Recent Cleaning Posts
Green Clean: The Benefits of Professional Carpet Cleaning Without Harmful Chemicals
10/23/2023 (Permalink)
Carpets are not just decorative elements but also vital in maintaining a healthy indoor environment. However, carpets can become a haven for dust, allergens, and other pollutants over time, so it's essential to have them professionally cleaned.
However, not all carpet cleaning methods are created equal. Here's why it's crucial to choose a professional carpet cleaning company with expert technicians, specialized equipment, and a commitment to chemical-free solutions:
1. Expert Technicians:
Professional carpet cleaning requires knowledge and expertise. Expert technicians are trained to assess the specific needs of your carpets, such as their material and the type of stains or dirt present. They can customize the cleaning process to suit your requirements, ensuring the best possible results.
2. Specialized Equipment:
Professional carpet cleaning companies invest in state-of-the-art equipment that homeowners typically don't have access to. These machines use powerful hot water extraction or steam cleaning methods, which can penetrate deep into the carpet fibers, effectively extracting dirt, allergens, and contaminants.
3. Healtheir Indoor Air Quality:
Cleaning carpets without harmful chemicals contributes to a healthier indoor environment. Many traditional cleaning solutions contain harsh chemicals that can linger in the air, potentially causing respiratory problems or irritation. Chemical-free cleaning minimizes these risks.
4. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable:
Using green, chemical-free solutions is safer for your health and better for the environment. Many professional carpet cleaning companies offer eco-friendly and biodegradable cleaning agents, reducing the impact on the planet.
5. Prolongs Carpet Life:
Regular professional cleaning can significantly extend the lifespan of your carpets. Removing dirt and debris prevents premature wear and tear, keeping your carpets looking newer for longer.
6. Effective Stain Removal:
Expert technicians can effectively tackle tough stains and spots. Their experience and specialized equipment ensure that even deep-seated stains can often be removed entirely, reviving the appearance of your carpets.
7. Convenience and Time Savings:
Hiring professionals to clean your carpets saves you time and effort. You don't need to worry about renting or operating heavy equipment or dealing with DIY carpet cleaning.
8. Allergen Reduction:
Chemical-free cleaning, combined with the deep-cleaning capabilities of professional equipment, effectively reduces allergens, dust mites, and pet dander in your carpets, relieving allergy sufferers.
In conclusion, opting for professional carpet cleaning without harmful chemical solutions is a win-win. You get cleaner, healthier carpets, improved indoor air quality, and a safer environment for your family or employees.
The expertise, equipment, and commitment to green cleaning make professional carpet cleaning a wise investment for the present and the future.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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:
Need Carpet or Upholstery Cleaning?
Call Today – (636) 583-5200
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!
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:
- Wipe visible food and splatters out of the microwave.
- Bring 1-cup water and 3 tablespoons white vinegar to boil in the microwave.
- Turn off the microwave and leave the door closed for 10 minutes to let the steam cover all interior surfaces.
- Wipe the inside of the microwave with a damp, clean cloth.
- 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.
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.
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!
April showers bring May flowers…….and allergies!
5/2/2019 (Permalink)
Spring Cleaning your Union, MO home or business
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
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.
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 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.
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!
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Using Cheap Carpet Cleaning Services Could Cause More Damage
10/3/2017 (Permalink)
Union, MO Carpet Cleaning
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
Renting Home Carpet Cleaners Could Cause More Issues
9/19/2017 (Permalink)
Carpet Cleaning, Franklin County, MO
Although it may seem like a smart alternative, do-it-yourself home carpet cleaners can’t 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 possible for an untrained person to actually damage the carpet further if they are not careful, and also the process can be physically strenuous and stressful.
Home carpet cleaners are not as powerful, and this does not mean that the DIY varieties are safe to use. A person may not know to select the right detergent for their carpet fibers, leading to discoloration... or worse. An untrained person may leave too much detergent behind, or not extract enough water, and this can possibly provide the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold to grow.
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
Finding Affordable Carpet Cleaning in Union, MO
7/25/2017 (Permalink)
Carpet Cleaning Union, MO
It’s completely possible to get affordable carpet cleaning that is also highly effective, a homeowner just needs to know where to look. To some extent, a homeowner will get what they pay for, but certified crews, and particularly 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.
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
How Do Professionals Use A Carpet Extractor?
5/5/2017 (Permalink)
Carpet Cleaning Extraction
To extend the life of carpeting and keep it smelling fresh and looking brand new, professional cleaning services will often use a carpet extractor. But many wonder just how this method works. A cleaning solution is injected into the fibers via a wand. The solution then adheres to the dirt and soil, and the use of pressure and suction brings the soil to the surface. The machine then extracts the remaining water, solution and dirt. Professionals use a carpet extractor in conjunction with other methods for the most effective results.
Dry extraction is a method in which a dry solution is used on the affected areas. The solution brings the dirt to the surface and then is removed through vacuuming.
Dry foam cleaning involves adding a foam detergent to the affected areas. The foam is worked into the carpet fibers and is then extracted, trapping the dirt in the foam.
Steam cleaning, also known as hot water cleaning, uses different rations of water and cleansing agents. Sometimes the carpet is preconditioned and then a cleaning wand applies the solution using high pressure to remove hard to reach dirt. The cleaning equipment then removes the water, solution mixture and the dirt.
Any of these methods can benefit professionals because they produce effective and high-quality results. Using cleaning equipment with proper techniques and cleansing agents can extend the life of the carpet.
Source: http://www.IICRC.org/blog/carpet-extractor-176.html
Why Use A Professional Carpet Cleaner?
4/6/2017 (Permalink)
Sometimes it can be handy to run up to the store and rent a carpet cleaner or even hire the guy who goes door to door soliciting work for cheap. But there are several factors you need to consider before using this method of cleaning of your carpets.
Most rental or portable units do not have enough suction or vacuum to adequately do the job. The worst possible thing to happen in carpet or upholstery cleaning is to over saturate and under extract. Rentals and portables are usually guilty of just that. They apply too much moisture and do not have enough suction to remove excess moisture. This leaves you with a very wet carpet, which in turn can turn into mold or mildew and will also leave the cleaning solution (soap) in the carpet. Leaving the cleaning solution in the carpet leads to early soiling because the solution attracts instead of repel soils.
Often time’s small carpet cleaning companies use portables or underpowered equipment and you end up with these types of problems. A professional carpet cleaning company will utilize truck mounted equipment which heat the water, allow an even flow of solution, allow the operator to control the amount of moisture and have the proper vacuum to extract excess moisture. Why doesn’t everyone offer truck-mounted services? The answer simply is the cost. Each unit costs in excess of $18,000. That is the machine itself not including the vehicle, chemicals and accessories. All together with truck mount and vehicle and accessories the overall cost exceeds $45,000. At SERVPRO of Franklin County we are fortunate enough to have two of these units
So what should you look for in a professional carpet cleaning company?
1) Ask if they pre-vacuum. Vacuuming removes 75% of loose dirt.
2) Make sure they use truck-mounted equipment.
3) Are they a certified company? We prefer the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). This insures workers are properly educated and trained and are up to date with the latest technology.
4) Do they have the knowledge and training to handle stains and problem areas? We use specialized cleaning products based on the type of stain such as enzymes for pet odor and urine odors, anti-microbial for mildew and biohazards.
5) Lastly, be sure employees have a neat appearance, they are uniformed, background checked and drug tested. After all, you are inviting these people into your home. You deserve to feel safe and secure.
If you have had to replace your flooring lately, you will agree it’s an expensive investment. Don’t trust your investment with just anyone. Trust the company that Insurance companies, homeowners and business owners trust with their fire, water and clean up needs. SERVPRO of Franklin County. We will make your dirty carpet, “Like it never even happened.”
Spring Cleaning
4/5/2017 (Permalink)
Spring Cleaning
Spring is in the air! 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.
We can assist you or your insured 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 offer the following cleaning services:
- Carpet Cleaning
- Upholstery and Drapery Cleaning
- Ceiling and Wall Cleaning
- Hard Floor Cleaning
Whatever your spring cleaning needs, SERVPRO of Franklin County has you covered. Call SERVPRO of Franklin county today to discuss or schedule your necessary spring cleaning services.
Need Cleaning Services?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200
Vent Cleaning
3/31/2017 (Permalink)
Dryer Vent Cleaning Franklin County, MO
Have you checked your dryer lately? No, it probably the same as the day you installed it. It’s right there where you saw it last, spinning and tumbling and drying your clothes, towels, coats and blankets, and even shoes. Your dryer is indispensable and most people wouldn’t want to live without one. However, there could also be a hidden danger lurking in your dryer. One that may have never crossed your mind: a dryer vent fire.
Did you know that dryer vent fires are actually rather common, especially this time of year when people use, and wash, much heavier clothing, sheets and coats a lot more often. All that extra lint build up can be a real threat to your home and safety. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission there are more than 15,000 dryer vent fires every year.
So how does it happen? Thanks to all that extra lint, your dryer vent gets clogged. When the lint clogs the vent the airflow to the dryer is inhibited, which prevents the dryer exhaust gases from getting outside. This creates a serious fire hazard. One of the most obvious signs to look for is clothing that isn’t drying all the way with just one cycle.
So, if you haven’t had your dryer vent cleaned in a while, or you’re not sure it’s ever been cleaned, then don’t wait any longer. Call SERVPRO of Franklin County to clean your vents and air ducts.
For more information on HVAC and air duct cleaning, call us today, (636) 583-520
Do You Have Dirty Ducts?
3/23/2017 (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 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. n 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.
Call the cleanup team that is faster to any size disaster
3/9/2017 (Permalink)
Spring Cleaning for your Franklin County, MO home
Spring is in the air! 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. SERVPRO® of Franklin County can assist you or your insured 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.
SERVPRO® of Franklin County also offers the following cleaning services:
Carpet Cleaning
Upholstery and Drapery Cleaning
Ceiling and Wall Cleaning
Hard Floor Cleaning
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."
Whatever your spring cleaning needs, SERVPRO® has you covered. Call SERVPRO of Franklin County today to discuss or schedule your necessary spring cleaning services.
Need Cleaning Services?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200
The Importance of Cleaning Dryer Vents
3/9/2017 (Permalink)
According to FEMA, failure to clean home dryers causes 34% of home dryer fires. Home dryer fires cause $35 million in property loss and can even cause injury or death. To reduce the risk of these fires happening in your or your insured’s home or business, SERVPRO® can help clean dryer vents and ducts that may have lint buildup. Other tips for keeping your dryer vents clean from the National Fire Protection Agency include cleaning the lint filter before and after each load, and making sure the outdoor vent flap will open and is not restricted by snow, a bird’s nest, or other potential obstacles. For more information on cleaning dryer vents contact SERVPRO of Franklin County.
Need Cleaning Services?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200
Get Started on Spring Cleaning
3/9/2017 (Permalink)
Residential and Commercial Cleaning
Have you started your spring cleaning yet?
SERVPRO of Franklin County has some great specials to help you get all your tasks done in no time.
From a whole home cleaning, to just your area rugs, with our affordable prices you can sit back and relax.
Some of our Cleaning Services include:
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
Why do we have the urge to clean every spring?
2/20/2017 (Permalink)
Spring is just around the corner and with spring comes the spring cleaning. It’s the time of year when people feel the need to take big cleaning projects, indoors and outdoors. But why? Is it because of the cold and general gloominess of the winter? Is it because we are constantly inside that we feel there is no point in thoroughly cleaning?
It could be because the general idea of spring cleaning (moving furniture, carpets, or even cleaning out the garage) is just rooted in the idea to get the house in order. In our past, our houses became more dirty in the winter. Before the furnace, the house was heated with a wood burning stove or fireplace. Getting the sooty mess out of the home every spring could be a ritual we keep today.
One of the things that most people look forward to with the warm weather is opening the windows and letting the fresh air in and the dust from the long winter out. It could be that with the fresh air we want a fresh home.
While the urge to clean is strong, it’s a good time to get your air ducts and carpet cleaned. A good rule of thumb would be to professionally clean your carpet every 12 months. Possibly sooner if you have children or pets. 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.
With carpet cleaning being recommended every year, the spring cleaning time is a good way remember to get your carpet cleaned regularly.
The amount of time between air duct cleanings can vary. Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating dust, pollen, odors, dirt and debris, or other contaminants. If you notice an excessive amount of dust in your home, it may be a good time to get your ductwork inspected.
SERVPRO of Franklin County can help with your spring cleaning. With a long list of cleaning services, we can help you get through the spring cleaning urge and with much less effort. With services from whole home cleanings, to simply just having your carpet cleaned. We will get the job done right. 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."
Call us today. (636) 583-5200.
Hiring Rug Cleaning Services Instead Of Attempting DIY
2/20/2017 (Permalink)
Choosing to hire certified rug cleaning services rather than opting to tackle a more DIY approach is the best option for any homeowner. While the process may seem as simple as a good vacuum and spot removal job, those alone will not help in prolonging the life of the rug. Many are instead leaving it up to a technician that has been highly educated and trained through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) will ensure the job is done properly. They have the latest tools and skills to carry out the job with the utmost care and detail.
An increasing number of homeowners are finding themselves with area rugs in one or more rooms of their living space. Typically, they take quite a bit of abuse due to the day-to-day wear and tear done by family, pets, and guests. That heavy foot traffic leaves dirt, dust, odors and stains behind. What started out as a useful, yet decorative piece in a room ends up looking worn, dingy, and full of bothersome allergens. Routine upkeep such as vacuuming and minor stain removal can be done, yet it is imperative to have the piece removed and professionally cleaned on a regular basis. The frequency of this process truly depends on the extent of use the piece has.
Technicians that are IICRC-certified have had the coursework and training necessary to provide superior rug cleaning services. From start to finish they will work tirelessly to restore the piece to its original, vibrant appearance. This attention to detail starts with an initial inspection to establish the type of material that will be dealt with, what debris and allergens are present, and if there is any damage to be addressed. At this time they will be able to give the homeowner an idea of the extent of treatment and time frame required. Typically the piece is removed from the home and brought to the business location, which is fully equipped to complete the job. While the do-it-yourself approach may seem doable to some, a true comprehensive treatment can only be done by those certified to perform these specialized rug cleaning services. It is important for homeowners to do a little investigating prior to choosing the firm to entrust with the job. Personal and online recommendations are a great starting point, as is the IICRC's own website. They provide a database of certified firms that are current on their training and continue to follow the industry standards.
For most, this type of floor covering was an investment in the home's warmth and overall decor. While it is there to be walked upon, it is also important to protect and maintain it regularly.
Why should you choose SERVPRO of Franklin County?
Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Certifications
- RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
- WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
- ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
- SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
- CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
- IICRC Certified Firm
- ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
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. 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.
Give us a call today for an estimate on cleaning your rugs. 636-583-5200
Source: http://www.iicrc.org/hiring-rug-cleaning-services-instead-attempting-diy-a-460.html
Post Construction Clean Up - Franklin County, MO
1/19/2017 (Permalink)
Post Construction Clean Up
Whether it’s your home or business, cleaning up after construction can be a lot of work.
Remember when you moved into your newly built home or business? The new faucets sparkled; the light fixtures gleamed; and the appliances shined. More than likely, a cleaning company had come in to ensure that the home was spotless and up to your standards.
When a construction company finishes building a new house or business, all of the beautiful materials and amenities are usually covered in dust, along with footprints on the brand new hardwood floors or tile. A lot of the time, the showers or baths will have dirt and dust from the installation process and aren’t even ready for you to use. The granite countertops that sparkle? They were thoroughly cleaned before you saw them after construction.
As a cleaning and restoration company, we come in and after everyone else has finished. We clean the home from top to bottom; we clean the carpet, floors, counter tops, anywhere that debris has accumulated down to the tiniest detail. We make the construction process “Like it never even happened.”
Post construction cleanup is just as important when it comes to your newly renovated or freshly built facility! When you spend a few hundred thousand dollars (or more!) on a new facility; you want it to look clean.
Post Construction cleaning is essential! It is also very detailed, different from the routine cleaning or maintenance you already have to take care of. As a restoration vender, we know how important your home or business is to you. Give us a call and see how we can make your construction mess “Like it never even happened”.
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. We are proud to be an active member of the Franklin County community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.
If you have questions or would like to schedule an estimate, please give us a call: 636-583-5200
Why Should You Use A Professional Carpet Cleaner?
1/12/2017 (Permalink)
Carpet Cleaning Union, MO
There is no comparison between professional carpet cleaners and the kind of equipment a do-it-yourselfer can rent at a hardware or grocery store. Homeowners who opt for rental equipment may believe they are making the pragmatic choice, but it will likely end up costing the homeowner more in the long run. Rental equipment cannot match professional equipment in any way, and it often causes more problems than it solves. Of course, do-it-yourselfers also deprive themselves of the expert technique that professionals have learned during their time in the field.
The major differences between rental equipment and professional carpet cleaners are precision and power. Technicians work with industrial vacuums that can be effective deep within the fibers, and professional hot water extractors use minimal water for the best results. Rental equipment is hit or miss at removing various soils, and it tends to leave behind too much water following the treatment. The result is flooring that gets soiled again almost immediately. It also means an extended drying time. Excess water can also attract pests or molds, both of which can cause health issues in people and pets.
Perhaps most importantly, though, without professional assistance, homeowners will not be able to get rid of tough odors, stubborn stains or physical damage to the carpeting. Certified technicians are prepared to help homeowners in any way possible to restore their flooring to its peak potential, something that rental equipment could never hope to accomplish. (Source: http://www.iicrc.org/blog/category/carpet-cleaning)
Preventative Maintenance
Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. All carpet manufacturers agree on actions you can take between carpet cleanings to increase the life span of your carpet.
IICRC states that 79% of soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet.
Preventative maintenance actions include:
- Regular vacuuming
- Spot removal
- Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
- Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
- Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet
Even the highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery. The SERVPRO System offers a number of cleaning options to match any type of upholstery or carpet.
Need Carpet or Upholstery Cleaning? Call Today – (636) 583-5200
Why Use a Professional Carpet Cleaner?
11/15/2016 (Permalink)
Sometimes it can be handy to run up to the store and rent a carpet cleaner or even hire the guy who goes door to door soliciting work for cheap. But there are several factors you need to consider before using this method of cleaning of your carpets.
Most rental or portable units do not have enough suction or vacuum to adequately do the job. The worst possible thing to happen in carpet or upholstery cleaning is to over saturate and under extract. Rentals and portables are usually guilty of just that. They apply too much moisture and do not have enough suction to remove excess moisture. This leaves you with a very wet carpet, which in turn can turn into mold or mildew and will also leave the cleaning solution (soap) in the carpet. Leaving the cleaning solution in the carpet leads to early soiling because the solution attracts instead of repel soils.
Often time’s small carpet cleaning companies use portables or underpowered equipment and you end up with these types of problems. A professional carpet cleaning company will utilize truck mounted equipment which heat the water, allow an even flow of solution, allow the operator to control the amount of moisture and have the proper vacuum to extract excess moisture. Why doesn’t everyone offer truck-mounted services? The answer simply is the cost. Each unit costs in excess of $18,000. That is the machine itself not including the vehicle, chemicals and accessories. All together with truck mount and vehicle and accessories the overall cost exceeds $45,000. At SERVPRO of Franklin County we are fortunate enough to have two of these units
So what should you look for in a professional carpet cleaning company?
1) Ask if they pre-vacuum. Vacuuming removes 75% of loose dirt.
2) Make sure they use truck-mounted equipment.
3) Are they a certified company? We prefer the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). This insures workers are properly educated and trained and are up to date with the latest technology.
4) Do they have the knowledge and training to handle stains and problem areas? We use specialized cleaning products based on the type of stain such as enzymes for pet odor and urine odors, anti-microbial for mildew and biohazards.
5) Lastly, be sure employees have a neat appearance, they are uniformed, background checked and drug tested. After all, you are inviting these people into your home. You deserve to feel safe and secure.
If you have had to replace your flooring lately, you will agree it’s an expensive investment. Don’t trust your investment with just anyone. Trust the company that Insurance companies, homeowners and business owners trust with their fire, water and clean up needs. SERVPRO of Franklin County. We will make your dirty carpet, “Like it never even happened”.
Tips for Prolonging the Beauty of Your Upholstery in your Franklin County, MO Property
10/5/2016 (Permalink)
Upholstery Cleaning for your Franklin County, MO Property
You just bought new furniture for your home or business, so how to you keep it looking fresh and new?
To keep your furniture clean, it’s necessary to conduct routine maintenance, including periodic cleaning by a cleantrust certified technician every one to two years. Furniture and fabric manufacturers recommend that consumers not wait until severe soiling occurs before cleaning because the greater the soiling, the less the likelihood of restoring the fabric's original color, appearance and texture, and the greater adverse effect on indoor environmental quality.
Regular cleaning by a trained, certified professional, like a technician from SERVPRO of Franklin County can help restore your upholstery's appearance, extend its life, and keeping it looking "like new."
Tips to help keep your furniture clean:
Control soil by using arm caps and rotating seat cushions frequently to prolong life and appearance of areas prone to wear and tear.
Remove dry soil by vacuuming and, depending on the fabric, brushing to remove dust and soil particles.
Increased cleaning may be required when fabric is subjected to heavy use, or when it is located in homes occupied with persons with allergies or respiratory sensitivity.
When it is time to have your furniture cleaned, you want a company that is well trained and will take special care of your property. Even the highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery. The SERVPRO System offers a number of cleaning options to match any type of upholstery or carpet.
Need Carpet or Upholstery Cleaning?
Call Today – (636) 583-5200
Finding Affordable Carpet Cleaning in Union, MO
10/4/2016 (Permalink)
Affordable Carpet Cleaning in Union, MO
It’s completely possible to get affordable carpet cleaning that is also highly effective, a homeowner just needs to know where to look. To some extent, a homeowner will get what they pay for, but certified crews, and particularly 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.
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
Locate Carpet Cleaning Service in Franklin County, MO
8/18/2016 (Permalink)
Carpet Cleaning Services
When a homeowner needs maintenance done on their carpet, it is important to do your research.
Without experience in the industry, homeowners will have to take professionals at their word when discussing the effectiveness of their treatment methods. Because of this, a homeowner should only rely on reputable technicians, like those certified through the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). IICRC certified firms are held to a high standard of ethics and use industry best practices when performing treatment. Their reputation is more important than securing a single job.
If a homeowner opts for something other than the best carpet cleaning service possible, they may be left with floors in even worse condition.
Careless technicians make a common mistake by using too much water, and this can leave the floors damp and using excessive cleaning products can make carpet ready to attract more soil. Excess water also fosters microbial growth and can make the floors unsafe to be around, a particular threat to pets and young children. Poorly trained technicians may also leave soil behind, or neglect to do anything but remove loose soil, something that anyone with a vacuum can do.
IICRC-certified professionals have demonstrated their skills to experienced instructors and must take continuing education courses every year to remain in good standing with the organization.
This level of commitment is something that only a focused professional is capable of and is the kind of technician that homeowners should look for when in need.
About SERVPRO of Franklin County:
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
Renting Home Carpet Cleaners Could Cause More Issues
7/27/2016 (Permalink)
Although it may seem like a smart alternative, do-it-yourself home carpet cleaners can’t 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 possible for an untrained person to actually damage the carpet further if they are not careful, and also the process can be physically strenuous and stressful.
Home carpet cleaners are not as powerful, and this does not mean that the DIY varieties are safe to use. A person may not know to select the right detergent for their carpet fibers, leading to discoloration... or worse. An untrained person may leave too much detergent behind, or not extract enough water, and this can possibly provide the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold to grow.
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
Using Cheap Carpet Cleaning Services Could Cause More Damage
7/27/2016 (Permalink)
Franklin County, MO Carpet Cleaning
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
6 Summer Cleaning Ideas
6/29/2016 (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 soda 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
Gross Reasons You Shouldn’t Wear Shoes in The House
5/24/2016 (Permalink)
Shoes off for a cleaner carpet
How many times have you walked through your house with your shoes on? Hundreds of times? Thousands? If so, there are some good reasons why you might want to consider taking off your shoes.
Bacteria.
Some bacteria are good for us, some harmful. A study conducted at the University of Arizona examined germs on shoes and found an average of 421,000 bacteria on the outside of shoes, with nine different strains of bacteria. Some of the harmful strains found on shoes included Escherichia coli, otherwise known as E coli, which can give you intestinal infections, diarrhea and in rare cases, meningitis; Klebsiella pneumoniae, which can cause urinary tract infections; and Serratia ficaria, which can cause respiratory infections.
“We walk through things like bird droppings, dog waste and germs on public restroom floors, all of which are sources for E coli,” says Kelly Reynolds, Ph.D., a microbiologist and professor at University of Arizona. “The unique thing about the shoe environment is that other things you walk on like leaves and debris, can serve as food for the bacteria and help them grow.” That means potentially harmful bacteria can survive on your shoes for days or even weeks, Dr. Reynolds says. And that bacteria can be tracked onto your floors and carpets. It’s even worse if you think about resting your shoes on a piece of furniture, or on your bed. Gross!
Toxins.
Another potential concern: toxins. A study by the Battelle Memorial institute, a nonprofit research group found that toxins from treating your lawn can easily be tracked into the house, and a study from Baylor University found that people who live near asphalt roads sealed with coal tar have an increased risk of cancer from toxins. The toxins, they found, settled inside the house as dust particles. Those particles can be brought in on your shoes.
“Think about rain water in the street,” says Dr. Reynolds. It can have gasoline in it and chemicals, and those get on your shoes and can be brought into your home.” But, she cautions, the exposure to toxins would be long-term, and you would most likely have to be exposed many times over the course of your life in order to get sick.
Dirt.
“Dirt isn’t harmful on its own,” says Dr. Reynolds, but you probably want to keep it at a minimum, especially if you have children who play on the floor. “Kids often put their hands in their mouths, or have toys on the floor and put them in their mouths,” she says. One more plus to keeping your shoes at the door: It can cut down on how often you have to clean.
Wear and tear
More dirt and grit on hard floors means more wear on their surface; more dirt and muck on carpets means more cleaning and scrubbing. All of this mechanical action on your flooring means more wear and tear, meaning the sooner you’ll need to replace said floor coverings. Kicking off your shoes means spending less money on your floor and ultimately, less flooring in the landfill. Also, although the wear and tear on shoes themselves is relatively minimal when inside, it's still wear and tear.
Getting You Carpet Clean
Wondering what to do after hearing the effects of wearing your shoes inside? Consider getting your carpet professionally cleaned. Even the highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery. The SERVPRO System offers a number of cleaning options to match any type of upholstery or carpet.
Need Carpet or Upholstery Cleaning?
Call Today – (636) 583-5200
Sources:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/why-you-shouldnt-wear-shoes-in-house_us_55a11558e4b0a47ac15caad1
http://www.treehugger.com/green-home/6-reasons-remove-your-shoes-inside.html
Tips for Cleaner Carpet this Summer
5/24/2016 (Permalink)
Professional Cleaning
Carpets can take a beating in the summer. Family visits, BBQ and children home from school all day. SERVPRO of Franklin county can help get your carpet looking great before special events. In-between carpet cleanings in Franklin County, MO you can help keep your carpet clean with these helpful tips.
Keep Shoes Off Inside
Have family members take shoes off as soon as they come in the door. For social gathers inside, ask guess to remove their shoes. When a majority of the people walking through your home go shoeless, this can greatly reduce the amount of grime, dirt, grass and moisture that gets tracked inside.
Area Rugs, Runners, & Door Mats
When you’re planning an event which involves people wearing shoes through certain areas of the home, you can put down mats, rugs and runners to reduce dirt and wear on the carpets. Placing a doormat at the entrances of your home gives people a place to wire off and/or remove their shoes.
Vacuuming
Vacuuming at least once a week helps cut down on dust, dirt and allergens. It also prevents excessive wear on the carpet fibers. If you have pets or children, you may need to vacuum more often.
Hire A Professional
While you could rent or buy a carpet cleaning machine for a deeper cleaning than a vacuum, you will risk damaging carpet fibers with harsh chemical detergents and hot temperatures. Have a professional, such as SERVPRO of Franklin County, clean your carpets twice a year to keep them fresh and extend their use.
Summer should be about having fun. Don’t let keeping your carpets clean keep you from having fun this summer. Trust the Professionals at SERVPRO of Franklin County to get the job done right and keep your carpets and home looking clean. Give us a call - 636-583-5200
Spring Cleaning Sale
3/24/2016 (Permalink)
Have you started your spring cleaning yet? SERVPRO of Franklin County has some great specials to help you get all your tasks done in no time.
From a whole home cleaning, to just your area rugs, with our affordable prices you can sit back and relax.
Some of our Cleaning Services include:
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
Hiring Rug Cleaning Services Instead Of Attempting DIY
3/10/2016 (Permalink)
Choosing to hire certified rug cleaning services rather than opting to tackle a more DIY approach is the best option for any homeowner. While the process may seem as simple as a good vacuum and spot removal job, those alone will not help in prolonging the life of the rug. Many are instead leaving it up to a technician that has been highly educated and trained through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) will ensure the job is done properly. They have the latest tools and skills to carry out the job with the utmost care and detail.
An increasing number of homeowners are finding themselves with area rugs in one or more rooms of their living space. Typically, they take quite a bit of abuse due to the day-to-day wear and tear done by family, pets, and guests. That heavy foot traffic leaves dirt, dust, odors and stains behind. What started out as a useful, yet decorative piece in a room ends up looking worn, dingy, and full of bothersome allergens. Routine upkeep such as vacuuming and minor stain removal can be done, yet it is imperative to have the piece removed and professionally cleaned on a regular basis. The frequency of this process truly depends on the extent of use the piece has.
Technicians that are IICRC-certified have had the coursework and training necessary to provide superior rug cleaning services. From start to finish they will work tirelessly to restore the piece to its original, vibrant appearance. This attention to detail starts with an initial inspection to establish the type of material that will be dealt with, what debris and allergens are present, and if there is any damage to be addressed. At this time they will be able to give the homeowner an idea of the extent of treatment and time frame required. Typically the piece is removed from the home and brought to the business location, which is fully equipped to complete the job. While the do-it-yourself approach may seem doable to some, a true comprehensive treatment can only be done by those certified to perform these specialized rug cleaning services. It is important for homeowners to do a little investigating prior to choosing the firm to entrust with the job. Personal and online recommendations are a great starting point, as is the IICRC's own website. They provide a database of certified firms that are current on their training and continue to follow the industry standards.
For most, this type of floor covering was an investment in the home's warmth and overall decor. While it is there to be walked upon, it is also important to protect and maintain it regularly.
Why should you choose SERVPRO of Franklin County?
Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Certifications
- RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
- WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
- ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
- SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
- CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
- IICRC Certified Firm
- ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
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. 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.
We are proud to serve our local communities:
Give us a call today for an estimate on cleaning your rugs. 636-583-5200
Source: http://www.iicrc.org/hiring-rug-cleaning-services-instead-attempting-diy-a-460.html
Time for Spring Cleaning
3/9/2016 (Permalink)
It's that time again.
Yes, it's spring-cleaning time. To make things a little easier this year, consider hiring SERVPRO of Franklin County to help ease the burden.
How can SERVPRO help?
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."
Residential Cleaning Services include:
The SERVPRO carpet and upholstery cleaning service will not only get out the dirt you see, but will also remove the unwanted dust you don’t. A professionally cleaned carpet and furniture may make all the difference in brightening up a room and freshening up your home.
Our professional cleaning can address moderate and heavy soil conditions in your carpets. How often you’ll need professional cleaning depends on soil build-up, traffic, type and color of carpeting. 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.
We all have tasks around the house that don’t make it to the top of our priority list. Properly maintaining your home’s air ducts should not be one of them. Regular duct cleaning can increase your home’s heating and cooling efficiency and improve the quality of the air you and your family breathe.
Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your home or business.
If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Odors
- Dirt and debri
- Other contaminants
SERVPRO of Franklin County Professionals routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can in turn save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.
However, duct cleaning is not always necessary. 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.
The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:
- Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
- May help to eliminate offensive odors.
- Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.
Your basic cleaning service is not going to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors.
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 contact any surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor throroughly.
The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call, and leave the restoration to us.
Life happens.
Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents and homes get dirty. SERVPRO of Franklin County has the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service.
We want to make things easier on you this year. Put your feet up and give us a call.
Need Cleaning Services?
Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200
Post Construction Clean Up - Franklin County, MO
1/15/2016 (Permalink)
Whether it’s your home or business, cleaning up after construction can be a lot of work.
Remember when you moved into your newly built home or business? The new faucets sparkled; the light fixtures gleamed; and the appliances shined. More than likely, a cleaning company had come in to ensure that the home was spotless and up to your standards.
When a construction company finishes building a new house or business, all of the beautiful materials and amenities are usually covered in dust, along with footprints on the brand new hardwood floors or tile. A lot of the time, the showers or baths will have dirt and dust from the installation process and aren’t even ready for you to use. The granite countertops that sparkle? They were thoroughly cleaned before you saw them after construction.
As a cleaning and restoration company, we come in and after everyone else has finished. We clean the home from top to bottom; we clean the carpet, floors, counter tops, anywhere that debris has accumulated down to the tiniest detail. We make the construction process “Like it never even happened.”
Post construction cleanup is just as important when it comes to your newly renovated or freshly built facility! When you spend a few hundred thousand dollars (or more!) on a new facility; you want it to look clean.
Post Construction cleaning is essential! It is also very detailed, different from the routine cleaning or maintenance you already have to take care of. As a restoration vender, we know how important your home or business is to you. Give us a call and see how we can make your construction mess “Like it never even happened”.
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. We are proud to be an active member of the Franklin County community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.
If you have questions or would like to schedule an estimate, please give us a call: 636-583-5200
Why You Should Use Professional Carpet Cleaners Over Trying To Do It Yourself
1/11/2016 (Permalink)
There is no comparison between professional carpet cleaners and the kind of equipment a do-it-yourselfer can rent at a hardware or grocery store. Homeowners who opt for rental equipment may believe they are making the pragmatic choice, but it will likely end up costing the homeowner more in the long run. Rental equipment cannot match professional equipment in any way, and it often causes more problems than it solves. Of course, do-it-yourselfers also deprive themselves of the expert technique that professionals have learned during their time in the field.
The major differences between rental equipment and professional carpet cleaners are precision and power. Technicians work with industrial vacuums that can be effective deep within the fibers, and professional hot water extractors use minimal water for the best results. Rental equipment is hit or miss at removing various soils, and it tends to leave behind too much water following the treatment. The result is flooring that gets soiled again almost immediately. It also means an extended drying time. Excess water can also attract pests or molds, both of which can cause health issues in people and pets.
Perhaps most importantly, though, without professional assistance, homeowners will not be able to get rid of tough odors, stubborn stains or physical damage to the carpeting. Certified technicians are prepared to help homeowners in any way possible to restore their flooring to its peak potential, something that rental equipment could never hope to accomplish. (Source: http://www.iicrc.org/blog/category/carpet-cleaning)
Preventative Maintenance
Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. All carpet manufacturers agree on actions you can take between carpet cleanings to increase the life span of your carpet.
IICRC states that 79% of soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet.
Preventative maintenance actions include: - Regular vacuuming
- Spot removal
- Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
- Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
- Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet
Even the highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery. The SERVPRO System offers a number of cleaning options to match any type of upholstery or carpet.
Need Carpet or Upholstery Cleaning? Call Today – (636) 583-5200
Why should I have my carpets professionally cleaned?
11/4/2015 (Permalink)
We all know that cleaning and maintenance on your home is a major part of life, but do you regularly get your carpets cleaned? Cleaning your carpets is not only about appearance.
Health Benefits
How could a dirty carpet effect your health? Pet dander, dirt, allergens and even dust mites can become trapped in your carpet. People with allergies or asthma may be particularly effected. Having your carpet professionally cleaned can help rid your carpet of allergens.
Extend Your Carpets Life
Dirt and mud tracked in by pets, children and normal activates can ruin your carpets. Once this dirt is embedded, the dirt can rub against the backing of carpet. This can make your carpet thin and effect its appearance.
Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. All carpet manufacturers agree on actions you can take between carpet cleanings to increase the life span of your carpet.
IICRC states that 79% of soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet.
Preventative maintenance actions include:
Regular vacuuming
Spot removal
Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet
Our professional cleaning can address moderate and heavy soil conditions in your carpets. How often you’ll need professional cleaning depends on soil build-up, traffic, type and color of carpeting. 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.
SERVPRO of Franklin County will get the job done right. For a cleaning backed by state-of-the-art equipment, and Professionals trained to the highest standards, call us today. 636-583-5200
Why use a professional carpet cleaning company?
9/10/2014 (Permalink)
Sometimes it can be handy to run up to the store and rent a carpet cleaner or even hire the guy who goes door to door soliciting work for cheap. But there are several factors you need to consider before using this method of cleaning of your carpets.
Most rental or portable units do not have enough suction or vacuum to adequately do the job. The worst possible thing to happen in carpet or upholstery cleaning is to over saturate and under extract. Rentals and portables are usually guilty of just that. They apply too much moisture and do not have enough suction to remove excess moisture. This leaves you with a very wet carpet, which in turn can turn into mold or mildew and will also leave the cleaning solution (soap) in the carpet. Leaving the cleaning solution in the carpet leads to early soiling because the solution attracts instead of repel soils.
Often time’s small carpet cleaning companies use portables or underpowered equipment and you end up with these types of problems. A professional carpet cleaning company will utilize truck mounted equipment which heat the water, allow an even flow of solution, allow the operator to control the amount of moisture and have the proper vacuum to extract excess moisture. Why doesn’t everyone offer truck-mounted services? The answer simply is the cost. Each unit costs in excess of $18,000. That is the machine itself not including the vehicle, chemicals and accessories. All together with truck mount and vehicle and accessories the overall cost exceeds $45,000. At SERVPRO of Franklin County we are fortunate enough to have two of these units
So what should you look for in a professional carpet cleaning company?
1) Ask if they pre-vacuum. Vacuuming removes 75% of loose dirt.
2) Make sure they use truck-mounted equipment.
3) Are they a certified company? We prefer the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). This insures workers are properly educated and trained and are up to date with the latest technology.
4) Do they have the knowledge and training to handle stains and problem areas? We use specialized cleaning products based on the type of stain such as enzymes for pet odor and urine odors, anti-microbial for mildew and biohazards.
5) Lastly, be sure employees have a neat appearance, they are uniformed, background checked and drug tested. After all, you are inviting these people into your home. You deserve to feel safe and secure.
If you have had to replace your flooring lately, you will agree it’s an expensive investment. Don’t trust your investment with just anyone. Trust the company that Insurance companies, homeowners and business owners trust with their fire, water and clean up needs. SERVPRO of Franklin County. We will make your dirty carpet, “Like it never even happened”.
Until next time, please stay clean and green everyone! Jerry
Benefits of HVAC Cleaning
6/26/2014 (Permalink)
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