Fire Commercial Cleanup Process

10/7/2022 (Permalink)

Call your local SERVPRO for fire damage restoration.

Fire Commercial Cleanup Process

Fire damage is a complex issue, but it's something we see every day. As professional cleaners and restoration specialists, we know the best steps to follow when dealing with fire clean-up.

Assessment

Once the fire department has extinguished the fire and called in the clean-up crew, it's time to do an assessment of what needs to be done. The damage caused by each fire is different and will vary based on factors like whether it was electrical or accidental, how long it burned for, how much water was used in trying to put out the flames (especially if they were directly applied), how large your commercial space is, what kind of materials were involved in the fire itself (such as wood) and whether there was any smoke or soot damage from the smoke detectors going off during evacuation.

You may have physical damage such as charred walls or ceilings; melted carpets; damaged machinery; warped floors or air ducts due to heat exposure. You may also have emotional trauma from having watched something horrible happen right before your eyes—or even financial consequences if you need extensive repairs done quickly but don't have enough money saved up yet!

Cleaning and Sanitizing

Cleaning and sanitizing are critical parts of the fire damage restoration process. Cleaning is the process of removing soot, debris, and other foreign materials from the structure. Sanitizing involves using chemicals to kill bacteria and fungi in a structure that has been exposed to water damage.

It's important for both cleaning and sanitizing to be done by trained professionals with experience in this industry because it can be very dangerous for people who aren't trained properly. The use of improper chemicals could lead to further damage or health problems if they are not used correctly.

Restoration

Restoration is the process of returning a property to its preloss condition. It includes cleaning, repairing, replacing, and restoring damaged property.

Restoration can be done by a professional restoration company that has experience in these types of situations. The cleanup process is the first step in getting back to normal after a fire. A professional restoration company will make sure that you’re able to use your home again as soon as possible so you can get back on your feet after losing everything due to a fire loss.

Fire damage is complex, but it can be fixed.

It takes a lot of work to clean up after a fire. In addition to the smoke damage that you'll notice right away, there's also hidden water damage caused by fire extinguishers and hoses used by firefighters in the cleanup process. This additional damage needs to be addressed before you can feel comfortable moving back in. But don't worry, we're going to walk you through all the steps required for complete restoration!

The good news is that your homeowners' insurance policy will cover any structural repairs required after a fire has occurred at your home or business; however, most policies do not cover any personal belongings lost during these events (unless they were stolen). So, if this happens—and we hope it never does—don't expect help from your insurance company! They won't pay for new furniture or clothing items destroyed by smoke damage either... so don't forget about those expenses when calculating how much money will come out of pocket when cleaning up after an incident like this one.

Fire damage is complex, but it can be fixed. The fire cleanup process starts with an assessment of the property and its contents to determine what needs to be cleaned and how much it will cost. If your fire damage repair is extensive, your insurance company will reimburse you for the cost of cleaning services up to a certain amount depending on the type of policy you have. We would be happy to help you determine if this applies to your case!

What To Expect During Fire Restoration

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides fire, water and mold damage restoration services. We are ready to help you, call us!

What To Expect During The Fire Restoration Process

A fire in your Palm Springs North, FL, business is a trying time. Along with trying to keep operations running smoothly, the smoke damage and soot damage need to be addressed. Even if the affected area is relatively small, there may be lingering issues if cleanup and repairs aren’t properly done.

Call the Experts

Getting back to business is the top priority, so it is recommended to obtain the services of a professional fire damage restoration company to handle the work. Below is what you can expect from a licensed company:

• The property will be inspected thoroughly, including potential hidden smoke damage. After the inspection, an assessment will be made detailing the work required to get the business back to like it was.
• Depending on the extent of the damage, windows, walls and the roof will be boarded up or tarped to prevent secondary damage.
• The cleanup process then begins. This includes not only the damage from the fire but also potential water damage incurred as the fire was extinguished.
• The final step is restoration. This may include replacing carpet, drywall and paint. Extensive damage may require major repairs to ensure the integrity of the structure.

Smoke Cleaning

While it may be tempting to tackle fire damage on your own, there is typically hidden damage that may linger for years. Choosing a professional to complete the cleanup means peace of mind that any odors will be eradicated. A licensed contractor will have the industrial-grade tools and expertise to remove stains, odors and soot from carpets, upholstery and curtains, as well as equipment and other items.

While a fire may be a devastating situation, there are experts who have the knowledge to get the property back to what it was before the loss. From smoke damage to mold growth and more, using professional services means knowing the repairs are being done right.

How To Use a Fire Extinguisher

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

From a small kitchen fire to an electrical fire, a fire extinguisher is a vital tool to keep the flames from spreading in your business.

What Is the Best Way To Use A Fire Extinguisher?

From a small kitchen fire to an electrical fire, a fire extinguisher is a vital tool to keep the flames from spreading in your Miami Lakes, FL, business. Since this first line of defense is so important, it is also imperative that people know how to use it and that the equipment is properly maintained.

Remember PASS

Luckily, regardless of the brand or class of the extinguisher, they are all designed for easy operation. The key is to remember the word PASS.

• Pull: There is a pin at the top of the extinguisher that ensures the handle isn’t accidentally pressed. In an emergency, pull the pin.
  
• Aim: Maintain a safe distance from the flames and aim the nozzle toward the bottom of the fire.
  
• Squeeze: To discharge the extinguishing agent, squeeze the handles.
• Sweep: Use a side-to-side sweeping motion to extinguish the flames.

If the fire continues to spread, evacuate and get help. It’s better to have a professional fire damage restoration clean up the aftermath than to have anyone get injured.

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance and Tips

Knowing how vital it is to have an extinguisher on-site, it’s important to ensure that is easily accessible and taken care of. When an emergency happens, you want the confidence to know that no one has to go searching for it or move things around to access it. As for maintenance, it is ideal to regularly check the pressure gauge and inspect the unit for any dents, rust or damage. The hose should also be looked over for cracks. A general rule of thumb is to replace the equipment every

12 years.

Every business needs to have a fire extinguisher available. While hopefully it won't ever be needed, it is important that everyone knows how to use it and that the fire-fighting tool is regularly inspected.

Should Discolored Ceiling Tiles Be Cause for Concern?

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Before you begin replacing damaged ceiling tiles, have a mold remediation specialist inspect the entire area for mold growth.

Should Discolored Ceiling Tiles Be Worried About?

Installing ceiling tiles in your commercial property is a sound investment, because tiles are durable and require little maintenance. One consideration that should not be forgotten, however, is that tile mold can grow over time. That’s why it’s critical to conduct routine maintenance on your ceiling tiles.

Items To Look for When Inspecting Ceiling Tiles

Set up a routine preventive maintenance inspection to look for signs of wear and other damages, including:

• Discoloration - If you spot any tile discoloration, it’s time to inspect further.
• Stained ceiling tiles usually indicate that water is leaking from the roofing materials.
• Warping - Warped tiles are another telltale sign of water damage.
• Rusted and bent grids - These signs indicate further damage beyond the surface.

Dirt and dust - Dust and dirt are the perfect ingredients to encourage tile mold to grow. Keep tiles clean by wiping them with a wet cloth, along with a small amount of cleaner, if needed.

Situations That Require Repairs

If damaged or discolored tiles are discovered during maintenance inspections, repairs or replacements may be necessary. Before you go about the task of replacing any tiles, however, contact a mold remediation specialist to inspect the entire area for mold growth. Professionals are trained to know what to look for and how to best remedy the situation.

When you are ready to replace the damaged tiles, make sure the same pattern is still in stock. It’s a good idea to order enough replacement tiles for future use. If you don’t feel confident installing the replacements, calling a professional will ensure the job is done right.

Preventive Measures To Reduce Risks

Make sure to keep the air ducts of your HVAC system clean. This reduces the dust and mold emitted into the air from the heating and cooling system.

You can reduce the risk of tile mold in your Palm Springs North, FL, facility by following a few easy instructions.

What To Do When Your Basement Floods

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Before a flood occurs, make sure your insurance coverage includes flooded basements.

What Should You Do If Your Basement Floods?

A basement flood in Miami Lakes, FL, can be stressful. Building owners should know what to do when flooding occurs. You must remove the water, repair damage, prevent mold growth and file an insurance claim.

Causes

Flooding can happen for a number of reasons:

• Rain
• Melting snow or ice
• Broken pipes
• Overflow from appliances

If the flooding is not being caused by environmental factors, you should shut off the water source as quickly as possible to minimize damage.

Removing the Water

When your basement is flooded, you need to remove the water as quickly as possible. You should open doors and windows to allow air to circulate. For small amounts of water, you may be able to use towels to soak it up. For large amounts of water, you will likely need a pump or industrial vacuum. Always check that the electricity in the area is shut off before making contact with the water.

Repairing Damage and Preventing Mold Growth

Water can damage building materials, such as wood or drywall. It can also damage electrical wiring. A water damage restoration service in Miami Lakes, FL, should inspect the area and repair any damage. They will also make sure everything is fully dried and then clean the area with antibacterial sprays that prevent mold growth.

Filing an Insurance Claim

Familiarize yourself with you insurance coverage to be sure a basement flood is covered before an emergency occurs if possible. After the flood, make a list of belongings that were damaged and take photos of any damage for your insurance provider. Contact your agent as soon as possible to begin filing a claim.

If you experience a basement flood, you can minimize damage if you know what to do. Remove the water from the basement, repair damage, prevent mold growth and file an insurance claim as soon as possible. Before a flood occurs, make sure your insurance coverage includes flooded basements.

3 Steps To Clean Up a Roof Leak

2/12/2022 (Permalink)

The storm may be moving in your direction and when it is called SERVPRO. We are available 24 hours a day to help protect and restore your property.

How To Fix A Roof Leak In 3 Easy Steps

A severe storm or high winds can damage the roof of a building in Miami Lakes, FL. Damaged roofing materials make a roof leak more likely. Here are three steps that building owners and managers can take to limit the extent of damage and prevent storm or water damage from leading to secondary problems, such as mold.

1. Tarp Over the Roof Until Repaired

As soon as it becomes apparent that a roof is leaking, a building owner or manager should try to determine the source of the leak. Hire roof damage mitigation experts to tarp over the damaged area to prevent additional moisture from penetrating to the interior of the structure.

2. Mitigate Interior Damage

A roof leak can damage materials such as insulation and ceilings. Fiberglass insulation is not designed to withstand moisture and will need to be torn out and replaced. Ceilings may also need to be torn out. It is a good idea to hire an experienced storm damage mitigation and restoration company to take all of the necessary steps toward mitigation to prevent more serious problems down the line.

3. Repair the Roof and Restore Damage

Hire a roofer to repair roof damage. It may take some time for the portions of the interior exposed to water to dry out. Do not rush restoration prior to drying, as this may allow conditions conducive to mold growth to persist. Once the affected area is dry, restoration experts should install new insulation and replace all of the damaged building materials.

These three steps can limit the extent of damage resulting from a roof leak at a commercial building in Miami Lakes, FL. It is important to tarp over a damaged roof as soon as possible to prevent water from causing more interior damage. Regularly inspect a roof after severe storms to look for missing shingles and other indications of damage.

Common Water Issues for Businesses

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

As water damage specialists, we are prepared and ready to serve you at a moment's notice. Here is an example of how we work for business.

Water Issues In The Workplace

For a commercial property owner in Hialeah, FL, unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, a 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.

1. Pipe Breaks

A pipe break can occur in a number of 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 also affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and eventually burst.

2. Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can even lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. When a pipe is blocked, water can take the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages can occur from a number of things, 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.

3. Weather

Extreme weather conditions can also 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 even cause it to burst altogether. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional about what preventive measures to take.

4. Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can also become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues such as mold. Any cracks should be investigated and assessed as soon as possible 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, backed up toilet, or weather, and help you repair your property.

FAQS on Mold Growth

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Palm Springs North, FL.

Mold Growth Frequently Asked Questions

When mold growth is discovered in your facility in Palm Springs North, FL, you are overwhelmed with questions and you must act immediately. After you call the mold remediation professionals, you start to think of all the things you don't know and wished you had asked initially. While the experts do the hard work, here are some common questions and answers about mold:

1. Where does mold live? Mold lives wherever there is water, oxygen and organic material.

2. How do I prevent mold growth? Repair leaks and fix water damage quickly. High humidity (more than 45%) is enough moisture for mold colonies to grow.

3. How fast does mold grow? Infestations can take place in 48-72 hours.

4. Why does mold smell? Gases given off during mold digestive processes are smelly mycotoxins, but the presence of mycotoxins depends on the type of mold and the material being consumed.

5. Why didn't bleach work to clean mold? Bleach only removes stains and does not kill deep mold.

6. If spores are everywhere, are they in my building? Yes, spores are airborne and travel into your building through the HVAC system, windows, doors and on clothing.

7. How do I get rid of spores? You can do some regular cleaning (vacuum, HVAC cleaning, and carpet cleaning) to prevent spore buildup and bring spores levels down to normal.

8. What if the cleanup process causes spores to be released throughout my building? Spores naturally exist in the air, but professionals set up containment areas and use air scrubbers to manage indoor spore levels while cleaning.

9. Do I have to throw away special personal items? It depends on the material involved, but restoration specialists know how to clean different types of materials and will advise if any items can't be saved.

Now you are more knowledgeable about the situation and prepared for the work that will be done. Thankfully, you have professional remediators to get the mold cleaned quickly and safely, but you also know how to manage your building environment to prevent mold growth from happening again.

Prevent Building Water Leaks

7/10/2021 (Permalink)

Leaking pipes can cause major damage to your commercial building.

Protect Your Building Against Water Leaks

In a commercial setting, the function of a building’s plumbing system can mean the difference between conducting business as usual or shutting down temporarily.

If that business is a restaurant, service company or industrial facility that uses a lot of water and needs reliable drainage, a plumbing problem can sideline your money-making activities for days. Even retail stores and offices can be hampered by issues with water availability, drainage, restroom access, or sewage disposal.

Plumbing emergencies can be prevented by keeping the building’s plumbing working properly and reliably by monitoring the system and watching for problems before they develop. Here are some tips to help protect against problems:

Check for leaks: Do a visual inspection of the system to check for leaks.

Test faucets: Turn on faucets to check for leaks around the handles or at the connections to the water supply pipes

Check for corrosion: Look for signs of corrosion and related damage around pipes and pipe fittings.

Test the stability of plumbing fixtures: Make sure faucets, toilets and other plumbing fixtures are solidly attached to the floor, wall or other location.

Check water pressure: Make sure the pressure of the water coming out of your pipes is sufficient for your plumbing needs.

Check all drains for proper function: Water should travel easily down the drain pipes of your commercial building plumbing system.

Test toilets and check flushing mechanisms: Make sure each toilet flushes properly and that all internal components are in good repair

Inspect for visible damage: Carefully look at the plumbing pipes, fixtures, tiling, caulking and other elements to make sure nothing is damaged.

SERVPRO of Miami Lakes has the training, experience, and equipment to handle any size of commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

Flood Prevention Tips For Towns and Buildings

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Floodwaters in a Pembroke Pines, FL building

Flood Prevention Tips For Towns and Buildings

All the scientific evidence points to an unstable climate pattern in the future. For example, a high tide can cause the same amount of flooding as an intense hurricane from 50 years ago. That’s why people need to up their flood prevention game, especially those living in Pembroke Pines, FL  and other flood-prone areas in the nation.
Here are some solutions for urban flooding:

• Use permeable sidewalks and gardens
• Separate rainwater from the sewer system
• Replace sea walls with waterfront parks
  
  

Sustainable Drainage

Towns are made of so much concrete that nearly all downpours result in flooding as everyone directs their stormwater to the same sewer system. To solve this issue, people should use permeable materials when building sidewalks, driveways, and gardens. That will reduce the amount of wastewater and support plant life as well.

Separate Stormwater From Sewer Lines

When floodwater gets into the sewer lines, the result is an overwhelmed wastewater treatment system. That could result in a nasty sewer backup, which translates to an emergency flood cleaning exercise. For this reason, some towns have a separate stormwater system that is designed to relieve the sewer drain. That opens up the possibility of water harvesting and also plays a significant role in flood prevention.

Replace Sea Walls with Waterfronts Parks

The Dutch have always advocated living with water instead of trying to keep it out, and they are right. Sea walls cost a fortune, and they seem to be one of the leading causes of the dwindling turtle populations. Waterfront parks, on the other hand, are eco-friendly in every way. They also give the engineers a chance to decide where to direct the excess water.
It’s no secret that flood prevention efforts will become harder in the future as the ocean rises and the weather becomes more unpredictable. For now, everybody should hope for the best and plan for the worst.

What You Need To Know About Mold and That Musty Smell

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

When you notice mold growth on a commercial property, contact SERVPRO of Miami Lakes.

If you’ve noticed a damp, musty smell in your commercial property, you may be concerned about mold and the presence of mycotoxins. The good news is that not all molds are toxigenic, and even when they are, there is no real data to support their connection to anything worrisome. In the majority of cases, the mold you find only poses a threat to secondary water damage in your property, which is a good reason to address it right away.

Understanding Mold

To get a handle on what you’re dealing with, here are a few basics you should know about mold:

• It’s a type of fungi whose purpose is to decompose dead organic matter.
  
• It needs water, oxygen, a nutrient source and temperatures between 40-100 degrees Fahrenheit to grow.
  
• The musty odor you smell comes from MVOCs — microbial volatile organic compounds — that are naturally occurring, and in some cases, due to mycotoxins.
  
• The color of mold is influenced by its nutrient source and how long the colony has been there.

Taking Action

Mold can continue to spread unless these three things are addressed:

• All existing mold is completely removed and disposed of properly.
  
• All nutrient sources (wet, damaged materials) are removed and disposed of properly.
  
• Moisture levels in the space are returned to a healthy level.
  
  

Mold remediation specialists address all these issues by utilizing years of knowledge and experience coupled with state-of-the-art tools. During cleanup, they will use HEPA air filtration systems to scrub the air clean and high-powered dehumidifiers to remove all excess moisture. They can also get rid of the moldy smell and show you exactly what you can do to keep it from coming back.
Although musty smells and the presence of mold in your property in Hialeah, FL, isn't ideal, you don't have to worry too much about mycotoxins. Swift removal of the offending material is your first priority, then all you need to do is take care of whatever is causing the dampness and moisture.

Recovering From a Business Fire: 3 Types of Damage To Expect

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Soot and smoke damage in Miami Lakes, FL

What Type Of Damage To Expect After A Fire

When a fire tears through your Miami Lakes, FL business, the aftermath can be devastating. Assessing fire damage can be difficult when you first enter the business once the blaze is out, and you may face problems you did not anticipate. Learning what type of damage to expect after a fire occurs may help you recover more quickly.

1. Smoke Damage
Even smaller fires can cause a variety of damage, including that caused by smoke. Not only does smoke leave soot behind on building materials, office equipment and inventory, it also leaves behind an unpleasant charred odor that might be difficult to get rid of. Smoky smells might linger for months after a fire, especially if you try to cover it with air fresheners that only last a few hours. If your customers notice this odor, they may not return and choose to take their business to a competitor.

2. Water Damage
You may not think about any type of water damage associated with fire, but larger fires require a great deal of water to ensure they are doused completely. The water from a high-pressure fire hose can spread water across multiple floors and soak the contents of almost every room. You can consult a fire restoration and mitigation service to assist you with water cleanup.

3. Secondary Damage
The aftermath of fire might come with unexpected secondary damage, such as those caused by water and smoke. For example, standing water from fire hoses may cause mold to develop as quickly as 48 hours later. Certain types of fungi, such as black mold, are especially quick to develop and can affect building materials, carpeting and stored goods.
No matter its size, a fire can seriously affect your Miami Lakes, FL business and cause downtime and profit losses. Understanding the type of fire damage you might face in the aftermath may help you bounce back quickly and give you the confidence to move forward with repairs and restoration.

What Every Business Owner Needs To Know About Making a Business Continuity Plan

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

It is useful to prepare a business continuity plan ahead of time

A business continuity plan, or emergency response plan, can be an essential component for helping a business stay afloat in difficult times. This document exists to lay out each step that must be taken to ensure continued smooth operation of your business under a variety of circumstances that might otherwise interrupt it. To learn how to protect your Pembroke Pines, FL, business in the event of a disaster, you must first know how to create this plan.

What Could Go Wrong

It is useful to prepare a business continuity plan ahead of time to deal with a variety of possible events, such as:

• Flood damage
• Hail damage
• Wind damage
• Fire damage
• Scheduled maintenance and utility work
• Pandemics or other natural disasters
  
  

What To Include
Make sure your plan covers all plausible interruptions to your business so that you aren't left scrambling in the event of bad luck. For example, if you work out of a building with plumbing that is prone to leaking or old pipes that might burst, make sure that you have the number of your preferred water damage repair specialists ready to go.

When To Start
In general, the sooner you begin working on your emergency response plan, the better. It is hard to put a value on the peace of mind it can give to business owners to know that they are prepared for any eventuality, and because disasters often strike without warning, it is best to create your plan as soon as possible. Once your plan is ready, it is a good practice to check in with the details every so often to ensure that your information is current.
Business owners do not want to think about unfortunate circumstances interrupting their work for any length of time. The beauty of a business continuity plan is, once it is complete, you need not worry as much about the future.

Tips for Handling a Flood at Your Business

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

A flooded business can be very daunting

Water Damage Tips

A flooded business can be very daunting, particularly when it is unexpected, like a pipe burst or sudden storm. You may be stuck between waiting for things to dry and needing to clean up so you can reopen. This is extremely frustrating. Here are some helpful water damage tips to get you started in this troubling time.

Make Sure It Is Safe

Safety should be the first thing on your mind. Flooding, no matter what the cause, can be dangerous. You should do a safety check before attempting any form of clean up or water restoration. To do this, check that:

• The power is off
  
• There is no sewage or chemicals in the water
  
• There are no damaged wires visible
  
• All of the equipment is unplugged
  
• The exterior foundation is not cracked or collapsing
  
  
  

Electrical and sewer hazards present a significant danger.

Take Pictures or Video

Before you follow any cleaning tips, be sure to take a lot of pictures of the flooding while the water is still present and during cleanup. You may need them for insurance or proof of the extent of the damage.

Call the Appropriate People

You need to call your insurance company, landlord and a water damage restoration company in Hialeah, FL. Each may give you agency-specific water damage tips and help you through the process of cleaning up the water.

Remove the Water Using Buckets or a Wet Dry Vac

Your first step in cleaning up is to get as much of the water out as possible. You can do this with buckets, mops and wet-dry vacuums.

Open Windows

Opening any windows and doors can help with the drying process. It will also help to prevent mold and mildew from growing.

From this point, you should consult with a professional water cleanup company for damage tips. Before following their advice, speak with your insurance agent. They may have a different process.

4 Signs of a Behind-the-Wall Water Leak

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

The longer the leak has been there, the more damage it will cause and the more costly it will be to remedy the situation

Four Signs There Is a Water Leak Behind Your Wall

A water leak is never expected for a business owner in Miami Lakes, FL. It can be pricey, especially if the leak has escaped detection for a long time. Here are four signs that there is a water leak behind your wall:

1. Damp Floor
A damp floor may be the first noticeable sign that you have a leaking pipe behind your wall. The floor will be consistently damp, or may even puddle.

2. Wall or Ceiling Stains
You may notice discoloration of your wall or ceiling. This water damage means that the leak is significant enough or has been there long enough to soak through. This is likely to eventually lead to the growth of mold and/or mildew on your wall.

3. Musty Odor
Moisture behind your walls will inevitably result in mold if it is there long enough. Since mold can start growing within 48 hours of a water leak, it can be a big problem by the time you notice that there’s an issue. Mold will emit a musty odor. One way to check for mold is by smelling electrical outlets, since they provide an opening to the inside of the wall.

4. Water Bill Increase
As a business owner, you may not be involved with the utility bills first-hand, but a spike in the cost of water for your business over a short period of time is a reason for concern. It could mean that you have a significant leak such as a pipe break behind your walls. The increase in your water bill could, financially, be the most critical factor of all.
When you have a water leak in the wall for a prolonged period of time, the wall doesn’t have a chance to dry. The problem continues to get worse. It’s best to hire remediation experts who can do a thorough job of finding the leak and quickly resolving all issues involved. 

What To Do After a Fire

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers board up services in Palm Springs North, FL

What To Do After a Fire

Fire restoration techniques can be used to rebuild, repair, and restore your property after a fire. You want to get things rolling as quickly as possible since few things can put a stop to your business like a fire. In addition, the fire could have left you vulnerable to additional damage from storms or looters. Luckily, by following a few simple steps, you can soon be on your way to business as usual.

1. Call Insurance Agent

If it is safe to do so, survey the damage so that you can explain it to your fire insurance company. If you choose to enter the area, be sure the structure is sound and that you are not in any danger. If in doubt, wait for the professionals to do an assessment. During the fire restoration process, restorers generally survey the damage and report their findings to your insurance company.

2. Do Not Touch

You need to leave everything in place. Do not try to clean the carpet or walls yourself while you wait for the cleanup crew to get onsite. Doing so could increase the damage and make smoke cleaning more difficult. If the building is wet from fighting the fire, do not turn on any electrical equipment or lighting. The wiring could have sustained damage, increasing the risk of electrical shock.

3. Board Up Services

Before beginning the restoration process, your team of specialists will board up your building to protect it from further damage. They may use tarps or wood over openings to keep it secure.
When you work with a professional fire restoration company in Palm Springs North, FL, they will get your business back to normal as quickly as they can, allowing you to resume operations. Professionals will use their expertise to clean soot from your building, remove smoke odors, and repair or replace any structural items that sustained damage.

Tips for Cleaning Mold From Tiles

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Ceiling damaged by mold in Miami Lakes, FL

Tips for Cleaning Mold From Tiles

Ceiling tiles in commercial buildings are long lasting and often beautiful. In certain conditions, though, they can become discolored from stains and even begin to show signs of warping. If the roof has ever leaked, or if plumbing lines have leaked water, tile mold can begin to discolor the decorative features of tiles. Discoloration is part of the tile aging process, but the appearance of mold on the tile is not normal. The mold can be a source of allergens and irritants to employees and customers alike. The presence of mold is an indication that water damage may have occurred in the past.

Normal Cleaning

In most cases, tile discoloration can be taken care of with a few simple actions. The following steps should resolve a host of tile issues:

• Clean with a wet, damp cloth
  
• Use a generic cleaner made for tiles
  
• Keep the room clean by frequent sweeping and upkeep of duct work
  
• Touch up scratches and cracks
  
• Replace as necessary
  
  

This should be enough to restore some of the glory of the tiles. In extreme cases, tile mold may require a higher level of cleaning.

Advanced Cleaning

If grit, mold, germs, and bacteria have contaminated the tiles it may be necessary to call in a professional mold mitigation company in Miami Lakes, FL. This action will result in the measuring of the humidity of each room and in finding ways to lower the moisture level in the building. Mold will only thrive in moist conditions. Air filtration systems with HEPA filters are effective in removing mold spores from the air and restoring a healthy level of indoor air quality. Once the mold is contained, then antimicrobial and anti-fungal cleaning agents are used to wipe away tile mold. Mold remediation experts that are highly trained have the advanced equipment and techniques ready to remove mold spores. They are faster to any size disaster.

Learn How To Flood-Proof Your Building

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damaged building in Pembroke Pines, FL

Learn How To Flood-Proof Your Building

You may not be able to stop a major storm from happening, but you can learn how to mitigate some of the effects before one ever hits. When it comes to severe weather, flood prevention is a major concern. Properties and even cities that are resilient to the effects of inclement weather and floodwaters are achieved through two main channels:

1. Dry flood-proofing
2. Wet flood-proofing
   

Dry Flood-Proofing
This method of flood-proofing involves altering existing structures or building new structures that will remain dry during storms. New buildings can be erected on filler such as sand or gravel. Filler coupled with heavy plastic helps provide a waterproof base. Another method is to raise structures above the expected flood level. Stilts are commonly used in this scenario, though they cannot be used for all building types. Structures that can't be raised should have strong walls or berms to divert floodwaters. The closure and seal method is another effective flood prevention tactic. This involves sealing areas of a building that are below the expected flood level. No matter which method or combination of methods you prefer, you should consult with a qualified engineer to ensure your structure's safety.

Wet Flood-Proofing
Wet flood-proofing comes into play when your structure has been affected by floodwaters. When you can't stop the water from coming in, you can still minimize the damage. You should protect what you can with heavy plastic coverings or bags. Remove valuables and items that can be destroyed by water damage. Seal off water and sewer systems and turn off all utilities. Give the water a path - once it is inside, it also needs a way to flow out. You should also contact qualified professionals in water damage restoration to develop a flood cleaning plan.
If you want to take steps to flood-proof your Pembroke Pines, FL, building, use this information. Flood prevention strategies such as these can be combined to help minimize the negative effects of natural disasters.

Why Is Flood Water Called Black Water?

10/18/2019 (Permalink)

Call on the trained professionals from your local water remediation company to help.

You already know that flood water can causes headache and bring your business's daily operations to a grinding, damp halt. What you may not know is that water from flooding is commonly classified into three categories that reflect the level of hazard involved. Category 3 water, also known as "black water," is the most dangerous of the three.

What Is Category 3 Water?

Water that falls into Category 3 contains sewage and other substances that aren't safe for human contact, such as bacteria and other pathogens. These contaminants can originate in a variety of places:

Toilet backflow
A broken sewer main
Sewage ditches
Septic tank and sewage line seepage
Storm damage

Because of the hazards associated with contaminated flood water, its cleanup is best left to trained water remediation specialists.
What's the Difference Between Water Categories?
Category 3 water is the "dirtiest" water, hence the nickname. Category 2 water, known as gray water, also contains potentially hazardous materials, but they come from interior sources, such as a dishwasher or shower. Category 1 water is clean water.

There are additional subcategories within these categories themselves as well. For example, black water is sorted into three levels based on the severity of the flooding. Level 1 water includes minor floods confined to small areas, such as an overflowing toilet. Level 2 water also refers mainly to minor indoor floods, except that these floods cover more ground and hold the potential to cause more extensive damage because of their reach. The most severe incidents of water damage are considered Level 3. In these situations, contaminated water enters the building from the outside and can cause considerable destruction.
When flooding occurs at your commercial property in Miami Lakes, FL you may be tempted to clean up the premises yourself. Instead of risking exposure to contaminated flood water, use trained professionals from a water remediation company to help.

4 Steps to a Solid Business Continuity Plan

9/28/2019 (Permalink)

You need a business continuity plan that you can put in place if this happens.

Water damage in your commercial building in Miami Lakes, FL, requires professional remediation. Depending on the extent of the damage, it may also require you to vacate the premises while repairs are made. You need a business continuity plan that you can put in place if this happens. Here are four steps for coming up with such a plan.

1. Analyze Essential Services

Every business has key things that have to happen to keep it afloat. These are the essential services. You must figure out a way to continue these services if you are going to stay in business while water mitigation experts restore your building. Create a questionnaire for key personnel in order to determine what these services are.
2. List Necessary Resources

Once you have established the bare bones of your operation, you must determine the resources you need to carry them out. This list should include supplies, equipment and personnel required.

3. Form a Recovery Team

Your business continuity plan needs people who are in charge of carrying it out. It's always good to know who is responsible for which aspects of your business, but in an emergency situation, this knowledge is essential. Your recovery team decides how to implement the emergency response plan so that it can go off without a hitch.

4. Train and Practice

Everyone who holds a responsibility during the continuity period needs to know exactly what to do. There should be formal training for the continuity process. Actually simulating the process through practice can help you identify any problems or glitches that keep it from running smoothly. That way, you can fix problems so that they don't happen if you need the process in reality.

Any extensive repairs to your building can mean that you need to evacuate and operate elsewhere. A solid business continuity plan can help you make the transition happen more easily.

GMBHA Evening Networker

2/28/2018 (Permalink)

GMBHA members

SERVPRO of Miami Lakes is very involved throughout the community and especially in the Hotel industry. We were part of their Networker event for Greater Miami & The Beaches Association. It was a great time to experience different General Managers in the hotel industries. The connections that we had made were great. It was a true reminder on helping service the community around us.

With that being said, GMBHA is an organization to promote interest to their members by advocacy, education and of course indeed partnerships that had advanced Miami as visitors in a choice manner. Not only that they are responsible to make they are advocating on key issues that in the hotel industry, and for us as SERVPRO of Miami Lakes/Doral to be as highly aware of what is truly going on, not only that to help build strong rapport to these prospective clients, discuss their issues. This organization is part as an advocate to the local, state and national levels.

They are known for so many events over 45 of them including breakfast, evening networkers, seminars and luncheons featuring industry leaders throughout the year. This organization has shown great gratitude to us, and helping them as well to check out on how we can help them in case of emergencies, not only that but in other ways to help in the hotel industry. There are other clients that we had served and they are also part of the organization as well. Being connected to other organization can ensure SERVPRO of Miami Lakes productivity and growth in helping the community; making sure we are the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world. We have to continue on growing as a team. As a team we can become successful. As a team we can make it into a reality. We are truly are grateful to serve the community as a whole.