How Many Fire Detectors Do You Need?

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to smoke alarms, many homeowners do not realize that most homes require more than just a couple of alarms in order to properly give a warning in an emergency scenario. Here are a few things to keep in mind when figuring out how many smoke alarms your home will need.

The safest smoke alarms are ones that are hardwired and interconnected. This means that when one alarm goes off, they all go off. This is important because you may not hear an alarm go off in a different area of your house if you are too far away or behind closed doors. If your home has interconnected smoke alarms, you can still add battery-powered stand-alone alarms as well for additional safety.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, your home should have at least one smoke alarm on every level of the home including the basement. Additionally, there should be one in every bedroom and outside of every sleeping area. For example, a two-story home, with two bedrooms and a basement should have a minimum of five smoke alarms. One on each floor, and one in each bedroom. Another thing to consider is their placement, for example, if your smoke alarm is in your kitchen, you should place it at least ten feet from the cooking appliances like the stove and oven to help mitigate false alarms. You can also use a photoelectric type of alarm in your kitchen to further mitigate the chance of false alarms.

Smoke alarms don’t prevent fires, but they are the first line of defense for your family in an emergency. Properly functioning fire alarms are a crucial part of your home safety. You should check them once a month to ensure proper function and replace the batteries twice a year, usually, people use switching the clocks for daylight savings time as a reminder of when to change the batteries. Additionally, smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years.

While we hope you won’t ever have to call us, if you should find yourself in need of a professional fire restoration company SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is here to help. With over 35 years of experience in the restoration industry, our teams are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to help make your fire loss “Like it never even happened.”

Why Your Building Needs Duct Cleaning

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

While most people know the SERVPRO brand for our water and fire damage restoration services, we also provide other crucial services to homes and businesses. One of such services is duct cleaning.

Air ducts perform the essential functions of moving the air around your building, providing hot or cold air depending on the season, and helping to maintain proper air quality and circulation. Like everything else in your home or business, it requires regular maintenance and cleaning to perform at its best. Over time, ducts can be filled with dust and dirt particles, or even mold spores, and other harmful contaminants. While your HVAC’s air filters are meant to help remove these things from the air, they don’t always get all of it, and a build-up can occur in the ducts. This buildup can limit airflow and ultimately affect your HVAC system’s efficiency. Not only will this increase your energy costs, but it can also make it harder to maintain a comfortable environment for your staff and customers. Not only are you losing efficiency and air quality by neglecting your air ducts, but if left long enough this dust buildup can become a huge fire hazard.

Air duct cleaning should be done roughly every three to five years, or more depending on the building and what it’s used for. If your business needs a duct cleaning give us a call or fill out our form online and let us know how we can help!

Warehouse Disasters

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Warehouses are a crucial part of many businesses. From holding raw materials for production, spaces for equipment, and even offices, losing the use of a warehouse can lead to business interruptions that would be detrimental to any company.

Unfortunately, warehouses are not immune to the dangers of fire and water damage. Busted pipes can cause huge amounts of damage to inventory and fires can wreak havoc on a production space. Fortunately, our team here at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is experienced in handling losses of all sizes. Whether it’s a small storage space or a 50,000 square foot production facility we’re here to help. With a network of over two thousand franchises across the country, we have the resources to tackle any emergencies that may happen. If possible, we can work with you to build a containment area for the loss to help prevent any business interruptions and we also are able to perform contents restoration in some instances helping you to lower your inventory loss and ultimately the overall costs of getting your business back to preloss conditions.

When your business experiences water or fire damage at your warehouse, you’ll need a professional restoration company that can work with your needs and understands what it takes to get the job done efficiently and effectively. That’s why our team is constantly training in the latest technology and techniques to help ensure that we can make your warehouse loss “Like it never even happened.”

Things to Know about Fire Spinklers

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

Selecting the best fire sprinkler system for your commercial building can be a tough decision. There are many different options, all with their own pros and cons, and each with specific applications in mind. Here are a few things that you should consider when choosing your fire sprinkler system.

• Different Suppressors – The typical sprinkler system uses water to put out fires, but there are other kinds as well. If your building has a lot of machinery or electronics that can be damaged by water, there are also chemical suppressants, and even systems that use inert gasses to smother the fire that won’t damage electronics.
• The Amount of Suppressant – Different systems will use different amounts of suppressant. Depending on your building's size and use, this is something else that you should consider.
• Trigger Types – This is the part of the sprinkler that will cause it to activate and there are a few different types. Some are electronic sensors that are connected to the system and will trigger when they detect the presence of smoke, and others involve components that will break or burst at a certain temperature.
• Location – Deciding where to place your sprinklers is another important factor in your sprinkler installation. For this, it’s best left to a professional to walk your building with you and point out the key areas where they should go.
• Cleanup – One final thing that you should consider is the cleanup process. Because different systems use different means to smother the fire, the means by which you’ll need to clean up afterward will be different. In most cases, you’ll need the services of a professional company to properly clean up after the system is set off.

Choosing the right sprinkler system for your building is a crucial part of making sure you minimize the risks of fires for your business. While sprinklers do not stop fires from happening, a properly functioning fire suppression system could be the difference between a small business interruption, and a total loss of property. If your business has experienced a fire, our team here at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is available 24/7, 365 days a year for emergency services. Give us a call and let us know how we can help you get your business back to “Like it never even happened.”

Odor Issues in Your Commercial Buildings

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

Part of being leaders in the restoration industry is understanding the different odors that can be present in a building and how to deal with them. Deodorizing a large space like a commercial building can be challenging, but here are some of the most common causes of unpleasant odors and steps you can take to deal with them.

Restrooms – Obviously restrooms are first on this list. Most commonly, odors in restrooms stem from urine and/or mildew buildup. It’s important to regularly mop and wipe down the walls with a disinfectant. Pay close attention to corners, under sinks, and around toilets where moisture tends to build up.

Drains – Regardless of the building’s use, there’s likely to be multiple drains in a commercial building. Whether it’s kitchen drains, floor drains, bathroom sinks, or any other drainage, they can all be the culprit in causing unwanted odors in your building. Be sure that nothing is being put into the drains that shouldn’t be and it’s recommended to regularly flush out your drains to ensure proper function, and to clean out any debris that may have found its way inside.

Mold and Mildew – Mold and mildew are very common causes of odors in commercial buildings. Fortunately, these are usually the easiest to figure out as they carry that specific musty smell that everyone is all too familiar with. Most likely, you’ll find mold and mildew in areas that typically have a higher humidity like basements, crawl spaces, restrooms, or laundry facilities. If you have areas in your building that are often found to have higher moisture levels, you should consider utilizing a dehumidifier. If you do find mold or mildew, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is certified in mold remediation. Give us a call and let our trained techs professionally handle your mold issues.

When odors are often one of the first things someone encounters when entering a building, keeping your space odor free is a crucial part of creating good first impressions on clients as well as keeping staff from having to deal with them on a day-to-day basis. If your property is suffering from lingering unwanted smells our team is here to help! We’re constantly training in the latest techniques and technology to help ensure our process is as efficient and effective as possible.

Tips for Flood Prevention

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico, our team of professionals works tirelessly to help restore the homes and businesses in our local community. We’re equipped with the experience and technology to help restore your property regardless of the size or extent of the storm disaster. However, there are some steps that you can take to help prevent damages and limit your losses from a storm.

• Regularly inspect your home or business for damage and to ensure that everything is functioning as it should such as your sump pump, door seals, roof, and siding.
• Regularly clean your gutters and make sure downspouts are properly draining water away from the building.
• Make an emergency plan and know what to do should damage occur to your property. If you’re a business, we offer a free program called the emergency ready plan that will help you with this.
• Make sure you understand your insurance policies and what’s covered. Most standard policies do not cover flood damage and will require a separate flood policy.
• Install flood prevention measures if you live in a flood prone area.

While these tips may not completely prevent damage to your home or business in a storm, they will help to lower your risks of serious damage. If you’re in need of storm damage restoration give us a call, we’re available 24/7, 365 days a year for emergency services.

Flood Damage vs Other Water Damage

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in your home is unfortunately not an uncommon problem for homeowners to face. From leaky toilets, busted pipes, or heavy rainstorms, there are a multitude of different ways water can damage your home. With all of these different avenues for water to get into your home, it’s important to note that not all water damage is treated equally. The damage caused and the means to clean it up will be different depending on the source. One of the biggest differences is between something like a busted or leaky pipe, and flood waters from a storm.

To better understand the difference between these events, you should know the difference between the three categories of water damage. Category one is considered clean water. This water does not pose a health threat actively and is typically caused by things like broken water lines or sink overflows. Category two is gray water. Gray water is water that may be contaminated and could potentially pose a health risk if ingested. Things like broken toilets (with no sewage) and broken sump pumps usually fall into this category. Category three is black water. This is water that is completely unsanitary and contains bacteria or other organisms that can make you sick. Water damage that falls into category three is usually caused by sewage, other water damage that has been sitting for multiple days, or flood waters.

Because flood water damage is caused by water entering the home from the outside, it likely contains bacteria or other organisms, as opposed to something like an ice maker line breaking and getting clean water all over your kitchen. Since this storm water poses a health risk it needs to be treated differently. PPE must be worn, and any surfaces that may have come in contact with the water should be properly sanitized or even removed depending on the extent of the damage. Since things like drywall, insulation, and fabrics are especially porous it can be difficult to make sure that they are cleaned well enough to not be a continued health risk after the water is cleaned up. Another factor is because the water is already contaminated with bacteria and microorganisms, the likelihood of mold growth and secondary damage is much higher than with something like a pipe bursting.

If your home suffers from a flood, you should not try and clean up the water yourself. Without the proper knowledge and safety equipment you’re putting yourself at risk as well as putting your home at risk if you are unable to properly find and dry out all of the hidden pockets of moisture. Our team at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is expertly trained in dealing with these scenarios and can help ensure that your home is dried out and cleaned up in the most efficient and effective way. We’re available 24/7, 365 days a year for emergency services. Please give us a call or fill out a form online and let us know how we can help!

Why Use Professionals for Water Damage

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in your home is always a serious matter. Whether it’s a leaky washing machine or an inch of water in your basement, it’s never a good idea to try and take on the task yourself. Cleaning up water damage properly takes the right training and tools to make sure the job is done right.

Here are a few reasons why it’s important to call a professional company like us here at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico to help with your home’s water damage.

• Safety
  • Any time there is water entering your home from the outside, whether from rain or a flood, it is considered category three or black water. This means that the water has potentially a large amount of contamination and could cause harm to your or your family if you try and clean it up without the proper protective gear.

• Tools
  • Simply put, soaking up the visible water with towels and using household fans to try and dry out the area is almost never enough. Water can seep behind walls, under flooring, and cause damage anywhere it touches. Our team is constantly training with the latest tools like water extractors, hygrometers, and thermal imaging, to help ensure that no hidden pockets of moisture are missed.

• Efficiency
  • When it comes to water damage time is truly one of the biggest factors in the amount of damage that is caused. Water will continue to degrade your property until it is completely dried out, and mold can start to grow in less than 24 hours. It is essential that your water damage is addressed as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Working in the restoration industry, our teams understand just how much damage can be caused by water and know the importance of getting your home back to preloss conditions as soon as possible. If your property has suffered from water damage please give us a call or fill out our online form and let us know how we can help to get your home back to “Like it never even happened.”

Preventing Workplace Fires

7/8/2022 (Permalink)

The U.S Fire Administration estimates that there were over 110,000 fires in non-residential buildings in 2019, resulting in almost $3 billion in damages. A majority of these fires were caused by things that could’ve been avoided with proper preparation and training. Here are some of the more common causes of fires in commercial buildings and ways to help prevent them.

• Cooking Fires
  • Cooking fires accounted for almost one-third of the nonresidential building fires. Make sure that employees are trained on proper cooking safety with the elements provided to them. Avoid clutter in the kitchens and breakrooms and if you have a stove/oven make sure to keep those areas clear of combustible materials. Regular cleaning can help to reduce dirt, dust, and grease build-up, all of which can contribute to causing fires.

• Flammable Items
  • In addition to making sure the kitchen and cooking areas are clean, it’s also important to ensure that the rest of the building is free of clutter and that combustible materials like paper, cardboard, and wood are properly disposed of. In the event of a fire, a buildup of these materials can greatly increase the risk of the fire spreading and being more difficult to put out.

• Arson
  • Arson or otherwise intentionally set fires are in the top three causes of nonresidential fires. You can help reduce your risk of being affected by these kinds of fires with properly maintained security systems such as CCTV, motion sensor flood lighting, and fire detection systems.

• Human Error
  • While you can’t always prevent accidents from happening, ensuring that your employees are properly trained in fire safety programs can greatly reduce the risk to your property. Consider putting in place annual safety briefings to make sure the knowledge is up to date and fresh in everyone’s minds.

• Electronics
  • Going along with human error, electronics are also a huge cause of commercial fires. Regular inspections and maintenance of electronics can reduce the risks of faulty equipment. Make sure employees are trained on safe equipment usage and be mindful of loose wires and equipment placement.

Remember that fire prevention is not something that is a one-time only action. To help ensure that you’re doing everything you can to reduce the risk of fires on your property, you’ll need to regularly keep up with these tasks and check with employees to make sure they are following proper procedures. We hope these tips will help you to prevent fires in your workplace, however if you unfortunately find yourself dealing with a fire in your building SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is available 24/7, 365 days a year to help make your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Flood Damage to Your Business?

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Flood damage in your business is something that no business or property owner ever wants to experience, however sometimes nature gets in the way and it’s out of your control. If you do experience flood damage on your property, here are a few things that you should keep in mind.

First you should understand that flood water is considered category 3 or “black water.” This means that the water is highly contaminated and can potentially cause serious harm. You should never attempt to clean up flood water without the proper protective equipment.

Second, when your property floods you should first be sure to turn off the electricity and/or gas to the property until you can be sure that they are not affected. Never attempt to enter an area affected by flood waters without first checking to make sure that the electricity is off. Not only is it a huge safety hazard, but electrical equipment that is affected by water can short out and cause fires.

Another thing to consider is the amount of time the water has been sitting. Water damage happens very quickly and the structure to your property can start to be affected in only a few days. As the water sits, it starts to degrade the property’s building materials and if left untreated for too long it can make the building unsafe to be inside of.

Finally, you should always let a professional company handle flood water cleanup. It can be tempting to try and clean up the damage yourself but without the proper knowledge and equipment it is possible to miss areas of hidden moisture which can then lead to secondary damages such as mold.

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is equipped to handle flood damages of any size. Our disaster recovery team is made of elite technicians that have been trained to deal with large losses requiring extra expertise and knowledge. Whether your property is a hotel, warehouse, factory, or hospital our team can help make your flood damage “Like it never even happened."

Repairing or Replacing Wet Carpet

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers from water damage, one of the first things you’ll have to do is decide what is repairable and what must be replaced. Since they’re on the floor, carpets are one of the main items often affected. While it is possible to repair and dry out carpeting after a water damage there are a few factors to consider in your decision.

Does the carpet have padding? – Household and sometimes office carpeting will have padding underneath it to make it more comfortable. Unfortunately, this padding can act as a sponge and make drying out the carpet difficult, as well as increase the likelihood of damage to the flooring beneath it. Luckily, you may only need to replace the padding and not the entire carpet.

What kind of water was it? – Water is classified into three categories depending on the level of contamination. These levels vary depending on the source of the water and areas affected. Water from a freshwater line or a broken pipe is typically considered category one water and is likely not contaminated, but water from a flood or a toilet backup is considered to be category 3, which is highly contaminated. Any damage done to carpeting by category three water should be cut out and replaced to ensure no harmful bacteria is left behind.

How long has the water been there? – Unfortunately, when water damage happens, the damage will continue to get worse until the water is removed. Mold can begin to grow in less than 24 hours, carpets can separate from their backing, and subflooring can begin to deteriorate. In cases where water has been left for more than a day, the best course of action is usually to replace it.

Whether you’re repairing or replacing, our SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico team can help you navigate your water damage from the initial loss all the way through repairs. Using specialized equipment, we can help you decide the level of damage done and whether or not repairs are feasible. Give us a call or fill out a form online and let us know how we can help get your life back to “Like it never even happened.”

Things To Throw Away After a Fire

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

Fires in your home are always a traumatic and overwhelming experience. Once the fire department leaves and it’s time for cleanup to begin, it can sometimes be difficult to know what items are okay to keep or can be salvaged, and what items should be thrown away. Here are some things that should always be thrown away and replaced.

Cosmetics – Heat can alter the composition of the makeup and melt or damage the containers that they come in. In addition, soot, ash, or fire extinguishing chemicals can make their way into the cosmetics and then onto your skin if you use them.

Medicine – Similarly to cosmetics the heat can alter the composition of the medications and change their effectiveness or have potentially harmful effects. It’s also possible for the soot and ash to get inside the bottles and you don’t want to ingest these should they get on your medications.

Perishable food – All perishable foods should be thrown away.  It is possible that things in your fridge or freezer are okay, but if there is any evidence that the power was lost or if the room affected was the kitchen those should be thrown away as well.

Non-Perishable food – Despite the fact that non perishables typically are in containers like aluminum cans it is still possible that they can be ruined if exposed to a fire. The heat can cause bacteria to grow or damage the cans, and soot/smoke can still penetrate the can and spoil the foods. If there are any signs that your non-perishables were exposed to heat or smoke, they should be thrown out.

Charred clothing, bedding, upholstery – Any of these items that are visually burned are unfortunately not salvageable. Despite cleaning them it may not be possible to completely remove any odors or contaminants from the items.

Furniture and mattresses – Smoke and soot can easily penetrate soft and porous items like these and they are very difficult to clean completely.  It can be nearly impossible to remove smoke odors from furniture and beds, and thus it’s best to just get rid of them.

If you experience a fire in your home, our team is IICRC certified in fire damage restoration and can help walk you through your affected items to help you decide what can and cannot be salvaged. SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is available 24/7, 365 days a year for all of your emergency fire damage needs.

SERVPRO Does Board-up Services

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

Storms, trees and even vandalism can lead to some serious damages to your property. In the event that you should find your business with broken windows or a damaged roof, did you know that SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico offers board-up and roof tarping services?

It is crucial that you address any of these damages as soon as possible to help prevent any further harm to your property. Broken windows and roof damage can leave the inside of your building exposed to the elements or even intruders. SERVPRO technicians will come out to your property to assess the situation and decide what needs to be done to help secure your building.

Upon arrival our team of professionals will inspect your building and be sure to identify all of the damaged areas that need to be addressed. Next, we will clean up any debris left behind due to the damage and take measurements of the areas that need covered. Then we use approved board-up techniques to help minimize further damage and secure your home or business from weather, animals, and illegal entry.

After the board-up is complete we can also do an assessment of your interior materials and personal property in order to advise next steps. SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico offers turn-key service, meaning that from the initial damage assessment to full repairs we can handle it all. You won’t need to deal with multiple companies to handle your property damage! Our team is available 24/7, 365 days a year for emergency services, so give us a call and let us know what we can do for you. We’re here to help!

What To Do If There's a Leak Under Your Sink

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

One of the areas of your home that are most prone to experiencing leaks is the kitchen, and water coming out from underneath your sink is something you never want to experience as a homeowner. It’s crucial that you know what to do should you find your sink to be leaking in order to help mitigate more damage from occurring. Here are the steps that you should follow in the event of a leak in your kitchen.

1. Shut off the water – Leaks under your sink are usually coming from your water pipes, and if you do not shut off the water to your house or at least to just the sink, then water could continue to leak out and spread around your home. It’s best to cut the main water source off until you’ve figured out the source of the leak.
2. Household Items – Once you’ve stopped the source of the leak you can start to protect your home and belongings from any further damage. Move any items that could come into contact with the water off the floor or out of the room to keep them dry.
3. Excess Water – Use towels or a mop to start removing any standing water off your floors.
4. Insurance – Call your insurance company to inform them about the water damage. They’ll be able to tell you what your policy covers and the next steps to take in fixing your home.
5. Call a Professional Restoration Service – Water damage mitigation and restoration should be left to trained professionals. With state-of-the-art equipment and constant training, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico technicians are able to dry out your home in the most efficient way possible. Without the use of professional equipment, it can be easy to miss hidden wet spots that if left unchecked can cause even further damage to your home.

Water damage is one of the more costly events that could happen to your home. The key to helping reduce both the damage done and the cost to fix it is in acting as quickly as possible. The faster your home is dried out the less damage the water can cause, making restoration efforts easier as well. Calling a water damage restoration company should be one of the first things that you do after discovering a leak in your home, our team is available 24/7, 365 days a year to help make your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Grilling Safety

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Warm weather is finally here and what better way to spend some time outside with friends and family than with a cookout! Grilling food is always a great time but it’s important to make sure that you take the proper safety precautions to avoid any accidents!

1)  Your grill should be placed away from your house. If placed too close to your home the heat from the grill can damage your siding or worse if the flames get out of control, light your house on fire. For these same reasons you should not place your grill on your patio or deck, as well as underneath a roof or overhang.

2)  Cleaning your grill regularly is an important part of grill safety. Leftover grease and food scraps on a grill can build up and become a fire hazard. If you use a wire brush to clean your grill, be sure to check that the brush isn’t damaged as you don’t want to leave any metal bristles behind to get in your food.

3)  Never use a grill indoors or in an enclosed area. Grills produce carbon monoxide when lit and if used in an area without proper ventilation you can get carbon monoxide poisoning. It’s also a fire hazard.

4)  Inspecting your grill should be done along with cleaning before each use. If your grill uses propane be sure that the tank is not damaged and all the lines are properly secured with no leaks.

5)  When it’s time to put the grill away make sure that you give it time to cool off first. Grill covers are made of plastic and can melt or catch on fire if the grill is still too hot. In addition, if you use a charcoal grill be sure to dispose of the ashes in a metal container and store them away from your home. Ashes from a grill can still catch on fire.

Everyone loves to spend time outside and grilling food for your friends and family is a great way to do that. As long as you follow the proper safety procedures you can help to ensure that no emergencies will happen. If you do however have a fire emergency due to your grill this summer SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is here to help! Our team of highly trained technicians are available 24/7, 365 days a year to help make your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

The Dangers of a Storm Surge

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Hurricanes can cause damage in a number of different ways. Perhaps the most damaging and dangerous of which is the storm surge, but what is a storm surge?  These events are when there is a large rise of water due to a storm that is above what was predicted for high tide. These surges push water inland where it normally wouldn’t be flooding homes and businesses and causing a vast amount of damage. Often these surges of water linger and take days to subside after the storm, leaving behind mud, sewage, and other harmful contaminants wherever they touched. In addition to the extensive water damage caused by days of exposure. Millions of homes are at risk of damage from storm surges each hurricane season in almost 20 states. One of the most notable storm surge events was in hurricane Katrina. Some affected areas were left under more than 25 feet of water, which is enough to completely submerge an average sized two-story home. It’s important to recognize the dangers that these storm events pose and to make sure that you follow your local government’s instructions during them in order to keep you and your family safe.

If your home sustains water damage from a storm surge or any other storm related event, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is here to help. As leaders in the industry and as part of the SERVPRO Disaster Response Team we know first hand the destructive forces of large storms and work diligently to help get your lives back to normal.

How Water Can Affect Your Home

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

When you experience water or flood damage in your Richmond home there are many different ways that the water can cause damage. SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico knows that dealing with these losses can be incredibly stressful and we waned to share with you some common water or flood damages to look out for in your home and how the water can affect the different aspects of your home.

Appliances – Electrical appliances can short out when they get wet and gas appliances could be compromised/damaged and leak gas into your home. Be sure to have all appliances cleaned and inspected by a professional before using them again.

Flood Coverings – After severe water damage like a flood, most things like carpet, laminate, or vinyl will need to be removed and replaced. This is particularly true with any backings made of absorbent materials like foam. Small or valuable rugs and are possibly salvageable if treated immediately by a professional.

HVAC – There are multiple aspects to your HVAC. First, the actual units can be flooded with water and electrical components can be damaged. If the flooding is severe enough dirt and mud can be left behind and clog up the system. These should be looked at and thoroughly cleaned by a professional to ensure that they are properly functioning and don’t need repairs. Second, the vents and ducting in your home should be inspected. Contaminants can get into the vents and ducts, and they will need to be cleaned before these harmful materials are blown throughout the home.

Drywall – This kind of material is incredibly porous and absorbs a lot of water. Any affected areas should be removed as even if fully dry, because of how porous they are they can remain contaminated.

Insulation – Fiberglass and cellulose insulation that has gotten wet is considered to be contaminated and should be completely removed and replaced. Foam sheets may be able to get cleaned and put back.

Wood – There are many different kinds of wood in your home and their ability to be repaired or need to be replaced depends on what kind. Hard wood: Furniture and other materials made of solid wood and warp and crack when they absorb water but otherwise have the potential to be saved if dried out quickly and properly. Particleboard & Laminated Wood: Water or flood damage in particleboard and laminate can lead to separation of the pieces and weakening of the structure and will likely need replaced.

Framing and Structural Materials - These materials are made of solid wood and if dried out properly and disinfected should likely not need to be replaced as long as these issues are addressed quickly.

Pipes and Wires – Flood waters can shift pipes and break them or damage electrical sockets and disconnect wires. If these items are damaged in your home, repairs should always be left to a knowledgeable professional to avoid injury or further damage to your home.

As you can see, there are quite a few ways that water can damage your home. While you may feel like it is possible to address these issues yourself, without the proper knowledge it is easy to cause more damage and you could potentially harm yourself. If you’ve experienced water damage in your Richmond area home, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our SERVPRO team is here to help 24/7, 365 days a year.

What To Do If Your Toilet Overflows

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

One of the more common sources of water damage in your home is from an overflowing toilet. They can get clogged, a septic system can stop draining, a sewer line back up could occur, and other causes too. Regardless of the cause it is important to address these issues immediately.

Addressing the source – As soon as you notice that the toilet is overflowing you should shut off the water. If you know the cause of the overflow is a clogged toilet you can try to unclog it yourself with a plunger, but otherwise you should call a plumber to get the source of the unwanted water fixed. Do not try and flush your toilet again until you’re positive that the overflow is fixed.

Water Cleanup – Toilet overflows are a more difficult type of water damage to clean up as the water is often either grey or black water. This is because toilet water often contains sewage and other contaminants that can make you sick.

Special equipment and materials should be used to clean and sanitize the areas affected. These cleanups should always be handled by professionals with the proper gear to make sure that there is no additional contamination and that the cleanup efforts are done in a safe manor. Regular household cleaning materials are inadequate to fully sanitize an area that has been affected by sewage.

Damage Assessment – When it comes to figuring out the extent of the water damage that has occurred there are a lot of factors.

One of the main factors is the materials that were used to build out your bathroom. Different types of flooring are more susceptible to damage. While some floors are able to be dried out if the damage is not significant, it’s possible that the flooring will need to be completely removed and replaced. The location of the bathroom can also affect the damage caused. If the bathroom is on an upper level of the house, there could be damage in between the floors or even in the ceiling of the level below. Additionally, if the source of the damage was grey or black water, much of the items that have absorbed any of the water should be disposed of.

Dealing with water damage from a toilet can be particularly difficult. You should never try and deal wit these kinds of water damages on your own as it can pose a risk to your health. Call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico and let our team of highly trained water damage mitigation professionals handle it.

What Happens if Water is Not Cleaned Up Properly?

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

When you experience water damage in your home or business it can be tempting to want to try and address it yourself to avoid the costs of paying a restoration company or dealing with your insurance, but it’s important to understand the risks in trying to DIY your water damage.

Water gets everywhere. When your refrigerator water line leaks or a bathroom tub overflows, the damage isn’t limited to just what you see. Water seeps into cracks, gets absorbed into the flooring and behind walls, belongings get wet, and essentially anything that the water touches is affected. Depending on the extent of the leak it can be nearly impossible to ensure that everything is properly dried out just from a visual inspection.

The biggest issue with this is that water will continue to damage your property until it is dried out. Left unchecked, these hidden moisture pockets can cause:

• Discoloring of your walls or floors
• Musty odors or mold issues
• Warped flooring or carpet separation
• Structural Deterioration

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is a leader in the restoration industry. Our team is IICRC certified in water damage mitigation and restoration services and uses the latest technology and techniques to ensure that your property is thoroughly dried out and there are no hidden areas left behind. If your home or business suffers from water damage don’t leave it up to chance, give us a call and let us know how we can help!

Portable Outdoor Heater Safety

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Everyone loves to spend time outside but during the winter months as the temperatures drop it can be difficult to do. Many people will enlist the help of portable heaters and fires to keep them warm. These activities are perfectly safe to do as long as you understand that they are also fire hazards. Luckily, as long as you take the proper safety precautions these hazards can be reduced greatly:

• Follow all manufacturer’s instructions for usage of fuel and fire starters.
  • Portable heaters should only be filled with the recommended fuel types
  • Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids in fire pits or campfires
  • Propane for heaters should always be stored properly
• Always be present
  • Never leave a portable heater running unattended, if you have to step away even for a moment turn it off and turn it back on when you return
  • If you have a fire, you should keep a bucket of water or a hose within reach while the fire is lit
  • When you put a fire out, stir the ashes around and make sure that all of the embers are extinguished and there aren’t any buried that are still smoldering
• Be mindful of placement
  • Portable heaters need to be placed on a level surface in a spot where they won’t be bumped or knocked over
  • Fire pits should be at least 10 feet away from your house
  • Watch children and pets and make sure they stay a safe distance from any heat sources
  • If you’re having a campfire the fire should be at least 25 feet from structures or anything that can burn, and always check for overhanging branches

Following these tips will allow you and your family to enjoy being outdoors, even when it gets cold, while still remaining safe.

Why Choose IICRC Restoration Professionals

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico we know that when it comes to your home or business there’s nothing more important than the quality of work you receive. Our team studies hard to ensure that they’re up to date on the latest industry standards and techniques and are constantly working to further their restoration knowledge.

Some of our team recently took part in a weeklong IICRC training on Fire and Water restoration before taking their tests to get officially IICRC certified. When you need restoration work done on your property, you can count on SERVPRO to be there with the tools to make it happen. Our team of professionals is ready for your call 24/7, 365 days a year. Please let us know how we can help you make it “Like it never even happened.”

Christmas Tree Safety

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Christmas time is just around the corner and there’s nothing more exciting than setting up the Christmas tree. Did you know that almost one third of all Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems? How about that while uncommon, when Christmas tree fires do happen, they are more likely to be serious?

Follow our list of tips to keep your family safe and help keep your home from suffering any fire damage this holiday season.

• Picking the tree – Make sure that when you’re looking for a tree that it is fresh and that green needles do not fall off when you touch them
• Placing the tree – Cut off the end of the base of the trunk before you place it in the stand. Make sure that wherever the tree is located is at least three feet from any heat sources. Don’t forget to water the tree daily to make sure it does not prematurely dry out.
• Lights – Make sure to check that your lights are meant for indoor use before putting them on your tree. Replace any strings of lights with worn out cords or broken bulbs. Do not forget to turn the lights off when you leave the house or go to bed

Fire damage to your home is always an incredibly unfortunate event, but even more so during the holiday season. Your neighborhood SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is here to help with any fire damage restoration and clean up that you may need following an accident to help get your holiday season back on track.

SERVPRO's Veteran Employee Shares Her Experience

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is proud to honor and support our veteran employees and we hope that you can be a part of our family too! We’ve asked one of our service members to share their experiences with SERVPRO and how SERVPRO could be the right place for you.

Amy Wingfield is one of our Job File Coordinators and served in both the Army and the Army National Guard.

SERVPRO: “Do the skills you learned during your service transfer to your current position here at SERVPRO?

Amy: “My Recruiting and Administrative Assistant roles provided me with the necessary skills needed to fulfill the expectations and requirements of my current position at SERVPRO of Chesterfield. Attention to detail, problem solving, training, time management, and the ability to adapt to many scenarios are some of the skills that have helped me be successful in my position as a Job File Coordinator.”

SERVPRO: “What do you like most about working for SERVPRO?”

Amy: “SERVPRO is fast paced, never the same, and you are learning every day. You can move up in some of the positions by working hard, dedication, attention to detail, and your willingness to go above and beyond expectations. Personally, I like the challenges I face daily in my position as a JFC and I have been supported by management and owners throughout some difficult times. The caring, appreciative environment is wonderful, and they do their best to ensure we know that we are important to the success of the franchises. “

SERVPRO: “What would you tell another veteran who is interested in working for SERVPRO?”

Amy: “If you are driven, want to grow with a company, and are open to learning something new, then your skill set will fit in nicely here. They honor us, show us appreciation for the time we served, and have the old “work hard play hard” thought process. This job can be physically and mentally challenging at times, however being a military member has taught us to push through and complete the mission. I say come join us and carve your path here!”

Our team is dedicated to being a workplace where veterans can feel comfortable and take advantage of the vast set of skills they have acquired throughout their service. If you think SERVPRO would be a good fit for you, we would love to hear from you.

SERVPRO of Richmond is IICRC Certified

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico strive to provide the best possible service that we can to our customers, and that’s why our employees are IICRC certified! But what does IICRC certification mean and why is it important for you?

IICRC is The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. This sets the standard for the cleaning and restoration industries. There are many different courses our technicians study:

• Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD) – This course teaches technicians how to dry out water damaged structures as efficiently and effectively as possible using state of the art monitoring, extraction, and drying equipment.
• Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) – This course covers fabric identification, cleaning chemicals, pre-inspection, and the proper cleaning techniques for both residential and commercial applications
• Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) – Technicians learn how to perform mold and sewage remediation techniques while making sure the health and safety of workers and occupants is protected
• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT) – In this class technicians learn about the different types of smoke and fire damage, cleaning procedures and odor/deodorization.
• Odor Control Technician (OCT) – Here technicians learn techniques to mitigate and remediate odors caused by sources like mold, smoke, urine, decomposition and more.
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician (UFT) – This class covers fiber identification and cleaning methods as well as how to identify issues such as shrinking, bleeding, crowning, or distorting before they occur
• Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) – Technicians learn to deal with sewer backflows, water losses, and contamination such as mold, as well as how water damage can affect the structures of both residential and commercial buildings

These classes and certifications mean that SERVPRO has the knowledge to make your commercial or residential loss “Like it never even happened.”

Are You Ready for This Upcoming Winter Storms?

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

Incoming winter storms can be an exciting time for everyone, with so much fun to be had playing in the snow, however winter storms can also bring a lot of problems if you aren’t prepared.

One of the biggest issues in winter storms is power loss. With ice on the trees and the snow getting heavy, branches inevitably fall and can take out power lines leaving you without electricity and potentially also no heat!

• Make sure that you and your family have plenty of flashlights and fresh batteries for them in case of a power outage, and most importantly make sure that everyone knows where they are in the house so that they’re easier to find when the lights go out and you need them most.
• If you know a storm is on the way, charge your devices (phones, computers, radios, etc.) before the storm hits, and consider purchasing a power bank for the extra boost in case you need it.
• Blankets and candles are important to keep around for warmth, just be sure to blow out your candles before you leave the room.
• Stock up on water and non-perishable foods as you may not be able to travel on the roads if the storm creates difficult driving conditions. It’s helpful to also have some food on hand that does not need to be cooked in case the power is out and you can no longer use your appliances.
• Always try to avoid traveling during a winter storm, but if you do have to travel during the storm always carry a blanket, water, some extra layers, and a fully charged cell phone in case you get stuck and need help.

Getting snowed in can sometimes be scary but as long as you’re prepared you can spend the time having fun with your family and not be concerned about your safety.

SERVPRO of Richmond Board Up Services

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

When your commercial property suffers an interruption to your operations time is of the essence to get back up and running again. SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is proud to offer you emergency restoration and recovery services 24/7, 365 days a year, so you know when you go with SERVPRO, we’ll do our best to get your business functioning again as fast as possible.

• The first step to emergency restoration and secondary damage protection is securing the property. Our professionals provide Board-Up services for any properties who have compromised entries or openings after damage occurs.
• The second step in the process of emergency restoration is secondary damage mitigation. This is damage to your property due to factors that are caused by the initial disaster.

Here at SERVPRO we offer board-up services to any property that needs to protect any entries or openings to the building that may be compromised.

Whether its from storms or wind, break-ins, fires or vehicle impacts SERVPRO is here to help protect your business from more damage after the fact so give us a call at 804-740-6151.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Richmond to Handle Your Damage?

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

When your home or business is faced with damage from storms, fire, or mold it’s easy to assume the worst. SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico believes that there is no loss too big for us to handle. We have the resources required to respond as fast as possible to help mitigate any further damage to your property and the knowledge to feel confident that we can make your loss “Like it never even happened.”

What makes SERVPRO so special?

• Our employees are constantly learning the newest mitigation strategies and techniques with state-of-the-art equipment to make sure your home or business gets the best possible service we can offer.

• We are an IICRC Certified firm. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification program means that you can rest assured our team has gone through extensive training and perform at the best of their abilities.

• We are family owned and operated. Our franchise team has over 35 years of experience serving our local community, with one of the largest franchises on the east coast. While we are locally owned, we still have the resources of a national company giving us the ability to respond faster and giving you the peace of mind you need when a disaster affects your property.

Are you Prepare for Winter Weather, RVA?

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Are you ready for this year’s winter storms?

Incoming winter storms can be an exciting time for everyone, with so much fun to be had playing in the snow, however winter storms can also bring a lot of problems if you aren’t prepared.

One of the biggest issues in winter storms is power loss. With ice on the trees and the snow getting heavy, branches inevitably fall and can take out power lines leaving you without electricity and potentially also no heat! Make sure that you and your family have plenty of flashlights and fresh batteries for them in case of a power outage, and most importantly make sure that everyone knows where they are in the house so that they’re easier to find when the lights go out and you need them most. If you know a storm is on the way, charge your devices (phones, computers, radios, etc.) before the storm hits, and consider purchasing a power bank for the extra boost in case you need it. Blankets and candles are important to keep around for warmth, just be sure to blow out your candles before you leave the room.

Stock up on water and non-perishable foods as you may not be able to travel on the roads if the storm creates difficult driving conditions. It’s helpful to also have some food on hand that does not need to be cooked in case the power is out and you can no longer use your appliances.

Always try to avoid traveling during a winter storm, but if you do have to travel during the storm always carry a blanket, water, some extra layers, and a fully charged cell phone in case you get stuck and need help.

Getting snowed in can sometimes be scary, but as long as you’re prepared you can spend the time having fun with your family and not be concerned about your safety.

Fire Prevention Week - Home Escape Plans

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

During Fire Prevention Week, our SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico team wants you and your family to be fully prepared in case there is a fire in your home. Planning you and your family’s escape could make all the difference should you ever have to encounter a fire emergency. First, get the facts:

• According to the National Fire Protection Association, 1 out of 3 American households have developed and practiced a fire escape plan at home.
• Although about 71% of Americans have an escape plan, only about 47% of those actually practiced it.
• You may have less than 6 minutes before a fire in your home becomes life-threatening.

Check out these home Escape Safety Tips from the NFPA:

• Make an escape plan with your household by drawing a map of the home including doors and windows and discuss the plan with everyone.
• Make sure you identify at least two ways out of every room
• Establish an outdoor meeting spot for all household members to meet once escaping the home
• Practice this escape plan at least twice a year
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them
• Always close doors behind you when leaving

New Hire Spotlight

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

New Hire Spotlight! Margaret Davis started in June as an Accounting Assistant.

“I was born in Surry County, VA and I graduated from John Tyler with an Associate’s degree in Accounting. Before I joined SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico, Plus, I worked for SFE Brands as an Accounting Analyst and prior to that role, I worked for Community Partners in the accounting department for over 10 years. While I’m not working, I love traveling, shopping, and eating out and trying new dishes. I also love to bake and try new desserts. 

I was interested in working for SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico, Plus because of the potential for growth and I’m really looking forward to growing with the company. The accounting team is awesome to work with and everyone is friendly and helpful!”

Be Weather Ready

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane Ida has wreaked havoc on Louisiana. Experts are calling this storm one of the most powerful to ever hit the U.S. as it knocked out power to all of New Orleans and a total of 1 million people. Roofs were blown off of many buildings and even the flow of the Mississippi River was reversed. So far there has been one fatality from this storm and our SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico team is thinking of all those affected by this horrific natural disaster.

With this storm in mind, it’s important to remind everyone of the importance of preparing for heavy winds and rains. According to Weather.gov, here is what you can do to be weather ready:

• Check the Weather: Check the forecast regularly to see if you're at risk for severe weather. Listen to local news to stay informed about severe thunderstorm watches and warnings.
• Sign Up for Notifications: download the local apps on your phone to be notified in case of emergency and to follow instructions.
• Make a Plan: Make sure your family knows where to meet in case of an emergency. Pick a safe room with no windows in your home such as a basement or a low level of the home.
• Practice Your Plan: Run drills with your family to practice what to do when bad weather is approaching. Don't forget pets if time allows.
• Prepare Your Home: Clear out your gutters and keep trees and branches trimmed near your house. Secure loose objects outdoors and make sure windows and doors are sealed properly.
• Help Your Neighbor: check in on your neighbors, especially ones who live alone or who are elderly. Make grocery runs for them or help secure their home for the storm.

Richmond, VA Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

If a fire erupts in your home or business, the flames are not the only thing you need to worry about affecting your structure and belongings.

Smoke and soot are almost always going to linger and affect everything in your home and it can even penetrate various cavities within your home. The smoke and soot reaching these cavities will damage the structure and cause a foul odor that needs immediate attention.

That’s why it’s important to call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico so our smoke damage expertise and experience can inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage, while developing 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

• Dry Smoke: Fast-burning, high-temperature fires, heat rises therefore smoke rises. Paper and wood materials produce this type of damage.

Wet Smoke: Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, dense. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean. Plastic and rubber produce this type of damage.

Call the professionals at 804-740-6151 to clean up any smoke and soot damage or residue after a fire in your home or business.

Call SERVPRO Professionals for Large Water Damage Emergencies

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Recently, Our SERVPRO of Chesterfield team was called to respond to an emergency water intrusion in a Richmond city manufacturing plant. A 24” water main broke out in the parking lot causing massive amounts of silty water to flow into the plant flooding about 80% of the 200,000sqft warehouse.

Because this was a huge project to take on, our SERVPRO of Chesterfield and SERVPRO of Tri-Cities, Plus were called with the necessary manpower, knowledge, and equipment to start working on water extraction and a plan of attack. Our team immediately began hours of extraction after the water was shut off and stayed until nightfall.

The following morning we are right back on the scene finishing up water extraction and beginning the equipment set up process. In large emergency water damages like these, it’s important to call the professionals who have the experience and tools to efficiently and strategically get the business back up and running as soon as possible.

Why You Should Call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team Bahen holds the morning line up of crew at a large loss in Jacksonville, Florida.

If or when a big water or fire damage occurs in your business, it’s important to call the professionals who are qualified to handle large commercial losses. Luckily our SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico franchise is considered a Disaster Recovery Team.

This means that we have some of the best of the best in the restoration industry who are stationed right here in Richmond to act fast when disaster strikes. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified with the necessary knowledge and tools to address these major losses. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

Disaster Recovery Team Bahen has the ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Our leaders know the business and know exactly what needs to be done in order to get your business back up and running ASAP.

The Importance of Smoke Alarms

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms are a necessary and effective tool to protect your home or business and the people in it. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you an early warning so you can get outside quickly. Here are some tips to give you peace of mind that your smoke detectors will work when you need it most:

• Know what kind of smoke detector you have: There are two types of smoke detectors commonly found in homes and businesses. A battery-operated smoke alarm is commonly found in households. An AC powered smoke detector, also known as hard-wired, is usually found in businesses. These detectors require battery backup to ensure that even during a blackout or an electrical fire, they will still function properly.
•  Ensure there are smoke alarms in the appropriate places: Places like hallways, stairs, sleeping areas need to have smoke alarms near them. Check with your local fire department to ensure you follow proper regulations. The NFPA maintains fire prevention codes and requirements for all types of occupancies. Explore the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code and the Life Safety Code from NFPA to ensure you have the latest information and are complying.
• Test the range of the alarm: Have someone stand at the farthest point away from the smoke alarms. This will help distinguish if another alarm needs to be installed, especially if the sound is muffled or low.
• Change the batteries: Batteries in a smoke detector should be changed once a year, at the least. Do not wait until your alarms chirp to install fresh batteries. A useful trick to remember is to change your batteries when you change your clocks for daylight savings time.
•  Replace your alarms every 10 years: Replacing your smoke alarms every ten years helps ensure you have the latest technology and the best protection for your family and your home. “Long-life” smoke alarms even need to be replaced. The non-removable batteries in long-life smoke alarms only have a 10-year guarantee.

Checking your smoke detectors regularly is a critical and simple measure you can take to help keep your family and co-workers safe should the unexpected occur.

Water Damage To Your Business

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

In the business industry when a water damage occurs, it can cause a lot of stress for the business owners. Getting back up and running is so important that sometimes mistakes and quicks fixes can happen that can actually cause more damage. Check out these facts to help understand why it's important to call the professionals to handle this damage. 

Water Restoration Facts

• A sheet of drywall standing upright in 1/2" of water can absorb as much as 6 inches in less than 3 hours.
• Water is known as a "universal solvent" because it dissolves more substances than any other liquid.
• Mold typically begins to grow within 24 to 48 hours in an untreated, moist environment. So if water is left untreated, this forms the perfect conditions for mold growth.
• A puddle of water around a water heater indicates a slow leak, or rusted or corroded fittings.  Act quickly as water heaters are under a great deal of water pressure.

Water Contamination Categories in the Restoration Industry

• Category 1 - Water from a clean source that poses no risk of sickness or discomfort such as from an overflowing bathtub or from a broken water supply pipe.
• Category 2 -Water that has a significant degree of chemical, biological and/or physical contamination such as water from a dishwasher or washer, or aquarium leak or discharged Category One water that sits untreated for more than 24 hours becomes a Category Two.
• Category 3 - Water coming from a grossly unsanitary source or carrying disease causing agents such as releases from septic systems and flood waters or discharged Category One water that sits for more than 48 hours becomes Category Three, or discharged Category Two water that sits for more than 24 hours becomes Category Three.

At SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico we use the proper cleaning agents approved by the EPA which include: 

• Sanitizers -reduce the number of microorganisms
• Disinfectants - destroy or inhibit the growth, but not necessarily  the spores.
• Sterilizers - destroy all microorganisms and their spores, such as mold, bacteria, viruses, etc.

Our knowledge of the water mitigation and restoration industry is vital for your business to utilize to take the necessary steps to get your business back up and running as soon as possible. Call us at 804-740-6151 to handle your business's water damages.

Hurricane Season is Approaching

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane Season is almost at its height and this year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting another above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. The season extends from June 1 through November 30, with the end of August and September being the most active for Atlantic hurricanes. Now is the time for communities to come together to help spread awareness that NOW is the time to prepare for heavy winds, rain, and the potential for flooding to your home or business.

According to  FEMA administrator Deanna Criswell, ““Visit Ready.gov and Listo.gov to learn and take the steps to prepare yourself and others in your household. Download the FEMA app to sign-up for a variety of alerts and to access preparedness information. Purchase flood insurance to protect your greatest asset, your home. And, please encourage your neighbors, friends and coworkers to also get ready for the upcoming season.” (source: noaa.gov).

Watch Vs Warning

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Most people don’t think much when a storm rolls through their area. A little bit of wind and rain usually doesn’t cause much harm. However, severe weather events with heavy wind and rain can actually cause a lot more damage than one might think. Flooded basements, fallen trees, and other emergency events will occur in these times of thunderstorms. It’s also smart to prepare whenever a big storm is brewing and knowing the difference between a watch and warning is very important knowledge to have before it’s too late.

Watch:  “A watch is used when the risk of a hazardous weather or hydrologic event has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location or timing is still uncertain. It is intended to provide enough lead time so those who need to set their plans in motion can do so. A watch means that hazardous weather is possible. People should have a plan of action in case a storm threatens and they should listen for later information and possible warnings especially when planning travel or outdoor activities.”

Warning: “A warning is issued when a hazardous weather or hydrologic event is occurring, imminent or likely. A warning means weather conditions pose a threat to life or property. People in the path of the storm need to take protective action.”

When severe storms hit your Richmond area home or business call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico. We are always ready 24/7 for whatever happens and are proud to serve our local communities.

Did You Know: The Drying Process is the Most Important Step in Water Damage

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

When dealing with water damage, it is important to call a water damage restoration company, so that they can help dry out your home as soon as possible. If you decide to do the remediation on your own, you can easily miss water that can go to other parts of your home and further cause more challenges like further damage, higher repair costs, and even health risks. Moist and wet areas are the perfect breeding environment for bacteria and mold.

Restoration Professionals, like SERVPRO, use specialized drying equipment that is industrial grade and very powerful. The drying out process can be tough if you have a bigger house but our highly trained technicians at SERVPRO can assess the damage properly and fix it for you. It is crucial to keep drying equipment running 24 hours a day to ensure the structural integrity of your home is not compromised after a water damage. Do not turn on your household fans, or keep your windows and doors open while the drying equipment is running, without first consulting your restoration professional. The drying equipment used by us is not like your household fan, our equipment is of top quality and doing this will interfere with efforts to dry your home and may prolong restoration. Our team of professionals will closely monitor your home’s moisture and humidity levels inside and will make proper adjustments to ensure that everything will be restored back to its normal condition as soon as possible.

If you’re experiencing water damage in your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804-740-6151.

What Sets SERVPRO Apart from Other Restoration Companies?

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

When choosing a restoration company to tackle the large fire or water loss to your business, it’s important to choose the professionals who will not only get the job done, but who get the job done right.

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico have been in business for over 35 years. What sets our team apart is that at least some of our employees have worked for this company for 10+ years. This has allowed us to continually grow together as a team, making us a stronger unit with combined restoration knowledge and experience.

We are consistently ranked in the top ten of 1,700 national locations and was named Franchise of the Year in 2008, along with being ranked 4th best SERVPRO Franchise in 2015. We have grown to be one of the largest franchises on the East Coast and have developed an excellent reputation with homeowners, insurance companies, business owners, facility managers, local and state government agencies, and commercial property management teams.

Because our team is one of the largest on the East Coast, we will always respond faster to your call with all the necessary tools and manpower to handle any size damage. Compared to other restoration companies in the area, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico will always have enough resources and will never say “no” to a job because of the size.

Not only will you get a quick response, but the quality of work is always top-notch. Our team is fully experienced to properly handle the processes required to make the damage “Like it never even happened.”

Importance of Calling the Water Damage Restoration Professionals

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage is something that all property owners will probably have to deal with at some point in their lives.

Water damage can cost thousands of dollars of damage to your furniture, electronics, upholstery, appliances, and even your plumbing. It can also increase the risk of mold growth if the water damage is not addressed quickly and professionally. This is why it's so important to call a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico to handle this for you. Our experienced and trained technicians have the expert knowledge to repair or replace the water damaged items and to clean up the water damage, leaving you confident that no moisture if left behind for mold to grow.

Our team uses high tech equipment and well documented procedures to control the water damage situation, and will keep in contact with your insurance agency to minimize complicated communication for you the customer. 

If you experience a water damage in your home or business, call the experts at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804-740-6151.

Tips to Handle Water Damage Before Help Arrives

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

If you experience a water damage in your home, our SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico team is there for you at a drop of a hat. We understand the stress and sometimes, panic that is involved in these types of situations, and we will respond 24/7 to help. However, we realize you may not feel comfortable just sitting waiting for our team to arrive, so here are some tips you can do to get the process started:

• Find and shut off the water valve at the source if applicable to the water damage
• Remove and soak up excess or standing water by mopping and laying down towels
• DO NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.
• Prop up and/or remove wet upholstery and cushions and place against walls for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to help stop the water damage from affecting furniture
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting and flooring and place in a dry location
• DO NOT turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
• Collect important papers. Pick up any loose paper items like books, magazines or other colored items on wet surfaces to avoid bleeding.

Although we hope you never have to deal with a water damage emergency, we hope these tips help while you wait for help to arrive. Remember to call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico 24/7 at 804-740-6151.

Summer Fire Safety Tips

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Here are some tips to keep in mind as you and your family enjoy summer vacations, camping, family gatherings, picnics, and the Fourth of July.

•  When camping, always build a campfire at least 25 feet away from tents, shrubs, and anything that can burn.
•  Want to see Fireworks this summer? We recommend you go to a public show put on by experts. Sparklers can reach 1,200 F and can cause third degree burns.
• When using anything with an open flame or can burn, like a fire pit or grills, make sure they are at least 10 feet away from your home.
• Always use propane, charcoal, wood pellet barbecue grills outdoors only. Indoor use can cause a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Place your grill away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. Do not store or use a grill on a porch or balcony.

If you or someone you know experiences a fire in their home or business, contact SERVPRO of Richmond ad SERVPRO of Henrico at 804.740.6151.

Using a Fire Extinguisher in a Commercial Building

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

The most common emergency a business must plan for is a fire, according to OSHA. It is important for all your staff to know how to properly use a fire extinguisher. Although a small fire may be able to be contained with an extinguisher, they can also be used to help protect evacuation routes.

OSHA requires that employees be trained how to use these tools and how to determine when evacuation is the best choice. You can implement a simple training method called PASS with your employees on how to properly operate a fire extinguisher.

PASS stands for: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep

While handling the fire extinguisher, you start by removing the pin. Next, you want to aim the spray nozzle at the base of the fire and then squeeze the trigger on the handle. While squeezing the trigger, start to move the extinguisher in a sweeping motion at the base of the fire.

Some things you need to consider: A small extinguisher’s use is limited. It is a great tool to reduce fire damage and potentially save lives by preventing fires from getting out of control, but fire extinguishers are only effective on small fires. It is important for employees to know when to evacuate. When a fire becomes too large, it is time to evacuate. If the room or office fills with smoke, don’t risk it, evacuate. You need to be able to get within ten to fifteen feet of a fire for a fire extinguisher to be effective. If the heat is too much and prevents you from getting close enough, the safest thing for you to do is follow the office evacuation plan.

Office fires may be more common than you think. It is important that you and your employees know how to safely act in various situations that involve fires. If you experience a fire in your home or business, call us as soon as possible at 804-740-6151. We are available 24/7 to help when needed.

Summer Water Damage Tips

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

When you’ve been in the water damage restoration business for 35 years, there’s not much you haven’t seen. One of those is the all too common, coming home to a flooded home after a long vacation. A lot of people may think this sort of thing doesn’t really happen, and the worst part is that they definitely don’t prepare ahead of time as a potential issue.

Our SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico team wants you to prepare your home this summer to avoid water damage disasters. Check out this list of steps you can take:

• Clean your gutters - build up of gunk, leaf debris and other items could cause water to build up on your roof and eventually leak into your home.
• Direct downspouts away from the house - if not properly directed downhill or away from the foundation, rain water could collect and intrude into the basements or crawl space causing major issues
• Watch your water bill - if you notice a sudden increase in your bill, this could be a result of a leaking pipe
• Test your Sump Pump once a year - this is another major issue that we see all the time in this business. Make sure your sump pump is running properly to avoid flooded basements and backups
• Shut off the water for long vacations - it’s important to first know exactly where your water shut off is located in case of an emergency. If away from your house for weeks on end, make sure the water is off so there is zero chance of a flooded home.

If you experience water damage in your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804-740-6151.

Things to Know When Burning Candles in Your Home

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

Candles are known for celebrations, relaxation, and even just having an inviting smell in your home. However, a lighted candle is also an open flame, and can be a potential fire hazard if not monitored properly. In fact, an estimated 8,200 home fires are started by candles each year according to the National Fire Protection Association.https://candles.org/fire-safety-candles/  Here are some simple tips to keep in mind so you can continue to burn your candles happily and safely: 

Lighting a candle. Trim the wick at least ¼ inch prior to burning. Always keep wick trimmings and any debris out of the pool of wax. Be knowledgeable of the burn times of the candle you are using, only burn within that time.

Secure the area. Place the candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper, flammable decorations, etc. Avoid drafts, vents, or air currents.

Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets. Do not place lit candles where they can be knocked over by children, pets, or anyone else.

Keep candles 3” apart. When burning multiple candles, be sure to place each candle at least three inches apart from one another. This is to ensure they do not melt one another or create their own drafts.

Do not walk away. Never leave a burning candle unattended or lit while sleeping. Always make sure the candle is completely out and the wick ember is no longer glowing.

Do not touch or move the candle. Never move a candle container when the wax is liquified, wait until it has completely cooled.

Extinguishing a candle. Use a candle snuffer to extinguish a candle. Do not use water to extinguish a candle, this can cause hot wax to splatter and could break a glass container due to temperature changes. Never use a knife or sharp object to remove wax drippings. Extinguish a candle if the flame becomes too high or flickers repeatedly.

If you experience a fire or smoke damage in your home, please call the professionals at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804-740-6151.

Make Sure Your Employees Know to Call SERVPRO!

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Do your personnel and vendors know who to call in the event of a water loss inside your facility?

Janitors, fire control vendors, property maintenance personnel, elevator vendors and many others can potentially cause or be in the beginning presence of a water damage emergency in your building. 

Having everyone who has access to your facility aware of who is your preferred vendor for disaster response is very important. In turn, this will minimize the time needed to address the damage in order to start the drying process immediately to salvage floors, materials and other items. We recommend that your building has a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan in place. The ERP is a mobile app, and a physical binder of all the necessary information needed in case of a fire or water damage in your facility. It is a great tool for after-hours when staffing is light so they can refer to the ERP to know what to do and who to call. The app allows our team to document and take photos and label important things such as points of entry, shut off valves, and drains. The best part about the ERP is that it is FREE!

Call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804-740-6151 and our team will schedule a time to complete the ERP so you can have peace of mind when disaster strikes.

We Perform Storm Cleanup

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico Disaster Recovery Team are experts in storm remediation and reconstruction. This expertise involves flood damage specialists and reconstruction workers to restore your home or building back to its original pre-storm condition. 

These are the Basic Steps After the Storm Hits:

1. Water Extraction
   Flooding and heavy rains that penetrate your building can usually leave a significant amount of standing water. The first thing that has to happen the extraction of any standing water. Technicians use pumps to remove water and specialized machines to suck up the water on many different types of surfaces.
2. Removal of Materials
   Our crews will demo water-damaged drywall and any damp insulation they find. Ceiling tiles or flooring may have to be taken out as well depending on the level of saturation.
3. Drying Process
   The parts of the structure that are salvageable must be dried thoroughly and quickly before buckling and damage occur. If not addressed quickly, any area left wet will leave the perfect conditions for growth to form. Drying out the area quickly and professionally prevents this from happening.
4. Building Restoration
   We are a one-stop-shop. That means our reconstruction crews will put the building back together again after the mitigation teams demos the necessary areas. 

Disaster Recovery Team Bahen has your back after a storm wreaks havoc on your home or business. Give us a call at 804-740-6151.

How to Prevent Water Damage Before it Happens

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in the home is the number 1 insurance claim for homeowners. Preventing these claims could in the end save you a lot of stress, time, and money. Here are some easy tips for preventing water damage to your home.

5 Tips for Preventing Water Damage

1. Check your plumbing - clanky pipes, moisture on the floor or walls, or wet dirt around your home could be signs of plumbing issues or leaks
2. During the colder months, be sure to let your faucets drip to avoid freezing over. Insulate exposed pipes to help keep them from bursting and cover your outdoor hose bibs with an insulated cover.
3. Give your hot water heater regular maintenance and attention to ensure it is functioning properly and is damage-free.
4. Make sure you install a sump pump in your basement to avoid backups and water intrusion to filling u your space. If your home is older, consider installing a backflow system to prevent sewage backup.
5. Pour your bacon and other food greases in a jar and then discard after it hardens. Never pour down the drain or it will harden and clog your pipes.

If you experience water damage in your home, call our team at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico to address your issues quickly and professionally.

Richmond Water Damage Coverage

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage to your home is more common than one might think. According to the Insurance Information Institute, one in 50 homes will file a water damage claim every year. What's covered and what's not can get confusing so we laid out the basics for you:

Water Damage Covered by Insurance:

• Accidental sewer backup or overflow, sump pump failure
• sudden or accidental water discharge such as a pipe burst
• storm-related water damage like wind damage

Water Damage NOT Covered by Insurance:

• gradual damage - normal wear and tear
• lack of maintenance to leaky or old materials
• mold and rotting due to water leaks
• outside sewer or foundation seepage

It's important to file a successful water leak claim by recording the damages, make repairs that are easily fixed or minor enough to handle, and have the damage assessed by a professional.

If you have water damage in your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico. We will work with your insurance company for an efficient and effective restoration and claim process.

Always Here To Help

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

A local medical facility called our SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico crew out for emergency water mitigation services. Water had affected 5 floors of the facility and we responded immediately to address the damage and work up a plan to best handle the situation.

When working in delicate locations like medical facilities, sometimes our team will need to get creative when performing mitigation services. Our team built specialty containments made out of corrugated plastic boards, designed to prevent secondary damage and cross-contamination, while also creating negative pressure chambers. The use of raw wood was also prohibited, as wood is porous and germs can easily adhere to it.

Our SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico team will always work with our clients to ensure we are doing everything we can to meet their specific needs.

Grilling Safety To Avoid Fires

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Warmer weather means everyone starts to fire up their grill and host cookouts in their backyards. However, if you are not taking the proper precautions with grill safety, it can quickly turn into a potentially dangerous situation. Check out these tips for practicing grilling safety precautions, so you have the best outdoor grilling experience.

Do:

• Clean your grill regularly. Grease is a major reason for dangerous flare-ups
• Keep grill 10 feet away from the house. This includes carports, garages, and porches. This applies to both charcoal and gas grills.
• Check for gas leaks. Inspect all the hoses for cracking, holes, abrasions and check the gas tank for dents, punctures, or rust.
• Keep a fire extinguisher within a couple of steps of your grill. Make sure you understand how to use it in case of an accident.
• Keep decorations away from your grill. Decorations like hanging baskets, pillows, and string lights could catch fire if too close to the flames.

Don’t:

• Leave a grill unattended. Focus on grilling and get a friend to help with prep and runs to the kitchen.
• Overload your grill with food. Fatty meats are especially dangerous if fat drips and causes a flare-up.
• Use a small grill indoors. This is a major fire hazard and can release carbon monoxide, the deadly colorless, odorless gas.

If you experience fire damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO fo Henrico at 804-740.6151.

Spring Cleaning Tips from SERVPRO

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Now is the best time to start thinking about spring cleaning for your home! You've probably been cooped up inside for a while now and noticed all the places that dust and clutter build up. It can be overwhelming coming up with a plan, but check out this handy list to help you get started:

General

• vacuum couches and chairs
• change air filters
• wash windows inside/outside
• inspect smoke alarm and fire extinguishers
• clean blinds
• dust ceiling fans and baseboards
• clean out medicine cabinets and organize storage closets

Kitchen

• clean out fridge/freezer - wipe down the inside
• organize Tupperware drawers
• clean out and wipe down inside of cabinets
• vacuum and mop floors

Laundry/Clothing

• bring out spring/summer clothing and pack up winter clothes
• straighten up/organize laundry area and clean lint trap and behind washer/dryer
• purge clothing you no longer wear to donate or give away

Bedrooms

• clean out closets and donate
• put away winter bedding and clothes
• rotate mattress
• wash bedding

Outside

• clean garage/shed
• clean gutters
• clean house siding
• clean patio furniture
• clean porch/deck/patio
• landscaping/mulch
• seal driveway
• wash/inspect light fixtures

If you would like a deeper, more professional cleaning of your home or business, call us at 804-740-6151.

Defense Against Mold in Richmond

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Rain, snow, and ice have been wreaking havoc on Richmond for weeks now. With the increase of precipitation affecting our area, there are heightened chances for moisture to breach your home or business. Old or damaged roofs, basements and poorly sealed windows and doors present perfect conditions for the possibility of water damage, and in turn mold growth to form.

Prompt  mitigation is vital to avoid mold growth, which can be visible in as little as 24 to 48 hours under the right conditions.

Follow these tips to limit the chances for mold to form:

• keep the humidity between 30-60%
• provide proper drainage away from building foundations
• regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks
• keep gutters and drains clear or debris
• inspect roof, windows, and other areas where water might enter the building
• take swift action on all water intrusions immediately
• contact your SERVPRO of Richmond professionals for assistance after a water damage or if you discover mold.

RVA Mold Removal

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

The Truth is, It's Everywhere

Let’s face it, mold is everywhere. It can be found indoors and outdoors. It can enter your home or business through windows, vents and HVAC systems. Mold from outdoors can attach to clothing, shoes, pets and can be carried indoors. It grows anywhere, especially where there is moisture. And the worst part is, it can cause a variety of health effects. Children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems are more likely to suffer the effects mold can have.

Mold’s Best Friend:

Water. Any home or business can quickly become infested with mold with the introduction of a water source, like a roof or plumbing leak. Mold can spread throughout a property in as little as 48-72 hours

Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic, 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 that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

“Mold Removal” vs. Remediation

Because mold is everywhere, removing all mold from your home or business is impossible. A qualified restoration company understand the science behind mold and mold growth and knows how to remediate the problem area. So what do you do when you find mold growth in your home or business?

• Step 1: Contact SERVPRO of Richmond 804.740.6151
• Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
• Step 3: Mold Containment
• Step 4: Air Filtration
• Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
• Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings
• Step 7: Restoration

Thanksgiving Cooking Safety

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and injuries. We want you and your family to celebrate safely this year so keep these tips in mind while cooking in this kitchen this holiday:

• Never leave the kitchen while cooking on the stovetop. Some types of cooking, especially those that involve frying or sautéing with oil, need continuous attention.
• When cooking a turkey, or other items in the oven, stay in your home and check on it regularly.
• Set a timer on your stove or phone to keep track of cooking times, particularly for foods that require longer cook times.
• Keep things that can catch fire like oven mitts, wooden utensils, food wrappers, and towels away from direct contact with the cooking area.
• Avoid long sleeves and hanging fabrics that could come in contact with a heat source.
• Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time. Never throw water or use a fire extinguisher on a grease fire.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. Only open the door once you’re confident the fire is completely out, standing to the side as you do. If you have any doubts or concerns, contact the fire department for assistance.
• Keep children at least three feet away from the stove and areas where hot food or drink is being prepared or served. Steam or spills from these items can cause severe burns.

Although the Covid-19 pandemic will limit the number of people in your home this year, it's still important to be mindful and careful when cooking inside your home.

Warehouse Manager Explains Why He Works at SERVPRO

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Looking for your next career? Check out what our employees have to say:

“I started working at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico in October 2014 as a Warehouse Technician, and my job was primarily cleaning the equipment that came back from jobs. I slowly expanded my responsibilities and role within the company until finally becoming the Warehouse Manager. Since then, the warehouse has grown from a one-man operation to a team that’s had up to 10 employees. It was a perfect progression because I was able to start by learning the nuts and bolts of the business, to then slowly learning broader skills, such as understanding job flow, supply chain management, and, most importantly, employee management.

I love the size of the company. Prior to SERVPRO, I worked for a corporation with 17,000 employees and when you’re one of 17,000, it feels as if almost nothing you do matters. It can be difficult to buy into the culture if you don't feel that you are part of something bigger. At SERVPRO, I found a company that fits me perfectly. It doesn’t feel like just a job, but more like a community you can dive into and grow with personally, while seeing that no one’s work ever goes unnoticed. You feel like you’re not only a part of something important, but that you’re an important part of it. The day-to-day is frequently exciting, often stressful and always interesting. Simply put, work gets done here. If you are hardworking and ambitious, there’s no end to where you and the company can go. That is, if your definition of 'hard work' is the same as ours.” – Brian Genest

If you are interested in joining the SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico Team, please email careers@SERVPROctn.com.

Commercial Sales Representative Explains Why She Loves Working at SERVPRO

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

Looking for your next career? Check out what our employees have to say:

"I started working for SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico in October 2016 after spending most of my career working for only two other privately owned businesses. I like the “dedicated family” style that comes with privately owned businesses. I have found that they tend to work hard and play hard. SERVPRO did not disappoint. The position that I applied for was Sales and Marketing Representative – Commercial Accounts. I had no sales background, but a strong desire to transition into sales. The Sales Manager who interviewed me introduced me to co-owner, Theresa Bahen. I shared my desire to find a long term place where I could spend the remainder of my career, working hard and working with a great team. In the nearly 3 ½ years that I’ve been here, my client base and sales have shown immense growth.

At SERVPRO, there are educational opportunities to strengthen your position and knowledge in this industry. Within 2 years, I obtained my IICRC – Water Restoration certification. I’ve gained industry knowledge through shadowing Project Managers, studying the company’s Corporate website, and soaking in the knowledge and assistance from Team Leaders and staff whenever I have questions. No one is ever too busy to help when needed. The most rewarding part of my job is when clients call us for work and we are able to help them put their business back “Like it never even happened.” I regularly hear from clients who have had great success stories to tell about their personal and business dealings with SERVPRO. It makes me proud to represent a brand that is so well known and respected in the restoration industry.

It became very clear to me, early on, that the owners of this business truly appreciate and take care of their valued employees. They put safety first and we operate as one team. If you are looking for longtime employment with great benefits and are willing to work hard, you’ll enjoy many opportunities to play hard too! Come on over and join the team!" - Karen Clifton

If you are interested in joining the SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico team, please email careers@SERVPROctn.com.

Alexis Explains Why She Loves Working at SERVPRO

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

"I started working at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico when I was 19 years old in March of 2013. Starting as the back-up receptionist, I have also been trained in Dispatch as well as a Job File Coordinator, and now my current position of a Lead Job File Coordinator. I have learned how to multitask efficiently, how to be flexible when dealing with different circumstances, and how to assist newer JFCs with tasks.

I enjoy working with multiple project managers and assisting our customers with getting their homes or businesses back to “Like it never even happened.” The work environment at SERVPRO is very family-oriented. I can absolutely say my coworkers are some of the best people I’ve ever met! If you love helping others in a time of need or if you want to feel appreciated and like a valuable member of a team, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is the place for you!" - Alexis Coddington.

Fire Prevention Week 2020

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

Every year the National Fire Protection Agency recognizes Fire Prevention Week to inform and teach children, adults, and teachers how to stay safe in case of a fire.

This year's theme is: Serve Up Fire Safety In The Kitchen. According to the NFPA, cooking in the kitchen is the #1 cause of home fires and home fire injuries. They have also concluded that unattended cooking is the leading cause of fires in the kitchen.

Check out some quick tips to prevent a fire disaster:

• keep kids safe from burns and scalds by creating a kid-free zone of at least 3ft around hot things in the kitchen.
• keep your cooking area clutter-free. Move anything that can burn away from the stove top
• focus on the food. unattended cooking is the leading cause of kitchen fires
• be smart when cooking, use a timers to remind you that you are cooking
• clubbing and cooking don't mix, after a night out, order in!
• put a lid on it to extinguish a small grease fire

National Preparedness Thunderstorm Safety

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month and SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico wants you to be aware and prepared for severe thunderstorms. A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down tree and utility poles - causing widespread power outages.

WATCH vs. WARNING - Know the difference

Watch: Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area

Warning: Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property.

Be Prepared

• Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms
• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm This should be away from windows, skylights and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail
• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm
• Make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches
• Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home

Make Preparedness Kit

• Water—one gallon per person, per day
• Food—non-perishable, easy-to-prepare
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation & personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family & emergency contact information
• Extra cash

Final Step

Call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804.740.6151 if your home or business experiences damages from a storm. We have the resources to handle any size disaster.

Information provided by The American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/thunderstorm.html

Call SERVPRO for Biohazard Cleanup

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Unfortunate situations such as crime scene or trauma scene cleanup should not be handled by just anyone. Biohazardous materials require careful and experienced technicians to clean and dispose of items the proper and safe way.

During this emotional period for the customer who may have experienced the biohazard scene, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico's professionals have been through extensive training on how to properly interact with the customer. Our cleaning professionals work with the family or customer carefully and perform professional cleaning and restoration services to get the job done quickly and efficiently, reducing the burden of the customer. 

Our SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico staff is trained in all aspects of property damage and the IICRC industry certifications and are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property efficiently and professionally.

Team Leader, Joey Waters Discusses Why He Loves Working at SERVPRO

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

“I started working at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico in October of 2003. I came from a construction background so the knowledge I brought with me helped me excel with our day-to-day operations. I moved up to the Crew Chief position pretty quickly and was running crews for several years before moving into the Project Manager position. I was a Project Manager for roughly 5-6 years before I advanced to the role of Team Leader, which is the position I hold today. I really enjoy working and continually growing alongside my coworkers. Everyone gets along well and works together as a team. The work environment is great and I enjoy the daily laughs and getting along with everyone. It’s amazing how all of the different personalities can come together as one to accomplish anything we want. We, as a team, have really helped this company grow into what we are today. If you’re thinking about joining our team, take the chance to learn about the business and the work that we do. You will see all the different aspects of the job and how every day is never the same. You get to meet new people every day and take satisfaction in knowing we are truly helping people in a time of need and making it “Like it never even happened.” - Joey Waters, Team Leader

How Hurricane Isabel Brought Project Manager, Justin Ballas to the SERVPRO Team

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

"In 2003, Hurricane Isabel touched down in my dad’s neighborhood, causing a huge tree to fall on his house that completely destroyed the second and first floor with water damage. SERVPRO was the restoration company hired for the cleanup on my dad’s house. During this time, I observed the cleanup and all the aspects of what needed to be done. It looked interesting and something that I might enjoy doing one day as an actual job. A few years after that, I decided to give it a try and filled out an application. In October 2007, Robert Morgan, General Manager, interviewed me then hired me on the spot. I started as a Production Technician, knowing absolutely nothing about water damage, fire damage, mold remediation, etc. As I began working with the Crew Chiefs I was assigned to each day, I definitely knew this was something I wanted to do for the long haul. After a few years, I was promoted to Crew Chief where I worked long and hard hours. Management quickly noticed my work ethic and how I took each task full-on. With years of continuous growth, I am now a Project Manager, where I have been now for about 6 years.

The 12 years I have been employed with SERVPRO have been an absolute blessing. I’ve gained knowledge of the industry to perform my duties successfully with the friends (co-workers) I have come to know and grow with together. What I like the most about working for this company is that I get to help customers in a time of need where they may be in a state of panic because of the damage they are experiencing in their home or business. The work environment here at SERVPRO is what I’d consider a family setting, because there are many employees that have been here for a long time and everyone gets along with each other. This is also a fast-paced, sometimes long hours line of work, which comes with a sense of satisfaction when you get to help your community. On large jobs, where it calls for multiple technicians to be dispatched, we all buckle down and dive right in, working diligently to get the job completed fast and efficiently.

If you are in search of a company to grow with, build a career with, and feel appreciated on a daily basis, then come join this awesome company at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico and become a successful asset to #TeamBahen.” – Justin Ballas

We Handle Large Water Damages

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Richmond, Virginia is full of old, historical buildings that have been around for a very long time. Eventually these old buildings will have issues such as pipes bursting or electrical issues that cause fire damages. 

Unfortunately, a building in downtown Richmond experienced one of these situations. This commercial building experienced a massive water damage affecting 60,000 square feet after a main water pipe burst.

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico was called to action and our team responded immediately with all the necessary tools to get the water out and to begin the drying process. Steps were taken right away to mitigate the situation and begin mapping a plan for  cleaning up and restoring this old building.

It's important to call the professionals that have 35 years of experience handling the water damage restoration process. If your business experiences a water damage, no matter how big or small, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico will be the ones to call!

Board Up Services After a Fire

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico Provides Board Up Services.

In the unfortunate event of a fire in your home or business, our team will respond 24/7 with emergency services to board up and secure your windows and roof following a damage.

It's important to act right away and call the professionals to handle your board up to prevent further damage from the elements, such as wind or rain. Not only do you want to act quickly to prevent further damage, but you also need to keep your insurance in mind. If you fail to properly board up your home, your insurer may not cover the fire damage citing delayed response to secure the home.

Always call the professionals to handle your board up needs. We will use the proper materials and tools to safely and correctly secure the windows and roof from further damage.

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is always here to help board up your home after a fire damage and will also help remediate and restore the damages inside the home. Call today at 804-740-6151.

Hurricane Plan for Your Business

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 40% of business won't reopen after a natural disaster, one year later 25% small businesses will close, and three years after the disaster 75% of businesses without a continuity plan will fail.

Why is it Important to Plan for a Hurricane?

"If your organization is vulnerable to hurricanes, it is important that you understand your risk, develop a preparedness and mitigation plan, and take action. Doing so will not only increase the safety of employees and customers, but it will help you remain in business after disasters, such as tropical storms and hurricanes, strike." - (FEMA)

Make sure you follow the Step-by-step Process:

• Identify Your Risk - determine the specific areas your organization needs to address to prepare, mitigate risk, and return to operation following a disaster.
• Develop a Plan - staff, surroundings, space, systems, structure and service
• Take Action - perform, preparedness and mitigation activities with everyone in the building
• Be Recognized and Inspire Others - complete the FEMA Ready Business application

Emergency Ready Profile for Your Business

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a free assessment of your commercial facility. It is designed to give you all the information you need in an event of an emergency. Our SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico Marketing Representatives will come to your facility and record the details and information on their iPads such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. It will also identify the line of command for authorizing work to begin as well as establishing who to call in case of an emergency. Our marketing representative will take pictures of all exits, stairwells, elevators, electrical room, alarm location, water and gas shut off locations and many other detailed information.

The ERP can be accessed through the free mobile app that can be downloaded from the app store. We will also print out a copy of the ERP, if requested, so you always have a hard copy in reach at your office. This service that we provide our clients is has proven to be very help in a fire or water disaster.

Call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico today to inquire about an Emergency Ready Profile for your facility! This free assessment of your building will help save you time in an event of a disaster and established our team as your fire and water mitigation and reconstruction provider!

Improve The Air Quality in Your Building

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

When was the last time your business had the duct system cleaned? Has your business ever had it cleaned? These are important questions to ask when considering the air quality inside your building.

According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) it is recommended that air duct cleaning happens every 3 to 5 years.

Why is This Important?

Simply put, your HVAC system will get dirty over time and will collect dust and contaminants that could spread throughout your business.

What Are The Benefits?

• Energy Savings - when cleaned, the system doesn't have to work harder to maintain the temperature you set, which will save energy and money
• Air Quality Improves - air pollutants, dust, dander, and other contaminants are collected by the occupants of the buildings and are pulled into the HVAC system, which will circulate these particles throughout the day

Call the SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico, NADCA Certified professionals to clean your company's HVAC system today!

Grilling Safety This Summer

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

It's the time of year when families spend their summer evening preparing dinner on the grill. This great American past time brings great memories and delicious meals, however, it can also produce some serious concerns for the safety of your family and your home.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, In 2014-2018, fire departments went to an annual average of 8,900 home fires involving grills or barbecues. This included 3,900 structure fires and 4,900 outside or unclassified fires.

Follow these tips to ensure you are grilling safely:

• keep the grill in a location away from the home and out from under trees and structural coverings
• always clean your grill before and after use to remove grease and grime build up
• make sure children and pets play at a 3 foot distance from the grill to avoid accidents
• always open the grill's lid before lighting it
• never leave the grill alone for an extended period of time

If you experience a damage from a grilling accident, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico to help restore and remediate the damage.

Commercial Flooding

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

It is always important to be knowledgeable and prepared for the potential threat of flooding to your business. Floods are one of the most common natural disasters in the nation and it doesn't matter if you live close to a coastline or not. Water, with enough power and quantity, will find a way into your structure.

On average, commercial flood claims average around $75,000 and 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Programs were from low-risk communities. The bottom line is that floods are inevitable, anywhere.

If your business is affected by a flood, contact SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico for a quick response and a professional clean up and restoration at 804.740.6151. Our crews are prepared and trained to handle any size disaster and the sooner we're called, the sooner we can get your business back up and running again.

Power Outage Toolkit

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have a power outage tool kit at home? If not, please consider creating one! During these summer months, thunderstorms are more prevalent, which means more homeworkers and renters experience power outages. Sometimes these outages can last for a few hours or a few days. In either case, it is important to have a tool kit so you are prepared. Below are some suggested items to keep in an easy to access location your home:

• utilize a large plastic bin to store your items- such as a tupperware.
• at least 10 bottled waters
• consider buying a portable cell phone charger so you
• flashlights and batteries
• rechargeable lantern or battery operated lanterns
• some canned foods and non-perishable food items like peanut butter, canned fruit
• can opener
• first aid kit with prescriptions, contact lenses, etc.
• portable battery operated fan
• a deck of cards for entertainment!

Importance of Sump Pumps

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a sump pump, most the time you don't realize how important it is until it stops working. Your sump pump is out of sight, out of mind and will almost always have negative consequences. Power outages, failure and a older sump pump that cannot handle the capacity are all common problems that can occur as well.

Avoid potential problems by doing routine inspections or replacing your old sump pump. Usually sump pumps should be replaced every 5 years or according to manufacturers guidelines. Each year the sump, switch and float should be inspected as well. Pay attention to how often the sump pump is running and if it runs regularly or there is a higher water table, consider a sump pump with higher horsepower.  

Another way to increase the pump's efficiency and prolong life is to clean your sump pit, remove any dirt, sand, gravel and other debris routinely. Ensure that the discharge line opening is free of obstructions so that water can be pumped through the line and out of your basement or crawlspace and also be aware in the winter the discharge line may freeze bringing the water back into your house.

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico (804)-740-6151

Wading Through Richmond Water Damage

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Richmond can have a major impact on properties of all kinds, occurring very swiftly and often suddenly. It can occur due to a variety of conditions that include flooding, melting snow, failed appliances, or other natural disasters. Water damage can also range widely in severity. Allowing water to build up in basements and other areas of a home or business can quickly lead to complete destruction of the property. When water damage is imminent, property owners must take immediate steps to remove the water and restore any materials that have been damaged.

Water Damage can be broken down into several categories of severity, typically coming from a particular source. The first category for water damage includes the presence of clean water that poses no immediate threat to humans. Malfunctioning appliances and overflowing sinks usually cause this kind of damage. The next category of damage is often referred to as Grey Water. Category two indicates the presence of contaminated water that can cause illness to living creatures when ingested. The presence of microorganisms in water is typically the result of sewer leaks, damaged toilets, and malfunctioning sump pumps. The third category of water damage is referred to as Black Water. These unsanitary liquids contain bacteria and other forms of seriously dangerous microorganisms. This water can come from the contamination of standing water and leaks from municipal sewage systems.

All types of damage can lead to degrading property, including threats such as mold, rotting wood, and the destabilization of the foundation. Damage in classes two and three can allow furniture and walls to absorb a substantial amount of moisture despite the fact that the evaporation rate is very rapid. The most serious type of water damage can result from standing water that has the potential to soak into hardwood floors, concrete, and plaster. The restoration process and the success in cleaning up after water damage has occurred depend on acting quickly. 

The majority of cleanups following substantial water damage require professional assistance. Ignoring damp furniture and missing hidden damage in walls and other structural components can result in serious health threats. The mold exposure alone can cause allergy and asthma symptoms in persons of all ages or directly impact those people suffering with compromised immune systems. Professional restoration companies accurately assess the damage and use proven techniques in order to fully restore the property. Their techniques include thoroughly protective cleaning gear and cutting-edge, restoration equipment.

If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call today!

Call us at 24/7 at (804) 740-6151

Richmond Water Damage

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Most of the homeowners living in Richmond who call a water damage restoration company are doing so for the first time. In many cases, these individuals are concerned about who will be assisting them and exactly how they will resolve the excessive water issue. Ultimately, most homeowners just want to ensure that the water damage restoration process will be completed professionally and ethically. Additionally, they want to ensure a rapid return home after a case of massive water damage. If you find yourself in need of water damage mitigation services and want to ensure that you'll obtain high-quality assistance, the company to call is SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico.

24/7 Emergency Services are available because water damage can strike at any time. Luckily, the professionals of SERVPRO of Richmond are pleased to offer 24/7 emergency services that enable you to actuate immediate assistance when disaster strikes. This service is important because the sooner the standing water is eliminated, the less susceptible you'll be to health hazards and secondary water damage. Immediate removal of pooling water is imperative.

Exceptional Equipment For Water Extraction and Drying Services are in the arsenal of the professionals from SERVPRO. Our industry experts are highly skilled in using specialized equipment like wet vacuums and water pumps to remove excess water with speed. They can also use moisture meters and hygrometers to detect any areas of the home where hidden pockets of water or moisture may be isolated. Additionally, the company's restoration experts will use specialized recovery techniques to dry important photographs and documents. Irreplaceable personal remembrances are treated with the utmost urgency and care.

Restoration Services, rather than replacement of damaged furnishings and building materials, can lessen your time away from your home in Richmond and also cut your expenses. These services include the removal of water-saturated materials such as upholstery and carpeting. Additionally, damaged ceiling tiles, soaked drywall, and wet insulation will be dismantled and tossed. Any valuable items that have come in contact with water are dried according to IICRC protocols on location and if necessary moved to our facilities for cleaning.

When your property in Richmond has been impacted by water damage, there's no time to waste. With more than 30 years of industrial experience in this dynamic field, our SERVPRO trained IICRC technicians are effective in utilizing the detail-oriented approach that gets you back home "Like it never even happened."

We live and work in Richmond too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is close by and ready to respond to your water or flood damage emergency. We are faster to any size disaster. Call us for help. (804) 740-6151

Always Hire Water Damage Restoration Professionals

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

Even if you think you can handle your water damage on your own, it's always better to call in the professionals. Not all water damage is created equal and it takes the right knowledge, tools and experience to make sure the cleanup and restoration is done right the first time.

Here are some reasons why you should always call the professionals at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico to handle your water damage:

• Your Health and Safety - if the water damage is from a flood or outside rain water coming into your home, that water is filled with bacteria, chemicals or other toxic materials that can affect you and your family's health. The specialists have the right knowledge and tools to safely remove the water without being exposed to those harmful toxins. 
• The Proper Tools - you may think that opening windows, soaking up water with towels and cleaning with bleach will help, however, you're only wasting valuable time. Plus, you're still not treating the wood floors that may buckle or expand. The professionals have water extractors, air-movers, and dehumidifiers that soaks up and evaporates the water quickly and efficiently.
• Efficient and Fast Work - water damage can be extremely detrimental to your home's structure and floors. The water must be removed quickly, electrical systems need to be inspected, and walls and floors need to be treated. Our crews will respond quickly, with certified technicians and complete the work with the proper knowledge and procedures to potentially save your floors and home within hours.

A Higher Level of Cleaning

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

The coronavirus pandemic has ushered in a new perspective as we all strive to get back to work, get back out, and get back to business. As we move toward this new normal, it’s hard to know just what your customers expect, and what you need to do as a business owner to make them feel comfortable about visiting your storefront again.

To find out more about what both consumers and employees are feeling as they fall back into their normal routines, SERVPRO^® commissioned a survey to learn more about how consumer attitudes and expectations of cleanliness in regards to COVID-19 are affecting their decisions.

A new era of clean

The results confirmed that we’re entering into a new era of expectation of cleanliness for businesses. More than 80 percent of respondents said businesses need to be more aggressive now than before COVID-19 when it comes to cleaning. The cleaning protocols in place before COVID-19 hit will not be sufficient in today’s environment. In fact, a full 71 percent have higher cleanliness expectations for businesses than in their own homes.

Individuals continue to be nervous when going out, with nearly 70 percent saying they’re thinking about avoiding COVID-19 exposure constantly when they’re out in public. This statistic gives unique insight into consumers’ awareness level about the potential dangers that may exist when they go out, and their intense desire to avoid them. As business owners, putting proper cleaning and disinfection measures in place, and communicating that you’ve done so, is necessary to help inspire confidence that will help consumers become more willing to visit.

Beyond that, 76 percent of survey respondents said the way a business addresses cleanliness during COVID-19 is a good indicator of how well that business is run in general. So, it’s important to note that consumers are paying attention. They’re taking into account the level you’re going to in order to protect them now, and they’ll remember that in the future.

The level of clean, matters

There’s no shortage of anxiety when it comes to coronavirus, and nearly 60 percent reported they’re specifically worried about catching COVID-19 from touching surfaces or objects that haven’t been cleaned sufficiently. And the person doing the cleaning, makes a difference in the minds of consumers.

When all else is equal (product, price, service, convenience), 64 percent said they are more likely to shop at a business with a decal indicating professional cleaning, versus a store without such a decal.

So, how do you set yourself apart and inspire confidence with your customers now?

Certified cleaning program

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

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

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

Get a free quote by calling SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804-740-6151.

*Proprietary study prepared by Message Factors, Inc. Results are based on experiences and perceptions of 1,000 consumers surveyed May 2020.

Soot and Smoke Damage

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

We Can Clean Your Soot Covered Contents

Soot from a fire damage can have a big impact on walls, appliances, and furniture. Be sure to have your belongings cleaned as soon as possible to limit the potential damage soot can leave behind.  SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico takes the time and diligence necessary to make sure everything is cleaned properly leaving no residue behind to stain. We understand how important it is to save a customer's personal items and return them back looking better than ever. That's why we invest in the best technology in the restoration industry to do just that!

Our new ultrasonic content cleaning system is designed to carefully and thoroughly clean items affected from smoke and soot damage. Everything is transported in carrying baskets to cut back on human errors.

Water Ceiling Stains? What to Know

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Here’s What You Should Know About Your Ceiling Water Stain.

Have you ever glanced up to the ceiling in your home and see a yellow ring? This is a visible mark of water damage in your home, which can lead to the growth of mold or mildew. Water stains should instead be repaired immediately in order to avoid further damage to ceilings. But before breaking out any tools, determining the cause of your stain can help decide the best course of action.

Common Causes

Several different scenarios can result in ceiling water stains. The first of which is clogged gutters. Full or clogged gutters are the likely culprit if you’ve experienced heavy or persistent rain. The second scenario is leaky pipes. Leaky pipes could run from a bathroom, air conditioner, refrigerator, or dishwasher if one is located in the room above the stained ceiling. Another common source is a caulking issue. If the caulking that surrounds your bathtub or shower deteriorates, water can leak down into the ceiling below.

Call the Professionals

Verifying the source of a leak can sometimes involve drilling holes in the ceiling in order to search for the source, which may be uncomfortable for some homeowners. A professional can get the job done in a fast, efficient, and cost-effective manner, as most homeowners are not equipped with the knowledge or skills necessary in order to repair a leak.

If you notice a water stain on the ceiling of your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico to efficiently solve the issue.

Are you Hiring an IICRC Certified Company?

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

According to IICRC.org, the IICRC is the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, a non-profit organization for the Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Industries. The mission of the IICRC is to establish and advance globally recognized standards and certifications for the inspection, cleaning, restoration and installation industries.

Why is it Important to Hire an IICRC Certified Firm?

With an IICRC certified firm you have the peace in mind that the correct guidelines are being followed to restore your property.  In the commercial world health and safety concerns are of upmost importance.  As an IICRC Certified Firm, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico follows the proper guidelines to restore your property to its preloss condition while at the same time providing you with the best practices and standards.

Along with being an IICRC Certified Firm, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico has individually IICRC certified technicians that are background checked and uniformed.  Why is this important? As a business owner or property manager this provides additional peace of mind that not only is your property going to be properly restored, but that your employees, tenants and contents will be safe.

Next time disaster strikes on your property, give the IICRC certified professionals of SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico a call at 804-740-6151.

Develop an Emergency Plan for your Business

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

As a business owner in Richmond or Henrico you are responsible for what goes on in your building. This includes how well-equipped you and your employees are to respond to an emergency situation. It is important to create a contingency plan for responding to any type of emergency that may affect your building and the people inside it.

Things to Consider

A good emergency action plan has several components:

• Acknowledges the types of emergencies that may occur
• Safe space location and evacuation plan
• Key personnel and the specific tasks they perform and are responsible for
• Contact information for employees
• Contact information for emergency response team and damage mitigation experts
• Medical assistance procedures
  
  

Having a solid plan can ensure that nothing important is overlooked when disaster strikes.

Plan Practice

Your evacuation plan can look great on paper and still fail if you do not walk employees through its steps on a regular basis. To ensure the successful implementation of your emergency protocols, start by training all employees so they can learn the details of the process and the part they play in it. Host surprise drills in which everyone gets to practice evacuating the building or proceeding to the designated protective areas safely. The more you talk about and run through your plan, the calmer employees are likely to be if an emergency does happen.

If you have a fire emergency in your building, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804-740-6151.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

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

Let us help you get back to business

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

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

Extensive training and specialized products

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

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

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

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

Call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico today at 804-740-6151 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

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

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

Hurricane Preparedness

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

This Hurricane Preparedness Week, call your insurance company or agent and ask for an insurance checkup to make sure you have enough homeowners insurance to repair or even replace your home. Standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, you’ll need a separate policy for flooding. Act now as flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period.

Be Prepared

Just having enough supplies to make it through a hurricane isn’t enough. You need plenty to make it through what could be a LONG recovery period too. Water and electricity could be out for a week or more. Have enough non-perishable food, water and medicine to last each person in your family for a MINIMUM of one week. Also make sure you have extra cash, a battery-powered radio, flashlights, and a portable crank or solar powered USB charger to charge your cell phone.

The CDC recommends if you need to go to a public shelter, bring at least two cloth face coverings for each person and, if possible, hand sanitizer. (Children under two years old and people having trouble breathing should not wear face coverings). ready.gov/kit

24/7 Emergency Service

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

Who Will You Call?

It's 2 o'clock in the morning and there is water shooting in every direction from a burst pipe in your basement. The water is rising fast, and you think to yourself no one is going to help me at this time of night. While disasters do not work a 9-5, neither does SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico. Our team is always on disaster time 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our trained specialists are equipped and prepared to spring into action moments after the call comes in. Not only do we respond in a quick and timely matter, but the job is done properly, efficiently and professionally. Other companies may leave you waiting until the morning which is going to cause more damage on your property, and your wallet.

No matter the time or circumstance don't panic, call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico to take care of all your restoration needs at (804)-740-6151.

Water Damage, Act Fast!

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

We Can Provide Mitigation & Reconstruction

When your home or business suffers water damage it’s important to start the mitigation process as soon as possible. The longer moisture sits in walls and flooring, the more damage the structure of your home will suffer. It’s important to call the professionals at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico to handle your water damage quickly and efficiently.

In some cases if water damage is not addressed quickly, it leads to mold growth. Mold thrives where water and moisture is present. Moist and humid surfaces are the perfect breeding ground for mold growth.

When the mitigation process is complete you are left with a partially constructed home or business. No worries! SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico can provide mitigation reconstruction. Once all moisture is eliminated from the structure and the non-salvageable walls and flooring are removed, reconstruction can begin.

Rather than having multiple contractors in your home or business, have our team come in and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Hurricane Season 2020

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

How to Prepare for a Hurricane.

This 2020 Hurricane season is estimated to be more active than previous years. It's important to know what to do before it hits to help prevent damage or loss to your property.

List of Supplies

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

How to Prepare Your Home

• Cover your windows with storm shutter or plywood, or use tape the glass so the broken shards stay together
• Learn if you are in an area that floods, and how to properly sand bag your home
• Clean out your rain gutters

If you’ve already experienced flooding or storm damage, don’t hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804.740.61.51.

Richmond Sewage Cleanup

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

When your Richmond business experiences damage from a flooded toilet or sewer backup, the sewer cleanup process needs to be addressed by professionals and not handled by yourself. You need to make sure to call in the professionals at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico. Our specialists can dry the area, clean it, and test it to ensure that all harmful microbes and bacteria are gone. Here is what the process might look like:

1. Identifying and Repairing Source of Problem

Once the flooded toilet has been unclogged or the lines cleared, sewer cleanup can begin.

2. Removing Water and Sewage

The bulk of the water must be removed and extracted before anything can be cleaned. Professionals use the proper equipment to remove the water and dispose of it properly.

3. Identifying Salvageable vs. Contaminated Items

Before discarding any items, make sure you take photos to prove the loss to the insurance adjuster who decides how much your policy covers. After most of the contaminated water is gone, individual items are evaluated. Some may be able to be cleaned and saved, but others will have to be bagged and thrown away properly.

4. Drying and Cleaning 

Next, our Production Technicians will finish drying out the affected areas with water extraction equipment. They may have to remove parts of the wall or any insulation that was affected by the contaminated water and replace it with clean drywall. Anything that remains must be disinfected with chemicals that have been specially formulated to combat the contaminants in the sewage.

5. Testing

The final step is vital for making sure that the effort from previous steps was effective. Technicians test for contaminants and hopefully declare your building safe.

Water Damage Tips and Tricks

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico would like to share some tips of what you can do if you experience a water damage and are waiting for the professionals to show up and restore your home back to normal.

• Shut off the water source if applicable
• Remove excess water by mopping and laying down towels
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to help lessen water damage
• Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• DO NOT use a regular vacuum to remove water.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpeting.

Please call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804.740.6151 to handle the water damage and mitigation process.

Always Be Prepared for a Storm

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

After a large storm hits in your neighbor you need food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. Depending on the nature of the disaster, road conditions may prevent help from arriving in a timely manner and you may be without electricity and the capability to travel.

Your basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment, and telephones may be cut off for days or even weeks. Making sure your prepare a supply kit that contains items that will keep you afloat is paramount.

Everyone is your household should be aware of your supply/emergency kit, where it is located, and what is inside. Hre are some items that are suggested to keep on hand:

• Necessary Medications
• Flashlights for each family member
• Battery-operated radio and clock
• Extra batteries
• Bottled water
• Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants, pet food
• Non-electric can opener
• List of important phone numbers
• First-aid kit

Even if you don't think a storm could affect you this bad, it's always recommend to be prepared just in case. If there is damage to your home, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico will always be here to help!

What To Do if There's a Fire in Your Home

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Do you know what to do if there is a fire in your house? Check out these steps to ensure you are prepared if a fire erupts in your home:

• Fight the fire or flee?
  • Don't attempt to extinguish any fire if there is a threat to your safety. If the fire is small and you know how to use a fire extinguisher, you can attempt to extinguish the fire. You must note that fires can increase in size and intensity in seconds, blocking the exit path can create a dangerous atmosphere. 
• The main priority is to get you and your family members out safely. 
  • Your priority should be to get yourself and your family members out as quickly as possible. Please don't think of picking up your valuables. Timing is very important. 
• If you see smoke, crawl to the nearest exit!
  • The toxic gases and the super heated air in the smoke makes it more dangerous. Smoke is lighter than air and so it rises above air.

If you experience a fire in your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804.740.6151.

We Are Cleaning Experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need!

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804.740.6151

We Can Handle Biohazard Clean Up

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

Common Biohazard Encounters

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

Bloodborne Pathogens – We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Our trained SERVPRO professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

Crime Scene Residues – From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Arson and Vandalism – From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, our SERVPRO professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Moldy Soft Goods Cleaning

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

When you have a water damage in your home, typically the floors, walls and ceilings are affected. Not only does SERVPRO take care of the water damaged structure, but we also clean the affected contents in the home as well. Whether it is clothes, stuffed animals, shoes, purses, etc., SERVPRO carefully packs up the contents and brings them back to our facility to be cleaned.

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico County has state-of-the-art Esporta cleaning system on-site that can make water damaged, mold damaged, and even smoke and soot damaged items look like new again. When the crew arrives to your home after a damage has occurred, our trained professionals with pack up each affected item and thoroughly clean the contents to be delivered back to the customer. This is so important for customers who have items they would rather try and restore rather than replace.

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico County has been fighting fire and water damages for over 30 years and we will continue to make our customers happy by restoring their home as well as their personal contents.

Prepping Your Home for Winter Weather

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get your home winterized. Heating your home is expensive but there are a few things you can do with a low budget that can quickly address problem areas. Follow this checklist of quick fixes to make your home more energy efficient.

1. Install a door sweep – exterior doors, especially older doors, can allow drafts into your home. A sweep can be installed at the bottom base of the door and can stop the draft from entering your home.
2. Install weatherstripping – you can seal drafty doors inside the door frame a foam or felt weatherstripping. A low-cost trick to find a draft is holding a candle along the edges of the door and seeing if the flame is moving towards you.
3. Add attic insulation – although this isn’t a very low-cost option, it can have huge effects on your bill. Use a professional to install this insulation but ask which steps you can perform yourself to lower the cost.
4. Seal furnace ducts – start by sealing the exposed ducts in the attic, crawl space, garage and basement with high focus on where the ducts and vents come close to the floors, ceilings and walls. Instead of duct tape use a more durable option like metal tape.
5. Lower the hot water temperature – lowering the temperature to about 120 degrees will save money and the water is still hot enough for dishes, bathing and washing clothes.
6. Check outside leaks – use caulk for small problem areas or foam sealer for bigger holes and pay attention to chimneys, vents, doors frames, windows.
7. Cover windows – using your drapes, curtains and blinds can actually have a big impact on keeping the heat inside your home. Although when it is a warmer day, opening the curtains to let the sun warm the room can also be beneficial.

Thanksgiving Fire Safety

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment. Sometimes there are multiple people in the kitchen taking part in the preparations of multiple dishes. It can be hectic and dangerous, so keeping fire safety in mind is important!

Look at the Facts:

• According to the NFPA, in 2014, nearly four times as many home cooking fires occur on Thanksgiving as on a typical day.
• And, in the same year U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,730 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving, the peak day for such fires.
• Unattended cooking was by far the leading contributing factor in cooking fires and fire deaths.
• Cooking equipment was involved in almost half (48%) of all reported home fires and civilian and tied with heating equipment for the second leading cause of home fire deaths.

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.

For more information, please visit http://www.SERVPROrichmond.com/  to see what SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico County can do to help if disaster strikes. We are available for 24-hour emergency fire and water services.

Info provided by: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/wildfire-and-seasonal-fires/thanksgiving-safety

Why Choose SERVPRO of Richmond for Fall Cleaning

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

It's important to clean the fall leaves out of your gutters before the winter weather hits and causes potential water damage in your home.

Everyone has heard of spring cleaning, but not everyone knows the importance of fall cleaning! This is the time of year to get your house ready for the fall and winter weather. Check out this handy checklist of what to do before the fall leaves and winter weather takes over.

• Vacuum all lamp shades
• Hand clean all light fixtures
• Check gutters, clean if needed
• Wash windows and make sure they are sealed properly
• Have rugs professionally cleaned by SERVPRO of Richmond
• Wipe out kitchen and bathroom cabinets
• Test smoke & carbon monoxide detectors
• Wipe out window wells
• Sweep out garage
• Clean and store patio furniture
• Clean or replace shower liners
• Clean washing machine
• Clean dishwasher
• Go through food pantry
• Clean oven
• Clean and organize closets
• Clean grill

And last but not least, purge! Donate what you don’t need, wear, or use.

If you don't want to take on the fall cleaning yourself and you would like to have your house professionally and thoroughly cleaned, call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico County for an estimate at 804.740.6151.

We Host Free Continuing Education Classes

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

This is CE class was on Understanding the Restoration Industry: Property Fire Damage Restoration.

At SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico County, we are fortunate enough to have an onsite training center to host our local insurance agents and adjusters for continuing education credits. Our newly renovated training center is capable of hosting about 100 people for classes, training's or seminars.

This is very beneficial for our local agents and adjusters as all licensees are required to obtain at least 24 hours of continuing education credit in each two-year period between renewals. This year, SERVPRO of Richmond hosted 2 separate classes for our agents to receive a total of 8 credits.

A knowledgeable and interesting instructor leads theses topics that include property fire damage restoration, water damage restoration, contents cleaning, mold remediation, ethics courses, and more. Our agents and adjusters seem to love these classes and mention that they learn a lot about these topics. 

If you are a licensed insurance agent or adjuster and are interested in taking one of our offered CE classes, please don't hesitate to reach out to our office for more information at 804.740.6151.

Fire Prevention Week 2019

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

This week in October is dedicated to Fire Prevention. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) works to educate the public on the importance of fire safety and how to prepare for a fire in your household.

Here are some facts about household fires that you may not be aware of.

• Roughly 1 of every 326 households per year has a reported home fire.
• Most reported home fires were considered small. 56% were confined to the object or origin, while the fire spread beyond the room of origin in only 35% of the reported fires.
• Last year there were 1,319,500 fires reported in the Us.
• These fires caused 3,400 civilian deaths, 10,600 civilian injuries and $23 billion in property damage
• a fire department responded to a fire every 24 seconds
• one structure fire was reported every 63 seconds
• one civilian fire death occurred every 2 hours and 34 minutes
• almost all homes have at least one smoke alarm, but three out of every five home deaths resulted from fired in homes with no fire alarms or nor working alarms.

The major causes of structure fires include:

1. cooking equipment
2. heating equipment
3. electrical distribution & lighting equipment
4. intentional
5. smoking materials
6. clothes dryer or washer
7. exposure to other fire
8. candles
9. fan or AC
10. playing with heat source

It's so important to not only be aware of the dangers and the occurrence of fires in the home, but its also crucial to prepare your home and develop an escape plan. SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico County is always ready to respond to emergency services 24/7.

Water Damage? What To Do Until Help Arrives

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Extreme water damages can greatly impact your home or business if it’s not addressed quickly.

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico County has the tools and man-power to address our customer's issues as quickly as possible. However, since we cannot get to everyone at the same time, we can offer tips and measures to take while you wait for help to arrive.

What To Do Until Help Arrives:

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

In the event of a water damage, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico County will do everything to get to you as fast as possible and take care of your water damage. In the meantime, take these steps to safely save your affected furniture and personal items.

National Preparedness Month

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

September is known as National Preparedness Month and ready.gov has a theme each year to education people on why it's important to always be prepared in a case of an emergency. This year's theme is "Prepared, Not Scared."

For the first week of September, ready.gov encourages everyone to save early for Disaster Costs. This means you should text your insurance coverage, learn more about flood insurance, plan financially for the possibility of a disaster, and make an emergency financial first aid kit.

The second week is centered on making a plan. this includes an emergency plan, sign up for alerts and warnings in your area, and learn your evacuation zone.

Week 3 is all about teaching youth preparedness. It's important to teach children what to do in an emergency is they are at home or away from their home. You should also update school records and emergency contact numbers.

Week 4 is about getting involved in your community's preparedness. This includes looking into organizations like the National voluntary Organization Active in Disaster. the National safety Council, the Community Emergency Response Teams, and educate yourself with State and Local information.

Disaster Recovery Team Bahen

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

As Hurricane Dorian makes it's way through the Bahamas causing disaster and destruction in it's path, Disaster Recovery Team Bahen at SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico is preparing for the hurricane to hit the south eastern part of the United States.

Because we are a Disaster Recovery Team, we are able to travel outside our state to assist businesses affected by the storm with water damage restoration. We have the tools and resources to handle large disasters with the proper knowledge and training. Our Team leaders in charge of the DRT team are currently mapping out a plan on how to best respond in an efficient and strategic way. We are also loading equipment into trailers so we're ready to act fast when the fleet heads down east.

Back to School Deep Cleaning

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

School is almost back in session and SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico wants to make sure your schools and education facilities are in tip-top shape before they become full with students.

Our professionals can quickly address your buildings needs and give a thorough and deep cleaning to areas that may be prone to germs and other contaminants. This cleaning goes beyond the regular janitorial capabilities and offers quality and professional cleaning including stain removal, upholstery and drapery cleaning, duct cleaning and indoor air quality, and even vandalism.

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico's team is trained to clean and sanitize every area inside the building and can help prevent the spread of germs and viruses, using our professional cleaning products. Give us a call at 804.740.6151 to get your educational facility ready for school!

Top 5 Most Common Causes of House Fires

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Here are top 5 most common causes of house fires as identified by the National Fire Protection Association.

1. Candles

From 2007-2011, the NFPA says there were an average of 10,630 fires in the U.S. that were started by candles, causing 115 deaths, 903 injuries and approximately $418 million in property damage. That is an average of 29 candle fires per day.

Safety tips:

• Never leave a candle burning near flammable items.
• Never leave a candle burning in a child’s room or an unoccupied room.
• Make sure candles fit securing into candle holders so they won’t tip over.
• Blow out any candles before leaving a room or going to sleep

2. Smoking

While the number of fires caused by smoking is trending downward, the NFPA found that there were still an average of 17,600 related fires per year resulting in 490 deaths and more than $516 million in property damage.

Safety tips:

• If you smoke, consider smoking outside.
• Use wide, sturdy ashtrays to catch butts and ashes.
• Look for cigarette butts under furniture and between seat cushions to make sure no lit butts have fallen someplace where they can’t be seen.
• Don’t smoke in bed, when you’re tired or around medical oxygen.

3. Electrical & Lighting

According to the NFPA, in 2011 approximately 47,700 home structure fires were caused by some sort of electrical failure or malfunction. These resulted in 418 deaths, 1,570 injuries and $1.4 billion in property damage.

Safety tips:

• Don’t overload outlets or electrical cords.
• Make sure you have the right cord for the job – inside cords for inside, heavy duty/outside cords for outdoor use.
• Don’t leave Christmas lights, Christmas trees, or halogen lights on overnight or when not at home.
• Consider having an electrician perform an annual checkup of your home’s wiring.

4. Dryers & Washing Machines

Clothes dryer fires happen more often than one might think, accounting for 16,800 home structure fires in 2010 and doing more than $236 million in property damage. 

Safety tips:

• Clean the lint screen frequently and don’t run the dryer without it.
• For gas and propane dryers, make sure there aren’t any leaks in the lines.
• Vent the dryer to the outside of the house and ensure nothing blocks the vent pipe.
• Clean the vent pipe and the area where the screen is housed.
• Keep the area around the dryer free of combustible materials.

5. Lightning

From 2007-2011, NFPA says there were an average of 22,600 fires per year caused by lightning strikes.

Safety tips:

• Stay away from doors and windows during an electrical storm.
• Do not use corded phones, computers, TVs or other electrical equipment during storms.
• Unplug major electronics – TVs, stereo equipment, computers and microwaves to minimize damage if there is a lightning strike close by.
• Avoid plumbing such as sinks, baths and faucets during a thunderstorm.

You experience a fire in your home, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804.740.6151

What to Do for Power Outages

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

This summer, we have seen some major power outages across the nation. Power outages can not only be dangerous to you and your family, but they can also cause immense stress if you are not properly prepared.

According to ready.gov:

Before a Power Outage:

• Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
• Make sure you have alternative charging methods for your phone or any device that requires power.
• Charge cell phones and any battery powered devices.
• Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door opener is located and how to operate it.
• Purchase ice or freeze water-filled plastic containers to help keep food cold during a temporary power outage.
• Keep your car’s gas tank full-gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps. If you use your car to re-charge devices, do NOT keep the car running in a garage, partially enclosed space, or close to a home, this can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by visiting your state’s or local website so you can locate the closest cooling and warming shelters.
• If you rely on anything that is battery-operated or power dependent like a medical device determine a back-up plan.

During a Power Outage

• Only use flashlights for emergency lighting, candles can cause fires.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for several hours. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Take steps to remain cool if it is hot outside. In intense heat when the power may be off for a long time, consider going to a movie theater, shopping mall or “cooling shelter” that may be open in your community. If you remain at home, move to the lowest level of your home, since cool air falls. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Put on layers of warm clothing if it is cold outside. Never burn charcoal for heating or cooking indoors. Never use your oven as a source of heat. If the power may be out for a prolonged period, plan to go to another location (the home of a relative or friend, or a public facility) that has heat to keep warm.
• Turn off or disconnect appliances and other equipment in case of a momentary power “surge” that can damage computers and other devices. Consider adding surge protectors.
• If you are considering purchasing a generator for your home, consult an electrician or engineer before purchasing and installing.
• Only use generators away from your home and NEVER run a generator inside a home or garage, or connect it to your home's electrical system.

If you experience a water damage after a storm, call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico at 804.740.6151 to remediate your damage and restore you home to pre-storm damage condition.

Commercial Duct Cleaning

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

When was the last time you had the duct system cleaned in your business? Without attention, years of dust and dirt built up in your ducts can cause problems for your budget and your employees. Luckily, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico has the knowledge, tools and experience to thoroughly clean your HVAC duct system to prevent the potential for damage and health risks.

Keeping the HVAC system and ductwork clean can  also help extend the life of your equipment, which allows it to operate smoothly and efficiently - saving you money in the long run.

When you call the SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico professionals, we can assist in the following ways:

• remediate bacteria and mold
• reduce potential for mold growth
• eliminate offensive odors
• restore peak energy efficiency
• provide free written inspections and estimates

If you never had your office or commercial building's HVAC and duct system cleaned, call us today at 804.740.6151.

Fire Safety 101

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

Fires started in nature are one of the most unpredictable and damaging disasters we can face. However, many fires that start in the workplace or home can be avoidable if the right precautions are taken.

Following these 10 steps to reduce the risks of fires in your home or business:

1. Install smoke alarms on every level on the home or office and inside bedrooms.
2. Test smoke alarms once per month and replace batteries once a year.
3. Have a fire escape plan and practice it with your family and coworkers.
4. Inspect electrical cords and replace them if they are damaged.
5. Be careful when using candles and keep them a foot away from items that can burn and never forget to blow them out when you leave the house or go to bed.
6. Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
7. Give space heaters at least thee feet of space from anything that can burn.
8. Keep an eye on your cooking, especially when frying, boiling or grilling.
9. Smoke outside and never in bed.
10. install sprinklers in your office.

If you experience a fire in your home or office, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico to handle your disaster the professional and right way!

Threat of Tropical Storms

7/11/2019 (Permalink)

This time of year is when the threat of severe weather and tropical storms begin to loom over the country. The storms could grow from a tropical depression to a tropical storm and then eventually, if it gets strong enough, a hurricane. Luckily in Richmond, Virginia, we don't experience the mass flooding that comes from these storms, but that doesn't mean we can't be there to help when it hits somewhere else!

Disaster Recovery Team Bahen has already made it's way down to New Orleans to help out wherever we're needed. Right now, according to the National Hurricane Center, the tropical storm is expected to become Hurricane Barry and intensify quickly in the next couple of days. Since the movement of this storm is so slow, it will result in a long-duration heavy rainfall. SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico's Disaster Recovery Team is on the move with generators and water extracting equipment needed to get businesses affected with water damage back to normal as quickly as possible.

Severe Weather - Tornadoes and Floods

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

This year, we have already seen a multitude of tornadoes and floods affect our nation. Strong storms with large hail, heavy winds and extreme downpours have wreaked havoc in places like D.C.

Even though in Richmond, VA we are not a hot-spot for the threat of tornadoes, we still experience them and heavy storms. It is always a good idea to be prepared in case a disaster strikes. About 1,200 tornadoes hit the U.S. yearly and cause hundreds of thousands in damage.

Here are some tips for preparing for a severe storm:

• secure items that are likely to blow away
• cover windows and nail down shutters
• don't park under or near large/old trees
• prepare for power outages with charges cell phones and extra batteries and flash lights
• stock your emergency kit

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico will respond 24-hours a day to emergency water damage services. We are also an extreme team, meaning we can travel across the country to assist with a storm damage or very large loss. Call 804.740.6151 for a quick response!

We Serve Commercial Businesses

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richmond is one of the largest SERVPRO Franchises on the East Coast. Out of 1,700 franchises, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico was ranked #4 Best Franchise in 2016. We take pride in our work and we provide great service to our local commercial businesses.

Cleaning and restoring commercial properties require a unique blend of training, experience, and equipment. SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico has the resources and expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. We can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Here is a list of some of the businesses we provide service to:

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

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico responds quickly to your Richmond fire, water, or mold damage emergency, 24 hours a day. Whether the damage occurs in a small business building or a big box store, we have the training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation.

What to Know About Water Mitigation and Restoration

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

When tragedy strikes, it can be difficult to know what to do. Accidents involving water can be quite challenging. Water damage in Richmond can be quite detrimental, and it can be quite helpful to know how water mitigation and restoration can help with the situation.

Water mitigation can reduce the possibility or likelihood of a building receiving water damage after there is a water leak or a natural disaster that features water. It is important that water mitigation occur as soon as possible. Contacting a professional who is experienced in water mitigation is a great start in taking care of the situation. A professional knows what to do in terms of getting rid of the water quickly.

One of the first things that technicians do when they arrive on the scene is to assess the situation. Water can get under walls and seep into rooms. Not only that, but water can become attached to drywall, wood and other places within a home or business that can do terrible damage. Professionals have numerous tools that can identity where the water and moisture is at within a building. Moisture probes and special detectors are specifically designed to identify and locate moisture. Once the water and moisture has been identified, professionals may take photographs that have been impacted by the water. This can be very beneficial to a homeowner and an insurance company in terms of record keeping and evidence of a problem.

After these things have been addressed, professionals will use equipment and tools that can alleviate the water and moisture. Some of the equipment can include a blower that can dry a floor or a wall in a brief amount of time. A specialized dehumidifier can do a fantastic job in reducing the amount of moisture that is within a building.

Once the water mitigation has been done, that is when the process of restoration begins. When people think of restoration, they may only think of the structure of the building. The walls may have begun to display mold. The basement ceiling may have shown signs that water damage. Carpeting may need to be replaced because of dirty water that has covered it. All of these things need to be repaired, replaced or restored. It is good to hire a professional to take care of the restoration process and to ensure that mold and bad smells have been eliminated from the building. Although the process may take a day or two, the results are absolutely worth it. It is good to consider hiring a professional in the restoration process.

After the structure has been addressed, there is much more to be done. Perhaps cabinets to a kitchen or bathroom have been damaged. They have to be replaced. Furniture may need to be replaced or receive a thorough cleaning. In addition to this, there are personal items that need to be considered. Items may include electronics, books, clothing and more. Taking care of these things pertains to the restoration process, and it needs to be done correctly.

Water mitigation and restoration can help people who live or work within a building have things back to normal. Whatever the situation is, help is available from professionals. A building can be taken care of the right way with the water mitigation and restoration that people need.

SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico's fully certified water removal staff can perform a complete damage assessment to your home of office, and then recommend and follow the industries standards to get your water removal restoration repaired properly available 24 hours a day.

Ceiling Damage from Storm

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

This tenant for a property local management company experienced a water damage to his ceiling after a heavy thunderstorm. The rainwater seeped through the roof and into his ceiling, causing the water to come through and out into his apartment. Our SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico crew came in to extract the water and demo the ceiling to remediate the damage the water caused.

After our mitigation crews dry out the affected areas using state-of-the-art tools and technology, SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico's reconstruction division will be able to come in a put the ceiling and walls back together again. We are a one-stop shop, making it easier for the customer to deal with one company that can finish every part of the work and finish it quickly and professionally!

Post-Construction Cleaning

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

If your business was just built or went through a renovation, who do you call to cleanup the mess that was left behind? It is so important for a business to open as quickly as possible after a major project or renovation. SERVPRO of Richmond is always here to help with any cleaning needs.

Along with out restoration and rebuild services, SERVPRO of Richmond provides customers post-construction cleanup services. Our professional, and highly-trained team will tackle everything and anything that needs addressing.

Cleanup includes:

• Walls
• Light fixures/fans
• All trimmings
• Floors
• Ceilings
• Doors
• Air Ducts, vents, baseboard heaters
• Windows
• Cabinetry
• Any trash or plastic left behind

If your property needs a thorough, post-contraction cleaning, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Richmond at 804-740-6151. We can handle any size, no matter how big or small!

Richmond Home Fire Damage

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

In the event that your home in Richmond suffers fire damage, you may be struggling to complete the restoration process. As many homeowners know, there are numerous tasks that you must complete to get back on your feet and restore your property. Some of those tasks include meeting with insurance agents, doing an inventory of damaged materials, and dealing with the emotions that result from enduring a traumatic event. The above steps are valid for a small, localized fire event. You may need to hire a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO to assess damages and complete the fire damage restoration process. If there is any depth to the fire damage allow SERVPRO to communicate with your insurance adjuster and do an on-site assessment and inspection of the fire damage in your Richmond home. A proper water removal, drying, cleanup and repair plan than can be professionally initiated.

Let The Professionals Of SERVPRO of Richmond Assist You

Once your home in Richmond has been impacted by fire damage, it's critically important that you obtain excellent, expedient remediation services from a highly qualified company like SERVPRO.  By communicating with you and your insurance company an efficient, cost-effective plan of action can immediately start. Our commitment to excellence, training with IICRC certification, and equipment have made us the industry leader with over 1,700 franchises. Allow us to release you from unwanted stress and get you back home.

SERVPRO of Richmond is locally owned and operated. Call us for help for fire or water damage assistance. (804) 740-6151

Gutters Are Your Home Heroes

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you've realized it or not, gutters are your true hero for protecting against a potential water damage to your home. They collect the water sliding down your roof and divert it away from the structure and your landscaping. However, if you are not maintaining them and keeping them in proper working condition, there could be a potential water damage disaster waiting to happen. 

What Should You Should Pay Attention To:

• Older Gutters - old gutters are more likely to be damaged or contain open seams. make sure you pay close attention and make the necessary repairs when needed.
• Build Up of Debris - this can lead to pools of water forming on your roof an eventually leaking into your ceiling and into your home. Use a leaf blower or pressure washer to clean them out quarterly
• Storm Damage - cracks or breaks can occur after a rain, wind or hail storm. It's important to inspect them and fill any holes with gutter caulk.

If you do experience a water damage from a roof leak, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Richmond at 804.740.6151.

Core Values

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Richmond we pride ourselves on holding up to our core values as a locally owned company and as a team. We believe in 6 key values that represent our company and makes us stand out in the community.

1. Growth - Pursue growth through knowledge, excellence, innovation and continuous improvement every day - at every level.
2. Integrity - Do what is right and fair - Our relationships with customers, suppliers and each other are based upon honesty, trust, and mutual respect. We do what we say we will do.
3. Being the Best - We relentlessly pursue excellence in everything we do. We embrace technology and superior quality, value and service to our customers and coworkers. As a team, we work together to meet the needs of our customers and help the company win.
4. Leadership - Provide strong, supportive management teams who embrace and drive change, promote honestly, integrity, innovativeness, teamwork, excellence and empowerment of individuals.
5. Customer Service - To achieve total customer satisfaction by understanding what the customer wants and delivering it flawlessly.
6. Teamwork - Our team is reliable, honest, supportive of each other's efforts, enthusiastic and positive. We communicate openly and face challenges optimistically. We are accountable, deliver on promises and strive to exceed expectations.

Prepare Your Home Before Leaving for Vacation

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

It's that time of the year again! Summer break is here and it's time for everyone to pack up and head to their favorite vacation spot that you've been planning for weeks! However, are you planning for the safety of your home while you're gone?

Check out these tips that could save your home from a water damage or other potential threats while you relax on the beach.

Take Plumbing and Electric Precautions

1. Shut off gas and water at the meter, supply tank or appliances
2. Turn off the water valves to washing machines, sinks, and the dishwasher
3. Unplug electronics to cut down on any possible shortages
4. Check your smoke detectors to ensure they are working properly
5. Adjust your thermostat to 75-80 degrees, which should help control usage.

Make Arrangements With Emergency Contact

1. Close friend or neighbor
2. Provide emergency contacts
3. Turn on porch lights
4. Collect mail - burglars look for homes with overflowing mail
5. Leave written information on alarm codes.

Veteran Experiences Home Fire

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

Last week, the Henrico Board of Supervisors invited SERVPRO of Richmond and other groups involved in repairing Vietnam Vet Walter Flanagan's home fire to be recognized for helping a fellow resident at his time of need. Our General Manager, Bobby Morgan originally went out and met with the fire marshal, building inspector and the customer. The homeowner got the house from his parents but has no homeowners insurance. His parents kept everything and every room was full of contents. Our crews delivered boxes, packing paper, sharpies, trash bags, and packing tape to the home and began boxing up the homeowner's belongings that can be saved and cleaned from the smoke and soot damage. Our crews also set up a generate to give power to his home. Volunteers also contributed to cleaning contents, putting up drywall and insulation, and even painting the rooms in his home. While our team helped out this veteran, we also involved the local news to call for other groups or organizations to donate their time and resources. Multiple local organizations stepped in to help this veteran out and we were able to get him back inside his home with a new renovated kitchen and all new appliances. At the Board of Supervisors Meeting, Mr. Flanagan addressed the audience and expressed his gratitude for everyone involved in fixing his home.

Why Choose SERVPRO® of Richmond

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

• Locally independently owned and operated, with the headquarters established in Chesterfield
• Consistently recognized in the top ten of 1,700 national locations
• Ranked 4th SERVPRO® Franchise in 2015
• Named Franchise of the Year in 2008
• More than 30 years of experience serving our local community
• Second largest franchise on the East Coast - Extreme Team Bahen
• Excellent reputation with homeowners, insurance companies, business owners, facility managers, local and state government agencies and commercial property management teams

Company and Technician Certifications

• NADCA – National Air Duct Cleaning Association
• EPA – Lead Certified Firm
• IAQA – Indoor Air quality Association
• IICRC – Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration
• CDS – Commercial Drying Specialist
• WRT – Water Damage Restoration
• ASCA – Air Systems Cleaning Specialist
• OSHA – OSHA Training and Compliance
• FSRT – Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• AMRT – Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• Plus many more

In the unfortunate event of a fire or water damage, call SERVPRO® of Richmond. We Weill respond 24/7 with trained employees, state-of-the-art equipment and the resources required to perform emergency services to limit property damages.

Fire Prevention Week

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere,” works to educate people about three basic but essential steps to take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire––and how to escape safely in the event of one:

LOOK
Look for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home. Identify potential fire hazards and take care of them.

LISTEN
Listen for the sound of the smoke alarm. You could have only minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Go to your outside meeting place, which should be a safe distance from the home and where everyone should know to meet.

LEARN
Learn two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter.

This week is an also an opportunity for local firefighters to visit schools and teach children the importance of fire safety. They want to make sure you’re doing all you can to keep your family safe. Firefighters are also encouraging smokers to make sure they throw out butts and ashes correctly because it only takes something small to spark a fire if the conditions are dry.

For more info please visit: http://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Campaigns/Fire-Prevention-Week

No Job Too Large

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richmond has just begun a large project right here in our warehouse. A company was carrying 1,200 pallets from overseas into the US when the pallets were exposed to heavy moisture and water. Needless to say, these pallets sitting in moisture for an extended period of time began to produce growth. 

Our team was able to come up with a game plan to handle a job this large. The process consisted of cleaning, remediating and re-wrapping all 1,200 pallets. A 60 x 30 containment area filled with air scrubbers was constructed inside our warehouse to perform the necessary measures to get these pallets cleaned and free of mold. It was important to build a containment area to keep the air scrubbers working efficiently in a confined space.

If you has a small patch of mold in your house or 1,200 pallets covered in mold, choose the professionals at SERVPRO of Richmond to handle your job the right way.

Commercial Cleaning Services in Richmond

7/24/2018 (Permalink)

If you are a business owner, or run a particular business that receives a lot of visitors and foot-traffic, you know how important it is to keep your business looking clean and in good shape. A lot of times, you don't have the time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office.

When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Richmond for prompt service. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.

SERVPRO of Richmond offer cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Our cleaning services include the following:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstrey
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deordorization
• Vandalism

Severe Weather - Tornado Season

7/11/2018 (Permalink)

Luckily, in Richmond, VA we do not experience the potential threats that tornadoes can have as often as other parts of the country. These places include the upper Mid-west, the northern and southern plains and the Gulf coast.

Tornado season usually refers to the time of year the U.S. sees the most tornadoes. The peak “tornado season” for the Southern Plains is during May into early June. On the Gulf coast, it is earlier during the spring. In the northern plains and upper Midwest, tornado season is in June or July. But, remember, tornadoes can happen at any time of year. Tornadoes can also happen at any time of day or night, but most tornadoes occur between 4–9 p.m.

However, it is always a good idea to be prepared in case a disaster strikes. About 1,200 tornadoes hit the U.S. yearly. Since official tornado records only date back to 1950, we do not know the actual average number of tornadoes that occur each year. Plus, tornado spotting and reporting methods have changed a lot over the last several decades.

SERVPRO of Richmond will respond 24-hours a day to emergency fire and water services. We are a proud partner with the Red Cross and take part in cleaning up damages after a storm. SERVPRO of Richmond is also an extreme team, meaning we can travel across the country to assist with a storm damage or very large loss. We have the tools and the people who have experience in water, storm, fire damage restoration and we are always here to help.

A list of questions and answers about tornadoes can be found here

We Can Handle Any Size Disaster

7/11/2018 (Permalink)

Over the weekend a very well-known restaurant located in downtown Richmond went up in flames. The fire started in the second-floor kitchen late in the night and spread throughout the entire building. Even the basement was severely affected by fire, water and smoke damage. Our SERVPRO of Richmond crew quickly sprang into action to begin the cleanup process as soon as possible.

When SERVPRO of Richmond deals with a large commercial loss, organization and efficiency is key. As seen in the displayed picture, our crews carefully pack up affected contents and document each item that is packed into boxes. Everything that will be handled is recorded and packaged carefully to be transported back to the warehouse where they will be cleaned, sanitized and delivered back to the customer.

Because we are a 24-hour emergency service company, we can begin services as soon as the disaster strikes. We have the necessary tools and equipment, as well as a large group of professionals who know exactly what needs to be done to properly restore the commercial building.

Commercial Sewage Cleanup

7/11/2018 (Permalink)

Sewage back-ups and toilet overflows are some of the most common issues home and business owners can experience. Water from sewer system backups should be considered very dangerous. The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness.

Special training and equipment is necessary to safely clean this type of contamination. That’s why it is important to call the professionals who have over 30 years of experience cleaning up these types of issues. SERVPRO of Richmond understands that there are three major types of contaminated water and the necessary steps to handle each scenario. SERVPRO of Richmond will inspect that contaminated water to determine the type of water and then plan the appropriate response to safely restore your home or business.

The Three Types of Water

Category 1: Clean Water

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: Gray Water

• May contain bacteria and viruses - may include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated.

Category 3: Black Water

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

If your home or business experiences a sewage issue, it should be treated as quickly as possible. Call SERVPRO of Richmond at 804.740.6151 and our professionals will respond 24 hours a day for emergency services.

How to Prevent Water Damage from Rain

7/11/2018 (Permalink)

Everyone loves the occasional summer thunderstorm - but it could cause major problems if rain water seeps into your home. One of the most common sources of water damage in a home is from rain water. It can enter through leaks in your roof, seeping in from the foundation, or even flooding into your basement. It is important to take the necessary steps to prevent water damage in your home such as:

Checking for proper drainage:

• inspect your roof thoroughly for structural damage or holes
• clear your gutters from leaves and other debris that could block the flow of water from draining into the yard

Install or Check Sump Pumps:

• sump pump are very effective for keeping rainwater out of your house
• have a professional check your sump pump to insure it is working properly once a year

Check sealant inside and outside foundation

• make sure the tar sealant covering the inner and outer sides of the foundation are intact

Inspect the slope of your lawn

• grading is the slope of your lawn and it should always slope away from your home to redirect the rainwater from flooding around the foundations

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial. You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job. SERVPRO of Richmond can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

The Right Equipment for Fire Damages

7/11/2018 (Permalink)

We believe at SERVPRO of Richmond that the right tools for the job is vital to timely mitigation and restoration, but perhaps more important, SERVPRO of Richmond fire damage professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration. For instance, knowing the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns are vital to proper restoration.

• Wet Smoke – Plastics and Synthetics; Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary.
• Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood; Fast burning, high temperatures, dry, powdery, nonsmeary residues.
• Protein – Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
• Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs.
• Other Types – Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue.

Deodorization Equipment

Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that easily penetrates sites where odor-causing residues accumulate. The device can also be used to apply fungicides and disinfectants.

Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products in large volume, dense fogs suitable for confined areas. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that pair with and neutralize odor-causing particles.

Richmond - 5 Important Ways to Winterize Your Business

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Richmond water damage can be one of the most devastating events to happen to a home. If and when such an unfortunate and traumatic incident occurs, it is extremely important that you:

a) Contact your insurance company, and

b) Immediately hire the services of an expert Richmond water damage restoration company to fix the damages and restore your home to its former glory

The experts at professional restoration companies have the knowledge, experience and resources to quickly and efficiently repair your home. Using the right tools and equipment, they not only fix the problems, but they can also make sure that no nasty after-effects such as mold and mildew will remain behind to cause further problems.

In the immediate aftermath of a Richmond flood or fire, it is vital that you call on the expertise of water damage professionals. They can be quickly and easily found via professional restoration companies.

Working Together to Repair Your Home
To prevent the development of the secondary water-related problems mentioned above -- and the potential spread of dangerous spores and fungi -- it is better to have a team of experts undertaking the restoration in various parts of the home at the same time. Working together as a team in this manner, the water damage experts are better able to dramatically reduce the chances of secondary water damage.

Use of Specialized Tools
The experts at water damage restoration companies have immediate access to a variety of specialized tools and equipment that might not be readily available to you. 

- They can use tools such as industrial-strength dehumidifiers to easily pull more than 50 gallons of water each day from the affected area.

- They will use air-moving machines to move over a 100 cubic feet of around a particular room. This has a great impact on the evaporation process.

Used together, those two machines play an incredibly vital part in any restoration undertaking. Consider: Thoroughly drying out the area is the only way by which secondary water damage can be prevented, and the best way to do so is by the combined use of an air-moving machine and an industrial-strength dehumidifier. In addition, the water damage experts can also elect to use powerful chemical cleansers to destroy spores, mildew, mold and other fungi that might have already begun to grow in parts of your home.

Water Damage Experts Are Highly Experienced
You can depend on the experience of water damage experts. Whatever the cause of the damage, the experts are quick to use their extensive knowledge, training and experience to select the proper tools and right approach to carry out repairs effectively and efficiently.

Water damage experts are certified in multiple ways. For each type of certification level, they must demonstrate complete mastery of the corresponding restoration technique.

Ultimately, in the event of a fire or flood, water damage experts should be your go-to professionals for complete restoration services. Working in teams, they will use their combined years of experience and specialty equipment and tools to effectively repair your home in a quick and timely manner.

It is easy to hire Richmond water damage experts via professional restoration services, but you might need a referral from your home insurance provider before hiring them. However, once you have obtained said referral and instructed the restoration company to undertake the work, the water damage experts will respond immediately to begin the full and complete restoration process.

Contact your home insurance provider for more information and details concerning water damage experts

How to Deal with Mold in Your Richmond Home

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in Richmond, and Why a Remediation Team is the Answer  

When mold infestation becomes a problem at your residential property in Richmond, mold remediation is the solution. To learn more about what mold infestation is and how mold remediation can correct the issue, refer to the following short outline:

Mold: A Brief Overview

Have you ever noticed at your Richmond library, local university, or government building, a musty, dank odor? Often, people have this experience and assume the odor was caused by dust, old papers, or poor ventilation. However, it's important to note that the smell could have resulted from mold spores located somewhere in the building's structure. Additionally, the smell could be coming from the air conditioning and heating systems. In many cases, this health hazard goes ignored because visitors and employees are unaware that the culprit is mold. 

Richmond private homes, schools,  government buildings and public offices all contain natural amounts of mold spores. These spores are endemic in the environment. Once a natural disaster such as a flood or fire occurs, commercial and residential spaces become breeding grounds for mold. Water and moisture are conducive conditions for this explosive growth. These mold spores breed and grow within the building, and this can result in a toxic environment. In the event that a mold infestation becomes too profound for regular removal methods, it is appropriate and advantageous for you to seek professional services. 

What Is Mold Remediation? 

Although defined broadly, mold remediation is the process of eliminating any mold growth that exceeds a size of 10 square feet. Mold remediation differs from conventional mold removal methodologies. Specifically, the potential health hazards involved in the remediation process, coupled with the challenges of effectively removing the spores, necessitates the assistance of a professional team that has extensive experience in this field. These experts will use advanced techniques and specialized tools to get the job done. When you hire a professional remediation company such as SERVPRO to complete the mold remediation process, the crew will use precautionary containment procedures and industrial chemicals to prevent further contamination and proliferation of the mold spores. Experienced technicians with HEPA breathing equipment are the only individuals who should be completing this work.  Safety always comes first.

How Does The Mold Remediation Process Work?

Prior to cleaning the mold, expert mold remediation technicians will contain the area. This objective utilizes special plastic sheeting. The poly sheeting is thick enough to stop the small spores from escaping. Next, the remediation specialists will use an HEPA filtered vacuum, industrial strength cleansers, and wet vacuums to clean the mold and prevent it from spreading. Once this process is complete,  the remediation specialist can suggest if your furniture and books can be saved or if you'll need to replace them. 

Conclusion 

If you find your home subjected to the presence of mold, it's time to hire a professional remediation team. The team to call is SERVPRO. As mold remediation specialists, these experts provide detail-oriented, customer-centric services that yield results and earn high ratings on customer satisfaction. 

Locally Owned, with National Resources

SERVPRO of Richmond is locally owned and operated, so we are part of the Richmond community too. When you have a mold or water damage issue, we’re already nearby and ready to help. 

We use specialized mold remediation equipment. We can help.

Call (804) 740-6151.

Mold Removal vs. Mold Remediation

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richmond has been remediating mold in homes and businesses for over 30 years. Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Many restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy. We understand mold and mold growth. SERVPRO of Richmond has the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business.

It is important, especially after a water damage, to quickly address any signs of mold in the home or business. If there is moisture present, growth can start in as little as 48 hours. If not addressed in a timely manner, mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants. Mold can also produce a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

If you discover mold in your home, don’t hesitate to call the professionals who will abide by a remediation process:

1. Emergency Contact - (804) 740-6151
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

Mold Removal Richmond - A Professional Guide to Mold Removal in Your Home

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

By: Andrew M. Bahen

Mold removal is the last thing that any home owner wants to worry about. That is because mold has a nasty reputation of destroying homes from the inside out. An untreated mold problem can spread easily, damaging walls and other property in no time. Mold removal services may one day become a necessity, but with a little hard work, any home owner can prevent a mold problem before it starts.

What To Know Before A Mold Removal Project 

The first and most obvious question to ask is, how much mold damage is present in the home? A home owner can attempt to complete their mold removal without professional assistance, but there may come a time when that home owner is in over their head. The EPA has estimated that any mold spreading within a ten foot radius is manageable by the home owner. Beyond that, it is highly recommended that you seek the aid of a professional mold removal crew. 

Your second question should be, what objects are affected? If the mold has spread to the structure of the home, such as the walls or floor, then you will have to clean immediately. However, if the mold has only affected moveable objects, such as tables or chairs, then you must remove them from the home to prevent the mold from spreading further. Such objects may be cleaned elsewhere, such as in a yard or garage. 

How To Deal With Mold Damage 

It is important that you contain the mold problem before it spreads. Improper mold removal may actually cause the mold spores to spread, reaching other regions of the home and continuing the infection. 

Health is your number one concern when dealing with a mold problem. If you suffer from asthma or serious allergies, than you must seek the help of a professional removal service. There is no reason to put your health at risk. Use respiratory protection and protective clothing at all times when completing mold removal. Any clothing worn during the mold removal process must be thrown out or cleaned as soon as possible. 

All moveable objects should be bagged and taken away from the home. While moving an infected object, the mold spores may fall off and spread elsewhere, which is why a cleanup bag must be used. Even so, be sure to clean your home once the mold removal process has been completed, to be sure that no spores were left behind. Even previously uninfected items must be cleaned, or you may experience another mold problem down the road. 

Mold damage can affect the structure of your home. If this is the case, you should schedule an inspection with a professional mold removal service, to be sure that your home is safe. In most cases, cleaning the walls or floor will be enough to stop the problem, but be aware that more severe infections may require reconstruction. Nevertheless, timing is key. Deal with any mold problems as soon as they are discovered to reduce the damage done to your home and your health. 

SERVPRO of Richmond is locally owned and operated and serves Richmond, Henrico, Glen Allen, Chesterfield, Midlothian, Short Pump, Petersberg, Colonial Heights, Chester, Hopewell and surrounding communities. 

SERVPRO of Richmond's fully certified water removal staff can perform a complete damage assessment to your home of office, and then recommend and follow the industries standards to get your water removal restoration repaired properly available 24 hours a day.

The Benefits of Hiring a Richmond Professional Water Cleanup Company

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

The benefits of hiring a professional water cleanup company

Does your home have Richmond water damage from a flood or house fire? If so, it is imperative that you contact a professional restoration company immediately. It is likely that you have already experienced thousands of dollars in damage due to this unforeseen disaster. A Richmond restoration company has the professional expertise and equipment you need to mitigate water damage, thereby preventing structural damage and mold and mildew growth to your home. With the assistance of a professional restoration company, you can restore your home to its previously habitable condition and avoid thousands more in financial loss.

Prevent Structural Damage

When water fills your home due to a flood or during the extinguishing of a fire, it does more than just wreak havoc with your furniture and other personal belongings. Water seeps into your home’s wooden structures, causing them to swell or warp. If you do not address this problem immediately, it will eventually compromise the structural integrity of your home. This can result in stairs or roofs that collapse within days or weeks of the disaster. To prevent further structural damage to your home and begin the cleanup process, it is essential that you contact a water damage cleanup professional as soon as possible after a fire or flood. They have the necessary equipment, superior expertise, and trained professionals to respond to your problem immediately. A Richmond professional cleanup comapny will get the job done quickly and effectively, allowing homeowners to occupy their homes and restore their lives soon after a disaster.

Prevent Mold and Mildew 
In addition to the structural damage a flood or fire can cause, water in your home can cause the growth of mold or mildew often referred to as “secondary water damage.” This can happen as quickly as 24 hours after a disaster occurs, without a homeowner even realizing it. Mold and mildew growth is much more severe than the initial damage caused by the flood or fire because it can result in severe health issues for you and your family if left unchecked. Homeowners in warmer climates, or those who experience disasters during warmer months, are especially susceptible to mold and mildew growth. A warm, moist environment provides the perfect conditions for mold and mildew growth—damage that can be even more onerous and costly than water damage cleanup. Mold and mildew mitigation is a complex process that can take months. And if it’s not properly addressed, it can result in reducing your home’s value. Therefore, it is imperative that homeowners contact a professional restoration company immediately after a flood or fire. 

Although many homeowners are tempted to conduct some cleanup on their own, it is never a wise decision. Not only do you risk causing further damage to your home, you risk jeopardizing your personal safety. A water-damaged home is unsafe for you to enter after a fire or flood, but it is essential that you begin water damage cleanup immediately to prevent secondary water damage and advanced structural damage to your home. The best way to go about this is to contact a professional restoration company to help you in your cleanup efforts. For more information about finding the best restoration company in your area, you should consult with your homeowners’ insurance agent. The agent has experience with local water cleanup companies and can likely recommend companies that may suit a particular homeowner's needs.

Moisture Control is Key to Mold Control

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

• Keep humidity levels as low as you can—no higher than 50%--all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. Humidity levels change throughout the day as changes occur in the moisture in the air and the air temperature, so check the humidity levels more than once a day.
• If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes ACT QUICKLY to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture/water source.  Condensation can be a sign of high humidity.
• Be sure your home has enough ventilation. Use exhaust fans, which vent outside your home in the kitchen and bathroom. Make sure your clothes dryer vents outside your home.
• Fix any leaks in your home’s roof, walls, or plumbing so mold does not have moisture to grow.
• Clean up and dry out your home thoroughly and quickly (within 24–48 hours) after flooding.
• Remove or replace carpets and upholstery that have been soaked and cannot be dried promptly. Consider not using carpet in rooms or areas like bathrooms or basements that may have a lot of moisture. 

Call SERVPRO of Richmond at 804.740.6151 to remediate your mold growth.

We Understand

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richmond understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Richmond specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. SERVPRO of Richmond can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business. 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.

As the second largest SERVPRO franchise on the East Coast, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO of Richmond!

Hurricane Preparedness Week

5/8/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 7 – 13, 2017. This week is your time to prepare for a potential land-falling tropical storm or hurricane. It only takes one storm to change your life and community. Tropical cyclones are among nature’s most powerful and destructive phenomena. If you live in an area prone to tropical cyclones, you need to be prepared. Even areas well away from the coastline can be threatened by dangerous flooding, destructive winds and tornadoes from these storms.

Determine Your Risk

Hurricanes bring many hazards to U.S. coastlines and inland areas, including storm surge along the coast, inland flooding due to heavy rainfall, tornadoes, strong wind, rip currents and large waves.

Develop an Evacuation Plan

Find out today if you liv in a hurricane evacuation zone. Plan where you’ll go and how you would get there. Leave immediately if ordered to evacuate and be sure to plan for your pets.

Assemble Disaster Supplies

Get your supplies before hurricane season begins. Have enough food and water for each person for at least one week. Be sure to fill your prescriptions and have medicine on hand. Radios, batteries and phone chargers are also must haves. Gas up your vehicle and extra cash on hand.

Get Insurance Checkup

Check in with your insurance agent well before hurricane season, remember that flood insurance must be obtained separately. Prepare your home/vehicles according to your policy, and know where your insurance documents are located – take them with you if you evacuate. Visit floodsmart.gov for more information. 

Strengthen Your Home

There is a lot you can do around your home to help protect it from the strong winds that come with hurricanes. Well ahead of the approaching storm, trim trees on your property, shop for approved window coverings, collect loose outdoor items, secure all doors on you property, and find a safe location for your vehicle.

Help Your Neighbor

Many people reply on the assistance of neighbors before and after hurricanes. Help your neighbors collect the supplies they’ll need before the storm. Assist them with evacuation if ordered to do so or check on them after it’s safe for you to head outside.

Complete your Written Plan

Writing down your plan will help you avoid mistakes when faces with an emergency and ensure everyone in your home is prepared for the next storm.

Air Quality in Your Home and Business

5/3/2017 (Permalink)

May 1 – 5 is Air Quality Week! The theme for 2017 is Be Air Aware. This includes topics such as: Wildfires, Asthma and Air Quality, Air Quality Trends, Air Quality Around the World, and Citizen Science.

Why is it important to be knowledgeable when it comes to indoor air quality? Indoor air often contains higher concentrations of hazardous pollutants than outdoor air; however, the good news is that everyone can reduce indoor air pollution.

According to the National Safety Council:

Over the years, buildings have been made more airtight to conserve energy. A variety of methods have been employed to keep the hot or cool air from escaping from our homes: installing storm windows and insulation; applying caulk and weatherstripping to seal cracks and other openings; and heating our homes with kerosene, wood, coal, and natural gas. Unfortunately, when we trap in hot or cool air, we also trap in pollutants and sometimes generate more.

On average, people spend about 90 percent of their time indoors. Sixty-five percent of that is spent at home. To make matters worse, those who are most susceptible to indoor air pollution are the ones who are home the most: children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses. Children breathe in 50 percent more air per pound of body weight than adults do. EPA studies have found that pollutant levels inside can be two to five times higher than outdoors. After some activities, indoor air pollution levels can be 100 times higher than outdoors.

Children may be more susceptible to environmental exposures than adults and, because of their developing systems, particularly vulnerable to their effects. Asthma is a case in point. About 4.2 million children in the United States, and more than 12.4 million people. A recent study, published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine concluded that 65 percent of asthma cases among elementary school-age children could be prevented by controlling exposure to indoor allergens and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). By controlling biological contaminants (e.g., dust mites and cat allergens), asthma cases could be reduced by 55 to 60 percent.

Therefore, it is crucial to have your HVAC system in your company building and in your home professionally cleaned. This will reduce the circulation of dust, pollen and other contaminants that could affect people who are more susceptible to these effects.

SERVPRO of Richmond is professionally trained to thoroughly clean out air ducts and provide your family or company with clean air.

For more information, please visit: https://www3.epa.gov/airnow/airaware/

Why Seeking Professional Help to Clean a Fire Damage is the Best Option

3/15/2017 (Permalink)

Items affected by soot and smoke damage were cleaned with SERVPRO of Richmond's ultrasonic cleaning system.

No one plans for a fire to erupt in their home or business. Unfortunately, fire damage can occur at any time especially during this time of year. Space heaters, fire places, cooking equipment and candles are all perfect examples that could ignite your home into flames. Some people’s first reaction after a fire is to begin cleaning it up themselves. Here’s why you shouldn’t.

Water Damage – When the fire department responds to a fire in a home or business, they spray gallons of water into your property. The water will get everywhere- furniture, electronics, ceilings, clothing, floors, etc. The longer you wait to remove the water, the faster the damage will set in. Don’t try to remove the water yourself. You will waste valuable time that could be sent soaking up that damaging water. Calling SERVPRO of Richmond is the best option to quickly, efficiently and professional remove the water and to begin remediation to your home or business.

Soot Damage/ Smoke Damage – along with the extensive damage a fire can cause, soot and smoke damage is just as tricky. Smoke will get everywhere and travel throughout your home or business. It will affect everything in your home from furniture, clothing, walls, ceilings and floors. Soot will also be left behind staining walls and ceilings. SERVPRO of Richmond has the necessary products to property remove smoke and soot damage, as well as treating the contents affected by the fire.

Effected Contents – In some cases, a homeowner will discard their personal items effected by fire or smoke damage. This is another reason why you should call SERVPRO of Richmond. We can asses and inspect items to determine whether they are salvageable or unsalvageable. Our team will collect every item and thoroughly document each item to keep track and inventory all contents. A lot of times, we can clean and deodorize the effected contents.

Leave it to the professionals who have been restoring fire damages for over 30 years. We have the people, the tools, the equipment and the experience to handle any size disaster. Don’t try to handle it on your own. Time efficiency is key when it comes to a fire in your home or business.

Burn Awareness Week February 5th- 10th 2017

2/9/2017 (Permalink)

Every year, the first full week of February is dedicated to Burn Awareness. According to the American Burn Association, “this is designed to provide an opportunity for burn, fire and life safety educators to unity in sharing a common burn awareness and prevention message in our communities.”

Here are the facts provided by the ABA:

• Burn injuries continue to be one of the leading causes of accidental death and injury in the United States.
• Between 2010 and 2014, approximately 486,000 people were seen in Emergency Departments for treatment of non-fatal burn injuries.
• In 2014 alone, there were 3,275 deaths from fires, which includes 2,795 deaths from residential fires, 345 from vehicle crash fires, and 135 from other sources.
• One civilian fire death occurs every 2 hours and 41 minutes.
• The odds of a U.S. resident dying from exposure to fire, flames or smoke are 1 in 1442.
• The primary causes of injury include fire-flame, scalds, electrical and chemicals.
• Men are more likely to be burned than women (68% males and 32% females were seen at a burn unit).
• Most of the injuries occur in the home (73%) followed by work (8%)
• Tragically, children, the elderly, and the disabled are especially vulnerable to burn injuries, and almost one- third of all burn injuries occur in children under the age of 15.
• Children under five are 2.4 times as likely as the general population to suffer burn injuries that require emergency medical treatment.
• Young adults ages 20-29 have a probability of burn injury that is roughly 1.5 times the risk of the general population.
• Today, 96.8% of those who suffer burn injuries will survive. Unfortunately, many of those survivors will sustain serious scarring, life-long physical disabilities, and adjustment difficulties.

With these facts and statistics, it is easy to see why it is so important for the community to understand the dangers that come from burns. Especially when it comes to fire prevention, it is important to take precaution and the necessary steps to prevent possible disasters and injuries.

If you experience and fire in your home or business, call the trusted professionals who have been fighting fire damage for over 30 years. SERVPRO of Richmond is faster to any size disaster and can handle your fire damage with professionalism and precision.

31st Anniversary!

12/9/2016 (Permalink)

Today marks the 31st anniversary of SERVPRO of Chesterfield!

The growth of our franchise over the years has been phenomenal! What started out in a 10 X 10 room, has grown into a 50,000 square foot warehouse - employing up to 100 fantastic team members.

We couldn't have come this far without the support of our local communities in Richmond, Henrico and Tri-Cities and especially in Chesterfield. Thank you to our customers and clients for choosing Team Bahen to combat your disasters. Whether it's a fire, water, mold damage, or even a simple carpet cleaning, we are always here to help!

SERVPRO of Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico, & Tri-Cities, Plus is so excited for the future growth of our franchise. Here's to 31 more years!

Continuing Education Course: Deodorization & Biohazard Cleanup

11/16/2016 (Permalink)

Yesterday, SERVPRO of Richmond hosted a free Continuing Education Course for local insurance agents and adjusters. Most insurance professionals are required to earn a certain number of credits each year to uphold their licenses and be educated on certain topics that pertain to their daily experiences.

The agents were educated by a SERVPRO Corporate instructor on two topics including deodorization and biohazard cleanup. SERVPRO representatives brought in equipment that is used during the process of deodorization and cleaning up biohazard situations. Air foggers, cleaning and sanitization liquids, PPE (personal protective equipment), face masks, and other supplies were put on display and demonstrated by the instructor.

The instructor went into detail explaining our services that pertain to biohazard cleanup such as: sewage backup, crime scene residue, suicide/death accidents, homicide cleanup, blood cleanup, animal waste/remains, chemical spills, etc.

It was a very informative day for our local insurance professionals filled with educational facts and interesting discussions.

SERVPRO of Richmond is always happy to provide these courses to our local agents and educate them on the detailed processes SERVPRO takes to handle any type of disaster or accident.

Prepare Your Home for Fall

11/1/2016 (Permalink)

Prepare Your Home for Fall

It is important to pay close attention the interior and exterior parts of your home to prepare for fall weather. This includes, colder temperatures and falling leaves. Take at look at this checklist to ensure your home is ready for whatever the fall weather brings.

Interior:

1. Check for drafts
2. Have your furnace inspected
3. Winterize AC
4. Programmable thermostat
5. Test home safety devices
6. Clean dehumidifiers

Exterior:

1. Do a roof check
2. Check the chimney and fireplace
3. Stock up on firewood
4. Inspect siding
5. Clean the gutters
6. Check water drainage
7. Reinforce windows and doors
8. Turn off faucets and store hoses
9. Service sprinklers and irrigation system
10. Inspect nearby trees
11. Trim landscaping
12. Bring in flowerpots
13. Plant bulbs
14. Leaf removal
15. Put away seasonal furniture
16. Close the pool
17. Organize the shed

Pre-maintenance to your home can help you save money and conserve energy in your home. It also prevents disasters from occurring like roof leaks from clogged gutters and drafts entering your home. Please contact SERVPRO of Richmond if you experience and water or fire emergency in your home.

Prevent Carbon Monoxide Exposure This Winter

9/20/2016 (Permalink)

You Can Prevent Carbon Monoxide Exposure

• Do have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.
• Do install a battery-operated or battery back-up CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. If the detector sounds leave your home immediately and call 911.
• Do seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed, or nauseous.
• Don't use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, or garage or near a window.
• Don't run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open.
• Don't burn anything in a stove or fireplace that isn't vented.
• Don't heat your house with a gas oven.

ERP

9/20/2016 (Permalink)

Advantages of the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile:

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Call SERVPRO of Richmond today to inquire about an Emergency Ready Profile for your facility! This free assessment of your building will help save you time in an event of a disaster and established SERVPRO of Richmond as your fire and water mitigation and reconstruction provider!

Prepare Your Business for the Upcoming Winter Weather!

9/20/2016 (Permalink)

Tips for Preparing your Business for Winter Weather

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches.  Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas.  Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
• Ask SERVPRO of Richmond about starting a Disaster Recovery Plan for your business.

SERVPRO of Richmond has been helping the Richmond community for over 30 years. We are always ready for whatever happens and is available for 24-hour emergency fire and water services.

Carpet and Rug Cleaning - New System!

8/19/2016 (Permalink)

New Rug Cleaning System

As you may know, SERVPRO of Richmond is widely known for handling fire, water and mold damages professionally and effectively. But, what some people forget is that we offer numerous of other services to home and business owners as well!

Carpet and rug cleaning is a service that we deal with on a day-to-day basis. Even the highest-quality carpet and rugs can show soiling over time. It is important to clean your carpets and rugs regularly, especially ones that have a high traffic rate. As a general rule, you should have your carpets and rugs professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months. However, children and pets are huge factors that contribute to ware and tare and staining of your carpets and may require a more frequent cleaning. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning & Restoration Certification) states that 79% of soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming regularly is key to proper care and maintenance. However, just vacuuming every once in a while is not enough to get a good deep down clean.

We offer a range of specialized cleaning methods such as:

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

New System

Because we understand that our customer’s rugs are a very valuable material in their homes and business, SERVPRO of Chesterfield is excited to announce a brand new rug cleaning system!

This new state-of-the-art rug cleaning system offers our customers the opportunity to drop off their rugs at the SERVPRO of Richmond office location to be professionally cleaned. With this new system it will allow us to expand our already wide customer rug cleaning services to our residential customers with our new drop off rug service. The system comes equipped with a very large rug cleaning machine, which removes over 90% of moisture from rugs of almost any thickness in 3 minutes or less. This allows even heavy and dense textiles such as ninety-line hand-knotted Oriental rugs, to be processed quickly and efficiently. It also provides an electric hoist system that easily hangs the rugs for efficient drying and storage.

SERVPRO of Richmond will put into effect this new system within the next two weeks and will begin accepting drop off rug cleaning services. For more information, please contact our office at 804.740.6151.

FIRELINE Contents Restoration - Our New System!

8/2/2016 (Permalink)

Our employees being trained on the new FIRELINE system.

SERVPRO of Richmond has recently adopted the FIRELINE system, which has become the most widely used contents restoration production system in the industry. We are always looking for the best tools in the industry to satisfy our customer’s needs and provide them with the best results possible.

What is FIRELINE?

The FIRELINE Contents Restoration cleaning system is designed to thoroughly clean contents affected by soot, smoke damage, and other contaminants. This state-of-the-art, stainless steel construction delivers the ultimate in durability and efficiency, while utilizing the latest advancements in ultrasonic technology. FIRELINE provides consistent, high-quality cleaning results and high-volume production. It also comes equipped with specifically crafted contents baskets to cut down on damages caused by manually handling contents.

The Four Stations

The FIRELINE production system includes APW 4800 Pre-washer, APC 4800 Ultrasonic Cleaners and Oversize RDS 4800 Rinse Detail Station. Each of these units can accommodate three contents baskets simultaneously. The system also includes the TD 8000 High Volume Tunnel Dryer. Designed to keep up with FIRELINE’s high flow production rate, the Tunnel Dryer accommodates up to four contents baskets at a time.

After cleaning the affected contents, each item is carefully wrapped and placed in a specific labeled box to be delivered back to the customer. Trust the experts at SERVPRO of Richmond to professionally clean your contents with precision and care! 

Extreme Heat This Weekend in Richmond!

7/20/2016 (Permalink)

Stay cool and take the proper precautions in this extreme heat!

This weekend, temperatures are expected to reach the 3-digit mark! SERVPRO of Richmond wants you and your family to be safe and take the proper precautions during this time of extreme heat. When temperatures reaching this high, the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature.

Extreme Heat can cause the following:

Heat Exhaustion - Typically occurs when people exercise heavily or work in a hot, humid place where body fluids are lost through heavy sweating. Blood flow to the skin increases, causing blood flow to decrease to the vital organs. This results in a form of mild shock. If not treated, the victim's condition will worsen. Body temperature will keep rising and the victim may suffer heat stroke.

Heat Stroke - A life-threatening condition. The victim's temperature control system, which produces sweating to cool the body, stops working. The body temperature can rise so high that brain damage and death may result if the body is not cooled quickly.

To prepare for extreme heat, you should:

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary.
• Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.
• Install temporary window reflectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside.
• Weather-strip doors and sills to keep cool air in.
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings, or louvers. (Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent.)
• Keep storm windows up all year.
• Listen to local weather forecasts and stay aware of upcoming temperature changes.
• Know those in your neighborhood who are elderly, young, sick or overweight. They are more likely to become victims of excessive heat and may need help.
• Be aware that people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave than are people living in rural areas.
• Get trained in first aid to learn how to treat heat-related emergencies.

What you should do if the weather is extremely hot:

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio for critical updates from the National Weather Service (NWS).
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
• Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities.
• Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation.
• Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• Drink plenty of water; even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
• Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power during periods of extreme heat. Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345).

With temperatures this hot, give your body a break and take a swim!

Public Pool:

Randolph Pool: http://bit.ly/29NWxPf

Information provided by: https://www.ready.gov/heat

The ElectroClean Electronic Cleaning System

7/14/2016 (Permalink)

Christie Newman (Marketing & Sales Manager, Lee Cross (Marketing Representative) & Theresa Kelsor (Crew Chief) use ElectroClean to clean inside of TV.

What is ElectroClean?

ElectroClean is a state-of-the-art electronic database program designed to quickly and systematically test items that may been impacted by fire, soot, water, and other contaminants. This portable computer station keeps an inventory of each item. A three stage testing process provides value to the insured and the insurance company that once the restoration process is complete, the electronics are in working order. The ElectroClean system determines salvageable items and eliminates costly electronic replacement by determining what is restorable versus when replacement is required.

Why ElectroClean?

• Eliminates the expense of replace electronics when salvageable

• Items tested before any other process, tested again after cleaning, testing a third time after ozone cleaning

• On-site inventory, consistent forms/documents, standardized pricing

• Portable computer testing system with cloud-based database

• Tests hard drives from computers and provides data recovery

What Can Be Tested?

• Computers, Hard Drives, Key Boards

• Printers, Scanners

• TVs, Wireless Controllers

• Gaming Devices, Consoles, Remote Controls

• Speakers, Subwoofers

• Cables and Electronic Cords

• DVD players, DVDs, CD players, CDs

• Radios, Air Conditioners

Technology is not only valuable, but it is something we rely on every day. SERVPRO® of Richmond understands this and therefore has adopted the ElectroClean system to salvea our customer's electronics. We deeply care about the customer and will do everything we can to salvage your personal belongings, making it “Like it never even happened!”

#4 Best in the Nation!

7/7/2016 (Permalink)

Our awesome team at SERVPRO® of Chesterfield, Richmond, Henrico & Tri-Cities, Plus!

This year was the 47^th Annual SERVPRO® Convention, which welcomes all franchise owners to take part in workshops for sales, marketing, production, office and executive divisions. They also attend a tradeshow highlighting the newest equipment in the industry. This is an opportunity to discuss new ideas and ways to improve each franchise using and developing new technologies that combat your fire, water and mold damage professionally 

Oh yeah – they also give out awards!

Out of almost 1,700 SERVPRO® franchises, SERVPRO® of Chesterfield, Richmond, Henrico & Tri-Cities, Plus was awarded #4 Best Franchise in the Nation! We want to thank everyone from our SERVPRO® team and our dedicated owners, Andy & Theresa Bahen for their continuous hard work! We couldn’t be more excited for this huge recognition of the great work our company has provided for more than 30 years. Andy and Theresa Bahen are the backbone to this company and have truly earned this title because of the hard work, dedication and passion they tirelessly put forth every day.

Thirty years ago, SERVPRO® of Chesterfield got its start working out of a 10x10 room. Now, the company has grown into a 50,000 square foot facility staffing about 100 people. Everyone including the wonderful office staff, the project managers, crew chiefs, the marketing department and technicians, all have major roles in creating this highly-valued company.

SERVPRO® of Chesterfield, Richmond, Henrico & Tri-Cities, Plus has earned an excellent reputation with homeowners, insurance companies, business owners, facility managers, local and state government agencies and commercial property management teams. We cherish these relationships and will continue to work hard, growing the trust and support we’ve earned throughout the years.

We can only move forward from here! Next stop: #3!

Go Team Bahen!

Firework Safety!

6/30/2016 (Permalink)

The 4th and Fireworks

It’s that time of year again! Outdoor barbeques, cook-outs, summer beach vacations, and of course, fireworks! Whether you’re celebrating in your red, white and blue this weekend, or just enjoying a little backyard firework show this summer, knowing firework safety might help protect you and your loved ones from the potential harms of mishandling fireworks.

THE FACTS

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, their staff received reports of 11 non-occupational fireworks-related deaths occurring in 10 incidents during 2014. Four victims died in house fires caused by fireworks and seven victims died from direct impacts of fireworks.

It was also reported that fireworks were involved in an estimated 10,500 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments during calendar year 2014.

There’s no doubt that everyone enjoys watching those mesmerizing array of colors shooting into the sky, so here are some recommended safety tips from the National Council on Firework Safety:

• Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
• Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
• A responsible adult SHOULD supervise all firework activities.  Never give fireworks to children.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.  Save your alcohol for after the show.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
• Use fireworks OUTDOORS in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never relight a “dud” firework.  Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
• Never carry fireworks in your POCKET or shoot them into METAL or GLASS containers.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
• FAA regulations PROHIBIT the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.

SERVPRO of Richmond would like to wish everyone a fun and safe holiday! And remember, you know who to call when disaster strikes!

SERVPRO of Richmond 804.740.6151

The Importance Of Attaining Professional Fire Damage Repairs in Chesterfield

8/23/2015 (Permalink)

Fire Damaged Roof Needs Professional Repair

A Fire Damaged Chesterfield Home Needs Restoration

When a Chesterfield homeowner finds himself grappling with a fire in his home, the first instinct is often to run back into the house to remove any valuable possessions. However, this activity can present a host of problems given that fire damage tends to weaken the structural integrity of the house. Additionally, the smoke that results from the house fire can generate toxic chemicals that cause health problems if inhaled. It is wise to stay out of the structure, therefore, preventing the possibilities of injuries from these dangers. It is important to obtain professional fire damage repair services. Restoration companies possess the expertise, experience, and equipment necessary to restore order to your home in Chesterfield. Learn more about the value of attaining professional fire damage repair services by reviewing the following information:

Assessing Fire Damage Repairs

One of the first and most important services a professional restoration company will offer is the assessment of your fire damage. To accomplish this work, the company's professionals will complete a fire damage assessment. The task will consider both exterior and interior fire damage that have affected your property. This process includes numerous steps. Specific tools to measure damage, inspecting for hidden structural damage and taking pictures of the property are just a few of the required steps. Coordination between you, your insurance company and SERVPRO is a good first step.

Fire Damage Repair Services

A professional restoration company is skilled in offering a wide range of helpful fire damage repair services and should specialize in fire and water damage restoration. Restoring your residential property to its original condition as quickly as possible demands experience, equipment and a sense of urgency. First comes the repair and then the restoration to your home. Some of the services provided are:  

• Removing and replacing drywall or flooring that has been damaged by water

• Preventing mildew and mold growth by drying excess water from your property

• Rebuilding and reinforcing your home's structure

• Using tools like ozone machines and dehumidifiers to eliminate smoky smells and moisture from your property

• Replacing plumbing fixtures or appliances so that your home can regain its original condition 

Conclusion

As made clear by the information listed above, a professional fire restoration company can offer a wide range of restorative services once your home has fire damage. As a company committed to consistently offering ethical, excellent work, you can count on the professionals of SERVPRO to provide you with the precise, effective fire damage repair services you deserve. We're ready to assist you if the need should ever arise.

Locally Owned, with National Resources

We live and work in Chesterfield  too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Richmond is close by and ready to respond to your fire damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the Chesterfield community and want to pitch in and help make our community the best it can be. 

When fire and water damage strikes, a fast response is critical. We’re dedicated to responding immediately night or day to your Chesterfield home or business. Call us.  (804) 740-6151

Richmond Water Damage Experts: For the Best Repair of Your Home after a Fire or Flood

4/24/2015 (Permalink)

Richmond Water damage can be one of the most devastating events to happen to a home.

Water damage experts: for the best repair of your home after a fire or flood

Richmond Water damage can be one of the most devastating events to happen to a home. If and when such an unfortunate and traumatic incident occurs, it is extremely important that you:

a) Contact your insurance company, and

b) Immediately hire the services of an expert Richmond water damage restoration company to fix the damages and restore your home to its former glory

The experts at professional restoration companies have the knowledge, experience and resources to quickly and efficiently repair your home. Using the right tools and equipment, they not only fix the problems, but they can also make sure that no nasty after-effects such as mold and mildew will remain behind to cause further problems.

In the immediate aftermath of a Richmond flood or fire, it is vital that you call on the expertise of water damage professionals. They can be quickly and easily found via professional restoration companies.

Working Together to Repair Your Home
To prevent the development of the secondary water-related problems mentioned above -- and the potential spread of dangerous spores and fungi -- it is better to have a team of experts undertaking the restoration in various parts of the home at the same time. Working together as a team in this manner, the water damage experts are better able to dramatically reduce the chances of secondary water damage.

Use of Specialized Tools
The experts at water damage restoration companies have immediate access to a variety of specialized tools and equipment that might not be readily available to you. 

?They can use tools such as industrial-strength dehumidifiers to easily pull more than 50 gallons of water each day from the affected area.

?They will use air-moving machines to move over a 100 cubic feet of around a particular room. This has a great impact on the evaporation process.

Used together, those two machines play an incredibly vital part in any restoration undertaking. Consider: Thoroughly drying out the area is the only way by which secondary water damage can be prevented, and the best way to do so is by the combined use of an air-moving machine and an industrial-strength dehumidifier. In addition, the water damage experts can also elect to use powerful chemical cleansers to destroy spores, mildew, mold and other fungi that might have already begun to grow in parts of your home.

Water Damage Experts Are Highly Experienced
You can depend on the experience of water damage experts. Whatever the cause of the damage, the experts are quick to use their extensive knowledge, training and experience to select the proper tools and right approach to carry out repairs effectively and efficiently.

Water damage experts are certified in multiple ways. For each type of certification level, they must demonstrate complete mastery of the corresponding restoration technique.

Ultimately, in the event of a fire or flood, water damage experts should be your go-to professionals for complete restoration services. Working in teams, they will use their combined years of experience and specialty equipment and tools to effectively repair your home in a quick and timely manner.

It is easy to hire Richmond water damage experts via professional restoration services, but you might need a referral from your home insurance provider before hiring them. However, once you have obtained said referral and instructed the restoration company to undertake the work, the water damage experts will respond immediately to begin the full and complete restoration process.

Contact your home insurance provider for more information and details concerning water damage experts.

Preventing Damage and Ensuring Safety During a Richmond Winter Storm

3/6/2015 (Permalink)

During Richmond winter storms and extreme periods of cold, your family and property are at-risk for many perils regardless of where you live.

Preventing Damage and Ensuring Safety During Winter Storms 

During Richmond winter storms and extreme periods of cold, your family and property are at-risk for many perils regardless of where you live. Keeping a calm and practical attitude during this time can minimize many of the dangers. For example, people often use space heaters and carelessly start fires. If the power goes off, your positive actions can reduce the negative consequences.

Safety Tips to Follow During Winter Storms

Staying informed can prevent many dangers, so listen to the radio or television for . Watch for changing conditions, and prepare for a siege if the weather warrants it. Start following your disaster or emergency plan to conserve resources. Reduce temperatures, cut heat to rooms that you don't need and move your pets to a place where they're sheltered. Dress in layers to save body heat. Other safety tips include: 

• Open cabinet doors around interior pipes to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
• If pipes freeze, open faucets to relieve pressure and prevent them from bursting. Remove insulation around the pipes, wrap them with rags and pour hot water over them until water begins to run.
• Stay indoors unless an extreme emergency arises.
• Use only safe methods of providing extra heat because fires are more common during storms. Make sure that kerosene heaters are ventilated, and always fill them outdoors for safety reasons.
• Let faucets drip during periods of extreme cold.
• If you must drive, let someone know where you're going and when you're expected and stick to the major roads and daylight driving.
• Wet clothing loses its insulating value, so replace wet things with dry garments.
• Keep exterior entries and unheated spaces closed.
• Check your roof after major snow and ice events to see whether snow and ice have accumulated in areas to create unsafe weight.
• If water begins to penetrate your home, turn off gas and electricity. When it's safe to begin removing water, remove damaged materials and as much standing water as possible before calling a remediation expert.

Even minor periods of cold can damage pipes and influence family members to try risky behavior. This fact is especially true in areas that don't usually experience cold weather. If you leave your home during inclement weather, set heat at a minimum of 55-degrees Fahrenheit to protect your possessions from the cold. If you plan to be away for some time, consider turning off your water and draining water heaters and hot tubs to prevent catastrophic leaks and flooding. Remove snow from window wells, stair wells and areas of the roof where snow accumulates, but don't melt the snow because it can cause water damage.

Safety is your foremost concern during a winter storm in Richmond, but you can also minimize the risks to your home by following safe practices during a storm. 

SERVPRO of Richmond Professionals provide fire and water damage restoration services. SERVPRO of Richmond proudly serves Chesterfield, Richmond, Henrico, Glen Allen, Midlothian, Short Pump, Petersburg, Colonial Heights, Chester, Hopewell, and surrounding areas. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or commercial structure caused by:

• Water Damage
• Fire Damage
• Disaster, storm and flood damage
• Mold Damage

24/7 Fire Damage Restoration Service * 24/7 Carpet Restoration Water Damage * 24/7 House Flooding Damage * 24/7 Mold Remediation *24/7 Bio-hazard Crime/Suicide Clean *24/7 Fire Restoration.

Chesterfield Water Damage - Preventing and Thawing Frozen Pipes

1/3/2015 (Permalink)

Protect your home in Richmond from water damage from frozen pipes.

Got frozen pipes and Chesterfield Water Damage? Blame hexagons.

Pipe Physics

The normal water molecule (H20) looks like a mom holding hands with two kids. When in the liquid state, these triangular molecules slide freely around each other, but when frozen, they rearrange themselves into a hexagonal lattice structure. By volume, water expands about nine percent when frozen.

Winter Headaches

That measly nine percent causes countless headaches when Father Winter comes knocking. Burst water pipes can rot out subfloors and damage ceilings – and problems only escalate. Once wet, untreated wood and carpet can mold and mildew, causing sickness and requiring renovation. Older pipes installed prior to the 1970s may leach toxins, like lead, when ruptured. Once damaged by major water leaks, a home may even lose its insurance eligibility.

A water supply pipe pumps water into the home; a sewer pipe flushes waste water to a municipal treatment facility. Between the two is a 3D labyrinth of pressurized water. Each one is at risk. If ice builds in a pipe, similar to plaque in an artery, backup pressures can rise to 3,000 psi. That is 75 times the pressure of a car tire. A 1/8-inch crack in a supply pipe can uncork 250 gallons of water every day.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

The best cure is prevention. Before Jack Frost comes to play, a homeowner should:

• Drain water from seasonal pool lines, outdoor hoses, garden drip lines, etc. Store the hoses and pipes appropriately.
• Insulate any remaining outdoor water lines to outbuildings, guest houses, and built-in jacuzzis.
• Caulk and seal window trim gaps, cracked door jams, dryer vents, and any other gaps around the home where cold air can infiltrate.
• Insulate pipes that run along exterior walls. Attics, crawl spaces, garages and basements often have little insulation, particularly if they are additions. Naked pipes should be covered with commercial sleeves, insulation wrap or UL-listed heat tape, but even one-fourth an inch of newspaper is better than crossed fingers.
• If needed, pipes can be relocated by a licensed plumber.

Preparing for the Worst

But what happens when the mercury plummets? What happens when, as in the winter of 2013-2014 in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, temperatures do not rise above zero degrees for 75 consecutive days? 

• Keep all exterior doors closed. Seal the garage. Barricade the patio. It’s a war, and the exterior doors are the front lines of the offense.
• Promote air circulation by opening cabinet doors, leaving doors cracked open, and let cold water drip from faucets served by exposed supply pipes.
• If leaving for the weekend, keep the thermostat temperature no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. If traveling long-term, shut off and drain the water supply system.

Thawing Frozen Pipes

But sometimes Murphy’s Law kicks in. Pipes freeze despite the homeowner’s best efforts. A sharp drop in water pressure can signal a plugged pipe and requires immediate attention.

• Pipes that are frozen but unruptured can be wrapped in hot, wet towels. But be aware that once frozen, a pipe is more likely to burst the next cold snap.
• If a frozen pipe restricts all flow, the main water supply valve should be shut and the faucets left open.
• Burst frozen pipes require a 911 plumbing call.
  
  

SERVPRO of Richmond is a 24/7 emergency water removal & flood clean up repair service company, Our technicians are highly trained and experienced with every Richmond water damage situation from sewage damage clean up, Richmond mold removal, Richmond smoke damage repair, Richmond fire damage repair, Richmond flooded basement, Richmond wet carpet, wet walls, Richmond water damage to carpet, Richmond basement water damage, flooded crawl space, sewer backup, sewage removal, mud removal, commercial water damage, restoration, house water damage, building water damage, hotel water damage, flooded building, crawl space water damage, crawl space sewage damage, pump out, dry out, flood water removal.

SERVPRO of Richmond Professionals provide fire and water damage restoration services. SERVPRO of Richmond proudly serves Richmond, Henrico, Glen Allen, Chesterfield, Midlothian, Short Pump, Petersburg, Colonial Heights, Chester, Hopewell, and surrounding areas. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or commercial structure caused by:

• Chesterfield water Damage
• Fire Damage Chesterfield
  
• Chesterfield food damage
• Mold Damage Chesterfield
  

We are expanding! SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico are now a part of the SERVPRO of Chesterfield family. We are excited RVA!

8/5/2014 (Permalink)

The Bahen Team at SERVPRO of Chesterfield is excited to announce we have acquired SERVPRO of Richmond and SERVPRO of Henrico. We look forward to working with homeowners and businesses all over RVA. Call us - You can expect the same quality and great service SERVPRO of Chesterfield has been providing since 1985. 

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Chesterfield Water Damage - Preventing and Thawing Frozen Pipes

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Wading Through Water Damage in Richmond

Preventing Damage and Ensuring Safety During a Richmond Winter Storm