Less Downtime When You Dry Ice Blast

11/14/2021 (Permalink)

Dry Ice Blasting is an effective way to speed up restoration after a fire.

As a commercial property owner, you know how important it is to get back to work after any sort of disaster. We've been working with large and small commercial properties for over 50 years and have an arsenal of restoration techniques depending on the building and situation. One of the fastest and most eco-friendly one is referred to as Dry-Ice Blasting (also called CO2 Blasting, or Dry Ice Dusting.)

Dry-ice blasting is used to remove surface stains - most often this is char, soot and residue that is left behind after the flames have been extinguished. It works by using compressed air to accelerate dry ice pellets to create mini-explosions that lift the stain from the substrate. Despite how that sounds - it is non-abrasive , non-conductive and can be used without damaging active electrical or mechanical equipment.

In most cases, items won’t need to be disassembled because it finds its way into small spaces between parts. Disassembly and reassembly are time consuming so dry-ice blasting can reduce downtime so you can return to business quicker.

Our goal is to put things back together so that it looks and feels like “it never happened.” If you experience fire damage, SERVPRO of North Garland can dry-ice blast away the damage, remove lingering odors and minimize downtime for you and your tenants.

If your business needs help with fire damage, give SERVPRO of North Garland a call at 972-496-2441.

Have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving!

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

If you love fried turkey - make sure you know the rules for frying!

Who doesn't love a deep friend turkey? You might think this is an easy DIY - but failed fryers are one of the most common sources of fire damage throughout the fall. 

Here are some tips to keep your turkey trouble-free.

• Don't Use Too Much Oil - Even a small amount of oil can catch flame if it comes into contact with a burner. If the pot is too full, oil can spill when you insert the turkey. The U.S. Fire Administration suggests that you first place the turkey in a pot with water so you will know the correct amount of oil.

• Don’t Leave a Fryer Unattended – deep fryers may not have thermostat controls and can overheat to the point of combustion. It’s crucial to stay close and to check the temperature of the oil often. Deep Fat Fryers are also easy to tip over – so make sure the area is secure and monitored.

• Never Use a Fryer Inside – these should always be used outdoors on a solid surface (not a deck or under a patio cover.)

• No Frozen Turkeys in the Fryer - Make sure you thaw your turkey completely prior to cooking. When a frozen turkey comes into contact with high temperature oil it causes lots of steam. The steam can make the oil boil over and catch fire. 

• Keep a Fire Extinguisher & Pot Holders Nearby - make sure you have a fire extinguisher and well-insulated potholders nearby since the lid, sides and handles get insanely hot and you could end up with harsh burns if not careful.

• Keep Others Safe - never let children or pets near the fryer when in use or after use as the oil can remain hot for hours.

SERVPRO of North Garland wishes you and your family a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

Will Insurance Cover This?

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

It's important to understand your policy coverage before having to file a claim.

It's important to know what your insurance will and won't cover when it comes to water damage. Most policies do NOT cover "gradual" damage - which happens over time instead of a sudden or accidental event. 

This type of damage happens most often in homes that haven't been properly maintained. Often rusted pipes or other slow leaks lead to indoor flooding and not all policies include this coverage.

If your hot water heater busts, an appliance leaks or there is water damage from a storm - it's likely you can file a claim to cover the resulting damage.

Many people don't realize that the broken item itself is not covered - only the repairs that are necessary as a result of the incident. In addition, you will have to pay your deductible and the cost to replace what broke, leading to damage (water heater, dishwasher, etc.)

If you do find water damage and need to file a claim – we can help you navigate the process. Call us as soon as it happens and our team will come out to properly document all damage and stop any further issues. We work closely with insurance providers to ensure they have all the required information in order to properly verify and pay the claim in a timely manner.

We are available 24/7 to help and make it "Like it never even happened."

10 Tips for a Fire-Free Fall

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Keep your fall fire free with these safety tips.

There are 2x more residential fires on Thanksgiving Day than any other day of the year. So November is a good month to remind everyone how to stay safe from fire. Here are 10 tips:

1. Watch your cooking - never leave a stove unattended. If you have to leave, turn it off.
   
   
2. Give space heaters space - portable heaters should be at least 3 feet from anything that could burn. Always turn them off when leaving the room or going to sleep.
3. No smoking in the house - ask smokers to smoke outside. Have sturdy, deep ashtrays for smokers.
4. Keep matches and lighters up high, out of the reach of children.
5. Replace electrical cords that are cracked, damaged, have broken plugs, or loose connections.
6. Keep candles at least one foot from anything that can burn. Blow them out candles when you leave the room or go to sleep.
7. Make a home fire escape plan and practice it with your family / roommates at least twice a year.
8. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. Interconnect smoke alarms throughout the home so that when one sounds, they all sound.
9. Then, test your smoke alarms at least once a month and replace batteries once a year or when the alarm “chirps” to tell you the battery is low. Replace any smoke alarm that is more than 10 years old.
10. If you are building or remodeling your home, install residential fire sprinklers. Sprinklers can contain and may even extinguish a fire in less time than it would take the fire department to arrive.

At SERVPRO of North Garland, we've seen the damage that fire can do and want your to keep your fall flame free.

SERVPRO of North Garland Offers Commercial Services

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Here to help the business community of North Garland

If you're a business owner, then you know your property says a lot about your business to potential clients and customers. This is why it's essential to build trust and present your business or public space as a safe, clean place to be.

With more than 50 years of experience, we’ve earned the reputation as a trusted leader in the restoration industry and specialize in fire and water damage, specialty cleaning, mold, and so much more.

Our highly-trained professionals understand your need to keep business going, even after an emergency. That’s why we offer flexible solutions, working after hours or around the clock to complete your restoration project. In many cases, SERVPRO of North Garland can clean up in a way that the damaged space can be safely isolated from functional space so that normal operations can proceed around the cleanup. This minimizes the downtime you have for your facility.

We’re Faster to any size disaster™ providing 24/7 emergency service.

Lightening Lessons

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Stay safe in a storm.

If you can hear thunder then you’re close enough to be struck by lightning – so understanding the facts will help you stay safe in a storm.

• Lightning is highly unpredictable which increases the risk to people and property.
• Rain isn’t required for lightning to occur – it’s been seen as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall.
• "Heat lightning" is actually lightning from a thunderstorm too far away for thunder to be heard. However, the storm may be moving in your direction so it’s best to take precaution.
• Most lightning deaths and injuries occur when people are caught outdoors in the summer months during the afternoon and evening. More people will survive a lightning strike than die from it, however they can have lasting effects from the injury.
• Lightning strike victims carry no electrical charge and should be attended to immediately.

If a Storm is Approaching

• Move to a sturdy building or car. Do not take shelter in small sheds, under isolated trees, or in convertible automobiles.
• Many houses are grounded by rods and other protection that conduct a lightning bolt's electricity harmlessly to the ground. However, water and pipes conduct electricity – so do not get in the bath or take a shower during a lightning storm.
• Lightning causes power surges, so unplug appliances and other electrical items – especially computers and televisions.
• If your only option for shelter is an automobile – get inside but don’t touch any of the metal. It’s steel frame will protect you as long as you don’t make contact with it. Tires are made of rubber – which is a conductor so will not protect you if it strikes the car.

Remember that no place outside is safe when lightning is in the area. Stay indoors until 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder. If your home or property is damaged from lightning, SERVPRO fire and storm experts can help.

Roof Tarping and Board Up Services Save Homeowners From Further Storm Damage

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Tarping can help minimize damage from storms.

SERVPRO of North Garland has handled large scale storm events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and polar vortexes in the DFW area. One of the ways we've helped home and business owners is with our roof tarping and board up services. When a storm or other emergency leaves you open to the elements, you must act quickly to help prevent further damage and protect your home’s interior.

If you experience roof damage from a storm or other emergency, SERVPRO of North Garland can help address the damage quickly to avoid further exposure to the elements. 

Our Disaster Recovery Teams can respond quickly because we have a network of storm teams strategically positioned across the country ready to respond 24/7, 365 days a year. 

Toilet Training for Business Owners

10/24/2021 (Permalink)

Know how to prevent potty problems.

If you're a business owner in North Garland, you've probably had toilet troubles. Here are 5 tips to help prevent this type of situation:

1. Certain toilets are more prone to flushing problems than others. For example, early generation low-flow models clog more often because of poorly designed flow pressure.

As a cheaper alternative to replacing models, a different brand of toilet paper that’s thinner may be worth trying. If clogs still regularly occur afterwards, it is likely more economical to replace the toilet rather than treat any water damage from the repeated toilet overflow.

2. Keep Non-Flushable Offerings Away From the Toilets

To encourage proper disposal, sanitary supplies offered in your business bathrooms should be kept away from any toilets. Complimentary items like cotton tips, diapers or tampons should instead be kept near trash cans. A clogged toilet is less likely when flushing trash becomes a hassle instead of a convenience.

3. Place Several Accessible and Regularly Emptied Waste Bins

4. A trash can that isn’t overflowing is likely to be used to throw away anything not soiled. It’s good practice to put a small bin in each toilet area to give an option to people who decide to throw something away while still maintaining privacy. It’s important that these bins are also regularly emptied to maintain them as a usable option for disposal.

5. Post Signs

A posted reminder over the toilet to use the trash may do wonders at stopping any unwanted behavior. People may not evaluate the consequences of flushing something down your pipes, so a courteous reminder of the risks will often encourage people to behave appropriately.

Regardless of your best efforts, you could still end up with sewage backup. This water is contaminated and may need the equipment and expertise of a professional water damage cleanup service. Taking steps to prevent a clogged toilet can help lessen the likelihood of damage, so you should implement changes now to protect your business from unwanted, unsanitary flooding.

When There's a Storm, Stay Informed.

10/24/2021 (Permalink)

Staying connected is important during storm emergencies.

Storms are common in North Texas, so when the moisture level and temperature combine in just the right way, we get thunder, lightning and wind. Storms cause trouble inside and outside the house. Although they are unpredictable, we can  minimize the potential damage by being prepared.

Use Technology to Track Storms

There are lots of weather tracking apps that can alert you as well as keep you updated on a storm’s progress. 

Smart phones and social media can let friends and family know how you’re doing during or after a storm hits North Garland. It’s important to keep phones charged and contact lists are up to date so you can easily reach out. Twitter is also a great tool for getting the word out - if you happen to see someone in distress, tweet their location so that first responders hear about it. This technology saved many Houstonians during tropical storm Harvey.

Both Facebook and the American Red Cross are platforms where you can update your status during a storm to let friends and family know you're ok.

Use Technology to Store Important Information

It's a good idea to save an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and information on your pets in a cloud based system as well as keeping copies in a waterproof bag as part of your emergency preparedness kit.

Try SERVPRO's Storm Readiness Technology

If you’re a business owner in North Garland, we offer a free evaluation of your workspace to help you develop an Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP) so you’re ready for anything. Our teams are always watching the weather and your ERP will keep us up to date on your business to make our assistance as efficient as possible.

Our professional equipment and technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week so call us at 972-496-2441 if you need help after a storm.

Know Where to Go

10/24/2021 (Permalink)

know where to go when a storm strikes.

Did you know that tornadoes can spin off from hurricanes? This means we have another month of potential tornadoes since hurricane season doesn't end until November.

It’s a good time to remind everyone of important safety factors when dealing with storms.

Always shelter in a room that has no windows - ideally in the center of the house. If you have space under a staircase, that is a good place to gather the family during a storm.

Don’t open windows during a tornado. It may seem intuitive, but there is a false rumor going around that open windows equalize the pressure in your house. This isn’t true. Keep windows and doors closed to avoid flying debris.  

If you are driving when a tornado warning is issued, try to get off the road and into a building as soon as possible. Do not park your car under an overpass – high winds could cause it to collapse. Do not try to outrun the tornado while driving – it is best to get out of your car in case it is picked up by the storm. If there isn’t a building to shelter in, then find a ditch far away from items that can fly through the air. Lie down as flat as you can and put your arms over your head and face.

When storms hit, make sure you watch for weather updates related to tornado activity in your area. Charge your phone and get ready to shelter in place if needed. In the unfortunate case that your home sustains damage from a storm, SERVPRO of North Garland is here to help and can be there within 1-4 hours to assess the situation and begin mitigation.

We'll Make it "Like it never even happened."

10/24/2021 (Permalink)

We have the equipment and experts to help with any disaster.

That's our mission when we are called to help with fire and water emergencies. But why choose SERVPRO of North Garland?

1. We’ve been dealing with disaster recovery for over 50 years.

2. We have the experts and equipment needed to deal with the details of restoration.

3. We're faster to the disaster.* It's our policy that within one hour from notice of loss, we will contact you to arrange for service. And within 4 hours - we will be on site to begin mitigation if necessary. 

4. We're thorough and we pretest. This allows us to determine the extent of the damage which allows us to treat only the affected area to reduce job costs, restoration expenses and disruption.

5. We can help you with an Inventory Analysis - is a detailed record of all your belongings which is conducted prior to any disaster. This reduces the time needed to build your itemized room-by-room loss inventory for insurance claims.

6. All of our records, notes and photos are kept online, facilitating faster knowledge transfer to your insurance company.  

7. We answer the phone 24/7. Emergencies don't wait for working hours - so we don't. Someone is always on call to answer the phone when you call. If they miss it, they'll call you right back.

8. We have the capability to manage both small and large losses. Whether it's a room in your home - or a multi-family unit where everyone was affected, we have the crews and equipment needed to help. 

9. While we are one of thousands of franchises, all of us are required to maintain a professional appearance in uniform, equipment, vehicles and cleaning methods. 

10. We have relationships with all major insurance providers (and many small ones too) so that we already know the requirements and approved costs associated with different types of damage.

Whether it's your home or business that's affected - SERVPRO of North Garland can make it "Like it never even happened."

Keep it Clean at Work

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

We can clean it.

SERVPRO is well known for the excellent service we provide when disaster strikes. From floods to fires, hail storms and hurricanes, we are ready at a moment’s notice to spring into action and help!

But you don’t have to wait for disaster to call us.

We know that a clean work environment is vital to success and we can help you and your tenants stay successful.

In addition to restoration services, SERVPRO of North Garland also provides deep cleaning services, which if done regularly, can save a business time and money in the long run. Having clean floors and carpets presents a more professional look and reduces allergens for clients and employees. In addition, a clean and clear HVAC system provides better air quality and reduces the potential for mold damage or pest infestations.

We are also licensed to handle biohazard cleanups according to protocols set forth by the CDC. This type of cleaning goes beyond normal janitorial services to address contaminants that could cause serious health effects. Many of our cleaning products are hospital grade and carry the EPA-approved pathogen claims recommended by the CDC to protect against corona and other viruses.

For more information on our commercial cleaning services in North Garland, please call us anytime at 972-496-2441.

Always Here to Help

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

We're always here to help.

If you’re a business owner in North Garland, we are right down the street and ready to help if disaster strikes. There are natural disasters and human disasters – both of which can cause fire, water, or mold damage. Whether the job is big or small, our team will make it "Like it never even happened," so you can get your business up and running as soon as possible. When disaster strikes, you can depend on SERVPRO of North Garland.

We aren’t just known for disaster recovery - we also provide deep cleanings that will keep your tenants happy and healthy. Regular cleanings of both your carpets/floors and air duct systems can save you time and money. Our team of professionals are specially trained in removing everything from difficult stains and bad smells to graffiti and biohazard cleanups.

We're right down the street and always here to help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

When it Comes to Water

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Garland to help you recover from a water disaster.

We know water. We’ve seen our share of houses flood, pipes burst and roofs leak and we have the equipment and experience needed to safely restore your home or business after any kind of water disaster. But there are things YOU can do before our team gets there to save you time and money:

Make sure you turn off the water source causing the flood and remove as much excess water as you can using towels and mops. Reducing the amount of water will reduce the amount of potential damage to floors and furniture. Never try to remove water with your household vacuum cleaner.

Move as many items as you can to a higher location to avoid them getting wet. Separate, clothing, rugs and furniture that are wet as the fabric dyes can bleed into one another.

Call your insurance company as soon as you can to open a claim. We work with all the major companies and will know the specific requirements you’ll need to file appropriately. Giving us a claim number when you call helps expedite the process further.

When you call SERVPRO, give us all the details of your damage – including the number of rooms affected, if the water is standing or moving, and the type of flooring you have. This will help us determine the right combination of equipment needed to mitigate the situation quickly and efficiently.

 These things will minimize potential damage and maximize potential savings. We’re ready to assist at a moment's notice with any of your water mitigation emergencies. Give our team a call at 972-496-2441.

SERVPRO in a Storm

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Garland is here to help you weather the storm.

Storm and flood damage can be devastating. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience. At SERVPRO of North Garland, we have the expertise and the resources to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. During catastrophic storms and major events, SERVPRO has a Disaster Recovery Team that responds with additional resources as well. These include:

• Flooding caused by heavy rains
• Hurricanes and tidal surges
• Tornadoes and wind damage
• Ice and snowstorms
• Wild fires

Here in North Texas, storms can occur with little warning it’s important to be prepared in order to minimize potential damage. Make sure you have an Emergency Kit readily accessible and that the family knows the safest spot in the house for shelter during severe weather. Always keep important documents in water proof containers and have a list of resources saved in your phone for easy access. Weathering a storm is never easy, and we will do our absolute best to help you recover. Call us anytime – we’re always here to help.

Be Alarmed

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

An alarm should be on each floor and in each bedroom of your home.

October is Fire Prevention Month and the perfect time to educate the family about fire safety.  One of the most important things in surviving a home fire is to have functioning alarms throughout your home.

Tragically, 3 out of 5 home fire deaths result from fires in properties without working smoke alarms.

 The US Fire Administration recommends the following:

• Have both a smoke alarm and a carbon monoxide alarm on each level of the home – and in every bedroom.
• Smoke alarms should be 10 feet away from cooking appliances to avoid “false” alarms.
• Test the alarms at least one time a month with everyone present so that they will know what the sounds mean.
• Choose interconnected alarms so when one sounds, they all sound.
• Replace alarms every 10 years.
• If you are a renter, you have a right to ask your landlord to install alarms outside each bedroom on the property.

Your family should be familiar with the sounds of the alarms and what they mean. Usually one beep indicates the battery needs replacing and 3 simultaneous beeps means smoke has been detected. When you hear a smoke alarm, you may have less than 2 minutes to get everyone outside and safe.

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, we stand on over 50 years of experience and expertise to help ensure you stay safe, informed, and ready for any disaster that comes your way. The time to prepare is now. SERVPRO North Garland is ready to help at any time.

The Business of Fire Prevention

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Workplace fires are more common than yo think. Know the risks.

October is Fire Prevention Month and it’s important to be educated about the risks of fire in your home AND in your workplace. Commercial fires are more common than you may think so being prepared will aid in taking the appropriate precautions to prevent damage to your worksite.

The most common causes of commercial fires include:

• Cooking Equipment – any business that serves food (or has a kitchen for employees to prepare food) is at risk for fire. Always have a fire extinguisher near any cooking equipment, no matter how big or small.
• Heating Equipment – if the heating system overheats it can lead to fire. Proper maintenance is especially important for businesses to avoid possible fires.
• Electrical and Lighting Issues – with wires behind the walls, it’s not easy to know if something needs replacing. Like the HVAC system in an office building or restaurant – proper upkeep is the best way to prevent fire.
• Smoking Materials – the rate of fires caused by smoking materials has decreased significantly, however candles also fall into this category so it’s essential to know the rules and never leave a lit candle unattended.
• Intentional – it’s unfortunate, but there are fires that are intentionally started by people. Not all intentional fires are considered Arson because the fire starter has to have malicious intent for this categorization. Even if the intent isn’t criminal, starting a fire intentionally puts everyone at risk.

If you're a commercial property owner dealing with fire damage, SERVPRO of North Garland can help with recovery. Our experts will save whatever can be saved and make your workplace feel "Like it never even happened."

What Do I Do Now?

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Call the experts to help you recover from fire, water and mold damage.

When disaster strikes the biggest and most overwhelming question we are left with is “What do I do now?”

Let SERVPRO of North Garland take on the burden of figuring out next steps. Once you contact us, you will be met with caring professionals who are eager to lessen the stress that a natural or human disaster can bring. Because we understand the need for immediate relief, we offer time sensitive consultations where our crew can get a good idea of the extent of damage done, as well we what will be required to begin mitigation.

For over 20 years, we have helped the community of North Garland recover from storms, fires, bio-hazardous situations and all kinds of water damages. Our highly trained employees are certified experts in all realms of the restoration world and our services span from water and fire restoration to vandalism cleanups to mold recovery. We are ready, at a moment’s notice, to help the North Garland community with

• Fire, smoke & soot removal
• Reconstruction & general contracting services
• Water and mold removal
• Dehumidification
• Catastrophic storm responses
• Restoring contents and documents after damage
• Air duct and HVAC cleaning
• Deep cleaning & deodorization

For the last 20 years, the next 20 and beyond, SERVPRO of North Garland is here to help with any disaster recovery - big or small. Whether for a home or a business, consultation or emergency, call us anytime at (972) 496-2441.

5 Hazards that are Rare, but True.

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Fire is destructive no matter the cause. Read about 5 rare, but real hazards.

Everyone knows that house fires can be caused by leaving things unattended on the stove, candles, smoking, lint accumulation in the dryer and outdoor grills that get out of control.

But there are also other, more bizarre ways that fires have started in homes – here are 5 that we’ve seen in our experience:

1 – Recalled Appliances – take a look at the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website (www.cpsc.gov/Recalls) to make sure your microwave or computer battery hasn’t been recalled.

2 – Excess Sawdust – if you’re a DIYer, then you may have sawdust on your work surfaces. Make sure to clean workspaces with a vacuum designed to collect combustible materials to avoid accumulating dust which is flammable.

3 – Non-Dairy Coffee Creamer – ok, we told you these were rare, but there are foods that are highly flammable, including the powdered creamer you may use in your coffee. Make certain you never spill this near an open flame to avoid a disaster during breakfast.

4 – 9-Volt Batteries – all batteries should be disposed of safely, but especially the 9-Volts. These have been known to spark when in contact with metal while in a trash can or junk drawer.

5 – Linseed Oil – if you use this to polish your butcher block countertops or other wood furnishings, make sure you wash the rag immediately after use as they can spontaneously combust.

Fire is destructive whether caused by a common or rare situation. Please exercise caution and know your risks. Proper fire safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Weather Ready or Not?

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Be "weather-ready" to minimize storm damages.

At SERVPRO of North Garland, we are always watching the weather and preparing to help in the event of water or fire damage. We do this in order to be ready should someone have storm-related damages. How often do you watch the weather so you can stay ahead of the storm?

Being “weather-ready” is the first step to effective preparedness. It allows you to respond efficiently in the event of a storm emergency. This involves communication and activation before, during and after any storm situation.

Communication:

1 – Before a storm, make sure your family has a plan to deal with these kinds of emergencies.

2 – During a storm, keep a close eye on news sources for real time updates and developing threats.

3 – After a storm, let family and friends know your status.

Activation:

1 – Before a storm, create a “Storm Emergency Kit” and keep it somewhere you can access it quickly if needed. Also keep important documents in waterproof containers.

2 – During a storm, make sure you, your family and pets are located in the safest possible spot in your home to shelter.

3 – After a storm avoid any electrical wires and make sure it is safe to leave before exiting the home.

Remember that having a plan – and then activating it are the most effective ways to be weather-ready in North Garland, where storms can come whether we are ready or not.

When the Toilet Turns Against You

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Toilet water damage is disruptive and disgusting.

Nobody wants to have to deal with a water damage in their home or business, but this is especially true when that water damage is a result of a toilet backing up.

If this happens to you - and you find yourself dealing with water damage - here is what to do.

First - turn the water off and avoid the contaminated area as much as possible to prevent sewage from being tracked into any other rooms.

Then, call your insurance agent to file a claim - and then call us to assess the extent of the damage and make it "Like it never even happened."

Once our team is on site, we will remove anything that may have been contaminated by the toilet water, including flooring, drywall, and ceilings.

After all infected materials have been removed, our professionals will do a thorough disinfection. Once things are clean, we will put in dehumidifiers and fans to remove any excess water that remains.

If you experience a water damage at your home, especially those that are created by a toilet or sewage backup call SERVPRO of North Garland anytime at 972-496-2441.     

It’s Summer – Try to Stay Cool

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Summer heat can cause damage to humans and houses.

It’s summertime in North Garland! That means it’s H-O-T. On top of being a concern for people’s safety, heat can also cause damage to your home – especially if you live in a more urban development without distance and trees to provide some relief from the sun. We’ve got some tips to keep both humans and their homes protected from extreme heat.

• Stay inside on those super-hot days. Make sure your pets are also indoors – and that you are all hydrated. If you have to go outside - then loose-fitting, light-colored clothes are best, make sure to wear sunscreen and keep a water bottle nearby. If you’re at outdoor sporting events, an umbrella can also help block the hot sun.
• If you are going to exercise outside – leave a wet bandana in the freezer overnight and wear it around your neck when out in the sun to help keep your temperature from rising too quickly. Heat exhaustion is no joke – and can lead to heat stroke which is life threatening.
• When things get hot, they expand – and this includes hardwood flooring, doorframes, shingles, rafters and joists. This can cause doors to stick, sealant to stretch and shingles to crack. To decrease the impact of summer heat on your roof, you can install an attic fan, additional insulation or even ridge vents to help keep it cooler. We can’t say it enough but regular maintenance is key to avoiding damage in your home.
• Excessive temperatures can also crack the paint on your door and/or home. Look for bubbling, chipping, and flaking paint after a stretch of 100+ degree days. There are special types of paints and finishes that can offer some protection from our Texas temps.
• If you have a refrigerator in the garage, the compressor will work extra hard to keep its contents cold. Compressors get very hot when they run constantly and could become a fire hazard. Make sure there isn’t trash or anything flammable near your garage fridge and consider using a portable fan to reduce temperatures.
• Cars parked in direct sunlight will heat up considerably and items inside can melt or even explode in some cases. Never keep an aerosol can in the car and avoid leaving cell phones, cameras or other small electronics in the car when you are not driving. Remember that the door handles, seat belt buckles and any metal surface will also get hot when in the sunlight. Using a sun-shade or parking undercover will help reduce the effects of heat on your automobile.

Stay safe and cool this summer – and remember you can call SERVPRO of North Garland if you experience fire or water damage in your home. Call us anytime at 972-496-2441.

If These Walls Could Talk

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

Watch for signs of water damage in your walls.

It would be a lot easier to know when you’ve got a leak in the wall of your home if the walls could actually talk. But since they can’t, it pays to know what to look for when it comes to water damage in your walls. Leaks can come from poor caulking, a leaky pipe or from holes in the roof and often you won’t see a sign until the damage has been done.

Stains, Smells & Seams

If you see a water stain or any sort of discoloration in the walls or ceiling – you’ve got a leak. Stains start small and are easily missed if the wall is painted or if there is furniture covering that section of the wall. Check carefully around doorframes and windows as well as in near appliances that use water such as a dishwasher, ice machine or even the hot water heater in your home.

If you start to smell something musty – it could be mold or mildew due to water damage behind the walls or cabinets. Make sure to check both sides of the walls – and if one side is externally facing – make sure to check outside sources for a water leak.

Another sign of water in the walls is actually on the floor! Water can drip behind the walls and cause floor damage at the seams.  If you notice a texture change in your floors, such as buckling or cupping, it’s a good idea to call a professional for help uncovering the source of the leak.

At SERVPRO of North Garland, we know the signs and can assess any water damage quickly and effectively. We will dry the affected area and can also do any reconstruction necessary.  

Don't Forget the Foundation

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

Don't forget the foundation!

We’re heading into another few days of Rain here in North Garland - after 2 winter storms and a tornado sighting in the area. That is a lot of water – and with water comes the potential for damage.

We know that regularly inspecting the roof and keeping gutters clean are important for avoiding leaks in the ceiling and walls of your home. Did you know it’s just as important to keep rainwater away from your home’s foundation?

If you notice pooling near the foundation, there are a few things you can check and correct:

1 – Check the gutters again. Even clean ones might be too short or improperly angled so water isn’t draining away from your house.

2 – Check the grading of the soil near the foundation.

It should slope away – and if it doesn’t, you will need to add dense soil to create the proper grading (clay soil is best.)

3 – Correct it with a French drain around the foundation. To do this, dig a trench with a 3-5% downslope, line it with plastic and place a drain with perforations in it to pull the water away.

4 – Correct any cracks in the driveway. If your driveway is connected to the house, make sure there aren’t cracks or holes where water can seep underneath when it rains.

5 – Correct the drainage on either side of your house. Make sure your neighbors aren’t inadvertently sending water your way. They may need their own French drain or you may need to build a retaining wall between your properties to keep water from rolling into your yard.

 Rain is good for the earth – but not for your foundation so make sure to keep your eye out for pesky puddles after our next storm.

Proud to be Purpose Driven

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

We are one team driven by a common purpose.

One of the reasons we chose to become SERVPRO franchise owners is because the company has an established purpose that aligns with our personal approach to doing business. Countless business publications and studies have proven that purpose driven companies have greater success in building customer and employee loyalty.

The SERVPRO™ Purpose is “To Help Entrepreneurs Succeed.” At SERVPRO of North Garland we believe everyone we do business with is an “entrepreneur”- so we strive to ensure success across the board.

• We want our customer entrepreneurs to feel taken care of so that they can get back to their life and not worry about the details of their damage restoration.
• We want our employee entrepreneurs to feel they have a career that provides growth opportunities through training and advancement.
• We want our community entrepreneurs to feel supported through local and national sponsorships and volunteering.

Our success is driven by our customers’ success – nothing means more to us than making a difference for those in need. It is our purpose and how we run our company.

 - Alison & Juan, Owners

Tackling Things as a Team

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO teams working together to handle widespread damage from ice and snow in North Garland.

Our team at SERVPRO of North Garland has been working around the clock, answering calls and working toward appointments for thousands of customers across DFW. 

One of the great things about SERVPRO as a company is the support we receive from headquarters when things are overwhelming. As of last Sunday, our corporate office activated the SERVPRO Storm Response - which is when unaffected franchises send staff and equipment to help in markets that need additional support. 

To date, we've had over 50 franchises outside of DFW join forces with the local franchises to expand our combined abilities to help people in our communities.

We are thankful to serve the North Garland community and we are thankful that our corporate community serves us.

Bye Bye - Bio Hazards

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Safety is Priority #1 When Dealing With Biohazards.

There have always been hazardous biological agents associated with fire and mold damage, and more recently there has been the need for deep anti-viral cleaning services to combat the spread of Coronavirus. As the needs change, so has SERVPRO of North Garland so we are prepared to handle any Bio Recovery situation. This expertise differentiates us from many disaster recovery competitors.

We have Certified Bio Recovery Technicians (CBRTs) on our staff, who have been specially trained in the cleanup of biohazardous agents such as blood and other infectious matter.

Our first step is to disinfect what can be salvaged, removing potentially harmful substances. The team will then collect any materials that can’t be completely disinfected (such as carpet since it is particularly porous) in order to dispose of them properly and avoid cross-contamination.

We have specialized equipment, personal protection equipment and solvents that empower our team to manage any biohazard situations as quickly and safely as possible.

Like all disasters, Bio Hazards are extremely unfortunate and have to be handled with careful detail for complete recovery. Your team at SERVPRO of North Garland is ready to help if needed. Call us anytime at 972-496-2441.

Looking for Leaks Can Save Money

1/31/2021 (Permalink)

Look for leaks to save money.

Winter months are a great time to do a leak check in your home since most people don’t use as much water in colder months. According to the EPA, a typical family of 4 doesn’t use more than 12K gallons in a winter month. If your bill shows higher use – it’s probably a good idea to look for leaks.

Another way to know if you have a water leak is to watch your water meter before and after a 2 hour time period when you know you didn’t use any water. If it indicates that you did – then something is leaking somewhere.

These are the most common causes of water leaks in a residential home: 

• Dishwashers
• Washing Machines
• Hot Water Heaters
• Ice Machines
• Outdoor Faucets
• Indoor Shower Heads and Faucets

If you do find a leak, it can often be fixed by tightening a valve, cleaning a drain or replacing a washer depending on the item that is leaking. There are many tutorials that you can watch to guide you through a simple fix like one of these. If you complete the DIY leak repairs but still find water – then call SERVPRO of North Garland to come inspect the damage. Often our technicians can diagnose where the leak originated while working on site.

If you have any concerns about potential water leaks and subsequent damage, call us at 972-496-2441.

Happy New Year Neighbor!

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Garland wishes all of our neighbors a great 2021 and offers 5 maintenance must-dos.

We’re nearly a month into 2021 and the start of the year is the perfect time to give your home or office an in-depth overview to assess any potential risks and prepare for the year ahead.

Accidents happen and SERVPRO of North Garland is here to help our neighbors recover from any size disaster. But being a good neighbor also means sharing information – so here are 5 maintenance must-dos to kick of the new year.

1. Give your gutters a good onceover to make sure they are clean since clogs can trap moisture and lead to leaks.
2. Test smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers to make sure they are working. Now is a great time to develop a Family Escape Plan as well -https://www.SERVPROnorthgarland.com/blog/fire-smoke-damage-restoration#247395
3. Prevent leaks and odors by cleaning the garbage disposal – grind several ice cubes, then flush with hot water and baking soda.
4. Inspect the roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and leaks.
5. Call us to get a free Emergency Readiness Assessment for your home or office. Our experts will check for concerns and help build a resource plan for managing potential emergencies.

Your neighborhood restoration experts are here if you need us – call SERVPRO of North Garland at (972) 496-2441,

Prepare the Trees Please

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Proper care of trees will help prevent storm damage.

We love our trees in Texas – they provide much needed shade in the summers. But those same trees in a storm can become dangerous. High winds and lightning cause broken branches, splintered tree trunks and even the complete uprooting of a tree – which can cause significant damage to you, or your neighbor’s, property.

Like most things, maintenance is key to keeping them healthy and flourishing. Proper upkeep will prepare your trees to weather the storm – literally. Watering and fertilizing are important, but regular pruning can shape your trees in becoming more resistant to storms and weather damage.

Improper pruning can cause damage so if you aren’t comfortable doing this yourself, it’s best to leave it to the experts. In general, the National Arbor Day Foundation recommends these tips for pruning and care:

• Keep branch angles at 10 o’clock or 2 o’clock. Narrower angles between 2 branches can become a weak point.
• The center of gravity for a tree should be over the trunk. Remove branches on the leaning side and encourage branch growth on the opposite side to ensure a stable center of gravity.
• Don't cut branches back to stubs. Long, natural limbs on a tree are strong and can withstand storm-like conditions. If a branch needs to be removed, cut it back to the main branch or to the tree's trunk. Do remove any temporary branches such as rubbing branches, suckers and water-sprouts.
• Conduct tree trimmings when it’s best for the type of tree. Some trees need to be pruned in a specific season to avoid pests and disease. As we head into winter, make sure your oak-trees get trimmed so they don’t end up with oak wit. Other types of trees that should be pruned in winter include apple, cedar, Douglas fir and spruce trees.

In general, trees that are healthy endure storms way better than the rest. If you don’t want your trees to end up deteriorating due to extreme weather conditions, then be a responsible tree owner—provide the plants with proper watering, regular and corrective pruning and nutrients.

Lessons on Lightning

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Lightning is unpredictable, so know your facts to stay safe.

If you can hear thunder then you’re close enough to be struck by lightning – so understanding the facts will help you stay safe in a storm.

• Lightning is highly unpredictable which increases the risk to people and property.
• Rain isn’t required for lightning to occur – it’s been seen as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall.
• "Heat lightning" is actually lightning from a thunderstorm too far away for thunder to be heard. However, the storm may be moving in your direction so it’s best to take precaution.
• Most lightning deaths and injuries occur when people are caught outdoors in the summer months during the afternoon and evening. More people will survive a lightning strike than die from it, however they can have lasting effects from the injury.
• Lightning strike victims carry no electrical charge and should be attended to immediately.

If a Storm is Approaching

• Move to a sturdy building or car. Do not take shelter in small sheds, under isolated trees, or in convertible automobiles.
• Many houses are grounded by rods and other protection that conduct a lightning bolt's electricity harmlessly to the ground. However, water and pipes conduct electricity – so do not get in the bath or take a shower during a lightning storm.
• Lightning causes power surges, so unplug appliances and other electrical items – especially computers and televisions.
• If your only option for shelter is an automobile – get inside but don’t touch any of the metal. It’s steel frame will protect you as long as you don’t make contact with it. Tires are made of rubber – which is a conductor so will not protect you if it strikes the car.

Remember that no place outside is safe when lightning is in the area. Stay indoors until 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder. If your home or property is damaged from lightning, SERVPRO fire and storm experts can help.

Get the Most From Your Commercial Real Estate Investment

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Maximize Your Return Through Maintenance and More

While buying a property at the right price is critical, what you do with it after the purchase is often more important. Good property management leads to good return on the investment. Here ae 5 tips to keep in mind as a commercial property owner:

Happy Tenants
It can be difficult and expensive to find new tenants so the best way to maintain your income is to keep the ones you have. This involves regular communication, anticipating tenant needs and being proactive. One of the things tenants care most about is the cleanliness of their workspace. When you use SERVPRO to clean your facility, we can provide you with a badge and collateral to let tenants know it’s SERVPRO Certified.

Excellent Maintenance

You know that tenants will pay more for properties that look good and are well kept. Properties are designated as Class A, B, or C based on their condition and Class A facilities have higher rent and lower turnover. For a large commercial property, the list of things that need to be regularly maintained is extensive. SERVPRO offers HVAC maintenance, janitorial services and deep cleanings that eliminate bio-hazards.

Lovely Landscaping
The outdoor vibe is just as important as the indoor one. Beautiful (and smart) landscaping provides additional areas for tenants to meet, eat or have some downtime during breaks. Protect your outdoor investment by clustering wind-resistant trees and plants, maintaining the correct proximity to building structures and consistent watering and pruning.

Sustainability

Younger tenants are particularly drawn to sustainable buildings. You can offer site-wide recycling or composting services, relamp existing lights with energy efficient bulbs and upgrade the HVAC system. All of these things will save you money and the headache of finding new tenants.

Safety

Keep your tenants safe with well-lit external areas, monitored entrances and the presence of security guards in common areas. Keep your building safe with an emergency readiness plan. SERVPRO offers a free assessment to help build a plan that will minimize downtime and damage from storms or other disasters.

Owning commercial real estate can be a tremendously rewarding investment with active management and participation. Following the steps above will help ensure a high return and highly satisfied tenants.

Deep Fried Turkey – Delicious, but Dangerous

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Be Safe When Deep Frying a Turkey

There’s no question that fried turkey tastes great, but there are many dangers associated with using a deep fryer. It’s actually pretty easy for these to catch fire so make sure to follow these safety tips if you choose to cook this way:

• Don’t Overfill the Cooking Pot – even a small amount of oil can catch flame if it comes into contact with a burner. If the pot is too full, oil can spill when you insert the turkey. The U.S. Fire Administration suggests that you first place the turkey in a pot with water so you will know the correct amount of oil.
• Don’t Leave a Fryer Unattended – deep fryers may not have thermostat controls and can overheat to the point of combustion. It’s crucial to stay close and to check the temperature of the oil often. Deep Fat Fryers are also easy to tip over – so make sure the area is secure and monitored. Never use a fryer inside – these should always be used outdoors on a solid surface (not a deck or under a patio cover.)
• Make Sure to Thaw Completely - never drop a frozen turkey into a hot fryer. You can find hundreds of YouTube videos showing what can happen if you don’t properly thaw your turkey prior to deep frying. This happens when a frozen turkey reacts with high temperature oil causing a lot of steam which then forces the oil to boil over and catch fire. Flames can shoot up as high as 10 feet if it’s not handled the right way.
• Have the Right Tools - make sure you have a fire extinguisher and well-insulated potholders nearby since the lid, sides and handles get insanely hot and you could end up with harsh burns if not careful.
• Keep Others Safe - never let children or pets near the fryer when in use or after use as the oil can remain hot for hours.

SERVPRO of North Garland urges you to follow these safety recommendations for a safe and successful turkey frying experience. A cooking fire can be devastating, causing injury as well as serious damage to your home or property. If an accident does happen, you can always call the experts at SERVPRO of North Garland. We'll be there to help get you back to normal 24/7, 365 days a year.

Why SERVPRO When Disaster Strikes

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help

We’ve been dealing with disaster recovery for over 50 years and have the experts and equipment needed to restore things “Like it never even happened.” Here are several reasons why we should be your first call after a disaster.

1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines - Quick and accurate response can minimize loss expenses from secondary damages.

• Within one hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals will contact you to arrange for service.
• Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO of North Garland Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services (if necessary).
• Within 8 business hours, a verbal briefing of the scope of work will be communicated to the property manager or point of contact by a SERVPRO of North Garland Professional.

Pretesting - Through pretesting, we determine the extent of the damage which allows us to treat only the affected area to reduce job costs, restoration expenses and disruption.

Inventory Analysis - The Inventory Analysis is a detailed record of all your belongings which is conducted prior to any disaster. This reduces the time needed to build your itemized room-by-room loss inventory for insurance claims.

Electronic File Documentation Complete with Loss Reports - Online access is available to all files, information and proof of results, allowing the information to be easily transferrable to various parties involved.

24/7 Call Center - Prompt work order handling and dispatch don’t have to wait for daylight. Utilizing SERVPRO’s 24/7 Call Center, emergency services can begin as soon as possible, helping minimize additional loss, downtime and expense.

Large Loss Capabilities – Catastrophic Loss Response Team - With hundreds of trained crews manned with thousands of pieces of commercial equipment and service vehicles, SERVPRO’s Large Loss Response Teams can initiate response to any sized loss in any part of the country within hours.

Professional Reassurance and Consistency - As leaders in cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals strive to maintain a professional appearance in uniform, equipment, vehicles and cleaning methods to help convey “Green means clean!”

National Accounts Guidelines (for National Accounts Insurance Clients) - To assure to our clients they will receive consistent, professional service and performance across the country, the National Accounts Guidelines require completed job files, detailed communication and much more from SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals.

More than 1,700 Franchises located in North America - SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals are nearby, ready to respond quickly. The faster restoration begins, the quicker our customers can return to business.

We Know Smoke & Soot

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Cause Damage Too.

Fire damage is caused by flames, but also by the resulting smoke and soot which cause both visible and hidden damage far beyond the area of the original fire. There are different types of smoke & soot damage and understanding the properties of each help identify and remediate appropriately. These include dry or wet smoke, synthetic substances, protein material, petroleum or natural substances and the restoration process depends on the cause.

Dry vs Wet Smoke:

High-heat, fast-burning fires fueled by wood and paper typically produce dry smoke, resulting in a residue of fine power on the surface of things. While it can be simpler to clean (just wipe it off) it can also get into cracks and porous surfaces, leaving an odor which is more difficult to remove.

Wet smoke damage typically comes from low-heat, slow-burning fires – often from plastic or rubber items. It is thick and black and leaves behind a sticky residue with a strong odor. It smears easily which makes it more difficult to clean.

 Synthetic Substances:

As synthetic materials burn, they create a thick billowy black smoke that rises quickly and clings to everything, leaving a smudged-looking residue. This can cause a bigger mess if not cleaned properly using a vacuum and dry-chemical sponge cleaning.

Protein Residue:

When a fire consumes a protein source (such as meats or beans), it will leave behind a yellowish-brown residue resembling grease smears (think of the inside of your oven, the cooking grate on your grill, or a dirty pan after cooking meat). Since this residue is extra greasy, it’s extra difficult to clean. The best way to tackle this mess is with proper professional fire cleaning chemicals specifically for protein-based residue.

Petroleum Smoke:

Petroleum smoke comes from burning oil or oil-based substances. It is dark and will discolor anything it touches. This smoke can ruin upholstery and flooring if not taken care of quickly.

Since each type is a little different, each one requires a tailored solution for cleanup. Our fire experts know what to look for and how best to handle the many different conditions associated with smoke and soot.

Why Call Us for Mold Issues?

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Garland is licensed to properly manage mold remediation and restoration.

Mold damage in the US cost homeowners approximately 73 billion dollars a year. Mold eats away at carpet, drywall, wall studs, ceiling tiles and other porous building materials. If not addressed properly it can lead to walls collapsing or floors caving in. It's also toxic, and will require proper removal and remediation. SERVPRO of North Garland is a licensed expert when it comes to mold. Our process includes a thorough inspection and damage assessment. Remediation then starts with containment to avoid further spread. We will seal off the room(s), disable HVAC systems and if necessary, bring in negative air chambers.

Our HEPA vacuums are powerful “air scrubbers” that filter the air and remove the mold spores. We use antifungal and antimicrobial cleaners and always dispose of materials properly. 

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, carpets and other building materials may need to be replaced. 

SERVPRO can also handle the restoration and rebuild. We are the trusted partner for many insurance companies and will help you navigate the  claim process. Our goal is to leave your home feeling "Like it never even happened."

Dos and Don’ts when it Comes to Water Damage

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

We have the equipment and expertise to help restore your home after water damage.

Garland has seen its share of pipes burst, roofs leak and houses flood, so SERVPRO of North Garland knows exactly what to do if, and when, it happens to you. Our team of professionals has the right tools and equipment to safely dry out your home or business and the contents within it.

There are also things YOU can do before our team gets there to save you time and money – here are some things to keep in mind:

DO

• If pipes have burst, make sure to turn off the water source to prevent more flooding.
• Remove as much excess water as possible, sopping it up with towels or mopping to minimize damage to furniture.
• Safely turn off electricity and if you can’t – wait outside until you know it is safe.  
• Make sure the damage is not sewer related. This requires different protocols for cleanup.

 DON'T

• Enter, or stay in a room with standing water since there could be a risk of electrical shock. 
• Leave rugs and furniture upholstery wet against one another because the fabrics have the potential to bleed between each other. 
• Use your vacuum to try and remove water.
• Walk through moving water - even six inches of moving water can cause a fall.

These dos and don’ts will minimize potential damage and you’ll be ready when our team arrives. Water damage should be professionally assessed and remedied to avoid further damage from mold.

Our Team at SERVPRO of North Garland is ready to assist at a moment's notice with any of your water emergencies. Give our team a call at 972-496-2441.

Keep Your Air Ducts Clean

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO North Garland is Here to Help.

One of the most important maintenance tasks for property managers is keeping the HVAC system clean. Ducts run throughout the building and can affect all of your tenants. These days it is more important than ever to make sure the air is clean to prevent spreading any allergens, mold spores, bacteria or microbes. Property Managers that keep up with regular cleanings have the best (and healthiest) office spaces for lease.

If you have a business in North Garland, consider using your local SERVPRO to manage ongoing HVAC system cleanings. We have the most up to date technology and cleaning methods to remove dirt, dust, bacteria lint, mold, and mildew from your ducts, increasing the air quality in your building. Our SERVPRO Certified cleaning process is based on recommendations from the CDC for maximum protection – which is especially important as we try to prevent the spread of COVID. Schedule your cleanings and let your tenants know you’re taking extra precautions with the HVAC system. Regular cleanings will also keep your system more effective and efficient to save you money.

And while we’re on site, we’re happy to do a free Emergency Readiness Profile ® for you so you know that you’ll be prepared if we get storms in North Garland. We’re here to help – call us at 972-496-2441 and one of our experts will be happy to help.

Be Ready for Texas Storms

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

Families in North Garland Can Be Prepared

Does your family have an emergency kit ready to go in case of sudden storms? SERVPRO North Garland has gathered information and tips for creating one that will keep you and your family safe in a storm.

Your kit should have enough supplies to last at least 72 hours. The Red Cross recommends storing items in a backpack or an easy to carry container. It should also be in a known location and easily accessible.

Things to include in your kit:

• Water (at least one gallon per person, per day)
• Non-perishable foods such as crackers, peanut butter and other shelf stable items that don't require cooking.
• Battery-powered or hand-powered radio and extra batteries
• At least 1 high-powered flashlight
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Dust masks
• Cellphone with charger and/or solar charger 
• Baby wipes, garbage bags, and twist ties (for sanitation)
• Blankets or sleeping bags for each person in the family.
• Cash (in small bills)
• A first aid kit and any medications that your family needs as well as over the counter meds such as pain relievers or stomach aids.
• A complete change of seasonally appropriate clothing for every member of your family
• Personal care items for each member of your family (toothbrushes, toothpaste, wipes, deodorant, diapers, feminine hygiene items)
• Pet food, leash and supplies

While not necessary for survival, it’s also good to have these items on hand:

• Plastic sheeting and duct tape, or emergency tents
• Trash bags
• A camping stove for cooking
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities and a multi-tool (such as a Leatherman)
• Copies of essential documents, such as birth certificates, IDs, wills, health insurance cards, immunization records, all stored in a sealed Ziploc bag
• A list of emergency numbers, including family contacts (keep in mind your cell phone might run out of batteries or be damaged during an emergency)
• An emergency medical book if medical help is unavailable or delayed. One good option is “The Survival Medicine Handbook.”

And since the spring of 2020, the CDC has also recommended people include items in their kits to help prevent the spread of coronavirus or the flu, such as cloth face coverings, soap, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes.

There are ready made kits that can be purchased, but it’s much more affordable to assemble it yourself. This allows you to pack supplies tailored to your family’s unique situation and needs. If there are kids in the house, get them involved and let them pick out their own clothes or food items to carry in their kid-sized backpacks.

Preparing for emergencies can be scary, but knowing you’ll be ready for anything is equally, if not more, empowering.

 For more information about what you can do to prepare for, or recover from storms in North Garland, call us at 972-496-2441.

SERVPRO Commercial Services

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - A Higher Standard of Clean

Recently, a national survey showed nearly 90% of consumers are concerned about returning to the office, 40% of which say “cleanliness” is their top concern. Even without a pandemic, having a clean work environment is vital to the success of any business. SERVPRO of North Garland has the expertise and equipment to help you keep your commercial properties at their cleanest.

SERVPRO of North Garland recommends regular deep cleaning of carpets and floors as well as air ducts to remove pests, allergens and other potentially harmful substances that accumulate over time. We are also licensed to handle hazardous cleanups such as certain chemical spills, sewer-related damages or issues resulting from biomedical waste.

And, should you find your office dealing with a COVID+ tenant or employee, our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned service is a comprehensive cleaning program that goes far beyond traditional janitorial services. Designed from protocols and practices suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it incorporates Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered professional cleaning and disinfecting products to remove viral pathogens like the Coronavirus.

With over 50 years of commercial restoration experience, SERVPRO of North Garland is ready to assist with your cleaning needs. For more information on our services please call us anytime at 972-496-2441.

Create a Fire Escape Plan

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Create Your Fire Escape Plan

October is Fire Prevention Month and a good time to set the family’s emergency preparedness plans. If you don’t have a plan in place, here are some steps you can take to ensure everyone in the household knows what to do.

First, make sure you have smoke alarms – and that they are all in good working order. If there are kids in the house, you can press the test button so that they can hear what it sounds like. Ideally there is an alarm in each sleeping room as well as one in each hallway.  

Draw an outline of your home and indicate the escape routes for each room. Then walk each room and practice the exits. Your plan should include a meeting place outside of the house as well so that it’s easy to account for everyone.

If there are small children or other family members with mobility limitations, assign someone to assist them during drills and in the event of an emergency. It’s not a bad idea to have a backup person as well if the designee isn’t home during the emergency.

Homes with 2 or more floors should invest in escape ladders; practice using them and make sure they are easily accessible near the designated escape windows.

You should always choose the safest exit, but know what to do if you do have to go through a room with smoke and fire in it. Remember to cover your mouth and nose and get low to the ground.

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, we stand on over 50 years of experience and expertise to help ensure you stay safe, informed, and ready for any disaster that comes your way. The time to prepare is now. SERVPRO of North Garland is ready to help at any time.

To download a sample plan, visit the National Fire Prevention Association here.

Hear from Real SERVPRO of North Garland Customers

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Happy Customers make SERVPRO of North Garland Happy!!

Dealing with property damage is extremely stressful, and SERVPRO of North Garland wants to help reduce as much of that stress as we can. The customer is top of mind in every job and we strive to make the process as easy and painless as possible.

But, don’t let us put words in other people’s referrals – read for yourself why SERVPRO of North Garland is an excellent partner when it comes to dealing with water, fire and mold damage.

McKnight Property Management Says...

“When disaster strikes, tenants get upset and fearful. A major tenant who houses within 20,500 sf was affected by thick smoke after a fire erupted on the premises. Within a very short time, SERVPRO representative John Stalsworth was on site to assess the damages and soon had the necessary equipment delivered to the building.

The tenant was able to keep operations going and lost no productivity. John’s knowledge and professionalism saved the day! To have an emergency as this happen and end up with a happy tenant through the troubled times and after is amazing. The process from start to finish was seamless. I highly recommend SERVPRO as your go to contact for disaster.”

Buckingham Methodist Church Says...

"SERVPRO was professional, timely, and met all our expectations. I have been involved with 8 church projects for construction, repair, and cleanup. SERVPRO was the best."

Customer Kurt G. Says...

"I found SERVPRO to be an excellent company when we discovered some recent water damage and needed some mold remediation. They were very thorough and efficient in their work, and they kept me informed of what they were doing and the progress of the project. They were great to work with and I would strongly recommend this company."

Halloween Safety Tips for North Garland

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO North Garland and the National Fire Protection Association Have Tips for a Fire Safe Halloween

October brings pumpkin flavored everything, fall décor and of course – candy! Halloween traditions like decorative haystacks, paper ghosts, glowing jack-o-lanterns and flowing costumes can unfortunately, also be fire risks. There is good news though – all of these are easily controlled with the following safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o-lanterns.
• When choosing costumes, stay away from long trailing fabric.
• Teach children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them.
• Dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper catch fire easily. Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters
• Provide children with flashlights to carry for lighting or glow sticks as part of their costume. 
• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes. Make sure all smoke alarms are working.

At SERVPRO of North Garland, we wish you and your families a safe and happy Halloween! Remember that if anything scary happens we are here around the clock to help. Give us a call at  972-476-2441.

What Storm Season Means for SERVPRO of North Garland

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Garland is in Gulf Shores, Alabama working after Hurricane Sally made landfall.

Hurricane season started June 1^st and doesn’t end until November 30^th.  So far, 2020 has been one of the most active seasons in history with 25 storms as of October 5^th. With nearly 2 months to go, we’re on track to overtake the current record which was 27 storms in 2005. The Weather Channel says it’s even possible we will see more than 30 storms in 2020.  

In an active season like the one we are having, it’s not uncommon for other SERVPRO teams to travel to a storm site and help with recovery efforts. Our North Garland team has been on the road since Hurricane Sally and is now bracing for Hurricane Delta to hit Florida and Louisiana later this week. They have been working around the clock to help businesses and residents deal with storm-related water and mold damage.  

It’s this work ethic that makes SERVPRO such a valuable resource in tough times. If you’re dealing with any sort of damage from water, fire or mold – we are ready to assist you. Just call us at 972-496-2441 and one of our experts will be happy to help.

SERVPRO of North Garland Can Help Improve Your Working Conditions.

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Garland is here to help!

SERVPRO is well known for the excellent service we provide when disaster strikes. From floods to fires, hail storms and hurricanes, we are ready at a moment’s notice to spring into action and help!

We’re also here to keep your business running smoothly in blue skies.  A clean work environment is vital to success and SERVPRO provides deep cleaning services, which if done regularly, can save a business time and money in the long run. Having clean floors and carpets presents a more professional look and reduces allergens for clients and employees. In addition, a clean and clear HVAC system provides better air quality and reduces the potential for mold damage or pest infestations.

We are also licensed to handle biohazard cleanups according to protocols set forth by the CDC. This type of cleaning goes beyond normal janitorial services to address contaminants that could cause serious illness. Many of our cleaning products are hospital grade and carry the EPA-approved pathogen claims recommended by the CDC to protect against corona and other viruses.

For more information on our commercial cleaning services in North Garland, please call us anytime at 972-496-2441.

How Trees Can Cause Foundation Damage in North Garland Homes

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

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Summary: SERVPRO of North Garland highlights how trees and shrubs growing next to a home can cause foundation problems leading to water damage.

• SERVPRO of North Garland alerts homeowners that trees and large shrubs can damage a home’s foundation, resulting in serious structural compromise that can allow water to enter the crawl space or basement. The water damage compounds the structural damage caused by the trees and shrubs. The signs of damage may go unnoticed by the homeowner for years until the foundation is breached and water floods the basement or crawl space.

Repairing the foundation can be extremely expensive. Any water damage restoration needed in the basement or crawl space will add further expense. Homeowners need to be aware that repairing the damage to the foundation, basement, or crawl space does not address the cause of the damage — the trees and shrubs growing too close to the foundation.

Warning Signs of Potential Disaster

A homeowner might be facing an impending disaster if any of the following conditions exist around the foundation of the home.

Large trees growing near the house

Large trees with expansive canopies growing close to the home can damage the foundation, crush plumbing and drainage pipes, and cause cracks in basement walls. The result is leakage in the basement or crawl space. Tree roots growing under a slab can result in the slab cracking, allowing moisture to enter the home.

Large or mature shrubs growing next to the foundation

Because shrubs are often pruned and shaped to accent the overall landscape, homeowners sometimes fail to realize how extensive the root structure of a twenty-year-old shrub is. If left unpruned, some shrubs grow as large as trees. The impact of a large shrub on the soil next to the foundation is similar to that caused by a large tree.

A horticulturalist points out how trees and shrubs can cause structural damage to a home’s foundation or basement wall. “Foundation problems can and do result, however, from what tree roots are doing in the first place — sucking up water. Unless the soil around the house foundation is very dense and was properly compacted after the foundation was installed, tree roots can cause slumping and shifting of the soil as they draw out water. Tree roots grow larger each year underground, to the point where a mature tree will grow roots so large they may also loosen and heave soil due to their changing girth. It is the combined effect of these two root characteristics that can cause enough of an imbalance of pressure in the soil surrounding a house foundation that it may strain outward and crack.”

Planting trees at least twenty feet from the house is advised. A better rule of thumb is to plant trees far enough away from the home that the tree canopy never extends over the roof. Limbs and leaves may cause more damage than the tree’s root system. A simple remedy to prevent tree roots from removing moisture from the soil is to keep trees and shrubs watered during the dry months of the year.

The homeowner who desires to have shrubs growing next to the foundation should select plants that are slow-growing and have small root balls. Selecting dwarf versions of larger shrubs can achieve landscape goals while avoiding potential foundation damage in the future.

Signs of moisture in the basement

The presence of mold, mildew, or a musty smell in the basement or crawl space may be an indicator of structural compromise to the foundation or walls. If the signs of moisture are in areas that are near where large trees and shrubs are growing outside the home, then the cause of the moisture intrusion may be the trees and shrubs. In some instances, roots can be found growing in the crawl space or through the basement walls or floor of the home.

A Safety Reminder

Contact a utility locator service before planning and installing a landscape design. The locator service is usually free. They locate and mark underground utility lines such as main water lines, natural gas pipes, sewer pipes, electrical service, and fiber optic cables. Cutting one of these lines can result in costly damages, personal injury, or death.

Conclusion

When signs of water damage are discovered, take action. The longer a water damage situation remains unaddressed, the more complicated and expensive the restoration and repair process is. The solution may involve a landscape architect, a foundation repair specialist, or a water damage restoration expert. Checking the exterior of the home about every three months will enable the homeowner to spot and eliminate problems.

For more information about water damage restoration services, visit the SERVPRO of North Garland website at https://www.SERVPROnorthgarland.com. The office can be reached by phone at (972) 496-2441 or by email at office@SERVPRO10914.com.

North Dallas Damage Restoration Company Urges People to Consider Fireworks Safety This 4th of July

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

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Summary: SERVPRO of North Garland provides five fireworks safety tips to keep holiday celebrations safe and fun. 

Celebrating the 4th of July with fireworks is a great American tradition. Residents of North Garland are no exception. SERVPRO of North Garland, a residential and commercial damage restoration company, urges residents of the North Dallas area to celebrate their independence safely this July 4th.

Fireworks Can Be Dangerous

The National Fire Protection Association provides the following fireworks fire and injury statistics to drive home the point of the potential danger that can arise from improperly handling fireworks.

“Fireworks started an estimated 19,500 fires in 2018, including 1,900 structure fires, 500 vehicle fires, and 17,100 outside and other fires. These fires caused five deaths, 46 civilian injuries, and $105 million in direct property damage. In 2018, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 9,100 people for fireworks-related injuries; half of those injuries were to the extremities and 34% were to the eye or other parts of the head. Children younger than 15 years of age accounted for more than one-third (36%) of the estimated 2018 injuries. These injury estimates were obtained or derived from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s 2018 Fireworks Annual Report by Yongling Tu and Jason Ng.”

How to Stay Safe When Using Fireworks

The Texas Department of Insurance offers these fireworks safety tips to have fun with fireworks and stay safe.

1. Abide by local laws.

Most areas do not allow fireworks within city limits or during burn bans, and some areas allow only certain types of fireworks. Follow the local law and contact the local fire officials if there are any questions.

2. Find out if a permit is required.

Organizers will need a permit from the local fire department if they are putting on a fireworks show for a group of fifty people or more.

3. Hire licensed professionals.

An individual putting on a fireworks display for a group must have a Texas pyrotechnic operator’s license. To see if a person or organization has a Texas license, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at 1-800-578-4677 or Fire.Marshal@tdi.texas.gov.

4. Make sure fireworks are legal in the area.

Fireworks can be sold only during certain times of the year, usually within the week or so leading up to an important holiday. Besides the 4th of July and New Year’s celebrations, Texas counties may include Texas Independence Day (March 2nd), San Jacinto Day (April 21st), Cinco de Mayo (May 5th), and Memorial Day. Anyone can use fireworks any day of the year as long as they are not banned in the area where they are being used.

5. Be safe!

• Ensure that an adult is always watching when children are near fireworks.
• Children should never shoot off fireworks.
• Do not drink alcohol while using fireworks.
• Carefully follow the instructions on the firework.
• Do not shoot fireworks towards or near dry grass, brush, or any other flammable material.
• Never aim fireworks in the direction of a person or animal.
• Do not aim fireworks at a house or other structure.
• Keep a bucket of water, garden hose, or other water sources on hand for potential emergencies.

SERVPRO of North Garland provides these fireworks safety tips as a public service to the residents of North Garland in the hopes that everyone will have an enjoyable, safe, and patriotic 4th of July.

Fire and Water Damage Restoration Process

When a home or business is dealing with the aftermath of a fire, the damage that it can cause to the property structure and valuable possessions can be extremely devastating. At SERVPRO, the team understands the stress, confusion, and all the emotions that are present when dealing with this kind of ordeal. The SERVPRO technicians are highly skilled and certified, as well as equipped with fire damage restoration equipment to take special care of the client’s property and possessions. The SERVPRO team will be there with the customer every step along the way to explain the process to help get them through this stressful time.

After the fire trucks leave, the home or business likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore a home to its pre-fire condition.

Every fire damage event requires an individualized solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate the process for the typical fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when a customer calls SERVPRO. A representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help SERVPRO respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

SERVPRO technicians carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of the property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the team can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (If Water Damage Is Present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. SERVPRO technicians then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot From All Surfaces

Specialized equipment and techniques are used to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

Skilled technicians clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. SERVPRO employs a variety of cleaning techniques to restore belongings to their pre-fire condition. The SERVPRO specialists are also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting a home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Conclusion

SERVPRO of North Garland hopes that everyone’s July 4th celebration will be safe, enjoyable, and fire-free. For more information about fire and water damage restoration, visit the SERVPRO of North Garland website at  https://www.SERVPROnorthgarland.com. Contact the office by phone at (972) 496-2441.

Local Company Resolves All Types of Water Damage Emergencies

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

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Summary: Every water damage disaster is unique and requires an individualized solution. SERVPRO of North Garland has the training and experience to address any water damage emergency.

Every water disaster is different, from the amount of water to the level of contamination of the water. The following scenario illustrates that every water damage situation is unique in many ways.

An HVAC Drain Pan Overflows

Jessica and Mike loved to work in the yard. A butterfly garden, a raised bed teaming with herbs, and a koi pond graced the couple’s backyard. The east side of their home needed some color and activity, so they decided to plant a flowering vine. Drippage from the HVAC unit drain pipe would keep the vine watered and flourishing.

The couple considered the crossvine with its lovely red blooms, the fragrant star jasmine, and the loud orange blooms of a trumpet vine. These popular landscape vines thrive in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. It was the wisteria vine, with its spectacular purple blooms, that the couple finally decided on. Wisteria grows an impressive 30-40 feet per season, so it would cover the desired area quickly. Mike and Jessica set out several vines that they trained along a trellis beside the home.

The vines thrived in the morning sun with daily moisture from the HVAC irrigation system. Jessica and Mike were pleased with how fast their new plant grew, and they loved its pale, purple color. Little did they know what a beast this beautiful vine would prove to be.

That summer, the temperature in the Dallas/Fort Worth area skyrocketed to over 110 degrees. To escape the heat, the couple decided to take a two-week vacation in the Rockies. While they were gone, their HVAC system worked overtime to keep the home comfortable for their two dogs. Mike and Jessica arranged for a neighbor to come over daily to give the pets food and water and take them for a walk. About ten days after the couple left for the trip, the neighbor noticed a strong, musty smell in the house and streaks on the ceiling and along the walls of the hallway. The next day, the neighbor saw wet carpet in the hallway and adjacent bedrooms, and she immediately called Jessica and Mike. Returning home, the couple realized the problem was serious. Investigation revealed that the HVAC system was the source of the flooding.

The local HVAC technician discovered that the drain pan was full and had been overflowing for days, if not weeks. The coils needed cleaning, and the filter was past due for a change, which caused the system to work overtime. However, the drain pan was in good condition, and the drain pipe did not appear to be clogged at the pan. These factors did not explain why water was not flowing through the system.

The technician asked the couple to show him where the drain pipe evacuated the water from the system, and they took him to the spot. Where the drain pipe should have been, there was a mass of wisteria. Only after clawing through the wisteria did the technician find the hidden drain pipe, which was clogged with vines. Once the plant growth was removed, water gushed from the pipe.

With the mystery of the overflowing drain pan solved, the HVAC technician urged Mike and Jessica to contact a local water damage restoration company immediately. As much as several hundred gallons of water had spilled out of the drain pan while the couple was on vacation. The ceiling appeared to be at the point of collapse, the carpet and flooring were water-logged, and the smell was unbearable, indicating mold and mildew growth.

The SERVPRO Water Damage Restoration Process

Each water damage restoration call requires a unique solution, but the general process does not change. The steps listed below illustrate the process for the "typical" water damage emergency. When a home or commercial property has water damage from flooding or leaks, SERVPRO of North Garland has the expertise and equipment to restore the property. The technicians’ experience and scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup enable them to properly dry and restore the property.

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins with a phone call. The SERVPRO representative guides the property owner through the crisis and may ask several questions to help better understand the equipment and resources that are needed for the situation.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

The SERVPRO specialists will determine the scope of the water damage at this stage. They inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled.

Step 3 - Water Removal

The water removal process begins almost immediately and powerful pumps and vacuum units quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from the property. Prompt water extraction helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

Specialized equipment removes the remaining moisture. The SERVPRO professionals use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry the home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

SERVPRO cleans all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. They are adept at cleaning contents using a number of techniques. These experts provide sanitizing treatments, remove odors, and deodorize the property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration is the process of restoring a home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Conclusion

For over 15 years, SERVPRO of North Garland has been providing damage restoration services to the local community. The experienced and licensed professionals aim to provide excellent service to every customer needing assistance with fire damage, flood damage, duct cleaning, or restoration projects. No matter what the client’s needs may be, SERVPRO of North Garland is available to help at any time with its 24-hour emergency services. Offering a range of specialized equipment, the professionals can quickly return a property to its previous condition. SERVPRO is the number one choice for all restoration and reconstruction needs. The team can take disaster damage and make it "Like it never even happened."

Local Water Damage Restoration Company Provides Emergency Tarping

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

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Summary: SERVPRO of North Garland provides disaster services, including emergency tarping for homes and businesses.

On occasions, the weather in North Texas can be stormy. In October 2019, tornadoes touched down in Garland and Dallas, damaging or destroying thousands of structures. The Garland tornado was an EF-1 with winds of 100 mph, while the Dallas twister proved to be more severe as an EF-3 with winds reaching 140 mph. Some of the structural damage caused by these storms would not be discovered for months.

A Stormy Scenario

For an unfortunate homeowner, it seemed that all the rain for the two wettest months of the year – April and May –  would fall in the span of a week. Each soggy day, the homeowner discovered a new water spot in the ceiling. First, it was the area above the oven hood. Next, a grayish outline appeared around the bathroom exhaust fan. A streak etched its way alongside the chimney. The last straw was the dripping leak around the perimeter of the skylight in the den. The ceiling sagged. The carpet sloshed underfoot. The bathroom smelled musty and moldy. The situation was becoming more serious as the minutes passed, and circumstances called for more than a roof inspection.

The homeowner called on the expertise and equipment of a water damage restoration specialist who could come right out and inspect the damage. The team covered the roof with emergency tarping to prevent any more water from leaking into the home and causing more damage.

The Immediate Solution: Emergency Tarping to Stop the Leaking

Roof leaks can become a breeding ground for black mold, ruin insulation, rot wooden framing, and damage interior ceilings and walls. While stopping the leak does not solve the problem of the leaky roof or repair the damage to the home, emergency tarping brings immediate peace of mind to the homeowner. No more water will pour through the roof. Once the situation is stabilized, the roof issue can be permanently resolved, and the water damage restoration process can begin.

Homeowners need to know that although their insurance does not cover the roof repair, it may still cover damage caused by the leaky roof. Often, the water damage repair and restoration process is covered by insurance, saving the homeowner thousands of dollars.

What the Homeowner Can Do Until Help Arrives

After any water damage situation, the primary focus should be safety:

• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe to perform. Leave emergency tarping to experienced professionals who have the needed materials and safety equipment for a job this dangerous.
• Wet materials can be very heavy. Be careful when lifting debris.

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT to Do After Flooding

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

A leaky roof can be a dreaded problem for a homeowner, especially if the leak is severe, it continues to rain, and the homeowner does not have the means to tarp the roof. Emergency tarping is an effective short-term strategy to stop leaks and curtail the potential damage. Stopping the leak as quickly as possible and beginning the recovery and restoration process can be quick and simple if the homeowner turns to a competent professional with a demonstrated track record of resolving emergencies quickly.

For more information about emergency tarping, call SERVPRO of North Garland at (972) 496-2441.

Keeping Senior Citizens Safe: Seven Simple Steps

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

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Summary: SERVPRO of North Garland shares basic steps to help prevent the spread of infectious diseases in nursing homes and assisted-living centers.

Recently, a new strain of the coronavirus, COVID-19, has been in news outlets all over the world. What exactly is COVID-19? Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

The disease has spread across the world since 2019, resulting in the 2019–20 coronavirus pandemic. A pandemic is an outbreak of a disease that is found over a wide geographic area and affects a substantial segment of the population.

Common symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Muscle ache, mucus, and sore throat are some of the less common symptoms. While most cases result in mild symptoms, some do progress to pneumonia and more serious illness. The fatality rate is estimated at between 1% and 5% but varies by age and other health conditions.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that older adults and people with severe underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes are at a high risk of developing more serious complications from COVID-19.

Dr. Nagendra Gupta, internist at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital, echoes this assessment, saying, “Based on all the data we have been receiving so far, it appears that elderly people, especially those with multiple comorbid conditions, are affected more severely.”

SERVPRO of North Garland recommends that everyone protect themselves and others by following the advice of the CDC. The CDC urges people to immediately incorporate the following practices into their daily lives.

1. Wash hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
2. Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth with hands that are unwashed.
3. Avoid close contact with people who are ill.
4. Obtain medical assistance if one becomes sick. Stay home to avoid infecting others.
5. Cover the mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If a tissue is not available, use the inside of the elbow.
6. Wear a facemask if sick.
7. Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces, at least one or more times daily.

Typically, nursing homes and assisted-living centers take very proactive measures to prevent the outbreak and spread of infectious diseases such as the flu. Nursing homes all over the United States have been put on lockdown to keep COVID-19 out of the nursing home environment. Elderly patients who have contracted the virus have been put in quarantine or taken to the hospital. Workers are on high alert during this national state of emergency.

When is it time to call in a professional cleaning service to clean, disinfect, and sanitize a nursing home or assisted living facility?

Seek advice and assistance from a highly trained, well-informed, and experienced cleaning expert to answer this question. The most vulnerable are the elderly who have underlying ailments that compromise their immune system and their respiratory system. A competent cleaning professional can provide prevention strategies for a care facility, as well as a business, daycare, or residence.

People recognize SERVPRO as the industry frontrunner for water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, and disaster recovery. The SERVPRO team also specializes in commercial and residential cleaning at a level that exceeds other cleaning services. Their enhanced cleaning goes beyond the general practices of the janitorial staff. Using advanced cleaning tools, technologies, and techniques, the SERVPRO professionals clean to the deepest level. They follow CDC guidelines and use only safe, hospital-grade cleaning solutions that eliminate germs.

When SERVPRO comes into a facility for a deep clean to address germs and infection, they offer services that include disinfecting all floors and flat surfaces. To remove dust and mites that can cause or worsen a reaction, they clean air ducts, the HVAC system, and blinds. COVID-19 causes inflammation throughout the lungs, so removing dust and other particles that exacerbate inflammation creates a safer environment. Also, SERVPRO can clean drapes, upholstery, and carpet where dust, dirt, and germs hide.

When there has been repeated sickness in a home, sometimes a professional deep-clean response is needed. Removing pathogens (COVID-19) and allergens (dust) might be just what is needed.

When a SERVPRO team leaves a facility, the client can rest assured that their business, home, school, or church is clean, disinfected, and sanitary. SERVPRO professionals have received advanced training in restorations, cleanups, and cleaning maintenance. They are the pros who know how to serve.

For more information about nursing home cleaning in North Garland, call SERVPRO of North Garland at (972) 496-2441.

North Garland Flood Safety Tips

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has years of experience and knowledge that we can use to help you in tough situations.

SERVPRO is known for its nationwide 24/7 services and fast turn around times. Whether it’s fire damage or water damage SERVPRO has got you covered. Water damage can be caused by a multitude of reasons, one of the most common being floods. Statistically most home/business owners will be affected by flooding at some point in their lives. The American Red Cross confirmed that floods cause more in damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather related disaster. Here are some tips for general flood safety actions for you to take while you figure out your next steps.

Flood Safety Tips:

• Stay away from floodwaters, if you come up on high waters it’s important that you turn around and find higher ground. Waters up to 6 inches moving fast enough can sweep the average person off their feet.
• Follow the same caution when it comes driving. If you cannot quickly retreat get out of the car and find higher ground. Most cars can actually be swept away by less than 2 ft of water.
• Always keep children away from water from any water damaged area. A child’s curiosity is a wonderful thing, but in the cases of things that are potentially dangerous we must do all we can to keep them safe. They are almost always unaware of the dangers that exists in contaminated waters and most of the dangers are invisible to the eye, so its best to keep them away from it all together. 

If you do ever find yourself dealing with flood and water damage you can count on your SERVPRO of North Garland. Minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure if not handled correctly. SERVPRO of North Garland is properly equipped to take on any size disasters.Give us a call at 972-496-2441. 

Getting Ready for the New Year with SERVPRO of North Garland

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Natural disasters don't give us any warning before they strike. It's important to take steps to be prepared.

A new year means new beginning. It’s in these new beginnings that we need to remember to take care of the things important to us, and for a lot of people that includes their homes. When emergencies happen in your homes you’re left with very little options. SERVPRO offers some of  the leading services in the industry when it comes to home restoration. Preparation is the best way to minimize the aftermath of any disaster. Double checking and securing at-risk areas in your home is the first and most crucial step to dealing with these unfortunate events. 

While in the Winter season it’s critical to remember the importance of leaving the faucets running slightly. Check the plumbing in the home for cracks and breaks in any of the lines. Christmas decorations and trees should be stored and put away properly. Give SERVPRO of North Garland a call so you can learn more about the Emergency Ready Plan. The ERP is a no cost assessment your local franchise can provide for any facility at the end of which they will leave you with a detailed plan on the most efficient way to get back to business. The information provided to you includes full comprehensive information about your facility including, emergency contacts, shut off valve locations, and priority areas. While you get an idea of what your first steps are to take, it’s important that you call someone to get help ASAP. SERVPRO comes with over 50 years of experience and can be a big asset especially since we have already familiarized ourselves with the facility. 

As we go forth into 2020, remember this decade is all about being prepared. The past decade was home to some pretty awful disasters in the North Garland area. Most recently SERVPRO of North Garland did a lot of recovery work for local residents who’s homes were damaged by the tornadoes that hit the DFW area in October 2019. Many homes were lost and others required a full spectrum of repairs. Through it all SERVPRO of North Garland provided move out services as well as restorations for the properties that were salvageable. When emergencies happen we can do the same for you give us a call at 972-496-2441.

North Garland Fire Safety and Awareness

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Safe practices when using the kitchen are always best, but in your worst case scenarios SERVPRO of North Garland is there.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. Follow these tips to create a safer cooking environment: 

• Be alert! If you are tired or have consumed alcohol don’t use the oven or stove.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire – oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains – away from the stovetop.
• Keep an easily accessible fire extinguisher somewhere in your kitchen. 

If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 911 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you are cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave a pan covered until it is completely cooled. Never add water to a grease fire!

If you have experienced a kitchen fire call the professionals at SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441.

Why it’s important to check your house after this recent storm in North Garland.

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

When the rain stops does mean the danger stops. Give SERVPRO a call to make sure your water is removed correction.

At SERVPRO of North Garland we realize a water damage restoration service is the kind of professional that no one wants to call, but when they are needed, it is important not to delay. Most Dallas homeowners know that moisture is often the enemy, capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem. No matter how moisture gets into the building, be it from rain (currently in our Dallas forecast), a burst pipe, or any other reason - the response should be the same. Bring in a certified firm like SERVPRO of North Garland as soon as possible to clean the home, dry it, and ensure there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, never try to handle it on your own. Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill. SERVPRO of North Garland, a certified water damage restoration service, not only has the tools to eliminate the moisture, they have the protective equipment to remain free from harm.

Our highly trained restoration technicians have a lot of technology at their disposal. These include powerful vacuums and pumping systems, high volume air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and a number of detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats. While the technicians work on the building, disposing of compromised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live, and a business safe to work in; any other cleaning method is a dangerous gamble. To learn more feel free to contact us at ((972)-496-2441.

SERVPRO Joins the Garland Chamber of Commerce 35th Annual Golf Tournament.

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Garland getting involved in a local Golf Tournament.

This past Friday on 9/20/2019 SERVPRO of North Garland, as well as many other local businesses, participated in the 35th Annual Garland Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament. The team had the opportunity to set up a tent, where we hosted games, and had giveaways which the players won by entering a raffle. The SERVPRO team networked with many of the two hundred and six players that competed in the tournament that day and we even entered a team with four of our own members.

The impact the tournament had on our community outreach was significant as it connected us to many other businesses as well as their employees. Many of the players who visited the SERVPRO of North Garland tent really enjoyed the snacks and refreshments that we offered with us hearing many times how we were their favorite stop of the day. The day ended with four happy raffle winners who took home golf themed gift baskets that were given away at the award ceremony. To learn more about us visit us at SERVPRO or give us a call at 972-496-2441.

SERVPRO Clean Up and Restoration

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

Give SERVPRO of North Garland a call at 972-496-2441

There is no disaster that hits home quite like a disaster to your property or business. When you have suffered a fire, water, or mold damage, you don't have time to waste searching for a company to fix your property. When disaster strikes, you can depend on SERVPRO of North Garland. Whether the job is big or small we will be there to help make it "Like it never even happened" so you can get your business up and running as soon as possible.

As a resource for commercial property managers, SERVPRO produces Restoration Newsline each month. In the issues of Restoration Newsline, you will find priceless information that can benefit you as a business owner. This includes suggestions on handling water and fire damages, advice regarding air quality, tips on dealing with the damage from difficult tenants, and much more. If you are interested in receiving a copy of Restoration Newsline each month, please call our office anytime. We have both physical and online copies available.

If you're in need of cleanup and restoration services, call SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441.

Professional Water Damage Clean Up in your North Garland Home.

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Professional water removal in the first 24-48 hours is very important in preventing the risk of further damage to your North Garland home.

The Case for Professional Water Removal in Your North Garland Home

When an appliance or plumbing line breaks in your North Garland home the amount of water threatening your property can be shocking. If the emergency happens when you are out of town or even away on a work day you can return to several inches to feet of standing water in the affected spaces. Facing the task of removing this amount of water with a wet household vacuum or a bucket and mop is a mistake. You need water moved out fast, and our highly-qualified crews can help.

The keys to efficient water removal in North Garland is commercial grade equipment and specially trained technicians. Water damage moves quickly from inconvenience to significant structural component deterioration if not removed fast. Water that lingers more than 24 to 48 hours also subjects your home to the risk of secondary damage such as mold growth. You need a partner during this crisis with experienced employees and state of the art water removal and drying tools.

SERVPRO crews arrive within hours in our signature green trucks loaded with the equipment needed to remove water, detect structural moisture levels, and dry out your home. Submersible pumps and truck-mounted water extractors do quick work of suctioning out large quantities of water. If the electricity in your home is unavailable temporarily for safety reasons, we forge ahead using generators on our vehicles. 

Our crews certify as moisture measurement experts through IICRC coursework. SERVPRO also uses thermal scanning devices to locate any hidden pockets of water that need release and extraction after the water loss. Determining the levels of excess water with meters and probes in building materials and fixtures informs our drying goals. We position air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to remove residual moisture, vital to restore the function of the building materials shaping and supporting your home.  

A final step in the water removal protocol is sanitation with an EPA registered disinfectant. SERVPRO treats the affected areas to inhibit any potential mold growth and to control malodors. Our full-service water removal and damage mitigation services get your property back “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of North Garland is prepared for any water removal challenge with an industry-leading combination of skilled technicians and commercial grade equipment. Contact us at (972)-496-2441 for an immediate assessment to put this water crisis behind you.

A How To On Recovering From Storm Damage

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO help you weather the storm.

Imagine your house has been attacked by a huge storm. The strong winds broke windows, blew doors open, caused some roof destruction. The rain can now creep inside your home, the place where your family is, and can cause more damage. No one wants to imagine anything happening to their homes, especially their family, but in case of an emergency, we have to. We have to be prepared for whatever comes.

Here are some tips recommended by Cintas to minimize the results of storm damage on your home or business.

1. Consider safety hazards.
1. Watch out for loose debris. Know how to shut off the electricity in affected areas. Educate your employees and family on how to do this safely and correctly.
2. Examine outside doors and windows.
1. Outside doors and windows have easy access to the storm. Ensure the door handles and knobs as well as window locks are still working properly. This can help prevent more water entering and possible break ins.
3. Disinfect contaminated surfaces.
1. Remove all contaminated material when cleaning after a storm. Cleaning the contaminated areas will help not spread the infected areas to other surfaces.
4. Restore plumbing and water line.
1. After storm damage, specifically flooding, water lines can be clogged or cause them to backflow. By ensuring they are clear, it can limit the chance of closures and odor issues.

For some of these tips, oneself doesn’t have the experience to do all the work. You can contact your insurance agent and they can find contractors and cleanup crews to do the job. If by any chance you are not happy with who they have chosen, give us a call, SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441 and we will gladly do all the dirty work for you.

Hope these helped. These are just a few tips on how to recover from storm damage.

Let SERVPRO Serve You

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO. We’re always here to serve.

Did you know, your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? Inspecting the ductwork in your facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO of North Garland Professional’s service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

If you have a fuel burning furnace, stove or fireplace, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning, and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System is proven and cost efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

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

For more information on duct cleaning, or schedule an appointment, contact us, SERVPRO of North Garland, at 972-496-2441.

Fallen Trees in Your North Garland Home

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

The aftermath of a storm can be scary, Let SERVPRO of North Garland do everything we can to make it easier on you.

For as inviting as the natural light can be to your North Garland home, grand window layouts can also present potential threats when your home encounters one of the many severe storm systems expected throughout the year. When trees get pushed over or split due to excessive winds, lightning, or other damages, these significant additions to your property can find their way to the windows you have installed and break them out. As alarming as this situation might be, the flooding that can result from this exposed portion of your home can become even more threatening. 

There are many homes throughout the area and its smaller surrounding communities, so storm and flood damage in North Garland after a severe storm can affect many properties simultaneously. While there are many steps to recovering your home after substantial damages like this, you need a team of professionals that can arrive fast with the expertise to handle all phases of the job through its completion. Our SERVPRO team offers comprehensive support in flood damage situations to handle mitigation, assessments, reconstruction, and final restoration work that returns your damaged home to preloss condition.

Our professionals can arrive quickly with the equipment to begin extraction while our licensed contractors board up the areas broken out from the wind or falling trees. We can remove the tree or its limbs from against your home as well to further protect it from continued water damages. Once mitigation completes, our contacting division can step in immediately to repair and reconstruct damaged areas of your property.

The faster that our SERVPRO team can get notified of the situation the better able we are to protect your home against threats from flood effects. In the right circumstances, many of the saturated materials and affected areas can get fully restored without the need for further demolition and reconstruction.

It is essential to secure professional restoration services immediately when disasters like this strike, as you are rarely the only home in the area affected by the severe weather. Our SERVPRO of North Garland rapid response team can work to make flooding in your home “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call at (972)-496-2441.

Professional Fire Damage Clean Up- North Garland.

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

Once the fire is out doesn’t mean you’re safe. Find out what damages the fire left behind before you begin restoration services.

The reasons why professional fire cleanup is crucial focus on safety and thorough remediation in North Garland as elsewhere. A seemingly minor fire quickly extinguished, might appear to need merely a slightly more intense than usual seasonal cleaning. Taking this perspective is risky, with the potential to expose your loved ones and the structure of your home to invisible yet severe progressive damage.

Significant Water Damage

Merely because it was introduced on purpose to mitigate fire damage in your North Garland home does not negate the hazards of water damage. Slips and falls, electrical shocks, and permanent harm to building materials are just some of the dangers of firefighting water incursion. Efficient water removal and structural drying are essential before or while soot and other debris are cleared. Our technicians hold multiple certifications from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and can move between tasks seamlessly.

Safety Concerns When Managing Toxic Residues

Regardless of the extent of the smoke and soot damage, cleaning is a hazardous endeavor. The chemicals, tar, and gasses produced by fire are toxic and abrasive. SERVPRO Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) are highly-trained in appropriate strategies that clean fire residues efficiently while avoiding smearing and further damage to surfaces by sharp-edged soot particles. We match the type of soot with appropriate cleaners, tools, and methods based on research and experience, not trial and error. 

Specialized Professional Equipment

SERVPRO technicians don personal protective equipment (PPE) when evaluating and cleaning your home. We frequently contain the work area with heavy-duty plastic sheeting and by operating a negative pressure air scrubber. The pressure seals the partition and forces airborne contaminants through HEPA filters before exhausting outside.

Pack-Out Possibilities

The contents of your home suffer from smoke, smells, and soot, too. We offer a Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) to document any items we remove for assessment, cleaning, deodorization, and other restorative procedures at our production facility. Our talented Contents Processing Technicians (CPT) employ a broad range of strategies to save personal possessions you feared ruined beyond repair.

SERVPRO of North Garland offers victims of fire damage a comprehensive array of professional mitigation and remediation services. Partner up with our skilled and certified team by scheduling an assessment at. (972)-496-2441

Our Biohazard Cleanup Services

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Bio recovery refers to the cleanup and remediation of situations dealing with biological hazards. These types of events are ones that people hope they never have to deal with, but unfortunately crimes and trauma do happen and when they do SERVPRO of North Garland can help.

We have Certified Bio Recovery Technicians (CBRTs) on our staff, who have been specially trained in the cleanup of hazardous biological agents. Regardless of the scenario, our professionals are prepared to handle it. Any blood or other potentially infectious agents will be cleaned and disinfected, while any materials unable to be disinfected (particularly porous ones such as carpet) will be collected and disposed of in specific ways to prevent cross contamination. Using specialized equipment for disinfection and protection, along with their knowledge of blood borne pathogens and potential for cross-contamination, our CBRT certified SERVPRO professionals can guarantee a quick and safe cleanup of any biohazard situation you are dealing with.

Call SERVPRO of North Garland anytime at 972-496-2441 for all of your cleanup needs!

Common Water Leaks

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

Water leak coming through ceiling.

Dealing with leaks in your home can be both time consuming and costly. Knowing the typical places leaks are found can aid in taking preventative measures and possibly decrease your risk. Here are the most common water leak locations:

Bathtub or Shower Seal
While bathrooms are much better equipped at dealing with moisture than other rooms, there are many times an entire bathroom remodel is required due to a simple leak. One of the typical culprits for a bathroom water damage is a leaking tub or shower due to a faulty seal. The mass amounts of water that could potentially leak from a tub may produce mold growth in the floor or even down to the sub-floor, where it can grow unnoticed for a long and dangerous amount of time.

Toilet
A toilet can leak through its seal, similar to the bathtub and shower, but it can also leak internally. An internal leak will not cause damage to your home, but it may hurt your wallet when it comes time to pay your bill. A seal leak can go unnoticed for a long time around a toilet, due to their positioning in our bathrooms, and can lead to mold problems. Be on the lookout for both external and internal leaks!

Sink Pipes and Garbage Disposals
Pipes from our sink are typically located within visually appealing cabinets, but unfortunately these cabinets are often the worst type of material when it comes to leaks. Wood and particle board are great at absorbing moisture, and supply a great home and food source for mold. Since these pipes are out of sight, and usually out of mind, many leaks go unnoticed and can lead to large restoration projects. Regularly check these areas in order to prevent a smelly and frustrating disaster from happening in your cupboards.

Hot Water Heaters and Washing Machine Hoses
Age is the culprit behind these types of leaks, causing metal to rust out in heaters and cracks to occur in the hoses of washing machines. Do biannual checks (at least!) on both these areas, and replace whenever necessary, in order to prevent a flood from occurring within your home.

If you have experienced a water damage in your home, call SERVPRO of North Garland now at 972-496-2441.

Call SERVPRO for Your Mold Needs

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

When mold growth occurs in a home there are certain signs that will alert you to its presence. If you notice any of these signs it is important to call the mold remediation experts at SERVPRO immediately. Time is of the essence when it comes to your home and mold, so the sooner the remediation process can begin the better. Here are some mold symptoms to look out for in your home:

1) A bad smell - odor is usually the first sign you may have a problem with mold growth somewhere in your home. While it can be hard to pin down exactly what the smell is, if there are any out of place smells in your home that will not go away mold is a possible cause.

2) A water leak - if you have recently experienced a water damage, no matter how small, your home is now at risk for mold. Mold requires certain conditions in order to flourish, and moisture is one of the key components to growth. If you notice the humidity is high in your home, if you notice paint peeling, or any discoloration on the wall or ceiling, you may have a leak somewhere. A leak is always a potential source for mold, so it is important to stop any leaks as soon as you notice them.

3) Discoloration - along with signifying a leak, wall and ceiling discoloration can also indicate mold growth. Mold can grow on most organic materials, so even discoloration on the grout between your tiles can serve as an alarm for mold.

If you suspect a water damage or mold in your home please call us anytime at 972-496-2441.

Is Your Roof Storm Ready?

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

When it comes to our homes, and even commercial properties, our roofs are the first line of defense against storms. While spring is when severe storms are most likely to occur in North Texas, the long and cold rainy days we have during the winter often result in water damages when they penetrate through a roof that was not repaired after a heavy storm season earlier in the year.

In order to ensure your roof is ready for anything the weather may bring you should check for damage regularly. Missing shingles, signs of small leaks, or mold damage are some of the things you yourself can check for regularly, especially following a hard storm or consecutive bad weather days. If you suspect there may be any type of problem with your roof, you should call in roofing professionals that can give you a complete assessment. When the weather gets bad the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not your roof can hold up against a storm, so try to do regular inspections throughout the year and at least one professional assessment per year in order to protect your home.

If you have a water damage due to a roof leak at your home or business, call SERVPRO of North Garland anytime at 972-496-2441. Our team can be onsite quickly to begin the restoration process as soon as possible.

Quick Mold Facts

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Mold spores are all around us always, but when presented with the right conditions mold can quickly turn into a disaster within your own home. That is why it pays to know as much about mold growth as possible. That way, if mold ever becomes an issue within your home you will recognize it quickly, and hopefully be able to put a stop to it before it causes extensive damage.

Mold Facts

• There are over 10,000 species of mold.
• Only about 5 species are commonly found in homes.
• Mold’s purpose in our environment is to decompose organic matter, which is why mold loves growing in our homes (drywall, wood, fabric, insulation materials, etc.).
• Mold growth can signal an unknown water damage.
• Homeowner’s insurance may not cover mold damage, be sure to check in with your agent about what your policy covers before you have a mold problem.
• Mold restoration damage in homes around the United States costs approximately 73 billion dollars a year.
• Mold remediation services that we provide here at SERVPRO of North Garland are the only way to guarantee mold growth has been completely removed from your home.

If you suspect mold in your home call SERVPRO of North Garland now at 972-496-2441.

Act Fast for Water Damages

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

North Texas is expected to have an extremely wet and cold fall, and the last few days have been proving that prediction to be true. When an increase in the amount of rainfall is expected you can assume that there will also be a rise in water damages, especially when you add in possible low temperatures. Water heaters break, pipes burst, and rain causes some very unwanted flooding. If you experience a water damage in your home of business know that time is of the essence when it comes to the restoration process. Within just 24 hours mold can begin to grow, so ridding an area of moisture as soon as possible is vital in preventing further damage to your property.

1. After noticing a water damage turn off the source to the water (if applicable).
2. Call your insurance to submit a claim.
3. Call SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441.

Acting sooner rather than later can save you time and money, so call SERVPRO of North Garland anytime for all of your restoration needs.  

SERVPRO Storm Services

10/7/2018 (Permalink)

Many SERVPRO crews flocked to North Carolina following Hurricane Florence to assist with the cleanup, including our own SERVPRO of North Garland professionals. Getting back to “normal” is a long process, especially for those who had their homes destroyed by flood waters. Unfortunately, this lengthy cleanup is often exacerbated by mold.

Mold requires a warm, moist environment to grow. The flood waters produced by hurricanes along with the high temperatures of hurricane season (June-November) provide the perfect climate for mold. Hurricane Florence produced an unprecedented amount of rainfall – damaging hundreds of thousands of homes. On top of dealing with water damage these home owners may also have to be concerned about hazardous mold growth.

If you ever experience a flood in your home, there are some steps you can take to protect both yourself and your home from mold.

• Protect your mouth and nose with a N-95 respirator.
• Wear gloves to tear out any drywall.
• Use eye protection.
• Open as many doors and windows as possible to encourage air flow before SERVPRO professionals can get to the scene.
• Do not paint or caulk over any visible mold, it only hides the issue from view.
• Throw away any items that cannot be saved.

The key to preventing mold from growing in your home is removing the moisture. SERVPRO crews will work as fast as possible to begin the drying process, and are prepared to handle any mold that may arise. If you experience a water damage in your house call SERVPRO of North Garland anytime at 972-496-2441.

Storm Damage Cleanup

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

While we typically consider storm season to be during the spring here in Texas, technically it is storm season all year round. Our high temperatures and tendency for drastic temperature changes overnight create the perfect environment for violent storms. Cleaning up after one of these storms can be frustrating and time consuming if you aren't sure where or how to start. SERVPRO is here to help whenever needed, but we have also compiled a list of tips that are useful for any home or business owner when it comes to storm cleanup: 

1. Consider safety hazards.
• Watch out for loose debris. Know how to shut off the electricity in affected areas. Educate your employees and family on how to do this safely and correctly.
2. Examine outside doors and windows.
• Outside doors and windows are exposed to any and every storm. Ensure all door handles and knobs as well as window locks are still working properly. This can help prevent more water from entering and deter possible break ins.
3. Disinfect contaminated surfaces.
• Remove all contaminated material when cleaning after a storm, particularly after a flood. Cleaning the contaminated areas helps to prevent the spread from infected areas to other surfaces.
4. Restore plumbing and water line.
• After storm damage, specifically flooding, water lines can be clogged or cause them to back flow. By ensuring they are clear, you can limit the chance of closures and odor issues.

For any and all of your cleanup needs after a water, mold, or fire damage call SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441. 

A/C Water Damages

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

With the temperatures reaching well over 100 degrees for the past week our air conditioners have been working over time in North Texas. If air conditioner units are not properly maintained then you may be at risk for a water damage, especially with the current temperatures. An air conditioning system can collect up to 10-20 gallons of water daily. If the system is not working properly, either due to a clog or a drain, the unit will produce too much water and potentially cause a water damage.  

Units are not typically in easily accessed place, so a water damage may be occurring unbeknownst to the owner. This can result in costly mold damage that can affect an entire home. Follow these tips to help maintain your unit and prevent water damages in your home:

1. Consider having a professional air conditioning repair service to clean the condensation line at least once a year or every six months if the AC system is used on a year-round basis. 
2. Make sure to change the air filter every month. By changing the air filter monthly, it gives you the opportunity to check whether there is excessive moisture collecting on the condensation line. 
3. It is important to regularly check to see that water is indeed flowing from the opening of the condensation line directly to the drain as it was designed to do, especially during periods of very high humidity.

If you experience a water damage at your home or business call SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441.

Drying a Water Damage

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its former condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a few fans or two around the damaged area, this can actually lead to secondary damages like mold. Our SERVPRO professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any of these secondary damages. If your business suffers a water damage, we will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet material and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment. 

What exactly does it mean to help "speed up Mother Nature?" A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material-but only if the air is, indeed, drier. 

The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out. 

SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals have the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to hep dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. We also use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business. 

It's not only the equipment, but the technology too. SERVPRO has developed DryBook, a proprietary tool that provides real-time documentation and updates on the drying process and helps ensure industry drying requirements are met. With DryBook Mobile, you have the ability to know exactly where your property is in the drying process. 

The bottom line? SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals have the training and equipment to help make water damage "Like it never even happened." Call us anytime at 972-496-2441!

Preventing Mold - Controlling Humidity, Temperature, and Ventilation

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

The key to preventing and stopping indoor mold growth is to control excessive moisture and condensation. Keeping susceptible areas in the home clean and dry is critical. In general, mold will not grow indoors without water, dampness or excessive moisture.

Three main factors contribute to condensation of water on building surfaces:

• Relative Humidity: Condensation occurs when the air is saturated with water and it cannot hold any more moisture. For example, steam generated from bathroom showers or from cooking can fill up the air with moisture, which will then condense into drops of water on cooler surfaces, such as mirrors and windows. Where possible, localized sources of humidity, such as clothes dryers, should be directly vented to the outdoors. To lower indoor humidity during warm, humid weather, air conditioners should be used.
• Temperature: Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. Condensation occurs when warm humid air comes into contact with a cold surface and the moisture condenses into water. This can often be seen on single-pane windows, where water condenses and then runs down, causing the wood frames and sills to rot and the wall under the windows to blister.
• Poor Ventilation: Indoor humidity can build up if there is not enough ventilation and exchange of indoor and outdoor air. Where there is little or no air movement, such as behind dressers and cabinets, surfaces can remain cooler than surrounding areas, which can lead to increased condensation and mold growth. It is recommended that the area is ventilated and the occupants use exhaust fans (vented to the outdoors) to remove moisture from high-humidity areas, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas. Furniture should be moved slightly away from walls so that air can freely pass behind it. Air should be allowed to circulate between rooms and regularly ventilate to remove humid air. Fans should be used as needed.

Other things that can be done are to clean and repair gutters regularly, make sure the ground slopes down and away from the home’s foundation and keep air conditioner drip pans and drain lines clean. In addition, in air conditioned buildings in hot and humid climates, vinyl wall coverings on the interior sides of exterior walls should not be used, as these materials can trap moisture, resulting in mold growth underneath them.

In the case of floods or leaking pipes, any standing water should be promptly removed and water-damaged materials should either be dried out and cleaned, or removed and replaced. Porous materials that are wet for more than 48 hours are likely to produce mold growth and should be discarded. In instances where the water damage is extensive, it is recommended that you call SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441, so that we may assist you in preventing growth after a water damage, or remove the mold if it is already an issue.

Emergency Supply Kit

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen anytime, anywhere. In North Texas we are particularly prone to experiencing severe weather throughout every season. 

Approximately 98% of all disasters declared emergent by the president are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. Preparing an emergency supply kit can help keep you and your family safe if you're ever caught in an severe storm situation. 

Build an Emergency Supply Kit

• Water (1 gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Dust masks or bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container

Contact SERVPRO of North Garland for more readiness tips and tools, including SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile (ERP). Having an ERP in place for your facility can help minimize business interruption in the event of a disaster.

Kitchen Fire Safety

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Firefighters work to put out a house fire.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. Follow these tips to create a safer cooking environment: 

• Be alert! If you are tired or have consumed alcohol don’t use the oven or stove.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire – oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains – away from the stovetop.
• Keep an easily accessible fire extinguisher somewhere in your kitchen. 

If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 911 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you are cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave a pan covered until it is completely cooled. Never add water to a grease fire!

If you have experienced a kitchen fire call the professionals at SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441.

Speed Up Your Restoration Process

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

For a property owner, a fire or water damage can be disastrous. It not only results in property and inventory loss, but oftentimes it also means a temporary loss of business. When you're depending on that business for your own livelihood or your employees then you don't have months to spare during a long drawn out restoration process. 

In the aftermath of a disaster, quick response time can help minimize property damage as well as inventory or content loss. Here are some tips to help you be prepared for both a disaster and a quick turn around in the restoration process. 

1) Download the SERVPRO READY Plan App.

The SERVPRO Ready Plan mobile application provides home and business owners with a quick and convenient way to call in SERVPRO professionals when disaster strikes. The Ready Plan app is a free emergency preparedness tool offered by SERVPRO and  it can be downloaded on any smartphone. 

For more information on the SERVPRO READY Plan mobile app and how it can help you be more prepared, contact SERVPRO of North Garland professionals at 972-496-2441. Don't wait for a disaster to happen to download this app, do it today!

2) Call SERVPRO of North Garland 

Our professionals are highly trained and are prepared for any situation. They will be on scene within hours to assess and begin working to get your business back to normal. The sooner a SERVPRO professional is on the scene, the sooner your restoration process can begin. 

3) Call your insurance agent and start documenting damage and inventory.

Without risking your safety, try and document any areas or items that may have been affected in the disaster. This will help both the SERVPRO professionals - so they know what to target - and your insurance agent - so they can start preparing the claim. 

With help from SERVPRO of North Garland your business can be back up and running quickly. If you experience a water or fire damage, mold, or any other kind of disaster call us anytime on our 24-hour emergency phone line 972-496-2441. 

Tornado Knowledge

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Tornado

Since North Texas is located in "Tornado Alley" - an area of North America prone to tornadoes includes the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota - many of us that live here are used to dealing with the threats that tornadoes provide, but is our knowledge really up to scratch? Since we are currently in the middle of tornado season, mid-March through June (although tornadoes can occur at anytime of the year), check out these tips to see if you know everything you need to know about staying safe during a tornado. 

• You should NOT open windows during a tornado. It is a common myth that it equalizes the pressure in your house; however, it does not do anything other than cause you to spend precious time outside of your shelter area. Doors should also not be opened, as it makes it easier for dangerous debris to fly into the house. 
• Always pick an interior room, on a ground floor, and without windows as a shelter. If it is an option try to be in a room close to the north or northwest side of your home as tornadoes approach from the southwest typically. Hide under a sturdy piece of furniture or in a bath tub within your shelter area. 
• Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 PM and 9 PM, but can occur at anytime. 
• A tornado watch means that the conditions are right for a tornado, while a warning means that a tornado has touched down or there is circulation in your area. You should seek shelter immediately if a warning is issued. 
• Never seek shelter under an overpass if you are driving during a tornado situation. Try to get off of the road and into a building as soon as possible. Many tornadoes can easily move cars, so you could be blown out from under an overpass or it could collapse on top of you. 

If you experience any damage to your home or business during this storm season call SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441.

Preventing Grill Fires

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

As we get further into summer more and more people will be lighting up their grills family gatherings and holidays. While it may not seem like an outdoor grill would pose much of a risk to your home, without the proper safety precautions a barbecue can cause extensive fire and smoke damage to your home. The following tips can help you reduce the risk of a grill fire at your home this summer:

• Inspect the propane tank for holes or loose hoses before using. Periodically check the hose for holes by submerging it in soapy water. If any bubbles form the hose should be replaced.
• Keep the grill at a safe distance from the home and any flammable items. Never grill under any kind of overhang like a garage or a porch. 
• Always keep a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location not too far from the grilling area. 
• Never leave a lit grill unattended, especially around children or animals that could easily knock it over.
• Use tools with long handles to keep a safe distance from the flame, and avoid wearing any clothing items that may easily catch fire (i.e. long, baggy sleeves)
• Always clean a grill after use, while its still hot, with a wire brush to avoid accumulations of fatty, greasy materials. Periodically check and empty any trays below the grill that may collect grease. 
• If you use lighter fluid to light a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluid. Never add the fluid to a flame, add it before lighting the grill. 

If you experience any fire or smoke damage this summer call SERVPRO of North Garland anytime at 972-496-2441.

Mold Remediation Steps

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in ceiling tiles.

When there's a water intrusion, like a roof leak or a broken water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can affect your health and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of North Garland professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different, requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a "typical" mold removal process. 

Step 1 - Call SERVPRO of North Garland

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us, SERVPRO of North Garland, at 972-496-2441. One of our representatives will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources and personnel needed.

Step 2 - Inspection & Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold grows best in dark, moist areas with a food source (drywall, wood, etc.), so the areas that promote growth in homes are often out of sight. 

Step 3 - Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Step 4 - Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO of North Garland technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Step 5 - Removing Mold & Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth. 

Step 6 - Cleaning Contents & Belongings

SERVPRO of North Garland cleans your furniture, decorative items, curtains and any other items affected by mold. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. We are also able to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment. 

Step 7 - Restoration

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

SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals understand mold growth, and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business. Call us now if you suspect mold growth in your home at 972-496-2441.

SERVPRO Resource for Property Owners

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

There is no disaster that hits home quite like a disaster to your property or business. When you have suffered a fire, water, or mold damage, you don't have time to waste searching for a company to fix your property. When disaster strikes, you can depend on SERVPRO of North Garland. Whether the job is big or small we will be there to help make it "Like it never even happened" so you can get your business up and running as soon as possible.

As a resource for commercial property managers, SERVPRO produces Restoration Newsline each month. In the issues of Restoration Newsline, you will find priceless information that can benefit you as a business owner. This includes suggestions on handling water and fire damages, advice regarding air quality, tips on dealing with the damage from difficult tenants, and much more. If you are interested in receiving a copy of Restoration Newsline each month, please call our office anytime. We have both physical and online copies available.

If you're in need of cleanup and restoration services, call SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441.

What To Do After a Fire: Dealing With the Damage

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

From the first call to 911 to calling in a remediation team, dealing with a fire is extremely overwhelming and stressful. After the fire has been put out it can be hard to know what your next steps should be, so here are a few tips on what you can do to get your life and home back to normal as quick as possible. 

1. Call in your local SERVPRO remediation specialists. A fire can result in multiple types of damage to your home or business, including water, so call in the professionals who have years of experience in all realms of restoration. 

2. Call your insurance agent in order to get your insurance claim rolling, and to find out important information such as coverage provisions, emergency housing options, etc. If you are a tenant, call your landlord so that they know to get in touch with their insurance agent.

3. Do not enter the home until a fire fighter has assured it is safe for you to do so. Once inside try to limit your movement around the home so soot particles are not spread or embedded. Also avoid touching anything to avoid soiling previously clean areas. 

4. Carefully move any undamaged items that are at risk in the effected area (i.e. television at risk for water damage) to a safe zone if possible.  

Our SERVPRO professionals will be onsite within just a couple of hours after a call to begin the cleanup. We work with insurance agents to ensure that people get their homes or businesses back to normal as quickly as possible. If you experience a fire, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441 anytime of the day or night. 

Preparing Your Pipes

2/1/2018 (Permalink)

Pipes on an outdoor wall with additional insulation to prevent them from freezing.

Quick Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes

Living in North Texas, we don’t have to deal with the months of freezing temperatures that are typical in the northern parts of the country; however, we unfortunately still deal with frozen pipes on a regular basis. Homes in warmer climates tend to lack the insulation that is the standard in places with frigid winter temperatures, so whenever we experience freezing weather pipes are quickly frozen if precautions have not been taken. Frozen pipes are inconvenient and problematic. Along with preventing water flow into your home, they regularly burst and cause costly damages. Be better prepared for the next arctic blast by following these frozen pipe prevention tips:

• Keep faucets dripping to relieve pressure and prevent the pipes from freezing. Particularly important over night when your plumbing system is not being used frequently and the temperature is dropping.
• Disconnect hoses on outdoor faucets and use faucet covers to prevent them from freezing.
• Seal any leaks that might be allowing cold air inside your house, especially in areas that are close to pipes.
• If you have some particularly vulnerable pipes you can use heat tape. Heat tape and heat cables are electrically powered heat sources that you wrap around pipes that are at risk for freezing. Like using any other type of heater, they will need to be monitored to ensure their safe use.
• Try to keep your house at a constant temperature all day and night. Many people turn down thermostats when they go to bed, but night time is when your pipes are most likely to freeze. Opening cabinet doors, especially at night, allows the warm air in your home to circle around pipes and reduce their risk of freezing.
• Additional insulation is one of the best choices when preparing your house for winter weather. Any pipes on outdoor walls or in areas with less insulation (i.e. attic) may need some foam or fiberglass sleeves from your local hardware store. Insulation will always be less expensive than a water damage, so the more insulation the better.

If you do experience a burst pipe this winter, call SERVPRO of North Garland. We are a 24-hour emergency service business, and can have a professional on site within hours to help you get your home back to normal. Call us anytime at 972-496-2441.

Call the Cleanup Team that is FASTER TO ANY SIZE DISASTER

7/24/2017 (Permalink)

There's no such thing as a small disaster - especially when the water you don't see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot, and other unseen damage. Water damage can affect the value of your property. Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage can affect your property.

SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals know how disruptive water damage can be for you business. SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals are trained and equipped to manage the drying process. By utilizing the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, your building will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards, which will help prevent secondary water damages. With rapid response time and full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals can help you regain control quickly, by helping to ensure your facility and its contents are properly dried, deodorized, and protected.

Before you risk further damaging the value of your facility by attempting to clean the mess yourself, call SERVPRO of North Garland, your local water damage cleanup and restoration professionals, at 972-496-2441.

Be Prepared: Tsunamis

7/24/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know tsunamis can hit any U.S. Coast? While they are more likely to hit states on the Pacific coastline or in the Caribbean, it is good to know what to do if a tsunami does strike where you live, or even where you may vacation.

Ready.gov says "tsunamis, also known as seismic sea waves (mistakenly called "tidal waves"), are a series of enormous waves created by an underwater disturbance such as an earthquake, landslide, volcanic eruption, or meteorite." Areas within a mile of the coast and less than 25 feet above sea level have a greater risk of being hit. 

As with any emergency, be sure you have a plan. know the evacuation plan and move inland or to higher ground and avoid the beach. "The first wave may not be the last or the largest," according to the National Weather Service. 

After a tsunami, do not return to the affected area until officials deem it safe. While drowning is the most common hazard, there are many aftereffects such as flooding and contaminated drinking water.

For more information on preparing for a tsunami, visit ready.gov/tsunamis.

The Science of Drying

7/24/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a few fans or two around the damaged area, you local SERVPRO, SERVPRO of North Garland, professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. If your business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet material and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment. 

What exactly does it mean to help "speed up Mother Nature?" A wet building  can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material-but only if the air is, indeed, drier. 

The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out. 

SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals have the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to hep dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals also use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business. 

It's not only the equipment, but the technology too. SERVPRO has developed DryBook, a proprietary tool that provides real-time documentation and updates on the drying process and helps ensure industry drying requirements are met. With DryBook Mobile, you have the ability to know exactly where your property is in the drying process. 

The bottom line? Your local SERVPRO, SERVPRO of North Garland, Professionals have the training and equipment to help make water damage "Like it never even happened."

Carbon Monoxide: A Silent Killer

7/24/2017 (Permalink)

You can't see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels, it can kill a person in minutes. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide, or CO, is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas, created when fuels, like gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas and propane burn incompletely. 

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning. It is estimated another 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized due to CO poisoning. All people and animals are at risk for CO poisoning, with some groups - including unborn babies, infants, and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or respiratory problems - being more susceptible to the effects of carbon monoxide. 

An excess of CO, leading to CO poisoning, can result from faulty furnaces or other heating appliances, portable generators, water heaters, clothes dryers, or idling cars left running in garages. 

Taking some basic, precautionary steps can help eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Protect yourself by reviewing the following tips, provided by the United States Fire Administration.

• Have fuel-burning appliances, like oil and gas furnaces, gas or kerosene heaters, fire places and wood stoves inspected by a trained professional every year. 
• open the damper for proper ventilation before using a fireplace. Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home. 
• Make sure all fuel-burning vented equipment is vented to the outside to avoid CO poisoning. Keep the venting for exhaust clear and unblocked. 
• If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Never run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even it garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice , or other materials. 
• Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris. 
• Only use barbecue grills outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings. Some grills can produce CO gas. Never use grills inside the home or the garage, even if the doors are open.
• Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows, vents and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home. 

Benefits of Mitigation

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals can save you from higher property damage costs!

1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines

SERVPRO’s 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines help ensure timely communication and response. Quick and accurate response can minimize loss expenses from secondary damages.

• 1. Within one hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals will contact you to arrange for service.
• 4. Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO of North Garland Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services (if necessary).
• 8. Within 8 business hours, a verbal briefing of the scope of work will be communicated to the property manager or point of contact by a SERVPRO of North Garland Professional.

Restore Versus Replace - SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals strive to restore items to preloss condition. This helps lower mitigation and restoration costs while allowing treasured belongings to be salvaged when possible.

Pretesting - Through pretesting, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals can determine the extent of the damage, treating only the affected area to reduce job costs, restoration expenses and business disruption.

Inventory Analysis - The Inventory Analysis helps clients and tenants keep records of items and belongings, making the claims process easier should a disaster occur.

Contents Claim Inventory Service - CCIS provides itemized room-by-room loss inventory, allowing clients, tenants, insurance agents and adjusters to document claim items and capture inventory items immediately.

Electronic File Documentation Complete with Loss Reports - Online access is available to all files, information and proof of results, allowing the information to be easily transferrable to various parties involved.

24/7 Call Center - Prompt work order handling and dispatch don’t have to wait for daylight. Utilizing SERVPRO’s 24/7 Call Center, emergency services can begin as soon as possible, helping minimize additional loss, downtime and expense.

Large Loss Capabilities – Catastrophic Loss Response Team - With hundreds of trained crews manned with thousands of pieces of commercial equipment and service vehicles, SERVPRO’s Large Loss Response Teams can initiate response to any sized loss in any part of the country within hours.

Professional Reassurance and Consistency - As leaders in cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals strive to maintain a professional appearance in uniform, equipment, vehicles and cleaning methods to help convey “Green means clean!”

National Accounts Guidelines (for National Accounts Insurance Clients) - To assure to our clients they will receive consistent, professional service and performance across the country, the National Accounts Guidelines require completed job files, detailed communication and much more from SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals.

More than 1,700 Franchises located in North America - SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals are nearby, ready to respond quickly. The faster restoration begins, the quicker our customers can return to business.

SERVPRO Mold Mitigation Services

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals can help provide a solution to your property’s mold damage needs.

Buildings with excessive moisture can be breeding grounds for mold growth. If your facility has experienced an ongoing moisture problem due to water intrusion, long-standing leaks, roof damage or from poor humidity control, it is important to be alert to the following factors:

• The presence of visible mold.
• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.
• Any evidence of past moisture problem that might indicate previous mold growth.
• Excessive humidity.

Should mold be found within the facility, mold removal and remediation can help eliminate a potentially dangerous situation. SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals will arrive on-site alert for any visible signs of mold. Following industry standards for mold remediation, they will work to remove visible mold and reduce the potential for future mold growth.

Are your Ducts in Order?

6/1/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know, your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? Inspecting the ductwork in your facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO of North Garland Professional’s service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

If you have a fuel burning furnace, stove or fireplace, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning, and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System is proven and cost efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

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

For more information on duct cleaning, or schedule an appointment, contact us, SERVPRO of North Garland, at 972-496-2441.

Mold, Biohazard, Crime Scene, and Vandalism Cleanup

6/1/2017 (Permalink)

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals also offer fast, reliable mold, biohazard, and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers, and owners. A failure to property handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA and state and local health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safely equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.

SERVPRO of North Garland can help with the following issues:

• Bloodborne Pathogens
  • Removal and disposal of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.
• Methamphetamine Labs
  • Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs, such a methamphetamine, are volatile and can leave harmful residue throughout a structure. SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.
• Crime Scene Residues
  • From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residue, our technicians can clean and restore your property and contents.
• Arson and Vandalism
  • We are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. We also provide general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods, and human or animal waste.
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

State and local regulations vary. Contact us, SERVPRO of North Garland, at 972-496-2441, today for 24-hour emergency services.

Understanding the Behavior of Smoke

5/31/2017 (Permalink)

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke. There are two different types of smoke – wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows SERVPRO of North Garland to focus on saving your precious items.

SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following are additional facts you may not know about smoke.

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

Different Types of Smoke

Wet Smoke (Plastic and Rubber)

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

Dry Smoke (Paper and Wood)

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

Protein Fire Residue (Produced by evaporation of materials rather than from a fire)

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

Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Backs)

While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

Other Types (Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue)

Special loss situations require special care.

SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals are trained to handle even the toughest losses. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact us, at 972-496-2441, to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Celebrate Safely with a Recipe for Safety

5/31/2017 (Permalink)

Each holiday season, families gather to celebrate by preparing delicious feasts, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.

• Be alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire – oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains – away from the stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 911 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you are cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave a pan covered until it is completely cooled.

SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals wish you a safe a happy holiday season.

Be Storm Smart, Be Storm Ready

5/31/2017 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen anytime, anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms:

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,000 tornadoes
• 2 landfalling deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98% of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

Know Your Risk. The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.

Take Action. Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.

Be an Example. Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers and family and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your preparedness story will inspire others to do the same.

Build an Emergency Supply Kit

• Water (1 gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Dust masks or bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container

Contact SERVPRO of North Garland for more readiness tips and tools, including SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile (ERP). Having an ERP in place for your facility can help minimize business interruption in the event of a disaster.

Help at Your Fingertips

5/31/2017 (Permalink)

For a property owner, a disaster scenario involving fire or water damage can seem unthinkable and then suddenly become a reality. In the aftermath of a disaster, quick response time can help minimize property damage as well as inventory or content loss.

The SERVPRO READY Plan mobile application provides home and business owners with a quick and convenient way to call in SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals when disaster strikes.

The Ready Plan app is a free emergency preparedness tool offered by SERVPRO and can be downloaded on you Android, iPhone, or Blackberry.

The application allows both residential and commercial property owners and managers to create an Emergency READY Profile containing critical facility information that can help speed up response time after fire or water damage occurs. In addition to property details, the application tracks prior loss history, utility shut off locations, and key contacts; stores photos of the damage; and integrates local weather forecasts and more including the address and contact information for the user’s local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals.

Through the application, the user can quickly call their local SERVPRO Franchise Professional or submit an electronic “First Notice of Loss” to the SERVPRO National Call Center setting the wheels of recovery in motion. Rapid response from a disaster cleanup and restoration specialist can help the property owner evaluate options, start the insurance process and take the right steps from the beginning to bring the property back to normal, “Like it never even happened.”

The SERVPRO Ready Plan mobile app places a convenient preparedness tool right at your fingertips. Disasters are unpredictable and frequently strike without warning. That is why SERVPRO’s READY Plan mobile app is so valuable. In the confusion and panic that often surround a disaster, a property owner or manger can reach out for expert help right from the scene, using their cell phones.

For more information on the SERVPRO READY Plan mobile app and how it can help you be more prepared, contact SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals.

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

5/31/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.

Review the following tips regarding smoke detectors installation and maintenance. For more on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Smoke alarms should be installed away from kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using a test button.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm “chirps,” the battery is low and should be replaced right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

The Mold Mitigation & Remediation Process

5/23/2017 (Permalink)

When there's a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can affect your health and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of North Garland professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different, requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a "typical" mold removal process. 

Call SERVPRO of North Garland

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us, SERVPRO of North Garland, at 972-496-2441. One of our representatives will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources and personnel needed.

Inspection & Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water which can be hidden from plain view. 

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be places to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO of North Garland technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Removing Mold & Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth. 

Cleaning Contents & Belongings

SERVPRO of North Garland cleans your furniture, decorative items, curtains and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment. 

Restoration

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

SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals understand mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business. 

Flooding can happen anywhere

5/22/2017 (Permalink)

Call the cleanup team that is faster to any size disaster.

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA). "Approximately 75% of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding." NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States are:

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Just because you haven't experienced a flood doesn't mean you won't in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the US, and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).

When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals can help! They can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP), or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in business as soon as possible. 

SERVPRO of North Garland Professionals are ready to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Extreme Heat

5/22/2017 (Permalink)

As summer approaches, it is time to consider safety precautions for extreme heat in the coming months. Heat affects all people, but especially the young, elderly, sick and overweight. Urban area residents also have a greater chance of being affected than those who live in rural areas due to the heat island effect. 

According to the EPA, "the sun can heat dry, exposed urban surfaces, such as roofs an pavements, to temperatures 50-90 degrees F hotter than the air, while shaded or moist surfaces - often in more rural surroundings - remain close to air temperatures." These surface heat islands are strongest during the day when the sun is shining, while the atmospheric heat islands are more likely after sunset "due to the slow release of heat from urban infrastructure."

Whether you are in an urban or rural area, there are several things you can do to prepare for and prevent extreme heat from affecting you. If possible, stay indoors in air conditioning. Be sure to check on your pets who may be outdoors or bring them inside. Stay hydrated and limit alcohol and caffeine intake.

If you must go outside, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and be sure to apply sunscreen often. Pay attention to signs of heat exhaustion, which are heavy sweating; weakness; cold, pale, and clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; fainting, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which is life-threatening. Signs of heat stroke are a high body temperature (103+), rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness. If you think someone has heat stroke, call 911 immediately and move the person somewhere cool. Reduce body temperature with cool, wet cloths or a bath. Do not give a person with heat strokes fluids, and treat the situation as a serious medical emergency (CDC).

If you live in a humid climate, be aware of the heat index. The heat index factors in the humidity, which can make the temperature feel 15 degrees hotter.

Extreme heat is a serious danger. For more information on preparation and prevention, visit ready.gov or cdc.gov. 

Water Damage: What To Do and Not Do Until Help Arrives

2/8/2017 (Permalink)

We have specialized equipment for any disaster especially water damages. We will restore all your content and make it "Like it never even happened."

As you all might know, SERVPRO of North Garland is a cleanup and restoration company. We work on everything from water damages, such as a floods or water heater leaks, to biohazard cleanups, such as crime or sewage cleanups. 

We are that company you wish you never have to contact, but in case of an emergency, we are here to help. Here are a few Emergency Tips that will assist you in taking the proper action during a water damage until your SERVPRO professional arrives:

WATER DAMAGE FROM A CLEAN WATER

DO:

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electric shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by moping or blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
• Hand furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

DON'T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.
• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possible causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

WATER DAMAGE FROM CONTAMINATED WATER

DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.

DON"T:

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
• Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possiblity of spreading contaminated air.
• Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

Please follow these DOs and DON"Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration. 

What do you consider water damage?

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of N. Garland, we have the right equipment and highly trained team to do the job. Call us at 972-496-2441.

We are not talking about phone water damage because the whole world knows you put the phone in a bag covered in rice, the rice absorbs the moisture and your phone is almost as good as new (key word: almost). But we are talking about a large scale water loss like what comes after a flood.

Water damage can be so many things but you know if you have water damage if there is rooting of wood, growth (mold), rusting of steel, and delaminating of material such as plywood. For some folks, it is a minor water damage like a stain in the ceiling from water coming in after a rain, but for others it is a bit more catastrophic like with a flood where water comes in and there is no stopping it.

Other than a flood, there are more causes for water damage. There can be a broken dishwasher hose, or maybe a washing machine overflow. It could also be broken or leaking pipes or maybe a clogged toilet. All of these and more could be causes of water damage. I recommend checking all pipes, drains, toilets, and anything that has waterflow or access to water to avoid this loss.

But be careful when going to fix water damage on your own. There are three categories of water and one is safe for you to clean without professional help.

There is “Clean Water” which is water that comes from a broken water supply line and a tub or sink overflowing. This is safe to clean on your own. The second it “Grey Water” which is water that comes with some degree of chemicals and microorganisms that contaminate and can cause health problems if consumed in any way. This water can be coming from toilets overflowing, a sump pump failure and water discharge from a dishwasher or washing machine. The last category is called “Black Water” and this is the gross, unsanitary water that comes from sewages, rising waters from streams and rivers, and standing water. “Grey Water” if not properly cleaned up can become “Black Water.”

In sure there are other cleanup companies that can do all the work but I can tell you with certainty no one will make it look "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO of North Garland is at your service! If you have any questions or concerns about potential water damage in your home or business, give us a call at 972-496-2441 and we will gladly come out and figure out what you need. If you need our services, we will make sure it looks "Like it never even happened."

What is Black Mold?

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

This is what Black Mold looks like. If you think you have it, call us.

Also knowns as Stachbotrys chartanum or Stachbotrys atra, is a species of toxic mold or fungus. This kind of mold survives and thrives off moisture areas. It appears dark greenish-black (sometimes gray) in color and no other mold looks the same. You might ask, well does it have an odor? Yes it does. It has a musty smell and if it is in one affected area, that area will smell the most but if it is in the air ducts, when the air is cycling through that is when you will smell it. You might also be wondering, well how does post help me in any way?

Wll September 29th is World Health Day according to Days of the Year and I want to bring to your attention the symptoms Black Mold causes for your safety. You know how it rained and some water came in through the walls and you have been putting off fixing it or calling someone to fix it? Well it is time to fix it. Like mentioned before, Mold grows and survives off moist areas and that drywall water damage is prime. Black Mold can causes serious problems in a person: respiratory distress, kidney discomfort, memory loss, excessive fatigue, immune system suppression and redness of the eyes, just to name a few.

After reading this you might be either scared and ready to fix any water damage you’ve been putting off, but slow down for a bit. Black Mold, if not contained properly, can cause bigger problems. If the affected area is in the bathroom and it is not contained and some black mold flies into the vents at home, now the whole house could be infected.

If you think you have Black Mold in your home or business, I recommend to call a professional mold remediation company to handle the problem. And as you know, SERVPRO of North Garland is certified to do this kind of job. If you have any questions or concerns about this topic, give us a call at 972-496-2441 and we will gladly help.

September 29th is World Health Day and we are concerned for everyone’s health. We want to make you aware of Black Mold for your safety.

How do I recover from Storm Damage?

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

Call us, SERVPRO of North Garland, at 972-496-2441! We can help!

Imagine your house has been attacked by a huge storm. The strong winds broke windows, blew doors open, caused some roof destruction. The rain can now creep inside your home, the place where your family is, and can cause more damage. No one wants to imagine anything happening to their homes, especially their family, but in case of an emergency, we have to. We have to be prepared for whatever comes.

Here are some tips recommended by Cintas to minimize the results of storm damage on your home or business.

1. Consider safety hazards.
1. Watch out for loose debris. Know how to shut off the electricity in affected areas. Educate your employees and family on how to do this safely and correctly.
2. Examine outside doors and windows.
1. Outside doors and windows have easy access to the storm. Ensure the door handles and knobs as well as window locks are still working properly. This can help prevent more water entering and possible break ins.
3. Disinfect contaminated surfaces.
1. Remove all contaminated material when cleaning after a storm. Cleaning the contaminated areas will help not spread the infected areas to other surfaces.
4. Restore plumbing and water line.
1. After storm damage, specifically flooding, water lines can be clogged or cause them to backflow. By ensuring they are clear, it can limit the chance of closures and odor issues.

For some of these tips, oneself doesn’t have the experience to do all the work. You can contact your insurance agent and they can find contractors and cleanup crews to do the job. If by any chance you are not happy with who they have chosen, give us a call, SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441 and we will gladly do all the dirty work for you.

Hope these helped. These are just a few tips on how to recover from storm damage.

Quick Tips from SERVPRO of North Garland to prevent Water Damage

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

We have the necessary equipment for any loss, especially water. Call us if you need us, 972-496-2441.

Remember last year, May 2015, when the whole month it rained and the DFW area was flooded? 2015 was the wettest year on record for the DFW area. In the entire year, we had 62.61 inches of rain; in just the month of May we had a new record high of 16.96 inches of rainfall! And now we are close to the end of 2016 and the rain doesn't seem to end. And all that water didn’t just disappear, oh no it went into our roads, parks, buildings and even into our homes with our families. Here are some tips to prevent water damage the next time mother nature decides to run out of tears.

To prevent water damage, follow these tips to avoid costly repairs:

#1. Ensure good drainage:

• Clean your gutters.
• Direct downspouts 5-10’ away from the house.
• Slope your yard away from the foundation.

Your maintenance costs would be very little. Cleaning the gutters is a no-cost DIY project, but if you would like to hire someone to do the dirty works, the costs would be between $50-$250. To slope your yard away from foundation, there will have to be some additional top soil to create a slope.

If you were to put it off, the foundation could settle cracking the basement walls and the cost to stabilize would be around $15,000-$40,000.

#2. Test your sump pump:

• Check your sump pump once a year.
• Test more frequently during storm season.

To test your sump pump is free. But if you need a new one, including installation costs, would be around $150-$350.

If you were to put it off, the basement could flood, ruining everything you own including drywall and flooring. Some insurances don’t cover flooding and if you keep putting it off, you run the risk of mold and mildew which can turn into a very expensive problem very quickly.

#3. Fix water leaks:

• Repair any noticeable dripping pipes.
• Check for dark spots under pipes and on ceilings.
• Repair any cracked caulking.
• Inspect the roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles.

Maintenance costs could be to contact a plumber would be $250 or for a roof repair a few hundred dollars to $1,000.

If you were to put it off, water drips will ruin the cabinets under the kitchen sink and run down the floor sheathing and joists underneath, so structural repairs plus new kitchen cabinets and flooring will be needed. If the roof rots, a new roof will need to be in place as well as repairs in the rooms directly beneath.

Following these three steps is a good start to preventing water damage. For some extra tips or in need of some repairs due to water damage, contact us, SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441.

Commercial Fire Restoration and Cleaning from SERVPRO of North Garland

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Garland are experts in Commercial Fire cleaning and deodorization. Call us at 972-496-2441 to get your business up and running again.

Commercial Smoke and Odor Cleaning

One of the major issues after a large scale fire (or a small one for that matter) is cleaning the contents and structure after the loss. This is done in order to eliminate the smoke odor that lingers on everything the smoke touches. On a recent commercial job SERVPRO of North Garland needed to clean a massive 55,000 sq ft facility after they experienced a fire. After considering all our available options; hand cleaning, sandblasting, and dry-ice blasting, we determined that dry-ice blasting would be the best decision given the requirements of this particular job.

What is Dry Ice Blasting (Cleaning)?

Dry ice blasting is known by several names: dry ice blasting, dry ice cleaning, CO2 blasting, dry ice dusting, and even environmentally sustainable cleaning. Dry ice blasting is an efficient and cost-effective way for industries to maximize production capability and quality. Dry ice blasting is similar to sand blasting, plastic bead blasting or soda blasting where media is accelerated in a pressurized air stream to impact a surface to be cleaned or prepared. But that's where the similarity ends.

Instead of using hard abrasive media to grind on a surface (and damage it), dry ice blasting uses soft dry ice, accelerated at supersonic speeds, and creates mini-explosions on the surface to lift the undesirable item off the underlying substrate. If you want to read all the technical details, see the How CO2 Blasting Works page.

Why Dry Ice Blasting?

• is a non-abrasive, nonflammable and nonconductive cleaning method
• is environmentally responsible and contains no secondary contaminants such as solvents or grit media
• allows most items to be cleaned in place without time-consuming disassembly
• can be used without damaging active electrical or mechanical parts or creating fire hazards
• can be as gentle as dusting smoke damage from books or as aggressive as removing weld slag from tooling
• can be used for many general cleaning applications

Dry ice blasting uses compressed air to accelerate frozen carbon dioxide (CO2) "dry ice" pellets to a high velocity. A compressed air supply of 80 PSI/50 CFM can be used in this process. Dry ice pellets can be made on-site or supplied. Pellets are made from food grade carbon dioxide that has been specifically approved by the FDA, EPA, and USDA.

Carbon dioxide is a non-poisonous, liquefied gas, which is both inexpensive and easily stored at work sites.

We are very experienced at using this and other types of processes in order to mitigate any malodors from any type of commercial loss. If you or your company have experienced any type of issue, give SERVPRO of North Garland a call at 972-496-2441.

Quick Tips from SERVPRO of North Garland on Preventing Mold Growth

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

Growth can occur in anyone's home. If you think you might have an issue, give us a call and we will be able to assist.

The rainy season has arrived, and with that the opportunity for mold growth presents itself. Due to this, we recommend that you call SERVPRO of North Garland at the first signs of any moisture or growth.  If you have discovered mold in your Dallas area home or office, we are here to help.

How mold gets into a house or building

Mold and fungal spores occur naturally outdoors, where fungi are the earth’s most important recyclers. Indoors, mold needs moisture to grow; it becomes a problem only where there is water damage, elevated and prolonged humidity, or dampness. Common sources in the Dallas area of excessive indoor moisture that can lead to mold problems include:

• flooding from surface waters (i.e., overflowing rivers) or from severe storms;
• roof leaks from damaged or missing roofing materials, blocked gutters;
• storm-driven rain through window frames, exterior walls or door assemblies;
• leaking pipes, sewer back-ups or overflows;
• damp basements or crawl spaces due to a high water table or poorly managed rainwater drainage; and
• condensation on cold surfaces.

How to prevent mold growth

The key to preventing and stopping indoor mold growth is to control excessive moisture and condensation. Keeping susceptible areas in the home clean and dry is critical. In general, mold will not grow indoors without water, dampness or excessive moisture.

Three main factors contribute to condensation of water on building surfaces:

• Relative Humidity: Condensation occurs when the air is saturated with water and it cannot hold any more moisture. For example, steam generated from bathroom showers or from cooking can fill up the air with moisture, which will then condense into drops of water on cooler surfaces, such as mirrors and windows. Where possible, localized sources of humidity, such as clothes dryers, should be directly vented to the outdoors. To lower indoor humidity during warm, humid weather, air conditioners should be used.
• Temperature: Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. Condensation occurs when warm humid air comes into contact with a cold surface and the moisture condenses into water. This can often be seen on single-pane windows, where water condenses and then runs down, causing the wood frames and sills to rot and the wall under the windows to blister.

• Poor Ventilation: Indoor humidity can build up if there is not enough ventilation and exchange of indoor and outdoor air. Where there is little or no air movement, such as behind dressers and cabinets, surfaces can remain cooler than surrounding areas, which can lead to increased condensation and mold growth. It is recommended that the area is ventilated and the occupants use exhaust fans (vented to the outdoors) to remove moisture from high-humidity areas, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas. Furniture should be moved slightly away from walls so that air can freely pass behind it. Air should be allowed to circulate between rooms and regularly ventilate to remove humid air. Fans should be used as needed.

Other things that can be done are to clean and repair gutters regularly, make sure the ground slopes down and away from the home’s foundation and keep air conditioner drip pans and drain lines clean. In addition, in air conditioned buildings in hot and humid climates, vinyl wall coverings on the interior sides of exterior walls should not be used, as these materials can trap moisture, resulting in mold growth underneath them.

In the case of floods or leaking pipes, any standing water should be promptly removed and water-damaged materials should either be dried out and cleaned, or removed and replaced. Porous materials that are wet for more than 48 hours are likely to produce mold growth and should be discarded. In instances where the water damage is extensive, it is recommended that you call SERVPRO of North Garland at 972-496-2441, so that we may assist you in preventing growth after a water damage, or remove the mold if it is already an issue.

Rain is on the way for Dallas, SERVPRO of North Garland

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

Even a little water can cause major damage if not cleaned properly, Call SERVPRO of North Garland, 972-496-2441 to make sure.

At SERVPRO of North Garland we realize a water damage restoration service is the kind of professional that no one wants to call, but when they are needed, it is important not to delay. Most Dallas homeowners know that moisture is often the enemy, capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem. No matter how moisture gets into the building, be it from rain (currently in our Dallas forecast), a burst pipe, or any other reason - the response should be the same. Bring in a certified firm like SERVPRO of North Garland as soon as possible to clean the home, dry it, and ensure there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, never try to handle it on your own. Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill. SERVPRO of Park Cities, a certified water damage restoration service, not only has the tools to eliminate the moisture, they have the protective equipment to remain free from harm.

Our highly trained Dallas restoration technicians have a lot of technology at their disposal. These include powerful vacuums and pumping systems, high volume air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and a number of detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats. While the technicians work on the building, disposing of compromised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live, and a business safe to work in; any other cleaning method is a dangerous gamble.

Winter Weather Readiness

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

Be prepared for the winter weather.

It’s getting to be that time of year again, where Winter Weather is going to start invading our daily life. Winter storms can range from a light snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several hours or more. Icy Conditions are typical within our area, and many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

One of the primary concerns is the winter weather's ability to knock out heat, power, and communications services to your home or office, sometimes for days at a time. Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region as was evident for last years February Storm that shut down DFW for days.

The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as the “Deceptive Killers” because most deaths are indirectly related to the storm. Instead, people die in traffic accidents on icy roads and of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold. So it’s extremely important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes.

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be posting ideas and tips on how to prepare before weather hits, what to do once it’s here, and how to respond after the weather is over, so check back often!

BEFORE WINTER STORMS

To prepare for a winter storm you should do the following:

•    Before winter approaches, add the following supplies to your emergency kit:

o   Rock salt, kitty litter, or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency for a complete list of recommended products.

o   Sand to improve traction.

o   Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.

o   Sufficient heating fuel. You may become isolated in your home and regular fuel sources may be cut off. Store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.

o   Adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.

•    Make a Family Communications Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.
•    A NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts alerts and warnings directly from the NWS for all hazards. You may also sign up in advance to receive notifications from your local emergency services.
•    Download FEMA’s Be Smart. Know Your Alerts and Warnings for a summary of notifications.
•    Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.
•    Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water.

Check back soon for additional information!

Hit at home.

10/20/2014 (Permalink)

On 10/2/2014 our very own SERVPRO was hit with hail and high winds. The roof was blown off of our building, causing damage to our offices and warehouses. Our team pulled together. We worked to temporarily relocate or offices. And, our production staff worked quickly and efficiently to get our warehouse repacked and stored away safely. It was definitely a change, dealing with our own water damage. Luckily, we know we what we are doing! Soon, we will be back in our offices. "Like it never even happened."

BIG thank you for helping us out!

• SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County
• SERVPRO of Pflugerville
• SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett