Recent Posts
Third-Party Certification for Cleaning and Restoration Professionals
8/24/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO is certified with the IICRC for water, fire, and mold damage.
Third-Party Certification For Cleaning And Restoration Professionals
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification is an independent third-party certification agency for the restoration industry. The IICRC reviews the certification processes and the standards put in place for cleaning and restoration professionals Hibsaw, OK. Companies and manufacturers in many industries work closely with third-party certification agencies for several reasons:
- Non-biased certification shows compliance with national or international standards.
- Third-party compliance shows a company's commitment to safety and quality.
- A mitigation certificate from a third-party increases credibility with customers, insurance companies, and regulators.
- Restoration companies benefit from enhanced regulations in quality and safety.
- Companies, auditors, and consumers enjoy increased trust and cooperation.
Increased Trust Between Service Providers and Consumers
While some government oversight plays a role in protecting consumers from fraud and low-quality goods or services, third-party certification takes a stronger stance. This is good for restoration companies and for consumers because it develops relationships of deeper trust between the service provider and the customer. Naturally, company leaders promote the quality and benefits of their own goods or services. When customers hear those claims and expect a high level of service, only to be disappointed, their trust in the company suffers.
Higher Levels of Quality and Stricter Standards
Agencies that oversee and enforce quality standards, such as IICRC, perform a series of checks and audits to ensure that companies are in compliance. Agencies may affect how often cleaning and restoration technicians are trained and could influence what is taught during trainings. As a result, customers don't have to take the word of marketers or company spokespersons; instead they look for certification from neutral parties.
Benefits for Service Providers and Customers
Third-party certification through agencies such as IICRC encourage higher quality standards and improved consumer confidence. There may be limitations to governmental oversight and industry regulations, but the involvement of an outside agency fills existing gaps. Cleaning and restoration companies offer certification and compliance verification to service partners and consumers. Customers enjoy the increased standards for quality and safety. It's a situation where all parties benefit.
3 Awesome Alternatives to Candles
8/22/2023 (Permalink)
You do not need to sacrifice your favorite scent or aesthetic for safety when you choose candle alternatives for your home in Luther, OK.
The power of a scent is indisputable, some aromas relax you while others transport you to another time and place. As you light a scented candle at your home in Luther, OK, you wonder if the benefits of a lit candle outweigh the fire hazards it poses. Candle fires are a common cause of fire damage in homes, especially around the holidays when candles are commonplace. When homeowners leave candles unattended or in close proximity to towels, curtains or other fabrics the risk of fire increases further. Consider these three candle alternatives to safely enjoy a fragrant home all year round.
1. Battery Operated
There are a wide variety of flameless candles powered by batteries. Some appear physically identical to candles, which is an excellent choice if you enjoy the visual appeal of candlelight. Others use scented wax to provide the olfactory sensation you desire. For an original look, there are battery-powered bases with scented decorative shades as well.
2. Warmers
Continue to enjoy candles without lighting the wicks by using a candle warmer. A lamp light over the candle melts the wax and disperses the scent through your home. Other candle alternatives include oil warmers, which releases fragrances through a battery or electrical source heating scented oil. Wax warmers are similar, by which a heated foundation melts scented wax.
3. Diffusers
Another flameless option is to diffuse a scent, such as by placing reeds in a base of aromatic oil. There are also many choices of battery or electrical water diffusers to use with any essential oil you desire.
You do not need to sacrifice your favorite scent or aesthetic for safety when you choose candle alternatives for your home in Luther, OK. If you do use a candle, never leave it unattended or place it too close to flammable materials. Should a candle fire occur, immediately leave the house and call 911. Contact a fire restoration specialist and your homeowner’s insurance company to begin the process of restoring your home. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROedmond.com/.
How To Be Proactive About Plumbing Issues
8/18/2023 (Permalink)
Contact your plumber right away and you may save yourself from needing a water damage mitigation specialist in Edmond, OK.
When plumbing problems happen, they can seem as unpredictable as a lightning strike. Maybe this is why so many business owners wait until there’s a broken pipe before taking action. The problem with this approach is that many plumbing issues can result in water damage and hiring a water damage mitigation specialist in Edmond, OK, is an added expense you want to avoid. You can prevent many plumbing repairs by being proactive. Follow these steps to keep your building’s plumbing healthy.
1. Find a Good Plumber First
Too many people wait until there’s a problem and then frantically search for any available plumber to come and fix it. Don’t wait for a problem. Ask around, read online reviews and test out a few different commercial plumbers to find one you trust. It helps to choose a plumber who has experience with your type of business, whether it’s a restaurant or apartment building. Once you have a good plumber, you’ll know exactly who to call when plumbing problems come up.
2. Schedule Regular Maintenance Visits
Most people don’t even know they can schedule regular maintenance visits with their plumber. During a maintenance visit, an experienced plumber can assess your entire building and let you know the state of your plumbing. Many leaks occur because pipes are old or made of poor-quality materials. If your plumber notices your supply lines are made from rigid plastic, he or she might recommend upgrading to braided steel. The expense of an upgrade could actually save you a great deal of money by preventing leaks and water damage.
3. Monitor Your Water Bill
Many plumbing problems can be invisible until the damage becomes extensive. A leak in the water main, broken pipes in the wall or a silently running toilet can cost thousands of dollars over time. In addition to regular maintenance, which can catch many of these issues, it’s a good idea to monitor your water bill. If you notice you’re paying more than usual, it could be due to a hidden leak. Contact your plumber right away and you may save yourself from needing a water damage mitigation specialist in Edmond, OK. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROedmond.com/.
When To Do Maintenance on Your Furnace
7/26/2023 (Permalink)
Furnace repair
Preventative fire cleaning on your home furnace in Arcadia, OK, is important to ensure it functions correctly and doesn’t cause fire damage. While many people suggest hiring a maintenance professional to inspect annually, there are some things you can do yourself as well to ensure you system runs efficiently.
Replace Filters Regularly
Dirt can be a big problem for heating and cooling systems, by lowering efficiency and burning extra fuel. Keep the system clean by vacuuming around the unit regularly and changing the filter monthly or whatever time-frame is recommended by the manufacturer.
Leaving old filters to sit for too long will add stress to the compressor and can eventually result in mechanical failures. Not only that, the dirt and debris will get recirculated through your home which can cause allergies and disease. It’s also important to do additional fire cleaning on heaters, radiators, and warm-air registers, while also ensuring they’re not blocked.
Maintenance Before Cold Weather
Many homeowners call a professional to do a yearly inspection and fire cleaning on their furnace before the heating season to confirm the system is clean and performing in the most efficient way possible. Here are a few steps you can take yourself to keep your bills low while staying warm:
Calibrate the thermostat. The correct calibration can be lost from excess dirt or being moved around. A furnace maintenance professional can check this annually, or you can replace it with a computerized one.
Clean and adjust the burners to improve efficiency, and check for any rust accumulation.
Reverse ceiling fans to a clockwise rotation to help push warm air down, especially if you have tall ceilings.
Seal any air leaks and all air ducts, especially in the attic or crawl spaces. Metal tape and insulation can temporarily save an aging duct system.
It’s good to get into the habit of allowing a professional to service your furnace once per year. Waiting until the end of the heating season (the off-season) may give you faster service at a slight discount. If you have endured some home damage due to a furnace issue, smoke cleaning and remediation services are available that can usually clean up the mess to almost as good as new.
Yard Water Management
7/18/2023 (Permalink)
Many outside flooding issues can be resolved with minor alterations to existing lawn and garden practices.
Weather conditions are widely variable in Edmond, OK. Discover how to control outside flooding and protect your property with a few simple landscaping practices.
1. Roof and Gutter Changes
One of the easiest fixes for excess water pooling around the home involves proper roof and gutter maintenance. If shingles are in disrepair or the gutters are clogged, this can prevent water from flowing cleanly off the roof and through the downspout during a rain storm. This means that rain can spill directly down near the house and seep into the foundation, basement, and crawlspace. In turn, this may require you to contact a flood cleanup service. Prevent this with proper roof inspections, yearly gutter cleanings, and downspout designs that deposit the water farther away from the base of the house.
2. Slope Control
Homes are typically built such that the soil slopes downward toward the border of the property, directing the water flow away from the home. If you notice outside flooding or any type of pooling, purchase additional topsoil or gravel to change the grade of your yard at that location by simply filling in the hole. If the water flow is excessive, it may be beneficial to dig a shallow drainage canal instead, bordered by slightly raised land on either side. These sloping variations are called swales, and can subtly solve rain drainage problems without disrupting the visual elements of your landscaping.
3. Surface Materials
Some ground cover materials are more suitable for wet conditions than others. If you have clay or silt soil, you may have noticed that running water tends to erode channels in your yard and prevent grass from growing in some locations. Plant sturdier shrubs and use heavy mulches or gravel to keep your topsoil layer from slowly washing down the storm drain.
Many outside flooding issues can be resolved with minor alterations to existing lawn and garden practices. Observe how water tends to flow through your property and make corresponding landscaping adjustments.
Top 5 Places Where Mold Likes to Hide
7/10/2023 (Permalink)
Mold damage on basement
Top 5 Places Mold Likes To Hide
Nearly every homeowner worries about mold growth at some point during homeownership. However, not every owner knows where to look. Mold can be a tricky organism because it likes to develop in dark corners away from prying eyes. Most often, you will smell mold before you see it. Therefore, to know when it is time to call in a mold removal crew from Oak Tree, OK, you need to know the top five places mold likes to hide.
Wall Cavities
Underlayment
Under Sinks
Mechanical Closets
Basements and Attics
Wall Cavities
Mold requires water or moisture to grow. Unfortunately for homeowners, most of your house's plumbing is tucked into the wall cavities. Also unfortunate, not every leak in your plumbing is perceptible from the other side of the wall. Some leaks are so minor that they don't even show up on your water bill. Therefore, your first hint that you have mold behind the wall might not come until you see moldy drywall.
Underlayment
Another common area for mold to grow is on underlayment, especially after a flood. While the flooring on top of the plywood subfloor might show signs of distress, mold can be developing.
Under Sinks
Mold growth is also typical under sinks, and it can seem to occur rapidly. However, most people store a lot of items under sinks, which can block early signs and indicators of such growth.
Mechanical Closets
Mechanical closets are where your hot water tank live, but they are often neglected areas of the home. Any space that combines moisture with extended absences from the homeowner is at an increased risk of fungal development.
Basements and Attics
Basements and attics are similar to mechanical closets. However, they are more likely to suffer from humidity problems and not direct water leaks. Be sure to check your attic and basement ceilings for mold on wood.
Mold growth is a concern for many homeowners. However, if you know where to look and who to call, you can nip any problem in the bud early.
Preparing for the Insurance Adjuster's Visit After a Sudden Pipe Break or Flood
6/26/2023 (Permalink)
The insurance adjuster works closely with our team from start to finish.
Preparing for the Insurance Adjuster's Visit After a Sudden Pipe Break or Flood
The first part of the insurance claim process is the home adjuster visit. These visits validate the claim and offer an estimate for restoration value. Therefore, to ensure you receive the funds you need following a water disaster like a pipe break, it is necessary to follow the appropriate steps.
- Mitigate damage
- Document loss
- Organize and categorize
Mitigate Damage
The first step is to mitigate any further damage. You can do this, depending on the severity of the loss, through DIY methods or by calling a disaster restoration company in Edmond, OK. These companies will likely have mitigation services available around the clock.
Document Loss
Next, once you know that further loss is unlikely, you can begin documenting the damage. For example, take photos of water damage and property that was ruined in the incident. A home adjuster moves quickly from site to site, so having damaged or irrecoverable items photographed ensures that nothing is missed on their visit.
Organize and Categorize
Next, once you have photographic evidence, find any receipts or service bills to demonstrate the value and care of the items affected by the flood. Documenting and organizing this information is another way of making life easier for the adjuster and ensuring that you get the coverage you need to make your home and yourself whole again.
Many people view a home adjuster as an enemy, someone out to cancel payments and make sure that you cannot recover from a disaster. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, their job is to minimize costs to their company, but it is also to make sure that you get what you deserve. Therefore, when a disaster strikes, don't get angry with an adjuster who keeps asking questions. Instead, find a way to reduce their questions through well-documented scenes and show them how prepared you are for their visit.
8 Ways to Stay Safe During a Tornado
6/23/2023 (Permalink)
How you can stay safe in Oklahoma City during a tornado.
Tornadoes around the Oklahoma City area are powerful and unpredictable natural disasters that can cause widespread damage and endanger lives. When a tornado warning is issued, it's crucial to know how to protect yourself and your loved ones. Here's 8 essential tips and precautions to help you stay safe during a tornado.
Stay Informed: Monitor local weather reports and listen to emergency alerts. Many communities have sirens or warning systems in place to alert residents of approaching tornadoes. Sign up for emergency notifications on your mobile phone, as well as any local warning systems, to ensure you receive timely updates.
Designate a Safe Shelter: Identify a safe shelter in your home or community. Ideally, this should be a basement or storm cellar, as these areas offer the best protection. If you don't have access to a basement, choose an interior room on the lowest level, away from windows, such as a bathroom or a closet. Avoid upper floors and areas with large spans of glass.
Prepare an Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit that includes essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, a battery-powered radio, a whistle, and a portable charger for your electronic devices. Keep this kit easily accessible, so you can grab it quickly in case of an emergency.
Take Cover: When a tornado warning is issued, take cover immediately. Grab your emergency kit and seek shelter in your designated safe location. Protect your head with a helmet or sturdy object, and use pillows, mattresses, or heavy blankets to shield yourself from flying debris.
Stay Away from Windows: Windows are particularly vulnerable during a tornado. Avoid them at all costs, as they can shatter and pose a serious risk of injury from flying glass shards. Close curtains, blinds, or shades to help prevent shattered glass from scattering into your safe shelter.
Avoid Mobile Homes: If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure, it's crucial to evacuate to a sturdier building or designated tornado shelter. Mobile homes are highly susceptible to damage during tornadoes, and they do not provide adequate protection.
Stay Calm and Reassure Others: During a tornado, it's natural to feel scared or anxious, especially if you have children or vulnerable individuals with you. Stay calm and provide reassurance to others. Speak in a soothing tone and explain the safety precautions you have taken to alleviate their fears.
Do Not Venture Outside: Under no circumstances should you attempt to go outside or leave your safe shelter during a tornado. Wait until the authorities declare the area safe before venturing out. Tornadoes can quickly change direction and intensity, so it's essential to remain in a secure location until the danger has passed.
What To Expect After a Fire in Your Home In Your Edmond, OK, Home
6/22/2023 (Permalink)
Aftermath of inside home fire
A home fire can cause tremendous upheaval for homeowners and family members. Once the emergency has subsided, the focus will begin to shift to fire damage cleanup and restoration. Before cleanup can begin, some safety concerns will be addressed. Here is what you can expect.
Safety Inspection
After the fire is extinguished, fire responders will inspect and assess the structure for safety. They will look at three primary areas to determine whether it is safe for cleanup crews to enter.
- Safety Hazards – Hazards will be identified and may need to be removed from the structure.
- Structural Integrity – The building’s main construction will be inspected for stability, and dangerous areas will likely be cordoned off until structural integrity is restored.
- Electrical System – The electrical will likely be disconnected until the water from the firefight can be removed.
The Inspection phase of the process establishes that your home is stable enough for you to enter it with a fire official.
Fire and Smoke Damage Survey
If you are cleared to enter your home, you will have a walk-through to view the fire damage and ask questions about the fire damage restoration process. This important step can prepare you for working with the professionals that will assist you with next phase.
Helpful Professionals
With an overview of the damage, you can contact your insurance agent to inquire about your coverage. Your agent will likely be able to refer you to a local fire remediation service. Fire cleanup is a complex process and requires specialized training and methods so your property can be cleaned, dried and restored as safely as possible.
Experiencing a fire in your Edmond, OK, home can bring significant disarray to your life. In the first few hours after a fire, you can rely on emergency responders, your insurance agent and your fire damage cleanup crews to help you move forward. One step at a time, they will ensure your home and your belongings—and ultimately your peace of mind—are restored “Like it never even happened.”
Storm Preparation
4/4/2023 (Permalink)
You should know well in advance when a storm is going to blow through Edmond, OK. While there is only so much you can do to prepare and protect your home, you should still take action to do everything possible to prevent flood water from entering your abode and water damage from harming your property, because a completely flooded building is the last thing you need to deal with.
1. Learn How to Shut Off Electrical and Water Supply
If you do not currently know where your circuit breaker and water main are located, then you need to find them on your property. You should turn off the power if your block experiences a power outage. You want to shut everything off because in the event power is restored, the sudden burst of energy could overload the system, resulting in significant damage to electrical appliances. You should also turn off all utilities right before you have to evacuate, if necessary.
2. Relocate Valuables
Keep any precious heirlooms out of the basement, which is most susceptible to flood water. You also want to keep valuables away from doors and windows, because they are entry points by which water or winds can enter.
3. Trim Trees
When you have several weeks’ notice of an oncoming storm in Edmond, OK you should consider hiring a professional service to trim and prune trees that are too close to your home. A diseased tree or weakened branches can break off and strike a building.
4. Move Lawn Accessories Outside
With strong enough winds, outdoor ornaments and furniture can become projectiles. Move them inside for the time being, or secure them outside by using a bungee cord or cable.
5. Maintain Gutters
Your home’s gutters help keep flood water away from the siding and foundation of your house. Remove leaves and other debris from them regularly so water does not become impeded.
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