Did You Know? Flash Floods Can Happen In Our Area

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

Floods are the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States, running up a $2.4 billion per year tab in average annual losses. While some of Mother Nature's more demonstrative displays, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes, get more public attention, floods are the number one weather related killer in the United States. Flash floods are the most dangerous kind of flood, because they combine the nearly unstoppable force of a flood with deadly unpredictability and speed. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, more than half of all flash floods fatalities are related to automobiles. The truth is as simple as it is tragic: Just six inches of fast moving flood water can knock a grown man off his feet, and just two feet of water can cause a car to begin floating. Should a flash flood strike our area, SERVPRO of South Elkhart County professionals want you to be equipped with the following tips:

• You cannot outrun a flash flood. Get to higher ground!
• Stay away from and keep children away from drainage ditches and storm drains.
• Never drive into water covering the road. You do not know how deep it is or if the road underneath the water has been washed away.
• If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground if it is safe to do so.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is difficult to recognize flood dangers.
• Do not attempt to cross flowing water if the water is above ankle level.

Leaks Don't Just Damage Your Business, They Can Damage More!

4/16/2022 (Permalink)

Undiscovered leaks and moisture build-up can cause damage to the floors, walls and ceilings of your business, leading to soft dry wall, stained ceiling tiles and other more serious problems. Although the damage may go unnoticed for an extended period of time, proper cleanup is vital to the restoration of your property and equipment. Thermal Imaging equipment can detect even the smallest amounts of moisture in a home. After locating the water damage, extraction and drying will take place to help get you back in business.

Maintenance tips for preventing water damages include but not limited to:

• Inspect ceiling tiles regularly for discoloration or leaks. This could be a sign of leaks in the HVAC unit or piping.
• Check waterlines in coffee makers, refrigerators and water filtration systems for kinks or leaks.
• Remove standing water with a mop and seek professional assistance for complete drying and restoration.

Serving commercial properties for over 35 years, SERVPRO Franchise Specialists help you protect your business from further damage due to water. Contact us at (574)533-2500.

SERVPRO Specializes In Commercial Carpet Cleaning

4/16/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team has other specialties other than just mitigation and restoration. Our team also specializes in cleaning. We can clean pretty much anything. And one thing our team likes to clean is carpets for your commercial businesses!

A dirty carpet isn’t something any business wants to have. It looks unprofessional and unkept. 

We take every job seriously and commercial carpet cleaning is one of them! We offer a variety of different carpet cleaning methods.

• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
• Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.

Call us to schedule a carpet cleaning for your business today.

Disasters Cannot Be Predicable

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Disasters whether man-made or from mother nature are rarely predictable. They often strike quickly and without warning, leaving devastation in their wake. Families that recover the quickest after disasters usually have at least one thing in common: They are prepared. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County can help you to be prepared too. Whether you need to line up a dedicated restoration specialist in case of emergency or are simply seeking out a game plan for recovery, SERVPRO can help.

Call SERVPRO of South Elkhart County for additional information and free recourses including residential preparedness plan information, family communication plans, emergency contact cards and emergency supply checklists.

Call SERVPRO of South Elkhart County at (574)533-2500 or go to our web page at http://SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com 

Why SERVPRO When It Comes To Storm Damage

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Although no one can stop the rains, there are ways to limit flooding in your home. Overland flooding or backups due to overwhelmed storm sewage systems are but two of the sources of floodwaters in the lower levels of your home. Regardless of the source of the water, we have the technicians and the equipment to help you recover.
 
Even though the water causing flood damage to your home may be drawing your eyes down as it seeps into the foundation or lower levels, the problem often is at the roofline. Clogged gutters and damaged downspouts cause water to pound down near the perimeter of your home, saturating the soil and ultimately invading through the slab, poured, or cinder block foundation. We can respond to and restore the damage but expect suggestions from our managers or production crew to minimize or even eliminate future flooding.
 
The grading and landscaping around your home can also contribute to the seepage of floodwaters into the foundation. Over time even correctly graded ground can erode and shift, encouraging rainwater to drain into your home rather than away from it. SERVPRO crews also see scenarios where plantings surrounding your home contribute to excess water moving into the porous materials making up the base and protecting the lower levels of your house. Irrigation systems or merely an overdone watering of foundation gardens have the unhappy result of a wet home.
 
SERVPRO evaluates the characteristics of the water flooding into your home to determine whether it needs to be contained and disposed of according to local regulations. The sooner you get our team to your home the more likely that the water checks out as Category 1. If the soil around your home is loose, dirt particles can flow in with the water. Lawn chemicals, fertilizers, and even pet wastes can taint the water, requiring careful handling. Gutter overflow can also contain bird and animal waste and mold, threatening the flooded area with microbial growth if not disinfected and dried out after the flood water evacuates.
 
Submersible pumps and water extractors pull most of the flood water out of your home. If Category 1 we can drain it outside, but take care to deposit far from the house to prevent it from flooding again. We use moisture meters and infrared scanners to locate hidden pockets of moisture and to set a baseline for drying goals. SERVPRO crews position air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to dry out the affected space. The moisture numbers are monitored to ensure we achieve standard levels.
 
The team at SERVPRO of South Elkhart County has the necessary training and experience to remediate seepage-based flooding. Do not hesitate to call us if we can help!

Response Tips For Water Damage

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Even the smallest of water damages has the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to not having very costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. The two primary components of a proper water restoration are: 

1. FAST ACTION
2. THOROUGH DRYING

The checklist goes as follows:

• Identify the source of the water and take immediate steps to stop further intrusion.
•  Remove as much water as possible with a mop and blotting.
• Wipe excessive water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and other table items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and carpet.
• Remove Oriental rugs or other rugs form wet wall-to-wall carpets.
• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.
• Avoid the use of all electric power tools and devises while standing on wet carpets or floors.
• For Services "Like it never even happened," call SERVPRO of South Elkhart County for all your Fire, Water and Restoration needs.

Call at (574)533-2500 or go to the webpage www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

Does Your Business Need Insurance?

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

As a business owner, you know the importance of keeping your establishment safe. Each year, water damage ranks as one of the top claim types for businesses of all sizes. Part of making sure your property, business, and people are safeguarded in the event of a disaster is having appropriate business insurance. Check with your agent if you have questions about your coverage.

1. Reduce Your Risk
Damage can originate from several water sources, such as broken pipes, sewer backups, severe storms, and more. Though you can't stop natural disasters, you can take steps to manage the severity in some instances. Routinely inspect your property and perform maintenance as required. Take measures to protect your assets by insulating exposed pipes, maintaining building temperatures of 55 degrees, and sealing cracks in your building’s exterior and foundation. Be sure to keep gutters, downspouts, and drainage areas clear of debris to prevent backups. Emergencies don't adhere to schedules, so make sure you're taking the time now to reduce your risk later.
2. Plan for Recovery
In the event of a disaster, it's important to have a plan to handle the situation safely. Every business is somewhat prone to water damage, whether it's from broken pipes or inclement weather. Contact your insurance provider to be sure you have the appropriate level of endorsements (also called riders) on your policy to cover the costs associated with water cleanup and repairs. You may also want to discuss what happens in the event of structural damage, mold growth, or ruined inventory. After an emergency, be quick to contact restoration experts who can efficiently mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project.
Keeping your business safe during an emergency is crucial. You can take steps to prevent some water damage from happening, but it's also important to have adequate business insurance to prepare for the risk of serious incidents outside of your control.

Give us a call if disaster strikes your home or business! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Timing Is Everything What Water Damage Occurs

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Water leaks within a business can seep into flooring, carpets, baseboards and walls while moving throughout the structure, potentially creating mildew and staining walls. Quick action is critical in avoiding costly repairs and expensive downtime. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County understands that a water damage event can not only disrupt your facility, it can also interrupt day-to-day business functions possibly closing the business and ultimately affecting your revenues.

       LEAK PREVENTION TIPS

Regularly check the following items for leaks:   EXTERIOR

• Check roofing for deterioration.
• Check gutters and down spouts for blockages.
• Check basements and crawl spaces for moisture. 

                INTERIORS

• Check appliances in the break room and cafeteria.
• Check sinks and toilets in the restroom.
• Check HVAC for leaks and blockages.

For all your water and restoration needs call (574)533-2500 or go to the webpage www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

The War in Ukraine Touches Home for Local Man Who Works For SERVPRO of South Bend & South Elkhart County

3/27/2022 (Permalink)

Daniel Kalchenko is a restoration specialist who works for SERVPRO of South Bend and South Elkhart County, and is a native of Donetsk, Ukraine.

He and his family immigrated to the United States after years of violence between Russian backed separatists and the Ukraine government. Daniel works very hard to learn English, and to provide for his family the best way he could, through the skill of carpentry.

Many of Daniel’s family remain in Ukraine and are fighting hard each and every day just to survive. They are in desperate need of food and medical supplies. Daniel keeps in touch with his sister, Vera, who has been reporting back to him about the deteriorating conditions within the Ukraine. Vera told him “We need many things here, but most of all, we need your prayers! Please tell your American friends to pray for us!”

We appreciate Daniel and the amazing work he does for SERVPRO, and we encourage everyone reading to pray for him and his family still in Ukraine during this tumultuous time.

Until Help Arrives - What To Do & Don't Do

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

What To Do Until Help Arrives: DO:

• Limit movement in the facility to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas.
• Coat chrome faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between office furniture legs and wet carpet.

DO NOT:

• Wash any walls or painted surfaces.  
• Shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Clean any electrical equipment.
• Send clothing to the dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor in to the clothing.

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County has all of your needs covered. Call us at (574)533-2500 or go to our webpage at http://www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com. Let us be the one to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Tips For Fire & Smoke Damage

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

DO:

• Limit movement of people in the structure to prevent soot participles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean. soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels on rugs,upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely, and prop doors open to prevent odors. 
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances then protect with light coating lubricant. 
• Pour RV antifreeze into sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs if heat is off during the freezing season.
• Wash off both sides of leaves on indoor plants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until checked by a trained professional. 
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

For all your cleaning and restoration needs call SERVPRO of South Elkhart County at 574-533-2500 or go to our webpage at http://www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

Don't Forget To Build An Emergency Kit

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Be Prepared at your home or business with an Emergency Kit. Ready.gov suggests you have enough supplies to last for at least three days. Below are some suggested items to include in your kit: 

• 3 day supply of non-perishable foods
• Water (one+ gallon per person per day) 
• First-aid kit
• Prescription medication 
• Sleeping bag or blankets
• Fire extinguisher
• Hygiene products
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries
• Cell phone charger
• Change of clothes
• Matches in waterproof container
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities 
• Whistle to signal for help
• Pet supplies
• Infant formula and diapers
• Important documents such as insurance policies, IDs, and bank records in a plastic container

Count On SERVPRO To Destroy Orders With Deodorization Services

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you or a customer suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO of South Elkhart County Franchise

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke, and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems. As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IIRC), SERVPRO of South Elkhart County Franchise Professionals provide specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County Franchise Professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. If you or a customer suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO of South Elkhart County Franchise Professionals at (574) 533-2500.

Whether its fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we'll help make it "Like it never even happened."

Other Odors that may require DEODORIZATION:

• Cigarette Smoke
• Pet Odors
• Decomposition
• Mold

Fire & Smoke Damage - What To DO ( And NOT DO)

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you are dealing with fire and smoke damage, don't go it alone! Give us a call and let us come in and make it "Like it never even happened."

•  Limit movement in the area to prevent further damage.

• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Clearly mark the area with caution signs and safety tape.
• If area is safe, list vital contents for emergency restoration/priority service. 
• Be sure your staff wears proper personal protection equipment. 
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas. 
• Wash off both sides of leaves on indoor plants.
• Change HVAC filters and tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system. 
• Do not attempt to wash walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Professional. 
• Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first contacting your local SERVPRO Professional. 
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances, computers, television, radios, etc., that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first contacting an authorized repair service.

If you are dealing with fire and smoke damage, don't go it alone! Give us a call and let us come in and make it "Like it never even happened."

When It's YOUR Business - You Can Count On SERVPRO

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

Quick action is critical in avoiding costly repairs and expensive downtime - SERVPRO of South Elkhart County is here 365/24/7!

Water leaks within a business can seep into flooring, carpets, baseboards and walls while moving throughout the structure, potentially creating mildew and staining wall. Quick action is critical in avoiding costly repairs and expensive downtime. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County professionals understand the water damage event can not only disrupt your facility, it can also interrupt day-to-day business functions, possibly closing the business and ultimately affecting your revenues. There's no such thing as a small emergency when it threatens to shut down your business. Turn to the company with the resources and experience to be a national leader in cleaning and restoration. SERVPRO Franchise professionals can offer: 

• 38 years of business in the cleanup and restoration industry
• More than 1,350 Franchises servicing 48 states.
• Over 5,800 technicians trained in the cleanup and care of commercial property
• Over 95,000 pieces of restoration equipment available nationwide to restore even the largest damage to preloss condition when possible.

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to assist you with your cleanup and restoration needs.

SERVPRO Of South Elkhart County Is Available 24 Hours

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

No disaster is too big for SERVPR of Elkhart County. Give us a call any time - night or day!

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service in Elkhart County Water Damage SERVPRO of South Elkhart County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today 574-533-2500 We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through Elkhart Indiana his crisis.

SERVPRO of South has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County Knows No Damage Is Too Large Or Too Small!

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

For all Your Fire, Water and Restoration needs call (574)533-2500

What Can SERVPRO of South Elkhart County Do for Me?

Service Response Guidelines

1. Within 1 hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of South Elkhart County will contact you to arrange for services
2. Within 4 hours SERVPRO of South Elkhart County will be on-site to start mitigation services.
3. Within 8 business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to you by SERVPRO of South Elkhart County.

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County  are qualified but not limited to the following

• Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup and Restoration
• Water Removal and Dehumidification
• Crime Scene, Biohazard and Vandalism Cleanup
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
• Contents Claim and  Inventory Services
• Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning
• Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning and Care
• Stain Removal, Stain Resistance Applications
• Odor Identification and Deodorization
• Upholstery and Drapes: Wet or dry Cleaning Methods

For all Your Fire, Water and Restoration needs call (574)533-2500 or go to the webpage www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

Ask The Experts: After The Fire

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

A fire can be devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County has specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet.

Board-ups - In some cases firefighters may break windows and cut holes in the roof in order to vent the fire. It is extremely important to secure openings to your home or structure using sturdy, durable materials designed to protect it from both weather intrusion and intrusion by outsiders.

Types of Fire/Smoke/Soot

Wet Smoke – Plastics and Synthetics; Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood; Fast burning, high temperatures, dry, powdery, non-smeary residues.

Protein – Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs. Other Types – Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue.

What to do after a fire:

• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.

What NOT to do after a fire:

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting SERVPRO of South Elkhart County
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may damage garment further.

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County has what it takes to restore your home back to preloss condition.

If Storms Hit Your Business, Give SERVPRO of South Elkhart County a Call

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

When you know that a storm is likely to impact your business, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, focusing on storm preparedness before a disaster occurs can help to keep yourself, your staff and your property safe.

1. Document the Building’s State Before the Storm

When a building is damaged, it’s often important for property management to provide the business’ insurance company with documentation of the destruction. However, it may also be beneficial to have photographs of your property prior to the incident. By showing an insurance adjuster what the business looked like before it sustained damage, you can help to ensure your claim is accurate.

2. Establish a Line of Communication

Storms can come on suddenly, and in the event that the property needs to be evacuated, it’s useful to know how to contact all employees in a timely manner. As part of your storm preparedness plan, you may consider asking all staff members to provide you with a way to reach them quickly before a disaster. Since you may not be present in the building when an emergency occurs, it can also be wise to create a list of tasks that the last person to exit should perform. An example might include making sure all doors and windows are closed.

3. Inspect the Property

Inspecting the structure before a storm can help you prevent damage, because leaks or malfunctioning equipment may worsen any problems that do occur. An inspection will also allow you to observe any openings in the building, which can happen when roof shingles are cracked or missing. This may let rain get inside more easily. If you see signs of a problem, you should contact emergency restoration services to prevent additional issues.

As a property manager, storm preparedness can be an important element of your job. Documenting the building before a disaster, establishing a line of communication and inspecting the structure can help you to prepare your business for any situation.

So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are ready to help get things back to "Like it never even happened."

Ask The Experts: What Is Biohazard Cleanup

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

Dissecting Biohazard Cleanup: Understanding the Process and Reducing Risk

By Tim Reifsteck

When compared to a fire or water loss, property damage resulting from a suicide, murder or unattended death poses greater risk and complexity for the adjuster, the biohazard cleanup company, and of course, the policyholder. Many cleaning and restoration companies will offer bioremediation services, but only those that specialize in this area, like SERVPRO truly understand the science and intricacies of the bioremediation and decontamination process. In order to minimize risk for the insurance carrier and ensure the safety of the policy holder, it’s important to realize the inherent challenges of bioremediation and the processes and standards that every biohazard cleanup professional must adhere to.

Am I liable for an improper biohazard cleanup?

At some point in their careers, insurance professionals may have experienced sticker shock from a bioremediation claim. How could the biohazard cleanup of a single room cost more than recovering an entirely flooded home? It might be tempting to retain a trusted property damage restoration company at a lower cost, but doing so may put the insurer at risk for a lawsuit.

Consider a recent case where a general cleaning company was hired to sanitize a home after 600 pounds of deer meat rotted in a family’s garage due to a power outage. Following the cleaning, the homeowners reported that the rotting stench still remained throughout the house and that some family members became ill. Experts who were brought in to investigate the situation determined that the enduring smell and sickness resulted from inefficiencies in the cleaning process, such as the failure to seal concrete surfaces.

Why is bioremediation so complex?

Many biohazard situations pose grave health risks to policy holders and cleanup companies because of the potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens. One out of every 24 people has Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C or HIV and these pathogens can survive in a deceased person for a considerable amount of time – up to 16 days after death, depending on the temperature and surrounding environment. Exposure to bloodborne viruses can occur due to direct contact with non-intact skin, accidental injury from biological fragments, inhalation and exposure from splashes of blood or bio fluid to the eyes, nose, or mouth. Considering the health risks, bioremediation specialists must follow stringent employee safety regulations and meticulous decontamination procedures that most cleanup crews are not accustomed to.

Separately, biohazard situations can lead to hidden dangers that an average property restoration technician might not even consider. For example, in a water damage emergency, floor boards and drywall might be removed because they are visibly warped and unsalvageable. Then the rest of the structure can be dried out. In contrast, blood can seep through grout and in-between floorboards, even through subflooring. There is no other way to clean the damage but to remove all affected materials – if new wood floors are installed over the blood spill or if tiles are simply wiped down, the remaining bio matter can spread disease, release odors and further damage the property.

How do I evaluate a bioremediation provider?

To determine whether or not a company is qualified to handle a biohazard situation, insurance professionals need a deeper understanding of proper bioremediation standards and what it takes to fully decontaminate a property. These are the key things to inquire about when choosing a vendor for a biohazard cleanup:

OSHA Compliance – These regulations are in place to protect the biohazard company employees and to prevent injury and potential liability for all involved. All supervisors and field technicians should be trained in the following OSHA programs: Bloodborne Pathogens, Personal Protective Equipment, Hazard Communication, Asbestos Awareness, Heat Illness, Fall Protection, Lift Safety, Lock Out – Tag Out, and Power Tool Safety. A common misstep among restoration companies is that they only comply with the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standards, instead of all the aforementioned areas.

EPA and State Environmental Agency Compliance – The disposal of medical waste must be in accordance with federal, state and/or local regulations. Not all biohazard remediation companies are licensed to transport or store medical waste so it’s essential to understand if/how they comply with the local and national standards. The cleaning company can incur hefty fines if medical waste is not disposed of properly. Also, employees need to be trained in the proper use of cleaning agents – this can be more complicated than it seems, as many agents will become inactive if not measured and diluted properly.

Reporting/Testing – A reputable company should be able to deliver a detailed report which catalogs every step of the cleanup process. This should include photos of the entire process as well, so the policyholder and adjuster understand why some structural materials needed to be removed, what was disposed of, why the employees went through a certain amount of protective equipment, etc. They should also have equipment available to check for non-visible but active biological fluids and other contaminants so that it is certain when an area is considered disinfected.

Sensitivity Training – Dealing with a flood or fire can be extremely traumatic, but it does not compare to the loss of loved one. During these traumatic situations, the family members often stay at home so it is imperative that the workers in their home are compassionate and considerate. The biohazard cleanup specialists at SERVPRO understand the need for the family to deal with only one point person in order to avoid confusion or conflicting updates. They have been trained to eliminate alarming language from their vocabulary and speak empathetically with the policyholder.

When it comes to biohazard remediation, there is no quick solution. The fact that there are no laws protecting policyholders through a biohazard cleaning process puts the responsibility on the insurance carrier to work with bioremediation specialists who follow strict safety standards and cleanup procedures.

If the insurance carrier directs the cleanup process and even one of the above points is neglected, they might be held liable for any further health and property damages resulting from the improper cleanup. It is important to remember that you can’t put a price tag on the peace of mind that a policyholder needs after a traumatic crime or death occurred in their home or place of business.

The Importance of a Professional for after the fire

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning up a fire-damaged property is essential in restoring the preloss condition of the house by eliminating debris, soiling, and any odors left by the fire. Depending on how the fire cleanup is done, it can help reduce the number of items to replace during the restoration process.

Fire cleanup requires various inputs, ranging from clean water, detergents to specialized cleaning agents. For the best outcome, at a fair cost, there is a need to choose wisely. Our SERVPRO technicians assess the soiling prevalent in the affected area to help make the right choice. If we determine there are only hydrophilic residues, we can use plain water to clean the soiled areas. Other types of residues may require professional cleaning agents.

Agitation is a crucial aspect of fire cleanup, especially when dealing with massive or stubborn deposits. There are many ways to agitate a soiled surface, but it is crucial to choose the right one depending on the type of underlying material to avoid damaging it in the process. Our SERVPRO technicians utilize:

• Air pressure
• Water pressure
• Rotating Brushes
• Scrubbers
• Blasting

We can also use different techniques simultaneously. For example, when cleaning carpets through hot water extraction, we utilize both air and water pressure to agitate the soiled areas. Options such as sandblasting are only feasible when eroding the material being cleaned does not damage it. Soda and sandblasting are useful when removing charring from frames and other unfinished surfaces.

Various solvents used in the cleaning process can leave permanent damages such as stains, discoloration, or fire damage to the physical qualities of the material. Our SERVPRO technicians take caution to avoid wetting surfaces, especially when cleaning porous materials. For surfaces made with specialized materials such as acoustic tiles, we use specialized cleaning techniques such as Peroxide-Active cleaning to safeguard the physical qualities of the tiles.

So give us a call at SERVPRO of South Elkhart County today at 574-233-8377! We are faster to any disaster and we are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."

How do I eliminate that smell!

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

There are times when one of the more significant challenges after a house fire is ensuring that there are no lingering odors from smoke and soot residue. Unless these particles get addressed using tried-and-true expert techniques, there is the potential to spread throughout the home and to become a constant reminder of the fire event. This is where our IICRC-certified technicians at SERVPRO are here to help!

What Can Be Done to Fight Smoke Odors?

When our skilled technicians get called to help with fire damage we pay close attention to the entire job. This means assessing the full scope of your loss, including any areas where soot particles and smoke residue settled. Even the smallest bit of residue left behind can cause odors to sprout up weeks or months down the road. This is why we have a series of carefully planned steps we take to execute a full restoration on your property.

How Do You Work Through the Damage?

Once you call us for fire restoration services, a fully equipped crew arrives at your property in as little as 4 hours or less. Our crew chief begins the assessment so that a detailed plan of action can get put into place. Addressing a fire loss with heavy smoke damage includes:

•   Testing and Cleaning

Once your interior is deemed safe to enter, and the plan is formulated, we work to remove items that are too charred to salvage. This helps us to limit the amount of soot spread from one location to another while also lessening odors throughout the interior. Our technicians test the smoke residue, which allows us to select cleaning agents carefully. This ensures more efficient cleaning as well as cuts back on the potential for damage using incorrect cleaning measures.

•   Residue Cleaning Options

We see two main types of smoke damage after a fire loss. Dry smoke requires careful cleaning because wet cleaning agents might drive the residue further into the surfaces. We take our time, using care to lift the dry smoke using sponges and soft cloths. With wet smoke, it often binds to surfaces. This calls for solvent-based cleaners to lift it for removal safely. The initial testing done helps ensure no marring happens on any surfaces.

•   Content Cleaning

There will be items within your home covered in soot and smoke residue. We handle all of these items on a case-by-case basis, using a variety of methods to suit each item. Non-porous items can be cleaned using our specialized immersion method. This is when items get immersed in a cleaning solution that helps carefully remove the residue, restoring it to like-new condition. Fabric items and upholstery get tested to ensure no damage comes to the materials, with our technicians often using soft bristle brushes to remove particles. 

So give us a call today! We are faster to any disaster and ready to get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Ask The Experts: Help, my water heater stopped heating

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Wet spots on the floor or a rusted tank may signal a problem. Your hot-water heater could have a leak or a busted valve. If you are having a problem with your hot-water heater, contact a qualified plumbing contractor right away.

Once you have called a plumbing contractor then contact SERVPRO of South Elkhart County to provide an inspection utilizing advanced technical equipment. Upon inspection if damages are determined SERVPRO of South Elkhart County will address the water damage and provide a full repair service estimate. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County has a 24 hour emergency service team that is highly trained and ready to help you at your home or business.

Contact SERVPRO of South Elkhart County at 574-233-8377. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County services all of the Michiana area.

Ask The Experts: Help, my basement is a swimming pool!

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Last week this local commercial building suffered a large water loss. In this particular instance, SERVPRO was called after hours to respond to the unpleasant surprise for the local building. Our SERVPRO team responds day and night and is always "faster to any size disaster." 

In this case, the water affected a large portion of the basement is a massive building. The basement had concrete and carpet floors that were affected by the water. Unfortunately, some of the areas was an office building. Luckily, the SERVPRO team responds very quickly and they were able to minimize the water seeping into the carpeted area. 

The first night our SERVPRO team responded, the water level was higher than expected. But in just a few short hours our SERVPRO team had the water drained and were beginning to clean the area. After the water was drained, they could begin the drying process. Luckily, our team has all of the necessary equipment and we were out of there in just a few days! 

When Flooding Affects Your South Elkhart Business, SERVPRO Is Here For You

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at South Elkhart County commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of South Elkhart County

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

When A Pipe Bursts At Your Business, SERVPRO Is Here For You!

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

If you have a pipe burst in your business, you no doubt see the damage water can do. However, you may wonder why everyone says you have to hurry to clean it up. After all, the damage has been done, right? Maybe not. You don’t want to deal with mold cleanup, too.

Here are a few ways floods can harm your building even after the water stops rising:

• Black mold
• Structural damage
• Foul odor

How does hurrying to call for professional restoration services help? These explanations may help you understand the process.

Stop Molding

When water rises in your business, it creates a uniquely humid area. This humidity helps mold spores all over the building grow. Within 24 to 48 hours, mold can become visible. However, getting started on the restoration process as soon as possible can help pull the moisture from the area and stop mold in its tracks.

Keep Structures Safe

The longer the water sits, the more it can damage your business’s walls and floors. As the water stays in place, it seeps through the walls and makes them softer. With enough time, this can make your building unsafe to be in altogether. Furthermore, the more soaked everything in the room where the pipe burst becomes, the harder it is to rid the area of mold.

Prevent the Smell

Mold is the main reason why you need to call a professional restoration crew. As you probably know, mold smells awful. Naturally, this isn’t good for business. Instead of waiting for that odor to fill the building, stop it before it starts. A restoration company can send an odor control specialist to help.

When it comes to flooding in your business, there’s no sense in waiting. A pipe burst can be a big enough problem without mold, structural problems, and a foul odor on top of it. Contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Elkhart County and let us come in and make it "Like it never even happened." 

We Can Help To Restore Your Commercial Property After A Disaster

3/27/2021 (Permalink)

There's nothing quite as difficult for a commercial establishment as dealing with water damage. However, knowing what to do when disaster strikes can prevent you from experiencing unnecessary emotional upsets for yourself, your employees, and your customers and mitigate the economic strain of lost business. There are many steps you'll need to take to get your commercial property back in order following a water damaging event. Contacting a team of skilled water damage restoration experts from SERVPRO is a good first step.

Quick Water Removal Mitigates Monetary Loss 

The longer excess water remains on your commercial property, the more likely you are to suffer from costly water damage repairs to structural properties like ceiling tiles, insulation, drywall, and flooring. Then there is the concern of water damage to your capital investments: inventory, furniture, carpeting, electronic equipment and paper documents. Having a team of skilled water damage restoration experts like SERVPRO to begin immediately removing standing water can prevent you from spending unnecessary money on repairs.

Quick Remediation Prevents Secondary Water Damage.

Another benefit of a quick reaction to the pressing problem of water intrusion is that fast extraction helps prevent secondary water damage. Unfortunately, water damage creates a moist, wet environment within your business. Moisture and high humidity offer mold an opportunity to grow and spread throughout structural materials and wood furniture and fabrics. If your business deals with food distribution, high inventory loss may be a costly negative effect. For this reason, it's critically important to have standing water removed as quickly as possible. SERVPRO can arrive, usually in about one hour, with water removal equipment to meet any problem. 

Fast Restoration Helps You Get Back In Business

If the water intrusion, by way of a storm, flood, leak, or the aftermath of fire extinguishing causes severe water damage to your commercial business, you may have to relocate temporarily while water damage restoration work is being completed. Closed doors affect customer traffic, employee earnings, and your bottom line.  Insurance companies normally work hand-in-hand with SERVPRO to come to a working agreement allowing the water extraction process to commence immediately. 

Contact SERVPRO Today

If your commercial property has been subjected to water damage, getting fast, effective water damage restoration services is a must. Here at SERVPRO, we specialize in optimizing and expediting each component of the restoration process to ensure that you can get your business back in business. Moreover, each of our IICRC-Certified technicians will provide you with the personable care and excellent customer service that keeps you in the loop throughout the water damage restoration process. We can quickly reopen your doors "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Building Restoration Services

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County responds quickly to a water or fire, or mold damage emergency, 24 hours a day. Whether the damage occurs in a small business building or a big box store, we have the training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation. Our national network of 1,650 Franchises gives us access to personnel and resources. Call us for assistance today!

Why SERVPRO? We are your carpet cleaning professionals

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

The Importance of Hiring Professional Carpet Cleaners

Professional carpet cleaners are the only people who should be trusted to do the job. Anyone with less experience or certification will likely not do the job correctly. And their carelessness could end up costing a lot more in the end. 

Carpeting is typically one of the most long-term investments in the home. Most people associate high-cost flooring with tile, marble or hardwood, but carpet can carry a high price tag as well. There are various fibers and matting to choose from, as well as the padding beneath it. When it’s all said and done, it can cost just as much if not more than some other options. Once that investment is installed, great care should be taken to keep it in the best condition possible. This will mean regular vacuuming in high-traffic areas and regular maintenance from professional carpet cleaners.

Why should someone always hire professional carpet cleaners?

Professionally trained technicians have certification in all types of fibers and construction, so they know which products and equipment to use and how to employ them properly. The technician can assess the area for any spot treatment that may be necessary and will know which tools and specialized products to use. They will also be aware of the correct methods to complete the job effectively. Technicians will also inform the customer of ways that they can prolong the life of their carpeting and how to properly treat spills and accidents should they occur.

What can happen if someone doesn't use professional carpet cleaners?

A lot of damage can occur if a certified technician or firm is not hired to do the job. They can over-saturate the fibers and promote an environment that may foster mold and other microbial growth in time. If using improper equipment, the fibers can be damaged, which would result in replacement being required much sooner. If the wrong cleansing agents are used, or they are not properly rinsed out, they may damage the fibers or make future soil adhere quicker, which will require cleaning more often than would otherwise be necessary.  

What should a customer expect when they hire professional carpet cleaners?

Upon arrival, the technician will assess the carpeting. Once that is complete, the process can begin. First they will vacuum the floor during a process called dry soil removal. This removes any loose items in the flooring. Then soil suspension and extraction will take place. The technician uses a preconditioning agent that is mixed to separate the soil from the fibers. Various methods are employed to extract the soil from the flooring. Grooming may also be done to improve the fiber piles, matting, and to equally disperse protectors or conditioning agents. Then the drying process can begin. Carpets that have been professionally cleaned should be dry in less than 24 hours. Homeowners can assist in this process by ensuring the right temperature is maintained, and there is adequate ventilation. 

When hiring a carpet cleaning technician, make sure that they have received their certification through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC is a globally-recognized organization that is the leader in certifying technicians and firms in the restoration, cleaning and inspection industry.

Ask The Experts: What can I do to the outside of my home to help stop flooding?

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Many homeowners think of landscape design as a way to improve the aesthetics of their property and enhance their enjoyment of the surrounding nature, but landscaping can also help protect a home from flooding. Outside flooding can destroy the lawn and garden around a house and increases the risk of water damage inside the home. These three tips can help you decrease your chances of flooding.

1. Make Sure Water Drains Away From the House

It’s important to check your downspout before the rain storm comes. Not only do you want to look for and repair any damages, but you should also ensure that water drains away from the house. In addition to the standard downspouts used in home construction, there are also ornamental rain drainage systems that can help direct the water even further away from the house. Diverting this water to a garden bed, or other porous surface, can also help prevent flooding.

2. Check That Rain Water Has Somewhere To Go

Outside flooding occurs when rain water does not have a clear path to a drainage source or when water cannot be absorbed into the ground around the house. As part of your landscaping, you can install other drainage sources such as sub-surface drains or catch basins. You could also install a dry streambed or a swale on a sloped surface to create a path for the water to flow away from the house. 

3. Ensure That Your Mulch Can Withstand Heavy Rains

Lightweight mulch can easily float away in a rain storm. This mulch is harder to clean up after a storm, and during a storm it can clog drains and result in flooding. Using heavier mulch that stays in place may help avoid these problems.

Property Owners & Water Damage

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. the key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. The two primary components of a proper water restoration are: fast action, and thorough drying.

• Identify the source of the water and take immediate steps to stop further intrusion.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and other table top items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and carpet.
• Remove oriental rugs or other colored rugs from wet wall-to-wall carpets.
• Do not leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.
• Avoid the use of all electrically- powered devices while standing on wet carpets or floors.
• Call a professional to do the job right.

If you have any questions or need to help ensure your property is drying properly, contact SERVPRO of South Elkhart County at 574-23-8377.

Ready For Whatever Happens & Faster To Your Disaster

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm or disaster strikes, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team is poised and "Ready for whatever happens." With a network of more than 1,700 Franchises, the SERVPRO System strives to be faster to any size disaster. Strategically located throughout the United States, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team is trained and equipped to handle the largest storms and highest flood waters. Providing experience, manpower, equipment, and other resources, the Disaster Recovery Team assists SERVPRO of South Elkhart County Franchise Professionals.

SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team has responded to hundreds of disaster events. In the aftermath of a disaster, there is only one objective, to help you make it "Like it never even happened." We helped with 2017 Hurricane Harvey, 2017 Mid-West Flooding, 2018 Mid-Atlantic Freeze, 2018 Indiana Area Microburst, 2018 Mid-West Freeze, 2018 Maryland Flooding.

The cool science involved with drying!

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

The knowledge of psychometrics is essential to restoring a structure to its preloss condition. Where the average Do-it-yourself home owner or business owner might be tempted to grab a few beach towels to mop up the mess and place a box fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of South Elkhart County professionals follow strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. 

Just for starters, a trained restorer will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, preventing damage from happening because wet components were over looked.
• Measure how much moisture is in the wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up mother nature by using professional drying equipment.

What exactly does "speed up mother nature" mean? A wet building can often dry naturally because our environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material, but only if the air is drier. The only problem is nature takes too long, and secondary damages occur while the building is drying out. For this reason, SERVPRO of South Elkhart County professionals have been trained to use top of the line equipment to help "mother nature" along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough to reach spaces inside walls and much more. We also use state of the art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

Your Business Requires Quick Thinking

3/21/2021 (Permalink)

Water leaks within a business can seep into flooring, carpets, baseboards and walls while moving throughout the structure, potentially creating mildew and staining wall. Quick action is critical in avoiding costly repairs and expensive downtime. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County professionals understand the water damage event can not only disrupt your facility, it can also interrupt day-to-day business functions, possibly closing the business and ultimately affecting your revenues. There's no such thing as a small emergency when it threatens to shut down your business. Turn to the company with the resources and experience to be a national leader in cleaning and restoration. SERVPRO Franchise professionals can offer: 

• 38 years of business in the cleanup and restoration industry
• More than 1,350 Franchises servicing 48 states.
• Over 5,800 technicians trained in the cleanup and care of commercial property
• Over 95,000 pieces of restoration equipment available nationwide to restore even the largest damage to preloss condition when possible.

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to assist you with your cleanup and restoration needs.

Ask The Experts: Why do I need SERVPRO?

3/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can provide an array of services. This list will provide you with an idea of some of the services we provide.

Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup and Restoration. 

Pretesting helps determine what type of fire has taken place. Knowing the types of smoke and their behavior patterns are vital to proper restoration.

Water Removal and Dehumidification.

We identify the source and type of water, which determines the proper course of action. Drying equipment controls temperature and humidity, minimizing secondary damage.

Crime Scene, Biohazard and Vandalism Cleanup.

Our technicians are trained to safely and effectively clean bio-hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations.

Mold Mitigation and Remediation

Our technicians work to control and re-mediate mold contaminants while protecting your health and safety.

Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning

Our technicians can inspect your HVAC system and ductwork. Cleaning services can be provided to help restore peak energy efficiency, eliminate offensive odors and improve indoor air quality.

Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning and Care

Our technicians use the latest IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) training as well as state-of-the-art equipment to remove entrapped soils from deep within your carpet's pile and backings.

Odor Identification and Deodorization

Our technicians will find the source of the odor and determine the best methods to neutralize and eliminate it.

Upholstery Cleaning

Fabrics are inspected and tested to determine the safest and most effective cleaning method.

Why SERVPRO? Leaks Happen

3/21/2021 (Permalink)

Undiscovered leaks and moisture build-up can cause damage to the floors, walls and ceilings of your business, leading to soft dry wall,stained ceiling tiles and other more serious problems. Although the damage may go unnoticed for an extended period of time, proper cleanup is vital to the restoration of your property and equipment. Thermal Imaging equipment can detect even the smallest amounts of moisture in a home. After locating the water damage, extraction and drying will take place to help get you back in business.

Maintenance tips for preventing water damages include but not limited to:

• Inspect ceiling tiles regularly for discoloration or leaks. This could be a sign of leaks in the HVAC unit or piping.
• Check waterlines in coffee makers, refrigerators and water filtration systems for kinks or leaks.
• Remove standing water with a mop and seek professional assistance for complete drying and restoration.

Serving commercial properties for over 35 years, SERVPRO Franchise Specialists help you protect your business from further damage due to water. 

When a natural disaster hits, SERVPRO is here for you

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Every summer, the U.S. goes through an “active weather” season. The middle of spring through summer is a prime time for hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, thunder storms, and fires. Here at SERVPRO, we’ve already begun to see the impact of the severe weather. In Kentucky, we have already experienced a massive amount of rain. Luckily, our SERVPRO team is here for any natural disaster. We respond to water, wind and fire damage! Here are some weather events to look out for during the spring and summer months:

• Hurricanes–Hurricanes, with the accompanying wind, water, and flood, cause a lot of destruction in areas where they hit. When hurricanes gather strength, buildings, trees, and water infrastructures are commonly destroyed. The storms can also knock down power lines, posing a risk of electrocution.
• Tornadoes– Tornadoes are characterized by whirling winds and debris and can endanger life and property. They are common from spring until the middle of summer but can occur any time of the year.
• Floods– Floods are becoming more common in the U.S., with flash floods as the top weather-related killer. A few inches of water could bring extensive damage to homes and buildings. Heavy rains, levee breaches, and tsunamis cause floods. Many floods occur in areas that cannot absorb rainwater.
• Fires– The heat of the summer and the years of drought experienced in many parts of the country can precipitate massive forest fires that, in many instances, affect dwellings. Spontaneous combustion, volcanic eruption, and faulty electrical wires are other common causes of fires.

 Call SERVPRO if you are ever in need after a natural disaster!

Ask The Experts: When Fire Hits Your Kitchen

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

A few months ago SERVPRO responded to a fire at a local home. Luckily, the fire was contained to the proximity of the kitchen. When a fire takes place, the home is not just affected by the fire. There is also water damage from the sprinklers putting out the fire. 

SERVPRO goes in after the firefighters have put out the fire and the damage has been done. Our team goes in and cleans all of the contents and gets rid of the smell caused by the smoke. The remnants of smoke is much harder to get rid of than imaginable. Our team works very hard by cleaning the walls, then painting them with an oil-based paint. And lastly, adding a final coat. 

After we repair the damages, we offer remodeling services as well. We are currently expanding in our remodeling and construction department. SERVPRO  likes to make sure the job is seen all the way through to the end. 

Ask The Experts: When Fire Hits Your Kitchen

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

When you own your own business, you can't afford to be unprepared for extreme circumstances. If your commercial building in South Elkhart County, caught fire, for example, it would be helpful to have a plan for dealing with the aftermath. Here are some fire preparation tips that can help you handle emergencies as efficiently and effectively as possible.

Data Backup

Every important electronic document should be regularly backed up, and at least one backup copy should be stored in an off-site location. There is a collection of essential information you need to keep your business running smoothly, including:

• Payroll records
• Customer contact and billing information
• Supplier contact information
• List of inventory, equipment and essential assets
• List of the cost of replacing essential equipment and supplies

It is also advisable to store the numbers of fire mitigation experts and your insurance company with the copies of your important business documents. Then you don't have to scrounge to find the first numbers you need to call.

Insurance Coverage

Proper fire preparation involves knowing that your business is covered if something should happen. Review your insurance portfolio with your agent to make sure that you have covered all your bases beyond the standard general liability and property policies. 

Disaster Plan

Every business should have a detailed disaster preparation plan. The plan should include evacuation procedures, task delegation, relocation decisions and a business continuity outline. All employees should receive training on the plan as well as the opportunity to complete a test run to identify unforeseen flaws. Don't wait until the fire damage has already occurred to decide how you are going to proceed.

It's never too early to protect your business against potential fire devastation. Make sure you have protected important information, made an emergency plan and purchased sufficient insurance coverage. Sufficient fire preparation could mean the difference between your company’s survival after a fire and its demise.

Ask The Experts: A storm hit and damaged my home...Now What?

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage to your home is a frightening prospect. However, knowing a little about the different types of water and the cleanup process can make the situation less stressful.

Water Categories

There are three classifications of water. These classifications are determined by the amount and type of contamination present.

1. Clean water is uncontaminated. This water is usually from pipes, rainwater, or snowmelt. Generally, this water is not harmful.
2. Gray water is slightly contaminated, usually with soap or other chemicals. This type of water comes from appliance drains, aquariums, etc. This category may be harmful, so use caution when cleaning up.
3. Blackwater is highly contaminated and poses health risks. Floodwater and sewage are in this category. Be very careful with this type of water.
   
   

It is important to note that water begins in one category but will become contaminated with time. Within two days, clean water becomes gray water and gray water becomes black water. It is crucial to act quickly when dealing with standing water.

Cleanup Process

When dealing with a flood, the cleanup process varies depending on the cause of the water damage and the contamination level. However, the process usually follows a similar pattern. The first step is removing the standing water. Wet/dry vacuums and pumps come in handy here. After extracting as much of the water as possible, it is important to dry out any remaining moisture. Heavy-duty dehumidifiers, fans, and open windows can all speed up this process. While the area is drying out, examine the objects and surfaces that were affected by the water. Some materials, such as carpet and insulation, may not be salvageable. Things that cannot be effectively dried and cleaned should be discarded to prevent mold from spreading to surrounding items. After the area is fully dried, you should sanitize the surfaces the water came into contact with using commercial cleaners or a bleach mixture.
Regardless of the type of water damage you experience, a professional restoration company can return your home to pre-flood condition quickly and safely.

Give us a call if disaster strikes! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Ask The Experts: How Do I Keep Excess Moisture Out Of My Building?

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Ask The Experts: How Hard is It To Replace A Toilet?

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Having a leaking toilet is no fun. You have taken the plunge and have decided that a toilet repair is no longer an option for you. A water damage company has cleaned up the problems that the old leaky toilet has caused, and you have decided to replace it. You have already taken down the old toilet and ensured that the flange is still good, so how do you get the new toilet on? Follow these six easy steps to show you the way.

1. Add New Bolts to the Flange
Insert new bolts into the toilet flange. Make sure the bolts are tight.

2. Fix the Wax Ring to the Toilet, Align and Secure
Soften the wax ring by placing it in warm water. Then, take the ring and fix it to the bottom of the toilet. Line the toilet up with the bolts so that the wax ring is directly over the flange. Then, gently press the toilet down, making sure it stays in place to avoid a leaking toilet. Secure the toilet by tightening washers, nuts, and cap bases on top of the bolts. Then, you can add the caps.

3. Add the Tank
Now it is time to add the tank. Add the rubber gasket that sits between the tank and the bowl, onto the bowl. Add the bolts that will secure the tank to the toilet bowl.

4. Attach to the Toilet Bowl
Put the tank on top of the toilet bowl and secure it by tightening the nuts to the bolts.

5. Bring on the Water
Connect the water supply to the tank and turn it on. Let the tank fill and ensure that there are no leaks. Flush the toilet to make sure there are no leaks at the base.

6. Put on the Top and Seat
Use a screwdriver to put on the seat and place the top on the tank.
You can replace a leaking toilet in a few steps. Some of the steps include adding new bolts to the flange, fixing the wax ring to the toilet, attaching the tank to the bowl, and connecting the water supply.

If disaster strikes your home or business, call the professionals at SERVPRO of South Elkhart County! We are faster to any disaster and will get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Ask The Experts; But, can you help with that smell?

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

There are times when one of the more significant challenges after a house fire is ensuring that there are no lingering odors from smoke and soot residue. Unless these particles get addressed using tried-and-true expert techniques, there is the potential to spread throughout the home and to become a constant reminder of the fire event. This is where our IICRC-certified technicians at SERVPRO are here to help!

What Can Be Done to Fight Smoke Odors?

When our skilled technicians get called to help with fire damage we pay close attention to the entire job. This means assessing the full scope of your loss, including any areas where soot particles and smoke residue settled. Even the smallest bit of residue left behind can cause odors to sprout up weeks or months down the road. This is why we have a series of carefully planned steps we take to execute a full restoration on your property.

How Do You Work Through the Damage?

Once you call us for fire restoration services, a fully equipped crew arrives at your property in as little as 4 hours or less. Our crew chief begins the assessment so that a detailed plan of action can get put into place. Addressing a fire loss with heavy smoke damage includes:

•   Testing and Cleaning

Once your interior is deemed safe to enter, and the plan is formulated, we work to remove items that are too charred to salvage. This helps us to limit the amount of soot spread from one location to another while also lessening odors throughout the interior. Our technicians test the smoke residue, which allows us to select cleaning agents carefully. This ensures more efficient cleaning as well as cuts back on the potential for damage using incorrect cleaning measures.

•   Residue Cleaning Options

We see two main types of smoke damage after a fire loss. Dry smoke requires careful cleaning because wet cleaning agents might drive the residue further into the surfaces. We take our time, using care to lift the dry smoke using sponges and soft cloths. With wet smoke, it often binds to surfaces. This calls for solvent-based cleaners to lift it for removal safely. The initial testing done helps ensure no marring happens on any surfaces.

•   Content Cleaning

There will be items within your home covered in soot and smoke residue. We handle all of these items on a case-by-case basis, using a variety of methods to suit each item. Non-porous items can be cleaned using our specialized immersion method. This is when items get immersed in a cleaning solution that helps carefully remove the residue, restoring it to like-new condition. Fabric items and upholstery get tested to ensure no damage comes to the materials, with our technicians often using soft bristle brushes to remove particles. 

So give us a call today! We are faster to any disaster and ready to get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Ask the experts: Can I Handle the cleaning on my own?

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of the nature or scope of a fire, we have the cleaning technicians equipped to handle the job. Our team is fully accredited in both Odor Control (OCT) and Fire and Smoke Restoration (FSRT). Just a sampling of the tasks we cover throughout the restoration process includes:

•   Debris removal
•   Pack out services
•   Dry vacuuming
•   Surface cleaning
•   Moisture detection
•   Soot removal
•   Controlled demolition

We Make Sure No Foul Odors Linger

For any fire damage call, addressing odors is paramount. Deodorization is a critical element of the process, no matter the severity or size of the fire loss. Burning odors and smoke can intensify without professional mitigation such as removal of charred debris and surface cleaning. Our skilled technicians remove all of the noxious odors and neutralize them with a variety of advanced equipment, such as:

•   Thermal Fogging Equipment: These are units that heat up a deodorizing compound to put a fine mist on surfaces. This compound penetrates the porous materials to trap the odors in both your contents and structural materials. 
•   Hydroxyl Generators: These units utilize UV cleaning to help neutralize odors across an open area. The equipment features a HEPA filtration system that works to cut back on harmful particulates in the air. 

When Will My Home Be Ready?

Our team does everything we can to provide you with a working timeline of the project from start to finish. The crew works according to a plan that helps us to maintain efficiency without leaving anything unattended to. The job is wrapped up with a full cleaning and deodorization to ensure everything is sanitized and safe for your family to enjoy.

So give us a call today! We are faster to any disaster and ready to get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Covid Free Home for Sale

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

It is a fact that clean, fresh smelling homes sell the fastest. It is also a fact that unfortunately not all people keep a clean home. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County has all the experience and equipment to make any house sellable.

Veteran realtors encourage clients to keep their homes in tip top shape for a few VERY important reasons:

• Increased market value
• Shortened list to sale conversion times
• Enhanced reputation for quality listings and quick sales

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County offers a variety of services to help revive your listings to top show condition:

• Carpet, Upholstery, Drapery and Blind Cleaning
• Ceiling, Wall and Hard Floor Cleaning
• Deodorization
• Duct & HVAC Cleaning
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
• Even cleaning for Covid-19

For all your cleaning and repair needs call SERVPRO of South Elkhart County at (574)533-2500 or go to our web page www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

Take Precautions

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth.  Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time.  If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly.  If there is an ongoin moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold.

• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.

• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.

• Excessive humidity.   

Mold may also start to propose health concerns.  If you feel you have mold please call.

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County has all of your Mold Remediation concerns and needs covered. Call us 24 hours at (574)533-2500 or go to our webpage at http://www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

Water Damage and you in Elkhart County

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today 574-533-2500

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through Elkhart Indiana his crisis. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time.  We treat everyone how we would want to be treated in the this difficult time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

Cleaning of the Ducts!

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County proudly serves Elkhart counties residents and businesses with a cost effective way to clean all those pesky ducts. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO of South Elkhart County uses a Portable Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

The duct cleaning process works as follows:

• The process begins by using patented equipment including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct's shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.  
• Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris  from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97% 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.

For all your Duct Cleaning needs give SERVPRO of South Elkhart County a call at (574)533-2500 or go to the webpage www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

The Mold that Surrounds you.

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Health effects may arise when excessive mold grows indoors. Molds are found in every environment, and mold spores reproduce rapidly when moisture is present. An Institute of Medicine study found excessive dampness indoors encourages the growth of molds and other organisms. The EPA advised that the potential health effects from molds are an important reason to prevent moisture problems leading to mold growth. It is especially important to clean up existing indoor mold growth to increase property appeal and retain its value. If a property has experienced a water intrusion, your SERVPRO Franchise Professional can inspect the damage to see whether moisture has penetrate materials or is allowing mold growth. However, anyone may experience health problems associated with exposure to mold in damp buildings. 

If you feel that you have an issue with mold, feel free to give SERVPRO of South Elkhart County a call and we can come take a look. 

1-574-533-2500

Mold & Insulation

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Natural disasters can leave people in a bad place! SERVPRO responded to calls of storm and water damage, they addressed evidence of mold in multiple locations. Initially, one thinks that a hurricane is going to cause destruction due to heavy winds, rains and flooding. However, the average customer doesn't even think about the mold until the rain water and flooding has done it's damage. SERVPRO responded to several jobs with mold issues after the long hours they put into storm repair. 

This picture shows water damage in a customer's ceiling, which has insulation. Since insulation has to be removed for the drying process, the SERVPRO team could take the steps needed to address the mold issue. No job is too big or too small for SERVPRO. 

Winter Storm Damage

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Warnings & Watches

Winter Storm

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

 Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

Know the Difference

Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.

Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening.

Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions.

Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

Preparing 

How to Prepare for a Winter Storm

• Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

When Winter Attacks Your Pipes!

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing

• Disconnect all gardening hoses and install covers on all outside faucets.
• Keep your house temperature at 68 degrees or higher, even if you're leaving the house for an extended period of time.
• Open cabinet doors below sinks to allow heat from the home to circulate.
• Identify the location of the main water valve and the valve on your water heater. (Learning the location of these valves may come in handy during an emergency.)
• Wrap pipes nearest exterior walls and in crawl spaces with pipe insulation or with heating tape. This can prevent freezing, especially for interior pipes that run along outside walls.
• Close all windows near water pipes; cover or close open-air vents. Freezing temperatures combined with wind drafts can cause pipes to freeze more frequently.
• Heat your basement and consider weather sealing your windows.
• Insulate outside walls and unheated areas of your home.
• If you plan to be away from home for an extended period of time, shut off water supply valves to your washing machine.

Monitor Freezing Pipe Conditions

• Allow a faucet to drip slightly (lukewarm water) in order to minimize freezing.
• The first sign of freezing is reduced water flow from a faucet.
• Check your faucets for water flow and pressure before you go to sleep and again when you wake up.
• Check pipes around your water meter, in unheated areas, near exterior walls and in crawl spaces.
• These tend to be vulnerable to freezing conditions.
• Identify cold air drafts coming in from a flue or chimney chase and caulk gaps that are near pipes. 

If a Pipe Freezes

• If a faucet or pipe inside your house freezes, you can thaw it using a good hair dryer. (For safety purposes, avoid operating a hair dryer around standing water.)
• To thaw a frozen pipe, heat water on the stove, soak towels in the hot water and wrap them around cold sections of the pipes.
• When thawing a pipe, start thawing it nearest to the faucet. Make sure the faucet is turned on so that melted water can drip out. 

 If a Pipe Bursts

• Shut off the water at the main valve.
• If the break is in a hot water pipe, the valve on top of the water heater should be closed.
• Call a plumber. Keep an emergency number nearby for quick access.

Restoring your home or business after a water damage

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Elkhart County is an IICRC firm. The institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. 

IICRC Certified Firms must

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

The IICRC Develops the Standards for the Restoration Industry

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

Call SERVPRO & Get Your Ducts In A Row!

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County proudly serves Elkhart counties residents and businesses with a cost effective way to clean all those pesky ducts. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO of South Elkhart County uses a Portable Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

The duct cleaning process works as follows:

• The process begins by using patented equipment including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct's shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.  
• Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris  from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97% 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.

For all your Duct Cleaning needs give SERVPRO of South Elkhart County a call at (574)533-2500 or go to the webpage www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

What It Takes To Be A Fungi

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified. Fungi produce some wonderful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold. Even though mold can add value to our lives, excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people. Intrusion of water into your home or place of business is an out of the ordinary event. This could result from a water intrusion, long-standing leaks or from poor humidity control. A water damage situation offers opportunities for mold spores that are normally present on surfaces to grow and multiply since moisture and humidity levels are typically higher in such structures. This is a good reason for promptly drying any water or moisture. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. A water damage left unattended for any period of time may lead to mold growth, which, in turn, can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat. SERVPRO franchise professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when moisture has been affecting an environment for a long period of time. If your property has sustained a recent waster damage, it is vital to have water removed and the structure dried promptly. If you have experienced an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert to the following factors:

• The presence of visible mold
• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might indicate previous mold growth
• Excessive humidity

Mold & You In Elkhart County

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Health concerns may arise when excessive mold grows indoors. Molds are found in every environment, and mold spores reproduce rapidly when moisture is present. An Institute of Medicine study found excessive dampness indoors encourages the growth of molds and other organisms, causing a public health problem. The EPA advised that the potential health concerns from molds are an important reason to prevent moisture problems leading to mold growth. It is especially important to clean up existing indoor mold growth to increase property appeal and retain its value. If a property has experienced a water intrusion, your SERVPRO Franchise Professional can inspect the damage to see whether moisture has penetrate materials or is allowing mold growth. However, anyone may experience health problems associated with exposure to mold in damp buildings. 

If you feel that you have an issue with mold, feel free to give SERVPRO of South Elkhart County a call and we can come take a look. 

1-574-533-2500

Faster Is Important When Seconds Count!

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

When a flood or other water damage strikes your business or the home of a customer, a myriad of urgent questions arise. If a business was damaged, is the inventory and office equipment safe? What do you tell your customers? When can you reopen?

And if a home was damaged, is it safe to stay in the house? how can the residents protect their belongings, and when will their lives be back to normal? The questions, doubts and fears can be overwhelming to people trying to piece their homes and business back together.

The last thing on the business owner's or homeowner's mind will be tending to the very thing that may help their respective properties the most: Psychrometrics. Also casually known as "The science of drying". Psychrometrics is the study of the air, humidity, and temperature, and their affect on various materials.

Top ways to Prevent a Christmas Tree Fire

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

Here is a list from the NFPA and FEMA's U.S. Fire Administration:

• When choosing a tree, look for the one that is fresh and has green needles that don't fall out. Brownish needles mean the tree is dried out and more prone to catch fire.
• Water your tree daily to prevent it from drying out.
• Check the manufacturer's labels to ensure you use only lights and decorations that are flame-retardant. Look for a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories, Intertek or the Canadian Standards Association, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
•  Check holiday lights for frayed wires or excessive wear.
• Don't connect more than three strands of mini-string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs
• Keep your tree at least 3 feet away from any heat source, such as a fireplace, radiator, candles or lights.
• Make sure your tree is not blocking an exit. In case there is a fire, you want a way to get out.
• Always turn off lights on a tree before going to bed or leaving your home.
• Get rid of a tree when its needles start dropping. It means the tree is drying out.
• Check that your smoke alarm is working properly.

Call your Local SERVPRO of South Elkhart County at 574-533-2500 or go to our webpage at http://www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

Storm Damage Season

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

24 Hour Emergency Service

Flooding, water emergencies, and storm damage do not wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of South Elkhart county provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

Need Emergency Service? Call us 24/7 - (574)533-2500

Faster to Any Size Emergency

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 United States and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your propertyand being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and many other things. SERVPRO of South Elkhart county arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1-24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 hours- 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically. Replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants. 

What Type of Damage Can Cold Weather Storms Cause

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Cold-weather storms can cause just as much damage to your building as thunderstorms or tornadoes. While a blizzard may not cause rain flooding, it can introduce other issues for your property:

• Burst pipe
• Collapsed roof
• Ice buildup

Your storm damage restoration professional may be able to go over other types of damage common in the winter months.

Plumbing Issues

When the temperatures drop below freezing, your pipes may be at risk for freezing up. This is especially true for any plumbing in exterior walls. If you don't heat your entire building, you may have an even higher risk of getting a frozen pipe somewhere on your property. When the liquid within the piping freezes, it expands. This can cause cracks to form, which can lead to leaks and floods.

Roofing Problems

Winter storms are often associated with high winds that can cause roof damage. If parts of your roofing system are torn off, it can expose the plumbing in your attic to the cold weather. This can lead to a burst pipe, but a damaged roof can invite other moisture into your space as well. For example, the weight of the snow on your roof can cause a collapse, which sends lots of snow into your building.

Ice buildup is another common roofing problem caused by winter storms. The snow accumulates on your roof. As the weather warms up, the snow at the peaks starts to melt first. Once the melt reaches the edges of the roof, it may start to freeze again. This cycle causes the formation of ice dams, which can lead to standing water in your commercial building.

Winter storms can be unkind to your commercial building. Knowing that you may have to deal with a burst pipe or another source of flooding during the winter can help you prepare for the worst eventuality.

September is National Preparedness Month

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

September is recognized as National Preparedness Month to remind everyone that “we must all take action, now and throughout the year, for the types of emergencies that could affect us where we live, work, and also where we visit,” (ready.gov).

With the recent flooding in Louisiana in mind, the last thing you want to worry about is how to communicate and what to do during a disaster like this horrific event that killed hundreds and left many families without homes.

What you can do:

• Make A Family Plan – you may not be together with your family during a disaster.
  • Set up emergency alerts from local officials
  • Discuss family plans for disasters and plan where to go for safety.
  • Collect information on paper including, phone numbers, emails, social media, medical facilities, doctors, service providers, school
  • Decide on safe, familiar places where your family can go for protection and if you have pets think about animal-friendly locations
• Take Action – ensure you can go for at least 3 days without electricity, water service, access to supermarket, or other local services
  • Prepare a disaster supply kit (water, food, battery-powered radio, flashlight, first aid kit, whistle, local maps)
  • Bookmark weather.gov to stay informed on severe weather
  • Learn about wireless emergency alerts, messages that will be sent to your phone during an emergency

Consider the following disasters that can occur at any time: Learn more about hazards which can affect your community and ways you can take action to prepare.

• Earthquakes – can occur suddenly and be deadly. Most earthquake-related casualties result from collapsing walls, flying glass, and falling objects.
• Floods - Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States and can happen anywhere.
• Hurricanes - have the power to cause widespread devastation, and can affect both coastal and inland areas.
• Tornadoes - are one of nature’s most violent storms, and can cause death, injury, and destruction within seconds.
• Wildfires - can occur anywhere and can destroy homes, businesses, infrastructure, natural resources, and agriculture

Take Precautions

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when moisture has been affecting an environment for a long period of time. If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to have water removed and the structure dried promptly. If you have experienced an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert to the following factors:

The presence of visible mold

Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.

Any evidence of past moisture problems that might indicate previous mold growth.

Excessive humidity.

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems. 

Control Moisture, Reduce Mold

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

Prior to listing a property, the following steps can be taken to reduce the potential for moisture buildup or mold growth. Should a damage event occur, timely response is the key to preventing further damage. Act within the first 24 to 48 hours.

• Correct any water leaks or standing water.
• Remove standing water under cooling coils or air handling units.
• Properly maintain humidifiers, if used.
• Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation materials
• Steam cleaning and other methods involving moisture should not be used on any kind of duct work.
• Install a ventilation system.

Cleaning your ducts and HVAC can also help prevent mold from spreading. It can also reduce allergens and pet dander in the air. It may also eliminate some offensive odors you may have in the house. Cleaning the system will also improve the operating conditions and efficiency of your furnace and air conditioning. Which in return will result in less maintenance and/or breakages in the future. 

Call the cleanup team that's faster to any sized disaster.

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

When a flood or other water damage strikes your business or the home of a customer, a myriad of urgent questions arise. If a business was damaged, is the inventory and office equipment safe? What do you tell your customers? When can you reopen?

And if a home was damaged, is it safe to stay in the house? how can the residents protect their belongings, and when will their lives be back to normal? The questions, doubts and fears can be overwhelming to people trying to piece their homes and business back together.

The last thing on the business owner's or homeowner's mind will be tending to the very thing that may help their respective properties the most: Psychrometrics. Also casually known as "The science of drying". Psychrometrics is the study of the air, humidity, and temperature, and their affect on various materials.

Understanding Mold

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified. Fungi produce some wonderful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is imply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold. Even though mold can add value to our lives, excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people. Intrusion of water into your home or place of business is an out of the ordinary event. This could result from a water intrusion, long-standing leaks or from poor humidity control. A water damage situation offers opportunities for mold spores that are normally present on surfaces to grow and multiply since moisture and humidity levels are typically higher in such structures. This is a good reason for promptly drying any water or moisture. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. A water damage left unattended for any period of time may lead to mold growth, which, in turn, can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat. SERVPRO franchise professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when moisture has been affecting an environment for a long period of time. If your property has sustained a recent waster damage, it is vital to have water removed and the structure dried promptly. If you have experienced an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert to the following factors:

• The presence of visible mold
• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might indicate previous mold growth
• Excessive humidity

Health Concerns of Mold

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

Health concerns may arise when excessive mold grows indoors. Molds are found in every environment, and mold spores reproduce rapidly when moisture is present. An Institute of Medicine study found excessive dampness indoors encourages the growth of molds and other organisms, causing a public health problem. The EPA advised that the potential health concerns from molds are an important reason to prevent moisture problems leading to mold growth. It is especially important to clean up existing indoor mold growth to increase property appeal and retain its value. If a property has experienced a water intrusion, your SERVPRO Franchise Professional can inspect the damage to see whether moisture has penetrate materials or is allowing mold growth. However, anyone may experience health problems associated with exposure to mold in damp buildings. 

If you feel that you have an issue with mold, feel free to give SERVPRO of South Elkhart County a call and we can come take a look. 

1-574-533-2500

Winter Storm Damage

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Now that the weather has turned cold, it can wreck havoc on your house if it is not properly cared for. the cold weather is notorious for freezing and/or bursting water and sewage pipes.

Outdoor pipes most likely to freeze may include:

Hose bibs

Swimming pool supply lines

Water sprinkler lines

Other lines to keep and eye on in partially heated areas may include areas like:

Garages

Crawl spaces

Basements

Well Houses

Other problems the winter weather may cause could be ice dams on your roof. An ice dam is formed when snow melts unevenly on a roof and refreezes into a dam at the edge of the roof, near the eaves. This dam prevents any further snow melt from draining off of the roof. This standing water can back up under shingles, leak into a home, and cause significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and other areas. Ice dams can also tear off gutters and loosen shingles.

10 ways to prevent Christmas tree fires

11/15/2017 (Permalink)

Here is a list from the NFPA and FEMA's U.S. Fire Administration:

• When choosing a tree, look for the one that is fresh and has green needles that don't fall out. Brownish needles mean the tree is dried out and more prone to catch fire.
• Water your tree daily to prevent it from drying out.
• Check the manufacturer's labels to ensure you use only lights and decorations that are flame-retardant. Look for a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories, Intertek or the Canadian Standards Association, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
•  Check holiday lights for frayed wires or excessive wear.
• Don't connect more than three strands of mini-string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs
• Keep your tree at least 3 feet away from any heat source, such as a fireplace, radiator, candles or lights.
• Make sure your tree is not blocking an exit. In case there is a fire, you want a way to get out.
• Always turn off lights on a tree before going to bed or leaving your home.
• Get rid of a tree when its needles start dropping. It means the tree is drying out.
• Check that your smoke alarm is working properly.

Call your Local SERVPRO of South Elkhart County at 574-533-2500 or go to our webpage at http://www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

Holiday Kitchen Safety

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know there are more residential fires on Thanksgiving Day than any other day of the year? Not to be surprised but most of these accidents were on the stove or in the oven and were caused by being left unattended. To help keep this problem from happening in your home and ruining your holiday SERVPRO has formed a list for your safety. 

• Stay in the kitchen when your are frying, grilling or boiling food. If you leave the kitchen, even for a short time, TURN OFF THE STOVE.
• Keep everything that can catch fire- potholders, towels or curtains- away from your stove.
• Have a "kid free zone" of at least three feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
• Always keep an oven mitt and a lid nearby when you are cooking. If a small grease fire starts in a pan, put on an oven mitt and smother the flames by carefully sliding the lid over the pan. Turn off the burner. 
• Never use a wet oven mitt, as it presents a scald danger if the moisture in the mitt is heated. 
• Have a smoke alarm installed in your kitchen. Ensure it is in working order. 

For all your clean up and restoration needs call SERVPRO of South Elkhart County @ 574-533-2500 or go to our website  www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

Children and fire

9/6/2017 (Permalink)

EDUCATING KIDS AND FIRE

• Keepmatches andlighters in a secured drawer or cabinet.
• Have your children tell you when they find matches or lighters.
• Develop a home fire escape plan, practice it with your children and designate a meeting place outside.
• Supervise young children closely. Do not leave them alone even for short periods of time.
• Take the mystery out of fire by teaching children fire is a tool, not a toy.
• Teach children the nature of fire. It is FAST, HOT, DARK and DEADLY.
• Educate on how to stop, drop and roll if their clothes are on fire.
• Show children how to crawl low on the floor, below the smoke, to get out of the house and stay out in case of fire.
• Teach children not to hide or be afraid of firefighters.

Call your local SERVPRO of South Elkhart County at (574)533-2500 or go to our webpage at http://SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.comfor all your fire and restoration needs.

Local Business fire

6/30/2017 (Permalink)

Crews fighting the mulch fire at Green Stream Recycling

Green Stream Recycling had a mulch pile catch fire on Monday, June 26th. Although the place was a total loss, we seen an opportunity to help our local firefighters while they fought this blaze. We dropped off four truck loads of gatorade and water for them to stay hydrated. Many of the firefighters came straight from work to fight the fire. So they had no food or drinks. Many of the fire departments were there for many hours running tanker trucks to deliver water from the local river. They reported that over 1 Million gallons of water was transported to put the fire out. We appreciate everything our local fire departments do and risk their lives everyday. We figured this was the least we could to show our appreciation and stay out of the way to let them do what they needed to do. Again, we thank you guys for your heroic acts and glad everybody did it safely!

Helping Schools provide clean, healthy environments for our children

5/30/2017 (Permalink)

Educational institutions can depend on SERVPRO of South Elkhart County for fast, thorough service in the event of fire, water or mold damage. With 24- hour emergency response, SERVPRO of South Elkhart County provides mitigation, cleanup and restoration services to reduce recovery costs and to help ensure minimal interruption to your curriculum. Expert cleaning for emergencies or special needs extends routine janitorial capabilities, including stain removal, upholstery and drapery dry cleaning, indoor air quality and vandalism cleanup. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County has trained certified technicians to clean and sanitize building materials, surfaces and contents following restoration industry standards, using professional cleaning products and EPA registered cleaners and disinfectants.    

For all your cleaning and restoration needs call (574)533-2500 or go to the webpage www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com 

Duct Cleaning

5/16/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County proudly serves Elkhart counties residents and businesses with a cost effective way to clean all those pesky ducts. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO of South Elkhart County uses a Portable Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

The duct cleaning process works as follows:

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


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


• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97% 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.

For all your Duct Cleaning needs give SERVPRO of South Elkhart County a call at (574)533-2500 or go to the webpage www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

Clean Homes Sell Faster

5/2/2017 (Permalink)

It is a fact that clean, fresh smelling homes sell the fastest. It is also a fact that unfortunately not all people keep a clean home. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County has all the experience and equipment to make any house sellable.

Veteran realtors encourage clients to keep their homes in tip top shape for a few VERY important reasons:

• Increased market value
• Shortened list to sale conversion times
• Enhanced reputation for quality listings and quick sales

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County offer a variety of services to help revive your listings to top show condition:

• Carpet, Upholstery, Drapery and Blind Cleaning
•  Ceiling, Wall and Hard Floor Cleaning
• Deodorization
• Duct & HVAC Cleaning
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

For all your cleaning and repair needs call SERVPRO of South Elkhart County at (574)533-2500 or go to our web page www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

Take Precautions

4/17/2017 (Permalink)

This is what mold can do when left untreated.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth.  Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time.  If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly.  If there is an ongoin moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold.


• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.


• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.


• Excessive humidity.   

Mold may also start to propose health concerns.  If you feel you have mold please call.

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County has all of your Mold Remediation concerns and needs covered. Call us 24 hours at (574)533-2500 or go to our webpage at http://www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com

Your home is your safe haven

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

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

We at  SERVPRO of South Elkhart County understand how disruptive water damages can be for your entire family and will help ensure the water is identified, regardless of where it hides. SERVPRO of South Elkhart County are those Professionals. We are proudly serving our Elkhart County residents 24 hours a day. To reach us day or night, rain or shine call (574)533-2500 or go to our webpage at http://www.SERVPROsouthelkhartcounty.com.

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service in Elkhart County

1/18/2017 (Permalink)

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service in Elkhart County

Water Damage

SERVPRO of South Elkhart County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today 574-533-2500

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through Elkhart Indiana his crisis. SERVPRO of South  has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.