R.E.S.T.O.R.E.

5/18/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Asheville is ready to R.E.S.T.O.R.E your home or business "Like It Never Even Happened".

R.E.S.T.O.R.E.

R - Rapid Response: SERVPRO of Asheville provides swift and efficient response times to mitigate damage and restore your home promptly.

E - Expert Team: Our skilled and experienced team of restoration professionals is trained to handle a wide range of restoration needs.

S - Superior Solutions: We employ cutting-edge techniques, advanced equipment, and industry-best practices to deliver superior restoration results.

T - Thorough Assessment: Our team conducts a thorough assessment of the damage to develop a customized restoration plan tailored to your specific needs.

O - Outstanding Customer Service: We prioritize customer satisfaction and provide exceptional service throughout the restoration process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

R - Reliable Results: SERVPRO of Asheville is committed to delivering reliable and long-lasting restoration results that meet or exceed your expectations.

E - Emergency Ready: We are available 24/7 and ready to respond to any emergency restoration situation, providing you with peace of mind during challenging times.

With SERVPRO of Asheville's services, you can trust that your home will be in capable hands, and that your restoration needs will be efficiently addressed.

Important Steps in Mold Remediation in Asheville NC Area

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.