Water Damage: Understanding the Causes, Effects, and Solutions

10/17/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage is a common and costly issue that affects countless homes and businesses worldwide. Whether caused by natural disasters, plumbing failures, or structural issues, the consequences of water damage can be devastating. In this blog, we will explore the various causes of water damage, understand its effects on properties and belongings, and provide actionable solutions to prevent and mitigate water damage effectively.

Causes of Water Damage

Water damage can stem from a multitude of sources. Heavy rainfall, flash floods, and storm surges are natural causes that can lead to widespread water damage. Plumbing failures, such as burst pipes, leaky faucets, and faulty water heaters, are also common culprits. Additionally, structural issues like roof leaks, foundation cracks, and poorly sealed windows can allow water to seep into buildings. Understanding the causes is crucial in preventing water damage and taking necessary precautions to safeguard properties.

Effects of Water Damage

The effects of water damage can be extensive and far-reaching. Immediate consequences include structural damage to walls, floors, and ceilings, as well as ruined furniture, documents, and personal belongings. Lingering moisture can promote the growth of mold and mildew, which not only deteriorates the building's integrity but also poses risks. Water damage can also disrupt electrical systems, creating fire hazards and potential electrocution risks. Additionally, the increased humidity resulting from water damage can affect the indoor air quality, leading to respiratory issues and exacerbating allergies. Recognizing the effects of water damage is crucial in comprehending the urgency and severity of the situation.

Solutions for Water Damage Prevention and Mitigation

Preventive measures are key to minimizing the risks and effects of water damage. Regular maintenance and inspections can detect potential issues early on and allow for timely repairs. Ensure adequate drainage systems and well-functioning gutters to divert water away from the building. Install sump pumps and water alarms to detect and ward off flood-related issues. Properly insulate pipes, seal windows and doors, and reinforce vulnerable areas to prevent leaks. In cases of severe water damage, immediate action is vital. Professional water extraction, drying, and restoration services can mitigate further damage and salvage affected areas. Being prepared with insurance coverage specific to water damage can also help offset the financial burden of repairs.

Thus, it is crucial for homeowners and businesses to not only focus on immediate mitigation but also invest in proper preventive measures to avoid the long-term repercussions of water damage. It is important to note that water damage can have long-term implications beyond the immediate physical and financial consequences. Understanding the causes, effects, and solutions for water damage empowers homeowners and businesses to protect their properties and belongings. By implementing preventive measures, promptly addressing water-related issues, and seeking professional assistance when needed, the adverse impact of water damage can be significantly mitigated, promoting safer and more resilient living and working environments.

Protecting Yourself During Water Damage Cleanup

10/16/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a homeowner's worst nightmare. Dealing with the aftermath of a flood or a burst pipe requires immediate action to prevent further damage and safeguard your health. While tackling water damage cleanup, it's vital to prioritize your safety. During water damage cleanup, prioritizing your safety is essential. Assess the situation carefully before starting any cleanup activities. Look out for potential hazards such as electrical wires, gas leaks, or structural damage. Turn off the electricity and gas supply to prevent accidents. Wear protective gear like sturdy rubber boots, gloves, and clothing to shield yourself from contaminated water and potential mold growth. 

Assess the Situation

Before starting any cleanup activities, it is crucial to assess the extent of the water damage. Be cautious of any potential hazards such as electrical wires, gas leaks, or structural damage. Turn off the electricity and gas supply to prevent accidents. Wear sturdy rubber boots, gloves, and protective clothing to shield yourself from the contaminated water and potential mold growth.

Remove Water and Moisture

The next step in the cleanup process is to remove standing water as quickly as possible. Use submersible pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to eliminate the water. Ensure you do not overload electrical outlets or use extension cords in the water. Once the water is gone, use dehumidifiers and fans to dry the affected areas thoroughly. Mold can grow within 24-48 hours after water damage, so it's essential to eliminate moisture promptly.

Clean and Disinfect

Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces after water damage is vital to prevent bacterial or mold growth. Use a mixture of mild soap and warm water or a specialized cleaner to sanitize the affected areas. Remember to wear protective goggles and a respirator mask to prevent inhaling any harmful particles. Dispose of any damaged or contaminated items safely, following local regulations.

Seek Professional Help, if Needed

Sometimes, the extent of water damage may require professional assistance. If the water damage is extensive, if there is a risk of structural damage, or if there is potential contamination, contacting a water damage restoration company is recommended. Professionals have the expertise, equipment, and experience to handle complex issues safely. They can also help with mold remediation and preventing further damage.

Water damage can wreak havoc on your property. Taking the necessary precautions and protecting yourself during the cleanup process is crucial. By assessing the situation, removing water and moisture promptly, cleaning and disinfecting, and seeking professional help if needed, you can mitigate the risks and restore your home safely. Remember, your well-being comes first. Take the necessary precautions to protect yourself during water damage cleanup.

Steps to Restoring Your Home and Landscape after Storm Season

9/24/2023 (Permalink)

Storm season in North Carolina can be a challenging time for homeowners. The powerful winds, heavy rains, and potential flooding can cause significant damage to homes and landscapes. Once the storm has passed, the road to recovery begins. In this blog post, we will discuss essential steps to help you restore your home and landscape in the aftermath of hurricane season.

Ensure Safety First

Before you start any restoration work, ensure that your property is safe to enter. Check for any structural damage, downed power lines, or gas leaks. If you encounter any hazardous conditions, contact the appropriate authorities immediately and wait for their guidance.

Take photos or videos of the storm damage to document the extent of the destruction. This documentation will be invaluable when filing an insurance claim. Assess the damage to your home and landscape, noting any areas that require immediate attention. Focus on securing the property to prevent further damage.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company about the storm damage as soon as possible. Provide them with the documentation you gathered and follow their instructions regarding the claims process. Take note of any temporary measures that you need to undertake to protect your property, as your insurance policy may cover these costs.

Assess and Repair Your Home

Thoroughly inspect your home for any structural damage, including the roof, walls, and foundation. Look for signs of water intrusion or weakened structures. Hire a professional home inspector or contractor, if needed, to assess the overall condition of your home and provide guidance on necessary repairs.

After ensuring your safety, start the cleaning and restoration process. Remove debris from your property, both indoors and outdoors. Clear blocked drains and gutters to prevent water from pooling and causing additional damage. If necessary, hire professionals to help with the cleanup and restoration efforts.

Restore Your Landscaping

Assess the damage done to your landscaping, including trees, plants, and hardscape elements. Remove any uprooted or damaged trees, and trim broken branches. Replant or repair damaged areas with resilient and native plants to help prevent erosion. Consider working with a professional landscaper who specializes in storm recovery to ensure a proper restoration of your outdoor spaces.

By ensuring safety, documenting the damage, contacting your insurance company, cleaning up, assessing and repairing your home, and restoring your landscaping, you can navigate the post-storm phase with confidence. Remember to seek professional help when necessary, and always prioritize safety throughout the recovery process. With proper planning and diligent efforts, you can restore your home and revitalize your landscape after the storms.

Protect Your Home From an Ice Storm

1/3/2023 (Permalink)

A house covered in snow and ice

Now that winter weather is here, you may find yourself in the midst of an ice storm. Besides creating incredibly hazardous driving conditions, ice storms are also dangerous because it doesn’t take much ice accumulation to bring down tree branches, power lines and cause other damage to property.

Although you can’t completely safeguard your home from an ice storm, there are several steps you can take to minimize damage, most of which call for adequate, properly installed insulation.
Protect against frozen pipes by ensuring that pipes are insulated and all holes and cracks are sealed. Experts also recommend leaving cabinet doors open, which will allow your home’s heat to warm the pipes, and also leaving your faucets at a slow drip.
Properly insulate and vent your attic, which won’t only help with your home’s energy consumption–you’ll also prevent ice dams, which can cause roof damage during and after a winter storm, as well as water leaks inside your home.
Stock a few supplies in the event of a power outage, which can frequently occur during an ice storm. Bottled water, blankets, non-perishable snacks and candles/matches are great to have on hand, and can get you through a few days without electricity.
As a back-up, make sure your homeowner’s insurance includes coverage for this type of scenario. Even though you can’t completely protect your property, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that if damage does occur, your insurance plan can provide for coverage of repairs.

What to Do When You Need Emergency Storm Restoration

10/14/2022 (Permalink)

A house with a damage roof and a fallen tree on the house and front yard

Storm damage is an unpredictable issue that people all over the world encounter every day. Because of this, it’s imperative that you have a storm restoration plan if you have or ever encounter it in the future. Knowing how you’re going to deal with the problem at hand can help ease you and your family’s worries about the future. Here’s what you need to do in order to get your life back to normal after encountering storm damage.
Identify the severity of the damage;
Before you start hiring people to take care of the restoration process it’s important to get a few steps out of the way first. It’s understandable that you’re in a hurry to fix things but failing to identify the damage and the severity of it can lead to you paying for repairs you didn’t need. Once you’re sure that it’s safe to inspect the situation you need to determine what is considered storm damage and what isn’t. Hiring a trusted professional to assess the situation can help you decide on what the best course of action is going forward. If you can, you should also try to provide pictures of the damage before anything is moved around so you can prove to your insurance what happened.
Contact your insurance provider;
Upon receiving a damage assessment you should call your insurance company so you can make a claim regarding the situation. You should be thorough when providing the details of your home or business’s deterioration due to the weather. Different types of damages are covered in different ways. Whether or not the building is suffering from wind damage, water damage, or falling debris can change the situation. If your building had problems beforehand then that could change things as well. Your homeowner’s insurance provider should instruct you on what to do next along with putting you in touch with some emergency restoration companies.
Working with a restoration company;
When hiring a restoration company it’s important to do your research into them beforehand. You don’t want a crew working on your home or business who is planning to cut corners or overlook the small details. Carelessness can lead to more repairs down the road so you make sure that before you hire a business you look at its reviews and company policy. You also need to know who’s going to be where and when so you don’t encounter any scheduling conflicts.
What is our mission?

SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North is here to assess your storm damage and determine the next step. If you need a roofing evaluation or have suffered exterior, Water, mold or other damages due to storms or other natural disasters, contact us and schedule a free estimate and start on the road to recovery.

When Disaster Strikes Your Complay Every Minute Counts

10/14/2022 (Permalink)

There are two SERVPRO techs cleaning shoot off the ceiling from fire damage

Unforeseen disasters can affect your business far beyond the monetary cost of repairing a damaged building or replacing inventory and equipment. In fact, revenue loss due to business interruption can be the most significant impact. The experts at SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North are ready to help 24/7/365.

Water Damage Restoration
As an experienced leader in commercial water damage restoration, we won’t rest until your property is fully restored. From drying to removing damaged materials to fighting microbial growth, we set the standard in setting things right.
We Offer a Wide Range of Water Damage Restoration Services, Including:
Carpet and upholstered furniture restoration
Content and document drying
Drying and dehumidifying
Burst and leaking pipe repair
Severe Weather Restoration, and much more.

Hurricanes can wreak havoc on your property. The damage that could impact your home is expansive and can include any and/or all of the following: flooding from heavy rains, powerful winds that can destroy walls and cause damage to your property’s structure, and storm surges that can quickly engulf your business if it’s near a coastal region.
Fire Damage Restoration
Fires can result in extensive damage. Smoke continues to destroy your structure and its contents even after the fire is out. The residue left behind is hazardous and can cause health problems if it is not taken care of correctly and thoroughly. The ServiceMaster Restore team is more than ready to handle all of your fire damage restoration needs, including:
Inspecting the structural integrity of the building for safety
Identifying the source to determine the type of fire that occurred
Evaluating all areas that suffered water damage as a result of fire suppression efforts to identify those that may need treatment
Salvaging of product stock, raw materials, commodities, and machinery
Removing contents from the building & securing removal, storage, and cleaning of sensitive files and data storage devices
Packing out the remaining contents for cleaning and storage
Evaluating carpets and floor coverings that may need to be removed
Cleaning, eliminating odors, and deodorizing surfaces to preloss condition

Why Use SERVPRO for Challenging Clean-ups

10/14/2022 (Permalink)

One of our SERVPRO techs holding a trash bag with waste and opening a refrigerator

The restoration of your property following a biohazard event or a crime needs experienced and empathetic professionals like those at SERVPRO to safely clean them to our professional standards.
In the event that your property needs hazmat, trauma or crime scene cleanup, SERVPRO can help you. This type of situation requires competence, experience and respect for all involved. Our skilled professionals will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances. Once the police have completed their investigation of a crime scene, cleanup and restoration can begin. This involves an assessment of your property to determine the proper equipment and cleaning products needed.
In the event that your property needs hazmat, trauma or crime scene cleanup, SERVPRO can help you. This type of situation requires competence, experience and respect for all involved. Our skilled professionals will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances. Once the police have completed their investigation of a crime scene, cleanup and restoration can begin. This involves an assessment of your property to determine the proper equipment and cleaning products needed.
Because traumatic events often involve biological and chemical contaminants, it’s very important to know that the restoration process is being handled in compliance with all government, environmental and health regulations. Our professionals do this in the safest way possible for you, your property and everyone living or working on your property. We are trained and prepared both physically and mentally to handle biohazard, trauma, and crime scene cleanup and restoration with respect and professionalism.

Some of the Most Common Ways Fire Starts

10/13/2022 (Permalink)

Some firefighters putting out a house fire

A fire alarm system from Circle City Security Systems could be the difference between life and death. A fire can be a devastating blow to any home or business. Knowing what you’re up against can help reduce the chance of a fire occurring significantly. Here are the top 8 most common fire starters.
Smoking Indoors
Smoking in a commercial building is illegal in almost every building in the United States. Many people, however, still smoke in their homes. People who have smoked for a long period of time typically begin to underestimate the power of one errant ash. You shouldn’t allow smoking in your home as it is not only a fire hazard but it is damaging to the structure.
Unmaintained Dryer Vents
Lint can quickly accumulate in dryer vents if they are not cleaned regularly. Lint burns extremely quickly and it only takes one spark or too much heat for the entire house to go up in flames. When installing dryer exhaust vents, avoid making the vent turn at 180 degree angles; that is a place for lint to easily accumulate.
Faulty Electrical Equipment
Your toaster from the 70’s may have sentimental value to you but perhaps you should just put it on display and buy a new one for toasting. Over worn cords and frayed electrical wires in electronics are a huge fire hazard.
Overloading Outlets
Another electrical hazard is overloading an outlet or extension cord. Never plug multiple power outlets into each other. A circuit breaker is a good protection from overloading but they do not guarantee safety from an electric fire from overload.
Candles
Candles look and smell great and can make your house feel like home. Unfortunately they can also make your house into an inferno. You shouldn’t ever leave the house with candles burning. Also make sure all candles are on a sturdy surface or holder that can’t fall over or be knocked over by a child or pet.
Speaking of children, they’re pyromaniacs!
It is important to talk to your children about the dangers of playing with fire. A large percentage of fires started are from children playing with it. Don’t leave matches or lighters laying around for a child to find and make sure they know they’re off limits.
Space Heaters
Space heaters or heat dishes are a great tool to help get warmth to unventilated parts of the house or the garage or shed. They do have the potential to be very dangerous, however. Nothing should be left to close in front or back of a space heater. The unit itself can get very hot, not to mention the air it disperses.
Cooking
Perhaps the biggest cause of fires is careless cooking habits. You should always be attentive to your food especially when hot oil is involved. Open flame stoves are especially dangerous. Always keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.

Smoke Can Effect Your Business

10/10/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke coming out of apartment windows

Restoring your business after fire damage to its pre-fire condition is our main goal. As a leading fire damage restoration company, we specialize in fire damage cleanup and fire restoration, smoke damage cleanup, and removal of smoke odors. Our team will deep-clean and remove soot from walls, carpets, and upholstery. Beyond the fire damage, smoke and soot can be toxic, creating a hazardous situation. Even if a fire is contained in one area, smoke and soot can travel throughout a structure. Our professionals are highly-trained, with the experience, tools, and knowledge to clean up fire damage and remove the smell of smoke. In keeping with our goal to restore your home and cherished possessions to their pre-fire condition, we use appropriate personal protective measures to safely clean, deodorize and restore your property. As a business owner, you know that any disruption in business affects your bottom line. We have large loss teams that work alongside our local SERVPRO experts. These restoration professionals can respond quickly and understand your unique set of problems when faced with fire damage cleanup and smoke damage removal. Our goal is to help you get your business up and running again as soon as possible after a fire.

Avoiding Winter Storm Damage

10/6/2022 (Permalink)

roof of a house collapsing due to snow pilling up from a snow storm

As you read this article, some business owners have already experienced damage from hurricanes. But more bad weather from winter storms — including windstorms, snow and, ice — is coming soon. Is your business prepared?

Winter storms rank third in terms of the dollar value of damage they cause, second only to hurricanes and tornadoes. According to Forbes, a “simple” snowstorm can cost well over a billion dollars. The billion dollar losses come from lost productivity and sales.

Are You Prepared?

Snow, ice, sleet: Organizations operating in areas that have freezing temperatures have specific insurance needs. The basic “named perils” property policy covers your buildings and contents from damage or loss caused by specific perils, or causes of loss, named in the policy. These include fire, lightning, explosion, windstorm or hail, smoke, and more. However, these policies do not include coverage for falling objects; weight of snow, ice, or sleet; water damage or collapse.

The most common types of property damage caused by severe winter weather are roof damage or collapse due to snow, ice or sleet, and water damage from burst pipes or “ice dams.” Ice dams occur when water fails to flow properly through gutters, allowing it to seep into a building, damaging ceilings and walls. The resulting water damage would not be covered by a basic “named perils” policy, nor would any of these other types of damage.

High hurricane- risk areas: In certain high-risk coastal areas of Southern states (including Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas), the standard business property policy excludes windstorm coverage. In these areas, business owners might have to obtain their windstorm coverage from a state-sponsored insurance pool, while a private insurer writes the rest of their property coverage. We can help you determine the amount of coverage you need.

Preventive Measures

Although you might have the right coverage for freezes, snow, ice, or windstorm damage, you still need to maintain your property. Before winter starts, take the opportunity to evaluate your roofs.

Large, flat roofs, those with heavy insulation, and those in shady areas have highest risk of dangerous snow and ice build-up, as do roofs of varying levels, which can create drifts. Skylights and vents can also cause structural weaknesses and leaks. Poorly insulated areas of roofs can cause problems by allowing heat to escape, causing snow to melt and refreeze.

Snow causes the most problems when it accumulates over time. The actual weight of the snow doesn’t depend on its depth, but rather the amount of water that it contains. Water content varies because of the difference in snow crystal structure. In general, snow that falls at warmer temperatures will be denser; snow also packs down over time and becomes denser. Zurich Re, a reinsurance company, estimated that one foot of dry snow weighs about three pounds per square foot, while wet snow can weigh as much as 21 pounds per square foot. If snow accumulations occur in your area, plan ahead for safe removal.

Likewise, in high-wind areas, roofs, windows, and doors can allow wind to enter and are your building’s most vulnerable areas. Checking structures on a regular basis to ensure they are in proper working order and meet current codes can help you prevent major damage. Ensure your company has enough business income coverage to weather a loss in income due to damage from snow, ice, windstorm, or other covered cause.

SERVPRO can also help you prepare with our Emergency Ready Profile. Have everything you need when disaster strakes at the touch of a button on our free mobile app. SERVPRO is faster to ant size disaster! 

Common Storm Damage Scenarios

10/6/2022 (Permalink)

There is a damage tree that has been struck by lighting in the middle of the picture with a tornado and lighting in the background.

Severe storms can be frightening and dangerous, and safety has to be your first priority. If your area has seen major problems, be careful. If you think your home has been structurally damaged or if flood risk remains, don’t go inside until a professional says it’s safe. Spending a few nights at a friend’s house or in an emergency shelter is a small price to pay.
Once the disaster has passed, it’s important to assess the damage and get started with cleanup and restoration. Below, we’ve provided information about the damage different kinds of storms can cause and how you can protect your property value in different scenarios.
Insurance Coverage
Severe damage from most storms is covered under home and business insurance policies, but the specifics vary. The amount you are responsible for paying depends on your premiums and deductibles, the age and structure of the building, the extent of your damage, property values in your neighborhood and much more.
Most storms are considered acts of God, which means that your insurer can’t single you out for rate increases. However, failing to file claims in a timely manner can make you ineligible for coverage, and entire neighborhoods can be subject to rate increases following disasters. That means you should always file claims as quickly as possible so you don’t end up paying more in future premiums without receiving the benefits now.
First, you should document the damage to your home to the best of your ability. Take a lot of photos and be sure to hang on to any receipts and documents related to appliances and maintenance work you completed prior to the storm. Then, contact a storm damage restoration contractor and your insurance company. Your insurer will send a claim representative or assessor. The best contractors can work directly with insurers to help you save as much money as possible.
Winter Storm Damage
Winter storms ravage much of the U.S. and Canada every year, and areas that don’t get hit with snow often deal with ice storms and freezing rain. When you’re dealing with blizzards, lake effect storms and snow squalls, damage to your home can include roof and structural damage from heavy snow as well as damage to fascia, exterior pipes and siding. These wintry storms often come with high winds, which can exacerbate damage by causing shingles to break loose. These storms can wreak havoc on utility lines.
Winter storms and freezing weather can also create ice dams, which trap water in between your roof and a layer of ice. These can be easy to miss, but are important to be aware of because they can quickly lead to leaks and then to mold and structural damage.
After a storm, don’t get on the roof or climb into the attic until you’re sure it’s safe. You or your home restoration contractor should check for any signs of leakage in the attic, missing fascia and shingles, bent or detached exhaust pipes, damaged roof vents and damage to the valleys and edges where your roof meets the walls.
When ice storms hit, you may need to be even more cautious. These storms are characterized by leaving at least a quarter of an inch of ice on surfaces. They can cause roofs to collapse, trees to break and power lines to snap. Try to stay in your home until the ice storm has passed and plan ahead with emergency food, water, supplies and power sources.
Hail Damage
Hail can happen anywhere, but some parts of the U.S. see it more often than others. States in the Midwest are most susceptible. These storms are most common between May and September. Hail pellets are usually between .2 inches and 1.75 inches in size, but can be much bigger. In fact, the biggest known hailstone came in at 7.9 inches in South Dakota in 2010.
Hail damage isn’t always visible. When it is, you can look for cracked shingles, dents in shingles in a random pattern, and bent roof vents and pipes. You can also sustain damage to siding. Invisible damage comes into play when substrate materials beneath the shingles are damaged. If you think you have hail damage, we highly recommend getting an expert opinion. This kind of damage can lead to serious roof leaks that can spread and cause structural problems.
Lightning and Thunderstorm Damage
Lightning storms can occur anywhere in the U.S., and they bring the threat of fires and severe structural damage. Even if your lightning rods work properly by channeling the energy to the ground, it’s possible to see damage to electrical wiring, appliances, antennas, satellite dishes, cable or telephone lines, and steel framework. Unless there are signs of fire, be sure to stay indoors until the storm is over because your home will protect you.
Thunderstorms come with risks even if you aren’t hit by lightning. You could see dangerous flash flooding, hail and high winds.
Storm-related Flood Damage and Tidal Surges
Flooding presents a serious risk to your home and your safety. According to the U.S. National Severe Storms Laboratory, floods kills more people every year than lightning, hurricanes and tornadoes combined.
When it comes to structures, flooding can lead to dangerous contamination and damage to drywall, support beams and foundations. You are at risk for mold within the first 24 hours of a flood, so it’s vital to stop the water from flowing and start remediation quickly.
Different types of floods come with different risks. River floods and flash floods are common when snow melts and have been known to completely overwhelm structures. Coastal floods and storm surges are even more dangerous, and usually lead to evacuation warnings. These can destroy homes entirely, so it’s best to listen to weather reports and plan ahead. Debris flows, which are often made up of heavy mud and plant material, can crush houses and sweep them away.
High Winds, Tornadoes and Hurricane Damage
High winds can occur virtually anywhere, and thousands of tornadoes and hurricanes hit the U.S. every year. Severe winds are defined as exceeding 50-60 mph and are categorized as follows:
Straight-line winds: This broad category includes all winds not associated with rotation
Downdrafts: These winds are small columns of air that sink quickly toward the ground
Downbursts: These winds, which can be as bad as tornadoes, are a result of strong downbursts and are usually associated with thunderstorms
Microbursts: These small, highly concentrated downbursts can exceed 168 mph and can be wet or dry.
Gust fronts: These occur when cold air clashes with warm air from a thunderstorm
Derechos: These long-lived, widespread wind storms come with a band of multiple showers or thunderstorms
Haboobs: These are walls of dust pushed along the ground by thunderstorm downdrafts
Bow echoes: These winds are shaped like an archer’s bow and can produce severe straight-line winds and even tornadoes
Tornadoes: These destructive vortexes can exceed 300 mph and travel over dry land
Cyclones and Hurricanes: In the U.S., these tropical storms rotate inward toward areas of low atmospheric pressure and are most common near the Gulf of Mexico and the eastern seaboard.
Damage from wind can be widespread and can affect not only your structure but also surrounding landscaping and asphalt. Be aware of the potential for falling trees and poles and damaged power lines, and take care of these problems right away. After the storm, examine your property for structural damage to the home, including windows, siding and roofs. In the most extreme scenarios, roofs can be blown clean off.

Hire SERVPRO! With over 50 years of experience in Cleaning, Restoration, and Construction, you can trust us to get the job done, and done right. We make any size disaster Like it never even happened.

Hospitality Cleaning & Restoration

10/6/2022 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO tech cleaning a hotel stairwell

As a leader in hotel restoration, we work quickly to minimize the impact of damage to your business operations.
As managers and owners of places where people go to relax and enjoy themselves – hotels, restaurants, resorts – you know how important it is to keep guests happy. It’s also important to know who you can call on when things go wrong. From minor inconveniences to major events like fires and natural disasters, hospitality cleaning services are sometimes necessary. SERVPRO technicians respond quickly and work with your staff to assess your restoration needs so that you can continue serving your guests. We will help prioritize spaces and isolate the damage, and then we can restore the affected area to its preloss condition.
SERVPRO’s experience in the cleanup and restoration of hospitality facilities includes:
Hotels
Convention Centers
Resorts
Casinos
Entertainment venues
Restaurants.

We are here to help you keep your business running smoothly

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

10/6/2022 (Permalink)

a business storefront that has suffered from severe water damage.

When your business has a water damage situation, you need immediate help to restore your facility while minimizing downtime. Water damage to your industrial or commercial property can be particularly devastating. Not only is there the damage itself that needs repaired quickly, but there’s the disruption of your service to customers and employees, as well as the negative effect on revenue. SERVPRO professionals are prepared to evaluate your water-damaged property. We want to help you understand the severity of the water damage to your commercial property so that you’re able to make the best decisions on moving forward with the restoration process. Whether you’re dealing with minor water damage to your commercial property or a large-loss event, we can develop a restoration plan to help ensure your property is clean, dry and restored to its pre-damaged condition. Our customer-focused professionals will assess the water damage to your property. Then we’ll help you understand the severity of the damage so you’re able to make the best decisions for the restoration of your business. Our top-notch people use only the most advanced equipment to detect hidden moisture and extract standing water. We have more than 50 years of experience in repair and restoration so you can trust us to help you develop a water damage restoration plan to help ensure your business is clean, dry and restored to its pre-damaged condition.

How Just a Small Leak Can Be a Big Problem

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

This picture is the bottom of a toilet and water on the fool around it

A running toilet can quickly become a costly problem. The U. S. Geological Survey estimates a single leaking toilet can waste an extra 22 gallons of water every day, adding up to over 8,000 lost gallons of water in a year. Even a small leak can mean hundreds of wasted dollars and thousands of gallons of wasted water.

How to Know If Your Toilet Is Leaking
The easiest way to know you have a leak is to listen. Many times, a running toilet will make a constant sound, even after you are done flushing. You can determine if your toilet’s tank is leaking by placing a few drops of food coloring in your tank water. If the color seeps into your toilet bowl when you are not flushing, you have a leak.

Why a Toilet Leak Is so Bad
Since your toilet uses the most water of any plumbing fixture in your home, even a small leak can equal a big loss of water. Here are the many risks from a leaking toilet:

Wasted Water
If you have more than one leaking toilet, the gallons of lost water can rapidly multiply. At a potential loss of 22 gallons of water per leaking toilet per day, hundreds of gallons of water may be wasted in a very short period of time.

Added Expense
A leaking toilet is literally money down the drain. If you notice your water bills rising and aren’t sure why, you may have a running toilet.

Annoying Noise
A constantly running toilet can quickly become a distracting annoyance, and spending time jiggling the hand hoping for a little silence is not how most of us would choose to spend our time.

Structural Damage to Your Home
If your toilet is leaking from the base, water can seep into your floors. Over time, this water can damage the structural support beneath and around your toilet and may lead to unsafe conditions in the floor of your bathroom.

Health Hazard
Just as leaking water can damage the structure of your home, even a small amount of water can lead to dangerous mold growth. If your toilet is leaking into your walls or floor, this mold can grow undetected, causing health concerns for you and your family.

If you suffer from water damage from a leaking toilet SERVPRO is here to help! We can make any size water damage Like it never even happened.

The Need to Knows About Water Ceiling Damage

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

This picture is of a ceiling with water damage

While water is life, it can cause some of the most devastating damage to your home. Natural disasters, pipe leakages and excessive rain are major causes of ceiling damage. Checking your ceiling for damage after these events helps you control repair costs. Identifying the damage early may help you avoid structural damage and mold infestation. It also helps to understand water damage restoration needed, depending on the damage.
What Are The Common Reasons for Water Damage To Your Ceiling?
Extreme weather
Storms, hurricanes, heavy rains, snow, and ice can damage your roof and ceiling.
Clogged gutters
Twigs, leaves, and granules can clog your gutters and direct water to your home. The water may seep through your walls or roof and damage the ceiling.
AC unit
Condensation from your AC unit could damage your ceiling. A clogged drainpipe or a full drain pan may leak into your ceiling.
Leaky pipes
Faulty pipes above your ceiling can wreak havoc in your home. The pipes could be drainage pipes, supply pipes to sinks and washing machines.
Sprinkler systems
Water from the slightest signs of a fire can cause extensive damage. Faulty sprinklers can also damage your ceiling.
What Does Water Damage On A Ceiling Look Like?
Brown patches
One of the most common water damage signs is brown patches on the ceiling. As the water spreads, the patch grows larger and spreads in layers.
Moldy patches
Mold is a clear sign of moisture problems in your home. If you notice green or black patches, you likely have a mold infestation. It's important to control the mold infestation immediately because mold causes health issues.
Swollen walls and door casings
Water may spread from the ceiling into the walls and doors. As the wood absorbs water, it begins to swell.
Decorative features separating from the walls
Water damage causes the wallpaper and trims to peel from walls. The paint may also buckle away from the affected area.
Sweating
You may notice beads of water along the wall or patches of water on the ceiling.
What Happens When The Ceiling Gets Wet?
It Looks Unattractive
Your plaster and drywall form brown patches and dirt lines as the water leaks. Decorative finishes such as paint, trims and wallpaper may begin to peel off. The ceiling may also bubble and sag, making it look unpleasant.
Mold Infestation
Brown and black patches on your ceiling may begin to develop shortly after some water damage. The mold and mildew can spread to the rest of your home through the HVAC system. People with allergies can develop respiratory problems after inhaling the mold.
Fire Hazard
Having water in your electrical wiring increases the risk of a fire hazard. It's vital to have a professional electrician confirm the extent of the damage.
Slip and Fall Accidents
A leak from your ceiling could form a puddle on the floor. The water puddles can create a fall risk for children and adults in the house, unaware of the situation.
Rising Utility Bills
Water affects the insulation's performance, which causes the power bills to rise. Your home's insulation may need complete water damage restoration.
How Do You Fix A Water Damaged Ceiling?
Once you discover a water-damaged ceiling, it's important to control the situation. You can try and fix the problem yourself or call an expert.
Prevent an Escalation
Water damage to your ceiling can spread to other parts of your home and damage your property. First, move your belongings and furniture away from the affected area. Then set up some pails to collect the water if it's dripping.
If the ceiling is drywall, it will absorb and spread the water. Getting a tarp is a great way to localize the leak. You can also use a sharp object to create a hole for the water to drip through. Controlling the water spread is also crucial to protect your insulation.

Hire a Contractor
Hiring a water damage restoration expert is the best way to understand the extent of your damage. The expert checks your ceiling and roof to determine if the damage is cosmetic or extensive. In the case of extensive damage, you need a complete ceiling replacement.
An expert can also help you track down the source of the leak for fixing. Water travels long distances from the source, especially if the roof is absorbent. A consultant can also estimate the ceiling water damage repair cost.
As you hire the contractor, hire an electrician to check your wiring. Any water in your electrical wiring poses a serious fire hazard. Water damage also affects your electric connections and equipment.
Dry the Moisture
Once you find the leak's source, it's time to dry the ceiling and any other affected structures. Ensure that you dry the air in the space to remove all moisture. Any moisture trapped in your ceiling can cause mold infestation and structural damage.
If the damage is extensive, call SERVPRO to air out the ceiling. SERVPROS team of water damage restoration expert can also clean the house. extensive cleaning is vital after a leak from contaminated and smelly water.
Replace the Ceiling
You can choose to go DIY or use SERVPRO to fix your ceiling. For cosmetic ceiling damage, you may plan and execute the ceiling replacement alone. It's essential to remember that replacing one part of the ceiling may affect its uniformity. It's best to change the entire ceiling in one room.

However, the entire process may be tedious and time-consuming. Hiring SERVPRO can relieve the burden of ceiling replacement. SERVPRO can check the entire ceiling for damage you might have missed. They can also complete the replacement quickly.

Get Professional Help for Ceiling Water Damage
Managing ceiling water damage is essential as soon as it happens. Hiring a professional is vital for quality repairs and immediate action. SERVPRO services are your go-to when you need professional water damage restoration. We also provide mold remediation and moisture control services. Reach out today for a free consultation and a quote on ceiling water damage repair cost.

For 24/7 response to your ceiling water damage, fast water damage restoration and a quote on your ceiling water damage repair costs, contact SERVPRO today.

Why You Should have SERVPRO Clean Your Air Ducts

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

this is a photo of a before and after of a dirty and clean air duct

Have you ever stopped to consider the air that circulates inside your home? It travels from your furnace, through your ductwork, into your home’s air, and back through the cold air return system. On its journey, it accumulates all kinds of nasty stuff: dust, hair, allergens, pet dander, mold spores, you name it. If it’s airborne, it will eventually collect in your ductwork. From there, it will get blown out into your home, making a dusty, dirty mess of your indoor air (you know, the stuff you breathe). Not cool! SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North provides professional air duct and dryer vent cleaning. Our company not only caters to residential but also commercial properties throughout the Winston-Salem area. Our highly trained technicians have the skill and HVAC ductwork and ventilation The Benefits of Servicing Your HVAC Unit Include: helping to restore peak energy efficiency It also may help to eliminate offensive orders. It also helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

Why Choose SERVPRO

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO logo of the orange house on a white background

SERVPRO has the expertise and equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-water damage condition. We use a scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup that emphasizes monitoring and documenting the drying process from beginning to end.

Every water damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same.

Emergency Contact
When you call, our specialist will guide you through several questions that will help us appropriately respond to your unique water emergency. Beyond understanding your situation, we will want to set up a time for your local SERVPRO professional to inspect the property and create a restoration plan for you. Fast response is critical, so we’ll want to schedule this as soon as possible.

Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
After our professionals arrive at your home, they will thoroughly assess the water damage and help you understand its severity, hazards that may be present, and determine what can be restored. If necessary, we will also assist with stopping the source of the water damage. All of this is a crucial step to creating an effective plan of action that will result in the successful restoration of your property.

Water Removal
Service work normally begins with a thorough extraction of water. This helps prevent the spread of water in the structure and reduces drying time. Typically, hundreds or thousands of gallons of water are removed using powerful pumps and extraction units during the water removal process.

Damaged Material Removal
If any materials cannot be successfully restored, this will be communicated to you. These materials are typically removed as soon as possible to expedite the drying of all restorable materials.

Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Deodorization
Water damage can create cleaning, sanitizing, or deodorization needs for floors, furniture, and other personal belongings. SERVPRO professionals use a variety of specially formulated products, industry-leading equipment, and proven techniques to accomplish this important aspect of restoration.

Drying
After the bulk of the water has been removed, our specialists use industry-leading drying equipment to remove the water you can’t see. This will target water within materials to bring these materials back to their normal moisture level. This equipment is normally placed during the first visit to your property. The type and amount of equipment is based on your unique situation and industry standards.

Monitoring
During the drying process, our specialists will want to visit your property daily to help ensure materials are drying properly, check drying equipment performance, and make changes as needed. This monitoring process is critical to effective and efficient drying of your property.

Repairs and Construction
After these initial steps, your home may need construction work to get your property back to its preloss condition. The repair step can be minor repairs or rebuilding entire areas of your home. We can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.

Why Would You Use SERVPRO to Clean Your Carpets?

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO techs cleaning carpets

Your home’s carpets get the most use and abuse of any surface in your home. You can keep your carpet looking good for years with the carpet cleaning services of SERVPRO
A professional carpet and upholstery cleaner can remove deep-seated dirt and grime to keep your carpet and rugs looking their best and extend their lifespan. Even the most high-quality items can become soiled with dust, dirt, pet hair and the daily traffic of family life. SERVPRO applies its more than 50 years of knowledge and experience in restoration to carpet and upholstery cleaning projects of all sizes. We use a variety of cleaning methods depending on your situation. Our goal is to clean carpets, rugs and upholstery to your satisfaction to restore them to their original appearance. We take pride in the quality of or work we do and handle our costumers property like we would want ours to be. Once we are done cleaning your carpet or upholstery it will look brand new!

Why Use SERVPRO For Storm Damage Clean Up?

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

A house in a storm background with the SERVPRO 24hr serves logo

Without warning, nature can take a violent turn: flood cleanup, wildfires, tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards. Any of these can have a devastating effect on your home, turning your life upside-down.

SERVPRO’s highly-trained professionals are close by and customer-focused. We want you to be back in your restored home as quickly as possible. Whether you have minor storm damage or something larger to deal with, we have the experience and the equipment needed to cleanup and restore your home and help get life back to normal following storm damage.

With more than 2,000 locations, there’s a SERVPRO^® location waiting to serve you 24/7.

If you’re a business owner in need of storm remediation, you can trust our Disaster Recovery Team to help you get back in business after a storm or flood disaster. We have elite large-loss specialists that are pre-qualified and strategically placed throughout the United States and Canada to handle any size disaster. Past industries we served have included hospitals, property management, universities, municipalities and even The Pentagon.

What To Do If You Have a Busted Pipe

9/21/2022 (Permalink)

busted pipe leaking from the ceiling

Homeowners wonder what to do when a burst pipe plagues their homes. Though the problem rarely happens, it’s important to know what to do when a pipe bursts somewhere in your home. Homeowners with no knowledge on the subject often face water damage to their floors, walls, and precious possessions.

Burst Pipe Causes
Several causes explain why a pipe bursts. Many factors come into play, but there are some common causes most homeowners experience from time to time. A burst pipe rarely happens overnight, so keep an eye on your plumbing system all year round. Here are some of the most common causes of pipe bursts.

Corrosion. Firstly, corrosion causes pipes to burst. Corrosion occurs because of imbalances in the water’s pH. Rust also causes a significant amount of corrosion. In either case, the corrosion happens over a long period of time until the pipe finally gives out. Rust and pH imbalances compromise the strength of the pipe, which leads to leaks and bursts. Rusty pipes are more common in homes with well water because the water usually has a higher concentration of iron.
Frozen. In places with harsh winters, frozen pipes are a large problem. When temperatures fall below 32 degrees, the water in the pipes freeze. This causes the bonds in the pipe to weaken, which leads to breaks. If the temperature rapidly increases—like when you turn on your hot water—the ice and the pipe shatter. If you experience long, cold winters, keep your home warm to avoid this issue.
Movement. Pipe movement occurs accidentally in most circumstances. Sometimes, pipes shift after winter because the cold temperature causes the pipes to contract. Other times, shifts occur because of repairs to other parts of the plumbing or if the water pressure becomes too high and shakes the pipes. A burst pipe occurs when this movement increases the water pressure in a certain area.
Clogs. Water pressure also increases because of clogs anywhere in the pipe. When the clog is close to the drain, they don’t cause too much trouble for the pipe system. However, if a clog forms deep in the pipe, the water pressure builds around the clog. Because the water has nowhere else to go, it leaks outside of the pipe. If the pressure becomes too great for the metal to handle, it results in a burst pipe.
Signs of a Burst Pipe
Homeowners often know when a pipe bursts because of large puddles of water in the home. However, there are other signs. These signs are harder to find if you don’t know what to look for. If you notice more than one of these issues, you definitely have a burst pipe on your hands. Check for these common indicators.

Puddles. If a puddle grows significantly when you turn on the water, it’s most likely a burst. Small drips usually indicate a leak. With a burst, the water pools under the pipes, but also moves through walls. For example, if you experience a burst under the bathroom sink, the area directly below collects the most water. However, the floor around the toilet and bathtub also has puddles if the pipe bursts. With a leak, the water likely stays under the sink.
Water pressure problems. Water pressure also indicates a problem because a burst affects how well water travels through the pipes. Low water pressure points to a burst or leak. With a burst pipe, water goes directly through the hole rather than the faucet, which lowers your water pressure.
Wall stains. Stains occur for a few reasons, but large water stains on walls usually indicate a problem with the pipes. These stains also appear on the ceiling. The location of the stain points to the place where the pipe burst in most cases. In that sense, wall stains are some of the more helpful indicators of a burst pipe because it’s easy to find where exactly the burst took place.
Discolored water. Discoloration of water also indicates a burst pipes. However, strange colors point to a number of other issues as well. For example, brownish water stems from high concentrations of manganese, but doesn’t necessarily mean the pipe burst. Still, reddish water usually indicates rust in the pipes, which does lead to bursts. Keep an eye on the color of your water and if any other signs appear.
High water bill. High water bills are often a sign of burst pipes. Excess amounts of water leak through the hole or break, which wastes water and adds to your bill. Additionally, because a burst affects water pressure, homeowners often have to use more water than normal to achieve satisfactory pressure.
Water smells. Smells from the water are also common indicators for a burst pipe. Though water smells arise for a multitude of reasons, a metallic smell in conjunction with the other symptoms on this list indicates pipe bursts. If rust causes the break, the water appears reddish and smells like metal.
Water sounds. Water sounds in the walls are another sign. If you hear a constant drip, but know all of your faucets are aren’t the cause, a pipe inside the wall is a likely cause for the noise. Additionally, check your other water fixtures before you assume a burst. Toilets, sinks, or tubs also make water noises from time to time. Eliminate those causes so you’re sure the pipes are the cause.
Pipe noises. Finally, metallic clangs and other pipe noises sometimes indicates pipe movement, which leads to leaks and bursts. The pipes often shake when water flows through them and there’s a break. In normal circumstances, homeowners rarely hear the water in the pipes, but a burst pipe moves more depending on the size of the break and where it is on the pipe.
Things to Do About a Burst Pipe
Homeowners have more control over pipe bursts than they think. While actual repairs must be left for professionals, there are some things you are able to do to minimize the water damage. These require little knowledge of plumbing and are quick ways to keep water from important items in your home. Before your plumber and restiration team arrives, implement these simple tricks.

Turn off main. Before anything else, turn off the water supply. You don’t want any new water in the pipe system when there is a burst. The water already in the system is much easier to deal with than any new water. Wait to turn the water back on until the plumber says you are able.
Call a plumber. Next, call a plumber. Do this as soon as you are able to keep the damage as minimal as possible. You never know when the plumber is able to come to your home, so call as soon as possible to keep the wait time down. The plumber diagnoses the cause, talks solutions, and fixes the problem. Preventative maintenance also prevents a burst pipe, so schedule maintenance visits throughout the year to keep this problem at bay.
Clean the water. Clear away any water quickly to avoid excess water damage. Some water damage is inevitable when a pipe bursts, but the sooner you clean the water, the less likely you experience irreparable damage to your possessions. Fast cleanup also ensures mold and mildew don’t grow. The longer the water stays, the more likely these substances are to grow, so clean and dry the area quickly.
Drain faucets. Drain your faucets to remove the water left in the system. Water removal takes some of the pressure off the pipes and ensures they’re dry so no more water leaks through. Flush toilets multiple times to drain the water out of those. Start with cold water, then move to hot water. Make sure the boiler or water heater is off when you do this.
Let in warm air. Frozen pipes must warm slowly to prevent further damage. To do this, turn up the heat in your home. If the heat still isn’t enough, use a hair dryer to warm the pipes. Though slow, this heats the pipes slow enough to prevent any more breaks. Drastic changes in temperature cause the pipe to burst.
Keep doors open. To circulate warm air, keep doors open. Rooms with exposed pipes need more air circulation to dry the pipes and the surrounding area. You want the pipes to dry as quickly as possible, so make sure air flows consistently. The warmer the air, the faster the water dries.
Repair sleeve. Repair sleeves temporarily fix a burst pipe. Slip the sleeve on the pipe to cover the hole or mend the break. For a short time, this keeps the water in the pipe so you are able to use your water throughout your home. However, this fix is temporary, so don’t use it for too long. Call a plumber to repair the pipe as soon as possible.
Rubber, wood piece, and clamp. Rubber, wood, and a clamp are also a way for homeowners to fix a burst pipe in the short-term. Place a piece of rubber on the burst area, cover it with a wood block, then clamp it all together. This keeps the water in the pipe for a short time. This methods doesn’t last as long as the sleeve, so only use it in cases of emergency. Immediately contact a plumber to fix the pipe.
Rather than face the aftermath of burst pipes, use these tips to combat water damage right as pipes burst. Not only does this lessen the damage, it ensures you don’t waste water, which keeps your water bill at a normal rate. If you do suffer water damager from a busted pipe call SERVPRO to mitigate and repair

Commercial cleaning helps against viral infections

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

Business breakroom

Maintaining a clean work environment has always been important. But amid COVID-19  regular cleaning and disinfecting have become more important than ever.

There are several vital steps to take, from wearing protective gear to following the guidelines the CDC and local health authorities laid out.

If a sick person or someone who tested positive for COVID-19 has been in your facility within the last 24 hours, you should clean and disinfect the spaces they occupied.

Steps to consider

Before cleaning and disinfecting:

• Wait as long as possible (at least several hours) before you clean and disinfect if someone in your office tests positive for Covid.
• Close off areas used by the sick person and do not use those areas until after cleaning and disinfecting.

While cleaning and disinfecting:

• Wear proper protective clothing and a mask while cleaning and disinfecting.
• Turn off the heating and air conditioner system.
• Focus on the immediate areas occupied by the person who is sick or diagnosed with COVID-19.
• SERVPRO uses only approved cleaners and disinfectants. 
• Vacuum the area if needed. SERVPRO uses only vacuums that are equipped with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and bags.

Solution To A Business Flood

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

An office under a foot of water due to a busted pip

Running a business is hard work and long hours. When you experience damage from a flood the stress can build faster than you’re prepared for. If you find yourself facing flooding issue in your business, you may feel as though you’re at your wit’s ends. The damage is often extensive, and different parts of a building must be treated in different ways to fully restore it to full operations. This blog is to tell if how a company flood affects your business and a guide for most important steps of flooded business restoration.

How Flooding Affects Your Business: A business flood is an unexpected problems to run into as a company owner. Water damage is catastrophic to property and can occurs under many different circumstances including appliance failure, storm damage, leaking roof, plumbing malfunction, and basement flooding. The seriousness of a flood can differ. You may have a broken pipe letting loose gallons of clean, sanitary water. Maybe a sewer pipe breaks down the street and sends a deluge of toxic waste your way. Perhaps water levels rise in the rivers after rain and begin to overflow nearby. Despite the different types of business flooding, they all cause the same issue: holding up business! Not only does major flooding in your business slow operations to a crawl, but it also poses a threat to the health of you, your employees, and your customers. Some water may contaminate key areas of your business, and damaged materials can require costly repairs and lose you major progress on projects. 

What to do After Your Business Floods: A How-to Guide: Dealing with business flood damage on your commercial property can be quite a pain. Regardless of where the flooding originated, there is a laundry list of fixes that must be made in the wake of significant water damage. Let’s run through them:

1. Secure and Stabilize your Building 

Water may have weakened walls or other supports, and doing the dirty work to remove it all may jeopardies the structure. Great care must be taken to clear the area of debris and stabilize the structure. Any demolition that may need to be done will require a safe work area!

2. Prepare the Building for Proper Restoration.

You may still be using the location for operations during the water damage cleanup, so temporary power and lighting could be necessary. Along with this, boarding up windows and tarping structures will prevent the area from being dirtied any further.

3. Restore and Rebuild

The contents of your building are valuable, so careful measures should be taken to pack, clean, and store these materials. This means drying documents and rebuilding areas for their safekeeping. To ensure the issue is resolved, a high-tech inspection is recommended to uncover any hidden water intrusion.

keep reading to understand why SERVPRO is the company to call when something like this happens.

How SERVPRO can help!

When your livelihood is on the line, it’s not worth messing around with anyone but the pros. Our team understands the trauma associated with catastrophic loss and is committed to listening and responding to your needs. SERVPRO has over 50 years of experience in residential and commercial cleaning and restoration. We are a 24hr service how make fire water and mold damage Like it never even happened. 

Preparing for Hurricane season

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

Trees that are being bent in the winds created by a hurricane

Personal emergency preparedness is of importance, especially when it comes to areas that are prone to disasters such as hurricanes. Peak hurricane season in the Atlantic is mid-August to late October.

Hurricanes are dangerous and destructive causing high winds, flooding, heavy rain, and storm surges.

MAKE A PLAN:

Stock up on emergency supplies for your home and car.

Find out where the nearest shelter is and the different routes you can take to get there if you have to leave your home. 

PREPARE AN EMERGENCY FOOD SUPPLY:

This should include but not be limited to shelf-stable canned foods that require no heading. Also, make sure you have pet food.

Avoid foods that are very salty or spicy, as these foods increase the need for drinking water, which may be in short supply.

PREPARE AN EMERGENCY WATER SUPPLY:

Store at least 1 gallon of water per day for each person and each pet. Consider storing more water than this for hot climates, pregnant women, and for people who are sick.

Store at least a 3-day supply of water for each person and each pet. Try to store a 2-week supply if possible.

Steps for cleaning your business after a fire

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning Up After a Fire at Your Business

Knowing as much as you can once the fire is contained or extinguished can help you plan cleanup efforts with more efficiency.

Have a conversation with the firefighters after the fire is extinguished. Once the fire is extinguished, you can approach the firefighters and ask a few important questions. While they might not be able to answer all your questions, you can make several inquiries, such as:

• What started the fire
• Which parts of the building were affected
• Who to contact to get a copy of the fire department’s report? 

Knowing as much as you can once the fire is contained or extinguished can help you plan cleanup efforts with more efficiency.

Inspect the Building

Work with your insurance company to take stock of soot damage, water damage from fire hoses, and how many rooms were affected by flames. Inspecting the building can help you gauge how much it may cost to fix and whether any rooms have safety issues as a result of the fire. Remember to include interior walls, windows and doors in the inspection.

Damage Caused by Wind

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

House with a tree fallen on it due to a wind storm

What is The Best Way to Reduce Damage to Commercial Property?

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO ERP logo

The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it now. As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. and knowing you are ready for whatever happens speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event you business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be there. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your commercial property. It is a completely free app to use to help your business.   

Damage during Hail Storms

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

Fall Storms can produce unseen roof damage from hail.

Hailstorms can cause serious damage to a roof. The impact from a hailstorm can bruise or crack roofing shingles, potentially leading to water damage in your home.Even if you don't have obvious holes in your roof due to hail damage, you likely still need a hail damage roof inspection to find out how much damage you are dealing with and how to proceed with any roof repairs needed.

Hail as small as half-dollar size will cause minor damage to most roofs and cracks in siding.  

Walnut size hail will cause severe roof damage and dents in wood. 

Golf ball size hail will cause exterior paint damage and car dents.  

Hail damage can be cosmetic or functional.  things like broken edges, bruises, punctures and granule loss can cause serious complications, though they may seem cosmetic at first.  

Granule loss:  The sandpaper-like part of the shingle.  When a shingle loses granules, its asphalt coating is exposed to the elements and this could lead to premature aging of the roof.

Cracks in the shingles: Hard hail impacts can cause cracks.  These can lead to exposure and tears, leaving your roof with bare spots, therefore unable to effectively protect your roof from inclement weather.

Exposed fiberglass mat: Hail impact can shatter the shingles' surfacing.  This could cause the shingle to break away from the fiberglass mat underneath.

Fractured fiberglass mat: This damage is slightly harder to detect and normally will require a trained professional.  A fractured mat can result in tears from the point of impact.

A typical homeowners insurance policy will include coverage for roof damage from hail but coverage may be applied differently, depending on your area, your insurance carrier and the details of your policy. 

How Smoke from Fires Can Affect Your Health

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke coming from the roof of the house

Smoke may smell good, but it's not good for you. While not everyone has the same sensitivity to wildfire smoke, it’s still a good idea to avoid breathing smoke if you can help it. And when smoke is heavy, such as can occur in close proximity to a wildfire, it’s bad for everyone. Smoke is made up of a complex mixture of gases and fine particles produced when wood and other organic materials burn. The biggest health threat from smoke is from fine particles. These microscopic particles can penetrate deep into your lungs. They can cause a range of health problems, from burning eyes and a runny nose to aggravated chronic heart and lung diseases. Exposure to particle pollution is even linked to premature death.

Some people are more at risk

It’s especially important for you to pay attention to local air quality reports during a fire if you are 

a person with heart or lung disease, such as heart failure, angina, ischemic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, or asthma. 

an older adult, which makes you more likely to have heart or lung disease than younger people. 

caring for children, including teenagers, because their respiratory systems are still developing, they breathe more air (and air pollution) per pound of body weight than adults, they’re more likely to be active outdoors, and they’re more likely to have asthma. 

a person with diabetes, because you are more likely to have underlying cardiovascular disease. 

a pregnant woman, because there could be potential health effects for both you and the developing fetus.

How to tell if smoke is affecting you

High concentrations of smoke can trigger a range of symptoms. 

Anyone may experience burning eyes, a runny nose, cough, phlegm, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. 

If you have heart or lung disease, smoke may make your symptoms worse. 

People with heart disease might experience chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, or fatigue. 

People with lung disease may not be able to breathe as deeply or as vigorously as usual and may experience symptoms such as coughing, phlegm, chest discomfort, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Protect yourself! It’s important to limit your exposure to smoke - especially if you are at increased risk for particle-related effects. Here are some steps you can take to protect your health: If you have heart, vascular, or lung disease, including asthma, talk with your health care provider. Prepare for fire season if you live in a fire-prone area. If you have heart, vascular, or lung disease, including asthma,talk with your health care provider before fire season to make plans. Discuss when to leave the area, how much medicine to have on hand, and your asthma action plan if you have asthma. Have a several-day supply of nonperishable foods that do not require cooking. Cooking - especially frying and broiling - can add to indoor pollution levels.

Call SERVPRO to put an air cleaner in your home. Air cleaners can help reduce particle levels indoors. They will make the house smell brand new.

Are You Safe to Stay in Your House After a Fire?

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

Photo is a kitchen that was damage by a fire

No, it is not safe to stay in your home after a fire. You need to have the area inspected, cleaned, and repaired first. Even a small house can release toxic chemicals into the air which could hurt you and your family. The only way to be sure it is safe and not a health risk is to have an inspection done. Homeowners should immediately call their insurance company to report the fire, smoke, and soot damage. Then, contact SERVPRO to assist you with the cleanup and repair.

Specific health risks after a house fire include:

Structural damage – if the fire has compromised your home’s structural integrity the roof, walls, or floor could be at risk of caving in. You may need to install roof tarping or board-up holes in your walls in order to shield your home from the elements.

Toxic fumes – Breathing in carbon monoxide, soot, and smoke can cause irritation and possible long-term damage to your lungs.

Chemical residue – When plastic, wallpaper, paint, and other household items burn they release toxic chemicals into the air. These chemicals can settle into any nearby fabric, carpet, or other surfaces. If you touch them this residue will then be on your skin and in your clothing. It is best to have an IIRC-certified home renovation inspector evaluate your house before returning.

Even if the fire was very small it is still dangerous to sleep in your house right after a fire. The air is contaminated with smoke, soot, burned chemicals, toxic fumes, and everything else that was released into the air from the fire. These toxic particles spread throughout your home and get trapped in fabric, bedding, clothing, drapes, and carpet. Even after a small fire, you should immediately open your windows and doors to air out the house. Then, wait for your home restoration team to evaluate and repair the fire damage before you continue to sleep in your house.

Even if all you saw was smoke rather than flames, it may still be unsafe to sleep in your house. Instead of taking chances with your lungs, go ahead and have the inspection done. If you’ve filed a claim with your insurance company, it is possible they will cover the cost of the inspection. If it is necessary for you to sleep somewhere else while your property is being restored, your insurance plan should cover the cost of temporary lodgings. Contact your insurance agent to see what your individual plan covers.

The fire department will give you an “all clear” to allow you back into your house to recover your valuables after a fire. They will be checking to ensure that all flames have been extinguished and your home is still structurally sound. Once that occurs you can enter to retrieve valuables but should avoid spending large amounts of time inside until your home has been completely cleaned and restored.

Your belongings may have soot and smoke damage and may need to have fire damage restoration before they are safe to use again. You may need to take them to a safe location until they can be properly cleaned and sanitized by SERVPRO.

SERVPRO offers 24/7 emergency services in the event of a fire. We will collaborate with you and your insurance company to evaluate, clean, and restore your property after a fire. Schedule a free scope. We are here to help.

What to do with a water heater leak

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

A water heater leak has caused damage and is in need of mitigation.

1. Stay calm. The first step when any plumbing issue rears its head is to stay calm. ...
2. Find the source of the leak. Is your heater leaking from the bottom or the top? ...
3. Turn off the water. Once you locate the leak, you can work towards fixing it. ...
4. Turn off the heater. ...
5. Drain the water tank. ...
6. Fix the leak, or call a plumber. ...
7. CALL SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North and let us handle the mitigation and repair of any damage!!

Why Use SERVPRO for Your Board Up Needs

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

A garage that had fire damage now boarded up

After a fire emergency occurs, there are several important steps that need to be taken to restore the property and prevent additional damage or loss. One of the most effective ways that home and business owners can secure and minimize the damage that occurs after a fire emergency is by boarding up the property. When a fire occurs, there are often several areas of the property that are left exposed and vulnerable to additional element and damage.
Windows, doorways, the roof, and any other sections of the property need to be secured as soon as possible to prevent more severe damage and protect it from the elements. If left unaddressed, exposed areas of the property can also invite unwanted intruders to enter the premises. In addition if the fire occurs during winter, your property is vulnerable to snow, wind and rain that can degrade the structure and potentially cause a collapse. By boarding up a property after a fire emergency, home and business owners can secure their assets and prevent a complete loss. Here at SERVPRO we take care of your property like it is our own and our emergency team of specialists will quickly arrive at your residential or commercial property prepared to assist with properly and efficiently securing the structure. SERVPRO has extensive experience providing board-up services – our restoration experts have the know-how to quickly assess each specific situation and take the appropriate actions to mitigate the damage to your property. Our team uses only the most durable and secure board-up products to ensure your property will hold up under the harshest of conditions.

Recent Flooding in Kentucky

8/13/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding in Perry County, KY

In the latest update from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, crews are working to repair state highways damaged in historic flooding in Breathitt and Perry counties last month. Four routes remain closed, and some of the closures are expected to be long-term.

Work is continuing to repair major breaks in the pavement on KY 451 in Perry County, KY 1110 in Breathitt County, and KY 1278 in Breathitt County. Daytime closures are in effect for KY 1110 while the work continues.

District 10’s sign crews have been busy installing warning signs to caution drivers of pavement breaks and slides. Drivers should heed these warning signs and watch for road damage, and yield to oncoming traffic in places where the pavement is reduced to one lane.

SERVPRO Storm Teams are working hard to mitigate damage and get folks back into their homes as quickly as possible!

3 steps to help with a flooded basement

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

A basement is flooded and in need of Mitigation

1. If at all possible, stop the source of the flooding first. The flooding could come from many sources. A broken water line or a bad water heater could cause your basement to flood. So could clogged or damaged gutters that enable water to pool up near the foundation. Cracked or damaged walls might allow water to seep in from outside during heavy rainstorms.

If water is leaking from inside your home, turn off your water main. If your basement is flooding from the outside, your options may be limited, but do what you can to prevent more water from coming into your basement.

No matter what the cause might be, the result is the same. You have a flooded basement that poses a threat to your family home and collective health. Immediate and effective water mitigation is needed to protect your basement and your health.

2. Call SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North!!!When your basement is flooded with water, time is not on your side. We recommend calling us right away, so we can dispatch someone to your home ASAP and begin pumping water out of your basement.

3. When your home suffers from water damage, you might be able to file a homeowners insurance claim for damages. If the claim is approved, your insurer might pay for the costs to repair your damaged home and furnishings. The claim also might help to pay for water mitigation services.

Why do Grill Fires Happen?

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

A grill has combusted and is burning out of control

Why Your Gas Grill Keeps Catching on Fire

Gas grills are designed to produce a flame, so you may think it is always on fire. While it is technically accurate that you have a fire going, it is a controlled fire, and only the gas that is being supplied as the fuel is burning.

When referring to a gas grill catching on fire, it is a fire that is no longer controlled by the design of the grill.

Grease Buildup on Grill Surfaces

With repeated use of your grill, grease builds up on the grill’s surfaces. This grease comes from the fat in the meats you are grilling. As the meat heats up, the fat melts and drips to the surfaces below. When the grill is turned off, the grease solidifies on your grill surfaces.

Over time, with sufficient grease buildup, the grease can liquify, subsequently vaporize, and be ignited by the flame in your grill resulting in a grease fire.

If you are grilling excessively fatty meats, the dripping may be sufficient to cause a small grease fire on its own. This is one of the reasons an operating grill should never be left unattended.

Grease Buildup in Drip Pan

The drip pan below your grill is easy to forget about. You can’t see it as well as you can see the inside of the firebox. And because it is out of sight, it is more likely to have unsafe amounts of grease accumulate there.

Depending on your grill’s design, if the grease in the drip pan catches on fire, it can be a more dangerous situation. This is because the drip pan is outside of the firebox, which can help contain a grease fire in most occurrences.

If you have a cabinet below your grill that contains the grease management system, your drip tray could overflow out of sight. And if the grease in the catch pan catches fire, it can spread to those other areas.

Other Reasons Gas Grill Fires

Grease fires are the most common reason for fires related to gas grills. While other causes are less common, they can be just as dangerous, if not more.

A mechanical issue, like a rusted-out burner, could lead to excessive gas flow resulting in a larger fire than the grill is designed for.

Having any combustible materials in or near the grill can also result in a fire from your gas grill. Make sure your grill isn’t near any structures or other materials that can catch fire.

Finally, the most severe gas grill fire can be the result of a gas leak. A leak can allow the flammable gases to accumulate, leading to a fireball or explosion when you light your grill.

Fire Damage is our specialty at SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North. Call us for any issues you may have!!

Fireplace Safety Tips as Fall Approaches

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

Fireplace Safety Tips

• Make sure the damper is open before lighting a fire so the fireplace will vent properly. Do not close your damper until you are sure the fire is out.
• When starting a fire, only use a match or commercial firelighter. Never use flammable liquids to start a fire.
• Keep fireplace glass doors open while burning a fire. This allows the fire to receive enough air for complete combustion and to help reduce creosote build-up in the chimney. Creosote is a substance that derives from incomplete combustion.³
• Keep metal mesh screens closed whenever your fireplace is in use to help keep embers in the fireplace.
• Only use dry wood in your fireplace. Wet wood can increase the build-up of creosote, which can lead to chimney fires. Select wood – preferably hard wood – that has been seasoned six months to a year.⁴
• Do not burn plastic: it can release toxic chemicals and cause damage to your chimney, fireplace or wood stove.
• Never burn a Christmas tree in your fireplace, as the sparks from burning needles can increase the risk for a chimney fire. Also, do not burn cardboard boxes, wrapping paper or trash in your fireplace.
• Never leave a fire in a fireplace unattended. Before leaving the house or going to bed, make certain to fully extinguish the fire.
• Allow ashes to cool completely before disposing of them and note that ashes can take several days to cool completely. Never empty ashes directly into a trash can. Instead, place ashes in a covered metal container located at least 10 feet away from your home and any other building.

Why Use a SERVPRO ERP?

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO- Faster to any size disaster.

A no-cost assessment of your facility.

A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.

A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.

Establishes your local SERVPRO as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

Why should you use Certified:SERVPRO Cleaned

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses our own line of cleaning agents, products and chemicals

Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is the answer. With a tailored cleaning program that is customized for your business needs, our expertly trained staff cleans and decontaminates your property according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention standards.

We use EPA-approved cleaning solutions, including our proprietary cleaning agent SERVPROXIDE, a hospital-grade disinfectant that is NSF certified for direct food contact surface use.

As a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned participant, you’ll provide reassurance to your customers and employees that you’re taking all the steps needed to get the highest level of clean for them. This dedication will be on display through a decal window emblem, and other digital marks to show your commitment to clean.

Why should you use Certified:SERVPRO Cleaned

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses our own line of cleaning agents, products and chemicals

Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is the answer. With a tailored cleaning program that is customized for your business needs, our expertly trained staff cleans and decontaminates your property according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention standards.

We use EPA-approved cleaning solutions, including our proprietary cleaning agent SERVPROXIDE, a hospital-grade disinfectant that is NSF certified for direct food contact surface use.

As a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned participant, you’ll provide reassurance to your customers and employees that you’re taking all the steps needed to get the highest level of clean for them. This dedication will be on display through a decal window emblem, and other digital marks to show your commitment to clean.

Restoring Vs. Replacing

7/10/2022 (Permalink)

A kitchen has been mitigated to the point of repairs, now to decide what is repairable and what is replaceable.

SERVPRO specializes in restoring your contents and property after a fire. Some things are irreplaceable, and we have the ability to salvage, clean and restore your items to like new condition. Our processes are tried and true. Not only, are we salvaging your original keepsakes and possessions, but we are saving you money in the process.

The kitchen in the picture has been mitigated and is ready for repairs and or restoration. While some of the structures will only require a little work to repair, some will also need to be replaced completely. 

Check your ceilings for Water Damage

7/10/2022 (Permalink)

These are some obvious signs of water damage, most likely coming from pipes between floors or a leaking roof.

Have you looked at your ceiling and noticed discoloration, bubbling paint, or obvious signs of water?

These can be signs of leaks, or larger problems to come. Especially with all the rain we have been experiencing locally lately.

SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North will scope your home for free, checking for moisture issues and possible microbial growth. Call us today at (336)744-5104 to schedule a scope.

Common Causes of Water Damage

• Frozen, Burst, Broken, or Leaky Water Pipes
• Flooded Basements
• Overflowing Bathtubs, Toilets, or Sinks
• Clogged or Malfunctioning Drains
• Sewage or Septic Tank Backups
• Dishwasher or Washing Machine Overflows or Malfunctions
• Hot Water Tank Floods
• Crawl Space Water Damage
• Sump Pump Failures
• Leaking Roofs or Windows
• Flooding from Heavy Rain Storms

Third Floor Water Loss

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Air movers are set in a hallway to move air in certain directions for the fastest drying possible.

Recently SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North was called to a local retirement community for a water loss coming from a third floor condominium. 

We never like to hear this because we know it effects more than just the one tenant. When there is a third floor water loss, where does the water go? All the way down till it finds the last thing it can wick in to. SERVPRO used our applied Science of drying to quickly mitigate all 3 levels, removing damp insulation, drywall, and drying everyone's condos out with 4 air movers in a vortex and a dehumidifier in each room, making the process extremely fast.

Do you have issues with any type of water around your home or business? Call (336)744-5104 for any questions or help you may need!

Summertime Tips

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

When frustration and heat get the best of you, call SERVPRO for help!!

Get carpets, upholstery, and curtains or draperies professionally cleaned, or look for DIY options. Rent a steam cleaner or invest in your own -- there are a variety of affordable steamer/vacuum combos that you can use again and again. If you have pets, choose a steamer with a special setting for pet hair and stains.

Don’t forget your bed – mattresses, pillows, and comforters could also use a good refresh. Have pets? Invest in new pet beds or wash removable covers then put them outside in the sun to freshen up. This is also a good time to go through your linen closet and replace worn out towels and bedding. Finally, if your throw pillows are a little stale, put them in the dryer with some tennis balls and tumble to get rid of dust, then put them outside to air out.

When all of this doesn't work for your time or favor, call the Pros at SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North!

Response time

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO technician uses an extractor to clean a water loss on a concrete floor.

When it comes to water damage, response time and experience matter. Structural weakening, rot, and dangerous mold growth can occur if the problem isn’t solved quickly or properly. Allow the highly trained pros at SERVPRO to restore your property to its clean and dry state as quickly as possible. We know how stressful this situation can be, and we are here to help with everything from cleanup to dealing with your insurance company.

Is Water Damage Dangerous?

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

A water loss in a basement, could cause structural defects to your home.

Water damage can be and is a serious situation. Water moving through your home or business can carry with it any contaminates that it has come into contact with. Electrical hazards are common when water damage has occurred, so do not enter the area until it’s deemed safe.

Mass amounts of water or contaminated water can also be a danger to anyone who comes into contact with it. It can be difficult to center on what the water contains, and could have chemicals, dirt or bacteria that carry common diseases within it. Also, depending on the size or amount of the water event, structural damage to the property could occur. Water damage may also make the area a harbor for mold and mildew.

Fire Damage & How it effects Your Home

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Remember SERVPRO in the event of a disaster!

SERVPRO of Winston Salem North understands the devastation that occurs when a disaster such as a fire takes place in your home or business. We want our community to see how fire damage effects properties and is educated on how SERVPRO can help them. 

Collapses: If structures in the home like support beams or the roof are affected this could cause more damage to the interior. 

Odor: The longer fire damage sits in a home the worse it gets. The sooner you can get someone to mitigate the job the sooner the smell will improve. 

Water Damage: Damaged piping or a damaged roof can create flooding. 

In the Event of a Disaster remember SERVPRO of Winston Salem North!  

Biohazard Containment

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

A technician in full Tyvek and PPE preps a containment area to limit the biohazards reach.

SERVPRO offers safe & effective crime scene & biohazard cleanup services quickly for homes & businesses due to sewage, trauma, chemical spills & more. We isolate areas as quickly as possible to eliminate contaminates spreading to other areas of your home or business. Whether it be blood, or any bodily fluid, SERVPRO is ready to help!! "Like it never even happened."

Call us today at (336)740-5144 for any issues or questions you may have on the subject!!

Dangers of a Sewage Backup

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

A very realistic view of a Sewage Backup and its effects on all surroundings.

Sewage back ups are among one of the worst plumbing problems because of the risk that they present to homeowners and residents. Sewage can spread illness, disease and even death. The National Resources Defense Council reports that nearly 2 million cases of illnesses are caused by sewage contamination each year. Sewage is full of contaminants, viruses and bacteria that pose a serious threat to people and their pets. In addition, sewage may contain other toxic substances like pesticides, residuals from pharmaceutical drugs, fungi and protozoan.

Here are some of the most common bacteria that are found in sewage and what they can do the human body:

• E. Coli – Causes abdominal cramping, diarrhea and occasionally death.
• Acanthomoeba – Causes eye, nose, throat and ear infections.
• Salmonella – Causes abdominal cramping and diarrhea
• Heliobacter Pylpri – Leads to increased chance of ulcers
• Hepatitis – Causes liver infection and liver failure
• Leptospirosis – Creates muscle aches and vomiting
• Coronavirus – Including COVID-19

Who can work in Biohazard cleanup?

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

A certified and trained SERVPRO Professional in action!

Who can work in biohazard cleanup? Because there is no specific education requirements, certifications, or work experience required to work in biohazard cleanup, it is often believed that anyone can work in biohazard cleanup. The fact is, biohazard cleanup is not for everyone.

Biohazard cleanup can be a stressful, demanding profession that requires you to work long hours and encounter a wide range of tragic circumstances. If you think biohazard cleanup is the same as a standard cleaning company or janitorial service, or if you imagine biohazard cleaning to be similar to your favorite episode of CSI, you will quickly find that neither is true.

The good news is that a career in biohazard cleaning can be incredibly rewarding, as you take some of a family’s burden away and offer them compassion and respect when they need it most. More than anything, biohazard cleanup helps families heal.

Sewage Waste Cleanup

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Trust the Pros at SERVPRO!!

SERVPRO experts are ready to assist in the clean up of sewage and other biohazard materials and provide deep cleaning services for your home. 

Blackwater is the mixture of urine, feces and flushwater. Whenever a commode backs up, or overflows, or the dreaded pipe busts in the crawl space, it is imperative to properly mitigate all contaminated areas as soon as possible!!

Trust the Pros at SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North!!

The Effects of Water on a Grease Fire

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

The definition of a Grease Fire is "The type of fire resulting from cooking oil or any other flammable cooking or lubricating materials."

In the event of a grease fire:

• Turn off the heat, but do not try to move the pot from the stove as the grease could splash on you or the kitchen surfaces.
• Put a lid on the pot or frying pan to cut off oxygen to the fire.
• If the fire is out of control, the most important thing to do is to call 911 and get everyone outside.
• Do NOT pour water on a grease fire. Water can cause the grease to splash onto yourself or kitchen surfaces and spread the flames.
• Do NOT fan the fire with a dry or wet cloth. This can also cause the grease to splash or fire to spread onto other surfaces.
• Do NOT use flour on a grease fire. While sometimes baking soda can extinguish a small grease fire (though not if the fire is too overwhelming), flour cannot and should not be used.
• Due to chemical risk of contaminating your kitchen, putting out a grease fire with your fire extinguisher should be the last resort.

How to prevent a grease fire:

• Stay in the kitchen and keep an eye on the deep fryer or frying pan.
• Slowly heat the oil to your desired temperature.
• Turn off the burner if you suspect the grease is getting too hot.
• Place the food in the grease carefully to prevent hot grease splatter.

Q. What do you do after a grease fire occurs in you home?

A. Contact us at (336)744-5104

Biohazard Clean Up and Bloodborne Pathogens

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

An example of a recent biohazard job involving blood

Biohazard- A biological agent or condition that is a hazard to humans or the environment. Often, this biological waste is pathogenic in nature or contaminated in some way. Biohazards also include potentially infectious agents that present a risk for potential health effects. Biohazard can be found in water damaged buildings where bacteria is present because of a sewage backflow or where fungi is allowed to grow, and the condition eventually affects the health of the building’s occupants.

Biohazards must be eliminated by professionals. If improperly handled, bacteria, viruses and fungi can cause serious health effects. In addition, if improperly handled, the contaminate may remain present in the building, causing a higher risk of exposure to the occupants.

Bloodborne pathogens- A pathogen is something that causes health effects. Germs that can cause health effects in human blood and health effects in humans are called bloodborne pathogens.

It is critical that someone with the proper training take care of the mitigation of blood and other biohazards. Trust the pros at SERVPRO of Winston Salem North, and give us a call at (336)744-5104

Tree Maintenance Before A Winter Storms Strikes!

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Winter is here, which means it’s getting chilly out there. When it gets chilly, water freezes. I’m not forging new ground here but hang with me. This is gonna get useful!

Snowstorms and ice storms are an unusual mix of fun and danger. We’ve all made snowmen and snow angels outside after a good storm dumped some powder on us, but there are downsides too! Snowstorms, and especially ice storms, can bring down trees near your house, destroying power lines, windows, roofs, (etc.)

It’d be prudent as the winter kicks up to be proactive and look around your property for any dead or dying trees or branches hanging out near your house or car or shed and trim those puppies up. It’ll take a few minutes of your time today in exchange for a huge headache later!

Three out of three property owners who trimmed the trees near their homes were grateful afterward. (I only asked three people.) Now chop-chop!

Why you should call SERVPRO of Winston Salem North for residential fire damage services

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Call SERVPRO of Winston Salem North for Residential Fire Damage Services

When you need residential fire damage services, you should contact a locally owned and operated professional that can quickly diagnose the exact nature of your problem and then get right to work on solving it. Fire and smoke are particularly destructive forces that can gut a structure and cause it to be condemned. If your property is suffering from this sort of damage, you may need immediate help to salvage it.

You'll Need a Company That Specializes in Fire Damage Restoration:

After any damage has occurred, you should contact a company immediately for an initial diagnosis. This will then be followed by a team getting directly to work on cleaning up and fully restoring the affected area. Cleanup, removal of debris, neutralization of remaining odors, and purifying of the air can commence quickly to prevent any further health effects that often arise after fire damage. 

Concentrate on Restoration Rather Than Replacement:

The focus of good restoration service should always fixate on restoring your property rather than replacing it. When possible, it's better to isolate quickly and neutralize any issues rather than replace your entire property. Restoration not only costs you less money in the long run, but it also allows you to quickly get back to living your life faster. If parts of the property do need to be completely rebuilt, talk to the company about timelines for the areas that are fixable first, and then concentrate on the areas that need to be entirely redone.

What to Expect From Any Service:

A reputable restoration service will do an immediate assessment of the damage, followed by board-up and tarp service if required. From there, they will remove all affected material and begin airing out and drying the general area. Once all of the debris, smoke, and soot have been eliminated from the area, they can begin restoring your property back to pristine condition.

What to Look For:

It's best to hire a locally owned company that has a focus and connection to your community. You should also ensure that the service personnel you are dealing with are fully qualified, trained, and experienced at diagnosing and solving the problems that affect your property. When you are dealing with severe fire and smoke damage, you want to make sure the company you choose can handle the scope of the project and will help you handle any problems that come up.


SERVPRO of Winston Salem North is a locally owned and operated authority for residential fire damage cleanup and restoration. When fire damage threatens properties in the areas of Winston Salem and the surrounding region, we can help. Contact us now for a prompt response to your fire damage emergency at (336) 744-5104.

What Kind of Content Can Be Saved After a Flood?

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Content Cleaning After Flood Damage

There are many questions that go through your mind after a destructive flood takes hold of your Winston Salem, home. However, one of the most consistent inquiries often relates to the state of your personal belongings and whether or not content cleaning can effectively save them from being removed for good. Here’s a common list of household items that often need to be removed from the home immediately, as well as others that can potentially be saved if black water hasn’t completely consumed the home.

Porous Materials

More often than not, porous materials and furnishings in your home are going to be the most affected by excess water in your living space, simply due to their absorbent nature. Belongings that are most difficult to save include the following:

• Upholstered furniture
• Carpets
• Drapes or curtains
• Saturated woodwork
• Artwork or paperwork
  
  

While there’s no definitive answer that applies to every situation, the majority of these materials can become the most densely saturated and therefore the hardest to clean and restore. However, the result depends on the extent of the water damage overall and how long it takes for you to contact professional restoration services after an event.

Nonporous Materials

Nonporous belongings, such as anything made of plastic, metal, etc., are often the best for content cleaning purposes. Such materials don’t absorb water, making them easy to simply clean off and restore in no time. Electronics or appliances can become unusable if they’re submerged for a significant amount of time, but the result depends on the severity of the water damage.

The biggest factor in determining the survival of any home furnishings is whether or not dangerous black water has come into play. This mixing of sewage and floodwaters can be far more difficult to clean and can lead to fewer items being salvageable, regardless of their material.

Despite what may initially seem like a lost cause, there’s always a possibility of saving your home’s belongings in Winston Salem. Therefore, content cleaning should always be handled by professional restoration specialists who can do their best to save as much as possible. 

Commercial Fires In Winston Salem

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your commercial business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

On average, US fire departments respond to a blaze in a building under construction or major renovation every hour and a half. This is according to the National Fire Protection Association.

They point out that these sites are notoriously rife with fuel, including piles of trash and excess building materials. Combine that with no shortage of ignition sources, ranging from heating and cooking equipment to welding and other hot-work activities, as well as the fact that fire protection systems like sprinklers may not yet be active. It can all add up to an environment primed for a devastating fire.

Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.

Fire damage can be very devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, water damage caused by firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. If you have a fire emergency, call SERVPRO of Winston Salem North.

The SERVPRO of Winston Salem North is composed of our best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

SERVPRO of Winston Salem North has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies.

Call the Cleanup Team That’s Faster to Any Size Disaster

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Imagine it’s 8:00 pm on a Sunday, and you walk into your home after a relaxing vacation expecting to switch on the lights, put the kids to bed then get some rest yourself.

The only problem? A water pipe burst over the weekend, dumping thousands of gallons of water over your hardwood kitchen floor, your carpeted living room floor, and your cement utility room. You realize this problem is far beyond the reach of your shop vac. What do you do now?

No matter what time of day or night, contact your local SERVPRO of Winston Salem North. We can be onsite within 4 hours to begin drying your building and restoring your contents. The faster the water is removed, the less chance of serious damage to your home or business. Every member of our team is trained and understands how to manage the drying process. By utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and the latest technology, your structure will be quickly and thoroughly dried, which helps prevent secondary water damage.

When it is your home or business that is underwater, mitigation cannot wait. You need mitigation to begin immediately. The cost of water damages can increase exponentially with time. Wood floors warp, drywall soaks in moisture and mold develops in hard-to-reach areas of your home or business. So, remember to give your local SERVPRO of Winston Salem North team a call, any time, any day if water damage strikes you or your customers!! We are here to help you!!!

Commercial Biohazard Cleanup

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

While owning or managing a commercial building you may have the occasional blood spill, urine, or feces clean-up. SERVPRO of Winston Salem North is trained in biohazard cleanup. These scenarios can happen easily in your place of business. By understanding the reasoning behind professional clean-up or restoration you will potentially save yourself, employees, tenants, or customers much-unneeded stress and potential health risks.

Blood Spills:

Blood spills are typically defined as any amount of blood that has left a body. This can mean a slip and fall with a skin break or possibly a crime scene. Blood spills can pose major safety hazards that can result in disease if not handled by a professional restoration company like SERVPRO. We have the knowledge to restore the area so that they are free of diseases or risks such as hepatitis, HIV, and other blood-borne pathogens. Our work is not complete until we have removed and properly disposed of all the contaminated materials in accordance with state and federal regulations.

Urine and Feces Clean-Up:

Human and animal excrement are considered bio-hazardous materials. Our SERVPRO technicians follow all of the professional safety norms all while utilizing specialized equipment and training protocols. If left untreated or treated poorly yourself, employees, tenants, or customers may be subjected to disease or viruses such as hepatitis A, E.coli, rotavirus, and norovirus. All of which can be easily avoided by calling in a biohazard professional such as SERVPRO.

If your building has had a blood spill or other bodily fluid issue please call us today at (336)744-5014

Prepare For Floods and Storm Damage

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Unfortunately, the likelihood of floods is increasing across the U.S., even in areas that aren’t usually prone to excess water. But the fact remains that if rain is possible, so are floods.

A flood officially occurs when two or more acres, or two or more properties, have been partially or completely inundated with water.

But if you are facing a flood, the last thing you’ll be worried about is the official definition. You’ll be worried about your safety and the safety of your property.

This blog contains helpful flood preparation tips - not to worry, none of them suggest building an ark.

1. Back-Up Power In an emergency, you should have a generator. It’s impossible to know whether or not a storm or flooding will take out the power – and you don’t want to be left in the dark. The type of generator you need depends on a few different variables.

Don’t forget: water is a conduit for electricity, and after a flood, you’ll be facing a lot of excess water. When you know that flooding is imminent, move all your appliances and electrical devices to safer ground.

2. Risk Level Before flooding is expected, you should become familiar with your property’s risk for floods. Local government and FEMA are good resources for this. A familiarity with flood zones, risks, and causes is the first step of preparation. 

Another smart risk-management tool is a weather radio. Purchase a weather radio and learn how to use it, including what the different emergency notifications mean.

3. Emergency Prep It’s important to have an emergency preparedness kit that can handle any emergency. But you should also have supplies tailor to specific severe weather events. Because floodwater contains contaminants, be sure to pack plenty of clean and fresh water. Choose a waterproof case for your kit and all it contains, like important documents.
4. Evacuation Plan Your evacuation plan should include two things. One: become familiar with the local and federal government plans for evacuation. Second: create a personal evacuation plan and involve all members of the family. The plan should be practiced until everyone has it memorized. Be sure to include an emergency communication plan as part of the overall evacuation plan.

Many floods are caused by severe storms and excess rain. Remember that significant storm damage may be caused and may not be noticeable until after floodwaters recede.

Making Sure Your Family is Prepared for Severe Weather

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Today, we are fortunate to have advance warnings for some types of severe weather, but there are also times where Mother Nature manages to catch us by surprise.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take and safety tips to follow that will guide you in preparing for your family’s safety in various severe weather occurrences.

Where to Start

One of the best ways to ensure your family’s safety is to have an established family emergency plan at the ready.

Be sure to go over your plan together as a family at the beginning of each weather season if there is an emergency plan in place so everyone knows exactly what to do.

Here are some things to take into consideration when creating your family emergency plan if you have not yet done so:

1. How will emergency alerts and warnings be received?

Thanks to technology today, emergency alerts and warnings are at our fingertips with our smartphones that are equipped with a weather app or Google. We can quickly receive emergency alerts, that provide us with valuable time in severe weather situations. Warnings and alerts are also still broadcast over radio and TV.

2. What type of storm shelter do you have?

Where tornadoes are a common occurrence, you’ll want to be in the lowest part of your home, preferably a basement, or if there is no basement, use an interior room on the lowest level that is away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Tornadoes aren’t the only weather circumstance that requires a form of storm shelter, and you can learn about more of the situations that call for them by visiting ready.gov.

3. What are the evacuation routes?

Have you mapped out multiple evacuation routes because hurricanes, flooding, and fires can force you from your home at a moment’s notice? It’s wise to have multiple routes in the event one is impassable, and be sure you find places to stay with your pets along the way if you have furry family members involved in your evacuation.

4. How will everyone stay in touch?

Cell phones are the easiest way to keep in touch with your family, but in some circumstances, that just will not be possible. Cell phone towers can be damaged and phones could be lost or left behind; not to mention batteries will not last forever and there will be no power to recharge them.

Your family should have an emergency communication plan in place as well as a safe meeting place so that you can all meet there if separated.

If a storm does cause damage to your home or business, don’t hesitate to call your friends at SERVPRO® of Winston Salem North to get the cleanup and restoration process started.

Commercial Division

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Commercial cleaning and restoration present unique challenges. Our goal is to provide excellent results while minimizing disruption to your clients. SERVPRO of Winston Salem North is fully equipped to take on your commercial property no matter the size of the job.

Commercial Services:

• Air Ducts / HVAC
• General & Specialty Cleaning
• Post Construction Cleaning
• Punch List Services
• Dry Ice Blasting
• Power Washing
• Biohazard & Sewage
• Odor Removal / Deodorization

We offer our services to any time of the commercial property:

• Small/Large Office Buildings
• High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

For any additional information, please feel free to contact our office for all of your commercial property needs.

Dirty Ducts In Your Winston Salem Business?

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

The fact of the matter is your office air is filled with dust, dust mites, animal dander, mold, and other unhealthy elements. Unless you address the situation now, the air quality will continue to deteriorate.

Your local franchisee wants to ensure that you, your employees, and customers are breathing healthy air. Unnecessary dirt and debris can pose a serious threat to the health of your employees if they are not properly maintained.

Some things to consider by scheduling a duct cleaning for your business:

Improved Health Poor indoor air quality ranks among the top five environmental risks to your health.

Energy consumption Clean ducts help lower your utility bill and help your HVAC unit last longer.

Smelly air Odors will continue to plague your business long after you remove the offensive item if the odor is in your ducts.

Microbial growth can grow in your duct system especially if your business suffered recent water damage from the hurricane.

For the sake of your customers and employees, you need to know the air you breathe at your business is free from contaminants. 

Typical Commercial Water Loss Causes

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Commercial water losses cause extreme damage. To restore a commercial property to its originality will always involve insurance, and how long it may take varies. At SERVPRO of Winston Salem North, we want your business to be open, so we work as quickly as possible to repair and restore any damage done to your business. There are many causes of commercial water loss, and it is vital to the health and safety of the employees for action to be taken immediately if any signs of a water loss are found. The most common water loss causes in a commercial building are damaged window seals, damaged pipes, cracked foundations, inadequate drainage systems, roof leaks, HVAC leaks, sewage backups, and sprinkler system damages or malfunctions. If these damages are left sitting for too long, it could cause mold and mildew growth, which is harmful.  If you notice any of these issues, call SERVPRO of Winston Salem North. We can connect you to the right subcontractor if necessary and dry any water damage and restore the building “Like it never even happened.”

Wind damage can lead to water damage

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

When Lanie Pope says to expect “damaging winds” from a storm she is forecasting, what does she mean exactly? And what does it mean to you a home or business owner? Damaging winds are classified as those exceeding 50-60 mph. Often, called “straight-line” winds to differentiate the damage they cause from tornado damage. Wind damage can lead to a roof leak and could be covered by insurance depending on your policy.

This type of damage can come from a number of different processes. Most thunderstorm winds that cause damage to the ground are a result of outflow generated by a thunderstorm downdraft. Damage from severe thunderstorm winds accounts for half of all severe reports in the lower 48 states and is more common than damage from tornadoes or hail. Wind speeds can reach up to 100 mph and can produce a damage path extending for hundreds of miles. 

Who is at risk from damaging winds? Anyone living in thunderstorm-prone areas of the world is at risk of experiencing this hazard. But, people living in mobile homes are especially at risk for injury and death. Even anchored mobile homes can be seriously damaged when winds gust over 80 mph.

SERVPRO of Winston Salem North can help with water damage inside your home or business. For disaster recovery services related to a storm call us directly at 336-744-5104

Who to Call For Water and Fire Damage Emergencies

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Homeowners and business owners have many choices when they have a fire or water damage emergency. The choices can be overwhelming and sometimes confusing on who to call. Should you call a local company or take the recommendation of a friend or insurance agent, the choice comes down to ultimately who you feel confident in and comfortable having in your home. At SERVPRO of Winston Salem North, we try to be the best restoration company in the area with excellent communication, trust, and being there when called upon. If you have questions about us or our services, please don't hesitate to call. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Having a company that can coordinate the whole process from start to finish makes your life easier and gets you back in your home or business faster. "Like it never even happened."

If you would like more information on hiring a team experienced in water damage restoration, call SERVPRO of Winston Salem North today (336) 744-5104.

We Are Sanitation And Biohazard Experts

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

SERVPRO is Here in your community, and Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• High Traffic Areas
• Required Touch Areas (doorknobs, chair backs, etc)
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Winston Salem North

336 744 5104

or EMAIL

sp9743@gmail.com

The Best Biohazard Cleaning Company In Winston Salem

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health effects. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO of Winston Salem North is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe homes and offices. 

Please refer to our Biohazard Emergency Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Need Biohazard Cleanup Services?

Call Us Today – (336) 744-5104

The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience is key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances.

We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include the following:

• Sewage backups
• Crime scene residues
• Suicide/death accidents
• Homicide cleanups
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup

Why SERVPRO For Water Damage Cleanup

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Flooding and water damage events in Winston Salem's commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response.

Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area.

In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints.

We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

Indoor Flooding

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

So, What Causes Indoor Flooding?

Water damage usually has one major leading cause: indoor flooding. Some of the most common causes of indoor flooding are: 

• Leaky or Broken Pipes: The most obvious cause of indoor flooding is leaky or broken water pipes. Pipes can burst from changes in water pressure or even a faulty setup, but regardless of the cause, pipe problems often cause a ton of damage. Leaky pipes are usually a warning sign of more problems to come. Hidden floods caused by broken pipes in your walls can even create the perfect environment for microbial growth.
• Faulty Washing Machine Hose: The most common problem with watching machines are faulty hoses. A leak in your intake hose can worsen over time and can cause flooding in your home. 
• Water Heaters: Even a small leak in your water heater can cause major flooding due to its endless flow of water. Make sure to inspect your water heater on a regular basis, keeping up with maintenance to ensure it doesn’t spring a leak.
• Clogged Sewer or Drain Lines: The flow of water to and from your house can be disrupted when you have clogged sewer or drain lines. Some clogs might be benign, allowing for a slow drain that is merely an inconvenience. But those clogs can get worse over time. The clog can cause your sinks, toilets, and showers to overflow with water, resulting in major damage. This can even include backed-up sewage, causing a hazardous environment for anyone or anything that comes in contact with the affected water. 

If you find flooding inside your home, call us and we will be there to help.

After The Storm: Know What To Look For In Your Winston Home

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

We hear almost daily about being prepared. Whether it’s something simple like preparing for the first day of school or something more serious like preparing your home for possible storms, having a checklist may help prevent you from becoming overwhelmed.

If you have structural damage from a storm, vacate the property immediately and contact your first responders, your insurance agent, and the SERVPRO of Winston Salem North. While your agent starts the claims process, our team of highly trained technicians can begin securing your property once first responders deem it safe to enter. Our team will board up windows, tarp roofs and check for other visible damage. At the same time, first responders begin to assess any other emergency needs such as downed powerlines or other safety concerns.

Once the property is secure, you or the team of SERVPRO of Winston Salem North can begin taking photos of the damage before anything is moved. Once all the damage has been documented, our technicians will begin to assess what can be saved.

We would begin inspection of your home, looking for cracks, leaks, and other structural damage so a plan of action can be implemented. We highly recommend that you don’t try to do this yourself. If not correctly handled, storm-damaged can lead to further problems such as mold in your home. To learn more or schedule your free estimate, give us a call at 336-744-104. 

What's That Smell? Common Sources Of Odor Problems in Your Winston Salem Business

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster at your business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Winston Salem North has seen a wide variety of problems with odors and their sources. Commercial deodorization can be tricky, but here are some of the most common odor problems in business.

Restrooms

In restrooms, the most common source of odor is urine. In the men's room, urine tends to seep behind urinals and splash on walls. Regular mopping with a disinfecting solution is a must to control odors, wiping down the walls. In the ladies' room, watch for odor from the feminine hygiene waste receptacles—daily emptying and disinfecting as needed.

Drain Odors

Drains come in all sizes and use in a business; kitchen drains, floor drains, and even sinks can be the source of foul odors. It is recommended to flush out drains regularly to clean out food, debris, and bacteria that can cause unpleasant odors in your business.

Mold and Mildew

If your business has a musty smell, you may have an issue with mold or mildew. Mold and mildew usually form in areas with higher moisture content, such as basements, crawlspaces, laundry facilities, or restrooms. At SERVPRO of Winston Salem North, we offer free mold checks. Our team of IICRC trained technicians can assess if it's mold or mildew and determine if it's an issue you can handle or if you need professional assistance.

If your business has an issue with mold or an unpleasant odor, give us a call at (336) 744-5104 for your no-cost assessment. Because at SERVPRO, we're here to help.

Was Your Business Impacted by Hurricane Ida? Here Is What To Do Next..

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster at your business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Most business owners in our areas are aware of basic steps that should be taken before a hurricane, such as maintaining a preparedness plan, backing up computer files, and keeping a store of emergency materials. Some even develop plans for contacting employees. To keep the business flow as continuous as possible, managers need to know what to do just after the storm. By following the steps below, you can return to normal operations in no time.

1. Contact Your Insurance Provider

Begin the claim filing process for any major damages as soon as possible. More details on the damages later, but the sooner you start, the better.

2. Wear Safety Gear

It is important to take the proper safety precautions if you are going to visit your property post-hurricane.

3. Document the Damage

As you assess the scope of the damage, remember to take pictures of any damage you see and to make detailed notes for your insurance claim and company records. *The photos you took before the storm will come in handy now!*

4. Salvage What You Can

Attempt to remove any debris that you can. Remember, buildings can be structurally unsafe so it is wise to only do as much as you know won't cause further damage to yourself or the property.

5. Find the Right Professional Help

Here at SERVPRO of Winston Salem North, we know how to tackle jobs of all sizes and get your business back in shape quickly. We can guide you through the entire restoration process and have proven experience helping businesses recover after hurricane flood damage. We make it "Like it never even happened."

Is Your Business Properly Prepared?

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster at your business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

When a disaster strikes the time to prepare has passed. Don’t be one of the 60% of businesses that do not have a formal emergency response plan. Roughly 80% of businesses are likely to go out of business if they do not recover after a disaster within a months’ time, and 50% of businesses never reopen. The best way to protect your company is to have a solid game plan. Is your business prepared for a natural disaster to hit?

Well, you are in luck; SERVPRO of Winston Salem North is here to help! We have been working with local businesses to ensure that they will not fall victim to these statistics.

SERVPRO has an amazing program called the EMERGENCY READY PROFILE. This program aids property managers and owners, both residential and commercial to be prepared for a disaster to hit.

We will walk you step by step to help you put together an EMERGENCY READY PROFILE. We will help you identify and label utility shut-off locations, identify local utility contact information, identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts, and establish main internal contacts for purposes of employee safety and emergency work authorization.

For more information please contact SERVPRO of Winston Salem North  @  (336) 744-5104 

We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. "Like it never even happened."

4 Things To Do If Your Home Floods

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster at your business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Rain, rain, and more rain. They’re moments in the year, sometimes too many where our community goes days on end with rain. Then changing over to snow and ice in the winter if the temperatures manage to drop below freezing for a substantial amount of time. While snow is pretty to look at, what often accompanies it is a fearful weather condition. Ice can cause trees to topple over onto your roof creating a hole where water can seep into all areas of your home including the basement. 

Falling trees can rupture the pipes of your home as well which may cause hundreds if not more gallons of water to spew out into your basement, flooring, walls, and ceiling. Any amount of standing water in your home may spell disaster if not mitigated promptly. Significant water damage can begin to warp your hardwood floors, stain your carpeting, and create a mold growth situation.

Calling an experienced water cleanup crew with IICRC Certification and experience in restoration is key to beginning the process of getting your home back to normal. Our team is trained in proper drying methods and mold testing to help keep your family safe. We’ll also reconstruct your house after it’s been restored to streamline the process. 

When many customers call our office to request our services it’s critical you’ve already completed a few tasks beforehand. Listed below are a few key steps homeowners should take if they experience water damage. 

1. Shut Off The Water Source
1. Locate the cut-off valve in your home. It’s likely underneath your kitchen or bathroom sink. 
2. Do What You Can In Order To Mitigate The Damage
1. Try to soak as much water as you can on your own using towels. 
3. Call A Water Cleanup Company
1. Available 24/7 with 20+ years of experience and contractor license for repairs. 
4. Speak To Your Home Insurance Provider  
1. Save your insurance agent’s contact information on your phone, or write it down. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Winston Salem North, 336-744-5104.

A SERVPRO Commercial Emergency Ready Plan

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster at your business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

There are almost 1 million small businesses across North Carolina, with almost 2 million employees.  That would roughly be 45% of the workforce across the state. That is a staggering number and a huge boon for us! It’s Truly Amazing how great our small state is for Entrepreneurs.  Winston Salem is currently in the midst of re-energizing downtown and the triad itself is growing exponentially every year. 

With all that growth, there is bound to be some downfall. Most Small Businesses fail within 3 years, and it’s not always the business’s fault. We encounter some that go under because of infrastructure and plain old bad luck and timing. One of the best courses of action to prevent a catastrophic loss for your company is an Emergency Readiness Plan ( ERP )

What is an Emergency Readiness Plan?

ERP is the best way to mitigate damages to your company in case of a loss which may include

• Fire 
• Fire or smoke damage from faulty wiring
• Fire damage from a restaurant kitchen fire
• Water 
• Water heater failure
• Sewage back up
• Mold 
• Previous water damage that was not mitigated properly
• Leaking Roof
• Dirty HVAC
• Crime or Vandalism  
• Storm
• Hurricane
• Flash flooding

Most Homeowners are not able to locate their water shut-off valve, so to assume your employees know where that may be located is just plain bad planning.  Fortunately for the small business in Winston-Salem, we provide an ERP for Free! All you need to do is call and set up a time and date, and one of our associates will come out and set everything up. We recently updated our program to include an App, but it’s also easily accessible online, or we can always print a quick folder for you to keep in your office.

What To Do Before A Hurricane Arrives

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

As many of you know hurricane Ida swept through Louisiana, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Luckily it skipped over North Carolina but in the event, one does pass over us during this hurricane season knowing what to do before it hits can help prevent damage or loss to your family, house, and property. 

First things first, in the event of an emergency, please call 911.

Knowing the emergency contact numbers for Winston-Salem is very important.

City of Winston-Salem Police and Fire Department

• Emergency 911
• Non-Emergency 336-773-7700
• Twitter of Winston Salem Fire Department
• Twitter for Winston Salem Police Department
• Winston Salem Road Conditions

Local Weather News

• https://www.wxii12.com/
• https://myfox8.com/

List of Necessary Items before a hurricane 

1. An Emergency Readiness Plan for your family
2. 3 days worth of water;
   a good rule of thumb is 1 gallon of water for each person or pet
3. 3 days of nonperishable food for each person or pet
4. First Aid Kit
5. Battery Powered Radio or NOAA radio alert 
6. Portable Power bank to charge cell phones
7. Full Tank of Gas in your car
8. Batteries
9. Whistle to Signal for Help

How to Help your House survive the hurricane

• Cover your windows with a storm shutter or plywood, or use Tape. While tape won’t prevent your windows from breaking, it will help keep the broken glass shards together.
• Learn if you are in an area that floods, and how to properly sandbag your home.
  How to Sandbag your Home or Business.
• Clean out your rain gutters.

How to help your pet during a hurricane 

• Please, if possible, provide shelter for your pets. 
• If your pet goes missing know where to look.
  Forsyth Humane Society.
• Spare Medication for your pets.
• Copy of shot and medication records.

Make sure you know where to go to track hurricanes to ensure if it is headed your way. 

https://www.nesdis.noaa.gov/real-time-imagery/hurricane-tracker

Emergency Fire Damage Tips

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Did you know every 90 seconds a residential fire occurs somewhere in the U.S.? If a fire strikes your home or business, know that SERVPRO of Metairie is here to help

Until a SERVPRO professional arrives, here are some DO’s and DON’Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration:

DO:

• Limit movement in the home and keep your hands clean. This helps prevent soot particles from being embedded into your carpet or upholstery.
• Place old, dry colorfast towels or linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator completely and prop the doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances. Protect the surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• Change your HVAC filter.

DON’T:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces, or clean any carpet or upholstery, without first contacting a SERVPRO professional.
• Consume any food, beverages, or medicines that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

For other emergency tips for your home, please contact SERVPRO of Winston Salem North 

How soot travels through a home

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

If a fire has occurred in your home or business you likely will notice soot throughout the entire property, not just in the area where the fire occurred. So how does this happen? How can you get rid of the soot? Keep reading to find out more information about how soot travels during a fire and what you can do about it. 

What Is Soot?

Soot is a black powdery or flakey substance that is produced when organic matter burns incompletely. This means that when things burn, they don’t completely disappear, they leave behind particles known as soot. Because soot comes from the burning of many different materials, it can also contain things like acids, chemicals, metals, soils, and dust. These soot particles leave behind a mess and often a foul smell. 

How Soot Travels

When there is a fire in your home, soot can easily travel throughout your whole home. The ultra-light particles can float through the air and reach surfaces throughout your whole home. If the air conditioning or heat is running soot can even enter your HVAC system which will disperse soot throughout your whole home. When this happens air ducts should be cleaned to eliminate the HVAC system further dispersing soot throughout your home. 

Can Soot Damage My Home?

Because soot has acidic properties it can further damage your home and harm indoor air quality. Soot can continue to degrade the surfaces and air quality in your home if it is not cleaned immediately.

What If There Wasn’t A Fire?

If you notice soot in your home, but there was never a fire, you might be wondering where the soot came from. Even if there wasn’t a fire, things like fireplaces, furnaces, and excessive use of candles can cause soot building throughout your home. 

Is Soot Dangerous

Soot inhalation can be dangerous which is why you should only enter your home after it has been deemed safe by the Charlotte Fire Department and a fire restoration company. Improperly cleaning soot can lead to excessive inhalation of soot, and soot can be left behind, causing health effects in the future.

How To Clean Soot

Cleaning soot can be difficult to remove from many surfaces as it is a sticky substance and can stain fabrics. Additionally, cleaning soot improperly can mean breathing in soot particles. 

When cleaning soot, safety equipment is essential for reducing the danger of soot exposure. Specialized techniques such as air scrubbing may be necessary to reduce linger scents and restore air quality. 

Using household cleaners to clean soot isn’t enough. Soot particles will leave behind a smell and stain surfaces when professional tools and cleaners are not used. Fire restoration experts will be able to save your personal belongings that can’t be cleaned with household products. 

If your home has experienced a fire and is in need of restoration experts, be sure to call SERVPRO of Winston Salem North. Our expert technicians can make it "Like it never even happened."

The Right Equipment Is Necessary!

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

SERVPRO of Winston Salem North knows that using the proper equipment makes a difference. When time matters and it does when reducing claim loss expense, you can count on us to have the right technology and equipment to get the job done.

For example, one of the most common losses is water loss. Here is some information on the drying process. 

Psychrometrics is the study of the air and its properties. The properties of temperature, humidity, and vapor pressure. Dew points are measured to evaluate air conditions in the structure. These measurements allow for SERVPRO of Washington County to create the proper atmosphere for the most effective drying.

There is a science to drying everything properly.

The detection equipment used is always the most current in the industry. 

Moisture Sensors, Moisture Meters, Thermo-hygrometers, Infrared Cameras, and Manometers are some of the detection equipment.

Extraction Equipment, Air Moving Equipment, Dehumidification Equipment, Deodorization Equipment are all used in the drying process. 

When it comes to drying we take it seriously

Tips That Can Prevent Fire Damage In Your Home!

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Nobody wants to think about the risk of a fire in their home. However, it is something you should think about and things you can do to help prevent it. We are going to discuss the prevention tips today.

- Practice basic fire prevention around the house.

~ Avoid smoking and leaving smoking materials laying around.

~Keep heating equipment clean and in repair.

~ Never leave candles unattended.

- Make sure your smoke detectors work. (test them twice a year)

- Know what flammable materials are and store them away from all heating equipment.

- Teach your kids fire safety.

~ Make sure your family knows what to do in the event of fire & have an evacuation plan.

- Be Prepared!

~ Keep important documents, photos, and valuables in a fireproof safe.

- Take extra precautions during the holidays when you are decorating to avoid fire hazards.

Be prepared and practice fire prevention tips to stay safe! SERVPRO of Winston Salem North wants you to know what you can do to stay safe. But we are always here for you in the event of a disaster.

Supply Lines

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

We recently had a water loss come in from the supply lines of a refrigerator. The homeowner had asked what he could have done to prevent this from happening. The short answer is to simply replace your supply lines about every five years according to the industry standard.

Now to go into more detail the warranty on your appliances is five years. However, the warranty on your supply lines is only a year. So, our advice to you is to change your supply lines about once a year but it could be between 1-5 years. Supply lines are made up of two different materials. You have a copper supply line where they use pressure fittings to pressure fit it to the back of the appliance. You also have one that is a rubber hose with a mesh outside to try and keep it from splitting and causing problems.

Here at SERVPRO of Winston Salem North, we do this to educate our customers. We want our customers to learn the maintenance in their homes but also want them to know we are here when disaster strikes.

Smoke Detectors

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

We have just started a new segment on our TikTok page called Tech Tuesday. We will go out to lunch every week and talk to a tech about simple things in a home that homeowners should know.

If you are a new homeowner or just moved out and are renting you may not know simple things that could be very helpful in your home. Our first topic this week was smoke detectors. You should be changing your smoke detector batteries twice a year. A good way to remember to change the batteries is to do it when the time changes. Hard wired smoke detectors also require batteries and you can write the date you changed the batteries on the smoke detector cover to help you remember. Smoke detectors should be replaced every ten years to make sure they are up to date. You should also be testing your smoke detectors about once a month to ensure that if something happens you are keeping yourself and your family safe. They have a test button on the alarm you can push to ensure they are working properly.

Even though SERVPRO of Winston Salem North is always here to help in the event something happens. We also want to educate our customers on what they should be doing in their homes to stay safe.

What To Expect When We Arrive

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

When a customer calls in the event of a disaster in their home we do our very best to ensure them we will be there every step of the way and we will get their home put back together quickly and diligently. We will work with our customers on priorities and order of events that need to happen to allow their life to go back to normal as soon as possible.

We will get our crew out on site and they will begin by going over paperwork with the customer. The crew will now be able to begin extracting any water that needs to be before starting demo on items not salvageable. The crew will set equipment to prevent any more damage and to professionally dry the structure. The crew will monitor the drying process and will pick up equipment when the structure dries to standard. Once the drying and mitigation is completed we can help you move on to the next phase, the restoration process. This is when we will work with you and help guide you to put your home back together. Let us know if we can help you in a difficult time and make it "Like it never even happened." We are always here to help.

Why do we do what we do ?

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

When we start to tell people what we do, we tend to get some crazy looks. Yes, we do fire and water cleanup and restoration but when we tell people about some of our bio jobs and other jobs we have done it is hard for them to believe and they never knew we do these other things.

Our main focus and concern is our customers! We want to make sure we are giving them the best of everything. Most of the time when our customers call us we know they are already not having the best day. All we want to do is help! We also understand that when our crew gets in the home and begins demo it is hard to live out of your home and our main concern is getting your home back together.

We are currently working on a fire job. The homeowners were pretty upset. We were able to talk to them and tell them that we are going to be sure to put their house back together and be there every step of the way. To be able to help people the way we do makes each and every one of us feel so good! You will be surprised how great it feels to be able to help people that really need it. That is why we do what we do!

Why Should You Call SERVPRO of Winston Salem North

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Here at SERVPRO of Winston Salem North, we care so much about our customers. We want our customers to know how much we appreciate them but also why it is important to pick a restoration company you can trust.

It is very important to us that we...

- Have a quick response rate. In most situations, it is better to get there as quickly as possible to avoid the problem from becoming more complicated or worse.

- Have highly trained teams.We want to do everything we can to ensure our customers are receiving the best services.

- Offer a detailed plan for mitigation and repairs.We understand that living in your home after a disaster is hard. We strive to provide a plan you thoroughly understand so that we can put your home back together quickly and precisely

- Know how to navigate through the insurance claims process with you.We completely understand our customers have a lot on their plate when they call us. The last thing they want to do is try to understand the insurance process. We do our very best to explain everything and answer any and every question our customer has.

- Treat you, your home, and its contents with respect.Ultimately your home deserves the best care and so do you!

How Should You Handle Water Damage In Your Home?

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Water damage in your home can be frustrating but it does not have to be difficult. Our team has a few simple and easy steps to simplify the process before we arrive.

- Locate where the water damage has occurred in your home.

- Find the water shut off in your home and cut the water off.

- Call your insurance company and inform them of the damage.

-Call SERVPRO of Winston Salem North for extraction, mitigation, and reconstruction.

- Our team is available 24/7. Day or night. Call us at (336) 744-5104

We are HERE TO HELP

Our crew lives by the 1-4-8 protocol: an after-hours emergency code to keep our customer's damage from escalating and providing a plan of action for mitigation.

1- Guaranteed call back within one hour.

4- The crew will arrive on the scene within four hours of the initial call.

8- Written plan of action for mitigation.

We understand that when our customers call us, they are usually not having the best day. This is why our crew not only arrives with professionalism and experience but also with a level-headed mentality as we work to bring calm into the chaos.

House Fires

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Our repair team has just finished a home that had a devastating amount of damage from a fire that started in the kitchen. The homeowner was there starting dinner and got distracted... it only took minutes until there were flames. I had gotten some before pictures where we could see the damage that the fire had caused. In the images, you could see the soot webs all over the ceilings and walls. This is where the soot particles bond together, clinging to walls and ceilings, creating webs resembling cobwebs. At first, our production team went to the home to do the demo and clean. Then our repair team was able to step in where they put in all new flooring, painted all the walls, and put in new appliances. After a big majority of the work was done it did not even look like the same home. We were so excited to begin allowing the homeowner to start moving back into her home that just had a complete makeover. She was ready and so were we! We were so appreciative of the homeowner for allowing us to do the work in her home like we are with all of our customers. We left her a boutique of flowers and a thank you card. We did that so she would understand how thankful we were and in hopes, if something else, unfortunately, happens she would know to call us or could refer us to someone she knows.

Why You Should Call A Professional

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Winston Salem North (336) 744-5104

When something traumatic happens to your home it is very important you know what you should do. Here at SERVPRO of Winston Salem North we understand that it can be very stressful and overwhelming. We strive to do our very best to ensure our customers are satisfied and can understand what we are doing and why it is important.

There is a lot of important reasons as to why you should call professionals. I am going to use water damage for this example. We get a lot of water loss jobs and unfortunately it is a common event that happens in homes from time to time. We want you to understand why it is important to call us.

-Even if it looks dry, it may still be wet.We know your first instinct will be to try and clean the water up. However, not everything can be soaked up with a towel!

-We have a plan.We want you to be happy with our work! So we will have a thought out plan on how to put your house back together including everything from the demolition to repair process.

-We have the right equipment.We have professional drying equipment specialized to dry out walls and floors.

-We help prevent bacteria growth.The water has a high chance of being contaminated after being filtered through all the building equipment in your home.

- We help save your possessions.Any of your contents that are affected by a loss we can bring to our shop where we ensure it gets cleaned properly.

We hate these traumatic event happens to our customers but we strive to ensure they get the best services!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

We are certified in cleaning!

We recently got called to a job where someone had just purchased a home they loved. However, the previous homeowners smoked inside for a while. The home was covered in nicotine from top to bottom. The walls that were painted white looked yellow. The realtor reached out to us and our crew went in to give the home a deep cleaning.

Our crew made the home look brand new. They ripped the carpet and the carpet pad up to eliminate the smell. After everything was out of the home they began wiping down the ceilings and walls. They had it looking and smelling great. The new homeowner was so pleased with our crew and stated that they were doing an excellent job. She was so thankful SERVPRO of Winston Salem North was able to help her out so much.

So the next time you are in a bind, needing help and do not know which way to turn, reach out to SERVPRO of Winston Salem North. No matter what it is we can help!

What To Do During A Flash Flood

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Know what to do and who to call!

Flash floods happen... and they happen FAST. Here lately especially, we have been getting late afternoon thunder storms that bring a lot of rain. In situations like this you should be educated on how to protect yourself and your home.

First and foremost you need to be aware. Watch the forecast to know when and where it is coming.

Try to avoid driving to keep yourself safe. It can be very dangerous. Its hard to see and there is a lot of standing water you need to watch out for... "Turn around, Don't drowned" !!

Seal any cracks in your foundation of your home.

Be sure your gutters are cleaned out. This will prevent damage to your roof.

Take precautions before buying home. Know if you are in a flood hazard or not so you know in advance how you need to prepare.

To prevent damage to the outside of the house make sure you are bringing in anything that could blow around and break a window for instance.

The most important in my opinion is just that you are aware of any of this before it happens. Life happens and your home may flood. That's why SERVPRO of Winston Salem North is HERE TO HELP.

Tips That Can Help Prevent Water Damage In Your Home!

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Know what do to and who to call in the event that something happens like this happens in your home !

Buying a home is a huge investment, it's probably the biggest purchase most people make in their lifetime. Going into buying a home you need to be thinking about how you have to keep up the maintenance and in the event something happens you know what to do and who to call. 

Water damage is a big loss people unfortunately deal with in homes from time to time. There is some things you can actually do to help prevent it. 

- Make sure you are keeping your gutters cleaned out to keep standing water from damaging your roof. 

- Know where your main shut offs are in your home. 

- Monitor your water bill. If one month its extremely high, you may have a leak some where. 

- Consider getting a leak detector.

- Fix any small leaks now so they do not get out of hand!

 Here at SERVPRO of Winston Salem North we want you to be prepared if something happens and we also want you to know you can call us anytime and we will be there to help. 

What you can do to get ready for Grilling Season!

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Nobody ever thinks this could happen to them. Be cautious and safe!

We hope everyone had a wonderful and safe Memorial Day!... But now it is time people are going to be bringing out their grills for the summer and we want you to be safe. 

First thing when you bring out your grill you want to give it a basic scrub and wipe down. You do not want to place your grill near your home and you never want to grill in a garage or on your patio. 

Be sure before firing your grill up, you check for any gas leaks, check all the connections and make sure it is all cleaned out. This link will give you some tips.  

https://www.thebbqdepot.com/blog/get-your-grill-ready-for-summer/

While grilling make sure you always have an eye out. Often time fires are started from children and pets knocking the grill over. 

Here at SERVPRO we never want anyone to go through any type of traumatic event but we know it happens. In the event something does happen we are HERE TO HELP and will do anything and everything we can to satisfy our customers.  

Has Your Dog Ever Destroyed Your House ?

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Who would have thought something this tiny could make such a big mess!?

A big majority of people have pets in their home, especially dogs! But have you ever came home to a mess that your dog left for you? It sucks! Pets can start acting out for multiple reasons. They could be getting older, trying to adjust to a new environment or they could just be doing it out of spite. I recently went out to a job site where the homeowner's dogs had been using the bathroom in the house while they left them home during the day. It had been going on for a couple of weeks. The floors were the most affected and everything had went into the cracks and around the baseboards. Along with that there was also just basic general cleaning that needed to be done. It had gotten to the point where the homeowners needed some help to clean the house. They were planning on moving out and selling the home, but wanted it to look and smell CLEAN! Soo.. They reached out to SERVPRO Of Winston-Salem North for help! We tackled the job and cleaned from top to bottom. We cleaned the walls, floors, cabinets (inside and out) and the bathrooms. Everything we did was to insure the customer was getting the best of the best. The home looked so much better, you could tell a world of a difference and after we were finished the customer was very satisfied. 

Flood Damage could affect your Winston-Salem Home

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Help Us Help You When Flood Damage Descends on Winston-Salem

Our Winston-Salem customers can make a substantial positive impact on the harm flooding can inflict on their home and its contents. Making some changes in how you store items or install systems or appliances can avoid a significant catastrophe if extreme seasonal weather strikes. If you travel or reside in another location for part of the year, establishing a relationship with our team can give you peace of mind even if you are elsewhere when flooding threatens. 

Hurricane season stretches over half the year, and even less intense weather systems can expose your Winston-Salem home to flood damage. Having a personal safety plan for yourself and every member of your family is wise. Extending this concept to preparing for potential damage to your home makes sense. 

Be prepared with the SERVPRO ERP Plan 

SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North offers both business and residential customers the opportunity to collaborate with us to design an individualized Emergency Ready Plan and Profile (ERP). We send an experienced project manager or SMR sales and marketing rep to your home.  While there, we check the layout and evaluate the strengths and vulnerabilities of your storage, utility, and other systems, and more. 

How to “Weather the Storm”

Expect recommendations to make your home and contents less likely to sustain significant flood damage. Moving items to higher ground and clearing the way to shut off and control panels make it easier for us to respond safely to any emergency. As we work with you developing the ERP, we come to a consensus on the best ways to approach a flood in your home. We need to understand your priorities.  We show you how we intend to mitigate and remediate a possible flooding event. 

Contact information is crucial

SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North also suggests you nominate a local contact to act on your behalf if you are unavailable during a flooding event. Even if friends or family are vacationing in your home, it is a good idea to have a preselected point person both you and our team relies upon if a disaster occurs. 

SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North encourages proactivity to our busy customers. To ready yourself and your property or business for flood damage, call (336) 744-5104 to schedule an ERP assessment.

Protecting your business from flooding.

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

At SERVPRO of Winston Salem North, we understand that your business is important to you.  Our restoration professionals work hard to help restore homes and businesses in our local community daily.  We are equipped with the expertise and technology to restore your property from any size disaster.  However, there are steps you can take on your own to prevent damages to your business.

• Start with a thorough risk analysis. Plan for emergencies and obtain insurance coverage that will cover your business in the event of a flood. Consider any damages to property as well.
• Pay attention to weather alerts in your area.
• Ensure that all gutters are inspected and clear of dirt and debris regularly.
• Install barriers to prevent water from getting inside.
• Use flood-resistant materials in any new construction to your business.
• Relocate your files to a safe location, and back them up.

These measures will protect your business in the event of flooding and drastically minimize the damages to your commercial property.  

Grease should never go down the drain

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

The fats in the grease and oil from your kitchen mix with the other chemicals in the sewers and form nasty conglomerations of chemicals that can build up and block the pipes that take our dirty water to the wastewater treatment plant.

When you pour grease into your sink it's just the beginning of its travels. The grease and oil head down your pipes and into the sewers where they meet up with all the other wastewater from the area. Here is where the nastiness starts.

The fats in the grease get broken down into their component parts — fatty acids and glycerol. These fatty acids bind calcium found in the sewers — created from biological processes including the corrosion of concrete — to create a "soap" compound. While it's called a "soap" because of its chemical composition, this isn't something you'd want to wash yourself with.

When you do accidentally get some grease in your pipes, you can go ahead and wash it out using boiling water and a mixture of vinegar and baking soda.  This will help push it out of your pipes, though it will still be able to coagulate in the main water system.

The best plan is not to let any grease get down the drain if you don't want the sewer coming out of your faucet.

Don't be caught by surprise humidity, and mold can still happen in the cold.

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Now that the temperature is dropping, you may start to wonder what you can do to keep your home healthy and prepared for the colder months. 

While mold like growth may not occur more frequently in the winter compared to other times of the year in a controlled indoor setting, there are problems to look out for in the colder months that can affect the moisture in your home and cause mold-like growth. 

Common winter problems including frozen pipes and improper insulation can lead to more than simply a cold home. 

Mold like growths can be a scary concept to any homeowner, but here are some steps you can take to prevent mold like growth from growing due to the brisk temperatures. 

Ensure that your gutters are clear to help prevent ice from building up and that your dehumidifiers are running in lower levels of your home. 

Check that your attic and any pipes in your crawl spaces are insulated to help prevent pipe bursts or condensation. 

Following these procedures will keep your home properly insulated and free of mold caused by uncontrolled moisture levels. 

If you suspect any mold or mold like growth is happening in your home. We highly suggest you give us a call!

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home or business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one. Just give us a call any time  24/7 we are always here to help.

CLICK TO CONTACT NOW

OR

SERVPRO of Winston Salem North

1105 Fairchild rd,

Winston Salem, NC 27101

Phone: (336) 744-5104

Email: sp9743@yahoo.com

When to Call a professional.

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

"IF I could turn back time" or even Hindsight is 20/20, either way, My DIY is now a HEADACHE.

I moved back into Winston-Salem around 4 years ago, and I had my heart set on a fixer-upper. I was unfazed by the Red, White and Blue kitchen color scheme, and the water damage that had occurred from 90 years' worth of wear and tear. My home was built during the Great 12 Day Ardmore Scandal of 1925.  It didn't bother me in the slightest. In fact, my kitchen still has the large bathtub sized porcelain sink that was installed the year it was built. It's so beautiful, but please, just don't look down.  The flooring has seen better days. Actually, the flooring saw better days 50 years ago. I would soon learn that about every 10-15 years, the new owners or renters of the home would just lay down another layer of flooring. They would install new baseboards. They would paint and call it a day.

It all started with an idea and some YouTube videos. They make it look so easy. Well there is a reason they make it look so easy. It's because they have done it over and over, exactly like the professional flooring installer they are. 

I was determined for this flooring to go, and YouTube told me I could do it. DIY, hear me roar, I could fix anything.  I was prepared and ready, I watched countless videos. I went to Lowes and Home Depot and bought supplies. I was like a kid in a candy store. I rationalized the price of different things and equipment to myself. Of course, I needed that Tile and Vinyl cutter. I most certainly needed that professional heat gun. These items were pricey, but I would use them later, or so I told myself. 

Where it all went wrong.

Day 1. Heat guns and my own hair dryer were brought out. I had to peel that first layer of vinyl back.  Only to see another layer. No big deal, I was told this was common in older homes. Let's do the next layer.  Then the next layer. By the 3rd layer, I was slightly confused but still determined. YouTube was my friend, it wouldn't lie to me. I Googled it again, how many layers of flooring can a house have.  That's when some Red Flags appeared. Asbestos! I wasn't painting, I wasn't doing anything crazy like that, why would I have to be concerned about Asbestos.  Well, Asbestos was one of the best glue additives for floors until it was outlawed in 1973. Asbestos is one of the leading causes of Mesothelioma and COPD.  FULL STOP. No more peeling up flooring. It was a big RED reminder that I was not in fact a professional, and I wasn't prepared for something like that. YouTube didn't warn me at all. I could have exposed myself and my kids to some pretty harmful chemicals, had I just kept going with my 'can do attitude'.  

Slightly started, but unfazed, I decided to continue on. The floor was pretty level and it decided we'd just put the new flooring down. We had removed the nasty first thru 4th layer. I figured we were close to the bottom layer anyways. It was time to prep, that's when we started really looking close to the bottom half of all the drywall. Only to realize, oh wait, this isn't normal drywall. I have Plaster Walls. Behind these walls lurked a nasty secret. Each and every time they got wet, the frame behind it would swell, and then the outward plaster would crack. Each layer of flooring has essentially hidden the bottom of the walls, until I brought it out to show the world. I was done. I was defeated. My DIY is now a Disaster.  Tail firmly planted between my legs. I have turned around, and decided to find someone professional to take over.

Now don't get me wrong. I'm all about DIY. I will still fix my own sink when it's leaky. I installed new lamps and light fixtures. I am determined to build a new deck out back. There are some things that YouTube, Google, and a Good Book can help you accomplish. I learned an expensive lesson, that sometimes professionals are going to be the first step. The flooring expert would have known my home was old , and expected to find asbestos. Plaster walls are a lost art, and finding a Craftsman to fix them will take me awhile. I can rent machines. I can buy the materials. I can just go for it, and hope for the best. The Wonderful Professionals at SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North, have one thing that I cannot put a price on. It's EXPERIENCE. They could have walked right into my home and with a quick inspection, would have seen my water damage. There's a time for DIY, and there's a time to pick up the phone and call for help.

What SERVPRO of Winston Salem North can do for you!

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Our Top 10 Reasons why you should call SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North

1. We Get It
   We understand your situation. You want to keep costs down, repair the damage, and get back to normal. Those are our goals, too.
2. Qualified
   Our repair and restoration team members have the best training in the industry.  Our results will create a measurable difference for you.
3. We Respond To You Immediately
   You can reach us 24/7. When a disaster strikes we respond as quickly as possible. 
4. You’re Part Of Our Team
   We work with you and for you. You are in charge. You receive a complete explanation of the work we will do and why it needs to be done a certain way. Like you, we don’t appreciate surprises.
5. We Use The Latest Technology
   The past few years have seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow us to restore your property to pre loss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.
6. We Practice The Golden Rule Of Restoration
   "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary." We make sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability.
7. For Claim And Other Purposes, Your Loss Is Itemized
   We can give you an itemized loss inventory. You will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items.
8. We’ll Help You Prevent Losses, Not Just Deal With Them
   Our Emergency Readiness Plan
   Our services start with prevention. We’ll come out to your business or home and do a review of how you can protect yourself, your family, your business, and your property from potential losses.  Which we provide Free of Charge.
9. We Handle Any Loss From A Natural Disaster—Big Or Small
   Have multiple locations? No problem. Suffer a small loss from water or fire or wind? We can handle it. Have a massive, complex disaster to recover from? That’s within our scope of services, too.
10. We’re Approved, Certified, And Experienced
    We’re trained to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards in fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our professionals attend SERVPRO continuing education classes. SERVPRO has been in business for more than 50 years.  Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO a leader in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry.

What can water really do?

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

What kind of damage can water really do?

You probably just had an amazing vacation, let's pretend Hawaii because I've always wanted to go there. You just spent two weeks in the fun and sun in Honolulu. Blissfully listening to the water as the waves crash around you. Unbeknownst to you, your house has also been listening to the steady, Drip Drip Drip of a faulty main supply line to the upstairs bathroom toilet. Two weeks of dripping water can cause quite a bit of damage to its surroundings. I visited a home today, where this exact scenario has already taken place.

Quick rundown of damages

1. Bathroom Floor, wet and moldy down to the plywood flooring
2. Bathroom Linen Closet / Extra Storage , Everything inside was COVERED in various molds
3. Drywall, every bit of drywall and baseboards in the bathroom were wet and soggy.
4. Master bedroom, Carpet and flooring all wet and moldy
5. Downstairs Dining room, because of being underneath the upstairs master bathroom, it sustained water and mold damage to the ceiling, wall and flooring.
6. Finished Basement, the water made it through 2 other floors and ruined the ceiling and wall underneath the dining room.
7. All of the Insulation, Drywall, Flooring will need to be removed and replaced from the affected rooms.
8. Mold had sprouted in just about every room, and the HVAC system was just covered in it.

Water is a force of nature

All that damage from  a steady drip of water over a span of 2 weeks. Coming home from paradise, to a disaster like this is pretty heartbreaking. You will not be able to stay in your home, It could be quite hazardous to your health.  The floor and walls could be structurally unsound. This extensive project is not for the faint of heart, and would be way more than a typical weekend DIY project.  Lucky for you, SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North is on call 24/7 and We are the WATER and MOLD Specialist in the area. We will make it "Like it never even happened," so that you can go back to those blissful memories of that wonderful vacation you took.

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one. Just give us a call any time  24/7 we are always here to help.

CLICK TO CONTACT NOW

OR

SERVPRO of Winston Salem North

1105 Fairchild rd,

Winston Salem, NC 27101

Phone: (336) 744-5104

Email: sp9743@yahoo.com

Fax Number: (336) 744-5105

Flooding Can Happen Anytime, Make Sure You Are Protected.

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

At SERVPRO of Winston Salem North, we understand that your business is important to you.  Our restoration professionals work hard to help restore homes and businesses in our local community daily.  We are equipped with the expertise and technology to restore your property from any size disaster.  However, there are steps you can take on your own to prevent damages to your business.

• Start with a thorough risk analysis. Plan for emergencies and obtain insurance coverage that will cover your business in the event of a flood. Consider any damages to property as well.
• Pay attention to weather alerts in your area.
• Ensure that all gutters are inspected and clear of dirt and debris regularly.
• Install barriers to prevent water from getting inside.
• Use flood-resistant materials in any new construction to your business.
• Relocate your files to a safe location, and back them up.

These measures will protect your business in the event of flooding and drastically minimize the damages to your commercial property. 

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one. Just give us a call any time  24/7 we are always here to help.

CLICK TO CONTACT NOW

OR

SERVPRO of Winston Salem North

1105 Fairchild rd,

Winston Salem, NC 27101

Phone: (336) 744-5104

Email: sp9743@yahoo.com

Fax Number: (336) 744-5105

How to protect your home against Ice and Snow

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

The Triad is in for a blast of wintery weather and we’ve got a quick list of some simple things you can do to protect your home.

• Sealing up any Drafty Windows and doors
  The natural gaps that occur around windows and doors can make it difficult to keep your house warm. Using caulk or weather stripping to seal these areas will help. In some of the older historic homes of Ardmore and Washington Park, windows may be constructed of single-pane glass and the doors are constructed without modern day insulation. Investing in updating those areas might be something to look at in the future.

• Protect Water Pipes in Uninsulated Areas

• Keep that attic cool
  Believe it or not, you should not be heating your attic the same way you heat your home. Snow and Ice Dams can ruin your roofing and lead to all sorts of issues. To keep your attic cool, make sure it is properly ventilated and seal any holes or cracks in your ceiling leading to the attic.
• Clean out the gutters and downspouts around your home.

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one. Just give us a call any time  24/7 we are always here to help.

CLICK TO CONTACT NOW

OR

SERVPRO of Winston Salem North

1105 Fairchild rd,

Winston Salem, NC 27101

Phone: (336) 744-5104

Email: sp9743@yahoo.com

Fax Number: (336) 744-5105

Torrential Downpours bring Potential Water Damage

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Winston Salem North provides emergency restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Winston Salem North arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. When minutes matter, this immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 336-744-5104

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one. Just give us a call any time  24/7 we are always here to help.

CLICK TO CONTACT NOW

OR

SERVPRO of Winston Salem North

1105 Fairchild rd,

Winston Salem, NC 27101

Phone: (336) 744-5104

Email: sp9743@yahoo.com

Fax Number: (336) 744-5105

What to do During and After a Flash Flood

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Flash floods occur as a result of heavy rainfall, rapid snow thaw, city drains overflowing or dam/levee failures. They occur quickly and unexpectedly. Flash Floods can effect ANYWHERE at ANYTIME, because it does rain everywhere. Now, most places are more prone to flooding, and it would be wise to learn about your local area. Cities and Urban environments are most common to flash floods, because of the impermeable surfaces, like asphalt and concrete that make up a majority of our surface roads and sidewalks. 

Flash Flood Quick Facts

1. Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
2. Just 6 inches of rapidly moving floodwater can sweep someone off their feet.
3. Just 2 feet of floodwater moving at 9 feet per second (standard speed of flash floods) is enough to sweep vehicles away, move 100 pound rocks, uproot trees or level buildings.

Survive DURING

• Depending on where you are, and the impact and the warning time of flooding, go to the safe location that you previously identified.
• If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
• Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.
• Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don’t Drown!
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning.
• If your vehicle is trapped in rapidly moving water, then stay inside. If water is rising inside the vehicle, then seek refuge on the roof.
• If trapped in a building, then go to its highest level. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising floodwater. Go on the roof only if necessary. Once there, signal for help.

Be Safe AFTER

• Listen to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Avoid driving, except in emergencies.
• Snakes and other animals may be in your house. Wear heavy gloves and boots during clean up.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock.
• Avoid wading in flood water, which can contain dangerous debris and be contaminated. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
• Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows.

What is a Hurricane?

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Hurricanes are Tropical Cyclone storms that form in the Atlantic Ocean and must have sustained winds of 74 mph or greater.  They are spinning with a low pressure center and spawn off serious thunderstorms which generate large amounts of rain, high winds, and storm surges.

Fun fact, if the exact same storm forms in the Pacific Ocean, it is called a Typhoon.

So, when does a Tropical Cyclone become a Hurricane and receive it name from NOAA (The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)? It has everything to do with Wind Speed! Once the cyclone sustains winds at 34 mph, it gets its name, and we start calling it “Tropical Storm XXXX,” and when it hits 74 mph, it is promoted to “Hurricane XXXX.”

The NOAA has 6 sets of names that run from A-W; these names repeat until a name is retired. Typically a name is retired after it is catastrophic in damage or death.

I’m not a meteorologist, and I only know it’s raining when I get outside. So with Hurricane Dorian being the first big storm of the 2019 Hurricane Season, I was sent through a loop with the categories. Sure, I knew the bigger the number the scarier it was, but I was lost on the magnitude of what it all really meant.  The NOAA has a great chart, that helped me quite a bit, but by far The Weather Channel had the most amazing video. It really puts into perspective the damage that can happen from such a powerful storm.

The Weather Channel : Hurricane Damage from Cat 1 to Cat 5

We can talk all day long about the Saffir-Simpson Scale of Hurricane Winds, and I’ve even included the NOAA Chart for you, but that video is simply mind blowing. 

I hope our past few posts on how to prepare for storms and hurricanes is helping this hurricane season. To me, the unknown is scary, so I like to arm myself with as much knowledge as possible from reputable sites. Thank you for your time today, and Stay Safe and Stay Prepared. 

What Kind of Smoke Detector Do I need?

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

There are 3 types of smoke detector alarms on the market today. They are Ionization, Photoelectric and Combination.

An ionization smoke alarm contains a small amount of radioactive material. The radiation passes through an ionization chamber which is an air-filled space between two electrodes and permits a small, constant current between the electrodes. 

When smoke that enters the chamber absorbs the alpha particles, it reduces the ionization and interrupts the current, setting off the alarm. 

This type of alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires.

The Photoelectric smoke alarms operate using a light source.

A light beam collimating system and a photoelectric sensor. When smoke enters the optical chamber and crosses the path of the light beam, some light is scattered by the smoke particles, directing it at the sensor and thus activating the alarm. 

This type of alarm is generally more responsive to fires that begin with a long period of smoldering.

Combination smoke alarms feature both ionization and photoelectric technologies. Ionization smoke alarms respond faster to high energy fires, whereas photoelectric detectors respond better to low energy smoldering fires. The best overall protection is provided by using combination smoke alarms.

Outdoor Fire and Grill Tips

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

It’s GRILLING season. As everyone starts enjoying the weather, people use outdoor grills – and incidents of grill-caused fires go up. Outdoor grilling causes an annual average of 10,200 home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association. That statistic goes up every single year! 

Gas grills cause more home fires than charcoal grills. Gas grills cause more fires mainly because  64% of households own a gas grill, 44% own a charcoal grill and 9% own an electric grill.

Fires can spring up from any type of grill, so we’ve got a helpful tip list for you.

Always Use your Grill Outside

Charcoal and gas grills are designed for outdoor use only.  Not only could a fire spring up in your home, avoid grilling in your garage, on your patio, or under anything that is flammable. 

Maintain your grill

Making sure everything is secure and undamaged when you take your grill out of storage. Check for rust on the structure and make sure all nuts and bolts are tight. Gas grills should be checked for leaks by using the “Soapy Water” technique. 

• How to check for gas leaks on grill

A really good deep cleaning of the grill to start off the season is advised, and after each use make sure to wipe down and remove any build up or grease. 

WATCH your grill

Never ever leave your grill unattended

Be ready to put out the fire

It’s always advisable to have a fire extinguisher nearby, and baking soda on hand for a grease fire. A bucket of sand will also do well to quell any fire.

Get all Fired up over Fire Damage Terminology

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

When a property experiences a fire, a homeowner or commercial property manager will begin to hear a lot of terms they aren't familiar with. Familiarizing yourself with this vocabulary will help facilitate your understanding of what is happening.

Rest assured that if you should ever need our help, our crew will walk you through the process of cleanup and restoration.

Fire Damage:  This is a general term that says a fire was the cause of loss.

Stabilizing the Structure:  This refers to the need to make a structure safe enough for our technicians to begin cleanup and remediation work.  The fire must be completely put out.  It may also include roof tarping, board-up, temporary fencing, and a security guard.

Roof Tarping:  A thick, weatherproof piece of plastic tarping will be attached to the roof to prevent precipitation from entering the building and causing secondary damage.  

Board-Up:  When pieces of board are placed over damaged windows and doors to prevent precipitation from entering the building and also to deter possible break-ins.

Temporary Fencing:  When a temporary fence is installed around the perimeter of the property or highly damaged areas to prevent possible break-ins and keep the general public away from sensitive areas.

Security Guard:  When a structure cannot be immediately stabilized (for example, it’s raining and it’s not safe to tarp the roof), a 24-hour security guard can be hired to protect the property.

Secondary Damage:  A damage that occurred which did not come from the original source.  For example, in a fire damage, the fire is the primary damage.  Secondary damage may come from the water used during firefighting efforts.

Pre-Loss Condition:  Means to put the property back together the way it was before the fire damage. This is the goal of the insurance company when a fire damage occurs.

Smoke Damage:  When smoke particles have embedded themselves in a material, like a wall, clothing, or piece of furniture.  Smoke damage cannot usually be seen, but it can be smelled.  Cleaning and deodorization should take place.

Soot Damage:  When soot has sullied a material.  Soot is produced by the incomplete burning during the fire.  It is acidic and causes damage to materials when it’s not properly or promptly cleaned.  Cleaning and deodorization should take place.

Demolition:  When a material has experienced permanent damage and cannot be cleaned, it is removed and thrown away.

Containment:  When thick plastic is set up in order to isolate the airspace of a room.  This is done so that deodorization techniques can be more effective or to prevent an unaffected area of a property from becoming contaminated.

Air Scrubber:  A machine that cleans the air.  

HEPA Filter: High-Efficiency Particulate Arrestance filter can catch particles as small as 0.3 microns.  This is our filter of choice when using an air scrubber.

Deodorization:  When an item or property is rid of smells caused by the fire damage.

Structural Framing:  The structure of the property, like beams.  If the structure has been damaged, it must be replaced.

Contents:  Anything that is not part of the structure, like furniture.  When affected, contents can either be cleaned on-site or taken back to our cleaning facility.

Textiles:  If you turned the property upside down and everything fell out, the items that fell and did not break are textiles.  These include clothing, shoes, plush animals, etcetera.  When affected, textiles are taken back to our facility for cleaning.

Pack-out / Pack-Back:  When the structure isn’t safe, contents and textiles are moved out of the property and taken to our facilities for cleaning and storage.  They are returned when the property is clean, reconstructed, and safe for inhabitants.  Items may also be delivered to a second location if the owner would like them returned sooner.

Storage:  Items that have been packed-out are stored in our facilities until they can be returned.

HVAC & Duct Work:  Heating, Ventilation, and Air Condition system.  Ducts are the pathways for the cold or warm air to travel around the property.  Many times, the HVAC system needs to be cleaned after a fire damage because smoke has accumulated inside of it.

After A Fire Checklist

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

After a Fire

The following checklist serves as a quick reference and guide for you to follow after a fire strikes.

• Contact your local disaster relief service, such as The Red Cross, if you need temporary housing, food and medicines.
• If you are insured, contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on protecting the property, conducting inventory and contacting fire damage restoration companies.  If you are not insured, try contacting private organizations for aid and assistance.
• Check with the fire department to make sure your residence is safe to enter. Be watchful of any structural damage caused by the fire.
• The fire department should see that utilities are either safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site.  DO NOT attempt to reconnect utilities yourself.
• Conduct an inventory of damaged property and items.  Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made.
• Try to locate valuable documents and records.  Refer to information on contacts and the replacement process inside this brochure.
• Begin saving receipts for any money you spend related to fire loss.  The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and for verifying losses claimed on income tax.
• Notify your mortgage company of the fire.

During a Fire Checklist

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

During a Fire

• Crawl low under any smoke to your exit - heavy smoke and poisonous gases collect first along the ceiling.
• Before opening a door, feel the doorknob and door. If either is hot, or if there is smoke coming around the door, leave the door closed and use your second way out.
• If you open a door, open it slowly. Be ready to shut it quickly if heavy smoke or fire is present.
• If you can’t get to someone needing assistance, leave the home and call 9-1-1 or the fire department. Tell the emergency operator where the person is located.
• If pets are trapped inside your home, tell firefighters right away.
• If you can’t get out, close the door and cover vents and cracks around doors with cloth or tape to keep smoke out.  Call 9-1-1 or your fire department. Say where you are and signal for help at the window with a light-colored cloth or a flashlight.
• If your clothes catch fire, stop, drop, and roll – stop immediately, drop to the ground, and cover your face with your hands.  Roll over and over or back and forth until the fire is out.  If you or someone else cannot stop, drop, and roll, smother the flames with a blanket or towel.  Use cool water to treat the burn immediately for 3 to 5 minutes.  Cover with a clean, dry cloth.  Get medical help right away by calling 9-1-1 or the fire department.

Fire Escape Planning for Older Adults and People with Access or Functional Needs

• Live near an exit. You'll be safest on the ground floor if you live in an apartment building. If you live in a multi-story home, arrange to sleep on the ground floor, and near an exit.
• If you use a walker or wheelchair, check all exits to be sure you get through the doorways.
• Make any necessary accommodations, such as providing exit ramps and widening doorways, to facilitate an emergency escape.
• Speak to your family members, building manager, or neighbors about your fire safety plan and practice it with them.
• Contact your local fire department's non-emergency line and explain your special needs. Ask emergency providers to keep your special needs information on file.
• Keep a phone near your bed and be ready to call 911 or your local emergency number if a fire occurs.

Before a Fire; House Fire 101

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.

Learn About Fires

• Fire is FAST! In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house or for it to be engulfed in flames.
• Fire is HOT! Heat is more threatening than flames. Room temperatures in a fire can be 100 degrees at floor level and rise to 600 degrees at eye level. Inhaling this super-hot air will scorch your lungs and melt clothes to your skin.
• Fire is DARK! Fire starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke and complete darkness.
• Fire is DEADLY! Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames do. Fire produces poisonous gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a three-to-one ratio.

Before a Fire

Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan

In the event of a fire, remember that every second counts, so you and your family must always be prepared. Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly.

Twice each year, practice your home fire escape plan.  Some tips to consider when preparing this plan include:

• Find two ways to get out of each room in the event the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke.
• A secondary route might be a window onto a neighboring roof or a collapsible ladder for escape from upper story windows.
• Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly, and that security bars can be properly opened.
• Practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed.
• Teach children not to hide from firefighters.

Smoke Alarms

A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire.

• Install both ionization AND photoelectric smoke alarms, OR dual sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.
• Test batteries monthly.
• Replace batteries in battery-powered and hard-wired smoke alarms at least once a year (except non-replaceable 10-year lithium batteries).
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement, both inside and outside of sleeping areas.
• Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 8-10 years or according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Never disable a smoke alarm while cooking – it can be a deadly mistake.

Smoke Alarm Safety for People with Access or Functional Needs

• Audible alarms for visually impaired people should pause with a small window of silence between each successive cycle so that they can listen to instructions or voices of others.
• Smoke alarms with a vibrating pad or flashing light are available for the hearing impaired. Contact your local fire department for information about obtaining a flashing or vibrating smoke alarm.
• Smoke alarms with a strobe light outside the home to catch the attention of neighbors, and emergency call systems for summoning help, are also available.

More Fire Safety Tips

• Make digital copies of valuable documents and records like birth certificates.
• Sleep with your door closed.
• Contact your local fire department for information on training on the proper use and maintenance of fire extinguishers.
• Consider installing an automatic fire sprinkler system in your residence.

Fast Home Fire Facts

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Prevent Home Fires

Home fires are preventable! The following are simple steps that each of us can take to prevent a tragedy.

Cooking

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
• Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of 3 feet around the stove.
• Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

Smoking

• Smoke outside and completely stub out butts in an ashtray or a can filled with sand.
• Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away. Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash can.
• Never smoke in a home where oxygen is used, even if it is turned off. Oxygen can be explosive and makes fire burn hotter and faster.
• Be alert - don’t smoke in bed! If you are sleepy, have been drinking, or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy, put your cigarette out first.

Electrical and Appliance Safety

• Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
• Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.

Portable Space Heaters

• Keep combustible objects at least three feet away from portable heating devices.
• Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Check to make the portable heater has a thermostat control mechanism, and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over.
• Only use crystal clear K-1 kerosene in kerosene heaters. Never overfill it. Use the heater in a well-ventilated room.

Fireplaces and Woodstoves

• Inspect and clean woodstove pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions.
• Use a fireplace screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks.
• Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed.

Children

• Take the mystery out of fire play by teaching children that fire is a tool, not a toy.
• Store matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children unattended near operating stoves or burning candles, even for a short time.

More Prevention Tips

• Never use a stove range or oven to heat your home.
• Keep combustible and flammable liquids away from heat sources.
• Portable generators should NEVER be used indoors and should only be refueled outdoors or in well ventilated areas.

What can I keep after a house fire?

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

In 2017, The Fire Department of Winston-Salem responded to over 700 house fires. Statistically that's 2 or more fires a day.  Our Brave Men and Women at the WSFD, are tasked with a grueling and unforgiving job.  Time and again, they are called upon day after day to run head first into burning buildings and cars to save those inside.

Next Monday, October 28th 2019 is National First Responders day, and I hope everyone finds a time to thank our local Winston-Salem First Responders.

Did you know, that after a fire, most items in your home are potentially dangerous? There are 4 things that you need to throw away immediately after a fire.

1. Perishable Food items 
• These items were exposed to extreme temperatures and will spoil quickly. Power is generally cut and those food items in your fridge will have reached unsafe temps for too long.
2. Non Perishable Food Items
• Everything in cupboards and on counters were exposed to fire, soot, and possible fire extinguishing chemicals and are now unsafe to eat. 
3. Cosmetics and Medicines
• After being exposed to high heat, most cosmetics and medicines have melted. Even more importantly, medicines exposed to high heat might have changed chemically and are no longer safe to ingest, or have become obsolete. 
4. Clothing, Bedding, and soft textiles
• If it was burned or singed in any way, properly dispose of them.
• Find a professional cleaning service, and they might be able to salvage and clean some items.

Time to get your Fireplace ready!

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

It’s finally Autumn! My very favorite time in the whole year.  It means the weather is at its peak perfect temperature. I’ve never been a Winter snow bunny, and although I did lifeguard all summer, I’m not a huge fan of cooking outside.  Fall is just the very best! The mornings are cool and crisp, perfect for warm coffee and breakfast. The days are warm enough to enjoy being outside and not overly humid or stuffy. The evenings cool down and are just perfect to enjoy a nice bonfire or maybe a fire in the fireplace. 

Fireplaces can be both wonderful and amazing, but they can get dangerous if not properly maintained.  

How to get your chimney ready for Fall

• Sweep the Chimney
• Yelp: Top 10 Chimney Sweeps in Winston-Salem, NC
• Check for Damages
• Does my Chimney need repairs
• Chimney Safety Institute of America 
• Check your Chimney Cap
•  A chimney cap is a covering for the top of your chimney, checking it is pretty simple.
• Top is in place
• Wire is free of debris
• No holes made by animals or storm debris
• Check your Fire Alarms
• A yearly battery change in all smoke and co2 alarms is a smart habit to start, and it is recommended by the North Carolina State Firefighters Association to replace your fire alarm system every 10 years.
• Safety.com : Best Smoke Detectors for 2019
• If you have a hardwired smoke alarm system, make sure it is connected and active with your home alarm system. 

Quickly and Safely Fire suppression 101

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Did you know there were 4 Different types of fires?

• Class A
• Solid Materials
• wood
• paper
• plastic
• clothing

These are the easiest to put out, and the best way to put them out is using water, ex. a water hose or a bucket full of water. A foam fire extinguisher  would also be a great option on Class A fires. 

• Class B
• Flammable Liquids
• oil
• alcohol
• gasoline
• grease (cooking grease)

NEVER EVER use WATER on a Class B fire. This will cause the flaming material to scatter rather than extinguish it. The best course of action is using a powder like baking soda, or a carbon dioxide extinguisher. A foam fire extinguisher would also work.

• Class C
• Electrical
  
  
• old wiring
• fault equipment
• bad/damaged wiring

First, shut off power to the electrical fire. That could be as easy as shutting off a breaker, or unplugging the appliance. Then use a carbon dioxide or dry powder to extinguish the flames if they remain or if any appeared. 

• Class D (uncommon)
• metal ignition
• mainly in laboratories or industrial type buildings

The best course of action is to use a fire extinguisher if the fire is small enough, otherwise call 911 and evacuate the area. 

There are Different Types of Soot

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

This past week, I got some more field experience in fire and soot damage. I had no idea there were different kinds of soot, and different ways of optimal removal.  Each job is unique and offers its own challenges, but we can broadly classify soot in a few categories. 

• Wet/Oil Soot
  When Plastics, rubber or oil is burned, leaving behind a sticky and smeary residue. It has a distinct electrical burnt smell. Also the most dangerous to inhale and clean up, as it is full of toxins from the plastic, rubber or oil that burned. 
• Dry Soot
  Usually from natural materials, ex. Untreated wood, Plant material, Paper, Lint, cotton/textile clothing. Most of these burn very fast and very hot, quickly escalating across the area, and consuming everything in its path.
• Fuel Oil Soot
  Commonly found in oil furnaces, Caused by improperly maintained systems, or damaged parts. This will cause an internal combustion, damaging the machine and possibly spreading to the area around it.
  
• Protein Soot
  Typically food or kitchen type fires, with long lasting smells, ex. burnt popcorn. This type of soot is very light, but will build up over time, and leave a slightly stick surface on walls and ceilings. Will eventually discolor everything. This requires a great deal of time and effort to clean up, with a long deodorization method used.

We've Always Been the Leading Experts in Cleaning

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Have you heard about our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program? Call Today-336 744 5104

We are recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies nationwide. SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North offers fast, reliable bio hazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners too.

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

SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North technicians are trained to safely and effectively remove bio hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA and state and local health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, we help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices can help with:

• -Blood Borne Pathogens
• -Methamphetamine Labs
• -Crime Scene Residues
• -Vandalism
• -Sewage Backups
• -Black Water Intrusions
• -Mold Mitigation and Remediation

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one. Just give us a call any time  24/7 we are always here to help.

SERVPRO of Winston Salem North

1105 Fairchild Rd

Winston Salem, NC 27105

Phone: (336) 744-5104

Email: sp9743@yahoo.com

Fax Number: (336) 744-5105

3 Common Stains you should know how to clean.

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Have you Heard about our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program? Call us Today 336 744 5104

When we’re talking stain removal TIME is of the essence. The sooner the spill and stain is cleaned up, the better the results. Learn to tackle these hard stains in 3 easy steps. 

• Red Wine Stain.
  We’ve all been there! Red Wine is notorious for staining carpets and fabrics, but if cleaned up quickly, you should have minimal fuss to deal with. 

Step 1. Blot Gently and remove excess wine

*DO NOT SPRINKLE WITH SUGAR OR SALT* - A common “old wives tale” tells you to use salt to soak up the wine, all this does is make a crusty mess and let the wine soak into the carpet. 

Step 2. Use Club Soda to lift more of the wine out of the fabric

Step 3. Blot Gently and Repeat until the stain is gone.

• Tomato Based stain
  Who hasn’t spilled a plate of spaghetti and meatballs? Tomatoes are delicious, but their stains can set and dull carpet quickly.  Make sure to take your time while blotting, you wouldn’t want to press the stain further into the carpet and reach the pad underneath. 

Step 1. Gently Blot the spill, making sure to get all pieces of the meal up. 

Step 2. Spray ethanol alcohol onto the stain.

Step 3. Gently Blot and Repeat until stain is gone.

• Acrylic/Water Based Paint Spill
  Arts and Crafts get a little out of hand? First time crafters are advised to stick to Acrylic and Water based paints, because they are much easier to clean than oil and grease paints. 

Step 1. Gently Blot up excess paint

Step 2. Spray Laundry detergent mixture (8 parts water to 1 part detergent)

Step 3. Flush with cool tap water and blot  until spill/stain is gone. Repeat as many times is necessary.

There really isn’t a quick fix to most spills and stains. Patience and Practice are what is the key to removing and cleaning up. 

CDC Checklist to get ready for the COVID-19 outbreak.

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Our CSC program helps small business stay ahead of the COVID19 problem. Call us to learn more 336 744 5104

As a family, you can plan and make decisions now that will protect you and your family during a COVID-19 outbreak. Creating a household plan can help protect your health and the health of those you care about in the event of an outbreak of COVID-19 in your community. Use this checklist to help you take steps to plan and protect the health of you and your family.

Engineering Controls reduce exposures PLAN AND PREPARE Get up-to-date information about local COVID-19 activity from public health officials Create a household plan of action.

• Consider members of the household that may be at greater risk such as older adults and people with severe chronic illnesses.
• Ask your neighbors what their plan includes.
• Create a list of local organizations you and your household can contact in case you need access to information, healthcare services, support, and resources.
• Create an emergency contact list including family, friends, neighbors, carpool drivers, healthcare providers, teachers, employers, the local public health department, and other community resources.
• Choose a room in your house that can be used to separate sick household members from others.

 Take everyday preventive actions:

• Wash your hands frequently
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces Be prepared if your child’s school or childcare facility is temporarily dismissed or for potential changes at your workplace.

  Administrative Controls refer to employer-dictated work practices TAKE ACTION In case of an outbreak in your community, protect yourself and others:

• Stay home and speak to your healthcare provider if you develop fever, cough, or shortness of breath
• If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately. In adults, emergency warning signs*:
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion or inability to arouse
• Bluish lips or face
• *This list is not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptom that is severe or concerning.
• Keep away from others who are sick
• Limit close contact with others as much as possible (about 6 feet)

 Put your household plan into action

• Continue to practice everyday preventive actions
• If someone in the household is sick, separate them into the prepared room
• If caring for a household member, follow recommended precautions and monitor your own health
• Keep surfaces disinfected
• Avoid sharing personal items
• If you become sick, stay in contact with others by phone or email
• Stay informed about the local outbreak situation
• Notify your work if your schedule needs to change
• Take care of the emotional health of your household members, including yourself

 Take additional precautions for those at highest risk, particularly older adults and those who have severe underlying health conditions.

• Consider staying at home and away from crowds if you or a family member are an older adult or have underlying health issues
• Make sure you have access to several weeks of medications and supplies in case you need to stay home
• When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick and limit close contact with others
• Practice good hand hygiene

 Take the following steps to help protect your children during an outbreak:

• Notify your child’s school if your child becomes sick with COVID-19
• Keep track of school dismissals in your community
• Discourage children and teens from gathering in other public places

We Are Cleanup and Biohazard Experts

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Our CSC program helps small businesses stay ahead of the COVID19 problem. Call us to learn more 336 744 5104

About Coronavirus

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to respond to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a new coronavirus that was first detected in China and has now spread internationally. While the virus is termed coronavirus, the sickness that results after infection has been termed COVID-19.

COVID-19 has now been declared a pandemic, which is a global outbreak of a disease.  

Need Specialized Cleaning Services?

Call Us Today 336-744-5104

Symptoms

Illness from COVID-19 is wide ranging, from mild to severe symptoms and death. According to the CDC, symptom may appear two days to two weeks after exposure:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

It is important to consult your medical provider if you develop any severe or concerning symptoms.

Expert Level Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Winston Salem North is uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

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

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

Need Specialized Cleaning Services?

Call Us Today 336-744-5104

Specialized Products

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

Sources:

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/summary.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fsummary.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fabout%2Fsymptoms.html

How to Clean and Disinfect to help slow the spread of Bacteria and Viruses.

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Our CSC program helps small businesses stay ahead of the COVID19 problem. Call us to learn more 336 744 5104

Cleaning and disinfecting are part of a broad approach to preventing infectious diseases. 

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO of Winston Salem North is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

1. Know the difference between cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing

Cleaning removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces or objects. Cleaning works by using soap (or detergent) and water to physically remove germs from surfaces. This process does not necessarily kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.

Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces or objects. Disinfecting works by using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces or objects. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection.

Sanitizing lowers the number of germs on surfaces or objects to a safe level, as judged by public health standards or requirements. This process works by either cleaning or disinfecting surfaces or objects to lower the risk of spreading infection.

2. Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that are touched often

Typically, this means daily sanitizing surfaces and objects that are touched often, such as desks, countertops, doorknobs, computer keyboards, hands-on learning items, faucet handles, phones, and toys. Some schools may also require daily disinfecting these items. 

Immediately clean surfaces and objects that are visibly soiled. If surfaces or objects are soiled with body fluids or blood, use gloves and other standard precautions to avoid coming into contact with the fluid. Remove the spill, and then clean and disinfect the surface.

Need Biohazard Cleanup Services?

Call Us Today – (336) 744-5104

3. Clean and disinfect correctly

Always follow label directions on cleaning products and disinfectants. Wash surfaces with a general household cleaner to remove germs. Rinse with water, and follow with an EPA-registered disinfectant to kill germs. Read the label to make sure it states that EPA has approved the product for effectiveness against whatever you are trying to clean.

If a surface is not visibly dirty, you can clean it with an EPA-registered product that both cleans (removes germs) and disinfects (kills germs) instead. Be sure to read the label directions carefully, as there may be a separate procedure for using the product as a cleaner or as a disinfectant. Disinfection usually requires the product to remain on the surface for a certain period of time (e.g., letting it stand for 3 to 5 minutes).

Use disinfecting wipes on electronic items that are touched often, such as phones and computers. Pay close attention to the directions for using disinfecting wipes. It may be necessary to use more than one wipe to keep the surface wet for the stated length of contact time. Make sure that the electronics can withstand the use of liquids for cleaning and disinfecting.

4. Use products safely

Pay close attention to hazard warnings and directions on product labels. Cleaning products and disinfectants often call for the use of gloves or eye protection. For example, gloves should always be worn to protect your hands when working with bleach solutions.

Do not mix cleaners and disinfectants unless the labels indicate it is safe to do so. Combining certain products (such as chlorine bleach and ammonia cleaners) can result in serious injury or death.

5. Handle waste properly

Throw disposable items used to clean surfaces and items in the trash immediately after use. Avoid touching used tissues and other waste when emptying waste baskets. Wash your hands with soap and water after emptying waste baskets and touching used tissues and similar waste.

6. Learn more

• CDC Says “Take 3” Actions to Fight the Flu
• Biohazard Cleanup and Restoration
• Biohazard and Sewage Emergency Tips
• Commercial Cleaning and Sanitation Services

What to do after a suicide happens in your home

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one.

Whenever a loss occurs in your home, it is always difficult to deal with. When it is an unexpected death, even more so. You will be overwhelmed, and there is no real way to prepare yourself for this unexpected event.  I hope that you find this list, and that it helps you navigate this uncertain period in your life. 

What to do first

• Call 911 or the police.
  When a suicide occurs, police need to be informed. They will have to treat the place of the suicide as a crime scene. Sadly, suicide or suspected suicide is considered a suspicious death, and must be investigated. You will cause a lot of unnecessary pain and suffering, and trouble with the police to those around you, if you do not report the death as such. 

• For the city of Winston Salem, NC
• Police & Fire (336) 773-7700
• For the city of Pilot Mountain , NC
• Police (336) 368-4725
• Fire (336) 368-4646
• For the city of Mount Airy, NC
• Police (336) 786-3535
• Fire (336) 786-3570

• Call SERVPRO of Winston Salem North .
  After the police have left the scene, the body will still be there, along with any chemicals, dust, or remnants of the investigation the officials may have left. Your home is now not only dirty, but dangerous.
  Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. Our first focus is always safety, since crime or accident scenes may involve bloodborne pathogens, harmful chemicals, and other dangers.
  We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.After the police have finished processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin. Many times, crime and accident scenes have blood and other biohazard contaminants that pose a serious health risk. SERVPRO of Winston Salem North will respond immediately and has the specialized training, protective equipment, and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.
• Arrange for a place to stay.
  SERVPRO of Winston Salem North will work as quickly as possible to clean and restore your home “Like it never even happened.” Depending on the job, this could be very quick or take a few days. The trash and biohazard contaminants will need to be removed, and to prevent the spread of cross contamination, you will be happier and healthier away from the location. 
• If you need help finding a safe location to stay,  The Piedmont Triad Chapter of the American Red Cross is a great place to seek help. 
  1501 Yanceyville Street
  Greensboro, NC 27415
  Phone: 336-333-2111

What to do if a crime happens on your property.

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

With a total of 39 per 1000 residents, we are currently only 8% safer than other US Cities across the nation. It will be either violent 6% or property 33%, both will cause damage to your home or business. 

We don’t want to scare anyone, but I do want you to be prepared for when something happens on your property. We want you to be aware of what to do since it can avoid unnecessary time, money, and headache. You should have a plan in place, and I’ve written this blog to help you. 

First Things First.

A crime occurred. It is a good thing that you are safe. You should know that this will disturb the normal flow of your next coming days, weeks, and sometimes months. We would never wish for that to happen, but you should prepare for it and knowing is the first step for it.

Calm down and Call the Authorities

Call 911 or a non emergency line if there are no medical emergencies

• For the city of Winston Salem, NC
• Police & Fire (336) 773-7700
  
  
• For the city of Pilot Mountain, NC
• Police (336) 368-4725
• Fire (336) 368-4646
  
  
• For the city of Mount Airy, NC
• Police (336) 786-3535
• Fire (336) 786-3570

We know that not everyone can take this situation easily, and some of you will also panic. We are humans, and you do not know truly how you will react until this horrible event occurs.  What I hope you do is act fast and contact the right people to help you. Call the police, and get yourself to a safe well lit area away from the crime scene, but within walking distance, so that the police will be able to speak with you. 

Calming down does not only help you but also assists the authorities in their investigation. If you are calm, then you are better able to assist those in need. You can do this. 

We HIGHLY ADVISE, that you should look for another place to stay temporarily. 

While the investigation goes on, the police will need access to the scene, maybe at hours that you would not be comfortable with. Winston Salem PD and Forsyth County Sheriff's office work tirelessly day and night. 

There could also be other factors, damage to property that causes it to be unsafe (broken glass, bullet holes, blood and other biohazards). These things can not be cleaned up right away, as the detectives will need to search and secure evidence.  Those things can and will affect your health and safety, so we suggest finding somewhere else close by to stay at. If you can not find something, or need assistance, The American Red Cross is always willing to help those in need. 

• The Piedmont Triad Chapter of the American Red Cross
  Phone: 336-333-2111

After the Investigation

You now face a new issue. You can finally return home, and start the process of cleaning up.

Nonetheless, you will see a filthy place depending on the severity of the crime, and length of the investigation.  

Call SERVPRO of Winston Salem North

(336) 744-5104

Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. Our first focus is always safety, since crime or accident scenes may involve bloodborne pathogens, harmful chemicals, and other dangers. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances. Our Motto is “Like it never even happened.” We want to return your home to the happy and healthy place it was in before this crime happened.

Crime statistics by https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/nc/winston-salem/crime#data

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

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

Let us help you get back to business

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

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

Extensive training and specialized products

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

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

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

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

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

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

We never wish these situations on anyone but we are always here when you need us. Call SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North today. 336-744-5104

The Signs of Electrical Issues in Commercial Buildings

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Set up a Free Emergency Ready Profile, to help prevent, and to be prepared for any commercial emergencies.

Some of the most common signs of electrical issues, might be a blink and you miss it type of moment. It's worth visiting a commercial property multiple times in all types of weather to make sure you are buying a reliable building. 

1. Dimming or Blinking Lights
   Make sure to visit your building at night and during high traffic electrical usage hours. That way you can see if all the lights are working and nothing is dimming or blinking out.
2. Old Wiring
   Depending on the age of your building, you may need to invest in an electrical overhaul of your entire building. Wiring, like the rest of us, will eventually deteriorate and become damaged with age. Be it chewed by mice, damaged by nails hammered haphazardly into walls or simple disintegration, a lack of insulation means exposed wires that can lead to sparks and fire.
3. Dead Outlets
   A Major Hazard, dead outlets mean the electrical line has been interrupted in some way, and needs to be addressed immediately. 
4. Patch Jobs and Modifications
   In today's DIY society, more and more people are trying to update and patch their electrical systems to update and run more current. Only a licensed Commercial Electrician should ever work on a commercial building. 
5. Low Amp Wiring
   Older buildings have lower amped wiring, when you try and push a high amp thru low amp wiring, it gets hot. It might even catch fire and spread through the walls before you even know what is going on. It is always best to get an inspection done on older buildings. 

Our Commercial Standard Services

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster at your business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

• 24 HOUR EMERGENCY RESPONSE SERVICES 
• Catastrophic Storm and Wide Area Event Response
• Large Loss and Single Event Response
• WATER DAMAGE SERVICES 
• Water Removal and Dehumidification 
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation 
• Building Stabilization and Climate Control
• FIRE DAMAGE SERVICES
• Smoke and Soot Cleanup
• Pretesting (For Best Cleaning Methods)
• BIO-REMEDIATION & CRIME SCENE SERVICES 
• Vandalism Cleanup
• Unattended Death Cleanup
• FACILITIES CLEANING & RESTORATION
• Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning
• Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds Ceiling, Walls and Hard Floors
• Odor Identification and Deodorization
• Post Construction Cleanup and Selective Demolition
• Reconstruction and Construction Drying
• Specialized Media Blasting
• CONTENTS CLEANING & RESTORATION
• Move Outs and Contents Restoration 
• Electronics and Equipment Cleaning and Restoration
• Art and Document Restoration n Data Recovery
• Contents Claim Inventory Service
• Cargo Recovery (Trucking Industry)
• TOTAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT
• IICRC Certified
• Mobile Command Centers
• Electronic File Documentation
• Online Data Reporting
• Mitigation Performance Validation
• INVOICING
• Detailed Estimates and Digital Pictures
• Expense Reporting

Commercial Plumbing Issues

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster at your business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

We should never forget that between 1-3 % of all water on Earth is Potable water, aka fresh and drinkable water.  Therefore Water Conservation should always be a concern. Not only is it wasting finite resources, but it could cost your business $$$.

Some of the most common plumbing issues in commercial buildings are

• Leaky Faucets
• Most businesses have between 1-10 leaking faucets in their building
• A single leaky faucet leaks 7-10 gallons a day
• The average cost of a single leaky faucet will be between $60 - $200 a year.
• Running Toilets
• Most businesses in NC must have a restroom for employees
• A single running toilet will lose between 20 and 40 gallons a day
• The average cost of a single running toilet will cost between $400 - $1000 a year
• Silent Leaks
• A Silent Leak is a very small leak, almost undetectable inside your plumbing system
• Over time, most of these leaks will cause massive damage to internal building structures
• Where there is water and warmth, there will be Mold Growth, which can be an extensive clean up and maintenance issue.

What Should I ASK before investing in a commercial property

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster at your business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

What is a commercial property? 

• Retail buildings
• Office buildings
• Hotel / Motel buildings
• Industrial buildings
• Apartment buildings
• “Mixed use” buildings, where the property may have a mix, such as retail, office and apartments.

Before Investing in a Commercial Property the best thing to do your research

Common questions to ask

1. Year built? Older buildings might be a great deal upfront, but they can have issues and require more investment down the road.
2. What kind of property are you looking for?
3. Are you looking to use the building for your own business, rent it out, build equity, and/or something else entirely?
4. What kind of location do you need?
5. Do you need to buy or could you lease the property?
6. What's your situation regarding cash, financing, and/or ability to make a down payment?
7. What's your risk tolerance?
8. How much time can you commit to the property?
9. How much work are you willing to put into the property?
10. What skills/knowledge are you bringing to the table?
11. What skills/knowledge will you need to hire experts for or contract out?
12. What kind of property manager might you need (or not)?
13. Are you willing to do the duties of being a landlord?
14. Finally, are you ready/willing to make an investment/purchase of this size?

Most Common Structure Issues in Commercial Properties

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster at your business, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Winston-Salem is in the midst of a Commercial and Residential Building Boom!

I absolutely love every bit of it! The City of Arts and Innovation is growing like never before. It might seem like chaos at first, but it’s a delicate and well thought out expansion, that is driving our city forward and into the future.

With all this new growth, there will be some growing pains, and most of those are going to be from our older and historic buildings. One of the main issues common among these commercial buildings is Structural Foundation Failure. When Investing in a new property it is imperative that you and a hired professional inspect the foundation. They will be able to point out some of the most common structure issues.

Some of the most obvious ones are Exterior Cracks and Fascia Issues. These are out in the open, and there is no hiding them. They most likely come from the building settling into the ground around it. Soil is compacted over time, and when a building is constructed, the soil is dug up and becomes loose. When the foundation is poured, they try their very best to compact and level the soil around and underneath it, but there is no way to make it perfect. Over time it will settle, there is no IF about it. When this starts to happen, you’ll notice doors sticking and windows starting to be harder to open and close. There may be some tiling and flooring that’ll start to warp. You may not notice small interior cracks until they really start to become bigger.

One very large and Scary issue is Plumbing Failure. As a commercial building settles, the plumbing will shift outside and inside the building. Especially with older buildings and older plumbing. It’s not uncommon to still run into Terracotta or Cast Iron pipes. These pipes are aging right along with the building, and as that foundation moves, it becomes unstable and stressed. Commercial buildings are going to have larger pipes than residential homes and you are looking at a larger water damaged area when that pipe finally fails.

BUT, and this is a big caveat. For the Right Location for your growing business, most of the issues stated above are fixable. Location means so much today in the growing business world, that remodeling an older commercial building could be a sound investment to make. Not only are you investing in your future, but you are also investing into Winston-Salem.

It's Time to Take Care of Your Rain Gutters

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Summer is winding down, kids are going back to school, the bugs are finally abating. August also means, at least for us in the triad anyways, hurricane season is really getting started.  We might not be on the coast, but we will still receive quite a bit of rain,  and inclement weather from the spin off of the storms. 

An ounce of prevention

Here is your reminder, just in case you might need one, that the gutters have been just hanging out and working hard all summer, and probably full of bird nests, leaves, twigs, and debris. I found a bunch of Nerf Darts in mine--the joys of having a house full of little boys.  While those gutters might be working now, are they prepared for the onslaught of a hurricane force rainstorm? While the weather is still somewhat tolerable, go ahead and get them cleaned out.  

Gutters are one of your first lines of defense

One of the leading causes of Roof and Water Damage is simply water piling up, pooling, and spilling out of your house’s rain gutters. This is an issue that you probably will not notice until it has become a bigger problem. I know, that I'm not up in my attic daily and wouldn't see the ever growing water stain, until it reaches the ceiling above my bed. That would be if I am lucky, maybe that water took another route and went down the wall and into the insulation. Where there is a water source, there will eventually be mold. It will quickly escalate and become a headache. So don’t forget to clean those RAIN GUTTERS! Go ahead and trim those trees and bushes back while you are up there.  

Keeping it rock solid

Once that roof is taken care of, you should turn your attention to the foundation. The most critical roles gutters play is channeling water around and away from your home.  If there is something blocking the bottom downspouts, then the water will have nowhere to go and pool around your foundation and landscaping.  Home Foundations are what you have built your hopes and dreams upon.  Excessive water around it might cause it to leak, shift, crack, or even sink into the surrounding surface.  A house’s structural integrity depends on a solid foundation.  I’ve got to make sure and mention that you’ll also want to watch where the water is running to; is it heading straight for your sidewalk into your home, or is it settling in your flowerbeds?  Make sure to note and correct any areas that water might be pooling unnecessarily.

What if it’s too late?

While cleaning up those gutters and checking your downspouts, make sure to keep a look out for damage that might have already happened.  Home maintenance is an easy and quick task, but once an issue does arise, it might be with your roof or basement, so calling a professional is always worth it.  I know we are in a DIY climate, but the roof over your head, and the foundation of your home are critical structures designed to keep everything else in your house safe and sound.

Some Winter Weather Q & A

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

There's snow business like snow business.

Here's a fun Q & A about Snow in our Area.

Can it ever be too cold to snow?

It rarely snows when the temperature drops below zero degrees Fahrenheit because the atmosphere is too stable. One of the ingredients for snow is enough lifting of saturated air that snow can develop aloft and fall to reach the surface. 

What is thundersnow?

Although thunderstorms are less common in the winter, sometimes lightning can occur within snowstorms and is called thundersnow. Thundersnow can be found where there is relatively strong instability and abundant moisture above the surface, such as above a warm front. 

How many inches of snow equals one inch of rain?

On average, thirteen inches of snow equals one inch of rain in the US, although this ratio can vary from two inches for sleet to nearly fifty inches for very dry, powdery snow under certain conditions.

What is white lightning?

White lightning is a colloquial term for thunderstorms occurring with snow.

What are the important winter weather notices?

Blizzard Warning: Issued when winds of 35 mph or greater are combined with blowing and drifting snow with visibility of ¼ mile or less. Seek indoor shelter immediately and stay indoors until the severe conditions end.

Winter Storm Warning: Issued when a combination of hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet is imminent or occurring. Winter Storm Warnings are usually issued 12 to 24 hours before the event is expected to begin.

Winter Storm Watch: Issued 12-48 hours in advance of the onset of severe winter conditions. The watch may or may not be upgraded to a winter storm warning, depending on how the weather system moves or how it is developing.

Winter Storm Outlook: Issued prior to a Winter Storm Watch. The Outlook is given when forecasters believe winter storm conditions are possible and are usually issued 3 to 5 days in advance of a winter storm.

Winter Weather Advisories: Issued for accumulations of snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, and sleet which will cause significant inconveniences and, if caution is not exercised, could lead to life-threatening situations.

Wind Chill Warning: Issued when wind chill temperatures are expected to be hazardous to life within several minutes of exposure.

Wind Chill Advisory: Issued for a wind chill situation that could cause significant inconveniences, but do not meet warning criteria. Criteria for issuing Windchill Warnings and Advisories are set locally.

Dense Fog Advisory: Issued when fog will reduce visibility to ¼ mile or less over a widespread area.

Snow Flurries: Light snow falling for a short duration. No accumulation or light dusting is all that is expected.

Snow Showers: Snow falling at varying intensities for brief periods of time. Some accumulation is possible.

Blowing Snow: Wind-driven snow that reduces visibility and causes significant drifting. Blowing snow may be snow that is falling and/or loose snow on the ground picked up by the wind.

Never invite a Tree to a house party, It will never "Leaf"

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

What to do when a tree falls on your home. 

1.  Evacuate the home.
• Whenever a large branch or tree falls on a home it may have compromised the structural integrity of your home
2. Call 911 or a non emergency line if there are no medical emergencies
• For the city of WSNC 
• Police & Fire (336) 773-7700
• For the city of Pilot Mountain
• Police (336) 368-4725
• Fire (336) 368-4646
• For the city of Mount Airy
• Police (336) 786-3535
• Fire (336) 786-3570
3. Contact your insurance company
4. Call SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North
• 1105 Fairchild Road
  Winston Salem, NC 27501
  Phone: (336) 744-5104
  Email: sp9743@yahoo.com

If you don't like the Weather in North Carolina, give it 15 minutes, it'll change.  So, when that bomb cyclone in the Midwest turns into a tornado or microburst rain event in our town, turn to the professionals.  The experienced team of SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North is available to respond 24/7 to any weather related emergencies. Located blocks away from US-52, our team can quickly respond to any part of the county, making us truly FASTER TO THE DISASTER. Whether it's a flood in Sherwood Forest or a fire in City View, our highly trained technicians along with our specialized equipment can handle any job So, when storm damage strikes choose Winston-Salem's locally owned SERVPRO of Winston-Salem North.  When disaster strikes, we’re are Here to Help®

Winter Weather in Winston Salem

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

Types of Winter Precipitation We Can Expect In Winston Salem

• Cold Rain
  If precipitation falls through a large depth of the atmosphere frozen but encounters a relatively deep layer of above freezing air at the surface, then the frozen precipitation may completely melt and have no opportunity to refreeze. Thus, what traveled almost the entire trip to the ground as snow may end up falling as a cold rain instead of anything frozen or freezing
• Snow
  Precipitation begins as snow and if it doesn’t encounter any layers of air that are above freezing before reaching the ground, it will fall to the surface in the form of snow.
• Sleet
  If the snowflakes encounter a shallow layer of warm, above freezing air with below freezing air through the rest of the column, then it will partially melt and refreeze into a sleet pellet before reaching the ground.
• Freezing Rain
  If the snow falls into a deep layer of above freezing air with only a shallow layer of below freezing air located at the surface, (which is often the case with cold air damming,) then the liquid droplets will freeze on contact with any objects (such as trees, power lines, and roads) at the surface that are below freezing.

The next two are possible but historically unlikely, but we are seeing them more and more in Winston Salem.

• Blizzards
  Dangerous winter storms that are a combination of blowing snow and wind resulting in very low visibility. While heavy snowfalls and severe cold often accompany blizzards, they are not required. Sometimes strong winds pick up snow that has already fallen, creating a ground blizzard.
• Ice Storm
  a storm which results in the accumulation of at least .25” of ice on exposed surfaces. They create hazardous driving and walking conditions. Tree branches and powerlines can easily snap under the weight of the ice.

How Does Ice Burst Water Pipes?

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

While we hope you never experience a disaster in your home, we do know we are ready to help you restore it in the event of one

try and say that title 3 times fast! LOL. but seriously, Frozen pipes are worse than a bad joke.

So most people know that when water freezes it expands. It makes a fool of us all at times. Raise your hand if you have left a soda in the freezer, only to return to an explosion of sticky icy sugar everywhere! 

Water Molecules in a natural state are very fluid, but when it reaches it’s freezing point the molecules take on a hexagon structure. This frozen ice block will expand outwards, along the path of least resistance. As it pushes forward, the pressure starts building. While the water in the pipe will flow back towards the main water line in the street, the water trapped between your faucet and the ice block will have nowhere to escape. Once the pressure is too great, somewhere along the line  it will fail. Pipes that are the most at risk are those in uninsulated or unheated spaces( your garage, your attic, poorly insulated outside walls).

How to Prevent Your Pipes from Bursting in Winter

• Keep your garage door closed!
• Open cabinets under the sink and in the bathroom, so that they can be reached by the warm air in your home
• Insulate pipes
• On exceptionally cold nights below freezing leave your taps dripping slightly. This might waste a small amount of water, but the wasted water will cost you less than having to replace busted pipes

If your pipes have burst or you notice them leaking, then it’s best to go ahead and turn off the water at your main line.

Then you’ll want to call a plumber, and then you’ll want to call SERVPRO of Winston Salem North 336 744 5104.