Mitigating and Restoring Harrisonburg Water Damage

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's advanced equipment mitigates the water damage in Harrisonburg homes "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Responds Fast to Water Damage Concerns

Urgent action is necessary for many situations involving water and leaks in your home. Mitigation is vital to protecting the property and its contents from the irreparable harm resulting from unresolved water emergencies. Initial actions to recover residences after disasters can include:

• Water Removal
• Content Cleaning
• Controlled Demolition
• Mold Prevention

No mitigation for Harrisonburg water damage is efficient without getting the process started as soon as possible. Because each of these elements is unique to the overall restoration of a house, SERVPRO professionals can respond at the first notice of loss with our Green Fleet of service vehicles, production trucks, and trailered equipment. 

Focusing on Rapid Containment

Containment is one of the first actions that our professionals will take after situations like burst pipes or water leaks. Protecting areas of the house not yet damaged by migrating moisture and standing water concerns is essential. While physical barriers can be partially responsible for stopping water movement in the home, mitigating steps like water removal services instantly benefit the property and at-risk building materials.

Needed Extraction Solutions

Water removal services provide the most trackable and recognizable impact to improve conditions in a structure after water emergencies. Eliminating surface water is the utmost priority for our team, as prolonged exposures can compromise structural integrity, cosmetic quality, or allow secondary effects like mold. Tools used include:

• Submersibles - These machines are meant to be dropped into standing water and use high-pressure vacuum systems to pull water through the unit and discharge it to a designated point. 
• Vacuums - These portable extractors eliminate surface water when it is only a couple of inches in depth or less. The versatility of vacuums makes them a preferred water removal tool. 
• Special Tools - When vacuums and pumps are no longer effective, specialty tools like weighted extractors and light wands help when water becomes trapped.

Effective Drying for the Structure

Much like extraction, drying requires several tools and approaches to be successful. Our SERVPRO IICRC-certified professionals rapidly evaluate environmental conditions and the state of impacted building materials to provide the best solutions for issues like:

• Wet Surfaces - Surface water is among the easiest to target and resolve. Air movers and portable heaters are essential tools for the effective evaporation of wet surfaces. We can daisy chain multiple air movers together to lessen the need for available outlets.
• Trapped Water - Water can migrate through the property quickly, infiltrating areas like structural cavities and becoming trapped. Weep holes allow for drainage and airflow, but it will be positive and negative pressure systems to have a direct impact on this threat.
• Saturation Damage - Prolonged moisture exposure to porous materials leads to absorption concerns. Drying mats and other evaporative equipment can help pull moisture to the surface for extraction. This is especially effective with wood flooring water damage, allowing us to protect planks from becoming distorted or warping when water chemically alters the molecular composition.

Is SERVPRO Ready for Repairs and Build-Back?

Our general contractor license is among the main advantages of looking to SERVPRO for post-water damage repairs and restoration. Because these emergencies typically require rebuilding or reconstructing impacted areas, this experienced division of our roster seamlessly transitions to post-restoration construction.

Harrisonburg water damage incidents require swift action from experienced restoration professionals. As leading restorers for the large service region we represent, we are a trusted name to help in an emergency to make it "Like it never even happened." Give our SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties team a call at (540) 433-6100.

Working Through Harrisonburg Fire Damage In Several Phases

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

Have a fire damaged home in Harrisonburg? Call SERVPRO to make it appear "Like it never even happened."

Needed Restoration After Fire Damages

Across the nation, it is estimated that more than 350,000 house fires occur every year. Varying degrees of damage might not always warrant the full designation of a structure fire, but the frequency of these emergencies requires our SERVPRO team to stay prepared.

To recover after Harrison residential fire and smoke damage in a residence, our responding technicians must offer:

• Emergency Services – The first step our team can take in disaster relief is protecting the structure and its contents through pre-inspection board-up, air filtration, and debris removal.
• Mitigative Strategies – Mitigation follows emergency services and coincides with a detailed record of the damage to the property and the necessary steps to restore the residence. From water removal to content management, mitigation is a critical process.
• Cleaning Needs – Surface cleaning and soot removal are one of the universal needs after a fire. We have powerful cleaners and solvents to help achieve this. 
• Repairing the Structure – Structure fires are known for their destructive impact on the building. Combustion creates situations where extensive build-back services are necessary to return a property to preloss condition.

Harrisonburg fire damage events require a team of restoration professionals capable of making fast changes and navigating hundreds of restoration questions and obstacles. From the first notice of loss, our SERVPRO professionals are beginning to provide necessary restoration and mitigation solutions.

Can Emergency Services Help Fire Damaged Homes?

Emergency services are a combination of the earliest efforts to prevent situations like structural collapse or hazardous conditions for occupants or responding technicians. The urgency of these actions often has them preceding pre-job scoping.

How Does Fire Damage Mitigation Occur?

Mitigation is one of the more critical restoration phases, as it seeks to resolve pressing concerns that threaten the structure and its occupants. This can include the careful management of damaged contents and personal belongings. Mitigative actions can also describe needed efforts for removing water after extinguishment.

Focused Cleaning After Fire Damage

Cleaning is a way to return a property to its original condition. There are dozens of proven approaches, much of which are created to overcome formidable effects like soot and smoke damage.

• Removing Smoke Soils and Soot – Residues can be a difficult obstacle to overcome, especially in wet environments. We have multiple products to help emulsify or dissolve soil deposits. 
• Deep Carpet Cleaning – Hot water extraction cleaning breaks sediment loose at the base of carpeted flooring and removes it with the high-powered onboard vacuum.
• Deodorization – We must also work to eliminate overwhelming and offensive odors that have developed in the living space. These smells do not naturally dissipate, so direct action with deodorants and neutralizing tools is necessary.

Post-Fire Build-Back Services

Structures fires can be disruptive and destructive. Damage to construction materials and the house assemblies is expected, so we arrive with experienced professionals that can help. We have a general contractor license to perform needed build-back services after home fire damage. From the initially controlled demolition to the reinstallation of missing structural elements to return a property to its original condition, we can seamlessly transition to repairs and reconstruction after restoration.

Harrisonburg fire damage can result from many different sources, making it vital to have experienced professionals ready to respond at all times. We are preferred insurance vendors to complete damage claim work for homes and businesses. Give our SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties team a call when you need us at (540) 433-6100.

Call SERVPRO for Harrisburg Mold Inspection and Cleanup

4/9/2023 (Permalink)

Finding mold on your property does not need to be overwhelming. Contact SERVPRO to assess and remediate the mold damage. We are standing by 24/7.

Hire Skilled Mold Remediation with SERVPRO

There may be times you look around your Harrisburg home and notice increased humidity or musty odors. Whenever you suspect mold growth, you must proceed with caution. While you may be tempted to begin DIY cleanup, once spores are disturbed, they can become airborne and create a much more significant issue. Hiring skilled technicians from SERVPRO for inspection and remediation is the best way to get safe, efficient results.

Suspected mold damage in Harrisburg calls for detailed inspection and planning to return your interior to preloss condition. These are a couple of steps that we suggest once you suspect microbial growth is developing anywhere in your home:

What to Do:

• Contact our SERVPRO customer care team for mold remediation services
• Stay out of any affected areas to eliminate the possibility of disturbing the colony
• Shut off your fans or HVAC system

What Not to Do:

• Never disturb or touch the mold.
• Avoid blowing over surfaces with suspected or visible microbial growth.
• Refrain from attempting to begin drying any damp areas on your own.
• It is never advised to spray disinfectants or bleach on the mold. Many people do not realize that such an application causes mold to spread away from it.

Contact Skilled SERVPRO Technicians for Trusted Results

Our IICRC-certified technicians have the training and advanced equipment to handle any size or scope mold remediation project. We will assess the damage, take samples for further analysis, and begin containment and drying to return your home to pre-mold condition.

• Advanced drying technology like fans and dehumidifiers help to lower interior relative humidity 
• Moisture detection sensors and meters help our team t locate any areas with hidden pockets of moisture
• Powerful disinfectants and EPA-registered cleaning agents to safely sanitize all surfaces

Calling in the pros is easy when you have 24/7 availability from SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties. Contact us online to request help or call our offices at (540) 433-6100, and we can send a crew to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Efficient Water Damage Repair in Harrisonburg Business Premises

3/6/2023 (Permalink)

All you need is SERVPRO for all your water damage needs.

Likely Steps to Fix Water Damage in Harrisonburg

Different signs can alert you if there is a water intrusion at your property. You may have noticed physical changes such as water stains on the ceiling of your Harrisonburg office or other problems like pooling water that seems to return even after cleaning it up. These changes precede water damage, and it is crucial to fix them immediately. Even if there are no apparent damages, you should seek professional intervention since a professional can establish what lies behind that small leak you may be overlooking. When left untreated, water damage can become bigger and spread from room to room. The best way to ensure efficient water damage restoration is by engaging a professional company like SERVPRO.

The main benefit of choosing a water damage repair company in Harrisonburg is their superior inspection and assessment services. This reveals the source of the damage, the conditions of the structural materials such as drywall, and whether the issue spreads to utilities such as electrical systems. Some parts can suffer immense damage, especially from mold growth which is the most common outcome of water damage. SERVPRO restoration crews are proficient in taking remediation measures to prevent microbial growth.

Steps to take in the water damage repair process include:

• Water Extraction
• Dehumidification
• Odor control
• Repairs and restoration

Removing the water can be tricky, especially when there is extensive flooding or under special circumstances, such as when your office space has a wall-to-wall carpet. SERVPRO crews utilize various approaches for efficient water removal. Specialized extraction units like deep extraction tools, light wands, and submersible pumps facilitate extraction in different circumstances. We also perform structural drying by installing dehumidification equipment in affected areas to speed up recovery and sanitization to prevent microbial growth and rotting.

Repairing Damages

Our SERVPRO team can salvage many structural components and equipment in your business where possible. Repair work may differ depending on the extent of the damage.

Repairs may include:

• Replacing wet drywall
• Fixing damaged floors and ceilings
• Restoring electrical systems
• Restoring furniture

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties has the expertise and equipment to safely handle any water damage repairs in your commercial space. Call us at (540) 433-6100. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Why You Need Expert Fire Damage Repair in Harrisonburg

2/3/2023 (Permalink)

If you find yourself in need of assistance with fire damage remediation, call SERVPRO.

Fire Damage in Harrisonburg Homes Calls for SERVPRO’s Help

A fire can ruin various parts of your home differently, and each might require specific cleaning, restoration, and rebuilding strategies. In some situations, you may not see the extent of the damage, like when it occurred in areas such as behind walls or the attic. 

Competent restorers can identify the degree of damage and offer you an overview of the contents and areas of your house that can be restored. You can trust SERVPRO to handle the fire damage in your Harrisonburg residence competently. Your situation is unique, but our restoration experts can take these standard steps to restore your property. 

• Perform an inspection
• Prevent additional damage
• Clean-up
• Repair and reconstruction

Perform an Inspection

Our SERVPRO technicians can evaluate the damage extent to your house and its contents to determine what we can salvage. As we conduct the inspection, we can also test rooms for soot damage using specialized tools. After the initial assessment, we can explain our cleaning process and offer an overview of how long the restoration process might take. 

Prevent Additional Damage 

It is our priority to prevent further destruction to your house. Our restorers can quickly remove your home’s contents because leaving them long in affected areas makes it more challenging to clean them. The fire may have caused leaks in your home. In that case, we can remove the water using pumps and dry the affected surfaces with air movers and dehumidifiers. 

Clean-up

The destruction a fire, smoke, and water cause can quickly increase. Therefore, our SERVPRO team can use various cleaning equipment and agents to salvage flooring, furniture, and other items affected by smoke, water, and soot. We can eliminate smoke residues from your home’s interior and exterior surfaces. The residues usually give off smoke smells. Therefore our technicians can also use deodorizing products like odor counteractants to neutralize odors. 

Repair and Reconstruction

SERVPRO can work to get you back into your home by repairing or reinstalling floor coverings and floors, installing tack strips, and replacing or repairing subfloors. 

Don’t hesitate to seek help from SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties after fire damage. Our 24-hour helpline is (540) 433-6100.

Dealing with Water Damage in Harrisonburg Properties

1/4/2023 (Permalink)

Regardless the magnitude of water damage our technicians provide complete water removal services, including extraction, cleaning, drying, & repairs.

Impactful Water Restoration in a Harrisonburg Home

Light rain storms are mostly relaxing, especially during the weekends, as you cozy up next to the fireplace with delicious treats and a good book. But heavy rains and storms can ruin all that excitement. Nothing is more discouraging than a leaking roof or window that damps your floors.

One structural area that can trigger costly water damage in a Harrisonburg home after an intense storm is the roof. One crack on the roof can allow moisture to penetrate the home’s attic and top floors leading to further internal damage to your ceilings and walls. The moisture may cause the wood on the roof or attic floor to rot, destabilizing the structure. Wet wood with sheetrock attached acts as a moisture reservoir. When the sheetrock is not dried quickly, it may crack and fall apart, leaving a hole in your ceiling. SERVPRO responds quickly to water damage incidents helping you avoid costly repairs through mitigation.

Simple actions to minimize the damaging effects of moisture:

• Cleaning gutters regularly
• Repairing loose shingles
• Sealing basements

Heavy rains can flood the basement. The moisture can seep through unsealed windows before finding a way to the basement. The ground surrounding your home should slope downward away from the foundation. If not, the rainwater can puddle around your home, causing moisture to seep into the ground and crack the foundation. Water can leak through the cracks in your basement, damaging any stored items significantly.

Hidden dangers of moisture in the basement:

• Electrical threats
• Mold
• Structural damage

Suppose water enters your home during heavy rains. In that case, whether in the basement or crawl space, SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties provides efficient water damage cleanup and improves ventilation throughout the home to minimize mold growth. Call us at (540) 433-6100. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Water Restoration in Your Harrisonburg Residence is Better with SERVPRO

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO understands how important your home is. Let us help you out.

Get a Professional for Water Restoration in Harrisonburg

Home maintenance is a homeowner's most considerable responsibility regarding repairs, remodeling, and even protection against disasters. However, dealing with water damage is more challenging. When left untreated and unchecked, it increases the chances of weakening the structural integrity of a house.

SERVPRO has a fully equipped group of vehicles for water restoration in affected Harrisonburg homes. The damage can come from the outside of the house or the inside. Damage can also happen because of water entering a house due to faulty structures. On the other hand, interior water damage may result from leaks and cracks in fixtures, appliances, and systems like plumbing, shower, and bathtubs.

For SERVPRO technicians to complete the restoration process in the best way possible, we take several steps, including the following: 

• Performing an inspection to evaluate the damage.
• Water mitigation to reduce the amount of damage that can happen to your home.
• Drying and dehumidification to eliminate water vapor.
• Deodorization to remove unpleasant odors. 

Our initial steps mainly involve extracting standing water and removing affected items and materials from the house to restore the salvageable ones and dispose of the rest. After this, we ensure that our technicians' work site is safe. This process involves combining different techniques and equipment, depending on the situation. Some of the equipment our SERVPRO team can use in this stage include dehumidifiers, hydroxyl generators, and disinfectants to kill airborne microorganisms.

When we complete the restoration, SERVPRO can install additional ventilation systems to ensure the air is always fresh. We can also install flooring materials that can withstand moisture and apply mold-resistant paints to safeguard your house's safety in case a disaster strikes again.

Contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100 for efficient water removal services. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

SERVPRO is Among the Premier Mold Removal Companies in Harrisonburg

11/2/2022 (Permalink)

Looking for a restoration company? Look no further, SERVPRO is just a call away at (540) 433-6100.

How Mold Removal Companies in Harrisonburg Help Homeowners 

Mold is a problem that comes up after water damage. It affects the aesthetic appeal of the affected materials and can cause bad odors on your property or impact overall indoor air quality. Mold can be difficult to control. That’s why you need help from professional restorers.

The cleaning step is vital to deter mold growth, but you also need a detailed inspection of your home. SERVPRO is one of the leading mold removal companies in Harrisonburg. Trusting us to remediate the mold can ensure you do not have to handle such an issue in the future. The signs of mold in a home include:

• Visible mold
• Warped materials
• Water damage
• Musty odors
• Rust

Our SERVPRO technicians can take several steps to remediate mold. They include: 

Identifying the Water Issue

Identifying and repairing the water problem that caused mold growth is critical. Moisture offers mold spores the ideal environment to grow. Our team can eliminate the moisture problem using water removal tools. 

Isolation 

After removing the water source, our team can isolate the affected area to prevent mold from spreading to unaffected areas of your home. We can seal windows or other openings to isolate the area. 

Removing Ruined Materials 

We can remove affected porous materials like carpets, insulation, and drywall. Our SERVPRO team can carefully bag up the affected materials and dispose of them properly. 

Cleaning 

Our team can spray the affected area with biocides so that the mold does not reproduce. During application, we use methods and quantities that allow the solution to contact all the contaminated surfaces and materials. We can use a HEPA vacuum to trap and filter small particles from non-porous surfaces and keep them contained for disposal.

Drying 

To eliminate moisture, we can dry all affected materials. We can use air movers to increase evaporation at the surface level and dehumidifiers to remove water vapor from the air. 

If you are worried about mold in your property, SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is there to help you remediate it. Call us today at (540) 433-6100.

SERVPRO Delivers Fire Damage Restoration Services in Harrisonburg

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

With advanced equipment, SERVPRO restores property to pre-damaged conditions, "Like it never even happened."

Put SERVPRO on Your Fire Damage Restoration Team in Harrisonburg

A successful business operating in Harrisonburg knows it takes a team to succeed. Employees, suppliers, shippers, financial support, and loyal customers are team players and stakeholders that help you succeed and grow your business. Recovering from a disaster like a fire also takes a team approach to ensure that your business recovers and returns to full operation as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO has assisted many commercial clients in Harrisonburg with fire damage restoration. We work closely with the client, their insurance company, and the adjuster, providing cleanup after a fire and coordinating trades such as electricians, plumbers, flooring, drywall, and many others to help our customers return to operation as quickly as possible. We can also help with temporary arrangements during the repair and restoration phase.

We respond within four hours from your call on a 24/7 basis. Our technicians assess the damage and, in conjunction with our clients and their insurance adjuster, formulate a fire damage restoration plan to begin recovery from the fire. Every fire event is different, and our restoration work is customized for each situation. Our activities may include the removal of fire-damaged products and structures, smoke residue removal and odor removal, cleaning, and staging goods, materials that can be saved, etc.

SERVPRO coordinates an extensive building and reconstruction team that is available to address our customers' needs. With SERVPRO coordinating these activities, trades, and professionals, your business can be returned to full service quickly, saving time and managing your recovery costs.

The fire damage restoration services include the following:

• Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and Cleanup
• Smoke Remediation
• Water and Fire Damage Restoration

Call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties for commercial fire damage restoration services. We provide service to Harrisonburg and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (540) 433-6100.

Setting a Drying Goal for Flood Damage in Harrisonburg Shops

8/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO commercial damage restoration services are top-notch. We are here to help.

Establishing Timelines for Flood Damage Restoration

From the time disasters first strike shops and stores, it is essential to get professionals moving to help. Flooding can be destructive, and our SERVPRO team has effective products and techniques to protect:

• Inventory
• Equipment
• Furniture
• Soft Materials
• Flooring

How Damaged Is the Shop?

An early inspection of the flood damage in Harrisonburg shops can help to determine what must be done to overcome these threats. Because water is one of the most destructive properties of the flooding your business might suffer, we can track moisture movement to see where hidden damp caches might exist in wall systems or flooring. Fully learning the scope of the damage can help create a more accurate estimation and drying goal.

Calculated Drying

A significant component to setting and keeping drying estimates for your property is carefully placing air movers and other drying equipment. We have hundreds of air movers in our inventory, allowing us to meet the Large Loss needs of stores and other commercial properties. Initial estimations are based on calculations made by our crew chief about the best placement of evaporative drying tools and connected water removal instruments.

Documenting and Tracking Progress

Perhaps the most important aspect of setting and keeping a drying goal is continually monitoring the progress of drying tools and reporting findings to related parties. Tracking the effectiveness of air movers and dehumidifiers helps determine when movement is needed or when additional units could benefit the business. Ultimately, it is the focus of SERVPRO restorers to provide the most efficient and satisfactory results.

When a disaster threatens your business, you want to know when you can expect the doors to open again. Since some shops never reopen after flood damage, our SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties team prioritizes immediate action to protect the structure and your inventory from irreparable harm. Call us now at (540) 433-6100.

Harrisonburg Warehouse Water Removal Tools for Large Loss Events

8/3/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage restoration is no easy task. Call SERVPRO for fast and immediate service.

Effective Water Removal Tools

Choosing the right extraction and water removal tools for Large Loss scenarios is vital. Our fast response can get mitigation started quickly, and our knowledge to select the right tools can keep your warehouse safer from irreparable harm.

Identifying the Source of the Damage

To begin water removal in Harrisonburg warehouses and production facilities, SERVPRO must identify the source of the disaster. Stopping continued water flow into the work area is critical to managing the mitigative processes.

Truck-Mount Extraction

Powerful extraction is vital to remove surface water surrounding equipment and wares in the building. When several inches of water are in the work areas, SERVPRO turns to the extraction workhorse in our Green Fleet - the truck-mount extractor. This engine-driven pump can effectively move hundreds of gallons of standing water a minute, rapidly managing pressing concerns. Additionally, technicians can run the unit with additional attachments such as:

• Weighted Extraction
• Carpet Wands
• Squeegee Wands

Portable Wet Vacuums

Wet vacuums are the most portable and versatile of all extraction and water removal tools in our inventory. Not only do these units manage standing water independently, but you can also utilize several attachments like carpet wands to improve their focused water removal further. Wet vacuums can be moved easily from one work site to the next, allowing fast and continuous extraction.

Tools for Special Circumstances

We have multiple tools for specific water removal needs, such as weighted extractors and carpet wands for wet carpeted floors. Similarly, drying mats can be effective to use on wood and vinyl flooring installed in the offices of the warehouse. If water remains trapped, it can lead to mold development, so our SERVPRO team works fast to overcome these risks.

Water removal can be a complex service we provide, especially with Large Loss needs. There are several tools related to this process to remove as much water as possible from the warehouse to restore the structure fully. Give our SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties a call when your business suffers water damage at (540) 433-6100.

Cleaning Staunton Home Smoke Damages During Fire Restoration

8/3/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration for your home is no DIY task. SERVPRO will be on-site within 4 hours of the initial call.

Smoke Damage Requires Prompt Fire Restoration

Resolving smoke issues is one of the priorities of post-fire recovery. To determine the best approach for cleaning and restoration, SERVPRO professionals must investigate the source of the disaster and evaluate the type of smoke damage left behind. Typically, Rockingham and Augusta County homes experience three types of smoke damage:

• Dry Smoke Residues
• Wet Smoke/Moist Soils
• Protein Residues

Dry Residues

Residual deposits are a common byproduct of combustion. High heat fires produce the thinnest and most far-spread effects. Despite being light residues, permanent fire damage in Staunton can still result without the right tools. We have chemical sponges to trap soils on the surface and protect the impacted building materials. Dry vacuuming before the sponge cleaning can also improve this process's effectiveness.

Wet Smoke Deposits

When the environment is moist, or water has become a factor in slowing the progression and heat of a fire, wet smoke damage results. Unlike dry smoke, sticky deposits are likely to smear and stain. Implementing necessary cleaning agents like detergents and chemicals to trap and lift soils to protect these impacted substrates from permanent damage is vital.

Grease Fires in the Kitchen

Protein residues are a challenging obstacle for restoration as well. Grease fire residues adhere to all available surfaces around the range where the fire originated, so wall surfaces, backsplash materials, cabinets, countertops, and flooring can all be impacted. Solvents dissolve grease deposits, working to restore and preserve the underlying material where replacement could be costly - like custom cabinets.

While all fires can be damaging and destructive to area homes, the methods of cleaning up after extinguishment change by the smoke type. Understanding the damage impacting your property helps get the right restoration approaches started as soon as possible. Give our SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties fire restorers a call today at (540) 433-6100.

SERVPRO Saves Staunton Homes from Lasting Effects of Fire Damage

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

Soot from fire damage is no easy task to handle. SERVPRO technicians know all the tricks of the trade along with having experience.

Cleaning Staunton Homes After Fire Damage 

The layer of smoke and soot left after fire damage to your Staunton home can cause lasting damage if not cleaned promptly. SERVPRO techs use several cleaning agents and techniques to remove the residue as quickly as possible to limit the potential damage. 

SERVPRO techs use cleaning strategies that break the bonds between the soils and the surface they adhere to during the cleanup of fire damage to your Staunton home. The cleaning methods used depend on several factors, including the soil's nature and the surface involved. 

Breaking Bonds Between Soils and Surfaces During Fire Restoration

The four key cleaning actions that SERVPRO techs use to loosen soils from the various surface include-

• Mechanical agitation is the initial step to dislodge soil, cleaning smoke and soot residue. Techs use sponges and scrubbers to remove loosely bound residue before using other cleaning methods. 
• Lubrication helps the soil particles "slide" into the cleaning solution. SERVPRO techs use detergent solutions to lubricate the soils and emulsify oily residues into the cleaning solution. 
• Chemical action can alter the chemistry of the soils breaking their bonds with surfaces. Enzymes, oxidizing and reducing bleaches remove the residue after fire damage by chemical action. 
• Suspension and dispersion refer to extracting the surface residue into the cleaning product. Suspension of residue occurs when soil dissolves or emulsifies in a cleaning product. 

Combining these cleaning actions ensures that the residue left behind after fire damage is removed before it can create any permanent damage. SERVPRO works hard to ensure that your home is restored "Like it never even happened." 

Call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100 to know how we can help.     

Flood Damage in Your Harrisonburg Home? Call SERVPRO

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

Storm and flood damage restoration services by SERVPRO are top-notch. Call now for fast and immediate service.

Extracting Water After Flood Damage to Your Harrisonburg Home 

Extraction of the accumulated water after flood damage to your Harrisonburg home must happen fast to prevent any permanent damage to your property. The longer the floodwater stays in contact with the structural components, the more damage it can cause.  

SERVPRO techs use several pieces of equipment to extract water after flood damage to your Harrisonburg home. The choice of the equipment depends on several factors, including-

• The volume of water present on the property
• The amount of debris and sediment in the water 
• The vertical lift required 
• The availability of electric power 

Depending on the situation, techs use truck-mounted and portable extractors, pumps, or deep extraction tools to remove accumulated water on your property after a storm.  

Why are Trash Pumps so Useful in Flood Restoration?

Trash pumps are essential equipment during flood damage restoration of your Harrisonburg home for several reasons. Although these pumps don’t provide as much suction lift as submersible pumps, they have other advantages. 

As floodwater often contains debris and sediment, it can become difficult to pump it out with regular extractors and pumps. Trash pumps are ideal in such a situation as they can pass solids up to 3 inches without getting clogged. Some trash pumps can also carry fluid laden with sand or mud. 

Another advantage of trash pumps cleaning up flood damage is that they operate on gas or diesel rather than electricity. SERVPRO techs use trash pumps when water needs to be transported horizontally, and a little lift is required. 

Trash pumps come in various capacities, removing from 10,000 to 60,000 gallons of floodwater per hour. 

If you need assistance with flood restoration, call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100. 

SERVPRO Offers Quick Mold Inspections in Harrisonburg

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

Mold remediation is no DIY project. Call SERVPRO for the help your home needs.

Mold Inspection of Your Harrisonburg Home with SERVPRO 

Not all mold damage is visible. Professional mold inspection of your Harrisonburg home can uncover hidden contamination before the situation gets out of hand. So, if you think you might have a mold problem in your home, it is vital to seek help when there is still time. 

SERVPRO techs stick to the IICRC S520 guidelines during the mold inspection of your Harrisonburg home. Our trained restorers use several tools and techniques to identify problem areas where mold spores can germinate and thrive. We work closely with Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) professionals and Indoor Environmental Professionals (IEPs) to offer the safest and most efficient restoration experience if mold testing is required for a specific abatement service.

How do Mold Specialists look for Contamination? 

Mold inspection involves mainly a visual assessment of your Harrisburg home by SERVPRO experts to detect any visible growth or to identify any potential problem areas. Techs look out for two things while inspecting your property for mold damage-

• Excess moisture
• Signs of visible growth hidden in structural cavities of your property

Moisture meters, infrared cameras, and thermo-hygrometers can detect the moisture level in specific areas of your home. As moisture is one of the key factors required for mold growth, identifying such areas can help catch the problem early.  

Structural cavities such as telecommunication chases can be quite costly to repair if dismantled for inspection. Hence, SERVPRO techs use special cameras called Borescopes to look for signs of fungal growth inside the ductwork during a mold inspection. The cameras we use can record still images and videos to better understand the scope and extent of the problem.

Call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100 if you suspect mold contamination in your home.  

How Professional Fire Restoration Helps Harrisonburg Homes

6/26/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration for your Harrisburg home is no DIY project. call the professionals at SERVPRO for all the help you need.

SERVPRO Fire Repair Reassures Harrisonburg Homeowners

In the aftermath of a fire, you may be presented with numerous options to resolve the wide range of arising challenges. You may opt to tear down everything and make replacements. You might also decide to hire separate professionals to handle each problem that develops in your Harrisonburg home. Each fire restoration approach that you choose may present some advantages.

Choosing a professional fire restoration company in Harrisonburg to handle everything simultaneously may be the best option. For the homeowner's benefit, a company like SERVPRO operates several procedures, including controlled demolition, cleaning, and refinishing, running them concurrently whenever possible.

Benefits of professional restoration

• Reducing recovery costs
• Limiting the downtime 
• Saving sentimental items

The most costly way to resolve fire damage is to replace contents and structural materials. Approaches that involve stripping off materials are also expensive. Cleaning is usually the cheapest recovery option. SERVPRO crews use several advanced technologies to maximize cleaning effectiveness, limiting the things you must replace. Methods like Peroxide-Active cleaning, blast cleaning, and ultrasonic cleaning significantly improve the outcome and limit damages when cleaning acoustic ceiling panels, unfinished wood, and kitchenware.

Things Complicating Restoration

Most things done during fire restoration are not extraordinary, so anyone with some technical skills can accomplish them. However, managing all the issues can introduce unexpected complications that limit effectiveness or cause unnecessary delays. Convenience is one of the advantages you enjoy when a SERVPRO crew handles fire damage for you.

The main aspects to manage

• Time
• Debris 
• Cleaning processes

Leaving fire residues or moisture to accumulate on surfaces over an extended period leads to secondary deterioration. Controlling something like moisture is challenging without the right equipment. Our SERVPRO crews readily overcome this by setting up dehumidifiers immediately on arrival at the property to reduce humidity, thus facilitating the drying of materials. When demolishing structural areas such as ceilings, we use giant trash cans to hold debris.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties carefully manages fire restoration to guarantee a positive outcome. Call us at (540) 433-6100. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Reasons Why Water Damage in Staunton Requires Professional Help

6/19/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration for your Staunton home is a job for SERVPRO. Our technicians are ready at a moment's notice.

SERVPRO Has Equipment for Water Restoration in Staunton

Moisture has an interesting relationship with most materials. Most are not entirely moisture-free. However, over-exposure to moisture, especially for extended periods, triggers degradation. That is why roof leaks, burst pipes, or faulty appliances that release water in your Staunton home may force you to call a professional to help deal with the resulting water damage.

The simplest solution to fight water damage at your Staunton home is the fast evacuation of the intruding water. Mopping the wet areas or using a wet vacuum helps remove standing water. Some situations may require advanced responses because of the significant volumes involved or if the water is trapped in cavities. SERVPRO effortlessly responds to such incidents since we have sufficient resources.

Resources needed to counter water intrusion

• Water extractors
• Drying equipment
• Moving equipment

In most cases, you limit deterioration by removing the intruding water. That is why extractors and drying equipment such as dehumidifiers are indispensable when fighting water intrusion. However, sometimes, 'flight' is a better alternative whereby you have to evacuate some contents to save them from significant exposure as you find solutions to dry the property. Our SERVPRO teams have hand trucks and lifting straps that ease the movement of bulky and heavy furniture and appliances from wet areas.

The Art of Drying Wet Materials

Drying wet materials require scientific principles to guarantee the desired outcome. Moisture might enter materials easily but removing it requires manipulating several factors like pressure and temperature. For example, you need a sufficient vacuum lift to extract water from a porous material such as a carpet. You also need adequate temperature for the remaining wetness in the material to evaporate. As you manipulate these aspects, it is possible to cause damage if you do not understand how moisture interacts with the affected material.

Critical aspects to remember

• Over drying materials cause damages like cracking
• Materials like wood contain some moisture when dry
• Extremely fast drying can cause damages such as warping

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties has a greater understanding of the water damage circumstances you face. Call us at (540) 433-6100 for solutions that address the damage "Like it never even happened."

Likely Mold Inspection Steps for Your Harrisonburg Home

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Mold inspection for your Harrisonburg home is a job for SERVPRO. We are ready 24/7 365 days a year.

Common Mold Evaluation Steps SERVPRO Uses in Harrisonburg

It is usually evident whether your Harrisonburg home has mold since the contamination generally emits a musty smell and causes surface blemishes as spores form colonies or the materials deteriorate. Despite this, doing mold inspection before starting remediation leads to a positive outcome.

Performing a thorough mold inspection at your Harrisonburg is as essential as any other remediation step. It is difficult to determine the resources you require for the restoration or costs without the right information. Even for a seasoned mold restorer such as SERVPRO, inspecting moldy areas is inevitable.

Details inspection helps reveal

• Contamination spread patterns
• Level of deterioration
• Underlying mold driving factors 

Knowing there is mold in your house is only the first step. It would help if you had an idea of how far it spreads across the house and the level of development the colonies have reached. Such information informs the next steps. Our SERVPRO crew chiefs use the information to determine which areas to tear down and how to set up containment.

Mold Development Trends

Regardless of where the mold contamination is concentrated, the problem starts at the material's surface when spores absorb moisture and sprout. Later, surface colonization advances when hyphae dig into the surface for nutrients. Therefore, the longer mold develops on a surface, the greater the level of deterioration. A step as simple as probing the surface with a sharp tool helps reveal the level of decay since most materials lose structural integrity and crumble when heavily colonized.

Inspection steps

• Drilling exploratory holes
• Checking moisture levels in materials
• Lifting surface covers

During an inspection, two aspects are critical - finding the information you seek without causing significant structural damage. Our SERVPRO technicians use mild approaches such as drilling small holes in walls or ceilings and then placing an inspection camera through the opening to establish the level of infestation. We use thermal cameras when checking for hidden moisture since they do not require physical contact to pinpoint wetness.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties understands the crucial role thorough mold inspection plays in restoring the property to its preloss state. You can reach us at (540) 433-6100. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

The Importance of Expert Fire Damage Cleanup in Harrisonburg Homes

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Quick action after a fire can help prevent the damage from escalating. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for certified technicians and remediation services.

SERVPRO Has the Right Equipment for Safe Fire Restoration in Harrisonburg

No matter how small, a fire incident is always scary and can leave you feeling vulnerable. Porous surfaces such as ceilings, walls, and insulation absorb smoke residues. Soot also covers vast surfaces at your Harrisonburg property, staining textured materials. But with the right equipment, restoring normalcy is easy.

Fire damage in a Harrisonburg home can be invisible in some areas, and an average homeowner might easily miss it. Cleaning up after a fire, therefore, takes professional skill. SERVPRO crews remove visible soot and smoke particles from hidden places.

Tasks you should not attempt after a fire   

• Do not operate unchecked electrical appliances
• Do not move or sit on upholstered furniture
• Never consume food products exposed to the extreme heat of a fire
• Do not water your indoor plants until you remove soot   

How taking precautions eases fire restoration

You should not attempt some tasks yourself because of risks such as smoldering ash and toxic gases. SERVPRO has proper safety equipment to perform the work without the risks. To combat pervasive smoke odor, our crews use the thermal fogging technique. This method ensures deep penetration of deodorizing agents, neutralizing smoky odors. It is useful for concealed areas such as attics and works well for odor-absorbing insulation.

Safety steps while thermal fogging

• Ensure all individuals and pets have vacated the area
• Disable smoke detectors
• Extinguish pilot lights on appliances

To allow maximum fog penetration to crevices, SERVPRO IICRC-certified technicians ensure the treated area is undisturbed by limiting access to the site for some time. We also thoroughly ventilate to remove fumes before reoccupying. Setting up high-velocity air movers and exhaust fans helps turn over the air in the area.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties knows how to apply fire damage restoration techniques for the best outcome. Call us at (540) 433-6100. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Why Drying Is Crucial in Flood Damage Repair in Staunton Homes

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the room that flooding overtakes, team SERVPRO can help. Contact us for water removal and flood damage remediation services. Call 24/7.

Flood Damage Restoration in Staunton Properties

Once there has been flooding in your home, many issues can develop. Water has damaging properties; for example, when wood framing, drywall, and subfloors become saturated with water, they deteriorate. Even if you successfully remove all standing water, most materials remain wet. You still have to dry out the wet areas to restore your Staunton home to its preloss conditions.

The biggest problem with repairing flood damage in your Staunton homes by yourself is the risk of using low-grade equipment that might not completely dry out wet areas. Any residual moisture can create a perfect environment for mold and mildew if not quickly dealt with.

Other reasons you need professional help

• Sufficient workforce for faster turnaround
• Better restoration techniques
• Third-party recommendations for additional services

Drying techniques

Moisture migrates widely once a property floods. Therefore, the drying procedures must also have the capacity to reach vast or concealed areas. A faster turnaround is an added advantage since it minimizes the chances of rot and other severe deterioration. Drying techniques vary based on the medium used to facilitate the process. Common approaches include manipulating airflow, using containment barriers, and manipulating temperature using equipment or other resources.

Moisture removal resources

• Drying chambers
• Air movers
• Dehumidifiers

Creating a chamber isolates the areas being dried from the rest of the structure, creating several advantages. The most important aspect is the superior ability to regulate all the factors that support drying, including heat, airflow, and humidity. Our SERVPRO teams use plastic sheets to create a chamber that can cover only a section such as a floor surface or an entire room. We then circulate warm, dry air inside the chamber and dehumidify the air exhausted from within.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties helps expedite the process of drying out and recovering from flood damage "Like it never even happened." Call us at (540) 433-6100.

Why You Need Proper Water Damage Restoration in Harrisonburg

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

When your toilet or bidet overflows, you need help fast! Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for effective water removal and water damage restoration services.

Harrisonburg Residents Affected by Water Damage Call SERVPRO

Water damage can occur slowly from a leak that goes unnoticed for a while or rapidly from a burst pipe or overflowing toilet. You can prevent this kind of damage with timely intervention from a reliable restoration company that can address various water damage issues. Professionals ensure that water extraction and repair services are performed promptly after water issues affect your Harrisonburg property.

Extraction is an important aspect during water damage restoration in a Harrisonburg home. Although some things are more susceptible to instant destruction after a water intrusion, a timely repair can prevent extensive damage. SERVPRO professionals have modern equipment to restore your home to preloss conditions effectively.

Important steps in the event of water intrusion

• Identifying the source of moisture
• Preventing further moisture intrusion
• Documenting damage
• Determining whether contents and structure are dry

Repair measures taken by experts 

Following water infiltration, the SERVPRO crews help identify the source of moisture and take measures to prevent further intrusion. We conduct an assessment and document all damaged areas, including building materials and furnishings. We can determine the best way to repair the damage by thoroughly assessing the situation. Also, we are keen to identify moisture under cabinets and other furnishings.

Drying a structure and its contents involves dehumidifiers and air movers to remove moisture from your home walls, floors, and hidden spaces. Air movers circulate large volumes of air, ensuring evaporation is much faster. Dehumidifiers remove moist, humid air from the structure to the unit and discharge dry, warm air from the unit back to the affected areas. Dry air acts as a sponge absorbing moisture from wet materials. Therefore, moisture-deficient air exhausted from the dehumidifier is blown back into the room.

Factors affecting the usage of a dehumidifier

• The extent of damage
• Space
• Level of humidity

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is just one call away and responds quickly and effectively to restore any water damage at your home. Call us at (540) 433-6100. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How to Find Fast-Acting Harrisonburg Home Mold Damage Response

4/24/2022 (Permalink)

Mold damage cleanup is no DIY project. SERVPRO will use the latest technology and equipment for every mold job. Call now!

SERVPRO 24-Hour Mold Mitigation for Harrisonburg Residents

Mold damage cleanup is a tricky prospect for Harrisonburg homeowners. Surface-level damage that may seem small on the outside can be a challenge to safely clean and repair without accidentally spreading spores to other rooms through doorways and ventilation ducts. Performing DIY repairs can also put property owners at risk of potential mold-related health effects.

SERVPRO mold damage restoration keeps Harrisonburg residents safe by performing remediation to Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards. These codes ensure that homeowners and their belongings are consistently returned to a safe condition free of microbes. 

SERVPRO availability can reduce overall damage caused by mold

SERVPRO's success as a mold remediation crew is its 24-hour availability, including weekends and holidays. Professionals can respond to late-night calls within hours of a property owner's initial contact to inspect the affected property and formulate an effective restoration plan following restoration industry best practices.

Other benefits of this availability include:

• Mitigating further mold growth, which can start in as little as 24 hours after moisture exposure
• SERVPRO inspection tools like thermal imaging cameras can identify additional areas in wall and ceiling cavities where mold may also be present
• Fast-acting HVAC cleaning and containment can stop mold from traveling through ductwork and settling in other areas of the home

Constant availability of highly-trained technicians can also reduce repair and replacement costs for structures and contents while keeping home occupants and property owners safe from potential mold-related health effects. A fast response is also helpful for applicable insurance claim filings.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties can perform remediation that looks and feels "Like it never even happened" when property owners contact the team at (540) 433-6100.

Soot Removal with Staunton Fire Restoration Services

4/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO commercial fire restoration for your business is the way to go. We will be on-site within 4 hours of the initial call.

Commercial Fire Cleanup Revitalizes Staunton Businesses

Business owners can feel overwhelmed after a fire, even in industries where small fires frequently happen, like restaurants. However, fast-responding restoration is a must for keeping many Staunton businesses' doors open after disaster strikes. Fire suppression has its issues, including potential water damage and mold growth, that property owners need removed from their facilities.

SERVPRO fire restoration can restore Staunton businesses to a safe, sanitary, and operational condition that is comfortable for employees and customers alike. Commercial mitigation focuses on reducing downtime and replacement needs for business assets while adhering to local regulations and insurance policies.

Removing soot from common surfaces found in commercial facilities

Many commercial facilities feature a diverse array of structural materials requiring different care types during restoration. In a restaurant, for example:

• If the fire occurred in the kitchen, ceramic tile floors are often restorable because their glazes are naturally resistant to smoke damage. Unglazed tiles and unsealed grout, however, can absorb soot. SERVPRO has specialized cleaners for grout, masonry, and tiles with acids that cut through soot while preserving these materials. Industrial cleaners are often used to restore items like grease traps and range hoods
• A fire in the dining area of a restaurant can leave carpeting and wall coverings needing delicate restoration. Wallpapers can often be restored, even those made of paper, with the help of tools like dry cleaning sponges. Gentle wall rinses are recommended for nonporous wall coverings like vinyl
• Meanwhile, restrooms affected by fire may require alkaline cleaners on appliances like sinks and toilets for heavier cleanup needs. Light, dry soils on these items may only need gentle dry cleaning with Masslinn cloth or dry cleaning sponges

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is a phone call away from rendering "Like it never even happened. services at (540) 433-6100.

Harrisonburg Flood Damage Cleanup Available 24 Hours Daily

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO flood damage cleanup services for your property are top-notch. We are here to help 24/7 365 days a year.

Flood Remediation from Harrisonburg SERVPRO Mitigates Odors and Debris

Water is not the only cause of unpleasant odors after flood damage. Harrisonburg homeowners can often find sewage, pests, chemical runoff, and other unpleasant discoveries on their property that can also affect the safety of potential DIY solutions. Professional remediation, however, can keep homeowners safe while still eliminating odors and debris.

Harrisonburg SERVPRO flood damage cleanup professionals provide around-the-clock mitigation services that return homes to pre-flood conditions. Whether the disaster is large or small, SERVPRO tools and EPA-registered biocides can eliminate odor-causing particles. 

SERVPRO odor control and debris removal for flooding

To address concerns created by flood odors and debris like soot and sewage, SERVPRO professionals can:

• Use commercial-grade personal protective equipment (PPE) to eliminate waste and residue brought in by flood damage safely. These tools include gloves, N95 filter respirators, and hooded coveralls
• Manually clean and dispose of solid waste without spreading contaminants throughout the property. SERVPRO mitigates this risk with designated clean rooms for decontamination of equipment and PPE
• Spray OSHA-approved biocides to mitigate bacteria and microbes on contact, which can lessen odors
• Deploy ultra-low volume (ULV) foggers to eliminate odor-causing bacteria on surfaces and in the air with lingering "wet" fog
• Position ventilation box fans to circulate clean air through the property at least 40 times before and after ULV fogging to minimize the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These fans can circulate air at a rate of 3,200 cubic feet per minute

While drying moisture and extracting excess water after a flood is crucial to mitigation, debris removal and odor control from certified professionals go the extra lengths necessary to restore a home to a safe and sanitary state.

Homeowners can call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster, including on weekends and holidays.

Why is Professional Flood Damage Restoration Best in Staunton?

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage? SERVPRO is prepared with restoration equipment and experienced technicians.

Staunton Residents Get Quality Flood Damage Restoration Results from SERVPRO!

Due to all of the contaminants in floodwater, you need to proceed with caution. Why call in the help of professionals at SERVPRO? Because we know how to navigate all water damage situations, including storm flooding and interior flooding for commercial and residential properties.

Safe Work Practices for Handling Flood Damage in Staunton

Flooding brings a range of safety hazards. In addition to water damage, floodwater in Staunton can be dangerous even after it begins receding. Not only is there possible pollution from contaminants like chemicals and sewage, but standing water could also include sharp objects, biohazards, and other debris. You must never wade through floodwaters and always remain aware that you can breathe in various toxins. 

SERVPRO’s technicians go through regular training to help us remain aware of possible hazards and handle flooding to homes and businesses. We follow safety protocols to keep our team safe and our clients. Even a tiny scratch can be a concern when it comes to the potential viruses, bacteria, and biohazards in floodwater. Each situation gets evaluated to determine all risk factors, and we ask clients not to go into flooded areas for protection. 

Our team uses the following as part of our personal protective equipment (PPE):

• Full bodysuits
• Rubber boots
• Respirators
• Chemical resistant gloves
• Goggles

Containment is Key

For any interior flooding, water must get contained as best as possible so that unaffected areas of your home do not get contaminated. We put containment barriers in place and remain proactive to limit tracking from one zone to the next. Our team gets started right away on water mitigation strategies to pull up as much standing water as possible. This, blended with our dehumidification and drying efforts, help us to achieve our goals fast.

Request the help you need online or give us a call at SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100. Why deal with DIY when you can get flood damage restoration done right the first time? We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

What Can Harrisonburg Area Water Restoration Companies Do?

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Leaking ceilings can have many causes from storms to broken pipes. Let SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties help you.

Call SERVPRO, One of the Best Water Restoration Companies in Harrisonburg!

Rather than grabbing a mop and bucket for water emergencies in your home, you should know that professional restoration is often best. Even though there are many projects you can DIY, water damage should not be one of them. To ensure your Harrisonburg home gets back to normal fast, you need experts to help. SERVPRO follows detailed guidelines for water removal services, drying, and restoration to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Even though videos online claim to tell you how water restoration companies in Harrisonburg handle water cleanup from burst pipes or ceiling leaks, they often fail to tell you about hidden moisture, mold growth, and the dangers of secondary damage. These are just some of the reasons it is better to leave water cleanup to the pros:

• Hidden Moisture/Damage – Most water damage in the home will not be evident to the untrained eye. Moisture can build under carpeting, behind walls, and other areas. SERVPRO uses moisture detection tools to find hidden moisture behind walls and other hard-to-reach spaces.
• Cost – While the cost of water mitigation/restoration may seem high initially, it will save you money in the long run. It is best to have it done right the first time rather than paying someone to come in and fix mistakes.
• Health and Possible Hazards – When you have a sewage backup, floodwater coming in from the outside, or the possibility of electric shock, you need someone trained to handle it for you. SERVPRO arrives wearing the appropriate PPE and uses all the best equipment and products to keep hazards and contaminants from posing a problem. 

When looking at water restoration companies, know that SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is available 24/7. Request help online, or you can give us a call when you need us at (540) 433-6100!

Following Fire Damage Restoration Protocols in Harrisonburg

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO to effectively tackle the fire damage in your property. Call now!

SERVPRO Provides Quality Fire Damage Restoration for Harrisonburg Residents

With the average in the United States being a home catching fire every 90 seconds, it is better to get prepared for anything to happen. As a homeowner in Harrisonburg, you can rest assured that you have fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) ready to go at a moment’s notice should an emergency unfold. SERVPRO is known nationwide for stellar results, caring staff, and unbeatable smoke remediation and fire damage reconstruction. All homeowners have to do is pick up the phone to give us a call, and we can arrive within hours to begin the assessment!

With our team, fire damage restoration in Harrisonburg means no area gets left unaddressed in your home. The process takes time, but we work fast to help you get back to your routine more quickly than DIY, leaving your home “Like it never even happened.”

These are a few of the measures we take to ensure your property gets the attention it deserves:

Assessment and Protection

Each project begins with a thorough assessment to identify any hazards and the areas for cleaning. Smoke damage can lead to issues, so we determine the types of residues to formulate the best plan of action. This includes reviewing these areas:

• Unsalvageable contents/materials
• Security complications
• Exposure to the elements
• Electrical hazards
• Structural integrity
• Soot damage/infiltration
• Water Saturation

Cleaning and Deodorizing

We remove any standing water and moisture left from extinguishing the fire with the help of extractors and dehumidifiers. Our technicians also begin cleaning surfaces and removing charred debris while our odor control technicians (OCT) handle pungent smoke smells.

Reconstruction

SERVPRO always works to repair and restore rather than replace, but many fire incidents call for controlled demolition on some level. We may mend holes, replace drywall, repaint, and finish all areas to bring everything back to pre-fire condition.

When you need fire damage restoration, there is nothing better than the results you will get from SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties. We are available for our 24/7 emergency service by dialing (540) 433-6100.

What Mold Remediation Solutions Should Be Used in Staunton Homes?

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

Professional mold remediation by qualified SERVPRO technicians safely restores a Staunton home to a safe and clean condition

Mold damage can be a rapidly spreading threat for Staunton homes without focused remediation efforts. 

The threat of mold is more common to area homes and businesses than property owners might believe. Our focus in these situations is rapid remediation and containment of the damaged areas to protect as much of your home as possible.

Mold Specialists and Inspections

Correcting and remediating mold damage in Staunton homes starts with a roster of professionals experienced with diagnosing residential mold concerns and evaluating the property's needs moving forward. Our mold inspection process creates a custom restoration plan for your damaged property with the necessary remediation tactics and products.

Surface Cleaning Solutions

The first potential option for cleaning and removing active mold colonies is surface treatment with antimicrobial products. These options are beneficial in several ways when much of the damage remains superficial. Sporicidal products eliminate mold organisms on contact and can also serve as an inhibiting agent to further colonization.

Abrasive Mold Removal

When surface cleaning strategies are ineffective or sufficient for removing the present mold colonization, our professionals look to more aggressive measures. Organisms can seat and spread beyond the surface of hosting elements, making abrasive cleaning tactics effective in removing the entire hyphae without damaging the material substrate. Options include:

• Sanding
• Sponge pressure cleaning
• Sodium bicarbonate blastin

Are Mold Damage Repairs Needed?

One of the ways our professionals can help after getting remediation underway for the property is by determining where repairs and reconstruction might be necessary. When controlled demolition is required to resolve significant mold destruction to hosting materials, these elements must be replaced and restored. Our general contractor license can help in this regard. 

However mold impacts your home or business, having a trusted and experienced team of AMRT-certified technicians can help when it matters most. Our SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties professionals are ready to respond whenever you suspect mold growth in your house. Call today at (540) 433-6100.

Does a Small Harrisonburg Shop Fire Require Cleanup

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO restores fire-damaged shops in Harrisonburg and removes water from the extinguishing efforts, "Like it never even happened."

Fire damage restoration is still needed to help Harrisonburg structures

Small fires can result from electrical overloads or mishaps with candles, cigarettes, and other items. Even with the fast extinguishment of these disasters, the building can show the signs of damage and require professional restoration and cleaning for several pressing concerns.

Removing Damaged Materials

First, fire damage in Harrisonburg shops involves removing ruined contents and building materials. Elements like clothing, fabrics, furniture and other wares can become unsalvageable between the fire, the suppression solutions, or smoke odor damage. We inspect affected contents and structure for where discarding may be necessary.

Cleaning Up After Fire Suppression

Suppressing the fire is an urgent need amid the disaster, but this process is not without potential damages as well. Fire extinguishers, for example, can leave a thick residue on surfaces that require specific wet cleaning products to resolve.

Replacing the Structure

Using a contractor license, we help where repairs and reconstruction might be necessary. Many sensitive materials can become rapidly overwhelmed and permanently damaged by soot and blistering, so we provide controlled demolition to discard these elements and replace them. Some of these might include:

• Carpets
• Baseboard
• Drywall
• Framing
• Ceiling tiles

Malodor Removal and Management

Yet another potential threat to your business after a small fire is the lingering smell. Burning fuels like wood can create smoke solids and odor compounds that overwhelm the ignition point. Cleaning up can reduce the severity of these smells, but hydroxyl generators and ozone machines are often necessary to finish the job.

After a fire in local stores and shops, there are multiple focus areas for restoration. The swift actions of our SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties team can help mitigate loss, protect investments, and get your business back up and running again. Give our professionals a call today at (540) 433-6100. 

What Can Water Damage Do to Harrisonburg Office Buildings?

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in a hi-rise Harrisonburg commercial building needs SERVPRO' rapid response, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster

Water damage is fast-moving and destructive within Harrisonburg commercial properties

Water damage can slow or stop the production of your office building until restoration and recovery get underway. Because we have experienced professionals capable of helping with mitigation 24/7, we can get a team mobilized after the first notice of loss to protect the structure from irreparable harm from many damaging effects.

Spreading Surface Water

Among the first ways that water damage and Harrisonburg offices can be destructive is through the fast motion of standing water in the building. Without containment, water continues to spread along flooring and surface materials. We utilize wet vacuums and pumps to extract pooling water from low-pile carpets and wood floors.

Absorption into Sensitive Materials

Carpets, drywall, and other porous materials can quickly absorb moisture. The longer this exposure lasts without drying, the more likely these surfaces experience irreparable damage. We use hygrometers, thermal imagery, and other sensitive water tracking instruments to identify damp pockets that require resolution.

Impact on Contents and Wares

Contents like the office furniture, desks, electronics, and file cabinets are all positioned to be directly impacted by water, water vapor (excess humidity) and subsequent mold damage. Protecting these contents starts with immediate actions like relocation to safer places in the building. 

How Does SERVPRO Help?

Regardless of the impact of water damage on your building materials and contents in the office building, fast mitigation and restoration are critical. SERVPRO WRT-Certified technicians work around the clock to get your doors back open when water damage emergencies overwhelm the workplace. We can help with services like:

• Extraction
• Content Relocation
• Surface Cleaning
• Repairs
• Structure Drying

Because water damage can occur from multiple sources, having experienced and dedicated professionals arriving quickly to help is critical to protecting your business and its contents. You can count on the fast response of our SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties team to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call today at (540) 433-6100.

Fire Safety Tips for Your Pets

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

People consider pets as family but don’t always think about fire safety for them. Below are a few safety tips to consider:

• Pay attention to where your pets like to hide or sleep. This will help in case of a fire or other emergency in locating your pet.
• Keep both the phone number and address of your veterinarian and animal hospital in case of injury to your pet.
• Check your home for loose wires where a pet could accidently pull over a lamp or other electrical appliance.
• Never leave a burning candle or fireplace unattended around your pets.
• Have an emergency plan in place, include crating your pet and/or having a lease handy.
• Prepare a pet emergency kit to include food, water, blanket, medical record, along with any medications they may take.
• Prepare a list of pet friendly hotels or boarding kennels where you can take your pet if needed.

Preparing for Winter Driving

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

People think about preparing their homes for winter weather but may forget about getting their vehicle ready for winter driving.

You should prepare your car for winter weather:

• Have a mechanic check your fluid levels, battery, wipers, heater, and defroster.
• Make sure there is enough tread on your tires and if check to see if chains or studs are needed.
• Keep your gas tank full in case of emergencies, this will also help keep gas lines from freezing.
• Keep an emergency supply kit in your vehicle, include jumper cables, ice scraper, blanket, cell phone charger, cat litter (to aid in traction if you get stuck), flashlight, flares, and a first aid kit.
• Keep an emergency bag supplied with water, snacks, and extra batteries to grab when leaving when weather is bad in case of getting stuck in snow or ice.

Some Signs of Hidden Water Damage

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

When a sink, toilet or tub has overflowed, or when rainwater has invaded your home a water damage is obvious. Did you know that water damage could also be hidden? Hidden leaks can cause structure damage as well as cause microbial growth.

Signs of hidden water damage may include:

• Cracking, flaking and bubbling drywall or paint or dark or wet spots on ceiling or walls
• Puddle or pool of water that comes back after cleaning it up
• Unexplained water bill or electric bill that has suddenly gone up
• A dripping sound or sounds of running water
• A smell of dampness, mustiness, or mold

Hidden water damage can happen to both a new and an older home at any time. Any sort of water damage whether hidden or not needs to be taken care of as soon as possible.

Water Heater -Water Damage

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

Water Heaters can cause a water damage in several different ways from a slow leak to a burst pipe. A slow leak can develop and go unnoticed for days before the damage is found. If the water heater is located on any floor besides the bottom floor or basement of your home, the damage can be extensive. When a slow leak happens, the water can seep through the walls, flooring and even the ceiling of the rooms below. Sometimes the leak is found when the ceiling below shows water stains or collapses.

It is a good idea to inspect your water heater on a regular basis in addition to flushing it out twice a year.

If/when you notice that a puddle of water under your water heater, the water doesn’t get as hot as it used to, it is making popping or cracking sounds, and if you see any rust in the water when using the hot water, you should contact a plumber for assistance.

If you experience a water damage, contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties for assistance. We can be reached at 540-433-6100 anytime of the day or night!

Checklist to Aid in Preventing Water Damage

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

• Check the hoses to your appliances: washing machine and dishwasher, be sure to include any faucets
• Check the water lines: refrigerator ice maker and water heater
• Check the caulking around your tub, shower, and windows
• Check your downspouts and gutters
• Check to make sure that the water drains away from your home or building
• Check your sump pump (if one is installed)

Upon inspection if you found any damage to your hoses or water lines, have them replaced. If the caulking is damage, you will need to reseal the areas. Make sure that your downspouts and gutters are clear of any debris and/or damage to would allow water to get into your home or building. Make sure that your sump pump is working correctly by pouring water into the pump pit allowing the float to rise and the pump to turn on. Also be sure that after the water is removed, that the pump turns off.

Causes of Dishwasher Leaks

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Dishwashers usually leak at the door or underneath the washer.

If your dishwasher drainage system is clogged or the float valve fails, water will escape through the door. A leaking door seal can also cause water to escape as well as failure to level the dishwasher properly during installation. Water leaks can also come from damaged hoses and loose hose clamps. The tub itself could develop a hole due to corrosion issues from hard water and/or detergents used.

Be sure and inspect your dishwasher regularly for worn out parts and be sure to clean the filters at least once a month.

If you experience a water damage in your home, whether due to a dishwasher leak or other damage, contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100. We are here to help!

Different Forms of “Snow”

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Snow can be seen as flurries or snow showers. Flurries are light falling snow for a fleeting period and there is unusually no accumulation. Snow showers have snow falling for brief periods of time and with varying intensity of snowfall, some accumulation is possible.

Sleet starts out as snow then partially melts when going through warm air as the flakes fall towards the ground. Before hitting the ground, they then go through a layer of freezing air and eventually land as sleet. Sleet is nothing more than frozen rain drops!

Freezing rain also starts out as snow. The snowflakes completely melt as they fall through warm air. Then the rain refreezes upon impact with anything below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a glaze of ice on trees, power lines, etc.

Ice Storms and Freezing Rain

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Avoid driving if freezing rain has been forecasted. Roads can be extremely slippery with just a small amount of accumulation of ice. Wait to drive until after the highway maintenance crews have had time to treat the roads with sand or salt and it has started to melt. Better yet, wait until the temperature gets above freezing so as not to have the roadway refreeze before you arrive at your destination.

Check tree branches and power lines for ice buildup. The weight of the ice could cause the branches and power lines to break causing damage to yourself, car, or residence. Never touch power lines as they could cause you to be electrocuted.

It is better to stay put and stay inside, if possible, until after the ice has melted from the roadways, trees, and power lines when an ice storm occurs.   

Ice storms and freezing can also cause damage to your home. Falling trees and branches as well as an ice dam backup in your gutters can cause not only water damage but structural damage. If you experience any damage during a storm, contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-434-4100. We are here to help!

Sewage Damage in Your Commercial Building

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

When a toilet containing sewage or a sewage drain backs up in your commercial building, it should be considered an emergency. The damage could include viruses and/or bacteria that could cause illness.  Since sewage is a hazardous material, it should be handled by professionals who will clean up the sewage and remove it in a safe manner. Damaged items will need to be removed, unsalvageable items will need to be discarded, and salvageable items will need to be disinfected, along with drying out the structure. By having a professional handle the sewage damage, you can limit the damage that sewage causes.

Contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties to handle any sewage damage that occurs in your commercial building. No job is too big or too small. We can be reached at 540-433-6100 anytime of the day or night.

Fire Safety Tips for People with Functional Needs

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

When life happens and we need to use a walker, wheelchair, or other mobility device (crutches, scooter, etc.), to get around, we may tend to not think about fire safety.

In such cases, we should consider the following:

• Check to be sure that paths are clear, and you can get through doorways
• Widen doorways and have ramps installed, if needed
• Have a fire safety plan, practice it, and let others (family, neighbors, building manager) know what the plan is.
• Let your local fire department know ahead of time any special needs you have so that they can keep it on file in case of an emergency, contact them on their non-emergency line to provide them with the information.
• Always keep a phone handy and call 911 when an emergency occurs.

Commercial Residential Properties -Water Damage

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

Water damages in commercial residential properties have increased due to the increasing use of water in our daily lives. Water is used with dishwashers, water and ice dispensing refrigerators, water heaters, toilets, and washing machines as well as showers and bathtubs. Any of these could cause a water damage to occur. Other water damages can be caused by the building’s supply system (pipes) and storms.

Residential buildings that sustain a water loss and not properly dried become less attractive to tenants for leasing and/or could result in lower rental income. Carpets may need to be lifted for drying or removed, along with other affected materials depending on the type of water loss.

If you would happen to have a water damage in your commercial residential building, call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100.

Commercial Roof Maintenance Can Prevent Water Damage

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

The condition of a roof on a commercial building can easily be overlooked until a water damage occurs. Regular visual inspections of the roof and flashing should be performed. Inspections should be performed at least twice a year, once in the spring and then again in the fall. Always perform a roof inspection after any type of storm or roof construction. In addition to checking the roof itself, an important part of the inspection of the roof system is to check to make sure that the insulation and sheathing (underside of the roof) is dry.  Immediate repairs of any defects should be corrected before any moisture enters the roof system or building interior.

Contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties (540-433-6100) if your commercial building experiences a water damage.

Safety Reminders for Commercial Property (Part 3)

10/17/2021 (Permalink)

Differences in Fire Sprinkler/Standpipe Systems:

Fire sprinklers work by high heat triggering the system. When a fire starts, the hot air rises and spreads along the ceiling and causes the sprinkler system to activate.

Standpipe systems are a series of pipes which connect to a water supply to hose connections. They are designed to allow manual application of water to a fire by hooking fire hoses to the connections.

No matter which type of fire suppression system is used, both the fire sprinkler system and standpipe systems should be tested and inspected: monthly check to ensure all control valves are in proper positions, quarterly test of the system’s main drain and an annual inspection by a licensed inspector to ensure that they are maintained and in proper working order.

If you experience a problem with your fire suppression system causing a water damage in commercial business, contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties for assistance. 

IICRC Certified

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties 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. 

We specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties believes in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification.

Should you need our services for a fire, smoke or water damage, you can rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. We can be reached at 540-433-6100 anytime of the day or night, 365 days a year.

Time to Think About Fire Safety

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

It’s that time of year again to be thinking about the winter months. Whether heating with electric, gas, or wood, it is good to be prepared before needing to heat your home due to cooler temperatures.

If using portable electric heaters, be sure and keep them at least three feet away from anything that is combustible. Make sure that the heater has a thermostat control that will switch off automatically if the heater should happen to fall over.

If using fireplaces or woodstoves, be sure to inspect and clean both the stove pipes and chimney before using and then check monthly for damage or obstructions. Use a fireplace screen to cover the opening of the fireplace to prevent flying sparks and rolling logs from catching combustibles on fire.  Be sure your gas, electric or wood fire is completely out in your fireplace before going to bed or leaving the house.

If you would happen to have a fire in your home, call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100. We are here to help!

Preparing for a Power Outage Before a Storm Hits

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Power outages can be a result of severe storms and it helps to be prepared. A power outage can be from several hours to several days or longer.

Preparations include:

• Signing up for local alerts and monitoring weather reports when severe weather is expected.
• Make a list of items that rely on electricity, plan to have batteries on hand as well as cell phones and other items charged.
• Have flashlights or led battery powered candles on hand for light sources.
• Have gas tanks full and additional gas on hand for portable generators and to use for grills to cook on.
• Stock up on non-perishable food and water.
• If taking any type of refrigerated medicines, check with your medical provider to get specific guidance on life saving medicine and ask how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures before causing any issues. Keep a thermometer in your refrigerator and freezer so that you know what the temperature is when the power comes back on.

For storm damage to your home, give SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties a call at 540-433-6100.

Fire Safety Tips to Teach Children

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Children should be taught the following if a fire occurs:

• If a smoke alarm or carbon monoxide alarm sounds, it means that there could be a dangerous situation involving fire, smoke, or a poisonous gas.
• If fire, smoke or carbon monoxide is present, they should crawl either on their hands and knees or on their belly instead of standing.
• Doors should be checked before opening them by feeling to see if they are hot. If they feel hot, they should try another way out.
• To follow an escape route that you have created and to not go back inside for any reason.
• To meet at a specific place outside that has been determined to be safe.

After teaching your children the above safety tips, practice with them. Then be sure to remember to go over the escape plan and tips on a weekly or monthly schedule depending on their age.

Defensive Measures for Microbial Growth

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Mold spores are everywhere. Most types of microbial growth can grow quickly if they have a water source, organic food source and warm temperatures.

Some tips to aid in preventing or limiting microbial growth are:

• Keep moisture from building foundations by providing proper drainage.
• Remove any standing water under air handling units or cooling systems.
• Gutters and drains should be kept clean of any debris.   
• Inspect the roof and windows for any areas such as missing shingles or cracks where water may enter. Inspect plumbing including the refrigerator ice maker line, dishwasher and washing machine for leaks. Perform necessary maintenance if any issues/leaks are found.
• Use exhaust fans in the kitchen, laundry room and bathroom.

Contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 if you need assistance after a water damage or discover microbial growth.

Hardwood Floor Cleaning Tips

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

To keep your hardwood floors looking good longer, follow some simple tips:

• Clean spills immediately and do not use an excessive amount of water when cleaning the spill or during regular cleaning of your floor. Wood expands when wet and can damage your floor.
• Do not use a cleaner containing ammonia or oil soaps (they will dull the finish). Be sure to use cleaners that do not leave a film or residue behind. If not sure which cleaner to use, check with your local flooring company or other flooring professional for advice on your floor.
• Use floor mats or rugs (without rubber backing) to protect your hardwood floor. Floor mats at the entry door(s) aid in preventing dirt and grime from scratching your floors when people use them to clean their shoes. Area rugs can be used under or in front of furniture to protect the floor as well. Be sure to clean rugs by either vacuuming them or shaking them regularly.

Outdoor Fire Safety Tips

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

When using your grill, make sure that it is positioned away from roof edges, siding, decking, tree branches and any other flammable material that could catch fire. Always use long-handled barbecue tools and never leave the grill while cooking.

Plant small, high moisture plants near your home instead of large plants or bushes. This will keep them from catching fire and spreading the fire to your home. Parallel fences should not be installed next to your home as they give fire fuel to burn hotter, longer and spread to other property. If there is fencing around your home, it should be a single fence and have metal or stone fence materials such as a metal gate, 5 feet from the house to your wooden fence.

Build campfires at least 15 feet away from tent walls, shrubs or things that burn. Be sure and use a metal screen over wood-burning fires to keep sparks from floating out. Turn off or put out fires before you leave your backyard or campsite.

Damaging Winds

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Damaging winds are called “straight-line” winds so as not to confuse the damage they cause with tornado damage. Damage from severe thunderstorm winds is more common than damage from tornadoes. Damaging winds are classified as those exceeding 50-60mph.  Wind speeds can reach up to 100mph and can produce damage extending for hundreds of miles.

Since most thunderstorms produce some straight-line winds, anyone living in thunderstorm prone areas is at a risk for experiencing wind damage. People living in mobile homes are especially at risk from injury. Even mobile homes that have been anchored can be severely damaged by high wind gusts.

Wind damage can topple trees and send other outdoor items (chairs, grills, etc.) into the side of your home or outbuilding. The resulting damage could allow water from the thunderstorm to get into the structure causing even more damage to your home or outbuilding.

Should you experience either wind or water damage, call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 to assist you with the damage. We are here to help!

Flash Flooding

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Flash flooding is most often caused by heavy or excessive rainfall from thunderstorms in a short period of time. Other causes of flash flooding could be the result of dam, levee, or ice jam break.

Flash flooding can occur within minutes or hours of excessive rainfall. The intensity of the rainfall, location, and type of land use (suburban, urban, farm, etc.) all determine how quickly the flash flooding may occur. Urbans areas are prone to flooding in short time spans due to the amount of asphalt and concrete (sidewalks).  These surfaces do not allow the water to go into the ground causing flash flooding more rapidly.

Flash flooding can happen so quickly that people can be caught off-guard. If you encounter high, fast moving water when you are driving, do not drive through the water. It is too dangerous and could cause your vehicle to be washed away with you in it. If you are at home or work, the water could come into the structure you are in and either trap you inside or cause property damage without you having time to protect either you or the property.

If you hear a watch or warning from the weather station, assess your situation and be prepared.

Safety Reminders for Commercial Property (Part 2)

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Emergency Lights and Exit Signs:

When a fire occurs, electrical power to the building could be lost. Even if power is not lost, smoke can make it difficult to find your way out. Emergency lights and lighted exit signs are designed to come on when main power supplies are no longer working. Both the emergency lights and lighted exit signs light up to make it easier for your employees/tenants to find their way out of the building.

Regular inspections of both emergency lights and exits signs should be done on a monthly basis to ensure that they are working properly. The test can be performed by simply pressing the test button on the individual exit signs and emergency lights. If any are found to not perform properly, have them inspected by an electrician.

Hazardous Materials -Flammable Substances

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

When filling portable gasoline containers, be sure to place them on the ground when filling them. Use only approved containers and be sure to fill them in a well-ventilated area.

Gasoline, propane, oil, paint and varnish should be sealed and stored in a building or shed away from your home. Flammable items should be stored on shelves away from appliances. Oily rags should also be kept in a well-ventilated area and away from heat sources. As oily rags begin to dry, heat is produced. If they are piled up, oxygen can be trapped underneath. The combination of heat, oxygen and the cloth could lead to spontaneous combustion causing a fire.

If a spill would occur, clean the area and place the containers in a well-ventilated area. If the spill is too large and cannot be controlled or you are unsure about the proper cleanup and/or disposal, call your local fire department for assistance.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties cares about your safety.

Different Terms for Snow

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Snowflakes are ice crystals that cling to each other as they fall. Precipitation continues to fall as snow when the temperature remains at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Snow flurries is light snow for short periods that result in either no accumulation or a light dusting.

Snow showers vary in intensity for brief periods and have some accumulation.

Snowstorms produce a heavy accumulation of snow with high winds.

Blowing snow is wind-driven snow that causes drifting and reduces visibility. This type of snowstorm can either come from loose snow on the ground or falling snow.

Blizzards have sustained wind or frequent gusts of winds 35mph or higher. In order to be considered a blizzard, it also has to have blowing snow reducing visibility to under a quarter mile and/or heavy snowfall and continue for three consecutive hours.

Important Safety Tips on Smoking

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

It is important for smokers to know the steps they can take to keep themselves and their families safe from fire. Smoking is a leading cause of home fire deaths. The main cause of e-cigarette fires and explosions is failure of the lithium-ion batteries.

Many things in your home can catch on fire if they come into contact with a cigarette or ashes from a cigarette so it is safer to smoke outside.

Mattresses and bedding can catch fire easily and you could fall asleep while smoking, so never smoke in bed.

Never smoke after taking medicine that makes you feel tired. It could prevent you from starting a fire or escaping if a fire did start.

Never smoke around medical oxygen. Even if the oxygen is turned off, it could still cause a fire if a flame or spark is near.

Put your cigarette out in an ashtray or bucket with sand. Make sure that they are completely out before walking away from them.

Don’t charge your e-cigarette with a phone or tablet charger and never charge your e-cigarette overnight.

Protect your e-cigarette from extreme temperatures and keep them away from metal objects.

Be sure to store loose batteries for your e-cigarette in a case.

Electrical and Appliance Fire Safety

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Do not overload electrical sockets!

Over half of all home electrical fires involve lighting equipment or home electrical wiring.

• Check your electrical cords for cracks or damages. If damage is found, don’t try to repair them. Replace them instead.
• Extension cords should only be used as a temporary source. Have an electrician install additional outlets, if needed.
• Don’t overload extension cords or wall outlets.
• Never use an extension cord with a heat-producing appliance (coffee maker, space heater, or microwave). Plug only one heat-producing appliance directly into a wall outlet at a time.
• Major appliances, such as a refrigerator, stove, washer, or dryer should be plugged directly into a wall outlet.
• Use power strips that have internal overload protection.
• Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on a lamp or light fixture.

Refrigerator Water Lines Can Cause Damage to Your Home

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Water lines to refrigerators are one of the causes of water damage to your home. Whether the line is to your ice maker or provides water from the refrigerator, either one can fail. One cause of failure is improper installation by not leaving any slack in the water line when it is connected. The slack is necessary so that when you pull out the refrigerator it does not pull on the line. The slack in the line should be rolled up correctly in order to prevent a pinch in the line. A pinch in the line could lead to a leak especially with copper lines.

Refrigerator water lines can either develop a slow leak and not be found for some time or they can “burst” and flood your home. Either one, water damage occurs.

If you find yourself in either situation, give us a call at 540-433-6100. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is here to help with any size water damage.

Safety Reminders for Commercial Property (Part 1)

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Extinguishers and Fire Alarms:

Most codes require access to fire extinguishers so that no one should travel less than 75 feet to get to a fire extinguisher in order to put out a small fire.  Multipurpose fire extinguishers come in different classes. Those rated A, B and C or combination of these classes (A-B or A-B-C) are capable of putting out small fires involving paper, wood, gases and oils.  Make sure that your employees or tenants know how to operate the fire extinguisher.

Fire alarms are a first line of defense against potential fires. A fire alarm alerts lets everyone in the building know that a potential danger exists. Immediate evacuation should follow when an alarm sounds. If a false alarm should occur, it should be recognized as a confirmation that the system works and that the employees/tenants should take it seriously the next time an alarm goes off.

Regular Inspections of both fire extinguishers and fire alarms should be done on at least a yearly basis.

Differences in Frostbite and Frostnip

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Frostbite is an injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues.

Frostbite causes loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers and toes. Exposed skin in cold, windy weather is the most vulnerable to have frostbite but skin covered by clothing or gloves can also develop frostbite. Frostbite can also occur by touching ice, cold packs or frozen metal.

Signs of frostbite are cold and a prickling feeling, numbness, red, white, bluish-white or grayish-yellow looking skin, firm or waxy feeling skin, joint or muscle stiffness causing clumsiness.

Seek medical attention if experiencing fever, increased pain, swelling, redness or discharge in the area where the frostbite occurred.

Frostnip is a milder form of injury from the cold that irritates the skin causing redness and a cold feeling followed by numbness but does not cause permanent damage to the skin.

Frostnip can be treated with first aid measures: go to a warm room, soak in warm water or use body heat to warm up. Do not massage or use a heating pad.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties cares about your safety during winter weather.

Holiday Fire Safety Tips

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

When getting ready for the holidays, be sure to keep safety in mind.

The top three days of the year for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

• Check holiday lights before putting them up for frayed wires or excessive wear.
• Don’t put more than three strands of lights together.
• Consider using batter-operated flameless candles and if using regular candles be sure to trim the wicks before lighting and never leave them unattended. Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything flammable.
• Place your live Christmas tree away from any heat sources and room exits. Be sure to water your live Christmas tree daily to prevent it from drying out. Get rid of your Christmas tree after Christmas or when it is dry.

Prepare Yourself for Storms

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

When extreme weather is predicted, you should prepare yourself.  Advisories and warnings are issued through the radio, internet and television for your safety.

• Stock up on non-perishable foods, batteries for flashlights and radios.
• Check outside for any items that can be blown around, such as garbage cans and patio furniture. These items can be picked up by the wind and cause damage to property and injure people.
• Cut down dead tree branches and dead trees to aid in preventing the risk of falling during the storm.
• Do not use an ordinary phone line during a storm, use a cell phone instead.
• If you have animals, bring them inside and make sure they have sufficient food and water.

Preparing yourself before a storm hits can save lives (whether human or animal) and minimize damage to property. Be prepared and stay safe.

Washing Machines and Water Damage

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage from malfunctioning or leaking washing machines often get overlooked until it actually causes extensive damage.

Washing machine hoses can cause leaks or extensive water damage if they burst.  Most washing machine hoses are made of reinforced polymer or rubber, which lose resiliency as they age. This makes them more likely to crack, leak or burst.

You should inspect both your hot and cold hoses regularly. Look for cracks, kinks and/or bulges on the hoses as well as any moisture or rust. All of these are signs that the hoses could cause water damage. If you find any damaged hoses when inspecting them, be sure to replace them right away and make sure that they are properly installed without any bends or kinks.

Also make sure that the washing machine is level. By doing this, you prevent added stress on the connections and hoses by not having your machine unbalanced. An unbalance machine can “move or walk” when in use.

Causes of Toilet Leaks

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Toilet leaks are caused by a variety of reasons.

A toilet tank can loosen over time. Tanks should fit tightly onto the seat. If you notice water seeping out at the base of the tank it could be from a loose tank.

The wax ring at the base of the toilet can dry out or get damaged causing the seal to be broken. If you notice water coming from the base of the toilet, this could be the cause.

The bolts that hold the toilet to the floor can also loosen over time. If water “pools” at the base of the toilet when you flush, it could be coming from the bolts not been tight enough. You can fix this problem by tightening the bolts but be careful not to overtighten them as this can lead to cracks in the toilet.

A damaged flange can also be the cause of a leaking toilet. If it is damaged, it requires replacing the whole flange or filling in the missing piece.

A leaking toilet should be fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the flooring and subfloor.

Water in Basements

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

The most common type of water damage in a basement is from a broken pipe. A sewer line, water supply line, washing machine discharge line and even outside faucets cause water damage to a basement.

Also, underground water can cause the surrounding ground to shift. Water can seep behind walls. Water damage in a basement can cause major structural damage. Cracks in walls, ceilings and floors are evidence of damages that could be caused by underground water if no other source has been found.

Floods and water emergencies can happen anytime. You should know where your main water cutoff is located. Turning off the water will prevent further damage, but only if you can safely do so. A submersible pump in the basement can also assist in keeping the water from causing further damage.

If you experience a water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100. We are available 24/7 365 days a year.

Flooding from Winter Storms

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Most people think of snowstorms or blizzards during the winter. Not many people think about winter flooding. Flooding can result from rain, snow, overflow of dams and rivers. Flooding can occur slowly or quickly; flash flooding can occur with no warning. You can experience power outages, washed out roads or blocked roads from debris or high water. Buildings including homes can be damaged.

If you are in a flooding situation:

• Do not walk, swim or drive through flood water -just six inches of moving water can knock you down and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Depending on what type of flooding is occurring and your location: evacuate if instructed to do so, move to higher ground or an upper floor, stay where you are.

When Winter Storms Occur

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Winter storms and blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and/or high winds.

Winter storms can last a few hours or several days. They can knock out heat, power and communication services and close roads.

 If a winter storm warning occurs:

• Listen for emergency information and alerts
• Stay off roads if at all possible. If you get trapped in your car, stay put until help arrives.
• Limit time outdoors, stay inside and dress warmly.
• Prepare for power outages by having extra batteries for radios and flashlights.
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by using generators outside only and away from windows.
• Never use a gas oven or stove to heat your home.
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow, which could lead to a heart attack.

Different Types of Winter Storm Damages

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Typical winter storms create a buildup of snow and ice. Depending on the temperatures, snow and ice can be on the ground or roofs for days or weeks.

When the temperatures warm up, the snow and ice begin to thaw which could cause a flooding issue. The water can then enter your basement or home causing water damage and if not found for a while, mold could start to grow.

Winter storms also can cause water pipes to freeze. As water freezes in a pipe, it expands which can cause the pipe to burst. It is important to have the name and number of a plumber so that if you don’t have running water after a winter storm, they can be called to check for a frozen or burst pipe. A burst pipe can cause the whole house to be without water as well as causing damage to the home itself.

Roofs can also be damaged during winter storms. Most people don’t remove the snow or ice from their roofs which can cause the roof to collapse or create ice dams. Roof damage can also come from high winds during a winter storm. In addition to damage to the roof itself, other parts of the home could experience water damage due to roof leaks.

If you experience any water damages due to winter storms, give us a call at 540-433-6100.

Fire Safety Tips for Condominiums and High-Rise Apartments

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Fires in condominiums and high-rise apartments are especially dangerous.

Make sure that you know where all exit stairs are in your building and select an outside meeting place.

If you would happen to have a fire in your building, it is important to have a plan in place.

Leave your apartment and close the door behind you which helps with keeping the fire from spreading as fast.

Pull the fire alarm on your way out to alert your neighbors and the fire department.

USE the stairs to exit the building. Do NOT use the elevators unless directed by the fire department to do so.

Go to your outside meeting spot and stay there. Call the fire department and if someone is trapped in the building, let the fire department know.

COOKING SAFETY TIPS

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and injuries.

Be aware of your cooking temperature. Fires start when the heat is too high. If there are signs of smoke or the grease starts boiling, turn off the burner.

Watch what you are cooking, especially when frying foods. Most cooking fires start when someone is frying food.

Roll up your sleeves or wear short sleeves to keep them from catching fire when cooking.

Keep things away from the stove: dishtowels, bags, boxes, paper and curtains. All of these can easily catch on fire.

Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove, this helps in keeping them from being bumped or children pulling them off of the stove.

Make sure to keep children and pets three feet away from a hot stove to prevent injuries.

Fire Sprinklers -How They Work

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Fire sprinklers work when high heat triggers the system.  The air above a blaze heats rapidly and the hot air then rises and spreads along the ceiling. When the air is hot enough and reaches a sprinkler head, it sets things into motion. Most sprinkler heads have a glass bulb with a glycerin-based liquid which expands when it encounters air temperatures between 135 and 165 degrees. The expanded liquid causes the glass to shatter and activates the sprinkler head.

Sprinkler heads are attached to pipes, which are connected to an outside water source.  The heat activates the sprinkler head, opening a valve which then allows pressurized water from the pipes to flow out.  Pressurized water allows the water to spray outward to cover more area of the fire.

Fire sprinkler heads work individually which allows water damage to be confined to smaller areas than a fire department using a fire hose to put out the fire. So, fire sprinklers in your commercial business help minimize both the original fire damage and the water damage that occurs when putting the fire out!

If you experience a fire damage in your commercial business, give SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties a call at 540-433-6100 to assist you.

Preparing Your Commercial Business for Winter Weather

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Fall is here and winter is not far behind. Now is the time to start thinking about preparing your business for winter weather.

• Inspect your walkways and parking lots. Look for proper drainage as issues can be a potential flood hazard, also check for places where icy spots can cause someone to slip and fall.
• Have salt on hand to use on any icy spots to assist in the melting process and assign a designated person to apply the salt before other employees arrive.
• Check your roof for any leaves or branches that may have accumulated from wind or heavy rains during the spring and summer months. This will make it easier to clean the snow off the roofs to prevent potential water damage or roof collapse due to heavy snowfall.

Fire Damage in Your Commercial Business

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

A fire damage in your commercial building can be overwhelming.

Once the fire has been extinguished and the ashes have settled, it is time to assess the damage. In addition to the obvious damage, you as a business owner need to consider other things as well: the impact to your employees, customers or tenants, the loss of inventory and business-related transactions. The building may need to be secured and protected from additional damage that could occur. It will need to be properly and thoroughly cleaned, as well as be back into working order as soon as possible.

We, here at SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties know that your business is important to all involved and if you should experience a fire or smoke damage, give us a call at 540-433-6100. We are here to help!

Fire Safety in the Workplace

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Safety in the workplace should be one of the main topics for business owners, no matter what type of business is involved.

 A good safety plan should include:

• An evacuation strategy to make it safer for employees and customers to exit the building.
• Maintenance of safety equipment: smoke alarms, fire extinguishers and sprinkler systems to include routine inspections.
• Posting of clear exits and escape routes using a map to show marked exits along with lighted signs or floor lights on main walkways.
• Proper storage and disposal of hazardous materials informing employees of the use of appropriate protective gear when handling and disposing of hazardous materials.
• Eliminating electrical hazards such as frayed wiring and overloaded outlets.

Taking the time to implement a safety plan and following it can save lives.

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS -BATTERIES AND HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

It is important to know how to keep everyone in your household safe from accidents. Batteries and household chemicals pose safety issues.

Batteries

• Used/dead batteries can remain a fire hazard. Place a piece of tape over the battery terminals before disposing or recycling them.
• Do not use wet or damaged batteries.
• Do not overcharge lithium batteries or dispose of them in your household trash.

Household Chemicals

• Follow the instructions on the label when you use household chemicals.
• Do not mix products. Products can cause fires or deadly gases when mixed.
• Always wear gloves or goggles when using chemicals to protect your eyes and skin.
• Store household chemicals in their original containers.
• Check instructions on the label for proper storage:
  • Flammable chemicals should not be stored in the sun or near a heat source
  • Chemicals should be out of children’s and pet's reach.

Smoke Alarm Safety

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Three out of five home fire deaths are a result of non-working smoke alarms.

• When choosing a smoke alarm for your home, choose interconnected smoke alarms, so when one goes off, they all will.
• Make sure that the alarms work by testing them once a month and replacing the batteries at least once a year.
• Replace your smoke alarm every 10 years.
• If you have a wood or gas fireplace/stove or other gas appliance, you should have a combination carbon monoxide/smoke detector installed instead of just a smoke alarm.

Working carbon monoxide/smoke detector save lives.  Make sure to have alarms on every level of your home, inside and outside each bedroom or sleeping area. When a smoke alarm goes off, you may less then 2 minutes to get everyone out.

Dangers of Thunderstorms

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can cause fire and water damage.

Thunderstorms are rain showers in which lightning occurs; thunder comes from the lightning.

Thunderstorms usually happen in the spring and summer during afternoon and evening hours, but they can occur all year long and at all hours. 

A severe thunderstorm includes hail and/or wind gusting in excess of 57.5 mph (50 knots). Under the right conditions, thunderstorms can cause flash flooding. The lightning can cause fires and fatalities. Large hail (golf ball or softball size) can damage cars, windows and kill animals caught outside. Strong winds can knock down power lines and trees. Mobile homes can be knocked over as well.

If your home or business should receive water or fire damage from a thunderstorm, give us a call at 540-433-6100. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is here to help!

Home Heating Fire Safety

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

Space Heater Safety

Heating your home is the second leading cause of home fires.

 If heating your home with a wood burning stove or fireplace, you should have your chimney and vents professionally cleaned every year.

 Place cooled ashes in a tightly covered metal container. Keep the container outside and away from any structures. It should be at least 10 feet away from your home and any other buildings.

 Make sure to keep anything that could burn at least 3 feet from whatever heat source you use to heat your home (wood stove, fireplace, space heaters or radiators).

 You should only plug in one heat producing appliance (electric fireplace or space heater into an electrical outlet at a time. Make sure they have an automatic shutoff.

 Never use a stove or oven to heat your home and be sure to turn off your space heater when leaving the room or going to bed.

Inspecting Plumbing at Your Commercial Business

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

At least once a month, your maintenance department or someone in your office should look at pipes and fixtures to check for moisture.

In bathrooms and kitchens, sinks and faucets should be looked at along with any refrigerator ice maker lines to offset a potential water damage. The person in charge of inspecting the plumbing should also know where the water valves are located. These should be inspected as well and by knowing where they are, they can shut them off if a water damage should occur. Quickly turning off water valves in the case of a water damage can save your commercial business from further damage.

By preventing extensive property damage, you not only save the cost of the damages but also prevent interruption to your business itself.

Maintain Bathroom Plumbing

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Maintaining your bathroom plumbing can prevent water damages that can be costly.  Regular maintenance can be helpful in preventing not only water damage but also higher water and electric bills due to water loss.

 Leaking faucets and shower heads should be repaired or replaced.

Water shut off valves should be inspected to be sure they are working properly.

Water lines themselves should be inspected to make sure there are no leaks at the joints or pinholes in the pipes.

Toilets should be inspected to make sure that the water flow is shutting off properly and that the floor around the toilet is not “soft” indicating a defective seal.

 By checking your faucets, shower, tub, shut off valves, water lines and toilet on a regular basis you may prevent a more costly expense by preventing a water damage to occur. However, if you do experience a water damage, we will be ready to assist you. Call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100.

Fire Safety During a Home Fire

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

If you find yourself trapped in a fire situation in your home:

 Before opening a door, check to see if the doorknob or door is hot. If either one of them are, leave the door closed and use a different way out if possible.

 If you open a door, do it slowly. Be ready to close it fast if heavy smoke or fire is seen.

 If you cannot get out, close the door, place something such as clothing, towel, or tape around the door to keep smoke out. Cover any vents in the room as well. Stay where you are and signal for help by using a flashlight or light-colored cloth at a window.

 Stay low to the floor when exiting the room or while waiting for help to arrive.

 Call 911 as soon as possible.

Storm Watch and Storm Warning Have Different Meanings

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

When you hear that a storm watch or storm warning is in effect, do you know the difference?

 A storm watch means that upcoming potentially dangerous weather conditions are expected to occur. These conditions such as heavy rains, strong winds or hailstorms can occur based on the weather pattern that is currently being forecast.

A storm warning means that potentially danger weather is either in or near your location and that severe conditions have already been observed.

In addition to the meaning of the watch or warning, the difference also applies to the time involved to take action and get to safety.  A storm watch lets you know that it may take several hours to reach you and a storm warning lets you know to take immediate action to find safety.

Either a storm watch or storm warning can result in storm damage to your home or business.

Contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100, if this happens to you.

Hurricane Season Can Cause Major Water and Wind Damage

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are accompanied by heavy rains and violent winds. Heavy rains can cause flooding, potentially devastating large areas in the path of the hurricane. High sustained winds within the storm can cause widespread damage to structures. The prevailing winds of a hurricane can cause a storm surge (wall of water). If the storm occurs during high tide, it causes beach erosion and inland flooding. Tornadoes can also be a result of a hurricane's high winds.

The extent of hurricane damage depends on the strength of the storm and how it makes contact with the land. It can level everything in its path or do very little damage. If your home or business is affected by water damage or wind damage, we can help.

 For any and all storm damages, you can call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100. 

SERVPRO Water and/or Fire Damage Contact Questions

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

What questions to expect when you contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties for assistance on a water or fire damage at your home or business.

When you call, we will ask specific questions relating to your loss. These questions will help us determine what equipment and trained personnel we will need to assist you. While this is not a complete list of the questions you might be asked, it is some that of the most often asked ones.

Questions asked include:

• Your name, address, and phone number
• The loss address if different from the caller’s
• Insurance information (if applicable)
• When did the loss occur?
• What is the cause of loss?
• What is affected by the loss (number of rooms, walls, flooring, contents, etc.)?
• Is there is electricity or water available at the loss site?

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is locally owned and operated. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 day a week, 365 days a year.  Contact us at 540-433-6100.

Pool Safety

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Backyard pools are becoming more common and safety is especially important.

All backyard pools should be surrounded by a fence and have self-closing and self-latching gates. The fence should be at least 4 feet high and away from areas where children could climb over them.

All people using the pool area should know how to swim and/or wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. But do not rely on them to keep inexperienced swimmers and children safe. Make sure that an adult is constantly watching children swimming or playing in or near the pool. Never leave children unattended or trust a child’s life to another child.

Have a phone nearby in case of an emergency. Learn CPR (including infant and children CPR) in case someone falls into the pool and stops breathing. You may be able to assist the person until paramedics arrive.

Backyard pools also can cause water damage by heavy rainfalls overfilling pools and flooding structures.

Above ground pools have on occasion had their sides buckle and cause the water to collapse the walls of the pools causing water damages to structures as well.

If water damage should occur at your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100. We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Lawnmowers Can Cause Fire Damage

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

Any lawn mower, electric or gas can catch fire. 

Fuel hazards are one of the leading reasons for fire in the gas-powered lawnmower. Fuel leaking onto the motor, as well as fuel vapors around a hot muffler can cause a fire.  A gas cap leak or sloppy fueling can easily spark a fire. 

Experts recommend that you fill a mower only when it is cool.

Gas powered mowers are not the only type responsible for fires. Electric mowers can have a short in the circuit board or power cord.

Mowers frequently cause fires by the way they are used as well. Using a mower in tall, dry grass can cause the grass to become stuck in the mower deck. This grass gets packed into the hot muffler and catches fire. Not only does the mower get burned, it can set off a grass or field fire which could also affect structures such as homes, garages and outbuildings. 

Best practices for using your lawn mower include:

* Never fuel up a hot mower.

* Replace any leaky gas caps.

* Clear rocks from the mowing area.

* Keep the mower clean of fuel.

* Routinely clean out grass from the mower blades with a hose. Never put your hands near the blade unless the spark plug has been disconnected and the unit has completely cooled.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is available 24/7 365 days a year to assist you with fire/smoke damages at your home or business. Contact us at 540-433-6100

Beware of Carbon Monoxide

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties (540-433-6100) wants everyone to stay safe and be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide.

People associate carbon monoxide with wood burning stoves during cold weather.  However, carbon monoxide poisoning can happen anytime. Carbon Monoxide fumes are produced by automobiles, gas appliances (water heaters, washers, dryers, stoves), generators, lanterns and both charcoal and gas grills all which are used for camping and at home. Fumes from these sources can build up in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces and cause sickness and even death.

 Carbon Monoxide Poisoning is Preventable

• Never leave a vehicle running in your garage (even with the door open).
• Never use a generator, camp stove, gas lantern or charcoal/gas grill in an enclosed space (examples: home, basement, garage, or camper) or outside less than 20 feet away from an open window or door. The fumes can be drawn inside if located to close to an enclosed structure. 
• Make sure that gas appliances are working properly.

Continuing Education Classes Cancelled

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

The continuing education classes that were scheduled to be held by SERVPRO of Rockingham and August Counties on April 14^th, 2020 at Wood Grill Buffet in Harrisonburg from 9:00am -4:30pm have been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The good news is that we have rescheduled the same three classes to be held on Wednesday, September 23, 2020 (same place, same times). SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta County will be offering the following free classes: Ethics, Restoring Contaminated Buildings and Cleaning and Restoring Smoke Damage Contents.

As time gets closer, we will distribute flyers to individual offices and update our website. If there is anyone that had not signed up for our April class and would like to be added to a list to be contacted for our September classes, please call our office at 540-433-6100.

Daylight Savings Time -SERVPRO available 24/7

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

No matter what the time!

Get ready to spring forward! Daylight savings time starts this weekend. On March 8, 2020 at 2:00am clocks are to be set forward one hour.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is committed to providing 24-hour emergency service to help you when you need it the most. If a fire or water damage would hit your property, SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is here to assist you with the loss around the clock -24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year (or 366 days when its leap year).

So, enjoy your extra hour of sunlight this weekend and if the “worst” happens, give us a call at 540-433-6100 and we will make it "Like it never even happened."

Continuing Education Classes

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties will be hosting continuing education classes in April of this year.

We will be offering three free classes for insurance and Real Estate professionals to earn credits to help them meet their requirements for license renewal.

Classes are scheduled for April 14, 2020 at Wood Grill Buffet on Reservoir Street in Harrisonburg. Registration starts at 8:30am with the first class starting at 9:00am. Registration is required. Lunch will be provided.

Below are classes offered, credits to be earned and times of each class:

• Ethics - 3 credits - 9:00am -12:00pm
• Restoring Contaminated Buildings -2 credits – 12:30pm -2:30pm
• Cleaning and Restoring Smoke Damage Contents – 2 credits -2:30pm -4:30pm

Please contact our office at 540-433-6100 to register. 

Get Expert Fire Damage Cleanup For your Rockingham and Augusta Home

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster and restore the house to its preloss condition.

A fire disaster in your home is a traumatic experience, and it can also cause devastating losses. Smoke and soot can affect different surfaces, including walls, ceilings, floors, appliances, and upholstery. You need to act quickly after a fire loss to restore your home to its pre-damaged state.

In an unfortunate event of fire damage in your Rockingham and Augusta County home, call fire restoration professionals immediately to prevent further damage. Lingering smoke and soot from the fire can circulate throughout your home and harm the indoor air quality. A professional restoration company such as SERVPRO can help you take care of the damage. We have the experience, workforce, and equipment required to deal with fire loss incidents.

If the flames caused an opening in your home, we could board up the area to secure your property and prevent damage that precipitation may cause. If there is no power in your home after the incident, our crew can use flashlights and power generators to establish emergency lighting.

A fire may also leave debris in your home like broken items and nails, and they can cause injuries to the people living in it. The exterior of your house may also have items that may need to be disposed of, such as torn gutters, ash, and damaged shingles. Our crew can remove such items to simplify the restoration process.

Our technicians can also perform initial cleaning to prevent secondary destruction from soot residues. We can pre-clean furniture and soot to remove the heaviest soot. Our Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technicians (FSRTs) may also wipe acidic soot residues from metals and porcelain. We perform a thorough cleaning of the affected structures and contents with environmentally friendly products.

Our SERVPRO technicians can also wet clean some of your possessions to remove moderate to heavy residues. Wet cleaning is suitable for items that do not sustain damage when soaked in water. After cleanup, we can deodorize your home and its contents using air scrubbers or thermal fogging.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 is ready to handle fire damage in your home. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster and will restore the house to its preloss condition.

Take The Stress Out of Water Damage Remediation

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can lead to uncontrolled mold growth if not treated properly.

Creating the Ideal Drying Conditions for Water Restoration in your Rockingham and Augusta Home

In dealing with any property restoration emergency, having access to the correct equipment goes a long way to reducing your claims loss expense. This principle is especially true in situations involving water, which can deteriorate contents, structure, and fittings overnight. One of the essential methods we use to reduce losses in your property is understanding how to dry your structure and contents properly. That means using moisture detection sensors, creating the right atmosphere for efficient drying and bringing in industrial extraction equipment. 

The task of water restoration in your Rockingham and Augusta home is to build on the foundations of careful psychrometric measurements taken regularly to control losses. Increasing the temperature in a closed area, for example, allows the interior air to take on more moisture- this process can increase the efficiency of air-moving equipment. However, to create optimum drying conditions, a SERVPRO technician must take regular readings using thermal hygrometers to ensure that the indoor air is not overloaded with moisture, which can slow drying times. 

While restoration is underway, a SERVPRO technician may tent off the affected area to gain better control of the indoor environment. High levels of humidity, which are a natural byproduct of drying procedure, can also create ideal conditions for microbial growth. Leaving a humid environment overnight can lead to further damages. SERVPRO technicians may create an open system, by opening windows or allowing ventilation to exchange humid interior air with drier outdoor air, to prevent secondary issues like mold growth from occurring. 

Using our training in combination with advanced drying equipment allows SERVPRO technicians to dry a structure without risking secondary damages confidently. By creating the ideal drying conditions, the expense of your claim is significantly reduced, and your home has the best chance of returning to its preloss conditions. We can forward the paperwork to your insurance adjuster to ease the claims process and let you get back to your everyday life with as little inconvenience as possible. 

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 is ready to handle flood damage in your home. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster and restore the house to its pre-flood condition.

Now You Can Have Safe Flood Damage Remediation in Your Rockingham and Augusta Home

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Flood damage almost always occurs at the most inopportune times.

Flood Damage in Your Rockingham and Augusta Homes? Call Us!

Summer storms in Rockingham and Augusta are a common occurrence. Large puffy clouds regularly roll over the area, helping keep the weather cool in the summer. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that clouds can quickly unleash torrents of rains, causing flooding in your home.  

Often flood damage in Rockingham and Augusta homes occurs after heavy storms. If this happens to you, then you need professionals who can quickly work to resolve your issues. Our teams of SERVPRO water damage restoration technicians (WRT) can arrive on your property within hours of your call to begin extracting water. We can utilize industrial-grade wet vacs and pumps to speed up the process. Floods typically consist of Category 3 black water, which can soil absorbent substances, forcing us to discard them. 

As a homeowner, you have several options for mitigating any further damage before SERVPRO crews arrive. Here are some tips we recommend you follow to help reduce damages: 

- For your safety, make sure to wear protective clothing (such as tall rubber boots) before coming into contact with contaminated water. 

- Extract contaminated upholstery pieces from your home so that they can be properly disposed of. 

- Move your furniture out of the floodwaters. 

- Wipe down wooden sections of furniture with a wet rag to help prevent the formation of water lines. 

Once we are present, we can remove absorbent materials such as carpeting that can be more difficult for you to remove on your own. This can be accomplished with the use of carpet removal tools. We can then use air movers and dehumidifiers to pull moisture out of your sub-flooring to fully dry it. 

Additionally, we can identify hidden moisture in your home using moisture sensors after pumping out the floodwater. This allows us to identify areas that require further use of dehumidifiers and air movers to thoroughly dry out. 

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 is ready to handle flood damage in your home. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster and restore the house to its pre-flood condition.

Discover Secrets to Waterproofing Your Rockingham and Augusta Crawlspace Before Storms Set in

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

If your crawlspace is getting excess water, contact SERVPRO to remediate and offer waterproofing options for your home.

Waterproofing and Sump Pumps for Rockingham and Augusta Crawlspaces

Severe storms are a regular part of Rockingham and Augusta's weather. They flood homes quickly, leaving a mess of not only a homeowner’s personal property but also their residence itself. For homes with crawlspaces underneath, this can be a problem that affects the structural integrity, destroys items in storage, and even lead to a mold infestation if not dealt with quickly.
 
In these cases, waterproofing is needed for Rockingham and Augusta residential crawlspaces. SERVPRO restoration teams can seal off almost any type of leak into one unless there is major damage to the exterior walls or the sub-floor above it.
 
If standing water is a recurring issue with every rain, then the homeowner has two problems: Leaks and seeps into the crawlspace, and very slow or no drainage. Our technicians can address both of them simultaneously.
 
Team members remove water with a commercial pump and then use a combination of hand-drying methods and dehumidifiers to remove any moisture left in the crawlspace. Then they cover the dirt floor with thick, polyethylene sheets to serve as a vapor barrier, preventing water from seeping up inside. Team members extend these sheets up and onto the walls, securing them together and to the walls with two-sided, foundation tape.
 
Before securing them to the walls, however, an inspector carefully examines the walls for any cracks or leaks. SERVPRO specialists fill them with hydraulic cement that blocks further water intrusion. Next, they seal every wall with a masonry cement that reduces water seepage from outside the home. Once they complete the walls, team members seal the polyethylene sheets in place.
 
Water can still penetrate through wood floors, however. In areas that flood regularly, the solution for recurring flooding may be to install a sump pump. These devices work automatically, and when water is detected, they switch on to remove it until the level returns to normal. Our technicians can install a sump pump and have it working in a day.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 is ready to handle flood damage in your home. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster and restore the house to its pre-flood condition.

Share the Warmth

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Provide heating assistance to those in need in the valley.

Harrisonburg Radio and SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties are teaming up with The Salvation Army in an effort to provide heating assistance for those in need in the Valley. Come on in and drop off your blankets to Share the Warmth!

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 is always here to help out the community! 

SERVPRO will clean your flood damage in Rockingham and Augusta the right way

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

Have flood damage? Contact our certified team for a fast response.

Two things about flood damage when it occurs: first, cleanup has to start quickly. Second, all water requires the removal, and inadequate extraction of water leaves the property open for more costly issues. 

SERVPRO technicians utilize a wide array of water extraction equipment when working on flood damage in a Rockingham or Augusta property. Each surface and amount of water dictates the type of removal equipment chosen for use. Before water removal efforts commence, technicians scope the property using different kinds of moisture detection devices to ascertain areas where there are excessive levels of moisture that require extraction or drying attention.

Special Attention to the Subfloor

When water enters a property, it follows the path of least resistance and migrates into the subflooring rapidly. The use of inadequate or improper removal methods leaves the property open for the weakening of the building materials, foul odors, and mold infestations. Technicians use squeegee attachments when pooling water is an issue. 

Hardwood Flooring with Water Damage

Wood flooring constructed from composite never fares well with water exposure and is generally a loss. Hardwood flooring has restoration potential on a case by case basis partly determined on the category and length of water exposure. SERVPRO technicians use squeegee attachments with wet vacuums and follow up using drying mats to limit the warping or buckling. 

Water Extraction from Carpets

In cases of wet carpeting from rainwater entering the home and the cleanup started within 24 hours, there is potential for restoration of the carpet. SERVPRO technicians use a host of tools such as pumps with weighted carpet wands or deep extractor tools, and Rovers that use the weight of a technician to push water out of carpeted surfaces. When carpet absorbs groundwater, there is no restoration potential. The technicians extract the water and cut the rug into strips for easier handling. 

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 is ready to handle flood damage in your home. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster and restore the house to its pre-flood condition.

Don't Let A Pipe Burst Cause Water Damage In Your Rockingham and Augusta Home

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties can help to solve water damage problems before they get out of hand.

Leaky pipes are the banes of homeowners everywhere. While modern engineering and sealants help to prevent many of the widespread issues that plagued us in the past, even the most well-made water lines and faucets can start to leak and cause damage to your home. If you identify a leak early on, you should be able to seal up the problem on your own, but often a few hours is enough to cause enough damage to call for help from a professional damage mitigation company like SERVPRO. Here's how a small leak can cause significant problems for your home.

Bleeding Colors and Finishes
Some dyes and finishes used on wood and other materials in your home may react poorly with water, potentially causing permanent damage to your home as colors wash out and bleed into one another over time. Again, the only way to stop these problems from progressing is to dry up the water as quickly as possible. Otherwise, you may need to re-paint, re-finish, or even replace any affected parts of your home.

Mold Growth
One of the most popular reasons why we get called in to help remove mold from local homes is due to the presence of longtime leaks in cabinets and similar environments. With a steady supply of water, an environment that is almost always dark, and little activity to disturb its growth, mold can spread quickly underneath your kitchen sink. Patching up the leak and removing the water before any mold can grow is imperative to avoiding a widespread problem in your home.

Mixing with Chemicals
One of the most dangerous aspects of water damage in Harrisonburg and Augusta homes is the potential for water to mix with hazardous chemicals stored nearby. Many homes we visit have buckets and stores of cleaning chemicals directly below leaking pipes and sink basins. These can represent a significant safety hazard, especially if any of the substances are outside of their bottles (which may happen if you re-use rags and sponges). SERVPRO technicians know how to identify and take precautions against these potential safety risks so that you do not have to.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties can help to solve water damage problems before they get out of hand. Call us 24/7 at 540-433-6100 for our services or a quote.

Preventing Your Pipes from Freezing

11/14/2019 (Permalink)

Tips for preventing frozen pipes inside and outside your home

Frozen Pipes Can Burst!

It has been colder here lately in Rockingham and Augusta Counties! When cold temperatures happen that can cause pipes to freeze. Frozen Pipes can result in costly repairs to you as a home or business owner. The good news is there are ways to prevent pipes from freezing. Here are some tips for this winter. Frozen pipes are a problem by themselves because they prevent water flow, but even worse, frozen pipes can eventually burst, causing damage and potential flooding. There are ways to protect your pipes from freezing. These include:

1. Keeping your house warm - If you are leaving for a period of time, make sure that the heat is kept on at your property. You should inform them that the heat can help prevent pipes from freezing, and if pipes freeze and burst, it can cause a lot of water damage to the property and to their possessions. The heat doesn’t have to be kept as high as you normally would keep it if you were home but keeping it set above 50 degrees Fahrenheit at all times is a good idea. This should provide enough heat to keep the pipes warm and to prevent any water inside from freezing.
2. Opening faucets - When temps hit the freezing level it is a good idea to allow faucets to drip. Allowing the faucet to be open like this will relieve pressure in the pipe. If a pipe freezes, it is actually the pressure that is created between the blockage and the faucet that will cause the pipe to burst. With the faucet open you avoid blockage in the pipes.
3. Insulation is key - Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help decrease the chances of freezing. This can be an easy solution for pipes that are exposed but can get expensive if walls, floors or ceilings have to be opened in order to properly insulate the pipe. Additional insulation can also be added to walls and ceilings to keep the pipes warm.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us at (540) 433-6100.

Taking on Storms with Technology

11/14/2019 (Permalink)

Free ERP App for your home or business

These days, it is important to be ready for a storm and disaster can strike at a moment’s notice! Technology working hard to let us be aware of danger with more time to prepare before it hits! Technology can also be a vital tool in preparing for emergencies or disasters, as well as during or after to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. From common technology you already use on a day-to-day basis to taking a few extra steps to prepare. Below are a few things that will help you be ready in the event of an emergency or disaster.

Store Information Online

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

Follow the News

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

Mark Yourself Safe

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

Get in Touch

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

Charge Up

Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy solar-powered chargers as well. Get an Emergency READY Profile SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is proud to offer Emergency READY Profiles (ERP) for free at ready.SERVPRO.com to help prepares you, your property, or your business for an emergency. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your property or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.  Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your property or business. Put help in the palm of your hand with the Ready Plan App.  Get in touch with SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties today for more information on developing an ERP for your property or business! 

Thanksgiving Cautions: Dangers to Consider before Deep Frying Your Turkey

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving safety tips

Serving a deep-fried turkey on Thanksgiving has grown in popularity over the years as people experiment more in their kitchens. While it may be a mouth-watering option is the risk truly worth it? Many of you may have seen the numerous videos of turkey fryer explosions and fires publicized online. Don’t run the risk of property damage or injury – make sure you take the proper precautions when menu planning this season; especially if you are taking on a deep-fried turkey.

• Turkey Fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area. Consider the placement of the fryer, is it flat, sturdy, out of reach from children?
• An overfilled cooking pot will cause the oil to spill when the turkey is put in and a frozen or partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to splatter (sometimes with great force) when putting in the pot
• Even a small amount of cooking oil spilled on a hot burner can cause a considerable flame or fire
• Without thermostat controls, some turkey fryers can overheat oil to the point of starting a fire. Make sure it’s not too hot.
• The sides of the cooking pot, lid and handles can get dangerously hot. Protect your hands when maneuvering to prevent injury or spillage

Your friends at SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and remind you to stay safe. Remember, our team is on call 24/7 365 days a year, no matter what holiday or time of night. If you experience a fire SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties will come to your rescue, don’t hesitate to call (540) 433-6100.

7 Tips to Prevent Mold in your Commercial Business

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Why should you worry about mold in your building? According to OSHA, some mold, over time, may cause structural damage to wood along with damage to furnishings and finishes. Use the following tips to help prevent mold growth in your business.

#1: Clean Out the Refrigerator

It can be difficult to keep track of shared refrigerators. Some people will always remember to clear out their leftovers, others won’t. Old food storage containers are a perfect breeding ground for mold. Over time, mold can travel to the shelving and even outside the refrigerator. Consider instituting an office refrigerator policy. If something is left in the fridge by a certain time each week, it goes in the garbage.

#2: Look for And Repair Leaks

Leaks from plumbing, windows, roofs, and more can lead to significant water damage in your business as well as an increased risk of mold growth. If you aren’t regularly inspecting your property, it’s easy for these leaks to go unchecked until they create a larger, more costly problem. Watch for telltale signs of a leak such as lower water pressure; wet spots on the floors, ceilings, or walls; and condensation around window sills and in attic spaces.

#3: Keep It Clean

It’s easy for anyone to get caught up in work and let clutter take over his or her workspace. However, clutter creates lots of hiding spots for crumbs and dust, which are both great food sources for mold. Make sure to clear the clutter and wipe down hard surfaces regularly. Make sure to promptly clean all spills as well. Clean and sanitize break rooms and bathrooms frequently. Both rooms provide ample opportunity for mold growth. These rooms should be cleaned at least weekly depending on how regular people use each room.

#4: Turn on the AC/Dehumidifier

Leaks aren’t the only way for moisture to accumulate in your business. High humidity levels can lead to moisture and mold as well. On hot days, fans can cool you off, but they don’t do much for humidity levels. Run your AC or a dehumidifier to cut down the humidity in the building.

#5: Clean out Trash Cans

While you might switch out the liners regularly, can you remember the last time you washed out the trash cans? It’s easy for bits of food and condensation to sneak beneath liners into the can, which is all mold needs to grow. Try washing out office wastebaskets about once a month to prevent mold growth.

#6: Take Care of Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system can quickly distribute mold spores throughout your building if there is a problem. Make sure your HVAC system receives regular inspections. Sometimes moisture condenses inside air ducts or leaks drip onto ducts from ceiling tiles, which can lead to mold growth inside the ducts. Make sure to keep the HVAC drip pans clean and unobstructed. Additionally, replace your filters as needed.

#7: Slope the Ground Away from the Foundation

If the ground around your building slopes toward the foundation, water can accumulate and weaken your building’s structure. Additionally, it provides an ideal environment for mold to grow. The ground should slope away from the building. You should also make sure your building follows the local building codes for drainage. Mold is persistent. Even if you follow all the right steps it’s still possible for mold to grow and spread in your building. Fortunately, at SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties, we have the right experience in mold remediation to make your place of business “Like it never even happened.” Unfortunately, mold doesn’t stay put, it grows quickly. You’ll want to give us a call as soon as you notice it, so we can start the remediation process. Our technicians have the training, equipment, and knowledge necessary to help locate and remediate mold efficiently. If you find mold in your place of business, call us at 540-433-6100.

Avoid a Large Loss: Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let cold weather sneak up on you!

Before the onset of cold weather, prevent freezing of these water supply lines and pipes by following these recommendations:

• Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following the manufacturer's or installer's directions. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed. Antifreeze is environmentally harmful and is dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping.
• Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break.
• Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas. Look in the basement, crawl space, attic, garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.
• Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a "pipe sleeve" or installing UL-listed "heat tape," "heat cable," or similar materials on exposed water pipes. Newspapers can provide some degree of insulation and protection to exposed pipes – even ¼” of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that usually do not have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties Commercial Water Restoration

Have Questions? Call Today (540) 433-6100

3 Reasons Your Commercial Toilet Keeps Flushing

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Avoid Commercial Water Damage

Water Damage From Toilet

A malfunctioning toilet in your Rockingham or Augusta County commercial building can cause a variety of issues, from a repeated toilet overflow to increased monthly water bills. One common issue that commercial toilets suffer from is repeated flushing when water runs into the unit without stopping. There might be several reasons for this problem and knowing what they are may help you remedy the problem quickly.

1. Dirty Gasket

The gasket within a commercial toilet’s flushing apparatus can become caked with sediment over time. This can be especially common if you live in an area with hard water. Sediment may also affect the gasket’s weep hole and how well the gasket’s suction works. You can remove and clean the gasket and weep hole, which may resolve the continuous flushing.

2. Broken Flapper

Sometimes the flapper, or seal, on the inside of the toilet may become brittle or old. When this happens, the seal can become misaligned and cause the toilet to fill constantly. This constant filling may eventually cause a toilet overflow or a toilet flood, which can cause water damage to your building and require the services of a flood remediation and water cleanup company. The seal is located inside the flush canister, and if it is cracked, you may need to have it replaced.

3. Leaking Toilet Tank

A leaking toilet tank may cause repeated flushing, as the unit will sense it needs to fill due to a water loss. However, you can stop a toilet from leaking with a simple test. Add three drops of red food coloring into the water of the tank and wait about twenty minutes. If the water in the toilet bowl is red when you check it again, this means the toilet tank has a leak and you will need to have it repaired.

Water Damage or Flooding? Call Us Today (540) 433-6100

Commercial Water Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion. Learn more about our training and certifications.

FALL YARD CLEANING TIPS

10/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO during the fall

Aaaah, autumn. The kids are headed back to school, the leaves are turning, and a chill is in the air. If you're like most homeowners, fall also means an opportunity to spruce up your yard and cut down on the work you'll need to do when the weather turns warm again.

It doesn't matter if you're a seasoned landscape professional or somebody who just wants their yard to look as good as it can with as little work as possible, everyone can benefit from backyard fall cleanup.  A little bit of work in the fall will really pay off when spring rolls around.

• Rake those leaves. Once the snow flies, an unraked layer of leaves can get matted down over the turf and smother it all winter long. Raking or using a mulching mower in the fall helps avoid dead patches in the spring. But don't worry about getting every last leaf, especially in the garden. They help insulate plants, and as they decompose, they provide valuable nutrients.
• Feed the grass. Fertilizing in the fall is like a day at the spa for your lawn. Using a slow-release fertilizer allows the grass to soak up nutrients and - just as important - spend the cool days and nights of autumn recovering from the summer heat and stress. And building a healthy, rejuvenated lawn is one of the best ways to protect against heat, cold, drought, insects and other stresses.
• Weed all about it. Weeding in the fall is probably the most valuable thing you can do to prepare for spring, and it's one that many people overlook. The good news: Pulling weeds used to be a backbreaking chore, but tools like the Weed Hound have come a long way from the tiny weeding forks of "the good old days." There's no reason to get down on your hands and knees and gouge at the turf. All you do is place the tool over the weed, step lightly on the footrest and pull.
• Remove thatch build-up. A build-up of aboveground roots called thatch prevents sunlight, oxygen, and moisture from getting to the nutrient-hungry soil below. But it's easy to remove, especially if you don't wait until it overwhelms the yard. Just go at the yard with a dethatching rake in early fall, or for an easier - but more expensive - option, rent a power dethatcher.
• Aerate. Heavy use throughout the summer can cause the soil to become compacted. Perforating your lawn with small holes helps reduce compaction and lets water, air, and fertilizer get down to the soil, which strengthens the grass plant's root structure. For smaller yards, a manual aerating tool that removes plugs from the turf while you step should be just fine. If you've got a larger yard, consider renting a power aerator.
• Water trees and shrubs. Dehydration during the colder months is an all-too-common cause of tree damage, but it's easily preventable. To sustain them over the long winter, it's important to give trees a drink before putting them to bed. After they go fully dormant - but before the ground freezes - use a soaker hose or root irrigator to water them thoroughly.
• Clean out your garden. Fruits and vegetables left in the garden can rot all winter long, and provide a comfy home for insect eggs. Gross? Not as gross as they'll be in the spring. Now's the time to get rid of diseased plants, too, but keep them out of the compost pile so the problem doesn't spread to the rest of your garden next year.
• Plant spring bulbs. Fall is not all about closing up shop. It's also the perfect time to plant spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils and tulips. But pay attention to the weather in your area; planting too early can cause bulbs to sprout before winter, and planting them too late can mean their roots don't have enough time to develop before the ground freezes.
• Give your tools a tune-up. When it comes time to put away the backyard tools for the season, don't just shove them into the garage or shed. Spend a few minutes wiping them down and removing debris and dirt, then apply a light layer of oil to keep them from rusting over the winter. That way they'll be all set to go again come spring.

Old Man Winter may be on his way, but with a little work now, you can lay the groundwork for a happy, healthy backyard that's ready to thrive next season.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing 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.

Dangers of Electrical Fires

10/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO electrical tip for outlets

Like residential homes, commercial buildings are at risk of electrical fires and you should take precautions to prevent these hazards. Electrical equipment plugs and wiring can all cause a fire. Older buildings can have outdated wiring which poses additional risks. If you are in doubt, call a professional electrician.

Here are a few precautions you can make to minimize your risk of an electrical fire:

1. Outlet & power cords – Make sure outlets are updated and in good working condition. The outlet should not be warm to the touch or make cracking sounds and should fit snugly. Have a professional repair them if you experience any issues.
2. Cords & Wiring – Do not use a damaged cord. If your cords are frayed, pinched or pierced, throw them out. Damaged, worn, cracked or corroded electrical wires can increase the chance of electrical fires.

The National Fire Protection Agency suggest calling a qualified electrician if you experience:

1. Frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers.
2. Discolored or warm wall outlets
3. Flickering or dimming lights
4. Sparks from an outlet

Call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties if you do experience an electrical fire in your business at (540) 433-6100.

Restoring Your Rockingham or Augusta County Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

10/20/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage can strike anywhere at any time.

Flooding and water damage events on commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether you’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we here at SERVPRO 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 Rockingham and Augusta Counties

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties 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.

Certifications

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• IICRC Certified Firm
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• CRT - Color Repair Technician

Plan ahead for evacuation in the event of a storm for you and your pets

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Storm Damage & Evacuation in Rockingham and Augusta County

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties has these tips for people in our community dealing with disabilities during an evacuation. You may want to consider, during times of flooding, to pack a bag to have ready in case the worst happens.

Plan for backup if you have your own car. A storm or flood may damage your car.

Ask your healthcare provider to suggest what specific devices you might need if you need to evacuate due to an emergency:

• Where can I get medical supplies?
• How I do get accessible transportation?
• If medical help is needed, where would I go?
• Does this facility have a disability ramp access?

Items to bring with you:

• Written list for emergency contacts
• List of all medications, dosages, and allergies
• Style & serial number of medical devices
• Supply of medical equipment
• Extra battery for a power wheelchair
• Any cushions or padding
• Wheelchairs, canes, braces, etc.
• Medical bracelets
• Medical insurance cards
• List and/or supply of prescription medications

Our service animals are also affected by storm damage. For people who have service animals in Rockingham or Augusta County.

• Packing extra food, water, & other supplies for the service animal
• Tell emergency responders that your service animal travels with you
• Shelters and other buildings may not refuse entry to a service animal

Plan for individuals with special needs.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties?

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is locally owned and operated.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing 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.

October Is National Fire Prevention Month

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month! The goal of Fire Prevention Month (and week October 6th – 12th ) is to raise awareness about fire safety and help ensure your home and family are prepared in the event of an emergency.

Home Safety Checklist

Smoke Alarms

• There is one smoke alarm on every level of the home and inside and outside each sleeping area.
• Smoke alarms are tested and cleaned monthly.
• Smoke alarm batteries are changed as needed. 
• Smoke alarms are less than 10 years old.

Cooking Safety

• The cooking area is free from items that can catch fire.
• A kitchen stove hood is clean and vented to the outside.
• Pots are not left unattended on the stove.

Electrical & Appliance Safety

• Electrical cords do not run under rugs.
• Electrical cords are not frayed or cracked.
• Circuit-protected, multi-prong adapters are used for additional outlets.
• Large and small appliances are plugged directly into wall outlets.
• The clothes dryer lint filter and venting system are clean.

Candle Safety

• Candles are in sturdy fire-proof containers that won’t be tipped over.
• All candles are extinguished before going to bed or leaving the room.
• Children and pets are never left unattended with candles.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms

• Carbon monoxide alarms are located on each level of the home.
• Carbon monoxide alarms are less than 7 years old.

Smoking Safety

• Family members who smoke only buy fire-safe cigarettes and smoke outside.
• Matches and lighters are secured out of children’s sight.
• Ashtrays are large, deep and kept away from items that can catch fire.
• Ashtrays are emptied into a container that will not burn.

Heating Safety

• Chimney and furnace are cleaned and inspected yearly.
• Furniture and other items that can catch fire are at least 3 feet from fireplaces, wall heaters,   baseboards, and space heaters.
• Fireplace and barbecue ashes are placed outdoors in a covered metal container at least 3 feet from anything that can catch fire.
• Extension cords are never used with space heaters.
• Heaters are approved by a national testing laboratory and have tip-over shut-off function.

Home Escape Plan

• Have two ways out of each room.
• Know to crawl low to the floor when escaping to avoid toxic smoke.
• Know that once you’re out, stay out. 
• Know where to meet after the escape.
• The meeting place should be near the front of your home, so firefighters know you are out.
• Practice your fire escape plan.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties?

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is locally owned and operated.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing 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.

Fire Safety Tips for the Workplace

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Ensure that smoke alarms and sprinkler systems are installed, working properly, and are not blocked.

GENERAL PRECAUTIONS IN THE WORKPLACE

Eliminate workplace fire hazards:

• Damaged electrical outlets, cords, cables, etc.
• Overloaded outlets and circuits
• Combustible objects in unsecured locations (included excessive trash and recycling)—keep these far from electrical equipment!
• Fire exit obstacles

Keep workspace and equipment clean, dry, and well-ventilated, and especially clean of oil and dust.

Prepare for emergencies:

• Follow workspace protocol and guidelines to ensure safety and health; know and understand rules and procedures concerning fire emergencies.
• Ensure that smoke alarms and sprinkler systems are installed, working properly, and are not blocked.
• Conduct regular fire drills.

Employers should follow these workplace fire safety tips:

• Post clear fire escape plans on every level.
• Educate all employees on emergency procedures, exit locations, escape routes, fire alarms and drills, and the use of fire extinguishers.
• Conduct regular drills.
• Install and properly maintain all fire safety equipment.
• Provide for disabled employees.

HAZARDOUS ELECTRICS AND EQUIPMENT

Use only electrical products evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory (i.e. UL).

Immediately replace damaged, hazardous equipment:

• Look out for anything that appears overheated, smells strange, or delivers an electrical shock.
• Replace all damaged, worn, frayed, or old wires.

Only use three-prong plugs in three-slot outlets (and, similarly: two-slot plug into two-slot outlets).

Equipment that emanates substantial heat should be at least several feet away from combustible surfaces and objects.

• Heaters must include a thermostat control mechanism.

 Fires Cause Around $10 Billion In Damage Per Year. Direct property loss due to fires in the U.S. was an estimated $10.6 billion in 2001. (2)100 Firefighters Die Each Year. About 100 firefighters are killed each year in duty-related incidents. (6) 

• Know and follow an established emergency and evacuation plan.
• Eliminate potential fire hazards.
• Keep the workspace clean, dry, and free of unnecessary clutter and combustible materials and liquids.
• Maintain clear and easy access to all exits.
• Install and maintain all essential fire safety equipment.
• Follow a no-smoking policy within the workplace.

SMOKE ALARMS: A NECESSITY, NOT AN OPTION

Invest smoke detectors for every room or office.

• Install dual sensor smoke alarms; make sure they contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.

Test your smoke detectors(and sprinkling system) once a month.

Replace the batteries at least once a year (possible exception: non-replaceable 10-year lithium batteries; still, be sure to test them); many manufacturers also encourage a replacement of the smoke detectors after a decade.

Never disable a smoke alarm.

Consider smoke alarms for the disabled.

• Audible alarms (pauses between the siren wail allow for auditory communication) are available for the visually impaired; visual alarms (with a flashing light or vibrating pad) are available for the hearing impaired.

A NO-SMOKING ZONE IS LESS OF A DANGER ZONE

Keep the workspace a no-smoking zone. If you must smoke, smoke outdoors, and always ensure that you properly extinguish the cigarette in a sand-filled can, or drown cigarette butts and ashes in water.

• Never throw away hot cigarette butts or ashes without attending to them properly.

Be alert and then alert others. If you smell or spot fire or smoke, bring it immediately to attention.

Never smoke where oxygen is being used; for instance, in a hospital room or hallway, or at a nursing home. Even if the oxygen is turned off, the building is much more vulnerable—oxygen can be explosive and will only serve to fan the flames.

IN CASE OF FIRE: FOLLOW THE EVACUATION PLAN

Immediately call 911 in case of a fire.

Know and understand the fire emergency and evacuation plan with these workplace fire safety tips:

• Plan at multiple escape routes from as many locations as possible.
• Check the condition of fire ladders and fire escapes; ladders should be collapsible and have been evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory (i.e. UL);
  fire escapes need to be stable, secure, and easily accessible.
• Ensure that windows don’t become obstacles; glass should be openedeasily and screens should be swiftly removed.

Never use the elevator. Walk—don’t run—down the stairs.

If you cannot evacuate,

• Remain calm and put as much distance as possible between yourself and the fire.
• Seal all cracks with wet materials (towels, jackets) to prevent smoke from seeping into the room.
• Wait at the window; shout for help and signal your location by waving the most visible object
  1. Open the window for air, but try not to break it; you may need to close it if smoke begins to seep in.

Practice; can you feel your way out of the office and building with your eyes closed, or in the dark? Do you know multiple escape routes? Do you know the low windows from which you could jump? Do you instinctively use the back of your hand to feel a door’s heat, and do you remain crouched down as close to the floor as possible?

Keeping Your Family Safe During Halloween from Fire Risks

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Halloween is a fun time of year, but without precautions, it can lead to house fires. The Harrisonburg, Virginia website offers some great tips and suggestions to keep holidays safe and fun.

If you experience fire damage, call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 for 24/7 emergency service.

TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT COSTUMES:

• Purchase costumes made of flame-resistant or retardant material (Check the label). Fire-resistant does not mean fireproof
• Keep hemlines short enough to prevent tripping
• Avoid loose and baggy sleeves. Stay away from billowing or long trailing fabric.
• Use make-up instead of masks which can obstruct vision.
• Use glow in the dark reflective tape on your costume.

TIPS FOR DECORATING:

• Never use candles to light jack-o’-lanterns, use battery-powered lights.
• Instruct children to stay away from open flames.
• Be extremely careful with cornstalks and other harvest season items. Keep them away from sources of heat.
• Keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes

TIPS FOR HALLOWEEN NIGHT:

• Children should always go trick-or-treating with a responsible adult.
• If driving, be sure to watch for trick-or-treaters who are too busy to watch for you.
• Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks to carry for lighting and visibility.
• Do not allow children to carry sharp sticks or other objects that could cause injury to others.
• Keep your yard free of tripping hazards, such as garden tools, hoses, etc.
• Closely inspect all candy before allowing children to eat it. Discard any unwrapped treats from a stranger. If in doubt, throw it out.

Fall Safety Tips

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

When the weather turns cold most people spend more time inside their homes using fireplaces, furnaces, and heaters to keep warm. There's nothing quite as cozy as a fire, but it presents some safety hazards. Keep these tips in mind.

Service Your Furnace

Before the cold autumn and winter weather sets in, be sure to call your heating and cooling company to service your furnace. A specialist should inspect the furnace to make sure everything is in working order and that there are no leaks.

Use Fireplaces Safely

Keep that fire in its proper place by using a fireplace screen to keep sparks from flying out of the fireplace. Never leave a burning fire unattended, and make sure a fire in a fireplace is completely out before going to bed.

Use Caution with Space Heaters

A space heater can be an effective way to warm up a chilly room, but it's essential that you read the instructions on the unit before you use it. If your space heater requires venting, make sure you have vented it to the outdoors. Never use your stove or oven to heat your home; only use space heaters that are approved for this purpose. Always allow at least three feet of empty area around space heaters.

Reconsider Leaf Burning

The Air Defenders reports that burning leaves produces dangerous and cancer-causing chemicals and urges homeowners to avoid disposing of leaves this way. If you decide to burn leaves, wear a protective mask. Burning leaves should only be attempted far away from a house or other structures on a homeowner's property. Always check the weather forecast before starting to burn leaves. This activity should not be attempted in windy conditions.

Exercise Candle Caution

Candles are a great way to give a room that warm glow, but they can also cause fires. According to the National Candle Association, almost 10,000 home fires start with improper candle use. Never leave candles burning if you go out or go to sleep, and keep your candles away from pets and kids.

Change Smoke Alarm Batteries

Change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors when you turn back your clocks for Daylight Saving Time on November 3rd. Make sure to check the alarms with the new batteries installed. Check and replace any home fire extinguishers that have expired.

Water Damage Emergency Tips

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first. Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are prevalent concerns. You may also get hurt lifting objects, as wet materials can be very heavy. Do only activities that are safe to perform, and evacuate if necessary.

What to Do After Water Damage

• Call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas when access to the panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in the summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
  Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT to Do After Water Damage

• Don’t enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water.
• Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't turn on your television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Water Damage Repair and Restoration

When your home has water damage from flooding or leaks, you need a company that can respond immediately and has the expertise and equipment to restore your property correctly. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties uses advanced water damage inspection and extraction equipment to help find the moisture and remove it as quickly as possible. Our highly trained technicians will monitor and document the drying process so that you know your property is back to normal.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties?

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is locally owned and operated.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing 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.

Storm Preparedness May Save You Time, and Money In The Future

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

Storm preparedness is essential, but many people do not pay attention until it's too late. In 2018 there were 14 hazardous weather fatalities in Virginia, according to the National Weather Service. The property damage cost estimates due to storms were also staggering to consider. How ready are you? Do you know who to call if you have storm damage?

The key to disaster preparedness is having an emergency plan in place before disaster strikes. You may not be home or with family when disaster strikes. Plan in advance where you will meet and how you will contact each other. Visit www.ready.gov to access a Family Emergency Plan template to assist in your planning.

Storm and flood damage can be devastating. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience. If you have storm-related damage, you will want expert advice and service to avoid more significant problems later. Issues like mold from water damage can make a simple issue into a costly mistake. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties (540) 433-6100. If you have water damage remember mold can spread throughout a property in as little as 48-72 hours.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certifications, rest assured our team is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties. We will respond immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly.

We can even help you with insurance. For a stress-free claims process, SERVPRO works with your insurance to help manage the insurance process and paperwork.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties (540) 433-6100 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week—including all holidays.

Available 24 Hour a day for Water Emergencies

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is always ready to help, call 540-433-6100.

SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham 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 540-433-6100

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County has 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.

                         What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information.
• Your insurance information (if applicable).
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business.
• When did the flood or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)? 

The Customer is King!

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

When SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County responds to your restoration or cleaning needs, we make it a priority to deliver excellent customer service throughout your time with us.  The situations our customers need us to are often stressful and complicated. In many cases, our customers find out their property is in trouble while they are away.  In a situation such as this, choosing a resourceful restoration company is essential.  As a customer service representative, it is crucial to building a trusting, reliable relationship with our customers while we walk them through the restoration process. Your peace of mind is important to us.

How does the SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County establish a professional relationship with our customers?  It begins the first time we speak with you.  When you call our office, our staff will take the time to discuss the full scope of your problem and assign the most qualified technician to assess the situation.  Our technicians are professional and experienced.  When SERVPRO inspects your home or business, they will determine the appropriate solution and take into consideration any special requirements you may have.  As your job moves forward and service begins at your property, we will maintain contact with you.  Within 24 hours of initial service, we will call you to make sure any questions you have are addressed as soon as possible.  We will continue to provide updates as your job progresses and ensure your needs are met throughout your time as our customer.

The SERVPRO team has experience accommodating customers through every step of the process.  We work closely with insurance providers, provide detailed information to help you pick the best reconstruction contractors, and maintain flexibility with your schedule.  If you are looking for a trustworthy restoration partner to service your home or business, look no further than SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County!

For more information call us at 540-433-6100 today!

Be Prepared: Have an Emergency Plan for Your Vehicle

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today!! SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100

To respond quickly in any disaster, your emergency planning should address every possible scenario. This includes emergencies while you’re in your vehicle; a roadside emergency can happen at any time. Below are key points to consider as you prepare a vehicle emergency plan: 

• Keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car. This kit should contain food, water, first aid supplies, and other supplies. Below is a checklist of emergency supply items for your vehicle.
• Have an emergency plan for communicating and getting back together with your family if you are separated during a disaster.
• Keep a full tank of gas in your car if an evacuation seems likely. Gas stations may be closed during emergencies and unable to pump gas during power outages. Plan to take one car per family to reduce congestion and delay.
• If you are evacuating in your vehicle:
  • Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by severe weather or poor air quality.
  • Follow recommended evacuation routes (avoid shortcuts as they may be blocked).
  • Watch out for downed power lines and washed-out roads and bridges. Do not drive into flooded areas.

Roadside Emergency Kit Checklist

• Cellular phone and charger
• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Warning light, hazard triangle, or flares
• Tire gauge
• Jack and lug wrench
• Foam tire sealant or a portable compressor and plug kit
• Spare fuses
• Jumper cables or a portable battery booster
• Weatherproof flashlight
• Gloves, hand cleaner, and clean rags
• Auto-club card or roadside-assistance number (if you belong to an auto club or roadside-assistance program)
• $20 in small bills and change
• Pen and pad of paper
• Basic tools
• Extra clothing
• Water and nonperishable emergency food (enough for at least 3 days)

Why Choose SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties?

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is locally owned and operated, and Harrisonburg, Elkton, Bridgewater, Keezletown, Dayton, Grottoes, Broadway, Timberville, Massanutten, Mount Crawford, and other local communities.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing 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.

Why Do You Need Professional Fire Damage Restoration After A Fire?

8/10/2019 (Permalink)

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster.

Fire damage to your home can be traumatic. In addition to the destruction from heat, your property and belongings can be damaged by smoke and soot. Smoke particles can coat walls, ceilings, and almost any surface and cause permanent damage if not cleaned quickly and efficiently.

The particles in the smoke contain unburned carbon that can be difficult to remove after a fire. Furthermore, not all particles are alike, and it takes a multi-step process to eliminate them. It’s a job for professionals who have years of training and expertise in fire damage restoration. Here are some strategies that professionals use to get rid of smoke and soot damage from your property. 

Strategies are developed based on the type of residue

Here at SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County, our expert team evaluates the type of smoke residue and prepares a plan accordingly. Dry smoke residue is easier to clean than wet smoke residue. As dry smoke residue does not stain the surface as intensely as wet smoke residue, it is easier to remove by wiping. In these cases, our IICRC certified technicians use less aggressive methods to clean surfaces.

Wet smoke residues, on the other hand, are significantly harder to clean. The heat streams during a fire can drive these smoke particulates deep into cracks, crevices, and porous surfaces, further exacerbating the difficulty of cleanup. SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County technicians uses a variety of methods such as wet cleaning, foam cleaning, and abrasive cleaning to mitigate the damage caused by wet smoke residues.

Deodorizing

Smoke and soot pose another challenge during the restoration process—the odor. If proper precautions are not taken during restoration, the scent can linger long after the fire. SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County technicians uses Ultra Low Volume (ULV) foggers, heat foggers, deodorizing beads, and other methods to combat odors. Our technicians have years of experience in managing odors after fires of all sizes. We get your home smelling like home again in no time. 

Call SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at (540) 433-6100 today to talk to one of our fire restoration experts.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County?

SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County is locally owned and operated. Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. We are providing 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.

How we make it "Like it never even happened."

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

Contact us at 540-433-6100

When SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County responds to your restoration needs, we make it a priority to deliver excellent customer service. When you need a restoration company, the situations are often stressful and complicated. In many cases, our customers find out their property is in trouble while they are out of town or away on vacation. Choosing a respected company in your community is essential. Building a trusting relationship with our customers, and walking them through the restoration process is crucial to your peace of mind. We have built the foundation of our business and pride ourselves on the ability to communicate the complete process with you.

How does SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County establish these relationships with you, our customer? Beginning with our first contact. When you call our office, our staff will take the time to listen to the full scope of your problem and assign the most qualified technician to assess the situation. Our technicians are professional and experienced. When SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County inspects your home or business, they will determine the appropriate solution and take into consideration any special requirements you may have. As your job moves forward and service begins at your property, we will maintain contact with you. Within 24 hours of the initial service, we will call to make sure any questions you have are addressed as soon as possible. We will continue to provide updates as the job progresses and ensure your needs are met throughout the restoration process.

Our team has experience working with customers through every step of the process. We will work closely with insurance providers, provide detailed information to help you from the initial loss through the complete reconstruction of your home. If you are looking for a trustworthy restoration partner to service your home or business SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County will make it, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

Plan for the worst...with the best!

“Ready for Whatever Happens”

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan for it NOW.

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are “Ready for whatever happens,” speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

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

 The SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Profile® Advantage

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.

  -This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.

• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.

  -It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But will save a lot of time if ever needed.

• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.

  -This can help minimize the amount of time your business active by having an immediate plan of action.

• Establish the professionals at SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider!

  -You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by.

• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.

  -This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.

• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

  -Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”

  Call our office today to schedule your FREE 15-minute appointment!                                                                            SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County (540) 433-6100

Green means clean here at SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

Like it never even happened

As a SERVPRO® Franchise, we have access to SERVPRO Industries, Inc. resources and technology. Part of this includes a large range of cleaning products SERVPRO has developed. Over the years SERVPRO Industries has strived to develop green chemicals that are safe for your home and family as well as the environment. We have been members of the EPA’s Design for Environment (EPA/DFE) initiative for a long time. This allows us access to resources that help in formulating environmentally friendly cleaning products, known as “Green” chemistry. Our most notable green cleaning products are highlighted below. 
 
Carpet & Upholstery Green Clean #251: This product is designed for cleaning both carpet and upholstery. It is truly a “one product does all” in that it can be used as a spotter, pre-spray and in-line cleaner for use with a variety of equipment. 
 
All Surface Green Clean #250: This is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional surface cleaners. The product is designed as one product cleans all for surfaces that can be wiped or mopped. It can safely be used on walls, ceilings, countertops, floors, etc. The exclusive formulation contains both ionic and non-ionic surfactants that are naturally derived and provide excellent multi-functional cleaning.
 
Window Green Clean #249: This cleaner is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional glass cleaners. The product is formulated with soft water to eliminate spotting and streaking.
 
All three products listed are pH neutral and contain no dyes or fragrances. All components are safe, non-toxic, phosphate-free, Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) compliant and biodegradable. Your home is our highest priority, which is why we strive to use green products, like these, when possible.
 
Despite our goal to use green products, many of our products cannot be classified as such. Our goal is to still use the safest products we can. Two areas the EPA/DFE does not address that are common in our restoration tasks are disinfectants and deodorizers. 
 
Disinfectants are “kill” agents and are not considered green per the EPA/DFE. The EPA does classify disinfectants by the overall toxicity. The lowest toxicity disinfectants get a rating of category 3. We use a product called Sporicidin® as a low toxicity disinfectant and it carries the EPA’s lowest toxicity rating of category 3. 
 
Deodorizers can be a problem because the fragrances used in these products can cause reactions with certain individuals. The EPA/DFE does not currently have green fragrances listed. We use air scrubbers with activated charcoal to serve as a green method of deodorization. This method scrubs the odor particles from the air and traps them in the activated charcoal filter.
 
If you have any cleaning needs for your home or business, call SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County. We don't just specialize in fire and water restoration and cleanup; we also specialize in the cleaning and deodorization of carpets, upholstery, draperies, hard floors, walls, ceilings, air ducts, and more. Give us a call at 540-433-6100 and we'll make it "Like it never even happened."

The SERVPRO Industry Specialized Sponge!

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

Clean Specialized SERVPRO Sponge (left) vs Soot Dirty Specialized SERVPRO Sponge (right).

A large fire caused soot to build up on the ceiling of a Harrisonburg home. The complete home including structural walls and ceilings were affected by the fire and smoke. Our crew at SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County was ready for this large job. Cleaning and restoration of this home included the utilization of the SERVPRO Industry Specialized Sponge. 

For starters, fire damage restoration involves removing soot residues from various surfaces and materials. Not all soot is the same. Some soot is easy to clean, while other soot can be extremely difficult to remove. 

Fires from smoke when the components are not in balance and so incomplete combustion produces smoke and soot residues. This soot residue is easily removed with the SERVPRO Industry Specialized Sponge. This Specialized Sponge will leave your ceiling looking new again, "Like it never even happened.

Call SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at (540) 433-6100.

Mold Can Spread Through A Home In As Little As 48 hours

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moist Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If you see any signs of mold call SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County today at 540-433-6100.

NOT EVERYTHING IS SAFE TO BURN IN YOUR FIREPLACE OR WOOD STOVE

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Please remember not everything is safe to burn in your fireplace or wood stove. Sometimes items that you think would be safe to burn are not. Some items can cause serious health issues or safety issues if burned. For example, burning glossy paper such as wrapping paper or newspaper ads could possibly put toxins or carcinogens in the air that you breathe. Some items burn faster than others creating a high, intensely hot flame that could catch any built-up creosote in a chimney on fire. Below is a list of a few items you should never put in your fireplace or wood stove.

~Paper, Bows, Glossy Paper, Cardboard & Packaging

~Plastics, Pine Needles, Live Garland, Live Wreaths or Flowers

~Styrofoam Containers, Egg Cartons, Dryer Lint

~Painted, Varnished, Stained or Treated Wood

~Engineered Wood (Plywood, Particle Board, Pressed Board, OSB) Glue compounds are used in the layering of these woods.

~Green Wood – Wood that is not dry will produce a lot of smoke and creosote.

~Driftwood – Driftwood contains salt which is corrosive. When heated, corrosion is accelerated and toxic fumes are produced.

These are just some of the items you should never burn. Please follow all safety directions on your wood burning appliance.

Always have a fire extinguisher and a carbon monoxide detector nearby and change the batteries on a schedule.

Preparing your home and business for Winter Weather

11/27/2018 (Permalink)

Be prepared this winter

Winter weather is right around the corner so here are a few of our tips on how to keep your home and business disaster free.

• Keep cabinets in your kitchen and bathroom open to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.

• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.

• Consider installing specific products to insulate water pipes, such as “pipe sleeves” or just use a dark colored sock for outside spigots.

• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to “off”. Then make sure the outdoor faucet is open to help it drain completely while the inner valve is shut off.

• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Allowing debris to accumulate could cause damming effects on gutters, leading to roof and water damage.

• If you are traveling, leave your furnace set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

•Inspect property and pay specific attention to downed tree limbs and branches. Walkways and parking lots should be inspected for proper drainage. potential slippery or hazardous areas corrected with mats or non-slip surfaces.

•Preform or have a professional perform proper maintenance on your furnace.

•Contact SERVPRO about having an Emergency Ready Plan done for your business to ensure you are ready for any type of disaster.

•Contact SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at 540-433-6100 for help when winter weather strikes.

What You Can Do To Help Prevent Water Damage This Season

11/27/2018 (Permalink)

Bathtubs can easily overflow, especially if left unattended with the water running.

We should always be conscious of the water we use and how it can actually end up causing damage. If we’re not careful we can be responsible for flooding or additional water damage in our homes. It is good to know things you can do to try and prevent water damage and what to look out for.

Lookout for Water Pipes

It’s getting close to that time of year where pipes can easily freeze. Make sure you don’t have any cracks in your piping or any slow drips. Cracks in your pipes often can result in not only leaks but when pipes freeze can increase the chance of your pipes bursting.

Long Showers

Many of us love long hot showers on these cold brisk weather days. Especially in the mornings to help warm us up. However, excess use of water can lead to flooding and pooling, which if you’re not careful, can cause water damage. The stagnant water and excessive moisture in your shower is something you should closely monitor so that it does not lead to mold growth and damage. Making certain also that your shower curtain is closed completely and that no water is spraying out is also important as if you spray too much water out of the shower and onto your floor it will seep through below your flooring. If you have shower doors instead of a curtain, make certain that they too close properly and that they are not leaking water out during your shower. If a hot bath is your preference, then watch how high you fill it up! You do not want to walk away and allow for your tub to overflow. You also do not want to fill it so high that when you get into the tub and sink down you cause water to overflow onto the floor.

Your Drains

It is good to make sure that your drains are working properly. Be it in your bathtub, shower, kitchen or bathroom sink, if a drain is not draining properly it can lead to water pooling and sometimes flowing over out of the sink, tub, etc. You should clean out your drains often as hair, debris, food pieces etc can easily clog them.

Toilets

Be careful to not clog your toilets. While sometimes it is unavoidable, always make sure to have a plunger available in case it should be needed. If you know something has clogged your toilet, be it paper or something a child placed it in and flushed, than do not keep flushing it. Until you are sure the clog has been dealt with properly, flushing can cause your toilet to overflow. Should that happen, do your best to clean up any water immediately.

Plants and Christmas Trees

It’s almost Christmas! Lots of us just love freshly cut Christmas Trees. However, those trees, of course, require us to water them or to keep them in water. Make sure you’re keeping your houseplants, any flowers watered and/or fed with what they need in order to keep them growing. Make sure to keep that Christmas Tree from drying out as it can otherwise go from a potential water problem to a fire hazard. However, be sure to monitor how much water isn’t being absorbed by the soil, plants, or the Christmas Tree. Excess water can and often will seep through crevices and cause damage to your home’s foundation, create sinkholes and more.

Should you encounter any sort of water damage at your home than SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County, is here for you! We are open 24/7 and can be reached at 540-433-6100. To receive assistance with water, fire or storm damage, give us a call.

Clogged Gutters - A Leading Cause of Water Damage!

11/27/2018 (Permalink)

Gutters play a key role in preventing water damage to your home. That is why it is essential that you keep your gutters clean and free of debris. Their purpose is to channel rainwater to the downspouts and away from the home, protecting roofs, walls, and foundations of homes. To keep gutters working properly, it is important to make sure that gutters are cleaned regularly so that water can flow freely to the downspouts and away from your home.

So how often should you clean your gutters? It is recommended that you clean your gutters AT LEAST twice a year!

Clogged gutters can cause many issues for a homeowner. If water finds its way into the walls and ceilings of the home, it will cause interior damage. In winter months, pooling water around the foundation of the home can cause foundation cracks if it freezes and expands. The paint and siding of a home can also be damaged as water overflows from the gutters.

Failing to clean gutters regularly can be a very costly mistake! It is one of the most important tasks of a homeowner and, if done on a regular basis, can prevent many homeowner headaches!

If water damage impacts your home or commercial facility, please call our crew at SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at (540) 433-6100. We proudly offer 24-hour emergency service, and we are equipped to deal with any size disaster.

Cooler Weather Means an Increase in House Fires

11/27/2018 (Permalink)

Fall and Winter often bring an increase in the number of people who have lost their homes, and sometimes their lives, due to house fires. Here are a few reasons why house fires typically happen more during the colder months:

More Time Spent Indoors

Colder weather means that most people find themselves wanting to make like a bear and hibernate. People are much more inclined to spend a lot more time at home curled up under a blanket with a cup of tea, or hot cocoa than they are outside socializing. Homeowners that are normally outside during the warmer months find themselves, their kids, and their pets spending days on end staying completely indoors. All of this time indoors means that the family is using more electricity and heat sources than usual which greatly increase the chances for a house fire.

Additional Heating Methods

Most people use multiple heating sources during the winter on top of their normal furnace usage. Space heaters and fireplaces are all used to help create extra warmth or beautiful ambiance during the cold seasons. Knowing how to properly use a space heater can potentially avoid it from causing a fire. It is best to make sure you are not placing it near anything that could catch on fire, to not leave it too close to any fabrics or your bed and not to leave it unattended. When purchasing a space heater trying to look for and purchase one with safety features that’ll turn off by itself if knocked over or if it becomes too hot. It is especially important in keeping your home safe this winter. Fireplaces should always be watched and attended to and not left alone to burn.  It is common for sparks and burning wood to fly out from the flames, even around some fireplace screens. These can easily catch carpet and nearby flammables on fire.

Cooking

Most fires that happen inside homes during the winter are ignited from cooking. The colder weather forces most of us to cook indoors instead of using the outdoor grill. All of the extra meals, especially large holiday ones, increase the chances of a house fire. Making sure someone is always present and paying attention while a meal is cooking is key to keeping your home safe. 

If your home does experience a fire, the professionals at SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County are here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 540-433-6100.

Why you should never use bleach to clean mold

11/27/2018 (Permalink)

Chlorine Bleach is often regarded as the answer to stopping mold growth and removing the mold. However, this is a myth. Bleach does not exonerate mold. Here are three reasons why bleach is not the answer to mold, and should never be used to clean a mold-contaminated area.

1. Bleach Loses Effectiveness Over Time

Chlorine bleach can dissipate rapidly, causing the bleach to be less effective. Over time this occurs because chlorine can evaporate and even faster in areas that are above room temperature. When the chlorine disappears, the bleach bottle turns into a bottle of salt water.  

2. Bleach can actually contribute to mold growth

Chlorine bleach was made to clean surfaces, therefore can only kill surface bacteria and mold. This is due to bleach’s ion structure, which prevents the chlorine from penetrating porous material such as wood and drywall. When mold grows in porous areas, the enzyme’s roots grow deep within the material, rendering the bleach ineffective of exterminating the mold. The bleach can only remove the green stain from the mold, allowing the surface to appear clean. But underneath the surface, the water component of the bleach penetrates and helps the internal roots to continue to grow, causing mold to reappear.

3. Bleach is Toxic

Bleach emits harmful fumes that pollute the air we breathe and can become harmful to humans and even pets. Over a period of time, inhaling the gases bleach emits can deteriorate the lungs and esophagus lining in addition to the scarring of the respiratory tract, which occurs in earlier stages. Also, research shows that household bleach is one of the leading causes of accidental poisonings in the United States.

Two reasons you can get mold in your home is… heat and humidity. Mold thrives in dark, moist areas, and humidity only helps that process. That’s why if you experience water damage and don’t take care of it the right way and in the first 48 hours; mold will begin to grow.

Restoring Your Harrisonburg/Rockingham County Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

10/2/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Harrisonburg/Rockingham 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 Harrisonburg/Rockingham County

SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham 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.

Containment During a Mold Remediation: How Important is It?

9/27/2018 (Permalink)

Where is the most strategic location of this containment? It should be placed as close to the source of invasion as possible.

This information was taken fromRestoration and Remediation, an online magazine. It is beneficial to share information with you regarding mold and why we use containment in the remediation process.

"The great mold warriors we meet and work with on a daily basis all have a common advantage- like the greatest generals in history, they know their enemy. More specifically these mold warriors know and understand that the greatest strength of their enemy is its invisibility.

Begin your battle by heeding the current Nobel Laureate for literature:  "The answer my friend, is blowing in the wind, the answer is blowing in the wind." [Of course that was an anti-war song…but let's not get too hung up in details…]

Since we know our enemy, we know it's greatest weakness - it cannot move on its own accord.  It is entirely dependent on air currents to power its invasion. Manage the skies, and you will win the war.

Erecting containment and generating and directing the air flow within that containment will enable us to win the air war, by controlling the enemy's movement. 

Where is the most strategic location of this containment?  It should be placed as close to the source of invasion as possible while still permitting us to gain access and accomplish our work.

One of the most common flaws in mold remediation projects is a containment structure that is larger than it needs to be:  Larger containments require more equipment for managing airflow, have more possible leak points, and require more time and effort to decontaminate prior to de-mobilisation. While erecting a containment, one must carefully balance the trade-offs between size and work access. 

To do so, one can rely on the knowledge of experienced mold warriors and follow the established principles." 

SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County can be your warrior when it comes to mold. To learn more, please visit our website or call us at (540) 433-6100. We will help guide you through this process.

Your Business Matters To Us

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO also helps Commercial Businesses

Did you know SERVPRO also helps Commercial Businesses?

We’re always ready to help - you can trust the SERVPRO brand....

Indoor quality is something that needs to be maintained in a business, and we’re here for your needs! 

Proper Maintenance Saves You Money!!

• World Health Organizations say that poor indoor air quality costs $60 billion in employee sick leave and lost production
• People most at risk include infants and children, pregnant women, elderly, people with compromised respiratory system, and people with weakened immune systems

Control Moisture and Reduce Mold

Act within the first 24-48 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 visible moldy insulation materials

Ways to Impress Your Customers

• Clean dirty and stained ceilings
• Scrub lobby, furniture and draperies
• Establish maintenance plans for furnishings, carpets, and draperies
• Clean HVAC and air duct system

The SERVPRO Difference

• Reduce potential for mold growth
• Remediate bacteria, fungi, and mold
• Eliminate offensive odors
• Written inspections and estimates

You Can Trust SERVPRO Brand Because....

• Over 1,600 Franchises in 48 states means more locations
• More locations means faster responses
• Faster responses means faster mitigation and less damage
• Faster mitigation means less cost

We give quotes to any situation that may occur to you, we are also open 24/7...365 days a year. 

No Job Too Big

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Get the professionals by calling SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at (540) 433-6100 for all your commercial cleanup, mitigation and restoration needs. SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County is one of Virginia's premier smoke, fire and water cleanup companies.

Clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include the following:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Property Managers
• Universities
• Municipalities

Rapid response can mean the difference between restore vs. replace

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Rapid response can mean the difference between restore vs. replace

The first few hours after commercial water damage can be the most vital.  Rapid response will many times be the determining factoring between restoring and replacing.  The photo captioned is what the employees of this office building saw when they came into work one morning.  A quick call to SERVPRO and a crew was on their way.  Clean up began with extraction of carpets.  Other crew members moved and blocked contents.  Even more crew members removed the vinyl cove base and drill holes in the lower drywall to allow airflow to more efficiently dry the walls.  Holes are always punched below the trim line to allow for the new trim to cover the holes.  A manager set up drying equipment as he walked through to ensure nothing was overlooked and properly document the job for the insurance company.  The SERVPRO team came in like a wave, just as the water did a few hours before.

Job timeline

• The water damage was discovered on a Friday morning at 6:00AM.
• The crew arrived at 7:45AM.
• The work was completed by Friday evening at 6:30PM.
• Crew returned Saturday and Sunday to take moisture readings and reposition drying equipment for optimal drying.
• Crew arrived 6:00AM Monday to install new cove base and remove equipment.
• By Monday 9:00AM, the property was put back together and it was business as usual for this company.   Employees that had off that Friday never even knew anything had happened!

If you have water damage in your commercial property, remember that a quick response from SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County can make the difference from an inconvenient weekend to weeks of construction and loss of use.  Call us today to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

The Makeup of Smoke

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

There are several components that make up smoke. Learning about these components can lead to a better understanding of just how badly smoke damage can be after a fire. Each part contributes a part to the odor a fire leaves. Particles are the partially or completely burned substances that can penetrate fabrics and surfaces. These can be toxic at times. Vapors are fog-like, misty droplets that can become dangerous if one inhales or absorbs them. The third component is toxic gases. Although these are odorless, carbon monoxide is the most common gas that will result from a fire and is dangerous. Phosgene gas results from household products like plastics, vinyl, and other chemicals are burned. Hydrogen cyanide is a product of the burning and combustion of insulation, clothing, carpet, synthetics and plastics. Due to the complex makeup of smoke and all the different ways it can be produced, it is hard to get the smoky odor out of many household items unless cleaned by a professional service.  

Content provided by: https://www.resolvebylowes.com/guidance/fire/how-smoke-damages-a-home/115000893728

Protecting Your Commercial Property

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

PROTECT YOUR COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS FROM WATER DAMAGE:

Turn off Water Valves to Prevent Damage in Commercial Buildings

When water damage occurs in a multi-story building such as office buildings or hotels, turning off the water supply at the main valve is vital to avoid additional damage. Identify where the broken pipe is located to determine if a water valve is near the source rather than on a lower floor or utility closet. Turning off water valves as quickly as possible prevents primary damage to surfaces in addition to secondary damage from mold and mildew. Business owners can prevent slow leaks in buildings by tracking water bills each month and maintaining safety protocols in boiler and water heater rooms.

Avoid Business Interruption to Prevent Financial Losses

Preventing extensive property damage also helps to avoid business interruption loss along with the possibility of creating liability claims from nearby property owners, tenants or guests. Maintenance personnel in businesses are responsible for turning off the main water valve during normal hours of operation before beginning remediation services. However, when leaks happen at unusual times such as during the night or on weekends, tenants, employees and managers do not know what to do.

Important Emergency Water Damage Guidelines

Having a SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP) in place at businesses can help to reduce losses. 

Visually Inspect the Property:

At least once a month, assess various areas of a building to look for signs of moisture from leaking pipes and fixtures. Check water distribution systems, including bathroom fixtures, kitchen plumbing and drinking fountains, especially devices that are old and degraded. Keep a record of plumbing fixtures that are prone to having frequent failures such as galvanized or steel pipes and connectors. Inspect decorative water fountains, swimming pools and hot tubs at the same time. Understand the particular areas of a property that do not have drainage systems such as parking garages. In a water leak emergency, lower levels of a building without drains require portable or fixed sump pumps.

Step Two: Mitigation Plans

By having a SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County Emergency Readiness Plan can help establish SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County as your mitigation company of choice. We will have the information we need to begin a timely dry-out to reduce any secondary damage that may occur. It also allows for the creation and implementation of a loss mitigation plan for employees to follow when a disaster occurs.
The ERP will include a map or diagram showing the location of water shutoff valves and exactly how to close the devices. Pictures of the shut-off values will also be included. If a building has a sprinkler system for fires, then it is often necessary to turn off these devices to avoid damage from water or chemicals. For confidential or sensitive areas of a building, make a list of the designated employees who can enter the space.

Step Three: Emergency Contact List

A SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County Emergency Readiness Plan will contain an up-to-date 24-hour emergency contact list with names and telephone numbers for:

• The business maintenance staff
• Plumbers
• Electricians
• Tenants
• Local water company after-hours number
• Water mitigation service vendors such as SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County
• Building agent or broker

A business interruption plan should be standard procedure for any commercial building. The SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County ERP works well with any existing plan and the app allows the managers to have all this information in the palm of their hands.

Call SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at (540) 433-6100 for your no cost Emergency Readiness Plan.

http://bit.ly/Mf71ty

10 Important Fire Damage Facts

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

While flames can cause the most visible damage to your property during a fire, smoke and soot are silent and sometimes invisible hazards that could cost lives.  Water is also a reason for damage after a fire. Even firefighters themselves may cause some damage before they can completely put out a fire. Here are 10 important things to know about fires.

1. In a fire, more people die from inhaling smoke than from the flames. Never think that if you avoid the flames you are safe. Always keep away from smoke.
2. Soot is a coating of fine, black dust created when wood, coal, or oil-based substances are burned.  These carbon particles float into the air and settle anywhere.  Inhaling soot can cause severe lung deficiencies or even death. 
3. If soot contaminates items in your home or business, a fire restoration service provider like SERVPRO must assess the damage to see if restoration is possible.

Need Fire Restoration Advice or Services? Call SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at 540-433-6100

4. The worst possible effect of soot is its tendency to cause cancer and cause serious defects in newborns. Soot produces polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. These hydrocarbons are responsible for gene mutation for particular groups of genes. They can cause birth defects and increase the chances of getting cancer.

Water’s Good and Bad
5. Water’s great at putting out most fires but the water itself can cause great damage. You must make sure, after the fire is out, that your home or business is completely dried.

6. Mold colonies can begin to grow just 48 hours after water damage occurs.  The combination of fire, water, and mold damage to your commercial property or home could result in a complete loss if not handled properly. See our posts about mold, mold myths, and how to clean up mold.
7. Use caution if you decide to do some of the cleanup after a fire. Never start your cleaning process until you’re properly attired. Wear heavy-duty gloves, safety goggles, and a facemask. Carefully cover your nose and make sure your safety glasses have no place for dust or soot to get into your eyes.

Why Firefighters Break Windows and Cut Holes In Roofs
8. Firefighters are true heroes. However, they often must break windows and cut holes in the roof of buildings on fire. As a fire burns, the fire moves up and down and across, growing very fast. Firefighters break windows and cut holes in roofs to provide ventilation that slows the fire’s growth. Ventilation also helps get rid of dark smoke that makes it hard for firefighters to see where they’re going. The holes and broken windows help firefighters fight the fire more quickly. The bottom line is that breaking windows and cutting holes in roofs help save lives and property. 

9. Firefighters will also cut holes in walls at times. That’s not about ventilation. It’s done so the fire department is sure that the fire is completely out. Fire departments don’t want to risk leaving a fire that’s not visible but is still active inside the walls or in other hidden places.

10. If you have a fire, get a copy of the fire report. In most areas, a fire report is a public document. Ask for it at the fire department or fire marshal’s office. The fire report will help you with information that your insurance company and other official offices may request.

Here to Help 
The team at SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County has specialized training and experience in fire restoration services and natural disaster cleanup.

Call SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County 540-433-6100 anytime, 24/7.

Stop, Drop, Roll and Extinguish - The A,B,C's of Fire Extinguishers

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers are a common sight in most houses across the United States as many states have implemented laws requiring each household to have one. What most people don’t know is that there are actually four different classes of fire extinguishers that work to put out different types of fires. It is important to be informed of these different classes in order to purchase the best extinguisher for your own house or apartment.

The classes of extinguishers are labeled as Class A, B, C, and D - each best for putting out a different type of fire.

• Class A extinguishers: best at putting out fires in ordinary combustible materials, such as wood and paper

• Class B extinguishers: best for use on flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil and grease

• Class C extinguishers: best for use only on electrically energized fires

• Class D extinguishers: best for use on flammable metals

Although there are four different classes, most fire extinguishers are sold as a combination of the classes to cover a broader range of fires. Some will be sold as A-B, or even A-B-C. Next time you are at the store shopping for you new extinguisher make sure you keep this information in mind to help you prepare best for any type of fire you may be faced with.

Content provided by: https://www.nationwide.com/fire-extinguisher-safety.jsp

What’s the Difference - Flood Warning vs. Flood Watch

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

When there are heavy rains in our area, we might hear the words “flood warning” or “flood watch.” For many of us, either phrase tells us that we need to be alert to flooding. But did you know that there’s a significant difference between a “warning” and a “watch?”

Flood Watch

A flood watch is an alert that indicates the conditions are right for flooding to happen. However, it does not mean that flooding will necessarily occur. When you see this alert, you should prepare for flooding since it is a strong possibility. Monitor the local news or other reliable sources for updates.

Flood Warning

A flood warning is announced when flooding is either impending or already occurring. When you get this alert, you should take immediate action and monitor official channels to get updates on the condition. If you’re unsure what to do during a flood, check out the resources at Ready.gov!

Monitor News or Radio Stations

Because weather can be unpredictable, always keep an eye on your local news or radio stations. Many of them will also have apps or websites that offer real-time updates. As long as you are familiar with the phrases they use, you’ll be able to act accordingly when they issue alerts. In fact, they just might save your life.

Prevention Tips for Basement Flooding

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

As hurricane season starts many of us will be vulnerable to basement flooding.  Basement flooding can be a major disturbance to a family.  Loss of use of a part of your home, damage to flooring and walls, damage to personal property, potential of mold growth, and just overall an experience we would avoid if we could. 

To begin trying to prevent basement flooding first we must understand why basements flood.  Think about when your home was being built.  A large hole is dug and the masonry foundation is built inside that hole.  The area outside of that foundation wall becomes a trench.  This trench is later back filled with dirt.  However this dirt is different in composition from what was removed.  The trench soil is loose, not as compacted, and drains more rapidly.  So when water fills this trench in a heavy rainstorm it has only 3 possible directions to go, away from home through hard clay soil, down below the trench through hard clay soil, or into your home though porous masonry walls.  The most important step to preventing water damages from rain/flooding is to keep water away from this trench.  There are other causes for basements to flood like hydrostatic pressure and sump pump failures but this is the most common cause from our experience. 

Below are some tips from the pros that may help you avoid a water damage:

• ·         Check your gutters and clean them if needed.  Clogged gutters cause overflows that lead to water pooling outside the foundation walls.  If enough water pools by your foundation, some will most likely enter your basement.
• ·         Check on your gutter downspouts.  If your gutters are clean and operating properly but the water is being discharged too close to your foundation some water will most likely enter your basement.  Local home stores sell inexpensive downspout extenders.  Use downspout extenders to make sure the water is being discharged away from your foundation and not pooling.
• ·         Check on your sump pump and pit.  Many of us don’t know that our sump pumps aren’t working until it’s too late.   Get a 5-gallon bucket of water and fill the pit till the pump kicks on.  Make sure it’s working and just like the downspouts, discharging away from your foundation.  Also any dirt and debris in the sump pump pit can get sucked into the pump and create a block or shorten the life span and power of your pump.  Detach the pump (if possible) and vacuum the pit out with a shop vac to remove any dirt/stones/debris.

Sometimes no matter what we do and what steps we take to prevent it, water will find its way into your home.  If that’s the case, we are here to help make it like it never happened.  

How To Know If The Flood Damage In Your Home Is Serious

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Categories Of Water Intrusion

At SERVPRO, we like to remind our customers that no restoration job is impossible. While severe flooding can lead to complete destruction of some items, there are always others that are salvageable. In fact, as long as repairs get started within two days of the original incident, the chance of full remediation is high.

Nevertheless, the scope and intensity of the repairs depend on how much water is inside the house and which materials are already wet. When handling flood damage in Harrisonburg/Rockingham County, our technicians carry out an inspection first to determine the level of water intrusion. The assessment adheres to official guidelines from the IICRC. Keep reading to learn more about the categories of water intrusion and what they mean for residents.

Class One 
Class one involves minimal water intrusion, which means that this is the least serious type of water damage. Most items affected are non-porous (concrete floors, appliances, etc.) In this case, only limited repairs are necessary. Pumping is enough to extract most of the liquid, after which a small dehumidifier can be used to complete the job. Typical Scenario: a toilet overflows onto a sealed tile floor.

Class Two 
There is a significant volume of water. Several porous items are affected (curtains, carpets, etc.) The extraction takes longer, in this case, because more water is absorbed. Dehumidifiers are used (for longer periods) to draw water vapor out of soft materials. Typical Scenario: a burst water pipe inside a gypsum board wall.

Class Three 
Substantial amounts of standing water remain after the incident. Many porous items have absorbed flood liquids. The most intensive rates of evaporation are required to extract it in a timely fashion. The SERVPRO technicians probably need to lift carpets and (in some cases) make holes in the walls to increase ventilation. Typical Scenario: natural flooding causes rapid water intrusion, which quickly soaks the ground floor.

Class Four 
The most severe type of flood damage involves water that gets trapped between building materials. It is tough to handle, takes a long time to restore, and it does cause lengthy disruptions to regular routines. The drying process is complex and requires the use of considerable vapor pressure differentials. Typical Scenario: a severe sewage overflow or backup that soaks through the walls.

At SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County, we approach every emergency with a unique strategy. Our repair methods are tailored to fit the needs of your home and guarantee a fast, effective restoration. Call us 24/7 at (540) 433-6100 today.

All Molds Are The Same, Right?

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

If you find mold in your house, you may not know exactly what type it is. There are various different types of mold that are commonly found in houses. Some molds are worse than others and are more toxic than others so knowing the difference is critical.

• Acremonium: Toxigenic mold that evolves in appearance, from a small moist mold in to a fine powdery mold. It normally grows in humidifiers, drain pans, window sealants and cooling coils. 

• Alternaria: The most common form of allergenic mold in the whole world. It resembles the texture of velvet and has brown or deep green hairs. This mold tends to grow where there is dampness so typically in bathrooms and below leaking sinks. This is the type of mold most people see in their house after dealing with water damage. 

• Aspergillus: It can vary in color and is a very common household mold. The long flask-shaped pores can form thick layers of mold. It is an allergenic mold but can become more toxic depending on the environment and species of the mold. 

• Stachybotrys: Commonly known as “black mold”. This mold thrives in wet, dark areas that have high humidity levels. It is dark greenish or black in color with a slimy texture. 

These are just a few types of the more common mold types one could find in the house. If you find mold in your home the best thing is to call a professional service, such as SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County, in order to have it taken care of quickly and safely.

Content by: https://aerindustries.com/blog/2017/03/28/common-types-mold-in-home/

When Storms or Floods hit Harrisonburg/Rockingham County, SERVPRO is ready!

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Harrisonburg/Rockingham County.

SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Harrisonburg/Rockingham County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Team, Harrisonburg/Rockingham County that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today!! SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at 540-433-6100

When Wind & Rainstorms Flood Your Home

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

When Wind & Rainstorms Flood Your Home

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs to an already anxiety provoking situation. SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County delivers the help you need.  We are able to call upon a network of over 1,650 franchises nationwide to respond. 
  
Storm damage can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues you face.

Call SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County.  We are Here to Help!

Safety Tip - Controlling Mold

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO To Help With Mold Issues

You Can Control Mold

Inside your home you can control mold growth by:

• Controlling humidity levels;
• Promptly fixing leaky roofs, windows, and pipes;
• Thoroughly cleaning and drying after flooding;
• Ventilating shower, laundry, and cooking areas.

If mold is growing in your home, you need to clean up the mold and fix the moisture problem. Mold growth can be removed from hard surfaces with commercial products, soap and water, or a bleach solution of no more than 1 cup of household laundry bleach in 1 gallon of water.

Mold growth, which often looks like spots, can be many different colors, and can smell musty. If you can see or smell mold, a health risk may be present. You do not need to know the type of mold growing in your home, and CDC does not recommend or perform routine sampling for molds. No matter what type of mold is present, you should remove it. Since the effect of mold on people can vary greatly, either because of the amount or type of mold, you can not rely on sampling and culturing to know your health risk. Also, good sampling for mold can be expensive, and standards for judging what is and what is not an acceptable quantity of mold have not been set. The best practice is to remove the mold and work to prevent future growth.

If you choose to use bleach to clean up mold:

• Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners. Mixing bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products will produce dangerous, toxic fumes.
• Open windows and doors to provide fresh air.
• Wear non-porous gloves and protective eye wear.
• If the area to be cleaned is more than 10 square feet, consult the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guide titled Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings. Although focused on schools and commercial buildings, this document also applies to other building types. 
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using bleach or any other cleaning product.

www.cdc.gov

8 Tips for Avoiding Plumbing Emergencies

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

8 Tips for Avoiding Plumbing Emergencies

https://www.waterdamagedefense.com/blogs/home-maintenance-blog/plumbing-maintenance

Plumbing maintenance may not be the most exciting topic, but it is well worth your attention! By regularly examining your plumbing system, and performing preventative maintenance, you can save yourself from both costly repair bills and the slow, steady expense caused by drips and leaks. Here is a maintenance checklist to help you stay ahead of common plumbing problems.

1. Water heater: Many plumbers recommend draining and cleaning your water heater annually. Most people hire a professional to handle these tasks, due to their technical nature, and often they are even included in your plumbing fixture’s service contract.
2. Valves: Locate all your shut-off valves and turn them off, then back to their original position, to make sure they would not be stuck open in the event that you need to shut the water off. While you are at it, look them over for any sign of corrosion, which could lead to an undetected leak. Replace any valves that are not working properly. Finally, make sure that your entire family knows where your shutoff valves are located, especially the main one, since this is very valuable information in case a leak occurs.
3. Leaks: Leaks can develop in many different places in your plumbing system and should be addressed immediately to curtail waste and water damage. Periodically check for any of the following signs of trouble: soft flooring near toilets, bathtubs, dishwashers, water heaters or washing machines; dampness inside sink cabinets; soft walls or loose tiles that could signal a leak inside a wall; pipes with rust or mineral deposits; constant dampness around faucets or toilets; and finally toilets that keep running after being flushed. Use water shut off valve or water leak detection systems to alert you when water leaks occur.
4. Old or malfunctioning fixtures: Generally, toilets, dishwashers, washing machines, water heaters, and boilers that are more than 12 years old are good candidates for replacement. New appliances will be more energy and water efficient. Check the item’s serial number, since this often indicates the year it was manufactured. Companies use a variety of coding methods, so perform a quick internet search to find out what to look for. Additionally, replace old faucets with new, washer-less models to save on maintenance costs, and replace any hardened or cracked hoses on washers and dishwashers to reduce the risk of a rupture. The old adage “If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it,” does not always make sense when it comes to plumbing! Keep in mind that by swapping the old plumbing fixtures for new, more efficient models you could save money every month on your energy and water bills in addition to avoiding costly water damage repair bills.
5. Caulking: Check and re-do any aging caulking around bathtubs, showers, toilets, and sinks that might be allowing water to penetrate the surrounding structure.
6. Septic: If you have a septic system, any persistently marshy areas in your drainage field may signal a leak in your septic line. Although pumping a septic tank is an essential element of plumbing maintenance, there is no hard and fast rule governing how frequently you should pump the tank. It depends on several factors, like the number of people in your household, whether there is a garbage disposal, the size of your tank, its system design, and even the temperature in your region. Consult a septic expert to find out how often you should pump your septic tank.
7. Low water pressure: Test for low water pressure by running water from your tub faucet and then opening the kitchen faucet. If the pressure decreases when you open the second faucet, you should get a plumber to analyze the problem. Low water pressure is often caused by a leaks or sediment build-up in pipes.
8. Drains: Clogged drainpipes can often be avoided by regularly cleaning your drains with an eco-friendly drain cleaner. One easy way to clean your kitchen garbage disposal is to send some ice through it to clean out any grease that may have accumulated inside. Also, look for bubbles escaping up from a drain while water is trying to go down, as this could indicate a drain vent problem.

 Whether you perform these maintenance checks yourself or hire a professional to handle them, it is a worthwhile investment of your time or money. By taking preventative measures, you greatly reduce the risk that you encounter costly surprises down the road.

 If you do have water damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at 540-433-6100.

The SERVPRO Ready Plan

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

It is estimated that up to 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster...never reopen!" Are you prepared for the next disaster?

It is estimated that up to 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster, such as fire and flood never reopen!  Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.

Are you “Ready for whatever happens?”

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood.  The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Plan serves as a quick reference of important building and contact information or can be an ideal supplement to any well-designed emergency preparedness or existing contingency program.  Rather than simply reacting to disaster situations, most prefer proactive measures to establish a relationship with a restoration services company. 

By working with SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County to develop your personalized Emergency READY Plan your business will receive the benefit of over 30 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster.  SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County is a leader in water and fire damage response for the greater Harrisonburg/Rockingham County area and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

Call our office at 540-433-6100 to learn more on how to set up this profile for your facility and get prepared before disaster strikes!

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County Home

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

We are an IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham 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 have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who 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.

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

About SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County

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

Water Shut Off

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

Water shut off valve examples

In an emergency you may have to shut off the water to your home. For example, freezing or thawing may cause a water pipe to break. Water pipe breaks are also common with most types of natural disasters (winter storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, and more). Broken water pipes can lead to electrical hazards, long-term wood rot, long-term mold, or even drowning.

Where’s The Water Shut-Off Valve?
1. Look for the water shut-off valve where the water line enters your house. In warmer climates the shut-off valve may be outside your home where the water line meets your home’s exterior. But in most climates the water shut-off valve is just inside the house where the water line enters through your home’s foundation or exterior wall. Scott Finazzo, author of The Neighborhood Emergency Response Handbook, says that if your water comes in through a ground well the valves on either side of the pressure tank should both be shut off. 

2. Often the water shut-off valve is a quarter-turn ball valve. If that’s what you have, turn the valve a quarter of a turn until it’s perpendicular to the water pipe. Or your home may have a round handle that you turn clockwise until you can’t turn it anymore. Don’t have a master shut-off value in your home? Have one installed. 

If You Have Water Damage Call SERVPRO Of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County At (540) 433-6100.

3. Another water shut-off option is closing the municipal water meter shut-off valve. This valve, if you have municipal water, typically is in your front or side yard. Look for a round metal lid or box close to your property line. It’s often 24 to 48 inches from the curb or fence line.

If your water meter has a round metal lid use a wrench or pliers to rotate the lone nut on the lid counterclockwise. This willelease the latch and you can open the lid. Another type of metal lid requires a screwdriver. Turn the lid until the tabs line up with the gaps and you can lift the lid off. A third type of water meter lid is square or rectangular. You can pry it open with a screwdriver or pry bar.

Don’t reach into the meter box until you inspect the area for debris and rodents. If the box is old and covered with a lot of growth you may want to wear gloves. Once inside the municipal water meter box you’ll need pliers or a specialty tool to turn the valve. Turn it until it’s perpendicular to the water pipe.
 
If You Have Water Damage Call SERVPRO Of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County At (540) 433-6100.

Shut-Off Valves For Single Rooms
Sometimes you only need to shut off the water to one room. Most newer houses have shut-off valves at every sink and toilet. Your water heater may have several shut-off valves. If your issue is one leaking sink just shut off water to that sink. If you know the water heater is leaking just shut the valves to it off.

Saving Water-Damaged Electronics

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Professionals may be able to restore your water-damaged electronics

Water-damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by water. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties can coordinate the restoration of your electronics, including TVs, DVD players, computers, tablets, cell phones, and more. 

The Key To Electronic Cleanup
The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties starts by cleaning the exterior of your electronic devices to help stop further corrosion and damage. With us, your electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician. 

Cleaning Up Corrosion 
When it comes to cleaning up corrosion after water damage, be careful.  If you don’t use proper tools and techniques you can further damage your water-damaged electronic devices. You could also potentially injure yourself. Remember: electronic devices and liquids generally don’t mix. Any time you apply a liquid cleaning solutions to an electronic device, you need to be cautious. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties recommends that the average consumer never attempt to repair a water-damaged electronic device without professional assistance. When in doubt, take your device to a professional. If you are confident about cleaning up corrosion on your water-damaged electronic device by yourself, please keep these tips in mind: 

1. Keep safety first
   If you’re standing in water or your clothes are wet please remove yourself from any potential shock hazard before even thinking about retrieving a submerged or soaked electronic device. If the device is still on, turn it off. If possible, rotate and shake the electronic device to try to drain out any fluid. 
2. Always remove any batteries or power connectors.
   This not only prevents harm to you, but also prevents any short-circuiting of your electronic device. By doing this, you will also be exposing extra connectors that may already have corroded, so exercise caution. A shorted battery may be a fire and/or chemical hazard. If you see or feel any heat, smoke, steam, bubbling, bulging, or melting avoid handling the electronic device. 
3. Look for white or green “crusty” areas on the device.
   You may find them on the battery connectors, charging ports, SIM card connectors, or any other major metal connectors on the device. 
4. Use cotton swabs and a cleaning solution such as isopropyl alcohol.
   You can also use baking soda and water or vinegar to clean corrosion. Gently apply the solution to the affected area and wipe back and forth until you’ve removed the corrosion. If necessary, leave some solution on the corroded area and wipe it off later. 
5. Dry your electronic device with a soft cloth or a hair dryer on a cool setting.
   Do not use heat to dry out your device. Make sure your device is dried extremely well before attempting to replace the battery and turn the device on. Any water left in the device could cause additional water damage. 
6. Take special care with electronic circuit boards.
   If you think water or any liquid has reached an electronic circuit board take the device apart carefully. Follow the instructions and remember the order of the disassembly so you can put the device back together later. Soak up any remaining liquid on the circuit board with a lint-free cloth. Don’t use paper products (they could leave lint or scratch the board). Avoid rubbing any cloth on the circuit board because that might scratch or dislodge parts. Place the cloth over the board and press gently. This will soak up the liquid. Remove the worst of any remaining particles by brushing with a toothbrush. This includes any globs of dried liquid. You don’t need perfection at this stage. Then remove any dust or loose pieces of dried liquid by spraying the board with compressed air. Spray in one direction in quick bursts, since the canister can become extremely cold if used for longer sprays. Rinse the circuit board with clean or distilled water to remove any sticky materials. If your circuit board was wet by clean water and you didn’t have to remove dried materials, you may be able to skip this. Pat the board gently with a cloth to remove the majority of the moisture and allow it to dry completely. Clean any residue off the circuit board using a cotton swab. Moisten the cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol. Do not use a dripping wet swab. Swab gently in stubborn areas and be careful not to upset the components. The alcohol should take care of most of the work without rubbing. 
7. Too Far Gone
   When you try to repair a water-damaged electronic device there are no guarantees. The water-damage or corrosion may be permanent. These steps improve your chances of repairing it, but in the end some electronics might be too far destroyed. 

Tips for Cleaning Your Home/Office Space

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

A Clean Office Space Is Key

Divide Your Workspace Into Zones:

Determine how you want and need to use the space and set up zones for your daily functions. You may require a workspace for your computer, a library area for your research, a storage area for supplies and a filing area for your archives. This will provide a foundation for a more efficient use of space.

Keep Only What You Need at Arm’s Length:

Boxes of pens, stacks of papers and old coffee cups need to go. Rid your desk of visual clutter by paring down the items on top to the essentials only. Supplies, paperwork and personal items should be kept in the zones you’ve established for them.

Sort Your Catch-All Drawer:

Use drawer dividers to give everything a place, like compartments for paperclips and rubber bands. Go through the drawer every six weeks and clear out anything that is out of place or isn’t being used.

Eliminate Digital Clutter:

Digital clutter can be just as stressful as physical clutter. Organize digital files and your e-mail inbox just as you would paper files – with a system of logical and clearly labeled folders. Also, keep the icons on your desktop to a bare minimum, and trade in sticky notes on your monitor of calendar reminders.

Create A Daily Paper System:

Consider creating hanging files or baskets labeled “To Read,” “To Do,” and “To File.” Establish set days for each, so that you don’t get behind or feel the overwhelming need to do everything at once.

Disinfect Regularly:

Prevent the buildup of dust, dirt, food stains and fingerprints. Wipe down your desk, phone, keyboard, and monitor once a week with disinfecting wipes.

Tips provided by Forbes, The Dangers of a Messy Desk.

Back to School Home Safety Tips

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

Back to School Home Safety Tips

As we are nearing the end of August, and parents are enjoying their last few days before school we can only think of the many safety tips that parents should consider around the house.

In the Kitchen:

 -Are knives, forks, scissors, and other sharp tools in a drawer with a childproof latch?

 -Are glass objects and appliances with sharp blades stored out of reach?

 -Are matches and lighters stored in a locked cabinet

 In Bedrooms:

-Are window blind and curtain cords tied with clothespins or specially designed cord clips?

 -Is there a smoke alarm outside the bedroom?

 In Bathrooms:

 -Are razor blades, nail scissors, and other sharp tools stored in a locked cabinet?

 -Are all medication bottles, loose pills, coins, scissors, and any other small or sharp objects out of reach?

 - Are all bleaches, detergents, and any other cleaning products out of reach?

 Electrical:

 -Have you checked for and removed other potential electrical fire hazards, such as overloaded electrical sockets and electrical wires running under carpets?

 -Are all unused outlets covered with safety plugs?

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties Home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100.

Water Damage Timeline

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement in Harrisonburg

Timeline for the Water Damage Restoration Process

Flooding and water damage can occur for a number of reasons. It can happen very quickly and with very little notice. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties arrives swiftly and starts the water extraction process for your property almost immediately. This prompt response time helps to minimize the damage, cleaning, and restoration costs needed after such an event.

Within Minutes:

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

Hours 1 to 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.

After 48 Hours:

• 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.

More Than 1 Week:

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

About SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. Give us a call if you have any questions or concerns at (540) 433-6100.

Flood Damage

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is Here to Help Restore Your Home after Flood Damage

When a severe storm rolls into town, it is possible that it will bring flood damage with it. Storms often have aggressive winds and heavy rain. In fact, it is not uncommon for high-speed winds to knock over trees and other structures.The young tree in your front yard can easily smash a window if it is uprooted and thrown against your home. The broken window can allow gallons of water into your home.

A storm can leave several inches of damaging flood waters in your home. Water removal of this degree is not a job that any ordinary homeowner should have to tackle alone. Storms can easily carry dangerous toxins in their waters by tearing up sewage pipes and chemical containers. When storms bring black water with them, the cleanup process should be left to the professionals.

Our skilled technicians can arrive at your home as quickly as possible to begin the clean-up process. Our technicians use advanced equipment to remove the flood water, including extractors and pumps. We strive to get the water out of your home with speed and efficiency, and these tools allow us to do just that.

After SERVPRO removes the water, we clean up and remove any debris left by the storm. It is not uncommon for twigs, rocks, broken glass, and garden decorations to get inside of your home. If black water has soaked through your carpets, we work to remove it as quickly as possible, as the presence of black water can be detrimental to one’s health.

SERVPRO can then use tools like ventilation box fans, air movers, and refrigerant dehumidifiers to dry out the structure of your home in order to prevent mold growth.

If your home becomes flooded after a storm, do not hesitate. Call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100.

Safety Tip - If you suspect Mold

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, it can release microscopic spores that become airborne and circulate in your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals who use specialized equipment and techniques to remediate your mold problem with safety and efficiency.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today at (540) 433-6100.

Fire Extinguisher Tips

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Only Use A Fire Extinguisher If...

Fires are dangerous and extremely unpredictable. It is easy to become anxious during a fire, losing control over the situation.

Luckily, we now have disaster technology specifically designed to combat these situations, such as fire extinguishers and water hoses. It is important that we know exactly how and when to use them in an emergency.

Here are a few tips to follow when using a fire extinguisher to prevent further damage to your home.

Only Use A Fire Extinguisher If...

• The fire is contained in a small area, such as a waste basket, and is not growing.
• Everyone has exited the building. Fire extinguishers are messy and spray to cover a large area. Dry chemical fire extinguishers are tanks of foam or dry powder that puts out a layer of powder or foam, smothering the fire.If this foam is sprayed prematurely, an obstruction will be created and it will make it difficult for people to escape.
• The fire department has been called and the room is not filled with smoke. You want to be sure that they will be arriving soon so you do not create a larger obstruction and your family can safely view and access the escape route.

If your home or office is suffering from fire or smoke damage call your local SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100.

August is Ladder Safety Month

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Don't be this guy!

August is Ladder Safety Month

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties wants to remind you as the summer comes to an end, people are having work done in preparation for the fall. From paint jobs to cleaning gutters, one should pay careful attention to the following ladder safety tips.

• Be sure to inspect the ladder before using it. Check for broken or missing parts as well as grease, oil, or other substances that could result in a slippery surface.
• To ensure stability, place the ladder on firm, even ground. Make sure it is not near any electrical wires or power lines.
• When setting up the ladder, use the 4-to-1 rule. For example: if the ladder touches the wall 16 feet above the ground, the base of the ladder should be 4 feet away from the wall.
• Before climbing the ladder, make sure the braces are fully extended and locked in place.
• Never climb higher than the third rung from the top of the ladder.
• Never try to “jog” or “walk” the ladder to a new location. Instead, descend and relocate the ladder.
• When working from a ladder, stay centered and do not reach more than a comfortable arm’s length away. Keep your feet braced against the side rails and lean slightly forward.
• Always face the ladder when ascending or descending.
• Whenever possible, work within sight of someone who could provide assistance in case of an emergency.

Ladder climbing takes place in almost every home and workplace. Falls off of ladders are one of the top causes of fatal work-related injuries in the construction industry, as well as the third leading cause in all industries combined.