Ways to Recover Lost Revenue

10/16/2024 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Edmond, OK

A fire can prevent a business from operating for days or weeks. This interruption can be ruinous without interruption coverage. Business owners should consider obtaining an interruption insurance rider in addition to a commercial property insurance policy. Find out how business interruption coverage can offset revenue loss due to fire damage at a commercial structure in Edmond, OK.

Cover Continued Expenses

An interruption policy can cover expenses that continue while a business is closed for damage mitigation and restoration. These expenses may include:

• Rent
• Payroll
• Taxes
• Utilities

Factor in these costs when determining the amount of interruption insurance coverage. It is also important to calculate the average daily income of a business. These figures and the overall risk level will determine policy premiums.

Cover Lost Business

The sooner restoration starts, the sooner a business will be able to reopen. Interruption coverage can make up for revenue loss during this process. If a business can operate out of a portion of the damaged structure or a temporary location, it may not be necessary to rely on an interruption policy.

Cover Temporary Relocation

Interruption coverage may take anywhere from 48 to 72 hours to start. Business owners should determine whether a primary commercial insurance policy or this rider will cover the costs of temporary relocation. A claim that only relies on this coverage for the purposes of relocation is likely to be much lower than a claim for the full cleanup and restoration period.

According to the National Fire Protection Program, fires cost over $300 billion every year. Business owners can limit losses due to disasters with interruption insurance. It is a good idea to develop a business continuity plan and to try to lower the length and overall cost of business interruption coverage. This can be achieved by hiring fire restoration professionals and finding another way to operate during this process.

Use SERVPRO® to Board Up Your Commercial Property After a Fire

4/3/2024 (Permalink)

A Commercial building on fire in Edmund. This building will need board up services from SERVPRO of Edmund and Midwest City

It can be difficult to determine where to begin cleaning up after a fire.  When you have experienced a fire disaster in Edmund, one of the first steps to consider is boarding up your commercial building.  Dealing with fire damage is devastating enough without the threat of added problems like looting.  Therefore, it is important to request help from SERVPRO® of Edmund and Midwest City.  Our professionals can ensure that your commercial building stays protected. Board-up services are designed to safeguard your property and belongings from other forces at work, whether human or environmental, and there are many benefits to acquiring these services for your commercial property.

Boarding up your commercial property helps prevent thieves and vandals from entering.  Unfortunately, there are many people who try to profit off a disaster.  Seeing an easy opening into a building through broken windows or doors is simply an invitation for these individuals.  Boarding up any entrances while your property is vacant will help keep looters away until repairs completed.

Boarding up your commercial property guards against the weather causing more damage.  If open areas of your building are hit by a rainstorm or intense winds, you will be forced to contend with more than just fire damage. Covering these openings with plywood helps to eliminate any chance of additional damage.  Preventing additional damage can save you money and time.

Insurance companies often require property owners to utilize board-up services.  Following their advice can help you get greater coverage if the damage is proven to be solely from the fire.  Your insurance carrier is  not likely to pay for additional damage from outside forces. They could consider giving you less coverage overall for not following procedure.

Keep your commercial property in Edmond protected by using SERVPRO of Edmund and Midwest City to board up after a fire.  Using SERVPRO will help prevent looting and additional damage to your property.

SERVPRO of Edmund and Midwest City should be your first choice for any residential or commercial fire damage.  Our team of professionals is trained to assess the damage, identify potential threats, and respond quickly to restore your property to preloss condition.  SERVPRO of Edmund is available 24/7 by calling 

How To Prevent Water Damage During Construction

10/6/2023 (Permalink)

The contractor has a responsibility to discuss building system details and inspection concerns with the client.

Water damage can cause delays and damage on a construction site. Contractors should calculate water damage risks and perform testing at every stage of the building process. A broken pipe requiring water pipe repair or other sources of water damage can necessitate delays or rework and prove a major source of loss. It is important to take preventative measures from the planning to the finishing stages.

Before Construction Begins

Contractors should start by developing a quality assurance and control program and evaluate contract documents for the following factors:

• Backup power and pumping systems for dewatering
• Critical waterproofing systems
• Drainage plans to protect excavations or structure
• Water infiltration susceptibility

Water can penetrate through the building envelope and undermine the integrity of the structure being built. Internal releases are another common source of damage as construction proceeds. The sooner hydronic and piping systems are installed, the less likely they will be to cause damage to finished work.

During the Construction Process

A quality director and water protection team should monitor and address any problems that arise, from water pipe repair to a flooded excavation. A contractor may rely on an internal team or external subcontractors to provide the following services:

• Hydrostatically test fire protection systems and check for leakage
• Perform air pressurization testing of piping systems prior to charging with water
• Charge piping systems by zone without all valves open
• Monitor piping for at least 24 hours after charging
• Perform water-tightness testing on roof
• Complete the structure before installing finishes

The contractor has a responsibility to discuss building system details and inspection concerns with the client. They should also address all issues, including water pipe repair, in a timely manner and not allow problems to persist. This can save time and money on delays and rework. Contact a commercial restoration company located in Edmond, OK, if a finished project sustains water damage. 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/.

How Deal With

4/4/2023 (Permalink)

Mold breeds and multiplies in warm moist places. Schools and office buildings are the perfect breeding ground for mold to take root and bloom.

Did you know that within 24 to 48 hours, mold can begin to grow in flood-affected areas? Mold growth happens disastrously quick when there is standing water, and even without mold, you have to worry about the proliferation of bacteria in standing water and gray water. To get ahead of mold damage, you need to have a reactive, responsive plan for restoring your commercial building in Edmond, OK.

1. Move Fast

Don’t delay cleaning up after a flood. Particularly, don’t delay cleaning up any water. Mold growth is dependent on water, and without moisture, it will have nothing to feed on. Make water removal your first step in your cleanup plan, and initiate removal as soon as your property is safe to enter.

2. Be Aggressive

You may be tempted to try milder methods, wait, and then try something more aggressive. By that time, mold has already had a chance to set in and will be even harder to get rid of. Use the most effective methods first rather than trying for something softer. As long as you aren’t damaging the interiors of your property, you’re better off going in with stronger cleansers and cleaning equipment.

3. Be Thorough

Don’t leave a single corner untouched. Nooks and crevices are places where mold thrives, and where undetected moisture can make a perfect place for mold to begin growing out of the sunlight. Check every last crack to ensure you aren’t leaving any untouched hidden areas that may lead to problems.

4. Be Safe

No matter how worried you are about mold growth, be safe when handling your flood restoration and cleaning. If you don’t trust yourself to handle the equipment and chemicals needed to appropriately siphon away water and eliminate mold, contact professionals or enlist help from others. Always make sure to work in a well-ventilated place, wear protective gear, and avoid contact with hazardous substances, black water, sharp edges, or exposed electrical wires. Visit http://www.SERVPROedmond.com for more information on commercial storm damage. 

Fire damage and water damage

10/8/2022 (Permalink)

Fire in an apartment building in Edmond, OK

Fire and Water Damage Go Hand in Hand

When a fire breaks out on your residential or commercial property in Edmond, OK, it is very common to see a range of damage done. Not only will you see fire, soot, and smoke damage on your property, but it is very common to see water damage present on your property as well. Learn more about how fire and water damage go hand in hand below. 

Some fires burn for hours before being extinguished.

As a general rule, the longer a fire burns, the more damage it will cause. In addition to destroying property and causing injuries, fires can spread quickly throughout buildings. Firefighters may not be able to contain the blaze until it has burned itself out.

Here are some examples of what can happen when a fire goes unchecked:

• The fire can spread to other areas of your building or apartment complex.
• Smoke damage can occur when smoke fills up an area after part or all your home has been consumed by flames. 

Water damage from a fire is common.

Water damage from a fire is one of the most common types of damage seen in commercial establishments and homes alike. When a fire occurs, water is typically used to extinguish it. This can cause extensive water damage that can be more expensive to repair than the actual fire itself.

Water damage can occur in numerous ways:

• Fire hoses can spray water around and onto walls, ceilings, floors, and other parts of your building that are susceptible to it.
• Smoke or soot may seep into wall cavities or cracks between building materials where moisture cannot escape easily. The combination of smoke/soot with moisture results in mold growth which causes further deterioration of materials including wood paneling as well as plaster walls which have been affected by heat from nearby fires.

Mitigation and restoration services should be called as soon as possible.

The sooner you call a professional company to mitigate and restore your fire or water damage, the better. Don't try to clean up the mess yourself; this may not only cause more damage but can also be very dangerous. You should also not try to save anything that has been damaged by fire or water; instead, let professionals remove it from your home and dispose of it or restore it properly. Don't touch anything that is hot and don't touch any electrical equipment without first turning off the power supply at its source or calling an electrician for help. Do not turn off any water yourself either—this should be done by a professional who knows how to handle these situations.

In conclusion, it is best to call a professional fire damage restoration service as soon as possible after experiencing a fire in your home or business. The longer you wait to call one, the more expensive it will be when all is said and done.

What To Do Following a Furnace Puffback in Your Commercial Building

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Puffback damage in Oak Tree, OK

What to Do If Your Commercial Building Experiences a Furnace Puffback

A commercial heating system keeps your employees warm during the frigid winter months in Oak Tree, OK. However, a malfunctioning oil furnace can cause major harm to your property. A broken HVAC system may spark a fire that necessitates emergency restoration services.
You may also have to deal with puffback damage to your property. The furnace could spray sticky soot all over the building. The soot could land inside closets and drawers and spread through the duct work.
Because the spread of sticky soot is often extensive, you should not attempt to clean up furnace puffback on your own. Instead, follow the below steps after the disaster.

1. Assess the Damage
Start by taking a tour of your building to see how far the soot spread. Do not forget to check behind closed doors or underneath furniture.

2. Call Your Insurer
Most commercial insurance policies cover puffback damage. Talk to your claims adjuster to find out the extent of your coverage.

3. Contact the Experts
You can use the insurance money to pay for the repairs to your property. Have a trained HVAC technician fix the broken furnace.
Then, contact restoration professionals. They will have the proper cleaning agents and tools to remove the soot from the property. They should eliminate odors and contaminants, as well. Depending on the extent of the damage, the process may include additional repairs to the structure of the premises.
You may be tempted to address the puffback on your own. However, soot is difficult to clean and may hide in hard-to-reach areas of your commercial property. Removing this soot thus requires special expertise. Failure to use the proper techniques could just make the puffback damage worse.
Therefore, you should let your local HVAC professionals and your preferred restoration company handle the repairs. If you have proper insurance, the out-of-pocket cost of the remediation may be minimal.

4 Common Places To Find Mold in a Commercial Building

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

Discovering mold growth in your building can be overwhelming.

Common Places To Find Mold in a Commercial Building

Do you have a mold infestation in your Hibsaw, OK, commercial building? Mold is a sneaky little organism. A few tiny spores can quickly turn into full-on mold growth, followed by the development of a massive infestation. You may not even know it exists until you discover that it's taken over part of your building. Here are some common places to find mold damage in a commercial property.

1. Carpet
Mold spores are practically everywhere, inside and out. It's easy for your shoes or clothes to carry in spores from the outdoors, where they'll ultimately end up on the carpet. Soaked carpet, such as after a flood, probably needs to be replaced. The water can also soak through the padding and even the subfloor. It's impossible to completely dry carpeting, especially padding before mold begins growing. These materials, once damp, become a perfect place for mold to set up a house.

2. Ceiling Tiles
Ceiling tiles in areas with high humidity or water damage can result in mold growth. Mold can result from a leaky roof or leaky pipes, especially because ceiling tiles typically don't have any ventilation. Unless you see the damage, it could be quite a while before you know there's a problem.

3. Ductwork
Condensation can result when ductwork isn't operating correctly. The dark, wet conditions make it an excellent place for mold to grow and spread. As well, air blows through the ductwork, potentially spreading spores throughout the building. When this happens, it's likely that mold remediation professionals will be required to get it under control.

4. Drywall
Water-damaged drywall is very susceptible to mold because it's porous. Sometimes the mold grows on the back of the drywall, so you won't even know it's there until there's a substantial problem.
Discovering mold growth in your building can be overwhelming. Mold cleanup must be completed as soon as possible for the well-being of your employees and your business.

Reasons To Get a Security Fence

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

There are many reasons to put up a security fence after a fire.

Benefits a Security Fence Provides To Your Property

A fire in your commercial building in Oklahoma Christian University, OK, can leave your property vulnerable in many ways. Not only does it compromise the integrity of the structure itself, but it can also leave behind holes or broken windows that open your building up to the elements. A security fence protects the perimeter of your property and provides several benefits, particularly while fire restoration is in progress.

Deter Thieves and Vandals With Extra Security
Those with criminal intent look for weaknesses in buildings. Commercial properties are particularly susceptible to crime because they are less likely to be occupied overnight. In addition to a fence, which provides a visible barrier and a clear message to keep out, you can use other security measures after a fire to make your property less appealing to thieves and vandals:

• Cameras
  
• Board-up services
  
• Motion sensors
  
  

Use a Security Fence To Keep Animals Away
Broken windows and other paths of access to your building are common after a fire. Stray cats, dogs, raccoons, possums and other wild creatures may see this as an invitation to get out of the elements. Until fire damage mitigation specialists are able to restore the structure, it helps to have a security fence to keep animals away from the building. It may not deter the most determined vermin, but it can certainly lower the number of pests you have.

Outline Your Property With Temporary Fencing
Another practical benefit of a fence is simply that it helps mark your property line for those who are not familiar with it. It sets a clear boundary for your restoration team. It also shows the insurance adjuster that you are working hard to keep your property contained and safe, increasing your chances of a successful claim.
There are many reasons to put up a security fence after a fire. It promotes clear communication and keeps your building safe from further harm.

How To Handle Mold in Your Company's Air Ducts

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Whenever you notice black mold in your building, it is important to take quick action.

There's a lot to do when you discover black mold in your commercial building. For starters, you want to contain the spread. This can be done by assessing what caused the mold outbreak in the first place. Usually it involves a past water leak on your property. If you have had a pipe break or a roof leak, it is important to make sure these issues have been addressed. The next step is to contain any spread of the fungus. Both of these issues can be handled by a professional mold remediation franchise in your area. Highly-trained technicians will perform a quick inspection and assessment of your building in Luther, OK.

THE HVAC System

Black mold and other types of harmful mold are spread by way of microscopic spores. These tiny substances can be carried throughout a building by way of air currents and other movements, and they often are found in the HVAC system. Several signs point to mold in your air ducts:

• The appearance of black dust
  
• The presence of musty odors
  
• The sudden onset of health issues
  
  

An experienced remediation company has the equipment and knowledge to determine if there is mold in the HVAC system.

The Cleaning Process

It is not a simple process to clean ducts of mold. In many cases, the air conditioning unit or the heating system will have to be disassembled so technicians can gain access to the mold. They will then use vacuums and approved cleaning agents to remove the fungus. The job must be completed according to industry standards or the offending organisms might return.
Whenever you notice black mold in your building, it is important to take quick action. The longer you wait, the more serious the problem usually becomes. A professional company can handle complicated problems such as mold in your HVAC system.

3 Benefits of Business Interruption Insurance

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Fire destroyed a commercial property in Arcadia, OK.

Business Interruption Insurance Offers Three Advantages

When a fire in Arcadia, OK, spreads to your business, many thoughts run through your mind. First and foremost, you want to ensure the safety of your staff and yourself. Once the flames are out, your focus turns to the building and contents. During the fire restoration process, it may seem like your life is on hold. Interruption insurance helps keep you afloat during this trying time. Here are three benefits of this add-on coverage.

1. Protect Your Investment

Property insurance usually covers the cost of cleanup and restoration. Fire restoration professionals assess the damage and often consult directly with your insurance company before the process begins. Depending on the extent of the damage, your business may be closed for an extended period. During this time of business interruption, there are still bills to pay. Interruption insurance covers operating expenses during reconstruction.

2. Cover Your Employees

While your business is closed for repair, it does not generate income. However, when you plan and have this specialized insurance in place, employee wages are covered.

3. Achieve Peace of Mind

The biggest benefit of add-on insurance for business interruption is peace of mind. Nearly half a million businesses fail per year in the United States. Although commercial property insurance typically covers restoration costs, bankruptcy can threaten even the savviest of business owners due to the related loss of income. With this protection in place, the chance of a fire shutting down your livelihood is far less likely.

Nothing is more devastating than a fire destroying your commercial property in Arcadia, OK. Your business may be closed for an extended time while fire restoration specialists remediate and repair damage “Like it Never Even Happened”. During this period, interruption insurance protects your investment and your employees. You can worry less about struggling to pay the bills and focus on getting your business back up and running.

Preventative Maintenance Strategies for Commercial Plumbing

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

Professionals check moisture levels in the walls to locate moisture.

Commercial Plumbing Preventative Maintenance Techniques

No one likes having to deal with plumbing problems. They can cause significant damage to your commercial property that can only be fixed by water remediation experts. When you bring in the experts before the problem starts, however, you can prevent most of the common issues property owners in Edmond, OK, tend to have. Being proactive can save you a lot of money and a lot of headaches in the long run.

Keeping a Watchful Eye

Some problems cannot be avoided. For example, if there is a water main break, your building will likely sustain some damage no matter how vigilant you are. Most plumbing issues, however, are easily prevented by recognizing and dealing with them as soon as you discover that something is wrong. A few key things to look out for include:

• Signs of leaks, such as bowed walls, standing water or water marks on the ceiling
  
• Clogged drains, as evidenced by overflow and slow draining sinks
  
• Low water pressure readings when you test with a pressure gauge
  
  

If you notice the signs of potential plumbing problems, contact someone to further assess and fix them immediately. The sooner a problem is fixed, the less damage it will do.

Have Your Plumbing Inspected

Regular inspections are vital for keeping your plumbing system working properly. Certified professionals can find the broken pipe or root invasion that is causing the problem in your building. With frequent inspections, they may even find it before it causes any damage that you would be able to see. Prevention trumps solution every time.

Taking care of a commercial plumbing system is a big responsibility, but preventing plumbing problems is well worth the effort. Have your plumbing professionally inspected before fall and after winter. It’s also a good idea to perform monthly inspections yourself. By being proactive, you can save yourself a lot of time and money.

Post Fire Water Cleanup

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Apartment fire in Arcadia, OK.

Water Cleanup Following a Fire

Water cleanup after a fire in Arcadia, OK, can sometimes cause more stress than the fire itself. If the fire department gets to your home early enough, the fire may be put out before it can cause too much damage. The damage done during this period, however, can still be extremely costly.

Damage Caused by Water

A fire hose can spray 90 gallons per minute at a force great enough to crush simple furniture, and sometimes a firefighter will have to break through windows, walls, or doors. Water from a fire hose can also cause lasting damage if left alone. It can discolor furniture, build mildew in the walls or rugs, and cause mold to grow on carpet and furniture. Damage to second floors can create sagging areas that need to be carefully worked around until structural repairs can be made.

Tips for Water Cleanup After a Fire

If a fire damaged your commercial building, follow these water and smoke cleanup steps:

• Always have a professional service worker examine electronics and appliances that have been exposed to water before attempting to use them in post fire cleanup.
• Open windows and place fans as needed to properly ventilate carpet and furniture, and help speed up the drying process.
• Separate clothing and fabric for easier drying, and send a small sample for professional cleaning to get rid of the smoke smell. A test sample will tell you whether or not your clothing is salvageable, or if you need to throw out damaged items.
• Dry out furniture by opening drawers and cabinets, unless they’re stuck. Forcing swollen drawers to open could cause worse damage.

Water cleanup can feel like an enormous task, especially if the damage extends throughout your home, but there are a variety of ways to make cleanup semi-painless, including reaching out to fire restoration professionals. Always carefully go through your belongings to salvage whatever is possible as soon as it’s safe, and ventilate your home to help dry residual water and air out the smoke.

How To Prevent Mold Growth in Your Commercial Property

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses professional solutions and cleaning techniques to remove mold from your rugs and carpets.

How Do You Prevent Mold In Buildings?

Mold spores are in the air, and there's no way to prevent them from coming inside your commercial building. They hitch rides on clothing, blow in with the breeze and get dispersed throughout the building with the assistance of your HVAC system. You can, however, prevent the spores in the air from teaming up to form a growth that damages the structure of your building in Oklahoma City, OK, and causes the whole place to be smelly musty with regular practices such as carpet cleaning, HVAC maintenance and HEPA filters.

1. Cleaning

Mold loves to grab on to the closest particle and set up shop. If you have your carpets cleaned regularly, you are giving the spores fewer particles to attach to. Make sure that the carpets are thoroughly dried after cleaning to ensure that the moisture doesn't become a breeding ground for mold.

2. Maintenance

In addition to carpet cleaning, you should also inspect and clean your HVAC system regularly. Mold can thrive in your HVAC system for weeks before you know there's a problem. If you inspect your air ducts frequently, you can learn about any mold problems on the horizon before they get out of hand. If you discover a problem during your inspection, it's a good idea to call mold remediation specialists immediately.

3. Filter

One way to prevent mold spores from settling on surfaces is to take them right out of the air and destroy them. You can make the air in your commercial building purer by using HEPA filters with an activated carbon pre-filter that captures the mold spores as they enter. It isolates them, starving them of moisture so that they die.

Mold in the air is inevitable, but mold problems are preventable. With regular carpet cleaning, HVAC inspection and the use of HEPA filters, your chances of experiencing mold.

3 Steps a Restoration Company Might Take To Repair Your Flooded Business

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded office building in Luther, OK.

What Is Restoration Process?

Flooding can be devastating to your Luther, OK business. However, the trouble may not end once the waters recede. There may be much to deal with in the aftermath, including how to handle a tear out for damaged wall sections to how to drain away standing water from your building. Calling for the services of a qualified flood damage and restoration company can be a wise first step, and understanding the cleanup process may give you peace of mind as flood technicians work to repair your property.

1. Water Extraction

The first step your flood technicians might take is to gauge the depth and seriousness of any flooded rooms. Depending on the severity, they may bring in large tanker trucks, trash pumps and sump pumps to drain away the standing water. Removing the water can help lower the humidity in an affected area and reduce the risk of wood swelling or rotting.

2. Removal of Damaged Building Material

After the drainage, cleanup techs can assess the worst of the water damage by inspecting your walls, floors and ceilings. If there is any drywall in your building, the crew may have to perform a tear-out to deal with mold or damaged insulation that may be behind its exterior. These materials will likely need replacing, especially once they have been soaked with contaminated water. You can ask your technicians whether other types of wood or flooring materials may need replacement or if they can be disinfected once the area is dried.

3. Cleaning and Deodorizing

One aspect of storm restoration that you may not have considered is the deodorizing of your building. Flood water can leave behind a musty, moldy odor that may linger for months. Your technicians may offer you several options for cleaning and neutralizing odors.

You may need tear-out services or water cleanup in the aftermath of a Luther, OK, storm. Calling in a professional restoration and cleanup team that can perform a variety of services can give you peace of mind, no matter what kind of damage your building endured.

A Temporary Security Fence May Be Needed After a Fire

4/24/2021 (Permalink)

A temporary security fence is part of protecting your business after a disaster.

A Temporary Security Fence May Be Needed After a Fire

If your business suffers a serious fire, one problem you may not be expecting is trespassers on the property. Most of them may be harmless, but some can cause serious problems. A temporary security fence is a cheap alternative to permanent fencing that can stop problems with trespassers:

• Children may be injured.
  
• Animals may be destructive.
  
• Thieves may steal.
  
  

These fences can be used quickly and are the affordable standard for low-security needs.

Easy To Find
Construction fencing is found at any hardware store and makes an excellent security barrier for most circumstances. The bright orange color is immediately visible and stands out for less chance of an accident.

Light and Quick
The fencing can be put up very quickly — literally the same day as your fire in many cases — and it’s so light, it doesn’t need much bracing. To keep out animals, it has to be tightened, but that’s also easy to do and can be the fastest solution to an immediate security need.

Part of the Package
Along with a security fence, the easiest and most effective way to limit access to your fire-impacted commercial property in Oak Tree, OK, is to hire a fire damage restoration expert to tarp and board the damaged area. No matter what caused damage, once the building envelope is broken, the inner areas are exposed to the elements, causing further problems that may not be covered by insurance.
Insurers expect you to take reasonable precautions after a fire, including covering exposed areas within a reasonable time. In most cases, restoration professionals take care of everything, including the fencing and the exposed places. They’ll board up areas to prevent human access and cover the rest with tarps. They can then begin the restoration process with an eye to getting the areas of the business most needed to operate ready as soon as possible. The goal is to reduce your business interruption and get your revenue stream flowing again.
A temporary security fence is an easy and inexpensive part of protecting your business after a disaster. Any low-security area can be effectively controlled with such a barrier.

Why Mold Keeps Coming Back

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

Carpet clean up in Waterloo, OK

Why Mold Keeps Coming Back

Microscopic mold spores can enter your home or building through windows, doors, or air conditioning systems. Mold thrives on moisture to grow. If you continue to discover mold growth in the same spot in your home or building in Waterloo, OK, despite cleaning it up, it's possible that you aren't addressing the source of the problem correctly.

1. Identify Water Issues
Mold returns when sources of water problems are not properly addressed. Look for leaky pipes, dripping air conditioners, and condensation build-up from high humidity. If you find mold in one of these areas, simply cleaning it up will not solve the issue. You must fix the source of the water issue and prevent further moisture build-up to discourage continual mold growth.

2. Clean Thoroughly
Address the mold spores in the air. Turn off any air conditioners or systems that could be circulating mold spores to other areas and use an air filtration system that can clean the air. Clean and remove all visible mold with antimicrobial cleansers.

3. Remove and Replace Damaged Items
Furniture and possessions infested with mold should be discarded and replaced. Remove and replace any building materials affected by water damage that cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried such as carpets, flooring, or even patches of drywall or ceiling tiles. When mold keeps coming back, it's likely it was never gone. Mold often grows beyond the surface of what you can see. Remove and replace those areas that are repeatedly infested with mold.

4. Use Professional Equipment
If you continue to experience mold in the same areas over and over, your cleaning methods may be inadequate to address the problem. Mold remediation specialists have professional equipment that will effectively scrub the air clean. They are also skilled in identifying and removing mold-infested materials.
Mold growth is invasive and often recurrent. As mold spores are everywhere, it's challenging to rid your home or building of it completely. Address the source of recurrent mold and clean and replace as necessary.

4 Sources of Category 2 Water

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Dentist office damaged by water

4 Sources of Category 2 Water

If your Luther, OK, building has been flooded, there are three categories of water that you could be dealing with. These range from clean water to highly-contaminated black water. In between is gray, or category 2, water. This is not as harmful as black water but can contain chemicals, urine, or other contaminants. This type of water can come from several sources.

1. Overflow from Plumbing Fixtures
Like black water, gray water often comes from an overflowing toilet. If the water contains urine but no other kinds of waste, it will be considered category This can happen if the toilet has been clogged and cannot properly drain. A water pipe repair may be necessary if the cause is damaged plumbing.

2. Water From Damaged Appliances
Broken dishwashers, washing machines and other types of appliances can be the source of category 2 water as well. The chemicals used in these appliances contribute to the contamination of the water.

3. Water Leaking Through Multiple Floors
A broken pipe or other water problem on an upper floor can be another source. While this water is considered clean when it comes from the pipe, it is category 2 once it reaches the lower floors. When it passes through a level, it can pick up contaminants from building materials between floors.

4. Clean Water
Another cause of category 2 that you may not have considered is clean water. As it continues to sit, bacteria can grow, causing it to become contaminated. A cleanup and restoration company can remove water damage to prevent this from happening. They can also make water pipe repairs and perform other services.
Category 2 water damage can come from a variety of sources. Whether it comes from broken plumbing that requires water pipe repair or from a damaged appliance, this issue should be addressed as soon as possible. Leaving water to sit can increase its contamination level, resulting in more serious problems.

How to Fix a Toilet That Won't Stop Flushing

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

A continuously flushing toilet can drive your water bill up

Many toilets in commercial buildings are controlled by a device known as a flushometer. While these devices usually work quite well, they are still prone to malfunctioning. This can cause toilets to engage in a never-ending flush cycle, ultimately driving up your water bill and resulting in damage from toilet overflow. If your building in Edmond, OK, is suffering from this affliction, consult the following guide.

Step-by-Step Toilet Repair Guide

Repairing a toilet is a relatively simple process, even if you have very little plumbing experience. Follow this guide to stop a toilet flood:

• Use a flat screwdriver to shut off the water. There should be a slot on either side of the flushometer, depending on which direction it's facing.
  
• Use a wrench to loosen the flushometer's top lid. After this, you should be able to unscrew the lid using your hands.
  
• Carefully remove the flange cover to expose the gasket. You may experience some water spray while performing this step.
  
• Remove the gasket and clean out any built up sediment. It's a good idea to thoroughly rinse the gasket as well. Use a small, thin object to clean out the weep hole as well.
  
• Replace the gasket after you finish cleaning it and reverse steps 1 through 4 to reassemble the flushometer.
  
  

If the above steps do not resolve your toilet overflow problem, you may have to replace the gasket completely. If your toilet still isn't working properly, you may have to contact professional plumbers to assist you with the issue.
A continuously flushing toilet can drive your water bill up, as well as annoy your employees and drive customers away. It's imperative that you resolve any toilet overflow issues as soon as possible so that you can resume business as usual. If your commercial bathroom has suffered any type of water damage as a result of the toilet flood, you need to contact flood remediation experts to help resolve the problem.

How Leaks Can Cost Your Business Money

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a leak, or if a leak has caused a bigger problem, then a water damage remediation company can help.

When you’re busy running a business in Edmond, OK, you might feel like you don’t have time to take care of a little water leak in your building. Unfortunately, ignoring this seemingly insignificant problem can have a bigger impact than you may realize. It can affect your building and cost you money in the following ways.

1. Higher Water Bills
Even small water leaks can lose your business a lot of money if they are left alone. Over time, the water lost from leaking pipes or faucets can add up to hundreds or thousands of dollars. If you have noticed a spike in your water bill but can’t figure out the reason, it is possible that there is a leak somewhere in your building.

2. Repairs and Restoration
Not only can a water leak cost you money in higher bills, but it can also result in the need for expensive repairs. Drywall, insulation, carpeting, and other absorbent materials can be easily damaged by water. In some cases, they may need to be replaced. Leaks can also contribute to the growth of mold in your building. Mold can be difficult to remove once it has begun to spread, so it is best to address leaks before this becomes an issue.

3. Damaged Equipment
In some cases, a leak can lead to a pipe break. If this happens, flooding can occur in the building, resulting in a large amount of damage. It can affect a lot of the furniture in the building as well as expensive equipment. Electronics can begin to rust quickly or may have a short. This can cause the devices to stop working entirely, requiring a replacement.

If you have a leak, or if a leak has caused a bigger problem, then a water damage remediation company can help. They can perform restoration on your building and may be able to save some of your damaged belongings as well.

What Is Black Water?

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

What would you do if your business flooded tomorrow?

What is Black Water?

Dealing with water damage in Edmond, OK isn’t something that your neighbors will envy you for. It can be absolutely devastating for your commercial property, not to mention the possibility of being temporarily displaced, and business put on hold. In preparation for the possibility of a flood in your area, here are a few precautionary steps to ensure you are prepared.

1. Know your flood risk

It’s important to keep track of your region’s flood risk. There are a number of factors that can determine your flood risk, but keep in mind that nowhere in the United States is free of flood risk. If you live in a coastal city during hurricane season, your flood risk will dramatically increase. Other areas with typically high flood risk include low-lying areas near bodies of water or downstream from a dam or levee.

2. Know your insurance options

When it comes to natural disaster-type flash floods, typical commercial insurance policies often will not cover the damage. Flood insurance is a separate policy purchased through FEMA, so it’s important to keep that in mind if you do live in an area with high flood risk. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with local disaster restoration companies and choose the one you prefer beforehand since the time to act must be immediately after the flood.

3. Know the signs of water damage.

Some floods are more severe than others, and in those cases, it will be obvious when your business has been affected. In other cases, however, water damage can be more insidious and it’s important to recognize the signs, as well as knowing the different types of water that can damage your home. Blackwater, for example, is highly contaminated and will cause severe odor and mold damage to your property if not treated immediately. Flood water is, in every case, considered black water. Greywater can also cause damage but is derived from appliances and pipes in your building.

Stay on top of the flood situation, and avoid the worst of the damage caused by black water. 

Reasons Your Water Heater is Leaking

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Flushing your unit is one of the best ways to keep it operating for years

Flushing A Water Heater

Maintaining your Edmond, OK home's water heater can extend its life and help it work efficiently. One way to ensure it keeps running at peak performance is to flush it out. This process cleans away sediment that collects inside the water tank and can be performed in a few simple steps.

1. Cut the Power

It is vital to your safety that you turn off the power to your water tank before you perform the flush. Turn off the circuits to the room where you house your heater, or snuff out the pilot light. While the tank cools, you can collect a few tools you will need to complete the flush, including rubber gloves, a garden hose and a screwdriver.

2. Connect the Hose

Locate the drain valve on your water heater and connect one end of the hose there. Remember to wear the gloves. Set the other end of the hose into a large bucket or drainage ditch outside to collect the excess water and sediment. Once the hose is secure, turn the valve back on and allow the water to drain.

3. Perform the Flush Several Times

Once the water drains for a minute, go to the kitchen and run the hot water faucet for a few moments to help the tank empty. Then you can close the water supply valve again until the draining stops. You can perform the water heater flush several times. Remember to close valves on the heater before you turn the water supply back on, then run the faucet until it stops spitting air and runs smoothly before you restore the main power to the heater.

If something should go wrong and you still hear crackling or popping when you run your heater, call a water cleanup and restoration company to flush your tank professionally. If the sediment buildup is considerable, you may not be able to clear it on your own.

Maintaining your Edmond, OK home's water heater can boost its efficiency. Flushing your unit is one of the best ways to keep it operating for years of worry-free performance.

3 Ways To Protect Your Business From Fire Damage

4/19/2020 (Permalink)

Manual alarms are those that your employees can immediately pull in the event of a fire.

Three Fire Preparation Tips

A hungry fire probably isn’t part of your business plan. Follow these three fire preparation tips to reduce the risk of fire damage to your Oak Tree, OK, workplace.

1. Install Fire Alarms
Fire alarms are your business’s first line of defense in the event of a fire. It’s imperative to make sure that both automatic and manual alarms are evenly and carefully placed throughout your entire commercial property. Automatic alarms are those that are built to detect fire or smoke and sound on their own. Manual alarms are those that your employees can immediately pull in the event of a fire.

2. Invest in a Fire Suppression System
From sprinklers to foam, you have a variety of options when it comes to outfitting your building with fire suppression mechanisms. Consult your local fire department or fire damage restoration company to decide which system is best for your property and for your business’s unique needs.
Don’t forget about handheld fire extinguishers, either. Strategically placed manual extinguishers are equally important to your fire preparation plan. Be sure that all employees are trained in fire extinguisher operation.

3. Create an Evacuation Plan
In addition to making sure all employees know how to operate fire alarms and extinguishers, your disaster preparation plan should include an established escape route with which all staff members are familiar. What’s more, it’s vital that you ensure all exit routes and doors are clearly marked and free from obstructions. Doors should remain unlocked during regular business hours and feature brightly lit exit signs.
Don’t forget the back-up batteries, either. All illuminated signage should continue to work even if your building loses power, as should all automatic alarms.
Virtually no business is 100% fireproof. With careful fire preparation, however, you can significantly minimize the effect of a fire on your workplace and give yourself — and your employees — peace of mind.

3 Alternatives to Sand Bags

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

The QuickDam protects your building from flood damage

Consider The Following Four Options

When you know a storm is coming in Arcadia, OK, you only have a little bit of time to set up barriers to prevent flooding in your commercial building. The sand bag is the traditional way to prevent floodwaters from reaching your building, but there may be more efficient alternatives. Consider the following four options.

1. QuickDam

The QuickDam protects your building from flood damage by absorbing the water as it approaches the barrier. All you have to do is place the QuickDam near doors or windows, and it does the rest. As your area floods, the dam swells. After the storm is over, it dries out. You can leave it in place or move it to storage after it dries. You can purchase the QuickDam from your local hardware store in a variety of sizes, so it's easy to find one that fits your needs.

2. Instee Levee

If you know a bad storm is coming days in advance, you can build your own levee to ward off floodwaters. The Instee Levee is basically a large sand bag that is filled by a particular piece of equipment. You need a few days notice to have the equipment delivered to you.

3. Aqua Fence

The Aqua Fence can cover a large area, so if you want to keep both your property and the surrounding neighborhood safe, this is a worthwhile investment to consider. It only takes a small crew to assemble it and tear it back down after the risk of flooding has passed.

4. AquaDam

The AquaDam is similar to other flood dams except you use water instead of sand to fill up the tube. You can fill the AquaDam faster than traditional sand bags so that you need less prep time.
Storm season often leads to flooding. If you are looking at alternatives to a sand bag, there are many different options to choose from.

How to Prevent Mold in Rental Properties

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage in an Oklahoma City, OK rental property

Steps You Can Take To Help Protect Your Rental Investments

When you’re in charge of Oklahoma City, OK, rental property mold prevention can be an important maintenance step. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to help prevent mold. Here are three steps you can take to help protect your rental investments.

1. Keep the Area Dry

One of the first ways to prevent water damage which could lead to mold problems is to keep the property dry. This means if there is a leak or flooding of some kind, the water should be cleaned up as quickly as possible and the source of the moisture addressed. You may also want to ensure that your company property had a ventilation system as this can help keep the humidity down.

2. Quickly Repair Leaks

Another step toward mold prevention is to quickly repair any leaks that may occur. Water damage can increase the humidity and creating the damp environment mold thrives in. Therefore, if water damage does occur you should contact a local restoration company to help conduct repairs. These professionals can also inspect for most to help ensure that the water problems have no lead to the growth of spores in the area.

3. Take Mitigation Steps

Another way to help prevent mold growth at your place of business is to take mitigation steps. This could include repairing any water leaks quickly as water problems can lead to issues with mold, storm preparations, upgrading ventilation to help keep things dry, and regularly inspecting potential problem areas. If the company property includes landscaping you may want to include the use of deep rooted plants and slope the ground away from your business’s foundation to prevent possible flooding during a storm.
When it comes to mold prevention then steps may help you protect your business. Keep your property dry and deal with any flooding or leaks as quickly as possible. You may also want to take mitigation steps such as storm proofing, or sloping landscaping away from the building’s foundation.

Four Ways to Remove Flood Odors From Your Building

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Building affected with mold after storm damage

Keeping your commercial building in Waterloo, OK, clean can be a chore, but you want to draw customers back again, so cleanliness is important to them feeling welcome. A retail store or boutique may use scented candles or other ways to disperse pleasant aromas that keep customers coming back. Buildings containing professional offices should smell just as clean and fresh. Black mold growth can upset that balance and cause undesirable odors to take precedence.

Cause and Removal of Mold odor

If your building has been through a flood, and has not been dried out properly, the residual moisture from flood water can attract mold spores and they can flourish. You may not even realize that mold is a problem until it has already got a good hold on your building, but there are four things you can do to find and destroy moldy odors.

1. Have a flood cleanup and mold remediation service in Waterloo, OK, search out and locate the areas where mold growth is prominent.
2. As part of storm cleanup, any non-porous areas must be cleaned with detergent and disinfected.
3. Dehumidification measures should be taken to keep moisture down.
4. Non-porous materials that cannot be thoroughly cleaned of mold growth should be torn out and replaced.

Why is Drying so Important

Floods due to storms, pipe breaks or sewer backups can all cause flood damage including black mold, which is caused by humidity. In addition, sewage loss can occur when materials are contaminated with black water and any exposed materials should be thoroughly cleaned or removed and replaced. Any of these areas that are not dried completely and immediately are subject to black mold and the odor that comes with it.
Mold growth can be a direct result of improper flood cleanup and moisture removal. Do not let your building be subject to storm damage such as mold. Get the help you need to restore a clean, fresh smell to your building.

Is Category 2 Water Dangerous?

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded building in Waterloo, OK

How To Handle Water 2 Category Water In Your Building

If you’ve discovered you have a flooded building on your hands in Waterloo, OK, you might feel overwhelmed figuring out the appropriate next steps. Before entering the building yourself and trying to start a water pipe repair or address any other damage, you will need to make sure that the water is safe to come in contact with. If dealing with Category 2 water damage, there are potential risks you should be aware of as you proceed. Here is some useful information you should know on how to handle Category 2 water in your building.

How To Identify Category 2 Water Damage

While clean water that comes from a known source such as a broken pipe or water line is considered Category 1 water, Category 2 water, or “gray water”, is water that is contaminated by bacteria and viruses and can potentially cause illness. This type of water can come from the following sources:

• Discharge from appliances such as the dishwasher or washing machine
  
• Overflowing toilet water that may contain urine but no feces
  
• Sump pump failures
  
• Clean water, such as water from a water pipe repair, that sits for an extended period of time
  
• Water that rises to a higher level and comes into contact with building materials.
  
  

How To Address Category 2 Water

When dealing with any type of flooding, it is always appropriate to get in contact with a water damage restoration company. This is especially true when dealing with Category 2 water since people can possibly get sick from touching the water. Always act as quickly as possible since Category 2 water can turn into Category 3 water damage, or black water, if not cleaned up right away.
Knowing when you have category 2 water damage on your hands is very useful for keeping everyone in your building safe. Always get help, even if dealing with a clean water source such as a necessary water pipe repair, to avoid further damage or harm to people nearby.

What Happens When You Call a Restoration Company

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

While many jobs around the house may be do-it-yourself, for most homeowners, a broken pipe is when it’s time to call in the professionals.

One of the most frustrating events of a homeowner’s life may be dealing with a pipe burst cleanup. While many jobs around the house may be do-it-yourself, for most homeowners, a broken pipe is when it’s time to call in the professionals. It is advisable to contact your home insurance company to understand the scope of your options, but this is what you should expect when you make the call for help.

How Professionals Can Help

Even though plumbers can certainly assist in fixing the pipe, the problems often don’t stop there. After all, the house will probably be in need of a complete cleaning afterward to ensure the comfort and safety of the occupants. It is likely that the trained professionals will do some (or all) of the following:

1.Focus on drying. Many items may not be salvageable if they are soaked with moisture for too long. Upholstered furniture and carpets can be particularly subject to this. The professionals will do their best to dry the affected area out to preserve your possessions. This is why haste is usually of the utmost importance when dealing with a pipe burst cleanup.

2.Do a full survey of the damaged area. In order for the professionals to understand what can be saved from water damage, the damage should be completely understood. The professionals will usually use high-tech meters to gauge the amount of moisture in the affected area (both above and below ground) so they can use their expertise to the fullest extent.

3.Rid the area of potentially dangerous pathogens. A sewer cleanup company can not only rid your home of unpleasant moisture; it can also rid it of pathogens that could make your home unsafe. Once the professionals are finished with your home, it should be a safe, clean place to be.

How You Can Get Your Life Back

Dealing with a pipe burst cleanup in Edmond, OK, can be a frustrating experience. However, when you work with the professionals, you’ll likely find that your home becomes a safe, clean haven quickly in a hassle-free way. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROedmond.com/.

How to Get Rid of Bathroom Mildew

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

To mildew-clean a bathroom can be challenging, but it is not impossible by any means.

Bathroom mildew is a very common problem in Edmond, OK, and elsewhere because all that is needed to produce it is a moist environment. The good news is that a little know-how and elbow grease can take care of a mildew problem, and there is comfort in knowing that there are professionals who can mildew clean if things become serious.

Dealing With Existing Mildew Problems

There are many responses to bathroom mold, depending on where it has taken hold. Some materials can be cleaned, while others will require replacement.

• A solution of one part bleach to two parts water and a scrub brush can remove mildew from nonporous materials such as glazed tile and porcelain commonly found in toilets, sinks, and bathtubs.
• Shower curtain liners and shower curtains can be laundered with color safe bleach and rehung once completely dry.
• Grout and caulking affected by mildew will require replacement because of their porousness.
• Mildewed areas of drywall are impossible to mildew clean and will require cutting away the affected area and replacing it. 
• Carpet and padding in a bathroom will require removal and replacement once mildew has taken hold. 

Heading Off Future Mildew Problems

Mildew thrives on moisture and substances it can digest. The key to preventing this relentless microscopic organism from gaining traction is to keep surfaces as clean and dry as possible. Installing a bathroom fan will go a long way toward helping to prevent moisture from collecting. Allowing fresh air to circulate from a window can also be helpful, as can running a small dehumidifier. Experts say that a humidity level below 45% is optimal. Painting surfaces with paint containing mildewcide is a great preemptive strategy.

To mildew-clean a bathroom can be challenging, but it is not impossible by any means. Keeping things fresh and mildew-free requires the kind of everyday vigilance that any property owner knows comes with the territory.

3 Reasons To Change Your Business's Polybutylene Pipes

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Replacing outdated polybutylene pipes with durable pipes

3 Reasons To Change Your Business's Polybutylene Pipes

You may think that the pipes in your property in Oak Tree, OK, can't result in major problems in your business. However, polybutylene pipes, plastic resin pipes that were commonly installed in commercial buildings in the 1970s through the 1990s, can cause many issues in your business, and replacement is often the best solution for a variety of reasons.

1. Lack of Reliability

Continuously having to replace pipes in your building can interrupt the day-to-day happenings in your business. Plastic resin pipes are often prone to leaks and breaks. As a result, your business may flood, and the structure of your building could be affected. After such damage has occurred, it can be useful to contact emergency water damage restoration professionals. However, you can often avoid these reliability issues entirely by replacing the plastic resin pipes.

2. Poor Water Quality

Polybutylene pipes often affect a building's water quality. Today, most water contains treatments, such as chlorine, that help to boost the quality of the water. However, the plastic resin pipes often deteriorate when they come in contact with chemically treated water. As a result, the water in a building can become contaminated with chemicals from the plastic resin pipe. A new plumbing system can help to maintain the quality of the water in your building.

3. Costly To Maintain

Pipes today are considerably more durable than the plastic resin pipes that were installed in so many commercial properties years ago. Plastic resin pipes commonly require replacements since repairs are rarely possible, and replacements can be expensive. Today, many pipes are made of steel or copper and require little maintenance. As a whole, newer pipes are less expensive to maintain than plastic resin pipes.

When it comes to the pipes in your business, you want to know that they are reliable, safe and efficient. Replacing your outdated polybutylene pipes with durable pipes that won't reduce the water quality in your business and that are less expensive to maintain can be a worthwhile investment in your business.

3 Facts About Mold, Water Damage and Remediation at Your Business

4/14/2019 (Permalink)

Dealing with mold growth at your Edmond, OK business can be stressful.

When mold growth invades your Edmond, OK business, it can be difficult to know where to begin when it comes to fungi removal and the repair of the affected building material. You might be unsure about where the mold came from and why and whether you should try to clean it up on your own. Learning a few important facts about mold and its sources can help you better understand what avenues of cleanup are available to you and why calling in a professional can be important to the future of your business.

1. Understanding Mold

Before you can deal with mold and its removal, you may want to understand what it is. Unlike mildew, which grows on the surface of building materials and objects, mold grows roots into building materials, clothing and other items and cannot be wiped away. There are different species of mold, and they may all spread in different patterns and speeds depending on the events or conditions that caused them.

2. Common Mold Triggers

Most species of fungi do not require sunlight to grow. In fact, mold spores exist naturally in the air, both indoors and out, and attach to areas where there is moisture and high humidity. These conditions foster growth, which spreads the mold once it starts to feed. Larger growths may be identified by their musty odor, which is caused by a mold waste product called mycotoxin. Water leaks and floods often trigger mold growth, so it is important to have affected areas inspected after such an event.

3. Remediation and Restoration Actions

Calling in a mold remediation and removal service is a wise choice when you discover an infestation. Not only can their techs prevent further water damage in case of a flood or leak, they can also take steps to remove mold safely and make repairs so you can reopen your business as soon as possible.

Dealing with mold growth at your Edmond, OK business can be stressful. However, learning as much as you can about its presence and how to have it removed may give you peace of mind for the future.

How To Compensate for Lost Revenue

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Edmond, OK

A fire can prevent a business from operating for days or weeks. This interruption can be ruinous without interruption coverage. Business owners should consider obtaining an interruption insurance rider in addition to a commercial property insurance policy. Find out how business interruption coverage can offset revenue loss due to fire damage at a commercial structure in Edmond, OK.

Cover Continued Expenses

An interruption policy can cover expenses that continue while a business is closed for damage mitigation and restoration. These expenses may include:

• Rent
  
• Payroll
  
• Taxes
  
• Utilities
  

Factor in these costs when determining the amount of interruption insurance coverage. It is also important to calculate the average daily income of a business. These figures and the overall risk level will determine policy premiums.

Cover Lost Business

The sooner restoration starts, the sooner a business will be able to reopen. Interruption coverage can make up for revenue loss during this process. If a business can operate out of a portion of the damaged structure or a temporary location, it may not be necessary to rely on an interruption policy.

Cover Temporary Relocation

Interruption coverage may take anywhere from 48 to 72 hours to start. Business owners should determine whether a primary commercial insurance policy or this rider will cover the costs of temporary relocation. A claim that only relies on this coverage for the purposes of relocation is likely to be much lower than a claim for the full cleanup and restoration period.

According to the National Fire Protection Program, fires cost over $300 billion every year. Business owners can limit losses due to disasters with interruption insurance. It is a good idea to develop a business continuity plan and to try to lower the length and overall cost of business interruption coverage. This can be achieved by hiring fire restoration professionals and finding another way to operate during this process.

Avoid Costly Claims: Reduce Your Risk of Water Damage

12/30/2018 (Permalink)

Ceiling collapsed due to weight of water from a damaged roof in a Luther, OK business

Avoid Costly Claims

Each year, companies in the Luther, OK, area are forced to file a business claim due to water damage that, in many cases, could have been avoided. Damage can come from a number of sources, such as a pipe break, flooding due to storms, sewer backup or a broken water heater.

An average claim can run into tens of thousands of dollars, and depending upon the type of insurance, secondary damage due to mold or mildew may not even be covered. In addition, your insurance rates could increase after filing a large business claim.

Happily, there are steps you can take to help avoid this. Here are some tips:

1. Protect Pipes

Accessible or exposed pipes should be insulated to keep them from freezing. Frozen pipes can easily burst. Most hardware stores will be able to supply the correct material for insulation.

2. Keep the Building Temperature Stable

Even when the business is closed, you should always maintain a stable temperature inside the building. Keep the thermostats set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Keep Drainage Clear

Always be sure that water can drain away from the building. Keep downspouts and gutters free from debris, and make sure that any drainage areas are uncluttered.

4. Seal Leaks

Inspect foundations and exterior areas to make sure they're free of gaps or cracks. If found, seal them to prevent water seepage.

5. Protect Valuable Assets

Any items such as electrical equipment should be kept raised above floor level to protect them from flooding. Any valuables that aren't waterproof should be kept in safe place that will protect them from harm.

6. Consult with an Expert

You might want to also consult with a professional water remediation company. They can inspect your building to see if there are any hidden or overlooked problems, and offer more advice on damage prevention.

No one wants to have to file a business claim when a flood or broken pipe damages their building. Following the tips outlined above can save you a lot of trouble by preventing the harm before it has a chance to happen.

How To Prevent Water Damage During Construction

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

The contractor has a responsibility to discuss building system details and inspection concerns with the client.

Water damage can cause delays and damage on a construction site. Contractors should calculate water damage risks and perform testing at every stage of the building process. A broken pipe requiring water pipe repair or other sources of water damage can necessitate delays or rework and prove a major source of loss. It is important to take preventative measures from the planning to the finishing stages.

Before Construction Begins

Contractors should start by developing a quality assurance and control program and evaluate contract documents for the following factors:

• Backup power and pumping systems for dewatering
• Critical waterproofing systems
• Drainage plans to protect excavations or structure
• Water infiltration susceptibility

Water can penetrate through the building envelope and undermine the integrity of the structure being built. Internal releases are another common source of damage as construction proceeds. The sooner hydronic and piping systems are installed, the less likely they will be to cause damage to finished work.

During the Construction Process

A quality director and water protection team should monitor and address any problems that arise, from water pipe repair to a flooded excavation. A contractor may rely on an internal team or external subcontractors to provide the following services:

• Hydrostatically test fire protection systems and check for leakage
• Perform air pressurization testing of piping systems prior to charging with water
• Charge piping systems by zone without all valves open
• Monitor piping for at least 24 hours after charging
• Perform water-tightness testing on roof
• Complete the structure before installing finishes

The contractor has a responsibility to discuss building system details and inspection concerns with the client. They should also address all issues, including water pipe repair, in a timely manner and not allow problems to persist. This can save time and money on delays and rework. Contact a commercial restoration company located in Edmond, OK, if a finished project sustains water damage. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROedmond.com/!

3 Steps To Implement a Fire Safety Plan

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

Having a fire escape plan is crucial to the safety of your employees.

No one likes to think about their commercial property catching fire or how much restoration services may cost. Even more than that, they don't like to imagine what could go wrong if people were inside the building at the time the fire breaks out. You should think about these things, though, because having a fire escape plan for your business in Edmond, OK, could be the very thing that saves someone's life. Implementing a safety plan can be as simple as following three basic steps.

1. Map Your Routes

Most buildings have an obvious path that can get occupants outside quickly. What happens, though, if that path is blocked by the fire? A quick path is great, but you also need to map alternate routes that allow employees to exit the building safely. Chart possible routes and post them in prominent locations throughout the building to improve your emergency escape plan and the odds of everyone getting out alive.

2. Practice Your Plan

Everyone who works in your building should be familiar with how the fire alarm sounds. The American Red Cross recommends that you conduct routine fire drills to ensure that everyone knows what they are supposed to do in an emergency situation. Assess the outcome of each drill, and update your fire escape plan accordingly.

3. Keep in Contact

Once everyone has evacuated, you should have a procedure in place for confirming that everyone actually got out of the building safely. Have a common meeting place and have each person check in as soon as possible. A company roster with contact information should be stored on the cloud or in a secure online location so that it can be easily accessed from your cell phone and used to confirm the safety of those who are not physically present at the meeting site.

Having a fire escape plan is crucial to the safety of your employees. The more familiar everyone is with the plan, the more likely they are to survive a fire. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROedmond.com/.

How To Be Proactive About Plumbing Issues

6/20/2018 (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/.

Getting Ahead of Mold Damage After a Flood

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO responded to this commercial property with severe flooding.

Did you know that within 24 to 48 hours, mold can begin to grow in flood-affected areas? Mold growth happens disastrously quick when there is standing water, and even without mold, you have to worry about the proliferation of bacteria in standing water and gray water. To get ahead of mold damage, you need to have a reactive, responsive plan for restoring your commercial building in Edmond, OK.

1. Move Fast

Don’t delay cleaning up after a flood. Particularly, don’t delay cleaning up any water. Mold growth is dependent on water, and without moisture, it will have nothing to feed on. Make water removal your first step in your cleanup plan, and initiate removal as soon as your property is safe to enter.

2. Be Aggressive

You may be tempted to try milder methods, wait, and then try something more aggressive. By that time, mold has already had a chance to set in and will be even harder to get rid of. Use the most effective methods first rather than trying for something softer. As long as you aren’t damaging the interiors of your property, you’re better off going in with stronger cleansers and cleaning equipment.

3. Be Thorough

Don’t leave a single corner untouched. Nooks and crevices are places where mold thrives, and where undetected moisture can make a perfect place for mold to begin growing out of the sunlight. Check every last crack to ensure you aren’t leaving any untouched hidden areas that may lead to problems.

4. Be Safe

No matter how worried you are about mold growth, be safe when handling your flood restoration and cleaning. If you don’t trust yourself to handle the equipment and chemicals needed to appropriately siphon away water and eliminate mold, contact professionals or enlist help from others. Always make sure to work in a well-ventilated place, wear protective gear, and avoid contact with hazardous substances, black water, sharp edges, or exposed electrical wires. Visit http://www.SERVPROedmond.com for more information on commercial storm damage. 

Storm and Hail Damage

2/18/2018 (Permalink)

Roof repair or replacement is often required.

On an asphalt roof, you'll notice hail damage by the appearance of bruise, or a dark spot, where the roofing granules have been blown away. It takes great expertise to determine the right steps to fixing these issues. In some cases there may be cracking, holes, or missing shingles due to storm damage or hail damage. Split seams and missing or torn shingles are common torn after a tornado. This can result in roof leak and sever water damage, which can lead to other serious problems. In severe wind damage, it is common for shingles to be missing altogether, requiring the attention of experienced roof repair technicians.

On other roof materials, including slate, tile, metal and wood, damage can include cracked or broken shingles, missing sections of the roof, torn or split seams, and missing shingles. If a tree limb or other object has fallen onto the roof during a storm, it will cause structural damage, and roof repair professional will use extreme caution in dealing with such situation.

Reputable water restoration companies have well-trained building restoration technicians who provide quality storm remediation. Storm restoration professionals can advise owners on what to do in order to resolve situations such as water damage, flood damage, ice dam, ice damage and ice damming. Also, skilled professionals can handle the roof damage and roof leak and provide the necessary roof repair during storm remediation. 

SERVPRO of Edmond has more services. Visit www.SERVPROedmond.com for more information.

When should I call a Fire Restoration Company?

2/18/2018 (Permalink)

Call the experts right away!

After you experience fire damage, it is important to contact a restoration company right away.

A company that specializes in fire damage restoration will be able to provide you with assistance in order to help you recover from fire damage and other things such as smoke damage and soot damage. They will also help you eliminate a smoke smell and board up your property to provide needed protection.

After experiencing a fire in home or a fire in business, it is vital that you contact a company that specializes in restoration once the fire is put out by the fire department. Restoration service companies will be available to assess the property damage and perform tasks such as fire cleanup in order to help you accelerate the recover process from commercial fire damage.

SERVPRO of Edmond has more services. Visit www.SERVPROedmond.com for more information.

The Benefits of Acquiring Board-Up Services

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

When you’ve experienced a fire disaster, it can be hard to determine where to start when it comes to fire cleanup. However, having to deal with fire damage after a commercial fire in Edmond, OK, is devastating enough without the potential threat of added problems like looting. Therefore, it’s highly important that you request help from professionals who can ensure that your building stays protected while you’re away. Board-up services are designed to safeguard your property and belongings from other forces at work, whether human or environmental, and there are many benefits to acquiring these services for your commercial property.

* They help prevent vandals or thieves from entering your building. Unfortunately, there are many people who try to profit off of a disaster, and seeing an easy opening into a building through broken windows or doors is simply an invitation for these individuals. Boarding up any entrances to the property while you’re gone can keep looters at bay until you have time to get repairs completed.

* They guard against other environmental factors. If any open areas of your building are hit by a rainstorm or intense winds, you’ll be forced to contend with more than just fire damage. Filling in these areas with protective plywood helps to eliminate any chance of flooding, leaks or other mishaps that can end up saving you money for added cleanup.

* They could help you receive more coverage from your insurance company. Insurance companies often require property owners to utilize board-up services, and following their advice can help you get greater coverage if the damage is proven to be solely from the fire. Your provider is unlikely to pay for any extended damage from outside forces, and they could consider giving you less coverage overall for not following procedure.

Keep your property in Edmond, OK, protected after fire damage by preventing looting and other stressful situations. Start the fire cleanup process right by acquiring board-up services for your building.

For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROedmond.com.

RECOVERING LIFE | Local disaster recovery company announces plans to donate life saving devices to our public schools

2/13/2018 (Permalink)

In the coming weeks SERVPRO of Edmond will begin donating and installing AED devices in local schools.

February 13, 2018

SERVPRO of Edmond is pleased to announce that they will soon be helping to supply Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to local schools in need. 

“We want to help make sure that they are ready for any situation that could come up” says Lacey Davis, SERVPRO of Edmond Emergency Preparedness Specialist. 

An AED is a portable electronic device that automatically diagnoses the life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias which lead to sudden cardiac arrest. Often confused with a heart attack, sudden cardiac arrest is a serious condition that in some cases may be fatal. 

“Emergency preparedness is really the very core of our particular franchises. Through educating clients and the public about catastrophic disaster readiness to active shooter preparedness to emergency medical response, we feel that we are at least taking positive steps in the right direction regarding topics that are important to our core values as a company” said Dave Jones, President of SERVPRO of Edmond.

“Children’s safety and well being is paramount to those values in every single situation.  Anything we can do to assist with those issues is vital” says Dave Jones, SERVPRO of Edmond and President. 

The AED devices treat the conditions through defibrillation, which allows the heart to re-establish an effective rhythm. More importantly AEDs are designed to be used by a layperson through simple audio and visual commands and is taught in many first aid, certified first responder, and basic life support level cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes.

SERVPRO has franchises in South Tulsa, Stillwater/Guthrie, and Edmond, and surrounding communities. “Our mission within our three franchises is to constantly strive to educate our clients on the importance of preparedness in all situations.” 

“We continue to spend countless hours assisting our clients with individualized Emergency Ready Plans (ERP) all over the state of Oklahoma.  These Plans are tailor fit for each client per their priorities and business models” Jones said. “For instance, your local school system will have much different priorities than your local car dealership.  We can assist with any type and size of commercial business, not for profit, municipality, school system, agricultural, industrial, and residential needs to become more prepared in the case of a disaster situation.”

Schools interested in being considered for a donation or interested in an Emergency Ready Plan should contact Lacey Davis at lacey@SERVPROsouthtulsa.com or by calling (918) 437-2095. 

# # #

For further information or to request interviews:

Lacey Davis: lacey@SERVPROsouthtulsa.com

Phone: 918-437-2095 Cell: 918-515-0334

Website: www.SERVPROedmond.com

The Dangers of Frozen Pipes and Signs To Look For

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

The cold months pose special threat to your commercial property in Edmond, OK. Water damage due to broken pipes and the associated water cleanup are anything but fun to deal with. Here’s why frozen pipes are dangerous and how to know if you have a frozen pipe.

Why Are Frozen Pipes Dangerous?

A frozen pipe can potentially explode if pressure has the chance to build up. Frozen water in pipes can lead to pressure-buildup between the faucet and the blockage and cause the pipe to burst. Furthermore, if your commercial property depends on running water, a broken pipe can interfere with your day-to-day business. Additionally, if the disaster strikes while you’re away from your property, extensive damage can be the consequence. Mold only needs 24 to 48 hours to grow and spread around, meaning that water damage can quickly lead to damage from mold and mildew.

What Are the Signs of Frozen Pipes?

These are the four things that should set off your inner alarm bells:

• Temperature
• Frost
• No water
• Smell

Keep in mind that water can freeze at temperatures at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. It does not matter if you live in a cold or warm climate; if pipes are not protected, they can freeze. In fact, buildings in warm climates are oftentimes more prone to broken pipes as their pipes are usually not insulated.

Should you notice frost on any visible pipes, don’t turn on the water as this is a big warning sign. Another sign that you might have a frozen pipe is if you can get only little or no water when you turn on a faucet. An unusual smell from a pipe or drain can mean that the pipe is partially or fully blocked with ice. Reach out to a professional as soon as you notice any of these four warning signs.

Unfortunately, somethings things go wrong and water cleanup becomes necessary. Water damage from broken pipes needs to be addressed immediately. The job is best left to a cleanup company that has the tools and expertise necessary to successfully restore your property.

Visit http://www.SERVPROedmond.com for more information on commercial water damage.