Using a Commercial Drying Specialist After Water Damage

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration in Lago Vista, TX.

After flooding, water clean up in a commercial building in Lago Vista, TX, can be complex. A lot depends on the category of water that caused the damage and how much of your building was affected. A certified water damage expert can lead the mitigation process and ensure your property is professionally handled.

Water Categories

Water damage falls into three categories:

Category 1: Clean water. Examples are water from a broken pipe or an overflowing sink
Category 2: Gray water. Broken toilets and sump pumps are examples.
Category 3: Black water. Standing water and sewage are in this category.

First Steps of Water Clean Up
If you call a professional restoration service to respond, technicians come to your business any time of night or day. They survey the damage, stop the water source if necessary, explain the severity and create an action plan.
Technicians normally begin by removing and extracting excess water. They use industrial pumps and equipment to take out the hundreds or thousands of gallons of water that may be present.
The company determines what materials and belongings can be restored and what needs to be replaced. They help with the mitigation and remodeling procedure as required.

The Drying Process
It's good to work with a restoration company that has IICRC-certified technicians. The IICRC is a nonprofit organization that shapes industry standards and provides training. Commercial drying specialists have expertise in technical drying methods for industrial facilities and equipment. They also have training in inspection, evaluation and workflow surveillance.
During the commercial drying process, technicians remove unseen water. They use special equipment to complete this process and monitor progress, usually during daily visits.
A professional restoration service has the expertise and equipment to handle your Lago Vista, TX, water clean up after a flood or water damage event. Calling one is a good way to start the cleanup and drying process.

What Does Commercial Property Insurance Policy Cover?

10/11/2022 (Permalink)

Business property insurance is a wise investment.

What Is Covered by a Commercial Property Insurance Policy?

Business property insurance can be confusing. What does it cover? What does it not cover? And if you do need to file a claim, how do you know when that's the case? Here's a quick guide to business property coverage, including what it covers and what kind of factors affect your premiums. We'll also show you how to determine whether you need additional coverage.

Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value

Replacing the property is an important part of any commercial property insurance policy. The cost to rebuild the property will be covered by your policy if it's destroyed, but the amount of money you'll receive is dependent on your insurance company and the type of coverage you have.

One option is replacement cost coverage, which pays for rebuilding a destroyed building with new materials and equipment. This type of coverage may cost more than actual cash value (ACV), but it provides a higher level of protection should another disaster strike. ACV does not cover all repair costs due to depreciation or obsolescence; for example, if your office building was built in 2020 and later suffered damage that required removal of asbestos insulation before repairs could begin, ACV would not cover these costs because they're outside what would normally happen over time without being damaged.

Loss of Business Income

• Business Interruption Insurance: This type of coverage provides compensation for the loss of income you may incur when your business is damaged or destroyed.
• Business Income Coverage: This type of coverage provides compensation for lost profits due to business interruption, as well as expenses incurred while the property is being restored/repaired (known as extra expense), providing financial protection during this time.
• Loss of Use Coverage: This type of coverage offers financial protection if your business can't operate because it's no longer possible or practical to use it—for example, because it’s been damaged by fire or weather-related events like windstorms or tornadoes. You'll receive a cash payment based on the value of what you had before this happened, which may help replace some expensive equipment that was lost in the disaster but not covered under other parts of the policy

Property Damage

Property Damage Insurance covers damage to the building itself, not to its contents. Examples of property damage include:

• Fire, wind, and hailstorm damage
• Damage caused by or relating to water or other fluids that are not your own
• Earthquake damage (if you're in an earthquake zone)

Extra Expense

Extra expense insurance can be confusing because it's an "umbrella" term for three different types of coverage: business interruption, property damage and extra expense. But what do these terms mean?

Business interruption insurance pays you a preset amount each month (called the "loss of use allowance") if your building is damaged or destroyed by an insured event, so long as you continue paying your premiums and comply with all policy requirements. This benefit typically includes equipment rental costs while losses are being repaired or replaced; however, some policies exclude certain types of equipment or require additional deductibles before coverage kicks in.

Property damage protection helps pay for repairs after an insured incident causes physical damage to a structure such as fire or windstorm but doesn't include any eventual loss of use associated with it (e.g., rent payments).

Business Property Insurance is a Wise Investment

In today's business climate, it's more important than ever to protect yourself from unexpected losses. Business property insurance offers coverage for your property and assets in case of a fire or other disaster. You can also get coverage for liability, which ensures that you're covered if someone is injured on your premises or if one of your employees causes an accident offsite.

Business property insurance can help you save money on taxes by allowing you to deduct the cost of insuring your property against damage caused by natural disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes.

If you are looking into buying commercial real estate, it's important to ensure that the building is properly insured before signing any contracts with tenants or buyers. This way, if something happens to the building before closing (like getting flooded), then its value won't decrease significantly due to water damage alone.

Business property insurance is a wise investment. It can protect you against unexpected losses that may cost you time and money.

The Importance of Supporting Insurance Adjusters and Their Clients Efficiently

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

Drying out a commercial building

The Importance of Supporting Insurance Adjusters and Their Clients Efficiently

If you have experienced a disaster, chances are you are feeling overwhelmed, and may not know where to start. While you may understand that you need assistance during this time, you may not realize just how much the right help can make a difference. If you live in Spicewood, TX, and have experienced a disaster, here are some things to keep in mind. 

1. Quick Response Makes a Difference
Whether you are an insurance adjuster or a client of one, getting a quick response during a disaster can make a significant difference in how straightforward it will be to repair any damage that has been done to a property. SERVPRO can help ensure that there is a quick response to a variety of disaster situations, and better storm damage repair services overall.

2. A Supported Insurance Adjuster Can Work More Efficiently
There can be a lot of information to obtain when there has been a disaster, there can also be many processes to undertake. While these things are important to do for an insurance adjuster, they can also take time. When an adjuster is supported and has the help they need they will be better able to complete their tasks more quickly, which can mean more efficient repairs for a property owner. 

3. Clients Have Better Outcomes With Quick Service
During a disaster, damage can escalate quickly, whether it is fire or water, or storm damage. Being able to get an insurance claim sent in in a timely manner can mean quicker storm damage repair service, and less damage to fix overall. This can also mean that the property owner can get back on track in a shorter time frame, as well. 
If you have experienced a disaster, you are likely feeling a lot of stress. The good news is, though, that there are ways you can help ensure that you are taken care of in a more timely manner so that you can get your life back on track. 

Commercial Roof Upkeep

9/30/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial roof inspection

Commercial Roof Maintenance

If you are a Spicewood, TX, business owner, you probably take a lot of pride in maintaining your business. Protecting it against roof damage is one way that you can show others how much you care about your company. Here are some tips to remember to keep your proof in its best shape all year.

1. Consider waterproofing. There are several options for waterproofing materials that seal your roof and protect it from sunlight, rain and other causes of cracks. Many can be used without professional help and are fairly easy to apply.

2. Complete some landscape work. Trees and branches can lead to wind damage or damaging debris if they are hanging too far over the roof. You do not want to run the risk of a fallen tree damaging your business and causing safety hazards. Get professional landscaping help if needed to keep your plants safely trimmed.

3. Make inspections a regular routine. Your roof should be given a thorough inspection by whoever knows the most about it at least twice each year. Damaged drainage pipes, cracks and other roof damage red flags should be addressed as soon as possible in order to avoid a complete roof rebuild.

4. Know where to get help. If the worst case scenario occurs and you are left with damage in the aftermath of a Spicewood, TX, storm, local commercial storm damage restoration specialists should be able to help you figure out a cleanup and repair plan to get your business back in the shape it was before the bad weather hit. If you need immediate help, there are many teams that are available to arrive on a 24/7 basis for emergency cleaning.

No one wants to think about the bad things that could happen to their commercial building, but taking care of your property before something urgent occurs can help you prevent any excessive roof damage from occurring in the future.

Fire Prevention Tasks for Your Business

9/23/2022 (Permalink)

Having a fire sprinkler system will provide fire protection for your business.

Work to Prevent Fires in Your Business

A fire can cause severe damage to business equipment, materials, and structures. As a business owner, focusing on fire risk assessment, fire prevention, and staff education can help reduce your chance of fire and smoke damage. Here are three tips to help:

Assess the risk of fire hazards : The National Fire Protection Association offers handbooks and other publications on the fire safety code in place for businesses. Have a local fire marshal visit to assist you in creating a plan or give you an assessment. Some local governments offer this. Ask your building’s property manager to give you a workplace fire risk assessment, if a marshal isn’t available.

Have fire protection equipment : Having an automatic sprinkler system in place will provide primary fire protection for your business.

Standard fire safety practices require smoke detectors and fire extinguishers on every floor. Multipurpose extinguishers are the best bet, dousing most small fires with ease, without shorting out your electronics.

Protect your people : Employees are your most important business asset. Follow these tips to prevent injuries:

• Fire Plan : Make sure your employees know what to do, where to find the evacuation protocol, and to call 911 immediately. Conduct a fire drill at least once a year to keep employees aware of your workplace fire safety protocol. 
• Evacuation Plan : In larger buildings, post a fire evacuation plan in several spots around the workplace. Do not include elevators in the evacuation plan; use the stairs instead. 
• First Aid : In case of fire injuries, keep a first aid kit where most hazards will occur, such as a kitchen, and ensure your employees are familiar with the locations of all first aid kits.

Fire damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property. If your business experiences a fire loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis /NW Austin. We’ll respond immediately to get you back to business, “Like it never even happened.”

What an IICRC Certification Means to You

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO restoration specialists are certified by the IICRC

What an IICRC Certification Means to You

When your insurance client in Anderson Mill, TX, has damage to a home or business due to flooding or fire, you need a professional who is certified according to rigorous standards. SERVPRO is certified by IICRC, standing for Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. It's a certification you can trust.
The mission of the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification is to establish globally recognized standards for inspection and cleaning as well as restoration. Only the most highly trained and skilled experts can be certified by this group.

The Benefits of IICRC Certification
Certified technicians are rigorously prepared and take continuing education to ensure they provide the best services possible. They have the skills necessary to handle hazardous jobs safely and efficiently. Certified businesses work hard to earn and maintain the trust their clients have come to expect. SERVPRO restoration specialists are Here to Help.
SERVPRO provides the highest standards of restoration and cleaning by providing the following training programs for employees:

Employee certification training in the restoration of damages caused by fire and water.
Training in cleaning carpets and upholstery.
Continuing education for insurance agents and insurance adjusters as well as SERVPRO professionals and real estate agents in areas of emergency mitigation. Those who complete this course can earn a mitigation certificate.
Web-based continuing education that's self-paced for those who have taken any of SERVPRO's other courses.
Certification training in inspection and cleaning as well as restoration.

SERVPRO is certified by the IICRC to offer year-round classes on restoration and cleaning topics including fire and water restoration and applied structural drying.
When you need a professional restoration company to help your client recover from damages, trust those who have the education and experience and who are certified as the best in the industry. That way, your client's property will be good as new.

How To Fix a Sewage Backup in Your Bathtub

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

A sewer backup can damage your home if left unattended.

How to Address a Bathtub Sewage Backup

It’s a problem you as a homeowner in Spicewood, TX, never want to face – sewer backup into your shower or bathtub. How does it happen? You may flush your toilet one day and notice the drain is slower than normal and then the next time you flush, the waste and water suddenly appear in your bathtub. Since the problem is hidden deep inside your plumbing pipes, you may not know how to handle the situation. Here are four helpful hints.

1. Assess the Situation
Turn the water valve to the toilet off to ensure it doesn’t get flushed again. Then, although it sounds unpleasant, look to see what type of bathtub backup has blown up through the pipes with the sewage. Check for dirt, rocks, or plant roots because it could mean a broken sewer line in addition to a clogged line.

2. Contact a Professional
You may be tempted to try and fix the sewer backup with the help of a plunger, but if the clog is serious enough to completely block the line, you probably need the advice of a water mitigation technician. He or she has access to tools such as cameras and line-snakes that can often open the blocked line quickly to prevent further flooding.

3. Clean the Area
Once the line is open, and the water is running free, the water specialist can begin cleaning the area to remove the residue that is still inside the bathtub after the liquid drained back out. Most experts use the help of a specially designed vacuum.

4. Disinfect the Tub
The last step in the sewage cleanup process is generally to disinfect the area to keep your family safe. The technician knows which cleaner and disinfectant to use in the cleanup to fight the bacteria and germs associated with sewage problems.
A sewer backup can damage your home if left unattended. However, with the help of a water technician, the situation can quickly be remedied.

How To Take Care of a Furnace Flood

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

Safety risks in your commercial property can result from unattended water damage from a furnace flood.

How to Handle a Flood from a Furnace

You do everything right to keep your business facility in prime condition. Then a pipe breaks, flooding the basement, including the furnace. What can you do to keep further damage from occurring? Follow this simple guide to take care of a furnace flood in your Anderson Mill, TX, business.

1. Stay Safe
Always put safety first by evacuating the premises if it's unsafe. Contact a licensed emergency plumber to identify and fix the broken pipe. Then call a water remediation company to help you remove water and dry out soaked structures and appliances. They can also examine appliances to determine the level of repairs they need.

2. Shut Off Water and Power
While you wait for the cavalry to arrive, shut off water to the facility. Prevent electric shock hazards by cutting off power to flooded areas if it's safe for you to do so. Stay away from any areas contaminated with sewage, which could contain hazardous waste.

3. Get the Flooded Furnace Inspected
Schedule a licensed professional to inspect the furnace before using it after the flood. The furnace may appear fine outwardly yet still contain damaged interior components. Additionally, water trapped inside the furnace could result in mold formation. If you try to use a damaged furnace, it may lead to the following problems:

• Carbon monoxide emissions
  
• Gas leaks
  
• Fires
  
• Mold spore circulation
  
  

4. Prevent Furnace Flood Hazards
An inspection will determine how much maintenance work your furnace needs. Minor maintenance could include cleaning air ducts and changing air filters. Complete replacement of the furnace could be necessary if it sustained too much damage. Some water remediation agencies offer furnace maintenance packages that include filter replacement and air duct cleaning.
Unresolved water damage from a furnace flood can cause safety hazards in your commercial facility. Use this guide to return your business to normal operations safely.

3 Ways To Prevent Cigarette Fires in Your Home

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

Cigarette butts and ashes should be disposed of in a deep ashtray set on a sturdy surface.

Prevent Cigarette Fires in Your Home

One of the biggest causes of residential fires is cigarettes. Smokers and nonsmokers alike can be put at risk of a cigarette fire if proper precaution is not taken. Here are three ways you can prevent one of these fires from sparking in your Steiner Ranch, TX, home.

1. Smoke Outside
The easiest way to keep a cigarette fire from starting inside the home is to always smoke outdoors. Doing so not only keeps your home's contents safe from the ignited cigarette but also eliminates the buildup of smoke and its odor indoors, which often requires home odor removal professionals to strip the home of its stench.

2. Be Mindful of What Could Cause an Ashtray Fire
Ashtray fires are always a possibility if you smoke inside your home. Cigarette butts and ashes should be disposed of in a deep ashtray set on a sturdy surface. Keep ashtrays off of beds or couches, as they can catch on fire easily if the tray were to tip over with burning material in it. When it comes time to empty your ashtray, practice proper smoking and fire cleanup. Always make sure the materials are cooled, then wet with water before throwing the butts and ash in the trash.

3. Use ”Fire-safe” Cigarettes
Cigarettes that have been produced with two to three bands of less porous paper have been dubbed "fire-safe," as the bands act to slow down and then extinguish the burning of a cigarette. This option provides a better sense of safety if a lit cigarette were left unattended, though it should always be put out and placed in a proper receptacle to fully prevent a cigarette fire.

While cigarette fires are common, they are also easily preventable. Smoking outside, using a sturdy ashtray and knowing how to safely discard its contents as well as using "fire-safe" cigarettes can greatly reduce the chances of a fire starting in your home.

Storms: Prepare Your Home

7/30/2022 (Permalink)

Keep your gutters and drains clean.

Storm Preparedness

Are you worried about the damage that flood water from an Anderson Mill, TX, storm could cause to your house? There are a few actions that you can take to defend your home against these powerful weather events:

1. Install a sump pump. A battery-operated model is ideal, as it can be used during power outages. A sump pump can be a very good defense against excess water that can lead to a flooded building.

2. Get flood insurance. Did you know that your homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover floods? If you do not already have flood insurance, now is the time to consider purchasing it. If you have forgotten to renew your policy, you will want to do so before a storm hits.

3. Use check valves. Installing check valves around your house can be a relatively simple way to prevent flood water from becoming an issue. They prevent reverse water flow and are automatic, so you do not have to operate them by hand in order to prevent flooding.

4. Clean gutters and drains. Many homeowners forget to clean their drains and gutters, which can lead to water backup outside and inside your home. Complete regular inspections and clean any buildup that you find. Scheduling periodic checks can help you keep your home in the best shape to prevent floods year-round.

Remember that no matter how hard you try to protect your home, there is still always a possibility of storm-related destruction. Fortunately, water damage restoration specialists in the Anderson Mill, TX, area can usually arrive on the scene - often on a 24-hour emergency basis - and survey any damage from flood water that has occurred. They can also put together and typically initiate a cleanup plan that will give you the best chances of restoring your property and possibly even salvaging your water-logged belongings. Storms are scary, and damage from them is even scarier. Help ease your own mind by planning ahead and knowing where to turn for help if it should be needed.

Steps to Putting Out a Grease Fire

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire in Steiner Ranch, TX.

How to Extinguish a Grease Fire in Steps

A fire in your Steiner Ranch, TX, home could result in terrible consequences. Fires can start in many ways. often, they start in the kitchen, where they can quickly spread from there. A grease fire is a common culprit. But putting out this type of fire requires a different approach than other fires. If you take the wrong steps, you could end up doing more harm than good. 

1. Cover the Flames and Turn Off the Heat
Unlike other fires, you don't want to throw water on a grease fire. Your first reaction should be to cover it up. Find a metal lid or a cookie sheet and cover the pan or burner on which the fire is burning. Doing this should smother the flames successfully. Also, remove the heat source, such as turning off the burner or gas. 

2. Use a non-Water Agent to Put Out the Fire
If covering the fire doesn't work, another option is to put salt or baking soda on it. The chemical makeup of these substances can effectively extinguish the fire. However, don't use other household products such as flour or baking powder. You will not get the same result; in fact, these may only spread the fire. 

3. Use a Fire Extinguisher
If you have one handy, use a Class B dry chemical fire extinguisher to put out the fire. Make sure you know how to use this device. Only use it if other methods have been unsuccessful. 

4. Call the Authorities for Fire Extinguishing and Fire Cleanup
In some cases with grease fires, you may not be able to put it out by covering or using a fire extinguisher or baking soda. If the fire spreads beyond your control, leave the room, shut the door, if applicable, and call 911. 
Following these steps should be able to eliminate a grease fire. You can also rely on fire restoration professionals to do any cleanup or rebuilding in your home. 

Top 3 Tips To Prevent Accidental Fire Sprinkler Discharge

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

Sprinkler maintenance prevents unwanted discharges or leaks.

Fire Sprinkler Maintenance

Sprinkler maintenance can benefit your Jester Estates, TX, business in various ways, including the prevention of accidental activation. While sprinklers can extinguish or control fires, they can also destroy any furniture and equipment. Although a water remediation company can handle the situation, you can avoid the problem entirely with the following maintenance tips. 

1. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
A common cause of the accidental discharge is the presence of heat near the sprinklers. Exposure to skylights, active appliances, and cooking equipment can unintentionally trigger the system. Possible solutions include increasing the distance between the two and upgrading the sprinklers to activate at higher temperatures. Cold temperatures can expand the water inside the pipes, increase the pressure and ultimately break them. You can prevent these leaks by installing insulation, using a heat trace system, and draining the pipes yearly.  

2. Prevent Damage to Fire Sprinklers
Another part of sprinkler maintenance that can prevent an unwanted release is the protection from physical damage. Although sprinkler heads are designed to be tough and resistant to most elements, they can still be vulnerable to physical damage. They can be struck by tools, equipment or other objects. Teach your employees about the consequences of water damage so they can avoid impacting these devices. Talk to your provider about installing cages or guards that can protect the sprinklers.

3. Get Professional Installation or Repair
Due to the complexities of the sprinkler system and its components, it should be handled by experienced technicians. Whether the pieces were damaged during transportation or after a flawed installation process, the errors can cause the water to release involuntarily. Repair attempts by anyone with no experience can also result in damage. Ensure that only the fire department or trained professionals handle the system. 
Sprinkler maintenance not only keeps the heads and pipes working as intended but also prevents unwanted discharges or leaks. These devices can suppress or put out fires properly instead of damaging your commercial property further. 

How to Handle an Accidental Discharge of Fire Sprinklers

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

If your sprinklers go off accidentally, they could cause flooding.

What to Do If Fire Sprinklers Are Accidentally Discharged

Sprinkler systems can save your Twin Creeks, TX, business in the event that a fire breaks out. However, if your sprinklers go off accidentally, they could cause flooding. Here are some ways you can mitigate the impact.

1. Turn Off the Water to Your Fire Sprinklers
This first step is important as it will decrease unnecessary water damage to your business. The longer your sprinklers are running, the more the cleanup will cost.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company
Be sure to call your insurance agent so they can start a claim, send out an adjuster to assess the damage, and investigate the possible cause of the discharge. If you have any parts of the sprinklers that might have broken off, be sure to save those and show them to the claims agent. This might assist in determining why the accidental discharge happened.

3. Contact a Professional for Cleanup
A restoration company can remove the water, ensure that the building is dry, and take care of any odor or mold that might result from the excess moisture caused by the flooding. This step will get your business back up and running as quickly as possible and ensure that you have a safe environment for your employees and customers.

4. Inspect Your System Periodically
Once your sprinkler system is back up and running, be sure to perform regular maintenance checks. Keeping your system in working order will decrease the chances of another accidental discharge of your sprinklers and increase the likelihood that they will engage in the event of an actual fire. Either way, your Twin Creeks, TX, business will be protected.
No one wants their company to suffer a loss, but taking the appropriate steps when an incident, such as flooding from an accidental fire sprinkler discharge, occurs can help alleviate the cost and inconvenience.

3 Ways Lightning Can Damage Your Home

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

The risk of a home lightning fire is real.

Three Ways Lightning Can Damage Your Home

The risk of a home lightning fire is real. In the United States, this type of severe weather frequently occurs during the summer months in the late afternoon and evening. And although you cannot prevent these natural incidents, understanding how they could affect your home will help you prepare for the worst-case scenario. Here are three ways that lightning can damage houses.

1. Electrical Surge
Home electrical systems are vulnerable to bolts seeking to ground. For instance, as uncontrolled electrical currents move through your home, they may damage or destroy electronic devices plugged into an outlet, such as computers and televisions. Wild voltage may even affect wireless gadgets. So, unplug your phone or tablet if you need to connect to the internet during a storm.

2. Blast Wave
Better known as thunder, the blast wave from an electrical flash can rip through external brick walls and windows and continue inside to destroy drywall and plumbing. This opening in the home can then let rain in, further damaging your house. Moreover, blast waves are so powerful that they can carve deep furrows in your yard and rupture your home’s foundation. Sometimes this type of damage is irreparable.

3. Lightning Fire
A house fire is the scariest possible result of a strike. Wooden homes and roofs are more susceptible to fire than those made of brick or stone. But, fire can damage any modern home with electrical wires that can channel flames through the building. In addition to the risk electrical surges impose on structures, surrounding landscaping such as trees and mulch can also be set alight. Then these fires might spread to your home. If your home is damaged, hire fire restoration experts in Great Hills, TX.
A lightning fire can seriously damage your home. However, knowing how these fires behave will keep you and your family safe.

How SERVPRO's Electronic Claims Services Helps Your Insurance Company

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

Having electronic claim services enables everyone to have the same information for more efficient and effective communication.

SERVPRO's Electronic Claims Services

When your Leander, TX, client files a claim, you need a company that aids the process quickly and efficiently Here's how SERVPRO professionals are Here to Help with their electronic claim services.

Communication Is Effective
When your client needs a Professional Response Team to arrive quickly and mitigate the damage in order to restore the property, you don't want things slowed down through a lack of communication. Having electronic claim services enables everyone to have the same information for more efficient and effective communication and includes the following benefits.

All data is kept together in the insurance claim
Everyone involved has access to the same information
Data can't be lost
Nationwide comparisons are possible

Data is Kept Safe
Paper records can be stolen out of a filing cabinet by anyone sneaking into the office, but digital files are protected from hackers by security teams dedicated to keeping your clients' information confidential.

Errors Are Fewer
Every time details are entered into electronic claim services, all other parties involved get the updated information. Everyone has every detail of the case meaning there will be fewer mistakes made. Your clients will receive the correct amount of compensation based on an accurate assessment of the damage. That way their properties can be restored in the fastest and most efficient way possible.

Electronic Transmissions Provide a Faster Emergency Response
Paper records have to be sent to both the insurance agent and adjuster, typically by mail. This takes time and means a longer wait for your clients. The longer they have to wait, the more potential for further damage by mold and other problems. Your clients need a quick response, and an electronic system enables them to get their money sooner.
A client who has suffered catastrophic loss from a disaster such as flooding needs professional help to arrive quickly. An electronic service can make that happen.

4 Reasons Why Hiring Property Damage Restoration Pros Can Save Your Home

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO offers Texas homeowners four reasons to call an experienced property damage restoration company after sustaining storm damage.

Extreme weather is something that everyone deals with across the country. In Texas, citizens have to worry about hurricanes, snowstorms, tornadoes, and pretty much every natural disaster one can think of.

By hiring a proud, esteemed property damage restoration company such as SERVPRO, getting life back to normal after a natural disaster takes the extra responsibility off of your shoulders and puts it in the capable hands of trained professionals. From the first phone call until the last item is restored, SERVPRO works with diligence and precision to serve its clients.

Four Reasons Texas Property Owners Choose SERVPRO for Property Damage Restoration

1)Quick Response

Regular business hours do not apply to natural disasters. SERVPRO has recognized this and takes the same approach. Their 24/7 service is always available simply by calling (512) 318-2202.

Water cleanup without trained professionals can lead to catastrophic, irreparable damage inside a home. Within 24 hours, drywall begins to swell and break, metal begins to tarnish, furniture typically begins to crack, and dyes in household objects begin to fade and stain.

2)  Restoration Over Replacement

Through initial training, continuing education courses, and web training, the SERVPRO staff all have the skills necessary to help restore a home after a natural disaster. All SERVPRO professionals are well versed in the best practices of water damage restoration, fire restoration, mold removal, carpet cleaning, and many other restoration tactics.

Restoration tends to be more cost-effective than replacement. By training all of its employees thoroughly, SERVPRO makes sure that they can mitigate the damage as well as the cost.

3)  Resources to Tackle Any Disaster

SERVPRO proudly has one of the largest and most efficient Large Loss divisions in the nation. “No Job Too Large” is not just a slogan in this instance. Every large loss has a designated supervisor to ensure timeliness along with proper communication.

Clients represented by the Large Loss program include:

-   The hospitality industry

-   Property management teams

-   Many universities

-   Municipalities

-   The Pentagon

Moreover, SERVPRO continuously provides excellent catastrophic storm protection. During the tragic storms of Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma, and Hurricane Katrina, SERVPRO’s strategically placed, quick response teams were there for all of them to help clean up the damage. SERVPRO is ready to be deployed to tackle any disaster, 24/7, 365 days a year.

4)  Working with Insurance

Unfortunately, dealing with insurance is never an easy task. Luckily, the professionals at SERVPRO handle that for their clients. Through experience and information gathering, SERVPRO is happy to have uncomfortable conversations on behalf of their clients, often resulting in a more efficient and favorable result.

Through gathering information and having hands-on experience with clients, the professionals at SERVPRO pride themselves on taking every case as if it were their own. Regardless of the situation, they will work the service claim from the original call until the check is paid.

Let SERVPRO Be Your Trusted Contact

Rather than trying to assess water damage on your own or without a professional, allow SERVPRO to keep life running smoothly. Spanning all the way to Lago Vista, Texas, SERVPRO has teams across local communities ready to be deployed at a moment’s notice.

By neglecting something as serious as water or fire damage, you could end up costing yourself a fortune, possibly even your entire home. Through quick response and emergency restoration, SERVPRO is equipped to not only assess but also restore the damage.

When you need property damage restoration in Lago Vista, TX or surrounding areas, call SERVPRO at (512) 318-2202 or visit their office at 6500 River Place Blvd, Building 7 - Ste 250, Austin, TX 78730!

How Does Storm Damage Affect Your Home’s Roofing System?

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Lake Travis and Northwest Austin area describes three ways storm damage impacts a roofing system and four indications that repairs are needed. 

SERVPRO specializes in cleanup and restoration after a fire, storm, flood, and other incidents affect a home or commercial space. Serving the Lake Travis and Northwest Austin area, their experienced team members make repairs associated with mold, smoke, sewage, vandalism, fires, storm damage, and more. Services include odor removal, deep cleaning, mold remediation, and complete renovation.

The staff at SERVPRO must undergo intensive preparation before being assigned to a project. They must meet the highest IICRC standards, complete employee certification training, take an initial franchise course, participate in ongoing web-based workshops, and attend a selection of continuing education classes. Their 24/7 emergency services offer peace of mind to residents who may need storm damage restoration at odd times of the day or night. SERVPRO’s exceptional team restores home roofing systems with precision and care, returning them to their original glory.  

How Does Storm Damage Affect Your Homes Roofing System?

#1: Rotting

Strong winds can blow shingles off roofs, allowing water to seep into areas and cause havoc. Cracked or broken shingles are especially susceptible to high winds and are more likely to go missing. It only takes two missing roof shingles for water damage to begin. Over time rotting will occur, leading to roof leaks that require extensive water cleanup. 

#2: Flooding

While rotting will eventually lead to flooding, falling trees, hail, or heavy rain can cause water damage within just a few hours. Water can find its way into your home through holes in the roof, cracks in the foundation, or broken windows. Depending on how severe the damage is, this may call for emergency water restoration. 

#3: Mold

Storm damage restoration often includes mold removal. Anytime there is flooding in a home, mold is likely present and will only spread if it’s not properly handled. It’s best to research local mold remediation companies and hire trained professionals to treat and remove the mold before it gets out of control. 

Signs Your Home Is in Need of Storm Damage Restoration

#1: Fallen Shingles 

One of the most obvious signs of roof damage is fallen shingles. Search the yard, street, and nearby trees for them after a big storm. Also, examine the roof for areas where parts of the surface appear to be missing. 

#2: Puddles in the Attic

When water damage isn’t immediately obvious, the attic can offer some answers. If there is flooding, the attic is the first place it will appear. Check for puddles and damp spots for leaks to see if water damage restoration is necessary. 

#3: Water Dripping Down Walls

More severe water damage will cause flooding in your living spaces. After a severe storm, check for water stains on the ceiling or dripping down the walls. These may take some time to appear and may not be noticeable right away. 

#4: Broken Shingles

Heavy rain and hail can dent or break shingles, leaving the roof susceptible to water damage. Water restoration companies can examine roof shingles and determine whether any shingles need to be replaced or if storm damage restoration is required. 

SERVPRO serves over a dozen cities around Austin, Texas, including Leander, TX, River Place, and Canyon Creek. If you need storm damage restoration services, call them now at (512) 318-2202 to schedule an appointment. 

6 Steps After Commercial Fire Damage Restoration to Help Your Business Recover

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Lake Travis and Northwest Austin area recommends what steps to take to quickly get back to business after a commercial fire causes irreparable damage. 

SERVPRO specializes in commercial damage restoration and cleanup after a flood or fire, aiming to minimize disruption and get operations back on track. Their highly experienced team serves the Lake Travis and Northwest Austin area, offering 24/7 emergency assistance when needed. Services include smoke odor removal, fire damage cleanup, and restoration, as well as water damage cleanup and restoration that occurs from firefighting efforts. 

The SERVPRO team undergoes intensive water and fire damage training, which includes completing the IICRC program, a SERVPRO specific certification course, and specified continuing education classes. Staff must also participate in ongoing web-based workshops to ensure their training is up to date. As a trusted member of the community, SERVPRO has been helping restore businesses in the area since 1998.    

6 Steps After Commercial Fire Damage Restoration to Help Your Business Recover

#1: Contact the Insurance Company

Contact the insurance company as soon as possible to learn what steps need to be taken to file a claim. They will also likely recommend having emergency water restoration performed by a commercial cleaning service right away. Calling them immediately will help prevent delays and help your business recover faster. If the business space has been leased, it's important also to contact the landlord or building manager. 

#2: Protect Any Remaining Property

One of the first steps to take after the fire has been extinguished is to safeguard the property. Doing so protects the business from theft and further damage and is often required by insurance companies. This step may include patching holes, covering the roof with a tarp, and turning off the water, gas, and other utilities. A security fence may need to be installed, and you may want to consider hiring a private security team. 

#3: Document Everything

Take photos and video of the damage. Keep a log of everyone who was contacted and why. Track all business costs during this period and hold on to receipts. Find out what documentation is required by the insurance company and start getting it together. 

#4: Contact Fire Restoration Companies

Fire restoration companies will clean up and restore everything, getting business operations up and running again sooner. Water cleanup will likely be needed as well due to firefighting efforts. Fortunately, most companies that deal with fire damage can also perform water damage restoration. 

#5: Notify Anyone Affected

Update your staff, vendors, and suppliers with new contact information. Have any deliveries or mail forwarded to a different address, and inform customers of what has happened. New contact information may also need to be given to utility companies, credit card companies, the fire department, and the police. 

#6: Retrieve Any Valuables

Once the fire department has given the okay, retrieve any valuables from the building. These may include servers, external hard drives, laptops, cash, credit cards, checkbooks, business licenses, employee information, inventory records, and accounting statements.

SERVPRO serves over a dozen cities in Northwest Texas including, River Place, Canyon Creek, and Spicewood, TX. Their staff’s intensive training makes them a leader in the water and fire damage restoration industry. If you require commercial damage restoration, call them now at (512) 318-2202 and get your business up and running as soon as possible. 

Fire Damage Restoration Guide: Tips to Prevent Electrical Fires

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The experts at SERVPRO go over tips to avoid electrical fires to help property owners stay safe.

Electrical malfunctions are the fourth most common cause of structure fires in the US, accounting for around 7% of all incidents or roughly 24,000 fires per year. Texas ranks second in the US for fire-related fatalities.

Thankfully, while not all fires are preventable, there are steps home and business owners can take to prevent electrical fires. The experts at SERVPRO, a professional water cleanup and fire damage restoration company serving Lago Vista, TX, and the surrounding areas, are here to share how.

Tips to Prevent Electrical Fires in Texas

Complete Regular Wiring Inspections

Electrical wiring can wear out over time, eventually leading to an increased fire risk. Having a professional electrician inspect wiring, outlets, and breaker or fuse boxes is one of the best ways to prevent electrical fires, especially in properties over ten years old. Considering replacing wiring that appears:

•       Frayed
•       Worn out
•       Tattered

It’s also best to schedule repairs if there are any signs of wiring damage, such as blinking lights, frequently tripped breakers, sparking, or melting plastic smells.

Assess Plugs for Appliances

The plugs on appliances can also become damaged over time. Broken plugs present a shock hazard and may overheat, leading to a fire. When examining plugs, assess the number of devices plugged into each outlet.

Outlet overload via the use of extension cords or power strips can lead to sparking and appliance malfunction. Ensure that the total load of all plugged-in electronics doesn't exceed 80% of the amperage of the circuit.

Consider Surge Protectors

Power surges are another common cause of circuit overload that can lead to an electrical fire. Property owners can take steps to reduce the dangers associated with power surges by using surge protectors. These devices not only decrease the risk of an electrical fire but also protect electronics from damage.

Watch the Placement of Flammable Items

Sometimes, all an electrical fire needs to start is the presence of a flammable object—like a pillow—too close to an electrical outlet, appliance, or plugged-in device, such as a charging cell phone. Take steps to avoid a fire by keeping rugs, blankets, and even cleaning supplies away from sources of electricity.

What to Do in the Event of an Electrical Fire

First, start by putting out the fire or evacuating the building, depending on the current size of the blaze. Having an extinguisher or fire blanket in an easily accessible location is a vital step in minimizing fire damage.

Once the fire is out, file an insurance claim. Electrical fires can lead to extensive damage, including:

•       Structural damage
•       Smoke, ash, and soot damage
•       Water damage from sprinkler systems

Given this, to make repairs, you may need a fire damage restoration company that can also handle residential and commercial water damage and mold removal.

Get Help Handling Fire Damage Restoration in Texas

The steps above can help reduce the probability of an electrical fire, but some common causes of structure fires are unavoidable.

In the unfortunate event a fire does occur, fire restoration companies, as well as specialists in secondary damage, like emergency water restoration companies and mold remediation companies, can be an invaluable resource. Some contractors, like SERVPRO, can handle all the above.

The professionals at SERVPRO offer reliable fire damage restoration, water removal, mold cleanup, and residential and commercial cleaning services. Their crews have access to professional-grade equipment and are on-call around the clock. For more information, call (512) 318-2202.

4 Worst Effects of Water Damage to You and Your Home

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The professionals at SERVPRO review the most dangerous effects of water damage and discuss how to minimize the risk of further damage.

Most property owners are aware that water exposure in a structure can cause extensive damage, but many don’t realize just how much. The experts at SERVPRO, a leading water damage restoration company serving  Leander, TX, and the surrounding areas, are here to explain four of the worst effects of water damage after flooding, plumbing incidents, and storms.

SERVPRO specializes in emergency water restoration along with repairs for commercial and residential properties. Their crews work around the clock to help home and business owners minimize the effects of water damage and the risk of secondary damage.

Review the Worst Effects of Water Damage

#1: Mold Infestations

Water damage can allow excess moisture into homes and businesses. Water restoration companies will take steps to remove water quickly, but they also need to focus on drying out and dehumidifying all areas exposed to water.

Any remaining moisture can encourage the growth of mold in:

•       Carpet
•       Furniture, like couches
•       Wallpaper and drywall

Mold can spread quickly after it begins growing, often necessitating help from mold remediation companies. Mold spores can cause health effects when inhaled. SERVPRO can help with both water and mold removal.

#2: Damage to Furniture and Appliances

Water can damage more than the structure of a home or business. Rising water from a flood or pipe burst may come into contact with furniture, such as the legs of couches or chairs. Wooden furniture may warp or split when exposed to water.

Electronic devices can also suffer damage. Water can short out televisions and ruin computers or speakers. A residential and commercial cleaning service can take steps to remove water quickly, preventing it from ruining furniture and electronics.

#3: Increased Issues with Bugs

Many insect species thrive best in humid and warm environments. Water damage—even from a leaking pipe—can increase humidity levels inside homes and businesses in Texas. Higher humidity encourages fleas and mosquitoes to breed inside properties. Removing this excess moisture is the first step in stopping the infestation.

#4: Exposure to Dangerous Contaminants

Finally, some water damage events include blackwater (water that contains contaminants from human waste). This kind of water may carry bacteria and viruses, which can easily cause serious diseases.

Blackwater becomes a major concern in properties that experience a sewage backup or toilet overflow. However, black water can also enter properties during floods, as the water may get contaminated by sewage before entering the home or business.

Sometimes, properties also face exposure to dirty water after a fire when sprinkler systems kick on. That’s why it’s best to look to fire restoration companies that also have the experience to handle water damage.

Get Help Mitigating the Effects of Water Damage

Water damage events can have many severe effects on homes and businesses around Texas. Property owners can take steps to return their property to pristine condition by contacting SERVPRO for water damage restoration services.

SERVPRO technicians are on call 24/7, allowing them to move quickly in the event of a water damage emergency. As a locally owned and operated company, SERVPRO always put their clients first, focusing on removing water, eradicating moisture, and inspecting for any signs of mold growth. Set up an appointment for water damage cleanup by calling (512) 318-2202.

4 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Commercial Damage Restoration Contractor

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The team at SERVPRO goes over factors to consider before hiring a commercial damage restoration contractor in Spicewood, TX.

When it comes to commercial property damage, the damage itself isn’t the only cost. The longer a business remains closed, the more potential revenue that’s lost. That’s why it’s vital to find a commercial damage restoration company that can get the job done fast and get it done right the first time.

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin, a leading property damage restoration company, cautions business owners to keep a few points in mind when choosing a contractor. SERVPRO offers commercial water, storm, and fire restoration, mold remediation, and cleaning services in and around Spicewood, TX.

Factors to Look at When Hiring Commercial Restoration Contractors

#1: Previous Customer Satisfaction

Deciding on the right company to handle commercial damage restoration represents an important decision for any business. The company may have to take care of water cleanup, property repairs, and mold removal.

Property owners in Spicewood often have many water restoration companies to choose from for help. Customer reviews are a good place to start when creating a shortlist. Consider factors such as whether:

•       Past customers were satisfied with the water damage restoration
•       The contractor offered reliable estimates
•       The company finished the job on budget and on time

Look for a pattern of positive reviews rather than focusing on individual reviews.

#2: The Contractor’s Experience and Resources

Commercial damage restoration often requires professional-grade equipment and the resources to complete. Some water and fire restoration companies do not have the tools necessary to take on this challenge.

When considering restoration companies, look for organizations with access to the right tools to handle water extraction, fire cleanup, and mold remediation. Find out if the company under consideration offers substantial training to their property restoration technicians.

#3: The Services Offered by the Contractor

Not all forms of commercial damage have the same causes. For example, water damage caused by a fire suppression system will require different serves than one caused by natural flooding. Many types of water damage can also lead to mold growth. Mold remediation companies may specialize in getting rid of all forms of fungus—including black mold—but may not provide adequate water removal services.

Depending on the types of damage a business sustained, it may be necessary to work with contractors that have experience with fire, water, and mold damage.

#4: The Company’s Response Time

Response time is a crucial factor when it comes to emergency water restoration. Completing property restoration quickly can actually reduce the overall damage to a property and may make it easier to file a claim with the insurance company.

Scheduling commercial damage restoration right away also allows business owners to reopen again more quickly. Before making a decision, question contractors about their current workload and how fast they’d be able to begin repairs. The cost of the services offered by the contractor is also, of course, a point of interest when seeking a commercial cleaning service.

Contact the Professionals for Commercial Damage Restoration

Commercial damage restoration can help businesses recover from damage caused by fires, flooding, storms, mold infestations, and more. When considering which company to hire, focus on their past reviews, abilities, and experience with property restoration.

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin can begin commercial property repairs quickly after an emergency. Their crews take calls around the clock, allowing them to begin water removal and cleanup without delay. Every member of their team has the experience and training necessary to restore commercial properties after floods, hurricanes, or sewage backups. Call (512) 318-2202 to learn more.

7 Reasons to Choose SERVPRO for Commercial or Residential Property Damage Restoration

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Texas has no shortage of restoration companies, but some are better than others. Here are seven reasons why SERVPRO is the first choice for property damage restoration in the Austin area.

After suffering water or fire property damage, rebuilding and getting things back to normal is less strenuous with the help of an experienced property restoration expert. However, with hundreds of water and fire restoration companies in Austin claiming they offer the best services, picking the right one can be a challenge. Here’s why Texans don’t need to look beyond SERVPRO for quality emergency property damage restoration services.

7 Reasons to Choose SERVPRO for Commercial or Residential Property Damage Restoration

1. 24/7 Emergency Services

When it comes to water or fire property damage, even waiting a few extra hours to begin the restoration process can have steep consequences. For example, delaying water cleanup can lead to mold growth, and the mold removal process is both complex and costly.

SERVPRO is one of the few restoration companies in Austin that offers 24/7 emergency restoration services. Their experts are available year-round, even on holidays.

2. Quick Response Time

SERVPRO’s team isn’t just available 24/7. They also respond to emergency calls fast and have the equipment and expertise to get the job done just as quickly. Their quick response times are designed to prevent further property damage and minimize restoration costs.

3.Highly Trained Specialists

Restoration projects go smoother and take less time when the workers know what they are doing. SERVPRO’s team consists of knowledgeable technicians trained to deliver the best residential and commercial cleaning services. Their team holds some of the most respected certifications in the industry from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).

4. Five-Star Property Restoration Services

SERVPRO is a one-stop-shop for property restoration services. Their team can handle residential and commercial damage from mold, fire, water, storms, and more. Even better, they have received hundreds of stellar reviews for their top-notch services.

5. Insurance Claim Handling

Unlike many local fire and water restoration companies, SERVPRO has experience working with insurance companies to simplify the claims process. Their experts understand the documentation process and how to maximize the chances of a successful claim.

6. Locally Owned and Operated

As a locally owned and operated company, SERVPRO has the experience and knowledge unique to restoring Texan properties. For instance, their expert’s understanding of the local terrain enables them to identify the root cause of water damage and recommend solutions that prevent the issue from recurring. Likewise, if a property damage restoration project requires a permit, SERVPRO can fast-track that process.

7. Fully Licensed, Certified, and Insured

It’s always best to work with a licensed fire, water, or mold remediation company. A license proves that a company has the training needed to provide customers with safe and reliable services. SERVPRO is fully licensed, insured, and stays up to date and compliant with the latest industry and best practices.

About SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is a local leader in the restoration industry. They offer five-star water, fire, and storm restoration services as well as mold remediation and commercial cleaning.

To learn more about their property damage restoration services in Lago Vista, TX, follow them on Facebook, call (512) 318-2202, or visit their office at 6500 River Place Blvd, Building 7 - Ste 250, Austin, TX 78730

What to Do Before, During, and After a Flood: Commercial Damage Restoration Tips

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The friendly experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin offer simple tips for business owners to minimize or prevent water damage through steps taken before, during, and after flooding.

Bad weather and plumbing problems are the most common causes of commercial water damage. However, regardless of the cause, there are ways to keep the property damage to a minimum and restore a property fast. The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin, a leading local commercial damage restoration company, recommend business owners take the following steps before, during, and after flooding:

Commercial Damage Restoration Tips: Before, During, and After Flooding

Before a Flood

For businesses located in flood-prone areas, preemptive measures are the best way to minimize damage. Consider steps such as:

•     Installing a Sump Pump: A sump pump is a device installed in the lowest part of a building. If a flood occurs, the device will activate and pump water out, reducing the risk of more extensive water damage. Sump pumps should also be tested about once per year.
•     Getting Flood Insurance: Most commercial property insurers don’t cover commercial water damage without a special rider. While this rider often comes at a high cost, it’s well worth the expense for commercial properties in high-risk areas. The National Flood Insurance Program can also be an excellent resource.
•     Identifying Local Water Restoration Companies: Find nearby water damage restoration contractors that offer 24/7 emergency services. That way, should a flood occur, no time is wasted finding the right emergency commercial damage restoration company for the job.

During a Flood

During a flood, use these tips to keep water damage and danger to a minimum:

•     Shut Off the Water Supply: If the flood is due to a burst pipe or other plumbing issues, turn off the main water supply to stop more water from entering your building. Likewise, call a plumber to repair the burst pipe.
•     Evacuate the Building: If the flood is due to heavy rains, try to evacuate the building before the water rises. Alternatively, move everyone to a higher floor and out of the floodwater.
•     Turn Off the Power: Wires, sockets, and appliances exposed to floodwater can lead to electrocution and fires. Avoid such outcomes by turning off the power.

After a Flood

After a flood, it’s vital to call a reputable commercial restoration company as soon as possible. Delaying water cleanup can lead to mold growth. After that, make sure to notify any employees of the damage/closure to minimize foot traffic in the building and ensure the restoration team has plenty of room to work.

While waiting for the restoration team to arrive, don’t forget to take pictures of any damage. These photographs will serve as evidence for the insurance claim process. In cases, providing proof of the cause of the water damage and when it occurred can be crucial to a successful claim. An experienced water damage restoration company can also help handle documentation.

About SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is a top provider of water, storm, and fire restoration services as well as mold removal and commercial cleaning.

To learn more about their services in Leander, TX, or the commercial damage restoration process, follow them on Facebook, call (512) 318-2202, or visit their office in person at 6500 River Place Blvd, Building 7 - Ste 250, Austin, TX 78730

Four Important Things to Do While Waiting for a Storm Damage Restoration Contractor

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The professionals at SERVPRO go over the most important steps to take while waiting for a storm damage restoration to arrive.

With climate change making the weather increasingly unpredictable, it pays to know what to do if a storm is on the way and how to stay safe and minimize property damage after the storm hits. The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin, a leading storm damage restoration company, recommend homeowners take four simple steps before their cleanup crew arrives.

Four Important Things to Do While Waiting for a Storm Damage Restoration Contractor

1. Safety First

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), residents can stay safe after a storm by:

•     Staying Out of Floodwater: Floodwater can carry various harmful germs and chemicals. If these contaminants enter the bloodstream, it could lead to serious illness, which is the last thing anyone needs while recovering from property damage caused by a storm.
•     Avoiding Wet Electrical Appliances: If the storm has led to indoor flooding, turn off the power at the main breaker. Water touching live electrical appliances or connections may lead to electrocution or fires. Likewise, when outside, stay away from fallen power cables and poles.
•   Reducing the Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: If using a generator for power during a storm, ensure that the unit’s exhaust system is facing outdoors. Carbon monoxide from exhaust fumes can cause sudden illness and even death in an enclosed space. Additionally, only use charcoal grills, camp stoves, and similar carbon monoxide-producing equipment in well-ventilated spaces.

Calling an emergency water restoration team like SERVPRO will ensure that the water cleanup and restoration process gets started as soon as possible after a storm. Quickly getting rid of indoor flood water will reduce the risk of long-term water damage and flood-related injuries.

2. Check the Sump Pump

If there is a sump pump in the building, verify that it’s working and removing floodwater. The sooner any water is removed from the property, the lower the chance of secondary damage, such as mold. Many mold remediation companies report growth can start in as little as 24 hours.

3. Photograph the Damage

While waiting for the storm and water damage restoration company to arrive, take pictures of any damage. These pictures will serve as evidence during the insurance claim process and are often crucial to prove the cause of the water damage.

Beyond photographs, it’s also best to keep other forms of evidence, such as receipts for hotel costs and water and mold removal services. If you choose SERVPRO for your residential or commercial water damage restoration, they can handle the claim process.

4. Avoid Additional Property Damage

If it looks like the storm may resume, boarding up broken windows can help prevent additional damage. This step will also minimize heat loss and secures the property during the restoration process. Residential or commercial cleaning services generally take at least 24-hours.

About SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is among the top fire, water, and storm restoration companies in Spicewood, TX. They are a fully licensed, full-service contractor offering 24-hour emergency storm restoration services with fast response times.

From mold remediation to biohazards, SERVPRO can handle all manner of residential and commercial cleanup projects. Follow them on Facebook, or call the office at (512) 318-2202,  located in Austin, TX 78730 to learn more.

Recognize the signs of hidden water damage

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO blog shares the common signs of hidden water damage to help homeowners recognize them and take timely action.

Recognize the signs of hidden water damage

Visible water damage enables immediate action and restoration. But a hidden water leak in a basement, slow leaks in roofs, and a dripping faucet slowly damage a property. This hidden water damage is a huge concern as homeowners fail to realize there is a problem until the damage is extensive. SERVPRO shares how homeowners and business owners can identify the signs of hidden water damage. This knowledge can help prevent massive damages and restoration costs. 

1. Mold Growth

Mold grows swiftly when there is water damage in a building for over 48 hours. Mold spores often grow in the seams of ceilings and floors, hidden from view. Before taking on any DIY mold remediation project, it is strongly advised to consult a Texas-licensed Mold Remediation Contractor. Reviewing the Texas Mold Assessment and Remediation Rules (TMARR) is highly useful when looking for a mold remediation company, and understanding what the process entails.

Any green, black, white, or brown spots must be taken seriously. These are signs of mold growth that should be addressed by a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO before it leads to any health effects. Not only will a professional team have the equipment to detect and remove mold hidden in crooks and crevices, but it will also ensure that there are no recurrences of mold growth by addressing the root cause.  

2. Musty Odors

If property owners can detect a musty odor, it is a certain sign of hidden water damage. Musty smells are a result of moisture, lack of air circulation, and darkness. This odor can exist even in the absence of visible mold growth. Masking an unpleasant odor in a home is not the solution. It is important to identify the source of the smell and ensure that the hidden moisture is removed at the earliest to prevent any further water damage.

3. Peeling Paint and Wallpaper

Peeling paint and wallpaper should be a red flag for homeowners. It is a sign of moisture that is hiding within walls and causing the paint and wallpaper to lose their adhesion to drywall and sheetrock. This flaking on walls and bubbling up of wallpaper is not just aesthetically unappealing, it is a warning of impending water damage that can worsen if not addressed.  

4. Stains and Discoloration

Water-stained ceilings and drywall are a sign of water damage that should not be neglected. Stains and discoloration may be caused by a leaky roof or leaking pipes behind drywall. Painting over these stains is a recipe for bigger water disasters later. The source of this moisture should be addressed at the earliest.

5. Warped Floors, Walls, and Ceilings

Water permeates easily in wood, drywall, and other hard yet porous surfaces. Once saturated with moisture, these materials begin to buckle and warp, severely compromising their structural integrity. This is extremely dangerous and homeowners must keep an eye out for any warping or creaking in their walls or floors. This is another hidden sign of water damage that can cost not only money but lives.  

6. Sudden Jump in Utility Bills

As the weather turns cold, a few jumps in utility bills is normal. Any other unusual increases in water bills suggest possible hidden leaks. Homeowners are advised to monitor their monthly water bills closely to find trends in usage so they can identify any anomalies in the bills. These anomalies are indicative of a potential water damage problem.  

7. Water Damage Under the Sink

Homeowners don’t always inspect their plumbing fixtures for any issues. This may become a reason why some water damage remains hidden. Although a little moisture under a kitchen or bathroom sink isn’t necessarily a cause of concern, a continuous drip or leak is a sign that immediate action is needed. 

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lake Travis / NW Austin, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For water damage restoration services in Leander and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin today at (512) 318-2202.

How to mitigate the flood risk in a high rise?

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: This SERVPRO blog recommends some measures that high rises can take to mitigate flood risks.

Flood prevention tips for high rises

Flooding not only impacts single-story homes but also high-rises - not just at the ground level but also on higher floors. SERVPRO, a commercial water damage restoration service, discusses how high rises can mitigate the flood risks.

1. Understand the flood risk

1. Location: A high-rise near a water body or in a flood zone is naturally at an elevated risk but there are other factors to consider. For instance, high-rises built in valleys or low-lying areas may be vulnerable to flooding, even though they are far from water.
2. Construction: Buildings with basements or multiple underground levels may be at an increased flooding risk. High-rises with basements should be checked for sump pumps and generators. This inspection can reveal the absence or inadequacy of this equipment and, thereby, highlight the risks to the building in a flood scenario. 
3. Property management: A professional property management company can help identify the weak spots and vulnerabilities of a building. With decades of experience and knowledge of the area, these teams can create a foundation for a flood preparedness plan. 

2. Protect critical systems

1. The mechanical and electrical systems should be insulated and protected to ensure they are functional in case of flooding.  
2. The building’s water pump should also be taken care of in case of water shortage. In most cities, the municipal system doesn’t push water beyond the sixth floor in case of floods. That means no water will be available while the occupants are stranded during floods. A water pump would be a blessing. 
3. The fire pump, which operates the sprinkler system, must be shielded from potential flood damage.
4. Ensure emergency staircase and corridor lighting will function even during a power outage. 
5. In taller buildings, at least one elevator must work during an emergency.
6. Essential backup systems must be maintained and should be functional during emergencies. 
7. Plan the storage of materials in the basement carefully. Any materials such as fuel or heating oils must be removed lest they become environmental hazards for the residents during the flooding. 

3. Communicate the emergency plan 

Document a detailed emergency plan encompassing a wide variety of disasters, including fire, medical emergencies, and floods. This plan must include:

1. Emergency contacts
2. Evacuation maps and directions
3. Insurance claim tips
4. Items for personal disaster preparedness kits 
5. Provisions to protect vulnerable residents, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, and children. 

These plans are futile without appropriate communication. There are several methods to ensure clear communication such as FirstService Residential’s proprietary system, Resident Alert, sending critical updates via email, text message, or phone during times of crisis.

4. Review the insurance

It is best practice to review the insurance policy with an insurance agent specializing in high-rise properties annually. This yearly review ensures that the property has the best coverage available at the best price. By implementing policies that mitigate the property’s flood risk, the insurance premiums can also be reduced.

In case of flooding and water damage, high rises must contact commercial water damage restoration companies such as SERVPRO to help restore the property to its original glory, and help residents get back to their lives as soon as possible.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lago Vista and surrounding areas can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire IICRC-industry certification.

For commercial water damage restoration, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin today at (512) 318-2200.

Flash flooding and its impact

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO blog educates homeowners about flash flooding and its impact. 

All about flash flooding 

Flash flooding can wreak havoc on unsuspecting residents in a matter of hours. But a basic understanding of flash flooding can help homeowners prepare better for the eventuality. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin, a storm damage restoration service, discusses flash flooding and its impact in detail below.

What is Flash Flooding?

Flash floods can be caused by heavy rainfall during thunderstorms or breaks in dams or levees and/or mudslides. It is defined as a flood that occurs within 6 hours of heavy rainfall or other reasons, but it can occur in as little as a few minutes as well. It is usually quite dangerous as it combines a flood’s normal potential with unpredictability and a wildly rapid timeframe. 

What causes flash flooding?

Here are a few factors that determine the swiftness and location of flash flooding:

1. Intensity of rainfall
2. Location and distribution of rainfall
3. Land use and topography
4. Vegetation type and growth/density
5. Soil type
6. Soil water content

Despite these factors, urban areas are more susceptible to flash flooding than others due to the presence of buildings and concrete. The capacity of the soil to absorb water in these areas is much lower than in other areas. 

Regions near rivers or large streams are also at an increased risk. If the flow of water drastically changes from upstream, it can cause the river or body of water to expand to dry land, resulting in a flash flood. Ravines and mountains face similar scenarios. 

The FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) flood map helps determine an area’s risk for flooding. Flood insurance is determined by the location of the property in a flood-risk zone. A flood insurance policy from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) marks the difference between recovery and a devastating financial loss.

The Impact of flash flooding

1. Death or Injury

The unpredictable nature of flash floods makes them very dangerous. Due to the lack of warning, many people get injured or killed by these floods. Often these flash floods occur at night while people are sleeping. According to the National Weather Service, flash floods are the biggest cause of weather-related deaths in the US.    

1. Instant Property Damage

With the combination of the force of water and the large debris that flash floods carry, the amount of structural damage can be immense. The damage caused to homes can make them uninhabitable and disrupt lives.

1. Irreversible Property Damage

Rooms, vehicles, and other contents that came in the path of floodwaters may not be salvageable. Homes become susceptible to harmful molds. Submerged vehicles bear irreparable water damage to the engine and other critical components.

1. Loss of Infrastructure

Structural damage to bridges and roadways makes travel impossible. Power, telephone, and cable lines may be damaged by flash floods. The contaminated floodwaters pollute groundwater and make tap water unfit for consumption.

1. Sediment & Silt

Floodwaters carry sand, silt, and other debris with them as they travel. When the velocity of the flash flood slows, it begins depositing this debris that can make travel difficult. Removing this debris is another huge expense.  

1. Uninsured or Under-insured Homeowners

Since the usual homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover flood damage, many homeowners experience huge financial losses. Homeowners must figure out if their property lies in a flood-risk zone and must get flood insurance through the NFIP.

1. Business Loss

Flash floods usually wreak havoc on homes and businesses alike. The extent of the damage may delay the recovery process and therefore cause further losses to business owners. 

Just one inch of floodwater can cost $25,000 in damages. Poor drainage systems, neighborhood construction, and broken water mains can also cause flooding or exacerbate the flash flood caused by rainfalls. Flash floods cannot be controlled or stopped, but homeowners can educate themselves, and be prepared in case of this natural calamity. 

When the storm is over, SERVPRO’s storm damage restoration team can help restore and rebuild properties, and help homeowners return to their lives as swiftly and smoothly as possible.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lake Travis/NW Austin, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For storm damage restoration services in Spicewood and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin today at (512) 318-2202.

Follow the Tips to Clean a Flooded Basement or Call SERVPRO to Take Care of It

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO article talks about the several steps needed to clean a basement that has been flooded. It also mentions why SERVPRO is one of the best options for helping restore a water-damaged basement.

Tips to clean a flooded basement

A flooded basement can occur during dry or wet weather. Understanding and anticipating the causes of flooded basements helps to create a plan of action for the water removal. SERVPRO, a water damage restoration company, shares below the common causes of flooded basements and steps homeowners can take to clean. 

1. Improper sealing on the flooring and walls

2. Drainage tile failure

3. Improperly installed downspouts

4. Debris in the gutters (eavestroughs)

5. Water supply line failure (broken, cracked, or clogged pipes)

6. Hot water tank failure

7. Sump pump failure

Water removal steps for a flooded basement

1. Identify the water source

If there is a leak from a source within the basement, the first step is to shut off the water right away. However, when the basement is flooded due to rain storms or melting snow, the plan of action changes.

SERVPRO’s team can reach an emergency within 24 hours, assess the situation quickly, and begin the process of restoration at the earliest. The complete process from assessment and cleaning to insurance claims can be taken care of by SERVPRO experts.

2. Water removal

Limiting the damage due to flooding is a priority. A sump pump is the best way to remove water from the basement. A wet-dry vacuum or a bucket are other alternative options to remove the water. The water must be dumped outside and away from the house foundation to prevent a backup. 

A professional company like SERVPRO can remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from the property, using powerful pumps and truck-mounted vacuum units. This swift and accurate work protects the property from secondary damage.

3. Dispose off the damaged items

Removing items damaged by floodwater is crucial to avoid mold growth, warping, and rot. Items such as carpets and furniture that absorb water easily can usually be salvaged if they are removed from the water before 24 hours. However, irrespective of the swift response, some items may be beyond saving. Carpeting, carpet padding, insulation, electronics, and paper goods are some of the most easily damaged items. Walls and furniture can also be severely impacted by delayed water removal. It is ideal to use heavy-duty plastic bags to throw things away and avoid overloading the bags. 

4. Dry and dehumidify

Once the water and damaged items are removed, the basement must be dried out. High-volume fans and structural drying dehumidifiers can be used for this purpose. House fans also work but they take much longer to dry, leading to secondary damage such as mold. The baseboards, if any, can be removed and 1-inch holes can be drilled halfway between the wall studs at the base of the walls. This enables moisture to evaporate from behind the walls.

A professional restoration company like SERVPRO uses the latest dehumidification equipment to monitor the drying progress using moisture meters until the materials return to acceptable drying goals.

5. Disinfect and Deodorize

Once the basement and its contents are dried, disinfect and deodorize everything. Using bleach is not advised as it can only kill live mold and not mold spores. Household detergent is preferable. It is, however, advised to hire a professional mold remediation company such as SERVPRO to ensure complete removal of mold and prevent its recurrence. To remove odors, sprinkle baking soda around and vacuum it once it has absorbed the odor after a few hours. 

SERVPRO uses adequate cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize contents. It also uses industrial-grade air scrubbers and fogging equipment to ensure odors are completely removed.

6. Rebuild and Restore

The last step is to rebuild the basement. Make any necessary repairs, such as filling foundation cracks, replacing damaged drywall with a mold-resistant type, and sealing windows and vents. In some cases, painting may be needed. Severe damage may entail purchasing new carpeting or constructing a new drywall.

This is a tedious and complex task, and SERVPRO not only makes minor repairs but also offers a reconstruction of rooms and areas in a home.

A DIY cleaning of the basement is possible in cases of minor flood damage but when the damage is severe, homeowners must opt for a water damage restoration company such as SERVPRO. Why? SERVPRO not only has the expertise and the technology to restore the basement but also enables a smooth insurance claims process.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lago Vista and surrounding areas can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire IICRC-industry certification.

For water damage restoration, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin today at (512) 318-2202.

SERVPRO: How to Protect Against Lightning Strikes?

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The article by SERVPRO states facts about lightning and suggests several lightning safety tips.

Lightning facts and safety tips

Lightning kills as many as 2,000 people worldwide, every year. Hundreds of people get struck but survive, usually with lingering and debilitating symptoms. Although the odds of being struck by lightning in a year are less than 1 in a million, some factors can put individuals at greater risk. Lightning usually strikes people who work outside or engage in outdoor recreational activities. SERVPRO, a storm damage restoration company, shares important facts about lightning and some safety tips.

Facts about lightning

1. All thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous. 
2. Lightning often strikes outside the area of heavy rain, as far as 10 miles beyond. 
3. Many lightning deaths occur before and after the storms. 
4. If one can hear thunder, lightning is an imminent threat.
5. Lightning leaves many victims with permanent disabilities. Only about 10% of lightning victims die whereas many survivors struggle with intense pain, neurological disabilities, depression, and other health effects. 

Lightning safety precautions outdoors

When outside, the following precautions must be taken to protect from lightning: 

1. Listen to the forecast: Avoid stepping out in the first place. If there is a prediction of a thunderstorm or lightning, postpone the trip or outdoor activity. Stay home.
2. Thunder means danger: If thunder can be heard, it is close by. Find a safe, enclosed shelter such as homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up.
3. Follow the 30-30 rule: Once lightning is sighted, count till 30. If it thunders before the count of 30, go indoors. After the last clap of thunder, suspend all activities and stay indoors for at least 30 minutes.
4. No tents: Most modern tents have carbon fiber or metal poles. They can become a grounding path for a cloud-to-ground lightning strike. 
5. In case of no shelter: Crouching can reduce the chances of being struck but does not eliminate all danger. Here are few steps to take when there is no safe shelter nearby: 

• Climb down: Immediately get off elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges, or peaks. Never take shelter under a cliff or rocky overhang. Find a low-lying place such as a ravine or a valley, but beware of flash floods.
• Baseball catcher’s position: Crouch down in a baseball catcher’s position, with heels on the ground, ears covered, and head between the knees. Ensure minimal contact with the ground. Never lie flat on the ground. 
• Thick forest: Never shelter under an isolated tree. Find a low area under a thick growth of small trees.
• Steer clear of water: Immediately move away from ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water.
• Stay away from conductors: Objects that conduct electricity (such as barbed wire fences, power lines, or windmills) must be avoided.
• No concrete: Stay away from concrete floors or walls as lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.

Lightning safety precautions indoors

Being indoors is safer than being outdoors during a thunderstorm. But statistically, about one-third of lightning-strike injuries occur indoors. Follow the tips below to keep safe from lightning while indoors:

1. Avoid water: Do not bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm. Water, as well as plumbing pipes, are good conductors of electricity.
2. No electronic equipment: Lightning can strike through electrical systems, radio, and television reception systems. Don’t plug or unplug electrical equipment during the storms.
3. Don’t use corded phones: Avoid using corded phones during a thunderstorm. Instead, opt for cordless or cellular phones.
4. Avoid concrete floors and walls: Lightning can travel through metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring. Therefore, do not lie on concrete floors during a thunderstorm. 

Follow these precautions to avoid being struck by lightning. If a person is struck by lightning, call 911 and get medical help right away. For storm damage restoration services, call a professional team such as SERVPRO right away.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lake Travis / NW Austin, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For storm damage restoration services in Leander and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin today at (512) 318-2202.

SERVPRO: All About Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and Ways to Prevent It

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO article gives insight into carbon monoxide poisoning and the preventive measures homeowners can take to prevent it.

Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning 

As per statistics, at least 430 people die in the US every year due to accidental carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Approximately 50,000 people in the US land up in the emergency department every year due to accidental CO poisoning. SERVPRO explains below what is carbon monoxide poisoning, its impact on health, its causes, and the ways to prevent it.

What is carbon monoxide (CO)?

CO is an odorless, tasteless, and colorless gas that can cause severe health problems and even death. This deadly gas builds up in enclosed or partially closed spaces by burning fuel (gas, wood, propane, etc.) in various appliances and machines. These appliances include stoves, fireplaces, gas ranges, lawnmowers, electric generators, cars, and more.

How does CO affect health?

Human senses are generally unable to detect the presence of CO. Red blood cells pick up CO quicker than they pick up oxygen. Once the air is saturated with CO, the body starts replacing oxygen in blood with CO, resulting in damage to tissues and eventual death.

CO poisoning is a risk for all human beings and animals, but unborn babies, infants, and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or respiratory problems are at maximum risk.

Symptoms of CO poisoning

Unless suspected, CO poisoning can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms mimic other illnesses. Two factors determine the severity of carbon monoxide poisoning - concentration of carbon monoxide and the duration of exposure. 

Low to moderate CO poisoning symptoms:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea and dizziness

High levels of CO inhalation can cause:

• Mental confusion
• Vomiting
• Loss of muscular coordination
• Loss of consciousness
• Death

If CO poisoning is suspected, everyone must immediately move outside for fresh air and call 911.  

What are the usual suspects for CO poisoning? 

This toxic gas can originate from the most innocent and ordinary of sources.

Generally, any home appliance or piece of equipment that burns wood, propane, natural gas, oil, charcoal, or coal is potentially a source of carbon monoxide in the house. Some of these appliances and pieces of equipment are:

• Boilers
• Furnaces
• Fireplaces
• Water heaters
• Ovens and ranges
• Space heaters
• Wood-burning stoves
• Backup generators
• Propane and charcoal grills
• Cars and other automobiles
• Gas-powered lawn mowers

Preventive tips

1. Get a CO detector: Install a CO detector and check and/or change the batteries in the CO detector every six months. Purchase a battery-powered or battery backup CO detector.
2. Regular inspection: Get a certified professional to inspect and/or service the heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal-burning appliances.
3. Keep outdoor appliances out: Never use gas ranges or ovens to heat the house. Do not use gas camp stoves, hibachis, lanterns, or charcoal grills indoors.
4. Avoid flameless heaters: Don’t use portable flameless chemical heaters (catalytic) indoors. They burn gas and can cause CO to build up.
5. Check for seals: While purchasing gas equipment, look for the seal of a national testing agency like Underwriter’s Laboratories.
6. Vent properly: Gas appliances must be vented properly.
• Indoor vent pipes should go up slightly as they go toward the outdoors.
• Never patch a vent pipe with tape, gum, or anything else.
• Keep the vents for the stove, fireplace, dryer, and furnace clear of debris and other blockages.
7. Clean the chimney: Check the chimney for soot, debris, and corrosion at least once a year. Hire a chimney sweep to clean.
8. Open the flue: When the fireplace is in use, open the flue. Put out the fire completely before closing the fireplace or damper.
9. Inspect car exhaust: Never idle a vehicle inside a garage that’s attached to the house or living space. Get a mechanic to inspect the vehicle’s exhaust system once a year to prevent CO build-up.
10. Maintain distance: Run a motor vehicle, generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine at least 20 feet away from an open window, door, or vent where exhaust can’t vent into an enclosed area.

These preventive tips must be followed carefully to protect lives and homes. Homeowners can reach out to a professional team like SERVPRO that is experienced in fire damage restoration as well as soot and smoke removal.  

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lake Travis/NW Austin, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire damage restoration services in Spicewood and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin today at (512) 318-2202.

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin: Understanding the Categories And Classes of Water Damage

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin Article is a Discussion about the 3 Categories and 4 Classes of Water Damage that Homeowners May Experience.

The categories and classes of water damage explained

Water damage can disrupt life and lead to massive losses if not addressed properly and on time. Some kinds of water damage are less severe than others and need a different treatment. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin talks about the various categories and classes of water damage that homeowners must be aware of. This categorization and classification help in determining the severity of water damage and the extent of restoration required.

3 categories of water damage

• Clean water

The safest of all water damages, clean water is category one. This type of damage usually comes from a sanitary source - an overflowing sink or a broken water line. It is the easiest to fix but can easily escalate into a category 2 or 3 situation if left unaddressed for too long or comes in contact with contaminated sources.  

• Gray water

Clean water that has been left stagnant or dormant for over 24 hours becomes category 2 - gray water. This water damage, more serious than clean water, could occur due to a toilet, dishwasher, or washing machine overflowing. This water usually contains unsafe levels of microorganisms and/or a hospitable environment for the growth of microorganisms. If left unchecked, this category can quickly escalate into Category 3.

• Black water

The most serious category of water damage, black water, often occurs due to sewage water or natural disasters such as hurricanes and heavy flooding. Occupants must stay away from black water as it can contain anything from chemicals and pesticides to bacterial diseases that can cause serious harm to health if ingested. Some symptoms that can occur from being exposed to black water are nausea, memory loss, vomiting, and liver failure.  

This contamination spreads quickly due to the cellulose in walls and flooring that serve as a food source for pathogens and fungus. The high humidity, warm temperature, and stagnant air offer an ideal environment for bacteria and mold growth.

It is imperative that homeowners do not attempt to remove black water themselves as it could prove dangerous. Professional water damage restoration teams, such as SERVPRO have the know-how and the equipment to deal with such situations.

4 Classes of Water Damage

Water damage is categorized into four classes as per the severity. The volume of the affected area, along with the type of material affected, helps determine the class. The class determines the drying out time and the type of equipment that is needed for drying and restoration.

Class 1

This is the least severe, and easiest to deal with. Here are the factors that help identify class 1 damage:

1. It has a slow absorption rate. 
2. A small portion of the room or area is affected.
3. There is little to no wet carpet to restore. 
4. Moisture has only affected materials with low permeability like plywood or concrete. 

Class 2

This class is slightly more damaging than class 1. It is characterized by the following:

1. It has a high absorption rate.
2. The entire room or area is affected.
3. The carpeting and/ or cushioning is moisture-laden.
4. Wetness has wicked at least 12 inches up the walls.
5. There is moisture in structural materials that can pose a big threat to the safety of the building structure.

Class 3

This water damage entails the following results:

1. Fastest absorption rate.
2. Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, and sub-floors become saturated with moisture. 
3. The liquid may have come from overhead, and/or it has wicked up the walls over 24 inches.

Class 4

This water damage means:

1. It is a specialty drying situation.
2. Water has permeated into hardwood, plaster, and concrete that have deep pockets of saturation. 
3. Drying these wet materials is very tricky and time-consuming.  
4. The restoration may require more specialized methods.

Most of these classes and categories of water damage require professional water damage restoration services and cannot be and must not be addressed by a DIY approach. Homeowners can contact SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin for these water damage situations.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lago Vista and surrounding areas can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire IICRC-industry certification.

For water damage restoration, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin today at (512) 318-2200.

SERVPRO: 6 fire safety tips commercial kitchens can follow

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO article talks of 6 fire safety tips that can help commercial kitchens prevent fires.

6 fire safety tips for commercial kitchen

Statistically maximum fires start in kitchens every year. Therefore it is crucial to understand and implement best practices for fire safety in kitchens, primarily in three areas: preventative maintenance, good housekeeping, and employee training. According to SERVPRO, following these tips can significantly reduce the risk of fire damage in kitchens.

• Maintenance of kitchen appliances and exhaust systems

1. Regular inspection and maintenance

Look out for fire hazards as mentioned below to prevent electrical fires

• Frayed cords or wiring that can spark and cause an electrical fire.
• Cracked or broken switch plates on outlets.
• Cords running behind appliances, which should be checked and moved to a more visible location. 

1. Professional repairing 

It is advisable to get commercial kitchen appliances maintained and repaired by professionals due to the complexity of modern equipment.

1. Deep fat fryers and open flame cooking

• The fryers should be kept at least 16 inches away from any source of an open flame. Alternatively, a vertical divider that extends at least 8 inches above the top of the fryer can be installed. These measures prevent the hot oils in the fryer from splashing onto an open flame and igniting. 
• All deep fat fryers should also be equipped with a high-temperature limiting device.

1. Inspect and clean exhaust system 

Required by fire safety codes, exhaust systems require different inspections and cleaning schedules depending upon the type of cooking operations.

• Maintenance of kitchen fire suppression systems and equipment

Complying with fire safety regulations regarding the inspection, testing, and maintenance of the kitchen fire suppression system, including fire alarms and emergency lighting, is crucial for a prevention plan.

1. Portable fire extinguishers as a backup

While Class K fire extinguishers are necessary for commercial kitchens for fires involving grease, fats, and oils that burn at high temperatures, it’s also advised to keep Class ABC extinguishers on hand for other types of fires (paper, wood, plastic, electrical, etc.). All fire extinguishers should be checked monthly and inspected and recertified annually.

1. Test kitchen fire suppression system

Kitchen suppression systems, generally very effective, can fail due to a lack of maintenance. 

1. Regularly test fire alarms

Fire alarms are the first line of defense against fire as they alert occupants instantly, enabling quick escape. They must be inspected regularly to ensure efficiency.

1. Test emergency and exit lighting

Electrical power may be lost during a fire emergency. Properly functioning emergency lighting will ensure the occupants can find their way to safety if the power goes out during an emergency. Regular inspection and annual testing of all emergency and exit lighting systems must be done.

• Good housekeeping

According to the data from NFPA, National Fire Protection Association, 22 percent of the commercial kitchen fires each year were a result of a failure to clean.

1. Clean the kitchen regularly

Built-up grease can be ignited with a single spark and is a fire hazard that can be prevented with good housekeeping. Grease traps as well as grease on walls, work surfaces, ranges, fryers, broilers, grills, and convection ovens, and all vents and filters must be cleaned regularly.

1. Remove trash and shipping materials

Trash and shipping materials are flammable items that must be kept in a dumpster far from the restaurant.

• Prioritize fire safety and prevention training

Trained staff can control a fire situation and lead everyone to safety. Regular training can provide a strong first line of defense against fire emergencies.

1. Staff must have proper training in equipment handling and cooking techniques, especially ones involving open flames.
2. It is advised to follow the manufacturer’s instructions while using equipment and appliances.
3. The swift extinguishing of grease fires on cooktops and grills must be taught to employees.
4. Every employee should know how to properly use fire extinguishers. 
5. Workers should be trained in how to shut off the gas and/or the electrical power in case of emergency.
6. Emergency training should be provided regularly and made mandatory.  

• Post smoking restrictions

“No Smoking” signs should be posted outside the restaurant, particularly in areas where discarded cigarettes can end up on top of mulch, wood chips, or any other flammable objects.

• Create a fire safety plan

A commercial kitchen should have an evacuation plan that is easily understood and posted at every egress point. 

In case of fire emergencies and fire damage, commercial kitchens can contact SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin for a professional and swift restoration of property.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lake Travis/NW Austin, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire damage restoration services in Spicewood and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin today at (512) 318-2200.

SERVPRO: How to maintain the beautiful yet expensive hardwood floors

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO article discusses the several steps homeowners can take to maintain their hardwood floors.

7 maintenance tips for hardwood floors

Hardwood floors bring a warm and earthy ambiance to a home. Not only are they stylish but also durable, if maintained well. They are expensive and therefore need a lot of care to make the investment worthwhile. SERVPRO, a commercial cleaning service, shares some maintenance tips for hardwood floors.

• Daily sweeping and dust mopping

Large pieces of debris can scratch the expensive floor. To avoid this, daily sweeping or dusting with a broom or microfiber dust mop is a must. 

1. A microfiber dust mop is a superior tool as it creates a static electricity charge that attracts and traps dust, allergens, and dirt particles. Avoid lifting the microfiber dust mop off the floor so the dust and dirt will remain firmly attached to the cleaning pad.
2. A broom is also an effective tool but it will just push the dirt around.
3. A robot vacuum is another option if there is a dearth of time. These vacuums are good for hardwood floors since they don’t have beater bars that can scratch or otherwise damage the floor. 
4. An upright vacuum has beater bars but it can be put on the bare floor setting first. The floor must also be protected from the wheels.

• Mop with hardwood floor cleaner monthly 

Water and wood are sworn enemies. So when mopping a hardwood floor, only an oil-based, soap-free hardwood floor detergent should be used, especially for older hardwood floors with penetrating finishes. A newer floor with a surface finish can be mopped with warm water mixed with dish soap or a water-based hardwood floor cleaner.

Caution: 

1. Excessive liquid on the hardwood floor, even one with a protective surface finish, could cause water damage to the wood.
2. Avoid DIY floor cleaners made with vinegar, lemon juice, tea, or other acidic substances, as they can destroy the floor’s finish gradually but definitely. 

• Deep clean

The frequency of deep cleaning a hardwood floor depends on the owner’s lifestyle. Kids and/or pets, for example, may warrant a deep cleaning every three to six months. Otherwise, an annual cleaning may suffice.

• Apply a new coat

As time goes by, the finish on hardwood floors becomes worn out with traffic and time. A new coat of finish every three to five years helps restore the look of the floors and helps them last longer. 

• Sand and refinish

Every few decades, a hardwood floor requires sanding and refinishing. This helps restore deeply scratched, pitted, and stained hardwood floors. Using mats or rugs at entries and high-traffic areas helps keep a new or newly refinished floor looking new for longer. 

• Address water spills and excess moisture

A water spill left unaddressed on a hardwood floor can permeate into the wood, causing either warping or discoloration, or both. Water can also leak into the cracks between the floorboards, causing moisture to absorb into the subflooring beneath the hardwood floorboards. This heightens the risk of mold growth. Immediate removal of water from the floor is imperative to protect it from any water damage.

• Don’t drag heavy objects

Dragging heavy objects like furniture and refrigerators can scratch the expensive flooring. Homeowners can protect the flooring by practicing the following methods:

1. Lighten the load of the object by removing items stored in it.
2. Sandwich the heavy object and the flooring with a soft material like folded towels or small rugs to avoid scratching.
3. Use gliders - special pads that fit under the object and allow smooth movement.
4. Be careful of wheels as they can seem unharmful but can wreak havoc on the floor.

To maintain the beauty and prolong the lifespan of hardwood floors, SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin offers time-tested and industry-approved cleaning methods. Its proprietary cleaning system allows proper cleaning and restoration of the floor’s original beauty.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lake Travis / NW Austin, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For commercial cleaning services in Leander and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin today at (512) 318-2200.

Good practices a commercial space can follow to prevent water damage

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: SERVPRO shares how to recognize signs of water damage and practical steps to keep a check on potential water damage.

What are the signs of water damage in a commercial property?

Water damage incidents, if neglected, can escalate property maintenance costs. SERVPRO showcases some common causes of water damage in commercial spaces:

• Equipment and appliances

Any equipment such as air conditioners, water heaters, or anything that uses tubes, pipes, or filters to operate water has the potential to cause water damage. Concerns like rust, cracks, bulges, or signs of moisture can be spotted in time if there is a regular check and maintenance system. Preventative measures can save a property from major water damage restoration costs.

• The roof

Neglecting any damage to perimeter flashing, roof membrane, or roof penetrations such as drains, pipes, and gas lines could lead to major restoration needs. Checking the roof regularly can help avoid potential leaks, which in turn can prevent mold issues and fire hazards from shortened wires and compromised structural integrity.

• Pipes and sewage

A regular investigation of the plumbing system for signs of moisture, blue stains, rusting, cracking, and bulging can prevent serious water damage. Scale build-up, cut pipes, and uninsulated pipes are other signs to watch out for. A pipe camera or a leak detection system is very useful for a prevention plan.  

Sewage damage signs such as gurgling sounds or water backing up out of the drain or toilet must be addressed by a professional water restoration company like SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin immediately. Sewer water contains bacteria and other pathogens that cause illnesses and infections.

• Sprinkler Systems

A malfunctioning sprinkler system in commercial buildings can cause severe water damage. A regular check for signs of damage such as wet surfaces like drywall and carpets, mold, standing water, or rust enables timely action.

• Mother Nature

Some causes cannot be controlled but can be prepared for. Natural disasters like hurricanes, severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, and tornadoes can do unimaginable damage to businesses. Keeping gutters clear, installing barriers, and storing sensitive files and electronics at a higher level mitigate the damage.

A risk assessment and flood insurance is also a worthwhile investment.  

• Damaged windows

Windows that are sealed improperly can cause moisture to seep in, triggering issues such as mold build-up and warped wood and drywall. Regular resealing is crucial since caulk eventually breaks down.

• Building foundations

Clogged gutters and poor drainage can cause water to leak into the property through the roof or the foundation. Nearby puddles and wet framing are the most common signs of leaks in building foundations.

• HVAC issues

Ducts in the HVAC systems eventually wear out and get damaged, resulting in leaks. The HVAC system must be cleaned regularly and the excess water from the condensation reservoirs should be removed to prevent water damage.

How to prevent water damage in the first place?

Prevention is always better than cure. Even minor damage mended in time can prevent huge restoration costs. 

1. Flood monitoring system

An efficient flood warning system is ideal not only in flood-prone areas but also to catch flooding caused by plumbing failures, overflowing rivers, and melting snow. 

1. More insurance coverage

Water damage restoration is an expensive affair. By including water damage in the insurance policy, one can deal with the costs more easily. 

1. Regular water damage inspection 

Get the property inspected by water restoration professionals like SERVPRO once a year and conduct leak detection in several ways, such as humidity monitoring and the use of spot sensors. Invest in facility maintenance.

One can’t eliminate all risk of water damage to property but monitoring the common culprits, practicing good maintenance, and taking preventative measures can reduce risks phenomenally, and enable a better response mechanism in case of emergencies. 

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lago Vista and surrounding areas can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire IICRC-industry certification.

For commercial water damage restoration, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin today at (512) 318-2200.

Professional Carpet and upholstery cleaning and its benefits

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The 6 benefits of a professional carpet and upholstery cleaning and how SERVPRO is the ideal choice.

Is it time to clean that carpet and upholstery professionally?

A carpet and upholstery make a home or a commercial space welcoming and aesthetically appealing. It is an investment. If neglected, this investment can become a liability. 

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification states that 79% of the soil in carpets is dry soil.

Preventative maintenance actions for carpet and upholstery include: 

• Regular vacuuming
• Spot removal
• Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

However, a professional carpet and upholstery cleaning, depending upon the foot traffic and usage, is a worthwhile investment. 

SERVPRO shares 7 benefits of a professional carpet and upholstery cleaning service:

1. Eliminates odors

Some odors are very hard to eradicate with normal cleaning. Air fresheners can only mask the odor, not remove it. The common causes of odors in carpets and upholstery are moisture, pets, cigarette smoke, and food and drink spills. 

Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning removes visible dirt, stains, and odors. If there has been a recent water damage incident, a musty odor may indicate growth of mold and may need an immediate and professional mold remediation process. 

1. Removes stubborn stains

Once stains seep into the carpet and upholstery fibers, they can leave a sticky residue that attracts dirt and dust. This leaves dark patches that are impossible to remove with home cleaning.  

A professional carpet and upholstery cleaning enables removal of tough stains such as:

• Coffee spills
• Dirt and mud
• Ink
• Pet stains
• Red wine

1. Increases lifespan

Carpets made with certain fabrics will absorb moisture from the environment and as a result, affect the carpet structure. The stains and dirt carpet collect may harden a carpet and lead to minor tearing. Removing these clogged pores will undoubtedly increase the lifespan of a carpet.

In the case of upholstery, specks of dirt and dust can act like sandpaper and weaken the fibers, causing internal damage. By regularly cleaning to halt the accumulation of these specks of dirt, the furniture is likely to look new and survive for long.  

1. Reduces allergens

Common allergens such as pollen, pet dander, mold, and dust mites, settle indoors mostly on carpets and upholstery, increasing the chances of allergies. A vacuum will only remove surface dirt while most debris will become embedded within the fibers of the upholstery and carpet.

Innovative cleaning techniques practised by restoration companies like SERVPRO can help remove most allergens from these surfaces successfully. 

1. Maintains the aesthetics

Carpeting is the largest furnishing in a room besides furniture upholstery. It is also the one that receives the most traffic. Stains, dirt, and odors can make a home or office look and feel unattractive and unhygienic. A professional carpet and upholstery cleaning not only keeps fibers looking new but enhances the aesthetics of a room.

1. Reduces “traffic lane” effects

Carpets in hallways, living rooms, and kitchens receive significant foot traffic. Therefore these areas tend to deteriorate much faster than those in bedrooms or under couches. Due to dirt these areas also seem darker than others. 

Professional carpet cleaning removes dirt and restores fibers thereby slowing down the “traffic lanes” effects.

Why SERVPRO?

Even the highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time. The SERVPRO System offers several cleaning options to match any type of upholstery or carpet.

• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short-pile carpets.
• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
• Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.

SERVPRO’s professional cleaning can address moderate and heavy soil conditions in carpets and upholstery. A good rule of thumb would be to professionally clean carpet and upholstery every 12 months and before they become saturated with soil and debris.

For a professional carpet and upholstery cleaning in Spicewood and surrounding areas, backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 40 years of experience, and highly-trained technicians, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin today at (512) 318-2200.

12 preventive measures that can reduce the damage caused by storms

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: SERVPRO talks about 12 ways to strengthen a property to reduce storm damage and how SERVPRO technicians can help.

How to mitigate storm damage?

Storms are unpredictable and the damage they can cause can be extensive and life-threatening. SERVPRO shares 12 preventive measures to maintain a property and mitigate damage that can be caused by storms. 

1. Reinforce the roof

A roof that is 5-10 years older should be checked for damaged shingles and loose nails and sheathing. 

• A damaged shingle is more likely to break free during a storm. And a missing shingle is a dangerous gap for the wind to get under and cause more damage. Ensure the shingles are installed correctly - not above the nail line. 
• The siding must also be checked for damage and repaired as per need.
• The chimney flashing must be in prime condition and the chimney can be tightly sealed, if necessary.
• Reinforce the roof by having it retrofitted with brackets, bracing, clips, or straps.

The SERVPRO roof restoration team can assist in repairing and reinforcing the roof and making the property safer during storms.

1. Clear gutters

Ensuring the gutters are clear is the first line of defense in helping water to flow away from the property. Gutters should be free-flowing and the downspouts must flow away from the foundation.

In case there is water damage after a storm, SERVPRO water damage technicians can help the owners restore their property.

1. Create the right slope

The grade of the lot should allow water to flow away from the property and into a ditch, drain, or any proper retention area. One could add some soil to create a slope of a quarter-inch per foot heading downhill away from the property’s foundation. Gravity will pull the water away from the house and prevent summer storm damage.

1. Secure the foundation

To avoid basement flooding and water damage to property during a storm, the house foundations should be completely waterproof. Necessary repairs must be made to any cracks:

• Small cracks must be sealed with caulk designed to repair masonry
• Larger gaps should be mended with hydraulic cement

1. Ensure a working sump pump

Sump pumps must be checked before spring rains start. To be extra safe, a backup sump pump along with a battery backup, in case of power cuts, would help safeguard against basement flooding.

6. Seal doors and windows tightly

In case of tornado winds, a small opening in windows or doors could enlarge and allow enough wind inside to compromise the property’s roof. 

• Check doors for missing screws/bolts or loose hinges 
• Fit keyhole covers on doors to keep rainwater and snow at bay
• Use weather-stripping to seal doors and windows tightly
• Apply caulk on both sides of windows to prevent water seepage
• Apply a durable clear plastic film on windows to prevent glass shards from blowing inside the house if the winds breach the windows 
• Install permanent shutters to shield windows from wind and debris 
• Windows made especially to withstand storm-level air pressure and impact can be installed in areas with extreme weather conditions

7. Nail down loose fence posts

Fence posts that are not nailed down will be uprooted by storm winds. Therefore, they must be checked during the storm preparation. 

8. Trim the trees

A dead, hollowed, or diseased tree is unlikely to stand up to the strong winds and rains of a summer storm. Such problem trees can damage homes, vehicles, or even a neighbor’s property. A tree expert can also be hired to check for dangerous trees.

In general, regularly trimming the trees on the property is an excellent way to protect the roof and windows.

9. Secure the furniture 

Heavy, tall furniture, such as bookshelves or cabinets, should be anchored to the wall so they’re secure and won’t fall. Additionally, furniture must be moved away from doors or windows.

10. Protect vehicles

Vehicles left outdoors during a storm are bound to be impacted by flying debris and hail. They can be parked in the garage, a covered parking space, or a temporary shelter. 

11. Identify projectiles

Items such as lawn furniture, tools, grills, picnic tables, and flower pots must be moved indoors to a garage or shed, lest they become dangerous projectiles.

12. Keep a generator on standby

A power cut-off, for some hours or even days, is a likely incident in case of a bad storm. So it is advisable to have a generator at hand so living in the house is comfortable until power is restored.   

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lake Travis / NW Austin, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For storm damage restoration in Leander and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin today at (512) 318-2200.

Why SERVPRO Is a Top Choice for Biohazard Cleanup

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO is a leading choice for biohazard cleanup in Austin. Here their experts explain how they go above and beyond for their customers and stand apart from the competition.

Without the right tools and expertise cleaning up a biohazard incident, such as a sewage backup, can be both dangerous and difficult. That's why it's best to take advantage of the services of a licensed biohazard cleanup company like SERVPRO. SERVPRO has over 23 years of experience providing industry-leading biohazard cleaning services that put the needs of Austin residents first. 

Why SERVPRO Is a Top Choice for Biohazard Cleanup

When choosing a biohazard cleanup company, experience matters. A contractor that can handle a wide range of pathogens ensures the cleanup process will go smoothly regardless of any unexpected developments.  SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin offers a comprehensive range of biohazard cleanup services.

Sewage Backups

Sewage backups pose significant property damage and health risks. SERVPRO is an Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certified firm with Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians. Their biohazard cleanup crew can remove the sewage, clean all surfaces, and eliminate odors along with harmful microorganisms.    

Blood-Borne Pathogens

Blood and other bodily fluids and tissues left behind after an accident, death, or crime are difficult to remove from carpets and other absorbent surfaces. SERVPRO goes deep into the fabrics and cracks to remove every trace of the incident.

Illegal Drug Manufacturing Labs

After taking possession of a property formerly used for illegal drug manufacturing, professional biohazard cleanup is mandatory. That’s because manufacturing meth and other illicit substances generate harmful compounds and odors that cling to surfaces.

SERVPRO can remove these unsafe residues according to federal and state laws. The company's deep biohazard cleaning can make any property safe again.

The experts at SERVPRO also have experience with:

• Tear gas cleanup
• Animal waste
• Chemical spills
• Homicide cleanups
• Hoarding situations

What to Look for in a Biohazard Cleaning Company

Before hiring a biohazard cleanup company in Austin, Texas, verify that they meet these requirements:

OSHA Compliant Cleaning Methods

The best biohazard and water cleanup companies adhere to OSHA regulations regarding handling harmful waste and using personal protective equipment. A company that isn’t OSHA compliant can’t guarantee the safety of its staff or clients. The company must also comply with EPA and state biohazard cleaning laws.

Reporting and Testing

An insurance company may require a detailed biohazard cleanup report before agreeing to cover the damages. The best water, biohazard, and fire restoration companies provide such reports and any other documentation customers need for their claim. That includes documented tests that prove a property is free of biohazards.

Convenient Scheduling

The best cleanup companies are easy to reach and respond quickly to biohazard emergencies.

Experience and Licensing

It’s best to work with licensed companies that have experience handling your specific biohazard incident. The more experienced the company is, the better they’ll be at delivering desired results.

Positive Customer Reviews

The company must have more positive than negative reviews regarding their professionalism and expertise. The reviews must also indicate that the company’s staff is courteous and competent.

SERVPRO meets all these requirements and more to ensure complete biological and chemical contaminant removal.

How Does SERVPRO Stand Apart?

SERVPRO's biohazard and water damage restoration experts go deep to eliminate stains, odors, and other harmful elements left by biohazard accidents. The company keeps its services hassle-free by helping customers file and process cleanup claims with their insurers.

SERVPRO’s advanced technology equips their team to tackle residential and commercial water damage and biohazard messes of all sizes. They also offer a range of other cleaning services:

• Mold removal
• Carpet and upholstery
• Ceiling, floors, and walls
• Drapes and blinds

Unlike other biohazard and mold remediation companies, SERVPRO is also available 24/7. Contact SERVPRO today at (512) 318-2202 or request help online to schedule emergency biohazard cleanup anywhere in Spicewood, TX, Lake Travis, TX and surrounding areas. You can also follow them on Facebook for helpful restoration and remediation tips.

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

6500 River Place Boulevard

Building 7 – Suite 250

Austin, TX 78730

www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com/

5 Things to Do While Waiting for a Water Damage Restoration Company

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin offer five tips to help minimize damage and speed up the restoration process while waiting for a water damage restoration company.

Indoor flooding due to weather events or plumbing issues can lead to extensive property damage. It’s crucial to call a water damage restoration company as quickly as possible. That way, the process of evacuating the floodwater and taking necessary measures to eliminate moisture can begin. 

While waiting for the restoration team to arrive, the experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin recommend taking a few steps to minimize damage and aid in the water restoration process. SERVPRO has served the Austin area for over 23 years and is a local leader in water, fire, and storm restoration services.

5 Things to Do While Waiting for a Water Damage Restoration Company

1.      Take Steps to Eliminate the Water Source

If the flood is due to a burst water pipe or faulty faucet, turn off the main water valve. If the water is a result of weather-related flooding, ensure all drainage systems are free of debris and any devices, such as a sump pump, are active. Then set up temporary flood barriers, such as sandbags, inflatable floodwalls, flood skirts, or portable flood gates. Likewise, cover any exterior damage (broken windows, roof holes, etc.) with a tarp, shower curtain, or plastic trash bags.

2.      Turn Off the Power

If the flooding is close to power outlets, cut power to the building at the main. Leaving the power on can lead to injuries and increase the risk of an electrical fire. 

3.      Open the Windows

Floodwater in an enclosed space leads to airborne moisture. Airborne moisture can settle in unseen places and create a breeding ground for mold and other pathogens. Opening windows can help reduce humidity levels. However, skip this step if doing so may allow more water into the space (such as during heavy rainstorms).

4.      Start an Insurance Claim

Many homeowners insurance policies will cover temporary housing during the restoration process if necessary. Beginning the claims process early ensures these options are available as soon as possible. It also offers the chance to verify the type of flooding occurring is covered.

Insurance generally covers sudden, unpreventable flood damage, but preventable events, such as those due to lack of maintenance, typically aren't. Natural flooding requires an insurance rider.

5. Document the Damage

Because the cause of the flood damage is crucial to insurance coverage, early documentation of the damage that clearly shows the cause of the damage is key to a successful claim. A good water damage restoration company will assist with this process, but taking photos, videos, and writing down what happened while waiting for their arrival can also be helpful. 

Get Help from a Professional Water Damage Restoration Company in Austin, Texas

Evacuating floodwater is not enough to repair residential or commercial water damage. Water restoration companies have specialized tools for removing every bit of moisture from a flooded property. These companies also have cleanup equipment for quickly restoring flooded spaces to their pre-damaged condition.

Quick water damage restoration is essential for preventing mold and further damage to flooded property. That’s why SERVPRO provides emergency water cleanup services to homes and businesses all over Leander and Austin, TX.

Besides evacuating floodwater, SERVPRO also offers mold remediation services. Whether your flooding is due to broken plumbing or storm damage, contact SERVPRO for emergency services today at (512) 318-2202 or request help online. You can also follow them on Facebook for more helpful water restoration tips. 

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

6500 River Place Boulevard
Building 7 – Suite 250
Austin, TX 78730

www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com/

Fire Damage Restoration Tips: What to Do During and After Grease Fires

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin cover what to do during and after a grease fire step by step, including fire restoration tips.  

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of residential structure fires in the US. Understanding what to do during and after a grease fire is crucial to minimize damage.

The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin are here to go over what steps to take during and after a grease fire, as well as offer tips for the fire restoration process. SERVPRO has served the Austin area for over 23 years and is a leading fire restoration company.

Fire Damage Restoration Tips: What to Do During and After Grease Fires

Dealing with a cooking fire is always a stressful experience. Above all, try to keep calm and remember these dos and don’ts for dealing with a grease fire:

1.      Don’t Use Water on a Grease Fire

Unlike most fires, pouring water on a grease fire will make things worse. Instead of extinguishing the flame, the water will scatter the burning oil, spreading the fire.

2.      Don’t Pour Flour or Sugar on Grease Fires

Flour and sugar are flammable, and pouring either on a grease fire only fuels the flames.

3.      Don’t Use a Water-Based Extinguisher

Every kitchen needs a fire extinguisher, but not just any extinguisher. A water-based fire extinguisher will have the same effect as pouring water on a grease fire.

4.      Don’t Carry the Fire Outside

Carrying a pan with a grease fire outside is extremely dangerous. The burning grease may spill, injuring the carrier or spreading the fire to other areas of the home.

How to Correctly Deal with a Grease Fire

1.      Switch Off the Stove

Immediately turn off the stove. If the controls are inaccessible due to the flames, turn off your main gas or power supply.

2.      Use a Metal Lid

Putting a lid over a flaming pan will starve it of oxygen and extinguish the fire. If a metal lid isn’t available, a metal baking sheet will suffice. The lid must completely cover the flames, or they may still have access to oxygen.

Make sure to leave the lid on for at least a couple of minutes to ensure the flames are out. Glass or plastic lids are not suitable substitutes for putting out a cooking fire.

3.      Douse the Flames with Salt or Baking Soda

Pouring salt or baking soda on a flame will smother it. The amount of baking soda or salt needed will depend on the size of the flame. Do not use baking powder or flour in place of baking soda.

4.      Grab a Class B Flame Extinguisher

An Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) extinguisher that shoots foam or a class B dry fire extinguisher is best for putting out a grease fire. When using the extinguisher, stand back to prevent being hit by hot grease or flames.

When Do You Need a Professional?

If baking soda or a class B chemical fire extinguisher fails to fire, immediately go outside and call the fire department. Once the fire is out and the fire department grants permission to enter the building, call a water and fire damage restoration company to begin the clean-up process. 

The fire restoration process generally has a few stages: 

• Inspection and damage assessment
• Steps to prevent further damage (tarping any exterior holes, for example)
• Addressing any water left behind by suppression efforts
• Removal of any smoke or soot from walls and surfaces
• Cleaning, repair, and restoration

While waiting for the fire restoration company to arrive, avoid the area of the fire as that may spread soot to other areas. Don’t eat any food from the kitchen and leave the power off. Remember to call your insurance company to begin the claims process. 

How to Prevent Grease Fires

While it’s crucial to know how to handle a grease fire, knowing how to prevent them is also helpful. 

• Cook with appropriate utensils
• Never leaving the stove unattended
• Fry with cooking oils that have a high smoke point, such as canola, peanut, sesame, or sunflower oil
• Remove moisture from food before placing it in hot oil
• Have an easily accessible class B fire extinguisher in the kitchen

About SERVPRO

For clean-up after a grease fire in Lago Vista, Texas, contact SERVPRO. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is a leading provider of fire, water, and storm restoration services, as well as mold remediation and commercial cleaning.

SERVPRO can also assist with filing insurance paperwork for stress-free claims. Their team is available 24/7 and handles fire damage restoration jobs of all sizes. Request help online or dial (512) 318-2202 today for help cleaning up after a grease fire. You can also follow them on Facebook for more helpful fire and water restoration tips.

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

6500 River Place Boulevard
Building 7 – Suite 250
Austin, TX 78730

www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com/

What You Must Know About Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The experts at SERVPRO of  Lake Travis / NW Austin guide business owners in the Austin, TX, area through the essentials of the fire damage restoration process.

Fire damage is a nightmare scenario for any business owner. Storefronts, production facilities, warehouses, offices, and other commercial spaces are vital to day-to-day operations. Business owners need someone they can trust to handle the fire restoration process. 

SERVPRO is a locally owned fire damage restoration company with more than two decades of experience. Their certified, expert technicians can handle the combined threats of fire, water, mold damage, and more. They’ve helped countless companies overcome damage and get back to business with minimal delay.

What You Must Know About Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Point #1: Restoration Requires Expertise

Damage to a commercial property can be extensive after a fire and may include water damage and loss of structural integrity. Electrical systems and utilities might also be affected. Fire restoration companies must have comprehensive knowledge of not just the restoration process but electrical and HVAC systems.

Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) demonstrates the highest level of expertise in cleaning and restoration. At SERVPRO, certified crews adhere to stringent IICRC professional standards.

Point #2 Time Is of the Essence

A fire can keep causing damage long after it has been put out. Water from fire crews can damage furniture and building materials. Mold can grow on damp surfaces, causing odors. Smoke residue can create health and safety risks. Waiting too long could lead to long-term damage and harm the business’s reputation.

Fire damage should be mitigated before business operations resume. SERVPRO offers 24-hour emergency service, and their trained restoration specialists work quickly to prevent costly delays, minimize loss of business, and restore customer confidence.

Point #3 Water Damage Can Present Long-Term Challenges

Even after any standing water is removed, lingering effects of water damage can remain. If all surfaces aren't fully dried, and humidity levels aren't brought down, mold and rot could develop, producing odors and worsening structural damage. 

Choosing an emergency water damage restoration company that will take the time to comprehensively address the damage is vital. SERVPRO offers trusted water damage restoration services and has the tools and experience to address the many challenges of water damage.

Point #4 Mold Remediation Is More Than Mold Removal

Even dried surfaces can continue to harbor mold if not properly treated. Mold isn’t just unsightly. It can also potentially cause health effects to employees and customers. Mold spores can also spread rapidly to other parts of the building that escaped the original fire. 

SERVPRO has years of experience with mold remediation. They do more than simply remove mold. Their comprehensive remediation process prevents spread and repairs damage. The process involves:

• Detecting where mold has spread
• Containing mold to prevent further spread
• Filtering the air to eliminate mold spores
• Restoration of materials damaged by mold

About SERVPRO

SERVPRO has served the Austin area since 1998 and cares about the community. As part of a national franchise, they also have access to a massive network of resources, allowing them to offer fast, high-quality fire damage restoration services.

For more information about fire damage restoration or commercial cleaning, contact SERVPRO at (512) 318-2202 or request help online. Business owners can also follow them on Facebook for restoration tips, news, and more. 

Contact Information: 

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

6500 River Place Boulevard

Building 7 – Suite 250 

Austin, TX 78730

www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com/

4 Reasons to Begin Fire Restoration Immediately After a Fire

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

We were called to a Lake Travis home to help with their fire damage - always here to help!

Blog Summary: The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin explain why it is important to begin fire restoration immediately after a property is damaged by fire, from preventing further damage to reducing the chances of smoke damage. 

A house fire can be traumatic, and the aftermath can be overwhelming. Many homeowners find themselves so overwhelmed, in fact, that they put off starting the fire damage restoration process. However, that can be a bigger mistake than many people realize.

The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin are committed to minimizing the losses Austin homeowners suffer as a result of house fires. SERVPRO is a leading locally owned fire restoration company with the resources of a major national franchise. Here are five reasons they encourage homeowners not to delay the fire restoration process. 

4 Reasons to Begin Fire Damage Restoration Immediately

 #1: Smoke Damage

Smoke from a fire quickly travels beyond the fire’s origin—and the hotter the fire, the faster the smoke will spread. No matter how far from the fire itself, any room that smoke enters can end up with smoke residue. Smoke residue can settle behind curtains and in spaces around furniture and cupboards. 

Smoke can also enter a building’s ductwork. After that, each time the HVAC system runs, harmful particles will be spread throughout the home. They may even damage the HVAC system itself. The sooner smoke residue is cleaned up, the less damage it will do.

# 2: Acidic Soot Damage

Immediately after extinguishing the fire, residual soot starts falling and settling on surfaces. Soot is high in acidity and very destructive. Without quick mitigation, soot can cause big problems, including destroying natural surfaces, discoloring materials, and degrading metals. 

The magnetic charges in soot particles can even cause electrical short circuits, destroying electronics and posing the risk of causing a second fire.

#3: Health Implications of Smoke, Soot, and Mold

Inhaling smoke and soot residues is dangerous. Water used to extinguish the fire also must also be cleaned up quickly to prevent mold growth. Mold poses health effects and can be very difficult to get rid of once it’s established. 

Starting the fire restoration process right away will not only restore air quality in the structure but will get things dry and the humidity back to a safe level.

#4 Smoke Odors

Without quick fire damage restoration efforts, smoke odors can absorb into porous materials, where they are very hard to remove. In cases, they can’t be removed, and things like couches and sheetrock may need to be replaced. Dealing with set-in smoke odors can add significant cost and time to the fire damage restoration process as a result.

About SERVPRO

For over three decades, SERVPRO has provided home and business owners in the Lake Travis and Lago Vista, TX, area with the highest quality fire damage restoration services possible, striving to make the overwhelming aftermath of a house fire just a little less stressful. They also offer water removal, storm damage repair, mold remediation, and commercial cleaning services. 

For more information about fire damage or the fire damage restoration process, reach out to SERVPRO at (512) 318-2202.

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

6500 River Place Boulevard

Building 7 – Suite 250 

Austin, TX 78730

www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com/

4 Common Myths about Storm Restoration Debunked

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin reveal the truth about storm damage and the storm damage restoration process to debunk four common myths.

Homeowners in the Austin area are no strangers to storms, but a few storm damage restoration myths persist in the area nonetheless. Misconceptions about storm damage restoration can lead to further damage and unnecessary costs—the experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin, TX, are here to debunk these myths and reveal the truth. 

They have restored countless storm-damaged homes and are committed to helping the good people of Austin understand types of storm damage and the restoration process. 

4 Common Storm Restoration Myths Debunked 

 #1: If There Isn’t Visible Damage, There is No Damage

A visual inspection is the first step in assessing storm damage, but it’s a mistake to assume a roof or any other part of a home is unharmed just because there are no visible issues. 

Small cracks, dents, or punctures may go unnoticed, but they can still let water into the home or grow worse over time. After a storm, it is important to have a storm damage restoration expert who understands common signs of storm damage perform a complete inspection. This allows them to document the damage properly for insurance purposes.  

# 2: Warranties Cover All Roof Damage

Unfortunately, even homeowners with brand new roofing systems cannot rely on their warranties to cover all types of storm damage. Many roof warranties explicitly exclude storm and hail damage, as neither is directly related to the materials or installation process. 

If a warranty does cover storm damage, getting an inspection and beginning repairs quickly is vital. Failing to address issues promptly may result in more damage, which the warranty would not cover as it was caused by a failure to act.

#3: Water Removal is Enough to Prevent Mold Growth

Water damage is common following a major storm, whether from roof damage, a broken window, or a burst pipe. While removing any standing water from the area is an excellent first step—it should never be the last step to avoid mold growth. 

Any waterlogged building materials, such as sheetrock, need to be dried or replaced if necessary, and efforts should be made to bring the humidity level back to a safe level.

#4:  Not Filing a Claim Is an Effective Way to Avoid Rate Increases 

Even if a homeowner does not file a claim for storm damage, their insurance rate may increase. As other homeowners in the area will be filing claims, all homeowners in the area will see a rate increase, whether they file a claim or not. 

However, in situations where the cost of storm damage restoration would not exceed the deductible on the policy, avoiding the claims process may make sense. Hiring a storm damage restoration company to assess the damage is the first step in either case. 

About SERVPRO

SERVPRO has served the Lake Travis and Leander, TX, area for more than 30 years. They offer a wide range of storm damage restoration services, such as water cleanup and mold remediation. Their team works to make getting back to everyday life after a storm as hassle-free as possible.

For more information about storm damage or the restoration process, contact their team at (512) 318-2202.

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

6500 River Place Boulevard

Building 7 – Suite 250 

Austin, TX 78730

www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com/

Why SERVPRO Is a Leading Residential and Commercial Cleaning Service Provider

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: When disasters strike, commercial and residential property owners need superior cleaning services. Here is an overview of what to look for in a cleaning service, as well as what sets SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin apart from the competition. 

Whether for household clean-up or commercial janitorial services, many home and business owners opt to hire a professional commercial and residential cleaning service provider. With so many cleaning companies in the field, finding the right one can be tricky.

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin, Texas, is the area’s leading cleaning company. They offer a comprehensive range of residential and commercial services. Here’s a brief overview of qualities that all credible cleaning companies should possess and why SERVPRO stands apart from the competition. 

Four Qualities Commercial and Residential Cleaning Companies Should Have

1. Solid Reputation

A quality cleaning service provider should have a verifiable reputation for high work standards, professionalism, timeliness, and expertise. The best way to learn about a company’s reputation is to read customer reviews online, speak to past clients, and research the company on sites such as the Better Business Bureau. 

Online reviews play a significant role in a company’s reputation and are more influential than word-of-mouth referrals in many cases.  A reputable cleaning service provider like SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin will have nothing to hide. 

The company provides recent customer testimonials on their website to showcase their team’s ability to perform tasks beyond expectations.

2. Qualified Employees

Cleaning companies should have a staff of highly trained workers who know how to handle various cleaning situations. For instance, those who need assistance dealing with commercial water damage should look for a team with the skills and expertise to handle the water clean-up. 

The experienced specialists at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin not only know how to extract water from a property properly, but they have the training to provide everything from emergency water damage restoration to biohazard and sewage clean-up. 

3. Relevant Experience

Hiring a new cleaning company may save money on services, but their lack of experience could lead to damage or subpar results. A quality cleaning service should have sufficient knowledge to handle multiple cleaning tasks with ease. The team should also know how to come up with solutions to unique cleaning issues in a pinch. 

4. Broad Service Offerings

When hiring a professional cleaning service, look for companies that offer a wide array of services to ensure they are capable of leaving the home or business in top condition when the job is done. The more services they provide, the fewer companies required to finish other tasks. 

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin offers everything from residential carpet and upholstery cleaning to commercial mold removal. With their help, there's no need to hire housekeepers or a mold remediation company—SERVPRO does it all. 

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is a leading fire, storm, and water restoration company in Texas, but they offer much more. Their expert cleaners provide standard cleaning services like air duct cleaning as well as specialized services like odor removal. 

Cleaning both residential and commercial facilities requires an in-depth understanding of cleaning standards, safety protocols, industry requirements, and equipment use. At SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin, they use their impressive industry knowledge and expertise to restore almost any property to “like new” condition. 

Contact SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin at (512) 318-2202 to learn more about their residential and commercial cleaning services or follow them on Facebook for up-to-date company news.

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

6500 River Place Boulevard

Building 7 - Suite 250

Austin, Tx, 78730

https://www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com/

The Importance of Emergency Extraction in Water Damage Restoration

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: After a flood or other water exposure in a home or business, eliminating standing water from the premises is vital. The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin explain why and how water extraction factors into the water restoration process.

Water can do a devastating amount of damage to a home, and it can do it fast. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average water damage claim runs upwards of $10,000. However, property loss could quickly exceed that if the water damage restoration process is delayed. 

The water restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin stress the importance of fast-action water extraction and encourage homeowners not to delay beginning the restoration process for any reason.

What Is Fast-Action Water Extraction?

Fast-action or emergency water extraction is the process of eliminating standing water from a building. Extraction is the first step to bringing a water-damaged property back to its original condition. By expeditiously removing water from the home or business’s flooring, damage and the chance of mold growth are minimized. 

It takes a lot of work and specialized equipment to rid a property of water completely. Given this, it’s best to leave the water extraction process to a professional. 

Water Extraction vs. Water Mitigation

Extraction and mitigation are both parts of the water damage restoration process, but they aren't the same. Emergency extraction uses industrial vacuums and pumps to remove standing water. Mitigation is the process of preventing further damages by:

• Removing irreparable flooring, drywall, furniture, etc.
• Sanitizing and disinfecting affected surfaces
• Using dehumidifiers and industrial blowers to dry the property
• Deodorizing the property

Why Extraction Is Critical for Water Damage Restoration

Reduce the Risk of Mold

The biggest risk of allowing excess moisture to remain in a structure is mold. Mold thrives in moist conditions, including many common building materials. It can settle in walls, wood, and other porous surfaces and quickly spread in 24 to 48 hours. 

Inhaling mold spores can cause health effects. To prevent health effects, quick water extraction and efforts to dry the property out completely are a must. 

However, some water damage restoration companies do offer mold removal services in the event mold begins to grow before the emergency extraction is complete. 

Prevent Unnecessary Damage to Wood Surfaces

Wood is a porous surface. Hardwood flooring, framing materials, and wood furniture will continue to absorb moisture over time and are at risk for more than just mold or mildew damage. Water saturation can lead to discoloration, swelling, and even rot if left unaddressed long enough.  

By beginning the water extraction process quickly, dehumidifiers and other technology can be used to lower humidity levels in the space, helping to prevent unnecessary damage to wood surfaces. 

Protect Wiring and Electronics

The high humidity levels in a space with standing water can affect wiring and electronics rather quickly. At humidity levels at or above 80%, wiring damage is possible within 15 minutes. For reference, the average building without standing water has a humidity level between 40-50%, with over 65% considered unsafe.

Having houseplants alone can raise indoor humidity by 5% on average, while a fish tank can increase humidity by anywhere from 8 to 45% depending on the size of the space and tank. While there are no statistics on the effects of standing water in a room, the more moisture in a space, the higher the humidity and the chance of damage to wiring and electronics. 

Why SERVPRO

As a leading water and fire restoration company in Austin, Texas, SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin offers superior water damage restoration services. Their highly trained team provides 24-hour emergency water restoration, including fast-action water extraction. 

No matter the size of the water-related disaster, home and business owners can be confident that SERVPRO will have the right extraction and drying equipment for the job.

Learn more about SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin’s services by calling (512) 318-2202 or following them on Facebook today.

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

6500 River Place Boulevard

Building 7 - Suite 250

Austin, Tx, 78730

https://www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com/

Debunking the Biggest Myths on Smoke and Fire Damage Restoration

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Smoke and fire damage restoration is a vital service, but few people understand what the process entails. Here, the professionals at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin debunk myths about the restoration process.

Fires can cause devastating damage to residential, commercial, or industrial buildings. When the flames go out, a charred, soggy mess with soot residue from the smoke is often left behind, and homeowners are left overwhelmed, facing the restoration process for the first time.

Worse, many people have misconceptions about the types of fire damage and how fire restoration can help. The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin hope to debunk several myths about the topic.

Top 5 Myths About Smoke and Fire Damage Restoration Debunked

1. Only Areas Burned by the Fire Need Restoration

Flames can undoubtedly do significant damage, but smoke and suppression efforts do their fair share too. 

The fire restoration process typically includes water or fire suppression chemical clean-up, soot removal and clean-up, smoke damage restoration, textile and furniture deodorization, and ventilation and air duct cleaning. If water clean-up is delayed, mold remediation may also be necessary. 

In short, fire damage goes far beyond just dealing with areas the flames actually burned, often encompassing the entire building. 

2. Fire Damage Restoration Takes a Long Time

Fire damage is often extensive and requires substantial work using specialized tools and safety equipment to resolve. Even so, the time it takes a fire restoration company to complete a job depends on the extent of the damage—it doesn’t always take a long time. 

As fire restoration efforts should begin as soon as possible after the building is deemed safe to enter by the fire department, it often goes much faster than homeowners expect. If the fire was small and contained, the entire process can happen in as little as a day. 

3. There's No Need to Address Smoke Damage Quickly

While many homeowners understand the urgency of water removal after a fire, smoke damage is often less of a concern for them—but it should be. 

Smoke and the soot it leaves behind can be corrosive. The longer it remains on surfaces, the more damage it can cause. It's best not to exceed 48 hours before beginning the fire damage restoration process. Otherwise, damage to metals and electronics can be permanent or create a lingering, unpleasant odor.

This point also holds true for permeable surfaces saturated by smoke—the longer deodorization is delayed, the more likely efforts are to fail. 

5. Restoration Costs More Than Replacement

It’s a common misconception that things like furniture and textiles are cheaper to replace than restore, leading many homeowners to unnecessarily throw out items. 

On average, clean-up and deodorization of fabric surfaces range between $200 - $1,000 for an entire home. Considering it costs between $2,000 - $3,000 to purchase basic living room furniture alone, in many cases, restoration is far more cost-effective. Even better, if done properly, fire restoration can restore items to their original state "Like it never even happened."

Why SERVPRO?

The professionals at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin provide professional fire, water, and storm restoration services as well as mold remediation services to quickly restore both commercial and residential buildings to their original condition. 

To see why SERVPRO is one of the best fire restoration companies in Austin, Texas, call (512) 318-2202 to schedule a consultation or follow them on Facebook to stay updated on the latest company news. 

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

6500 River Place Boulevard

Building 7 - Suite 250

Austin, Tx, 78730

https://www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com/

4 Steps to Take After Storm Damage: A Guide for Homeowners

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: If your home experiences storm damage, you might not know how to bring your property back to its pre-storm condition. SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin provides a helpful guide for homeowners dealing with storm damage. 

4 Steps to Take After Storm Damage: A Guide for Homeowners

After a storm, you might be shocked to see how much damage is left in its wake. Water and wind can affect everything from your roof to the trees in your yard—sometimes even flooding your house. 

Dealing with the aftermath of a severe storm can be distressing, but the professionals at SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin, one of the area’s leading storm damage and emergency water restoration companies, are here to help. Below, they offer a simple guide to help you manage your property after inclement weather strikes. 

Assess the Damage

Once the storm leaves the area and it's safe to go outside, it's time to evaluate the extent of the storm damage. You won’t notice everything right away, but you will need to take as many pictures of the damage as possible so that your insurance adjuster can make an accurate assessment. 

The roof is one of the most vulnerable features of your home during a storm. Signs of roof damage include:

• Holes
• Dented gutters, flashing, and vents
• Missing or broken shingles

Interior leaks are another sign of roof damage, and can cause a new set of problems. If your roof is leaking, brown water stains on your ceiling or walls may be visible. 

A leaky roof is a prime environment for mold growth, which can happen as soon as 24 hours after water damage occurs. If the mold is left unaddressed, you could experience additional structural problems. Hiring a mold remediation company for mold removal will be necessary.

Other signs of storm damage to watch for during your assessment include:

• Flooding
• Broken windows
• Downed trees
• Cracked siding

Contact Your Insurance Company

After you evaluate the damage to your home, call your insurance company to file a claim. If the adjuster approves the claim, the company can compensate you for making necessary repairs and replacements. Provide the insurance agent with your pictures, receipts for temporary living expenses, and other essential documentation to ensure that they approve your claim quickly.

Hire the Appropriate Restoration Companies

For severe storm damage, turn to contractors who have the tools and experience to restore your home safely. For instance, a professional tree service can remove a downed tree from your yard, and a water restoration company can provide water cleanup if your home floods. 

Storm damage restoration companies will make the recovery process less stressful and can help get your home back to its original condition in no time.

Why SERVPRO?

The professionals at SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin understand the damage a storm can cause. Serving residents throughout Austin, Texas, and the surrounding area, these experts will respond quickly to storm damage and other residential or commercial water damage. No job is too big for their highly trained team. 

For more details about SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin and their services, follow them on Facebook or call (512) 318-2202 today.

Contact information:

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

P: (512) 318-2202

6500 River Place Boulevard

Building 7 – Suite 250

Austin, TX 78730

5 Tips on Handling Commercial Water Damage

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Commercial water damage can lead to a myriad of problems for business owners. The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin offer helpful tips on what to do when dealing with commercial water damage.

Tips for Handling Commercial Water Damage

If your business’s plumbing springs a leak or experiences flooding from extreme weather, dealing with the water damage can be a stressful ordeal. From ruined merchandise, to structural damage and filing claims with your insurance company, handling commercial water damage requires prompt action. Hiring the right water restoration company helps to reduce your losses and get your business back up and running. 

The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin have some suggestions and tips for managing your commercial property’s water damage.

Assess the Damage

Before you can deal with commercial water damage, you need to know the scope of the problem. Unfortunately, it isn’t enough to just look for water damage because water can quickly soak into building materials like drywall and flooring. 

The presence of moisture may not be noticeable in these materials immediately, but it can do untold damage if left to sit. 

Emergency water restoration companies use tools like moisture meters to measure water during their assessments. With their equipment and experience, they can provide you with a thorough evaluation of your commercial water damage.

Hire a Professional Restoration Company

Like most business owners, you likely don’t have the experience or tools to handle extensive commercial water damage. That's why you need water restoration experts’ assistance. These experts can handle everything from the initial assessment to restoration. The most vital service they offer is the dry-out.

Mold can begin growing as soon as 24 hours after a flood because it thrives in moist conditions. Water restoration companies use various tools to effectively dry out flooded commercial spaces, including wet vacuums and dehumidifiers. They also keep track of the room's moisture levels with tools like a thermo-hygrometer. 

If the affected area retains any moisture, you may need to hire a mold remediation company. Some water restoration companies offer mold removal, but most strive to prevent growth from occurring. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin has professional technicians certified in both water damage restoration and mold removal and remediation.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Don’t wait too long to contact your insurance provider. They may deny the claim if too much time passes. A commercial water damage restoration company can guide you through the steps for filing an insurance claim and offer vital tips to prevent the damage from spreading. 

Depending on the insurer, your policy, and your business’s location, you may have a separate policy to cover floods. Either way, the insurance agent can walk you through the claims process.

Document the Damage and Restoration Process

Your insurance company will need documentation relevant to the commercial water damage to file a claim. In addition to photographs of the damage, you should document:

• What items you had to throw out 
• Readings from the moisture meter that include the date and time
• The estimates for restoring the property and treating the flood

Water restoration companies frequently work with insurance companies, so they can help you collect the necessary documentation. 

Why SERVPRO?

As one of the top water restoration companies serving Austin, Texas, SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin offers timely commercial water damage restoration services. They will respond to disasters of all sizes, 24-hours a day. Whether you own a small boutique or a big box store, their team can mitigate the damage and handle the restoration process from beginning to end. 

Follow SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin on Facebook for up-to-date company news or call (512) 318-2202 to learn more about their services.

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

P: (512) 318-2202

6500 River Place Boulevard

Building 7 – Suite 250

Austin, TX 78730

4 Reasons to Hire Professional Fire Restoration Companies

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Home on fire - we are here to help after firefighters have extinguished your property.

Blog Summary: Fires can be devastating, and dealing with the aftermath is often overwhelming. The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin explain why it’s best to hire professional fire restoration companies to restore your home or business after a fire.

Four Reasons to Hire Fire Restoration Companies

A structure fire can be traumatic. You lose a sense of comfort and safety watching your residence and personal belongings or business go up in flames. Once firefighters have extinguished the last ember on the property, it’s time to clean up the mess and start the restoration process. That’s not a process you should do yourself.

Fire restoration companies like SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin specialize in mitigating disasters of all sizes. Here are a few reasons you need a professional fire restoration company's assistance to restore your home or business to its pre-fire condition.

1. Fast, Safe, and Efficient Work

The last thing you should do is enter a building after a fire. You could subject yourself to unhealthy smoke and ash, which worsens the longer it sits. A fire restoration company will work quickly to remove all traces of smoke and ash from your property safely using professional-grade face masks, boots, gloves, and other protective gear.

Purchasing the necessary equipment is very expensive, and if you don’t have the right tools for the job, it will take you longer to complete the restoration. You could even accidentally inhale toxic fumes.

2. Experience

If you’ve never cleaned up after a fire, you probably don't know all the nuances that come with restoring a room. However, workers for professional fire restoration companies have ample experience dealing with the aftermath of a blaze. 

They know how to handle both residential and commercial fire damage. They also understand how to deal with residential and commercial water damage, a common side effect of extinguishing a structural fire. 

Some fire restoration companies offer the same water cleanup and emergency water restoration services as water restoration companies to prevent residential and commercial water damage. If traces of moisture remain from putting out the fire, mold can set in, which would require mold removal services from a mold remediation company—extra cost and hassle. 

Fire restoration professionals have the proper water vacuums, heaters, blowers, and know-how to quickly eliminate water from the flooring, walls, and upholstery.

3. Knowledge

Though you may want to save all of your belongings after a fire for emotional reasons, fire restoration companies know which items they can salvage and which ones need total replacement. For instance, they might need to throw out and replace porous materials like carpeting, but they have the tools and expertise to clean non-porous materials like concrete and brick. 

4. Insurance Company Partnership

Dealing with an insurance company after a fire can be as stressful as cleaning up the mess. Fire restoration companies work closely with these insurers and know what to expect during the claims process. Their team will provide you with the necessary estimates, pictures, and documentation to guarantee a smooth claim process with your insurer.

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin serves clients throughout Austin, Texas, and provides them with superior fire restoration services to restore their properties to their original state. They offer 24-hour emergency services and respond quickly to disasters of any size. 

As one of the area’s leading fire restoration companies, SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin has the staff, equipment, and expertise to successfully assess, plan, and complete fire damage restorations. For more details about their services, follow SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin on Facebook or call (512) 318-2202 today.

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

P: (512) 318-2202

6500 River Place Boulevard

Building 7 – Suite 250

Austin, TX 78730

House Damaged By Severe Weather? You Might Need Storm Damage Restoration

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Water and mold issues are a common problem for homeowners following a storm. See how a storm damage restoration company like SERVPRO can help fix problems quickly in Austin, TX.

House Damaged By Severe Weather? You Might Need Storm Damage Restoration

Most homes are built to withstand harsh conditions. But if you live in Austin, Texas, you realize that Mother Nature can throw a powerful curveball that can rattle the sturdiest roof or foundation. Throughout the year, but particularly in spring and summer, Austin can be slammed by thunderstorms, hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods.

Sometimes storm damage is obvious — a tree trunk crashes onto your roof or a flash flood fills your basement. 

However, in many cases, you might not notice the damage caused by destructive winds and heavy rains. If the problem persists, it can lead to serious structural and health effects in the future. 

Spotting water damage — either from heavy rains or from winds that make your home vulnerable to leaks — is the most important action you can take following a storm. Read these tips from SERVPRO before the next storm strikes.

How to Spot Exterior Storm Damage

Powerful storms can tear off roof tiles and crack exterior walls, which invites moisture and wildlife. 

According to the National Storm Damage Center, you should inspect the exterior of your home to determine whether it’s suffered damage after a storm. 

Follow this checklist:

• Look over downspouts and gutters to make sure they are intact and diverting water away from the house
• Inspect the roof for cracked, dented, or missing shingles, splits in seams, and damage to flashing
• Look at exterior doors and windows for broken panes, cracks, and damaged frames
• Check exterior siding, brick, or stucco for dents, cracks, holes, or discoloration
• Look at your attic or crawlspace for signs of leaks or streaks of sunlight coming through the ceiling

Finding and fixing damage immediately after a storm is vital. It takes only a tiny leak to result in mold production, which can spread through your home rapidly. 

While this list helps with obvious issues, some may still go unnoticed. The best way to ensure that your house is free from damage following a storm is to get a top-to-bottom inspection by a professional restoration company.

How to Fix Storm Damage

If you find signs of storm damage—whether it’s a leaky roof or a flooded basement—it’s essential to work with storm and water damage restoration experts to fix the problems. Professional storm and water restoration companies like SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin, TX, have the equipment and experience to deal with repair and cleanup following the worst disasters.

Expert water restoration companies and mold remediation companies provide the following services:

Water damage restoration

• Inspect your home to determine the extent of water damage
• Use powerful vacuums and pumps to remove standing water
• Test moisture levels to determine the number of fans and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home thoroughly
• Provide professional cleaning to sanitize and remove odors
• Offer repairs like drywall replacement or carpet installation

Mold removal

• Find and remove the source of water, moisture, and humidity causing mold production
• Identify and contain areas of mold
• Remove mold and mold-infested materials
• Use an air filtration system to remove mold spores
• Clean and sanitize mold-infected areas
• Repair areas damaged by mold and mold removal

Need help with storm damage restoration?

Locally owned and operated, SERVPRO provides storm damage restoration services to Austin, TX, and throughout the 78730 zip code. It is one of central Texas’ leading residential water, mold, and fire restoration companies, and provides commercial water damage restoration, too.

SERVPRO offers 24/7 emergency service. If you have a fire, mold, or water cleanup and restoration job in Austin, contact SERVPRO online or call 512-318-2202.

Water Leaking from A Ceiling? Don’t Panic! Call a Water Damage Restoration Pro

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

Blog Summary: Learn how to spot serious ceiling water damage and how water damage restoration experts SERVPRO can fix water damaged ceilings quickly in Austin, TX.

Water Leaking from A Ceiling? Don’t Panic! Call a Water Damage Restoration Pro

Austin, Texas, is located between a few storm centers. It's close enough to the Gulf Coast to get hit by hurricanes, and it sits near the southern swath of Tornado Alley. If you have a home in Austin, TX, chances are you’ve looked up at the ceiling after a wicked storm to see the telltale discoloration of a leaky roof and water damage.

There are few things less welcome in your home than a water damaged ceiling. Not only is it unsightly, but it's also a symptom of a malfunction in another part of the building. It’s important to fix the leak and get rid of the resulting dampness before mold grows or the ceiling collapses.

What Causes Ceiling Water Damage?

You might not notice a ceiling leak until water starts dripping on your head. Luckily, there are often signs of a water problem before it starts to drip. 

The most common sign is a discolored spot or patch of blistered paint overhead. This small cosmetic issue can turn into buckling plaster, sagging drywall, and flooding if you don't take quick action.

The water source typically is a roof leak or plumbing issue. The color of the dripping water can give you a clue about its source:

• Clear water: This usually indicates a plumbing issue, particularly if the ceiling is directly below a bathroom, kitchen, or another room that has a clean water source
• Grey water: Clean water that’s been contaminated by an appliance like a dishwasher or humidifier can generate grey water
• Brown water: In most cases, this is the sign of a roof leak, but it can also be caused by sewage water 

Regardless of the water's color, don’t just put a bucket under the leak and hope that it will stop on its own. Ceiling leaks are serious business that can cause injury and result in health issues. 

Fixing a small leak might be easy, but most jobs require mold removal and other hazardous tasks. To ensure the problem is completely solved, ceiling water damage needs to be diagnosed and fixed by a professional water damage restoration service.

How to Fix Ceiling Water Damage

If your ceiling is actively leaking or shows signs of water damage, call a water restoration company like SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin, TX, to investigate the issue immediately. 

Water restoration companies have the expertise and equipment to repair ceilings and take care of water cleanup. Often a ceiling leak requires emergency water restoration, so choose a company that provides 24-hour service.

Water restoration companies and mold remediation companies provide services that you can’t tackle on your own, including:

Water damage restoration and cleanup

• Inspect your ceiling to determine the leak source and the extent of damage
• Use pumps and vacuums to suck up standing water
• Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry your home
• Sanitize impacted areas to remove odors
• Repair ceilings and other areas damaged by water

Mold removal and remediation

• Find and remove the source of moisture causing mold production
• Identify areas of mold
• Remove mold and any affected materials, including ceiling plaster or drywall
• Use air filtration equipment to eliminate mold spores
• Sanitize mold-infected areas
• Repair areas of your home or business damaged by the bacteria 

Need help with water damage restoration?

SERVPRO offers residential and commercial water damage restoration throughout the Austin, TX 78730 zip code. It's also one of central Texas's premier mold remediation and fire restoration companies that offer 24/7 emergency service. If you need mold or water cleanup help in Austin, contact SERVPRO online or call 512-318-2202.

Building Damaged By Fire? See Why SERVPRO is the Most Trusted Name in Texas

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Learn how SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin, TX, helps homeowners and business owners restore their buildings after the devastating effects of fire and water damage.

Building Damaged By Fire? See Why SERVPRO is the Most Trusted Name in Texas

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are nearly a half-million structural fires in the United States annually. In Austin, Texas, approximately 600 homes and businesses are destroyed by fire each year. If a fire destroys or damages your building, it can be a devastating experience that leaves you wondering where to turn for help.

Fire restoration companies like SERVPRO, can help you navigate how to rebuild after the fire department has rolled up their hoses. SERVPRO has the expertise and experience to restore your home or business after it suffers fire damage, as well as the water damage that results from firefighting efforts. 

SERVPRO operates from a "restore first" philosophy that focuses on restoring — rather than replacing — your home or business to pre-fire condition. 

Why SERVPRO for Fire Damage Restoration?

After firefighters extinguish a structural blaze, the building typically is left with serious fire, water, and smoke damage. SERVPRO can take care of everything from reconstructing rooms and eliminating smoke odors to water cleanup and mold removal. SERVPRO can work directly with your insurance company to reduce your stress and expedite the restoration process.

Although every fire damage situation demands a customized restoration plan, SERVPRO’s typical fire damage restoration service includes:

• Inspection and assessment: SERVPRO offers emergency 24/7 response, so they will be on the scene quickly to assess the extent of the fire, water, and smoke damage
• Board-up and tarp service: To protect your home or business from further damage, SERVPRO will immediately board up windows and place a tarp over a damaged roof
• Water removal: SERVPRO will remove any excess water and start the process of drying out the structure
• Elimination of smoke and soot: Using special equipment, SERVPRO can remove smoke and soot stains from walls, ceilings, and other surfaces
• Cleaning and sanitizing: SERVPRO cleans and disinfects everything impacted by fire or water damage and uses industrial air scrubbers to remove odors
• Restoration: The final step includes big and small repairs — from replacing drywall and painting to reconstructing entire rooms — to get your home or business back to pre-fire condition

Why SERVPRO for Water Damage Restoration?

In many fire events, water can cause more damage to a building than the actual fire. Left untreated, water will lead to harmful bacterial growth. You will eventually need to hire and mold remediation companies on top of someone to repair the water damage. 

SERVPRO has years of water damage restoration experience in Austin, TX. It is one of the leading water restoration companies in central Texas to provide post-fire services, including:

• Inspect your building to determine the extent of water damage
• Use power pumps and vacuums to suck up standing water
• Use industrial fans and dehumidifiers to dry the building
• Clean, sanitize and deodorize water-damaged surfaces, furniture, and other items
• Repair areas damaged by water
• Contain and remove mold and mold-infested material
• Utilize air filtration systems to eliminate mold spores
• Restore walls and other areas damaged by mold

Need help with fire damage restoration?

Whether you’re a homeowner who has suffered the devastating effects of fire damage or a company seeking commercial water damage restoration, SERVPRO can help you get back to normal after any disaster. Locally owned and operated, SERVPRO offers service throughout the Austin, TX 78730 area. 

If you need mold removal, water cleanup, or fire damage help in Austin, contact SERVPRO online or call 512-318-2202.

Secondary Damage Occurring After Storm Damage?

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

What Secondary Damage can occur after Storm Damage?

After a storm, flooding or water event affects your property, mold is the most likely secondary damage. Damp conditions provide an ideal environment for the growth of mold spores contaminating the air you breathe and your home or business. 

If not properly dried and treated a mold infestation can quickly arise and spread throughout a home or business in 48-72 hours. Mold can develop from the moisture left on affected surfaces and items such as: wood, tile, carpeting, windows, concrete, and/or other materials/items. 

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is here to help. Restoring storm, flood and water damaged properties is the cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment and advanced training to quickly restore your property to pre-storm/flood condition, helping to prevent secondary damage.

 We’re dedicated to responding immediately. Building material and flooring are dried and treated to prevent mold and other allergens/contaminates using specialized equipment and cleaning products.

Should you ever suffer water damage due to: excessive rain, storm damage, leaky roof, flood damage, fire, or any other reason water has invaded your home or business, know you can rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin. 

Christmas Tree Fire Prevention

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Preventing Christmas Tree Fires

The NFPA says an average of 230 fires are attributed to Christmas trees each year.  Christmas tree fires are more likely to be serious due to the following contributing factors: 

• a dry tree 
• electrical lights
• abundant fuel supply (gifts) under the tree 

The most common causes are:

• electrical failures (32%)
• having the tree too close to a heat source like a fireplace or wood stove (17%)
• being too close to candles (7%).

Christmas tree fires cause an average of $18.3 million in property damage each year. Like candle fires (the number one cause of fires in the home), Christmas tree fires are more common during the holidays, with 43% occurring in December and 39% in January.

Safety tips:

• Keep live trees well watered and dispose of them before they become dry.
• Turn off tree lights before leaving the house or going to bed.
• Check lights for any shorts or other electrical issues before putting them on the tree.

If the unthinkable happens, SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin has specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Source: National Fire Protection Association and http://www.propertycasualty360.com

Severe Storm Tip - Handheld Radios

11/27/2020 (Permalink)

When you live in a coastal region, flood plain, or any area where storms occur SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin recommends you have a set of handheld 2-way radios for emergency communications for the following reasons:

1. Cell phones have drastic disadvantages during a severe storm event. Cell towers will be down and power outages may affect the service. 
2. Handheld 2-way radios do not require towers. 
3. You should be able to get continuous weather reports
4. GPS tracking in 2-way radios allow you to know where everyone is if they have it on them. 
5. You can communicate across distances if you purchase a quality set and have an exclusive channel. 

Keep an extra pack of batteries along with your handheld 2-way radios. Today's batteries have a very long shelf life. Battery life for most handheld radios will last for days.

Even if you don’t live in a coastal region, flood plain or an area where severe storms occur, a set of 2-way radios is a great addition to your emergency kit.

Storm Damage Lake Travis / NW Austin

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage from a storm or flood, a delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. 

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

Restoring storm- and flood-damaged properties is the cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment and advanced training to quickly restore your property to pre-storm condition.  At SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin, we’re dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to minimize secondary damage.

Fire Safety While Cooking

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

According to NFPA, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day, the day before Thanksgiving, Easter, and Christmas Eve.

Follow these tips to help prevent a fire while cooking:

• Be on alert!- If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• Check it Regularly- If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep flammable items away from the stovetop — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains 

If you have a cooking fire:

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• After you leave- Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number 
• If you try to fight the fire-  be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Grease Fires-  Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• Oven fire-  turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Cooking fire facts

Based on 2014-2018 annual averages:

• Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home fires and fire injuries, causing 49% of home fires that resulted in 21% of the home fire deaths and 44% of the injuries.
• Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.
• Clothing is the item first ignited in less than 1% of these fires, but clothing ignitions lead to 8% of the home cooking equipment fire deaths.
• Ranges or cooktops account for three-fifths (61%) of home cooking fire incidents.
• Unattended equipment is a factor in one-third (31%) of reported home cooking fires and over half (53%) of the associated deaths.
• Frying dominates the cooking fire problem.

Damage caused by a fire is devastating for your family and your home. It’s a stressful and confusing time, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. Our professionals will always treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with great care.

Contaminated Water after a Storm

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

There are three categories of water when talking about flooding in the home.

If you have standing water in your home after a storm, it should be considered Category 3 or “black water” and needs to be addressed immediately. 

Category 3: Black water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested,  and 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. It may also contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes.

Restoring storm- and flood-damaged properties is the cornerstone of our business. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for any emergency situations that arise. Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment and advanced training to quickly restore your property to pre-storm condition.

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO Works with Your Insurance

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO Works with Your Insurance

When the unfortunate occurs and your home or business requires professionals to perform water remediation, fire restoration, mold remediation, or bio-hazard clean up, SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is there for you.

We will work seamlessly with your insurance company. Our employees speak with insurance adjusters every day ensuring things are billed correctly,  and the job is properly documented to make certain things are going according to plan. This means less stress for you throughout the process. Being in the restoration industry for many years means no matter which property and casualty insurance you or your company uses, odds are, we have worked with them in the past. 

When you need the job done right and don't want all the stress of dealing with insurance on your own, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin. 

Why SERVPRO? Disinfection using Certified SERVPRO Cleaned

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

What is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned?

This is a defensive and proactive viral pathogen cleaning program, surpassing standard janitorial cleaning practices.  

How does it work? It’s grounded in our unique 3 C’s:

• Consult: Not all businesses are the same, so we customize a cleaning program based on the unique needs of each facility.
  
  
• Clean: When we have a customized agreed upon plan, an expert deep clean is initiated. We use proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions, always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.
  
  
• Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents a commitment by the business to the comfort and security of their employees, customers and community.

When you see the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield, owners, employees and patrons can walk in with confidence knowing the #1 choice in clean up and restoration was there.

With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin Professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

Reasons Why Fire Damage Restoration Service Providers Are Important

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Fire restoration companies have the professionals and equipment to help restore your home to its pre-fire condition. Due to the job’s delicate nature, you must ensure that the fire restoration company you choose has all the right certifications and credentials.

Fires are one of the most devastating events that can happen to your home. The damage they cause can leave you and your family stressed, confused, and unsure of the next steps to take. Fire restoration companies are there to guide you through this unfortunate crisis. 

Considerations When Choosing a Fire Restoration Company

Fire restoration companies have the professionals and equipment to help restore your home to its pre-fire condition. Due to the job’s delicate nature, you must ensure that the fire restoration company you choose has all the right certifications and credentials.

Here’s what to consider when making your choice:

Certification

A company with up-to-date certification from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration, also known as the IICRC, has met all industry-standard regulations and has well-trained fire and water damage specialists. Because the damage a fire causes greatly varies, the IICRC further includes sub-certifications that denote a company’s additional specialization areas, like structural drying and mold removal.

Sometimes, the fire damage your home sustains might call for reconstruction. Because IICRC certifications only deal with restoration services, check to see whether the fire company has the additional certifications and licenses required to reconstruct your home.

Experience

Every fire disaster is different. Ensure that the fire company you pick has the requisite experience to deal with your situation. A company’s experience is also vital in determining how the restoration project turns out.

Response and Recovery Schedule

A few minutes can be the difference between a recoverable and unrecoverable item. Ensure that the company has rapid response times. It helps if the company can advise you on the steps to take immediately after a fire breaks out. Some of these steps include:

• Placing old linens or clean towels on upholstery, carpet traffic areas, and rugs
• Limiting movement to prevent embedding soot particles into carpets and upholstery
• Changing the HVAC filter
• Emptying your refrigerator and freezer if the electricity is off

The company should also give you an estimated completion date and a full detailed schedule of the steps it will need to take to recover the damaged items.

Referrals

Asking for referrals helps you determine the kind of reputation the company has. Go through customer reviews and ask for advice from your leaseholder or insurance company for additional recommendations. Weigh a company’s reputation against the proficiency it demonstrates when implementing new restoration technologies.

It might help to keep in mind that the damage some items experience might make them unrestorable, creating disappointment and causing certain customers to write negative reviews or give displeasing referrals. An imperfect referral shouldn’t be the sole reason to discount a fire restoration company.

Why Choose SERVPRO

SERVPRO has all the requirements and qualifications you need in a fire restoration company, treating your home and possessions with great care and you with empathy and respect. Here are some reasons why you should choose SERVPRO as your desired fire restoration company:

They are Fire Damage Specialists

From fire and smoke restoration to odor control, upholstery and fabric cleaning technicians, SERVPRO ensures that it extensively trains its staff in the fire damage cleanup and restoration techniques your damaged property. 

They Can Also Handle Water Damage

SERVPRO has the expertise to handle the possible water damage your Austin, Texas, home might suffer. They also handle mold remediation for those who need it.

They Have a “Restore First” Mentality

Their priority is to implement their specialized equipment and extensive training in restoring your property, limiting the need for replacements and helping to get your property back much sooner.

Regardless of your fire damage situation, SERVPRO has the experience and expertise needed to offer the right solution to anyone in the 78730 area. Call SERVPRO at (512) 318-2202 and find out how they can help restore your Austin, TX, home.

Get Your Office The Cleaning That It Deserves: Hire A Commercial Cleaning Service Provider

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Working with a commercial cleaning service company is essentially a partnership. Picking the right company ensures that said partnership is mutually beneficial and satisfies your particular needs. Below are a few considerations that can help with your decision.

Though your company may have regular janitorial staff that’s responsible for the general cleanliness of your office, there are situations your staff might not be well equipped to handle.

If your office faces more challenging odor, grime, and moisture problems, consider opting for a commercial cleaning service. From cleaning carpets or flooring to dealing with odor, you can count on a commercial cleaning service company to keep your office looking its very best.

Hiring a Commercial Cleaning Service Company

Working with a commercial cleaning service provider is essentially a partnership. Picking the right company ensures that said partnership is mutually beneficial and satisfies your particular needs. Below are a few considerations that can help with your decision.

Certifications

Check to see whether the company has a Certified Industry Management Standard (CIMS) certification. A CIMS certification is one of the most rigorous and challenging certification levels a company can achieve. It ensures that a cleaning company meets the highest standards, follows the industry’s best practices, and has a proven track record of delivering effective, consistent, and responsive cleaning.

Insurance

While going for an uninsured company might be cheaper, it leaves you exposed. Give yourself peace of mind by choosing a cleaning company with umbrella coverage, general liability, automobile liability, and worker compensation insurance.

Experience

A company with a ton of experience is more likely to have clearly defined processes when dealing with various situations. You should also consider choosing a company that has worked with businesses and organizations similar to yours. This will give them a better idea of the services you require.

Expertise

One way to determine the level of expertise a commercial cleaning service company has is by looking at the training it offers its staff. The more comprehensive the training, the better the company’s staff will be at delivering high-quality cleaning services.

If you are looking for a school, medical, or industrial cleaning, consider going for the company that offers its staff the training designed to satisfy your facility’s unique needs.

Quality Assurances

How does the cleaning company track the quality of the work its employees deliver? Today, several cleaning companies are using janitorial software that facilitates effective inspections and problem reporting. This allows managers to resolve issues quickly and ensure that their employees deliver consistent, high-quality service.

Continuity

Ideally, you want to have a long-term cleaner that understands your requirements and consistently meets them. You can ensure you have this by hiring a commercial cleaning service company that is great at retaining its employees.

Although low-paying service jobs have high turnover percentages, some cleaning companies have implemented systems and practices that help retain their best employees.

While having the same cleaner handle your office is the ideal scenario, there will be some occasions where staff change is necessary. Should that be the case, make sure that the cleaning company will provide the new cleaners with the training that would enable them to know how to meet your specifications when providing you with cleaning services.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

While there are several choices for commercial cleaning service companies, none stand out more than SERVPRO. They offer property owners in Austin, Texas, cleaning services that handle everything from restaurant hoods to biohazard contaminants. They are fully equipped to handle water and fire restoration, mold remediation, and other types of damage, whether long-term or emergency-related.

Thanks to their products, specialized training, and approach to commercial cleaning, SERVPRO ensures that they not only meet but also surpass your office’s cleaning expectations. Their cleaning services include:

• Drapes and blinds
• Hard floors, walls, and ceilings
• Carpet and upholstery
• Vandalism
• Odor removal
• Biohazard and sewage
• HVAC and air ducts

Contact SERVPRO at (512) 318-2202 and get the commercial cleaning service your Austin, TX, business needs. They are prepared to serve everyone in the 78730 area.

Why SERVPRO - Mold Remediation using Mold Certified Technicians

11/15/2020 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO - SERVPRO uses Mold Certified Technicians for Mold Remediation

Do you see mold in your home or business? Is there an odor present that suggests mildew or is musty?

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin can perform your Mold Remediation using a Mold Certified Technician so you know the job is done right. 

Mold remediation refers to the removal, cleaning, sanitizing, demolition, or other treatment, including preventive activities, of mold or mold-contaminated matter. 

The industry is regulated to make certain persons conducting mold assessment and remediation services have proper training, are licensed, and are following minimum standards that protect the health of workers and building occupants.

If you already have an assessment or mold protocol, give SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin a call to set up a time to start the mold remediation process. 

Prevent a Turkey Fryer Fire

11/14/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know Thanksgiving Day is the peak day for home cooking fires?

Frying food increases the risk of accidental fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, deep fryer fires cause an average of 5 deaths, 60 injuries and more than $15 million in property damage each year.

When deep-frying a turkey keep safety in mind and follow these tips for safe cooking: 

• Choose the correct location and surface: Turkey fryers can easily tip over spilling hot oil across a large area. Use your turkey fryer only outdoors on a sturdy, level surface well away from things that can burn, and never in the garage. 
• Create a Safety Zone: Make sure to have a “3-foot kid- and pet-free zone” around your turkey fryer to protect against burn injuries. 
• Thaw the Turkey First: A partially frozen turkey will cause hot oil to splatter. Make sure your turkey is completely thawed before you fry it. This can take days so prepare accordingly.
• Don’t use too much oil: Determine the correct amount of oil needed by first placing the turkey in the pot with water. An overfilled cooking pot will cause oil to spill over when the turkey is placed inside. 
• Monitor the Temperature: Turkey fryers can easily overheat and start a fire. Check the temperature often with a cooking thermometer so the oil won’t overheat. Never leave the cooking turkey unattended.
• Use Protective Gear: The pot, lid and handles of a turkey fryer can get dangerously hot and cause burn injuries. Use long cooking gloves that protect hands and arms when you handle these items. 

Fire damage is especially devastating for all involved. If the unthinkable happens, SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. Our professionals will always treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with great care.

Sources: www.usfa.fema.gov, NFPA

Commercial Cleaning of your Restaurant with SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin will provide a Deep Commercial Cleaning for your Restaurant

Deep commercial cleaning is imperative for safety in your restaurant. Daily mopping keeps a floor appearing clean, but does not scrub deeply enough to remove all bacteria. Sticky floors and unwanted objects can leave unpleasant odors, or more importantly, cause employees or patrons to slip. For a truly clean floor, it is important to remove: grease, oil, gum and even mold.

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin will use industrial grade cleaning equipment, solutions, and cleaning agents to ensure all areas including counter tops, floors, and walls are both cleaned and sanitized. To ensure and maintain your restaurant’s cleanliness, this deep commercial cleaning should be completed, at minimum, every 6 months.

In addition to the restaurant's cleanliness, it will also be a great help to the restaurant's appearance to its patrons, both returning and first time. A customer’s first impression is important, and nothing makes a better impression than a restaurant that is clean, with attention to detail, well kept facilities, and a great atmosphere.

For a deep commercial cleaning of your restaurant, please call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin!

5 Common Causes of Refrigerator Leaks

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Have you seen a puddle or some dripping around the refrigerator?  Possibly some water stains, water damage ,or corrosion?  If you are having to clean up water around your refrigerator, here are some tips that may help to determine the cause. Refrigerators are heavy, so you may need an additional person to assist.

When it involves a refrigerator the 5 most common causes of leaks are:

Improperly Leveled: When water is noticed around the fridge check to see if the fridge is leveled properly. If the fridge is tipped forward even a small amount, it can prevent water from properly flowing to the drain. Proper leveling of a fridge will depend on the model, so check the owner’s manual to determine if your fridge should be completely level or slightly tipped back. Most refrigerators are supposed to be tipped back slightly. This is accomplished by using a level and adjusting the front legs to be a little higher than the back and level left to right. Additionally, proper leveling will allow the door to gently swing closed if opened 90 degrees or less.

A blocked defrost drain: This can stop the defrost-cycle water from draining properly. Over time,, ice and other debris, such as food particles may build-up and clog the drain. Flush the drain from inside using warm or hot water and remove remaining debris with a pipe cleaner.

The drain pan. Check for cracks in the drain pan to determine if it is faulty.

Filter. If your refrigerator has a filter make sure it is the correct size and installed properly. You can find the correct size in the owner's manual or by checking the model online with the manufacturer. Filters should be replaced every 6 months.

Water line. If your refrigerator has an ice maker, water dispenser, or both, there will be water lines running from the main water supply to the back of the fridge. Check the water line. If it is wet you may have a loose connection or a cracked hose. If this is the case, remember to turn off the water supply to the fridge before replacing a hose.

Whatever the cause, there may also be water or mold damage to the flooring and cabinets in your kitchen. If you experience a refrigerator leak, please contact SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin right away to treat and help to prevent any further damage.

What Happens when Grease is Poured Down the Sink?

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

When should you pour grease down your kitchen sink or any sink for that matter?  Answer: Never

Even if you flush it with hot or cold water, it can still congeal and cling to your pipes. This can lead to serious blockages and backups resulting in significant damage to your home or business.

While many people use detergent to break up grease before pouring it down the drain and that might help.... Why take the risk when there is no guarantee that it will keep the grease from sticking to your pipes?

The safest and best thing to do is pour the grease in an empty can or bucket. You then let it sit or put it in the refrigerator. When it hardens, toss it in the trash and get rid of it. Done and done. No clogged pipes or water damage to worry about from grease.

Pipe leaks and backups from clogged pipes can cause water damage to your home as well as mold issues if the water damage is not soon addressed.

That being said, when water leaks, blockages or backups cause water damage call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin. We will respond quickly. Our trained professionals use state-of-the-art water removal equipment and advanced drying techniques, documenting the drying process to make sure your property is dry and the job is done right.

Source: Farmers Online

Avoid Water Damage by Cleaning Gutters

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

On a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some serious water damage! 

When you are preparing the autumn to-do list every year, make sure cleaning those gutters are on it. If your gutters are too high, be safe and get a professional to check and clean them.

If you can, take a safe climb up to your roof next Saturday or Sunday and do a visual inspection of your gutters. If you see lots of leaves, birds’ nests, sticks, dirt, moss and whatnot up there, the gutters probably aren’t doing the job you hired them for.   

If you didn’t get to it in time and your gutters have caused a water damage incident, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin. Our trained professionals will respond quickly using state of the art equipment and techniques, while documenting the drying process to make sure your property is dry and the job is done right. “Like it never even happened.”

Six Tips to Mitigating Water Damage for Your Business

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Six Tips to Mitigating Water Damage for Your Business

1. Make sure all water shut-off valves are easily accessible and all employees know where they are located.
2. Find out if your business is located on a flood plain. If so, know what programs are available to business owners for water disasters.
3. Regularly inspect HVAC units, roof, gutters, water heaters, refrigerators, sinks, toilets, and any other area a leak may occur.
4. Keep your insurance policy up to date and know the coverage you are insured for.
5. Ensure any documents, inventory, or information/equipment critical to your business' survival is at least a few feet off the ground.
6. Time is an important factor. Be prepared. The faster the water is removed and dried out, the better off you are going to be. Please save our number to your phone so you know who to call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin.

When every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity, there’s never a convenient time for flooding or water damage to strike your business. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin responds quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO has a Six Step Process for Water Restoration.

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO has a Six Step Process for Water Restoration.

When your home or business suffers a water damage event, simply cleaning up the water and opening the windows is not sufficient to completely dry the space. This leaves your home or business vulnerable to secondary damage or mold growth.  SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin has a 6 step process we use to restore your home or business and make it, “Like it never even happened.”

Step 1 - Emergency Contact:  You call, our representative will ask questions to determine the equipment and resources needed to assist you, and dispatch a team to your home promptly.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment: We arrive quickly, do a visual inspection and tests to determine the scope of your water damage and how far moisture has travelled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction: Shortly after arrival, trained professionals begin water removal, using powerful industrial grade pumps and vacuums to quickly extract hundreds to thousands of gallons of water from the property. This assists with prevention of secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification: Our trained professionals use specialized equipment to remove the hard to access water remaining. They use room measurements, temperature and humidity to determine the optimal number of dehumidifiers and air movers needed to dry the home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing: All restorable items and structures affected by water damage are cleaned. Our trained professionals are well versed in  a number of techniques to clean and restore contents, and trained to provide sanitizing treatments and odor removal.

Step 6 - Restoration: Water restoration gets your home or business back to pre-water damage condition. This may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

When water damages your home or business call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin. Our trained professionals respond quickly, are knowledgeable, use state of the art equipment and techniques, will treat you with respect, and we work with your insurance for a stress free process.

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO Responds Faster to Disaster

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? SERVPRO responds Faster to Disaster

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin offers a 24 hour emergency service. We are a locally owned and operated franchise. We have someone in the office Monday through Friday. However, there will always be someone to answer your call after hours, on the weekends, or even holidays.  

If the event is classified as an emergency, SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin will be out right away, regardless of day or time. When a water, fire, storm, flood, bio hazard or other disaster strikes your home or business, SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin will be there to make it, “Like it never even happened.” 

When hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other disasters strike around the country, SERVPRO franchises band together, sometimes travelling thousands of miles to the disaster area to help restore homes and businesses affected. If there is a catastrophic event in your area, SERVPRO will call in "extreme teams" that will arrive in your city or town to help cover more ground and to help more home and business owners. 

If your home or business has suffered a water damage or other emergency event, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin.

Wood Floors and Water Damage

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

If you have wood floors be careful of the following:

• A gallon of water spilled on hardwood floors 
• A slow leak from a sink
• A faucet left turned on
• An overflowed toilet on ground level or above
• A broken refrigerator line
• Major flooding

Water, in both small and large quantities, can cause significant and costly damage to your wood floors and home. Even small amounts of water, if left alone can cause warping, buckling, and trigger mold and mildew growth that can ruin wood. Larger amounts can cause wall and foundation problems that must be addressed. The first step in mitigating damage done by water to a structure, including its wood floors, is to ventilate and dry the area and materials quickly, but also gently.

If SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is called immediately following a water damage event, there is a good possibility we can save your wood floors from buckling using high-powered water extractors and advanced drying techniques.

Source: Homeguides

SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin offers water damage tips to people who live near water

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

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Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin provides water damage advice for homeowners who live in areas prone to flooding.

SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin understands the stress and worry that accompanies fire or water damage and the disruption it causes. The goal is to help minimize the interruption to the client’s life and quickly make it “Like it never even happened.”

Lake Travis is no stranger to flooding. Swiftly rising floodwaters crested over twenty feet above capacity in a massive 2018 flood that is etched in the mind of the community. Some homes were completely submerged; other homes were untouched by the floodwaters. Years after the flooding, some victims are still recovering emotionally and financially. The outpouring of assistance from the community is a testimony of the compassion and grit of neighbors, friends, and strangers who truly care about people.

Here are seven water damage tips for homeowners who live in or near a flood plain where their homes or businesses are susceptible to flood damage.

• Know the flood history of the neighborhood and surrounding area.

Understanding the flood history of the area can help homeowners know how to prepare and when conditions are such that precautions should be taken. In the case of the 2018 flood on Lake Travis, one account reported that the floodwaters rose over twenty feet in a twenty-four-hour period due to very heavy rains upstream. Residents familiar with the area were able to take pre-emptive measures to protect their property. One homeowner was able to remove all his belongings in the nick of time with the help of friends and neighbors. Later, he visited his home in a boat only to find the entire house underwater, including the chimney.

• Have a flood action plan for the home.

Having a flood ready plan in place before the emergency is crucial. Many residents in the flood plain of Lake Travis during the 2018 flood had only a few hours or less to prepare for the rising waters. Some important considerations in a flood survival plan include:

• First aid kit with ample supplies
• LED flashlights and a good supply of batteries
• Battery or solar-powered radio
• Non-perishable food supply
• Important documents in sealed waterproof bags or containers
• A central meeting location should the family become separated
• Important devices such as cell phones, tablets, laptops
• Important valuables that should not be left behind in the case of a flood

More extensive information about flood preparation is available online.

• Keep an eye on the weather.

If the local area has a history of being affected by flash flooding, know when weather conditions are threatening and take the necessary precautions to protect life, property, pets, and livestock. While the Austin area has never been hit by a hurricane, the remnants of hurricanes have affected the weather.

• Take immediate action when water damage is imminent.

Action steps include:

• Move furniture and other items upstairs. If household belongings do get wet, elevate the legs off the floor with blocks or other materials if possible. The goal is to place a barrier between the furniture and the water.
• Take as many important belongings as possible and evacuate the structure while there is still time to safely travel roads.
• When fleeing floodwaters, remember that a vehicle can be washed off the road by only a few inches of swiftly flowing water.

Remember, belongings can be dried, sanitized, and restored in many cases. What cannot be restored usually can be replaced.

• Return only when it is safe.

Wait until the authorities give official permission before returning home. More floodwaters could be on the way from upstream thunderstorms. Residents could become trapped if the rising waters cut off roads. When returning, be very careful driving on roads. Watch out for potholes and washouts.

• Be careful when entering the home or other structures.

Caution should be observed when re-entering a home after severe flooding. The house may be structurally unsound. Water-logged flooring may give way underfoot, and ceilings may collapse when probed by the homeowner. If more than a day or two has elapsed since the flooding, there may be mold and mildew growth, causing health effects. Snakes, rodents, raccoons, and other wildlife may have sought refuge in the vacant home during and after the flood.

Be aware of the possibility of electrocution if power is available in the home. Standing water poses both a slip-and-fall hazard and an electrical hazard. Electrocution can occur in a flooded basement, even if the power is off. If a neighbor is using a generator in an unsafe manner, the electricity can flow back into the power grid and shock other people in other homes. Central Texas, including the Austin area, boasts relatively few basements. However, the number of basements in the area is sufficient to justify cautioning homeowners who have basements not to enter a flooded basement until the power is completely and safely off.

• Call in a water damage restoration specialist as soon as possible.

Promptly beginning the water damage restoration process helps prevent advanced secondary damage, which may include structural damage and mold infestation. When facing water and flood damage in Lake Travis and the greater Austin area, the best and safest course of action is to call in the water and flood damage specialists from SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin. Knowledgeable and experienced technicians will thoroughly inspect and assess the damage and provide a free estimate of the restoration and repair project. The staff will walk clients through the insurance claims process from the very start of the project. Flood damage mitigation requires training, experience, advanced technology, and commercial-grade equipment, along with the required protective gear to assure the safety of the technicians.

SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after fire, smoke, or water damage. Mold and mildew mitigation is also on the menu of services. No damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin.

For more information about water and flood damage restoration, contact the office by phone at (512) 318-2202.

Home Fires Caused by Dryers and Washing Machines

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Home Fires Caused by Dryers and Washing Machines

Clothes dryer fires happen more often than one might think, accounting for 16,800 home structure fires in 2010 and doing more than $236 million in property damage according to the National Fire Protection Association. The most frequent causes of fires in dryers are lint/dust (29%) and clothing (28%). In washers, they are wire or cable insulation (26%), the appliance housing (21%) or the drive belt (15%).

Dryers were involved in 92% of the Washer/Dryer fires; the risk of fire was basically the same for both gas and electric-powered dryers.

Safety tips:

• Clean the lint screen frequently and don’t run the dryer without it.
• For gas and propane dryers, make sure there aren’t any leaks in the lines.
• Vent the dryer to the outside of the house and ensure nothing blocks the vent pipe.
• Clean the vent pipe and the area where the screen is housed.
• Keep the area around the dryer free of combustible materials.

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin has specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. Our professionals will always treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with great care. 

Source: National Fire Protection Association and http://www.propertycasualty360.com

Restoring Commercial Properties after a Water Damage Event

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties are complex and require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns. Understanding every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity, we strive to quickly and fully restore the damaged area while working within any budgetary constraints.  When an emergency situation arises in your business, give SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Austin-Area Cleaning Company Explains How to Deal With Skunk Odor

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

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Summary: SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin has the advanced cleaning technology to neutralize the worst odors, including skunk spray.

SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin offers an advanced cleaning technology that does more than mask foul odors. The cutting-edge odor removal technology neutralizes odors and eliminates them, which is an essential service in light of the large skunk population in Texas.

Skunk odor removal can be challenging. Occasionally skunks will spray the family pet, which then may spread the noxious oil through the home in its attempts to escape the overpowering odor. Skunks that have taken up residence in a crawl space may, on occasion, spray the area. If a skunk sprays next to a home, the HVAC system or attic fan may pick up the scent and spread it throughout the house. In any of these cases or other cases, a call to SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin is the best first step to eliminating the odor.

Skunk Facts

Texas boasts five species of skunk, more than any other state. These include the striped skunk, the hog-nosed skunk, the hooded skunk, and the elusive Eastern and Western spotted skunks. Skunks were once thought to be in the weasel family, but DNA tests proved otherwise. The skunk is most closely related to the Asian Stink Badger. That makes sense. (No pun intended!)

Diet: Skunks eat grasshoppers, bees, beetles, beetle larvae, and crickets. During winter, skunks will scavenge for nuts, seeds, pet food, and open garbage cans. If extremely hungry, skunks will consume mice, rats, and chicken eggs.

Nesting: Skunks roam at night, like their privacy, and are homebodies. They will homestead where there is ample food, water, and shelter. Dark, protected areas such as crawl spaces, basements, and under decks and porches are favorite living quarters.

Property Damage: Skunks are equipped with efficient digging tools — their front claws, which enable them to tunnel under sheds, buildings, decks, and concrete foundations, compromising the structural integrity of homes and businesses. These burrows also give skunks access to the interior of a home or business.

Skunk Prevention: In order to be less attractive to skunks, the yard should be neat and clean. Trimming overgrown shrubbery eliminates potential hiding places for skunks. Removing yard debris, including wood and rocks, reduces insects and other skunk food sources. Garbage cans should have tight-fitting lids to keep skunks from foraging in the trash, and pet food should be discarded or moved inside before sunset.

Odor Chemistry and Mechanics: Skunks will spray when started or when threatened by predators. The intensely pungent spray is composed of thiol, an oily substance of mainly sulfur and hydrogen. A skunk can spray multiple bursts either in a mist or a fine stream that can accurately hit a target over fifteen feet away. The nonlethal spray may cause temporary blindness, nausea, or vomiting in humans or pets. Thankfully, skunks are not fond of their own odor, so they either flee or engage in maneuvers that hopefully cause the predators to flee.

Rabies Warning: Skunks, raccoons, and foxes are high-risk carriers of rabies. A skunk is very near-sighted and may come very close to a pet or human before taking any evasive action. Remember, skunks are wild animals, even though they may be living under the deck or shed or in the crawl space.

Signs of a Skunk Infestation: Tunnels or burrows, cone-shaped holes in the yard or garden, disappearing pet food when the pets are in the house and ripped bags in the garbage cans may indicate a skunk problem. One sure sign of a skunk infestation is the frequent presence of the sharp skunk smell.

The SERVPRO Solution: Advanced Cleaning Technology

Neutralizing the odor from skunk spray requires the SERVPRO advanced cleaning technology.  Not only is skunk odor extremely difficult to remove, but the toxic spray can also damage furniture, flooring, and paint. Outdoor furniture is vulnerable to contamination if a skunk has found a home under the deck or nearby shed.

What to Do When There Is a Skunk Odor Problem

Step 1: Call SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin to start the process of skunk deodorization.

Step 2: Contact the insurance company. Skunk deodorization services may be covered by insurance. Call SERVPRO first to assist with the call when talking with the insurance company to have the damage partially and potentially fully covered if the decision is made to file a claim.

Step 3: Remove the source of the smell — the skunk and its family. Skunk removal is not a DIY project. Skunks carry many diseases, including rabies. The spray is not only noxious but also toxic. Skunks bite and scratch. Secure the services of a reputable animal control specialists. They can quickly, safely, and humanely remove the offensive creatures.

Step 4: Inspect and assess the situation to determine what needs to be cleaned, including furniture, carpet, clothing, or other household items. The spray oils can cover multiple surfaces, and they will all typically need to be cleaned. Also, if the insulation in a crawl space has been affected, it may need to be replaced.

Step 5: Leave the home during the cleaning process. If SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin takes on the challenge of eliminating skunk odor, the homeowner and other occupants can expect to be out of the house for a short period while deodorization is in progress. If the homeowners are filing an insurance claim, the company may cover food and lodging while the client is displaced.

Step 6: Apply the SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin advanced technology cleaning process. This proven cleaning technology for deodorization eliminates the problem at its source. The old process took several days, but the new process with new technology can resolve the skunk odor issue much quicker, even as soon as one day in some situations.

Step 7: SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin will properly ventilate the home to ensure the homeowner and family return to a clean, safe environment.

To learn more about property damage restoration including odor removal, contact the office by calling (512) 318-2202.

How SERVPRO Restores Personal Belongings That Have Been Damaged by Severe Weather

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

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Summary: SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin explains the processes used to restore personal belongings damaged in a storm.

The team of professionals at SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin embraces the reality that a home is more than sheetrock and shingles or carpet and countertops. A family's clothing, keepsakes, heirlooms, furniture, and other belongings contribute to the transformation of a house into a home. When these belongings are damaged, the restoration team gives every item the attentive and gentle care it deserves.

Personal Belongings and Storm Damage

SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin specializes in contents restoration for belongings damaged in a storm, such as a tornado or water damage disaster. Clients save money and preserve invaluable, irreplaceable heirlooms due to SERVPRO's expertise and "restore" versus "replace" approach to damaged belongings. Damaged contents undergo a pretest screening to determine what items can be adequately restored to their pre-damage condition.

SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin employs several methods for cleaning contents, including dry cleaning, wet cleaning, spray and wipe, foam cleaning for delicate upholstery fabrics, abrasive cleaning, and immersion cleaning. The solutions used in these processes are safe for the items and the technicians.

Evacuating a Damaged Home: Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

When a home or business receives extensive damage and needs large-scale restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin has the means to carry out an organized, efficient evacuation of the affected portion of the structure. Smaller, less equipped companies are not able to execute projects of this magnitude.

Emptying the home of most or all of its contents can accelerate the restoration and remodeling process. The construction and remodeling team has ample room to work without fear of damaging furniture or other household items. The contents are stored in a secure, dry area until the remodeling process is complete.

Upon completion, SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin works with the client to coordinate returning the contents according to the location. Insurance coverage may have a bearing on the moving services offered.

Electronic Cleanup

Electronic devices present a unique set of challenges and hazards when subjected to water damage. Electrical devices that show signs of exposure to moisture or are confirmed or suspected of having water damage should not be plugged into a receptacle or turned on for operation if they are battery operated. The experts at SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin can coordinate the restoration of electronics, including TVs, computers, and other electronics.

A successful restoration of an electronic device requires immediate action to prevent further water or moisture damage. The first step in the restoration process for electronics is to clean the outside of the device, which halts further damage such as corrosion.  Clients can be confident their damaged electronics are well taken care of. Only a qualified electronics technician cleans and inspects damaged electronics. Smaller property damage restoration companies or cleaning companies that perform fire, water, and storm damage restoration as a secondary offering cannot provide large scale move-in/move-out service or the more technical electronics repair and restoration.

Document/Photograph Drying

Water-damaged documents such as photographs and old documents require extreme caution. Regrettably, some documents cannot be restored. SERVPRO of Lake Travis/ NW Austin can save many documents and help minimize additional damage using air-drying, dehumidification, freezer drying, vacuum freeze drying, and vacuum thermal drying.

Contents Claim Inventory Service

SERVPRO's Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) provides a detailed, room-by-room, accurate inventory of a client's belongings, including digital images and, where called for, barcoding. The Contents Claim Inventory Service is comprehensive and includes a preloss list and valuation of contents, as well as a detailed and accurate report. The service provides better information that allows for a quicker settlement of claims. The highly-trained SERVPRO professionals assist the client with the burden of proof for claims. The client enjoys peace of mind when they need it most.

A significant storm damage incident that impacts every facet of home life, including the most precious keepsakes, heirlooms, and photographs, can be emotionally distressing. Trusting storm damage restoration to the professionals at SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin is the right decision. The skilled, experienced, and certified technicians give tender care to keepsakes, heirlooms, and antiques that are more valuable than gold.

To learn more about how furniture, clothing, photos, important legal documents, artwork, and other personal belongings can be restored after fire, water, and storm damage, visit the SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin website at https://www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com. Contact the office by phone at (512) 318-2202.

How Clogged Gutters Can Be a Cause of Serious Water Damage

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

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Summary: SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin urges homeowners to keep their gutters clean to prevent water damage.

Gutters and downspouts are designed to capture roof water and direct it away from the home. When the gutters and downspouts fail to perform as designed, the resulting water damage spells trouble for the homeowner, as the following scenario illustrates.

Water Damage Scenario: Clogged Gutters Flood a Basement

The water stain on the ceiling in the bedroom unsettled the elderly couple. Thunderstorms and high winds awakened them several times during the night, so they were not surprised to discover signs of water damage. However, the water damage was not limited to the bedroom. Water had flowed into the basement through the window wells, and an inch or more of water covered the basement floor. Because an inch of water in a 1500 square foot basement is over 900 gallons of water, the situation required much more than a DIY solution. The older couple understood the severity of the problem, so they called in the local SERVPRO water damage restoration specialist.

The team of professional technicians was on the scene in about an hour. The inspection and assessment revealed that the gutters were clogged along the side of the home where the water damage occurred. Water from the clogged gutters seeped into the eaves, damaging the bedroom ceiling, walls, and carpet. Water cascading out of the gutters had seeped into the foundation or poured through the basement window wells, flooding the basement. Both downspout extensions were disconnected. Hundreds of gallons of water had been deposited next to the foundation.

Stopping the water from entering the structure was a relatively easy task. The team would clean the gutters of all debris, re-attach the extensions to the downspouts, and clean out and cover the basement window wells. They would also make sure the ground sloped away from the home at an angle that could divert excessive amounts of water.

Once the inspection and assessment were completed and the homeowner approved the estimate, the damage restoration began. Being able to immediately start the cleanup process limited any further water damage, and removing the water and eliminating the moisture reduced the likelihood of mold issues arising.

Defective Downspouts

The above scenario highlights the importance of regularly cleaning the gutters and checking the downspouts. Gutter downspouts direct water away from the home and its foundation. Usually made of black corrugated pipe, downspout extensions should extend about six feet out from the foundation and drain away from the house, generally towards the street or backyard. If the downspouts are broken or missing or if the extensions become detached from the downspouts, water will collect next to the house and can gradually seep into the basement, pour in through cracks in the foundation, or drain into the basement through window wells or foundation vents.

Downspouts can become damaged and extension pipes can become disconnected due to a variety of causes.

1. A riding lawn mower can snag a downspout extension, damaging the pipe or disconnecting it from the downspout. If the pipe is secured to the downspout with screws or a bracket, the entire downspout can be ripped from the side of the home. The disconnected extension may not be discovered until the signs of water damage appear.
2. Water pressure from a heavy flow from the gutters and downspout can sometimes disconnect a downspout extension.
3. When shrubs and bushes are being pruned or shaped, the extension can be accidentally disconnected.
4. Dogs have been known to damage or disconnect the black corrugated extension pipe.

Clogged Gutters

Gutters, also known as eavestroughs, are essential to diverting water away from the home to keep the basement dry. Gutters on a house with nearby trees may become clogged with fallen leaves, twigs, seedpods, and other debris during the fall season or after a heavy thunderstorm or windstorm. This debris can impede water flow through the gutters and downspouts. Regular gutter cleaning should be a part of routine home maintenance to prevent any problems with water collecting on the roof, overflowing the gutters, and potentially flooding the crawl space, basement, or the interior walls and ceilings.

Water overflowing from gutters can cascade down the sides of the home where it can pool and seep into the basement. About fifteen minutes after a storm, the homeowner can go out and check to see if the gutters are directing water away from the home and not overflowing.

Ladder Safety When Cleaning Gutters

Some homes may require the assistance of an expert to safely remove all debris from the roof and gutters. According to Industrial Safety and Health News, there are 500,000 falls from ladders annually; 97 percent occur at home or on farms. SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin urges homeowners to observe extreme caution when cleaning gutters.

Electrocution is also a potential hazard when climbing a ladder to clean the gutters. Touching a power line with any part of the body, the ladder, or a metal tool can cause serious injury or death. Watch out for wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets when working near the edge of the home with a ladder. Bees often build nests under the eaves of the house, on gutters, in the shrubs, or in the ground in the case of yellow jackets. A sudden swarm of bees may result in a fall off a ladder. Also, some people are highly allergic to bee stings, and they may need immediate medical attention if they are stung.

Conclusion

The homeowner must keep a vigilant eye on the gutters, downspouts, and downspout extensions to ensure that water is being diverted away from the foundation and not causing damage. Cleaning out the gutters and checking the condition of the downspouts and the extensions should be a part of every homeowner’s regular home maintenance schedule. If water damage does occur, turn to the professionals at SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin for help.

For more information about water damage restoration and repair, visit the SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin at https://www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com. Contact the office by phone at (512) 318-2202.

Lake Travis/NW Austin Fire and Water Damage Restoration Company Promotes Fireworks Safety

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

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Summary: SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin urges people to be careful when using fireworks.

Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks displays are an American tradition. Residents of NW Austin, Lake Travis, and the surrounding areas enjoy this tradition. SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin, a fire and water damage restoration specialist, urges people to be careful when shooting off fireworks on Independence Day. The first use of fireworks in a July 4th celebration was in Boston, MA, in 1777. Founding father, John Adams said he wanted the anniversary of independence to be remembered for years with such things as “bonfires” and “illuminations.” Since the first July 4th fireworks display occurred during the Revolutionary War, some historians think the fireworks were intended as a “morale booster.” These early celebrations would have also included the firing of guns and cannons, adding to the explosive nature of the festivities.

Fireworks Can Be Dangerous

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

How to Stay Safe When Using Fireworks

Fireworks are fun, but they also can be dangerous. The Texas Department of Insurance offers these fireworks safety tips to know how to have fun with fireworks and stay safe. 1. Know and follow local laws. Understand the local law and contact the local fire officials if there are any questions. Some places allow only certain types of fireworks, but most areas do not allow fireworks within city limits or during burn bans. 2. Find out if a permit is required. Organizers will need a permit from the local fire department if they are holding a fireworks event for a group of fifty or greater. 3. Hire licensed professionals. Make sure that the people hired to put on a group fireworks display have a pyrotechnic operator’s license that is valid in Texas. Contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office by phone at 1-800-578-4677 or by email at Fire.Marshal@tdi.texas.gov to find out if the individual or individuals have a Texas license. 4. Confirm that fireworks are legal in the area in question. Anyone can use fireworks any day of the year as long as the fireworks are not banned in the area where they are being used. However, fireworks can only be sold at certain times of the year. This sales period typically falls during the week or so leading up to a major holiday. Besides the Fourth of July and the New Year’s season, Texas counties can also choose to include Texas Independence Day (March 2nd), San Jacinto Day (April 21st), Cinco de Mayo (May 5th), and Memorial Day. 5. Be safe! It is essential to follow safety practices whenever fireworks are used. Children should not play with fireworks, and an adult or adults should always be vigilant whenever children are near fireworks. In addition, never consume alcohol when setting off fireworks. Follow the instructions on the firework, and only use the explosive in the way it is intended to be used. The fireworks set up should not be near brush, dry grass, flammable materials, or flammable substances. Never aim fireworks at a house, structure, person, or animal. In case of emergencies, keep a bucket of water, garden hose, or other water sources nearby. SERVPRO provides these fireworks safety tips as a public service to the residents of Lake Travis/NW Austin in the hopes that everyone will have an enjoyable, safe, and patriotic Fourth of July.

Fire and Water Damage Restoration Process

When a home or business is dealing with the aftermath of a fire, the damage that it can cause to the property structure and valuable possessions can be extremely devastating. Here at SERVPRO, the team understands the stress, confusion, and emotions that are present when dealing with this kind of ordeal. The SERVPRO technicians are highly skilled and certified, as well as equipped with fire damage restoration equipment to take special care of the client’s property and possessions. The SERVPRO team will be there with the customer every step along the way to explain the process to help get them through this stressful time. After the fire trucks leave, the home or business likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore a home to its pre-fire condition. Every fire damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate the process for the typical fire damage emergency. Step 1: Emergency Contact. The restoration process begins when a customer calls SERVPRO. A representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help SERVPRO respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment. SERVPRO technicians carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of the property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service. Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the team can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (If Water Damage Is Present). The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. SERVPRO technicians then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces. Specialized equipment and techniques are used to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing. Skilled technicians clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. SERVPRO employs a variety of cleaning techniques to restore belongings to pre-fire conditions. The SERVPRO specialists are also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment. Step 7: Restoration. Restoration is the final step—getting a home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. Conclusion. SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin hopes that everyone’s Fourth of July celebration will be safe, enjoyable, and fire-free. The team of fire and water damage experts is proud to serve Lake Travis, Briarcliff, and NW Austin. To learn more about fire and water damage restoration, visit the SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin at https://www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com. Contact a SERVPRO representative by phone at (512) 318-2202.

Austin-Area Water Damage Specialists Handle HVAC Leaks

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

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Summary: SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin provides emergency water damage restoration when the HVAC system leaks.

At 63.75 miles long and having over 271 miles of shoreline, Lake Travis is the most commercially active reservoir in Texas. Its status as a non-Corps of Engineers lake allows for private lakeside property. Crystal clear blue waters and proximity to Austin make Lake Travis one of the most desirable places in Texas to work, live, or visit. Lake-related businesses and recreational activities abound.

Of the many activities available at Lake Travis, the retired couple enjoyed watching the sunset at their favorite restaurant, which overlooked the lake. Today was very special because their grandkids were with them. Boating, skiing, kayaking, and swimming at the waterpark were topped off with a delicious meal and an awe-inspiring sunset. Bob and Linda were so glad they had retired to the Austin area. The children and grandchildren only lived a few hours away, and when they came to visit, there was always something to do at the lake.

All week long, the HVAC system had been working overtime to keep the lakehouse cool for the guests. Bob noticed that the system never seemed to take a rest.

That week, there were unusual occurrences around the house. The grandchild with allergies had mentioned a musty smell in the guest bedroom. The carpet outside the bathroom door was constantly wet, but everyone thought it was because of the traffic to and from the bathroom for showers and baths. While gathered around the kitchen table for a hearty breakfast before the grandkids headed home, one of the grandchildren mentioned that her sleeping bag was wet when she awoke that morning. It looked like water had been dripping from the light fixture in the bedroom.

Bob immediately went upstairs to investigate. When he saw the evidence, he knew it had to be the HVAC unit in the attic. An HVAC technician confirmed Bob’s suspicions. The drain pan was clogged with mold and algae, the coils needed cleaning, and the filter urgently needed to be changed. The excessive summer heat and the extra houseguests had overwhelmed the system's compromised ability to remove the water in the drain pan. Water had been leaking out of the pan for almost a week. According to the HVAC technician, twenty or more gallons per day may have leaked from the system.

The cleanup job was too big for Bob and Linda to handle alone. They needed water damage specialists who would respond on a weekend and stay until the situation was stabilized. What they needed was emergency 24/7 service and a disaster response team with the training and equipment to take care of the problem as soon as possible. Fortunately for Bob and Linda, it took only one phone call.

The Water Damage Restoration Process

When a home or commercial property has water damage from flooding or leaks, SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin has the expertise and equipment to properly restore the property. Experienced technicians and a scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup enable proper drying and restoration of a property with water damage. Every water damage event is different and requires a unique solution, but the general process remains the same.

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when a call is placed to SERVPRO of Travis Lake/NW Austin. The representative guides the home or commercial property owner through the crisis and may ask several questions to help the SERVPRO team better understand the equipment and resources needed for the job.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

The scope of the water damage is determined at this stage. To ensure complete restoration, the water damage specialist inspects and tests to understand the extent of the damage and how far the moisture has traveled.

Step 3 - Water Removal and Water Extraction

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most of the water. Powerful pumps and vacuum units are used to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from the home or commercial building, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

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

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

All of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water are cleaned. The technicians are adept at cleaning contents using several proven techniques. The SERVPRO team is trained to provide sanitizing treatments, remove odors, and deodorize the property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration is the process of restoring the home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. SERVPRO can handle the rebuild process and coordinate the entire project with the insurance company, eliminating confusion and stress while bringing peace of mind.

SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage incident and the disruption it causes to the home or business. The goal is to minimize the interruption and quickly make the damaged area look "Like it never even happened." The team specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after water, fire, or smoke damage but can also mitigate mold and mildew from a home or business. No damage is too large or too small. SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin can handle the reconstruction from the loss, making them the local one-stop-shop.

For more information about water damage restoration, visit the SERVPRO of Travis Lake/NW Austin website at https://www.SERVPROlaketravisnwaustin.com. To speak with a SERVPRO representative, call (512) 318-2202.