cause mold growth, especially if it happens more than once.

Who Is Responsible for the Mold Cleanup?

Black mold can be slimy, shiny or fuzzy, while mildew typically appears powdery. Educate your tenants about what mold looks like. A hidden drip that continues for a long time can cause massive damage to an apartment building, and mold is a sure sign of excess water.
If you or your tenants smell a musty smell in a specific area, unless you see mildew, it’s probably mold growth, and a water source needs to be fixed. In general, it’s the landlord’s responsibility to clean up mold when tenants have taken reasonable care of their apartment.
Mold contamination is easy to remove when caught early. If you have any doubts, your landlord or mold cleanup experts should be able to answer your questions.

4 Things To Expect During Fire Damage Restoration

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

The specialist will use a tarp and other protective materials to cover any holes and other vulnerabilities.

Steps During Fire Damage Restoration

The services of fire damage restoration specialists are necessary after a fire impacts your Nixon, TX, business. However, if this is your first time working with them, you may not know the proper procedures. If you are curious about the process and want to oversee the work, learn more about the steps you should expect during the restoration process. 

1. Damage Assessment
Once the experts make a fast arrival at your property, they will assess the damage. Specifically, they will measure the extent of the fire and smoke damage throughout the location. This process ensures that they will have the necessary information to create a unique plan for your commercial fire case. 

2. Damage Reduction 
Depending on the extent of the damage, the building may be vulnerable to further deterioration during the cleanup and repair. As such, the specialists will use a tarp, fencing and other protective materials to cover any holes, broken windows and other vulnerabilities that could endanger the fire damage restoration efforts. 

3. Property Cleanup
Once the building is safe from additional damage, the next step is the soot, dust and smoke cleanup. These residual materials darken the look of the building, so they are removed with advanced cleaning techniques. Damaged items and equipment are assessed, and if they are deemed irreparable, they are disposed of. Finally, any water damage caused by broken pipes or sprinklers is dried and sanitized. 

4. Property Restoration 
The final and most important step is the restoration itself. Every damaged object and structure is repaired. Some workers can even go one step beyond and improve these features to your specifications, from flooring and walls to furniture and machinery. Anything that is impossible to restore or fix can be replaced with newer counterparts. The company may also provide consultation focused on preventing future incidents. 
Your situation may not resemble the ones experienced by other businesses, but the repairs may follow similar steps. It is important to know the fire damage restoration process to ensure everything goes as planned. 

How To Stop a Fire Alarm From Beeping

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

It is recommended that the batteries be changed in each alarm every six months.

How to Quiet a Beeping Fire Alarm

It’s critical for your fire alarm to work when you need it. If the beeping sound goes off in the middle of the night for no foreseeable reason, however, it can be irritating and jarring. Let’s examine a few causes and remedies for the unpleasant noise.

1. Replace the Batteries

One of the most common reasons for a continuous beeping is a battery that is losing its power. It is recommended that the batteries be changed in each alarm every six months. Make sure you switch out the old batteries with properly-placed new batteries so that you know the device is working.

2. Clean the Alarms

Dust can settle into the crevices of your alarm and cause it to malfunction. If it beeps continuously, open the fire alarm and gently blow out the dirt with a small air blower. Since lodged dirt can also make the device stop working altogether, get in the habit of checking it for dirt and dust every few weeks. One of the last things you want to deal with is smoke damage in your Nixon, TX, home, so it’s important to stay vigilant.

3. Reset the Device

Resetting the alarm will sometimes stop it from beeping. At the circuit breaker, turn off the power to the alarm. Carefully remove the device from the wall mount. After unplugging the power supply and removing the battery, hold the test button down for about 20 seconds. Replace the battery and plug the power supply back in. Once you have restored the power at the circuit breaker, reattach the alarm to the wall mount.
If your alarm malfunctions during a fire, the resulting fire damage should be addressed quickly. Water and smoke can cause severe damage, so call a fire restoration service right away to inspect your home.
Make sure to conduct routine maintenance on your fire alarm, and it should serve you well for several years.

How To Protect Your Building From Significant Fire Damage

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

If a fire starts in your business, protecting your employees is your biggest concern.

How to Prevent Serious Fire Damage to Your Building

Your business in Marion, TX, depends on the security and safety of the building in which it is located. While it is certainly preferable that a fire doesn't break out at all, it's important to know what to do if one does. Good fire prevention and fire suppression strategies are a big part of making your building safe for you and your employees.

Evacuation

If flames erupt, protecting your greatest asset - the people inside - is likely your biggest concern. To ensure that they are able to get out of the building quickly in the event of a business fire, prepare with the following steps:

• Clear evacuation route, marked by maps posted in prominent locations
  
• Emergency plan that outlines responsibilities and expectations
  
• Contact information for insurance, emergency personnel and fire restoration experts
  
• Regular fire drills to practice the plan
  
  

Prevention

The best defense against fire, of course, is to keep it from happening in the first place. Most fire prevention tactics are simply a matter of keeping your building up to code. A fire marshal should inspect your building at least once a year. Comply with the instructions given after the inspection. Replace any questionable wiring as soon as you notice there is a problem. Keep appliances a few inches from the wall. Make your building as fire-safe as possible.

Suppression

No matter how much effort you put into prevention, sometimes accidents happen. Store fire extinguishers throughout your building, and make sure everyone who works there knows how to use them. This can prevent a small fire from becoming unmanageable. A sprinkler system can limit fire damage by unleashing a torrent of water as soon as the air around the detectors reaches a certain temperature.
It is your responsibility as the business owner to protect your building and everyone in it from the potential threat of fire. With proper fire prevention and suppression strategies, you can rest assured that your building is as safe as possible.

How To Clean Your Grill and Why You Need To

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

Proper grill cleaning after every meal makes maintenance much easier.

Grill Maintenance

Nothing says summer in Marion, TX, like the smell of your favorite foods on the grill. When the temperatures climb, it may feel easier to take dinner prep outdoors rather than sweat over a hot stove. However, it's important to clean your grill every time you use it. Not only does this prolong the life of the appliance, but it protects your home from fires as well. In a survey between 2014-and 2018, over 10,600 home fires were linked to grills and barbecues. A buildup of oil and grease makes your grill more susceptible to putting up large flames that can catch onto porches, roofs, and dry grass. Proper grill maintenance is essential for keeping your favorite summer activity safe.

1. Clean the Grates

Proper grill cleaning after every meal makes maintenance much easier. For either a gas or charcoal grill, scrub the grates while they're still hot and before the food particles stick too badly. Some people like wire brushes, though balled-up aluminum foil also works and won't leave little bristles behind.

2. Check for Grease or Ashes

Avoiding grease fires is a top priority with gas grills. Before you turn on the grill, check the grease tray. If it gets overfilled, you'll be cleaning grease spots off your patio. Similarly, always dispose of all completely cooled ashes from your charcoal barbecue.

3. Deep Clean Annually

When grilling season ends, deep grill cleaning saves your grill and prevents problems next season. Kicking off the season the next year with a fire due to an improperly maintained grill can put a major damper on your next barbecue.

4. Know Grease Fire Safety

Educate yourself on how to extinguish a fire in your grill. Never use water, as water can actually make a grease fire worse. Closing the lid is a good first step because it stops oxygen flow to the flames. If you do have a home fire, a local fire restoration company can help with repairs.
Enjoy grilling season to the fullest by practicing good grill cleaning habits to protect your home and your dinner.

Special Techniques To Protect Your Home From Fire

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

Clean the hose at the back of the dryer.

Special Fire-Resistant Techniques for Your Home

Fires happen in homes for many reasons. The six most common causes of house fires are as follows:

• Cooking
  
• Heating appliances
  
• Electrical
  
• Smoking
  
• Candles
  
• Chemicals
  
  

If your home in Gonzales, TX, has a washer and dryer, you could experience a lint fire. Because lint is an easily combustible material and because your dryer generates heat, this is a combination that should be monitored. Lint can build up in several places. The first spot is the lint trap, which should be cleaned out after each use. You should also occasionally rinse down this sheet of plastic as well as vacuum out the vent.

More Advanced Cleaning of the Dryer

A second spot to clean is the hose at the back of the dryer. This area should be looked at regularly to reduce the chances of a dryer fire. In many new models, a sensor will indicate if there is too much lint present; this sensor might not even allow you to operate your machine in these conditions. Every now and then, you will want to undertake complete cleaning of your appliance to protect against a lint fire. This involves removing the back panel of the appliance. For safety, you should unplug the dryer from the power source. Once the back panel is removed, look for the accumulation of lint and remove it manually or with a vacuum.

Other Methods of Preventing Fire Damage

It is important to install working fire alarms throughout your home. Regular monitoring of any space heaters in use is always important. The use of candles in the home should be limited to adults, and candles should never be left to burn unsupervised. If you do experience a fire, a quality fire restoration company can minimize damages to your home through quick and efficient actions. Avoiding a lint fire and other dangers can be accomplished through a combination of common sense and preventative maintenance.

How Homeowners Can Prevent Winter Storm Damage

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Storms can cause shingles to be blown away allowing rain to go into your attic space.

How Can Homeowners Avoid Winter Storm Damage?

Preventative maintenance can limit the damage that winter weather can inflict on a home in Selma, TX. Here are three measures homeowners can take to prepare for any conditions this season may bring, from below-freezing temperatures to a severe winter storm.

1. Maintain the Roof

A blizzard will test the condition of any roof. Three inches of dry snow can add up to 10 pounds per square foot to a roof, while wet snow can add up to 60 pounds per square foot. It is important to ensure that a roof is in good condition prior to the start of winter. Rather than risking a cave-in or collapse, it may be advisable to safely rake or sweep snow off of a roof to lighten the load.

Uneven attic and roof temperatures can also cause ice damming. Snow that melts and refreezes around the eaves can cause roof damage that leads to leaks. Roofers can recommend solutions for keeping an attic cool, insulated and ventilated. Homeowners should also make sure that gutters and downspouts are clear.

2. Protect Pipes

Pipes that run near exterior walls may require insulation. It is also important to maintain a consistent interior temperature no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. When temperatures dip below freezing, a homeowner should trickle faucets and leave cabinets that contain plumbing open.

3. Seal Doors and Windows

Severe damage may occur if an exterior door blows open during a winter storm. Properly-sealed doors and windows are also much more efficient. Weather stripping can reduce the amount of warm air that seeps out of a home and prevent condensation.

Homeowners should take measures to maintain the condition of a residence all year round to avoid the need for extensive repairs during the fall. If a blizzard or winter storm damages a residence in  Selma, TX, storm restoration specialists can quickly provide mitigation services.

4 Immediate Steps to Take After a Toilet Overflows

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

If you are having issues with an overflowing toilet, call SERVPRO of Guadalupe and Gonzales Counties.

What To Do When Toilet Overflows?

Sewer damage or foreign objects can result in an overflowing toilet. The last thing you want is for a bathroom to become unusable because it is filled with water, especially contaminated water. No matter what, you should contact a sewage cleaning company in Seguin, TX  right away. Professionals should arrive promptly to fix a flooded toilet, especially if you state it is an emergency. However, there are steps you can take on your own to prevent the damage from getting worse before experts get there.

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Most toilets are designed to stop filling the bowl with water at a certain point to prevent flooding. However, an issue with the system can cause the bowl to fill up past the breaking point. You should know where the water main is located in your house. Turn it off promptly before more sewer damage is allowed to enter your house.

2. Turn Off Electricity to the Bathroom

It is also a good idea to shut off the circuit breaker supplying power to the bathroom. Even a small amount of water can result in electrocution if someone steps in it. Many bathrooms in Seguin, TX do not have power outlets close to the ground, but if yours does, then you want to make sure it is not hot when it comes into contact with water.

3. Circulate Air

To prevent the air from getting too humid, you should promote ventilation in the bathroom. Open up windows to get air moving. You should also bring in fans if you can, which you can keep in the other room or hallway, so you are not setting them directly in the floodwater.

4. Remove Soaked Bathroom Rugs

If you can safely do so, then remove bathroom mats on the floor that have sustained sewer damage. If you cannot, then wait until the sewage company arrives so that professionals can salvage your belongings. With a quick enough response, you may be able to prevent mold growth by washing the mat thoroughly.

The Four Professionals You Need for Commercial Water Restoration

3/5/2022 (Permalink)

A flood cut has been performed in this building.

For Commercial Water Restoration, You'll Need These Four Experts

If you need pipe burst cleanup or have a supply line leaking in your commercial property, you should call a professional cleanup company to help you with water cleanup. These companies in Cibolo, TX  can help it look like nothing ever happened. The key to this restoration is the team of four technicians that oversee the following steps of the cleanup process:

• Water Damage Restoration
  
• Applied Structural Drying
  
• Odor Control
  
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning
  

Together, these technicians can restore your business after a flood from a burst pipe or leaking supply line. These are not just titles; each person has an essential job function.

Water Damage Restoration

Water can cause structural and secondary damage that can wreak havoc on your business. For example, if you don’t have someone remove the water immediately, it can cause mold all over the area. That’s why a Water Damage Restoration Technician comes on site.

Applied Structural Drying

When the flood is gone, the job is far from over. Part of pipe burst cleanup is ensuring that the structures in the room get the drying and restoration they need. For example, the Applied Structural Drying Technician may see the need for a flood cut in your building. This type of restoration process keeps mold at bay even after the flood is gone.

Odor Control

If you have ever been in a home that has flooded, you know the musty odor that it can leave. A bad water cleanup job can leave mildew hanging around. This leaves a foul smell that simply isn’t good for business. An Odor Control Technician can keep this smell from coming around in the first place or make it go away if it has started already.

Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning

Another important element of pipe burst cleanup is ensuring that any affected porous surfaces are free from mold. An Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician can make sure this happens. These professionals in Cibolo, TX know how to properly clean fabrics to keep mold and mildew from growing.
With the help of restoration professionals skilled in each of these areas, your business will be quickly back to normal.

3 Tips To Stop Sewage Backup

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

Tree roots may cause blockages in your sewer lines.

Reduce the Risk of Sewer Damage

A sewer backup can cause extensive damage at a residence in Gonzales, TX. There are several measures homeowners can take to reduce the likelihood of blockages in lines, and it may also be possible to install specialized equipment to prevent flooding caused by an overflowing municipal main. Follow these three preventative tips to reduce the risk of sewer damage.

1. Only Flush Sewer-Safe Materials

Only toilet paper should be flushed down toilets. If a toilet is prone to developing clogs, a homeowner may want to select thinner single- or double-ply toilet paper. No other materials should be flushed down toilets or put down drains. Even moist towelettes described as being sewer-safe may result in blockages.

2. Use Root Killer To Prevent Blockages

Old sewer lines may be more prone to blockages formed by invasive tree roots. Homeowners can treat lines with a foaming herbicide once a year to eliminate growth and prevent a common backup cause. Avoid solutions that contain copper sulfate, an ingredient that may damage pipe materials.

3. Consider Installing Specialized Components

Homeowners may want to consider installing plumbing components designed to decrease the likelihood of backups. Consult with a plumber to determine whether a backflow valve, overhead sewer or standpipe could significantly limit the risk of sewer damage at a residence. A backflow valve or standpipe can be relatively affordable, whereas an overhead sewer is a more costly solution.

These tips may help to reduce the likelihood of a sewer backup. Homeowners can take preventative measures to prevent blockages or clogs from forming in residential lines. Depending on the condition of these lines, a homeowner may want to invest in a sewer cleaning. Specialized modifications can prevent flooding resulting from an overflowing municipal main. If a property sustains any sewer or storm damage, homeowners should rely on a residential mitigation and restoration company located in Gonzales, TX.

How Do Experts Clean Contents Damaged By Fire?

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire damage in Schertz, TX.

How Do Professionals Clean Contents That Have Been Damaged By Fire?

Restoration experts use a variety of treatments for contents damaged by fire or smoke. The best content cleaning method for any item or material will depend on its condition and composition. Hard, non-porous materials may withstand abrasion or immersion, while delicate textiles may be better suited to dry-cleaning. Learn more about how professionals treat content with different degrees of damage.

Charred Contents

Burnt or charred contents may or may not be candidates for cleaning. The severity of the damage and the durability and porosity of the material should all be considered. If cleaning is an option, experts may recommend one or more of the following treatment methods:

• Abrasion or blasting for durable, non-porous contents
  
• Immersion cleaning for non-porous items
  
• Ultrasonic cleaning for non-porous items
  
  

Immersion in the cleaning solution can be combined with the application of ultrasonic waves. This type of treatment is ideal for removing residues from ceramic, glass, metal, plastic, or rubber contents.

Smoke-Damaged Contents

Items with smoke damage are viable candidates for a variety of different cleaning methods. Restoration professionals will factor in the type of material and degree of damage before recommending one of the following treatments:

• Dry-cleaning textiles such as bedding, clothing or upholstery
  
• Foam cleaning materials prone to shrinking
  
• Spraying and wiping to remove smoke residue
  
• Wet cleaning durable materials
  
  

Electronics

Off-site cleaning and content storage are advisable for damaged electronics. Circuitry and other internal components may develop a black film that will increase the risk of overheating or corrode and become prone to short-circuiting. Specialists can remove build-up and determine whether an appliance or device should be restored or replaced.

Many items with smoke damage can be cleaned and restored. Burnt or charred contents or building materials may need to be disposed of and replaced. Residential damage restoration experts can recommend dry-cleaning and other content cleaning treatments after a household fire in Schertz, TX.

How to Avoid Coming Home to a Flooded Home

2/20/2022 (Permalink)

Shut off the main water supply to your home before you leave.

How to Stay Away From a Flooded House

Imagine coming home from a long, relaxing vacation only to find out that a pipe burst and has flooded your home. It’s not the “welcome home” gift any homeowner wants. You can avoid needing water pipe repair from a broken pipe by doing a few things before you leave:

• Shut off water supply
  
• Check your pumps
  
• Fix your gutters
  
  

These three steps can keep your post-vacation glow going a little while longer. Here is how to fully complete each part.

Shut Off Water Supply

If you can do so safely, shut off the main water supply to your home before you leave. This simple step can help ensure that even if a pipe breaks in the middle of your trip, you can avoid coming home to a flooded home because of it. If you can’t shut the main line off, you can go through the house and close individual valves. Don’t forget about exterior faucets!

Check Your Pumps

If you have a basement in New Braunfels, TX, you need to test your sump pump before you head out. Pour some water down the pit. Watch the water to make sure it goes out the way it should. If everything looks okay, you can feel relieved. If something seems suspicious, give a plumber a call just to be safe.

Fix Your Gutters

All the water pipe repair work in the world can’t stop all floods. Make sure to protect your home against floods that could hit come from a large rainstorm. Give your gutters a once-over to make sure they are in working order. They play a big role in keeping the water outside. Furthermore, you should consider adding downspout extensions if yours do not extend at least 10 feet away from the side of your house.

Doing these three things before you take off can help you relax while you’re away. You can avoid having a broken pipe, flooded home, and water pipe repair bills.

3 Steps to Take After a Pipe Bursts

2/20/2022 (Permalink)

Bursting pipes can cause all kinds of trouble and water damage in San Marcos, TX.

After a Pipe Bursts, There Are Three Things You Should Do

Bursting pipes can cause significant water damage in San Marcos, TX. Not only do homeowners need to fix a broken pipe, but you must also worry about salvaging belongings and preventing potential mold. Luckily, you can restore your home in as few as three easy steps:

1. Turn off the water
   
2. Call a cleanup company
3. Fix the pipe
   
   

That’s it! Pretty soon, that flooded room can be a distant memory. Here’s some further insight into each step.

1. Turn Off the Water

Before you can fix the damage, you must stop the water from coming through the pipe. In some cases, you can accomplish this by turning off the valve for the specific pipe. However, some bursting pipes require you to turn off the main water supply to the home. If the water is near any electrical outlets, you may want to cut off the power for that part of the house as well.

2. Call a Cleanup Company

Water damage from a broken pipe can cause all kinds of trouble if you don’t remove it properly. First, the water itself can cause floors and walls to become structurally unsound. However, even if you remove the standing water quickly, secondary problems, such as black mold, can cause trouble.

Mold grows because of the humidity in the room, so it can affect any part of the area, even if it looks like the water never touched it. That’s why it is important to call a professional company to restore your home.

3. Fix the Pipe

With the water out of the way, you can assess the damage and fix the broken pipe. For small breaks, you may be able to fix it yourself. However, more complex cases may require a plumber’s expertise.

Bursting pipes can cause all kinds of trouble and water damage in San Marcos, TX. Expedite the cleanup and repair process with these three steps.

What Are The Differences Between Mold "Removal" And Mold Remediation In Your San Antonio Home?

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth in your San Antonio home is not only unsightly, but it can also lead to health effects. All it takes is a small water leak or excess humidity to spiral out of control, and within 48 hours, you could have a case of mold damage on your hands. Fortunately for you, our highly trained mold specialists at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties have the industry knowledge, training, and expertise to manage your mold situation.  

How Does Mold “Removal” Differ From Mold Remediation?

• Microscopic mold spores exist indoors and outdoors, so it’s impossible to remove ALL mold from your San Antonian home. While it’s often advertised that mold can be totally “removed,” this is simply untrue. 
• Mold can be remediated, however, and when exposed to water, it can quickly grow into colonies. This is why it is imperative to address any sources of water or moisture before mold remediation can begin. 
• You can detect possible mold problem areas through their smell. Mold produces a strong, musty odor, and aside from mold remediation, our team is also trained in removing odors caused by mold damage and water damage. 

What Does The Mold Remediation Process Look Like In Nashville? 

• While every mold remediation process is different, there are a few key steps that remain the same. The first step is to contact us! We are the mold damage experts, and our representative will ask a series of questions to make sure we have a complete understanding of your situation, so the mold mitigation process is as seamless as possible. 
• Next, we will conduct an inspection and mold damage assessment to thoroughly inspect your property for obvious signs of mold. Although local and state laws may have a specific documentation process based on the size of the affected area, the general protocol here requires that we provide guidance on your unique mold damage situation. 
• Once we find visible signs of mold, we use several forms of containment to trap the mold and prevent it from spreading further. We may use advanced containment procedures such as negative air chambers and negative air pressure during the cleanup process. All fans and HVAC systems will be turned off during this process to reduce the spread of mold. 
• We use powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to regulate air filtration, which prevents the spread of mold while the mold remediation is in progress. 
• Afterward, we remove all mold-infested materials and begin content cleaning and belongings. We use fogging equipment to remove putrid odors caused by mold and disinfect your items. 
• Once we complete all these steps, the restoration process can begin. This can include minor reparations such as replacing the drywall, painting and installing new carpeting, or major reparations such as a full-scale reconstruction of various areas of your Nashville home. 

Here at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties, we care about helping out our local community as best as we can. Disasters can happen when you least expect them. Still, because we are a locally-owned and operated business, we make it a point to respond immediately when handling a crisis. Contact us at (830) 379-7474 and let us help you get through your mold calamities stress-free. 

Choose the Right Service Company With These Helpful Questions | SERVPRO® of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

Disaster preparedness is partially about stocking emergency kits and go-bags, and knowing where and how to shelter. But for homeowners, part of disaster preparedness is simply being aware that at some point you may have to deal with an issue that’s out of control, and knowing you’ll need to elicit help to see you through a difficult moment.

When unexpected storms or fires do damage at home, you’ll need to be able to make some quick choices about who you’re going to trust to handle your cleanup and recovery.

It can be daunting, especially when the pressure is on. Choosing a company in advance can save you from stress headaches, and even the potential of being duped into a bad arrangement. Here are a few questions to ask yourself.

Are They Legit?

There’s an unimaginable amount of scattered activity after a disaster, especially one which affects a broad area. Sadly, scammers and con artists thrive in this kind of chaos, seizing the opportunity to make a quick buck by offering a lot and doing little to nothing.

At the very least, you need to know that your service company is real and has a reputation worth promoting. At SERVPRO, we’ve made our name by providing the highest standard of excellence over a 50-plus year span in the industry, even opening doors for partnerships with top-level organizations like the PGA Tour. We’re no Johhny-come-lately setup; we’re the industry leader because we’ve put the work in and earned the business of millions of homeowners.

Will They Be There When I Need Help?

We’re suited up and fielding calls right now, whenever right now is. That’s right, 24 hours a day we stand ready to jump into action and take care of whatever the disaster may be.

When you click the link or make the call, you know you’ll be able to reach a team that’s close by and quick to respond.

Where’s a Fleet When You Need One?

SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties is based right here in Seguin & Cibolo, which is why we can serve you quickly and with the expert understanding only locals can provide. But occasionally even we need backup—that’s when we dip into the rich network of resources provided by over 1,800 SERVPRO franchises nationwide.

When something big is going down, we’ve got an extra supply of tools and teams ready to step in and make quick work of the day’s disaster.

When you call SERVPRO, you can rest easy knowing you’ve got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line.

When disaster hits home, contact us directly at 830-379-7474 to get our local experts and nationwide network on your side.

The SERVPRO Way

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

Serving others is at the heart of SERVPRO's vision to be the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world. Whether it's a home or business, SERVPRO knows that the most important job is helping each customer put their life back together.

Our number one goal is returning damaged property and items to preloss condition, doing all we can to help you regain control following a disaster. SERVPRO is dedicated to restoring both the property and the lives of the customers we help...

• Like it was never dirty
• Like it never overflowed
• Like it never caught fire
• Like it never spilled
• Like it never smoldered

Whatever the case, with SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties, our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened." 

With every flood comes a flood of emotions. A lot of time we meet our customers on their worst day. We know that you had the choice to choose anyone you wanted to help you with your situation. we take EXTREME pride in knowing that you chose us! If your home or business experiences a loss, big or small.. call us - you'll be happy you did! 

Commercial Services You Can Count On

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

Wondering how SERVPRO could help you and your business? Take a look at some of our commercial standard service offerings below. 

24 HOUR EMERGENCY RESPONSE SERVICES
- Catastrophic Storm Response

WATER DAMAGE SERVICES
- Water Removal and Dehumidification
- Mold Mitigation and Remediation
- Building Stabilization and Climate Control

FIRE DAMAGE SERVICES
- Smoke and Soot Cleanup
- Pretesting (For Best Cleaning Methods)

BIOREMEDIATION & CRIME SCENE SERVICES
- Vandalism Cleanup

FACILITIES CLEANING & RESTORATION
- Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning
- Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes, and Blinds
- Ceiling, Walls, and Hard Floors
- Odor Identification and Deodorization
- Post Construction Cleanup and Demolition
- Reconstruction and Construction Drying
- Specialized Media Blasting

CONTENTS CLEANING & RESTORATION
- Move-Outs and Contents Restoration
- Electronics/Equipment Cleaning & Restoration
- Art and Document Restoration
- Data Recovery
- Contents Claim Inventory Service
- Cargo Recovery (Trucking Industry)

TOTAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT
- IICRC Certified
- Mobile Command Centers
- Electronic File Documentation
- Online Data Reporting
- Mitigation Performance Validation

INVOICING
- Detailed Estimates and Digital Pictures
- Expense Reporting

Why SERVPRO Is Your Go-To For Commercial Restoration in Selma, TX

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

It’s tough to pick back up the remains left behind by fire, water, mold, or storm damage to your Selma commercial property. SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties is a trusted leader in the restoration industry, and we have the know-how and the advanced equipment to bring your Selma business back to life. 

Why Choose SERVPRO Of Guadalupe & Gonzales? 

• What makes us stand out from the crowd is our record response times! With over 1,700 franchise locations in the US and Canada, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. We know time waits for no one, and we make it so that we can take immediate action when disaster strikes. 
• Our highly trained technicians are experienced in property damage restoration. Still, we believe in continuous learning, which is why we have ongoing training. This is so our staff is equipped with IICRC industry certifications and the latest trends in the restoration industry. 
• With how boundless technological advancements have been over the past few decades, it only makes sense to incorporate the efficiency of technology into our processes! These advancements ensure that SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties can restore your Selma business back to its preloss condition quickly and reliably. Our specialized equipment includes water extraction equipment, drying equipment, moisture detection and measurement equipment, and antimicrobial treatments. 

How Does Our Disaster Recovery Team Help With Commercial Restoration? 

• SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzalez Counties’s Disaster Recovery Team is composed of the cream of the crop in restoration! Our handpicked specialists are prequalified and carefully placed across the US to handle disasters of all sizes and scopes. 
• To ensure prompt mitigation and seamless communication, every Disaster Recovery team is supervised by a Commercial Operations Manager. We also cut costs by the oversight of temporary labor. 
• We are available 24/7, 365 days of the year because there’s no telling when disaster can strike!

Being a locally owned and operated business ourselves, we know how tough it is to see your business affected by the onslaught a catastrophe can bring. Whether it’s fire damage, water damage, storm damage, or mold remediation, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties knows how to get you back to business! Contact us at (830)379-7474 and have us be a part of your commercial restoration journey. 

This franchise is independently owned and operated. 

San Antonio Mold Removal - What You Need To Know

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

Mold removal is a misnomer. While mold removal is ideal in theory, mold consists of thousands of tiny spores, microscopic particles that often can’t be entirely removed from buildings or surfaces. However, mold remediation is a process that we undertake at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties to remove as many of the microscopic spores as possible and to remediate the adverse effects of any mold growth you experience.

What do you need to know about San Antonio mold removal?

• In San Antonio, frequent storms and rain showers coupled with high humidity make mold growth reasonably commonplace. Therefore, minimizing the possibility of water damage and mold growth will go a long way toward keeping your properties mold-free.
• The mold remediation process should be started as soon as possible after it is discovered, as mold can cause health effects. 
• Mold remediation begins with an inspection and assessment of the damage before measures are taken to contain, sanitize, and remediate the mold-ridden area.

How does mold remediation work in San Antonio?

At SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties, our mold remediation process consists of the following steps. Keep in mind that each set of mold remediation professionals will do mold removal slightly differently.

1. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
2. Mold Containment
3. Air Filtration
4. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
5. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
6. Restoration

Have you discovered mold at your San Antonio commercial or residential properties? Don’t hesitate to contact the SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties team at (830)379-7474 for mold remediation services. We’re available to respond to emergencies 24/7, every day of the year. This franchise is independently owned and operated.

Why You Should Add SERVPRO To Your Emergency Contact List

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

Many forms of damage can severely impact the safety, value, and look of your home. One example is property fires, which, according to the US Fire Administration, caused a $14.8 billion loss for damages in 2019.

Such disasters can occur at any time without notice, which can leave you in a vulnerable position. Luckily, there are many services out there you can hire to help you restore your property to a safe, pristine condition. And if you happen to live in Texas, you might just be lucky enough to have SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties close by.

When you’re ready for our services, you can call us at (830) 379-7474. Below are several more reasons why you should add SERVPRO to your emergency contact list.

We’re Experts in the Damage Restoration Field

Since 1986, we’ve helped countless individuals with the restoration of their properties. For more than 50 years, residents of the San Antonio area have been seeking our help to restore their buildings after damages caused by water, mold, and more. We’re even well-regarded for our services in fire damage restoration.

When you add SERVPRO to your emergency contact list, you can rest assured knowing you’ll be in the good hands of industry professionals.

SERVPRO is Versatile

It’s true that we provide fire, water, mold, and storm damage restoration services. But besides these, we also offer quality cleaning services as well.

Sure, you can clean your own home. But when it comes to those tricky areas — air ducts, sewage, etc. — there’s no denying your life will be easier if you hire a professional.

We’ve seen it all, so believe us when we say we know a thing or two about cleaning the right way. You can even count on us to safely and effectively clean any biohazard material in your home.

Add SERVPRO to Your Emergency Contact Today

If you don’t have us in your emergency contact list, don’t wait another minute. Disasters can happen at any time so be prepared and be ready to call us.

In case of an emergency, you can reach us 24/7 at (830) 379-7474 or fill out our online form for a free quote. 

What Can Your Water Mitigation Do?

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO® of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties, our favorite word is YES! No one likes to be told no by a company they need work done from. But many don't realize just how much your Water Mitigation Company can help you. 

Your Average Mitigation Company

They assist with:

• Water & Fire Restoration
• Reconstruction
• Mold Remediation

Your average mitigation company can be a great help in emergencies listed above. But some commercial clients need a little more. They need a company who will say yes, whatever the request is. Is that your mitigation company?

SERVPRO® of Downey is your Solution

We assist with:

• Water & Fire Restoration
• Reconstruction
• Mold Remediation
• Contents Pack back
• Contents Cleaning
• Specialty Cleaning
• Biohazard Cleaning
• Duct Cleaning
• Odor Elimination 
• Debris Removal
• And anything else you can think of!

SERVPRO® of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties says Yes! If you're a commercial client with specific needs and a company to say yes, consider SERVPRO® of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties. We're here to help! 830-379-7474

Biohazard Remediation

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Biohazard contaminants should be considered very dangerous as they can cause serious potential health effects. Sewer backups and flood water are two common biohazard scenarios that can affect homes and businesses. SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore this type of contamination.

Need Biohazard Cleanup? Call Us Today – 830-379-7474

After any biohazard or sewage contamination in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious potential health effects.
• Flood water can contain sewage, pesticides, and other contaminants.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.

What to Do After a Contamination

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening.
• Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
• Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage.

What Not to Do After a Contamination

• Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don’t use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don’t use television or other household appliances.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

24 Hour Emergency Service

Biohazards like flood water or sewer backups should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties has water damage restoration specialists and has specific training and expertise to safely remediate biohazard contaminants.

Fire Safety Tips for Your Home

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Many home fires can be avoided if proper fire prevention techniques are in place. In this article, we will discuss some fire safety steps to implement in your home and prevent the need for fire damage restoration.

1. The first thing that you need to do is educate yourself on the different types of smoke detectors that are on the market. There are two kinds of smoke detectors on the market, ionization and photoelectric. Ionization smoke detectors are best used for detecting the smoke that is given off from flaming fires where the photoelectric smoke detector is best for detecting the smoke particles given off from smoldering fires. The National Fire Protection Association will tell you that most deaths in home fires are due to smoke inhalation. However, since each alarm is equipped to detect different types of fires, and there is no way to determine which kind of fire will break out in a home, it is best to purchase both.
2. You need to have a fire extinguisher in your home. If a blaze does happen to break out in your home, you are probably going to evacuate and not attempt to battle the blaze, but that does not mean you should not keep a fire extinguisher in your home. The fire extinguisher is like a tool, you want to have it and better it just sits there, and you never have to use it than need it and not have it there when you need it. Sure, fire extinguishers are kind of unsightly, but if you are stuck in a fire and flames block the only exit, that fire extinguisher is going to be the best-looking thing you have ever seen!
3. Every home must have a fire evacuation plan, and you need to practice it a few times a year, especially if you have children. There is nothing more tragic than a family escaping a home fire only to have a member of the family run back into a burning home because they think they are going to get someone who they believe to be still in there but is safely somewhere else. Make sure everyone in your family knows the evacuation plan from the home in the event of a fire and make sure everyone knows where the family is supposed to meet. Explain the value of staying at the meeting place and waiting there, and practice, practice, practice that plan.

If you are interested in learning more about fire damage restoration services call us at 830-379-7474

The Storms You Don't See Coming

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

In the restoration industry, many storm events can be a big ordeal for local franchises. A lot of times when the topic of storms is brought up most people think of hurricanes, heavy sweeping rainstorms, or an arctic blast. Most of the time these events can be forecast ahead of time allowing for many Franchises to prepare trucks, stage equipment, and map deployment routes.

But what about unpredictable events? Living in the South this can be an all too common occurrence. April showers can lead to unprecedented rain totals causing basement and sub-surface living quarters to flood. Those hot August days can bring monsoon-type 5 o’clock storms with damaging blowing rain along with tree limbs crashing down and toppling trees instantly wreaking havoc on homes and businesses faster than a lightning strike.

These phenomena are scenarios that your local SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties train and always prepare for. We are constantly keeping multiple trucks stocked and ready to respond to emergency services twenty-four hours a day seven days a week.  We make sure that any equipment that is not kept on a vehicle, is easily accessible to load on the appropriate truck. SERVPRO is always checking and rechecking that all equipment is in working and fully functional condition.

Last but not least, we here at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties are constantly keeping open lines of communication with neighboring franchises in case of a mass influx of damage to our community to help those in need of assistance.

To our fellow neighbors in our beautiful community, please know that here at SERVPRO we are #oneteam and we are #heretohelp

Get Thorough Fire Damage Restoration In Schertz by Hiring Expert Restorers.

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

You can depend on our SERVPRO teams to cleanup and restore your property and personal belongings after a fire takes place.

Reputable Restorers like SERVPRO Use Hi-Tech Equipment for Thorough Fire Damage Restoration in Schertz Homes

Property owners affected by fire go through a traumatic and terrifying ordeal, especially those who do not know where to begin. The intensity and ferocity of a fire can make you feel utterly fragile and can cause massive property damage and loss. To avoid more damage, involve professional restorers like SERVPRO for effective restoration.

How Fast do Restorers Respond to Customer’s Emergencies?

The more homeowners delay fire damage restoration in Schertz homes, the higher the restoration cost and chances of costly repairs. Our restorers respond to our customer’s emergencies as quickly as possible. We assess the damage and devise the most effective cleaning strategy.

Before We Begin Cleaning Smoke Residues, we First:

Identify the type of residues

Determine the type of surface on which the residue is present

Capture residues in solution or dry particulate form

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Fire damage, as well as water damage resulting from firefighting efforts, can add up fast. As a result, SERVPRO restorers can use hot water extraction that uses water pressure and airflow to agitate carpet fibers. Our restorers can use a powerful vacuum to remove the residues. 

Fire damage can be disastrous, particularly if it is left unattended for an extended period. Contact SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties for professional restoration. Call us today at (830) 379-7474

How to Get Flooded Water Out of a House?

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Home Flood Clean Up

The water from floods that are the result of a storm is considered Category 3--grossly contaminated.   This type of water is considered to pose a serious health risk to human health and shouldn’t be touched.  

The reason to categorize it this way is that as the water hits the ground, it picks up everything that is out in nature--including pesticides, oil from the street, and many mother unknown contaminants.  

So, if flood water is contaminated, then how do you soak up flooded water?  

How to Clean Up After a Flood

If you live in an area prone to flooding or Hurricanes, talk to your insurance company about getting the necessary insurances to make sure your property is covered.  

Many property owners are often caught off-guard by rising waters and are saddened and frustrated to learn that their insurance claim is denied.  Don’t let this happen to you! 

“Hurricane insurance” is actually made up of a combination of various types of insurance and endorsements.  Talk to your insurance company about:

• Homeowners Insurance
• Flood Insurance
• Windstorm Coverage
• Other endorsements you may need to be fully covered for the typical type of damage in your area 

After you have the right insurances to protect your property, then prepare your property to handle the possible weather coming your way.  Make sure your property has proper and clear drainage and invest in sandbags and other water-prevention tools to keep the water out. 

Even with proper preparation, water may still find its way into your home.  In this case, we recommend you keep the following in mind:

• Wear protective gear.  Wear protective clothing to protect yourself.  We recommend water-resistant overalls and nitrile gloves to start.  You may also want to consider goggles and an N95 mask. 
• Stay safe.  Don’t try to lift heavy equipment on your own.  If it’s waterlogged, it will be much heavier.  Also, don’t mess with compromised electronics. 
• Inspect your property.  Grab a mop, bucket, or a wet vacuum and start extracting the water.  If the water is more than these simple tools can help you with, consider calling a professional water damage restoration company to help.  They will have industrial equipment made to quickly extract water. 
• Consider where the water went.  Did it find its way behind your walls?  If the water is at your baseboard, there’s a good chance it’s found. It's now gone underneath it and has wet the insulation behind the drywall.  Wet drywall will have to be removed.  If your flooring is carpet or has buckled, it will also have to be removed. 
• Sanitize your property.  Wherever the water touched should be cleaned to kill any live contaminants and help avoid mold growth. 
• Dry your property.  Air movers and dehumidifiers help remove the excess moisture from your property.  Check for any wet spots around your property to make sure you know exactly where any hidden water is.  

Call for a Free Flooded House Clean Up Estimate

If your property has been affected by floodwaters, give us a call.  We have years of experience in the water damage restoration industry, and we have restored thousands of properties after every type of water damage.  Our technicians have been part of the cleanup efforts in:

• Local Cibolo storm flash floods
• Hurricanes, including Harvey
• Iowa Derecho storm of 2020

We accept all insurance claims and also work directly with property owners who are paying for the restoration themselves.  

Give us a call or contact us online anytime to set up a free water damage inspection appointment. 

Other Cleaning Up After a Flood Tips

Almost every water storm damage that is Category 3 will require some kind of repair or reconstruction for your home.  If you work with a professional water damage restoration company, ask them if they are full-service and if they’ll also be available to reconstruct your property.  Working with one company can save you the headache of managing multiple contractors.  

After flood damage, properties typically need repairs for:

• Drywall
• Flooring
• Cabinets

Choose a Trusted Storm Damage Restoration in Cibolo

We’re a full-service SERVPRO in Cibolo with decades of experience.  When we arrive to help you with your storm damage cleanup, we will be there for you 100% of the way.  We offer:

• Water Extraction
• Emergency repairs like roof tarping and board-up
• Drying
• Demolition
• Cleanup
• Repairs / Reconstruction

Call us anytime at (830) 379-7474 for immediate water damage assistance.  We’re Here to Help. 

Why Calling SERVPRO for a water damage is important

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage from flooding, leaks, or high humidity can not only compromise the integrity of your home and its contents but also cause mold growth. A mold infestation can occur quickly after water damage, making restoration more challenging. The presence of even a small amount of moisture in a building can create a large mold infestation if not handled properly.

Mold spores – tiny airborne particles that are not visible to the naked eye – exist everywhere in nature, and they can grow into visible mold after a water damage incident. A home infested with mold can cause health effects for the occupants. Those with problems of breathing caused by allergies or asthma can also suffer health effects from mold exposure.

However, you can avoid mold growth in your home if you act fast. All it takes is eliminating the moisture before mold has had the chance to start growing. But how quickly does mold grow after a flood or moisture problem?

How long after a flood does mold grow?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), mold typically grows 48 to 72 hours after a flood or water leak if the right conditions are met. However, it depends on the type of surfaces and materials, amount of moisture, and temperature. Indoors, mold generally grows faster on softer surfaces in darker, warmer (70 degrees or more), and more humid environments.

The chance for mold spores to spread from one area to another also increases with time. These microorganisms can quickly fill the air and spread throughout your home, affecting more and more areas with every passing hour.

Mold spores that start to colonize on surfaces within 24 hours become visible in about 18 to 21 days of the flooding. But that happens if nothing has been done to dry the water and restore the affected surfaces.

For these reasons, it’s essential to deal with water and moisture issues as soon as you have a flooding incident. The faster the cleanup and drying take place, the smaller the chances of major mold growth.

If you have had a flood or water damage in your home or place of business call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties - 830-379-7474

Can I Shut Off the Drying Equipment?

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Should you turn the equipment off?

An integral part of the water damage process is setting up drying systems. These drying systems aren't random placements of equipment but strategically placed for optimal drying. Equipment is essential in drying out the affected areas, but what if the noise is disturbing your peace?

Can I Turn Off the Drying Equipment?

You should refrain from turning off the equipment without consulting the lead technician first. These machines are necessary to dry out your home as quickly as possible. Turning them off can prolong the job and may mean they remain at your property longer.

In order to determine the correct amount of equipment to place, our skilled crews follow IICRC guidelines that determine industry standards.

A water loss doesn't have to a headache. Let SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties take care of it, we'll get your property looking "Like it never even happened." (830) 379-7474

Why Mold Smells Bad and What To Do About It

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

Are you noticing a musty odor in your business? Call SERVPRO for a mold inspection today!

Why Does It Smell Like That?

Whenever you walk into the storage space at your business in Schertz, TX, you might smell a musty odor. You know that smell means mold, but you wonder, why does it smell like that? A common misconception is that mold is smelly when, in fact, the mold itself is not what smells bad. Here are some facts about why mold smells bad and what you can do about it.

Gases

When mold has the right environment, it can grow and spread rapidly. Mold grows and produces spores, letting off gases that can smell bad. Mycotoxin is one type of gas that is released by mold that causes a musty odor. While most gases let off by mold are odorless, the mycotoxin that creates the odor indicates that you need a plan for remediation.

Cleanup

The size of the mold problem and the type of mold will determine how you handle the cleanup. A light coating of mildew can be managed with some detergent and a scrub brush, but actual mold should always be handled by mold removal and remediation specialists. Since mold spreads via spores in the air, improperly contained cleanup can actually do more harm than good. A professional cleanup team should come and assess the damage. They will take the proper steps to contain the spread by setting up a containment area and using HEPA air filtration devices to clean the air as they go.

Prevention

Mold prevention, especially if you know that you have an area in your place of business that is susceptible to it, is an important part of keeping your work environment safe. In addition to your primary work area, clean storage spaces often, and check for problem areas that could allow moisture to enter the building. Running a dehumidifier is helpful, as well as properly maintaining your HVAC system.
While a mycotoxin that causes the musty odor in your storage area does indicate a need for mold removal, there are solutions for safe mold remediation and prevention available to you so that you can keep your work environment healthy for you and your employees.

What’s a Flood Cut and Is It Always Required?

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

Flood cut performed in Schertz, TX

Flooding is always a disaster. Every porous item it touches is going to be damaged or destroyed – even if it’s a clean water line break. Even worse, if it’s a large flood, such as one covering multiple properties, the water should be considered dangerous. Floodwater can have a variety of hazards, including

• Sewage
• Chemicals
• Dangerous floating debris
  
  

Flood damage restoration experts in Schertz, TX, will determine the degree of damage to commercial buildings and decide what can be saved. The goal is to restore everything possible and replace when required. Tearing out walls is always a last resort, which is where a flood cut may come in.

What Is a Flood Cut?

Flood water can be nasty. If there is water contamination, everything it touches needs to be replaced. To achieve this, restoration technicians will cut out the drywall that’s been impacted by it.
To save time and money, they’ll leave the untouched drywall that's higher than the flood line in place, leaving a sharp line about 12 to 18 inches above the flood line to expose everything behind the wall below the cut. This is known as a flood cut.

When Is It Necessary?

Three factors are considered when examining wall damage caused by flooding:

• Is the water clean?
• Did it get behind the walls?
• Is there insulation behind the walls?
  
  

If the water has any sewage (also called blackwater) in it, they’ll have to tear out the portions below the flood cut, regardless of whether it got behind the walls. If the water is clean and did not get behind the wall, they may be able to fix the damage without a cut.
Clean water that gets behind the walls may sometimes be extracted without a flood cut. This depends largely on whether there’s insulation behind the wall. If there is, you’ll probably have to get a flood cut.

Flooding doesn’t have to be the end of your commercial property. Restoration technicians in  Schertz, TX, can often return the property to its previous condition without replacing everything, and a flood cut is often part of the process.

How Often Should You Clean Your Air Ducts?

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

If you notice your heating or air conditioning isn't performing as well as it should, contact SERVPRO for professional air duct cleaning in Cibolo.

When it comes to home maintenance in Cibolo, there are so many things to keep track of that it just makes sense to have a cleaning schedule. A dirty window or a smelly fridge reminds us that it’s time to get to that house cleaning we’ve been putting off. 

But what is dirty isn’t always seen nor obvious. Air quality may be on the decline because of dirty air ducts. How often should you clean your air ducts? In this guide, we’ll go over what all is involved with keeping air ducts sanitary, so you’ll know whether or not to include the cleaning of dirty air vents into your home maintenance schedule. 

Do Air Ducts Need to be Cleaned?

Like many peripheral issues in the home, unless a problem happens, air ducts and vents are forgotten about. While simply changing the air filter or using an air-purifying apparatus are common solutions to air quality issues, we should remember to check the air vents and air ducts too.

How often should you clean your air ducts depends on your situation. If you have ductwork made from sheet metal, the ducts should be cleaned every few years. Some HVAC systems can be harmed from cleaning, so it’s best to refer to manufacturer directives before attempting to clean the duct structure and its components.

How often should you clean your air ducts depends on the circumstances regarding symptoms of air quality problems and other issues.

How Do I Know If My Air Ducts Need to be Cleaned

How often should you clean your air ducts depends on certain issues that arise in your household. Some situations call for the inspection and clean out of vents in homes. We’ll go over these factors one by one, so you’ll know if you’re among those who should consider scheduling an air duct cleaning.

Vent Filters Get Dirty Too Quickly

The frequency of contaminant accumulation plays a role in how often should you clean your air ducts. Dust, pet dander, dead skin cells, and other particles carried by the airflow build up over time in the ductwork.

If you find yourself replacing air filters more often than usual (every three months) you may have an unusual amount of debris in your environment. This issue may lower the performance of your air system. 

HVAC systems are not supposed to clog up like this, so this could be a sign of an improperly installed system or an instance where it hasn’t been properly maintained. If you aren’t the first owner of the home, you may not have known of any issues with your system.

Unexplained Sounds Through Air Vent

Modern HVAC systems are whisper quiet. If you’ve been hearing strange sounds, this might be because there’s a blockage in your ducts, like a swooshing sound. While this wouldn’t be a clear sign of an air vent block, it could be additional evidence that there is a problem.

Frequent Respiratory Problems

How often should you clean your air ducts may relate to environmental health standards. Homes and care facilities that house those who are vulnerable to illness call for more caution when it comes to air quality. If there is reason to believe that the air quality is unhealthy, cleaning out build-up in the air vents is worth looking into.

Sudden Rodent Infestation

Homeowners sometimes find that they are not the only ones living in their homes as rodents gain entry through small holes around the perimeter of the house.

When feral animals get into your home, they are likely to destroy things. Rats will bite and claw at wood and wiring, but what’s worse is the waste they leave behind that ends up mixing with the air.

Because of how destructive rodents are, you should get extermination help right away because these pests will continue to create a health hazard.

New Mold Growth

Mold in the air is patently unhealthy. Mold spores love to live and thrive in dark places with plenty of moisture and cellulose material to consume. HVAC systems are one of the ideal places for mold to take root.

Be it the weather or something that goes wrong that causes water damage, mold can grow in air ducts and around vents. Cleaning the vents helps, but the problem won’t go away until the cause of the mold is dealt with.

How often should you clean your air ducts may come down to how susceptible your region is to mold growth. Mold has a distinct smell, and it adversely affects air quality. However, to confirm that you have a mold problem, you’ll need professional testing (and SERVPRO offers mold tests).

Spike In Electric Bill

Homeowners in Cibolo, TX may see fluctuations in their electricity bills. But what about those times when a bill is higher than expected for the season?

When a blockage causes inefficiency in your HVAC system, this means you’ll be wasting energy with a unit that is forced to work harder. To resolve this issue, a professional technician will look for leaky ducts and clean out the parts that are blocking the airflow.

Inconsistent Air Flow In Each Room

Central air is supposed to keep each room at the same baseline temperature. When one area is cooler or hotter than the other areas, this is a sign that something is wrong with your HVAC circulation. If airflow seems inconsistent, it might be due to a blockage in the ductwork.

How Often Should Air Ducts Be Cleaned?

How often should you clean your air ducts is not set in stone, but the consensus among professionals is that it be done every 3-5 years. The EPA says that air ducts should only be cleaned on an as-needed basis.

The following circumstances warrant air duct and HVAC system cleaning:

• Excessive pet hair and dander from a house with several animals.
• Presence of persistent water and moisture issues.
• Fire damage
• Mold growth
• When residents have special health concerns.
• After a home renovation, remodeling, or when taking over ownership from a previous owner.

There is little proof that your system’s efficiency can be increased simply by cleaning the ducts. A more comprehensive cleaning has a better chance of doing this. This would include removing build-up from cooling coils, fans, and heat exchangers. If key areas of the system are not cured, this means the system is vulnerable to re-contamination. 

If professional cleaning isn’t done right, it can make matters worse than if you had just left it alone. More dust, dirt, and other contaminants would be released in the air with inadequate vacuuming, or technicians may accidentally damage the ducts or the HVAC system.

As for air quality considerations related to seasonal maintenance, the EPA recommends that all fuel-burning furnaces, stoves, or fireplaces be inspected for proper functioning and serviced before the heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.

Contact SERVPRO for a Free Air Duct Cleaning Estimate

How often should you clean your air ducts is not very often. It’s usually done under abnormal circumstances.

The benefits of air duct cleaning are:

• Improved efficiency for your HVAC system
• Energy cost savings
• Lower humidity helpful for mold growth prevention

If you run into performance problems with your heating and air conditioning systems or encounter health concerns, a SERVPRO duct cleaning may be in order. We’ll carefully clean the entire system with the appropriate equipment (HEPA vacuums), and protect your belongings and HVAC systems from damage.

SERVPRO offers a free cleaning estimate for duct cleaning. We are equipped to handle systems in homes, apartments, schools, offices, commercial buildings, and medical facilities.

Call SERVPRO any time at (830) 379-7474 with any questions you have about air duct cleanings or to set up a time to get your free estimate!

Any Golf fans out there?

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Here is a little fun fact for you on this Friday:
SERVPRO is the official cleanup and restoration partner of the Pro Golfers Association (PGA). The PGA is the highest level of competition in the field of professional golf and SERVPRO is proud to be a part of their community. Keeping golf courses clean and pristine is optimal for comfort and high-quality tournaments. In past years, SERVPRO has been fortunate to show off our work and perform services for major PGA events such as The Players Championship and The TOUR Championship. We are always happy to help out our friends associated with the PGA because we understand a major draw for playing golf is the beauty and scenic environment a golf course can provide.

In addition to our partnership with the PGA, PGA Golfer Brandt Snedeker became the official our official Brand ambassador of SERVPRO last year. We are thrilled to have Brandt represent us because he stands for our core values and is an excellent professional golfer. Brandt has won several major PGA tournaments and is view respected by his peers. 

If we can provide repair, restoration and clean up services for an entity like the PGA, there is nothing we cannot do for you. We are always here for our local communities and can respond at a moment's notice if you need immediate repair, restoration or clean-up services in your home or business. 

24/7 Emergency Services, 365 days a year. 

How Can I Prevent Mold Growth In My Great Neck Restaurant?

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth in your eatery can put you out of business. Contact SERVPRO for mold damage remediation services to get your eatery up and running.

Inhibiting Mold Growth with Precautionary Measures is the Best Course of Action

Cleanliness is critical in any commercial enterprise, but even more so when it comes to the food industries. Mold can develop anywhere there is moisture. An extensive mold infestation means the possibility of the San Antonio restaurant being closed while mitigation takes place.

Is Mold Really in the Air?

Mold spores are everywhere, indoors, and outdoors. The spores are microscopic, and no one can avoid them. The spores themselves are not the problem. The problem comes when the spores connect with moisture. They can then spread rapidly, damaging your building and the content within. Mold can cause health effects. Qualified technicians should handle mold remediation in your San Antonio eatery.

What Precautionary Measures Can I Take?

Preventing mold growth involves being proactive. It is much simpler to prevent the spread than to stop it. Here are some ways your restaurant can prevent mold:

• Schedule routine cleaning.
• Throw garbage out on a regular basis.
• Check for water intrusions such as leaks often.
• Inspect food for mold before allowing it in the kitchen. 
• Seal open containers properly.
• Inspect for visible signs of mold regularly.
• Monitor humidity levels.
• Keep the kitchen clean and dry.

Professional Mold Remediation

The best course of action whenever you think there is a mold problem is to hire professionals. SERVPRO has qualified Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians (AMRT) who can diagnose the problem. They then implement the correct measures to clean your restaurant correctly. Our team uses advanced technology and equipment to detect and remove mold. Some of the methods we use are:

• Soda blasting and dry ice blasting
• Surface cleaning
• Sanding
• Antimicrobial and antifungal applications
• Controlled demolition

Do not let mold put you out of business. Proper remediation can have your restaurant serving up your customer’s favorite meals in no time. Contact SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties at (830) 379-7474for all your mold remediation needs.

Could Your Business Survive an Interruption?

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Is your business prepared to cope with business interruptions? Does your business feel anxiety when the internet is down? What if something more serious happens? Imagine that you walked in one morning and saw two inches of water on the floor. What would you do? As a business owner, it is vital to always be prepared for the unexpected. Fortunately, you are reading this blog, so hopefully you know to call SERVPRO the minute you notice water damage! How will you deal with this emergency quickly and efficiently? You need a plan - and our FREE Emergency Ready Profile(ERP) app gives you a foundation to start with!

Let’s say that you had a fire in your business and the stock inventory of the raw materials you use is destroyed. Let’s list out the resources that are needed in this event.

• 911 Fire dept
• SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties
• Insurance company with policy numbers (what if those files were damaged)
• Key personnel within your organization
• Landlord (if you rent)
• Vendors of the raw materials

You may also need other resources to be able to contact them about restoring services or repairing services. Within the ERP you can load the account mgr. and account number so that you have them pull up your records quickly and know what services you have. These would include.

• The Electric company
• The Water / Sewer company
• Gas company
• Internet service provider

The ERP is customizable, this allows you to place key personnel and contacts that you need all at your finger tips to call right away. These may include.

• HR director for your company
• Maintenance mgr.
• IT Mgr.
• Trades service companies you have a relationship with such as HVAC, Plumber, General Contractors.

This may not be an all-inclusive list here, but having the list of resources and their related account numbers / contacts will make for faster communication. This will result in getting back to business faster. The ERP app is available to have on your phone and or print it out and place right beside / integrate with your current operations manual or employee handbook. We don’t schedule disasters but we can be ready for them when they show up unexpectedly. Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties to schedule a walk through and ask for any assistance you need with the SERVPRO Mobile Ready App. 830-379-7474

4 Ways To Find a Shower or Bathtub Leak

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Visually inspect your shower for obvious signs of a shower pan leak

Four Things To Determine If You Have A Water Problem In Your Bathroom

Since bathtubs can hold many gallons of water, a bathtub leak can be a major cause of concern for a homeowner. If you suspect a leak in your bathroom, it is important to figure out where it is coming from to avoid further damage. Here are four things you can do to determine if you have a water problem in your bathroom.

1. Smell the Room
Excess water can lead to mold and mildew, both of which have musky odors. If your bathroom smells like an old carpet shortly after cleaning it, you could have mold or mildew lurking in your surroundings.

2. Look for Signs of Mold
Mold exists in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Regardless of the species, mold indicates a moisture problem and should be dealt with promptly. A bathtub leak can leave the floor moist, and mold can begin forming in moist areas in as little as 24-48 hours.

3. Inspect Your Shower Pan
Visually inspect your shower for obvious signs of a shower pan leak. If your shower pan looks fine, but you suspect a leak in the area, perform a shower pan test by plugging the drain and filling the pan with water. Check the water after 24-72 hours. If the water level is not the same as the original, you may have a leak in your shower pan.

4. Check for Symptoms of Water Damage
Water often leaves visible signs of damage. Common indicators of water damage include warped walls, baseboards, floors, and linoleum that is coming loose from the sub-floor.
As a homeowner, you will want to keep your home in as good of shape as possible. Since a bathtub leak can cause additional damage over time, it is important to fix any problems as soon as you notice them. A professional water remediation company can help restore your home to its pre-damaged condition as quickly as possible.

3 Essential Steps After a Business Fire

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in Seguin, TX

Three Steps To Take In The Aftermath Of A Fire

A fire can be very disruptive to your office in Seguin, TX. Getting back to business as usual as soon as possible takes a lot of work. You may need to deal with smoke damage, replacing equipment, and employee injuries. When you're dealing with disaster, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Here are three steps you need to take in the aftermath of a fire at your business.

1. Turn Off Utilities
As soon as you are safely able to, it is essential to get all utilities turned off to prevent further damage.

Gas and electricity should be turned off at the meter.
Water should also be shut off at the main valve if you are able to access it safely.
If you aren't sure how to do so, contact the utility company's emergency line for instructions.

2. Contact Your Insurance
You should notify your insurance of the incident as soon as you can. They can get a claim started right away and send an adjuster to review the site, take photos and begin to assess fire and smoke damage and other harm to the building. The adjuster can give you further instructions on what other steps you should take to ensure you protect your future insurance coverage and are reimbursed for the current damages.

3. Arrange Clean Up
Once you have the go-ahead from your insurance company, get started on cleaning up right away. Soot damage can quickly become permanent without the proper technique. You'll need to remove any irreparably damaged belongings right away and start a deep clean of every surface. If there is a lot of smoke cleaning to be done, don't hesitate to contact a professional for emergency restoration services.
The quicker you can get your business back up and running, the sooner you can financially recover. Make sure you take these essential steps to begin repairing smoke damage and get things moving in the right direction immediately.

SERVPRO can help with deodorizing fire damaged homes in Seguin

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke restoration is a job for a professional outfit. SERVPRO has the manpower and experience for any size fire disaster.

Odor Removal Services in Seguin.

In many cases, a fire can burn building materials like your walls and ceilings. After the burnt debris gets removed, there may still be some smoke remediation needed on your wall studs and roof trusses. 

When handling fire and smoke removal in Seguin, our SERVPRO technicians can take steps to remove any foul odors and smoke damage. If your wall studs, roof trusses, or flooring contain visible issues with smoke or soot, sealing can provide the following benefits:

• When conducting fire damage restoration, we can use a sealant on affected surfaces when burnt fragrances still exist.
• As a part of a house fire clean-up, sealing affected surfaces can encapsulate any malodor particles embedded into the exposed wood of your subfloor, studs, or trusses.
• We can utilize sealers that are alcohol or acrylic-based during fire restoration and are either clear or tinted. 
• Killz or the EnviroShield Odor and Stain Blocker are top-notch sealants used for smoke-related issues and other problems.

If you have a fire that burns building materials like your carpet, drywall, or ceiling tiles, call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties at (830) 379-7474

Two Tips for Fire Safety

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors are the best way of being alerted to a fire and surviving it. This is especially true when installed correctly by a licensed professional. According to U.S. Fire Administration, most alarms have a life span of 8-10 years so if you already have lived in your house for 10 years you probably should have it replaced.  Keep it in good working order by ensuring that it is free of dust and pest debris. Monthly monitoring companies will often times have a tamper alarm when you are doing anything around the smoke detector. Give them a call before touching your alarm, otherwise, you will be talking with them soon if you did not let them know ahead of time that you are testing or changing batteries.

Do you have a fire extinguisher? Do you know how to use it? Do you have the right extinguisher? The most recommended extinguisher for the home is a 2-1/2-pound Class ABC 

Class A - fires involving solid materials such as wood, paper or textiles.

Class B - fires involving flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel or oils.

Class C - fires involving gases. 

The recommended fire extinguisher can handle these types of fires however if you can’t reach any part of a fire with the extinguisher you should evacuate and dial 911.  Always be sure you have an exit at your back when fighting a fire, it should be a clear path to safety.

How to Care For Your Belongings After a House Fire

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

A house fire often brings destruction and leaves damage in its wake, and there’s a good chance that your belongings received the brunt of the damage. Caring for your belongings after a house fire may seem overwhelming, but there are a few things that you can do once you call the professionals, have the fire put out, and your house is deemed safe to enter again. Always, always make sure that your house fire is completely out and your home is safe to enter before even thinking about caring for your belongings post-house fire. Your safety and well-being are most important.

So, how do you care for your belongings after a house fire?

1) Coordinate electronic cleanup with professionals.

Under no circumstances should you turn on any electronics that were affected by your house fire. Any electrical devices or appliances may pose big hazards to you and your health if they were damaged in a fire since smoke residues may have caused their metal surfaces to corrode. Don’t attempt to turn on or operate any electronics. We advise you to leave the restoration to the professionals.

2) Approach contents restoration in a multi-faceted manner

Depending on the contents of your home, dry cleaning, wet cleaning, or even immersion cleaning may be in order. Our website nicely defines the different types of content restoration cleaning that you may need to undertake or invest in following a house fire.

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.
  
  

3) Take pictures of everything

If it’s safe for you to do so, take pictures of everything that was damaged in the fire so you can make the proper insurance claims and get them approved. Alternatively, a restoration team can do this for you in a safe, timely manner so that you have evidence of all the damage and it’s documented for any questions in the future.

For more information regarding caring for your belongings after a house fire, check out this page on our website. Our fire damage restoration team is always equipped and ready to come out to your home or apartment to take care of the damage and restore your property to its original condition. You can reach our SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties team by calling (830) 379-7474. This franchise is independently owned and operated.

What Should I Do When a Small Fire Leaves Behind Residues in My Cibolo Home?

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

For Fire Damage Mitigation and Help With Smoke-Related Issues in Your Cibolo Home Call SERVPRO

A small kitchen fire can cause you issues even if the flames do not burn any of the building materials or contents inside your house in Cibolo. Kitchen fires can often get caused by grease getting too hot while unattended cooking is taking place. Once oil or something you try to cook ignites, smoke can spread throughout your structure.

How can you tell if smoke has affected my contents and building materials?
During fire damage mitigation in Cibolo, our SERVPRO technicians always start the work process with a thorough inspection of your property. We can perform wipe tests where we wipe all of the surfaces of your house inside and out with a white rag to see if there are any residues present. After we find where all of the soot residues are, we can then perform test cleaning procedures to see which cleaning products and procedures work best on your specific types of smoke residues. Then finally, we can begin removing your smoke residues even if they are light.

What happens to my house if light smoke residues exist?
When our SERVPRO crew conducts the removal of light smoke residues, we find that the following issues exist:

    •    Light smoke residues exist usually when the area affected by the smoke is small.
    •    In most cases, when the residues are light, there is no structural damage present inside your home.
    •    Sometimes after a small fire ignites, the smoke residues in the affected areas of your structure are light or not visible at all.
    •    Even if your house gets affected by smoke residues that are not heavy, foul odors can exist near the source. But if the fire was small and we conclude that you have light smoke residues as opposed to moderate or heavy residue situations, then unpleasant aromas may not exist in sections of your building that are far from the source.

If you ever happen to have a small grease fire break out in your kitchen, it is wise to call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties at (830) 379-7474 to see if you have any smoke residues present.

Aiding Schertz Businesses with Storm and Water Damage Restoration

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Local businesses are the lifeblood of our Schertz community. Aside from keeping our citizens employed, each business serves a need in our city. So when a business is impacted by a major storm event, this affects the ability to serve customers and affects employee livelihood.

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties understands the challenges that other business owners are faced with under normal and extenuating circumstances.

We offer comprehensive commercial property damage recovery services so your business can be back to normal as soon as possible.

Full-Service Commercial Recovery

Because we do it all, we do it more efficiently. This saves our customers time and money. Our commercial property action plan is designed to scale so that no worksite is too big nor too small.

Secondary Damage Mitigation

On day one of recovery rollout, we work tirelessly to prevent further damage to your business assets. This includes:

• Board up
• Roof tarp
• Water removal
• Security fence (for large-scale and long-term jobs).

Customized Restoration Plan

When it comes to storm and water damage, no two scenarios are the same so every job should have a plan tailored to its unique set of circumstances. Each commercial damage restoration project includes one or a combination of the following:

• Water damage restoration
• Fire damage restoration
• Mold remediation
• Biohazard cleanup (including remediation for diseases like COVID-19 and C-Diff)
• Move out cleanup and storage.
• Carpet cleaning
• Air duct cleaning

Reconstruction

Our goal is to restore materials rather than replace them, but sometimes things are too damaged. In that case, we are prepared to do a full reconstruction with new materials. For example, a carpet that is too saturated cannot be effectively dried out. Trapped moisture is a mold risk, so the carpet and padding must be completely replaced.

SERVPRO makes it, “Like it never even happened,” by matching materials to the original so that it is restored to its preloss condition.

What Matters Most with Commercial Property Recovery

Our top priority is to minimize business interruption to the furthest extent possible. For those businesses that are forced to close, we work tirelessly to get you open as soon as possible. For those businesses that stay open, we work around operating schedules as best we can. Other ways we speed up recovery include:

• Advanced water removal and fast-drying methods including commercial dehumidifiers and desiccants.
• Project Coordinator dedicated to insurance claim processing, plus a Project Manager to keep everything running smoothly and efficiently.
•  Highly trained storm and water damage restoration specialists.

SERVPRO Stay Open 24/7 to Keep Your Businesses Open

Business owners have a contingency plan for everything, but storm and water damage is one of those things that get in the way of your business no matter how well prepared you are. We’re on call around the clock, every day of the year including weekends and holidays.

Partnering with other businesses in our community has been one of the most rewarding aspects of our decades of service in Schertz water damage restoration. Call us at (830)-379-7474  for emergency contact or a free estimate.

Storm Watch 2021: What Can We Learn from Winter Storm Uri?

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Our hearts break for those experiencing the storm in our communities

As many of us saw and experienced first hand, the Winter Storm Uri wreaked havoc on our state of Texas and even some of the surrounding states. 

Notable Updates:

• Heavy Snow Fall & Ice began to fall starting February 12-13th.
• Up to 9in of snow was reported, covering some 80% of Texas.
• Texas saw its coldest temperatures to date coming in at minus 3 degrees in some parts.
• This storm has caused millions to be without power and running water. 
• Many water damage cases have been reported as well as frozen pipes.
• Over 100 SERVPRO® franchises have been called to respond to over 10,000 calls for help.

Our franchise personally has responded to hundreds of calls as a result of this winter storm. We are helping our community members get back to normal as fast as we can. Even over a month later, we are still receiving calls from people dealing with the aftermath of this event. If you have experienced damage from Winter Strom Uri in Guadalupe or Gonzales Counties, don't hesitate to reach out for help! 

What Does the Winter Storm Uri Teach Us?

Winter Storm Uri teaches us a lesson in Preparedness. Texans may never have thought they'd face a storm so extreme. Were they prepared? Many weren't. The key is Preparedness. Prepare for the worst, hope for the best.

Preparedness doesn't stop the devastation, but it does allow you to have what you need when you need it. For residents, this includes food, clean water, & electricity. 

For commercial facilities, ask yourself: Do I have a relationship with my local mitigation company? If I do, do I have a partnership with them that would give us priority service? What emergencies are we prepared for? 

The answer to those questions could make or break your business! Don't hesitate, call SERVPRO® to help prepare your business for a disaster. (830)-379-7474

Schertz Residential Storm Damage Restoration & Repairs

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

No one knows for sure when the next severe weather event will hit Schertz, but we do know that we will surely see several storms every year annually - especially during the warmest months.

Every time a major storm blows through, we brace ourselves for the potential impact on our homes, businesses, automobiles, or even our personal well-being. While we hope that everyone is spared, SERVPRO is prepared to come to the aid of those who weren’t so lucky.

What is Secondary Damage and Why It Matters

The property damage you see immediately after a storm event can easily turn into more if preventative measures aren’t taken. When you file a claim with your insurance company they are likely to look into what done to keep more damage from happening. 

To protect your property from further damage from exposure to more rain, moisture, wind, and vandals we set up the following barriers:

• Roof tarps - Protects the exposed roof from water and moisture.
• Board up - In place of windows, doors, and walls that have been ripped out by storm damage.
• Security fence - For long-term and large-scale jobs.

We want to keep repairs to a minimum and we want to ensure that your insurance claims process proceeds without a hitch, so we are proactive in safeguarding your property.

3 Reasons to Choose SERVPRO for Storm Damage Restoration

Schertz and the surrounding areas are not short of storm damage recovery providers, so why should you go with SERVPRO?

Close to You

SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties is locally owned and operated. Because we are right down the road from you, we respond sooner and are closeby for return trips.

Full-Service Restoration

Your average storm damage site needs cleanup, recovery of materials, and contractors to rebuild what was lost. With SERVPRO you get all of these services in one unit. 

Our goal is restoration over replacement. We work tirelessly to recover as much as possible. Our Esporta Wash System restores fabrics and soft goods to preloss condition. Meanwhile, construction that cannot be saved will be rebuilt to match the original as closely as possible.

Work with Insurance

SERVPRO works with all insurance. We work directly with adjusters on your behalf to keep the process as easy and hassle-free as possible for you the customer. Because we have so much experience working with insurance companies, we know how to save time on the process so you get back to life as normal sooner than later.

Because we are a full-service restoration company that works directly with insurance, you have only one call to make. No need to keep a list of contact numbers as we assign all clients a single point of contact for all communications and updates. 

With SERVPRO’s Schertz water damage restoration you can expect a careful and complete recovery of your home. Call for emergency contact around the clock at (830) 379-7474

Why Is It Harmful to Allow Water to Evaporate Naturally?

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Call in the professionals for water cleanup, to avoid additional water loss in your home. Our SERVPRO technicians are available 24/7.

Quickly removing water damage helps reduce secondary damage.

This question is often asked by our clients in Guadalupe County, trying to decide if the water leaked onto floors and inside cupboards can just be allowed to dry naturally. Of course, they will mop up as much water as possible, but they cannot get into those difficult to reach areas, and soaked carpeting can take a week or more to dry on its own.

SERVPRO provides water mitigation services in Guadalupe County and surrounding areas. We also provide water restoration, fire, and storm cleanup and restoration services. Our team has been living and working in the area since 2009.

There are several reasons homeowners should plan to remove water and moisture as rapidly as possible. They include:

Mold infestations can begin to form within 24 to 48 hours of the initial water spill

Water penetrates particle board and pressed wood veneers causing permanent swelling and damage

Water also penetrates hardwood floors causing swelling and cupping of the hardwood planks

Carpets may delaminate, causing ripples, leading to trips and falls

We strongly recommend that all water, moisture, and humidity should be removed as soon as possible to mitigate further damage.

Why Does SERVPRO Use Dehumidifiers and Air Movers?

Our SERVPRO team evaluates every situation and implements a plan to remove the water and moisture from your home. Often we use vacuums to remove surface water, water extractors on carpets, and vacuum wands to reach difficult areas. However, there can remain a high amount of moisture in porous materials touched by the water. We use dehumidifiers and air movers to reduce the moisture levels further to dry the impacted area completely.

Dehumidifiers are placed in the room or rooms to dry the air

We position air movers to push dry air over damp materials and into cavities

Dry air absorbs moisture from carpeting, hard to reach areas, and from porous materials.

Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties for help with water mitigation and restoration of your home. (830) 379-7474

Beware of Secondary Water Damage

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

The funny thing about water damage is even if an area doesn’t look wet, there’s always a chance that the place where the water damage occurred hasn’t properly dried.

Once water damage happens, it’s important to call a professional water damage restoration technician, like those at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties, to get to work right away to restore the damage. 

The more time spent between the damage occurring and getting a professional on-site to restore, the less likely it is that we’ll be able to prevent secondary water damage. 

This can include: 

• Mold growth
• Electrical damage, 
• Corrosion of metal materials
• Wood rot
• Material damage of laminate or hardwood flooring 

A good rule of thumb to follow after any disaster is this: call a professional as soon as you are aware of the damage. The longer you wait, the more damage the disaster will cause, and the less likely it will be restorable. 

Our technicians are available 24/7/365 to assist with all emergency disasters. Call our office after your water damage to ensure it is properly dried and to prevent secondary damage. SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties is Here to Help. (830) 379-7474

Fire Damage Restoration in Schertz, TX

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

If you're facing the aftermath of a fire, call the professionals at SERVPRO for professional fire damage restoration services.

Professional Fire Damage Restoration Service in Schertz, TX

The aftermath of a structure fire is overwhelming. The losses are difficult to accept as you are surrounded by the destruction of personal items and the shelter itself.

However, accepting what is lost and adjusting to the circumstances is the only way forward. With an experienced Schertz fire damage restoration company working for you, you’ll be on your way back to normalcy.

For decades, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties has helped countless property owners recover their fire-damaged properties in Schertz, TX. We understand the hardships and adjustments that come along after a fire. We do our best to minimize the recovery time.

Who you choose to manage your property restoration is a major decision. We’re here on standby to take your call 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. SERVPRO is “Faster to any size disaster” and we do all we can to make the process efficient. Call us at (830) 379-7474  with any fire damage recovery questions and for a free quote.

SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration Process

After experiencing a major loss, you may be leery of placing your property recovery in the hands of a Schertz fire damage restoration company. We’re with you every step of the way through the fire restoration process and are transparent about all that is involved. To keep you updated and answer any questions you may have, we assign you a single point of contact.

A frequent question we hear is “What does a fire restoration company do?” We’ve put together this guide to familiarize you with how it works.

Phase 1: Fire Damage Inspection and Assessment

So what all is involved with Schertz Fire damage restoration? Fire and smoke damage restoration is about bringing the property back to its preloss condition. To plan out the process, we must have a list of everything that is damaged. 

We address what is beyond the surface of the obvious signs of damage to ensure that everything is recovered. This means we check the rooms and spaces adjacent to the affected area. Once we have all damage identified and itemized, we can begin the fire remediation work.

Phase 2: Board-Up and Roof-Tarp

SERVPRO is prepared to get started on the work immediately, but we may not be able to start until we have authorization (for example, from the insurance adjuster). 

Fire damage often leaves the property vulnerable to secondary damage from rain, vandalism, or theft. Imagine shattered windows, gutted walls, or holes in the roof left unguarded for several weeks.

We board up and tarp these areas to create temporary protection. Insurance companies may want to know what was done to prevent additional damage, and board up and tarping is a proactive safeguard.

Phase 3: Water and Smoke Removal

When people think of fire damage, they usually imagine singed corners and piles of ash. So why would there be water damage too? 

Fire sprinklers dispense 8-24 gallons of water per minute and a firehose dumps 50-125 gallons per minute, and this leaves behind water damage.

We eliminate damaging water and moisture with high-powered extraction machines, dehumidifiers, and air circulation acceleration. Lingering moisture will lead to mold growth, so the job is not done until everything is completely dry.

Fire damage leaves behind damaging soot, messy ash, and a strong odor. We use advanced techniques, specialized equipment, industrial cleaners, and air scrubbers to eliminate all remnants of smoke damage.

Phase 4: Fire Damage Restoration

Our goal is to restore rather than replace. We’ll clean, disinfect, and sanitize all that can be recovered, including personal items.

One way we recover personal property is with our Esporta Wash System. We place contaminated soft goods into the machine for thorough fire cleanup. Once these items have been processed, they will have achieved food grade cleanliness.

What cannot be restored will be rebuilt and replaced. We’ll replace drywall, wooden construction, paint, and put in new carpet. Our Schertz reconstruction services will do whatever it takes to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Damaged Contents Restoration Service

Looking over all that has been severely damaged by fire, you may wonder how any of it could be recovered. Is it all bound for the dumpster? Not necessarily. Our Schertz Fire damage restoration services use a variety of techniques to restore your possessions.

Documents Restoration

While we may not be able to bring photos and documents back to their original condition, we can salvage the items for safekeeping.

Types of materials we restore:

• Paper documents
• Books and magazines
• Manuscripts and files
• Photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
• X-rays
• Blueprints and maps
• Parchment

One of our most effective techniques is also used by Library of Congress historians. We use a vacuum freeze-drying process which is the only document preservation method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA). We also sterilize the documents using gamma irradiation technology.

Digitizing allows you to have a copy of the original when its present quality is perishable. We’ll scan and store your items in a confidential manner to protect your privacy.

Below is a complete list of document recovery methods our technicians use:

• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Furniture Restoration

We understand that furniture purchases are a major investment. The cost of a new set of furniture is considerable, and antique furniture is irreplaceable. 

The first thing we do is separate the legs of furniture from contact with harmful elements (such as wet carpet).

We’ll apply the most appropriate remedy for each piece of furniture. We disassemble the furniture to give each component a thorough cleaning.

• Dry cleaning - Clean light residue from furniture surface or as a pre-treatment prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet cleaning - Removes moderate to heavy residues from the furniture.
• Spray and wipe - Used on furniture that would be damaged from too much exposure to water/soaking.
• Foam cleaning - Cleans upholstery fabrics would shrink or bleed from water-based cleaning.
• Abrasive cleaning - Agitation of the surface for stubborn soiling.
• Immersion cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of an industrial cleaning product.

Electronics Restoration

Some might guess that dusting the ashes off electronics is enough to clean them. The truth is that residue from smoke is acidic and corrosive to the electronic components over time.

We advise you not to attempt to turn on or use electronics that have been in a structure fire. Let the professionals clean these up for you so they can be saved. SERVPRO will carefully restore your televisions, DVD players, computers, etc. with our expert electronic fire damage cleaning techniques.

How Much Does it Cost to Restore Fire Damage in Schertz?

The average cost of Schertz fire damage restoration is $13,730 (while the national average is $13,566). 

Factors include:

• Square footage of the damage.
• Depth of the damage.
• How much soot and smoke damage.
• How much water damage.
• Reconstruction

Keep in mind that the figures mentioned above are industry averages for fire damage restoration companies and do not necessarily reflect SERVPRO’s pricing structure. To get an idea of what we would charge, please contact SERVPRO directly for pricing information.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Fire Restoration?

Most homeowner insurance policies do provide coverage for structure fire damage. Some may cover expenses for temporary relocation. Be sure to save proof of your expenses such as receipts for lodging and new clothing.

If you’ve been living in a house for many years, you’ve likely forgotten what level of coverage you secured. To refresh your memory, it’s a good idea to set up a meeting with your insurance agent to go over your coverages prior to any fire event. Ask about deductibles and how much coverage levels for personal property and temporary relocation. You may need to increase your coverage or initiate a new policy with another company that offers more benefits.

We work with your insurance company to make the process as efficient as possible. Because of our great reputation, SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many major insurance carriers.

Does Fire Damage Affect HVAC systems in Schertz?

During a structure fire, smoke and soot travel into the ducts of your HVAC system, even when the system is not running. Aside from being a health hazard, the soot and smoke damage warps the ductwork.

Schertz fire damage restoration addresses the HVAC system with a full inspection, cleaning, and sealing. This resolves many climate control and air quality issues caused by the fire damage. Our goal is to keep your environment comfortable and healthy by ensuring that your HVAC system’s life is not shortened by this unfortunate event.

Certified Schertz SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration Service Ready 24/7

Fire damage is one of the most unfortunate things to happen to a home or business. You’re surrounded by loss and destruction. We understand the stress that comes with fire events. Our team of Schertz professional fire restorers is here to pick up the pieces and get you back to your normal life as soon as possible.

When you hire SERVPRO for fire damage restoration services, you will have a single point of contact and we will communicate with your insurance company on your behalf. This makes the process efficient and reduces stress for the property owner. Call us today to get started on your fire damage restoration process. We’re available 24/7 year-round for emergency contact at (830) 379-7474

How to Restore Your Belongings After Water Damage

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Water in home settings can be devastating, whether from leaking pipes or backed-up drains or toilets. While there may be nothing you can do to prevent your items from becoming waterlogged in the event of an unexpected water leak, there are some things you can do to restore your belongings after water damage occurs. Here are a few ways you can clean up various items in your Schertz, TX home.

1. Separate Items

Before you officially begin the cleanup process, separate your items into those that are porous and nonporous. Porous materials may include wood, paper, rugs, and other types of fabric. Generally, these are more likely to harbor mold and bacteria from broken pipe water, so it’s essential to clean them quickly. Nonporous items are usually much easier to clean since they don’t absorb water and are less likely to harbor bacteria and mold.

2. Dry-Clean Nonporous Items

Dry cleaning may be appropriate when removing light water residue from nonporous items in your home. Items can also be dry cleaned before floor restoration professionals come in and thoroughly clean your items. 

3. Air-Dry When Appropriate

If you’re not dealing with dangerous water, such as sewage, it may be appropriate to gently air-dry most of your belongings. If possible, do so indoors unless the weather outdoors is ideal. You can increase the airflow inside your home using open windows, air conditioners, and fans. 

4. Toss Dangerous Items

Depending on the nature of floodwater in home settings, it may be dangerous to keep saturated items. If there is a high likelihood of the floodwater containing harmful bacteria, it may be best to throw away contaminated objects. In other cases, professionals may be able to safely clean and salvage some of your valuables. 

While you may be able to clean some of your belongings that water has damaged in your home, safety should always be your top priority, whether you’re dealing with a broken pipe or a sewer backup. It’s best to wait for professional help to arrive for help with dry-cleaning or salvaging contaminated items. Call  SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties for additional information regarding water damage. (830) 379-7474

SERVPRO Responds to Record Breaking Winter Storm in Texas

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Have Water Damage From the Storm? Call Us (830) 379-7474

As a major Winter Storm Warning went into effect early Valentine’s Day weekend, Texas settled in for what was expected to be a long and cold week of record-breaking temperatures.

With almost 2 million residents losing power and multiple businesses closed due to dangerous road conditions, the White House had officially declared a state of emergency over Texas. Rolling blackouts and empty grocery stores cast an eerie, almost apocalyptic spell over the usually warm and sunny climate the state is known for. Amidst unprecedented times, Winter Storm Uri was as singular in its effects as it was harsh in its weather.

Although Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties reached a new record low temperatures, the real danger lied in power outages that shut down homes and businesses for hours at a time making it extremely difficult for residents to keep warm in the midst of what had already proven to be a historic event.

Rising up to the challenge, the crews of SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties have been responding to countless calls from home and property managers regarding water damages caused by burst pipes. Our trained technicians have slushed through several inches of water to find collapsed ceilings, ruined furniture, and buckled flooring that have forced residents into the homes of friends and neighbors. Though this event was uncommon, this is what we have been trained for.

As a result of the record-breaking number of people who have been affected, SERVPRO franchises from across the country have mobilized crews and equipment to assist in the restoration and reconstruction of properties that have been damaged throughout the state of Texas and in the south central United States. This is what sets SERVPRO apart — when you call us, you get access to over 1,700 franchises who are ready to respond to disasters at this scale.

Winter Storm Uri was unprecedented and unlike anything we could have expected. However, we are grateful to our crews and our SERVPRO franchise teams who have once again looked into the face of disaster and got to work. While this storm has certainly exposed areas of weakness that must be addressed in regards to infrastructure and planning, it has also revealed the depth of commitment and strength that flows through the SERVPRO system. There’s a reason why tens of thousands of people have called us to restore the damage from their homes and businesses: because we show up.

You can rest knowing that no matter how large a disaster may be, your local SERVPRO franchise, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales has the full force of the SERVPRO system behind them, ready to take on any size disaster. If you are dealing with the aftermath of this severe winter storm, please call our team to receive help. (830) 379-7474

Save Money on Insurance with SERVPRO

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Lenders require insurance on your car and home to safeguard the money they have lent you. So, what factors can affect insurance costs, and how does SERVPRO help? Insurance is purchased to save money in the event of sudden and accidental damage. SERVPRO differs from other mitigation companies because we work hard to salvage items that can be restored, without replacing them. By doing this, we can save you money and ensure a good experience for the insurance company. We aim for you to pay only your deductible to return your home or office to its preloss condition. 

The cost of your insurance and even your taxes can differ depending on where you live. Luckily there are over 1,700 SERVPRO franchise locations nationwide. Coastal homes see more storms and see increased insurance costs. With SERVPRO’s storm training and technology, we can help to reduce downtime for businesses and costs of replacement. The distance to the nearest fire station and the amount of equipment and the rating of the firehouse can also influence how much your insurance will cost. If you suffer a fire loss our team can repair the damage and control the odor. Restoring the affected areas of your property is substantially less costly than demolishing and replacing building materials and furnishings.

The age of the building can affect your insurance and the work to be done should you suffer a water or fire loss. We have to consider the age of the house to deal with lead paint and asbestos. Normally if your house was built before 1978 there is a good chance it has lead paint. Asbestos was commonly used in homes built before 1979. 

Remodeling your home can also have effects on the insurance premiums you pay. But, when a demo of the shower reveals a slow leak and mold, having SERVPRO remediate mold the right way, can protect your investment. Insurance will not help on claims where the cause was an ongoing issue or where maintenance was deferred. Having it done right will affect the value of your home in a positive direction.

We work with your insurance company, offering competitive advantages. Our goal is to restore the property and your peace of mind through timely mitigation and adherence to IICRC standards. This will leave both you and the insurance agent with confidence that the job was done right. Through training, technology, and our relationships with national insurance carriers you can be assured that we will save you money and the job will be done right.

If you have a claim or need our services call us directly at 830-379-7474

How Can SERVPRO Help During Covid-19?

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

There is no doubt that this year has been tough on everyone. The term “unprecedented times,” as well as phrases like “uncertain” and “strange times” have appeared frequently in the media to describe this year. Given the increasing number of COVID cases in Texas, it is not hard to see why that is the case..  However, we hope that you can take comfort knowing that we are Here to Help clean and disinfect your home or office should you need it.

At SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties, we have been on the front lines since the beginning of this pandemic. We have disinfected numerous homes and businesses over the past year, helping to keep the communities we know and love safe. Our expertly trained staff have a full understanding of the protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and use approved EPA products to clean and disinfect against COVID-19. 

Biohazard cleaning, as well as pathogen cleaning, are services we have offered for decades. This is a line of work we have years of experience and training in - so you can trust that we will deliver a thorough and complete job. Standard janitorial services do not deal with biohazards in the workplace routinely. That is why you should call the experienced and well-equipped staff of SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties to keep you and your loved ones safe. We will consult with you to learn about your workspace or home and create a unique and individualized course of action.  We will clean according to the agreed-upon plan, closely following CDC protocols and using EPA approved products. We will certify that we have completed those protocols and leave you with branding and collateral that will give your employees and customers the confidence to visit your establishment, knowing that it is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Whether you want to do something proactively for your business or you have had an active case of COVID-19 on-site, the professionals of SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties can help during these unprecedented, uncertain, and strange times. 

Call us directly at 830-379-7474

Should You File a Water Damage Claim?

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

This customer attempted to dry their carpet by themselves before calling SERVPRO to help.

As you know, acting quickly when you spot water damage is essential. However, you might be wondering if you should file an insurance claim or pay for the damages yourself.  “It was just a little water,” is a subjective thought. No matter the amount of water, it is always in your best interest to have a professional company assess the property. There are two reasons for this. The first being that you might not always see the extent of damage that has occurred. While you might have mopped up and removed the excess water from your kitchen floors, that doesn’t mean that water hasn’t already traveled underneath your flooring or into other areas such as your cabinets or walls. If those areas are not properly dried and remediated then down the line you might face problems such as mold and rot. If you did not act fast and delayed maintenance and cleanup, then your insurance company might find you to be negligent and there is a risk that the claim will not be covered.  Most insurance policies will cover water damage that is sudden and accidental. In most circumstances, homeowners’ policies exclude losses that are considered to be continuous and took place over an extended period of time. Examples of this include a leaking water line, or leaving wet carpet and baseboard unattended to the point of mold or rot.

Before filing a claim, if you are unsure if the damage will exceed your deductible, you will want to ask us to come out and assess the property. Our project managers will be able to consult with you and let you know the best course of action going forward. If you do have to file a claim, then it helps to strengthen your case if the insurance company knows that a SERVPRO professional has already been on site. In the event of a covered loss, insurance adjusters are grateful that SERVPRO is on the scene quickly to prevent further damage. We will also be an advocate for you to ensure that your property is restored to a preloss condition.

What to Know Before Filing a Claim

1. What Perils Are Covered in Your Policy? 

This will be important depending on the source of the loss. If you took the less expensive policy you may not have sewer backup as a rider on your policy and may not be covered in that case. So, knowing what is and is not covered is important. If you are not aware of the source of the loss, there is no need to fret. SERVPRO professional technicians have state of the art technology and training to determine the cause of a loss.

2. What is Your Deductible? 

It is practical that you may not want to file a claim if the cost of mitigation and restoration is less than double your deductible.  Insurance is there to protect you from major losses and your deductible represents the amount of risk you’re willing to take. We will work with you to treat the damage whether you chose to go through insurance or not. Our commitment is to ensure that this is your only out of pocket expense to return the property to a preloss condition.

This is just another reason to quickly call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties to handle your water damage. Whether it is covered or not we can help with water damage.

Call us directly at 830-379-7474

What Does It Take to Restore My Home After a Fire?

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO be the company to handle all of your fire damaged home issues.

Call SERVPRO to Return Your Schertz Home to Its Pre-Loss Condition

The majority of home fires in Schertz, Texas start in the kitchen. The physical damage to structure and contents often remains in that part of the house the fire originated in, but surfaces in other parts of the home might be covered by soot particles left behind by smoke as the fire cools or have a strong residual odor.

Why SERVPRO? I can wipe down my walls and DIY my kitchen.

Even if the fire damage in your Schertz home is minor, it still needs professional restoration. Our company has access to chemical cleaners and cleaning equipment not available to homeowners. Our technicians can remove soot from glass coffee tables, wall paneling, upholstered furniture, and even many types of clothing and fabric materials.

Cleaning is great, but what about the burned appliances and scorched tiles?

SERVPRO team members can demolish and remove all burned material without spreading soot into other parts of your home. Specialists can replace everything from linoleum to ceiling panels, install new appliances, and finish everything off with a new coat of paint so your kitchen looks exactly as it did before the fire, “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO has the ability to completely remodel your kitchen if you would like.

To learn more about how we can restore your home, call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties today at 830-379-7474. We are here for you.

Why Is it Harmful to Let Water Evaporate Naturally?

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Call in the professionals for water cleanup, to avoid additional water loss in your home. Our SERVPRO technicians are available 24/7.

Removing Water Quickly Helps Reduce Secondary Damage

This question is often posed by our clients in Schertz: Is water that has leaked onto floors and into cupboards just going to dry out by itself? Of course, they will remove as much water as possible, but they can’t absorb any that is inaccessible or that saturates carpeting, and it can take a week or more for carpeting to dry on its own.

SERVPRO provides water mitigation services in Schertz and the surrounding areas. We also provide water restoration, fire, and storm cleanup and restoration services. Our team has been living and working in the area since 2009.

There are several reasons homeowners should prioritize removing water and moisture rapidly. They include:

• Mold growth can begin within 24 to 48 hours of the initial water presence.
• Water rapidly seeps into particle board and even pressed wood veneers causing irreversible warping and damage.
• Water can also penetrate hardwood floors causing swelling and cupping of the hardwood planks.
• Carpets may delaminate, causing ripples that can lead to trips and falls.

We strongly recommend that all water, moisture, and humidity should be removed as soon as possible to mitigate further damage.

Why Does SERVPRO Use Dehumidifiers and Air Movers?

Our SERVPRO team evaluates every situation and implements a plan to remove the water and moisture from your home. Often we use vacuums to remove surface water, water extractors on carpets, and vacuum wands to reach difficult areas. However, there can a high amount of moisture can remain in porous materials that were touched by the water. This is why we use dehumidifiers and air movers to reduce the moisture levels further to dry the impacted area completely.

Dehumidifiers are placed in the room or rooms to dry the air.

We position air movers to push dry air over damp materials and into cavities.

Dry air absorbs moisture from carpeting, hard to reach areas, and from porous materials.

Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties 830-379-7474 for help with water mitigation and restoration of your home.

Types of Commercial Cleaning Services in Schertz

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers many types of commercial cleaning services, including enhanced janitorial service and sanitization. Call for a free estimate.

The need for cleaning and sanitization at commercial properties is now a greater concern than ever. A clean and sanitary environment provides a sense of security to anyone who steps foot in your facility. Employees working there as well as any customers visiting need to feel confident that the environment they’re entering is safe.

As expectations of what “clean” means are elevated, basic janitorial services are no longer good enough.  Today, workers and consumers are demanding a higher level of cleanliness. 

Enhanced Janitorial Commercial Cleaning Services in Schertz, Cibolo, and Seguin

SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties specialized in biohazardous and deep cleaning before COVID-19 was an everyday worry for our community.  We routinely performed:

• Bloodborne Pathogen Cleanup
• Crime Scene Cleanup
• Infectious Disease Cleanup
• Homicide and Murder Cleanup
• Unattended Death and Suicide Cleanup

When Coronavirus arrived in Texas, our biohazard cleanup technicians were already trained and prepared to handle the virus.  We combined the same, effective techniques we had been using for years with the appropriate EPA-registered disinfectant.  Within days, our franchise was serving:

• First Responders in Schertz, Cibolo, Seguin, Nixon and More
• Local Municipalities in Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties
• Essential Businesses, including Shipping, Crucial Manufacturing, Car dealerships, Restaurants, Schools, and Nursing Homes.

Since March of 2020, we have cleaned and sanitized thousands of square feet after a positive COVID-19 diagnosis.  As of this writing, we continue to respond to calls every day, seven days a week.  

While we were cleaning instances with a positive diagnosis, the need and demand for proactive cleaning became a service nearly all of our customers asked us about. As a result, we developed our newest program - Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. 

Free Estimates for All Types of Cleaning Services

We offer free estimates for commercial cleaning in Schertz, Cibolo, Seguin, and all surrounding communities.  Call or contact us online anytime to schedule a specialist to visit your property. 

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Schertz

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is an enhanced commercial cleaning service.  A Cleaning Protocol Specialist visits each of our client's commercial properties and creates a custom, tailored plan that fits their needs perfectly.  

We take into consideration everything that matters to the success of our business clients, including:

• The most convenient cleaning hours to avoid business interruption. 
• Type of cleaning needed: wipe-down with a detergent solution and/or sanitization 
• Type of flooring. 
• Type of surfaces. 
• Trash removal. 
• Cleaning frequency: daily, weekly, bi-weekly, etcetera. 
• And much more

What each of our clients ends up with is a uniquely personalized cleaning program that will be executed the way they need it to be, at the right time, with the exact needs they have. Cleaning dates are pre-scheduled, billing is automatic, and our clients have no need to worry about their properties being taken care of from now on. 

Learn more about our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program here. 

The recurring commercial cleaning services we offer include any of the following. 

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

Commercial carpets typically get a lot of wear and tear on them, so keeping up with daily vacuuming is a must. Frequent cleaning can help extend the life of the carpet’s fibers, reduce dust, and may also help with indoor air quality. 

Eventually, even the best-vacuumed carpets will start to show symptoms of needing a deeper clean.  Depending on the frequency of the carpet’s use, we recommend carpet deep cleaning starting on a bi-weekly basis, although some of our clients have even chosen for weekly deep cleanings.  

Deep cleaning uses a carpet detergent solution and hot water to shampoo, wash and vacuum the contaminants in the carpet out. The result is a fresh-smelling, clean, and refreshed carpet. 

Commercial Hardwood or Tile Cleaning

Most commercial buildings have different types of flooring--usually, they have a combination of carpet, tile, and concrete.  We have the right detergents and machines for any type of flooring our clients have, including hardwood and tile.

Just like vacuuming is necessary for a carpet, moping is necessary for non-porous flooring on a regular basis. Less frequent, but still necessary, are waxing and buffing. 

Surface Cleaning and Disinfection 

There are two types of surfaces: porous and non-porous. 

Non-porous surfaces absorb liquids. These include upholstered chairs and sofas. These are cleaned by frequent vacuuming and then a deep washing when necessary. 

Porous surfaces do not readily absorb liquids, and these include most countertops. These are cleaned with a detergent solution and a wipe-down. Surfaces that are exposed to greases and oils may also need a deeper cleaning. 

Glass Cleaning

Glass is a non-porous surface, and some clients add this type of cleaning to their service list if they have glass doors or walls.  We use a specialized glass cleaning agent to leave a streak-free clean. 

Trash Disposal

All trash cans are emptied and relined with a commercial liner or bag.  

Commercial Building Sanitization

Besides cleaning, our final step involves sanitization of all surfaces--both porous and non-porous.  We use a proprietary, EPA-registered disinfectant that is safe to the touch.  

We’re a SERVPRO in Your Community

Our franchise was established in 2009, and we have restored thousands of properties in the communities we live in.  We have helped many of our neighbors in need of custom commercial cleaning, and we can help you, too. 

Commercial cleaning estimates are free. Call us anytime. We’re Here to Help. 830-379-7474

Does SERVPRO do construction?

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers reconstruction services. We offer free construction estimates in Cibolo and surrounding areas.

Yes, SERVPRO offers construction services. 

When we say we help make it "Like it never even happened,” we mean it!  We are a full-service SERVPRO in Seguin with both mitigation and reconstruction divisions, and we routinely help our clients get their properties back to preloss condition, even after extensive damage.  

Reconstruction services are typically needed after:

• Contaminated water damage losses.  When water is grossly contaminated, demolition will most likely be needed on portions of drywall and flooring. 

• Storm damage.  Depending on the type of storm, this can range from hurricane water damage to tornado cleanup involving broken roofs, windows, doors, and much more. 

• Fire damage.  Large fires almost always require some form of demolition in the affected parts of the property. 

• Extensive mold remediation.  When mold is allowed to grow for a long period of time, it will eventually begin to eat the substance it’s growing on.  This usually results in parts of walls needing to be demolished and repaired. 

Reconstruction Starts Immediately After Mitigation

We start working with our clients and their insurance adjusters before the initial mitigation portion of the restoration project is even finished.  The goal is to have the reconstruction portion of the project planned and approved so that our reconstruction division can begin work immediately after cleanup is completed.  

Our process results in faster claims processing and happier customers. 

Reconstruction Services

What your property needs to get back to 100% preloss condition is what we provide.  This includes:

• Drywall repair
• Flooring replacement
• Cabinet replacement
• Ceiling repairs
• Roof repairs or replacement
• And much more

After reconstruction is completed, we’ll also clean the areas we worked in.  Our post-construction cleanup helps your property be ready for you to move back in as soon as we’re done. 

Free Construction Estimates in Cibolo

Our construction estimates are free in Cibolo and surrounding areas.  Contact us today to schedule repairs and for a reconstruction manager to visit your property.  

Contact us today.  We’re here to help. 830-379-7474

How Long is the Drying Process for Water Damaged Homes?

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians use air movers to help speed up the drying process in water-damaged homes.

Water damage is the most common form of property damage with the various ways that it occurs. Regardless of the source, all cases of water damage require prompt attention to prevent further damage. But before any repairs and restoration can be performed, a few things need to be handled.

First, the source of the water must be determined. If water continues to enter your property, then more damage will ensue. For example, if a pipe burst caused damage, that problem needs to be repaired to stop more water from pouring into your home. After the water source has been addressed, prioritize water extraction. From there, the drying process can begin.

Displacement from your home is always unpleasant, but in certain cases, it might be necessary ? such as when your home has sustained significant water damage. When this happens, you may find yourself wondering how long the drying process for a water-damaged home may take.

On average, a water-damaged house will take approximately five days to dry.  However, the length of time it takes to dry could range from 12 hours to a couple of weeks. There are numerous factors that need to be considered to determine the drying time.

Read on to discover more about the factors that influence how long water-damaged homes take to dry out fully.

What Factors into the Drying Process for Water Damaged Homes?

The Extent of the Damage

In order to estimate how long it will take for your home to dry, we must consider the quantity of water involved in the areas affected. The more water there is, the longer it will take for your home to dry thoroughly.

For example, it takes less time to dry your home if only one room is affected than if all the rooms have standing water. 

Drying Equipment

The more drying equipment you have, the quicker the area can dry. However, the type of drying method can make a world of difference as well.

A standard house fan will take longer to dry an area than a high-volume fan and dehumidifier. This is why getting professional help from qualified water damage restoration technicians is beneficial. They have specialized drying equipment that can efficiently dry out water-damaged properties.

How Do You Dry Water Damaged Homes?

In an ideal situation, a combination of the following three drying methods will be used to dry your water damaged home.

Air Drying

This technique is simple, as you just allow the air to dry the materials affected by excess water and moisture present in your home. Usually, this method includes opening up windows and exterior doors to help improve air circulation and speed up the drying process. However, air drying is really only realistic for smaller areas with low humidity and lesser amounts of saturation due to the fact this technique is naturally more time-consuming.
Fans

Fans are a good way to dry water-damaged areas because they circulate the air to eliminate the moisture more effectively. The issue with using such equipment, however, is that it can also help encourage mold growth and its spread.

Mold is a common result of water damage because a water-damaged property provides the perfect environment for mold growth. If mold has grown in your water damaged home, then a fan can spread mold spores and allow the growth to affect new areas. Because of this, it is recommended your home is first inspected for mold.

Dehumidifiers

One of the quicker drying methods, dehumidifiers effectively eliminates moisture from the air and materials in the surrounding space.  They also cover a larger area compared to fans, making them ideal for use in larger spaces. The water just needs to be emptied regularly so it can continue running.

What Should You Do if Your Home Experiences Water Damage?

If your home has suffered water damage, then you need to act quickly in order to prevent the damage from worsening. The longer water damage goes unaddressed, the weaker affected building materials will become. Additionally, water damage will also encourage mold growth, which then causes its own issues. Knowing this, do not hesitate to seek help from a professional water damage restoration company, such as SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties.

Following your call for help, professional technicians will arrive at your home to start the water damage restoration process. Using advanced water extraction and drying equipment, your home will be free of excess moisture and thoroughly dried. From there, the damage will be repaired, and your home will be restored to a clean and safe living environment once again.

If you need help with water damage, call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties today at 830-379-7474

SERVPRO® Solutions: Matterport Scanning

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

The Matterport PRO 2 Camera is 134 megapixels and shoots with 3D accuracy using infrared sensors.

At SERVPRO® of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties, we pride ourselves in offering the best solutions for our clients’ needs. To accomplish this we are always seeking out new forms of technology and solutions to better serve our customers.

One of our latest technologies is the Matterport 3D Camera. The Matterport 3D scanning system allows us to capture a space and create a virtual 3D model. 

How It Can Benefit You:

• Virtual Walkthroughs - Due to COVID-19, many insurance adjusters and facility managers have suspended their in-person walkthroughs. The Matterport system provides us with the capability to share that space with them virtually, allowing them to view the property as if they were there in person.
• Insurance Claims - Using a 3D scan of your space may be helpful when handling insurance claims. It could show items and possessions that may be damaged. If you ever have a claim, it would be an invaluable tool in capturing the loss
• Measurement Tool - During a loss, we want to provide the most accurate information. The Matterport system uses infrared sensors to capture data. This data can be measured within the system to provide the most accurate estimate.

Can you utilize the Matterport 3D system? Most businesses can. For more information on the Matterport system, please call our office or reach out online.

Biohazard Cleanup in Schertz, TX

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Need Biohazard Cleanup Services? Call Us Today – (830) 379-7474

What is a biohazard cleanup?

Biohazard cleanup is a blanket term covering all the cleaning and decontamination work involving biological fluids and matter. There are a number of causes that could warrant a biohazard cleanup, otherwise known as biohazard remediation. Accidental death, unattended death, suicide, and crime scene cleanup are the most frequent causes that require biohazard cleaning. However, there is really no limit to the potential causes that may require a professional biohazard company to perform bioremediation work.

An easier way to approach the question is to take into consideration what needs to be cleaned. Any biological fluid (anything originating from within a human), including blood, feces, vomit, and more, are all potentially harmful if not properly disposed of. Common incidents that require biohazard cleanup involve death.

The process of cleanup is thorough and intensive because of health hazards caused by exposure to biological fluids. Our technicians are properly equipped with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as well as specialized tools to clean any biohazardous material safely and thoroughly. 

Examples of Bioremediation we have cleaned include:

• Unattended death
• Suicide
• Hoarding
• Trauma
• Pathogens
• Rodent infestation
• Crime Scenes

The nature and extent of the cleaning will determine the necessary steps in biohazard cleanup.

When should I call a biohazard cleaning company?

The affected area in a biohazard cleanup needs to be treated as soon as possible. Understandably, in the case of unattended deaths, this may not occur.  In many other situations, it is important to call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties as soon as possible to schedule a time for cleaning.  

There are a number of reasons you should call quickly. As biological fluids deteriorate on surfaces in your home or business, they begin to let off an odor that can quickly render the area uninhabitable. Biological fluids, such as blood, easily seep through cracks and holes, causing extensive damage. This makes the remediation work more difficult by the day. What one might consider a small issue can quickly turn into an odor that renders the area unlivable. The longer an odor lingers in the affected area, the more drastic measures will be needed to properly complete the bioremediation.

If you find yourself asking when you should call about biohazard cleanup, the answer is probably right now.

Why do I need a professional to handle biohazard cleanup and biohazard waste?

The longer it takes to get a biohazard cleaned, the more risk there is to anyone in contact with the site of bloodborne pathogens.  Biohazard risks are a major concern and the reason that remediation has to be done properly and professionally. In this case, out of sight, out of mind isn't safe. One cannot simply wipe or hose off the affected area and expect the issue to be resolved. In fact, bloodborne pathogens are more hazardous than you would expect. Every 1 in 24 Americans have HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C. These diseases, and the risk of exposure, cannot be taken lightly.

These bloodborne pathogens can survive up to 16 days after the death, meaning the risk continues long after the incident that necessitates a biohazard cleanup.  Because of such serious risks, our crews follow all safety protocols and contain, sanitize, and decontaminate all affected and potentially affected areas.

Our teams use specialized disinfectants and sanitizers to guarantee a safe environment after cleaning. Some materials and items are not safe to remain in the residence or building. These biohazardous waste items need to be properly disposed of in biohazard disposal bags. These bags are then boxed and taken for proper medical incineration disposal. Disposal of this material is required by law and is one of many reasons you need a professional to handle your biohazardous needs.

There are plenty of cleaning crews that might say they can take care of your bioremediation needs, but all cleaning should be handled by experienced crews.

We Are Here to Help With Any Biohazard Cleanups

When it comes to choosing the right people for your biohazard cleanup, there are a few things to consider.  You want to choose a reputable and experienced biohazard cleaning company. SERVPRO has provided this service for over 50 years and has technicians prepared to help. We have completed biohazard cleaning for all kinds of situations including crime scenes, trauma, and suicide cleanup.

With partnerships around Schertz, Cibolo, and San Antonio for safe disposal of biohazardous waste, our team at SERVPRO has the knowledge, experience, and resources to make your biohazard situation, “Like it never even happened.”

We understand that these calls are often the result of life-changing events such as unexpected and untimely deaths. Our staff is professional, patient, and empathetic towards your needs.

We know biohazard cleaning situations aren’t easy, and we are here to help.  

Our crews are available dispatch for 24-hour emergencies every day of the year.  We can be reached 24/7 at (830)-379-7474.  Call us any time.

Is Your Business Prepared for Storm Damage?

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties has experience restoring businesses affected by storms and flooding. We can respond immediately with highly trained technicians who employ specialized equipment and techniques to restore your business back to pre-storm condition.

Why Call SERVPRO® of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties?

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

When a storm hits your Seguin, Cibolo, or Schertz business, you need help immediately. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

Learn More

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As leaders in the storm and water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-storm condition.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians

Learn More

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

We can scale our resources to handle any size storm or disaster. We can access resources from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

Learn More

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (830) 379-7474

Fire Restoration is Best Left to Professionals, So Call SERVPRO to Address the Damage to Your Cibolo, TX Home

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let fire damage control your life! Call SERVPRO today 830-379-7474

There are countless reasons to call in the help of trained restoration technicians after a fire in your Cibolo, Texas home. For example, smoke and soot bring on foul odors that linger past the fire-loss zone and call for specialized techniques to rid your interior of them. Additionally, the only way you can ensure you salvage the most materials and belongings is by having specialized cleaning methods and the industry's best products today. SERVPRO comes to each fire restoration job, ready to work with all of the latest advancements in the field. 

How Do My Furnishings, Walls, and Ceilings Get Cleaned?

When you call us for help with fire restoration in Cibolo, we arrive with our Green Fleet loaded with all of the equipment and proper cleaning agents to handle the job. To determine the best measures for cleaning your interior, we test surfaces covered in smoke residue. This allows us to match the right cleaning techniques and products for optimum results. 

Anytime a homeowner tries to handle fire-loss with consumer cleaning tools and DIY methods, they run the risk of worsening the damage. Some of the standard, professional-grade equipment that we bring to each fire damage project includes:

•   Personal protection equipment (PPE), which protects the crew from harmful irritants, such as soot
•   Durable wet sponges best for working on the removal of wet smoke residue
•   Dry sponges that work to lift away any dry smoke residue on surfaces easily
•   Moisture detection tools to help find hidden moisture pockets from the water used to extinguish the flames
•   Air scrubber equipment that helps capture the soot particles from the air
•   EPA-registered solvents and cleaning solutions to fight smoke odors

What Sets SERVPRO Apart from the Rest?

Once you choose us for your fire damage restoration needs, we send out a team to begin assessing your interior. The crew chief examines each area and records each detail, which allows for the formulation of a tailored plan of action. We use research-based planning to help facilitate the mitigation and remediation steps. Several areas that we address when putting a plan into place include:

•   Integrity and safety of any structural materials
•   Whether pack-out services are required
•   The level of damage within the loss zone, including potential materials that must get treated using controlled demolition methods
•   Any residual moisture from water or chemicals used to douse the flames
•   What drying or dehumidification equipment, if any and how many, is needed 
•   What odor-control equipment will work best on the project

What are Pack-Out Services?

There are times when items can be relocated to another room of the home for cleaning, or we will send them to our facility for detailed cleaning. We may also suggest a partial move out, where only some of your contents get moved at any given time. Whatever we decide is best, all of your belongings get logged for your records and to your insurance provider to go with your claim. 

Of course, there will be items that can be cleaned on-site, which our technicians will address and handle with care. 

What is Done to Address Foul Odors?

A common complaint after a house fire is the strong smell of smoke and charred materials. Without proper techniques, the smoke remains a constant reminder even after other traces of the fire get removed. Handling smoke odors is something that our IICRC-certified technicians at SERVPRO are trained to do. We take measures to contain the fire-loss zone so that mitigation can begin, which includes tarping off the area and covering vents. This helps to keep soot and smoke from getting tracked throughout the home and limit particulates in the air. Whenever soot and smoke residue get into the ducts of your HVAC system, these foul odors can spread throughout each room in your home.

Some of the advanced technology that we bring with us to help battle smoke odors includes:

•   Sealants for walls and ductwork that halt odor transmission from soot that has become embedded
•   Powerful deodorizing agents
•   Hydroxyl generators with UV light technology that help to eliminate odors safely
•   Thermal foggers that use chemicals to bind with odor molecules for easy removal.

What Items are a Total Loss?

As mentioned with our pack-out services, we take the time to catalog all items that are handled. Our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), reports the condition of each item as well as anything that has been discarded. What this service does is establish a chain of custody, which then helps to give you added peace of mind while also helping to expedite your insurance claim. Any items deemed unsalvageable are adequately disposed of according to local guidelines.

To have a team deployed to your home for fire restoration services, call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties at (830) 379-7474. We are here to make sure that your interior is "Like it never even happened."

Flash Flood Safety in Seguin, TX

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

Floods and What You Should Know

Summer storms pose a risk for floods. When floods damage your property, repairs will not be covered by your homeowner's insurance.

There are many ways you can prepare and protect your property from a flood.

How to Prepare

To start, you can prepare your property for any potential danger by creating an Emergency Ready Profile. Having an ERP allows you to have peace of mind and also allows us to quickly mitigate any damage caused by a flood.

FEMA has some great tips on how to stay safe during a flood.

-Gather supplies in case you have to abruptly leave your property

-Declutter drains and gutters in or around your property

-Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters

-Move to higher ground or floor if you cannot evacuate

Staying Safe

Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.

Did you know standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover flooding? To make a claim you must have coverage from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

It is important to know the types of flood risk in your area and to sign up for your community's warning system. Floods can occur with little to no warning and develop quickly. Just six inches of water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.

It's always best to think ahead so if this natural disaster occurs in your area, you are prepared.

Flood Damage Restoration

Flood damage that cannot be avoided can often be minimized with the proper water damage response. Our emergency crews are available to dry and restore your property should your home or office suffer a flood.

Call as soon as possible to begin water damage restoration.

SERVPROXIDE: For Deep Cleaning & Disinfection

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides custom disinfection solutions for every property. Call (830)379-7474 for a free quote.

SERVPRO has a new, proprietary disinfectant that is ideal for deep cleaning, SERVPROXIDE. 

As a franchise specializing in biohazard cleanup and disinfectant cleaning services, we have added SERVPROXIDE to our preferred team of disinfectants. 

SERVPROXIDE is an EPA registered disinfectant and sanitizer. It’s designed to disinfect hard surfaces from mold, viruses, and other harmful bacteria, and it can also sanitize soft surfaces like carpet. SERVPROXIDE also has the EPA’s lowest toxicity rating and is fragrance-free, which makes it a safe disinfectant for everyday use. 

SERVPROXIDE has received the D2 rating by NSF International, meaning no rinse is required for that surface to be safely handled again.

Where We Use SERVPROXIDE 

SERVPROXIDE can be used in many areas. We prefer using SERVPROXIDE to disinfect surfaces during:

• Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning.  The disinfectant can either wet a towel, be sprayed, or be misted to clean air ducts and HVAC units. 

• Restaurants.  When we’re called to disinfect a commercial kitchen, we use a disinfectant that we know will neutralize bacteria on all hard surfaces and floors. SERVPROXIDE is an effective disinfectant that gives us our gold-standard of a Zero ATP Score in food-grade safe cleaning.

• Daycares and Schools.  Keeping our children safe requires a clean environment, and this is all the more important during the flu season. We use SERVPROXIDE to disinfect all surfaces like desks, flooring, walls, doors, carpets, and anything else little hands will touch. 

• Hospitals and Nursing Homes.  Maintaining a disinfected environment is a necessity in a healthcare setting or where people with a higher risk of sickness live.  Just like in schools and daycares, we use SERVPROXIDE to disinfect every surface touched. 

• Homes.  We’re often called to help disinfect homes for various reasons including creating a safe space for a vulnerable person coming from the hospital or surgery and people with compromised autoimmune systems or viruses. We have cleaned homes affected by the flu, C-Diff, accidents involving bloodborne pathogens, and more. 

• Gyms.  Gyms typically have hundreds of pieces of equipment, and hand-cleaning each one may not be possible. To sanitize gyms, we charge our misters with SERVPROXIDE to create a wet fog that can clean hard-to-reach places. Wet fog is created with the use of an Ultra-Low-Volume mister. No rinse is required. 

• Vehicles, including Ambulances and Buses.  We’ve cleaned privately owned vehicles and those used for public transportation or ride-shares.  All hard surfaces are cleaned with SERVPROXIDE, and soft surfaces (like cloth seats) are also cleaned using the same disinfectant with an upholstery wash tool. 

• Airplanes.

• Cruise Ships.

• Boats.

• Trains.
• Carpet Cleaning and Upholstery Cleaning.  SERVPROXIDE can sanitize soft surfaces like carpets, rugs, drapes, and other types of upholstery.  We spray the SERVPROXIDE on the surface and then wet-wash the area with either a professional carpet cleaner or upholstery cleaner. 

What SERVPROXIDE Can Disinfect

SERVPROXIDE is EPA registered hospital- grade disinfectant and has been tested to successfully disinfect a variety of bacteria including:

• Gram-Negative Bacteria such as Salmonella, E.coli, Bordetella, and more. 
• Gram-Positive Bacteria like Staph and Listeria. 

It has also tested to inactivate the following viruses:

• Hepatitis A, B, and C
• H1N1
• Influenza B
• HIV Type 1
• Rotavirus
• Human Coronavirus
• Specific strains of Norovirus and Parvovirus
• And more

Complimentary Quotes Available

Give us a call at 830-379-7474or contact us online for a complimentary quote or simply to ask for guidance.  

Let us know what you’re interested in, and we’ll connect you with one of our cleaning experts.  

Custom-Planned Home and Commercial Property Deep Cleaning

We create a custom disinfection plan for every home and business.  We’ll take into consideration what surfaces need to be disinfected or sanitized and how often the cleaning needs to take place to keep the environment clean and safe for inhabitants.  

The highest priority spaces in a property are typically those where a compromised individual resides followed by shared spaces.  Shared spaces include kitchens, bathrooms, break rooms, and living rooms.  

If you’re a business, then you already understand the high-cost of interruption.  We know you need a safe environment for your employees, and we also know we shouldn’t be in the way of your operations.  Tell us when the most convenient cleaning time is for you, and we’ll make it work--including after-hours, overnight, and weekends. 

SERVPROXIDE for Biohazard Cleanup in Schertz and Cibolo

In situations where biohazard cleanup is necessary, our technicians will wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to keep themselves safe during cleaning. These types of situations typically involve:

• Accidents or traumatic events where bloodborne pathogens are present, including blood, bodily fluids, and feces. 
• Crime scene cleanup.
• Aftermath cleanup like unattended death, suicide, and homicide. 
• Cleanup after a virus-infected individual.

We understand the sensitive nature of these cleanings, and we can accommodate the cleaning to occur at the most convenient time of day.  If necessary, we will clean in unmarked vehicles to avoid drawing unnecessary attention. Our clients’ information is not published or advertised. 

Items that cannot be sanitized will be taken and disposed of lawfully at a medical waste facility. 

We are the Trusted Leader in Biohazard Cleaning for the Schertz and Cibolo

SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties has been cleaning and restoring properties in Texas since 2009. We live and work in our hometown of Seguin, and we’re always ready to help our neighbors.

Give us a call any time. We’re ready to help.  

Local Supermarket Floods After Recent Storms

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Severe scattered thunderstorms blew through Central and South Texas this past week. Towns such as New Braunfels, Schertz and Seguin received massive downpours that resulted in flooding. The city of Lockhart even experienced a tornado that resulted in some tremendous storm damage.

Local Supermarket Floods

A local supermarket experienced an unexpected flood as a result of torrential rains on Tuesday.

The building owner said he watched the water quickly rise several inches above the ground level and start pouring into the building. The water flowed behind the walls and soaked the entry carpet and even damaged a real estate showroom towards the front of the store.

Overwhelming Storm

The store was located downhill of a small creek and had seen its fair share of storms in the past. In fact, for this reason they had recently upgraded their drainage system to be able to handle higher amounts of water at once.

However, it was no match for the 13-15 inches of rain that area received in a short amount of time. The flash flood entered the store and wreaked havoc on the entry way carpet and real estate display room at the front. All the aisles were also flooded by the dirty storm water. Since the store had previous experience with water damage, they thought they could handle the water damage by themselves. However, as the rain kept pouring and the water kept rushing in they decided to let our team take care of the mess instead.

Thankfully, our team was able to quickly arrive at the local supermarket and began the water restoration and remediation process in a timely manner. Our fast response saved the store from even more potentially devastating damage.

Emergency Ready Plan

In addition, our marketing team is working with the building owner to create an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) to expedite his disaster response if something should go wrong in the future.

Call the Professionals

When thunderstorms strike in our area, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties is available around the clock to respond to your flood emergency. 

Give us a call at 830-379-7474or contact us online  

Our professional water damage restoration crews will get your building dry the first time and discourage further damage from mold and other microbes.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry-leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high-frequency touchpoints, foot traffic, and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties at 830-379-7474 or contact us online today for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision-makers on the first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Your Commercial Property Has Water Damage: Now What?

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

How to Respond to Water Damage at your Business

There are a plethora of situations where your business might suffer from a water damage loss. Perhaps a recent thunderstorm resulted in a flood that has left dirty water in your office, or maybe a pipe burst and now water has collected in the space between the wall and floors of the structure of your building. No matter what the original cause was you now have the problem of water damage. What should you do?

Identify the Source and Confirm the Extent of Damage

One of the first things you want to do when you notice signs of water damage is to determine the cause or entry point of the water. Some of the most common causes of water damage are a burst water heater, appliance drain lines, and a burst pipe. If you can find the cause of the water intrusion, make a note of it and photograph it if possible. This will help in the future if you decide to file a claim with your insurance company. If the source of the damage is related to any plumbing fixtures it is best to call a professional to come and repair as soon as possible. There is no point in beginning the restoration process before the source problem has been fixed.

After identifying the source, you will want to verify the extent of the damage. It is easy to see visible signs, such as soaked carpets or a wet ceiling. However, a simple visual inspection will most likely not be enough to reliably establish the full amount of damage. This is because water can soak into various building materials far from the source of where water has been noticed, without creating obvious signs for a long time. When this happens, it is not uncommon for mold to begin to grow if not addressed quickly. To accurately measure how far the water has spread, you will need a specialized tool for measuring moisture in buildings, called a Moisture Meter. By using a moisture meter, you can measure the moisture content (% MC) of the materials near where the water damage has been observed. By making continuously further check from the site of the damage you can determine the severity of the moisture intrusion. This information will help if you know if you need to focus on drying out the affected materials or remove and replace them instead.

Contacting a Water Damage Expert

If you are inspecting your own business property and don’t have any previous water clean up or restoration work, it is most likely in your best interest to call a water damage restoration company to handle the dry-out/tear-out for you. This is because water damage remediation work can be a delicate and dangerous situation, especially for someone without specialized experience or training. A professional water damage company will have the right tools and experience to minimize their risks from hazards such as weakened floors that might collapse, mold spores, and fiberglass insulation. Additionally, an expert is more likely to complete the dry-out tasks in a way that minimizes the overall damage and risk of future problems.

Drying Out the Affected Area

If you are determined to fix the problem yourself or the damage is minimal, it might be possible to remove the moisture yourself. If this is the case, you will need the following specialized tools to help you do an efficient job:

• Wet Vacuums (To remove standing water quickly)
• Air Mover and/or Dehumidifiers (To extract humid air)
• Thermo-hygrometer (To track the humidity of a room)
• Pin and/or Pinless Moisture Meters (To track the moisture of materials)

If you have climate control in your building, turning the temperature up slightly might help to keep the water from condensing and speed-up the dry-out work. You will want to make sure that you keep the affected area sealed off from exposure to the outside air as otherwise mold spores and other contaminants can get inside the structure and begin to grow. Any air movers in openings should be sealed in place in a position that forces air from the affected room out and prevents outside air from getting inside. Any contents or furniture that has been affected by the water should be removed from the room. You will need to further assess to see if they can be salvaged.

Document Everything

Make sure to document the cause of the damage, the extent, and what steps you took to fix it. If as you are working you decide that materials or furniture must be thrown out, keep track of your losses. It is incredibly important to photograph all these things. This is because if you file an insurance claim, it will help you tremendously. These are just a few steps to help, however as a general rule of thumb, if your property has water damage severe enough for you to file an insurance claim, you should call a professional such as SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties. They will handle the dry-out/tear-out process, pack and inventory all of your contents and furniture, and document the entire thing. They even work directly with your insurance.

If your commercial property has experienced a water damage loss, call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties for help now! 830-379-7474

COVID-19 Commercial Cleaning and Disinfection in Guadalupe County, Texas

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

For Professional Cleaning and Disinfection Services Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties 830-379-7474

SERVPRO's Cleaning and Disinfecting Protocols and CDC Recommendations for Safety During the Coronavirus Pandemic

SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties offers cleaning services including the removal of biohazard contaminants, such as COVID-19. We have specialized training and products to help get your property back to business.

We are Here to Help Get Your Business Back to Normal

SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties is being called on by numerous businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect, and sanitize their properties. SERVPRO uses EPA approved products and follows the CDC guidelines for cleanup practices. If you are interested in inquiring about our services we’re here to help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week, while life gets back to normal in the communities we all call home.

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line meet this standard and carry the EPA-registered emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC.

Fast Response For Minimal Business Disruptions

SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties can respond quickly and effectively to help minimize business interruption to your company. Our professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs on a daily basis.

In accordance with the CDC, SERVPRO recommends the daily cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum. These same surfaces are also mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces as well.

The CDC also recommends regular cleaning of the following areas/items:

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

SERVPRO professionals are trained to perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning, and disinfection of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for the cleanup process, and disposal of waste.

Tips For Keeping the Workplace Safe

Encourage your employees to…

Practice Good Hygiene

• Stop shaking hands – use other non-contact methods of greeting
• Clean hands with sanitizer or wash their hands frequently
• Avoid touching their faces and cover coughs and sneezes
• Disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, tables, desks, and handrails regularly
• Increase ventilation by opening windows or adjusting the air conditioning

Be Careful with Meetings and Travel

• Use video conferencing for meetings when possible
• When not possible, hold meetings in open, well-ventilated spaces
• Consider adjusting or postponing large meetings or gatherings
• Assess the risks of business travel

Handle Food Carefully

• Limit sharing food with others
• Strength health screenings for cafeteria staff and their close contacts
• Ensure cafeteria staff and their close contacts practice strict hygiene

Stay Home if...

• They are feeling sick
• They have a sick family member in their home

About Coronavirus

The CDC is responding to an outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a novel(new) coronavirus that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, and has spread to 60 locations(as of this publication), including cases in the United States. The virus known as “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”) is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person or through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Sources/Further Reading:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html

www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html

For Professional Cleaning and Disinfection Services for your Business, Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties

830-379-7474 

4 Tips to Prepare Your Business For Water Damage

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

If your business ever experiences water damage call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties at 830-379-7474

Simple Steps To Prepare Your Commercial Business For Water Damage

The thought of water damage occurring in your business can be daunting. In fact, 40% of commercial businesses lack a thorough plan for what to do when a situation like this occurs. Water damage does not have to be scary though. In fact, alleviating your fears can be simple. All it requires is following simple precautions and taking the time to do a little planning. Here are 4 Tips to help you protect your commercial business from water damage.

Tip # 1: Think It Through

The first step in creating a plan for what you will do if your business experiences water damage requires a simple thought exercise. Ask yourself, “What If”. By asking this question you will be able to explore all of the problems that you might face before they ever become a reality.

For example, ask yourself “What if the water main bursts and floods your office?” Considering this situation will lead you to think of more questions. This might include, how will you ensure the safety of your employees and customers? How will you prevent or eliminate business disruptions that might result in cash flow problems? How will you communicate with your employees during an emergency and/or disruption in the business?

As you consider the problems that will need to be addressed, make a note of the solutions that you come up with. Documenting and organizing this information is the basis for the next step in preventing and minimizing commercial water damage: making a plan of action.

Tip #2: Make A Plan

Use the solutions you came up with for your “What If” questions to create the foundation of an emergency plan for your business. A good plan should provide safety for anyone who might enter your business and will set forth processes and procedures for carrying on business during a variety of challenges.

At the very least your plan should include the following:

• An Emergency Contact List
• Emergency Procedures for you and your employees to follow directly after a loss occurs
• Emergency Staffing Instructions that can be distributed so that your employees are aware of what to do if this situation were ever to occur
• Vendor List and Contact Info
• Data backup plans and other resources to support business operations in the case that you must temporarily or permanently close or relocate business operations.

Creating an actionable plan before an emergency takes place will allow you and your staff to respond to the issue in a prepared and timely manner. This will help to mitigate loss and might even save you thousands of dollars in the long run.

Tip #3: Regularly Perform Inspections

It is no surprise to anyone that as time goes on stuff gets old and as a result, it can break or fail. When plumbing or water-management equipment fails, the resulting water damage restoration costs can pile up fast. Many property managers agree that water damage can be one of the costliest disasters to repair. Because of this, the operative word for commercial water damage prevention is maintenance.

Routinely inspect all visible plumbing on your property, test basement sump pumps, check exterior gutters and downspouts, regularly muck out drainage ditches and storm drains, and ensure that your roof structures are in good shape. Consistently checking these aspects of your commercial property will help you gauge the health of your water management systems and be able to fix a potential problem before it becomes a costly disaster.

Tip #4: Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties

An essential aspect of an emergency plan is knowing how to get help when you need it. SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties is a locally owned and operated damage restoration company based out of Seguin, Texas. Our team has years of experience in commercial water damage restoration and will be able to help your business get back on its feet in no time. If you ever experience a water damage loss at your business, please do not hesitate to give us a call!    

How Do You Stay Safe While Recovering From a Kitchen Fire?

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Rely On the Safety Procedures SERVPRO uses for Schertz Homeowners

After any fire damage there are going to be several safety issues, however kitchen fires pose difficult challenges. These problems can include possible structural damage, unsafe kitchen access and electrical hazards. Having professionals to help you during this time is critical and can make the situation a little less overwhelming. After a fire, you should not go into the affected area until a trained professional is there to help. This will ensure you and your family stay as safe as possible.

What initial steps are necessary to make the kitchen safe after fire damage in your Schertz Home?

A thorough, professional assessment should be performed as soon as possible after the fire. Three significant issues must be addressed immediately:

• Identify unsafe areas and safe areas
• Secure and organize the worksite
• Cleaning protocols and debris disposal

What procedures are used to ensure kitchen safety before the recovery work starts?

SERVPRO professionals know how to separate safe and unsafe areas, and part of that process includes pinpointing structural issues that may be dangerous. Safe cleanup procedures are also spelled out, along with the steps necessary to remove hazardous debris. Charred debris sometimes produces foul odors and can be especially dangerous, so special procedures may occasionally be required to remove it.

Precisely what safety hazards must be addressed specifically?

• Electrical hazards and lighting issues
• Potential problems for at-risk individuals
• Using PPE

How are electrical issues handled?

Restoring electrical service is a priority, but dangerous hazards must be accounted for and eliminated as part of the process. These include damaged wiring and power cords, along with the complete verification of all circuits. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters are used to do this if moisture is present.

What about the safety of homeowners and workers?

Slip-and-fall accidents and injuries are common after a kitchen fire, but this can be prevented by identifying slick surfaces and dangerous obstacles. SERVPRO professionals have experience using protective gear while working, and they know how to implement special procedures to protect at-risk residents who have health or mobility issues.

Turn to SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties to stay safe while kitchen fire issues are being addressed. Call us at (830) 379-7474 for an assessment.

How Smoke Damage Affects Your Home

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

It does not take a huge fire to leave smoke damage behind in your home. Even a relatively small kitchen fire can result in significant smoke damage to your belongings and possibly the structure of your home. Timely cleanup of smoke and soot is important to mitigate further loss.

After a fire, it is possible that some of your items might be able to be restored to preloss condition. SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties works hand in hand with your insurance company to document your property and help you determine what can and cannot be salvaged in a timely manner by using the most effective cleaning methods for each item.

Smoke Damage by Surface Type:

• Curtains & Upholstery
  Vacuuming curtains and upholstery with an upright vacuum’s standard brushes or beaters can push soot deeper. This can make cleaning more difficult. The right filter, hose attachment and technique are crucial.
• Clothes & Bedding
  Unburned chemicals, invisible to naked eye, must be completely removed to rid odor. This takes special washing regimens and chemicals.
• Furniture & Carpet
  How do you clean smoke damaged wood furniture? You can inadvertently damage carpet when cleaning smoke damaged furniture. Wooden furniture can stain carpet with dyes.  Metal furniture can rust and stain the carpet. Protective barriers (foam blocks, etc.) are essential in keeping surfaces separate until dry.   
• Hard Flooring
  Flooring may require refinishing or replacement, especially those water damaged from firefighting techniques. In areas without water damage, and where burn damage is not deep, deodorizing and/or resurfacing may be possible.
• Porous Hard Surfaces
  Porous materials such as drywall, plaster, wallpaper, paint, and exposed wood can quickly become permanently discolored. How do you remove soot from wood and other porous surfaces? Dry chemical sponges are one way to prevent soot from seeping into surfaces to cause permanent stains.
• Fiberglass and Appliance Exteriors
  Yellow within hours if left unaddressed.
• Metallic Surfaces
  Acidic soot can cause metal surfaces, such as large appliances, to pit and corrode with time. Wiping them with cooking oil can prevent staining and rusting.
• Plastic & PVC
  Plastic surfaces and synthetics collect more smoke than other materials and can discolor within minutes unless wiped down with a mild alkali cleaning solution.
• Porcelain
  Washing machines, tubs, and basins must be cleaned quickly to prevent permanent staining.

After a fire, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties is here to help. Call us today! 

Enjoy the Benefits of Water Damage Expertise When You Call SERVPRO in Seguin

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Teams are available around the clock to assist you.

Our Experienced Technicians Know Exactly How To Help

No matter the level of devastation, any water loss incident that results in water damage must be addressed promptly. Countless benefits come from hiring trained restoration professionals, and we want you to know how we can help here at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties. Whether you have had a pipe burst or your washing machine leaked water throughout your laundry room, we have the experience and equipment to get the job completed quickly and efficiently. 

When it comes to any water damage in Seguin, our skilled technicians come to your property promptly to begin the assessment portion of the process. We understand how crucial it is that you are back in your home after the loss, so we formulate a plan using our proven methods and equipment. 

Water Cleanup

At SERVPRO, we execute a great deal of water loss projects for both homes and businesses. An extensive amount of time and training goes into ensuring our technicians are ready to perform each job efficiently. Our professional technicians receive certifications as a Water Restoration Technician (WRT) via the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). 

Further training often comes in the form of:

-    Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT)

-    Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS)

-    Applied Structural Drying (ASD)

-    Odor Control Technician (OCT)

-    Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT)

SERVPRO technicians utilize DryBook Software, which allows us to strategically plan out drying goals based on the standards set forth by the restoration industry. It also allows us to document every step of the water damage restoration process so that we can monitor everything in real-time. 

We also come fully equipped for each job with equipment made for effective water extraction and drying. Our trucks are loaded with pumps and wet-vacuums, along with air movers, dehumidifiers, and all of the products for disinfection to thwart mold growth.

Preventing Mold Growth

Water loss and flooding incidents pose a threat to homes in the area if proper precautions are not implemented to prevent mold and mildew growth. SERVPRO technicians have been trained to look for signs of mold, but we work first and foremost to keep it from festering, to begin with. The onset of mold can start within 48 hours from the water damage, with excessive moisture and humid conditions providing the ideal climate for growth. We work diligently to dry your interior, followed by the application of specialized disinfectants to inhibit mold and mildew.

You do not have to worry when you call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties to your side in the event of water damage. Contact our team at (830) 379-7474, and we will send out a team to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why Do I Need Professional Fire Damage Restoration After a Fire In My Cibolo Property?

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

To ease the process of restoring your property after a fire, you should call SERVPRO.

Smoke, Soot Particles, and Odors Need SERVPRO Restoration Methodologies for Comprehensive Cleanups.

Fire damage to your Cibolo home can be a traumatic experience for any homeowner. Apart from the damage due to the heat, fire can cause significant damage to your property and belongings due to smoke and soot. The smoke particles can coat walls, ceilings, and almost any surface and cause permanent damage if not cleaned quickly and efficiently.

The particles in the smoke contain unburned carbon that can be very difficult to remove after a fire to your Cibolo property. Furthermore, not all soot particles are alike, and it takes a multi-step process to eliminate them. It is a job for the professionals who have years of training and expertise in fire damage restoration. Here are some of the ways that professionals get rid of the smoke and soot damage from your property.

Strategies are developed based on the type of soot residue

The plan to restore the smoke damage depends on the type of smoke residue. Here at SERVPRO, our team of expert restorers evaluate the type of smoke residue and prepare a plan accordingly. Dry smoke residue is easier to clean compared to wet smoke residue, as dry smoke residue does not stain the surface as intensely as wet smoke residue, thus it is easier to remove by wiping. Our IICRC certified technicians use less aggressive methods to clean such films.

Wet smoke residues, on the other hand, are significantly more difficult to clean. SERVPRO technicians use a variety of methods such as wet-cleaning, foam-cleaning and abrasive cleaning to mitigate the damage caused by wet smoke residues. The heat streams during a fire can drive these smoke particulates deep into cracks and crevices and porous surfaces further exacerbating the cleanup difficulty.

Deodorizing  

Smoke and soot pose another challenge during the restoration process- the odor. If proper precautions are not used during the restoration process, the odor can linger on long after the fire. SERVPRO technicians use equipment such as Ultra Low Volume (ULV) foggers, heat foggers, deodorizing beads, ozone machines and other methods to combat the odors after a fire. Our technicians have years of experience in managing odors after fires of all sizes. We can get your home smelling like home again in no time.

How To Deal With Various Aspects Of Fire damage In Cibolo

Considering it only takes 30 seconds for a small fire to turn into a huge blaze, every home faces the risk of fire damage. With more and more items being made from synthetic materials nowadays, fires can start and spread within a few minutes. These materials also tend to produce excessive smoke that can damage areas not affected by the flames. The wrong approach can hamper recovery efforts.

Most cases of fire damage in Cibolo also include damages from water. When fighting the fire, no one concentrates on the amount of water used so it might form pools or soak into porous materials. Extracting such water should be given priority once restoration starts because extended water exposure has equally difficult challenges. Our SERVPRO team is well equipped with extractors and other tools necessary to handle this.

In most cases, your insurance covers the costs involved. However, you might ruin the claim process if you fail to do proper documentation. Instead of waiting for the adjuster to arrive before starting the restoration, you can find out if photographic evidence is enough for the claim process. Calling the adjuster can help you confirm this and begin restoration. Our SERVPRO technicians can help you take the necessary photographs as they do the restoration. Doing this saves time thus limiting the chances of additional damages happening.

Unless it is a massive blaze that consumes the entire structure and its contents, most fire incidents leave many salvageable items. However, it might not be easy to tell the difference especially when everything is covered in soot. Our SERVPRO team begins by separating items into three groups. The groups include salvageable, unsalvageable and questionable items. To a trained eye, it is easier to make these distinctions. We can also move some contents to an offsite facility for cleaning. Move Outs improve the outcome of the salvage process.

Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties at (830) 379-7474 today to talk to one of our fire restoration experts.

What are the Differences Between Janitorial Services and Commercial Cleaning for COVID-19?

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

With Texas businesses re-opening after the Coronavirus Pandemic, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties is being called on by numerous business and community leaders to perform the necessary bio-remediation services to clean and sanitize their properties for COVID-19.

SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and sanitize your business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis. 

Here are 4 things that show how our cleaning is different than janitorial cleaning: 

IICRC Certified. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the non-profit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. Not only is SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties IICRC certified as a firm, but most members of our staff carry several IICRC certifications. 

Cleaning Experts. The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets,  and tables at a minimum. Most of our cleaning tactics will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis 

The CDC also recommends regular cleaning of the following areas/items: 

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

Cleaning Products. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line meet this standard and carry the EPA-registered emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.  

Our proprietary cleaning agents are EPA-certified, hospital-grade disinfectants that have demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19) on hard, non-porus surfaces. 

We carry multiple hospital-grade disinfectants and provide our personnel with proper PPE. Not only does this protect everyone, but it also protects the building and people in it.   

Cleaning Procedures. SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties technicians are experts in infectious disease cleanup and bio-hazard cleaning. Our proven cleaning procedures and protocols have been used to clean and sanitize rhinovirus and norovirus in the past. We are implementing similar protocols, and we are "battle tested" in regards to virus cleanup. 

Bring the professionals in! Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties (830) 379-7474

We Are Cleaning Experts!

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Pro-active Cleaning for Coronavirus COVID19, Influenza, and other Biohazards

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

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

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

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties, 830-379-7474

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

What To Do For Fire And Smoke Damage

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

STEPS TO RESTORE FIRE AND SMOKE DAMAGE

Experiencing fire and smoke damage to your home can be traumatic and upsetting. If you are unaware what to do and scouring the internet via google to find out what you should do, I feel your pain. If you follow these steps, it’ll make your fire and smoke damage restoration processes as smooth as possible.

1. Contact SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties 

SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties offers 24/7 emergency services, meaning we can come out quickly when contacted to provide immediate relief. This is a very important feature that you should always look for when contacting a damage restoration company. Why do you need immediate service for fire damage? Having expert technicians begin the fire restoration process quickly can prevent more damage from spreading throughout your home. The longer you wait after a fire and smoke event in your home, the worse the damage will get. Most companies will offer a free consultation or charge a small fee to come out and assess the damage. SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties will scope the job free of charge.

2. Emergency Tarping & Sealing Services

Once the fire damage restoration begins in earnest, the main priority will always be to prevent damage from getting worse. For instance, then, if you have a leak thanks to a hole burned in your roof or due to a hole in your wall, then SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties will start by addressing that.

Likewise, fire damage restoration can also often go hand in hand with water damage restoration. This can be necessary for instance if the fire has led to a burst pipe or water tank. In these cases, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties will act quickly to stop the source of the water before it spreads through more of your building and causes more damage.

3. Removal of Fire and Smoke Damage

Next, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales will begin the clean-up part of the fire damage restoration process whereby they will clean away smoke, dust, and soot from your surfaces. After a fire often you will find that your property looks dark, stained and charred. The first job SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales will tackle will be to clean up all this damage and get your property at least looking as normal as possible.

This is also when water damage restoration will begin properly. Here any standing pools of water will be removed using submersible pumps and the areas will then be dried and sanitized. Water damage can also cause health problems owing to contamination in the water, so sanitization is particularly important here.

During this fire damage restoration process, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties will also ensure to remove any odors that can linger after the smoke has been in the room. This might involve carpet cleaning as well and will often need to address adjacent rooms as well as those directly affected by fire damage.

Finally, the clean-up part of the fire damage restoration process will also involve the removal and disposal of items that are too badly damaged to be repairable. If you have furniture for instance that has absorbed a lot of contaminated water, or if you have carpet that has been badly burned… in these cases often the best-case scenario is just to throw these things out and to replace them with new items. SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales handles this for you so that you don’t have to.

Restoration of Your Home

The next stage is to begin actually restoring furniture and repairing the damage caused by fire. For instance, if cabinets have been destroyed by fire, then SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales will involve either repairing those cabinets or replacing them with new ones. Carpets can likewise be installed a new and walls can be repainted, and wallpaper can be put back up.

The idea of this stage is to get your property looking as good as new so that you can go back to normal.

If you have just experienced fire and smoke damage, call SERVPRO Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties at 830-379-7474 for all fire, smoke, and water restoration needs. We are proud to serve Schertz, Seguin, Cibolo, McQueeney, Gonzales, Luling and the surrounding New Braunfels area.

Types of Storm Damage

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Severe weather can wreak havoc on your home or business.  Heavy rain, strong wind and other factors such as hail and flooding can result in significant damage to your property. Do you know the most common types of storm damage?

Wind Damage

Hurricanes, strong thunderstorms, and tornadoes can lead to severe wind damage to your property. Your roof is especially prone to be damaged by these circumstances. Strong winds can lift shingles, cause cracks and even remove part (Or all!) of the roof itself. If the wind is harsh enough, it can even shear away asphalt tiles. Flying debris can also result in damage to the roof and siding. After a storm with strong wind, having your roof assessed by a qualified professional is strongly recommended as damage such as roof leaks may not be immediately visible.

Roof Leaks

After a severe storm, your roof may have loose flashing. Loose flashing that is not repaired can lead to further damage, such as another roof leak weeks after the initial storm damage. Even a small leak can produce damp and moldy conditions inside of your home or business. The best plan of action is to secure roof repair immediately following wind damage in order to prevent long term interior damage.

Flood Damage & Recovery

Floodwaters can seriously damage your home or business. If a property is near water or in a low-lying area, flood water damage can pose a severe threat. Heavy rains and flooding may cause water damage miles away from bodies of water. If the land around the property cannot absorb the amount of water the additional flooding may occur. Flood damage can also occur as a result of frozen pipes breaking. Flood pump failures contribute to basement flooding and contaminated groundwater as well. Flooding may even become so bad it can disrupt your municipal water system. Experts will assess groundwater and evaluate the condition of pipes following flood damage. Hiring a storm restoration professional may allow you to begin the cleanup process even before water restoration occurs. Cleaning before water restoration often proves essential yet challenging. By relying upon a trained water damage restoration specialist, you'll usually obtain faster storm remediation. These experts may suggest ways to help mitigate flood water damage in the future, for instance, by requesting backup flood pump installation.

Hail Damage & Recovery
Hail may be the most overlooked cause of major storm damage. Hail can damage not just your roof but also your siding, exterior walls, and any detached sheds or outbuildings. You may think you’ve survived a hail storm but do know that hail damage is difficult to identify. Again, you’re wise to hire a storm damage restoration professional to inspect your roof, exterior walls, and outbuildings for damage. Dark spots on your roof are areas where the roofing granules have been knocked away. These weakened spots can lead to other more extensive problems such as leaks and cracks. Cracked and chipped siding is also a sign of hail damage.

Impact Damage & Recovery
In a major storm, practically anything can become a creator of damage to your home or business. Think about trees. Your home may survive storm damage only to have a tree on your property succumb to the wind, hail, or rain and fall onto your house. A neighbor’s outdoor lawn furniture can become wind-blown projectiles. Extreme wind pressure turns regular outdoor items into tools of destruction. After storm damage, the professionals at SERVPRO of Lexington do a walk around to look for the signs of these types of unusual damage.

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties has specialized training and experience in storm damage, fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, water damage, and natural disaster cleanup. Our staff is highly trained in building services and property damage restoration. We study IICRC standards and best practices in cleaning and restoration. Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties (830-379-7474) anytime.

Thunderstorms Cause Unexepected Flooding

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Scattered thunderstorms are expected in the Schertz, Cibolo and Seguin areas today. This weather is expected to continue throughout the week.

Many neighboring towns saw only sunshine, but in those areas that experienced the storms, the rainfall was intense and overwhelming.

Office Building Floods

An office building in Cibolo, Texas experienced an unexpected flood as a result of torrential rains earlier this year.

The building owner said he watched the water quickly rise several inches above the ground level door jamb and start pouring into the building. The water flowed behind the walls and soaked an office carpet.

Drainage Issues

Water has not flowed in through this door in past storms, so the building owner suspects that a clogged underground drain pipe leading to a catch basin backed up.

He plans to repair the drainage to prevent future floods, but this goes to show flooding can happen anywhere, even on lots with preventive systems in place.

Importance of Drying

The owner thought he contained the problem by mopping up behind the flood, but several days later his tenant complained of a musty smell in the office.

Drying out porous materials like carpet and drywall is key to preventing microbial growth, so we are sending a crew to apply a botanical anti-microbial solution and set up fans and a dehumidifier to completely dry the area.

Emergency Ready Plan

In addition, our marketing team is working with the building owner to create an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) to expedite his disaster response if something should go wrong in the future.

Call the Professionals

When thunderstorms strike in our area, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties is available around the clock to respond to your flood emergency.

Our professional water damage restoration crews will get your building dry the first time and discourage further damage from mold and other microbes.

How Often Should You Clean Your Rain Gutters?

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Unclogging gutters and rain spouts are an important part of home maintenance in the fall and spring. It’s an easy job to do yourself, but if you are afraid of heights or doubt your ability to get it done, don’t forget your friends here at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties. We can help you in both cleaning and unclogging your gutters, which help to keep you from dealing with damage from water during the wet months.

You risk experiencing water damage to your roof, basement and crawl space if gutters and rain spouts are not cleaned out regularly. So how often should you clean out your rain gutters? It’s going to be important to take care of this task before the rainy season hits in the spring, summer and into the fall, for sure, so it is probably a good idea to complete this task at least three times a year, ahead of wet and windy weather. Debris will build up in your gutters at those times, preventing water from draining down and out, and if the gutters can’t channel the water when it rains, it ends up pooling and backing up into your walls and attic, or near your foundation and in your basement.

You will want to use step ladders on solid level ground and try to schedule cleaning when the weather has been dry for a few days. This way, the debris, leaves and pine needles won’t be as soaked and will be much easier to remove. Remove larger debris and then follow that up with a powerful hose that washes everything else down towards the downspout. You will also want to clean the gutter filter screens and make sure there are no clogs in your downspout. If these tasks seem like more than you want to handle alone, call us!

Contact us here at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties for any water damage caused by your rain gutters. Gutter cleaning and unclogging rain spouts is an easy regular home maintenance fix. Do your family a favor by preventing water damage to your home or business with regularly cleaning your rain gutters.

Why Water Damage Should Be Dried by a Water Mitigation Company

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Don't DIY Water Damage

Water damage is both an inconvenience and a destructive force, often causing a lot of damage. Of course, it can also be expensive, even with insurance. While many would opt to clean and repair water damage on their own if they could, it’s quite the risk. That’s why we urge you to call your local water mitigation company.

Mold Growth

One of the main reasons you should have a professional disaster restoration company dry your water damage is because remaining moisture can encourage mold growth. The faster water damage is dried, the lower the odds you’ll have mold. That’s why our technicians will also apply an antimicrobial spray—to inhibit potential mold growth.

Hidden Moisture

Depending on where water damage occurs, it’s possible that water was absorbed or got behind materials. For example, in many instances, water will get behind walls or under flooring where it cannot be seen by the naked eye. A professional disaster restoration company, however, can use moisture meters and other specialized equipment to detect high levels of moisture and determine areas that need to dry.

Your Local Disaster Restoration Company

Water damage can disrupt lives, but by calling in professionals immediately, you can mitigate the impact it has over the long term. If you have water damage don’t hesitate to call us at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties (830) 379-7474

Kitchen Fire in Schertz, TX Causes Smoke Damage

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

This heavy soot was caused by a kitchen fire in Schertz, Texas earlier this year.

Do you know the leading cause of home fires? Cooking. Ovens and stovetops that aren’t used correctly or are left unmonitored can result in disastrous effects. Even when a fire is caught soon after starting, the damage can be devastating to a home. Smoke moves fast and can leave soot and odor trapped in curtains, sofas, on the walls and other places throughout the home. Thankfully, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties is here to help. Our professional technicians can clean, deodorize and sanitize any affected materials, getting to your home back to preloss condition. SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties has a tried and true process of eliminating the strong odor of smoke from the air using deodorizers and ionizing machines.

To learn more about smoke damage remediation, click here.

Please call today to get the process started: (830) 379-7474

Water Damage in Your Seguin, TX Area Home

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience Water Damage in Seguin, TX we can help!

What To Do If You Have Water Damage in your Home

Water damage in your home can be a frustrating headache. No one anticipates the issue; therefore, it’s always a major inconvenience and added expense. Particularly with broken pipes, there are several steps you need to take to start the water cleanup process.

1. Stop the Water Flow and Clear the Area

When a pipe breaks or bursts, you first need to stop the water flow. Always know how to shut off the water in your house and turn it off immediately when you notice water leaking. If there is a large amount of water, it’s a good idea to turn off electricity in the room as well. Also clear the area of any decor items, furniture and especially electronics. If there are removable rugs or floor pads, take them out of the room.

1. Call the Professionals

As tempting as it may be to handle this problem alone, it’s always a good idea to call water damage specialists. They will remove the water and assess the damage to your home. It will give you peace of mind to have professionals dry out the area, as well as items within it. One of the frustrations of having broken pipes is not just the initial water, but also the threat of mold. Professionals will check unseen places, like below flooring and within walls for moisture in order to dry them and prevent mold.

1. Check with Your Insurance Company

The next call should be to your insurance company. If you have flood insurance, that will be very useful. If not, ask for details of your homeowner’s insurance policy and what exactly it covers. Once you know this information, you can prepare your budget and work with the water removal company on payment.

Water damage from broken pipes is a problem you need to deal with immediately. You should make sure to turn off the water and electricity, call a company specializing in water removal and restoration and check your insurance policies. Following these steps will make a hectic process a little more manageable and have you on your way to a restored home. Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties if you experience any water damage 830-379-7474. We are here to help!

After Water Damage Should You Remove Your Carpet?

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

A Quick Guide on Deciding if You Should Keep Your Carpet After Water Damage Has Occurred

Dealing with the water removal, drying and disinfecting, and dehumidification following the devastating effects of water damage from a pipe break in your home in Cibolo, TX can be very upsetting. In addition, you need to see that the cause of the water damage is remedied and undergo repair or replacement of many elements of your home. How do you decide your carpet can be dried out and re-stretched to live out its normal lifespan? It may possibly be saved, but that depends on the type of water that has saturated it. There are three different categories of water that may affect the decision.

1. Clean Water: the water comes from a pipe break or leaking water supply line, then likely the carpet could be dried out and saved for re-use. If the carpet itself is heavily soiled or it is left wet for an extended period of time, it can deteriorate further. If resolved early on, the carpet can usually be saved.
2. Gray Water: Gray water comes from an overflowing toilet, or from a malfunctioning dishwasher or washing machine. It may contain urine and other bacterial or virus components but no feces and can also deteriorate. The decision to keep the carpet exposed to Gray Water is a tricky one and may depend on the speed of removal and whether an effective disinfection process can be undergone.
3. Black Water: The worst of the three categories is Black Water. It may come as a result of a sewer backup or other situation where feces, microbes or harsh chemicals may be present. It involves careful handling to extract and careful attention to subsequent disinfection and disposal of contaminated items. It requires replacing your carpets.

Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties following a pipe break to help you take care of the necessary water removal, cleanup, and restoration of your home and belongings. They can help you make the hard decisions about whether replacing your carpet is necessary and help restore a safe and comfortable home for your family.

Are Your Walls Wet? How Can You Tell?

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses the right equipment to identify affected materials. SERVPRO will check for the source of moisture in your home or business.

Gypsum, aka “drywall,” is a very popular material for use in the construction of homes and offices. The material is noted for its strong fire-resistant qualities. However, drywall is also known to be incredibly susceptible to being damaged by moisture compared to many other building materials.

This is, in part, because drywall is extremely porous, readily absorbing moisture and retaining it. If the moisture content (%MC) of drywall exceeds even 1%, then the drywall can be considered “moisture-compromised” and in need of either drying or removal depending on whether or not mold has begun to grow.

Even greenboard, the “water-resistant” drywall, will be damaged by moisture if it gets past the green, water-resistant paper covering that gives greenboard its name. The majority of greenboard’s water resistance comes from the paper covering, not the drywall itself.

Because of how susceptible drywall is to be damaged by even minute amounts of moisture, it’s important to be able to accurately assess the amount of water present in drywall.

When looking for a moisture meter to use for testing drywall, some considerations include:

• Whether or not the meter has a gypsum scale.
• The range at which the meter detects moisture—the meter should be able to accurately detect very small amounts of moisture.
• Length of the pins.
• Additional scales for other materials—most professionals have to work with more than just drywall, so having a moisture meter with the ability to test other materials using different reading scales is a must.

The SERVPRO 1-4-8 Rule & What It Means to You…

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

The longer it sits, the worse it gets.

Timely mitigation is key to controlling damage, downtime, and recovery costs. You will appreciate the rapid response and training of SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties to help limit damage and get your home or facility back to normal quickly. You can count on SERVPRO’s 1-4-8 service guidelines to ensure that timely mitigation happens.

Service Response Guidelines

1 Hour – Within one hour of notice of loss, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties will contact you to arrange for service

4 Hours – Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties will be on-site to start mitigation services (if necessary). 

8 Hours – Within eight business hours, we will initiate a verbal briefing of the scope of damage and needed mitigation efforts.

These guidelines are a corporate-wide standard that all SERVPRO franchisees are expected to meet. Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties at 83-379-7474 if you have water or fire damage at your home or place of business.