Controlling Moisture in Your Home

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

Extra moisture in your Franklin County, MO home can cause damage and encourage potentially harmful mold and mildew growth.

How can you reduce moisture in your home? Learn to keep moisture out and prevent damage and mold.
Activities such as cooking, bathing, and dish washing can add moisture into the air. Even some heating appliances can cause additional humidity in your home, for example: unvented gas or kerosene models. Droplets can accumulate on common cool surfaces during the winter, such as windows, walls, and doors that lack proper insulation. This can cause rot and peeling of paint and is a good environment for mold growth.
If you happen to see moisture accumulating, be sure to dry it promptly. Be sure to take care of the issue that is causing the moisture.
Storm doors and windows can minimize cool surfaces in the winter by separating the interior from cold air outside. Upgrading your windows to double and triple pane can also help insulate the interior glass. This will also make your home more energy efficient.
Opening drapes and blinds in the winter allows warmth to the interior glass. Some condensation can occur, but the improved circulation makes it less probable to accumulate. Insulating cold-water pipes eliminates a common cool surface.
Bathroom exhaust fans, dryer exhaust and ducted kitchen exhaust hoods that vent to the outside remove moisture that some activities create. Keep the devices free of dust, lint, grease or anything that could keep them from working efficiently.

Other ways to reduce air moisture:
•Covering pots while cooking, when possible
•Leaving room doors open to allow good air circulation
•Storing firewood outside
•Covering aquariums

Moisture in the home is not always as obvious as water beading on a window. Poor ventilation in an attic can result in condensation, promoting mold growth in the framing elements of the house. A sealed, unused fireplace creates an opportunity for moisture problems. If air doesn't circulate in the fireplace, condensation can accumulate on the walls and soak into the masonry. If you have a crawlspace, moisture from the soil can enter your home, increasing the level of humidity. A vapor barrier over the bare soil blocks the moisture.
Rain that seeps into your home's foundation can lead to moisture problems. Make sure your gutters work properly and direct water away from your home's foundation.

Some moisture problems require more complex solutions, and sources of moisture may be hidden. It may be time to call a professional like SERVPRO. Extra moisture in your home can cause mold. Mold can produce allergens and irritants so if you suspect you have a mold issue, you should call us to inspect your Franklin County, MO home. We are trained mold damage specialists who get started quickly to get your Franklin County, MO home (or business) back to normal, with specific training and certifications to handle your restoration needs.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Ready For Whatever Happens

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is “Ready for whatever happens”.

“Ready for whatever happens” is one of SERVPRO’s trademarked tag lines. You see it in commercials, you see it in advertisements, on our billboards and trucks, but what does it mean?

“Ready for whatever happens” means we are there whenever you need us. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It doesn’t matter if it’s a holiday, the middle of the night or the middle of a catastrophe. We are here for you.  We know that most disasters do not happen in the middle of a weekday. They happen at the least convenient time, that’s when you need us most. 
When you call SERVPRO you will speak to a live person. We know you can’t describe your emergency to an answering machine! We will get the appropriate crew or crews to you in an average of two hours. We know that when you call, you need help, and you need it now.

“Ready for whatever happens” means that we have the proper training and education to handle any emergency mitigation situation you may have.  If we haven’t dealt with it before, we will figure it out fast.  Our training and education are ongoing from IICRC certifications to SERVPRO Industries certifications, to EPA certifications, we’ve got you covered.  If your business just spilled hundreds of gallons of vegetable oil into landscaping rocks, or your business just had a polymer spill we can help.  (Yes, both are true situations we were called into clean up.)    
We spend a lot of time and expense keeping our employees current on training and education. Additionally, we have a vast network to call on for help for those unique situations.  We have chemists and experts on call and SERVPRO Industries to help, we have 1700 fellow franchises to call on and we always have the IICRC. There is nothing that we cannot handle. 

“Ready for whatever happens” means that we have the equipment for any size jobs. Whether its hundreds of air movers, dehumidifiers, heaters, air scrubbers, hardwood drying mats, generators, or even specialized equipment such as trailer mounted descant dehumidifiers we’ve got it covered. We just took delivery on even more air movers and dehumidifiers to help us expand our coverage even more.  Some of the equipment might sit on the shelves from time to time, but when it’s needed, it’s here and ready.

“Ready for whatever happens” means there is no job too big or too small for us to handle.  Any size fire, any size water damage, any size sewage loss, any size storm loss. We can handle it.  If our franchise needs help, we can quickly call-in reinforcements from neighboring franchises. If we still need help, we can call in SERVPRO Large Loss or Extreme Teams to help. We can have tractor trailers of extra equipment, and hundreds of extra crew members on site within hours. Yes, HOURS.

Lastly, “Ready for whatever happens” means SERVPRO is the mitigation company business, homeowners and Insurance companies rely on to save, preserve, and restore their most valuable assets.

Two Minutes

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage? Call SERVPRO of Franklin County today.

Did you know that if a fire starts in your home, you may have just two minutes to escape?

The most effective way to protect yourself and your home from fire is to identify and remove fire hazards. 60 percent of house fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. During a home fire, working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives.

Fire Safety Tips

• If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL for help.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
• Test smoke alarms once a month, if they’re not working, change the batteries.
• Talk with all household members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.

Fire and smoke damage is especially destructive. In many instances your Franklin County, MO property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. We specialize in fire and water damage restoration; it’s the cornerstone of our business. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

We understand you may be feeling confused, stressed, and more than a little vulnerable. Our technicians will treat your family with empathy and your home with great care. Until help arrives, please refer to our Fire Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

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. When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Franklin County is locally owned and operated and we are proud to be part of this community. We are also part of a national network of over 1,650 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large-scale fire, water, and storm disasters.

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Franklin County for prompt

Commercial carpet cleaning is the best way to preserve and extend the life of carpeting, but proper treatment requires training. SERVPRO Professionals are trained by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), and it is essential for a professional. We are IICRC Certified.

What can you do to keep your carpet in shape? Carpet care starts with keeping the carpet clean and soil out to begin with. By placing mats in the entranceway and high traffic areas, there will be less dirt inside your business. Be sure to vacuum frequently. Vacuuming ensures deposits soils do not penetrate deeply into fibers and cause damage.

Spot and stain control is essential, even if the flooring is colored in a way to make stain detection difficult. Stains will degrade the integrity of the flooring and alter its texture, so professionals will have to respond quickly to any problem areas. Formulated detergents and targeted agitation will normally do the trick. Finally, deep treatment, usually through hot water extraction or encapsulation methods, will need to be done several times a year to remove soils that have become embedded in the carpeting’s fibers. SERVPRO can help with your carpet stains and regular deep treatment.

We know as a business owner, you don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your business. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Franklin County for prompt service. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have Questions? Call Today – (636) 583-5200

Source: http://www.IICRC.org/

Does Your Home Have Dry Rot?

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

We provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Would you know if your home had dry rot?

It can happen to any type of wood in any climate. It can ruin the structure of your home. Dry rot is found in attics, basements, and under sinks. Generally, in places with moisture.

What causes dry rot?

Despite the word “dry” in its name the fungus that causes dry rot grows when the moisture in the wood exceeds 20% or when the wood is exposed to sitting water and extreme humidity. Dry rot can leave wood weak and brittle.

The primary clues to look for in dry rot:

• Yellow tinge to the surface
• Deep cracks in the wood
• Wood will crumble

Since moisture is necessary for the fungus to grow, you can typically find dry rot when:

• After a flood or natural disaster
• After a plumbing accident or water damage
• In humid climates
• When wood is not properly dried

How can I protect my home from dry rot?

• Inspect your roof annually to check for leaks or holes that can let water in and cause dry rot.
• Make sure your gutters are installed properly and are directing water away from your home.
• Check your plumbing to make sure you don’t have any noticed leaks.
• Make sure your ventilation in bathrooms, kitchen and attics is working properly and can remove excess moisture from your home.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Franklin County?

Properly restoring your home after a water damage event requires specialized equipment and products. This advanced equipment helps us to remove the water, even hidden moisture, quickly and efficiently. We then dry the structure with powerful dehumidifiers. We provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (636) 583-5200

FEMA’s National Preparedness Month Spotlights the Importance of Understanding and Managing Risk

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

The free SERVPRO READY app allows home and business owners to store essential contact and property information electronically where it can be accessed

SERVPRO of Rolla disaster mitigation specialist urges Rolla, MO area residents to create a disaster management and recovery plan before the unexpected happens.

September is National Preparedness Month, part of the ongoing “Ready” initiative of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). According to FEMA’s “Are You Ready” guide, the first step in effective disaster preparedness is to understand your specific risks—first by identifying the hazards that could possibly affect you and then by evaluating your actual vulnerability to those sources of danger.

Once you understand your risks, you can effectively plan to mitigate them by decreasing your vulnerability and then manage their consequences quickly and effectively if the worst does happen. Of course, individual home or business owners’ risks vary depending on their location, but regardless of where you live or work, FEMA’s guide has some basic steps that everyone can take to prepare for the unexpected.

1. Create a family communication and shelter plan.
2. Sign up for emergency alerts, including FEMA alerts
3. Build your savings if possible and keep a small emergency fund of cash on-hand at home.
4. Create an Emergency Financial First Aid Kit
5. Gather and safeguard critical documents like deeds, medical information, insurance policies, and a list of your household belongings.
6. Create an emergency kit with basic tools and enough food and water to last 72 hours and keep the contents fresh and up to date.

In addition to the planning tools and checklists provided by FEMA, businesses like SERVPRO that specialize in disaster mitigation and restoration offer free tools that make disaster recovery easier. The free SERVPRO READY app allows home and business owners to store essential contact and property information electronically where it can be accessed in seconds with a mobile device. Local business owners who designate SERVPRO of Rolla as their disaster mitigation and restoration provider benefit from a no-cost assessment of their facility along with help completing a comprehensive Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) to be stored in the READY app.

The uncomfortable truth is that no amount of preparedness will prevent disasters from striking, but preparedness can help disaster victims survive and then recover. When disaster strikes, sometimes it’s difficult to even know where to start picking up the pieces. Having critical documents and details at your fingertips helps, but so does having access to professionals who know how to help you return to normal, "Like it never even happened." The disaster remediation specialists at SERVPRO of Rolla know what to do when you don’t know which way to turn. We’re here to help when you need us.”

For more information on SERVPRO of Rolla, please contact us at (573) 368-5555. For more information on SERVPRO® and the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program, please visit https://ready.SERVPRO.com.

Source:

• 2021 Preparedness Calendar | Ready.gov
• https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2021-03/are-you-ready-guide.pdf
• https://www.fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-app-text-messages
• https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2020-03/ready_emergency-financial-first-aid-toolkit.pdf
• https://www.ready.gov/kit
• https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp

About SERVPRO

For more than 50 years, SERVPRO® has been a trusted leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration services, mold mitigation, and biohazard and pathogen remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,900 individually owned and operated franchises spans- the United States and Canada, responding to property damage emergencies large and small – from million-square-foot commercial facilities to individual homes. When disaster strikes, homeowners, business owners, and major insurance companies alike rely on SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

September is National Preparedness Month

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

An easy way to prepare this September is by having a free SERVPRO ERP assessment.

Did you know that September is National Preparedness Month? National Preparedness Month is an observance each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. The 2021 theme is “Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love.”

Here are some ways you can prepare this September:

Make A Plan

Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster. Make sure to update your plan based on the Centers for Disease Control recommendations due to the coronavirus.

Build A Kit

Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home.  Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. Update your kits and supplies based on recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control.

No-Cost Preparedness

Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your family.  Know the risk of disasters in your area. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards.  Check your insurance coverage to make sure it is up-to-date.

Teach Youth About Preparedness

Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage

Another way to prepare your business to be ready for whatever happens is to schedule a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. The SERVPRO ERP is a no cost assessment of your facility, even if you have multiple locations. To learn more, visit ready.SERVPRO.com or call SERVPRO of Franklin County at 636-583-5200 today.

Soda Blasting: A Fire Damage Solution

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Contents were removed from this fire damaged home. The next step in the restoration process will be soda blasting.

When you have a devastating fire in your Franklin County, MO home or business, there is much to consider. Water damage can be a concern, but smoke and soot damage will likely be throughout.

It’s important to hire a professional like SERVPRO of Franklin County when dealing with fire damage. We are certified in fire and water damage clean up and restoration and can prevent more damage from taking place.

Often affected surfaces are darkened with soot can be restored with a process called soda blasting. It is an effective cleaning solution for residential and commercial fire damage restoration projects. It uses sodium bicarbonate shot from a blaster on all affected surfaces. It removes the visible soot damage and effectively deodorizes the charred smell that lingers after a fire has been extinguished.

Soda blasting is a non-destructive cleaning method that is not abrasive and quickly removes ash and soot from walls, stone, and other materials without harming underlying surfaces.

The technique also has the following benefits:

• Uses non-toxic materials – bicarbonate of soda and air – that carry no risk of exposure or form residue
• Completely dry system eliminates water damage risks
• Deodorizes as it cleans
• Cleans quickly and completely
• Portable and simple to set up
• Non-reactive with many materials including metals

The negatives are few, such as shielding nearby plants. Soda blasting is a powerful took for safely restoring residential or commercial fire damage.

If your home or business has been affected by fire, smoke, or soot damage, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call 24/7. We are ready to help.

Why call SERVPRO?

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

We provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Calling in a water damage restoration service might not be on the fun side of the to-do list, but when it’s needed, it’s important to not wait. Water can get into just about any place, even a tiny little crack. It does not matter how the water gets in, or even the size, your response should be the same: Call a professional.

It's especially important if your home or business was flooded by a contaminated source, not to handle it yourself. Floods and sewage backflows can contain bacteria, viruses, and fungi that even momentary skin contact can leave you seriously ill. A IICRC trained water damage technician not only has the tools to eliminate moisture, but we have the personal protective equipment that keeps our technicians safe from harm.

SERVPRO of Franklin County technicians have a lot of technology to help make sure all the water is removed from your property. This includes powerful vacuums and pumps, air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and specially chemicals for treating microbial threats. We will make sure any mold that is present will be cleaned and removed properly. This keeps your home or business safe for everyone.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

We are water damage restoration specialists and are ready to restore your Franklin County, Missouri home or business back to pre-water damage condition. We quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment. SERVPRO of Franklin County uses moisture monitoring equipment to effectively measure and document the drying process to ensure your property is dry.

Please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Need Water Damage or Flood Cleanup Services? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Are You Prepared for Severe Storms?

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Choose the company that has the resources and equipment to handle your water damage emergency. SERVPRO of Franklin County is "Here to Help."

Severe weather can happen anytime, anywhere. Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms associated with freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds.

Knowing the different potential dangers and how to prepare can help keep your property and family safe.

Here are some common threats to your Franklin County, MO home or business:

• Tornadoes
• Floods
• Thunderstorms & Lightning

Once you know your risk, it is important to develop an emergency plan.

• Make a family emergency plan
• Be informed about emergency alerts

What can you do when your Franklin County, MO home or business suffers water damage from a severe storm? Know who to call to quickly get help.

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial.  You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job.

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition. SERVPRO of Franklin County can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility, IICRC industry certifications, and weekly training at our office, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

SERVPRO of Franklin County is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here too and are proud to be part of the Union community. We are also part of a national network of 1,650 with special Disaster Recovery Teams that can respond with additional resources during catastrophic storms and major events.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us 24/7: (636) 583-5200

Franklin County, MO Commercial Flood Damage

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Whether you require cleanup after commercial water damage or simply need a carpet cleaning, call us 24/7, 7 days a week.

If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage in Franklin County, MO, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.

Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration

Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.

Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply stores. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible.

Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particle board, carpets or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at the minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present.

Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning and possibly restructuring. Water damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particle board and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

Services You Can Count On in Franklin County, MO

You can depend on SERVPRO to provide reasonable prices for commercial water damage and other services in the Franklin County, MO area. Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage, and storm damage. We also assist with mold remediation, and we're qualified to provide cleaning and building services. Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration.

Whether you require cleanup after commercial water damage or simply need a carpet cleaning, call us 24/7, 7 days a week at 636-583-5200.

Firework Celebration Safety

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

Stay safe during your Fourth of July celebration.

The fourth of July would not be complete without fireworks. However, the thrill of fireworks can also bring injuries.

According to cpsc.gov you can firework injuries by following these safety tips:

• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.

We hope that you stay safe over the holiday! If disaster does strike, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call. We are “Here to Help” 24/7: 636-583-5200.

Summer Cleaning Ideas

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

Summer is here and that means long days and hot weather. While you may enjoy spending some time outdoors in the pool, some days might be too hot to enjoy outdoors. It can be a great time to get some indoor projects done as well. Since the kids are home from school, have them lend a hand to get the cleaning done even faster.

Here are 6 cleaning ideas you can accomplish this year:

Pantry & Refrigerator
Start by checking the dates on foods. If its expired, throw it away! With growing kids, there can also be a lot of half-eaten or open boxes that have spent some serious time on the shelves. Now is the time to purge and organize! If there are items that you never use, but is not expired, it might be a good idea to just get rid of it: find a local food pantry and donate!

Clean your upholstery
When was the last time you cleaned your sofa or recliner? With the family outside playing, it can be the perfect time to get your furniture cleaned.

Learn more about upholstery cleaning.

Clean the garage
If you parked in the garage over the winter, your garage is probably filthy from the road dirt and salt. If you do not park in the garage, is it because your garage is full of clutter? It might be an excellent time to give it some serious cleaning. Organize and get rid of things you do not use or that have broken. Consider using overhead storage or bins to help keep your garage organized.

Rearrange the kids rooms
Some children like to hide things, wrappers, broken toys, even food. You will likely be surprised at some of the things you will find hidden in the small corners of their bedrooms! These are also locations that dust, and allergens can build up as they are typically harder to clean places. Maybe it’s time to replace some old furniture in their rooms or a new color? It can be an exciting project for everyone.

Clean the carpets
It can be a great time to have the carpets cleaned. We recommend cleaning your carpets at least once a year.

Learn more about carpet cleaning.

Air ducts & HVAC Cleaning
With the summer heat, chances are your air conditioning system will be working hard. Be sure to get it cleaned out so it can work properly and efficiently and so it’s not spreading dust or bacteria into the air.

Learn more about duct cleaning.

SERVPRO of Franklin County
When you decide it is time to have some extra cleaning done, give the professionals a call. You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, but our professional residential cleaning services can also make a dirty carpet "Like it never even happened."

Need cleaning services? (636) 583-5200

Hoarder Cleanup

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

Hoarder Cleanup

According to The Mayo Clinic, “Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of the items. Excessive accumulation of items, regardless of actual value, occurs.”

Hoarded items are often things that other people would throw away or consider junk or garbage. Old newspapers, junk mail, packaging, and food containers are some examples, but there are many others. Most people suffering from hoarding disorder do not consider their habits to be an issue.

Hoarding can lead to homes to be filled to full capacity from years of accumulation, there may be pathways that are small and narrow with items packed to the ceiling. Bug, fleas, rats and other vermin can be present, which would also cause an exterminator to be called. Sometimes the hoarding may spread to the yard and storage facilities.

SERVPRO of Franklin County has encountered hoarding situations in several different ways.

Often, we are called for a fire or water loss and find the hoarding situation when they arrive on-site. Our technicians’ will communicate with the insurance company regarding their content’s coverage, and after approval, contents can be packed out and possibly cleaned, dried, and stored by SERVPRO of Franklin County or relocated to a storage facility so work on the fire or water loss can begin.

Another way we encounter hoarding jobs is through calls from landlords, case workers, real estate agents, or family members, often after the death of a loved one. In these situations, the crew will see if they should look for any items of importance while they clean the job. Sometimes family members will come and try to help the hoarder sort through their contents as well.

Each case is very different, and hoarding jobs are often sensitive situations, but SERVPRO of Franklin County is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” If you encounter a hoarding situation, call SERVPRO of Franklin County today.

Grill Fires Can Turn Dinner into Disaster

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Our trained professionals are here to help you recover "Like it never even happened."

As the summer season approaches, local fire and disaster remediation company SERVPRO of Franklin County knows that the number of grill fires will increase, peaking in July. Charcoal and gas grills, barbeques are involved in an average of more than 5,000 structure fires each year and almost 5,000 additional outdoor fires. Beyond that, grilling accidents result in 19,700 trips to the hospital annually. Thermal burns account for 9,500 of those visits, and children under the age of five account for an average of 2,000, or 39 percent, of those burns. Families can take steps to protect their home from damage and their family from injuries and still enjoy home-grilled, summer meals.

Before you grill:

• READY: Clean grill racks and grease trays. For gas grills, check the gas tank hose for leaks at the beginning of the season.
• SET: Choose a safe, firm, level spot for the grill away from coolers, running children and pets, and mingling guests. Grill outside, never in a garage or under the awning on a deck, the eaves of your home, or low-hanging branches.
• GO: Prepare the grill for cooking carefully. For charcoal grills, use a charcoal chimney with newspaper, a charcoal starter fluid, or an electric charcoal starter plugged into an outdoor-rated extension cord. For gas grills, open the lid before turning the grill on. If you smell gas after the grill is lit, do not try to move the grill. Get away from the grill and call the fire department.

While you grill:

• SAFE ZONE: Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the hot grill, both while you are cooking and after you serve the food. Grill surfaces can remain hot for an hour or more.
• SAFE TOOLS: Use long-handled grill utensils in good condition; avoid loose, flowing clothing; and wear flame-retardant mitts to adjust vents to help prevent burns.
• SAFE COOKING: Keep the fire under control. Manage flareups by adjusting grill height, using grill controls, or spreading out the coal bed. Keep baking soda within reach to control grease fires. Watch for blowing embers and have a fire extinguisher, a garden hose, or a bucket of sand handy to extinguish spark triggered fires. Never attempt to move a hot grill.

Fire prevention is better than a cure. Fires and burn injuries caused by grills are not strictly a summer phenomenon. Nearly half of home grillers use their grill year-round, so it is important to keep these safety guidelines in mind all year long.

Home fires can be devastating, both financially and emotionally, because smoke and water damage often amplify the destruction to both the structure and its contents. Our trained professionals are here to help you recover "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration services and repair services, helping to remediate damage for both commercial and residential customers.

For more information visit our website or give us a call: 636-583-5200.

Psychrometrics

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

If your home or business suffers from a water damage event, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

Did you know there is a science behind the process of drying?

The knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Franklin County is trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages.

If your business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of Franklin County will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is nature often takes too long, and more damage can occur. For this reason, SERVPRO of Franklin County has been trained to use top-of-the line equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more.

DRYBOOK DOCUMENTATION 

SERVPRO of Franklin County uses technology to help ensure your property is dried quickly and efficiently. DryBook is a proprietary tool that:

• Manages industry drying requirements.
• Provides real-time documentation on the drying process.
• Validates that services are executed to standard.
• Reports to all stakeholders involved. 
• Allows real-time updates through DryBook™ Mobile integration. This improves results and restores your property at a faster rate, getting you back in your home or business sooner.

SERVPRO also uses state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

The bottom line? SERVPRO of Franklin County has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

What to Do After the Storm

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your Franklin County, MO home or business.

Storms can bring heavy rains, strong winds and destructive hail. Your home protects you from the elements, so be sure to check it for damage afterward. It is a good idea to check your property even if you do not suspect damage. This can help prevent more problems later and determine if you need to make an insurance claim.

Roof
Your roof can be very vulnerable, because so many things can damage it. When you experience high winds, downed tree branches or a hailstorm, after the storm ends, look for these indicators of damage:

• Holes in the roof
• Split Seams
• Missing Shingles
• Leaks in roof or ceiling

Exteriors

Siding, stucco, and brick are all durable, but they can suffer storm damage. Check for:

• Cracking, chipping or ding and dents on siding. Check in different lighting because you may see something you missed.
• Holes in stucco
• Damaged brick and tuck pointing.
• Detached or damaged trim, gutters, etc.

General Tips

• Severe storms often will knock down power lines. If this happens on your property, rope off 30 feet in each direction around the line and do not touch it. Call 911 and the power company immediately.
• Be sure to do a full check of your property, including things such as your air-conditioning unit, fences, vent caps, etc. And don’t forget to check your vehicles if they were not garaged at the time of the storm.
• Check your crawl space and basement. You need to be sure no water is getting in, and, if it is, make sure it is removed quickly via a sump pump or underground drainage system.
• Take pictures of all damage from different angles. Finally, knowing the details of your homeowner’s coverage, your limits and your deductibles can help you during the insurance claims process. It is a great idea to examine your policy and know what your homeowner’s insurance covers now, before the storm.

Restoration

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your Franklin County, MO home or business back to pre-storm condition. We offer emergency board up and roof tarp services, and our goal is to be onsite within four hours. We are available 24/7, 7 days a week.

Give us a call: (636) 583-5200.

Spring Cleaning Tips to Avoid Allergies

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

Need a little extra help this spring? Give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

After a long winter, spring is finally here. If you’re anything like us, you have plenty of work to do around your house. 

Some of that work consists of making your home a safe environment against allergies.

Here are a few tips to help keep allergens out of your home this spring. 

• Hepa-Vac Your Home

Spring is allergy season, which means it’s important to suck away all the dust and dander that has formed over the winter.  

A hepa-vac is your best bet to get rid of all the dust that has piled up.  

Why use a hepa-vac instead of a standard vacuum? 

Hepa-vacs are much more effective in keeping in what they pick up. Dirt goes in, and it doesn’t come out. 

Hepa-vacs will get rid of all the cobwebs and dust in crevices and other hard to reach places like ceiling fans. 

If you don’t have a hepa-vac, at the very least use a vacuum with attachments like dusting brushes or hoses that can clean more than just your floor. 

• Purify the Air

It can be as simple as leaving your windows open for a few hours to release stagnant air that has filled your home throughout the winter, or you can use an air purifier to remove airborne particles.

This is also the time to swap out any dirty filters.

Also, if it’s been more than three years it may be beneficial to get an air duct cleaning.

• Clean Your Carpets and Upholstery 

Again, a standard vacuum won’t cut it here.

To properly deep clean your carpets and upholstery, it’s important to use more thorough methods like hot water extraction. 

Carpets need to be maintained regularly. Waiting until carpets look dirty can end up with the carpet being too damaged to ever be fully restored. Dirt builds up in layers, and when a carpet looks dirty you are only seeing the dirt at the tips of the fibers. 

While upholstery can be cleaned effectively by hand or by washing machine, it will pale in comparison to a hot water extraction cleaning. 

The professionals at SERVPRO of Franklin County can be used to thoroughly clean your carpet and upholstery. 

• Wash Your Pet’s Bed

An overlooked source for dust is pet bedding.

This can easily be cleaned, either in the washing machine on the highest setting, or by placing the bedding in the hot sun or the freezing cold at least once every two weeks. You may also want to consider switching your pet’s bedding to a wool material, as it is resistant to dust mites.

Document Restoration Services

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County knows timely mitigation is key to reducing severity and recovering damaged items. As a leader in the restoration industry, we know water or smoke damaged paper can rapidly deteriorate. Without using the proper handling, files and irreplaceable documents can be lost forever. Let SERVPRO of Franklin County help you recover your damaged paper goods before it is too late.

Our technicians are trained to use the most advanced technology for document recover and drying. In fact, we use the same technique as the Library of Congress uses to dry water-damaged books.

Why choose SERVPRO® Vacuum Freeze Drying?

Vacuum freeze drying is the most efficient and effective way to salvage water-damaged documents. The Document Restoration Team uses sublimation—turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage to avoid causing more damage to the documents. This process can recover even the most delicate items—from documents to photographs and x-rays, to entire business archives. All employees of the Document Restoration Team are HIPAA Master certified and once your items arrive at the SERVPRO® facility, 24/7 video surveillance is guaranteed.

Digitizing

With the new age of technology, digitizing records and documents has become a standard practice in most industries. This eliminates the need to have massive file storage rooms and allows us to access records at the click of a button. If your file room was damaged by water or smoke and needs to be cleaned, dried or decontaminated, digitizing might be a good choice to eliminate the need to have hundreds or even thousands of documents and records in storage.

Gamma Irradiation

Gamma irradiation is a process used for cleaning/disinfecting and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods. In a CAT 3 situation (sewage or flood water), documents are not only deteriorating but are also infected with all types of bacteria. In most storm situations, you are dealing with CAT 3 water; therefore, most of the affected documents you encounter will be contaminated. If this is the case, decontamination is always a must. In living cells, these disruptions result in damage to the DNA and other cellular structures. These photo induced changes at the molecular level cause the death of the organism or render the organism incapable of reproduction. The gamma process does not create residuals or impart radioactivity in processed products.

Certified Destruction

Unfortunately, many businesses and government agencies must dispose of counterfeit, faulty, expired or contaminated materials. All entities need to be certified that their products and materials are destroyed. The guarantee of certified destruction is to protect one’s liabilities, brand image or proprietary information. We guarantee certified destruction to give you peace of mind that your documents are disposed of properly.

SERVPRO’s goal is to make the process as simple as possible for customers. Contact SERVPRO of Franklin County for more information on Document Restoration services.

Want to DIY clean your carpet? Think again.

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Protect your investment by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery.

Although it may seem like a smart alternative, do-it-yourself home carpet cleaners cannot match professional services. Our certified professionals use a variety of cleaning agents, equipment, and other tools that enable deep and effective cleaning. We also have valuable skills and knowledge that helps us determine when the job has been done right.

It is even possible that DIY-ing your carpet cleaning can damage your carpet! Not to mention the process can be strenuous and stressful. Are you removing enough water? Did you get the carpet dry enough? If you do not, the extra moisture can even provide the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold to grow.

With certification comes knowledge, so when you choose a IICRC certified firm such as SERVPRO of Franklin County, you know you are getting someone who knows what they are doing.

We will get the job done right. 

Life happens. Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents and homes get dirty. SERVPRO of Franklin County have the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service. Our residential cleaning services will ease the burden of the constant maintenance cleaning of your home, but will also create a safe, clean, and comfortable living environment for you and your family.

Protect your investment by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery. For a cleaning backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 40 years of experience and Professionals trained to the highest standards, call us today.

Need Carpet or Upholstery Cleaning? Call Today – (636) 583-5200

Learn the Science of Drying

5/9/2021 (Permalink)

If your home or business has water damage, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call. We'll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Psychrometrics: The Science of Drying

The knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Franklin County is trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages.

If your business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of Franklin County will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

What exactly does “speed up Mother Nature” mean? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out. For this reason, SERVPRO of Franklin County has been trained to use top-of-theline equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more.

DRYBOOK™ DOCUMENTATION 

SERVPRO of Franklin County uses the latest technology to help ensure your property is dried quickly and efficiently. You will see our technicians using iPads to document the drying process. DryBook™ is a proprietary tool that:

• Manages industry drying requirements.
• Provides real-time documentation on the drying process.
• Validates that services are executed to standard.
• Reports to all stakeholders involved. 
• Allows real-time updates through DryBook™ Mobile integration. This improves results and restores your property at a faster rate, getting you back in your home or business sooner.

SERVPRO® also uses state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

The bottom line? SERVPRO of Franklin County has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Deep Cleaning Local Restaurants

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

If your business is in need of a thorough deep cleaning, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

The owner was appreciative and said that his restaurant team said nothing but good things about the SERVPRO of Franklin County crew. He is also making an appointment to have an SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile done for all of his restaurants. Learn more about the READY profile here: https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/readyprogram

This is just one of the many commercial services SERVPRO of Franklin County offers. It is also an example of how willing we are to work around your business’ busy schedule.

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

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

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

Have Questions? Call Today – (636) 583-5200

How to Deal With Spring Mold

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

If you have mold problems, call SERVPRO of Franklin County. We are here to help.

Anyone with bad allergies will tell you that spring is the worst time for mold.

Why is this the case?

Well, it turns out that April showers don’t just bring May flowers. Spring rain can cause mold to bloom, as moisture in the air jumpstarts its growth. 

While mold can be a detriment to your allergies, it can also make an impact on your home. So what can you do to prevent mold from spreading this spring?

• Use Fans to Create Air Flow

It’s important to get air circulating throughout your home. When there is air flow, mold never gets a chance to settle on surfaces, windows or walls. It’s recommended to use exhaust fans in the kitchen while you’re cooking and large fans in the living room, bedrooms and basement. 

• Keep Your House Dry 

Mold can’t form if there’s no moisture around. Make sure to dry clothes immediately after washing them and not leave them damp in the washing machine. Keep wet clothes and towels off the floor as well.

• Seal Any Leaks

If you notice water seeping into your house, you’re at risk for mold growth. Seal any leaks you may have, and repair any damaged gutters so that rainwater flows away from your house rather than into the attic or foundation. 

• Purify Your Air

Keeping your air purified can stop mold from ever getting traction. HEPA filter air purifiers are especially effective in filtering out mold.

Mold can be a problem for both you and your home in the spring, but with a few precautions it can be prevented. However, if you are experiencing mold problems in your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Franklin County for mitigation.  

Customer Spotlight: Craig Sullivan

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in your home, all SERVPRO of Franklin County. We are available 24/7.

When Craig Sullivan’s Union home experienced water damage, he knew just who to call. 

Sullivan saw that his basement was wet and immediately contacted his insurance company, notifying them that he wanted to use SERVPRO of Franklin County to mitigate the damage. 

A crack in the house’s foundation led to the water leaking into the basement, mainly affecting the family room. SERVPRO set up air movers and air scrubbers, as well as a floor mat drying system for the plank vinyl flooring. 

“You guys came out and got everything set up real quick,” Sullivan said. “You guys did a really good job for us.”

It didn’t take long to get the basement dried out—only about three days. Sullivan still has to have a wall repaired that was cut out to get the foundation crack fixed. 

Although it was an unfortunate circumstance, Sullivan was thankful that SERVPRO helped repair the damage quickly.

“They were prompt with their service, they paid close attention to detail, and they explained everything to us that they were going to do,” he said. “We were very thankful for the work you guys did for us.”

You can be ruined, or you can be READY.

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

Are you READY? Use technology to store your important information.

Technology can now be a vital tool in preparing for emergencies or disasters, as well as during or after to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. From common technology you already use on a day-to-day basis to taking a few extra steps to prepare, the following can help you be ready in the event of an emergency or disaster.

Store Information Online

There are many places to store important information securely online. Services like Google Drive and Dropbox offer free way to store different types of files, from a Word document to images of important documents. Ready.gov suggests saving an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and information on your pets, if necessary.

Follow the News

Stay informed by following agencies such as FEMA, local news channels, and local government on Twitter for the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation. You can also alert first responders if a rescue is needed through Twitter.

Mark Yourself Safe

The American Red Cross offers a Safe & Well check-in site to list yourself as safe or find family and friends in situations where
communication is difficult to establish. Facebook also has a feature called Safety Check that is activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you’re located in the affected area at that time.

Get in Touch

Make sure your contact information is up to date in your phone and e-mail for communication with family, friends, business contacts, and others whom you may need to get in contact with before, during, or after a disaster.

Charge Up

Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy solar-powered chargers as well.

Get an Emergency READY Profile®

SERVPRO® is proud to offer Emergency READY Profiles® (ERP) for free at ready.SERVPRO.com to help prepare you, your property, or your business for an emergency. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® for your property or 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 property or business. Put help in the palm of your hand with the Ready Plan App.

Restore Vs. Replace

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers a water damage event, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

The insurance and restoration industry have performed multiple studies that conclude restore has many advantages over replace. As a preferred mitigation vendor for most major insurance companies, we are charged with a duty to restore whenever possible.

The major advantage to restore vs. replace is cost. In almost any situation, restore saves a tremendous amount of money compared to replacement. One area where we can generate huge savings in a water loss situation is drying of hardwood floors instead of replacing them.  Even after incurring the cost of air movers, dehumidifiers and even specialize equipment usually there is a 45%-75% cost savings over replacement. Another common example would be the drying of carpet and/or drywall. Again, using air movers and dehumidifiers and following the science of drying we can often save 75%-90% over replacement cost. You can imagine how quickly these savings add up.

Another advantage of restore versus replace is time savings and business interruption savings. Drying a structure usually takes an average of three to five days. After our drying is completed, your customer should be back in their house or business right away. Back, as we like to say, "Like it never even happened." If you look at the alternative which is replace, your customer will have to wait weeks or even months to get back into their home or business while construction is going on.   This leads to expensive hotel bills for residential customers or catastrophic business interruption costs for commercial customers. Either way you are talking a great deal of money, time, and inconvenience! 

For these reasons we at SERVPRO look to restore whenever we can and whenever it makes sense.  We accomplish this by not only using our extensive training, knowledge, and resources but also by responding immediately so that the impact of the water or fire damage is reduced. We also help you mitigate your damages before they even happen with our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) and our sponsorship of the Red Cross Ready Rating.  These programs prepare you for the loss before it even occurs. If you do not have an ERP yet, you need one! Set up an appointment right away.

Handle Your Franklin County, MO Commercial Flood Damage with SERVPRO

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration.

If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage in Franklin County, MO, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.

Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration

Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.

Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply stores. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible.

Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particle board, carpets or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at the minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present.

Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning and possibly restructuring. Water damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particle board and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

Drying out the building yourself can be difficult and time consuming. Consider hiring a professional like SERVPRO of Franklin County, who can get the job done right and prevent secondary damages.

Services You Can Count On in Franklin County, MO

You can depend on SERVPRO to provide reasonable prices for commercial water damage and other services in the Franklin County, MO area. Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage, and storm damage. We also assist with mold remediation, and we're qualified to provide cleaning and building services. Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration.

Whether you require cleanup after Franklin County, MO commercial water damage or simply need a carpet cleaning, call us at 636-583-5200.

Big Freeze Update

3/20/2021 (Permalink)

No matter the size or quantity, SERVPRO is here to help.

The phones started ringing on Feb. 17, and they didn’t stop for almost two weeks. 

After a mostly mild winter, the temperatures plunging well below freezing temperatures in mid-February caused many households and businesses to be negatively impacted.

SERVPRO of Franklin County served 25 different customers over the two-week span. Five of the losses were commercial, while the other 20 were residential. 

In total, over 75,000 square feet of property was affected. 

Our crews stepped up to help serve the community and restore homes and businesses. They ended up logging over 100 hours in overtime over the two weeks, while still able to do their jobs, and do them well.

It wasn’t just our franchise that was put to the test, however. Feb. 17 created the most leads in SERVPRO history, with 3,826. In the areas that were most impacted (Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas), over 300 crews were called in to deal with more than 26,000 leads. 

The big freeze showed that SERVPRO is capable of handling any losses that come our way. 

No matter the size or quantity, SERVPRO is here to help.

Fire Suppression Foam Cleanup

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

It was 9:30pm when we received the call that a small flash fire set a sprinkler off at a nearby factory. When we arrived at 10:30pm, we estimated 2”-6” of foam covering a 10,000sf area. The room was filled with non-moveable machinery and equipment. There was no actual fire damage, and the foam was non-toxic.

Normally, we would use our truck mounted and/or portable extraction equipment. However, we quickly realized that the foam was too thick, and this would not work. Using deformer chemicals did not work. We tried several methods, such as shoveling, vacuuming, and squeegeeing, but finally found that diluting the foam with water and pushing it to submersible pumps worked best. This made for a time-consuming removal. The foam kept oozing out of surfaces and under the fixed equipment. Crews worked on removing the foam all night, and by 8am it was under control. While most areas were clear it was obvious that the foam was still oozing out and would continue for some time. With approval from management, we agreed to get the foam time to finish oozing and come back to clean the remainder.

The next day we returned and spent 3-4 hours getting the remainder of foam up. The client cleaned their own equipment, had their fire suppression system recharged and checked. After a short interruption, they would be back in production with little time lost.

While this unique situation was full of challenges, we were able to help the customer get back to production quickly.

Common Water Damage Questions

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage? Give us a call! We are here to help!

We've been in the water damage restoration business for quite some time now. Here are some of the most common questions we receive out on the job.

How does drying work?

We are trained and IICRC certified and we follow the science of drying.  The basic science is that air movers drive the moisture out of the material and into the air, the dehumidifiers than remove the moisture from the air.  We need both to make it worth.  We use moisture meters to verify that materials are drying and dry.    

Do you have to tear everything out?

That's a common thought, but no. Normally depending on the type of water, we can dry everything in place. It’s much less costly and quicker for you to dry everything in place rather than removing everything than having to have a contractor replace everything.   

If we end up having to do some tear out: we are having trouble drying this area. Normally we are successful. We are going to do a limited amount of removal to speed the drying up and the repairs will be minimal.     

How do I know is drying?

We use moisture meters to determine what is wet and how wet it is.  With the moisture meter we get a reading on unaffected material and that reading tells us what the affected material should be dried down to.  We check daily until the material has reached its goal.   

I'm really worried about mold.

Most people have that fear, probably because it’s really hyped on the news.  Mold cannot set in until after 72 hours of the water loss.  If professional drying begins before 72 hours you risk of mold is minimal.  We are highly trained to avoid mold growth. The good news is you called us right away, professional drying has begun, you have no worries.

How do I know there is not mold in the walls?

Mold is everywhere. There for sure is mold in the walls, on the floor, etc.  We want to avoid is a lot of mold.  My training assures me that there is no new mold growth from this water event.

How much electric does it take to run all this equipment?

You would be surprised how little electric everything draws.  For example, this air mover draws 1.5 amps, this dehumidifier draws 7 amps.  Normally the total additional electric used is under $50.  If you have additional concerns about this, make sure you talk to your adjuster. 

This equipment is too noisy, can I turn it off?

The only way the drying process works is to have all of the air movers and dehumidifiers on.  Turning them off could delay the drying process and it could also cause mold to develop.  You really need to keep everything on so we can get the house dried out.  If you have additional concerns about the noise, make sure to talk to your adjuster.

How much is all of this going to cost?

Charges are based on how much equipment we use and what functions we have to perform so every job is different.  Our charges are approved up front by the insurance company, that's why we can respond so quickly and get started.  When we are done, our invoice will audited by our staff and then the insurance company to insure 100% accuracy. 

Have a question we haven't answered here? Feel free to give us a call 636-583-5200. We're here to help!

Customer Spotlight: Stephen Skaggs

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Sewage backup? Give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

While most of the losses we dealt with this winter came from frozen pipes, the cold weather also resulted in some sewer backups. 

Stephen Skaggs of St. Clair had his home affected by this in late February.

“That was right after we had that really bad cold snap,” Skaggs explained. “Evidently the tree roots were suppressing any materials from getting through since they were so frozen.”

Although Skaggs was able to get help to clear the roots, the backup led to water damage in his home, causing five rooms to be affected. The water saturated the carpets, walls and linoleum flooring in the basement. 

SERVPRO of Franklin County was called in to mitigate the damage. Due to the unsanitary water, it required a lot to be torn out. Drywall, shelving, carpet and a vanity all had to be removed.

After that was completed and antimicrobial was sprayed, the drying process began. The job required five air movers in the basement family room, along with two dehumidifiers. It also called for three air movers in the bedroom, three in the workout room, three in the bathroom, three in the utility room and two in the storage room. 

Naturally, all the fans made Skaggs’ house noisy for a few days.

“I’m retired from the Army and I used to fly a lot on C-130s,” he said. “I just kept thinking this is just like being on a C-130, except you just don’t have the vibration.”

After about four days of drying, the job was complete. 

“The folks that came out were very professional,” Skaggs said. “They did an outstanding job at looking at what the problem was and they were systematic about what they did. That boils down to having good training.” 

Skaggs was also impressed by SERVPRO’s leadership throughout the job, especially by production manager Nate Gillespey and crew chief Cody Forsee.

“Nate knew specifically how to handle this because he’s had to deal with many like this. He did an outstanding job,” Skaggs said. “The crew members who I interacted with, especially Cody, were very knowledgeable about what was going on and how to fix it. They were able to accomplish everything that they needed to get done.”

But Skaggs was most pleased with how the SERVPRO of Franklin County workers went above and beyond for him after some of his door handles were accidentally removed.

“I needed the door handles back because they were unique to the house, and they went the extra mile to retrieve all them,” he said. “I’m in business myself, and you always look for people who go the extra mile. These guys go the extra mile.” 

Mitigation Requires Quick Action

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

If your business experiences fire or water damage, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

The faster SERVPRO of Franklin County arrives on-site to perform fire, smoke, and soot cleanup and restoration, the better the results— including lower claim costs.

Within four hours of a loss notification, SERVPRO of Franklin County will be on-site to help ensure a fire damage is handled properly by utilizing the following services:

Structural Cleaning

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. SERVPRO® will pretest to determine the extent of damage, then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found within the structure.

Contents Cleaning

All the restorable contents in the affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery. SERVPRO can provide wet or dry-cleaning services. Additionally, all other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, and much more. Finally, SERVPRO of Franklin County can provide an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items.

Deodorization

SERVPRO® of Franklin County provides specialized services that rid your insured’s home or place of business of offensive odors left behind by fire or smoke damage. We do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; we seek out the sources of the odor and remove them.  

If your business experiences fire or water damage, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

We’re here to help 24/7, 7 days a week: (636) 583-5200.

Hidden Water, Hidden Mold

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Spring rains can bring water damage. Be careful not to let hidden water damage happen.

If water is not quickly and properly mitigated, it can cause significant damage to a home and cause interruption for businesses. While water damage can be costly to repair, there is one issue that should be of your greatest concern – mold.  Nearly all building materials, like wood, drywall, and flooring materials, are porous and therefore retain water. This retained water can cause the materials to break down, warp, or cause mold damage.

It can only take a few days after water damage for mold to form.  Therefore, it is important to take the proper steps to begin the cleanup process. We recommend starting the process between as soon as possible, but after 48 hours, it can become more difficult to salvage property.

The most effective way to prevent mold from forming is by calling SERVPRO of Franklin County as soon as you experience water damage. Once we receive a call, we are onsite within four hours to begin the cleanup process.

After our technicians do an inspection and damage assessment, the water extraction process begins. This step removes most of the water. We use powerful pumps and truck-mounted vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from your property. Once the excess water has been removed, the floors and walls may appear dry, but a quick inspection will reveal they are wet to the touch. You can learn more about our entire process by clicking here.

We use air movers, dehumidifiers and monitor the drying process so you know that your home or business has been properly dried and will not suffer any secondary damage.

We are available 24/7, 7 days a week. If you experience water damage, give us a call. We’ll be there fast with the help you need.

What To Do When Your Franklin County, MO Home Suffers From Water Damage

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

No matter the size of your loss, SERVPRO of Franklin County is "Here to Help."

When a major storm passes close to the house, the home may suffer water damage that is difficult to repair. There are many things a family can do to begin repairing any destruction, but a certified professional will likely be needed to get rid of any serious health or structural threats. Contaminated storm surges or floods can carry pathogens and become a breeding ground for mold

The main reason why a home is sensitive to water damage is because moisture is difficult to detect once the floods recede. Standing liquids can encourage microbial growth within 24 hours and can saturate all kinds of textiles and seep through drywall. Moisture may collect behind the walls, where mold and bacteria may multiply out of sight. If a family reacts quickly enough, clothes and furniture may be saved. However, people must be careful when entering a building that has recently been flooded. Exposure to wildlife and contaminated liquids can result in serious injury.

Before entering a home affected by water damage, make sure the electrical power is shut off.  Snakes, reptiles or rodents may be hiding under debris and could lash out and bite suddenly. To protect against wildlife and airborne contaminants, wear protective clothing from head to toe, including a vapor respirator, rubber gloves and eye protection. Also, wear thick boots that can withstand puncturing and animal bites.

SERVPRO of Franklin County can quickly identify what items in the home are compromised by water damage. Normally, anything that is porous may need to be discarded if it has come in contact with contaminated fluids. These items, like mattresses, box springs, pillows and particle board, trap more moisture than other materials and foster the growth of microbes. We will be able to track down any pockets of excess moisture and remove them. Technicians can locate these pockets of moisture using equipment that measures the moisture in hidden pockets and behind tile and other materials that may not feel wet on the outside.  When these moisture pockets are found, the technicians will expose them to air by removing any drywall or other materials in the way.

Our highly trained technicians are ready to respond immediately to flood or water damage at your Union property. We have the experience, expertise, and training to restore your home or business quickly and properly. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment to find the water and remove it as quickly as possible. Our technicians will monitor and document the drying process to ensure your property is back to normal.

Please follow our tips outlined in the Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide to protect yourself and your property.

Do You Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-520

What to Watch For When the Weather Thaws

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Everyone loves when the weather warms up following frigid temperatures, but it’s not always sunshine and rainbows. 

During a thawing, many problems can arise in your home and property. Here are some things to look out for during a winter thaw.

• Pipes Bursting

You won’t have to look hard for this one. When the weather warms, frozen pipes can be liable to burst. This is because ice has more volume than water, so when water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and bursts out of the pipe. 

If you do have a pipe burst, first and foremost it’s imperative to shut off the water supply. Your next step should be to call professionals. The professionals at SERVPRO can help mitigate any water damage that might have occurred, and a plumber will be necessary to fix the burst pipes. 

• Gutters

During the winter, your gutters might have accumulated debris, which could cause water to flow past the drain spouts and into the side of your home. Clear your gutters so that water can properly drain through your drainpipes and away from your home. 

• Water Seeping In

If you notice water that has gotten into your home (particularly the basement), it needs to be addressed immediately. If you want to go the DIY route, a sump pump can be used to pump out the water. The professionals at SERVPRO can also be brought in to help deal with water damage.

• Driving Safety

While driving on frozen, snowy roads can be dangerous, it can also be dangerous after it melts. Be on the lookout for slush or water on the roads. Water can cause roads to be slippery, and slush can also create dangerous conditions by impacting braking and changing lanes, while also potentially obscuring your vision while you’re driving 

Maintenance on your vehicle might also be necessary. It’s recommended that windshield wipers be changed every six months, so it might be to switch them out. Also, snow and salty roads can cause corrosion for your car, so get it washed. 

Be sure to check your brakes, tires and fluids while you’re at it. Your brakes and tires might have been damaged by driving on roads with poor conditions, and fluid levels could be low after the winter. 

• Plants and Gardens

A mid-winter thaw can be dangerous for plants and gardens, as they can begin sprouting too early. While there’s not a lot you can do to prevent this, you can protect especially fragile plants by covering them with snow or mulch. Also, you can protect your plants and garden by avoiding walking over them as much as possible. Wearing snowshoes in the winter can spread your weight out and prevent damage. 

SERVPRO: Your Experts in Commercial Water Damage in Franklin County, MO

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

We're here to help. Call SERVPRO of Franklin County 24/7.

Handle Your Franklin County, MO Commercial Water Damage with SERVPRO

If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage in Franklin County, MO, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.

Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration
Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.

Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply stores. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible.

Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particle board, carpets or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at the minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present.

Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning and possibly restructuring. Water damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particle board and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

Services You Can Count On in Franklin County, MO
You can depend on SERVPRO to provide reasonable prices for commercial water damage and other services in the Franklin County, MO area. Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage, and storm damage. We also assist with mold remediation, and we're qualified to provide cleaning and building services. Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration.

Whether you require cleanup after Franklin County, MO commercial water damage or simply need a carpet cleaning, call us at 636-583-5200.

How to Deal With Extreme Cold

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Extreme cold? Use these tips to stay safe.

With our area experiencing extreme cold with temperatures near zero degrees, it’s vital to protect yourself from frigid weather. 

While most of us try to stay inside as often as possible when there’s below-freezing temperatures, there are times where we’re forced to go outside. If you do find yourself having to go outside into freezing temperatures, follow these steps in order to stay warm.

• Wear Loose Layers

Dressing appropriately during extreme cold is the most important step you can take. Wearing loose layers of clothing is smart because what keeps you warm is the insulated air that circulates between each layer. Avoid tight clothing, as it reduces blood circulation and cuts off flow to the extremities. 

• Protect Ears, Face, Hands and Feet

These are the most important parts of the body to cover, as they are often the most exposed. Hats, gloves, snow boots, extra pairs of socks, and ski masks/face coverings are all vital. 

• Keep Moving

Body circulation is the key to warmth. You can wear plenty of layers, but if you’re not moving then you will still be cold. Stay in constant motion to keep your blood pumping.

• Drink Warm Fluids and Eat 

Soup, coffee, hot tea, hot chocolate are great choices on cold days. Eating extra healthy fats during the winter can increase metabolism, which in turn heats the body, according to Columbia Health. 

• Check Road Safety

Freezing temperatures can cause dangerous road conditions. If you have to drive somewhere, be sure to check the local news or MoDOT’s website before you go out. 

• Be Aware of Signs of Hypothermia

Prolonged exposure to the cold can result in hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature. Hypothermia can occur when your body temperature falls below 95 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s important to monitor yourself and be aware when your body is cold. Check the CDC's guide for recognizing hypothermia to help understand if you or someone else is experiencing this affliction. 

Why You Should Make a Home Emergency Kit

2/6/2021 (Permalink)

Stay safe in an emergency and keep these items on your home emergency kit.

With the craziness going on in the world right now, we need to be prepared for anything that comes our way. 

If you experienced a power outage in the middle of the winter, what would you do? Would you be ready? 

If you don’t feel prepared, it might be time for you to create a home emergency kit. Here are some items that should be in your kit.

• Non-Perishable Food

Canned foods like fish, beans and other vegetables are ideal choices (just remember to have a manual can opener). Some other options are nut butters, dried fruits and vegetables, nuts, jerky and grains. 

• Water for Drinking and Cooking

If you lose access to your water, it will be crucial to have a backup plan. Having a five gallon water jug (or having multiple  jugs) could come in handy for both hydration and cooking. 

• Portable Heater  

Even without electricity, there are still options to heat your home. Portable heaters— whether they are powered by propane, natural gas or kerosene—are crucial to have in case of an outage. 

• Candles, Matches or Lighters

Without power, candles will be necessary for lighting. Matches or multi-purpose lighters will come in handy to light the candles and to make a fire.

• Flashlights and Fresh Batteries

While most of us rely on our phones as flashlights, a traditional flashlight will be beneficial for light in the case of an outage. Make sure you have new batteries just in case the flashlight goes out. 

• Portable Phone Chargers

If you don’t have access to electricity, you can’t charge your cell phone. However, if you have pre-charged portable chargers in your emergency kit, you can keep your phone battery from dying. 

• Important Medicines

If you don’t want to be fumbling through the dark for your medicine, keeping some in your emergency kit could be a smart move. 

Winter Weather Hazards

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

If your home or business suffers from damage due to ice dams, frozen pipes, or a heating system fire, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

Winter weather leads to issues for thousands of people and their homes each year. Since cold weather can cause issues that don’t occur the rest of the year, it’s important to be vigilant about any problem that could arise. 

Here are some potential problems that should be on your radar this winter.

• Heating System Fire

While most winter fires take place in the kitchen, heating systems can also be a culprit. Thousands of residential fires occur each year due to failure of home heating systems. Fireplaces, chimneys and chimney connectors are responsible for half of the fires. That’s why it’s important to have your heating system checked regularly, especially if you have a gas or electric furnace or heat pump.

Space heaters also cause many fires in the winter, and in total cause 25,000 per year. Space heaters should never be left on unattended, especially after going to sleep. 

Being aware of the potential hazards of your heating system can keep you fire-free this winter. 

2. Frozen Pipes

Pipes freezing and bursting can be a nightmare for your home. 

Frozen pipes cause an estimated $400-$500 million in damage annually. To avoid adding to that number, it’s crucial to take preventive measures. Drain water from pipes that are likely to freeze and disconnect any outside hoses. 

If you are still worried that your pipes might freeze, you can also place a 60-watt bulb in areas you’re concerned with. Just make sure none of the materials near the bulb are combustible. 

To keep pipes from freezing, your thermostat should be kept around the same temperature at all times, and your house temperature should never fall below 55 degrees. 

3. Ice Dams

While ice dams can be pretty to look at, they can be a nuisance to deal with. Since ice dams are caused by a lack of uniform roof surface temperatures, this problem must be addressed if you are experiencing ice dams. Making your ceiling and attic air-tight, adding insulation and installing heating cables to the roof are all steps that can create uniform temperatures. 

If you are already dealing with ice dams, you can take a long-handled aluminum roof rake to scrape off snow from the roof. And if you’re experiencing leaking, you can set up a box fan in the attic and aim it at the bottom of the roof where water is leaking in. This will freeze the water and stop the leak.

4. Carbon Monoxide

Cold temperatures can often lead to problems with carbon monoxide in the home. Sadly, 430 people die annually from carbon monoxide poisoning, while approximately 50,000 are hospitalized. 

Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs due to faulty heating systems. Whether it’s unvented space heaters, malfunctioning furnaces, clogged chimneys or other heating system issues, it’s important to make sure your system is functioning properly.

That’s why you should have your furnace and fireplace inspected before each winter. In addition, carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in your home (if you don’t already have them), and the batteries should be checked and replaced regularly. 

Also, make sure that if you’re going to use space heaters they are properly ventilated.

How to Protect Your Home Against Flooding

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage? Call SERVPRO of Franklin County

Franklin County has experienced many flooding incidents in recent years. Since most homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to know how to protect your home and your finances in the event of a flood. 

If your home is located in a floodplain, your lender should have already mandated you to purchase flood insurance. If you are not in a floodplain but still believe your home is susceptible to flooding, you should purchase additional coverage. 

Regardless of your coverage, there are many things you can do to help protect your house from flooding and reduce potential damage. 

• Seal Any Cracks in Foundation

Masonry caulk or mortar can be used to seal any gaps in your house’s foundation that allows water to get in.

• Apply Coatings And Sealants

Sealants can be used on your foundation, doorways, ceilings and walls to keep water from penetrating your home.

• Buy A Sump Pump

Sump pumps can be great ways to drain water from your house. However, in the case of a power outage, it’s better to get a battery-powered sump pump so you can use it whenever you need it. 

• Install a Flood Sensor

Many home security systems offer flood sensors as add-ons. These can be vital in detecting small leaks before they turn into huge problems that cost you loads of money.

• Install Sewer/Septic Line Check Valves

These valves cause waste to only flow one way, protecting against sewage flooding your home. 

• Have Your Lawn Graded Away From Your Home

If your lawn is tilted toward your house, rain water can pool around the house and potentially seep in. By grading your lawn away from your house, you can ensure that water doesn’t flow inside.

• Move Important Items to Higher Ground

Keeping your prized possessions in the basement or on the first floor may turn out to be a costly mistake. Move your most expensive or sentimental items to a higher story or the attic to prevent them from being damaged in a flood. 

Customer Spotlight: Mary Helen Lemerck

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

If your home has water damage from flooding, a leaking pipe, or other source, you need the company that can respond immediately and has the expertise

When Mary Helen Lemerck’s St. Clair home was impacted by water damage, she enlisted the professionals at SERVPRO of Franklin County to help restore her home.

“We had a leak in the air conditioner that we didn’t know about,” Lemerck explained. “It had seeped through the unit and it had softened the particle board underneath.”

The drain line in the air conditioner had clogged, causing Lemerck’s floor and subfloor to be damaged.

Mary called her agent, Bill Chase of State Farm in St. Clair, for assistance. Chase recommended she use SERVPRO of Franklin County to perform the restoration.

“I was so glad that we’ve got a good insurance man that went to bat for us,” Lemerck said.

SERVPRO cleaned the mold in the flooring that had grown from the water damage, then put in a new vinyl plank floor. Some of the wood subfloor also had to be replaced.

“The floor was getting ready to fall out from underneath us,” Lemerk said. “To do the job properly, they had to take out the particle board underneath the unit and replace underneath the heating unit and in the hallway. They did a perfect job on that.”

The SERVPRO crew made it a point to make sure none of the drying equipment caused any trip hazards for Lemerck, who has had health problems in the past. 

“I really appreciated that,” Lemerck said.

Lemerck said she would recommend others to use SERVPRO if they were in need of restoration service.

“You guys did a great, great job,” she said.

If your home has water damage from flooding, a leaking pipe, or other source, you need the company that can respond immediately and has the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. We use advanced water damage inspection and extraction equipment to help find the moisture and to remove it as quickly as possible. Our highly trained technicians will monitor and document the drying process so that you know your property is back to normal. 

Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Remembering Six Years Ago – The Flood of 2015

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

If you need help restoring your home or business, we are always here to help. (636) 583-5200

While you might believe that winter is a safe time from floods, there is always the chance that history may repeat itself. During the new year flooding event in 2015, we saw many flooded homes in the historic event. We were there to help our neighbors in Franklin County, MO then, and we are even more ready to help now for the 2021 year. We have added more equipment, vehicles, completed more training and even added onto our building!

What can you do if history repeats itself? You can always prepare with the SERVPRO ERP. Give our office a call and we can help get you started.

Flood water can be one of the most frightening problems to face. Preventing water from entering your home or business is difficult, if not impossible during high water flooding events. However, if your home or business does face flooding damage, it’s best to follow these tips:

• Be on the lookout for wild animals, including snakes. Floodwaters tend to uproot them from their natural areas.
• While cleaning up, wear protective gear such as boots and rubber gloves. The water is contaminated and can be considered hazardous.
• Discard food items and drinking water if it has come into contact with the flood waters. This includes canned goods and bottled water.
• Remove all soaked and dirty materials and debris, including wet insulation and drywall, residual mud and soil, furniture, appliances, clothing and bedding.
• Follow the maxim: When in doubt, throw it out!
• Remove any standing water and dry out the flooded area. Once the water is gone, use airmovers and a dehumidifier to dry out the area.
• Disinfect - A disinfectant will help to kill bacteria that may be present.
• Inhibit mold growth - After applying a disinfectant, apply an anti-mold spray to the area while wearing a mask for protection.
• Dispose of damaged items - Check with the city’s waste management department to find out where to recycle chemicals such as paint and other toxic liquids, as well as electronics.
• Flood clean-up after high water ravages a home or business is typically a burdensome and demanding task, this is just a few steps of an extensive process. It may also involve some danger, so safety concerns must take precedence.

Cleaning up after a flooding event can be a daunting task, that’s why it’s good to give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call. We are trained to handle these events and can make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you need help restoring your home or business, we are always here to help. (636) 583-5200

What to Put In Your Car Emergency Kit

1/24/2021 (Permalink)

Keeping an emergency kit in your car is a good way to be ready for whatever happens, especially during the cold snowy months.

You never want to be in a situation where you’re stranded without any supplies. That’s why it’s important to always have an emergency kit in your vehicle. 

Emergency kits should contain a wide variety of materials. While it’s important to customize your kit for your personal needs, here are some of the items we recommend for you to carry.

• An Inflated Spare Tire

If you get a flat tire, you will obviously need a new one to replace it with. Include a jack in the kit so that you can change out the tire. 

• Jumper Cables

If you’re stranded somewhere and your car dies, jumper cables are essential to get your vehicle up and running again. 

• First Aid Kit

If you or one of your passengers is injured, having a first aid kit handy is critical. Some recommended items to keep in your first aid kit are gauze, bandages, antibiotic ointment, tape, bandages, scissors, aspirin and hydrocortisone. Fill your first aid kit to fit your specific needs. 

4. Car Escape Tools

Getting trapped in a vehicle is a nightmare scenario, so that’s why you need to have tools that will help get you or your passengers out of that situation. Seatbelt cutters window breakers are cheap and can potentially be life-saving. 

5. Non-Perishable Food

If you’re going to be stuck for an extended period of time, it’s important to have some food on hand. Snacks like unsalted nuts, dried fruit and hard candy are ideal choices to keep in your car.

6. Drinking Water

Hydration is also critical. Keeping some bottled water in your car could pay off when you need it. 

7. Winter Weather Items

When you’re dealing with extreme winter conditions, you’ll want your emergency kit to be filled with items that will help deal with the climate. Some items to keep on hand are blankets, warm clothing,  a snow brush, shovel and windshield washer fluid. 

8. Flashlight

Most of us rely on the flashlight on our phones, but what would you do if your phone died? A handheld flashlight could prove to be a vital piece of equipment in your emergency kit. 

The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

While carbon monoxide poisoning is a scary thought, it is entirely preventable.

When the temperature drops in the winter, your furnace has the potential to become a silent killer. 

Oil and gas burning furnaces produce carbon monoxide (CO). CO is an odorless, invisible, poisonous gas that kills at least 430 people each year and sends approximately 50,000 to the hospital. 

Breathing in carbon monoxide fumes prevents the body from using oxygen properly, which can damage the brain, heart and other organs. Breathing in carbon monoxide can lead to a variety of symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and shortness of breath.

People with pre-existing health issues are at greater risk to harm from CO. Children, pregnant women and older adults are also at greater risk.

Where Does Carbon Monoxide Come From?

The most common source of CO poisoning is unvented space heaters in the home. Instead of venting the gases outdoors, they are vented into the room. A space heater that is not installed properly or isn’t working correctly can release CO and use up much of the oxygen in the room.  

Space heaters aren’t the only sources of carbon monoxide, however. Other common sources of carbon monoxide include:

• Malfunctioning cooking appliances
• Clogged chimney
• Malfunctioning water heater
• Malfunctioning oil, wood, gas, or coal furnaces
• Malfunctioning gas clothes dryer
• Wood burning fireplace, gas log burner, or any unvented space heater
• Gas or fuel-burning appliances in cabins or campers, barbecue grills, pool or spa heaters, or ceiling-mounted heating units
• Fires

How Can Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Be Prevented?

While carbon monoxide poisoning is a scary thought, it is entirely preventable. 

First, you should have your furnace and fireplace inspected before each winter. CO detectors should be installed in your home, and the batteries should be checked and replaced regularly.

Only use fuel-burning space heaters in well-ventilated areas. If possible, use electrical space heaters, as they don’t pose any danger of CO poisoning. When using a gas-powered generator for electricity, be sure to keep it a safe distance away from the home. 

When it comes to heating your home, it’s vital to be aware of the risks of carbon monoxide. Neglecting your heating system can lead to heartbreak and tragedy for your family. Maintaining your heating system will ensure your family’s safety.

Affordable Carpet Cleaning in Union, MO

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County offers professional and affordable carpet cleaning for your home or business.

While it’s completely possible to get affordable carpet cleaning, to some extent, you can expect to get what you pay for. By hiring a company that is not certified through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), you may find yourself spending more.

For example, a cheap crew might do the job for less, but they are not going to be as thorough, and they may even cause problems of their own with overwatering or poor soil extraction. In this case, the carpet will accrue new soils much faster, or may retain much of the soil the crew was supposed to remove. Worse yet, if excess water is left behind, it can possibly promote the spread of mold and other microbes, both of which can risk the health of those living in the home.

IICRC certified technicians know how to do the job right the first time, and with sophisticated professional equipment and methodology, the carpeting will be clean and ready to withstand many months of enjoyment before it needs to be cleaned again.

The SERVPRO of Franklin County staff is highly trained in property damage restoration including carpet, tile, and air duct cleaning. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

For Professional and Affordable Carpet Cleaning... Call Today – (636) 583-5200

How to Prevent Ice Dams

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Does your home have water damage from an ice dam or another source? Give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

Icicles hanging off the eaves of the roof can create beautiful scenery on a winter day, but those frozen crystals can cause some ugly problems for your home. 

Icicles are formed by the combination of snow-covered roofs and freezing weather. These conditions are what leads to ice dams—ridges of ice that form at the edge of the roof which prevent melting snow/water from draining.

Dams can be a real pain in the ice. 

They can tear off gutters, loosen shingles and cause water to back up, resulting in water pouring into the house. This can lead to paint peeling, floors warping and ceilings getting stained or sagged. 

Moisture entering the home from ice dams can also cause respiratory issues for your family, resulting from mold and mildew growth.

So what can be done to prevent these damn...err..dams?

• Clear the Roof

Instead of waiting for warm weather to solve the problem, you can take matters into your own hands.

The first short-term move is to stop any leaking. 

You can set up a box fan in the attic and aim it at the bottom of the roof where water is leaking in. This will freeze the water and stop the leak.

Another effective option is taking a long-handled aluminum roof rake to scrape off snow. 

You can also de-ice your roof with pantyhose.

Seriously. 

By filling the leg of a pair of panty hose with a calcium chloride ice melter, you can melt through the ice and snow to create water flow. Lay the hose so it crosses the ice dam and overhangs the gutter.

• Uniform Roof Temperatures 

Ice dams are caused by nonuniform roof surface temperatures. 

For dams to form, the top of the roof must be above 32 degrees, while lower surfaces are below freezing.  

When the snow on the top of the roof melts, water flows down to the bottom of the roof and freezes, creating the dam. 

In most cases, the reason for the lack of uniform roof temperatures is due to heat from the house warming the roof.  

One way to reduce heat escaping is by adding insulation. This will make the top surface temperature of the roof closer to surrounding attic temperatures, creating more uniformity. 

This step should come after making the ceiling air tight so that no warm, moist air can flow from the house into the attic. For an unsealed attic hatch or whole-house fan, you can use weather-stripped caps made from foil-faced foam board held together with aluminum tape to seal.

Heating cables can also create uniform roof temperatures. By heating the roof from the outside instead of blowing in cold air from the inside this tactic can equalize your roof’s temperature. 

• More Solutions

There are several additional tactics you can take to solve your ice dam issue. 

Double check that the ducts in your house connected to the kitchen, bathroom and dryer vents all lead outdoors through the roof or walls, but not through the soffit. 

Seal and insulate ducts by spreading fiber-reinforced mastic on the joints of HVAC ducts and exhaust ducts, and cover them with R-5 or R-6 foil-faced fiberglass.

Recessed lights should be replaced with insulated contact (IC) rated fixtures, as old-style lights can’t be insulated without creating a fire hazard. 

Use caulk to seal around electrical cables and vent pipes with a fire-stop sealant. You should also look for spots where light shines up from below or the insulation is stained black by dirt. 

Bridging the gap between the chimney and house framing with L-shaped steel flashing that’s kept in place with unbroken beads of a fire-stop sealant is another possible remedy. 

How to Deal With Frozen Pipes

1/9/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes? Call SERVPRO of Franklin County

At SERVPRO of Franklin County, we often see an increase in water losses during the winter. A major culprit of these losses are frozen pipes. 

When the water inside the pipes freeze, its molecules expand, which causes a blockage of ice that prevents unfrozen water from passing through. When the frozen pipe begins to thaw, the pressure from the water can cause the pipe to burst. 

How Can I Tell My Pipes Are Frozen? 

One of the most common signs that you are dealing with frozen pipes is when you turn on your faucet and no water comes out (similarly, if you flush your toilet and it doesn’t refill). If this happens, you should check your water source to make sure it’s still turned on and that a leak isn’t occurring. 

Another tell-tale sign of frozen pipes is when your water line is coated in frost or is bulging.

If you know that your pipes are frozen, you can either choose to address the issue yourself or call in professionals. 

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes cause an estimated $400-$500 million in damage annually. To avoid adding to that total, there are several steps you can take.

When the weather gets cold, you should drain water from pipes that are likely to freeze, such as sprinkler and swimming pool water supply lines. Outside hoses should also be disconnected and drained, and indoor valves supplying these access points must be closed.

On frigid days, let your faucets drip cold water. Having the water drip out will make it harder for the water in the pipes to freeze. Your thermostat should also be kept around the same temperature at all times, and your house temperature should never fall below 55 degrees. Garage doors should also be kept shut to protect water lines. 

If you are worried about your pipes freezing, you can also place a 60-watt bulb in the areas you’re concerned with. Just make sure none of the materials near the bulb are combustible. 

What If My Pipes Are Already Frozen? 

If you realize your pipes have frozen, the first step is to keep your faucet open. This will help with thawing and allow for moving water to flow through the pipe. 

You can also apply heat to the specific area of the pipe that is frozen. You can do this by wrapping an electronic heating pad around the pipe or heating the area with a hair dryer. Using towels soaked in hot water can help, too. 

Keep applying heat until water flow returns to normal. After the pipe has been thawed, turn on other faucets around the house to make sure you don’t have any more frozen pipes. 

If the pipe is inside an exterior wall, you should immediately call a professional contractor. It is likely that a hole will need to be cut in the wall toward the inside of the house to allow the pipes to be exposed to warmer air. 

Frozen pipes can be a catastrophic problem for your home, but taking proactive measures can help you address the problem before it even starts.

5 Winter Home Heating Safety Tips

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

• Be Aware of Flammable Materials 

Keep anything that burns easily at least three feet away from fireplaces, wood stoves, furnaces and space heaters. Fires often spread past its origin point because the heat source was too close to something flammable. Make sure nothing is close to your heat sources to prevent a fire from spreading.  

• Service Your Heating System Annually

Hiring a professional to inspect and clean your heating system and chimneys can help ensure your safety. These checks should be done annually. You should also be active in checking the areas around the furnace and boiler.

• Don’t Leave Space Heaters Unattended

25,000 house fires and more than 300 deaths are caused each year by space heaters. Never keep space heaters on when no one is around or while you are sleeping. Space heaters should be plugged directly into a wall, as extension cords or power strips can overheat and cause a fire. 

• Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Monthly 

According to a study by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the first month of the year is the worst for carbon monoxide poisoning. House fires are also common after the holidays. It’s extremely important to regularly check that all your detectors have working batteries. 

• Fireplace Safety 

Keep a screen over your fireplace to stop sparks from flying out. Let fire ashes cool before putting them into any covered, metal container. Also, ashes should never be kept in plastic containers. Keep all containers of ashes a safe distance away from your home.

“Like it never even happened.”

12/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County will be ready to help make your Franklin County, MO property damage “Like it never even happened.”

Your disaster may not always be fire and water related, but we are are still Here to Help® at SERVPRO of Franklin County when it comes to other situations.

We also provide services for biohazard, crime scene cleanup, and vandalism. These are services you may never think of until a related disaster strikes you or your business. Equipped with the knowledge, experience, and training, SERVPRO of Franklin County will start helping the moment you call.

Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. Our first focus is always safety. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.

When disaster strikes, make sure you have experienced professionals on the line. No matter how big or small, SERVPRO of Franklin County will be ready to help make your Franklin County, MO property damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Donates Vehicle Cleanings to First Responders

12/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County is proud to be assisting local first responders stay safe during the pandemic by offering free disinfectant cleanings.

When COVID-19 struck our world, we at SERVPRO of Franklin County set out to do our parts in helping combat the virus. 

That’s why we decided to sanitize each Franklin County first responder department’s vehicles free of charge.

“We wanted to help keep our first responders safe from COVID,” said SERVPRO of Franklin County owner Jerry Alvey. “We know how important it is to keep them healthy, because they’re the ones who keep us safe and healthy. They do so much for all of us, so we decided to lend them a helping hand.”

Since COVID-19 took off in the U.S. in March, SERVPRO has cleaned 303 police vehicles, 220 fire trucks and 161 ambulances. In total, we have cleaned 582 First Responder vehicles in Franklin County. 

“We are very proud of our efforts to make a positive impact on our first responders,” Alvey said. “We felt like it’s the least we could do after all they do for us.” 

We have also helped countless businesses disinfect their workplaces when they’ve had contact with COVID. 

SERVPRO of Franklin County is honored to have contributed to helping our area stay safe during this difficult year. We will continue to do our part to ensure safe environments for homes, businesses and first responders.

Customer Spotlight: Gary Dixon

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County is "Here to Help" with your water and fire damage emergencies 24/7, 7 days a week. Give us a call.

Going on vacation is supposed to be a relaxing time to get away. 

But relaxation can quickly turn to stress when finding out something is going wrong back at home.

Unfortunately for Marthasville native Gary Dixon, that’s exactly what happened when he got word his house had sustained water damage. 

His new dishwasher had been leaking for several days.

“It all started from a supply line going through my new dishwasher,” Dixon said. “It was installed two weeks before we went on vacation. Who knows why it started leaking.”

Fortunately, his daughter was checking in on the house when she noticed the leak and shut off the water.

But the damage was still significant. 

The hardwood floor in the kitchen buckled and the cabinets were damaged. The basement workshop was also affected, as the insulation had to be replaced. 

The kitchen required a dehumidifier, an air scrubber and some air movers for drying. The basement workshop wasn’t as badly affected, but still required a dehumidifier, an air scrubber and a few fans. 

 The job took five days from start to finish.

“(SERVPRO of Franklin County owner) Jerry (Alvey) had his people work fast,” Dixon said. They finished quicker than he estimated.”

Dixon was pleased with how SERVPRO of Franklin County was able to help restore his home. 

“I would definitely recommend others to use you guys,” he said. “Nobody wants to have something like this happen, but I’m glad you guys were able to help us out.” 

Whether you’re at home or on vacation, SERVPRO is here to help restore your house when things go awry. 

Holiday Season or House Fire Season?

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

For many, the winter holidays are the best time of the year. With family gatherings, light displays and gift exchanges, it’s easy to see why people love it.

But did you know that December is the most likely month to have a house fire?

This holiday season, we at SERVPRO want to make sure you and your loved ones stay safe. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that the holidays will be filled with cheer instead of nightmares. 

1. Tree Safety
   
   According to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year between 2014-2018. These fires caused an average of two deaths, 14 injuries and $10 million in direct property damage annually.
   
   It’s important to keep your tree far away from any heat source, such as fireplaces, radiators, space heaters or candles. It’s also necessary to water your tree frequently, as a fire burns more quickly on a dry tree than a well-watered tree.
   
   After Christmas, it’s best to get rid of your tree immediately, as there’s a greater chance of forgetting to water it once the holiday is over.
   
   
2. Dangerous Decorations
   
   While we often think of Christmas trees as the biggest cause for fires as the biggest cause for fires during the holiday season, decorations can actually be more hazardous.
   
   U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 770 home structure fires per year that began with decorations in 2014-2018, according to the NFPA. These fires caused an annual average of two civilian fire deaths, 30 civilian fire injuries and $11 million in direct property damage.
   
   You can avoid one of these incidents by choosing flame resistant or retardant decorations.
   
   When you’re putting up your lights, connect no more than three strands together, or a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. If you notice any strings of lights with worn or broken cords, make sure to replace them. 
   
   After the holidays are over, bring your lights inside to avoid a potential accident and to make your bulbs last longer.
   
   
3. Careful Cooking
   
   Besides Thanksgiving day, Christmas is the peak for home cooking fires. We know you don’t want to contribute to this statistic, so be sure to pay careful attention while you cook.
   
   If you haven’t replaced your smoke detectors in a long time, remember to check your batteries. Also, be aware of where your fire extinguisher is located.
   
   
4. Caution With Candles 
   
   Candles caused a staggering 21 house fires per day from 2014-2018.
   
   Candle fires take place most often in December, followed by January. Christmas is the peak day for candle fires with almost three times the daily average.
   
   When you light candles, make sure they’re far away from anything flammable. Sixty percent of candle fires start when the candle is close to furniture, mattresses, curtains or decoration.
   
   To reduce the risk of a fire, you can use battery-powered candles. 

If your home or business experiences fire or water damage, know that SERVPRO of Franklin County is "Here to Help" even during the holidays. Give us a call 24/7: 636-583-5200.

How to Keep Your Office Safe During COVID-19

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

This year, SERVPRO of Franklin County has helped many local businesses sanitize their buildings after they were exposed to COVID-19.

Having your business exposed to COVID-19 requires a deep cleaning, which can be both time-consuming and costly.

But by taking some important steps, you can reduce the risk of COVID spreading throughout your workplace.

Here are some precautions you can take to keep your business safe during these dangerous times. 

Clean Office Space Daily

Since contracting COVID-19 is so easy, offices should be cleaned at the end of each day to prevent the virus from potentially spreading. 

The easiest way to disinfect your office is by cleaning floors and surfaces with bleach and water. The CDC recommends using five tablespoons of bleach (1/3 cup) per gallon of water, or four teaspoons of bleach per quart of water. 

Disinfecting wipes like Clorox can also be effective in sanitizing surfaces. Just be sure not to mix cleaning products together, as they can create dangerous (and even deadly) fumes. 

The most important surfaces to clean are the ones which are touched most often. Door knobs, handles, buttons on electronics, sinks, toilets and office phones should all be disinfected regularly.

According to the CDC, COVID-19 can last on surfaces for hours and in some cases several days, so it’s necessary to sanitize your office daily to keep workers safe.  

Air Filters

The quality of your office’s air circulation has never been more important. It’s vital that the ventilation, filtration systems and plumbing work efficiency to remove pathogens.

When it comes to filtration, the key number is minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV). The rating system is scored from 1-16, with 16 being the best possible score. It’s recommended for offices to have a MERV of 13. 

Conduct assessments of your HVAC system, replace air filters frequently and increase circulation of outdoor air as much as possible by opening windows and doors.

 Increase Precautionary Measures

The standard CDC guidelines of COVID prevention should apply in your office. Social distancing should take place whenever possible. If it’s necessary to be in close quarters with others, masks should be worn. 

Hand sanitizer, cleaning wipes and extra masks should be readily available for all employees.

Educate Employees

Your business has likely already had conversations about necessary procedures to combat COVID, but it’s important to re-instill them. 

Signs posted in the office can be an effective way to drive home the message. Reminders about office guidelines can help prevent safety quality from slipping.   

Following these steps can help your business stay healthy and safe during the pandemic. However, if your business has a positive case, SERVPRO of Franklin County can help you sanitize and get you back in business. Give us a call 24/7: 636-583-5200.

Have Water Damage In Your Franklin County, MO Home?

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

It is our goal to be "Here to Help" when our neighbors here in Franklin County, MO need us. Whether it be the next great flood or simply an overflowed

A water damage restoration service is the kind of professional that no one wants to call, but when they are needed, it is important not to delay. Homeowners know that moisture is often the enemy, capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem. No matter how moisture gets into the building, the response should be the same. Bring in a certified firm as soon as possible to clean the home, dry it, and ensure there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, don’t try to handle it on your own. Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill. A certified water damage restoration service not only has the tools to eliminate the moisture, they have the protective equipment to remain free from harm.

Restoration technicians have a lot of technology at their disposal. These include powerful vacuums and pumping systems, high volume air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and several detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats. While the technicians work on the building, disposing of compromised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live, and a business safe to work in; any other cleaning method is a dangerous gamble.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

We are water damage restoration specialists and are ready to restore your Union home back to pre-water damage condition. We quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment. SERVPRO of Franklin County uses moisture monitoring equipment to effectively measure and document the drying process to ensure your property is dry.

Please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Customer Spotlight: Brett Hoch

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage equipment during restoration at Hoch's home in Washington, Missouri.

An estimated 30 percent of water damage is caused by appliance failure.

Unfortunately for Washington, Missouri native Brett Hoch, he experienced an appliance failure when his dishwasher leaked for several days. The leaking caused water damage to two levels of his home.

“Unbeknownst to us, the (dishwasher’s inlet) valve had failed,” Hoch explained. “We didn’t know it was happening until the water saturated the drywall in the basement.”

The engineered wood flooring and subfloor of the house were also damaged. Hoch initially used his own fans to help dry the damage, but his insurance company recommended him to use SERVPRO of Franklin County to help mitigate.

“At that point, things were in pretty horrific shape,” Hoch said. “You guys came out the next morning, took out the rest of the drywall and removed things that were either damaged, ruined or had to be dried out.”

SERVPRO helped restore Hoch’s home for four days, drying out the structure and mitigating the damage. We were also able to cut down costs on his insurance claim, Hoch said.

“Because you guys sent samples of everything damaged to the insurance company, that helped save me money on my claim,” he said. 

Production Manager Nate Gillespey kept Hoch updated throughout the process.

“Nate did a good job of keeping me informed and letting me know what was happening,” Hoch said.

Hoch is still in the process of repairing the damage caused by the dishwasher, but he believes SERVPRO helped him tremendously.

“At the end of the day it was worth the effort to get you guys in there,” he said. “I think in the long run you guys saved me a lot more money because of the mitigation you did.”

Five Ways to Winterize Your Home

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Winter is coming. 

As you prepare to put up the tree and hang the lights this holiday season, it’s important to remember to prepare your house for the winter, too. 

Don’t forget to take these steps to get your home ready for the cold.

• Clean the Gutters

Clear the leaves and debris that have accumulated to ensure water can flow freely. This will help prevent icicles from forming in the winter. It’s vital to clean the gutters to avoid them getting damaged, which can lead to expensive repairs. To top it off, when gutters pile up with leaves, twigs and other debris, it can cause contaminants like mold and mildew to spread throughout your home. 

• Protect Your Pipes

Water expands when it freezes, causing pipes to burst and water to spew throughout your home. To protect your pipes, make sure to shut off all outside faucets and drain water out of valves. For particularly vulnerable pipes, heat cables are a smart solution, as they have built-in-thermostats that turn the heat on and off as needed to prevent freezing. If you’re leaving town for an extended period of time, turn your water off at the main shutoff so you don’t come home to frozen pipes. 

• Flush Your Hot Water Heater

This is an often overlooked, yet simple way to make your water heater run more efficiently. Gunk and other mineral deposits build up in the heater over time, so it’s important to flush it through the drain valve every 1-3 years. This will not only make the heater run more efficiently, it will improve your water quality as well.

• Keep the Cold Out

Cold air coming into the house can lead to higher gas bills. To keep the cold weather outside, caulk around your windows and use foam outlet protectors. You can also use thermal lined curtains or drapes to prevent cold air from slipping through window cracks. 

• Bring In/Protect Outdoor Items

Outdoor equipment and furniture can be damaged by cold weather or snow. Protect your grill with a cover and move your furniture into the garage or basement, if possible. Plants and flowering trees should also be brought inside before temperatures drop below 45 degrees. 

Ready For Winter Weather?

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for the coming cold weather?

Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not ready for it. From heavy rain and freezing temperatures to damaging winds, sleet, or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage.

While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather. To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
• 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.
• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
• Ask SERVPRO of Franklin County about completing an Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no-cost assessment to your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.

When winter weather strikes, call SERVPRO of Franklin County to strike back.

Document Restoration Services

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO knows timely mitigation is the key to reducing severity and recovering damaged items. Water– or smoke–damaged paper can rapidly deteriorate. Without proper handling, valuable files and irreplaceable documents could be lost forever. Let SERVPRO’s Document Restoration Team help you recover your damaged paper goods before it is too late.

SERVPRO’s technicians are trained to use the most advanced technology available for document recovery and drying; in fact, the Document Restoration Team uses the same technique the Library of Congress uses to dry water-damaged books.

Why choose SERVPRO® Vacuum Freeze Drying?

Vacuum freeze drying is the most efficient and effective way to salvage water-damaged documents. The Document Restoration Team uses sublimation—turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage to avoid causing more damage to the documents. This process can recover even the most delicate items—from documents to photographs and x-rays, to entire business archives. All employees of the Document Restoration Team are HIPAA Master certified and once your items arrive at the SERVPRO® facility, 24/7 video surveillance is guaranteed.

Digitizing

With the new age of technology, digitizing records and documents has become a standard practice in most industries. This eliminates the need to have massive file storage rooms and allows us to access records at the click of a button. If your file room was damaged by water or smoke and needs to be cleaned, dried or decontaminated, digitizing might be a good choice to eliminate the need to have hundreds or even thousands of documents and records in storage.

Gamma Irradiation

Gamma irradiation is a process used for cleaning/disinfecting and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods. In a CAT 3 situation (sewage or flood water), documents are not only deteriorating but are also infected with all types of bacteria. In most storm situations, you are dealing with CAT 3 water; therefore, most of the affected documents you encounter will be contaminated. If this is the case, decontamination is always a must. In living cells, these disruptions result in damage to the DNA and other cellular structures. These photon induced changes at the molecular level cause the death of the organism or render the organism incapable of reproduction. The gamma process does not create residuals or impart radioactivity in processed products.

Certified Destruction

Unfortunately, many businesses and government agencies have to dispose of counterfeit, faulty, expired or contaminated materials. All entities need to be certified that their products and materials are destroyed. The guarantee of certified destruction is to protect one’s liabilities, brand image or proprietary information. We guarantee certified destruction to give you peace of mind that your documents are disposed of properly.

SERVPRO’s goal is to make the process as simple as possible for customers. Contact SERVPRO of Franklin County for more information on Document Restoration services.

Five Fall Fire Prevention Tips

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Keeping your family and home safe is important no matter the season. But fall brings more chances for safety to be compromised.

While autumn is a great time to light candles or build fires, there’s also an increased likelihood of a fire getting out of hand.

But, if you follow these tips, you can ensure both an enjoyable and safe fall for yourself and your loved ones.

• Check Smoke Detectors and Fire Extinguishers
  • The easiest way to stop a house fire is to make sure your house has preventative measures in place. Check to see if your smoke detector batteries are still working, and change them out if necessary. Also, make sure that your fire extinguishers still have liquid in them and are located in easily accessible places.
• Caution With Candles
  • There’s nothing like candles to put you in an autumn mood. But it’s important to be mindful when you are using them. Don’t leave candles unattended and keep them away from children, pets and flammable objects.
• Fireplace/Pit Safety
  • Similar to lit candles, you should never leave a fire alone. If you’re making a fire in a fireplace, use a screen to keep sparks and debris from getting out. When building an outdoor fire, be sure that the pit is on level ground. Keep the fire away from overhanging trees and close houses or buildings, and use wood that has been split and stored in a safe and dry environment for at least six months.
• Safety With Space Heaters
  • Space heaters should be surrounded by at least three feet of empty space. If your space heater requires venting, make sure you have vented it to the outdoors. Remember to turn space heaters off when you leave the house/building or go to bed. Review Your Safety Plan Look over your safety plan and remind your family (or co-workers in the case of an office safety plan) of the procedures to take in the event of a fire. Locate all possible exits and establish safe meeting places to head to after getting out of the house/building. To ensure greater success, practice a fire drill so that everyone is on the same page.

The Behavior of Smoke

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior 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.

SERVPRO of Franklin County professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, we will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and its contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows your local SERVPRO® franchise professionals to focus on saving your precious items.

We know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Our knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following points are additional facts you may not know about smoke.

• 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.
• Wet Smoke. (Plastic and Rubber) Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, and 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.
• Fuel Oil Soot. (Furnace puff backs) While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, we can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.
• Other Types. (Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue) Special loss situations require special care.

SERVPRO® of Franklin County professionals are trained to handle even the toughest of losses. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

SAFETY FIRST: Before the Feast

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

USING A PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER

A portable fire extinguisher can be a life and property saving tool when used correctly. To operate a fire extinguisher, the NFPA suggests remembering the word PASS.

• Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low. Point the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. Encourage your family members and co-workers to do the same. Remember, extinguishers do have their limitations! It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your home or facility.

SAFETY FIRST - Before the Feast
Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your happy holiday could quickly become hazardous in a blink of an eye. According to the NFPA, cooking is the main cause of home fires and injuries, with the Thanksgiving holiday being the peak day for cooking related fire emergencies.

Review the following safety tips to help ensure you can enjoy a safe holiday.

• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food. If someone must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, they should turn off the stove.
• Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while kitchen equipment is in use. Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.
• Keep small children away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove and oven.
• Keep anything flammable like potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels away from the stove, oven, or other appliances in the kitchen that generates heat.
• Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
• Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease build-up.
• Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen year-round. Contact the local fire department for training on the proper use of fire extinguishers if you are unsure.
• Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all kitchen appliances like stoves, ovens, and toasters are turned off.
• Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen, on each level of the home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside of bedrooms. Use the test button to check it is working properly every month. Replace the batteries at least once a year.

SERVPRO of Franklin County wishes you a safe and happy Thanksgiving and holiday season.

Five Things to Put on Your Checklist This Fall

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

Fall is here, which means the leaves are changing colors, the temperature is dropping, and it’s finally time to take care of the cleaning you’ve been putting off all summer.

Here are five items to put on your checklist for your fall cleaning.

1. Test and Clean Your Detectors

Make sure the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon detectors still have juice in them, and if necessary, change them out. If you’ve been putting this off, we suggest checking your detectors when you move your clocks back on Nov. 1. Remember to clean your alarms, as accumulated dust can cause them to underperform!

2. Purge Your Pantry

Those hot dog buns you bought for your 4th of July barbecue have probably (okay, definitely) gone bad by now. Do a thorough sweep of your pantry and toss any items that have gone bad. Moldy food can cause mold spores to spread throughout the home, so be sure to wash your pantry with warm, soapy water or baking soda and a warm, wet paper towel.

3. Get Your Carpets and Upholstery Cleaned

Can you believe that Thanksgiving is just a few weeks away? If you are hosting family or friends this year, you might want to consider shampooing your carpets and vacuuming your upholstered furniture. If you want to treat yourself with an early Christmas present, consider hiring the professionals at SERVPRO to do the cleaning for you.

4. Clean the Gutters 

When sticks and leaves start to pile up in gutters, they can cause a leaky roof or damage to the interior or exterior of the home. It’s recommended that you clean your gutters twice a year, so get this completed before it gets too cold. Cleaning gutters can be dangerous! Be careful and use a safe and secure ladder.

5. Check Your HVAC Unit

Nobody wants to have dusty air circulating throughout their house. Remember to clean and replace your air filters and wipe down registers to prevent dust and debris from being circulated. It’s recommended to get air ducts cleaned every 3-5 years, so if you’re past due for a cleaning, SERVPRO can get your HVACs cleaned to ensure quality air for you and your family.

The Science of Drying

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Did you know there is a science behind the process of drying?

The knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Franklin County is trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages.

If your business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of Franklin County will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

What exactly does “speed up Mother Nature” mean? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out. For this reason, SERVPRO of Franklin County has been trained to use professional equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more.

DRYBOOK™ DOCUMENTATION 

SERVPRO of Franklin County uses the latest technology to help ensure your property is dried quickly and efficiently. DryBook™ is a proprietary tool that:

• Manages industry drying requirements. n Provides real-time documentation on the drying process.
• Validates that services are executed to standard.
• Reports to all stakeholders involved. 
• Allows real-time updates through DryBook™ Mobile integration. This improves results and restores your property at a faster rate, getting you back in your home or business sooner.

SERVPRO® also uses state-of-the-artmonitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

The bottom line? SERVPRO of Franklin County has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Cheap Carpet Cleaning Services Can Cause More Damage

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is IICRC Certified and "Here to Help".

You might be thinking cheap carpet cleaning can help save money, but it might not in the long run. An uncertified carpet cleaning will be unable to give the service needed, especially considering that many homeowners wait until their carpeting is heavily soiled. An unskilled company can actually make the carpets condition worse and force a homeowner to spend more than planned.

Inconsistent quality of treatment is a major issue. With certification from the IICRC comes knowledge. By choosing a company such as SERVPRO of Franklin County, you know you are getting a professional that has been properly trained. In addition to poor soil removal overall, improper cleaning can leave the carpeting open for quick re-soiling, forcing additional treatment right away. Also, if a technician does not apply water or cleansing agents properly, it can cause health problems for the home’s occupants. Specifically, excess water will allow molds and bacteria to fester, and it may also attract pests. Untrained crews may also employ low quality cleaning agents as well, and if any residue is left behind, it may cause breathing problems or illness if it is ingested or inhaled.

Saving money can be a good thing, but not when it comes to carpet cleaning. 

From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to properly clean your carpets.

You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, but our professional residential cleaning services can also make a dirty carpet "Like it never even happened."

Give us a call today for a carpet cleaning estimate: (636) 583-5200.

Emergency Fire Damage Tips

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper action until the professionals at SERVPRO of Franklin County arrive. Follow these DOs and DON’Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking.
• Keep your hands clean. Soot on your hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• If electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances.
• If heat is off during winter months, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Remove soot particles from plants with a damp cloth.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave it off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON’T:

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your local SERVPRO franchise professional.
• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet, rugs, or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO franchise professional.
• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don’t consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

National Day of Service and Remembrance

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

September 11, 2020 - In honor and memory of those who died on September 11, 2001, as well as the survivors and first responders, the National Day of Service and Remembrance was established in 2009 as a day of reflection.

Led by the Corporation for National and Community Service, this is a day to come together just as Americans did following the events of 9/11 to help and honor their neighbors in need.

On this day and every day, SERVPRO® salutes those heroes who arrive in the greatest times of need and stand strong in the face of disaster. These heroes are the first responders who keep our communities safe in unprecedented times. Reflect and strive to make a positive difference in your area this year to commemorate the National Day of Service and Remembrance.

To find volunteer opportunities near you or to register your National Day of Service and Remembrance event, visit nationalservice.gov/911day

Smoke Alarms are: LIFE SAVERS

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In homes, smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and on every level, including the basement. In office and commercial environments, check your state requirements or contact your local Fire Marshall to help ensure all codes are met.

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm.

Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA). In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need help installing, testing, or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician, or the American Red Cross. Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills.

For more information on Emergency Preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County.

Dirty Air Ducts?

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

If your home or business needs air duct cleaning, call SERVPRO of Franklin County.

Your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality.

Inspecting the ductwork in your Franklin County, MO facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO of Franklin County's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO® of Franklin County will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork. In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke, or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, we can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

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

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

The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.

Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.

Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.

As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.

Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO® of Franklin County today. 

September is National Preparedness Month

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

This year for National Preparedness Month, join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading efforts to encourage the community to become more prepared.

“Disasters happen” and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities. Learn how to be prepared.

Make and Practice Your Plan

Do you have an evacuation and shelter-in-place plan? Do you have a plan to communicate with your family before, during and after an incident? Do you have an emergency supply kit? Make sure your family is informed and practiced in your emergency plan. Be sure to sign up for alerts and warnings for your area, and download other necessary apps to stay informed, such as the FEMA app.

Learn Life Saving Skills

Do you or someone in your family know CPR? Could you turn off your natural gas if necessary? Do you know how to take cover in an earthquake? Knowing these life saving skills could mean life or death in an emergency situation for you, your family or your neighbors.

Check your Insurance Coverage

Have you reviewed your insurance coverage recently to see if you’re covered in a disaster? Evaluate which hazards are relevant to your area and obtain the appropriate insurance for your home, business, or other property and become familiar with your coverage.

Save for an Emergency

Are you prepared financially in case of a disaster? Does your family have an emergency fund for unexpected expenses after a flood or fire? Check out FEMA’s Emergency Financial First Aid Kit for an in-depth document to help you identify and compile important documents and account information all in one spot. Just search “EFFAK” on fema.gov for the free PDF.

Whether its flood, wildfire or extreme winter weather, we must work together as a team to help ensure our families, businesses, places of worship and neighborhoods are prepared. Contact SERVPRO of Franklin County to find out how they can help make it “Like it never even happened,” if disaster strikes in your life.

Defense Against Mold Growth

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

If you discover mold in your home or business, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

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

Here are some tips to keep your home safe from mold growth:

• Keep the humidity between 30 to 60 percent.
• Provide for proper drainage away from building foundations.
• Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.
• Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.
• Inspect the roof, windows, and other areas where water might enter the building and perform necessary maintenance.
• Respond to all water intrusions immediately.

Contact SERVPRO® of Franklin County for assistance after a water damage or if you discover mold.

We are here to help: 636-583-5200.

VirUS

8/1/2020 (Permalink)

One Team. We are here in the community and ready to serve.

We are all in this together.

While the many of our community went into quarantine, we went into action, disinfecting area first responders’ vehicles and area businesses – completely for free.

As Missouri started to reopen, we began to offer our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program. This is a proactive cleaning that works in addition to the already great lengths our community takes to keep everyone safe.

Now, the pandemic continues and so do we. COVID-19 cases are on the rise and we have been busy working to keep the community safe. We have completed numerous confirmed COVID-19 disinfectant cleanings at area businesses.

As of today, we have cleaned 276 police cars, 189 fire trucks, and 117 ambulances. We have also completed free disinfecting at several local restaurants, insurance agents, and other small business we’ve known throughout the years – no charge.

We do not know what this new normal will bring in the future, but we know one thing: we will be READY to help when you need us.

In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 

We are here and ready to serve. 

Call us 24/7: 636-583-5200

A Small Disaster

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage? Call the Professionals at SERVPRO of Franklin County

There is no such thing as a small disaster—especially when a small leak now could blossom into a big claim later. Unseen water can soak through walls, seep through carpet and pool on sub floors, causing major problems over time. You need help—fast.

No matter what time of day or night, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County to begin emergency mitigation. Emergency mitigation means under normal circumstances, SERVPRO can be on-site within four hours to begin drying your building and restoring contents. The faster the water is removed, the less chance of serious damage to your facility.

We are trained and understands how to manage the drying process. By utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and the latest technology, your structure will be quickly and thoroughly dried, which helps prevent secondary water damages. SERVPRO will remove moisture and any contaminants by disinfecting and deodorizing to safely clean and dry your building and contents. Help ensure the value of your property by calling SERVPRO of Franklin County today.  

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, we stand on over 50 years of experience and expertise to help ensure your business is taken care of as the economy begins to reopen.

Are You READY?

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

Contact us to learn more about our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned service and for a free quote.

When our logo is on your door, your commitment to clean is clear.

Are you ready to be Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned?

With reported COVID-19 cases on the rise, communicate to your customers and employees that you’ve chosen a higher standard of clean with the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that SERVPRO offers to commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 global pandemic. This is a level of clean that goes far beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning.

When you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, we stand on over 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

Fast Response With Confirmed Cases

In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 

Have Questions? Interested in a free quote?

Call Us 24/7: (636) 583-5200

CPR and First Aid Certified

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

Learning CPR and first aid. A big thank you to Stayin' Alive.

A huge thank you to Stayin’ Alive for coming by today to train all our employees on CPR and first aid. While not an event that would typically be in our daily duties, our employees are on the road and visiting customers every day. This was an excellent training for us to know what to do if a fellow employee or customer became injured or ill. We hope that everyone stays safe, but if needed we could use this valuable information in the future.

How to Check Your Home for Storm Damage

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

Storm damage in Franklin County, MO? Call SERVPRO of Franklin County

Storms can bring heavy rains, strong winds and destructive hail. 

Your home protects you from the elements, so be sure to check it for damage afterward. It is a good idea to check your property even if you do not suspect damage. This can help prevent more problems later and determine if you need to make an insurance claim.

Roof
Your roof can be very vulnerable, because so many things can damage it. High winds, downed tree branches or a hailstorm, look for these indicators of damage:

• Holes in the roof
• Split Seams
• Missing Shingles
• Leaks in roof or ceiling

Exteriors

Siding, stucco, and brick are all durable, but they can suffer storm damage. Check for:

• Cracking, chipping or ding and dents on siding. Check in different lighting because you may see something you missed.
• Holes in stucco
• Damaged brick and tuck pointing.
• Detached or damaged trim, gutters, etc.

General Tips

• Severe storms often will knock down power lines. If this happens on your property, rope off 30 feet in each direction around the line and do not touch it. Call 911 and the power company immediately.
• Be sure to do a full check of your property, including things such as your air-conditioning unit, fences, vent caps, etc. And do not forget to check your vehicles if they were not garaged at the time of the storm.
• Check your crawl space and basement. You need to be sure no water is getting in, and, if it is, make sure it is removed quickly via a sump pump or underground drainage system.
• Take pictures of all damage from different angles. Finally, knowing the details of your homeowner’s coverage, your limits and your deductibles can help you during the insurance claims process. It is a great idea to examine your policy and know what your homeowner’s insurance covers now, before the storm.

Restoration

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your Franklin County, MO home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Need Storm or Flood Restoration Service? Call us today: 636-583-5200

Committed to Clean

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that SERVPRO offers to commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 global pandemic

Being open for business is just the beginning of our new journey forward. Employees may be hesitant to return to work and customers may wonder whether the businesses they patronize are safe. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean. Are you ready to communicate to your customers and employees that you have chosen a higher standard of clean for all Americans? Are you ready to be Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned?

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that SERVPRO offers to commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 global pandemic. This is a level of clean that goes far beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning.

This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. When you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you have selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

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

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

Call SERVPRO of Franklin County today for more information: (636) 583-5200.

Severe Storm Damage

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Be ready for whatever happens, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms associated with freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds.

Know your risk:
Tornadoes
Floods
Thunderstorms & Lightning

Develop an emergency plan based on your local weather hazards and practice your plan.

• Make a family emergency plan
• Be informed about emergency alerts

What can you do when your Franklin County, MO home suffers water damage?  Click Here to visit our blog post covering water damage.

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm, know who to call to quickly get help.

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial.  You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job.

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition. SERVPRO of Franklin County can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

SERVPRO of Franklin County is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here too and are proud to be part of the Union community. We are also part of a national network of 1,650 with special Disaster Recover Teams that can respond with additional resources during catastrophic storms and major events.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (636) 583-5200

Does your home or business have smoke odor?

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Professional smoke odor removal is important not only to eliminate unpleasant smells, but because lingering smoke can pose a health hazard.

Exposure to particles caused by fires can be harmful to one’s health and should be dealt with as soon as possible.

• There are a few steps homeowners can take while waiting for professional help.
• When it is safe to re-enter the house, circulate the air as much as possible. Open all windows and doors and use fans to ventilate the area.
• Mop floors and make sure everything dries thoroughly to prevent mold growth.
• Items made of brass and copper should be cleaned within 24 hours to prevent them from etching.
• Vacuum carpets to remove dirt and dust particles that trap unwanted smells.

To completely rid the house, one smoke odor removal process that is utilized is called thermal fogging, which is a procedure used by professionals.

Thermal fog is a process in which a fluid is vaporized and then condenses when it meets a cooler atmosphere temperature. The particles that are created are extremely tiny and mimic particles created by fire, heat, and pressure. This technique is one treatment that is proven to eliminate odors.

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Franklin County is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors.

These odors can come from several sources both inside and outside a structure.
SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other short cuts do not work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.

We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor and determining the conditions in which it contacts any surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call, and leave the restoration to us. 636-583-5200

Within Minutes....

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County is READY to help when your home or business suffers water damage.

Within minutes of a water leak in your home, water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path. The water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings, your furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets. Your photographs, books, and other paper goods will start to swell and warp. Within 24 hours, your drywall will begin to swell and break down, you may even notice a musty odor. Therefore, when you have water damage, you want to call someone that arrives quickly to get started.

Not only does SERVPRO offer 24/7 response time 7 days a week, our goal is to be on site within 4 hours of loss notification. Usually, our response time is even less. For example, at a recent loss in Union, MO, we were on site within 20 minutes. This loss was in the basement of the home with most of the rooms 100% saturated. Drywall had to be removed as it was falling and to find the source. Non-salvageable materials were removed, and a power distribution box was required.  There were also some contents that needed to be moved for the drying process. We used our moisture monitoring equipment to effectively measure and document the drying process to ensure the home was properly dried. This home was dry within 4 days with our state-of-the-art equipment.

If you have water damage in your home, please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

You should call the water damage restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Franklin County for your water loss. We are always “Here to Help”!

Vandalism and Crime Scene Cleanup

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County is "Here to Help" when it comes to many different types of situations.

Your disaster may not always be fire and water related, but we are are still Here to Help® at SERVPRO of Franklin County when it comes to other situations.

We also provide services for biohazard, crime scene cleanup, and vandalism. These are services you may never think of until a related disaster strikes you or your business. Equipped with the knowledge, experience, and training, SERVPRO of Franklin County will start helping the moment you call.

Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. Our first focus is always safety. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.

When disaster strikes, make sure you have experienced professionals on the line. No matter how big or small, SERVPRO of Franklin County will be ready to help make your Franklin County, MO property damage “Like it never even happened.”

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

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

Let us help you get back to business

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

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

Extensive training and specialized products

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

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

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

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

Call SERVPRO of Franklin County today at 636-583-5200 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

The Cleanup Team

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County is "Here to Help"!

There is no disaster that hits home quite like a disaster to your property, home, or business.

When you have suffered a fire, water, or mold damage, you don’t have time to waste searching for a company to fix your property. When disaster strikes, depend on SERVPRO® and our network of over 1,700 Franchises in North America.

Whether the job is big or small, SERVPRO® of Franklin County will be there to help make it “Like it never even happened,” so you can get back to your home or business and on with your life.

It’s good to know SERVPRO® is there if you ever need them. If you’re in need of cleanup and restoration services, call SERVPRO of Franklin County today!

Assisting the Community

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County was featured in the weekend Missourian for disinfecting fire trucks at the Washington Fire Department.

For over a month now, SERVPRO of Franklin County has continued to answer the calls of our neighbors who need us most. We have been offering disinfectant cleaning to our first responders – completely free. Over the past month we have cleaned 197 police cars, 144 fire trucks, and 46 ambulances. We also did a free proactive cleaning for some of our local insurance agents and Pasta House here in Union, MO.

We will continue to offer this service to as long it is necessary, to help keep our community healthy and safe.

Responding during difficult times is what we do, it is who we are and what we know. Our business remains open to you as our employees and services are essential during this coronavirus pandemic. If your home or business is in need of cleaning and sanitizing, or any of our core water and fire services, give us a call at 636-583-5200. We are here and ready to serve.

Local Businesses Protect Community with Proactive Cleaning

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

Interested in proactive cleaning for your business? Give us a call to schedule an appointment.

SERVPRO of Franklin County recently completed a proactive disinfectant cleaning to help protect the community and employees of Pasta House in Union, MO. This service can be used in addition to your already established cleaning schedule for businesses large or small.

SERVPRO is being called on by numerous businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect and sanitize their properties. All our cleanup practices are in accordance with the guidelines provided by the CDC and local authorities.

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

If you are interested in inquiring about our services we’re here to help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week, while life gets back to normal in the communities we all call home. Call us today: (636) 583-5200

Protect Yourself & Others During the Pandemic

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

Everyone Should

Clean your hands often

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Put distance between yourself and other people.
• Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread virus.
• Keeping distance from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.

Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others

• You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.
• Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities.
• Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
• The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.
• Do NOT use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker.
• Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing.

Cover coughs and sneezes

• If you are in a private setting and do not have on your cloth face covering, remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
• Throw used tissues in the trash.
• Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Clean and disinfect

• Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
• If surfaces are dirty, clean them. Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
• Then, use a household disinfectant. Most common EPA-registered household disinfectant will work.

DIY Paper Flowers by Bella

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Create these beautiful DIY flowers for your home!

Ever see those beautiful paper flowers used for wall décor? You can usually find them in little girls’ rooms or for birthday parties.

I decided to make some for our daughter’s room. I mean we are stuck in the house right now, so why not? Might as well get creative!

Well I did it and I’m going to share an easy step by step on how to make your own!

You will need:

• Card stock paper in whatever colors and patterns you are wanting.
• Hot glue gun & glue sticks
• Gems (for middle of some flowers)
• Scissors
• Scotch tape
• Thumb tacks
• Pencil
• Thin floral wire

The first thing you will need to do is Google or Pinterest some templates for the flower type you are wanting. This gives you the petal shapes you need! You also need to make sure you find various sizes, if that’s the look you are wanting. Once you’ve got your templates, go ahead and print them!

Next, using your templates, trace the petal shapes onto your cardstock paper and cut the petals out. You will also need a circle (if not included in your template) to glue the petals onto and leaves to accent the flowers.

Once the petals are cut out use your pencil and wrap the end of the petals around it. This will curve the petals to make them look more realistic.

Then you are going to use your hot glue gun to layer the petals. You should lay down your largest size petals first and decrease the petal size as you work toward the middle of the flower.

For the center of your flower you can either use a gem, or fold a thin rectangular piece of paper (2” x 5”) in half and fringe it (leaving about a ½” to not cut all the way through) so when you roll in up it creates a different look for the center. There are so many ways to make the flower center though, so don’t be afraid to look around at different ideas!

Next you will take a small section of floral wire (about 1/2”-1”) and make a small loop. Hot glue the loop onto the back of the flower circle. Do this for all your flowers, as this will be how you hang them on the wall.

Now let’s talk about putting the flowers up! Make sure you’ve given the flowers plenty of time to sit so the glue is dried and hardened. Once the flowers are ready, set them onto the floor or table and arrange them how you’d like to see them on the wall. This is such an important part so that you have the exact look you want and know if you need to add more flowers or leaves!

Lastly you get to put your beautiful flowers up on the wall! (YAY!!!) This is the moment you’ve waited for. The moment you get to see these paper beauties shine! Start with your middle-most flower and use a thumb tack through the wire to pin it into place. Then take the flowers directly around that flower and pin them up. Continue placing the flowers onto the wall from the middle out. Once you only have leaves left, use a few tiny pieces of scotch tape on the backs of them to hold them on the wall.

That’s it! You’re done!

Take a step back and admire your work. Looks great doesn’t it? Yes, yes it does! Great job, you DIYer!

Share your paper flower photos with us so we can see your beautiful designs!

What to Do After Fire Damage

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be severe, but restoration is possible. Call SERVPRO of Franklin County to schedule a free estimate if you have fire damage.

Safety is a primary concern when dealing with fire damage. Returning to normal may seem impossible, but thankfully it isn’t. After calling the fire department, home and business owners should be aware that the building may be dangerous. Entering the building should be avoided since the environment could be toxic. No one should enter the house or office until the emergency responders approve that it is safe. Roofs and floors could be unsafe and could possibly cave in without notice. Smoke, soot and water are problems that need to be dealt with as soon as possible.

 Home and business owners should take the following steps following a fire:

• Contact local disaster relief. In some cases, relatives will open their home for their families or friends in an emergency. If that is not an option, local services can help families find shelter, food and medication
• Contact the insurance company. The insurance company can help home and business owners understand what they must do in order to file a claim and receive compensation.
• Utilities should not be turned on if the emergency responders have shut them off.  They could be extremely hazardous and should only be used if a professional says it is safe.
• Call the landlord or mortgage company and inform them about the situation
• Call the police and inform them that the office or home will be vacant until the building is restored.
• Receipts should be saved to provide information to the insurance company and to claim losses on income tax forms.

Fire damage can be severe, but restoration is possible. It is important to proceed with caution to prevent any further damage. With experienced restoration professionals and some time, a house or office can often be restored to its original condition.

SERVPRO of Franklin County has the specialized fire and water damage cleanup and restoration training and experience to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. We also have specific training and equipment for odor removal and deep cleaning of upholstery and carpet. 

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Here to Help Our First Responders

4/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technician disinfecting Union, MO police department vehicles

SERVPRO of Franklin County recently reached out to our local first responders, including local police, fire department and ambulance districts in order to disinfect their vehicles for free.

This is our way of helping protect our first responders from the COVID-19 pandemic.  While this is just a small way to pay back our responders for their hard work and dedication, we hope that this will give them some peace of mind knowing their vehicles were properly disinfected.

We recently finished completing cleaning for the Union, MO police and the Pacific, MO fire department and have more disinfectant appointments for other area first responders scheduled in the future. If any first responders would like to request information about this service, please give us a call.

If you have questions regarding disinfecting your home or business, we are here to help.

Give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call, 24/7: (636) 583-5200

DIY Table Top Stain by Bella

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

DIY Tabletop Stain Final Results

We’ve had this table for a while now. It’s an oak butcher block top, and honestly pretty great.

But I really REALLY didn’t like the orange-like color of it. Like, at all. So, I decided to change that.

However, it was the middle of the winter when I decided this, and you can’t stain a table outdoors in the middle of the winter. And I couldn’t do it indoors and expose my little kiddos to the fumes. And I definitely didn’t want to wait until it warmed up enough outside to do this!

So, I decided to make my own non-toxic stain. Yes, a DIY stain.

Have I lost my mind? Maybe a little! But I made it and.... it worked! Like magic!

I wanted a beautiful, old and weathered gray look with a hint of warm brown peeking through and that’s EXACTLY what I got. The color is perfect. I absolutely love the results!

So how the heck did I do it? You’re going to love this. It’s so easy and extremely cheap! Plus, you probably already have all these items in your house right now.

Disclaimer: You may love these results and its’ cost effectiveness so much that you may start finding new house projects just to use this stain.

You will need:

• 1 jar with a lid
• 1 ball of steel wool (no soap products on it)
• White vinegar
• Strong, steeped black tea
• 2 wash cloths

How to make the stain:

1. Take the steel wool ball and break it in half (or as close to half as possible), and then rip that half into smaller pieces, placing the pieces in the empty jar. So, you should have roughly half the steel wool ball in the jar.
2. Pour vinegar over the steel wool until the steel wool is covered.
3. Place the lid on the jar and let it sit for at least 24 hours before use.

THAT’S IT. Super easy right? The hardest part about this stain is waiting the 24 hours to use it! This allows the vinegar to become ironized from the steel wool, which interacts with the wood tannins, making your wood a darker color. Now, the longer you leave the steel wool in there, the darker it can make the wood. So experiment if you’d like! The possibilities are endless.

Okay, now to apply the stain! Keep in mind that your wood project should be stripped of any pre-existing finishes/stains.

1. Your stain has sat for at least 24 hours. You can now remove the steel wool from your jar or strain it out if you have smaller bits. (To test the color of your stain, take a scrap piece of wood and follow these next steps before trying on the final piece you want to stain. This way, if you want it to be darker, you put the steel wool back in for a few more hours. Just know: the stain will continue to change shades for a few hours after application.)
2. Take your strong black tea and use a washcloth to apply a liberal amount to the wood you’d like to stain. Allow to soak in and dry.
3. Once the tea has dried, use a separate washcloth to apply the stain to the wood. It should immediately darken the wood on contact and will continue to change in shade a bit more over the next few hours. (This is fascinating to watch, actually.)
4. Protect the surface from use for at least 24 hours to ensure that it is fully dried and to its’ final shade. You may now seal your piece in whatever finish product you prefer.

So, there you go! The secret to a non-toxic stain that works in one application! I actually applied this to our table while holding our infant! It basically just smelled like vinegar with a hint of metal- very much tolerable.

If you try this out, share a picture with us! We’d love to see what projects you’re working on and how this turned out for you.

Viruses in Everyday Life

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

This time of year can be draining because of all the colds and sickness going around. It’s hard enough with the common cold, but add in the flu, RSV, and all the new strains of things…. It’s enough to make you want to stay indoors and away from the public!

It’s obviously very difficult to completely isolate ourselves. We do have lives after all! We go to work, to the grocery store, out to eat, to the bank, and maybe even have kiddos who attend school - which is just teeming with germs!

So, what exactly is a virus? That’s a long answer! The short answer: They’re like a parasite and can only survive long-term within a host. Viruses attach themselves to their host’s cells and begin replicating, and then (depending on the virus) the infection begins.

Viruses are spread through droplets from a cough, sneeze, or saliva of an infected person getting into another person’s mouth or being inhaled; and by touching a surface that has been exposed to the virus. Sometimes a person can be infected for a period before any symptoms arise (days even), making the chances of spreading the virus even more likely. As for surface areas, they can survive from a few hours up to a few weeks, depending on the virus. Yes, WEEKS!

Sounds awful right? Gives me shivers thinking about it! The key here is that viruses can only replicate within a host! Therefore, hand washing is a big deal and one of the biggest ways to help yourself avoid them. That’s only part of the picture though.

Imagine you’re going out for dinner. You take the precaution of thoroughly washing your hands. However, did you touch the door handle to enter/exit? Did you just spend several minutes flipping through the menu that countless others have touched that day? Still hungry?

Schools are even worse because you’re relying on young children to wash their hands properly, otherwise they’re easily spreading those germs as they walk down the hallways, trailing their hands along the wall after sneezing or coughing directly into them.

The point is YOU can wash your hands as often as you’d like (honestly any little bit helps), but our community and businesses also need to do their part and make a conscious effort in battling these nasty viruses. If we can decrease the surface contamination, cover noses and mouths when coughing or sneezing, and wash our hands regularly it will significantly decrease the chances of these viruses entering our bodies and causing more infections.

We hope that with how hard viral infections have been so far this year and this season, that businesses will increase their cleaning efforts.

We can help minimize the spread of germs with proactive cleaning! At SERVPRO, we’re trained to adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitization standards, making us the #1 choice for cleanup and restoration. Call 636-583-5200 to see how we can help clean your home or business.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/spread.htm
https://www.sciencefocus.com/the-human-body/how-long-can-a-virus-live-outside-a-body/

Germs in The Workplace

3/14/2020 (Permalink)

Need a deeper clean? Call SERVPRO of Franklin County for all your cleaning needs.

Although the flu season is at its end, reports of influenza and strep are running rampant throughout the community; not to mention the introduction of COVID-19.

What steps can you take as a business to protect your employees?

• Handwashing
  • While probably the step most skipped over, a recent study states that most people only wash their hands for about 6 seconds. The CDC recommends washing your hands for at least 20 seconds. Washing your hands often, before you eat, after you sneeze and regularly are extremely important.
  • Consider setting up hand-washing stations in and out of your facility and request employees wash their hands when entering and exiting.
  • Providing hand sanitizer for employees on their desks who often greet customers would be an additional step to help keep your employees healthy.
• Sanitizing Break Rooms
  • Does your break room get deep cleaned regularly? The counters wiped off and cleaned with an anti-bacterial cleaner? Consider putting an employee or two in charge of this task a few times throughout the day.
• Sanitizing Commonly Used Items
  • While each business is different, some employees may share phones, walkie-talkies, computers, etc. Keeping these commonly used items cleaned and cleaned often with sanitizer near by can help prevent germs from spreading.

Are you in need of a deeper clean? Give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call! When bio-hazard, grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Franklin County for prompt service. (636) 583-5200

Proactive Cleaning to fight COVID-19

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

Use proactive Cleaning to fight COVID-19

SERVPRO® professionals are trained in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

SERVPRO® of Franklin County offers cleaning services including the removal of bio-hazard contaminants. They have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business.

About Coronavirus
The CDC is responding to an outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and has spread to 60 locations internationally (as of this publication), including cases in the United States. The virus known as “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”)i is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person or through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Scope of Cleanup Protocol
SERVPRO professionals can perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection where the customer states that there is no active known threat of COVID-19 contamination or exposure. The customer will be required to acknowledge that cleaning and disinfecting will only apply to the current state of the structure and contents. The structure would not be protected from future COVID-19 contamination if an infected person was to enter and occupy the building.

Cleanup Scope of Work and Planning
The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum.
These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces as well, including:

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

Cleanup and Disinfecting Procedures
Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of waste.
The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar type organisms to COVID-19.
SERVPROXIDE™, SERVPRO’s proprietary disinfectant, is a hospital-grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 on hard, non-porous surfaces. In addition, SERVPROXIDE™ currently has dozens of EPA-approved claims including Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, Staphylococcus (MRSA), E. coli, Salmonella, Rotavirus, Swine flu (H1N1) and more.
Porous surfaces that are not water-sensitive, such as carpet and other fabric material, cannot be disinfected but can be sanitized using SERVPROXIDE™.

Questions?
We are dedicated to being "Here to Help", please give us a call with any questions: (636) 583-5200.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/transmission.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/prevention.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fabout%2Fprevention-treatment.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Be READY for Spring Storms

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

When spring storms affect the Franklin County, Missouri area, know you can trust SERVPRO to be "Here to Help"!

Severe weather can happen anytime, in any part of the country. Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms associated with freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds.

Know your risk:
Tornadoes
Floods
Thunderstorms & Lightning

Develop an emergency plan based on your local weather hazards and practice your plan.

• Make a family emergency plan
• Be informed about emergency alerts

What can you do when your Franklin County, MO home suffers water damage?  Click Here to visit our blog post covering water damage.

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm, know who to call to quickly get help.

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial.  You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job.

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition. SERVPRO of Franklin County can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

SERVPRO of Franklin County is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here too and are proud to be part of the Union community. We are also part of a national network of 1,650 with special Disaster Recover Teams that can respond with additional resources during catastrophic storms and major events.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (636) 583-5200

The Power of Hand-Washing

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

While everyone may be focused on the new COVID-19, reports of the flu and strep are running rampant as well.  It is a good time to review the ways to keep yourself and your family safe. What’s the biggest step you can take? Hand washing!

Believe it or not, many people do not know the proper way to wash their hands! A quick dap of soap and a rinse will not protect you from germs. Hand sanitizer will help when you need a quick way to sanitize your hands – just make sure it has more than 60% alcohol.

Coronaviruses are encased in a lipid envelope -- basically, a layer of fat. Soap can break that fat apart and make the virus unable to infect you. The second thing soap does is mechanical. It makes skin slippery so that with enough rubbing, we can pry germs off and rinse them away.

Recent studies report that the temperature of the water doesn’t matter – but scrubbing your hands for 20 seconds does. Most people only wash their hands for about 6 seconds, states the study.

Be sure to wash your hands OFTEN, especially after using the bathroom and before you eat. Be sure to avoid touching contaminated surfaces. Use a clean paper towel to open bathroom doors. Disinfect dirty surfaces that you use every day, like the touchscreen on your phone and your computer keyboard.

Source: https://www.webmd.com/lung/news/20200306/power-of-hand-washing-to-prevent-coronavirus

Affordable Carpet Cleaning in Union, MO

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Need affordable carpet cleaning? Give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

Searching for the most affordable carpet cleaner?

While it’s completely possible to get affordable carpet cleaning that is also effective, it is also true when they say, “you get what you pay for”.

That’s why when choosing a company to clean your home, it’s important to look at their certifications and training. Certified crews, and those certified through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), know how to price their services fairly. That’s because they know how to approach every job and allocate the needed resources for it.

By choosing a certified professional, such as SERVPRO of Franklin County, it means treatment that will preserve your carpeting for longer. For example, a cheaper crew may do your carpet for less, but they can cause problems by over watering or poor soil extraction. This may cause the carpet to acquire new soils much faster. If water is left behind, it can promote mold and other microbes.

IICRC certified technicians know how to do the job right the first time, and with sophisticated professional equipment and methodology, the carpeting will be clean and ready to withstand many months of enjoyment before it needs to be cleaned again.

The SERVPRO of Franklin County staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

Need Carpet or Upholstery Cleaning?
Call Today – (636) 583-5200

Above and Beyond

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County helped First Presbyterian Church of Union get back to business! Give us a call if you experience water damage.

Water damage is not something anyone wants to see in their home, let alone their business. First Presbyterian Church of Union had to face this when their roof had a leak. We spoke with Mike and Myron of the church to get more of their view on this disaster. They explained that it was not something they expected to see and that it was unnerving. Mike says “It was in sad shape when I called you guys. Rain was still coming in through the roof, but Jerry and Nate came in and really helped!”

One of the employees knew of SERVPRO of Franklin County and mentioned to call us. Myron says, “We decided to Spearhead this thing…. he had worked with SERVPRO and was familiar with the services.” They also note that they were happy to see the wide array of services we offer and that we could handle reconstruction and anything else they might need in the future. Mike included “This was the first time dealing with something like this, but we felt very included. It turned out great- absolutely awesome!”

First Presbyterian had to have the roof repaired before work could begin to ensure that no more water would come in, but then SERVPRO quickly began drying the area. Myron and Mike both gave high praise on the inclusion they had throughout the process and how educated they were on every step. Mike says, “Any questions we had were answered and I especially appreciated the open-door policy with Jerry or Nate. I could ask anything or walk in if needed.”

SERVPRO took care of the needed reconstruction as well, including drywall and painting. They were grateful to have everything restored in a way that seemed true to the church. Mike talks a bit more about how Dan, a SERVPRO carpenter, really made an impact. “When Dan came along and started it helped A LOT. He’s a super guy and was very thorough in all he did. I couldn’t believe how well he was able to blend the new interior in with the old- just a super job!” Mike adds in that anyone coming into the church can’t even tell where the damage occurred because the reconstruction was executed so well. “We are still getting compliments on the job you did to this day. No one can tell where the leak caused damage or where the repairs are- even people who’ve been coming to this church for YEARS. It’s amazing! The whole congregation is happy and so appreciative.”

First Presbyterian Church of Union says they will recommend SERVPRO to other businesses, family, and friends in the future. Mike says, “You all went above and beyond, and truly lived up to the "Like it never even happened," slogan. We will definitely call you for anything in the future.” Mike has even used us to perform a duct cleaning on his own home since the close of this project. “I had you guys come out and duct clean my house. I told Nate that you did such a great job and I trusted you to clean my ducts.”

We love that we could restore the church and gain the appreciation of the entire congregation. SERVPRO of Franklin County hopes that YOU will keep us in mind for any water damage in your home or business!

We are “Here to Help”, give us a call 24/7: 636-583-5200.

DIY Eucalyptus Wreath

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

DIY Eucalyptus Wreath Completed

Ever see those beautiful eucalyptus wreaths and think to yourself, “Man, I’d love to have one of those in my house!” And then you go online or in the store to buy one and see that they’re $30 or more?! Especially for the larger ones, which of course is the only way to go!

Don’t worry. You’re not alone!

I wanted one for the longest time - a large one. I did NOT want to pay the $65 for it though! So, I decided to look into making it myself.

Sure, it’s a bit more time consuming, but if I could save enough money it would be well worth it.

First, I went online and searched “diy eucalyptus wreath”. This, of course, popped up a multitude of options to create. I mean, there are SO MANY variations of eucalyptus wreaths you can create and so many ways to do it!

I knew I wanted 2 small breaks in mine so that it wasn’t a full circle though. Once I knew that and saw a few different ways to go about it, I bought my supplies.

What you will need if you want the same type of wreath:

• One 6’ Eucalyptus Garland
• Two 24” Eucalyptus Branches/Bushes (used in floral arrangements)
• Green floral Wire
• Wire Cutters or Scissors
• 4-6 Clear Push Pins/Thumb Tacks (for hanging)

How to Assemble:

1. First you want to cut your garland in half. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just close.
2. Cut about five 6” pieces of floral wire.
3. Take one eucalyptus branch and start to attach it to the garland using the floral wire and making sure that the branches and leaves are going on the same direction. I tied mine together at the base, and toward the top before the branches thin out a lot. Feel free to add more if needed.
4. Shape the combined branches into a loose semi-circle and spread the branches apart to how you want them. The best way to do this is to lay it flat on the ground to get the look you want.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 for your second branch.
6. With both pieces on the floor, move the branches around until you have the final look you want.
7. Take your top branch and hold it up onto the wall where you’re wanting it. (It may be easier to have a second person hold it for you, if possible.) Once you know where you want it, figure out the best placement for your push pins to hold the branches. I used one for about an inch from the bottom, one at the very top center, and another toward the end of the branches to assist with the curve I was wanting.
8. Take your bottom branch and repeat step 7. I only used two push pins for this branch, but use as many as you need.
9. Step back and look at your wreath. Go in and spread or curve branches as needed.
10. Admire your work and beautifully large wreath that only cost about $20

You can also put a picture frame or a word cutout in the center of this wreath, add flowers, or add more greenery. The possibilities are truly endless!

If you decide to try this, send us a picture on Facebook! We would love to see!

Do You Need A Professional Carpet Cleaner?

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

Professional carpet cleaning for your commercial property in Union, MO.

Having a clean office speaks volumes to your customer when they enter your commercial property. If they cannot maintain their office facility, how will they treat their product or your belongings?

Attempting to clean your commercial carpet on your own may sound like a less expensive option than hiring a professional company, but this can often lead to bad results. For example, it will cost more to replace carpeting that has been damaged beyond repair. This is possible if soils remain too long or are not adequately removed during the cleaning process.

If someone attempts treatment without suspending the soil, the results may be superficial, and make the stain worse in the days to come.

Another problem is when the wrong amount of water is applied to the affected area. This can lead to leftover detergent residue or excess moisture below the surface which can even cause mold! This can cause color or odor damage as well.

A professional should be your first choice when considering a deep cleaning of your faculty.

While regular maintenance is beneficial to the healthfulness and attractiveness of a home or office, a certified technician is necessary to take care of the deep jobs regular vacuuming misses. 

Our staff at SERVPRO of Franklin County is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your work-space look its very best. We will get the job done right. For a cleaning backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 40 years of experience and Professionals trained to the highest standards, call us today. 

Have Questions? Call Today –(636) 583-5200

Hidden Refrigerator Water Damage

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage from a refrigerator line required the hardwood flooring to be removed in this Washington, MO home.

You don’t think about your refrigerator causing water damage to your home, but it’s possible. Take it from a customer (who requested to remain anonymous) and his wife, who didn’t realize their ice maker line had a slow drip that caused much more damage than it appeared. The customer states, “We noticed the hardwood floors buckling in front of the fridge, so we pulled it out and saw it had been leaking behind.” He says it didn’t appear to be too much damage at first adding, “We had some extra floorboards and thought we could just replace the boards under the refrigerator.” But they soon discovered it was a bigger task.

The customer called his insurance, who then contacted SERVPRO of Franklin County. It was discovered that the hardwood had been laid over vinyl flooring, which kept the water from going through to the subfloor, but trapped it between the two layers of flooring and caused damaged to the remaining hardwoods, where the customer thought was dry. He says, “We didn’t expect it to be anywhere else. They had to take up the hardwoods to get to it all. It was about ten foot across the floor.”

SERVPRO of Franklin County was prepared, however, and immediately began the drying process for this Washington, Missouri home. The customer was very happy with how quickly the work began and the communication to him and his wife through the process. “This happened over the Christmas holidays and we were needing to travel out of town. Nate had a key to the house, and we trusted that the job would get done. Everything worked out great! They did a wonderful job!”

Once the water damage was no longer a problem, SERVPRO of Franklin County also completed the reconstruction and laid new flooring. The customer says, “We had to replace flooring and the one we have now is better than before I think.” He states that the process was so smooth, and they felt that SERVPRO did great at keeping them in the loop, educating them, and completing the job. He included, “Nate and the crew did amazing work- over the top! I couldn’t be more please! My wife, who worried a bit, couldn’t be happier! Nate did an excellent job and we both felt reassured.”

He and his wife both feel that their home was in great hands and are quite happy with the work of SERVPRO of Franklin County. They will recommend us to friends and family and keep us in mind for future problems and cleanings.

Do you have a cleaning and restoration company that makes you feel this secure? Contact SERVPRO of Franklin County to see how we can help!

DIY Grout Cleaning HACK

2/9/2020 (Permalink)

Try this simple DIY tile cleaning HACK

Are you ever just cleaning your beautifully tiled floors and get caught staring at the grout…. And become disgusted at how DIRTY they look? And no matter how many times you mop or scrub your floors (or the grout) they just never look quite clean enough.

It’s so frustrating that you go to the store for grout cleaner, only to realize they either want to charge you an arm and a leg OR the list of ingredients is never ending and full of toxic chemicals that you don’t want to use because you will have little's running and crawling around on the floor.

So, what do you do? I mean, you can’t just let the dingy look continue…

Enter this AMAZING grout cleaning hack! And yes, it’s a toxic-free alternative that your kiddos can gladly be around and crawl all over without you having to worry. Heck, they can even eat off the floor after using this!

WHAT? CAN IT BE?

Absolutely! Here are the supplies you will need:

• 1 bucket or gallon container
• 5 cups of water
• ¾ cup of vinegar
• ½ cup of baking soda
• ½ cup of lemon juice
• 1-2 washcloths
• 1 Toothbrush or any type of stiff bristle brush (the stiffer, the better)

First mix the water, lemon juice, and baking soda. Stir until baking soda has dissolved. Then SLOWLY add in your vinegar- very little at a time as it will bubble and foam as it reacts with the baking soda. Once everything is combined, use a washcloth to start applying to the area you are working on and get to scrubbing! You can use a dry washcloth or one that’s been dampened with water to wipe up any extra solution as you go. This cleaning solution is great on any other grout surfaces too, like the shower or a kitchen backsplash.

Tip: For extra fun AND help, let older kiddos (ages 4+) join in on the scrubbing! They will love it more than you can imagine, and it might help you get done quicker.

Try this great hack out and let us see your results! Did you love it? Did your kiddos help?

We want to know how this hack worked for you!

Everything is wonderful!

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

Mold can form in as little as 48 hours. Don't wait, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call if you experience water damage in your home or business.

Water damage can be stressful alone, but when you add in mold growth it can be a nightmare!

That’s how Doris Malone felt when she realized what was happening in her home in Union, MO. They had an upstairs toilet seal that had broken and caused water damage to the upstairs bathroom. They didn’t normally go in the upstairs bathroom, so they had no idea of the issue, nor how long it had been happening.

“We didn’t use that bathroom and there really wasn’t a reason for us to go in there.” This water finally managed to leak down into the main level, which is when they were made aware of the situation. They also discovered mold growth in their basement bathroom. Malone remembers, “I thought ‘oh no!’, I didn’t really know what to think.”

Malone called her insurance agent and they sent an adjuster to her house, who recommended Doris give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call. Malone says that once the crew was on the job she felt much more at ease with the situation, especially since Nate- SERVPRO of Franklin County’s production manager- was able to reassure her. “Nate was on top of it, he was awesome. I could tell they knew what they were doing.”

When asked about the process of drying and reconstruction in their home, Malone states, “It was wonderful. The drying process upstairs took a little longer than I’d hoped, but that was because of how long the leaking had been going on.” She also added that she felt included throughout the whole project and says, “Nate talked to us about everything and was very knowledgeable in leading us through it. And then we used your contractor, Jerry Bosson, and he was great and respectful.”

Doris Malone is quite happy with her home and the finished product. When asked how she felt about it, she said, “Everything is wonderful! We don’t have to worry about it anymore and if it happens again, I know what to do. I know to call you guys! I felt very taken care of.” She also says they recommend us to family and friends after seeing firsthand what we do.

If you have water damage or mold in your home, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call! We are here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

A Silent Cold Weather Killer

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have a CO detector in your home?

You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels it can kill a person in minutes.

Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide (or CO) is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels, like gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, and propane burn incompletely. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, each year more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning.

It is estimated another 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized due to CO poisoning. All people and animals are at risk for CO poisoning, with some groups including unborn babies, infants, and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or respiratory problems being more susceptible to the effects of carbon monoxide.

An excess of CO, leading to CO poisoning, can result from faulty furnaces or other heating appliances, portable generators, water heaters, clothes dryers, or idling cars left running in garages.

Taking some basic, precautionary steps can help eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. One of the easiest steps is to install a CO detector in your home.

Protect yourself by reviewing the following tips provided by the United States Fire Administration.

• Have fuel-burning appliances, like oil and gas furnaces, gas or kerosene heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves inspected by a trained professional every year.
• Open the damper for proper ventilation before using a fireplace. Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home.
• Make sure all fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside to avoid CO poisoning. Keep the venting for exhaust clear and unblocked.
• If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Never run a vehicle or other fueling engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice, or other materials.
• Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris.
• Only use barbecue grills outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings. Some grills can produce CO gas. Never use grills inside the home or the garage, even if the doors are open.
• Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home.

Five stars ALL THE WAY!

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience fire or water damage in your home, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

Gary and his wife arrived at their home in Union, MO. What they saw was a horrific disaster of what used to be their home. They saw water pouring out from the house and could see from outside that the interior had taken quite a lot of fire damage as well. When asked what it felt like to set eyes on that, Gary states, “Oh, I can’t explain. It’s still hard to wrap our heads around almost a year later.”

Gary explains that someone had set fire to the inside of his home. The fire damaged the full interior with fire and smoke damage, but also caused pipes to burst from the intense heat, which ruined any remaining materials. “The entire inside was destroyed. Everything was black from the fire and soot and there was water running out everywhere.”

That’s when they called the professionals to help. When asked how he and his wife came about to calling SERVPRO of Franklin County, Gary stated, “We had used SERVPRO multiple occasions for cleanings and we knew the name well. There was never a second thought on who to call.” His wife and he knew that their home was in good hands.

The SERVPRO crew began by completely gutting the interior of the home, as it was far too damaged. Gary says, “The crew took charge and the removal of smoke odor and materials was remarkable.” Once everything had been properly removed, SERVPRO began to rebuild and restore the home. Gary goes on to praise Dan, a SERVPRO carpenter who led the construction on this job, by saying, “Dan Barnes really knew what he was doing, and I was pleased with how meticulous he was with the details.”

When inquiring about their thoughts on the results of the restoration of his home Gary says, “SERVPRO made the whole transition from the disaster to a great, livable home so easy. We are very pleased with our home.”

We asked Gary if he would recommend SERVPRO of Franklin County to friends and family and he stated “Oh, absolutely! You recently helped my son with water damage in his house caused from a storm.” He even added, “We are very pleased! We give you all five stars ALL THE WAY!”

We are so thankful Gary and his wife chose SERVPRO to help them make it “Like it never even happened,” and that they’re loving their home!

Please give us a call if you experience a disaster in your home!

We are "Here to Help" 24/7: (636) 583-5200

Would Winter Storm Damage Be Covered by Your Insurance?

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

This home was affected by freezing pipes which may or may not have been covered by their insurance.

One of the best ways to protect yourself from being affected by winter storm damage is to take preventive action and be ready before the storm comes. Here are some items to check before winter weather arrives:

• Clean your gutters and downspouts so that melting snow can flow freely from your home.
• Inspect and repair roof shingles and flashing.
• Trim tree branches on your property that could damage your home.
• Apply weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows and inspect doors and windows for broken glass.
• Drain water from pipes leading to exterior faucets and remove garden hoses.
• Insulate pipes that could possibly freeze.
• Have your heating system cleaned and inspected. (We can help there!)

While most insurance polices provide coverage for winter related storm damage from wind, snow, ice, freezing rain and low temperatures, you’ll want to review your policy or contact your insurance agent to find out exactly what is covered or isn’t.

For example, most standard insurance policies do not provide coverage flood damage. If your home as suffered from winter related flooding (such as snow melt) you may not have coverage unless you have a separate flood policy in place.

If you happen to leave your home unattended during the winter for long periods of time, there may be some additional coverage issues. Some policies have exclusions for damages that result from a home not being winterized properly.

Give us a call if you suspect your home has been affected by winter storm damage. We can guide you through the process and make the stressful experience “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today 636-583-5200 we are always available 24/7.

Impressive Water Damage Repair by SERVPRO

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, a fast response is critical. SERVPRO is "Here to Help" 24/7.

After a few days away from his home, William Fambrough came home to see inches of water all over his kitchen floor and leaking into the adjacent rooms. Fambrough said it was “very unnerving” to come home to that. The water had come from a faulty ice maker line to the refrigerator that had broken and been leaking some of the days he’d been away.  

Having never dealt with something like this before, he cleaned up as much water off the floors as he could himself. “I wasn’t really sure what to do, but I got the bulk of the water up.” Then he contacted his insurance company- Beth Bowers Shelter Insurance in Pacific, MO. Fambrough says his agent recommended he contact SERVPRO of Franklin County right away, so he did. “The SERVPRO crew was out quickly the same day I contacted them, and they started the drying process. I was impressed that they made it out so quickly.” 

Fambrough said the process was quick and easy. “The crew worked fast and knew what they were doing.” He also added, “The head of production was very kind and was willing to work with us on everything we needed, and he was very informative.” 

When asked if he’d use SERVPRO of Franklin County again, Fambrough stated, “Of course. They did a great job and made it a painless experience.” 

Knowing that we were able to create such a great customer experience for William Fambrough brings us pride. If YOU have water damage in your home, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call!

Call Us 24/7 – (636) 583-5200

Disasters Can Be Complicated.

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

We are "Here to Help" no matter your disaster.

Disasters can be complicated. It may not always be fire or water damage related, but we are still Here to Help® at SERVPRO of Franklin County when it comes to other situations.

We also provide services for biohazard, crime scene cleanup, and vandalism. These are services you may never think of until a related disaster strikes you or your business. Equipped with the knowledge, experience, and training, SERVPRO of Franklin County will start helping the moment you call.

Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. Our first focus is always safety. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.

When disaster strikes, make sure you have experienced professionals on the line. No matter how big or small, SERVPRO of Franklin County will be ready to help make your Franklin County, MO property damage “Like it never even happened.”

Give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call, 24/7, 7 days a week: (636) 583-5200.

A Deeper Clean

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

If your business is in need of a deeper cleaning, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

Something that may get often overlooked in the office is the cleanliness of the floors. While a janitorial service may sweep and vacuum, the best way to keep your floors looking its best is through regular thorough commercial cleaning.

Not only can this preserve and extend the life of the carpeting, but you also want to find a professional that is thoroughly trained. For example, the professional would receive through an organization like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). SERVPRO of Franklin County is IICRC certified. 

Taking care of your carpet starts with keeping soil and debris from entering the building to begin with. By placing mats in the entries there will be less soil to deal with inside the building. Making sure the floors are vacuumed and cleaned regularly is also the first line of defense. Vacuuming ensures that soil does not penetrate deeply into the fibers and cause damage.

Stains can degrade the integrity of the carpeting, so cleaning professionals must respond to any problem areas quickly. A deeper clean will need to be done regularly to remove soils that are embedded in the

We know as a business owner, you don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your business. Let us know how often you need your business cleaned (or we can suggest times) and we will give you a call to schedule when your cleaning is due.

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

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have Questions? Call Today – (636) 583-5200.

Remembering the 2015 Flood

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

When your home or business experiences flood or water damage, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call. We are "Here to Help".

While you might believe that winter is a safe time from floods, there is always the chance that history may repeat itself. During the new year flooding event in 2015, we saw many flooded homes in the historic event. We were there to help our neighbors in Franklin County, MO then, and we are even more ready to help now for 2019-2020 year. We have added more equipment, vehicles, completed more training and even added onto our building!

What can you do if history repeats itself? You can always prepare with the SERVPRO ERP. Give our office a call and we can help get you started.

Flood water can be one of the most frightening problems to face. Preventing water from entering your home or business is difficult, if not impossible during high water flooding events. However, if your home or business does face flooding damage, it’s best to follow these tips:

• Be on the lookout for wild animals, including snakes. Floodwaters tend to uproot them from their natural areas.
• While cleaning up, wear protective gear such as boots and rubber gloves. The water is contaminated and can be considered hazardous.
• Discard food items and drinking water if it has come into contact with the flood waters. This includes canned goods and bottled water.
• Remove all soaked and dirty materials and debris, including wet insulation and drywall, residual mud and soil, furniture, appliances, clothing and bedding.
• Follow the maxim: When in doubt, throw it out!
• Remove any standing water and dry out the flooded area. Once the water is gone, use airmovers and a dehumidifier to dry out the area.
• Disinfect - A disinfectant will help to kill bacteria that may be present.
• Inhibit mold growth - After applying a disinfectant, apply an anti-mold spray to the area while wearing a mask for protection.
• Dispose of damaged items - Check with the city’s waste management department to find out where to recycle chemicals such as paint and other toxic liquids, as well as electronics.
• Flood clean-up after high water ravages a home or business is typically a burdensome and demanding task, this is just a few steps of a extensive process. It may also involve some danger, so safety concerns must take precedence.

Cleaning up after a flooding event can be a daunting task, that’s why it’s good to give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call. We are trained to handle these events and can make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you need help restoring your home or business, we are always here to help. (636) 583-5200

SERVPRO Document Restoration Services

12/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is "Here to Help" if your business experiences a fire. Our document restoration services can help you get back to business.

SERVPRO knows timely mitigation is key to reducing severity and recovering damaged items. As a leader in the restoration industry, we know water or smoke damaged paper can rapidly deteriorate. Without using the proper handling, files and irreplaceable documents can be lost forever. Let SERVPRO help you recover your damaged paper goods before it is too late.

Our technicians are trained to use the most advanced technology for document recover and drying. In fact, we use the same technique as the Library of Congress uses to dry water-damaged books.

Why choose SERVPRO® Vacuum Freeze Drying?

Vacuum freeze drying is the most efficient and effective way to salvage water-damaged documents. The Document Restoration Team uses sublimation—turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage to avoid causing more damage to the documents. This process can recover even the most delicate items—from documents to photographs and x-rays, to entire business archives. All employees of the Document Restoration Team are HIPAA Master certified and once your items arrive at the SERVPRO® facility, 24/7 video surveillance is guaranteed.

Digitizing

With the new age of technology, digitizing records and documents has become a standard practice in most industries. This eliminates the need to have massive file storage rooms and allows us to access records at the click of a button. If your file room was damaged by water or smoke and needs to be cleaned, dried or decontaminated, digitizing might be a good choice to eliminate the need to have hundreds or even thousands of documents and records in storage.

Gamma Irradiation

Gamma irradiation is a process used for cleaning/disinfecting and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods. In a CAT 3 situation (sewage or flood water), documents are not only deteriorating but are also infected with all types of bacteria. In most storm situations, you are dealing with CAT 3 water; therefore, most of the affected documents you encounter will be contaminated. If this is the case, decontamination is always a must. In living cells, these disruptions result in damage to the DNA and other cellular structures. These photo induced changes at the molecular level cause the death of the organism or render the organism incapable of reproduction. The gamma process does not create residuals or impart radioactivity in processed products.

Certified Destruction

Unfortunately, many businesses and government agencies have to dispose of counterfeit, faulty, expired or contaminated materials. All entities need to be certified that their products and materials are destroyed. The guarantee of certified destruction is to protect one’s liabilities, brand image or proprietary information. We guarantee certified destruction to give you peace of mind that your documents are disposed of properly.

SERVPRO’s goal is to make the process as simple as possible for customers. Contact SERVPRO of Franklin County for more information on Document Restoration services.

Heating Your Home Safely

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

If you experience a fire due to heating equipment, know that SERVPRO of Franklin County is "Here to Help' restore your home 24/7.

Now that winter is here brining shorter days and lower temperatures, you will be using your heat sources more often. To keep our homes and workplaces cozy, many people use fireplaces, space heaters, and wood burning stoves.

Did you know, heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths? According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment fires cause an estimated $1 billion in direct property damage annually. Keep the following safety tips in mind to help reduce your risk of a heating-related fire.

• Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or a portable space heater. Have a three foot “kid-free zone” around open fi res and space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room.  Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel  burning space heaters.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Test smoke alarms monthly.

If your property does suffer fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County. Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property. 

We will help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Are You Winter Weather Ready?

11/14/2019 (Permalink)

 While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather. To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to help ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate a potential flood hazard.
• 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.
• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
• Ask us about completing an Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no-cost assessment of your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business faster following a disaster.

When winter weather strikes, call SERVPRO of Franklin County to strike back.

Smelly Microwave? How to Clean a Stinky Microwave

11/14/2019 (Permalink)

Need odor removal? SERVPRO is "Here to Help"!

Smelly microwave? If you’ve burnt popcorn or experienced an “explosion” – it’s common to find yourself with a bit of a “smelly situation” when you open your microwave door.

Microwaves are made of heavy-duty plastic and are prone to lock in odors. It can sometimes be difficult to remove them. Luckily, we have a solution that may work for you!

Process to Clean a Stinky Microwave

A method to try when facing an odor filled microwave is using white vinegar.

Follow the steps below to help remove the odor:

1. Wipe visible food and splatters out of the microwave.
2. Bring 1-cup water and 3 tablespoons white vinegar to boil in the microwave.
3. Turn off the microwave and leave the door closed for 10 minutes to let the steam cover all interior surfaces.
4. Wipe the inside of the microwave with a damp, clean cloth.
5. Leave the door open for an hour to let the appliance air out.

Preventing a Stinky Microwave

What can you do to prevent a smelly microwave? Clean it often! We recommend at least once a month, but whenever you have a “microwave mishap”, be sure to clean it up right away!

Be sure to wipe down the interior of the microwave and be sure to wipe any spills and remove any left-over debris. If you have any stubborn leftovers, use two parts baking soda and one-part water and let it set on the stubborn stain for about 5 minutes. Use a sponge and you should be able to remove that stubborn food residue. 

Another method is to use a lemon (sliced in half) and a tablespoon of water in the microwave for one minute. Use a rag of paper towel and wipe the steam from the door and sides. The lemon works as a natural deodorizer.

Choose SERVPRO for Odor Removal

If your home or business has an odor, from smoke to mold or any other type of smell, you need the odor removal experts.

SERVPRO of Franklin County is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. These odors can come from several sources both inside and outside a structure.

We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor, and determining the conditions where it contacts surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call, and leave the restoration to us.

Call us today for an estimate: (636) 583-5200

Reappearing Carpet Stains

11/14/2019 (Permalink)

Do you have reappearing carpet stains? Trust the professional with SERVPRO of Franklin County to clean your carpets.

Have you ever had a carpet stain reappear after cleaning?

You scrub and scrub and believe the stain has been removed, then come back the next day to find the stain back – although slightly faded.

Why does this happen? What can you do about it?

Why Do Stains Reappear?

When you complete DIY caret cleaning, you are likely dealing with soiling or wicking. When your cup of coffee meets the carpet on the family room floor, you immediately stop and treat the carpet. The stain goes away but returns later. Why?

The stains aren’t reappearing, the stain was never removed thoroughly to begin with.

Wicking is the result of a stain that soaked through the carpet backing and into the padding and subfloor. While the visible stain may have been removed, the spill in the padding makes it way back into the carpet through reabsorption. Wicking is what can make pet odor difficult to impossible to remove completely without removing the pad and treating the subfloor.

Soiling happens when residue is left over from when you cleaned. Maybe you were in a hurry and used dirty water, maybe you did not rinse the cleaned area, and it attracted more dirt.

Can You Prevent Reappearing Carpet Stains?

You can prevent soiling by making sure to use a clean, white towel and sitting it over the freshly cleaned area along with a paperweight to hold it down and absorb moisture.

The best way to prevent reappearing carpet stains is to have them treated by a professional. While not all stains can be successfully removed, we have a high rate of success removing difficult to clean stains on your carpet. DIY methods can damage your carpet fibers and often does not treat the stain fully.

SERVPRO of Franklin County Professional Carpet Cleaning

If you need your carpet cleaned in your home or business, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call. Our professional cleaning can address moderate and heavy soil conditions in your carpet.

We will get the job done right. For a cleaning backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 40 years of experience and Professionals trained to the highest standards, call us today: (636) 583-5200.

Faster to any size disaster

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Whatever the disaster, SERVPRO of Franklin County is there when you need help.

The teams at SERVPRO® are ready for any disaster, big or small.

And they understand what may be small in the grand scheme of things may be huge to you, and they’re ready to help you put your life, business, or property back together “Like it never even happened.”

What can you do to be READY? Be prepared at your home or business with an Emergency Kit. Ready.gov suggests you have enough supplies to last for at least three days. Below are some suggested items to include in your kit:

• 3-day supply of nonperishable foods Water (one+ gallon per person per day)
• First-aid kit
• Prescription medication
• Sleeping bag or blankets
• Fire extinguisher
• Hygiene products
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries
• Cell phone charger
• Change of clothes
• Matches in waterproof container
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Whistle to signal for help
• Pet supplies
• Infant formula and diapers
• Important documents such as insurance policies, IDs, and bank records in a plastic container

You can also keep a condensed emergency kit in your vehicle as well.

For a more extensive list, check out Ready.gov.

Whatever the disaster, SERVPRO® of Franklin County is there when you need help, 24/7/365.

Cooking Up a Safe Holiday Season

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds quickly to your fire or water damage emergency.

SERVPRO of Franklin County - Fire Damage Restoration Specialist Offers Franklin County, MO Families Tips on Cooking Up a Safe Holiday Season

Startling statistics underscore the need for caution in the kitchen.

Union, MO (Grassroots Newswire) 11/06/2019 -- Holiday party planning begins now for many families, and Jerry Alvey of SERVPRO of Franklin County, MO offers some important reminders to Union, MO residents to help ensure this season glows with the warmth of good food and good friends, and not with the glare of a devastating home fire.

“The holiday season is a time when many families plan big and elaborate meals for large groups of people,” says Alvey. “But all that cooking creates an extraordinary risk of fire. For a safe and festive holiday season, it’s important to understand that risk and take steps to minimize it.”

Cooking Fire Safety NFPA research reveals that in 2016, on average, U.S. fire departments responded to a home fire every 90 seconds. Cooking fires were the leading cause of these home fires and related home fire injuries and the second leading cause of related home fire deaths. Unattended cooking was the leading contributing factor in these fires.¹

“Union, MO families should keep these statistics in mind as the holidays approach. According to the NFPA, Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by the day before Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and Christmas Eve²,” says Alvey. “Families should also be aware that frying poses the greatest risk of fire, in fact, the NFPA discourages the use of outdoor gas-fueled turkey fryers that immerse the turkey in hot oil^.3 This video graphically illustrates the danger these devices can pose.” https://youtu.be/j3rF8F0JQRQ.

Alvey offers these additional cooking safety tips from FEMA’s U.S. Fire Administration.⁴

1. Keep an eye on what you fry: If you see any smoke or the oil starts to boil, turn the burner off.
2. Stand by your pan: If you leave the kitchen, turn the burner off.
3. Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so that no one can bump them or pull them over.
4. Wear short sleeves or pull sleeves up: 18 percent of cooking fire fatalities in 2016 were caused by ignited clothing.²
5. Keep a pot lid or cookie sheet nearby to cover a pan if it catches on fire.

“Taking common sense precautions like these and keeping kids and pets out of the kitchen during meal prep can help keep your holiday celebrations safe,” says Alvey. “The precautions you take could help prevent a devastating home fire, a tragic injury, or even the loss of life. While SERVPRO disaster response professionals are fire damage restoration specialists, they know how important it is to keep the focus on fire prevention, because for some types of loss, there is no remediation.”

SERVPRO is an industry leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services. For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit www.SERVPRO.com.

For more information on SERVPRO of Franklin County, please contact Jerry Alvey at 636-583-5200 or jerry@SERVPROoffranklincounty.com.

Citations

1. https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/News-and-Research/Fire-statistics/Factsheets/FireLossFacts.pdf
2. https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/News-and-Research/Fire-statistics/Factsheets/CookingFactSheet.pdf
3. https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Cooking/Turkey-fryers
4. https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/cooking.html

###

About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Flood Damage Restoration Recommendations for Uninsured Losses

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County is here to help with your water damage, please give us a call 24/7.

It is never too soon to start to consider what steps need to be taken especially when you don’t have adequate insurance for water damage.

The following recommendations assume a flooding situation with horizontally traveling Category 3 (unsanitary) water containing silt and other contaminants have infiltrated into homes and businesses to a depth of a few inches or feet and remained for multiple days.  When structures are completely submerged or remain substantially flooded for several weeks, more elaborate procedures may be required.

1. Foremost, consider safety:
   1. Evacuatepotentially respiratory or immune-compromised, or non-essential persons (e.g., children, the elderly, pregnant women; those recovering from extended illness or surgery, or those on regimens of prescription drugs or chemotherapy). When medical questions arise, consult with public health professionals.
   2. Before entering a heavily flood-damaged structure, open windows and doors and air it out thoroughly. Ventilation must be maintained during and following the restoration effort. This reduces but does not eliminate, the potential for inhaling pathogenic (disease causing) microorganisms.  Also, allow as much sunlight into the structure as practical, since fresh air and ultraviolet light help inhibit microorganism growth.
   3. Consider the structural integrity of a damaged building before entering. Wear protective clothing, boots with steel or fiberglass shanks, and a hard hat.  Have the building checked by a qualified builder or structural engineer when in doubt.
   4. Ensure that electrical shock hazards have been eliminated. Consult a licensed and qualified electrician when questions arise.
   5. Protect yourself from pathogenic microorganisms.Wear protective gloves before handling contaminated materials.  Splash goggles should be worn to protect and prevent microorganism entry through the eyes.  A vapor respirator (paint respirator) should be worn to prevent inhalation of most microorganisms or spores.
2. Remove quantities of debris(silt, vegetation, floating objects) with shovels, rakes or any safe means practical. Clean and sanitize all tools when complete.
3. Remove and dispose of drywall (Sheetrock^®), paneling or other wall materialsup to a point 15-24″ inches above the visible water line. If practical, stay within four feet of the floor to salvage as much wall material as practical since drywall is usually installed horizontally in 4’x8’ or 4’x12’ panels.
4. Remove and dispose of insulation materialsexposed during wall removal. Look for evidence of moisture wicking up insulation materials.  Leave only materials that are durable, dry and minimally porous, and which can be cleaned and decontaminated with relative ease.
5. Remove and dispose of carpet, cushion, pad, felt and sheet vinyl, or laminate flooring materials. Porous materials may absorb considerable quantities of water and contaminant, and non-porous materials may trap moisture to prolong drying.  The inevitable result will be rapid microbial growth, along with associated odor and potential health hazards.  Solid wood flooring should be removed since contaminants and moisture collect underneath in hollow areas between the wood and subfloor. The following procedures may require the assistance of a professional water-damage restorer, who has specialized biocides, and application and extraction equipment, if available.
6. While maintaining ventilation and respiratory protection, liberally spray durable salvageable materials (e.g., studs, decking, joists) with appropriate biocides.Household chlorine bleach (e.g., Clorox^®) mixed 1 part bleach to 11 parts water (½%) may be used on durable, colorfast surfaces.  Never mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or strong acids!
7. Following application of properly diluted biocides, brush agitate all areasto remove visible soils and to encourage biocide penetration into cracks and crevices. Professional restorers use pressurized spraying to accomplish this step.
8. When fresh water is restored within the structure, flush contaminants from salvageable surfaces with a water hose or pressure washer.Work from top to bottom and from walls to flooring.
9. Wet vacuum or mop up excess rinse water from flooring materials immediately.Thoroughly flush all contamination from wall frames.  Pressure washing, if available, is specifically recommended to flush contaminants from hard-to-access areas, following contaminated water removal with industrial wet vacuuming equipment.
10. Repeat steps 6-9 as necessary, until all surfaces are clean and contamination is physically removed.
11. Lightly spray a final application of an approved non-chlorinated disinfectant to all salvageable surfaces.
12. Dry structural components with plenty of air circulation, while maintaining constant ventilation (weather conditions permitting). If practical, take advantage of low outside humidity (check local weather reports).  Use oscillating or box fans, moving them around the structure every few hours.  Avoid temperature extremes that might slow drying or promote microorganism growth (68-86^oF/20-30^oC is ideal for growth).  Rent high-volume professional drying equipment (airmovers and dehumidifiers) if available, especially in areas where ventilation is not possible (sealed buildings, security issues).  All electrical components that were below the water line should be checked for operational safety by a qualified contractor.
13. Leave cleaned structural surfaces exposed for several days or even weeks, or until you are sure that they have returned to within four percentage points of normal moisture content (generally the normal moisture content of structural wood is around 10%). Otherwise, subsequent structural damage and health hazards can result after wall and flooring materials have been replaced or painted.
14. Durable, colorfast contents (e.g., washable clothing, dishes, glassware, furniture) might be salvageable if washed in warm detergent solutions. Common sense and caution should be used in determining contents salvageability.

Where financial resources permit, comprehensive restoration should be accomplished by trained, Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Water Damage Restoration Technicians.  To prevent mold growth on structural materials, property owners should consider hiring a professional restorer to evaluate moisture levels in structural materials before reconstruction.

From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings

Please call us for more information regarding floor or water damage cleanup.

Is Duct Cleaning Worth It?

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for your air duct cleaning needs.

Did you know, that investing in regular air duct cleaning can reduce indoor allergens like dust, pollen and pet dander? Air duct cleaning is vital to the cleanliness of the air you breathe in.

Why Is Duct Cleaning Important?

The ducts in your furnace / air conditioner constantly collect dirt, dust and danger while in operation and even while idle. When you turn your system on, the particles can spread around in your home or business.

SERVPRO of Franklin County provides residential and commercial air duct cleaning that can improve the air quality in your Franklin County, MO home or business.

How Often Do I Need My Air Ducts Cleaned?

It is recommended to get your air ducts cleaned evert three to five years. However, if you have elderly family, young children, pets, or allergies it may be beneficial to clean your air ducts more often. Typically, if you see a lot of dust gathering on furniture items after just cleaning them, it can be a sign that your air ducts need cleaning.

Signs You Should Clean Your Air Ducts

If you are still uncertain if your air ducts need to be cleaned, here are some signs that you can look for:

• Mold
  • If you see mold in or near your air ducts, you should immediately call SERVPRO of Franklin County for an inspection. We can seal and clean your air ducts as well as mold remediation to take care of any issues you may have.
• Dust
  • As previously stated, if you find yourself constantly dusting your home, dust and debris in your ducts could be to blame. This can be a sign that your ducts need to be cleaned soon.
• Pets
  • While pets are a great addition to any family, they leave dander and fur in your home. The duct system draws in this dander and allergens each time you use your air conditioner or heater. This can cause your air duct system to require cleaning more often.
• Pests
  • If you find pests in your home, they could be using your duct system to get around. Air duct cleaning can remove the waste that pests leave behind.

Call SERVPRO of Franklin County for Your Air Duct Cleaning Needs

If you have additional questions about air duct cleaning services for your Franklin County, MO home or business, please give us a call (636) 583-5200. We are here to help!  We will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your system.

When they call you, call SERVPRO®

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

When they call you, call SERVPRO. We’re Fire and Water Damage Specialists.

Mitigation requires quick action.

The faster SERVPRO of Franklin County arrives on-site to perform fire, smoke, and soot cleanup and restoration, the better the results— including lower claim costs.

Within four hours of a loss notification, SERVPRO of Franklin County will be on-site to help ensure a fire damage is handled properly by utilizing the following services:

Structural Cleaning

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. SERVPRO® will pretest to determine the extent of damage, then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found within the structure.

Contents Cleaning

All the restorable contents in the affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery. SERVPRO can provide wet or dry-cleaning services. Additionally, all other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, and much more. Finally, SERVPRO of Franklin County can provide an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items.

Deodorization

SERVPRO® of Franklin County provides specialized services that rid your insured’s home or place of business of offensive odors left behind by fire or smoke damage. We do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; we seek out the sources of the odor and remove them.  

If your business experiences fire or water damage, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

We’re here to help 24/7, 7 days a week: (636) 583-5200.

Every Second Counts

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

A fire can happen at any time. Every second counts, so be READY and make a plan today.

Every second counts during a fire. Fire experts agree; people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out.* In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place.

A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families and businesses have developed and practiced a fire escape plan. Once a plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home or office understands the plan.

The best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building an escape plan, and then practicing it.

The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan.

• Draw a map of each level of your home or business and show all the doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room.
• Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.
• Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they will be used.
• Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped.
• Make sure to mark the location of the meeting area on your escape plan. Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them.
• Plan for everyone in your home or office, with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals.
• Practice your fire escape plan during the day and at nighttime.

 *Tips and statistics provided by the American Red Cross

Halloween Safety On and Off the Road

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

Stay safe this Halloween season with these safety tips!

Kids love Halloween! It’s a fun time of year for trick-or-treating, parties and trip to a neighborhood haunted house. For parents, often there is a fine line between fun and safety concerns, especially when it comes to road and pedestrian safety.

In 2017, 7,450 pedestrians died in traffic or non-traffic incidents, according to Injury Facts. Non-traffic incidents include those occurring on driveways, in parking lots or on private property.

NSC research reveals almost 18% of these deaths occurred at road crossings or intersections. Lack of visibility because of low lighting at night also plays a factor in these deaths.

Here's a scary statistic: Children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. In 2017, October ranked No. 2 in motor vehicle deaths by month, with 3,700. July is No. 1, with 3,830 deaths.

Costume Safety

To help stay safe during the holiday, the American Academy of Pediatrics has compiled a list of safety tips. Before Halloween comes, be sure to choose a costume that won’t cause any safety hazards.

To help ensure adults and children have a safe holiday, the American Academy of Pediatrics has compiled a list of Halloween safety tips. Before Halloween arrives, be sure to choose a costume that won't cause safety hazards.

• All costumes, wigs and accessories should be fire-resistant
• Avoid masks, which can obstruct vision
• If children are allowed out after dark, fasten reflective tape to their costumes and bags, or give them glow sticks
• When buying Halloween makeup, make sure it is nontoxic and always test it in a small area first
• Remove all makeup before children go to bed to prevent skin and eye irritation
• When They're on the Prowl
• A responsible adult should accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds
• If your older children are going alone, plan and review a route acceptable to you
• Agree on a specific time the kids should return home
• Teach your children never to enter a stranger's home or car
• Instruct children to travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends
• Tell your children not to eat any treats until they return home
• Children and adults are reminded to put electronic devices down, keep heads up and walk, don't run, across the street

Safety Tips for Motorists

NSC offers these additional safety tips for parents – and anyone who plans to be on the road during trick-or-treat hours:

• Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully
• At twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing
• Discourage new, inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween

Source: http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/halloween-safety.aspx

What is Dry Rot?

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

Do you have dry rot in your home?

Would you know if your home had dry rot?

Dry rot can happen to any time or wood and in any climate. It can ruin the structure of your home, and is most commonly found in attics, basements, and under sinks.

What causes dry rot?

Despite the word “dry” in its name the fungus that causes dry rot grows when the moisture in the wood exceeds 20% or when the wood is exposed to sitting water and extreme humidity. Dry rot can leave wood weak and brittle.

The primary clues to look for in dry rot:

• Yellow tinge to the surface
• Deep cracks in the wood
• Wood will crumble

Since moisture is necessary for the fungus to grow, you can typically find dry rot when:

• After a flood or natural disaster
• After a plumbing accident or water damage
• In humid climates
• When wood is not properly dried

How can I protect my home from dry rot?

• Have a roofing company inspect your roof annually to check for leaks or holes that can let water in and cause dry rot.
• Make sure your gutters are installed properly and are directing water away from your home.
• Check your plumbing to make sure you don’t have any noticed leaks.
• Make sure your ventilation in bathrooms, kitchen and attics is working properly and can remove excess moisture from your home.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Franklin County?

Properly restoring your home after a water damage event requires specialized equipment and products. This advanced equipment helps us to remove the water, even hidden moisture, quickly and efficiently. We then dry the structure with powerful dehumidifiers. We provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (636) 583-5200

Keep Fall Fire Free

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Keep fall fire free with these safety tips from the NFPA.

The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, and an abundance of outdoor activities. Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe and fire-free.

• Fall decorations, like dried flowers and cornstalks, are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.
• Keep emergency exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.
• Teach children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.
• Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume. Consider avoiding billowing fabric. If you are making your costume, choose material that won’t easily ignite if it comes into contact with heat or a flame.
• It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candle in a jacko-lantern. Use extreme caution if using a real candle. Place lit pumpkins away from anything that can burn and out of the way of doorsteps, walkways, and yards.

Information provided by the National Fire Protection Association, nfpa.org. Visit their website for more information on being safe this season.  

Fire Prevention Month

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

Visit www.nfpa.org for more information on fire prevention and preparation.

October is Fire Prevention Month and an excellent time to examine the emergency preparedness plans for your home and business, including your fire escape plan.

• Do you have a fire escape plan?
• Have you changed your smoke alarm batteries within the last year?
• Are you prepared if a disaster strikes?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets aside a designated week each October to focus on fire prevention. The 2019 theme is "Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice your Escape!"

According to the NFPA, once the fire alarm goes off, "you could have less than one to two minutes to escape safely," yet only 8 percent of people surveyed said getting out was their first thought after hearing a fire alarm.

Creating, implementing, and practicing a fire escape plan for your home or business may be the difference between safety and tragedy.

Make a plan today! Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have, giving everyone in your home or business enough time to get out.

How do you define a hero? Is it a person who is courageous and performs good deeds? Someone who comes to the aid of others, even at their own personal risk? A hero can be all of those things! A hero can also be someone who takes small but important actions to keep themselves and those around them safe from fire.

When it comes to fire safety, be a hero in your household or community. SERVPRO of Franklin County wants you to stay safe, informed, and prepared to help ensure you are ready for any disaster that comes your way. Give us a call to learn about our Emergency Ready Profile. (636) 583-5200.

Where is my Water Shut-off Valve Located?

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

Do you know where your water shut-off valve is located?

Do you know where your main water shut-off valve is located?

It’s important to know where it is in case of an emergency. If a pipe bursts or a toilet overflows, shutting off the water can help reduce water damage. Sometimes homeowners will shut off their water if they are leaving town or replacing plumbing as a precaution.

The location of your water shut-offs can vary, depending on location, water source and type of residence. Shut-off valves can be hard to find, so grab a flashlight.

More Than One Shut-Off Valve

There are usually more than one shut-off valve in your home – once for each appliance that uses water and a main shut-off for the entire home.

Shut-off valves are usually located near the item that needs the water supply, for instance your valves for your toilet, sink, or washing machine are usually behind the units or under the sink.

For example, if your toilet is going to overflow, don’t waste time running to the main shut-off, use the knob behind the toilet.

Main Valve Locations

If you have well water, you may have two main shut-off valves, one that goes from the well to the pressure tank and another from the tank to your plumbing. If you need to shut off the well quickly, you can trip the circuit breaker to the well to deactivate the well pump.

If you have city water, your valve may be located in your homes utility room, along with the furnace or water heater. It may also be located in a plastic or utility box in the ground in front of your home.

Too late for the shut-off valve?

If your home or business has experienced water damage, SERVPRO of Franklin County can help.

If your home has water damage from flooding, a leaking pipe, or other source, you need the company that can respond immediately and has the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. We use advanced water damage inspection and extraction equipment to help find the moisture and to remove it as quickly as possible. Our highly trained technicians will monitor and document the drying process so that you know your property is back to normal.

Please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

If you have water damage, give us a call 24/7, 7 days a week. We are “Here to help”. (636) 583-5200.

Should you hire a carpet cleaning for your Franklin County, MO commercial building?

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

We are "Here to Help" clean your commercial building, give us a call today!

Carpet cleaning is important to maintaining the overall comfort and monetary value of a property. Any type of flooring is an investment for the business owner. Keeping the investment in the best shape takes a professional  and should be the first choice when dealing with any kind of carpet damage.

The only reason someone would attempt treatment on their own is to save money, and this usually leads to bad results. It will, for example, cost much more to replace carpeting that has been damaged beyond repair, and this is possible if soils are allowed to remain for too long, or if they aren’t adequately removed during the cleaning process. 

If someone attempts treatment without suspending the soil, the results will only be superficial, and may make the situation worse in the days to come. This is just one example.

Do-it-yourselfers often have trouble applying the right amount of water to the affected area, which can lead to leftover detergent residue, or excess moisture below the surface, providing the perfect breeding ground for mold. Business owners attempting treatment on their own frequently cause color or odor damage during treatment as well, usually as a result of using an unsafe detergent. 

There are health concerns that can arise from any unsanitary environment as well, and it can be surprising to learn what survives in and under the flooring. Allergens that are left behind can lead to serious health problems for family members and even household pets. Proper techniques can reduce or eliminate allergens in the environment, improving the health of the occupants.

A carpet cleaning technician should always be trained and educated in proper techniques. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the accepted industry leader in floor maintenance and restoration. The non-profit organization ensures technicians remain competitive and that consumers receive better service. 

While regular maintenance is beneficial to the healthfulness and attractiveness of a home or office, a certified technician is necessary to take care of the really deep jobs regular vacuuming misses. 

Consumers often find it difficult to choose a professional company for those important household chores. The benefits of carpet cleaning are numerous, but knowing who can be trusted is not always easy. The IICRC provides continuing education and demands higher standards for its technicians.

Our staff at SERVPRO of Franklin County is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best. We will get the job done right. For a cleaning backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 40 years of experience and Professionals trained to the highest standards, call us today. 

Have Questions? Call Today –(636) 583-5200

Science of Drying – What it means for your business

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

No matter the size of loss, we are here to help.

The science behind the drying process.

Psychometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged business to preloss condition. While grabbing a few towels to clean up the mess might be your initial reaction, it doesn’t necessarily resolve all the damage. Our crew is trained in the science of drying and use strict industry approved methods. This can help reduce down time for your business and prevent secondary damage.

If you Franklin County, MO business suffers a water damage, here’s what you can expect:

· Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening.

· Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.

· Use professional drying equipment.

At SERVPRO of Franklin County, we know that you need prompt service and want your business to be taken care of – the right way. Commercial cleaning and restoration present unique challenges. You need a company that provides excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. 

There's never a convenient time for water damage to strike your business. 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. 

We provide free estimates and are happy to go over the drying process with your specific needs

The bottom line? SERVPRO of Franklin County has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why Take the Risk? Call SERVPRO of Franklin County today. (636) 583-5200

National Preparedness

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

Work together as a team to ensure that we are ready for any type of disaster that can affect our Franklin County, MO community.

As a business owner, insurer, or property manager, you are a leader in your community and can set an example for your employees, customers and community to follow.

This year for National Preparedness Month (NPM), join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types, and lead efforts to encourage the community to become more prepared.

“Disasters happen” and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities, including businesses of all sizes. The 2019 theme for National Preparedness Month is Prepared, Not Scared. Be Ready for Disasters. You can become prepared for a disaster by taking three simple steps:

• Have a plan to stay in business
• Encourage your employees to become ready
• Protect your investment

We must work together as a team to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship, and neighborhoods are ready for any type of disaster that can potentially affect Franklin County, MO.

At Ready.gov/business, companies like yours can find vital information on how to begin preparing their organization and addressing their unique needs during an emergency.

You can also contact SERVPRO of Franklin County find out more on how to be ready when disaster strikes with the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Program. We are “Here to help”!

Like summer never even happened!

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Have SERVPRO restore your home after summer shenanigans.

It’s back to school time, which means the kids are finally out of the house! With your nest empty, it’s a perfect time to have cleaning and restoration services done on your home.

SERVPRO of Franklin County offers several services to get your home back into pre-summer conditions,... before it was torn up by your children. Have your kids spent the summer tracking in dirt, mud and other unknown substances into the house?

Then it might be time to get your carpets cleaned. SERVPRO offers a three-room special for $125, and just $25 for each additional room.

If you are noticing the air quality of your home is less than stellar – whether the air circulated is full of dust, dander or other chemicals -- an air duct cleaning may be in order.  According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association, it is recommended to have air ducts cleaned every three to five years.

Getting your air ducts cleaned will not only improve the quality of air in your home, but it can also help decrease the cost of energy bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating or cooling a home is wasted.

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’s pricing for home duct cleanings are $375 for 1-8 openings, and $475 for 9-17 openings.

Another service you might need is mold mitigation. If you have noticed mold in your home, it’s important to stop the spreading immediately.

Containing mold spores is vital to preventing mold growth, as well as getting wet surfaces dry. Mold begins to set in after two days, so there’s no time to wait.

With the kids out of the house, it’s the perfect time to get your home back in order. Give SERVPRO a call, and we’ll make your house look like summer never even happened!

Three Categories of Water Damage

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

When you were little, did you ever play in puddles of water around drains or ditches? While it may have been fun, water such as this can be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, and bacteria that can transmit dangerous diseases. For the same reason, caution must be used when handling water damage.

Category of Water Determines Restoration Process

Water that invades your home or business can be harmful. Did you know there are there categories of water? The type of water determines how the restoration process is preformed and what precautions need to be taken. Obviously, a sewer backup versus a leaky pipe would be handled very differently.

Category 1: "Clean Water"

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet. If left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3 water depending upon such factors as time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

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

Category 2: "Gray Water"

This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category 2 water may include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

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

Trust the Professionals at SERVPRO of Franklin County

You can rest assured that our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, to weekly training in our training center located at our office in Union, MO, you can count on our stuff being equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes
• Weekly training in our training center

If you have questions about recent water damage for your Franklin County, MO home or business, please give us a call (636) 583-5200. We are “Here to Help” 24/7, 7 days a week.

A Small Disaster

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage? No matter the size of your disaster, we are here to help.

A little water is no big deal - right?

Not exactly.

There’s no such thing as a small disaster—especially when the water you don’t see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot, and other unseen damage.

Water damage can affect the value of your property. Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage can affect your residential & commercial property.

SERVPRO of Franklin County knows how disruptive water damage can be for your business.

We are trained and equipped to manage the drying process from start to finish. By utilizing the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, your home or business will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards, which will help prevent secondary damages!

With rapid response time and a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO® of Franklin County can help you regain control quickly, by helping to ensure your facility and its contents are properly dried, deodorized and protected.

Before you risk further damaging the value of your residential or commercial facility by attempting to clean the mess yourself, call your Franklin County, MO water damage cleanup and restoration professionals at SERVPRO®.  

CARBON MONOXIDE: A SILENT KILLER

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Carbon Monoxide. Stay safe with these tips.

You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels, it can kill a person in minutes. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide (or

CO) is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels, like gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, and propane burn incompletely.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, each year more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning. It is estimated another 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized due to CO poisoning.

All people and animals are at risk for CO poisoning, with some groups— including unborn babies, infants and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or respiratory problems— being more susceptible to the effects of carbon monoxide.

An excess of CO, leading to CO poisoning, can result from faulty furnaces or other heating appliances, portable generators, water heaters, clothes dryers or idling cars left running in garages.

Taking some basic, precautionary steps can help eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Protect yourself by reviewing the following tips provided by the United States Fire Administration.

•  Have fuel-burning appliances, like oil and gas furnaces, gas or kerosene heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves inspected by a trained professional every year.
• Open the damper for proper ventilation before using a fireplace. Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home.
• Make sure all fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside to avoid CO poisoning. Keep the venting for exhaust clear and unblocked.
• If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Never run a vehicle or other fueling engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice, or other materials.
• Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris.
• Only use barbecue grills outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings. Some grills can produce CO gas. Never use grills inside the home or the garage, even if the doors are open.
• Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home.

Checking your property for damage

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage? SERVPRO is "Here to Help"!

Storms can bring heavy rains, strong winds and destructive hail. Your home protects you from the elements, so be sure to check it for damage afterward. It’s a good idea to check your property even if you do not suspect damage. This can help prevent more problems later on and determine if you need to make an insurance claim.

Roof
Your roof can be very vulnerable, because so many things can damage it. High winds, downed tree branches or a hailstorm, look for these indicators of damage:

• Holes in the roof
• Split Seams
• Missing Shingles
• Leaks in roof or ceiling

Exteriors

Siding, stucco and brick are all durable but they can suffer storm damage. Check for:

• Cracking, chipping or ding and dents on siding. Check in different lighting because you may see something you missed.
• Holes in stucco
• Damaged brick and tuck pointing.
• Detached or damaged trim, gutters, etc.
  
  

General Tips

• Severe storms often will knock down power lines. If this happens on your property, rope off 30 feet in each direction around the line and do not touch it. Call 911 and the power company immediately.
• Be sure to do a full check of your property, including things such as your air-conditioning unit, fences, vent caps, etc. And don’t forget to check your vehicles if they were not garaged at the time of the storm.
• Check your crawl space and basement. You need to be sure no water is getting in, and, if it is, make sure it is removed quickly via a sump pump or underground drainage system.
• Take pictures of all damage from different angles. Finally, knowing the details of your homeowners coverage, your limits and your deductibles can help you during the insurance claims process. It’s a great idea to examine your policy and know what your homeowners insurance covers now, before the storm.

Restoration

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your Franklin County, MO home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Need Storm or Flood Restoration Service? Call us today 636-583-5200

Mold Damage as a Realtor

7/7/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage as a realtor

Realtors: Dealing with Mold

6/22/2018

As a realtor, you work hard at finding people a place they can call home. You also work hard at presenting less-than-desirable houses in a way that suddenly appears like home to someone else. In doing so, sometimes mold is one of the battles you pursue. At SERVPRO of Franklin County, we want to help you.

Be an Informed Resource

Molds are found in every environment, and mold spores reduce rapidly when moisture is present. An Institute of Medicine study found excessive dampness indoors encourages the growth of molds and other organisms, causing a public health problem. The EPA advised that the potential health concerns from molds are an important reason to prevent moisture problems leading to mold growth. It is especially important to clean up existing indoor mold growth to increase property appeal and retain its value. If a property has experienced a water intrusion, SERVPRO of Franklin County can inspect the damage to see whether moisture has penetrated materials or is allowing mold growth.

Control Moisture - Reduce Mold

Prior to listing a property, the following steps can be taken to reduce the potential for moisture buildup or mold growth. Should a damage event occur, timely response is the key to preventing further damage--act within the first 24 to 48 hours.

• Correct any water leaks or standing water
• Remove standing water under cooling coils or air handling units
• Properly maintain humidifiers, if used
• Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation materials
• Steam cleaning and other methods involving moisture should not be used on any kind of duct work
• Install a ventilation system

If you suspect a listing has mold damage, we can help you. Give us a call to hear more about our mold remediation services. 636-583-5200

Mold Damage in Washington, MO

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Washington MO, Mold Damage Mitigation

Professional Mold Damage Remediation in Washington, MO

All it takes is excess humidity or a small water leak for mold damage in Washington, MO to form in your home or business. Mold spores can produce harmless allergens, irritants, and other minor health effects. The first step in addressing any growth is to identify and manage the source. If moisture problems are not addressed, then any fungi cleanup or removal will only be a short-term solution. At some point, this type of growth will return.

Here are some interesting mold facts and myths

• How many types of mold are there?
  
  There are more than 100,000 types and species of mold. The common types of home and office mold species are Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Alternaria.
  
  • Can mold can only grow around pipes, leaks or because of floods?
  
  Mold does not grow on surfaces that are directly affected by water. Mold spores often occur within the HVAC systems of buildings and homes. They can grow on any surface that has its ideal environment, moisture, and humidity.
  
  • Is black mold worse than other molds?
  
  Mold growth comes in a range of colors. Many molds classified black are actually a very dark green. Black mold is not necessarily more dangerous than other species of mold.
  
  • Can this fungus cause skin rashes?
  
  The CDC reports that exposure to molds doesn’t contribute to rashes.
  
  • Can I clean mold to eliminate it?
  
  Mold can become latent and reactivate. Tiny mold spores replicate every 24 hours, thus often growing back. For porous materials, like ceiling tiles, carpeting, wood, paper, and drywall, surface cleaning is often not enough.

If you see signs of mold damage in your Washington, MO home or business don't put out the for sale sign.

Instead, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County.  As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Franklin County provides 24-hour residential and commercial services.

As a locally owned and operated business, we’re dedicated to being faster to any size disaster, with the training, equipment, and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs.

If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call today! 636-583-5200

Leave the Hassle of Board-Ups to the Professionals

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

Board-Up Franklin County, MO

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Franklin County provides 24-hour residential and commercial services. As a locally owned and operated business, we’re dedicated to being faster to any size disaster, with the training, equipment, and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs.

SERVPRO of Franklin County can board up the damaged property and mitigate and remediate the original damage, providing you with peace of mind while helping make it “Like it never even happened.”

Smoke Odor? Call SERVPRO

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage and Smoke Odor Restoration

Professional smoke odor removal is important not only to eliminate unpleasant smells, but because lingering smoke can pose a health hazard.

Exposure to particles caused by fires can be harmful to one’s health and should be dealt with as soon as possible.

There are a few steps homeowners can take while waiting for professional help.
• When it is safe to re-enter the house, circulate the air as much as possible. Open all windows and doors and use fans to ventilate the area.
• Mop floors and make sure everything dries thoroughly to prevent mold growth.
• Items made of brass and copper should be cleaned within 24 hours to prevent them from etching.
• Vacuum carpets to remove dirt and dust particles that trap unwanted smells.

To completely rid the house, one smoke odor removal process that is utilized is called thermal fogging, which is a procedure used by professionals.

Thermal fog is a process in which a fluid is vaporized and then condenses when it meets a cooler atmosphere temperature. The particles that are created are extremely tiny and mimic particles created by fire, heat and pressure. This technique is one treatment that is proven to eliminate odors.

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Franklin County is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors.

These odors can come from a number of sources both inside and outside a structure.
SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other short cuts don't work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.

We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor and determining the conditions in which it contacts any surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call, and leave the restoration to us. 636-583-5200

Water in your basement?

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

Basement Water Damage

Water in the basement can be caused by a lot of factors. The room may sit under the water table, which will slowly push water into the home. A disaster like a flood can quickly fill the room with fluid, as well as a burst pipe or other plumbing mishap. No matter what causes the water to build up in the home, it will take a certified team to remove it and restore the basement effectively.

There are a couple steps, though, that a homeowner can take to minimize damage and make the home safe to navigate through. If a pipe burst or is leaking, then cutting off the supply line into the home can halt the problem. Also, switching off the home’s power may be necessary, as an electrical discharge can make walking through water exceedingly dangerous and cause a fire.

Safety is the primary concern when contending with excess moisture, and a certified crew will be able to get the home restored in while avoiding any dangerous situations.

SERVPRO of Franklin County is water damage restoration specialists and are ready to restore your home or business back to pre-water damage condition. We quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment. SERVPRO of Franklin County uses moisture monitoring equipment to effectively measure and document the drying process to ensure your property is dry.

Please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Need Water Damage or Flood Cleanup Services?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Within Minutes of a Water Leak

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage Franklin County, MO

Within minutes of a water leak in your home, water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path. The water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings, your furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets. Your photographs, books, and other paper goods will start to swell and warp. Within 24 hours, your drywall will begin to swell and break down, you may even notice a musty odor. Therefore, when you have water damage, you want to call someone that arrives quickly to get started.

Not only does SERVPRO offer 24/7 response time 7 days a week, our goal is to be on site within 4 hours of loss notification. Usually, our response time is even less. For example, at a recent loss in Union, MO, we were on site within 20 minutes. This loss was in the basement of the home with most of the rooms 100% saturated. Drywall had to be removed as it was falling and to find the source. Non-salvageable materials were removed, and a power distribution box was required.  There were also some contents that needed to be moved for the drying process. We used our moisture monitoring equipment to effectively measure and document the drying process to ensure the home was properly dried. This home was dry within 4 days with our state-of-the-art equipment.

If you have water damage in your home, please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

You should call the water damage restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Franklin County for your water loss. We are always “here to help”!

Be READY with SERVPRO

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Be READY for summer storms.

Severe weather can happen anytime. 

Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms associated with freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds.

Know your risk:
Tornadoes
Floods
Thunderstorms & Lightning

Develop an emergency plan based on your local weather hazards and practice your plan.

• Make a family emergency plan
• Be informed about emergency alerts

What can you do when your Franklin County, MO home suffers water damage?  Click Here to visit our blog post covering water damage.

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm, know who to call to quickly get help.

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial.  You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job.

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition. SERVPRO of Franklin County can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

SERVPRO of Franklin County is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here too, and are proud to be part of the Union community. We are also part of a national network of 1,650 with special Disaster Recover Teams that can respond with additional resources during catastrophic storms and major events.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (636) 583-5200

Professional Mold Damage Remediation in Washington, MO

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Damage in Union, MO

All it takes is excess humidity or a small water leak for mold damage in Union, MO to form in your home or business. Mold spores can produce harmless allergens, irritants, and other minor health effects. The first step in addressing any growth is to identify and manage the source. If moisture problems are not addressed, then any fungi cleanup or removal will only be a short-term solution. At some point, this type of growth will return.

Here are some interesting mold facts and myths:

• How many types of mold are there? There are more than 100,000 types and species of mold. The common types of home and office mold species are Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Alternaria.

• Can mold can only grow around pipes, leaks or because of floods? Mold does not grow on surfaces that are directly affected by water. Mold spores often occur within the HVAC systems of buildings and homes. They can grow on any surface that has its ideal environment, moisture, and humidity.

• Is black mold worse than other molds? Mold growth comes in a range of colors. Many molds classified black are actually a very dark green. Black mold is not necessarily more dangerous than other species of mold.

• Can this fungus cause skin rashes? The CDC reports that exposure to molds doesn’t contribute to rashes.

• Can I clean mold to eliminate it? Mold can become latent and reactivate. Tiny mold spores replicate every 24 hours, thus often growing back. For porous materials, like ceiling tiles, carpeting, wood, paper, and drywall, surface cleaning is often not enough.

If you see signs of mold damage in your Washington, MO home or business don't put out the for sale sign. Instead, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County.  As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Franklin County provides 24-hour residential and commercial services. As a locally owned and operated business, we’re dedicated to being faster to any size disaster, with the training, equipment, and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs.

If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call today! 636-583-5200

Hoarding: A Serious Situation

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

Helping your hoarder in Franklin County, MO

According to The Mayo Clinic, “Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of the items. Excessive accumulation of items, regardless of actual value, occurs.”

Many people with hoarding disorder do not find their habits to be a problem. Hoarded items are often things others would throw away or look at as junk or garbage such as old newspapers, junk mail, or packaging.

Hoarding can lead to homes filled with extreme clutter to full capacity from years of accumulation, making living conditions unsanitary and crowded. Bugs, fleas, rats, and other vermin may be present, at which point an exterminator would need to be called. At times, hoarding may spread to outside the home as well, to storage facilities, or even the garage or yard.

SERVPRO® of Franklin County has encountered hoarding situations in several different ways.

 Often, we are called for a fire or water loss and find the hoarding situation when they arrive on-site. Our technicians’ will communicate with the insurance company regarding their content’s coverage, and after approval, contents can be packed out and possibly cleaned, dried, and stored by SERVPRO of Franklin County or relocated to a storage facility so work on the fire or water loss can begin.

Another way we encounter hoarding jobs is through calls from landlords, case workers, real estate agents, or family members, often after the death of a loved one. In these situations, the crew will see if they should look for any items of importance while they clean the job. Sometimes family members will come and try to help the hoarder sort through their contents as well.

Each case is very different, and hoarding jobs are often sensitive situations, but SERVPRO® of Franklin County is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” If you encounter a hoarding situation, call SERVPRO® of Franklin County today.

Call the Cleanup Team

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Faster To Any Size Disaster

There is no disaster that hits home quite like a disaster to your property, home, or business.

When you have suffered a fire, water, or mold damage, you don’t have time to waste searching for a company to fix your property. When disaster strikes, depend on SERVPRO® and our network of over 1,700 Franchises in North America.

Whether the job is big or small, SERVPRO® of Franklin County will be there to help make it “Like it never even happened” so you can get back to your home or business and on with your life.

It’s good to know SERVPRO® is there if you ever need them. If you’re in need of cleanup and restoration services, call SERVPRO of Franklin County today!

Handle Your Franklin County, MO Commercial Water Damage with SERVPRO

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage

Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration
Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.

Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply stores. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible.

Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particle board, carpets or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at the minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present.

Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning and possibly restructuring. Water damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particle board and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

Services You Can Count On in Franklin County, MO

You can depend on SERVPRO to provide reasonable prices for commercial water damage and other services in the Franklin County, MO area. Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage, and storm damage. We also assist with mold remediation, and we're qualified to provide cleaning and building services. Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration. Whether you require cleanup after Franklin County, MO commercial water damage or simply need a carpet cleaning, call us at 636-583-5200.

Why Commercial Carpet Cleaning Is Essential For Floors

5/15/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

Thorough commercial carpet cleaning is the single best way to preserve and extend the life of carpeting, but proper treatment requires careful planning and extensive training. It’s the kind of training that a professional would receive through an organization like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), and it is essential for a professional. SERVPRO of Franklin County is IICRC certified. 

But how much goes into proper commercial carpet cleaning? It starts with keeping soil and debris from entering the building to begin with. By placing entry mats in entrance and high traffic areas and maintaining the walking surfaces outside of the building, there will be less soil to deal with inside the building. Inside, frequent vacuuming is the first line of defense, and may be needed daily in areas that receive a lot of traffic. Vacuuming ensures deposited soil does not penetrate the deeply into the fibers and cause damage.

Spot and stain control is essential, even if the flooring is colored in a way to make stain detection difficult. Stains will degrade the integrity of the flooring and alter its texture, so professionals will have to respond quickly to any problem areas. Formulated detergents and targeted agitation will normally do the trick. Finally, deep treatment, usually through hot water extraction or encapsulation methods, will need to be done several times a year to remove soils that have become embedded in the carpeting’s fibers.

We know as a business owner, you don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your business. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Franklin County for prompt service. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have Questions? Call Today – (636) 583-5200

Source: http://www.IICRC.org/

Washington, MO - Water Damage

5/11/2019 (Permalink)

Nobody wants to come home and find their house soaked with water. But unfortunately for Derrick Sullivan, that’s exactly the situation he walked into.

Sullivan’s home in Washington, MO was one of many that experienced a water loss this year due to burst pipes. Sullivan came home around 6 p.m. one night, and found his living room, dining room and kitchen soaked.

“I was in a panic,” Sullivan said. “We had a lake in our house. I had my son with me that night. I put him upstairs, I shut off the water and tried to get everything together.”

Sullivan quickly called his insurance company, and SERVPRO of Franklin County was dispatched to the scene. Sullivan was one of many jobs SERVPRO of Franklin County received that day, but it was still able to respond quickly.

SERVPRO of Franklin County extracted the water and dried the structure, as multiple levels were affected. SERVPRO of Franklin County also removed the baseboards and the flooring underlayment. The house took about five days to get completely dried.

“I would have never thought that it would be done that quick,” Sullivan said.

After getting the house dried, SERVPRO of Franklin County began reconstruction. They also handled all the reconstruction except for flooring, including painting and installing new cabinets.

Sullivan was pleased with how quickly SERVPRO of Franklin County worked.

“I was very excited about the process,” he said. “It was very fast, that's the key. It was great working with you guys. I was a complete stranger and I had no problems trusting you guys.”

Sullivan said he would tell others to use SERVPRO if they had a water loss.

“I would definitely recommend you guys,” he said. “You guys were there on time, you worked fast. I couldn't have been happier.”

SERVPRO of Franklin County is located in Union, MO and serves the entire Franklin County, Missouri area. As leaders in the water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience.

Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

May Preparedness

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Be prepared this May.

Hopefully the April showers brought you May flowers!

May is a very busy month as school is coming to an end and summer is just around the corner. The same is true for preparedness planning in May.

The following preparedness events take place this month and offer a great chance to educate yourself:

• Wildfire Community Preparedness Day (May 5, 2018)
• National Hurricane Preparedness Week (May 6-12, 2018)
• National Dam Safety Awareness Day (May 31, 2018)
• National Building Safety Month

May also brings two weeks to show appreciation for first responders:

• National Police Week  (May 13-19, 2018
• National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week  (May 20-26, 2018)

Be sure to visit ready.gov for more information and resources.

We at SERVPRO of Franklin County want you to be as prepared as possible since you never know when disaster may strike.

In the event of a fire or water emergency in your home, business, or property, make SERVPRO® your first call to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Professional Fire Damage Restoration - Franklin County, Missouri

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration Damage

When the firefighters leave, it may seem like the danger has passed and the home is safe from further destruction, but without professionals to help clean the smoke damage, the building will never return to normal. While the principles behind fire restoration are fairly simple, it requires a lot of experience and manpower to perform adequately.

While fire is always the immediate danger, once it is gone, what it leaves behind will continue to affect the house. Ash and smoke, if left unhindered, will cause extensive corrosion, etching and discoloration, not to mention lingering powerful odors. 

SERVPRO of Franklin County can clean smoke damage and restore items affected by a fire, but it is best that we begin work at the site as soon as possible to halt the ongoing issues that ash residue can cause.

The first thing that ash does to the home is discolor most surfaces. Anything that is made of plastic or was close to the fire will start discoloring within minutes, and within several hours, fiberglass and finishes on appliances will begin to yellow. Metals may also tarnish. After a few days’ pass, the ash will cause walls to discolor permanently, along with clothing and upholstery. Wood and vinyl will need to be refinished or replaced, and metal will start corroding.

If a professional isn’t hired to clean smoke and fire damage, the costs for restoration will skyrocket after a few weeks. Metals may need to be replaced, carpet will permanently discolor and glass may be severely etched, which will necessitate replacement. It will also become apparent that the odors caused by the disaster may still be present and intense enough to be distracting. Because ash is acidic, the longer it takes to hire experts, the more destruction it will cause.

This entire process is very detailed, and hiring a professional that can be trusted to do the job right is imperative.

SERVPRO of Franklin County 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. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

SERVPRO of Franklin County has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. Once the fire department leaves, your Union home may suffer from water damage caused by firefighting efforts. We have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Repairing Mold Damage in Your Home

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Damage Franklin County, MO

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) shares below five steps a mold-removal specialist takes when conducting mold remediation.

Five steps each mold-removal specialist takes when conducting mold remediation include:

1. Determine the degree of contamination

The first step for a mold remediation specialist may be to bring in an Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) to determine the extent of the mold damage and test for contamination within the facility.

Because mold spores and other microscopic contaminants can travel easily throughout a building, the IEP may collect and analyze samples from affected, as well as unaffected, areas of the building. Once the IEP has finished the inspection they will develop a remediation plan for the mold-removal specialist with steps to return the home to its preloss condition (Condition 1).

2. Set up and verify the containment

To make sure mold contamination does not spread to other areas of a facility, the mold-remediation specialist will set up containment by creating isolation barriers.

Once the barriers are set up, the specialist will need to verify the containment with a lower partial pressure differential (negative pressure) to ensure there is no air leakage between containment zones.

Exit chambers will then be used to serve as a transition between the containment and the unaffected area of the building. Once the containment is verified and the correct amount of pressure is achieved, the removal process can begin.

3. Remove unsalvageable materials

Porous materials and items that cannot be restored or cleaned effectively must be carefully discarded. Unsalvageable items include, but are not limited to, drywall, insulation and other items with visible mold growth.

It is important for the specialist to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), which may include a full-face respirator equipped with a P100/OV cartridge, disposable coveralls and nitrile gloves.

4. Clean surfaces with a high attention to detail

A mold-remediation specialist will likely begin the cleaning process by thoroughly vacuuming the contaminated areas using a HEPA vacuum with a high efficiency filter to catch mold spores. He or she will then begin a detailed cleaning process involving mold removal tools such as a HEPA-filtered sander followed by the damp wiping of surfaces with an effective cleaning solution.

5. Verify remediation

Once cleaning is complete, the IEP will return to verify the remediation was successful. The area must be returned to the dry standard and should be visually dust free with no malodors.

In addition, an IEP may perform surface or air sampling as part of the verification that the area is back to normal fungal ecology (Condition 1).

“Mold remediation requires mold removal specialists to perform techniques that promote source removal rather than relying on chemicals, paints and coatings as a replacement,” said Rachel Adams, President of Indoor Environmental Management Inc. “Understanding and managing air flow is also critical to the success of a mold remediation project. Working with qualified IEP can also help to reduce the liability for the technician as well as provide a final determination if the remediation was successful.”

Source: http://www.IICRC.org

Faster to any size disaster

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Franklin County, MO Biohazard, Crime scene cleanup, and vandalism.

Your disaster may not always be fire and water related, but we are are still Here to Help® at SERVPRO of Franklin County when it comes to other situations.

We also provide services for biohazard, crime scene cleanup, and vandalism. These are services you may never think of until a related disaster strikes you or your business. Equipped with the knowledge, experience, and training, SERVPRO of Franklin County will start helping the moment you call.

Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. Our first focus is always safety. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.

When disaster strikes, make sure you have experienced professionals on the line. No matter how big or small, SERVPRO of Franklin County will be ready to help make your Franklin County, MO property damage “Like it never even happened.”

Biohazard, Crime Scene, and Vandalism Cleanup

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Biohazard, Crime Scene, and Vandalism Cleanup 24/7 SERVPRO of Franklin County, MO

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies, SERVPRO of Franklin County also offers fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.

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

SERVPRO of Franklin County Professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, we help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.

SERVPRO® of Franklin County can help with the following issues:

• Bloodborne Pathogens:
  • We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. We also thoroughly clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.
• Methamphetamine Labs
  • Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs, such as methamphetamine, are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. We follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.
• Crime Scene Residues
  • From fingerprint powder and evidence gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.
• Arson & Vandalism
  • We also provide general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.
• Sewage Backups
  • Water from sewer system backups should be considered very dangerous. The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness. Special training and equipment is necessary to safely clean this type of contamination.
• Black Water Intrusions
  • This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
  • In as little as 48 hours, a minor mold issue can quickly spread through a home or business. Once you contact us, we’re dedicated to starting the remediation process quickly. This fast response lessens the mold damage, limits additional damage, and reduces the remediation cost.

Contact SERVPRO of Franklin County today for 24-hour emergency service. (636) 583-5200

April showers bring May flowers…….and allergies!

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

Spring Cleaning your Union, MO home or business

Now for the next step, you’re going to need to call in the professionals with the green trucks.  Air duct cleaning is going to substantially help your indoor air quality, removing dust, debris and mold. These are all things that trigger your allergies.  When we clean duct work we clean both sides of the system, which are the supplies and the cold air returns. In addition, we clean the furnace including the A coil and the squirrel cage.  The process is simple but takes some time.  We set up the vacuum unit outside and connect just above the furnace.  We run plastic “whips” with compressed air down each of the supply and cold air returns, pushing the debris to the vacuum hose and then out to the vacuum bag. At the end of the whips we use attachments based on what is required. These attachments can be brushes or other agitation tools that get all of the built up dust and debris loose so it can be vacuumed out.  Lastly, we HEPPA Vacuum the furnace, A coil and squirrel cage, removing the build up dust.  The result is a much cleaner system and much cleaner inside air.  You will automatically notice the difference in air quality and dust build up after we are complete.  Sometimes there’s an added bonus where we find your lost ring or that beloved child’s toy that mysteriously went missing. 

The next thing you will want to have done is cleaning of your carpets and upholstery. So much dirt, debris, pollen and mold can lie lurking in these textiles.   A good HEPA Vacuuming and a deep cleaning is the best way to combat those allergies.  Our most common method of carpet and upholstery cleaning is the Hot Water Extraction method.  First we HEPA Vacuum, than we address any spots, we than treat all of the surfaces with an emulsifier and lastly extract with hot water and a neutralizer. You won’t believe your eyes how good everything looks and, more importantly, your nose will thank you.  Good bye built up allergens!

If you haven’t cleaned your carpets or upholstery in a while, don’t worry.  The hot water extraction method works really well, or we have other deeper cleaning methods.  One way or another we can handle what you send our way. 

Still have some household odors?  Don’t worry, we have several different services that will work for you depending on the source of the odor.  For smoke odors, the Hydroxyl generator or Ozone works well. 

The Hydroxyl generator is a little more people friendly. It’s breathable, so people and pets can co-mingle while the Hydroxyl generator is in operation. The Hydroxyl generator works best for odors such as smoke, bio hazards, skunk, pet and VOCs.  In short, the Hydroxyl generator uses three bands of UV light to cleanse the air.  We have found them very effective. 

Ozone is not breathable and therefore much more limited.  It is very effective for the same types of odors, but just remember people or pets cannot be present.  In general the Ozone machine converts O2 to O3. O3 is well known for its disinfecting and deodorizing properties.

Lastly, we can thermal fog a room or area.  Both of these methods apply odor counteractive used to neutralize odors in the air. They do a great job for relatively minor to moderate odors and there are a number of counteractives we can use depending on the odor source. 

Performing any or all of these tips will go a long way in combating your seasonal allergies. And best of all, your friends in the green trucks have pricing specials available for you.  All you have to do is ask. 

Until later. Stay Green.

Jerry

Do you need your ducts cleaned?

4/23/2019 (Permalink)

Duct Cleaning your Franklin County, MO home

Duct Cleaning Can Help!

The ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, but you can help change that!

Inspecting the ductwork in your facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout  your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO of Franklin County's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary.  SERVPRO of Franklin County will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke, or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process.

In these cases, SERVPRO of Franklin County can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

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

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

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

Fire Damage at Local Bowling Alley

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage at Bowling Alley in Owensville, MO

When Thunder Alley Lanes in Owensville, MO had a recent fire in their onsite kitchen, Twisters Bar & Grill, they gave SERVPRO a call. We met with the owner within a few hours after the fire. We went over the process with the owner, letting him know how long the restoration would take and what exactly we would need to do to get the bowling alley back to preloss condition.

With an onsite meeting with the adjuster the next day, we brought available staff to get started. We contacted the large loss division, and they helped grow the staff to 12 crew members, two supervisors, and one production manager.

Restoration involved a top down cleaning of the entire 11,000sf building. This involved removing and replacing all the drop ceiling and painting of the entire bowling alley.

We were able to complete the work within 10 days allowing the bowling alley to reopen on a Friday before the busy weekend.

We know that fire damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If your business experiences a fire loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts and we’ll respond immediately to get you back to business.

Hoarding in Franklin County, MO

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Hoarding in Franklin County, MO

According to The Mayo Clinic, “Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of the items. Excessive accumulation of items, regardless of actual value, occurs.” Many people with hoarding disorder do not find their habits to be a problem.

Hoarded items are often things others would throw away or look at as junk or garbage such as old newspapers, junk mail or packaging. Hoarding can lead to homes filled with extreme clutter to full capacity from years of accumulation, making living conditions unsanitary and crowded.

Bugs, fleas, rats and other vermin may be present, at which point an exterminator would need to be called. At times, hoarding may spread to outside the home as well, to storage facilities, or even the garage or yard.

SERVPRO® of Franklin County encounter hoarding situations several different ways. Often,
we are called for a fire or water loss and find the hoarding situation when we arrive on-site. We will communicate with the insurance company regarding their contents coverage, and after approval, contents can be packed out and possibly cleaned, dried, and stored, or relocated to a storage facility so work on the fire or water loss can begin.

Another way SERVPRO® can encounter hoarding jobs is through calls from landlords, case workers, real estate agents, or family members, often after the death of a loved one. In these situations, the crew will see if they should look for any items of importance while they clean the job. Sometimes, family members will come and try to help the hoarder sort through their contents as well.

Each case is very different, and hoarding jobs are often sensitive situations, but SERVPRO® of Franklin County is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you encounter a hoarding situation, call SERVPRO® of Franklin County today. (636) 583-5200

Dry Ice Blasting Your Fire Damaged Home

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Dry Ice Blasting in Franklin County, MO

What Is Dry Ice Blasting?

Dry ice blasting is a revolutionary blasting method that uses dry ice pellets (CO2 in solid form) as the blasting material. The process is very environmentally friendly and provides a fast and effective alternative to traditional methods of cleaning industrial production equipment.

Dry Ice Blasting has become the preferred method to remove smoke soot, vaporized synthetic resins and char. Advanced Indoor Air Quality Care uses C02 dry ice blasting can reduce or eliminate the musty burnt smell that results from fire, smoke and water damage.

Dry Ice Blasting Is A Three-Step Process

Kinetic: When dry ice pellets are accelerated in a jet of compressed air and strike a surface at the speed of sound, they crack and loosen the coating of the surface being treated.

Thermal: The low temperature of dry ice pellets (-79oC/-110oF) makes the coating brittle, cracks it and loosens it. This allows dry ice to permeate the coating.

Sublimation: Dry ice penetrates the coating and immediately sublimes (passes directly from solid to vapor state). This results in a 700-fold increase in volume, an explosive effect that lifts the coating off the surface.

The Benefits Of Dry Ice Blasting

A Dry Cleaning Process: Dry ice blasting is a completely dry process because dry ice pellets consist of CO2 and vaporize immediately on contact with the surface to be cleaned.

No Waste Disposal: The system produces no waste products. Only the coating that has been removed remains to be disposed of, and this can usually be swept or vacuumed from the floor.

Environmentally Friendly: Dry ice blasting is completely non-toxic and no hazardous chemicals are used. Costs connected with the disposal of blasting materials and solvents are saved.

No Abrasion: Dry ice blasting is non-abrasive and therefore surfaces are treated very gently. Wear and tear resulting from the use of steel brushes, scrapers and other blasting materials is avoided.

Improved Production Quality: Dry ice blasting often allows for your production equipment to be cleaned while in operation without a need for dismantling or costly downtime.

Call SERVPRO of Franklin County for Dry Ice Blasting.

SERVPRO of Franklin County is locally owned and operated and we are proud to be part of this community. Fire damage can be devastating. You need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat your property with great care.

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. When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Spring is in the air!

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

Spring Cleaning your Franklin County, MO home

With the warmer weather comes the tradition of spring cleaning, a time to organize and clean the environments—home, business, office—we encounter on a daily basis.

What are some of the services SERVPRO® can assist you with during spring cleaning—or any season?

Perhaps you are selling a home and want to vanquish years of cigarette smoke odor that won’t go away, or want to see if your ducts or HVAC
system needs to be cleaned.

We also offer the following cleaning services: n

• Carpet cleaning
• Upholstery and drapery cleaning
• Ceiling and wall cleaning
• Hard floor cleaning

Whatever your spring cleaning needs, SERVPRO® has you covered. Call SERVPRO® of Franklin County today to discuss or schedule your necessary spring cleaning services.

Call SERVPRO of Franklin County today - 636-583-5200

Does Your Union, MO Home Have Water Damage?

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

Union, MO Water Damage

When your Union, MO home or business has water damage, you need to call a water damage restoration service. This is the kind of professional that no one wants to call, but when they are needed, it is important not to delay. You know that moisture is often the enemy. It is capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem. No matter how moisture gets into the building, the response should be the same. Bring in a certified firm, such as SERVPRO of Franklin County, as soon as possible to clean the home, dry it, and ensure there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, don’t try to handle it on your own!

Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill. A certified water damage restoration service not only has the tools to eliminate the moisture, they have the personal protective equipment (PPE) to remain free from harm.

Restoration technicians have a lot of technology at their disposal. These include powerful vacuums and pumping systems, high volume air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and a number of detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats.

While the technicians work on the building, disposing of compromised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live, and a business safe to work in; any other cleaning method is a dangerous gamble.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

Call SERVPRO of Franklin County. We are water damage restoration specialists and are ready to restore your Union, MO home back to pre-water damage condition. We quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment. 

Please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Call SERVPRO of Franklin County 24/7 - (636) 583-5200

Be Flood SMART

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding Damage Union MO

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether your home or business is near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert-there is always potential for flood damage.

Floodsmart.gov reports, in the last five years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster.

The ARC offers the following flood safety tips.

• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet.
• If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.

 If a flood does strike your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. The SERVPRO® System is prepared to handle any size disaster.

When fire and water take control of your life, SERVPRO of Franklin County will help you take it back.

Restoring a Fire Damaged Restaurant

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Pasta House Union, MO

The worst nightmare for any restaurant is having to deal with a disaster. Statistics show that 50% of businesses that sustain a catastrophe never re-open. Unfortunately, Pasta House in Union, MO had to deal with that nightmare scenario after suffering a kitchen fire on the evening of January 28^th. SERVPRO of Franklin County was there to help the next morning.

After seeing a post about the fire on Facebook, our owner, Jerry Alvey, met with the owner of Pasta House and the Union, MO fire chief. Jerry assessed the situation and determined that the kitchen and dining room would need a thorough cleaning, while structural repairs were needed in the kitchen. After speaking with Pasta House’s adjustor, SERVPRO got approval to move forward with the job.

The first step was making calls. Lots of them.

Subcontractors were called to handle electric, mechanical repairs for cooking equipment, repairs to the security and alarm system, and repairs to the acoustic ceiling. An architect, the city of Union, and the Union fire inspector were also called.

SERVPRO also got a dumpster set up immediately to clear the debris and damaged contents in the building.

To help handle such a large loss, SERVPRO called in its Extreme Response Team, Team Wolfe. One of the benefits of SERVPRO’s franchise system is that no loss is ever too big, and there’s always help from groups like the Extreme Team if necessary.

In the meantime, SERVPRO’s employees began removing the damaged ceiling tile in the kitchen and addressed the odor by setting five air scrubbers and four hydroxyl generators.

Jerry also completed the diagram for the building, as the adjustor wanted to see it when they met the next day. He also spent the rest of the day measuring, scoping and estimating.

On day two, the adjustor for the job and project manager Hank from the Extreme Team came out and a plan of action was put into place. Jerry and Team Wolf spent the day developing the scope of repairs and estimating, getting tentative repair costs.

Since the ceilings were 15 feet tall, the group strategized about how best to clean them. After debating between man lifts, scaffolding and ladders, it was determined that ladders would be the best option because they would be the easiest to work around. Ladders create safety issues, and there always needs to be three points of contact (two feet and a hand) with someone on the ground steadying the ladder. The crew members on the ladder were to detail clean from top down, moving left to right. First they HEPA vacuumed the entire interior of the building, then they wet cleaned.

It was also determined with the Extreme Team that there should be 12 crews with two supervisors and a project manager overseeing the cleanup. The crews would be on 10-hour shifts for six days. Every morning, the crew members would line up at 7 a.m. in front of their supervisors and they were checked to make sure they were wearing their personal protective equipment, which included hard hats, safety glasses, respirators, gloves, and steel-toed footwear. They would also hold a daily safety meeting.

They also strategized about what order the cleanup should take place and what the priorities were, with the goal being to open the restaurant back up as soon as possible. For most of the cleanup, the source of the fire damage in the kitchen had to be worked around because the fire inspector was still trying to determine the cause of origin.

After structural cleaning was completed, air duct cleaning began. Pasta House had an extremely large duct system with five units that required detailed cleaning due to the amount of smoke. When the duct cleaning started, SERVPRO also began sealing and painting both the kitchen and the dining room. Both the duct cleaning and the sealing and painting took three days.

While SERVPRO was painting, the alarm company came and replaced what was necessary to re-open, which was the smoke detectors and CO detectors.

Around this time, the architect submitted his sketch of the ceiling and lighting layout which was reviewed by the city. After the sketch was in, the acoustic ceiling company was able to start. They worked in conjunction with the electric company to replace the lighting.

On Feb. 13, SERVPRO was approved to cut out the damaged wall from the source of the fire, with the goal being to re-open the restaurant the next day. The cause and origin folks completed their investigation and turned this area over to us. Once the wall was cut open, the city inspector and fire inspector came and determined there were four circuits in the wall that were burnt and needed repair. The electrician made the necessary repairs late into the night, and the inspector accommodated SERVPRO and Pasta House by coming back at 6:30 a.m. the next morning to approve the repairs and allow the close-up of the wall with fire-rated drywall. The inspector came back again at 12:30 p.m. to approve the re-opening of the building, which was slated for 3 p.m. SERVPRO continued to put the finishing touches on the cleanup until Pasta House’s doors re-opened that afternoon for Valentine’s Day.

SERVPRO was incredibly proud to get Pasta House re-opened in just 16 days. We knew how important it was for Pasta House to get back in business to save them from costly losses from being closed for an extended period, and we worked diligently to make their disaster "Like it never even happened."

Spring Storms are coming... Are you READY?

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

READY for any size disaster.

Severe weather can happen anytime, in any part of the country. Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms associated with freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds.

Know what the risks are for Franklin County, MO:
Tornadoes
Floods
Thunderstorms & Lightning

When you are aware of the risks, be sure to:

• Make a family emergency plan
• Be informed about emergency alerts

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm, know who to call to quickly get help.

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial.  You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job.

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition. SERVPRO of Franklin County can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

SERVPRO of Franklin County is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here too, and are proud to be part of the Union community. We are also part of a national network of 1,650 with special Disaster Recover Teams that can respond with additional resources during catastrophic storms and major events.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (636) 583-5200

Flooding Can Happen Anywhere

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA), “Approximately seventy-five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding.”

NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States as:

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future.

In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the U.S., and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).

When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO® of Franklin County can help. We can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP) or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in business as soon as possible.

SERVPRO of Franklin County is ready to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Understanding Water Types

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

Types of Water Damage - Union, MO

When your home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper cleanup.

There are three types of water:

Clean water is water from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean.

Gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water. Clean water becomes gray water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminants to begin growing, making the water hazardous.

Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals and more. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be handled by trained professionals.

Consider taking the following precautions to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for help to arrive.

Damage from Clean Water

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow more even drying.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture to a safe place.
• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.
• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Damage from Contaminated Water

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items.
• Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.
• Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.
• Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

When you have a water damage, don’t leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO of Franklin County.

Does your Franklin County, MO home or business have dirty ducts?

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Duct Cleaning for your Franklin County, MO home

Did you know your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality?

Inspecting the ductwork in your Franklin County, MO facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO of Franklin County's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO® of Franklin County will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork. In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke, or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, we can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

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

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

The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.

Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.

Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.

As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.

Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact your local SERVPRO® of Franklin County today. 

Destroy Odors with DEODORIZATION

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Franklin County, MO Fire Damage

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized.

Fire, smoke and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems. As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors.

With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO® of Franklin County provide specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage.

SERVPRO® of Franklin County does not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. Once the source is found, SERVPRO’s own proprietary line of cleaning products is used to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more.

Ask your us to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

If you suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County. Whether it’s fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we’ll help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Water Damage in your Union, MO Home?

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Union, MO Water Damage

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, don’t try to handle it on your own. Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill. A certified water damage restoration service not only has the tools to eliminate the moisture, they have the protective equipment to remain free from harm.

Restoration technicians have a lot of technology at their disposal. These include powerful vacuums and pumping systems, high volume air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and a number of detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats. While the technicians work on the building, disposing of compromised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live, and a business safe to work in; any other cleaning method is a dangerous gamble.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

We are water damage restoration specialists and are ready to restore your Union home back to pre-water damage condition. We quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment. SERVPRO of Franklin County uses moisture monitoring equipment to effectively measure and document the drying process to ensure your property is dry.

Please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

The First 48

2/5/2019 (Permalink)

Fast Response for Fire Damage

The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing damaged property and personal belongings.

Rapid response and timely mitigation can help prevent fire damage from creating longterm problems. SERVPRO of Franklin County understands returning to normal is your primary concern.

SERVPRO® Response Teams are trained in caring for both you and your property. By responding quickly with a full line of fire cleanup and restoration services, your SERVPRO Professionals can help you get your home or business back up and running quickly and help protect your property and belongings.

If your home or business suffers a fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Damage Emergency Tips

2/5/2019 (Permalink)

Fire and water damage? Call SERVPRO.

These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper action until SERVPRO of Franklin County arrives. Follow these DOs and DON’Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Remove soot particles from plants with a damp cloth. n Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON’T: 

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Professional.
• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet, rugs or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Professional.
• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don’t consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

When fire and water damage take control of your life, SERVPRO® will help you take it back.

Smoke Alarms: LIFE SAVERS

2/5/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

In homes, smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and on every level, including the basement.

In office and commercial environments, check your state requirements or contact your local Fire Marshall to help ensure all codes are met.

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years.

Other alarms need batteries replaced every year and the unit replaced every ten years.

If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA)

In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills.

For more information on Emergency Preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County today. 636-583-5200

Mold Basics

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Damage Franklin County, MO

Moisture Control: The key to mold control.

If you find a mold problem in your home, you should fix the water problem and clean up the mold promptly.

Typically, mold can grow in 24/48 hours. That is why it is important to dry water-damaged areas as soon as possible.

Why is mold growing in my home?

Molds are part of the natural environment. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.

Moisture and Mold Prevention and Control Tips

• When water leaks or spills occur indoors - ACT QUICKLY. If wet or damp materials or areas are dried 24-48 hours after a leak or spill happens, in most cases mold will not grow.
• Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.
•  Make sure the ground slopes away from the building foundation, so that water does not enter or collect around the foundation.
•  Keep air-conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.
•  Keep indoor humidity low. If possible, keep indoor humidity below 60 percent (ideally between 30 and 50 percent) relative humidity. Relative humidity can be measured with moisture or humidity meter, a small, inexpensive ($10-$50) instrument available at many hardware stores. 
•  If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes ACT QUICKLY to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture/water source. Condensation can be a sign of high humidity.

Bathroom Tip

Places that are often or always damp can be hard to maintain completely free of mold. If there’s some mold in the shower or elsewhere in the bathroom that seems to reappear, increasing ventilation (running a fan or opening a window) and cleaning more frequently will usually prevent mold from recurring, or at least keep the mold to a minimum. 

Any home or commercial property can quickly become infested with mold if a source of water is present.

Mold can spread throughout a property in as little as 48 hours. Since mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should call us to inspect your Union home if you suspect you have a mold problem. If mold is found, we have the training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by reviewing these mold damage tips.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Winter Car Preparedness

1/31/2019 (Permalink)

Winter Preparedness

Car Winter Safety

Winter isn't over yet!

Have you made a winter preparedness kit for your car?

You may have a few things.. but what if you were stranded overnight in your car?

It happened just a few weeks ago....

Thousands of motorists were stranded over night on I-44 and other highways.

Can you imagine being stuck on the road for that long?

It's a good reason to add a few things to your trunk.

So... What should you keep in your car?

While many things are a duplicate of a general emergency kit, here's a list to check before heading out:

• Water
• Food
• Flashlights
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Cell phone with chargers
• Blankets and extra winter gear (gloves and hats)

If you have kids, you may also want to include books, games, puzzles or other activities.

If you know there will be winter weather headed your way, fill up your gas task before heading out.

Have a mechanic check the following on your vehicle prior to an emergency:

• Antifreeze levels
• Battery and ignition system
• Brakes
• Exhaust system
• Fuel and air filters
• Heater and defroster
• Lights and flashing hazard lights
• Oil
• Thermostat
• Windshield wiper equipment and washer fluid level

Frozen Pipes? Yes, we're still talking about it!

We're wrote about freezing pipes in homes and businesses before, but with winter in full swing, we'd like to remind everyone. Keep those faucets dripping on cold winter nights and open cabinet doors for pipes that may be susceptible to freezing temps.

As always, we are "Here to Help" 24/7 with all your emergency restoration needs.

24/7 Service

Fire and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. We provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

We are "Here To Help"

Established in October of 2008, our SERVPRO franchise has been in the Franklin County, MO community for over 10 years.

Is Your Winter Storm Damage Covered by Insurance?

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Winter Storm Damage

You’ll want to review your policy or contact your insurance agency to know for sure what is or isn’t covered. However, most standard homeowner’s insurance policies provide coverage for winter related storm damage that occurs as a result of wind, snow, ice, freezing rain and low temperatures.

However, most standard homeowner’s insurance policies do not provide coverage for flood damage. If your home suffers from snow melt or other winter related flooding, you may not have coverage unless you have a separate flood insurance policy in place.

If you have a summer home and leave your home unattended during the winter, you may have some additional coverage issues. Some policies may have exclusions for damage that occurred from not being winterized properly or being left unoccupied for a certain period of time.

While your insurance may provide some coverage for winter storm damage, the best option is to take steps to prevent damage from occurring.

• Clean your gutters and downspouts so that melting snow can flow freely away from your home
• Inspect and repair roof shingles and flashing to prevent water damage
• Trim tree branches on your property
• Apply weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows and inspect storm doors and windows for broken glass
• Drain water from pipes leading to exterior faucets and remove garden hoses
• Insulate pipes that are susceptible to freezing
• Have your heating system cleaned and inspected. 

Give us a call if you suspect your Franklin County, MO home or business has been affected by winter storm damage. We can guide you through the process and make the stressful experience “Like it never even happened.” 

Give us a call today 636-583-5200 we are always "Here to Help"!

Keep Your Pipes from Bursting

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

If your pipes burst, call SERVPRO of Franklin County

The cold weather is here! When the temperatures go below freezing, your property is at risk for freezing pipes. This can create a major disaster in your home or business.

Be Prepared

• Know where your water shut off is located, in case of a frozen water pipe burst.
• Insulate exposed pipes in your home or business, especially if they are in unheated rooms.
• Open bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors during cold spells to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.
• During extremely cold weather, keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets. Running water is less likely to freeze.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets and open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it completely drains and the inner valve is shut off.
• Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night.
• If you plan on being away from your property for an extended period of time, leave the heat on and set the thermostat to at least 55°F.

Discovered Frozen Pipe

1. First sign of freezing is reduced water flow from a faucet.
2. Keep the faucet open when treating frozen pipes.
3. Apply heat to the frozen sections using a heating pad, hair drier, or another safe heat source. Do not use an open flame device.
4. Check additional pipes and faucets for freezing.

When a Pipe Bursts

1. Shut off the water at the main valve.
2. Call your local restoration professionals, SERVPRO® of Franklin County.

A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

If winter weather causes water damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO® of Franklin County.

We are available 24/7/365 in Franklin County, MO and ready to restore to preloss condition.

From 1969 to 2019...

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

Resolve to be READY in 2019

...SERVPRO® is still "Faster to Any Size Disaster".

Each new year brings the opportunity for new beginnings! Make 2019 a year to remember and resolve to be READY!

SERVPRO of Franklin County wants to help ensure you enjoy a safe and happy new year by helping you be prepared for anything the year may have in store.

While we only hope to see good things come  about in a new year, it is always a good idea to plan ahead for the not-so-good things—fire or water damage—that are always an unexpected  and unwelcome disaster.

Make your resolution one that helps protect you and your business.

Call your SERVPRO® of Franklin County to learn more about how they can help you be “Ready for whatever happens” in the new year!  

Dangers of EXTREME COLD

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

Dangers of extreme cold

While your home can get damaged due to winter weather and extreme cold, your personal health is also at risk.

Fifty-three people died and three were injured due to extreme cold in 2015. It is important to be aware of the effect extremely cold temperatures can have on you.

The two main conditions to be aware of are frostbite and hypothermia.

Frostbite is caused when your skin is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Physical symptoms are white or grayish-yellow skin, skin that feels unusually firm, or waxy numbness.

Hypothermia is when your body temperature falls to an abnormally low temperature, caused from long exposure to cold weather. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness.

If someone’s body temperature is below 95°F, seek medical attention immediately. To avoid these conditions, stay indoors if possible. If not, dress warm in layers and try to keep dry.

Source: ready.gov/winter-weather

2019 Resolution: Plan Ahead

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

Be READY in 2019

With each new year, many people resolve to better themselves or some part of their life.

This year, make a resolution to be READY.

No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can prepare for it. The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) will help ensure you are “Ready for whatever happens”  in 2019. 

In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas.

The ERP also establishes SERVPRO of Franklin County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 50 years experience and a System more than 1,700 Franchises strong.

The ERP is a nocost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future.

By downloading the free SERVPRO® READY App, this information is stored electronically and can be accessed using your mobile device putting help at your  fingertips.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood.

Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Don’t wait until disaster strikes—resolve to be READY. 

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

Call SERVPRO of Franklin County to establish your Emergency READY Profile®, and be “Ready for whatever happens” in 2019.  

Weather WORRIES

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

This image shows the circumstances in which ice dams form on a roofline.

Winter weather can bring about more issues than just slippery roads and a sidewalk to shovel. If you live where temperatures sink below freezing level, you are also at risk for frozen pipes and ice dams, which can create a major disaster at your home or property.

FROZEN PIPES

Frozen pipes are often those exposed to the cold weather, such as those outside your house, or in cold areas such as basements, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets.

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage.

A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

To prevent pipes from freezing, here are a few steps you can take, according to The American Red Cross:

• Be sure to completely drain water from swimming pool and sprinkler lines, as well as outside hoses.
• Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air circulate near the plumbing.
• When the weather is extremely cold, let water drip from faucets that may come from exposed pipes.
• Keep your heat set to the same   temperature both day and night.

ICE DAMS

Ice dams can be a little-known, but major problem during the snowy season.

They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof ’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas, as well as causing gutters and shingles to move or fall.

Icicles can be an initial sign of an ice dam, according to Travelers.com. To spot ice dams inside, “check for water stains or moisture in your attic or along the ceiling of exterior walls of your house.

Water stains or moisture may be an indication that an ice dam has formed and water has penetrated the roof membrane.”

Removing an ice dam as soon as it is found is vital to helping prevent damage to your property and can be done using heated cables, a roof shovel, or calcium chloride ice melter.

If winter weather causes water damage to your property, SERVPRO of Franklin County Professionals are only a call away, 24/7, ready to restore to preloss condition.

Source: redcross.org, Travelers.com

Carbon Monoxide: A Silent Cold-Weather Killer

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

Carbon Monoxide detector

We care about your safety. Here is an explanation of what carbon monoxide is and how you can stay safe this winter.

What is carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a gas you cannot see, taste or smell. According to ready.gov, an average of 430 Americans die each year from unintentional carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Many furnaces, rangers, water heaters, use CO to as a power source.

Why does carbon monoxide poisoning occur?

Often times, it is the result of faulty, improperly used or vented consumer products like furnaces, ranges, water heaters, room heaters and engine-powered equipment, such as portable generators.

What can you do to stay safe?

There are precautions you can take to help protect yourself, your family, and your employees from deadly CO fumes.

• Reduce the chance of CO exposure in your workplace by performing regular maintenance on equipment and appliances that can produce CO.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home, including outside of all bedrooms.
• Consider having all fuel-burning heating equipment and chimneys serviced annually by a professional.
• Use portable generators only in well-ventilated areas away from doors, windows, vents, and any other openings to prevent fumes from entering the home. 

For additional CO safety information, visit usfa.fema.gov or osha.gov.

Why Should You Choose an IICRC Certified Restoration Company?

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

Water Restoration IICRC Union, MO

When your home or business is damaged by water from a broken pipe, flood, sewage backup, or overflowing appliances you want a professional that is certified by the IICRC and will dry your property back to preloss condition.

The IICRC is an acronym for the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, an organization developed in 1972 to set standards for the inspection, cleaning, and restoration service industries.

To obtain certification, future technicians must take a serious of classes in specialized areas of cleaning, inspection and restoration and pass a standardized exam. The IICRC certifications indicates the amount of knowledge in remediation and restoration needed to safely restore a home or business. Although it is not a requirement to function, you can expect a degree of confidence by having an IICRC certified company perform remediation.

If your home is damaged by water and not properly restored, it can cause mold to form which increases the cost of the remediation. Mold can form in as little as 48 hours, so timely restoration is key in properly restoring your home.

You know that by hiring an IICRC Certified company you are hiring a team of professionals that have been trained to the highest standards to restore your home. SERVPRO of Franklin County is IICRC Certified and in operation in Union, MO for over 10 years.

It is our goal to be "Here to Help" when our neighbors here in Franklin County, MO need us. Whether it be the next great flood or simply an overflowed toilet, we will make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Are You Winter Weather Ready?

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

Winter Weather Ready

Are you prepared for the coming cold weather?

Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not ready for it. From heavy rain and freezing temperatures to damaging winds, sleet, or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage.

While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather. To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
• 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.
• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
• Ask SERVPRO of Franklin County about completing an Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no-cost assessment to your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.

When winter weather strikes, call SERVPRO of Franklin County to strike back.

Searching For A Fire And Flood Restoration Service

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Restoration Union, MO

Fire and flood restoration is an arduous process that is best done with the help of professionals, as it is often difficult to understand the aftermath these elements cause. Sadly, the cruelest cut stemming from these disasters usually happens once the shock of the tragedy has subsided, and can claim many other belongings if the lingering effects are not dealt with promptly.

Once the flame has been extinguished, the ash left behind begins to deteriorate things further.  Within hours the acidic nature of ash will discolor plastics and metals, and once several days and weeks have gone by, metals and glass will be corroded or etched beyond repair. This means that appliances, windows and piping will all need to be ripped out and replaced, multiplying the financial costs of the disaster. Wood furniture is also affected at this point, so it is conceivable that nearly everything will need to be replaced if action isn’t taken rather quickly.

It’s hard to imagine, but water damage can be even worse. If fire and flood restoration is not done in a hurry, soaked materials will need to be discarded. Carpeting and the padding under it, insulation, clothing, bedding and important papers will all need to be thrown away if they come in contact with contaminated water. Most people are familiar with the molds that rising waters bring, but fungi, bacteria and parasites are other major hazards that have to be contended with, and once they are allowed to hang around and multiply, they can be nearly impossible to destroy. Because of this, it is best to enlist SERVPRO professionals to handle the clean-up and return the property and personal belongings to their former glory.

Fire damage can be devastating for you and your family. Feelings of confusion and stress are common, and you need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We always treat your family with the greatest empathy and respect, and we’ll treat your property with great care.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

The Science of Drying

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

The science of drying

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying?

The knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Franklin County is trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages.

If your business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of Franklin County will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

What exactly does “speed up Mother Nature” mean? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out. For this reason, SERVPRO of Franklin County has been trained to use top-of-the line equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more.

DRYBOOK™ DOCUMENTATION 

SERVPRO of Franklin County uses the latest technology to help ensure your property is dried quickly and efficiently. DryBook™ is a proprietary tool that:

• Manages industry drying requirements. n Provides real-time documentation on the drying process.
• Validates that services are executed to standard.
• Reports to all stakeholders involved. 
• Allows real-time updates through DryBook™ Mobile integration. This improves results and restores your property at a faster rate, getting you back in your home or business sooner.

SERVPRO® also uses state-of-the-art
monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

The bottom line? SERVPRO of Franklin County has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Light the Night: Safely

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

Stay Safe this Holiday Season

The American Red Cross offers the following safety tips to help greatly reduce the fire risk in your home or business this holiday season.

• Place Christmas trees, candles, and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, and heat vents.
• Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.
• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.

SERVPRO of Franklin County wishes you a safe and happy holiday season!

SERVPRO Honors Everyday Heroes with Sponsorship of SERVPRO First Responder Bowl

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

First Responder Bowl

Union, MO (Grassroots Newswire) <Date> -- SERVPRO is proud to announce the inaugural SERVPRO First Responder Bowl being played at historic Cotton Bowl Stadium. The newly renamed bowl is designed to honor the sacrifice and service of the brave men and women who are the first line of defense in local communities in Franklin County, MO when the unexpected or the unthinkable happens says Jerry Alvey of SERVPRO of Franklin County. Kickoff for the event, televised by ESPN, is December 26 at 1:30 ET.

“It’s a privilege to have the SERVPRO name associated with an event that celebrates the dedication and selflessness of first responders,” said Alvey.  “These men and women are true hometown heroes and first on the scene when disaster strikes, helping to save lives and protect property.”

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl will honor first responders including police officers, firefighters, EMS workers, correctional officers, search and rescue teams, dispatchers, security guards, federal agents, border patrol agents, and military personnel who have specialized training and are the first to arrive and provide help at the scene of an emergency. Event organizers planned to distribute 10,000 complimentary tickets to verified first responders and their families who sign up at https://www.firstresponderbowl.com/first-responders. These complimentary tickets are possible thanks to corporate sponsors like SERVPRO and individual fans who chose to “Sponsor a Responder” with a $15 donation when they purchase their general admission tickets. 

“The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is a celebration of the commitment to service demonstrated by the everyday people who willingly put themselves in harm’s way to protect the lives and property of their neighbors,” said Sue Steen, CEO of SERVPRO Industries, Inc. “SERVPRO is honored to have this opportunity to shine a spotlight on all of these hard working first responders, and their families, and to recognize them for the heroes they are.”

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About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowner.

Holiday safety Tips

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

Happy Holidays from SERVPRO of Franklin County

As the weather outside gets frightful and your cozy homes become warm and delightful, the holiday season’s aglow, let it snow, let it snow, let is snow.

According to climate.gov, on February 12, 2010, there was snow present in all 50 states, including Hawaii! Five years later in 2015, it almost happened again, when every state but Florida experienced snow.

While it is generally unlikely for certain states to encounter snow, it is still important to know how to be prepared if winter weather strikes at your home, business or while traveling. SERVPRO of Franklin County is dedicated to helping you keep the holidays merry and bright, and keeping your property safe.

But what happens if disaster does strike during the most wonderful time of year? Easy—Call SERVPRO of Franklin County, even if it is the night before Christmas. SERVPRO® is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days of the year, ready when you need help the most. We answer the phone – ready to help.

CELEBRATE SAFELY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

Celebrate Safely This Holiday Season

Pretty lights, candles and decorations are just a few of the items bringing charm and cheer to the holiday season— however, if they are not used carefully your holidays may go from festive to frightening.

The American Red Cross offers the following safety tips to help greatly reduce the fire risk in your home or business this holiday season.

• Place Christmas trees, candles and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents and candles.

Make sure light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed. n Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
• Use only sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees.
• Keep anything that can catch fire—pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging and towels or curtains—away from your stove top.
• Designate one person to walk around your property to ensure all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after guests leave.

SERVPRO of Franklin County wishes you a safe and happy holiday season!

Are You Winter Weather Ready?

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

Are You Winter Weather Ready?

Are you prepared for the coming cold weather?

Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not ready for it. From heavy rain and freezing temperatures to damaging winds, sleet or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage.

 While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather. To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to help ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate a potential flood hazard.
• 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.
• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
• Ask us about completing an Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no-cost assessment of your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business faster following a disaster.

When winter weather strikes, call SERVPRO of Franklin County to strike back.

Local SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration Specialist Offers Union Families Tips on Cooking Up a Safe Holiday Season

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

Union, MO (Grassroots Newswire) November 5, 2018 -- Holiday party planning begins now for many families, and Gerald Alvey of SERVPRO of Franklin County offers some important reminders to Union residents to help ensure this season glows with the warmth of good food and good friends, and not with the glare of a devastating home fire.

“The holiday season is a time when many families plan big and elaborate meals for large groups of people,” says Alvey. “But all that cooking creates an extraordinary risk of fire. For a safe and festive holiday season, it’s important to understand that risk and take steps to minimize it.”

Cooking Fire Safety

Research from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reveals that in 2017, on average, U.S. fire departments responded to a home fire every 88 seconds.1 Cooking equipment was the leading cause2 of home fires and fire injuries, causing 47 percent of home fires. These fires resulted in 20 percent of the home fire deaths and 45 percent of the injuries.

“Union, MO families should keep these statistics in mind as the holidays approach. According to the NFPA, Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by the day before Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and Christmas Eve2,” says Alvey. “Families should also be aware that frying poses the greatest risk of fire, in fact, the NFPA discourages the use of outdoor gas-fueled turkey fryers that immerse the turkey in hot oil.3  This video graphically illustrates the danger these devices can pose.” https://youtu.be/j3rF8F0JQRQ

Alvey offers these additional cooking safety tips from FEMA’s U.S. Fire Administration.4

1. Keep an eye on what you fry: If you see any smoke or the oil starts to boil, turn the burner off.
2. Stand by your pan: If you leave the kitchen, turn the burner off.
3. Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so that no one can bump them or pull them over.
4. Wear short sleeves or pull sleeves up: 18 percent of cooking fire fatalities in 2016 were caused by ignited clothing.2
5. Keep a pot lid or cookie sheet nearby to cover a pan if it catches on fire.

“Taking common sense precautions like these and keeping kids and pets out of the kitchen during meal prep can help keep your holiday celebrations safe,” says  Alvey. “The precautions you take could help prevent a devastating home fire, a tragic injury, or even the loss of life. While SERVPRO disaster response professionals are fire damage restoration specialists, they know how important it is to keep the focus on fire prevention, because for some types of loss, there is no remediation.”

SERVPRO is an industry leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services. For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit www.SERVPRO.com.

For more information on SERVPRO of Franklin County, please contact Gerald Alvey at (636) 583-5200 or admin@SERVPROoffranklincounty.com.

Citations

1. https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Fire-statistics-and-reports/Fire-statistics/Fires-in-the-US
2. https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/News-and-Research/Fire-statistics-and-reports/Fact-sheets/CookingFactSheet.ashx?la=en
3. https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Cooking/Turkey-fryers
4. https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/cooking.html

About SERVPRO®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

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SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is "Here to Help"!

The teams at SERVPRO® are ready for any disaster, big or small.

And they understand what may be small in the grand scheme of things may be huge to you, and they’re ready to help you put your life, business, or property back together “Like it never even happened.”

What can you do to be READY? Be prepared at your home or business with an Emergency Kit. Ready.gov suggests you have enough supplies to last for at least three days. Below are some suggested items to include in your kit:

• 3-day supply of nonperishable foods Water (one+ gallon per person per day)
• First-aid kit
• Prescription medication
• Sleeping bag or blankets
• Fire extinguisher
• Hygiene products
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries
• Cell phone charger
• Change of clothes
• Matches in waterproof container
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Whistle to signal for help
• Pet supplies
• Infant formula and diapers
• Important documents such as insurance policies, IDs, and bank records in a plastic container

You can also keep a condensed emergency kit in your vehicle as well.

For a more extensive list, check out Ready.gov.

Whatever the disaster, SERVPRO® of Franklin County is there when you need help, 24/7/365.

READY

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

Are you ready for whatever happens?

We have seen some epic rains that have caused disastrous flooding in Franklin County, MO. This rain and flooding have caused millions and millions of dollars of damages to home and business.  Lives have been uprooted, and businesses have been halted. Some will never recover.  

Ben Franklin famously said, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail”.  As many as 50 percent of businesses that did not have a disaster plan in place prior to the flooding may never recover.     Of the businesses that survive a disaster an overwhelming amount had a disaster plan in place.  Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or even a 100-year flood.  The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.  The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it now. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at your peace of mind.

Putting a disaster plan together sounds like a lot of work, right? Don’t worry, SERVPRO has you covered!  At no cost we can perform an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your business. This is a disaster plan created specifically for your business. We will provide a concise profile document that contains all of the critical information needed in event of an emergency. We provide a guide to help you get back in your building following a disaster. We help you identify the line of command for authorizing emergency work to begin. We provide facility details such as shut off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.  All of this information is compiled in a concise hard copy as well as a smart phone app. You control who sees the information and who you want to share it with.    

One short story shows how valuable an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) can be for you.  Approximately a week before the polar vortex of 2014, one of our marketing representative had completed an ERP for a nursing home in Sullivan.  As the thaw came, so did the broken pipes.  This same nursing home had a sprinkler pipe break but using the ERP that we just completed, they were able to locate the shut off and limited the affected area to just two partial rooms.  Had they not known where to shut off the water, the damage and interruption would have been immense. This is just one of hundreds of examples of how the ERP can help your business. 

If you’re an insurance agent, you should not only ask us to do an ERP for your office, but also all of your business customers.  Can you imagine how beneficial this free service can be for your customers?    If you’re a business, you should be calling us right now to get this done. If not, like our old friend Ben Franklin might say, “You are planning to fail!”.

Give us a call right away to schedule your free Emergency Ready Profile. It will only take a small amount of time and the value is priceless.  SERVPRO of Franklin County where Our Business is Putting you Back in Business.  636-583-5200

Faster to Any-Size Disaster

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is "Faster to Any-Size Disaster"

Kim and Dan Akers had dealt with flooding before, but they had never seen anything like this. The Akers family’s St. Clair property had flooded before in 2008 and again in 2015, but both of those times they were able to deal with the damage themselves.

After the Meramec River flooded April 29, the Akers family found their residence with close to 6 feet of water. This time, they had to call in outside help to get their home back in order.

“It was pretty devastating, I wasn’t real sure if it was all going to come back together or not,” Kim Akers said about her flooded home. “It was a record flood. Before the most we had was about two, maybe three feet in the living room. This time it was way above my head.”

The Akers family called SERVPRO Franklin County for help. SERVPRO gutted the house, cleaned and sanitized the structure, removed mold, dried out the house and cleaned the air ducts.

Akers said that the mold could have been a result of not properly cleaning after the previous floods.

“My husband and I both have had issues with our sinuses running while we’re in the house, and after seeing what we saw, there was probably mold in the house that we didn’t know was there,” she said.

Though the Akers aren’t back in their house yet, they believe that their decision to use SERVPRO will get them home faster.

“I’d definitely recommend SERVPRO,” Kim said. “You guys did a good job and took a lot of the workload off of us. In the flood of 2008 it took 13 months for us to get back in the house because we did everything ourselves. It’s going to take a little while to get back in this time, but I don’t think it’s going to take near as long.”

The Science of Drying

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying?

The knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Franklin County is trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages.

If your business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of Franklin County will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

What exactly does “speed up Mother Nature” mean? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out. For this reason, SERVPRO of Franklin County has been trained to use top-of-theline equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more.

DRYBOOK™ DOCUMENTATION 

SERVPRO of Franklin County uses the latest technology to help ensure your property is dried quickly and efficiently. DryBook™ is a proprietary tool that:

• Manages industry drying requirements. n Provides real-time documentation on the drying process.
• Validates that services are executed to standard.
• Reports to all stakeholders involved. 
• Allows real-time updates through DryBook™ Mobile integration. This improves results and restores your property at a faster rate, getting you back in your home or business sooner.

SERVPRO® also uses state-of-the-art
monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

The bottom line? SERVPRO of Franklin County has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Document Restoration

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

Document Restoration by SERVPRO

As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO® knows timely mitigation is the key to reducing severity and recovering damaged items. Water– or smoke–damaged paper can rapidly deteriorate. Without proper handling, valuable files and irreplaceable documents could be lost forever. Let SERVPRO’s Document Restoration Team help you recover your damaged paper goods before it is too late.

SERVPRO’s technicians are trained to use the most advanced technology available for document recovery and drying; in fact, the Document Restoration Team uses the same technique the Library of Congress uses to dry water-damaged books.

Why choose SERVPRO® Vacuum Freeze Drying?

Vacuum freeze drying is the most efficient and effective way to salvage water-damaged documents. The Document Restoration Team uses sublimation—turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage to avoid causing more damage to the documents. This process can recover even the most delicate items—from documents to photographs and x-rays, to entire business archives. All employees of the Document Restoration Team are HIPAA Master certified and once your items arrive at the SERVPRO® facility, 24/7 video surveillance is guaranteed.

Digitizing

With the new age of technology, digitizing records and documents has become a standard practice in most industries. This eliminates the need to have massive file storage rooms and allows us to access records at the click of a button. If your file room was damaged by water or smoke and needs to be cleaned, dried or decontaminated, digitizing might be a good choice to eliminate the need to have hundreds or even thousands of documents and records in storage.

Gamma Irradiation

Gamma irradiation is a process used for cleaning/disinfecting and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods. In a CAT 3 situation (sewage or flood water), documents are not only deteriorating but are also infected with all types of bacteria. In most storm situations, you are dealing with CAT 3 water; therefore, most of the affected documents you encounter will be contaminated. If this is the case, decontamination is always a must. In living cells, these disruptions result in damage to the DNA and other cellular structures. These photoninduced changes at the molecular level cause the death of the organism or render the organism incapable of reproduction. The gamma process does not create residuals or impart radioactivity in processed products.

Certified Destruction

Unfortunately, many businesses and government agencies have to dispose of counterfeit, faulty, expired or contaminated materials. All entities need to be certified that their products and materials are destroyed. The guarantee of certified destruction is to protect one’s liabilities, brand image or proprietary information. We guarantee certified destruction to give you peace of mind that your documents are disposed of properly.

SERVPRO’s goal is to make the process as simple as possible for customers. Contact SERVPRO of Franklin County for more information on Document Restoration services.

SAFETY FIRST: Before the Feast

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your happy holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the main cause for home fires and injuries, with Thanksgiving being the peak day for cooking-related fires.

Review the following safety tips to help ensure you can enjoy a safe holiday.

• Never leave cooking food unattended–stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If someone must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, they should turn off the stove.
• Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking. Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.
• Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.
• Keep anything flammable–pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging and towels or curtains—away from the stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.
• Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
• Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup. n Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen. Contact the local fire department for training on the proper use of extinguishers.
• Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.
• Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen, on each level of the home, near sleeping areas and inside and outside bedrooms. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.

SERVPRO of Franklin County wishes you a safe and happy holiday season

Tips on Cooking Up a Safe Holiday Season

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

Have a safe holiday season!

SERVPRO of Franklin County - Fire Damage Restoration Specialist Offers Franklin County, MO Families Tips on Cooking Up a Safe Holiday Season

Startling statistics underscore the need for caution in the kitchen.

Union, MO (Grassroots Newswire) 10/25/2018 -- Holiday party planning begins now for many families, and Jerry Alvey of SERVPRO of Franklin County, MO offers some important reminders to Union, MO residents to help ensure this season glows with the warmth of good food and good friends, and not with the glare of a devastating home fire.

“The holiday season is a time when many families plan big and elaborate meals for large groups of people,” says Alvey. “But all that cooking creates an extraordinary risk of fire. For a safe and festive holiday season, it’s important to understand that risk and take steps to minimize it.”

Cooking Fire Safety NFPA research reveals that in 2016, on average, U.S. fire departments responded to a home fire every 90 seconds. Cooking fires were the leading cause of these home fires and related home fire injuries and the second leading cause of related home fire deaths. Unattended cooking was the leading contributing factor in these fires.¹

“Union, MO families should keep these statistics in mind as the holidays approach. According to the NFPA, Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by the day before Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and Christmas Eve²,” says Alvey. “Families should also be aware that frying poses the greatest risk of fire, in fact, the NFPA discourages the use of outdoor gas-fueled turkey fryers that immerse the turkey in hot oil^.3 This video graphically illustrates the danger these devices can pose.” https://youtu.be/j3rF8F0JQRQ.

Alvey offers these additional cooking safety tips from FEMA’s U.S. Fire Administration.⁴

1. Keep an eye on what you fry: If you see any smoke or the oil starts to boil, turn the burner off.
2. Stand by your pan: If you leave the kitchen, turn the burner off.
3. Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so that no one can bump them or pull them over.
4. Wear short sleeves or pull sleeves up: 18 percent of cooking fire fatalities in 2016 were caused by ignited clothing.²
5. Keep a pot lid or cookie sheet nearby to cover a pan if it catches on fire.

“Taking common sense precautions like these and keeping kids and pets out of the kitchen during meal prep can help keep your holiday celebrations safe,” says Alvey. “The precautions you take could help prevent a devastating home fire, a tragic injury, or even the loss of life. While SERVPRO disaster response professionals are fire damage restoration specialists, they know how important it is to keep the focus on fire prevention, because for some types of loss, there is no remediation.”

SERVPRO is an industry leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services. For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit www.SERVPRO.com. For more information on SERVPRO of Franklin County, please contact Jerry Alvey at 636-583-5200 or jerry@SERVPROoffranklincounty.com.

Citations

1. https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/News-and-Research/Fire-statistics/Factsheets/FireLossFacts.pdf
2. https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/News-and-Research/Fire-statistics/Factsheets/CookingFactSheet.pdf
3. https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Cooking/Turkey-fryers
4. https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/cooking.html

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About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

9/28/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Franklin County, MO

Flooding and water damage events at Franklin County, MO 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 Franklin County

SERVPRO of Franklin County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of Franklin County has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. Once the fire department leaves, your Union home may suffer from water damage caused by firefighting efforts. We have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage Questions?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Are you “Ready for whatever happens”?

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Are you “Ready for whatever happens”?

September is National Preparedness Month. So it’s a great time to make sure you’re prepared in the event of a disaster.

SERVPRO ERP

There are many ways you can prepare, but did you know SERVPRO offers a completely FREE readiness plan?

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.

To learn more you can visit: ready.SERVPRO.com

Just ask Bella or Mike to set up an appointment or call our office 636-583-5200

Ready.gov

This is a great website helping becoming prepared in the event of a disaster and includes plans family Emergency plans. Visit it here: Ready.gov

Make a plan today. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area.  Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find.

Be “Ready for whatever happens”

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Plan for a disaster

National Preparedness Month is the perfect opportunity to share the benefits of having a readiness plan in place with your customers, business, and family. The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.” In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile®  can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action  in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing  critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations, and priority areas. The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or tablet; download SERVPRO’s free  Ready Plan app to access this information at any time using your smartphone or tablet.The ERP establishes SERVPRO of Franklin County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to 50 years experience and a System more than 1,700 Franchises strong. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood.The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan for it.  The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is  a little time, making it a great value that could save a lot of time in the future. Call SERVPRO of Franklin County to establish your Emergency READY Profile® today.  636-583-5200
 

Are you prepared?

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Are You Prepared? As a member of the Ready Campaign’s National Preparedness Coalition, SERVPRO® is proud to present the following information.

How quickly your company can get back to business after a tornado, fire, or  flood often depends on the emergency planning done today.  The regular occurrence of natural disasters demonstrates the importance of being prepared for any emergency. While each situation is unique, your organization can be better prepared if you plan carefully, put emergency procedures in place, and practice for all kinds of emergencies. 

The following are common sense measures business owners and managers can take to start getting ready. A commitment to begin planning today will help support your employees, customers, the community, the local economy, and even the country. It also protects your business investment and gives your company a better chance for survival. Review the following questions to learn if your company is prepared.

Be Informed

Do you know what kind of emergencies might affect your company? Do you know what you will do in an emergency situation?

Develop a Business Continuity Plan

Do you know which staff, procedures, and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep operating? Do you have backup plans for those operations? Do you know what you will do if your building or plant is not accessible? Do you know what you will do if your suppliers are impacted by a disaster? Are you ready for utility disruptions?

Prepare Your Emergency Plan

Do you have an evacuation and shelter in-place plan? Do you have a plan to communicate with employees before, during, and after an incident? Do you have copies of building and site maps with utilities and emergency routes marked? Are your employees trained for medical emergencies?

Practice the Emergency Plan

Have you practiced your plan recently? Do you practice and coordinate with other businesses in your building or industrial complex? Have you reviewed your plans in the last 12 months?

Review Insurance Coverage

Have you reviewed your insurance coverage recently to see if you’re covered in a disaster? Secure Your Facility and Equipment Have you secured all the ways people, products, and supplies get into your building? Have you conducted a room-by-room walk-through to determine what can be strapped down?

Improve Cybersecurity

Do you regularly install patches to your software? Have you installed a firewall on your computer? Do you regularly update your antivirus software?

Promote Family and Individual Preparedness

Do you encourage employees to have a personal emergency supply kit and a family communication plan?

If you answered “No” to any of these questions, visit ready.gov and learn how to better prepare your business.

Handle Your Franklin County, MO Commercial Water Damage with SERVPRO

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Union, MO

If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage in Franklin County, MO, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.

Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration
Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.

Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply stores. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible.

Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particle board, carpets or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at the minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present.

Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning and possibly restructuring. Water damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particle board and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

Services You Can Count On in Franklin County, MO

You can depend on SERVPRO to provide reasonable prices for commercial water damage and other services in the Franklin County, MO area. Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage, and storm damage. We also assist with mold remediation, and we're qualified to provide cleaning and building services. Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration. Whether you require cleanup after Franklin County, MO commercial water damage or simply need a carpet cleaning, call us at 636-583-5200.

St. Clair MO, Water Loss - Nathan Chase

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

Nathan Chase St. Clair MO Insurance Agent Water Damage

Nathan Chase is used to dealing with damage to his customer’s homes, but recently he had to experience it firsthand.

Chase, a State Farm agent in St. Clair came home from his vacation in Branson and found water leaking through his hallway ceiling.

“Upon further inspection, the ceiling was so wet/damaged that you could basically just poke your finger through it like it was a wet paper towel,” Chase said. “It was a sickening feeling to see.”

Although Chase has worked in the insurance industry for years, this was his first time going through a loss at his own home.

“Working in the insurance industry, I get to hear about stories like this quite often, but this was the first time I’d actually experienced it myself,” Chase said. “I immediately called Jerry Alvey, the owner of SERVPRO in Union, MO. He had his crew there in no time.”

SERVPRO found that Chase had a leaky pipe from his upstairs bathroom that had caused a crack in the ceiling. There was also a bit of mold inside the ceiling. Chase was impressed that the owner was helping in the cleanup.

“Jerry, the owner himself, was on a ladder cleaning and scrubbing/removing the mold,” he said. Chase also was pleased at how SERVPRO’s crew conducted itself.    

“His crew was so cautious during the work, taking every extra step to keep the surrounding area clean and protected while they worked, even wiping down baseboards/doorways/pictures after every session of work they completed over the last few days,” he said.

“His crew was respectful, always right on time, always over-prepared, and even assisted us in matching the paint color perfectly.”

The phrase “like it never even happened” is synonymous with SERVPRO, and Chase said SPFC lived up to that billing. 

“Without question, my hallway actually looks better than it did two weeks ago,” he said. “They are very true to their SERVPRO motto, ‘Like it never even happened.’ Please take it from me and call them first if you ever need help. They help with fire and water damage, cleanup and restoration, and are also amazing at cleaning carpets and furniture.”

Kicking Germs to the Curb

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

Kicking Germs to the Curb

Back to school unfortunately also means back to spreading germs.  I love the recent local campaign by Jim Feighery State Farm Insurance and the Washington School District, “Kick Germs to the Curb” and the national “Germs are Scary” campaign. Both programs highlight how communicable diseases increase when our kids go back to school. 

We all know how quickly viruses spread when schools back in session.  This is true for numerous pesky afflictions from colds to norovirus to strep or even C-diff, and don’t forget lice and scabies too! The “Kick Germs to the Curb” and “Germs are Scary” programs and others like them stress the importance of germ control. The Washington School District’s campaign is collected hand sanitizers and antibacterial wipes to be used at the schools to curb the spread of germs. 

An important part of these programs include education on the proper ways to wash your hands, cover your sneeze or cough, and other prevention facts. Prevention education and the right products go a long way in the decreasing of the spread of germs.   

In our line of work, we get called in quite often to schools, nursing homes and businesses to clean up after outbreaks of influenza, scabies and even c-diff.  Prevention and education are key to stopping outbreaks, and it all starts at home.  Now is the time to get that important cleaning done after a long hot summer.

This summer, your home has been more open and susceptible to the outside air and all its allergens. Germs have been brought in from all that increased foot traffic that summer brings. Cleaning floors, carpets and air ducts is a good place to start to zap some of those germs. A thorough cleaning and sanitizing of the rest of the house is the next step.

Give us a call if you need help for any of these services. We currently have back to school specials going on right now.  Help do your part in “Kicking Germs to the Curb.”  

Please have a great school year and remember, we are here to help!  

Like summer never even happened!

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

Back to school cleaning

It’s back to school time, which means the kids are finally out of the house! With your nest empty, it’s a perfect time to have restoration services done on your home.

SERVPRO of Franklin County offers several services to get your home back into pre-summer conditions, before it was torn up by your children. Have your kids spent the summer tracking in dirt, mud and other unknown substances into the house?

Then it might be time to get your carpets cleaned. SERVPRO offers a three-room special for $125, and just $25 for each additional room.

If you are noticing the air quality of your home is less than stellar – whether the air circulated is full of dust, dander or other chemicals -- an air duct cleaning may be in order.  According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association, it is recommended to have air ducts cleaned every three to five years.

Getting your air ducts cleaned will not only improve the quality of air in your home, but it can also help decrease the cost of energy bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating or cooling a home is wasted.

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’s pricing for home duct cleanings are $375 for 1-8 openings, and $475 for 9-17 openings.

Another service you might need is mold mitigation. If you have noticed mold in your home, it’s important to stop the spreading immediately.

Containing mold spores is vital to preventing mold growth, as well as getting wet surfaces dry. Mold begins to set in after two days, so there’s no time to wait.

With the kids out of the house, it’s the perfect time to get your home back in order. Give SERVPRO a call, and we’ll make your house look like summer never even happened!

Marilyn Lakaner - American Family Insurance

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

Agent Spotlight

Year Started: Dec 1993
Address: 650 Fisher Drive, Sullivan MO
Hours:  Monday – Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Phone: 573-860-2052
Website:  marilynlakaner.com

1. What types of insurance does your business specialize in? 
   We primarily insure auto, home, business and life.
2. What made you decide to become an insurance agent, and how long have you been one?
   I started out in 1988 working as a secretary for another agent in Cuba, MO.  I was offered, seven years later, an opportunity to have my own agency here in Sullivan.
3. What do you enjoy most about doing business in your community?
   I really enjoy clients coming by the office.  That’s one thing that I love about being in a small town.  We have monthly interactions with so many people.  We know when they get married, buy a home, have children and grandchildren.  I love seeing families grow and succeed.
4. In what ways does your business support your community?
   I’m involved in the Sullivan Rotary club and currently serve as secretary.  I’m a member of the Sullivan Area Chamber of Commerce as well.
5. Have you ever needed the services of SERVPRO? If so, what was your experience?
   I have never personally needed the services of SERVPRO, but my clients have. 
6. Have your clients who’ve used SERVPRO been happy with our services? 
   SERVPRO does a great job in being proactive with my clients and getting the job done!
7. What is your favorite part about your job?  My job is rewarding because I, and American Family, help our clients through some of the toughest experiences of their lives.  It’s what we do, it’s what we promise.
8. Share some personal information! Do you have a spouse/ kids/ pets? 
   I’m married to John (for 34 years) and we have 3 grown children.  We also have an 8 year old golden-doodle named Niko.
9. Outside of work, what is your hobby?  Believe it or not, I also own a fudge shop!
10. Is there a motto you follow, or words you live by?
    Mom always told us to “always tell the truth and you’ll never have to remember what you said.”
11. Would you like to add anything else?  I want to thank you for always offering us free continuing education classes close to home!  Living out in the country, we usually have to travel to attend classes, but you have made it more accessible to me and many other rural agencies to get the classes needed, closer to home.

Back to School Restoration

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

Back to School Restoration

It’s back to school time, which means the kids are finally out of the house! With your nest empty, it’s a perfect time to have restoration services done on your home.

SERVPRO of Franklin County offers several services to get your home back into pre-summer conditions, before it was torn up by your children.

Have your kids spent the summer tracking in dirt, mud and other unknown substances into the house? Then it might be time to get your carpets cleaned. SERVPRO offers a three-room special for $125, and just $25 for each additional room.

If you are noticing the air quality of your home is less than stellar – whether the air circulated is full of dust, dander or other chemicals -- an air duct cleaning may be in order. 

According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association, it is recommended to have air ducts cleaned every three to five years.

Getting your air ducts cleaned will not only improve the quality of air in your home, but it can also help decrease the cost of energy bills.

According to the U.S Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating or cooling a home is wasted. 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’s pricing for home duct cleanings are $375 for 1-8 openings, and $475 for 9-17 openings.

Another service you might need is mold mitigation. If you have noticed mold in your home, it’s important to stop the spreading immediately.

Containing mold spores is vital to preventing mold growth, as well as getting wet surfaces dry. Mold begins to set in after two days, so there’s no time to wait.

With the kids out of the house, it’s the perfect time to get your home back in order.

Give SERVPRO a call, and we’ll make your house look like summer never even happened!

Back To School Cleaning

8/14/2018 (Permalink)

Back to school cleaning with SERVPRO

Now that the kids are heading back to school, it presents a great opportunity to get your house cleaned before the cold winter weather sets in. With the kids being home for the summer and coming in and out your house was exposed to dirt and pollen. Now that the kids are back to school, it’s a great time to clean up your home and get ready for fall.

Create a checklist

We tend to get lax on our chores while enjoying summer activities. It’s time to get the household chores in line by creating a list for your children to help get them involved. Start by having them clean their rooms at least once a week to prevent clutter from building up. Then give them a few chores throughout the rest of the house. You can motivate your kids by establishing an award system.

Declutter

Clutter can accumulate quickly and take up a lot of space. Objects you no longer need or use and eliminating it can help your reorganize in a better way.

Clean Your Carpet and Upholstery

Now that the summer activities are over, it’s a great time to get all of that grime, dirt and pollen that have settled throughout your home. Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. 
IICRC states that 79% of soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet. A good rule of thumb would be to professionally clean your carpet every 12 months. The best advice is to clean carpets before they become totally saturated with soil. If you wait until carpets look really dirty, the carpets may never be restored to their former appearance. Dirt builds up in layers, and when a carpet looks dirty you are only seeing the dirt at the tips of the fibers. More dirt is hiding below the surface down near the base of the pile, causing damage to the carpet. When a carpet is saturated with dirt, the soil has penetrated crevices and has become firmly lodged.

Doormats

The best way to keep outside dirt out of your home is by establishing a “no shoes” rule in the house. Placing a doormat or shoe basket near the entrances of your home will encourage others to follow the no shoes rules.

Appliances

While we use our washing machines and dishwashers regularly, can you honestly say this is something you clean as needed? These items pick up residue and foul odors and should be cleaned out. It can also help them be more effective. Wipe down these machines and use white vinegar to help eliminate any odors. Be sure to check with your user’s manual to learn more about their regular maintenance.

If your busy schedule prevents you from doing thorough fall house cleaning, you should contact SERVPRO of Franklin County for your cleaning needs. We are always “Here to Help”!  

Give us a call today – (636) 583-5200

New SERVPRO First Responder Bowl to be played at Cotton Bowl Stadium

8/14/2018 (Permalink)

DALLAS – In a joint effort to honor the service and sacrifice of America’s First Responders, the annual college football bowl game played at Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, Texas has been renamed the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl.  Kickoff for the newly christened SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is set for December 26 at 12:30 p.m. CT (1:30 p.m. ET) and will be televised by ESPN.  The agreement between ESPN Events and SERVPRO was brokered by Denver-based Impression Sports & Entertainment.

"We are truly grateful for all first responders’ sacrifice and service,” said Brant Ringler, Executive Director of the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl. “It is a tremendous privilege to honor these brave men and women who protect our communities 24/7/365. As this game continues to grow, so do our ties with first responders. Additionally, having a sponsor like SERVPRO who works along-side and supports these community heroes reinforces our goals of recognizing our first responders.”

"We are proud to present the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl dedicated to honoring some of the hardest working men and women in our country" said Sue Steen, CEO of SERVPRO Industries, Inc. "We recognize the dedication and selfless acts of our First Responders and are honored to help highlight and celebrate the commitment of these everyday heroes."

The 2018 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is the ninth edition of the bowl game, formerly known as the Heart of Dallas Bowl, and part of the 89-year history of games being played at Cotton Bowl Stadium on the grounds of Dallas’ Fair Park, which features 227 acres of museums, attractions, history, art and performances located in the heart of the ninth largest city in the United States.

First responders to be honored include police officers, firefighters, EMS workers, correctional officers, search and rescue, dispatchers, security guards, federal agents, border patrol agents and military personnel who have specialized training and are the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency.

“This is an exciting change, and we are humbled by the fact that an actual bowl game has been named exclusively for the first responders of this country,” Dallas Fire-Rescue Fire Chief David Coatney said.

“We are truly honored to have a bowl game here in Dallas named after the hard working men and women serving and protecting communities across this country.  It always feels great to be recognized, and I know our officers and firefighters are touched by this overwhelming show of support, “said Dallas Police Chief U. Renee Hall.

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl tickets will go on sale in September.  Tickets for First Responders will continue to be underwritten by our corporate sponsors. Planning for the First Responder Fan Fest in Cotton Bowl Plaza will begin immediately.  Anyone wanting more information on the bowl game can visit www.firstresponderbowl.com.

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is one of 14 owned and operated bowl games by ESPN Events, a division of ESPN.

ESPN Events

ESPN Events, a division of ESPN, owns and operates a large portfolio of 32 collegiate sporting events worldwide. The roster includes three Labor Day weekend college football games; FCS opening-weekend game; 14 college bowl games, 12 college basketball events, a college softball event and two college award shows, which accounts for approximately 300-plus hours of programming, reaches almost 64 million viewers and attracts over 700,000 attendees each year. With satellite offices in Albuquerque, Birmingham, Boca Raton, Boise, Dallas-Fort Worth, Honolulu, Las Vegas, Montgomery and St. Petersburg, ESPN Events builds relationships with conferences, schools and local communities, as well as providing unique experiences for teams and fans. ESPN Events also manages the Big 12 Corporate Partner Program.

Collegiate Football

Academy Sports + Outdoors Texas Bowl (Houston); AdvoCare Texas Kickoff (Houston); Bad Boy Mowers Gasparilla Bowl (Tampa, Fla.); Birmingham Bowl (Alabama); Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl (Florida); Camping World Kickoff (Orlando, Fla.); Celebration Bowl (Atlanta); Famous Idaho Potato Bowl (Boise); Frisco Bowl (Texas); Guardian Credit Union FCS Kickoff (Montgomery, Ala.); Hawai’i Bowl (Honolulu); Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl (Dallas-Fort Worth); Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl (Nassau);  MEAC/SWAC Challenge (Atlanta); Mitsubishi Motors Las Vegas Bowl (Nevada);   New Mexico Bowl (Albuquerque); Raycom Media Camellia Bowl (Montgomery, Ala.); SERVPRO First Responder Bowl (Dallas-Fort Worth);  The Home Depot College Football Awards (Atlanta)

Collegiate Basketball

AdvoCare Invitational (Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Fla.); Armed Forces Classic (Fort Bliss, Texas); Charleston Classic (South Carolina); College Basketball Awards Presented by Wendy’s (Los Angeles); Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic (Honolulu); Jimmy V Men’s Classic presented by Corona (New York City); Jimmy V Women’s Classic Presented by Corona (South Bend, Ind.); Myrtle Beach Invitational (Conway, S.C.); NIT Season Tip-Off (Brooklyn, N.Y.); Puerto Rico Tip-Off; State Farm Champions Classic (Indianapolis) and Wooden Legacy (Fullerton, Calif.)

Collegiate Softball

St. Pete/Clearwater Elite Invitational (Clearwater, Fla.)

For more information, visit the official website, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube pages.

About SERVPRO^®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO^® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO's professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO^® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

About Impression Sports & Entertainment

Impression Sports & Entertainment (Impression Sports) specializes in providing clients with full-service sponsorship sales representation, sponsorship consulting and venue naming rights services. Founded in 2011, Impression Sports has established itself as one of the leading firms in the industry by working with top brands, including USC, the San Antonio Spurs, Auburn University, the Fiesta Bowl organization, USA Swimming and ESPN Events among others. Its management team provides in-depth experience and results-driven success in venue naming rights, title sponsorships and high-profile sales and sponsorship platforms.

Based in Denver, CO, Impression Sports is owned by Home Team Sports (HTS). HTS is a sales unit of FOX Sports that offers advertisers one-stop shopping for TV and digital media sponsorship of every MLB, NBA and NHL home team across the U.S., reaching 90+ million homes with its platforms.  For more information on Impression Sports, including a complete client roster and testimonials, visit www.impressionsports.com

9th Annual NFL Pool

8/9/2018 (Permalink)

How it works:

Each week pick winners from all NFL games for the week. Pick total points from the Monday night tie breaker.

On Mondays we will email your next week's pick sheet. Each week we will email out the standings. Each correct pick is awarded 1 point.

The cost is $20 per team. You can have as many teams as you like.

• 1st place winner receives 70% of the pool plus a free air duct cleaning.
• 2nd place winner receives 20% of the pool plus 2 rooms of carpet cleaning.
• 3rd place winner receives 10% of the pool.

What you need to do:

• Sign up by Tuesday, September 4th. To sign up, please call us at 636-583-5200 or email Bella iking.spfc@gmail.com or Mike malvey.spfc@gmail.com.
• Get your money to us as soon as possible. Drop if off by the office or we can send someone to collect.

Have fun! It was a blast last year!

Call the cleanup team that's "Faster to Any Size Disaster"

7/19/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Franklin County for disaster restoration

Faster to any size disaster.

This is not just another tag line for SERVPRO®—it is a commitment to be there when you need us most.

Whether you are a small business or home owner facing minor fire or water damage, or a property manager dealing with a widespread disaster, the SERVPRO® System has the resources needed to respond quickly and efficiently. The sooner help arrives, the sooner restoration begins and the sooner you can resume business as usual.

Our SERVPRO of Franklin County franchise is just the tip of the iceberg. Should a major disaster such as a flood or wildfire occur, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team® is always poised and ready to go where they are needed.

If a fire, water or mold damage strikes, no matter the size, call SERVPRO of Franklin County. Backed by a system of more than 1,700 Franchises strong, we’ll help make your property disaster “Like it never even happened."

Does your Sullivan, MO home have water damage?

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Sullivan. MO

Whether a storm passes or the upstairs toilet overflows, your home may suffer water damage that is difficult to repair. There are many things you can do to begin repairing any destruction, but a professional will likely be needed to get rid of any serious health or structural threats.

Floods can carry pathogens and water damage left alone long enough may become a breeding ground for mold. 

Sewage backups should be considered very dangerous. The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness. Special training and equipment is necessary to safely clean this type of contamination.

The main reason why a building is sensitive to water damage is because moisture can be difficult to detect. Standing liquids can encourage microbial growth within 24 hours and can saturate all kinds of textiles and seep through drywall.

Moisture may collect behind the walls, where mold and bacteria may multiply out of sight. Reacting quickly enough, clothes and furniture may be saved. However, there can be electrical and other hazards when entering a building that has recently been flooded. 

SERVPRO of Franklin County can quickly identify what items in the home are compromised by water damage.

Normally, anything that is porous may need to be discarded if it has come in contact with contaminated fluids. (For example, black water losses like sewage backups or flood damage.) These porous items, like mattresses, box springs, pillows and particle board, trap more moisture than other materials and foster the growth of microbes. 

Our technicians can locate hidden pockets of moisture using specialized equipment. There are some materials that may not feel wet on the outside.   

When these moisture pockets are found, our technicians will expose them to air by removing any drywall or other materials in the way. Our technicians will monitor and document the drying process to ensure your property is back to normal.

Read more about the typical restoration process.

Our highly trained technicians are ready to respond immediately to flood or water damage at your Union, MO or Franklin County, MO property.  We also offer Commercial Services to our local businesses. 

Please follow our tips outlined in the Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide to protect yourself and your property.

Do You Have Water or Flood Damage? Give us a call for a free estimate – (636) 583-5200

Does your Sullivan, MO home need duct cleaning?

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

Duct cleaning Sullivan, MO

Did you know your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality?

Inspecting the ductwork in your Sullivan, MO facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO of Franklin County's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO® of Franklin County will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork. In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke, or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, we can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

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

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

The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.

Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.

Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.

As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.

Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact your local SERVPRO® of Franklin County today. 

Mold in your Sullivan, MO home or business

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Damage Sullivan, MO

Do you suspect mold in your Union, MO home or business?

A green fuzzy film on the wall or a stale musty smell. These are all signs that your house or business probably has mold.

When someone suspects mold we suggest a visual inspection first. In addition we will use our moisture meters to search for a moisture source. Often we are successful with this method in identifying the existence of mold and the proper remediation plan. If a visual inspection is not successful or the situation requires additional confirmation we can test for mold. The most common method of testing is air sampling. A canister traps air and than is tested by the lab. This will determine the existence of mold, the amount of mold, and the type of mold. In addition swab or tape lift samples can be taken which are helpful In identifying mold in a more focused or central area. The down side to testing is it can be expensive. Outside testing firms charge at a minimum between $800-$1500. We charge considerably less but it still can be costly.

Once mold has been identified either visually or by test, a mitigation protocol is developed. The protocol outlines the remediation work to be done and the areas that are affected. The protocol is usually followed to the letter. The first protocol requirement is always to set up containment. Heavy 6 mil plastic is used to contain the affected area and protect the unaffected area. Next we place the affected area under negative pressure with air scrubbers. This creates a sort of vacuum keeping stray mold spores from affecting other areas. Later those same air scrubbers are used to scrub the air. Since most porous items cannot be effectively cleaned, they are removed and properly disposed of. An example of porous household items would be carpet, pad, drywall, insulation , upholstered items, mattress, stuffed animals, etc. Porous items can only be cleaned on the surface and mold roots can burrow deeper making it impossible to completely remove all of the mold.

After all of the porous items are removed we can focus on the cleanable non porous items. Some examples of non porous household items are subfloor, hard flooring, floor joists, wall studs, concrete walls and floors, wood furniture, etc. Under negative pressure all of these items are HEPPA vacuumed than cleaned with a EPA approved disinfectant. A lot of time the affected areas will need to be agitated using brushes, sanders, or even multimedia machines such as ice or soda blasting. This ensures that the mold and its root are removed. The process is HEPPA Vacuum, clean and repeat. Usually this process repeats at least three times. Remember this is all performed in contained areas, under negative pressure by highly trained crew members wearing personal protection equipment such as protective suits, eye protection and respirators.
Once the structure and any non porous items are properly cleaned usually the hvac system and air ducts are cleaned. This prevents contaminants from being recirculated throughout the newly remediated building. Lastly as a preventative option, the structure can be sealed with a EPA approved sealer/mold inhibitor. The sealer serves as a final protection against the reoccurrence of mold.

Next to the question “Do I have mold?”, the most popular question is “How much is it going to cost to remove the mold?” The answer is not so simple.
Because every situation is unique there is no square foot price for estimating. Every job has to be inspected and uniquely estimated. On every job we must determine how much labor, how much equipment, how much chemical
and if any specialized equipment or final testing would be required. Based on these factors we put together a time and material estimate and present it to the customer making sure they have a full understanding of what to expect.
Hopefully this short article spreads some light on the mysteries of mold and mold remediation.

If you or your client suspects mold, don’t let it continue to grow. Give us a call we would be happy to inspect, test and provide a estimate if necessary. 

After the Storm: Checking your property for damage

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

Franklin County, MO Storm Damage

Storms can bring heavy rains, strong winds and destructive hail. Your home protects you from the elements, so be sure to check it for damage afterward. It’s a good idea to check your property even if you do not suspect damage. This can help prevent more problems later on and determine if you need to make an insurance claim.

Roof
Your roof can be very vulnerable, because so many things can damage it. High winds, downed tree branches or a hailstorm, look for these indicators of damage:

• Holes in the roof
• Split Seams
• Missing Shingles
• Leaks in roof or ceiling

Exteriors

Siding, stucco and brick are all durable but they can suffer storm damage. Check for:

• Cracking, chipping or ding and dents on siding. Check in different lighting because you may see something you missed.
• Holes in stucco
• Damaged brick and tuck pointing.
• Detached or damaged trim, gutters, etc.
  
  

General Tips

• Severe storms often will knock down power lines. If this happens on your property, rope off 30 feet in each direction around the line and do not touch it. Call 911 and the power company immediately.
• Be sure to do a full check of your property, including things such as your air-conditioning unit, fences, vent caps, etc. And don’t forget to check your vehicles if they were not garaged at the time of the storm.
• Check your crawl space and basement. You need to be sure no water is getting in, and, if it is, make sure it is removed quickly via a sump pump or underground drainage system.
• Take pictures of all damage from different angles. Finally, knowing the details of your homeowners coverage, your limits and your deductibles can help you during the insurance claims process. It’s a great idea to examine your policy and know what your homeowners insurance covers now, before the storm.

Restoration

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your Franklin County, MO home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Need Storm or Flood Restoration Service? Call us today 636-583-5200

Finding Affordable Carpet Cleaning in Union, MO

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

Carpet Cleaning Franklin County. MO

It’s completely possible to get affordable carpet cleaning that is also highly effective. While to some extent, you can expect to get what you pay for. It is important to make sure the cleaner you choose is certified through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). 

With a certified professional, affordable carpet cleaning really means treatment that will preserve the carpeting for much longer, ensuring that the homeowner doesn’t have to waste money on follow-up visits. For example, a cheap crew might do the job for less, but they aren’t going to be as thorough, and they may even cause problems of their own with overwatering or poor soil extraction. In this case, the carpet will accrue new soils much faster, or may retain much of the soil the crew was supposed to remove. Worse yet, if excess water is left behind, it can possibly promote the spread of mold and other microbes, both of which can risk the health of those living in the home.

IICRC certified technicians know how to do the job right the first time, and with sophisticated professional equipment and methodology, the carpeting will be clean and ready to withstand many months of enjoyment before it needs to be cleaned again.

The SERVPRO of Franklin County staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

Need Carpet or Upholstery Cleaning?
Call Today – (636) 583-5200

Using Cheap Carpet Cleaning Services Could Cause More Damage

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

Affordable Carpet Cleaning Franklin County, MO

Cheap carpet cleaning services might save a homeowner some money, but it may not save their carpeting. Although we always recommend regular maintenance, often homeowners wait until their flooring is heavily soiled. An untrained technician will be unable to give the service needed. In fact, an uncertified professional can make the carpets condition worse, forcing a homeowner to spend more than they planned.

The major issue with cheap carpet cleaning is their inconsistent quality of treatment. With certification comes knowledge, so when you choose a certified firm such as SERVPRO of Franklin County, you know you are getting someone who knows what they are doing. Inconsistent treatment though, can cause problems once the technician leaves. In addition to poor soil removal overall, improper cleaning can leave the carpeting open for quick re-soiling, forcing additional treatment right away. Also, if a technician doesn’t apply water or cleansing agents properly, it can cause health problems for the home’s occupants. Specifically, excess water will allow molds and bacteria to fester, and it may also attract pests. Untrained crews may also employ low quality cleaning agents as well, and if any residue is left behind, it may cause breathing problems or illness if it is ingested or inhaled.

Saving money can be a good thing, but not when it comes to carpet cleaning. Opting for a cut-rate firm can lead to more problems. 

From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to properly clean your carpets.

You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, but our professional residential cleaning services can also make a dirty carpet "Like it never even happened."

Need Cleaning Services? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Toilet Overflow?

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

Toilet overflow; Water Damage Restoration; Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Franklin County.

Sewage Cleanup and Restoration

Water from sewer system backups should be considered very dangerous. The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness. Special training and equipment is necessary to safely clean this type of contamination.

Sewage Backup or Toilet Overflow? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

There are three major types of contaminated water. SERVPRO of Franklin County will inspect that contaminated water to determine the type of water and then plan the appropriate response to safely restore your home or business.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

• This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet. If left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3 water depending upon such factors as time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.
• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

• This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category 2 water may include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.
• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

• This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.
• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Emergency Service

Sewage backup should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. We are the water damage restoration specialists with specific training and expertise to safely restore your home or business.  You can contact us 24/7 for your commercial and residential emergency water restoration.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Franklin County is close by and ready to respond to your flood or water damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the Franklin County, MO community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be. 

What You Should Know About Sewage Clean Up

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

Sewage damage Franklin County, MO

Sewage is one of the most dangerous substances to enter homes or buildings.

The IICRC has complied guidelines for professional sewage clean-up called the Standard for Water Damage Restoration (S500).

Here are the key principles you should know about sewage back-ups:

• Sewage contains a variety of pathogenic – disease causing – fungi, bacteria, viruses and parasites. Anyone who works on sewage losses must have updated vaccinations, including one for Hepatitis B.
• Sewage exposure is particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, including anyone under two or over 60, those who are pregnant, ill, recovering from surgery, on prescription drugs or chemotherapy, or are AIDS victims.
• It is not safe to stay in a building that’s flooded with sewage unless the contaminated area can be completely sealed off and placed under controlled air flow so that there will be no cross contamination of unaffected areas.
• Highly absorbent sewage-saturated materials, such as carpet, pad, upholstery, bedding, wicker, paper or even fabrics that can’t be washed in hot water (130°F/54°C) for at least 10 minutes, must be contained and disposed of properly.  This goes for sewage-saturated drywall, insulation and several other structural materials too.  There’s simply too great a health risk involved if any of these materials are dried in place and cleaned only.
• Only the most highly trained professionals should attempt sewage remediation work. Then, a “third party” indoor environmental professional can provide post-remediation verification or “clearance testing” to ensure that the home or building is safe to re-occupy.

Special training and equipment is necessary to safely clean this type of contamination. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Sewage Backup or Toilet Overflow? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Realtors: Dealing with Mold

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation for realtors - Call SERVPRO

As a realtor, you work hard at finding people a place they can call home. You also work hard at presenting less-than-desirable houses in a way that suddenly appears like home to someone else. In doing so, sometimes mold is one of the battles you pursue. At SERVPRO of Franklin County, we want to help you.

Be an Informed Resource

Molds are found in every environment, and mold spores reduce rapidly when moisture is present. An Institute of Medicine study found excessive dampness indoors encourages the growth of molds and other organisms, causing a public health problem. The EPA advised that the potential health concerns from molds are an important reason to prevent moisture problems leading to mold growth. It is especially important to clean up existing indoor mold growth to increase property appeal and retain its value. If a property has experienced a water intrusion, SERVPRO of Franklin County can inspect the damage to see whether moisture has penetrated materials or is allowing mold growth.

Control Moisture - Reduce Mold

Prior to listing a property, the following steps can be taken to reduce the potential for moisture buildup or mold growth. Should a damage event occur, timely response is the key to preventing further damage--act within the first 24 to 48 hours.

• Correct any water leaks or standing water
• Remove standing water under cooling coils or air handling units
• Properly maintain humidifiers, if used
• Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation materials
• Steam cleaning and other methods involving moisture should not be used on any kind of duct work
• Install a ventilation system

If you suspect a listing has mold damage, we can help you. Just give us a call to hear more about our mold remediation services. 636-583-5200

Within Minutes of a Water Leak

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Union, MO

Within Minutes

Within minutes of a water leak in your home, water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path. The water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings, your furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets. Your photographs, books, and other paper goods will start to swell and warp. Within 24 hours, your drywall will begin to swell and break down, you may even notice a musty odor. Therefore, when you have water damage, you want to call someone that arrives quickly to get started.

Not only does SERVPRO offer 24/7 response time 7 days a week, our goal is to be on site within 4 hours of loss notification. Usually, our response time is even less. For example, at a recent loss in Union, MO, we were on site within 20 minutes. This loss was in the basement of the home with most of the rooms 100% saturated. Drywall had to be removed as it was falling and to find the source. Non-salvageable materials were removed, and a power distribution box was required.  There were also some contents that needed to be moved for the drying process. We used our moisture monitoring equipment to effectively measure and document the drying process to ensure the home was properly dried. This home was dry within 4 days with our state-of-the-art equipment.

If you have water damage in your home, please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

You should call the water damage restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Franklin County for your water loss. We are always “here to help”!

Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Be READY: Storms

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Be READY with SERVPRO - Franklin County, MO

Severe weather can happen anytime, in any part of the country. Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms associated with freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds.

Know your risk:
Tornadoes
Floods
Thunderstorms & Lightning

Develop an emergency plan based on your local weather hazards and practice your plan.

• Make a family emergency plan
• Be informed about emergency alerts

What can you do when your Franklin County, MO home suffers water damage?  Click Here to visit our blog post covering water damage.

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm, know who to call to quickly get help.

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial.  You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job.

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition. SERVPRO of Franklin County can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

SERVPRO of Franklin County is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here too, and are proud to be part of the Union community. We are also part of a national network of 1,650 with special Disaster Recover Teams that can respond with additional resources during catastrophic storms and major events.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (636) 583-5200

6 Summer Cleaning Ideas

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Summer Cleaning Ideas

These long days and warm weather are great for spending time outside. Kids have a blast playing outside and enjoying the weather. Unfortunately, this can also mean more work for you as kids, pets and guests bring in all sorts of dirt and mess! Although you may find yourself with some extra time with an empty house while everyone is outside, so summer can be a great time for specialty cleaning projects.

Here are 6 cleaning ideas you can accomplish this year:

Pantry & Refrigerator
Start by checking the dates on foods. If its expired, throw it away! With growing kids, there can also be a lot of half eaten items that have spent some serious time on the shelves. Now is the time to purge and organize! If there’s items that you never use, but isn’t expired, it might be a good idea to just get rid of it. You can always donate the food so it doesn’t go to waste!

Clean your upholstery
When was the last time you cleaned your sofa or recliner? With the family outside playing, it can be the perfect time to get your furniture cleaned.

Learn more about upholstery cleaning.

Clean the garage
 If you park in the garage, the winter has probably left it filthy from the road dirt. If you don’t park in the garage “out of sight, out of mind” may be why it could use some serious cleaning. Take items out of the garage and into the driveway. Organize, get rid of things you don’t need or are broken. While putting things back, give everything a place. Consider overhead storage, bins, etc. to keep things tidy.

Rearrange the kids rooms
 This can have a lot of benefits. Most kids will enjoy the excitement of a new arrangement of furniture. You may even consider adding some new items and getting rid of the older furniture. The major bonus of this is finding the hiding spots for dirty clothes and getting the dust and allergens that have been building up in some harder to clean places.

Clean the carpets
It can be a great time to have the carpets cleaned. We recommend cleaning your carpets at least once a year.

Learn more about carpet cleaning.

Air ducts & HVAC Cleaning
 With the summer heat, chances are your air conditioning system will be working hard. Be sure to get it cleaned out so it can work properly and efficiently and so it’s not spreading dust or bacteria into the air.

 Learn more about duct cleaning.

 SERVPRO of Franklin County
 When you decide it’s time to have some extra cleaning done, give the professionals a call. You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, but our professional residential cleaning services can also make a dirty carpet "Like it never even happened."

Need Cleaning Services?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Leave the Hassle of Board-Ups to the Professionals

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Board up after fire damage

Whether after a fire, storm, or other structural disaster, boarding up damaged property is a burden that no one should ever have to go through— especially if it is your property that has been damaged. Boarding up damaged property incorrectly could cause secondary damages such as moisture or animal intrusion, making the situation even worse. The process of boarding up after an unexpected damage can also be as dangerous as the damage itself.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Franklin County provides 24-hour residential and commercial services. As a locally owned and operated business, we’re dedicated to being faster to any size disaster, with the training, equipment, and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs.

SERVPRO of Franklin County can board up the damaged property and mitigate and remediate the original damage, providing you with peace of mind while helping make it “Like it never even happened.”

What To Do If You Find Water In The Basement?

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Water in your Union, MO basement?

Water in the basement can be caused by a lot of factors. The room may sit under the water table, which will slowly push water into the home. A disaster like a flood can quickly fill the room with fluid, as well as a burst pipe or other plumbing mishap. No matter what causes the water to build up in the home, it will take a certified team to remove it and restore the basement effectively.

There are a couple steps, though, that a homeowner can take to minimize damage and make the home safe to navigate through. If a pipe burst or is leaking, then cutting off the supply line into the home can halt the problem. Also, switching off the home’s power may be necessary, as an electrical discharge can make walking through water exceedingly dangerous and cause a fire.

Safety is the primary concern when contending with excess moisture, and a certified crew will be able to get the home restored in while avoiding any dangerous situations.

SERVPRO of Franklin County is water damage restoration specialists and are ready to restore your home or business back to pre-water damage condition. We quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment. SERVPRO of Franklin County uses moisture monitoring equipment to effectively measure and document the drying process to ensure your property is dry.

Please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Need Water Damage or Flood Cleanup Services?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

What You Need To Know About Mold

6/7/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Damage Franklin County, MO

Ten Things To Know About Mold

1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints.
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by: 
   -Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
   -Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
   -Increasing ventilation
   -Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

Source: cdc.gov/mold

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold infestation is different, from the amount of mold to the types of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate The SERVPRO of Franklin County process for a “typical” mold remediation infestation:

1. Emergency Contact - (636) 583-5200
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
7. Restoration

Common Mold Misconceptions

It’s easy to understand why many people struggle to grasp the facts and issues surrounding indoor mold because sensational news stories and advertising cloud and obscure the real issues. Educate yourself with the facts about mold and learn about the mold remediation process.

• What is “Black Mold”?
• “Mold Removal” versus Mold Remediation

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Franklin County is close by and ready to help with your mold-damaged property. We are proud to be an active member of the Franklin County, MO community and want to pitch in and help make our community the best it can be.

Extreme Heat

6/7/2018 (Permalink)

Stay safe in extreme heat

As summer approaches, it is time to consider safety precautions for extreme heat in the coming months. Heat affects all people, but especially the young, elderly, sick, and overweight.

Urban area residents also have a greater chance of being affected than those who live in rural areas due to the heat island effect. According to the EPA, “the sun can heat dry, exposed urban surfaces, such as roofs and pavement, to temperatures 50–90°F hotter than the air, while shaded or moist surfaces—often in more rural surroundings—remain close to air temperatures.” These surface heat islands are strongest during the day when the sun is shining, while the atmospheric heat islands are more likely after sunset “due to the slow release of heat from urban infrastructure.”

Whether you are in an urban or rural area, there are several things you can do to prepare for and prevent extreme heat from affecting you. If possible, stay indoors in air conditioning. Be sure to check on your pets who may be outdoors or bring them inside. Stay hydrated and limit alcohol and caffeine intake. If you must go outside, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and be sure to apply sunscreen often. Pay attention to signs of heat exhaustion, which are heavy sweating; weakness; cold, pale, and clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; and fainting, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which is life-threatening. Signs of heat stroke are a high body temperature (103°+), rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness. If you think someone has heat stroke, call 911 immediately and move the person somewhere cool. Reduce body temperature with cool, wet cloths or a bath. Do not give a person with heat stroke fluids, and treat the situation as a serious medical emergency (CDC).

If you live in a humid climate, be aware of the heat index. The heat index factors in the humidity, which can make the temperature feel 15° hotter.

Extreme heat is a serious danger. For more information on preparation and prevention, visit ready.gov or cdc.gov.

Washington, MO Professional Mold Damage

6/7/2018 (Permalink)

Washington, MO Mold Damage

Professional Mold Damage Remediation in Washington, MO

All it takes is excess humidity or a small water leak for mold damage in Washington, MO to form in your home or business. Mold spores can produce harmless allergens, irritants, and other minor health effects. The first step in addressing any growth is to identify and manage the source. If moisture problems are not addressed, then any fungi cleanup or removal will only be a short-term solution. At some point, this type of growth will return.

Here are some interesting mold facts and myths:

• How many types of mold are there? There are more than 100,000 types and species of mold. The common types of home and office mold species are Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Alternaria.

• Can mold can only grow around pipes, leaks or because of floods? Mold does not grow on surfaces that are directly affected by water. Mold spores often occur within the HVAC systems of buildings and homes. They can grow on any surface that has its ideal environment, moisture, and humidity.

• Is black mold worse than other molds? Mold growth comes in a range of colors. Many molds classified black are actually a very dark green. Black mold is not necessarily more dangerous than other species of mold.

• Can this fungus cause skin rashes? The CDC reports that exposure to molds doesn’t contribute to rashes.

• Can I clean mold to eliminate it? Mold can become latent and reactivate. Tiny mold spores replicate every 24 hours, thus often growing back. For porous materials, like ceiling tiles, carpeting, wood, paper, and drywall, surface cleaning is often not enough.

If you see signs of mold damage in your Washington, MO home or business don't put out the for sale sign. Instead, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County.  As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Franklin County provides 24-hour residential and commercial services. As a locally owned and operated business, we’re dedicated to being faster to any size disaster, with the training, equipment, and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call today! 636-583-5200

SERVPRO will handle your Commercial Water Damage

6/7/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage

Handle Your Franklin County, MO Commercial Water Damage with SERVPRO

If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage in Franklin County, MO, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.

Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration
Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.

Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply stores. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible.

Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particle board, carpets or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at the minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present.

Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning and possibly restructuring. Water damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particle board and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

Services You Can Count On in Franklin County, MO
You can depend on SERVPRO to provide reasonable prices for commercial water damage and other services in the Franklin County, MO area. Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage, and storm damage. We also assist with mold remediation, and we're qualified to provide cleaning and building services. Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration. Whether you require cleanup after Franklin County, MO commercial water damage or simply need a carpet cleaning, call us at 636-583-5200.

What Mold Specialists Do After a Flood

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Damage Franklin County MO

“Many people aren’t aware of the dangers or the difficulty level of removing mold from a facility,” said IICRC Chairman Tony Wheelwright. “Mold remediation is a potentially hazardous process that should only be undertaken by a certified professional.”
Five steps each mold-removal specialist takes when conducting mold remediation include:

1.       Determine the degree of contamination

The first step for a mold remediation specialist may be to bring in an Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) to determine the extent of the mold damage and test for contamination within the facility.

Because mold spores and other microscopic contaminants can travel easily throughout a building, the IEP may collect and analyze samples from affected, as well as unaffected, areas of the building. Once the IEP has finished the inspection they will develop a remediation plan for the mold-removal specialist with steps to return the home to its preloss condition (Condition 1).

2.       Set up and verify the containment

To make sure mold contamination does not spread to other areas of a facility, the mold-remediation specialist will set up containment by creating isolation barriers.

Once the barriers are set up, the specialist will need to verify the containment with a lower partial pressure differential (negative pressure) to ensure there is no air leakage between containment zones.

Exit chambers will then be used to serve as a transition between the containment and the unaffected area of the building. Once the containment is verified and the correct amount of pressure is achieved, the removal process can begin.

3.       Remove unsalvageable materials

Porous materials and items that cannot be restored or cleaned effectively must be carefully discarded. Unsalvageable items include, but are not limited to, drywall, insulation and other items with visible mold growth.

It is important for the specialist to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), which may include a full face respirator equipped with a P100/OV cartridge, disposable coveralls and nitrile gloves.

4.       Clean surfaces with a high attention to detail

A mold-remediation specialist will likely begin the cleaning process by thoroughly vacuuming the contaminated areas using a HEPA vacuum with a high efficiency filter to catch mold spores. He or she will then begin a detailed cleaning process involving mold removal tools such as a HEPA-filtered sander followed by the damp wiping of surfaces with an effective cleaning solution.

5.       Verify remediation

Once cleaning is complete, the IEP will return to verify the remediation was successful. The area must be returned to the dry standard and should be visually dust free with no malodors.

In addition, an IEP may perform surface or air sampling as part of the verification that the area is back to normal fungal ecology (Condition 1).

“Mold remediation requires mold removal specialists to perform techniques that promote source removal rather than relying on chemicals, paints and coatings as a replacement,” said Rachel Adams, President of Indoor Environmental Management Inc. “Understanding and managing air flow is also critical to the success of a mold remediation project. Working with qualified IEP can also help to reduce the liability for the technician as well as provide a final determination if the remediation was successful.”

Source: http://www.IICRC.org

Getting Started with the Emergency READY Program

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

Emergency READY Program SERVPRO

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest 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. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be. 

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. 

Getting Started with the Emergency READY Program

• STEP 1: Visit SERVPRO.com/ready. Register for an account using your email address as your username and choose a password.
• STEP 2: Choose your preferred SERVPRO Franchise Representative to contact in the event your home or business experiences water, fire, mold or other type of damage.
• STEP 3: Begin creating ERPs for all of your properties.
• STEP 4: Download the SERVPRO Ready Plan Application on your iPhone, tablet, Android or Blackberry device from the respective App Store.
• STEP 5: Launch the Ready Plan App and sign in using the same username and password from STEP 1.

At this point, it may take a few minutes for the data to sync. All of your ERP information will appear on your tablet or mobile device. You can now access and manage ERP information from your computer, tablet or smartphone.

Ask your SERVPRO of Franklin County representative about our Emergency Ready Profiles!

Water Damage in Washington, MO

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration Washington, MO SERVPRO

Nobody wants to come home and find their house soaked with water. But unfortunately for Derrick Sullivan, that’s exactly the situation he walked into.

Sullivan’s home in Washington, MO was one of many that experienced a water loss this year due to burst pipes. Sullivan came home around 6 p.m. one night, and found his living room, dining room and kitchen soaked.

“I was in a panic,” Sullivan said. “We had a lake in our house. I had my son with me that night. I put him upstairs, I shut off the water and tried to get everything together.”

Sullivan quickly called his insurance company, and SERVPRO of Franklin County was dispatched to the scene. Sullivan was one of many jobs SERVPRO of Franklin County received that day, but it was still able to respond quickly.

SERVPRO of Franklin County extracted the water and dried the structure, as multiple levels were affected. SERVPRO of Franklin County also removed the baseboards and the flooring underlayment. The house took about five days to get completely dried.

“I would have never thought that it would be done that quick,” Sullivan said.

After getting the house dried, SERVPRO of Franklin County began reconstruction. They also handled all the reconstruction except for flooring, including painting and installing new cabinets.

Sullivan was pleased with how quickly SERVPRO of Franklin County worked.

“I was very excited about the process,” he said. “It was very fast, that's the key. It was great working with you guys. I was a complete stranger and I had no problems trusting you guys.”

Sullivan said he would tell others to use SERVPRO if they had a water loss.

“I would definitely recommend you guys,” he said. “You guys were there on time, you worked fast. I couldn't have been happier.”

SERVPRO of Franklin County is located in Union, MO and serves the entire Franklin County, Missouri area. As leaders in the water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience.

Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

April showers bring May flowers…….and allergies!

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Spring Cleaning Franklin County, MO

A good way to lessen those horrible spring allergies is to do a little spring cleaning.  There is a lot of helpful cleaning that you can do on your own. A little extra vacuuming goes a long way.  Don’t forget to get into all those hard to reach nooks and crannies. Wipe down those window sills and baseboards and door trim. All of those places that love to collect dust and usually escape routine cleaning. Get those windows and window treatments clean, they love to gather dust. Finally, strip those beds and clean the sheets, comforters and give the mattress a good vacuuming.  All of these things that you can do yourself will greatly help you with your allergies. 

Now for the next step, you’re going to need to call in the professionals with the green trucks.  Air duct cleaning is going to substantially help your indoor air quality, removing dust, debris and mold. These are all things that trigger your allergies.  When we clean duct work we clean both sides of the system, which are the supplies and the cold air returns. In addition, we clean the furnace including the A coil and the squirrel cage.  The process is simple but takes some time.  We set up the vacuum unit outside and connect just above the furnace.  We run plastic “whips” with compressed air down each of the supply and cold air returns, pushing the debris to the vacuum hose and then out to the vacuum bag. At the end of the whips we use attachments based on what is required. These attachments can be brushes or other agitation tools that get all of the built up dust and debris loose so it can be vacuumed out.  Lastly, we HEPPA Vacuum the furnace, A coil and squirrel cage, removing the build up dust.  The result is a much cleaner system and much cleaner inside air.  You will automatically notice the difference in air quality and dust build up after we are complete.  Sometimes there’s an added bonus where we find your lost ring or that beloved child’s toy that mysteriously went missing. 

The next thing you will want to have done is cleaning of your carpets and upholstery. So much dirt, debris, pollen and mold can lie lurking in these textiles.   A good HEPA Vacuuming and a deep cleaning is the best way to combat those allergies.  Our most common method of carpet and upholstery cleaning is the Hot Water Extraction method.  First we HEPA Vacuum, than we address any spots, we than treat all of the surfaces with an emulsifier and lastly extract with hot water and a neutralizer. You won’t believe your eyes how good everything looks and, more importantly, your nose will thank you.  Good bye built up allergens!

If you haven’t cleaned your carpets or upholstery in a while, don’t worry.  The hot water extraction method works really well, or we have other deeper cleaning methods.  One way or another we can handle what you send our way. 

Still have some household odors?  Don’t worry, we have several different services that will work for you depending on the source of the odor.  For smoke odors, the Hydroxyl generator or Ozone works well. 

The Hydroxyl generator is a little more people friendly. It’s breathable, so people and pets can co-mingle while the Hydroxyl generator is in operation. The Hydroxyl generator works best for odors such as smoke, bio hazards, skunk, pet and VOCs.  In short, the Hydroxyl generator uses three bands of UV light to cleanse the air.  We have found them very effective. 

Ozone is not breathable and therefore much more limited.  It is very effective for the same types of odors, but just remember people or pets cannot be present.  In general the Ozone machine converts O2 to O3. O3 is well known for its disinfecting and deodorizing properties.

Lastly, we can thermal fog a room or area.  Both of these methods apply odor counteractive used to neutralize odors in the air. They do a great job for relatively minor to moderate odors and there are a number of counteractives we can use depending on the odor source. 

Performing any or all of these tips will go a long way in combating your seasonal allergies. And best of all, your friends in the green trucks have pricing specials available for you.  All you have to do is ask. 

Until later. Stay Green.

Jerry

Why Commercial Carpet Cleaning Is Essential For Floors

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Carpet Cleaning Washington, MO

But how much goes into proper commercial carpet cleaning? It starts with keeping soil and debris from entering the building to begin with. By placing entry mats in entrance and high traffic areas and maintaining the walking surfaces outside of the building, there will be less soil to deal with inside the building. Inside, frequent vacuuming is the first line of defense, and may be needed daily in areas that receive a lot of traffic. Vacuuming ensures deposited soil does not penetrate the deeply into the fibers and cause damage.

Spot and stain control is essential, even if the flooring is colored in a way to make stain detection difficult. Stains will degrade the integrity of the flooring and alter its texture, so professionals will have to respond quickly to any problem areas. Formulated detergents and targeted agitation will normally do the trick. Finally, deep treatment, usually through hot water extraction or encapsulation methods, will need to be done several times a year to remove soils that have become embedded in the carpeting’s fibers.

We know as a business owner, you don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your business. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Franklin County for prompt service. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have Questions? Call Today – (636) 583-5200

Source: http://www.IICRC.org/

Why A Professional Should Clean Fire Damage

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Franklin County, MO

While fire is always the immediate danger, once it is gone, what it leaves behind will continue to affect the house. Ash and smoke, if left unhindered, will cause extensive corrosion, etching and discoloration, not to mention lingering powerful odors. Professionals that clean fire and smoke damage can stop this before it becomes a major problem, assuming they are contacted soon enough.
Professionals can clean smoke damage and restore items affected by a fire, but they must be brought to the site as soon as possible to halt the ongoing issues that ash residue can cause. The first thing that ash does to the home is discolor most surfaces. Anything that is made of plastic or was close to the fire will start discoloring within minutes, and within several hours, fiberglass and finishes on appliances will begin to yellow. Metals may also tarnish. After a few days’ pass, the ash will cause walls to discolor permanently, along with clothing and upholstery. Wood and vinyl will need to be refinished or replaced, and metal will start corroding.
If a professional isn’t hired to clean smoke and fire damage, the costs for restoration will skyrocket after a few weeks. Metals may need to be replaced, carpet will permanently discolor and glass may be severely etched, which will necessitate replacement. It will also become apparent that the odors caused by the disaster may still be present and intense enough to be distracting. Because ash is acidic, the longer it takes to hire experts, the more destruction it will cause.
This entire process is very detailed, and hiring a professional that can be trusted to do the job right is imperative.

SERVPRO of Franklin County 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. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1.        Emergency Contact

2.        Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

3.        Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)

4.        Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

5.        Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

6.        Cleaning and Repair

7.        Restoration

SERVPRO of Franklin County has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. Once the fire department leaves, your Union home may suffer from water damage caused by firefighting efforts. We have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

April showers bring you May flowers

4/30/2018 (Permalink)

Be prepared. You never know when disaster may strike. We offer Fire and Water Damage Restoration 24/7

Hopefully the April showers brought your May flowers!

May is a very busy month as school is coming to an end and summer is just around the corner. The same is true for preparedness planning in May.

The following preparedness events take place this month and offer a great chance to educate yourself:

• Wildfire Community Preparedness Day (May 5, 2018)
• National Hurricane Preparedness Week (May 6-12, 2018)
• National Dam Safety Awareness Day (May 31, 2018)
• National Building Safety Month

May also brings two weeks to show appreciation for first responders:

• National Police Week  (May 13-19, 2018
• National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week  (May 20-26, 2018)

Be sure to visit ready.gov for more information and resources.

We at SERVPRO of Franklin County want you to be as prepared as possible since you never know when disaster may strike.

In the event of a fire or water emergency in your home, business, or property, make SERVPRO® your first call to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Improve Your Air Quality

4/30/2018 (Permalink)

Improve your air quality; Air Duct Cleaning; Franklin County, MO

Duct Cleaning Can Help!

The ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, but you can help change that!

Inspecting the ductwork in your facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout  your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO of Franklin County's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary.  SERVPRO of Franklin County will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke, or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process.

In these cases, SERVPRO of Franklin County can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

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

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

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

For more information on duct cleaning or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County today. (636) 583-5200

May is National Building Safety Month

4/30/2018 (Permalink)

Building Safety Month

Building Safety Month— in its 38th year—is an initiative of the International Code Council (ICC) and their 64,000 members across the world, as well as their partners in building construction and design and the safety community. Building Safety Month is an opportunity to educate insurance and commercial property professionals, as well as the general public, on “what it takes to create safe, resilient, affordable, and energy efficient homes and buildings,” according to the ICC website.

The theme for 2018 is Building Codes Save Lives with a focus on safer communities over the five weeks in May.

One of the topics highlighted during the third week of the month is Protecting Communities from Disasters.

The general public may not be aware how codes and code officials “improve and protect the places where we live, learn, work, worship, and play,” and this month can certainly improve that awareness and educate communities on this topic!

IMPORTANT TIPS FROM THE ICC

Disaster Safety & Mitigation

• If you live in a high wind or hurricane-prone area and do not have tested and code-approved shutters for protection from windborne debris, consider temporarily protecting your doors and windows by mounting exterior grade, 7/16" minimum thickness plywood and fastening it into place. Visit www.flash.org for detailed instructions on how to use plywood for emergency board-up.
• Consider building or retrofitting to create a tornado-safe room in your home. Follow ICC/ NSSA 500 Standard for detailed construction information and to ensure you achieve the highest level of protection for your family.
• In wildfire prone areas, remove fine (dead grass, leaves, etc.) and coarse (dead twigs, branches, etc.) fuels within 30 feet of a building to create a survivable space in case of wildfire. Be sure to remove dry leaf and pine litter from roofs, rain gutters, decks, and walkways. Follow ICC’s International Wildland-Urban Interface Code® for detailed requirements.
• Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by floodwaters. Never drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet and two feet of water to move an SUV-sized vehicle.
• Source: iccsafe.org

What is "Dry Ice Blasting"?

4/10/2018 (Permalink)

Dry Ice Blasting Fire Restoration - Union, MO

What Is Dry Ice Blasting?

Dry ice blasting is a revolutionary blasting method that uses dry ice pellets (CO2 in solid form) as the blasting material. The process is very environmentally friendly and provides a fast and effective alternative to traditional methods of cleaning industrial production equipment.

Dry Ice Blasting has become the preferred method to remove smoke soot, vaporized synthetic resins and char. Advanced Indoor Air Quality Care uses C02 dry ice blasting can reduce or eliminate the musty burnt smell that results from fire, smoke and water damage.

Dry Ice Blasting Is A Three-Step Process

Kinetic: When dry ice pellets are accelerated in a jet of compressed air and strike a surface at the speed of sound, they crack and loosen the coating of the surface being treated.

Thermal: The low temperature of dry ice pellets (-79oC/-110oF) makes the coating brittle, cracks it and loosens it. This allows dry ice to permeate the coating.

Sublimation: Dry ice penetrates the coating and immediately sublimes (passes directly from solid to vapor state). This results in a 700-fold increase in volume, an explosive effect that lifts the coating off the surface.

The Benefits Of Dry Ice Blasting

A Dry Cleaning Process: Dry ice blasting is a completely dry process because dry ice pellets consist of CO2 and vaporize immediately on contact with the surface to be cleaned.

No Waste Disposal: The system produces no waste products. Only the coating that has been removed remains to be disposed of, and this can usually be swept or vacuumed from the floor.

Environmentally Friendly: Dry ice blasting is completely non-toxic and no hazardous chemicals are used. Costs connected with the disposal of blasting materials and solvents are saved.

No Abrasion: Dry ice blasting is non-abrasive and therefore surfaces are treated very gently. Wear and tear resulting from the use of steel brushes, scrapers and other blasting materials is avoided.

Improved Production Quality: Dry ice blasting often allows for your production equipment to be cleaned while in operation without a need for dismantling or costly downtime.

Call SERVPRO of Franklin County for Dry Ice Blasting.

SERVPRO of Franklin County is locally owned and operated and we are proud to be part of this community. Fire damage can be devastating. You need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat your property with great care.

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. When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Does your Union, MO home have water damage?

4/10/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage, Flood Damage, Sewage Backups - Union, MO - Water Restoration - Commercial and Residential

Whether a storm passes or the upstairs toilet overflows, your home may suffer water damage that is difficult to repair. There are many things you can do to begin repairing any destruction, but a professional will likely be needed to get rid of any serious health or structural threats.

Floods can carry pathogens and water damage left alone long enough may become a breeding ground for mold. 

Sewage backups should be considered very dangerous. The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness. Special training and equipment is necessary to safely clean this type of contamination.

The main reason why a building is sensitive to water damage is because moisture can be difficult to detect. Standing liquids can encourage microbial growth within 24 hours and can saturate all kinds of textiles and seep through drywall.

Moisture may collect behind the walls, where mold and bacteria may multiply out of sight. Reacting quickly enough, clothes and furniture may be saved. However, there can be electrical and other hazards when entering a building that has recently been flooded. 

SERVPRO of Franklin County can quickly identify what items in the home are compromised by water damage.

Normally, anything that is porous may need to be discarded if it has come in contact with contaminated fluids. (For example, black water losses like sewage backups or flood damage.) These porous items, like mattresses, box springs, pillows and particle board, trap more moisture than other materials and foster the growth of microbes. 

Our technicians can locate hidden pockets of moisture using specialized equipment. There are some materials that may not feel wet on the outside.   

When these moisture pockets are found, our technicians will expose them to air by removing any drywall or other materials in the way. Our technicians will monitor and document the drying process to ensure your property is back to normal.

Read more about the typical restoration process.

Our highly trained technicians are ready to respond immediately to flood or water damage at your Union, MO or Franklin County, MO property.  We also offer Commercial Services to our local businesses. 

Please follow our tips outlined in the Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide to protect yourself and your property.

Do You Have Water or Flood Damage? Give us a call for a free estimate – (636) 583-5200

April Showers bring May flowers

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

Spring Cleaning Union, MO

April showers bring May flowers, and also a good chance to get in some spring cleaning! Spring is a great time to sweep those winter blues away and freshen up your environment.

SERVPRO® of Franklin County can help. In addition to air duct and HVAC cleaning, SERVPRO® is trained to use state-of-the-art equipment to remove soils hiding deep within your carpet, as well as focused stain removal.

Other services to help with your spring cleaning include upholstery and drapery cleaning, hard floor cleaning and care, and deodorization. A clean environment is a healthy environment. 

Improve your living and work spaces this spring. If you need a little help, don’t worry! Your local SERVPRO® has all the tools to make your home or business sparkle in no time!

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

HOARDING: A Serious Situation

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

Hoarding in Franklin County, MO

According to The Mayo Clinic, “Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of the items. Excessive accumulation of items, regardless of actual value, occurs.” Many people with hoarding disorder do not find their habits to be a problem.

Hoarded items are often things others would throw away or look at as junk or garbage such as old newspapers, junk mail or packaging. Hoarding can lead to homes filled with extreme clutter to full capacity from years of accumulation, making living conditions unsanitary and crowded.

Bugs, fleas, rats and other vermin may be present, at which point an exterminator would need to be called. At times, hoarding may spread to outside the home as well, to storage facilities, or even the garage or yard.

SERVPRO® of Franklin County encounter hoarding situations several different ways. Often,
SERVPRO® is called for a fire or water loss and find the hoarding situation when they arrive on-site. The SERVPRO® Professional will communicate with the insurance company regarding their contents coverage, and after approval, contents can be packed out and possibly cleaned, dried, and stored by SERVPRO®, or relocated to a storage facility so work on the fire or water loss can begin.

Another way SERVPRO® can encounter hoarding jobs is through calls from landlords, case workers, real estate agents, or family members, often after the death of a loved one. In these situations, the crew will see if they should look for any items of importance while they clean the job. Sometimes, family members will come and try to help the hoarder sort through their contents as well.

Each case is very different, and hoarding jobs are often sensitive situations, but SERVPRO® of Franklin County is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you encounter a hoarding situation, call SERVPRO® of Franklin County today. (636) 583-5200

A Salute to FIRST RESPONDERS

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” This famous Mr. Rogers quote comes to mind when we celebrate first responders: those who arrive first on the scene of any disaster or emergency. In the event of a disaster or emergency, there are many different agencies and people in your community who are ready to respond. Whether it’s a house fire or a hurricane, we are thankful every day for these first responders.

Firefighters, EMTs, and Police

Local fire and police departments, as well as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), are often first on the scene of an emergency. In the U.S., there are more than 29,700 fire departments with 1,160,450 total firefighters, according to the National Fire Protection Association’s 2015 U.S. Fire Department Profile. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are almost 245,000 EMTs and paramedics in the U.S. In the U.S. there are about 18,000 federal, state, county, and local law enforcement agencies, employing more than 750,000 fulltime sworn officers, according to
the Uniformed Crime Reporting Program collected by the FBI.

Military

When events such as natural disasters strike, different branches of the military are often a first line of response. The Army National Guard and Air National Guard, with over 342,000 soldiers, respond domestically when deployed by their state Governor, often during states of emergency from weather-related events. They can also be called upon during terrorist attacks or civil unrest, or called overseas by the President of the United States. Active duty soldiers can also be called upon for certain domestic events as well.

FEMA Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

As a part of FEMA’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), these volunteers are trained to be prepared for any disasters that may affect your local area in an effort to support professional responders. CERT volunteers are trained in “basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations,” according to FEMA. With more than 2,700 CERT programs, over 600,000 individuals have been trained nationwide. Teams are managed locally, but supported nationally by FEMA.

SERVPRO® recognizes these and the countless other first responders in our communities for keeping our communities safe.

Benefits of Duct Cleaning this Spring

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

Benefits of Duct Cleaning

Spring is often the most anticipated time of the year. It signals that the long winter is finally over. Flowers are popping up everywhere, grass needs to be cut and the pollen is in the air. To a lot of us spring also means the onset of allergies and the dreaded spring cleaning.

You’re on your own with the grass cutting but we can help you with your allergies and spring cleaning. Consider having SERVPRO of Franklin County clean your air ducts. Some of the benefits of having clean air ducts may surprise you.

1) Improve air quality. When your heating and cooling system is running, airborne contaminants are being drawn into your duct system. Over a period of time, these harmful contaminants will eventually build up inside your air ducts. Indoor contaminants may include: dust mites, tobacco smoke, household mold, chemicals, airborne allergens, bacteria, animal dander and carbon monoxide. These contaminants are then circulated throughout your home or office and effect the health and comfort of you, your family, or your employees.

2) Reduce Dusting. Source removal duct cleaning can help to reduce household dust by removing the dust where it travels most - through your air duct system

3) Save Energy and Money. According to the EPA, a buildup of only .042 inches of dirt on a heating coil can result in a decrease of efficiency of 21%. A clean air conveyance system may help to increase efficiency and therefore may help to reduce heating and cooling costs.

4) Extend Life of Equipment. 9 out of 10 system failures are caused by dirt and dust. One of the functions of the fan, located inside of your air handler, is to keep the heat exchanger cool. Accumulated dirt and debris can reduce the CFM (cubic feet of air per minute) as much as 50%. This is the most common cause of cracks in heat exchangers. By having your system cleaned, you may prevent pre-mature breakdown & aging of your heating and cooling system.

Air duct cleaning for an average size home usually takes 4-6 hours. Our two man crew will set up the equipment outside. The only equipment you will have inside your home is an 8” vacuum hose and a small compressor hose. The vacuum hose is attached at your cold air and supply trunk line just before the furnace. The compressor hose is attached to long flexible whips with various scrubbing attachments. The whips are placed in each register and cold air return of your home and snaked all of the way back to the vacuum hose which carries out all of the debris.

Schedule one of our uniformed and highly trained crews today. We can provide you before and after pictures and you will be amazed with all of the debris that we find in the vacuum bag. Of course there is lots of dirt and dust, but we often find the occasional toy, saw dust, and once even a valuable piece of jewelry, which was of course handed over to its owner.

As always please call SERVPRO of Franklin County for all your clean up and restoration needs. We will make it, “Like it never even happened.” ... Jerry Alvey

Fast Response to Flooded Basements in Franklin County, MO

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Franklin County, MO Basement

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 Union, MO 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 - 636-583-5200

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 Franklin County 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 24/7
• 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

Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Be READY: Storms

3/8/2018 (Permalink)

Storm damage, Franklin County MO

Severe weather can happen anytime, in any part of the country. Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms associated with freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds.

Know your risk:
Tornadoes
Floods
Thunderstorms & Lightning

Develop an emergency plan based on your local weather hazards and practice your plan.

• Make a family emergency plan
• Be informed about emergency alerts

What can you do when your Franklin County, MO home suffers water damage?  Click Here to visit our blog post covering water damage.

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm, know who to call to quickly get help.

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial.  You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job.

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition. SERVPRO of Franklin County can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

SERVPRO of Franklin County is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here too, and are proud to be part of the Union community. We are also part of a national network of 1,650 with special Disaster Recover Teams that can respond with additional resources during catastrophic storms and major events.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (636) 583-5200

Water Damage In Your Franklin County, MO Home?

3/8/2018 (Permalink)

A water damage restoration service is the kind of professional that no one wants to call, but when they are needed, it is important not to delay. Homeowners know that moisture is often the enemy, capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem. No matter how moisture gets into the building, the response should be the same. Bring in a certified firm as soon as possible to clean the home, dry it, and ensure there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, don’t try to handle it on your own. Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill. A certified water damage restoration service not only has the tools to eliminate the moisture, they have the protective equipment to remain free from harm.

Restoration technicians have a lot of technology at their disposal. These include powerful vacuums and pumping systems, high volume air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and a number of detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats. While the technicians work on the building, disposing of compromised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live, and a business safe to work in; any other cleaning method is a dangerous gamble.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

We are water damage restoration specialists and are ready to restore your Union home back to pre-water damage condition. We quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment. SERVPRO of Franklin County uses moisture monitoring equipment to effectively measure and document the drying process to ensure your property is dry.

Please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Biohazard, Crime Scene, and Vandalism Cleanup

3/8/2018 (Permalink)

Biohazard, Crime Scene, and Vandalism Cleanup Franklin County, MO

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

SERVPRO of Franklin County is trained to safely and effectively remove bio hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO of Franklin County can help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices. SERVPRO of Franklin County can help with the following issues:

• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson
• Vandalism
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS

We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime, or death. Trained SERVPRO® Technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.

METHAMPHETAMINE LABS

Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs, such as methamphetamine, are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. SERVPRO® follows federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

CRIME SCENE RESIDUES

From fingerprint powder and evidence gathering chemicals to tear gas and  pepper spray residues, SERVPRO® can clean and restore your property and contents.

ARSON AND VANDALISM

SERVPRO® Professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. SERVPRO of Franklin County also provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism, etc.

Call SERVPRO of Franklin County today for more information. 

Does your Franklin County, MO home or business have dirty ducts?

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

Duct cleaning for your Union, MO home or business

Did you know your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality?

Inspecting the ductwork in your Franklin County, MO facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO of Franklin County's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO® of Franklin County will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork. In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke, or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, we can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

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

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

The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.

Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.

Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.

As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.

Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact your local SERVPRO® of Franklin County today. 

Destroy Odors with DEODORIZATION

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

Deodorization for your Franklin County, MO home or business

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized.

Fire, smoke and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems. As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors.

With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO® of Franklin County provide specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage.

SERVPRO® of Franklin County does not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. Once the source is found, SERVPRO’s own proprietary line of cleaning products is used to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more.

Ask your us to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

If you suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County. Whether it’s fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we’ll help make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

Be READY with help from SERVPRO

The teams at SERVPRO® are ready for any disaster, big or small.

And they understand what may be small in the grand scheme of things may be huge to you, and they’re ready to help you put your life, business, or property back together “Like it never even happened.”

What can you do to be READY? Be prepared at your home or business with an Emergency Kit. Ready.gov suggests you have enough supplies to last for at least three days. Below are some suggested items to include in your kit:

• 3-day supply of nonperishable foods Water (one+ gallon per person per day)
• First-aid kit
• Prescription medication
• Sleeping bag or blankets
• Fire extinguisher
• Hygiene products
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries
• Cell phone charger
• Change of clothes
• Matches in waterproof container
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Whistle to signal for help
• Pet supplies
• Infant formula and diapers
• Important documents such as insurance policies, IDs, and bank records in a plastic container

You can also keep a condensed emergency kit in your vehicle as well.

For a more extensive list, check out Ready.gov.

Whatever the disaster, SERVPRO® of Franklin County is there when you need help, 24/7/365.

Local Restaurant General Cleaning

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Cleaning Services - Franklin County, MO

The owner was appreciative and said that his restaurant team said nothing but good things about the SERVPRO of Franklin County crew. He is also making an appointment to have an SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile done for all of his restaurants. Learn more about the READY profile here: https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/readyprogram

This is just one of the many commercial services SERVPRO of Franklin County offers. It is also an example of how willing we are to work around your business’ busy schedule.

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

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

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

Have Questions? Call Today – (636) 583-5200

6 Steps To Follow After Fire Damage

2/16/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Repair and Restoration Steps for Union, MO Washington, MO Sullivan, MO Pacific, MO Franklin County, MO

Safety is a primary concern when dealing with fire damage. Returning to normal may seem impossible, but thankfully it isn’t. After calling the fire department, home and business owners should be aware that the building may be dangerous. Entering the building should be avoided since the environment could be toxic. No one should enter the house or office until the emergency responders approve that it is safe. Roofs and floors could be unsafe and could possibly cave in without notice. Smoke, soot and water are problems that need to be dealt with as soon as possible. Home and business owners should take the following steps following a fire:

• Contact local disaster relief. In some cases, relatives will open their home for their families or friends in an emergency. If that is not an option, local services can help families find shelter, food and medication
• Contact the insurance company. The insurance company can help home and business owners understand what they must do in order to file a claim and receive compensation.
• Utilities should not be turned on if the emergency responders have shut them off.  They could be extremely hazardous and should only be used if a professional says it is safe.
• Call the landlord or mortgage company and inform them about the situation
• Call the police and inform them that the office or home will be vacant until the building is restored.
• Receipts should be saved to provide information to the insurance company and to claim losses on income tax forms.

After the fire trucks are gone, your home or business likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also extensive water damage from firefighting efforts.