What To Know About Your Smoke Alarm

8/26/2024 (Permalink)

Most homes have at least one smoke alarm installed. In fact, this important piece of equipment is required by most fire ordinances. Many fire damage restoration professionals agree that proper maintenance can help ensure the alarms in your home remain in working order. Here are some tips you may wish to know.

1. When To Replace the Alarm

A smoke detector is designed to have a long life, so you can expect yours to last for up to 10 years. Each alarm should have its manufacture date printed on the back so that you can check it if needed. If your alarm is over 10 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement.

2. When To Replace the Batteries

Many experts recommend changing the batteries in your smoke alarm at least once a year. It’s recommended to choose a consistent time every year, such as daylight savings, so that it's easier to remember to change them out. After replacing the batteries, it’s advised to hit the test button on your alarm to help ensure the appliance is in working order.

3. Where To Install the Alarm

One of the most commonly asked questions is where should alarms be installed in the home. Experts recommend installing them on every level of the home, inside each bedroom, and outside the bedrooms as well. For example, you can place a single alarm in the shared hallway outside several bedrooms with a smoke detector inside each individual bedroom. You may also want to include an alarm in your kitchen or main living area.

With the proper maintenance, your smoke alarm should stay in working condition for 10 years. Remember to replace the batteries and test the alarm regularly to help ensure functionality. It’s also a good idea to ensure that every level of your home has a working alarm along with one in each bedroom.

The 3 Signs of Mold

5/24/2024 (Permalink)

Mold is a type of fungus that develops from tiny spores that float around in the air, both indoors and outdoors. Mold is often found in humid or moist places, and if allowed to grow unchecked, it can present issues for a building. With that in mind, we offer this quick list to help you identify mold is growing in your building:

1) Musty Odor

Even if you cannot see mold, it can be in your home or business. A very common indicator of the fungus is its smell. When mold grows in an area of your building, you will notice a pungent and musty smell. Take action immediately when you notice the odor. Mold overgrowth can cost you a great deal of money and even your health. You may not be aware of the full extent of the problem until professionals check in between walls and under floors.

2) The Appearance of Mold

Mold may look like cotton, granules, or leather. It can appear in various colors like white, green, gray, black, brown, or yellow. Unfortunately, many people ignore small mold and mistake it for soot or ordinary dirt. Take immediate action when you see tiny discolored and fuzzy growth on furnishings or the surface of building materials.

3) Water Leaks

If you notice water leaks from ceiling pipes, water stains, or standing water, mold might become an issue. Water leaks cause moisture, and that provides an excellent growing place for mold. Check for discoloration or watermarks on carpets, walls, and other materials for hidden mold.

Any business or home can face a fungus fiasco. If you suspect that you have a mold problem, SERVPRO® can inspect the property. Mold remediation is one of our specialties and we can eliminate the issue safely. We also invest in state-of-the-art equipment and continuous training that ensures your home or business is quickly and efficiently restored.

Give us a call today!

What To Do When You Have Water Damage

4/19/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can wreak havoc on your home or property. Water damage can occur from burst pipes, leaking roofs, storms, floods, and hurricanes. The consequences can be devastating, leading to structural damage, mold growth, and potential health hazards. 

When facing these situations, it is best to contact a restoration company such as SERVPRO®. However, here are some simple actions you can take while you wait on a SERVPRO® team to arrive at your home. 

Turn off the Power 

Attempt to safely switch off the electricity and gas to avoid electrocution and gas leaks. If unable to do so due to an extensive amount of water in the home, wait for a SERVPRO® team to arrive and cut the power off. 

Locate and Stop the Water Source

Identify where the water is coming from. If it is coming from a burst pipe or leaking appliance, turn off the water supply to prevent further flooding. 

If the source of the water is external, such as a storm or flooding, do your best to divert or contain the water from further damaging your home and furniture. 

Remove Excess Water

Use pumps, wet/dry vacuums, buckets, or towels to remove as much water as possible from the affected area. The faster you can extract the water, the better chance you have of preventing further damage and mold growth.  

Move Belongings Out of Water

To prevent further damage to your furniture, move them to another room that is dry. If you have heavy furniture that you are unable to lift and move around, wait for a SERVPRO® team to arrive to assist with moving the furniture. 

SERVPRO® also specializes in restoring any piece of furniture that has been damaged during the disaster. 

Call your Insurance Company

Once you have done all the above, now is the time to contact your insurance company and investigate what is covered in terms of water damage. Document the damage thoroughly and file a claim with your insurance as soon as possible in order for you to get reimbursed for the costs of mitigation. 

Dealing with water damage is a long and stressful process. Luckily, SERVPRO® is available 24/7 with a team of certified professionals who are equipped with advanced equipment to resolve disasters like these. 

SERVPRO®, the only restoration company that makes “Like it never even happened” happen. 

Central Park West Commercial Water Damage Restoration Project: A Comprehensive Overview

8/3/2023 (Permalink)

Our Disaster Recovery Team can respond to commercial water damage projects nationwide!

The Central Park West Commercial Water Damage Restoration Project stands as a testament to the expertise and efficiency of SERVPRO Team Bisig. Faced with a catastrophic scenario after Hurricane Ida's fury, the team managed to turn the tide in a situation that could have been detrimental for this high-end apartment complex. Here's a detailed look at the challenges, actions, and outcomes of this massive restoration project.

The Challenge: A Disaster Unleashed by Hurricane Ida

Hurricane Ida will be remembered for its destructive force, and the Central Park West apartment complex faced the brunt of it. The subway system below the building became flooded, resulting in a rupture of the concrete slab that formed the basement's foundation. The entire basement area, spanning an incredible 60,000 sq ft, was filled with water. The potential damage was not only to the structure but also to the electrical systems and other vital components housed in the basement.

Immediate Response: Mobilizing SERVPRO Team Bisig

Time was of the essence, and SERVPRO Team Bisig was mobilized quickly to assess and contain the situation. The team's first priority was to stabilize the building to prevent any further structural damage. This involved pumping out the floodwaters and taking measures to ensure that the integrity of the foundation was maintained.

Water Damage Restoration: A Multifaceted Approach

The water damage restoration process was complex and multifaceted. It involved:

1. Water Extraction: Industrial pumps and vacuum units were used to remove thousands of gallons of water.
2. Structural Drying: Specialized equipment was utilized to dry the structure completely, including the use of dehumidifiers and air movers.
3. Decontamination: The floodwater had brought contamination into the building. Thorough cleaning and sanitization were essential to prevent health hazards.
4. Concrete Slab Repair: The rupture of the concrete slab required skilled engineering to repair and reinforce.
5. Electrical and Mechanical Systems Restoration: The water had affected the basement's electrical and mechanical systems. These were carefully restored to full functionality.
6. Interior Restoration: Some of the interior finishes and components needed repair or replacement, including walls, floors, and fittings.

Financial Overview: A Project Worth $2.5 Million

The total cost of this restoration project reached $2.5 million. This figure reflects not only the magnitude of the damage but also the comprehensive approach taken to restore the building to its preloss condition. Insurance and financial arrangements were handled with professionalism and efficiency.

The Outcome: Success Against the Odds

The Central Park West Commercial Water Damage Restoration Project was completed successfully, with the building restored to its former glory. Residents were able to return to their homes, and the potential long-term damage was averted.

Conclusion: SERVPRO Team Bisig - A Name to Trust

The restoration of the Central Park West apartment complex underscores SERVPRO Team Bisig's expertise in commercial water damage restoration. Their ability to respond swiftly, mobilize resources, and execute a restoration plan with precision makes them a trusted name in the industry.

For those in need of water damage restoration services, whether due to a natural disaster or other causes, SERVPRO Team Bisig is ready to assist. Their commitment to excellence ensures that even the most challenging situations can be handled with professionalism and care.

Get Disaster-Ready with SERVPRO's ERP: A Must-Have for Every Property Owner

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

Our ERP Program can protect your business from unexpected disaster here in Buford, GA. Whether it's water, fire, wind, or mold, we're here to help.

Dealing with an unexpected disaster can be daunting. It brings chaos, panic, and uncertainty. But wouldn't it be comforting to have a go-to plan in place? That's exactly what we offer at SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill with our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) program.

Understanding SERVPRO's ERP

The ERP, or Emergency Ready Profile, is a strategic tool developed by SERVPRO to assist property owners in planning for unforeseen disasters. Think of it as a quick reference guide for your property, filled with critical information you need during an emergency.

Why an ERP is Essential

An emergency isn't the time to start figuring out who to call or where your main water shut-off is. Time is of the essence when disaster strikes. Your ability to respond quickly can mean the difference between minor damage and major disaster. The ERP provides all the vital details such as shut-off valve locations, critical areas of your property, and essential contact information. It allows you to act promptly, mitigating damage and reducing downtime.

Getting Started with an ERP

Setting up an ERP with SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill is simple and free. Here's what the process entails:

1. Evaluation: We perform a free assessment of your property to document its unique features.
2. Profile Development: We create a detailed profile document containing all essential information needed in an emergency.
3. Strategy Formulation: We help you develop a strategic plan for various emergency situations to minimize property damage and business interruption.
4. Training: We ensure that you and your team know how to access and use the ERP.
5. Accessibility: Your ERP is available online or via the SERVPRO Ready Plan mobile app, which is accessible on iOS and Android devices.

Experience Peace of Mind with SERVPRO's ERP

An ERP from SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill does more than prepare you for a disaster; it gives you peace of mind. It assures you that you're equipped to handle any emergency effectively and efficiently.

Equip Yourself with SERVPRO's ERP

Don't let an unexpected disaster catch you off guard. Be ready with SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile. Contact our SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill team today at (770) 945-5355 to schedule your free ERP consultation. It's not about waiting for a disaster; it's about being ready when it strikes. Let us help you ensure it’s "Like it never even happened."

Navigating Insurance Claims for Water Damage: Expert Tips and Tricks

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill is available 24/7/365 to respond to your emergency flood removal and water damage cleanup needs.

Dealing with water damage can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Whether it's due to flooding, a burst pipe, or a leaking roof, water damage can wreak havoc on your property, possessions, and peace of mind. One of the critical aspects of handling water damage is navigating the insurance claims process. Knowing what to expect and how to maximize your claim can make a significant difference in your recovery. With many years of experience serving Buford, Suwanee, Hamilton Mill and surrounding areas, we wrote this blog to provide expert tips and tricks on navigating insurance claims for water damage. This way, you can secure the compensation you deserve while ensuring a smooth claims process.

Understanding Your Insurance Policy

The first step in navigating insurance claims for water damage is understanding your insurance policy. It's crucial to be familiar with the terms and conditions, as well as the extent of coverage provided. Some policies cover water damage from sudden and accidental events, while others exclude specific causes such as flooding. Here are a few tips to help you understand your policy:

1. Review your policy documents and declarations page, which will outline your coverage limits and deductibles.
2. Identify the specific perils covered and any exclusions, paying close attention to water damage-related incidents.
3. Contact your insurance agent or company if you have any questions or need clarification about your coverage.

Documenting the Damage and Initiating the Claim

Once you have a clear understanding of your policy and coverage, it's time to document the damage and initiate your claim. Proper documentation is crucial in ensuring that your claim is processed accurately and efficiently. Follow these steps for documenting the damage:

1. Take photographs and videos of the affected areas and any damaged items. Be thorough and capture images from different angles to provide a comprehensive visual record.
2. Create a detailed inventory of damaged items, including their age, purchase price, and replacement cost.
3. Keep receipts and invoices for any expenses related to the water damage, such as temporary accommodations or emergency repairs.

After documenting the damage, contact your insurance company to initiate the claim process. Be prepared to provide the necessary information, including the cause of the water damage, the extent of the damage, and your policy number.

Working with Commercial Restoration Services

In many cases, the best way to address water damage is by working with professional commercial restoration services. These experts have the knowledge, experience, and equipment needed to effectively mitigate and repair water damage. When selecting a water damage restoration company, consider the following:

1. Choose a reputable company with experience in handling insurance claims like SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill. We can help you navigate the claims process and work directly with your insurer.
2. Verify that the company is licensed, insured, and certified by industry organizations such as the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Our technicians are trained through industry leading IICRC programs for your peace of mind.
3. Request references and read reviews to ensure the company has a track record of success in water damage restoration. With over 150+ 5 star google reviews, our team has a track record of success that you can trust.

Involving commercial restoration services early in the process can expedite the insurance claim and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome. These professionals can provide detailed estimates, documentation, and evidence to support your claim, ensuring you receive fair compensation.

Conclusion

Navigating insurance claims for water damage can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and assistance from professional commercial restoration services, you can successfully secure the compensation you deserve. By understanding your policy, documenting the damage, and working with experienced water damage restoration experts like our SERVPRO team, you can minimize the stress and financial burden associated with water damage recovery.

In case you need help with your water damage restoration project, give us a call at (770) 945-5355. We’re always here to help!

The Link Between Water Damage and Indoor Air Quality: Tips to Protect Your Health

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill successfully completed this commercial mold remediation in Buford, GA. Call us if you need mold removal!

Water damage can have severe consequences on your property and belongings, but one often overlooked aspect is the impact on indoor air quality. Poor air quality resulting from water damage can lead to numerous health issues and discomfort for occupants. In this blog post, we will explore the link between water damage and indoor air quality, and share tips on how to protect your health. We'll also discuss how SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill can help you tackle these issues efficiently and effectively.

How Water Damage Affects Indoor Air Quality

Water damage creates the perfect environment for various contaminants to thrive, which can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. Some of the most common problems arising from water damage include:

1. Mold growth: Mold thrives in damp conditions and can begin to grow within 24-48 hours after water intrusion. Mold spores can become airborne, potentially leading to respiratory issues, allergies, and even more severe health problems.
2. Bacteria and viruses: Water damage, especially from sources like sewage backups or floodwaters, can introduce harmful microorganisms into your living space, contaminating the air.
3. Unpleasant odors: Musty odors are common after water damage, resulting from mold growth and the breakdown of organic materials.

Health Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality

Although scientists are still studying the effects of poor air quality on health, some cases have shown that exposure to poor indoor air quality due to water damage can result in various health issues. These can range from mild discomfort to more severe conditions. Some of the potential health effects include:

• Respiratory problems: Mold spores, bacteria, and other contaminants can irritate the respiratory system, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
• Allergic reactions: Exposure to mold and other allergens can trigger allergic reactions, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
• Asthma exacerbation: Individuals with asthma may experience worsened symptoms due to poor indoor air quality.
• Infections: In some cases, exposure to harmful microorganisms can result in infections, particularly for individuals with weakened immune systems.

Tips to Protect Your Health and Improve Indoor Air Quality

To protect your health and improve indoor air quality after water damage, consider the following tips:

1. Act quickly: Address water damage as soon as possible to minimize the growth of mold and other contaminants.
2. Control humidity: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to discourage mold growth and improve overall air quality.
3. Ensure proper ventilation: Make sure your home is well-ventilated to help remove moisture and contaminants from the air.
4. Use air purifiers: Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture airborne particles and improve indoor air quality.
5. Regularly clean and maintain your HVAC system: This will ensure that it is not spreading contaminants throughout your home.

How SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill Can Help

SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill is a trusted provider of water damage restoration and indoor air quality improvement services. Our team of expert water damage restoration technicians is equipped to handle all aspects of water damage recovery and can help you safeguard your health. Some of the benefits of working with SERVPRO include:

• 24/7 rapid emergency service: We aim to be faster to any size disaster. So, fast response is crucial in mitigating water damage, and our SERVPRO team is available around the clock to assist you.
• Highly trained technicians: SERVPRO's professionals are IICRC certified and receive ongoing training to stay updated on the latest techniques and technologies.
• Advanced equipment: SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment for water extraction, drying, dehumidification, and air purification to ensure a thorough and efficient restoration process.

Conclusion

Water damage can have a significant impact on indoor air quality, potentially leading to various health issues for occupants. By acting quickly, controlling humidity, ensuring proper ventilation, and using air purifiers, you can minimize these risks and protect your health. Trust SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill to provide expert water damage restoration and indoor air quality improvement services. Their team of professionals, available 24/7, will work diligently to help you recover from water damage and restore a healthy living environment.

What to Know About Weather Alerts To Keep Your Home Stay Safe | SERVPRO® of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

If you suspect any damage to your home from a recent storm, call SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill.

Commercial Systems Prone to Water Damage: SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill is ready for whatever happens! We'll restore your business after any size of property damage.

Commercial properties present unique risks when it comes to water damage in Dacula, GA. Unlike residential homes, which are usually one story and have easily accessible crawl spaces and attics, commercial buildings can be many stories high with flat roofs and multiple storefront windows. They also often have expensive specialized equipment that can be very costly to repair or replace if damaged by water. In this blog post, we will discuss the different parts of a commercial building that are at risk for water damage, as well as some tips on how to prevent it.

Plumbing Systems

The first and most obvious risk for water damage in a commercial property is the plumbing system. Because commercial buildings have more bathrooms, kitchens, and other water-using fixtures, they also have larger and more complex plumbing systems. These systems are often located in hard-to-reach places, making them difficult to repair if they spring a leak.

One of the main water damage challenges according to The Hartford Insurance is an improperly maintained sprinkler system. By law, most commercial buildings must have a fire sprinkler system, but many building owners forget to regularly maintain and test these systems. While a well-maintained fire sprinkler system can help prevent extensive fire damage in the event of a fire, improper maintenance or disaster planning can cause extensive water damage that can flood multiple floors.

Another plumbing risk is burst pipes. Commercial buildings, especially high rises tend to run at a higher pressure than residential buildings. Therefore, a burst pipe has the potential to release significantly more water than a home.

One of the ways in which we help commercial property owners prevent catastrophic property damage before it happens is through our app-based Emergency Response Planning program (ERP).

Roofing Systems

In addition to the plumbing system, there are a number of exterior commercial building components that can experience water damage. One of the most common is the flat roof. Because flat roofs are not sloped like traditional pitched roofs, they tend to pool water instead of shedding it. This can lead to leaks and eventually, if left unaddressed, major water damage.

Some common commercial roofing systems include:

• Built-up Roofing (BUR): Often called tar and gravel roofs, these commercial roofing systems are built with a semi-continuous membrane installed in layers, then covered in aggregate. While they are usually simple to maintain, best practices suggest inspecting the roof for deterioration and possible leak points at least twice yearly.
• Thermoplastic Single-Ply Membrane Roofing (PVC & TPO): These roofs are installed in large rolls that are then welded together at the seams with heat. The material is very durable and oil-resistant. However, the heat-welding methods require skilled installation, which can lead to weak points and leak-prone areas if not performed correctly.
• EPDM Roofing: Some roofers call these "rubber roofs" because the material they are made of, ethylene propylene diene monomer is very rubber-like. This kind of roof is derived from oil and natural gas, and appears dark gray or black. When installed correctly and with the highest thickness available, this type of commercial roof will last a very long time with little to no issues. Unless you experience storm damage in your area, an annual check for leaks around the roof penetrations should suffice.

Window Systems

Commercial window systems are built for durability and use, however, they can often present a unique water damage challenge for commercial facilities. Most aluminum glazing systems aren't intended to be 100% waterproof. Most commercial window systems are meant to limit water penetration during extreme circumstances while also weeping water back out to the exterior.

By directing all moisture to the sill flashing, storefront systems limit water penetration. It's critical that the sill flashing be installed correctly in order to avoid water damage. Making sure that sealant is put on the top of the rear leg before installing the sill is one of the most important aspects of a good installation.

The most essential aspect of maintaining water penetration with a storefront is end dam fastening and sealing. Water will enter the building through the jamb locations if end dams are not properly fastened and sealed. Improperly (or missing) end dams can cause significant water damage to the interior drywall or flooring around commercial storefront windows.

Like anything else in a building, time and the elements can cause wear and tear and failure of these commercial window water control systems.

Commercial Water Damage Inspection Services

So if you notice moisture or water damage around your storefront windows, you should consider calling SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill to inspect for potential water damage issues. Our technicians are trained to identify, troubleshoot, and restore all types of commercial water issues.

Call today to schedule your commercial service!

(770) 945-5355

Tips to Stay Safe during Fire Damage: SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

no matter how serious your property damage may be, SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill is your local fire damage expert. Call today!

It's that time of year again - fire season in Sugar Hill, GA and surrounding areas. Between February and May, the weather gets hotter and drier, while the risk of house fires rises. A fire may start from a variety of sources, ranging from a faulty wire to an overloaded outlet to a kitchen mishap to a bonfire left unattended. It's critical to know how to react quickly and effectively if your home catches fire.

Here's What You Need To Know If A Fire Starts: 

The first line of defense against a house fire is to know how to use the proper fire extinguisher for the situation. This simple procedure can help save lives and hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage. If the fire spreads uncontrollably, evacuate immediately and stay away, then call 9-1-1. Leave all of your belongings where they are and save yourself and your loved ones.

If your clothing ignites, remember the old adage: Stop, Drop, and Roll.

It's critical to utilize the stairs if you live in a building with elevators in case of a fire. The elevator electrical system may be damaged by a fire, causing the shaft to operate like a chimney and rapidly fill up with deadly fumes.

Doors may be used to your advantage in a fire, potentially saving your life. If the doorknob or handle is hot, don't open it. If you can't exit through the primary route, look for another option. Do not open any doors that are warm to the touch.

Close any doors that might obstruct your exits, lay a wet towel beneath the doors, and call the fire department or 9-1-1 if flames, heat, or fire block your avenues of escape. Tell them exactly where you are so they can find you.

If you're near a window that you can't use as an escape, open it and wave a brightly colored cloth or use your phone flashlight to signal for help.

What To Do After a Fire

After a fire, it is important to contact a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill. We have the training, experience, and equipment to properly restore your home - "Like it never even happened."

If you try to clean up the fire damage yourself, you could end up making the situation worse both in your home and with your insurance company's process.

Trust the experts, and call today!