Protect Yourself when Grilling This Summer in Asheville

5/1/2022 (Permalink)

Homeowners in the Asheville NC area love to grill, but there are many dangers that come with all the outdoor fun.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments went to an annual average of 8,900 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues per year.

Here are a few ways to stay safe and prevent house fires while grilling:

Do -

1. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your house. Farther is even better. This includes portions attached to your house like carports, garages and porches. Grills should not be used underneath wooden overhangs either, as the fire could flare up into the structure above. This applies to both charcoal and gas grills.

2. Clean your grill regularly. If you allow grease and fat to build up on your grill, they provide more fuel for a fire. Grease is a major source of flare ups.

3. Check for gas leaks. You can make sure no gas is leaking from your gas grill by making a solution of half liquid dish soap and half water and rubbing it on the hoses and connections. Then, turn the gas on (with the grill lid open.) If the soap forms large bubbles, that's a sign that the hoses have tiny holes or that the connections are not tight enough.

4. Keep decorations away from your grill. Decorations like hanging baskets, pillows and umbrellas look pretty AND provide fuel for a fire. To make matters worse, today's decor is mostly made of artificial fibers that burn fast and hot, making this tip even more important.

5. Keep a spray bottle of water handy. That way, if you have a minor flare-up you can spray it with the water to instantly calm it. The bonus of this tip is that water won't harm your food, so dinner won't be ruined!

6. Keep a fire extinguisher within a couple steps of your grill. And KNOW HOW TO USE IT. If you are unsure how to use the extinguisher, don't waste time fiddling with it before calling 911. Firefighters say many fire deaths occur when people try to fight a fire themselves instead of calling for expert help and letting the fire department do its job.

Don't -

7. Turn on the gas while your grill lid is closed. NEVER do this. It causes gas to build up inside your grill, and when you do light it and open it, a fireball can explode in your face. 

8. Leave a grill unattended. Fires double in size every minute. Plan ahead so that all of your other food prep chores are done and you can focus on grilling.

9. Overload your grill with food. This applies especially fatty meats. The basic reason for this tip is that if too much fat drips on the flames at once, it can cause a large flare-up that could light nearby things on fire.

10. Use a grill indoors. People often think it will be safe to use a grill, especially a small one, indoors. NOT TRUE. In addition to the fire hazard, grills release carbon monoxide, the deadly colorless, odorless gas. That gas needs to vent in fresh air or it can kill you, your family and pets.

In case the you experience a house fire, call your local fire department immediately. Be sure to contact a licensed fire damage restoration company to cleanup and repair any damage to your home occurs.

Why SERVPRO -IICRC Certifications

5/1/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Asheville, NC, we believe that our employees can best serve our customers by being trained and knowledgeable in the services that we provide. We require our employees to go through SERVPRO’s corporate training program, but we also require them to get their certifications through various professional certification boards, such as the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Since the IICRC is the standard-setting organization in the cleaning and restoration industry, we’re proud to be certified members!

What is the IICRC?

Within the cleanup and restoration industry, the IICRC is one of the major industry associations that certifies technicians and sets the standards that restoration companies use in their day-to-day operations. Since the 1970s, this nonprofit has helped define terminology and set procedures for cleaning and restoring fire damage, water damage, mold, biohazards, and more. Most importantly, they have created universally accepted certification programs that help educate technicians and demonstrate proficiency. Many insurance companies also recognize the IICRC, so most restoration companies follow the organization’s standards and best practices.

Why We Are IICRC-Certified

It’s every restoration company’s goal to have IICRC-certified employees and to become a certified firm. These certifications are not only a good foundation for our employees, but it also lets our customers know that we’re current with the latest restoration practices. We make sure all of our crew chiefs are certified and up-to-date, so you can rest assured your property’s in good hands. If you do have a disaster at your Asheville Area home, SERVPRO of Asheville is available 24/7, so give us a call at (828) 255-4535!

Signs of Frozen Pipes in Your Building

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes can be prevented with the appropriate insulation; however, even the best precautions don’t always work.

If you’re operating a business or managing a property in the Asheville, NC, area then you will likely want to familiarize yourself with issues common in colder climates, especially frozen pipes. Before a freeze leads to broken pipes and water damage, you should familiarize yourself with the signs of frozen pipes to avoid extensive water cleanup and the potential need for restoration specialists.

1. Strange Odors

When pipes freeze, and most likely before any water cleanup is necessary, you may notice strange odors coming from floor drains and faucets. These odors occur because when pipes freeze, especially waste pipes, the ice blocks the areas where gas and other fumes would generally escape. If you begin to smell strange odors coming from areas they don’t typically, you may want to reach out to your local plumbing professionals to avoid any significant issues with water damage.

2. Slow or No Running Water

Additionally, if the water from faucets is slow or not running at all, your pipes may be frozen. Similar to the reasons that odors occur, the free flow of water is obstructed when ice begins to build up in a pipe, causing the water to trickle or stall altogether.

3. The Appearance of Frost on Pipes

In either of the above instances, you can take it upon yourself to investigate, looking in mechanical closets or crawlspaces. If, while investigating, you come across frost on the pipes, this is a sign that you likely have some ice build-up. If not taken care of immediately, the pressure within the pipes may become too great, leading to cracks and breaks in the plumbing.

Frozen pipes can be prevented with the appropriate insulation; however, even the best precautions don’t always work. The best protection, to avoid burst pipes and the resulting water damage, is to remember the steps above, checking your building daily for any possible signs of freezing.

Which Storm Shutters Are Best for You?

9/18/2021 (Permalink)

Storm shutters can prevent a lot of unnecessary damage from high winds and storms, but nobody can stop the storm from happening.

If you live in Asheville, NC, you may need to protect your home from the high winds associated with tropical storms and hurricanes. Most storm damage comes from wind getting in your house through the windows and doors, then wreaking havoc from the inside out.

Storm shutters shield the glass from high winds and debris. They come in many different styles, each with its own merits. Here is a guide that can help you choose the best type based on your needs:

1. Your primary need is the ease of use. You want protection that can be activated quickly and without a lot of labor. Roll-down shutters are the best option for this need, but they are pricey. They are permanently and inconspicuously attached to the top of your windows where they can be operated by a single person using a motor or crank.

2. You want protection that looks nice. Bahama and colonial styles are accessible and functional. These attach to your home’s exterior and add architectural style while being ready to close for storms. They are not as costly as roll-down styles and not as labor-intensive as installing corrugated panels each time it storms.

3. You appreciate the lowest price. You are willing to trade some hard work to get quality materials at a lower price. Sturdy corrugated panels are labor intensive since they must be brought out of storage, sorted, overlapped, and attached with many bolts each time you need them. For a little more money, accordion-style shutters can be permanently attached in special housing next to each window, making it easy enough for one person to close them. Accordion styles are more expensive than corrugated panels and less expensive than the decorative options.

Storm shutters can prevent a lot of unnecessary damage from high winds and storms, but nobody can stop the storm from happening. At least you can rely on storm mitigation professionals to help get your home back to normal after a storm.

Steps for Cleaning Moldy Paintings

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

Keep in mind throughout the process that mold remediation is often a job best left to the professionals.

Excess moisture can create an environment that mold needs to grow. If your home in Asheville, NC, floods or has a problem with high humidity, you may find mold on some of your belongings. This includes furniture, clothing, books, and even art. Here are a few mold cleaning tips to help you salvage affected paintings.

1. Determine Type of Painting

The first thing you need to do is determine what kind of painting you're dealing with. You may want to save your watercolor, but keep in mind that cleaning it with water may damage it beyond repair. Acrylic paint is sturdier. An oil painting, however, is probably going to be easiest to save as long as you don't use chemicals that damage the oils.

2. Remove Canvas from Frame

The next step of mold cleaning is to separate all the parts. Take the frame off the canvas and lay the canvas flat.

3. Clean Back of Painting

The back of the painting is the easier side to clean. Mist it with a rubbing alcohol and water solution and then gently wipe off the mold.

4. Clean Front of Painting

The front of the painting is tricky because it's best to do it without chemicals. The easiest way to clean it is by letting the mold dry first. Then use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to remove the mold damage.

5. Dry Painting

The sun is the best tool for drying your painting. While prolonged exposure to sunlight can damage it by altering colors, your painting won't be outside or on a sunny windowsill long enough for fading to become an issue.

Keep in mind throughout the process that mold remediation is often a job best left to the professionals. If you are ever uncertain about a step in the process, it is safer to call remediation specialists to take over the mold cleaning process.

3 Safe Procedures for Light Fixture Leaks

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

Dealing with water in light fixtures can be dangerous, contact SERVPRO for help.

Light Fixture Leaks: 3 Safe Procedures

Light fixture leaks are often a dangerous and inconvenient obstacle that can happen in any home. Ceiling damage can cause water from your roof to leak into your house. Sometimes water can even leak into your light fixtures. It is important to act swiftly with any kind of water damage in your home, and when electricity is involved, the damage can be deadly if left untreated. Whether you are a resident of Asheville, NC, currently dealing with water in light fixtures, or just a precautious homeowner preparing for the worst, these tips for safe and swift action can be lifesavers.

1. Turn Off Electricity

As soon as you notice water leaking from a light fixture, go to your breaker and turn the electricity off right away. You can call your power company and have it temporarily turn off the electricity if the breaker is inaccessible. Avoid touching light fixtures until an electrician checks and confirms that all electrical units are dry and safe. Any contact with an electrical unit that has been damaged by water can cause electrical shock and even death.

2. Turn Off Water

Ceiling damage can show itself in many forms. Sometimes small, dark spots appear on your ceiling where water is pooling, softening and discoloring the materials there. Water can leak into your home from rain water on the roof or even a burst or corroded pipe. Unfortunately, the extent of the damage doesn’t always show itself until it has gotten very bad. If you do notice any of these symptoms, turn off your water to stop any additional leakage.

3. Call a Professional for Cleanup

Contacting an electrician, plumber, and/or a professional cleanup service for water in light fixtures is suggested. Professionals will typically be able to safely cleanup and restore your home to its former state and advise you on how to prevent leaks in the future.

The most important thing to remember is to be safe. Dealing with water in light fixtures can be extremely dangerous, and it is best to contact a specialist for cleanup and repairs.

Black Water: Minimizing the Damage to Your Business

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage to a commercial office in Fairview, NC.

Black Water: Reducing the Impact on Your Business

No one will argue that flooding within any commercial building is a desirable circumstance. Water damage can take a toll on the flooring, walls and any belongings that come into contact with excessive moisture. It’s even more imperative that the situation is quickly and sufficiently tended to if you’re dealing with a black water issue.

Where Black Water Comes From

Oftentimes contaminated by a number of microorganisms and bacteria, this dirty water can infiltrate a building in a number of ways:

• Flooding from storms will often carry contaminants and debris into interior spaces.
  
• The overflow or rupture of sewage or septic systems can leak waste into your business.
  
• Standing clean water can quickly become dirty and contaminated with mold and bacterial growth if left unchecked for a period of time.
  
  

It is especially important to handle the situation immediately if water has appeared inside your building due to any of these circumstances.

What To Do If Your Business Is Contaminated

Mold can begin to form quickly, often within 48 hours, so taking fast action is imperative. Make sure people are evacuated from contaminated areas to limit their exposure to bacteria and mold if water has been left standing. The following steps should then be taken to begin the cleanup process:

• Remove any standing water as soon as possible
  
• Thoroughly dry areas affected by water damage to limit the spread of mold and bacteria growth
  
• Clean all salvageable affected items and dispose of those that can’t be adequately cleaned and disinfected
  
  

When Help Is Needed

Depending on the size of the area suffering from water damage or the level of black water contamination, working with professionals in Fairview, NC, can supply peace of mind that cleanup will be completed properly so that your business can return to normal. Beginning immediate water remediation is the key to quickly bouncing back from a flooding incident.

Important Steps in Mold Remediation in Asheville NC Area

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Mold found after a pipe break.

There are many issues you could find in your home, but few cause more concern and stress than mold. Certain areas of the world are more prone to mold growth, but this unwanted invader can grow in any home, regardless of the location, style, or age. Fortunately, if you discover mold in your Black Mountain, NC, home, there is a way to make things right. Even if you have black mold, with the right steps, you can clean it up, and your home can once more be livable.

Understand the Moisture Issues

Mold doesn’t just magically appear one day in your walls, under or on your floors, or on your roof. It grows because of a moisture problem, so it’s critical to understand how this issue is occurring. The mold remediation process begins by pinpointing where the water issue is coming from and what the source may be. Is it a leaky pipe or a larger plumbing matter? A professional will help identify the root cause and put an end to it so mold growth doesn’t continue.

Assess the Problem and Devise a Strategy

It is difficult to come up with a mold cleanup plan unless you understand the full scope of the problem you face. Find out how much mold you have and which types of mold are present at home in Black Mountain, NC. Make sure you document whether you have black mold, as this is the most troubling form of the fungus. Take pictures and record your findings.

Clean It Up

Enlist the help of a professional to assist in your cleanup efforts. The faster you do mold remediation, the less likely the mold will continue to grow. Here are some critical steps:

• Stop the water issues
• Get rid of damaged items
• Clean the moldy areas thoroughly with a detergent solution.
  
  

If you find black mold or other such mold issues, get professional help right away. With the right actions, you can enjoy your home once more.

Effective Ways To Inform Employees About Mold Containment

7/24/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO for Mold Remediation if you notice evidence of mold and mildew.

Effective Ways To Inform Employees About Mold Containment

Many employers are not sure how or whether to inform employees that the company will be undergoing mold removal. When talking about mold growth and removal, business owners can feel out of their depth. But "mold" doesn't have to become a four-letter word in Asheville, NC. Your employees' perception of safety depends upon whether you provide transparency during the containment process. Communication can prove more beneficial than leaving your team in the dark. You can do this. Here's how:

1. Anticipate Employee Concerns

Most of your staff is probably familiar with media hype surrounding black mold. In fact, the color of mold is not a true indicator of type. A good mold remediation specialist can brief you on general questions people have about mold removal and containment. Armed with the facts, you can address concerns and reassure your workers that their safety is your top priority.

2. Provide Employee Education on Mold Containment

Mold containment is generally necessary to stop mold from spreading. It may involve sealing off an area with plastics, shutting down HVAC or other systems that spread mold via air circulation or even constructing airtight negative pressure chambers. By understanding how mold containment works, employees will often see the positives and understand the process.

3. Keep Employees in the Loop

Periodically issue updates about the changes your employees will see in their work areas as the containment process gets underway. Informal meetings or e-mails can help keep staff concerns to a minimum.

4. Designate a Contact Person

Name a point person in your organization. Make it clear that employees can contact this individual with any questions they may have as containment proceeds.

Take the time to address employee concerns, educate workers about mold removal and issue progress updates. If you do so, your employees will likely feel confident that their safety and their ability to work effectively will not be compromised.

Candle Safety and Alternatives

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

A candle fire is usually started because someone left it unattended.

Tips For Candle Safety and Alternatives

Candles can be fun to use in the home as decorative objects, aromatherapy, or mood-setters. However, they can be dangerous when left unattended. The open flame can easily ignite nearby books, curtains, or other flammable items. This can lead to serious damage and might require a lot of smoke cleanup. To avoid a fire from starting, here are a few tips.

Keep Flammable Objects Away

While burning a candle, try to keep the surrounding area as clear and tidy as possible. The open flame might ignite an object if it’s close enough. Never set the candle near flammable objects. A few examples that are easy to ignite included the following:

• Bedding
• Books
• Paper decorations
• Curtains
• Furniture
  

If these objects are near the candle, you might want to reconsider. A candle fire can get out of hand a lot faster than you might think.

Don’t Lose Sight of a Burning Candle

A candle fire is usually started because someone left it unattended. If you are leaving the room, try extinguishing the candle and relighting it when you return. If you are going to bed or leaving the house, make sure that there are no open flames or hot wicks left without supervision.

Candle Alternatives

Many people use candles for the smell. If this is the reason why you’re using an open flame, consider using wax warmers, reed diffusers, or air fresheners. These alternatives not only smell wonderful, but they can dramatically reduce the risk of a fire starting.

If you are looking for mood-setters, electric candles or tea lights do very well. Powered by batteries, these objects reproduce the flickering light of a candle without the risk of a real flame. Along with these, many people love the aesthetic of fairy lights.

With these tips and alternatives in mind, you can reduce and remove the risk of a candle fire starting. By being aware, you can keep your house in Weaverville,NC safe from fire hazards.

4 Ways Water Damage Can Occur in Your Asheville Home

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

A pipe break can cause serious damage to your Asheville home.

Causes Of Water Damage In Your Home

Homeowners should be aware of the many ways water damage can occur in their homes. When left unattended, water from a pipe burst or leak may require you to call in repair and restoration professionals. To keep your home safe and secure, here are four things you can look for that commonly cause water damage.

1. Malfunctioning Appliances
As your house gets older, so do the appliances. Pipes can rust, hoses can weaken, and the efficiency of your household machines can lower. Deterioration of appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters is a common reason for water damage and flooding. To prevent any sudden disaster, inspect your appliances often.
However, you can’t always prevent appliances from malfunctioning. Water detectors can let you know immediately when something goes wrong. This can help you minimize the damage and clean up the water quickly before the problem gets worse.

2. Bursting Pipes
When sudden pressure occurs in a pipe, there is an increased risk of a pipe burst. This can happen when drains get blocked, toilets get clogged, or when garbage disposals malfunction. Old pipes can burst or leak easily, too. If a problem does occur, shut off the water line quickly and seek professional help.

3. Blocked Gutters
The sole purpose of your gutters is to direct water away from the roof. However, gutters can easily get blocked by leaves, dirt, and branches. This creates a dam in the gutter which prevents water from flowing smoothly down the contraption. When water overflows, it can spill onto the side of the house and soak into the structure.

4. Broken Gutters
Your gutters may not be blocked, but they could be damaged. If there is a crack or break in the material, the water can leak through and cause serious water damage or flooding. You might want to inspect your gutters after heavy storms to check for any damage or blockage.

A pipe burst can cause serious damage. Be sure to keep your home in Asheville, NC, safe and dry by taking precautions against water disasters.

How To Put Out the Grease Fire You Might Have Started

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Weaverville, NC.

How Do You Stop A Grease Fire?

You’ve just moved to Weaverville, NC and your new friends don’t know you very well yet, so they have allowed you access to the kitchen. They’ve even been encouraging you to cook. You want to leave a good impression, so here are the steps you need to take should you accidentally start a grease fire:

1. Turn off the source of heat. Typically, this means turn off the stove your pot or pan is sitting on. If the dial is on the back of the stove, avoid reaching directly over the fire while you do so.

2. Cover with a metal lid or another pot, pan, or even cooking sheet. The idea is to remove as much oxygen as possible from the flame.

3. If you cannot get something on it to cover, throw on baking soda (tons of it) or salt.

4. Use a Class B fire extinguisher as your last resort. If you are unsure of what that is, it is better to simply follow the next step and forget this one.

5. If the fire is taking too long to contain or is larger than you feel comfortable dealing with, get out of the house. Shut the door on your way out to help keep the fire contained, and once you are a safe distance away, call 911.

In order to keep yourself and the rest of your property safe, do not do the following:

1. Use water or any fabrics to put out a grease fire.
2. Use baking powder or any powders that looks like baking soda or salt. They might look the same on the outside but are made of different chemicals and can lead to a less-than-fun chemistry experiment.
3. Try to move the flaming pot or pan.
   
   

As much as you may want to save the cosmetics of the kitchen, safety is always more important than easy fire cleanup. The steps above may help you put the grease fire out sooner and with less damage, but if you have any doubts, you should always follow step #5 first and seek the help of professionals.

3 Reasons Your Sewer May Back Up After a Storm

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Sewage damage in Asheville can require from an expert.

What Causes A Sewage Backup? 

You may not associate heavy waters with a sewer backup. Usually, this type of problem is caused by bad plumbing or blockages in your sewer lines. However, when your Swannanoa, NC, commercial building is filled with sewage after a big storm, you may start to wonder what caused this issue.

1. Overwhelmed Sewer Systems: When lots of water enters the ground all over the city, the city sewer system may become overloaded with water. When this reservoir is full, the liquid has to flow someplace else. This can mean the rainwater pushes the sewage back up into your building. Installing a backflow preventer can help you avoid this unsanitary problem.

2. Storm-Caused Damage: Storms can cause trees to fall down and other major damage. While this destruction doesn't seem to have anything to do with your sewer backup, it could in fact be the cause. If a downed tree were to break a sewer line, it could cause the dirty water to seep back into your building. Line breaks are a major cause of sewage loss. Having your system inspected regularly can help you spot and fix weakened areas before they become a problem.

3. Rain-Induced Clogs: Blackwater can carry foreign objects into your sewer line. Heavy rain, for example, could pick up rocks, twigs and lawn ornaments. As the water flows to the nearest drain, the items it carries end up getting stuck in sewer drains and lines. These clogs cause the sewage to start to flow backward back into your building. It can be hard to prevent this type of issue.

No matter what causes a sewer backup, it is never a fun problem to have. The unsanitary conditions of the water require you to call in a commercial restoration specialist who has dealt with sewage problems in the past. Without help from an expert, you may be unable to completely resolve the problem.

How To Tell the Difference Between Mold and Mildew

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

Mold found after a pipe break.

How Do I Know If It's Mold Or Mildew?

Although many people use the words mold and mildew interchangeably, they're actually not the same thing. While they're both a type of fungus, they have several distinct characteristics. Here's how you can tell the difference between mold damage and mildew growth in your Asheville, NC home.

Appearance and Odor
Mold and mildew differ in appearance, making them easy to tell apart. Mold can come in several different colors:

• green
  
• red
  
• black
  
• blue
  
  

In contrast, mildew tends to be either white or gray. In addition, mold is usually raised and appears slimy or fuzzy, while mildew is flat and appears powdery.
Furthermore, mold and mildew differ in their odor. Mildew has a musty smell that can be reminiscent of damp socks, while mold tends to smell more powerful and pungent.

Areas of Growth
While mold and mildew both grow on natural materials like wood, leather or paper, temperature affects which type of fungus will grow. Mildew will usually grow at temperatures ranging from 77 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit, while mold grows at temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The reason why mold damage is harder to remove is that it burrows underneath surfaces, while mildew growth tends to occur surface-level.

Removal Process
A significant difference between mold and mildew is how to remove each. Although normal household cleaning products and a scrub brush can be used to get rid of mildew, it can be trickier to treat mold damage. Some species of mold can be eliminated using cleaning products such as white vinegar, Borax or bleach, while others will require professional assistance. Contacting mold remediation specialists can help you remove insidious mold growth in your Asheville, NC home.
Understanding the main differences between mold and mildew is key to both eliminating it and preventing its recurrence. Using this guide can help you to determine whether your home is experiencing mildew or mold growth.

3 Tips for Preventing Winter Storm Damage to Commercial Structures

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage to an office building due to a broken pipe.

Steps To Prevent Winter Storm Damage To Your Commercial Property

A winter storm has the potential to cause as much storm damage as a thunderstorm. Sleet, ice, wind and snow all pose risks to structures. There are some actions that can help prevent or mitigate the negative impacts of blizzards, snow squalls and other winter weather events on commercial buildings.

1. Winterize Exposed Pipes and Faucets
Sudden temperature drops may result in a pipe break, which can, in turn, lead to a water catastrophe that requires the services of a professional cleanup service in Barnardsville, NC, to handle. Insulating exposed pipes and outdoor faucets and taps can keep them from freezing and bursting. First, the water valves connecting to them need to be shut off and any attached hoses disconnected and stored in a sheltered location. Second, the water needs to be drained out. Finally, protective pipe insulation needs to be wrapped around each pipe and faucet.

2. Clean the Roof and Gutters
It is important to clean debris and gunk out of gutters before a winter storm. This will allow liquid to drain properly in the case of freezing rain. It is equally important to remove snow and ice from both the roof and gutters after the event. A pileup of packed snow can collapse the roof, and even if it doesn't, when melted it may cause mold and other damage. Water can also freeze in the gutters, creating ice dams whose weight can pull them off.

3. Caulk Cracks and Openings
Small holes and cracks around windows and other areas can allow cold air to seep in. Even indoor pipes may freeze if chilly winds enter the structure, lowering the temperature. Doing an inspection of the building and reapplying and applying caulk to any areas that need it can help prevent this.
A winter storm can cause a great deal of trouble if appropriate measures are not taken. Pipes exploding and roofs falling in are very real possibilities that can be warded off with a little extra work, so it is important to keep a close eye on the weather and prepare for severe incidents.

3 Tips on Pet Fire Safety

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Place a Window Cling to alert firefighters about pets within your home in case of a fire.

Keep Your Pets Safe In The Event Of A Fire

Emergency personnel worldwide agree that a carefully devised fire escape plan is necessary for all homeowners. Not only is it critical to account for your human family members, but preparing a plan for your animals is important as well. Follow these simple steps to keep your household pets safe in the event of a fire emergency.

1. Practice
When practicing your fire escape plan, make sure to include your pets. Pet preparation is essential, so ensure you have the proper precautions in place for your furry friends:

• Emergency supply kit
  
• Collar with name and contact information
  
• A place to stay if evacuation is required
  
  

Make it a routine to grab your pets when you gather your family and head out the door during a fire drill. Repeating actions helps make your escape feel second nature when panic ensues.

2. Pet-Proof Your Home
Family pets are often responsible for igniting house fires. Pet-proofing your house in Biltmore Forest, NC, ensures both pet safety and fire prevention.
Many animals possess incredibly inquisitive natures. As such, they curiously investigate any open flame, stove knob, or culinary appliance. Avoid a fire emergency or the need for fire damage assessment by pet-proofing your kitchen and smothering any candles or open flames before leaving the house.
If you are the proud owner of a puppy or another young pet, keep it secure in a gated room or crate when you are away. Baby animals' mischief knows no bounds, so ensure both of your safety by keeping them enclosed and away from fire hazards.

3. Cooperate With Firefighters
Make firefighters' jobs uncomplicated by providing them easy access to your pets. Keeping your animals close to an entrance ensures their safe recovery in the event of a fire. Furthermore, place leashes and collars in locations that are simple to find. Entry closets or garages are handy places where emergency workers may look to locate pet paraphernalia.
With practice and preparation, you can avoid the catastrophes created by a housefire. Always include pets in your fire emergency plan to keep your entire household safe and secure.

Preventing Mold After a Flood

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Use fans and a dehumidifier to increase evaporation speed and reduce moisture in the air.

How Do You Get Rid Of Mold After A Flood

Faced with flooding, business owners in Barnardsville, NC, have another worry to add to the list: mold growth. Since mold spores are always around, the aftermath of excess water provides an ideal environment for it to flourish. Immediately addressing the issue is essential to minimizing its spread.

Fast-Growing Fungus
When mold has moisture, a food source and a warm, humid environment, it can start to grow in 24 to 48 hours. The longer it sits, the increased chances of it spreading to another area. If the issue isn't taken care of, new colonies have the potential to form throughout the property. Below are a few ways to prevent mold growth.

If the outdoor humidity levels are lower, open the building to increase airflow and ventilation.
Remove saturated items, especially absorbent materials, such as ceiling tiles and paper.
Begin extracting any standing water.
If safe to do so, use fans and a dehumidifier to increase evaporation speed and reduce moisture in the air.

Professional Help
While those steps may help minimize it from spreading, getting the right help is essential for proper cleanup and avoiding future issues. This is especially important if the excess water came from a sewage backup or natural flooding. This type of water will also have bacteria and other contaminants that require additional safety measures for cleanup. When choosing a certified water and mold damage company, you get peace of mind that they will adhere to industry standards, have the tools and techniques to restore your business, and use an array of methods to clean and salvage as much as possible.
Although it may be easy to focus on all the extra water, mold growth needs to be a top consideration after any kind of water issue. Acting fast and finding the right expert to handle it makes it faster and easier to get back to "Like it never even happened."

Handling the Immediate Aftermath of a Commercial Fire

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Dealing with the aftermath of a commercial fire can be confusing and panic-inducing.

Fire Restoration And Claim Success

Dealing with the aftermath of a commercial fire can be confusing and panic-inducing. Most people, if they're lucky, never experience a fire disaster. However, as a manager or business owner, if you do experience such a disaster, it is crucial that you understand what to do following the event. There are at least three steps that you should take immediately following the emergency to ensure fire restoration and claim success.

1. Contact Your Insurance Company
When the fire department leaves the scene, the first thing that you should do is contact your commercial insurance provider. You will need to explain the circumstances surrounding the event and officially request to file a claim. Your fire insurance policy agent should schedule an insurance adjuster to come out to the site and review the damage. Depending on the severity of the incident, it can take a few days or more for the adjuster to arrive.

2. Contact a Restoration Service
You should not hesitate to hire a remediation or restoration company in Buncombe County, NC. Waiting can lead to more damage, and that is likely damage that your insurance company will not cover. A significant job of a restoration service is mitigation, meaning to stop further problems from developing. On contact, the restoration service should send out a project manager or team to inspect your facility and come up with a recovery game plan. The service will also work with your insurer to help protect the claims process.

3. Take Pictures for Proof of Loss
If your facility is accessible and safe to walk through, you should go around and take pictures of the damage and equipment loss, some equipment is likely salvageable through smoke cleaning. Additionally, you want to find receipts or any evidence of past purchases to show the insurance adjuster when they arrive for their investigation.
A commercial fire is a terrifying experience. It is normal to feel out of your depth during a rare personal experience. However, it is also necessary to keep your wits about you and follow standard fire restoration protocols to ensure business recovery.

How To Clean Up After a Fairview Sewer Backup

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure to turn off the electricity to avoid shocks or fires.

Sewage Cleaning Process

A toilet overflow can be terrible already, but in the case of a clogged pipe and sewage backup, it's much more severe. In addition to potentially causing extensive water damage and secondary damage, sewer water is also extremely unsanitary. You must get the sewage cleaning process underway immediately to avoid as much loss as possible.
Whether hiring water damage cleanup experts or doing it yourself, here's the typical cleaning process after a water disaster involving sewage:

1. Wear Personal Protective Equipment
It's essential to wear PPE while you're handling the cleanup process. The most critical PPE are rubber boots, coveralls, gloves, a respirator and goggles.

2. Shut Off Utilities
Utilities must be shut off before the work begins. This includes electricity, gas and water. If you can't safely navigate to the breaker box or gas shutoff, a professional should be called out to do it. Electricity can flow freely and dangerously through a room where electronics are in the same area as the standing water.

3. Extract Standing Water
A wet/dry vacuum can be a tremendous help during the initial phase of the sewage cleaning process. It can safely, quickly and efficiently extract standing water and smaller debris.

4. Remove Contents
Remove as many belongings as possible from the affected area. Then, separate salvageable items from unsalvageable. Anything that can't be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized and entirely dried within 48 hours may have to be disposed of. Carpet and upholstered furniture are commonly unsalvageable after this type of disaster. Sections of drywall also typically have to be cut out and replaced.

5. Clean and Disinfect
Use a low-suds detergent to clean the area as thoroughly as possible. Don't forget tiny crevices and higher areas where dirty water could've splashed. Then disinfect everything with a sanitizing solution.

6. Dry
Finally, it's critical to dry the entire area and all contents fully within 48 hours; mold can begin growing quickly. Open windows and doors and use dehumidifiers, fans, heaters and exhaust ventilation fans to remove the humidity.
When your Royal Pines, NC, home sustains damage from a toilet overflow, you must begin sewage cleaning immediately. Quick remediation helps to avoid extreme damage.

Choosing a Large Loss Response Company

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial flood damage in Buncombe County, NC.

Choosing a Large Loss Response Company

If your business experiences catastrophic loss, you need to choose the right company to handle the situation. There are a few things that you need to look for when deciding on a company. Here are some different things to look for when choosing a large loss response company.

Look for a Company That Can Handle the Job
Catastrophic loss requires the best disaster restoration company in Buncombe County. Only top-notch professionals can respond to the largest losses. These companies have special supervisors trained to handle the operation, ensure seamless communication, and keep the mitigation on track. These companies also have trained technicians who specialize in different areas of commercial restoration. By putting together a team like this, you will be in professional hands and have fewer unexpected costs associated with a smaller company trying to perform this work. Some businesses that should look for a larger company include:

• Hospitality businesses
• Apartments or other commercial properties
• Universities
• Government buildings

Check Out Their Past Clients
Whether you are dealing with hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, or flooding, it is crucial to make sure the company you choose has experience. Once you find a company that can handle a large loss situation, you need to research them. Check out the company's background in the industry. Look at their past clients and see if any compare to the size of your company. Also, make sure some catastrophic loss situations match yours. Whether you have wildfires, hurricanes, floods, or blizzards, look for a comparable situation so that you know they have the experience necessary to handle your disaster.
When dealing with storm damage and large losses in a commercial setting, it is important to find a restoration company that can handle your situation. To find the right company, look for one with experience with your type and size disaster, so you know they have the relevant experience necessary to get the job done.

Steps You Can Take To Avoid Major Plumbing Issues

2/17/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Montreat, NC.

Implement The Following Four Steps

When a pipe breaks or the toilet overflows, are you prepared to handle the chaos? Do you know who to call? Was there something you could have done to stop the event from happening? Plumbing problems often start small, exacerbating overtime when permitted to linger. Commercial owners in Montreat, NC may not know the signs to look for or how to minimize the travesty. There are ways to do that, but it requires some organization and proactive measures. To avoid a wet mess, owners should implement the following four steps.

1. Remain Aware
A broken pipe likely starts with a tiny crack or pinhole. Proprietors need to remain vigilant about the lines, keeping an eye for anything that changes or is concerning. Make it a habit to walk the property at least once a month. Look at the foundation, walls and ceiling, checking for changes in formation. These alterations could indicate water intrusion. In addition, assess sinks, commodes and appliances, ensuring the work property and do not have any leaks.

2. Rely on Professional Inspections
Don't fix it yourself. Instead, have the name of a specialist who handles plumbing problems. Ask other business owners who they have used, having the information handy. Schedule a yearly overview of your building to see that it's up to code and flowing correctly.

3. Mend Small Problems Immediately
A water main break is a mess. Massive amounts of fluid saturate the rooms, ruining your merchandise and fixtures. This can shut down an establishment until a water remediation company completes repairs. To avoid craziness, tend to concerns immediately. Spending the money on a small repair could save you from a shutdown or major overhaul job.

4. Upgrade the Facility's Lines
During your annual check-in, consider any recommendations, especially about changing parts or enhancing the plumbing structure. Older pipes can become fragile, breaking easily. Paying for sturdy material could reduce the probability of a catastrophe.
Your eyes and your schedule are essential in warding off plumbing problems. Be mindful of what's going on with the structure. Catching things early is a game-changer.

Fire Damaged House

2/14/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage in an Asheville, NC home

As a homeowner you know, a fire on your property in Asheville, NC is one of the most difficult realities to face.  Unfortunately, a fire can destroy the structural integrity of your property as well as your personal possessions within a very short period. When you consider the physical and financial losses that fire damage can cause, it is easy to see why many homeowners fall prey to emotional trauma afterward. To ensure that you would be able to grapple effectively with fire, if one occurs in your home, consider the helpful information outlined below:  

What Causes Fire And Fire Damage? 

Fires result from several chemical and thermal processes involving three basic elements: oxygen, a flame or spark(heat), and fuel. This type of chemical reaction is exothermic, that is it releases heat. The fuel sustains the fire and also gives it the materials necessary to facilitate combustion. Some combustible materials include rubber, plastics, cardboard, paper, and wood. These sound like building materials. For a fire to start, a heating component must come in contact with combustible material. The heating element will then warm the material to the point of ignition. At this point, the material will explode or ignite. 

The Effects of Fire Damage

When your house is affected by fire, the damages caused can be very costly. This is especially the case if the fire adversely impacts the structural integrity of your property. If the damage is severe enough, a professional restoration company like SERVPRO may work for weeks or months to return your Asheville home to its former condition. If smoke and fire coat your possessions and home in a substantive layer of ash and soot, removing the debris can be very difficult and demands a high degree of expertise. Additionally, the water used by firefighters to extinguish the flames in your house can generate water damage. This water compounds the fire-damaged interior of your Asheville home.

Hiring A Professional Fire Repair and Restoration Company  

In many cases, homeowners want to take care of the cleanup and home restoration processes for themselves. However, the extensive damage caused by fires makes it advisable to hire a professional company like SERVPRO. Fire and smoke damage are especially destructive. The damage caused can destroy valuable items, deplete financial assets, and cause emotional trauma. Additionally, homeowners will often have a large number of responsibilities to handle during the aftermath of a fire. Hiring a professional restoration company is the way to ease the burden of responsibilities and out-of-pocket expenses while also ensuring that the restoration process flows professionally and smoothly. Look for a company that focuses on restoration rather than replacement as the first option.

Conclusion 

Although dealing with the aftermath of a fire can be difficult, attaining professional assistance can help you restore your residential property to its former condition.  SERVPRO takes pride in its expert technicians on consistently working with dedication and determination. You will receive the best remediation services on the block. 

Why Mold Keeps Coming Back and What To Do About It

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Mold found after a pipe break

The second you discovered mold growth under a potted plant in the corner of the office, you jumped into action. You removed the plant, deep cleaned the area, and replaced the carpet. But a few months later, you noticed a mildew smell in the same spot. The mold is back! Repeat efforts gained the same result—returning mold. Now what?

Reasons Mold Returns

Mold is everywhere—indoors and outdoors. Spores settle in places where there are high humidity and moisture. If mold continues to return to the same spot, it is likely a sign of a leak or more extensive water damage than you previously realized. Although you replaced the carpet under the plant, the subfloor could be holding moisture. There could also be a leaking pipe behind the wall near the plant where mold is happily continuing to grow.

How To Prevent Mold Regrowth

Long-term mold prevention might require some effort and expense upfront. The most important thing to know is that mold is very difficult to clean entirely without the proper training and tools. Therefore, the very best option for getting ahead of mold growth is to call a commercial mold damage specialist in Black Mountain, NC to come and evaluate your building.

Evaluation: The professionals will use special tools, such as thermal imaging cameras, to look for potential leaks behind the walls.
Containment: They will seal off the affected area and clean thoroughly.
Removal: Any damaged materials will be securely removed from the premises to prevent the spread of mold spores.
Restoration: Areas that have damage will be completely restored. This could be as simple as new drywall after fixing a leak, or a more extensive reconstruction of an area that is susceptible to continued water damage.

Battling mold growth, whether in a small area or a large one, is a big job that is best left to the professionals for the long-term benefit of your business.

Reasons for Noisy Pipes

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

If you have encountered a broken pipe you should fix it right away

Reasons for Noisy Pipes

Water damage is a common concern for homeowners because of the rapid and costly damage that ensures from a pipe break or other water issue. With the fear of repairs lurking in their minds, many homeowners worry when they hear strange noises coming from the pipes. While some concern is normal, most noises stem from three fixable problems.

1. Loose Connections
The primary cause of whistling from faucets is not a pipe burst. Instead, the likely culprit is a loose or worn-out washer. You can often correct the problem by tightening the little screw in the handle of the faucet. However, if the noise is coming from multiple sinks and it does not matter which faucet is open, you may want to call a plumbing specialist in Fairview, NC, to have a look.

2. Faulty Ballcock
If you hear a rushing or hissing sound, do not immediately bring the alarm for a pipe break. Many hissing sounds stem from toilet appliances. The most likely cause is a loose or old ballcock in the toilet tank. If you replace the mechanism in the tank, the problem noise should correct itself. If the noise persists, it can speak to another problem deeper in the system, so you would likely want to have it assessed.

3. Rapid Cutoffs
There is one noise that could suggest you need to fix the broken pipe or resolve the problem quickly. If you hear hammering or banging when turning on or off the water supply, you have a rapid shutoff occurring in the system. The constant banging can cause loose connections or leaks if left unresolved.
While homeowners worry about a pipe break or sudden water damage, there is often little to fear from the noises in your pipes. Sounds only indicate that something requires your attention, but that doesn't always equate to costly and time-consuming repairs.

How a Fire Extinguisher Can Reduce Property Damage

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

When using a fire extinguisher, remember to use the PASS method

Once a fire has started in your business in Black Mountain, NC, it is important to take fast and appropriate action. The size of the fire will determine in part how to act. If it is a large fire, your actions will be limited to helping evacuate the building and calling the authorities to put out the blaze. With a smaller fire, though, there may be an opportunity to stop the flames before they get out of control. The first step is to locate the fire extinguisher. If you do not know where one is, look around your building for bright markers that indicate the presence of the device.

The Benefit of Stopping a Small Fire

You can easily save your company thousands of dollars in fire damage by putting out an incipient fire. If you put out the fire early enough, you will limit or reduce three types of damage:

• Smoke damage
• Soot damage
• Water damage

You might even be able to prevent a shutdown of your company caused by extensive damage to the building. When using a fire extinguisher, remember to use the PASS method: pull the pin, aim at the base of the fire, squeeze the handle, and sweep from side to side. Stop when the fire is completely out or use all of the extinguishing agents and then vacate the premises.

The Benefit of a Professional Cleanup and Restoration
Whether your company is the victim of a kitchen fire or something larger, it is a good idea to call in the services of a professional fire remediation franchise in your area. No matter the situation, a team of highly-trained workers will come to the site and perform cleanup and restoration services. It is the quickest and most comprehensive way to get your building back in shape after a fire. Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher and knowing who to call after a fire are two important aspects of dealing with fire.

3 Benefits of Storm Shutters

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Installing storm shutters can be one of the best ways to protect the glass in your windows and doors

Three Benefits When Making Your Purchasing Decision

If your home is located in an area that experiences frequent high winds due to hurricanes or other severe storms, it may be beneficial to install storm shutters. 

1. Prevents Windows and Glass Doors From Breaking
Shutters protect windows and glass doors from wind, rain, and debris during storms. This protection makes it less likely that the glass may shatter, allowing flying debris to enter your home. It also increases safety and lowers the chance that you or your insurance company will need to pay to replace the glass due to storm damage. Your insurance company may offer a discount on your premium because of this. The opportunity for wind-driven rain to enter your home is also reduced, which can avoid substantial water damage that may require professional water mitigation in Montreat, NC.

2. Easy To Operate
Storm shutters can be opened and closed by one person, making them an easier option for protecting your home against high winds than other methods, such as boarding up your windows. Additionally, they are more useful for protection against sudden storms that you may not have time to prepare for in other ways. Once you have your shutters closed, you can spend the time you would have spent preparing your windows on other storm preparation.

3. Increases Your Home's Resale Value
Unlike temporary protection measures, shutters add value to your home. Adding storm protection features can be a good selling point for a home that is located in a region that experiences frequent strong storms.
The high winds from severe storms and hurricanes can cause significant damage to your home. Because of these three benefits, installing storm shutters can be one of the best ways to protect the glass in your windows and doors from being damaged during storms, creating a safety hazard and allowing wind, rain, and debris to enter your home.

3 Tips for Preventing Persistent Mold Growth

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

It is well worth the trouble to stop by your local home goods store and pick up a dehumidifier.

Three Steps To Prevent Recurring Mold Growth In Your Commercial Building

You might think there is nothing peskier as a business owner than the first mold growth in your building — but what if it keeps coming back? Especially when you don't catch the problem early, getting rid of mold can be a nasty obstacle, even worse when it is a persistent growth. There are lots of factors that might contribute to a persistent mold problem, such as:

• high humidity
• water damage
• poor ventilation

While there are a few simple steps you can take to reduce the risk of fungus growth, once it sets in, you will need professional help to clear it out. Luckily, SERVPRO of Asheville, NC, will clean it up "Like it never even happened." Here are three tips for preventing recurring mold growth in your commercial building.

1. Invest in a Dehumidifier
If the natural high humidity or lack of ventilation in spaces like bathrooms and basements is contributing to your mold problems, it is well worth the trouble to stop by your local home goods store and pick up a dehumidifier. This nifty machine will suck the extra moisture out of the air in your building, thereby depriving mold spores of the environment that they need in order to grow.

2. Don't Wait With Water Damage
In the event of a flood or a pipe break, it is crucial to call in your local water damage restoration professionals right away. Mold can grow on almost any wet surface and will start to spread in as few as 24-48 hours.

3. Get Professional Mold Removal
With mold, looks can be deceiving. If you try to remove mold growth yourself, it may look like it's all gone, but in reality, invisible spores probably remain and are ready to start spreading again right away. Only professional mold removal techniques will truly remove the problem and prevent further growth.
Don't forget, though, even if the existing growth is removed, mold spores are everywhere in the air, just looking for a warm, moist environment to take root.

How To Maintain Fire Sprinklers and Prevent Accidental Discharge

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Have your fire sprinkler system inspected annually

Ways To Keep Your Sprinklers Running Properly

Fire sprinklers can save your building from major damage during a blaze. However, sprinklers do come with a small risk of accidental discharge.
Sprinklers can activate in the absence of a fire. This, in turn, can cause major flooding to your Swannanoa, NC, property.
Luckily, with proper sprinkler maintenance, you can prevent your fire protection system from harming the premises. 

1. Keep the Sprinklers Clean
Grease and dirt can build up on the sprinkler heads over time. This is especially common in commercial kitchens. If the grime gets really excessive, it could end up close to the sensitive bulb in the middle of the sprinkler. This bulb is what activates the sprinkler system.
To prevent accidental discharge, you thus need to keep the bulb and the surrounding sprinkler head free of any debris. Use a non-corrosive, non-residue solution to wash the sprinklers regularly.

2. Remove High Objects
Similarly, any tall items or stacked books can inadvertently set off a sprinkler if they get too close to the bulb. As part of your sprinkler maintenance, you should store these assets away from the fire protection system. Fire service experts may be able to suggest an alternative location for the supplies.
A ceiling painter can also accidentally bump into the sprinkler bulb, sending water gushing into the building. This is another reason to avoid painting the sprinkler heads.

3. Have the Sprinklers Inspected
A fire service expert should look over your sprinkler system once a year. The professional can locate any corrosion or pipe problems that could cause the sprinklers to malfunction.
Fire sprinkler maintenance is fairly simple. You just need to keep the sprinklers clean, avoid placing items near the bulb, and have the system inspected annually. Still, excess heat from cooking equipment or mechanical damage to the sprinklers can cause the water to discharge accidentally. If this happens, your local emergency cleanup company can restore your building.

The Dreaded Persistence of Smoke Odors

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Biltmore, NC

A home fire is an unpleasant experience for anyone. If you witness flames eating away at your home, it is not a sight you are likely to forget soon. Another disappointing aspect a fire is how hard it is to completely clean. Successful smoke cleaning of your home takes knowledge, training and equipment. This is a job that goes beyond ordinary cleaning and calls for the services of a professional fire restoration franchise. Trained technicians have the equipment to rid your home of soot. They have the expertise to replace damaged structural items. They will also secure your home from additional damage from weather and vandals in the aftermath of a fire.

Dealing With Odors

One of the hardest things to remove from a home after a fire is a smoke odor. That is because the odor penetrates deeply into items such as clothing and furniture and even into walls and carpeting. To remove the smells associated with smoke, professional smoke cleaning uses the following advanced equipment:

• Air filtration devices
• Ozone machines
• Thermal foggers

They also use cleaning agents vetted by the restoration industry. The end result is the removal of odors from your home in Biltmore, NC.

Handling the Smoke Damage
Your home isn't completely restored if you can still smell even a trace of smoke. Even areas of the home that were distant from the actual fire will pick up some residue of persistent smoke. Soot can also travel a long way and coat walls and many other items. For these reasons, smoke cleaning is a complicated process. Additionally, water damage is often present due to the efforts of firefighters. This makes cleaning a home after a fire a multi-pronged process that involves many areas of expertise. When the job is completed and you smell the freshness of your home again, you know that everything will be all right.

Four Reasons Why Your Toilet Might Be Leaking

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Leaking toilet in Asheville, NC

What To Do When You Discover A Toilet Leak 

If you find a pool of water in your bathroom in Asheville, NC, every time you flush, you might have a leaking toilet. This is not an uncommon problem, and there are a few reasons why it might be happening to yours.

1. A Broken Seal
If there is a pool of water forming at the base of your toilet every time you flush, one of the most common reasons for this is a broken seal. Toilets connect to a pipe opening in the floor called a toilet or closet flange, and the watertight wax seal that keeps them together can eventually dry up and break.

2. Rusty Pipes
Another reason you might have a pool of water around your toilet is rusty and cracked pipes. To check to see if the leak is coming from your pipes or a broken bottom seal, dry up the water on the ground, flush, and note if the water comes from underneath the toilet or from the pipes in the back.

3. Condensation
Sometimes what looks like a leaking toilet really isn't a leak at all. If you notice water on and around the bowl of your toilet, it might simply be condensation from the humidity of your bathroom. To check if this is what's happening, pay attention to when the water forms, as condensation is most likely when you're running a hot shower.

4. A Crack
Even the tiniest cracks in your toilet's tank or bowl can let out enough water to be noticeable. Trace the water back to where it's coming from and then repair your toilet as quickly as possible so that it doesn't grow into a larger, more damaging bathroom leak. If this does happen, however, make sure you quickly call a water damage remediation company to ensure your floors and walls are fully repaired from the damage.
When you discover a leaking toilet, be sure to assess why it's leaking as quickly as possible. This will help you repair your toilet and prevent further damage from occurring.

5 Steps for Controlling Mold in Your Home

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

It's important to maintain low humidity

Steps To Prevent Water Damage From Becoming Mold Damage

Have you ever been surprised by a leak in your home or been the victim of flood damage? If you find yourself with unexpected standing water in Asheville, NC, it's important to take the proper steps to prevent water damage from becoming mold damage.

1. Act Quickly
If you discovered the leak and acted on it within a day or two, you likely won't experience mold growth. Leaks or spills that go unchecked can wreak havoc on your home. Never assume that a small leak equals no damage.

2. Dry Thoroughly
Once you've discovered and stopped the source of the leak, everything needs to get as dry as possible. If you can safely use electricity, a fan or heater can help to speed up the drying process. Keeping windows and doors open also helps to circulate air and dry wet areas.

3. Control Moisture
Especially in basements and other areas prone to wetness, it's important to maintain low humidity. This can often be solved through the use of a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier is a great mold prevention tool because it ruins the environment in which mold likes to grow. Check windows, gaps under doors, and foundations as well to make sure that water isn't coming in other ways.

4. Check Pipes
If water damage was caused by a pipe that leaked or burst, take the time to check your other pipes. Inspecting your pipes, especially in the winter, is a good way to help prevent further problems.

5. Call for Help
When you're unsure of the extent of mold growth in your home, it's a good idea to call a local mold remediation specialist. A professional can help you assess the extent of damage that has occurred, contain it, and clean your home so that's it's safe for your family.
Water damage that gets ignored causes mold growth and problems for your home. Prevent mold damage by acting quickly whenever you discover a leak.

How Standard Insurance Can Help Your Business After a Hurricane

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial storm damage in a Royal Pines, NC office

Here Are The Ways Insurance Coverage Can Help

Experiencing a hurricane in Royal Pines, NC, can be difficult for a business, and the financial consequences can be devastating. These storms have the ability to cause massive amounts of damage to a building, much of which may be impossible for a temporarily closed company to pay for directly. If your business ever experiences hurricane damage, here are the ways insurance coverage can help.

Wind Damage
Depending on your location and policy, your storm insurance can cover different ranges of damage. These are possible coverage situations:

• Only damage specifically stated in the policy is covered.
  
• Only wind and hail damage is covered.
  
• Any damage that isn't denied in the policy is covered.
  
  

Most policies cover wind damage caused by a hurricane. Aside from the range of coverage, there is a monetary difference as well. Many states and providers have specific deductibles for hurricanes (deductibles being the out-of-pocket expense policyholders pay before the insurance steps in). These deductibles are usually in the form of percentages, which means the property owner must pay a fraction of the storm damage restoration expenses.

Water Damage
A substantial number of property issues caused by hurricanes involve water damage, particularly if the storm occurs near the coast. Unfortunately, storm insurance providers often fail to cover flood-based expenses. Even if your property sustained damage from both wind and water, the wind issues may be all that's covered. This is important to check on before a storm hits. If your business is near a coast, it may be essential to find a policy that covers floods caused by hurricanes.
Understanding your storm insurance policy is vital for a commercial property owner. Hurricane policy requirements are different for every state, so be sure to research which one applies in Royal Pines, NC. If you should ever experience a hurricane, this information may be crucial to know for the sake of keeping your business going.

Insuring an Apartment for Fire Losses

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Apartment fire in Black Mountain, NC

How Much Coverage Is Needed

Many renters incorrectly assume they'll be covered by their landlord's policy if anything happens to their apartment. However, landlords generally take out coverage for the exterior and interior of the building, but not for the contents of the individual apartments. In the case of an apartment fire, for example, the landlord's policy would likely cover fire damage to the building but not a tenant's furniture or belongings. Knowing how much coverage is needed can help renters choose an appropriate policy.

Selecting Coverage
Renters can make a list of personnel items and their value to help them decide how much coverage they need. They should consider the following factors when buying a policy:

Basics like smoke damage or water damage are generally covered. Check for natural disaster exclusions to determine if separate coverage is needed.
Roommates are typically not covered. They will likely need their own policy.
Renters should keep documentation of items and proof of their value, like receipts. This helps when filing an apartment fire claim.
College students may be covered by their parents' homeowner's policy as dependents but should read the policy carefully before assuming this.

The amount of coverage tenants need to depend on the value of their belongings. Some policies also include loss of use, meaning they offer reimbursement for expenses while a renter is unable to use the apartment due to damage. For example, renters may not be able to inhabit their places in Black Mountain, NC, after a fire while the landlord hires cleanup and restoration services to do their job.

Filing a Claim
If there is damage to or loss of personal property, renters should look into filing a claim. Determining whether to file depends on the value of the item, the amount of the deductible and how much the claim will affect the premium.
Obtaining insurance coverage for an apartment fire ensures that a lessee's valuables are covered. Individual needs vary, but reading policy documents carefully and shopping around can help renters find the best coverage for their needs.

Understanding Water Damage Classification

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Montreat, NC retail store

How Water Damage May Be Assessed

Unexpected expenses are bound to pop up in any business. Water damage from a broken pipe or flooded home is one such expense. Water pipe repair, property repair and restoration by a professional restoration service in Asheville, NC, can all add up. Thankfully, hiring professionals who work with your insurance company can help reduce those costs. How much you spend on repairs can depend on the category and class of water damage, as well as other factors. Here is a brief introduction to how water damage may be assessed.

Categories
Water damage may be sorted into three different categories based on the water’s level of contamination and the risks created by how dirty it is:

• Category 1 damage is caused by "clean water," or water from a non-contaminated source that does not carry the potential to significantly harm human beings. "Clean" water sources include bathtubs, water supply lines, sinks, melted snow and rain.
• Category 2 damage may be attributed to "greywater." Water that is considered "grey" has a significant amount of contaminants like mold and bacteria that are capable of causing illness or discomfort in those who touch or swallow it. It has the potential to become Category 3 water and may come from washing machines, dishwaters and other dirty sources.
• Category 3 damage results from "black water," which is highly toxic and dangerous and flows from unsanitary sources like sewers or runoff contaminated floodwaters.
  

Classes
There are also four classes of damage based on the predicted rate of water evaporation: slow evaporation, fast evaporation, fastest evaporation and specialty situations.

Other Factors
Other factors that determine the level of water damage and how much you might pay for water pipe repair and other repairs include mold, the size of the affected area and location.
The level of water damage to your business plays a significant role in how much you will have to spend on expenses like water pipe repair, so it is important to have the damage assessed by professionals.

How To Properly Prepare for a Flood

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

Dangers such as flash floods can cause lasting damage to your home in Fairview, NC

Keep Yourself Safe In Such An Event

Any type of severe weather can pose problems, but when facing a flood, there are a number of potential issues that can occur. Dangers such as rising flood water and flash floods can cause lasting damage to your home in Fairview, NC. Since these disasters can come quickly and without warning, it's important to make sure you're prepared to keep yourself safe in such an event.

Stay Alert
Knowing the emergency alert systems in place for your area can help you identify when a flood is coming. There are three major emergency alerts that can help you during a natural disaster:

Wireless Emergency Alerts: These will show up on your phone as a notification. Make sure WEAs are enabled in your settings.
Emergency Alert System: The EAS is a national public warning system but can be used by local authorities.
NOAA Weather Radio: This is a national network of radio stations that can deliver weather information.

Create a Plan
Creating a shelter plan, exit plan and communication plan can all help you be more prepared for a flood.
Consider putting together an emergency kit, too. In the event of a flood, it's dangerous to walk, swim or drive through flood water, meaning you may be on your own for a few days while you wait for rescue. Gather items such as a three-day supply of food and water, a first-aid kit and a flashlight.

Protect Your Home
A flooded building or home can cause water damage. If you're aware of a flood threat, take precautions to keep your home and possessions safe. Move valuables to a higher level so they don't get swept away, put important documents in waterproof covers and clean out drains and gutters. In the event of significant damage, call a storm restoration company.
There is a lot of potential damage that a storm can do to your home and your family, so it's important to prepare beforehand to protect yourself from flood water and damage.

5 Common Hiding Places for Mold

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Swannanoa, NC

Check The Following Hiding Places For Mold

Mold can be difficult to control once it gets inside your home in Swannanoa, NC. As soon as you feel like you've finally gotten rid of the spores, the mold returns. Dealing with this persistent little fungus can be a real headache, so your best course of action is to make the proper preventative measures. Performing regular home inspections is one of the best ways to prevent mold damage. Make sure you're checking these common hiding places during your next inspection.

1. Your Bathroom
Mold thrives in damp, humid environments, which, unfortunately, includes your bathroom. Almost every appliance in your bathroom is capable of producing water, from your sinks and toilets to your shower and tub. Make sure to check these places thoroughly and often.

2. Your Kitchen
Your kitchen is almost just as capable as your bathroom when it comes to producing a mold-friendly environment. Additionally, not-so-fresh food items are common victims of mold growth. Make sure that you clean out your refrigerator regularly to help prevent unwanted mold damage.

3. Your Basement/Attic
These areas are at an especially high risk if they're unfinished. Musty basements with exposed piping are also extra vulnerable. Make sure that you're checking for mildew growth in these darker corners of your house.

4. Your Household Plants
Overwatering your plants is an easy way to invite mold and mildew. The excess water that sits on the soil and leaves serves as a perfect fungus breeding ground.

5. Your Bedroom
Your mattress can potentially fall victim to mold growth if you tend to keep the house a bit more humid. It's also possible to find mold growing on your windows, especially if they're prone to additional condensation.
A good rule of thumb to remember is that mold tends to arrive wherever there's excess water. Keeping your house dry and maintaining proper humidity levels is a good way to prevent mold damage. If your house does fall victim to a mold infestation, it's important that you contact mold remediation experts as soon as you can.

What To Do If You Notice Water in Your Crawl Space

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

Keep mold from growing in your crawl space by adding a vapor barrier

The crawl space under your home is probably not an area you visit very often. However, it should be inspected periodically to see if moisture problems have developed. A wet crawl space is something every homeowner in Biltmore, NC, should be concerned about. Keep in mind that “wet” can mean anything from slightly damp ground to standing water.

Determine the Cause of the Moisture

Start with the most obvious potential causes of moisture. Hopefully, you can identify the problem at this juncture. If not, continue investigating other, more obscure possibilities. Here are several things to look for:

• Weather-related flooding
  
• Clogged roof gutters or poorly positioned downspouts
  
• Running water near the crawl space opening
  
• Clogged drainage pipes
  
• Broken water or sewage pipes
  
  

Many of these causes can be determined by visual inspection. If necessary, get help to inspect areas inaccessible to you.

Take Appropriate Action To Remedy the Problem
Determining why the moisture problem exists is the first step in remediation. Next, you’ll need to apply the correct solution.
In many cases, a wet crawl space problem can be resolved by directing water away from your home’s foundation. Proper sloping and drainage are essential to ensure your crawl space stays dry. If your home is closely located next to a neighbor’s home, proper drainage along the fence line can also minimize the chances of runoff water seeping into your crawl space.
In the event of a flood, you may need a sump pump to remove standing water and direct it to an area away from your home. Less commonly, a break in the water line leading to your home or in the sewage line leading away from the home may require city crews to make repairs. Depending on the severity of the problem, the services of a professional cleanup and damage repair company may be needed.
A wet crawl space should never be ignored or minimized. Inspecting this area of your home on a regular basis can help you spot problems before they become serious and require costly repairs.

4 Reasons To Board Up Your Home After a Fire

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

Board up services in a Weaverville, NC home

Why Taking This Immediate Action Is Crucial

The aftershock of a home fire can leave you wondering what to do first. One task that must be completed quickly is a secure board up of all damaged windows and doors. Here are several reasons why taking this immediate action is crucial and will benefit you later.

1. It can prevent additional damage. Gaping windows and doors allow wind, rain, and animals to enter the building, making the aftermath of disasters worse. Many homeowner's insurance policies require an emergency board up to prevent any further destruction to your home and its contents. Not taking this action may result in a decreased payment or a rejected claim from your insurance company.

2. It can deter theft and trespassing. An open door or window at an unattended property is a invitation to vandals and thieves. It is important to board up all accesses to your house and keep your property secure. The loss of your home is bad enough without your surviving possessions becoming easy pickings.

3. It will lessen the risk of injury — and of liability. Fire damage compromises a structure’s stability and can create a dangerous situation inside the home. The interior may have damage from firefighters’ water or flame suppressants. It is important to keep others out of harm’s way by closing off the building until it is declared by an authority to be safe to enter.

4. You don't have to do it yourself. After a fire, you have enough things on your "to do" list. You can cross the emergency board up off by hiring a fire restoration company that will do it for you. These professionals provide a speedy response and will properly install the correct materials to stabilize the entrances to your Weaverville, NC, home. What's more, their expertise includes the additional remediation services of fire damage cleanup and restoration to make the process of recovery less stressful.
After a fire, it's wise to board up your home for a variety of reasons. Whether you do it yourself or enlist the help of trained professionals, it's the best way to prevent further damage to your residence.

4 Factors to Consider Before Buying Commercial Insurance

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

Key Elements to Consider When Buying Commercial Insurance

A reliable insurance policy can save your Swannanoa, NC, business if a fire ever causes damage to it. Before you invest in insurance, however, it’s crucial to ensure that you know exactly what to expect from your policy. Here are some of the key elements that you should consider when you make the decision to buy commercial insurance.

1. Location of Your Business

The area in which your business is located is a big determining factor in how much your insurance will cost. In many cases, the size of the city or town is directly related to its level of fire protection. Buildings in bigger towns and cities tend to have better fire protection and therefore require business owners to pay less for insurance. Smaller areas may lead to higher insurance costs due to poorer protection.

2. Safety

The cost of insurance is also determined by the building’s level of safety. A high number of hazards in a building usually translates to higher insurance costs. These higher rates are primarily due to the overall fire rating of the business. A low rating indicates inadequate protection, which means business owners will be charged more for commercial insurance.

3. Structure

The structure of a commercial building also plays a significant role in its fire rating. The way in which the building was constructed determines how vulnerable it is to a fire and the resulting damage. Relevant aspects of a building’s structure include:

• Materials (combustible vs. fire-resistant)
• Recent additions/remodeling
• Interior elements (e.g. wood floors)
  

The aspects of a building’s structure contribute to its overall safety and are therefore considered by insurance companies.

4. Availability of Fire Equipment

Making all of the fire equipment in your business easily accessible is crucial to the safety of your building and employees. Be sure that your fire alarms, fire extinguishers and sprinklers are up-to-date and functioning properly. It’s also vital to have an emergency plan in place that everyone in your business is familiar with.
Having commercial insurance is only the first step towards protecting your business. If you’re facing any kind of fire damage, don’t hesitate to call an emergency restoration company for help.

3 Tips To Keep Your Business Mold-Free

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Keep humidity levels low

Tips To Keep Mold From Growing

Are you taking the mold prevention measures to keep your building safe? Mold is a much more common problem than you probably realize, partly because it is so adaptable. You may find it in such varied places as:

• Drywall
  
• Ceiling tiles
  
• Insulation
  
• Upholstery
  
• Paper products
  
  

If left unchecked, mold damage can grow into an enormous problem for your business, so it’s always worth putting in the work to catch a mold growth early — or even better, stop it from ever forming. Some cases may require mold remediation professionals, but here are a few tips to keep mold from growing in the first place.

1. Watch Out for Moisture
In Royal Pines, NC, it’s always a good idea to use an air conditioner or dehumidifier to keep humidity levels low. To take your mold prevention to the next level, consider purchasing a humidity meter and checking it a few times every day.

2. React Fast to Leaks and Floods
Leaks, floods, and other water damage create the perfect environment for mold growth. Mold will start to grow on a wet surface within two days, so it’s crucial to act fast when disaster strikes and to patch up the tiniest leaks.

3. Be Careful With Carpets
Because carpets trap moisture and are difficult to dry out, it’s a good idea to avoid installing them in environments that are especially prone to moisture such as bathrooms or basements. If you have a carpet that gets soaked, you must either thoroughly dry it right away or simply remove it altogether before mold begins to grow.
Mold prevention is a critical precaution to take to protect your commercial building, but high humidity, water damage, and moist surfaces such as carpets are just a few of the many causes of indoor mold. Keeping these factors to a minimum is an important first step and is well worth the trouble.

4 Benefits of Working With a Restoration Company After Water Damage

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in Barnardsville, NC

Benefits Of Working With A Professional Franchise

It is definitely not out of the question that your business in Barnardsville, NC, will at some time experience a water problem. You might need a pipe burst cleanup or services related to a sewage backup. Water problems are among the most common issues that companies face. They can be especially difficult to handle. They also can easily cost a business owner thousands of dollars in damages and expenses. Therefore, calling in a qualified water restoration company is a smart move. Here are some of the benefits of working with a professional franchise.

1. They Arrive Faster to Any Size Disaster. A broken pipe in your building qualifies as an emergency. You want a company that can arrive on-site quickly and get right to work mitigating the problem. A professional team can usually arrive at your building in a matter of hours. This doesn't give the water much time to spoil the walls, ceilings, and flooring.

2. They Excel at Pipe Burst Cleanup. An experienced restoration company has seen it all. Technicians will be able to deal quickly with the mess from a burst pipe. A sewer cleanup company will treat the situation safely for its workers and for the employees and customers of your business. The workers know that dirty water contains potentially harmful pathogens. Workers will don PPE as they go about the cleanup process.

3. They Follow High Standards. The cleaning and restoration industry publishes the best practices for cleaning properties impacted by floods, leaks, and other water problems. A professional cleaning company will follow these standards to ensure effective cleanup.

4. They Complete the Job. A complete pipe burst cleanup treats all facets of damage. The technicians will make sure all the water is removed and that secondary impacts are addressed. This could entail replacing damaged drywall and insulation as well as making sure your property is free of mold and mildew.

Mitigating the Risk of Hail Damage to Your Commercial Roof

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Hail damage on a roof

When severe weather strikes in Asheville, NC, one of the associated risks it brings with it is hail. Roof damage caused by hail costs property owners over a billion dollars in repairs annually. There are some things you can do to reduce the likelihood that hail will cause damage to your roofing system.

Know Your Roof

The better you know your roof, the easier it will be to spot signs of potential damage. You should watch for the following:

• Cracked shingles
  
• Missing shingles
  
• Loose or missing materials, including flashing
  
• Peeling materials
  
• Clogged or damaged roof drains
  
• Tree limbs hanging over your roof
  
  

Repair and maintain any signs of damage or threats you identify. The better shape your roof is in, the better it will be able to withstand the onslaught of hail and the less likely you'll be to experience roof damage.
If you do experience extensive damage from hail and other associated weather risks such as high winds, never attempt to assess the damage yourself. There could be associated dangers of which you are unaware. Hire professionals who are trained to assess and restore damage to commercial buildings.

Reinforce Structures on Top of Your Roof
You may have additional equipment that is housed on top of your roof. This could include HVAC equipment and solar panels. These items are susceptible to hail damage when they aren't properly equipped to withstand hail's force.
If your HVAC equipment isn't made to withstand the impact of hail, you can install protection around your HVAC unit. This might be hail guards or wire mess. Hail guards allow air to flow freely and can be designed to cover any outdoor equipment that needs extra protection.
Prior to purchasing solar panels, if you are in a hail-prone zone, you should research to make sure the panels are impact-resistant.
When hail strikes, your property doesn't have to be a sitting target. There are precautions you can take to mitigate potential roof damage and property loss.

What To Expect With Water Damaged Electronic Repair

8/15/2020 (Permalink)

Here Are a Few Factors to Determine if Your Business Electronics Can Be Repaired

If your Fairview,NC, business has experienced water damage you may also be dealing with flooded electronics. Fortunately, many water damage restoration professionals have the ability to restore some electronics based on the damage type and severity. Here are a few factors they may look at to when determining if your businesses electronics can be repaired.

1. Length of Time in the Water

The length of time an electronic has spent in the water can be a factor when considering if it can be restored. The shorter the exposure the more likely a successful restoration can be done.

2. Water Category

When determining the degree of electronic damage, the water category may also play a part. Black water is considered to be contaminated and any exposed electronic device should probably be replaced. Clean white water, however, does not present the same danger.

3. Degree of Damage

The exact amount of water damage to flooded electronics may also be a determining factor to if you should consider replacement over restoration. The less damage your electronics have suffered the more likely they can be restored.

4. Type of Electronics

The type of electronic may also be a contributing factor. Electronics with a removable power source maybe easier to salvage. It's also important to consider what types of components the electronics have when making this determination.

5. Manufacturer Recommendations

In some cases the manufacturer may have specific instructions on what to do if an electronic device gets wet. It's important to consult these recommendations so that the correct procedures may be followed.

If your business has any flooded electronics you may be able to talk to your water damage restoration expert about the possibility of restoring them. The restoration may depend on the length of time and water category, as well as the amount of damage and the type of electronic you're looking at. The manufacturer may also have additional recommendations.

How do You Know if Mold is Affecting Your Home?

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Black mold found in the wall of a home

While some mold problems are obvious, others can be harder to detect. Mold is present in almost every environment but thrives once a source of additional humidity is introduced. A serious infestation can insidiously damage structures while avoiding detection in the recesses of your home. If you suspect you may have an outbreak, you should contact an indoor environmental specialist experienced in performing mold inspection as soon as possible.

Where to Look

Mold can look like dirt or rust. However, the location of a buildup can provide clues to rule out innocuous substances. Mold growth frequently occurs in locations where moisture can accumulate without drying for extended periods of time. Some good places to check for the presence of mold include:

• Low areas beneath sinks
  
• Showers
  
• Carpets
  
• Windows
  
  

Any surface that has been subject to flooding, leakage or steam damage might also become host to a growing mold colony that requires attention.

Other Signs
Mold gives off a distinct, musty odor. Generally, a noticeable smell only occurs in areas where significant buildup has already begun. If there is no airflow between affected spaces and your living quarters, you may not notice any unusual odor. You should be aware that even places with no noticeable mold can be infested, requiring attention before serious structural damage is done.

Testing
While home mold test kits are available to determine whether there is mold in your house, all environments have some amount of growth present. An indoor environmental specialist can determine if the most problematic types of mold are living in your home and help decide whether an infestation requires immediate removal.
Having mold contamination in Montreat, NC, can be extremely worrying. You may have heard stories that make significant mold growth sound like the worst thing that can happen to your home. By contacting an indoor environmental specialist, you can set your mind at ease and find out if further action is necessary.

How To Know if Flood Cuts Are Necessary

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

A flood cut requires a tear out of drywall to clean the contaminated area behind it

A flood can be devastating for a home. Homeowners who are the victims of an unprecedented storm often rely on professionals to restore their living spaces. Experts can clean up the damage from flooding using proven techniques such as flood cuts.

What Flood Cuts Are

It’s appropriate to implement flood cuts in the following situations:

• Large amounts of water are in an area of the home.
  
• Water contains pathogens or bacteria.
  
• Moisture has negatively affected the walls of a home.
  
  

A flood cut requires a tear out of drywall to clean the contaminated area behind it. If left untreated, then a home may begin to suffer from rotting, mold and unpleasant smells. Professionals aim to restore a home to pre-flood condition in as little time possible. Flood cuts are an effective way to get to the source of an issue when less invasive methods don’t work.

How To Implement a Flood Cut
Restoration experts in Royal Pines, NC, have the right tools to do a safe flood cut. The first step is to remove the water flooding the area. They wear safety gear that allows them to come in contact with any contamination. Homeowners should not come close to flood water. Restoration often requires them to avoid areas such as their basement or living room until cleanup is complete.
Next, the professionals make a cut in the wall 12-18 inches above the water damage. They rip out the drywall, address any mess behind it, and put in a replacement wall.
Of course, there are other methods of cleaning a wall that doesn’t require cutting, such as injected drying that can still fix the damage. The experts can decide the approach that is best for a home.
Residential flood restoration is crucial for communities hit hard by a storm. It’s possible to restore a home suffering from even the most severe flooding so that its residents can again enjoy it to the fullest.

3 Strategies To Minimize Commercial Fire Damage

7/17/2020 (Permalink)

3 Strategies To Minimize Commercial Fire Damage

Every businesses in Black Mountain,NC, should develop disaster preparation plans that incorporate a variety of situations, including a potentially serious inferno. Because of the unpredictable and destructive nature of this peril, adequate fire preparation is essential to safeguarding your building's structural integrity and minimizing financial losses. Employing three key strategies can help you avert an extensive fire damage restoration project.

1. Maintain Fire Sprinkler System

Your building’s fire sprinkler system is a vital safety feature. However, corrosion, damaged pipes, improper calibration and inadequate water pressure may impede its ability to function properly. To minimize the risk of a serious malfunction, complete an annual inspection.
Keeping sprinkler heads clean and clear of potential obstructions are also crucial. Never stack items on high shelves near the ceiling and avoid painting heads. You should also routinely clean them with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime buildup.

2. Keep Fire Extinguishers Accessible and Usable

Fire extinguishers are another example of valuable fire preparation devices. To facilitate easy retrieval, mount extinguishers in accessible areas throughout your building. You should also post visible signage indicating their location and ensure staff keep those spaces clear of obstructions.
Like your sprinkler system, portable suppression devices require routine inspections. During every evaluation, verify that the gauge is in the green and vital components, such as the nozzle, handle and pin, are intact and undamaged. Promptly replace units with a red gauge or compromised pieces.

3. Train Staff on Fire Suppression Techniques 

Knowing how to use an extinguisher is also important. To ensure your staff react appropriately, train personnel on the PASS protocol.
To engage the device, pull the pin. Then, aim the nozzle at the base of the flames. Squeeze the handle and employ a sweeping motion to smother the inferno.

Although you can minimize the risk, no commercial facility in Black Mountain,NC, is immune from the threat of a potential inferno. Completing proactive fire preparation steps can, however, facilitate a prompt response, which may reduce the extent of fire damage.

How Fire Sprinklers Are Activated in a Fire

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Install a fire sprinkler system in your Black Mountain, NC business

Fire sprinkler systems are one of the most efficient ways to quickly handle a fire before it gets out of hand. Investing in sprinklers for your business in Black Mountain, NC, is a wise choice. They can save you a lot of money and hassles when a fire breaks out. Let’s take a look at how sprinklers work.

Sprinklers Detect Heat

It's important to understand that sprinklers are not triggered by smoke. Many people think that if they burn their toast it will activate the sprinkler system. Some also worry that the system can be triggered accidentally. These cases are very rare, however. Instead, when a blaze ignites, the following reactions take place:

• Air above the fire becomes hot very quickly.
  
• The hot air rises to the ceiling and reaches a sprinkler head.
  
• The glass bulb in the fire sprinkler head is filled with a liquid that contains glycerin. As the liquid heats, it expands.
  
• The expanding liquid shatters the glass around the sprinkler, activating it.
  
• A pipe that connects to the water source is attached to each sprinkler head. The sprinkler system is pressurized so that water sprays out in an arc.
  
  

Sprinklers Minimize Water Damage
Fast fire suppression is the key to minimizing this damage. When a fire occurs, only the sprinkler heads directly above the fire are activated. In most cases, a fire can be extinguished with only one or two sprinkler heads. Since they can douse a fire with much less water than a fire department's hose, this results in much less water damage.

Damage Cleanup Takes Place After a Fire
Once the fire is extinguished, call an expert to conduct a fire damage assessment. Specialists can not only handle fire damage but also take care of the fire sprinkler cleanup quickly and safely.
Install a fire sprinkler system in your business right away to avoid excessive damage to your property.

Why Hire a Commercial Restoration Company for Water Damage Cleanup

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the IICRC which is the fundamental and premier certification for disaster cleaning

Why Hire a Commercial Restoration Company for Water Damage Cleanup

Sometimes companies do not understand the potential sewer damage risks, even when they see evidence that something is wrong. Frequent toilet overflows, while common in commercial businesses, can be a sign of sewer problems. It is necessary to diagnose any potential issues and resolve them before assuming that an overflow is an onetime occurrence. As a business owner or insurance adjuster, there are several reasons to recommend or hire a professional restoration company for water damage cleanup:

Certification
Expediency
Damage control
Restoration

Certification
Any sewage company, like SERVPRO, in Fairview, NC, should have certification to clean your type of disaster. For example, SERVPRO has the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification, which is the fundamental and premier certification for disaster cleaning.

Expediency
As a business owner, you know that any interruption is unwelcome. Therefore, only hire a company willing to make your cleanup a priority. SERVPRO promises to be Faster to Any Size Disaster, and that is not just a slogan.

Damage Control
You need to work with a company that does more than surface cleaning. SERVPRO assesses the damage to find the underlying cause. Only by resolving the cause can the professionals guarantee your satisfaction. Whether your building's flooded toilet results from a simple clog or significant sewer damage, they will make sure you do not have any further issues.

Restoration
No disaster relief is complete without a restoration. You need your business to return to normal as quickly as possible, and that cannot happen if you have holes in your walls and water shut off. SERVPRO will make sure your property is restored to pre-disaster conditions.
When you need a disaster relief specialist, a company built on reliability and fast recovery, look no further than SERVPRO. Whether you are dealing with a single leak or significant sewer damage, turn to technicians who are the best in the field.

The Categories of Contaminated Water

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

The Categories of Contaminated Water

Although all water leaks into a home are serious, not all leaks are the same. In fact, many different scenarios can play out when it comes to water damage in Royal Pines, NC. This is why it pays to seek out the services of a qualified water mitigation franchise no matter the issue. Trained workers have the ability and equipment to assess each situation and tailor a plan to remove excess water and to restore the house back to good condition. In the case of contaminated water, the workers will make sure the scene is safe and they will don PPE to protect skin and eyes from exposure to harmful substances.

The Three Levels of Water

When it comes to leaks into a home, it's good to know the source of the water. Professionals categorize water by how clean it is. The following shows the main categories:

• Category 1 water is potable water that comes from a clean source and poses little risk to human health
  
• Category 2 water is contaminated water that comes from such sources as washing machines and dishwashers
  
• Category 3 water could come from a flood, a toilet overflow, a sewage backup or another dirty source
  
  

Category 3 water is also known as black water because it often looks dark. This type of water should be cleaned up as fast as possible by professional techniques that adhere to the standards of the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification body.

The Necessity of Quick Action
Whether water damage originates from a supply line that carries clean water or from a sewage line that holds contaminated water, a fast response is crucial. A local company can be at a home in as little as a few hours working to mitigate the problem. Certified workers, specialized equipment, and experience are all needed in the effort to limit damage to a home.

Safely Extinguishing a Grease Fire

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

A grease fire in your home can be scary, even if it is a small one

A grease fire in your home, can be scary, even if it is a small one. If one occurs, quick action is the key to keep the fire from spreading. The moment the fire spreads beyond the cooktop, safety should be the top priority. Get out of the house and call 911. While the damage may seem daunting, having a fire and smoke damage restoration specialist take care of it is worth everyone getting out safely. If the fire stays contained, some household staples can be used to put out the fire.

Do’s and Don’ts

Fire loves more heat and oxygen. Turning off the gas or power on the stuff should be the first step. Covering the pot or pan with something non-flammable, such as a lid or baking sheet, may help smother it. If that doesn’t work, below are additional steps to take.

Grab the extinguisher, but only if it is a Class K one. This type is designed for grease fires and doesn’t contain agents that may make the fire worse.
Throw salt or baking soda onto the flames. Salt can absorb the heat, and baking soda will release carbon dioxide, which helps smother the fire. There’s a good chance a lot will be needed. Ensure it is being applied from the top and not the sides.
Never swat at flames with flammable items, such as a towel or apron. Even a wet towel can make the flames jump to curtains or other areas of the kitchen.
Never use water, flour, baking powder or sugar to put out a grease fire. They can make the fire worse and more likely to spread.

Safety First
If the grease fire feels overwhelming and not dying down, immediately call 911. Although fire cleanup is messy and frustrating, safety should also come first. First responders have the know-how to contain and extinguish a fire, as well as when it is safe to return to your home.
Finding a grease fire on your stovetop makes it easy to panic. Staying calm and thinking about the right way to put it out makes all the difference.

What To Do When a Storm Damages Your Roof

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Roof collapsed in a Fairview, NC

Has a storm damaged your roof? If so, it’s best to act quickly. If left too long, a minor roof repair can turn into a major one.

Assess the Damage

After a storm with high winds, hail or heavy rain, be sure to inspect your roof for damage immediately. Here are some things to look for:

• Curled, lifted, missing or broken shingles
• Dented gutters or downspouts
• Gutters clogged with shingle material
• Missing or torn flashing around the chimney
• Water stains on the ceiling or walls of your top floor
  

Request an Inspection
If you suspect you have roof damage, contact a licensed roofing contractor in Fairview, NC, and schedule an inspection right away. Make sure they take photos and provide a written inspection report for any potential insurance claim. It’s wise to schedule any roof repair as quickly as possible. For extensive repairs, a storm damage restoration company can manage the cleanup.

Take Action
Heavy winds can lift shingles and break the waterproof seal, potentially causing leaks that could damage your attic insulation and dramatically increase your energy costs. If water has leaked into the attic, make sure that the areas get dried out, and replace any damaged materials. A timely repair can spare you from repeating this process.

Be Proactive
Protect your roof from wind damage caused by flying debris or tree branches. Prune trees so that limbs can’t reach the house. If you’re in an area that is prone to high winds, make sure there aren’t objects in your yard or patio area that could damage your roof or break windows.
If you don’t address the need for a roof repair when you discover it, you risk causing further harm to both your roof and the structural integrity of your home. A trained roof inspector can find problems that might otherwise go unnoticed, which will save you money in the long run.

Prevent Water Damage During New Construction

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent Water Damage During New Construction

New construction in Black Mountain, NC, increases the potential for water damage, and this can cause quite a few problems for commercial property owners:

• Delays in completing the project
  
• Increased costs for things such as water pipe repair
  
• Increased debris removal loads
  
• Damaged reputations of involved professionals
  
  

The right preventative steps can reduce the risks.

Pre-Construction Steps
During the pre-construction stage, professionals should run quality control reviews, such as going over plans and specifications, reading through contract documents to find areas of risk regarding water infiltration, and testing the proposed plans for water drainage.

Quality Assurance Procedures
As construction moves forward, it's important that a full-time quality director oversees procedures, as well as developing quality assurance protocols and enforcing them. This includes oversight of any subcontractors. For example, policies regarding the quality of materials can help prevent any broken pipe scenarios. Another example is the creation of a list of issues to review on a weekly basis, such as monitoring the quality of any completed water pipe repair.

Ongoing Inspections and Assessments
Frequent and consistent testing is vital to the prevention of damages, such as a flooded worksite. Water tightness testing, for example, should be performed by a roof testing expert with modern techniques. Low areas in the roofing and other flat surfaces can lead to puddling and water damage as construction materials absorb moisture. Fire protection systems should also be tested according to NFPA 13 standards.

Final Steps at Project Completion
When post-construction tasks are carried out, it's important to assign certain team members to respond immediately as issues are identified. Areas of particular vulnerability include unsecured building openings, building envelope systems, site drainage areas, water delivery, and drainage systems, subsurface drainage, the foundation, and structural elements.

When Prevention Fails
From completing any necessary water pipe repair to consistently inspecting the property for areas of vulnerability, all efforts toward preventing water damage can prevent delays and increase profits. When damages occur in spite of your efforts, water damage remediation professionals can help you get back on track.

3 Steps for Targeting Black Mold in a Commercial Setting

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Fixing roof leaks quickly can prevent mold damage on your ceilings

Steps To Take If A Roof Leak Happens

Leaks are a common inconvenience, but what happens when a ceiling leak becomes something more? Black mold is one effect that can wreak serious havoc on your Montreat, NC, commercial property. Here are three suggested steps to take if, or when, a roof leak happens.

1. Understand Where the Damage Has Occurred
Mold is a simple organism; it requires very few materials to fuel its quick growth. Water is the first source it relies on to thrive, but it also feeds on organic material that is found in your walls and carpets. Less commonly known is the fact that things found in the air, such as skin flakes and dust, are other products that can feed mold in a humid environment.

2. Ask Yourself How Long It Has Been Since the Leak Began
The CDC suggests that black mold can begin to form within the first 24-48 hours following a roof leak or other accumulation of significant moisture. It is important to know what timeline you are dealing with. If you are unsure, it is best to have a professional take a look. Fixing roof leaks quickly can prevent mold damage on your ceilings.

3. Contact a Mold Remediation Service
Mold is not an issue that you have left to face alone, nor is it one that you should face alone. Mold cleanup can be tricky, and depending on the level of mold damage you have, it might be impossible to know where to start. Fortunately, there are mold removal professionals that have the advanced remediation techniques and equipment necessary to clean your property efficiently and safely.
Getting back to business, as usual, doesn't have to be complicated. Knowing these few simple steps can keep black mold from stopping your business. While property damage is never something you want to occur, trust that there are professionals who can help in the event that something does go wrong.

Protecting Your Business With Fire Insurance

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

With the proper fire insurance policy, you will be able to breathe a little easier

Reasons You Should Choose Appropriate Fire Protection

As a business owner in Biltmore, NC, safety is a top concern. It's important to consider all aspects of protection when planning for your business – including fire insurance. While dealing with insurance policies may not be your favorite task, this is a crucial part of keeping your assets safe. Fire damage can require lengthy and costly repairs, but having proper insurance coverage can help mitigate issues with the fire restoration process. Here are some reasons you should choose appropriate fire protection.

Commercial properties commonly sustain damage caused by fires.
Water, foams, powders, and other fire-fighting materials can cause property damage.
Flames, smoke, and heat from fires can damage your building and your building's contents.

Choosing a Fire Protection Policy
When choosing property insurance for your business, be sure to discuss whether fires and other perils are covered. You need to have the full value of your belongings insured in the event of a catastrophe. If you undervalue your assets, you won't be able to recover the true value of your property, and you may incur penalty fees, too. To be sure you have enough coverage, you can hire an experienced appraiser to assess the value of your assets. Having sufficient fire insurance to cover losses will help you recover from a devastating event.

Recovering From a Commercial Fire
Should your Biltmore, NC, business suffer loss from fire, it's important to act quickly. Once the flames are eliminated, you will need the expertise of a professional remediation team. Fire restoration gets your property back to its preloss state as quickly and safely as possible. The restoration process may include smoke cleanup, odor removal, electronics restoration, water damage remediation, and more, depending on the severity of the disaster.
Facing fire is stressful. With the proper fire insurance policy, you will be able to breathe a little easier, knowing that your business and property will be restored as soon as possible.

A Tight Building Envelope Is Essential to Prevent Water Damage

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

The most important role of the building envelope is control of the flow of air, water, and humidity

The first line of defense in preventing rain damage is a functioning building envelope. Also called a building enclosure, it consists of all the components of the outer shell of a building and is designed to be a physical barrier against the elements. Typically, this includes the

• Roof
  
• Walls
  
• Windows
  
• Outer doors
  
• Foundation
  
  

The Envelope Has 3 Basic Functions

Not only does the enclosure prevent moisture from entering, but it is also an integral part of the support structure, especially for commercial properties. These buildings tend to have more of a skeleton frame, so the outer walls are often even more important to structural integrity than for residences.
It’s also the part of the building everyone sees, so aesthetics plays a key role. With today’s focus on energy savings, a pleasing exterior must also include a finish that is energy efficient.
However, the most important role of the building envelope is control of the flow of air, water, and humidity. In order of importance, the enclosure should focus on

Presenting a barrier against rain damage
Preventing unwanted airflow but still providing some ventilation
Improving heating and cooling efficiency

A Damaged Building Enclosure Is a Direct Path to Water Damage

Cracks in the foundation, shifting walls, and roof damage can all allow moisture intrusion. While energy efficiency is important, nothing overrides how much damage a tiny amount of moisture can do.
Surprisingly, the leading cause of rain damage from a bad envelope in Swannanoa, NC, is installation errors or bad materials. Therefore, it’s critical that you choose a reputable contractor when having a commercial building erected.
Over time, all building envelopes will develop small openings that allow water damage. This can cause black mold to grow, further damaging building materials. Once you suspect the enclosure has allowed moisture intrusion, you need a professional flood cleanup company to inspect for leaks and hidden damage. They can tarp and board the building to prevent further damage, locate and fix the leaks and then restore your building to its ideal condition.

Tips for Cleaning Mold in Your Home

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

You should call mold remediation specialists immediately

Tips for Cleaning Mold in Your Home

If you recently had a water emergency in your Weaverville, NC, home, you should check for house mold. Mold growth occurs quickly in wet areas, so you need to remedy the situation as soon as possible.
You can handle mold patches yourself if they are less than 10 square feet. First, however, you must make sure you are wearing the proper mold cleanup gear. Do not go near the mold unless you are wearing:

• Long rubber gloves
• Goggles
• A respirator
  

Once you have the appropriate protection, you can start to clean the mold in your home. Below are some tips for this process.

Address the Moisture First

Since mold damage is usually caused by moisture, you first should check for any excess water in your house. Leaks should be fixed immediately, and wet items must be dried completely.
Of course, some areas, such as the bathroom, are hard to keep completely free of house mold. You may have to clean this room more frequently. You can also install a fan or window to increase ventilation.

Clean Thoroughly and Discard Unsalvageable Items

After the water is removed, you can use a mixture of water and detergent to scrub hard, moldy surfaces. Porous items, including carpets and tiles, are tougher to clean. They may have to be thrown out and replaced. Avoid caulking or painting any surfaces until the mold has been removed.
Mold can also affect expensive or sentimental items in your home. You may want to contact restoration specialists to see if they can salvage these belongings.
The above tips should help you remove small amounts of house mold. However, extensive black mold cleanup should only be performed by professionals. If you see a large area of mold on your property, you should call mold remediation specialists immediately.
Experts should also be called in if the mold was caused by contaminated or sewer water. They will know how to get rid of this mold safely.

Simple Strategies To Deal With Water Damage in Weaverville

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Small Drips Can Lead to Big Puddles

Basic Steps to Mitigate Water Damage 

Although water damage is a common occurrence, many homeowners in Weaverville, NC do not know how to manage initial action. Whether your residential property is subjected to water damage resulting from a sewage backup, burst pipe, or a/c condensation backup, knowing which steps to take following the incident is critically important. Immediately limiting the point of water intrusion will lessen the water damage resulting to your home. To get more information regarding how to restore order to your home following a water damage occurrence, consider the following information: 

Shut Off The Source Of Water

When you become aware of a water intrusion turn off your water supply immediately. This could mean turning off the valve at your plumbing fixture, appliance or the exterior source line. Usually, it is a good idea to shut off the home's main water valve. With this idea in mind, be sure that everyone in your household knows where the main shutoff valve is prior to a potential water leak or flood. Shutting off the source of water is important because it reduces the water volume impacting your property. With less water causing damage, there is also less water to be removed. It also reduces the likelihood of water traveling to other areas of the house and the blooming of mold and mildew. By limiting the water damage, the costs of repair and restoration will be less.

Assess the Safety Situation and be Proactive

Prior to entering the area of your home impacted by water damage, you should make sure that the area is safe. To do so, you should be aware of electrical hazards. You may also need to shut off the electricity at the main electrical panel. After you've determined that the area is safe to enter, proceed carefully. You can mop up any excess water as you wait for the water damage restoration  professionals from SERVPRO to arrive. You can also remove materials that might cause staining on carpets or furniture like pillows and items containing dyes and inks. 

Contact A Water Damage Specialist

Regardless of whether the water damage in your home is small or large, it's a good idea to allow a water damage specialist to inspect and assess the best course of action. A quick phone call will have an immediate response to begin the inspection.The quicker a team of water damage specialists can reach your residential property in Weaverville, NC the greater the likelihood that your home can be cleaned, repaired and restored to its pre-water damaged state. With each day that your water issues go unaddressed, the more susceptible the home becomes to structural damage and mold growth. 

Conclusion 

When your home has been impacted by water damage, it behooves you to restore it to its pre loss condition as quickly as possible. To obtain professional assistance with this endeavor, you should trust the professionals of SERVPRO. Our crews have helped many homeowners restore their property in the greater Asheville East area. These technicians have vast experience in water removal and cleanup. 

We are Cleaning Experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help for your commercial cleaning services.

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 Asheville East-(828) 255-4535.

3 Ways That Storm and Flood Damage Differ

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded entrance of a business in Asheville, NC

After severe weather in Asheville, NC, your building may have some damage. Much of this will likely be from water. While you might think that all water damage is the same, this is not the case. There are some significant differences between storm and flood damage. It is important to determine which has affected your building so that you can proceed in the right way. The following are some ways in which these types of damage differ.

The Originating Source of the Water

One big difference is where the water has come from. In most cases, regular water damage will come from above ground level. This will include rainwater that has entered through windows or leaky areas in the roof. Flood damage, on the other hand, rises up from the ground and will enter the building on lower levels.

The Contamination Levels of the Water

Because of the sources of the water, levels of contamination also vary between storm damage and flood damage. Rain is generally considered to be a clean source, so the damage that results does not involve a large amount of contamination. However, flood water mixes with sewage, dirt, and debris from the ground and becomes black water. This means that it carries significant levels of bacteria and waste with it.

The Cleanup and Restoration Process

The cleanup involved with these types of damage will vary because of the different levels of contamination. If your building has flooding problems, you may need to replace a larger amount of building materials than you would otherwise. Bacteria and other contaminants can absorb into drywall and carpeting, making them difficult to clean.
If you have experienced flood damage, the best way to restore your building to its previous condition is to hire a professional cleanup and restoration company. They will have the training and resources to handle the contaminated water safely. They may also be able to restore some of your affected belongings.

IICRC Certification

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

IICRC certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. SERVPRO of Asheville East has professionals who meet IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

How to Get Rid of Cigarette Smoke in Your Home

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Ozone is one of the most successful ways to eliminate odors in your home

How to Get Rid of Cigarette Smoke in Your Home

If someone in your home smokes cigarettes, you may be bothered by the lingering smell of smoke. Cigarette smoke can penetrate into carpeting, furniture, and even wallpaper. Air fresheners like aerosols and scented oils can temporarily get the smell out of the air, but they don’t get to the bottom of the issue. If you have tried unsuccessfully for months to get rid of that noxious musty air, you need a full home deodorization.

Ozone Generator

Those persistent odors in your home are actually small particles - bacteria and molecules in the air. Types of offensive smells include:

• Cigarette smoke
  
• Molds
  
• Decaying materials
  
• Small house fires
  
  

When those smells permeate the furniture and carpeting, they are very difficult to eradicate. The most successful way to remove annoying odors in your home in Barnardsville, NC, is with an ozone generator. Ozone reacts chemically with those nasty-smelling molecules to break them down and destroy them.

What is Ozone?

Ozone is a gas made up of three oxygen atoms. The air we breathe is actually O2, which has two oxygen atoms. Ozone (O3) has much more energy and is more reactive than O2. This reactivity is what helps break down those acrid odors, but it can also be unsafe unless handled by professionals.

Call a Professional

Ozone in high concentrations is an irritant for humans and pets to inhale. Ozone gas should not be applied while you are present in your home. It is essential to call a professional who is trained to safely operate an ozone generator. If you plan to have a complete home deodorization performed, your family and pets should stay out of the house for at least 24 hours.
Ozone is one of the most successful ways to eliminate odors in your home. Just remember to keep the safety of your loved ones your first priority. It is best to leave home deodorization to the trained professionals who will protect you and your home.

Tips for Using a Drain Snake

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

Drain snakes all perform the same function, but they may vary in operation

Here Is a Guide For Using a Drain Snake

Dealing with clogged pipes in your Biltmore, NC, home is never fun, but it's a crucial task, nonetheless. If you suspect that your home's pipes are obstructed, take action as soon as possible. If too much pressure builds up, it can cause a pipe break. Here is a guide for using a drain snake so you can keep your pipes clean and avoid a costly home repair.

1. Find the right drain snake

Drain snakes all perform the same function, but they may vary in operation. Also called augers, drain snakes are slender, coiled tools that clear clogs in the opposite manner of plungers. Rather than pulling material out of pipes, snakes push into the obstruction and break it up. Drain snakes are long and flexible so they can reach clogs deep inside pipes. Some snakes are handheld; others are drill attachments.

2. Clear the clog

Once you have your drain snake, it's time to clear out your clogged pipes. To start, manually insert the head of the snake into the pipe. Next, use the handle to start uncoiling the snake and continue pushing the snake into the drain until you feel resistance. Go slowly and keep the snake's handle as close to the entrance of the pipe as possible for maximum control and force.
When you encounter the portion that is stopped up, rotate the snake as much as possible. This movement digs into the clog and breaks it up. Continue winding the snake until it uncoils to its full length. When the resistance stops, pull the snake out and run water full-force for a few minutes. If the water moves freely, you have successfully removed the clog.

3. Avoid future stoppages

Keep your pipes clean to avoid future blockages. You can use sink strainers to prevent buildups. If you have a garbage disposal, take care to use it properly. Run cold water while using the disposal and for a minute afterward. This helps ensure that all garbage is thoroughly flushed out of the pipe.
Clearing a clogged drain with a snake can be quite simple. However, some obstructions may require the knowledge and equipment of professional residential cleaners.

What Should You Do if a Pipe Breaks in Your Building?

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage to a Swannanoa, NC retail store

When you lead a company, you try to prepare yourself for anything. This should not only include comprehensive business strategies but also how to protect your employees and make the building where you work a safe place. Disasters such as fires, severe storms and floods can take a toll on people, equipment and the structure itself. If you discover bursting pipes in the office, you need to react appropriately to minimize damage and keep your operations running.

Causes of Broken Pipes

You may not spend much time worrying about the plumbing system in your Swannanoa, NC, building. However, if you neglect maintenance and upkeep, you could find yourself contending with bursting pipes and extreme water damage. The following can lead to these issues:

• Too much pressure
  
• Corrosion
  
• Frozen pipes
  
• Moving pipes
  
  

Identify the Location

Water damage in Swannanoa, NC  is nothing to take lightly. If you discover water on the floors of your office, quickly find the source. If it's a pipe problem, shut the water supply off immediately.

Alert the Professionals

You may not have the time or skill to fix a broken pipe, but a professional water damage remediation team can take care of repairs, cleanup and restoration. You shouldn't wait a moment to get a crew on the job. Cleanup teams can usually respond to your workplace within a few hours of your call. A timely response will reduce the risk of mold growing in the area.

Stay Out of the Area

Ruptured pipes can present a hazardous situation to you and others in the building. Keep away from the water and let the pros take over. If you must be in the building, make sure you do not touch anything electrical if you are near the water.
Bursting pipes can spill a significant amount of water onto the floors and walls of your office. Stop the water and then rely on the pros to successfully complete the restoration process.

How SERVPRO Helps After Disasters

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

Storm equipment ready

How SERVPRO Helps After Disasters

There are times when it's necessary for insurance companies, property restoration professionals, and many other service providers to respond appropriately and efficiently to emergency situations. When this happens, providers from separate industries to coordinate their efforts. To that end, SERVPRO leaders offer important resources such as claim services and emergency response tips for property owners.

Simplifying the Claims Process for Insurance Professionals and Property Owners

When fires or flooding damage buildings, there are a wide variety of individuals involved in the cleanup and restoration. SERVPRO offers several digital resources to simplify the completion of claims.


One of the resources provided is a Contents Claim Inventory Service. This inventory may include photographs and even barcoding. Homeowners, business owners, and insurance agents may use this information.
A Claims Inventory System offers convenient access to a lot of information that adjusters and agents use while filling out paperwork for claims.
Other digital resources connect professionals to specific search results and reduce any confusion surrounding the use of technology.


Professionals are the only people who need additional resources during natural and man-made disasters.

Prepare for Emergencies Before They Occur

SERVPRO also offers advice to home and commercial property owners. Some tips should be followed before an emergency takes place. For example, a three-day kit of water, non-perishable foods, a fire extinguisher, basic tools, a battery-powered radio, flashlight, first aid supplies, personal clothing and hygiene items, and copies of vital documents (such as insurance policies) can make those first days after a disaster less frightening.

Simplify Claims Processes With Tips From Experienced Technicians

Company professionals may also offer suggestions for preparing for claims services. It's important to follow the instructions of your insurance agent for the best results, but suggestions such as documenting the contents of your home make recovering from the disaster easier for you and for your insurance agent.

Cooperation for Better Results

When disaster strikes Weaverville, NC, property owners, insurance agents, emergency responders, and other professionals are all under pressure to resolve an endless list of problems. Fire and water damage remediation and cleanup professionals work cooperatively with other industry leaders to smooth the process of claims services and other recovery efforts.

The Link Between Leaky Roofs and Mold Damage to Your Business

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

Ceiling with mold damage in Asheville, NC

The formation of black mold in your Asheville, NC, business is a serious matter, as it creates several problems, such as building damage, presence of hazardous spores and more. You will need to shut down all mold sources, including an undetected roof leak. Learn about how and when mold forms due to these conditions, as well as how to prevent it.

How Does Mold Form?

The conditions where mold starts are, unfortunately, very simple. Mold needs minimal requirements to feed, develop and thrive.

• Water or humidity
  
• Organic matter (carpet, wood, etc.)
  
• Dark, secluded places, such as an attic
  
  

When a ceiling leak takes place, humidity enters the location. If you do not fix the leak or dry the area, the humidity can lead to a mold situation in the commercial building.

How Long Does It Take?

Another reason to act fast in case of a leak is that most kinds of mold, including black mold, can grow and spread at a very fast pace. When the right conditions are fulfilled, it can take between 24 to 48 hours for growth to take place. Mold spores are everywhere, so the presence of untreated or constant humidity is enough to allow growth. Speedy treatment by mold remediation specialists can stop its development.

How Can Mold Be Prevented?

Cleaning your business to clean mold can be costly and time-consuming. Prevention is the cheapest and least disruptive method. Have a roofing contractor conduct a yearly inspection of the area to check for any repairable flaws before a roof leak happens. If leaks are already emerging, find the source and fix the problem with the assistance of a repair specialist immediately. Use a wet vacuum, towels or a dehumidifier to completely dry the area.
The existence of black mold in your location can harm your building and your reputation. Maintain your roof and search for leaks to stop mold before it starts.

4 Steps for Putting Out a Fire

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

It's important, therefore, that everyone in your building knows how to operate a fire extinguisher

How To Operate a Fire Extinguisher

Your commercial building in Barnardsville, NC, probably comes with its own unique potential fire hazards. Maybe you have a lot of electrical wires that may overload sockets. Your employees may work with a lot of flammable liquids. Even the company break room probably houses several items that could contribute to a fire. It's important, therefore, that everyone in your building knows how to operate a fire extinguisher. These four simple steps can make putting out a small fire easy.

1. Pull

To engage the extinguisher and minimize fire damage, you first need to pull the pin at the top of the handle. This breaks the seal and allows you to operate the handle.

2. Aim

Many people reason that they need to aim for the top of the fire so that the extinguishing agent trickles down. In order to be effective, though, you must aim at the base of the fire. Point the nozzle of the fire extinguisher at the lowest point of the fire.

3. Squeeze

Once you have the nozzle pointed at the base of the fire, squeeze the handle to release the agent. There is usually enough agent in a full-sized extinguisher to put out a small fire, such as a kitchen fire in the break room.

4. Sweep

While the agent is releasing, slowly sweep the nozzle from side to side, covering the whole base of the fire. Keep the nozzle moving until the fire is fully out. If the canister empties completely and the fire is still not out, this is a sign that the fire is too big to handle on your own. Call emergency services immediately.
Even if you are able to put the fire out with a fire extinguisher, you may still have some fire or smoke damage that needs to be addressed. Fire restoration experts can help return your building to its former state.

How Storm Damage and Flooding Can Affect Your Business

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Keep computer files backed up on an external hard drive

Common Areas a Business May Suffer Damages

Experiencing storm or flood damage at a Biltmore, NC, business can have a number of possible affects the property. Fortunately, a local storm damage restoration service can help you recover from these. Some common areas a business may suffer damages include the following:

1. Lost Data

Perhaps one of the biggest fears associated with storm damage is lost computer data. In many cases this risk of this can be offset with the use of a backup system, but if water does cause damage to your electronics, it’s good to know that a restoration service often has professionals who can deal with this problem. In many cases the device itself can be repaired, but in the event it can’t a professional will usually have a way to transfer the data to another unit.

2. Damaged Work Space

One of the most common forms of flood damage is to the building and furniture. In most cases if the water is removed and the area dried quickly, the structure itself will remain usable. In the event materials are too far gone to be salvaged, a restoration service can replace the damaged materials and have the area looking as though the flooding never occurred.

3. Ruined Documentation

Many businesses still keep paper files for a number of reasons. Unfortunately, flooding can result in damage to these valuable documents. You may find it a relief to know that in many cases your local restoration company may have a way to salvage these. This process may involve careful freeze drying and some time.
A restoration service can help your business recover from flood damage. Not only can they make repairs to the building and any damaged office furniture, but in many cases they may be able to help with electronics and documentation restoration as well. If you have any questions a professional may be able to help.

Correctly Snaking a Clogged Drain

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

An auger is a coiled line in a drum body, and it typically has a spiral head on the end

Basic Four Step Process

A clogged drain is a frustrating experience because it often happens when you have limited time to deal with it. For example, you are getting ready for a meeting that you are already late for, and you notice that the bathroom sink won't drain. Thankfully, some brilliant inventors designed a tool for the job, an auger. However, most people call it a snake. It is a coiled line in a drum body, and it typically has a spiral head on the end. While it is not a complicated tool to manage, there is a basic four-step process.

1. Push
   
2. Stop
   
3. Rotate and Push
   
4. Run Water
   
   

Push
It is necessary to clean blockages because if they are left, they can lead to a pipe break, which is expensive to mitigate. Therefore, to free your pipe of this clog, you will begin by extending the coiled line into the drain. Grab the end of the snake and pull out about a foot, inserting the head into the pipe. Then continue to push the snake into the drain until you feel resistance.

Stop
When you feel a slight resistance, don't assume it is the clog. Pipes bend and turn, which means you might need to apply extra pressure on your journey to the clogged portion of the pipe. To get through some bends, rotate the handle. If the auger has stopped and won't move easily, then stop pushing.

Rotate and Push
Once at the clog, you will need to turn the handle to rotate the auger head. Gently push as you turn the handle. The spiral head should break through the clog.

Run Water
Lastly, once the auger is moving freely through the line, go ahead and retract the snake back into the housing and run the water for several minutes. If the water runs freely, congratulations. However, if the problem persists, then you might want to contact a plumbing specialist in Swannanoa,NC, to assess and resolve any underlying issues.
A clogged is a nuisance. However, a snake can save the day. Just remember to push, stop, rotate and run water.

3 Tips for Restoring Fire Damaged Electronics

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

It´s important to remember that in cases of severe damage it may be better to replace your device instead of repair it.

If your Asheville, NC, home has suffered a fire then you may be wondering if it’s possible to restore your damaged electronic devices. Fortunately, many fire cleanup professions do have the tools and knowledge to complete this task. Here are three things you can do if your electronics have been damaged by a fire.

1. Sort By Damage Type

Believe it or not a fire can lead to several different types of damage. Heat, soot and smoke damage are the most common, but in some cases you may even experience water damage from fire suppression efforts. The methods used for repairing electronics may vary by damage type, so if you can, you may want to sort any damaged items by type ahead of time to make it easier for your restoration professional to make an assessment.

2. Determine the Damage Severity

Another step for a fire cleanup is to determine the damage severity. Items located at the fire’s point of origin may be damaged beyond repair, while those further away may experience only light damage. The amount of damage a device has sustained will determine what type of repairs it requires.

3. Contact a Professional

When it comes to damaged electronics it’s always best to contact a fire restoration professional to make any repairs. Especially for more complex devices such as computers or cell phones. It’s also important to remember that in cases of severe damage it may be better to replace your device instead of repair it. However, many professionals may still be able to salvage any data you may have had stored, and transfer it to your new model.

If you know how, taking the time to sort your electronics by damage type and severity may help your local fire cleanup professional assess the repair needs. They can then begin the process of cleaning or replacing parts as necessary to get your devices back into working order. Remember, sometimes it may be better to replace the item altogether, and your professional will let you know if this is the case.

What To Know About Mold Containment During Remediation

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

If your home in Weaverville, NC, has experienced mold contamination, then your local mold remediation professionals may first set up containment around the affected area before beginning the remediation process. There are a few things you may wish to know about mold containment and what to expect.

1. Containing Mold Prevents Spreading

One of the main reasons for placing and mold contaminated areas under containment is to help prevent the spreading of spores throughout the rest of the home. Spores can be airborne meaning that they can land on clothing and be carried across to another room, or even be blown through the air with the use of a fan or exhaust system. Fortunately, mold remediation professionals have a number of ways to seal off the affected area until it can be thoroughly cleaned.

2. Wear Removable Protective Gear

When dealing with mold contamination, you will often see your restoration professionals wearing a number of safety items designed to help them prevent possible contamination of other areas of your home. These may consist of coveralls and shoe covers which can be removed and placed in a bag for washing when they are done for the day.

3. Wash Everything Thoroughly

Another important step to helping to prevent the spread of mold spore in the home is to wash everything thoroughly. This means removing and washing any safety gear at the end of the day, as well as any fabric items, such as pillows or rugs, that may have been in the contaminated space. You will also want to keep any cloth items the have been washed at a separate location until your local remediation professional has cleared the area of mold.

When dealing with mold contamination and the home, it's important to contain the area before remediation begins. This will help prevent spores from spreading further in the home. It's also important to wear the proper safety gear when in the area. Also, wash everything thoroughly when you're done. If you have any questions your restoration professional may be able to help.

Handling Crawlspace Cleanup After a Flood

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

If your crawlspace has suffered home flood damage, contact a water restoration company

You made it through a home flood and are now facing the very real storm damage aftermath. It’s critical that you don’t overlook any areas as you handle cleanup, especially the often-neglected crawlspaces. If not cleaned properly they can become major breeding grounds for mold that will quickly affect your entire home. Follow these steps after a flood in your Biltmore,NC, home to ensure your crawlspaces don’t become a casualty.

How Crawlspace Floods Happen

Your home can take on water from a hard driving rain, rapidly melting snow or even poor drainage. Flooding happens from the ground up, so the lower crawlspaces are often the first casualties of ground flooding. Flooding in these areas can lead to mold growth that rots the wood framing of your home and causes major damage.

Remove the Water

Once flood waters have receded, it’s time to get to action removing water. Old fashioned buckets may be enough to get out initial water. A shop vacuum is another good tool to have on hand to remove remaining water, so long as it’s not contaminated with human waste. That type of water is best removed by professionals.

Dry It Out

The most critical step in any crawlspace cleanup after a home flood is drying the entire area. Ventilating the crawlspace is the best and fastest way to ensure that it dries out before mold has a chance to take hold and cause major damage. Use fans facing outward to draw air out of the space rather than blow moisture in.
Your crawlspaces are out of sight and often out of mind. But they can be the ideal place for mold to take hold and cause major expense and headaches. If your crawlspace has suffered home flood damage, use the above tips. Or better yet, contact a water restoration company to evaluate the damage and help you take the steps you need.

5 Steps for Replacing a Leaking Toilet

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

It's important to use the appropriate wrench to disconnect a supply line

5 Steps for Replacing a Leaking Toilet

When your home has a leaking toilet in Weaverville,NC, your first reaction may be to check that the water supply line is leaking. If this is not the problem it may be time to replace the gasket. Here are five steps to follow.

1. Turn Off the Water

One of the first steps to replace an old toilet gasket, is to turn off the water before beginning. In many cases the water supply line will be attached to an off valve which is located in the bathroom.

2. Disconnect Supply Line

Once the water is turned off you can drain the toilet by holding the leaver down, and then began to disconnect the water supply line. It's important to use the appropriate wrench for the job in order to prevent any damage to the fittings.

3. Move Toilet Aside

After the water is drained and the supply line disconnected you can begin to move your leaking toilet away from the base. At this point you may wish to check for any water damage as result of the leaking, and contact a local water damage restoration service to conduct any necessary repairs.

4. Replace the Gasket

Once any water damage to the floor has been repaired, you can continue with the toilet repair. At this time remove the old gasket, scraping away any remaining residue, and replace it with a brand new one. Ensure the new gasket is properly set, and then return the toilet to its original position. If you have any questions about this process a professional may be able to help.

5. Reconnect the Water

After the gasket has been replaced, and a toilet reinstalled you can begin to reconnect the water line. Ensure that all the fittings are correctly tightened, and remember to contact a professional if you have any questions.
Following these five steps may allow you to replace the gasket and stop a leaking toilet. Turn the water off before beginning the replacement process, and ensure all the fittings are correctly tightened when you are done. Remember, if you find water damage during this process it's best to contact a local professional for help.

What to Expect During Water Damage Remediation

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage to retail store in Swannanoa, NC

What to Expect During Water Damage Remediation

If your Swannanoa,NC, building has been damaged by water during a storm, then you will likely need some repairs to return it to its previous condition. If this is your first time having this kind of work done, you may not know quite what to expect from the flood cleanup company. The following are three important stages that will happen during this process.

1. Inspection

The first thing that the flood cleanup company will need to do is perform a thorough inspection of the building. During this step, they will look at each area of the building as well as its contents. This will allow them to locate all damage and determine its extent. They can then decide the best way to move forward and begin working toward making repairs.

2. Mitigation

Once the inspection has been completed, mitigation will need to be done. During this stage, steps will be taken to minimize damage and prevent it from worsening. This can include blocking off areas with tarps or boards to keep water from spreading, covering holes or broken windows, and moving items to a dry location. Water will also be removed from the building during this stage.

3. Restoration

The final step that will be performed by the flood cleanup company is restoration. While inspection and mitigation are done more quickly, restoration can be time-consuming. This is because this stage involves making all repairs on the building as well as replacing any materials that cannot be salvaged. It also includes minor repairs like repainting.
While returning your building to its pre-flood condition can take a while, you can rest assured that the cleanup and restoration company will complete the job as quickly as possible. Once it is finished, it will likely be difficult to tell that any damage has occurred. They can also help to salvage any furniture or other belongings that have been affected.

Replacing a Leaky Toilet

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Determine whether toilet repair or replacement is the appropriate response to leakage.

The prospect of replacing a leaking toilet need not strike fear into the heart of a homeowner nor necessarily require calling in a specialist in or near Asheville, NC to get the job done right. With a toilet tutorial, a few simple tools and a confident mindset, you can set things right.

Confirming the Need for Replacement

Determine whether toilet repair or replacement is the appropriate response to leakage. If damage to the bowl or tank is not the issue, check the shutoff valve and supply tube. A sweaty bowl can also give the appearance of a leaking toilet. Gently tighten the closet bolts that join the toilet to the floor and recheck for seepage. Rule out the relatively simple fixes.

Mastering the Steps of Installation

A methodical approach makes swapping out an old toilet for a new model a manageable task. Preview these steps and gather the necessary tools.

1. Completely close the shutoff valve.
2. Take the lid off the tank and flush the toilet, holding it down to empty the tank. Soak up any remaining water.
3. Disconnect the water supply tube.
4. Remove the caps from the closet bolts and remove the nuts.
5. Grip the bowl and move it from side to side to break the wax seal. Remove the toilet. Scrape the closet flange in the floor to remove any residue. Inspect the flange and repair or replace it if there is damage.
6. Replace the wax seal and ensure that it is perfectly centered.
7. Install a flexible supply tube in the appropriate length.
8. Apply pipe-joint compound to both ends of the supply tube fittings and tighten one end to the fill-valve shank.
9. Firmly push the toilet into place, compressing the wax seal.
10. Check placement, and then gradually tighten the closet bolts gently to avoid cracks.
11. Attach the water supply tube to the shutoff valve and then open it.

Monitor the fit not only after a few test flushes, but also for a few days afterward, tightening the nuts as needed. Successful completion of these steps will put to rest the inconvenience of a leaking toilet. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on water damage.

Avoid Kitchen Fires With Safe Cooking

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Cooking on a Royal Pines, NC kitchen

Your kitchen is one of the most eventful rooms in your house. Some memorable meals have been cooked there, as well as some great conversation and announcements. Your kitchen is also a potential area of danger, with a hot stove, open flames, splattering grease and steamy foods. A few safety tips for the kitchen are always in order. They can help you avoid a devastating fire in Royal Pines,NC. Fire damage is a serious matter and requires the help of fire remediation experts to be called in quickly.

Hot Advice To Avoid Fires

You probably learned fire safety from your parents or from a cooking class in school. These practices are just as relevant now as they were then. In fact, most kitchen fires are caused by inattention to small details. Keep in mind the following safe cooking tips:

• Position the pot handle where it won't be accidentally bumped
  
• Pick up hot pots and pans with an oven mitt
  
• Don't use excessive grease or cook grease at too high a temperature
  
• Remove all clutter from the counter tops
  
• Allow one cook in the kitchen (or two at most)
  
• Watch for burners that have been left on
  
  

A grease fire can be particularly dangerous. It is best handled by turning off the heat source and covering the flames with a metal lid. Water should never be sprayed on the fire, but in the case of a small fire baking soda can be used to smother the flames.

Good Ideas for Cleanup

If you experience a kitchen fire in Royal Pines,NC, be prepared to call in help for professional cleanup and restoration. A cleanup company will have the proper tools to rid your home of smoke and soot damage. Moreover, a professional company will know how to clean damaged electronics and how to get clothing and upholstery back in good condition again. Best of all, fire safety tips may prevent a kitchen fire in the first place.

Removing Art From a Crawlspace Is an Art

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

The attic, crawlspace, and basement of your home are the most prone to water damage

Mold spores are everywhere. When flooding occurs, they flow through a home looking for places to settle down and establish a colony. If they settle in an out-of-the-way location like a crawlspace, mold becomes a serious problem. From that hiding place, it can send massive quantities of mold spores throughout the home. By the time the infestation is visible, there may already be serious mold damage.

Soda Blasting Is the Preferred Technique

The techniques used to remove mold vary depending upon the circumstances. Removing mold from crawlspaces frequently involves soda blasting. Think of it as sandblasting with baking soda instead of sand. There are three reasons why this technique works in crawlspaces:

• They are places that are out of sight and where blasting scars aren’t a problem.
• They are small areas that are too tight for someone to work effectively.
• They are mostly unfinished wood and do not lend themselves to the usual cleaning methods.

The technician performing the soda blasting does so with full protective gear. It is a three-step process

1. Soda-blast the mold.Blasting does not kill or damage the mold. It merely separates it from the surface.
2. Collect the dislodged mold with a vacuum device.
   Removal is perhaps the most critical step. The mold dislodged by the soda blasting cannot leave the crawlspace. Otherwise, blasting made the problem worse.
3. Collect the remaining mold by wiping down all the surfaces.
   Vacuuming picked up most of the mold, but the area must be as mold-free as possible. Wiping down the surfaces completes the cleanup.

It Is Always a Good Idea To Follow-Up

On some later date, someone should check to make sure that the mold hasn’t returned. If it has, it can be dealt with before it gets out of control.
It’s easy to see how removing mold from a crawlspace requires technicians with specialized equipment and training. If you find yourself in a situation that requires a mold-cleanup, there are specially trained mold remediation experts in the Montreat, NC, area. They are close by and ready to solve your mold problem.

3 Common Causes of Water Loss in Commercial Buildings

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial water loss in Royal Pines, NC

Ways to Prevent Water Losses

Every month, you probably get a utility bill for your commercial property. If you notice the water bill take a big leap upward one month, you may have a leak somewhere in your building. A water loss can result from damaged pipes, toilet issues or even a leaky faucet. There are several causes of such losses and ways to prevent each one in your building.

1. Toilet Overflow

If you notice a water spot on your ceiling, it may be due to leaking pipes. However, if there is a restroom above the area, it may be an overflowing toilet. A toilet overflow on an upper floor can cause extensive water damage on multiple floors as the water or sewage seeps into the floor and the ceiling below it. While you cannot control everything that happens in the restroom, you can take some measures to avoid a major problem. Have the custodial staff check the restrooms frequently, and call water restoration professionals as soon as they find an issue.

2. Pipe Break

Damaged pipes can cause a lot of problems before they're discovered because most of them are hidden from view. In fact, the higher utility bill may be your first indication that there's a problem. Make sure your pipes are insulated in the winter. Have your plumbing inspected frequently by a plumber in Royal Pines,NC, so that hopefully you can stop potential issues before they get worse.

3. Faucet Leak

A leaky faucet may not lead to a flooding disaster, but it can definitely waste a lot of water. A routine check of every faucet can help you find small leaks so you can fix them in a timely manner. You can save a lot on your utility bill by doing so.
A water bill that is higher than usual may be a sign of a problem such as damaged pipes. Take measures to prevent water loss to keep your costs down.

What Is a Flood Cut and Why Is It Important?

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Flood cut in a Black Mountain, NC home

If your home has experienced some flooding, it has probably sustained damage that has the potential for further harm if the moisture is not cleaned up thoroughly within the first 48 hours. If the water damage makes it through your walls and drywall, you may want to utilize the expertise of a flood remediation company to do a flood cut so you don’t have bigger mold problems in the future.

Flood Cut or Not?

A flood cut is a cut in the drywall 12 to 18 inches above where the water damage stops. This is not always necessary, and the professionals do try to save your wall and do as little structural work as possible while still keeping your home and its occupants safe. The main factors that make a flood cut necessary include:

• The walls are filled with insulation
  
• The flooding was caused by a sewage backup
  
• The floodwaters contain bacteria or harmful pathogens
  
• Clean floodwaters were left too long and became contaminated
  
  

As a general rule, when a wall is insulated, it will likely require a tear out because the insulation is like a sponge. Any sort of in-wall drying strategies will not work sufficiently or quickly enough. For walls that are not insulated, such as basement walls that are known to have the most flooding issues, a flood remediation company can use equipment to fully dry the walls and studs from the inside.
As a side note, if your home does need a flood cut, this is a good time to add additional electrical outlets. You may also want to install other types of cables in the wall at the same time.

Maintain Your Home

Consult with a professional in Black Mountain,NC, to know for sure whether your home needs a flood cut to maintain structural integrity and keep the house and contents safe from contamination. Give yourself peace of mind with a timely, thorough cleaning and avoid mold growth altogether.

Making a Water Damage Claim? Read This First.

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Bursting pipes can easily result in expensive damage.

Tips on Making A Water Damage Claim

There’s never a good time for water damage to strike in Fairview,NC. You must deal with a wide range of problems: bursting pipes, discolored walls, ruined furniture and more. It’s the second most frequent type of home insurance claim, but there are often complex details impacting whether or not a claim is paid. Before you contact your insurer with a claim, you should review some helpful tips.

1. Understand Your Homeowner’s Policy

Claims for damage resulting from water can be tricky. Whether they’re paid or denied often depends on the nature of the incident and the policy’s provisions. For instance, a policy may not cover the cost to fix a broken pipe but could reimburse you for resulting damage from bursting pipes. Also, your coverage may not include reimbursing you for gradual damage that happens due to problems that have slowly developed over time. Read through your policy carefully and make sure you understand its coverages and exclusions.

2. Keep Up With Regular Maintenance

Seasonal maintenance is one important key to catching and fixing problems before they get worse. Perform a thorough check each fall and spring, focusing on critical areas. Pay attention to areas through which water can leak: window panes, thresholds, door seals, exterior walls, insulation, gutters, drains and even your roof. Your plumbing is especially important since bursting pipes can easily result in expensive damage.

3. Keep Complete Records

Comprehensive documentation is your friend when it comes to home insurance claims. Your files should include records of repairs and maintenance services you’ve paid for over the years. Detailed invoices from the contractors you’ve hired are especially beneficial. If you have records from prior insurance claims, hold onto those as well.

When making a claim, both knowing your coverage and doing your due diligence are critical. Working with a water damage restoration company is also vital to getting your home and life back on track. For best results, choose a responsive and trustworthy professional that’s Faster to any size disaster.

The Process or Fixing a Leaky Roof

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

Leaking roof in Biltmore, NC

A roof leak in Biltmore, NC, might at first blush seem like a catastrophe. After all, having water coming into your place of business puts a sickening feeling into your stomach. A number of questions arise. Who do I call? How much disruption will this cause? How much will this cost? The first thing is to connect with the water damage professionals in your area. Look for a company that has an attitude of we are Here to Help. Once you have connected with a company you like, it's easy to learn more about its services. By having a trusted company for remediation services, you can rest a little easier when a challenging situation occurs.

The Steps To Fix a Damaged Roof

With a roof leak, it's crucial to stop the water from entering the building. A roofing professional can inspect the roof to look for missing shingles, cracks in the roof surface and worn out flashing systems. The following steps will then need to be taken:

• The damaged areas of the roof will need to be removed
  
• The affected areas will need to be dried out
  
• The roof will need to be restored
  
  

Any collateral storm damage to the building will have to be addressed once the roof is fixed. In most cases, the interior ceilings will have water damage. If the damage is severe, the ceilings may have to be restored. Another important issue is the presence of high levels of humidity in the building. If this excess moisture remains then other problems such as abnormal wear and tear and black mold can develop. Therefore, the moisture should be removed professionally thorough fans, ventilation systems and other methods.
The problem of a roof leak is not completely fixed until the leak is stopped and any damage to the interior of the building is addressed. Then your company can go back to what it does best in a safe and clean environment.

Why You Should Not Clean Mold With Bleach

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Do not clean mold with bleach

Why You Should Not Clean Mold With Bleach

Mold can grow in a commercial building when there is a leak in the plumbing system. Air ducts and other parts of the HVAC system can also be breeding grounds for mold. Without proper cleanup mold can spread quickly, especially in damp environments.
Fungus cleanup is a complex process that typically requires the help of mold remediation specialists. This is especially true if the mold covers an area larger than 10 square feet. However, there are some steps you can take to mitigate the damage before the experts arrive:

• Dry wet items
• Fix any leaks
• Turn off the HVAC unit if you suspect it has been contaminated
• Clean moldy surfaces

You can use a variety of materials to clean mold, such as detergent, ammonia or vinegar. One liquid that you shouldn't use, however, is bleach.

Making the Problem Worse

You should avoid use bleach during fungus cleanup because bleaching mold does not actually destroy mold. This liquid cleaner is actually only designed for non-porous surfaces. It does not go deep into drywall or wood to kill the source of the issue. Mold, in particular, can grow roots deep within porous materials. Bleaching mold does not eliminate these roots, so the mold will continue to grow back.

Less Effective

Another reason to avoid bleaching mold is that the chlorine in the cleaner evaporates over time, making the product less effective. Even if your bottle has just been sitting in your cabinet for months, it may not work as well. You thus may not even be able to clean all of the surface mold.
Fungus cleanup should help limit the spread of the mold spores and reduce the odor. However, you need to make sure the infestation is completely contained before you allow employees or customers to return to your Weaverville, NC, property. Mold remediation professionals can quickly fix the problem and get your business back up and running.

How To Clean Your Grill in 6 Easy Steps

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Grill cleaning in Asheville, NC.

You are the grill master of your neighborhood in Asheville, NC. You make the best hamburgers, hot dogs and veggie burgers on the block. But, are you the best at grill cleaning? Many people do not consider the aftermath left on the grill after the barbeque ends.

6 Steps to Clean Your Grill.

Follow the six steps below to keep your grill at peak performance all season long:

1. Turn the grill off. For a gas grill, ensure that all knobs are turned off and the propane tank is disconnected. 

2. Disassemble the parts. Take the plates and grates off of the grill. Wear gloves to keep your hands clean and protect yourself from any remaining heat. 

3. Soak and scrub. Soak the parts from the previous step in a mixture of dish soap and hot water. Scrub the inside walls and the underside of the grill hood. After scrubbing, use a wet paper towel to wipe the areas down. Scrub the grates and rinse with clean water. 

4. Take care of the drip pan. Empty, soak and scrub the drip pan. Rinse with fresh water when clean. 

5. Reassemble the grill. After the grill cleaning, return the removed parts back to the grill. This includes the drip pan, plates and grates. Reattach the propane tank on a gas grill. 

6. Clean the outside. Use soapy water or stainless-steel cleaning wipes to quickly wipe down the exterior of the grill. For grills with a cabinet, wipe down the inside of that as well. 

When you master the art of grill cleaning in Asheville, NC your food tastes better and your home is safer. With consistent grill maintenance, the risk of a grease fire is significantly reduced. If a fire spreads from the grill and threatens the safety of your home immediately vacate the area and call 911. If the unthinkable happens and the blaze damages your house, contact a fire restoration specialist and your homeowner’s insurance agent as soon as possible.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Asheville East?

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Choose SERVPRO of Asheville East for Storm Damage Restoration.

3 Reasons Why You Choose SERVPRO.

1. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

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

Learn More

2. 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

3. 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 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

Content Cleaning for Smoke-Damaged Items

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

Residential fire in Royal Pines, NC

Content Cleaning for Smoke-Damaged Items

If your family has experienced a house fire in Royal Pines,NC, the cleanup phase is another important aspect in the recovery phase. “Content cleaning” is the name of the process you or a professional restoration company goes through to salvage your belongings and restore them back to what they were before the fire damage occurred.
If you do choose to use the services of a professional restoration company, they will:

• Come into your home and determine which of your items can be saved.
  
• Document both salvageable and non-salvageable belongings.
  
• Box items up.
  
• Determine which cleaning method is the safest for each item.
  
  

After the cleaning process, they will provide climate-controlled content storage until you’re ready to move everything back into your home.

Clean Smoke-Damaged Clothes

When smoke has penetrated your clothing, a simple wash and dry in your home machines will often not take away the smoke smell. First, you will want to shake off any visible debris or vacuum each item, and then use dry-cleaning as your main method for clothes that have not suffered any fire damage. Make sure to choose a dry-cleaning company that has experience dealing with fires and smoke to ensure your clothing will be cleaned in the best way possible.

Clean Other Household Items

For items that cannot use the dry-cleaning method, such as the hard, non-porous items in your home, these can be cleaned using ultrasonic equipment. Generally, non-porous items are easier to clean, and the ultrasonic method is the best way to remove soot and smoke odors from belongings such as jewelry and valuable antiques or important family heirlooms.

Your Home Restored

Experiencing a residential fire can be incredibly devastating. But with the restoration options available today, many of your household items and clothing can be recovered nearly to their original state. From dry-cleaning, ultrasonic, deodorization, sanitation, refinishing, and more, as long as you do your research regarding the companies that will be helping you, your life will be put back together as smoothly as possible.

What To Do and Not Do During Flooding

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded home in Montreat, NC

What To Do and Not Do During Flooding

During major flooding, the wrong steps can lead to serious consequences. Sometimes homeowners opt to stay in their homes while storms such as Hurricane Harvey rage, but the rising flood water, powerful winds, and electrical damages all pose significant dangers. There are some things you can and should do, including

Contacting your insurance agent

Working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to get loans
Securing the services of a flood remediation and repair company

Until you've received an okay from the proper authorities, it's best to wait out the storm in a hotel, with family, or in another approved shelter.

Stay Out of the Water

There are several things you should not do in the meantime, for the protection of your family and your flooded home. One of the most important things you should not do is enter the water. Standing water could be electrically charged by underground power lines or downed lines. In addition to electrocution, contamination is a very real risk. The flood water could carry feces, harmful chemicals, and organic toxins.

Wait for a Safe Return to Your Home

Don't head into your home too early. It's understandable that you're anxious to return home, get repairs underway, and start buying new furnishings. However, water damage remediation professionals must have time to completely repair the home and address the possibility of mold growth before you move back in. These efforts may take weeks to ensure your family's safety.

Focus on Basic Care and Communication

Don't neglect the basics. Clean water may be in short supply. Gasoline prices are sure to rise. Phone lines are tied up. Instead of wading into your flooded home for DIY repairs, turn your focus to keeping your family safe and healthy. This means staying where clean water is abundant and conserve your gasoline. Find a place to keep your cellphone charged, so you can remain in communication with your family.
When torrential rain and winds fill your Montreat,NC, home with flood water, make sure you know how to keep your family safe. Recognize the appropriate steps to take and avoid unnecessary risks.

What Should You Do at Work When the Power Goes Out?

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

Have your business ready if power goes out.

Skilled, experienced business leaders are prepared for just about anything that could occur in their company. If you run an organization, you have a lot to worry about, but do you have a plan in place if there’s a power outage at your Asheville, NC office? If you don’t, it’s time to get organized. If you know how you’ll react to this situation, it will help avoid confusion and possible interruptions to your business operations. 

3 Steps to follow when power goes out.

1. Protect Your Computers

Like most businesses, you probably rely heavily on computers to store massive amounts of data and to communicate critical information to colleagues and customers. If you’re not careful, a power outage could spell disaster for these devices if you haven’t saved your work. However, if you have an uninterrupted power supply (UPS), you won’t have to panic. Here’s how it works:

• A UPS allows the computer to run on its own battery.
• A UPS kicks on as soon as the power goes out and gives you ample time to save work and close out of programs.
• A UPS ensures that you can recover any items after the power goes out

2. Use a Hotspot

Electronic communication dominates personal and professional life. You likely depend on an internet connection to conduct your work. When the power goes out, you can still stay online by using your electronic device and a hotspot. You could even head to a nearby café or store and see if you can pick up Wi-Fi there. 

3. Generate Some Peace of Mind

A great way to invest in backup power is to purchase a portable generator for your company. With this device, you can continue to power all of your equipment and devices, even during an outage. Make sure you consult a specialist about the size of generator you would need for your specific operations. 

Even if a storm or other issue has caused a power outage at your office, you can keep your business running. Consider implementing these solutions at work.

Call SERVPRO of Asheville East for more information on storm damage.

What to Do After Water Damage to the Kitchen

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded kitchen in Biltmore, NC

Four Steps to Take To Repair Flood in a Kitchen

Dealing with flooding at a residence can be very stressful and may create extraordinary damage. If a flood occurs in the kitchen, water in and around kitchen appliances may create a costly and difficult cleanup. If water damage has occurred at a residence in Biltmore,NC, here are four steps to take to repair the problem quickly.

1. Turn the Water Off to the Residence

If water damage has occurred, shutting the water off to the home may be a great first step to take to fix the issue. Turning the water off may help to prevent further damage from a broken pipe, for example. This may also be advantageous if the source of the flooding is not immediately clear.

2. Shut Off the Electricity

Water and electricity do not mix well! Therefore, it may be a great idea to turn off the electricity to the residence after a flood. If damage has occurred to appliances in the kitchen, for example, consider unplugging them after the electricity has been turned off before attempting any sort of kitchen repair. Professionals who provide repair services for water damage are experienced and qualified to safely handle this sort of situation. (Always use extreme caution if there is water in home appliances or kitchen appliances to avoid being electrocuted.)

3. Retrieve Important Documents

Only if it is safe to do so, retrieving any important documents and paperwork from a home that has been flooded may be a good idea in case further damage occurs. Additionally, photographs and other sentimental items can be heavily damaged by water. Safely retrieving these items may provide great comfort for some individuals.

4. Request Help From Experts

Experts who handle water damage may be lifesavers for an individual who has experienced flooding in a residence. Therefore, it can be wise to call for assistance. Additionally, it may be a good idea to take photographs if a homeowner files a claim with an insurance company.
Safety for homeowners and residents after flooding in a home is crucial. Following these suggestions may help to keep individuals safe and have things repaired as soon as possible - “Like it never even happened.”

Are Flood Policies Necessary in Low-Risk Zones?

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage threatened the books at this Asheville School Library

Flooding in Asheville, NC isn’t isolated to areas within flood zones. For instance, flooding may happen because of heavy spring thaws, uncommon accumulations of rain, and the rapid approach of extra storms after wildfires. It doesn’t take much water to do serious damage. Further complicating the issue of whether to own commercial insurance for flooding are common misconceptions about flood insurance.

Flood Policies

• A flood policy isn’t necessary if the business isn’t established in a flood plain.
• Floods and any type of flooding are covered by existing insurance policies.
• Flood policies are all the same and all-inclusive.
• Natural disasters are the only cause of flooding.

Misconceptions To Clear Up

Another serious misconception in Asheville, NC is that low-risk flood zones are essentially no-risk zones. Unfortunately, flood maps change as environmental factors change. A commercial property may be outside of a flood zone one year and within a high-risk flood zone within a year. This means that even businesses built on properties outside of flood plains should have a commercial insurance policy for flooding as recommended by FEMA. That policy should be suited to the specific needs of the business and its environment. The policy should also be written to include flooding that takes place due to burst pipes, sprinklers triggered by fire alarms, fast-melting snow, and other emergencies not triggered by a natural disaster.

The Truth About Flooding and Insurance

The truth is that there are different types of policies to cover commercial properties, homes, repair costs, business inventory, and relocation costs. If a business’ insurance company doesn’t require flood insurance, business owners may still want to consider the value of an insurance policy specifically for flooding and water damage. According to FEMA, one inch of water can cost a business tens of thousands of dollars beyond the cost of clean-up services. The annual cost for adequate flood insurance is much, much less than that. When considering whether to purchase a flood policy, business owners should carefully weigh their potential losses against the investment in commercial insurance.

3 Things You Should Know About Mold Damaged Paintings

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can grow on paintings

Mold Cleaning Is an Option When Mold Growths Affects Paintings

Mold can grow on a multitude of surfaces and can damage various items in homes in Swannanoa,NC. When paintings have been affected by mold growth, however, you may be unsure whether or not mold cleaning is an option.

1. Why Does Mold Grow on Paintings?

Many people often don’t think works of art would be affected by mold, though it is a common occurrence. Mold growth is likely to affect a painting in a variety of circumstances, including:

• If a painting sustains water damage and the piece is not quickly dried and treated
• When mold growth starts on a wooden frame and spreads to the remainder of the painting
• If pieces are stored in attics, basements or other humid environments
  
  

2. Should You Attempt To Remove Mold Yourself?

Although you may be tempted to remove mold from a painting on your own, specialized mold cleaning methods are often necessary. Removing mold from a painting by yourself could result in the painting becoming further damaged. Warping, discoloration and disintegration may occur if the piece isn’t treated properly. Additionally, attempting to treat a painting in an environment where high levels of mold spores are present may cause the mold to reappear a short time later.

3. How Are Works of Art Restored?

The extent of the mold damage often determines whether or not any item, including a painting, can be restored. Mold remediation specialists will remove the piece from its original environment to ensure mold does not continue to grow. Then, professionals examine the painting before using specialized methods and treatments to remove mold. In some instances, conservationists may need to repaint areas of a painting that have flaked away.

When your home has been damaged, you can feel overwhelmed by uncertainty. However, knowing that mold cleaning can improve the state of damaged paintings can help to bring you peace of mind.

Beyond Salvaging: Items That Should Be Discarded After a House Fire

5/20/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a Weaverville, NC home

Items That Should Be Discarded After a House Fire

Not every fire will require a significant clean-out. For instance, a small stovetop grease fire may do minimal damage to a kitchen and only require throwing away the pan. However, for more extensive fires that eviscerate whole rooms, you may want to throw away several items due to spoilage and contamination. Thankfully, the list is potentially small for things that may be beyond salvaging.

1. Nonperishables and Perishables

The high heat of a fire, especially one that engulfs entire rooms or levels, will likely result in the spoilage of several perishable and nonperishable items. For instance, canned goods will probably boil during a fire, making any warranty or expiration invalid. Also, if your fridge was damaged during the blaze, the temperature inside likely rose, causing most, if not all, of the food to go bad.

2. Medications

Medications are another item that you should throw away. While they may appear fine, fires produce toxic chemicals that can cling to medications. Therefore, discard any pills and medicines safely. You can contact your physician and alert him or her to your need for refills.

3. Cosmetics

As with medications, fire damage can leave toxic residues on various items, including cosmetics. There is no feasible way to clean cosmetics, and therefore, they should be discarded for your safety.

4. Porous Items

While the general rule is to discard any porous items, it is understandable that some materials may be more sentimental than others. If you would like to hold on to some of these items, then you can contact a restoration specialist in the Weaverville,NC, area. These professionals may be able to help you find a local specialty cleaner who can salvage certain porous items.

While there are many things that you should throw away after a fire, there are pieces of your home that you will likely be able to take with you. Also, if you can find a certified restoration company, you should be able to salvage even some things that seem beyond salvation.

3 Types of Damage Caused by Hail

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Cracks in asphalt stringle roof

Three Types of Hail Damage

If or when a hailstorm hits your business in Asheville, NC, you may suddenly find yourself with issues such as water leaks, roof damage and more. While cosmetic damage may only impact your building’s appearance, functional damage may lead to issues with water leaks and rot. Without a trained eye, it can often be difficult to tell which kind of damage occurred.

In this situation, the best solution may be to obtain commercial storm damage restoration from a company that can inspect your building, provides 24-hour emergency services and is faster to respond to any size disaster. Here are three types of hail damage a restoration company can help you find and repair.

1. Cracked Shingles

Depending on the size of hail and type of shingles on your commercial roof, cracked shingles may occur and be extremely difficult to spot. Hail only one inch in diameter may be large enough to damage 3-tab asphalt shingles.

2. Missing Shingles

Hail and wind often go together, and the combination of both may lead to missing shingles. Even one missing shingle can cause a gap that exposes the seam between one row of shingles and the row beneath. This gap may allow water to slip through beneath the shingles and eventually lead to further roof damage and a roof leak.

3. Wet Insulation

For those with fiberglass insulation, hail damage may cause water leaks that eventually reach the dry spaces between attic joists or walls. These areas often hold insulation, and water can decrease its effectiveness. Clumps in the fibers may form due to an inflow of dirty storm water and also increase your risk of mold growth.

These three types of damage can lead to ongoing problems if not addressed quickly. A commercial storm damage restoration company can help you inspect and repair your structure and any roof damage before further issues occur.

3 Ways to Prevent Mold Growth After a Flood

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Mold growth can still cause many problems. If it's not addressed.

Preventing Mold Growth

After a severe storm, you might sometimes experience flooding in your Royal Pines, NC home. This can cause quite a bit of damage to your property. In some cases, this can continue long after the flood has passed. Water damage can contribute to mold growth in your home, so be sure to take the necessary steps to prevent it.

1. Remove Water From Your Home

Because mold growth can happen quickly in a moist environment, it is important to remove any remaining water in your home as soon as possible. Make sure that all walls, floors, and belongings are completely dry as even small amounts of moisture might contribute to fungal growth.

2. Wash Any Soft Items

While it is important to dry everything, that won’t be enough for some items. Soft and porous belongings such as clothing, curtains, bedding and stuffed animals should be thoroughly cleaned if they were affected by the flooding. Flood water can carry contaminants, and if there are mold spores in these items, then it is only a matter of time before a growth occurs.

3. Hire a Professional Service

Perhaps one of the best ways to prevent mold from spreading in your home is to hire a water damage remediation company. These specialists can help with cleaning and repairing your home which will reduce the likelihood of developing a mold problem. They can also locate signs that mold has already started spreading and perform mold removal if necessary.

While mold may not pose much of a threat to the structure of your home, mold growth can still cause many problems. If it is not addressed, it can continue to spread throughout your house, creating unsightly discoloration on your walls and other items. It can also fill your home with an unpleasant, musty odor. To avoid this, be sure to remove excess water and clean up damage quickly.

Helpful Tips to Avoid Water Damage During Building Construction

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

There was a pipe burst in this facility causing flooding

If you’re building a new work facility, or if you’ve hired crews for a major remodeling project, it’s an exciting yet stressful time for you and your organization. There are a lot of moving pieces in this endeavor, and you want to make sure everything comes together smoothly. It’s not unheard of for flooding to occur during construction projects. To help avoid the need for water pipe repair and other major issues, it’s critical to understand some simple flood prevention guidelines.

Most Common Issues

You may hear about Montreat, NC, companies that experience water damage during rebuilding or construction efforts. Thee problems often occur due to some of the following:

• A broken pipe or series of pipes
  
• Main supply line defects, leaks or brakes
  
• Sewer backups

Sometimes, you can chalk up these incidents to lack of awareness on the part of the construction crews. However, other times, it’s difficult to identify the causes.

Work Closely With the Construction Company

You trust the construction team to do its job well and complete your building according to the specs and time frame you agreed on. Still, you should be in frequent contact with the contractors and crew leaders to ensure they’re following best practices and safety regulations. This includes making sure everyone is aware of potential issues that would result in water pipe repair and other water damage incidents.

Proper Testing

You can never be too careful on a project of this magnitude. Too many organizations experience flooded offices due to skipping steps or rushing through the project. Make sure the construction crew does water tightness testing and monitors piping closely.

Have Water Cleanup Teams Handy

In the event of flooding or water damage concerns, you’ll want to get a commercial water mitigation company to the construction site in a hurry. These professionals can put a halt to a small problem before it gets too big.

Water pipe repair could save your office from a major flood. Follow these guidelines to ensure your office is sound and sound from water issues during construction.

3 Ways To Detect Mold in a Building

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Mold growing behind the drywall after a pipe break

The first sign of a mold issue in your commercial property is usually the visible evidence. You see patches on the wall or on ceiling tiles. Sometimes, however, there is a mold smell but you don't know where it's coming from. There are various ways to detect mold in your building in Biltmore, NC, even if you can't see it. Here are three potential methods.

1. Canine Detectors

Most dogs have a remarkable sense of smell. Many companies use scent detection canines to find out exactly where the fungus smell originates. These animals can sniff out a more precise location, giving mold remediation specialists a good idea of where to start looking for the problem.

2. Infrared Cameras

Warmth and excess moisture are two factors that can contribute to mold growth. An infrared camera that detects heat and moisture can identify areas that are more susceptible to fungus. You may not be able to see the source of the mold smell with your eyes, but the camera can reveal and document spaces that have water damage due to leaks or condensation. Without proper remediation, mold growth is likely in these areas.

3. Professional Testing

If you notice a mildew smell in your building, it's smart to have a professional mold test. It will help you locate the specific place the mold or mildew is growing. These tests can also reveal the type of mold and the extent of the problem. This information is vital when technicians choose the method they use to mitigate the damage.

When there is a mold smell in your commercial building, don't just ignore it. Even if you don't see mold anywhere, that doesn't mean you don't have a problem that needs professional attention. Using one or all of these three measures to detect its location is essential for helping you find and fix the problem before it gets larger.

Which Certification Should Restoration Experts Have?

3/23/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is certified with the IICRC for water, fire, and mold damage

Certified restoration experts are trained to provide mitigation and restoration services at commercial properties in Biltmore, NC. Most insurance companies prefer to work with vendors that employ technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration. Property owners and insurance representatives should check for current IICRC credentials before selecting a company or franchise to provide damage cleanup or complete a rebuild.

Industry-Leading Certification

The top certification in the restoration field was established by experienced professionals. The standards that this agency develops and maintains are used throughout the industry:

• American National Standards Institute
  
• Board of Standards Review
  
• IICRC

Standards have been established for all of the major types of restoration and common building materials and contents. Certified professionals are trained to use the most effective methods to clean and restore damage.

Areas of Certification

There are many areas in which restoration technicians may pursue specialized training. Fields of specialization may vary, but certified professionals have knowledge and experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Applied Structural Drying
  
• Carpet Cleaning
  
• Fire and Smoke Restoration
  
• Mold Removal
  
• Water Damage Restoration

If an insurer or client is considering working with a certified company or franchise, he or she may want to inquire about the type of restoration in which technicians specialize. A business is considered certified if at least one employee maintains current certification.

Achieving and Maintaining Certification

Technicians receive in-depth training during the certification program. SERVPRO is an approved training school that also offers mitigation certificate, continuing education and e-learning programs. After obtaining certification, technicians must acquire 14 continuing education credit hours over the course of four years to maintain certified status.

A commercial property owner or insurance agent should consider the certification status of a restoration company or franchise in Biltmore, NC. Several types of certificates are available, but the IICRC sets the highest standard for the restoration industry.

Must Water-Damaged Carpet Be Replaced?

3/14/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to water damage, all h20 is not the same

Whether it comes from a flood, a pipe break or some other catastrophe, a major water episode can spell big bills. One of the costliest items to replace can be carpeting. You may even wonder if it needs to be replaced at all. That all depends on the type of water damage. Learn more about what types of water damage to the carpet in your Asheville, NC  home can be safely cleaned, and which types require replacement.

Different Water Types

When it comes to water damage, all h20 is not the same. That’s because water can come into contact with many substances that can make it contaminated and any materials it comes into unsalvageable. The three main types of water causing property damage are:

• Clean water
  
• Gray water
  
• Black water

While clean water from a pipe break may simply cause cosmetic damage, gray and black water can create dangerous environments.

When You Can Keep Water Damaged Carpet

Pretty much the only time you can keep water logged carpet is if it was damaged by clean water. Clean water is water from broken water line, a leaking faucet or some other relatively clean source. Items touched by it can simply be cleaned.

When You Must Replace Carpet

Gray water is what you’d expect from a minor toilet overflow, a dishwasher leak or a washing machine malfunction. Black water, on the other hand, includes things like sewage, which can contain viruses and bacteria. Items contaminated by gray or black water should not be salvaged. If that includes your carpet, plan on getting a replacement.

Water damage cleanup should always be handled with care. Plan on replacing carpet tainted by gray or black water. If clean water from a pipe break has done all the damage, talk to a water damage restoration specialist to see how you can make your carpet like new.

Where Should I Look for Mold?

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

Mold spores are blown through your entire home

Mold. It’s one of the words that no homeowner wants to hear. Yet the ingredients for its growth – warmth, moisture, and darkness – are present in every home. Would you know the places to check for mold damage in your Asheville, NC, home? If the answer is no, read on for some important tips that can help you beat the mold threat.

What Mold Is

In general, mold is a fungus that grows from microscopic spores. These spores are always floating in the air and when a cluster of them finds the right surface, they can start to reproduce. The result is a visible stain that can be:

• Smelly
• Multi-colored
• Hard to get off

Most importantly, mold and mildew growth can be extremely damaging to things like drywall, wood, furniture and even paper. Mold growth can occur just about anywhere under the right circumstances, but there are some places where it is more likely than others.

Bathrooms

Love long showers? So does mold. The warmth and wetness of a bathroom makes it a top place for fungus growth. Showers are the main places to look for mold damage and mildew growth, as well as areas beneath sinks.

Windows and Window Sills

Windows may seem like unlikely mold incubators. But windows often collect condensation due to humidity. Moisture can find its way to the indoor window sill, and before long, dark, fuzzy mold can begin to grow.

Air Conditioning and Heating Vents

While they keep your home comfy, air conditioning and heating units are also comfy for mold. Lightweight mold spores can land in vents, where they thrive on condensation to multiply. Once in your HVAC system, mold spores are blown through your entire home.

Knowing where to look for fungus in homes is an invaluable way to prevent mold damage. Start by checking some of the most common mold hiding places or calling a mold remediation company to arrange an inspection and stop mold in its tracks.

What To Look For When Choosing a Restoration Company

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will respond Faster to Any Size Disaster.

What To Look For When Choosing A Restoration Company

When a homeowner’s house in Asheville, NC becomes damaged as a result of a flood, storm or fire, choosing a company to assist in the restoration process can be difficult. There are several factors to consider that can help homeowners find a company that’s Faster to Any Size Disaster.

1. Experience

After a disaster, damage to a home can be extensive and multifaceted. For example, water damage can also result in mold growth, and fires can make an area more prone to flooding. Though some companies specialize in certain types of disaster responses, it’s generally wise to choose a company that knows how to handle a myriad of issues. An experienced restoration company can also assist homeowners with their insurance claim and can answer questions.

2. A Quick Response

After a home becomes damaged, it’s often important for the restoration process to begin as quickly as possible. The longer it takes for restoration to begin, the more likely it is that the amount of damage will increase, meaning the cost and time it will take to complete restoration can drastically increase. A restoration company that is locally owned will respond Faster to Any Size Disaster, whereas a company that is not local will be more likely to have a slower response.

3. Access to the Right Tools and Equipment

When it comes to restoring a home, it’s often important that a restoration company can quickly access the tools and equipment necessary. When specialized equipment is needed to restore a home, waiting to equipment to arrive can bring the process to a grinding halt. However, a local business that is part of a franchise will have access to a myriad of helpful equipment and can also get the equipment to damaged homes in a timely manner.

Experience, response time and access to the best tools and equipment are important factors to consider when choosing a restoration company. Ultimately, a restoration company that is Faster to Any Size Disaster can improve the process for everyone involved.

3 Ways Hail Can Damage a Business

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

Hail can damage your roof

Hail Damage

If your business in Weaverville,NC, is impacted by hail, some issues, such as roof damage, are obvious. However, problems from storms are not always evident. Fortunately, if you are aware of the ways hail can affect your business, you can better prepare before it occurs.

1. Water Damage

When a hailstorm hits, many people do not think that water damage will happen as a result. However, hail can cause issues in a building if there is a problem with the roof or if ice chunks have broken a window and have allowed rain to enter the property. Attics and rooms that are closest to the roof are especially likely to experience water damage, which can in turn cause mold if the source of the moisture is not quickly eliminated.

2. Roof Issues

Unfortunately, hail often results in a building sustaining major roof damage. Even hail that appears small in size can cause shingles to become cracked or come off. If an area on your building’s roof has lost or damaged shingles, this can increase the likelihood of a leak, which may lead to even more problems in the interior of your business.

3. Destruction to Siding

While hail can cause roof and water damage, it can also harm a building’s siding. Material that is older is more likely to crack as a result of hail, and strong winds combined with ice can cause siding to come off of a building entirely. If your structure’s exterior needs to be replaced and your business is located in an area that is prone to storms, it can be helpful to install siding that is made of more durable material.

Knowing that heavy storms can cause water, siding and roof damage can make it easier to take steps to prevent major hail damage from occurring. If your business has been impacted by severe weather, it could be useful to work with storm restoration experts.

Fire Cleanup 101: Always Throw Away These Three Items When Damaged by a Fire

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage at a Weaverville, NC kitchen

3 Items To Throw Away When Fire Damage Occurs

A house fire is a devastating experience that everyone hopes to avoid. However, if a fire does occur in your home in Weaverville, NC , you likely are wondering what items can be restored by a fire cleanup company and what items you will need to throw away. Fortunately, many of your most valuable possessions and important documents can be repaired from damage caused by fire and smoke. However, there are three items that you should always discard if they have been anywhere near the fire.

Food

All food items that have apparent fire damage are unfit for human consumption. If the fire happened in another part of the house, there might be a chance that your food was unaffected. However, you will need to observe your food because high temperatures and power outages can also be an issue. Here are some signs that you need to throw away your food items:

•  Rusted or bulging cans
• Charred food
• Smoky smell inside the refrigerator
• Food in the freezer no longer frozen
• A foul smell before or while cooking

Medicine

If you have any medicine in your home, you will need to consider if it is at all possible it came into contact with high heat. If so, immediately throw it out! Medicines that is exposed to temperatures in the mid-80s or higher can lose their effectiveness. Also, some types of medicine can cause serious damage to your organs if they’ve experienced any kind of decay.

Cosmetics

Hazardous chemicals can easily make their way into any cosmetics that you may have, and extreme heat can even completely alter their chemical composition. Do not apply any makeups or hygiene products that have signs of either fire damage or soot stains to your skin to avoid irritation.

While you may want to preserve whatever you can after a fire, you’re better off making the decision to throw away any damaged food, medicines, or cosmetics to avoid a negative impact on your health!

The Types Of Equipment Used by Mold Remediation Specialists

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Our team will clean and treat the mold in your home.

Types of Safety Gear

Handling a small case of mildew or mold in your Asheville, NC  home might not seem like much of a reason to cover up in full-fledged protective gear. However, for the professionals in the business of mold damage and remediation, protective equipment is entirely essential. Here are some of the more common types of safety gear worn by specialists in the field, including everything from face masks to durable shoes.

Heavy-Duty Gloves

Coming into direct contact with mold or mildew can be hazardous, making a reliably safeguarded pair of gloves a necessity for mold cleanup. These gloves can be made from a variety of materials, such as:

• Nitrile
• Polyurethane
• Neoprene
• Polyvinylchloride (PVC)
• Natural rubber

The type of gloves chosen should depend on the type of mold involved and the extent of the damage, though any pair should extend upwards from the hand along the forearm for maximum coverage.

Fully-Equipped Respirator Masks

There’s nothing more important than covering the face when dealing with mold, as airborne spores can be inhaled or absorbed quite easily. Face masks can range anywhere from minimal coverage using simple sealed goggles and a common N-95 respirator, to full-face respirators with strong HEPA filters for advanced protection. 

Disposable Clothing

Extreme mold removal jobs generally require clothing that can be easily disposed of afterwards. Trained mold remediation technicians often go for full body suits and shoes made of protective yet breathable materials, sealing areas around the ankles and wrists for added measure. Respirator face masks and other durable head and foot coverings finish off the look for the ultimate protective shield against contact with mold.

The use of such intense precautionary gear goes to show just how harmful the effects of contact with mold can be. For this reason, it’s imperative that any mildew or mold found in your Asheville, NC  home is handled and removed by professionals with protective equipment that’s suited for the task. 

Tips for Avoiding Secondary Damages After Flooding

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Asheville East dehumidifiers

Responding to Flooding Immediately

When your home is affected by flooding from a winter storm or a broken pipe, secondary damage is a very real concern. As high humidity spreads throughout the residence, the chances of black mold taking hold and porous materials in your home absorbing moisture increase. Responding to flooding immediately is crucial to preventing further damage.

Commercial-Grade Equipment

Whether you involve a Asheville,NC , flood damage cleanup company or try to tackle the situation on your own, you will need to use commercial-grade drying equipment. There are several reasons for this.

•  Your home's air conditioner isn't strong enough to handle the additional moisture.
• The longer it takes to thoroughly dry your home, the more at risk you are of facing black mold damages.
• You'll get back to your normal routines more quickly.

Secondary Damages

Additional damages after flooding include the growth of mold behind drywall, in the attic, below carpeting, and in hidden corners. High levels of moistures can lead to weakening in the materials used to build your home, including wood, insulation, and cabinetry. In addition to long-term negative effects, your costs and losses could be increased when water extends from the initial affected area. As water spreads under doors and through walls, it reaches areas of the home that could have been protected. Removing water and drying the area thoroughly is the best way to avoid the spread of damages.

Water Removal Technicians

High volume dehumidifiers, specialized heaters, and powerful fans are necessary tools for quickly and thoroughly drying rooms affected by flooding. Professional flood damage restoration technicians have the training and experience to set the equipment up for quick results. Experienced workers are often willing to share tips for avoiding problems such as recurring leaks or flooding.

Takeaway Tips

Remember, you need to act immediately. Powerful commercial-grade tools are essential for preventing secondary damages, such as black mold. Hiring Asheville,NC , professionals is a great way to enjoy long-term protection for the well-being of your home and the health of your family.

Navigating Fire Damage Estimation

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial fire in Asheville, NC

Besides the emotional turmoil, one of the biggest costs of a fire is damage. In 2018, experts estimate the average cost of repairing fire damages at around $12,000. It takes time for your Asheville,NC, business to get back to normal, but you can help by jump starting the fire damage estimation process. Here are two steps to take as soon as the flames die down.

Document the Damage

Your insurer won’t waste much time getting to you, but in the meantime, you can help by documenting some things on your own. Those include:

• Taking pictures
  
• Taking notes
  
• Taking inventory of damaged personal property
  

Use a disposable camera to take pictures of the damage. Look for smaller damage and take notes to help you remember things. Your notes should also include any property that has been damaged or destroyed. A good rule of thumb is to begin the process before doing any cleanup.

Call Your Insurer

It can be tempting to wait a few days to settle down from the incident to reach out to your insurer, but this isn’t the best approach. That’s especially true if there’s a chance that weather or vandals could cause any further damage to your property, as insurers won’t want to cover that. Instead, as soon as the fire is out, and the immediate threat is gone, reach out to initiate the insurance investigation process. Your insurer will schedule a visit to help you get a good initial estimate of how much the damages will cost. With that in hand, you can start shopping around for contractors to help with repairs.

A commercial fire can be stressful, but there are steps you can take to make things flow smoothly and quickly. Understanding the ins and outs of the fire damage estimate process is one of them. Use these tips to help get back on track fast.

A Plan for Your Business

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

A flood event or other disaster in Swannanoa,NC, can quickly go from a setback to a serious problem if left unchecked. Learn how to keep your company online and thriving by developing a business continuity plan.

1. Defining the Plan

No business owner can afford to go without some kind of continuity plan, since the loss of revenue due to a major disruption can be catastrophic. Some businesses never recover from such an event due to a combination of damaged infrastructure and customer defection. The first step in any such plan is an assessment module, whereby a team is created to analyze the damage and identify the most important processes needed to keep the company running while repairs take place.

2. Allocating Resources

The various pieces of the business continuity plan will need to be submitted for review and implementation by managers and other heads of departments. New information about missing elements may be necessary to amend the recovery strategy at this stage. Tools for developing your emergency response plan are available on various websites, such as ready.gov and drii.org, including workshops and seminars.

3. Implementation Steps

Depending on the nature of the business, the owners and operators may have backup equipment and staff available in case of an emergency. For example, if a part of a heating system was adversely affected by a flood event, there may be a redundant unit elsewhere in the building that can fully heat the property until a qualified restoration professional can assess the water damage. However, if no such options are available, operations and employees must be prepared to move offsite temporarily. This will require additional expenditure and must be accounted for in the response plan.

While an emergency event or natural disaster can throw a wrench in your normal workplace flow, with proper planning, it doesn’t have to bring the entire company to a halt. Create and share a business continuity plan by reviewing the relevant resources.
A Plan for Your Business.

7 Appealing Candle Alternatives

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Essential oil diffusers are healthier and give a better smell to your Weaverville,NC home

Candle Alternatives

Many homeowners in Weaverville,NC, may enjoy lighting candles. Although they may enhance the ambiance and aroma of a home, these devices can be a serious fire hazard. Fortunately, there are numerous appealing candle alternatives available that pose less of a safety threat.

1. Electric Candles

If you enjoy the way traditional candles look, an electric candle may be an ideal replacement. It’s battery-powered, can help brighten dim spaces and eliminates the threat of a candle fire.

2. Stringed Lights

Stringed lights are another appealing light option. Drape them around dressers, bookshelves or the ceiling and maintain a festive atmosphere inside your home throughout the year.

3. Oil or Wax Warmers

If you want your candle replacement to emit light and distribute scent, an oil or wax warmer may be an ideal choice. These devices use a lightbulb, which warms the scented solution, helping to disperse it.

4. Plug-in Air Fresheners

Plug-in air fresheners are also attractive candle alternatives that distribute pleasant aromas through the air. Some models may also offer a light source.

5. Salt Lamps

Salt lamps are another electric, flameless option. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, these devices can help remove contaminates from the air. As a result, they may provide therapeutic benefits, such as enhanced sleep and decreased asthma and allergy symptoms.

6. Essential Oil Diffuser

Essential oil diffusers are popular aromatherapy tools that emit evaporated essential oils, which may help purify the air and promote a relaxed state of mind. In addition to appealing scents, some devices may also emit light.

7. Reed Diffuser

If you like candles primarily because of their scent, you may enjoy using a device that does not require electricity. A reed diffuser, for example, uses absorbent reeds and scented oil to emit fragrance.

There are numerous candle alternatives available on the market that dramatically reduce the threat of a fire and its subsequent cleanup and restoration requirements. Although not every flameless device emits both a pleasant aroma and light, some offer potential health benefits that may be worth investigating further.

5 Steps for Fixing a Toilet Leak

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

Always make sure to check your toilet tank for cracks and leaks to avoid potential water damage

5 Steps for Fixing a Toilet Leak

Few problems can cause more disruption in your home than a leaking toilet. The longer the issue goes unresolved, the more problems it can cause, resulting in the need to hire water damage specialists. If you notice water on the floor after you flush, and the water is not coming from the top of the bowl itself, you may have to remove the toilet to fix the leak. Here are the five basic steps of that process.

1. Drain and Detach

The first step of toilet repair is draining all the water out of the tank and bowl. Turn off the water at the shut-off valve; then flush the toilet. You may notice water coming out from under the base, confirming that the leak is coming from the toilet itself and not a supply line. Once the toilet is drained, detach it from the water source.

2. Rock and Remove

To fix a leaking toilet, you have to get to the source of the problem, so you will need to rock it back and forth until the wax seal holding it in place is broken. Place the toilet to the side on a pallet of towels.

3. Assess and Replace

A broken flange, inadequate seal or loose bolts could all be the cause of the leak. Once you determine the problem, you can visit any hardware store in Asheville, NC, to find the parts you need to replace.

4. Press and Tighten

Once the gasket and flange are back in place, it is time to replace the old toilet. Ease it onto the gasket, making sure it is parallel to the wall, and press down. Tighten the bolts that keep it where it belongs.

5. Reconnect and Test

Hook the supply line back up to the toilet and turn the water back on at the valve. Flush it to make sure that the leak has been repaired. If no water comes out the base, your efforts have been successful!

Replacing a leaking toilet can be easy. Just take it one step at a time.

3 Tips on Preventing Mold in Your Rental Home

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growing behind the drywall after a pipe break in Biltmore,NC

Mold Prevention

It’s important that your rental home is comfortable and safe, but mold in your home in Biltmore,NC, can affect both the appearance of your home as well as the safety of the home. However, prioritizing mold prevention can help you keep mold from growing in your home.

1. Identify Likely Causes

Even if there are not currently signs of mold growth in your rental home, it can be helpful to be aware of where mold would most likely grow. For example, basements and bathrooms are likely to have mold due to higher levels of humidity. Pipe breaks can also result in water damage, which causes mold to grow quickly. In order to prevent mold, it’s also often helpful to make sure all appliances in your rental home are working properly and fix any leaks as soon as possible.

2. Eliminate Moisture

Mold grows wherever there is moisture and eliminating moisture in your home is often an important step in mold prevention. In areas near water, like kitchens, bathrooms or basements, make sure to remove water from any spills or leaks. Fans can also help to increase the airflow and keep the environment drier. In particularly humid climates, it may help to use a dehumidifier in your rental home.

3. Lower the Heat

Though you may not think about the temperature in your home affecting mold, mold tends to grow in warm environments. If you are able to lower the heat in your home, this can often help to decrease the humidity in your home. However, in your pursuit to prevent mold, you generally don’t want to turn off the heat entirely as this could decrease the airflow and make it easier for mold to grow.

Mold prevention can help you keep your rental home looking its best while also keeping the home safe, ultimately saving you the stress, money and time of having to remove mold. If your rental home is affected by mold, however, many people find it helpful to work with mold remediation professionals.

The Hidden Damage of Commercial Fires

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

Foyer fire damage in Weaverville,NC

As a business owner in Weaverville,NC, you make money by meeting customer demands. To do so, you constantly invest in processes, equipment and people. You must also, however, plan for catastrophes. As you probably know, few things can be more destructive than a commercial fire. When smoke clears, though, you may notice hidden damage from the water firefighters used to extinguish blazes. Simply put, to restore your business to its pre-fire condition, you must think about water cleanup.

Fires Are Tremendously Destructive

Walking through a commercial building after a fire can be disheartening. After all, fire has a way of touching virtually all parts of a business. If your company has survived a fire, you may notice damage to the following:

• The building
• Electronic devices
• HVAC systems
• Equipment
• Inventory
  

Water Often Causes a Mess

When firefighters respond to a commercial blaze, they usually bring a significant amount of water with them. Moreover, fire-suppression sprinklers often pour water onto flames to extinguish them. As a result, you don’t only have to deal with smoke cleanup and fire cleanup. On the contrary, you must address water cleanup as well. This includes removing standing water, cleaning furnishings and managing mold growth.

Restoration Technicians Handle Water

In some commercial fires, buildings and their contents are a total loss. With others, though, business owners seek the help of an emergency fire-restoration service. Technicians have the expertise and equipment to analyze damage and recommend a restoration strategy. To increase your company’s odds of recovering from a commercial fire, you must not wait to begin the restoration process. As you may suspect, water often continues to cause damage until you remove it from your property.

No business owner wants to go through a commercial fire. While fire damage can be considerable, you must think about fire-suppression measures. By working with the right team to ensure adequate water cleanup, you can focus on continuing to meet the needs of your customers.

Protect Your Home From Floods With Landscaping Changes

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

Clogged drain in a Biltmore, NC home

Landscaping Changes

If you're impacted by outside flooding whenever a rain storm sweeps through your area, you may want to take a look at your landscaping. With a few changes, you may prevent soil erosion and reduce the impact of stormwater runoff.

1. Change Your Landscape

Although landscaping additions do require a bit of work and perhaps a financial investment, they can be well worth your efforts. Soil erosion can leach important nutrients from the land, leaving the area with inadequate resources and leading to situations that require the work of rain storm recovery professionals. Erosion can also impact homes in other ways:

• Leaving foundations vulnerable
• Clogging drains
• Affecting the health of gardens and crops
• Leaving behind dust rather than soil
• Transferring pesticides and sediment into municipal water systems

2. Create a Swale

A shallow depression directs the flow of rain drainage to a dry well or garden bed. For best results, line the slopes of the swale with deep-rooting plants, and line the deepest section with rocks. Make sure the swale channels water to an area that offers adequate drainage and can handle excess water during times of outside flooding.

3. Add and Maintain Rain Spouts

Always pay attention to the rain gutters lining your roof. Make sure water can flow easily to the downspout and away from the house. Consider adding a downspout diverter that directs the water away from the walls and foundation of your home during heavy rainfall. This simple step is vital to keeping moisture away from the foundation and structure of the home.

4. Add Drainage Next to Concrete Driveways

Driveways are one of the top offenders when it comes to water runoff. By adding grass, gravel, or decorative paving next to the driveway (or replacing the concrete altogether), you can mitigate much of the erosion that occurs during flooding.

These landscaping tips can reduce a lot of the erosion that results from outside flooding in Biltmore,NC, and there are many green solutions that can increase your efforts. Look into rain gardens, the use of mushrooms, green roofs, and mulching for more ideas.

How Lightning Strikes Can Damage Your Home

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a Swannanoa,NC home

When storm season begins in Swannanoa,NC, you may hear a lot of advice about how important it is to go inside whenever a storm that could produce lightning is in your area. While that is good advice, there are also precautions to take once you're inside. The electrical charges slicing through the air can distress your home, even causing a lightning fire. Here are some tips on how to protect yourself and your property.

Pathways to the Ground

Once your house is struck, the electrical surge is going to look for a way to the ground. It may take many pathways. Wiring and pipes are the most likely conductors, but metal window frames may also provide a conduit. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid certain activities during a storm:

• Taking a shower or bath
• Using corded electronic equipment, such as a computer or video games
• Washing hands
• Doing dishes
• Sitting by windows or doors

Electrical Power Surges

It is a good idea to unplug your electronic equipment altogether if you know that a storm is on its way. Even if it doesn't cause a lightning fire, such a powerful strike to your house can fry any equipment that is along a branch of its pathway. While some restoration experts may be able to salvage some data, you can save yourself a lot of frustration and money by separating equipment from the power source.

Fire Breakout Destruction

One of the most devastating effects of electrical storms could be a house fire. If a fire breaks out after a strike, you cannot assume that the rain in the storm will be sufficient to put the fire out. Call the fire department immediately. That is your best chance at saving your home.

From power surges to a lightning fire, if your house is struck by lightning during a storm, it could sustain some damage. Take precautions to protect yourself, but have emergency personnel on speed dial just in case.

3 Storm Flooding Business Survival Tips

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Flood damage after storm in a Weaverville,NC commercial office building

Storm warnings in Weaverville,NC, may give you the heads up that you need to prepare, but what steps are most important and how should they be carried out? Use the following tips to protect your people, your equipment and inventory, and your buildings as much as possible when storms hit. Learn how to reduce your losses and when to tear out damaged property when flooding is an issue.

1. Focus on Personnel Safety

Your first step when storms lead to flooding is to follow all evacuation warnings. Failure to follow evacuation instructions could lead to injuries or deaths. Before the storm hits, you should have an evacuation protocol in place, so your employees, renters, or personnel know exactly how to respond, where to go, and how to remain in contact with you.

2. Protect Property and Documents

The more you know about the types of flood risk in Weaverville,NC, the risk of flooding, and whether to invest in flood insurance policies, the better prepared you'll be when disasters strike. Develop and practice evacuation routes and emergency response procedures. Take steps such as storing documents in waterproof containers and backing data up on the cloud. Keep your most valuable equipment and supplies on higher levels of the building and keep up a regular schedule of maintenance to reduce water damage.

3. Begin Storm Restoration Right Away

As soon as you get the go-ahead from authorities, give your properties some attention. This will involve removing all water and drying the property. You may want to involve storm restoration professionals in this step and the following steps. Next, tear out damaged, wet materials, such as soggy ceilings and warped studs. As you tear out sections of the building that you can't repair, continue the drying process, so you can be sure to get all of the hidden areas of the property. Finally, turn your focus to the restoration of your building.

How To Evaluate a Leaking Bathtub or Shower

10/12/2018 (Permalink)

Damp spots on your bathroom walls can mean a leaking bathtub or shower problem

Your bathtub and shower are exposed daily to water. Regardless of your home’s age, plumbing components and fixtures can break or deteriorate, which may allow water to flow into unintended places. No home in Asheville,NC, is immune from a potential shower or bathtub leak, so it’s important for every homeowner to recognize the signs of water leaks and act promptly to minimize damage.

Locating a Water Leak

Water can leak for a significant period before it becomes noticeable. Common indications of a leaking bathtub or shower include the following:

• Damp spots on walls
• Water dripping from overhead
• Stained ceilings
• Puddles around tub or shower
• Presence of a musty odor

Investigating Bathtub Issues

To diagnose the source of a bathtub leak, you may need to remove the tub’s side panel or access the crawl space under your home to check for cracked pipes, leaking joints or a broken waste trap. If you find a leak, replace any damaged components and tighten loose washers. To confirm the problem is resolved, plug the tub, fill it with water and then let the water drain.

Diagnosing Shower Pan Leaks

Pre-fabricated shower pans may crack and leak, especially if they move due to improper installation or a warped subfloor. A shifting pan can also damage seals, rendering them ineffective.

To confirm a shower pan leak, take the following steps:

• Plug the shower drain with a stopper or duct tape
• Fill the pan with water
• Mark the water level
• Allow the water to sit for at least eight hours

If the shower is not properly plugged, some water may escape. To confirm a leak, you should check the subfloor below the shower for signs of water damage. A moving shower pan can cause significant problems, so it’s important to promptly correct the problem.

Taking Immediate Action

If you suspect a water leak, find the water source and complete the necessary repairs. Ignoring a shower or bathtub leak is never a good idea because it can result in significant water damage that may require extensive cleanup and restoration efforts.

7 Flood Safety Tips To Be Evacuation Ready

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Safety is first during a flood in your area

When you learn of flood warnings in your area, you must be ready to leave quickly. Your chance of successfully evacuating depends on being properly prepared. Here are 7 safety tips to get you evacuation ready for a flood disaster:

1. Know the flood risk in your area. Check flood maps for your property’s risk. Also note the topography of the surrounding area. Where are rivers, creeks, high areas and low areas?

2. Know evacuation routes and alternatives. Check local authorities for existing routes. Increase your flood safety by anticipating areas that may be impassible such as small creeks that could channel larger amounts of water, low areas and bridges.

3. Know your destination. Have enough supplies to reach your destination and make sure your family knows where to find you.

4. Keep your car filled with gas. You won’t have time to wait in line at a gas station when evacuating, or worse, risk not getting gas due to a shortage from demand in the local area.

5. Keep emergency cash ready. ATMS will have long lines and quickly run out of cash.

6. Keep a “go bag” so you can leave fast. Having some personal items as well as non-perishable food, water and medications in a bag is a great way to prepare for a fast departure.

7. Make a communication plan. Remember that communications can be disrupted during disasters and flood safety includes having a plan for this. Designating a distant friend as a point of contact for your family is best.

Flood safety includes returning home to Asheville, NC, only after the flood waters recede and local authorities determine it is safe. Do not drive through flood waters and do not go around police barricades, which are there for your safety. You will have a big job ahead of you with cleanup, but a professional remediation company can guide you through the process.

For more on Asheville click here. 

Category Three Water: What Is It and Who Should Clean It?

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage can be risky in your Asheville home or business

Asheville, NC, is prone to flooding during the rainy season. As business owners, this presents a growing concern for not only safety and profitability but the integrity of your property. Thankfully, most insurance companies cover burst pipes and toilet overflow; however, if your business is ever struck by flood water, you may be left with a few questions about water categories, especially category three.

1. What Is Category Three Water Damage?

Category three water damage is typical in large-scale flooding. This natural disaster tends to overflow rivers and overburden sewage systems leading to a dangerous mixture call the black water. At this category level, water is capable of supporting bacterial growth and becomes hazardous for humans and pets to consume or come into contact.

2. Can You Clean Category Three Water Damage Yourself?

No, unless you are a professional, you should not attempt to clean black water yourself. This type of flood water can cause illness and disease and possibly death if touched or ingested. It is not uncommon for this type of water to carry hepatitis pathogens, and you do not need to swallow this water to become ill or a carrier.

3. Who Cleans This Type of Water Damage?

As category three water is dangerous, it is wise to seek the assistance of professionals who hold the appropriate certifications and training to handle and dispose of this type of water. You can check with your local municipalities or emergency managers to find restoration specialists capable of this type of work.

Since flooding is a concern for most business owners in this area, and category three flood water presents potential risk from exposure, it is wise to seek assistance from your insurance provider and local government to ensure that you as well as your business remain safe. Do not let the concern over expense come above the concern for your health.

To Test or Not To Test: Detecting Mold in Your Home

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Testing mold in your home or business to find the severity of the damage

As a homeowner, you probably take great pride in being able to care for your home yourself. You generally have the knowledge and the skill to keep it clean and safe for your family. Certain problems, however, such as mold growth, may require professional help. You need a certified industrial hygienist to conduct the mold testing and, if a mold problem is found, a mold remediation specialist to take care of it.

Inspection Techniques

When the CIH arrives at your home in Asheville, NC, he or she will go through the process of analyzing the air quality in your home. The CIH will perform three main techniques:

• Conduct a visual inspection
• Measure moisture in the air
• Compare baseline outdoor air samples to indoor air samples

Two results of mold testing can be indicative of a problem. First, if the mold spores of a particular species are more highly concentrated in the indoor air than in the outdoor air, they are probably feeding off something and thus multiplying at a more rapid rate than usual. Second, if there is a species of mold found inside that is not found outside, this, too, can indicate a problem.

DIY Techniques

Many home improvement stores sell kits so that their customers can conduct DIY mold testing in their homes. More often than not, however, a mold kit is a waste of money. The kit simply tests for the presence of mold. Without fail, the results are going to be positive. Mold is everywhere. Without first establishing a baseline test of mold concentration found outdoors, no indoor test is going to tell you anything useful.

If you suspect that there is a mold problem in your home, you are better off having a CIH conduct the mold testing rather than trying to do it yourself. The professional will get more accurate results which leads to your problem getting resolved more quickly.

For more on Asheville click here. 

What Is Smoke Damage Restoration in Asheville East?

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke damage restoration isn't an easy task and should be left to the professionals.

What is smoke damage restoration?

Restoring a home after a fire requires a lot of work. One of the most involved parts of recovery is smoke damage restoration. Asheville East Smoke damage restoration is an integral part of the process. Not only does it make the home presentable, but it removes harmful carcinogens and restores structural integrity. It is best to seek help from a professional restoration company when dealing with smoke damage. 

While most don't realize it, there are multiple types of smoke. Professionals can easily identify the types of smoke present and how to remove damage from a variety of materials. Asheville East Smoke restoration companies are also equipped for the job. They have the knowledge and tools to effectively remove smoke damage. Regardless of the size and scope of the damage, a professional restoration company will be able to get the job done effectively. To get a better understanding about the process and how a restoration company can help, there are a few things homeowners need to know.

Assessing The Damage

Before any restoration work is completed, a fire damage assessment must be performed. This is an important part of the process. It helps determine the costs involved and the best way to approach the project. To get a proper assessment, homeowners should contact a restoration company and their insurance company. Both parties will inspect the damage separately and arrive at cost. They look at the extent of the damage and calculate a cost based on how much work needs to be done. The final cost should cover cleaning the smoke, repairing structural damage, and restoring the home back to what it used to be. If the insurance company and restoration company arrive at different costs, you may end up having to pay the difference. To avoid having to pay too much out of pocket costs, you can go with a restoration company recommended by the insurance company. This usually means that the two companies are working together, which could result in a fair settlement without headaches. 

The Restoration Process

Once both parties have settled on a restoration cost, the process begins. The restoration company must begin working fast. While a fire may be put out, damage continues to occur well afterwards. One of the biggest problems faced immediately after a fire is mold and mildew growth. Due to the presence of water and heat, the home instantly becomes a breeding ground for fungi. Within 24 hours, harmful mold will begin to grow. It is important to halt this process as soon as possible. To stop this growth process, the restoration company will place dehumidifiers throughout the home. It absorbs water in the air, ultimately bringing the humidity level down and stopping growth. 

Restoration companies use a variety of methods to remove smoke damage in Asheville East. Since a home has a number of different surfaces, they must use the appropriate cleaner to do the job effectively. These cleaners remove soot and smoke to reveal a clean surface. Professional restoration companies also use deodorizers to remove the pungent smell that is left behind. If not cleaned properly, a home can wreak of smoke well after a fire. With deodorizers, the smell is removed. Throughout the entire process, workers will salvage as much as they can. Everything else will need to be repaired or replaced.

Smoke damage restoration isn't an easy task and should be left to the professionals. Restoration companies use heavy-duty equipment to get the job done, ensuring that the restoration job is thorough. They'll also have the knowledge to clean and salvage materials accordingly. With their help, homeowners can recover and return to their normal lives. To get more information about smoke restoration and find professionals in the area, homeowners can contact their insurance agent or a professional restoration company.

Fire Damage Restoration

We understand that smoke and fire damage is both devastating and disruptive to your family or business. SERVPRO of Asheville East Professionals respond quickly to repair fire, smoke, and soot damage, including:

• Fire damage cleanup
• Smoke and soot damage cleaning and repair
• Cleaning your home's contents and belongings
• Eliminating fire and smoke odor and deodorization

Mold Damage Asheville - Mold Testing in Asheville

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores.

Asheville Mold Testing 

When water damage has struck your home, you could also have mold. Mold growth and mold spores form and thrive where moisture is readily available. Asheville molds form especially on water damaged ceilings, floors, walls. 

Mold Testing 

A professional mold remediation company in Asheville can perform mold testing to determine the extent of your mold damage. Insurance companies may not cover services for mold testing, so check to be sure. A mold inspector collects samples from your home and sends them to a lab for testing. 

Lab testing can confirm mold testing. The mold professional then has a level of mold in your home and what locations that tested positive for mold growth. These can be treated, cleaned, or removed depending on the severity of the damage. A mold testing expert can determine the best course of action to take to rid yourself of dangerous and toxic mold in Asheville. 

Mold restoration experts in Asheville know exactly where to look for mold in your home. They also know that mold is often hidden in many areas throughout the home and even be present in the air. Fiber optic technology can help mold experts find mold behind walls and underneath floors. Further, a hygrometer detects amounts of moisture. You could conduct mold tests on your own but many times self-test kits fail to detect the presence of mold spores or mold levels in your home or business accurately. Mold can also be dangerous to dispose of on your own. Remember; you can always call a mold remediation expert for help. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Mold can cause smelly odors and not to mention it can cause health effects. It is important to remediate mold quickly whenever you have had water damage or flood damage. When you have mold damage needs in Asheville, Black Mountain, Candler, Fairview, or the surrounding areas Call SERVPRO of Asheville East at (828) 255-4535 today! 

Water Damage After a Fire

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

Your belongings can become damaged from the water after fire fighting efforts

If your Asheville, NC, business has sustained serious fire damage, chances are that there's also significant damage due to water. If a fire hose was used to put out the flames, you'll have water-logged carpets and drywall, and the further threat of mold due to the saturation. You'll need the services of a qualified restoration company to take care of the water damage as well as the fire damage.

A good restoration company will tackle the problem by:

• Inspecting the damage
• Removing the water
• Dehumidifying and drying
• Sanitization and Cleaning
• Repairing the damage

Assessing the Damage

A careful inspection by the restoration company will determine where the damage is, and how severe it is. This is an important step that must take place before any cleanup can begin.

Removing the Water

This needs to be done as soon as possible to minimize any further damage. Professional-strength vacuums and pumps are used to extract any standing water from the building.

Dehumidifying and Drying

After as much water as possible is removed with pumps and vacuums, a further drying process is undertaken to remove any water that is not easily accessible and has been left behind. The remaining moisture is drawn off through the use of dehumidifiers and air movers.

Sanitization and Cleaning

At this point, it's important to make sure there is no health threat from mold or microbes. Any salvageable items will be treated by one of a number of specialized methods to make sure they are clean and sanitary. Foggers and air scrubbers will be brought in to take care of odors.

Repairing the Damage

Once the water has been fully removed and any health issues from mold or microbes has been addressed, the process of repair and restoration can begin. This can include anything from repairing a few panels of drywall and replacing carpets to major work like reconstructing entire rooms of the building.

Unfortunately, you'll have to deal with water damage after you've had a fire damage your business. But a good, professional restoration company will be able to handle both and get you back to normal as soon as possible.

For more on Asheville click here. 

Storm Preparation for Your Home

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Storms in Asheville, NC can happen abruptly, so it helps to be prepared. There are many steps that can be taken ahead of time to ensure your home is ready for storm season. Don’t wait until flood water is threatening your property to take the necessary precautions.

Outside Checklist

Take a survey of the outside of your home before a storm hits. Here are some of the most common things to look for.

• Roof: Check for any potential leaks so they can be fixed prior to the storm. If there are loose pieces, fasten down as much as you can. Even though most people think of water damage coming from the ground up, it can also come from above, so ensuring that the roof is solid and secure is a great place to start.
• Outside furniture: Review all your objects that dwell outdoors. Anything that isn’t secured already should be put away inside or fastened for stability. Beyond concerns of a flooded building, loose furnishings could also be swept away.
• Gutters: Flood water happens when there is an overflow in a specific area. You will want to clean your gutters and establish that they are attached securely to help the water flow in the appropriate areas. Having clogged gutters can prevent the water from channeling where it shouldn’t go and causing water damage to your home.
• Windows: Just as dams prevent water from flowing in specific areas, boards or storm shutters can be important deterrents for the impending storm. Often wind is a companion to water in strong weather. Barricading doors and windows can help to prevent destruction.

Prior Preparation Is Key

Completing an analysis of the outside of your home will show you where the weak points of entry are for flood water. If there is anything that you are unable to repair or protect on your own, calling a storm damage specialist prior to the inclement weather can help comfort you once it hits. Preparing your house for storms is a beneficial way to prevent a flooded building or water damage. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on water damage. 

Quick Guide to Your Commercial Mold Coverage

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Have you been smelling something musty in your Asheville, NC commercial building? This off-putting odor could be a sign that you have mold growing somewhere in your space. It's often a good idea to hire a mold cleanup crew to remove this growth, but it may cost a lot up front. Depending on the circumstances that brought about the growth, your commercial insurance may help pay for the cleanup. The exact coverage you have depends on your policy, but common covered circumstances include the following:

• Flooding from natural disasters
• Flooding from a burst water pipe
• Flooding from fire sprinklers

You can learn more about the potential coverage you have by reading this quick guide.

Cost of Testing

Mold damage isn't always noticeable. Sometimes you have to have your building tested to determine if there is really a problem. Some policies may help pay for this testing. Other times, you may want to do testing after the cleanup is finished to ensure all of the mold has been removed. This may also fall under the coverage of your policy.

Cost of Primary Damage

No matter what caused the flood waters, chances are the liquid caused some serious damage to your commercial space. Your commercial insurance should help pay for these damages. This includes the removal of damaged drywall, flooring or ceiling tiles and the replacement of these materials. Anything that was directly affected by the mold could by covered by insurance.

Cost of Secondary Damage

Sometimes your mold cleanup team may have to tear out some drywall to gain access to the problem area. The drywall itself was not affected by the mold, but it still had to be removed. This secondary type of damage may fall under the protection of your mold insurance.

Every commercial insurance policy is a little different. Many will help pay for mold cleanup, but you can learn more about your specific coverage by talking with your insurance provider. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on mold. 

Water Damage Restoration in Asheville East

6/24/2018 (Permalink)

Homes experience considerable damage after being exposed to water. Whether it is from putting out a house fire or from a flood, water can wreak havoc on a home instantly. Homeowners should never attempt to restore a home themselves. In fact, homeowners shouldn't even enter their home after it has been exposed to water damage. Homes often lose structural integrity, putting anyone who enters it at risk. If you've experienced water damage of any kind, it is important to contact professionals. A professional restoration team will be able to bring the home back to its former glory by cleaning and repairing it. They'll handle every aspect of the restoration process, ensuring that the job is done efficiently. To better understand why it is imperative to get help from professionals, homeowners should understand the hazards that come from water damage Asheville East.

Mold and Mildew

While most don't realize it, one biggest dangers posed to homeowners after experiencing Asheville East water damage is mold and mildew. These growths are a form of secondary damage that can be more dangerous than the actual flood or fire. Because homes are closed off from fresh air, the presence of water increases humidity levels. After a flood or fire, homes will become incredibly damp and humid, creating the perfect breeding ground for mold. The warm and moist environment can even cause spores and fungi to grow. 

The danger with mold and mildew lies with the health effects they cause. Those with even moderate allergies can experience flu-like symptoms shortly after exposure. Inhaling these pathogens can even cause life-threatening ailments. Homeowners risk getting cancer, immune diseases, and a number of other conditions. There are numerous types of mold and mildew that can grow, all of which are dangerous to humans. To avoid the risk of exposure, homeowners shouldn't enter their home until it is fully restored.

Professionals use a variety of methods to stop the growth process and eliminate any existing pathogens. They have the knowledge and expertise required to deal with these harmful growths. They'll be able to clear the home of mold and mildew before homeowners have a chance to enter.

The Restoration Process

A professional restoration team can begin the process as soon as possible, often times beginning immediately after a fire or flood. This helps to ensure that any the risk of further damage is reduced. They will begin by removing excess water from the home. They'll use a number of drying techniques to rid the home of moisture as soon as possible. This helps to stunt the growth of mildew. They'll often use heavy equipment to get the job done, such as driers and dehumidifiers. Dehumidifiers will remove moisture and heat from the air to further lessen the chances of mold growth. If mold is already present, they can remove it effectively and sanitize the area, making it safe.

In addition to mold and moisture removal, restoration companies work to repair any structural damage that may have occurred. Homes can experience significant structural damage when exposed to water, making the home unlivable. Restoration teams work to secure the home's structural integrity by removing and replacing certain components. To ensure that the home is completely safe for occupancy, they'll often examine the entire home for damage that may be undetectable. In the end, their work will make it safe for homeowners to enter.

Asheville East Water damage restorations help homeowners regain their space. It's important for homeowners to get help from professionals immediately after a fire so that their home doesn't experience further damage. In most cases, homeowners can get their insurance company to cover the costs. Depending on the scope of the damage, a restoration company can restore a home quickly and efficiently, allowing homeowners to return in no time without having to risk their personal safety and health. For more information about how water damage restoration can help, homeowners should contact a professional restoration company.

Water Damage Restoration

Basement flooding or storm damage doesn't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. We respond to your residential or commercial water removal and cleanup needs. Our fast response time and advanced drying methods help prevent secondary damage and mold. Common causes of water damage are:

• Flooding caused by severe weather
• Plumbing leaks
• Sink, bathtub or toilet overflow
• Sewage backup

A Business Continuity Plan: Your Company’s Insurance Against Sudden Loss

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Flooded building in Asheville.

Humans frequently tend to look on the positive side of life, so many executives often believe disaster happens to another company in another state, not to a company in Asheville, NC Although administrators may hear the terms such as ‘disaster recovery implementation’ and ‘business continuity’, it often seems unlikely that his or her business will experience a massive disruptive event. The fact is, a business continuity plan is much more than a strategy for business survival after a natural disaster.

Government Help

Programs for business continuity such as those recommended by the United States Government, suggest implementing continuity planning to help prevent business damage from:

• Natural disaster
• Departure of a key staffer
• Unexpected illness
• Loss of crucial supplier
• Failure of critical machinery
• Loss of power or internet service

By having an emergency response plan in place, established strategies to keep loss at an acceptable level and restore business operations can quickly be implemented after a significant business loss. Not only can the execution of the plan keep the business open, but it may also save revenue and customers.

Process Planning

There are four steps involved in developing a business continuity plan. These steps include:

• Identifying crucial business processes and functions
• Developing recovery strategies
• Establish plan development frameworks
• Organizing testing and training of plans

The plan will help establish which individuals are in charge during an emergency, and who is responsible for diminishing the loss. The continuity plan can also establish a procedure for contacting employees, suppliers, and managers.

Emergency Response

Setting up a business continuity plan for uninterrupted emergency operations can act as a safety net and help your business swiftly recover from threats to the company before the loss can adversely influence your business. You can never know when a sudden loss may have a financial consequence for your company, but you can take precautions in the event something may occur in the future. Think of the program as your company’s insurance against sudden loss. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on commercial water loss. 

3 Steps for Cleaning Your Business' Inventory After a Fire

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Give SERVPRO a call after commercial fire damage.

The aftermath of a fire at your Asheville, NC business may leave your inventory, machinery and office furniture with troublesome smoke damage. You may wonder if any of these items are salvageable or if they will need to be replaced. These decisions can be difficult; however, a service that specializes in repairing fire damage and restoration can assist you with the industrial dry cleaning and care of your inventory, and there are a few actions you can take before its technicians arrive.

1. Sort Items for Cleaning

Once your building has been deemed safe to enter by local fire officials, you can start sorting through your inventory and supplies to see what can be salvaged and cleaned. If you own a restaurant, metal items such as pots and pans and utensils can be sterilized with boiling water. Canned foods that have been warped or otherwise affected by heat should be discarded. If you are unsure about whether an item can be salvaged, you can set it aside for content cleaning professionals to inspect.

2. Check for Inventory Damage

If you believe stored inventory has suffered smoke damage, you may be able to recover some losses by having some items professionally cleaned. For example, if you own a clothing boutique and smoke damaged items stored in a back room, your restoration specialists may have dry cleaning processes available that can make these items like new once again.

3. Arrange for Storage Needs

Your building’s inventory, furniture and other items may require storage after a fire to protect them while repairs are made. Make a list of which can be stored easily and which may require considerable space. Your fire restoration technicians may also be able to advise you about content storage.

Dealing with the aftermath of a fire at your Asheville, NC business can be challenging. However, working with smoke damage and restoration experts who can assist you with dry cleaning and other services after a fire can help you get your business up and running again as soon as possible. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on commercial fire damage. 

Tips for Ridding Plants of Mildew

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

Mildew is a form of mold that grows primarily on living plants. Your Asheville, NC shrubs, indoor plants or crops may be susceptible to plant mildew. While this form of mold usually does not spread to your home, you may still want to work with a mold remediation team to address the issue as soon as possible. Mildew can actually act as a parasite and kill the plants it is on. To save your greenery, keep these tips in mind.

• Determine the mildew type. Mildew growth usually falls into one of two categories. It is either powdery or downy. Downy growth usually only affects a particular type of plant, such as grape or tomato, but powdery can affect any type of plant. Determining the type of mildew you're dealing with can help you figure out how you need to get rid of the growth.
• Avoid mildew cleaners. While you may be tempted to spray your plants with cleaners advertised for getting rid of mildew, this can actually do more harm to your vegetation than good. Before you spray any cleaners, make sure they are designed for use on plants.
• Use natural elements. Sunshine, water and outdoor air can help your potted flower survive the plant mildew. Direct sunlight allows your vegetation to dry out. Mildew, like mold, needs excess moisture to thrive. You can use water to remove the mildew from the surface of the leaves. Use moderate amounts of water to ensure you don't make the moisture problem worse. Outdoor air is another great way to get your greenery to self-adjust to normal moisture levels.
• Be careful when watering your plants. One common cause of mildew growth is trapped water on leaves. While you need to water your vegetation, you should try to put the appropriate amount of water near the roots rather than on the leaves.

Getting rid of plant mildew can help you keep your indoor and outdoor greens healthy and thriving. Removing the growth and controlling moisture is a great place to start. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on mold. 

What Lightning Strikes Can Do To Your Home

5/11/2018 (Permalink)

Many people view a crazy, thunderous storm as something to admire and enjoy in Asheville, NC. However, the effects of a lightning strike on your home can create significant hazardous situations, potentially leading to a lightning fire, structural or electrical damage and more. Here are a variety of ways that a powerful strike and ensuing storm can cause problems for your home and your family’s safety, and how to address these issues should they occur.

? Fire danger is the most common result of a formidable strike on your home. Given that strikes are most likely to hit the roof, a potential lightning fire breaking out on the roof or in the attic space becomes far more likely than in any other area of the home. However, lightning can target wiring and pipes as well, igniting your interior systems and creating a widespread household fire risk. If a strike has hit your residence, calling the fire department immediately is crucial to handling any potential fire dangers.
? If a strike does hit any of the electrical wiring, a power surge can be set off throughout the home. This explosive event can cause appliance damage, potentially starting a house fire. If a powerful storm warning is announced, take early precautions by unplugging your appliances and technological devices. Meanwhile, using surge protectors in your electrical outlets can help your home avoid damage, as well.
? The shock waves produced by massive strikes can lead to structural or foundational problems. A shock wave can fracture brickwork, stone masonry and concrete, leaving a major impact on your home’s structural supports. Once the storm has passed, inspect your home and call professionals should you find any cracks in your walls or foundation.

While witnessing the power of Mother Nature in Asheville, NC can be awe-inspiring, the potential for a massive storm to cause a lightning fire is a considerable threat. Learning about the dangers and preventing hazards can be crucial to getting back to normal after an immense weather event. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on fire damage. 

Mold Cleaning and Remediation: Best Practices To Follow

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in a residential property.

If you discover black mold or any other sort of fungus in your building, don’t assume that you know the right thing to do. Chances are that some of the DIY mold cleanup procedures you’ve been told to use are wrong, and they could put you and your building’s occupants at risk. There are three sets of mold standards professional adhere to that you should know about:

• EPA standards
• OSHA standards
• IICRC standards

EPA and OSHA Standards for Mold Cleanup

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration have their own approaches to handling mold that they suggest building owners and Asheville, NC mold remediation experts adhere to:

• Building owners should not attempt to clean up spaces larger than 10 square feet on their own.
• Because an HVAC system can easily become contaminated with mold, the ductwork and units should be inspected and cleaned thoroughly.
• If flooding was caused by a sewage backup or if the water is otherwise contaminated, it should be cleaned up by a professional only.
• If you are concerned about how the water or mold may affect your health, contact a professional.

IICRC Mold Standards

When it comes to mold remediation efforts, the team you hire should adhere to IICRC’s standards. Those standards differ from EPA and OSHA’s in a few ways. The greatest difference in methods is the way in which these organizations test for mold. The IICRC rejects the EPA’s method for detecting mold, which involves a visual assessment. Instead, it utilizes the “Indoor Fungal Ecology” test, following the three Cs:

• Condition
• Class
• Category

A remediation expert who adheres to this methodology should look for conditions conducive to mold growth, quantify the water damage and categorize the type of water as either clean water, gray water or black water. By following these three steps, a professional should be able to effectively remediate the problem.

Every mold remediation expert adheres to different mold standards. The important thing is to ensure that the professional you hire follows guidelines appropriate to your situation. Ask about a company’s approach before making the final hire.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on mold.

3 Reasons Your Commercial Toilet Keeps Flushing

4/21/2018 (Permalink)

A malfunctioning toilet in your Asheville, NC commercial building can cause a variety of issues, from repeated toilet overflow to increased monthly water bills. One common issue that commercial toilets suffer from is repeated flushing, when water runs into the unit without stopping. There might be several reasons for this problem, and knowing what they are may help you remedy the problem quickly.

1. Dirty Gasket

The gasket within a commercial toilet’s flushing apparatus can become caked with sediment over time. This can be especially common if you live in an area with hard water. Sediment may also affect the gasket’s weep hole and how well the gasket’s suction works. You can remove and clean the gasket and weep hole, which may resolve the continuous flushing.

2. Broken Flapper

Sometimes the flapper, or seal, on the inside of the toilet may become brittle or old. When this happens, the seal can become misaligned and cause the toilet to fill constantly. This constant filling may eventually cause a toilet overflow or a toilet flood, which can cause water damage to your building and require the services of a flood remediation and water cleanup company. The seal is located inside the flush canister, and if it is cracked, you may need to have it replaced.

3. Leaking Toilet Tank

A leaking toilet tank may cause repeated flushing, as the unit will sense it needs to fill due to a water loss. However, you can stop a toilet from leaking with a simple test. Add three drops of red food coloring into the water of the tank and wait about twenty minutes. If the water in the toilet bowl is red when you check it again, this means the toilet tank has a leak and you will need to have it repaired.

A malfunctioning toilet in your Asheville, NC commercial building can cause a toilet overflow and water damage to your floors. Knowing why this might occur and how to resolve the problem can help you prevent costly repairs. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on commercial water damage. 

File a Flood Damage Claim in 4 Steps

4/16/2018 (Permalink)

Even though you may be overwhelmed by the aftermath of flooding in Asheville, NC you shouldn't hesitate to file a flood claim to cover damage to your home. Make sure that you keep the name of your insurer and policy number on hand during the disaster and are aware of the extent of your coverage.

1. Notify your insurer as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the flood, it may take insurance companies some time to process claims. It is a good idea to start the insurance claim process, document damage, and take the first steps toward limiting the extent of secondary damage by starting cleanup and remediation as soon as you can.

2. Document all flood damage. Take photographs of all damaged property, structural damage, and standing water. You should also make a complete list of damaged and lost items that includes dates of purchase, values, and any receipts you can find. Once you have documented the damage for your flood claim, you may dispose of affected and ruined items so that they do not pose a mold hazard.

3. Talk to an adjuster about your claim. An adjuster will contact you after you file your claim to discuss the damage and your coverage and help you prepare a sworn statement of the amount of damages you are claiming accompanied by supporting documentation.

4. File Proof of Loss within 60 days. File Proof of Loss documentation with your insurance companies within two months of a flood. The National Flood Insurance Program and insurance companies can only make payments once Proof of Loss is on file.

Maintain a reliable method of contact such as a cell phone number or email address so that an adjuster can contact you regarding the status of your flood claim. Depending on the extent of damage to your home, you may also want to contact a residential damage restoration service.

Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on storm damage. 

What Causes a Home To Have Noisy Pipes?

3/25/2018 (Permalink)

You may be used to all the sounds your Asheville, NC home makes each day. You probably know which steps creak and what it sounds like when the house settles in the winter. However, when your home's water pipes start making new or unusual noises, this may indicate that one is about to suffer a pipe break. Since this can cause considerable flood damage, knowing why your pipes are making noise may help you prevent this issue.

Pipe Sediment

Over time, sediment can build up in your home's water pipes that might narrow the path the water flows through. This can be especially common in areas that have a high percentage of lime or calcium in their water. As the pipes narrow, this can cause a whistling sound whenever the water spigots are turned on. Replacing these affected sections may prevent you from having to fix a broken pipe later, when the water can no longer flow through it.

Loose Pipe Straps

If your home's pipes bang or clang when a sink or appliance is turned off, this may mean that the metal pipe straps that secure them to the wall are loose or failing. Since rattling can cause a pipe burst, this is a problem that should be remedied right away. Check interior and exterior pipes, inspect the straps, and replace any that are worn or broken to prevent an eventual pipe break.

Water Heater Needs Servicing

You may sometimes hear a rumbling or crackling sound coming up through your home's pipes. However, this sound is probably emanating from a water heater that has sediment buildup. Over time, sediment can form in the tank and trap some of the water, which boils and causes the strange sounds. You can call in a qualified restoration company to flush out and clean the tank so that it runs quieter and with increased efficiency.

Your Asheville, NC home's water pipes probably make a variety of sounds you may be used to. However, some of these sounds could indicate an inevitable pipe break, and having them checked out may prevent a costly and damaging flood. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on water damage. 

The Benefits of a Professional Mold Inspection

3/25/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage at this Fairview home was discovered when a bathroom tile found coming off of the wall.

If your home has the telltale musty odor of mold, you may be tempted to take matters into your own hands and conduct mold testing yourself with a take-home kit. Do these kits accurately assess the state of mold in your home, though? Experts in Asheville, NC who have been trained and certified are more likely to make an accurate assessment during their mold inspection.

Mold Is Everywhere

Every home has mold. There are many places spores are present:

• Indoor air
• Outdoor air
• Furniture upholstery
• Wooden surfaces
• Window treatments
• Other surfaces

All your DIY mold test kit is going to tell you is that your home contains mold, which is already a given. If you suspect you have a serious mold problem, an environmental hygienist should be hired to conduct mold testing and pinpoint the problem.

Inspection Is Key

The detection of mold is only a small part of the certified hygienist’s job. What a mold kit cannot do is provide the visual inspection, which is the most vital part of getting to the root of the problem. These tests can be interpreted many ways. When professionals in Asheville, NC test for mold, they use the information they get from the test as a starting point to arrive at their ultimate diagnosis. The discovery of the condensation, poor ventilation, a cracked foundation, water damage or inferior drainage systems they find gives them more useful information than the test will show.

If you are worried enough about whether you have a mold problem to attempt your own mold testing, you are worried enough to call a professional environmental hygienist. Taking care of your mold issues in a safe and timely manner is too important not to enlist the help of someone who can make an accurate assessment that far surpasses the results you will get from a mold kit. The inspector can then advise you on the next steps you need to take to remedy the problem. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on mold. 

How To Deal With Mold Until a Professional Can Remove It

2/21/2018 (Permalink)

In just 24 hours, mold can develop within your commercial building in Asheville, NC. You need to address this right away before black mold starts to grow, which is much more dangerous. You should leave mold cleanup to the professionals, but it may take a couple hours for someone to come out. In the meantime, there are steps you can take to prevent the mold from escalating further.

1. Shut Off the Building’s HVAC System

You may see mold on drywall and assume it is localized. However, that patch actually releases various spores into the atmosphere, and they can spread to various parts of the building through the air conditioning system. However, it is still good to air out the affected room, and you can open up windows to promote circulation. Additionally, you can also bring fans into the room to promote adequate airflow.

2. Keep People Out of the Room

Whether there is black mold in the basement or a bathroom, you want to put up caution signs informing people to stay out until a professional comes. It is dangerous to be in a room with a significant moisture problem, and you do not want to put your employees in harm’s way.

3. Do Not Apply Bleach to the Mold

You may think you will be helping the mold cleanup crew by applying bleach to the affected area beforehand. For starters, bleach is not as effective at removing mold as most people think. In fact, there are some circumstances where bleach will actually exacerbate the problem. Bleach is also toxic, and you need to be wary of breathing in any fumes.

The best thing you can do when there is black mold in your building is to stay out of its way until a professional crew comes around. Mold is considered an emergency, so you probably will not have to wait long. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on mold.

Tips for Clearing Away Smoke and Soot Damage

2/14/2018 (Permalink)

One of the hardest parts about dealing with the aftermath of a fire is the impending cleanup process. After all, smoke damage and soot damage can be highly unsafe, not to mention unhealthy, for anyone near it to be around for very long. Here are some useful tips to start the smoke cleaning process in a commercial setting in Weaverville, NC and ways with which you should protect yourself from the harmful effects of fire damage.

*Simple, mild detergent or everyday household soap can wash soot and grime off the walls. Mixed with water or small amounts of bleach or other cleaners, the soapy solution you create can be effective in cleaning the walls, wooden flooring and non-upholstered furniture with ease. Working in small sections at a time is ideal for efficiency, and any cleaned areas should be rinsed with water immediately, before they dry, to prevent more issues later.

*Smoke odor can be canceled out by cleaning products with TSP (tri-sodium phosphate). Smoke damage doesn’t just visibly leave its mark; it can leave an unbearable, lasting odor as well. Thankfully, cleaning solutions with TSP can diminish the smoky odor in any fabric furnishings or decor. Only a few tablespoons mixed with a cup of bleach for every gallon of warm water creates the right formula to rid a space of obtrusive smells.

*Toss any food items or beverages that were in the range of soot, smoke or debris. Dishes and silverware can be washed and polished, but any edible products should simply be discarded to prevent illnesses that can arise from eating contaminated food or drinking dirty liquids.

Keep these helpful suggestions in mind when it comes to clearing away smoke damage, soot damage and any other potentially hazardous remains due to an uncontrollable blaze. Most importantly, starting up the smoke cleaning process is the first step to getting back to normal life after such a devastating ordeal.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on commercial fire damage.

Fight Back Against Flood Season

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

If you’re on the edge of a flood in your Asheville, NC home, it’s important to be well-prepared. Flood water can result in expensive damage to your property and contents. While you might not be able to stop the storm and may need a specialist’s help to clean up after, you can follow a variety of steps to fight against the flood in advance.

1. Content Storage

If you have a second story, take your valuables and store them up there. If not, you can always store your valuables on tables or shelves. The point is to get them to a higher level where they may remain untouched by water damage from a flooded building. Using closeable plastic bins can also help. Even if water manages to get through, they are easier to deal with after getting wet, as opposed to wet cardboard.

2. Valve Check

Make sure you check the backwater valve before the storm. If it isn’t in working order, then you could end up dealing with the sewer backing up into your home. Water contaminated by sewage can be more toxic and damaging. If you have the chance, check your valve in advance.

3. Vehicle Relocation

Vehicles can be damaged by flood water. If you can get your cars to higher ground, you may be able to protect them from any damage. From mold problems to engine issues, there are several problems that occur when there is a flood. Once flooding starts, you may not be able to get your car out right away, so take care of it in advance.

After a flood, there is a high chance that there will be damage done. At least there are ways you can lessen the damage from flood water. You can do this by making sure your contents are stored safely, that your valves are in working order and that your vehicles are safely stored.

Visit SERVPRO of Asheville East at http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com/ for more information about storm restoration.

Don’t Panic Over Burst Pipes

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

As winter comes in full force, burst pipes will become a reality for some homeowners. To wake up in the morning to a flood of water is a nightmare, to say the least. No matter how big or small the flood is, keep in mind that a little water can do a lot of damage in a short amount of time. If you’re unlucky enough to be hit with water damage from a broken pipe, don’t fret, these three tips will help you through it.

1. Calmly Assess Damages

As with any emergency situation, the key is to stay calm. Stress can make it difficult to make informed decisions or recognize the reality of the damages caused by the flood. First, look for the most visible signs of water damage on walls, rugs and furniture. If anything is saturated, bring in a restoration specialist to ease your mind and start damage control.

2. Utilize Fresh Air

To dry out your home and protect against further water damage, you should air out your residence entirely. Open the windows and run a fan to get the air flowing through your residence. Additionally, you may use a dehumidifier to push the process forward.

3. Clean Mold and Mildew

After the water cleanup, mold and mildew have to be eradicated. Detergents and bleach may be appropriate for the cleanup. You can scrub nonporous furniture and objects free of mold. However, for nonporous contents, they may need to be tossed out.

Water damage due to broken pipes is common. When it happens, however, you don’t have to go into a panic over what to do next. It’s important to stay calm to be able to appropriately assess all the damage done to your Asheville, NC home. Once the damage has been fully gauged, you can begin the process to dry everything and address mold and mildew.

Visit SERVPRO of Asheville East at http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com/ for more information about water restoration.

5 Reasons for Toilet Overflow

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

A toilet overflow and sewer damage in a commercial building in Asheville, NC, is everything else but fun. It gets even worse if it’s a recurring problem that you have no explanation for. If you have a flooded toilet, it’s best to reach out to a sewage company that specializes in commercial restoration soonest so your business can get back to normal. Here are five situations that can cause a toilet to overflow.

1. Clogged Drain Line

This is probably the most common reason for toilet overflow, and it is oftentimes associated with the line that connects the toilet to the main exterior line. However, it’s also possible that other lines are responsible for this. That’s why it’s recommended to have an expert assess the situation.

2. Sewer Issue

A flooded toilet can also be related to the sewer lines. It’s not unheard of that lines that run from the building to the main sewer line get clogged with foreign materials and objects. Even tree roots can block or damage pipes.

3. Septic Issues

Is your commercial property on a septic system? In this case, the tank can be full or unable to absorb any more water, which can lead to sewer damage.

4. Low-Flow Toilet

Chances are your toilets see a lot of usage and they might not be able to handle what they are being asked to do. Especially older low-flow toilets are known to be troublesome as they are not as strong and durable as their modern counterparts. You might not be able to control what type of non-flushable items or the amount of toilet paper people are trying to flush.

5. Blocked Trap

The trap between the base or bowl of the toilet and the drain pipe can get clogged up with foreign objects and even too much toilet paper. This can cause a water backup.

These are some of the most common reasons for toilet overflow. A sewage company can find the issue and clean up the sewer damage in your commercial building.

Visit SERVPRO of Asheville East at http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com/ for more information about commercial restoration.

Don’t Let Mold Drive You Out of Your Home

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Don’t Let Mold Drive You Out of Your Home

As the primary cause of residential mold growth in Asheville, NC unanticipated water incursions may have a variety of sources. Mold needs this kind of moisture to thrive, and it can spread throughout an entire home in under 48 hours. With these facts in mind, mold prevention is the key to stopping its destructive tendencies when unexpected water damage occurs.

Where Does Mold Come From?

Major flooding can wreak havoc on both the interior and exterior of your house. Building materials and household items such as carpet, rugs, walls and furniture retain moisture even after the water has been cleared from your property. However, significant natural disasters aren’t the only way that this organism can find its way into your home. Several other smaller events can result in dangerous mold growth:

Leaky pipes
Seepage through walls or roofs
Excessively damp indoor air

Mold needs three things to encourage its growth: abundant moisture, food sources and a hospitable surface to host it. Water damage sets the stage, but organic substances, including cellulose-based materials such as wood, cardboard, paper facing on drywall and even wallpaper, serve as ideal nourishment for this type of fungus.

What Kind of Destruction Can Mold Cause?

Mold digests organic material, then spreads both in search of food and to reproduce new colonies. Common impacts include an unpleasant “earthy” aroma, discoloration to affected areas and eventually weakening of structural integrity.

What Mold Prevention Steps Can I Take?

A quick response is vital if you wish to preserve the condition of your home after leaks, climate control malfunctions, flooding or other potential sources of water damage. Your first step should be to immediately contact a water removal and restoration company in Asheville, NC. Meanwhile, shut off your home’s HVAC system and fans, avoid affected indoor areas, and do not attempt any cleanup or removal on your own. These tips not only preserve your health and safety but leave the way clear for the pros to do their job and get you back into your home. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on mold.

The Right Way To Use a Fire Extinguisher

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

The Right Way To Use a Fire Extinguisher

One of the most important safety lessons anyone in Asheville, NC can learn is how to properly utilize a fire extinguisher. In the event of a manageable emergency, such as a small kitchen fire, an individual can often take quick action. It’s crucial to correctly activate, aim and discharge an extinguisher in order to achieve the greatest benefit, and to prevent potential fire damage from becoming worse.

Take These First Steps

First, always ensure the safety of people or animals in the event of a fire. Evacuate the building and contact the fire department, even if you’re attempting to extinguish flames on your own. Only attempt to employ a fire extinguisher for a small, non-spreading blaze, and always ensure there’s an exit available at your back in case you need to escape quickly. Do not remain in any room where there’s a large amount of smoke.

Remember To ‘PASS’

There are four main steps to follow when using fire extinguishers, and the acronym “PASS” can make them easier to remember:

PULL: Remove the pin at the top of the extinguisher and break the safety seal to activate it.
AIM: Point the extinguisher’s hose or nozzle low, toward the fire’s base.
SQUEEZE: Firmly squeeze the handle to propel the contents from the extinguisher.
SWEEP: Spray from side to side in a sweeping motion, attacking the base of the fire until it is fully extinguished.

Keep in mind that smoldering embers and other unseen heat sources are capable of reigniting flames. Repeat steps 2, 3 and 4 if this should occur.

Helpful Reminders

A typical fire extinguisher will be exhausted in fewer than 10 seconds; if the fire’s not out by then, you must evacuate the building. Never attempt to battle flames in the interest of preserving property. Professional fire recovery technicians in Asheville, NC can always assist in salvaging and repairing fire damage following a kitchen fire or other home disaster. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on fire damage.

Sewage Backup After Heavy Rains

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Sewage Backup After Heavy Rains

Heavy raining and other storms in Asheville, NC can wreak havoc on your business. Most people know about the damage that strong wind, flooding, and lightning can cause during these storms. However, many people are surprised to learn that sewer backup is a significant concern as well.

When your area floods, your business is at risk at having sewage come up the pipes. Of course, sewage in your commercial building is terrible for business. That’s why it’s important to understand what causes this damage and what to do about it when it happens to you.

What Causes Sewage Backup During Rain

When rain water comes down heavily and saturates the ground, it can cause a city’s sewage system to overload. Since most municipal sewage systems are aging and damaged to some degree, this can cause waste to come back up the pipes and into homes and businesses. A few other factors contribute to sewer backup:

• No sewer backflow prevention device in the building
• Combined storm and sewage pipelines
• Damage from tree roots
• A blockage in the city’s sanitary main

Any combination of these factors can lead to what is known as “black water,” or sewage, spilling into your business.

How to Prevent It

You can help prevent black water from entering your business. However, there are no guarantees. With heavy enough rains, backup is still possible. You can take these steps in your building to mitigate that risk:

• Install a prevention valve
• Replace plumbing with plastic pipes that trees can’t damage
• Repair any damaged lines

These solutions involve costly and time-consuming repairs. However, you can also help prevent backup by keeping your pipes as clean as possible. Be sure to dispose of grease and paper products properly.

What to Do

If sewer backup affects your business after heavy rains, be sure to call a professional cleanup crew in Asheville, NC. While you could try to clean it yourself, an expert crew is better equipped to disinfect your business correctly.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on water damage.

Tips When Choosing a Commercial Fire Damage Company

10/23/2017 (Permalink)

Tips When Choosing a Commercial Fire Damage Company

Fire damage on commercial properties is devastating to both the business owner and the customers. What are the traits to look for in a commercial fire damage restoration company? If you are not sure about the qualities to check for, consider using the following tips to get a fire restoration company for restoration of your business.

1. Quick Response

Currently, the fire damage management industry has many providers claiming to be professionals. The saturation makes it hard to find the perfect fire restoration company and qualified firefighter in the time of need. Going through the work description and comments from past clients is the easiest way to know whether the providers respond on time to utility room fire. A reliable outlet should have readily available resources like fire sprinkler system, fire hose, and fire truck to handle problems like the electrical fire to prevent commercial fire damage on assets. They ought to have working phone numbers for ease of access.

2. Equipment

After setting up your commercial building, it is advisable to search for fire damage professionals. Pay a visit to various facilities to check on the tools like a fire hose of a fire suppression company. Examine the nature of their fire truck, fire hose, staffs, and horse pipes. They use the fire sprinkler system for mitigating soot damage, smoke damage, and smoke smell. Make sure that all supporting tools are in good shape and can keep off fire instantly. The workers must be familiar with fire sprinkler system, fire hose, fire truck, and managing an electrical fire. The fire remediation entity should possess the latest and efficient equipment to deal with utility room fire, smoke smell, soot damage, and smoke damage.

3. Specialty

Find out the area of specialization of the fire suppression company you wish to hire. Concentrate on entities that serve commercial facilities as they have the required resources for factories and office fire. Fire cleanups do not stop after the company puts out the fire with related extinguishers, fire sprinkler system or water. You should consider handling methods used to manage soot damage, utility room fire, and smoke damage. The providers must be a professional firefighter in handling fragile commodities and electrical fire.

4. Experience

The duration a fire restoration firm has been in practice, and the kind of projects they have completed determine their experience. Find out the specific skills a fire restoration entity has in remediating fire aftermath in businesses. During the period they have been in existence, the workers have participated in managing commercial fire damage, electrical fire and soot damage in various offices and manufacturing firms. They must have insurance covers, licenses, and certificates.

5. Right Team

Consider planning for a meeting with the potential teams to find out if they are the right people for commercial fire damage. Qualified fire suppression experts have specialized equipment for smoke damage and soot damage. They should have operational phone numbers and a fire truck to respond to clients throughout the day and night. The team has a positive reputation in the market.

6. Service Cost

Request for quotes from three firefighter firms and pick one with the best offer. Identify the fixed charges that you must incur once you call the fire suppression company. The price charged depends on the nature of fire and distance from their facility. They look at the labor amount, the extent of damage, and repair work needed when fixing their rates. Discuss the likely fire damage in a commercial facility when getting the quotes.

Rapid response to commercial fire damage is essential. Avoid shutting the business for long to protect its future. Talk to an experienced and certified fire restoration entity that responds immediately to solve all damage types and financial losses.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on commercial fire damage.

Benefits Of Hiring A Fire Restoration Company

10/23/2017 (Permalink)

Benefits Of Hiring A Fire Restoration Company

Are you dealing with a fire in home or fire in business situation? Wondering what you need to do to get the situation under control and restore your property? Dealing with a home or commercial fire damage can be difficult and needs to be handled by fire damage professionals.

A fire in home or fire in business incident can happen without warning. From smoke smell to soot damage and smoke damage, a fire in home or fire in business situation can be very difficult to deal with. If a residential or commercial fire damage is not cleaned up immediately, smoke smell, soot damage and smoke damage can cause serious issues, resulting in additional damage to the structure and valuables in your business or home. When fire in home or fire in business occurs, it is imperative to call restoration company professionals.

Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Fire cleanup technicians will identify the full extent of fire damage to the property and its contents, both obvious and unseen. Trained technicians use use sensors such as hygrometers and moisture detectors. And, these professionals help you overcome your feeling of helplessness by taking the time to explain the fire cleanup process in a way that you can understand the situation you're dealing with, what to expect, and what steps they plan to take to restore the property to good condition.

Immediate Board Up and Roof Tarp

Board up and roof tarp are absolutely essential during a restoration project. Fire in home or fire in business can often compromise roofs, walls, and windows. Once the restoration process begins, residential and commercial fire damage technicians take precautions to prevent additional damage.

To maintain security and to provide protection against further damage, technicians can board up walls and windows and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Remove Residue And Smoky Odors

It is extremely important to eliminate smoke smell, and repair any damage to the structure of the residential or commercial building. Professionals from a restoration company will take appropriate steps to remove smoke damage, soot damage and smoke smell.

Residential or commercial fire damage technicians will use their high-tech equipment and advanced technology to achieve satisfactory results during the process of fire restoration. These professionals will remove the source of smoke smell, clean any valuables that can be salvaged, eliminate any lingering odor with professional strength deodorizers and odor counteractant. Finally, the residential or commercial fire damage professionals will seal salvageable to prevent additional recontamination.

Restoration

This is the final step in the process - getting your business or residential property to its pre-fire state. This phase usually involve doing minor repairs to the property, including replacing drywall, installing new carpet, and painting. Sometimes, this may involve major repair projects such as reconstruction.

Peace Of Mind

Expert fire cleanup or fire damage restoration is a great way to ensure the job is done correctly. Professional service gives you the peace of mind you need after a fire in your residence or business. When performed properly, professional service can remove smoke smell, soot damage and any sign of fire damage to the property. Experienced fire damage restoration technicians can handle the fire cleanup effectively, including soot damage and smoke damage.

Considerations

Fires can result in severe damage to your business or home. After the fire trucks leave, there is a huge amount of work to be done. Your property will likely suffer fire and smoke damage, as well as tremendous flooding and water damage from firefighting efforts.

It is crucial to hire residential or business fire damage restoration technicians to board up and handle fire damage restoration. It is also very important to understand that any successful fire in business or fire in home project goes beyond just cleaning up the smoke damage or soot damage. Restoration after a fire damage must be handled properly by a reliable restoration company to ensure a successful outcome.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on fire damage.

The Process of Professional Storm Damage Restoration

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

The Process of Professional Storm Damage Restoration

As human activities continue to interfere with the natural stability of ecosystems, natural disasters continue to affect people. The impacts of natural disasters can be catastrophic since they lead to many losses. Natural disasters such as storms may cause flooding, hurricane damage, tornadoes, river flooding, snowstorms, and ice damming or ice damage from ice dams. Storm damage leaves you with different types of damages including water damages due to flooding, structure damages, roof leak, and roof damage. When you want to restore your home after a wind damage, it is important for you to seek services from companies that provide professional storm remediation. A flood pump will ensure ground water is pumped out quickly since frozen pipes will not allow water out.

Below are the steps that you could follow suffering a storm damage to ensure that you reduce the losses that result from flooding:
i. Emergency contact. The first step in professional storm restoration is contacting your water restoration company to inform them of the damages and levels of ground water due to flood water. Most storm restoration companies provide services on a 24/7 basis and you will be able to contact them anytime. If there is roof damage due to roof leak and require immediate roof repair, you should inform the storm restoration company.

ii. Focus on your health and safety first. Storm disasters come with water damages and it is necessary to ensure that you switch off all power sources in your home or business. It is also important to note that storm remediation process begins immediately your water restoration company personnel arrives on the site. The level of river flooding, wind damage, flood water, ice damming, hail damage, ice damage, and river flooding in your property will determine the number of frozen pipes. Restoration should begin immediately after the storm or after the water levels have gone down. You should also use a flood pump to get rid of the flood water and ground water that may be the source of water damage to your property. Block broken water pipes to limit water inflow and minor roof leaks fixed.

iii. Documentation of storm damage: Documentation of all damages be it storm damage, water damage, wind damage, hurricane damage, ice damage from ice dams, hail damage, and roof damage is necessary, as they will help you in filling insurance claims. In there is ground water that has found its way into your house, use flood pump to get rid of it. This should be carried out as soon as you are able to access your property safely and you can do it through taking photographs and recording videos. Ice damming resulting from ice dams lead to frozen pipes that affects the water supply.

iv. Contact your insurance company. You should also make sure that you contact your insurance agent to allow him or her conduct any required inspection on your damaged property. Contacting your insurance company should be made as quick as possible to initiate the compensation process.

v. Consider looking into Federal Disaster Assistance: The federal government always seeks to help victims of wind damage and river flooding afford proper storm remediation. If you live in an area that has been declared as a disaster area, you can seek low-cost loans that may be provided by the federal government to facilitate home restoration services of your home such as repairs for a minor roof leak, management of water damage, wind damage, hurricane damage, hail damage, and roof damage

vi. The home restoration process involves restoring your home to its initial state. It will involve window and door replacement, furniture and content replacement, home restoration of electric and water supplies, and debris removal. Hail damages require a water restoration expert to help you carry out proper roof repairs where necessary. Frozen dams and frozen pipes caused by ice damming from ice dams should be heated up to restore the normal supply of water. Water restoration processes also involve the use of dehumidifiers to get rid of moisture and water suckers to pump water out. Roof repair will also be necessary to fix minor roof leaks.

To reduce the damages of flooding, flood water should be pumped first through the use of a flood pump. Other types of damages such as wind damage, water damage, hurricane damage, hail damage, ice damage, and roof damage could be mitigated through roof repair and other forms of storm remediation. The urgency through which the home restoration company shall respond to your emergency call and the steps they will take toward storm restoration will determine the success of the storm remediation.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on storm damage.

What to Consider When Looking for Water Damage Restoration Services

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

What to Consider When Looking for Water Damage Restoration Services

Water in home or water in business is nowadays a common occurrence. The majority of these situations are caused by things that can be prevented while a number of them are natural calamity such as storms. Regardless of the cause of a flooded home, it is imperative for the owner to take immediate steps towards restoration. Flood damage is critical because it could cause more loss of property and derail business operations.

If you have a flooded home, the most important thing is to take immediate actions to ensure that this situation is brought under control immediately. However, many homeowners do not know what they could do instead they panic and take actions that deteriorate the situation or cause more damages.

What are the causes a flooded home or business?
There are different causes of water in home or water in business. Some of the most common causes include toilet overflows, supply line break, water pipe break, faulty plumbing system and other natural incidences such as storms. Whatever leads to an influx of water in your home or business premises, the most important thing is to ensure that a water cleanup is done to prevent water damage.

Excessive water can cause damages to your wooden floor, destroy your belongings and furniture among many other. This costly damage caused by supply line break or pipe break could create a hazardous environment. You need to treat the situation as an emergency because further delay would lead to advanced flood damage.

When faced with this kind of situation in your home or business, it is imperative that you contact a local damage restoration company. Water in home or water in business can be restored by professionals. A flooded home would undergo clean up and subsequent restoration or mitigation.

It is essential that homeowners have emergency contacts to be able to call a professional water damage restoration company in the event of a flooded home. You never know when water in home situation could occur; hence, you ought to be ready. The supply line break or the pipe break is some of the things that have to be restored immediately.

The advantages of using a professional restoration company

Immediate response: The water in home or water in business is a situation that requires an immediate response because of the danger it poses to the property. Hiring professionals, you can be assured that they would come to your aid immediately. They would first repair the pipe break or supply line break. The main aim is to minimize the loss hence they could also provide you with some guidance on what to do before their arrival.

Effective inspection: The first thing before the process for water damage restoration and mitigation begins is to create a plan. It indicates that professionals have defined steps that would make sure that the situation is brought under control. The assessment process involves the determination of the most effective approach to the situation. They also do documentation of the damages, which you can also use to file for insurance claims.

Expert water cleanup and drying process: A good restoration company would have all the necessary equipment to begin the extraction process. They use modern techniques to remove all the water damage, moisture and debris. The wet belongings are taken to a safe custody for drying.

The experts are knowledgeable on the best water cleanup methods using the modern equipment that include moisture detection cameras among other which enable effective and efficient restoration. After the removal of moisture, the drying process begins immediately after disinfection and sanitization. The drying process is achieved through tools such as the dehumidifier. The importance of ensuring sufficient drying is to prevent fungal growth.

Professionals are equipped with skills, tools, and knowledge: The flood damage mitigation and restoration is done using state of the art equipment. This process usually begins within 48 hours. The mitigation process ensures thorough water cleanup, repair of pipe break or supply line break among other. Flood damage can have cost implication in home or business if not taken care quickly.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on water damage.

Tips To Prevent Water Damage Before Professionals Arrive

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

Tips To Prevent Water Damage Before Professionals Arrive

In every instance of water damage, restoration professionals should be called to the scene to inspect the damage, perform mitigation, and undertake restoration. Whether the source is from a pipe break, supply line break, or flooded home, restoration professionals are the people with the knowledge and equipment to minimize damage. What do you do before restoration experts arrive, though? If you have water in your home or water in your business, there is going to be a period of time that elapses before mitigation by professionals can begin. During this time, you can do a few things to help prepare a home or business for a restoration company to take over.

Things you can do before the restoration company arrives

If you have a flooded home, chances are you're not just going to want to sit around with water on all of your things. There are a few things you can do while waiting for the restoration company to get on the scene that will help minimize water damage and prep the area for the restoration company. In fact, the water cleanup can begin with those few moments you spend waiting for the professionals. Here are just a few things to do after you've experienced flood damage:

- Mop or blot the surrounding area in your home or business
- Turning on air conditioning is going to help begin drying
- Delicate items that haven't succumbed to water in the home or water in the business can be removed to a safe place
- Picking up anything from the floor that hasn't gotten wet yet can help

These few little things can help some of your items escape water damage. While it doesn't seem like much, this small water cleanup can really help professionals minimize flood damage in a flooded home.

Turning it over to mitigation professionals

If you've done these few things when there's water in your home or water in your business, then you've done the most you could to protect your items from water damage. You've moved some items out of harm's way and began the drying process, however ineffective it might be if you left it at that and called no one. Water cleanup started with these few things.

Now professionals will enter your flooded home and assess the cause of the damage. They will check to see if it was natural flooding, a supply line break, a pipe break, or a leaking appliance. While the air conditioner did a bit of driving, professional mitigation experts will have industrial dryers and water movers that will finish the water cleanup efficiently. Drying with these large industrial dryers is often the only way to ensure a complete and thorough mitigation process. Without professional drying, the flood damage will permanently ruin many of your precious items in your home or business.

Don't make the mistake that so many people make and do absolutely nothing during a crisis such as this. If there is water in a home or water in a business, you aren't completely helpless to do anything. Flood damage can be minimized by prepping the area for a professional to arrive. In the case of a supply line break or a pipe break, you might want to wait for professionals. After all, a supply line break or a pipe break isn't going to be immediately visible. This means a professional will have to assess the reason for the water flooding into the home. In those cases, you're fine to wait for professionals to arrive.

In other cases where you stand by and helplessly watch water flooding onto your personal belongings, you CAN do at least something while you wait for professionals to arrive. By doing those few little prepping actions, you're going to make it much easier for professionals to do a more thorough and faster cleanup later on, saving many of your valuable things.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on water damage.

Tips to Mitigate Residential or Commercial Fire Damage

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

Tips to Mitigate Residential or Commercial Fire Damage

If you have experienced a fire in home or fire in business, you need to take a truly proactive stance to mitigate associated fire damage. There are some tips to bear in mind when it comes to mitigating residential or commercial fire damage.

Engage a Professional Restoration Company

The most important step that you must take in order to appropriate mitigate fire damage is to promptly engage the services of a professional restoration company. The stark reality is that only a professional restoration company is capable of providing the comprehensive range of services needed following a fire in home or fire in businesses. This includes tending to the full spectrum of matters that must be addressed after a residential or commercial fire, including board up and fire cleanup. You must engage a professional service that directly addressed fire damage issues that include smoke damage, soot damage, and smoke smell.

Obtain Professional Fire Damage Restoration Assistance Immediately

Another tip to bear in mind when faced with residential or commercial fire damage is the need to obtain professional fire damage restoration assistance immediately. You actually can cause further damage if you try to deal with fire damage remediation on your own. In addition, residential and commercial fire damage can become aggravated if professional intervention is not sought immediately in the aftermath of a fire in home or fire in business.

For example, board up work needs to be undertaken at a residence of business directly after a fire. Board up protects and secures the premises. In addition, facilitating a proper board up of the premises prevents unnecessary further deterioration following a fire in house or fire in business.

Engage a Restoration Company that Provides Comprehensive Services

One useful tip to bear in mind when it comes to remediating fire damage is to utilize a firm that provides comprehensive services. You ensure efficient, affordable remediation when you engage a restoration company that provides everything from initial fire cleanup to services designed to address smoke damage, soot damage, and smoke smell.

When it comes to fire cleanup, you need to make sure a company has the capacity to immediately and rapidly deal with water. A common type of fire-related damage is caused by water used to put out the fire. A fire damage restoration company must have the skillset necessary to address water damage during the initial fire cleanup process.

On a related note, the equipment utilized to a company to address issues like smoke damage, soot damage, and smoke smell also needs to be top of the line. A tip to ensure quality fire cleanup and restoration from a firm depends on the equipment it utilizes in regard to smoke damage, soot damage, and smoke smell.

Fire Mitigation Specialists at a Fire Damage Restoration Company

Another tip associated with retaining the services of the best possible fire mitigation company is to thoroughly check the credentials of the specialists that will be assigned to work on your case. First of all, you definitely to ensure that you engage a company with specialists who have a broad background in fire in home or fire in business mitigation and restoration services.

You also need to make certain that specialists contemplated for your residence or business are all properly licensed, bonded, and insured. You need to select a company that mitigates residential or commercial fire damage that is committed to ensuring that all of its specialists are appropriately screened and subject to thorough background checks.

Price Comparisons are Important

Once you identify a fire mitigation firm that provides comprehensive services, you need to compare pricing. There can be significant differences in the fees charged by fire mitigation and restoration firms, even for the same services. Time is of the essence when it comes to engaging a fire mitigation and restoration firm. Nonetheless, you must take a reasonable amount of time to compare pricing between these restoration companies.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on fire damage.

The Proper Way to Handle Mold Issues

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

The Proper Way to Handle Mold Issues

Mold damage occurs because of moisture, humidity, and heat. Mold growth is common following water damage such as a flood, but it’s not uncommon to find mold damage behind walls after a leak inside the walls or even a slow leak from an exterior pipe. The issue with mold damage and mold growth is it’s not always visible to home and business owner. This means mold in the home can grow for months before anyone is wiser, and commercial mold damage might go unnoticed for months. Even if the issue isn’t black mold, mold growth is dangerous.

There might be some signs people notice before they realize mold damage is a problem. Dry rot, a smelly odor, the frequent use of deodorization, and even the presence of fungus and mildew in bathrooms and basements. Another problem is many signs of mold in the home and commercial mold damage are ignored when signs like mildew and fungus are present in bathrooms and basements. Too many homeowners and business owners assume it’s natural to find mildew and/or fungus in these rooms, but it’s anything but normal.

Identifying Potential Mold in the Home and/or Commercial Mold Damage

Home and business owners looking to see if there is any mold damage in their home or in their business might miss the signs if they’re not familiar with them. Aside from dry rot, smelly odor, additional deodorization techniques not working well, and even mildew and fungus, there are many signs. Mold removal might be necessary when any of these issues are found.

Professional remediation and mitigation are always the best option when commercial mold damage or mold in the home is located. One of the most common signs of mold growth behind walls is the presence of dry rot. While dry rot doesn’t always indicate mold growth behind the walls, it’s a sign there is or was water damage or moisture in the home at some point.

A smelly odor is another big sign of mold growth. This smelly odor typically has a musty scent to it. Home and business owners might use deodorization to get rid of it before realizing it’s not entirely effective. It’s the use of professional deodorization with professional equipment a restoration company offers that gets rid of this smelly odor permanently.

Another common issue people face is the assumption that mold isn’t a problem if it’s not black mold. It’s not just black mold home and business owners must take seriously. All mold is problematic. All mold has the potential to cause serious damage to a home or business, and it must be handled accordingly.

Handling Mold Damage Accordingly

Remediation, mitigation, and mold removal services with the help of a professional restoration company are all requirements when mold is located anywhere. A restoration company has the correct equipment to properly handle mold removal, to dry damp areas, and to prevent mold from occurring again. Mitigation and remediation aren’t an option, but there are a few things home and business owners can do while waiting on a restoration company to appear.

Everyone can perform their own small form of mitigation and remediation while waiting for professional help. Without damaging any of the mold or attempting mold removal of the DIY variety to prevent the further spread of mold spores, home and business owners can begin removing water completely. They can shut down the air or heat to prevent mold spores from being distributed throughout the home faster and more efficiently, and they can leave the mold alone.

DIY mold removal is never a good idea. It’s only going to make the situation worse. Mold growth behind the walls could be black mold, but the truth is all mold growth behind the walls, visible in any room, or anywhere else requires the professionalism of a restoration company. Hiring professionals is the only option to prevent further mold growth and damage. Call the pros to help with the removal of mold and to prevent more expensive damage later.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on mold.

Remediating A Potential Water Damage Situation

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

Remediating A Potential Water Damage Situation

Water damage is one of the most insidious forms of damage that a property can endure. All too often, water damage is not immediately recognized as the serious threat to the property that it is. Left untreated, even small amounts of water damage can quickly lead to rot, mold formation and even structural compromise. In severe cases, water damage can lead to the property becoming uninhabitable, leading to condemnation and total loss of the property's value.

Luckily, there are effective ways to deal with flood damage. The important thing to know is that even if a supply line break or pipe break seems small and containable, it is absolutely imperative that a professional restoration company be called in to perform a restoration. If started soon enough, flood damage restoration and mitigation are almost always successful. However, even a delay of 24 hours can cause the chances of permanent damage to the flooded home to begin skyrocketing.

In this article, we'll look at a rough outline of the process of restoration of flood damage and mitigation of its effects. We'll see that, should a professional restoration company be called in a timely manner, almost all cases of flood damage will result in a successful restoration of the home or business to its prior state.

A professional restoration company is the only entity that can effectively handle a flooding event. It is crucial that the first thing a property owner does, upon discovering flood water in a home or water in a business, is to get a team of water cleanup professionals on site, as soon as possible.

Once the emergency call has been made, detailing the flooding event, the water cleanup team will arrive. This will usually take place within minutes. Once on-site, the water cleanup team will immediately enter the premises and begin mitigation efforts. One of the first things they do is locate the site of the orginal supply line break or pipe break, cutting of any active leaks. If the supply line break or pipe break proves difficult to close off, by conventional means, the team may use welding equipment to effect an emergency cutoff of the water flow.

The team will then inspect the property, noting the severity and extent of the water in the home or water in the business. They will formulate a damage mitigation plan.

Next, the team will begin pumping out all of the water in the home or water in the business, using heavy-duty pumping equipment and specialized vacuums. They will be able to pump out up to 2,000 gallons of the water in the home or water in the business. The complete extraction of all water will be completed within one hour.

At this point, the flooded home or business will have no standing water and may appear to be more or less dry. But there will still be water soaked into the property's materials.

The team will next begin the drying process. Using large, industrial-strength drying equipment and powerful dehumidifiers, the drying equipment will be able to remove thousands of pounds of moisture from the property's atmosphere and materials each hour. The drying process is generally the longest step in the restoration of the flooded home or business. It may take between a few hours and a whole day.

Now the property will appear like new. But it still needs to be cleansed and sanitized. The area around the original pipe break or supply line break will be thoroughly cleansed and sanitized, in order to prevent mold and mildew growth. All of the homes items will be cleaned, preventing the formation of unpleasant odors.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on water damage.

The 'Don'ts' of Fire Damage Restoration

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

The 'Don'ts' of Fire Damage Restoration

If you've experienced a fire in home or fire in business, there's many steps you can take to restore the building and regain normalcy after such a catastrophic event. There's also a few steps that you can take that cause more worry and frustration to an already stressful situation, and even prolong fire cleanup efforts. Avoid such a scenario, and ensure that you leave most of the fire damage restoration to the professionals.

A restoration company has properly certified and trained fire damage restoration experts at your building who make fire cleanup a breeze, whether it is a fire in business or at your home. They have the proper tools and equipment to safely restore your property without the added worry and headache. Ensure that you find a great restoration company as quickly as possible so you can begin the fire cleanup process. At the same time, avoid the following situations to minimize the burdens after a fire in home or commercial fire damage.

Don't Salvage Food

Food costs a lot of money, and tossing it out is the last thing you want to do. Under normal circumstances, it'd be easy to maintain your foods, but after fire damage, nothing is safe. Soot damage, smoke smell, and smoke damage can contaminate foods, and usually considerably change the taste. Don't preserve any food that was inside the home during the fire. It is far too risky to your well-being.

Don't Go Inside

Although fire department officials may have extinguished the flames, the building may still be unsafe. It is possible for a fire to reignite, and the smoke may linger for days, leaving an undeniably, unpleasant smoke smell in its path. The smoke smell is easily removed with a deodorizer when the restoration company comes in for fire damage restoration. Smoke damage left behind on furniture, pictures, clothing, etc. is also a concern. Don't let smoke damage worry you! Soot damage is also of concern after a fire. This fine dusting of powder contains many toxins that cause health concerns, including an increased risk of heart problems. Soot damage is left behind on furniture, clothing, appliances, and even the floor. When you stay away, these dangers are invalid.

Don't Send Clothing to the Dry Cleaners

It is important that clothing is washed after fire damage, but these items shouldn't be taken to a regular dry cleaner. When soot damage, smoke damage, and the smoke smell are inside your clothing, a fire damage cleaning expert is needed to completely remove the danger from the clothing.

Don't Forget Board Up

Board up of windows and doors is important after a fire in home or fire in business. Board up minimizes dangers and keeps people from entering the building. It is dangerous to re-enter a building after commercial fire damage or a fire in home. Board up is offered from the restoration company and minimizes these risks. Whether you've experienced a fire in business or a fire in home, using this service is highly recommended.

Don't use Electrical Appliances/Items

If you've salvaged a few electronics from the home or business after commercial fire damage, do not use them until a certified repair company first evaluating them for safety. A fire can damage TVs, computers, ranges, refrigerators, printers, and an assortment of additional appliances and electronics, yet show no damage. Always allow the professionals a chance to okay the use of any items caught in the fire.

Don't Panic

After commercial fire damage or a fire in home, you're left with many emotions and likely wonder what the future holds after such devastation has occurred. It is easy to panic and lose focus, but this is the worst thing that you can do. As the fire damage restoration pros work on fire cleanup and getting the building back-to normal, you should be making calls to the insurance agency, choosing new paints and colors for the building, and planning other details of restoration.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on fire damage.

The Problems with Mold and Mildew

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

The Problems with Mold and Mildew

A professional restoration company is necessary for mold removal. People will try to tell you that you can remove mold yourself. This is not true or advisable. If you disturb the mold without following the proper procedures that only a restoration company is capable of because they have the necessary training, solutions and equipment, you will spread mold spores into your home. Mold growth can occur within as little as 48 hours after a home is flooded or otherwise experiences excessive moisture. To avoid mold growth, water must be immediately and thoroughly removed.

Mold in Home

It might be common to see mold in the home, but mold in the home presents too many issues for it to be ignored. It cannot be cleaned with bleach or scraped away. Without professional mitigation, mold and mildew will continue to increase and cause serious adverse effects in the house.Contact a restoration company as soon as possible. Besides mold in the home, commercial mold damage is also a concern.

Commercial Mold Damage

Commercial mold damage has serious impacts as well. Numerous employees working under one roof with mold can constantly feel ill. With weakened immune systems, viruses are more likely to infect people, causing multiple sick days. Commercial mold damage needs to be dealt with immediately.

Dry Rot

Dry rot involves wood that has been deteriorated from a type of fungus. Dry rot affects the structural integrity of a home because the solid structure and strength of wood has been compromised. Dry rot causes wood to crumble. It can spread in a home that has excessive moisture, which can be caused by floods, the aftermath of fires, inadequate vapor barrier protection, leaks, inadequate air ventilation and excessive use of humidifiers. Fungus mitigation should be sought immediately to preserve the home's structure. It can stun people to think that they would need water mitigation after a fire, but this is one major cause for water damage and mold damage.

Black Mold

Black mold is a concern, but this is the case for any type of mold. Some black mold is toxic, but other types of mold are toxic as well. If you notice black mold or any other type of mold in your home, contact a restoration company immediately to do an inspection.

Mold Growth Behind the Walls

Once mold begins to grow in a home, it can spread to the entire home quickly. Sadly, mold growth can also occur behind walls. Mold growth behind walls can be a real concern because mold continues to grow despite being hidden. In the case of toxic black mold, you could become increasingly ill without even knowing the cause behind it. It is common to have mold growth behind walls when pipes leak. Exterior walls of a home that share piping with an outside source are subject to freezing. When pipes freeze, pipes burst and leak at a later point.

The Problem with Water Damage

Mold damage most often occurs in porous surfaces, which is why mold damage occurs after a home incurs water damage. Water damage causes mold damage because water distorts surfaces, which creates the perfect atmosphere for mold to grow in the home. Mold damage occurs rather quickly.

Deodorization

One giveaway for mold growth behind the walls is a musty, smelly odor. However, it's important to note that not all mold produces a smelly odor. You might be tempted to use deodorization methods to combat your smelly odor, but until mold and mildew are effectively removed, deodorization will not work, and your home will suffer from smelly odors. Deodorization does not work because the mold is still alive and continuing to grow.

Fungus Mitigation and Remediation

Fungus and mildew mitigation are necessary in a home. Mildew is also a health concern. Remediation is the process of stopping or reversing damage. Mold removal is a form of remediation. Only a professional remediation company can adequately help you with your mold issue. Mold removal is a must. Without mold removal, a home will continue to grow more mold because mold spores fly throughout the air searching for other places to grow. Mold growth will continue until you contact a professional mold remediation company.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on mold.

What to Expect From Water Mitigation

6/29/2017 (Permalink)

What to Expect From Water Mitigation

The sight of standing water in home or business properties can cause you to feel stressed and panicked. Water in business and residential properties requires professional restoration and mitigation service if you want the issue dealt with promptly and in a way that protects property value. However, your flood damage or other type of water damage likely developed out of the blue, and you may have not had the water cleanup and drying out process in your plans this week. With a greater understanding about what you can expect from the restoration and water cleanup process, you can better prepare yourself for the days ahead.

The Initial Response

Regardless of whether you have flood damage from a major storm or another type of water damage in your property, you should immediately contact a water cleanup crew to assist you. The water mitigation team that you choose to use for this service should have 24-hour availability and should be able to respond quickly. Remember that you may be able to stop some of the water in business or residential properties from increasing while you wait for help to arrive. With flood damage, it is not usually possible for the property owner to prevent more water from entering the space. However, if your water damage is caused by a plumbing leak, you can turn off the property’s main water supply valve. This is just one example of how property owners can respond to the issue of water in business or residential properties in a positive manner.

Drying Out the Water in Home or Business Properties Quickly

As soon as your water restoration and mitigation team arrives, they will immediately take steps to begin drying out the property. Drying the water must be completed promptly if you want to reduce the chance of mold growing in the space. Therefore, your water cleanup crew will usually use extraction equipment designed specifically for this purpose to remove the water from the property. Water in home or business properties is not the only damaging force that you may contend with. Moisture in the air can also cause mold to grow, and it may create a musty odor in your space. Therefore, the drying out process should also include the use of a dehumidifier. The remaining steps in the flood damage or water damage cleanup process can begin as soon as all moisture has been removed from the surfaces and the air in the property.

The Remainder of the Restoration Process

After the water in home or business properties has been removed, you may notice signs of damage throughout the affected area. This may include water stains on tile, drywall or carpeting. Wood surfaces may be warped, and drywall may be deteriorating. These are only a few of the primary types of damage that you may notice after the water cleanup step has been completed, and the restoration team will remove the damaged areas as needed. These surfaces will be replaced with quality materials. In some cases, such as when dealing with stains and musty odors, the surfaces may be professionally cleaned. After the mitigation team has completed the work in your home or business property, your property will be fully restored. All signs of the water issue will be removed.

If you have water in home, you may not be able to live comfortably in the space until the repair work has been completed. When you have water in business properties, you may not be able to conduct your money-making operations. You understandably need the water cleanup and mitigation process completed as soon as possible. There is no time to waste when dealing with any type of water damage, and this is because the risk of mold growth is great. Now is the time to set up restoration work for your property if you are dealing with flood or water damage today. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on water damage.

How to Cleanup and Repair your Home After Fire Damage

6/29/2017 (Permalink)

How to Cleanup and Repair your Home After Fire Damage

When home burns, the fire damage is not the only risk. Smoke, soot, and the water utilized to snuff out the fire will harm the carpet, walls, clothes, furniture, and upholstery. It is crucial to snuff out the fire as soon as possible to prevent additional damage to your home or business. After a short time, the fire damage can cause the building to become unsalvageable. The procedure of restoring a house after commercial fire damage must not be a Do-It-Yourself-task. Fire damage restoration companies can assist you to carry out the task in the best way possible. However, you have to seal the workspaces to prevent the pollutants from recirculating to other rooms.Fire cleanup can help to reduce the soot damage and the smoke smell.

Fire damage restoration

After the commercial fire damage, the painted walls end up being yellow, and a house that appears habitable can still be a risky abode. During the fire damage restoration, start by eliminating the charred locations and repair the walls with mortar. Cleaning up your home will take various phases, given that you may need to eliminate many layers of soot. You require some citrus disinfectants to eliminate the odor as well. Be sure to open windows for ventilation and utilize an electrical fan to eliminate the fumes. Lots of do-it-yourself enthusiasts battle to cover the smoke damage with coats of paint. However, smoke damage repair entails removing the affected layers and filling them up with concrete. Before you begin the project, make a list of all products that you need to replace and ask an expert to inspect the house and salvage as many items as possible. The fire cleanup process involves eliminating the smoke smell, dealing with soot damage, and identifying the effects of fire in home furniture and flooring.

Mitigate the damage

Fire damage can ruin your house and make it a health hazard, especially in the wake of commercial fire damage. Smoke damage and fire in home can leave residues and pollutants, although the damage might not be noticeable. The fire damage restoration might involve eliminating the water as well. If you utilized water to extinguish the fire, toxic substances such as mold or mildew might start to grow. The water might also escalate the structural damage if you do not remove it immediately. The fire in business premises can cause extensive soot damage, smoke smell, and other negative effects that require a comprehensive fire cleanup.

Hire a specialist

After contacting an insurer, work with a home renovation contractor to fix the damage. A specialist can reduce the cost, save time, and keep your household safe when handling fire damage. The fire restoration technicians are trained to deal with all kinds of fire and water damage catastrophes. The initial step includes blowing off or vacuuming the loose smoke particles from the upholstery, drapes, and carpets. The fire in business premises can be harder to tackle compared to the fire in home furniture and walling if you have some expensive equipment in the office.

Tidying up

The best method to tidy up after the commercial fire damage is to utilize a sponge, cleaning detergents, and water. Avoid undertaking this project if you do not have the expertise to deal with the fire in business premises. A structural inspection is vital to avoid the possibility of crumbling beams and columns that might cause some injuries. Since the fire and smoke damages are really difficult to handle, they must be managed by specialists. The fire in business buildings can cause soot damage and call for costly fire cleanup operations. While cleaning up a smoke-damaged space looks like a basic procedure, it involves brushing the surfaces, vacuuming the various, and repairing the charred surfaces. Washing the surface areas with warm water is the most efficient technique for eliminating the smoke smell. Wash the external stucco walls with a garden hosepipe to remove the topmost layers prior to scrubbing. In case of a fire in home or office, a specialist can prevent the damage.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on fire damage.

How To Deal With Mold Damage In Your Home

6/29/2017 (Permalink)

How To Deal With Mold Damage In Your Home

Mold flourishes in damp, warm environments. Eliminating mold might appear simple, and in many cases, it might be a basic procedure. However, if the mold damage is extensive, you might require the services of a mold remediation consultant. It can be hard to find mold if it is growing in the hidden areas. Mold has a musty smell that can cause irritations and respiratory problems. Some people suffer from mild allergic reactions while others develop some serious health complications. Mold remediation and mitigation are instrumental when it comes to alleviating this problem.

Cleaning up

You cannot succeed in the mold removal process without undertaking a thorough cleanup. The secret to dealing with the mold damage is to tidy up and remove the mold immediately to stop it from spreading out and becoming harder to eliminate. Tidy your heating system during mold removal since the HVAC device can distribute the spores in the house. Run your vacuum cleaner over the areas where mold has begun to develop. Instead of covering the furnishings with polyethene and tape, remove them from the house while undertaking this operation. Routine cleansing can also keep the mold away from the kitchen, bathroom, and shower. Instead of exposing those near you to the mold spores, the specialists have the necessary devices and abilities to remove the mold in home finishes and prevent such infestations in the future. Before you start using the pressure washer to address the mold damage, wear the appropriate clothing and seal the zone with a protective covering to contain the spores in the working area. If you see the signs of commercial mold damage on the drywall, floors, or ceiling, you need to hire a mold removal specialist to stop the problem. Besides the mold remediation process, mitigation is critical when it comes to preventing the commercial mold damage in the future. While dealing with the commercial mold damage, look out for the fungus and mildew that have a smelly odor that might call for deodorization.

Ventilation

A good ventilation system is the key to mold removal. If your ventilation system is circulating the air, the mold and mildew cells will not flourish in your home. If the mold damage has started to affect the plaster or wood surfaces, you might have to remove the top layer and refurbish it with a material of your choice. Tiles are appropriate since they do not absorb water. Since the tiles are easy to clean, eliminating the mold on a tiled surface is quite easy. A direct exposure to mold over a prolonged amount of time can initiate a series of allergic reaction. Avoid living in the musty conditions, and if the damage is extensive, you need to relocate as the specialists deal with the infestation. Use your HVAC system to air-dry your house. Reducing the humidity levels can also help in combating the problem. Air-conditioning and ducts can often conceal mold, and it is important to have your ductwork checked. If mildew and mold develop on the wooden surfaces, air and heat can solve the problem. Increasing the airflow and the temperatures can keep the indoor environment fresh and dry and eliminate the mold in home drywalls. A constant who handles both the remediation and mitigation can work to your advantage. Without deodorization, you cannot get rid of the smelly odor that comes from the fungus and mildew and mold in home surfaces.

While bleach can exterminate the mold easily, it will not permeate the porous surfaces. Sodium bicarbonate and vinegar are instrumental when it comes to eliminating various types of mold. The commercial mold damage consultants should not use the corrosive chemicals during the mold remediation and mitigation to prevent ruining the finishes of your home. The fungus and mildew have a smelly odor that you cannot eliminate by deodorization. The deodorization of the fungus and mildew will not eliminate the smelly odor.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on mold damage.

Brief Overview of the Water Damage Restoration Process

5/19/2017 (Permalink)

Brief Overview of the Water Damage Restoration Process

Water remains one of the most dangerous substances inside an indoor environment due to its destructive nature. Excess water in home or water in business causes property and structures to deteriorate rapidly. Water damage in the home or commercial property could be as a result of burst pipes, excess rain leading to floods or accidental spills inside the property.

Immediately after water spills or enters a property as a result of floods or burst pipes, the water cleanup process ought to commence immediately. This process should start after the rising water levels are noted as a mitigation measure from the losses caused by flood damage. Here are some important water damage restoration tips that can help in case of floods or accidental spills.

First Steps

Immediately after water floods inside an office or home, the first thing that ought to be done is the removal of excess water from the property through mopping and blotting. Water on the wood furniture should be wiped dry after removing all tabletop items and lamps. The wet cushions and upholstery should be removed and propped to dry. Colored rugs ought to be kept away from the wet carpets. All art objects and wood panelling ought to be removed from the walls and kept in a safe and dry place to allow the wall adequate time to dry. Aluminum foils or wooden blocks should be placed between the wet carpeting and furniture legs as a mitigation measure from the continued exposure to water or moisture. The air conditioning ought to be left on to hasten the drying process as well as ensure that the house is well ventilated.

Loss Assessment

Evaluating the loss associated with flooding inside a property is usually the first and most important stride in the process of water damage restoration. It should be done accurately in order to come up with the appropriate plan of restoring the property back to its prime condition. The process of assessing the loss incurred and categorizing it involves the input of both the insurance company and the flood damage control experts. The team identifies the source of the damage, document it and come up with accurate estimates necessary for restoring the property.

Afterwards the categorization process follows and it is determined by the water contamination levels. Category 1 encompasses water coming from sources such as sinks, pipes or toilets as long as it is not mixed with waste. Category 2 includes water bearing contaminants from a washing machine, dishwasher or toilet. Category 3 encompasses contaminated water that can cause death or illnesses from sewages, toilets, flood waters or stagnant water with microbial growth.

Decontamination and Drying

After the assessment and categorization process is complete, the next phase involves drying and decontaminating the property. Decontamination and drying forms an important stage in the water damage restoration process. The professionals involved in this stage use a number of equipment like dehumidifiers, blowers, subfloor freshening equipment and scrubbers to ensure that the water in home or water in business is completely dried out. The decontamination process is carried out in areas that contamination is detected or on the entire property.

Observation and Completion

Observation of the water cleanup exercise and mitigation of the flood damage is a critical step towards achieving the desired results. The monitoring process involves checking whether the drying equipment is properly set and ensuring that the personnel involved in the water cleanup exercise are well qualified. Adequate mitigation steps ought to be taken when any issue crops up during the monitoring process to ensure the complete eradication of water in business or water in home. The whole water damage restoration process is considered complete when the temperature, humidity and moisture content return to the requisite standards.

Conclusion

All the above stages are important in the water cleanup exercise meant to mitigate the losses brought about by flood damage. This process calls for prompt mitigation measures to be taken immediately floods occur. This is the only sure way of eradicating the excess water in home or water in business. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on water damage.

Fire Damage Restoration

5/19/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration

When there has been fire damage in a home or in business, it is important to consider enlisting the services of a fire damage restoration contractor as quickly as possible. The process involved in getting rid of the soot damage, smoke damage, smoke smell and general fire cleanup, which is neither easy nor simple. This is even more challenging if commercial fire damage occurred.

Fast action is important for smoke damage, soot damage, or fire damage restoration to be effective even if the property owner is traumatized. Following a fire damage, smoke and soot settles on surfaces and creates additional damage to the contents' structures. So if restoration doesn't start from day one, the property is at a risk of greater damage.

Fire damage restoration timeline

The timeline of fire damage mitigation process will help to understand why time is essential in fire cleanup.

The first few minutes – immediate soot residue causes discoloration among appliances plastics and porous materials such as marble and alabaster.
The first few hours – the simple discoloration turns into deeper stains. The stains affect counter tops, appliance finishes, bathroom grouts, furniture finishes, and more.
The first few days – stains and discoloration on appliances, walls, etc. start to become permanent. The floor and furniture finishing becomes totally damaged and it has to be redone or replaced altogether.

It's now clear that one cannot afford to wait when a fire in the home or fire in the business has occurred. Restoration must begin the same day after the fire is put out.

Manual Restoration Process

In case one cannot reach out to the professionals immediately because of unavoidable circumstances, there following steps can be followed:

Protection – every person must the protected. This means wearing thick clothes and gloves, at a minimum. The oxygen tank should be used to avoid inhaling harmful chemicals, especially after commercial fire damage.

Ventilation – ventilate the property by opening doors and windows after commercial fire damage. Consider turning on some fans to accelerate the ventilation process.

Fire cleanup – everything, including ceilings windows, doors, fixtures, floors, walls, etc. needs to be cleaned to get rid of the soot damage and smoke damage. Below are some helpful tips:

High-efficiency vacuum cleaners must be used to remove soot damage on the carpeting and upholstery.
Dry clean fine clothes. The regular clothes can be cleaned using the washer but, a mild alkaline detergent must be employed.
Pressure wash/spray exterior paint, brick, wood, etc. beginning from top to bottom. Detergent must be utilized.

Odor removal – to get rid of the horrible smoke smell, one needs more than ventilation. Using disinfectant sprays, deodorizing sprays, aerosol sprays, etc. helps, but temporarily.

Professional Restoration Process

That initial guide was just a fire damage restoration start point. If a fire in the home or fire in the business occurs, one inevitably needs the services offered by a restoration company. Discussed below is a simple outline of the many things they do to restore properties after fire in a home or fire in a business, also referred to as commercial fire damage.

Inspection – specialists carefully inspect the entire property, pinpointing every trace of the fire damage. They then offer a quote and a timeline for the job.

Cleaning – once one has hired experts after a fire in the home or fire in the business, the professionals will use their advanced equipment for the fire cleanup process.

Treatment – experts also use the ozone technology to remove all the smoke smell presently.

Restoration – items that require more stringent method are packed and moved to a facility where they can be professionally deodorized and cleaned.

The restoration process is time-consuming and fairly complex. It can take several weeks for the property owner to complete the work by themselves. Remember the smoke damage and smoke smell worsens as the days go by. Property owners are highly advised to hire experts to get the restoration done efficiently and correctly. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on fire damage.

Home Tips for a Moldy House

5/19/2017 (Permalink)

Home Tips for a Moldy House

Having a healthy home is almost everyone’s dream, and there is nothing more irritating than mold. The fungus grows in damp areas like drainage systems and re-cleaning it all the time can be a tiresome job. The mold damage caused in households is an eyesore, and the smelly odor can be hard to put up with. There are many ways to achieve mold removal and here are some useful tips.

It is important to find a professional mold remediation service to deal with mold in home. Various companies can help you to get rid of mold in home. However, most people prefer to try home remedies. If you have an allergy to fungus or cannot stand the smelly odor, however, it's advisable to ask an expert to help you with the mitigation. When dealing with commercial mold damage, experts may use deodorization to help them work without choking on the smelly odor.

Keeping materials dry in the house is also a safe method of mitigation. The fungus thrives in areas with high moisture content. You can reduce moisture by fixing leaky joints and ensuring your clothes are completely dry before folding them.

The air scrubbing equipment is synonymous with riding the mildew fungus but before buying one, confirm that it is HEPA approved as those are the kind that can eliminate even the source particles. Mildew grows in most bathrooms, and it is important to air the room out.

Neglected areas can also accumulate fungus especially in areas large enough to cause commercial mold damage. This kind of mold is smelly implying that it will be easy to know its source. In most cases, mold may grow under carpets, ceiling boards, and cushions. The first step in remediation of this level of mold damage will be to open up every available avenue of ventilation. Then, get rid of the moldy surface. After this, wrap it up in plastic for cleaning or getting rid off. Then scrub away the surface mold. Vacuum the surface thoroughly then leave uncovered for the moisture to completely dry off before returning the carpet or cushion on it.

If the problem is on the walls, a mildewcide paint works greatly in mitigation of mold damage. If you live in an area that is prone to moisture or you have the problem of managing moisture, the paint is a must have. On areas where the paint cannot work, like on tile borders, one will need to try other forms of remediation like buying mildew cleaner or frequently using detergent for scrubbing the areas as a mold removal method.

Apart from bringing salads to life, vinegar also has the power to kill mold and could be used in deodorization. This is because, t does not leave an after-smell of itself or the mold when used in mitigation of mold damage. The fact that it is a mild acid is enough to suppress the growth of mildew from the cleaned out area for some time. For these reasons, vinegar wash is a great mitigation technique.

Another safe method of mold removal is using baking powder. The baking agent has many hacks under its name, and mold remediation is one of them. Water and baking soda solution sprayed on the surface then scrubbing is an effective remedy for mold in home areas.

Serious cases of mold in a home can lead to losses that can reduce the value of the house or increase the cost of home insurance policies. While deodorization can help mask the smelly odor, people can easily tell if the room is moldy.

Hydrogen Peroxide is a great mold removal agent that could be used to combat commercial mold damage. It is an antifungal agent that kills the fungus down to its spores. What's more, Hydrogen Peroxide is versatile and can be used anywhere in the house. From the kitchen to the bathrooms, there is no limit to where it can be used.

When carrying out mold remediation, it is important to be adequately prepared and protected. Subsequently, do not engage in any form of mold removal while bare-handed or without wearing protective eyewear. Undertake deodorization when dealing with commercial mold damage. The spores are a hazard to many people.
Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on mold removal.

Find Your Best Company For A Water Cleanup

4/24/2017 (Permalink)

Find Your Best Company For A Water Cleanup

Because of life's unfortunate events, many individuals have experienced the ravages of water damage. It is a little known fact that any area in the world can become flooded. When flood damage occurs, it can completely destroy materials that are found in those buildings. After flood damage, it is wise to begin mitigation. Most of us are not qualified to handle the problems that come with water in home or water in business. There are many steps to consider when a building has flood damage. In order to perform a water cleanup, things such as drying and water damage restoration are required.

After a home or business has experienced water damage, it is very important to begin the water damage restoration process. Mitigation is the best process to begin when it comes to water cleanup, drying water in home or water in business, air movement, and water damage restoration. As soon as a home or business has experienced flood damage, they must immediately get in contact with a company that can do a deep water cleanup.

What To Expect From A Water Damage Restoration Company

After an individual or family has gone through water in home or water in business, it is imperative for them to get in contact with a professional to begin mitigation. Even if water damage is minimal, there are a lot of other small destructive issues that may occur if air movement and drying do not commence in a timely fashion. A buildup of water can cause mold to grow in places where a family may not even think about, so the entire affected area needs to get a good amount of air movement with the help of professional equipment. That mold could cause serious health risks to individuals in a family or business. A professional company that is accustomed to dealing with water in the home and water in business can do a thorough clean up.

The first thing that needs to happen is for a company to come out and do a site inspection. Since all water damage is different, the company has to evaluate the best way to carry out the mitigation. After a company has figured out the steps that they have to take to remove water from home, they will take care of the job from beginning to end. These professional companies know exactly what they need to do in order to start the drying process, create air movement in the home, and finish the water damage restoration.

Many savvy individuals have made the choice to get flood insurance, and if that is the case, a trusted company that deals with water in home and water in business will take the needed steps to get in contact with the insurance adjuster. This is a company that is dedicated to completely restoring the home, and they do all that they can to work quickly in order for their clients to be able to get back to their everyday life.

There is really only so much that an individual can do to avoid natural disasters, but it is good to know that there are simple steps that can be taken in order to get water cleanup done in a way that is safe, efficient, and speedy. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevillewest.com for more information on water damage and cleanup.

Water Damage Restoration For The Home

4/24/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration For The Home

Water restoration is quite important for the house as it must be done by a water cleanup crew that is expert in the field. They must be prepared to help the homeowner when there has been flood damage or water damage in the house, and they must be called as soon as possible for any water in home or water in business problem. This article explains how water damage restoration and the mitigation process will be completed. There are many people who have no idea how to complete drying or air movement in the house, and it is will be quite apparent that the home may return to its former glory.

#1: How Much Water Is There?

Water damage and flood damage may be quite bad as it will fill up the house with water that is so difficult to remove. The water cleanup crew will begin their work by ensuring that they have planned for the water damage restoration process, and they must ask for an air movement plan that will get all the water out. There are several different people who need drying to begin in the house before anything else may be done, and they will notice the smell in the house changing.

#2: Water In Home Issues

Water in home is something that must be corrected quickly, and it must be removed before the house is made ready for living again. The family cannot be allowed to sit in a house that is filled with water and musty smell, and they may ask the mitigation team how long it will be before they may get back in the house. There is a general plan that will be used for all water in home problems, and the family may prepare to return when the time is right.

#3: Water In Business

Water in business problems are no different, and they are managed in a similar manner. The water in business problems are managed by a mitigation company that arrives with all the proper water damage restoration tools, and they will vacuum the house before they begin rebuilding anything that was torn down.

#4: Different Types Of Water Damage

Flood damage and water damage in the house may be repaired by a water cleanup crew, and the family will learn about drying as it goes on. Each new technique for drying or air movement will take care of a different part of the house, and the family will avoid all the terrible things that traditionally happen when they have a flooded house.

Flood damage may be repaired with water damage restoration, and there is a way to help make the house feel much better to live in. The damp feeling of the house will go away, and the water cleanup company will do all mitigation and air movement until they believe the house cannot be repaired anymore. Call the company in an emergency, and they will arrive with all the people they need to complete the job. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on water damage.

Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment Restoration Crew

4/24/2017 (Permalink)

Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment Restoration Crew

When your home or business has suffered significant fire damage, getting the local fire cleanup and smoke damage restoration at the location in a timely manner can make all the difference. These fire in home or fire in business professionals can transform even the more dire fire loss to back what the location looked like before the fire. Here is how the local fire cleanup crew can make short work of giving you back piece of mind and your property after fire damage.

Once you reach out to the fire in home or fire in business experts, they will arrive in a timely manner to perform a fire loss assessment. This part of the fire cleanup process allows the fire in home or fire in business professionals to inspect the soot damage and further test adjoining rooms to determine the extent of the all the fire damage, smoke damage, and soot damage. This is a very important step in the fire loss cleanup process to helping the fire in home or fire in business team to developing a plan of action.

Now that the fire in home or fire in business experts have analyzed the air quality risks, they will begin boarding up any locations that pose a serious security risk. They will board up windows, doors, and tarp the roof. When it comes to commercial fire damage, the amount of work in this process could be further complicated due to the large amount of equipment on the property that didn't sustain fire damage. The commercial fire damage team will secure the premises and maintain security to protect further damage or theft. If the commercial fire damage team finds issues that they can not address, they have inroads to fire cleanup contractors that can work on air quality too.

The next part of the fire cleanup process is water removal that was used to prevent fire loss. The more fire loss that was prevented, the more water could be on the property. The fire in home or fire in business team will locate all the water and utilize high-power vacuums and drying machines in a timely manner. The air quality experts remove the majority of the water and then will use dehumidifiers or air movers to completely remove all of the remaining water while completing the drying process.

After the fire in home or fire in business team have successfully removed all the water and dried all property, the smoke damage and soot damage removal process begins. In order to improve the air quality in the home or business, the soot damage and smoke damage from the fire damage has to properly be removed by the fire loss experts. These commercial fire damage professionals use specialized equipment and techniques that remove smoke damage and soot damage from ceilings, floors, walls, doors, and other fire damage surfaces.

As it pertains to commercial fire damage, the cleaning and sanitizing process is extremely important because customers and employees will both be on the property. The commercial fire damage experts will clean all restorable items or structures that sustained fire damage and improve air quality. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on fire damage.

Strategies for Obtaining Skilled, Effective Fire Damage Restoration Services

4/24/2017 (Permalink)

Strategies for Obtaining Skilled, Effective Fire Damage Restoration Services

After a fire in home or a fire in business, fire damage comes in many forms. Soot damage, smoke damage, issues surrounding air quality, represent examples of the types of issues that must be addressed after a fire in home or a fire in business.

There are a number of considerations that a person must bear in mind when it comes to fire clean up and remediation. These considerations apply to the aftermath of a fire in home or fire in business.

Rapid Fire Cleanup and Reclamation Response is Crucial

When it comes to fire loss, including dealing with smoke damage, soot damage, and air quality issues, rapid response and intervention by professionals is crucial. A home or business owner facing the needs for fire cleanup and restoration needs prompt professional assistance.

The first step in obtaining professional assistance in regard to fire cleanup and restoration, an initial consideration is how quickly a service provider can be on the scene and at work. There are fire cleanup and restoration service that can be at the site of a fire in home or fire in business directly after an event. These providers can be at work in the fire cleanup and restoration process immediately.

The Costs of Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration

Another preliminary consideration when it comes to fire damage cleanup and restoration is cost. A home or business owner certainly wants obtain effective fire loss cleanup and restoration assistance. However, a home or business owner does not want to pay more than is necessary for fire damage cleaning and restoration services.

A reliable, reputable fire damage and restoration service will provide a specific estimate. This includes a company that provides commercial fire damage remediation. Indeed, many fire damage restoration services will guarantee their quotes.

Addressing Air Quality is Important

Historically, not enough attention has been paid to the issue of restoring air quality after a fire in home or a fire in business. The start reality is that a residential or commercial fire can result in long-term impairment of air quality.

When seeking the professional assistance of a fire loss remediation service, a home or business owner must determine the experience of a service provider in dealing with air quality issues. In addition, a home or business owner needs to review what technology and equipment a service provider utilizes to deal with air quality issues following a fire.

Fire Loss and Smoke Damage and Soot Damage

Dealing with smoke damage and soot damage can be highly challenging. Smoke damage and soot damage impacts not only the premises following a fire, but also personal property contained at the home or business. Smoke damage and soot damage demands experienced fire loss remediation experts to ensure that these issues effectively are addressed.

The Special Needs Following Commercial Fire Damage

Commercial fire damage has additional requirements when it comes to cleanup and remediation or restoration. For example, commercial fire damage must be dealt with efficiently to lessen the amount of time a business is closed or restricted following a fire. In order to get a business back in operation, commercial fire damage remediation must start immediately and continue apace. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on fire damage.

What to Know About Mold Remediation and Removal

4/24/2017 (Permalink)

What to Know About Mold Remediation and Removal

A mold is a fungus that grows in the form of a multicellular strand structures called hyphae. There can cause hazards and food spoilage. They are generally larger than other types of fungi species. The difference between other forms of microbial growth organisms is that molds are larger, complex and grow to be very long.


Examples of molds include:


Dry rot
Fungus serpula
Lacrymans
Mildew

In the environment, there is always a multicellular organism somewhere, either in the air or on various surfaces. This mold grows where there is a wet surface. They being microorganisms have the ability to grow and form a population of organisms; often referred to as a microbial growth. Such a microbial growth entails a rapid and simple process of binary fission. The microbial growth of fungus requires temperatures of 200 -300C and Optimum pH 6.0 and below.


Microbial growth takes place best with correct atmospheric pressure. Acidity levels limit most microbial growth organisms.


When you notice the presence of this menace in your house/home, it is imperative that you do some serious mold cleanup. You need to get rid of this organism as soon as you can. The most common type of fungus is mildew. During mold cleanup, it is usually hard to distinguish between dirty surfaces from mildew. A simple drop of household bleach and a water solution can do the trick. Mildew usually begins as a single spot, often black in color, but usually grows into a big colony. Mildew does not cause rotting of your property unlike the other types of microorganisms.

Here are some guidelines that are necessary before and during your mold cleanup:

Wear the right type of clothes, which can be disposed of because the organisms can stick on the clothing.
Wear goggles so as prevent fungal molds from getting in contact with your eyes.
Keep the room ventilated as you work. This will provide you with proper air circulation. Make sure the windows are widely opened.
Wrap and tape the garments that require outdoor cleaning like carpets. Use double garbage bags for excessively infested fabrics/items for disposal.
To control airborne fungal spores, moisten areas that are hard to reach as you work.
Also during mold cleanup, we apply mitigation. Mitigation is the removal of fungal infestation from a home or business premises to prevent possible complications of the individuals occupying the building. Mitigation involves fixing of leaking water systems and cleaning bacteria infested areas. During mold cleanup and mitigation, reduction of the level of exposure to the organism is paramount. At times, mitigation requires you do away with the various items in the environment.


To determine if a place needs mitigation, one needs the services of an environmental hygienist. An environmental hygienist considers some activities with the aim of protecting people. An environmental hygienist maintains an acceptable standard of environmental quality. The environmental hygienist looks at unsanitary water supplies and wastes disposal systems. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevillewest.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

Water and Flood Damage Restoration

4/6/2017 (Permalink)

Water and Flood Damage Restoration

Repairing the home after water damage and flood damage is quite important because someone who wishes to keep their home in the finest condition. Water in home and water in business concerns may be managed quite easily, and the homeowner in Asheville NC, Fairview NC, Weaverville NC and other parts of North Carolina, and there are quite a few different things that may be done to remove water from the house. Water mitigation, drying and air movement protocols may be used to ensure the house is clean, and this article explains how the problems may be solved quickly.

#1: Cleaning Out The Water

Water in home or water in business issues must begin by vacuuming all the water from the space, and the mitigation firm will bring industrial equipment that is capable of pulling out the water quickly. The company will ensure the customers have seen the results of the flood, and they will begin looking at repairs that may be done. Mold, mildew and other things will grow, and the homeowner must be made aware of how widespread it is.

#2: How Is The House Cleaned?

Drying and air movement must be used to ensure the client has been given the finest services, and the house will smell dry and clean when it is finished. There are many things that may be done to keep toxic materials out of the space. The house must be scrubbed clean, and there are quite a lot of people who will experience flood damage that leaves their home beset by a number of different toxins.

#3: Testing For Air Quality

There are many tests that may be used to test air quality, and the restoration company may return to test the air before they complete their work. The work that is done on the house will remove anything that causes the air to appear unclean, and the restoration company will return to the house until they are satisfied with the results of each test.

The air quality in the house will change every time something is cleaned, and debris in the house will be continually removed until the house is spotless. Homeowners may ask the restoration company to check parts of the home that may not have been damaged in the flood, but the water may spread after the cleaning process begins.

Asheville NC, Fairview NC and Weaverville NC homeowners may request services at any time, and they may keep their services going for as long as they like. There are many different things that may be done to keep the house clean. The house may be cleaned inside and out multiple times before it is in the best condition, and someone who is unsure of how to keep the house from flooding again must ask the company how they plan to ensure it will not flood.

#4: Flooding Cannot Go On

Flooding that occurs in the area is common due to landscaping and weather patterns. The homeowner may have their home waterproofed, and they may go through an intensive waterproofing service that will ensure the house is in the best condition possible. They will change the landscaping to ensure that it will lead water away from the home, and the house will not flood in the basement because it has been been kept free of the path fo the water.

The waterproofing will come inside the house, and anyone who is preparing to do so may ask the restoration company how they plan to prevent flooding in the basement. The plan may include a sump pump, and it may be activated when it senses water near it. There are many polymers that may be placed on the walls, and there are many other ways to waterproof or weatherproof the house, and the house will stop water from entering when a storm passes through.

#5: Emergency Services

There are many emergencies in which the homeowner cannot protect themselves because they have been caught by a flood that they did not expect. They must call the company at once to get someone on their property, and they may ask the company how they plan to help with the removal of water in the worst situations. This is a process that is usually done by industrial equipment, and it is used even in the dead of night to ensure the house is no longer flooded.

The emergency crew will arrive quickly, and they will begin to plan how to clean the house. They will see how bad it has gotten, and they will advise the customer of all the things that may be problematic for them. They may have mold or mildew issues that must be repaired, and it is possible that the homeowner will see the house cleaned overnight. They will have issues that may be resolved before they rebuild, and they may ask the company to complete carpentry work.

#6: Repairing The House

The house must have all carpentry repairs completed before the family may enter, and those things are often done after the house has been cleaned. Anything that is hazardous to the health of the family is cleaned out first, and the carpentry is done second. The process is quite simple, and it is managed in a way that leads the house to its original condition. Homeowner will see their home become closed up, and they will see that every part of the house with mold and mildew has been cleaned.

There are quite a few things that may happen when a home has been flooded, and someone who is concerned about flooding must ensure they have taken the time to clean up every inch. Calling the restoration company is quite helpful, and the company will do much more than remove the water. The water will be sucked out quickly, and the repair process will begin. Repairs may be done to every part of the home, and it will ensure the homeowners repair water damage before reentering their North Carolina home. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on water damage restoration.

How Fire Loss Cleanup Works

4/6/2017 (Permalink)

How Fire Loss Cleanup Works

Fire damage in a home in Asheville NC is quite difficult for the family to recover from, and this article explains how anything like soot damage or smoke damage may be remedied. There are many different things that go into repairing the home, and someone who calls for assistance will see the emergency work crew start a treatment plan that returns the home to normal. Every house that has been through a fire in Biltmore NC or Fairview NC must have someone working on improvements, and they will notice the home looks brand new when the work has been completed.

#1: Water Damage From Fire

Water damage from fire is quite easy to repair once the company is on the scene. They will bring out a number of industrial machines that will wick away the water, and they use drying techniques that eliminate water before it will cause mold to grow. This step in the process is quite important as a repaired home will mold quite badly if the water was not removed properly, and the company will move as fast as possible to remove the water so they may do much more work around the house. The home will not be clean until the water is gone, and the house will not smell right until it is dry.

#2: Soot Damage

Soot damage is something that occurs when a home has been on fire for quite some time. The soot will stick to anything, and it must be removed before other repairs are done inside the house. The soot may be scraped from every wall in the process of cleaning the house, and the homeowner will find it is much easier to improve air quality in the house. The company that is testing air in the house will show results to the customer, and they will find it quite simple to change the air until it is completely clean.

#3: Smoke Damage

Smoke in the house will cause quite a lot of damage because it may burn parts of the house that are not properly on fire. The smoke will pass outside the house, and it will get into the air ducts when it has time to fill the space. The smoke will cause a number of problems in the house that include a reduction in air quality, and the homeowner must have the smell removed from the house before they move back in.

The restoration company will ensure that all three items have been removed from the home to make it safer to enter. The house will be much more comfortable, and it will be easy to breathe once again. Health problems are caused by the lingering toxins that sit in the house after a fire, and the fire damage repair crew will ensure they have shown their customers where they found all the debris in the house. Debris is cleaned out before major repairs are completed, and the carpentry may be completed quickly.

#4: Carpentry Work

The carpentry work that is completed in the house must be done on the inside and outside to ensure the house returns to normal shape. The regular condition of the house may be checked against pictures of the space, or the company may choose to complete repairs that are better for the homeowner. The home will look spotless, and it will feel much better to live there. Someone who wishes to repair their home must allow time for all carpentry work to be done properly, and they must ask the builder to create a space that mimics what the house once looked like.

#5: Allowing Time For Repairs And Weather

The weather in the area must be considered when repairs begin as homeowners in Asheville NC, Biltmore NC and Fairview NC may whip up more storms. Rain and wind in the area may make it difficult for the homeowner to have all their work done properly. North Carolina weather may cause problems that extend the length of time it takes to get the job done, and homeowners must ask their contractors how they plan to work around any weather patterns that come through the area.

#6: Calling For Help In An Emergency

The emergencies that happen in the region must be responded to as soon as possible, and the company will send a crew in the middle of the night if necessary to help. The company will have their industrial trucks appear on the site with all the gear that is needed to get the work done, and they will begin work as soon as possible. The company will begin vacuuming water from the space, and the company will offer an estimate for all work that is to be done, and they will submit the invoice to the customer after all work is approved.

#7: The Family May Move Back In

The family may move back into the house when the work has been done, and they will smell air that is fresh. Fresh air in the house will help the family feel comfortable once again, and they will not experience the health problems that occur when the repairs have not been done. The company that comes out to the house will certify the house repaired for the city or county, and they will work out an arrangement with a code enforcement officer to ensure the house mets the requirements of the community.

The companies that are called to the house after a fire must begin repairing the structure as soon as possible, and they will work on the job until it has been completed. They will test air in the house to ensure it is safe to inhabit, and they will show the homeowners things they have done to prevent fires in the future. Weather in the area may sweep brush fires near the house, and a homeowner will gain value because their home was repaired properly. Professional standards in the industry are used on every job in North Carolina. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on fire damage and cleanup.

What To Do When You Find Mold In Your Asheville, NC Home?

4/6/2017 (Permalink)

What To Do When You Find Mold In Your Asheville, NC Home?

There are quite a few things that may happen when someone finds mold in their home, and they must contact someone who will help them at once. This article explains how someone in an Asheville NC home may deal with the weather that causes the problems that are found. There are many different things that may be done to ensure the home will be clean and healthy, and an environmental hygienist will ensure the homeowner has all the help they need when bringing their home back to normal.

#1: Finding Mold Or Mildew

Any microbial growth in the home will hide away from where the owner cannot see it, and the hygienist must be asked into the home to find it. There are quite a few places where the growths may be found, and the environmental hygienist must have time to uncover each problem before the house is cleaned. They will ensure the home has been inspected properly, and they will use the information they gather to keep the house clean.

#2: How Do They Clean Everything?

They will use the most-advanced technology in the industry to ensure they are cleaning every part of the building, and they will use everything from hand tools to special solvents that will help the home come clean. There are quite a few people who are searching for a way to clean off a fungus they have found on their property, and they cannot do it alone. There are special cleaners that were made for such a purpose, and it is important that everyone who is ready to clean their home calls a professional in North Carolina who knows how to help.

#3: How Long Does The Process Last?

The process of cleaning the home may last several hours, and someone who is cleaning will let the homeowner know how much longer it may take. They know that they need a bit of time to complete the process, and they will work slowly to ensure nothing has happened in the interim. They will check on all the work they have done, and they will not certify the house clean until they have inspected it a second time. The inspection will tell the company if here is anything else they need to do, and the inspection will take the customer through the process of ensuring the house is clean.

#4: They Test Air Quality

The air in the house must be tested when mold is found, and the microbial growth that is cleaned from the house will take with it the musty smell that made the house seem unhealthy. The air quality tests may be done many times over, and there are quite a few people in Asheville NC who need to have the cleaning done as soon as possible. They must get the air back to normal because it is making someone in the family sick, and it will cause issues that the family cannot correct without help from a doctor.

#5: Maintaining A Clean Home

The house must remain clean during the year if the homeowner wishes to breathe clean air. They will find this much easier to do when they are using a simple system that was devised for them to ensure the home will remain clean. There may be an inspection once a year to check for a fungus or mildew, and the company will offer a number of other options that ensure the customer may rid themselves of anything unhealthy that is in the house. The house will stay clean when it is inspected once a year, and the owners will grow accustomed to using the technique that were taught to them by the people who work on the staff. The hygienist will send someone they trust to the house to check every nook and cranny, and they will do any cleaning that is needed when the house has started to build a new growth that is unhealthy for the family.

North Carolina residents must ensure they are using their good judgment when having their home cleaned, and they may call a company that will check every part of the house to ensure it is free of all growths. There are quite a few growths that will cause problems for the homeowner, and someone who smells a bad odor in the air must take steps to ensure it has been removed. They will notice how simple it is to keep the house clean, and the job will be done as quickly as possible. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

Experiencing a Fire Loss in East Asheville, NC

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

Experiencing a Fire Loss in East Asheville, NC

Going through the experience of a house fire is a tragic and stressful event. After survival and assuring the irreplaceable hasn’t been lost like life, there are many considerations and steps to be made. Causes of home fires, the various types of damage, the monetary lost, the livability of the home, and special considerations for the Asheville NC or Alexander NC area should be thought out. Having a plan already established and preparation for the aftermath of the horrifying event will help make the transition to normal living much smoother.

Handling a house fire in Asheville NC can be an overwhelming task and it’s a tragedy that should be wished on no one. One of the initial steps to dealing with this mayhem is to help prevent it from happening in the first place. Being aware of the most common causes of house fires can avoid an unfortunate accident from happening. Cooking in the kitchen is one of the most common reasons house fires start. Leaving heating pots and pans unattended and forgetting about them has happened to many, but this mistake can lead to a home fire. Portable heaters that are too close to furniture or other flammable material is another large contributor to residential fires. The biggest cause of house fire fatalities is smoking in the bedroom and falling asleep. Candles, electrical equipment, wiring, and mischievous kids are also big contributing factors to home fires. Just as Smokey the Bear advises the public that they are the only ones that can prevent forest fires, the homeowner is also the biggest aid in prevention of a house fire.

After safety takes priority in the event of a home fire, dealing with the immediate aftermath should take precedent. After the house has been evacuated, do not re-enter the home for anything. Even if the property looks safe in a certain portion of the home, don’t go in. It is possible that the fire isn’t extinguished, an explosion may take place, roofs can collapse, floors might cave in, or other unexpected chaos can take place. Additionally, do not attempt to crank any vehicle that was exposed to any of the house fire damage as this is potentially very dangerous.

Contacting the proper authorities and other vital phone calls should be the next plan of action. Calling 911 for the fire department and ambulance if necessary is vital. Be descriptive with the 911 operator and listen carefully to their instructions after first responders come. The next phone call should be to the insurance company for the home. Contacting family members and other love ones to notify them that everyone is fine and accounted for will also lessen any confusion and unnecessary stress.

Everyone should seek medical attention if there is any injury from burns or smoke inhalation. Also, this is a traumatic event to go through mentally and if a professional is needed to assist with emotional trauma, this help should be prioritized as well.

Others to contact in a timely fashion, but not necessarily immediately include the post office, bank, utility companies, bill collectors, the Social Security Administration, employers, and a neighbor. This will help a smooth transition after the chaos. For assistance with food, clothes, medication, shelter, and other things lost in the fire, contacting the American Red cross and other charitable organizations can be a life saver. Before considering a shelter, evaluating finances to see if a hotel is possible or contacting family and friends for accommodations may be more preferable.

Be prepared to fill out a fire report to document everything known about the fire. It can not be emphasized enough that one should file your insurance claim right away. This promotes an adjuster being sent in a timely manner and the claim being approved under the respective applicable policy. Keeping track of expenses and receipts for items purchased to replace losses in the fire is a good idea in case it’s covered by the insurance policy.

After the home has been cleared to enter by the fire professionals, one should recover as many valuable personal possessions as possible. Items that are salvageable may have monetary or sentimental value and those that are not should still be inventoried for insurance purposes.

Residents in Asheville and Alexander of North Carolina are as susceptible to home fires as anyone else in the country. The mountainous terrain of the North Carolina area could promote fires or delay emergency personnel response time. Also, the terrain and wilderness surrounding this area could be prone to wild fires that present a different risk for home fires compared to ones that start inside the home.

The various types of damage that occur to a home during a fire should all be considered when determining if the house is fixable and livable. Everything from the fire, to water damage from fire, to smoke damage, to soot damage, to bad air quality can be affecting the property. Damage by fire is the most obvious and prevalent normally. A fire contained to a single room should have minimal overall damage, but proper care should go into replacing burnt material. A home with extensive damage throughout the structure will likely not be salvageable and building or purchasing a new home may be necessary. Water damage from fire and mold damage often occurs from the firefighters combating the fire with the water hoses. Smoke damage and soot damage will be an after effect of the fire and will affect the air quality and smell of the home along with the appearance of the soot. Smoke and soot should be properly addressed and neutralized before thinking about moving back into a home after a fire.

There are many things to consider when the victim of a house fire in Asheville or Alexander NC. Livelihood, safety, and loved ones are the first things to come to mind and then doing everything to promote life going on. Contacting emergency personnel and the insurance company immediately will help minimize the actual fire damage and to get compensated and back to life as soon as possible. Hopefully, one will never be in this situation, however it’s best to hope for the best but be prepared for the worst. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on fire damage.

Handling Mold in Your House

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

Handling Mold in Your House

Moldy spots can be a huge problem for homeowners in Asheville NC. It discolors drywall and tile, it blackens your deck and makes your hardwood floors look scummy. More importantly it can adversely affect your health. The microscopic spores that are released by a moldy house can give you a host of symptoms from a runny nose to a serious fever.

Nearly all houses in North Carolina get fungal infestations from time to time, this article will try to explain how to prevent a bad fungal problem and what to do if you already have one.

Minor moldy stains are easily removed using household cleaning products. Try to clean up a big fungal spot can affect your health, especially if you suffer from allergies or have a weakened immune system. If a large issue is discovered, it is recommended that you rigorously protect yourself from inhaling the spores. This usually takes the form of a spore resistant gas mask.

Fungal spores are all over. It is a species of fungus that reproduces by releasing microscopic spores that lead to microbial growth. You are inhaling fungal spores or milldew spores right now as you read this.

The visible type of mold, called mildew, is easily recognizable. It begins as very small, dark spots then grows into larger colonies. It is that black material seen in the grout lines of your shower and outdoors deck boards, often found in shady areas. A surface that is mildewed is often difficult to tell apart from one that is dirty. To see if it is moldy, simply dribble a few drops of bleach on the spot. If the area lightens in a couple minutes, you probably have a mildew problem. Otherwise, the surface is just dirty.

High concentrations of colonies are easy to smell. If the characteristic stale smell of mold is ascertained, look for it under carpets, damp areas, in dark places and under the house. Try to clean these areas quickly with bleach, as if left untreated the infestation will likely spread and require professional help from an environmental hygienist who are located throughout North Carolina.

Removing moldy spots from areas larger than a couple square feet is more difficult. Special precautions must be taken in order to fully protect yourself. The precautions serve not only to protect contamination of the rest of the souse but also to protect you from inhalation of damaging fungal spores. Below are listed some precautions you can take.

• Older clothes should be worn that you can throw away after cleanup.

• Respiration apparatus should be worn, as well as rubber gloves and goggles.

• Ensure that you are in a well ventilated area.

• Make an air tight seal around the moldy washing materials after you are done cleaning and are ready to throw them out.

• Moisten the moldy places with a spray bottle while you work. This will act as a retardant of the spores spreading

• Turn off the AC and heater to prevent lose spores from circulating around the house and establishing new colonies.

If you need to open up the wall in order to remove a moldy spot, be liberal in your removal of areas outside the visibly affected parts. Colonies start very small and microbial growth is impossible to see. It is likely that the seemingly clear areas around a mold stain are also infected and need to be removed as well. Obviously, be safe when using power tools to removes sections of wall and use caution when working near power outlets.

If moisture damage has been neglected for a long period of time, it is likely there will be rot in these places. It is essential remove all portion of rotted areas and replace them as these are beyond repair and will often foster the spread of more colonies.

Fungal infestations are a common problem in households and can get bad very quickly. This can have repercussions on you finances and your health. It is important to watch vigilantly for the beginnings of an infestation or you may find yourself having to call an environmental hygienist. When dealing with an insurmountable problem or issue with any type of fungus, you can always call professionals. Many are located in Asheville NC as well as throughout North Carolina. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com if you suspect mold is in your home or business.

Water Restoration Professionals – How to Handle Water Damage in the Asheville Area

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

Water Restoration Professionals – How to Handle Water Damage in the East Asheville Area

Sudden water in homes, or water damage at a place of business, can be incredibly stressful. During the rainy season in North Carolina, or because of intense storms, flood damage can be disastrous. Water in a home resulting in damage is not always caused by bad weather. Pipes break, or slow, unnoticed leaks in sewer lines or the plumbing can be the problem.

While there are steps to prevent damage from water leaks from happening, the biggest crisis is what to do immediately after the damage has occurred. The first step when water related damage happens, no matter how the water invaded the home, is to contact a licensed restoration company to assess the damage. There are ways to reduce the effects of the damage, plus a solution to help prevent costly repairs.

What is Water Damage?

Water can harm homes and businesses in a number of different ways. When it does intrude a structure, the damage can be devastating. When wood becomes wet, it will first begin to mold, then subsequently start to rot if the damage is not controlled. Metal begins to rust, and laminates will begin to come apart.

The damaging effects of water can be slow. If left unattended, the damage can cause water spots, or mold and mildew can destroy a home or business. There can be a number of causes of the damage, but the result is that the problem must be professionally fixed to preserve the value of the structure.

Residents in the Asheville NC metropolitan area of North Carolina, including Leicester NC have qualified professionals who can help. Once an appointment for a free inspection has been scheduled, there are some helpful steps to take before their arrival.

Stop All Leaks

If the problem is because of a water leak, such as a busted line, the leak must be stopped. When leaking water is the problem, it is imperative that the source of water is shut off. This may mean turning off a particular waterline, or shutting a main valve to the house.

Water leaks that remain active will continue to cause damage. Either immediately get the issue repaired, or shut off the source of water until it can be fixed. Allowing the leak to continue will only worsen the degree of water damage. Stopping the leak will give a water restoration technician an excellent chance of fixing any resulting damage.

Air Movement

Sometimes the worst part of a water leak or flood is the onset of mold and mildew due to the damp conditions. Mold and mildew growth will be slowed if air movement is constant in places that experienced damage, quickly drying out water saturated areas.

Keeping the air moving with fans, or open windows if possible, can slow or even prevent mold from growing. This will not fix the problem completely, but it can prevent damaging mold and mildew from starting before a water restoration job can be started.

Once a team of experts is ready to tackle the issue, they will professionally remove all the water, plus are equipped with high intensity fan systems to dry out the environment completely, stopping mold and mildew growth. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information.

Preparation

Since air movement and drying out all the areas damaged by water is so important, it is also imperative that the damaged places are cleared. To help get the area dried out, get as much of the furniture removed as possible. This will get the site ready for restoration, plus keep dampness from unnecessarily affecting fixtures.

One thing not to forget is cloth and linen items. Things like blankets, pillows and even curtains can draw dampness and make it more difficult to remove all the moisture. While completely emptying everything from a room is not always possible, the more stuff that can be taken out the better.

Water Mitigation

Once air circulation has begun, the next phase in controlling the damage from water leaks or floods, is to hire a water mitigation team. There are qualified professionals in the Asheville NC area that deal specifically with the issues created by water leaks, or flood damage.

Again, take the steps necessary to immediately reduce the damage, but do not delay calling in a qualified water restoration team. They will provide you with the expert advice to fix the damage correctly.

Trained Expertise

Water restoration companies employ technicians that have been through extensive training in handling water related damage. Trained mitigation experts understand the categories of damage and can quickly formulate a plan that will successfully reduce the effects of the damage from water in a home, or water in a business.

The Right Tools

Water restoration technicians have the tools to do the job right. They are equipped with fans to completely dry out damaged areas, plus are licensed to use safety procedures to stop the onset of mold and mildew.

Damage cause by flood waters can be especially harmful if not quickly removed. If pollutants from flooding remain for too long, the structure can be a total loss. Restoration crews have high-powered machines that quickly extract all remaining water. Any damaged wood, or other materials can be safely removed preparing the structure for reconstruction if necessary.

Sometimes the damage is so extensive that the home or business cannot be occupied for a period of time, so having confidence in a restoration team is vital when people need to get back into their buildings quickly. The right tools to do the job are important in seeing that happens.

Homes in the Asheville and Leicester NC region of North Carolina do experience flood damage, plus flooding can destroy a company as a result of flooding waters in a business. Water leaks will also cause extensive damage to a NC home. Begin by drying up as much of the water as possible and immediately schedule a consultation with a professional water restoration technician. By quickly starting the recovery process, the cost of repairing and restoring damaged areas will be greatly reduced.

Is There A Moldy Odor In Your House, It Could Be Mold

10/17/2016 (Permalink)

Mold damage, like anywhere else, starts with that smell. It's produced by microbial volatile organic compounds or MVOCs.

Mold Damage - That Musty Odor

In many cases, the first sign that you have mold is the smell. Most people call it "that musty odor." Unfortunately, if you smell it, that means you are already breathing it in.

Fairview mold damage, like anywhere else, starts with that smell. It's produced by microbial volatile organic compounds or MVOCs. The health problem with mold spores is toxic compounds called mycotoxins. These are what can cause minor and eventually, major health problems.

Why is the musty odor the first sign? Because mold doesn't start to grow in the middle of a coffee table in the middle of a living room. It gets started in the dark, hidden in places like under carpets, inside walls and unfortunately in HVAC systems. SERVPRO inspectors and technicians have the training and access to equipment and cleaning agents to scrub and eliminate mold from your business or home. The only way to get rid of the smell is to get rid of the mold. If the source of the spores is in carpets, floors or hidden behind walls, then our technicians will be able to use anti-fungal cleaning agents to kill the spores.

Before that is started, our professionals will put into place dehumidifiers to begin reducing the moisture of the affected property and surrounding area. Exhaust fans are placed at exit points to blow all mold released by the cleaning process outside the building. If our inspectors find that your HVAC system has not been compromised, then all vents will be sealed to prevent contamination during the cleaning process. If the HVAC has been compromised, then our technicians will need to use anti-fungal foggers to 'scrub' every inch of your air ducts. Fans will be set up to force air through the system to blow all trace of the spores out and thoroughly dry the duct work as well.

Mold is a serious threat far beyond staining walls, ceilings, and carpets. An infestation will keep you out until it has been cleaned, inspected and approved for occupation. With no rain forecasted until the weekend, now is the perfect time to call us here at (828) 255-4535 if you think you may have a mold problem. SERVPRO of Asheville East is prepared to help you restore your home or business to its original state.

Flood Damage Factors to Consider

9/21/2016 (Permalink)

To Be Helpful and Restore Your Flood Damaged Home in Biltmore, Call SERVPRO

SERVPRO Can Mitigate Flood Damage and Relieve Your Stress

It doesn’t matter if a flood is caused by falling water, ground water, or a malfunction in your home water system. Whatever the case, you will need to act quickly after the flooding to make sure your family and home remain safe and to give you the best possible outcome with your insurance company.

You will want to call us, the professionals, at SERVPRO right away when you experience any flood damage in Biltmore. With all water damage, you are always at risk for the growth of dangerous mold within just forty-eight to seventy-two hours. This is not much time, so it is imperative that your property gets dried out as soon as possible, and this is not likely without the professional equipment that trained technicians can bring into your home. The earlier you get started in recovering your property, the chances that your restoration will be simpler and less expensive will be better.
You will also want to call your insurance company as soon as possible. They are the ones who can help you figure out what is covered under your policy. Our professionals at SERVPRO can also help you deal with the insurance company. Together, we can tell you how to prevent any additional damage by getting rid if the water as soon as possible, and assisting you with the claims paperwork.

While you are waiting for our SERVPRO team to arrive, there are a few things you can do including:
Be Safe – if any of the water damaged areas include electrical appliances, keep out of the area. Do not risk electrocuting yourself.
Stop the Water Flow – if there is a pipe that is burst, turn the water main off. If there is a leak from your roof, place a bucket underneath it.
Clear Belongings – take out any light furniture, electronics, or other items out of the water’s path.

Please do not try to restore the flood damage yourself. You will need our technicians who have the proper equipment and experience so that the growth of mold can be prevented and your home can be restored. With fast water extraction, we can mitigate secondary water damage to your personal belongs and building materials.

When you experience flood damage, make sure to contact us at SERVPRO of Asheville East 24/7 by dialing (828) 255-4535. We will arrive at your property quickly and come up with a plan of remediation to restore your property to its pre-loss state "Like it never even happened."

Fire Damage Can Ruin Your Property if Not Eliminated Correctly

8/17/2016 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Damage Get Help in Black Mountain from SERVPRO

SERVPRO Has the Equipment and Expertise to Restore Fire & Smoke Damaged Items

Fire damage does not just destroy the home itself, but it can also destroy much of the furnishings and personal belongings found inside the home. When a fire happens, the priority is to get out of the home. Belongings have no value compared to human life, and many will say their furry family members' lives, as well. Because of the need to evacuate a home when a fire alarm goes off, and to do so as quickly as possible, the belongings left inside are also subject to the damaging effects of not only fire and smoke, but also steam that is created by firefighters' efforts and the water used itself.

Black Mountain firefighters understand that fire damage is often extensive, and this is why they are so aggressive in their efforts. They are not going to be as concerned with the contents of your home as they are with the burning exterior and interior. While your belongings are most likely going to become saturated with water, it is also more likely they will become infiltrate with smoke and soot damage.

Many items will be consumed in the fire, of course, but it is those items that are lightly damaged that professionals in fire damage restoration can most easily restore to their previous state. It isn't just looks, however, that SERVPRO technicians are concerned with. The level of contaminants must be reduced to an acceptable number before an item is safe to be handled again. This is where our latest equipment can come into service.

Our Esporta system can remove the majority of contaminants from items that have been exposed to fire damage. Soot is a greasy-feeling substance, but in actuality, it is rather coarse, although at the microscopic level. We can remove this soot and help your items return to their previous condition. Similar to this, out upholstery experts will ensure that your furniture retains none of the scents of a fire or smoke, and our other technicians can return your walls and ceilings to their spotless appearance again, as well. We also have flooring experts who can bring back the beautiful floors you once enjoyed and make sure that these are also safe to walk on. Fire damage can destroy the strength in a floor's underlay two ways – through the heat of the fire, as well as fire itself, and by exposure to the firefighters' water. We work together as a team to ensure that you and your family can sleep at night “Like it never even happened.”

Call us to help reverse the effects of fire damage in your home. We're SERVPRO of Asheville East, and we can be reached at (828) 255-4535 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Commercial Water Damage at Your Warehouse

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Store Closing in Asheville Because of Ignored Dripping Water

SERVPRO Restores Your Water Damaged Business

Having a business can have its share of problems and commercial water damage is one of them. Many business owners know that this is often an uncovered, or poorly covered, part of any insurance plan, and dread this type of damage the most. If it happens to your business, call us, and we can help you reduce the loss and save a large portion of your inventory and interior furnishings.

Helping you return to your normal business operations in Asheville after water damage quickly is a priority for us. With experts in restoration, cleaning, and water extraction and removal, our team can remove the water, and then inspect your inventory for initial damage. Those items that are damaged by water will be bagged and removed for cleaning at our facility. Other items may be bagged up to protect from possible damage that may occur as we clean and restore your business or warehouse.

With society's dependence on technology, we realize that your business is most likely dependent on technology, including electronic devices and equipment. We recommend that these items be sent to a qualified electronics shop for servicing and cleaning, to ensure that turning these devices on will not result in damage to their interior components. Electronics can be very fragile, and we understand that data loss can mean a severe financial setback for your company. With your other business equipment, we can ensure that shelving, display tables, and any other items are cleaned and sanitized to like-new condition.

As we prepare your inventory and other items for cleaning, we will note on an inventory sheet which items will not be candidates for restoration and will need to be replaced. While we do our best to keep this list as short as possible, much depends on how long water was allowed to stand before our restoration efforts began. Because of this, it is vital to your inventory and your business's financial health to call us as soon as you realize there is commercial water damage in your building. While restoration can be costly, it still is much less expensive than starting over from scratch with entirely new inventory and equipment.

Our restorative work will also ensure that your site is once again safe for employees and your customers. You can reach us 24/7 by calling SERVPRO of Asheville East at (828) 255-4535. We want to get you back in your commercial setting quickly, and we can do this by cleaning, repairing and restoring the water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Our Esporta Wash System can save your valuables.

5/31/2016 (Permalink)

Our New Esporta Wash System

High Tech Cleaning can lower insurnace claims

SERVPRO of Asheville East has added the Esporta Wash System our professional cleaning equipment used to help customers save time and money. We can now restore smoke, soot, and water impacted soft contents/textiles in house. This new technology washing system uses specially formulated cleaning agents, that are also environmentally safe, to clean even the toughest soft content items.

Memories become very valuable when your home is impacted by a disaster. The drywall, flooring and lumber can all be replaced after a flood or fire.  However, it is the valuables like your child's favorite stuffed animal, a family heirloom quilt or a wedding gown that are irreplaceable. Now these items can be restored by us using the Esporta Wash System and lower your insurance claims. 

Our new Esporta Wash System is different than any other laundering process in the world. If you have an heirloom, or a favorite article of clothing that you want to save, call SERVPRO of Asheville East at (828) 255-4535 and you can have more days with your valued treasures.

Flood Damage Can Be Fixed By Professionals in Your House

5/28/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding Means Swift Water Removal to Salvage Your Property in Black Mountain. Call SERVPRO

SERVPRO Can Restore Your Storm Damaged Property

Some areas of the U.S. are more prone to Black Mountain Flood Damage problems than others. Even though this is true, it also important to note that flood waters can affect any home since there are a number of causes for flooding. From an extended period of heavy rains caused by thunderstorms to broken pipes in the basement, any homeowner may need this kind of assistance. It does not matter where the flooding or water comes from because the aftermath can produce the same or similar problems. By hiring an experienced professional team from SERVPRO, we can assist you in returning your life to normalcy.
 
With this in mind, here are three essential Black Mountain Flood Damage services that our professionals are known for providing to the homes that have been affected.
 
#1 - Removes Excess Water
The aftermath of any flood can be a very distressing time for everyone involved. In fact, it may take some people a little while to wrap their mind around the extensive damage that flooding actually causes. However, once the owner and their family begins to realize the adverse effects, they usually want to start the recovery process as quickly as possible by contacting one of our professional representatives. Therefore, one of the first things that our team will begin to do is remove all of the excess water to minimize the potential for secondary water damage. Our team can do this process swiftly because we are equipped with the expertise and advanced industry water removal equipment from truck-mounted power pumps to wet-vacs, and mops.
 
#2 – Dry Out the Home to Prevent Mold
When the excess water had been removed, the next step or services that needed to be provided is to dry out all of the items in the home to prevent problems in the future with mold or other related issues. Fortunately, our IICRC certified and skilled crews have our equipment and tools to take care of these matters. So, we may begin this part of the process by drying the floors, furniture, clothing and other areas in the home that were impacted by the flood waters.
 
#3- Provides a Final Inspection
Before our crew leaves the site, we will also complete an inspection to see if the extensive flood damage has been restored. The flooding could have traveled into areas that cannot be easily seen without the appropriate detection devices like moisture meters and hygrometers. This inspection is to ensure a complete restoration of these issues, and you will receive documentation attesting to the return of your house to its pre-loss condition.
 
Call us 24/7 to respond to your flooding problems so that we can quickly restore your property. Dial 828-255-4535 to contact SERVPRO of Ashville East.

Fairview Mold Damage - Advice on Preventing winter Mold Damage in Fairview

4/29/2016 (Permalink)

Don't let mold damage you! SERVPRO of Asheville East will make your mold infestation "Like it never even happened."

Fairview Winter Mold Damage Prevention Tips

Most homeowners know that winter is a great time for mold in Fairview, but not such a great time for routine care and maintenance. If you own a property in Fairview, mold damage should be something that you keep an eye out for all year round, but particularly during the coldest months of the year. 

If you live in an area which is prone to rain and snow, the risk is even higher. So, it is very important to put Fairview mold prevention measures in place before the winter arrives. For homeowners who are already tackling chronic mold, the only solution is to call in an expert restoration team. They will be able to identify the source of the problem, remove the mold, and give valuable advice on how to prevent repeat appearances in future. 

These handy tips and tricks for preventing Fairview mold damage in the winter will show you the basics and help you protect your home. 

Circulate the Air 

For bathrooms and kitchens, especially, good ventilation is essential. The moisture produced by bathing and cooking should not be allowed to hang around in the air. High-quality ceiling fans are an effective and affordable way to prevent mold damage in Fairview homes. 

Inspect Pipes Regularly 

Every 2-3 months, take a couple of minutes out of your day to inspect the pipework inside your property. A visual inspection is fine; just keep an eye out for cracks, corrosion, and rust. You need to have identified and solved potential leaks even before they occur. Monitoring pipes is the best way to do this. 

Keep Gutters Clean 

You’d be surprised at how much damage blocked and broken gutters can cause. If guttering does not function properly, water may be directed straight downwards, towards the foundation of the property. This can quickly turn into a serious problem and even cause flooding. Issues with mold are also likely to develop, so keep your gutters clean. 

Protect Crawlspaces 

It can be tricky to safeguard crawlspaces against moisture and mold damage because they sit so close to the ground. When it rains or snows, this area is the first to feel it. As such, it can develop serious problems with mold and water damage. However, laying heavy roofing paper or polyethylene film over the soil can be an effective way to cut off the moisture. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

For more information and advice on preventing winter mold damage, pick up the phone and call SERVPRO of Asheville East on (828) 255-4535 today. 

Weaverville Fire Damage - Efficient Fire Damage Cleanup in Weaverville

3/28/2016 (Permalink)

One of the more interesting facts about fire is that most house fires start in the kitchen.

Weaverville Fire Damage Cleanup

If your property has recently been damaged by a fire in Weaverville, it's important to receive quick and efficient fire damage cleanup. The damage may have been due to faulty electrical wiring or any number of causes, but one thing is clear: It's a dangerous mess that needs to be cleaned up as soon as possible.

Contact a Weaverville Fire Damage Cleanup Expert 

Because SERVPRO of Asheville East is a locally owned and operated company, we can respond to your emergency promptly. As soon as the fire is out, our team of knowledgeable service experts will begin diagnosing the problem and recommending a comprehensive plan of restoration. From there, we will begin to clean out the area and get rid of the remaining smoke and odors that are rendering your property uninhabitable. 

Our team is ready to come immediately to the scene when you call to report Weaverville fire damage. Once there, we will begin by removing all the charred debris and other damage. We will then remove all the excess water left behind by firefighters. We will purify the air in the building to get rid of noxious smoke odors. We will then clean and restore the entire property, including your upholstery, rugs and carpets, and other areas of special concern. 

When it comes to cleaning up Weaverville fire damage, our team of service experts is fully experienced and qualified to do the job. Each member of our service team has completed a course of certification in such critical areas as mold removal, fire and smoke damage restoration, water damage restoration, and upholstery and fabric cleaning.

Our Policy Is to Restore, Rather Than Replace

While your property may be fully insured against fire damage with a policy that includes replacing your building, the actual cost of tearing down the existing structure and building a completely new one may simply be too prohibitive in practice to consider. Here at SERVPRO of Asheville East, our policy is to restore your property to its original state rather than replace it. This policy allows us to perform our services at a much more cost-effective rate while easing the amount of disruption you experience as a result of the damage.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Asheville East is at your service to handle all your fire damage cleanup and restoration needs. Our company is locally owned and operated, and we are fully equipped to respond to emergencies in Weaverville, Asheville, Fairview, Black Mountain, and the surrounding area. Please feel free to contact our company at any time of the day or night for a fast solution to all your fire damage needs. Call (828) 255-4535 today for a quick response to your emergency.

Rooms Most Susceptible To Water Damage in Weaverville

1/5/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Suggests to Immediately Repair Any Leak in Your Weaverville Home

Inspect Your Weaverville Property's Water Damage Wet Spots by SERVPRO

Weaverville Water Damage is not an equal opportunity attacker. Rather, it is more likely to strike in particular rooms of your house. Learning more about where water damage is most likely to take place is important because it enables you to develop common sense plans that will prevent, or, at least, moderate, extensive property damage. SERVPRO suggests you read the following short outline regarding the four rooms that are most at risk for water intrusion:

Basement
Water always tries to seek its weakest resistance to flow by the force of gravity. Your basement is the lowest area of your property; water heaters, furnaces, and washing machines can malfunction causing water leakages. Additionally, the basement seepage can result from external forces such as a massive outdoor downpour that penetrate the walls, natural groundwater that infiltrates the basement floor, or a large scale flooding. As such, you should check your basement regularly to spot evidence of leaks or active leaks that might be occurring. Be aware of a sense of dampness or a musty odor resulting from a mold infestation.

Bathroom
The bathroom is a main intersection between drain pipes and plumbing supply lines. Plenty can go awry in this room of your property. Overflowing toilets, tubs, showers, and leaky pipes can all contribute to the onset of water damage. Additionally, the bathroom can be a zone for high humidity that triggers mold growth.

Laundry Room
The washing machine and utility sink move volumes of water. In some cases, the water supply hose could break or crack, the drain hose may dislodge from its drain exit, or the supply line may burst or pinhole. If the leakage happens while you are on vacation or out of town, the water damage could result in a flood that impacts your entire home. You should have your hoses changed every five years to stay on the safe side. Large amounts of standing water have an enormous impact on furnishings and structural materials.

Kitchen
Like your bathroom, the kitchen is a room that carries high water risk. For example, large sinks can accept and subsequently drain high volumes of water. Additionally, clogs and plumbing leaks can cause overflows and backups. Finally, ice makers and dishwashers connected to your supply lines can spill water or cause leaks. SERVPRO recommends calling a plumber or immediately fixing any leak in the kitchen. A pot to catch drips is a recipe for disaster.

Let the SERVPRO Water Damage Restoration Experts Assist You.
Although recognizing which rooms of your home are at a significant risk of water damage is important, this does not mean that you will always be able to prevent a problem from occurring. If you do experience water damage, there's only one company to call for Weaverville water damage restoration services: SERVPRO. Our IICRC-certified technicians are ready to assist you 24/7 with any water intrusion or storm emergency. From water removal to final walk-through, we guarantee our services to your complete satisfaction. "Like it never even happened."

We’re Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

SERVPRO of Asheville East specializes in water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We have extensive water damage restoration training, and our process emphasizes regular monitoring and documentation of the drying process from beginning to end. We are part of the local communities of Weaverville, Black Mountain, and Asheville and we can help 24/7. Call us at (828) 255-4535

Four Ways Water Damage Adversely Impacts Your Property's Foundation in Black Mountain

11/11/2015 (Permalink)

Sump pump is First Line of Defense for Basement Water Damage

SERVPRO Can Restore Your Black Mountain Foundation After Water Damage

One of the worst issues a residential property owner in Black Mountain may have to grapple with is water damage. Although water damage can adversely impact any region of the property, the damage that can be done to the home's foundation is particularly problematic. Learn more about the problems that water damage can cause to your home's foundation by reviewing the following information provided by SERVPRO:

1. The saturated soil located near your home's foundation walls can leak or wick into the walls of the basement. After the basement or foundation site is excavated and the foundation flooring is poured, the builders construct the exterior walls. They will back-fill soil into the cavity surrounding the outside walls. This soil will not become as compacted as the property's adjacent soil. Moreover, it will soak up the water nearby. After rainfall, water pressure can push the walls of the foundation inward and also cause them to crack or leak.

2. Water is capable of washing nearby soil from beneath and around your foundation. Specifically, many homes and garages are designed over concrete slabs, and if a slope that drains water away from the property's foundation is not created, the soil can wash away. As the water continues eroding the soil located beneath the property's foundation, it will start to crack and can even sink, like a minature sink-hole. Septic tank black water may seep into the structure.

3. Water damage can be problematic for homes in which the basement is built in a region where the amount of clay located in the soil is significant. This is the case because clay retains water more effectively than other types of soil. Because the clay expands upon absorbing moisture and then contracts when it dries out, the result is pressure changes that destabilize the structural integrity of the property's foundation wall and flooring.

4. Water, sufficient water moisture or vapor located close to the sill plate, studs, or siding near the foundation can cause wood rot. This may also result in rotting of floor joists in crawl space construction.  As these fungi attacked and softened the cellulose building materials, a conducive condition for a subterranean termite attack is viable. The result is the rotting and loss of structural strength of the wood. So, clay that retains moisture affecting exterior wall and slabs, and crawl space foundations absorbing water into floor joists, piers, and single or double pine flooring, can all lead to water damage. 

Dormant mold spores, present in all Black Mountain houses, have the moisture, along with the cellulose food source, to begin to grow string--colonies.  These molds can now proliferate into large mold patches damaging furniture, drywall, and infiltrating your HVAC system. Health issues arise from inspiring fungi's mycotoxins into your lungs.

Let The Professionals Of SERVPRO Assist You. As explained by the information listed above, water damage in Black Mountain can have a profoundly negative impact on your home's foundation and structure.  However, securing professional water damage restoration services can help you address and resolve the problem before it gets too widespread. Our team can be trusted for immediate, effective restoration services.  SERVPRO employs IICRC-certified technicians, who also receive additional training in all aspects of water damage remediation. Call us for advice on how to protect your foundation, or call us to restore any water damage problems.

Locally Owned and Operated

We live and work in Black Mountain too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Asheville East is close by and ready to respond to your water or flood damage emergency. Call us for help. (828) 255-4535

Nine Sources Causing Water Damage in Asheville

11/8/2015 (Permalink)

Water Heater Sprung a Leak, Call SERVPRO

SERVPRO Can Protect Your Asheville Home from Water Damage

Residential property owners in Asheville can find themselves dealing with a wide range of home maintenance issues resulting in water damage. Water leaks can be not only an irritant but also inconvenient and expensive. However, understanding more about where water leaks tend to take place can empower you to prevent them. To get the information you need regarding this important matter, SERVPRO suggests you review the short outline provided below:

Where Do Water Leaks Take Place? As many water damage restoration experts know, water leaks can happen in numerous places within the home setting. However, there are several places where water leaks are particularly prevalent. Here are nine of them:

1. Washing Machines. Washing machines are hotbeds for leaks. The drain hose, usually anchored to a wall and the supply lines located behind the washing machine can rupture at any time.

2. Water Supply Lines. The plumbing system within your home operates under water pressure ranging from 40 to 60 p.s.i. Be sure to check periodically for water pooling under sinks. Know where your main water line cut-off valve is located.

3. Water Heaters. When your water heater tank fails, your entire home could flood. Luckily, the tank failure is typically preceded by signs indicating minor leakages, such as rusting around the supply lines or lower base of the tank. Set the tank in an overflow safety pan.

4. Commodes. If your toilet becomes clogged, turn off the water supply to prevent overflowing by continual flushing. Try using a plunger to remove the debris before calling a plumber.

5. Sewer/Sump Pump. A sewer blockage can send raw sewage (black water) into your residential space in Asheville. The sewage will typically gravitate to the lower drains of your basement. E Coli and other contaminants must be removed and the area professionally sanitized. SERVPRO has the experienced technicians, equipment, and chemical products to ensure the rturn of cleanliness and safety of your home.

6. Heavy Appliances. Refrigerators can become the source of water leaks if the ice maker line ruptures. Additionally, the dishwasher's supply line can leak, or the drain line may disconnect from the sink drainage pipe and go unnoticed for an extended period. Check frequently for moisture accumulation under the kitchen sink.

7. Sinks And Showers. Missing caulking or grout can enable water to slip through your shower and tub enclosures into the walls creating a conducive condition for mold growth. Additionally, faucets are prone to wearing out. Replace or fix these taps before a drip becomes a serious leak.

8. HVAC Equipment. Drain line clogs in your air conditioning unit can cause overflow water leakage. Have a micro switch installed to activate a small pump in the air-handler catch pan for water removal. Utilize algicides to prevent clogging and a maintenance schedule for your entire system.

9. Gutters. Gutters and downspouts may need leaf-catchers to ensure proper rainwater drainage. Inspect for debris and eliminate the potential of structural damage to trusses, fascias, and soffits

Let SERVPRO Fix Your Water Leak Challenge

The IICRC-certified technicians of SERVPRO are here to assist you. If your Asheville home requires service to rectify water damage call us. Our technicians have extensive industry experience, training, and equipment to return your property to pre-water damage condition.  With over 55 years of experience and 1,650 franchises, our great reputation and expertise speak for itself. Our goal is your complete satisfaction.

Locally Owned and Operated

We live and work in Asheville too. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Asheville East is close by and ready to respond to your water or flood damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the Asheville, Black Mountain, and Weaverville communitues and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be. Call us for help. (828) 255-4535

Commercial Fire Damage in Asheville

11/5/2015 (Permalink)

Control the Flame and You Control Your Business

SERVPRO Has the Experience to Deal with Your Asheville Commercial Fire Damage

Although commercial property owners in Asheville have several issues that they must be cognizant of, natural disasters or human error that cause commercial fire damage top the list. The property damage, emotional turmoil, and economic strain that fires can cause will often leave the business owner in a state of anxiety. However, learning more about commercial fire damage and how a professional commercial fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO can limit property losses is the key to helping you avoid stress when viewing the results of a destructive fire. Get the information and advice you need to grapple effectively with a commercial fire by reading the following overview:

Common Causes of Commercial Fires

The National Fire Protection Association states that fire damage to commercial buildings generated more than $4 billion in losses to property over the last five years. There are several factors that can lead to a commercial fire. Some of them include:

• Electrical devices causing overloading of circuits
• Lighting equipment
• Cooking equipment, overused cooking oils, clogged exhaust systems 
• Lightning
• Arson

Once the fire is in full swing, the structural damage it causes transcends that which is visibl. The smoke from the fire will also release toxic gases and chemicals into the surrounding atmosphere.

Different Kinds of Commercial Fire Damage. There are several different kinds of commercial fire damage that can impact your property. Some of them include:

• Office assets (furniture, equipment, etc.)
• Burnt structures (cabinets, flooring, drywall, etc.)
• Smoke (this could be dry or wet)
• Soot (especially from the property's furnace causing puff back)
• Odor from toxic chemicals and smoke
• Mold damage resulting from standing water adding sufficient moisture to the ambient air for its proliferation
• Water damage the result of fire department extinguishing efforts

How We Can Help You

The professionals of SERVPRO specialize in offering a wide range of commercial fire damage restorative services that will get your commercial property back to its pre-fire loss condition. Some of the things we'll do to expedite and optimize the fire damage remediation process include:

• Assess and report the full scope of damages
• Secure the commercial site for safety and against vandalism and theft using tarps, plywood, and fencing
• Complete an inventory of damaged materials-- CCIS--Contents Claim Inventory Service, which categorizes all items and building materials comprehensively as salvageable, non-salvageable, or questionable. 
• Decide, along with your insurance adjuster, which items should be cleaned and restored and which should be replaced. SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for over 300 insurance companies, government entities, and property management companies. Cooperation expedites the fire damage restoration process while mitigating expenses.
• Protect unaffected areas of the property from contamination
• Detect and remove toxic chemicals and gases
• Determine the best restoration methodologies
• Replace property materials when necessary
• Restore the building to its original, pre-fire condition when possible

Let The Professionals Of SERVPRO Assist You

Commercial fire damage in Asheville can have serious consequences in lost time and lost money. The IICRC-certified professionals of SERVPRO possess the knowledge, cutting edge equipment, and experience to resolve your commercial fire damage issues quickly and correctly. We will work to make it "Like it never even happened."

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Asheville East can respond immediately to your commercial fire damage emergency regardless of the size or scope of the damage. We are faster to any size disaster. Call us for an immediate response. (828) 255-4535

Commercial Water Damage in Asheville: Planning For Disaster

9/25/2015 (Permalink)

In many cases, the threat of commercial water damage is a source of anxiety for business owners.

Commercial Water Damage in Asheville: Planning For Disaster

In many cases, the threat of Asheville commercial water damage is a source of anxiety for business owners. However, developing and implementing a plan of action can help alleviate stress by ensuring that you'll know what to do in the event that disaster strikes. Because storms are unpredictable, there is oftentimes little you can do to prevent Asheville commercial water damage from adversely impacting your property. However, developing a plan of action that lets you and your employees know what to do and who to contact can help you prevent additional and secondary water damage. Learn more about how to develop a sound, effective disaster plan by reviewing this short outline:

The Emergency Plan: A Brief Overview
To be strong and substantive, your emergency plan needs to provide clear instructions for what to do in the event of a disaster. Specifically, your employees will need to know things like:

• which exits to take
• where the fire extinguishers are
• when emergency evacuation is optional and mandatory
• important contact numbers (fire department, insurance providers, etc.)

Sometimes, business owners will want to put off the process of developing the emergency plan because they live in a region that is not prone to flooding and other natural disasters. However, putting the plan in place is still important for several reasons, including the fact that it will teach your employees how to handle any type of water damage that transpires.

Choosing The Right Water Damage Restoration Company
When you develop your disaster plan, it's important to include the contact numbers of at least two professional water damage companies. You also need to speak with a few companies regarding your business and any of your specific needs. Ideally, you want to employ a water damage restoration team that possesses all of the following attributes:

• extensive industry experience
• IICRC certified technicians
• a good track record
• an A or A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
• a cutting edge perspective

Choose SERVPRO
If you want to prevent Asheville commercial water damage from adversely impacting your property's structure and your health, it's important to develop a plan for disaster. In addition to realizing this objective, you need to know which water damage company to call in case disaster strikes. The ideal company to call is SERVPRO. With more than 50 years of industry experience, we're pleased to offer holistic services. Some of them include climate control services, emergency boardup, and temporary lighting. We're ready to assist you with the water damage remediation service at any time, so call today at (828) 255-4535!

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Asheville East is close by and ready to respond to your flood or water damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the Asheville community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.

When your commercial property or home has water damage from leaks or flooding, we have the experience and expertise to help. Give us a call. (828) 255-4535

Fire Damage in Asheville: A Brief Overview for Recovery

8/27/2015 (Permalink)

Protect the Structure and Contents from Unwanted Water After a Fire

Steps to Ease the Difficulties of a Fire-Damaged House in Asheville 

As a homeowner you know, a fire on your property in Asheville, is one of the most difficult realities to face.  Unfortunately, a fire can destroy the structural integrity of your property as well as your personal possessions within a very short period. When you consider the physical and financial losses that fire damage can cause, it is easy to see why many homeowners fall prey to emotional trauma afterwards. To ensure that you would be able to grapple effectively with fire, if one occurs in your home, consider the helpful information outlined below:  

What Causes Fire And Fire Damage? 

Fires result from several chemical and thermal processes involving three basic elements: oxygen, a flame or spark(heat), and fuel. This type of chemical reaction is exothermic, that is it releases heat. The fuel sustains the fire and also gives it the materials necessary to facilitate combustion. Some combustible materials include rubber, plastics, cardboard, paper, and wood. These sounds like building materials. For a fire to start, a heating component must come in contact with a combustible material. The heating element will then warm the material to the point of ignition. At this point, the material will explode or ignite. 

The Effects of Fire Damage

When your house is affected by fire, the damages caused can be very costly. This is especially the case if the fire adversely impacts the structural integrity of your property. If the damage is severe enough, a professional restoration company like SERVPRO may work for weeks or months to return your Asheville home to its former condition. If smoke and fire coat your possessions and home in a substantive layer of ash and soot, removing the debris can be very difficult and demands a high degree of expertise. Additionally, the water used by firefighters to extinguish the flames in your house can generate water damage. This water compounds the fire-damaged interior of your Asheville home.

Hiring A Professional Fire Repair and Restoration Company  

In many cases, homeowners want to take care of the cleanup and home restoration processes for themselves. However, the extensive damage caused by fires makes it advisable to hire a professional company like SERVPRO. Fire and smoke damage are especially destructive. The damage caused can destroy valuable items, deplete financial assets, and cause emotional trauma. Additionally, homeowners will often have a large number of responsibilities to handle during the aftermath of a fire. Hiring a professional restoration company is the way to ease the burden of responsibilities and out-of-pocket expenses while also ensuring that the restoration process flows professionally and smoothly. Look for a company that focuses on restoration rather than replacement as the first option.

Conclusion 

Although dealing with the aftermath of a fire can be difficult, attaining professional assistance can help you restore your residential property to its former condition.  SERVPRO takes pride in its expert technicians on consistently working with dedication and determination. You will receive the best remediation services on the block. 

Locally Owned, with National Resources

SERVPRO of Asheville East is locally owned and operated so we are part of the Asheville community too. When you have a fire or water damage emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. 

We Are Faster to Any Size Fire Emergency. Please call us  (828) 255-4535

Asheville Hurricane and Tropical Storm Preparedness

6/11/2015 (Permalink)

Pay attention to forecasts and official communications.

Hurricane and Tropical Storm Preparedness

Every year, Asheville tropical storms and hurricanes cause devastating loss of life and millions of dollars in damages to communities. All who live in areas prone to these storms should take the following preparation steps to ensure the best chances of survival.

Pay attention to forecasts and official communications. Tune in to your local television and radio news stations for the latest updates on storms, and keep a battery powered or hand crank radio on hand in case the power goes out. Note the location of local shelters and evacuation routes, when given.

Prepare your home before damaging winds arrive. Secure outdoor furniture or bring these items inside the home. Fortify windows by applying tape on the inside. This helps to prevent them from shattering and producing sharp projectiles in high winds. Finish the job by boarding them up on the outside to protect them from flying debris. Map the location of your gas, electric and water shut-offs. If a storm is imminent, shutting off these utilities can prevent flooding from burst water pipes, fires, and electrocution. 

If there has been no order to evacuate and you plan to remain in your home throughout the Asheville storm, ensure you have adequate supplies on hand. Always assume that it could take several days before aid workers reach you. Fill your bathtub with water for washing and related needs, and fill gallon jugs with potable water for cooking and drinking. Plan to have at least three days worth of food and water on hand. Your food items should all be non-perishables that do not require cooking. If you have alternative cooking methods, such as camp stoves, use these only outdoors in a well-ventilated area to prevent accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. Other supplies to have available include flashlights, spare batteries, pet food, prescription medications, rain gear, and a first aid kit. 

Keep your vehicle’s gas tank filled in case you need to evacuate. Also, include bottled water, emergency food, a small first aid kit and flashlights in case you become stranded. Do not assume that just because no evacuation orders are in effect that your area will remain safe. Be prepared at all times to evacuate quickly. 

Asheville hurricanes and tropical storms cannot always be avoided. However, by preparing well you will increase your chance of survival. Do not second-guess the power of storms. Obey evacuation orders without hesitation. 

Asheville Toxic Mold Basics

6/11/2015 (Permalink)

Large amounts of mold can create pathogens that reduce indoor air quality.

Toxic Mold Basics

Many people are concerned about Asheville mold and the effects it can have on health. Large amounts of mold can create pathogens that reduce indoor air quality. However, a small amount of mold in the home is typically not harmful to one's health.

What Is Mold?

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp, warm places. However, the spores can thrive for a long time in a dry place. That is why the airborne spores will also need to be cleaned.

It is impossible to completely eliminate mold because it is found in nearly every building. If there has been a high concentration of mold for several weeks or months, then this can be dangerous to health. A small pipe leak, flooding, damp floors and ceilings can facilitate Asheville mold growth.

All types of mold can be toxic if they grow in a very high concentration. In fact, some types of mold create toxins that can be damaging to one's health. Aspergillis and black mold are two of the most common types of toxic mold.

Where Does Mold Grow?

Asheville mold can grow in any place that is poorly-ventilated and damp. Basements, kitchens, bathrooms and leaks around air conditioners, water heaters, windows and roofs are examples of areas where mold often grows. It can also grow in wood, carpet, ceiling tiles, upholstery and drywall. Mold spores can cling to pets and clothing. Heating and air conditioning systems can also circulate the spores throughout the building.

How Does One Get Rid Of Mold?

You can prevent mold from accumulating in your home by keeping it well-ventilated and dry. If you have a plumbing leak, then you will need to get it fixed as soon as possible. Contact a professional mold remediation if you notice a dusty odor or dust spores.

Care has to be taken when removing mold from a hard surface because spores can be released into the air. In many cases, porous surfaces that have mold will require replacement. This includes things like ceiling tiles, wallpaper, carpet and drywall. A complete renovation may recommended if the mold infestation is inside of the structure of the building.

Asheville mold remediation can be expensive, but the cost is worth it. You can make a mold problem worse by attempting to clean it. It is best to call a professional so that you can ensure the mold is removed in the proper way.

Understanding Mold

Some restoration companies advertise “mold removal” and may even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy because removing all mold from a house or business is impossible; microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Here are the facts:

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

HVAC Systems and Mold in Asheville

6/11/2015 (Permalink)

HVAC systems within drain pans and piping often contain mold.

HVAC Systems and Mold

HVAC systems within drain pans and piping often contain mold. Maintenance personnel need to be aware of the consequences of an HVAC system that is not well-maintained and can spread mold. This way, they will be able to work on a strategy to prevent Asheville mold damage. 

Understanding the Issue

Asheville mold is seen as a problem when it is detectable in an indoor setting. It is typically found in certain circumstances that involve the optimal combination of air, temperature, and moisture. The most common food sources for mold are drywall paper, cardboard, carpets, and other household surfaces.

Appropriate Procedures

One of the most effective ways to do away with the source of moisture is to control relative humidity. An informed manager can be helpful here; some think that they will be able to eliminate spores using cleaners such as biocides and bleach. However, these agents can only kill or disguise some of the mold, leaving behind non-viable spores that can continue to grow and spread in the HVAC system. As such, proactivity is important with an HVAC management plan, and in most cases, it is necessary to hire a professional.

A Lack of Guidance

There are no federal regulations, so there are many state agencies, as well as groups and associations, that have published sets of recommendations for Asheville mold remediation indoors, as well as guidelines for improving the health of people who have been exposed to mold spores. Several of these speak of the proper guidelines in terms of designing, installing, and maintaining HVAC systems. However, federal regulation is crucial; a comprehensive remediation plan would be helpful to everyone. An official policy would benefit businesses as well as individuals; it would protect the financial and medical interests of everyone who is involved.

New Regulations

HVAC systems are known to have a significant effect on condensation; for this reason, it is very important that new regulations be put into place to make for consistent standards within the HVAC industry. These regulations should entail mechanisms for control of HVAC condensation in buildings and between them, as well as the development of a maintenance regime for drain pans and pipes within buildings.

Every HVAC manager and technician should be taught these new regulations and be required to abide by them, so that the safety of the environment within these buildings is protected. This should be made a priority, for the sake of public health.

Commercial Mold Remediation Presents Unique Challenges

Mold can spread quickly through a property if left untreated. SERVPRO of Asheville East can respond quickly, working to first contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of the building. Next, we will begin the remediation process, working safely and effectively to manage the situation. We have the training, experience, and equipment to contain the mold infestation and remediate it to preloss condition. Learn more about SERVPRO of Asheville East training and certifications.

• Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician