Recent Posts
Understanding Mold Removal: How Long Does It Typically Take?
5/22/2023 (Permalink)
Understanding mold removal is important to ensure your property is protected from mold damage.
Mold is a common problem in many homes, and it's important to address it promptly to prevent further damage to your home. If you have mold in your home, you may be wondering how long it will take to remove it. In this blog, we will explore the factors that can impact the length of time it takes to remove mold from your home.
Factors Affecting Mold Removal Time
The length of time it takes to remove mold from your home can vary depending on several factors.
The size and extent of the mold infestation will impact how long it takes to remove the mold. If the mold is limited to a small area, it may only take a few days to remove. However, if the mold has spread to multiple areas of your home or if there is a large amount of mold present, it may take longer to remove.
Type of Mold
Different types of mold require different removal methods, and some types of mold are more difficult to remove than others. For example, black mold can be particularly difficult to remove and may require more extensive remediation measures.
Remediation Methods
The methods used to remove the mold will impact how long it takes to complete the remediation process. For example, if the mold is removed using traditional methods such as scrubbing and cleaning, it may take longer than if more advanced methods such as dry ice blasting or ozone treatment are used.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors such as temperature and humidity can impact the length of time it takes to remove mold. Higher temperatures and humidity levels can promote the growth of mold, which can make the removal process take longer.
Accessibility
The accessibility of the mold can impact how long it takes to remove it. If the mold is in hard-to-reach areas, it may take longer to remove.
How Long Does Mold Removal Typically Take?
The length of time it takes to remove mold from your home will vary depending on the factors outlined above. In general, mold removal can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. However, it's important to note that the length of time it takes to remove the mold is less important than ensuring that the mold is completely removed.
Mold removal professionals typically follow a specific process to remove mold from your home assessing the extent of the mold infestation.
Containing the mold to prevent it from spreading
Removing the mold using appropriate methods
Cleaning and disinfecting the affected areas
Conducting post-remediation testing to ensure that all mold has been removed
Mold removal is an important process that should be taken seriously to prevent further damage to your home. The length of time it takes to remove mold from your home will vary depending on several factors, including the size and scope of the infestation, the type of mold, the remediation methods used, environmental factors, and accessibility. It's important to work with a qualified mold removal professional to ensure that the mold is completely removed and that your home is safe for you and your family.
Smoke-Free Home: Tips for Avoiding Cigarette Fires and Keeping Your Family Safe
4/13/2023 (Permalink)
Avoid smoking indoors to avoid a house fire
Cigarette fires are a serious risk for any home with smokers, and can cause devastating damage and loss of life. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), smoking materials, including cigarettes, are the leading cause of home fire deaths in the United States, and the second leading cause of home fires overall. Here are some tips for avoiding cigarette fires in your home.
The simplest way to avoid cigarette fires in your home is to avoid smoking indoors altogether. Designate a specific area outside, away from any flammable materials or structures, where you can smoke safely. Not only will this reduce the risk of fire, but it will also improve the indoor air quality in your home.
Use ashtrays
If you must smoke indoors, use a sturdy, deep ashtray that is made of a non-combustible material, such as ceramic or metal. Avoid using plastic or glass ashtrays, as they can melt or break if they come into contact with a hot cigarette. Make sure the ashtray is placed on a flat, stable surface, and never leave a lit cigarette unattended.
Extinguish cigarettes properly
Always make sure your cigarette is completely extinguished before disposing of it. This means using water or sand to fully extinguish the cigarette, not just tapping it into an ashtray. If you are smoking outdoors, avoid throwing cigarettes on the ground, as they can easily start a grass or brush fire.
Keep cigarettes away from flammable materials
Keep cigarettes, lighters, and matches away from anything that can easily catch fire, such as bedding, furniture, or curtains. Make sure there are no loose papers or other flammable materials near your smoking area.
Install smoke detectors
Make sure your home is equipped with working smoke detectors on every level, including the basement and attic. Test them regularly, and replace the batteries at least once a year. Smoke detectors can provide early warning of a fire, giving you and your family more time to escape.
Be alert
Never smoke if you are feeling drowsy, intoxicated, or otherwise impaired. If you fall asleep while smoking, you could easily start a fire without even realizing it. Keep a close eye on lit cigarettes, and make sure they are fully extinguished before you go to bed.
By following these simple tips, you can reduce the risk of cigarette fires in your home and keep your family and property safe. Remember, smoking is a serious health risk, and the best way to protect yourself and those around you is to quit smoking altogether. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor or a qualified smoking cessation counselor.
4 Signs Your Toilet Needs to Be Replaced
3/9/2023 (Permalink)
Replace a toilet leaking to prevent future water damage.
When it comes to the bathroom, we have a lot of feelings. We want our toilet to be clean and functional. In order for that to happen, you need a toilet that's in good working order. If your toilet is old, cracked or broken, or not flushing properly—it's time for a replacement! The first step in replacing your toilet is knowing what signs indicate it's time for a new one.
Why it's important to replace the toilet
The toilet is a necessary fixture in any home, but if it's not properly maintained or replaced when necessary, it can cause serious damage and cost you money. Replacing your toilet is an investment that will pay off in the long run.
Here are some reasons why:
- Not replacing your toilet can lead to leaks and cracks in the floor around it. This can result in expensive repairs or even damage to surrounding walls and floors if left untreated for too long.
- The condition of your existing plumbing system affects how much water is used each day--and this means that if there are leaks from old pipes or fixtures around them, then this will increase how much water you use each day, leading to a higher water bill.
The toilet is old
Older toilets can be a source of frustration, especially if they're causing problems. If your toilet is more than 15 years old and has never been repaired or replaced, there's a good chance that it needs to be replaced.
Old toilets can be difficult to fix due to their age and design--it's not uncommon for older models not to have any parts available anymore. A malfunctioning toilet may also require expensive repairs like replacing major parts like the tank or bowl. Even if you're able to find replacement parts for your out-of-date model, repairing an old toilet could wind up costing more than simply buying a new one would have cost in the first place!
In addition to being expensive and difficult, older models aren't energy efficient either; many older designs use more water per flush than newer ones do today--and since more households are concerned about conserving resources these days, this could impact them financially by increasing their monthly bills.
The toilet is cracked or broken
If your toilet is cracked or broken, it's time to replace it. A cracked or broken bowl could lead to leaking and flooding. If you have a cracked tank, bacteria can get into the cracks and cause foul odors that are difficult to remove from your bathroom. The same goes for broken flanges (the metal rings that hold your toilet onto its base), seats, and lids--if one of these parts breaks off completely, you'll need new ones before using your bathroom again!
The toilet is wobbling
If you notice your toilet rocking or wobbling, it could be a sign that some bolts are loose. Loose toilet bolts can cause all kinds of problems. If there's not enough support under the base of your toilet, then it may rock or wobble when someone sits on it. You should also check to see if there are any cracks in the porcelain around where the bowl meets with the floor or tank.
A wobbling toilet could also indicate a bigger problem, such as damage to the floor beneath the toilet. Damage underneath the toilet can occur if a leak is present, causing the flooring to rot or warp.
The toilet isn't flushing properly
If you notice that the toilet isn't flushing properly, it's time to replace it. This can be caused by a number of things:
- The bowl is clogged
- The tank is leaking water
- The flapper is worn-out or damaged
- The rim jets are blocked
Replacing your toilet will make your bathroom look better, function better, and prevent water damage too!
If your toilet is older than ten years, it's time to replace it. If you have an old or cracked toilet with signs of water damage, consider replacing it immediately! A new toilet will not only look better but also function much better than an old one. If you notice any wobbling or if your family members complain about how often they have to flush because the bowl does not flush properly anymore--then these are signs that show there may be problems with your current system's ability to handle waste efficiently.
Replacing your toilet is one of the easiest ways to improve your bathroom. It will look better, function better and save you money in the long run by preventing water damage too!
Testing your Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarms
2/17/2023 (Permalink)
Ensure your business is safe, install and test smoke detectors and fire alarms regularly.
Don't let the thought of smoke detectors and fire alarms keep you up at night. Testing your smoke alarms is just one of many safety practices that can help you sleep well. In fact, smoke alarm malfunctions are one of the most common reasons homes go up in flames.
Smoke Alarms should be placed on every level of the home
Smoke alarms should be placed on every level of the home, including the basement. They should also be located in each bedroom, or hallway.
If you have a fireplace or wood stove, check to see if there is an automatic shutoff switch connected to your smoke alarm. If so, this will stop air from circulating through your house when there is a fire in your fireplace or wood-burning stove.
Test your Smoke Alarms Regularly
Test your smoke alarms and fire alarms regularly. It's a good idea to test them monthly. When you're testing your smoke alarm, do it when your family or employees are there so you can discuss any questions someone might have for evacuation planning.
Test them again right before leaving town for an extended period of time like Thanksgiving or Christmas break so that if something happens while you're gone (like burglars breaking in), there'll be no delay in getting help by calling 911.
Replace Alarms
If there is any doubt your smoke detectors or fire alarms are going to malfunction, it would be smart to look into replacement options. If you’re replacing your smoke detectors and fire alarms, it’s important to remember that new models are equipped with 10-year batteries. This will help ensure that your devices are working properly for the next decade. It’s also essential for the safety of your family and home.
After installing a new device, you should test it by pressing its test button or pulling on its test strip (if there is one). If there is no indication that the smoke detector or fire alarm has been activated after five minutes, contact a professional to inspect them for possible issues.
Ensuring your family or business is safe, it is important to test your smoke detectors and fire alarms regularly to keep your them safe. If you are in need of more information, contact a professional fire alarm specialist.
Take These Actions if You Suspect a Gas Leak
12/7/2022 (Permalink)
A gas leak can be a dangerous situation that can have serious repercussions for everyone involved.
Take These Actions if You Suspect a Gas Leak
A gas leak can be a frightening situation and is one that needs to be addressed immediately. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to identify and address the problem, as well as ensure your own safety and that of others around you. Here’s what you need to know about gas leaks:
Knowing the Signs
In the event that you suspect a gas leak, it is important to know what to do next. A gas leak can happen for many reasons, including:
- A hole in the pipe or tank
- Damage from an earthquake
- An old pipe that has not been properly maintained or replaced over time.
While it might be difficult to determine if there is actually a gas leak based on your senses alone, especially if you don't have experience with smelling natural gas, there are certain signs that can help alert you that one may be present. These include:
- A strong odor not normally associated with your Glendale, AZ home
- Fumes escaping under doors or windows
- A whistling noise coming from vents on appliances
If you've had any recent repairs done on your plumbing system, it might be worth looking into whether those repairs were done correctly; if they weren't properly completed, this could have caused your pipes to become damaged over time and led to them leaking natural gas into your home—a very serious concern!
Monitoring for Airborne Poison and Other Dangerous Gas Leaks
If you suspect a gas leak, call 911 immediately. Next, find the building's utility shutoff valve and turn it off. This will stop the flow of gas from your building to the main pipe and ensure that no more carbon monoxide enters your home or business until repairs can be made.
If another person is exposed to the leak, bring them inside as quickly as possible and call 911 immediately after doing so. If necessary, give them fresh air until help arrives. Do not leave them alone at any point during this process: they may require medical attention afterwards!
The purpose of this article is to help you learn the signs of a gas leak and understand the dangers associated with one gas leaks. A gas leak can be a dangerous situation that can have serious repercussions for everyone involved. Hopefully, with these tips and information on how you should react in an emergency situation, you will feel more confident knowing what actions to take next time something like this happens.
How Do You EstimateThe Cost Of Cleanup And Restoration After A Fire?
10/26/2022 (Permalink)
If your business has been affected by a fire, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local SERVPRO.
How Do You Calculate The Cost Of Fire Cleanup And Restoration?
Estimating the damage done by a fire in your home or business in Phoenix, AZ, is never easy. It's not just about getting rid of the smoke, soot, and water—it's about restoring your property to its pre-fire condition. So, how do you estimate the cost of fire damage?
What is a fire damage estimate?
A fire damage estimate is a written document that estimates the cost of repairing a home after a fire. When you receive your Fire Claim from your insurance company, they will send an adjuster to inspect the property. This person will take photographs and measurements so that he or she can prepare an accurate estimate for you. The adjuster may ask you questions about your belongings so that all your possessions are accounted for in their report (for example: “How many pairs of jeans do you have?”).
How does it work?
Once the adjuster has finished collecting all necessary evidence and information about what happened at your residence, he or she will begin calculating how much each item would cost if he or she had to replace it with new items. This process is called replacement value. If something was irreplaceable—like family heirlooms—and cannot be replaced by purchasing another exact replica, then its value will be determined based on what someone might pay for it at auction or other means.
The Steps of Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration
Assessing the Fire and Smoke Damage
Fire damage is a complex and multi-faceted process. The first step to assessing the fire and smoke damage is to determine what’s salvageable, which can be done by looking at each item individually. Next, you should tarp and board up your property so that outside factors don’t damage your property. After that, the damage needs to be cleaned up before the restoration can begin.
Tarping and Boarding Up Your Property
If you have a residential property, it’s important to begin tarping and boarding up windows, doors, and other openings on your house. This can help prevent damage from rainwater and wind erosion. The most effective way to board up your windows is going to be with plywood.
Usually, a fire cleanup and restoration specialist will offer tarping and board-up services!
Fire Cleanup Services
After the fire, your property will be a mess. The fire department will have left it in shambles, soaked and charred. You need to hire a company that specializes in cleaning up after fires to restore your home back to its pre-fire condition as soon as possible.
Fire restoration specialists will remove all the debris and contaminants from your property, including ash and soot stains that may not be visible at first glance. They'll also clean and disinfect the premises so there's no chance of bacteria or mold spreading around through air or dust particles left behind after cleanup efforts are complete.
Once everything has been removed from inside your house (including furniture), they can begin repairing affected areas such your floors, walls, and ceilings. Some companies, like SERVPRO of Northwest Phoenix, also offer content restoration services as well.
The Fire Restoration Phase
The final step in the process is known as the fire restoration phase. This is when the property is cleaned and restored to its pre-fire condition. Depending on how much damage was caused by a fire, and how long it takes for your insurance company to process your claim, this can take several weeks. In some cases, you may need to stay at another home or hotel until repairs are completed.
If your home or business has been affected by a fire, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We can help you through every step of the process. Our team has years of experience in assessing and repairing damaged properties, and we always treat our customers with respect, compassion, and honesty.
Required PPE for Mold Remediation
8/28/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO professional checking for moisture
Required PPE for Mold Remediation
When you discover mold damage at your home in Phoenix, AZ, it’s not something to take lightly. Mold is sneaky and can quickly spread throughout your home before you realize it’s there. This is why it’s critical that the proper personal protective equipment, such as face masks and coveralls, is worn during the remediation. It not only protects the cleanup crew, but it also helps to avoid cross-contamination into unaffected areas.
1. Hair Covers
During mold remediation job, everyone in the affected area should cover their hair with disposable hair covers. Mold spores will be floating through the air throughout the process, getting trapped in workers’ hair. This is a significant risk for cross-contamination of mold to other areas of the home.
2. Eye Protection
Safety glasses or goggles must be worn to protect the eyes during mold cleanup. Not only will mold spores be traveling through the air, but also dust and debris. For a smaller cleaning job, workers might wear safety glasses. However, for a larger job, they’ll wear safety goggles that provide additional protection.
3. Masks
Face masks are the most essential article of PPE for restoration professionals. Different levels of protection are available. N-95 is the minimum level appropriate for mold, filtering at least 95% of airborne particles. N-99 and N-100 respirator masks will filter at least 99% and 99.97% of airborne particles, respectively.
4. Coveralls
Disposable coveralls are typically worn over clothes to avoid cross-contamination. They can be removed and disposed of before going into the unaffected areas of the house.
5. Gloves
Disposable gloves (e.g., latex gloves) are used for cleaning mold damage. Just as with the other disposable PPE, they need to be removed and thrown away before leaving the scene. They’ll be replaced by new gloves upon return.
6. Shoe Covers
Disposable shoe covers will be worn during the remediation process to keep from tracking mold and other debris from the affected area to unaffected areas.
Mold remediation can be complicated and requires specialized equipment. Face masks and other PPE are a vital part of this process.
How Leaky Toilets Can Cause Bigger Problems
8/23/2022 (Permalink)
Pay close attention to determine from where the water is leaking
A leaking toilet is a common household problem, so you might think it is an easy fix. In some cases, you are right, but in other situations, you might need some help. Here are some common reasons toilets leak and how they can lead to bigger issues that require a professional.
Reasons Toilets Leak
The way to inspect a leaky commode is to flush it. Pay close attention to determine from where the water is leaking. Where the water comes from and pools can lead you to diagnose some of these common problems:
- Cracks in the tank
- Loose tank bolts
- Loose or damaged supply lines
- A dry wax ring
- A broken flange
These are just a few issues that can lead to water on your bathroom floor.
Deciding If You Can Fix It Yourself
Starting from the top of your toilet and working your way down is an easy, systematic way to check for leaks. Some fixes only require a wrench and a few new parts. Water lines, wax rings and other toilet components are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace. However, if you get to the bottom and only just discovered where the water is coming from, there could be more serious issues than just a leaking toilet.
Dealing With Water Damage
Until you have the toilet unbolted from the floor and see what is going on underneath it, you won’t be sure just how bad the situation is. If a commode has been leaking for a long time, there could be severe water damage to your floor and the subfloor underneath. Evidence of soft floors and rot is serious, and it is best to call water damage professionals in cases where the structure of your home might be compromised by a bathroom leak.
If you find yourself with a leaking toilet, assess the severity of the situation, and decide if you need to call a local water damage company in Phoenix, AZ to check it out.
How To Lower Business Interruption Insurance Loss
8/11/2022 (Permalink)
Business interruption insurance can help your business and your employees during a shutdown due to an emergency or disaster
Know How To Lower Your Business Interruption Insurance Loss
In the event your business in Phoenix, AZ, suffers water damage from flooding due to a broken pipe or other unexpected disaster, your business may not be functional until things are repaired and restored. Business owners often plan ahead with insurance to physically repair their business in case of disaster, but don't plan for how to financially stay afloat while the business is closed down. Business interruption insurance can help with operating expenses while you are focused on recovery.
What Is Covered
Business interruption insurance can help your business and your employees during a shutdown due to an emergency or disaster. It provides for the following financial necessities during a temporary closure:
- Lost net income based on your financial records
- Mortgage, rent, and lease payments
- Loan payments
- Taxes
- Employee payroll
What Is Not Covered
Business insurance does not cover everything. The primary purpose is to keep the business financially above water during a temporary closure. Items and damages covered by other types of insurance policies will not be covered on a business interruption claim. In light of recent events, it is important to note that business interruption insurance does not apply to shutdowns due to pandemics, viruses, or communicable diseases. The following damages are not covered:
- Broken items resulting from a covered event or loss
- Damages caused by flooding or earthquakes, which are covered by a separate policy
- Undocumented income not listed in your business' financial records
- Utilities
Lower Your Loss
While business interruption insurance doesn't cover the actual physical damages caused by flooding, those damages are often covered by other insurance. Large water damage often requires extensive cleanup and repairs. The best way to lower your business interruption insurance loss is to get your business back up and running as soon as safely possible. A quick recovery aided by a restoration specialist will lower the claim on your business interruption insurance. They can often work with you and your insurance company to get started on recovery without much delay.
How to Estimate Fire Damage to a Business
7/23/2022 (Permalink)
Fire damage to a restaurant in Phoenix, AZ.
How to Estimate Fire Damage to a Business
Fires are one of the most common disasters to strike businesses. Fortunately, most fires in Phoenix, AZ, are small and easily dealt with. However, every year in the U.S., there are over 100,000 fires, with fire damage losses to commercial properties exceeding $2.4 billion annually.
Generally, the damage estimate is done by either the insurance adjuster or a qualified Preferred Vendor. In most cases, it’s in your interest to choose a restoration expert to make a solid appraisal based on the damage and circumstances.
The Factors in the Assessment
By far the largest factor in your estimate is the amount of damage. Three areas of damage are examined:
If the commercial fire was tiny, put out immediately and the soot is contained in a small area, you may be able to clean it yourself. If you need a restoration specialist for very small jobs, the cost may not exceed your insurance deductible.
A Good Time To Have Fire Insurance
If the fire damage is widespread, you’ll need to make an insurance claim. If you don’t have insurance, your restoration expert may find you low-cost options to reduce the sting. In widespread fires like wildfires, there may be disaster grants available, too.
Insurance Adjusters and Restoration Specialists
Insurance companies and restoration experts work closely together to ensure high-quality standards, but each may have different goals. When you choose an experienced commercial fire damage restoration company to do the assessment, their goal will be to get you the highest-quality restoration.
In many cases, items can be restored instead of replaced. This can help keep a place looking more authentic, along with saving items that you’d prefer to keep. The fire mitigation company will have a much better idea about what their custom soot and smoke cleanup solvents will be able to save and what must be replaced.
The estimate process should be transparent, and you should ask any questions that arise as it’s explained to you. With reputable companies, you’ll get a rock-solid estimation and can quickly start to rebuild your business.
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