Owning a home that is highly susceptible to wind damage puts you and your family at higher risk of major damage. Dealing with an injury or the possible financial burden of a deteriorating house is a difficult weight to carry. Because of this, it is imperative that you take the necessary steps to prevent it from possibly occurring.
CLEAR THE AREA OF ANY DEBRIS THAT COULD CAUSE FURTHER DAMAGE
Wind by itself is not all that dangerous to your home. The trouble comes when it blows any surrounding debris into the side of your house. Things such as rotting trees, branches, or even gravel can destroy your property if you are not careful. Removing these items from the area is an excellent way to nip any future problems in the bud. You may be hesitant to do this as removing trees from a property consumes both time and money; however, leaving it and putting your home at risk create the possibility of a bigger problem. Unfortunately, many homeowners fail to recognize this and end up dealing with the expensive damages left behind by the tree’s limbs.
SEAL ALL THE GAPS IN YOUR HOME
Sealing off the gaps and cracks in your home removes its vulnerability. These entry points allow wind and water to enter your home, possibly creating many other issues. Resealing the areas around your windows and doors with caulk will help prevent flooding and mold issues exacerbated by wind and moisture.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Storm Damage Repair questions in your home or business.
I am going OVER THE EDGE of the Bloomington-Normal Marriott Hotel & Conference Center on September 10, 2022, to support the kids in our community through the Boys & Girls Club of Bloomington-Normal and the Child Protection Network.
We Participated in this event last year and had so much fun! We encourage anyone whom is interested in participating to join or if you wish to see our team go OVER THE EDGE, feel free to donate!
Both organizations provide safety, support and guidance to thousands of kids every year. Help us keep these able to do what they are so great at doing!
Let's spend some day in the sun supporting an awesome cause!
SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac is proud of our sponsorship to several community organizations.
With the annual Normal Firefighters IAFF Local 2442 golf outing quickly approaching we want to remind everyone how easy it is to sign up!
Simply scan the QR code on their Facebook page flyer and it will take you to the sign up! Please share with any family or friends that like to golf and want to help out a great cause!
That's us....so is that.....yup we can do that....
Water Damage: It goes EVERYWHERE….and it DOESN’T CARE.
Just like everything in life, there are situations where it is important to call a professional. Here are some of the best examples of situations where professional help should be sought out and advice taken:
Moisture has gone from one unit/space to another unit/space:
There are times when one unit does not think water has gone into another space but the source should be addressed by a professional who will assess this and then come up with a strategy as to how to handle it. The professional will make appropriate recommendations based on type of water, how long it has been wet, if materials can be salvaged and more. This professional will advise on if further areas are affected and what they need to be done.
When you have identified microbial growth on any building surface or material:
You might find it on anything from walls or floors to cabinets and frequently the growth is noticed before a leak is detected. An educated and experienced technician can determine if it is related to plumbing, siding or roof failures, poor air circulation or other causes to then make recommendations as to how to best handle it.
Drain water backs up out of a toilet, sink or tub:
All drain water should be considered highly contaminated. Therefore, when it soaks into carpet or drywall it can have adverse health effects along with being a super fuel for other types of microbial growth. Most people assume that sewage is highly contaminated but any drain water is considered highly contaminated and just plain dangerous.
When you need help finding a leak/source of water:
Many times, people just think of plumbing when leaks occur yet when you are not sure where the water is coming from, a certified technician can help expose if something is coming from the roof, windows, siding or more. Additionally, they can help eliminate sources thus pinpointing the root cause. Next-the source has to be addressed before remediation and repair are completed. If this isn’t corrected-it’s possible to cause an issue all over again.
To assess the extent of a complex water-related incident: Don’t overlook ANYTHING.
Complex water related incidents can include many scenarios. Some examples are a mystery leak that is finally resolved and then discovered to have affected many other areas that are along the water lines. It is always best to err on the side of caution with having inspections done regularly and addressing any issue when it is small before it becomes a bigger issue.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Water Restoration questions in your home or business.
Make it a one stop shop. Can your mitigation team turn it right over to a restoration team?
Is Back On Track Possible?
A fire accident in a home or office space can be completely disastrous, and getting back on track from a fire incident is not as easy as it should be sometimes. The main reason for this is that we all see our homes as the safest place we know. A threat to our home is not something that can be taken lightly. Also, everything in it will have been carefully picked and chosen to your tastes, preference and memories. Seeing your belongings swept out by fire is heartbreaking.
Fire Disaster Reconstruction Services
Reconstruction services for fire accidents work on every facet of the damages that the structure sustains. There can be up to three different types of damage that normally comes from fire: smoke and soot, water from the hoses, and burnt objects and/or structures. The damage can be spread throughout the home even if only some areas have faced direct fire. There are actual areas that are affected that owners may never realize.
The Reconstruction Process in Detail
After a fire incident, reconstruction does not happen right away. Unless the flames have gutted out the home entirely, there is always a possible chance to repair. In fact, in many cases, repairs and reconstruction have saved people thousands of dollars. A team of professionals will have to be called in, and the structure as well as what can be salvaged will have to be assessed. At the same time a salvaging crew will be tasked with saving as many of the possessions in the house as possible. You will be shocked to know how much can actually be reused and saved from house fires.
If you compare the costs, you will get to know that the more of the structure you save, the less overall costs you will incur. Just make sure you always have at least one fire disaster reconstruction service company on speed dial. You never know when you or your friends may need it.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Fire Restoration questions in your home or business.
When do you need to replace your water affected furnace?
The recent heavy rains in both our area and areas in southern Illinois, have affected many homes and businesses. Amongst the other problems that this can cause, your furnace operation and safety to be compromised.
Making your furnace safe can be as simple as cleaning, and disinfecting the furnace. In more extreme circumstances you may have to replace the entire furnace system. The only way to be sure is to have a qualified licensed heating company perform a safety and efficiency inspection once proper water mitigation is complete.
Your furnace may be operating after the flooding waters recede, but be warned this does not mean it is safe to operate. Your furnace contains many opportunities for bacteria to grow. If the furnace is not properly disinfected by a professional-problems will continually show up. Safety controls may also have been affected by the flood waters, and excessive moisture.
The furnace components affected by the flood water will all have to be replaced. These items can include gas valve, and all safety controls, the air circulation components, and an ignition system. The heat exchanger can also start to exhibit rusting, and will require replacement. You should not attempt to operate the furnace without these items being inspected for safety. Safety and health are the most important considerations after a furnace is flooded. Yes, it may be necessary to replace your furnace after it has been flooded. The manufacturer's warranties will not apply to any of these items that need to be replaced. In fact most manufacturers will deny all future warranty claims after a flooded furnace incident. However, it may be helpful to contact your home insurance or your home warranty company-you may find coverage
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Water Restoration questions.
Do you know we can take care of all your commercial and residential needs?
When you rent out any property in central Illinois, your tenants expect a safe place to live or work. In addition to maintaining your property, you need to be ready for potential water loss.
Your first question will likely be: Are my renters responsible for any water damage?
In most cases they are not. As the landlord, it is your duty to keep the property’s plumbing in working condition. If the water damage is caused by a pipe, faulty appliances, HVAC units or a natural disaster, the landlord is typically responsible. In some cases the renter can be at fault for damage if their personal appliance causes the damage. In most cases the landlord is not responsible for any damage to the renters belongings. Make sure any rental agreements are clearly written and explained by both sides.
Signs of water damage to always watch for:
Because the landlord is responsible for most cases of water damage, it is important to be vigilant. As a landlord you probably already check your property at least once a year. During these inspections keep an eye out for these signs.
Changes in wall and ceiling surface texture: any bending or sagging of plaster or drywall is a sign of water damage. Look for bubbles or cracks that may indicate water. Clear water lines may not always be visible.
Odors: When water leaks behind walls it can often be slow enough that it is invisible. While you might not be able to see the damage, mold and mildew can grow causing odors. Mold can cause health effects, so it is important to contact a water restoration company to address both the water and mold.
High utility bills: If you or your tenant notice unusually high utility bills, it can be an indication of a hidden leak that needs to be addressed immediately. Those utility bills add up quickly.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Commercial Restoration questions.
Here at SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac, we pride ourselves on our product, our people and our communities we serve. We have worked hard all these years to make sure we have built both a strong reputation for exemplary service to our customers and our community.
It doesn't matter if it is the Boys and Girls Club of Bloomington/Normal, AFFI, Local Fire Departments, Local School districts/clubs or even just a lemonade stand-we are there. So many more organizations are part of our circle and we are so proud!!
Sometimes it's work, sometimes it's fun and other times it's our services. We do what we can, when we can.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any restoration/remediation question.
Don't let a wet or dirty floor mess your day up or make your business look unprofessional. Let the professionals Clean it up and get you back on track
Stone floors are a beautiful addition to any home. If you have stone floors in your house, you likely paid quite a bit more for them than you did for other flooring (or business). It’s important to take good care of that kind of investment, they can last a very long time!
While you likely do some routine maintenance on your stone floors, it’s ALWAYS wise to have them professionally cleaned as well. How often you do so depends on a few factors. One such is the condition of the floors and the other is how you use the rooms they are in. Regardless, you should have your stone floors cleaned professionally on at least an annual basis.
STAINS ARE NOT AS VISIBLE
If you have a white stone floor, you probably notice stains as often as on a hardwood floor or carpet. But chances are your stone floor is not white. Most all other hides stains, marks, and spills better, but that doesn’t mean you want discoloring and damage to build up over time. A professional cleaning will take care of the issues that are hard to spot with the naked eye.
YOU MAY NOT BE AS CAREFUL
Because many stone floor colors and patterns hide stains and marks so well, you may maintain them less than, say, a carpet. Maybe you’re more likely to walk around without wiping your feet. Perhaps you don’t clean it as routinely or thoroughly as your other floors. Getting a professional deep clean will help alleviate these issues. WATER DAMAGE can stain a stone floor and needs to be taken care of rather quickly as well.
PROS CAN DO MORE THAN CLEAN
If you hire a professional floor cleaner, they’re not just going to show up at your home to mop and sweep. They may use a pressure washer, which is probably not something you have access to. They can also polish, seal, and hone your floors, so they look more than just clean; they’ll look new as their natural color is restored.
If you have a stone floor that needs professional cleaning, SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac is here for you. We have more than 40 years of experience in professionally cleaning various surfaces for homes and businesses.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Water Damage or Cleaning Questions.
Don't let a wet or dirty floor mess your day up or make your business look unprofessional. Let the professionals Clean it up and get you back on track
Stone floors are a beautiful addition to any home. If you have stone floors in your house, you likely paid quite a bit more for them than you did for other flooring (or business). It’s important to take good care of that kind of investment, they can last a very long time!
While you likely do some routine maintenance on your stone floors, it’s ALWAYS wise to have them professionally cleaned as well. How often you do so depends on a few factors. One such is the condition of the floors and the other is how you use the rooms they are in. Regardless, you should have your stone floors cleaned professionally on at least an annual basis.
STAINS ARE NOT AS VISIBLE
If you have a white stone floor, you probably notice stains as often as on a hardwood floor or carpet. But chances are your stone floor is not white. Most all other hides stains, marks, and spills better, but that doesn’t mean you want discoloring and damage to build up over time. A professional cleaning will take care of the issues that are hard to spot with the naked eye.
YOU MAY NOT BE AS CAREFUL
Because many stone floor colors and patterns hide stains and marks so well, you may maintain them less than, say, a carpet. Maybe you’re more likely to walk around without wiping your feet. Perhaps you don’t clean it as routinely or thoroughly as your other floors. Getting a professional deep clean will help alleviate these issues. WATER DAMAGE can stain a stone floor and needs to be taken care of rather quickly as well.
PROS CAN DO MORE THAN CLEAN
If you hire a professional floor cleaner, they’re not just going to show up at your home to mop and sweep. They may use a pressure washer, which is probably not something you have access to. They can also polish, seal, and hone your floors, so they look more than just clean; they’ll look new as their natural color is restored.
If you have a stone floor that needs professional cleaning, SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac is here for you. We have more than 40 years of experience in professionally cleaning various surfaces for homes and businesses.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Water Damage or Cleaning Questions.
It was estimated in 2019, fire damage cost United States residents a startling $14.8 billion! Materials like PVC, vinyl siding, single-paned glass, and wood are susceptible to damage from extreme heat and water. A fire restoration contractor can help mitigate and possibly reverse these effects.
Let’s take a look.
7 Tips to Choose the Best Fire Restoration Contractor
If disaster has struck your home or commercial building, you need to prioritize finding an excellent fire restoration contractor quickly. Here are a couple tips to hire the best contactor that will get the job done right:
1. Look for a company that provides 24/7/365 emergency services
Fire damage will happen at any time. If your house catches fire at 1 a.m., you shouldn’t have to wait to get your property repaired. Instead of waiting around for hours, you can hire a fire damage restoration contractor that offers 24/7 services, like SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac. We provide prompt, emergency responses all day, every day.
2. Check your contractor’s credentials-always (and check reviews!)
When hiring a fire restoration contractor, ensure you select a contractor with the correct credentials. Make sure they are licensed, bonded, and insured to perform the necessary restoration work. If the contractor doesn’t have the proper credentials, they may not have the extensive training needed for fire restoration. Check for certificates from a trusted authority like the IICRC.
3. Find a contractor who works with insurance
A reputable fire restoration company will work with your home insurance company. After a fire, you most likely file an insurance claim. If you aren’t experienced, this process can get frustrating. A contractor can help alleviate the stress of filing a claim to get you the financial assistance you need.
The contractor can negotiate details with your insurance provider, such as the source and extent of the damage. A skilled contractor will ensure that no stone is left unturned.
4. Research the services they offer
Different fires require different types and levels of services. A company like SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac can offer comprehensive restoration services for fire, smoke and water damage, both for residential and commercial properties.
Some of the fire damage services provided are:
Smoke odor removal
Soot removal
Air duct cleaning
Content pack-out
Debris removal
Emergency board-up and tarping
Floor and carpet cleaning/restoration
Mold remediation and removal
Property reconstruction and restoration
Upholstery cleaning and restoration
Water damage cleaning and restoration
Commercial and Residential
Large Loss Services
We work on all types of commercial properties:
Churches and other religious buildings
Entertainment venues
Financial institutions
Healthcare facilities
Hotels
Industrial sites and factories
Office buildings
Restaurants
Retail centers
Schools and universities
Warehouse facilities
Many others
Full-service companies can mitigate damage that you may not have noticed before. They will address your property’s needs, no matter how complex the situation.
5. Make sure they meet industry standards
Quality restoration companies must abide by set industry standards. The two primary standards are:
BSR/IIRC S700 Standard for Professional Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration
BSR/IIRC S740 Standard for Professional Restoration of Fire and Smoke Damaged Personal Items
If your home has suffered water, mold, or any other damage, the correct restoration contractor will always follow other standards as well. Check that the contractors use state-of-the-art tools to repair your building. Commercial-grade equipment will provide the best results and ensure your safety.
SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac always abides by the necessary smoke, water, and fire damage standards to ensure we deliver the best services to all of our clients. Regardless of the size of the project, we want you to be satisfied with the results.
6. Ask for a quote and restoration plan
Your damage restoration contractor should always hand you a quote for their services. It should include the restoration plan and any other information about the timeline, payment, and company policies.
The company should also base this quote on an on-site inspection of the damage, and you will receive an accurate estimate. Once the contractors have completed the inspection, they should give you a restoration plan that outlines the process. It will detail the services they must perform and the estimated timeline. We want you to know exactly how we will perform our comprehensive services after a disaster.
7. Check the testimonials
Before trusting a company, ensure you check out the reviews and testimonials. While testimonials on the business’s website matter, these are often screened before getting posted. Instead, check out third-party reviews. Look for a company with an A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Also, consider reviews from websites like Google and Facebook.
Even better, ask around your local area for recommendations from your friends and family. See if people find the services reasonably priced and high-quality.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Commercial Business or Residential questions.
Storm damage occurs more often and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home or business. Heavy rain can cause flooding, powerful winds can cause roof damage and downed trees on your property as well as any other result of natural disaster. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm. Knowing you have a partner to help get your property back in order can help lessen the stress and make the process move quicker.
Take All Proper Safety Precautions
Heavy winds and rain can create an unlimited amount of physical hazards. These can include a collapse of roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth.
Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact a reputable property restoration company to help do basic tasks to secure your property and make it safe to use. If necessary, arrange for an alternative place for you and your family to live while your property is determined safe living conditions.
Photograph all of the Damage
If it is safe to move around your property, use your cellphone or a reliable camera to photograph the damage. This will make sure that you will have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure that you are fully compensated, accurately.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home or business immediately. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made. This adjuster will work with SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac on every step of your restoration process.
When a storm-related disaster strikes, it may seem overwhelming, but these steps can help you to begin the process of restoring your home or business, and your life, to normal.
SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac, we specialize in the remediation and restoration of homes and businesses that have suffered small or large loss from water, flood, wind, storm, fire damage, and smoke disaster.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Storm Damage Loss.
When you own an apartment or condominium complex, the last thing you want is to get a call notifying you about a fire on your property. Residential Building fires can be deadly and can move very swiftly - destroy your property. Keeping this in mind, it’s important that you understand your responsibilities when it comes to fires at your complex.
In this guide below, we will help you with a step-by-step overview. This will help give you the idea of what you should do.
1. Notify All of Your Tenants About the Situation and Help First Responders Account for All Tenants.
First things first, you’ll want to notify all of your tenants about the situation as soon as you can. This will ensure that they’re aware of the situation, and that your complex may be uninhabitable or even dangerous to enter for the time being.
You may also want to alert them about local resources to assist in the meantime. Services like the Red Cross and other non-profits, who may be able to help them secure temporary housing and food/clothing. Your local officials can help you with this and the cost of rehousing your residents will usually be covered by your insurance company, contact your insurance to know ahead of time the terms and provisions.
2. Try to Trace the Cause of the Fire with Professionals
You’ll likely work with the fire department to do this. It’s so important to determine the cause of the fire for insurance purposes, and to understand the proper next steps to take after a complex fire. Common causes of fires include but are not only - cooking, candles lit, and electrical issues, or even things like smoking inside.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company Right Away to Establish a Claim
It doesn’t matter what caused the fire, you need to contact your insurance company right away to let them know about the incident. They’ll likely need to send investigators and/or an adjuster to your location. You’ll want to file for casualty loss right away, and begin the process as soon as possible-this will help get your renters back into their homes.
4. Work with Your Insurance to Find a Fire Restoration Company
A fire at your complex won’t result in a total loss of the building, necessarily. Minor fires may only result in damage to a few units or rooms in a unit. However, you may not be able to rent these units or have a unit occupied until the damage is restored.
We recommend working with your insurer to find a quality and reliable local fire restoration company like SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac to help rebuild the property, mitigate smoke damage. SERVPRO can also ensure that it’s habitable and safe for residents once again. You may need to wait a little while until the process of restoring your building can be completed, but being proactive and having a fire restoration company lined up will help you minimize lost revenue. Call before there are any issues to know how we can help in these situations.
SERVPRO can also assist with:
Documentation of All of the Damage to Your Property
Secure the Property from Vandals, Trespassers
Begin Restoring Your Property as Soon as Possible
Once you’ve gotten the all-clear from local authorities, we can begin restoring your property. Your insurance company will help you through the policy, and your fire restoration company shouldl take all the necessary steps to remove damaged materials, restore your units, and ensure that your apartment complex is habitable once again.
Follow This Guide – Know What to Do in Case of a Fire
A fire occurring on your property is never a good thing. However, if you know what to do after a fire at your complex, you’ll ensure that you take the right steps to restore your property quickly.
This is where the professionals at SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac come in. In our For larger Commercial Projects, we can call in our Large Loss crews to help!
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Fire Restoration questions.
Keeping Businesses Operational during any Property Disaster
Is Your Small Business Fire Safe?
No one ever wants to imagine the real possibility of a fire in their home or small business. Sadly these fires happen every day all over the country. The best anyone can do is to practice prevention and preparedness for when a fire occurs. As a company that offers restoration services in central, our team at SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac has seen the tragic results of fires for decades.
Are Your Smoke Alarms Working? Test Regularly
The U.S. Fire Administration suggests having smoke alarms in bedrooms, outside sleeping areas, near any source of heat, and on every floor of your home or business. Test your alarms at least once a month, change batteries once a year, and keep up to date on local regulations. Contacting your local fire department will help keep up to date as well.
Is Your Electrical System Code Compliant?
Even if you don’t know much about the electrical codes in your area, you can probably recognize if something is wrong with the wiring in your home or business. When in doubt, call an electrician to inspect any problem areas. Insurance companies may require inspections of businesses on electrical systems depending on the type of business as well. As well, keep up with local regulations in order to avoid future problems.
Is Your Homeowner’s Insurance, Renter’s Insurance, or Small Business Insurance Up to Date?
The repair and restoration process after a fire is much more straightforward if you have insurance and are familiar with your policy. SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac works directly with your insurance company to get your property repaired and back to pre-disaster order. Know your policy prior to anything occurring and that will help the process go a lot quicker.
If you have experienced a significant fire in your home or business, you will have to repair the fire damage and most likely smoke and water damage. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has years of experience repairing homes. Our team of experts can handle smoke damage restoration and storm damage restoration in Central Illinois.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Restoration questions.
How to Best Prepare Your Business for the Unexpected
When a disaster strikes, it can strike anywhere at any time and without any warning. It is essential to have a plan for responding to a fire, flood, tornado, or snowstorm at your home or business. Living in the Midwest, you never know what you are going to get-or when!
As restoration contractors, SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac has helped numerous families and businesses recover after disasters. Part of the restoration process is determining the initial cause of a disaster and guiding to make sure this is resolved (if we can). It is unfortunate to find out how many disasters could have been prevented or mitigated successfully-causing less damage.
If you own a small business with retail space, office space, or workshop, disaster preparedness is often significantly different than it is with your home. With that in mind, consider the following before something goes wrong.
1 – Create a detailed Emergency Response Plan
Meet with your team/team leaders and create a plan to respond to any possible disaster: fire, flood, tornado, snowstorm or anything else relevant. Responding to an emergency in a quick manner often reduces the severity of the damage. Write your plan down and communicate it clearly to all employees-and have it available.
2 – Ensure Emergency Response Tools are Always Easily Accessible and Functional
Everything from Fire extinguishers, first aid kits, defibrillators, fire hoses, and other emergency equipment should be in good condition and accessible to all employees at all times. Your employees should be trained to use your emergency equipment as well and refreshed on them periodically.
3 – Review Your Insurance Coverage Regularly
It is best to understand your insurance coverage before a disaster occurs. Have you purchased new equipment that isn’t covered by your old policy? Make sure you have the right coverage.
4 – Have All of Your Buildings and Safety Equipment Inspected Regularly
It is best to know something is wrong with your building and safety equipment (like fire sprinklers) before they fail. If your inspector finds a problem, don’t wait to have it fixed. An easy couple hundred dollar fix could save you thousands of dollars.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Commercial Business questions.
Ozone is a colorless unstable and toxic gas that chemically reacts with particles that it comes into contact with. These are both in the air and on surfaces. What fire does not destroy it often ruins with a smell that permeates everything. After all visible particulates have been removed, an ozone machine can be a great help.
How Does this even Work?
Ozone works by attaching itself to other molecules, chemically changing their structure to create non-offensive molecules. This eliminates the smell. It destroys any bacteria and spores that can cause unpleasant smells. The ozone molecules attach to the outer shell of the cells of bacteria and spores, causing it to break down and die away.
When using an ozone machine to remove odors, the stronger the odor – with more odor causing molecules- requires more ozone to remove the smell. There always needs to be enough ozone to react with all of the odor-causing molecules it encounters.
This will require either a longer ozone treatment, or higher concentrations of ozone (a larger ozone generator). If necessary, we can run the Ozone Machine a second time.
Ozone works so well because it can get where other cleaning products can’t. This can include air, walls, ductwork, ceilings, carpet fibers, the gaps between floor boards, and any other small space you can think of.
Is There a Downside?
Ozone use is strictly regulated. Low levels of ozone can be found in air purifiers and are not harmful. But when you have a smoke filled home, the amount of ozone needed to do the job has to be monitored by a professional to avoid damage to human and animal respiratory systems.
This is where the professionals at SERVPRO Of Bloomington/Pontiac come in. In our facility we can clean and ozone treat all your belongings. For larger Commercial Projects, we can call in our Large Loss crews to help!
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Fire Restoration questions.
When it's not just a fire or water. When it's someone's whole life turned upside down.
Dark times lead to tough decisions
At SERVPRO, we have seen some of the worst situations to homes and businesses. While we are always ready for the structure remediation and repair-you never are 100% prepared to help the people affected. But we work very hard to be there for our clients.
Our crews work fast to work on getting your home or business back to working order, back to pre-or better than pre-disaster condition. What we can't automatically step into, is fixing the human toll-but we would never shy from being that stable person during the time of disaster.
Here at SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac, it is our goal to be your choice. We want to be the one you rely on to take care of your property, while showing the utmost compassion for the lives we interact with. We are leaders in our community, we are leaders in our industry, but we also strive to be the pillar you look to for guidance. We are here to help ease the impact of of these traumatic experiences.
Don't take the choice of a restoration/ reconstruction company lightly. You will be heavily involved in the day to day, know who you are working with. Know what they are capable of helping you with every aspect the project.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any questions.
Fire is one of the most devastating situations to a business and commercial property. It causes billions of dollars in property loss and damage as well as personal injuries and fatalities every year. This is why knowing what to do before and immediately after a fire, as well as organizing a commercial fire damage restoration plan can minimize further damage and costs.
Every problem has a cause and many of the fires that come up in commercial buildings are through something that is unnoticeable. By knowing the most common causes of commercial fires, you can take all proper precautions to protect your business, employees, and property.
Let’s take a look at some of these common causes
Cooking-related incidents at Restaurants. These are not the only establishments that have encountered destructive fires. Healthcare facilities, educational institutions, offices, and stores have also experienced fires due to cooking-related incidents.
Heat equipment. Many commercial buildings require concentrated heat depending on the climate or project requirements. You need to regularly check boilers, furnaces, and other heating-related equipment to avoid any overheating. You also need to have your HVAC systems maintained by professionals regularly and replace old HVAC appliances.
Electrical connections. Check for old, faulty, or loose electrical connections-everywhere. Hire a specialist to check on your electrical and lighting equipment regularly and repair/replace.
Smoking. Discarded lit cigarettes are serious fire hazards. You may designate smoking areas in open spaces away from the building and provide proper disposal units for used cigarettes and cigars.
Arson. The deliberate misuse of a heat source, as well as many other- It is considered arson if there is a willful and malicious intent of setting a fire.
What exactly is a Fire Restoration Plan?
After a fire is put out, several critical concerns will remain. Business owners face huge costs in property damage and may even face more costs without a proper fire damage restoration plan. As a business owner, you may be asking yourself, “What is a fire restoration plan?”
A commercial fire damage restoration plan through SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac organizes the process of returning a fire-damaged property to a preloss condition.
It can be terribly complicated and overwhelming. This is especially since business owners may still be recovering from the shock of such significant losses from the fire. Affected business owners can be ready with a plan that includes Matterport scans, phone numbers, details and anything you could need-all ready ahead of time. Since restoration activities need to be done as soon as possible to minimize further damage, working SERVPRO would help this process move quicker. Restoration specialists can start right away with the recovery process to help bring the business back to its regular operations.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any Pre-planning questions.
What will your insurance company cover and are you ready?
Does The Insurance Cover Your Water Damage?
Water damage sets you back so badly if you were not prepared for it accordingly. For this very reason, you need to ensure that you are covered. While you can get water damage insurance, certain situations could not be covered by your insurance.
To help you navigate this a bit, here is everything you may need to know about water damage insurance coverage.
What is Water Damage Insurance Anyway?
Water damage is insurance money that can be paid out when your house is affected by significant water damage. It helps deal with the repairs/replacement and reconstruction. While companies like SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac come in and help remove water, dry out the property and restore your home. Insurance companies ensure there are enough funds for the home's full restoration.
There are situations where insurance companies will typically pay for more of the damages caused to your home.
Accidental leaks- Insurance typically will take care of leaks from pipes and broken washers that cause some water damage.
Burst pipes- Water damage from burst pipes due to frozen pipes and any other incident are typically covered
Damage from fires- If the water was used to put out a fire and caused damage to your property, the damage is typically be insured.
Roof leaks- If there was water damage to the interior of your house because of a roof leak, these are typically covered. There are situations where someone else is liable-contact your agent.
Water damage from storms like heavy and sudden rain, sometimes is covered and may depend on the situation-contact your agent to know.
Ice dam- Insurance will cover ice dams that form in your gutter in cold months. If these ice dams result from neglect, you will not get them fixed.
Be sure to review your policy and contact your agent to know ahead of time what is and is not covered-that way things can be added accordingly prior to any situations. Knowing what is covered in water damage will ensure you stay vigilant for your home.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for more information and to answer any water damage situation.
We continue to support our local Boys and Girls Club with their annual Golf Outing. Our Marketing Representative Kara kept an eye out the longest drive and owner Jake took a lucky group out for a fun afternoon of golf.
Corporate sponsorship is important part of our position in the community. Outreach keeps us connected, keeps us humble and keeps our community strong. Children grow will be the future of our businesses and our leaders.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac swings away with the Boys and Girls Club of McLean County
We continue to support our local Boys and Girls Club with their annual Golf Outing. Our Marketing Representative Kara kept an eye out the longest drive and owner Jake took a lucky group out for a fun afternoon of golf.
Corporate sponsorship is important part of our position in the community. Outreach keeps us connected, keeps us humble and keeps our community strong. Children grow will be the future of our businesses and our leaders.
Is there a difference between Mitigation and Restoration? YES!
Small business owners and homeowners already have a lot to deal with and dealing with a disaster in the workplace/home is the last thing an owner wants to do. Despite all the best efforts and prep, you cannot prevent all types of incidents from occurring.
If a major incident causes excessive damage to your building, you will need to rely on skilled professionals to cleanup company such as SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac. There are two major components of this process: mitigation and restoration.
Advantages of Calling in the Pros
Professional crews offer the following:
Experience and expertise cleaning up after storm or other water damage
The right tools and equipment to clean up and mitigate the damage so restoration to your building can begin
Timely response and quick results from our professional crew
There are situations where minor damages can be handled in house. Just make sure the situation is handled correctly from the start, this will avoid further complications down the road! Take a moment to make sure you truly understand the situation and how it needs to properly be handled.
Understanding what Mitigation means
Disaster response companies will first need inspect the affected area(s) and formulate a proper plan. Once this has been approved by you, mitigation can begin. Depending on the actual size and scope of the damage to your building, our technicians can complete the mitigation process in a matter of hours, or it may possibly take several days. Crews will remove all water from the affected area and any water-damaged materials which cannot be salvaged by our drying process. We then, use high-powered fans and dehumidifiers, our team members will totally dry the affected area. After the cleanup and mitigation is complete, SERVPRO will sanitize all surfaces to kill any remaining bacteria and cleanup the mitigated area.
Understanding the Restoration process
Unlike the mitigation process, the restoration effort typically takes much more time. The restoration is the entire process of restoring your building to the pre-disaster condition/state. Restoration includes rebuilding and replacing whatever was removed during the mitigation process. This can often include rebuilding structural aspects such as the roof, ceilings, walls, or even floors. It also includes repairing or replacing drywall that was torn out and refinishing it and replacing flooring or installing new carpet. None of the restoration will begin until crews have completed all aspects of mitigation, including the drying process.
In catastrophic flooding and storm damage, the company may have to rebuild your building from scratch. If you choose the right cleanup company, you can feel good about returning to your building and getting back to business. The company you choose will help make your place safe once more, even after the most severe damage.
Trust the experience and expertise of the team at SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac to take care of your business because we are Ready For Whatever Happens.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac at 309.8247.7500, 24/7/365. For your complete Mitigation-Restoration needs.
7 key things to consider when looking for a Restoration Company
When a disaster strikes, it can be an overly stressful and highly a costly experience. Choosing the wrong restoration company can make a significantly add to that stress and do more harm than good.
Overcharging, unnecessary delays, poor workmanship, as well as risky behavior are common problems in the current industry. But being aware of the right things to look for, you can save yourself from considerable headaches and added expense.
Here are 7 key things to consider when choosing a restoration company:
Are they licensed, insured, certified and have positive reviews?
There are several reasons to only work with licensed and insured restoration companies. For one, licensed and insured professionals can legally address your building emergency, freeing you from legal and financial liabilities. If things go wrong with an unlicensed or an uninsured restoration company, you’re vulnerable to fraudulent charges and lawsuits.
One certification to verify is IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification). Additional certifications expand the types of emergencies that the restoration provider is equipped to respond to. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac lists all current certifications.
Are they available 24/7?
Emergencies are unpredictable. How dare they right?
But when disaster strikes, you need the team that’s prepared to respond at any time of day and on any day of the week. A company that offers round the clock servicing is a must. How long is their average response time? Part of availability is their communication. You will want to be kept in the loop with the timeframe for the situation, what will be needed of you, and how your property will be impacted. In emergency situations, time is essential and proper communication goes a long way to make sure things run as on task as possible.
Do they have a good reputation in the community?
Online reviews can make us skeptical. Are they paid or are they authentic? It can be hard to tell. So, look at more than just reviews- Have they been serving the local community long and do they do much for the local community? Does anyone local want to recommend them? How long have they been in business and what type of resources do they have? And what do they specialize in?
These are all questions to consider. Of course, doing a estimate comparison is always a smart course, but remember, cheaper is not always better.
Don’t assume that the cheapest estimate is the best deal. In fact, going with a cheaper but less reputable restoration company may cost you much more in the long run. Quality and experience should be paramount.
Are their technicians trained to handle multiple issues at once?
An emergency can uncover other potential issues that need to be addressed. A call for water damage may also require mold remediation and/or asbestos abatement. In most cases, a building restoration company will need to bring their work to a halt and call in another team to handle the new issue. This adds cost and delays to a project. Look for a building restoration company that has a fully cross-trained technicians that are equipped to address any situation they come across.
Are they taking measures to protect their clients from COVID-19?
The SARS-CoV-2 virus is extremely contagious and is responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic that has taken the lives of millions around the globe. Even during building emergencies, every precaution should be taken to keep occupants safe from potential infection.
Ask your building restoration company what protocols they are taking to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Our staff is educated on protocols on protecting clients and themselves. A building restoration company that is dedicated to keeping their clients safe while they perform their work will be happy to answer these questions for you.
Is it Local? What do they do for the community?
What is the difference if the company is local or nationwide? Sometimes not much-sometimes a large difference. For SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac, we have the benefit of both. Our franchise is locally owned and staffed but has the benefit of a national brand. We can service all size project and all types of damages-and know we have a strong team behind us if we need more. We take great pride in our local outreach and involvement in numerous local groups. Knowing that keeping our community strong, keeps our business strong-this helps everyone grow!
Do they communicate?
When preparing to hire a company-watch for their response to you and ask others how their communication was. Communication is key to a successful demolition of damage. It is also key to putting it all back together. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac strives to keep an open line of communication from start to finish-you need to know what is happening and when. It helps keep the project on track and removes any confusion that may occur.
It Pays to Ask the Right Questions.
Choosing the right building restoration and emergency recovery partner doesn’t have to be a difficult process. With the right research and questions prepared, you’ll be able to pick a company that has the experience, equipment, and expertise that will meet your needs and give you peace of mind you deserve.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac today with any questions you may have or for any services you may need!
We look for the sunshine in any storm-why can't we also be ready for the storm to find the sunshine faster?
Sometimes a quote the infamous American writer, Mark Twain fits best:
“In the spring I have counted one hundred and thirty-six different kinds of weather inside of four-and-twenty hours.”
In Illinois-we know this all too well!
While 136 may have been a bit much, spring weather can be very unpredictable. Changing from sunshine to storms within a single, day even a couple of hours. 2022 is evolving to be one of the most active and dangerous spring severe weather seasons. Make sure you and your business are always prepared for the varying conditions and their potential threats.
For instance: during a spring storm, your business is at risk from the following situations,
Power Outages
Communication Disruption or Delays
Transportation Delays
Employee Absence for a variety of reasons
Damage to Facility/Equipment
Planning for spring weather and unknown risks is the same as planning for any other severe weather event. Use the guidelines below to ensure your safety and minimal business disruption, allow SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac to be your ONE STOP SHOP for all things start to finish!
Monitor any Warning:
Monitor all local weather alerts on the radio, TV, and Internet. Social media is growing quickly to be a great method for tracking the news but only rely on reputable sources.
Seek Out Closest Shelter:
Always have an exit strategy prepared. Know how to get out of your area if evacuations are required and know where to cover. (Keep this posted at all times)
Make sure everyone within your company property is aware of your emergency preparedness plan, and that drills are practiced regularly. Hence, the response in an event is second-nature to everyone.
Have Back-Up with a Back-Up:
In case of a power failure, which is likely during a heavy storm, have on hand a backup generator and fuel to minimize downtime and continue to run necessary equipment. Have a way to contact emergency personnel if required.
Always backup your digital files on your computers on a regular basis. All copies should also be stored in an alternative safe location.
Perform Regular Inspections:
Thoroughly inspect the exterior and interior of your facility, as well as your equipment. Knowing that everything is functioning is required for proper day-to-day functioning but also for an emergency situation.
Restock Your Emergency Kits & Check Your Smoke Detectors Properly:
Ensure your emergency kits are all properly stocked and ready. Items to include Flashlights (with extra batteries), blankets, clothing, water, non-perishable food, first aid kit, and important documents and files (insurance, medical information, etc.) you may need to stay away from your business for several days. Also, if you haven’t done so recently, check the batteries in your smoke detector as well as make sure they are up to local code. This is for your home or business.
As you can see, the plan above is similar to all plans for a severe weather event. Just remember, once a warning is issued, you don’t normally have much time to prepare – So, take action now to be ready.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here for your Disaster Restoration/Reconstruction needs. Our staff is trained on exactly how to repair damage issues and get your home or business back to the space you need.
How important is it to choose the correct Restoration Company when experiencing a fire, flood, or another disaster?
First, it is stressful. How to choose the right restoration company SHOULDN’T be. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac knows that losing your home or business, even having it damaged in such an event, is traumatic. Given every emotion experienced in such a situation and so quickly, it can be difficult to know who to turn to. This should help you decide what steps to take towards putting your home and life back together.
Next, it is imperative to choose only qualified and experienced restoration contractors or companies. This will help alleviate the stress during this process, not add to it. All restoration companies should listen closely to you, keep an open line of communication, and guide you through the entire restoration process. The truth is, they don’t always. Our goals are to always keep that line of communication open. From our fantastic office staff to our crew that will deliver your personal items back once the reconstruction/restoration is complete. The entire process should always be seamless and clear.
The following questions will help you sort out what a restoration contractor or company must be able to do for you-or at least give some guidance.
1-How much experience do they have working with insurance companies?
SERVPRO has successfully completed work for thousands of clients, should be very familiar with various carriers. We thoroughly understand the policies and required operating procedures that will ensure each restoration claim is paid. If there is ever any question, our staff works with adjusters to make sure any confusion is corrected.
2-Should you choose someone you know (family or friend)?
Maybe you have a family member or friend who is a general contractor or who works in the construction business and think it might be a good idea to consider them for your remodeling and construction. Sometimes yes, Sometimes no.
Unless they are genuinely experienced in restorations following a disaster, it is probably not a good idea. Additionally, the restoration process is incredibly stressful and this could put a strain on your relationship. It may even cost you more money in the long run if they don’t truly know what they are doing. These are just things to always keep in mind.
3-Should you consider the contractor or company who built your home or business originally?
Your home or business was probably originally built by a general contractor or construction company. While they are great choices in most building situations-especially yours, in restoration, they are often are unfamiliar with an insurance restoration process. This is an entirely different animal. The type of work required, such as mold remediation, water damage restoration, fire and smoke damage, and many other specialized work items are often unusual for them to manage.
Companies that work specifically on restoration projects, such as SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac, are trained and experienced in the work required-following strict industry standards.
4-Could, not a cleaning company do all the work?
When there has been a fire or flooding, some people wonder if the clean-up could simply be handled by a cleaning service, after all the smoke has cleared and the water has dried. Unfortunately, this type of damage goes well beyond superficial cleaning. Microscopic toxins and particulates are found in the walls and often in substructures. This can cause hazardous mold and related health conditions if not adequately treated in a time-related manner.
If you are in need of a proper restoration company, call us at SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac. We can help you through whatever restoration work you need and the reconstruction project. We can make the process as stress-free as possible.
When disaster strikes, know who to call. SERVPRO is ready 24/7/365
Winter Storm Checklist
Are you ready for any type of winter storm that hits? Storms are changing rapidly and affecting people far differently. Is your home as ready as you are? SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac wants to make sure our clients and our community have every tool at their disposal. We are always ready and here to help when disaster strikes. We can help get your life back to pre-disaster.
In order to help be ready-use some of these tips, tricks and helpful fyi’s to be ready:
*Make A Plan: Be ready BEFORE any sort of Storm hits. Plan ahead. If you are in an area prone to winter weather, hurricanes, heavy rain, etc.-be sure to create a disaster plan for your family.
*Prepare Your Home and Your Car(s):
Weatherproof your home
-Insulate any water lines that would run along exterior walls. This is so your water supply will be less likely to freeze.
-Caulk and weather-strip all doors and windows.
-Insulate walls and the attic.
-Install storm or thermal-pane windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside.
-Repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on your home or other structure during a storm.
-Have your chimney or flue inspected each year. If you want or need to use your fireplace-make sure it is ready.
-Install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector. These protect those in your home when trouble does strike.
Create an emergency car kit.
It is best to avoid traveling, but if travel is necessary, keep the following in your car:
-Cell phone, portable charger, and extra batteries
-Items to stay warm such as extra hats, coats, mittens, and blankets
-Windshield/Ice scraper
-Shovel (Portable)
-Battery-powered radio with extra batteries
-Flashlight with extra batteries
-Water and snack food
-First aid kit with any necessary medications and a pocket knife
-Tow chains or rope
-Tire chains/Ice slippers
-Canned compressed air with sealant for emergency tire repair
-Cat litter or sand to help tires get traction, or road salt to melt ice
-Booster cables with fully charged battery or jumper cables
-Hazard or other reflectors
-Bright colored flag or help signs, emergency distress flag, and/or emergency flares
-Road maps
-Waterproof matches and a can to melt snow for water
Steps that need to be taken BEFORE the storm hits
*Listen to your local weather forecasts and re-check your supplies
Do you know what is hidden in your gutters?
Surprise!!
Prepare your home for spring weather and storms
We can’t stop mother nature. No matter how much we try, no matter how much we prepare-she still wins. The difference is-being prepared helps to minimize damage.
Springtime weather reminders
Let it flow. Let it flow!!
Remove fall and winter debris from your gutters, drains, and downspouts. This allows heavy rains to flow freely off your roof and away from your home. Be sure that downspouts are secure and that water is draining well away from your home and not toward your foundation. Add extensions if they are necessary.
Trim the trees. Hire professionals-Watch for Power lines!
Prune saggy limbs and branches so they don't snap off in a windstorm and land on your home or a power line. This can cause fire and or water damage. This could even potentially injure someone(s) in your home.
Check the pump(s).
If your home has a sump pump or two, test them to make sure they are clean and operable and that the outflow is draining properly. Consider using a battery-powered backup sump pump as the secondary. This will help to keep the system working if the power goes out. Furthermore, an automatic standby generator can ensure your sump pump and other electrical systems continue to run during power outages.
Stow your gear or lock’m down!
When strong winds are forecast, secure patio furniture, and other yard items or put them in your garage or a shed so they don't become dangerous projectiles. It also saves from having to replace items.
Cover up and close it up…
Close and secure storm shutters if your home has them. Keep blinds and shades drawn and tape or tack window coverings around the edges to help protect you from broken, flying glass. Tie thick blankets over vehicles that are exposed to the elements to diminish damage from hail (if they are outside).
If power outages are common in your area, prepare an emergency kit and keep it in a central location in your home along with a plan. Make sure everyone in your household is familiar with the plan.
And when that limb breaks and puts a hole in the kitchen-SERVPRO has the team to help put it back.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here for your Storm Damage needs. Our staff is trained on exactly how to fix your issue and get your home back to the safe and beautiful space you want.
Call us today at 309-827-7500 or visit our website at www.SERVPRObloomingtonpontiac.com.
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Did you know that your Sump Pump can Freeze up? Do you know what happens when it does?
How to Prevent the Sump Pump Line from Freezing
When the sump pump discharge hose freezes, your sump pump has to work harder. This can be the result of the heat and may fail completely as a consequence of overheating. The next time water builds up in your sump basin, this could be problematic for your home. Follow these precautions to avoid your sump pump line from freezing and flooding.
Sump Pump Maintenance Tips:
Outside of your house, make sure the sump pump discharge line is sunken in the ground or raised above grade at a downward angle. To protect the pipe from freezing, bury it at least five inches below the frost line (the maximum depth of ground below which the soil doesn’t freeze).
Connect a freeze-resistant hose to the end of the discharge hose. Discharge water at least 20 feet from the foundation. Use a smooth, rigid hose to ensure there is no place for water to accumulate. Water in pipes that are too straightened is more prone to freeze-this is a detail many are not aware of.
To keep the discharge and intake sections of the sump pump from freezing, insulate them and the pipe connecting the two. Cover the outside pipe with anything that won’t block the pump but will block the weather. Don’t put any anti-freeze in the sump pump that's a bigger problem.
Check your sump basin and test the sump pump from time to time to ensure that it is in good working order.
If your sump pump pipe is frozen, use portable heaters to thaw it. Don’t use a blow torch to melt the line because you risk hurting yourself or damaging the property. If you can’t thaw the hose on your own, turn off the sump pump and call a professional plumber.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here for your water needs. Our staff is trained on exactly how to fix water damage issues and get your home back to the space you need.
What can your cabinets handle? Do you know what's lurking?
How can you tell if there is water damage inside your cabinets?
The kitchen is the heart of any home. Your bathroom is often the sanctuary. Both rooms have several plumbing connections and built-in cabinets. These cabinets could be wooden or composite. They can be painted, stained, or even open shelves. But if your cabinets are damaged from any leak, you’ll have to make sure they are repaired or they will need to be replaced.
And it’s a HUGE investment.
Kitchen cabinet costs range widely. This could be anywhere from $100 to more than $500 per linear foot. Example: For a typical 10-by-10-foot kitchen, the national average to replace or install cabinets is around $5,000 to $6,000! Are you ready? That’s why we try to help property owners to be mindful of proper drying and maintenance of their cabinetry.
Even a very small amount of water could cause them to swell, split or ruin MDF. For solid wood cabinets -the damage could be expensive as well. The key to fixing water-damaged cabinets is to identify the damage first, remove the water and dry them out completely next and assess repair needs.
But what are you looking for?
Visible Signs of Any Water Damage
SERVPRO water damage restoration experts recommend you familiarize yourself with the signs of water damage anywhere in your home. A small splash on a cabinet surface will simply evaporate quickly-harmless. The concern comes from an extensive amount of time, when moisture sits in an absence of sunlight and/or ventilation. Different cabinet materials show water damage in very different ways. MDF cabinets will absorb moisture and swell, this causes instability in the material. Shortly after this happens, your kitchen cabinets might bubble and the veneer might peel off. Worst case: the entire exposed edge may crumble to dust.
Cabinet Water Damage When NON-Visible
One very obvious sign that wood cabinets have been water damaged is a dark stain. A closer inspection is that they are losing their finish or sheen and then look deeper. When a wood cabinet has been waterlogged, moisture will affect paint, veneer, and metal handles. And could even start to show mold.
When bases warp, the doors and drawers won’t close well – causing more issues.
Follow these signs and hints; have the water damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac fix the water problem and repair/replace your cabinets.
Is There A Moldy Stench in the Cabinet Area?
Especially in the cabinets under your sink- you may smell the “mildew” odor. It’s earthy, funky, and just plain nasty. Trust your nose-they never lie. Look for any discoloration and sometimes a fuzzy and mottled area. Fix the leak-then fix the Cabinet.
Can I Just Paint Over the Damage-There is a Thing for that Right?
Painting wood cabinets is no different than painting any other solid wood surface. Prep and painting properly should produce a beautiful product. But laminate kitchen cabinets are much more difficult.
As long as the water did not delaminate the top layer from its base material, you can leave the cabinets as they are before your paint. But if the base were damaged, the coverup is only a temporary fix. Replacement is about it. Cabinet refacing falls between a total replacement of cabinets and a high-end paint job. Professional refacing involves replacing old cabinet doors and drawer fronts. But if the structure of the cabinet has been exposed to water, changing the front won’t fix the problem.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here for your water needs. Our staff is trained on exactly how to fix your water issue and get your home back to the safe and beautiful space you want.
Call us today at 309-827-7500 or visit our website at www.SERVPRObloomingtonpontiac.com.
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There is a large number of problems associated with mold exposure. To ensure your family remains safe, you need to get your home professionally inspected and remediated if necessary. Here are five mistakes that can lead to mold growth.
FAILING TO FIX SMALL LEAKS
Some homeowners tend to ignore smaller leaks. However, even just a small drip behind under a sink can quietly cause your water bill to climb and fungus to grow. When it comes to repairing plumbing leaks, the best approach is to avoid procrastinating. Always fix the leak before repairing/remediating the damage. Further moisture could be trapped in newly repaired finishings.
NEVER OPENING YOUR WINDOWS LEADS TO TROUBLE
People tend to keep their windows shut throughout the year. They go from heat to air without a fresh breeze in the home. Although technology has advanced over the years, cracking your windows is still among the best ways to ventilate your home. To deter mold spores from developing, you need to increase circulation and exchange air. Even during the winter, it’s important to allow fresh air to come inside. Throw those windows open on a nice day-let it in.
TOO MUCH MOISTURE IN THE BATHROOM
Your bathroom is a breeding ground for mold and mildew-eww. This is why you must keep moisture to a minimum and keep it clean. After stepping out of the shower, be sure to hang up your damp towels and regularly clean your mats. Airing out the bathroom is just as important. To be on the safe side, allow the ventilation fan to circulate for at least 20 minutes after adding moisture to the air with a shower. Be on the lookout for drips and leaks!
NEGLECTING SPILLS
It’s a fact that clean homes are less likely to experience mold problems. Carpet spills can definitely foster the growth of fungi. Liquids can take a lot longer to dry than you may think. Make it a point to wipe up spills as soon as possible. If you have a little extra money, invest in a vapor steam cleaner for sanitizing your carpets. You won’t have to worry about any damp residue being left behind.
NOT PROPERLY DRYING A MOISTURE AFFECTED AREA
The dishwasher flooded and water-filled your kitchen. You cleaned it up and fixed the dishwater issue-no problem? Possibly. If the flooring has not be allowed to properly dry with proper circulation-mold will begin to grow in areas you may not see. In these cases, it can never hurt to have the area inspected after you have repaired the issue and cleaned up the mess. This could avoid a larger issue down the road.
Bottom line is that if you encounter mold growth, it’s best not to try and remove it on your own. Mold remediation is technical, complicated, and dangerous and should only be handled by trained professionals.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here for your Mold needs. Our staff is trained on exactly how to fix your mold issue and get your home back to the safe space you need.
Commercial restoration projects can be costly and time-consuming. Help keep your small or large commercial space moving. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is professional and knowledgeable in every job and is sure to leave you with more than what you ever expected!
Here are some of the commercial restoration and repair services that are offered 24/7/365. To get your businesses back up and running as quickly as possible.
Water Damage Remediation and Restoration
We are experienced in water damage remediation and restoration-no matter what size the project. Whether it is from sewage backup, flooding, or even leaks from damaged pipes, our crews are highly skilled at resolving it all. We are trained in the latest tools and methods of extracting water. These are all used to accomplish the most efficient results.
Smoke & Fire Damage
Getting rid of the smell, ash, and debris after a fire can be devastating and extremely difficult. If not done properly-could cost even more down the road to correct. All affected items are removed, walls are treated/painted, and strong acidic soot and smell are extracted using the most effective equipment. Know that our project managers will always put what is best for you and your company ahead of anything else. We have the cleaning tools to remove the smell and the soot from almost every item.
Biohazard Cleanup
SERVPRO follows all OSHA and Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards. The area is also sealed off to prevent cross-contamination and personal protective equipment is worn by our professionals at all times. These are required for the safety of our staff and our clients. This can be for a Trauma clean-up to Pathogen decontamination-we are ready and trained.
Mold Remediation
No one likes having a mold outbreak in their facility. This is why we use the most effective methods of mold removal and remediation. All moisture is extracted and post-remediation tips are also provided to ensure there is no regrowth. Having Mold handled properly is the only way to avoid future complications.
Here are some of the commercial businesses that we handle.
Public and private offices
Restaurants
Schools and Universities
Medical facilities
Retail stores
Recreational Facilities
Government facilities
Apartment Complexes and more!
ASK ABOUT OUR EMERGENCY READY PROGRAM,
Have your company ready at the click of a button.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here for your Commercial Business needs.
Call us today at 309-827-7500 or visit our website at www.SERVPRObloomingtonpontiac.com.
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Fire is very destructive. It holds no regard to anything or anyone. It will indiscriminately ravage a property -Residential or Commercial- once it breaks loose. The most important thing to do is to put it out as soon as possible. The quicker the Fire is extinguished will lessen the damage incurred to property and lives.
The second most important thing to do is to initiate fire damage repair and remediation. Fire damage repair will assess the damage done and restore the appearance of your property to pre-fire status. Here’s how fire damage repair should be done by proper professionals.
Move Quick
Initiating a fire damage cleanup is different from just cleaning a house after a “mess”. That’s where you just immediately pick up a trash bag and throw things in it or just pick up your broom and start sweeping. Then get the spray and just go to town….that won’t work.
Fire damage is different and complicated, as it requires careful planning and assessment before the fire damage repair can even begin. After a fire ravages through a property, it needs to be assessed thoroughly.
Professionals will know where to look and what to look for.
The extent of the penetration of the fire to the structure of the house will need to be investigated. In addition, the contents of the property will also be assessed so they will know which can be kept or discarded. Whatever needs to be kept, will have to be carefully restored.
Through this, a professional fire damage repair team will know what to do to try and restore your property to its former condition. Using this assessment, they will be able to give you an estimate as to how much the restoration will cost.
Secure the Property and Be aware of the Damage
Now that the scope of work has been determined, we need to secure the property. It’s important to create a fence in the perimeter to ensure that no one unauthorized or uninformed of what happened may wander inside and injure themselves or cause further damage to the property. It can be possible to use appropriate plywood to close any openings and avoid fencing. Both could also be required. Safety for the Professionals and the property has to be kept in mind.
Also, the fence is to give the fire remediation team a crowd-free room to work with. Next is to secure and remove all debris from the fire. Also, parts of the house will be sealed off from the weather. Covering up the roof to protect the interior of the house is necessary.
…..What else could happen?
Corrosion and mold will be some of your biggest problems in the aftermath of a fire. Further damage from water, that’s why water needs to be removed or the property dried out before proceeding any further. All personal properties will also be removed from the place.
Walls that were damaged, flooring as well- as some other materials that were ruined will also be stripped down to studs if deemed necessary. All of these are to restore the property’s structural integrity. If they can’t see issues-professionals can’t see them. If needed, there will be some portions of the property that on the surface may have survived that will need to be torn down for the overall safety of the house.
Start Cleaning
We’ve now come to the most extensive part of the fire and smoke damage repair process — the cleanup. Even professionals won’t rely solely on machines to do this phase of the job. Expect a lot of manual labor during the cleanup-hard work!
This is due to the attention to details needed in the execution. Each part of the property will be swept thoroughly and remediated. Then, right after the cleanup comes the deodorizing process. This is to remove the odor of smoke that may have latched onto the property.
Sanitation follows, using safe and tested antimicrobial chemicals for best results. The ducts won’t be disregarded either and will be checked and cleaned thoroughly for soot.
Restoration
The final step of the process is to try and restore the property to how it was before the fire. Different construction processes commence restoring different parts of the place. The roof, electrical, drywall, and flooring are some of the parts of the property that need attention.
This phase of the whole restoration process can take a while depending on the extent of the damage. But the property owner should begin to see a sense of normalcy at this point, as the damage of the fire will slowly yet surely be erased. After the property has been rebuilt, furniture and fixtures will finally be brought back inside the property for all finishing touches.
Moral of the Story….
Fire may ruin more than just property. But it doesn’t mean that if you’ve gone through such an ordeal that you can’t get back up on your feet. Be sure to call only professionals to get the best results when it comes to repairing and restoring your home and property.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac professionals are always here to help and always available during the process.
We are available 24/7/365 at 309-827-7500
So why do you choose SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac as your restoration company?
We are here to help homeowners, business owners, agents and adjusters...we have your back.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac understands you. As an agent or adjuster, you have a need and responsibility to keep claims costs down. All while still providing the best possible services for your customers no matter the situation.
Emergency Response
Restoring property is always the SERVPRO franchise professional's top priority. Our customers will appreciate the immediate response and will know everything is being done to limit the damage. This reflects well on our company as well as on insurance claims/adjustors.
Pretesting Reduces Expense
Restoring property is always less expensive than replacing property. Claims Professionals know the rule is, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary."
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac makes sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability. This method helps keeps costs to a minimum and keeps us ahead of costs.
Superior, Time-Tested Training
Effective training is one of the best ways to help ensure your customers receive the service they deserve.
Franchises are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. In addition, continuing education classes are available to franchise professionals and insurance clients at our state-of-the-art IICRC Approved Training Facility. These services help to keep our staff up to date on all new training techniques and technology.
We will use only qualified vendors to service your customer. That commitment results in:
A Customer Care Center to achieve prompt handling of the claim.
Implementation of best practices and job process programs.
National Accounts qualification criteria and annual compliance checks.
Crew and vehicle standards.
Insurance requirements.
File documentation requirements.
Quality assurance program.
Serving Adjusters and Their Clients
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac's job is to reassure your/the customer and perform quality service and to report to you quickly.
We know the adjustor's job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim and not to deal with problems from every vendor. Working together we can strive to save time. This will allow you to focus on priority files, while having complete control of every loss you are assigned.
Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac a leader in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. The SERVPRO System is entirely geared to achieve customer satisfaction and mitigation results, adding to your company’s competitive advantage.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac with any questions you may have any and let us know how we can help!
24/7/365 (309.827.7500)
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Why we do what we do...
There is a need for services of all types. Unfortunately in our world, we deal with fire, water, and worse. The fortunate part is there are people who are skilled and willing to help put together what has been torn apart.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has decades of experience being the leader in our industry. That doesn't just mean the leader in size or strength. This also means leading by example. This is our staff participating in community outreach, this is our crew taking the extra step during an assignment or even our office staff just checking up on a client.
We do things differently here - and we are proud of it. When you have the tools and know-how, it should get done. When you have those and the strength of a national brand, you have to make a difference.
We are your Start To Finish partner in recovery and reconstruction. We get you from "Oh no!" to "Oh Wow!" and we are proud of that.
We encourage feedback, no matter what. This makes our communication and our skills stronger. Feel free at any point during the process, to contact us with questions or concerns. We are here to help.
At SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac, we will make it "Like it never even happened."
One very large advantage to our nationwide brand at SERVPRO is the ability to reach out to each other.
SERVPRO franchises from across the country answered the call. These team members who drove through the night and will be gone for an extended amount of time-they are rockstars!
Our brand has the reach to help almost any area with any sort of disaster-our own home has been a prime example. As I traveled around with the Emergency Management Agency, we surveyed the damage and you can't miss the piles of the aftermath.
All of the basements, garages, living rooms, etc...where personal belongings were held-now cleaned out because water invaded. Our teams worked all day and night-all weekend-to help as many as possible.
For that, we can't thank them enough. Our teams, the teams from other states, the neighboring teams who worked with us, and anyone that has assisted in making it easier for us to do our job this last week.
Storm situations happen. They will continue to happen. They are tragic and they can be awful. However, we have seen how our area responded to this storm and it was magnificent. We appreciate everyone for their part - especially property owners. Knowing when to call for help, listening to advice, and being patient are fantastic virtues. We have seen this so much. This is a true testament to what Central Illinois is truly all about.
Keep watching our social media pages for further updates and reach out with any questions. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts - we appreciate you!
When your home has a water damage incident, the next steps are to prevent carpet mold. This is a high priority because it can develop quickly and can smell. Deep pile carpets often harbor mold spores that accumulate over time. These, along with other microscopic organic materials, serve as mold nourishment. Examples are skin cells, tiny food bites, hair, insect parts, and even dust. All that seems to be missing from this point is the moisture-que the water damage.
Carpet is commonly saturated during water damage and is rapidly converted into a highly efficient mold-breeding ecosystem. These can and will release toxic airborne reproductive spores. This will spread contamination throughout the home.
Do You Need To Prevent Mold?
The factor in the effort to prevent carpet mold after water damage is time. From the moment water seeps into a carpet, it becomes a race against the clock.
Within 24 hours, dormant spores begin converting into active mold growth - Once 48 to 72 hours have elapsed without professional intervention, a wet carpet and the padding beneath it must be considered presumptively contaminated by mold and should be removed.
That's it-it's quick.
Can Carpet Mold Be Prevented?
As we said-move quick
* Remove the excess water
* Remove saturated padding beneath the carpet
* Steam clean inject an anti-microbial solution to kill residual mold.
* High-Grade dehumidifiers and high-volume air movers to speed drying
In any such occurrence, know that SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac will be your source and can help you with your water damage needs.
Contact our team and/or read more in our blogs to know more about what we do and who we are!
How old is the wiring in your home? are you ready for an upgrade?
The lights and appliances are working fine and that means your wiring is too, right? Not necessarily.
Wiring is seldom inspected after installation and the wiring in your home may need an update. This is especially true if your home is more than 40 years old.
Why update wiring?
Installing sufficient wiring goes beyond a safety issue. It also enhances your home’s functionality, reliability, and safety. It helps to keep up with today’s ever-increasing power needs. This applies not only to the installation of current electrical wiring, but wiring to your phone, Internet, cable, and so much more.
Waiting is a risk...a huge risk.
According to the NFPA (National Fire Prevention Association), faulty wiring is the leading cause of residential fires in the United States. The National Electric Code (NEC) updates electrical codes and standards for outlets and wiring every three years.
Their mission is to keep up with technology designed to keep your home and family safe. Has the wiring in your home gotten any attention since the last NEC code updates?
Older wiring
Aluminum wiring used in the 60s and 70s, non-metallic wiring installed in the 40s and 50s, and knob and tube wiring in pre-1930s homes are well-known safety hazards. They commonly have loose connections and frayed wires resulting from wear and tear. Just like anything else, they age.
Two-pronged, ungrounded outlets
These are an enormous safety hazard – for you and your electronics. Without proper grounding, electrical excesses have nowhere to go. This could go into your devices – or you – even if you have a surge protector. Reduce shock risks by rapidly addressing this sign of wiring that is behind the times.
Missing GFCIs
Identified by the “TEST” and “RESET” buttons on receptacles, GFCIs protect you from shock in high moisture areas.
They are currently required in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, utility rooms, garages, spa/pool areas, unfinished crawlspaces/basements, and any areas outside of your home.
Missing AFCIs
AFCIs prevent fire by acting as a circuit breaker, which disconnects in the event of a potentially dangerous arc. They are required in bedrooms in all 50 states, though some states require them in all circuits throughout the home. Make sure to verify your state's requirements.
Childproof outlets require equal pressure in all prongs simultaneously for electricity to flow. They cost pennies more than a traditional outlet and are required in all newly built homes. This is an easy upgrade in a home.
Not enough power?
How many amps power your home? While 60 amps may have been sufficient in the past - today’s homes often need 100 to even 200 amps to successfully operate the huge amount of technologically, advanced appliances, mobile devices, and flat screens (etc). Without an adequate power supply, you could end up damaging these sensitive items beyond repair-costing far more.
Signs of Trouble.....
Tripped breakers
Blown fuses
Using extension cords or adapters to compensate for a lack of outlets
Flickering or dimming lights with the operation of neighboring appliances
Rodent damage
Popping, crackling or buzzing
Hot or scorch marked outlets
Burning smells or smoke
Protect your family and home, ensuring the smooth, efficient operation of all things electrical while boosting the value of your property. If electrical issues should cause damage-contact the crew at SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac to make it right!
How do you minimize your losses during a commercial disaster recovery.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac can help keep your business running.
When you own a commercial property, you are providing a good or service essential to the community. When you suffer a disaster it not only disrupts your life and livelihood-it could be affecting large portions of a community.
A simple example is a large Gym. A gym has a large pipe break and lots of water damage. This shuts the gym down until repairs are complete.
This affects the daily life of many of the patrons. There are many that depend on the morning workout and power drink to get them going for the day. Others are on a track for fitness-this makes them change up plans. While it all seems very trivial and minor to damage like this, it isn't to that individual.
What do you do? How do you cope with the business needs and the needs of your clients? The answer is never easy and it really isn't simple at all....however, having a plan will help take the sting off.
Can goods or services be moved to a temporary location off-site? How extensive is the damage, will it be a long closure/recovery? The key to the plan is having an open line of communication with your contract/remediation team. Being open about your needs and knowing exactly what to expect will help to execute your plans.
Back to our example, let's say the damage is extensive enough that the gym will be closed for 3 months. A good option would be to locate an appropriate "temporary" space and move basic equipment. Communicating with your clients that this is what they have options for will help them make informed decisions every time.
Your business may not run exactly the same but you are still providing goods/services to maintain your part of the community.
Knowing your restoration company has your back is no different. Your drive for your clients is the same drive we have for ours. We just want to make it right so you can get back to business as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is YOUR partner in remediation and reconstruction. You have your skill, this is ours. Work with our team to help develop plans so that you know what to expect if a disaster should strike.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has over 40 years of experience and is locally owned/operated. We have an important role in the community, so do you. Our teams work every day to keep everything going in the correct direction.
Call us today to work on your Emergency Response Plan. Let us be the partner you can count on.
Midwest still has wildfires....learn to prevent them.
There are two typical types of causes when it comes to forest fires. They are Human and Natural.
Natural forest fires are most likely the result of lightning with a much smaller percentage being caused by spontaneous combustion.
Spontaneous combustion is usually caused by an incredibly dry climate. When dead leaves, branches, and foliage gather and become extremely dry, heat and sunlight may cause these clusters to ignite.
While the most common cause of the wildfire is human action.
There may be several reasons forests ignite as a result of humans.
Cigarettes
Campfires
Timber equipment
Fireworks
Controlled burns
Arson
Down or arcing power lines
General carelessness of humans
While wildfires caused by human error are more common, they tend to destroy a smaller area because they’re easier to detect and stop once they start.
This is also because human-caused fires happen closer to populated areas and are reported faster. While the odds of a man-made fire being reported early are higher, this is not always the case. Several recent incidents of campfires, power lines, and other reasons are responsible for starting fires in remote areas.
When lightning strikes or combustion occurs deep in the middle of a forest, it can take hours before someone detects it, and even longer dispatch the equipment and manpower to stop the fire. By then-momentum has started and severe damage has begun.
While there isn't much we can do about mother nature and we don't have the dense forests that are out west-we still can host devastating fires. Take care and pay attention to what you burn, where you are burning, and what you do. Your small spark could have huge consequences.
Keeping our communities strong helps build them for the future.
This year we are venturing out on something new. We decided that since we can't feasibly get to every deserving organization or cause in every town - we will "travel".
This means that our 5k will not be run in the same place for the same charity every year. This means that we will choose a town, city, village or area different every year. In the selected site-we will get to know what great causes are important to them and benefit one. We hope that this becomes an activity to help more areas than we normally could and get folks out to see more beautiful communities!
This year - El Paso, IL will host and we will be raising funds to upgrade the trail area through the middle of town. Downtown is revitalized and beautiful. We would like to showcase that. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac serves these communities. Our services are not matched by anyone-nither are our people.
We love to showcase our work and the extraordinary work of all those around us! Follow our social media for more on what we do and what is happening in our communities.
Are your, your family, and/or your business ready to escape if a fire happens?
Fire Season has started-one of the most important things for your home or business is to have an Evacuation Plan. These are many times, not thought of as a priority – however, they truly are the most important part of fire planning. An effective evacuation plan will keep everyone safe in a fire situation. Whether you are starting from scratch or looking to improve upon your existing evacuation procedures, here is a seven-step plan to help guide you through creating a fire evacuation plan that protects your home or business.
Steps you can take to improve your Fire Evacuation Plan
Imagine every scenario
When planning your evacuation, start with basic questions to explore all primary threats. Where could it break out? How or why would a fire start there? What if “x” happens-“x” being anything you can think of. Examples: what if you have to go out a window? What if happens while your sleeping?
While that list seems endless-possible scenarios are an important thing to recognize.
Establish roles and responsibilities
Make sure everyone knows what they are to do. This is more important in a business setting-at home, the job is to get out of the building. In a business, there could be a fire door to chemicals, handicapped employees that may need assistance, etc. This is why planning is essential to keep everyone safe.
Determine designated routes and nearest exits
A good evacuation plan for you will always include primary and secondary escape routes. Doesn’t matter if it is a large office building or a 2-bedroom home-dual escape plans are essential and could make a difference when getting out safely.
Practice and meet
You will want to make sure these routes are practiced and that there is always a designated meeting spot. This is required to determine that all family members and/or employees have made it out of the building. Practicing these escape plans will keep those from panicking if the emergency should ever happen. Knowing what to do helps the safety of all involved.
When everyone is safe and the fire is out – know who to call. Know that the most trusted brand in the industry will take care of what is important to you.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has over 40 years of knowing what to do, how to do it, and why. We care about our customers and take great pride in the work performed. Know that SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac will work with you and your insurance to make it right. Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac with any questions on preplanning you may have. “Like it never even happened.”
Summer storms are unpredictable. These storms tend to target just neighborhoods or towns rather than entire counties. If you are one of the folks unfortunate enough to be in the path, your business is vulnerable to fallen trees, hail damage, fire from lightning, wind damage, losing all or part of your roof, flooding, and power outage.
Only minutes later, the storm passes, and you are shocked by the extent of the damage and how quickly it manifested.
Is Summer Storm Damage Preparedness Important?
As a business owner or manager, one needs to prepare and react to keep people working safely and stay productive. Here are 4 summer storm damage prevention tips to help your business survive and thrive after the sudden summer storm and reduce downtime from storm damage commercial property loss.
Your preparation and reaction to commercial storm damage will be the difference between successful business or weeks of downtime leading to a loss of revenue, and the threat of your competitors picking up valued customers. Prevention and planning along with executing your Emergency Response Plan (ERP) will keep your business up and running after the storm.
#1 Preventative Maintenance
We all tend to let maintenance items slip as the seasons quickly change. Seasons move from spring to summer and we worry more about baseball than we do maintain any property. Be proactive by scheduling an exterior building inspection on your calendar.
We have a simple checklist to get you started.
Check the condition of the paint and walls.
Check for broken windows and doors.
Check the condition of all railings and steps.
Check for plants growing on the building or its foundation (and even the roof).
Clean the roof. Use extreme care when working in high places.
Clean roof drains and gutters. Test drains and downspouts by flushing them with water. Remove debris.
Inspect the general condition of the roof.
Inspect gutters for adequate anchoring and tighten, add more if necessary.
Inspect the stack and all roof penetrations, reseal.
Clean up any debris found.
#2 Check Your Commercial Storm Damage Insurance Coverage
It’s devastating to discover that your insurance policy doesn’t have proper commercial storm damage coverage after a loss.
Along with your preventative maintenance and inspection, schedule an annual policy review with your insurance agent. Be sure to discuss coverages, exclusions, limitations and be certain that you understand them.
#3 Photograph and Document the Condition of Your Commercial Property Routinely
A photographic inventory of your business equipment, inventory organization, interior, and exterior of the business property is essential when navigating a storm damage claim. Your timestamped photographs will accelerate the process when working with your insurance adjuster after the storm damage has occurred and provides proof of adequate maintenance of the commercial property-This helps to receive the proper reimbursement.
#4 Initiate Emergency Response Planning (ERP) with SERVPRO®
It’s vital to the health of your business to have a current emergency plan in place and to update it annually. SERVPRO® of Bloomington/Pontiac Emergency Response Plan (ERP) program guarantees that you and your employees know how to prepare and react to summer storm commercial property damage – as well as other major disasters. Your ERP with SERVPRO® of Bloomington/Pontiac, will give you peace of mind that you have a strategic partner at the ready to respond to your need 24/7/365.
So you want to prevent mold from shutting you down...
So many things go wrong to force a business to close, even if only for a short period. Don't let mold be one.
Mold is invasive. It finds its way into commercial spaces just as much as it does in your home. Proper removal takes time, supplies, and proper procedure. So how does one prevent it so it’s not an issue?
Here are some tips:
Deal with the leaks.
Whether that be coming from the roof or due to plumbing, it is important to deal with them immediately. It’s going to prevent further water damage too.
Use a dehumidifier.
Your establishment’s humidity must always be maintained and kept at no higher than 50%. Standard. We understand how it can be challenging to keep track of information like this, so your bet is to install commercial dehumidifiers.
Ensure proper ventilation at all times.
Keep your air vents and air filters clean, and that the enclosed areas of your establishment are free of moisture.
Deal with flooding after you stop the flow.
Don’t let stagnant water sit too long and seep into your wooden walls, flooring, and furniture. That’s when Mold begins to form and spread.
By keeping these tips in mind, we are sure that your commercial establishment will be free of both mildew, smell, and mold. However, even with the mold control practices, these pesky fungi can still strike and be destructive.
You can always attempt to do the mold remediation yourself. However-if some cases may require you to call professionals. You might be wondering how long the entire process will take, especially if it means shutting off operations for a while. This will depend on how serious your case and how big the infected area is. Don’t stress, you can ask your professional mold remediation team at SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiacto make a detailed plan for you that includes the costs and dates of the entire procedure.
To plan for the unexpected, you will need to set aside a budget for the following:
Mold Inspection Cost
Mold Testing Cost
Mold Mitigation Cost
It is very easy to get the services of professionals such as SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac to be your mold experts and mold contractors in order to get rid of your space’s contamination and get your space back to how it was.
Feel free to practice the preventive measures that we have shared with you above. You never know, with these steps you might not even need a mold specialist in the first place. But if you do, know who to call.
Being ready for everything is almost impossible, let us help you.
When a fire breaks out-
Priority 1) Get everyone out
Next 2) Call the fire department
But then what?
Sometimes it’s a small fire-others are a total loss. We help keep you informed on how to prevent situations that could cause a fire and we let you know what we can do to get your life back to how it was. But what’s going on in the middle?
Many situations call for the individuals to be displaced for a short to long period. And in many of those situations, they are unable to have those bare essentials we take for granted-just to get through a couple of days.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac started to partner up with local businesses to build, what we call displacement bags. These bags go with our folks first on the scene as well as several first responder units. They are of no obligation to use our services but they provide just a little to get through a day or so.
Items include Personal Hygiene, notepad, Laundry supplies, donated discounted hotel rooms, the bag itself to carry items, and much more.
These bags are meant to get a household through a day or so-organizations like Red Cross and the Salvation Army provide further assistance as needed. These types of organizations do such a great service in getting those folks who need assistance during that time-we salute them!
For services after the fire and to get your life back to “Like it never even happened,” contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac. We have your back.
In our area, we are well aware of how destructive and unpredictable storms can be. Sometimes there is time to prepare a commercial building for possible storm damage; other times, you can only eliminate employee harm. Commercial buildings continue to try and best prepare their office, school, hospital, etc…but damage can still disrupt operations.
Wind, water, and debris can cause a ton of structural damage to your commercial facility. Strong winds tend to knock out the glass, remove roof shingles and distribute debris. When roofing becomes loosened and blows off, they expose the building’s interior structure to weather, which can likely lead to mold or disintegration. Water may need to be extracted immediately and the building may need to be secured against further damage. Your business could face disruption-let us help you avoid disruption and major loss of income.
Electronics may need to be restored, mold may need to be remediated and wet materials may need to be removed and disposed of. SERVPRO® of Bloomington/Pontiac has the training and expertise to restore and reconstruct your business to pre-storm conditions. Contact our office today to set up a preplan for your storm preparedness plans.
Fire can absolutely devastate; even small fires can cause extensive damage to your home or business. Smoke residue and soot can spread throughout the entire building, through and to areas you would never expect. All of which can leave you needing a deep cleaning and deodorizing everywhere.
Smoke Residue & Soot Removal
Smoke residue is invasive and unforgiving. It settles into every nook and cranny of every area in your property. Soot is simply smoke residue, the tiny airborne particles can travel throughout your home into locations not initially impacted by the fire. If left untreated, this residue can eat away at any material it settles on. A trained technician that is an expert at mitigating smoke damage from homes and businesses, should be the only individuals cleaning these surfaces.
Different types of fires leave varying residues. Our techs know how to identify the residue and what kind of cleaning method to use to get rid of it. Cleaning it properly the first time is the first step in getting this process correct the first time!
Fire Restoration You Can Trust
If your house or business experiences a fire, you want a company you can trust to handle the restoration process. SERVPRO® of Bloomington/Pontiac has years of experience bringing homes from fire, water, and flood damage to their preloss condition.
We want to make it “Like it never even happened.”® Contact us at 309-827-7500 for more information, we are 24/7/365 and ready to help.
Doesn't matter if it's soccer pictures or a museum piece, we can help.
One of the most heartbreaking parts of dealing with fire and the damage it can cause – is document damage. Document damage isn’t just billing and paperwork. Documents are photographs, books, historically valuable items…possessions of pure value to the owner. As a leader in our industry, SERVPRO® of Bloomington/Pontiac knows that working quickly on mitigation is the key to recovering those damaged possessions…as well as making sure they are damaged as little as possible. With our experience and our state-of-the-art technology/training-we at SERVPRO® professionals are available 24/7/365 to help recover your valued documents.
Our Document Restoration Facility:
Is Innovative: we use the latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as several other methods to stop the progression of damage.
Secure: managed by HIPPA Master-certified technicians, under 24/7 surveillance, rest assured, your valuables are safe.
Digital: we use a computerized inventory system for digitizing your documents-if you need to know where it is, we can find it.
Flexible capacity - we can accommodate large commercial losses or small residential jobs-no matter the size, we have your back.
Types of content:
Here are a few examples of items we work on-
paper documents
books and magazines
manuscripts and files
photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
x-rays
blueprints and maps
parchment
Why Choose SERVPRO® of Bloomington/Pontiac?
SERVPRO® Professionals will get the job done right. For document restoration backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 40 years of experience, and Professionals trained to the highest standards, call us today.
SERVPRO® of Bloomington/Pontiac is here to help, contact us today at 309-827-7500 for more information.
In a perfect world, your car would never make that noise, every bill would come when you had the money to pay for it and your toilet would never leak. Sadly, the world is not perfect and all of these happen, there is something we can help you with. We can help when your toilet has decided not to work in your perfect world.
Toilet water damage can cost $5,000 and THEN some (and that’s on top of the deductible). What’s worse is that one-third of toilet catastrophes started with a clogged or overflowing toilet, this is something that is easily avoided with proper toilet maintenance.
What Do I Do if My Toilet Overflows?
If the toilet is overflowing and it is not because of a blockage, then it could be that a simple float adjustment could save you from overflow and toilet water damage. Lower or raise your toilet float until the desired bowl fill level is reached.
Don’t flush again! If your toilet is definitely clogged, avoid the temptation to keep flushing the toilet to see if the waste will go away. This works seldom to none and often will cause the most damage.
Try a plunger. A simple-inexpensive tool every home or business should have. If the toilet is clogged but not spilling water onto your bathroom floor, try dislodging the clog with a plunger.
If none of this is working - turn off the water. If your toilet bowl is overflowing, then your first step should always be to turn off the water supply to your toilet.
This knob is usually located on the wall near the base of the toilet, below the tank. If this isn’t working you will have to shut the main water off to avoid further damage.
Call a professional plumber to fix the problem, then contact a restoration company to safely clean up the water damage and conduct any repairs necessary.
Here are some tips to help in those times of trouble*
Is Water Damage from a Toilet Covered by Insurance?
Sometimes yes…but not always. Every insurance policy is very different, but homeowner’s insurance usually will typically cover damage to your toilet and whatever water damages it caused to your home if the toilet water damage was sudden. Mold damage may or may not be covered. And typically, you’ll still be responsible for paying your insurance deductible.
If your toilet backup was caused by a clogged sewer line, however, your insurance will likely not cover the damages unless you have a policy that supports sewer backups. (check that out )
How Can I Avoid or Reduce Toilet Water Damage?
Check after you flush-simple. If you suspect that your toilet is clogged or not flushing properly, simply wait a few seconds after flushing to see if the bowl refills. If the water keeps rising, reach inside the toilet tank and lift the float. This will stop the water flow and avoid any toilet water damage. Then, turn off the water supply valve at the base of the toilet. Then go through the repair steps-but taking quick action can avoid a TON of headaches.
Perform annual maintenance on plumbing mechanics. Check the supply valve, flush valve, fill, chain, and other components to make sure they are working correctly. Make sure you know how to turn off the water supply both to the toilet and the main shut-off.
Is Toilet Water Dangerous?
Potentially. If your toilet overflows and contains any raw sewage or fecal matter, then you should not touch it without wearing proper protective clothing. However-if it has flushed and is refilling and simply won’t stop—it most likely is not. Either way-the “situation” should be dealt with properly.
What do I do if toilet water has gotten to the carpet?
Toilet water that has soaked into your carpets or other flooring material is considered a biohazard because it is full of microparticles that could quickly develop into mold or fungus if not properly sanitized. It is typically necessary to remove carpet that has been exposed to toilet water altogether and start fresh.
Instead of trying to handle toilet water damage yourself, leave it to the professionals, like your local water damage restoration company. They’ll have the proper sanitation chemicals to ensure that your house doesn’t develop mold and that your hardwood floors aren’t ruined forever.
SERVPRO® of Bloomington/Pontiac has years of experience with these types of situations, we know what to do and how to properly handle it. Contact us today at 309-827-7500!
We try to reach out as often as possible to get food, supplies, or whatever First Responders need.
One such case occurred recently with a volunteer fire department and some equipment they indicated they could use. Our SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac office worked with a corporate partner to put this department in contact with a grant foundation. Through this foundation, they could purchase some much-needed equipment.
We also donated a tool called "The Pigg" to the firehouse. This tool is equipped to help with entry and knockdown...among other things. We always look to help the communities we serve and want to thank those who put it all on the line to help their community.
We pride ourselves on the relationships we build in the community. It doesn’t matter if it is with our neighbors or if it is via sponsorship of a baseball team. Being part of a community isn’t just a little here or just a little there-all in is the only way to go. For businesses, we have our ERP (Emergency Ready Program) as well as relationships with the many organizations we are a part of. We also know we have a strong network of skilled professionals we have grown to know and trust.
Our staff lives, shop, play, and often grow up in the community we serve. We have a vast knowledge of what needs to be done and who is best to help-let us help you!
Networking is crucial to all business models, some more than others. It ventures from outings to sponsors to just simple word of mouth. We have and do participate in anything you can think of and love partnering up with new community members.
Keeping our community growing and prospering is beneficial to everyone…. every homeowner, every small business, every franchisee, schools, etc. Progress is a team effort and requires work -that’s what we do. Getting the work done right for customers and helping customers connect with who they need is all part of that.
We at SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac work hard to get the job done right and on time-and just doing that can help make our community a better place. Connect with SERVPRO, let us help you be ready for anything for your business, and help keep you connected with the community.
Violent weather can wreak havoc on buildings of all shapes and sizes. Wind damage can be a hazard to the structure of a building, by loosening the shingles or tiles on the roof. This can cause moisture such as rain and snow to infiltrate into the protective surface of the roof, which will result in the wood swelling and later on disintegration and can even become moldy. This can lead to a sagging ceiling and even more problems.
Elements such as wind, rain, hail, and lightning can result in turning people’s lives upside down, this is why having a storm damage restoration service on standby - to help this type of emergency is always a good option.
If caught in time, a restoration company will be able to rescue your building from greater structural issues, by inspecting the roof and replacing the dilapidated areas. After sealing and renovating the roof, they will then address the ceiling and restore it to the previous condition.
Here are some of the activities you can expect from your storm restoration service professionals.
Whether it is a business or residence, the restoration company will come to your property. Their trained experts do a thorough examination of the interior and exterior of your building. This will help them discover the level of the damage. In many cases, the restoration company will discuss the renovation plans with you and your insurance.
When everything is estimated and the work begins, then the clock starts. The next step will depend on what type of damage is present, and determining the type of equipment the professional will use. They will use specialized pumps and vacuums to remove water from the affected areas.
Generators can be brought in to operate the dehumidifiers and air movers so mold and mildew do not have a chance to make matters worse. Using customized cleaners, the specialist will then disinfect hard surfaces and shampoo salvageable carpets as well as apply deodorant to combat any odors.
The restoration process should be handled by professionals-properly handled storm damage can be taken care of easily and painlessly. Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for all your storm damage needs.
A house is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make in your lifetime. In order to protect your investment, you should vigilantly lookout for household problems and address them before they become issues.
Water damage……. nasty, unruly, unexpected. If left unattended, water damage can impact the structure or spawn other complications, including mold. Here are several methods you can use for detecting water damage within your house.
Check the Floors
No matter what kind of flooring you may have - it can manifest signs of possible water damage. For tile and wood – you will look for cracked, buckling, or warped flooring. When it comes to carpet, be wary of damp spots, gradual rises, soft spots, or the smell of mold and dampness – the smell is a sure sign that something isn’t right.
Look for Stains
Water stains on the floor around the bathtub, toilet, or sink, as well as stains on ceilings and walls, are the most obvious signs of water damage. Unusual stains typically indicate there is a leaky pipe or drain possibly inside a wall. Cracks in the drywall or areas that appear saturated and are soft to touch also signify trouble. Peeling paint is another sign of loose water within wall spaces. As the drywall gets saturated, paint and other finishing’s start to peel.
Inspect Outside
Check out the exterior of your house in detail. What you want to look for are pools of standing water, these can indicate poor drainage in the yard, gutter spouts that aren’t transporting water far enough from the house, or leaky rain gutters. Any of those issues will threaten the foundation of your home. Additionally, common signs of water damage on the roof may include pools of water, cracked - curled or missing shingles and even broken flashing.
Watch for Rust and Mold
Inspect your water heater and check for rust on the tank. A rusted tank could indicate a slow leak. Additionally, corrosion around pipe connections can be caused by water seepage. Visual signs of active mold growth means moisture is contacting microscopic mold spores. This often is in the nooks and crannies of your home.
Finally, don’t rely solely on just sight. When water stagnates, mold and bacteria can grow, producing a musty, very unpleasant smell.
If you're looking for water damage restoration or storm damage repair, contact the experts at SERVPRO® of Bloomington/Pontiac today for all of your property restoration needs. Large or small we can handle it all!
Have you recently had the experience of serious water damage? Doesn’t matter if it’s in your home or your business. Or are you worried about potential water damage and want to know what you could be up against?
While being prepared is never a bad idea, trying to manage major water damage yourself can put you into a difficult situation. While worrying about the cost of hiring professionals to manage the clean-up, could you cause more harm than good?
We want to talk about it and inform you of your options:
It Saves You Time
We are always so busy-we know YOU are a busy person. So, do you have time to commit to cleaning and restoring your space after water damage? Are you confident that the time you save is worth your aggravation?
If this is the workplace and you only have limited time to fix things before it causes you to shut down (if you have not had to already). Because you and your employees spend your workday-well- working, it’s often very hard to find time to clean properly.
Professionals will make quick work of all cleanup and restoration. Their workday is devoted to it. This is what they are TRAINED to do, they are good at it and are ready. You don’t have to waste your time when someone else can do the job more efficiently.
It Saves You Money$$$$$
You might think that hiring a professional water damage cleanup company for services is a waste of money, but is that really true?
Cleanup requires supplies that you don’t have on hand. It requires additional employee power with training. Professionals already have the right equipment and training for the job. Done and done!!
It also saves you money on lost business. If you spend too much time or wait too long after water damage, you can lose your flooring or any expensive equipment that you have onsite. Having a professional come in and take care of it quickly and efficiently can save some of it!
Professionals know how to get deep into the damaged areas to make sure that everything is fully dry and truly clean. You can rest easy knowing that there’s no pooling water that will cause more damage in the future (like mold….yuck).
If you’re doing it on your own, you may throw out things that could have otherwise been salvaged. Save your belongings by hiring a professional. Our Professionals have the materials made to restore and clean products damaged by water. Things would never think could be fixed---all of a sudden is back in your hands!
For Serious Water Damage Cleanup, Hire SERVPRO® of Bloomington/Pontiac.
You deserve to have professional water damage cleanup services for your home or office. Don’t risk trying to do it on your own or with a company that isn’t proven in the industry.
Our Crews are trained and ready, 24/7/365 to handle whatever you have come up with.
Whether it’s an emergency or you need to schedule for the future, we’re here to help. Contact us to get started.
Anytime a disaster hits, the potential threat to your company is always there. It’s always important to have a plan of action for any commercial disaster recovery if a disaster ever occurs. SERVPRO® of Bloomington/Pontiac can help. Our Emergency Response Plan can assist any commercial property with preparedness. With both an App and Printable plans, you can be assured your plan is ready.
Unfortunately, some disasters just can’t be prevented. But planning ahead and preparing for the unknown can help your company recover quicker and more efficiently. Many times, after facing things like water damage, fire damage, storm damage (among others)-companies don’t re-establish. We can assist you in forming a plan of action for commercial restoration after a disaster has taken place.
With more years of experience than anyone in the business, we’ve learned that each project comes with unique situations and challenges. We can identify your company’s priorities and help get your business up and running again.
We offer everything from commercial restoration services to controlled demolition and reconstruction-no matter the disaster. By offering turn-key reconstruction services you will have one point of contact for all your commercial disaster recovery needs----ONE AND DONE. We will also work closely with your insurance company to make sure your recovery process is as seamless and easy as possible.
Contact SERVPRO® of Bloomington/Pontiac today for more information on our ERP (Emergency Ready Plan) Program. Have peace of mind, knowing you are ready for whatever is thrown at you and your company.
If you are an owner or operator of a restaurant, then you are more than likely aware that inspectors will be regularly visiting the establishment. Of course, they look for the typical things (temperature of prep items, walk-ins, etc). They also review for things like dust where it shouldn’t be, dates on the fire extinguishers, smoke detector batteries, observe employees…..and a big one-MOLD.
One thing that shows increasingly on the public radar and therefore on the radar of restaurant inspectors around the United States is the pervasive problem of mold. Now mold is always a very unwelcome visitor and can especially troublesome for food service establishments. The largest problem is that mold is typically very difficult to remove and sometimes difficult to locate. At the same time, it is also considered to be very dangerous.
If you have seen signs of mold in your restaurant or in an adjacent structure, or you merely suspect that there might be a mold issue based on the smell of a particular area, don’t panic. Be ready to take immediate action to remediate the problem as quickly as possible.
In a situation like this time is true of the essence. You need to recruit the services of an expert in mold control or mold remediation. Ready with their tools and experience, most mold problems can be managed and eliminated in a manageable way. Afterward, the mold remediation expert can also help you understand the things you can do to prevent the problem from happening again in the future.
How does this happen? The microscopic spores move easily through the air that passes from the outside world or from another established mold outbreak. When they do land on something that is moist and in relatively low light with warmth, it gives them the chance to bloom. This process tends to go unchecked in areas that are relatively undisturbed. In the time it can allow a minor mold invasion to grow into a major problem. Unfortunately, restaurants tend to have a lot of damp and relatively untouched areas. These areas are especially in places like under the sink, behind the refrigerator, or even above ceiling tiles.
If you do find an area of mold, it’s best left to a mold control expert. If an inspector finds an area of mold they might not be satisfied with you attempting to clean it yourself. Some inspectors will even require documentation from a qualified mold remediation expert before clearing the issue and allowing you to open/reopen your restaurant.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for all your Mold questions and/or needs. We are ready 24/7/365 at 309-827-7500.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac goes "Over the Edge"
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has worked hard to promote community engagement between businesses and outreach organizations.
In working with the Boys and Girls Club of Bloomington/Normal as well as the Child Protection Network, we strive to be an example in our communities.
This year we are participating in The Over The Edge campaign! We are going to repel off a local hotel-down 11 stories! This event has been postponed due to COVID-19 but is now ready to rock! Our team is fundraising and working to reach the goal.
Next up-we are sponsoring the Golf Carts at their annual golf outing a week later!! We are excited to be part of these communities.
In 1967, SERVPRO Industries, LLC, was founded. As the franchise system is a national leader in fire, water, mold, and other specialty cleanup and restoration services. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 franchises- has responded to property damage emergencies ranging from multi-million dollar disasters to those suffered by individual businesses and homes.
Providing nationwide coverage, SERVPRO franchise professionals have established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners. Locally owned and operated franchises work hard to take those nationwide services to every small town and community.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac works to communicate with our clients and make the process of restoration easy--and painless. Our staff has the tools and know-how to keep your plans right on track.
National Superhero Day is for honoring both fictional superheroes and our real-life superheroes. Those individuals who risk their lives to keep others safe in their every day.
NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES!!
Real-life heroes put themselves in harm's way every day. In circumstances they may risk their lives for others –just the same as their fictional counterparts do. Some of these heroes have careers that put them into these situations - such as law enforcement, military personnel, firefighters, and many more. Others may be everyday citizens who step up in moments of crisis and do extraordinary things.
As we have seen- in the last year, real-life heroes are all of the essential workers who have the responsibility during these uncertain times to continue operations and keeping our everyday moving. Many of these people work behind the scenes without the general public realize how essential they are to keeping society going. Healthcare workers, Restaurant employees, Truck drivers, Cleaning companies – Etc. Take your favorite superhero a lunch and say thank you for all they do. Let them know that you appreciate them.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac employees also are real-life superheroes - essential workers working 24/7/365 to offer proactive cleaning services and disaster fire, water, mold remediation - as well as many other services. We are prepared to clean your home or business, no matter what kind of disaster hits. We have years of experience and we will go beyond the scope of the work a typical janitorial staff performs on a daily basis.
Call our office if your home or business needs deep cleaning services - (309) 827-7500
Small-business owners love what they do- you have to in order to run a small business. They play an important role in supporting their local communities as well. These businesses are providing a hometown feel for communities and are working hard to know their neighbors. These small companies do a lot to help others who live nearby in so many ways. When it comes to showing support for small businesses, and it’s important to do so, it’s not just to help them gain revenue and stay operational. Everything from the local boutique to the corner bakery relies on the support of loyal local customers to keep its doors open. When you spend money at a small business, you’ll gain plenty of wonderful benefits as well. Choosing SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for your service needs provides you and your community with valuable benefits.
Excellent and personalized customer service that can’t be beat!
Small-business owners build the relationships they have with each of their customers. They rely on regular clients as well as the sporadic customers. Being adaptable to both not only helps them earn a profit but also to spread the word to others about their company. Because these small businesses need the support of the community, you can expect to get friendly, personal customer service.
The staff of a smaller-sized business will typically be more available to answer detailed questions about the products and services. They can also order specific items for you to purchase at your request and are more available to customize your product. They also take more care into getting to know their customers, since they’re all an important part of the community they serve. More than anything, word of mouth counts when it comes to small business advertising. It’s not surprising that businesses want every single customer to have a positive experience each and every time. Expect to be greeted with smiling faces and eager help when you shop at a small business. This positive experience will keep you coming back, which is a win for everyone involved.
Innovation and Competition Thrive….
Because it can be more difficult for small businesses to stay current and up to date, they constantly have to work on adding new products to their shelves, new skills in their toolbox, new services in their lineup and new benefits for their customers. This is an overly positive thing, since it sparks healthy competition with their larger competitors.
It also encourages small companies to innovate, adding unique spins on the things they offer in order to keep customers returning and referring. You can also find more personalized, unique items at many small businesses that you won’t see in the big-box stores. The same goes for services and skill work. At SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac, we take pride in employing talented skill workers. We also have developed relationships with local trades for skills we may not have. These relationships provide so much more than what we can do alone. While larger retailers tend to focus only on the most popular items, smaller businesses have the freedom to fill smaller niches with less common and more innovative products—and supporting other local small businesses.
Community Support Can’t be beat---
By supporting a small business, you’re also supporting the local community. Spending your money there helps to stimulate the local economy and keep business thriving in your local region. These smaller-sized businesses help to create and sustain jobs, they employee those new to the workforce, those learning new trades, provide income for other small businesses-- as well as keep the area vibrant and buzzing. The support of the community means a great deal to a small-business owner, and they typically enjoy returning the favor by participating in fundraisers, local sponsorships and holding special events to show their appreciation. Coming together to spend your money with local business shows that you appreciate the things they’re doing for your neighborhood and the services that they provide. The support of the community works both ways when it comes to buying from and owning a small business. Every purchase made from these companies helps the owner provide wages for their workers, keep the lights on, keeps their kids in sports and put food on the table for their families.
We believe in our communities and the people that make them up. We work hard to build relationships as well as believing in them. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here for you and all of your Restoration-Reconstruction needs. We have the strength of a national brand, powered by all things local. Our families appreciate you.
We all know you need to clean your house or apartment regularly. However, do you know the staple reasons as to why?
There many people that put it off or possibly don’t bother cleaning at all. Next time you aren’t motivated to clean your home-just remind yourself of all the benefits. Here are some reasons on why it’s important to regularly clean your home. Keep in mind:
It helps keep your home organized: Cleaning your home regularly helps keep you organized-it’s just that simple. You know where all things are and don’t waste time trying to find your keys, pens, craft supplies or important documents.
Massively Reduces stress: It’s proving that living in a stressful environment or having to search for lost items increases stress. Just looking at cluttered spaces is stressful reminder of what needs to be done and makes your home even seem smaller than it truly is. Instead of the worrying on how you never clean your living room, avoid stress by cleaning weekly.
Prevents you from collecting junk: By regularly cleaning your home, garage or any storage area- you get rid of unwanted papers, junk mail, and other items you don’t need anymore. Don’t let these items pile up – look through it every few weeks and get rid of what you can as soon as possible, you will be happier!
Reduces allergies: If your home isn’t cleaned regularly, dust and other allergens will build up and hang out in the air. Cleaning every week will help avoid allergies or other breathing problems from progressing.
Avoids spreading germs: Keeping your home clean will stop the spread of germs and ultimately help keep you healthier. Cleaning up spills, vacuuming your carpets, and keeping your kitchen and bathroom clean will kill germs. Avoid getting sick by cleaning your home regularly.
Keeps out pests---Yes!: Bugs and rodents are attracted to spills, food particles, and other sources of food. If you don’t clean your kitchen, dining room, and other place you eat, you have a higher chance of having pests. Not only are pests unpleasant, they also spread germs, disease, and allergens. Keep your home clean and keep the pests OUT!
These are some of the reasons to regularly clean your home. We offer a variety of cleaning services and can help you keep your home clean. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is a locally owned and operated service company-we can help keep your space safe and healthy. Contact us today with any questions: 309-827-7500.
Let SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac take some of the stress out of repairs after a storm. Call anytime-24/7/365
Knowing what steps to immediately take after storm damage can make a major difference. It impacts everything from your furniture, your floors, your insurance claim to even your vehicles. Making the right decisions immediately afterwards can put your family, belongings and your wallet at risk. As challenging as recovery can be after a disaster, you can take some solace in the fact that so many individuals have gone through similar experiences-you CAN get through this. Finding folks who can relate to your experience can makes finding the direction you need a little easier.
Once you know what to expect and learn all you can before a storm hits. This is the best way to be more prepared to restore things to normal as quickly as possible.
Steps to Take After Storm Damage:
Check Your Home for all Damage
Review and Assess the possible Damage
Contact Your Insurance Provider for next steps
Avoid Additional Damage
Choose the Right Contractor to Restore Your Home
Not all damage will be immediately obvious. Keep in mind there could be slippery areas, electrical lines broken and exposed, loose floor boards or ceiling tiles, etc. This makes it more important that before you do a thorough walk-thru, follow all safety tips.
How to Stay Safe When Checking Your Home After Storm Damage:
Before going out, check the local news to make sure that your area has been determined safe.
Watch out for hazards such as broken glass and exposed nails.
Always assume that downed power lines are energized and dangerous. Stay at least 10 feet away and alert the police and utility company quickly.
Avoid standing water, particularly if there are nearby downed power lines.
Where possible, avoid checking for water or storm damage after dark.
If you do so, carry a flashlight and be on the lookout for open flame. This will alleviate the risk of harm from a fire or explosion from a damaged gas line.
If you do smell gas such as carbon monoxide—or suspect a leak—shut off the main gas line, open the windows, and immediately go outside. Notify the gas company and the proper authorities of the situation and don’t return until it is deemed that your home is safe.
Review and Assess the Damage to Your Home:
Before you contact your insurance company to start a claim, you need to go take pictures of the damage. These pictures are often used to help the insurance adjusters access the damage safely. There are several areas of your home that are most vulnerable to storm damage.
Contact Your Insurance Provider:
If you have insurance, you should get compensation if your home or business is damaged by a storm. You need to document all the loss you’ve suffered as a result of the storm. Take photos of the damage before anything has been moved or removed. Also, always document any extra costs that you incur because of the damage.
Don’t forget to keep receipts for hotel costs and other temporary living expenses. This is all needed for your insurance claim.
Your insurer will usually coordinate the work to be done to restore your home, so make sure that you’re on top of knowing who is coming to your home and when.
Avoid Additional Home Damage Where Possible:
When the time comes to start fixing damage- begin with what you can fix yourself.
Often, the storm might not have damaged your home completely and it can be restored with simple repairs. If you can properly repair some of the damage, you should get to it immediately as you seek professional repair services for the more complicated repairs.
Immediate repairs can also help prevent more damage. If water and wind are getting into your home (through a broken window for example) you should go ahead and board up the window as soon as possible-this will avoid further water damage.
If you don’t feel comfortable doing the job yourself, you may need a board-up service to secure your property. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac works 24/7 and can be there day or night for emergency service.
Choose the Right Contractor to Restore Your Home:
It’s important to hire professionals that are trustworthy. A contractor that can help you recover your home is important and essential to make your world right again. Poor or incomplete restoration will leave you with an unhealthy home for your family.
A great restoration company can take that responsibility off of your shoulders. Simply choose the company, and they will handle all communications between contractors and insurance companies.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has decades of experience with fire, water, trauma, pathogen, reconstruction, restoration and general cleanings. Call on us for your service needs.
In Illinois we get every end of the spectrum when it comes to weather. Up until recently it’s been cold with some flurries—but February seems to want to make itself known. Hopefully we can get through another Winter season without our homes taking on major damage.
However, hope alone doesn’t work. We have to prepare our homes and be ready for what to do if the ugliest of situations do occur. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is the largest restoration company in the area, we take caring for your home seriously! Read on for important tips to keep your home safe and warm and to prevent winter damage this season.
Always keep Snow build up at a minimum.
Roofs are engineered to handle all sorts of elements. Everything from rain to hail to snow to extreme heat-proper maintenance can keep your roof and your home safe and dry. Snow, rain, and debris commonly collect on your roof- especially in flatter areas.
But this doesn't mean that snow buildup won't become a problem on pitched roofs. The best way to protect your roof from snow damage is by investing in a good quality snow rake. A snow rake is a simple tool that allows you to remove excessive snow buildup from your roof. This can all be done while standing safely on the ground.
To use, gently pull the rake towards you down the slope of your roof, being careful to stand away from falling snow and debris. This simple tool is a proactive way to protect your roof in the winter months. Never use any type of defrosting material on your roof-it can damage your shingles and/or other roofing materials.
If you hold off on using a snow rake, make sure your gutters have been properly attached and your downspouts cleared. This way as the massive amounts of snow melt and run down your roof-it will properly drain away from your house and prevent further damage from water on your foundation.
Remember to remove Ice Build-Up to Prevent Ice Dams & Winter Damage
Just as much as you keep an eye out to remove snow build-up, you should also keep an eye on your roof for ice build-up. Ice can be especially dangerous when left accumulating for too long. The biggest areas of ice accumulation are the gutters. While icicles may look beautiful and like a normal sign of winter, they are a major threat to your roof. You can easily prevent icicles from growing by simply knocking them down with a broom or any other safe device that gives you plenty of clearance while cleaning the Ice.
We do strongly advise you to use caution when removing ice from your roof. If you whack an icicle too hard, you could potentially wipe out your entire gutter if you knock it too hard. Gutting your gutters of icicles is especially important in preventing what is perhaps the worst winter worry when it comes to your roof: ice dams. If you notice an ice dam forming it is important to address the issue right away. An ice dam is essentially a large clump of ice near the edge of your roof. If left long enough an ice dam will freeze your gutter and block snow from naturally falling off your roof.
You can prevent ice dams from forming by first staying on top of snow and icicle build-up. Make sure that water can flow freely from your gutters as ice begins to melt. Use an ice pick to gently chip away at large clumps of ice-safely-, removing them piece by piece from your gutter. As always, remember to stand away from your roof to protect yourself from falling objects. If you're not sure how often you need to clear away snow and/or ice from your roof, check the weather forecast. If it looks like your area will be getting six inches of snow, this is generally a good time to get your home ready.
As always, SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here when that unwanted water finds it way into your home. Our experienced and professional team is ready to help you with all your home’s needs.
Have you ever been in the shower and then find yourself wondering where is all this water going? Is this the same water I drink? How do they get the soap out? SERVPRO can help explain where it goes once it swirls down the drain...and how that can affect you as a home/business owner.
The Drain
If you're connected to a sewer system, your water is moving through a network of pipes and turns that increase in size the closer they get to a wastewater treatment plant. Every drain in your home is connected to a pipe that moves used water from your house to a sewer in the street. That includes every toilet, shower, sink, washing machine, dishwasher, and anything else that uses water connects to one singular pipe. This is true for every home around you as well and every home's pipe then connects to another, larger pipe which collects water from other streets, then another that connects neighborhoods….. and so on. The system continues until the water finally makes it to the wastewater treatment plant.
If you are not connected to a sewer system, your water drains into a septic tank. In the tank most of the solids settle out while the liquid water will go on to flow through underground pipes that have holes drilled into them; those holes allow the water to seep out and into the ground. This particular system of pipes is called a leach field. Safely dispersing out and leaving what has to be professionally cleaned in the tank.
Wastewater Treatment…..or pure Magic?
If your water took the sewer system route, it made its way to a wastewater treatment plant. First, the wastewater that you washed down your drains will go through a the primary treatment process, which aims to remove all large particles and debris.
Then, for secondary treatment process, organic matter is removed with bacteria that break down pollutants before the water is disinfected with chlorine to remove the bacteria.
Finally, in some cases, the water goes through one last advanced treatment process to get rid of any remaining pollutants that could go on to cause problems in the area. So, your water flows through all kinds of pipes to the wastewater treatment plant where it is treated, cleaned, and made safe to be reentered into the environment and local bodies of water. The treated water could go on to become drinking water, it may be used to irrigate crops, it could help sustain aquatic life, and it can even end up back in your shower where it all began!
How does this affect you has a property owner?
You may want to check into your local guidelines, but most locations-it is the homeowner/business owner that is responsible for drainage on their property. What can happen if a pipe collapse, gets clogged, back-flows, etc.? Everything that is draining stops and goes back where it was. Odor and drainage can start flowing back into the property instead of away from the property-causing an enormous amount of damage.
The sooner you address any pipe/drainage issue, the less of an impact it will have on your property. But sometimes that sewer system gets clogged and backs into your property. Call the team that’s trained and ready to clean up the mess and make it right. The Team at SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has the crews ready-24/7-to fix what isn’t right after your pipe is repaired.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac at 309-827-7500 or visit our website at SERVPRObloomingtonpontiac.com for more information.
Don’t feel like you are left with the mess. Call the team to make it right!
Is your Commercial Business ready for an emergency?
Things to look for prior to hiring a Commercial Restoration Contractor
When your business is faced with water, fire or some other disaster-how do you work to get your livelihood back up and running? Those damages can be easily repaired or could put you face to face with losing a business. When you face any situation of mitigation and restoration, who do you call? Who do you trust?
It’s time to pick up the phone and call in professionals. However, how well do you know the restoration company you are calling? When looking for restoration contractors, you must remind yourself that you are allowing workers into your space to fix damage to your business. You want workers who are expertly trained professionals with experience. These experts are fully equipped with the latest cleaning instruments and current restoration techniques. Commercial properties expose contractors to an entirely different field of fire requirements, building codes and zoning restrictions. As an owner, you will want to do the research on companies you can trust to follow all guidelines.
Here are a few things you can do to avoid contacting fake, or unprofessional restoration companies.
Check if Their Website is Genuine
The internet can be a place for scammers and false people. However, it is also a good place to find restoration companies the quickest and easiest way possible.
You will know if the site is from a professional company when you are presented with links to their services. Use these links to research their work, their guidelines as a company.
Some services for commercial restoration include:
Sewage Remediation
Fire Damage Restoration
Water Damage Restoration
Content Restoration and Care
Mold Remediation
Community involvement
Read Client Testimonials, Check Reviews
Most service companies are turning to social media to keep communities and would be customers well informed. Use their websites, their Facebook, etc. to find reviews and details on services provided. Looking at what previous clients have said about the companies will help you to have an informed decision.
By reading the client’s testament, you get an idea of how this company will handle the situation you are facing.
Call Them Up, It Never Hurts To Ask
Professional workers know what they are talking about; they know the history, and services their company provides, and they know how to solve simple restorations even when they are on the other line.
If the job was done by unprofessional workers, it may do more harm than good to your property. Instead of fixing the problem, they could complicate the situation with sloppy work, and mess-ups; leaving you in a difficult dilemma.
Ask questions. Don’t ever be afraid to ask questions.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is ready. We have the Team. We have the Experience. We have the Knowledge to get the job done right.
SERVPRO has programs set up for Commercial Businesses to have plans in place for emergency situations. Contact us today to help you set up your FREE plan-be ready for anything that happens.
How far will the Mold go and what does it do to you?
What Causes Window Mold?
Mold is something, especially as homeowners-we expect to deal with at some point or another. When we deal with our basements or bathrooms, we very often do not think of windows as areas of mold growth. However, window mold can become a large problem for many homeowners. Mold can not only damage wooden window sills but it can pose serious health effects.
Although mold does not typically grow on glass, it can be commonly found between the window panes, along wooden window sills, frames, and along window tracks.
Mold growth in these areas is a result of not dusting windows on a regular basis- along with moisture buildup from humid or wet weather. Dust buildup can quickly block the ventilation of windows, and create an ideal environment for mold growth within your home.
How Can I Prevent Window Mold?
The best way to prevent mold growth along your windows is to make sure the area is clean and dry. Dust around your windows regularly to prevent any buildup. Make sure that your windows are properly sealed and insulated to prevent excess moisture from getting inside and creating the environment best suited for mold growth.
Reducing the level of humidity in your home can also be helpful. Keeping your home cool and the summer with fans or an air conditioner, and using a dehumidifier.
What Should I Do If I Discover Window Mold?
In mild cases, small amounts of window mold can be removed using household detergent.
You can apply it to the problem area. Then scrub it with a brush. You can also use a small amount of bleach to get rid of the mold.
**Be sure to wear appropriate protective gear, including a face mask and rubber gloves, as black mold can be dangerous.**
However, if you find there is a large amount of mold, or it is in areas that are difficult to remove, it is best to contact a professional mold remediation company.
They can remove mold effectively to prevent damage to your windows or health effects.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here for your Mold Remediation needs. Call our trained and experience team to guide you through the process and provide an estimate on your project.
We all are busy. Even when we are at home more because of a pandemic-we still don’t seem to have enough hours in the day to detail our homes as we should or would like too. What are some things we forget about? How often do we clean items? What actually needs to be cleaned?
We all know as renters, homeowners, landlords, business owners, etc…. keeping our areas cleaned properly makes for a nice living and work environment. It can be a hassle to do chores. It can be frustrating to realize the items that are unexpectedly neglected. What do you do?
First, Give yourself a break.
You are not alone. Despite what you may believe-no one has their house 100% from top to bottom….at least not on their own and not with a family around for sure! Use the tools that you have at your disposal. This is as simple as printing or using an ap that schedules your cleaning days. The schedule should include daily, monthly, seasonal and yearly cleaning items. A good example is you don’t clean your siding as often as you clean your toilets. So taking a second to not stress over it and develop a plan-gets you past part one.
Second, Make your plan make sense.
If you have 6 bathrooms, it would be really difficult to clean all 6 in one day-on your own-and do anything else. Life is too short to just clean all day. Make a plan-involve those whom live in the household and stick to it. Once it becomes routine-it’s easier.
Third, Always make sure you have supplies on the ready.
Once you are complete with a cleaning rotation-check your supplies-if you are low, add it to your shopping list. This helps keep you on track. That way when you go to clean your windows, you can do more than one window with the cleaner you have. Supplies are essential to the professionals-they are just as important to the individual.
Fourth (and last), Know who to call when it is an item beyond your skills or your products.
When it comes to cleaning carpets, duct work or other specific items-SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is there to help. When you come across items or areas that need a deeper clean or help removing mold-SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has the trained staff to complete the job.
After noticing her washing machine leaking, a local homeowner decided to call SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac. Our crew arrived promptly and immediately began the extraction process. Good news was, we were there quickly before it could get worse-the bad news was it was far more extensive that they thought. Upon further inspection, our team found that the continuous hard floors in the home showed significant signs of long term water damage.
After taking a few moisture readings and exposing what was under and behind the walls, the crew discovered the subfloor was saturated with water and very brittle. Before we began removing the floors, we removed the homeowner's furniture, keepsakes, and other belongings in the affected areas. The items were packed up and moved to our safe and secure storage space. Once the moveout was complete, our trained team began removing the affected drywall and flooring. Then special drying equipment was set up to dry out the structure.
After the structure was completely dry, we prepped the areas for the restoration process. All during this-keeping our homeowner up to date on what was going on.
We were able to save most of the structure, rebuild and replace what was necessary in a quickly and timely manor and have the home back to the way it was quickly.
At SERVPRO, we strive to get you back to where you were....and better. We are here for you and your home.
Storm damage occurs all the time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home or yourself. Heavy rains cause flooding, powerful winds cause roof damage, downed trees cause property damage and excessive ice could cause all of the above. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards. Always having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm.
The quicker you are able to mitigate and repair damage left by a storm-the faster your home and life can get back to what it was….pre-storm.
Take all necessary safety precautions-prior and during a storm….
Heavy winds and rain create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls or standing water in the basement or home interior. Furthermore, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health effects.
Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac to help do basic tasks to secure your property. If necessary, arrange for an alternative place for you and your family to live while your property is being restored to safe living condition.
Photograph All Damage…
If it is safe to move around your property, use your cellphone or a camera to photograph the damage so that you will have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure that you are fully compensated. If you annually photograph things around your house-this will also help to know what is in your home and make the claims process even easier.
Contact Your Insurance Company…ASAP
Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjustor to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made. They can also help to let you know steps you need to take and where to even start.
Look Into Federal Disaster Assistance for Natural Disasters
The federal government may have declared the area affected by the storm as a disaster area that is eligible for low-cost loans to help restore your property to normal. You will be required to file documents to receive these loans and/or have photos. Keep a timeline of whom you talked to, what happened and pay attention to what your insurance company can help you with.
When a storm-related disaster strikes, it may seem overwhelming, but these steps can help you to begin the process of restoring your home and your life.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here. We provide 24-hour emergency disaster service. We specialize in board-up, mitigation and restoration of homes and businesses that have suffered small or large loss from water, flood, wind, storm, fire damage and smoke disaster. At SERVPRO, We make it “Like it never even happened.”
Let’s say you have a neighbor, friend or family member that is a person living with several animals. Although their heart is in the right place with these animals and they picture themselves as a savior to the homeless cats, dogs or whatever- in the community, they can’t quite keep up with all of the needs of the animals.
Over time, the pet food containers, fecal matter, and urine accumulate into a truly hazardous living condition. The condition of the animals begins to deteriorate as vaccinations are not administered and disease among the animals begins to transmit. A neighbor notes the issue and contacts animal control in concern for the animals and their neighborhood. The animals are subsequently removed and the neighbor is now left with an overwhelming home environment that is unhealthy to live in.
Scenes like this are much more common in our communities than many really know-especially now. Animal hoarding is defined as: excessive acquisition of more animals than could reasonably be adequately cared for by a person on a particular property-and happens frequently. The National Humane Society estimates that over 250,000 animals suffer and die due to animal hoarding on an annual basis. Much too many. It doesn’t make sense to most people, that a person would voluntarily take on the volume of animals found in animal hoarding situations. However, similar to standard hoarding disorders, animal hoarding is typically a manifestation some sort of underlying mental illness. Furthermore-it’s not just animals that can get ill - those individuals also can become ill or worse. The urine and feces left behind in an animal hoard environment can result in a toxic environment for the person left behind.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac specializes in the remediation of urine and feces decontamination. Our technicians provide discreet aide to help restore those in need and to help return their environment back into a safe place for them to live. Our business is to keep the dignity and respect of the client intact as we help to restore their home to a healthy environment. If you, or anyone you know, needs or would like help with the remediation of animal urine and feces remediation in their home please contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for a free estimate. “Like it never even happened.”
Contact us today at 309.827.7500 or www.SERVPRObloomingtonpontiac.com.
Keeping everyone protected and aware will keep everyone safe.
What is the Reason that Fire Alarms are so Loud?
If loud sounds damage hearing—why are fire alarms so loud? And is there anything you can do to protect your ears from the noise?
How Loud Are Fire Alarms, Truly?
NFPA 72 lists requirements for fire alarm notification appliances, which take two primary forms:
Audible and Visual
Horns and sirens provide the audible alerts. Sounding off at 65 to 120 decibels (dB) when standing 10 feet from the device. Strobe lights provide the visible alert. Flashing once per second at 15 to 1,000 candelas, depending on the setting.
Prolonged and repeated exposure to loud noises can damage your hearing-That’s a fact.
The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) states that 85 dB and higher is the danger zone for hearing loss. However-being able to get everyone to safety becomes the task.
Why Do Fire Alarm Volumes Vary?
The goal of a fire alarm is to make sure everyone in the building knows to evacuate. That’s why the NFPA requires fire alarm horns and sirens to sound louder than typical noises.
The precise requirement is 15 dB above the average noise level or 5 dB above the maximum ambient sound-or whichever is greater. This means it may be appropriate to program fire alarm horns to 75 dB for a restaurant or office setting, but an industrial facility with loud equipment may need to sound off closer to the maximum 120 dB level to ensure the sound stands out from other ambient noises.
The high volume requirement for fire alarms accounts for the fact that distance from the horn decreases its perceived volume, and building materials absorb noise, especially if the doors are closed between rooms.
Due to these factors, the decibel level must be high at the source to ensure the sound travels to every corner of the building.
How Can You Protect Your Ears from Loud Fire Alarms?
When you hear the shrill noise of a fire alarm, your first instinct is to cover your ears. This is actually an effective way to defend against hearing loss while you walk calmly toward the exit and make your way out of the building.
More importantly, however, is to create a fire evacuation plan and hold fire drills regularly.
This way, your staff and/or family is confident about what steps to take and where to evacuate in case of an emergency. By planning ahead, you can limit confusion and reduce the time you’re exposed to loud volumes.
Finally, if you think the decibel level of your fire alarm is too high, hire a fire protection company to examine your equipment and make a determination. Your technician will make sure the volume is just right for safety and compliance with NFPA 72. Even though fire alarms can be loud, it’s imperative not to tamper with them. The NFPA has established fire codes that provide maximum safety for buildings in all industries. Disconnecting or adjusting the volume of your fire alarm sirens could result in noncompliance penalties and increased liability or decrease effectiveness.
So often, a homeowner has water seeping into their home. It varies in amounts and can be from flooding or even broken pipes. Once you clean up the water-you have to remain concerned about mold.
It doesn’t take much water for mold to grow and do a lot of harm. Flooring is at the top of watching for damage. Cleaning water-soaked carpets and floors is difficult under any conditions, but in the aftermath of a storm or flood, contamination by mud, silt, sewage and mildew, can make the issue so much worse.
Prevent mold growth by drying water damage quickly and effectively.
The sooner you start drying and cleaning after a water damage, the sooner you can stop mold from growing under your carpet. The tools are simple: fans, bleach solution and appropriate cleaners. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has all of the equipment and cleaners needed to appropriately cleaned and protected…. with the added protection of a certified trained crew to take care of it.
Water has to be removed as quickly as possible.
There are machines that can remove water, there are also larger machinery that restoration companies have that can remove large amounts of water much more efficiently. The quicker you remove the moisture, the sooner it can dry to avoid damage.
Use fans to effectively speed up the drying process and a dehumidifier to dry it out.
It can take several days for fans to completely dry a water damaged area appropriately. The good news is that they also help circulate fresh air and eliminate odors. These machines remove excessive moisture, which makes the air feel cooler and limits mold and mildew growth. Any equipment that helps dry out the air and the ground will speed up the drying time for your damaged floors and coverings as well as walls affected.
Steam clean carpet and flooring, sanitize walls/baseboards affected.
Steam clean all carpets to properly sanitize and deodorize. Removing water, drying and cleaning carpets quickly make it possible to save the carpet. However, water-damaged carpet padding must be replaced. Replacing just the padding is much less expensive than having to re-carpet an entire area.
Anything touched by storm water should be sanitized and cleaned. Clean all walls, hard-surface floors and other household surfaces with soap and water as well as sanitized. Restoration companies should be able to complete all these services properly.
Finally, Check the furniture
Look for water damage and remove furniture from wet flooring. Water damage can easily be hidden underneath rugs or carpet, so be sure to give your home a thorough inspection if you suspect water damage.
Take great care in repairing your home. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here to help you. We have the certified trained staff and equipment to take care of your home.
The importance of cleaning wood floors & woodwork after a water damage
After wood floors have been covered with extensive moisture, they need to be cleaned, flattened and possibly replaced. How is this determined? When do professionals need to be called in?
The answer is, call the professionals. If you have wood floors or woodwork to save, call in the professional cleaners. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has trained professionals on mitigation and remediation-they will let you know up front what it takes to save woodwork-and if it’s not.
Before the house dries out, scrub all woodwork with a stiff, but nonabrasive brush, plenty of water and detergent to remove mud and silt from corners, cracks and crevices. Floodwaters tend to accumulate in partitions and exterior walls. Draining these areas as quickly as possible is the most important first step. Insulation and structural pieces can dry properly if the moisture is removed. Remove the baseboard and drill holes between studs a few inches above the floor. This part of the process looks strange-however it allows air to move and dry without having to rip the entire wall out.
If refinishing is necessary, wait until moisture has dried from all wood framings, between walls, floors, and backs of trim. This may take several months-our professional team can place all appropriate equipment and test to have this done as quick as possible. The big question, what happens if the wood floor looks like damage may be setting in.
Wood floors may buckle-There is only so much you can do. Leave them alone to dry. Dry wood as fast as possible without aggravating shrinkage. Open windows and doors wide enough to give good ventilation on dry, non-humid days only. Maintain a temperature of 50 degrees to 60 degrees in the house. Keep fans running to keep the air moving. After the house is dry, there are several possibilities for renovating the floors. Some of the buckled flooring may be pounded into place with nails, some bumps may be removed by planning or sanding down. Heavily planed floors may never be used uncovered, but a smoothed old floor can serve as a base for a resilient hard surface floor covering.
Mold and mildew are common problems with wet wood. Badly infected wood must be replaced. The professionals will let you know if removal is the only option. Clean mildewed floors, woodwork and other wooden parts by scrubbing with appropriate solutions and rinsing with water-then drying-But always call the professionals to test and receive appropriate guidance.
Then apply a mildew-resistant finish.
Don’t give up on your floors-but be diligent, go to professionals, and know where you are with your floors. Call SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac to have your cleanup done right!
It doesn’t matter where you live in the United States. Every location has its own hazards for roofing. Weather varies from Hurricane to Hail to Snow to Tornadoes-it all wreaks havoc on a home…. especially a roof.
So, what do you do after a Storm? How do you identify roof damage, and what should you do about your roof after a major storm?
Types of Roof Storm Damage
Wind
Hurricane-force winds, which are 74 mph or greater, can cause visible damage to your home’s roof. High winds can remove or tear shingles- leaving the underlayment, roof deck, or waterproofing material exposed to the elements. Those then can become saturated and leads to damage inside the building.
During less severe storms, sudden, sharp gusts of wind can lift and even curl up the shingles. When shingles are installed, they’re purposefully overlapped to create a water-tight seal. This lifting and curling can break this seal, potentially leaving your roof exposed to damage from wind-driven rain.
Hail
Hailstorms typically are relatively short and rarely last for longer than 15 minutes. Hailstones can leave dents or marks in shingles and knock shingle granules loose. This is problematic because these granules protect your roof against rain and sun damage. Hail can also ruin the pleasing aesthetic appearance of your roof’s surface. This damage happens fast-and will need to be repaired quickly as well.
Standing Water
Roofs without proper drainage can experience problems with standing water after big rainstorms, especially in uneven areas. Clogged gutters cause backed up rainwater under your shingles, which allows moisture to potentially penetrate the underlayment or the roof deck. Water then can seep into a building causing mold and damage.
Debris
Depending on how severe the storm can be or what kind of storm, debris can end up on the top of your roof, everything from small branches to larger tree limbs. Large objects can dent or impact the surface of the shingle, leaving that area of the roof vulnerable to moisture intrusion, whereas lighter branches may not be as much of a problem.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac can help tarp most buildings and work on repairing any issues that move towards the inside of your structure.
From several homes in one area to a Large building-Storm preparedness is the key.
No Job is ever described as Too Large for SERVPRO
Our Commercial Large Loss Division Teams are the best in the business. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac can have a Large Loss Team in any of our Locations within an hour. This team is built up of the best in restoration and these specialists are qualified and ready to go. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. No detail is left untouched.
At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and keep costs affordable through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Get the professionals, call SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac.
Those whom have utilized Large Loss Teams:
Hospitality
Property Managers
Universities
Municipalities
With the ability to mobilize local command centers as well as the resources of more than 1,700 Franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big. Call our office to schedule a time to go over Large Loss Teams and know ahead of time what we do and how we do it. Let us take care of your property.
Call SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac at 309-827-7500
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac franchise professionals understand all situations.
As an agent, adjuster, contractor or manager you have a responsibility to keep costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers/residents. SERVPRO Professionals are qualified to help. The results we produce speak enough for themselves.
Our Emergency Response to Claims
Restoring property is the SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac’s first priority. Your customers will appreciate the immediate response we provide. You will know everything is being done to limit the damage and turn properties around. We are well aware that restoring a property is more economical than replacing most properties. SERVPRO will make sure all pretesting is completed on every loss to determine what can be restored and what cannot.
The professionals with SERVPRO can provide an itemized loss inventory system. This includes an Excel report and pictures of those important items.
Electronic Claims Information Available
Our Claims Information Center provides fast, accurate information you need to make sound decision. These include Notice of Loss, Detailed Estimate, Photos, Forms and Paperwork as well as a Complete Electronic Job File and many more.
What we do on our end?
Effective training and certification is the best way to help ensure your customers receive the service they deserve. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontic professionals are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. They are also diligent on continuing education classes available to franchise professionals and insurance clients at our state-of-the-art IICRC Approved Training Facility. We continue to only use qualified professional vendors to help service customers as well.
A SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac professional's main job is to complete work the customer needs and wants. They perform quality service and to report to you quickly and thoroughly. Working together we strive to save you time so you can focus on your priorities. SERVPRO professionals documented, measured performance increases value to you and your shareholders, managers and customers.
SERVPRO leads the industry in the fire and water cleanup and restoration. The SERVPRO System is geared to achieve customer satisfaction and mitigation results, adding to your company’s competitive advantage.
Fire damage restoration is a delicate task that should only be handled by professionals. What’s left after a fire is not just fire damage. There is water damage and possibly structural damage necessitated by firefighters to control and assure that the fire is fully extinguished.
Fire-retardant chemicals, soot and smoke damage fill an area and can create toxicity that must be handled quickly and carefully. Professionals with SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac are trained to maximize the salvage of belongings and can try to prevent further damage. We will be there as the fire is extinguished by emergency personnel in order to start the process. We want to take some of the stress out of an extremely stressful situation. We will work quickly to assure your property is secure through our board up services. The following are a few important aspects of Fire Damage Restoration you need to keep in mind.
Inspection
Once the fire services are done controlling the fire, our experts carefully and efficiently inspect the site for damage. They will classify the damage according to the cause i.e. fire, water, chemicals, and smoke. After determining the type and level of damage, we shall create a custom detailed report and generate a restoration plan. We will work with you closely throughout the restoration process.
Eliminate smoke odors and removal of residue
We will eliminate smoke and odors from the site. Smoke is corrosive and may cause further damage to your possessions and so it is imperative to eliminate it first.
We remove soot from the entire structure as well as removing wet carpets to discourage mold growth.
Protect undamaged property
There may be parts of your property that were not affected by the fire. The restoration team will seal off these areas to avoid damage from smoke, soot, and odors. Items in these areas will be moved to a storage facility through inventory and packing to ensure their well-being and safety.
Repair
We will repair, replace, and rebuild any affected areas. The items damaged beyond repair are listed for the owner and will follow up with your insurers. Belongings that can be cleaned are restored and returned.
For fire restoration in central Illinois contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is dedicated to getting your business or Commercial property back up and going quickly. Don’t let an emergency force you to depend on a partner you don’t know. At SERVPRO, we are here to help you prepare for the unexpected. We also provide several services non-emergency related. Building a relationship with a trusted partner is good business. Meet our staff, review scenario plans, run through situations, tour our buildings or let us partner with you on community events. We are also a locally owned and operated business. We help you be ready. We can help get your facilities back to where they were and/or better!
Don’t let an emergency get in the way of the foundation of a strong business. Strong businesses are built on a foundation of strong relationships-this has always been true. The relationships business owners, operators, marketing and other employees are relationships you are building with customers.
The businesses who reach out to us are in a time of crisis. Because of this, these relationships should be built on a foundation of need. We want you to have your confidence established before-by doing this-we can only make this relationship stronger!
To learn more about building relationships that will become the basis of your commercial business needs. Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac, we are here to help. “Like it never even happened.”
This is nothing new. This is a fact. However-there is an entertainment value in fireworks as well. Use fireworks properly, safely and observing all appropriate safety precautions. Injuries related to fireworks can range from minor to life threatening. Property damage occurs every year with improper use of these devices.
We promote proper firework safety in our community and want our customers, neighbors and friends to follow some simple precautions during their celebrations.
Follow these safety tips when using fireworks:
Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
Make sure they are purchased from a repeatable store.
A small issue in the Garage can turn into a large issue to your home quickly.
Keep your Garage Safe!
Fire can start just about anywhere in your home. Many homeowners overlook the Garage area for fire prevention. We all do it. -“Just put it in the Garaged”. That phrase is uttered more often then we realize. There are a few key things you can watch out for.
1: Electrical Issues
Electrical fires are so common. They can be from malfunctions in the equipment, faulty devices using an outlet, etc. Keep track of all of your wiring-keep it used safely. Don’t leave things plugged in that don’t need to be plugged in. Avoid long term use of extension cords. And if you have pets or who knows what gets into garages, make sure cords are not chewed on.
2: Flammable Liquids
Garages tend to be the catch all. All the paint, finishers and other flammable liquids are potential fire hazards. Storing these liquids properly is going to prevent them from becoming a dangerous situation. Follow manufacturer guidelines for storage and keep them in a shed if possible. This goes for your propane tanks as well-keep them stored as a flammable liquid.
3: Clutter
Clutter can be harmful anywhere. It can cause small fires to turn into larger quickly when there is clutter around. This is also true for a garage. Keep your storage areas including your garage properly maintained and clean to avoid any additional fire issues.
The Key is Prevention
Garage fires tend to get out of hand very quickly. To avoid a disastrous fire, there are a few things that can be done to fireproof your garage or at least help a fire from getting out of hand. Keep a fire extinguisher in or near your garage. Install a fire alarm in your garage.
Get a shed on your property where you can keep propane tanks and other flammable materials. If you cannot have a shed, find metal storage for the garage. Keeping your garage clean, organized, and free of frayed and exposed wires will help you avoid fire and keep any potential fires from getting out of hand.
Take some simple measures to avoid having a disaster in your garage and your house.
Appliances that are most likely to cause a water damage
Water Damage is most common during a storm situation or a broken pipe. One thing to keep in mind however malfunctions from appliances often happen as well. Pipe bursts or leaks as well as just common appliance mishaps can cause just as much if not more damage.
Hot Water Heater
Any sort of break or leak in a hot water heater can cause major damage. Performing yearly maintenance or check ups may seem costly or inconvenience, but that can be far less than cleaning up the flooding afterwards. If at any time you notice leaking from around the water heater, make sure you contact a repair company quickly. The sooner the issue is mitigated, the less damage you will need to repair.
Air Conditioners
Air Conditioners typically are located outside the home. Most homeowners/renters don’t feel like water damage can occur from them. However-a window unit or a unit that runs through a humidifier in the home can cause a water issue. Attic air conditioners can run the largest chance of becoming a water damage hazard. Keep an eye out for moisture and leaks and notify a professional to repair as soon as possible.
Washing Machine
Washing Machines hold a large amount of water, sometimes several times a day. Hoses typically are the largest source of water damage associated with washing machines. However, modern front load washing machines introduce another complication. Front door gaskets can get worn out and rip-causing water to flow out. Make sure your gasket and hose are in good shape with regular checkup. You will also want to watch out for clogged drains, this will cause the machine to not unload properly, causing an overflow issue.
Refrigerator
Leaky refrigerators are really an issue and can be a slower problem to address. Problems with the fridge could mean an issue with food inside as well as water damage. This is typically caused when a water line is either frozen or clogged in the defrost drain. Be sure to check your fridge on a regular basis to make sure the temperatures are right and you have no water coming out.
Dishwasher
The Dishwasher is a large cause of issues at the home. Drains, hoses and other connections can fail-leading to damage.
The older any of these appliances are, the more likely there will be function failures. Be sure to be aware of what state they are all in and check for damage. Life does happen and if you see an issue with any of these-contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac. We can walk you trough what needs to be done and what we can do to help you get your home back in order. Don’t wait to get help. The longer water is allowed to sit, the more time it has to spread and cause more costly damage.
The most common cause of dryer fires is failure to clean the vent regularly. The lent trap will typically get most of the fuzzy lent. The pieces that get through are what will cause a large amount of damage. There is typically a buildup in the line or around a heating element that will cause a fire.
Follow these tips to prevent Dryer vent fires
Clean out the lint and the vent pipe to reduce the chance of fire and to maintain the efficiency of the dryer.
Install with care. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing the vent pipe. A dryer vent fan should be installed by a licensed electrician.
Clear out combustibles. You want to keep anything flammable material away from your dryer. If it does start to overheat or smaller fire-it can escalate much quicker.
Be sure to use solid metal as your duct work.
Read tags. Follow care label reads tumble dry low, don’t turn the dryer up to high.
Use extra caution with flammable liquids. Wash clothing stained with volatile chemicals more than once—and definitely opt to line dry over machine dry.
Use your clothes to diagnose problems. Clothes that no longer feel dry or that are extra hot to the touch after a normal dry cycle are a telltale sign that something’s wrong. Before doing the next load, check for a plugged vent and clean out any lint.
Don’t leave your dryer running when you leave the house. Issues can be quickly resolved if there is someone there.
Give the outdoor vent a regular inspection. Make sure it isn’t clogged with lent or blocked by weeds, snow or even a nest.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here to help your laundry room get back to where you want it if something should occur. Large or small-we are here to do it all!
Fires are so destructive and extremely dangerous to businesses and employees. They threaten individual well-being and property. Commercial fires can happen due to a large variety of things. They are something every business or property owner wants to avoid dealing with. Being prepoared for these emergencies is the best way to keep individuals safe and get your business moving quicker.
Cooking/Heating
Restaurants have a higher likelihood of fire in their cooking area. Keeping cooking services clean, maintaining the Cooktop hoods properly as well as providing safety protocol for all heated services will help to avoid any issues. It is important to go over all risks and prevention measures with all staff. Having proper fire extinguishing equipment installed and located will keep damage to a minimum.
Lighting and Electrical Issues
Personal property or commercial, wherever electricity is involved-there is a risk of something going wrong. These could be from old wiring to overloaded fuses. The fault coming from electrical and lighting issues is large. Keep unqualified individuals away from working on circuitry and electrical. This is a good first step to avoiding risk to your business and staff. Make sure all electrical work is up to code and done by a professional properly.
Smoking
Most businesses now have smoke free facilities. Be sure to maintain these rules with all of the staff. Smoking should only be done in designated areas. This should only happen far away from any flammable services or liquids. Smoking devices should always be disposed of properly to avoid any accidental ignition.
Stay Calm. Contact your fire department. Make sure If you discover that your business is or has been the site of a fire, then stay calm, but act quickly. Make sure the building has been evacuated and that everyone is safe and accounted for.
When the fire is out and the area is safe, turn to the team that can help your business get back on its feet. With SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac, you will get professional help from technicians who are qualified to tend to fire-damaged commercial properties. They can make your business ready for clients, customers and your employees to get back to business.
When your community and your family rely on your business, you want to make sure it stays protected. Part of that protection is making sure issues like water don’t shut you down.
Be prepared
Start by anticipating what could happen. We can’t predict the future, but we can think of worst-case scenario. What do you do if a water main break? How do you keep employees safe? How do you prevent or eliminate business disruptions that could result from water damage? How do you keep communication lines open between management, staff and customers? How do you get your business back?
Make a plan
While thinking through possible commercial water damage scenarios for your business, you made notes of the solutions you came up with for your “what if?” questions.
Now put your plans into action to develop an emergency plan for your business. A good emergency plan should provide for the safety of all people who could enter your business, as well as procedures for carrying on with business during a variety of challenges.
It should include,
an emergency contact list (accessible from off-site)
emergency procedures
emergency staffing instructions
vendor lists and contact info
data backup plans and other resources to support business operations in case you have to temporarily or permanently relocate your business operations.
Stuff gets old. It breaks. It fails. When plumbing or water-management equipment in your commercial facility fails, the resulting water damage restoration costs can stack up fast. So the operative word for commercial water damage prevention is maintenance. Routinely inspect all visible plumbing, test sump pumps, check exterior gutters and downspouts, muck out drainage ditches and storm drains and ensure roof structures are in good repair.
Our area, just like many other areas-have experienced high water volumes this spring. When this happens-SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is ready to help. Our staff is fully trained with the proper equipment to keep Storm damage to a minimum.
Act Fast
When a flood happens, you need to act fast to dry out any wet items, particularly structural materials like walls and flooring.
Watch for Pooling Water
Look for places around your property where water pools, and channel it away from buildings. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and they are directing water as intended.
Raise Storage Goods
Use shelving and/or pallets to keep storage items off the floor to reduce the impact of small floods. In many situations, raising boxes just a few inches will be enough to keep storage goods above the water line.
Maintain Sump Pump
If you have a sump pump, check to be sure it is operational before water starts rising. Consider a back-up generator to ensure your pump works when you need it most. Contact your insurance agent to add coverage in case your sump pump fails.
Cut Power if Necessary
As rising water approaches the level of electrical outlets, you risk having a live current flow through all the water. Cut the power if you can safely do so without standing in water. Otherwise, evacuate and contact an electrician to cut the power before you go back in for recovery.
Keep Storm Drains Clear
If you see water pooling around a storm drain, the drain may be clogged with debris. Clearing the debris will help keep the water flowing away from your neighborhood.
Be Aware on the Road-Be extremely cautious
Be careful when driving during spring storms, especially when you hear flash flood warnings. Never drive into fully submerged roadway. The water surface will be at the same level as the pavement you can see. This view can deceive you into thinking the water is shallow because you cannot see how the road dips under the surface.
We are here to help. The Storm hits-don’t panic-contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac!
When a tree strikes, A window Breaks or Lightning hits.....We have your back!
Be mindful of Storm Damage to a Building:
Stay away from any damaged buildings or structures until authority has had a chance to examine it and determine that it’s safe.
Wait until daylight to return to buildings so it’s easier to see and avoid any hazards.
Leave your home or other building if you hear any shifting or strange noises- this could mean it’s about to fall.
If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave your house/building and contact emergency authorities right away!!! Don’t turn on the lights, light matches, smoke, or do anything that can cause a spark. Don’t return to the building until you’re told it’s safe to do so.
Keep children and pets away from the affected area until cleanup has been completed.
If electrical circuits and electrical equipment have gotten wet or are in or near water, turn off the power at the main breaker or fuse on the service panel. If you must enter standing water to access the main power switch, then call an electrician to turn it off.
Never turn power on or off or use an electric tool or appliance while standing in water. Ever.
Do not connect generators to your home’s electrical circuits without the approved, automatic-interrupt devices. If a generator is on line when electrical service is restored, it can become a major fire hazard and it may endanger line workers helping to restore power in your area.
If a storm hits, SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac can board up, tarp and work with you on cleanup/restoration projects. Get your home back to pre-storm status with our help.
We have the too.ls to do what you need to resolve your Large Loss !
How do you Choose a Large Loss Company?
When disaster strikes, we try to find any way to deal with it. Large loss situations are no different. They do, however, come with their own set of very unique and very difficult challenges. Resources required to repair and amount of damage are often much larger. Know what it takes to have success with a Large Loss Team and how do you choose them-
Generally speaking, a large loss event is one that stretches beyond one or two properties, to encompass an entire neighborhood, region or even larger area. Examples can include;
hurricanes/storm damage
widespread flooding
earthquakes
terrorist events
Look for Experience and Trained Teams
Any local restoration company can claim they know how to complete a large response. Only a few companies are truly equip to handle large loss. Ask all of your options for examples of their work and their strategies for clean up.
Look for a Large Team
A big loss requires a large and swift response. Make sure your prospective team has a large staff trained to properly respond, manage the project, and restore the affected structure or structures. This could be a local team in coordination with a large loss team brought in.
Look for Quick Response times
Flooding can cause major damage to your property in just 24 hours or quicker, so it’s critical that a disaster response team assess the damage and develop the plan quickly and efficiently. Make sure to choose a cleanup partner able to arrive within an hour of your phone call to assess. The way you handle a large catastrophic loss can have implications for years to come. Make sure you do things the right way. Use the above tips to find the right cleanup partner and you won’t regret making the wrong decision.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for any large loss needs or questions.
Our company was founded in Sacramento, California in 1967. Ted and Doris Isaacson launched as a painting business and soon decided to transform their company. The Isaacson’s developed their company into a cleaning and restoration business, quickly growing to sell their first franchise in 1969. The company has continued to grow. Headquarters was relocated to Gallatin, Tennessee in 1988-this was to make sure they were within 600 miles of 50% of the United States. SERVPRO Corporate has always been heavily involved in community services and was awarded “Small Business of the Year” in 1991.
Since then, every SERVPRO franchise has had a strong emphasis on community involvement. Every year our SERVPRO Franchise support several community and charity events. For SERVPRO Bloomington/Pontiac, this includes sponsoring several sport teams and gifts for The Baby Fold during the Holidays.
Our goal is to be a strong presence in the community we live in, shop in and are involved in. We share partnerships on social media and keep ourselves involved in local chamber of commerce. Supporting our community and local businesses is a huge part of helping our community thrive.
We are in some truly unique and different times. We do what we can to make sure that our communities know we are here to support them. Feel free to approach us with any questions.
Part of being prepared is to have a Storm Emergency Kit prepared. Below is a list of items that should be included in a basic Storm kit. Be sure to have the kit in a sealed container and in a safe location that if you have to take cover during a storm-you could still access.
Keep in mind specifics that may not be included: a toy for comfort, maybe a few family photo copies and safely sealed digital copies of important documents.
Supplies should Incude:
Backpack
Bottled Water
Non-Perishable food (Can Opener)
Eating utensils
Flashlight with extra batteries
First Aid Kit-with book
Tissues and Toilet with bags for disposal
Writing utensils and paper
Sleeping bags or Warm blankets-per person
Wrench or Pliers to turn off utilities
Personal Hygiene kits
Whistle to call for help
Battery powered radio and NOAA weather radio
Formula, Diapers and other supplies if you have a baby in the home
Dust mask to filter air
Extra pet supplies-if you have pets
Plastic Sheeting and Duct tape
A change of clothes for each person
Also include a jacket, hat, gloves and closed toe shoes for walking.
Rain gear/supplies
Cash
Paper Towels
Fire Extinguisher/Large baking soda
Cards/Games
Extra Zip close bags
Extra of any required medications as well as basic, over the counter medications.
Storm damages can turn life upside down. They happen at anytime and can really happen without much notice. Between heavy rain, powerful wind and lighting-you can never know what to exactly prepare for.
There are precautions that you can take to keep your family safe-but what do you do about properties? How do you prepare for the literal unknown? Heavy rains cause flooding. Winds can cause roof damage or even uproot trees. Lightning can spark a fire…...all in one swoop. Have a strategy. Stay calm-be ready.
It is important to act quickly and to stay safe.
Heavy winds and rain can create hazards such as collapsed roofs, window damages, damaged walls or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health issues.
Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. It may also be a good idea to shut main water valve off as well.
Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other hazards that can be around. Contact a local, reputable property restoration business to help do basic tasks to secure your property. If necessary, arrange for a place for you and your family to stay while your property is being restored.
Remember to: Photograph your damage and personal property items, contact your insurance company and look into federal disaster assistance if possible.
When a storm-related disaster strikes, it may seem overwhelming. But these steps can help you to begin the process of restoring your home, and your life, to normal.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac provides 24-hour emergency disaster services. We specialize in the mitigation and restoration of homes and businesses that have suffered small or large loss from water, flood, wind, storm, Fire and smoke disaster.
Fires are devastating for homes and/or businesses. When they break-they can move fast and without mercy. Home and Business owners are helpless to stop what is coming. We wait on our fantastic Fire Departments to arrive and work quickly to extinguish and keep people safe. Once the trucks leave, where do you start? Now there is fire damage, smoke damage and water damage-possible flooding.
Professionals that specialize in this type of cleanup work efficiently and quickly to get life back to normal. Your local SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has the experience, the professionals and the equipment to clean and restore almost anything. Our professionals have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and are able to remove smoke order and deep clean your upholstery/carpets of soot.
First thing is to always stay safe.
If you can still get into the building safely and want to start the process:
Limit movement and keep hands clean: this prevents soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
If electricity is off and it’s a situation where you are safely able to get into the building, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves and remove them from the home
Change HVAC filter.
Do Not….
Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting a Professional. It may actually do more harm. Also, if you don’t have to correct supplies-the long-term issues will mount up.
Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor or damage clothing.
The largest thing to keep in mind is to contact a professional. SERVPRO has the knowledge and know how to help you get back to pre-Fire condition.
Having your business properly cleaned plays a huge role in the message you want to send your clients/customers. Commercial carpets withstand more wear and tear then many homes. It’s important to have them professionally cleaned on a regular basis. This will provide a crisp, clean and healthier environment for anyone in the business.
So why is Carpet cleaning so important?
Keeping your business head of the game is hard and diligent work. Keeping your floors in top condition may not seem to be the top of the priority list…. but it should be close.
One reason is you want to make a fantastic first impression. The effort you put into presenting your business to the public shows the positive energy you want to portray. When you have visitors to your workplace, they could get an inaccurate idea about the business if you the first impression is a dirty carpet. Professional commercial carpet cleaning can improve and maintain the overall appearance of your building. This also helps your customers/clients relax and feel at home.
Another reason protects your investments. You can do a lot of your own, but there is just something about having that professional provide the two-step system to show how wonderful your carpets can look. You also want to always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on cleaning the carpet to avoid any issue with the warranty. Also- dirt, grime, dust and allergens can easily get trapped in carpet fibers and eventually can make their way into the air, which can lead to poor indoor air quality. Keeping duct work and carpets clean improve air quality quickly.
Scheduling maintenance cleanings from a professional company will help to maintain the carpeting and or your flooring-maybe you can postpone that replacement for a few years. Be sure to contact professionals if there are spots on the carpet that are not easily removed-they could be removed before anything permanent sets in. Regular cleanings can extend the life of your carpets, which could result in long-term savings.
Just like any other regular maintenance, flooring and carpet need to be cared for. As far as determining how often? That is something a few factors need to be taken into consideration.
Keep in mind the size of your business, what type of flooring and or carpet you have, how much foot traffic you have and what type of services your business provides. (we may want to clean the waiting room of a medical facility differently than a church.
Contact SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac for a quote on regular carpet or flooring cleaning-we will be happy to guide your business to the next level!
When the next water damage happens, is your business ready?
Broken water pipe, drain backed up, storm…no matter the reason-water damage can cause havoc for a business and needs to be resolved quickly.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is able to move in quickly. We are able to start removing the excess water and start the work of making things go back to normal.
We bring in air movers, wet vacuuming supplies, dehumidifiers and air scrubbers. These all will dry the affected areas quickly and thoroughly-minimizing further issues.
Air movers help to ventilate an affected area. They circulate air so that the moisture can be extracted by dehumidifiers. Dehumidifiers are an important piece of restoration drying equipment. Humid environments are ripe for the development of mold and bacteria. Businesses always want to maintain safe environments, so drying them quickly and effectively is important.
HEPA air scrubbers remove contaminants from the air. Air scrubbers are also important in mold remediation and prevention. When filtering mold spores from the contaminated environment, HEPA filtration ensures that even the smallest soot or mold particles are removed from the air safely.
Our Commercial Grade equipment can handle any size disaster. Contact our office when disaster hits. "Like it never even happened."
We are locally Owned. Locally Operated. Here for our community.
We are coaches. We are PTO members. We are neighbors. We are friends.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac works hard 24 hours a day/7 day a week/365 day a year to make sure our communities have what they need to continue moving forward. These communities give us far more than we can ever return. We see our sponsorship signs, know that the doughnuts are being eaten by those who have put in a long day and residents know that we are there. These make us hold our heads a little higher and keep working towards making “Like it never even happened.”
We love our community. This is our home. Let us know what we can do to help you.
Air Ducts in your home have a very essential job. Air in your home is circulated on a constant basis. The ducts located in that home keep the air flowing from your heating and cooling equipment.
But it’s not just the warm or cool that impacts your family. It will impact the air you breathe as well. How many hours do you spend inside every day? Does anyone in your home have respiratory related complications? This show how important it is to ensure the air is as clean as possible.
Air duct cleaning involves removing the dust and contaminants that has settled within the ductwork. This includes all areas of your air system. Areas include the supply and return air ducts as well as the registers in each room.
Air duct cleaning involves powerful vacuums that pull dust and debris from deep within, preventing it from moving and circulating throughout your home. If you’ve never had your ducts cleaned before, now may be a perfect time.
SERVPRO has the tools and knowledge to provide air duct cleaning-our Air Duct cleaning provides:
Creating a cleaner living environment
Improving your air quality
Reducing irritants in the air
Removing smells and odors
Improving efficiency
A cleaner system will ideally operate as efficiently as possible. This will give you a system that operates at peak efficiency and provides cost-effective performance as well as health benefits year round.
Trauma clean up isn’t an easy task to handle. If it’s done too quickly, without personal protection equipment, someone’s health could be at severe risk. But if the remnants of the crime are left in place for too long, there’s a greater risk of spreading the contamination or causing even more damage to the property and/or health.
Professional crime scene cleaning companies are the best source for reliable and safe biohazard cleanup.
When a home or office building has become a crime site, it can be difficult to know what one should and shouldn’t be doing.
Should you immediately start scrubbing everything?
Should you take personal possessions out of the area?
Professional trauma cleaners have answers to many of these important questions. They’ll coordinate with the law enforcement investigators and won’t get to work until the scene has been released. When you hire professionals, you won’t have to worry about inadvertently committing the crime of obstructing any investigation.
Cleanup is inherently dangerous work. Professional cleaners must undergo rigorous training. They learn how to use personal protection equipment properly and they must follow strict protocols during each job.
These precautions are necessary to protect themselves and the people who will be in the area afterward.
Proper trauma scene cleanup takes place as soon as possible after the police or medical professionals finish their investigation of the scene. If residue and fluids are neglected, the building itself can sustain further damage. With professional cleaning, these hazards can easily be avoided. If they are not done properly, more of the structure would have to be mitigated and rebuilt-causing further delay in time and money.
Work with professionals and get it done right the first time-It will make the process much easier for all whom are involved.
SERVPRO of Bloomington, Pontiac, Gibson City provides top notch 24-hour emergency services.
We are dedicated to being the fastest to any-sized disaster in Central Illinois. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration and/or cleaning needs. Our strengths include:
24-Hour Emergency Service
Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
High quality Fire Content and Structural Cleaning
Deodorization
Quality Equipment to efficiently Mitigate
Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
Locally Owned and Operated
Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
And many more!
Residential Services
Whether your Bloomington, Pontiac, Gibson City or in surrounding areas, if your home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned- you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services by visiting our web page.
WWW.SERVPRObloomingtonpontiac.com
Water Damage Restoration
Fire Damage Restoration
Mold Remediation
Storm Damage Restoration
Cleaning Services
Building/Reconstruction Services
Commercial Services
There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.
Electrical fires are frequently caused by overloading equipment and their circuits.
This can cause insulation to burn, create sparks and leave wires exposed…. dangerous. Do not overload electrical equipment by attempting to do heavier jobs than your equipment can handle. Keep areas around electrical equipment clear of combustibles such as sawdust, paper, cardboard and flammable liquids.
Oil and dirt buildup on electrical appliances can cause electrical equipment to overheat and short-circuit. When buildup does occur, quickly shut off electrical equipment and unplug its power supply. Use only clean, dry rags and brushes and follow manufacturer's instructions.
Shut off all electrical equipment that produces unusual sounds, unusual smells or sparks. (If it doesn’t seem “normal”, it probably isn’t)
Have the equipment checked by a qualified technician. Tag and remove hard-wired equipment from service so that it cannot be accidentally energized while it is being repaired or replaced.
Know locations of all emergency exits and fire escapes and know the escape routes from your work area and your home. Fire escape plans should be posted with exits clearly marked and practiced.
Know where the nearest fire extinguishers are and how to use them. Only Class C extinguishers are safe to use on energized electrical equipment.
Using simple common sense approaches can protect your work or home and everyone will stay safe.
There are often a lot of questions. How long do you have until your food is in trouble? What temperature is it not safe anymore?
Below are a few helpful hints on food in the power outage process:
Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as long as humanly possible. This will maintain the colder temperature longer.
The refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours if unopened.
A full freezer will keep the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.
Buy dry ice! This will keep the refrigerator as cold as possible if the power is going to be out for a prolonged period of time.
If you plan to eat refrigerated or frozen meat, poultry, fish, or eggs while they are still at safe temperatures, it is important that each item is thoroughly cooked to a safe. This helps to ensure that any foodborne bacteria that may be present are destroyed.
However, if at any point the food was above 40º F for 2 hours or more (or 1 hour if temperatures are above 90 º F) — discard it.
Be safe. Stay healthy. And hopefully your power is only out a shorter period of time.
How to protect yourself while dealing with a Water Damage.
How to protect yourself while dealing with a Water Damage.
The prospect of having to deal with a Water Damage claim is difficult enough. SERVPRO is ready to help and wants to make the process as painless as possible. When your pipes that burst, the sewage backs up or the toilets overflow-we have your back!
When your situation involves an insurance claim, there are a few things you may want to keep in mind. It can be tricky to claim full coverage on a water damage. If it is a situation where you can, make sure you protect your claim.
There are some main items to remember. First-Dry the area properly to eliminate creating further loss. Next, be sure to contact your insurer and always document every part of the situation.
When you have to handle a water damage situation, mitigate any further loss. Insurers want to know that the cause of water damage has been identified and resolved. When you then contact the insurer, make sure it is rather quickly-most companies require a claim to be called in within the first 24 hours. Not having the issue mitigated quickly or contacting the insurer too late, could risk a claim denial.
Documenting everything!
Document when, where and how of every part of the damage. Keep in mind-work may not begin on repair work until everything is approved. Take pictures, gather bids, keep receipts and research companies. Keep an open line of communication between your insurer, your repair company and yourself. These little reminders will help you get through any water damage with minimal stress!
Most business owners have plans for all types of emergencies. This is particularly important to protect their employees.
One such situation is in the event of a Fire. Where do employees and/or guest exit? How big is the building, are there multiple exits, are the employees trained on the quickest and safest routes? Be sure to begin with the basic plan and post them. Employees should be aware of these plans and practice on a regular basis.
Build a Fire Safety team. The size of this team will depend on the number of employees and size of the building. This team would be in charge of developing the Fire escape plans and executing training protocols. Your company, with the safety team, can be in contact with your local Fire departments. The local Fire Departments are the best resource to know what you should and shouldn’t do in Fire Emergency Training.
Things to keep in mind: Do you need a sprinkler system? Do you have Fire Extinguishers located in proper locations? Do you need Fire Blankets? Do you know what to do first? Do you have anyone with special needs taken care of?
Always keep in mind-you want to keep employees and guests safe at all times. Once everyone is safe-then you execute your plan to get back to Business!
What can happen to Vinyl Flooring with water damage
Can Vinyl flooring be damaged by water?
Absolutely!
There is a common myth about vinyl flooring. While it is a great way to cover a floor and has such a great variety available, there is a flaw. Most people are under the belief that vinyl flooring is safe from water damage. Unfortunately, this is very far from fact.
Vinyl flooring is water resistant but not water proof. What does this mean? It means that if you have spills, small leaks, etc. The clean up is easy and efficient. The problem is when moisture is allowed to get in between the seams and settle underneath. Days, weeks, months or up to a couple years later-the floor will start to show signs of damage. Anything from seams separating or planks popping loose to mold developing under the flooring.
While water damage problem is not as common with vinyl flooring as it is with other types of flooring products, they do often happen. Water damaged vinyl flooring problems are more common over concrete than with vinyl floors installed over wood substrates.
Over wood the problem is usually a water leak, flooding, or the underlayment was too wet when installed. Some signs of damage are discoloration, seams opening, bumps, bubbles, curing or adhesive deterioration.
Some more hidden issues are mold, mildew and bacteria build up. Surface moisture from mopping or the occasional spill should not result in water damaged vinyl flooring as long as the proper adhesive was used and the seams are properly sealed. Water should always be mopped up immediately and a floor should never be intentionally flooded.
Cared for properly-vinyl flooring will look beautiful and last a very long time.
When a business is forced to close due to disaster, long term effects can be tragic. Statistics show that an estimated 50% of businesses that close for such reasons never reopen.
SERVPRO has worked with local businesses for years to develop programs to have them ready. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac can come in and help set up an Emergency Ready Plan.
More than 60% of U.S small businesses have no formal emergency plans in place to minimize loss of business or quick recovery. There are a few things you can do to create a successful Emergency Ready Plan.
Start out by contacting professionals. Working with emergency restoration companies will help you create a plan to use that best works for your company. Be sure all of your Utility Shut-off locations are properly labeled. Identify all local emergency contact information including fire, police and hospitals.
The SERVPRO Ready Plan is a tool we have developed to aid our communities. We are a proven leader in our industry and strive to build our communities. We are a dedicated provider of emergency services-we strive to make it “Like it never even happened.” What we will do is go walk you through the process, take pictures, finish the booklet and hand it to the businesses. Free of charge. No obligation. It will hold all the information you need in an Emergency….at your fingertips.
Summer Outdoor living is like nothing else! Enjoy it safely!
Summer Outdoor Fire Safety
It’s Summer Time!
We want to remind our community of simple safety measures to keep your summer celebrations happy and safe.
Outdoor living becomes a large part of households over the summer. While this is a lot of fun, we do need to keep certain safety measures in mind.
Here are a few tips from experts on how to keep your cookouts fun and safe. Experts want everyone to keep in mind many common-sense practices. These include both fire safety and grilling safety.
Some of those fire safety and grilling practices include:
**DO NOT USE GASOLINE** or any other petroleum-based substance. These are actually explosive rather than being a proper fuel to build a simple fire.
Keep any flammable substances far and safely away from any fire or hot surface. This keeps any accidental spark or heat ignition, from happening.
Never leave a flame unattended. Be it firepit or BBQ Grills-never leave it unattended. Things can get out of control quickly.
Always follow campground fire-safety rules. If a fire ring is not available or you have not brought your own, be sure to select a spot on which to build a fire that is a safe distance (at least 15 feet) away and downwind from dry grass, trees, and tents.
Always keep the size of grill or pit fires to a manageable size. Keep them so that if you have a pail of sand, water, an extinguisher or baking soda nearby-you can keep it under control quickly.
Keep children and pets always at least 3 feet away from grills or campfires. And keep matches and lighters away from children at all times.
Always make sure that a fire is completely doused and out before leaving a campsite, covering the grill or retiring for the evening.
These are just a few helpful hints to keep everyone safe and have a happy summer.
SERVPRO Team working together to complete a cleaning
What can we do to help you?
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has been here for our community for over 40 years.
We know how to spot potential hazards to property and/or health. Our crews are trained on fire, water, mold and re-construction.
Our moto is “Like it never even happened.” And that’s what we strive to accomplish. We inspect sites to make sure any underlying issues are identified and corrected-so it’s done right the first time.
We work quickly and efficiently on every job, both our field crew and our office crew. We are built to reply immediately and work with full crews on clean-up around your schedule. We want to make sure damage is quickly resolved to prevent any long-term issues such as mold or mildew.
Our office team works hard to have crews to you when your schedule allows. They also will help you with your insurance claims from start to finish.
We have years of experience dealing with insurance companies. We know that filling out and submitting all the necessary paperwork can be confusing and sometimes overwhelming. We want to make this experience as painless as possible and you get paid quickly.
We also can help with the overwhelmingly daunting task of going through items to know what to keep and what is damaged beyond redemption. After any devastating event-we are here to help.
Mold can do a lot of damage in a very little area.
Don’t let it scare you too much. Know what to do and how to keep your family safe. Mold can make you and your family ill, it looks gross, it can weaken structure and disrupt the sale of a home.
If you think you may have mold, what do you do? Where do you start? Who do you call (if you need to)?
Start with testing. Start with know what you have, where you have it and educate yourself on what to do. No homeowner wants to hear that they have to test for mold. These tests can get expensive and we all hear the worst-case scenarios. If it turns out mold has developed-first you need to find the reason. Do you have a slow leak? Was it a large spill that just wasn’t cleaned up correctly? Is there a lack of venting in an area that needs more?
Mold removal. Makes your home look like a hazmat scene and can turn everything upside down. Typically, to clean mold you have to go down to the basics-that could be gutting a room…. or two…. or more-Ouch!
However-If taken care of early, cost could be very minimal. If you suspect an issue, it would be worth it to hire an inspection company. Keep in mind-It can get to the several hundred-dollar range. If you want to start small-you could buy a home mold testing kit ($10-50$)-but let the buyer beware, these kits have a reputation for being unreliable. This could be a soft start.
When you confirm that you do have mold, don’t panic. This may or may not be a major problem. Assess the situation and seek the advice of professionals. Smaller areas and issues, you may be able to do the work yourself. Always seek consultation of a professional before you attempt it all yourself. Be sure to research how to properly take care of your mold issue.
Avoid Scams. Just like any home cleaning, repair, etc- situations-there are those there to take advantage of the situations. Having different professionals and checking references/reviews will help get you on the right track. This can also help you to watch for price gouging. Price gouging happens more than anyone really realizes. An accurate Mold estimate can be difficult because there are so many variables, but having 2 or more can help give you an idea of where you should be. Make sure the company is licensed for these services as well.
The largest way to prevent a major issue is to stay aware. Check your pipes, check your vents, make sure things like your washing machine, dishwasher, tub/shower, etc. are draining correctly. Be on top of certain things around your home: Caulk around fixtures, clean your gutters, Caulk around your windows, Take care of roof leaks, check basements/crawlspaces/attics.
The main thing to keep in mind is that Mold can be fixed. Take care in taking care of your home!
Frozen pipes are a very real issue. There are so many ways to avoid this issue. Take proper precautions to avoid having to deal with this issue.
When the temperatures start to drop, our pipes start to fall for a risk of freezing then bursting. When a pipe bursts, the results can be catastrophic. Pipes are one of the most common causes of property damage during cold weather. The resulting water damage easily adds up to $5,000 or more.
Most risk areas are those in unheated spaces. Typically, these are basements, attics and garages-however, even pipes that run through cabinets can freeze. There are a few things that can be done to avoid any issues and additional cost.
*Pipe insulation is extremely inexpensive and easy to use. Use the insulation liberally and be sure to use it on any vulnerable pipes.
*Keep your garage doors closed, especially if you have any water supply lines that run through the garage. Just that little bit of barrier can make a large difference.
*Open cabinet doors in kitchen and bathrooms to allow for some warmer air to circulate if you have pluming behind those cabinets.
*Let the cold-water drip from a faucet linked to exposed pipes. Just a little bit of running water makes a large difference and helps prevent pipes from freezing.
*Keep the thermostat the same temperature at all times during the colder temperatures.
*Do not set your temperature any lower than 55° F, even if you plan on being away. Keeping the temperature stable will help prevent frozen pipes.
*Add insulation. This can be easily added to basements, crawl spaces and/or attics. What you are wanting to do is prevent drafts, seal cracks and eliminate any openings around windows, doors or anywhere air would come in. This will save on your energy bill as well!
*If you have a room that has pipes and seems to be colder, add a space heater to this room where pipes may be at risk. Please follow all safety regulations associated with the space heater and use caution.
If a pipe has broken-start by turning off the water at the main shutoff valve. This is usually at the water meter or where the main line enters the house. Contact SERVPRO to begin the clean up process and contact a licensed plumber
Working together is the best way to keep our Senior Citizens safe.
We all have Senior Citizen family, friends or neighbors-that we all keep an eye on. These individuals are special to us and to our families and we like to do what we can to ensure that they stay safe. Doesn’t matter if it is clearing their sidewalk for them or setting up pills for them, everything little thing is important.
Something many don’t think of is going over fire safety. Many enjoy the comforts of home and we do everything in our power to keep them in their home. Part of that includes their wellbeing. Again, we add rails to the bathroom and grips to rugs. However, have you made sure their smoke detectors work? Do you know that they are safe cooking? What else needs to be done to keep them safe and give you peace of mind?
Test Smoke Alarms Regularly and Have Proper Alarms
Smoke can be a silent killer, especially for Senior citizens. Individuals with hearing problems who tend to sleep without a hearing aid could be a victim. Having a working smoke alarm in every room and hallway is a great start, but they should be effective for the individuals. Strobe alarms are a great option. Seniors also can install alarms that shake the bed to rouse them in the event of a fire. Most importantly of all, make sure to test smoke alarms every month. This keeps them in compliance and makes sure the alarms they have are proper so they are always in compliance.
If They Smoke, Please Remind Them the Proper Place to Do So
Smoking is the number one cause of fire deaths in the country. Please remind senior citizens never to attempt smoking in bed. Falling asleep with a cigarette lit or dropping ashes onto carpet, covers or even clothing can cause an instant problem. Another hazard is to smoke near flammable oxygen tanks. Seniors should be using deeper or heavier ashtrays and avoid ashes flipping or falling onto a rug. The best way to put butts out is with sand, water or dirt. Take great care to make sure our friends, family and neighbors are safe.
Create a Fire Escape Plan
Seniors tend to have less than three minutes to escape in the event of a fire. Everyone should have a fire escape plan and practice it, knowing all the accessible exits and meeting areas. For seniors, especially those suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s who have escape proof doors, it is important they have a prearranged escort in the event of a fire. Making sure neighbors and family are aware of the plan and know where the escape routes are is to minimize injury.
Kitchen Safety
Seniors need to be willing and able to respond to an emergency in the kitchen while cooking. There are so many things that can cause injury in the Kitchen-Fire being one. Most kitchen fires begin because food is left unattended. If they must leave the kitchen while cooking, they should always turn the burner off. The kitchen should never be left unattended while there is food cooking-even if it is intended to be a short period of time. If for some reason they need to leave the kitchen-have a plan to always take a pot holder, spoon, towel or anything to remind them that they have something in the kitchen. A great reminder for seniors is to never cook with loose or dangling clothing that can easily ignite and potentially start a major fire.
Have a Whistle
Have their phone and whistle at bedside. The whistle lets people know where you are and gives you a way to warn others of the fire. Escape is always the top priority. Call the fire department when you are out. If trapped- use the phone to call for help. Seniors with wheelchairs or walkers should check exit routes ahead of time to be sure they are accessible or plan an alternate route. If impairment makes it impossible to escape in the event of a fire, discuss this concern with the landlord, family, neighbors or check with the fire department.
Don’t Overload Outlets or Extension Cords
This is a major fire concern. Having too many extension cords and too many items plugged in can easily spark a fire. Make sure no more than one major appliance is plugged into an outlet at a time and all outlets are kept responsibly used. If more outlets are required for a particular area, hire an electrician to install proper outlets.
More home fires start in the kitchen than anywhere else in the home. Cooking is involved in over 100,000 home fires every year. This number could be greatly reduced if people paid more attention when they cooked and practiced simple fire safety behaviors.
Dress to cook
While you may look good wearing a suit or a long dress, you’ll be safer if you wear clothing that’s more kitchen-appropriate while you’re cooking. Loose and long clothing can accidentally catch on fire. If you ever noticed a cooking apron, it has cut-off or shortened sleeves, and it has string that is meant to keep the apron and your clothes tight to your body.
Use appliances carefully
Kitchen appliances can cause fires if not used and maintained correctly. Keeps your cords away from oil and liquids. Remove food debris and oil from the appliances. Replace your power cords if they are damaged in some way. If an appliance is malfunctioning, stop using it and get it fixed or replaced.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby
In the event of a fire, an extinguisher can quickly stop it from spreading. Don’t have the extinguisher stored too close too the stove, as that can make it hard to reach during a stove fire. Ensure that you know how to use it, too.
Be prepared
In addition to having, and knowing how to use, a fire extinguisher, you need to know how to react in case of a fire. Don’t use water to put out the fire, and don’t attempt to transfer a burning pot or pan to the sink—doing so can unwittingly cause the fire to spread. Quickly use an extinguisher if you have one. If the fire is getting out of control, quickly leave the home and call the authorities.
Don’t leave the kitchen
The main culprit of kitchen fires is an unattended stove. If you have things cooking, don’t leave the kitchen. If you must leave, turn off the stove or oven, and remove your pots and pans from the heat. If your eyes are on the stove, you will vastly reduce the chances of a fire occurring in the kitchen.
Keep the stove top clean and clear
A cluttered stove area can cause a fire. Kitchen towels, paper, appliance cords, uncovered oil, and other flammable items need to be kept away from the stove top. Be sure to clean the stove top regularly. Food debris and leftover grease can easily ignite with enough heat. Also, before you begin cooking, remove excess oil and grease from the exterior of your pots and pans.
Be careful with cooking oils
Avoid using an oil with a low smoke point for high heat cooking, as it can catch fire. Also, don’t carelessly discard hot cooking oil. Many fires have been caused by putting hot oil in a garbage can with other flammable items.
Kitchen fires can occur for a variety of reasons. However, if you apply these kitchen fire prevention tips, you will greatly reduce the chance of your kitchen catching on fire.
The first stage of a thunderstorm, called the developing stage, occurs when a cumulus cloud is pushed upward by air. In the developing stage there is not usually much rain but lightning can be seen.
The second stage of a thunderstorm, called the mature stage, occurs when the rising warm air reaches warmer air and it spreads out into a 'cap'. This creates frozen water droplets that fall to the earth, melting along the way - unless the updraft is very strong which creates hail. It is during this stage that lightning and thunder and strong winds and rain occur.
The third stage of a thunderstorm, called the dissipating stage, occurs when a downdraft pushes to the ground essentially cutting off the thunderstorm's inflow.
The multi-cell cluster thunderstorm is the most common type, characterized by inner mature storms at the center and dissipating storms around the outer edge, and can include weak tornadoes.
The multi-cell line thunderstorm is characterized by a line of severe thunderstorms that are either in front of or part of a cold front, and can include hail, strong wind, tornadoes and waterspouts.
The super-cell thunderstorm is characterized by extremely strong wind, powerful updrafts, very severe weather, and strong tornadoes. Most tornadoes originate in this type of storm.
The severe thunderstorm is characterized by strong winds, funnel clouds and sometimes tornadoes.
The sound of thunder is made when lightning's heat flash causes the air to expand rapidly, and then shrink rapidly. This violent air disturbance causes the sound of thunder.
To be classified as a thunderstorm lightning must be present.
People often hide under trees to escape thunderstorms. It's a dangerous place because trees are often struck by lightning.
Thunderstorms often occur in warm, humid conditions.
Some thunderstorms look like cauliflower in the atmosphere.
The hail produced in some thunderstorms breaks windows, kills wildlife, and even dents cars.
Lightning isn't the only danger caused by thunderstorms. They can also produce flash floods, strong damaging winds, and fires.
As soon as thunder is heard it is best to find safe shelter. Thunderstorms can begin very quickly and if you are able to hear the thunder then you are close enough to be struck by the storm's lightning.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as many as 10 percent of American homes are losing 90 gallons of water each day due to leaky pipes. That is 177 billion gallons of water each year.
Ceiling stains
Sloshing some water out of the bathtub and onto the floor won’t cause enough water seepage to damage your ceiling. The internal pipes that carry water to that second-floor bathroom, however, definitely can if they’re leaking along the way.
Rusty pipes, fuse boxes or appliances
Discoloration, stains, dimpling, and flaking are all signs that your pipes may be corroding. If you notice rust occurring around pipes, this is a clear indication of water damage. If you notice your fuse box is starting to rust or collect moisture, that’s another big red flag that water is running free inside your walls.
Damaged flooring
Bathroom floors rarely suffer water damage unless there is a leak. However, if you notice your floor buckling, staining or cracking, hidden water may be the source.
Wet spots, spongy or soft flooring and loose tiles could all be signs of water damage. Whether the water came from a pipe underneath the floor or traveled there from another area, look into it as soon as possible before the current water damage causes a bigger issue.
Paint or wallpaper discoloring
As moisture seeps into your walls, the paint will start showing signs of damage. You may notice peeling, discoloration, blistering or even cracks and warping.
Since drywall and wood readily absorb moisture, water breaks down the fibers and causes them to feel spongy and soft. If you notice chalky textures, changing wall paint or signs of peeling, water damage is most likely the culprit.
Persistent odors
The most common odor associated with water damage is a musty, mildew smell. While you may be able to detect the source of the scent, it’s not always obvious.
Fire damage restoration is a task that should only be tackled by professionals.
The aftermath of a fire is not only a charred mess, but it can also include water damage and structural damage necessitated by firefighters to controlled and assure a fire is extinguished.
Fire-retardant chemicals, soot and smoke damage permeate the area and can create toxicity that must be handled with care to prevent health issues.
Professionals can maximize salvaging your belongings and prevent further damage.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Normal will come to your aid as soon as the fire is extinguished by emergency personnel. We will work quickly to assure your property is secure through our board up services.
Once the fire services are done controlling the fire, our experts carefully and efficiently inspect the site for damage. They will classify the damage according to the cause i.e. fire, water, chemicals, and smoke. After determining the type and level of damage, we shall create a custom detailed report and generate a restoration plan. We will work with you closely throughout the restoration process.
Eliminate smoke odors
We will eliminate smoke and odors from the site. Smoke is corrosive and may cause further damage to your possessions and so it is imperative to eliminate it first.
Remove residue
We remove soot from the entire structure as well as removing wet carpets to discourage mold growth.
Protect undamaged property
There may be parts of your property that were not affected by the fire. The restoration team will seal off these areas to avoid damage from smoke, soot, and odors. Items in these areas will be moved to a storage facility through inventory and packing to ensure their well-being and safety.
Repair
We will repair, replace, and repaint the affected areas. The items damaged beyond repair shall be filed in an inventory which we will follow up with your insurers. Belongings that can be cleaned are restored.
Water damage in your home or business can be caused by a variety of things. From natural disasters to malfunctioning plumbing systems. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here to clean up water damage of any size.
Water damage can be very frustrating. Our advanced equipment helps to detect hidden moisture, extract the standing water quickly, and thoroughly clean and dry your home and belongings. We finish the job with professional deodorization and sanitizing agents for your comfort and safety. We will remove the affected materials, deodorize, and restore your home or business to its original condition.
Repair
Our first step is to resolve the cause of the water. Whether it’s a leaky dishwasher, broken supply line, or sewage backup, the restoration process begins with fixing the problem. Without identifying and resolving the cause of the water damage, you will only have more problems in the future.
Water Extraction
Once the cause of the water is fixed, we can remove standing water and sewage from the affected areas. Depending on the specific damage, water extraction may take place after removal and disposal.
Removal and Disposal
We then inspect the damage and remove materials that cannot be restored. This may include materials like plaster, drywall, ceilings, carpeting, and carpet padding as well as personal items affected by the damage. Unfortunately, furniture, paper-products like books, magazines, and newspapers, and other porous items may need to be discarded.
Dry Out
After disposing of materials that cannot be restored, we use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out areas and materials that can be salvaged. We closely monitor our equipment to ensure the fastest drying time possible and prevent further damage. Dry out may take several days depending on the extent of the damage.
Reconstruction
The final step to water damage restoration is rebuilding and restoring your home or business to its original condition. This may include hanging new drywall, laying new carpeting, installing new cabinets, and refinishing hardwood floors. It may be necessary to replace damaged appliances or fix structural issues with your property as well.
Workplace fires injure many workers each year. Their injuries lead to untold tumult, disrupting their lives and their families. Even in those fortunate cases where no one is injured, the property damage caused by fire can be enough to bankrupt many businesses. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that fires cost industrial and manufacturing employers alone over $1 billion in property damage each year.
Establishing and maintaining fire protection in the workplace
Make a periodic clean-up of entire work site and keep grass and weeds under control.
Regularly dispose of combustible debris and scrap from your work area.
Use only approved containers and tanks for storage, handling, and transport of combustible and flammable liquid.
Always perform evaluation procedures before performing operations that present fire hazards like welding.
Never pile or lay material in a way that it covers or blocks access to firefighting equipment.
Make sure to use only approved containers for the separation and disposal of combustible refuse. Remember to always replace the lid.
Never store flammable materials within 10 feet of a building or other structure.
Stack and pile all materials in orderly and stable piles.
Never let unnecessary combustible materials get accumulated in any part of your work area.
Safety measures for workplace fire equipment
Prohibit smoking at or around work areas where fire hazards are present. Put up signs, saying no smoking signs or open flames.
Configure an alarm system that consists of both visual and audible signals (bells, sirens, whistles, blinking lights).
Post reporting instructions and local Fire Department codes on info boards, common areas, and areas near the phone.
First, inspect and maintain fire fighting equipment regularly.
Place an adequate number of firefighting equipment in plain view in your work areas. When appropriate, label the location of each one and make sure it is properly rated.
Provide employees with proper training in fire prevention and protection.
A thunderstorm is an atmospheric disturbance that involves lightning and thunder. It may be accompanied by torrential rain, hail or high winds. A severe thunderstorm can cause flooding, fires, power failures and electrocution, and result in serious damage.
While surges due to thunderstorms are rare, you should at the very least unplug your high-ticket electronics, like your TV, computer and gaming console.
Be safe
An important thing to remember when pulling the plug on your electronics, is that you can be electrocuted if you touch a cord during a surge. It's best to unplug items before a storm gets to your area.
Will a surge protector help?
Many people think that surge protectors that you plug into the wall will save their electronics from power surges due to storms, however that is not the case.
Surge protectors are meant to protect against common, small surges in the electrical grid that happen from time to time. They can help reduce the power surge before it reaches your device, but they are not designed to protect items from the massive surge of electricity that happens from a lightning strike during a storm.
What can protect your devices during a storm is a whole house surge protector or suppressor. These are much more expensive than an outlet surge protector and are meant to be installed on your house's main electrical panel.
Water damage can cause big problems for homeowners. It can be a sneaky issue that many people don’t discover until it has become a big, expensive problem.
Water has the potential to damage your home beyond affordable repair, with heavy structural consequences that include mold, wood rot, and even foundation cracks. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch it early and stop it before it spreads. But even small leaks that allow rainwater into the house can cause major problems.
The best way to deal with water damage is to stop it before it starts. Here are some measures that you can take to prevent water from entering your home from outside.
House Exterior
The exterior of your house is its first line of defense against water damage. Protect your home from the outside in by maintaining the exterior.
Roof
Your roof should keep water out of your house. Neglecting it could lead to a whole host of problems, the worst of which includes extensive water damage that could compromise the structure of your home. Most roofs have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, but that is no guarantee that it will last that long. Climate, weather conditions, and even nearby trees can cause damage to roof shingles. Periodically check for damaged, loose, or missing shingles.
Windows and Doors
Water can seep in through the space around window and door frames if they’re not properly sealed. Don’t wait for a leak. Inspect the outside of your windows and doors. Any large cracks between the frame and the house can be injected with insulating foam sealant. A fresh coat of paint on window and door frames can block moisture from penetrating the wood.
Proper Drainage
You can take measures to keep water out of your home, but waterproofing alone isn’t enough to protect your home from water damage. If water isn’t properly diverted away from the base of your house, your foundation could be at risk. And even the best waterproofing measures are no match for standing water that collects on or around your house in areas of poor drainage.
Gutters
Depending on surrounding tree coverage, gutters need to be cleaned out two to six times a year to ensure proper flow of rainwater.Making sure your gutters function properly is critical to protecting your home from water damage. If your gutters are full of leaves and pine needles, or not angled properly to funnel water to the downspout, then water will run down the side of your house and collect at the base, which could put your foundation at risk.
Check Your Downspouts
Downspouts should direct water at least three feet from the exterior walls of a home.Gutters send water out through the downspout, which should funnel the water away from your home. If the downspout doesn’t extend far enough, then it could instead be funneling water directly into a puddle at the bottom of your house.Downspouts should extend at least two to three feet from the house. If your downspout is long enough, but you can still see water collecting at the base of your house, then you may need to install a drainage pipe.
While flooding, water damage and mold are always a concern in the basement of your home or business, preventing a fire is just as important. Here are some tips to help keep your basement safe from a possible fire.
A smoke alarm should be installed in the basement.
Basement smoke alarms should be cleaned once a month to remove dust build-up. This ensures that it works properly throughout the year. In addition, the basement smoke alarm should be connected to the other smoke alarms in the home.
Install a carbon monoxide alarm as well, especially if there is heating equipment that burns gas, oil or wood in your basement.
Flammable materials.
Materials such as debris, paper, and textiles, should be kept away from heating equipment. Oily rags should be put in airtight containers and away from heat sources. Trash should also be kept out of the basement.
Equip your basement with arc-fault circuit interrupters.
These devices prevent fires in electrical switches from occurring by shutting off the circuit when an unintentional arc (discharge of electricity) occurs within the circuit.
Keep the stairs free of clutter.
This will provide less fuel for a fire and to be able to quickly escape the basement in case of an emergency.
According to the National Fire Protection Agency, over 10,000 house fires reported annually are attributed to clothes dryers and washing machines and caused millions of dollars in property damage. Numbers like this are not uncommon for any year in the U.S., yet many people are unaware of the hazards or the simple steps which can prevent them.
Possible Fire Hazards
Visible Lint buildup in the dryer’s lint trap
Unseen Lint buildup inside the dryer, from lint which gets past the trap
Unseen Lint which collects inside the dryer hose
Dryer hoses which are crushed or kinked by cramped dryer-to-wall spaces
Outside vents blocked with lint buildup, rodent nests, bird’s nests, objects or materials placed too close to the vents, and other obstructions
Flammable Items inside laundry appliances, including plastic or rubber items like bath mats, diaper pants, clothing items padded with foam rubber, or items with flammable chemicals like rags soaked with oil or gasoline
Friction from slipping power belts caused by worn belts or excessive loads
Flammable materials or debris allowed under or too close to laundry appliances.
Prevention
Always clean out the lint trap between every dryer load
Keep the areas under and behind your washer and dryer clean and uncluttered
Keep the area near the outside dryer vent clear of stored materials or objects which could impede or block the dryer’s exhaust
Remove the outside dryer vent cover on a regular basis and inspect the space behind it for obvious debris. However, obstructions in these wall spaces are not always visible. So, you should have a professional check and clean these on a regular basis.
Have a professional inspect the dryer and clean out any invisible lint buildup on a regular basis.
Have a professional clear the dryer hose of lint on a regular basis
If you’re unsure of the safety of your washer or dryer, never leave the house or go to bed after starting a load of clothes.
On average, lightning causes more deaths in the U.S. than tornadoes, floods, or hurricanes. One study puts lightning deaths in the U.S. at 7,741 between 1940 and 1981. And some research suggests that these numbers may be too low by 30 to 50 percent. Illinois experiences about 2-3 deaths and 8 serious injuries per year.
Lightning heats the surrounding gases in the air to around 50,000 degrees! This causes a rapid expansion of the air which produces thunder. A single lightning stroke also contains an enormous amount of electricity, enough to supply power to several homes for a month. The heat and electricity pose the greatest risk to the individual. Most lightning deaths and injuries occur when people are caught outdoors.
Stay alert for fast-changing weather conditions. It does not have to be raining where you are for lightning to be a threat. Many people are struck before the rain begins or after it ends at their location.
Avoid being the tallest object in the area, and stay away from other tall objects such as a small group of tall trees.
Unplug all unnecessary appliances and stay off the phone.
Get inside a sturdy building. Do not stand by open windows, doors or on patios during a thunderstorm.
Get off farm equipment, golf carts or other open vehicles. A hard top car with the windows shut is relatively safe
Use the “flash to bang” technique. Sound travels about 1 mile every 5 seconds. When you see the lightning count the seconds until you hear thunder. If 5 seconds elapse, the thunderstorm is one mile away. Ten seconds equals two miles and 15 seconds means the lightning bolt was three miles away.
What is a “safe” distance from lightning? There is no absolute rule, but consider taking prompt protective action if lightning is occurring within 3 miles of your location. Be aware that lightning can strike the ground ten or more miles away from the thunderstorm with blue sky above!
Lightning may be about to strike near you if you feel your hair stand on end or your skin tingle. Crouch down or drop to your knees, but do not lie flat on the ground.
If water builds up in a crawl space, a professional water damage restoration company should be called immediately. The experts at SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac have been tackling crawl space water for over 30 years. The excess water in a crawl space can come from a number of different sources.
A leaking kitchen waste line
A leaking sewer drain line
Flooding coming from a nearby river, brook or stream
Sprinkler water coming through the vents of the crawl space
A naturally occurring high groundwater table
Gutter downspouts that are directed incorrectly
Homeowners watering their plants and foliage too frequently
Swimming pool leaks on rare occasions
Water or damp soil in the crawl space area has the potential to cause extensive water damage, structural problems and health concerns. If your home has a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) duct system in the crawlspace and it becomes affected by the moisture, it can spew unhealthy air into your home or business. The moisture can increase microbes in the air and create dangerous particles which can be harmful to breathe.
Crawl space water can also provide an area for mold to grow that can spread to inhabited areas, not to mention causing sub-floors to buckle and warp under the humidity the water causes. Should a sewer line in your crawl space rupture, the raw sewage that gets released into the crawl space can cause horrible odors in the living space of a home, as well as possible health concerns from taking in sewer gas.
At SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac we know the massive damage a fire can do to your home. Smoke touches everything in your home. Even in a small house fire, smoke can damage your entire home. Odors from smoke can cling to every room and your personal belongings can smell like smoke as well. The soot from the fire can damage your walls, even if they were not touched by the flames.
Smoke Remediation is an important part of restoring your home after a fire. Smoke odor can linger for years without proper remediation. If your home has been damaged by fire, it is important to contact a professional that specializes in smoke remediation.
At SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac, we are experts in smoke remediation and odor removal. A house fire can be devastating and we understand the need to make your house into a home again.
24/7 emergency board-up service
Prompt damage assessment and estimates
Property removal, cleaning and storage of your personal belongings
Cleaning, including removal of debris, water extraction, disinfection and dehumidifying
Smoke remediation, which includes odor removal and ozone treatment to remove harmful toxins in the air.
Restoring your home – structural repairs, painting, floor restoration and refinishing
We work hard to restore your home after a disaster. Our highly trained smoke remediation specialists and decades of experience means we can work with you and your insurance company to completely restore your home in a timely manner.
The best way to control mold growth in commercial buildings, office buildings, manufacturing areas and schools is to prevent moisture problems before they start. Here are some tips to reduce water and moisture and keep your commercial property free from contamination.
- Fix any plumbing leaks as soon as possible. Standing water is a prime cause of mold growth.
- Watch for condensation and wet spots around your building foundation, roofs or ceilings.
- Keep any heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean and flowing properly. Be sure that regular building/HVAC inspections and maintenance are scheduled and performed.
- Dehumidifiers can help indoor humidity. It should be below 60% relative humidity or 30-50%, if possible.
- Keep your foundations dry. There should be proper drainage away from the building foundation. If rainwater continues to enter your basement from the outside, mold growth can occur.
In many cases, the inspections and mold removal work can be performed during a business or school’s off-hours in order to limit any disruptions.
In central Illinois each season brings its weather-related threats, including heavy wet snow or ice storms in the winter, thunderstorms and lightning in the spring and summer, and wind and heavy rain in the fall.
By making some simple preparations, you can make outages less stressful for your family and yourself.
Keep your power company phone numbers by the telephone.
Keep a storm kit ready. You should not wait until a storm is bearing down on central Illinois to prepare a kit, because some outages happen with little warning. Storm kits should include the following:
A first aid kit and family prescription medications.
Extra blankets for each member of the family.
At least one regular (corded) phone. The convenience of cordless phones has made them very popular, but they stop working when the power goes out. A corded phone will still work during most outages, allowing you to call out for information and to report the outage. Even if you have a cellular phone, keep in mind that the backup power to cell towers may shut down if the outage lasts long enough.
At least one battery-operated radio. During lengthy outages (six hours or more), local radio stations can become increasingly important sources of information.
At least one flashlight for every member of the family.
Batteries for your flashlights and radios.
Canned food for three days and a non-electric can opener. Most outages are over in hours, of course, but severe storms may leave damage that last several days. In most instances, having a three-day supply of food will take a family through the worst of the storm. For obvious reasons, families will want food that does not require heating or refrigeration.
Three gallons of drinking water per family member. A healthy adult will need one gallon of water per day, so this will prepare your family for a three-day outage.
When a storm is on its way, gas up your car before it arrives. During widespread disasters, gas stations may not have electricity to pump gasoline.
If you have a medical need for electricity, make sure your power company knows. During lengthy outages, most power companies makes an extra effort to provide updated outage information to those members who need electricity to power oxygen pumps or other medical equipment.
If you have a medical need for electricity, have a relocation plan which answers the following questions:
What services, electrical and otherwise, must I have to protect my health in an emergency?
Where will I go to find those services if my home is without power for more than a few hours?
Who will take me there in an emergency?
Have I made sure that person knows I am relying on them for transportation in an emergency?
Among the top five sources leading to water damage is your hot water heater. A small investment in an annual inspection will help prevent leaks and the expensive repairs that come with it. Be attentive to corrosion and other factors as your heater ages and replace it every 10 years.
69 percent of failures are due to a leak or burst.
After 12 years, 75 percent of hot water heaters will fail and cost an average of $4,000 in damage.
Flush your tank every 6 months to remove sediment.
Air Conditioner
Installing a drainpipe will remove the overflowing water and direct it outside or to a household sewer. This is an alternative to using a drain pan, which will only help contain any leaks that may occur for about two minutes.
Attic air conditioners can cause the most damage because water can leak throughout the entire home.
Washing Machine
Leaks around or clamps in the water hose are a warning sign of future failure. Do a monthly personal inspection on your hoses to look out for cracking, dryness or rust, leaving space between the machine and the wall for movement as the wash cycle is running. Replace your hoses every five years despite their outward appearance. Don’t forget to follow your washing machine instructions and turn off the water supply when you leave home for vacation!
6 % of failures occur when a home is unoccupied and end up being two and a half times more severe than a house that is occupied.
78 percent of hose failures occur in an appliance that is less than 11 years old.
Refrigerator
The most common cause of a leaky refrigerator is the defrost drain having a freeze or clog. You’ll need to thaw the ice and flush your drain with hot water. Improper sealing can cause excess condensation in attempt to keep cool. Check the rubber seals along the door to assure a tight close. Your ice maker can become the mess maker, check the hose or waterline to assure they are connected properly.
Dishwasher
Hoses, valves, switches are the plumbing connections that could be causing the puddle of water on your floor. Let’s not forget that dishwashers are manually run and an overflow of water can come from adding too much detergent to each cycle. If your dishwasher is over 9 years old it may be time for a replacement.
Mold can be very elusive, growing undetected in cracks and even within the walls of your home. A thorough mold inspection of your property must be performed to locate potential mold infestations as well as the source of water fueling the mold growth.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac will conduct a visual examination of the structure as well as use advanced technology like infrared cameras and moisture readings of surrounding structures to detect excessive moisture. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac employ mold remediation protocols that meet state and local building codes to ensure complete eradication.
It is critical to ensure that mold removal is complete. Ineffective mold removal will result in continued mold growth and the need for additional mold remediation services in the future. Clearance testing after mold remediation services ensure that the mold removal is successful and that mold is no longer a problem.
Mold remediation is a job that demands prompt attention. Mold often creates a musty odor and mold can create serious health complications. If you don’t actually know how to go about the process of mold removal and cleaning, attempting to get rid of it on your own could actually make the problem worse while putting your own health at risk.
We specialize in water and mold damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We have the training and expertise to safely handle any mold situation.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac employees live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, we are close by and ready to help with your mold damaged property.
If you suspect mold in your central Illinois home or business, call us today 309-827-7500
How should you clean your commercial carpet to keep it looking good and give it the longest possible lifespan?
Vacuuming
Regular vacuuming is one of the most effective (and cost-effective) ways of removing dirt from your carpeting. But you have to make sure it’s done right. That means using the right vacuum and going slowly over the carpet in both east/west and north/south directions.
How often should you vacuum your carpets?
For heavy traffic areas like entrances and ground floor halls, you’ll definitely want to vacuum daily.
Areas with medium traffic like general offices areas or corridors should ideally be vacuumed daily, or at least 3-4 times a week.
Lower traffic areas like conference rooms and executive offices can usually be done weekly, unless they see a high amount of traffic.
Spot Cleaning
Individual stains can really diminish the usable life of carpet. Removing dirt is one thing, but getting out a stain that’s set can be a real challenge. Stains can also create quite an eyesore, which will often compel managers to replace the carpet sooner than they would otherwise.
The key to preventing such stains is spot cleaning. The sooner you can treat the stain spot, the better your chances of successfully removing it.
For heavier stains like dyes, glue residue, and even ketchup and mustard, you may need to call on a professional.
It’s also a good idea to have someone regularly check your carpeting for any stains to spot clean them. You can also have this done as part of a carpet preventative maintenance program (more on that below).
Preventative Cleaning
The best method to keep your carpet looking good and lasting long is having a preventative cleaning program. This is a program where your carpet is professionally cleaned at regular intervals (which may differ for different areas based on the state of the carpet, usage, and traffic).
Like regular vehicle maintenance, the idea of a preventative cleaning program is to invest a little to keep your carpet in good shape so you can avoid big, costly restorative cleanings down the road. Preventative cleanings will also keep your carpets looking cleaner for longer.
How often should you have preventative cleaning done?
For heavy traffic areas like entrances and ground floor halls, you want preventative cleanings 12-24 times a year. The more the better, but at least once a month.
For medium traffic areas like administrative offices or above ground halls, 4 times a year (quarterly) is the ideal frequency.
For lighter traffic areas like boardrooms and conference rooms, twice a year should do the trick.
Protect your investment by contacting SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac to clean and maintain your commercial carpet. 309-827-7500
Commercial properties present unique situations that require unique solutions. While the jist of water damage restoration is the same whether it’s a residential property or a commercial building, the urgency and scope of work can be different when you’re talking about a commercial property. At SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac, we have crews specifically trained to handle commercial water damage cleanup services that you might need. From start to finish, we help you get your business back up and running fast and affordably.
Commercial water mitigation companies need to understand the importance of quickly getting your business operational. They need to have the equipment and team available to respond in force given the scale of most commercial water losses. At SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac, we are fully capable of handling any size commercial water damage in central Illinois that you might have.
Providing water damage repair services in a commercial building can be tricky given the scale of the damage. It requires properly trained technicians armed with the right equipment. Continued business down time can put a big dent in your bottom line.
If you experience a commercial water loss in central Illinois call us 24/7/365
A fire in your garage isn’t something most property owners need to consider. Be that as it may, actually a great many carport fires happen each year in the USA. What’s more, if your carport is joined to your home, this can be particularly tricky.
Flames aren’t constantly unsurprising. Be that as it may, you can find a way to diminish the danger of a fire breaking out in your garage.
Electrical Problems
Electrical fires are very common. Electrical malfunctions are the number one cause for house fires in the US, and they often start in the garage. These fires can start from blown circuits, overloaded electrical outlets, faulty wiring, exposed wiring, and other ways. Keep track of all of your electric wiring—don’t leave electronics plugged in, don’t use extension chords long term, have your wiring checked regularly. Exposed wires can be chewed through by mice and other pests and be left exposed—making them a fire hazard. If you live in an older home, we recommend that you have your wiring checked to ensure that you are not in danger of an electrical fire.
Clutter
When there is clutter in your garage, a fire still spread quicker. But the truth is—the garage is often the place where we collect our clutter. It is so easy to throw your clutter in the garage where it is out of sight and out of mind. This clutter that piles up in the garage not only makes it hard to navigate through your garage, but it can also mean a bigger fire. If a fire starts in your garage, it can spread much easier with clutter. As the clutter catches fire, it spreads fast.
Flammable Liquids
The garage tends to be full of flammable liquids that are potential fire hazards. These liquids may include oil, cleaning solutions, and gasoline. The storing of these liquids is not necessarily dangerous, but they become dangerous if they come in contain with a spark. It may be best to store these liquids in a shed separate from your home, if possible.
Propane Tanks
Propane is often stored in the garage as well. These tanks shouldn’t be a problem as long as they are sealed properly. If the tank is leaking, any small spark could ignite an instant fire that can quickly get out of hand. Aside from starting a fire, if a fire has started, a propane tank will certainly fuel it.
To prevent potential danger, it is probably best to store propane somewhere away from your house—like a shed or to avoid having extra propane. You can just buy it when you plan on using it. Storing it can be dangerous for your house.
Prevention
Garage fires tend to get out of hand quickly. To avoid a potentially disastrous fire, there are a few things that can be done to fireproof your garage or at least help a fire from getting out of hand. Keep a fire extinguisher in or near your garage. Install a fire alarm in your garage. Get a shed on your property where you can keep propane tanks and other flammable materials. Keeping your garage clean, organized, and free of frayed and exposed wires will help you avoid fire and keep any potential fires from getting out of hand. Take some simple measures to avoid having a disaster in your garage and your house.
Enforce no smoking policies in all areas inside your building. Regardless of what the commercial property is used for, smoking should not be allowed inside the building at any time. Post no smoking signs in all common areas and make the no smoking policy very clear when a new employee or tenant enters the building. You can have designated areas for smokers outdoors, a safe distance away from the building. These areas should be fitted with fireproof containers where people can safely dispose of ashes and cigarettes.
Install automatic sprinklers and fire extinguishers on all floors. During the building of your commercial property or a remodel, an experienced contractor should install an automatic sprinkler system that is ready to activate at the first sign of fire or smoke. Fire extinguishers should be placed on all floors of the property and within the guidelines of your state. Training for employees is necessary – they must understand how to use the extinguishers in order for the tools to be effective.
Install smoke detectors and fire alarms. Just like a sprinkler system, fire alarms and detectors are an automatic tool that will go off at the first sign of smoke or flames. These alarms will alert those in the building to the fire immediately, giving them the opportunity to pull an alarm to send a signal to the fire department.
Check all equipment regularly. Alarms and extinguishers only work to alert the proper people if they are functioning properly. Run tests every six months to ensure they are working as intended. If they are not, hire a professional to repair them.
Educate employees and tenants on fire safety. Many people have never experienced a fire and have never gone through fire safety training. It is important to walk them through where they can find fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and escape plans. This will help minimize panic and confusion in the event of an emergency.
Even with the highest level of planning and prevention, a fire can still break out in your commercial property. Once everyone is safe and sound, it’s time to begin rebuilding and restoring your building by calling SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac.
Contact your insurance company and alert them of the situation at hand. They will be able to shed a little light on this dark situation by informing you of the next steps you need to take. With their guidance, you will be able to navigate the first initial steps of your fire damage claims. In addition, they will be able to inform you of the best practices you should take such as making a list and taking pictures of damaged items for documentation.
Utility and Lending Companies
Paying your bills and living expenses in addition to paying to having your home and belonging restored can be financially exhausting. Utility and lending companies realize this and they know the hardship a family can face in the event of disaster such as a house fire. Contact them, explain your situation, and see if they offer any hardship programs that would lower your payments or stop them completely until you get back on your feet.
Physician
Do you or a family member rely on daily medication to stay healthy? Depending on the extent of the fire damage or the origin of it, retrieving medication may not be possible. Contact your family physician and request to have your medication filled at your nearest pharmacy.
Child’s School
If you have a child in school you may want to contact the school and alert them of the situation at hand. If the fire damage deems your home unlivable you may need to stay with a family member and their home can be too far from the school. Teachers and principles are understanding of the difficulties a child and family faces in the event of a disaster and may allow them to do class work at home.
Replace Important Documents
In the event of a life threatening fire, you’re probably not going to think about grabbing the safe in your house that contain important documents. Most important documents can be replaced. Here are just a few of the documents that you need to get replaced right away.
Passport
Driver’s license
Birth, marriage, and death certificates
Damaged money (you can exchange it for undamaged cash with the treasury department)
Social security card
Bank documents
School records
Tax records
Vehicle registration
Start Fire Damage Restoration Right Away
When your home has gone through a fire, time is of the essence to save, recover and restore your belongings from fire damage.
A severe storm can change everything in the blink of an eye. It doesn’t always have to be a tornado to cause destruction in your home or office, and poor restoration can leave you with an unhealthy home for your family. If you know what to expect and learn all you can before a storm hits, you’ll be more prepared to restore things to normal as quickly as possible.
Stay Safe
Before inspecting the damage to your home keep safety in mind:
Watch out for hazards such as broken glass and exposed nails.
Always assume that downed power lines are energized and dangerous. Stay at least 10 feet away and alert the police and utility company.
When inspecting your home at night, use a flashlight instead of a candle (or anything with an open flame). This will alleviate the risk of a fire or explosion from a damaged gas line.
If you do smell gas—or suspect a leak—shut off the main gas line, open the windows, and immediately go outside. Notify the gas company and the proper authorities of the situation and don’t return until they’ve deemed your home to be safe.
Review and Assess the Damage
Windows and doors are vulnerable to wind damage and flying debris. Inspect your windows for cracks, holes, broken panes and damaged frames. Watch out for shards of glass, and be sure to board up broken windows until they can be fixed.
Look for damage to siding, paint, bricks and other exterior surfaces of your home. Also check outdoor appliances, like air conditioning units. You’re looking for dings, dents, cracks, splitting, holes, breaks chipping and discoloration.
If there was extended power outages and you have a sump pump, you may have standing water in your basement.
Do not step in standing water without first making sure power is turned off to avoid risk of electrocution
Re-engage sump pump to discharge water from the area or call a plumber if the pump is damaged.
Avoid Additional Damage
You may need a board-up service to secure your property so don’t wait. SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac can be there day or night for emergency service.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
Your insurance provider will instruct you on the next steps to take in making a claim and provide you with a claim number and a list of local emergency service providers.
Choose the Right Restoration Company
It’s important to hire a professional and trustworthy restoration company to help you recover your home and restore your lives. Poor or incomplete restoration could leave you with an unhealthy home for your family. Any time there is water damage, mold can begin growing immediately as well. It’s critical to address this as soon as possible to avoid additional damage and health risk. At SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac we have seen it all when it comes to Storm Damage. Whatever your situation is, we will start the process of restoring your home or business.
While a burst pipe is an immediate call to action, a stain on the ceiling is a subtle lingering reminder that something is wrong in your house. Instead of avoiding it, here are some facts to get you up to go investigate!
Whether it’s the roof or an upstairs bathroom, whatever is above the ceiling is usually the source of the stain. Pipes might run along attic rafters before dropping right above your ceiling, so tracking the original source might take some detective legwork.
Ceiling Stains And More
Water spots on the ceiling don’t automatically mean the roof is leaking. Often the stain is not from a roof failure but from drips in the attic from condensation on pipes. Many water lines converge up there: upstairs hot water heaters, plumbing, A/C lines. Tiny cracks allow slow leaks up in the attic crawl space which lead to stains on the ceiling. Be vigilant about:
Musty odors
Discolored growths
Stains, streaks, shadows
Peeling ceiling or wall surfaces
Even if your ceiling does not look too bad now, it doesn’t take much water cause big problems. A red flag that your ceiling is at risk of failure are depressions around the fasteners; you will see tiny dimples forming on the ceiling because the drywall encompassing the nails or screws droops, leaving an inverted crater.
Potential Problems
The most obvious consequence of a leak up in the roof is a compromised structure due to damaged rafters, ceiling joists, wall framing or exterior trim. Chronic wet wood leads to deterioration and rot.
High utility bills could be another side effect of a leak; water intrusion destroys the insulation in the attic area. Cellulose or fiberglass insulation becomes saturated and the insulating properties are lost. If a roof leak repair is put off for a long time, your home will lose hot and cool air and your will pay higher utility bills.
If you paint or cover up the damage, you may create a bigger problem. If the water continues to seep or leak, you may need to tear out the portion of the freshly patched ceiling to address the real source. If mold spores are not killed, then mold will come back. Again, an experienced professional will be able to make a much less visible repair than an inexperienced homeowner.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac knows where to look to spot potential health hazards, such as black mold, and not only get rid of current problems, but help to prevent future issues. Although cosmetic work, such as re-painting and re-plastering will make your building look fresh and new, there could still be underlying smoke and mold problems that could cause or aggravate health issues for years to come.
We’ll work quickly
We can attack your clean-up job with a full crew immediately, while you’ll have to work the clean-up around your already busy schedule. Cleaning up the damage quickly will help to prevent the damage from spreading and mold and mildew from forming.
We’ll help with your insurance claim.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has years of experience dealing with insurance companies after a fire or flood. We can help you fill out and submit the necessary paperwork to get your money quickly. Plus, the services of fire and water damage restoration companies are covered under most homeowners’ insurance policies.
We’ll help you decide what’s salvageable.
We will be invaluable in helping you determine what items you should keep and what is damaged beyond redemption. In the aftermath of a fire or flood, it can be difficult for you to make such decisions without being emotional.
When a fire breaks out in your facility, all operations come to a halt. Not only does the fire cause structural and smoke damage to your building, but water damage from the sprinkler system or firefighters’ hoses can also occur.
It is recommended that restoration work be done during the first 24 to 48 hours after fire damage occurs. This allows for the quick, efficient stabilization of your facility and minimizes the downtime of your business.
Call SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac 24/7 emergency response team to restore your building. We have the capacity to handle disasters at any size of facility, regardless of the type of fire.
Our fire restoration services include:
Emergency Board-Up
Demolition
Soot Removal
Deodorization
We also remove and secure damaged contents during the cleaning and restoration process. Our certified training and cleaning methods help make cleanup more effective and cost-efficient.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac has been proudly serving central Illinois since 1975. We are locally owned and for over 40 years we have been a reliable local leader in the restoration and cleaning industry. Our highly trained staff understands the stress and worry that comes with fire, water and mold damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business.
Knowing what to do when you see a tornado, or when you hear a tornado warning, can help protect you and your family. During a tornado, people face hazards from extremely high winds and risk of being struck by flying and falling objects. After a tornado, the wreckage left behind poses additional injury risks. The National Weather Service (NWS), Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide excellent resources on staying safe during and after a tornado, below are some of the highlights.
Preparing for a Tornado
Stay informed. Check the forecast regularly to see if you're at risk from tornadoes.
Sign up for notifications. Learn how your community sends tornado warnings. Some communities have outdoor sirens and others send media alerts.
Create a plan. Have a family plan that includes an emergency meeting space, such as a basement or storm cellar with no windows.
Practice your plan. Practice your plan so that your family is prepared when a tornado strikes.
Stay Safe During a Tornado
Stay informed. Continue to listen to local news or a Weather Radio to stay updated.
If you are at home: Go to your basement, safe room, or room away from windows. Bring your pets with you.
If you are at work or school: Follow the tornado drill and go to your tornado shelter quickly and calmly. Stay away from windows.
If you are in a vehicle: Being in a vehicle during a tornado is not safe. Drive to the closest shelter if possible. If it is not possible, get down in your car and cover your head or seek shelter in a low lying area, such as a ditch or ravine.
If you are outside: Being outside during a tornado is not safe. Seek shelter immediately. If it is not possible, get down in a low lying area, such as a ditch or ravine and cover your head.
After a Tornado
Stay informed. Continue to listen to local news or a Weather Radio to stay updated.
Contact family and loved ones. Save your phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems may be down after a disaster. Use text messaging or social media to communicate with family and loved ones.
Assess the damage. Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines. Do not enter damaged buildings until you are told they are safe.
Check for injuries. Do not attempt to move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Get medical assistance immediately.
Be careful during clean-up. Wear thick-soled shoes, long pants, and work gloves.
Choosing the Right Water Damage Restoration Contractor
Ask for Certification
The first thing to ask your potential contractor is this question: “Are you certified in doing the water damage restoration of my home?” First of all, you do not want someone to do major changes around your home if they are legally not allowed to.
24/7 Availability
Water damage can happen anytime. It can ruin your home in as fast as you can finish reciting the alphabet. When a water damage restoration company does not offer 24/7 services, they cannot be considered an emergency service company. A great water damage restoration service company will be available when they are needed. This should be true regardless if it is in the middle of the night or when the sun is up.
When it comes to water damage, we all know that time is of the essence. This is due to the fact that if the issue is quickly dealt with, the easier it is for the property to get back to its original state. The professionals should also arrive on time to ensure that fixing the issue will be dealt with promptly. When it comes to water damage, an immediate reaction can result in quicker action. As soon as you see a sign of water damage in the area, it is important to select the right water damage restoration quickly. This can help save your life, your home, and the health of the people in the property.
Uses Modern Equipment
A good water damage restoration company will invest in the latest equipment that can help eliminate water damage. The edge of having modern equipment is that it can speed up the restoration process. When it comes to water damage, time is of the essence and great water damage restoration companies put value into this fact.
Performs Initial Inspection of the Property
Before providing a final quotation, the water damage restoration company would send a representative to inspect the property. This will allow them to assess the situation before giving the client a final quote. This would be an accurate assessment, but these are not the final numbers for the water damage restoration service. After the final inspection, the water damage restoration representative can safely say what is needed to enhance the restoration process.
Years of Experience in the Water Damage Restoration Business
Years of experience in the business will provide an edge that is not present over newer companies. When a company has experience, they are pretty much equipped to handle almost anything since they have undergone these experiences before. There is no school that can teach the things that you learn from experience.
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac meets and exceeds all criteria.We have been serving central Illinois for over 30 yrs and are a certified industry leader in water removal and cleanup. We can provide properties with the fast and efficient mitigation work that they need to dry up their damaged property quickly 24/7. Our highly trained staff will dry your property using state-of-the-art water removal equipment and advanced drying techniques, documenting the drying process to make sure your property is dry and the job is done right.
Excessive indoor moisture can be caused by a number of issues; water damage, plumbing leaks, leaky roofs, high indoor humidity, and condensation are potential concerns.
Condensation on and around windows, in particular, is normal and may seem harmless, but it is one of the biggest moisture culprits when it’s cold outside but warm inside—as is typically the case during winter.
Window condensation occurs when moisture in the warm air inside your home liquefies upon contact with glass or other surfaces that are drastically cooler due to freezing outdoor temperatures. High humidity contributes to this process because there is excess moisture in the air.
While minor condensation doesn’t usually lead to problems, it is important to dry window surfaces regularly to keep condensation from accumulating and being absorbed by the wood and drywall around the windows. Mold feeds on such organic materials and can develop in as little as 24 hours.
How to Get Rid of Mold
There is no reason to treat winter mold any differently from mold that appears at any other point in the year.
If you discover evidence of mold in your home call:
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County 309-827-7500
1. Shut off your water and, if necessary, electricity
Go to the home’s main water valve and shut it off immediately. (And don’t wait for a burst pipe to find out where the main water valve is located.) Electricity should also be cut off to the section of the home where the water damage has occurred, Thompson said. If you live in an apartment complex and don’t have control over the building’s water supply, he added, be sure to contact your building manager or landlord.
2. Call a plumber.
Not all plumbing companies have 24-hour service, so it’s a good idea to research and choose one in advance so you’re not scrambling after water floods your house. Plumbing costs vary depending on where the pipes are located and how bad the damage is, Thompson said. You may also need to contact a water damage professional, he said, particularly if carpeting, flooring, walls or ceilings are severely damaged.
3. Call SERVPRO of Bloomington for the clean up and restoration.
309-827-7500
Prevention tips:
In very cold weather, let water drip from your faucet. This can help prevent freezing.
If you suspect a frozen pipe, thaw it yourself using a hair dryer, heating pad, space heater or warm washcloth, or call a professional.
If your faucet is not running or toilet is not refilling, there is a good chance a pipe is frozen.
When the weather turns cold, portable space heaters become a popular way to supplement heat in the home.
If you plan to purchase a space heater this winter, choose one that has been tested and certified by an independent laboratory and that will automatically shut off if the heater tips over.
Carbon Monoxide
With the increased use of gas fueled appliances in the cold winter months there is an increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
To insure your home is safe from carbon monoxide, install CO detectors in your home, or, if you already have CO detectors in your home, replace any that are older than 10 years. In addition, you should not run or warm a car in your garage.
Other safety tips
Additional suggestions to prevent fires this winter.
Avoid overloading electrical outlets in your home.
Install photo electric smoke detectors in every bedroom and on every floor of your home.
Have your furnace checked and serviced to ensure it works properly.
Know two ways out of your home and establish a family or roommate meeting place in case of emergency, or read your residence hall's emergency plan.
Inspect and dispose of non-working electrical holiday decorations.
If you live on the second or third floor, consider purchasing an escape ladder.
There are few things so warm and comforting as inviting people to your home in central Illinois, for a meal you have prepared. What is meant to be relaxing can turn into an emergency if a fire breaks out in your kitchen, though. Fortunately, kitchen fires are easily avoided if you take a few key safety precautions. Here are three tips on how to avoid kitchen fires.
1. Give It Your Attention.
Do not leave cooking food unattended. If a burner is on, you should be in the kitchen. It only takes a moment for something to boil over and catch fire or for small fingers to find their way to the burner in your absence. It may seem like a hassle to turn the stove off just to retrieve something from another room, but it's well worth the trouble if it keeps your home from suffering fire damage from a kitchen fire. Protect your home and your loved ones from danger by paying attention when you're cooking.
2. Keep Your Stove Clean.
A dirty stove is a recipe for a disaster. Not only does built-up grease have the tendency to draw insects, it can also cause a grease fire. Cleaning all cooking surfaces regularly can help you avoid fire caused by oil residue.
3. Keep Flammable Objects Away From Heat Sources.
If something can catch fire, it should not be near the burner on the stove. Pay attention to the tips on food packaging that warn you to keep it away from heat. Wear form-fitting clothing while cooking, especially on your arms so that sleeves don't dangle into danger. Potholders, recipe cards and kitchen towels have their place in the kitchen. That place is just not on the stove.
We all know that prevention is the best medicine, but floods can happen at any moment from any number of causes. By completing regularly scheduled home maintenance and keeping an eye out for common warning signs, you can minimize the chances of a flood. However, nothing can give you a 100% guarantee of never having a flood. In that case, preparation is the best way to minimize water damage.
First, it’s a good idea to know your flood risk. Are you in a potential flood zone? Is your yard sloped away from your foundation? Knowledge is power so the more you know about how your home might flood, the more steps you can take to prevent it or minimize damage from it.
Using waterproof building materials is a great way to reduce damage from flooding and there are waterproof sealants and paints that can be applied to existing structures. In particular, there are many protective coatings for block or poured concrete walls which are common in basements.
Keep your valuables and irreplaceable items such as photo albums, yearbooks, and important documents on high shelves. Do the same with chemicals and paints. If they leak into flood waters, they could cause additional damage. Any items put away for storage should be in air and water-tight plastic containers. Never leave boxes or items on the floor; instead, invest in raised shelving units.
It may also be a good idea to raise appliances and electronics off the ground. Get wires and power strips out from behind your tv stand and organize them in a way that keeps them out of the flood danger zone. Put washing machines and dryers on cinder blocks or sections of lumber to reduce the chances that rising water levels will affect them.
If a flood does strike, turn off electricity, gas, and water lines and place buckets under active leaks. If the water is pooling slowly, soak up as much of it as possible to reduce the potential damage. Calling SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County at the first sign of a flood is the best way to reduce water damage. Our highly trained technicians will solve your immediate problems and ensure you don’t experience lasting effects or further damage.
Flooding can happen to anyone. Take steps now to protect your home and keepsakes from water damage in the event of a possible flood.
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County 309-827-7500
The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) reports nearly two-thirds of these fire-related deaths occurred in homes with no working smoke alarm or no smoke alarms present at all. Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when they are properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.
The NFPA recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house.
Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.
Once smoke alarms are in place, it is important to maintain and regularly test the alarms to ensure they are in the proper working order. Review the tips provided here regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance.
Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A preparedness plan allows your family, employees, or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation. For tips or information on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County 309-827-7500
Smoke Alarm Tips:
Install smoke alarms inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement.
Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
Test smoke detectors at least once a month using the test button
Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm “chirps,” warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away
Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old
Spring showers can often lead to flooding conditions in central Illinois. These tips will help reduce the impact spring floods that my happen on your property.
Watch for Pooling Water
Look for places around your property where water pools, and channel it away from buildings. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and they are directing water as intended.
Maintain Sump Pump
If you have a sump pump, check to be sure it is operational before water starts rising. Consider a back-up generator to ensure your pump works when you need it most. Contact your insurance agent to add coverage in case your sump pump fails.
Raise Storage Goods
Use shelving and/or pallets to keep storage items off the floor to reduce the impact of small floods. In many situations, raising boxes just a few inches will be enough to keep storage goods above the water line.
Cut Power if Necessary
As rising water approaches the level of electrical outlets, you risk having a live current flow through all the water. Cut the power if you can safely do so without standing in water. Otherwise, evacuate and contact an electrician to cut the power before you go back in for recovery.
Keep Storm Drains Clear
If you see water pooling around a storm drain, the drain may be clogged with debris. Clearing the debris will help keep the water flowing away from your neighborhood.
Be Aware on the Road
Be careful when driving during spring storms, especially when you hear flash flood warnings. Never drive into fully submerged roadway. The water surface will be at the same level as the pavement you can see. This view can deceive you into thinking the water is shallow because you cannot see how the road dips under the surface.
Act Fast
When a flood happens, you need to act fast to dry out any wet items, particularly structural materials like walls and flooring.
At SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County we Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today - 309-827-7500
There are many different ways a fire can break out, one of the most dangerous being a grease fire. If you lack experience putting out a grease fire, know that you do not treat it the same as you would a "standard" fire. There are certain things that you must do and things you absolutely must NOT do. Please consider the following:
Do
Turn off the stove or heat source
Smother the fire with the pot lid. Without oxygen, the fire cannot survive.
Use baking soda to douse the flames. Flour and other items will not work
Use a Class B dry chemical fire extinguisher
call 911
Don't
Try to put out the flames using water. It will splash the grease, causing the fire to spread
Move the item. This could also cause splashing, spreading and could potentially burn you
Try to use anything other than baking soda. It will not help
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 309-827-7500
Due to its uncomfortable nature, Trauma scene cleanup is a topic that is rarely considered until something happens.
Once the need for trauma scene cleaning is required it is generally accompanied by a high level of emotional distress, which is compounded by the fact that most people have no idea what options they have.
That's where the Trauma Scene and Bio-recovery experts at SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County come in. SERVPRO production managers have been independently trained and certified through the American Bio Recovery Association. This training allows them to provide the highest level of technical expertise and professional service.
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County sincerely hopes that no-one ever has to deal with a trauma scene situation. But, we take pride in knowing that, if the unthinkable happens, we are always here to help.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 309-827-7500
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County has been providing HVAC system cleaning services to the homes and business of Central Illinois for over 20 years.
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County certified technicians, follow industry standard processes and use the latest in HVAC system cleaning and inspection equipment. We are confident that, when given the opportunity, SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County will perform to the highest standards.
Whether your're in a brand new home or it's been at least 5 years since the system was cleaned, duct cleaning can greatly improve indoor air quality and increase the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Give SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County a call today to schedule your no cost estimate and start enjoying the benefits of clean ducts!
At SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County we Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today - 309-827-7500
The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW.
As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile Advantages:
A no cost assessment of your facility. – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. – This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. – You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. – This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. – Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”
For more ERP info call SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County we Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today - 309-827-7500
Faster to your Central Illinois Water Damage Event
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Central Illinois
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 309-827-7500
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
Drywall begins to swell and break down.
Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
Furniture begins to swell and crack.
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
Metal begins to rust and corrode.
Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
Paint begins to blister.
Wood flooring swells and warps.
Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
About SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
When your Central Illinois home or suffers fire damage, it can be especially devastating.
Fire Safety Tips That Could Help Save Your Life
Fire Prevention Tip #1 One of the simplest and most effective fire safety precautions you can do to help keep your family safe is to install smoke detectors and smoke alarms throughout your home. It is important to check smoke alarms regularly, and change their batteries at least once a year. Investigation into home fires often reveals that smoke alarms could have saved lives but didn’t because the alarms were either disconnected or the batteries were dead or removed.
Fire Prevention Tip #2 At a minimum, you should have one smoke alarm for each level in your home. A smoke alarm should be placed within 10 feet of sleeping areas, since most fire deaths occur at night while people are sleeping. In order to be most effective, the alarm should be mounted on the ceiling or towards the top of a wall about a foot below the ceiling. It should never be placed where a wall and ceiling meet or in the corner of a room. Alarms should also not be placed near heating ducts or cold air returns. The air flow around these areas could prevent alarms from detecting smoke. You can also interconnect the smoke alarms throughout the house so when one goes off, all of the smoke detectors will sound.
Fire Prevention Tip #3 In the event of a fire, your primary thoughts should be of the safety of you and your family. If there is any doubt about staying at home or leaving, leave immediately. It is important to have an evacuation plan in place and to practice it. This will ensure that you and your family know and understand how to get out of the house. Here’s a checklist of fire safety considerations:
Have an escape plan for each room and make the bedrooms top priority. Rehearse the plan regularly as a rehearsed escape plan will help eliminate panic in an emergency situation. Children who have not rehearsed a fire drill at home may hide under a bed or in a closet, greatly reducing their chance for survival.
Once the alarm sounds, time is of the essence. Don’t stop to gather valuables or toys — just get out. .
Know how to use 911 and teach your children as well. Post your house address near the phone.
Designate a window as a secondary exit. Make sure it is completely unobstructed and is easily opened by children and elderly. For second and third story windows, keep a Fire Escape Ladder stored close by. Practice using them out of a first floor window so everyone is familiar with them.
Feel closed doors for warmth before opening them and look for smoke seeping in around the door’s edges and from underneath. Open any closed door slowly and be prepared to shut it immediately if heat or smoke rush in.
Have a designated outside meeting place, and make everyone aware of where it is. Make sure the meeting place is located well away from the house and make it a rule to not re-enter the house.
As soon as two people have reached the meeting place, have one person leave to call 911. The second person should stay to make sure the other family members all make it out.
If someone is missing don’t go back inside. Instead, notify the fire department as soon as they arrive.
Fire Prevention Tip #4 Fires caused by candles, cooking, falling asleep while smoking, and other such accidents can occur at any time. It is always a good idea to consider using smokeless electric or battery-operated candles, like rechargeable Tea Light candles. These candles are much safer than traditional candles. With flameless candles, you don’t have to worry about a child or pet knocking them over and starting a fire.
At SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County we Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today - 309-827-7500
Fire Prevention Tip #5 A little fire safety maintenance can go a long way towards reducing your risk for a fire at home. Here are some fire prevention tips you can do to help lower your risk of a fire breaking out:
Practice home fire drills regularly and make them realistic. Have different escape routes blocked and practice using alternate exits.
Lint build-up in your dryer’s vent can cause a fire. Get rid of it before it becomes a problem using a Dryer Maintenance Kit that includes a vent brush, lint trap brush, and vacuum attachment.
Make it a habit to unplug all countertop appliances when they aren’t being used.
Install a carbon monoxide detector. They are especially useful in the newer energy-efficient homes with tight weather seals.
Store cigarette lighters and matches where children can’t get them.
Don’t use an outdoor grill or charcoal grill indoors or on a porch or balcony.
Test your smoke alarm regularly to make sure it’s in working condition.
Change battery-operated smoke detector batteries once each year.
Fire Prevention Tip #6 Help emergency vehicles find your home faster with a Solar LED address light that easily stakes into the ground and illuminates your house numbers.
If a fire does breakout, don’t panic. For example, something cooking on the stove catches fire and you’re not sure what to do. If you throw water on the pan, grease could splatter and the fire might spread. Instead, grab a Fire Blanket and use it to smother the flames quickly. Made of nonflammable fiberglass, the Fire Blanket cuts off the oxygen supply to the fire, putting it out. You can also grab a convenient Fire Extinguisher.
Smoke inhalation, not burns, is by far the largest killer in fires, so the more time you have to escape, the better. This heat-resistant, transparent copolymer Smoke Escape™ Hood features a patented 3-layer ionized smoke filter that gives you up to 15 precious “escape” minutes.
Following these fire prevention tips and fire safety ideas will not only lessen your risk for damage, injury, and loss, but may also save your life, and the lives of your family. The minimal amount of time it takes to read and practice these fire prevention tips could end up being one of the best investments you ever make!
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – 309-827-7500
Restoring Your Central Illinois Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event
Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges
Flooding and water damage events at Central Illinois commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Does Your Central Illinois Home Have A Mold Problem?
In Central Illinois, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.
Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:
Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County Today 309-827-7500
Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm.
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.
Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Home.
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – 309-827-7500
When Storms or Floods hit Central Illinois, SERVPRO is ready!
Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage.
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Central Illinois, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 309-827-7500
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today - 309-827-7500
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:
Your name and contact information
Your insurance information (if applicable)
The street address of the water-damaged home or business
When did the flooding or water damage occur?
What caused the water damage (if known)?
Is there electricity available (on-site)?
About SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County
SERVPRO of Bloomington / Gibson City / S. McLean County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
Stay out of affected areas.
Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
Contact SERVPRO of [[Franchise Name]] for mold remediation services.
What Not to Do:
Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of Bloomington/Gibson City/S. McLean County specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today 309-827-7500
When the weather gets warmer, it’s always fun to gather with friends and family for an outdoor cookout. After all, nothing spells spring or summer like the smell of burgers, steaks, hot dogs and chopped veggies fresh off the grill – until something starts burning, that is.
While gas and charcoal grills are an easy way to cook up large amounts of delicious food, they can also pose a fire danger to your property and family. By following a few simple BBQ safety tips, you can prevent injury while keeping your home and surrounding property safe. Learn the most important grill safety tips from the experts at SERVPRO to keep your property out of harm’s way the next time you smoke, sizzle or sauté outside.
Practice Good Grilling Habits
Whatever kind of grill you use, there are a few simple things you can do to reduce your risk of fire or injury. Here are some basic grilling safety tips to follow:
Set your grill up a safe distance away from structures and overhangs, including your main building, shed, garage, trees and other potentially flammable objects.
Never use your grill inside, in a tent or under an outdoor awning or carport. Doing so can pose a serious fire hazard and potentially cause carbon monoxide poisoning if you’re using a gas grill.
Light your gas or charcoal grill using special long-length lighters or long matches to avoid getting burned. Keep all ignition sources out of the reach of children.
Never leave an actively burning grill unattended, and let your grill fully cool before you cover or store it.
Clean your grill thoroughly and often to reduce flammable buildup inside.
Be Aware of Proper Charcoal Grill Safety
Many people swear by the taste of food cooked on a classic charcoal grill. This popular way of cooking is fun, but it also poses unique fire risks of its own. Keep these important BBQ safety tips in mind if you own or use a charcoal grill:
Only add enough charcoal to cover the bottom of the grill. Don’t pile too much inside since it could cause ashes and sparks to become airborne, possibly catching nearby objects or even your home on fire.
Store extra charcoal in a secure place away from other potential fire hazards, and preferably in an airtight metal container.
Only use starter fluid specifically designed for charcoal. Apply it to cold coals only, and don’t add extra fluid once the grill is lit. Otherwise, the flames could get too high, resulting in possible burns or an uncontained fire.
Empty your used ashes only when they have fully cooled. Never store or dispose of them in a garbage can or leave them on a deck. Even when cooled, ashes can still cause a fire. It’s best to dump them on garden soil or contain them in a metal receptacle for proper disposal.
Use your Gas Grill Wisely
Gas grills are convenient and easy to use, and require less refueling than charcoal grills. But gas grills are also susceptible to fire risks, so it’s important to be aware of how to properly operate your gas grill. Remember these safety tips if you own a gas grill:
Open the lid before lighting the grill. This allows oxygen to escape and reduces the risk of fire or even explosion.
Check your grill’s gas line and tank fittings regularly for leaks. You can do this by brushing soapy water around these areas. If you see bubbles emerge, there could be a leak somewhere. Replace any damaged/leaking parts and make any other needed repairs before using the grill.
If you have spare gas cylinders, never store them under a stairway or the eaves of your home. Place them upright and outside, away from any structures to minimize fire risks.
Turn off your grill using the controls first, then close off the gas line at the tank. This helps to ensure any excess gas can escape safely.
If you happen to experience a fire during BBQ season, the professionals at SERVPRO are always available to help. We hope you never need to make that call but if you do, we’re available 24/7/365 to assist you. Visit our Fire Damage Repair and Restoration page.
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