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."

3 Criteria for Becoming a Preferred Vendor

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Hiring a preferred vendor can save you time and money in the long run.

3 Requirements to Become a Preferred Vendor

When your home in Dacula, GA, is damaged, your insurance agent is going to be one of the first people you call, and a qualified repair company will likely be the next. To ensure that your claim is processed as quickly as possible, it is a good idea to work with one of your insurance company’s preferred vendors. There are several criteria that claims adjusters use to evaluate mitigation companies.

1. Impeccable Record-Keeping

Your adjuster may assess the damage in your home, but when you file the claim, it is important to have an assessment from certified remediation experts. The Claims Information Center at SERVPRO documents everything your insurance company needs to know, including:

• Cause of damage
  
• Extent of damage
  
• Estimated repair cost
  
• Response time
  
  

These details are documented electronically and made available for fast release to those who need them. This helps your insurance agent expedite the processing of your claim.

2. IICRC Certification

Your insurance company has a vested interest in ensuring that the restoration to your home is done correctly the first time. Shoddy work can result in more claims filed in the future to repair secondary damage. A vendor that is IICRC certified has the training and experience necessary to provide quality service. Certification indicates to the insurance company that the vendor’s work can be trusted.

3. Referral Guidelines

A mitigation company’s reputation depends on the work of its franchises. In order to receive referrals from the company, a SERVPRO franchise must meet more than 20 guidelines. A company that holds each branch that bears its name to the same high standard is more likely to be an attractive candidate for a vendor program with your insurance company.

Your insurance agent can recommend a mitigation company in your area that is likely to provide you the best service at a reasonable cost. Hiring a preferred vendor can save you time and money in the long run.

SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill - Proud to be awarded

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Expertise.com Award for excellent service

A water-related disaster in your home or business in Buford, GA is stressful, no matter the size. While you might hope that this would never happen to you, the truth is that it happens more than you think. If your home or business has ever experienced water damage or if you know someone who has, you’re likely well aware of how much damage even minor flooding can cause—and how long it can take to restore things back to normal.

The Award: Water Damage Restoration Services in Buford, GA

Our Water Damage Specialists use advanced water restoration techniques. So if you need help with everything from unclogging a drain, to restoring your home after a second-story toilet overflow, we have the capacity to do it. We specialize in removal and extraction, drying and dehumidification, cleaning and repair, and restoration services, for residential and commercial properties alike.

Our commitment to quality of service and workmanship has earned us an A+ rating from Expertise.com.

Water Removal and Extraction

When water damage occurs, it’s important to start by removing and extracting as much of that water as possible. If not taken care of quickly and properly, water can lead to more extensive – and expensive – problems later on. At SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill, we offer a variety of services that include water removal and extraction. Our teams can handle everything from small leaks in your basement or garage to large-scale disasters such as floods caused by storms, wind, or hurricanes.

Drying and Dehumidification

For a water damage restoration company, drying and dehumidification are crucial steps in a restoration project. If water is left sitting in a home or business, mold will begin to grow and spread—destroying walls, floors, and furniture in its path. Our SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill technicians make sure that atmospheric humidity levels are contained to 30-60% relative humidity and salvageable materials are dried and cleaned to preloss conditions before beginning the next steps in our water damage restoration process.

Restoration Services

Here at SERVPRO, we know that you don’t want to repair your home; you want it restored. Our water restoration technicians will work with you and your insurance company (if applicable) throughout every step of restoring your property to its preloss condition. We understand how stressful and frustrating water damage can be – but we also know that our dedication and expertise will help minimize stress and bring closure during a very difficult time in your life.

Call us today at (770) 945-5355 for 24/7/365 service. We are Here to Help.

We’re Ready Around the Clock | SERVPRO® of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

Photo of a Fire Damaged Kitchen

If you remember rotary phones in homes and “blue light specials” at the local big-box store, then it’s likely you’re old enough to remember a time when we did much more of something we hardly ever have to do now: waiting.

Remember sitting in a doctor’s office with nothing to do but twiddle your thumbs or check out a three-year-old magazine? Now you can video chat with your physician from home while you play video games in the background.

So much of our lives is instant now, and that’s a good thing—especially when it comes to the urgency of home damage. If something happens in the night or on a weekend to create an acute need for service, you shouldn’t have to wait. And with SERVPRO’s world-class, 24-hour emergency services, you won’t have to.

Fast service and quick action matter, and here’s why.

After a fire. Fire does much damage in the immediate, that’s plain to see. But soot, the sneaky discharge created when combustion goes uncompleted, works behind the scenes to create even more damage, and it starts only minutes after the fire.

Soot and smoke combine to create stains and smells for which there is a very limited window for repair. Once that window passes, the only recourse is to completely reconstruct affected walls to get rid of them. It’s doable, of course, but having SERVPRO on the scene right away will save you time, money and smelly clothes.

After water damage. It’s hard to miss the puddled water and dripping after a burst pipe, but it’s easy to overlook the fact that 48 hours after water comes in contact with your surfaces, mold starts growing. Mold growth presents a threat to both your health and, eventually, even the structure of your home. The faster your home can be dried and dehumidified, the better off you’ll be.

If storms or natural disasters happen in the night or on the weekend, you’ve got a sudden, acute need, and you shouldn’t have to wait until 9 a.m. the next business day to get help. When time is of the essence, we’re ready to act.

You shouldn’t have to wait for help, and when you link up with us, you won’t. Trust the team that’s Faster to Any Size Disaster. Trust SERVPRO.

When you need help after a home or business disaster, fast service is a priority, and there’s nobody faster or more prepared than SERVPRO. Call us anytime to take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service.

Four Tips for Avoiding Cigarette Fires at Home

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

Take Your Smoking Outside.

For many years, the cigarette fire has been a top culprit in home fires. Across the country, this has led to more than $400 million in property damage for homeowners. These may be frightening facts, but there is good news: it's easy to avoid cigarette and ashtray fires.

Pay Attention to Your Cigarette

It's easy to leave a smoldering butt in the ashtray or toss a partially extinguished cigarette into the trash can. When you're finished smoking, make sure the cigarette is completely put out, run it under water, or put it into sand. Cheap ashtrays are sometimes risky, but a top-quality ashtray is likely to prevent an ashtray fire.

Understand E-Cigarette Risks

If you prefer e-cigarettes, it's still important to pay attention to the device. It is possible for fires or explosions to occur. Avoid e-cigarette fires by charging the device with its own charger (not a tablet or phone charger) and don't charge it overnight. If the e-cigarette gets wet, allow plenty of time for it to dry, and then replace the batteries. Protect your kit from high temperatures and keep loose batteries separate from the e-cigarette during storage.

Take Your Smoking Outside

The safest way to avoid a cigarette fire is to step outside while smoking. The main cause of cigarette-related fires in the home is smoking on furniture, generally on the bed or the couch. People often fall asleep with their lit cigarette and then drop it onto sheets, blankets, pillows, or upholstery. Even outside, it's important to have a safe place to smoke. Invest in a good-qualityf outdoor ashtray and keep it away from flammable tools and gardening products.

Don't Smoke After Taking Medication

If you're using any medication that makes you drowsy or absent-minded, don't smoke. If a fire does start, you may not be able to escape from the flames and smoke. Other medical products, such as medical oxygen, are likely to explode if a flame or spark is present.
Rest Haven, GA, experts who tackle fire cleanup may have other tips to help you avoid the most common causes of home fires. Learn more to protect your home and family from a cigarette fire.

What Makes SERVPRO the Best Choice for Your Restoration Needs?

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Trailer Mount Restoration Equipment at a Large Loss Restoration Project

We know there are many choices out there when it comes to restoring your home, business, or facility after a property damage event. While there are many options, choosing the wrong restoration company can cause headaches and stress through a restoration project that can last for many years even after the project is completed. Whether its water, fire, wind, or mold damage, see why we are the best choice for your peace of mind during and after you experience a property loss.

We Carefully Follow Industry Protocols

The IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration), is a world-renowned global certification and standard-setting organization for our restoration industry. Since 1972, they have successfully established protocols and procedures that help ensure the utmost quality in any restoration project done by IICRC certified firms and professionals. SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill ensures each of its field technicians is trained according to IICRC standards, so you can have peace of mind knowing your restoration project will be completed to the highest level of quality and efficiency.

Extensive Network of Subcontractors

Our licensed subcontractors specialize in reconstruction, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and asbestos abatement. Which enables us to provide full-service restoration services during your mitigation and reconstruction project. All subcontractors are carefully vetted, and skill tested before they ever visit a jobsite. That way, you know your project is in excellent hands from beginning to end.

Proven Project Expertise

Since 1998, we have completed many thousands of commercial and government projects. As a learning organization, we are focused on continual growth and improvement as well. So with our extensive project experience and many 5-star reviews on Google, you can trust that SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill will bring the knowledge and experience you can trust to your fire, water, wind, or mold restoration project. No project is too large or too small for our team.

Large Inventory of Equipment

From Air Movers to industrial-grade dehumidifiers, air scrubbers to generators, our team has the right equipment for any size job. Combined with the latest monitoring equipment technology available, you can rest assured that your large loss will be in the best hands. Not only is our restoration equipment inventory extensive, but we also maintain strict maintenance schedules for every piece of equipment that enters or exits our over 100,000 SF facility.

Beyond Standard Dedication to Quality

We understand the hardship and stress that can come with a property loss event. That is why we are dedicated to ensuring a smooth restoration process for you in your restoration project with clear and consistent communication from start to finish. That commitment to providing a high-class restoration experience extends to how we maintain our equipment and facility as well. Every piece of equipment that returns from a project is carefully taken apart, cleaned, inspected, and rebuilt to effectively prevent cross-contamination from project to project while ensuring efficient operations so you can get your property back "Like it never even happened."

See for yourself why SERVPRO is the number 1 name in the property restoration industry. Call us today at (770) 945-5355 for 24/7/365 assistance.

What To Do After Your Upstairs Bathroom Floods

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Certified experts can clean your building out and rebuild it when this happens.

One of your employees reports water spots forming on the ceiling underneath one of the restrooms on the floor above. What do you do when an upstairs bathroom in your building in Buford, GA, floods the floor below? Of course, you want to call remediation experts, but there are things you can do before they arrive to minimize the sewer damage.

Before Experts Arrive

If a flooded toilet is leaking through the ceiling below it, the leak isn't going to slow down until the water from the toilet stops flowing. You also want to make sure that your employees are safe. There are a few things you can do to halt the damage and protect your people:

• Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
• Turn off electricity to the areas on both floors.
• Remove water or block off the area to contain it.

Turning off the water and the electricity make the area safer. Starting to remove water from the area keeps the sewer damage contamination from spreading.

After Experts Arrive

Once the technicians from the sewage company show up to begin remediation, they take over the situation. They will likely start by extracting the rest of the water. Then they tear out all the ruined materials, such as ceiling tiles, insulation, and flooring that was compromised by the flooded toilet. To avoid mold growth, they will completely dry everything out and disinfect it so that no bacteria becomes embedded in the adjacent flooring or ceiling tiles. After everything is dry and clean, the restoration process starts. A new ceiling and floor can be installed, and the restoration technicians often match them to the existing materials.

When a toilet overflows and floods not only the floor of the bathroom where it is but also the floor below it, there is likely going to be sewer damage that needs to be remediated. Certified experts can clean your building out and rebuild it when this happens.

The Steps of the Clean Water Mitigation Process

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

Even if your damage is a case of pipe burst cleanup, it's best to take care of it as soon as possible.

Finding out that you need water cleanup in your commercial building in Buford, GA, is never fun. If you must require the services of water mitigation specialists, however, clean water remediation is usually the least problematic. Here are the steps you can expect the technicians to follow during pipe burst cleanup.

1. Initial Consultation

As soon as you call, the representative on the other end of the line may ask questions designed to get to the root of the problem. This helps the company plan which equipment to bring to your building and can make the process flow more smoothly.

2. On-Site Assessment

The real plan is formed when technicians arrive at your property. They inspect the building and determine a course of action. They may also provide emergency services, such as shutting the water or power off to the area if you have not already done so.

3. Water Extraction

Using industrial pumps, the professionals remove water from the area. The sooner the pipe burst cleanup begins, the less likely you are to experience secondary damage, so it's imperative that as much water is removed as quickly as possible.

4. Surface Drying

To prevent mold, everything must be dried. Dehumidifiers tame the moisture in the air; fans and wet vacuums pull water out of fabrics and off surfaces.

5. Restoration Process

Even if the water damage is a result of a supply line breaking, that doesn't automatically mean the damage wasn't extensive. Walls and insulation, as well as ceiling tiles and flooring, may still have to be removed and discarded. The restoration experts then replace them and try to make sure wallpaper, paint or tiles match up before the job is done.

Even if your damage is a case of pipe burst cleanup, it's best to take care of it as soon as possible. By mitigating clean water damage quickly, you can avoid secondary damage and get back in your building.

The Advantages of Professional Mold Testing

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Black mold damage behind a wall

A patch of mold on the wall or a musty odor in your home is a sign that you need mold remediation. When this happens, many homeowners in Suwanee, GA will purchase mold testing kits from the local hardware store. Unfortunately, these kits don't reveal the information mold remediation specialists need to address the problem. Only a test from a certified environmental hygienist yields accurate results.

Type of Test

DIY mold tests simply indicate that there is mold in your home, but that doesn't really give you any new information. There are always mold spores in the air because they travel in from outside on clothing, hair, shoes and pets. However, a professional hygienist can get a useful reading with several types of surface tests:

• Bulk samples
• Swab samples
• Tape samples
  

During mold testing, the hygienist may also take air quality samples using spore traps. No matter how the data is gathered, however, it is then sent to a lab for investigation to better inform the mitigation process.

Mitigation Process

While a mold kit only reveals the presence of spores, a professional test is more conclusive. Once the type, location and concentration level of the mold problem is discovered, technicians can seal off the affected area and start mitigation. They remove all material that has too much mold damage to be salvaged. Then they clean and dry the area to prevent mold from returning. When the process is complete, it's a good idea to have the environmental hygienist conduct post-testing to verify that the mold problem has been resolved.
When you suspect that you have a mold problem in your home, it is natural to want to save money conducting your own test. Unfortunately, the DIY kits are typically a waste of money because they don't tell you what you need to know. Professional mold testing necessary to get an accurate reading of the whole scope of the issue.

The Importance of Corporate Resources After a Large Disaster

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

In a major flooding event, local franchises can become overwhelmed.

The Importance of Corporate Resources After a Large Disaster

Many disasters are simply local events that impact one or two companies. These situations include localized storm issues, a company fire, or a broken plumbing system in a school or office. Other times, though, a disaster impacts a much wider area with many companies and homeowners suffering a catastrophic loss all at once. The California wildfires are a good example of this widespread damage, as are the recent floods of Midland, Michigan caused by a dam breach. At this time, the 1,700 SERVPRO franchises that operate across North America often pool their resources to help the wider community. This allows more people to be helped in a timely fashion.

Corporate Strength

In a major flooding event, local franchises can become overwhelmed. When hundreds of homes and businesses are instantaneously dealing with flooded properties, only so many can be helped by the franchises in Buford, GA. By bringing in other professional restoration service franchises, the following benefits result:

• Additional equipment
• More workers
• More expertise
• Faster response times
• Reduced damages
  

Overall, this results in a smaller catastrophic loss for the impacted community. A multitude of crews coming together means critical issues can be addressed without delays. More specialized equipment on hand enables crews to pump out standing water, dry out flooded areas of buildings and respond to dangerous situations.

Local Knowledge

In coordination with local resources, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team mobilizes as needed to help with widespread storm damage and other issues. This has been a successful model to help devastated communities recover from large-scale events for many years. Communities across North America have benefitted from this pooling of valuable resources of equipment and knowledge. Whether it is a large hurricane along the coast or major flooding in the heartland, communities can count on a robust response from professionals.
A catastrophic loss can be minimized by a coordinated response. Local knowledge and corporate strength is a potent combination for handling disasters.

How To Find Mold Even If You Can't See It

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Mold remediation services in Buford, GA

Ways To Help You Decide If You Need Mold Remediation Specialists

You're faced with a dilemma. You know that there's a mildew smell in the office, but you've checked everywhere you can think of and you still don't see any signs of mold. Do you shrug and ignore it, maybe run an oil diffuser and hope it goes away? That's an option, but just because you can't see mold doesn't mean that it isn't there. Noticing a mold smell is a pretty good indicator that something isn't right, even if you can't see it. Here are some ways to help you decide if you need a mold remediation specialist to visit your office in Buford, GA.

1. Smell
You know that a fungus smell likely indicates mold, but why? Mold emits gases at various stages of its growth. Mold itself is not smelly; it's the compounds that are released into the air by the mold that smell bad. If you're smelling a mold smell, you can be fairly confident that there is mold growing somewhere.

2. Sight
Mold doesn't just look like the black, blue, or gray spots you find on leftovers that have been in the fridge for too long. Mildew, which is just early-stage mold, might look to you like dirt. Especially in basements or storage areas that aren't regularly visited by your cleaning crew, don't just write off a dirty surface as just needing a wet rag. It might be early signs of mold.

3. Infrared
Sometimes, the only way to tell whether or not there is mold is to look behind walls. Thankfully, infrared technology makes it possible to check for leaks, the extent of any possible damage, and energy leaks that may be allowing moisture into the building without tearing down walls. Infrared doesn't identify mold, but it identifies mold-friendly conditions that are of concern to mold inspectors.
A mold smell in your facility likely indicates a problem. Hoping that the smell will go away probably isn't going to work. Instead, have a professional come to assess your building so that you can get the problem taken care of quickly.

Will Your Rental Policy Cover Mold Damage?

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Black mold damage in Hamilton Mill, GA

Rental insurance can be a bit confusing. It is sometimes unclear what your policy does not cover. Mold insurance, in particular, is often complex. Below is a rundown of when your renters' policy covers mold damage.

When Mold Is Covered

Your insurance should pay for any mold that results from an accidental and sudden peril. Many disasters fall into this category, including:

• Windstorms
  
• Hail
  
• Theft
  
• Fire
  
• Lightning
  
• Vandalism
  
• Volcanic eruptions
  
  

However, since mold thrives in wet conditions, the spores are most common following interior floods, HVAC leaks or pipe bursts. If you experience one of these scenarios, call emergency restoration experts in Hamilton Mill, GA, immediately. They can repair and disinfect your belongings before the mold growth begins. Your insurance should pay for the cost of this service. The policy will also cover any necessary mold removal and cleanup.
Don’t forget that your rental insurance only covers damage to your personal property. Any harm to the actual building is your landlord's responsibility.

When Mold Is Not Covered
Your rental insurance policy likely includes some mold exclusions. For instance, most renters' policies do not pay for any water or mold damage caused by external floods. These floods can result from sewer overflow, storm surges and heavy rains. However, you can purchase separate flood or sewer endorsements that should cover mold caused by these perils.
Insurers also will not cover mold that results from your negligence. If you leave out wet items or fail to remove standing water, the insurer may deem you liable for the damage and refuse to pay for the repairs.

How Much Damage Is Covered
Many insurance companies limit how much they will pay for mold claims. They may not give you more than a few thousand dollars per incident. You can purchase separate endorsements for your more valuable belongings, such as musical instruments, electronics and jewelry.
Rental insurance usually contains some mold coverage. However, that coverage may be limited, and it only applies in certain situations. Be sure to read over your policy so you understand exactly what is included.

Getting Rid of Shower Mold

9/30/2020 (Permalink)

Black mold is a very common occurrence in your shower

It's very common to find mold growing in your household bathroom. The moist, humid environment that your bathroom creates is an ideal fungal breeding ground. Shower mold is especially common, since it's the largest source of moisture in the entire bathroom. If your bathroom in Hamilton Mill, GA, is experiencing unwanted mold growth, you need to follow the technique below.

Cleaning a Moldy Shower

Black mold is a very common occurrence in your shower. Luckily, this means that there are plenty tried and true cleaning methods available. Here's how to perform one of the most effective techniques:

Create a safe, non-toxic mold cleaning solution using equal parts water and white vinegar. Pour this solution into a clean spray bottle.
Generously mist down the moldy areas with the cleaning solution. You should strive to create an even layer, without over-saturating. If puddles are forming in your shower basin, you're using too much solution. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes.
Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe off the solution. The mold should easily come off with it. You may need to use multiple cleaning rags, depending on how large the affected area is.
Scrub down any remaining mold patches with a kitchen sponge or scrub brush. Mold that's growing in the shower grout or caulking can be removed using a spare toothbrush.
Dry the area completely using a fresh, dry cleaning rag. Make sure to wipe up all of the moisture in order to prevent further mold growth.

Preventing Bathroom Mold
Keeping your bathroom clean and dry is the best way to prevent future mold issues. Every time you take a shower, you need to make sure you're taking the time to dry the excessive moisture. This includes wiping down the tiles, the edge of the tub, the puddles on the floor, and the grout and caulking. Keeping a window open or a door cracked while taking a shower can also help prevent condensation from building up.
Shower mold is extremely common but relatively easy to resolve. If your mold issue spreads out of control, you need to contact mold remediation experts for help.

Removing Mold From Ductwork

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Keep your air ducts clean

Four Steps For Cleaning Air Ducts

Maintaining a commercial property is a complicated job, and it gets even more challenging when you discover significant issues, like black mold growth. Mold does not always appear in common ways; sometimes, you may find hints of a mold problem peeking out from your facility's ductwork. There are at least four steps for cleaning air ducts.

Examine insulation
Sanitize the area
Assess the cause
Contact a specialist

Examine the Insulation
While eliminating mold from the inside of metal ductwork can be a simple task of cleaning and disinfecting, your job does not end there. You should inspect the insulation surrounding the clean ducts, ensuring that mold has not contaminated it. If you find mold, you will probably need to remove the majority of the surrounding insulation.

Sanitize the Area
Once you remove the contaminated insulation, you can move onto the cleaning process. All surfaces affected by the black mold will need to be disinfected and thoroughly cleaned. There are specific cleaners designed for sanitizing surfaces, but if you need help selecting an appropriate cleanser, you can contact a mold remediation company.

Assess the Cause
Beyond the discovery and removal of mold, finding out the cause is essential to eliminating the risk of recurrence. Inspect the surrounding area for signs of plumbing leaks or other water damage. If you do not find anything immediately around the ductwork, check the room closest to the most extensive mold growth, sometimes spores will travel into ductwork from the primary infestation.

Contact a Specialist
Mold should not be handled by people who do not understand the correct steps for removal and species diagnosis. If you are unfamiliar with mold removal, then it is likely best to contact a mold restoration company in Dacula, GA.
Finding black mold growth in your facility can be disheartening, but it is not the end of the world. Contact a professional service to help you remediate your concerns.

Why Spend More on a Hygienist?

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Mold cleanup in an Hamilton Mill, GA

When you find mold in your Hamilton Mill, GA, home, you may take steps to clean it up and then assume that the problem has been handled. Unfortunately, mold damage goes much deeper than the surface. To get an accurate picture of how much mold cleaning is required, you need to know how widespread mold is in the unseen areas of your home, such as behind the drywall and under the carpeting and flooring. Professional hygienists are highly trained and have the right equipment to give accurate results that lead to effective mold cleaning.

The First Steps

One of the first steps in the mold remediation process is taking samples from the air and surfaces in your home.

This information provides important insights into preparing the best mold cleaning strategies. With the right information, the hygienist and mold remediation professionals can determine which equipment and supplies should be used, how long the cleanup process will take, and the best route for preventing future damage.

What's Next?
After putting together the plan for getting rid of and preventing future mold growth, the hygienist and the remediation professionals may tape off areas of your home to prevent mold spores from floating into unaffected areas. Technicians and hygienists may also wear personal protective equipment to limit the spread of spores. While these experts are working, you can make sure that children, pets, and other family members don't walk through the affected area.

Mold cleaning begins with an understanding of how far the mold has spread and what type of mold is in your Hamilton Mill, GA, home. Don't settle for cheap DIY tests; insist on results from a hygienist.

The Advantages of Corporate Storm Restoration Services

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage from Storm

Storm damage can greatly devastate any business in Buford, GA. These clients deserve the best storm restoration services around. Specialists at SERVPRO use the inherent advantages of corporate help to serve insurance agents and their numerous clients. Learn about some of these features that benefit you and the businesses you serve.

Training and Experience

Bigger restoration companies employ professionals who have both the necessary training and experience to succeed in the field. They can handle the water and flood damage left behind by various natural disasters:

• Heavy storms
  
• Snowstorms and accumulated ice
  
• Hurricanes
  
• Tidal surges
  
• Tornadoes
  
  

These emergency situations are not the same and require different techniques and knowledge to treat them effectively. Water damage restoration technicians know how to take on each case and work with you to provide the best results. Business owners will be able to resume their operations thanks to this collaboration.

Fast Response
When it comes to storm restoration, time is of the essence. If water damage is left alone, it escalates and spreads throughout the location. The foundation and property inside weaken and break. Excess humidity encourages the growth of mold and mildew, making the area increasingly uninhabitable for employees and customers. Corporate storm response prevents these problems and additional costs by addressing the concerns of the business owners as fast as possible.

Equipment and Other Resources
Storm damage recovery involves the use of sophisticated equipment for cleaning and repair. Large companies with decades on the field use the latest equipment to help clients, reducing the costs and risks of buying and operating that equipment without expertise. Additionally, corporate remediation companies such as SERVPRO have locations across the country, ensuring that establishments everywhere receive the finest nearby assistance without any delay.
When a water-based disaster such as a storm or a flood strikes, your clients need the best assistance in the business. Corporate storm restoration services have the necessary personnel and resources to resolve problems in a timely manner.

How To Keep Mold Away in Humid Climates

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

There are some things you never want to see in your office building. Mold is one of them. This pesky invader can find its way into the office and grow rapidly under the right conditions. Mold thrives in high humidity, so if your office is located in a humid climate, or if there are moist environments in your workplace, there is a higher risk of mold appearing and spreading. Fortunately, you can take some steps to keep this fungus at bay.

Keep it Clean

Mold loves dirt and grime. Cleaning the most visible areas of your Sugar Hill, GA, office is not enough to prevent mold damage. You need to get into every nook and cranny of the building to ensure it's clean. Make sure your cleaning crew is doing the following:

• Vacuuming carpet thoroughly each night
  
• Sanitizing all surfaces and contact points, including door handles, light switches, and desks
  
• Dusting tables, walls, cubicles and vents
  
  

Inspect After Storms
An area with high humidity is prone to mold issues. Any moisture in the office will increase the likelihood of mold growth. If a heavy rainstorm hits the area, check windowsills, doorways, and the building's foundation for water. If you notice any, make sure you clean it up promptly.

Maintaining Good Airflow
Mold spores love when there is a lack of ventilation. Your office should have good air circulation to keep away mold. Ensure that nothing is covering the vents in the building. Open windows on days when the weather permits it. Install and maintain exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Have a professional inspect and clean the air ducts in the building. This will keep air moving properly and efficiently. Sometimes you can avoid the need to call professional mold remediation specialists to do mold clean up if you prevent stagnant air in the building.
High humidity can invite fungal growth. The good news is you can maintain a mold-free environment by following these guidelines.

3 Keys for a Home Without Mold

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Check the ceiling and tiles for the presence of mold colonies

3 Keys for a Home Without Mold

Mold and mildew in your home in Dacula, GA, brings an assortment of problems. To begin with, a case of bathroom mildew is not a pretty sight, and it also comes with a musty odor. Plus, it can cause harm to bathroom tiles, flooring, shower curtains and other items. The microscopic spores of various types of mold sometimes irritate humans and even cause allergy symptoms. Since moisture is the most likely cause of mold in a home, it pays to be vigilant against leaks, plumbing issues, and flooding. Here are three more items that you can do as a homeowner to decrease the likelihood mold will pay you an unwelcome visit.

1. Choose air conditioning over a swamp cooler. Swamp coolers are an efficient form of cooling for people living in warm and dry areas, but they can create a humidity problem. Regular maintenance of the unit can help reduce issues. If you operate a swamp cooler, make sure the humidity in rooms stay below 45 percent. Air conditioning units seldom cause similar issues, and they often have controls that can lower humidity levels.

2. Check for moisture in the bathroom. With all of the faucets, sinks, and drains, a bathroom is a prime location for mold growth. To prevent bathroom mildew, make sure there are no leaking pipes or areas of standing water. Check the ceiling and tiles for the presence of mold colonies which typically show up as dark spots.

3. Call in a mold remediation franchise. If you suspect the presence of mold in your home, call in the professionals. A company that has training and the right equipment can quickly detect the presence of mold and come up with a plan to defeat it. With the use of air scrubbers, HEPA vacuums, and cleaning agents, an experienced company can get mold under control, even a stingy case of bathroom mildew.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

We can handle any commercial or residential sanitization job

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need 

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. 

Specialized Training 

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis. 

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include: 

• Kitchen/Food Areas 
• Bathrooms 
• Schools/Classrooms 
• Offices 
• Retail Spaces 
• Water Fountains 
• Shelving/Racks 
• Sales Counters 
• Carpets and Rugs 
• Stair Handrails 
• Elevator Cars 
• Playground Equipment 
• Fitness Equipment 

Specialized Products 

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities. 

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning 

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Buford/Suwanee/Hamilton Mill, (770) 945-5355