Odor Removal Services for Your Business

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

As the monsoons are wrapping up, many office buildings experience flooding or water leaks from heavy storms. When water damage happens, there are steps to take to address not only the damage but the odors that may arise because of water damage. Professional restoration experts can eliminate such odors from your property after an occurrence of commercial water damage in Phoenix. Here at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, we use a multi-approach method to fight odors after any kind of water damage. A variety of deodorants and odor-fighting techniques can eliminate the odors in no time. Here are a few methods that work the best.

Multiple methods for odor removal

Odors often come from various sources after a water damage incident. It can be challenging to find all the sources and determine a specific method to combat the individual, which is why businesses often struggle with odor well after they have cleaned their property. Whether the odor is from stagnant water or mold growth, SERVPRO knows it is best to use multiple methods that use various deodorants to get a better result. Our IICRC-certified SERVPRO technicians use a combination of several types of deodorants that can combat the most common smells after a commercial water damage event.

Deodorizing agents to combat odors

A single type of deodorizing agent is not always sufficient to address odors from various sources. Different odors need different deodorants. Masking agents in time-release beads are also used to cover up unpleasant odors with a pleasant-smelling scent. Professionals use these agents to combat odors as well. There are some odors that only appear to remain after cleaning as occupants have become accustomed to the unpleasant smell; masking agents help address that issue. Pairing agents combine with the odor-causing particles in the air and neutralize them. Once these agents combine with the particles in the air, they cause them to fall to the ground, which can then be cleaned. These agents are often used in Ultra Low Volume foggers and wet foggers. Electrically generated deodorizing agents such as ozone gas are used after a move-out where odors linger. The Ozone is a reactive molecule that can combine with the odor-causing particle and neutralize it. The technicians use this method if the odors have penetrated deeply in the surfaces.

Let the odor removal experts at SERVPRO help

A combination of all these techniques and agents is essential to eliminate the odors from your commercial property after water damage. If you struggle with odors after experiencing water damage or flooding in your office building, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix today at (602) 386-4268 to discuss your restoration needs with one of our professionals.

What Causes Mold Growth in Your Home?

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Mold is always an unpleasant situation to have in your home. Oftentimes the homeowner wonders feel they were not keeping their home as clean as they should or not maintaining it properly. However, mold growth can happen for many reasons, a few of which end up not being the homeowner’s fault considering mold spores are present everywhere, and it takes very little to promote growth.

Why do homes get mold?

Mold damage in homes is not always an extraordinary occurrence. Several situations cause mold to grow in your home, and while they may not always lead to a mold growth problem, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has seen enough situations over the years to know just how vulnerable most residences in the Phoenix area are, especially after heavy monsoon seasons. Mold grows best in dark, humid environments, which can occur frequently after a storm. The truth is that spores might be waiting for a chance to grow anywhere in your home if any of these events happen.

You have had a leak in your home

Leaking pipes, faucets, and other plumbing fixtures in your Phoenix home could contribute to mold growth. Spores grow quickly around any water source they can find, even if the volume of water is negligible. If moisture remains consistent in the affected area, the types of mold spores found in Arizona can start to grow. If you have discovered any leaks in your home or suspect that they may exist, there is a good chance that your home is hiding a mold infestation. Even if the leak is long gone, if there is residual water damage, chances are there is mold growth as well that needs to be handled.

A wet monsoon season

When monsoon storms come through the Valley, they create an ideal opportunity for mold to grow in your home. Any leaks in your roof or siding could contribute to an infestation somewhere in your home, oftentimes undetected. SERVPRO technicians can use advanced moisture detection tools to detect unusual levels of moisture anywhere in your home. While mold growth may go unseen, a musty odor is a sure sign that mold growth is present and needs to be addressed.

Flooding in your home

Many of the damage-causing floods in homes start with problems as mundane as a malfunctioning dishwasher or an overflowing bathtub. Any time a large part of your home's flooring becomes covered in water, it should be treated as a potential precursor to a mold problem because of the substantial amount of water that may have seeped into flooring and drywall.

What to do if you have mold

No matter if your mold issue is a result of leaks, floods, or storms, it is important to get the issue addressed immediately. If you experience mold, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at 602-386-4268 to handle the mold immediately. Do not try to clean up mold on your own; leave it to the remediation experts to get taken care of.

After a House Fire, You’ll Likely Experience Water Damage Too

8/22/2022 (Permalink)

House fires are devastating. Firefighters know it’s important to extinguish the flames as quickly as possible after a house fire. Here is what you should expect afterward, including the unexpected water damage that happens after a fire.

Putting out the flames can cause water damage

When a fire happens, it’s important to get the flames out quickly. Unfortunately, extinguishing flames can bring damage on its own. Firefighters whose sole purpose is to battle flames will do whatever it takes to stop the fire, which often includes an excessive amount of water. Though the fire gets extinguished, water damage is a real issue to be dealt with. Soaked furniture, carpeting, and other belongings need professional attention. Along with soot and possible chemicals left behind by firefighters, water can be a huge problem. It’s important to work with professionals who understand not only fire damage remediation but water damage remediation to help you recover from the water left behind. Not only is water used, but likely flame extinguishing chemicals as well, all leaving behind dampness that can quickly escalate if not handled quickly.

Not addressing water can lead to other issues

Homeowners may feel that water is the least of their worries but unfortunately, if the water left behind is not addressed properly and thoroughly, you may end up with mold and odor issues in addition to damaged property. It can also lead to very unpleasant odors that are challenging to get rid of. SERVPRO professionals use special equipment to extract water thoroughly and then address any property damaged by water. We’ll use a variety of equipment available and follow up with odor removal approaches to ensure that not only the source of odor is gone, but that it won’t return again due to water or moisture left behind.

Be prepared should a fire break out

No one wants to contemplate the possibility of a fire, let alone the damage caused by the water and chemicals used to extinguish the flames, but you need to have a plan on what to do if a fire breaks out and how to handle the aftermath. In addition to all that’s mentioned above, think about what you’ll need to do once the fire is extinguished and you’re facing water damage in addition to fire damage. It’s important to contact a water remediation company to assist with the damage left behind from extinguishing smoke and flames. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has a staff of trained professionals to assist you in this time of need. Call us if you experience any kind of disaster at 602-386-4268. We’re available 24/7 to help you recover.

Don’t Delay in Getting Remediation Help for Mold Damage

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

You spot mold in your home after a recent storm or water leak: now what? Nobody wants to deal with mold problems, but once you see mold in your house, you need to take care of it, immediately. Keep in mind, before you can do anything yourself, you should inspect the mold. Mold damage in older Phoenix homes can be especially tricky! Here are a few tips to counter mold damages and are some tips before a mold remediation team gets on site!

Should you handle mold growth yourself?

There are various kinds of molds, from white mold to black mold, they can bring any kind of bacteria into your house, which is why you need to get it inspected and see what you’re dealing with. If the mold is minor, you may be tempted to clean it up yourself. However, this is a lengthy process that requires sealing up the whole area of your home, special gear, and deep cleaning. As a result, you should consider contacting a professional mold remediation team, like SERVPRO to handle your mold remediation needs!

After cleanup, there’s more work to do

Once all the cleaning is done, look for the original cause of the mold and repair it. Remember, most molds grow in humid, moist places, so keep an eye for any water leaks, broken pipes, or places with unwanted condensation. Mold damage is not uncommon in even the most well-kept home. Mold damage in homes can be most seen in places with elevated levels of condensation, like the bathroom and kitchen. Keep in mind that mold spores are everywhere; you can never completely get rid of mold spores in your home. You can, however, make sure you’ve addressed the cause of mold growth and had any mold professionally remediated to ensure the mold growth is gone, including residual odors.

Call the remediation specialists

If you have mold growth in your home, call in the professionals from SERVPRO to handle all of your mold remediation needs. We can provide free inspections, estimates, and work with your insurance providers to complete the work! Mold cleanup and mold damage is something that should be handled by professionals, and we are here to help 24/7! Call us at 602-386-4268 for help.

Dealing with Smoke Odors After a House Fire

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

Home fires leave behind destruction that has to be dealt with, often on various levels. One of the most challenging results of fire damage is the odor that stays stubbornly behind, which few people plan to deal with after a house fire. Eliminating these odors requires knowledge and specific deodorization equipment. That’s where SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help! Learn how we can assist with odor removal after you experienced a house fire.

Smoke odor removal

After a fire in your home, SERVPRO specialists can help you throughout the fire restoration process, including assistance with odor removal. With many years of experience in fire remediation, we understand how trying it can be when this type of tragedy occurs and how difficult it can be to recover and get back to normal. Our technicians can restore your home to pre-fire condition quickly and efficiently to make it livable again after a house fire, especially when dealing with unexpected smoky odor aftermath. Effective fire damage deodorization requires using different techniques. SERVPRO fire remediation specialists can usually get rid of the unpleasant smells without needing additional steps.

When it comes to deodorization, the first step is removing the source causing the odor. The second step is getting rid of any residues in the area. After cleaning, SERVPRO technicians follow up by air “scrubbing” or ventilating to get rid of odor molecules from the house to get rid of the odors.

Containing odors from a fire

Chemical containment is important in fire damage deodorization to prevent odor molecules from remaining in the air after a house fire. This requires decontaminating materials with a chemical deodorizer, which forms a barrier that keeps the odor molecules from escaping from the source material, thus reducing the smell. Our experienced technicians then neutralize any odor particles that may have dissipated into the air by applying deodorant products into the surrounding air of the affected area. These products neutralize the overpowering smells. This process is a part of SERVPRO’s tried and true fire remediation process, so we’re confident we can successfully address odor issues in your home after a blaze and make your home enjoyable to live in once again.

Get rid of odors fast

House fires are traumatizing. Knowing who to reach out to for fire remediation efforts, including unplanned odor removal, can make the experience less painful, and recovery faster. We can help you eliminate odors that are a result of a fire in your home. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can come in and begin the fire restoration process immediately so don’t hesitate to call; we’re available 24/7 to help. To get help after a house fire, call us at (602) 386-4268.

Homeowners Forget About Fire Danger During Monsoon Storms

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

When monsoon season rolls around, homeowners are quick to prepare for high winds and torrential rains, possibly even damaging dust storms, but few think about the fire danger that comes with the monsoon season. Lightning is very prevalent during monsoons and lightning strikes are not uncommon. Learn more about the threat of fire damage during monsoon season.

Monsoons bring lightning and the threat of fire

Lightning is the most underrated weather hazard during monsoons. Lightning makes every single thunderstorm a potential killer, whether the storm produces one single bolt or ten thousand bolts. A roof can catch on fire after a single strike, or a nearby tree or pole can be struck and come toppling down on a home. Unlike other weather hazards, lightning can also be unpredictable.

Staying protected during a lightning storm

There are actions you can take to keep yourself and your home protected:

• Watch for signs of an approaching thunderstorm and listen to local news when a storm is near
• Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent.
• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to a storm to be struck by lightning
• Get inside a house, large shelter, or an all-metal vehicle during a lightning storm.
• If safe shelter is not available, find a low spot away from trees, fences, and poles
• If boating or swimming, get out of boats and away from the water, get to land, and find shelter immediately
• Only use the telephone in an emergency (cell phones are safe to use).
• Remain clear of tall, isolated trees and telephone poles.
• Stay away from wire fences, clotheslines, or metal pipes and rails.
• Make sure trees near your home are adequately trimmed so any struck branch won’t cause damage to your home or roof
• Don’t use electronics of any kind during a storm
• Make sure electronics are plugged into surge protectors

What to do if you experience fire damage from monsoon lighting

Even with the best protection and precautions, your home may still experience fire damage from a lightning strike, whether it be to your home, roof, or nearby tree or pole. If you experience fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix after the flames are extinguished. Our fire remediation specialists know how to address fire damage and can provide the remediation you need to recover from the damage.

Contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix 24/7 at 602-386-4268 to get the help you need.

Businesses Can Benefit from Commercial Cleaning Services

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

Savvy business owners have been reaching out to SERVPRO to help with their disinfecting and sanitation needs during this ongoing challenging time where it’s difficult to schedule services in a timely fashion due to labor shortages. While we’ve been on-site, they’ve also discovered all the other commercial cleaning services that SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can provide to help them attract customers to their business once again.

Making good first impressions with commercial cleaning

When operating a business of any size, first impressions are everything, especially with everyone’s heightened cleanliness expectations. What does a customer see when they first walk into your business? What do they see or smell when they enter the location for the first time? It is especially important to make sure your business facility is clean and looks is absolute best to customers and other visitors that walk on to the property. By having a facility that is thoroughly cleaned, you are well on your way to developing a customer that will come back time after time, and possibly refer their friends and family to frequent your business. Business owners and managers know the value of repeat customers and how important it is to nurture those relationships. While customer service and quality of services most certainly impact whether a customer will become a dedicated return customer or not, impressions of cleanliness also make a big difference. With many businesses closed or at reduced capacity for so long, attracting and maintaining foot traffic is critical. Commercial cleaning can help make it possible by making the business more attractive and welcoming.

Commercial cleaning services available to businesses

There are a wide variety of materials and surfaces in your business that SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can clean and deodorize as part of our commercial cleaning services. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix offers cleaning services ranging from cleaning hoods in restaurants to removing biohazard contaminants to duct cleaning. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business if it has been closed for an extended period of time, or simply elevate the level of cleanliness with a thorough cleaning. Here’s a list of some of the items we can clean:

• Carpets
• Upholstery
• Area Rugs
• Drapes
• Tile
• HVAC and Duct Cleaning

Use SERVPRO for your commercial cleaning needs

If your business needs some freshening up or a thorough cleaning, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has the training and tools to get your business looking and smelling its absolute best! Whether you need a one-time deep clean or ongoing commercial cleaning, contact us at 602-386-4268 to get the job done.

Eliminating Ash and Soot After a Fire in Your Home

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

House fires can be incredibly destructive beyond just the flames. Cleaning ash and soot residues can be difficult to address yet become essential to get a home back to normal. Smoke created by a fire fills the house and leaves behind a residue that’s challenging to clean, to say the least. Soot deposits discolor and ruin furnishings, decor, and building materials inside your house, which is why it’s important to address ash and soot cleanup after a home fire professionally.

Replacing or cleaning damaged items

Replacing materials inside your home can get expensive, so cleaning them instead can save you money, time, and headache. SERVPRO's fire damage technicians use numerous approaches to cleaning during the mitigation process, depending on what is damaged by soot or ash. The purpose of cleaning smoke-related damage is to restore the materials to the conditions they were before the fire. Depending on the items, some cleaning methods work better in certain situations than others. The type of cleaning used depends on the kind of materials that got burned and the type of materials soot damaged. That’s why professional cleaning is essential versus trying to do it yourself.

The basics of cleaning soot-damaged items

There are four fundamental elements required to deal with residues so that they get removed effectively and thoroughly. The first element of cleaning is temperature. Heat increases the speed of chemical reactions in products. SERVPRO's restoration technicians always select the ideal temperature based on which chemical gets used and the material being cleaned. The next element is agitation. When soot-damaged or ash-covered materials get agitated, the residues get dislodged, and chemicals get distributed across the surface. When cleaning smoke-damaged surfaces, we agitate the surface with towels, brushes, air and water pressure, and sonic vibrations from ultrasonic machines. Soot residues also get cleaned through chemical action. Most chemicals are designed to cause a reaction with the soot, therefore assisting in its removal. The reactions that take place include dissolving, emulsifying, changing pH, oxidizing, and bleaching. The last element of cleaning is time. Most chemicals need time to appropriately react to the soot and work efficiently. The amount of time needed varies based on the product, type of residue, and the kind of surface affected by soot. Patience is essential here to get the job done right!

Call the professionals if you experience a house fire

In most scenarios, soot and ash get cleaned the best by using a variety of elements and approaches to cleaning. For professional help with cleaning residues call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 any time of the day. Our technicians will endeavor to restore all your possessions to pre-fire conditions to help you recover from the disaster of a house fire.

Crime Scene Cleanup for Phoenix Businesses

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Crime scene cleanup for businesses in Phoenix can be a tough task to handle alone. With a multitude of laws, regulations, and work to be done, business owners and managers have their hands full if they want to reverse any damage done without leaving permanent visual reminders of the events that could disrupt workflow or even keep a business closed indefinitely. SERVPRO offers the expertise and equipment necessary to handle clime scene cleanups while working around regulations and avoiding further damage to the building and any equipment inside.

Biohazard cleanup after a crime

One of the most important reasons to hire a specialist crime scene cleanup company for your business is to ensure that biohazards such as blood and bodily fluids are cleaned up without any risk to your employees or customers. SERVPRO technicians possess the safety equipment necessary to handle these materials with minimal risk as we follow IICRC best practices. You should never attempt to clean up these fluids yourself; always leave this type of cleanup to the professionals!

Damage restoration following a crime

Broken glass, damaged walls, and other damage all need an experienced professional to return it back to the state they were in before the crime occurred. We work with most of the materials present in local business buildings on a day-to-day basis and know the specialized treatments and repair techniques necessary to reverse damages for as little cost as possible. Our equipment and disinfecting agents are highly rated for effective cleanup and sanitation. Our pros will assess the extent of the damage and make recommendations for repair or removal as appropriate.

Working with insurance company claims

Insurance companies work with and may even recommend SERVPRO to their commercial clients because we deliver exceptional quality care with minimal risk to both the contents of your business, its equipment, and other capital investments and the structure itself. We can work with your insurance provider and help you with many of the aspects of filing a claim after a crime as far as documenting our services.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix provides fast, certified, and professional damage cleanup and restoration services for businesses in the area. Call us at (602) 386-4268 for our help with any situation at your place of business.

Rain Isn’t the Only Damaging Element of Arizona Monsoons

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Monsoons have officially arrived in Arizona! Whether you love the dramatic rainfall that storms bring, or dread the weather change this time of year, one thing is for sure: monsoons can bring damage to both homes and businesses. While most assume the torrential rain is the main threat of monsoons, the season is actually a trifecta of potential dangers: water, wind, and fire.

What are monsoons in Arizona?

From light sprinkles to high winds to dust storms to lightening, monsoons can bring the whole package Typically, the monsoon season in Arizona lasts between the months of June and September, bringing us our cool relief in the hot summer months. The long-term average rainfall in the state is 5.37 inches. As the monsoon arrives an increased threat of lightning comes with it. Lightning, accompanied by little rainfall, start many fires each year in homes, buildings, and outdoor areas. According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency) lightning causes over 22,000 fires each year. The Insurance Information Institute states that lightning strikes cost roughly $900 million in homeowner’s insurance losses each year. That is JUST lightning strikes! Add in damage from strong winds and water from torrential rains and you can imagine the damage experienced during monsoon season.

How to protect your home from storm damage

There are some steps you can take to protect your home from water, wind, and lightning strikes:

• Use a home lightning protection system. This can include lightning rods, main conductors, grounds, bonds, or surge protectors.
• Unplug electronics and appliances.
• Install surge protectors/surge suppressors.
• Be sure to check your insurance policy to make sure you have coverage for damage caused by lightning.
• Have your roof checked prior to monsoon season to ensure there are no loose tiles that can be impacted by wind or weak areas that can let rain in
• Bring lawn furniture and other items inside that could be picked up by heavy winds and strike the house
• Check that the seals on your doors and windows are moisture-proof
• Be sure your exterior landscaping pitches away from the house
• Clear rain gutters

What to do if your home experiences storm-related damage

After any storm damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first. Once the pros at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix show up, you’re in good hands! We offer a range of effective restorative tactics, including debris removal and emergency board-up or tarping by our contracting division. Our licensed contractors can also oversee the reconstruction and renovation of your property once storm mitigation is complete. Our technicians focus on every damaging effect throughout your property from air quality concerns to soot and smoke residue removal to moisture removal and preventing mold growth. We offer comprehensive restoration from the initial inspection through the final walkthrough to make the process more efficient and cost-effective for our customers.

We hope that you are never faced with storm damage, but if you are, remember that SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is available 24/7 to help. Our IICRC Certified technicians have years of experience in the field and the training to handle any storm damage situation.  Call us if you experience a lightning strike, wind damage, or water damage from a monsoon storm that causes damage to your home. Call us at 602-386-4268 to help you recover sooner!

Protecting Your Property from Flames This Fire Season

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Valley firefighters are preparing for an active brush fire season this year after all the heavy winter rain we had. Even if your home is in the “suburbs” chances are there are still areas around your neighborhood and home with shrubbery and other potentially flammable items. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix all too often sees the devastation of losing a home or place of business to fire damage when they could have been prevented. We’ve come up a few ways you can protect your property from becoming a disaster.

Look at your surroundings well before fire season starts

Washes and alleyways all around the Valley are seeing a lot more over-growth this year. When the sweltering heat dries all those shrubs up, these washes and alleyways now act as corridors that can carry a fire blocks away, leaving your Phoenix home or business property at risk. Dead pine needles, leaves, and other dead plants serve as kindling, like when you're attempting to start a fire. Eliminating them is the first thing you'll want to do. It is recommended that you create at least a five-foot barrier around the property that is free of any fire dangers. Use rocks instead of grass or keep your grass short and healthy.

Store firewood away from your home

Keep firewood and other lumber away from the building structure. It's best to keep the wood in a fire-resistant box or at least cover it with a tarp, keeping it a safe distance from the property at all times. While it might seem unlikely that it could catch fire, errant cigarette ash, firework or other fire source is all it takes for firewood to ignite, so it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Keep your gutters clean

When rain gutters aren't cleaned regularly, they fill up with dead leaves and pine needles which will easily spark especially during the sweltering summer days. Depending on how open they are, creatures can build a nest, which can be highly flammable, in these gutters. Cleaning them regularly keeps them clean of any flammable debris, and prevents the need for fire remediation down the road!

Check all smoke detectors regularly

Be sure to check on the batteries and test the smoke detectors regularly. New smoke detectors on the market can even alert you on your phone to any fire dangers putting your property at risk so that you can take necessary precautions. Too often, firefighters tell of homes that were ablaze without warning because smoke detectors weren’t functioning. Stay safe and test those detectors!

While there’s no guarantee that your home won’t experience a fire disaster at some point, following these simple tips can help protect your home and keep you safe. If you do experience fire damage of any kind, reach out to SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at 602-386-4268 to get the help you need, 24/7.

Storm Safety for Your Phoenix Business

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Monsoons will be here before you know it, and it’s a good time to brush up on some storm safety tips for your business that you can use so you’re not caught off guard and can protect your building from damage and what to do if you need storm damage assistance.

Monsoons in Arizona and the damage they cause

Monsoons can be quite dramatic, but severe thunderstorms produce dangerously heavy winds and lightning strikes, not to mention flooding; all of which can impact your office building. Sometimes, flash flooding, power outages, and property damage can result from severe weather. Take heed of these suggestions to protect your office building.

Prepare during severe storm watches

When monsoon season is underway, residents usually get a bit of a heads up when a storm is approaching, as well as how damaging it can potentially be. When a watch is issued, it means that conditions are just right for severe storms to develop. Tune into your radio or TV frequently for up-to-date information, and use this time to prepare your office building for a storm:

• Review the community's emergency warning system and protocols so you know what to watch for.
• At your place of work, reiterate company policy for severe weather safety to all employees.
• Secure loose equipment or furnishings around your building.
• Reschedule outdoor events for better weather; don’t risk having an event even if a storm appears mild as they can build momentum easily and grow.

Once a warning is in effect, your preparations to your office building will improve safety throughout your business and hopefully avoid or minimize damage.

Stay indoors until the storm passes

Most monsoon storms move on within an hour or so or become less dangerous after the initial impact. Regardless of how long the storm takes to pass or subside, plan to stay put until the high winds, lightning, and heavy rain or hail are over. It may be tempting to tell employees to go home to shelter, but it’s best for everyone to stay put until the bulk of the storm has passed. While waiting for the danger to pass, take appropriate safety precautions:

• Shutter doors and windows and stay away from windows, glass doors, and skylights in your office building.
• Avoid standing near electrical equipment, including electrical telephones, and don’t work on any electronics during a storm.
• Move away from plumbing systems that may burst.
• Unplug any electronics as possible until storm passes, especially during lighting storms

Listen to weather updates

Experts recommend waiting about 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder before leaving the safety of your business to make your way home. While it may seem like a mild monsoon storm, lightning and other situations caused by the storm can do you harm, so don’t take unnecessary chances. Even once the storm has passed, there’s the potential for flooding, debris in roadways, downed electrical lines and more. Stay tuned to local news for updates on hazardous conditions.

Contact SERVPRO if you experience storm damage

Every year during monsoons, there are fallen trees on buildings, roofs collapsing, and flooding. It’s a good idea to have a reputable storm remediation company’s information on hand so you can get help recovering quickly for your business. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix specializes in storm damage cleanup and restoration. Available 24/7, we can help you get your home or office back to normal. Contact us at (602) 386-4268 to get the help you need.

SERVPRO Protects Your Family and Property During a Biohazard Cleanup

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

When you hear the term “biohazard” some people envision some sort of toxic environmental situation that they’ll likely never face. However, “biohazard cleanup” may include the removal of blood or other bodily functions, as well as hoarding situations or the presence of drug substances. Some kinds of cleanup are just best left to professionals. Because of the nature of the substances deposited and the training needed to eliminate them safely, the aftermath of hoarding, a health crisis, or criminal activity in your home requires professional attention. Our staff is well trained, and our equipment is designed to help you through this catastrophe.

Crime scene cleanup
 

If the unimaginable happens in your home, our crime scene cleanup experts can handle it. Whether a traumatic injury or death results in the need for blood or other bodily fluid removal or vandalism or drug trafficking activity surprises you when you return after a time away, we are ready to restore your home and your peace of mind. The pathogens likely present when blood and other fluids saturate your carpets, walls, furnishings, and other surfaces and possession must be removed following applicable safety and health codes. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and local health inspection agencies mandate the procedures employed. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix ensures that all our employees responding to your home are fully certified and experienced in this specialized restoration area.

Drug situations in your home
 

It’s not uncommon for drug activity to happen when homes are left unoccupied for a length of time. If you come back to your home after a prolonged absence and find drug activity has occurred, act fast and with caution. When potent drugs such as synthetic narcotics and opioids or methamphetamines are involved at a crime scene, even casual contact may unwanted circumstances. Do not expose yourself or your family to these risks. Let our SERVPRO experts clear your home of these and other dangerous substances.

Police activity can cause a biohazard situation
 

Police enforcement efforts during an event may fill your home with irritants such as tear gas and pepper spray. Evidence-gathering materials can stain and damage surfaces, fixtures, and furnishings. SERVPRO crews use efficient cleaning products and methods to eradicate these residues. Deodorization strategies including advancements such as thermal or ULV foggers and hydroxyl or other oxygenation generators are sometimes necessary to return your home to its pre-crime condition.

Help with hoarding and other biohazardous situations
 

Family members sometimes face an uncomfortable situation if a loved one has become a hoarder. Besides being overly messy, hoarding can lead to more toxic situations when foods and other substances rot or deteriorate over time. Food and other products can lead to a biohazard situation that again requires the professional intervention of a hoarding cleanup professional. 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
• Meth lab cleanup

SERVPRO is here to help

You deserve to be treated with respect and compassion in the aftermath of a crime committed in your home. SERVPRO employees receive sensitivity training as part of their coursework in crime scene restoration. We pledge to be there for you and your family on all levels as we help during this challenging time. Contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix for your post-crime scene cleanup needs. We are available 24/7 at (602) 386-4268.

Getting Your Home Ready for Storm Season

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

In theory, we still have a few months before monsoon season is here, but now is the time to prepare your home. Upcoming monsoon storms will leave behind plenty of local storm damages so preparing your home beforehand makes sense. We’ve listed a few activities you can do to protect your property from the monsoon damages.

Prepare Trees for Storm Season

One of the most common hazards that occurs during a monsoon storm is the uprooting of trees. Not only that, but heavy branches being also ripped off tossed about can cause some damage too. The microbursts tend to uproot trees of any size and carry outside furniture and play equipment down the street or a neighbor’s backyard if you end up finding it at all! Not only can this cause damages to your property, but it can also cause some danger if nearby power lines are affected. Be sure that all your smaller or newly planted trees are double staked; if you’re not sure how to do that, ask a landscaper to assist you in securing those trees. You want them loose enough to give enough room for the tree to bend with the gusty winds, but secure enough to prevent them from being ripped out of the ground or broken off by powerful winds. You should also trim the more mature trees to eliminate the branches that are thinner so that the limbs will have less weight. A professional tree trimming company will know how to do that safely without damaging the tree.

Check Windows and Doors for Sealing

Now is the time to go through your home and inspect all the windows and doors for any spaces or gaps where water and dirt can seep through. If you see any space within the frames where the seal is, it’s time to replace that weather stripping, or get a professional to come in and do it for you. While a tiny gap might be tempting to ignore, even the smallest amount of water will come in through that opening and cause mold which can spread around and will require professional mold remediation and removal. Replacing the weatherstripping will also prevent the dust from getting inside and settling on all the furniture, floors, and carpet after a heavy windstorm.

Check Out Your Roof

Get up on your roof (or have a professional do it for you) and look for any loose shingles or tiles before the storm season begins. This should be done regularly throughout the monsoon season. Strong storm winds often displace shingles and tiles which leave the property vulnerable to the storm elements that could cause even more damages. Missing tiles are more than a cosmetic issue; they protect your roof so be sure to be diligent here.

Check Drainage Around Your Home

In the past, have you ever noticed any issues with the drainage patterns which cause all the water to collect into pools? If you have, get that professionally addressed before the storms come. Protecting your investment from any potential water damages is obviously in your best interest. It’s important that water drains away from your home, not puddle up against it.

Make Room in the Garage Before the Monsoon

Unsecured items outside of your property leave everyone at risk. The monsoon winds can be extremely powerful, capable of picking up objects from the ground, and carrying them somewhere else. Just make sure to clear away enough space in your garage to put bicycles and whatever else you may have unsecured on your property, like patio furniture or pool toys. If microbursts can uproot large trees, knock down brick walls, and carry trampolines down the street then they can easily swipe your furniture and other items, potentially causing even more local storm damage.

We're here to help with storm damage

Regardless of how careful you are, life still happens, and there will still be some flooding and storm damages each year. That is why SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is here if it happens to your home. Available 24/7/365 for any emergency disaster! Contact us at 602-386-4268. Our technicians are highly skilled, and well-trained and are here to help if you experience any local storm damages during this upcoming monsoon season.

Cleaning Up After a House Fire

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

After a homeowner experiences a house fire, cleaning ash and soot residues becomes essential to get a home back to normal once the initially damaged belongings are addressed or disposed of. Smoke created by a fire fills the house and leaves behind not only an odor but residue that’s difficult to clean. Soot residues discolor and ruin contents and materials inside your house, which is why it’s important to focus on ash and soot cleanup after a home fire and get professional help doing so.

Deciding to replace or clean damaged items

Replacing items inside your home can get expensive, so cleaning items instead can save you money if it’s a feasible option. SERVPRO's fire damage technicians in Phoenix use a variety of approaches to clean during the fire mitigation process, depending on what is damaged by soot and smoke. The purpose of cleaning smoke-related damage is to restore the materials to the conditions they were before the fire whenever possible. Depending on the items, some cleaning methods work better in certain situations than others. The type of cleaning used depends on the kind of materials that got burned and the type of materials soot damaged. SERVPRO professionals are well-versed in cleaning such items and the best approach to take.

Fundamentals of cleaning damaged items
 

There are a few fundamental elements required to address residues so that they get removed effectively. The first component of cleaning is temperature. Heat increases the speed of chemical reactions in products. SERVPRO's fire restoration technicians know how to select the best temperature based on which chemical gets used and the material being cleaned. The next component is agitation. When soot-damaged materials get disturbed, the residues get dislodged, and chemicals get distributed across the surface which can make it easier to clean. When cleaning smoke-damaged surfaces, we agitate the surface with towels, brushes, air and water pressure, and sonic vibrations from ultrasonic machines. Soot residues also get cleaned through chemical action. Most chemicals are constructed to cause a reaction with the soot, therefore assisting in soot removal. The reactions that take place include dissolving, emulsifying, oxidizing, bleaching, and digesting. The last component of cleaning is time. Most chemicals need time to effectively react to the soot. The amount of time needed varies based on the product, type of residue, and the kind of surface affected by soot. Our techs know this and know how to leverage time to their benefit for the best results.

Call SERVPRO if you experience a house fire

In most situations, smoke and soot get removed the best by using a variety of approaches to cleaning. For professional help with cleaning residues call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 any time of the day. Our technicians will strive to restore all your possessions to pre-fire conditions to help you recover from the disaster of a house fire.

Dealing With Plumbing Leaks and The Water Damage It Causes

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Plumbing problems can result in major water damage to your home. When problems with plumbing cause excessive flooding, it requires the removal of equipment that most homeowners typically don’t own. Whether it's a slow leak or a full-scale burst pipe, the after-effects of crawlspaces, subfloor, and carpet pads that become saturated by water can cause lasting harm to a property's structure. It’s best to call in water remediation specialists to help with water removal and remediation.

How SERVPRO removes damaging water from your home

When our experts get called out to perform water cleanup, we bring the cavalry with us. Truck-mounted extraction units have stronger suction than their portable counterparts and can be vital in draining harder-to-reach areas. We usually reserve these trucks for commercial cleanups, but the large tanks they offer do come in handy for larger jobs at private properties. When it comes to removing water, we use water pumps at first, before moving in with more precise wet/dry vacuums and extraction wands. Our technicians pass a stringent training program before working in our franchises, so they understand exactly how to deal with water removal safely and thoroughly. Their training allows them to use advanced techniques to make sure moisture can be removed from even difficult-to-reach areas.

Especially tough areas to dry aren’t a challenge for us

Floorboards can be particularly difficult to dry, which is why SERVPRO uses flat lay drying techniques. A sheet is laid onto the affected surface and air circulation is applied; as the sheet inflates, water is drawn out and into the air. This technique is exceptionally useful in the removal of moisture from between floorboards or gaps in your home’s structure. It can also be effective in keeping the floorboards from warping if they aren’t completely dried. We do everything we can to dry out and retain materials whenever possible. Carpets may be pulled up, pads replaced, and subfloors inspected to ensure every ounce of moisture has been removed. All of these are notorious for retaining water undetected, so our techs make sure to do a thorough job to ensure everything is completely dry before putting them back in place.

Next steps to water removal and remediation

Once we’re sure that all water has been removed, we place rapid air-movers into the affected area to circulate hot air, which evaporates the last of the moisture. It is part of a two-step process that guards against the risk of mold or mildew buildup after a leak. The second step is to place humidifiers into the affected area and remove the evaporated moisture from the air. Once completed, our technicians remove all equipment as well as any materials that need discarding if we feel they are beyond remediation due to excessive moisture or other damage. We will always walk you through the affected area to show you where work has been completed, where items have been restored, and which items need replacing and why. We understand that replacing items can get expensive, so we work hard towards restoration rather than replacement to keep costs as low as possible for our customers. The customers are always in the loop with every step.

If you need water removal right away, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 to get the help you need; we’re available 24/7 for water emergencies.

Knowing When It’s Time to Call in Professional Help for Water Damage

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

We’ve all been there: we let a bathtub get too full, let a kitchen sink overrun, or maybe the toilet chose the worst time possible to overflow. If you catch these events quickly and mop up the excess water, you likely have dodged any long-term water damage as long as no moisture seeped into walls, floorboards, or under cupboards. Unfortunately, sometimes water damage occurs on a smaller scale, such as a persistent leak from a faucet fixture that, over time, causes water damage throughout the walls, cabinetry, and flooring of your home. Or, you may have a water incident like that toilet or bathtub, but the water sat for a substantial time before you caught it. Drying this damage fully is critical to preventing secondary effects that could prove detrimental to your home such as mold and mildew growth. It’s important to know when to call a professional when you experience water damage in your home.

Drying out your home

Drying out the water-damaged items within your home begins with an assessment of the full scope of the damage that exists. Our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix technicians undergo extensive training to earn their certifications through the IICRC in water damage restoration and continue these educational opportunities through in-house certification courses and applied hands-on instruction to become well-equipped for any facet of restoration they might have to address in the field. This gives us a distinct advantage in water damage assessment to efficiently inspect for potential concerns beyond easily visible issues. What might look like minimal water damage could be much more substantial; having a professional come in and detect moisture behind walls and floorboards can be crucial in negating future damage.

Addressing water damage issues

To assist with the water damage restoration work that SERVPRO does for every water damage project we begin, we depend on the advanced technologies at our disposal. These tools help to make the restoration process more efficient and offer the homeowner peace of mind that the job is getting done correctly and thoroughly. Our moisture detection equipment is a great example of this, as these tools help to show undetected areas of moisture you can’t see without tearing out materials. The combined use of air movers and industrial-strength dehumidifiers can have a powerful effect on drying out your home. Air movers force water rooted into materials like the cabinetry and walls, as well as other items, out into the air to get removed by the dehumidification equipment. This helps avoid potential issues with mold and mildew that could otherwise grow from residual moisture.

We are the water damage

We provide fast and professional water damage restoration services for any situation that might exist within your home. You can trust our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix technicians to utilize the full measure of their training and industry-leading equipment to resolve your water damage quickly. If you have experienced water damage in your home, don’t try to address it yourself, even if the water damage appears minimal. Know when to call the experts: give us a call at (602) 386-4268 to get the help you need.

Be Prepared for Power Outages Caused by Heavy Storms

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

There are a couple of times a year when Phoenix homeowners are at higher risk for a power outage. In the hottest summer months, we sometimes experience brief power outages as demand skyrockets. These outages are typically short, and power is restored quickly. The other time of year is during our monsoon season, when high winds, heavy rains, and flooding can cause havoc on our power system. Here’s how to be prepared for a power outage during storm season.

Be prepared for a power outage

Having a bit of knowledge under your belt will help you be better prepared for an outage. First, it’s always a good idea to create an emergency preparedness kit with a flashlight, batteries, and first aid supplies. Keep a spare power source available to charge cell phones and any other important devices that require power in case the outage is extensive. If you have an electric garage door opener, make sure you know where the manual release lever is located and how to operate it. There’s no reason for your car to be trapped in the garage if you know how to use the manual release lever. You might always want to have a few frozen water bottles and ice on hand to help keep perishable food cold. Learn and keep copies of your community's pre-established emergency preparedness plans. These can help you locate available shelters to provide assistance as needed if the power outage is significant or results in other damage. Create a backup plan for any essential, power-dependent medical devices that you rely on. Business owners can also prepare their businesses by having a plan in place. SERVPRO offers an emergency readiness plan to help be prepared for any disaster.

What to do during a power outage

Prioritize the use of flashlights for emergency lighting over candles. If you’re not careful, candles can cause fires, so use them with caution and never leave them unattended. Don’t open refrigerator and freezer doors closed unless absolutely necessary. An unopened freezer can keep cold for approximately 48 hours; while an unopened refrigerator can keep items cool for approximately 4 hours. Never attempt to burn charcoal indoors to cook food with. Never use an oven as a source of heat either. If the power outage is for an extended period of time, make arrangements to go to another location if necessary. Consider going to a movie theater or shopping mall that might be open around you. Consider using surge protectors in the event of a power surge; otherwise, unplug your electronics as a sudden power surge can cause permanent damage to your electronic devices. Monsoon storms are notorious for power surges! While generators can be particularly useful, talk to an electrician or engineer before purchasing and installing a generator for your home. Make sure any generator you use is away from your house and don’t connect it to your home's electrical system for use inside your home.

After you experience an extended power outage

If you have any perishable food that was at 40°F for more than at least 2 hours, has a non-normal odor, color, or texture, dispose of it immediately. If food in your freezer is colder than 40°F but still has ice crystals on it, it can still be frozen again and recovered. Fully restock your emergency kit with all new supplies. Be careful when powering items back up; don’t boot up everything at once! Most importantly, take stock of what you had and what you could have used during this outage and add it to your to-do list for future power outages.

No one expects a power outage in their home. While oftentimes these outages are brief, storms can cause delays in getting power restored, so having a before, during and after plan can keep you safe and not too inconvenienced. If you experienced any damage as result of the storm, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix 24/7 to address your damage. Call us at 602-386-4268 to get the help you need to recover.

Following Commercial Building Codes Can Protect Your Business

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Fire can be devastating to a business, regardless of its size. 60 to 80% of businesses that experience a structural fire never recover from fire damage that the commercial building is left with. It’s vital that you keep up to date with the latest community fire code, not only to protect from such disasters but to avoid being fined as well. Follow commercial codes to protect your business.

Fire code updates

The City of Phoenix updates the fire code annually and business owners should always be aware of these updates. Unfortunately, many commercial property owners do not update their fire disaster prevention methods when these updates are made.

Building owners are sometimes confused or uninformed when it comes to building codes, especially if their business is housed in a historic building. Some of the more common code violations include:

• Failure to install sprinklers in buildings that now require them.
• Fire exits are not maintained up to code standards
• Failure to install fire alarms where they are now required
• Appropriate signage is not updated
• Fire prevention equipment has not been updated to support structural changes to the building (fire department hookups, sprinklers, alarms, and extinguishers).

These basic actions should be taken more seriously when it comes to protecting your investment from a tragic fire. Seek assistance if you’re unsure of the fire codes in your city.

Contact your local fire department for assistance with fire codes

Did you know that you can call your local fire department and request to have a voluntary inspection? A firefighter will come out and designate fire hazards in your building prior to the official inspector who could issue a violation for these hazards, leaving you with costly fees. It’s a simple step that commercial building owners should take to protect against fire damage and plan ahead to keep their commercial property safe from a fire disaster.

When fire strikes, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix

Even the most diligent property owners can experience fire when circumstances are beyond their control. If your commercial property experiences a fire of any magnitude, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix immediately. We will respond immediately with mitigation, restoration, and reconstruction services. See why we say using our services is, "Like it never even happened." Call us at 602-386-4268 to get the help you need with fire damage.

How to Handle Water Damage Caused by Your Neighbors

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

If you live in an apartment, a condominium, or any other dwelling with shared walls, you’re at risk for water damage no matter how diligent you are about protecting your own place. Why? Whenever moisture makes its way into your building, there is a possibility your unit can be negatively affected. Many times, your home can suffer from water damage without you even noticing it. Moisture can soak into your unit from other apartments, and you might not even realize it. Wet materials in other parts of the building can cause humidity to rise inside the entire complex. Humidity can cause water damage issues with your contents and building materials even if nothing inside your unit comes into direct contact with moisture.

What can happen if your neighbors experience water damage?

The challenge with water damage in adjacent dwellings is that you may not see the damage right away, if at all. Water may soak into your ceiling, walls, or floors, or maybe behind cabinetry that’s on a shared wall. Warping, mold growth, and odors may result before you even suspect there’s an issue. If you see water damage, or if you detect a musty odor or cabinets pulling away from the wall, it’s a good idea to call water remediation specialists like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to inspect and resolve your issue.

Why contact SERVPRO

If you know there is a plumbing failure or other water damage inside your building; it’s smart to call in the professionals at SERVPRO. Our highly trained team can tell you if there is water damage inside your home. Our technicians are trained to be able to detect if excessive moisture has impacted your dwelling. We know what places to look and how to check for issues. Our SERVPRO technicians use their extensive training achieved by their completion of IICRC certification programs to determine where moisture could have entered your dwelling. We know how water travels through a structure as well as we know how buildings get built so that we have a good idea of how moisture moves through your apartment complex. Once we have an idea of where moisture could be, we utilize advanced technology to determine the moisture content of your structural components and personal possessions. We have at our disposal various types of moisture sensors that test how moisture affected different types of materials got as a result of the water leak. Once detected, we follow protocols to address the damage for the best water remediation outcome possible.

Keep your home protected from water damage

Even if you never experience water damage in your apartment, condo, or townhome, if you hear about a water leak taking place in a unit near yours, then call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 for fast 24/7 service. We’ll make sure that your home isn’t impacted by the water damage and if is, we’ll act quickly to address the situation and get your home back to normal.

Seek Professional Cleaning Services After Fire Damage

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

It’s always a good idea to know the right steps to take if your property suffers a fire damage incident. Distinct types of fires require different restoration measures, and as a result, it’s smart to contact licensed service providers to mitigate further damage from occurring and get the damage completely addressed. Remediation professionals who are IICRC certified and use relevant tools and procedures to restore your contents are the best way to ensure the job is done right.

Types of fire damage dictate cleaning approach

There are different levels of fire damages that any home is likely to experience – minimal, substantial, and major fire damage. Each level is associated with varying amounts of soot or smoke residues, how many areas were impacted, and the severity of the fire disaster itself. While wet or dry cleaning can be enough to restore minor fire damages, extensive procedures may be required when restoring specific fire disasters. SERVPRO technicians inspect your home to determine the extent of the damage before conducting appropriate restoration procedures. Technicians will also take into consideration what kinds of materials burned, such as plastics, wood, etc. to determine the best course of action.

Our process for fire remediation

Cleaning is one of the procedures that may be recommended if the fire did not result in a complete loss of property. Before this procedure can start, it is essential to know the kind of residues, the surface they are resting on, and how to find, remove and dispose of them. After pretesting and inspecting the residues, a technician can choose the right restoration method to use and will advise the homeowners of their approach.

After our SERVPRO technicians have identified the residues, they remove them using specialized techniques such as vacuuming and dissolving. When a fire burns, it gives off smoke residues that attach to the surrounding surfaces. When these residues, also known as soot, are loosely attached to an area, removing them using vacuuming may be an option. Before performing vacuuming, our qualified technicians always ensure the area is dry to get the best results possible and prevent further damage. When the residues are firmly attached to the surface, such as a stickier residue, dissolving them may be necessary to get the best results. SERVPRO technicians use cleaning products to dissolve the particles and then flush, rinse and dry the area once it is clean. After the cleaning process, we follow the local requirements to dispose of the particles appropriately.

Contact SERVPRO for fire damage cleanup

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has extensive experience in fire damage disasters. With a team of experienced, trained professionals, we can address every phase of fire recovery for your home. Call us at (602) 386-4268 24/7 to get the help you need in cleaning your home after you have experienced a fire.

Your Building’s Sprinkler System May Put Your Business at Risk

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Running a brick-and-mortar store can offer a great opportunity for foot traffic from day to day. While you work hard to keep your store well-stocked and ready for all that may visit your store, every business hovers on the edge of disaster if they have outdated sprinkler systems. Many of the older buildings that house the retail locations throughout the Phoenix might remain in compliance with adequate sprinkler fixtures but fail to appreciate the aging of these pipes and their ability to falter with time, which is a threat of water damage to a business.

Aging sprinkler systems can cause damage

Even some of the older sprinkler systems were not designed to be force-fed water when there is no emergency in the building. Instead, when these pipes break or rupture, you are only emptying out the current contents of these pipes instead of an endless supply from your service lines, so there is less water to cause damage. However, even with this lessened condition, this network of fire prevention plumbing can contain a fair amount of water volume, likely forcing you to pursue professional water removal services for your Phoenix store should you have a sprinkler system issue. One of the biggest concerns beyond the substantial water damage  is the liquid itself coming from the pipes. It is customary that the standing fluid in sprinkler systems is a mixture of water and an antifreeze solution. This chemical varies in viscosity and even color, posing a risk to the contents of your store.

How SERVPRO can help with a sprinkler system failure

If your business experiences a sprinkler system failure, our SERVPRO technicians can get to work quickly on extracting the water and assessing the damage to fabrics, textiles, and carpeting throughout this process. This inspection guides our professionals towards additional cleaning approaches that might be necessary following the drying of the affected areas. Once the extent of the damage has been ascertained, we follow a tried-and-true water remediation process to get rid of the moisture and remediate the situation, so your business can be up and running again as quickly as possible.

Call SERVPRO for your water damage needs

While you might not think of your sprinkler system as anything more than a damage deterrent in the event of a fire, sometimes these aging systems can cause many problems for business owners. Fortunately, you can trust our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix restoration specialists to help you clean up the mess and get back to serving the community as quickly as possible. Give us a call anytime at (602) 386-4268. We’re here to help!

How to Get Rid of Odors After a House Fire

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Home fires, regardless of size, leave behind destruction that has to be dealt with. One of the most frustrating aftermaths of fire damage is the odor that lingers behind, which few homeowners plan on after experiencing the trauma of a house fire. Eliminating these odors requires knowledge and specific deodorization equipment. That’s where SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help! Learn how we can assist with odor removal after you experience a house fire.

Fire damage deodorization

If you experience fire damage in your home, SERVPRO specialists can support you throughout the fire restoration process, including odor removal. With extensive experience in fire remediation, we understand how distressing it can be when this type of tragedy occurs. Our professionals can restore your home to pre-fire condition quickly and efficiently to make it livable again after a house fire, especially when dealing with unexpected odor aftermath. Successful fire damage deodorization requires using a combination of different techniques. SERVPRO fire remediation specialists can typically get rid of the offensive smells without needing additional steps. When it comes to deodorization, the first step is removing the source causing the odor. The second step is getting rid of any residues in the area. After cleaning, SERVPRO technicians follow up by air scrubbing or ventilating to get rid of odor molecules from the house.

Using a containment process for odors

Chemical containment is important in fire damage deodorization to prevent odor molecules from remaining in the air after a house fire. This involves decontaminating materials with a chemical deodorizer, which forms a barrier that keeps the odor molecules from escaping from the source material. Our technicians then neutralize any odor particles that may have vaporized into the air by applying advanced deodorant products into the surrounding air. These products neutralize the pungent smells. This process is a part of SERVPRO’s tried and true fire remediation process, so we’re confident we can successfully address odor issues in your home after a blaze and make your home enjoyable to live in once again.

We help fight fire odors

Knowing who to turn to for fire remediation efforts, including unplanned odor removal, can make the process less painful, and recovery faster. We can help you fight odors that are a result of a fire in your home. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can come in and begin the fire restoration process immediately; we’re available 24/7 to help. To get help after a house fire, call us at (602) 386-4268.

Suspect Your Home May Have Water Damage? Look for These Signs

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

For year-round homeowners in Phoenix, it’s common knowledge to inspect your home after torrential rains to look for potential water damage. However, for those who only live here part-time, coming home to questionable damage makes it hard to tell if water damage is to blame or something else. By identifying and treating problems earlier, SERVPRO can help to prevent situations such as mold growth and severe oxidation from causing damage to the structural components of your home. Here are a few signs that may indicate water damage in your home.

Discolored materials in the house

Many materials common in homes show water damage through discoloration if the damage has been sitting unnoticed for a while. Pigments or dyes used in fabrics, paints, flooring, and other surfaces can change color on a permanent or temporary basis when they come in contact with water, and can continue to be discolored once the water dries, such as yellow stains, though the shape, spread, and specific color of these spots can vary depending on how much water has been released, and what materials it has already come in contact with. One of the most destructive results in a water damaged home is color bleed from one fabric to another. If you come home to your winter house and notice such issues, it may be time to call in SERVPRO to look for water damage even if the water is long gone and advise on how to remediate the situation.

Unusual, musty, or moldy smells

A result of long-standing water damage can be unusual, musty, and off-putting smells. Oxidizing metals, damp wood and other materials, and long-term mold growth can all create unique and pungent odors in your home that are hard to deny. While smells can be useful to identify a problem, simply spraying the air with an air freshener won’t cut it, which is why SERVPRO technicians use multiple deodorization methods to rid your home of any unwanted smells by finding and getting rid of the cause.

Unusual sounds

Unusual sounds behind walls and below floors could be an indication of a water leak or other plumbing issue in your home. Drips may be obvious when you hear them but be alert for other unusual sounds as well. Water at high pressure inside pipes in your home can create unique sounds when something is amiss. Whirring or whooshing sounds of water running is a big tell and needs immediate attention to be addressed.

Contact SERVPRO if you have water damage

No matter how long the damage has been sitting for, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help homeowners with water leaks, floods, and other disasters in their homes. If you come home to suspicious signs of damage in your home, call us at (602) 386-4268 so we can get to the root of the problem and fix the situation.

Even Mild Rainstorms Can Bring Damage to Phoenix Homes

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Though stunning to watch, most homeowners are relieved once monsoon season passes, assuming they’ve avoided another year without storm damage to their home. Unfortunately, monsoons might do enough damage to weaken a roof; a mild winter rainstorm can be the final straw for a weakened roof or cracked windowsill, resulting in flooding or water damage in your home. Here’s how to be prepared and what to do if you experience storm damage.

Even light rainstorms can be enough to cause damage

If any part of a home is already slightly compromised from previous storm activity like monsoon season, all it takes is a little more rain to be the final straw, resulting in water damage. If your home experienced undetected damage, only to finally fail with a mild rainstorm, contact SERVPRO's flood damage team. Stormwater seeping into your home can cause much more damage to your house than you realize and it's important to address the damage as quickly as possible. Don’t be fooled into feeling secure that you avoided storm damage after another monsoon season has passed; your house may still be at risk.

The damage rainwater can do

Even the smallest amount of moisture can cause considerable damage to a home if left unchecked. Water itself can ruin building materials and contents inside your home. In the case of rainwater, the contamination level of the water coming into your home can be a significant issue. In most cases, rainwater entering the home is considered "grey" water damage. In flooding situations, water comes in from the outside forcing SERVPRO technicians to use different procedures than if the water came from a fresh source. Luckily, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is trained to work with all kinds of water and water damage and will suggest the best approach to get the job done. We’ll educate you on our approach and share our observations and recommendations based on the quality and quantity of water that’s damaged your home.

What SERVPRO does to address storm damage

Our highly trained SERVPRO team shows up at your house and gets to work immediately once alerted that water damage has occurred. We assess the damage and what the water situation is. After sharing our observations and recommendations with the homeowner, the next to step is to use specialized equipment to extract all the water we can. Items that are salvageable after water damage will be restored; other items may be too far damaged and will be discarded after notifying the homeowner. After extraction and restoration, there may be residual odors if the water has stood long enough, and mold may have started to grow. Our experts know how to handle any mold issues or odor removal to be sure your home returns as close to pre-storm damage condition as possible. Our job is to return your home to the way it was before the water damage occurred.

No one expects to suffer water damage from light rainstorms, but if you do, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 for 24/7 assistance. We’ll help you recover as quickly as possible from any water damage you may experience.

Humidity Can Cause Mold Damage in Your Home

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Winter months can bring humidity, and that excess humidity can cause mold damage to form inside of the homes that are not adequately equipped to deal with it. Mold damage initially grows from mold spores that have been exposed to moisture. Most people assume that the solution is to try and completely rid your home of mold spores, so the humidity levels do not matter. However, it is impossible to completely remove all traces of spores from your home and mold spores actually exist everywhere! They are microscopic and impossible to see but there are there, even in the cleanest of homes. This is natural and not out of the ordinary. However, because of these ever-present spores, mold damage can occur if humidity exists.

Avoiding mold damage in your home

The best way to avoid mold damage from forming in your home is to ensure that the conditions it needs to thrive are never present. Unfortunately, situations happen that trigger growth and it is not uncommon for mold to begin to grow right under a homeowner's nose, often unnoticed until the problem is substantial (like unseen behind walls or ceilings). What is important is that you take steps to remedy the problem as soon as you discover the mold damage, instead of leaving the problem to only get worse. Mold damage should never be left as is in your home. Not only is it unsightly, but mold can also eat away at organic materials, such as the wooden framework of a house, and cause further damage.

What can cause mold to grow

Most people don’t maintain a humid home on purpose, but a small leak, unnoticed drip behind walls, or water seeping through a roof into an attic all provide enough humidity for mold to grow. Calling a professional cleanup and restoration company like SERVPRO is the best action you can take for your home. Our IICRC-certified techs can get to work addressing the situation. After investigating the mold in home, SERVPRO can determine the cause, address the issue, and stop the mold growth. Using come disinfectant and antifungal agents, we can spray and wipe the mold right off of your walls or other infected areas to stop the spread and future issues. Afterward, SERVPRO can use advanced equipment like dehumidifiers to lower the overall humidity in your home so that mold doesn't begin to regrow immediately. To fight potential musty odors, we can use air scrubbers equipped with HEPA filters to combat the musty odor mold damage causes. SERVPRO always aims to return your home to the state it was in before the damage began.

If you have mold in your home from humidity, work with SERVPRO

If you find musty mold damage inside of your home, get help as soon as possible. Use your phone and dial (602) 386-4268 to speak with a representative of SERVPRO of Central Phoenix. Day or night, our techs are always available.

Dealing with Water Damage in Your Home

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

No one wants to start out the new year with water damage in their home, but the rains over the past couple of weeks may have been just enough to finally cause that roof to look or water to seep through window casings and cause damage to interior walls. Water can be rough on a home, even if it’s a smaller leak. It can penetrate solid materials like concrete or blocks or make its way into any crack or crevice found on your property without you even being aware that the damage is being done. When you experience water damage from a leak, it’s important to know how to get help to address the water damage in your home, starting with finding a remediation company like SERVPRO. 

What to look for in a water damage remediation company

A professional water damage repair restoration specialist can help you address water issues in your home, regardless of the cause.  Highly trained technicians know what to do to repair and restore your home, regardless of how extensive the damage is. When looking for a water damage remediation company to help you should you experience water damage, look for:

• A well-established company with a good reputation
• 24-hour emergency service
• Highly trained professionals
• A variety of tools to address water damage and restoration
• Advanced water inspection skills
• A proven process that uses inspection, assessment, extraction, drying, repair, and restoration

It’s important to work with a local company that understands every step of the process needed to restore your home after water damage occurs, from assessing the situation to communicating restoration options with the homeowner to addressing the water damage in your home,

Causes for water damage in your home

SERVPRO technicians respond to a variety of water damage situations, providing customers with a solution to each one in detail. There are many reasons why a home might experience water damage, from torrential storms to overflowing bathtubs or sinks to burst pipes or an overflowing pool. There may also be issues concerning washing machines or dishwashers, another common cause of a household flood or water damage situation. A malfunctioning appliance can flood your home within minutes, leaving little time to react and causing considerable damage to your flooring, furniture, and belongings, or even leading to additional hazards that make it hard to recover. With so many ways a home may become damaged by water, it’s important to know a company you can trust should water damage occur.

Why you need an experienced water remediation company

Water damage restoration involves several steps, from assessment to removing water, to drying out the home to restoring belongings. All the situations above introduce various kinds of damage. Flooding from an storm may bring dirty water into the home. A flooded pool could bring chlorinated water into the home. A broken washing machine may flood your home with soapy or bleach-tainted water. If a water heater bursts, water, and sediment can cause significant issues. Knowing how to address the damage from the water and what kind of repair will be done is important for effective restoration. It takes specialized equipment and infrared moisture detectors to get water out and more importantly, a knowledgeable professional who knows how to use the equipment. Cleaning, deodorization, and sanitation technicians with the proper IICRC certification provide you with your best opportunity for recovery, regardless of how the damage was done. SERVPRO knows how to address any kind of water damage from beginning to end so your home is restored back to pre-water damage condition.

If you experienced water damage in your home, don’t hesitate to call the experts at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix 24/7 to get you the help you need. Call us at 602-386-4268 and we’ll be there to help you recover.

Know When to Call in a Water Remediation Company for Water Damage

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Every home experiences some kind of flooding or water situation at some point. From leaving a kitchen sink unattended to an overflowing bathtub, every house gets wet at some point. If you’re there when these minor mishaps occur, you can likely stop the water and mop up the moisture before any damage is done. However, sometimes “minimal” water damage isn’t so minimal. Minimal water damage occurs on a smaller scale, such as a persistent leak from a faucet fixture that, over time, causes water damage throughout the walls, cabinetry, and flooring of your home. Addressing this damage is critical to preventing secondary effects that could prove detrimental to your home such as mold and mildew growth. It’s important to know when to call a pro when you experience water damage in your home.

Drying out your home after water damage

Drying out the water-damaged elements within your home begins with an assessment of the full scope of the damage that exists. Small water incident that you stopped almost immediately? Grab a mop to get up excess water and turn on the fans to dry out what little moisture might be left. If you experienced a small “whoops” and stopped the water before it seeped into walls, carpet, etc. you’re OK handling it on your own. Anything else needs to be addressed by professionals to avoid further damage. Our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix technicians undergo extensive training to earn their certifications through the IICRC in water damage restoration and continue these educational opportunities through in-house certification courses and applied hands-on instruction to become well-equipped for any facet of restoration they might have to address in the field. We’re experts in water damage assessment to efficiently inspect for potential concerns beyond easily visible issues.

Advanced technologies help address water damage issues

To accomplish the water damage restoration that SERVPRO does for water damage situations, we rely on the advanced technologies at our disposal. Unlike small water mishaps, more substantial leaks and floods leave behind water that’s not always visible. Our moisture detection equipment helps to show pockets of moisture the eye cannot see without tearing out materials unnecessarily. Combined with our air moving equipment and industrial-strength dehumidifiers, we can have a fast and powerful effect on drying out your home. Air movers force water embedded into materials like the cabinetry and walls, as well as other items, out into the air to get removed as a vapor by the dehumidification equipment we use, avoiding potential issues with mold and mildew that could otherwise grow from residual moisture.

We specialize in water damage cleanup

If your home experiences water damage, it’s best to call in the experts to ensure all water is removed so no future issues of mold, mildew, or odor arise. Our goal is to provide fast and professional water damage restoration services for any situation that might exist within your home. You can trust our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix technicians to utilize their training and industry-leading equipment to resolve your water damage quickly. If you have experienced water damage in your home, don’t try to address it yourself! Give us a call at (602) 386-4268 to get the help you need.

Mold Growth Mistakes to Avoid in Your Home or Office

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Mold often takes home and building owners by surprise if they haven’t recently experienced flooding or other noticeable water damage. Phoenix tends to be dry so for those who recently moved to the Valley from more humid parts of the country, mold is often the last issue they think they’ll contend with. However, the buildup of indoor moisture from high relative humidity during monsoon season, plumbing issues, or roof leaks may lead to mold damage, regardless of what the weather is outside when you discover mold. If you suspect mold damage in your home or office building, avoid these mistakes to keep from making the problem worse.

The importance of addressing mold damage

It is important to take precautionary measures when dealing with mold damage in your home or office building. You want to not only get rid of the mold growth you have but keep it from getting worse or returning again at a later date. Our SERVPRO technicians evaluate the level of contamination and choose the right approach for the job at hand to get the best results. Our pros are trained in how to correctly deal with mold issues and mold remediation, avoiding the mistakes a homeowner or building owner may make who is not familiar with mold and how it works, and residual issues it could leave behind.

Taking appropriate precautions when dealing with mold growth

Many people who experience mold think a little bleach can resolve the issue, but that’s not necessarily the case. SERVPRO technicians are careful not to spread the mold contaminant to clean and unaffected areas, and if we must disturb the mold growth when cleaning the site, we make sure containment procedures are already in place to keep things in check. Containment also helps limit mold exposure to the occupants in the home or office. Many owners skip this step and can make matters worse, from additional growth to odor problems. We do damp wiping and HEPA vacuuming to remove and potential spores before they spread. Our technicians determine the airflow direction and clean areas towards that path, and the cleaning process starts from the structure's top towards its bottom for the best results; it’s all a part of our proven mold remediation process.

What else SERVPRO does to stop the growth and prevent damage

When drying the items and rooms in an impacted home or building, our SERVPRO technicians remove any wet objects from the area to speed up evaporation. After that, we set up dehumidifiers to lower the humidity in the room to discourage more growth. If necessary, we’ll remove damaged items that can’t be restored and dispose of safely after informing the homeowner or building owner of the situation. We do our best to restore impacted items utilizing several methods of cleaning your contents, but not everything may be salvageable if the damage is too much.

Contact SERVPRO to get the job done

At SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, we understand mold growth and know how to handle mold remediation, including odor removal. If you experience mold issues in your home, contact us 24/7 at 602-386-4268 to get the job handled.

Regular Duct Cleaning Should be Part of Your Office Building Maintenance

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Most office building owners have regular maintenance done to ensure the building is clean and safe. However, one item that’s often overlooked is duct cleaning. It is especially important to have your commercial ducts cleaned. If you can’t remember the last time these were addressed, then it’s time!

Why get your building’s ducts cleaned?

Ventilation systems are often the biggest cause of poor indoor air quality, including dust and even odors. If your HVAC has been operating for some time without proper cleaning, it could be circulating odors, dust, and more. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix routinely inspects the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit of businesses all over the Valley. Keeping ducts clean can extend the life of the equipment, which can save building owners money.

How do you know when it’s time to clean your ducts?

Duct cleaning should be a part of your regular building maintenance. If you’ve never had them cleaned, have done major construction which generated dust and particles, or it’s been so long ago that you don’t remember, it may be time to clean your ducts! Why clean after construction? Dust and dirt will reside in your air ducts and just get worse over time if not cleaned out. Not sure the work was that dusty? SERVPRO will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns at your business and let you know if you’re due for a cleaning.

What is duct cleaning?

Duct cleaning typically refers to the cleaning of various heating and cooling system components of forced air systems, including the supply and return air ducts and registers, grilles and diffusers, heat exchangers heating and cooling coils, condensate drain pans, fan motor and fan housing, and the air handling unit housing. This can help eliminate dust, pollen, odors, dirt, debris, and other contaminants. The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include and getting your ducts cleaned include:

• Help restore peak energy efficiency.
• It may help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Help reduce the potential for mold growth.

Schedule your duct cleaning today!

You can call our office to schedule your duct cleaning. SERVPRO has highly trained professionals ready to help you and your home and business get those ducts cleaned. We offer free estimates so you’ll know what the cost will be before we start the work. If you feel like you need your air ducts cleaned call a SERVPRO professional today at (602) 386-4268.

Have Functioning Smoke Alarms in Your Home to Stay Protected

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Owning a home requires a lot of maintenance. It’s easy to remember cosmetic maintenance tasks such as washing windows, cleaning the house, or even changing air filters. For some reason, many homeowners who are otherwise diligent about home care overlook smoke alarms. While many homeowners know the value of smoke alarms, few take the time to make sure in working order, which can render an alarm useless. You can protect your home from fire with smoke alarms. Learn more about them and your home to stay protected.

Why have a smoke alarm in your home?

Smoke alarms play a critical role in protecting your home, your belongings, and your family. When properly installed, they can reduce the risk of fire injury by providing early detection. It can also help minimize damage to your home by providing early detection of smoke and fire, allowing for a faster reaction to the situation. The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters, and on every level of the house. Here are a few tips regarding smoke alarm installation, testing, and maintenance:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Smoke alarms should be located away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. (at least ten feet from a cooking appliance).
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button. Pick the same day each month to make it easy to remember
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms annually. If an alarm beeps, the battery is low and should be replaced right away. Traditionally, the end of Daylight Saving Time has served as a reminder to change the batteries in your smoke detectors. 
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Are smoke alarms enough protection?

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a solid fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, including your family pets, to escape quickly and safely in an emergency. The Red Cross put together a helpful fire escape plan that homeowners can use and share with their families. While smoke alarms can’t prevent a fire, early detection can protect your family’s safety, alerting them to get out of the home quickly in case of fire, and possibly minimizing damage to the home by addressing the fire early and extinguishing it quickly.

If you experience a fire, contact SERVPRO

If you experience a fire in your home, contact a fire remediation company like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix once the flames are out to help address the damage done by fire, smoke, soot, and fire extinguishing materials used by the fire department. Our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix IICRC-Certified fire restoration technicians can help. We’ll address the damage and work to make your home look "Like it never even happened," addressing property damage as well as odors to help restore your home. If you experience a fire in your home, or have questions about fire, smoke, or soot damage, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268. We’re here 24/7 to help!

Look to SERVPRO For All Your Building Services Needs

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

While SERVPRO is known for our remediation services for water, fire, smoke, or mold damage, we actually offer a comprehensive suite of building services as well. That means that homeowners have a one-stop option for all their repair, remediation, and rebuilding needs. Learn why you should look to SERVPRO for all your building service needs.

SERVPRO offers it all with an in-house team          

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has been helping homeowners and commercial building owners all over the Valley with their reconstruction needs for many years. Our in-house construction specialist is a licensed and bonded KB2 contractor and can handle a variety of jobs from framing to finished carpentry and cabinets, post demolition framing to drywall installation, and even new floors and ceilings. Yes, we really can do it all! That means if you experience any kind of damage from flooding, fire, mold, our crew can handle the damage remediation first, then work on building and reconstruction as needed. We offer it all with our in-house team!

An overview of building and construction services we offer

Here is a list of all the building and reconstruction services offered by SERVPRO:

• Board Up
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Document Drying
• Dry Cleaning
• Drywall Installation
• Drywall Removal
• Electrical
• Electronics Restoration
• Fine Art Restoration
• Furniture Restoration
• General Contracting
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• HVAC Services
• Linoleum Floor Repair
• Marble Floor Repair
• Move Out
• Painting
• Plumbing
• Portable Power
• Roof Tarp
• Roofing Services
• Scalable Resources
• Temporary Fencing
• Temporary Warehouse Space
• Tile Floor Repair
• Tree Removal

Why use SERVPRO for restoration and reconstruction services?

We know there are many companies that can help with reconstruction, but few that hold multiple certifications and advanced training to make sure the job is done right, from remediation through reconstruction like SERVPRO can. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration, following IICRC standards and best practices in cleaning and restoration.

Need remediation and rebuilding? Contact SERVPRO!

If you experience damage to your home or business, contact us to get the job done quickly and professionally. We’re a 24/7 service so when you need us, contact us, any time day or! We are ready to help in any kind of disaster, big or small. We have the resources to tackle any job you might have. If your home or business experiences any kind of damage, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at 602-386-4268 to get the problem handled fast!

Get Help for Water Damage from A Bathroom Leak

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

When water begins leaking from your sink, bathtub, or shower in your home, it can create damage to the floors, walls, framing, and more, even if you do not see any signs of damage. Water leaks are often overlooked until the damage is already done. These damaging leaks can come from fixture drains or the water supply plumbing inside the wall. Faucets and plumbing valves also leak and can easily go unnoticed for long periods of time. Learn what to do if you have water damage in your bathroom from a leak.

Addressing the leak immediately

When you have a water damage situation in your Phoenix home, it needs to be addressed right away to prevent even more damage from occurring to your bathroom and beyond. It’s a smart idea to reach out to the water remediation specialists at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to help you with the water cleanup and damage repairs. Our techs are thoroughly trained in water remediation and have the right equipment to take care of the job quickly and efficiently. The first step is to identify the source of the leak and stop it. Once that’s taken care of, it’s time to remove the water, which SERVPRO can handle through several types of equipment. Once we have removed any excess water, we need to begin drying the structure immediately. Warm, dehumidified air is blown into any cavities where water seeped in to expedite the drying process and guard against the growth of mold.

Handling the moisture issue

Even after visible water is gone, our job isn’t done. While we are utilizing our equipment to dehumidify the air, the moisture content is checked on a daily basis with moisture meters, including penetrating and non-penetrating types. Hygrometers can also be used to measure the moisture in the air and hydro sensors that indicate the moisture content of porous items like carpeting are utilized as well. It’s important to ensure that moisture hasn’t crept into any crevices or beneath cabinets or behind walls, so our technicians thoroughly check to ensure the job gets done. Other areas of the structure which were affected are set up with air movers and dehumidifiers as well in case there was water movement beyond the initial leak area. All affected areas are also cleaned and sanitized when drying is complete.

Contact SERVPRO to get the help you need

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix understands that during a water disaster like this, it can be stressful to see your home in such a state. Bathroom leaks can quickly get out of hand unless handled promptly and professionally We work quickly, but efficiently, to get your home back to its usual condition “Like it never even happened.” If you experience a bathroom leak, call us 24/7 at (602) 386-4268 to get the help you need.

How to Address a Mold Infestation in Your Office Building

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

The possibility of a mold infestation is not usually top of mind for commercial building owners since our climate typically isn’t considered conducive to a mold threat. Unfortunately, mold infestation does happen. Learn more about mold and what to do if it strikes your place of business.

Yes, Phoenix buildings can experience mold growth

While in general Phoenix has a drier climate, the truth is that commercial mold damage can happen in any Phoenix business if there are enough moisture and a source of food such as most building materials. The temperature range for most molds to grow is 68 to 86 degrees, so SERVPRO technicians know that stopping mold by adjusting the temperature is rarely an option. Even a small amount of moisture that enters a building after a substantial rain or flood can quickly turn into a mold infestation if not properly addressed, which is where SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help.

Addressing mold damage in commercial buildings

Removing mold damage from a facility means SERVPRO’s restoration team must find and eliminate the source of a mold, not just clean out obvious indications like a black streak in a bathroom or kitchen. The only way to prevent further growth and eliminate this threat is to remove every trace of mold spores the team can find. This isn’t as easy as it sounds, as mold spores are actually present everywhere, all the time. The challenge is to keep growth from happening and causing damage.
 
SERVPRO technicians start with finding the moisture that allowed the first spores to expand and grow. Eliminating that forces the mold to quickly return to an inactive state. Inert mold spores also stop growing across or into surfaces. That stops damage from getting worse and prevents new damage to ceilings, walls, and floors. For any building material already penetrated by mold, the most cost-effective method is to dispose of it. Drywall is often difficult to clean and digging mold out of it quickly compromises the structural integrity. The labor cost to attempt to repair it is always more expensive than buying new panels.

What happens after damaged materials are removed

After removing all damaged material, SERVPRO technicians spray the interior of the building with an anti-fungal agent to eliminate the spores. After it dries, technicians will wipe everything down to remove the now dead spores. They may also take further measures to address any lingering musty odors that were a result of mold growth so that your commercial building returns to pre- mold infestation conditions.

 
While it is impossible to eliminate all mold, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help you remediate damage to your business and prevent growth in the future, as well as resulting odors. If you suspect a problem in your facility, call us today at (602) 386-4268. We are here for you 24/7.

Protecting Your Home During Fire Season and All Year Long

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

It’s been an active fire season in Arizona and across the country. While temperatures are starting to cool, there are still fire risks that homeowners should be aware of to keep their property safe. Recent rains have caused properties all around the Valley to experience a lot more over-growth this year. When the sweltering heat dried all those shrubs up, overgrowth can leave your Phoenix home or business property at risk. Here are a few ways you can protect your property from fire.

Eliminate brush and overgrowth from your property

Dead bushes, broken branches, dried weeds, leaves, and other dead plants serve as kindling and can quickly ignite under the right circumstances like an errant cigarette or other flammable objects. Eliminating them is the first thing you'll want to do to make your property safer. It is recommended that you create at least a five-foot barrier around the property that is free of any fire dangers like flammable items. Use rocks instead of grass or keep your grass short and healthy. Even healthy plants can dry up quickly under the right circumstances like a broken drip system that goes undetected until the plant expires. Play it safe and keep the brush clear.

Store firewood away from your home

Keep firewood and other lumber away from your house. As we get into the colder season, it’s tempting to stock up on firewood for cool outdoor firepits; it's best to keep the wood in a fire-resistant box or at least cover it with a tarp, keeping it a safe distance from the property at all times. Never pile up wood right up against your house; you’re just adding potential kindling to the fire! Fire remediation specialists often see this as a contributing factor to fire starting or spreading in a home. Keep it away and stay safe.

Keep your rain gutters clean

When gutters aren't cleaned regularly, they fill up with dead leaves and other potentially flammable materials which will easily spark, especially during the hot days or from a random spark from that outdoor firepit. Cleaning them regularly keeps them clean of any potentially flammable debris. Make it a habit to regularly check your rain gutters to ensure there’s no blockage or debris.

Check smoke detectors frequently

Smoke detectors are one of your home’s last lines of defense should a fire occur. Be sure to check the batteries and test the smoke detectors regularly. New smoke detectors on the market can even alert you on your phone to any fire dangers putting your property at risk so that you can take necessary precautions. A small fire or a smoldering item in your home can be prevented from turning into a full-fledged fire with fast action. Smoke detectors are critical to keeping your home safe.

The weather in Arizona has been more than a little unpredictable this year. While sizzling hot weather and monsoon lighting appear to be gone, don’t stop being diligent about fire safety in and around your home. Should you experience a fire, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix 24/7 at 602-386-4268. We’ll work with you to restore your home before the fire happened.

Storm Damage Continues Even After Monsoon Season Passes

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Monsoon season is officially over, but someone forgot to tell Mother Nature. Several days into October have seen storms, from light sprinkles to torrential downpours. If the rainy season in Arizona is new to you, then here are a few things you should understand about monsoons and the damage they can cause.

Flash flooding happens... a lot

One frequent item you’ll see on the news during the rainy season is how cars get stuck in flash floods. What most people are surprised about is how this can happen within city limits, not just remote backroads that are prone to flooding. Neighborhoods all over Phoenix experience flash flooding from storms every year. Flash flooding can cause anywhere from a small amount of damage to your property to substantial damage requiring remediation. Because of Phoenix's unique geographic location, it is vulnerable to the leftovers of tropical storms, which originate from the Pacific ocean and make their way to our state. Just because we don’t have beachfront property in Arizona doesn’t mean we don’t experience storms coming in off the ocean. The water from these storms can be torrential, which can lead to flash floods. Make sure your home has proper drainage so excess water doesn’t permeate your home. Flash flooding is just one of the many ways that these storms can impact your home and cause damage.

High winds can damage homes

Storm damage can be exceptionally damaging to your home, regardless of whether it’s old or new. High winds and flying debris can break a window and allow the water to enter. It can rip off rain gutters, loosen roof tiles and permeate into your home. It can uproot trees that can fall on your home, vehicle, or wall. As the winds from the storm recede and some of the water goes with it, the damage may continue. With high winds and water, undetected and unaddressed water can result in mold growing within moist walls and attics, so be sure to inspect the damage thoroughly from the wind as well as the water that may have entered your home and call for professional help if you find any damage.

Floodwaters and the aftermath

Floodwaters are not always clean; in fact, they can often come teaming with chemicals, pesticides, petroleum products, and sewage depending on where they came from. When the water becomes mixed with such things, disposing of it is not a job for a layperson. When black water or otherwise compromised water floods your home, it is best to call SERVPRO because we have the proper equipment and tools to deal with the problem. If left unaddressed, flood water can ruin furnishings in your house. It is essential to understand and know what possessions and materials are safe to keep and dry out inside of your home and what needs to be discarded. SERVPRO can sort through your belongings and advise you on what you can and what you should not keep. We even offer a document drying service should you need it.

New residents of AZ are often taken by surprise by the amount of damage caused by monsoons and other seasonal storms. If storm damage impacts your Phoenix home, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix so that we can assist you with the damage and get your house back to normal. Call us today (602) 386-4268.

Older Phoenix Homes May Be at Risk for Water Damage

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

If you relocated to Phoenix from colder climates, you may have thought that the risk of broken pipes in your home was left behind when you moved to Arizona since freezing is no longer an issue in hotter weather. While damaged pipes from freezing might not affect Phoenix homes, the area is still susceptible to water pipe breaks, especially if you live in an older home. Many areas in Phoenix have older, historic homes, and with those homes come older water pipes. Though a water pipe break can occur in a home of any age, older homes can be exceptionally susceptible. Learn more about what to do if your older home experiences a pipe break and how water remediation professionals can help.

Why older homes carry more risk of water damage

There are plenty of Phoenix homes that become susceptible to water damage from events like broken pipes, and a bad enough break could cause a fair amount of damage. For many houses, the indoor plumbing is sufficient to handle this added pressure, but with older or improperly installed plumbing, this could quickly lead to a water emergency for your home. Houses built between the years 1978 and 1995 often used plastic resin called polybutylene to manufacture piping systems. Unfortunately, polybutylene proved unable to handle the oxidants commonly found in water supplies, which led to weak or failing pipes. If your older home has this kind of pipes, there is an increased risk of leaks and breakage.

What to do if your home experiences water damage from broken pipes
 

SERVPRO technicians have experience in various water damage situations and have the tools and expertise to clean up the mess for you and return your home to preloss condition. The process starts with eliminating the root of the problem, which means initially cutting the supply of water into your home via the primary service line valve. Depending on the severity of the damage that is visible when entering your home, SERVPRO professionals get to work extracting water and addressing the damage. Technicians will also ensure water is completely removed to discourage the growth of mold or unpleasant odors caused by residual dampness. Depending on where the break occurred, you may have damage to carpets or drywall that may need to be repaired; SERVPRO can help with that as well.

Many people are not aware of the condition or strength of their indoor plumbing in their older home until it fails. If you have a water emergency due to older pipes leaking or breaking, do not hesitate to call our experienced team of professionals at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix. You can reach us 24/7 at (602) 386-4268.

Common Causes for Mold Growth in Your Home

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

Mold is always a nasty discovery in your home. Oftentimes the homeowner wonders what they did wrong or perhaps feels they weren’t keeping their home as clean as they should. However, mold growth can happen for a number of reasons, a few of which end up being the homeowner’s fault considering mold spores are present everywhere and it takes very little to encourage growth.

What typically causes mold growth in homes

Mold damage in Phoenix is not always a random occurrence. Specific events cause mold to grow in your home, and while they may not always lead to a mold growth problem, SERVPRO has seen enough cases over the years to know just how vulnerable most residences in the Phoenix area are, especially after heavy monsoon seasons. Mold grows best in dark, humid environments, which can occur frequently after a storm. The truth is that spores might be waiting for a chance to grow anywhere in your home if any of these events happen.

You've experienced a leak in your home

Leaking pipes, faucets, and other water-based fixtures in your Phoenix home could contribute to mold growth. Spores grow quickly around any water source they can find, even if the volume of water is negligible. As long as moisture remains consistent in the affected area, the types of mold spores found in Arizona can start to grow. If you have discovered any leaks in your home or suspect that they may exist, there is a good chance that your home is hiding a past or present mold infestation. Even if the leak is long gone, if there is residual water damage, chances are there is mold growth as well.

Monsoon season

When monsoon storms come through the Valley, they create an ideal opportunity for mold to grow in your home. Any leaks in your roof or siding could contribute to an infestation somewhere in your home, oftentimes undetected. SERVPRO technicians can use advanced moisture detection tools to detect unusual levels of moisture anywhere in your home. While mold growth may go unseen, a musty odor is a sure sign that mold growth is present and needs to be addressed.

Flooding in your home

Many of the damage-causing floods in homes start with problems as mundane as a malfunctioning dishwasher or an overflowing bathtub. Any time a large part of your home's flooring becomes covered in water, it should be treated as a potential precursor to a mold problem because of the substantial amount of water that may have seeped into flooring and drywall.

What to do if you have mold issues

Regardless of whether your mold issue is a result of leaks, floods, or storms, it’s important to get the issue addressed immediately. If you experience mold, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at 602-386-4268 to handle the mold immediately. Don’t try to clean up mold on your own; leave it to the remediation experts to get it done!

Be Prepared for Any Disaster That Can Impact Your Business

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month, and business owners should take note. While no one expects a disaster in their place of business, it can happen for a number of reasons, so it’s important to be prepared.

Planning for unforeseen disasters

Business owners know that the unexpected will eventually happen, even if the event is minor. Putting business emergency plans in place is key to navigating disastrous events, such as flooding from a broken pipe, mold, vandalism, or fires. Being prepared for downtime, lost revenue, and other negative effects can make or break a business. The more you are prepared, the faster you can recover.

While some issues are unavoidable, having a strong understanding of potential risks, what they may mean to your business, and how to bounce back is necessary to prevent substantial loss from occurring. Every business is different and may face different issues that could result in an interruption or complete shutdown. Along with potential environmental problems, such as flooding, other factors also need to be considered such as fire, vandalism, or arson. Once the risks are known, it is easier to figure out which situations may be preventable or at least mitigated. Analyzing the risks includes knowing their costs. Factors that come into play include lost revenue, expenses for property loss and repairs, and possible penalties if you are liable for the damage experienced. Insurance is easy to forget about until it is needed. If significant damage occurs, it’s important to know who to call for help.

What to do if disaster strikes your business

Even with all the planning, disasters can strike businesses of any size. With a disaster plan in place, facing emergencies will be a little more manageable for business owners. The plan to minimize losses does require immediate action to get the situation under control. Once you file a claim, contacting a damage mitigation and restoration company is the next step. Along with finding the source of the problem, the remediation process should be started as soon as possible. Calling in trained disaster professionals like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help the recovery process happen quicker and go more smoothly.

Call SERVPRO for your business recovery needs

Running a business of any size comes with many unknowns but knowing how to deal with a loss doesn’t have to be one of them. Creating a solid plan of action and knowing the possible risks may help minimize claim losses and get your business back to operating "Like it never even happened." If your business experiences a disaster, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix immediately to get the recovery process started and your business back on track. We can be reached 24/7 at 602-386-4268.

Why Air Movement is so Important to the Water Remediation Process

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

No one expects water damage to their home but when it happens, working with a water restoration company that knows how to utilize air movement to dry out your home is critical. Extracting the water and drying your properties as soon as you can is necessary. When some materials stay wet for up to 48 hours, there are chances of mold growth taking place. Air movement can help when salvaging your contents and restoring your home after a flood or other water damage to your home.

The water damage restoration process by SERVPRO

During water damage restoration, our SERVPRO technicians use air movers to speed up the rate of evaporation and decrease the drying time to help get your home back to preloss condition. They work by increasing airflow around the wet surface and in the process, push the moisture into the surrounding air. It means drier air replaces the wet air. Technicians may also float carpets by using a carpet clamp which is present in some air movers and blow drier air. If we need to direct the air into wall cavities, we have attachments for air movers to get into those smaller spots and get the area dried out. When it is necessary to move higher quantities of air during the restoration process, technicians may use heavy-duty venting fans. These devices are also known as axial fans. As wet air is added into the surrounding air, the humidity rises, and there reaches a point where the air cannot absorb any additional moisture. That’s when our SERVPRO technicians perform dehumidification by using dehumidifiers.

Following a tried-and-true water remediation process

Our trained technicians follow a proven water damage restoration process, starting with inspection and ending in restoration. Step 4 of that process is specifically dedicated to drying and dehumidification, which our trained pros follow to ensure all water is removed to prevent further damage. Our drying equipment used includes Industrial-grade dehumidifiers that help prevent secondary water damage like swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture, as well as high-speed air movers that create airflow across walls, carpets, pads, and furniture, which accelerates the evaporation of moisture. We know what works and work the process for the best results!

Contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix if your home experiences a flood

 
SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is a trusted restoration industry leader that is locally operated and owned. Call us at (602) 386-4268 when you need experienced and highly trained technicians to restore your property using proven techniques.

How Mold Grows in Phoenix Homes

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Homeowners are often quite surprised that mold can grow in a traditionally dry environment like Phoenix. Except for monsoons, the weather is too dry to encourage mold growth, yet it can happen! Here’s how mold grows in Phoenix homes and what to do about it.

The desert isn’t protected against mold growth

Phoenix may be going through a dry spell outside of monsoons, but that does not mean the area is free of mold. Mold spores are always present and waiting for an opportunity to grow in your home, posing a major problem even when the weather is dry, and temperatures are soaring. Mold damage can happen in Phoenix any time of year, regardless of weather, for many reason reasons. Here are a few ways mold could come to your home even when the city is at its hottest and driest.

Leaky pipes

Hidden leaks are one of the top causes of mold damage in Phoenix area homes, and for good reason. These leaks are difficult to identify before they develop into a larger problem and tend to occur in out-of-sight places like cabinets, spaces between walls, and high-up areas of the home. Unfortunately, that can lead to real mold problems. Even a small leak can create a significant mold problem if the flow or drip of water is consistent, keeping the area moist and prime for mold growth. This is the common cause of mold damage behind walls in homes.

High humidity in your home

Some homes are much more humid than the surrounding environment. While high humidity is common during the monsoons, other situations can cause higher than normal humidity in homes. This may be caused by water fixture usage and HVAC system operations, or it may be due to the introduction of artificial humidifying devices. The elevated humidity levels typical in most homes when one of these situations is present can provide some types of molds all they need to begin to grow. SERVPRO is very careful in all mold remediation projects to monitor atmospheric humidity and make adjustments as needed. While mold remediation is the first step, we’ll help you understand how it happened to avoid such growth in the future.

Unusual circumstances

Occasionally, individual events in the home may lead to the development of a mold colony. Perhaps Monsoons storms seeped through windowsills or cracks in the ceiling. Other leaks such as appliance failures have spilled across the floor and soaked into the carpet and was never completely dried out. Perhaps that bathtub was forgotten while it was getting filled and overflowed into the bathroom and possibly even adjacent rooms. Regardless, our services are flexible to accommodate a wide range of accidents and scenarios with maximum efficacy.

Work with professionals if you have mold growth

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is ready 24/7 to respond to local calls for help with mold issues. For our assistance in dealing with a mold infestation, give us a call at (602) 386-4268. We’re here to help get your home back to pre-mold infestation condition quickly and professionally.

Fire Remediation Services You May Need After a House Fire

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

A fire in your home can be an overwhelming experience. Smoke, soot, and flames can cause significant damage to your property. Residues from chemicals used by firefighters can also damage furniture, carpeting as well as the flooring in your Phoenix home as they try to extinguish the flames. Fire can also burn or char parts of the structure and materials in the home. Once the fire has been extinguished, ash, soot, and nasty smoke residues can linger inside the home and be difficult to clean. Learn about fire remediation services you may need after a house fire.

Fire remediation specialists at SERVPRO

Professional fire damage restoration services can restore your home and its belongings when possible. SERVPRO’s trained crew can use a variety of cleaning methods to remove fire residues from the affected areas of your home inside and out. Fire can damage or weaken the structure of the home, which is why contacting SERVPRO right away is a good idea. We are nearby and can be at your residence in a matter of hours after your initial contact. We’re available 24/7 to help you recover from fire damage as quickly as possible.

How SERVPRO assists with fire remediation

After our trained team inspects your home for damages, we may perform minor repairs to the structure such as boarding up a missing window or door or taping to protect specific areas of the structure as we do our work. Removing items from the home that are unsalvageable like charred furniture and burned clothing and drapery is also part of the fire restoration process. Items and materials in the home that are salvageable are cleaned, and sanitized and can be stored in a safe area away from the structure until the restoration is complete. Our trained professionals will communicate their assessment every step of the way so you’re always informed about what can be repaired and what cannot. Homeowners can rest assured that we follow a very specific fire damage restoration process to get the best possible results.

Cleaning up fire damage as a next step

In addition to charring and soot, as well as chemicals used to extinguish the flames, strong odors can remain after a fire. SERVPRO technicians can use air scrubbers, fans, and top-grade fogging equipment to quickly eliminate strong smoke odors in your home. They may also use industrial cleansers to remove soot and dirt from the floors, walls, and ceilings. Industrial odor removal products may also be utilized to clean and remove odors from items and materials affected by the fire. SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other shortcuts don't work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.

When possible, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can restore your fire-damaged property to its pre-fire condition. We endeavor to make you feel “Like it never even happened.” Contact us at (602) 386-4268 for our professional fire remediation services.

Arizona Storms Can Bring Unexpected Damage to Your Home

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Monsoons in Arizona can be quite spectacular to behold. Depending on the strength of the storm, your home could experience flood damage, fallen trees, or a leaky roof. If you’ve experienced a particularly strong storm and noticed no damage, you may feel like you’re in the clear. However, Arizona storms can bring unexpected damage to your home. Learn more below.

The unseen damage of storms

While water may not be dripping from your ceiling or pouring down your walls, there is a chance that some water may have seeped into walls, ceilings, or attics after an especially strong storm. Unfortunately, unless you’re in the habit of inspecting every inch of your home after each storm, you may not realize there is any damage until it’s too late. A common result of unseen water is mold.  Left alone, mold can spread and cause significant damage to your home.

Mold is always present

What most homeowners don’t realize is that microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors, and outdoors. If your home experiences mold growth after a storm, know that our mold remediations specialists will come in and remediate the mold in your home. We’ll inspect the extent of the damage, contain the mold growth, remove any mold-infested materials, and ensure there are no residual odors so that your home is back to normal after a mold growth situation.

Small water damage, bigger issues

If your home does experience visible water damage, you may be tempted to simply mop up the visible water, throw open the windows for some air, and run the ceiling fans in hopes of everything drying out. Unfortunately, that may not be enough to address the damage done by the storm. If water is not completely removed and materials such as walls and carpeting dried out, mold growth and accompanying odor issues may happen. May also not be aware that the small amount of visible water damage from the storm may be much more significant behind your walls or in your attic. Storm water can be deceiving, entering small spaces, and causing more damage if it’s undetected. Water remediation specialists like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix are trained to not only address visible damage but look extensively for unseen water damage from storms.

If you experience even minor damage from monsoon storms, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix 24/7 at 602-386-4268 to ensure your home is free from ongoing issues.

Grease Fire Prevention and What to Do If One Occurs

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

With monsoon season upon us, some find it far too difficult to cook outdoors between the heat, rain, and high winds. Since summer is still high season for parties and get-togethers, that means more time in the kitchen. Grease fires can be particularly challenging as people are unsure to how to prevent them and what to do if they occur. Be sure to stay safe and avoid kitchen fires with these safety tips.

How to prevent a grease fire

Here are a few helpful tips to prevent experiencing a grease fire in your kitchen.

1. Keep any objects that could potentially catch on fire away from the stove or cooking area. That includes cookbooks, towels, paper towels, etc. These type of items can instantly fuel a grease fire. 
2. Avoid wearing loose, flowing clothes that could get too near the flames, such as sleeves.
3. Keep your eye on a hot pan that’s cooking; leaving it unattended even for a short period of time can result in fire.
4. Heat oil gradually and add food slowly to minimize grease splatter, which can burn skin or catch fire. Remove as much moisture as possible from food before submerging it in grease to avoid splattering.
5. Smoking grease is dangerous, as the flash point of a grease fire is 500 degrees so use great caution when it starts to smoke. If grease starts smoking, turn the heat down immediately. Not only will this prevent a fire, smoking grease is not ideal for cooking. Turn those flames down!

How To Put Out a Grease Fire

Sometimes no matter what you’ve done to avoid a grease fire, they happen regardless. Many people are unsure how to put out a fire; the wrong move can exacerbate the situation, so know what to do if you experience a flare up.

1. Equip your kitchen with a Class B of K fire extinguisher.
2. If your pan does catch fire, smother it placing a lid on top of the pan. Never throw water on the fire or run it to the sink or outside as this will result in worsening the flames and potentially causing burns.
3. Turn off the heat source immediately. 
4. If the fire is small and manageable, smother it with baking soda or salt, though still use a lid to be sure the flames are out and to protect you from splattering grease.
5. If necessary, spray the fire with a fire extinguisher that’s suited for oil fires (Class B or K).
6. Do not try to extinguish the fire with any cooking powders (flours, baking powder, etc.) or water as these won’t help extinguish the flames and could make it worse.
7. Do not try to move the burning pot or pan outside. 
8. Call a fire remediation specialist to help with any damage you experience.

Call SERVPRO for fire damage assistance

If your home experiences a fire of any kind, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to help with your fire remediation needs. We’re available 24/7 to help you with fire damage cleanup. Contact us at 602-386-4268.

SERVPRO Offers Water Remediation to Keep Your Business Open

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

If your business ever experiences water damage, there are a few techniques professionals such as SERVPRO uses to mitigate the problem with minimal interference to the business. Learn more about how SERVPRO offers water remediation services to keep your business open should you experience a water disaster.

How SERVPRO addresses water damage in commercial buildings

When your business experiences water damage from flooding caused by pipe bursts, monsoons, or other water source, the first and most important step is to secure the area, and then address the source of the water to stop further damage. The next step is to extract all the water from the structure as quickly as possible. SERVPRO's commercial water removal technicians then use equipment to dry the materials and contents inside the building. The final stage of the drying process is the cleaning and deodorization. After the structure gets secured and the source of the problem gets fixed, we begin the extraction process. We vacuum up as much water inside the building as possible while keeping your business open. If needed, we can extract water in small sections at a time so that we do not impede the business.

Our water removal equipment gets the job done
 

Depending on the water damage situation, various types of water removal equipment can be used to implement water remediation. In most cases, a truck-mounted extractor gets used, but in other situations, a portable one may be more efficient or less invasive during business hours if the business is still open and functioning. Depending on the surfaces affected, we use either lightweight extraction wands or heavy-duty extraction tools. If there are more than two inches of standing water present, a submersible pump gets used for pulling up the water. Upon final water removal, we then dry out the remainder of the moisture. We complete the drying process by creating the best environment to speed up the evaporation method.

What happens after water is removed
 

When technicians dry out a structure, different types of equipment are used depending on the situation. In most cases, air movers and dehumidifiers are implemented, using dry air from the dehumidifiers to circulate hot, dry air around the affected room. The drying process also sometimes gets completed a small section at a time so that only a portion of your business is blocked off or otherwise impacted. After moisture levels are reduced, the cleaning and deodorization stage takes place. We make sure that your business remains lean and odor-free, and moisture is at a level so that no mold grows as a result of the water damage.

Work with SERVPRO for your commercial water remediation needs

There’s never a convenient time for flooding or water damage to strike your business. 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. For help from the experts, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 24/7.

Protecting Your Business from Summer Monsoons

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Severe storms, also known as monsoons, are a common threat to business property throughout the summer months in Arizona. Along with rain, thunder, and lightning, summer storms can also produce damaging, gusty winds. As a business owner, you may be worried about the danger that these storms can pose to your property. Major structural damage can be done by severe storms, with wind and flying debris shattering windows and pounding upon roofs. In order to avoid the hefty cost required to fix structural damage, it would be beneficial to develop a plan to utilize during emergencies that will limit the amount of damage imposed upon your business.

Being prepared before storms

Before you begin to formulate that plan, however, make sure that your business insurance coverage is up to date and adequate. Covering the expenses of any property damage caused directly by the storm, business insurance can lift much of the financial burden. Taking matters into your own hands, a regular examination of the condition of your business’ roof as well as removing debris left by past storms in your gutters can prevent the damage from worsening. Impact-resistant glass can also be installed in an effort to prevent windows from shattering and sending glass flying across the inside of your business, potentially in the path of valuables. If you do have any valuables located near windows, be sure to move them to safer areas during storms just in case windows shatter. Safer areas can include any place that is elevated above the floor and distant from windows. Finally, keep outdoor equipment safe by fastening it to something stable. These tips will help you recover more quicky from storm damage and lessen the loss, so remediation professionals can help quickly.

Know when monsoon storms are approaching

Monitoring weather forecasts during monsoon season is AZ is a beneficial practice, especially if your business is located in an area that regularly experiences severe weather or flooding, as you will know when to expect storms and be able to prepare for them. With these guidelines in mind, you can protect your business as best you can from severe monsoon storms throughout the summer.

Extra planning provides extra securing

When damage happens, many business owners are caught unaware, not knowing what to do, who to call, where shutoff valves are, etc. That’s way an emergency ready plan is an outstanding idea. Documenting such information like contact info, escape routes, shutoff valves and more can safe precious time and money when disaster strikes.

Call SERVPRO if you experience monsoon damage

If your business experiences monsoon damage, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to help get your business back to pre-storm condition quickly and professionally with our storm remediation services. We can be contacted 24/7 at 602-386-4268. Let us get your business back up and running with our trained technicians to help you recover when disaster strikes.

Work With Professionals to Clean Up Your Monsoon Flood Damage

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

The monsoon season throughout the Valley brings about violent storms that can compromise the structural integrity of many homes throughout the region. Once trees have fallen into roofs or through windows, or roof tiles or shingles have gotten ripped up with high winds, the integrity of your home is compromised and needs to be addressed. Another issue with monsoons is floods, which can cause significant damage to your home if it’s not addressed, including water damage as well as the potential for mold to grow. It’s important to work with professionals to clean up your monsoon flood damage to ensure it is addressed properly.

A company experienced in monsoon flood damage remediation

As a team that has been proudly serving the Phoenix area for many years, we have considerable experience with flood damage relief that can result during monsoons. We have a team of professionals that stays ready to handle these emergencies; IICRC-certified technicians and collective equipment that can help address not only homes impacted by flood waters, but large loss incidents that occur in the area with some of the larger square footage business properties that exist throughout the city. We have multiple contractors licensed through the state of Arizona that can respond alongside our rapid response team in the event of an emergency. These experienced professionals can work to provide temporary repairs for roofing and exposed areas like broken windows to prevent floodwater and direct rainfall from penetrating buildings. With these temporary repairs in place, our SERVPRO technicians can get to work on the necessary mitigation that can keep costs lower for our customers and reduce restoration time.

Addressing the damage done by floodwaters

Often damage has already occurred to the inside of a home by the time our technicians have arrived on the scene. We can work quickly to address the standing water or the saturation of exposed elements to prevent the need for demolition and reconstruction when possible. We’ll remove the water as quickly and as thoroughly as possible and discuss with you what items can be saved and what items need to be discarded due to excessive water damage. We’ll use ensure that there is no residual moisture that can cause mold growth, and we’ll address any odors that may develop with our odor removal and deodorization process. Rest assured that we have extensive water damage and storm restoration training that allows us to get your home or business back to normal quickly with our water restoration process.

Call us for flood remediation

Throughout monsoon season in Arizona, many homeowners should be prepared for the unpredictability of potentially violent storms that can leave their property facing flood damages. Our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix team can respond quickly to help with emergency repairs, 24/7 and effective mitigation the situation. Give our team a call anytime at (602) 386-4268.

Recovering From an Electronics Fire in Your Home

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

Many house fires are caused by electronics as they become more prevalent in houses across the country.  Since these electronics have become so commonplace for many people, we often forget basic safety habits that we should follow for these devices and how to keep our homes safe from the risks associated with electronics. Lacking safety may result in a house fire caused by electronics, and the recovery process can be tough for homeowners.

Guidelines to prevent electronics fires

All our gadgets need to be charged on a regular basis. Sometimes homeowners opt for convenience over safety but doing so may put your house at risk. Tablet and cell phone chargers need space for adequate air circulation, as they put off a fair amount of heat during charging cycles which must be dispersed with the right amount of ventilation, yet many people will put these chargers by their beds, or other flammable items. Electronics that are covered and not able to breathe can build up heat and lead to igniting a fire. The lithium-ion batteries in these devices have containers that are pressurized and can rupture if the temperature goes up too fast or melt if they are heated for a long time. Many people assume electronics fires are caused by bad chargers, but these fires can happen when devices are on a charger or not. Following basic safety rules can protect your home from a house fire. Fire damage in your Phoenix home from electronics is entirely avoidable with safety basics like keeping chargers clear of flammable items and allowing for sufficient air circulation.

If you experience an electronics fire at home

If you experience fire from an overheated cell phone, tablet, or other devices, there’s a lot of work to do once the flames are out. It’s best to leave the cleanup to the professionals at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix. We have the experience and training to know how to best clean up your home after a fire of any kind and understand the special challenges of fires caused by electronics.

Why are electronics fires so unique? Unlike burning wood or cloth, when electronics catch on fire, they release particles like those from burning plastics which become electrically charged. That means the particles can stick all over surfaces and can be a challenge to clean up effectively. At SERVPRO, we understand that because of ionization, cleaning up after an electronics fire takes special care to not only get rid of the smoke particles and get all surfaces clean again but to eliminate the pungent smell that accompanies burned plastics. Our highly trained technicians use advanced technology to clean your home, remove damaged electronics and devices, and tackle any odor issues to restore your home to pre-fire conditions. When a SERVPRO technician arrives on the scene, they’ll evaluate the damage situation and how best to clean it, providing you with a clear plan of action so you know exactly what to expect. We’re available 24/7 to help you recover from a fire caused by electronics.

If you experience an electronics fire, you can rest assured that your Phoenix home will be cleaned and restored by our staff thoroughly when you reach out to us at (602) 386-4268.

Lightning Strikes from Monsoons Pose Fire Danger

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Living in Arizona, we are no strangers to severe storms that are also known as monsoons.  From light sprinkles to high winds to dust storms to lightening, monsoons can bring the whole package and take even the most seasoned homeowners by surprise. Severe pop-up storms loaded with cloud-to-ground lightning are especially common during these monsoons. While any of the above can cause damage, lightning strikes are exceptionally dangerous as they can result in fire damage to your home. Learn more about how lightning strikes from monsoons pose fire damage, how to prepare and what to do if it happens to you.

What are monsoons in AZ?

Typically, the monsoon season in Arizona lasts between the months of June and September, bringing us our cool relief in the hot summer months. The long-term average rainfall in the state is 5.37 inches. As the monsoon arrives an increased threat of lightning comes with it. Lightning, accompanied by little rainfall, start many fires each year for homes, buildings, and outdoor areas. According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency) lightning causes over 22,000 fires each year.  The Insurance Information Institute states that lightning strikes cost roughly $900 million in homeowner’s insurance losses each year. 

How to be prepared and protect your home

There are some steps you can take to protect your home from lightning strikes:

• Use a home lightning protection system. This can include lightning rods, main conductors, grounds, bonds, or surge protectors.
• Unplug electronics and appliances.
• Install surge protectors/surge suppressors.
• Be sure to check your insurance policy to make sure you have coverage for damage caused by lightning.

What to do if your home experiences lighting-related fire damage

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first. Here are a few tips to keep you safe while you wait for SERVPRO’s fire remediation specialists to arrive on the scene:

• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform until help arrives.
• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

Once the pros at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix show up, you’re in good hands! We offer a range of effective restorative tactics, including debris removal and emergency board up or tarping by our contracting division. Our licensed contractors can also oversee the reconstruction and renovation of your property once fire mitigation is complete. Our technicians focus on every damaging effect throughout your property from air quality concerns to soot and smoke residue removal. We offer comprehensive restoration from the initial inspection through the final walkthrough to make the process more efficient and cost-effective for our customers.

We hope that you are never faced with fire damage, but if you are, remember SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is available 24/7 to help.Our IICRC Certified technicians have years of experience in the field and the training to handle any fire damage situation.  Call us if you experience a lightning strike that causes fire damage to your home. Call us at 602-386-4268 to help you recover from a lightning fire in your home.

SERVPRO Can Assist with a Biohazard Cleanup in Your Home

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Some kinds of cleanup simply need to be left to professionals. Because of the nature of the substances from biohazardous situations and the training needed to eliminate them safely, the aftermath of criminal activity in your home requires professional attention. SERVPRO is well trained, and our equipment designed to help you through this catastrophe.

Our crime scene cleanup experts can help

If you experience a crime in your home that needs cleanup in the aftermath, our crime scene cleanup experts can handle it efficiently and professionally. Whether a traumatic injury or death results in the need for blood or other bodily fluid removal or vandalism or drug activity occurs in your home while you’re away, we are ready to restore your home and your peace of mind.
 

Why professional cleanup is necessary

Even if the biohazardous materials left behind are minimal, the pathogens possibly present when blood and other fluids are present must be removed following safety and health codes. OSHA, Environmental Protection Agency, and local health inspection agencies require that certain procedures be employed. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix ensures that all our employees responding to your home are fully certified and experienced in this specialized restoration area.
 
If drugs such as synthetic narcotics and opioids or methamphetamines are involved at a crime scene, do not expose yourself or your family to these risks. Let our SERVPRO biohazard cleanup experts clear your home of these and other dangerous substances.
 
Police efforts during the event may contaminate your home with irritants such as tear gas or pepper spray. Evidence-gathering materials can stain and damage surfaces, fixtures, and furnishings. SERVPRO crews use cleaning products and methods to eradicate these residues. Deodorization strategies are sometimes necessary to return your home to its pre-crime condition as well.

We’re here for all your biohazard cleanup needs

The decontamination of a home due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience are 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
• Meth lab cleanup

If you experience a situation that requires biohazard cleanup in your home, we pledge to be there for you and your family on all levels as we help during this challenging time.

Contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix for your biohazard cleanup needs. We are available 24/7 at (602) 386-4268.

Steps to Recovering from Storm Damage

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

As monsoon season approaches, it’s good to have a reminder of what you should do should your home experience storm damage.

Take inventory

Taking inventory of the storm damage needing repairs is your first step. Remember that most insurance companies cover damages from the storm over the entire property, not just the structure on the property. Not all insurance companies support this, but it’s better to document all damages just in case yours does. Check with your insurance agent to understand your coverage so you’re well-versed ahead of time.

Document the damage

Document any damages from the storm to the outside of the entire house like the walls, windows, doors, gutters, roof, any major structural elements of the house. Look around the entire property including the front and backyards, the side yard, storage areas, garage, and any equipment kept outside. Document and take pictures of any damages you find. Be sure to visually examine any damages to any power or gas lines and anything else that serves power and water to the building but only do so visually; leave in-depth examination to the professionals.

Call your insurance agent

Once you’ve documented what needs to be repaired from the storm damage, call your insurance agent. More than likely your insurance company will take the time to open a claim, but all insurance companies run differently with different processes and policies that need to be adhered to have a successful claim. Again, planning ahead is your best bet so know the answers to these questions well before you need to place an insurance claim:

1. What are all the terms of the insurance policy regarding storm damage repairs?
2. What is the deductible on the storm damage repair and the caps?
3. Does the insurance company have authorized vendors that you must contact, or are you able to contact your own storm damage repair company?

Contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix

If the insurance policy allows you to reach out to your own storm damage repair company, call one you trust. A leader in the industry like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix that has a vast amount of experience repairing storm damage done to both the interior and exterior of properties is your best bet. We are licensed, bonded, and certified and our techs are well trained and very empathetic to those experiencing all kinds of disasters. So, after taking precautions to prevent future storm damage and you still fall victim, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help you out. We are available 24/7 with an immediate response, so call us at 602-386-4268.

Addressing Air Quality in Your Home After a Fire

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke damage and odor can often be challenging aftermath to contend with after a house fire. After the flames are extinguished and cleanup started, there are often lingering odors that can be tough to get rid up. A professional fire remediation company can not only help with fire damage cleanup, but odor issues as well to help restore the air quality in your home.

When cleaning up isn’t enough

Much of the cleanup and restoration when it comes to air quality in your home focus on cleaning and fire smoke odor removal. Indoor air quality is a focus for our SERVPRO® professionals send out to your home once firefighters have left. We work quickly to utilize purification equipment such as air scrubbers and hydroxyl generators to run your home’s air through HEPA filters over time to begin pulling smoke particles and soot from the environment and reducing odors. Odor elimination is never an afterthought with our technicians. We know that a simple cleanup isn’t enough to address air quality and lingering odors after a fire.

What kind of smoke impacts odors after a fire?

Smoke damage often depends on the type of smoke that affected your home throughout the fire. Dry smoke results from high heat, but the residue is easier for SERVPRO technicians to clean with dry and wet sponges on the coated surfaces. On the other hand, wet smoke leaves a thick residue on surfaces and contents, which often requires specialized equipment to clean and deodorize fully. The heat generated by a house fire plays a key role in the actual penetration of soot particles into porous materials like drywall and fabrics. Addressing these helps eliminate odors in a home.

We leave your home odor-free when we’re through

Improving the scent of your home after a fire is a concern for our team. Waiting for deodorization allows our technicians to leave your home completely cleaned and odor-free so we do the most thorough job possible because we know remediation includes not only fire damage cleanup, but the residual soot and odors. Our thermal foggers can often do the greatest amount of deodorization, as these machines are suitable to use in open areas, fabrics, soft materials, and work to remove odors from surfaces as well. Our technicians use their expertise to address the air quality situation and remove odors.

Smoke can provide many damaging effects to your home after a fire emergency, including tough odors that impact air quality. Our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix response team has the expertise and tools to help. Give us a call today at 602-386-4268.

What to Know if You Experience a House Fire

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

House fires are devastating. It’s important to do everything possible to keep your home and family safe and know what to do if you do grapple with a house fire. Here are a few key fire safety tips to keep in mind, and what you should expect afterward.

Make a point to inspect your home’s smoke detectors often.

Smoke detectors are critical to fire safety and should be installed in every bedroom and on every floor of your home. While many suggest annually changing the batteries in detectors, homeowners should also do a routine check to ensure they are operational, and replace them every ten years or as directed by the manufacturer. Whether they’re battery-operated or hard-wired, these more regular checkups can help keep your home safe.

Create a family fire escape plan. 

People can become inundated when a home fire breaks out. Creating an evacuation plan for the event of a house fire starting is a great way to ensure everyone in your household will know exactly what to do and can act efficiently if a fire breaks. Plan out your exit routes, meeting locations, and any special provisions your family members may need. Assign one person specific tasks such as gathering pets or contacting family members not in the home to make sure everyone is protected and communication stays consistent.

Don’t leave flames unattended. 

Since open flames are common in homes, many people forget the significant dangers they can pose. Whether it is from a cooktop or candle, a flame can spread to other surfaces in an instant, which is why it is critical to never leave any flame unattended for any length of time ever. Curious pets and children can easily cause a fire if left unattended. Always extinguish all flames when you’re not in the room. Always.

Putting out the flames can cause water damage

When a fire happens, it’s important to get the flames out quickly. Unfortunately, extinguishing flames can bring damage on its own. Firefighters whose sole purpose is to battle flames will do whatever it takes to stop the fire, which often includes an excessive amount of water. Though the fire gets extinguished, water damage is a real issue to be dealt with. Soaked furniture, carpeting and other belongings need professional attention. Along with soot and possible chemicals left behind by firefighters, water can be a huge problem. It’s important to work with professionals who understand not only fire damage remediation but water damage remediation to help you recover from the water left behind.

Failing to address water can lead to other issues

Homeowners may feel that water is the least of their worries but unfortunately, if the water left behind is not addressed properly and thoroughly, you may end up with mold and odor issues in addition to damaged property. SERVPRO professionals use special equipment to extract water thoroughly and then address any property damaged by water.

Be prepared should a fire break out

No one wants to contemplate the possibility of a fire, let alone the damage caused by the water used to extinguish the flames, but you need to have a plan on what to do if a fire breaks out and how to handle the aftermath. In addition to all that’s mentioned above, think about what you’ll need to do once the fire is extinguished and you’re facing water damage in addition to fire damage. It’s important to contact a water remediation company to assist with the damage left behind from extinguishing smoke and flames. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has a staff of trained professionals to assist you in this time of need. We’re available 24/7 to help you recover. Call us if you experience any kind of disaster at 602-386-4268.

We’re Here When Phoenix Homeowners Need Remediation Services

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

No one plans on needing remediation services for their home, but it’s good to know who to turn to if you experience a disaster of any kind. We know that homeowners have options when it comes to choosing a restoration and remediation service for their home. Few companies match the experience and skill of our highly trained staff of professionals when it comes to fire, water, storm or mold damage. Learn why SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is the best number to have on hand should disaster strike.

Our certifications

SERVPRO does a comprehensive job of training every technician from the moment they join the team. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, the SERVPRO of Central Phoenix staff is armed with the knowledge to restore your home and help you recover from any disaster you may experience. Our technicians get the training that certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water and fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses. This level of training ensures that your home gets the attention that it needs to recover from any incident that occurs.

Additional SERVPRO training

In addition to IICRC training, our staff of professionals also can go through additional employee certification training including:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

This all supplements the initial 15-day training our techs receive upon joining SERVPRO of Central Phoenix. The course at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. This course covers many restoration topics including:

• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
• Mold Mitigation

Continuing professional development

The training for our technicians is ongoing. We offer web-based training and continuing education classes in water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, understanding mold in the restoration industry, restorative drying for loss control, and mitigation awareness response. We do everything we can to ensure our customers are getting the absolute best there is when it comes to disaster recovery services.

We're here for your remediation needs

When you suffer a loss to your Phoenix home, contact SERVPRO to get services from highly trained professionals that are available 24/7 to respond to any need that you may have. Call us today at 602-386-4268 to learn more about us.

Tips to Prepare for the Upcoming Monsoons in AZ

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

Upcoming monsoon storms will leave behind plenty of local storm damages so preparing your home or commercial property beforehand makes perfect sense. The microbursts tend to uproot trees of any size and carry outside furniture and play equipment down to another neighborhood. We’ve listed a few top things you can do to protect your property from the monsoon local storm damages.

Secure Trees to Prevent Storm Damages

One of the most common hazards that occurs during a monsoon storm is the uprooting of trees along with heavy branches being ripped off tossed about. Not only can this cause more damages to your property, but it can also cause some serious danger if nearby power lines are affected. Be sure that all your smaller or newly planted trees are double staked. You want them loose enough to give enough room for the tree to bend with the gusty winds, but secure enough to prevent them from being ripped out of the ground or broken off by powerful winds. You should also trim the more mature trees to eliminate the branches that are thinner so that the limbs will have less weight.

Check All Windows and Doors for Sealing

Go through your home and inspect all the windows and doors for any spaces or gaps where water and dirt can seep through. If you see any space within the frames where the seal is, it’s time to replace that weather stripping. Be meticulous because even the smallest amount of water will come in and cause mold which can spread around and will require professional mold remediation and removal. Replacing the weatherstripping will also prevent the dust from getting inside and settling on all the furniture, floors, and carpet. Prevention goes a long way here!

Inspect Your Roof

Get up on your roof and look for any loose shingles or tiles before the storm season begins. This should be done regularly throughout the monsoon season. Strong storm winds often displace shingles and tiles which leave the property vulnerable to the storm elements that could cause even more damages.

Check Drainage Patterns Surrounding Your House

In the past, have you ever noticed any issues with the drainage patterns which causes all the water to collect into pools? If you have, get that professionally addressed before the storms come. Protecting your investment from any potential water damages is obviously in your best interest.

Make Room in the Garage Before the Monsoon

Unsecured items outside of your property leave everyone at risk. The monsoon winds can be extremely powerful, capable of picking up objects from the ground, carrying them somewhere else. Just make sure to clear away enough space in your garage to put bicycles and whatever else you may have unsecured on your property, like patio furniture or pool toys. If microbursts can uproot large trees, knock down brick walls, and carry trampolines down the street then they can easily swipe your furniture and other items, potentially causing even more local storm damage.

We're always here to help with storm damage

Regardless of how careful you are, life still happens, and there will still be some flooding and storm damages each year. That is why SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is here if it happens to your home. Available 24/7/365 for any emergency disaster! Contact us at 602-386-4268. Our technicians are highly skilled, well-trained and are here to help if you experience any local storm damages during this upcoming monsoon season.

We Do the Job Others Don’t Want to Do: Biohazard and Crime Scene Cleanup

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

The aftermath of a crime needs a cleanup to help bring a home back to normal. When something as difficult as a crime occurs that causes a biohazard situation, only a specially trained disaster restoration company is certified to complete this necessary cleanup job. SERVPRO offers this critical service in our community, doing the job many other companies don’t do or aren’t professionally trained to do.

What to do after a crime occurs

It can be overwhelming for a homeowner when a traumatic event occurred in your home. After authorities leave the crime scene, there may be a biohazard situation that still needs to be addressed. Because of the nature of the cleanup, this should be done by professionals. It’s important to arrange for a biohazard cleanup  of your home. SERVPRO’s trauma and crime scene cleanup technicians can assist with this task, following all federal, state, and local rules to keep both residents and work crew members safe until the job is complete. The procedure used to clean and disinfect surfaces contaminated is prescribed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). SERVPRO ensures that all technicians responding to crime scene cleanup have the appropriate training and certifications. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is well-versed in these procedures to ensure a thorough cleaning of your home after a crime or other biohazard situation has occurred.
 

How biohazard cleaning is done

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 are key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances. We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include:

• Crime scene residues
• Suicide/death accidents
• Homicide cleanups
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup
• Meth lab cleanup

The SERVPRO crime scene teams manage this cleanup, taking care to leave your home as close to pre-situation as possible. Throughout any crime scene cleanup, our employees demonstrate respect and empathy to those returning to the home. Compassionate and committed to doing their best, crime scene technicians take pride in the services they offer you.

Contact SERVPRO if you need assistance with biohazard cleanup
 

Should you experience a crime or other trauma in your home and need biohazard cleanup, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268. Our highly trained, professional, and compassionate team of professionals are here to serve you 24/7.

Is Your Apartment Safe from Water Damage? Not if You Have Neighbors!

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Whenever moisture makes its way into your apartment, there is a possibility that your unit can get negatively affected, resulting in water damage. Many times, your apartment can suffer from water damage without you even noticing it, because the source is actually coming from your neighbor’s apartment!

When water damage happens to your apartment

Moisture can soak into your unit from other apartments, and you might not even realize it. Unfortunately, if you don’t spot the damage right away, it can get worse. Wet materials in other parts of the building can cause humidity to rise inside the entire complex. Humidity can cause water damage issues with your apartment’s contents and building materials even if nothing inside your unit comes into direct contact with moisture. It may be as minor as simply experiencing a mold or mildew odor in your apartment. However, if the water continues to seep and ultimately enters your apartment, more damage can be done.

How to tell if you have water damage

As mentioned above, unseen water damage is often noticed because of the presence of a moldy odor. Upon further inspection, you may find additional damage, such as small mildew spots on walls or ceilings, slightly buckled walls, floors or ceilings, or other stains. If the water leak is actually in your own apartment, a loss of water pressure or hot spots on your floor may indicate a water pipe leak. If you experience any of these, or otherwise suspect water damage, it’s best to call in the pros.

Call SERVPRO for water damage issues

If you know there is a plumbing failure inside your building or even suspect you or your neighbor has water issues; it is wise to call in the professionals at SERVPRO. Our highly trained team can tell you if there is water damage inside your apartment unit. Our technicians are trained to be able to tell if excessive moisture has affected your dwelling or not. We know where to look and how to check for problems. Through the combination of training and experience, we can tell you whether there is an issue inside your home. Our SERVPRO technicians use their extensive training achieved by their completion of IICRC certification programs to determine where moisture could have entered your apartment unit. We know how water travels through a structure as well as we know how buildings get built so that we have a good idea of how liquid moves through your apartment complex. Once we get a good idea of where moisture could be, we utilize advanced technology to determine the moisture content of your structural components and personal possessions.  

If you ever hear about a water leak taking place in an apartment unit near yours, then call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 for fast 24/7 service. Address the water damage before it gets worse, call in the water damage remediation experts today!

Fast Response to Home Fire Damage Saves Costs

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

One of the important factors that can impact how costly a home fire can be when it comes to repairs and restoration is how fast a team of damage mitigation professionals can get to the scene and control the situation. A company that takes too long to respond to a disaster can have costly results. People nationwide trust SERVPRO franchises and technicians to arrive at their homes quickly and prevent as much damage as possible thanks to a few key advantages we have. Learn why a fast response to home fire damage can save money.

How we arrive faster

SERVPRO crews can arrive within just a couple of hours of your first call reporting fire damage to your home. We keep our fire damage remediation specialists on standby 24/7 to react quickly if called upon and make sure every disaster gets treated with the standards of speed and thoroughness that we have established nationwide. Whenever you call, a live representative will take your call and immediately begin the fire remediation response process to send help to your home quickly.

Why does a fast response time matter?

The benefits of readiness in our technician team pay off for our clients. Many damaging effects of a fire, such as smoke residues and water-mixed sludges, can cause severe damage over time to your home through chemical reactions with building materials, deep staining, and many other effects. People often are so overwhelmed by having experienced a fire that they delay calling for remediation help, either because they don’t know who to call or try to do the cleanup themselves. It’s always recommended that you call fire remediation specialists who know how to handle the damage caused by fire and do so quickly. By arriving fast, we can target the most pressing damaging factors first and stop them from causing any further problems in your home. The result is a faster clean-up time, fewer materials replaced, and a lower final bill. We follow a very specific remediation process, keeping the customer in the loop for the entire process to ensure we’re working together to get your home back to preloss conditions.

Call us immediately if you experience a home fire

We understand that home fires are devastating, and immediately after a fire, times are confusing and overwhelming. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is a locally owned and operated company with national resources that enable us to handle any variety of fire damage quickly and with minimal costs. We will work closely with you to handle all your remediation needs. Call us at (602) 386-4268 to learn more about or request our services.

Is Your Business Practicing Good Fire Prevention?

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Fire can be devastating to businesses large and small. Did you know that sixty to eighty percent of businesses never recover from commercial building fire damages in Phoenix? It’s vital to protect your business and to do that, keeping up with the latest fire code is necessary. Be sure your business is practicing good fire prevention with these steps.

Preventing building fire damages by following the fire code

The Phoenix fire code is updated each year. The Phoenix Fire Code, based on the International Fire Code, provides minimum fire and life safety standards for buildings, processes, and fire protection equipment installations in the City of Phoenix. The Code is a companion code to the International Codes which were adopted by the City of Phoenix Planning and Development Department establishing the construction requirements for all development in the City of Phoenix. ??Too many owners of commercial property fail to update the fire prevention system they have in place when these updates are made but it’s important to stay informed and in code for your safety.

Code violations that are common among commercial property owners include:

• Failure to install sprinklers within buildings that now require them.
• Failure to install fire alarms where they are now required.
• Failure to update fire prevention equipment to comply with structural changes to the property such as signs, extinguishers, and fire department hookups.
• Failure to maintain fire exits up to code standards.

How to ensure you’re following the fire code to keep your business safe

The common violations listed above are simple to avoid considering the potential alternative and should be taken more seriously. If you’re unsure how to follow these basics, contact your local Phoenix Fire Department and request to have a firefighter come to visit, prior to the official inspector, and educate you on the fire hazards in your commercial property as well as any violations that exist. This will help keep your business protected from fire and within code.

What happens if you experience a fire

Unfortunately, regardless of safeguards that may be put in place fires still happen, leaving significant dame. When that happens property owners call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix for our fire mitigation and restoration services. We also provide reconstruction for structures when needed as well. Fire remediation can help restore your commercial property to pre-fire condition, but it’s important to act fast to get fire remediation specialists out as quickly as possible to address the damage. If you find yourself dealing with commercial property fire damages, trust in SERVPRO and our professional fire remediation services that we’re known for. With immediate emergency service 24/7, call 602-386-4268 and our trained fire technicians will be there to restore your commercial property damaged by fire.

How to Get Rid of Soot After a Home Fire

2/17/2021 (Permalink)

House fires can cause a lot of damage, and not all of it comes from the flames. Even the smallest of fires in a kitchen can cause some serious damage. You may suffer from extensive soot damage, which can be a challenge to clean up. Here are a few tips on getting rid of soot after you experience a fire in your home.

What is soot?

Soot, also referred to as lampblack or carbon black, is a fine black powder that can be sticky and is a product of incomplete combustion. It can be messy and can leave a foul smell. During a fire, soot can spread to the whole house, attaching to several surfaces. The acidic properties of soot can damage your home and belongings if the soot is not removed immediately and effectively.

Do all fires result in soot?

Most of the materials used for the construction of your home can catch fire and allow it to spread throughout the structure. This means you will likely experience some level of soot in your home after a fire, regardless of how big or small the fire is. While you might be enticed to clean up the soot on your own, cleanup is best left to cleanup professionals, as it can be more difficult to completely clean than you might anticipate.

Call in fire clean-up specialists

Most often the sizable effects that stand out from a house fire of any kind are smoke and soot damages. This is common and can prove challenging to remove without the right equipment.  Fortunately, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix professionals have the tools and expertise to help you through soot damages throughout your household. While the most concentrated of this effect can get found around the fires originating point where it burned the longest debris and film from the combustion leaves a dark, often black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials in other places too. That is soot. Unless the fire didn’t spread at all and was quickly extinguished, it’s time to call fire clean-up specialists, or those skilled in fire damage remediation, to help with clean-up.

How is soot be removed? 
 

Removing soot residue requires various approaches. For wall surfaces, scrubbing with wet and dry sponges can often remove the bulk of the present film. Confined spaces like ductwork require high-powered vacuums to get used instead. SERVPRO can assist in cleaning ductwork. Smoke damage often presents itself in the form of a harsh odor remaining in fabrics, carpeting, and open spaces throughout affected areas of your house. Removal of this odor usually requires thermal fogging to break apart odor molecules and leave no noticeable scent behind. Our highly trained technicians will know exactly what to do to address the soot throughout your home and get it back to normal.

If you suffer a home fire, regardless of the extent of damage, it is a good idea to contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to help with all your fire damage remediation needs, including addressing soot. We can be reached 24/7 at 602-386-4268. We’re here to help 24/7 with your remediation needs!

Minimizing Damage to Your Home After a Flood

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

If your home experiences a significant water issue such as a burst pipe, the first step most homeowners take is to do whatever is needed to stop the water. This keeps damage at a minimum, which is a wise move, but here are a few more tips to minimize damage to your home after a flood.

Pick up or move any items that can be impacted by water

If there are rugs or carpets in the flooded area that you can pick up, remove them as quickly as possible. If possible, you may want to take them outside and drape them over something sturdy to let the water drain out. Water can do a significant amount of damage in a short amount of time, especially to items that have color of any kind. Shoes, bags, area rugs, pet gear, books, or magazines, should all be picked up and moved. Most things can hang to dry and won't suffer significantly from water damage if addressed quickly. If any items that are perishable in nature are flooded, it’s best to simply dispose of the item to prevent the risk of contamination. This includes chew toys, pet food, or anything that is quickly impacted by water.

Get as much water as you can up until help arrives

Once the floor is clear, you can concentrate on getting up some of the standing water until help arrives. A handful of towels or a mop may be enough to get the mess under control, or you may want to use a shop vacuum if you have one. While the SERVPRO water remediation team will be able to help with water cleanup, the sooner you can remove standing water, the better, until professionals arrive with equipment suited to extract all water from the home.

Prop up furniture and other larger unmovable items

Some larger items impacted by water may not be able to get moved out of the water impacted area by the homeowner. If that’s the case, there are still steps you can take to minimize the damage until SERVPRO arrives. Use aluminum foil or small wooded blocks to raise furniture up off of wet floors, especially if it's carpeted to minimize damage. By doing this, you're protecting your furniture from prolonged water exposure and possibly reducing the risk of discoloration of carpeting. Whatever you can do to get larger pieces as much out of standing water as possible will help. Wipe down any wood furnishing that have become damp to potentially minimize warping.

Water damage in a home is always unexpected. Act fast to stop the water flow, then call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at 602-386-4268 to help with water remediation.  We’re available 24/7 to help with any water emergency you may have and will respond quickly to your call. These few activities while you wait for help to arrive can make a difference in keeping damage to a minimum.

How to Prepare for Severe Storms to Stay Protected

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

Typically, Phoenix has severe storms during monsoon season, but this year has been anything but “typical”. With unusual storm patterns of late, it’s good to be prepared. Extreme winter weather often increases the risk of storm damage. A snowstorm or even the presence of graupel can bring extreme cold, ice, and high winds. Keep yourself, your business, and your employees safe by having a plan to respond to severe winter weather in place before it occurs.

Know the risks related to storms

Slick and icy roads, blowing hail or pelting rain, and decreased visibility all raise the likelihood of weather-related damage to homes and businesses, including a loss of power or downed lines. While it may be tempting to go outside and address those issues yourself, the best plan is to stay inside, and stay off the roads whenever possible. Those storm-related issues can be addressed once the storm resides, so don’t risk further damage or personal harm by trying to fix anything during a storm.

Prevent damage or keep it at a minimum

When water freezes, it expands, often leading to an unexpected pipe burst. To minimize the chance of this happening during an exceptionally freezing storm like we’ve experienced recently, make sure your pipes are properly insulated. Inspect the pipes seasonally to check for any leaks or loss of integrity. Plan ahead and have a list of trusted and reliable plumbers, electricians, and storm restoration specialists to call when you need help. Researching these trained professionals before you need them will speed up the process of any repairs if you do suffer damage after a storm. It will also decrease wait time until help arrives which can help minimize further damage.

Keep employees home

While many businesses are working from a work-from-home model, not all businesses are able to do that, and therefore have employees in the office. Watch the news and pay attention to all storm warnings and emergency alerts during severe winter weather to see if it makes sense to have your employees stay home versus driving into work under adverse conditions. This will keep them off the roads and away from the associated risks that go along with driving during winter storms. If your business experiences significant storm damage, call in storm remediation specialists to assess the damage, as it may be extensive enough to have to keep employees away until the damage is fixed.

A snowstorm can be frightening, especially for those of us who really aren’t used to having to deal with snow, hail, and the damage it brings. Being aware of the dangers they carry is important to keep your property safe. If you do experience damage from a storm, call the pros at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at 602-386-4268 to help get the damage addressed as quickly as possible.

Got Mold? Don’t Try to Handle it on Your Own

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Moisture can get into your home in a variety of ways, from storm damage leaks to water pipes bursting to a slow, undetected drip from a pipe. Homeowners may want to address the situation themselves, but it is best to leave mold remediation to the experts. Should you see signs of mold in your home, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to take care of the situation before it gets worse.

Not all mold is visible.

One of the most important reasons to call a professional mold remediation service for mold damage to your home is that the issue can’t be fixed without professional intervention. The impacted area must be dried, cleaned, sanitized, and possibly repainted or rebuilt if the mold infestation was significant enough to cause some real damage. Even when mold appears to be gone, it’s not, and if not cleaned thoroughly and completely, mold spores can continue to grow and spread to other parts of your home causing more damage and unwanted musty odors. No one wants that! 

Why cleaning mold on your own is not enough to get the job done.

Trying to eliminate mold damage yourself can be injurious to the home, rather than helpful. Even if you remove all visible signs of mold growth in your home, it’s almost impossible to get rid of airborne spores and hidden patches of growth without advanced tools that professionals use. SERVPRO uses advanced moisture detection tools to identify patches of mold behind walls and surfaces that can’t be seen on the surface, and air scrubbers to filter as many spores out of the environment as possible. Also, keep in mind that you really can’t remove mold altogether. Since microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, indoors, and outdoors, removing all mold from a home is impossible. Remediation is what keeps mold growth at bay, which in turn prevents mold damage.

Moldy smells mean there’s a problem.

After the mold has been addressed, the musty odor it causes can remain if not addressed as well. These odors won’t likely go away on their own. SERVPRO technicians use industrial-strength chemical fogging machines to defuse odor molecules, even if they are embedded deep within the walls, floors, or other materials of your home. When mold appears in your home, SERVPRO mold remediation professionals will:

• Inspect and assess mold damage.
• Suppress the mold.
• Implement air filtration.
• Remove mold and mold-infested materials, if applicable
• Clean mold-impacted contents in your home

There is more to cleaning mold than simply wiping it off surfaces, which is why mold remediation is best left to the professionals of SERVPRO versus trying to handle it on your own. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is the leading provider of mold damage remediation services. For our expert help with mold in your home, give us a call at (602) 386-4268. We’re available 24/7 and will work with you to address your mold issues. Call the pros when you get mold!

Keep Your Sump Pump Maintained to Protect Your Basement from Water Damage

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Though common in other parts of the country, Arizona doesn’t have many homes with basements. However, there are homes that offer this feature but because it’s not common, many homeowners are unfamiliar with sump pumps, how they work, and how to maintain them. It’s important to keep your sump pump maintained to protect your basement from water damage. Here are a few tips on what to look for and what to do.

Power Failure

Your primary sump pump is no different than any other appliance in your home; without power, it is completely worthless.  As a safeguard, invest in a high-quality battery back-up sump pump to protect your basement should there be a power failure.   A battery kept continually charged by the backup system operates a separate pump linked to the discharge pipe, providing you hours of protection until power is restored. Some backup pumps even monitor the condition of the battery and alert you when it needs to be replaced.

Discharge Pipe Issues

If the discharge pipe is not installed or pitched properly, water will collect and eventually cause a blockage. Arizona has very hard water and it can cause sump pumps to freeze up if the flow is impeded in any way. Be sure to check and make sure your sump pump and discharge pipe were correctly installed. If you’re unsure, call a professional to check it for you.

Stuck Pump Float Switch

There are several different types of sump float switches.  Vertical and tethered floats are the most common. It’s important to know which one you have, as vertical floats seem to work the best as tethered floats are known for getting stuck on the sidewalls of the sump pit, causing a flooded basement. Take the time to find out what float switch you have to protect your basement from future water damage from a flood.

Under-Powered Sump Pump

There are a variety of sump pumps available, each appropriate for different applications.  Make sure your sump pump has the correct horsepower pump, capable of keeping up with your flow of water. If you’re unsure if the existing pump you have is adequate, call in a professional to check for you.  

Outdated Sump Pump

It is generally recommended that sump pumps should be replaced every five to seven years in order to be effective. If you purchase a home with an existing sump pump, be sure to find out how old the sump pump itself is, and keep the five-year mark in mind to protect your basement from flooding should the sump pump fail.

In general, sump pumps are very effective at keeping basements from flooding, but should you experience a flood in your basement, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at 602-386-4268. We’re available 24/7 to help with your water remediation needs.

SERVPRO’s Commercial Restoration Services Can Assist Businesses in a Disaster

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Homeowners all over the country are aware of the professional restoration services offered by SERVPRO, from fire damage restoration to water or flood restoration to mold remediation. Did you know that SERVPRO can assist businesses during a disaster too? We offer commercial restoration services for businesses large and small. See how we can help your business should you experience a disaster.

Commercial water damage restoration services

Floods and other water damage can really impact a business. Excessive water can cause a business to close until the property is back to normal, which can cost a business a lot of money waiting for things to be restored back to pre-flood times. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

Commercial fire damage restoration services

Even the smallest of fires can cause big headaches for businesses. First, you have to get the flames extinguished. Even after the fire is out, there is a lot of damage that needs to be addressed, whether its damage causes by flames, soot or smoke, or the remains of the chemicals firefighters used to extinguish the flames. SERVPRO knows how important it is to restore businesses as quickly as possible to reduce the opportunity for more damage (like mold growth if moisture isn’t removed) as well as reduce the time a business is closed. We know that every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity, which is why we offer fast and professional commercial fire damage restoration services 24/7.

Disaster recovery team

Aside from fire, water, floods, and mold, SERVPRO offers a complete disaster recovery team for businesses. This team can service a single location or locations across the country. The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is comprised of our best of the best in restoration. Our highly trained large-loss specialists are qualified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster to help get businesses back on their feet as quickly as possible, regardless of the disaster. Every large loss is supervised to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. Our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor makes us uniquely qualified to help businesses during disasters. 

If your small business experiences any kind of disaster, contact the professionals at SERVPRO 24/7 at 602-386-4268 to get back in business quickly.

Don’t Panic If You Have Mold in Your Home; It’s More Common Than You Think

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

After a particularly wet storm season, or if a leaky pipe has gone unnoticed, mold can begin to grow in your home. Left unchecked, mold damage can cause significant damage to your property, and there is a need to prevent its growth or conduct remediation procedures aimed at mitigating the resulting damage. If you find that you have mold, don’t panic; you’re not alone in having mold in your home. Here’s what you need to know.

What causes mold?

The primary cause of mold damage in Phoenix is moisture. Without it, mold cannot grow, and that means the secret to controlling mildew growth lies in regulating the moisture content in your property. Our SERVPRO technicians understand that the dampness in your property can be because of indirect water intrusion, direct water intrusion, and intermittent intrusion. Keep in mind that mold spores are everywhere, inside and outside homes, so while mold can never be removed, it’s damage and growth can be mitigated.

How water impacts mold growth

Direct intrusion takes place when your roof or plumbing system leaks, your windows are poorly sealed, or water runs off from bathtubs and showers. Our SERVPRO team has the skills and resources to fix these issues, so it’s crucial to call professionals immediately to prevent further damage. Indirect water intrusion is rising damp. That can happen when moisture seeps up from underground, and your property ends up with wet concrete slabs, furniture, cabinets, or carpets.
Intermittent water intrusion may be condensation that results from inadequate ventilation, vaporizers, humidifiers, high humidity, and high steam. To lower the moisture content and improve air quality, we may set up dehumidifiers. The role of these devices is to extract that additional moisture from the air. Regardless of how the water intrusion happens, all can lead to mold growth.

How SERVPRO addresses mold remediation

The first step is to locate the water source and stop additional moisture from happening. Once we dry the wet areas and stop moisture entry, we address any materials that may have been damaged by mold. These materials can either be cleaned or need to be removed, depending on the extent of the damage. After that, we can perform deodorization. SERVPRO uses thermal foggers that emit deodorizing agents that have antimicrobial capabilities to reduce the chances of mold growth. SERVPRO is certified by IICRC to do mold remediation, and has the right tools, following state regulations when doing our work.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is a trusted industry leader in mold remediation, and we take pride in our highly trained technicians. If you experience mold growth in your home, know that it’s more common than you think. Don’t panic, call us at (602) 386-4268 and be offered proven mold remediation services.

Handling Ash and Soot Cleanup After a Home Fire

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Whenever a homeowner experiences a house fire, cleaning ash and soot residues becomes essential to get a home back to normal. Smoke created by a fire fills the house and leaves behind residue that’s difficult to clean. Soot residues discolor and ruin contents and building materials inside your house, which is why it’s important to address ash and soot cleanup after a home fire.

Replacing vs. cleaning damaged items

Replacing materials inside your home can get expensive, so cleaning items instead can save you money. SERVPRO's fire damage technicians in Phoenix use various approaches to cleaning during the mitigation process, depending on what is damaged by soot. The purpose of cleaning smoke-related damage is to restore the materials to the conditions they were before the fire.
Depending on the items, some cleaning methods work better in certain situations than others. The type of cleaning used depends on the kind of materials that got burned and the type of materials soot damaged.

Fundamentals of cleaning soot damaged items
 

There are four fundamental elements required to address residues so that they get removed effectively. The first element of cleaning is temperature. Heat increases the speed of chemical reactions in products. SERVPRO's restoration technicians always select the best temperature based on which chemical gets used and the material being cleaned. The next element is agitation. When soot-damaged materials get agitated, the residues get dislodged, and chemicals get distributed across the surface. When cleaning smoke-damaged surfaces, we agitate the surface with towels, brushes, air and water pressure, and sonic vibrations from ultrasonic machines. Soot residues also get cleaned through chemical action. Most chemicals get designed to cause a reaction with the soot, therefore assisting in its removal. The reactions that take place include dissolving, emulsifying, changing pH, oxidizing, bleaching, and digesting. The last element of cleaning is time. Most chemicals need time to appropriately react to the soot and work efficiently. The amount of time needed varies based on the product, type of residue and the kind of surface affected by soot.

Call the cleaning professionals if you experience a house fire

In most scenarios, soot gets cleaned the best by using a variety of elements and principles of cleaning. For professional help with cleaning residues call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 any time of the day. Our technicians will endeavor to restore all your possessions to pre-fire conditions to help you recover from the disaster of a house fire.

Water Remediation Services Can Keep Businesses Open After Water Damage

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Businesses large and small are all working hard to keep open during recent times, especially with the holidays right around the corner, so if water damage occurs, it can present a big problem as well as the possibility of closing while water damage is addressed. SERVPRO strives to extract water and clean up water damage while your business remains operational.

How SERVPRO professionals mitigate water damage issues in businesses

The first and most important step when water damage occurs in a business is to secure the area; safety is always a top priority. Keeping foot traffic and other personnel away from the water damage protects people and property. After the source of the water damage is addressed, whether it’s a broken pipe or flooded dishwasher, the next step taken is to extract all the water from the structure as quickly as possible. SERVPRO's commercial water removal technicians then use equipment to dry the materials and contents inside the business. The final stage of the drying process is the cleaning and deodorization.

Water extraction

After the building is secured and the source of the problem gets fixed, our trained technicians begin the extraction process. The goal of extraction is to vacuum up as much water inside the business as possible while keeping the business open. We can extract water in small sections at a time so that we do not impede foot traffic. Depending on the situation and extent of the flooding, various types of water removal equipment is used. In most cases, a truck-mounted extractor can address the water issue, but in other scenarios, a portable one is more efficient and less intrusive during business hours. Depending on the surfaces affected, we use either light-weight extraction wands or heavy-duty extraction tools to get the job done. Some extraction tools are heavy-duty extraction systems using the bodyweight of the machine operator to compress the carpet making it easier to vacuum up water.  If there are more than two inches of standing water present, a submersible pump gets used for pulling up the water more efficiently.

Drying out the business building
 

Upon final water removal, we then dry out the remainder of the moisture. We complete the drying process by creating the best environment to speed up the evaporation method. When technicians dry out a structure, different types of equipment are used depending on the situation. In most cases, air movers and dehumidifiers get set up in a way that uses dry air from the dehumidifiers to circulate hot, dry air around the affected room. The drying process also sometimes gets completed a small section at a time so that only a portion of your business is blocked off. Whenever possible, our trained professionals will endeavor to address the water problem while not being intrusive on the business operations.

Cleaning and deodorization of the property
 

After moisture levels return to preloss conditions, the final cleaning and deodorization stage takes place. We make sure that your business remains a clean, odor-free environment to continue to attract customers. For help from the experts if you experience water damage in your business, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 24/7 to get the help you need to stay open for business.

Professional Cleanup Service After a Crime in Your Home

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

The stress of dealing with criminal activity in your home can be traumatizing. Having to deal with the aftermath cleanup is best left to the experts. Since the substances in need of disposal are often dangerous or difficult for a layperson to manage, it is best to engage a professional service. SERVPRO offers compassionate and properly trained technicians to put your home back in order.

When the unimaginable happens

If the unthinkable happens and you experience a crime or other trauma in our home, know that there are professionals who can assist in the crime scene cleanup. Our trauma and crime scene abatement team knows and follows applicable Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and rules when cleaning and restoring your house. SERVPRO will come through on our promise to make it “Like it never even happened,” when it comes to crime scene cleanup. 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 Central Phoenix will respond immediately and has the specialized training, protective equipment, and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.

What SERVPRO can assist with

Damage from fights, debris from firearms or other weapons, bodily fluids from victims or perpetrators alike, and the whole gambit of police evidence gathering materials end up bagged and taken from your premises. Carpets cleaned, walls washed, holes filled in and touched up with paint go a long way to restoring a sense of control and peace even after disruptive or deadly force shatters your quiet enjoyment of your home. Here is a list of all the situations we can assist with to get your home back to normal after a crime occurs:

• Fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals
• Tear gas and pepper spray residues
• Fire extinguisher residue
• Blood, bodily fluids, and tissue remnants

 
SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has the training, technicians, and equipment to set you and your family on the path to trauma recovery. Call us at 602-386-4268 for fast, professional help from our kind, compassionate, and efficient team.

How to Deal with A Sewage Backup Problem

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

For homeowners and business owners alike, a sewer backup is an awful situation to deal with. The foul odors and the potential for extensive property damage are just the beginning of the problem. Cleanup requires a lot of time and hard work and is absolutely about as unpleasant as it gets. If you experience a sewage backup issue, learn what to do to get it handled correctly and safely.

The first steps when you experience sewage issues

Water from sewer system backups should be considered extremely dangerous. The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses. Special training and equipment are necessary to safely clean this type of contamination. Sewage water contains a lot of potentially harmful bacteria, so do the following should you experience a backup in your home or business:

• Respond to damage immediately by keeping the spread of sewage water to a minimum.
• Keep people and pets out of the affected area.
• Wear protective clothing and gear while in the area, even if you’re not directly attempting cleanup.
• Open windows or doors to provide adequate ventilation, but don't run the air conditioning system.

Whether the backup is the result of trouble in a public sewer line or a flooded toilet in your home or business, take the same precautions to control the damage. Before you do any sewer cleanup work, turn off the electrical power to the area. If the switch is anywhere near the water, wear rubber boots and gloves and use a wooden stick or spoon to flip the switch. NEVER touch any type of electrical outlet, switch, etc., if you’re standing in water! If you’re at all unsure, don’t touch!

Tips for sewage backup

There are several other actions you should follow when dealing with a sewer backup, regardless of the source:

• Don't use the water in your home or building until you've had a safety inspection. Turn off the running water for showers and toilets as well as in your kitchen or any other area with access to water faucets.
• Remove any uncontaminated belongings and furnishings from the area. If contaminated, better not to touch, but if you must, protective gear is a must.
• Alert city authorities to the backup if it appears to be a public sewer issue.
• Call water damage restoration technicians like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix who have the training and the tools to thoroughly clean and disinfect your home or building.
• Contact your insurance company and notify them of the sewage situation. Take pictures of the damage for insurance purposes before the belongings are cleaned or repaired.

How SERVPRO can help with sewage issues

Sewage cleanup can involve different types of challenges depending on the type of water flooding you experience. “Gray water” or “black water” should be handled by professionals who know how to deal with sewage cleanup and restoration. Sewage backup should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible to prevent damage and other issues. SERVPRO technicians are the water damage restoration specialists with specific training and expertise to safely restore your home or business. If you experience any kind of sewage issue, contact us 24/7 at 602-386-4268.

Can Your Fire Sprinkler System Cause Water Damage?

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Fire sprinkler systems in commercial buildings are a must to keep a building protected should a fire break out. However, many commercial buildings have outdated sprinkler systems that may cause more harm than good if not properly maintained and inspected. So many of the older buildings might remain in compliance with adequate sprinkler fixtures but fail to take into consideration the aging of these pipes and their ability to fail with time, causing water damage.

What happens when fire sprinkler systems age

First, it’s important to understand that not all fire sprinkler systems are the same. Some systems accommodate a force-fed water supply designed to quickly extinguish flames. That’s ideal for getting a fire out, but a rupture of the lines could cause a significant amount of damage.  Some of the older sprinkler systems did not get designed to be force fed water when there was no emergency in the building. Instead, when these pipes break or rupture, you are only emptying out the current contents of these pipes instead of an endless supply from your service lines. Even with this lessened condition, the network of fire prevention plumbing can contain a great volume of water. Aging pipes weaken, and connectors can go back. These and other conditions can lead to a fire sprinkler causing water damage.

Damage beyond just water

One of the biggest concerns beyond the substantial water damage for our SERVPRO team is the liquid itself coming from the pipes. It’s typical that the standing liquid in sprinkler systems is a mixture of water and an antifreeze solution. This chemical varies in thickness and color depending on the system, posing a considerable risk to anything housed in a commercial building. Unlike plain water, this liquid can cause staining, possible damage to materials, as well as possible odor, depending on the level and acidity of the antifreeze solution. That means that even for older systems that may not release a significant amount of water should it break; it can still cause damage.

What SERVPRO can do when a fire sprinkler system bursts

Should a sprinkler system fail, our SERVPRO technicians can get to work quickly on extracting the water and assessing the damage to fabrics, textiles, and carpeting in the commercial building throughout this process. This inspection guides our professionals towards additional cleaning approaches that might be necessary following the drying of the affected areas. Our trained water remediation specialists will focus on extracting the water, assessing the damage, and proposing a remediation solution for the best possible outcome.

Unfortunately, most commercial buildings don’t think about their fire sprinklers until something goes wrong. Making sure systems are functional enough to extinguish a fire isn’t enough. Systems need to be kept in good shape to avoid water damage as well. Even with best intentions, leaks and failures of sprinkler systems may happen. Fortunately, you can trust our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix restoration specialists to help you clean up your commercial property and get back to business as quickly as possible. Give us a call anytime at (602) 386-4268 to help you with all your water damage needs.

Protect Your Home from Fire with Smoke Alarms

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

While many homeowners know the value of smoke alarms and even have them installed in their homes, few take the time to make sure they’re professionally installed and in working order, which can render an alarm useless. You can protect your home from fire with smoke alarms. Learn more about them and your home to stay protected.

Why have a smoke alarm?

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury by providing early detection. It can also help minimize damage to your own by early detection of smoke and fire, allowing for faster reaction to the situation. The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Here are a few tips regarding smoke alarm installation, testing and maintenance:

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

Are smoke alarms enough to protect you?

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, including your family pets, to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation. Need help creating a fire escape plan? Red Cross put together a helpful fire escape plan that homeowners can use. While smoke alarms obviously can’t prevent a fire, early detection can protect your family’s safety, alerting them to get out of the home in case of fire, and possibly minimizing damage to the home by addressing the fire early.

What happens if you experience a fire?

When tragedy strikes and you experience a fire in your home, the first action is to exit the home quickly. Contact the fire department to extinguish the flames and then contact a fire remediation company like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to help address the damage done by fire, smoke and fire extinguishing materials used by the fire department. From structural concerns to worsening effects that demand efficient mitigation tactics, our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix IICRC-Certified fire and smoke restoration technicians can help. We’ll address the damage and endeavor to make your home look like it never happened, addressing property damage as well as odors to help restore your home.

If you experience a fire in your home, or have questions about fire, smoke, or soot damage, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268. We’re here 24/7 to help!

Prepare for Storms and Other Emergencies to Stay Safe

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

This year’s monsoon season ended up being called a “nonsoon” after the rains and winds we experienced were all but nonexistent. However, just because we dodged the damages of storms that never came this year, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t always be prepared for storms and other emergencies. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has pulled together a few ideas on how to be prepared and stay safe in storms and other emergencies.

Keep Emergency Kits on hand

There are many things you can do to prepare for a bad storm or other emergency.  One of these is to have aa Home Emergency Kit/Car Emergency Kit on hand.  These kits are usually a collection of basic household/automobile items that you will need in an emergency, whether it’s a bad storm, a fire, or any other unexpected emergency. Try to assemble your kit as soon as possible so that it will be ready in case of an emergency and don't forget to rotate new items in so when you need it there will not be expired or out-of-date items.  You can also purchase premade kits from The Red Cross or other resources.

Have an emergency plan prepared

Depending on the severity of a storm or other event, it may take some time for help to arrive. Services like electricity and phone might be cut off for over a week. Emergency plans should be prepared with this information in mind. In addition to your emergency kit, which should include flashlights, batteries, and water, make an overall emergency plan with your family. Determine a place to meet if you need to leave your home in a hurry. Assign each member of your home with a task to make sure everyone gets out safely, including pets. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix offers an Emergency Readiness plan for businesses, but households should have a plan as well.

Know who to call to help with storm damage

Should your home experience significant damage during a storm, know who you can contact quickly to come out and assess and repair the damage. SERVPRO offers storm damage cleanup and restoration. With 24-hour emergency services offered, we’re “faster to any disaster”, with our highly trained technicians ready to help. Locally owned and operated, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help with storm, water, fire, or mold damage. Keep our information on hand as part of your emergency preparedness. Contact us 24/7 at 602-2386-4268 to get the help you need.

Aging Pipes Are a Common Cause of Water Damage in Homes and Buildings

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

People who come from the Midwest or eastern states are familiar with bursting pipes due to extremely cold weather. What they don’t expect is that pipe break with some frequency in Arizona as well. While cold weather that freezes pipes might not affect Phoenix homes, the area is still susceptible to water damage from aging pipes

Water main issues can challenge aging pipes

In Arizona, water mains break due to aging infrastructure and other issues. When this occurs, a portion of the main is shut down to repair the break, and consequently, air can enter the line. Depending on the age of your backflow prevention system in your house, this air can enter your indoor plumbing quickly and provide a lot of pressure. Many Phoenix homes become susceptible to water damage from events like these, and a bad enough break could ultimately affect numerous homes at once. For many houses, the indoor plumbing is sufficient to handle this added pressure for as long as it exists until air can work back out of the piping, but with older or improperly installed plumbing, this could lead to a water emergency for your home.

SERVPRO knows how to handle the challenges of aging pipes and damage
 

Our SERVPRO technicians have seen all manner of water damage caused by aging pipes, and we have the tools and expertise to clean up water damage for you. The process starts with eliminating the root of the problem, which means initially cutting the supply of water into your home via the primary service line valve. Shutting off the supply ensures that further damage does not occur and that your water utility bill does not increase exponentially due to excessive demand pulling through the meter. If the issue is actually a burst pipe in your home, we’ll address that as well. Depending on the severity of the damage that is visible when entering your home, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix professionals get to work with a wide range of tools and equipment. Our advanced equipment helps to detect hidden moisture, extract the standing water quickly. Depending on where the break occurred, your drywall could be damaged and in need of repair as well. The assessment of repairs and further restoration requirements happens alongside our drying efforts with air movers and dehumidification equipment. Our water damage remediation specialists know how to treat each situation for the best outcome.

The pipe problem you may not know about
 

Many people are not aware of the condition or strength of their indoor plumbing until it fails. Sometimes that failure is initiated within the house itself, while other times it is caused by a water main break putting additional pressure on the aging system. Regardless, if you have any manner of a water emergency, do not hesitate to call our experienced team of professionals at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix. You can reach us 24/7 at (602) 386-4268.

Is Your Office Building Prepared for an Emergency?

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

If you are a business owner with a commercial property such as an office building, fire safety and overall preparedness should be a priority. Being prepared with the right equipment and emergency plan can save money and lives in the event of a fire or other emergency. Take a moment to see if your office building is prepared. 

Have fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems

When trying to avoid potential fires at work, make sure that the property is outfitted with the appropriate amount of fire extinguishers to adequately cover the building. They need to be tested regularly to make sure they always work. The same goes with all fire suppression systems like an automatic sprinkler system. Your local fire department can assist in testing and recommendations on what would work best for your office building. Be sure all extinguishers are easily accessible throughout the building should an emergency occur.

Check your smoke and fire alarms

Smoke and fire alarms are a necessity to a fire protection and damage control for commercial buildings. Installing them is a good start, but they need to be inspected often to maintain functionality. There are a variety of options for smoke and fire alarms, from hard-wired to wireless. Once you have a smoke and fire alarm system in place, make sure there is a plan of action should the alarm sound off and occupants know what to do. Have an exit map clearly scheduled throughout the building so people know how to exit the building safely.

Engage in safety training

An often overlooked but important aspect to safety preparedness is safety training. Incorporating a fire safety training course in the workplace will empower building occupants to know what to do should an emergency occur. Contact your local fire department for information on available safety courses.

Have adequate emergency exit lighting

Emergency exits signs that light up should be installed throughout the property to direct residents to safety during a fire alarm or other emergency. Make sure that the emergency exit is clear of anything that could get in the way as people try to exit the building.

Have an established evacuation plan

It’s a good idea to schedule your commercial building to be inspected for any potential fire code issues that could hinder overall preparedness. The fire department will do it for free. Have regular fire drills and educate employees so that they are familiar with how to work the fire equipment. You may also want to invest in an emergency readiness plan to make sure your building prepared for any issue that may come along. SERVPRO’s ERP is an effective way to plan for any emergency.

It’s important to ensure that your office building is prepared for any emergency. Reach out to the pros at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to learn how we can help. Contact us at 602-386-4268.

Avoid These Mistakes If Your Home Has Mold

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Mold often takes homeowners by surprise if they haven’t experienced an obvious flood in their home or other noticeable water damage. The buildup of indoor moisture from high relative humidity during monsoon season, plumbing issues, and roof leaks may lead to mold damage. Should you happen to experience mold, avoid these mistakes to keep from making the problem worse.

Dealing with mold damage

It is important to take precautionary measures when dealing with mold damage. You want to not only get rid of the mold growth you have but keep it from getting worse or coming back. Our SERVPRO technicians assess the level of contamination and choose the right approach for the job. Our technicians are trained in how to correctly deal with mold issues and mold remediation, avoiding the mistakes a homeowner may make who is not familiar with mold and how it works.

Taking appropriate precautions

SERVPRO technicians are careful not to spread the contaminant to clean areas, and if we must disturb the mold when cleaning the site, we make sure containment procedures are already in place. Containment also helps limit mold exposure to the occupants in the home. If the area we are working on is small, we practice limited containment. Many homeowners skip this step and can make matters worse. After disturbing the mold, spores and dust might settle on porous and non-porous surfaces. When that happens, we do damp wiping and HEPA vacuuming to remove spores. Our technicians determine the airflow direction and clean areas towards that path, and the cleaning process starts from the structure's top towards its bottom.

Drying to stop the growth and prevent further damage

When drying the items and rooms, our SERVPRO technicians first remove any wet objects from the area to speed up evaporation and after that, we setup dehumidifiers to lower the humidity in the room. Moisture meters provide initial readings of overall humidity at the start of the job and will be monitored to ensure the project is complete when it’s measured again after drying out and cleanup. If necessary, we’ll remove damaged items that can’t be restored and dispose of safely. Some homeowners assume surface mold can be cleaned and painted over, but that’s not always the case and may cause mold growth to return.

At SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, we understand mold and know how to handle mold remediation. If you experience mold issues in your home, contact us 24/7 at 602-386-4268 to get the job handled.

Suspect a Water Leak? Here are the Signs to Look For

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes water leaks occur without the knowledge of the homeowner. If these leaks go undetected for a significant amount of time, severe damage may occur. If you suspect you have a water leak but don’t see any visible water, here are the signs to look for.

How to tell if you have a water leak

Knowing the signs of water damage in your home can make a big difference in repair and restoration expenses. SERVPRO technicians maintain readiness on a 24/7 basis to respond quickly to floods, burst pipes, and other issues that may happen in your home, saving time and money by getting to the job site faster to address the problem. By identifying and treating problems earlier, we can help to prevent situations such as mold growth or other issues from causing damage to the structural components of your home. Knowing what to look for can make a significant impact on potential repairs.

Discolored or misshapen materials

Many materials show water damage through discoloration. Pigments used in fabrics, paints, flooring, and other surfaces can change color when they encounter water. The shape, spread, and specific color of these spots can vary depending on how much water has been released, and what materials it has already encountered. One of the most destructive processes in a water-damaged home is color bleed from one fabric to another, but a fast call to SERVPRO can help to avoid this problem.

Reoccurance of mold

If your kitchen, bath or other room seems to constantly be challenged with mold growth, this is an indication that you may have a leak that needs to be dealt with.

Unusual sounds

Depending on the severity of the leak behind a wall or underground, an unusual sound may alert you to a water leak. From a dripping sound to a whooshing sound of water at high pressure inside pipes in your home can create unique sounds when something is amiss.

Strange Odors

Several different complications of water damage can create unusual and off-putting smells. These can materialize quickly or build over time. Oxidizing metals, freshly soaked wood and other materials and mold growth can all create pungent odors in your home, which is a sign of water damage. SERVPRO technicians use multiple deodorization methods to rid your home of any unwanted smells once the source of the water damage is found and addressed.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix helps Valley homeowners that experience water leaks, floods, and other disasters in their residences. If you suspect a water leak and have experienced any of the above, call us at (602) 386-4268.

Preventing Mold in Commercial Buildings

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

While homeowners sometimes have issues with mold damage in their homes due to leaks or other issues, commercial buildings like schools, gyms, and hotels can experience mold damage as well. There are several reasons why you might find mold in these kinds of buildings. We’ve put together a few tips on how to handle the situation if you do find mold. Keep reading to learn more!

Common Moisture Causes in Commercial Buildings

Moisture problems in commercial buildings can be caused by a variety of conditions, including roof and plumbing leaks, condensation, and excess humidity. Some moisture problems in buildings have been linked to changes in building construction practices in past years. These changes have resulted in more rigidly sealed buildings that may not allow moisture to escape quickly, which can cause mold to grow. Moisture problems in businesses are also associated with delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance, due to budget and other constraints. Recent events have only exacerbated the situation. Temporary structures in buildings, such as trailers and portable classrooms for schools, have frequently been associated with moisture and mold problems. 

Suggestions for reducing mold growth in buildings

There are several steps that hotels, gyms, schools, and other commercial buildings can take to help reduce mold growth over time. First, try to reduce indoor humidity. With monsoon season in AZ, even if there is no rain, there’s still substantial moisture in the air, so try doing the following for your building:

• Use exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning in food service areas.
• Vent showers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside.
• Control humidity levels and dampness by using air conditioners and dehumidifiers.
• Provide adequate ventilation to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-60%.

Inspect the building for signs of mold, moisture, leaks, or spills that can cause mold growth. Check for moldy odors, which can indicate mold is growing, even if you can’t see it. Look for water stains or discoloration on the ceiling, walls, floors, and windowsills. Check under sinks for standing water, water stains, or mold. Inspect bathrooms for standing water, water stains, or mold. Do not let water stand in air conditioning or refrigerator drip pans.

What to do if you see mold damage or suspect mold growth is present

If you suspect that you have mold issues, your first step should be to call in mold remediation specialists like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, who can come in and address the situation. While many business owners feel they can address the situation themselves, cleaning the visible mold isn’t always enough. Not only do you need to clean the visible mold, but you also need to find the source of mold growth in the first place and remedy the situation. After cleaning the visible mold, you need to ensure that the area is thoroughly dry, so mold growth doesn’t come back. Last, you may need to address the lingering odor of mold. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has trained professionals to handle all aspects of mold remediation. They’ll come in to inspect the mold damage, assessing what needs to be done to address the issue. They’ll contain the mold growth, initiate air filtration for mold spores, remove the mold and mold-infested materials in your building, clean contents, and restore the area to pre-mold damage condition. If you experience mold damage in your commercial building, call the experts at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, 24/7, at 602-386-4268.

Does Your Phoenix Home Have a Fire Evacuation Plan?

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Emergencies of any kind can happen anywhere, at any time; your home is no different. If you were to have a fire in your home, would you and your family know what to do? Do you have a safe place designated as a meetup spot to ensure everyone is safe? It’s important that you have a family meeting to decide these details and prepare yourselves for all situations, including fire. Having this plan in place can save your family and pets in case of an emergency.

Have a plan

The following is a helpful list of how to make your evacuation plan for your Phoenix home.

• Create a map of your home and come up with an evacuation plan. Many homeowners have a floorplan of their home or of their model home; if you have one, use that!
• Consider the best areas to exit the home. Have a backup in case the fire is blocking your exit route.
• Walk around each room and find at least two ways that you could get out of the home quickly should an emergency strike.
• Document these details and share them with your family; it will prepare all of you in case of an emergency, and your pets too.
• Open every window in the house to make sure each one can be easily opened. Fix any that are difficult to open.
• If you are in an emergency and have one option to exit the home, you want be able to get out in a hurry without fussing with a stuck window.
• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom and outside each sleeping area. TEST them at least once a year!
• By making sure you’re going to be alerted properly, you will save time when a fire is truly a threat and get everyone out safely.
• Select a meeting place in the front of your home that is easily reached by all family members.
• This needs to be far enough to get away from the smoke and fire, but not too far that you can’t see it from your home. Parents will want to be able to make sure that everyone is out of the house, including your pets, before closing the door to the home.
• Remember that opening and closing doors increases the amount of oxygen you are giving the fire, so keep the door open on a minimal basis.
• Make sure every single member of the family is aware of the plan.
• Rehearse a fire drill
• Print several copies of your evacuation plan. Tape one to the fridge. Keep another in your garage or other area when everyone can see it.

Don't forget your pets

If you have pets, it’s a good idea to put leashes or travel boxes in a handy place to evacuate them quickly and safely. Assign one person to be responsible to ensure all pets are out safely.

When you experience fire damage

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix should be your first choice for any residential or commercial restoration needs. Our team of professionals is trained to assess the damage and potential threats, extract and contain the affected area, dry, and restore your property to preloss condition. 

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is available 24/7 to help you with any of your fire damage remediation needs. You can contact us at 602-386-4268.

SERVPRO Handles Your Exterior Flood Damage to Your Home

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

When flood damage of any kind happens to your home, it can be devastating. While interior damage is the most stressful, the exterior of your home also requires cleanup after monsoon flooding. Debris can end up on your lawn, strewn across your landscaped areas, up on your roof and can create serious safety hazards. Fallen trees can also do a lot of damage to sheds and garages. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help!

Addressing exterior flood damage

Monsoons in Phoenix that leave homeowners suffering from flood damage often need mitigation of the exterior areas in addition to any interior damage that may have occurred. SERVPRO technicians can properly address the interior areas of your home, as well as those on the exterior, including making sure that debris no longer remains behind as an eyesore or hazard potential, and addressing the sides of your home by washing them clean of residue. We can also address flood damage that impacts your outbuildings such as garages and sheds by inspecting them and cleaning up any damage found.

Getting your home back to normal, inside and out

While interior flood damage affects your family the most, we know that hazards outside of your home can keep your family from enjoying time outdoors; especially in the summer when families want to enjoy their pools and backyards. We can help you resolve these concerns by cleaning up the area and making it beautiful and hazard-free again. Damage from severe monsoon winds can include pieces of broken glass, shards of splintered wood, piles of debris that was pushed into corners of patios, gardens and backyards. This can cause a hazardous situation for kids and pets. Removing them, as well as any other hazards can restore safety to your yard for your children.

Garages and sheds can retain moisture just like the interior elements of your home which over time can cause additional damage. Our IICRC-certified technicians can go in and dry these areas out and clean up any debris left behind. Address this damage as soon as possible can keep your tools from rusting in your shed or outside storage. We know that what is in your garage, shed or other outside storage space is important to address and know how to get it done.

We are here to help 24/7

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix's technicians are always ready to help homeowners after flood damage ruin their property. Call our 24-hour emergency services line at (602) 386-4268 to get the help you need to recover from monsoon flood damage to your home.

SERVPRO’s Commercial Cleaning Services Can Help Hotels Reopen

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Savvy hotel owners have been reaching out to SERVPRO to help with their disinfecting and sanitation needs during this challenging time. While we’ve been on site, they’ve also discovered all the other commercial cleaning services that SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can provide to help them reopen and attract guest to their hotel once again.

Making good first impressions with commercial cleaning

When operating a hotel of any size, first impressions are everything, especially with everyone’s heightened cleanliness expectations. What does a guest see when they first walk into your lobby? What do they see or smell when they enter their hotel room for the first time? It is especially important it is to make sure your hotel rooms and facility are clean and look their absolute best to guests and other visitors that walk on to the property. By having a facility that is thoroughly cleaned, you are well on your way to developing a guest that will come back time after time, and possibly refer their friends and family to stay at your hotel. Hotel managers know the value of repeat customers and how important it is to nurture those relationships. While customer service and quality of accommodations most certainly impact whether a guest will become a dedicated return customer or not, impressions of cleanliness most certainly make a bid difference.

Commercial cleaning services available to hotels

There are a wide variety of materials and surfaces in your hotel that SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can clean and deodorize as part of our commercial cleaning services. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix offers cleaning services ranging from cleaning hoods in hotel restaurants to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Here’s a list of some of the items we can clean:

• Carpets
• Upholstery
• Area Rugs
• Drapes
• Tile
• HVAC and Duct Cleaning

If your hotel needs some freshening up or a thorough cleaning, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has the training and tools to get your hotel looking and smelling its absolute best! Whether you need a one-time deep clean or ongoing commercial cleaning, contact us at 602-386-4268 to get the job done.

Common Causes for House Fires

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

It may seem that as a homeowner, if you are careful about not leaving fire unattended, you’ll likely avoid a house fire, but there are actually several common causes for home fires that have nothing to do with open flames in your home. Check out this list of events compiled by SERVPRO of Central Phoenix that could cause a home fire so you’re better informed on how to avoid this tragedy.

Outdoor cooking

During the barbeque season, grills left unattended on a wooden deck or next to a wall of a home can bring about a fire. A heated grill next to a wooden fence can easily cause fire, and grills have been known to ignite the exterior walls of a home or garage if placed too close. If you are using materials such as newspaper to start a fire, embers can blow and catch the side of a home on fire. Not all house fires start on the inside, so use caution when barbecuing to keep your home safe.

Holiday decorations

When people think of fires caused by holiday décor, Christmas trees most certainly are the top cause of flames. Christmas trees come with many risks. When the tree becomes dry, a quick spark or light shortage from strands of lights can set the whole tree on fire. Make sure to keep the water reservoir full and to unplug the tree when you are not at home. If you have pets that tend to chew, keep the tree lights high enough where they cannot reach it. Since many people decorate for other holidays like Halloween, these precautions apply to those decorations as well. Do not leave lighting unattended for a long period of time, and do not leave candles burning unattended. Check your lighted décor to make sure it is not overheating; this can cause a fire too if it is near a flammable item or even wood furniture.

Faulty wiring

Faulty wiring does not just happen around the holidays. Any time of year, fires erupt from overheated wiring. To minimize this from occurring, make sure systems are installed properly with their protective features. Do not overload a socket, electrical cord, or extension cord. Check the labeling or gauge rating to understand the capacity of these items to keep your wiring safe.

Unattended candles 

Candles can add beauty and ambiance to a home, and the scented ones are exceptionally popular with homeowners. However, as mentioned above, NEVER leave a flame unattended. Curious children can pick them up or knock them over. Same with pets. Even a long fluffy tail passing by can start a fire. Keep your kids, pets and home safe and always keep an eye on those candles, extinguishing completely if you are leaving the house.

Smoking

Cigarette butts are a common cause for house fires as cigarettes will sometimes be left unattended or dropped. There have also been situations where the smoker has fallen asleep with a lit cigarette or cigar in their hands, which fall to the ground, on furniture or on the bed, causing a fire. Be careful to always extinguish your cigar or cigarette fully when you are done with it, and do not leave it burning unattended.

Flammable liquids

Chemical fires occur from spontaneous combustion: this is a reaction of chemicals combining with oxygen to produce enough heat to ignite. Be sure to store fuels and other chemicals in proper containers that are protected from heat. Fires like these tend to happen in the kitchen and garage, so take the time to review where your chemicals are stored and ensure they are far away from any kind of heat or spark source.

Kitchen fires

Out of all the scenarios, the most common residential fires come from cooking. This can occur from grease and oil being overheated in the stove or oven, which are highly flammable and combusts without needing direct flame contact. If such an even does occur, be sure to have the correct materials on hand to extinguish a fire (do not throw water on a grease fire; it will make it worse). Many times, open flames and ovens are left unattended when in use which can be a recipe for disaster. Portable cooking appliances like electric griddles and toasters should always be attended and be cool to the touch before being put away after use.

Home fires of any kind can be devastating. Practice caution by following the advice above to help keep your home safe. Should you experience a house fire, reach out to SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to help with your fire damage restoration needs. We are available 24/7 to help you get your home back to normal. Contact us at 602-386-4268 to help with any fire damage needs that you may have.

Fighting Odors After Your Office Building Flood

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

As the monsoons approach, many office buildings may be at risk for flooding if they are in a flood area or have ceilings that leak. When water damage happens, there are steps to take to not only address the damage, but the odors that may arise as a result of the flooding. Professional restoration experts can eliminate such odors from your property after an occurrence of commercial water damage in Phoenix. Here at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, we use a multi-approach method to fight odors after any kind of water damage. A variety of deodorants and odor combating techniques can eliminate the odors in no time. Here are a few methods that work the best.

Multiple methods approach to odor

Odors often come from different sources after a water damage incident. It can be challenging to find all the sources and determine a specific method to combat them individual, which is why businesses often struggle with odor well after they’ve cleaned their property. SERVPRO knows it is best to use multiple methods that use various deodorants to get a better result. Our IICRC certified SERVPRO technicians use a combination of various types of deodorants that can combat most common smells after a commercial water damage event.

Various types of deodorants to fight odors

Only one type of a deodorizing agent is always not enough to address smells from various sources. Different odors need different deodorants, believe it or not. Masking agents in time release beads are often used to cover up bad odors with a pleasant-smelling chemical. Professionals use these agents to combat both real and imaginary odors as well. Yes, there are some odors that only appear to remain after a cleaning as occupants have become accustom to the unpleasant smell; masking agents help address that issue. Pairing agents combine with the odor-causing particles in the air and neutralize them. Once these agents combine with the particles in the air, they cause them to fall to the ground, which can then be cleaned. These agents are often used in Ultra Low Volume foggers and wet foggers. Electrically generated deodorizing agents such as ozone gas are used after a move-out where odors linger. The Ozone is a reactive molecule that can combine with the odor-causing particle and neutralize it. The technicians use this method if the odors have penetrated deeply in the surfaces.

A perfect combination of all these techniques and agents is essential to eliminate the odors from your commercial property after water damage. If you struggle with odors after experiencing water damage or flooding in your office building, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix today at (602) 386-4268 to discuss your restoration needs with one of our professionals.

Getting Prepared for Arizona Storms to Prevent Damage

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

Experiencing the power of an Arizona monsoon can be quite impressive. Unfortunately, they can also cause quite a bit of damage to homes in the Valley. Getting prepared for Arizona storms to prevent damage is a smart move for homeowners. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has a few helpful tips to be prepared.

Check your roof before the storms hit

Out of sight out of mind is the classic excuse homeowners use when it comes to their roofs. Most have no idea there is an issue with the roof of their home until it leaks. The best prevention is to have the roof inspected before the storms hit each year and allow plenty of time for any repairs that need to be done. That will keep storm damage from happening.

Inspect the drainage around your home

Storm damage does not just happen to roofs of homes. If a house does not have proper drainage surrounding the property, you may find yourself with water seeping in under your doors. A telltale sign that your property may have drainage issues is if you have pooling of water during a rainstorm. If you do, make sure you have it taken care of before the monsoons hit. You may need to hire a landscaping company to provide a drainage solution that will keep your yard and home protected from possible flooding, but it is well worth the investment to prevent water damage.

Clean out rain gutters and spouts

We are fairly dry here in the Valley most of the year, and critters take advantage of the dry weather to build nice, comfortable nests in rain gutters and drainage pipes. Great for them, not so good for your home during a monsoon where fast drainage is critical. Rain gutters and downspouts are the best way to direct the rain that comes from monsoon microbursts away from your home. Make sure yours are ready to do their job and divert the rain away from your home’s foundation. Clean out obstructions and ensure any water is being directed away from your home.

Arizona storms are something to behold. Make sure you can do so from the comfort of your home without the worries of storm damage from monsoons. If you do experience storm damage, contact storm damage remediation specialists SERVPRO of Central Phoenix immediately to keep damage at a minimum. We are here 24/7 to serve you.

Fire Prevention for Your Business

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

While it is impossible to 100% protect your business from fire, there are actions you can take to make the prospect of fire damage less likely. We have pulled together a few tips about fire prevention for your business in hopes of keeping your business safe.

Identify potential fire threats

It is much easier to prevent fires when you identify the most likely culprits that could cause a fire at your place of business. Do an audit of your commercial property and look for the following:

• Faulty electrical wiring and equipment that could spark and cause a fire
• Clutter, dirt, and debris that can cause a fire, like grease buildup, trash near heater vents, etc.
• Improperly stored flammable and combustible materials
• Blocked ventilation
• Improper cigarette disposal
• Misuse of equipment
• Arson and vandalism signs

Your fire preparation efforts should consider each of these potential culprits and should be addressed to minimize the possibility of fire.

Create fire prevention plans for your business

As a business, fire prevention should include putting together a fire prevention plan that incorporates gathering fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and other preventative equipment. Your plan should cover the proper storage and disposal of flammable and combustible materials as well as hazardous waste. Schedule proper maintenance of fire protection equipment, in addition to the appliances and equipment you use regularly. A clean and organized building is less vulnerable because clutter is one of the main causes of commercial fires. Another step would be to create an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can work with you to create one to keep your staff prepared.

Provide ongoing training for your staff

The next step for fire prevention is to train employees on the proper procedures for reducing the threat of fire. Include training sessions about how to use a fire extinguisher and how to prevent the spread of flames. The training you provide for your employees can go a long way toward reducing fire damage should a fire occur.

Of course, all the preparation in the world cannot stop every fire but using the tips above will make your workplace safer and more protected against the possibility of fire. If your business experiences fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to help with your fire damage needs. We are here 24/7 to serve you. Contact us at (602) 386-4268.

Storm Safety for Your Home or Business

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Monsoons will be here before you know it, and it’s a good time to brush up on some storm safety tips that you can use so you’re not caught off guard.

Monsoons in Arizona

Monsoons can be quite spectacular to behold and are vital to the well-being of the environment, but severe thunderstorms produce dangerously heavy winds and lightning strikes. Sometimes, flash flooding, power outages, and property damage can result from the severe weather. Tragically, every people are injured or killed during this type of storm. Protect yourself and your home or business with these helpful tips.

Prepare During Severe Storm Watches

Arizona news is quite helpful when it comes to letting the public know when a storm is on the way. When a watch is issued, it means that conditions are just right for severe storms to develop. Tune into your radio or TV frequently for up-to-date information, and use this time to prepare for a storm:

• Review the community's emergency warning system and protocols.
• At your place of work, reiterate company policy for severe weather safety.
• Secure loose equipment or furnishings around your building or home.
• Reschedule outdoor events for better weather.

Once a warning is in effect, your preparations will improve safety throughout your home or business

Stay Inside Until the Storm Passes

Most storms move on within an hour or so. Regardless of how long the storm takes to pass or subside, plan to stay put until the high winds, lightning, and heavy rain or hail are over. While waiting for the danger to pass, take appropriate safety precautions:

• Shutter doors and windows and stay away from windows, glass doors, and skylights.
• Avoid standing near electrical equipment, including electrical telephones.
• Move away from plumbing systems.

Listen to official weather updates

Experts recommend waiting about 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder before leaving the safety of your home or business. While it may seem like “just a monsoon storm”, lightning and other situations caused by the storm can do you harm, so don’t take unnecessary chances.

Know who to contact if you experience storm damage

Every year we see images of fallen trees on homes, roofs collapsing on buildings, and home or office flooding. It’s good to have a reputable storm remediation company’s information on hand so you can get help recovering quickly. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix specializes in storm damage cleanup and restoration. Available 24/7, we can help you get your home or office back to normal. Contact us at (602) 386-4268 to get the help you need quickly.

How to Handle a Fire in Your Home

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

Experiencing a house fire can be one of the more traumatic situations a person can endure. Even when the immediate threat of physical harm has passed, the aftermath can be stressful if not completely overwhelming. Fires can do a lot of damage to your home. Sometimes it's hard for a homeowner to know what to do after a fire, so SERVPRO of Central Phoenix put together a few tips to help you get through this situation.

What to Do After A Fire

There are definitely a few actions you should take after a fire in your home once the flames have been extinguished.

• Limit movement in the home to prevent ash and soot from being tracked and embedded into upholstery, flooring, and carpets.
• Keep your hands clean to avoid spreading ash on to upholstery, walls, furnishings, and woodwork.
• If you need to walk around the home, place floor covering carpet traffic areas to keep further damage to a minimum.
• Wash kids’ and pets’ toys thoroughly
• Wash pet bowls and bedding thoroughly
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filters

Of course, fire remediation specialists can help determine what they can handle vs. what the homeowner can or should do, but oftentimes homeowners are focused on cleaning and recovering immediately. The above items are safe to do if you use caution, and only enter the home if you’ve been told by a professional that its safe to do so.

What NOT to Do After A Fire

There are also several activities you should avoid following a house fire. Many of these are best left to the professionals. Done incorrectly, you could cause even further damage.

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Don't try to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don’t turn on the A/C or ceiling fans even if it’s safe to do so, as you could further spread ash and soot throughout the house.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set a smoke odor.

If you’re not sure what you should do after a fire, don’t do anything and defer to the professionals. After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first.

If you have a fire or smoke damage emergency in your home, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268. We are available 24/7 and are here to help you get through this challenging and stressful time.

Reach out To SERVPRO of Central Phoenix for All Your Cleaning Needs

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix serves Phoenix and the surrounding communities. We offer many different services to handle any problems that might arise in your commercial or residential property. Did you know that SERVPRO can help with all these issues?

Fire Damage

Fires can be devastating, and they often leave homes and offices covered in a thick layer of soot. In addition to the soot and smoke, water damage is also typical due to firefighting efforts. We know how stressful and upsetting dealing with the aftermath of a fire is, so we are here to guide you through every step and give you peace of mind with our fire damage restoration services. We can remove soot from surfaces and get rid of the lingering smell of smoke. We can also restore textiles and fabric such as your wardrobe or your child’s favorite stuffed animal so that you can get your life back to normal as quickly as possible.

Mold Remediation

Mold growth inside a home or office can be a problem for those living or working inside of the building if it is not left treated. Mold is challenging to deal with, so you should leave treating the microbial growth to the professionals. Our technicians have been specially trained to get rid of mold and keep it from returning; we even have formulas that have been specifically created to treat the problem. Mold remediation needs professionals to be handled correctly. We can help!

Water Damage

Water damage is a very common problem in homes and businesses, so we know exactly how to deal with it. From burst pipes to rainwater and flooding, our team has seen it all and handled it all. A fast response is critical to preventing further damage, so we pride ourselves on our ability to respond rapidly to water disasters. We use specialized equipment to extract the water and dry out the property.

Biohazard Cleanup

Substances such as blood, bile, urine, and other similar fluids can be hazardous to clean up on your own, especially if you are not wearing the proper protective equipment. The technicians at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix have the proper protective equipment and training to handle anything from crime scenes to kitchen accidents. Biohazard materials also need to be disposed of according to EPA and OSHA standards, or there is a risk of exposing others to harmful substances. Stay on the safe side, and let us handle the mess for you.

No matter what kind of situation you’re up against, we are “Here to help.” Contact us today at (602) 386-4268 to get the job done for your home or business.

SERVPRO Can Save Water Damaged Possession in Your Home

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

Homeowners discovering water damage to their possessions at a late stage can face a real challenge. While replacing items can ensure that there are no further issues or cross-contamination, contents are what make a house a home and can hold sentimental value—our restoration services center on restoring rather than replacing. SERVPRO’s water restoration technicians (WRT) can achieve remarkable results.

What to do when you find water damage

When you discover water damage in your Phoenix home, the first thing to do is contact your insurance provider. SERVPRO can work with your insurer to restore your property on time and on-budget. Some items with prolonged exposure may still need replacing. Time is of the essence when dealing with water damage, so the sooner you start the process, the better the chance that possessions can be saved.

We provide professional care

One thing that SERVPRO can do is provide expert care and attention to your contents, no matter how extensive the damage. When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the water damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-water damage conditions, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. Specialized services from document recovery to mitigating deterioration of valuable electronic devices like computers or televisions can often be carried out on-site. While reversing the water damage is difficult, we can prevent further damage from occurring- a process referred to as mitigating loss.

Mitigating loss

Our team of SERVPRO of Central Phoenix technicians is experts at mitigating loss. When a water emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. We can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. We take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding.

Our Contents Claim Inventory Service:

• Preloss list and value of contents
• Detailed and accurate report
• Better information to settle claims quicker
• Assistance with the burden of proof for claims
• Peace of mind when you need it most

While home emergencies are always difficult. You can have confidence that many of your items are restorable if you use a professional restoration service like ours. We operate emergency contact lines twenty-four hours a day and utilize local technicians to reduce call-out times, as little as four hours from notification of loss.

Time is of the essence in home restoration, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268.

SERVPRO Has the Tools to Get Any Remediation Job Done

3/21/2020 (Permalink)

In addition to training and experience, it’s important to have the right equipment to get the job done. That’s why SERVPRO of Central Phoenix uses several types of equipment and technology to address and fire, water or mold remediation issues you might have. Learn more about the tools we use to get the job done.

The tools and technology at SERVPRO

At SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, helping our customers experiencing water, fire or mold damage areas is our top priority. To do this, we understand that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, technology, and equipment must be counted on to perform. Here are some of the tools we use to help get your property and structure to its preloss condition. Each machine and piece of equipment has a crucial role in the restoration process. Every SERVPRO of Central Phoenix restoration technician is trained to use each piece of equipment to its highest potential.

Portable extractors for water removal

Extractors are used for cleaning carpets, cleaning upholstery, and removing water from floors after water damage or flood. Restoration technicians use this machine for variable heat-controlled cleaning, including to heat the rinse solutions to clean more effectively. With this machine, we can expedite the removal of water and humidity from damaged materials and textiles to help restore it to preloss conditions.

Ozone generator for odors

The portable ozone generator eliminates a variety of odors caused by animals, cigarette smoke, mold and mildew, fire, and water damage. This machine generates ozone which chemically reacts with odor-causing molecules to oxidize residues and remove the odors. Once the deodorization process is complete, ozone quickly reverts to the typical oxygen molecule, leaving no residues. Once the odor is gone, the results are permanent.

Dehumidification equipment for moisture

The dehumidification process increases the rate of evaporation by removing water vapor from the air. Our highly trained technicians position dehumidifiers strategically in a water-damaged structure, so the moist, humid air moves through the unit while dry, warm air is discharged. We use the dehumidifiers, primarily because it provides a continual source of dry air to enhance the restoration process.

Air movers to reduce drying time

Air movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level and reduce drying time. These machines introduce airflow at the surface level and replace the highly saturated air with drier air to enhance dissipation. Our technicians operate the air movers in several different positions, offering flexibility in how to direct the airflow with the best possible outcome. 

Truck-mounted extraction units for the big jobs

A truck-mounted extraction unit consists of several smaller components, which work together to make one of the best pieces of cleaning equipment in the industry. Due to the required training of this equipment, our technicians know the specific environment needed for this piece of machinery to work and how to maintain it appropriately for health and safety reasons. 

Our equipment is tested

SERVPRO tests all equipment before putting the items in the product line. To provide the best service to our customers, we must know how the truck mount works, how to set up and maintain the unit, how to use it safely, how to clean the vehicle interior, unit, tools, hoses, and so forth as needed, and how to inspect all equipment and accessories for any damage, leaks, or wear.

The use of these equipment options helps us get your water or fire disaster back to its preloss condition. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is always here to help! If you’ve suffered water, fire or mold damage contact us immediately at 602-386-4268 to get the job done right with the right equipment!

Heavy Rainstorms in Phoenix Can Damage Your Home

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

We’ve had some significant rainfall lately in Phoenix. While this time of year may bring a sprinkle or two, this week’s rains were enough to cause unexpected storm damage to homes already soaked from last month’s record rainfall.

Roof damage

This is the time of year you start seeing homeowners replacing their roofs in preparation for the rough monsoon season only a few months away. Unfortunately, many were caught unprepared by how much rain came down this week, and the result is storm damage to that partially installed roof. While you may be able to get your roofer to come out and address damage to the roof itself, you may have experienced additional storm damage from your unprotected roof.

Leaky window frames and casings

With the amount of rain, we’ve received here in the Valley, some window frames and casings may become compromised, letting rain to seep into the home and interior walls. The result of that can be mold and mildew growing. Left unchecked, it can become a big problem, resulting in the need for mold remediation. Check those windowsills and casings after a solid storm to ensure you don’t have any unwelcome leaks or drips.

Flooded basements

Many Phoenix homeowners suffer flooded basements as a result of unusually wet rainstorms. To protect yourself from that happening to your basement, once again check those windows! You may also want to look and see that exterior water from the storm isn’t puddling right up against the house which could ultimately cause mold or mildew. Last, check that sump pump and make sure it’s in good working order. Here are a few tips to follow if you experience storm damage.

How to handle rainstorm damage

If portions of your home experienced flooding from the recent storm, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix immediately! Our storm damage cleanup and restoration services can help get your home back to the way it was before the storm. We can provide emergency board up and tarping services, as well as reconstruction and repair. Our qualified IICRC-certified disaster relief technicians can utilize equipment like our extraction machines and efficient drying units to reduce the spread and damaging effects of floodwater in your home. We’re available 24/7 to respond to your disaster so contact us at 602-386-4268 to get help for storm damage today!

We are Cleaning Experts

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at 602-386-4268.

Sources:

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

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

SERVPRO Offers a Variety of Commercial Cleaning Services to Protect Your Business

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

Many businesses engage the services of a regular cleaning crew to come in and do the routine upkeep companies need: cleaning surfaces, vacuuming, dusting, cleaning restrooms, emptying wastebaskets, etc. What happens when your business needs more than the usual type of cleaning?  SERVPRO of Central Phoenix offers a variety of commercial cleaning services to help protect your business.

Biohazard cleanup

Biohazard cleanup is not the type of cleaning most businesses think of when looking for a commercial cleaning service, but it’s unfortunately sometimes needed. Here are a few situations where SERVPRO can help with this specialized cleaning:

• Sewage Backups

Sewage backups and dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. We remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture, and help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

• Bloodborne Pathogens

We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO of Central Phoenix Professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

SERVPRO can deal with a variety of biohazard cleanup situations for businesses large and small.

Vandalism and graffiti

Vandalism and graffiti can be very upsetting. It can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed in a timely manner. Here are a few services we provide with regards to vandalism and graffiti cleanup:

• General cleaning and graffiti removal
• Brick, stone, and concrete cleaning
• Odor removal and deodorization
• Debris removal
• Water damage restoration
• Fire damage restoration
• Mold damage restoration
• Contents cleaning

Stopping the spread of germs

A clean workplace is a healthy workplace! We can help minimize the spread of germs with proactive cleaning! At SERVPRO, we’re trained to adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitization standards, making us the #1 choice for cleanup and restoration.

If your company is looking for a comprehensive commercial cleaning service, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at 602-386-4268 today to learn more.

SERVPRO Offers Commercial Duct Cleaning to Phoenix Businesses

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Is it time for you to have your ducts cleaned? It is very important to have your commercial ducts cleaned. If you can’t remember the last time these were done, then it’s probably time, but you’re in luck! SERVPRO offers commercial duct cleaning to Phoenix businesses!

Why get your ducts clean?

Ventilation systems are often the biggest cause of poor indoor air quality. If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating odors, dust and other contaminates. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit of businesses all over the Valley.  Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can in turn save you money and give you cleaner air in your office!

How do you know when it’s time to clean your ducts?

If you’ve never had them done, or it’s been so long ago that you can’t even remember when they were last done, it may be time to clean your ducts! You may also want to clean them after any kind of major construction or renovation to your business, as dust and dirt will reside in your air ducts and just get worse over time. However, duct cleaning is not always necessary. SERVPRO will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns at your business and let you know if you’re due for a cleaning. Duct cleaning generally refers to the cleaning of various heating and cooling system components of forced air systems, including the supply and return air ducts and registers, grilles and diffusers, heat exchangers heating and cooling coils, condensate drain pans, fan motor and fan housing, and the air handling unit housing.

What are the benefits of commercial duct cleaning?

Why get your ducts clean if you don’t even see them?  The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include and getting your ducts cleaned include:

• Help restore peak energy efficiency.
• May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Help reduce the potential for mold growth.

Schedule your duct cleaning today!

You can call our office to schedule your duct cleaning. SERVPRO has highly trained professionals ready to help you and your home and business get those ducts cleaned and back in working order. We also offer free estimates. If you feel like you may possibly need your ducts cleaned call a SERVPRO professional today (602) 386-4268 and we will help you every step of the way.

Why Call SERVPRO After a Fire in Your Phoenix Home?

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

In the aftermath of a house fire, it’s hard to think about what the next steps should be. Who do you call? Who is best qualified to help with cleanup and restoration? Is it even worth trying to restore fire and smoke-damaged items? So many questions during such a stressful time. That’s why you should call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to work with you every step of the way after a fire in your Phoenix home.

Wait for the pros to help assess the damage

When your home has been damaged by fire or smoke damage, your first impulse may be to start cleaning to get things back to normal immediately. Although we understand the desire to restore order as quickly as possible, calling the smoke and fire restoration professionals at SERVPRO can save you time, money, and headaches. Here’s an overview of the process that we take with each fire to make your home "Like it never even happened." 

Handling the aftermath of a fire strategically

After even a small house fire, the structure of the home will need to be thoroughly cleaned. This likely includes ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and other floorings. Our restoration specialists will pretest each area to determine the extent of the damage and utilize specialized products and techniques for each individual surface as appropriate for the best results. Depending on the amount and type of soot and smoke, it may be possible to keep costs down and avoid having to paint and refinish some walls and woodwork from smoke damage. Our professionals will advise you on how extensive the damage is, how they’ll address it, and what if any additional work might need to be done. 

The contents of your home in the affected areas will be cleaned and deodorized. This can include furniture, drapes, upholstery, and area rugs. Other items in your home, such as furniture, kitchen items, clothing, and bedding, will also be cleaned as necessary. We have experts on staff who are specialists in fire restoration cleaning and restoring your artwork, electronics, and precious family photographs. Finally, the contents of your home will be thoroughly inventoried so you can rest assured that your belongings are being safely maintained and treated professionally.

After the cleaning is complete, your home will be thoroughly deodorized to eliminate any lingering odors left by the fire or smoke damage. Our treatments eliminate the odors at their source. 

Don’t go it alone

Even a small house fire can have devastating and lasting consequences that need the expertise of a professional to address and avoid further damage. Don't go it alone. Call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to get the job done right quickly and efficiently. We can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 602-386-4268. 

How Your Phoenix Home Can Experience Indoor Flooding

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

Most Phoenix homeowners don’t consider the possibility of indoor flooding in their home since they live in the desert, but indoor flooding is possible. Learn how your Phoenix home can experience indoor plumbing and how the experts at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help.

What can cause indoor flooding?

Indoor flooding is one of the leading causes of water damage to home. There are a few common causes of these type of flooding.

• 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 installation, but regardless of the cause, pipe problems often cause a lot 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, which can lead to mold.
• 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. Even if your water heater is in the garage, it’ll leak enough water to damage adjacent walls.
• 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 allowing a slow drain that is merely an inconvenience but over time, even slow leaks can and will cause damage. Not only that, 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 and major indoor flooding.
• Faulty Washing Machine Hoses: The most common problem with washing machines are faulty hoses. A leak in your intake hose can worsen over time and can cause flooding in your home. 

What to do if you experience an indoor flood

The moment you realize that you’ve got a flood, turn off the source of water immediately to prevent further damage and water loss. Next, contact the pros at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, water damage and restoration specialists that will come in and help with cleanup and repairs. Locally owned and operated, SERVPRO is available to help you 24/7 and knows what to do to get your home back to normal. Until help arrives, be careful of any trip hazards caused by the indoor flooding. If you suspect any wet electrical in the area, avoid any contact and wait for the pros to arrive. Don’t try to move heavy objects that are wet as they become even heavier with all extra moisture. If you’re unsure what to move, how to mop up the water or if there are any hazards, be safe and wait for SERVPRO to show up. We’ll do a full inspection and tell you exactly what needs to be done to address the situation.

Indoor floods to happen in Phoenix homes! Be prepared by keeping SERVPRO of Central Phoenix’s contact information on hand and contact us at 602-386-4268 to help with your water damage and flood needs.

What to Do When Rains Cause Storm Damage to Your Phoenix Home

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Unlike other parts of the country, Phoenix’s weather is predictable most of the time. However, we’ve had some strange weather patterns these past few months, a mild monsoon and then late torrential rain, more sun, more rain. It’s been crazy! If your home experienced storm damage, it’s time to contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix!

Phoenix storms can be powerful and damaging

Monsoons can wreak havoc on a home of any size, but desert storms, in general, can cause storm damage. The Thanksgiving weekend storm in Phoenix saw heavy rain and at least three tornadoes touched down in the Valley. After that, the weather was mild until another round of soaking came along in early January this year. This resulted in excess water, downed trees hitting homes and, in some cases, damaged roofs; results you usually hear about during the monsoon, but it really can happen any time after a good storm. For many homeowners, the intensity of the storm took them by surprise and their homes couldn’t handle it.

Why it’s important to react quickly to storm damage

Water damage and flooding can cause structural damage that needs to be addressed quickly to maintain the integrity and safety of the home. Working with professionals like SERVPRO which offers 24/7 emergency service ensures that any damage will be dealt with quickly, efficiently and professionally. Even if the storm damage didn’t cause structural damage, the water damage caused by rainstorm can cause issues including mold, mildew and possibly electrical damage. Here are a few water damage tips to follow if you experience storm damage:

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting as best you can.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after the removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery and cushions for air circulation.
• Place foil or blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting to avoid stains and damage.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place to protect them from further damage.
• Gather loose items from floors to keep them safe.

How SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help with storm damage

When you call the SERVPRO highly trained specialists, we’ll come out to your home and inspect the damage, providing a full overview of what damage was done and how it needs to be addressed. We’ll check for contaminated water in the home to ensure the homeowner’s safety and do a complete safety inspection, providing a summary of what we found. Then we move to the water removal and water extraction stage. We’ll move out any belongings that need to be removed to get to all the water in the home. We’ll inspect the carpet and the carpet pad to evaluate how to best extract the water. We’ll follow by using specialized equipment for water removal and extraction including moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture permeation. We also use infrared cameras that may be used to find “hidden” water behind walls and ceilings, which can really cause damage if left unchecked. We’ll use submersible and gas-powered pumps if necessary, for continuous pumping of high-level water and our truck-mounted and portable extraction units to perform efficient water removal.

Going a step beyond after the water is gone

After the water has been removed, there are still steps to be taken by our team. We turn our efforts towards drying and dehumidification of items to prevent more damage like mold and mildew.  The floors and walls may appear dry, but a quick inspection may reveal they are wet to the touch. Nearly all building materials, like wood, drywall, and flooring materials, are porous and therefore retain water. This retained water can cause the materials to break down, warp, or cause mold damage. You also risk the chance of odors forming.

The final step: cleanup and repair of your home

Once our team has the water under control and the drying process complete, we can assist with any items that need repair from water damage such as walls, flooring, etc. Our building services include:

• Drywall Removal and Installation
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• Tile Floor Repair
• Painting

We’ll also focus on odor removal and deodorization if necessary. We do a complete and thorough job to ensure your home is completely addressed when it comes to storm damage. If your Phoenix home experienced storm damage recently, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix right away at (602) 386-4268. We’ll get the job done and get your home back to its normal condition in no time!

Addressing Mold Problems in Phoenix Attics

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

Even though Phoenix does not receive much rain compared to other places, having a leaky roof on your house can still cause problems. If there is a leak in the roof, water can get into your attic and damage structural components. It’s important to know what to do when addressing mold problems.

What happens after a water leak in your attic

By nature, attics have a higher relative humidity and air temperature than the livable area of the house, creating an ideal environment for mold growth. While mold spores are everywhere all the time, this environment can exacerbate the situation. If more moisture gets into your attic from the roof, mold and mildew can develop on the inside of the wood or plywood that forms the roof itself. If you have mold damage inside your Phoenix home's attic, the microbes from mold can contaminate your ventilation system. Once inside the air ducts, these microbes or spores can travel throughout the building, spreading the problem further.

Mold remediation

Once mold gets noticed inside the attic, specific procedures can be taken to fix the problem. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix knows exactly what to do! Any air intakes or holes that go into the living area of the home need to get sealed off with plastic. Plastic is put on the bottom part of the trusses to prevent any dust from contaminating the ceiling insulation or other materials. The access doors get sealed with plastic, and a zipper is installed to allow entrance while work is being done.

In most situations, the contaminated wood inside the attic can only be removed by sanding down the material's surface. Our SERVPRO technicians get equipped with full face mask respirators and personal protective gear, including suits that cover their entire body for protection during the remediation process. This is serious business! Air scrubbers then get placed inside the attic to pull particles out of the air during the sanding stage for optimum results and containment.

IICRC certified professionals

When sanding the impacted materials, SERVPRO’s IICRC certified crews always follow officially approved procedures and abide by all government rules and regulations. Our teams are trained to follow these rules for everyone’s safety. Automatic sanders with a vacuum hose attached to them are used to sand down the wood. The vacuum helps keep dust to a minimum by sucking up the air in the work area and putting it through a HEPA filter, leaving little debris behind. After sanding is complete, the HEPA vac gets used to clean up any leftover debris or dust particles. The attic is then sprayed down with an anti-microbial chemical to prevent future growth. In severe cases, a sealant paint gets sprayed inside the attic to inhibit mold from developing in the future. If you ever notice mold or mildew in your attic, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 any day, 24/7.

Help for Your Flooded Basement in Your Phoenix Home

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

If you’re new to the Valley, you might be surprised to learn that we have basements in Arizona, but we do! They’re actually quite popular as they stay nice and cool in the summer, so it’s an ideal place for a guest bedroom or entertainment room during those hot summer months. Unfortunately, just like anywhere else in the country, basements can flood. When that happens, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is here to offer help for water damage caused by a flooded basement.

How can a basement flood in Arizona?

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall or a broken pipe.  Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a home and are typically built partly or entirely below ground level. There are many reasons why your Phoenix basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain during our monsoon season
• Overflowing pool
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

What happens when a basement floods?

If flood water in your basement is not handled quickly and correctly, it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure. If your basement floods, here a few quick tips before calling SERVPRO:

• Turn off the water source causing the leak (if possible)
• Shut off any potential electrical that could come in contact with water
• Try to determine the source of the water so you can tell your SERVPRO techs when they arrive
• Wear foot protection as you wade through any flood water
• Try to move any items possible out of the flooded area (if you can do it safely)
• Don’t touch any electrical items (TVs, toasters, microwaves, etc.)

A flooded basement can impact the integrity of drywall, carpeting, beams, and more. It’s critical to get the water removed as quickly as possible to avoid damage and potential mold growth.

We are flooded basement specialists

It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Central Phoenix and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals. When it comes to water damage, here are a few facts about SERVPRO:

• We are available 24-hours/7 days per week
• We bill your insurance directly
• Our technicians are highly trained in water restoration techniques
• We use IICRC restoration standards
• We utilize advanced inspection and extraction equipment

If you experience a flooded basement in your Phoenix home, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix immediately at (602) 386-4268. We’ll help you get your basement back to normal in no time!

SERVPRO Building and Reconstruction Services Offer Help for Phoenix Homeowners

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

Home reconstruction after water damage

It’s been a wet season in the Valley this year, and with those storms come unexpected and unwelcomed damages such as flooding, water damage, and mold. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is well known for its remediation and repair services, but did you know they offer building and reconstruction services as well?  That means that homeowners have a one-stop option for all their repair, remediation and rebuilding needs.

SERVPRO offers it all with an in-house team          

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has been helping Phoenix homeowners and commercial building owners with their reconstruction needs for years now. Our in-house construction specialist is a licensed and bonded KB2 contractor and can handle all kinds of jobs from rough framing, finished carpentry and cabinets, post demolition framing, drywall installation in addition to new floors and ceilings. That means if your home or business suffers any kind of damage from flooding, fire, mold or more, our crew can come out and handle the damage remediation, then go to work on building and reconstruction as needed. No need to juggle multiple companies to get the job done!

A comprehensive list of building services

Here is a list of all the building and reconstruction services offered by SERVPRO of Central Phoenix:

• Board Up
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Document Drying
• Dry Cleaning
• Drywall Installation
• Drywall Removal
• Electrical
• Electronics Restoration
• Fine Art Restoration
• Furniture Restoration
• General Contracting
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• HVAC Services
• Linoleum Floor Repair
• Marble Floor Repair
• Move Out
• Painting
• Plumbing
• Portable Power
• Roof Tarp
• Roofing Services
• Scalable Resources
• Temporary Fencing
• Temporary Warehouse Space
• Tile Floor Repair
• Tree Removal

If you have a problem with your home or office building, chances are we can fix it!

Why SERVPRO for restoration and reconstruction services?

We know there are many companies that say they can help with remediation and reconstruction needs, but how many hold multiple certifications and advanced training to make sure the job is done right? Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. We study IICRC standards and best practices in cleaning and restoration standards. In addition, here are just a few of the certifications of our highly trained team:

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician

We’ll get the job done quickly and professionally. Even better, we’re a 24/7 service so when you need us, contact us, and we’ll be there! at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, we are ready to help in any kind of disaster, big or small.  We have the resources to tackle the largest building loss or a bathroom overflow, and anything in between.

The rainy season in Phoenix isn’t over yet. If your home or business experiences any kind of damage, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at 602-386-4268 to get the problem handled fast!

Does Your Phoenix Home Need to Be Tested for Mold?

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Fighting mold with a spray bottle of bleach may not resolve your mold issue.

When people think of mold problems in a home, they think of warm, damp conditions that would allow mold to thrive, but believe it or not, houses and buildings in Arizona can experience mold as well. When a home suffers a water damage event such as flooding, monsoon damage, or even a leaky faucet that has gone unchecked, a mold infestation can quickly arise and spread throughout a home. Because mold can produce allergens and irritants, you will want a professional that has training and experience to resolve the mold infestation properly. If your Phoenix home has experienced any kind of water damage issue recently, your home may need to be tested for mold.

First things first: addressing the source of the mold

If you suspect mold because of a water issue, the first step is addressing the source of the water; otherwise, the mold may return. At SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, we work quickly to address the water issue, then move quickly to focus on the mold problem. Mold spreads quickly, so a minor mold infestation can quickly escalate into a significant problem.

Finding the mold problem

We carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view. We use various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources. Many homeowners are surprised that mold is present even if they don’t experience an odor or see any visible signs of mold. If you have a mold issue, our technicians will find it! Even if the mold isn’t black mold, we’ll still make sure the problem is resolved before any further issues arise.

SERVPRO technicians are mold remediation specialists

As a homeowner, you may want to simply grab a spray bottle of bleach and get rid of that mold ASAP! However, our technicians are mold remediation specialists, which means they know how to not only address the mold itself, but get rid of the water that caused the mold issue, focus on drying the area, and deal with an odor so that the complete issue is resolved. Our complete mold remediation process involves inspection, assessment, containment, air filtration, removal of materials (if applicable), cleaning, and restoration. It’s an in-depth process that goes well beyond a spray bottle of bleach and elbow grease!

It’s been a damp winter in Phoenix so far. If you suspect that there is a water issue in your home that may cause mold, contact us 24/7 at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix by calling (602) 386-4268.

Work with Highly Trained Professionals for Your Phoenix Commercial Cleaning Needs

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has been a name people can trust for all their residential disaster services such as fire damage restoration, mold remediation and more. Did you know that SERVPRO of Central Phoenix offers commercial cleaning services too?  We do! SERVPRO offers a full array of commercial cleaning options for businesses of all sizes, so now you can call us for any residential or commercial cleaning need!

Commercial cleaning services for your everyday needs

Common wear and tear gradually soils your office. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you can call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix for prompt service. Our service offerings can help in removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, so your workspace look its very best. The every day commercial cleaning services we offer include:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization

When your regular cleaning crew just isn’t cutting it, SERVPRO’s highly trained team of service professionals can get the job done.

Commercial cleaning for unforeseen circumstances

When your business suffers a loss that requires professional cleaning, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is the only business to call! We offer several commercial cleaning services for businesses of any size, including:

• Biohazard Cleanup
• Sewage Cleanup
• Trauma and Crime Scene Cleaning
• Vandalism

When any of these unforeseen needs arise, rest assured that our crew has specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Of course, we also offer our premiere flood restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation and storm damage recovery services as well. Your business can rest assured knowing that no matter what disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can be onsite, 24/7, to help.

Big cleanup job?  No problem!

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is comprised of our best of the best in restoration services. Our elite large-loss specialists are highly qualified and strategically positioned throughout the US to handle any size disaster, anywhere in the country. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. If your business suffers a significant loss, you’re in good hands with SERVPRO.

Now that you know SERVPRO of Central Phoenix handles both residential and commercial cleaning services, why use anyone else? Call us at (602) 386-4268 for any needs that you have, big or small!

Get Help with Odors Caused by Fire Damage in Your Phoenix Home

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

You recently experienced one of the most traumatic incidents a homeowner can face: fire in your home. The flames are out, leaving significant damage, not to mention the water damage done by the firefighters battling the flames. On top of all that, there now permeates an odor throughout your home you’re certain you’ll never get out. Now what? You need to get professional help with odors caused by fire damage When your Phoenix home becomes inundated with these odors, it’s time to call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix.

The odors can linger from fire damage

Once your Phoenix home sustains fire damage, the smell of smoke and soot can linger indefinitely. While these odors slightly improve when the air becomes drier or when the temperature decreases, they never truly disappear without professional intervention. Structural mitigation and restoration do very little to alleviate an odor problem that can make your family miserable and almost unbearable to stay in the house. Odors from soot particles left behind by burning plastics and other synthetics can make food taste bad, your clothing smell, and even cause health effects in some individuals. SERVPRO's Odor Control Technician (OCT) can help eliminate the odors you’re experiencing, and do it quickly.

Fire mitigation and next steps

Through our fire damage mitigation efforts, we eliminate most of the smoke residue in your home. If your ventilation system was running during the fire (heating, cooling, bathroom or kitchen exhaust, etc.), soot could have found its way inside and into adjacent areas which in turn traps odors. Areas behind cabinets, above ceilings, and inside walls hide soot particles as well, but our professionals know how to seek these areas out and get to the root of the odors.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call, and leave the restoration to us. We use a technique to get to these particles wherever they might hide. Instead of removing them manually, thermal fogging eliminates their ability to return to your home's air. The forced mist spreads out in the same way the smoke did and chemically bonds with any loose soot particles. The added weight makes it impossible for the soot to get lifted back into the air currents that travel through your home, keeping your family from smelling them again.

Odors can be challenging to fight

Other areas that might hold onto odors include carpeting and drapes. While soot can remain trapped here and thermal fogging might not reach all of the residue hiding in the backing and pad underneath carpeting, we can still treat the area with potent and long-lasting liquid deodorizers. We can inject these directly into the absorbent padding. Other areas that continue to harbor odor sources often respond well to hidden gel packs, of which we have several different scents. These also last a significant amount of time.

Proper training in odor removal

We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor, and determining the conditions where it contacts surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly. Call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 to make sure that every aspect of your home's fire damage mitigation, including the elimination of odors, is handled professionally and by skilled specialists.

Why SERVPRO is Phoenix’s Best Choice for Biohazard Cleanup

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

No mess is an easy mess to clean up, but biohazard cleanups and restoration are especially difficult. Biohazards due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional, which is why it’s important to work with a company that is compassionate, professional and well-trained to handle all aspects of biohazard clean up. Only specially trained disaster restoration company technicians are certified to complete this disturbing and necessary job. SERVPRO offers this critical service in our community.

Crime scene cleanup

Crime scene cleanup are the most difficult for homeowners to face. As the authorities depart from the crime scene (your home), it’s important to arrange for a biohazardous cleanup of your Phoenix home. Our highly trained trauma and crime scene cleanup division helps you with this challenging task. Our technicians are trained to follow all federal, state, and local rules to keep both you and the work crew members safe until the job is complete. When a crime happens in your home, understanding how to handle the situation is critical. Our technicians know that nothing can be touched until an official inquiry is conducted and completed. If the scene resulted in a situation where there might be blood and other bodily fluids and tissues, they understand that potential bloodborne pathogens may be present, and take great care to handle the situation carefully and professionally, following Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines. SERVPRO ensures that all technicians attending to the cleanup of a crime scene have the appropriate training and certifications.
 
Sewage backups

Similar to crime scenes, fecal and other matter that may occur in a home after a backup needs to be handled carefully, understanding that cleanup also needs to involved potential odor control. As a matter of fact, Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix’s trained technicians know there are three types of water that they may be dealing with: clean water, grey water and black water. Grey water, considered a category 2 contaminated water, may contain bacteria and viruses. Black water, considered a category 3 contaminated water, is extremely contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested. Any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth. Sewer backups and similar conditions should be handled immediately. With SERVPRO’s 24-hour emergency services, consumers have a place to turn to in Phoenix.

Chemical spills and other biohazards

Believe it or not, chemical spills do happen in the home! Exposure to chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances from your home as quickly as possible can contribute to an unhealthy and dangerous situation. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations. They are equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products and can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe homes and offices. If you experience a chemical spill in your home, do not try to do clean up on your own! It’s important to call a trained professional

 
Should the unthinkable happen and you need biohazard cleanup, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268. Everyone on staff will help you out during this difficult time.

How to Get Professional Help for Water Damage in Your Central Phoenix Home

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

Water can be rough on a home. It can penetrate solid materials like concrete or blocks if given enough time. It can make its way into any crack or crevice found on your property without you even being aware that the damage is being done. When you experience water damage from a flood, monsoon, or broken pipe, its important to know how to get professional help to fight the water damage in your home. 

What to look for in a water damage repair company

A professional water damage repair restoration specialist in Phoenix can help you address water issues in your home, regardless of the cause.  Highly trained technicians know exactly what to do to repair and restore your home. When looking for a water damage remediation company, look for one that offers the following:

• 24-hour emergency service
• Highly trained professionals
• A variety of tools to address water damage and restoration
• Advanced water inspection skills
• A process that uses inspection, assessment, extraction, drying, repair and restoration

It’s critical to work with a local company that understands every step of the process needed to restore your home after water damage occurs.

What can cause water damage in your home

 
SERVPRO technicians respond to a variety of water damage situations, providing customers with a solution to each one in detail. Beyond the usual suspects seen in Arizona, including monsoons and busted pipes, customers have had issues with their pool. This can be caused by malfunctioning pool equipment, or a backwash effort gone awry.

SERVPRO also responds to a variety of issues concerning washing machines or dishwashers, another fairly common cause of a household flood or water damage situation. A malfunctioning appliance can flood your home within minutes, leaving little time to react and causing serious damage to your flooring, furniture, and belongings, or even leading to additional hazards that make it hard to recover.

Why you need a company that understands what kind of water damage restoration is needed
 
All of the situations above introduce different kinds of damage. Flooding from an AZ monsoon may bring dirty or even tainted water into the home. A flooded pool could bring chlorinated water into the home. A broken machine may flood your home with soapy or bleach-tainted water. If a water heater bursts, water and sediment can cause real issues. Knowing how to address the damage from the water and what kind of repair will be done is important for effective restoration. It takes industrial-grade water extraction equipment and infrared moisture detectors to get water out of every nook, cranny and crevice. Cleaning, deodorization, and sanitation technicians with the proper IICRC certification provide you with your best opportunity for recovery, regardless of how the damage was done
 
If you suffer water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to receive quality service; we can help you recover from most of the problems that occur in your home call (602) 386-4268 to learn more

Commercial Buildings and Fire Safety 2019

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Prepare your business with an updated fire safety plan.

So, you’re re-evaluating fire safety your place of business and you’re wondering what you are lacking in order to achieve NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) compliance. Okay, maybe not, but if you are a business owner with commercial property then fire safety should be a priority. There isn’t one commercial building that is guaranteed safe from a fire, so being prepared with the right equipment and emergency plan can save you a lot of money and lives in the event of a fire breakout. 

There are more than 3,300 office building fires in  the US every year, according to the NFPA. All these fires rack up approximately $112 million in damage to commercial property. If being compliant with NFPA is a business goal for 2019, then let’s get to it. If at any time you have questions, call your local fire department or a company that provides fire damage restoration, like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix a call! We can help. 

Smoke and Fire Alarms

Smoke and fire alarms are a no-brainer necessity to a fire protection and damage plan for all commercial buildings. Once installed, they need to be inspected often to maintain functionality. Today we have a variety of options for smoke and fire alarms, but wireless is probably more appropriate and effective for commercial property. With a smoke and fire alarm system in place, make sure there is a plan of action should the alarm sound off.

Fire Extinguishers & Suppression Systems

When trying to avoid potential fires at work, make sure that the property is outfitted with the designated amount of fire extinguishers. They need to be tested regularly to make sure they always work. The same goes with all fire suppression systems like an automatic sprinkler system - test often.

Emergency Exit Lighting

Emergency exits signs that light up should be installed throughout the property to direct occupants to safety during a fire alarm. Always make sure that the emergency exit is clear of anything that could get in the way.

First Aid Supply Kit

A first aid kit should be on hand, fully stocked at all times. Invest in something that will suffice in a worst case scenario. Have it regularly checked on to be sure it is always full.

Fire Safety Training

Incorporating a fire safety training course will not only place confidence in employees,but will also serve as an excellent team-building workshop. Contact your local fire department and they’ll be happy to give you the  information.

Emergency Fire Evacuation & Preparedness Plan

A popular acronym that could be included in your business fire emergency plan is REACT; Remove from danger, Ensure doors and windows are shut, Activate the alarm, Call 911, and Treat the situation as dangerous. Have schedule set for your commercial building to be inspected for any potential fire code issues. The fire department will also do it for free and you won’t get any violations. Have regular fire drills and educate employees so that they are familiar with how to work the fire equipment.

When Fire Damages Your Office Building

Also, be sure to have a list of emergency numbers on hand. It should include a repair and restoration company for commercial fires. That’s just one of the things we do here at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, and we make sure to be available 24/7 any and every day of the year. Call 602-507-6163 if your business is affected by fire damage.

Can Your Home Really Be Restored After Fire Damage?

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Phoenix homeowners who have suffered from a house fire and the damages it leaves behind have many obstacles to face once the flames have been put out. One question that every homeowner asks is whether their home will ever be the same after experiencing their house burning down. Not only do the flames cause damage, but so does the smoke and the water used to douse the flames, making it hard to believe that a home can ever be restored. Can your home really be restored after experiencing fire damage?  The answer is a resounding “yes!” Learn how the professionals at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix get it done.

Restoring Damages from House Fire

After the fire crews are gone and you’re facing a substantial clean up effort, there are a few critical steps that need to be taken to get your home back to the way it was before the fire.

Here is the fire damage restoration process followed by fire remediation professionals who are well-trained and experienced in situations like these.

Call Fire Remediation Company

Dealing home or commercial property fire can be very stressful and requires great expertise. It is extremely important to call a fire damage company to secure the exposed areas and handle the cleanup, including the repair of soot, smoke and water damage, as well as the smoke odor.

Assessment of Fire Damages

Once a technician from the fire remediation company arrives at the site, they will get to work to immediately assessing the damages. This initial step usually involves inspection of the affected area and its contents to determine how to best approach the situation. They will develop a customized action plan for restoration, including adding a tarp to the roof and board-ups for damaged windows and walls.

Eliminate Items Damaged in House Fire

Residential fire damage professionals eliminate all damaged items along with removing the residual smoke smell using the appropriate techniques. They wear protective clothing and use state-of-the-art equipment to remove the damaged materials before they begin any kind of cleanup. Cleanup may include removing soot from all surfaces, addressing any fire-related odors, and water removal and drying if water is present. These professionals will conduct a thorough inspection of the property to make sure that the fire damage cleanup efforts are successful.

Begin Restoration for House Fire

The goal of the repair and restoration process is to try and return the home to the state it was before the fire damage. We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the affected items and structures that were damaged in the house fire. We’re also trained to remove smoke odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment. 

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has been helping both residential and commercial properties affected by fire get back to preloss conditions within a short amount of time utilizing our own in-house Restoration Construction Division run by Temple, a licensed and bonded KB2 contractor, as part of our construction building services.

A home fire can be a traumatic experience, but cleanup damage restoration don’t have to be! Contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 any day of the week. We’re here for you 24/7 every day of the year!

Dangers With Standing Flood Waters in Phoenix

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

There are storms, hurricanes and tornadoes that cause unfathomable devastation, and standing flood water, waiting for cleanup, can aggravate that devastation even more. Cleanup and Restoration companies get a lot of calls for local storm damages in Phoenix during the monsoon season with some involving flood waters left standing for a period of time. Some severe dangers come with standing flood waters but can prevented when being proactive and understanding the risks beforehand and being equipped with tools to cope with anything that is threatening. 

When the flood waters that come from a local storm are left sitting for some time, the health of anyone living around it is at risk. The CDC website has a lot of valuable information dedicated to the health risks and hazards from standing flood waters and how to prevent, and cope with what can and does happen.

Flooding can infect everything and everybody it touches with life-threatening diseases and bacterial infections. All your belongings become hazards to your health when they have been touched by the flood waters that still stand. It is essential that you do not drink or eat anything that was affected by the flood and that you are diligent about keeping your hands clean, especially before eating or drinking.

Health Risks from Standing Flood Water

Being aware and proactive with any open wounds on your body is extremely important. Any standing water from a storm poses an even greater risk to your well-being if you have any open wounds, it’s crucial that you protect them from any standing water and always use waterproof bandages.

Physical Risks from Storm Floods

In addition to all the health risks that come with floods from a storm are the physical risks. When flood waters sit for a period of time, they become murky, hiding other threats like poisonous insects and dangerous animals along with very sharp objects like broken glass. All storm flooding situations are unique to the region which they occur in, along with their own unique physical hazards also.

Parts of the local storm damage, like power lines that remain in the standing flood waters add to the list of threats with electrocution. Event the flood waters alone are a hazard claiming too many lives from drownings that occurred victims were in their vehicles or swimming to safety..

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix knows all about disasters, and. our technicians are well-trained, experienced and completely equipped for  a disaster of any size. Though, a catastrophic disaster is a “once in a lifetime” event, all it takes to turn your entire world upside down is that one disaster. Want to know more or need our assistance? Give us a call 24/7 any day of the year 602-386-4268.

What to Do After a Water Main Break

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

It’s unfortunate and overwhelming, but when a water main breaks, what to do next is very critical. A break in a water typically affects roads and the surrounding properties, causing a lot of water damage to residential and commercial property. If you live or own property near a water main, you are also at risk of costly water damages if and when the main breaks. What is a water main and what are the common signs of a break, and what should you do after it happens? 

What is a Water Main

The main pipe that provides water throughout the city is called the water main. Typically, most water mains and other pipes are all under the city grounds. Today, water mains are constructed of concrete cement. A lot of the old water mains were constructed of cast iron, and the really old ones were made of galvanized steel. Though they are very sturdy upon installation, when they break, thousands of dollars in water damages caused by the water main break leave everyone feeling overwhelmed.

Things You Should Do After Water Main Break

• One of the first things you should do after the main water line breaks is call the Phoenix Water Department and report what happened. The sooner they are aware of the issue, the sooner services will resume normally and water damages are mitigated.
• Limit the amount of water everyone uses while the water main break is letting out water. Do not drink the tap water and avoid using the bath or shower, laundry machines, or the dishwasher. Some situations will have the local authorities issue a warning to boil all water. Boiling water for 5 minutes should suffice.
• Look around your property and see if there are any water damages. Walk all around starting from the crawlspace or basement and work your way up. Document any damages from the water main break that you find. Then call your insurance and SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, your trusted emergency water damage specialists who are available 24/7 every day with an immediate response.
• When the water main break has been repaired or replaced, run all faucets and hoses until the water is clear. Run the dishwasher and the washing machine without soap a couple of times and then a third time using soap only.
• You should then flush out your hot water tank by opening the hot water tank faucets and let them run until the water turns cool. Repeat this process a second time after about an hour so that the sediment inside will clear out.
• Inspect  the aerator on all the faucets for any debris. You many need to replace some of the aerator screens, but make sure they are all clean of any debris. Any under sinks or house water filtration systems should have their filters replaced also.
• Don’t forget the water dispensing systems on the refrigerator. Run the water for several minutes and then change the filter. With ice makers, let it continue to make ice, but refrain from using any of it for several days.

What Causes a Main Water Line Break?

Although there a hundred ways a water main will break, one of the more common ways is due to the age and the environmental temperature. Since installation, a water main goes through a lot of wear and tear which can lead to a failure. 

When colder temperature begin to freeze the ground, the ground begins to harden and contract putting immense pressure against the water main. Seldomly, the water inside can freeze as well which then adds pressure pushing out from within the water main. Warmer  and drier temperatures tend to make the grounds shift, crack and settle which causes some twisting and the water main breaks spraying water until help arrives

If you live or work near a water main, keep an eye out for any signs of it breaking and be sure follow these tips to prevent and mitigate water damage.

Hidden Mold Problems in Phoenix Homes

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

Get rid of attic mold growth! Call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix!

Attic mold can lead to a variety of problems that can get out of control. Unfortunately, many homeowners rarely inspect their attic, so mold issues can often go unchecked until the mold growth is substantial. If you find mold, you’ll need professional mold remediation to address the problem quickly and thoroughly.

Phoenix Homes Get Mold Growth

Your Phoenix area home is just as susceptible to mold damage as any other home due to the risk of water leaks, which can come from monsoon rains, A/C units or other water sources. While your attic is the last place you think about when discussing mold on your property it’s more common than you think! With the potential risk of hidden water links, you should have your attic inspected by a mold remediation specialist to find any issues and address them quickly.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has well-trained mold remediation technicians with years of experience in mold damage situations throughout a home. There are many areas in your home where mold can get out of hand quickly, and simply drying the area out and cleaning it with a little bleach may not solve the problem, especially in your attic where dampness and darkness are the ideal breeding ground for mold. Mold growth in your attic can cause significant damage to the structural integrity of your home not to mention causing an unpleasant odor that can be tough to get rid of.

Do You Have Mold Contamination in Your Home?

Mold growth and contamination can affect your home’s framing, insulation, walls, ceiling and floors, and unfortunately, often going undetected for a long period of time when it occurs in an area rarely seen by homeowners. If your Phoenix home has recently experienced any kind of water leak, or if you smell an unusual, musty odor, it’s time to call in the professionals to ensure your house doesn’t have mold. Contacting SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at the first signs of mold contamination in your home gives you the ability to prevent excessive damages.  

No water leaks in your home that you know of?  You may not necessarily be off the hook. Improperly installed or insufficient insulation and inadequate attic ventilation can cause mold issues. So can a dryer, plumbing, kitchen or bathroom fans that vent air into the attic. That’s why it’s important to have a professional who is certified in mold remediation to check your home and its attic thoroughly. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix technicians perform a full inspection of your attic space to identify problems like these and provide a solution to remedy issues.  

Local Certified Mold Remediation Specialists

We understand mold and mold growth and have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business. Our IICRC certified technicians have access to a variety of equipment and years of experience helping homeowners in Phoenix deal with mold issues. Contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix for additional information or to schedule your inspection and mold remediation today. We can help! 602-386-4268.

Commercial Water Damage Insurance Claim Tips

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

One of the major risks that threatens a business owner is commercial water damage and knowing how you can maximize your commercial water damage insurance claim. There are many components to consider and can be overwhelming to any business owner or manager. Some issues require immediate action just as soon as the water damage has begun in order to save what can still be saved.

Contact a Commercial Restoration Company

Contacting your local and trusted commercial restoration company, like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, will help mitigate the water damages to your commercial property. We’ve seen it and done it many times and know the process well. Our Certified water technicians are available 24/7 everyday for your emergency commercial water damage disaster.

Commercial Property Owners with Water Damages.

Prior to filing, you’ll want to prepare all the information you’ll need to maximize your insurance claim. Ensure that the property is safe to enter and take photos and videos of anything and everything affected, both inside and out. The documentation done initially of the commercial water damage is so imperative when providing the evidence for the initial presentation to your insurance company. Find your commercial property insurance policy and print it so that you have a hard copy of it on hand. 

Contact your disaster restoration service provider and then call your insurance company to give notice of the loss. Be sure that the water damage mitigation company tests the property for potential issues like; mold growth, or any structural damages.

Commercial Property Water Damage Claim Strategy

Your next priority is to develop a plan and strategy with your public adjuster for the commercial water damage claim. A commercial water damage claim can go in so many directions so building out a strategy to stick to will strengthen the claim. Here is a list of questions to go over with your adjuster that will help build your strategy.

1. What are the initial costs for repairs and restorations for the water damaged property?
2. What is the extent of the commercial water damages? The Scope?
3. What are the benefits in the insurance policy contract?
4. What are my duties and conditions stated in the insurance policy?
5. How will interruption to business be claimed?
6. Does the policy have coverage for “Boiler and Machinery” or “Extended Period of Indemnity”?
7. Do any of the damages to the property need to be brought up to code?
8. What is the estimated time for the repairs to the restoration?
9. How long will it take to receive a payment from the claim?
10. How long will the claim settlement process take?

If you’re not prepared with the right tools in you arsenal before filing your claim for commercial water damages, the chances of your business recovering are not so good. At SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, we understand this and work to provide you with everything in our power to help strengthen your claim. We even work with your insurance company to help alleviate some of the stressful impact the situation has on you. Call 602-386-4268 when you need us!

Water Damage Restoration for Documents in Phoenix, Arizona

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

A company in Phoenix that suffered a flood had some water damaged documents that needed restoration.

When a flood occurs on commercial property, the building structure, and company assets are at risk from all kinds of water damages and so are any sensitive documents and files being stored in the building. Water damage to paper products happens quickly, so  when paper products and sensitive documents are affected, immediate action is key in order to stop the damages from compounding only to completely destroy them. 

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix understands the potential loss when documents succumb to water damages during a flood and that timing is everything, which is why our technicians are available for emergency services 24/7 every day.. 

The Restoration Water Damage Experts

With our innovative vacuum freeze-drying system and our process involving gamma irradiation technology for sterilization, we are a full service document restoration and drying  company in Phoenix, Arizona. Our document restoration services cover everything from drying, cleaning and disinfecting to rejacketing and digitizing documents to get your business back to running in no time.

In cases where water damages are from a sewage back up or contaminated flood, documents are exposed to bacteria, viruses and harmful chemicals. With the gamma irradiation technology, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix provides the complete sterilization of all your important documents.

After Document Restorations, Go Digital

After your documents have been restored, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can digitize your documents creating a secure backup that will never be compromised. Or perhaps you haven’t suffered any document water damages, but would just like to convert all paper files to a digital platform, either way you’ll be freeing up an immeasurable amount of storage and space.

Having an emergency plan of action to rely on prior to any disaster happening is the best thing you can do but, it won’t guarantee that water damages will not occur during a sewage back up or a flood. The well trained, master-certified technicians at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix know that timing is key to getting your documents restored to their preloss conditions so that business can go on “Like it never even happened.” With our state of the art technology and advanced techniques we can provide you with the best document restoration in Phoenix. 

So if you ever find yourself in need of document restorations due to water damages, or if you just want to back up your sensitive files to a digital platform, give us a call at 602-386-4268 - available 24/7 for emergency services.

Mold Growth After a Monsoon Storm

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Storms produce several constant issues for any property owner. A main problem brought on by storms is the moisture which contributes to a lot of mold growth that requires professional remediation. There are some methods to help prevent the mold growth from causing any damages from occurring after a monsoon storm that are pretty effective.

Mold growth has a couple of primary sources from which it gets it nutrients from which are wood and moisture. With many properties having wood as a major element, this serves as a prime breeding ground for mold to grow and multiply.

Mold Growth Challenging Property Owners

Many property owners find it challenging to keep up with regular maintenance of the property and the property has been affected by storm damages already, leaving holes that allow moisture in leading to mold growth.

Basements within residential homes is a common place where mold will grow or in the attic too. In fact attics can have a significant mold problem after a monsoon storm. When a roof is compromised by holes or gaps, moisture will get into the area and remain trapped causing mold and mold spores.

Mold will grow whenever or wherever there is moisture present and after a monsoon storm, the ground surrounding the property is saturated with moisture.As moisture permeates throughout the property, it will seek out sources of nutrients such as wood based elements within the structure.

Mold Mitigation and Removal

Mitigating mold damage after a monsoon storm, if not done properly, can create multiple colonies of mold growth. When not appropriately dried out entirely, a consistent mold problem becomes an issue.

Mold growth is always a risk after a monsoon storm. To have the mold removed effectively, you need a mold removal specialist to come in and do it right. Trained technicians will help remove the mold growth in the difficult areas with care and precision in order to eliminate the growth of any harmful mold.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix are your local mold specialists, available 24/7/365, call 602-386-4268 for your mold issues.

Tips on How to Remove Black Smoke from Walls

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

Soot from Fire Damage on Phoenix Home Wall

After a fire within your Phoenix home or place of business, the fire restoration process can seem drawn out and quite tedious, but cleaning the black smoke, or soot from the walls is really important.

Being that the crews here at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix have cleaned soot off all kinds of walls, we thought we’d share some tips that help the best.

Black smoke is soot, an amorphous carbon residue left behind after an incomplete burning of organic matter. Especially when it comes to soot, cleaning up after a fire is typically done by professionals as it can be very difficult.

Cleaning up After Fire Damage

The first tip for cleaning soot off walls after a fire is wear protective clothing. It is also highly recommended that you wear a respirator while cleaning and be sure it has a good filter in it. The respirator will prevent the small particles from going into your lungs when you breathe, protecting you from many soot related health issues.

Another tip for cleaning up the soot damage on walls includes the use of a dry cleaning sponge. Do not use any water with it. After thoroughly vacuuming, use the dry-cleaning sponge starting at the top of the wall and work your way down using downward strokes only. It is important to use the downward strokes rather than a scrubbing motion, as scrubbing will cause the stain to spread. 

A Degreaser Can Do the Trick

Using a degreaser is another way to help remove soot off walls after house or commercial fire damage. Be sure to Rinse with hot water afterwards and allow the walls to air dry for several hours. Ventilate the room by opening all the doors and windows. Setting up some industrial fans will also help.

Soot and Fire Damage Experts in Phoenix

If you’re still having issues, or realize that this is a job for the professionals, call fire and smoke damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, 602-386-4268. Available 24/7 withwell trained and certified techs, we are experienced in utilizing proven methods to remove odors and soot caused by a fire within a Phoenix home or place of business.

What Can I Do Before My Adjuster Arrives After Storm Damages?

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Though the monsoon storms are showing up late this year, it’s inevitable they will come and go without any warnings leaving homes in Phoenix, AZ with severe storm damages. Even if you already have flood and storm damage insurance, eliminating the total damages to your home is in your best interest. Insurance adjusters are very busy during the monsoon season, so being prepared upon their arrival will make them happy and save time in the end.

Documenting Storm Damage 

If your first call was to your insurance company, than your next call should be your trusted storm damage company, like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix. We understand the storm damage restoration process well and our certified techs will help guide you throughout the entire process always informing you of what is going on as well as what to expect. There are many benefits to contacting your storm damage company early on, and they are:

• Initial assessment of all storm damages to your home
• Less time between the initial damages occurring and the water extraction which will prevent even more damages
• You will have your itemized list of all things damaged by the storm, needed for the claim.
• You will have photos taken of all things damaged by the storm, which will improve the chances of your claim being accepted.

Storm Damage Specialists

When the monsoon is up and running, you can be sure that local adjusters are at their busiest, making their ability to get to you in a timely manner less feasible. By preparing before their arrival with all the storm damage documentation done to your home, and having already contacted the restoration company, you will be making things easier on your adjuster which in turn will support things getting done faster. Storm damage companies in Phoenix are always ready for an emergency, so the chances of them getting to you first are in your favor.

One thing you can do to improve your ability to get your claim accepted is by taking some video of the affect property and items. Collect all receipts of the damaged property if you can. If it has been more than a few days since the initial storm damage and the arrival of the restoration company, video is especially helpful as there has most likely been some mold growth by now which may require mold remediation and removal.

Call Your Local Storm Damage Experts

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is prepared and ready for any size storm damage that may come with the monsoon storms. Our customers are our top priority and we take our services seriously! Available 24/7 for your storm damage disasters, call 602-386-4268. We respond Faster to Any Size Disaster!

When is it Safe to Resume Business After a Flood?

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage

It’s a common question to ask after a flood to a commercial building, when is it safe exactly for normal business to resume? All in all it depends on how bad the flood damage was along with if the damage was caused by black water or not. Your local flood restoration specialists will have a process that makes sure the property is effectively clean and sanitized in order for business to resume, but there are stages within this process that are not safe for owners and staff to return.

Commercial Flood Water Damage Cleanup

During the stage of the flood cleanup, the commercial restoration company will let you know that this is not a safe time to return. The flood water gets contaminated with all kinds of bacteria that create a dangerous health hazard to humans. You’ll be instructed to keep all personnel away at this time.

Demolition after Commercial Water Damage

There may be some demolition needed in order to restore the commercial property to it’s preloss condition after the flood water damage. This includes taking out any part of the property that has been affected by the flood which could be drywall, insulation, carpet and any furniture. It’s not yet safe to return during this stage either.

Commercial Building Sterilization

This stage of sterilizing the commercial property includes a deep scrubbing and disinfecting throughout the affected area to make sure it is all sanitized. The stage of sterilizing includes the use of some very powerful cleaning chemicals, making it also not safe for owners and staff to return yet.

Commercial Reconstruction Post Flood

The stage of reconstruction is safe enough to return, but may be challenging to resume as normal. It includes rebuilding and replacing all property that was compromised during the demolition.

Commercial Flood Damage Cleanup and Restoration

It happens a lot when a commercial flood gets contaminated and becomes black water, so any flood damages should be properly assessed and processed by flood experts like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix.

Cleaning a Home Damaged by Fire Smoke

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

Knowing how to clean the smoke from your fire damaged home is not common knowledge. During a house fire, or basically any fire at all, the smoke penetrates all kinds of household surfaces, including carpets, flooring, furniture and even walls. Fire smoke contains odorous, tiny particles that attach themselves to a surface leaving the smell hard to remove. 

The odor from smoke is extremely difficult to get rid of, and really never goes away completely. The lingering smoke odor can cause  nausea and headaches. Attempting to use things like aerosols and perfumes will only help dilute the odor, but unless the tiny particles are appropriately eliminated, removing the odor from fire smoke will be impossible. Ideally, you should call your trusted fire and smoke damage restoration company, like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, but there are a couple of things you can try first that have been successful.

So, How Do I Clean Fire Damage Smoke

Initially, for cleaning up smoke damage,  use some mild soap to wash any surfaces affected by the fire damage is your best bet. Wash all clothing or have them dry cleaned. Comb through the entire house and dust all items. For carpeting, lay down a layer of baking soda and let it sit for 24 hours before vacuuming it up. Then steam clean them along with the upholstery on any furniture.

Have your HVAC system cleaned by a professional and remember to use an air purifier during the entire process of cleaning the smoke from the fire damage in your home.. 

White vinegar is highly effective in cleaning smoke from items affected in a house fire. It eliminates odors naturally. While your at it, place bowls of vinegar in rooms also affected by the smoke, and leave them there for several days. The same thing can be done with baking soda as well.

Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Services

Or you can save yourself the hassle and call the professionals you trust at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix.  With unique equipment and highly advanced techniques, all your things will smoke odor free in no time. Call 602-386-4208 so that  we can get your things odor free and cleaned for good.

Top Reasons for Water Damage in Commercial Buildings

6/30/2019 (Permalink)

No business owner wants to find water damage within their commercial building. Having to shut down business for the repair and restorations to occur can be very costly.

Fortunately SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has your back, as we cover any and all water damage mitigation, restoration and reconstruction necessary to restore your commercial property back to it’s pre loss condition.

One of the top common reasons for water damage within a commercial building is due to a broken pipe. Commercial building plumbing systems transport large amounts of water to and from the building every day putting a lot of pressure on the pipes. Once a pipe bursts, it causes an awful lot of flooding in such little time. 

Commercial buildings are famous for having water damages caused by a sewer backup. Most of the sewer backups are caused by the improper disposal of paper products. When a sewer backup happens, immediate response is key and due to the fact that the water contains contaminants, it’s necessary to evacuate the entire building while the sewage cleanup and restorations take place.

Making sure fire sprinklers are installed in all the necessary rooms of a commercial building is required by the Phoenix Fire Code. However, when the sprinklers go off unprovoked due to a malfunction within the system, the amount of water damages needing repair can be outrageous. Have the sprinklers regularly maintained and inspected in order to prevent this happening in your commercial property.

Even when all precautions are taken, water damages in commercial buildings still happen all to often. The professional techs at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix are available and ready 24/7 for immediate response to your water damage needs. Call 602-386-4268.

Monsoon Storm Damage Recovery in Phoenix

6/30/2019 (Permalink)

Phoenix storm damage - uprooted tree from the monsoon

Very soon now Mother Nature’s monsoon season will start acting out in Phoenix, Az, causing havoc leaving the valley in desperate need of emergency flood and storm damage and recovery. The monsoon storms will come and go without any warnings for the next few months bringing a lot of wind, dust, and rain. The dust in particular can be hazardous in itself when it comes rolling in like a gigantic wall of dirt, otherwise known as a haboob.

Haboobs are comprised of quick rushes of winds referred to as micro-bursts. These micro-bursts can be extremely powerful, swiftly making their way through the valley neighborhoods, leaving behind many homes and commercial buildings needing immediate storm cleanup and restorations.

Monsoon Damage from Storms

Monsoon brings with it many dangers, some of which are obvious, but the other dangers that arise include damages to residential homes and commercial building structures.  There are some precautions we can take prior to the storms’ arrival that could potentially save you from the headaches associated with monsoon storm damages, not to mention the extra costs needed for restorations.

Tips for Monsoon from Storm Damage Specialists

The first precaution is to stop any and all airflow going into and out of the property. Keep all doors closed. Also close any windows and all vents. Secure anything outside that can be tossed around within the micro-burst winds, and remember, these winds can be very strong.

Our project manager, Tony Baird runs through some other useful tips for dealing with the monsoon season on AzFamily.com. Watch Monsoon Season Tips with Tony Baird of SERVPRO of Central Phoenix.

Storm Damage Restoration Company in Phoenix, Az

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is your trusted source for storm and flood damage repairs and restorations. As the oldest SERVPRO in Arizona, customer satisfaction is one of our top priorities and the local valley residents and property owners continue to reflect our commitment when they continue to use our services or recommend our services to others. Our techs are certified, skilled and come with years of experience. Our storm damage specialists are ready to help 24/7 with an immediate response for emergency water damage mitigation and restorations. Call 602-386-4268 when you need prompt storm damage repair professionals.

Flood Restorations for Phoenix Monsoon Storms

6/30/2019 (Permalink)

An uprooted tree from a monsoon storm crushes a home in Phoenix, Az

During the monsoon season, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix provides many valley residents and property owners with storm flooding restorations and water cleanup. Our monsoon storms pretty much sum up any weather catastrophes that we face here in Phoenix, Az.

Emergency Water Damage in Phoenix

Thankfully, most of us live through the monsoon storms without any harm, but the same cannot be said for our cars, homes, and commercial properties needing emergency water damage and storm cleanup services. Trees get uprooted, brick walls are knocked down and patio furniture, even trampolines end up somewhere else due to the strong micro-burst winds.

When Phoenix home and property owners need a repairs in an emergency situation, they can be understandably become overwhelmed, not always knowing what to do first, or what to do at all. That’s when the water damage experts at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix immediately respond with genuine care and understanding along with years of experience.

Restoration Water Damage Experts

Storm damages often require reconstruction and with the in-house Construction Division, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix tops the list of companies that do it all. Run by Temple, our licensed and bonded KB2 contractor bringing in years of professional experience, diligence and hard work!

If not given immediate attention, storm water damages will quickly generate thriving conditions for all kinds of mold, further impacting the property and your life even more. 

Emergency Water Damage Services

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is here for you 24/7 for immediate emergency response to any water and flood damage remediation, restorations and much, much more. Our certified techs will help with any damages and cleanup servicesyour property needs, all while working with your insurance company so that you can get back to your normal life as soon as possible. Call 602-386-4268  when you need storm damage restorations.

Hidden Water Leak Brings Enthusiastic Mold

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Mold within a wall from a hidden leak in a Central Phoenix home

A hidden water leak within your wall will leave you with an overwhelming amount of mold if it goes untreated for a time. You may not even know you have a hidden water leak within your wall for a while and when you finally go to have it taken care of, mold, mold and more mold is found. It’s purple, black, and orange and now it demands to have a professional mold remover to remediate.

So how are you supposed to know if and when you have a hidden water leak behind your wall? Let’s go over some subtle red flags that will help you identify if you have one.

• Prime conditions for mold is moisture and darkness which are generally behind walls and under the floors. If a pipe starts leaking behind a wall mold will grow and spread. If you spot mold in an unexpected place where water doesn't typically collect, you may have a hidden water leak.
• Paint or wallpaper peeling off from walls
• Mysterious mildew smell
• Ceiling or wall that is cracking or buckling with water-stains
• A wall that has a weird stain for no reason at all

If you don’t see any of these red flags, there is an alternative way to find out if you have a hidden water leak within your wall. Here’s what you do.

• Turn off all appliances that use water
• Go to your water meter and write down the number of gallons used by your household.
• Wait about 3 hours or more and during this time refrain from using any water at all.
• Look at the water meter again and if the number has increased, then you’ve got a hidden water leak.

The effects of mold on people can be quite serious. Especially for those with compromised respiratory issues like asthma or mold allergies. Mold from a hidden water leak requires a professional mold remediator and remover like our techs at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix.

Author, Chris Butas, 
Project Manager at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix

Chris Butas is our Senior Estimator and Commercial Project Manager and has been with SERVPRO of Central Phoenix for over 15 years. Chris is IICRC certified as a WRT in water damage restoration and has experience in all types of floods and water damages.

Common Causes of Indoor Flooding & Water Damages

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Indoor flooding that causes water damage to your Phoenix home is one of the worst scenarios you can go through as a homeowner. Water is constantly flowing into your home through sinks, toilets, tubs and washing machines leaving you at risk for a flooded home should something break or malfunction.

With indoor flooding being the leading cause of water damage, learning the top common causes and ways to prevent such a disaster is essential to protecting your investment. First and foremost, it’s important to keep a list of phone numbers handy to your trusted plumber, a water mitigation company, like SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, and your insurance company.

Broken or Leaky Pipes

A leaky pipe is a huge red flag that indoor flooding could easily happen at any given moment. It only takes minutes to flood your home causing major damages that will require the need for water damage repairs. Broken pipes in your walls can cause hidden floods creating the ideal environment for mold, leaving you in need of mold remediation.

Clogged Sewer or Drain Pipes

A clogged up sewer or drain pipe may not seem too threatening at the time, but those clogs can easily cause your sinks, tubs and toilets to overflow and cause a huge disaster of damages which will need sewage cleanup and restoration. It’s always best to play it safe and refer to your plumber to maintain your sewer and drain pipes when needed.

Malfunctioning Washing Machine Hose

A common problem with washing machines is a faulty intake hose, which are responsible for bringing in the water to the machine. A leaky intake hose can quickly flood your home, leaving you in a panic. You can install a machine valve shutoff kit, but there’s still no guarantee your machine will not flood.

Indoor flooding and water damage happens to homes in Phoenix all too often, and though you cannot control it, it’s important to do all you can to prevent it from happening. If you do find yourself in need of flood and water damage restoration services in Phoenix, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, available 24/7 for emergency services. Our certified technicians utilize state of the art techniques to restore your property back to its preloss condition and we will work along with your insurance company.

Author, Chris Butas, 
Project Manager at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix

Chris Butas is our Senior Estimator and Commercial Project Manager and has been with SERVPRO of Central Phoenix for over 15 years. Chris is IICRC certified as a WRT in water damage restoration and has experience in all types of floods and water damages.

Phoenix Infectious Disease Cleanup and Disinfecting

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Health and safety are paramount to a person’s livelihood in Phoenix, Arizona. Infectious disease control, like MRSA and C. diff (Clostridium difficile) prevention, is a primary factor in maintaining the health and safety of those we love and everyone else in the general public. The idea of dealing with an infectious disease outbreak is overwhelming requiring a local Phoenix unique bio-hazard cleanup professional.

Bio-hazardous situations that were brought on by bacteria, viruses and infectious diseases are a very serious problem risking everyone's health. Many times these particular pathogens can not be seen by the naked eye, therefore making the bio cleanup nearly impossible for those not experienced in it. When it comes to decontaminating surfaces and airborne Infectious diseases, it’s important to call on a professional.

Technicians like the ones at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix are licensed by the State of Arizona. They are well trained and skilled in bio-hazard remediation, including disinfecting communicable diseases and come with a lot of experience.

Infectious Diseases & Bio-hazard Cleanup

All infectious diseases make up a bio-hazard situation as well as all bio-hazard situations make up of infectious diseases. It’s paramount to get the most experienced and skilled bio-hazard cleanup crew like the ones here at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, who are certified and follow OSHA’s blood borne pathogen regulations.

The Bio-hazard Cleanup Procedure

The process of a bio-hazard cleanup requires diligence and thorough attention with the appropriate equipment and cleaning chemicals. Removing all traces of biologic material and disinfecting the areas are key in addition to deodorizing. After that, testing the affected areas to be sure that they are free of pathogens is also necessary.

Finally performing a disease control prevention strategy moving forward will help support a healthy and safe atmosphere.

5 Ways to Protect Phoenix Property From Active Brush Fire Season

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Phoenix Valley firefighters are preparing for an active brush fire season this year after all the heavy winter rain we had. In fact, recent strong winds are signaling to the Phoenix Fire Department that the start of brush fire season is approaching.

Washes and alleyways all around the Valley are seeing a lot more over-growth this year. When the sweltering heat dries all those shrubs up, these washes and alleyways now act as corridors that can carry a fire blocks away, leaving your Phoenix home or business property at risk.

SERVPRO of Phoenix all too often sees the devastation of losing a home or place of business to fire damage when, unfortunately they could have been prevented. We’ve come up with the top 5 ways you can protect your property from becoming a disaster.   

1. Eliminate Brush and Shrubbery Around Property

Dead pine needles, leaves and other dead plants serve as a kindling, like when you're attempting to start a fire. Eliminating them is the first thing you'll want to do. It is recommended that you create at least a five-foot barrier around the property that is free of any fire dangers. Use rocks instead of grass or keep your grass short and healthy.

2. Store Firewood Away From Building Structure

Keep firewood and other lumber away from the building structure. It's best to keep the wood in a fire resistant box or at least cover it with a tarp, keeping it a safe distance from the property at all times.

3. Keep Gutters Clean

When gutters aren't cleaned regularly, they fill up with dead leaves and pine needles which will easily spark especially during the hot summer days. Cleaning them regularly keeps them clean of any fire-worthy debris.

4. Check All Smoke Detectors

Be sure to check on the batteries and test the smoke detectors regularly. New smoke detectors on the market can even alert you on your phone to any fire dangers putting your property at risk so that you can take necessary precautions.

5. Always Choose Fire-resistant Roofing and Paneling

Although it may be a bit pricey, ridding your building structure of any wooden shingles or wood paneling on the outside of your property could save you overall from property fire damage.

Phoenix Flooding, Monsoons, Broken Pipes, Punctured Roof? Call SERVPRO to Mitigate the Damage

4/23/2019 (Permalink)

Carpet Restoration and Removal Post Flooding in Phoenix--Professionally Done by SERVPRO

How Flood from an Appliance Damages Your Phoenix Home Affects Carpeting

Some of the most noticeable effects of water damage that happen to carpet and rugs throughout your home are obvious. As they are made from porous and sensitive materials, most carpets are built without significant protection against water and flood intrusion. When a broken pipe spews water that submerges a carpet, it begins to undergo permanent changes that create lasting visual deficiencies in that section of your home's flooring. SERVPRO technicians are skilled at mitigating costs by replacing as little damaged material as possible, but after some of these effects, at least partial restoration features in many of our jobs.

Shrinking Carpets
One of the most obvious ways that carpet in your Phoenix home can sustain flood damage is through shrinkage of the material. As water fills the porous spaces between the fibers that compose your carpeting, those spaces expand and stretch out farther than they would when dry. As the water dries out, the gaps close again but may shrink far beyond what may be required to return to normal. Shrinking carpets also pull on tack strips and any other structural elements attached to the floor. In the case of the shrinkage being caused by groundwater flooding, then the wet materials must be discarded.

Bacterial and Fungal Growth
The longer it takes to remove water from your carpet, the more opportunities microbes such as mold and bacteria have to start to grow and form colonies in your home. Because these can sometimes cause health effects, they should be taken seriously and handled by a certified remediation company like SERVPRO.

Color Bleed
The pigments used in many carpets and rugs can begin to break down and bleed into nearby materials when soaked in water. A fast response is critical to ensure that all relevant materials can be separated and any existing discoloration can be rectified or at least stymied. SERVPRO responds Faster To Any Size Disaster to ensure that time-sensitive issues such as color bleeding cause as little damage as possible to your home.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is a fully certified provider of home damage mitigation and restoration services. Call us 24/7 for emergency help at (602) 386-4268.

We have a lot of attractions here.
 

Introducing the Simple Way to Phoenix Fire Damage Remediation Success

4/21/2019 (Permalink)

Odors can remain in the debris and in the walls of your home after a fire. Contact SERVPRO for effective fire damage remediation.

SERVPRO has the Equipment to Tackle Fire Odor in Phoenix

The only thing worse than fire damage in a home is being reminded of it every time you enter a room and smell those faint smoke odors left behind. That is why it is crucial, even with a minor fire, to have your home professionally restored so the unpleasant smell of soot can also be removed.

SERVPRO was called to mitigate fire odor in a Phoenix home left behind by a frying mishap in the kitchen. The smoke and soot damage was not severe, but as with most protein-type fires, the pungent odor was strong.

When SERVPRO technicians arrived, there were still tell-tale signs of the fire due to the discolored walls and ceiling area around the stove. Odor-causing particles can hide in the smoke residue, and it is important to remove. Our technicians used wet sponges with our deodorizing cleaning solutions to wipe away the traces on the walls and other surfaces affected by smoke and soot.

Protein fires are particularly tough to clean because the protein-rich fibers in foods such as meat or eggs burn as a nearly invisible mist and coats everything in the general vicinity with a fine layer that is difficult to see but has a scent. Worse, porous items such as upholstery on kitchen chairs, soak it up and require deep cleaning to remove the odor.

We have numerous techniques and methods for odor control, and we apply them depending on the unique circumstances and the level of treatment needed. The odor left in the kitchen was still potent even after thoroughly hand cleaning the affected parts of the room. One of our most powerful pieces of odor control equipment is an ozone machine which as the name implies, generates ozone. When ozone comes into contact with odor-causing molecules, oxidation happens, and the odor is removed at the molecular level.

Fire odor can be a terrible reminder of a fire in your kitchen. Call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268; we have the equipment and expertise to eliminate odors left behind by fire damage.

Click here for more information about the city of Phoenix.

SERVPRO Understands That Flood Removal Needs To Happen Fast In Phoenix

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Our team has the training, expertise, and advanced equipment to restore your home to pre-damage condition. Call us right away we are available 24/7.

Flood Removal in Phoenix Attic Needs Fast Action

Water from a storm doesn't have to spread over a large part of the home to cause flood damage. A water intrusion in a small area can do several types of damage ceilings, walls, flooring, wet objects and the potential for mold growth.

When a roof gets damaged in a Phoenix home and water enters the attic space, flood removal needs to happen as quickly as possible to mitigate damage. Sometimes when space is limited, we have to get creative to get the job done. If the repair to the roof is not done during the time our technicians are working, they can apply a temporary barrier to prevent any additional water from entering until the repair is completed.

Standing water needs to be removed to halt any further damage to the home and contents. SERVPRO technicians can use long hose attachments on extractors to get rid of the standing water in the attic that is too small to bring much equipment into.

Soaked insulation is removed so moisture is not retained. We position air movers and dehumidifiers to move air out and lower moisture as fast as possible. If the ceiling below the attic is showing signs of water saturation, technicians can drill weep holes to assist with drying. We use moisture probes to determine how far reaching the water intrusion was so there is no potential of mold growth from untreated areas.

After drying, SERVPRO technicians wipe down the affected areas to sanitize and inhibit the growth of bacteria and microbes. If affected drywall cannot be saved through our drying techniques, damaged sagging drywall is removed for safety. Often drying is enough to eliminate odors left from water. If there are any residual odors, we have the resources to neutralize them thoroughly.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is available 24/7 at (602) 386-4268 when you need flood removal from your home. The faster the process starts, the faster our expert technicians can make it "Like it never even happened."

Click here for more infoprmation about Bike to Work Day, Wednesday, April 17, 2019.

After A Water Damage Disaster In Your Central City Phoenix Home, Call Our Experts Right Away!

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

Professional services are a sure way of getting your home back to its preloss condition.

Tackling Staining During Water Cleanup In Central City Phoenix

Residential water spills require professional assistance to limit staining to furniture as well as guarding against secondary mold growth. Excess water in the home can be the result of a leak after heavy rainfall, a split pipe or a malfunctioning appliance. In some cases, the amount of liquid can cause problems with your subfloor or move underneath fittings. We have trained technicians who can help to clean staining and remove water.

One of the primary jobs we do is water cleanup in Central City Phoenix homes. SERVPRO equips our staff with a full range of chemical cleaning agents that can help to get your property back to preloss condition. Full sterilization using products like chlorine can pose a risk to your indoor air quality which is why we mainly use sanitizers, disinfectants, and antimicrobial treatments to keep your property safe during service.

All types of water contain some microbes. In the circumstances of a burst pipe or broken appliance these microbes can cause odors and staining; mainly if the water is stagnant. Other times, odor particles are released from furnishings which are loosened after coming into contact with moisture. Using a combination of cleaning sanitizers and drying techniques SERVPRO can limit the presence of odors in the home.

The first stage of the process is to clean staining from fabrics or walls while the surface texture is still wet. The likelihood of a successful restoration of upholstery is higher before stains are allowed to set. Using agitative cleaning methods, alongside foam cleaning for sensitive fabrics SERVPRO can target the damage before it becomes a permanent issue.

The second stage of the process is to dry the affected area thoroughly. Lingering odors commonly dissipate once the area is dry. We use portable extraction units to remove and dry water. Dehumidifiers can help to replace moisture with drier air as well as removing it from fabrics. Finally, we can use spray deodorizer on surfaces to ensure the offending odor is neutralized while they dissipate.

Professional services are a sure way of getting your home back to its preloss condition. Contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 to arrange service.

Click here for more about Central City Phoenix.

Why SERVPRO Is The Leader In Phoenix Flood Removal Services

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

When you are faced with flood damage to your home we are ready and waiting 24/7 to help you with all your restoration needs.

Flood Removal in Phoenix Attic Needs Fast Action

Water from a storm does not have to spread over a large part of the home to cause flood damage. A water intrusion in a small area can do several types of damage ceilings, walls, flooring, wet objects and the potential for mold growth.

When a roof gets damaged in a Phoenix home and water enters the attic space, flood removal needs to happen as quickly as possible to mitigate damage. Sometimes when space is limited, we have to get creative to get the job done. If the repair to the roof is not completed during the time our technicians are working, they can apply a temporary barrier to prevent any additional water from entering until the repair is finished.

Standing water needs to be removed to halt any further damage to the home and contents. SERVPRO technicians can use long hose attachments on extractors to get rid of the standing water in the attic that is too small to bring much equipment into.

We position air movers and dehumidifiers to move air out and lower moisture as fast as possible. If the ceiling below the attic is showing signs of water saturation, technicians can drill weep holes to assist with drying. We use moisture probes to determine how far reaching the water intrusion was so there is no potential of mold growth from untreated areas.

After drying, SERVPRO technicians wipe down the affected areas to sanitize and inhibit the growth of bacteria and microbes. If affected drywall cannot be saved through our drying techniques, damaged sagging drywall is removed for safety. Often drying is enough to eliminate odors left from water. If there are any residual odors, we have the resources to neutralize them thoroughly.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is available 24/7 at (602) 386-4268 when you need flood removal from your home. The faster the process starts, the faster our expert technicians can make it "Like it never even happened."

Click here for more information on current programs at the office of Arts and Culture.

Trusted Fire Damage Options For Residents Of Phoenix

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning your property the right way is extremely important for restoration. Contact our SERVPRO technicians to come out and assess the fire damage.

Our Team is Trained in ALL Aspects of Fire Damage Remediation

As a resident of Phoenix, it is advisable to know the right steps to take once your property suffers a fire damage incident. Different levels of fires require different restoration measures, and as a result, it is advisable to contact licensed service providers to mitigate further damage. These are professionals who are IICRC certified and use relevant tools and procedures to restore your contents. 

There are three kinds of fire damages that any resident of Phoenix is likely to experience - minor, medium and major fire damages. Each is associated with varying amounts of smoke residues, affects different areas, and the severity of the disaster differs. While wet or dry cleaning can be enough to restore minor fire damages, extensive procedures may be required when restoring specific fire disasters. Our SERVPRO technicians inspect your property to determine the extent of the damage before conducting appropriate restoration procedures.

Cleaning is one of the procedures that may be recommended. Before this procedure can start, it is essential to know the kind of residues, the surface they are resting on, and how to find, remove and dispose of them. After pretesting and inspecting the residues, a technician can choose the right restoration method to use.

After our SERVPRO technicians have identified the residues, they capture and remove them using specialized techniques such as vacuuming and dissolving. When a fire burns, it gives off smoke residues that attach to the surrounding surfaces. When these residues are loosely attached to an area, removing them using vacuuming might be an option. Before performing vacuuming, our qualified technicians always ensure the area is dry.

When the residues are firmly attached to the surface, dissolving them may be necessary. We use cleaning products to dissolve the particles and later on flush, rinse and dry the area once it is clean. After the cleaning process, SERVPRO technicians follow the local requirements to dispose of the particles.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has several options to mitigate mold, fire, storm and water damage disasters. Call us at (602) 386-4268 to be served by a proven industry leader.

For more information regarding the city of Phoenix, click here.

Water Damage To Your Phoenix Home Due To Appliance Failure

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

Broken Hoses and Clogged Machines Cause Water Damage in Phoenix

Call SERVPRO for Water Cleanup in Your Phoenix Property

The appliances in your house are meant to make your life much more comfortable. Gone are the days where you have to tote your clothes down to the river and wash them by hand. Progress has replaced this former way of life with conveniences like the washing machine. Manufacturers are building these appliances better than they ever were in the past, yet washing machines are not impervious to breaking down or malfunctioning. Even loose connections could spell big trouble for the laundry room and surrounding areas of your Phoenix home. 
 
A broken or ruptured washing machine hose is a common cause of water damage in Phoenix homes. The commonality of this problem does not imply that a broken hose is the only culprit, however. Older appliances are more susceptible to breaking down internally, and bushings and bearings failing to do their job can result in an equally damaging scenario. 
 
If you find that your washing machine is malfunctioning and pouring water onto the floor, you need to act quickly. The first thing that you need to do is to shut off the water supply to the machine by following the lines on the back of the appliance to the plumbing fixtures. Shut off both water lines, regardless if only one is causing the issue. Your next step is to call us at SERVPRO. 
 
Our experienced team responds quickly in these kinds of emergency situations to help get the water cleaned up quickly. Fast responses prevent further damages to adjoining areas of your laundry room and keep the overall restoration process the most concise that it can be. Once the water supply has been shut off, our SERVPRO professionals can get to work on removing the water. Removal is accomplished through many different tools, from full-sized pump trucks to more economical vacuuming and portable pump solutions. 
 
Your satisfaction is a priority, so our specialists ensure that you are brought in to consult through every phase of the restoration process. Your input is an essential aspect of completing restoration and helps our team to finish their job to the high standards you would expect. 
 
While you cannot plan for an appliance to malfunction, you can plan for the experienced professionals you call in the event of a water emergency. Trust us here at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, and give us a call anytime at (602) 386-4268.

About this Desert City click here

How Mold Damage Starts In Phoenix

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

The key catalyst for any mold colony's growth is water.

How Mold Damage Starts

The key catalyst for any mold colony's growth is water. Mold requires a source of excess water to start growing and maintain reproductive rates, and should quickly jump at any opportunities it finds in your home. There are many ways that water can get into your home in Phoenix and cause mold damage, but not all may come to mind even after you find the mold that resulted from them. These are some of the top ways that Valley homes develop mold damage from excess water.

Leaks And Drips
One of the easiest ways to develop mold damage in Phoenix is through leaks and drips in your home. Leaks are caused by loosened or cracked pipes, malfunctioning appliances, holes in the home exterior, and other potential factors. If you ever find a new leak in your home, try to identify its source and patch up the problem as quickly as possible to prevent the issue from blooming into a much more significant mold damage disaster.

Interior Floods
Small flooding events such as overflowing tubs, busted water lines or appliances, and other spills can quickly become a huge deal if mold starts to grow as a consequence of them. When water remains in materials around the home for too long, it encourages mold growth across the entire damp surface of an object. This is one of the top causes of mold damage in carpeting.

High Relative Humidity
Ideally, your home should be below 40% relative humidity at all times. Because we are in Arizona, this issue is much easier to deal with than elsewhere in the country, but you still need to be mindful in your home. If the building has an HVAC issue, this may also lead to higher humidity and encourage relatively rapid mold growth.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is available 24/7 to respond to individuals in the area with severe damage to their homes. Call us at (602) 386-4268 to find out more about how we can help.

Click here for more about the great city of Phoenix.

How Professionals Restore Flood Damage in Phoenix

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

Violent storms can bring heave rain and flooding to Phoenix.

The Immediate Effects of Flooding on Your Phoenix Home

With an average annual rainfall rarely exceeding 8 inches, it might be surprising for many Phoenix homeowners to consider restoration and recovery from flooding. While some might not ever experience this phenomenon in the area, others in the lower lying basins of the region can often find themselves most susceptible to storm damages and other avenues for flooding in their properties. Whenever disasters like these strike, you can count on the fast response and dedicated work of our professionals to make it “Like it never even happened.”

When it comes to flood damage in your Phoenix home, there are many hurdles and obstacles that professional restoration technicians must overcome to restore your property entirely. With flooding, the effects can spread quickly and affect many areas and materials over a brief period. The faster that you can secure the services of our professionals the least likely it becomes for this water to make exposed materials and items unsalvageable.

The best thing that you can do for your home when it gets faced with flood damages of any magnitude is to reach out to our SERVPRO professionals right away. We have a rapid response team that stays ready at a moment’s notice to address emergencies that affect your home. Our production truck gets stocked with effective mitigation, extraction, and drying equipment to ensure that we can make a difference with our initial visit to your damaged property.

Standing water can saturate into materials almost immediately, which can have adverse and unsalvageable effects on elements like drywall in as little as 24 hours. Warping and distortion are where these effects begin, but they can ultimately lead to structural failure and compromise. Our SERVPRO team can work quickly to set up air movers and dehumidification equipment to begin drying out at-risk construction materials right away.

Understanding the effects of floodwater on your property can help you appreciate the need for professional restoration services. Our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix rapid response team is available 24/7 to respond to this emergency and employ our effective mitigation strategies. Give us a call anytime at (602) 386-4268.

How did the city of Phoenix get its name?  Click here.

How Water Damage in Neighboring Units Affects Your Apartment in Phoenix

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

Water leaks from neighboring units can affect your apartment.

Water Damage Experts in Phoenix Talk About Testing Equipment

Whenever moisture makes its way into your Phoenix apartment building, there is a possibility your unit can get negatively affected. Many times, your home can suffer from water damage without you even noticing it. Moisture can soak into your unit from other apartments, and you might not even realize it. Wet materials in other parts of the building can cause humidity to rise inside the entire complex. Humidity can cause water damage issues with your contents and building materials even if nothing inside your unit comes into direct contact with moisture.  

If you know there is a plumbing failure inside your building; it is wise to call in the professionals at SERVPRO. Our highly trained team can tell you if there is water damage inside your Phoenix apartment unit. Our technicians are trained to be able to tell if excessive moisture has affected your dwelling or not. We know what places to look and how we need to check for problems. Through the combination of training and experience, we can tell you whether there is an issue inside your home.

Our SERVPRO technicians use their extensive training achieved by their completion of IICRC certification programs to determine where moisture could have entered your apartment unit. We know how water travels through a structure as well as we know how buildings get built so that we have a good idea of how liquid moves through your apartment complex. Once we get a good idea of where moisture could be, we utilize advanced technology to determine the moisture content of your structural components and personal possessions.  

We have at our disposal various types of moisture sensors that test how moisture affected different types of materials got as a result of the water leak. We use these instruments to figure out how wet your contents and building materials got after the disaster, and the standard moisture content of them when they have not been negatively affected by moisture. If you ever hear about a water leak taking place in an apartment unit near yours, then call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 for fast 24/7 service.

Click here to read more about Phoenix.

Can a Failure of Your Fire Suppression System Cause Water Damage in Phoenix?

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

Inspect your sprinkler systems regularly to make sure they are in top working order.

Water Cleanup After Malfunctioning Fire Sprinklers in Your Phoenix Hotel

If you believe that water damage from your sprinkler system in your Phoenix hotel only happens if a fire starts, it is time for you to take another look at your overhead pipes. Although the system helps keep a blaze from spreading and save lives, it can ruin interiors and equipment as well during a usual workday. You need to be ready for a failure of your fire sprinkler system at your property.

Commercial fire sprinkler systems fail every day. Older system heads and pipes rust and cored, and floor plan changes or remodeling can leave sprinklers too near to heat sources. When a fire sprinkler in your Phoenix business accidentally discharges and causes water damage, it soaks floors, walls, furniture, and anyone unlucky enough to be nearby, and you need water removal services right away from a professional remediation company like SERVPRO.

The best thing you can do to protect your building is to prepare. Ask the installer of your sprinkler system to help you become familiar with it and designate employees on different shifts to respond to any malfunctions. Find the shut-off valves for different areas of the building, as well as the main shut-off valve and know how to operate all of them and turn off the electricity. Keep emergency numbers posted for the sprinkler system company and your insurance agent.

Do not try to do the water cleanup yourself. When a sprinkler head discharges accidentally, they release a spray of dirty water, possibly contaminated with oil, rust, and sediment. The mixture spreads strong, unpleasant odors and stains surfaces. SERVPRO technicians can clean up and restore your building with the right equipment.

Infrared cameras and moisture sensors help us zero in on areas of hidden moisture behind walls, in ceilings and under flooring. Since it is essential to mitigate any standing water as fast as possible, we rely on high-performance extractors to efficiently remove the water on hard surfaces and carpeting. Air movers and special dehumidifiers can help speed up the structural drying after this, producing high-volume airflow in larger areas and drawing moisture from water-damaged environments.

You can also make the claims process easier by documenting the water damage as soon as you can. By doing so, you can demonstrate the extent of your loss to the insurance company, which can help get you’re a fair claims settlement. Detailed videos and pictures of all the affected areas, including the broken sprinklers, soaked floors, and wet walls are essential. Larger items such as furnishings should be left in place so the adjuster can inspect them. Make a file that contains damage documentation, contractor’s estimates, and receipts for any damage-related expenses. We can also help you navigate your specific insurance claims process.

At SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, we want to help you clean up your hotel in Encanto, Camelback East, or Phoenix after a water damage emergency as quickly as possible. When you give us a call at (602) 386-4268, we make sure to get to you quickly so we can restore your building and get your business looking "Like it never even happened."

Click here to read about the history of Phoenix.

How SERVPRO Remediates Fire Damage in Phoenix

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO Franchise professionals to restore your fire damaged home.

When Fire Damage Happens to Your Phoenix Property These Services Get Things Under Control

After a fire happens to someone's Phoenix-area home, the occupants need to face many immediate changes in their lives. The differences between the time before the fire and afterward carry over into work and school, obligations to family and friends, hobbies, and everyday mundane activities. We have several services that help put you back into control over different aspects while others dramatically decrease the amount of damage your personal belongings experience.  

If your home in Phoenix sustains fire damage that makes your home unlivable and needs mitigation and restoration work to make it habitable again, we can help. We have teams of specialists that do this type of work, as well as other teams that take care of other details.  

To protect your home from both the elements and possible intruders, we protect the exterior of your home with board-up services, tarping, temporary fencing, and temporary lighting, if needed. These small acts protect your property but also decrease your liability. Prevention of additional damage by vandals or thefts by those wishing to take advantage of your situation is another benefit.  

One of our teams can do initial cleaning once the structure is deemed safe to enter. We clean these surfaces within the first 48 hours after a fire to decrease the likelihood of permanent etching, marring, and staining caused by soot and smoke residue. Many surfaces that otherwise survive a fire can become unusable because of the corrosion that occurs with even the thinnest layers of the finest soot.  

Boxing up of your personal belongings for cleaning and deodorization at our facility protects them and keeps anything from becoming lost. During this process, we compile a detailed inventory of each item, with any visible damage noted. The inventory sheets allow you to find items you need immediately for your family quickly.  

When items need specialized care from outside restoration experts, as in the case of antiques, fine art, and heirloom or fragile items, we can wrap these in shrink-wrap for extended storage, as well as more secure handling and shipment, if necessary.  

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix offers the residents of Camelback East, Encanto, and the Sky Harbor area these and other services. Fire damage can make your life stressful and feel uncertain. We do our best to bring this phase of your life to a conclusion and work with you every step of the way. Call (602) 386-4268 for skilled professionals who can give you expert guidance during this time.

Read more about Phoenix here.

Learn The Top Three Signs Of Water Damage In Your Phoenix Home

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

Discoloration of the paint on the wall shows water damage and needs restoration. Call our team today and save time and money with their expertise.

Identifying The Tells of Water Damage in Phoenix

Identifying signs of water damage to your Phoenix home sooner rather than later can make a difference of thousands of dollars in restoration expenses. SERVPRO technicians maintain readiness on a 24/7 basis to respond quickly to floods, burst pipes, and other calamities, saving time and money by getting to the job site faster. By identifying and treating problems earlier, we can help to prevent situations such as mold growth and severe oxidation from causing damage to the structural components of your home. Here are a few signs that may indicate water damage in your home.

Discolored Materials
Many materials common in homes in Phoenix show water damage through discoloration. Pigments used in fabrics, paints, flooring, and other surfaces can change color on a permanent or temporary basis when they come in contact with water. The shape, spread, and specific color of these spots can vary depending on how much water has been released, and what materials it has already come in contact with. One of the most destructive processes in a water damaged home is color bleed from one fabric to another, but a fast call to SERVPRO can help to avoid color bleeding.

Unusual Smells
Several different complications of water damage can create unusual and off-putting smells, sometimes very soon after the damaging water incident happens. Oxidizing metals, freshly-soaked wood, and other materials, and long-term mold growth can all create unique and pungent odors in your home. While smells can be useful to identify a problem, you do not want them around forever, which is why SERVPRO technicians use multiple deodorization methods to rid your home of any unwanted smells.

Sounds
Unusual sounds behind walls and below floors could be indicative of a water leak or other plumbing issue in your home. Drips may be obvious when you hear them, but be alert for other unusual sounds as well. Water at high pressure inside pipes in your home can create unique sounds when something is amiss.
SERVPRO of Central Phoenix helps Valley homeowners save big on water leaks, floods, and other disasters in their residences. Call us at (602) 386-4268.

Discover events such as the PHX Vegan Food Festival and more click here.

After A Flood In Your Phoenix Home, You Need To Contact Our Experts At SERVPRO Immediately!

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

Give our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix rapid response team a call at the first sign of an emergency!

Debris Removal And Cleanup After Flooding In Phoenix Homes

Natural disasters can affect Phoenix homes at certain times of the year where heavier rainfall can get expected. While the better part of the year is dry, certain seasons can bring about heavy rains without much warning that can pool above the arid ground without saturating. This phenomenon is one of the ways that flash flooding can occur, and it has affected more homes in the area than many homeowners might care to believe.

It is challenging to prepare for flood damage in Phoenix, but the possibility of this occurrence persists. Recovering from a situation like this is nothing that homeowners can do on their own, and it becomes a situation better left to highly-trained professionals like our SERVPRO team. Our professionals are available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and provide effective mitigation solutions designed to protect structural elements of your home and its contents before they become irreparably damaged by floodwaters.

Securing professional restoration like ours is not difficult to do, but the faster that you react to the situation the better likelihood you have of protecting the belongings and contents of your home that matter most. Debris removal is among the chief concerns for our technicians on site, as these can also be contaminated from outside sources like sewage systems or oil and chemicals to provide a hazard to the occupants of the household. Cleaning up this mess must happen quickly, along with efficient extraction and drying solutions.

Cleaning up the mess within the house after the areas have gotten thoroughly dried can be as basic as steam cleaning and scrubbing lightly affected surfaces, or it can be as involved as removing damaged materials too damaged to preserve. It is a commonplace to remove materials saturated by floodwaters to prevent persistent potential contaminants from existing in the home and reducing the possibility of situations like mold growth.

While you might not expect flooding to occur as readily as it does to area homes, storms and other factors can allow it. Give our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix rapid response team a call at the first sign of an emergency at (602) 386-4268.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Leaks, Storms, & Flooding Can Lead to Mold Growth in Phoenix Homes

1/19/2019 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team is here to help you get the mold monsters out of your home!

Precursors to Mold Damage in Phoenix

Mold damage in Phoenix is not always a random occurrence. Most of the time, some specific events and reasons cause mold to grow in your home, and while they may not always lead to a fungal problem, we have seen enough cases over the years to know just how vulnerable most residences in the area are. Mold grows best in dark, humid environments, and while you might think that weather in the area provides sufficient protection from this threat, the truth is that spores might be waiting for a chance to grow anywhere in your home if any of these events happen.

You've Sprung a Leak

Leaking pipes, faucets, and other water-based fixtures in your Phoenix home could all contribute to mold growth in the near future. Spores grow quickly around any water source they can find, even if the volume of water is very small. So long as moisture remains consistent in the area, the types of hardy fungi found in the desert can start to grow. If you have discovered any leaks in your home or suspect that they may exist, there is a good chance that your home is hiding a past or present mold infestation.

A Storm Came Through

When storms come through the Valley, they create an excellent opportunity for mold to grow in your home. Any leaks in your roofing or siding could contribute to an infestation somewhere in your home. SERVPRO technicians can use advanced moisture detection tools such as thermohygrometers to detect unusual levels of moisture anywhere in your home.

You Had a Flood

When people think of flooding, their minds often conjure images of crashing waves and violent storms. However, many of the damage-causing floods we help out with start with problems as mundane as a malfunctioning dishwasher. Any time a large part of your home's flooring becomes covered in water should be treated as a potential precursor to a mold problem.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is there to help when you suspect that your home may have fallen victim to mold damage. Call us at (602) 386-4268 for fast and inexpensive restoration and remediation services.

For more on Phoenix, click here. 

Kitchen Appliances Can Cause Major Water Damage To Your Phoenix Home

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

We're available every day of the year with 24-hour emergency services.

Water Cleanup Teams Fix Flooding From A Slipped Feed Line in Your Phoenix Kitchen

Moving your furniture around to clean more thoroughly behind and underneath rarely causes a problem in your Phoenix home. Things can get a bit trickier when you pull water-fed appliances out from their assigned spaces so you can deep clean in these usually hidden areas. You must be very careful when moving your dishwasher, refrigerator, and washing machine around.

It only takes one loosened water line to flood your kitchen in your Phoenix home, but our water cleanup team can get things back to normal. Lost water can spread out over your floor where it makes a visible mess, but it can also seep into any cracks in the corner between the floor and the wall, or elsewhere. The water can flow underneath the floorboards and cause underlay materials to swell.

When a kitchen's floor is carpeted, SERVPRO technicians work fast to get it completely dry. Padding can contain a lot of water. While we can often salvage a carpet even if it is loaded with water, as long as it is Category 1, it is not cost effective to save the padding. Not only does padding disintegrate when soaked, but it can make it more difficult to get the floor below it to dry quickly.

Our IICRC-certified Carpet Repair and Reinstallation Technician (RRT) can pull your carpet up and away from the floor, remove the wet padding, and dry the carpet. Drying a carpet this way, called floating, keeps the rug from stretching and dries it thoroughly. Relaying it once dry means you do not need to replace your carpet. Extracting the water from your kitchen requires the use of not only drying equipment but also extraction equipment.

SERVPRO makes sure the water line gets reattached to the appliance, and then we begin using different extraction and cleanup devices. If water splashed onto walls and soaked in, we can use our Injectidry to air out and dry the interior of the wall. If your kitchen has linoleum or another non-porous flooring, we can use our hand-held wands to pull up escaped water. Other types of drying equipment get your kitchen dry again by removing water vapor and keeping it from condensing on surfaces in your kitchen and other areas of your home.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix serves Encanto, also, and can help provide water cleanup services that keep your home protected from mold and secondary water damage. Call us at (602) 386-4268. We're available every day of the year with 24-hour emergency services.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

When A Water Damage Accident Occurs In Your Phoenix Home Call Our Team At SERVPRO

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

Whenever your home suffers fire, water, mold, or flood damages, never hesitate to call for our help.

Swift And Friendly Water Cleanup Services In Phoenix

Despite our best efforts, accidents can happen and they can leave our homes in dire need of emergency water cleanup services. In your home, an old and vulnerable pipe in your entertainment room cracked and began to leak water onto the floor while you were at work. Upon returning home, you found several centimeters of water on your floor that was just too much to handle by yourself. In these situations, it's always wise to call for professional help as soon as possible.

Calling professional water cleanup services for your Phoenix home and address the problem as swiftly as possible can not only help prevent further damage, but it can make it easier to remediate the damage that has already happened. If the water lingers, it can be absorbed by the porous materials around it, potentially creating an ideal environment for mold growth. Furthermore, the wooden parts of the furniture in your entertainment room could begin to swell and crack. The faster the water is extracted, the better.

When you need swift reaction times and friendly service, SERVPRO is the right choice for you. We are open 24/7 and always prepared to help you as quickly as we can. Once we receive your call, we make it a priority to get to your home as fast as we can, so our IICRC-certified technicians can begin the remediation as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO only uses advanced technology designed to clean up excess water as fast as possible. Our techs can use extractors to draw the water out of the floor rug in your entertainment room while the device also dries it simultaneously with its heating element. SERVPRO also can use devices such as air movers, axial fans, drying mats, and dehumidifiers to help draw moisture out of your furniture and out of the wooden flooring. After our job is finished, we can return your home to you in its preloss state.

Whenever your home suffers fire, water, mold, or flood damages, never hesitate to call for our help. Dial SERVPRO of Central Phoenix by dialing the number (602) 386-4268. Day or night we're ready to help you.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Call The Experts To Safely Remove Mold From Your Phoenix Home

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can quickly spread out and cover more space in your home if not dealt with immediately.

How Excessive Numbers of Microbes Cause Mold Damage to Your Phoenix Home

On occasion, SERVPRO technicians find that a homeowner is disappointed that we cannot completely eliminate the microbes from their Phoenix property. Every location on our planet holds some microbes, including the harshest climates. The real problem with microorganisms in our living spaces involves their overpopulation.
 
The goal of remediation in a property in Phoenix is to remove existing mold damage and reduce the microbial population to a reasonable, acceptable number. A small number of microbes in a relatively dry setting does not lead to mold damage or undesired health effects. Complete elimination is not possible because of air currents, clothing, pets, inanimate objects, and even food reintroduce microbes into your home continuously.
 
Mold damage occurs because a few microbes come into contact with water while near a food source. Microbes such as mold need cellulose-based materials to survive while in an active state. Your home contains a high amount of such materials. Most of the time, all microbes need is a small amount of moisture, and then they quickly spread out, covering more and more space.
 
As mold spreads out, the individual microorganisms attach themselves to the surface and dig into it with their hyphae. These hyphae are the equivalent of a plant's root system. They look very similar and function as an anchor. As the mold consumes the material it is attached to, this material begins to disintegrate. The hyphae break it apart, slowly and steadily, continually reaching down deeper into the material.
 
Mold damage steadily worsens, which is why SERVPRO specialists make sure the area receiving remediation remains enclosed. We understand that disturbing mold causes mold to release spores into the air. Having the area surrounded by a negative air pressure chamber keeps these spores safely where we want them. We also make sure that all moldy materials stay enclosed in the area and only leave once we have placed them in double bags and securely closed them.
 
SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is ready to help remediate any areas in your Camelback East, Encanto, or Midtown residence stricken by mold damage. Call us at (602) 386-4268, our 24-hour service line so that we can provide you with more facts about mold found in your property.

Click here to find out for yourself why Phoenix is such a dynamic city. 

Phoenix Commercial and Municipal Buildings Benefit from Fast SERVPRO Water Removal--Book Us Now!

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

Phoenix Library Branches and Many Businesses Rely on SERVPRO for Water Loss Mitigation

Efficient Water Removal for a Water-Damaged Phoenix Library

With the high volume of foot-traffic, you can expect every day at a Phoenix library, taking care of emergencies is not only just a good business practice but one that helps to preserve the investment of the library management, typically the municipality. With water loss incidents, no matter how localized, the books and collected works throughout the facility immediately become at risk of moisture exposure that could ruin them.

Whenever a disaster like this occurs, you need prompt water removal services for the Phoenix area library. Our SERVPRO professionals have content loss training to help mitigate the situation as soon as we arrive. While the priority in these situations is to extract the excess water from the affected areas, it is also to preserve the items and contents of the building that are now at risk of moisture damage and exposure to active mold spores in a humid environment.

Shortly after you call, our mitigation and loss recovery team load up the Green Fleet vehicles with our equipment and head out to your address. Once we arrive, we put our estimator to work in determining the full range and extent of the damage and what it is going to take to restore the facility entirely. As part of this inspection, we determine the source of the loss and work within our capabilities to stop the flow of this source or to repair it.

Extraction is one of the initial steps to securing the facility, and this begins with the appropriate equipment from portable pumps to gas-powered extraction tools for fast removal. At this same time, our Contents Department technicians assess at-risk contents of the library to determine what works must get removed from the area to prevent contamination and damage until restoration completes.

The nature of books and magazines, documents, and other reading materials make them susceptible to water absorption from water vapor, not just puddles of water within the facility. Moving at-risk materials to a dry environment is crucial to preservation. Under extreme water loss conditions, we can pack out and dry these items off-site. Ask us about lyophilization.

Water removal services might not be something that you hope to need, but when the collected works throughout the library and its ability to serve the community is at risk, having professionals that can respond immediately can make all the difference. You can count on our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix rapid response team. Give us a call anytime at (602) 386-4268.

Plenty of Books at the Library branches here

Our Team Of Specialists Can Restore Your Fire Damaged Home In Phoenix

11/26/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage events can soil different surfaces and contents within your home.

Cleaning Your Phoenix Property During Fire Damage Restoration

Fire damage events can soil different surfaces and contents within your home. To loosen the soils from the affected surfaces, you need professional restoration services. Before our experts can choose an appropriate method to clean the affected areas, we have to perform a site inspection. During the inspection, we identify salvageable items and the different kinds of smoke residues in your Phoenix property.

Mechanical actions are part of the procedures that our SERVPRO technicians employ to dislodge smoke particles during fire damage restoration in Phoenix. We usually use agitation methods before introducing other cleaning actions. For instance, if we start by using a wet cleaning technique, some surfaces can absorb the smoke particles and make the cleaning process more challenging. We employ mechanical cleaning procedures when we are dealing with non-greasy residues and when the surface can withstand the agitation.

In some situations, our SERVPRO technicians may decide to make some areas slippery for the cleaning process to be more efficient. We achieve that through a process known as lubrication. During the process, the bond between the surface and the smoke particles is loosened, and as a result, they slide into a cleaning agent. Some detergents can perform emulsification and lubrication at the same time. Where necessary, we can introduce chemical actions during the restoration process. We do that when the chemical process alters the particles and breaks their connection with the surface. For instance, we can remove oxidized stains from wool and cotton rugs through specific chemical actions.

Suspension and dispersion are part of the cleaning procedures that our SERVPRO technicians perform. Once the soils or particles are dislodged from the surfaces, we use a cleaning product that suspends and disperses them. Finally, we remove both the particles and the cleaning agent. We dispose of the extracted residues as per the local and state regulations.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is a trusted industry leader that uses specialized equipment to offer fire damage restoration and cleaning services. Our 24-hour emergency services meet the needs of both commercial and residential properties. Call us at (602) 386-4268 to have all your questions answered.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

The Real Truth About How the Latest Tools can Help to Overcome Phoenix Water Damage

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage can sometimes seem overwhelming. Contact SERVPRO when your home faces water damage for water removal and cleaning services.

Use of Advanced Equipment Eases Restoration of Water Damage in Phoenix

Exposure to higher than usual levels of moisture ruins many items found in homes and other properties. Whether it is carpets, upholstery, wooden items, and even structural components like drywall, water affects them negatively after extended exposure. Therefore, any time water leaks and pools in unintended locations, you have to take measures to address the situation fast. We offer IICRC certified restoration services that can help you reverse the effects of an incident in your Phoenix home “Like it never even happened.”
 
Proper restoration of water damage in Phoenix can only happen after addressing all the ways water ruins property. Some materials like wood in furniture absorb moisture and swell. Others like drywall might become soft and lose structural strength. Our SERVPRO team is best suited to handle these problems because we have different types of equipment to fast-track water removal. We have submersible pumps and different types of water extractors to remove pooling water limiting the exposure time for drywall and furniture items.
 
Excess moisture easily causes mold and other microbial growth on materials such as upholstery, draperies, carpets and even wooden surfaces. As long as there is excess moisture in the air, mold keeps forming even after cleaning the area with antimicrobial solutions. Using high-speed air movers and industrial grade dehumidifiers, SERVPRO technicians pull the vapor from the air in the surroundings returning humidity levels to normal. Eliminating excess humidity deals a severe blow to mold proliferation.
 
When water invades properties, bad odors can develop. Odors can develop because of microbes, rotting materials or wastes spread to hidden areas by water flow. Regardless of the cause, it is necessary to deodorize the property to eliminate these odors. We use OSHA-approved cleaning agents to remove all soils or debris left by the pooling water because eliminating odor without dealing with the source is not likely to work. After cleanup, our SERVPRO crews use HEPA-filtered air scrubbers, ULV, and thermal foggers to deodorize your property eliminating all traces of bad odor.
 
By relying on advanced equipment and our IICRC training SERVPRO of Central Phoenix helps you regain full control of your water damaged property. You can reach us at (602) 386-4268 any time.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Do Not Let Water Destroy Your Phoenix Home Call Our Experts Right Away!

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

Water must be extracted right away because moisture can cause mold growth if left standing for more than 48 hours.

We Offer Professional Water Cleanup In Phoenix

When plumbing problems such as a leaking kitchen pipe occur in your home, excess water can ruin your floors, carpets, and walls if you do not act fast and call in the professionals to handle the cleanup job. Water must be extracted right away because moisture can cause mold growth if left standing for more than 48 hours. Plus, it can cause structural damage. We can be at your house within a few hours after you contact us. Responding fast can help reduce losses to your property and items, which may result in lower restoration and insurance costs.

When our SERVPRO water cleanup team arrives at your Phoenix residence, they come ready to get to work. Truck-mounted or portable extraction machines can be put use to remove water. Both units are capable of extracting moisture quickly and efficiently. In most cases, we employ mobile devices for this type of job. Our expert and certified techs may also use pumps, extraction wands, and wet/dry vacuums to remove water from the affected areas. The team can also utilize probes and sensors to find and remove hidden pockets of water from behind baseboards or walls and under the flooring.

There are several pieces of equipment we can employ to dry the structure such as air movers that circulate warm air and dry the area rapidly. Out teams can also use high-velocity axial fans and dehumidifiers to evaporate moisture in the air and dry the structure. Air movers, fans and dehumidifying machines help speed up the drying process by reducing the level of humidity in the home’s atmosphere. Our techs may also utilize industrial heaters to quickly dry certain areas such as under the floorboards or behind the walls.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix water cleanup services is available around the clock. We are close by and are always ready to help you in your time of need. When possible, our certified experts can restore your home to its preloss condition. Call SERVPRO at (602) 386-4268 any time of the day or night.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Proven Tips to Combat Commercial Water Damage in Phoenix

10/27/2018 (Permalink)

The reason that people store items in your storage facility is to keep them safe. Contact SERVPRO should your storage facility face water damage.

Finding Solutions for Phoenix Self-Storage Water Damage Troubles

Self-storage facilities in Phoenix with water damage can pose a unique challenge to SERVPRO technicians. With the entire property so compartmentalized and heavy in walls, doors, and insulation, we often have to deal with the same square footage of other commercial establishments without any of the open space and room to work that we usually get. Depending on the type and extent of damage, we may even need to bring in some of our more unique and unconventional drying and restoration techniques to reverse damages.

Often, the first surfaces and objects to sustain heavy water damage in a Phoenix self-storage facility tend to be the belongings and valuables stored inside rooms and lockers throughout the facility. From breakable ceramics and glassware to easily-destroyed fabrics and delicate mechanical and electrical parts, most of the items located across the premises are likely to be highly vulnerable to uncontrolled water damage.

Our strategy is to restore rather than replace everything we can to reduce hassle and control replacement and insurance costs. However, damage can extend beyond the contents of containers to the rooms and lockers themselves, as well. Insulation, HVAC systems, and flooring materials are all common sites of water damage found throughout the structure itself, and the specific steps we need to take to control damage to them can vary depending on their specifications and the building layout.

For larger storage units, we can treat the area as we would a small room, removing and separating contents to facilitate faster drying while we use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out the room itself. However, for smaller containers, we may need to alter our strategies to keep the mitigation process from taking too long. If necessary, we can call in help from other nearby SERVPRO franchises to supply additional drying equipment to make sure the entire facility is dried out in a timely fashion.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix places commercial damage calls at the top of our priorities, ensuring that your business receives the fast and professional care it needs to keep doors open and revenue flowing. Contact us at (602) 386-4268.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Our Restoration Technicians Can Restore Your Fire Damaged Property In Phoenix Quickly

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

To ensure further fire damage does not take place in your Phoenix property, make sure you alert our SERVPRO team immediately.

You Need Fast Response When Restoring Your Phoenix Building after A Fire Damage Event

It is difficult to predict when your property is likely to experience fire damage. If a fire breaks out in your building and it is successfully put off before it can consume everything, the soot and smoke damage that it leaves behind needs to be cleaned. Additionally, some structures may be severely damaged and need reconstruction; our team can perform a site inspection and come up with procedures to clear up the mess in your Phoenix home.

To ensure further fire damage does not take place in your Phoenix property, make sure you alert our SERVPRO team immediately the incident takes place. Reporting to the site earlier enough allows us to assess the degree of damage and choose the right equipment to do the restoration work. We document everything and share with the homeowner so that our clients are aware of the operations we are undertaking.

If we perform a pretest and find out the walls of the building are likely to absorb the liquid cleaning products, then we might decide to use mechanical action as an initial process to detach the residues. During this step, we clean dry and non-greasy smoke residues from surfaces before using wet cleaning methods such as lubrication. We can also use a cleaning product to suspend and disperse of the loose residues.

It can be a challenge to address the soot on high vaulted ceilings when you do not have the right equipment. If the area is broad enough, our SERVPRO technicians can use a man lift when cleaning towering ceilings. Smoke particles may penetrate into wall cavities, and if they mix with the fire extinguishing agents, rotting might take place a release of unpleasant odors may occur. By using foggers that break the odor molecules, we can neutralize the odors. Applying fragrances has never been a reliable solution when it comes to solving the odor problem.

Never face the damages of a disaster alone when SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help you to return your commercial or residential property to its former state. Call our experienced technicians today at (303) 604-6607 for a smooth restoration and cleaning process.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Flash Flooding Outside Can Cause Flood Damage Headaches Inside Your Phoenix Home

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Unexpected water damage from flash floods are no match for SERVPRO.

Various Activities Involved in Restoration of Flood Damage in Phoenix

Because of its geographic traits, flash floods happen in Phoenix, and although most may not cause injury or loss of life, damages to properties in the affected areas are common. Such outcomes happen because even just an inch of water intruding your property can cause considerable damage. Floodwaters are worse because they are heavily laden with contaminants such us sewage, silt, and even fuel residues.  

Restoring flood damage in Phoenix may require different efforts. Depending on how much water intrudes the property, and how fast it moves, there might be structural damages to address. If the property remains submerged for an extended period, wooden parts of the are likely to rot or develop other problems such as warping. Our SERVPRO team does thorough inspection establishing whether there are structural issues that must be addressed by a contractor.  

All the toxins collected by floodwater end up in the affected property. Restoration efforts should include deep cleaning of the affected areas and removal of porous materials. Removing porous materials is necessary because even the best cleaning efforts do not guarantee removal of all contaminants. Our SERVPRO technicians rely on different approaches to clean the affected areas. By pressure washing the areas, we can eliminate debris left by the flood water. We also use various EPA-registered cleaning agents to disinfect the area before starting cleanup, and again after cleaning to sanitize affected areas. This step is vital because biocides are more effective when applied in clean areas.  

In flooded properties, materials such as drywall, insulation, and others which are porous tend to lose their structural form once they become saturated. Unfortunately, restoration of such materials through drying or any other procedures is not possible. Our SERVPRO technicians help remove all these materials even from hard-to-reach sections of your property.

Drying a waterlogged property is an essential part of the recovery process. Drying is a multi-step procedure starting with the removal of standing water and ending with the minimization of moisture to normal levels. Our SERVPRO team is equipped with the necessary pumps, different types of dehumidifiers and air movers for this restoration phase.  

Restoration of a flood-damaged property takes effort. Calling SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help reduce your burden. You can reach us at (602) 386-4268 any time of the day.

Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park is located in Phoenix.  For more information, click here.

How To Get Started With Water Damage In Phoenix

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

When our experts get called out to perform a water cleanup in Phoenix, we bring the cavalry with us.

An Expert's Guide To Water Cleanup In Phoenix

When problems with plumbing cause excessive pooling it requires removal equipment that most homeowners just do not own. Whether it's a slow leak or a full-scale burst pipe, the after-effects of crawlspaces, subfloors and carpet pads that become saturated by water can cause lasting harm to a property's structure.

When our experts get called out to perform a water cleanup in Phoenix, we bring the cavalry with us. Truck-mounted extraction units have stronger suction than their portable counterparts and can be vital in draining harder to reach areas. We usually reserve these trucks for commercial cleanups, but the large tanks they offer do come in handy for larger jobs at private properties.

When it comes to removing water, we use pumps at first, before moving in with more precise wet/dry vacuums and extraction wands. SERVPRO technicians must pass a stringent training program before working in our franchises. Their training allows them to use advanced techniques to make sure moisture can be removed from even difficult to reach areas.

Floorboards can be notoriously difficult to dry, which is why SERVPRO use flat lay drying techniques. A process by which a sheet is laid on the affected surface and air-circulation is applied. As the sheet inflates, water is drawn out and into the air. We have found this technique to be extremely useful in the removal of moisture from in between floorboards or gaps in your property's structure.

Carpets may be pulled up, pads replaced, and subfloors inspected to ensure every ounce of moisture has been removed. Once satisfied, SERVPRO can place rapid air-movers into the affected area. These circulate hot air, evaporating moisture. It is part of a two-step process that guards against the risk of mold or mildew buildup after a leak. The second step is to place humidifiers into the affected area and remove the evaporated moisture from the air.

At the conclusion of service, our technician can remove all equipment as well as any materials that need discarding. We can then walk you through the affected area to show you where work has been carried out, where items have been restored and which need replacing. At SERVPRO we know replacing items can get expensive, so we work toward restoration rather than a replacement to keep costs as low as possible for our customers.

If you need urgent water removal, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 for an expert solution.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Smelly, Moldy Curtains in Phoenix? Don't Wait--Call SERVPRO Fast!

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Remediates Mold Damage in Phoenix, We Even Clean the Curtains

Protecting your Soft Valuables after Mold Damage in Phoenix

A musty odor can be a sign of mold growth in your home. Mold thrives on moisture, spreading through tiny, airborne spores. As these spores come into contact with wet or damp areas the conditions are ripe for full-scale mold growth which may have an unpleasant odor and can cause health effects. Porous materials like fabrics or upholstery are all items considered at high risk which, if left unchecked, may have to be destroyed.

So, how can property owners protect their possessions from mold damage in Phoenix? The answer is in responding quickly with a professional service. At SERVPRO our motto is to restore rather than replace. Make a quick phone call, and we can send in a trained, mold expert to inspect your property within four hours or less of notification of loss.

An inspection is designed to find, and then neutralize, the source of mold. Fungi can cause a structural issue, a result of wet/ humid weather conditions, or even a plumbing leak. The result is the same. Non-porous and semi-porous materials can usually be remedied using wet washing techniques followed by systematic drying. Porous possessions, which could include upholstery, clothing or fabrics may have to go to a facility for restoration through washing.

If your contents cannot be restored on site, your technician may recommend a pack-out procedure. A pack-out involves labeling all affected items and sending them to a SERVPRO facility. Here, we can use industrial-grade Esporta washing machines that are specially designed to deal with contaminated materials. These mechanical cleaning methods have a 90% restoration rate and could save your soft valuables. Again, we try to salvage our customers' possessions.

Not all soft valuables are salvageable, meaning that some may be discarded. We can take these materials with us after the service is complete and dispose of them properly to avoid further contamination. Those that are salvageable can be returned to a dry, deodorized and mold-free environment at the end of service.

If your soft valuables are showing signs of mold, you may not have to discard them. Contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 for a consultation and service.

Lots of information by clicking here.

Our Commercial Water Damage Services In Phoenix Can Restore Your Office

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

Our commercial water damage SERVPRO technicians in Phoenix are highly trained and understand the importance of mitigating moisture quickly.

Our Commercial Water Damage Services

The pipe burst under the sink in the bathroom of your office building left a mess. The floors and walls are wet, and it appears that you may have to disrupt daily operations for awhile so that professionals can restore the office. It is wise to call us right away because excess water can cause damages to the structure of the building as well as to floor tiles and walls. Plus, if you allow water to stand inside the building for more than 48 hours, the mold may start to grow, which can cause health effects.

Our commercial water damage SERVPRO technicians in Phoenix are highly trained and understand the importance of mitigating moisture quickly. The team can use extractors, vacuums or pumps to remove water from the structure. After the migration phase, the team dries the area. Our crew may employ air movers or axial fans to dry the office. The team may also utilize dehumidifiers to reduce humidity and increase evaporation. We also may use dehumidifiers to pull in moisture and return dry, warm air inside the office environment. This step helps increase the drying phase.

We work fast to dry the area to prevent mold growth and to reduce the chances of other secondary issues such as wood rot from occurring. The crew can also pack out materials and contents inside the office. We itemize, categorize and store each item in a dry and safe area on or off-site until the restoration process is complete. We know that it is essential to keep your office functioning on a daily basis, which is why you can expect our techs to work quickly and to strive to get the job done right.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix provides commercial water damage restoration services that can restore your office when possible. Call us at (602) 386-4268 any time of the day or night to schedule an appointment. We are here to help and can return your office to its preloss condition.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Stopping and Remediating Water Damage to Phoenix Homes

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

When facing a water damage incident in your home, it behooves you to contact SERVPRO quickly to dry out the area and remediate the damage.

SERVPRO Technicians Understand That Different Materials in the Home Absorbs Water at Different Rates

Phoenix homeowners have to deal with the effects of weather; the sun and the flash floods that happen every year. More flooding and other water issues occur and cost more annually due to plumbing and other internal problems than outside flooding.
 
Remediating water damage to Phoenix homes means first finding the source of the water and stopping it. SERVPRO restoration teams can perform routine plumbing repairs, to include replacing hoses and some types of piping. For major repairs, our team leader recommends to the homeowner to call in a licensed plumber.
 
In the meantime, technicians turn off the water main, if necessary, to stop further water intrusion. With that done, they remove any standing water or large puddles with extraction wands. These devices work well for shallow water, and with one or two, team members can complete a home in a day or two, depending on the total square feet involved.
 
With the water gone, SERVPRO technicians then examine the home for damage. They start with carpets and wood floors. Even after using the extraction wands, moisture can remain trapped in carpet fibers and between floorboards.
 
To dry carpets, team members lift them and roll them far enough to remove and dispose of the carpet pad. Each pad can hold a huge amount of water, are difficult to dry, and therefore, cheaper to replace than restore. They unroll the carpet back to its original position and open an entry and exit point opposite to each other. Technicians then set up an air mover to force warm, dry air under and over the carpet to dry it, while a fan at the exit point draws out the cool, damp air under the carpet and forces it outside the affected room.
 
Technicians use the same devices to dry the surface of wood floors. If there is water underneath the floorboards, they can also use the air mover with a hose to direct warm air in the cavity to speed up the drying process to prevent cupping, splintering, and other wood damage. This method also reduces the risk of a mold infestation.
 
When there is standing water in a home, the goal of SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is to remove it and remediate any damage before it becomes a permanent issue. If you need us, call (602) 386-4268 today. We are here for you.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Eliminating and Preventing Mold Damage in Phoenix

8/15/2018 (Permalink)

Meet Our Future SERVPRO Mold Remediation Hero for the Phoenix Area

Phoenix Homeowners Call SERVPRO for Safe Mold Remediation

Phoenix residents rarely consider mold to be the same level of threat as a fire or one of the flash floods that can strike when the rains finally fall. The physical damage is not as explicit, but the cost to clean homes and remove mold growth each year still runs into the millions nationwide.

Mold damage to Phoenix homes usually starts in areas where owners and residents do not spend much time, or they walk in to accomplish a task and then leave quickly, such as attics and laundry rooms. When called in for a mold problem, SERVPRO restoration specialists look to these areas first as a probable point of origin for the mold.
 
Our specialists do this because mold cannot grow without enough moisture to cause dormant spores to expand and begin seeking out more water and a food source. Eliminating nearby sources of water forces the spores back to an inactive state, stopping mold growth. SERVPRO specialists can repair minor plumbing leaks that often lead to mold growth and also fix small tears in the roof or siding on a home that allows water inside. More extensive repairs require the hiring of outside contractors.
 
As the mold grows inactive, it dries out, and specialists can use vacuums with specially designed HEPA filters to trap mold spores off surfaces and even from the surrounding air. If the mold layer is very thick, they can also use water or a cleaning agent to break it up and then vacuum or wipe off the mold with a sponge. Soda blasting is a pressurized, abrasive method for removing visible mold growth from hard surfaces.
 
In areas where it is difficult to reach every surface, specialists can spray an anti-fungal agent to help eliminate all active spores or use a fogger to generate a cloud of chemical agent to stop growth. The fogger device is particularly useful in small, enclosed areas like attics, or even garages.
 
Finally, there is one thing a homeowner can do to prevent mold or stop it before it becomes a significant problem. Take a look around your out-of-the-way spaces at least once a year. Mold can grow almost anywhere, but a simple, visual inspection can quickly stop it. Remember also to use your nose, so if you detect that musty odor, which mold produces, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268. We are here for you.

More about this area, click

Fire Damage Technicians Out of Phoenix Describe the Work Process

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Any type of fire damage in your home can be overwhelming. Should your home suffer through a fire, contact SERVPRO right away.

Team SERVPRO is Standing by Ready to Remediate Your Home After a Fire

Any time a fire starts in Phoenix, the entire situation can be devastating. As soon as the blaze ignites the first step is to make sure everyone near it is safe. The next step is to put out the flames using water or an extinguisher. After it gets put out is when mitigation work is necessary. Anytime something burns inside your home, building materials and contents can receive a wide variety of types of damage. Therefore, mitigation and restoration procedures require utilizing different techniques.
 
The two main elements of a blaze that can cause problems are its heat and smoke. When mitigating fire damage in Phoenix, our SERVPRO technicians are trained to deal with the large variety of potential issues. We follow a set work process everytime from the beginning of a job until the end. Following a set process helps us make sure we do not miss anything and ensures the results are consistent.
 
Our SERVPRO restoration team is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week and know that professionalism begins as soon as we take your call. Once we arrive at your residence, we greet you and get your information to start our job file. We find out more from you about what happened and preview the loss.
 
The next step is the consult and test stage. Our IICRC certified estimators complete a full examination of the problems that took place as a result of the fire. We test clean affected contents and materials to see what we can restore and what will need to be replaced. During the inspection process, we listen to you to find out where all of the affected areas could be.
 
After we finish the inspection, we come up with a detailed initial estimate for you and your insurance adjuster. Once the work is officially approved we develop a work scope and plan the different types of mitigation procedures. If anything changes during the work process we work with you and your adjuster to approve the change. If you ever need help after something burns on your property, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 any day of the week.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Precautionary Measures To Prevent Flood Damages In Your Phoenix Home

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Floods are invasive and destructive forces, especially when they can find their way into your home.

Precautionary Measures To Prevent Flood Damage

Natural disasters might not be everyday occurrences to those with homes in Phoenix, but the likelihood of it happening persists all the same. Flash flooding and flooding from the rise of creeks, streams, and rivers remain a threat throughout longer periods of rainfall spanning several days or more. Preparing yourself for a flood can be challenging, especially if you are not entirely certain of your home's structural defenses against the rising waters.

Floods are invasive and destructive forces, especially when they can find their way into your home. Not only are you getting the water damage itself, but other flood damages like mud and debris to clean up in your Phoenix home as well. Choosing the right professional restoration team to bring your home back from this often catastrophic event can make the ordeal less stressful and ensure that it gets done thoroughly.

One avenue that you should take to begin preparing your home for the possibility of flooding sometimes is to have your house inspected. This assessment would include areas like your crawl space and foundation but also look at areas like your roof and building materials for your home to determine their likelihood of keeping rushing flood waters out. Our SERVPRO technicians have done these assessments in the past, helping to locate problem areas that need to get addressed before they become costly avenues of flood damage.

Another thing that our SERVPRO professionals can do for your home is to install protective measures to divert water should it affect your home. For example, encapsulation of the crawlspace or the installation of a drain with a sump pump in this area can help to keep water out and continually divert potential problems far away from your house.

Some homeowners are not fortunate enough to think of the potential for flood damages before they happen, however. If you are already dealing with the harmful effects of a natural disaster, or even some water loss event that originated inside of your home, contact out SERVPRO of Central Phoenix water restoration specialists today at (602) 386-4268. We can respond quickly to help clean up the mess and restore your home back to preloss conditions.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Eliminating Commercial Mold Damage In Phoenix

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Phoenix DayCare Centers and Other Businesses Rely on SERVPRO for Safe Mold Removal

Phoenix Business Buildings Rely on SERVPRO for Mold Remediation

A mold infestation is the last problem Phoenix business owners consider. An environment like ours is simply not considered conducive to a mold threat.

The truth is that commercial mold damage can happen in any Phoenix business if there are enough moisture and a source of food such as most building materials. The temperature range for most molds to grow is 68 to 86 degrees, so SERVPRO technicians know that stopping mold by adjusting the temperature is rarely an option.
 
Removing mold damage from a facility like a daycare center means our restorations team needs to find and eliminate the source of a mold, not just clean out obvious indications like a black streak in a bathroom or kitchen. While mold affects property primarily, an extensive colony can adversely affect the health of a small number of people. The only way to prevent further growth and eliminate this threat is to remove every trace of mold spores the team can find.
 
SERVPRO technicians start with finding the moisture that allowed the first spores to expand and grow. Eliminating that forces the mold to quickly return to an inert state which is harmless to anyone around it. Inert mold spores also stop growing across or into surfaces. That stops current physical damage from getting worse and preventing new damage to ceilings, walls, and floors.
 
For any building material already penetrated by mold, the safest, and usually the most cost-efficient method is to dispose of it. Drywall is difficult to clean, and digging mold out of it quickly compromises the structural integrity. The labor cost to attempt to repair it is always more expensive than buying new panels.
 
After removing all damaged material, technicians spray the interior of the building with an anti-fungal agent to eliminate the spores. After it dries, team members wipe everything down to remove the now dead spores. Once completing removal, specialists use an air content meter throughout the facility to ensure the airborne mold count is back to a safe amount.
 
It is impossible to eliminate all mold, but SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help you remediate damage to your business and prevent growth in the future. If you suspect a problem in your facility, call us today at (602) 386-4268. We are here for you.

See some Phoenix images right here.

We Offer Reliable Fire Damage Services In Phoenix

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has experience in fire damage restoration that you can trust.

Fire Damage Services

A fire in your home can be a scary and overwhelming experience. Smoke, soot, and flames can cause significant damage to your property. Fire residues can also ruin expensive furniture, carpeting as well as the flooring in your Phoenix home. Plus, fire can burn or char parts of the structure and materials in the home. Once the fire has been put out, dirt, soot, and offensive smoke residues can linger inside the home.

Professional SERVPRO fire damage restoration services in Phoenix can restore your home when possible. Our trained crew can use a variety of cleaning methods to remove fire residues from the affected areas of your home. Fires can damage or weaken the structure of the home, which is why contacting us right away is wise. We are nearby and can be at your residence in a matter of hours after your initial contact.

After our team inspects the home for damages, they may perform minor repairs to the structure such as boarding up a missing window or door or taping to protect specific areas of the structure. If larger carpenter jobs are necessary, we suggest homeowners contact a general contractor. Removing items from the home that are unsalvageable like charred furniture and burned clothing and drapery is also part of the restoration stage. Items and materials in the home that are salvageable are cleaned, and sanitized and can be stored in a safe area away from the structure until the restoration is complete.

SERVPRO has experience in fire damage restoration that you can trust. They can use air scrubbers, fans and top-grade fogging equipment to quickly eliminate strong smoke odors. Also, they may use industrial cleansers to remove soot and dirt from the floors, walls, and ceilings. Industrial odor removal products may also be used to clean and remove odors from items and materials affected by the fire.

When possible, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can restore your fire damaged property to its preloss condition. It is the goal of our certified team to make you feel “Like it never even happened.” Contact us at (602) 386-4268 24/7 for our professional services.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Understanding What Storm Damage Brings To Your Home In Phoenix

6/30/2018 (Permalink)

When storm damage strikes your Phoenix home, do not wait.

Understanding What Storm Damage Brings To Your Home

Flash flooding can cause anywhere between a moderate amount of damage to your property to immense damage. Because of Phoenix's unique geographic location, it is susceptible to the remnants of tropical storms, which originate from Pacific ocean, that hit the west coast of the US and Mexico. Flash flooding is just one of the many ways that these storms can impact specific areas of the state.

Storm damage can be incredibly damaging to your home in Phoenix. High winds and drifting debris can break a window and allow the waters to enter. As the storm recedes and some of the water goes with it, the nightmare might seem like it is ending. While the remainder of the situation can seem like nothing more than a massive mess to clean up, that is not always the case.

Flood waters are not always clean; in fact, they can often come riddled with chemicals, pesticides, petroleum products, and sewage. When the water becomes mixed with such things, it becomes unsafe for human contact and disposing of it is not a job for an amateur. When black water floods your home, it is best to call SERVPRO because we have the proper equipment and tools to deal with the problem.

Unfortunately, black water can ruin furnishings in your house. It is essential to understand and know what is safe to keep and dry out inside of your home, and what is not. For example, carpets must be thrown away after they have been soaked through with black water as they are no longer safe to keep. SERVPRO can sort through your belongings and advise you on what you can and what you should not keep. It is best to be safe, rather than sorry in these situations as remaining in contact with black water is unsafe for your health.

When storm damage strikes your Phoenix home, do not wait. As soon as you are able, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix so that we can assist you with the damage and get your house back to normal. Call us today (602) 386-4268.

Click here for more about Phoenix.

Your Cleaning Staff May Be Causing Mold Damage in Your Phoenix Business

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can spread very quickly under certain conditions. Contact SERVPRO to assess and remediate a mold infestation on your business property.

SERVPRO Technicians Thoroughly Remediate a Mold Infestation That Has Spread

On-staff cleaning or housekeeping services allow you to manage your cleaning needs for your Phoenix business directly. For many routine cleaning issues, this can be a good option, responsive and right on-site. Some problems such as microbial infestation can be a challenge, more than your in-house staff can manage. Calling on our specialized mold remediation crew can be the solution.
 
Mold damage in a Phoenix business always links to moisture. Your cleaning crews use water-based cleaning solutions throughout your commercial property. As long as these cleaners dry out properly, the risk of mold damage due to their use is minimal. When surfaces air dry, however, and even a small puddle or a few drops of water remain, opportunistic mold spores begin to grow in as little as 4 to 48 hours. Our workers see these effects of honest cleaning efforts on many mold abatement jobs and encourage an emphasis on drying during a cleaning routine as a deterrent after we complete remediation.
 
When your staff notices the signs of mold growth, such as visible staining or a musty smell, their vigorous response can worsen the condition. Without the mold remediation training SERVPRO technicians receive, your housekeepers might attempt to use only a diluted bleach solution to fight the mold. On a porous surface or joint such as drywall or grout, the watered down bleach saturates the material, actually feeding the mold growth with more moisture. The bleach lightens a mold stain but does not kill the entire colony, the living part of which can resume growth. Mold behind surfaces is undiscovered and multiplies unimpeded.
 
Feeling they conquered the mold outbreak, your cleaning staff moves on to another space. Each of your cleaning employees unwittingly can carry moldy debris from place to place on rags, sponges, buckets, and even their feet and clothing. SERVPRO mold remediation crews are familiar with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protocols, the first of which is containment. Our team does all possible to prevent mold problems from spreading due to our efforts.
 
To contain mold damage, we use physical barriers and have negative pressure air scrubbers available to filter and exhaust the moldy debris during remediation where infestations are significant. After SERVPRO contains the area, we remove mold from surfaces and then employ an EPA registered antimicrobial to inhibit future growth. If porous materials appear infiltrated with the mold hyphae, we remove affected sections and dispose of them along with the other debris, following local and state codes.
 
Do not let a minor mold infestation in your business spiral out of control because of an inadequate response. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is ready to assess and plan for successful mold remediation. Call us at (602) 386-4268.

Click here for more information on the city of Phoenix.

How Storm Damages Can Allow Flooding In Your Phoenix Home

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

Damages to this roof resulted in flood damage inside the home in several areas.

Damages to your home can allow rainwater to invade your home.

Often when homeowners think of flooding, they envision their entire neighborhood combatting several inches of water. As much of a possibility as this might be in light of certain conditions, this is not always the end all for flooding occurring in your Phoenix residence. In fact, something as simple as some storm damages to the exterior of your home could have large volumes of water penetrating into various areas in your house and spreading out to cause significant issues.

While you might not be able to visualize the kind of damage that could occur to your home to cause this kind of phenomenon, it is not as far-fetched as you might believe. High winds can shear off siding and shingles from a roof, just as torrential downpours can break limbs off of large trees on your property. With just a modest opening, flood damages can quickly appear in your Phoenix home amid a severe storm.

From the moment that water starts to work its way inside of your home, it does not take long for this water to spread out over as much of the affected areas as it can. The ideal thing for any homeowner to do in this situation is to reach out to our SERVPRO professionals to give them an opportunity to reach your home quickly and work to prevent the situation from getting any worse.

One of the initial things that must happen is the damage needs to get repaired to the exterior of your home. Whether portions of the roof or siding require replacement, large openings prevent restoration from occurring. Once this situation has gotten resolved, the extraction and drying can follow suit and steps officially begin to restore your home back to pre-water loss conditions.

Storm damages have been a contributing factor to many instances of flooding in the area over the years. Fortunately, you can depend on our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix restoration specialists to help you clean up the mess and set things right. Give us a call anytime that you need us at (602) 386-4268.

Click here to see upcoming events in Phoenix

Choosing The Right Removal Approach For Mold Colonies In Your Phoenix Residence

6/1/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can tackle any type of mold infestation in your Phoenix home.

SERVPRO is The Right Choice When it Comes to Mold Remediation

Phoenix homeowners can all agree that it gets rather hot throughout the area through a good portion of the year. Be mindful of the extensive cooling of your home, however, as condensation along with warmer temperatures could allow for mold growth in your home. While this might seem unreasonable to some homeowners, it is a lot simpler than you might believe to meet the necessary conditions for microbial and mold growth inside your residence.

Mold damage itself can appear in a multitude of ways, but most homeowners worry about the process of removing mold from their Phoenix homes. While this can be an involved process, to say the least, our SERVPRO professionals get uniquely trained in the most effective approaches for remediation and must get certified to the high standards of the IICRC before they can join our applied microbial remediation technician team.

From the moment that this team gets dispatched out to a home, our technicians work quickly to assess the full scope of the damage that your home faces and the appropriate equipment necessary to remove the colony and restore the damage to your home. This initial inspection is thorough, ensuring that nothing gets missed or overlooked and that you have ample opportunity to express your concerns and priorities for the team that works in your house.

Depending on the type of mold, as well as the type of surface or material it has seated inside, different approaches get taken to remove the colonies. Sometimes sanding is the best approach, while soda blasting is ideal for porous structural components with mold damages. The method chosen is based on what the technicians believe to be most effective and the conditions of the house and its occupants.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Mold remediation is a process that most homeowners should never have to fully understand. Our SERVPRO of Central Phoenix mold remediation technicians can help you through every step of this process, and also work to provide the means of preventing the same occurrence in the immediate future. Our emergency response team is standing by 24/7 at (602) 386-4268.

For more on Phoenix, click here.

Fire Damage Technicians In Phoenix Explain Different Types Of Smoke Residues

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

Phoenix Smoke & Fire Damage? Contact SERVPRO for Cleanup, Restoration, and Odor Removal

The Nature of Soot and Smoke Dictate the Cleanup Method Utilized by SERVPRO for Phoenix Area Properties

Whenever a fire burns at your residence in Phoenix, heat, flames, and smoke can all damage items and cause problems. Building materials close to the source of the burn can suffer charring and heat damage. Smoke created by particles that do not entirely combust can travel throughout a building leaving behind, soils, soot residues, and unpleasant smells.

Residues vary according to what fuels burned in the fire. When restoring fire damage in Phoenix, multiple cleaning methods get implemented to remove the different types of soils. Other factors change the kind of residues that exist on surfaces after a burn including the rate of combustion and the amount of oxygen present during the fire.
 
Structural burns create smoke that is either wet, dry or a combination of the two. Many blazes generate various amounts of wet and dry smoke during different phases of the fire. The two types of smoke have different properties. Therefore our SERVPRO technicians utilize several techniques when cleaning.
 
Generally, soot residues left behind by wet smoke is more challenging to remove. Wet smoke is created when oxygen-starved, slow-burning fires, and smoldering take place. Synthetic materials such as foam, plastic, or rubber also tend to create wet smoke.
 
Wet smoke contains a higher number of aerosols such as varnishes, solvents, and other liquid components. With slow-burning fires, wet smoke does not get pulled by heat. Wet smoke can travel further and into deep cracks and crevices where smoke from a fast burning fire would not have gone.
 
Many times contents that get affected by wet smoke get ruined and must be replaced. Wet smoke can permanently discolor plastic items. Aerosols inside the smoke can penetrate and permanently stain finished surfaces. Wet smoke can also penetrate deep into unfinished surfaces causing permanent damage. For these reasons thermal fogging, when possible, recreates the path of the circulated smoke and soot and combines and neutralizes the odors inherent in these particles.
 
Materials that got affected by dry smoke during a blaze are the areas where cleaning and restoring is possible. Dry smoke is created when fires that burn natural materials like wood get plenty of oxygen and burn fast and hot. Dry smoke contains fewer aerosols and consists of dry particles that can be wiped of using dry sponges or water-based chemicals.
 
The combination of the two kinds of smoke change what can be saved with cleaning and what cannot. Call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 24/7 for a professional solution.

Here is a lot of data and information on this city
 

Panicking Is Not an Option When You Face Water Damage In Phoenix

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

When water damage happens in your own home, it can be overwhelming. Contact SERVPRO for remediation services.

Team SERVPRO Quickly Remediates Water Damage in Your Home After an Inspection 

Whether the result of water damage in your home is plumbing leaks or flooding, you need the right expertise and equipment to salvage your contents and return it to its preloss state. Professionals in the industry undergo specialized training that enables them to inspect and extract the water using the right techniques. When we are working on your Phoenix home, we document everything and at the end perform an analysis to determine whether all is back to normal.
 
Once you call our SERVPRO team, we conduct an inspection and assessment to determine the degree of water damage in your Phoenix home. During this step, we identify the source of the moisture and stop it if it is still flowing. We also look at the type - it can be black, gray or clean water - and settle on the most appropriate restoration process. To determine the degree of moisture penetration in your structure, we can use moisture meters and sensors.
 
When doing water extraction, our SERVPRO technicians use pumps as well as portable and truck-mounted water extractors. If the amount of water is massive; we may decide to use powerful truck-mounted systems. In most cases, the amount of space on the site determines the type of equipment we employ during water extraction. When necessary, we perform minor demolitions to create enough space.
 
After removing the water, it is time for our SERVPRO team to dry your structure. We set up air movers to enhance water loss through evaporation to the surrounding air. As they add moisture to the surrounding, the humidity rises, and there is need to extract the vapor from the air by using dehumidifiers through a process known as dehumidification. During the restoration, we track and monitor the content of moisture and stop once we reach the standard levels.
 
SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is an industry leader in storm, mold, fire and water damage cleaning and restoration. Call us at (602) 386-4268 irrespective of the time of the day, and we can restore your home to its preloss condition.
 
Click here for more information on the city of Phoenix.

The Service You Hope To Never Need -- Crime Scene Cleanup In Phoenix

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Biohazardous Cleanups at Crime Scenes in the Phoenix Area

For Compassionate and Professional Crime Scene Cleanup Call SERVPRO

Bad luck or bad choices -- either or both of these circumstances can land a Phoenix homeowner in a complicated situation. A crime committed on your property would become your problem even if you were uninvolved. Substances and debris need clearing and cleaning, and you do not have the training or the expertise. Consider working with one of our crime scene cleanup crews to set your home and your life back to rights.
 
Your Phoenix crime scene cleanup scenario is unique. Perhaps you discovered a family member was making or dealing in drugs. The paraphernalia, the ingredients, and finished products can be lethal to touch or inhale even by accident. Maybe a home invasion ended in an injury or death of victim or perpetrator. Blood and bodily fluids must be cleaned after a body is removed or a stricken person is taken by ambulance. The circumstance could be a suicide or unattended death, and the discovery of either may take days. Odors and decay complicate an already horrifying scene. We can help.
 
Blood and fluid-borne pathogens are to be presumed part of the debris after a violent injury or death. SERVPRO crime scene cleanup technicians receive advanced training following OSHA, EPA, and local health rules. Not only will we remove the hazardous human waste and substances, but we also have the products registered by the EPA to deep clean and disinfect the area.
 
If it took time to find the crime scene, the remains might be covered in decay and mold. Odors can be stifling and nearly impossible to eradicate. SERVPRO crew members take each crime scene challenge on step by step to remove the debris, sanitize and clean the space and use modern deodorization technology that neutralizes the stench on a molecular level. If necessary, we create zones to keep microbial infestations and pathogens away from your living areas using negative pressure air scrubbers. Our crew is clad in personal protective equipment and take no chances that could spread hazardous materials.
 
Even the tiniest amount of some illegally traded and used drugs can harm or even kill. For you and your loved ones to feel confident that you can live in the home again, every minute particle of the chemicals used and remaining must be eliminated. SERVPRO crime scene cleanup specialists have the tactics and tools to achieve this.
 
Finally, it is likely you and your family did not expect or ask for this nightmare, but you are charged with finding a solution. SERVPRO technicians treat customers and their families dealing with crime scene struggles with respect and compassion. Our services are discrete and professional.
 
SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is there for members of our community wrestling with the aftermath of violent crime or tragedy and the after effects needed to be cleaned from your home. Call (602) 386-4268 andy time of the day or night for our sensitive yet competent and speedy services.

Click here for important links for Phoenix

What to Do When a Storm Floods Your Phoenix Basement Entertainment Center and Causes Damage

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Helps Phoenix Residents Recovery Their Entertainment and Rec Rooms After Flooding

Spare On-Going Water Problems from Storm Damage by Calling SERVPRO Immediately

Storms with aggressive winds can bring flood damage to your home relatively quickly. Before you can stop it, a window has broken, and water has spilled into your basement entertainment area, soaking expensive furniture, the carpeting, and your electronics. The longer that the flood water sits stagnant in your home, the more damage it can do to the structure and your belongings. Do not consider your options for an extended period as waiting can cause further damage to your home. Fortunately, there is professional help nearby to take your call.

Our technicians can arrive at your Phoenix home to remove the damaging flood waters as swiftly as possible. Once we arrive, we can investigate the damage and then begin to apply the most appropriate method of remediation. Our technicians can use conventional tools such as industrial-quality wet/dry vacuums and truck-operated pumps to remove the flood waters from your home. Using these tools allows our technicians to remove the water as quickly as possible from your home so we can inspect and address the damage that it has caused.

SERVPRO can clean up any debris that has found its way into your home, including foliage, rocks, and human-made objects from the outside. Our technicians can inspect your belongings and help you catalog what you have lost. SERVPRO strives to return your entertainment center to its preloss state by attempting to remove any stains from your home that the flood brought.

After cleanup, our technicians can focus on drying out any areas of your basement that are excessively moist. We can measure the humidity in your home through tools like moisture meters. Once we have a reading, we can set up our advanced drying equipment. Drawing the water out of your home and belongings is all about creating a moisture-free environment, which encourages evaporation. Our technicians can use axial fans, air movers, dehumidifiers, and other tools to achieve this.

When your home suffers flood damage, do not wait. Call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268. 24/7, we can send our technicians to your home to help make you feel "Like it never even happened."

Information regarding this city here.

What You Can Do When You Find Mold Damage in Your Phoenix Home

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

Discovering mold growth in your home can be scary, but by calling SERVPRO you can rest assured the damage will be thoroughly and safely remediated.

SERVPRO Safely Cleans Up and Removes Mold Damage from Your Home

The last way that any person wants to spend their day is discovering that their home has mold damage. The truth about mold is that spores are everywhere and they are usually harmless. However, when they attach to a surface and then feed off of the surrounding moisture, the spores can become a severe problem. The spores grow and, eventually, multiply. Fortunately, professional help is not far and can remediate the mold in your home.

The spores, which were once invisible and small, have transformed into a mold patch that is damaging your Phoenix home. While mold may not seem harmful to the naked eye, it can cause health effects, and it also can slowly eat away at the organic materials that make up the structure of your home. It is vital to rid your home of it, immediately. The quicker the mold is dealt with, the better.

SERVPRO can send its IICRC-certified technicians to inspect your home and then quarantine the areas impacted by mold damage. It is essential to section off the infected areas of your home, as the remediation process can spread the spores. Once we section off your home, we can begin the process of removing the mold-infected porous materials and cleaning the non-porous ones.

SERVPRO can make sure to not only remediate the mold damage but also dry any areas of your home that are excessively moist. Additionally, our technicians can use advanced technology to deal with the musty odors that mold causes. We use devices such as air scrubbers to neutralize the smelly particles and return a fresher scent to your home once they go through the filtering process. SERVPRO strives to restore your home back to its pre-mold condition, including how the environment smells.

When your home has been struck by mold damage, do not wait. Call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268. Day or night, we can take your call and send our technicians out as soon as possible to get the remediation process started.

Click here for more on the city of Phoenix.

Commercial Water Removal Techniques In Phoenix

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

Keep Your Phoenix Coffee Shop High and Dry by Calling SERVPRO for Water Extraction

SERVPRO Strives to Extract Water While Your Business Remains Operational

If you ever have a water damage problem inside your Phoenix coffee shop, there are a few techniques professionals use to mitigate the problem. The first and most important step is to secure the area. Next, the initial source of the issue gets repaired.
 
The next step that gets taken is to extract all of the water from the structure as quickly as possible. SERVPRO's commercial water removal technicians in Phoenix then use equipment to dry the materials and contents inside the coffee shop. The final stage of the drying process is the cleaning and deodorization.
 
After the structure gets secured and the source of the problem gets fixed we begin the extraction process. The purpose of extraction is to vacuum up as much water inside the coffee shop as possible while keeping your business open. We can extract water in small sections at a time so that we do not impede foot traffic.
 
Depending on the situation various types of water removal equipment gets implemented. In most cases, a truck-mounted extractor gets used, but in other scenarios, a portable one is more efficient. Depending on the surfaces affected, we use either light-weight extraction wands or heavy-duty extraction tools. Some extraction tools get operated by a SERVPRO technician standing on top of and riding the device; we call this unit a Rover. These heavy-duty extraction systems use the body weight of the operator to compress the carpet making it easier to vacuum up water.
 
If there are more than two inches of standing water present, a submersible pump gets used for sucking up the water. Upon final water removal, we then dry out the remainder of the moisture. We complete the drying process by creating the best environment to speed up the evaporation method.
 
When we dry out a structure, different types of equipment get used depending on the situation. In most scenarios, air movers and dehumidifiers get set up in a way that uses dry air from the dehumidifiers to circulate hot, dry air around the affected room. The drying process also sometimes gets completed a small section at a time so that only a portion of your business is blocked off.
 
After moisture levels return to preloss conditions, the final cleaning and deodorization stage takes place. We make sure that your coffee shop remains a clean and good-smelling environment to attract coffee drinkers. For help from the experts, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 24/7.

More about this area of Phoenix by clicking

Fire Damage Specialists Out of Phoenix

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

After a fire, some items will require cleaning and some will need to be properly disposed of. Contact SERVPRO for remediation.

SERVPRO Technicians Use Four Fundamental Elements When Cleaning Soot Damage

Whenever a fire starts at your Phoenix home, cleaning soot residues becomes essential. Smoke created by a fire fills the building and leaves behind soils. Soot residues discolor and ruin contents and building materials inside your house.
 
Replacing materials inside your home gets expensive, so cleaning materials instead can save your insurance company money. SERVPRO's fire damage technicians in Phoenix use various elements of cleaning during the mitigation process. The purpose of cleaning smoke-related damage is to restore the materials to the conditions they were before the fire.
 
When cleaning a variety of principles and elements of cleaning get used. Some principles and methods work better in certain situations than others. The type of cleaning used depends on the kind of materials that got burned and the type of materials soot damaged.
 
There are four fundamental elements required to suspend residues so that they get removed. The first element of cleaning is temperature. Heat increases the speed of chemical reactions in products. SERVPRO's restoration technicians always select the best temperature based on which chemical gets used and the material being cleaned.
 
The next element is agitation. When soot-damaged materials get agitated, the residues get dislodged, and chemicals get distributed across the surface. When cleaning smoke-damaged surfaces, we agitate the surface with towels, brushes, air and water pressure, and sonic vibrations from ultrasonic machines.
 
Soot residues also get cleaned through chemical action. Most chemicals get designed to cause a reaction with the soot, therefore assisting in its removal. The reactions that take place include dissolving, emulsifying, changing pH, oxidizing, bleaching, and digesting.
 
The last element of cleaning that gets used by professionals is time. Most chemicals need time to appropriately react to the soot and work efficiently. The amount of time needed varies based on the product, type of residue and the kind of surface affected by soot.
 
In most scenarios, soot gets cleaned the best by using a variety of elements and principles of cleaning. For professional help with cleaning residues call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 any time of the day.

Click here for more information regarding the city of Phoenix.

Phoenix's Water Damage Professionals

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

If appliances or piping happens to malfunction, water possibly gets into places that it is not supposed to be.

Professional Water Damage Restoration

It is a well-known aspect of life that accidents happen. Often, accidents come in the form of a mishap inside your Phoenix home. Things break causing other problems that possibly ruin building materials and contents inside your house.

If appliances or piping happens to malfunction, water possibly gets into places that it is not supposed to be. Water possibly causes devastating damage, and you should always call in SERVPRO's water damage experts of Phoenix. Our experienced technicians get trained, and IICRC certified with mitigating problems inside your building.

Unwanted moisture possibly destroys contents and building materials in and around your residence. If water issues do not get dealt with by professionals, it is possible that mold growth occurs. Our SERVPRO restoration crews know what it takes and have all of the necessary industrial equipment to mitigate moisture problems whether they are big or small.

Anytime we are dealing with water-related problems inside a residence; there are steps we always follow to efficiently mitigate the issue and ensure that mold growth does not occur in the future. The initial step is always to do what it takes to make the work area safe for our crew and any occupants. Then, our team uses specialized equipment to extract water out of floors, carpet, and upholstery.

Next, our specialists start the drying procedure to drop moisture levels down inside your structure so that mold doesn't have the chance to grow. We use monitoring equipment to test moisture levels in the air and materials such as the flooring and walls. When drying any building, our goal is to drop moisture levels down to the conditions they were before the water leak took place.

When attempting to dry out your home, we use the industry's best drying equipment. We use advanced air movers and dehumidifiers to create the ideal environment to reduce moisture levels.

Whether your water-related problem is minor or severe, it is vital that you seek professional help. To get the best results when mitigating problems inside your home, call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268 for assistance any time of the day and every day of the week.

Click here for more about the city of Phoenix.

Flood Damage Assistance Throughout Uptown, Midtown, Downtown, And Central Phoenix

2/28/2018 (Permalink)

If floodwater enters your home, call on SERVPRO to restore your home and save your belongings.

By Calling SERVPRO , You Can Limit Your Losses after Flood Damage

After experiencing a flood on your Phoenix area property, always play it safe. The dangers not over just because the water goes down. You need to think of everyone’s safety before worrying about anything in or around your home. 

Remember, you need to check to make sure it is safe to go back, before ever setting foot in your Phoenix area home again. A professional flood damage restoration company can help you avoid possible hazards and provide you with the personnel, equipment, and resources necessary to get you on the right road to recovery. 

SERVPRO can assess flood damage on your property and prevent risks associated with re-entering your home. If you have to step over water to enter your property, shutting off the central power, water, and gas lines can help prevent additional problems that often lead to injury or death.

SERVPRO technicians help you avoid causing additional damages as you enter your home. If any door in your home sticks, it is probably swollen. If the door only sticks at the bottom, you can often force it open with little problem. However, if it sticks at the top, you may be facing drop-ceiling problems, where the ceiling on the other side is ready to fall. 

SERVPRO can retrieve your most valuable items, giving priority to money, jewelry, insurance papers, photographs, and family heirlooms that you cherish the most. Our technicians understand how to handle all of these items, protecting them from further damage and can restore many of them in most cases.

We have access to infrared moisture detectors, hygrometers, water extractors of all shapes and sizes, cleaning, deodorization, and disinfection equipment that makes your drying process as quick and efficient as possible. Our technicians help you get things under control as fast as humanly possible while limiting any losses you might experience as much as possible throughout the restoration.

Contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix for 24/7 emergency response, providing homeowners just like you with cleaning and restoration services throughout Uptown, Midtown, and Downtown. (602) 386-4268

Click here for more information regarding the city of Phoenix.

Never Panic When Mold Damage Hits Your Phoenix Property SERVPRO Has Working Options

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

The primary cause of mold damage in Phoenix is moisture.

Mold Damage Remediation

Mold damage can lead to health effects which not a single person wants to encounter. On top of that, its growth is likely to cause significant damage to your property, and there is a need to prevent its growth or conduct remediation procedures aimed at mitigating the resulting damage. So what are you options when you need to control such related issues in Phoenix?

The primary cause of mold damage in Phoenix is moisture. Without it, mold cannot grow, and that means the secret to controlling mildew growth lies in regulating the moisture content in your property. Our SERVPRO technicians understand that the dampness in your property can be as a result of indirect water intrusion, direct water intrusion, and intermittent intrusion.

Direct intrusion takes place when your roof or plumbing system leaks, your windows are poorly sealed, and water runs off from bathtubs and showers. Our SERVPRO team has the tools and skills to fix such issues, and it is crucial to call professionals immediately you discover an anomaly. When it comes to indirect water intrusion, we are talking about that rising damp. That can happen when moisture wicks up from underground, and your property ends up with wet concrete slabs, furniture, cabinets or carpets.

On the other hand, the cause of intermittent water intrusion may be condensation that results from inadequate ventilation, vaporizers, humidifiers, high humidity, and high steam. To lower the moisture content and improve air quality, we may set up dehumidifiers. The role of these devices is to extract that additional moisture from the air.

Once we dry the wet areas and stop moisture entry, we can perform deodorization. Here, we use thermal foggers that emit deodorizing agents that have antimicrobial capabilities to reduce chances of mold growth. SERVPRO is certified by IICRC to do mold remediation, and we have the right tools and follow to state regulations when doing our work.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is a trusted industry leader in mold remediation, and we take pride from our highly trained technicians. Call us at (602) 386-4268 and be offered proven restoration services.

Visit https://www.phoenix.gov/ for more about Phoenix.

How Your Phoenix Property Benefits from Water Damage Restoration Services

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Phoenix House Leak? Contact SERVPRO for Cleanup and Restoration

Quick Water Removal Mitigates Damages and Saves Possessions in Phoenix

Several hazards are likely to result by failing to address the water damage challenges as soon as they happen. For instance, your contents may suffer costly damage and with time what was salvageable may end up with permanent damage. Electrical hazards may also show up, and therefore we always advise residents of Phoenix to work with professionals even when they think the situation is not that serious.
 
Identifying and stopping the source of the water damage in your Phoenix property is the first step that our SERVPRO technicians perform. After that, we use detection equipment to determine the degree of water penetration. For general moisture detection in walls, carpets, and other areas, we use moisture sensors. However, for an accurate moisture reading and monitoring of the drying process, we use a moisture meter.
 
When there is some standing water in your structure, we have to extract it using the appropriate extraction equipment. With the help of portable or the truck mounted extractors, water removal is possible. Usually, our SERVPRO team uses moveable types when removing water from areas with limited access. Apart from removing the water, the extractors are also helpful when cleaning upholstery and carpets.
 
Creating an environment where the rate of drying is faster is necessary during the restoration. That is why our team enhances airflow through the use of air movers. After the water evaporates, it increases the air's moisture content which after sometime cools and settles on areas. To prevent that, we perform dehumidification

to lower the humidity of the air through the use of desiccant or refrigerant dehumidifiers.
 
When some contents absorb the water, they rot, and after some time unpleasant odors result. Where possible, we remove the sources of those smells and after that administer deodorants by using ULV foggers or thermal foggers to neutralize them.
 
SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is a proven leader in storm, mold, fire and water damage restoration. Call us at (602) 386-4268 to get trusted services that you deserve irrespective of the disaster size.

Regarding the central area of this city please click here

Protect Your Phoenix Area Restaurant with Professional Water Removal Services

2/2/2018 (Permalink)

You can never be too cautious when it comes to water damage in your restaurant or business, you can rely on SERVPRO to properly remediate the damage.

SERVPRO Technicians Have the Training and Knowledge to Safely Restore Your Property after Water Damage

Unfortunately, many employees fail to understand the hazards that water can present in your place of business. Making even small spills that occur in your Phoenix area restaurant dangerous. An uninformed employee can mishandle a water situation, allowing harmful bacteria, parasites, and other pathogens to enter your building without you even knowing they exist.

Whether you have a water intrusion caused by a faulty fire suppression system, plumbing problems, or broken appliances, you should contact a qualified expert for help immediately. We can provide your Phoenix property with expert water removal, cleaning, and restoration services that create a clean, healthy environment for your restaurant customers to enjoy.

SERVPRO’s fully certified IICRC technicians can help you determine which hazards exist, preventing many hazards that often accompany water intrusions. Since it can be hard to know what kind of situation you may be facing, our technicians use a variety of (PPE) personal protective equipment such as gloves, boots, goggles, masks, and even full-body suits to avoid exposure to harmful elements that may be present.

It is not safe for you or your customers to remain in a building with possible contamination. Therefore SERVPRO makes every effort to speed up your water removal, drying, and restoration process. We want to get your restaurant's doors open again as soon as possible and have a variety of water extraction, water detection, drying, and cleaning methods in our arsenal to help us get the job done fast.

SERVPRO technicians understand every aspect of water removal, putting hygrometers, infrared water detectors, dehumidifiers and air-movers to work immediately, returning water volume in a variety of materials to normal as quickly and efficiently as possible. We help prevent significant losses and save company assets that might receive critical damage without the proper attention.

Never assume that your water intrusion involves clean water, putting yourself in harm’s way is not worth the risk. There are qualified professionals available to assess your situation accurately and provide you with proven methods to regain control of any size water problem you may face.

Call SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to protect your businesses future, today. We can help 24/7, 365, including holidays, with full emergency response services and highly trained technicians ready to respond to your request for help. Call today. (602) 386-4268

Click here for more information on the city of Phoenix.

Fire Damage Cleanup After Lightning Strikes Your Phoenix Home

1/17/2018 (Permalink)

When lightning strikes your home, it is likely fires will start in the attic and inside the walls.

SERVPRO is Here to Help When Fire Damage Strikes

If you realize your home in Phoenix has been hit by lightning, you should call the fire department. It is common for fires to start in the attic and inside walls of homes when lightning strikes directly. These fires inside enclosed spaces might not be visible when they first start. Often, lightning which passes through a house branches and uses more than one path to ground at a time. It can jump from one conductive path to another as well.

Lightning can quickly start a fire and create fire damage to your Phoenix home. Once the fire is out, the damage can continue due to smoke and soot. SERVPRO can help you clean up this soot covering in your home and prevent additional damages. Once you contact us, we waste no time in getting to your home to help you.

Some soot residues are more straightforward to clean than others. Each fire goes through stages and crates both dry and wet smoke. Wet smoke is usually more difficult to clean.

More kinds of materials can be restored when exposed to dry smoke than wet. Dry smoke residues contain fewer aerosols and deposit small, dry particles on surfaces. It also does not stain surfaces as deeply as wet smoke, plus the odor is not as pungent. SERVPRO staff use cleaning procedures that are less aggressive to get rid of residues from dry smoke.

Restoration, when wet smoke residues are present, is more difficult, as they are harder to clean. Wet smoke usually has a high number of aerosols like solvents, varnishes, and other liquid components. During a slow-burning fire, air currents do not drive the smoke from the fire’s heat. Wet smoke also moves slowly and has time to get into crevices and enclosed areas which generally would not get contaminated by a fire that is burning fast.

Many times, contents exposed to wet smoke and a smoldering fire cannot be restored. Aerosols found in wet smoke penetrate and stain finished surfaces, and unfinished surfaces absorbed and entrap the residues.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix knows how to clean up all kinds of smoke residues, so your home in Encanto, Midtown Phoenix or Camelback East is thoroughly restored after a fire. Just get in touch with us at (602) 386-4268 as soon as the fire is out.

Click here for more information on Phoenix.

Cleaning And Removing Mold Damage In Phoenix

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning and removing mold is important to the health of your home and family.

Cleaning And Removing Mold

After cleaning up from one disaster, mold can cause further problems for Phoenix homes and residents. In a rush to remove water or smoke odors, homeowners often miss or ignore the first signs of mold growth.

Untreated mold damage in Phoenix homes can result in extensive repair costs. Worse, mold can cause adverse health effects in residents with existing respiratory problems. SERVPRO technicians have the training and tools to remove this threat to your home while working carefully to remediate the effects of and clean the mold spores from structural property such as drywall and wooden wall framing.

Mold spores become a threat when they have enough moisture to expand and extend hyphae to find a food source. A favorite source is drywall panels; they are in every home, and while they make an excellent building material for interior walls, it is also very vulnerable to mold spore hyphae. Ceiling tiles and insulation are also easily consumed.

If we catch the mold growth quickly enough, SERVPRO technicians can clean to remove mold from building material. There may be some minor pitting, but that does not affect the integrity of the material. If there is any risk of mold coming back, we spray an anti-fungal agent on every affected surface. Once the agent dries, we repaint the affected panels or tiles, so they look new.

If the mold has penetrated far into panels or tiles, even spraying an anti-fungal agent can be enough moisture to cause the item, particularly drywall, to crumble. When the integrity is this compromised, the only safe action to take to the home is to remove it.

Wall framing is much more resistant to mold, but since we rarely see behind drywall panels, a growth goes unnoticed for longer and has more time to infest the wood. Unless we are dealing with a home that was unoccupied for an extended period, our technicians can remove the mold without replacing the frame pieces. If the spores have not penetrated too deeply, we can even sand down the surface slightly. As with the tiles and panels, we spray every affected surface with an anti-fungal agent and allow it to dry before hanging new panels on them.

Cleaning and removing mold is important to the health of your home and family. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has over twenty years helping homeowners return to a safe, clean environment. If you need our services, call us today at (602) 386-4268.

Click here for more about the city of Phoenix.

Aging Pipes In Your Phoenix Home Could Create Water Damage

1/9/2018 (Permalink)

Pressure and Ruptured Water Pipes Can Lead to Damage in Phoenix Properties

Pressure Can Lead to a Call for SERVPRO When Plumbing Ruptures in Your Phoenix Home

When you think of indoor plumbing rupturing, most people consider excessively cold weather that freezes pipes. While this might not affect Phoenix homes, the area is still susceptible to water main breaks. When this occurs, and the portion of main is shut down to repair the break, air can enter the line. Depending on the quality of your backflow prevention system in your house, this air can enter your indoor plumbing quickly and provide a lot of pressure.
 
There are a plenty of Phoenix homes that become susceptible to water damage from events like these, and a bad enough break could ultimately affect numerous homes at once. For many houses, the indoor plumbing is sufficient to handle this added pressure for as long as it exists until air can work back out of the piping, but with older or improperly installed plumbing, this could lead to a water emergency for your home.
 
Our SERVPRO technicians have seen all manner of water damage, and we have the tools and expertise to clean up the mess for you. The process starts with eliminating the root of the problem, which means initially cutting the supply of water into your home via the primary service line valve. Shutting off the supply ensures that further damage does not occur and that your water utility bill does not skyrocket due to excessive demand pulling through the meter.
 
Depending on the severity of the damage that is visible when entering your home, our SERVPRO professionals get to work with our wide range of tools and equipment. Extraction of the water is often accomplished using wet-vacs, offering spot specific control for water removal efforts. Depending on where the break occurred, your drywall could be damaged and in need of repair as well. The assessment of repairs and further restoration requirements happens alongside our drying efforts with air movers and dehumidification equipment.
 
Many people are not aware of the condition or strength of their indoor plumbing until it fails. If you have any manner of a water emergency, do not hesitate to call our experienced team of professionals at SERVPRO of Central Phoenix. You can reach us 24/7 at (602) 386-4268.

Big Parks in the area, click here.

When You Need Water Removal At Your Phoenix Gas Station

12/24/2017 (Permalink)

Clogs and floods happen in service places which are open 24 hours a day. If your gas station or other store suffers flooding, contact SERVPRO quickly.

Our Team Arrives Quickly to Dry Out Any Water Damaged Areas of Your Business

When you have a 24-hour establishment like a Phoenix gas station, you cannot account for the wear and tear on the equipment that you use, especially when it has to be running continuously. It also means that some regions of your small building, such as the restrooms, are going to see a lot of action throughout the day. While your staff might work hard to keep up with the traffic that utilizes these facilities, you can never account for when one of these toilets decides to overflow from being backed up.
 
The resulting overflow of water can quickly make an insurmountable mess to not only the bathroom itself, but the floors of the entire gas station main areas. These dire circumstances create a situation that calls for fast-acting water removal services to your Phoenix business, and our SERVPRO team is the one to call. While you might have to initially shut down your business to account for the unsanitary and unsightly conditions that have ensued, our team can work to ensure that your doors are not staying closed for very long.
 
The first step is removing the source of the problem, meaning that our SERVPRO team is going to get the water shut off to the bathroom while the restoration efforts begin. With higher volumes that are likely present by now, our professionals bring out pumps to efficiently pull all of the water from the floors and begin to see about the extent of the remaining damage as the affected area gets thoroughly dried with air movers.
 
In these situations, it is common to disinfect and clean all of the areas that the water was touching before we removed it. After this process, our experienced team brings out deodorizing foggers which eradicate the lingering smell from the premises. This technology bonds with the odor molecules in the air and neutralizes it, rather than just attempting to mask the foul smell with a more powerful aroma.
 
You cannot account for the kind of problems that could demand water removal services to your 24-hour gas station, but if you are ever in need of such professional assistance, you can give SERVPRO of Central Phoenix a call. We can be reached 24/7 at (602) 386-4268.
 
For more information regarding Phoenix, Arizona, click here.

Flood Damaged Homes in the Phoenix Area Require Drying and Cleaning to Restore Habitable Conditions

11/22/2017 (Permalink)

Protect Your Phoenix Area Home from Flooding with SERVPRO'S Help

Removal of Storm Water and Contaminants Are Crucial for a Safe Home

When flooding happens, people are often surprised and shocked at the amount of damage that happens inside their homes. Phoenix residents whose homes flood because of new floodplains or nearby construction need to get their homes dried out and cleaned quickly. Otherwise, several other problems can quickly develop and cause future problems and expenses.

Homes in Phoenix that suffer from flood damage can become habitable again with the proper steps. Drying out an affected home is only half of the battle in saving a home. Flooding brings in untold amounts of debris full of pathogens and chemicals that can cause infections and other medical issues. We eliminate these and sanitize your flooded home so that you can live in it again safely.

To dry out your home, we use pumps for any remaining water. We treat saturated areas by heating them and increasing the circulation of the air around them. This includes all surfaces, and even though ceilings may never touch floodwaters, evaporation causes them to become saturated, also. Personal belongings can be transported to our site for temporary storage and to receive treatment that dries them out and then sanitizes them, removing any pathogens and other contaminants.

Sanitizing your home's interior keeps things safe for your family when they return home. Some items in your home require their removal and replacement because of the inability of any known methods to adequately clean them. These include carpeting, mattresses, and many food products, including those inside your refrigerator.

Carpeting cannot remain after a flood because of the ability of pathogens and other microbes to adhere to the many fibers in the carpet. Mattresses can harbor pathogens much the same way that carpet can. Food items, again, can hold microbes in tiny areas that defy even the best cleaning techniques. Safety and caution first.
 
To clean and sanitize your home we use the latest methods available. We want to ensure that your home protects you and your family. At SERVPRO of Central Phoenix, we have the tools and equipment to help us put our skills and training to work for you. Call us at (602) 386-4268 whenever you have flood damage or other disaster-related situations in your home.

More data and information about this area by clicking here.

How We Remove Water from Offices in Phoenix Faster and More Efficient Than Ever Before

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians know that your personnel need a clean, mold free environment to work in. That is why we are fast to arrive on the scene to begin.

Quick Water Removal in a Business Setting Goes a Long Way Towards Secondary Damage Prevention

It is no secret that speed is critical when removing water from Phoenix office buildings. Faster water removal helps to prevent mold damage, reduce effects of standing water, control humidity, and influences a host of other considerations that could otherwise cost your company thousands in restoration costs. SERVPRO has multiple systems in place that help us to respond faster and with better efficacy to business calls in the local area, granting us a reputation as one of the Valley's most well-qualified and reliable damage restoration companies.
 
Industrial-Grade Water Extraction
 
If your Phoenix office building needs standing water removal services, our selection of powerful and capable extraction tools guarantees that the process can be as fast as possible. Water extractors operate as portable, specialized pumps designed to remove water from an area as quickly as possible. With their help, SERVPRO technicians make short work of any remaining standing water in the building, on the ground floor or otherwise.

The ERP System
 
The SERVPRO ERP (Emergency Ready Profile) system allows you to create a customized, extensive profile for your company that may be used by us in a time of need. If the building takes damage while you have a profile in our ERP system, all it takes to call for our help is the press of a button. Enabling functions in the web-based ERP system allows us to respond faster, better understand the situation, and do more of the work for you in a disaster.
 
24/7 Mitigation Service
 
We have personnel ready and waiting to receive and respond to your calls at all hours, to ensure that as little time as possible passes between your initial call and our response. Our 24/7 schedule allows us to react quickly even in the earliest hours of the morning and prevent water from accumulating and remaining for hours longer than necessary. Call us at any hour and our technicians should arrive on-site within four hours of your contact.
 
SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is a locally-owned franchise with national resources that provides emergency damage mitigation and restoration services to property owners in the local area. Call us at (602) 386-4268.

For more information regarding Phoenix, click here

Tips on Preventing and Mitigating Water Damage in Phoenix

10/13/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Tip for Phoenix Properties--Prevent Water Damage with Clean Gutters

Phoenix Properties Benefit from Proactive Inspections and Awareness

SERVPRO has expert advisors and the necessary expertise to recommend some of the ways and means of mitigating water damage in your Phoenix home.

When excess water accumulates in your Phoenix home, it may cause major damages.  These range from the weakening of the foundations to the peeling off of paints, to the damage of fabrics, and furnishings. To mitigate these conditions effectively, SERVPRO recommends that you equip yourself with some tactics and ideas. This is because these dangers may often happen rapidly, and as such, require swift responses. Protecting your home after water intrusion by extraction and restoration is a cornerstone of our business.

SERVPRO recommends that you clean your roof gutters and downspouts often. You should do this, especially in the spring and summer months when the amount of precipitation is naturally higher. This is to minimize the clogs and the resultant side effects.
You should never attempt to pour grease down your sink. The grease can clog the sink and drainage. In so doing, it can impede the smooth flow of water and back up the water causing damage.

Taps or faucets that are not entirely closed are common causes of excess water in the home. Before retiring for the night or leaving the house for work, counter-check to ensure that all of them are completely shut off.

SERVPRO also suggests that you ensure that the rest of your plumbing is intact at all times. Be sure that they have no leaks, perforations, or other issues that may occasion water spillages. Replace old drain hoses from washing machines, inspect supply lines for leaks, and always periodically inspect your water heater for leaks or rust which can indicate an impending problem.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is always ready and willing to be of help to restore and clean up any damaging water event. Just give us a call via the hotline (602) 386-4268 anytime 24/7.

More info on this city here.

How Mold Damage Hits Phoenix In Hot, Dry Times

10/11/2017 (Permalink)

Mold damage can happen in Phoenix any time of year, regardless of weather, for a multitude of reasons.

Mold Damage

Phoenix may be going through a dry spell unusually long even for the harsh desert climate, but that does not mean the area is free of mold. Mold spores are always lurking and waiting for an opportunity to grow in your home and can pose a major problem even when the weather is dry, and temperatures are stifling. Mold damage can happen in Phoenix any time of year, regardless of weather, for a multitude of reasons. Here are a few ways mold could come to your home even when the city is at its hottest and driest.

Pipe Leaks
Hidden leaks consistently rank among the top causes of mold damage in the Phoenix area, and for good reason. These leaks are difficult to identify before they develop into a larger problem, and tend to occur in out-of-sight places like cabinets, spaces between walls, and high-up areas of the home. Even a small leak can create a significant mold problem if the flow (or drip) of water is consistent. This is the common cause of mold damage behind walls.

Humidity In Your Home
Some homes are much more humid than the surrounding environment. This may merely be a product of water fixture usage and HVAC system operations, or it may be due to the introduction of artificial humidifying devices. Regardless, the elevated humidity levels typical in most homes can provide some types of mold with all the water they need to begin to grow. SERVPRO is very careful in all mold remediation projects to monitor atmospheric humidity and make adjustments as needed.

Accidents And Events
Occasionally, individual events and actions in the home may lead to the development of a mold colony. Perhaps something died in an out-of-sight place, or a large container of water may have spilled across the floor and soaked into the carpet. Our services are flexible to accommodate a wide range of accidents and scenarios with maximum efficacy.

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is ready day-in and day-out to respond to local calls for help. For our assistance in dealing with a mold infestation, give us a call at (602) 386-4268.

Visit https://www.phoenix.gov/visitors for more about the city of Phoenix, Arizona.

Fire Damage Deodorization Services in Phoenix

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

You can rely on SERVPRO's IICRC-certified technicians to remove smoke odors and restore your home, "Like it never even happened."

Getting Rid of the Odors Left Behind from a House Fire

Fire is a very common, often unforeseeable disaster that can result in the loss of lives and physical destruction of homes, neighborhoods, and livestock in your Phoenix area. Perhaps the most frustrating aftermath of fire damage is the intolerable odor that lingers behind. Finding the source of these odors and then eliminating them requires vast knowledge and specific deodorization equipment.

If you are unfortunate enough to experience fire damage in Phoenix, our team of experts can support you throughout the restoration process. With many years of experience, we understand how distressing it can be when this type of tragedy occurs. Following IICRC guidelines, our technicians can restore your home to preloss condition quickly and efficiently to make it habitable again.

Effective fire damage deodorization requires using a combination of different techniques. This is because identifying and counteracting each source of odor with its own specific method is not realistic. In most cases, SERVPRO fire damage restorers can get rid of the bad smells without needing additional steps.

It is important to note that odor removal does not equal odor control. When it comes to deodorization, the first step is removing the source causing the odor. The second step is getting rid of any residues in the area. After cleaning, SERVPRO technicians follow up by air scrubbing or ventilating to get rid of odor molecules from the house.

Chemical containment is important in fire damage deodorization to prevent odor molecules from vaporizing into the air. This phase involves decontaminating odor-causing materials with a chemical deodorizer, which forms a barrier that keeps the odor molecules from escaping from the source material. To complete the process, our technicians neutralize any odor particles that may have vaporized into the air by applying advanced deodorant products into the surrounding air. The vapors from these products counteract the pungent smells they come across.

The cumulative effects of fire damage (which may involve evacuation, displacement, or relocation) should not be underestimated. As you protect your loved ones from the aftermath of the crisis, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can come in and begin the restoration process. For any assistance, call us today at (602) 386-4268.

For more information about the Phoenix Fire Department, visit https://www.phoenix.gov/fire.

Immediate Response When Dealing with Flood Damage Situations in Your Phoenix Area Home

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready to assist with your recovery from flood damage 24/7, 365.

Fast and Efficient Flood Damage Restoration Services

As massive storms plague our entire area, homeowners in Phoenix may find themselves falling victim to flooding. We want everyone to know that our entire team is available 24/7, 365, to assist with your recovery from this terrible ordeal.

It can help to have a professional restoration team on your side when flood damage occurs on your Phoenix area property. Whether you have questions about our restoration services or concerns about your current circumstances, we can help you manage the entire experience.

SERVPRO technicians respond immediately, providing you with flood damage restoration services; we are “Faster to Any Size Disaster” 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. You can count on us to be there when needed, giving you access to advanced restoration and cleaning services you can trust. 

All of SERVPRO’s technicians are IICRC-certified, giving us the ability to deal with any size situation, quickly and efficiently. Acting fast means that you have an opportunity to avoid permanent losses or extensive damage to your property after a flood. We often find solutions that help restore even the most at risk materials and dedicate ourselves to providing quality results you deserve.

SERVPRO can also help you prepare your home to battle incoming storm or flood damage. Our technicians understand where most problems occur and take the appropriate steps to mitigate damages that often happen during a flood. We can inspect your entire home, provide grading services, repairs to your downspouts and gutters, or install sump pumps and additional drainage that help keep water away from your home.

Should a flood occur on your property, our water extraction and drying process make your recovery as swift as possible. We have extractors of all shapes and sizes, along with infrared moisture detectors and hygrometers that make removing water a cinch. Our technicians find water everywhere in your home, preventing secondary damages and mold situations from occurring.

Make the call to SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to receive assistance. We are ready to help you recover throughout the entire Phoenix area, including Encanto and Camelback East, call today. (602) 386-4268

For more information about Phoenix, visit https://www.phoenix.gov/.

Truck Or Portable Pump to Mitigate Water Damage to Your Phoenix Business?

9/12/2017 (Permalink)

Whatever the water source, whether it be a cracked pipe or equipment malfunction, SERVPRO is ready to remediate the damage that follows. Call today.

Our Technicians Bring the Right Tools When Handling a Water Damage Situation Where You Work

Business owners in Phoenix know that sometimes accidents happen which close doors for a few days. No one ever wants such an incident to occur, but the fact is, no matter how safety conscious a business owner is, there is always some risk of fire, natural disasters, or water damage. A broken appliance or damaged pipe causes water to leak into your premises and cause all kinds of problems, from equipment damage to soaking into floors, carpets, and office furniture.
 
In the event of water damage to your Phoenix business, the obvious first step is to call SERVPRO at once – We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. We train our IICRC-certified technicians, so they have all the skills necessary to deal with the situation quickly and effectively.
 
Fast action means you can get back open for business in next to no time, and that means less time lost and less of a drop in profit. The delayed action, however, keeps your business closed for longer and might cause an even bigger financial impact.
 
One of the questions in any water damage situation is whether to use a truck mounted or portable pump to extract water from your office, factory or shop. We equip all our teams with both free-standing and truck mounted pumps so no matter what the situation, we have the right tools to hand.
 
Both pumps have their advantages.
 
Truck mounted pumps offer more power than their portable counterparts. Each unit has power and a water supply which means there is no need to find an external source of electricity or water. Vehicle mounted units have a greater capacity than free standing units, so they do not need to be emptied so much. Truck pumps are capable of pumping water uphill. The ability to pump uphill is important for businesses located on an incline.
 
Portable pumps are more convenient in some situations. With a mobile unit, our technicians can move from room to room and floor to floor easily. Free-standing pumps are also great for getting into small spaces and tight corners. In some cases, having the hose from a truck mounted pump running through your business might be an inconvenience. In such a case, a portable pump is better.
 
One thing is certain – no matter what the situation, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix has the equipment to extract water in Phoenix Sky Harbor, Camelback East, Encanto and the surrounding areas. Call us today at (602) 386-4268 for help.

For more information regarding Phoenix, click here

SERVPRO Makes a Difference in Restoring Fire Damage in Your Phoenix Area Home

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

To avoid hazards, call SERVPRO before reentering your home after a fire.

Rely on SERVPRO for your fire restoration needs

No one is perfect; accidents occur on a regular basis in any home. SERVPRO responds to requests for fire damage restoration in the Phoenix area quite often. Everyone is equally susceptible to fire. Fire does not discriminate, furiously wreaking havoc on anyone, regardless of your situation in life.

A small fire in your Phoenix area home can leave behind extreme fire damage. If the charred area left by the flames isn't bad enough, you also get to deal with smoke, soot, and ash residue, along with the damage that continues long after the flames are out. Anyone who experiences a fire needs help to recover properly, the hazards alone make seeking professional help your best chance at recovery.

The fire may start in a localized area, such as your kitchen. However, the heat and temperature of the fire push smoke and ash particles much further. They can reach far outside the initial point of combustion. If you had your ventilation system running at the time of the incident, your entire home could be at risk. You need someone, like the professionals at SERVPRO, to perform at an optimal level to restore your home quickly.

You should contact our offices before attempting to reenter your home after a fire. SERVPRO can locate and remove hazards, identify key areas, and help you reduce any costs associated with your claim by providing you with a one-stop solution to every problem that exists. We spend countless hours training so that we can offer services that make handling emergency situations easier. There is no reason for you to take these tasks on alone, in fact, you may find that we can save many items or personal belongings that you might have considered a total loss.

When you are looking for a resolution to fire damage in your home, contact our office. Our technicians do everything in their power to make the damages disappear, “Like it never even happened.” Take advantage of our expertise, get the results you deserve and get things back to normal quickly. 

SERVPRO of Central Phoenix stands ready to present you with IICRC-industry certified technicians, advanced industrial-grade equipment, and vast resources that make your recovery, easier, call today. (602) 386-4268

For more information about the city of Phoenix, visit https://www.phoenix.gov/.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration Services For A Phoenix Food Store

8/4/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage Can Close a Deli in Phoenix, Call SERVPRO for Fast Help

SERVPRO Safely Cleans and Restores Water Damaged Businesses

Dripping rainwater from the roof or a pipe leakage in a restaurant or food delivery store is the last thing any restaurant owner needs. It can cause water contamination on food items, resulting in all sorts of illnesses and spoilage. Unless addressed immediately, the business may be ordered shut either due to numerous complaints, or a random visit by a food inspector.
 
If you notice any water leaks in your food store, it is imperative that you call a water removal company right away. For emergency commercial water damage restoration services in Phoenix, contact SERVPRO. We have IICRC certified technicians who can respond promptly and return your business to preloss conditions.
 
Usually, our water damage restoration experts have to prepare a list of items that require cleaning. To do this, we must evaluate all the elements in the affected area thoroughly. Wood furniture and dining booths, in particular, are highly vulnerable to moisture and requires cleaning and polishing after moisture damage.
 
If the moisture was there for too long, it might affect your insulation beyond repair, especially if it is matted. Fiberglass is different from other types of insulation as it is not very susceptible to moisture. Cellulose insulations, for instance, lose their “R” value, antimicrobial properties, and fire resistance upon exposure to excess moisture. Rockwool, on the other hand, contains metal that is prone to rust when wet.
 
In some cases, the water may travel through the walls and cause moisture damage. Our technicians use moisture meters to determine the presence of water there. To completely dry the structure, we may utilize a closed or open system.
 
The open air system involves exchanging moist air inside with the dry air outside, while the closed drying system involves isolating the affected area from dry ones with plastic sheeting containment barriers. We rely on a balanced drying system to avoid secondary damages.
 
Our water removal services also encompass getting rid of mold. Water damages provide a favorable environment for mold to grow and spread, particularly due to the increased moisture and humidity levels. With food, whether dry goods, canned, refrigerated, or frozen on the premises, a rich source of potential fungal proliferation is present.

Water damage can compromise the health standards of your food store. When this happens, SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is readily available to provide the necessary commercial water damage removal services. Call us today (602) 386-4268.

More information on this city here.

Emergency PROFILE Ready Plan is Simple but Crucial in Preserving Your Investments in the Face of a Phoenix Fire

7/31/2017 (Permalink)

Phoenix Fire Prevention and Preparation Starts with SERVPRO's ERP Plan

Damages from Fire & Smoke, Water, and Storms Are Mitigated with the ERP Program

When a fire, flood, or mold disaster affects your housing units, office space, or other real estate investment, fast action is required. As the seconds tick by, damage levels, and costs for repair and restoration, increase dramatically. This extra damage is preventable, even if the disaster is not, but requires preparation.

Becoming better prepared and being able to respond more quickly than ever before has been passed onto the average person by the use of SERVPRO's powerful Emergency PROFILE Ready Plan. An assessment of each Phoenix fire damaged property under your control is conducted to gather the required information that populates each Profile's data sheet. This is also on a mobile app for always available use.
 
Since these profiles can be shared by a link sent as an email once they have been created, the information given to all receiving it remains consistent, resulting in little room for error regardless of who responds, even years later, or even by employees who have not yet been hired. Future employees can be provided this information as part of their training. It takes more than a fire extinguisher to be prepared for possible emergencies. Get the ERP.
 
Whoever is on duty at the time of a disaster can locate all of the needed information with just a few presses on their mobile device or mouse clicks on their computer. Photos of locations where shut off valves and breaker boxes help those individuals present at the time of the disaster find these spots faster than making a frantic phone call might. All of this, the assessment, the assistance, and the app itself, are all provided free of charge, but it results in a priceless means of preparation that can save so much.
 
When any disaster happens, contacting us is also built-in to the app. Your first contact informing us of what type is simple and only requires a few key presses. After we know about your disaster, we can start the resolution of the catastrophe.
 
We are SERVPRO of Central Phoenix and are always ready to help you in the event of any size disaster, and beforehand, as well. Call us anytime at (602) 386-4268 for both prevention tips that can reduce the amount of time involved in mitigation and setting up your READY Plan.

For fire imformation in Phoenix click here.

Phoenix Flood Damage Affects Furnishings

7/31/2017 (Permalink)

Rely on SERVPRO for Post Flooding Furniture Cleanup at Your Phoenix Property After Dog Removal

Upholstered Furniture Needs Special Drying to Mitigate Water Damage

Plumbing failures are responsible for most of the water damage in the average home each year. A split intake hose for a washer can put hundreds of gallons of water into a home just as quickly as a rising creek or spillway. A rusted-out water heater can spill enough water in nearby hallways and bedrooms to quickly ruin the carpet. But severe water damage typically results from storm damage.
 
To restore a Phoenix home after flood damage, SERVPRO has created a process that helps us protect every home and its contents. We first consider if the water has been contaminated. For clear or gray water, we can typically dry and restore and not replace. Our decades of experience in the restoration industry have helped us come up with practical steps that work in every home and situation when it comes to drying out and protecting upholstered furniture.
 
First, we pull every piece of furniture off the carpet. Until dried, every carpet is a constant source of water that leaches finish and stains fabrics. As members of the work crew begin drying out carpets, others turn their attention to sofas, recliners and other furniture.
 
After moving the furniture to a dry area, we tent all cushions and place waxed paper between them. Tenting ( plastic sheeting to reduce the air volume and focus on the water damaged items) prevents the colors from bleeding and helps to speed up the time needed to dry them. With that started, one of our IICRC industry certified inspectors carefully checks each furniture item and calculates our restoration costs against the expense of replacing the items. Once the customer signs off, we continue working on every approved piece.
 
To keep the color uniform, we may need to dampen an entire section of fabric and then dry it as a single piece. Dampening ensures any color changes are even across the item and do not leave spots or stains.
 
Our next step is to place dehumidifiers next to cushions and other upholstered items like sofas. These devices draw moisture out of the cushions and the surrounding air. Technicians also set-up air movers to force warm, dry air across the surfaces, reducing the amount of time it takes to dry them.
 
If there are zippers and metal buttons present, we hand dry those since they tend to rust quickly. After drying them, technicians insert pads or more waxed paper between these accessories and the fabric to prevent any chance of rust stains.
 
Restoring your sofas, recliners and other upholstered furniture is a lengthy process. These are not items that can be set outside in the back yard and left to dry in the sun. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is ready to not only dry out your home but to help return your life to its pre-flood state. If you would like to schedule an inspection and free estimate, call us today at (602) 386-4268.

Information on Phoenix.

A Difficult But Essential Job, Crime Scene Cleanup in Phoenix

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

For Crime Scene Cleanup in Phoenix Call SERVPRO

Rely on SERVPRO for a Professional Approach to Cleanup After a Crime Has Occurred

The aftermath of trauma or a crime needs cleanup and closure, and no town, city, or area of the country is immune to this need. Only specially trained disaster restoration company technicians are certified to complete this disturbing and necessary job. SERVPRO offers this critical service in our community.
 
It is overwhelming to have to deal with the knowledge that a traumatic event occurred in your home. Whether or not you were present in the room where the crime happened, you must cope with the knowledge every day after that. As the authorities depart from the crime scene, you must arrange for a biohazardous cleanup of your Phoenix home. Our trauma and crime scene cleanup division helps you with this challenging task, following all federal, state, and local rules to keep both residents and work crew members safe until the job is complete.
 
When a crime happens in your house, the affected areas are not your own until an official inquiry is conducted and completed. All manner of evidence collecting materials eventually litter the spaces including fingerprint powder and other chemicals. If an injury or death occurred, there might be blood and other bodily fluids and tissues, potentially containing bloodborne pathogens. The procedure used that cleans and disinfects the surfaces contaminated with residues is prescribed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). SERVPRO ensures that all technicians responding to crime scene cleanup have the appropriate training and certifications.
 
Substances used to subdue like teargas or pepper spray are irritants not easily cleaned by conventional means. If drugs were present, their compounds are pervasive, found on surfaces and in the air, and all remnants must be cleaned up and properly discarded for you to live safely in your own home again. The SERVPRO crime scene teams manage this cleanup as well, taking care to leave your home as close to pre-crime as possible.
 
Throughout any crime scene clean up our employees demonstrate respect and empathy to those returning to the home. Compassionate and committed to doing their very best, crime scene technicians take pride in the services they offer you.
 
Should the unthinkable happen and your need crime scene cleanup, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix at (602) 386-4268. Everyone, from office staff to the technicians who respond wants to help you out during this tough time.

Info on Phoenix right here.

Investigating and Restoring Mold Damage in Central Phoenix

6/30/2017 (Permalink)

Don't ignore mold in your home. It can spread quickly and do a great deal of damage. Contact SERVPRO today to start the remediation process.

SERVPRO Technicians Root Out the Cause of Mold Damage in Your Home

A mold infestation can grow across bathrooms, kitchens, and living rooms. It usually appears as a series of splotches or streaks across walls and ceilings. In many cases there is also an accompanying odor that is the first signal to a homeowner there may be a problem.

Mold damage is not just a visual problem though. It is also responsible for permanent damage to organic material in Central Phoenix homes. Knowing how to combat the damage and prevent further problems requires a company trained in remediation and restoration of mold in the structure and personal property. SERVPRO has extensive experience and training supporting Arizona homes and residents.

Our first task is to control the mold at its source. We set up containment around the affected area using heavy plastic sheeting to cover entrances and exits and then seal the HVAC vents to prevent mold from spreading through the duct work. Technicians also set up negative air machines to reduce the number of airborne spores while they remove mold from the affected area.

Next, we remove the contamination. Any structural or personal property item we cannot clean, we dispose of according to local regulations. Before moving any item out of the containment area, technicians clean it using vacuums with HEPA filters, dry wiping with sponges or cloths, and using anti-fungal and anti-microbial cleaning agents.

After removing the mold, we lower the moisture levels to normal. The fastest way to bring down the humidity is to use air movers and exhaust fans to replace the damp air inside the affected area with drier air from outside the structure. Technicians also place dehumidifiers to draw moisture from the air.

Cleaning the contaminated area and property and removing loose mold does not prevent further growth with excess moisture in the air or surrounding property such as drywall. Spores from outside the affected area move in once we remove the containment sheeting and then it starts again.

Removing mold and restoring your home is not a simple or short process. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix is ready to help you through it however and explain every step as we go. If you need our services or just suspect you have a mold problem, call us at (602) 386-4268 today.

For more information regarding Central Phoenix, click here

Your Phoenix Area Home and Fire Damage

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

Restore Your Fire Damaged Home in Phoenix with SERVPRO's Help and Expertise

Rely on SERVPRO for Great Restoration After a Fire

Dealing with a fire itself can be rough, but then you get into dealing with your insurance company, and it turns into something else entirely. If you file your paperwork incorrectly or say something the wrong way, your insurance company may just decline to pay.
 
Even if you do not have fire damage insurance for your Phoenix area home, you can get the help you need. Try to get help through an online fundraiser; people may very well help you out if they feel that your cause is just. You can also go to your church for help, The American Red Cross, or even FEMA. There is an abundance of disaster relief programs available in your area, the point is, never give up before you have exhausted every alternative.
 
SERVPRO shares your eagerness, thoughts, and concerns over recovering your property after a fire. We always steer our mentality to restoration before replacement. If an item is restorable, we do our best to get it done the right way. We have an entire team of expertly trained technicians who prioritize certain aspects of your restoration, striving to reduce interruptions and minimize the number of losses you experience after a fire.
 
While every situation has its unique circumstances, having a preferred vendor, like SERVPRO, helps reduce costs and get you the best results possible. We do everything from inspecting everything to eliminate potential hazards to putting the finishing touches on your restoration, providing you with a one-stop source for all of your restoration needs, and more.
 
SERVPRO IICRC industry certified technicians have helped homeowners just like you overcome fire damage of all shapes and sizes. A small kitchen fire or an entire structural fire can look far worse than it is. Your stove's ventilation hood might melt while if, given the right attention, your countertop, cabinets, walls, floor, and ceiling recover nicely. It just takes training and experience to understand what to do to help get everything looking normal again.  
 
SERVPRO of Central Phoenix provides you with more than normal recovery services; we go beyond what someone might expect. Call us today for access to true fire damage restoration services. (602) 386-4268

Meet the firefighters of Phoenix right here.

Getting Proper Help To Combat Water Damage Situations Occurring In your Phoenix Area Home

6/13/2017 (Permalink)

Phoenix Water Problem? Call SERVPRO for Swift Help

SERVPRO Provides Professional Restoration Post Water Intrusion

Water can be quite ruthless; it can bore through solid materials like concrete or blocks if given enough time and cleverly makes its way into any crack or crevice found on your property. It is thoughtless, unconcerned, or impartial to whether or not it does damage to your home.
 
A professional water damage restoration specialist in Phoenix can help you fight back against water issues plaguing your home.  With a variety of tools, experience, and training a quality technician can make the most of what your insurance company provides and work hard to produce the results you deserve. There is no reason for you to take problems like this on alone, in fact, it is likely better that you seek help from the start.
 
SERVPRO  technicians respond to a variety of water intrusion situations, providing customers with a solution to each one in detail. During the winter months, you may have problems with frozen or broken pipes. When a pipe bursts, you can easily find your home filled with over 6-inches of water within minutes.
 
Some SERVPRO customers have had issues with their pool. Where you empty, clean, and then refill your pool, only to become distracted, having chlorinated water run across their freshly manicured lawn directly into their basement, flooding storage and causing significant damages.
 
SERVPRO also responds to a variety of issues concerning washing machines or dishwashers. A malfunctioning appliance can flood your home within minutes, leaving little time to react. Causing serious damage to your flooring, furniture, and belongings, or even leading to additional hazards that make it hard to recover.
 
It takes industrial-grade water extraction equipment and infrared moisture detectors to get water out of every nook and cranny; it is just not enough to mop up and move on. Cleaning, deodorization, and sanitation technicians with the proper IICRC certification provide you with your best opportunity for recovery.
 
All you have to do is contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix to receive quality one-stop solutions; we can help you recover from most of the problems that occur in your home, call today. (602) 386-4268

Meet the Mayor of Phoenix here.

Flooding and How the Quality of Water affects You.

10/14/2016 (Permalink)

If you experience flash flooding and water rises above the main level of your home, you need to be aware of the quality of the water soaking through your drywall and damaging your floors. This water is called “Cat 3” or Category 3, the worst quality of water measured. Cat 3 water can contain chemicals, carcinogens, sewage, and dead animals. It is important you do not come in direct contact to Cat 3 water. As a professional restoration company, SERVPRO® of Phoenix at 480-503-2090, 24/7 365, is experienced at extracting the water and removing all materials affected by this type of water. We also use EPA registered antimicrobial solutions to kill bacteria and make the structure safe for human habitation. Our technicians are trained to take care of your possessions and we will be with you every step of the way.

The Responsibility of the Homeowner in a Water Loss.

10/14/2016 (Permalink)

It seems obvious, but the absolute first thing you do when encountering a pipe burst and water pouring through your home is to turn off the water. You need to have at your disposal a water meter wrench (you can get one for less than $20.00 from your local hardware or Big Box store). Some houses and most commercial properties have a main water shut off valve inside the house, but most do not, and it is important to train everyone from teenagers to seniors how to use the wrench to cut off your water meter. The difference between a 500 gallon water loss and a 5,000 gallon water loss can be enormous. Next call us, SERVPRO® of Phoenix at 480-503-2090, 24/7 365, and your insurance agent. We can refer a competent plumber to repair any damage to water pipes. If you call a plumber first, beware of those who offer to have “someone they trust” come to remove the water and dry the house. Make sure they have all of the proper certifications.   Our goal is to return your house to pre-loss condition as affordably as possible. Just remember this: We are….faster to any disaster!

What does it matter if I dry a water loss or not?

10/14/2016 (Permalink)

In the 90’s Mold became the Cause Celeb, especially that strain of “Black” Mold, Stachybotrys, that struck fear in the hearts of thousands of Americans. Even though that hysteria has passed, it is no joking matter to have mold growing in your home. It is true that mold spores are everywhere, but for mold to grow you have to have two things: 1) food; and 2) water. There is very little you can do to remove all “food” sources in a house, but you can eliminate the water factor. When you have a water loss, it is incredibly important to completely dry the area affected so mold will not grow. If you call SERVPRO® of Phoenix at 480-503-2090,  24/7 365 , we will make sure your house is dry.

"Water, Water Everywhere/Nor any Drop to Drink"

10/13/2016 (Permalink)

These famous lines from Samuel Taylor Coleridge's poem, "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" are spoken by a sailor on a becalmed ship, in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by salt water and speak to the desperation one feels when events are out of control.  We at SERVPRO of Phoenix are familiar with helping property owners who feel that way and can help them get back in control with our experienced technicians and our state of the art drying equipment.  We practice the Science of Drying.....and we specialize in restoring your property.  We are a "One Stop Shop" - a company who can dry your property, take care of your contents, and rebuild if necessary.  Call us at 480-503-2090 and we will be there 24/7, 365.