Can Flooring be saved after a flood?

1/15/2022 (Permalink)

After a flood, many homeowners and property managers wonder if their carpet and pad can be saved.  The answer is, it depends.  Factors such as the age and quality of the carpet and pad, as well as the type of installation used, have to be taken into consideration. However, the type of floodwater that caused the damage is most important when determining whether or not carpet and padding can be salvaged.

There are 3 water categories that determine whether the carpet and padding can be restored to their pre-disaster condition:

• Category 1 (clean water): non-contaminated water that may come from a broken pipe, sink, etc. After the water has been extracted, carpets and pads can be dried and restored in place.
• Category 2 (gray water): dirty water that has been released by sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers, etc. The carpet can usually be restored if it has been wet for less than 48 hours. The pad is replaced in most cases.
• Category 3 (black water): water containing dangerous contaminants that may originate from sewage and toilet backflows as well as from floods caused by natural disasters. To protect your family’s health, carpets and pads should be removed, discarded and replaced.

Since every water damage situation is different, you cannot know for sure if or when your carpet and pad can be salvaged until you have a professional restoration company inspect the situation.

The faster you report the disaster, the lower the costs will be. If you’re dealing with a flooding problem, contact  SERVPRO of Laurel today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist at 601-425-0119.

SERVPRO of Laurel 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel provides 24 Hour Fire & Water Damage Restoration Service.

SERVPRO of LAUREL is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (601)425-0119

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. SERVPRO of LAUREL has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• 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)?

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of LAUREL specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

How a Commercial Fire Damage Company Will Restore Your Business.

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

How a Commercial Fire Damage Company Will Restore Your Business

Were you a recent victim of a fire in your home or a fire in your business? Are you dealing with a horrible smoke smell? Are you trying to clean up smoke damage and soot damage? Do not try to deal with the commercial fire damage and the fire cleanup process by yourself. You should not even enter your home or your business before calling a fire restoration company. There may be safety hazards. The structure may cave in at any moment, and there may be broken shards of glass that can hurt you. The smoke smell can also be dangerous.

It is imperative that you call a professional restoration company as soon as you possibly can. They will do an assessment of your burnt home and take in all of the fire damage. They will come up with a plan of action for the restoration of your home and for dealing with the commercial fire damage.

The first thing the restoration company will do is board up the holes in your walls and your broken windows. You need to board up the holes before you take care of the water damage, or else more water may enter your home through those holes when it rains, thus undoing your work. A professional restoration company will use tarps or wood boards to board up those holes. The holes that need boarding up include the holes caused by the fire and the holes caused by the firefighters; they often make holes to make sure that the fire is not still burning behind the wall. Boarding up the holes is the first step of dealing with commercial fire damage.

After doing that, the fire damage restoration service will start removing the water from your home. Water that was used to put out the fire in your home or the fire in your business can cause serious damage. It can soak your furniture and your walls. You will need flood pumps to pump out the water. You will need special tools to dry out your walls, your furniture, and your carpets. A professional fire damage restoration service has the tools that are necessary to deal with commercial fire damage.

The next step in dealing with the fire damage is dealing with the smoke damage, also referred to as the soot damage. Your walls will likely be blackened. They will need to be cleaned from all the soot that covers them. They will be grayed by the smoke, and you will need to clean that up as well, or else the smoke smell will not go away. You will need to repaint your walls and ceiling so that you totally remove the trace of the soot damage and smoke damage. You should probably also add new wallpaper. The good news is that a fire cleanup company will do all of this and remove the smoke smell for you in a professional and timely manner.

The next step in dealing with the fire damage, after dealing with the smoke damage and soot damage, will be repairing the structure of your home. The fire cleanup company will need to repair the walls and the ceilings, as well as the floors, of your home. It is likely that they were badly damaged. They may not be safe anymore. The fire cleanup company can replace weakened walls and beams. They can turn your home or business into a beautiful place that is safe again after the fire in your home or the fire in your business. They can turn your home into a beautiful place that you love living in again.

The fire damage restoration company will deal with other aspects of fire damage as well. They will make sure your plumbing service is working after the fire in your home or the fire in your business. They will make sure that your electrical system is working. They will help you repair and replace any appliances that may have been damaged. They will make sure your sprinkler system is working and will be ready in case anything goes wrong. The fire damage restoration service will not leave until you are satisfied.
Call us at 601-425-0119 for more information on fire damage.

The costly affects of a fire in your home.

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Fire is one of our most valuable resources.  We use it to cook our food, heat our homes, power our world and so much more.  However, when it comes to our homes, fire can also be one of our worst enemies.  Each year, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), nearly 358,300 home-owners experience a fire.  Nearly, $10.3 billion in property damage and 3,280 deaths were due to residential fires in 2015 alone.  Residential fires accounted for three-quarters of all structure fires during 2015.  At SERVPRO of Laurel, we have seen first-hand the devastation that fire can cause.  We take pride in helping customers get their lives back on track in the wake of a disaster; but our wish is that they never go through that experience.  Knowledge is power when it comes to prevention and we want to share information that can help you protect your home.  Cooking is the leading cause of residential fires followed by home heating.  When cooking be sure to never leave anything on or near the stove and use caution when frying.  If you have central heating, make sure to have ducts cleaned regularly to prevent buildup and reduce the chance of fire. Dryer vents should also be cleaned annually.  Clothes dryers cause an estimated 2,900 fires each year, causing over $35 million in property losses. Call us today at (601)425-0119 to schedule your HVAC or dryer vent cleaning and protect your home.

Commercial Restoration Services

10/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

When it comes to commercial cleaning and restoration services, SERVPRO is a leader in the industry. Available 24 hours a day and seven days a week, SERVPRO of Laurel responds quickly to your business’s fire, water, and mold damage emergencies.

Commercial Restoration Services

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm and Major Events
• Disaster Recovery Team

For Emergency Services, Call 24/7 –

(601)425-0119

In addition to Commercial Restoration Services, SERVPRO of Laurel offers Commercial Cleaning Services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing bio-hazard contaminants. We have the specialized equipment, various products, and skilled cleaning methods to make your business look its very best. 

Commercial Cleaning Services

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Bio-hazard and Sewage
• Post-Construction Clean
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

When the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Laurel has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of Laurel specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 601-425-0119

Do You Have Dirty Ducts?

10/2/2021 (Permalink)

Improve your indoor air quality with duct cleaning.

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

A routine part of your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary.

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

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

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

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

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals today.

Source: Residential Newsline Volume 17 Issue 4

The reasons to call SERVPRO of Laurel after a flood

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

Here’s Why You Should Seek Professional Help After A Flood

Water is one of the most long-term destructive substance in homes and business premises. Excess and unwanted moisture or flooding could cause the deterioration of personal property and even the building's structure. Therefore, it is imperative to seek water damage restoration services from qualified professionals before the water in home and water in business causes severe losses.

It is necessary to call a restoration company as soon as there is excess moisture in home and water in business premises or when there is flood damage. Water cleanup services serve the purpose of mitigating the harmful effects of water, especially within the first 48 hours. Whether the water damage looks severe or not, a quick cleanup can produce excellent results.

If not addressed in the quickest time possible, excess water in home or water in business can cause expensive damage to the home structures and furniture. More so, it can promote electrical hazards and also lead to the growth and spread of mold.

Water in business and water in home may be as a result of clogged toilets, overflowing washing machines, pipe break, plumbing leaks, leaky roofs, supply line break among other causes. Fortunately, home and business owners can access a professional restoration company as quick as possible. The mitigation process involves the use of the industry’s best techniques handled by qualified personnel to free home and business premises of flood damage and water damage.

The effects of a flooded home can quickly jump from bad to irreparable. If not catered for in the shortest time possible, a flooded home may result to secondary damages that are accompanied by costly repairs. Water mitigation is a way of water damage restoration which stops water from spreading. If the water spreads, it can cause severe damage to the structures in the premises. A quick mitigation by skilled professionals prevents the spread, reducing the water damage costs.

The water cleanup process is very scientific, and for the professionals to determine if the business or home structures should be restored or replaced, they evaluate the following:
• The degree of contamination
• The amount of property damage, and
• The replacement costs versus the restoration costs

The water in home and businesses if not quickly dealt with could cause massive business interruption and financial burdens. Mold is also a major problem caused by excess moisture. To prevent mold and mildew from developing, it is imperative to get a fast response from the professional water restoration company. These professionals ensure to apply the safest removal methods so that the affected business and home premises are repaired promptly and professionally.

Both pipe breaks and supply line breaks are a major cause of a flooded home. And if the drying is not done as is required, there is a major risk for the property to be prone to flood damage. Professional flood damage restoration firms help homeowners to get the proof of damage as well as a list of the required repairs. If drying is done through the proper methods, a flooded home can be restored to its former state.

Each water and flood damage scenario is different, and each needs a unique solution. Professionals are well aware of how to carry out the necessary process whether the damage is as a result of pipe breaks, plumbing leaks, and supply line break. However, the general process involves the following steps:
• Emergency contact
• Inspection and damage assessment
• Water removal
• Drying and dehumidification
• Cleaning and sanitizing, and
• Restoration

The damage caused by water has many sources, from natural disasters to supply line break, and more often than not pipe break. Despite the source, Restoration Company professionals can carry out the water mitigation and drying process as is expected. Moreover, there are many benefits associated with the water cleanup process.

Water cleanup benefits
1. Rapid restoration
2. Preventing mildew and mold
3. Important details are addressed
4. There is professional input
5. Insurance issues are handled.
CALL- 601-425-0119 for more information on water damage.

Mold in your Home or Business? Call SERVPRO

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

Mold in a bathroom shower.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce health effects.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold issues.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (601) 425-0119

The costly affects of a fire in your home.

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

Fire is one of our most valuable resources.  We use it to cook our food, heat our homes, power our world and so much more.  However, when it comes to our homes, fire can also be one of our worst enemies.  Each year, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), nearly 358,300 home-owners experience a fire.  Nearly, $10.3 billion in property damage and 3,280 deaths were due to residential fires in 2015 alone.  Residential fires accounted for three-quarters of all structure fires during 2015.  At SERVPRO of Laurel, we have seen first-hand the devastation that fire can cause.  We take pride in helping customers get their lives back on track in the wake of a disaster; but our wish is that they never go through that experience.  Knowledge is power when it comes to prevention and we want to share information that can help you protect your home.  Cooking is the leading cause of residential fires followed by home heating.  When cooking be sure to never leave anything on or near the stove and use caution when frying.  If you have central heating, make sure to have ducts cleaned regularly to prevent buildup and reduce the chance of fire. Dryer vents should also be cleaned annually.  Clothes dryers cause an estimated 2,900 fires each year, causing over $35 million in property losses. Call us today at (601)425-0119 to schedule your HVAC or dryer vent cleaning and protect your home.

Flooding Facts

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel is here to help! 601-425-0119

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. FEMA reports, in the last 8 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. As most of us have recently experienced, nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas. 

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA:

• Flash floods can bring walls of water from 10 to 20 feet high.
• Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.
• Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires. 
• A 2,000 square foot home undergoing 12 feet of water damage could cost more than $50,000 to repair.

Here are a few supplies you need to prepare for a flood:

• Stock up on First Aid items
• Non-perishable foods
• Three gallons of water per person for 3 days
• Battery operated radio for weather reports
• Extra batteries
• Personal hygiene necessities

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of Laurel specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 601-425-0119

Can Flooring be saved after a flood?

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

After a flood, many homeowners and property managers wonder if their carpet and pad can be saved.  The answer is, it depends.  Factors such as the age and quality of the carpet and pad, as well as the type of installation used, have to be taken into consideration. However, the type of floodwater that caused the damage is most important when determining whether or not carpet and padding can be salvaged.

There are 3 water categories that determine whether the carpet and padding can be restored to their pre-disaster condition:

• Category 1 (clean water): non-contaminated water that may come from a broken pipe, sink, etc. After the water has been extracted, carpets and pads can be dried and restored in place.
• Category 2 (gray water): dirty water that has been released by sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers, etc. The carpet can usually be restored if it has been wet for less than 48 hours. The pad is replaced in most cases.
• Category 3 (black water): water containing dangerous contaminants that may originate from sewage and toilet backflows as well as from floods caused by natural disasters. To protect your family’s health, carpets and pads should be removed, discarded and replaced.

Since every water damage situation is different, you cannot know for sure if or when your carpet and pad can be salvaged until you have a professional restoration company inspect the situation.

The faster you report the disaster, the lower the costs will be. If you’re dealing with a flooding problem, contact  SERVPRO of Laurel today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist at 601-425-0119.

Grease Fire 101

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Grease fires happen quickly. You may be frying some bacon or chicken and all of a sudden your kitchen is on fire. Do you know how to put out a grease fire?

There are several things that can and should be done, as long as it is safe to do them:

1. Turn off the heat source.

2. Cover the flames with a metal lid. This works for small grease fires. Fire has to have oxygen to survive and placing a lid over the flames will cut off the oxygen supply causing the flames to extinguish themselves. 

3. Pour baking soda on the flames. This only works for small fires. But a word of caution, it will take a large amount to extinguish small flames. 

4. As a last resort, or if the flames are too large for the previously mentioned methods, use a Class B Dry Chemical fire extinguisher. Use of a fire extinguisher will result in much more clean up needed, but it's better than letting a grease fire destroy your entire home. 

5. Call 9-1-1. 

NEVER, use water to try and put out a grease fire. This will cause the grease to splatter and the fire to spread. Also, do not move the pot/skillet around, as this could cause the fire to spread as well. 

Emergency Ready Profile

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

As a homeowner you always want to make sure you have emergency contacts close by in case anything unexpected happens. What if you are a homeowner but also a business owner? I know personally I couldn't imagine the amount of stress! SERVPRO realizes that you might not think about the unexpected things that might happen to your business; flooding, tornado damage, etc. 

That's why we have our Emergency Ready Program available to you! Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster, plan for it now! As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
 The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage A no cost assessment of your facility. – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. – This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. – You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. – This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. – Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”  Give us a call today and set up your ERP!

Why Choose SERVPRO of Laurel?

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

Why SERVPRO of Laurel?

As an agent, adjuster, or any kind of insurance professional, you have a number of responsibilities.  Of these responsibilities are recommending reputable service companies to your clients as well as keeping claims costs down for your company.  SERVPRO Laurel is a highly qualified and trustworthy company that fill many needs to your clients when they find themselves in the middle of a fire or water loss.

TIMING

Arriving at a loss in a timely manner reduces damage and therefore reduces the cost of restoring damaged property.  An immediate response is vital to limiting damage, and SERVPRO of Laurel strives to arrive on the scene as quickly as possible.  This falls in line with taking care of both the home or business owner in conjunction with limiting costs for the insurance provider.

PRETESTING

Replacing property is far more costly than restoring property.  Pretesting is a necessary step in the restoration process to determine the level of damage and dictate the necessary actions to begin restoration.  A lack of pretesting could cause the quality or scope of the work to diminish which leads to unhappy clients.  Your SERVPRO of Laurel professionals will always pretest the site in order to determine the extent of damage and the proper course of action to restore the property.

TRAINING

Proper training is ideal for providing your clients the best service possible.  Your SERVPRO of Laurel franchise professionals are trained to industry standards in Fire and Water cleanup and restoration.  

Timing, pretesting, and training are just a few of the reasons that insurance professionals and companies can trust SERVPRO of Laurel to take the best care of their clients while limiting costs by restoring in place of replacing property.

Power Outages

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Power Outages

Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may:

• Disrupt communications, water, and transportation.

• Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks, and other services.

• Cause food spoilage and water contamination.

• Prevent use of medical devices.

PROTECT YOURSELF DURING A POWER OUTAGE:

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.

• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.

• Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.

• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.

• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.

• If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling.

• Check on neighbors.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A POWER OUTAGE THREATENS: 

Prepare NOW

• Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.
• Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
• Plan for batteries and other alternatives to meet your needs when the power goes out.
• Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. Monitor weather reports.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home.
• Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.
• Review the supplies that are available in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member. Have enough nonperishable food and water.
• Use a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer so that you can know the temperature when the power is restored. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
• Keep mobile phones and other electric equipment charged and gas tanks full.

https://www.ready.gov/power-outages

Every 18 Seconds

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Every 18 seconds a fire occurs somewhere in the U.S.! After experiencing such an event our hearts usually are overwhelmed with the long process of recovery. SERVPRO of Laurel can help alleviate much of the burden of cleaning up and restoring your business, home, and belongings. After a fire SERVPRO will begin to assess your needs. SERVPRO determines what your needs are and then assesses what is restorable and what methods will be used in restoration. The structure and contents will be cleaned by trained experts using either wet or dry cleaning. All restorable contents are cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, draperies, and upholstery. Additionally, all other restorable content such as electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric and brac, and much more will be cleaned and deodorized as well.

Why not set your mind at ease by being prepared for the possibility of a fire? Familiarize yourself with the professionals at SERVPRO of Laurel.

(601) 425-0119

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team. 601.425.0119

Did you know that SERVPRO has a specialized storm team and large loss response network to provide the resources to your property when others can’t? In the event of a disaster, SERVPRO professionals have the resources to relocate crews with equipment to take care of all of our customer’s needs. SERVPRO strategically places mobilization teams across the country to travel when needed to support in recovery after large storm events such as hurricanes. Our job as water damage restoration professionals is to limit the amount of business interruption. We understand that fast mitigation is key to getting your business back up and running. SERVPRO provides the resources in the event of a large storm event to make sure that the right equipment, procedures and training are in place to ensure that the structure is dry the first time and saves you time and money.

Do you have questions about how SERVPRO of Laurel can help you prepare for a disaster? Contact us today at (601) 425-0119!

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team. 601.425.0119

Did you know that SERVPRO has a specialized storm team and large loss response network to provide the resources to your property when others can’t? In the event of a disaster, SERVPRO professionals have the resources to relocate crews with equipment to take care of all of our customer’s needs. SERVPRO strategically places mobilization teams across the country to travel when needed to support in recovery after large storm events such as hurricanes. Our job as water damage restoration professionals is to limit the amount of business interruption. We understand that fast mitigation is key to getting your business back up and running. SERVPRO provides the resources in the event of a large storm event to make sure that the right equipment, procedures and training are in place to ensure that the structure is dry the first time and saves you time and money.

Do you have questions about how SERVPRO of Laurel can help you prepare for a disaster? Don't wait, contact us today at (601) 425-0119!

Water Proofing Your Commercial Building

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Is your Laurel, MS business in a building that is comfortable, dry and weatherproof? If so, thank the heroes responsible for exterior maintenance. It is their job to keep your building maintained. Proper maintenance ensures that the weather stays outside where it belongs.

Damage to the exterior lets in the weather. Some, like broken windows, is obvious and demands immediate attention. Other damage starts tiny and grows into serious maintenance problems.

Examples of minor damage are:

Small holes in siding
Loose or cracked windows
Gaps around vents, pipes and other exterior features
Damaged masonry
Routine Inspections Are the Key to Preventive Maintenance

Every building has problems that are easy to overlook. They don’t interfere with the business operation, so they go unreported. The first step in fixing them is finding them. The best way to identify them is through a complete building inspection. Think of this as a close inspection of the building with the help of a checklist. Here are some of the tasks that an exterior maintenance inspection might include:

1. Inspect the roof. Look for areas where the roofing material needs repair. Check the vents, air conditioner and other features attached to the roof to make sure they won’t leak. Check the gutters and downspouts. Make sure that rain water will flow down and away from the building.
2. Inspect the walls. Look for openings that might let water in. A structural engineer can help you determine if there is water damage.
3. Inspect the masonry. Areas that are failing might provide a path for water to get inside. Bring in a professional to check the situation.
4. Inspect the doors and windows. Make sure that they stop the flow of air and water.
Some exterior maintenance problems can’t wait.

One of these is water damage. There are local water damage restoration specialists ready to come to your aid. They are just a phone call away.

High Traffic Areas

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel often is involved in both maintaining and restoring high traffic areas on floors in both businesses and residential areas. Floors that are exposed to high traffic can often become an unbecoming part of a business or residence. Recently SERVPRO of Laurel stripped and waxed floors in a local church and the result was AMAZING! While restoring the worn areas of rugs, carpets, and hard surfaces is possible, routine upkeep and maintenance can add life to your high traffic areas. SERVPRO specializes in both areas and constantly produce results that are not only pleasing to the customer but are also above and beyond the expectations of most. If you have floors that are in need of deep cleaning and restoration or are just interested in extending the life and appeal of your floors... contact SERVPRO of Laurel for more information. 601-425-0119

Do you know what is in your ductwork?

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

What is Lurking in Your Ducts?

DO you know what is in your ductwork?

Often what we cannot see gets ignored or overlooked. The ventilation systems in our homes are often the reason for poor air quality, and health effects because of what is hiding in the duct work. Unattended ductwork can circulate odors, mold, and other potential health effects in your home or business.

SERVPRO of Laurel offers services that will both inspect and clean your ductwork to rid them of such contaminants. Keeping the HVAC system and ductwork clean can definitely extend the life of your system and allow it to run at its best. This can save you both heartache and money. SERVPRO also uses patented equipment to examine your ductwork and system and also clean out dust and grime. Not all ductwork or HVAC systems will need cleaning but SERVPRO of Laurel will still give you recommendations on how to improve air quality and maintain your system. SERVPRO's process will give you peace of mind and save you money!

Get started today by giving SERVPRO of Laurel at (601) 425-0119!

Do you have a Fire Extinguisher?

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

You could save your home from fire with a fire extinguisher at your ready.

Close your eyes and imagine. You’re at home, or maybe in the office, and you smell ... smoke? Definitely smoke. Fire! You don’t panic, because you’re not the type and you’re prepared. You grab the nearest fire extinguisher, find the flames. You get ready, aim.... and suddenly realize you don’t know how this thing works.

Fire extinguishers can be the first line of defense if fire breaks out in your home or business, but they won’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use them or have the wrong extinguisher for the job. When it comes to fire, plan, prepare and remain calm. Knowing how, when and why to use your fire extinguisher—not to mention which fire extinguisher to use—will increase both your safety and peace of mind knowing you can protect you and your belonging from fire damage.

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Home or office, when a fire breaks out you have moments to decide: fight or flight? If you feel even the slightest doubt about handling it yourself, move everyone to a safe place and call 911. Ditto if you don’t know how to use your extinguisher or aren’t sure it’s the right class for the fire you’re fighting; better to let the pros handle it than to try to navigate the learning curve mid-fire.

If you decide you can safely put out the fire, grab the extinguisher and get busy, after you locate a safe way out. If you spot a clear exit but it doesn’t look to stay clear long, get out now.

What Kind of Extinguisher to Use
Home- and business owners can choose from five types of fire extinguishers:

• Class A: for a fire involving normal combustibles and flammables, including cloth, paper and wood
• Class B: for a fire involving flammable liquids like gas, oil, paint, paint thinner and solvents
• Class C: to fight a fire involving electrical equipment/appliances that are plugged in and receiving power—electric drills, table saws, computer equipment, televisions, wiring and fuse boxes, for example
• Class D: to put out a fire involving combustible metals—magnesium, sodium, zirconium, etc. (Note: Don’t try to fight this kind of fire unless you’ve been specifically trained for it!)
• Class K: for fires typically found in restaurants, involving cooking oil and commercial-grade cooking equipment

Some fires involve several or all of the above. Fortunately, fire extinguishers are labeled not only with the types of fire they’re designed to fight, but with the types of fire you should avoid using them on. Example: Never use a Class A extinguisher on a Class B or C fire—the results could be deadly!

Fire Extinguisher How-to

1. Stand six to eight feet away from the flames.
2. Make sure you have a clear exit, in case the fire spreads or flames out of control.
3. Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever.
4. Aim the hose at the base of the fire.
5. Press the lever located above the handle to release the agent.
6. Use a back-and-forth sweeping motion to saturate the base of the fire until the flames are extinguished.
7. Continue the process if the fire re-ignites.
8. If the fire doesn’t go out or spreads, get to safety.

Extinguisher Safety Tips

• Install fire extinguishers in areas where fires are likely to break out, including kitchens and break rooms.
• Check periodically to make sure all fire extinguishers are fully charged.
• Show every family member or employee where the fire extinguishers and fire alarms are located.
• Train yourself, your loved ones and your co-workers to use the equipment properly.

Even with a fire extinguisher, some fire damage will occur. When this happens, call your local SERVPRO at 601-425-0119.

SERVPRO has many methods of Deodrization.

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

A few of SERVPRO's many machines used to deodorize a customers home or business.

SERVPRO of Laurel has many methods to deodorize a nuisance odor in your home or business.  We have several specialized deodorizers which are applied by ULV and Thermal Foggers.  We also have Ozone Generators for those hard to eliminate odors.  Hydroxyl Generators are another tool we have for eliminating unpleasant odors.  We can help make that problem odor "Like it never even happened."

Thermal fogging uses a special solvent or water based deodorizer that is heated and applied as a dry fog.  This allows the deodorizer to get into all areas of the structure.

Ozone is used to oxidize organic odors such as smoke, pet odors, mildew, organic pollutants and more without the use of chemicals.  This is done by the ozone machine using an electrical current to split oxygen molecules it the air (O2) resulting in a free oxygen molecule which reattached to the oxygen in the air and resulting (O3) ozone.  Ozone can only be used when humans, plants, and animals are not in the area.  The area needs to be dry when using ozone because it can cause bleaching if the area is wet.

Hydroxyl generators are used in a method similar to ozone, but can be ran in occupied areas.  If ozone can be used for one day, hydroxyl generators will typically take three to five days.  The results are similar to ozone but are safer because people do not have to be removed from the home or business.

If your experiencing odors in your home or business, give SERVPRO of Laurel the opportunity to make that odor "Like it never even happened."

ERP Be Prepared When a Disaster Happens

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

When Disaster strikes you can be ruined or you can be Ready.  As a business owner you always want to make sure you have emergency contacts close by in case anything unexpected happens.  We have seen the Stress experienced by business owners during trying and unexpected times and have helped bring control back to your business.   SERVPRO realizes that you might not think about the unexpected things that might happen to your business; fire, flooding, tornado damage, etc. 

That's why we have our Emergency Ready Program available to you! Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster, plan for it now! As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
 The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage A no cost assessment of your facility. – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. – This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. – You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. – This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. – Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”  Give us a call today and set up your ERP

Tips for Safety during a Tornado.

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Tornadoes in Mississippi can be rampant this time of year because of the ever-changing weather.

Here are some tips for being weather aware:

If you are at home during a tornado:

Go to a windowless interior room on the lowest level of your house. Go to a storm cellar or basement if your house has one. If there is no basement, go to an inner hallway or a smaller room without windows.

Get away from windows.

Go to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they tend to attract debris.

Get under a heavy piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench or heavy table or desk and hold on to it.

If you are at work or school during a tornado:

Go to the basement or to an inside hallway at the lowest level.

Avoid places with wide-pan roof such as auditoriums, cafeterias, large hallways or shopping malls.

If you are in a car during a tornado:

Never try to drive faster than a tornado in a car or truck. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift up a car or truck and toss it through the air.

Get out of the car immediately and take shelter in a nearby building.

If there is no time to get indoors, get out of the car and lie in a ditch or low-lying area away from the vehicle. Be aware of the potential for flooding.

As always, if SERVPRO of Laurel can help in any way, give us a call at 601-425-0119

Water proofing your commercial building

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Inspect Your Commercial Building and Keep It Weatherproof

Is your Laurel,MS business in a building that is comfortable, dry and weatherproof? If so, thank the heroes responsible for exterior maintenance. It is their job to keep your building maintained. Proper maintenance ensures that the weather stays outside where it belongs.

Damage to the exterior lets in the weather. Some, like broken windows, is obvious and demands immediate attention. Other damage starts tiny and grows into serious maintenance problems.

Examples of minor damage are:

Small holes in siding
Loose or cracked windows
Gaps around vents, pipes and other exterior features
Damaged masonry
Routine Inspections Are the Key to Preventive Maintenance

Every building has problems that are easy to overlook. They don’t interfere with the business operation, so they go unreported. The first step in fixing them is finding them. The best way to identify them is through a complete building inspection. Think of this as a close inspection of the building with the help of a checklist. Here are some of the tasks that an exterior maintenance inspection might include:

1. Inspect the roof. Look for areas where the roofing material needs repair. Check the vents, air conditioner and other features attached to the roof to make sure they won’t leak. Check the gutters and downspouts. Make sure that rain water will flow down and away from the building.
2. Inspect the walls. Look for openings that might let water in. A structural engineer can help you determine if there is water damage.
3. Inspect the masonry. Areas that are failing might provide a path for water to get inside. Bring in a professional to check the situation.
4. Inspect the doors and windows. Make sure that they stop the flow of air and water.
Some exterior maintenance problems can’t wait.

One of these is water damage. SERVPRO of Laurel has water damage restoration specialists ready to come to your aid. They are just a phone call away. 601-425-0119

Water Mitigation

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to water damage, it is important to remember that it doesn’t take a major flood or a hurricane to cause severe damage to your home. Most water damage problems are actually the result of a small leak that goes undetected over a long period of time. By the time you notice it, it is too late. Your drywall can become swollen and stained, ceilings could be sagging, carpets ruined, floors warped and it could pose a threat to your home’s electrical system. 

Whether you’ve discovered water damage from a broken or leaky pipe, a sewer line break, a sink or toilet overflow, or a malfunctioning appliance like a water heater, washing machine, dishwasher or refrigerator in your home, our flood damage technicians are equipped to handle any problem 24 hours a day.

Potential Dangers From Water Damage.

Something as small as above average humidity levels are more than enough to cause you problems, namely in the form of mold, mildew, and other potentially dangerous toxins. According to the CDC you should keep the moisture levels in your inhabitable spaces between 40% to 60%.

Obviously, standing water will damage flooring, drywall and other similar materials on your property; but just the elevated moisture content in the air can lead to future issues such as MOLD! Molds slowly destroy the things they grow on, and if left unchecked, can cause serious structural damage.

 Fast Response

The key to proper restoration is fast response time. The sooner you call SERVPRO of Laurel,  the faster our team of certified service technicians can get to work to make the water damage "Like it never even happened."

 Our water damage services include:

• Water extraction
• Structural drying
• Damage Assessments
• Mold Remediation
• Antimicrobial treatment
• Debris Removal
• Upholstery & Carpet Cleaning
• HVAC Duct Cleaning
• Structural Repair

We strive for exceptional customer service.

Our top priorities are safety, quality, and exceptional customer service. We are an emergency restoration company that provides service to both residential and commercial clients. If you have flooding of any kind, our trained and certified technicians can handle any and all water damage situations. We make sure that any affected area is professionally cleaned, deodorized and sanitized. SERVPRO of Laurel is available to handle any opportunity 24 hours a day. 601-425-0119

Helpful tips for your property

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a franchise company. SERVPRO has been in business for over 50 years. Experience, coupled with training, has made given them quite a bit of knowledge to pass on to their clients. SERVPRO of Laurel is owned and staffed by highly trained and specialized personnel that really desire to help you in whatever  cleanup or recovery situation you find yourself in. There are many things that you can do and many you shouldn't do before SERVPRO arrives to help you with your fire, water damage, smoke damage, vandalism, or even harmful waste issues. The "do's and don'ts" so to speak.

For instance with fire or smoke damage -

DO

. Limit your movement in the home or business to prevent soot particles from becoming embedded in upholstery or carpets

. Keep your hands clean. Soot transfers easily and can damage many surfaces including woodwork

DON'T

. attempt to wash walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Laurel

. Consume any canned or packaged food or beverage that may have been close to the fire

With Water Damage..

DO

. Shut off water source if possible

. Turn off circuit breakers fro wet areas of the building

DON'T

. Enter rooms with standing water where electrical hazards may exist

. Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet

Be prepared for all emergencies by learning all you can about what to do until help arrives.

An extensive list can be obtained by calling SERVPRO of Laurel  

601-425-0119

Choosing to Restore versus Replace.

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Concentrate on Restoration Rather Than Replacement:

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

What to Expect from Any Service:

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

What to Look For:

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


SERVPRO of Laurel is a locally owned and operated authority for residential fire damage cleanup and restoration. When fire damage threatens properties in the counties of Jones, Wayne, Covington, and Jeff Davis counties, we can help. Contact us now for a prompt response to your fire damage emergency at 601-425-0119.

How to Winterize your property to prevent frozen pipes

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Winter weather is upon us, which means lots of pumpkin spice, sweaters, and football.   However, winter weather also means cold temps are right around the corner.  Which means colder temperatures, higher electric bill, and possibly snow and ice.   

That’s why it is important to prepare for the colder weather by winterizing your pipes.  Below is a checklist of important things to consider/complete.

1. Use insulation sleeves to insulate pipes. Make sure you cover the pipes fully and do not leave any gaps without insulation as cold air can reach these areas and affect the pipe. 
2. Be sure to inspect the outside areas of the home or property. Cold air can enter through cracks and cause freezing.  That is why it is important to seal any visible cracks with caulk or spray foam.
3. When freezing temperatures do occur it is a good idea to allow a faucet to drip to allow water to move continuously throughout the pipes preventing freezing water.
4. If the home or property has a crawl space be sure that it properly insulated and block any openings that can allow cold air in.

These measures should ensure that your home or property will be safe from water damage this winter.  But, if you do suffer from a water loss, remember that SERVPRO of Laurel is always “here to help.” 601-425-0119

Biohazard Cleaning Services

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Bio hazard cleanup can mean many things. It can mean that your house or business has a bacterial or viral issue that needs disinfection. It can also mean that there may have been a death where bodily fluids like blood damaged the building and it needs professional bio-recovery treatment. It can also be a situation where chemicals from an accident require a level of cleanup that you are not comfortable with.

Whatever the type of job, you can trust SERVPRO of Laurel to respond quickly. The risk of infection is a serious matter if you have immunocompromised family, friends or customers and employees inhabiting the facility. 

Many times these types of bio hazard services are covered by your insurance company.

Please call us if you have any questions or concerns. 601-425-0119

Helpful steps if you find mold in your Rental Property.

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

What To Do if You Find Mold in Your Rental Property.

Mold spores are everywhere and are harmless when they're floating around, but the trouble comes when they take up residence in your apartment or rental home in  Laurel, MS.   Whether it's in your bathroom or around your windows, mold can pop up wherever moisture is. As a tenant, here are some things to do when you discover mold contamination in your home.

1. Appraise the Situation
Before you do anything, take a closer look to make sure the substance you're seeing is actually mold and not dirt or mildew. If it's mildew, which looks fluffy or powdery and is usually gray, white or yellow, it is easy to clean off. If you determine that the substance is mold, try to find the source of the moisture it's feeding on. If it's around your shower or windows, that's a pretty obvious reason why it might be there, but if it's on your walls, there might be a pipe leaking, requiring some more intense water and mold cleanup.

2. Contact Your Landlord
If you've determined that there needs to be some action taken, call your landlord. Send them pictures of the mold and explain what's happening. Since mold is usually tied to a water problem, they'll want to respond quickly. When you do this, though, don't assume that they'll automatically take care of the cost of the mold cleanup. If the source is a leaky pipe that is outside of your control, it's usually their responsibility, but if you caused a flood or haven't been ventilating the bathroom properly when you shower, it's often your job to cover the expenses. If you think the mold contamination may be your fault, talk with your renter's insurance about what they'll cover and what they won't.
Mold is a common issue in homes, but it's important that you respond quickly if you think you've found some in yours. This keeps the mold cleanup process from becoming bigger and more costly than it needs to be.

Season to be aware for fire damage.

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

We often hear about a particular time of the year as being the “season for house fires,” meaning house fire disasters are on the rise from that month forward.  It is usually associated with colder weather when we start to use more home heating.  When it comes to your home, however, there is no “season” for a fire.  It can strike at any time.  The sad fact is that 2,500 people will be killed in fires over the next year.  13,000 people will suffer serious injuries related to fires and the loss of property – in terms of real dollars – will be more than $7 Billion!

SERVPRO of Laurel provides expert restoration services if you have experienced a house fire.  If that is your situation now, please call (601) 425-0199 so we can begin restoring your home.  The residue left from a fire, known as soot, presents hidden dangers if not properly removed from your home and your possessions.  Soot is acidic in nature and within hours to days, it will begin to decay or even destroy whatever surface it comes in contact with.

Our homes are a collection of different types of materials, all of which represent unique risks once they have been exposed to the heat from a fire.  The structure itself is composed of wood and sheetrock.  Electrical wiring is wrapped with plastics and rubber.  Insulation is found in attics and behind walls.  Floors are made of wooden materials that have been coated with chemicals to preserve their beauty, or covered with synthetic materials found in carpets.  Each presents its own set of risks.  The water used to extinguish the fire also presents a different set of problems for furniture that comes in contact with it and personal belongings left on floors. 

SERVPRO of Laurel technicians are trained to determine what can be salvaged and what needs to be discarded.  Each home contains items of sentimental value like pictures and heirlooms.  Until help arrives, pictures need to be removed from glass frames as quickly as possible so they can dry unless they have become stuck to the glass.  Valuable items like jewelry, weapons, ammunition, financial papers and other personal items should be removed from the home for safe keeping. 

Our restoration specialists treat the damaged contents of your home with the utmost respect and care.  Once cleaned and restored, we will safely store your property until your home is ready for your return.  Our job is to make your loss “Like it never even happened.” 

ERP - You can be ruined to you can be ready!

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

When Disaster strikes you can be ruined or you can be Ready.  As a business owner you always want to make sure you have emergency contacts close by in case anything unexpected happens.  We have seen the Stress experienced by business owners during trying and unexpected times and have helped bring control back to your business.   SERVPRO realizes that you might not think about the unexpected things that might happen to your business; fire, flooding, tornado damage, etc. 

That's why we have our Emergency Ready Program available to you! Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster, plan for it now! As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
 The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage A no cost assessment of your facility. – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. – This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. – You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. – This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. – Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”  Give us a call today and set up your ERP

Reasons to choose SERVPRO of Laurel after a flood.

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

Here’s Why You Should Seek Professional Help After A Flood

Water is one of the most long-term destructive substance in homes and business premises. Excess and unwanted moisture or flooding could cause the deterioration of personal property and even the building's structure. Therefore, it is imperative to seek water damage restoration services from qualified professionals before the water in home and water in business causes severe losses.

It is necessary to call a restoration company as soon as there is excess moisture in home and water in business premises or when there is flood damage. Water cleanup services serve the purpose of mitigating the harmful effects of water, especially within the first 48 hours. Whether the water damage looks severe or not, a quick cleanup can produce excellent results.

If not addressed in the quickest time possible, excess water in home or water in business can cause expensive damage to the home structures and furniture. More so, it can promote electrical hazards and also lead to the growth and spread of mold.

Water in business and water in home may be as a result of clogged toilets, overflowing washing machines, pipe break, plumbing leaks, leaky roofs, supply line break among other causes. Fortunately, home and business owners can access a professional restoration company as quick as possible. The mitigation process involves the use of the industry’s best techniques handled by qualified personnel to free home and business premises of flood damage and water damage.

The effects of a flooded home can quickly jump from bad to irreparable. If not catered for in the shortest time possible, a flooded home may result to secondary damages that are accompanied by costly repairs. Water mitigation is a way of water damage restoration which stops water from spreading. If the water spreads, it can cause severe damage to the structures in the premises. A quick mitigation by skilled professionals prevents the spread, reducing the water damage costs.

The water cleanup process is very scientific, and for the professionals to determine if the business or home structures should be restored or replaced, they evaluate the following:
• The degree of contamination
• The amount of property damage, and
• The replacement costs versus the restoration costs

The water in home and businesses if not quickly dealt with could cause massive business interruption and financial burdens. Mold is also a major problem caused by excess moisture. To prevent mold and mildew from developing, it is imperative to get a fast response from the professional water restoration company. These professionals ensure to apply the safest removal methods so that the affected business and home premises are repaired promptly and professionally.

Both pipe breaks and supply line breaks are a major cause of a flooded home. And if the drying is not done as is required, there is a major risk for the property to be prone to flood damage. Professional flood damage restoration firms help homeowners to get the proof of damage as well as a list of the required repairs. If drying is done through the proper methods, a flooded home can be restored to its former state.

Each water and flood damage scenario is different, and each needs a unique solution. Professionals are well aware of how to carry out the necessary process whether the damage is as a result of pipe breaks, plumbing leaks, and supply line break. However, the general process involves the following steps:
• Emergency contact
• Inspection and damage assessment
• Water removal
• Drying and dehumidification
• Cleaning and sanitizing, and
• Restoration

The damage caused by water has many sources, from natural disasters to supply line break, and more often than not pipe break. Despite the source, Restoration Company professionals can carry out the water mitigation and drying process as is expected. Moreover, there are many benefits associated with the water cleanup process.

Water cleanup benefits
1. Rapid restoration
2. Preventing mildew and mold
3. Important details are addressed
4. There is professional input
5. Insurance issues are handled.
CALL- 601-425-0119 for more information on water damage.

Not all water damages to homes start from a flood.

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to water damage, it is important to remember that it doesn’t take a major flood or a hurricane to cause severe damage to your home. Most water damage problems are actually the result of a small leak that goes undetected over a long period of time. By the time you notice it, it is too late. Your drywall can become swollen and stained, ceilings could be sagging, carpets ruined, floors warped and it could pose a threat to your home’s electrical system. 

Whether you’ve discovered water damage from a broken or leaky pipe, a sewer line break, a sink or toilet overflow, or a malfunctioning appliance like a water heater, washing machine, dishwasher or refrigerator in your home, our flood damage technicians are equipped to handle any problem 24 hours a day.

Potential Dangers From Water Damage.

Something as small as above average humidity levels are more than enough to cause you problems, namely in the form of mold, mildew, and other potentially dangerous toxins. According to the CDC you should keep the moisture levels in your inhabitable spaces between 40% to 60%.

Obviously, standing water will damage flooring, drywall and other similar materials on your property; but just the elevated moisture content in the air can lead to future issues such as MOLD! Molds slowly destroy the things they grow on, and if left unchecked, can cause serious structural damage.

Fast Response

The key to proper restoration is fast response time. The sooner you call SERVPRO of Laurel,  the faster our team of certified service technicians can get to work to make the water damage "Like it never even happened."

 Our water damage services include:

• Water extraction
• Structural drying
• Damage Assessments
• Mold Remediation
• Antimicrobial treatment
• Debris Removal
• Upholstery & Carpet Cleaning
• HVAC Duct Cleaning
• Structural Repair

We strive for exceptional customer service.

Our top priorities are safety, quality, and exceptional customer service. We are an emergency restoration company that provides service to both residential and commercial clients. If you have flooding of any kind, our trained and certified technicians can handle any and all water damage situations. We make sure that any affected area is professionally cleaned, deodorized and sanitized. SERVPRO of Laurel is available to handle any opportunity 24 hours a day. 

SERVPRO of Laurel is helping to fight COVID - 19!

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

COVID-19. It is on everyone's mind daily and the height of most people's concerns. How is SERVPRO assisting in the fight against this virus? SERVPRO of Laurel is providing proactive cleaning services to customers that want to take measures to protect themselves, their families, and their employees in this fight against Coronavirus. This is not the first time that SERVPRO has taken to the front lines in a pandemic. We have encountered everything from the common cold to the swine flu, and now Coronavirus. Our highly trained professionals have been fighting pandemics for years and adhere to all CDC Guidelines when doing it. We are a firm believer in helping the members of our community stay healthy and ahead of the curve when it comes to health hazards. 

Proactive cleaning takes many forms, all of which should be performed by a trained professional. We have many cleaning products including sterilizing and disinfecting solutions that we use to combat airborne and direct contact diseases. Some are fogged into buildings and others are sprayed directing onto surfaces and wiped off. Dwell time is the duration a product is allowed to sit on a surface in order to perform its function. We always allow for proper dwell time and cleanup of all solutions in order to provide maximum effectiveness in sterilization and disinfecting of buildings.

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities. If you or anyone you know is interested in proactive cleaning for their home or business, please contact us and we will be happy to assess your needs and provide you with some peace of mind during these trying times. 

Stay Safe. Stay Well.

House Fire Season

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

We often hear about a particular time of the year as being the “season for house fires,” meaning house fire disasters are on the rise from that month forward.  It is usually associated with colder weather when we start to use more home heating.  When it comes to your home, however, there is no “season” for a fire.  It can strike at any time.  The sad fact is that 2,500 people will be killed in fires over the next year.  13,000 people will suffer serious injuries related to fires and the loss of property – in terms of real dollars – will be more than $7 Billion!

SERVPRO of Laurel provides expert restoration services if you have experienced a house fire.  If that is your situation now, please call (601) 425-0199 so we can begin restoring your home.  The residue left from a fire, known as soot, presents hidden dangers if not properly removed from your home and your possessions.  Soot is acidic in nature and within hours to days, it will begin to decay or even destroy whatever surface it comes in contact with.

Our homes are a collection of different types of materials, all of which represent unique risks once they have been exposed to the heat from a fire.  The structure itself is composed of wood and sheetrock.  Electrical wiring is wrapped with plastics and rubber.  Insulation is found in attics and behind walls.  Floors are made of wooden materials that have been coated with chemicals to preserve their beauty, or covered with synthetic materials found in carpets.  Each presents its own set of risks.  The water used to extinguish the fire also presents a different set of problems for furniture that comes in contact with it and personal belongings left on floors. 

SERVPRO of Laurel technicians are trained to determine what can be salvaged and what needs to be discarded.  Each home contains items of sentimental value like pictures and heirlooms.  Until help arrives, pictures need to be removed from glass frames as quickly as possible so they can dry unless they have become stuck to the glass.  Valuable items like jewelry, weapons, ammunition, financial papers and other personal items should be removed from the home for safe keeping. 

Our restoration specialists treat the damaged contents of your home with the utmost respect and care.  Once cleaned and restored, we will safely store your property until your home is ready for your return.  Our job is to make your loss “Like it never even happened.” 

ERP - Be Prepared When a Disaster Happens/

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

When Damage Strikes, You can be Ruined... or You can Be Ready. For info on setting up an ERP for your business please call our office. 601-425-0119

When Disaster strikes you can be ruined or you can be Ready.  As a business owner you always want to make sure you have emergency contacts close by in case anything unexpected happens.  We have seen the Stress experienced by business owners during trying and unexpected times and have helped bring control back to your business.   SERVPRO realizes that you might not think about the unexpected things that might happen to your business; fire, flooding, tornado damage, etc. 

That's why we have our Emergency Ready Program available to you! Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster, plan for it now! As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
 The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage A no cost assessment of your facility. – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. – This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. – You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. – This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. – Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”  Give us a call today and set up your ERP

How a Restoration Company can help you during a loss to your business.

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

For help cleaning your fire or smoke damaged structure call SERVPRO of laurel. - 601-425-0119

How a Commercial Fire Damage Company Will Restore Your Business

Were you a recent victim of a fire in your home or a fire in your business? Are you dealing with a horrible smoke smell? Are you trying to clean up smoke damage and soot damage? Do not try to deal with the commercial fire damage and the fire cleanup process by yourself. You should not even enter your home or your business before calling a fire restoration company. There may be safety hazards. The structure may cave in at any moment, and there may be broken shards of glass that can hurt you. The smoke smell can also be dangerous.

It is imperative that you call a professional restoration company as soon as you possibly can. They will do an assessment of your burnt home and take in all of the fire damage. They will come up with a plan of action for the restoration of your home and for dealing with the commercial fire damage.

The first thing the restoration company will do is board up the holes in your walls and your broken windows. You need to board up the holes before you take care of the water damage, or else more water may enter your home through those holes when it rains, thus undoing your work. A professional restoration company will use tarps or wood boards to board up those holes. The holes that need boarding up include the holes caused by the fire and the holes caused by the firefighters; they often make holes to make sure that the fire is not still burning behind the wall. Boarding up the holes is the first step of dealing with commercial fire damage.

After doing that, the fire damage restoration service will start removing the water from your home. Water that was used to put out the fire in your home or the fire in your business can cause serious damage. It can soak your furniture and your walls. You will need flood pumps to pump out the water. You will need special tools to dry out your walls, your furniture, and your carpets. A professional fire damage restoration service has the tools that are necessary to deal with commercial fire damage.

The next step in dealing with the fire damage is dealing with the smoke damage, also referred to as the soot damage. Your walls will likely be blackened. They will need to be cleaned from all the soot that covers them. They will be grayed by the smoke, and you will need to clean that up as well, or else the smoke smell will not go away. You will need to repaint your walls and ceiling so that you totally remove the trace of the soot damage and smoke damage. You should probably also add new wallpaper. The good news is that a fire cleanup company will do all of this and remove the smoke smell for you in a professional and timely manner.

The next step in dealing with the fire damage, after dealing with the smoke damage and soot damage, will be repairing the structure of your home. The fire cleanup company will need to repair the walls and the ceilings, as well as the floors, of your home. It is likely that they were badly damaged. They may not be safe anymore. The fire cleanup company can replace weakened walls and beams. They can turn your home or business into a beautiful place that is safe again after the fire in your home or the fire in your business. They can turn your home into a beautiful place that you love living in again.

The fire damage restoration company will deal with other aspects of fire damage as well. They will make sure your plumbing service is working after the fire in your home or the fire in your business. They will make sure that your electrical system is working. They will help you repair and replace any appliances that may have been damaged. They will make sure your sprinkler system is working and will be ready in case anything goes wrong. The fire damage restoration service will not leave until you are satisfied.
Call us at 601-425-0119 for more information on fire damage

The reasons to call SERVPRO of Laurel after a flood.

9/28/2019 (Permalink)

For help after a flood, call SERVPRO of Laurel. 601-425-0119

Here’s Why You Should Seek Professional Help After A Flood

Water is one of the most long-term destructive substance in homes and business premises. Excess and unwanted moisture or flooding could cause the deterioration of personal property and even the building's structure. Therefore, it is imperative to seek water damage restoration services from qualified professionals before the water in home and water in business causes severe losses.

It is necessary to call a restoration company as soon as there is excess moisture in home and water in business premises or when there is flood damage. Water cleanup services serve the purpose of mitigating the harmful effects of water, especially within the first 48 hours. Whether the water damage looks severe or not, a quick cleanup can produce excellent results.

If not addressed in the quickest time possible, excess water in home or water in business can cause expensive damage to the home structures and furniture. More so, it can promote electrical hazards and also lead to the growth and spread of mold.

Water in business and water in home may be as a result of clogged toilets, overflowing washing machines, pipe break, plumbing leaks, leaky roofs, supply line break among other causes. Fortunately, home and business owners can access a professional restoration company as quick as possible. The mitigation process involves the use of the industry’s best techniques handled by qualified personnel to free home and business premises of flood damage and water damage.

The effects of a flooded home can quickly jump from bad to irreparable. If not catered for in the shortest time possible, a flooded home may result to secondary damages that are accompanied by costly repairs. Water mitigation is a way of water damage restoration which stops water from spreading. If the water spreads, it can cause severe damage to the structures in the premises. A quick mitigation by skilled professionals prevents the spread, reducing the water damage costs.

The water cleanup process is very scientific, and for the professionals to determine if the business or home structures should be restored or replaced, they evaluate the following:
• The degree of contamination
• The amount of property damage, and
• The replacement costs versus the restoration costs

The water in home and businesses if not quickly dealt with could cause massive business interruption and financial burdens. Mold is also a major problem caused by excess moisture. To prevent mold and mildew from developing, it is imperative to get a fast response from the professional water restoration company. These professionals ensure to apply the safest removal methods so that the affected business and home premises are repaired promptly and professionally.

Both pipe breaks and supply line breaks are a major cause of a flooded home. And if the drying is not done as is required, there is a major risk for the property to be prone to flood damage. Professional flood damage restoration firms help homeowners to get the proof of damage as well as a list of the required repairs. If drying is done through the proper methods, a flooded home can be restored to its former state.

Each water and flood damage scenario is different, and each needs a unique solution. Professionals are well aware of how to carry out the necessary process whether the damage is as a result of pipe breaks, plumbing leaks, and supply line break. However, the general process involves the following steps:
• Emergency contact
• Inspection and damage assessment
• Water removal
• Drying and dehumidification
• Cleaning and sanitizing, and
• Restoration

The damage caused by water has many sources, from natural disasters to supply line break, and more often than not pipe break. Despite the source, Restoration Company professionals can carry out the water mitigation and drying process as is expected. Moreover, there are many benefits associated with the water cleanup process.

Water cleanup benefits
1. Rapid restoration
2. Preventing mildew and mold
3. Important details are addressed
4. There is professional input
5. Insurance issues are handled.
CALL- 601-425-0119 for more information on water damage.

water mitigation

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

If your affected by water damage in your home or business, call: SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

When it comes to water damage, it is important to remember that it doesn’t take a major flood or a hurricane to cause severe damage to your home. Most water damage problems are actually the result of a small leak that goes undetected over a long period of time. By the time you notice it, it is too late. Your drywall can become swollen and stained, ceilings could be sagging, carpets ruined, floors warped and it could pose a threat to your home’s electrical system. 

Whether you’ve discovered water damage from a broken or leaky pipe, a sewer line break, a sink or toilet overflow, or a malfunctioning appliance like a water heater, washing machine, dishwasher or refrigerator in your home, our flood damage technicians are equipped to handle any problem 24 hours a day.

Potential Dangers From Water Damage.

Something as small as above average humidity levels are more than enough to cause you problems, namely in the form of mold, mildew, and other potentially dangerous toxins. According to the CDC you should keep the moisture levels in your inhabitable spaces between 40% to 60%.

Obviously, standing water will damage flooring, drywall and other similar materials on your property; but just the elevated moisture content in the air can lead to future issues such as MOLD! Molds slowly destroy the things they grow on, and if left unchecked, can cause serious structural damage.

 Fast Response

The key to proper restoration is fast response time. The sooner you call SERVPRO of Laurel,  the faster our team of certified service technicians can get to work to make the water damage "Like it never even happened". 

 Our water damage services include:

• Water extraction
• Structural drying
• Damage Assessments
• Mold Remediation
• Antimicrobial treatment
• Debris Removal
• Upholstery & Carpet Cleaning
• HVAC Duct Cleaning
• Structural Repair

We strive for exceptional customer service.

Our top priorities are safety, quality, and exceptional customer service. We are an emergency restoration company that provides service to both residential and commercial clients. If you have flooding of any kind, our trained and certified technicians can handle any and all water damage situations. We make sure that any affected area is professionally cleaned, deodorized and sanitized. SERVPRO of Laurel is available to handle any opportunity 24 hours a day. 

Every 18 Seconds

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

Every 18 seconds a fire occurs somewhere in the U.S.! After experiencing such an event our hearts usually are overwhelmed with the long process of recovery. SERVPRO of Laurel can help alleviate much of the burden of cleaning up and restoring your business, home, and belongings. After a fire SERVPRO will begin to assess your needs. SERVPRO determines what your needs are and then assesses what is restorable and what methods will be used in restoration. The structure and contents will be cleaned by trained experts using either wet or dry cleaning. All restorable contents are cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, draperies, and upholstery. Additionally, all other restorable content such as electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric and brac, and much more will be cleaned and deodorized as well.

Why not set your mind at ease by being prepared for the possibility of a fire? Familiarize yourself with the professionals at SERVPRO of Laurel.

(601) 425-0119

SERVPRO 24 hour Emergency Water & Fire Restoration Services

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

SERVPRO of LAUREL is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (601)425-0119

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. SERVPRO of LAUREL has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• 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)?

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of LAUREL specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

Common causes for mold in buildings

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

For mold remediation needs call- SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

Why does mold grow?

 Any discussion about mold cleanup should start with understanding why mold begins to grow in the first place. Customers with a mold damage problem are always surprised to learn that toxic mold spores are present not just in their home, but every home, and in fact almost every environment. It’s a naturally occurring element and in low levels is completely safe to humans and pets and your home in general. So when does it become a problem? When too much moisture is introduced in the organic surfaces mold feeds on to grow. Things like drywall, insulation, wood, cabinets, etc. become mold’s food source when mixed with water and the right temperature. While there are many strains of toxic mold, most thrive in temperatures ranging from 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’ll notice, the average temperature in home’s ideal to our own comfort sits squarely within that range. So when it comes to mold growth, 2 things are always present: the right temperature and food. It’s when you introduce that 3rd element, water, that problems can quickly grow out of hand!

Most common moisture problems that lead to mold

 If your home suffered a massive water damage event, you’re obviously going to know about it and hopefully you’re going to hire a competent water damage restoration company to fix it (hint hint, that’s us!). So the likelihood of that event unleashing a chain reaction that leads to a big mold problem is small assuming you have the moisture removed quickly. The real big mold jobs we see are from much smaller, long-term moisture problems that just never went diagnosed. Below are some of the most common persistent water damage problems we see that can result in a massive amount of black mold damage.

 Leaks under sinks

Whether it’s from a supply line with a loose connection or a drain pipe that has a small hole, slow leaks under seats (or any other sink for that matter) can go unnoticed for some time because your cabinets can hide the problem. It’s always a good idea to check under your sink cabinets to look for any signs of moisture or musty odors. If you detect a problem, it may be a good idea to have a professional come out and inspect things further. In some cases the problem is isolated and will be something you can handle on your own. But in some cases, the visible signs are only the tip of the iceberg. You’d be shocked what we have seen on and in walls and under flooring after pulling out cabinets!

 Small roof leaks

In some instances, the symptoms of a significant roof leak are discovered pretty quickly. Usually you see discoloration in the top floor’s ceiling or worse, it collapses entirely. But in other cases when you have a very small leak, the problem can go undetected for quite some time and never result in water damage you can see from inside the home. It’s usually discovered when someone goes up into the attic for some unrelated reason and sees the problem: mold growth everywhere. On the roof decking, insulation, support beams, you name it. At that point, you’ve got an expensive problem on your hands and your insurance company likely isn’t going to pay for the damages.

The best way to prevent this particular mold problem from occurring is to perform both an exterior as well as interior inspection at least once a year. For the exterior, actually walk the roof of your home (if it’s safe) to look for damaged or missing shingles. Replacing them is easy! For the inside, climb up to your attic and inspect the roof decking for signs of water intrusion.

 Pipe leaks inside walls

A lot of times we are called to a home to do a mold inspection because a homeowner noticed a small patch of mold growing on the floor next to a wall. When we dig further, we usually discover there is a plumbing pipe housed in that wall that is slowly leaking and depositing water on the floor inside the wall cavity. Once we start to remove the drywall, often times we discover the problem is much larger than just the small visible spot on the floor. Usually the mold has traveled throughout the wall cavity and inside the subfloor. The damage can be extensive and the costs high.

You obviously can’t go tearing out sections of your walls often to figure out if you have a problem, so what can you do? The main thing you should be doing is watching your water bill. If you notice a spike and can’t determine a cause for that spike, you may have an undetected leak. At that point, you may want to hire a leak detection company to come out and perform an inspection to determine if you have a bigger problem you need to deal with. They’re better equipped at finding the problem, at which point we would come in and remove the excess moisture and black mold as well as repair any surfaces or structures that were torn out during the process!

Mold In Your Home? Call SERVPRO of Laurel at 601-425-0119.

How to clean up after a fire.

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

The photo shows the process of cleaning smoke and soot from fire damaged walls. If your home or business has a fire, call - SERVPRO of Laurel.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPROof Laurel will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke– Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke– Paper and Wood

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

Protein Fire Residue– Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today (601)-425-0119

Flood Watch vs Flood Warning?

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

if you experience flood or water damage call SERVPRO of Laurel. 601-425-0119

Lately there has been flooding all over the United States: if you are unfamiliar with the difference between a flash flood warning, flood warning, and flood advisory; then read below! 

What is the difference between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning issued by the National Weather Service?

• Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

• Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

• Flood Watch: Be Prepared:A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

• Flood Advisory: Be Aware: An Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.

Information from http://www.floodsafety.noaa.gov/

For all of your water damage, cleanup needs call (601)-425-0119

SERVPRO Tips for Mold Prevention.

9/22/2019 (Permalink)

Mold is the enemy of every homeowner. Mold looks unsightly, smells bad, and can cause damage to your soft furnishings, carpets, clothes, and even your appliances or the structure of your home itself. Often the first sign of mold is a glimpse of discoloration on a wall or ceiling, or maybe noticing that telltale moldy smell in a bathroom or laundry room.

 
However, spores can grow in hidden places, too. You can reduce the risk of the fungus growing unnoticed and causing mold damage to your residence home by being proactive about looking for evidence of mold. SERVPRO recommends you check the following places for hidden contamination. 
 
Chimneys 
Chimneys are cold and can easily get damp from rain or even snow. Brickwork provides plenty of hidden crevices for spores to grow in. Make sure your chimney flashing is in good condition and replace it if need be. An annual visit from a chimney sweep is a good idea, too. 
 
Kitchen Appliances 
Most kitchen appliances get washed after every use, but there are still some hidden areas you must check regularly. Take a look at refrigerator drip trays, the door and seal of front-loading washing machines, and refrigerator and freezer seals. You can deal with mild cases using a weak bleach solution followed by a quick wipe with white vinegar. 
 
Carpets and Carpet Pads 
Carpets and carpet pads provide an environment where mold can propagate unnoticed, especially if a carpet gets wet. If your floor coverings get wet, call us at once. Our skilled teams come with free standing and truck mounted pumps and extraction tools to remove water and lessen the risk of fungus growing under your carpet or pad. 
 
SERVPRO of Laurel  recommends putting in a call to us at the first sign of mold in your home. Our IICRC certified technicians come prepared to set up containment to protect the rest of your home before getting to work on thoroughly cleaning the affected area. We use powerful HEPA vacuums to vacuum loose spores from surfaces, along with a combination of sanding, wire brush scrubbing, dusting, and wiping with a detergent solution to ensure each surface is properly cleaned of mold. We also use negative air machines when needed, to vent contaminated air outside your home. 
 
When mold cleaning is complete, our trained experts bring in dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the affected room, carpet, or area back to its normal level of dryness and discourage further growth. 
 
If you suspect mold growth in your home, give SERVPRO of Laurel a call at (601)425-0119 today.

The process of drying your home after an appliance leak.

9/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel can help dry your home from a water damage caused by an appliance malfunction.

Most flooding problems in homes come from the inside, rather than from a rising creek or river. In many of these cases, the problem results from a failed dishwasher or a split intake hose for a clothes washer.

Appliance flood damage sounds simple, but the truth is very different. A failure of either of these machines can drop over five gallons of water on the floor every hour. SERVPRO of Laurel knows that if this happens in the morning after everyone leaves for work, that means an entire, three-bedroom room can be under an inch of water before the homeowner or renter walks in to find a disaster.

The advantage to dealing with flooding from such an inside source is that it is clean water. There is no contamination from the water to have to worry about, so there is no need for special protective gear and since cleaning the surfaces is not required, the overall time necessary for the job is far less as well.

The first step we take is to stop the flow of water. If a resident has not turned off the water main, we do it immediately after arriving on the property.

Next, we get to work removing standing water. For any amount over an inch, we start with commercial grade water pumps. These machines can empty out an average home in an afternoon, allowing us to bring in more equipment and inspect for damage to floors, carpets, and walls. If the power is out, we bring in our generators for uninterrupted electrical support.

If there is no permanent damage, we draw out remaining water trapped on carpets and floors. Technicians use extraction wands which are designed to bring out the water without harming wood surfaces or damaging the nap of the rug. This part of the job is more time-consuming and can take up to a full day or more.

With the water removed, we now lower the moisture levels in the surrounding air. To do so, we use dehumidifiers to draw moisture out of the air. Each device can remove over twenty gallons every day depending on the humidity and size of the dehumidifier we use. We perform this task to prevent the possibility of rot or mold growth in the walls and floors.

Drying out your home is not an easy process, but the right restoration company can do it quickly and safely. SERVPRO of Laurel has years of experience helping our neighbors put their homes back together after a flood. If you need our help, call today at 601-425-0119

Helpful tips and advice in the case of a damage to your home or business.

9/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

SERVPRO is a franchise company. SERVPRO has been in business for over 50 years. Experience, coupled with training, has made given them quite a bit of knowledge to pass on to their clients. SERVPRO of Laurel is owned and staffed by highly trained and specialized personnel that really desire to help you in whatever  cleanup or recovery situation you find yourself in. There are many things that you can do and many you shouldn't do before SERVPRO arrives to help you with your fire, water damage, smoke damage, vandalism, or even harmful waste issues. The "do's and don'ts" so to speak.

For instance with fire or smoke damage -

DO

. Limit your movement in the home or business to prevent soot particles from becoming embedded in upholstery or carpets

. Keep your hands clean. Soot transfers easily and can damage many surfaces including woodwork

DON'T

. attempt to wash walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Laurel

. Consume any canned or packaged food or beverage that may have been close to the fire

With Water Damage..

DO

. Shut off water source if possible

. Turn off circuit breakers fro wet areas of the building

DON'T

. Enter rooms with standing water where electrical hazards may exist

. Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet

Be prepared for all emergencies by learning all you can about what to do until help arrives.

An extensive list can be obtained by calling SERVPRO of Laurel  

601-425-0119

Do you have a Fire Extinguisher?

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Having a fire extinguisher available can be a first line of defense if a fire happens in your home or business.

You could save your home from fire with a fire extinguisher at your ready.

Close your eyes and imagine. You’re at home, or maybe in the office, and you smell ... smoke? Definitely smoke. Fire! You don’t panic, because you’re not the type and you’re prepared. You grab the nearest fire estinguisher, find the flames. You get ready, aim.... and suddenly realize you don’t know how this thing works.

Fire extinguishers can be the first line of defense if fire breaks out in your home or business, but they won’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use them or have the wrong extinguisher for the job. When it comes to fire, plan, prepare and remain calm. Knowing how, when and why to use your fire extinguisher—not to mention which fire extinguisher to use—will increase both your safety and peace of mind knowing you can protect you and your belonging from fire damage.

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Home or office, when a fire breaks out you have moments to decide: fight or flight? If you feel even the slightest doubt about handling it yourself, move everyone to a safe place and call 911. Ditto if you don’t know how to use your extinguisher or aren’t sure it’s the right class for the fire you’re fighting; better to let the pros handle it than to try to navigate the learning curve mid-fire.

If you decide you can safely put out the fire, grab the extinguisher and get busy, after you locate a safe way out. If you spot a clear exit but it doesn’t look to stay clear long, get out now.

What Kind of Extinguisher to Use
Home- and business owners can choose from five types of fire extinguishers:

• Class A: for a fire involving normal combustibles and flammables, including cloth, paper and wood
• Class B: for a fire involving flammable liquids like gas, oil, paint, paint thinner and solvents
• Class C: to fight a fire involving electrical equipment/appliances that are plugged in and receiving power—electric drills, table saws, computer equipment, televisions, wiring and fuse boxes, for example
• Class D: to put out a fire involving combustible metals—magnesium, sodium, zirconium, etc. (Note: Don’t try to fight this kind of fire unless you’ve been specifically trained for it!)
• Class K: for fires typically found in restaurants, involving cooking oil and commercial-grade cooking equipment

Some fires involve several or all of the above. Fortunately, fire extinguishers are labeled not only with the types of fire they’re designed to fight, but with the types of fire you should avoid using them on. Example: Never use a Class A extinguisher on a Class B or C fire—the results could be deadly!

Fire Extinguisher How-to

1. Stand six to eight feet away from the flames.
2. Make sure you have a clear exit, in case the fire spreads or flames out of control.
3. Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever.
4. Aim the hose at the base of the fire.
5. Press the lever located above the handle to release the agent.
6. Use a back-and-forth sweeping motion to saturate the base of the fire until the flames are extinguished.
7. Continue the process if the fire re-ignites.
8. If the fire doesn’t go out or spreads, get to safety.

Extinguisher Safety Tips

• Install fire extinguishers in areas where fires are likely to break out, including kitchens and break rooms.
• Check periodically to make sure all fire extinguishers are fully charged.
• Show every family member or employee where the fire extinguishers and fire alarms are located.
• Train yourself, your loved ones and your co-workers to use the equipment properly.

Even with a fire extinguisher, some fire damage will occur. When this happens, call your local SERVPRO at 601-425-0119. 

The costly affects of a fire in your home.

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel is ready help you return life back to normal if you experience a fire in your home or business.

Fire is one of our most valuable resources.  We use it to cook our food, heat our homes, power our world and so much more.  However, when it comes to our homes, fire can also be one of our worst enemies.  Each year, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), nearly 358,300 home-owners experience a fire.  Nearly, $10.3 billion in property damage and 3,280 deaths were due to residential fires in 2015 alone.  Residential fires accounted for three-quarters of all structure fires during 2015.  At SERVPRO of Laurel, we have seen first-hand the devastation that fire can cause.  We take pride in helping customers get their lives back on track in the wake of a disaster; but our wish is that they never go through that experience.  Knowledge is power when it comes to prevention and we want to share information that can help you protect your home.  Cooking is the leading cause of residential fires followed by home heating.  When cooking be sure to never leave anything on or near the stove and use caution when frying.  If you have central heating, make sure to have ducts cleaned regularly to prevent buildup and reduce the chance of fire. Dryer vents should also be cleaned annually.  Clothes dryers cause an estimated 2,900 fires each year, causing over $35 million in property losses. Call us today at (601)425-0119 to schedule your HVAC or dryer vent cleaning and protect your home.

Can flooring be saved after a flood?

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

After a flood, many homeowners and property managers wonder if their carpet and pad can be saved.  The answer is, it depends.  Factors such as the age and quality of the carpet and pad, as well as the type of installation used, have to be taken into consideration. However, the type of floodwater that caused the damage is most important when determining whether or not carpet and padding can be salvaged.

There are 3 water categories that determine whether the carpet and padding can be restored to their pre-disaster condition:

• Category 1 (clean water): non-contaminated water that may come from a broken pipe, sink, etc. After the water has been extracted, carpets and pads can be dried and restored in place.
• Category 2 (gray water): dirty water that has been released by sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers, etc. The carpet can usually be restored if it has been wet for less than 48 hours. The pad is replaced in most cases.
• Category 3 (black water): water containing dangerous contaminants that may originate from sewage and toilet backflows as well as from floods caused by natural disasters. To protect your family’s health, carpets and pads should be removed, discarded and replaced.

Since every water damage situation is different, you cannot know for sure if or when your carpet and pad can be salvaged until you have a professional restoration company inspect the situation.

The faster you report the disaster, the lower the costs will be. If you’re dealing with a flooding problem, contact  SERVPRO of Laurel today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist at 601-425-0119.

Three areas SERVPRO can help during Fire Restoration.

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel removed the fire damaged contents and inventoried the damaged property.

It's happened! Fire has affected your life and now you are wondering how to move on! How much can be done? What can be salvaged? Is there a way to restore my valuables or my damaged structure?

Fire, Smoke, and Soot restoration is an area that SERVPRO of Laurel definitely has both experience and great successes. There are usually three main areas of concern: Structural cleaning, contents cleaning, and deodorization.

STRUCTURAL CLEANING-After a fire or smoke damage the ceilings, walls, rugs, carpeting, and all the floors will often need to be thoroughly cleaned. SERVPRO will begin by testing to see the extent of the damage and then use specific equipment and products required to both clean and protect the surfaces in your home.

CONTENTS CLEANING-All of the contents in your home that can be restored will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. Rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery will be carefully inspected and tested to determine what cleaning process and products will be required and effective. SERVPRO provides both wet and dry cleaning services. Other items that may be restored are art, electronics, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac, and much much more.

DEODORIZATION- SERVPRO professionals provide specialized services to totally rid your home of the offensive odors that fire and smoke leave behind. The source of the odors is sought out and removed and not just the lingering fragrances. SERVPRO will be happy to explain the processes and methods available.

SERVPRO OF LAUREL 601-425-0119

Commercial Restoration Services

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

When it comes to commercial cleaning and restoration services, SERVPRO is a leader in the industry. Available 24 hours a day and seven days a week, SERVPRO of Laurel responds quickly to your business’s fire, water, and mold damage emergencies.

Commercial Restoration Services

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm and Major Events
• Disaster Recovery Team

For Emergency Services, Call 24/7 –

(601)425-0119

In addition to Commercial Restoration Services, SERVPRO of Laurel offers Commercial Cleaning Services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing bio-hazard contaminants. We have the specialized equipment, various products, and skilled cleaning methods to make your business look its very best. 

Commercial Cleaning Services

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Bio-hazard and Sewage
• Post-Construction Clean
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

When the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Laurel has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of Laurel specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 601-425-0119

Why and how to create a Business Continuity Plan.

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Don't wait for a storm to hit to start planning. Call SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119.

A wide variety of vulnerabilities in your business may lead to loss of income and customer loyalty when a disaster occurs. A business continuity plan, also referred to as an emergency response plan is a technique you may use to identify and prepare for potential problems, keeping your activities running with the least disruption possible.

5 Steps To Create a Plan

To make the process easier, the creation process is broken down into five steps. Consider each part with your business’s needs.

1. Business Impact Analysis: This is a questionnaire that allows you and your managers to assess potential emergencies and the materials required to deal with them. Preparation, distribution and evaluation of results are usually necessary elements of this first step in your business continuity plan.

2. Recovery Strategies: These are plans that allow you to analyze resource needs, the gaps between the required resources and those currently available, managerial choices of strategies to be used and action on those decisions.

3. Plan Development: This is the laying out of the actual emergency response plan, the arrangement of teams to implement recovery from the disaster, production of documentation and approval by management.

4. Training: This is the preparation of the team responsible for continuity actions.

5. Testing and Exercises: This is the creation of training and evaluation materials, which are then tried and implemented.

Value of the Plan for Your Business

An emergency response plan provides a clear, deliberate and well-thought-out way to deal with potential disasters at your business facility. Employees and management should be trained in the procedures that should make a crucial difference in the rapid recovery of your business.

Guidance in Developing Your Plan

There are online materials that provide detailed information on how to create your business continuity plan. Some of these materials are aimed at specific types of emergency services such as IT repair or commercial water damage mitigation.

Having SERVPRO of perform an ERP on your business is a great way to begin the process.

Call SERVPRO of Laurel at

(601)425-0119

Flooding Facts

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel is here to help, Call (601) 425-0119.

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. FEMA reports, in the last 8 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. As most of us have recently experienced, nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas. 

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA:

• Flash floods can bring walls of water from 10 to 20 feet high.
• Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.
• Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires. 
• A 2,000 square foot home undergoing 12 feet of water damage could cost more than $50,000 to repair.

Here are a few supplies you need to prepare for a flood:

• Stock up on First Aid items
• Non-perishable foods
• Three gallons of water per person for 3 days
• Battery operated radio for weather reports
• Extra batteries
• Personal hygiene necessities

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of Laurel specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 601-425-0119

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team. (601)425-0119.

Did you know that SERVPRO has a specialized storm team and large loss response network to provide the resources to your property when others can’t? In the event of a disaster, SERVPRO professionals have the resources to relocate crews with equipment to take care of all of our customer’s needs. SERVPRO strategically places mobilization teams across the country to travel when needed to support in recovery after large storm events such as hurricanes. Our job as water damage restoration professionals is to limit the amount of business interruption. We understand that fast mitigation is key to getting your business back up and running. SERVPRO provides the resources in the event of a large storm event to make sure that the right equipment, procedures and training are in place to ensure that the structure is dry the first time and saves you time and money.

Do you have questions about how SERVPRO of Laurel can help you prepare for a disaster? Contact us today at (601) 425-0119!

Emergency Ready Profile - ERP

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, you can be ruined or you can be ready. SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

As a homeowner you always want to make sure you have emergency contacts close by in case anything unexpected happens. What if you are a homeowner but also a business owner? I know personally I couldn't imagine the amount of stress! SERVPRO realizes that you might not think about the unexpected things that might happen to your business; flooding, tornado damage, etc. 

That's why we have our Emergency Ready Program available to you! Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster, plan for it now! As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
 The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage A no cost assessment of your facility. – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. – This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. – You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. – This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. – Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”  Give us a call today and set up your ERP!

Stay Safe From Summer Storms

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

STAY SAFE FROM SUMMER STORMS! SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

While the spring season is known for the potential to experience severe weather, the threat exists throughout the summer months as well. In fact, the potential for severe weather increases in some areas.  Hurricane season in the Atlantic begins June 1st and runs through November 30th.  The Eastern Pacific hurricane season begins May 15th also ending November 30th.

While it may be difficult to prepare for the unpredictable, there are steps you can take now to help ensure you are ready when disaster strikes.  One way to prepare your business for any type of disaster, is to establish an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP).  Contact SERVPRO of Laurel to learn more about the ERP and how it can help you.  Consider the following tips when preparing for an approaching storm.

BEFORE THE STORM:

- Build an emergency supply kit and develop a communication plan.

- Unplug any electronic equipment before the storm arrives.

- Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.

- If you are outdoors, get inside a building, home, or hard top vehicle (not a convertible)

- Shutter windows and secure outside doors.  If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.

DURING THE STORM:

- Use your battery operated NOAA Weather radio for updates from local officials.

- Avoid contact with corded phones.  Cordless and cellular phones are safe to use.

-  Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords.

- Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers.  Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.

- Avoid contact with plumbing.  Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.

- Stay away from windows and doors.

AFTER THE STORM:

- Never drive through a flooded roadway.

- Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk.

- Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.

EMERGENCY SUPPY KIT:

- water (one gallon per person per day)

- Food (non-perishable 3 day supply)

- Manual can opener

- Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA

- Flashlight and extra batteries

- First aid kit

- Whistle to signal for help

- Clothing

- Dust mask or bandanas

- Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape

- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

- Hygiene items

- Important document: copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information

- Cash

- Fire extinguisher

- Matches in a waterproof container

Grease Fire 101

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

Grease fires happen quickly. You may be frying some bacon or chicken and all of a sudden your kitchen is on fire. Do you know how to put out a grease fire?

There are several things that can and should be done, as long as it is safe to do them:

1. Turn off the heat source.

2. Cover the flames with a metal lid. This works for small grease fires. Fire has to have oxygen to survive and placing a lid over the flames will cut off the oxygen supply causing the flames to extinguish themselves. 

3. Pour baking soda on the flames. This only works for small fires. But a word of caution, it will take a large amount to extinguish small flames. 

4. As a last resort, or if the flames are too large for the previously mentioned methods, use a Class B Dry Chemical fire extinguisher. Use of a fire extinguisher will result in much more clean up needed, but it's better than letting a grease fire destroy your entire home. 

5. Call 9-1-1. 

NEVER, use water to try and put out a grease fire. This will cause the grease to splatter and the fire to spread. Also, do not move the pot/skillet around, as this could cause the fire to spread as well. 

Why Choose SERVPRO of Laurel?

6/6/2019 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO of Laurel?

As an agent, adjuster, or any kind of insurance professional, you have a number of responsibilities.  Of these responsibilities are recommending reputable service companies to your clients as well as keeping claims costs down for your company.  SERVPRO Laurel is a highly qualified and trustworthy company that fill many needs to your clients when they find themselves in the middle of a fire or water loss.

TIMING

Arriving at a loss in a timely manner reduces damage and therefore reduces the cost of restoring damaged property.  An immediate response is vital to limiting damage, and SERVPRO of Laurel strives to arrive on the scene as quickly as possible.  This falls in line with taking care of both the home or business owner in conjunction with limiting costs for the insurance provider.

PRETESTING

Replacing property is far more costly than restoring property.  Pretesting is a necessary step in the restoration process to determine the level of damage and dictate the necessary actions to begin restoration.  A lack of pretesting could cause the quality or scope of the work to diminish which leads to unhappy clients.  Your SERVPRO of Laurel professionals will always pretest the site in order to determine the extent of damage and the proper course of action to restore the property.

TRAINING

Proper training is ideal for providing your clients the best service possible.  Your SERVPRO of Laurel franchise professionals are trained to industry standards in Fire and Water cleanup and restoration.  

Timing, pretesting, and training are just a few of the reasons that insurance professionals and companies can trust SERVPRO of Laurel to take the best care of their clients while limiting costs by restoring in place of replacing property.

DIRTY DUCTS

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Do You Have Dirty Ducts?

Improve your indoor air quality with duct cleaning.

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

A routine part of your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary.

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

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

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

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

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals today.

Source: Residential Newsline Volume 17 Issue 4

Water Proofing Your Commercial Building

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Inspect Your Commercial Building and Keep It Weatherproof

Is your Laurel,MS business in a building that is comfortable, dry and weatherproof? If so, thank the heroes responsible for exterior maintenance. It is their job to keep your building maintained. Proper maintenance ensures that the weather stays outside where it belongs.

Damage to the exterior lets in the weather. Some, like broken windows, is obvious and demands immediate attention. Other damage starts tiny and grows into serious maintenance problems.

Examples of minor damage are:

Small holes in siding
Loose or cracked windows
Gaps around vents, pipes and other exterior features
Damaged masonry
Routine Inspections Are the Key to Preventive Maintenance

Every building has problems that are easy to overlook. They don’t interfere with the business operation, so they go unreported. The first step in fixing them is finding them. The best way to identify them is through a complete building inspection. Think of this as a close inspection of the building with the help of a checklist. Here are some of the tasks that an exterior maintenance inspection might include:

1. Inspect the roof. Look for areas where the roofing material needs repair. Check the vents, air conditioner and other features attached to the roof to make sure they won’t leak. Check the gutters and downspouts. Make sure that rain water will flow down and away from the building.
2. Inspect the walls. Look for openings that might let water in. A structural engineer can help you determine if there is water damage.
3. Inspect the masonry. Areas that are failing might provide a path for water to get inside. Bring in a professional to check the situation.
4. Inspect the doors and windows. Make sure that they stop the flow of air and water.
Some exterior maintenance problems can’t wait.

One of these is water damage. There are local water damage restoration specialists ready to come to your aid. They are just a phone call away.

2019 Hurricane Season

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting a near normal 2019 Atlantic hurricane season. They’re predicting anywhere from 9-15 named storms. In the range of 4-8 becoming hurricanes and out of those 2-4 becoming major hurricanes. The NOAA states that the ongoing El Nino is expected to persist and supress the intensity of the hurricane season. In contrast there is an expected combination of warmer-than-average sea-surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, and an enhanced west African monsoon, both of which favor increased hurricane activity. 

With all of the sophisticated technology, next-generation models and satellite data; this helps decision makers and the general public the ability to take action before, during and after hurricanes. After the 2018 Hurricane season, specifically Hurricanes Florence and Michael, Residents can use this information to be better prepared for the upcoming 2019 season.

Source: www.noaa.gov/media-release/noaa-predicts-near-normal-2019-atlantic-hurricane-season

SERVPRO of Laurel Can Restore Your Commercial or Residential Property from Storm Damage

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

What you want is access to a quality restoration company when recovering from storm damage in your Laurel, MS area business. We have strategically located restoration teams with several years of experience helping businesses just like yours recover from storm damage throughout the area and all of the resources needed to assist you and your neighbors when an emergency situation strikes.

SERVPRO of Laurel has a special DRT division (Disaster Ready Team), who expertly trained teams composed of quality water, fire, mold, storm, and major event technicians, designed to assist you with cutting costs and saving time associated with the restoration of your business after a disaster. All of these teams are lead by an operations manager that assists with seamless communication and timely mitigation involving the recovery of your business. Services that SERVPRO of Laurel provides to every business owner involves the mitigation of the wind, rain, and flood damage that causes substantial damage in a matter of minutes, requiring an immediate response and quick, efficient implementation to prevent excessive loss of revenue and productivity. It does not matter how small or large your property is; SERVPRO of Laurel has the services, equipment, and personnel available to address the emergency affecting your business. We provide you with access to expertly trained storm and water damage restoration specialists, as well as cleaning and building preparation services to manage your restoration project from start to finish. Any storm can cause severe damage to your property when you are ill-prepared. Give us a call to help fortify your property against the wind, flood, storm, and tornado damage that this type of phenomenon generates. We can help protect your business and get things under control when everything is said and done. Contact SERVPRO of Laurel at (601) 425-0119 for the professional restoration and cleaning services your company requires.

What Do You Know About Bio Hazards?

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

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

SERVPRO of Laurel professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove bio hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA and State and Local health regulations. Along with these requirements comes compassion to get through these tough situations that impact our customers.  Each and every trained technician shows compassion toward our customers.

SERVPRO of Laurel professionals can help with the following issues:

Blood borne Pathogens

Crime Scene Residue

Arson

Vandalism

Sewage Backups

Black Water Intrusions

Please contact us at SERVPRO of Laurel for any questions concerning Biohazard Cleanups (601) 425-0119

Mold in your Home or Business? SERVPRO of Laurel can Help.

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold issues.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (601) 425-0119

Get Advice and Tips from the Pros

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a franchise company. SERVPRO has been in business for over 35 years. Experience, coupled with training, has made given them quite a bit of knowledge to pass on to their clients. SERVPRO of Laurel is owned and staffed by highly trained and specialized personnel that really desire to help you in whatever  cleanup or recovery situation you find yourself in. There are many things that you can do and many you shouldn't do before SERVPRO arrives to help you with your fire, water damage, smoke damage, vandalism, or even harmful waste issues. The "do's and don'ts" so to speak.

For instance with fire or smoke damage -

DO

. Limit your movement in the home or business to prevent soot particles from becoming embedded in upholstery or carpets

. Keep your hands clean. Soot transfers easily and can damage many surfaces including woodwork

DON'T

. attempt to wash walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Laurel

. Consume any canned or packaged food or beverage that may have been close to the fire

With Water Damage..

DO

. Shut off water source if possible

. Turn off circuit breakers fro wet areas of the building

DON'T

. Enter rooms with standing water where electrical hazards may exist

. Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet

Be prepared for all emergencies by learning all you can about what to do until help arrives.

An extensive list can be obtained by calling SERVPRO of Laurel  

601-425-0119

Did You Know?

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

The list of services offered by SERVPRO of Laurel may just surprise you! While it may not be something you have recently considered, maybe a moment of explanation about SERVPRO's many services would help you enjoy some peace of mind.

We all invest time, resources, and lots of energy to protect and even increase the value of our home. Your home is your castle and it leaves some sort of impression to everyone who is a guest. SERVPRO of Laurel is committed to assisting you with the resources you need to tackle a host of potential issues in your home and at a fair price.

SERVPRO professionals offer fire, smoke, and soot cleanup and restoration, water removal and dehumidification, mold prevention services, contents claim and inventory services, air duct and HVAC cleaning, carpet and hardwood floor cleaning and care, cleaning of upholstery and drapes with both wet and dry cleaning methods, odor identification and deodorization, as well as stain removal and stain resistant applications!

That is quite a list of services for your peace of mind and the maintenance or protection of your home. Call SERVPRO of Laurel for more details or for a quote for your needs! (601)425-0119

Power Outages

3/17/2019 (Permalink)

Power Outages

Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may:

• Disrupt communications, water, and transportation.

• Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks, and other services.

• Cause food spoilage and water contamination.

• Prevent use of medical devices.

PROTECT YOURSELF DURING A POWER OUTAGE:

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.

• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.

• Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.

• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.

• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.

• If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling.

• Check on neighbors.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A POWER OUTAGE THREATENS: 

Prepare NOW

• Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.
• Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
• Plan for batteries and other alternatives to meet your needs when the power goes out.
• Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. Monitor weather reports.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home.
• Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.
• Review the supplies that are available in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member. Have enough nonperishable food and water.
• Use a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer so that you can know the temperature when the power is restored. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
• Keep mobile phones and other electric equipment charged and gas tanks full.

https://www.ready.gov/power-outages

What's That Smell

3/17/2019 (Permalink)

It has happened to you just like it has happened to most people. You have a pungent odor in your home and you can't get rid of it. Sometimes its because of an overflow, a spill, or even a dead rodent but the smell is almost unbearable!SERVPRO of Laurel can, under most circumstances help!

Identifying where the smell is coming from and then deep cleaning the areas professionally is one way to assist you on your road to restoring the pleasantness. SERVPRO of Laurel will also use specialized equipment for deodarization of your home, business, place of worship, or any other area of concern. The processes used do not merely cover the odors but actually remove them.

Next time you are dealing with odors and smells that just linger and stay give the experts a call and allow SERVPRO to put your mind at ease and the odors that plague your home or business away for good.

SERVPRO of Laurel - 601-425-0119

Mold Tips

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

Mold is the enemy of every homeowner. Mold looks unsightly, smells bad, and can cause damage to your soft furnishings, carpets, clothes, and even your appliances or the structure of your home itself. Often the first sign of mold is a glimpse of discoloration on a wall or ceiling, or maybe noticing that telltale moldy smell in a bathroom or laundry room.

 
However, spores can grow in hidden places, too. You can reduce the risk of the fungus growing unnoticed and causing mold damage to your residence home by being proactive about looking for evidence of mold. SERVPRO recommends you check the following places for hidden contamination. 
 
Chimneys 
Chimneys are cold and can easily get damp from rain or even snow. Brickwork provides plenty of hidden crevices for spores to grow in. Make sure your chimney flashing is in good condition and replace it if need be. An annual visit from a chimney sweep is a good idea, too. 
 
Kitchen Appliances 
Most kitchen appliances get washed after every use, but there are still some hidden areas you must check regularly. Take a look at refrigerator drip trays, the door and seal of front-loading washing machines, and refrigerator and freezer seals. You can deal with mild cases using a weak bleach solution followed by a quick wipe with white vinegar. 
 
Carpets and Carpet Pads 
Carpets and carpet pads provide an environment where mold can propagate unnoticed, especially if a carpet gets wet. If your floor coverings get wet, call us at once. Our skilled teams come with free standing and truck mounted pumps and extraction tools to remove water and lessen the risk of fungus growing under your carpet or pad. 
 
SERVPRO of Laurel  recommends putting in a call to us at the first sign of mold in your home. Our IICRC certified technicians come prepared to set up containment to protect the rest of your home before getting to work on thoroughly cleaning the affected area. We use powerful HEPA vacuums to vacuum loose spores from surfaces, along with a combination of sanding, wire brush scrubbing, dusting, and wiping with a detergent solution to ensure each surface is properly cleaned of mold. We also use negative air machines when needed, to vent contaminated air outside your home. 
 
When mold cleaning is complete, our trained experts bring in dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the affected room, carpet, or area back to its normal level of dryness and discourage further growth. 
 
If you suspect mold growth in your home, give SERVPRO of Laurel a call at (601)425-0119 today.

When Storms Hit, We Are Ready!!!

3/14/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage Specialists

SERVPRO of Laurel specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition. 

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Jones county and the surrounding areas we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams  that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (601) 425-0119

Commercial Client Benefits

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Multi-family, Residential and Commercial Property Managers

At SERVPRO of Laurel we understand the value of a quick response and fast turn around time when it comes to an emergency situation for a commercial and residential property. A quick response time can mean a reduction in the size and scope of the damage, and the difference between having a chance at saving business critical documents and equipment for the clients that are most important to you.

Commercial Client Benefits

Choosing SERVPRO of Laurel for your commercial damage mitigation accrues you benefits not limited to:

• Working with you to tailor the solution to you, priding ourselves in accurate and straightforward communication.

• SERVPRO is the leader in commercial damage mitigation.

• Every large commercial loss is supervised by a local commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

• The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

Mold and Mildew Staines

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Dealing with nasty mold and mildew are common cleaning issues that can arise within your home or business.  Unfortunately, our Mississippi climate can give mold and mildew the perfect conditions to grow and thrive in, and can be found anywhere from damp clothing to upholstered furniture and carpets. 

When you find mold and mildew on your furniture and carpets, and need professional help to get rid of it properly, our expert service professionals at SERVPRO of Laurel will use our state of the art equipment to help you take care of your mold issue quickly and safely. 

However, if your mold and mildew problems are less catastrophic here are a few simple tips to help you remove mold and mildew from…  

...white-cotton clothing

Apply a solution of one part bleach to three parts water to the stain and allow the solution to sit for 5-10 minutes, then wash as directed.

...non-bleachable clothing

If the article of clothing cannot be bleached, try removing the mold with lemon juice or white vinegar. Soak a cotton pad in lemon juice or vinegar and place it on the stain. Allow the solution to soak for several minutes. Then, remove the cotton pad, and sprinkle the area with some salt to further boost the effect of the acid. If possible, place the item in a sunny spot to dry. The sun rays will also bleach stains. Repeat as needed, then wash the garment as usual.

If the mildew stain persists, bring the article to a professional dry cleaner.

...grout and walls

To clean mildew and mold effectively from walls and grout, mix a solution of one part bleach to three parts water. Dampen (don’t soak) a sponge with the solution and apply it to the moldy areas. As the mildew disappears, dry the area using an old towel.

...upholstery

If your upholstered furniture has water damage and a substantial amount of mold growth, it should be replaced.

However, if there's only a small mold stain, you can try using a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Blot it on the mold and allow it to work for a minute or so. Rinse solution from the area by alternately dabbing it with a damp cloth or sponge and a dry cotton cloth. This probably will not remove the mold, but it may help lessen the stain.

Consult the professionals at SERVPRO of Laurel if the stain persists or reappears.

Levels of Commercial Damage in Laurel, MS

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel handles not only residential damage and restoration but commercial as well.

There are three levels of commercial damage that are considered:

Level 1

Level 1 is a small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Level 2 is a midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Level 3 is a large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include, but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.”

Once our team determines the level of loss, the property is further assessed, and a team of appropriate size is dispatched to get the job done quickly and efficiently, and return your business to operation “Like it never even happened.”®

We Can Reduce Flood Damage in Your Laurel Home

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Stands Ready to Help Laurel Properties After Flooding

Flood waters contain contaminants like chemicals, raw sewage, and dead animals, which is why you should never hesitate to call in the professionals. Our techs set goals to make your home clean and safe after storm waters enter your house. Whenever it is possible, our crews can restore your home to its pre-storm condition. Plus, they strive to preserve many of the contents inside your home. 
 
SERVPRO flood damage teams in Laurel, MS are highly trained and come ready to get to work when they arrive. The first step the team takes on is stopping the flow of water from entering your home. Hopefully, that has already occurred. Next, they start extracting the water with various pieces of equipment such as a truck-mounted or portable extractor, wands and pumps that can remove water from the structure fast. The type of machinery we employ depends on the amount of water inside affected areas. 
 
Many flooding situations may require the need for our teams to remove items from the house. When we do remove contents, our technicians keep an inventory of every item during the pack-out stage. Typically, clothing, furniture, and paper documents are sitting in several inches of contaminated water. Our crew can remove and clean all salvageable items with industrial cleaning products. Plus, they can use EPA-registered antimicrobial sprays to sanitize your items before bringing back inside your home. Ultrasonic cleaning can also restore possessions that our customers believed were lost.
 
Drying the area is also an essential process during restoration. Our team can use air scrubbers to clean the air. Plus, they can utilize air movers and axial fans to enhance drying. In all cases, we use dehumidifiers to absorb water vapor. Heaters may also be put in place to target specific areas. 
 
SERVPRO of Laurel flood damage restoration services are fast and ready to help. We are available 24/7 to assist you in your time of need. If a flood ever occurs in your home, call us at (601) 425-0119 right away.

House Fire Season

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

We often hear about a particular time of the year as being the “season for house fires,” meaning house fire disasters are on the rise from that month forward.  It is usually associated with colder weather when we start to use more home heating.  When it comes to your home, however, there is no “season” for a fire.  It can strike at any time.  The sad fact is that 2,500 people will be killed in fires over the next year.  13,000 people will suffer serious injuries related to fires and the loss of property – in terms of real dollars – will be more than $7 Billion!

SERVPRO of Laurel provides expert restoration services if you have experienced a house fire.  If that is your situation now, please call (601) 425-0199 so we can begin restoring your home.  The residue left from a fire, known as soot, presents hidden dangers if not properly removed from your home and your possessions.  Soot is acidic in nature and within hours to days, it will begin to decay or even destroy whatever surface it comes in contact with.

Our homes are a collection of different types of materials, all of which represent unique risks once they have been exposed to the heat from a fire.  The structure itself is composed of wood and sheetrock.  Electrical wiring is wrapped with plastics and rubber.  Insulation is found in attics and behind walls.  Floors are made of wooden materials that have been coated with chemicals to preserve their beauty, or covered with synthetic materials found in carpets.  Each presents its own set of risks.  The water used to extinguish the fire also presents a different set of problems for furniture that comes in contact with it and personal belongings left on floors. 

SERVPRO of Laurel technicians are trained to determine what can be salvaged and what needs to be discarded.  Each home contains items of sentimental value like pictures and heirlooms.  Until help arrives, pictures need to be removed from glass frames as quickly as possible so they can dry unless they have become stuck to the glass.  Valuable items like jewelry, weapons, ammunition, financial papers and other personal items should be removed from the home for safe keeping. 

Our restoration specialists treat the damaged contents of your home with the utmost respect and care.  Once cleaned and restored, we will safely store your property until your home is ready for your return.  Our job is to make your loss “Like it never even happened.” 

Emergency Ready Profile

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

As a homeowner you always want to make sure you have emergency contacts close by in case anything unexpected happens. What if you are a homeowner but also a business owner? I know personally I couldn't imagine the amount of stress! SERVPRO realizes that you might not think about the unexpected things that might happen to your business; flooding, tornado damage, etc. 

That's why we have our Emergency Ready Program available to you! Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster, plan for it now! As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
 The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage A no cost assessment of your facility. – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. – This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. – You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. – This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. – Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”  Give us a call today and set up your ERP!

Restaurant Restoration - Common Causes of Restaurant Fires

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Agency, there are over 3,500 restaurant fires reported each year in the United States. These fires are estimated to cost about $84 million in property damage every year. The majority of these fires are started in the cooking area of the restaurants.

Even though the rates have reduced over the years, restaurant fires are still a major concern today. You may have your smoke alarms up to code and working properly, but we all know that commercial cooking operations have a multitude of fire hazards.

5 Common Restaurant Fire Safety Issues 

• Vent hood doesn’t cover all the cooking appliances: When fire starts on a cooking appliance that isn’t properly covered by a vent hood, it can’t be easily controlled and may burn down the whole kitchen.
• Inadequate cleaning of the exhaust systems: Exhaust systems usually accumulate grease which is highly inflammable and could pose a serious fire threat. Regular maintenance of the exhaust systems will come a long way in ensuring that your restaurant is safe from fire damage.
• Incorrectly installed baffle filters: These filters are specifically designed to collect grease. If they are incorrectly installed, grease may accumulate on the hood and pose a serious fire threat.
• Inadequate separation or partition between fryers and cooking appliances: Without adequate space between these two items, cooking oil can easily splash into flames and cause a fire. Ensure there is at least 16 inches of separation or use a thick noncombustible metal divider.
• Dirty vents, ceiling, hoods, and work areas: Lack of proper hygiene and sanitation in a commercial kitchen is a major risk of restaurant fires. Dirty surfaces can easily be ignited by a small flame and cause a huge fire disaster.

Call SERVPRO for Restaurant Restoration

In addition to these common causes, lack of proper fire prevention equipment and skills is also another contributing factor. As a restaurant owner , ensure that your staff is properly trained on the basic fire prevention and safety practices. 

But if the damage is already done, you have a second chance with SERVPRO. We offer top-notch and quick restaurant restoration services in the Laurel area. Don’t let a mere fire shatter your dreams. We will restore your restaurant in no time.

Call us at 601-425-0119

How a Commercial Fire Damage Company Will Restore Your Business

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

How a Commercial Fire Damage Company Will Restore Your Business

Were you a recent victim of a fire in your home or a fire in your business? Are you dealing with a horrible smoke smell? Are you trying to clean up smoke damage and soot damage? Do not try to deal with the commercial fire damage and the fire cleanup process by yourself. You should not even enter your home or your business before calling a fire restoration company. There may be safety hazards. The structure may cave in at any moment, and there may be broken shards of glass that can hurt you. The smoke smell can also be dangerous.

It is imperative that you call a professional restoration company as soon as you possibly can. They will do an assessment of your burnt home and take in all of the fire damage. They will come up with a plan of action for the restoration of your home and for dealing with the commercial fire damage.

The first thing the restoration company will do is board up the holes in your walls and your broken windows. You need to board up the holes before you take care of the water damage, or else more water may enter your home through those holes when it rains, thus undoing your work. A professional restoration company will use tarps or wood boards to board up those holes. The holes that need boarding up include the holes caused by the fire and the holes caused by the firefighters; they often make holes to make sure that the fire is not still burning behind the wall. Boarding up the holes is the first step of dealing with commercial fire damage.

After doing that, the fire damage restoration service will start removing the water from your home. Water that was used to put out the fire in your home or the fire in your business can cause serious damage. It can soak your furniture and your walls. You will need flood pumps to pump out the water. You will need special tools to dry out your walls, your furniture, and your carpets. A professional fire damage restoration service has the tools that are necessary to deal with commercial fire damage.

The next step in dealing with the fire damage is dealing with the smoke damage, also referred to as the soot damage. Your walls will likely be blackened. They will need to be cleaned from all the soot that covers them. They will be grayed by the smoke, and you will need to clean that up as well, or else the smoke smell will not go away. You will need to repaint your walls and ceiling so that you totally remove the trace of the soot damage and smoke damage. You should probably also add new wallpaper. The good news is that a fire cleanup company will do all of this and remove the smoke smell for you in a professional and timely manner.

The next step in dealing with the fire damage, after dealing with the smoke damage and soot damage, will be repairing the structure of your home. The fire cleanup company will need to repair the walls and the ceilings, as well as the floors, of your home. It is likely that they were badly damaged. They may not be safe anymore. The fire cleanup company can replace weakened walls and beams. They can turn your home or business into a beautiful place that is safe again after the fire in your home or the fire in your business. They can turn your home into a beautiful place that you love living in again.

The fire damage restoration company will deal with other aspects of fire damage as well. They will make sure your plumbing service is working after the fire in your home or the fire in your business. They will make sure that your electrical system is working. They will help you repair and replace any appliances that may have been damaged. They will make sure your sprinkler system is working and will be ready in case anything goes wrong. The fire damage restoration service will not leave until you are satisfied.
Call us at 601-425-0119 for more information on fire damage.

Every 18 Seconds.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Every 18 seconds a fire occurs somewhere in the U.S.! After experiencing such an event our hearts usually are overwhelmed with the long process of recovery. SERVPRO of Laurel can help alleviate much of the burden of cleaning up and restoring your business, home, and belongings. After a fire SERVPRO will begin to assess your needs. SERVPRO determines what your needs are and then assesses what is restorable and what methods will be used in restoration. The structure and contents will be cleaned by trained experts using either wet or dry cleaning. All restorable contents are cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, draperies, and upholstery. Additionally, all other restorable content such as electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric and brac, and much more will be cleaned and deodorized as well.

Why not set your mind at ease by being prepared for the possibility of a fire? Familiarize yourself with the professionals at SERVPRO of Laurel.

(601) 425-0119

Mold in your Home or Business? Call SERVPRO.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in a bathroom shower.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold issues.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (601) 425-0119

SERVPRO 24 hour Emergency Water Restoration Services

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

SERVPRO of LAUREL is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (601)425-0119

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. SERVPRO of LAUREL has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• 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)?

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of LAUREL specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

Why does mold Grow.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Why does mold grow?

 Any discussion about mold cleanup should start with understanding why mold begins to grow in the first place. Customers with a mold damage problem are always surprised to learn that toxic mold spores are present not just in their home, but every home, and in fact almost every environment. It’s a naturally occurring element and in low levels is completely safe to humans and pets and your home in general. So when does it become a problem? When too much moisture is introduced in the organic surfaces mold feeds on to grow. Things like drywall, insulation, wood, cabinets, etc. become mold’s food source when mixed with water and the right temperature. While there are many strains of toxic mold, most thrive in temperatures ranging from 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’ll notice, the average temperature in home’s ideal to our own comfort sits squarely within that range. So when it comes to mold growth, 2 things are always present: the right temperature and food. It’s when you introduce that 3rd element, water, that problems can quickly grow out of hand!

Most common moisture problems that lead to mold

 If your home suffered a massive water damage event, you’re obviously going to know about it and hopefully you’re going to hire a competent water damage restoration company to fix it (hint hint, that’s us!). So the likelihood of that event unleashing a chain reaction that leads to a big mold problem is small assuming you have the moisture removed quickly. The real big mold jobs we see are from much smaller, long-term moisture problems that just never went diagnosed. Below are some of the most common persistent water damage problems we see that can result in a massive amount of black mold damage.

 Leaks under sinks

Whether it’s from a supply line with a loose connection or a drain pipe that has a small hole, slow leaks under seats (or any other sink for that matter) can go unnoticed for some time because your cabinets can hide the problem. It’s always a good idea to check under your sink cabinets to look for any signs of moisture or musty odors. If you detect a problem, it may be a good idea to have a professional come out and inspect things further. In some cases the problem is isolated and will be something you can handle on your own. But in some cases, the visible signs are only the tip of the iceberg. You’d be shocked what we have seen on and in walls and under flooring after pulling out cabinets!

 Small roof leaks

In some instances, the symptoms of a significant roof leak are discovered pretty quickly. Usually you see discoloration in the top floor’s ceiling or worse, it collapses entirely. But in other cases when you have a very small leak, the problem can go undetected for quite some time and never result in water damage you can see from inside the home. It’s usually discovered when someone goes up into the attic for some unrelated reason and sees the problem: mold growth everywhere. On the roof decking, insulation, support beams, you name it. At that point, you’ve got an expensive problem on your hands and your insurance company likely isn’t going to pay for the damages.

The best way to prevent this particular mold problem from occurring is to perform both an exterior as well as interior inspection at least once a year. For the exterior, actually walk the roof of your home (if it’s safe) to look for damaged or missing shingles. Replacing them is easy! For the inside, climb up to your attic and inspect the roof decking for signs of water intrusion.

 Pipe leaks inside walls

A lot of times we are called to a home to do a mold inspection because a homeowner noticed a small patch of mold growing on the floor next to a wall. When we dig further, we usually discover there is a plumbing pipe housed in that wall that is slowly leaking and depositing water on the floor inside the wall cavity. Once we start to remove the drywall, often times we discover the problem is much larger than just the small visible spot on the floor. Usually the mold has traveled throughout the wall cavity and inside the subfloor. The damage can be extensive and the costs high.

You obviously can’t go tearing out sections of your walls often to figure out if you have a problem, so what can you do? The main thing you should be doing is watching your water bill. If you notice a spike and can’t determine a cause for that spike, you may have an undetected leak. At that point, you may want to hire a leak detection company to come out and perform an inspection to determine if you have a bigger problem you need to deal with. They’re better equipped at finding the problem, at which point we would come in and remove the excess moisture and black mold as well as repair any surfaces or structures that were torn out during the process!

Mold In Your Home? Call SERVPRO of Laurel at 601-425-0119.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPROof Laurel will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke– Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke– Paper and Wood

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

Protein Fire Residue– Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today (601)-425-0119

Mold behind wallpaper, SERVPRO can help.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in the glue behind wall paper.

Are you flipping a house? Do you find a lot of older homes have wallpaper? The wallpaper trend was very popular when those older homes were being built. Fast forward 20 years and you start to take that wallpaper off the walls and you see “Mold”. This is due to the long term moisture that could be trapped behind the wall paper and the sheetrock. This is more common in humid areas of the home such as in a bathroom. Such areas of mold are due to the inability of the areas to properly dry. SERVPRO of Laurel has the knowledge, equipment, and certified staff to help eradicate most mold areas. Call us @ 601-425-0119

***Please note that we do not know it is mold by just looking at it; to properly and scientifically say it is mold an Air Quality test needs to be performed to verify.

Reasons to seek professional help after a flood.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Here’s Why You Should Seek Professional Help After A Flood

Water is one of the most long-term destructive substance in homes and business premises. Excess and unwanted moisture or flooding could cause the deterioration of personal property and even the building's structure. Therefore, it is imperative to seek water damage restoration services from qualified professionals before the water in home and water in business causes severe losses.

It is necessary to call a restoration company as soon as there is excess moisture in home and water in business premises or when there is flood damage. Water cleanup services serve the purpose of mitigating the harmful effects of water, especially within the first 48 hours. Whether the water damage looks severe or not, a quick cleanup can produce excellent results.

If not addressed in the quickest time possible, excess water in home or water in business can cause expensive damage to the home structures and furniture. More so, it can promote electrical hazards and also lead to the growth and spread of mold.

Water in business and water in home may be as a result of clogged toilets, overflowing washing machines, pipe break, plumbing leaks, leaky roofs, supply line break among other causes. Fortunately, home and business owners can access a professional restoration company as quick as possible. The mitigation process involves the use of the industry’s best techniques handled by qualified personnel to free home and business premises of flood damage and water damage.

The effects of a flooded home can quickly jump from bad to irreparable. If not catered for in the shortest time possible, a flooded home may result to secondary damages that are accompanied by costly repairs. Water mitigation is a way of water damage restoration which stops water from spreading. If the water spreads, it can cause severe damage to the structures in the premises. A quick mitigation by skilled professionals prevents the spread, reducing the water damage costs.

The water cleanup process is very scientific, and for the professionals to determine if the business or home structures should be restored or replaced, they evaluate the following:
• The degree of contamination
• The amount of property damage, and
• The replacement costs versus the restoration costs

The water in home and businesses if not quickly dealt with could cause massive business interruption and financial burdens. Mold is also a major problem caused by excess moisture. To prevent mold and mildew from developing, it is imperative to get a fast response from the professional water restoration company. These professionals ensure to apply the safest removal methods so that the affected business and home premises are repaired promptly and professionally.

Both pipe breaks and supply line breaks are a major cause of a flooded home. And if the drying is not done as is required, there is a major risk for the property to be prone to flood damage. Professional flood damage restoration firms help homeowners to get the proof of damage as well as a list of the required repairs. If drying is done through the proper methods, a flooded home can be restored to its former state.

Each water and flood damage scenario is different, and each needs a unique solution. Professionals are well aware of how to carry out the necessary process whether the damage is as a result of pipe breaks, plumbing leaks, and supply line break. However, the general process involves the following steps:
• Emergency contact
• Inspection and damage assessment
• Water removal
• Drying and dehumidification
• Cleaning and sanitizing, and
• Restoration

The damage caused by water has many sources, from natural disasters to supply line break, and more often than not pipe break. Despite the source, Restoration Company professionals can carry out the water mitigation and drying process as is expected. Moreover, there are many benefits associated with the water cleanup process.

Water cleanup benefits
1. Rapid restoration
2. Preventing mildew and mold
3. Important details are addressed
4. There is professional input
5. Insurance issues are handled.
CALL- 601-425-0119 for more information on water damage.

The difference in flood warnings.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Lately there has been flooding all over the United States: if you are unfamiliar with the difference between a flash flood warning, flood warning, and flood advisory; then read below! 

What is the difference between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning issued by the National Weather Service?

• Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

• Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

• Flood Watch: Be Prepared:A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

• Flood Advisory: Be Aware: An Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.

Information from http://www.floodsafety.noaa.gov/

For all of your water damage, cleanup needs call (601)-425-0119

Mold. Do's and Dont's

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• DO stay out of affected areas.
• DO turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• DO contact SERVPRO of Jackson for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Do NOT touch or disturb the mold.
• Do NOT blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Do NOT attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Do NOT spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

We are prepared to help you face this issue when it arises.  Our team is prepared to deal with microbial growth and will help you take care of this issue quickly.  If you have any questions about microbial growth or have any concerns about your home or business, let SERVPRO of Laurel put your mind at ease.  Call us today at 601-425-0119 for any mold or mildew issues you are dealing with in your home or business! 

Holiday Season Fire Prevention

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving and Christmas are rapidly approaching and for most, the kitchen is the heart of the home, especially during the holidays. From testing family recipes to decorating cakes and cookies, everyone enjoys being part of the preparations. So keeping fire safety top of mind in the kitchen during this joyous but hectic time is important, especially when there’s a lot of activity and people at home. As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that large feast, remember, by following a few simple safety tips you can enjoy time with your loved ones and keep yourself and your family safer from fire.

Thanksgiving is a peak holiday for cooking fires, and the fire department responds to four times the amount of fires compared to every other day. One of the main contributors to this fire increase is leaving the kitchen while food is still cooking. Therefore, leaving the food unattended and able to cause more damage faster. The second leading factor is cooking equipment, so please be sure to make sure you are using the correct cooking utensils.

Safety tips

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Thank you to NFPA for safety tips.

SERVPRO of Laurel wants to be sure you are aware on how to prevent these unfortunate situations, but if a fire were to happen we are there for you 24/7 even on holidays. Of course, always making it like it never even happened.

Do you have a Fire Extinguisher?

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

You could save your home from fire with a fire extinguisher at your ready.

Close your eyes and imagine. You’re at home, or maybe in the office, and you smell ... smoke? Definitely smoke. Fire! You don’t panic, because you’re not the type and you’re prepared. You grab the nearest fire estinguisher, find the flames. You get ready, aim.... and suddenly realize you don’t know how this thing works.

Fire extinguishers can be the first line of defense if fire breaks out in your home or business, but they won’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use them or have the wrong extinguisher for the job. When it comes to fire, plan, prepare and remain calm. Knowing how, when and why to use your fire extinguisher—not to mention which fire extinguisher to use—will increase both your safety and peace of mind knowing you can protect you and your belonging from fire damage.

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Home or office, when a fire breaks out you have moments to decide: fight or flight? If you feel even the slightest doubt about handling it yourself, move everyone to a safe place and call 911. Ditto if you don’t know how to use your extinguisher or aren’t sure it’s the right class for the fire you’re fighting; better to let the pros handle it than to try to navigate the learning curve mid-fire.

If you decide you can safely put out the fire, grab the extinguisher and get busy, after you locate a safe way out. If you spot a clear exit but it doesn’t look to stay clear long, get out now.

What Kind of Extinguisher to Use
Home- and business owners can choose from five types of fire extinguishers:

• Class A: for a fire involving normal combustibles and flammables, including cloth, paper and wood
• Class B: for a fire involving flammable liquids like gas, oil, paint, paint thinner and solvents
• Class C: to fight a fire involving electrical equipment/appliances that are plugged in and receiving power—electric drills, table saws, computer equipment, televisions, wiring and fuse boxes, for example
• Class D: to put out a fire involving combustible metals—magnesium, sodium, zirconium, etc. (Note: Don’t try to fight this kind of fire unless you’ve been specifically trained for it!)
• Class K: for fires typically found in restaurants, involving cooking oil and commercial-grade cooking equipment

Some fires involve several or all of the above. Fortunately, fire extinguishers are labeled not only with the types of fire they’re designed to fight, but with the types of fire you should avoid using them on. Example: Never use a Class A extinguisher on a Class B or C fire—the results could be deadly!

Fire Extinguisher How-to

1. Stand six to eight feet away from the flames.
2. Make sure you have a clear exit, in case the fire spreads or flames out of control.
3. Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever.
4. Aim the hose at the base of the fire.
5. Press the lever located above the handle to release the agent.
6. Use a back-and-forth sweeping motion to saturate the base of the fire until the flames are extinguished.
7. Continue the process if the fire re-ignites.
8. If the fire doesn’t go out or spreads, get to safety.

Extinguisher Safety Tips

• Install fire extinguishers in areas where fires are likely to break out, including kitchens and break rooms.
• Check periodically to make sure all fire extinguishers are fully charged.
• Show every family member or employee where the fire extinguishers and fire alarms are located.
• Train yourself, your loved ones and your co-workers to use the equipment properly.

Even with a fire extinguisher, some fire damage will occur. When this happens, call your local SERVPRO at 601-425-0119. 

The costly affects of a fire.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Fire is one of our most valuable resources.  We use it to cook our food, heat our homes, power our world and so much more.  However, when it comes to our homes, fire can also be one of our worst enemies.  Each year, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), nearly 358,300 home-owners experience a fire.  Nearly, $10.3 billion in property damage and 3,280 deaths were due to residential fires in 2015 alone.  Residential fires accounted for three-quarters of all structure fires during 2015.  At SERVPRO of Laurel, we have seen first-hand the devastation that fire can cause.  We take pride in helping customers get their lives back on track in the wake of a disaster; but our wish is that they never go through that experience.  Knowledge is power when it comes to prevention and we want to share information that can help you protect your home.  Cooking is the leading cause of residential fires followed by home heating.  When cooking be sure to never leave anything on or near the stove and use caution when frying.  If you have central heating, make sure to have ducts cleaned regularly to prevent buildup and reduce the chance of fire. Dryer vents should also be cleaned annually.  Clothes dryers cause an estimated 2,900 fires each year, causing over $35 million in property losses. Call us today to schedule your HVAC or dryer vent cleaning and protect your home.

Can carpets and flooring be saved after a flood.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Home flooded during hurricane Harvey.

After a flood, many homeowners and property managers wonder if their carpet and pad can be saved.  The answer is, it depends.  Factors such as the age and quality of the carpet and pad, as well as the type of installation used, have to be taken into consideration. However, the type of floodwater that caused the damage is most important when determining whether or not carpet and padding can be salvaged.

There are 3 floodwater categories that determine whether the carpet and padding can be restored to their pre-disaster condition:

• Category 1 (clean water): non-contaminated water that may come from a broken pipe, sink, etc. After the water has been extracted, carpets and pads can be dried and restored in place.
• Category 2 (gray water): dirty water that has been released by sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers, etc. The carpet can usually be restored if it has been wet for less than 48 hours. The pad is replaced in most cases.
• Category 3 (black water): water containing dangerous contaminants that may originate from sewage and toilet backflows as well as from floods caused by natural disasters. To protect your family’s health, carpets and pads should be removed, discarded and replaced.

Since every water damage situation is different, you cannot know for sure if or when your carpet and pad can be salvaged until you have a professional restoration company inspect the situation.

The faster you report the disaster, the lower the costs will be. If you’re dealing with a flooding problem, contact  SERVPRO of Laurel today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist at 601-425-0119.

SERVPRO Tips for Mold Prevention.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is the enemy of every homeowner. Mold looks unsightly, smells bad, and can cause damage to your soft furnishings, carpets, clothes, and even your appliances or the structure of your home itself. Often the first sign of mold is a glimpse of discoloration on a wall or ceiling, or maybe noticing that telltale moldy smell in a bathroom or laundry room.

 
However, spores can grow in hidden places, too. You can reduce the risk of the fungus growing unnoticed and causing mold damage to your residence home by being proactive about looking for evidence of mold. SERVPRO recommends you check the following places for hidden contamination. 
 
Chimneys 
Chimneys are cold and can easily get damp from rain or even snow. Brickwork provides plenty of hidden crevices for spores to grow in. Make sure your chimney flashing is in good condition and replace it if need be. An annual visit from a chimney sweep is a good idea, too. 
 
Kitchen Appliances 
Most kitchen appliances get washed after every use, but there are still some hidden areas you must check regularly. Take a look at refrigerator drip trays, the door and seal of front-loading washing machines, and refrigerator and freezer seals. You can deal with mild cases using a weak bleach solution followed by a quick wipe with white vinegar. 
 
Carpets and Carpet Pads 
Carpets and carpet pads provide an environment where mold can propagate unnoticed, especially if a carpet gets wet. If your floor coverings get wet, call us at once. Our skilled teams come with free standing and truck mounted pumps and extraction tools to remove water and lessen the risk of fungus growing under your carpet or pad. 
 
SERVPRO of Laurel  recommends putting in a call to us at the first sign of mold in your home. Our IICRC certified technicians come prepared to set up containment to protect the rest of your home before getting to work on thoroughly cleaning the affected area. We use powerful HEPA vacuums to vacuum loose spores from surfaces, along with a combination of sanding, wire brush scrubbing, dusting, and wiping with a detergent solution to ensure each surface is properly cleaned of mold. We also use negative air machines when needed, to vent contaminated air outside your home. 
 
When mold cleaning is complete, our trained experts bring in dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the affected room, carpet, or area back to its normal level of dryness and discourage further growth. 
 
If you suspect mold growth in your home, give SERVPRO of Laurel a call at (601)425-1070 today.

Steps to dry your home after a failed appliance flood

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Steps to removing water and drying your home after a failed appliance causes a flood

Most flooding problems in homes come from the inside, rather than from a rising creek or river. In many of these cases, the problem results from a failed dishwasher or a split intake hose for a clothes washer.

Appliance flood damage sounds simple, but the truth is very different. A failure of either of these machines can drop over five gallons of water on the floor every hour. SERVPRO of Laurel knows that if this happens in the morning after everyone leaves for work, that means an entire, three-bedroom room can be under an inch of water before the homeowner or renter walks in to find a disaster.

The only advantage to dealing with flooding from such an inside source is that it is clean water. There is no contamination to have to worry about, so there is no need for special protective gear and since cleaning the surfaces is not required, the overall time necessary for the job is far less as well.

The first step we take is to stop the flow of water. If a resident has not turned off the water main, we do it immediately after arriving on the property.

Next, we get to work removing standing water. For any amount over an inch, we start with commercial grade water pumps. These machines can empty out an average home in an afternoon, allowing us to bring in more equipment and inspect for damage to floors, carpets, and walls. If the power is out, we bring in our generators for uninterrupted electrical support.

If there is no permanent damage, we draw out remaining water trapped on carpets and floors. Technicians use extraction wands which are designed to bring out the water without harming wood surfaces or damaging the nap of the rug. This part of the job is more time-consuming and can take up to a full day or more.

With the water removed, we now lower the moisture levels in the surrounding air. To do so, we use dehumidifiers to draw moisture out of the air. Each device can remove over twenty gallons every day depending on the humidity and size of the dehumidifier we use. We perform this task to prevent the possibility of rot or mold growth in the walls and floors.

Drying out your home is not an easy process, but the right restoration company can do it quickly and safely. SERVPRO of Laurel has years of experience helping our neighbors put their homes back together after a flood. If you need our help, call today at 601-425-0119

FIRE RESTORATION, three areas SERVPRO can help.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

It's happened! Fire has affected your life and now you are wondering how to move on! How much can be done? What can be salvaged? Is there a way to restore my valuables or my damaged structure?

Fire, Smoke, and Soot restoration is an area that SERVPRO of Laurel definitely has both experience and great successes. There are usually three main areas of concern: Structural cleaning, contents cleaning, and deodorization.

STRUCTURAL CLEANING-After a fire or smoke damage the ceilings, walls, rugs, carpeting, and all the floors will often need to be thoroughly cleaned. SERVPRO will begin by testing to see the extent of the damage and then use specific equipment and products required to both clean and protect the surfaces in your home.

CONTENTS CLEANING-All of the contents in your home that can be restored will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. Rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery will be carefully inspected and tested to determine what cleaning process and products will be required and effective. SERVPRO provides both wet and dry cleaning services. Other items that may be restored are art, electronics, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac, and much much more.

DEODORIZATION- SERVPRO professionals provide specialized services to totally rid your home of the offensive odors that fire and smoke leave behind. The source of the odors is sought out and removed and not just the lingering fragrances. SERVPRO will be happy to explain the processes and methods available.

SERVPRO OF LAUREL 601-425-0119

Helpful tips and advice in the case of a damage to your home or business.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a franchise company. SERVPRO has been in business for over 35 years. Experience, coupled with training, has made given them quite a bit of knowledge to pass on to their clients. SERVPRO of Laurel is owned and staffed by highly trained and specialized personnel that really desire to help you in whatever  cleanup or recovery situation you find yourself in. There are many things that you can do and many you shouldn't do before SERVPRO arrives to help you with your fire, water damage, smoke damage, vandalism, or even harmful waste issues. The "do's and don'ts" so to speak.

For instance with fire or smoke damage -

DO

. Limit your movement in the home or business to prevent soot particles from becoming embedded in upholstery or carpets

. Keep your hands clean. Soot transfers easily and can damage many surfaces including woodwork

DON'T

. attempt to wash walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Laurel

. Consume any canned or packaged food or beverage that may have been close to the fire

With Water Damage..

DO

. Shut off water source if possible

. Turn off circuit breakers fro wet areas of the building

DON'T

. Enter rooms with standing water where electrical hazards may exist

. Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet

Be prepared for all emergencies by learning all you can about what to do until help arrives.

An extensive list can be obtained by calling SERVPRO of Laurel  

601-425-0119

Commercial Restoration Services

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Laurel handle your Commercial Service needs today. Call (601)425-0119

When it comes to commercial cleaning and restoration services, SERVPRO is a leader in the industry. Available 24 hours a day and seven days a week, SERVPRO of Laurel responds quickly to your business’s fire, water, and mold damage emergencies.

Commercial Restoration Services

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm and Major Events
• Disaster Recovery Team

For Emergency Services, Call 24/7 –

(601)425-0119

In addition to Commercial Restoration Services, SERVPRO of Laurel offers Commercial Cleaning Services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing bio-hazard contaminants. We have the specialized equipment, various products, and skilled cleaning methods to make your business look its very best. 

Commercial Cleaning Services

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Bio-hazard and Sewage
• Post-Construction Clean
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

When the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Laurel has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of Laurel specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 601-425-0119

Why and how to create a Business Continuity Plan.

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Don't wait for the Storm to hit to start planning. Call SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

A wide variety of vulnerabilities in your business may lead to loss of income and customer loyalty when a disaster occurs. A business continuity plan, also referred to as an emergency response plan is a technique you may use to identify and prepare for potential problems, keeping your activities running with the least disruption possible.

5 Steps To Create a Plan

To make the process easier, the creation process is broken down into five steps. Consider each part with your business’s needs.

1. Business Impact Analysis: This is a questionnaire that allows you and your managers to assess potential emergencies and the materials required to deal with them. Preparation, distribution and evaluation of results are usually necessary elements of this first step in your business continuity plan.

2. Recovery Strategies: These are plans that allow you to analyze resource needs, the gaps between the required resources and those currently available, managerial choices of strategies to be used and action on those decisions.

3. Plan Development: This is the laying out of the actual emergency response plan, the arrangement of teams to implement recovery from the disaster, production of documentation and approval by management.

4. Training: This is the preparation of the team responsible for continuity actions.

5. Testing and Exercises: This is the creation of training and evaluation materials, which are then tried and implemented.

Value of the Plan for Your Business

An emergency response plan provides a clear, deliberate and well-thought-out way to deal with potential disasters at your business facility. Employees and management should be trained in the procedures that should make a crucial difference in the rapid recovery of your business.

Guidance in Developing Your Plan

There are online materials that provide detailed information on how to create your business continuity plan. Some of these materials are aimed at specific types of emergency services such as IT repair or commercial water damage mitigation.

Having SERVPRO of perform an ERP on your business is a great way to begin the process.

Call SERVPRO of Laurel at

(601)425-0119

Flood Facts

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel is here to help. Call (601)425-0119

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. FEMA reports, in the last 8 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. As most of us have recently experienced, nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas. 

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA:

• Flash floods can bring walls of water from 10 to 20 feet high.
• Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.
• Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires. 
• A 2,000 square foot home undergoing 12 feet of water damage could cost more than $50,000 to repair.

Here are a few supplies you need to prepare for a flood:

• Stock up on First Aid items
• Non-perishable foods
• Three gallons of water per person for 3 days
• Battery operated radio for weather reports
• Extra batteries
• Personal hygiene necessities

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of Laurel specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 601-425-0119

2018 Hurricane Season

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting a near or above normal 2018 Atlantic hurricane season. They’re predicting anywhere from 10-16 named storms. In the range of 5-9 becoming hurricanes and out of those 1-4 becoming major hurricanes. The NOAA states that the possibility of a weak El Nino developing and near-average sea surface temperatures across the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea are two of the factors that are driving this outlook.

With all of the sophisticated technology, next-generation models and satellite data; this helps decision makers and the general public the ability to take action before, during and after hurricanes. After the 2017 Hurricane season, specifically Hurricane Harvey, Residents can use this information to be better prepared for the upcoming 2018 season.

Source: www.noaa.gov

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team 601-425-0119

Did you know that SERVPRO has a specialized storm team and large loss response network to provide the resources to your property when others can’t? In the event of a disaster, SERVPRO professionals have the resources to relocate crews with equipment to take care of all of our customer’s needs. SERVPRO strategically places mobilization teams across the country to travel when needed to support in recovery after large storm events such as hurricanes. Our job as water damage restoration professionals is to limit the amount of business interruption. We understand that fast mitigation is key to getting your business back up and running. SERVPRO provides the resources in the event of a large storm event to make sure that the right equipment, procedures and training are in place to ensure that the structure is dry the first time and saves you time and money.

Do you have questions about how SERVPRO of Laurel can help you prepare for a disaster? Contact us today at (601) 425-0119!

House Fire Season?

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

We often hear about a particular time of the year as being the “season for house fires,” meaning house fire disasters are on the rise from that month forward.  It is usually associated with colder weather when we start to use more home heating.  When it comes to your home, however, there is no “season” for a fire.  It can strike at any time.  The sad fact is that 2,500 people will be killed in fires over the next year.  13,000 people will suffer serious injuries related to fires and the loss of property – in terms of real dollars – will be more than $7 Billion!

SERVPRO of Laurel provides expert restoration services if you have experienced a house fire.  If that is your situation now, please call (601) 425-0199 so we can begin restoring your home.  The residue left from a fire, known as soot, presents hidden dangers if not properly removed from your home and your possessions.  Soot is acidic in nature and within hours to days, it will begin to decay or even destroy whatever surface it comes in contact with.

Our homes are a collection of different types of materials, all of which represent unique risks once they have been exposed to the heat from a fire.  The structure itself is composed of wood and sheetrock.  Electrical wiring is wrapped with plastics and rubber.  Insulation is found in attics and behind walls.  Floors are made of wooden materials that have been coated with chemicals to preserve their beauty, or covered with synthetic materials found in carpets.  Each presents its own set of risks.  The water used to extinguish the fire also presents a different set of problems for furniture that comes in contact with it and personal belongings left on floors. 

SERVPRO of Laurel technicians are trained to determine what can be salvaged and what needs to be discarded.  Each home contains items of sentimental value like pictures and heirlooms.  Until help arrives, pictures need to be removed from glass frames as quickly as possible so they can dry unless they have become stuck to the glass.  Valuable items like jewelry, weapons, ammunition, financial papers and other personal items should be removed from the home for safe keeping. 

Our restoration specialists treat the damaged contents of your home with the utmost respect and care.  Once cleaned and restored, we will safely store your property until your home is ready for your return.  Our job is to make your loss “Like it never even happened.” 

Emergency Ready Profile

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

As a homeowner you always want to make sure you have emergency contacts close by in case anything unexpected happens. What if you are a homeowner but also a business owner? I know personally I couldn't imagine the amount of stress! SERVPRO realizes that you might not think about the unexpected things that might happen to your business; flooding, tornado damage, etc. 

That's why we have our Emergency Ready Program available to you! Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster, plan for it now! As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
 The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage A no cost assessment of your facility. – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. – This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. – You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. – This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. – Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”  Give us a call today and set up your ERP!

Restaurant Restoration.. Common Causes of Restaurant Fires

11/16/2017 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Agency, there are over 3,500 restaurant fires reported each year in the United States. These fires are estimated to cost about $84 million in property damage every year. The majority of these fires are started in the cooking area of the restaurants.

Even though the rates have reduced over the years, restaurant fires are still a major concern today. You may have your smoke alarms up to code and working properly, but we all know that commercial cooking operations have a multitude of fire hazards.

5 Common Restaurant Fire Safety Issues 

• Vent hood doesn’t cover all the cooking appliances: When fire starts on a cooking appliance that isn’t properly covered by a vent hood, it can’t be easily controlled and may burn down the whole kitchen.
• Inadequate cleaning of the exhaust systems: Exhaust systems usually accumulate grease which is highly inflammable and could pose a serious fire threat. Regular maintenance of the exhaust systems will come a long way in ensuring that your restaurant is safe from fire damage.
• Incorrectly installed baffle filters: These filters are specifically designed to collect grease. If they are incorrectly installed, grease may accumulate on the hood and pose a serious fire threat.
• Inadequate separation or partition between fryers and cooking appliances: Without adequate space between these two items, cooking oil can easily splash into flames and cause a fire. Ensure there is at least 16 inches of separation or use a thick noncombustible metal divider.
• Dirty vents, ceiling, hoods, and work areas: Lack of proper hygiene and sanitation in a commercial kitchen is a major risk of restaurant fires. Dirty surfaces can easily be ignited by a small flame and cause a huge fire disaster.

Call SERVPRO for Restaurant Restoration

In addition to these common causes, lack of proper fire prevention equipment and skills is also another contributing factor. As a restaurant owner , ensure that your staff is properly trained on the basic fire prevention and safety practices. 

But if the damage is already done, you have a second chance with SERVPRO. We offer top-notch and quick restaurant restoration services in the Laurel area. Don’t let a mere fire shatter your dreams. We will restore your restaurant in no time.

Call us at 601-425-0119

How a Commercial Fire Damage Company Will Restore Your Business

11/2/2017 (Permalink)

How a Commercial Fire Damage Company Will Restore Your Business

Were you a recent victim of a fire in your home or a fire in your business? Are you dealing with a horrible smoke smell? Are you trying to clean up smoke damage and soot damage? Do not try to deal with the commercial fire damage and the fire cleanup process by yourself. You should not even enter your home or your business before calling a fire restoration company. There may be safety hazards. The structure may cave in at any moment, and there may be broken shards of glass that can hurt you. The smoke smell can also be dangerous.

It is imperative that you call a professional restoration company as soon as you possibly can. They will do an assessment of your burnt home and take in all of the fire damage. They will come up with a plan of action for the restoration of your home and for dealing with the commercial fire damage.

The first thing the restoration company will do is board up the holes in your walls and your broken windows. You need to board up the holes before you take care of the water damage, or else more water may enter your home through those holes when it rains, thus undoing your work. A professional restoration company will use tarps or wood boards to board up those holes. The holes that need boarding up include the holes caused by the fire and the holes caused by the firefighters; they often make holes to make sure that the fire is not still burning behind the wall. Boarding up the holes is the first step of dealing with commercial fire damage.

After doing that, the fire damage restoration service will start removing the water from your home. Water that was used to put out the fire in your home or the fire in your business can cause serious damage. It can soak your furniture and your walls. You will need flood pumps to pump out the water. You will need special tools to dry out your walls, your furniture, and your carpets. A professional fire damage restoration service has the tools that are necessary to deal with commercial fire damage.

The next step in dealing with the fire damage is dealing with the smoke damage, also referred to as the soot damage. Your walls will likely be blackened. They will need to be cleaned from all the soot that covers them. They will be grayed by the smoke, and you will need to clean that up as well, or else the smoke smell will not go away. You will need to repaint your walls and ceiling so that you totally remove the trace of the soot damage and smoke damage. You should probably also add new wallpaper. The good news is that a fire cleanup company will do all of this and remove the smoke smell for you in a professional and timely manner.

The next step in dealing with the fire damage, after dealing with the smoke damage and soot damage, will be repairing the structure of your home. The fire cleanup company will need to repair the walls and the ceilings, as well as the floors, of your home. It is likely that they were badly damaged. They may not be safe anymore. The fire cleanup company can replace weakened walls and beams. They can turn your home or business into a beautiful place that is safe again after the fire in your home or the fire in your business. They can turn your home into a beautiful place that you love living in again.

The fire damage restoration company will deal with other aspects of fire damage as well. They will make sure your plumbing service is working after the fire in your home or the fire in your business. They will make sure that your electrical system is working. They will help you repair and replace any appliances that may have been damaged. They will make sure your sprinkler system is working and will be ready in case anything goes wrong. The fire damage restoration service will not leave until you are satisfied.
Call us at 601-425-0119 for more information on fire damage.

Fire Extinguishers

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

You could save your home from fire with a fire extinguisher at your ready.

Close your eyes and imagine. You’re at home, or maybe in the office, and you smell ... smoke? Definitely smoke. Fire! You don’t panic, because you’re not the type and you’re prepared. You grab the nearest fire estinguisher, find the flames. You get ready, aim.... and suddenly realize you don’t know how this thing works.

Fire extinguishers can be the first line of defense if fire breaks out in your home or business, but they won’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use them or have the wrong extinguisher for the job. When it comes to fire, plan, prepare and remain calm. Knowing how, when and why to use your fire extinguisher—not to mention which fire extinguisher to use—will increase both your safety and peace of mind knowing you can protect you and your belonging from fire damage.

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Home or office, when a fire breaks out you have moments to decide: fight or flight? If you feel even the slightest doubt about handling it yourself, move everyone to a safe place and call 911. Ditto if you don’t know how to use your extinguisher or aren’t sure it’s the right class for the fire you’re fighting; better to let the pros handle it than to try to navigate the learning curve mid-fire.

If you decide you can safely put out the fire, grab the extinguisher and get busy, after you locate a safe way out. If you spot a clear exit but it doesn’t look to stay clear long, get out now.

What Kind of Extinguisher to Use
Home- and business owners can choose from five types of fire extinguishers:

• Class A: for a fire involving normal combustibles and flammables, including cloth, paper and wood
• Class B: for a fire involving flammable liquids like gas, oil, paint, paint thinner and solvents
• Class C: to fight a fire involving electrical equipment/appliances that are plugged in and receiving power—electric drills, table saws, computer equipment, televisions, wiring and fuse boxes, for example
• Class D: to put out a fire involving combustible metals—magnesium, sodium, zirconium, etc. (Note: Don’t try to fight this kind of fire unless you’ve been specifically trained for it!)
• Class K: for fires typically found in restaurants, involving cooking oil and commercial-grade cooking equipment

Some fires involve several or all of the above. Fortunately, fire extinguishers are labeled not only with the types of fire they’re designed to fight, but with the types of fire you should avoid using them on. Example: Never use a Class A extinguisher on a Class B or C fire—the results could be deadly!

Fire Extinguisher How-to

1. Stand six to eight feet away from the flames.
2. Make sure you have a clear exit, in case the fire spreads or flames out of control.
3. Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever.
4. Aim the hose at the base of the fire.
5. Press the lever located above the handle to release the agent.
6. Use a back-and-forth sweeping motion to saturate the base of the fire until the flames are extinguished.
7. Continue the process if the fire re-ignites.
8. If the fire doesn’t go out or spreads, get to safety.

Extinguisher Safety Tips

• Install fire extinguishers in areas where fires are likely to break out, including kitchens and break rooms.
• Check periodically to make sure all fire extinguishers are fully charged.
• Show every family member or employee where the fire extinguishers and fire alarms are located.
• Train yourself, your loved ones and your co-workers to use the equipment properly.

Even with a fire extinguisher, some fire damage will occur. When this happens, call your local SERVPRO at 601-425-0119. 

What is Water Restoration

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

The following is provided by the IICRC. 

Companies that perform water damage restoration have to be skilled in a number of areas to stay current in their field. Technicians in the industry have to combat a number of threats, some visible and some invisible, before their job is done. Structural weakening, chemical runoff, electrical hazards, dangerous wildlife, and deadly microbes are all common risks technicians have to contend with. Without the proper education and equipment, a technician risks grave injury and may leave health risks behind for a family to encounter. Fortunately, technicians in the industry have access to the educational resources offered by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, or IICRC.

After getting certified in water damage restoration and a number of related fields, a professional in the field will be able to identify and neutralize any problems they are likely to face at a job site. In most cases, a technician is called to a home following a flood or plumbing disaster. In either case, the initial threat a technician has to encounter is hazardous standing liquid. Floods and sewage backups are normally host to dangerous chemicals, like oil runoff, bacteria and viruses. Before any repairs can be done on the home, a technician will need to be outfitted with the proper safety wear and begin investigating where the liquid is pooling. Moisture meters can detect the level of moisture in and behind drywall, carpet, and other areas. Using minimally-invasive tools, a technician can quickly find pockets of heavy moisture in areas not readily accessible.

This is important because only thorough drying will ensure that further destruction does not occur. Most companies use a combination of industrial  air movers and dehumidifiers to extract moisture from both materials and the air. This process can take some time, but diagnostic tools like moisture meters help technicians monitor the drying process. Once all of the materials inside the home have reached safe levels, mold and other microbial growth can be halted.

The most severe threats a water damage restoration company has to deal with are molds and other pathogens. These  contaminants can remain a major hazard for years after they have taken root, and can cause health problems while remaining hidden in vents or behind walls. Trained technicians are capable of neutralizing molds and other pathogens by utilizing special  cleaning products and quickly removing compromised materials. Being able to identify mold growth is an important skill for a professional, and stemming the growth of a colony can be the difference between saving a home and having to condemn it. Certified firms are capable of quickly working through a property and disposing of anything that is beyond repair. Anything that is salvageable but soaked is separated, cleaned properly, and promptly dried. If the building’s structural integrity has been affected, these technicians can identify it and alert the homeowner and the insurance representative to its presence.

Without professional help, a homeowner will never know for sure that their home is safe to live in again. This is why the help of a certified technician is so valuable. They don’t just repair homes, they restore normalcy.

Though IICRC does not in fact operate its own school, it does recommend the best water damage restoration technician training courses per industry standards. 

Time is of the essence after a major water disaster. Though Journeyman-certified technicians may be the right choice for water damage that does not threaten structural integrity, it is vital to bring an IICRC certified Master professional to the scene of a major disaster as soon as possible. Certified professionals use the skills they’ve learned in the accreditation courses to examine the structure, textiles, and the belongings, and will likely be able to control the damage, so no further damage will occur.

Furthermore, knowing the fastest and best means of drying the structure and textiles is imperative. Familiarity with the most effective processes and safest compounds to stop the spread of molds and microbes is also needed to protect people and animals in the environment. Graduates of the relevant IICRC-approved classes excel in these areas.

The importance of providing customer satisfaction cannot be over-emphasized. Each  certified technician  must pass a stringent series of exams prior to acceptance, and continual training is required. Complaints are taken seriously and must be handled promptly to ensure continued accreditation as a certified firm.

Water damage restoration technician training is a surefire way to  insure the latest and greatest procedures are used to protect a customer’s property. There are various courses of study and ways to learn the information, so IICRC works with both the consumer and the professional to guarantee the best experience.

Holiday Season Fire Prevention

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving and Christmas are rapidly approaching and for most, the kitchen is the heart of the home, especially during the holidays. From testing family recipes to decorating cakes and cookies, everyone enjoys being part of the preparations. So keeping fire safety top of mind in the kitchen during this joyous but hectic time is important, especially when there’s a lot of activity and people at home. As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that large feast, remember, by following a few simple safety tips you can enjoy time with your loved ones and keep yourself and your family safer from fire.

Thanksgiving is a peak holiday for cooking fires, and the fire department responds to four times the amount of fires compared to every other day. One of the main contributors to this fire increase is leaving the kitchen while food is still cooking. Therefore, leaving the food unattended and able to cause more damage faster. The second leading factor is cooking equipment, so please be sure to make sure you are using the correct cooking utensils.

Safety tips

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Thank you to NFPA for safety tips.

SERVPRO of Laurel wants to be sure you are aware on how to prevent these unfortunate situations, but if a fire were to happen we are there for you 24/7 even on holidays. Of course, always making it like it never even happened.

Mold. DO's and Don'ts

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• DO stay out of affected areas.
• DO turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• DO contact SERVPRO of Jackson for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Do NOT touch or disturb the mold.
• Do NOT blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Do NOT attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Do NOT spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

We are prepared to help you face this issue when it arises.  Our team is prepared to deal with microbial growth and will help you take care of this issue quickly.  If you have any questions about microbial growth or have any concerns about your home or business, let SERVPRO of Laurel put your mind at ease.  Call us today at 601-425-0119 for any mold or mildew issues you are dealing with in your home or business! 

Mold and Wallpaper ..SERVPRO can help

9/14/2017 (Permalink)

Are you flipping a house? Do you find a lot of older homes have wallpaper? The wallpaper trend was very popular when those older homes were being built. Fast forward 20 years and you start to take that wallpaper off the walls and you see “Mold”. This is due to the long term moisture that could be trapped behind the wall paper and the sheetrock. This is more common in humid areas of the home such as in a bathroom. Such areas of mold are due to the inability of the areas to properly dry. SERVPRO of Laurel has the knowledge, equipment, and certified staff to help eradicate most mold areas. Call us @ 601-425-0119

***Please note that we do not know it is mold by just looking at it; to properly and scientifically say it is mold an Air Quality test needs to be performed to verify.

Can carpets be saved after a flood

9/12/2017 (Permalink)

After a flood, many homeowners and property managers wonder if their carpet and pad can be saved.  The answer is, it depends.  Factors such as the age and quality of the carpet and pad, as well as the type of installation used, have to be taken into consideration. However, the type of floodwater that caused the damage is most important when determining whether or not carpet and padding can be salvaged.

There are 3 floodwater categories that determine whether the carpet and padding can be restored to their pre-disaster condition:

• Category 1 (clean water): non-contaminated water that may come from a broken pipe, sink, etc. After the water has been extracted, carpets and pads can be dried and restored in place.
• Category 2 (gray water): dirty water that has been released by sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers, etc. The carpet can usually be restored if it has been wet for less than 48 hours. The pad is replaced in most cases.
• Category 3 (black water): water containing dangerous contaminants that may originate from sewage and toilet backflows as well as from floods caused by natural disasters. To protect your family’s health, carpets and pads should be removed, discarded and replaced.

Since every water damage situation is different, you cannot know for sure if or when your carpet and pad can be salvaged until you have a professional restoration company inspect the situation.

The faster you report the disaster, the lower the costs will be. If you’re dealing with a flooding problem, contact  SERVPRO of Laurel today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist at 601-425-0119.

Why Does Mold Grow?

9/12/2017 (Permalink)

Why does mold grow?

 Any discussion about mold cleanup should start with understanding why mold begins to grow in the first place. Customers with a mold damage problem are always surprised to learn that toxic mold spores are present not just in their home, but every home, and in fact almost every environment. It’s a naturally occurring element and in low levels is completely safe to humans and pets and your home in general. So when does it become a problem? When too much moisture is introduced in the organic surfaces mold feeds on to grow. Things like drywall, insulation, wood, cabinets, etc. become mold’s food source when mixed with water and the right temperature. While there are many strains of toxic mold, most thrive in temperatures ranging from 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’ll notice, the average temperature in home’s ideal to our own comfort sits squarely within that range. So when it comes to mold growth, 2 things are always present: the right temperature and food. It’s when you introduce that 3rd element, water, that problems can quickly grow out of hand!

Most common moisture problems that lead to mold

 If your home suffered a massive water damage event, you’re obviously going to know about it and hopefully you’re going to hire a competent water damage restoration company to fix it (hint hint, that’s us!). So the likelihood of that event unleashing a chain reaction that leads to a big mold problem is small assuming you have the moisture removed quickly. The real big mold jobs we see are from much smaller, long-term moisture problems that just never went diagnosed. Below are some of the most common persistent water damage problems we see that can result in a massive amount of black mold damage.

 Leaks under sinks

Whether it’s from a supply line with a loose connection or a drain pipe that has a small hole, slow leaks under seats (or any other sink for that matter) can go unnoticed for some time because your cabinets can hide the problem. It’s always a good idea to check under your sink cabinets to look for any signs of moisture or musty odors. If you detect a problem, it may be a good idea to have a professional come out and inspect things further. In some cases the problem is isolated and will be something you can handle on your own. But in some cases, the visible signs are only the tip of the iceberg. You’d be shocked what we have seen on and in walls and under flooring after pulling out cabinets!

 Small roof leaks

In some instances, the symptoms of a significant roof leak are discovered pretty quickly. Usually you see discoloration in the top floor’s ceiling or worse, it collapses entirely. But in other cases when you have a very small leak, the problem can go undetected for quite some time and never result in water damage you can see from inside the home. It’s usually discovered when someone goes up into the attic for some unrelated reason and sees the problem: mold growth everywhere. On the roof decking, insulation, support beams, you name it. At that point, you’ve got an expensive problem on your hands and your insurance company likely isn’t going to pay for the damages.

The best way to prevent this particular mold problem from occurring is to perform both an exterior as well as interior inspection at least once a year. For the exterior, actually walk the roof of your home (if it’s safe) to look for damaged or missing shingles. Replacing them is easy! For the inside, climb up to your attic and inspect the roof decking for signs of water intrusion.

 Pipe leaks inside walls

A lot of times we are called to a home to do a mold inspection because a homeowner noticed a small patch of mold growing on the floor next to a wall. When we dig further, we usually discover there is a plumbing pipe housed in that wall that is slowly leaking and depositing water on the floor inside the wall cavity. Once we start to remove the drywall, often times we discover the problem is much larger than just the small visible spot on the floor. Usually the mold has traveled throughout the wall cavity and inside the subfloor. The damage can be extensive and the costs high.

You obviously can’t go tearing out sections of your walls often to figure out if you have a problem, so what can you do? The main thing you should be doing is watching your water bill. If you notice a spike and can’t determine a cause for that spike, you may have an undetected leak. At that point, you may want to hire a leak detection company to come out and perform an inspection to determine if you have a bigger problem you need to deal with. They’re better equipped at finding the problem, at which point we would come in and remove the excess moisture and black mold as well as repair any surfaces or structures that were torn out during the process!

Mold In Your Home? Call SERVPRO of Laurel at 601-425-0119.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPROof Laurel will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke– Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke– Paper and Wood

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

Protein Fire Residue– Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today (601)-425-0119

SERVPRO Tips For Mold Prevention

8/29/2017 (Permalink)

Mold is the enemy of every homeowner. Mold looks unsightly, smells bad, and can cause damage to your soft furnishings, carpets, clothes, and even your appliances or the structure of your home itself. Often the first sign of mold is a glimpse of discoloration on a wall or ceiling, or maybe noticing that telltale moldy smell in a bathroom or laundry room.

 
However, spores can grow in hidden places, too. You can reduce the risk of the fungus growing unnoticed and causing mold damage to your residence home by being proactive about looking for evidence of mold. SERVPRO recommends you check the following places for hidden contamination. 
 
Chimneys 
Chimneys are cold and can easily get damp from rain or even snow. Brickwork provides plenty of hidden crevices for spores to grow in. Make sure your chimney flashing is in good condition and replace it if need be. An annual visit from a chimney sweep is a good idea, too. 
 
Kitchen Appliances 
Most kitchen appliances get washed after every use, but there are still some hidden areas you must check regularly. Take a look at refrigerator drip trays, the door and seal of front-loading washing machines, and refrigerator and freezer seals. You can deal with mild cases using a weak bleach solution followed by a quick wipe with white vinegar. 
 
Carpets and Carpet Pads 
Carpets and carpet pads provide an environment where mold can propagate unnoticed, especially if a carpet gets wet. If your floor coverings get wet, call us at once. Our skilled teams come with free standing and truck mounted pumps and extraction tools to remove water and lessen the risk of fungus growing under your carpet or pad. 
 
SERVPRO of Laurel  recommends putting in a call to us at the first sign of mold in your home. Our IICRC certified technicians come prepared to set up containment to protect the rest of your home before getting to work on thoroughly cleaning the affected area. We use powerful HEPA vacuums to vacuum loose spores from surfaces, along with a combination of sanding, wire brush scrubbing, dusting, and wiping with a detergent solution to ensure each surface is properly cleaned of mold. We also use negative air machines when needed, to vent contaminated air outside your home. 
 
When mold cleaning is complete, our trained experts bring in dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the affected room, carpet, or area back to its normal level of dryness and discourage further growth. 
 
If you suspect mold growth in your home, give SERVPRO of Laurel a call at (601)425-1070 today.

Steps to removing water and drying your home after a failed appliance causes a flood

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

Steps to removing water and drying your home after a failed appliance causes a flood

Most flooding problems in homes come from the inside, rather than from a rising creek or river. In many of these cases, the problem results from a failed dishwasher or a split intake hose for a clothes washer.

Appliance flood damage sounds simple, but the truth is very different. A failure of either of these machines can drop over five gallons of water on the floor every hour. SERVPRO of Laurel knows that if this happens in the morning after everyone leaves for work, that means an entire, three-bedroom room can be under an inch of water before the homeowner or renter walks in to find a disaster.

The only advantage to dealing with flooding from such an inside source is that it is clean water. There is no contamination to have to worry about, so there is no need for special protective gear and since cleaning the surfaces is not required, the overall time necessary for the job is far less as well.

The first step we take is to stop the flow of water. If a resident has not turned off the water main, we do it immediately after arriving on the property.

Next, we get to work removing standing water. For any amount over an inch, we start with commercial grade water pumps. These machines can empty out an average home in an afternoon, allowing us to bring in more equipment and inspect for damage to floors, carpets, and walls. If the power is out, we bring in our generators for uninterrupted electrical support.

If there is no permanent damage, we draw out remaining water trapped on carpets and floors. Technicians use extraction wands which are designed to bring out the water without harming wood surfaces or damaging the nap of the rug. This part of the job is more time-consuming and can take up to a full day or more.

With the water removed, we now lower the moisture levels in the surrounding air. To do so, we use dehumidifiers to draw moisture out of the air. Each device can remove over twenty gallons every day depending on the humidity and size of the dehumidifier we use. We perform this task to prevent the possibility of rot or mold growth in the walls and floors.

Drying out your home is not an easy process, but the right restoration company can do it quickly and safely. SERVPRO of Laurel has years of experience helping our neighbors put their homes back together after a flood. If you need our help, call today at 601-425-0119

THE REASONS YOU SHOULD SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP AFTER A FLOOD

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

Here’s Why You Should Seek Professional Help After A Flood

Water is one of the most long-term destructive substance in homes and business premises. Excess and unwanted moisture or flooding could cause the deterioration of personal property and even the building's structure. Therefore, it is imperative to seek water damage restoration services from qualified professionals before the water in home and water in business causes severe losses.

It is necessary to call a restoration company as soon as there is excess moisture in home and water in business premises or when there is flood damage. Water cleanup services serve the purpose of mitigating the harmful effects of water, especially within the first 48 hours. Whether the water damage looks severe or not, a quick cleanup can produce excellent results.

If not addressed in the quickest time possible, excess water in home or water in business can cause expensive damage to the home structures and furniture. More so, it can promote electrical hazards and also lead to the growth and spread of mold.

Water in business and water in home may be as a result of clogged toilets, overflowing washing machines, pipe break, plumbing leaks, leaky roofs, supply line break among other causes. Fortunately, home and business owners can access a professional restoration company as quick as possible. The mitigation process involves the use of the industry’s best techniques handled by qualified personnel to free home and business premises of flood damage and water damage.

The effects of a flooded home can quickly jump from bad to irreparable. If not catered for in the shortest time possible, a flooded home may result to secondary damages that are accompanied by costly repairs. Water mitigation is a way of water damage restoration which stops water from spreading. If the water spreads, it can cause severe damage to the structures in the premises. A quick mitigation by skilled professionals prevents the spread, reducing the water damage costs.

The water cleanup process is very scientific, and for the professionals to determine if the business or home structures should be restored or replaced, they evaluate the following:
• The degree of contamination
• The amount of property damage, and
• The replacement costs versus the restoration costs

The water in home and businesses if not quickly dealt with could cause massive business interruption and financial burdens. Mold is also a major problem caused by excess moisture. To prevent mold and mildew from developing, it is imperative to get a fast response from the professional water restoration company. These professionals ensure to apply the safest removal methods so that the affected business and home premises are repaired promptly and professionally.

Both pipe breaks and supply line breaks are a major cause of a flooded home. And if the drying is not done as is required, there is a major risk for the property to be prone to flood damage. Professional flood damage restoration firms help homeowners to get the proof of damage as well as a list of the required repairs. If drying is done through the proper methods, a flooded home can be restored to its former state.

Each water and flood damage scenario is different, and each needs a unique solution. Professionals are well aware of how to carry out the necessary process whether the damage is as a result of pipe breaks, plumbing leaks, and supply line break. However, the general process involves the following steps:
• Emergency contact
• Inspection and damage assessment
• Water removal
• Drying and dehumidification
• Cleaning and sanitizing, and
• Restoration

The damage caused by water has many sources, from natural disasters to supply line break, and more often than not pipe break. Despite the source, Restoration Company professionals can carry out the water mitigation and drying process as is expected. Moreover, there are many benefits associated with the water cleanup process.

Water cleanup benefits
1. Rapid restoration
2. Preventing mildew and mold
3. Important details are addressed
4. There is professional input
5. Insurance issues are handled.
CALL- 601-425-0119 for more information on water damage.

Get Advice and Tips from the Pros

8/5/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a franchise company. SERVPRO has been in business for over 35 years. Experience, coupled with training, has made given them quite a bit of knowledge to pass on to their clients. SERVPRO of Laurel is owned and staffed by highly trained and specialized personnel that really desire to help you in whatever  cleanup or recovery situation you find yourself in. There are many things that you can do and many you shouldn't do before SERVPRO arrives to help you with your fire, water damage, smoke damage, vandalism, or even harmful waste issues. The "do's and don'ts" so to speak.

For instance with fire or smoke damage -

DO

. Limit your movement in the home or business to prevent soot particles from becoming embedded in upholstery or carpets

. Keep your hands clean. Soot transfers easily and can damage many surfaces including woodwork

DON'T

. attempt to wash walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Laurel

. Consume any canned or packaged food or beverage that may have been close to the fire

With Water Damage..

DO

. Shut off water source if possible

. Turn off circuit breakers fro wet areas of the building

DON'T

. Enter rooms with standing water where electrical hazards may exist

. Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet

Be prepared for all emergencies by learning all you can about what to do until help arrives.

An extensive list can be obtained by calling SERVPRO of Laurel  

601-425-0119

Better than before

8/4/2017 (Permalink)

Recently a customer with rental property was checking his property after the tenants had moved. In his inspection he discovered that the carpets in the master bedroom had been taken care of very poorly. The property owner shared his dismay with his real estate agent and she came and inspected the carpets as well. " you will have to change the flooring because these carpets can not be cleaned" This particular real estate agent had much experience in this area and so the home owner begin to make plans to replace the carpet. As a last ditch effort the home owner called a friend who was with SERVPRO and asked if there were any possibilities available. SERVPRO responded and cleaned the carpet. The home owner was ecstatic! The carpets which were originally almost white were in better shape after SERVPRO cleaned them than they were before the renters moved in. SERVPRO has experience and training that allows them to clean and restore what many would say can not be helped. Before you accept that your project is not doable... do yourself a solid favor and call SERVPRO of Laurel @ 601-425-0119.

Your anticipated replacement could become restored... Better than before!

SERVPRO has many methods of Deodorization.

8/4/2017 (Permalink)

A few of SERVPRO'S many machines used to deodorize a customers home or business.

SERVPRO of Laurel has many methods to deodorize a nuisance odor in your home or business.  We have several specialized deodorizers which are applied by ULV and Thermal Foggers.  We also have Ozone Generators for those hard to eliminate odors.  Hydroxyl Generators are another tool we have for eliminating unpleasant odors.  We can help make that problem odor "Like it never even happened."

Thermal fogging uses a special solvent or water based deodorizer that is heated and applied as a dry fog.  This allows the deodorizer to get into all areas of the structure.

Ozone is used to oxidize organic odors such as smoke, pet odors, mildew, organic pollutants and more without the use of chemicals.  This is done by the ozone machine using an electrical current to split oxygen molecules it the air (O2)resulting in a free oxygen molecule which reattached to the oxygen in the air and resulting (O3) ozone.  Ozone can only be used when humans, plants, and animals are not in the area.  The area needs to be dry when using ozone because it can cause bleaching if the area is wet.

Hydroxyl generators are used in a method similar to ozone, but can be ran in occupied areas.  If ozone can be used for one day, hydroxyl generators will typically take three to five days.  The results are similar to ozone but are safer because people do not have to be removed from the home or business.

If your experiencing odors in your home or business, give SERVPRO of Laurel the opportunity to  make that odor "Like it never even happened."

Mold in Your Home or Business?

8/3/2017 (Permalink)

A water damage not detected and dried in a timely manner can lead to mold in your home or business. SERVPRO of Laurel is here to help.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold issues.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (601) 425-0119

SERVPRO of Laurel 24 hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/3/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel has both portable and truck mount extractors. We can handle any job from the smallest room to the largest commercial facility.

SERVPRO of LAUREL is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (601)425-0119

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. SERVPRO of LAUREL has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• 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)?

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of LAUREL specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

Every 18 Seconds

7/17/2017 (Permalink)

7/7/2017

Every 18 seconds a fire occurs somewhere in the U.S.! After experiencing such an event our hearts usually are overwhelmed with the long process of recovery. SERVPRO of Laurel can help alleviate much of the burden of cleaning up and restoring your business, home, and belongings. After a fire SERVPRO will begin to assess your needs. SERVPRO determines what your needs are and then assesses what is restorable and what methods will be used in restoration. The structure and contents will be cleaned by trained experts using either wet or dry cleaning. All restorable contents are cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, draperies, and upholstery. Additionally, all other restorable content such as electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric and brac, and much more will be cleaned and deodorized as well.

Why not set your mind at ease by being prepared for the possibility of a fire? Familiarize yourself with the professionals at SERVPRO of Laurel.

(601) 425-0119

Do you know what is in your ductwork?

7/6/2017 (Permalink)

What is Lurking in Your Ducts?

DO you know what is in your ductwork?

Often what we can not see get ignored or overlooked. The ventilation systems in our homes are often the reason for poor air quality, and health issues because of what is hiding in the duct work. Unattended ductwork can circulate odors, mold, and other potential health hazards in your home or business.

SERVPRO of Laurel offers services that will both inspect and clean your ductwork to rid them of such contaminants. Keeping the HVAC system and ductwork clean can definitely extend the life of your system and allow it to run at its best. Thsi can save you both heartache and money. SERVPRO also uses patented equipment to examine your ductwork and system and also clean out dust and grim. Not all ductwork or HVAC systems will need cleaning but SERVPRO of Laurel will still give you recommendations on how to improve air quality and maintain your system. SERVPRO's process will give you peace of mind and save you money!

Get started today by giving SERVPRO of Laurel at (601) 425-0119!

High Traffic Areas

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

Before and after photos of a recent Strip and wax job by SERVPRO of Laurel

Servopro of Laurel often is involved in both maintaining and restoring high traffic areas on floors in both businesses and residential areas. Floors that are exposed to high traffic can often become an unbecoming part of a business or residence. Recently SERVPRO of Laurel stripped and waxed floors in a local church and the result was AMAZING! While restoring the worn areas of rugs, carpets, and hard surfaces is possible, routine upkeep and maintenance can add life to your high traffic areas. SERVPRO specializes in both areas and constantly produce results that are not only pleasing to the customer but are also above and beyond the expectations of most. If you have floors that are in need of deep cleaning and restoration or are just interested in extending the life and appeal of your floors... contact SERVPRO of Laurel for more information. 601-425-0119

SERVPRO of Laurel 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

4/15/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel provides 24 Hour Fire & Water Damage Restoration Service.

SERVPRO of LAUREL is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (601)425-0119

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. SERVPRO of LAUREL has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• 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)?

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of LAUREL specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.