Sprinkler Water Damage

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

A fire in a commercial business or a property-managed real estate complex can be devastating. Still, when you add in the additional damages from the sprinkler systems kicking on, the commercial damages are enormous. Businesses and apartment complexes cannot afford to close for a day; it affects many different individuals' lives. SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park offers 24/7 commercial damage services to get commercial businesses back on their feet in as little time as possible.

Using SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park commercial services is like a one-stop shop. Continuing with the example, if a fire burns through a commercial business and the sprinkler system turns on, there will be both fire and water damages. SERVPRO's commercial services are an umbrella term that extends our normal services into a commercial setting. SERVPRO can simultaneously treat fire and water damages. Our commercial services reduce the cost that businesses pay because they do not need to look for multiple companies. The other additional benefit to SERVPRO is that they are essentially a liaison between insurance companies and clients.

Unfortunately, disasters are not preventable, but companies like SERVPRO are there to make it "Like it never even happened," with their residential and commercial services. For questions regarding SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park commercial services, contact the office at (727)521-2562 or message us on Facebook!

Tips Professional Water Damage Restoration

7/20/2023 (Permalink)

Plumbing defaults, floods, and sewerage systems defaults can cause much water damage to any commercial building or residential premises. Water damage affects the structure of a house and affects the contents of that building. Whether the damage is from a pipe break, supply line break, or flooding, it is recommended to work with water restoration professionals who help restore the building to its normal condition. In flood damage mitigation, several things must be taken into account because the process can be complex.

Water Damage Mitigation Approach

• Initial Inspection 

The primary consideration is assessing the entire pipe break or supply line break systems and understanding the work requirements. Water; therefore, the cleanup experts must, therefore, conduct a comprehensive inspection process regarding the water in the home or water in business premises. This helps the restoration company understand the cost caused by the flood damages, the time frame of the mitigation process, and the materials and machines required in the process.

During the inspection, the professionals evaluate the cause of the pipe break or supply line break and try to stop excess water from entering the building. Some components inspected by a restoration company include the pipes supplying water on business premises, the water source, and supply lines. If the flood damages contain some sewerage components in the supply line, the professionals will proceed with the necessary precautions.

• Water Removal 

After a restoration company has inspected the entire project, they'll proceed to the water cleanup process to evacuate water in business or residential areas. This is where the water is extracted from the inside and outside the premises, including moisture removal. With good technology and efficient water extraction machines, thousands of water in a home can be removed from the affected premises quickly. 

• The Drying Process 

After water extraction, the restoration company uses dehumidifiers and air movers to ensure that space is completely dried. During the drying process, windows are opened to allow air circulation. During drying, the restoration companies must monitor the affected areas and make adjustments to their water cleanup equipment if necessary.

The primary objective is to provide the most effective services, save the client money, time and restore the building to its normal conditions within the agreed period.

• Actual Remodeling 

This is the final step in any water damage removal process. The process entails re-tilling the house, painting, reconstruction of the walls and the floor, or even renovating the roof. Every remodeling process in each premise is done differently. This mostly depends on the extensiveness of the damage and the desires of the homeowner.

The remodeling process reflects the kind of design a homeowner shall have after the entire damage renovation process. The homeowner should define and declare the kind of designs they want to be restored to their flooded homes before the actual work is done. This helps in ensuring that the remodeling fits the desires and anticipations of the homeowner. It also helps the expert know the materials in restoring the flooded home, pipe breaks, and necessary supply line breaks.

Things to Consider

In case you experience floods in your home or a business premises, it is essential to start the water cleanup process as early as possible. Removing some things from the flooded home, such as the furniture, fittings, electrical fixtures, and other belongings, is necessary even before you call the experts. These are things that can absorb water and cause more flood damages and thus more losses. You can also ask reputable water removal companies to do such work for you to avoid more losses during the mitigation of the flooded home.

SERVPRO Conducts Routine HVAC Maintenance and Cleaning

7/19/2023 (Permalink)

Inspecting Your HVAC Unit Can Save You Time and Money

HVAC repair is costly and if the damage is severe enough, it can prevent you from doing business. SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park recommends that business owners schedule professional HVAC inspections each fall and spring. Routine inspections will help you stay abreast of potential problems with your unit, minimize expenses on repairs, and keep your business up and running. 

We have identified some simple maintenance chores that you can do to prolong your system's life and increase its efficiency between professional inspections and maintenance. 

Routine HVAC Maintenance 

1. Get a high-efficiency, pleated air filter for your system.
2. Keep your heating units and AC free of pollen, leaves, and grass.
3. Keep two feet of space clear of your outdoor AC and heating units.
4. Inspect refrigerant lines every month.
5. Replace air filters at least every 90 days.
6. In the summer, turn off the water running to the furnace humidifier.
7. In the fall, replace the humidifier filter and turn the water back on.

Annual HVAC Maintenance

• Replace the carbon monoxide detector battery. 
• Make sure your outdoor AC unit is on firm and level ground. 
• Clean AC condensation with a bleach and water mixture. 

Caring for your HVAC throughout the year will keep your work environment air quality and atmosphere pleasant, which keeps your staff happy and content. It will save you money by improving and maintaining your energy efficiency throughout your building.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is always ready to inspect and maintain your HVAC system. We're here to answer any questions you might have. Call us today at (727) 521-2562.

Water Damage 101: What Are the Categories of Water Cleanup?

7/17/2023 (Permalink)

Unexpected water in your home—where it shouldn’t be—isn’t something that should be overlooked. Whether the water damage appears to be minimal or overbearing, understanding the type of water and accompanying damage is important to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Types of Water

Any kind of flooding needs to be immediately addressed to ensure further damage doesn’t occur. Before grabbing the mop and bucket or wet vacuum, it is vital to understand the type of water that is being dealt with because there are three categories of water. These three categories vary by what type of contaminants makes up the water. The categories of water damage that restoration companies like SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park use are:

Clean Water: As its name suggests, this type poses little threat. This damage occurs when a water supply line leaks, a sink or bathtub without contaminants overflows, melting snow, or rainwater infiltrates the home.

Gray Water: Once water mixes with chemicals or minimal biological contaminants, it moves to this category. Sources may include a leaking dishwasher, urine-only toilet overflow, or water condensation.

Black Water: This is unsanitary water full of bacteria and microorganisms which bring potential harm to humans and animals. If there was a recent flood, it could mean those rising water included sewage and other debris. Flood water from storms is usually in this category. 

Types of Damage

When assessing water damage to determine repairs, understanding the types is important.

Class 1: The least harmful kind, it typically means that a minimal amount was absorbed in the affected areas. It is usually easy to clean.

Class 2: Known for quick evaporation rates, it can quickly absorb into carpeting and other porous materials. This damage typically requires more extensive repairs.

Class 3: If a sprinkler or pipe bursts, it can rapidly drench floors, walls, furniture, and other belongings. The rapid rate of evaporation requires quick action and water remediation measures to ensure the damage doesn’t spread or promote microbial growth.

Class 4: Excessive flooding means massive saturation of integral home components. Consulting a water damage and remediation expert is the best bet containing the situation and ensuring further damage doesn’t happen.

I Have Extensive Water Damage—What Should I Do?

While there are many levels of water damage, quick action in all situations is key to getting your home back to normal. If you are unsure which cleaning method to take after any type of flooding, call us. We are available 24 hours. Our number is (727) 521-2562. We'll assess the level of contamination quickly to advise you on the safest course of action.

By hiring a cleaning contractor like SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park, you:

• Reduce your likelihood of exposure to pathogens.
• Mitigate long-term problems like microbial growth.
• No longer have to worry about either cleanup or reconstruction—we do both!
• Salvage flooring, furniture and important personal belongings.
• Don’t have to hassle with insurance—we do that for you!

4 Easy Tips to Prevent Water Damage

7/4/2023 (Permalink)

With the school year coming to an end, this means kids will be “flooding” into homes this summer. Check out these suggestions from SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park for preventing water damage while your kids are home:

1. Be Careful Where You Plant. 

Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.

2. Clean Out Your Roof Gutters.

On a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some severe water damage! So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. If your gutters are too high, be safe and get a professional to check them.

3. Use a Drain Snake Instead of Unclogging Chemicals.

Most folks don’t realize these chemicals are eating away at their pipes (and they might not be too good for you either). If you rely on them a lot, you could be setting yourself up for leaks. That’s why owning a drain snake is an excellent solution to clear away clogs. They’re pretty inexpensive, you can get them at your local hardware store, and they can cut through most any clog you’ll have without damaging pipes or making your eyes red and teary.

4. Never Pour Grease Down Your Sink.

It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. Grease can still cling to your pipes and could even cause some severe damage and blockage. The safest thing to do is pour your grease in an empty can and either let it sit or put it in the refrigerator. Once it hardens, you can toss it in the trash and get rid of it. Done and done. However, we know that water and flooding emergencies can happen any time, so we’re ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – including holidays. Call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park at (727) 521-2562.

July 4th Fireworks Safety!

7/4/2023 (Permalink)

Happy Independence Day!

July 4th Safety!

The summer holiday brings an assortment of fun, outdoor activities, but the last thing you want to experience this 4th of July is a fire at or on your home due the use of fireworks! Please read the following for some firework safety tips, provided by the National Council on Firework Safety.

Recommended Firework Safety Tips

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public fireworks show put on by professionals. You should stay at least 500 feet away from the show.

• Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
• Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
• A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities.  Never give fireworks to children.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.  Save your alcohol for after the show.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never relight a “dud” firework.  Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into METAL or GLASS containers.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and placing them in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations PROHIBIT the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.

And let’s not forget the safety of our pets!

• Don’t bring your pets to a fireworks display, even a small one.
• If fireworks are being used near your home, put your pet in a safe, interior room to avoid exposure to the sound.
• Make sure your pet has an identification tag, in case it runs off during a fireworks display.
• Never shoot fireworks of any kind (consumer fireworks, sparklers, fountains, etc.) near pets.
• For more information on pet safety, visit our blog and get a free Pet Passport download.

SERVPRO’s Fire and Water Restoration

If you are dealing with fire damage from a house fire, our experienced team is ready to respond. Since we are locally owned and operated, we are prepared for damage to your home or business, and are able to respond quickly. Immediate action and a fast response can limit damage, prevent further damage and reduce restoration costs. Our highly trained crews have the specialized equipment and resources to handle the job, large or small, residential and commercial. 

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 Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is close by and ready to respond to your cleaning or restoration needs. We are proud to be an active member of the community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be. Call (727) 521-2562 for 24 hour emergency service.

Do You Have a Back-to-School Family Emergency Plan?

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

No one ever likes to think that an emergency could happen to them, but the reality is that disasters can strike anytime, anywhere, including while your child is at school.

Even if you never end up needing your family emergency plan, it's best to be prepared just in case. Having a solid plan in place will give you everyday peace of mind and, in the event of an emergency, could save lives.

Emergency Contacts

Make a list of 1-3 trusted emergency contacts who can pick up your child from school in the event that you are unable. Be sure to notify these people and get their permission. Review the list with your child to ensure they're comfortable with these people, know how to contact them by phone, and know what their vehicle looks like. Including an emergency card in your child’s backpack could prove useful for ensuring your child has the correct, pertinent information.

Communicate with the School

Ensure your child's school is kept up to date about who is allowed to pick them up. They'll need correct contact information and sometimes require a form of identification for their records. Many schools have materials they distribute to indicate designated pick up areas and other important information.

Drop Off Location

It’s scary, but it could happen. If none of the emergency contacts can be reached by phone or they're unable to pick your child up in a timely manner, alternative transportation may have to be arranged. Be sure to have a designated alternative drop-off spot. This could be a friend or relative's house, or another trusted location. Be sure your child knows the location, their current address, and phone number so that they can accurately tell authorities how to get there safely.

Reevaluate Each Year

As your child ages, changes schools, or your family moves, it's smart to update your plan. 

Although we hope your family never experiences an unexpected disaster, if you do, SERVPRO is available 24/7/365 for emergency service. Learn more here.

Immediate Service: Day or Night!

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Immediate Service: Day or Night!

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park provides 24-hour emergency service and dedicates being faster to any-sized disaster! We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Residential Services

Whether your home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's no convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, we have the training and expertise to respond with trained technicians to get your property back to business.

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Protection From Wind Damage

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Many areas of the United States have experienced heavy winds and storms this season, and the strong, powerful winds can cause significant damage to your home. Wind damage can cause a range of destruction to your property, from broken windows and fallen tree branches to severe damage to the roof, garage, or car. It can happen from the strong wind or indirectly from the wind blowing debris into your house.

Wind Damage from Different Types of Storms

Thunderstorms are the most common source of wind and storm damage, but winds from hurricanes or tornadoes are stronger and can cause severe damage. It can produce many types of bad weather such as lightning, hail, tornadoes, straight-line winds, flooding, etc. Thunderstorms are responsible for wind damage cases in the U.S. However, storm damage repair may be costly for hurricane or tornado wind damage. Billions of dollars are spent on wind damage repair and storm damage restoration each year; understanding the nature of wind damage can help you limit the amount of damage to your property and save on restoration and repair costs.

It's important to know when a storm is approaching your area and what type of storm it is so you know the potential and level of damage to expect. These wind damage facts will help you better understand the potential for wind damage and how to prevent it. Here are some steps you can take to minimize the risk of damage to your home when severe weather strikes.

Preventing Wind and Storm Damage

Most wind damage starts by flying debris either from plants or other structures unsecured. If a storm is approaching your area, make sure any potential debris in your homes, such as patio furniture, toys, garbage cans, and other objects, are either secured or brought inside. Secure your doors and windows to help minimize the potential storm damage to the home.

Roof damage reduces during the construction phase when the roof deck, shingles, or membrane is applied over the decking. A well-designed roofing system will anchor the trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the building in a strong wind. Roofing material should latch to the deck.

Loosely connected shingles will lift from the deck. Siding damage reduces at the construction phase. Fastened siding isn't as likely to lift off a structure in strong wind. Building codes will likely direct the minimum standards for connections. You, your architect, or your contractor may decide to exceed these minimums for a stronger storm-resistant structure.

Falling trees and tree limbs are another significant type of damage to structures in a windstorm. Tree maintenance to remove dead limbs or identify and remove weakened trees will reduce the likelihood of structural damage. Mitigating damage after a storm closes any openings made in the structure by the wind. Roof openings and broken windows are the most common problem.

Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that cuts to size and nails over the opening. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of an emergency close-up. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed. Falling trees and tree limbs can open a structure with sudden violence. Tree on a structure is a serious personal and structural safety issue.

Trees, at times, won't shift positions. It can shift and cause serious injury to the unwary. Fallen trees may mask severe other safety issues, such as downed electrical wires. The wires may still be alive, and the tree itself energized. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

Suppose your home or business sustains wind damage during a storm. In that case, it is important to contact a storm damage restoration professional as soon as it is over to help limit and repair the damage. SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

Inspecting Your Home For Damages After A Fire

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to lose incidents, fire in your Florida home can prove challenging to overcome. Even without crippling structural damage, the effects of a recent fire can often be too far-reaching for the average homeowner to face independently. Conventional cleaning efforts and general deodorization, for example, pale in comparison to the effectiveness of professional restoration services.

Reacting to the fire damage in your Florida home can seem almost impossible. Once the extinguishment completes, you can get your first look at the effects of the fire and what you have to overcome to get your house back to the way it was. Fortunately, this is not a battle that you have to fight on your own. Our SERVPRO team gets trained to handle all manner of fire restoration, from soot clean up to deodorization, to help make the steps towards getting your house to its original condition more effective.

Our estimator and project manager work to identify the full scope of the damage from when we arrive at your home. We survey every area, whether directly connected to the fire in your home or not. This thorough inspection ensures that all of the damage gets cataloged and that our SERVPRO professionals have the right equipment and strategies to contend with what they face.

This assessment of your damage gets delivered to the insurance company that covers your home. Most claims cannot get pushed through without a detailed itinerary of the work that needs to be done and a general estimated cost for materials and labor to restore the home to preloss conditions.

Whether the damage in your home was widespread or not, this process remains the same. Our professionals take great care in assessing the scope of the damage that your home faces so that no stone gets left unturned in the restoration process. You can trust our SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park fire restoration specialists to work quickly to bring your home back to how it should be. Call anytime at (727) 521-2562.

How to Locate a Shower or Bathtub Leak

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Check the Common Sources First

Before tearing into the tile work or uprooting your tub, it pays to investigate the more apparent areas first. After a shower, inspect familiar sources such as the:

• Showerhead face,
• The O-ring between the showerhead and arm,
• Faucet handles, and the areas surrounding them, or
•  Caulking at the base or surrounding of a shower/tub combination.

Leak issues are generally noticeable in these spaces and can be more easily detected by sight after running water through your shower.

Have a Professional Inspect Your Shower Pan, Whether New or Old

A shower pan leak is another usual spot for an issue, especially in tiled shower designs. These leaks can start due to the pan being too old and faulty or merely due to a new one being installed incorrectly. Therefore, it pays to have someone inspect this space as a potential cause for any shower or bathtub leak.

Determine the Severity of the Issue By Searching the Levels Below

There’s no clearer indication of a bad water leak within your shower floor than through the ceiling or flooring directly below the shower itself. Look for signs of water damage or condensation on the ceiling beneath a second-story shower or throughout your crawl space below a first-floor shower.

When you’re hoping to eliminate a shower or bathtub leak in your Florida home, follow any of these efficient methods for a quick solo inspection before contacting a professional for further assistance.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park Lesser-Known Cleaning Categories

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park has the means to help your commercial property—whether a main service or a lesser-known cleanup

So...What Does SERVPRO Do?

With so many restoration companies out there, it’s hard to know which company is the right fit. And in the midst of a crisis, calling for emergency service, that decision can seem impossible and overwhelming. We are a restoration company defined by quality. While we have built a reputation for our top tier fire and water restoration services, (seriously, see our 5-star reviews), we also service many other cleanup categories. 

SERVPRO’s Lesser-Known Cleanup Categories

On top of water damage cleanup, fire restoration, mold remediation, commercial and residential cleaning, contents cleaning—which includes drapes, blinds, walls, floors ceilings, upholstery and carpets—SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park also does:

• General cleaning and graffiti removal
• Air ducts and HVAC cleaning, not repair
• Brick, stone, and concrete cleaning
• Odor removal and deodorization
• Debris removal
• Vandalism and graffiti removal
• Trauma and Crime Scene cleanup
• Biohazard cleaning
• Sewage cleanup

Wow, what a list, right? That’s not all we do. We also professionally sanitize your home or business with our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned process. We have a proprietary blend of disinfectants to deal with biological contaminants.

Specialized Training — Certified: SERVPRO Clean

The Center for Disease Control Prevention (CDC)  set forth protocols, and we are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business to high standards. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants. We go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs daily.

The CDC encourages cleaning high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC's guidance for commercial spaces include:

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

The CDC recommends the usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line, available on Amazon, carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. Do you need proactive cleaning of your commercial property or any of our lesser-known cleaning services? Call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park today at 727-521-2562.

Does Your Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold Damage?

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Perils covered by homeowners insurance policies vary. SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg cleans microbial contamination. Free estimates: (727)-521-2562

The perils covered by homeowners insurance policies vary depending on the insurer.

Mold damage can be costly and happen anywhere, so several insurance companies have restricted or eliminated coverage for this risk under standard policies. If you are concerned about fungus growth at a residence, try to identify the problem's source first, then check your policy for mold coverage.

The Cause of Mold Damage Matters

Restoration experts commonly refer to mold as secondary damage, as fungal growth typically results from direct water damage.

Insurers are more likely to cover mold damage that results from one of the following covered incidents:

• Appliance leaks
• Broken or burst pipes
• Pipe leaks

Even if a policy does not cover the cost of fixing the problem, the resulting damage may be covered. Check your policy and contact an insurance agent or adjuster.

3 Ways Insurers Limit Mold Coverage

Many homeowners insurance providers have removed or limited the amount of coverage for fungus growth because it is a higher risk peril. Since mold can grow practically anywhere, anytime in the right conditions—it’s not exclusive to one geographical location. Because of this an insurer may restrict coverage in these ways:

• Exclude mold damage completely
• Only cover microbial testing or cleanup
• Refuse coverage on properties with a history of mold

Read your policy carefully to determine whether there are any conditions under which mold is covered. If mold is not covered, you may want to add an endorsement.

What Is an Endorsement?

It may be possible for policy holders to pay for limited mold coverage. Ask your insurer whether any endorsements are available. This option may be costly, especially if your residence has a history of mold.Homeowners should determine the limitations of their coverage and decide whether to obtain additional mold insurance.

Paying for remediation out of pocket can be very expensive. The best way to prevent mold growth is to mitigate water damage and potential damage. Don’t be caught without the right mold insurance.

Storm Damage vs Flood Damage: What’s the Difference?

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Storm Damage vs. Flood Damage and Dealing with Insurance

Property owners in Florida may have a hard time differentiating storm damage from flood damage—which is important when considering insurance coverage.

Commercial properties can sustain water damage from both flood and storms, but there are a few significant differences to keep in mind that may help you manage these risks.

The most general distinction is that stormwater comes from above, whereas flood water overspills natural bodies or watercourses and covers at least two acres of ordinarily dry land.

Storm damage to a commercial property may originate from a variety of causes such as:

• High winds
• Heavy rain
• Hurricanes
• Snow
• Tornadoes

Most business insurance plans protect from storm damage. Property owners need additional coverage to offset the expenses of flood damage. If your property is located on a flood plain, you should make sure you carry the policies necessary to protect your property investment.

Flooding occurs when water overflows a body of water or watercourse such as:

• Creeks
• Dams
• Lakes
• Storm-water channels

In order for water to be considered a flood, it must cover two acres and affect at least two properties.

If a commercial property is located in a high-risk zone, and the owner has a mortgage from an insured and federally-regulated lender, they must maintain flood insurance. Risks tied to flooding and storms should be known, minimized, and dealt with as soon as possible. Regardless of a moisture source, the risk of mold and other secondary damage within a building can be looming over the aftereffects of large, disastrous water events.

Restoring Damage From Storms and Floods

Restoration specialists can help property owners determine the precise causes of damage and the best solutions. If a property in Florida experiences flood damage or sustains damage during a storm, contact SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park at (727) 521-2562 as soon as possible.

Reduce Business Disruption After a Commercial Disaster

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park at (727) 521-2562 to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today.

After a major disaster, businesses suffer a variety of interruptions like:

• financial and emotional stress
• production downtime
• sullied reputation
• a plethora of other strains.

In the time period following a trauma like a fire, flood, pipe break, or other form of disaster, making the right decisions can be taxing and confusing. At SERVPRO, we regularly see local companies go through this and want business owners to know we are here to help after a commercial disaster. Part of that help comes through an emergency readiness checklist and disaster plan.

How To Minimize Risks and Loss of Revenue?

Creating a disaster readiness plan for your business can save you thousands on your bottom line, and can save your business, entirely. And the planning process does not have to be overwhelming when placed on top of all other responsibilities. Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is here to help take the weight off your shoulders by developing an Emergency Ready Profile for your company. Knowing you are, "Ready for whatever happens," will give you, your clients, and employees confidence if or when your business is affected by a disaster.

We Generate A Plan For You

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate action plan. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize the severity of water and fire damage on your business.

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile Advantages Provide You With:

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
  
  This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  
  It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects, but will save a lot of time if ever needed.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  
  This helps minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
• Professionals at SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park, established as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider!
  
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by for an emergency response.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  
  This saves time so we can start cleaning up the damage, so you can reopen your business as soon as possible.
• Specific Facility Details of your business such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
  
  You will have a quick reference of what to do, how to do it, and who to call in case of an emergency so that you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Contact SERVPRO of Central St. Peteresburg / Pinellas Park at (727) 521-2562 to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today.

We are here to be your total solutions provider during an emergency commercial disaster so you can do what’s important: taking care of your clients, employees, and other business needs. 

Humidity: Primary and Secondary Damages Explained by Restoration Experts

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park restoration experts to mitigate primary and secondary damage due to storm, flooding, and water.

Different Types of Water Damage

Whenever excessive moisture gets inside a building, the problems it causes can be broken down into two categories: primary and secondary damage.

Primary Damage

When water leaks from a pipe or an appliance, it comes in contact with contents and building materials. Anything that happens due to direct contact with liquid water, such as the carpet's de-lamination, is considered primary damage. 

Secondary Damage

Once water gets inside a structure, it naturally raises humidity levels indoors when moisture from wet materials evaporates into the air. Elevated humidity levels can also cause building materials issues since water transfers from the air into dry materials to reach equilibrium. When water vapor causes structural problems, it is called secondary damage.

Extraction procedures help reduce primary issues, and structural drying helps mitigate both primary and secondary water damage. When our SERVPRO technicians deal with any water damage situation, we monitor both relative and specific humidity.

What Controls Humidity?

Controlling humidity levels in a structure helps speed up structural drying times. Wet materials dry out faster if the humidity inside a building is kept low using air movers and dehumidifiers. Monitoring and strategic placement of these devices optimize drying times. When we keep humidity levels low, we also reduce water vapor in the air, causing fewer secondary issues. 

Relative Humidity

Relative Humidity (RH) is a measure of how much water is in the air at any given temperature. RH is expressed as a percentage, so if the relative humidity is 100%, then the air is holding as much moisture as it can at that temperature. At this point, if not sooner, condensation can occur inside the building. "Raining" inside your home can only exacerbate the already water damaging effects. Air can hold more water at higher temperatures, so increasing the house's temperature will lower the relative humidity. That is one of the features of our HEPA filters. Not only does the filter suck the moisture from the air, but it also heats the air to dry the space quicker.

Specific Humidity 

The temperature has such a significant effect on relative humidity, but it's not always a good gauge of how much water exists in the air. Specific humidity is the actual amount of moisture in the air. When our restoration professionals measure specific humidity, they count the actual grains of moisture in each pound of air. To find specific humidity, we measure relative humidity levels and the room's temperature. We then put these numbers in a psychrometric chart that gives us the grains per pound (GPP) number. 

If you ever need help with issues related to water or humidity, such as flood damage, storm damage, or microbial growth, call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park at (727) 521-2562, available 24 hours a day.

4 Things to Know About Standing Flood Water

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park at (727) 521-2562 if you have water damage that caused flooding near you.

After a flood, you may wonder what to do next. It's normal to feel lost, confused and stressed after a flood impacts your area. How do you prepare for water damage or contaminants in black water? Here are four aspects of standing flood water you should know about.

1. Water Can Be Electrically Charged

Some overflow waters can be electrically charged. If there is working power in your home, you need to take the utmost care to ensure the water isn’t pulsing with electricity. When it comes time to have flood water restoration professionals help you, your safest option is to turn off all power until you or they have finished cleanup.

2. Pathogenic Contamination

Blackwater is a major category of consideration for standing water, particularly after a backed-up sewer or storm. This floodwater occurs after 24 hours and is considered to be full of pathogenic contaminants. This water can be full of garbage, mold, and even sewage.

3. Look Out For Mold Growth

Mold can grow in as little as 24 hours and as late as 72 hours after the water has been stagnant. Warm, moist areas tend to be perfect for mold growth. After a flood, one of the most common types of damage people have to deal with is the mold that grows on everything from furniture and other items in the house—to walls themselves.

4. Get That Water Out

Removing the water should always be the first step when it comes to cleanup. It’s essential to make sure the black water is taken out as soon as possible before it ends up further damaging your home. Never let water sit in your Florida home; use a professional to help clean it up.

The damage caused by a storm can be intense, and it can be challenging to know which steps to take when you have extensive water damage. You don't have to go through this process alone. Call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park at (727) 521-2562 for additional information regarding storm damage. Our professional team will help you every step of the way. We really are Here To Help®.

4 Easy Ways to Prevent Water Damage

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

Check out these suggestions from SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park for preventing all kinds of water damage while your kids are home for the summer.

1. Be Careful Where You Plant. 

Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.

2. Clean Out Your Roof Gutters.

On a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some severe water damage! So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. If your gutters are too high or you do not have the correct tools, be safe and get a professional to check and clean them.

3. Use a Drain Snake Instead of Unclogging Chemicals.

Most folks don’t realize these chemicals are eating away at their pipes. If you rely on them a lot, you could be setting yourself up for leaks. That’s why owning a drain snake is an excellent solution to clear away clogs. They’re pretty inexpensive; you can get these thin, plastic sticks with thorn-like teeth at your local hardware store. Depending on the drain snake, they can cut through most any clog you’ll have without damaging pipes. 

4. Never Pour Grease Down Your Sink.

It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. Grease can still cling to your pipes and could even cause some severe damage and blockage. The safest thing to do is pour your grease in an empty can and either let it sit or put it in the refrigerator. Once it hardens, you can toss it in the trash and get rid of it. Done and done. 

We know that water and flooding emergencies can happen any time, so we’re ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – including holidays. Call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park at (727) 521-2562.

We Have The State-of-the-Art Equipment Necessary in St. Petersburg

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

Saving Facilities After Silicone Roof Water Damage in St. Petersburg, FL

As many Florida business owners know, water damage is the second most common type of claim that they can make. A staggering 20% of all insurance claims filed are related to water damage of some kind, whether this is from a pipe malfunction, storm damage, or other water-related issues. Without thorough mitigation and drying, this damage can pose challenges to the structural integrity of your business as well as the safety of employees and customers.

If your office needs commercial water damage mitigation, you can count on a certified SERVPRO team to handle the damages quickly and efficiently, so you can get back to business. No matter how large or small the disaster, professionals are dedicated to restoring your business and ensuring that cleanup is done to code.

Silicone Roofing Risks

While silicone roof coatings can help business owners with flat roofing save on electricity and other costs, there are some risks to consider when implementing this in your space after water damage strikes. These include:

• Abrasion and tear resistance. Compared to other coatings like modified bitumen, silicone roofing is not the most durable. It can get very slippery when wet, which can make it more prone to tears. Foot traffic dropped tools, and other activities can potentially damage the coating. 
  
  
• Attracting dirt. Silicone roofing, which is often white, can get a visible coat of airborne dust and dirt over time, darkening roofing. Clean regularly to maximize the energy-reflective nature of the roof coating and save on HVAC costs.
  
  
• Recoating. While recoating may not be needed as often as it is for other roofing solutions, it is imperative to choose silicone compatible with your current coating. 

How SERVPRO Saves Your Facilities

Suppose you have a roof leak in your facilities. In that case, SERVPRO can use centrifugal air movers and low-grain refrigerant dehumidifiers in tandem to pull moisture off of surfaces and eliminate it, replacing the moist air with air that is warm and dry. To dry a wet ceiling, technicians may open a few ceiling panels on either end of the affected area and position equipment so that air circulates straight up and through the space between your ceiling and roofing. This placement also helps warm, dry air circulate through the affected space for better results.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is here to ensure that your business looks "Like it never even happened." Call (727) 521-2562 today for rapid disaster mitigation.

Water Restoration Professionals Know How to Dry Your Property

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is a Leader in the Storm Restoration Industry for a Reason

Harsh weather conditions like flooding, wind, and storms cause devastating damage to homes and businesses. Property damage due to water damage and flood water overwhelms many with concerns for personal safety and properties' security.

When this form of damage occurs to your home or business, the first step is to find safety, then contact a trustworthy water damage restoration company.

An immediate restoration response reduces the extent of damage done to a property. Since roof damage is likely to be accompanied by water damage—a gaping hole is a recipe for moisture and storm water to make itself at home—a quick emergency response reduces the risk for internal and structural water damage and microbial growth.

When contacted, water restoration experts will analyze the level of damage and make a judgment regarding how to begin. Professionals' main priority is to secure property before cleanup, repair, and restoration. Once a property's debris is removed from the exterior and roof repair is completed, experts move to drying and the internal cleanup of furniture, carpets, clothes, and other items. 

The Drying Process of SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park

Oozing groundwater, especially in places prone to flooding, could cause damage, especially if no flood pump has been previously installed. SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park has a thorough drying process.

First, our team sets up industrial-strength drying equipment such as air movers and HEPA filtered dehumidifiers. Special care is taken to thoroughly dry the area around the original leak or cavity.

If water has seeped to the surrounding areas, special drying equipment is used. It can take 3-5 days for traditional drying. However, hard-to-dry materials, such as wood floors and crawlspaces, can make the process longer.

After the property is dry, the restoration of any damaged materials can start. Restoration is the most time-consuming part, but is very important and the bulk of returning the property to its preloss condition. We strive to make a property look, “Like it never even happened.”

We are available 24 hours for emergency response. Call us at (727) 521-2562.

What is SERVPRO’s Cleaning Process for a Commercial Large Loss?

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Cleaning Process After Catastrophic Commercial Emergencies

From 1980 to 2020, on average, the U.S. endured 7 severe climate events per year. Throughout the past year, that number has more than doubled, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information. Although statistics help describe the destruction brought on by natural disasters, no measurement can quantify the loss and trauma to individuals, families, and communities. The struggle of those involved as they work to rebuild a sense of normalcy is often not seen.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is proud to assist by offering Commercial Large Loss and Disaster Recovery services after any catastrophic emergency in the United States. With the resources of 17 SERVPRO franchise licenses in 6 locations throughout 3 southern states, we are well-positioned to respond to any disaster.

Our flexible, efficient team can tackle damage at private businesses, hospitals, schools, government facilities, and more. SERVPRO professionals are highly trained in fire, storm, and water damage mitigation. When mitigating damage on a large scale, our team uses the following framework:

Control the Environment

Commercial-sized desiccant dehumidifiers remove water from the air and dense materials while increasing the air temperature, further drying the structure, and helping to better control the environment.

Remove Contaminated Material 

To ensure a safe and efficient clean-up, SERVPRO crews will remove contaminated material and items that are beyond repair and remove restorable items for off-site cleaning. 

Dry the Structure

Various sized air movers and dehumidifiers are strategically placed throughout the structure to accelerate the drying process. 

Our crews can be ready at a moment’s notice, deploying cutting-edge drying equipment and service vehicles that feature truck-mounted water extractors that operate even without electricity. Response time is critical for communities to get up and running again. When disaster strikes, we are ready to answer the call and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why You Should Clean Your HVAC System This Sniffling Season

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Warm weather is here, so it's time to open the windows and let in the fresh air. As you embark on cleaning your home this season, you may forget an important piece of machinery that needs cleaning and maintenance as much as the garage needs cleaning! Don't forget about your HVAC system.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), pollutant levels inside your home can be two to five times higher than outdoors pollutant levels, and the ventilation system is often the largest contributor to low indoor air quality! Many systems go a long time before being inspected and cleaned, so if your HVAC system is like most, your dirty vents might be circulating odors, mold, and irritating dust throughout your home, too.

The EPA reports contaminants or foreign objects such as rodents, insects, dust, dirt, debris, bacteria, mold, and pollen have the ability to enter and collect in your air ducts. So not only is your indoor air quality worsened, but these critters and allergens can cause long-term damages to your HVAC system.

So, Who Cleans Air Ducts?

Cleaning your HVAC system is no easy task without the right tools, but that’s where a professional in the industry like SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park can help. We offer heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC) inspections and cleaning. In most cases, air duct cleaning is not essential to a smoothly run home, but after a major air-quality-reducing event like a fire with smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning is essential to limit the circulation of contaminants throughout the house.

If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating the following:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and debris
• Other contaminants

How Does SERVPRO Clean HVAC Systems?

Unlike most duct cleaning services, we use a Portable Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and sweep clean years of dust and grime.

This system allows us to:

• Remediate Bacteria, Fungi, and Mold
• Reduce Potential for Mold Growth
• Restore Peak Energy Efficiency
• Eliminate Offensive Odors
• Provide Free Written Inspections and Estimates

Our Duct Cleaning Process

• First, we use patented equipment, such as the 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 particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the 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.

If you have other cleaning needs, we provide various cleaning services. Call (727) 521-2562 today.

Benefits of Large Loss For Your Commercial Business

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Large Loss Restoration of Your Commercial Property

When a property is affected by a disaster, catastrophic loss occurs. Whether the large, commercial property sustains water, fire, or storm damage, there will be many different moving parts involved to restore the business to its preloss condition. Employing a restoration company that offers significant loss response can be useful for insurance agents and business owners alike. A professional like SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park will be able to make the process run smoothly since we work with the insurance directly and handle all parts of most large loss jobs in-house.

Our services include water extraction, board-up services, HEPA filtration, mold remediation, fire cleanup, contents cleaning, odor removal, biohazard cleanup, construction, and much more.

1. Experts Are Equipped With the Right Tools

When a major disaster strikes a large geographic area, it's common for restoration experts to be overwhelmed with requests and phone calls. Some local restoration companies may not be equipped to handle all types of disasters or at a large scale, and these companies may not have access to specialized tools.

A restoration company with a broad reach and the resources of 18 other locations, can bring in experts with the necessary tools to assist in the cleanup and restoration process of even the biggest and most complex jobs.

2. Experience to Handle Catastrophes

Whether a catastrophic loss occurs due to flooding, storm damage, or a fire, it's essential for business owners and insurance agents alike to know that the professionals restoring commercial properties are experienced. One person alone may not have the experience to respond to a major disaster. However, when numerous people assist in responding to a disaster, everyone's combined experience makes the loss response team equipped to manage many aspects of commercial property damage. 

3. Timely Reactions

When widespread damage occurs to an area, other local restoration companies may not assess quickly enough to be a real help. Unfortunately, a slow response can cause a property to acquire more issues, such as mold growth and structural damage. With our 24 hour emergency response, however, professionals can quickly assess a property, and take next steps. After a thorough assessment, experts can begin restoration. So, the faster the professional gets to the jobsite, the faster your commercial property can be restored to its preloss condition.

There is a reason SERVPRO has ranked number one in the industry for over 20 years. We stand with our work because we really are “here to help.”

SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Profile Helps Prepare Your Company for Emergencies

We want to help your business to be ready for the damaging effects of fire, water, and storm. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate action plan.

Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage affects your business. 

The Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a tablet and phone application that allows you to take photographs of important safety and emergency features in your business. Each photograph will have a written explanation of how to turn off the different utility systems. One of our SERVPRO employees will walk you through your business’s safety features and help you establish a plan in preparation for an emergency. Remember Murphy’s law—If anything can go wrong, it will. So, we want to make sure you are not caught unawares. 

For additional information regarding SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, contact us at (727) 521-2562.

Is Your Business Prepared for a Fire?

5/29/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Preparedness Means More Than Simply Owning a Fire Extinguisher

A fire is every business owner’s nightmare. Your insurance policy will ensure you can rebuild in the event of a fire. But what about protecting your most important assets: your life and the lives of your employees? To avoid the unspeakable tragedy of losing employees in a fire, it’s necessary to build a fire escape plan.

Tips for Your Business’ Emergency Fire Plan

1. Ensure your business has the proper number of smoke alarms. In newer homes, the National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires hard-wired, interconnected smoke alarms with battery backup on every building level, outside each work area, and inside each office. If your building is older and smoke alarms are not already in place, install them on every level and outside each work area at a minimum. Test your alarms once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
   
   
2. Teach employees what smoke alarms look and sound like. If your smoke alarm has a test feature, set aside time for a training in which you or a professional teach your employees the fire escape plan and include a smoke alarm test. If it does not have a test feature, there are videos online which provide demonstrations of what smoke alarms sound and look like. Teaching employees to recognize an alarm and know the plan of action ahead of time will give employees more confidence to remain calm during the emergency.
   
   
3. Ensure everyone in the building knows two ways to escape from every room. It may not be an ideal route, but knowing a second exit from a room is advisable. It is also essential to establish a meeting spot outside the building to ensure everyone's arrival to safety. Depending on the size of the building, this may require a customized escape diagram.
   
   
4. Establish an emergency communications plan. As part of your building’s fire escape plan, make sure everyone knows who and how to contact in the event of an emergency.
   
   
5. Practice escaping from your building at least twice a year. This may seem excessive, but fire drills can save lives in the event of a real fire. Employees come and go, so frequently performing this drill makes sure all employees know what to do.

Call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park if your business suffers commercial fire damage at (727) 521-2562. 

Clean Up Flood Damage: Call a Pro

5/29/2022 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park for professional flood water cleanup, professional drying, and content cleaning.

Professional Flood Water Damage Cleanup

While some water damage events aren’t very predictable, flood damage from storms is comparably easier to forecast. Storm surges, torrential rain, and rising water levels cause massive water damage for those who live along the coast or in low-lying areas. Flood damage is terrible in every instance, but the good news is homeowners and business owners usually have adequate time to prepare their home and/or business for the impending water damage as best they can.

When a storm ends, and it's safe to return to a damaged property, many find the water damage in the home or business worse than they could have imagined. It sometimes seems impossible that water levels can rise so high and cause such devastating damage. In the unfortunate case that this has or will happen to you, follow the following important guidelines for safely handling flood waters and their effects.

Do Not Go Back To the Property Without Permission

Even if your curiosity wants to know how much water is in the property or the kind of water damage; never return to the property without being notified first that it's safe to return by proper authorities. Flood damage and waters can be hazardous, and it's easy to forget that there is so much more than just water on the road or in a home. 

Beware of Bacteria

Before anyone enters a home or office with water damage to begin the water cleanup process, they must know how much danger potentially awaits. The water cleanup process should begin as quickly as possible, but it cannot be done if the area is still unsafe.

1. Live electricity. Don't assume just because the power is out in the town that there's nothing to worry about. The power could come back on at any moment, which means it could cause serious bodily harm to anyone in contact with the electricity or its conductors. Make sure all electricity is turned off at its source before entering any building with standing water.
2. Danger in the water. The second danger is what might be waiting for people in the water. There could be animals like snakes or dangerous bacteria found in feces like E. Coli. Always let the local authorities do a neighborhood sweep before taking steps to prepare for the water cleanup and drying process.

Call the Pros

Restoration companies have powerful equipment designed to allow adequate drying in minimal time. Professional mitigation and restoration are imperative because any missed moisture leads to much larger problems like microbial contamination. Restoration is designed to clear out all the water in places others might not realize it is hiding. 

Call for professional restoration and mitigation rather than handling the drying process without a pro's help to remove water in a business or home. Contact SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park for professional flood water cleanup, professional drying, and content cleaning.

The Importance of Fast Water Cleanup

5/29/2022 (Permalink)

How Fast Should Water Damage be Cleaned Up?

You depend on your business to keep money flowing in, and you rely on the building where location keeps business going. However, when a pipe or supply line springs a leak, it throws a kink in your week. The time it takes for you to arrange pipe burst cleanup can make the difference between a simple and fast water cleanup or extensive and expensive water damage.

The First Few Minutes

Water damage begins with a variety of events, including:

• Pipe break
• Supply line leak
• Toilet overflow
• Adverse weather
• Foundation crack

If all you need is pipe burst cleanup or supply line repair, the first few minutes of water cleanup are crucial. If possible, turn off the source of water as quickly as possible.

The First Few Hours

The longer water sits, the more potential havoc it wreaks. Once exposed to humidity, walls can start to disintegrate, and items made of pressed wood—which often includes cheap flooring—can swell and warp. Water from burst pipes and supply lines can also damage furniture and other supplies in your workplace. 

The First Few Days

Damage that is not mitigated quickly will also become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria growth. Prolonged damage can interrupt your business’s daily operations, possibly harming your bottom line. To limit the extent of water damage to your business, call a professional in the restoration industry like SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park. SERVPRO’s highly trained professionals are equipped with knowledge, experience and all tools capable to restore your business to its preloss condition. We know the disruption that results from supply line leaks, overflowing toilets, adverse weather, foundation cracks, pipe breaks and other catastrophes. By calling our emergency team, available 24 hours per day, you may be able to turn a potentially massive setback into an easy and fast fix. For additional information regarding commercial restoration, call us at (727) 521-2562.

SERVPRO Secures and Restores St. Pete, Florida Residents' Contents After a Flooding while Mitigating the Structural Damage

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

Storm or flooding problems in St. Pete? SERVPRO covers the map for pack outs, cleanup, and restoration services.

SERVPRO Packs Out Your Business’s Items After Storm Waters Flood Your Property

The chaos and stress of post-storm flooding at your business’s property is paralyzing. With water, debris, and quite possibly severe damage to your roof, windows, doors, and siding—you need fast, reliable help. Our team of disaster remediation experts has proven strategies to help you and your family through this difficult time. 

What is a Pack-Out?

We often recommend a pack-out after flood damage. A SERVPRO pack-out is when furnishings, household or office goods, documents, and personal possessions are moved to a dry and safe space on your property or transported to our production facility to be restored. Removing the items permits our crews to clean flooded areas in your home, unimpeded; extracting water, doing demolition if and where needed. This helps technicians dry out the structure faster without the need to work around belongings.

SERVPRO uses a detailed and secure Content Claims Inventory System (CCIS) to document and track the items we move out. Lists, digital pictures, and barcoding ensure we have a complete record of the articles. We collaborate with your insurance company to make sure the efforts we make to clean, dry, and restore the pack-out inventory are covered to the extent of your contract. It is typically less expensive to restore items than to discard and replace them. We help you save time, money, and memories.

Innovative Restoration

Our production facility technicians are skilled with innovative techniques such as freeze-drying for document and picture restoration. Floodwaters can be contaminated, so we work to ensure the packed-out items receive effective disinfectant treatment. SERVPRO provides temperature and humidity-controlled smaller chambers to dry out furnishings and electronics. Be advised that modern electronics often need precise cleaning from specialty companies. We have piston-driven Esporta washing equipment to clean soft items and immersion tubs and ultrasonic equipment to loosen flood debris soiling from blinds and intricately detailed decor and other items.

SERVPRO crews secure the exterior damage with boards and tarp, moving on to extracting, containing, and disposing of the floodwaters according to local regulations. We can spray and treat soiled areas with EPA-registered disinfectants before using commercial-quality air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to ready your home for the return of the packed-out items, "Like it never even happened."

Call Us Today

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park awaits your call at (727) 521-2562. Contact us to evaluate your flood damage and rapid remediation of your home and a professional pack-out of floodwater-damaged items.

Yes, Your Open-Concept House Design is More Flammable

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Eliminates Soot and Smoke Residues After a House Fire

Your home was not intended to stop fires before they spread to other areas of the house. Most of the materials used for constructing your home are flammable and actually fuel the spread throughout the structure. Further, the “open-concept” design that has become popularized thanks to HGTV personalities is a fire-spreading hazard. Flames and smoke can quickly move throughout the home because there is less fuel to burn, i.e. less walls, doors, etc. Building designs that have individual rooms with doors are more likely to have a slower spread since the fire can be temporarily isolated by the closing of doors. In any case, if your property catches on fire, it can incur extensive damage—and fast! 

Working to clean up the mess after the incident is over is no easy task. Most often, the substantial effects that stand out are smoke and soot damages. These are common versions of fire damage in homes, and they can often prove to be challenging to remove without the right equipment. 

Fortunately, our SERVPRO fire restoration professionals have the tools and expertise to help you through often widespread soot damages throughout your household. While the most concentrated of this effect can be found around the fire's originating point, where it burned the longest, this is not always the case. This matted debris and film from the combustion leave a dark, often black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials. 

Removing this residue requires multiple approaches.

Soot Damages

Soot is most concentrated where it burned longest, but matted debris and film from the combustion leave a dark or black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials, too. Removing this residue requires multiple approaches. For wall surfaces, scrubbing with wet and dry sponges can often remove the bulk of the film. Confined spaces like ductwork require high powered vacuums. 

Smoke Damages

Smoke damage often presents itself in the form of a harsh odor lingering in fabrics, carpeting, and open spaces throughout affected areas of your house. Removal of this odor typically requires thermal fogging, a process that releases an unscented chemical compound into the environment and contents of the room to break apart odor molecules and leave no discernible scent behind. 

The Right Solution

Unfortunately, this causes a bigger mess than most people are equipped to handle. Fire damage proves to be challenging to remove without the right equipment. We always suggest hiring a professional fire cleanup and restoration expert. We may be biased, but SERVPRO is just that. We have the experience, tools, and techniques to help you through widespread fire, smoke, and soot damages. 

When you face the effects after a house fire, SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park responds quickly to get your home back to preloss conditions, as soon as possible. Give us a call at (727) 521-2562.

Charcoal Grill Fire Safety

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips to Avoid a Barbecue Fire

Spring is upon us! The arrival of nice weather calls for grilling out with friends and family. Unfortunately, a grill fire is a real safety hazard in the right combination of circumstances. A fun get-together can turn into a disaster in a hurry. You can avoid a barbecue fire by following these tips:

1. Keep the Grill in a Safe Location 

Keep the grill outside on a level surface at least 10 feet from buildings and other flammable objects. Never grill under an overhang or in an enclosed area. Be sure to monitor it closely until it cools.

1. Keep Children and Pets at a Distance

Children and pets should stay at least three feet away from the grill. Ensure that pets on tie-downs cannot reach the grill; they can wrap their line around the grill and pull it over. It will keep them at a safe distance if a grill fire occurs. 

1. Be Mindful of Loose Clothing

Make sure that you wear appropriate attire when you grill. You can tie back everything with an apron. For added safety, use long tongs and spatulas and wear heat resistant grill gloves.

1. Use a Chimney Starter

A chimney starter is a much safer option than lighter fluid. It will also light the coals more evenly. 

1. Practice the Two-Zone Method

This simple, versatile method creates a much safer grilling experience. Put the hot charcoal on one side of the grill and leave the other side empty. If a flare-up occurs, move the food to the other side until the flame subsides, then move it back to continue cooking. The two-zone method can improve your food quality because it creates a searing side and another side for flame-free slow cooking.

Keep a fire extinguisher near. Do NOT use water; it can make a grease fire flare-up. Instead, close the grill lid until the outbreak subsides. If your house sustains fire damage or smoke damage from a grill fire, SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park can return it to its original state.

Prepare for Hurricane Season

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

Hurricane Preparedness Checklist

Atlantic hurricane season runs roughly from June 1 thru November 30 each year, with September holding the spot for the peak hurricane month. While, technically, hurricanes can wreak havoc any time of the year, this is the time to be on your guard the most. With that said, there are several ways to prepare for these storms during the off-season so you are not caught unawares.

Stock Up on Essentials

You'll want to prepare for the loss of electricity and the ability to cook by stocking up on water, bread, non-perishables, and items you can eat without heating. Also, make sure you have:

• Extra batteries for flashlights or headlamps,
• Portable chargers and cables for cell phones,
• Candles with matches. 

Check Your Insurance

If you live in a hurricane-prone region, make sure your insurance covers flooding and other expenses you may incur because of a St. Petersburg hurricane.  

Make a Video of Your Home

If your home is damaged from hurricane winds and water, a home inventory video will help prove the pre-storm state of your home and make insurance claims processing easier. It would also be beneficial to make electronic versions of important documents related to your home and your personal information in case the originals are destroyed in the storm. Include digital files of documents such as your:

• Birth certificate
• Driver's license
• Home's deed
• Social security card

Protect Your Property

Install hurricane shutters or plywood of at least 3/4 inches in thickness. You may need to install hurricane clips to secure the roof of your home to the walls. This is important in areas that may receive a direct hit, and install foot and head bolts on all doors.

Make an Evacuation Plan

When it is time to evacuate, go. Make a plan for where you and your family will stay at least 50 miles from your St. Petersburg home. If you can, pre-pack a bag before the threat of an Atlantic hurricane is severe. Load it with clothes, blankets, food, water, electronics, and important papers or photos.

Use These Tips

Don't Take Risks. Ultimately, people are more important than things. People hurt in hurricane weather evacuate late or stay in their homes altogether. Be wise and get out early. Prepare in order to mitigate panic and this kind of risky behavior. 

We Help with Hurricane Recovery

We live and work in this community; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated cleaning, damage restoration, and construction business, SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is a proud and active member of this community and is ready to respond to your Orlando home emergency 24/7/365. Call us today at (727) 521-2562.

SERVPRO Conducts Routine HVAC Maintenance and Cleaning

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Inspecting Your HVAC Unit Can Save You Time and Money

HVAC repair is costly and if the damage is severe enough, it can prevent you from doing business. SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park recommends that business owners schedule professional HVAC inspections each fall and spring. Routine inspections will help you stay abreast of potential problems with your unit, minimize expenses on repairs, and keep your business up and running. 

We have identified some simple maintenance chores that you can do to prolong your system's life and increase its efficiency between professional inspections and maintenance. 

Routine HVAC Maintenance 

1. Get a high-efficiency, pleated air filter for your system.
2. Keep your heating units and AC free of pollen, leaves, and grass.
3. Keep two feet of space clear of your outdoor AC and heating units.
4. Inspect refrigerant lines every month.
5. Replace air filters at least every 90 days.
6. In the summer, turn off the water running to the furnace humidifier.
7. In the fall, replace the humidifier filter and turn the water back on.

Annual HVAC Maintenance

• Replace the carbon monoxide detector battery. 
• Make sure your outdoor AC unit is on firm and level ground. 
• Clean AC condensation with a bleach and water mixture. 

Caring for your HVAC throughout the year will keep your work environment air quality and atmosphere pleasant, which keeps your staff happy and content. It will save you money by improving and maintaining your energy efficiency throughout your building.

We are always ready to inspect and maintain your HVAC system. We're here to answer any questions you might have. Call us today at (727) 521-2562.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park Introduces Employee Volunteer Time Off

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

In support of our core values and a healthy work-life balance, SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park rolled out a Volunteer Time Off.

Introducing Volunteer Time Off

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is uniquely positioned to help people during and after disasters with our immediate response to fire, water, storm, and smoke damage. Our company culture of helping others is not just confined to the workplace, but extended into our daily lives.

Healthy Work-Life Balance

In support of our core values and a healthy work-life balance, SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park rolled out a Volunteer Time Off (VTO) policy that allows all full-time employees to take up to 16 hours of paid leave to complete volunteer work of their choosing each year.

Employees are already enthusiastically using this time in a way that supports their personal values. This policy gives employees a greater capacity to donate time and energy to causes near to their hearts and have a direct impact on their communities.

The goal is to aid local organizations in a tangible way while fostering stronger, more meaningful community connections in all six SERVPRO Team Nicholson locations. This includes Clarksville and Memphis in Tennessee; St. Pete, Orlando, and Tampa in Florida; and Fort Worth in Texas.

With about 160 full-time employees in six locations across three states, Tennessee, Texas, and Florida, if each eligible worker uses their 16 hours of VTO each year, SERVPRO Team Nicholson will contribute around 2,500 work hours to local charities.

SERVPRO® of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park Promotes Two Employees

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

Congratulations to each of our team members on these achievements and continued growth!

SERVPRO® of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park Promotes Two Employees

We are very pleased to highlight the recent accomplishments of two SERVPRO of Central St. Pete employees: Andrea Rusch and Justin Cowan.

Andrea started at SERVPRO in the midst of the pandemic, when finding a job as a licensed esthetician became difficult. What was supposed to be a temporary gig became a sustainable future as she fell in love with the job and people in St. Pete.

After joining the company as a Job File Coordinator (JFC), she was recently promoted to the role of Office Manager. As Office Manager, Andrea manages onsite staff and Job File Coordinators. Her work style is pragmatic and methodical; she relies on structure, a schedule, and checklists to manage daily operations and responsibilities. Andrea’s previous JFC experience and general enthusiasm gives her the skills and attitude to lead in her new role.

When not working, you can find Andrea jamming to live music! The self-proclaimed “Phishhead”—no really, she’s seen them 45 times—also enjoys Humphreys McGee and other jam bands. 

In the last few months, we welcomed Justin Cowan, who temporarily transferred from our Fort Worth, Texas location for training. At Fort Worth, he filled the roles of Project Manager and Job File Coordinator, but joined us in St. Pete to train as a Construction Manager. As a Construction Manager, Justin learned to initiate, plan, and monitor construction projects, as well as ensure crew organization throughout execution of the projects. 

Congratulations to each of our team members on these achievements and their continued growth! Thank you for your commitment to bettering SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park. 

About SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park 

SERVPRO® of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park specializes in the cleanup, restoration, and construction of residential and commercial property after a fire, storm, flood, pipe break, or other disaster. Mold remediation, commercial cleaning, smoke/odor removal, HVAC cleaning, contents restoration, and pack-out services are also available. 

Our Employees

We pride ourselves on hiring people with a good work ethic, high integrity, and the ability to work in and adapt to tough conditions. We are continuously seeking individuals who are self-motivated, proactive, responsible, and service-oriented team players. If you are highly dependable and excited about exceeding expectations, consider joining us in our mission to help our customers in their greatest moments of need. See our available positions here, or reach out to recruiting@SERVPROclarksville.com any time. 

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 Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is close by and ready to respond to your cleaning or restoration needs. We are proud to be an active member of the St. Petersburg, FL community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• St. Petersburg, FL
• Pinellas Park, FL
• Lealman, FL
• Kenneth City, FL
• Cross Bayou, FL
• Ulmerton, FL

How to Reduce Pet Stress During a Storm: Evacuation Plan

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these simple measures to reduce your pet’s stress.

Plan For Your Pets

Inclement weather or fires can happen with or without notice. Creating an emergency plan can help prevent damage to your home and belongings and protect you and your loved ones - including pets! When putting a plan together, it’s important to plan for their needs as well. 

Make an Evacuation Plan

Remember, if you must evacuate due to an emergency, the area is likely not suitable for your pets either. Your evacuation plan should consider where your pets will be taken, if not kept with you, and how best to transport them. Make a list ahead of time of pet friendly hotels or friends’ houses along your evacuation route and near your final destination. Know that some hotels and shelters do not accept animals. 

You also might want to build an emergency travel kit for your animals. This will save time and worry when you must evacuate. 

Items to include in your pet's emergency kit:

• A completed Emergency Pet Passport containing important information like your pets’ veterinarian contact info, medical needs, license/chip info, photos, etc.
• Leash, harness, and carrier with blanket to transport animals
• A few portions of a suitable non-perishable food, water bowl, bottled water, and can opener
• Cat litter and pan or bags for excrement
• Medications
• Toys

Don’t Have to Evacuate? 

If evacuation is not necessary, there are still some things you can do to reduce your pet’s stress in an uncomfortable situation like a thunderstorm.

Pet Stress Symptoms

Pets may exhibit signs of stress and anxiety that can be alleviated by simple measures. Some of these symptoms include whimpering, hiding, pacing, or shivering. These symptoms may be caused by a variety of factors including pets’ greater sensitivity to sounds and air pressure.

As stress increases, symptoms may become more severe. Follow these simple measures to reduce your pet’s stress:

• Remain calm as an owner
• Create a comforting space for them in a smaller room like a closet or under a blanket
• Close blinds and curtains
• Keep them in their normal routine, if possible

Read more storm and pet related articles here.

Floods Happen, Here's What to Expect

3/27/2022 (Permalink)

Floods happen. Call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park for a free estimate at (727) 521-2562.

An Unexpected Flood, Now What?

Unless a house is in a floodplain, it might be unexpected that a creek would rise to flood levels, especially if it has never flooded before. However, sometimes it does and the house becomes a muddy mess of debris, water, and extensive damage. Moving homes might be the first thought to come to mind. For others, repairing the home and continuing to live in their house is the only option.

Flood damage is more than just the standing water. It's ruined clothes, toys, and keepsakes; it’s washed away memories, financial troubles, anxiety, and uncertainty. SERVPRO understands that because we handle disasters, damages, and people going through hardships—daily. We try to help you in every way we can. Part of that help comes in the form of disaster cleanup. We work with you and your insurance to make sure you can get back into your home as soon as possible.

Water in the home or business is just the start of the problems. Without proper clean-up and sanitizing, mold can grow, floor damage can be permanent, and drywall can be ruined. It is imperative to start the restoration process quickly in order to help limit the extent of damage and mounting costs. 

What To Expect

Water cleanups begin with bringing in equipment to extract the water in the home. Pumps and specialized vacuums are used to suck up the water. Restoration is a process. Once the puddles have been cleared, the next step will begin. The water damage will be on the walls, floors, and furnishings. Drying is imperative to help stop the damage and to prevent mold from growing.

Fans, dehumidifiers, and other equipment will be brought in to help dry out the water in walls and moisture from furnishings and floors. Thoroughly drying water in the home will save thousands of dollars’ worth of damage later. Sanitation of anything that touched the potentially hazardous floodwater and odor elimination is next.

After the restoration process of water cleanup, drying, sanitizing, and odor elimination, there is still one last step in the water damage mitigation process —repairs. The food waters have the potential to damage anything in came in contact with. The drywall may need to be replaced. Electrical outlets and wiring should be checked and fixed. Water in a business may have warped sub-flooring, damaged floor joists, and wrecked major appliances.

Professionals who know how to deal with the devastation left behind are the best option for quick, safe, no hassle restoration. Since professional water damage restoration companies have the equipment and training to handle cleaning, drying, and even rebuilding homes and businesses, they should be the first choice for water mitigation.

Floods happen. Call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park for a free estimate at (727) 521-2562.

When was the Last Time Your Air Ducts Were Cleaned?

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Air Ducts and Indoor Air Quality 

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in low indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your St. Petersburg home or business.

If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating the following:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and debris
• Other contaminants

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used in homes for heating or cooling is wasted. Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder and shorten your system's life. Although filters are used, the heating and cooling system still gets dirty through normal use.

When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn't have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-effectiveness.

Why HVAC and Air Duct Cleaning?

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

• Pets
• Occupants with allergies or asthma
• Cigarette or cigar smoke
• Water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system
• Home renovation or remodeling projects

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

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park professionals routinely inspects the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment, save money on repairs, and give you cleaner air to breathe. For additional information on HVAC and air duct cleaning, call us today at (727) 521-2562. 

Protect Your Home Against Wind Damage

3/6/2022 (Permalink)

When storms hit anywhere in the United States, our SERVPRO team can scale our resources to handle even the largest storm or flooding disaster.

Wind Damage from Different Types of Storms

While thunderstorms are the most common source of wind and storm damage, winds from hurricanes or tornadoes are more severe and may be more costly. Still, thunderstorms are responsible for a lot of damage, such as lightning, hail, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding. Either way, billions of dollars are spent on wind damage repair and storm damage restoration each year. While understanding the nature of wind damage can’t stop them from happening, it can help you limit the amount of damage to your property and save on restoration and repair costs.

What You Need to Know

Flying Debris is a Damage Risk

Flying debris can cause more damage than strong winds themselves. Damage can result from plants or other unsecured structures and objects. If a storm is approaching your area, make sure any potential debris in your homes such as patio furniture, toys, garbage cans are either secured or brought inside. Bonus tip: For severe weather, secure your doors and windows, too.

A Well-Designed Roofing System Does Wonders

Apply roof deck, shingles, or membrane over the decking. A well-designed roofing system will anchor the trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the structure in a strong wind. Roofing material should latch to the deck.

The construction phase of building a structure is the most influential piece in reducing damage caused by storms. Loosely connected shingles will lift from the deck, so fasten that siding down. Building codes will likely direct the minimum standards for connections. You, your architect, or your contractor may decide to exceed these minimums for a stronger storm-resistant structure—especially if you live in an area more prone to storms like near the Gulf.

Monitor and Maintain Your Trees.

Falling trees and tree limbs are another significant type of damage to structures in a windstorm. Maintain your trees by removing dead limbs. In addition, remove the entire tree if it is dead. Healthy trees should have strong enough roots to withstand fairly strong winds, but dead trees will not.

Mitigating Damage After a Storm

What happens after the storm? 

First, close any openings as soon as possible. Roof openings and broken windows are the most common source of water damage in these situations. Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that cuts to size and nail it over the opening. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of an emergency close-up, if needed, so contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

If the damage is too much to handle on your own, contact a restoration professional as soon as you can to help limit and repair damage and respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Faster Response

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quickly to your area with the right resources. This is extremely important because a fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Resources to Scale Up for Large Disasters

When storms hit anywhere in the United States, our SERVPRO team can scale our resources to handle even the largest storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1900 franchises across the country as well as our elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

SERVPRO Removes Pet Odors

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Don’t Live a Life Full of Unpleasant Smells.

Odors from smoke, pets, decomposition, or mold can cause lingering odors in your home or business. A simple surface clean doesn’t necessarily get rid of these smells. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO provides specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by smoke, mold, or other sources. Our professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the odor's sources.

Once the source is found, we use SERVPRO’s proprietary line of cleaning products to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more. Our proprietary line of cleaning products, SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park, uses various techniques and equipment to treat odors.

These techniques are capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

Some of Our Tools to Neutralize Odors

Ozone Generator: The Ozone Generator is one of the quickest ways to eliminate odors from a home or office. We use the Ozone Generator to oxidize odor and eliminate odors from mold, mildew, pets, nicotine, smoke, and more without chemicals. Though the room being treated cannot be occupied while in use, the generator works quickly to clean, sanitize and remove offensive odors. 

Hydroxyl Generator: The Hydroxyl Generator has several benefits that the Ozone Generator does not. The main benefit is that the room being treated can be occupied during the deodorization process, though it does work slower. The Hydroxyl Generator can be used to treat fire and smoke and biohazard jobs, water damage, crime scene situations, and animal odors. 

Air Filtration Device: This piece of equipment, also known as an air scrubber, is used to remove airborne contaminants during water, fire, smoke, mold, and sewage restoration work. These work by pulling air through HEPA filtration to remove airborne particles from the air. This helps clean the air and remove odors.

Whether you are a building manager who needs an apartment cleaned for the next tenant or a homeowner who wants to get your home ready for sale, getting rid of offensive odors is a high priority.

Fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is here to help make it, “Like it never even happened.” 

How to Remove Odors from Your Florida Home

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is here to remove odors 24/7, 7 days a week at (727) 521-2562.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park Removes Odors from Your Home

Odors from smoke, pets, decomposition, and mold can cause lingering odors in your home and business. A simple surface clean doesn't necessarily get rid of offensive odors left by smoke, mold, and other sources. However, with technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park provides specialized services that can eliminate those foul smells. 

Our professionals don't cover up lingering odors with a fragrance. We seek out the odor's source.

Once the source is found, we use SERVPRO's proprietary line of cleaning products to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will be cleaned and deodorized professionally. These items include:

• furniture
• draperies and upholstery
• electronics
• art
• flooring, walls, ceilings
• HVAC air ducts & more

Along with our proprietary line of cleaning products, SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park uses various techniques and equipment that are capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly. 

Tools We Use:

1. Ozone Generator: The Ozone Generator is one of the quickest ways to eliminate odors from a home or office. We use the Ozone Generator to oxidize odor and eliminate odors from mold, mildew, pets, nicotine, smoke, and more without chemicals. While the room is being treated, a person should not occupy the space. However, the generator works quickly.
2. Hydroxyl Generator: The Hydroxyl Generator has several benefits that the Ozone Generator does not. The main advantage is that the treated room can be occupied during the deodorization process, though it does work slower. It's used to treat fire, smoke, biohazard jobs, water damage, crime scene situations, and animal odors. 
3. Air Filtration Device: This piece of equipment, also known as an air scrubber, is used to remove airborne contaminants during water, fire, smoke, mold, and sewage restoration work. These work by pulling air through HEPA filtration to remove airborne particles from the air. Helping clean the air and remove odors.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is here for you 24/7, 7 days a week at (727) 521-2562.

New Year Cleaning and Decluttering For a Fresh Start

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Regularly scheduled home-maintenance and cleaning can curb hazardous, pricey problems in the future like fires and mold growth.

Regularly scheduled home-maintenance and cleaning can curb hazardous, pricey problems in the future like fires and mold growth. Since we are entering the new year, decluttering is a great way to improve the usability of your space—so you can freely undertake your big plans for the year.

More than a tidy environment

One of the easiest ways to declutter your mind is to declutter your home. If untidy environments are stressing you out, we suggest starting small. Pick up the general items around your most used spaces. Wash the dishes, fold the laundry, and make the beds. After the basics are cleaned, tackle the details. 

Deep clean the kitchen:

• Check for expiration and toss old food and condiments
• Wipe out refrigerator drawers, cabinets, the microwave, and oven
• Get rid of cupboard items you don’t use
• Empty the junk drawer

Main area cleaning:

• Dust ceiling fan blades
• Wash baseboards and walls—especially if you have children!
• Vacuum underneath furniture

Bedrooms/Closets:

• Wash curtains and linens
• Rotate and flip mattress
• Turn all hangers backwards, then when you wear an item, replace the hanger normally—this indicates which items you wear. Toss or donate backwards hanging items after 1 year.

Bathrooms:

• Scrub the bathtub walls and don’t forget the shower head
• Use a drain snake tool or drain liquid to break up stuck hair and scum in sinks and shower

Holiday Purge:

• For every gift received, get rid of one item
• Sell or donate decor you didn’t use this season

More technical:

• Replace air filters every 3 months
• Check and replace smoke alarm batteries

If you need more in-depth mold, fire, or water damage cleaning, SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is Here To Help®. We understand not every clean up is quick, easy, or preventable. To inquire about our services, call us today at (727) 521-2562.

What is SERVPRO’s Cleaning Process for a Commercial Large Loss?

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park professionals are highly trained in fire, storm, and water damage mitigation.

SERVPRO Cleaning Process After Catastrophic Commercial Emergencies

From 1980 to 2020, on average, the U.S. endured 7 severe climate events per year. Throughout the past year, that number has more than doubled, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information. Although statistics help describe the destruction brought on by natural disasters, no measurement can quantify the loss and trauma to individuals, families, and communities. The struggle of those involved as they work to rebuild a sense of normalcy is often not seen.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is proud to assist by offering Commercial Large Loss and Disaster Recovery services after any catastrophic emergency in the United States. With the resources of 17 SERVPRO franchise licenses in 6 locations throughout 3 southern states, we are well-positioned to respond to any disaster.

Our flexible, efficient team can tackle damage at private businesses, hospitals, schools, government facilities, and more. SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park professionals are highly trained in fire, storm, and water damage mitigation. When mitigating damage on a large scale, our team uses the following framework:

Control the Environment

Commercial-sized desiccant dehumidifiers remove water from the air and dense materials while increasing the air temperature, further drying the structure, and helping to better control the environment.

Remove Contaminated Material 

To ensure a safe and efficient clean-up, SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park crews will remove contaminated material and items that are beyond repair and remove restorable items for off-site cleaning. 

Dry the Structure

Various sized air movers and dehumidifiers are strategically placed throughout the structure to accelerate the drying process. 

Our crews can be ready at a moment’s notice, deploying cutting-edge drying equipment and service vehicles that feature truck-mounted water extractors that operate even without electricity. Response time is critical for communities to get up and running again. When disaster strikes, we are ready to answer the call and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Advanced Technology to Provide Expert Service

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park, we stay up-to-date with the most advanced technology and techniques. With these advancements, SERVPRO can swiftly restore your property reliably and more effectively to its preloss condition. You can count on a timely turnaround whether using SERVPRO for your commercial or residential needs. Practical standards for cleaning and restoration are put in place by The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Some of the equipment that helps SERVPRO adhere to the standards and stay true to the technological advancements are as follows:

Moisture Detection and Measurement

Specialized equipment detects, measures, and monitors a property’s moisture levels to fit certain scientific drying principles. Recent technology, like infrared cameras, helps us find water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

• For thorough water removal, an infrared camera may be used to identify water location.
• To measure the extent of saturation, we use sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters.

Water Extraction

Powerful extraction equipment removes the majority of the water from your home or business, accelerating the drying process.

• For continuous draining of high-level water, we use submersible and gas-powered pumps.
• For efficient water removal, we prefer truck-mounted and portable extraction units.

Drying

The remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors of your home or business can be removed using industrial strength fans and dehumidifiers. Proper drying techniques help to avoid swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed fans quickly evaporate excess moisture
• Industrial-grade dehumidifiers extract water vapor from the air.

Odor Removal

With water and fire damage, often powerful odors follow. Our advanced machines eliminate airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup procedure.

• Air scrubbers
• Thermal foggers and deodorization cleaners

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Antimicrobial Treatments

To fully clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property, OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be required.

• Deodorization products control smells from an abundance of moisture.
• Disinfectants and bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganism growth.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park will provide you with the most advanced technology and techniques. With these advancements, SERVPRO can swiftly restore your property reliably and more effectively to its preloss condition.

We Offer 24/7 Year-Round Emergency Service

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

Our large loss water extractors at work on a job after Hurricane Ida in New Orleans, Louisiana.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Florida! We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Residential Services

Whether your home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. 

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Our Services

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Our crews respond to a flooding related water damage job.

We cover a range of restoration and cleaning services for your commercial or residential property. When the unexpected happens, you can count on SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park to make it "Like it never even happened."

Restoration

• Fire, Smoke and Soot
• Water Removal & Dehumidification
• Mold Mitigation & Remediation
• Catastrophic Storm Response
• Move Outs & Contents Restoration
• Electronics & Equipment
• Document Drying
• Contents Claim Inventory Service
• Lead Abatement (RRP)

Cleaning

• Air Ducts & HVAC
• Biohazard & Crime Scene
• Vandalism
• Carpet & Upholstery
• Drapes & Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls & Hard Floors
• Deodorization
• Dumpster & Debris Removal
• Dry-Cleaning
• Data Center Cleaning
• Vandalism & Graffiti
• Trauma & Crime Scene
• Sewage & Toilet Overflow

No matter what your restoration or cleaning needs are, you can count on SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park to get things back into working order. Give us a call today!

IICRC Certified Restoration Business

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The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the restoration of industry standards and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo. IICRC Certified Firms Must:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who have been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to the Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes and accept arbitration's conclusions and recommendations.

The IICRC Develops the Standards for The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration, and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration, and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff has the knowledge to restore your property.

Career Opportunities at SERVPRO

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Interested in being a part of the SERVPRO family? Apply today!

With 17 franchises in 6 locations throughout TN, FL, and TX, SERVPRO Team Nicholson is an exciting, diverse, innovative place to work. We foster positive company culture, offer competitive compensation packages, and prioritize community involvement. Come find out what it takes to be a part of our team! 

Our mission is to be a proud, laser-focused team holding each other accountable while creating positive opportunities for our people and becoming the most efficiently run organization in the markets we serve. We value honesty, reliability, relationships, trustworthiness, and authenticity! Our team develops and provides solutions; we are go-getters and carry a “bring it” attitude to our work environment. We listen and value each other’s thoughts and ideas and strive to bring them to life. We are built on hard work, transparency, good business, and integrity. We believe “You can’t go wrong doing the right thing.” 

Bill Repsel, our Regional Administrator, shared his testimony on what it's like working for SERVPRO. He said "Every day is a new day. It is an opportunity to serve others in our community in a time of need. We have an incredible team of people with great talent that strives to make a difference each and every day." 

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is proud of the work we do and is always looking for like-minded people interested in a rewarding career. Please submit your resume to recruiting@SERVPROclarksville.com, stop by our office at 3798 131st Ave N, Clearwater, FL from 8:00 am-5:00 pm Monday-Friday, or click here to check out our current job openings.

SERVPRO can REMOVE Odors in Your Home

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Don't Live a Life Full of Unpleasant Smells.

Odors from smoke, pets, decomposition, or mold can cause lingering odors in your home or business. A simple surface clean doesn't necessarily get rid of these smells. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park provides specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by smoke, mold, or other sources. Our professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the odor's sources.

Once the source is found, we use SERVPRO's proprietary line of cleaning products to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more. Our proprietary line of cleaning products, SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park, uses various techniques and equipment to treat odors.

These techniques are capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly. Some of the tools we use include:

Ozone Generator: The Ozone Generator is one of the quickest ways to eliminate odors from a home or office. We use the Ozone Generator to oxidize odor and eliminate odors from mold, mildew, pets, nicotine, smoke, and more without chemicals. Though the room being treated cannot be occupied while in use, the generator works quickly to clean, sanitize and remove offensive odors. 

Hydroxyl Generator: The Hydroxyl Generator has several benefits that the Ozone Generator does not. The main advantage is that the room being treated can be occupied during the deodorization process, though it does work slower. The Hydroxyl Generator can be used to treat fire and smoke and biohazard jobs, water damage, crime scene situations, and animal odors. 

Air Filtration Device: This piece of equipment, also known as an air scrubber, is used to remove airborne contaminants during water, fire, smoke, mold, and sewage restoration work. These work by pulling air through HEPA filtration to remove airborne particles from the air.

This helps clean the air and remove odors. Whether you are a building manager who needs an apartment cleaned for the next tenant or a homeowner who wants to get your home ready for sale, getting rid of offensive odors is a high priority. Fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is here to help make it "Like it never even happened." Call (727) 521-2562 today.

Drying Out Water Damage

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We're the right restoration company for you. Call us today for a free estimate!

After a plumbing disaster, Florida homeowners need a water vac to pull water off the floor, open the doors and windows, and rent a rug shampooer from the local big box store. To restore a home takes a professional restoration service. Drying a house with water damage in Central St. Petersburg requires attention to four key factors that affect humidity.

SERVPRO restoration specialists train to analyze each one, knowing which drying methods and equipment they need to use in each home. It all comes down to HEAT. Humidity levels determine the level of water vapor in the air in a home compared to its capacity. A level of 60 percent or higher indicates the air is saturated. That greatly slows evaporation and increases drying time. Specialists use dehumidifiers to reduce the humidity level in each affected room. Working dehumidifiers can lower the level up to 20 percent every 24 hours.

Evaporation is the natural process of water converting to vapor. With large amounts of water, it is slow. Our SERVPRO specialists use pumps and smaller extraction devices to remove the bulk of the standing water. They get the amount below two inches in depth, the rate of evaporation increases. An augment rate of evaporation with dehumidifiers is to exhaust fans to increase movement, forcing saturated air outside the home.

Air movement increases by causing dry air to spread across damp surfaces like walls, tables, and countertops to increase the evaporation rate. Air movers and fans' combination to increase air movement is useful to dry clothing in a gentle manner that doesn't damage the fabric. Temperature is an essential factor. Since the preferred range to dry home and property is 70 to 90 degrees, we try to engage the HVAC system if it is operational.

If not, specialists use space heaters to raise the internal temperature. They monitor the temperature to keep it under 80 degrees on the first day; however, a higher temperature can increase the humidity.

At SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park, we use every tool and method available to return every residence to a dry, safe condition for families to live in once again. If you have had a recent water issue in your home, call us at (727) 521-2562 to schedule a visit. We are here for you. 

Inspecting Your Home For Damages After A Fire

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When it comes to lose incidents, fire in your Florida home can prove challenging to overcome. Even without crippling structural damage, the effects of a recent fire can often be too far-reaching for the average homeowner to face independently. Conventional cleaning efforts and general deodorization, for example, pale in comparison to the effectiveness of professional restoration services.

Reacting to the fire damage in your Florida home can seem almost impossible. Once the extinguishment completes, you can get your first look at the effects of the fire and what you have to overcome to get your house back to the way it was. Fortunately, this is not a battle that you have to fight on your own. Our SERVPRO team gets trained to handle all manner of fire restoration, from soot clean up to deodorization, to help make the steps towards getting your house to its original condition more effective.

Our estimator and project manager work to identify the full scope of the damage from when we arrive at your home. We survey every area, whether directly connected to the fire in your home or not. This thorough inspection ensures that all of the damage gets cataloged and that our SERVPRO professionals have the right equipment and strategies to contend with what they face.

This assessment of your damage gets delivered to the insurance company that covers your home. Most claims cannot get pushed through without a detailed itinerary of the work that needs to be done and a general estimated cost for materials and labor to restore the home to preloss conditions.

Whether the damage in your home was widespread or not, this process remains the same. Our professionals take great care in assessing the scope of the damage that your home faces so that no stone gets left unturned in the restoration process. You can trust our SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park fire restoration specialists to work quickly to bring your home back to how it should be. Call anytime at (727) 521-2562.

Flood Damage From Your Roof

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Flood Damage Problems in Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park from Storm Damaged Roofs

When a storm comes into the Florida area, damage to your roof is relatively standard. Once a hole in your roof gets large enough, extensive flood damage can result. During a rainstorm, many winds or even hail elements can arise that can ruin your roof shingles. Wind can blow rocks or other objects into your home and create holes in your roof or exterior walls that rainwater can enter. Once the water starts entering the interior of your home, flood damage can occur from the top of your house to the bottom.

As soon as moisture enters your home from the outside, multiple issues can quickly arise. The best thing to do is immediately call in a professional restoration company such as SERVPRO to mitigate the flood damage inside your home. Water coming from the outside is considered black water and may be contaminated with harmful bacteria. Rainwater can also bring microbes from the outside, increasing the chance of microbial growth. No one wants molds growing in their attics.

In many cases, the first place that retains moisture after your roof leaks in your attic. Elevated moisture levels inside your attic can ruin building materials if the area does not get dried out promptly. If the insulation inside the attic gets wet, the moisture can decrease the R-value of the material. Some types of insulation can get dry when wet, whereas other kinds must be removed. 

After removing wet insulation, our SERVPRO team can then dry out the wet ceiling materials and roof trusses. To do this, we often create a containment chamber to control the environment in the affected area better and prevent harmful particles from entering the rest of the house. We then set up heated air movers to create a circular air movement inside the area. In addition to the air movers, we also set up dehumidifiers that remove moisture from the air. Once building materials are dry, we treat the attic with anti-microbial chemicals and sometimes spray the trusses with a specialized sealant paint to inhibit fungal growth. 

If you ever have a problem inside your attic after a storm, call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park at (727) 521-2562.

Preventing Flood Damage

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According to the National Flood Insurance Program, flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States, causing $2.7 billion in losses between 2001 and 2010. Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding, so it may be necessary to buy a separate flood policy for your home.

Three Key Steps

Here are a couple of tips to keep water from entering your home during a heavy rain event:

1. Fix foundation leaks that may allow water to enter your home.
2. Make sure your roof is secure and protected.
3. Clear gutters and drains

If water ever floods your home, getting someone on-site as soon as possible is key to keeping the amount of damage to a minimum. SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is ready to respond at any time and also provides a free assessment!

How To Check For Roof Damage After a Storm

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After a significant storm, it's a good idea to inspect your Central St. Petersburg property for storm damage. Your Floridas home's main line of defense is your roof, and it takes a beating. Pay attention to things like dings in your gutters or tears in your window screens, indicating hail damage. You may see missing tiles or other signs of roof damage from the ground, but most leaks don't represent a need for whole roof replacement. Usually, the leak is coming from something requiring minor roof repair. Find the source of the leak, stop it, and clean the water damage.

Find the Leak Source

During storms in Florida, wind damage lets the rain into your roof. From the inside of your home, look for stains that indicate the leak source and areas needing roof repair. You may see water stains on your ceiling or coming down a wall. When you see that, get your flashlight and head to that area. Here are five familiar sources for a roof leak:

1. Vents and fans

2. Chimneys

3. Window dormers

4. Vent pipes

5. Unsecured nails and nail holes

Fix Water Damage

To complete your roof repair, start looking for materials damaged by water. Check for discolorations and rotting wood and wet drywall and insulation. When you find mold, remain careful and don't spread it during cleanup.

A mold remediation professional can help create a containment area while working on the water and mold damage. If you haven't found mold, be sure to start drying any wet materials immediately. Mold can begin growing on wet damaged materials in as little as 48 hours. Complete drying is critical to preventing mold, and it may take longer than you realize. Specialists have monitoring equipment that they use to ensure materials are dry.

Signs of Mold in Your Home

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In as little as 48 hours, mold can become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or a leaking water line. If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety. Make sure you avoid affected areas and turn off the HVAC system and fans. Contact SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park for mold remediation services. Remember, significant mold growth can occur in as little as 48 to 72 hours. You might notice a strong, musty odor; this may indicate mold hidden by drywall or under carpeting; mold isn’t always visible, but the odor can help identify it. Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.

If you suspect mold growth in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park at (727) 521-2562.

Overcoming Soot Damage

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 Had a fire in your Florida home? SERVPRO is here to help!

SERVPRO Has the Experience to Eliminate Different Types of Soot Residues Remaining in Your Home After a Fire

Your Florida home wasn't intended to stop fires before they spread to other areas of the house. The materials used to construct your home can catch fire and help it to spread throughout the structure. Unfortunately, this can spread the blaze throughout your property and cause a lot of work for the professional restoration team you choose for restoration.  

Working to clean up the mess after the incident is over is no easy task, either. The substantial effects that stand out are smoke and soot damages. These are common versions of fire damage in Florida homes, and they can prove challenging to remove without the right equipment. 

Fortunately, our SERVPRO professionals have the tools and expertise to help you through often widespread soot damages throughout your household. Soot damage is predominately at the fire's originating point, where it burned the longest. This isn't always the case. This matted debris and film from the combustion leave a dark, black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials. 

Removing this residue requires multiple approaches. For wall surfaces, scrubbing with wet and dry sponges can often remove the present film's bulk. Confined spaces like ductwork require high-powered vacuums to get used instead.  

Smoke damage presents itself in the form of odor lingering in fabrics, carpeting, and open spaces throughout areas of your house. Removal of this odor requires thermal fogging, a process that releases an unscented chemical compound into the environment and contents of the room to break apart odor molecules and leaves no discernable scent behind. 

There is very little that most homeowners can do alone to bring their homes back from the harmful effects of a fire. When you face these kinds of damages, seek out the professionals we employ at SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park. We can respond quickly and get your home back to preloss conditions as soon as possible. Give us a call 24/7 at (727) 521-2562.

Commercial Mold Removal

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We received a call from a local property owner to check out a restaurant he purchased to renovate resulted in a large mold job for SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park. Upon entering this abandoned space, it became clear immediately this was a mold remediation job for the experts! So we went to work! With mold covering the walls, the bar area, baseboards, and crown “mold”ing (pun intended), our crew had to suit up with PPE, including respirators and Tyvek suits, to be sure they were protected! Mold remediation is a very tedious job for a home, but it is even more so when it is a commercial property like a restaurant. Containment must be set up to not contaminated unaffected areas. All items with mold exposure had to be disposed of properly. At the end of the demo and clean-up, an industrial hygienist was brought in to ensure that the commercial property was checked out!

Mold remediation in a commercial property is a tedious yet rewarding job, especially when we get to see a building brought back to life!

SERVPRO is More Than Just Water Cleanup

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SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park does more than just water damage cleanup, fire cleanup, mold cleanup, and carpet cleanings. With our addition of a construction division, we can provide building services most restoration companies can not. Like for example, the removal of graffiti.

Vandalism and graffiti can be very upsetting. It can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. Often, simple vandalism acts, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed promptly.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park will act quickly to remove vandalism and graffiti from home and commercial spaces. In addition to removing spray-painted graffiti from exterior walls, we can also clean driveways, walkways, asphalt, metals, wood, glass, plastic, and masonry. Our highly trained technicians can offer the following services:

• General cleaning and graffiti removal
• Brick, stone, and concrete cleaning
• Odor removal and deodorization
• Debris removal
• Water damage restoration
• Fire damage restoration
• Mold damage restoration
• Contents cleaning

Did You Know?

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Residues (such as burning plastics or the soot from furnace disorders) form long chains of ionized smoke particles that assemble in corners or at junctions of walls and ceilings called smoke webs!

Does Your Business Have a Plan?

Check out these tips from SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park. Protect your people: Your employees are your most crucial business asset. These tips can help prevent them from being injured in a fire.

• Fire Plans: Make sure your employees know what to do if there's a fire, including calling 911 immediately. Conduct a fire drill at least once a year to keep employees aware of your workplace fire safety protocol. 
  
  
• Evacuation Plan: In larger buildings, post a fire evacuation plan in several spots around the workplace. Never include elevators in an evacuation plan; always use the stairs. 
  
  
• First Aid: In case of fire injuries, your employees should be familiar with the location of the first-aid kit, which should be kept where possible hazards can occur most-such as in the kitchen.

Water Removal is a Process in South Orlando

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Orlando is ready to serve you!

SERVPRO Arrives with Water Detection and Water Removal Equipment

Natural flood, pipe leaks, sewer backup, washer overflow, toilet problems, and pump failure can wreak water havoc to your home in South Orlando. You may feel like you have lost all control of your home, and it can only get worse if you hire a company that rips and tears your walls, furniture, carpet, and other personal belongings out of its place. This process can leave you clutching your chest in agony as well as a hole in your wallet.

Water removal in South Orlando is not an easy task. Homeowners often try to clean the water problems without consulting the experts, causing more damage and problems. Some components are involved in water damage restoration. It's not something that a beginner should consider tackling. You would need to replace everything that was involved in the water damage immediately. If you ignore this process, then mold, mildew, fungus, and bacteria can grow in your house. Hiring a water restoration company is a smart decision because they have all the necessary tools to take out extra water to prevent further damage. Plus, a thorough cleaning and drying process would require experienced water damage restoration services.

A SERVPRO technician would contact you to arrange a service within one hour of notice that water damage has occurred. Within four hours, uniformed, trained techs would be on-site to start the mitigation service, a fast-acting method of extracting water out of the area. These technicians would use advanced technology such as moisture sensors, moisture meters, and Thermohygrometers to detect moisture in the air. This equipment helps them determine the best drying process that would get the job done.

SERVPRO has other high-tech equipment such as extractors to help remove water from carpets and other flooring material. Air movers would enhance evaporation to reduce drying time. Dehumidifiers would extract water vapor from the air. After removing all the water, they would use deodorizer equipment such as thermal foggers to neutralize any odor caused by the water damage. Afterward, these technicians would perform a thorough walk-through with you to ensure that you are delighted with the service.

With SERVPRO of South Orlando, you can expect reliable and excellent customer services and experts to get the job done. Call (919) 790-1222 to set up an appointment to speak with our skilled and experienced technicians.

Reasons Water Removal May be Needed

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Reasons Water Removal May be Needed For Your Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park Home

Water damage in your Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park home occurs when excess water starts to pool where it shouldn’t. Several factors can make this excess water, and therefore, contribute to damage to your structure. When you know what the potential causes are, you can take precautionary steps to help you avoid a water loss. You can also spot an issue once it arises and gets it fixed before it has a chance to do additional damage.

The faster you see a problem, the less work and extraction there is. Either way, water cleanup needs to be done in your Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park home, and you should hire the help of a professional remediation company to do the job. SERVPRO staff is available to help you at any time with the experience and knowledge that you would expect from a reputable company.

A common cause of water damage in your home is broken hoses and pipes. Things such as aging pipes, a burst water main, or ice maker supply lines and washing machine supply hoses that fail certainly ruin your day. It is a good idea to purchase copper pipes and braided metal lines to replace the original ones, as they hold up much better so you can avoid accidents.

No matter what has happened, SERVPRO techs can help you get your home dry and back in its usual condition. We have various tools to help us get the water out, including moisture meters and sensors to find any hidden moisture, truck-mounted pumps to get rid of any standing water over a few inches deep, plus air movers and dehumidifiers to dry everything back out. We also work promptly, so we avoid additional damage being done to your structure, such as mold growth.

Another common reason for water damage in your home includes broken toilets and overflowing bathtubs. Children are big culprits, so your best defense is to watch them! Water is fascinating to children, especially when it is flowing over the toilet and tub rims.

Sewer backups, unfortunately, happen as well. Tree roots can invade and clog your drain lines. Using an enzyme drain treatment to flush out your lines every month during the spring and summer months when tree roots grow the most is a good idea to avoid this kind of catastrophe.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park can help you dry your home after a water damage emergency, no matter what type it is. Just give our crew a call at (727) 521-2562 as soon as you realize there is an issue so we can come quickly and fix things for you.

What Happens When I Have Water Damage?

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Residential home with water damage.

Nobody likes the unexpected – it can be scary and overwhelming and, worst case, time and cost consuming. That’s why at SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park we try and ease the blow of the unexpected. We are a team of highly trained individuals with specialized equipment, tools, and skills needed to make sure that your water damage is taken care of swiftly and adequately.

What Can You Expect When You Call Us?

One of our employees in the office will first take your call; we’ll take your name, number, and address down and then ask detailed questions to know exactly what your situation looks like. As soon as we hang up the phone with you, we are dispatching a team out to your home and business so they can be on-site as soon as possible. You will also be assigned an admin within the office to take care of your job – they will give you updates and work with your insurance provider.

Once we get to your home, we will extract any standing water that needs to be extracted using either a handheld extractor or an extractor that we can ride on. We will then place fans and dehumidifiers to help with the drying process.

In the next few days, we will continue to monitor the drying process, and we will drill holes and pull baseboards if necessary.

If you find yourself with an unexpected water loss, give us a call at (727) 521-2562!

10 Things You Should Know About Mold

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1. Mold exposures may include health effects.
   
   
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
   
   
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate moisture sources.
   
   
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
   
   
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth.
   
   
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
   
   
7. You should clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent and dry thoroughly. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles that are moldy may need to be replaced.
   
   
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
   
   
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
   
   
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. Some molds can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

How to Locate a Shower or Bathtub Leak

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

If your property has water damage, call us today!

Though some water leaks throughout your Florida home can be easy to spot, there are a vast amount of others that require more than a casual glance. A shower or bathtub leak, for example, can fall into the latter category, as there are a variety of places for leaks to emerge from in these areas. If you need help identifying a water leak in your shower, read on how to locate one without much hassle effectively. Once the source has been identified, contacting a trained water restoration team can ensure your home is cleared of any water damage, as well. 

Check the Common Sources First

Before tearing into the tile work or uprooting your tub, it pays to investigate the more apparent areas first. After a shower, inspect familiar sources such as the:

• Showerhead face,
• The O-ring between the showerhead and arm,
• Faucet handles, and the areas surrounding them, or
•  Caulking at the base or surrounding of a shower/tub combination.

Leak issues are generally noticeable in these spaces and can be more easily detected by sight after running water through your shower.

Have a Professional Inspect Your Shower Pan, Whether New or Old

A shower pan leak is another usual spot for an issue, especially in tiled shower designs. These leaks can start due to the pan being too old and faulty or merely due to a new one being installed incorrectly. Therefore, it pays to have someone inspect this space as a potential cause for any shower or bathtub leak.

Determine the Severity of the Issue By Searching the Levels Below

There’s no clearer indication of a bad water leak within your shower floor than through the ceiling or flooring directly below the shower itself. Look for signs of water damage or condensation on the ceiling beneath a second-story shower or throughout your crawl space below a first-floor shower.

When you’re hoping to eliminate a shower or bathtub leak in your Florida home, follow any of these efficient methods for a quick solo inspection before contacting a professional for further assistance.

9 Ways to Manage Mold

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1. Identify problem areas in your home and correct them. Preventing mold from growing or spreading might be as simple as ripping up carpet in a damp basement, installing mold-resistant products, or repairing damaged gutters.
   
   
2. Dry wet areas immediately. Mold can't grow without moisture, so tackle wet areas right away. 
   
   
3. Prevent moisture with proper ventilation. Make sure an activity as simple as cooking dinner, taking a shower, or doing a load of laundry doesn't invite mold by providing proper ventilation in your bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, and any other high-moisture area. 
   
   
4. Equip your home with mold-resistant products. Building a new home or renovating an old one? Use mold-resistant products like mold-resistant drywall or mold-resistant Sheetrock and mold inhibitors for paints. 
   
   
5. Monitor humidity indoors. The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30 and 60 percent. You can measure humidity with a moisture meter purchased from your local hardware store. 
   
   
6. Direct water away from your home. If the ground around your home isn't sufficiently sloped away from the foundation, water may collect there and seep into your crawlspace or basement.
   
   
7. Clean or repair roof gutters. Have your roof gutters cleaned regularly and inspected for damage. Repair them as necessary, and keep an eye out for water stains after storms that may indicate a leak.
   
   
8. Improve airflow in your home. Without adequate airflow in your home, excess moisture may appear on your walls, windows, and floors. To increase circulation, open doors between rooms, move furniture away from walls, and open doors to closets that may be colder than the rooms they're in. Let fresh air in to reduce moisture and keep mold at bay.
   
   
9. Keep mold off household plants. They're beautiful and help keep your indoor air clean — and mold loves them. The moist soil in indoor plants is a perfect breeding ground for mold, which may then spread to other areas of your house.

Protection From Wind Damage

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Have storm damage? We're here to help!

Many areas of the United States have experienced heavy winds and storms this season, and the strong, powerful winds can cause significant damage to your home. Wind damage can cause a range of destruction to your property, from broken windows and fallen tree branches to severe damage to the roof, garage, or car. It can happen from the strong wind or indirectly from the wind blowing debris into your house.

Wind Damage from Different Types of Storms

Thunderstorms are the most common source of wind and storm damage, but winds from hurricanes or tornadoes are stronger and can cause severe damage. It can produce many types of bad weather such as lightning, hail, tornadoes, straight-line winds, flooding, etc. Thunderstorms are responsible for wind damage cases in the U.S. However, storm damage repair may be costly for hurricane or tornado wind damage. Billions of dollars are spent on wind damage repair and storm damage restoration each year; understanding the nature of wind damage can help you limit the amount of damage to your property and save on restoration and repair costs.

It's important to know when a storm is approaching your area and what type of storm it is so you know the potential and level of damage to expect. These wind damage facts will help you better understand the potential for wind damage and how to prevent it. Here are some steps you can take to minimize the risk of damage to your home when severe weather strikes.

Preventing Wind and Storm Damage

Most wind damage starts by flying debris either from plants or other structures unsecured. If a storm is approaching your area, make sure any potential debris in your homes, such as patio furniture, toys, garbage cans, and other objects, are either secured or brought inside. Secure your doors and windows to help minimize the potential storm damage to the home.

Roof damage reduces during the construction phase when the roof deck, shingles, or membrane is applied over the decking. A well-designed roofing system will anchor the trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the building in a strong wind. Roofing material should latch to the deck.

Loosely connected shingles will lift from the deck. Siding damage reduces at the construction phase. Fastened siding isn't as likely to lift off a structure in strong wind. Building codes will likely direct the minimum standards for connections. You, your architect, or your contractor may decide to exceed these minimums for a stronger storm-resistant structure.

Falling trees and tree limbs are another significant type of damage to structures in a windstorm. Tree maintenance to remove dead limbs or identify and remove weakened trees will reduce the likelihood of structural damage. Mitigating damage after a storm closes any openings made in the structure by the wind. Roof openings and broken windows are the most common problem.

Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that cuts to size and nails over the opening. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of an emergency close-up. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed. Falling trees and tree limbs can open a structure with sudden violence. Tree on a structure is a serious personal and structural safety issue.

Trees, at times, won't shift positions. It can shift and cause serious injury to the unwary. Fallen trees may mask severe other safety issues, such as downed electrical wires. The wires may still be alive, and the tree itself energized. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

Suppose your home or business sustains wind damage during a storm. In that case, it is important to contact a storm damage restoration professional as soon as it is over to help limit and repair the damage. SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

5 Ways to Avoid Kitchen Hazards

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Many people in Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park love to cook. But even seasoned chefs sometimes make costly mistakes. Here are five helpful ways to avoid kitchen hazards, such as a drain clog or grease fire.

1. Keep Your Vents Clean

It's essential to keep the vent screens above your stove clean. Otherwise, grease can build up on the screen and inhibit ventilation, becoming a contributing factor in a kitchen fire. The grease buildup could even make a fire worse. 

2. Don't Leave Pans Unattended

Most cooks know never to lean a pan unattended on the stove. The pan could be knocked over, grease can splatter, or the food can be allowed to cook too long. Each of these things can be a fire hazard.

3. Don't Put Grease Down the Drain

When you're done cooking, it may be tempting to pour the hot grease down the drain. Built-up grease in a drain can lead to a drain clog and sink overflow. Instead, pour the grease into a container, allow it to cool, and then place it in the trash.

4. Wipe Out Greasy Pans Before Washing

Wipe out any remaining grease and food particles before washing your pans. This can help prevent buildup that may lead to a sink clog.

5. Call a Professional to Service Appliances

If you're having problems with your stove or drain, it may be time to call a professional. They will know how to fix the problem without causing a potential electrical fire. These can come from attempting to fix a broken stove or clogged dish disposal without the correct tools. If fire or flooding does occur, then a fire and water damage restoration service may help.

Following these tips can help you prevent problems like a drain clog or grease fire. Never leave your stove unattended when it's on, don't put grease down the drain, and call a professional if your kitchen appliances need maintenance. If a fire or flooding does happen in your kitchen, then a restoration professional may be able to help.

Eliminating Mold Growth Causes

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Call us today for a free estimate!

SERVPRO Remediates Mold Damage and Takes Steps to Prevent Future Mold Growth

A continuous state of elevated humidity is a primary cause of excessive microbial growth in Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park residences. It can quickly increase the amount of damage that follows. Other factors, such as the presence of absorbent materials in the home, can also play a role in how rapidly microbial growth occurs.

Whenever a residence in Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park sustains mold damage, one of the aspects examined inside the home includes water sources' presence. Leaky water lines, past flooding events, and saturated ground near the home can increase the amount of humidity the interior of the home experiences. SERVPRO technicians use moisture meters and other devices to locate the sources and areas where moisture accumulated. Once we locate these areas and sources, we can then resolve the situation that caused microbial growth to affect the home.

Mold remediation experts know that the existence of future invasive water can cause the microbial problem to return, rendering mold remediation efforts useless. Once we eliminate these sources, we can then begin removing mold-damaged materials, laundering and cleaning household items and furniture, and caring for the carpeting throughout the home. Walls that harbor mold, even if dormant, need cleaning and drying.

During our work, maintaining a set of controls to keep all mold contained safely affects our labor's overall outcome. This includes the use of plastic sheeting surrounding areas within the home, along with the use of our air scrubbers. Sending microbes outdoors helps keep them from entering other areas of your property.

However, ensuring that moisture sources no longer exist should not help keep old sources from returning in full force. Effectively starving microbes, their population growth stays under control. Once we complete our remediation work, diligent homeowners know to keep an eye out for leaking water lines, loose connections, and other sources of moisture. Microbes do not need a great deal of moisture to begin growing again and causing future problems.

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is always ready to serve those in our community. Call our 24-hour service line at (727) 521-2562. Your family does not need to live with the effects of mold damage in your home.

When This Doctor Needed Help He Called SERVPRO of Montgomery County

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

If your commercial property experiences fire damage, call SERVPRO today!

A Doctor's Office. A Fire. Two Things That Don't Mix.

Fortunately, no one was injured. But we needed to help this practice set up a temporary office so that the doctors could continue to see patients. We know that in a situation like this, time is of the essence. We got the call and responded with plenty of crew to get the damaged contents out and assess what could be cleaned and salvaged and what needed to be discarded. Contents that sustained only light soot damage were quickly and thoroughly cleaned and moved to their temporary office space so that their business could resume somewhat normal activities. Closely working with the client and the insurance company, we packed contents and began the cleaning process at our warehouse and on-site to get their business back up and running as soon as possible.

As boxes of contents were cleaned and ready to put back into use, we transported finished items to their temporary office space. Contents ranged from waiting room furniture and files to high-end instruments and tools needing fine intricate cleaning. Meanwhile, our crew was busy doing a necessary demo in the building areas that had to be removed due to the fire damage. Debris hauling and cleaning the entire structure to remove soot that had traveled through the entire building was ongoing until that portion of the job was complete. Ducts of the HVAC system also needed cleaning as the smoke and soot traveled through these systems as a means of escape. After demo and cleaning, we readied the building for a contractor to come in and build-back the structure to make the offices operational again.

In a fire of this magnitude, the project manager needs to oversee all activities to thoroughly complete the job. And as you can imagine, this process takes months to complete. We know that situations like these require constant communication with our clients throughout the process. It is always satisfying to see a job of this magnitude come to completion. Throughout this process, our goal is to minimize the stress for our customers and get them back to normal business as smoothly and quickly as possible.

When unfortunate circumstances require our services, we do our best to exceed customer expectations. We are always here to help.

Storm vs. Flood

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Property owners may have a hard time differentiating storm damage from flood damage. Commercial properties can sustain water damage from either source. There are a few significant differences to keep in mind that may help you manage these risks. 

The most general distinction is that stormwater comes from above, whereas flood water overspills natural bodies or watercourses and covers at least two acres of ordinarily dry land. Storm damage to a commercial property may originate from a variety of causes, such as:

• High winds
• Heavy rain
• Hurricanes
• Snow
• Tornadoes

Most business insurance plans protect from damage caused by storms. Property owners need additional coverage to offset the expenses of flood damage. If your property is located on a flood plain, you should make sure you carry the policies necessary to protect your investment.

Flooding occurs when water overflows a body of water or watercourse such as:

• Creeks
• Dams
• Lakes
• Storm-water channels

For water to be considered a flood, it must cover two acres and affect at least two properties. Suppose a commercial property is located in a high-risk zone and the owner has a mortgage from an insured and federally regulated lender. In that case, he or she is required to maintain flood insurance. Damage resulting from either flooding or storms can cause severe problems and should be planned for, prevented, and handled as soon as possible. Regardless of a moisture source, the risk of mold and other secondary damage within a building can be just as severe.

Restoring Damage From Storms and Floods

Restoration specialists can help property owners determine the precise causes of damage and the best solutions. If a commercial property in Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park experiences flood damage or sustains damage during a storm, contact a commercial damage restoration company as soon as possible.

Why Professional Mold Remediation Is Necessary

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park is the right restoration company for you!

Professional Remediation Vs. DIY for Your Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park Home

Many Florida homeowners would argue that the methods of repairing and restoring damage to their homes are as effective as the professionals could produce. While there might be instances this could be as effective or more money-saving, mold remediation is not one of these situations. There are some things that every homeowner should know about the differences between DIY mold removal and professional remediation work for their property.

One of the first concerns about mold damage that any Florida homeowner should have is the extent of the damage that they are currently facing. Even a small colony can spread quickly and pose a significant risk to both the property's structural integrity and those that get exposed to the colony. This safety concern is one of the defining factors that should deter homeowners from DIY removal. Without the appropriate personal protective equipment and training, removal efforts could cause acute health effects.

DIY approaches encourage homeowners to use a harsh detergent like bleach and scrub over present colonies to remove them, but this can prove problematic for multiple reasons. The first of these concerns is that bleach can react adversely with certain mold types and become more volatile. This is less effective because this approach only takes off surface mold and does not remove the entire hyphae like the equipment our SERVPRO Franchise professionals use can.

Another concern is the spread of the organism. Homeowners do not have the available equipment to contain a spreading mold colony as our SERVPRO Franchise professionals do. With air scrubbers, hydroxyl generators, and physical plastic sheeting barriers, we can effectively prevent the organism's spread to new areas of the home. At the same time, remediation and mold removal efforts get underway.

3 Facts About Commercial Black Water

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know these facts?

Your St. Petersburg home commercial building can be affected by flooding from several sources. Water damage can include warped flooring and moldy drywall, but the more immediate issue caused by flooding is the influx of contaminated water. If your business has recently been damaged by flooding, it can help understand how this type of water can cause long-term damage and what you can do to mitigate it. 

1. It Can Contain Dangerous Chemicals 

Environmental experts often call contaminated water that stems from flooding Category 3 or “black water.” This means the water did not come from a sterile source and may contain various hazardous components, including harsh sewer and lawn chemicals that entered the water during flooding. These chemicals can make the water dangerous to touch, so calling in flood damage and cleanup service is the safest way to remove it. 

2. It May Make You Sick 

Category 3 water damage can be dangerous in more than one way. For example, standing black water can grow microbes that may cause a variety of illnesses. Urine and feces may also be present, even if they are not immediately visible, so it is wise to avoid this type of water entirely and wait for professional cleanup services to arrive. 

3. Acting Quickly Can Be Essential 

Because contaminated water can become more dangerous the longer it sits, it is good to call in a cleanup crew right away. This can be important even if you believe the worst of the damage has already been done. Having the water removed may reduce the chances of long-term issues with your building’s affected floors and walls and prevent mold growth, which can be difficult to treat once it takes hold. 

Blackwater damage can harm your Florida commercial building in several ways. However, when you know its dangers and how to combat them, you may be able to prevent the worst of the destruction. Call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park.

Smoke Detectors Are Important

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

We've learned fire safety and what to do when you hear a smoke detector first in school – and it's repeated to us every year until we go to middle school. And – we've been in the home when the batteries run out of the smoke alarm or every time we cook, it sets off the alarm because it's a little too close to the stove, so we take down the smoke alarm.

We know this is bad, and we should think twice before taking out the batteries. Why? Because fire detectors work. According to The National Fire Protection Association, three out of five home fire deaths come from homes without a smoke alarm. 

So, be sure to check your smoke detectors once a year, replace the batteries and make sure each fire detector is working in your home – they save lives after all! 

For all your fire damage cleaning needs, give us a call today at (727) 521-2562!

Kitchen Fire Tips

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Between 2012-2016 the NFPA found that cooking was the leading cause of fires within the United States. It’s important to remember safety when cooking in our homes. Don’t leave stove tops or ovens unattended, and if you have to leave the room to host guests or for another reason, be sure to take an oven mitt with you to remind you that something is cooking on the stove or in the oven.

If you happen to have a grease fire in your home, do not pour water on it! It may seem elementary, but sometimes, you can do silly things when you’re panicked by a fire in your kitchen. Instead, cover the fire with a cookie sheet to suffocate it. If it’s a small fire, you can also use salt to put it out as well. Make sure to always have a fire extinguisher on hand just if a fire breaks out in your kitchen.

For all your fire damage cleaning needs, give us a call today at (727) 521-2562.

Common Water Issues For Businesses

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

For a commercial property owner in Florida, unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, water damage professional can help you assess, clean, and repair damages from any flooding or leaks you may have. Here are a few of the most common water problems a business may face, from leaking pipes to foundation cracks.

Pipe Breaks 

A pipe break can occur in several ways. Over time, the pipe can age and loosen in its fittings, or extensive use can lead to pinhole leaks. Extreme heat or cold can affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and burst.

Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. Water in blocked pipes can take the shortest path regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages occur, including the buildup of water minerals over time inside a pipe or someone pouring a solidifying material, such as plaster or grease, down a drain.

Weather

Extreme weather conditions can lead to leaking pipes. Cold temperatures can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand. The expansion puts pressure on the pipe and can create a crack or cause it to burst. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional what preventive measures to take.

Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to issues such as mold. Assess any cracks quickly to determine the best course of action.

Water damage can happen to a commercial property. Fortunately, a professional can fix the damage caused by leaking pipes, foundation cracks, a backed-up toilet, or weather and help you repair your property.

Storm Restoration Services

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Water restoration services are needed in water damage caused by floodwater, roof leak, ice damage, oozing of groundwater, leaking or bursting of frozen pipes, and ice dam bursting. Like SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park, water restoration companies develop various storm remediation services to ensure successful home restoration tasks. During the home restoration process, the storm restoration companies concentrate on storm damages such as roof damages that may cause a roof leak hence the need for roof repair. Hail damage and wind damage may, for instance, cause roof damage.

Ice damming is also problematic in cold places like Tundra that forms an ice dam that can burst at any moment, causing ice damage to your property or home. When frozen pipes burst, they may cause flooding in homes, hence needing clean water before any damage occurs. On the other hand, river flooding can be minimized by constructing a flood pump that helps in the water restoration process when conducting home restoration exercises.

Ice damage, hail damage, hurricane damage, ice damming (forming ice dam), groundwater bursting, wind damage, and floodwater occur naturally. As a result, wind damage can also be resolved through storm remediation. Hurricane damage is particularly common, and its impact may be overwhelming. These damages may result in roof damage that calls for roof repairs to avoid a roof leak. Call SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park today at (727) 521-2562.

The Nature of Smoke and Soot Dictate Clean Up Practices After St. Petersburg Fire Damage

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

Professionals Who Mitigate Fire Damage in St. Petersburg Describe the Different Types of Smoke

Suppose you ever suffer from a structural blaze inside your St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park home. In that case, it is always smart to contact a professional restoration company such as SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park immediately. Our fire damage restoration crews know the best techniques to refinish and restore burnt and soiled items to prevent replacement. When dealing with burnt materials, smoke, which consists of partially combusted particles, can add to the extent of your problems. 

When mitigating any fire damage in St. Petersburg, our SERVPRO technicians know to use different chemicals and techniques when removing residues left behind by various smoke types. In most situations, smoke, and the soils it leaves behind can be classified into one of the following four categories or a combination. Knowing what type of smoke was present, we can pick the best method to remove soot residues on the various surfaces of your building materials and contents. 

1. Dry Smoke

Most fires go through stages of creating both wet and dry smoke. However, usually, fires will have more of one type than the other. Dry smoke gets created by fast-burning, oxygen-rich burns. Dry smoke is also usually created when organic materials like wood, paper, or natural fabrics burn.

2. Wet Smoke

Whether a fire produces a majority of wet or dry smoke depends on the amount of oxygen present, the combustion rate, and the type of substance that is burning. When the fire is starved by oxygen and burns at a lower temperature, it produces wet smoke. Wet smoke is also created when synthetic materials such as rubber or plastic burn. Wet smoke usually adheres stronger to most surfaces and is difficult to remove and clean. 

3. Protein Residues

Protein residues can be found any time products such as meat, poultry, or fish burn. When a fire starts inside your kitchen, there is a good chance that protein residues can exist. These residues leave behind a yellow or amber discoloration, but they can sometimes be clear and hard to see on a surface. Protein residues leave behind strong odors making deodorization the biggest issue when dealing with them. 

4. Fuel Oil Soots

Furnace puff-backs can create fuel oil residues that consist of dust particles from the ventilation system and fuel oils that did not burn all the way. This type of soot usually has a gray or black color and can consist of large or small particles. Often, the electrically charged ions form spiderweb-like formations in corners that can smear readily if not vacuumed and sponged off correctly.

If a fire ever ignites inside your St. Petersburg home, it is wise to contact SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park at (727) 521-2562.