Storm

1/6/2023 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, it does happen, hopefully not often. With the changes in our current weather patterns, it seems heavier rains, stronger winds, and overall severe weather seems to be getting more, well….. severe. So what do you do when severe weather strikes your home? Most severe weather damage is a result of wind, which in turn exposes your home to the subsequent rain which enters the interior of the residence. Here are some recommended steps to take immediately if this occurs:

• CALL SERVPRO of LBL North! While the damage may be minimal “looking” early on, you have no idea where the watered entered, nor where it had traveled before it became noticeable to you. It is best to call the professionals who are available 24 hours a day.
• Gather insurance documents and prepare to have those for when SERVPRO of LBL North arrives. It is not mandatory that you have this information in order to call us, however, it helps us to understand how we can assist as we move through the initial inspection process of your home or business.
• Listen closely to the Crew Chief as he/she explains the process, and this is the time to ask any questions as it pertains to the process. Our Crew Chiefs are happy to explain the drying science, as well as how each piece of equipment functions to help restore your home to its normal level of dryness.
• BE PATIENT! Our job as the premier restoration company in the nation is to ensure your home is dry following storm damage. We know the fans and dehumidifiers may be a touch loud, and you may be tempted to turn them off to catch your favorite television series. Do not alter the equipment left behind by a company. If there is an issue with the equipment, please consult with your Crew Chief.
• Be prepared to contact a construction company to replace the materials removed from the home that were affected by the storm. While SERVPRO of LBL North does have a construction team that can restore your home like new, the mitigation process goes much faster than the replacement process. While a standard water damage mitigation can take up to seven days, the restoring of a home following storm damage can take days or even months depending upon the level of damage. It is best to consult with the Crew Chief, AND the Construction Manager on your options as it relates to the restoring of your home.

SERVPRO of LBL North is #HeretoHelp following any storm damage your residence or business may incur. Our emergency line is open 24 hours a day and we may be reached at (270) 753-1160.

Customer service and the SERVPRO of lbl north promise

1/6/2023 (Permalink)

Customer Satisfaction and the SERVPRO Promise

Unfortunately, we live in a day and time where convenience seems to trump good old-fashioned customer service. With most organizations, you can either have one, or the other. You can have quick service, get the job done, but it comes with an often times rude, or other individual with less than a desirable personality. However, having both convenience and high-quality customer service is not necessarily a thing of the past. At SERVPRO of LBL North, we embody and strive for providing both of these key elements.

When we arrive at your residence or business, we want to see the issue from your perspective. How will this incident affect you from the time we begin the drying or restoration process to the time we conduct our final clean up. To us, you are not just another customer. We love meeting new people, learning a little about you, and providing you with such a good quality service that we become your “go-to” anytime disaster strikes your home.

In the end, we understand that a happy customer is our greatest asset. If our service does not meet 5-Star expectations, give us the opportunity to make it right. SERVPRO of LBL North is here for you in your time of need. Call our office at (270) 753-1160 and let us know how we can better serve you!

Customer service and the SERVPRO of lbl north promise

1/6/2023 (Permalink)

Customer Satisfaction and the SERVPRO Promise

Unfortunately, we live in a day and time where convenience seems to trump good old-fashioned customer service. With most organizations, you can either have one, or the other. You can have quick service, get the job done, but it comes with an often times rude, or other individual with less than a desirable personality. However, having both convenience and high-quality customer service is not necessarily a thing of the past. At SERVPRO of LBL North, we embody and strive for providing both of these key elements.

When we arrive at your residence or business, we want to see the issue from your perspective. How will this incident affect you from the time we begin the drying or restoration process to the time we conduct our final clean up. To us, you are not just another customer. We love meeting new people, learning a little about you, and providing you with such a good quality service that we become your “go-to” anytime disaster strikes your home.

In the end, we understand that a happy customer is our greatest asset. If our service does not meet 5-Star expectations, give us the opportunity to make it right. SERVPRO of LBL North is here for you in your time of need. Call our office at (270) 753-1160 and let us know how we can better serve you!

Customer service and the SERVPRO of lbl north promise

1/6/2023 (Permalink)

Customer Satisfaction and the SERVPRO Promise

Unfortunately, we live in a day and time where convenience seems to trump good old-fashioned customer service. With most organizations, you can either have one, or the other. You can have quick service, get the job done, but it comes with an often times rude, or other individual with less than a desirable personality. However, having both convenience and high-quality customer service is not necessarily a thing of the past. At SERVPRO of LBL North, we embody and strive for providing both of these key elements.

When we arrive at your residence or business, we want to see the issue from your perspective. How will this incident affect you from the time we begin the drying or restoration process to the time we conduct our final clean up. To us, you are not just another customer. We love meeting new people, learning a little about you, and providing you with such a good quality service that we become your “go-to” anytime disaster strikes your home.

In the end, we understand that a happy customer is our greatest asset. If our service does not meet 5-Star expectations, give us the opportunity to make it right. SERVPRO of LBL North is here for you in your time of need. Call our office at (270) 753-1160 and let us know how we can better serve you!

Cleaning Carpets- Let's Learn Some Terms

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Every career field has special terminology. Understanding that terminology and using them gives you credibility as professionals within your industry. Let's take a look at some of the terminology your SERVPRO professional would use when cleaning your carpets. 

Absorption would be a common word used to describe some stain removal processes in carpets and textiles. This word means that liquids or gases are taken into the fabric and fibers through capillary, osmotic, or chemical reactions. An example would be the use of a towel or stain absorbing powder to move the liquid from one to the other. 

Adsorption would most likely be an unfamiliar word that describes a substance being attached to the surface of the fabric or textile. An example would be applying a topical treatment such as a fire retardant or stain retardant. 

Dispersion is the breaking up of solid soils so they can be separated and suspended in the cleaning solution. Another term to describe this process is deflocculation. 

Surfactants are used to lower the surface tension of water-based products. It makes water "wetter"! Detergents, alcohol-based products, and heat are all surfactants. 

Next time you have your carpet cleaned, you'll know the terms of the professionals!

Restoring Your Property After A Fire Damage Event

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding, water, and fire damage events at 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.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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 LBL North

SERVPRO of LBL North specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water or fire 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.

Smoke and Soot Clean Up

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

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 LBL North 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 – (270) 753-1160

SERVPRO of LBL North Specializes In Flooded Basements

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - (270) 753-1160

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of LBL North and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (270) 753-1160

Preventing Space Heater Fires

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Approximately 25,000 house fires every year are attributed to space heaters. User error is the primary cause, although heaters without essential safety features may malfunction and pose a fire risk. Here are five ways that you can prevent a burned space heater from starting a fire in your home.

1. Keep a minimum of three feet between space heaters and combustibles. Combustibles include bedding, curtains, and upholstered furniture. You should also only operate a space heater on a hard, level, non-flammable surface.

2. Don't operate heaters unattended around pets or kids. Children, cats, and dogs don't understand the principles of fire safety.

3. Purchase a space heater with safety features. One of the best ways to prevent a burned space heater is to purchase a model that automatically shuts off when it overheats. Check the model you are considering for a safety certification label, ground fault circuit interrupter plug, and a sturdy cord that is at least six feet long. Make sure the heater has all of the features you need to stay warm while running a very low risk of fire.

4. Turn off or unplug heaters when not in use. This can reduce the risk of a fire starting when you are elsewhere in your home or away from home.

5. Avoid plugging other electronics into the same outlet as a space heater. You should also never use an extension cord, as this equipment heightens the overheating risk.

Your heater can only work as designed if it is kept in working condition. You may need to regularly clean the filter on your space heater to prevent it from overheating. In addition to following these steps, you should also test the smoke alarms in your home and replace batteries or damaged units. If a burned space heater does cause a fire, contact a smoke cleanup service in Western, Kentucky.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROmurraybentoncadizprinceton.com/.

Water Damage? We Have You Covered

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of LBL North 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 LBL North 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 – 270-753-1160

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 LBL North

SERVPRO of LBL North 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.

Spring Storm Preparedness

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Prepare for Spring Severe Weather

    With the unusually warm weather upon us, and the heavy amount of rain that has fallen over the course of the Winter, it is imperative to understand the implications this combination of weather events could potentially bring, mainly severe weather and flooding.

    Severe Weather in and of itself can consist of high winds, torrential rains, tornadoes and flooding. The part most concerning is flooding. According to the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) flooding is the most common natural disaster. While flooding from a broken pipe, faulty dishwasher, or other household appliance presents clean water into the home, water from a flood poses significant concern when it comes to what’s “in” the water.

    The Center’s for Disease Control (CDC) explains that water from a flood, or outside source could potentially contain disease, chemicals, bacteria, human waste and other contaminants that could bring about long-term health risks if exposed to for extended lengths of time. When your home is exposed to outside flood water, it is imperative that you contact SERVPRO of LBL North immediately so that we can minimize the effects of this damage. Our offices can be reached at (270) 753-1160.

Storm Damage? Now What?

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, it does happen, hopefully not often. With the changes in our current weather patterns, it seems heavier rains, stronger winds, and overall severe weather seems to be getting more, well….. severe. So what do you do when severe weather strikes your home? Most severe weather damage is a result of wind, which in turn exposes your home to the subsequent rain which enters the interior of the residence. Here are some recommended steps to take immediately if this occurs:

• CALL SERVPRO of LBL North! While the damage may be minimal “looking” early on, you have no idea where the watered entered, nor where it had traveled before it became noticeable to you. It is best to call the professionals who are available 24 hours a day.
• Gather insurance documents and prepare to have those for when SERVPRO of LBL North arrives. It is not mandatory that you have this information in order to call us, however, it helps us to understand how we can assist as we move through the initial inspection process of your home or business.
• Listen closely to the Crew Chief as he/she explains the process, and this is the time to ask any questions as it pertains to the process. Our Crew Chiefs are happy to explain the drying science, as well as how each piece of equipment functions to help restore your home to its normal level of dryness.
• BE PATIENT! Our job as the premier restoration company in the nation is to ensure your home is dry following storm damage. We know the fans and dehumidifiers may be a touch loud, and you may be tempted to turn them off to catch your favorite television series. Do not alter the equipment left behind by a company. If there is an issue with the equipment, please consult with your Crew Chief.
• Be prepared to contact a construction company to replace the materials removed from the home that were affected by the storm. While SERVPRO of LBL North does have a construction team that can restore your home like new, the mitigation process goes much faster than the replacement process. While a standard water damage mitigation can take up to seven days, the restoring of a home following storm damage can take days or even months depending upon the level of damage. It is best to consult with the Crew Chief, AND the Construction Manager on your options as it relates to the restoring of your home.

SERVPRO of LBL North is #HeretoHelp following any storm damage your residence or business may incur. Our emergency line is open 24 hours a day and we may be reached at (270) 753-1160.

Making A Plan

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

One of the biggest mistakes any family can make is failing to anticipate disaster striking home. Home fires, floods, lightning strikes, earthquakes, tornadoes, etc., all can happen and often with very little warning. SERVPRO of LBL North is taking the initiative in its region to ensure the communities it serves are aware of the importance of planning properly. Taking some tips from Ready.gov, we would like to share some of those tips to our SERVPRO community.

1. Receiving Warnings: In the present day, most people have at minimum one smartphone in the home. However, if these smartphones are on silent, vibrate, or are powered down, how else will you receive notice of danger, be it weather or otherwise. Do you have carbon monoxide or smoke detectors in the home? Are the batteries changed routinely? If not, it may be worth your while to either install these devices, or set up a schedule to begin replacing these batteries at the minimum twice annually.
2. Shelter Plan: In the event your home suffers a disaster, which makes living in it temporarily impossible, or dangerous to your health, where will you go? In some cases, your insurance policy may contain provisions which will cover temporary lodging in a local hotel. Perhaps you could make emergency arrangements with a family member, or a neighbor. A shelter plan absolutely MUST be part of your contingency, and all members of the household should know this plan.
3. Where to Go: In the event of a fire, earthquake, tornado strike, etc., where your home is affected while you and your loved ones are in it, a plan should be made as to where to assemble should everyone need to quickly evacuate the home. Perhaps at the end of the driveway, the mailbox, the neighbors house. These are just some examples of where families could agree to meet in the rare event of a disaster strike. Make sure everyone knows the route to get to the assembly point, and that it is one that is familiar to all members of the household.
4. Communication Plan: In this day and age where families are constantly on the go, there is a chance that when disaster strikes some members of the household may not be home. Consider a communication plan that everyone agrees on, and that everyone is aware of that resides within the home. It is also important that immediate family members outside of the home, or neighbors should be included on this emergency plan. In the event an emergency strikes the home, the communication plan should be implemented immediately, with detailed instructions provided as to the 1) the type of disaster, 2) where the family will stay in the event the residence is uninhabitable or a danger to enter, 3) any additional instructions necessary.

These emergency plans should be communicated and discussed with all members of the family, even the little ones, especially since a fire or other emergency could leave the little ones separated from the rest of the family during the event. Find creative ways to share fire safety, earthquake and other natural disaster drills with the little ones and rehearse those on a routine basis. More information can be found by visiting the resources provided below.

Lastly, allow SERVPRO of LBL North to come out and provide to you a free Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP) which we will keep on file in the event disaster strikes your home. This will enable the insurance company, SERVPRO, and other entities that will respond to the scene to quickly assess the important components, and begin to restore your home back “Like it never even happened.”

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial carpet cleaning is a job that is very competitive in today's society. Whether you are needing your carpet cleaning due to damages, such as fire or water damage, or just because it is a frequently used and worn down area that needs a good cleaning, SERVPRO of LBL North team will go above and beyond to meet your expectations. For more severe jobs, the Alabama team may even come up to the job and price the cleaning. SERVPRO teams from all over come together and do what they can to make sure that the customer is happy and completely satisfied with the outcome. 

If you ever need commercial carpet cleaning or even duct cleaning, call SERVPRO of LBL North today!

(270) 753-1160

Why SERVPRO?

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

When I was made aware of SERVPRO and the opportunity to serve a local franchise as their Sales and Marketing Manager, the first thing I did (as many do, or should do) is conduct some brief research on the organization. I had observed the bright green trucks buzzing around in the community, and I recognized the orange house as well as the name SERVPRO. As someone on the outside of the organization who had never utilized them before, I was not aware of what exactly the company did.

     What I saw was a Mission Statement and Vision which was very customer centric, which, any company that provides a service should be. Where the line between a standard company and service versus an exceptional company and service differs, is the ownership in the language provided in the Mission and/or Vision of the organization. In other words, the language is more than just words on piece of paper, it is lived and/or practiced from the top down.

     Shortly after accepting the position and the completion of the training program, it was time to hit the road and begin introducing myself to the communities in which our franchise services. Just as I was getting to know our customers and agents by name, COVID-19 set in, and as it has for anyone who relies on a face to face continuous relationship by which to keep the wheels turning, this disrupted that routine, forcing all of us in the SERVPRO organization from the top down to adapt and evolve.

     From a marketing standpoint we are taught in college to look for ways to capitalize on an opportunity. Naturally for a professional cleaning organization, the knee jerk reaction to a viral pandemic is to recognize that the services we provide are a (not necessarily THE) solution to the problem. Naturally, a marketer would understand and see that through this, the organization has the potential to not only be a solution to a problem, but also see an uptick in cleaning service opportunities.

     During a sales forum weeks into the pandemic as shutdowns began to increase across the nation, the question was raised as to why there were no television advertisements communicating the message that SERVPRO has a potential solution to the question of disinfecting facilities. The response given was simple, but strong. As the national leader in cleaning and restoration, there is an ethical responsibility to recognize the depth and severity of the national crisis. Instead of flooding the airwaves with advertisements which could be viewed by many as a means to capitalize on what continues to be a tragic and uncertain time in our nation’s history, SERVPRO turned to its dedicated team of marketing professionals to approach their respective areas based on the needs of the community, and from a sense of personal compassion. In other words, there is no better way to say “We’re Here to Help”, than to do it in person, from a position of genuine care.

     SERVPRO’s Mission Statement reads “To develop a team of quality people who focus on excellent service, fairness, and mutual respect.” From this, and a position of recognizing the uncertainty many families and businesses in our community are facing, we can assess each situation and request for help on an individual basis, and the sense of compassion that comes along with this, can only be done by living up to the final three factors of excellent service, fairness, and mutual respect.

     SERVPRO of LBL North understands that each of our customers are trying to balance the safety of both their employees and their customers, and the ability to lend a hand during a time of need is a genuine gift. Our organization has been able to mobilize crews on a moment’s notice when the call comes in that assistance is needed to deep clean and/or disinfect a facility to help minimize the chances that members of our community may have in contracting the virus. When our production teams have been stretched thin with other projects, our sales and marketing team as well as our office staff have stepped up to ensure we are able to help our community. It isn’t necessarily enough to say “we’re all in this together”, but SERVPRO is most certainly “Here to Help”.

Getting An Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

3/25/2022

It happens more than you think, but is one of the most seldom discussed subjects at meetings and/or training sessions. What happens when a main water line bursts inside the building, or, when someone detects the smell of gas in the air while the building is being heated? When severe weather strikes, do your managers know where to go, and where to send your customers? What happens when a tornado, hurricane, or flood impacts your business directly? Communication is the key of course, but without the proper plan, there is nothing to communicate on a consistent level.

An Emergency Ready Profile is what separates guessing from an actual plan of attack should something detrimental happen to your business. Here at SERVPRO of LBL North, we have an entire team of professionals who, upon request, will come to your business, and complete your Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for you. We will ask you some questions in reference to points of contact, service providers, etc., and then we will take care of filling in the remainder of the form. Once completed, you will be provided a copy to share with your managers, and insurance providers, and we will keep a copy as well. In the rare event disaster does strike, you will be prepared, and SERVPRO of LBL North will already know how to respond.

To get your ERP completed, please contact our office at (731) 642-1284 for more information and to schedule a visit by our Sales and Marketing Manager, or a Sales and Marketing Representative.

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

3/22/2022

Commercial carpet cleaning is a job that is very competitive in today's society. Whether you are needing your carpet cleaning due to damages, such as fire or water damage, or just because it is a frequently used and worn down area that needs a good cleaning, SERVPRO of LBL North will go above and beyond to meet your expectations. SERVPRO teams from all over come together and do what they can to make sure that the customer is happy and completely satisfied with the outcome. 

If you ever need commercial carpet cleaning or even duct cleaning, call SERVPRO of LBL North!

(270) 753-1160

Smoke and Soot Cleanup for your LBL North Residence

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

3/22/2022

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 LBL North 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 – (270) 753-1160

When Storms Hit Marshall, Calloway, Lyon, Trigg, Caldwell or Livingston counties

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

3/22/2022

SERVPRO of LBL North 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 Marshall, Calloway, Lyon, Trigg, Caldwell or Livingston counties, 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 (270) 753-1160

Storm Damage? Now What?

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

3/22/2022

Unfortunately, it does happen, hopefully not often. With the changes in our current weather patterns, it seems heavier rains, stronger winds, and overall severe weather seems to be getting more, well….. severe. So what do you do when severe weather strikes your home? Most severe weather damage is a result of wind, which in turn exposes your home to the subsequent rain which enters the interior of the residence. Here are some recommended steps to take immediately if this occurs:

• CALL SERVPRO of LBL North! While the damage may be minimal “looking” early on, you have no idea where the watered entered, nor where it had traveled before it became noticeable to you. It is best to call the professionals who are available 24 hours a day.
• Gather insurance documents and prepare to have those for when SERVPRO of LBL North arrives. It is not mandatory that you have this information in order to call us, however, it helps us to understand how we can assist as we move through the initial inspection process of your home or business.
• Listen closely to the Crew Chief as he/she explains the process, and this is the time to ask any questions as it pertains to the process. Our Crew Chiefs are happy to explain the drying science, as well as how each piece of equipment functions to help restore your home to its normal level of dryness.
• BE PATIENT! Our job as the premier restoration company in the nation is to ensure your home is dry following storm damage. We know the fans and dehumidifiers may be a touch loud, and you may be tempted to turn them off to catch your favorite television series. Do not alter the equipment left behind by a company. If there is an issue with the equipment, please consult with your Crew Chief.
• Be prepared to contact a construction company to replace the materials removed from the home that were affected by the storm. While SERVPRO of LBL North does have a construction team that can restore your home like new, the mitigation process goes much faster than the replacement process. While a standard water damage mitigation can take up to seven days, the restoring of a home following storm damage can take days or even months depending upon the level of damage. It is best to consult with the Crew Chief, AND the Construction Manager on your options as it relates to the restoring of your home.

SERVPRO of LBL North is #HeretoHelp following any storm damage your residence or business may incur. Our emergency line is open 24 hours a day and we may be reached at (270) 753-1160.

Is Your Business Prepared For Disaster?

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Running a business, be it a small locally owned business, or large corporate operation, being prepared in the event an unexpected event happens is crucial to making sure whatever situation arises, the right help is identified and the problem is resolved as fast as possible. In fact, over 50% of businesses close down completely following a major disaster simply because no plan or approach was composed leading up to said disaster.

SERVPRO of LBL North can help with this. Our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) will help you with putting this plan together. The best part is, we do it for you. All you need to do is provide us with some vital information, and we go to work putting together your profile which once provided, will give crucial details to law enforcement, emergency responders, SERVPRO and other entities which will come to your rescue in the event of a disaster. For example, our ERP includes some of the following information and more:

• Points of Contact (POC) for your organization
• Locations of all water, electric and gas shut offs (including photos of each element)
• A comprehensive list of service providers (water, gas, electric, etc.)
• A detailed chain of command so as to authorize SERVPRO of LBL North to get started as soon as possible following an emergency
• …….Much More

ERP’s can also be put together for a residence as well. If you would like an ERP put together for your home or business, contact our office at (270) 753-1160 to schedule a visit to your location.

Smoke & Soot Cleanup For Your LBL North Residence.

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

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 LBL North 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 – (270) 753-1160

Fire Residue

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Fire can become a disastrous thing. QUICK. Not just the fire itself, but everything that comes along with it. As often happens, the need for cleanup was more widespread than the fire itself. SERVPRO of LBL North workers will come and make any bad situation worse. While fire does much more physical damage, the smoke and soot that comes along can sometimes be the more difficult part of the cleanup/restoration process. Our SERVPRO of LBL North team will do whatever it takes to get your home, business, etc. back to the way it was, all while taking the stress of a bad occurrence off your plate. Our diligent, knowledgeable team is just a call away!

What Happens When You Call SERVPRO of LBL North

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Have you ever wondered what happens after SERVPRO of LBL North is called to the scene of a water damage event?

1. Our Crew Chief meets with customer to discuss remediation process and questions or concerns.
2. Water extraction begins.
   • SERVPRO of LBL North uses a truck-mounted commercial extractor to remove any standing water.
3. Damage is assessed.
   • Anything that is salvageable is removed and kept safe from further damage.
   • Unsalvageable material is discarded (including contents, drywall, flooring, etc.)
4. Equipment is set up.
   • Industrial grade dehumidifiers and high-speed air movers are strategically placed in space to remove remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors.
5. Situation is monitored.
   • Our crew chief and crew members return to the scene periodically to monitor drying process.
6. Once dry, reconstruction can begin.

There are many steps involved in drying out a home or commercial property after a water damage event. However, the amazing and unparalleled service our team provides makes the process as seemless and hassle-free as possible for our customers.

Call SERVPRO of LBL North to help with your water damage event.

270-753-1160

Flooding in Murray, KY- What To Do VS What Not To Do

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Murray, Kentucky and the surrounding western Kentucky region are known to be prone to a certain among of flooding. This year we received a significant amount of rain during the spring months and the flood gates had to be installed. SERVPRO of LBL North has a few tips to help you remember what TO DO and what NOT TO DO during a flood event.

What Not To Do:

1. Do not use your household vacuum to remove water.
2. Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet.
3. Do not leave wet fabrics ups. Hang fur and leather goods.

What To Do:

1. Turn air condition on for maximum drying in the summer.
2. Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
3. Remove art objects and collectibles to a safe, dry place.

For further information on how SERVPRO of LBL North would tackle your flood damage event, visit us here, or call us at (270) 573-1160 today!

What To Do About Frozen Pipes

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

To keep pipes from freezing on an outside wall:

1. Let hot and cold water trickle or drip at night from a faucet.

2. Open cabinet doors to allow more heat to get to un-insulated pipes under a sink or near an outer wall.

3. Make sure heat is left on and set no lower than 55 degrees.

4. If you plan to be away: (1) Have someone check your house daily to make sure the heat is still on to prevent freezing, or (2) drain and shut off the water system (except indoor sprinkler systems).

If Pipes Freeze:

1. Make sure you and your family knows how to shut off the water, in case pipes burst.

2. NEVER try to thaw a pipe with an open flame or torch. Use a hair dryer instead.

3. Always be careful of the potential for electric shock in and around standing water.

Customer Service and the SERVPRO of LBL North Promise

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

Customer Satisfaction and the SERVPRO Promise

Unfortunately, we live in a day and time where convenience seems to trump good old-fashioned customer service. With most organizations, you can either have one, or the other. You can have quick service, get the job done, but it comes with an often times rude, or other individual with less than a desirable personality. However, having both convenience and high-quality customer service is not necessarily a thing of the past. At SERVPRO of LBL North, we embody and strive for providing both of these key elements.

When we arrive at your residence or business, we want to see the issue from your perspective. How will this incident affect you from the time we begin the drying or restoration process to the time we conduct our final clean up. To us, you are not just another customer. We love meeting new people, learning a little about you, and providing you with such a good quality service that we become your “go-to” anytime disaster strikes your home.

In the end, we understand that a happy customer is our greatest asset. If our service does not meet 5-Star expectations, give us the opportunity to make it right. SERVPRO of LBL North is here for you in your time of need. Call our office at (270) 753-1160 and let us know how we can better serve you!

Customer Service and the SERVPRO of LBL North Promise

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

Customer Satisfaction and the SERVPRO Promise

Unfortunately, we live in a day and time where convenience seems to trump good old-fashioned customer service. With most organizations, you can either have one, or the other. You can have quick service, get the job done, but it comes with an often times rude, or other individual with less than a desirable personality. However, having both convenience and high-quality customer service is not necessarily a thing of the past. At SERVPRO of LBL North, we embody and strive for providing both of these key elements.

When we arrive at your residence or business, we want to see the issue from your perspective. How will this incident affect you from the time we begin the drying or restoration process to the time we conduct our final clean up. To us, you are not just another customer. We love meeting new people, learning a little about you, and providing you with such a good quality service that we become your “go-to” anytime disaster strikes your home.

In the end, we understand that a happy customer is our greatest asset. If our service does not meet 5-Star expectations, give us the opportunity to make it right. SERVPRO of LBL North is here for you in your time of need. Call our office at (270) 753-1160 and let us know how we can better serve you!

Damage Doesn't Stand A Chance

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of LBL North, we take pride in our work. When you call us, we are here to help. Not just to come clean your home, property, or business, but to get the job done and get it done right. We have just the right people and just the right equipment to come and assess the damage, whether it be fire, water, mold, or another, provide you with a reasonable price that fits you and your situation, get to work, and make sure the work is done quickly, efficiently, and as professionally as possible because we are not just a restoration company. We are a company for the people. We want you and your families to be 100% satisfied with the job we do. We will do whatever it takes to assure that you and your property are well taken care of when we are on the job. Your possessions will be cared for and treated just the way we would want our things taken care of. Whatever the damage and severity may be, SERVPRO has exactly what you need for restoration, clean-up, reconstruction, etc. From our friendly office staff to our wonderful work crew, our people are your people for all of your restoration needs. We can get the job done, "Like it never even happened." Call us today at (270) 753-1160 to get started.

Making A Plan

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

One of the biggest mistakes any family can make is failing to anticipate disaster striking home. Home fires, floods, lightning strikes, earthquakes, tornadoes, etc., all can happen and often with very little warning. SERVPRO of LBL North is taking the initiative in its region to ensure the communities it serves are aware of the importance of planning properly. Taking some tips from Ready.gov, we would like to share some of those tips to our SERVPRO community.

1. Receiving Warnings: In the present day, most people have at minimum one smartphone in the home. However, if these smartphones are on silent, vibrate, or are powered down, how else will you receive notice of danger, be it weather or otherwise. Do you have carbon monoxide or smoke detectors in the home? Are the batteries changed routinely? If not, it may be worth your while to either install these devices, or set up a schedule to begin replacing these batteries at the minimum twice annually.
2. Shelter Plan: In the event your home suffers a disaster, which makes living in it temporarily impossible, or dangerous to your health, where will you go? In some cases, your insurance policy may contain provisions which will cover temporary lodging in a local hotel. Perhaps you could make emergency arrangements with a family member, or a neighbor. A shelter plan absolutely MUST be part of your contingency, and all members of the household should know this plan.
3. Where to Go: In the event of a fire, earthquake, tornado strike, etc., where your home is affected while you and your loved ones are in it, a plan should be made as to where to assemble should everyone need to quickly evacuate the home. Perhaps at the end of the driveway, the mailbox, the neighbors house. These are just some examples of where families could agree to meet in the rare event of a disaster strike. Make sure everyone knows the route to get to the assembly point, and that it is one that is familiar to all members of the household.
4. Communication Plan: In this day and age where families are constantly on the go, there is a chance that when disaster strikes some members of the household may not be home. Consider a communication plan that everyone agrees on, and that everyone is aware of that resides within the home. It is also important that immediate family members outside of the home, or neighbors should be included on this emergency plan. In the event an emergency strikes the home, the communication plan should be implemented immediately, with detailed instructions provided as to the 1) the type of disaster, 2) where the family will stay in the event the residence is uninhabitable or a danger to enter, 3) any additional instructions necessary.

These emergency plans should be communicated and discussed with all members of the family, even the little ones, especially since a fire or other emergency could leave the little ones separated from the rest of the family during the event. Find creative ways to share fire safety, earthquake and other natural disaster drills with the little ones and rehearse those on a routine basis. More information can be found by visiting the resources provided below.

Lastly, allow SERVPRO of LBL North to come out and provide to you a free Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP) which we will keep on file in the event disaster strikes your home. This will enable the insurance company, SERVPRO, and other entities that will respond to the scene to quickly assess the important components, and begin to restore your home back “Like it never even happened.”

Resources:

Department of Homeland Security Ready.gov Website

Department of Homeland Security Ready Kids Website

Fire Caution For Cold Weather

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

November 2, 2021

With more heating appliances and equipment running to keep our homes comfortable and systems running smoothly during the cold months, the risk of a house fire increases dramatically.

 Causes
1. Heating System - Whether you heat your home with a wood/pellet stove or oil/gas/propane furnace, a breakdown in safety equipment or poor user maintenance can lead to a fire. Do not plug space heaters into power strips and be sure heaters are on stable, level ground.

 2. Cooking - The top cause of house fires in the United States is cooking. Colder weather brings us indoors to cook, and some of the best meals for the winter are slow-cooked, which means your stove and other appliances are plugged in and working for longer periods of time. Inspect all appliances for broken wires and other defective material. Never leave food cooking on a stove top unattended, especially if cooking with any kind of grease. If you use your grill to cook outside in the winter, be sure it is located away from the house with proper ventilation for smoke and heat.

 3. Smoking - If you smoke, consider smoking outside, but remember to properly dispose of your ashes. Do not simply flick them on the ground, which could be dry, and paired with a strong wind, primed to start a major fire. Do not smoke around oxygen tanks or combustible material in garages and sheds.

 4. Electrical - Winter means holidays, and holidays mean decorations – do not overload outlets or daisy-chain power strips, and do not leave decorations plugged in when you are not home or are asleep. Inspect all lights before putting them on your trees and homes, and be sure you are using the appropriate cord for indoor/outdoor use. Never leave candles burning unattended or where pets and children can knock them over.

Although we hope you and your love ones remain safe this winter, if your home becomes affected by a fire, please call SERVPRO of LBL North at 270-753-1160.

Storm Preparedness

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

November 2, 2021

Storm Preparedness

Kentucky residents are beginning to enter into the winter storm season. According to the Weather Channel, the percentage of severe weather which includes tornadic weather begins to rapidly increase in December. Given the warmer Winter season we have underwent thus far, it is expected to see an increase in severe weather earlier in the year. Severe weather could include excessive rain/floods, straight line winds, hail, and of course, tornadoes. Are you and your family prepared? Here are a few helpful tips from the National Weather Service:

• BE READY – If you do not have a weather radio in the home, these can be purchased for a reasonable cost at just about any local convenience store or online. It needs to be NOAA certified, and you will need to identify which specific band/frequency to set it to in the event it does not set itself automatically. You can find those HERE, and then identify the frequency for your area, then set your radio accordingly. Make sure the weather radio can both plug in, and operate on some other form of alternative source (batteries, solar, or crank).
• SIGN UP FOR NOTIFICATIONS: Various apps on your Android or Apple phone can alert you to disaster, and guide you once the disaster has concluded. Make sure to have some means of reaching the outside world in the event disaster strikes.
• COMMUNICATION PLAN: In the event you must evacuate your home, or disaster strikes when the family is separated, have a plan for notifying members who reside in the home, as well as other members of concern (immediate family, co-workers, etc.)
• REHEARSE THE PLAN: Run through the communication plan, and overall disaster plan routinely with all members of the household. The plan of action should be second nature in the rare event emergency strikes.
• HELP WHERE HELP IS NEEDED: Once you have secured your home and family, check with neighbors to see if help is needed. Contact emergency services if help is required.

Other helpful tips include making sure your insurance documents, identification, credit card/banking information is all saved digitally in the event your home is destroyed. The more prepared you are, the faster the claims adjuster can work with you to repair/rebuild your home.

SERVPRO of LBL North is an expert in helping make these preparations. Contact the office at (270) 753-1160 and ask to meet with a SERVPRO representative at your home or business to begin building your Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP).

Resources for Additional Information:

National Weather Service Safety Tips

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Radio Frequency Finder

Water Damage- We Have You Covered

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of LBL North 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 LBL North 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 – 270-753-1160

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 LBL North

SERVPRO of LBL North 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.

Preventing Space Heater Damage

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Approximately 25,000 house fires every year are attributed to space heaters. User error is the primary cause, although heaters without essential safety features may malfunction and pose a fire risk. Here are five ways that you can prevent a burned space heater from starting a fire in your home.

1. Keep a minimum of three feet between space heaters and combustibles. Combustibles include bedding, curtains, and upholstered furniture. You should also only operate a space heater on a hard, level, non-flammable surface.

2. Don't operate heaters unattended around pets or kids. Children, cats, and dogs don't understand the principles of fire safety.

3. Purchase a space heater with safety features. One of the best ways to prevent a burned space heater is to purchase a model that automatically shuts off when it overheats. Check the model you are considering for a safety certification label, ground fault circuit interrupter plug, and a sturdy cord that is at least six feet long. Make sure the heater has all of the features you need to stay warm while running a very low risk of fire.

4. Turn off or unplug heaters when not in use. This can reduce the risk of a fire starting when you are elsewhere in your home or away from home.

5. Avoid plugging other electronics into the same outlet as a space heater. You should also never use an extension cord, as this equipment heightens the overheating risk.

Your heater can only work as designed if it is kept in working condition. You may need to regularly clean the filter on your space heater to prevent it from overheating. In addition to following these steps, you should also test the smoke alarms in your home and replace batteries or damaged units. If a burned space heater does cause a fire, contact a smoke cleanup service in Western, Kentucky.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROmurraybentoncadizprinceton.com/.

Diverting Water Away From Your Home

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

November 2, 2021

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

“Home is where love resides, memories are made, friends and family belong, and laughter never ends.” We all want to ensure that our houses will be home to ourselves and our family for many years. The thought of water flooding the home, foundation damage, soil erosion and grass deterioration are all nightmares that we hear of all too often. Although we hope these things never happen, there are ways to help avoid these nightmares. The ability to draw water away from your home could save you time, money, and heartache during the next rainstorm and in the long run prevent expensive foundation repair or other associated issues. If water builds up around the foundation of the house, it can allow for the water to seep into walls, which can cause moisture, as well as mold to begin intruding into your home.

Below we have provided four ways to draw water away from your home…

1. Install a Rain Gutter System: North Dakota State University Extension Service has conducted research on this topic, and they found “that 1 inch of water on 1,000 square feet of roof translates to 620 gallons of water”. Slanted roofs cause the water to run off, but without a gutter system the water will begin to pool around the base of the house. “Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends using an extended rain spout of at least 5 feet at the end of the downspout” this allows for enough distance for the water to be discarded away from the house.
2. Create A Barrier: Over time your soil is altered by the runoff of water from the roof of your house. This leads to the soil moving and creating those unwanted pools of water that build up around your house. It is suggested to “rebuild” the soil around your house to redirect the runoff water. In an article in the "Chicago Tribune" they suggest “building a slope of topsoil or crushed stone that extends from the home 2 to 3 feet. As well as the NDSU Extension Service suggests that the slopes be 1 inch higher per every foot in length.
3. Dig A Trench: Once the water is carried away from the house, then it is important to get rid of the water before it ventures back towards your house. One of the ways to do this is to build a trench. The trench is suggested to be 3 to 4 ft deep, and 2 to 3 ft across by an article in “Chicago Tribune”. The trench should be in the lowest part of the property and in a U-shape. Place filter fabric on the high end to filter out the dirt and silt, as well as fill the trench with gravel or crushed rock.
4. Build A Dry Well: If yards are small and easily hold water, the gutters and barriers may not be enough to get rid of water. A dry wall may need to be installed to get rid of standing water that threatens your home. Dry Wells are holes in the ground that are filled with gravel or crushed rock that are 3 to 4 ft wide and 5 to 6 ft deep. These allow for a slow transfer of water to the ground.

Although these seem like time consuming ideas, they can ultimately save you from the nightmares of water damage. If you have questions about the preventative actions check out the link below. Also, if you have any further questions or damage has already begun, please contact SERVPRO of LBL North at (270) 753-1160.

Resources:

Drawing Water Away From The House

Handling the Hurricanes

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

As hurricane Elsa strikes the East Coast, rain and thunderstorms may begin to move into your area. We know that major storms and heavy rains raises the risk of storm damage, but here at SERVPRO, we can help you let it go. Our teams are prepared to deal with water and storm damages at any point in time. It is very important to remain safe and healthy during times like these. When weather conditions start to get rough, it is important to have a plan. First, you need to make sure you are in a safe, secure area, like a storm shelter or basement, with no doors or windows. The weather may cause the glass to break, leading to injuries, which raises another problem, aside from the weather. Another tip if you are on the road or outdoors: Head for the car, preferably a hard-topped one as well. Make sure the windows are rolled up, and you are not touching any metal part of the frame or interior, including the steering wheel because if lightning strikes the car and you are touching metal, the metal in the car will act as a conductor, causing you to be struck. Another useful, but uncommonly heard, tip: Do not try to wash your hands, take a shower, wash dishes, or do laundry. Metal pipes in the plumbing, if struck by lightning, can also act as a conductor, which could be extremely dangerous if struck by lightning. As always, stay safe in these situations, and if you need restoration, call your SERVPRO of LBL South at (731) 642-1284.

Damage Doesn't Stand a Chance

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of LBL South, we take pride in our work. When you call us, we are here to help. Not just to come clean your home, property, or business, but to get the job done and get it done right. We have just the right people and just the right equipment to come and assess the damage, whether it be fire, water, mold, or another, provide you with a reasonable price that fits you and your situation, get to work, and make sure the work is done quickly, efficiently, and as professionally as possible because we are not just a restoration company. We are a company for the people. We want you and your families to be 100% satisfied with the job we do. We will do whatever it takes to assure that you and your property are well taken care of when we are on the job. Your possessions will be cared for and treated just the way we would want our things taken care of. Whatever the damage and severity may be, SERVPRO has exactly what you need for restoration, clean-up, reconstruction, etc. From our friendly office staff to our wonderful work crew, our people are your people for all of your restoration needs. We can get the job done, "Like it never even happened." Call us today at (731)642-1284 to get started.

NOT Too Cool for School!

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Learning shouldn't be paused or cancelled in the event of a disaster. Educational facilities are to provide lessons and information to the students; SERVPRO is to provide a safe place to do so in the unique environment after a disaster. Our professionals are trained and knowledgeable for flexible and unique situations whether in a small school or a larger campus of higher learning. Our experience has given us the ability to provide a variety of services for educational facilities such as:

K-12 Schools, Colleges and Universities, Dormitories, Event and Sporting Arenas, Libraries, Daycares, and Pre-K Facilities

Our franchise has helped an Elementary School get back to classes as normal in Waverly, TN after a flash flood. We cleaned up a football weight room after being left shut up for the summer in an unconditioned environment in Hickman County, TN. We also helped a high school in Martin, TN after a remodel left an entire wing with mold covered surfaces due to inadequate ventilation. 

Education matters, and SERPVRO doesn't want a disaster to get in the way of learning.  

Carpet Cleaning... Let's learn some terms!

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

Every career field has special terminology. Understanding that terminology and using them gives you credibility as professionals within your industry. Let's take a look at some of the terminology your SERVPRO professional would use when cleaning your carpets. 

Absorption would be a common word used to describe some stain removal processes in carpets and textiles. This word means that liquids or gases are taken into the fabric and fibers through capillary, osmotic, or chemical reactions. An example would be the use of a towel or stain absorbing powder to move the liquid from one to the other. 

Adsorption would most likely be an unfamiliar word that describes a substance being attached to the surface of the fabric or textile. An example would be applying a topical treatment such as a fire retardant or stain retardant. 

Dispersion is the breaking up of solid soils so they can be separated and suspended in the cleaning solution. Another term to describe this process is deflocculation. 

Surfactants are used to lower the surface tension of water-based products. It makes water "wetter"! Detergents, alcohol-based products, and heat are all surfactants. 

Next time you have your carpet cleaned, you'll know the terms of the professionals! 

When the flood waters rise, we're here.

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

On February 27th we received a call from a local business owner with over a foot of water in his business. We responded that night with multiple crews to find that not only one business was affected, but six! We got busy. The owner of the restaurant that had initially called us had a goal of reopening in 4 days. We thought that would be impossible, but we persevered. With the help of some local contractors and his own staff, we were able to get him reopened in 4 days. The owner was thrilled to have his business back open. 

The rest of the businesses are going to require a little more labor and demo to get the job done, and we hope to have them back in business within the month. 

We strive to have satisfied customers. This winter season has brought many difficulties with the weather, but we are continuing to push through. 

Does Your Murray, Benton, Calvert City, Eddyville, Princeton, Cadiz, or Smithland Home Have A Mold Problem?

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call SERVPRO of LBL North Today – 270-753-1160

24-Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

January 25, 2021

SERVPRO of LBL North 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 - (270) 753-1160

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 LBL North 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 LBL North

SERVPRO of LBL North 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.

Call us today! (270)-753-1160

Mold Safety Tips

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

January 25, 2021

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 LBL South 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 LBL North 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 – 270-753-1160 SERVPRO OF LBL NORTH

Dehumidifier 101

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

DryMax Dehumidifier

Januray 25, 2021

SERVPRO of LBL North a water damage restoration professional, we need professional-grade equipment that helps us tackle the toughest of jobs and deliver outstanding results for our clients. A powerful dehumidifier is a key component in our suite of tools. But what does a dehumidifier do? 

Conventional dehumidifiers are designed for most water-damage remediation projects, and they can easily be transported from job to job and loaded and unloaded from a vehicle. They condense water vapor by passing air over refrigerated coils, and a heat pipe prevents frost from forming. This type of dehumidification can also be used in your home for moisture management. It helps to keep moisture levels more comfortable in humid environments, and helps ward off musty odors. 

We use machines called LGR Dehumidifiers. LGR stands for low-grain refrigerant, which is a fancy way of saying these dehumidifiers provide maximum power in removing moisture from the air. How do they work? LGR dehumidifiers feature a double cooling system that lowers the temperature of moisture-filled air once inside the machine. This leads to more condensation that forms on the coils inside the machine, which in turn leads to more moisture pumped out and less moisture in the air that is returned to the room.  

Now for my favorite dehumidifier! *Drumroll*

The Phoenix Dry Max! What is special about the Dry Max? It's tiny compared to its brothers and sisters, but it still packs the same punch! It has an integrated handle and wheels as well as onboard storage for the power cord and condensate hose! 

If your home has been affected by water damage, call the mitigation and restoration professionals, SERVPRO of LBL North at 270-753-1160.

24/7 - 365 days a year Emergency Services

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of LBL North 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 LBL North 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 – 270-753-1160

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.

If your home has been affected by water damage, don't wait, call us at 270-753-1160.

STORM Preparation

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

January 25, 2021

STORM Preparation

     Recently, our crews returned from a very extended STORM event as they assisted in the recovery efforts of homeowners of the Lake Charles, Louisiana area following Hurricanes Laura and Delta. Following this event, and recapping the things learned from the various scenarios faced in each of the homes, we would like to pass on to you some helpful tips that seemed to help several of our customers’ insurance claims move along much smoother following a disaster;

• While it is difficult to predict storms here in Western Kentucky (tornadoes, straight line winds, floods, etc.), we can make every effort to be prepared in the event one strikes. To do so, it is imperative that you undertake the following actions;
  1. Routinely document your residence. Take photos of the home, video of the home (interior and exterior along with general property), and make sure these are saved on a cloud drive.
  2. Keep a list of valuable items such as electronics, jewelry, firearms, and much more.
  3. Make sure all insurance policy information and documentation is kept in a digital location as well as in a physical location in the event you are forced to evacuate your residence or cannot return to it due to a natural disaster or fire.
  4. When you return to your residence, or if you stayed during the event, record and photograph any and all damage as soon as safely possible. This will be needed by the mitigation company, contractor, and especially, your insurance adjustor. Many times the water coming through a ceiling or walls will not show visible damage by the time your Adjustor arrives. Video and photographic evidence helps support and identify where mitigation work will need to be conducted.
  5. You ALWAYS have the right to request another opinion in the event you get an Adjustor that you disagree with. This is your right as a homeowner.
• Have a bug-out bag ready to go. Examples of what should go in this evacuation ready bag can be found on ready.gov.
• Have a quick list of immediate contacts. In the event your home is impacted, you will need to notify individuals that your home has been impacted, and especially in the event your home take a direct hit from straight line winds or a tornado. This will ensure those who care know you are alright.

In the event your home or business takes a direct hit or experiences a natural disaster, please do not hesitate to reach out to us 24-Hours a day at (270) 753-1160, or visit us on the web at SERVPRO of LBL North.

6 Common Causes of Electrical Fires

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

1. Common Electrical Outlets - 

Most electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets or worn out sockets that are not properly grounded. As outlets and switches get older, the wiring behind them wears as well, and wires are strung about that loosen overtime and could potentially break and cause a fire.

2. Old Electrical Wiring - 

Outdated electrical wiring often causes electrical fires. If a home is over 20 years old, it may not have the wiring capacity to handle the increased amounts of electrical appliances in today's average home, such as computers, wide-screen televisions, video players, microwaves, and air conditioners.

3. Circuit Overload - 

Unrestricted use of extension cords is a major fire hazard. When the TV, home theatre, computer, and other appliances are all plugged into a single extension cord, it creates excessive power load on a single socket which may not be designed to handle that load. This means the circuit is overloaded, and your home is at serious risk of an electric fire.

4. Old Appliances - 

Old appliances that have frayed cords or loose or faulty wiring can catch fire. Moreover, due to the high flammability of old insulation used in these appliances, a simple electrical repair to address these issues may not be enough. It's best to purchase updated appliances to ensure your safety.

5. Light Fixtures - 

Light fixtures, lamps and light bulbs are another common reason for electrical fires. Installing a bulb with a wattage that is too high for the lamps and light fixtures, is a leading cause of electrical fires. Always check the maximum recommended bulb wattage on any lighting fixture or lamp and never go over the recommended amount.

6. Portable Heaters -

Be conscious of where you place your space heaters in the wintertime, and never leave it on for an extended period of time, especially when you are sleeping or have left the house. Placing your portable heater next to curtains, rugs, beds, couches, and the like is one of the most common causes of fires. If you do use space heaters, use the radiator-type that diffuse heat over the entire surface of the appliance. 

Accidents do happen! If your home has been affected by a fire, please call us at 270-753-1160. 

Fire Caution for Cold Weather

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

January 25, 2021

With more heating appliances and equipment running to keep our homes comfortable and systems running smoothly during the cold months, the risk of a house fire increases dramatically.

 Causes
1. Heating System - Whether you heat your home with a wood/pellet stove or oil/gas/propane furnace, a breakdown in safety equipment or poor user maintenance can lead to a fire. Do not plug space heaters into power strips and be sure heaters are on stable, level ground.

 2. Cooking - The top cause of house fires in the United States is cooking. Colder weather brings us indoors to cook, and some of the best meals for the winter are slow-cooked, which means your stove and other appliances are plugged in and working for longer periods of time. Inspect all appliances for broken wires and other defective material. Never leave food cooking on a stove top unattended, especially if cooking with any kind of grease. If you use your grill to cook outside in the winter, be sure it is located away from the house with proper ventilation for smoke and heat.

 3. Smoking - If you smoke, consider smoking outside, but remember to properly dispose of your ashes. Do not simply flick them on the ground, which could be dry, and paired with a strong wind, primed to start a major fire. Do not smoke around oxygen tanks or combustible material in garages and sheds.

 4. Electrical - Winter means holidays, and holidays mean decorations – do not overload outlets or daisy-chain power strips, and do not leave decorations plugged in when you are not home or are asleep. Inspect all lights before putting them on your trees and homes, and be sure you are using the appropriate cord for indoor/outdoor use. Never leave candles burning unattended or where pets and children can knock them over.

Although we hope you and your love ones remain safe this winter, if your home becomes affected by a fire, please call SERVPRO of LBL North at 270-753-1160.

Should Your Business Clean The Air Ducts?

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

January 25, 2021

Answer: Yes, because they get dirty!

In addition to normal accumulations of dust and dirt found in all structures with air ducts, there are several other factors that can increase the need for regular HVAC system cleaning:

-occupants with allergies or asthma
-cigarette or cigar smoke
-water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system
-renovation or remodeling projects

Some occupants are more sensitive to these contaminants than others. Allergy and asthma sufferers, as well as young children and the elderly tend to be more susceptible to the types of poor indoor air quality that air duct cleaning can help address.

Indoor air quality is one concern that homeowners have when they decide to investigate air duct cleaning. Your heating and cooling system is the lungs of your home. The system takes air in and breathes air out.

Through normal occupation, we generate a great deal of contaminants and air pollutants, such as dander, dust, and chemicals. These contaminants are pulled into the HVAC system and re-circulated 5 to 7 times per day, on average. Over time, this re-circulation causes a build-up of contaminants in the duct work.

While dirty ducts don’t necessarily mean unhealthy air in your home, school or workplace, they may be contributing to larger health effects or harboring contaminants that could cause serious problems for people with respiratory health conditions, autoimmune disorders or some environmental allergies.

Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder and shorten the life of your system. Although filters are used, the heating and cooling system still gets dirty through normal use. When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-effectiveness.

SERVPRO of LBL North has a strong and efficient team of employees to help keep your business looking great and operating efficiently. Contact us today at 270-753-1160.

Winter Weather in Western Kentucky

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

January 22, 2021

SERVPRO of LBL North’s office is in Murray, KY. Our territory includes Calloway County, Marshall County, Lyon County, Trigg County, Caldwell County, and Livingston County. Here in Western Kentucky, we often have milder winters, with less winter weather storms than other locations. However, if winter storms do happen in our area, they are more common in January and February. Below are some tips from the CDC to help you and your family be prepared for Winter Weather Storms…

Winter Storm Checklist…

• Weatherproof your home: Be sure to insulate any water lines that may be along the exterior walls that way it is less likely for your water to freeze. Also, be sure your walls are insulated, doors and windows are caulked and weather striped, and all roof leaks are repaired.
• Inspect chimneys: If you plan to use a fireplace or wood stove for emergency heating, make sure that it has been inspected.
• Install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector: If you will be using a fireplace, wood stove, or kerosene heater; it is recommended to have smoke detectors and battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors installed and tested monthly.
• Create an emergency car kit: It is recommended to avoid traveling, however if you need to travel be sure to have some of these important items in your car… portable charger, extra hats, coats, mittens, and blankets, windshield scraper, flashlight with extra batteries, extra water and snack food, first aid kit, and many others that are listed on the website listed below.

Before the storm hits…

• Listen to weather forecasts and check your emergency supplies!
• Bring your pets indoors, or be sure outside animals are provided adequate shelter, food, and unfrozen water!
• Prepare your vehicle and home!

For more details on winter weather preparedness, please click on the link below! Our team at SERVPRO of LBL North hopes you and your family have a safe winter. However, if you or your family become affected by a winter storm, please contact SERVPRO of LBL North at 270-753-1160, we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

Preparing for a Winter Storm

Not One Storm, But Two!

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

January 8, 2021

Not One Storm, But Two

Hurricane Laura hit landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Cameron, Louisiana on August 27, 2020. The storm caused the deaths of at least 77 people in the U.S. and had caused an estimated $16.1 billion in damages on southwestern Louisiana and southeastern Texas. Laura then turned into a tropical storm later in the day of the 27^th and proceeded to travel across Arkansas causing damage to homes amongst the 3 states. SERVPRO was called to help. SERVPRO franchises from across the country gathered to help the people affected by the hurricane.  When we got the call, our team headed to Lake Charles, LA.

If Hurricane Laura wasn’t enough to devastate Louisiana, they then were hit by another hurricane less than 7 weeks later. Hurricane Delta made landfall on October 9, 2020 and brought further damage and flooding to some homes that had been repaired already and some homes that were still in the process. Those with tarped roofs, had tarps ripped off and homes destroyed yet again. These were the most trying times for the people of Lake Charles and the surrounding areas. Our team stayed in Lake Charles for 2 months helping these individuals. Some jobs had to be redone due to the second hurricane that hit, and we stuck with them throughout the entire mitigation and demolition process. We then prepared these homes for reconstruction and headed back to Tennessee. Our team enjoys getting the call to help and serve!

SERVPRO of LBL North is #HeretoHelp , if you have storm damage our services are available 24/7. Please give us a call at 270-753-1160.

References:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/weather/hurricane-laura-photos-show-huge-damage-to-lake-charles/ar-BB18sFxH

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/oct/10/hurricane-delta-louisiana-creole-lake-charles-damage

MM

Protect Your Home Against Space Heater Fires

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Space heaters can be very convenient, especially if you have one room in your home that never seems to get enough heat from your central HVAC system. Whether you use a space heater regularly or you only pull it out on the coldest winter days, here are four important steps you should always take to prevent a space heater fire.

1. Clean It Thoroughly
Before you use your space heater for the first time, make sure you clean all visible surfaces thoroughly. Dust and other small particles tend to build up on the heater’s surface and could potentially cause the unit to overheat or catch fire if not removed regularly. 

2. Leave Plenty of Empty Space Around Your Heater
Never put your heater up against a blanket, piece of furniture or any other item. If you do, you’re likely to have a burned space heater before long. Space heaters should always have at least three feet of empty space around them, free from furniture, carpets and other items. 

3. Keep Heaters Away From Kids
Don’t operate a space heater in an area where kids frequently play. To reduce the risk of fire if a child does accidentally knock over the heater, make sure you purchase one that has an emergency shut-off mechanism. You should also keep pets away from heaters whenever possible. 

4. Never Leave a Heater Unattended
Never leave a space heater unattended. If you plan to leave the room for a few minutes or a few hours, turn the space heater off beforehand. You can easily turn it back on when you return. 

Following these preventatives steps will minimize your chances of fire damage while warming your home. If you experience a burned space heater or fire damage even after taking these preventative steps, a fire damage restoration professional can help with your smoke cleanup and restoration needs. 

For more information, visit us at https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROLBLNorth.

Fire Extinguisher Tips & Tricks

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Fires and fire damage are common tragedies among homeowners. But, there are ways to lessen the damage. SERVPRO® of LBL North is Here to Help so fires don’t ruin your summer. One is having a proper fire extinguisher --especially, during grilling season. Make sure you follow these rules from our friends at the American Red Cross when it comes to having a good extinguisher:

• Always have more than one working extinguisher in your home.
• Install extinguishers high on the wall and away from any heat sources.
• If an extinguisher doesn’t work on a fire immediately, drop it and get out. Most portable extinguishers empty in 8 seconds.
• Make sure the gauge on your extinguisher is properly charged.

Once you have the right fire extinguisher, always remember PASS:

P- Pull the pin and hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you.

A- Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

S- Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly

S- Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

We hope these tips keep fires and fire damage from your homes. But, if you have fire damage and need SERVPRO, we are always Here to Help. Call SERVPRO® of LBL North at (270) 753-116

Dealing With Water Damage

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of LBL North is an emergency team here, available to you 24 hours a day for storm, fire, mold and water emergencies. For our team, there is no job too large or small. The first step one needs to take when they realize they may have water damage is to take immediate action. Our crew is very experienced and have all witnessed numerous water damage jobs. If there is one word of advice is would be to call as soon as you notice a leak/water damage. Waiting just a couple of hours can increase the severity of the water damages.

SERVPRO of LBL North has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We understand that when something like this happens, you may be overwhelmed with all kinds of emotions. Let us take the stress and worry off your hands. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

SERVPRO of LBL North

(270) 753-1160

National Preparedness Month 2020

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

September 4^th, 2020

National Preparedness Month 2020

September of each year is National Preparedness Month in the United States. SERVPRO promotes this month in an effort to get our friends and local patrons to understand the importance of be prepared for any disaster that could strike. As 2020 has brought upon numerous situations for most, if anything, it has stressed the very importance of being prepared. Natural Disasters could include Flooding, Wildfires, Extreme Heat, a Pandemic, Tornadoes, Earthquakes, Lightning Strike, Blizzards, Hurricanes and much more. While we are not immune to some of these because we live in the Southeast, we are vulnerable to most.

Ready.gov, a federally funded website helps with the planning for when disaster strikes. According to Ready.gov, a standard Disaster Supple Kit includes but is not limited to:

• Water (at least one gallon per day per person for no less than three days)
• Food (again, three-day supply)
• Battery powered or hand-crank radio
• Flashlight
• First Aid Kit
• Extra Batteries
• Dust Mask
• Plastic Sheeting by which to build a shelter
• Duct Tape
• Trash bags and Moist Towelettes
• Manual Can Opener
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup batter

Additional supplies would also include any pet supplies, prescription medicine, insurance information, face coverings (during a pandemic or in the event of a biological disaster), feminine supplies, paper and pencil, and more.

Have a plan. Communicate the plan to family members. Rehearse the plan routinely with them and ensure everyone knows communication plans, phone numbers, evacuation plans, meet-up locations and more. Rehearse these so often that everyone knows them by nature, and in the event the worst happens, you and your family will be #ready!

If your home suffers damage from a storm, give SERVPRO of LBL North a call at (270) 753-1160. We are #HeretoHelp!

JN

Resources:

Recommended Supplies List: https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2020-03/ready_emergency-supply-kit-checklist.pdf

Storm Damage? Now What?

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

September 4^th, 2020

Storm Damage? Now What?

Unfortunately, it does happen, hopefully not often. With the changes in our current weather patterns, it seems heavier rains, stronger winds, and overall severe weather seems to be getting more, well….. severe. So what do you do when severe weather strikes your home? Most severe weather damage is a result of wind, which in turn exposes your home to the subsequent rain which enters the interior of the residence. Here are some recommended steps to take immediately if this occurs:

• CALL SERVPRO of LBL North! While the damage may be minimal “looking” early on, you have no idea where the watered entered, nor where it had traveled before it became noticeable to you. It is best to call the professionals who are available 24 hours a day.
• Gather insurance documents and prepare to have those for when SERVPRO of LBL North arrives. It is not mandatory that you have this information in order to call us, however, it helps us to understand how we can assist as we move through the initial inspection process of your home or business.
• Listen closely to the Crew Chief as he/she explains the process, and this is the time to ask any questions as it pertains to the process. Our Crew Chiefs are happy to explain the drying science, as well as how each piece of equipment functions to help restore your home to its normal level of dryness.
• BE PATIENT! Our job as the premier restoration company in the nation is to ensure your home is dry following storm damage. We know the fans and dehumidifiers may be a touch loud, and you may be tempted to turn them off to catch your favorite television series. Do not alter the equipment left behind by a company. If there is an issue with the equipment, please consult with your Crew Chief.
• Be prepared to contact a construction company to replace the materials removed from the home that were affected by the storm. While SERVPRO of LBL North does have a construction team that can restore your home like new, the mitigation process goes much faster than the replacement process. While a standard water damage mitigation can take up to seven days, the restoring of a home following storm damage can take days or even months depending upon the level of damage. It is best to consult with the Crew Chief, AND the Construction Manager on your options as it relates to the restoring of your home.

SERVPRO of LBL North is #HeretoHelp following any storm damage your residence or business may incur. Our emergency line is open 24 hours a day and we may be reached at (270) 753-1160.

JN

Managing COVID-19

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Your Business and COVID-19

August 14^th, 2020

            These are most certainly unprecedented times. In January, news of COVID-19 was barely a footnote. In February, the US began seeing a slow rise in cases in a small handful of states. The CDC and the federal government began taking steps to control the virus, indicating it would be under control in a few weeks if all steps were followed. Here we are now six-months later, and the virus lingers on with just north of 5-million cases and over 167,000 deaths and climbing by the day.

            With this, however, the US economy continues to try and push forward, implementing the best policies and procedures possible in order to give employees and customers the best opportunity to work or shop in an environment which has been professionally cleaned. But there are some steps you can take as a business owner and/or manager that will help our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program be a supplement to your current cleaning procedures. Here are some elements of consideration when reviewing your current policies and procedures:

• What are some bottleneck areas in your facility where employees and/or customers could get congested? Can a modification of the flow of traffic help mitigate this issue?
• Are tables, counter spaces, kiosks, etc., spaced enough so as to ensure maximum accessibility while keeping close consideration of social distancing.
• Are the current cleaning procedures and products being utilized in line with EPA and CDC guidelines? If not, what needs to be modified by which to align or exceed those guidelines?
• What are other facilities similar to yours doing?

SERVPRO of LBL North has led the way in this area for meeting with business owners, bank managers, and public officials in our area to discuss some of the best ways to combat this ever evolving situation. Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is a great addition to any organization, as it comes with the exchange of information and consultation as to how to best navigate these times, along with the confidence that once our team leaves your facility, your environment has been cleaned by the best in the business.

            For more information, please refer to the CDC website for additional guidance, and the EPA for a list of approved products available by which to effectively limit exposure to COVID-19.

JN

Gutters Matter

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

Gutters Matter

August 5^th, 2020

Several weeks back our area experienced a significant amount of rainfall which brought the wettest on record according to the National Weather Service. In receiving this significant amount of rainfall, aside from the flooding (water damage) that comes as a result of rising rivers or other bodies of water, we began also receiving calls from customers that had unexplained mold growing on their ceilings as well as outside walls on their homes or businesses. Since one of the key factors in properly mitigating a water damage is identifying the source, naturally we began with a roof inspection, which in every case to the date of this blog posting, has produced no findings which would indicate a raised nail, missing screw, or shingle tab is the culprit. Following a flood of questions to the homeowner, which generally reveal no prior history of brown stains or leaks from the ceiling or walls, some may not know to look at or inspect the gutter system.

Gutters play a significant role in a number of things which protect the home. They keep water from running directly off of a roof and onto a deck, into your flower bed, and through the proper design/installation/operation of the gutter system, also diverts water away from the foundation of the home. According to our friends over at Erie Insurance, failing to annually inspect your gutter system can result in Foundation Problems, Broken Gutters, Wall and Ceiling Damage, a Wet Basement, and Insect Infestations.

Our customers were all found to have the same issue, easily avoidable clogged gutters which permitted the gutter system to become backfilled with water, further permitting that water to intrude into the home. Following a brief inspection of the gutters, debris was found in the downspouts, in some cases with plants growing out of them, which prevented the water from properly draining.

As their article properly suggests, gutter damage is expensive to mitigate, but inexpensive and easy to prevent. Take the proper precaution to inspect your gutters, ensuring you have the proper tools, ladder, and equipment to mitigate any issues you find. Taking the time to do this will allow you to also better inspect your homes roof for any damage from the previous season, as well as other areas you may need to focus on moving forward.

If your home has suffered water damage, call SERVPRO of LBL North to assist you in mitigating this damage! We are always happy to help!

JN

References:

Metz, J. (2018, October 17). 5 Common problems caused by clogged gutters. Retrieved from Erie Insurance: https://www.erieinsurance.com/blog/clean-gutters

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information. (2020, August 5th). National Climate Report - June 2020. Retrieved from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/sotc/national/202006

Trust the Service Professionals

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? Trust the Service Professionals 

June 26^th, 2020 

It never fails. You come home from work, it has been a long day, and just when you think it would not get any worse, you open the door into your home and water trickles down over your feet. That washer you placed on a delayed start before you left for work kicked on and during the operation a hose or fitting failed resulting in water flooding your laundry room……….. which migrated into the hallway………which further expanded into your bedroom and living room. Your cat is standing on the back of the couch looking at you for an explanation because her food bowl has floated off down the hallway and well, cats don't swim. She's hungry!

You find yourself looking at a dozen scenarios, none of which are pleasant. Maybe this is your first water loss, or your first ever insurance claim on a home. Then come the questions:

Who do I call because it’s after hours and everyone is closed?

What does my insurance policy cover?

Will my stuff be able to be saved?

Is my house a total loss?

Will we be able to live here while the repairs are being made?

WHAT DO I DO?

The answer is too easy! Call 1-800-SERVPRO or visit our website at www.SERVPROLBLNorth.com and simply Request Help ONLINE by finding the “Get Help” section on the right side of our website. You will receive contact from a SERVPRO professional regarding your emergency within one hour, and within four hours you will have a mitigation team on site to begin evaluating and beginning the process to restore your home. Because we are the #1 Fire, Water and Restoration Company in the nation, we are generally able to immediately begin working on your emergency. Our team of professionals will evaluate your loss, and step by step go over with you the elements of the restoration process as well as provide you with an understanding of what you can expect throughout. We understand this can be a very difficult and stressful time in your life, and our team will work to walk you through everything. Rest assured, our #1 priority is you, and getting everything back “Like it never even happened.” We're also pet friendly! 

JN

Why SERVPRO? Because We're Truly "Here to Help"

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

June 17^th, 2020

     When I was made aware of SERVPRO and the opportunity to serve a local franchise as their Sales and Marketing Manager, the first thing I did (as many do, or should do) is conduct some brief research on the organization. I had observed the bright green trucks buzzing around in the community, and I recognized the orange house as well as the name SERVPRO. As someone on the outside of the organization who had never utilized them before, I was not aware of what exactly the company did.

     What I saw was a Mission Statement and Vision which was very customer centric, which, any company that provides a service should be. Where the line between a standard company and service versus an exceptional company and service differs, is the ownership in the language provided in the Mission and/or Vision of the organization. In other words, the language is more than just words on piece of paper, it is lived and/or practiced from the top down.

     Shortly after accepting the position and the completion of the training program, it was time to hit the road and begin introducing myself to the communities in which our franchise services. Just as I was getting to know our customers and agents by name, COVID-19 set in, and as it has for anyone who relies on a face to face continuous relationship by which to keep the wheels turning, this disrupted that routine, forcing all of us in the SERVPRO organization from the top down to adapt and evolve.

     From a marketing standpoint we are taught in college to look for ways to capitalize on an opportunity. Naturally for a professional cleaning organization, the knee jerk reaction to a viral pandemic is to recognize that the services we provide are a (not necessarily THE) solution to the problem. Naturally, a marketer would understand and see that through this, the organization has the potential to not only be a solution to a problem, but also see an uptick in cleaning service opportunities.

     During a sales forum weeks into the pandemic as shutdowns began to increase across the nation, the question was raised as to why there were no television advertisements communicating the message that SERVPRO has a potential solution to the question of disinfecting facilities. The response given was simple, but strong. As the national leader in cleaning and restoration, there is an ethical responsibility to recognize the depth and severity of the national crisis. Instead of flooding the airwaves with advertisements which could be viewed by many as a means to capitalize on what continues to be a tragic and uncertain time in our nation’s history, SERVPRO turned to its dedicated team of marketing professionals to approach their respective areas based on the needs of the community, and from a sense of personal compassion. In other words, there is no better way to say “We’re Here to Help”, than to do it in person, from a position of genuine care.

     SERVPRO’s Mission Statement reads “To develop a team of quality people who focus on excellent service, fairness, and mutual respect.” From this, and a position of recognizing the uncertainty many families and businesses in our community are facing, we can assess each situation and request for help on an individual basis, and the sense of compassion that comes along with this, can only be done by living up to the final three factors of excellent service, fairness, and mutual respect.

     SERVPRO of LBL North understands that each of our customers are trying to balance the safety of both their employees and their customers, and the ability to lend a hand during a time of need is a genuine gift. Our organization has been able to mobilize crews on a moment’s notice when the call comes in that assistance is needed to deep clean and/or disinfect a facility to help minimize the chances that members of our community may have in contracting the virus. When our production teams have been stretched thin with other projects, our sales and marketing team as well as our office staff have stepped up to ensure we are able to help our community. It isn’t necessarily enough to say “we’re all in this together”, but SERVPRO is most certainly “Here to Help”.

John Norwood

Sales and Marketing Manager

SERVPRO of LBL North

Spring Severe Weather 2020 Awareness

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Prepare for Spring Severe Weather

April 29^th, 2020

    With the unusually warm weather upon us, and the heavy amount of rain that has fallen over the course of the Winter, it is imperative to understand the implications this combination of weather events could potentially bring, mainly severe weather and flooding.

    Severe Weather in and of itself can consist of high winds, torrential rains, tornadoes and flooding. The part most concerning is flooding. According to the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) flooding is the most common natural disaster. While flooding from a broken pipe, faulty dishwasher, or other household appliance presents clean water into the home, water from a flood poses significant concern when it comes to what’s “in” the water.

    The Center’s for Disease Control (CDC) explains that water from a flood, or outside source could potentially contain disease, chemicals, bacteria, human waste and other contaminants that could bring about long-term health risks if exposed to for extended lengths of time. When your home is exposed to outside flood water, it is imperative that you contact SERVPRO of LBL North immediately so that we can minimize the effects of this damage. Our offices can be reached at (270) 753-1160.

JN

References:

Brooks, K. (2020, March 16th). SERVPRO encourages property owners to prepare now for severe spring weather. Retrieved from Global Newswire: https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2020/03/16/2001201/0/en/SERVPRO-Encourages-Property-Owners-to-Prepare-Now-for-Severe-Spring-Weather.html

Businesses Adapting to Work at Home Models

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

Business Adaptations Post COVID-19

April 27^th, 2019

     From every crisis in history, there are lessons to be learned, and adaptions that can be implemented on just about every level. For businesses (large and small) this will likely result in a shift in the operational business model for many. The emergence of COVID-19 has permitted some businesses to see just how well they can operate, even if only for a short period of time, with their employees working remotely.

     At SERVPRO, one of the biggest concern’s businesses have following a major loss, is how long the operation will need to be shut down in order to mitigate the issue. Granted working from home is not conducive for retail outlets and restaurants, but for offices which do not provide a physical product, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown that while the loss is being mitigated, that operations may continue, albeit from remote locations.

     Once a business suffers a loss, the time in which SERVPRO needs to get in, adequately assess the loss, and mitigate it, is often dictated by when the company will need to reopen, close down, etc. It is not always as simple as shutting the doors, however, now with what we have taken away from the COVID-19 pandemic, it could provide quicker response times by SERVPRO, and a smooth temporary transition on the part of the business while SERVPRO mitigates the issue.

JN

References:

Hern, A. (2020, March 13th). The Guardian. Retrieved from Covid-19 could cause permanent shift towards home working: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2020/mar/13/covid-19-could-cause-permanent-shift-towards-home-working

SERVPRO Continues to Adapt

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Continues to Adapt

April 27^th, 2020

    As of the date of this blog posting, the world continues to reel from the COVID-19 pandemic that has taken center stage in just about every facet of American life. There is no element of our nation that remains untouched by this virus, including the many SERVPRO franchises scattered throughout the nation. One thing that is for certain as Forbes magazine puts it, businesses will fail, and new businesses will emerge. Those that survive, will have shown the ability to adapt to change, rather than take a stalled approach, or a “wait and see” tactic.

    SERVPRO quite simply, adjusts. Going from operations heavy on fire and water mitigation to a sudden/rapid shift to biohazard cleaning has been the focus of the company for the past two months. As the new hashtag adapted by SERVPRO, and other companies as well, we stand by our Vision Statement, in that we strive “to be the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world”.

    When the Nashville flood hit, SERVPRO responded. When hurricanes ravaged the Gulf Coast and Eastern seaboards, SERVPRO responded. Now, with COVID-19 ravaging our nation, SERVPRO has again answered the call.

    Whether big or small, SERVPRO of LBL North is here to help! It is imperative that all businesses take a hard look at the preventative measures they have in place to minimize as much as possible the infection of its workers as the State of Tennessee begins its pursuit towards some form of normalcy again. SERVPRO of LBL North stands ready to help with this. Give us a call at (270) 753-1160 to discuss our preventative cleaning measures with you and your staff.

JN

References:

SERVPRO Industries, Inc. (2020, April 27). Our mission, vision, purpose, values, & long term goals. Retrieved from SERVPRO Industries, Inc.: https://www.SERVPRO.com/our_mission

Zukis, B. (2020, March 30). Forbes Magazine. Retrieved from A ceo cheatsheet for business strategy after covid-19: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bobzukis/2020/03/30/a-ceo-cheatsheet-for-business-strategy-after-covid-19/#6b70db68330c

SERVPRO Pet of the Week

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

March 21, 2020

SERVPRO of LBL North Pet of the Week

Do you want your pet featured on our Facebook page, as the SERVPRO pet of the week? Make sure you like our Facebook page and submit your pet photos and fun facts to us. You can submit this information via Facebook messenger or email mmillison@lblsouth.com. We have included a form below for you to get an idea of what fun facts to send. Pets will be selected at random and posted each Friday.

Owners Name (optional):__________________________

Pets Name:__________________________________

Pets Nickname(s):_____________________________

Breed:__________________________________

Age:__________

Favorite Treat(s):________________________________

Favorite Toy(s):__________________________________

Favorite Activities:________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

Fun Facts/Anything you want shared:

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please email the photo and information to mmillison@lblsouth.com , or message it via our SERVPRO of LBL Facebook Page.

THANK YOU!!

How to Clean and Disinfect Your Home

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Disinfecting Your Home

April, 20^th, 2020 

What Disinfectant to Use and How to Use It?

With the ongoing spread of COVID-19, the issue has caused concern for the manner in which Americans behave in terms of cleanliness. How long do we wash our hands? Do we use warm water and soap, or does cold water have the same effect? Is Lysol better than a multipurpose cleaner? What you may be surprised to know is that many are using the right disinfectant incorrectly. Many of us simply take Lysol for instance, spray a surface and immediately wipe it dry. This is entirely the wrong way to use the disinfectant. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Center’s for Disease Control (CDC), the dwell time in which a chemical (Lysol for instance) ranges from thirty seconds, to upwards of ten minutes depending upon the bacteria or virus you are looking to minimize exposure to. That list of household disinfectants is available by clicking HERE. If the link does not work, refer to the full reference listed at the conclusion of this blog.

Where do I need to Focus?

According to the CDC, high touch areas in the home are of primary concern when it comes to routine cleaning/disinfecting. High touch areas include but are not limited to; tables, doorknobs, light switches, toilets/handles, desks, phones, keyboards, faucets, sinks, etc. Be careful when cleaning soft surfaces and electronics. Make sure to consult the instructions on the product prior to using it on each different type of surface, and consulting with the EPA’s Registered Household Disinfectant Guide to see how long the disinfectant should remain on the surface before wiping it dry.

Always make sure to use proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when using household or other chemical disinfectants. Generally, standard rubber gloves will be sufficient, and it is always recommended to wash your hands in warm soapy water for no less than 20 seconds once cleaning has been concluded and cleaning chemicals have been properly stored away from the reach of young children. You can view other cleaning recommendations by visiting HERE. If the link does not work, you can review the full link provided in the list of references below.

 References:

Center's for Disease Control (CDC). (2020, April 20). Cleaning And Disinfecting Your Home. Retrieved from Center's for Disease Control : https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/disinfecting-your-home.html

United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2020, April 20th). List N: Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-CoV-2. Retrieved from United States Environmental Protection Agency: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2

When Fire Strikes

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

March 6th, 2020

Fire!! What to Do Next??

When disaster strikes, and your home is involved in a fire, your mind is frantic, and you have no idea what the next step is. You never pictured this would happen and you probably never thought what happens now. Below we have provided some of those next steps for you to take once your home has been involved in a fire.

1. First and foremost, safety is the most important. Find a safe place for your family and pets to stay. This should be a place that can help ease your mind and give you a place to think about what you need to do next. If you don’t have a family member or friend to stay with, check with a local disaster relief program like the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army as they can often provide you with free temporary housing. Accomplishing this one minor goal can help feel like you have some control of the situation.
2. Your next step should be to contact your insurance agent. The faster you contact your insurance agent; the faster things can begin whether it is repairs or looking for a new home. They also may be able to help you with your expenses due to losses in the fire. Insurance companies can also help you find a cleaning or mitigation/restoration service.
3. Contact the Police. To ensure the safety of your home, the windows and doors should be boarded up to ensure the building and belongings are left alone.
4. Plan out finances. Ensure you are prepared to pay your bills and it may even be best to suspend your cable and internet bills since you will not be in your home for a while. Some insurance companies will assist with these payments during this time.
5. Get a list of damaged items and be sure to report them to your insurance agent, also make sure you report all important documents that were loss and need to be replaced. These should be of high priority.
6. Before reentering your home, make sure it is reported to be safe by a fire marshal. Also, make sure you have spoken with your insurance agent to be sure that it does not void any of your policy if you are to enter your home. Always check with your agent before doing anything.
7. Finally, you may feel like it is your responsibility to go into the home and start packing up and collecting undamaged items. This can take weeks and can take away from the important things that are of higher priority. At SERVPRO we can pack up all belongings, clean them, and store them with us, until we have completed all our steps to ensure it looks "Like it never even happened." Then we will return all your cleaned items back to where they were. This process can be long and drawn out but with our elite team of professionals we are able to complete these tasks with ease. We also can assist with communication between insurance agents/adjusters to help put homeowners at ease.

If you have any questions check out the link below or if you or someone you know is in the process of going through any of these tasks and need help, feel free to call SERVPRO of LBL (731) 642-1284 and we will be happy to assist you during this difficult time.

Resources:

8 Things to Do After a Fire

Living With Mold is Simple, Don't

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

February 7^th, 2020

Living with Mold is Simple……. Don’t

Suppose your house suffered some wind damage recently due to the high winds that came through back in October (2019). You patched the roof with plans to “fix it yourself” when the seasons change and the temps warm up. A temporary tarp or other covering it currently being utilized to minimize further water from leaking into your house. You assume everything will be fine, and come Spring, one weekend you and perhaps some friends and family will simply remove the temporary covering and patch the roof. Everything is then good to go…..right? Not exactly.

See the entire time you have had the temporary patch on the house, water could have leaked in. Not to mention, what happened to all the water that leaked in before? Did you simply mop up what you could find, spray a little Kilz or similar product on the roof in order to remove the visible reminder of your misfortune? Well, when the season warms, and your attic space heats up, mold will begin to form, if it hasn’t already.

The type of mold that forms will cause problems, but what those problems are is hard to tell. Every type of mold runs the potential to cause health issues. As the mold grows, spores are released into the air, eventually getting into your HVAC lines and negatively affecting the air quality in your home. Since mold requires moisture to grow, the moisture it absorbs also absorbs into the wood, potentially causing wood rot. It should be noted that mold itself does not rot wood, but the moisture it attracts does. This is why it is very important to contact SERVPRO if you suffered water damage from any type of storm event in the past.

According to FEMA, using the residents of Hurricane IRENE as an example, once you see you have water damage, you should do everything you can to dry out immediately. If you do not have the proper tools and resources to do it, SERVPRO of LBL North does, and will respond to your call within four hours or less with the proper drying equipment. If you see mold, the general rule of thumb is DON’T DISTURB IT! Contact SERVPRO of LBL North and let us examine the mold, determine the type, and safely remove it from your home. Improperly disturbing/removing mold from your home could give it more moisture/room to grow. It is best to let professionals get rid of it the moment it is detected.

RESOURCE

Federal Emergency Management Agency. (2011, September 18th). Be safe, don't stay in a home infested with mold or mildew. Retrieved from Federal Emergency Management Association: https://www.fema.gov/news-release/2011/09/18/be-safe-dont-stay-home-infested-mold-or-mildew

Getting an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

February 7^th, 2020

It happens more than you think, but is one of the most seldom discussed subjects at meetings and/or training sessions. What happens when a main water line bursts inside the building, or, when someone detects the smell of gas in the air while the building is being heated? When severe weather strikes, do your managers know where to go, and where to send your customers? What happens when a tornado, hurricane, or flood impacts your business directly? Communication is the key of course, but without the proper plan, there is nothing to communicate on a consistent level.

An Emergency Ready Profile is what separates guessing from an actual plan of attack should something detrimental happen to your business. Here at SERVPRO of LBL North, we have an entire team of professionals who, upon request, will come to your business, and complete your Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for you. We will ask you some questions in reference to points of contact, service providers, etc., and then we will take care of filling in the remainder of the form. Once completed, you will be provided a copy to share with your managers, and insurance providers, and we will keep a copy as well. In the rare event disaster does strike, you will be prepared, and SERVPRO of LBL North will already know how to respond.

To get your ERP completed, please contact our office at (731) 642-1284 for more information and to schedule a visit by our Sales and Marketing Manager, or a Sales and Marketing Representative.

Residential Fire Readiness

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

February 7^th, 2020

Residential Fire Readiness

Ever wonder what the chances of your home catching fire actually are? Well, according to the United States Fire Administration, it depends on how well you are at cooking! Yes, we said cooking. Accord to the USFA, 51.6% of residential fires come from cooking. Generally, this is a grease fire, and once a flame emits from grease running down onto an eye on the stove, someone incorrectly tries to put it out with water. The other causes are Heating (9.1%), Unintentional/Carelessness (7.1) and Electrical 6.5%. So, while there are other reasons, most fires do begin in the kitchen. Let’s discuss a few tips in the event the bacon decides to catch fire one Saturday morning while you are cooking breakfast.

1. Get everyone out of the house (remember, have everyone assemble at a rally point).
2. Contact 9-1-1
3. If the fire is contained to the pan/pot, cover the container with a lid (not a plastic lid).
4. If possible, shut off the heat source. This will not immediately put an end to the flame, but it will help in the continued fueling of heat from the source. You will still have to contend with the fire already started.
5. If small enough, pour generous amounts of salt and/or baking soda on the flames.
6. If available, use a Class B fire extinguisher. These are readily available for purchase at any local Lowe’s, Walmart or other home store.
7. DO NOT use water on an oil-based fire. This will cause the oil to splatter, expanding the flames rapidly which will likely result in your home being consumed in flames before the emergency responders can arrive.

It is also recommended that you do not place fire extinguishers in the kitchen, but rather, just outside the kitchen. In the event your kitchen catches fire, you will need to access the extinguisher, and if your kitchen is engulfed in flames, it could render getting to the extinguisher next to impossible. Do what you can with what you have, but most certainly do not put yourself or others in harms way. You and your family’s safety are the most crucial element to dealing with a fire. Educate everyone in the home on the plan in the event a fire breaks out. Make sure they know how to safely exit the home, what to do and not to do, and where to meet up once safely outside of the home. Everyone, down to the youngest child, should be familiar with it.

Should you experience fire damage, contact SERVPRO of LBL North to come inspect the residence and begin work on restoring it “Like it never even happened.”

RESOURCES:

United States Fire Administration

How to Put Out a Grease Fire

Are You Sure the Toilet Isn't Leaking?

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

February 7^th, 2020

Are You Sure the Toilet Isn’t Leaking?

Do you see stains around the base of your toilet? Notice standing water or damaged tile? How about stains on the ceiling below where your toilet is located (multi-level home)? These can all be indications of a leaking toilet seal. A toilet seal is what connects the toilet to the main drain waste pipe flange in the floor. Typically, you find that if your toilet is rocking, that means that the seal is faulty and needs replaced. However, even if it is not rocking you still may find the toilet seal to have been installed incorrectly, possibly not aligned correctly, or not installed at all.

How to Replace Leaking Toilet Seal?

1. TURN off the water at the shutoff valve. (typically located behind the toilet or possibly in the basement or crawlspace)
2. REMOVE the toilet lid, hold the handle down, and drain all the water out of the toilet. You will also need to remove the water from the supply tank as well (using a sponge or cup may be helpful to get all the water out).
3. DISCONNECT the water-supply tube. This is done by removing the compression nuts off the shutoff value.
4. REMOVE the toilet by gently rocking back and forth to break off the pre-existing seal. (Use a putty knife to remove the old seal)
5. CHECK the condition of the flange that holds the seal to ensure there are no cracks or broken pieces. (If so, this part will also need replaced)
6. CENTER the new seal within the closest flange
7. CONNECT the water-supply tube to the fill-valve shank that is located on the bottom of the toilet tank
8. PRESS down on the toilet to compress the seal and tighten the bolts (do not over tighten)
9. TRIM the tops of bolts, tighten bolts, and replace caps
10. CONNECT the supply tube to the shutoff valve, open the valve, flush the toilet
11. INSPECT for any leaks

A leaking toilet can seem like a minor issue, but if left unrepaired can turn into a large, costly issue. If the leak is caught in a timely manner, and repaired the homeowner is looking at low costs, and about an hours’ worth of work. However, if left alone to continue to leak, it can cause major damage to the sub-floor of the house or even the walls. Once the floor begins to rot, it continues to spread and before anyone is aware of it, it can destroy an entire bathroom floor, causing showers, cabinets, sinks, and such to have to be removed in order to fix the damaged floor. This then turns into hours of restoration work, and costly materials.

For more information relating to the inspection of, removal or installation of a toilet gasket, please click on the link provided below. If you find that you do in fact have water damage as a result of a leaky/faulty gasket, please contact SERVPRO of LBL North at (270) 753-1160.

Resources:

Easy Fix for a Leaky Toilet

Making a Plan

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

One of the biggest mistakes any family can make is failing to anticipate disaster striking home. Home fires, floods, lightning strikes, earthquakes, tornadoes, etc., all can happen and often with very little warning. SERVPRO of LBL North is taking the initiative in its region to ensure the communities it serves are aware of the importance of planning properly. Taking some tips from Ready.gov, we would like to share some of those tips to our SERVPRO community.

1. Receiving Warnings: In the present day, most people have at minimum one smartphone in the home. However, if these smartphones are on silent, vibrate, or are powered down, how else will you receive notice of danger, be it weather or otherwise. Do you have carbon monoxide or smoke detectors in the home? Are the batteries changed routinely? If not, it may be worth your while to either install these devices, or set up a schedule to begin replacing these batteries at the minimum twice annually.
2. Shelter Plan: In the event your home suffers a disaster, which makes living in it temporarily impossible, or dangerous to your health, where will you go? In some cases, your insurance policy may contain provisions which will cover temporary lodging in a local hotel. Perhaps you could make emergency arrangements with a family member, or a neighbor. A shelter plan absolutely MUST be part of your contingency, and all members of the household should know this plan.
3. Where to Go: In the event of a fire, earthquake, tornado strike, etc., where your home is affected while you and your loved ones are in it, a plan should be made as to where to assemble should everyone need to quickly evacuate the home. Perhaps at the end of the driveway, the mailbox, the neighbors house. These are just some examples of where families could agree to meet in the rare event of a disaster strike. Make sure everyone knows the route to get to the assembly point, and that it is one that is familiar to all members of the household.
4. Communication Plan: In this day and age where families are constantly on the go, there is a chance that when disaster strikes some members of the household may not be home. Consider a communication plan that everyone agrees on, and that everyone is aware of that resides within the home. It is also important that immediate family members outside of the home, or neighbors should be included on this emergency plan. In the event an emergency strikes the home, the communication plan should be implemented immediately, with detailed instructions provided as to the 1) the type of disaster, 2) where the family will stay in the event the residence is uninhabitable or a danger to enter, 3) any additional instructions necessary.

These emergency plans should be communicated and discussed with all members of the family, even the little ones, especially since a fire or other emergency could leave the little ones separated from the rest of the family during the event. Find creative ways to share fire safety, earthquake and other natural disaster drills with the little ones and rehearse those on a routine basis. More information can be found by visiting the resources provided below.

Lastly, allow SERVPRO of LBL North to come out and provide to you a free Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP) which we will keep on file in the event disaster strikes your home. This will enable the insurance company, SERVPRO, and other entities that will respond to the scene to quickly assess the important components, and begin to restore your home back “Like it never even happened.”

Resources:

Department of Homeland Security Ready.gov Website

Department of Homeland Security Ready Kids Website

Customer Service and the SERVPRO of LBL North Promise

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

February 5th, 2020

Customer Satisfaction and the SERVPRO Promise

Unfortunately, we live in a day and time where convenience seems to trump good old-fashioned customer service. With most organizations, you can either have one, or the other. You can have quick service, get the job done, but it comes with an often times rude, or other individual with less than a desirable personality. However, having both convenience and high-quality customer service is not necessarily a thing of the past. At SERVPRO of LBL North, we embody and strive for providing both of these key elements.

When we arrive at your residence or business, we want to see the issue from your perspective. How will this incident affect you from the time we begin the drying or restoration process to the time we conduct our final clean up. To us, you are not just another customer. We love meeting new people, learning a little about you, and providing you with such a good quality service that we become your “go-to” anytime disaster strikes your home.

In the end, we understand that a happy customer is our greatest asset. If our service does not meet 5-Star expectations, give us the opportunity to make it right. SERVPRO of LBL North is here for you in your time of need. Call our office at (270) 753-1160 and let us know how we can better serve you!

Is Your Business Prepared for a Disaster

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

February 4th, 2020

Is Your Business Prepared for Disaster

Running a business, be it a small locally owned business, or large corporate operation, being prepared in the event an unexpected event happens is crucial to making sure whatever situation arises, the right help is identified and the problem is resolved as fast as possible. In fact, over 50% of businesses close down completely following a major disaster simply because no plan or approach was composed leading up to said disaster.

SERVPRO of LBL North can help with this. Our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) will help you with putting this plan together. The best part is, we do it for you. All you need to do is provide us with some vital information, and we go to work putting together your profile which once provided, will give crucial details to law enforcement, emergency responders, SERVPRO and other entities which will come to your rescue in the event of a disaster. For example, our ERP includes some of the following information and more:

• Points of Contact (POC) for your organization
• Locations of all water, electric and gas shut offs (including photos of each element)
• A comprehensive list of service providers (water, gas, electric, etc.)
• A detailed chain of command so as to authorize SERVPRO of LBL North to get started as soon as possible following an emergency
• …….Much More

ERP’s can also be put together for a residence as well. If you would like an ERP put together for your home or business, contact our office at (731) 642-1284 to schedule a visit to your location.

Resources

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile

Black History Month: Recognizing Gen. Colin Powell

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

Gen. Colin Powell Photo Credit: United States Joint Chiefs of Staff

February 4^th, 2020

Black History Month

SERVPRO of LBL South Recognizes United States Army Gen. Colin Powell (ret)

   In honor of Black History Month, SERVPRO of LB North would like to recognize retired Gen. Colin Powell. Gen. Powell was born from Jamaican immigrants on April 5^th of 1937 in Harlem, New York. At the young age of 16, Powell entered into the City College of New York where he joined the Army Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC), where he attained the highest rank any student in the program can achieve.

    Following his completion of college, Gen. Powell quickly climbed the ranks in the US Army by completing various training in US Army Airborne School, Ranger School, then joined the 3d Armored Division in Germany. During his time in the military, which included a stint in the Vietnam conflict, Powell advised a southern Vietnamese infantry battalion. It was during this tour that Powell was injured, thus enabling him to receive the Purple Heart.

   In 1979, after years of active duty commission, Powell was promoted to Brigadier General, and assigned work under the Office of the Secretary of Defense (SECDEF). Not long after this assignment. Gen. Powell was called upon by then President Ronald Reagan to serve as the Deputy National Security Advisor under Frank Carlucci. When Carlucci became the Secretary of Defense, Powell was already in line to succeed him.

   Over the years, Powell served the nation in various roles, working with leaders from both political parties on issues such as Leadership, National Security, and much more. His was so successful in fact, that upon his retirement, was awarded his second Presidential Medal of Freedom. Queen Elizabeth II also made him an Honorary Knight of the Bath. Since his retirement from public service, Powell has spent his time publishing books, and public speaking, using his life experiences as a foundation to encourage growth in various areas. Powell has continued to serve the nation through his limitless advice on Leadership, and how to overcome obstacles using a common sense approach. He is living proof that hard work and determination has no limits, in so long as one is willing to keep an eye trained on the end objective.

“Leadership is solving problems. The day soldiers stop bringing you their problems is the day you have stopped leading them!” – Gen. Colin Powell

Resources:

Joint Chiefs of Staff. 2020. Colin Lither Powell. Febriary 04. Accessed February 04, 2020. https://www.jcs.mil/About/The-Joint-Staff/Chairman/General-Colin-Luther-Powell/.

The Military Leader. n.d. 11 Priceless Colin Powell Quotes. Accessed February 04, 2020. https://www.themilitaryleader.com/priceless-colin-powell/.

Mobile Homes and Moisture Issues

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

February 5^th, 2020

Mobile Homes and Moisture Issues

According to an article published in 2009, which uses a United States Census Report, more than 56% of the mobile homes in the nation are located in the southern states. Tie this with the abundance of moisture in the ground, therein arises many opportunities for mold to form in and around the mobile home. Let’s take a moment to understand the dynamics which set the stage for mold growth in mobile homes, then discuss how you can potentially minimize/prevent unnecessary mold growth in your home. 

Mobile homes by design (recent ones manufactured anytime after 2000) secure the insulation, water lines, electric lines, and HVAC ducts installed underneath the flooring of the home with a heavy duty plastic (vapor barrier). This plastic lining is there to protect the underside of the home, especially the wood flooring, from vapor rising up from the moist ground beneath it. In the South, as noted above, we have an abundance of both moisture in the ground, which results in the excessive humidity levels we experience. This plastic vapor barrier pre-installed on your home, also has a negative side effect, in that it hides slow leaks which may arise from poor fabrication or wear and tear. These leaks absorb first into the insulation, then begin to trickle down, pooling in a low spot it finds within the vapor barrier. During this course of time, humidity levels trapped between the vapor barrier and the floor sets the perfect stage for mold growth throughout the underside of your home. The spores from this growth eventually finds its way into your home as it grows up through the pores in the flooring and walls.  

Preventative Measures You Can Take and What to Report to SERVPRO of LBL North

• Routinely check under your home. Inspect the vapor barrier for sagging spots, which could lead to a slow leak
• Identify why moisture has accumulated at that spot and where it originated from
• Once the source has been identified and the leak eliminated, what path did the water take from the source to the location in which you found it

It is important that you inspect the vapor barrier of your home at least twice a year. Any vapor barrier that is altered (purposefully or unintentional), should be replaced/repaired as soon as possible so as to stop outside humidity levels from permitting mold to grown on all porous materials under the home. Mold can potentially negatively affect your air quality, and the integrity of your home. Call SERVPRO of LBL North anytime you detect moisture or mold in your home at (270) 753-1160.

References:

Manufactured Housing Research Alliance. 2000. "Moisture problems in manufactured homes; understanding their causes and finding solutions." United States Department of Housing and Urban Development . Accessed February 04, 2020. https://www.huduser.gov/portal/publications/moisture.pdf.

Yousef, Hibah. 2009. Most mobile homes are in the south- Census. September 23rd. Accessed February 04, 2020. https://money.cnn.com/2009/09/22/real_estate/mobile_homes/index.htm.

Storm Preparedness

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

January 11, 2022

Storm Preparedness

Tennesseans are beginning to enter into the Spring storm season. According to the Weather Channel, the percentage of severe weather which includes tornadic weather begins to rapidly increase in February. Given the warmer Winter season we have underwent thus far, it is expected to see an increase in severe weather earlier in the year. Severe weather could include excessive rain/floods, straight line winds, hail, and of course, tornadoes. Are you and your family prepared? Here are a few helpful tips from the National Weather Service:

• BE READY – If you do not have a weather radio in the home, these can be purchased for a reasonable cost at just about any local convenience store or online. It needs to be NOAA certified, and you will need to identify which specific band/frequency to set it to in the event it does not set itself automatically. You can find those HERE, and then identify the frequency for your area, then set your radio accordingly. Make sure the weather radio can both plug in, and operate on some other form of alternative source (batteries, solar, or crank).
• SIGN UP FOR NOTIFICATIONS: Various apps on your Android or Apple phone can alert you to disaster, and guide you once the disaster has concluded. Make sure to have some means of reaching the outside world in the event disaster strikes.
• COMMUNICATION PLAN: In the event you must evacuate your home, or disaster strikes when the family is separated, have a plan for notifying members who reside in the home, as well as other members of concern (immediate family, co-workers, etc.)
• REHEARSE THE PLAN: Run through the communication plan, and overall disaster plan routinely with all members of the household. The plan of action should be second nature in the rare event emergency strikes.
• HELP WHERE HELP IS NEEDED: Once you have secured your home and family, check with neighbors to see if help is needed. Contact emergency services if help is required.

Other helpful tips include making sure your insurance documents, identification, credit card/banking information is all saved digitally in the event your home is destroyed. The more prepared you are, the faster the claims adjuster can work with you to repair/rebuild your home.

SERVPRO of LBL North is an expert in helping make these preparations. Contact the office at (270) 753-1160 and ask to meet with a SERVPRO representative at your home or business to begin building your Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP).

Resources for Additional Information:

National Weather Service Safety Tips

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Radio Frequency Finder

Holiday Fires

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

Residential fires during the holiday season are more frequent, more costly, and more deadly than at any other time of the year. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) reports more than double the number of open-flame fires on Christmas Day than on an average day, and about twice as many on New Year’s Day. And when those fires occur, they do more damage: Property loss during a holiday fire is 34% greater than in an average fire, and the number of fatalities per thousand fires is nearly 70% higher. When the source of the fire is a highly flammable Christmas tree, the toll in property and lives is even greater.

Keep your household from becoming a holiday fire statistic!

A few others things that cause holiday fires:

Cooking

Decorative Lights

Kids Playing with Matches

Fireplaces

Please be cautious in all situations, keep a fire extinguisher handy, carbon monoxide and smoke detectors up to date. 

What To Do About Freezing Pipes

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

To keep pipes from freezing on an outside wall:

1. Let hot and cold water trickle or drip at night from a faucet.

2. Open cabinet doors to allow more heat to get to un-insulated pipes under a sink or near an outer wall.

3. Make sure heat is left on and set no lower than 55 degrees.

4. If you plan to be away: (1) Have someone check your house daily to make sure the heat is still on to prevent freezing, or (2) drain and shut off the water system (except indoor sprinkler systems).

If Pipes Freeze:

1. Make sure you and your family knows how to shut off the water, in case pipes burst.

2. NEVER try to thaw a pipe with an open flame or torch. Use a hair dryer instead.

3. Always be careful of the potential for electric shock in and around standing water.

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial carpet cleaning is a job that is very competitive in today's society. Whether you are needing your carpet cleaning due to damages, such as fire or water damage, or just because it is a frequently used and worn down area that needs a good cleaning, SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz & Princeton team will go above and beyond to meet your expectations. For more severe jobs, the Alabama team may even come up to the job and price the cleaning. SERVPRO teams from all over come together and do what they can to make sure that the customer is happy and completely satisfied with the outcome. 

If you ever need commercial carpet cleaning or even duct cleaning, call SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz & Princeton today!

(270) 753-1160

When Storms Hit

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz & Princeton is a strong, reliable and trusted leader in emergency response for our area. Our team is committed to informing our community on how to be better prepared for when severe weather hits. When a bad storm hits, it can cause mayhem and devastation. As a 24 hour emergency response team, SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz & Princeton is here whenever you may need them. Our teams provide immediate and professional services to you, doing whatever they can to rectify such an unfortunate situation. Our crew members faced all kinds of storm damages this past summer; including flooded basements, tree limbs falling down on homes and businesses & water damage in attics. Urgency is very important to us. We know how difficult and disastrous times like these can be. Our teams care not only about their work, but those who they are completing the job for. For any storm needs, call SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz & Princeton!

(270) 753-1160

Fire Residue

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

Fire can become a disastrous thing. QUICK. Not just the fire itself, but everything that comes along with it. As often happens, the need for cleanup was more widespread than the fire itself. SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz & Princeton workers will come and make any bad situation worse. While fire does much more physical damage, the smoke and soot that comes along can sometimes be the more difficult part of the cleanup/restoration process. Our SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz & Princeton team will do whatever it takes to get your home, business, etc. back to the way it was, all while taking the stress of a bad occurrence off your plate. Our diligent, knowledgeable team is just a call away!

Extreme Team heads out!

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Disaster Recovery Team

Hurricane Florence recently hit the East Coast, causing major damages to homes and businesses. Our SERVPRO team packed up to head to North Carolina this past week, helping fellow SERVPRO of Fort Collins, Colorado team. Our crew packed up their truck with generators and desiccant dehumidifiers to help with hurricane relief. For any questions or concerns involving water or storm damages, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz & Princeton! 

(270) 753-1160

Conditions In Murray Might Be Right For Mold

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO knows what to do if mold grows in your home.

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at 270-753-1160

MOLD: The Silent Threat

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in Attic Due to Roof Leak

There are over 100,000 forms of fungi that can turn into mold. Mold in large amounts has the potential to cause health issues or even worse. Mold growths, or colonies, can start to grow on a damp surface in 24 to 48 hours. When water gets into a part of your home or business, getting the water out before mold has time to form is crucial. Mold reproduces by spores that can travel through the air, allowing mold to spread rapidly.

If your home has water damage due to:

• flooding
• sewage back-up
• plumbing or roof leaks
• damp basement or crawl space
• overflows from sinks or bathtubs
• high humidity (from steam cooking, dryer vents, humidifiers)

...mildew and mold will likely develop within 24 to 48 hours (though it may not always be noticeable!)

If you think you may have a mold problem due to one of these issues, call SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz & Princeton at 270-753-1160 today!

Esporta Soft Contents

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz & Princeton we have a state of the art Esporta machine to clean any and all soft contents. This includes even leather products, stuffed animals, whether or not they are soot damaged or even damaged by sewage. The items cleaned are certified food grade clean. The machine was developed in Canada by a gentleman whose son played youth hockey as a goal tender and his leather protective equipment was soaked with sweat and smelled terribly. He developed a hydraulic process that got the leather leg pads used by goalies back to like new condition. This evolved into this person starting his own company and manufacturing the best cleaning machine for soft contents made today. Out of Kelowna BC Canada, we have this machine and are part of the ECONA National Network.

Are you “Weather Aware”? Tips for Being Prepared as Storm Season Approaches

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

January 14, 2022

SERVPRO of LBL North has been involved in emergency storm assistance for many years now and during that time has actively worked with local insurance companies and emergency management teams to assist people in extremely difficult and dangerous situations. With severe weather season fast approaching our area, it is important to be reminded of some basic safety tips in order to stay prepared and alert during our ever changing weather patterns.  

From the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management:

“When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!” 

• Before a thunderstorm arrives, know the key warning signs: dark clouds, lightening, and thunder

• Get informed with a weather radio or by watching the news

• Have an emergency kit on hand that includes flashlights, battery operated weather radio, first aid kit, food and water, and essential medicines

• Stay inside and sheltered. If outside, move indoors or into a vehicle. Get out of water immediately. If trapped outside, make yourself as small as possible in a low lying area

• Make sure to wait at least 30 minutes after the storm has passed before going outside 

In addition, in order to be prepared for a tornado:

• Have a family tornado plan in place and practice a family tornado drill

• Watch for weather signs like dark greenish skies, large hail, dark low clouds and load roaring sounds

• Put as many walls and floors between you and the tornado as possible

• Flying debris is the greatest danger during a tornado

• If in a mobile home – GET OUT! Find a neighbor, underground shelter, or permanent structure for safety

As a trusted leader in emergency response for our area, SERVPRO of LBL North is committed to helping our community be prepared for weather emergencies. As a 24 hour emergency response partner, SERVPRO is dedicated to providing immediate and professional services to you and your family should the need arise during this severe weather season. 

What Happens After You Call SERVPRO of Murray?

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

Dehumidifiers and Air-Movers are set up to dry out a local church.

Have you ever wondered what happens after SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz & Princeton is called to the scene of a water damage event?

1. Kelly Bone, our lead water technician, meets with customer to discuss remediation process and questions or concerns.
2. Water extraction begins.
   • SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton uses a truck-mounted commercial extractor to remove any standing water.
3. Damage is assessed.
   • Anything that is salvageable is removed and kept safe from further damage.
   • Unsalvageable material is discarded (including contents, drywall, flooring, etc.)
4. Equipment is set up.
   • Industrial grade dehumidifiers and high-speed air movers are strategically placed in space to remove remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors.
5. Situation is monitored.
   • Kelly and her crew members return to the scene periodically to monitor drying process.
6. Once dry, reconstruction can begin.

There are many steps involved in drying out a home or commercial property after a water damage event. However, the amazing and unparalleled service Kelly Bone provides makes the process as seemless and hassle-free as possible for our customers.

Call SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton to help with your water damage event.

270-753-1160

Mold Under Wallpaper at Local Business

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

Mold was found lurking behind the wallpaper at this local business.

Water and mold damage can be sly threats to your local business! Though everything may appear clean and dry after a water damage event, there may be something lurking in places you would not expect. The walls in the offices of this Murray business had mold growth beneath the wallpaper. When time came for renovations, the owner of this business discovered just how sneaky mold can be! SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton was quickly called to action and tackled the invader. Mold can be addressed in a variety of ways depending on the spore, the location, and the occupancy of the space. Mold can be a scary situation, but SERVPRO is not intimidated!

When mold affects your home or business, call SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton to leave your space, "Like it never even happened."

Arson: When Bad Things Happen to Good People

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

The vandal set fire to this couch by breaking into the window behind it.

One of the most difficult parts of working for SERVPRO is seeing our customers go through dramatic events. Though these events are the cause of headaches and heartaches, they generally occur at the blame of faulty equipment or unavoidable weather incidents. However, one local rental property owner experienced an event far more incomprehensible: a property of his was the subject of arson.

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, arson is the leading cause of fire-related property damage in the United States.

When the property owner was alerted of the incident, SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton was called to the scene. The rental property was gutted from the inside out. Everything from the carpet where the fire started to the bathroom fixtures on the other end of the property had to be replaced. This job was completed swiftly and efficiently by the crew at SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton to ensure the safe return of the tenant.

Electrical Fire Safety

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

Electrical fires are never pretty.

Winter weather and the holiday season puts great stress on home outlets. Along with the ordinary plug-ins (coffee pot, lamps, hair dryers) we add the stress of Christmas lights and space heaters. These additional items are potentially very hazardous and can lead do significant damage to your home, business, or property.

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton wants to provide you with the steps necessary to prevent these things! However, if an unfortunate event occurs, we are here to help!

• Frequently check electrical cords
• Major appliances should be plugged directly into wall outlets (not extension cords)
• Clean dryer lint filter after every use
• Do not overload extension cords or power strips
• NEVER leave space heaters or heated blankets on unattended
• Unplug items after use

Use these tips provided by SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton as a proactive measure to prevent a fire damage event at your home or business.

Two Reason To Address Mold Immediately

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

Heavy mold in basement stairwell.

The presence of mold leaves behind an unmistakable musty odor. Although this fungus can develop inside a house when it is simply a little too humid, it is more likely to develop after flood water damages the premises. When that flooding is accompanied by sewage loss, the contaminants only exacerbate the problem. Homeowners in Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton, KY should try to prevent mold growth entirely. However, if mold does develop, then you need to address it right away before a bad stench turns into something much worse. 

1. Structural Damage
Mold is particularly destructive to certain materials, including gypsum board, plaster and wood. Over time, these materials may weaken and change color. You may not even see the damage if the item is painted, but the paint merely hides the mildew. The only way to ensure your home remains structurally sound is to remove all presence of mold. Certain structures may need to be replaced entirely to make sure your house is safe to live in. 

2. Rapid Growth
Mold growth can get out of hand in just 24 hours. It can spread exponentially when exposed to the right conditions. Leaks, condensation and high humidity can accelerate the growth process, causing the mold to overtake entire sections of walls and flooring. Over time, this can lead to toxic black mold. 

An even more dangerous aspect is that visible mold is only half the story. If you see mold, then there is a very high likelihood there is even more growing out of sight. You need someone to come out to your place immediately to ensure your house remains mold-free.

When bringing in a professional team in Murray, Benton, Cadiz, or Princeton, KY to address mold in your home, it is vital that every sign of it is removed. This includes the mold you see on the wall as well as spores that have entered the air. Without addressing the problem comprehensively, the mold growth will simply resume, sometimes in less than a day. Visit http://www.SERVPROmurraybentoncadizprinceton.com/ for more information on storm damage.

Flooding in Murray, KY: What To Do vs. What Not To Do

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO crew is always ready!

Murray, Kentucky and the surrounding western Kentucky region are known to be prone to a certain among of flooding. This year we received a significant amount of rain during the spring months and the flood gates had to be installed. SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton has a few tips to help you remember what TO DO and what NOT TO DO during a flood event.

What Not To Do:

1. Do not use your household vacuum to remove water.
2. Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet.
3. Do not leave wet fabrics ups. Hang fur and leather goods.

What To Do:

1. Turn air condition on for maximum drying in the summer.
2. Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
3. Remove art objects and collectibles to a safe, dry place.

For further information on how SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton would tackle your flood damage event, visit us here, or call us at (270) 573-1160 today!

Faster to Any Size Disaster!

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton 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 Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton 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 – 270-753-1160

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 Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton 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.

Storm Season is Here in Murary, Kentucky... Be Ready!

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton is here to help when storms come through!

It's that time of year again when storms can appear out of nowhere with forceful winds and torrential rains. We all want to keep our homes and families safe during this time. The best way to keep your family safe is through an at home kit. It's all about safety first, and having a storm plan in place before it hits.

FEMA gives us great tips on how to get started preparing our families and ourselves for storms:

1. How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?

2. What is my shelter plan?

3. What is my evacuation route?

4. What is my family/household communication plan?

Have a family meeting and discuss these steps to see what works best for you. 

We hope you don't need us, but when the storms pass through --remember SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton is here 365 24/7! 

Are you “Weather Aware”? Tips for Being Prepared as Storm Season Approaches

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton has been involved in emergency storm assistance for many years now and during that time has actively worked with local insurance companies and emergency management teams to assist people in extremely difficult and dangerous situations. With severe weather season fast approaching our area, it is important to be reminded of some basic safety tips in order to stay prepared and alert during our ever changing weather patterns.  

From the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management:

“When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!” 

• Before a thunderstorm arrives, know the key warning signs: dark clouds, lightening, and thunder

• Get informed with a weather radio or by watching the news

• Have an emergency kit on hand that includes flashlights, battery operated weather radio, first aid kit, food and water, and essential medicines

• Stay inside and sheltered. If outside, move indoors or into a vehicle. Get out of water immediately. If trapped outside, make yourself as small as possible in a low lying area

• Make sure to wait at least 30 minutes after the storm has passed before going outside 

In addition, in order to be prepared for a tornado:

• Have a family tornado plan in place and practice a family tornado drill

• Watch for weather signs like dark greenish skies, large hail, dark low clouds and load roaring sounds

• Put as many walls and floors between you and the tornado as possible

• Flying debris is the greatest danger during a tornado

• If in a mobile home – GET OUT! Find a neighbor, underground shelter, or permanent structure for safety

As a trusted leader in emergency response for our area, SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton is committed to helping our community be prepared for weather emergencies. As a 24 hour emergency response partner, SERVPRO is dedicated to providing immediate and professional services to you and your family should the need arise during this severe weather season. 

Mold Mitigation Services for Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

Molf found and contained behind a bar mirror.

Mold can sneak up in unlikely places, but SERVPRO is here to help provide a solution to your properties mold damage needs. 

There are many different factors that can cause mold growth in your home or business. SERVPRO Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton are here to help you find out your mold problems: 

The presence of visible mold. 

• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present. 
• Any evidence of past moisture issues. 
• Excessive humidity, especially during summer months.

If we find mold in your home or business in your home we can bring our team of highly trained mold remediation specialists. We will help eliminate mold and a potentially dangerous situation. We follow industry regulation to remove mold and reduce the risk of future mold growth.

If you need help solving your hold issue, call SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton today at (270) 753-1160!

Keep Calm During the Storm with SERVPRO of Paducah

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

With severe weather season here in our area, it is important to be reminded of some basic safety tips in order to stay prepared and alert during our ever changing weather patterns.  

From the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management:

“When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!” 

• Before a thunderstorm arrives, know the key warning signs:  dark clouds, lightening, and thunder

• Get informed with a weather radio or by watching the news

• Have an emergency kit on hand that includes flashlights, battery operated weather radio, first aid kit, food and water, and essential medicines

• Stay inside and sheltered.  If outside, move indoors or into a vehicle.  Get out of water immediately.  If trapped outside, make yourself as small as possible in a low lying area

• Make sure to wait at least 30 minutes after the storm has passed before going outside 

In addition, in order to be prepared for a tornado:

• Have a family tornado plan in place and practice a family tornado drill

• Watch for weather signs like dark greenish skies, large hail, dark low clouds and load roaring sounds

• Put as many walls and floors between you and the tornado as possible

• Flying debris is the greatest danger during a tornado

• If in a mobile home – GET OUT!  Find a neighbor, underground shelter, or permanent structure for safety

As a trusted leader in emergency response for our area, SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton is committed to helping our community be prepared for weather emergencies.  As a 24 hour emergency response partner, SERVPRO is dedicated to providing immediate and professional services to you and your family should the need arise during this severe weather season.

Murray Residents: Who To Call When Your Home Or Business Has Water Damage

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

The result of a pipe burst in this Princeton, KY home.

Your home should be your place of rest. But when water begins leaking - even small leaks in areas you can't see - your home could quickly become a source of stress. The possibility of harmful mold, rot and unseen damage may affect the value of your home and the health of loved ones.

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton professionals understand how disruptive water damages can be for your entire family and will help ensure the water is identified, regardless of where it hides. That is why we offer 24-hour emergency response by trained, uniformed restoration professionals. With top-of-the line equipment and time-tested cleanup and restoration techniques, SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton has the expertise to help make your house feel like home again.

After all, when it comes to your home and your family, even small disasters can feel like huge problems. So if a water damage occurs in your home, just call us (270) 753-1160. We'll be there to help.

Preventing Space Heater Fires in Your Murray, Kentucky Home

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

Approximately 25,000 house fires every year are attributed to space heaters. User error is the primary cause, although heaters without essential safety features may malfunction and pose a fire risk. Here are five ways that you can prevent a burned space heater from starting a fire in your home.

1. Keep a minimum of three feet between space heaters and combustibles. Combustibles include bedding, curtains, and upholstered furniture. You should also only operate a space heater on a hard, level, non-flammable surface.

2. Don't operate heaters unattended around pets or kids. Children, cats, and dogs don't understand the principles of fire safety.

3. Purchase a space heater with safety features. One of the best ways to prevent a burned space heater is to purchase a model that automatically shuts off when it overheats. Check the model you are considering for a safety certification label, ground fault circuit interrupter plug, and a sturdy cord that is at least six feet long. Make sure the heater has all of the features you need to stay warm while running a very low risk of fire.

4. Turn off or unplug heaters when not in use. This can reduce the risk of a fire starting when you are elsewhere in your home or away from home.

5. Avoid plugging other electronics into the same outlet as a space heater. You should also never use an extension cord, as this equipment heightens the overheating risk.

Your heater can only work as designed if it is kept in working condition. You may need to regularly clean the filter on your space heater to prevent it from overheating. In addition to following these steps, you should also test the smoke alarms in your home and replace batteries or damaged units. If a burned space heater does cause a fire, contact a smoke cleanup service in Western, Kentucky.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROmurraybentoncadizprinceton.com/.

Emergency Ready Profile

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

As a homeowner you always want to make sure you have emergency contacts close by in case anything unexpected happens. What if you are a homeowner but also a business owner? SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton realizes that you might not think about the unexpected things that might happen to your business, but we are here to help!

At SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton, we have an Emergency Ready Program available to you! Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster. 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 an 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 of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton Emergency Ready Profile Advatages:

- 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. However, it will save you valuable time if ever needed.

– This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.

– Establishes SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You will have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.  

Give us a call today and set up your ERP! (270) 753-1160

Controlling Mold in Your Murray, Benton, Cadiz, or Princeton Home or Business

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

You Can Control Mold

Inside your home you can control mold growth by:

• Controlling humidity levels;
• Promptly fixing leaky roofs, windows, and pipes;
• Thoroughly cleaning and drying after flooding;
• Ventilating shower, laundry, and cooking areas.

If mold is growing in your home, you need to clean up the mold and fix the moisture problem. Mold growth can be removed from hard surfaces with commercial products, soap and water, or a bleach solution of no more than 1 cup of household laundry bleach in 1 gallon of water.

Mold growth, which often looks like spots, can be many different colors, and can smell musty. If you can see or smell mold, a health risk may be present. You do not need to know the type of mold growing in your home, and CDC does not recommend or perform routine sampling for molds. No matter what type of mold is present, you should remove it. Since the effect of mold on people can vary greatly, either because of the amount or type of mold, you can not rely on sampling and culturing to know your health risk. Also, good sampling for mold can be expensive, and standards for judging what is and what is not an acceptable quantity of mold have not been set. The best practice is to remove the mold and work to prevent future growth.

If you choose to use bleach to clean up mold:

• Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners. Mixing bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products will produce dangerous, toxic fumes.
• Open windows and doors to provide fresh air.
• Wear non-porous gloves and protective eye wear.
• If the area to be cleaned is more than 10 square feet, consult the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guide titled Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings. Although focused on schools and commercial buildings, this document also applies to other building types. 
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using bleach or any other cleaning product.

www.cdc.gov

Prepare Your Murray, Benton, Cadiz, or Princeton Business for Winter Weather

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

There are many hazards that come when winter weather arrives in the Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton area. Prepare your business for winter weather!

-Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rai, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries. 

-Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential. 

-Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.

-Ask your SERVPRO Professional about starting an Emergency Ready Profile for your business. 

What is an Emergency Ready Profile?

It is a "snapshot" of each building owned/managed by a business, that provides critical information for emergency preparation.

Call SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton at (270) 753-1160 for help setting up your Emergency Ready Profile!

How To Tell Mold From Mildew: 3 Key Identifiers

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

Mold or Mildew?

Battling mold and mildew in your Murray, Benton, Cadiz, or Princeton, KY home can be a year-round housecleaning challenge. From preventing costly mold damage to scrubbing away mildew in the shower, fighting household fungi can take time and a considerable amount of elbow grease. However, trying to clean up mold on your own may cause the further spread of spores and increase the risk of a severe infestation. Knowing how to tell the difference between mold and mildew can help you save time, money and let you know whether you need the services of a certified mold remediation and removal company. 

1. Texture 

Although mold and mildew are both part of the fungi family, they have different textures that are usually visible to the naked eye. Mildew growth is typically thin and slimy, while mold is usually fuzzy or wooly. You can perform a quick test by adding a few drops of bleach to the suspect area, as mildew grows lighter on contact while mold retains its color. 

2. Color

You may be able to tell mold from mildew by the color of the growth. Mildew is usually grey or light yellow as it spreads, while mold growth comes in a variety of colors, from green to white to black. If you suspect what you see is black mold, it is a good idea to avoid touching the area and call in mold damage specialists to treat the problem instead, as this type of fungus can be aggressive and will likely need professional intervention. 

3. Growth Pattern

While both mold and mildew have a few similar qualities, the way each grows and spreads can help you tell them apart. Mildew is a surface fungus that can be wiped away easily, as it develops in flat, thin patches. Mold spores, however, penetrate the surface of any material they attach to and grow into wide patches that can be difficult to remove. 

It can be difficult to tell mold from mildew when you encounter either in your Murray, Benton, Cadiz, or Princeton home. However, knowing the characteristics of each can help you prevent mold damage and keep your home clean and sanitary.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROmurraybentoncadizprinceton.com/.

How Water Damage Can Hurt Your Business and What You Can Do

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

A water line break caused this local church to flood. This before picture shows just how much water can accumulate as a result of such an event.

Whether it comes from a broken pipe, a sprinkler malfunction or an overflowing toilet, water damage can be inconvenient and costly in Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton, KY. It can cause harm not only to your building but to electronics and furniture as well.

In What Ways Can Commercial Water Damage Happen?

Water damage can be devastating to a company. The following list outlines some of the most common ways your building can suffer from a water disaster: 

• One of the toilets in the restroom leaked overnight.
• A broken pipe or water main flooded your building.
• The fire sprinklers went off, causing an indoor rainstorm all over the office.

What Gets Damaged During an Indoor Flood?

Only a few inches of water covering the floor can cause costly damage to the carpets and walls and invite mold and wood rot. Furniture and expensive office equipment can be ruined. In severe flooding, the water may seep into the walls and damage electrical wires.

How Do You Deal With the Aftermath of Commercial Water Damage?

You should address water damage as soon as possible. Your water repair company in Murray, Benton, Cadiz, or Princeton, KY, can get started on preventing mold, cleaning soaked carpets and restoring waterlogged surfaces. You should also contact your insurance company for information on flood and water damage coverage.

How Can You Prevent Water Damage?

Regularly have your plumbing and fire sprinklers inspected and maintained to prevent leaks and burst pipes. If a major storm is approaching, prepare by placing sandbags around entrances and moving important documents and computers to a safe place. Install a water shut-off valve under your water heaters. Unfortunately, not all disasters can be prevented, but these tips can minimize the likelihood of severe damage.

Don’t let a broken pipe or toilet overflow disrupt your productivity. When you take swift action to prevent or address a flood, your water damage experts may be able to help you avoid a costly emergency and keep your business—not burst pipes—running smoothly.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROmurraybentoncadizprinceton.com/.

How To Protect Your Pipes From Freezing

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem

Water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal or plastic pipes. No matter the strength of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break.

Pipes that freeze most frequently are:

• Pipes that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines.
• Water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets.
• Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation.

How to Protect Pipes From Freezing

Before the onset of cold weather, protect your pipes from freezing by following these recommendations:

• Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer's or installer's directions. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed. Antifreeze is environmentally harmful, and is dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping.
• Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break.
• Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.
• Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas. Look in the garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.
• Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a "pipe sleeve" or installing UL-listed "heat tape," "heat cable," or similar materials on exposed water pipes. Newspaper can provide some degree of insulation and protection to exposed pipes – even ¼” of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that usually do not have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing.
• Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.
• When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

• If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.
• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you can not thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
• Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

Click here for more information.

If you have suspect a potential water damage at your home, Call SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton at (270) 753-1160!

When Storms or Floods hit the Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton area, SERVPRO is ready!

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton.

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton 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 the Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton areas, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 270-753-1160

Restoring Your Murray, Benton, Cadiz, or Princeton Commercial Property After A Water or Fire Damage Event

10/9/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage Mitigation at a Local Business

Flooding, water, and fire damage events at 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.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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 Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz, and Princeton specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water or fire 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.

Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

7/28/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton 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 - (270) 753-1160

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 Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton 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 Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton 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.

Certifications

• IICRC Certified Firm
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician

IICRC Certified Firm

7/26/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton 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 Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton 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.

Certifications 

Does Your Murray, Benton, Cadiz or Princeton Home Have a Mold Problem?

7/26/2017 (Permalink)

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

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (270) 753-1160

Check out our Mold Remediation services here.

When Storms or Floods hit Murray, Benton, Cadiz or Princeton, SERVPRO is Ready!

7/26/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton 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 McCracken or Calloway County, 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 (270) 753-1160

Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton Residents: Follow these Mold Tips if You Suspect Mold

7/26/2017 (Permalink)

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

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Paducah 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 Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton 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 – (270) 753-1160

Summer Storms? We've got you covered!

7/13/2017 (Permalink)

July 4^th is usually the premier weekend of summer In Western Kentucky, but this past July proved to be very different.  Storms took over the area with torrential rain and excessive winds which led to major flooding and uprooted trees.  The area was faced with severe wind damage and several roads were washed away.  With the phones ringing off the hook, our crews hit the pavement in full force to take care of our community.  Many homes and businesses were faced with large tree limbs through their roofs, allowing heavy rain to enter their attics; others encountered flooded basements. All of these concerns are important to SERVPRO.  We know how urgent the need is to respond to these kinds of emergencies! It’s your home---your business--- our concern. When it comes to our community we stand together!

Graves County Middle School Fire

7/13/2017 (Permalink)

Our middle school fire alarm sounded in the middle of the night recently. A soft drink machine malfunctioned, causing a small fire. Of course, we are grateful for the firefighters who extinguished the blaze quickly. As often happens, the need for cleanup was more widespread than the fire itself. SERVPRO of Paducah workers responded immediately to take care of the damage the unexpected fire caused with precision and care. They had school ready for students when they arrived. The SERVPRO team stayed on site until everything had returned to normal and well into the day after the fire. Throughout their stay, every worker was friendly and highly professional! Their work was efficient and complete. I cannot imagine a better response than SERVPRO of Paducah accomplished! –

Superintendent Kim Dublin, Graves County (Ky.) Schools

For Immediate Service in Murray, Benton, Cadiz or Princeton Call SERVPRO

7/13/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in McCracken and Calloway Counties. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (270) 753-1160

Residential Services

Whether your Murray, Benton, Cadiz or Princeton, KY 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:

• 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 your McCracken or Calloway County commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So 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. Learn more about our commercial services: Commercial Services

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton Residents! We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

7/13/2017 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - (270) 753-1160

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (270) 753-1160

Smoke and Soot Cleanup for your Murray, Benton, Cadiz or Princeton Residence

7/13/2017 (Permalink)

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 Murray, Benton, Cadiz and Princeton 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 – (270) 753-1160