Reasons Why You Need Professional Mold Testing and Inspection

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

Mold inspection in a Lakeside, FL home

Mold is a type of fungus that grows on organic matter and thrives in damp, humid environments. It can be found throughout the world, and it spreads easily from one location to another. When it becomes visible, it can have many different colors and shapes. If left untreated, mold can cause serious damage to building materials such as drywall, woodwork, carpeting, and insulation – which could result in expensive repairs if not caught early enough.

Mold Inspection and Testing: What Is It?

Mold inspection and testing are two separate processes. You may have heard them used interchangeably, but they are two very different things. Mold inspection is the process of inspecting a building for mold, while mold testing is a specific type of sampling done by professionals within the scope of an inspection.

Mold inspections can be performed by anyone with access to the location where it's suspected there is mold present. The inspector will look at surfaces in the area and take samples from those surfaces to be tested later. Any type of sample taken during this process will provide information about whether there is any existing growth on that surface at that time, but it does not give any indication as to what types of molds might be present or how large their colonies could become if left unchecked.

Why You Should Schedule Frequent Mold Inspections for your Building

• Mold can spread quickly.
• One of the primary reasons why you need to schedule frequent mold inspections for your building is because mold can grow in a matter of days. If a large amount of moisture is present in an area for long periods of time, then mold may start to grow there no matter how clean or dry the environment is otherwise.
• It's difficult to remove. A second compelling reason why you should schedule regular building inspections for your home or business involves the difficulty involved with removing mold once it has taken hold on carpeting, furniture, or other locations inside buildings where people live or work every day. 

When Should Mold Inspection and Testing Be Considered?

If you suspect that there is mold in your property, it is important to have a professional inspect and test the affected areas. If you have a water leak or flood in your home or business, then it’s even more critical that an inspection be conducted immediately. In addition, if you are remodeling or renovating the premises, we recommend having a professional inspect these areas prior to any renovation work beginning so that any potential issues can be addressed before they become problematic.

For Mold Removal Services Contact SERVPRO

If you have mold in your Lakeside, FL home and are looking for professional remediation services, SERVPRO is the company to call. We have been providing mold removal services across the country since 1978, so we know what we’re doing when it comes to protecting people from the dangers of mold.

Our certified technicians are trained in all aspects of proper remediation, including air quality testing and inspection. They are also licensed by their state’s Department of Health to perform these services safely and effectively. In addition, we offer free estimates on our work so that you can be sure that we will provide an accurate quote before starting work on your home or business.

If you suspect that your home has mold, it’s important to have it tested and inspected. Contact SERVPRO of Jacksonville Westside/ Orange Park today to schedule a free inspection. We can help determine the severity of your problem and develop an effective plan for remediation.

What You Should Know About Recovering From a Flood

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded home in Jacksonville Naval Air Station, FL

Basic Flood Safety Information

If your area has been hit by a major flood, your head may be spinning and you may not know what to do. Remembering basic flood safety information can protect you, your loved ones and your property, all while helping you get back to normal.

Heed Instructions From Authorities
After a flood, the police and other government agencies will send out flood safety commands that every affected resident must follow. Experts have put them together in order to keep you safe. Some of the rules put in place by Jacksonville Naval Air Station, FL, officials may include:

• Evacuating from your home
• Waiting for safe transportation from authorities
• Traveling only on certain routes
  
  

Make Preparations Before You Go Back Home
If you were ordered to evacuate after a flood and are now returning to your house, you will have a handful of safety steps to complete first. It is a good idea to check with your utility companies to make sure that their services are running, for example. Look out for any downed power lines before you go near your home as well.
Cleaning your house properly after a flood is also a huge project that is often difficult for an individual to complete safely. Fortunately, there are flood damage restoration experts you can contact to clean up water damage.

Check Access to Safe Food and Water
An important component of flood safety that everyone should know is to make sure that your food and water are sanitary before you consume them. Check your food at home to ensure that it is not spoiled and has not touched any flood water. Authorities may have instructions on whether or not your running water is safe to drink. If not, you may have to boil water before you can cook with it or drink it.
Restoring normalcy after a flood can be daunting, but remember that you are not alone. Follow safety tips, seek help from professionals and rely on community organizations for support.

Tips for Responding to a Flood Situation

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded home in Orange Park, FL.

Suggestions for Dealing with a Flood

If you find yourself in the middle of a disaster, you probably want to help out others if you can. However, if you are not trained or certified as a professional first responder, you should proceed with caution. If the disaster involves rising waters, you should only act if it is safe to do so, otherwise, you could become a victim and add to the burdens of emergency personnel. Your role will likely be limited to helping friends and family members exit to a place of safety and then calling for help from the appropriate agencies or companies.

The Need for a Fast Flood Response

Time is of the essence after a storm that causes flooding, especially if it goes into your home or a neighbor's home in Orange Park, FL. The longer the waters remain in a residential structure, the more damage that is likely to occur. Necessary first responder personnel includes medical professionals such as EMTs if anyone is injured. A professional flood mitigation company should also be called early to begin several time-critical tasks:

Water removal
Drying and ventilation
Cleaning and sanitizing

Trained technicians will also make sure the scene is safe by eliminating hazards and turning off electrical systems. They can minimize the scope of damage by taking quick action.

The Necessity of Immunizations

Working in a flood recovery zone often puts workers in close contact with the hazards of contaminated water and scared animals. This leads to a higher risk of illnesses such as tetanus, hepatitis, typhoid, cholera, and rabies. This means some personnel should consider getting vaccinations that could prevent a potentially serious illness. Other precautions such as wearing gloves and masks can also limit exposure to pathogens.
The work of a first responder calls for specialized knowledge and an understanding of hazards. You should only respond to a flood situation if you can do so safely.

Reasons To Get Interruption Insurance

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Ask your provider about a business interruption policy.

Business Interruption Policy

A heavy storm in Lakeside, FL, can cause a lot of damage. While storm damage restoration specialists can help you rebuild the structure itself, who will help you keep your business running? In addition to your property insurance, you should ask your provider about a business interruption policy.

Loss Compensation

If a storm destroys even part of your building, you already have your hands full getting it back to normal. You shouldn't have to worry about the survival of your business, too. There are many expenses that business interruption insurance may cover:

• Temporary relocation costs
  
• Lost income
  
• Payroll
  
• Loan payments
  
• Monthly expenses such as rent and utilities
  
• Taxes
  
  

It always costs money to stay in business, but you may be surprised to find that it can cost just as much to shut down for a couple of weeks. A good interruption policy can help you bridge the gap.

Partnership Protection

The compensation that an interruption policy can provide protects not only you but also the partners who depend on consistent payment while you rebuild. Your inventory suppliers, the bank that handles your loans and delivery services all rely on your continued success to ensure their own. If you are unable to pay them, they may be unable to pay some of their partners, creating a disastrous domino effect. You need a policy to help keep these relationships in good standing.

Customer Retention

Another important relationships to consider are the connections you have with your customers. Even if they are loyal, a temporarily closed business is a risk. It doesn't take a lot of time for them to find a competitor who offers similar goods or services, and they may not return if you stay closed for too long. Interruption insurance allows you to continue offering the customer service they expect.
You can rebuild your structure after storm damage, but it may be harder to regain business lost during a temporary closure. Interruption insurance can ease some of this struggle.

3 Tip for Stopping Ice Dams

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

While icicles can be pretty to look at, they can also create major problems.

Icicles may be pretty, but they’re a sign of a big problem – an ice dam. A snow-covered roof and poor insulation can lead to a solid block of ice that gathers along your roof’s eaves. If allowed to linger, these ice blocks can cause problems all over the roof of your Orange Park, FL, home. What’s the answer? Read on to get tips for ice dam prevention.

What Is an Ice Dam?

A dam is a ridge of ice that has built up along the outer edges of a sloped roof. It comes from heat radiating through the roof and melting under a snowpack. The melting ice drips down to the edges of the roof and refreezes. This can lead to several problems:

• Destroyed gutters
  
• Damaged shingles
  
• Water damage
  

Short of moving somewhere, it doesn’t snow, what can you do about this problem?

Heat Your Roof Evenly

This may sound counterintuitive, but heating your roof can stop dams. That’s because heating the roof uniformly can prevent refreezing at the eaves. Make sure you have a way to channel the melted snow away from your home.

Improve Insulation

One of the most obvious solutions is improving your roof’s insulation. Doing so can keep heat out of the attic and prevent snow melt. Better ventilation will help air move around more efficiently and keep the underside of your roof cool.

Clear Off Snow

When all else fails, go to the source of the dams - the snow. Invest in a snow rake to remove snow before it packs on and creates pressure that contributes to melting. Make sure to be safe when trying to mount your roof.
While icicles can be pretty to look at, the ice dam that causes them can create some ugly problems. Take the necessary steps to prevent them before winter’s chill settles in. Try the above tips or talk to a winter storm cleanup professional to learn what you can do.

Top Tips When Purchasing a Home Inside a Flood Zone

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Living in a flood zone means you may be highly susceptible to flood damage.

Help Safeguard Your Assets and Financial Security

Purchasing a home in Orange Park, FL, can be an exciting experience. However, homeownership is a financial investment that should be carefully considered and protected. Purchasing a home located in a flood zone may be risky, but there are several steps you can take to help safeguard your assets and financial security.

Conduct a Thorough Home Inspection

A home inspection is an important aspect of the home-buying process that helps prospective buyers identify potential issues within the house. Because purchasing a home with pre-existing flooding damage may not be ideal, you should carefully examine the structure for any signs of water damage, such as the following:

• Stains on the walls and ceiling
  
• Swollen walls and warped floors
  
• Cracked drywall
  
• Corrosion around pipe connections
  
• Missing or loose caulking
  
  

The presence of a musty odor or any of these symptoms may indicate flood damage that has not been adequately addressed, which may be cause for concern.

Purchase Flood Insurance

Living in a flood zone means you may be highly susceptible to flood damage. Most home insurance policies do not cover losses resulting from flooding. To safeguard against costly out-of-pocket cleanup and restoration expenses, homeowners should buy a flood insurance policy.

Prepare for Storms

A hurricane or other significant storm may produce significant rainfall that can cause significant problems for homeowners living in areas prone to floods. To prepare for this situation, it’s a good idea to have a sump pump, hose and alternative power source readily available.

You should also consider purchasing a reusable flood deterrent device that can divert water away from your house. Although you can also use sandbags, this traditional method cannot be reused and takes considerable time and effort to prepare, which may not be ideal if you have limited notice of an approaching storm.

Being Proactive Is Essential

You should not despair If the home of your dreams is in a flood zone. Taking proactive measures including carefully inspecting for existing water damage, purchasing a flood insurance policy and making adequate flood preparations helps protect the house and your financial interests.

Making Your Business Thunderstorm-Proof

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Check your lightning rod

Keep Your Business Safe During a Severe Rain Storm

Business owners in Jacksonville, FL, face a variety of challenges. While focusing on your company’s bottom line may be your first concern, you can’t afford to ignore thunderstorm safety. After all, thunderstorms can be dangerous to employees and damaging to your business. If you want to keep your business safe during a severe rain storm, there are three things you can do.

1. Train Your Employees
Your employees may be inclined to take severe weather lightly. To overcome this inclination, you must establish a culture of caution. Train your employees on emergency procedures and be sure they know how to evacuate and when to stay put. Also, during severe weather and high winds, keep employees and customers away from doors, windows and skylights.

2. Check Your Lightning Rod
Lightning isn’t only dangerous to people. It can take an unbelievable toll on your building, computer systems, inventory and equipment. If you don’t have a functioning lightening rod in place, you are missing the mark. Ask a professional to inspect and service your company’s lightning rod to be certain it is working properly before a rain storm rolls in.

3. Trim Your Trees
It can be difficult for any entrepreneur to stay on top of landscaping. Still, trimming overhanging trees and removing built-up debris is a good way to avoid a catastrophe during severe weather. Plan to inspect landscaping every few months to be sure it doesn’t become a storm hazard. Not only does well-groomed landscape make your business look better, but it also protects your organization during challenging weather conditions.
As a diligent business owner, you simply can’t ignore severe weather. By taking some precautions, you can increase your company’s chances of surviving a tough storm. If a severe rain storm does damage your facility, however, you must have a strategy for returning to normal business operations. Usually, working with a reputable restoration service is your best bet to move past storm damage.

3 Ways To Prepare for Storm Season

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

Consider installing storm shutters to give your windows an extra shield.

Prepare For Storm Season

You know it's coming. Storm season in Jacksonville, FL, can wreak havoc on your home and cost you thousands of dollars in damage. While it's important to have your storm restoration company on speed dial, there are other ways you can prepare for the potential flooding that the season may bring.

1. Improve Your Drainage System

Flood damage is often caused by water that gets trapped somewhere it should have been able to easily flow away from. Clean your gutters on a regular basis. Make sure rain spouts are pointing away from the house. If the grading of your yard directs water toward your foundation, consider having it remodeled so that water flows away from your home instead to avoid flooding.

2. Protect Your Windows

Protection from storm damage is two-fold. You need to remove or secure things that could damage your home, and you need to put up barriers for the things you couldn't have anticipated. Trim your trees so that errant branches don't break off and crash through windows. Consider installing storm shutters to give your windows an extra shield.

3. Update Your Coverage

Despite all your best efforts, your home may still take on some damage during a storm. Make sure that you have adequate insurance coverage to protect you from having to pay storm damage expenses out of pocket. If you live in a floodplain, you may be required to have flood coverage. Even if it's not required, however, it's still a good idea, since flood damage is likely not covered by your homeowner's policy. If your home's appraisal has changed, let your insurance company know so that it can update your coverage plan.

You may not be able to avoid all storm damage, but you can minimize your risk of problems if you are well prepared for storm season. Don't wait until flooding occurs to decide to do something about it.

How to Check for Roof Damage After a Storm

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Roof damage after storm.

After a Storm, How Do You Check For Roof Damage?

After a major storm, it's a good idea to inspect your property for damage. Your home's main line of defense is your roof, and it takes a beating. Since it's hard to see your roof, be sure to pay special attention to things like dings in your gutters or tears in your window screens that indicate hail damage. Even from the ground, you may see missing tiles or other signs of roof damage, but most leaks don't represent a need for whole roof replacement. Usually, the leak is coming from something requiring only minor roof repair. Find the source of the leak, stop it and clean the water damage.

Find the Leak Source

During storms in Orange Park, FL, wind damage lets the rain into your roof. From the inside of your home, look for stains that indicate the source of a leak and the area that needs roof repair. You may see water stains on your ceiling or coming down a wall. When you see that, get your flashlight and head to the attic to look for the source of the leak in that area. Here are five common sources for a roof leak:

1. Vents and fans
   
2. Chimneys
   
3. Window dormers
   
4. Vent pipes
   
5. Unsecured nails and nail holes
   
   

Fix Water Damage

To complete your roof repair, start looking for materials that have been damaged by water. Check for discolorations and rotting wood, as well as wet drywall and insulation. If you find mold, you will need to be very careful not to spread the problem during cleanup. A mold remediation professional can help by creating a containment area while working on the water and mold damage. If you haven't found mold, be sure to start drying any wet materials right away. Mold can begin growing on wet damaged materials in as little as 48 hours. Complete drying is critical to preventing mold, and it may take longer than you realize, especially in a humid attic space. Specialists have monitoring equipment that they use to ensure materials are completely dry.

4 Ways To Prepare Your Business for Flooding

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Water extraction in a Jacksonville, FL building.

What To Do To Prevent Flooding

Business owners in Jacksonville, FL, know that along with the day-to-day planning and unexpected circumstances, the weather also has to be a concern. With flooding an event that is bound to happen, being prepared and mitigating against it may help minimize the aftereffects and costs associated with flood damage and restoration services. Below are four ways to beef up your peace of find before the floodwaters hit.

1. Consider Flood Insurance
Although an added cost, paying for this insurance may be worth it. Businesses without it that get flooded have to pay out of pocket for the repairs. Since this type of event includes black water, which is highly contaminated, it means more precautions and extra cleaning. Most of these policies help cover all associated damage.

2. Incorporate Floodproofing Strategies
Although flooding may not be completely preventable, incorporating strategies to minimize penetration into your building should be considered. This could include building with waterproof materials, keeping sandbags or other barriers on the premise, or relandscaping to enhance flow away from the building.

3. Conduct a Risk Analysis
Location is a key component to how high of a risk your business faces. Conduct an inspection of the property to determine potential risk areas. From electrical equipment close to the ground to broken seals or drainage issues, finding the issues and repairing them before the next storm is essential.

4. Have a Disaster Plan
No matter how well you beef up your building, it is still vital to have a plan in place to deal with floodwaters. Along with an evacuation plan to ensure everyone's safety, business operations need to be considered. Note any critical equipment and procedures that may affect lost income.
While flooding may have a mind of its own, taking a few steps to mitigate against the potential damage makes it easier to weather the storm and its aftermath.

4 Quick Tips To Prepare Your Business for a Storm

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

A water restoration company can get water out quickly, saving tons of damage.

Four Steps To Help You Reopen Quickly

Storms can hit Orange Park, FL, very quickly — some with very little warning. In worst cases, the only notice you’ll get is when flood water starts coming in. Your business needs to be prepared before it happens and be ready to act immediately when necessary.
A major storm that gets in can be a business-closing disaster. In fact, studies show that a staggering 90% of companies fail within two years of a disaster that forces them to close for at least a couple of days. However, the same studies show that being prepared can substantially boost your ability to reopen and stay open. Here are four steps to help you reopen quickly, beat the competition and keep growing your business after even a major disaster.

1. Be Ready for a Flood
Floods kill more Americans each year than any other disaster, and water damage is a leading cause of insurance claims. Have employees ready to evacuate immediately if there’s a flood watch.
Damage from flood water is usually not covered by regular commercial insurance. You need a special flood insurance policy, which can be found on FEMA’s website. If you’re in a high-risk flood zone, you should make sure you have this policy.

2. Back Up Your Files and Data
With so many cloud services available, you should put all data possible in your secured cloud account. Critical paperwork should be stored in a safe that can survive a fire or flooded building.

3. Know What Alerts Mean
The National Weather Service issues smartphone emergency alerts. Know what they mean and use them to stay prepared.

4. Get Restoration Help Quickly
Keep the number of a water restoration company on hand. The sooner professionals can arrive, the less the cleanup process will cost. They can get the water out quickly, saving tons of damage.
Being ready in advance is your key to storm resiliency. Storm and flood water damage doesn’t have to be the end of your enterprise.

The Ability of Solar Panels To Withstand a Storm

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Solar equipment on a rooftop is usually exposed to the elements

The Ability of Solar Panels To Withstand a Storm

More and more homeowners are getting solar installations placed on roofs. This is a trend that is likely to continue in the coming years. This clean form of energy can also save people money on utility bills over time. Before investing in solar panels, though, consumers should consider factors such as cost, longevity, value, weather, and durability. Installing panels on a roof would not make a lot of sense if they were fragile and subject to panel damage every time a moderate storm passed through. Fortunately, the manufacturers of solar equipment understand this, and they have tested the durability of installations for decades now.

Engineering Advances
Homeowners in Orange Park, FL, have many types of severe weather. These storms can range from high winds to hail storms to electrical storms. Solar equipment on a rooftop is usually exposed to the elements, bringing up the possibility of panel damage. To protect against this type of damage, engineers are constantly working on improving the durability of photovoltaic panels. They concentrate research on several key areas:

• Advanced materials that can withstand strong storms
• Smart architectural shapes that deflect different types of stresses
• Frequent testing that identifies weaknesses in designs

The end result is the improvement of solar equipment for homeowners. More advances are likely to arrive in the immediate future.

Restoring Damaged Homes
When roof damage occurs to a home, it creates a pathway for water to leak into the attic and other rooms of a house. This can cause a multitude of harm to ceilings, walls, furniture, carpeting, and personal items. To minimize the damage, a storm mitigation team should be called to inspect and assess any damage. A local company will arrive on the scene fast and begin removing water and drying out impacted areas. Technicians will look to see if serious panel damage has enabled water to come into the home through the roof. They will work to restore the home back to its original condition.

How To Protect Your Commercial Property From Storm Damage

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Roof collapsed under the weight of snow

Prepare Your Property For Potential Dangers

Storm damage can happen to any commercial property, anywhere. Although certain states have it harder than others, even buildings in Orange Park, FL, can sustain significant damage from floods, hurricanes or severe winter storms. As part of your yearly disaster preparedness, check your property for the following potential dangers.

1. Wind and Water Damage
Check that there are no dead trees or branches near your property. If you find any, call a landscaping company to remove them. You don't want them falling onto your building in the next storm.
Also check that any shrubberies or other plants are not right up against your building. Although plantings, in general, can help control flood water, plants next to your outside walls can make water pool and cause flood damage.

2. Lightning Damage
Just one bolt of lightning can damage your entire building or even cause it to burn down. All of your electronics could be destroyed at once, or you could lose everything to fire.
Part of your disaster preparedness plan should be having a grounding system installed on the roof. This will lead the electricity safely away from your building and into the ground.

3. Snow Damage
It might be a good idea to have your roof inspected periodically as part of your business preparedness plan. Missing shingles or a weakened area are invitations for winter storm damage. Heavy snowfall may be too much for a weakened roof and cause all or part of it to collapse.
Likewise, melting snow can seep through the roof where shingles are missing or broken, causing water damage below.
Disaster preparedness can greatly minimize damage to your commercial property, but it can't guarantee that bad luck will never strike. If, despite your best efforts, you find yourself faced with storm cleanup or, even worse, flood cleanup, know who to call for help. A certified, professional cleaning service that is available 24 hours a day is your best bet.

4 Tips for Cleaning Up After a Flood

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Drying equipment in Jacksonville, FL

Tips To Restore Your Home After Flooding

Recovering your Jacksonville, FL, home after a flood is often an uphill battle. It can be difficult to even figure out where to start with the various cleanup requirements necessary to return your life to normal. Here are four tips for beginning to restore your home after flooding.

1. Recover your valuables. Floodwater can damage furniture, appliances, and woodwork. Salvage as much furniture as possible after you evaluate the extent of the damage. Mattresses and upholstery absorb contaminants, so you should discard them. Take other furniture, clothing, and fabrics outside and leave them to dry.

2. Remove water and mold. Wet insulation damages floorboards and drywall. You should remove the floor covering to dry out the sub-floor. Drywall should be replaced, but flood technicians can recover the interior wall by performing a flood cut, which is when they remove a portion of drywall 12 inches above the flood's line. Preventing mold from growing in your home is also crucial during a flood clean, so use a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity level.

3. Restore air conditioning. Water can get trapped inside ducts, which carry air from and into HVAC units. Drain the water and scrape trapped mud and debris that could impact air quality. Checking to see if the water impacted electrical wiring and discarding damaged units are other cleaning requirements.

4. Rinse and clean supplies. A flood disinfectant can remove stains from countertops and appliances. There are several kinds of detergent you can use. Chlorine bleach works for most supplies, but you should use only hot water to rinse silverware. Quickly wipe everything down within 24 to 48 hours to prevent contaminants from spreading in your home.
Keeping these tips in mind will save you time and reduce costs. If scraping air ducts and other post-flood cleaning requirements seem out of your league, however, don't hesitate to enlist the help of a trained water damage repair professional to restore your home to its former condition.

3 Damage Types You May See After a Storm

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Missing shingles on a roof due to wind damage

Three Types Of Damages You May See After A Storm 

After a storm in Jacksonville, FL, your local storm restoration service may need to perform a tear out in order to restore a damaged business space. There are a number of reasons for doing this, including preventing further damage. Here are three damage types you may see after a storm.

1. Wind Damage

Many storms also bring heavy winds with them. These winds can cause problems by blowing looks stones, branches, and other items into the building, as well as tearing up loose shingles on the roof. All of these have the potential to lead to a leak which can lead to other types of damage. A local restoration service can help make repairs to these areas and other parts of the business affected by storm damage.

2. Water Damage

One of the most common damage types to see after a storm is water damage. This can be caused by leaks, backup or flooding and may result in the need for a tear out, which is the process of cutting out walls about a foot above the flood line and replacing it with brand new material. You may also see this type of damage lead to warped flooring, cracked stone or tile, soggy carpeting, and potential mold problems.

3. Mold Damage

Stormwater can also lead to potential problems with mold. Mold grows best in dim and damp areas, and if the water is allowed to sit after a storm spaces like these can be created. You may find mild problems around any areas that have developed leaked, or been affected by flooding. Fortunately, your restoration team should know to look for these problems.

After a storm, you may find several forms of damage to your business. Wind, water, and mold damage can all be a result of a storm in the area and in sever conditions may even leave your business in need of a tear out before repairs can be completed. Fortunately, a local restoration service can help.

How Experts Determine What To Save and What To Toss

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

No matter how well you prepare for storm season, a strong storm with heavy rainfall can still cause significant water damage in your building. Part of the flood cleanup process is content cleaning. It is likely that some items will need to be thrown away, but many items can probably be salvaged. There are a few factors that determine what can be saved and what must be tossed.

Surface of Item

The item itself is a prime predictor of whether or not it can be restored. Items with the following features are more vulnerable to flood damage:

• Porous surface
• Lack of finish or protective coating
• Delicate material
  

If an items has one of these features, storm restoration specialists in Jacksonville, FL, may still be able to save it. If you can safely do so, try to dry the item gently to stop water damage from spreading before technicians arrive to commence content cleaning.

Contamination Level

The level of contamination also affects how likely an item is to be salvageable. If your building flood is the result of a pipe break, items can usually be saved as long as they can be dried. Items affected by storm damage, however, are more likely to be contaminated with black water and thus more likely to need to be thrown away.

Exposure Period

The longer an item sits in water or remains in a humid room, the more damage it is likely to sustain. If you delay in calling experts for a few days, you are probably going to lose many more items than if you call them right away. Quick response is vital for more successful storm cleanup.

Content cleaning is one of the steps of the restoration process, and deciding what to keep and what to throw away is a decision best made by the experts. To increase your chances of saving more items, call the professionals as soon as possible after a storm.

5 Reasons NOT To Drive on a Flooded Street

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

Heavy rainfall, severe storms, melting snow, and other natural events can cause a single flooded street or affect all of Jacksonville, FL. As people try to go about their normal routines when this happens, they are sure to come across several flooded roads. The most important of all travel tips during flooding is not to drive on those roads. Here are just a few of the reasons why to steer clear of streets covered by water.

1. Water Hides Many Disasters

There may be downed power lines, sinkholes, washed out pavement, and other disasters could be lurking below the surface of the waves. Even if there's only an inch or two, your tires could be damaged by debris lying out of sight.

2. It's Hard To Tell How Deep the Water Is

Without obvious clues, it's hard to estimate how deep the water is on a flooded street. This is particularly dangerous at night and on unfamiliar roads. It doesn't take long for you to get into water that is too deep to navigate.

3. Tire Buoyancy Can Float You Into Trouble

Weather-sealing and plenty of air pressure make it possible for your car to float just enough that you can't accurately tell how deep the water is. A tiny bit of buoyancy also removes any chance of friction, so you and your car are at the mercy of the flow of water. It isn't uncommon for cars in this situation to get sucked into drainage systems, rivers, and other bodies of water.

4. Engines Suck Up a Lot of Water

Engines create a powerful vacuum, sucking in air, debris, or water. When you drive on flooded roads, enough water gets sucked up to cause very expensive damages. In addition to this problem, you may find the computer destroyed, carpeting ruined, and wiring systems corroded.

5. Water Damaged Cars Require a Complete Overhaul

Water damage specialists will completely dismantle your car. Each piece of the automobile will be either dried or replaced, treated with chemicals, sealed, and then reassembled.

A flooded street is deceptively dangerous. Don't ever drive on them because of the risks to yourself and your car.

Keep What’s Salvageable and Throw the Rest

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Drywall is very porous

Inspect These Areas After a Flood

In the wake of a flood in Jacksonville, FL, mold growth can begin within 24 hours of exposure to moisture. It’s crucial to know all of the places that mold is likely to lurk to prevent it from beginning in the first place. Any porous materials that can’t be thoroughly cleaned and completely dried within 48 hours must be discarded. Inspect these areas after a flood.

1. Carpeting
A wet/dry vacuum can be used to eliminate standing water, as well as any remaining water from the soaked carpet. Once you’ve eliminated as much water as possible, use high-power fans to dry the carpet. The water probably soaked into the carpet padding, so the padding will need to be removed and replaced. If the water soaked through to the subfloor, that will need to be thoroughly dried as quickly as possible as well.

2. Drywall
Drywall is very porous. Acting like a sponge, the drywall will absorb water, which will then travel upwards. Typically, a section of the affected drywall must be removed (about 12 inches above the waterline) and replaced with new. Just as water soaks through drywall, mold growth will also occur throughout, making the drywall unsalvageable.

3. Wood
If wooden furniture has a lot of water damage you should first disassemble it as much as you can. Take drawers out and doors off. Dry with a cloth, and clean any remaining dirt and debris off. You can set it outside to dry, but don’t let it sit directly in the sun as the wood can warp. High-power fans and dehumidifiers will also help.

4. Upholstery
Soaked upholstered furniture usually isn’t salvageable. Even if it’s capable of being repaired, those repairs will probably be costly. Unless it’s an antique or a very valuable piece, it probably isn’t worth the effort or expense because it’ll likely have to be stripped and rebuilt.
It’s important to begin the sanitizing and drying process right away to avoid bacteria and mold growth after a flood. Water damage professionals will return your home to its preloss condition as quickly as possible.

Steps in Storm Damage Restoration

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

Storms can leave severe Water Damage to your property in Jacksonville, FL.

Storm restoration has become a common activity as incidents of storm damage continue to increase. Natural disasters have been on the rise occasioned by human activities that have played a role in promoting climate change. Common natural disasters that can lead to storm damage include tornadoes damage, hurricane damage, river flooding, ice damming, ice damage and snowstorms. A flooded home often suffers from roof leaks, roof damage, structural damage, and water damages due to flooding and excessive ground water. Professional storm restoration services will help you with home restoration after flooding occurs or your home suffers a wind damage, a hurricane damage, or a ice damage. A flood pump helps you pump out flood water or excess ground water quickly. They will also need to fix frozen pipes that prevents water from flowing out and ice dams that may lead to roof leaks.

Below are the various steps that are involved during professional storm remediation.

1. Make an emergency contact with your service provider. After a flood water or excess ground water hits your home, the first step of water restoration is making an emergency call to your local water restoration company. You should be able to inform the water restoration company of the level of flood water or ground water in your home to enable them prepare sufficiently for the storm remediation. Local storm restoration companies provide their services on a 24/7 basis and you can call their offices at any moment. Roof damages due to storm damage can lead to roof leak and you will need to seek emergency roof repairs.
2. Ensure that you are safe from any potential risks. Storms comes with various risks that can threaten your safety and you need to take preventive and precautionary measures. The first source of risks in case of a flooding is the power sources in our home or business and you need to ensure that all power sources are switched off immediately. The home restoration company should determine the river flooding levels, amount of flood water, wind damages, ice damage, hail damage, and river flooding levels at the beginning of the storm remediation. A flood pump can be helpful in getting rid of flood water or excess ground water and eliminating the risk of water damage for your households. In case there are broken pipes or frozen pipes, they will need repairing in addition to fixing any roof leaks.
3. You should document evidence of storm damage. You must document evidence of water damage, ice damage, hail damage, wind damage, and roof damage. Documentation of evidence is important, as it is important for insurance claim forms filling. In case you used a flood pump to get rid of water, you can take photographs, record videos, and record any relevant audios. Ice dams can lead to ice damming and this can lead to frozen pipes that are beneficial as they can cut water supply.
4. Notify your insurance agent of the storm damages. After you have done documentation of storm damages, you should notify your insurance agent so that they can initiate the process of compensation. In case the insurance company needs to carry out an inspection, they can do it as soon as possible when the state of your damaged property is still intact.
5. You can seek Federal Disaster Assistance when in need of extensive storm remediation. The federal government has an elaborate program to help those affected by river flooding, wind damage and other forms of natural disasters. The federal government provides subsidized loans to allow victims restore their homes by paying for minor services for roof repairs and water restoration. This makes it easy for you to cope with ice damming, flooding, hurricane damage, and hail damage.
6. Management of ice dams, wind damage, hurricane damage, hail damage, and roof damage. Home restoration after a flood will involve minor ad major repairs such as window and door repairs, household replacement, restoration of water and electric supply, and checking for ice dams. A home restoration process should begin as soon as possible to minimize damages from hail damage and potential roof repairs. You should ensure that frozen pipes due to ice damming and frozen dams are heated up to restore water supply. In storm restoration, dehumidifiers are used to absorb water moisture and water suckers to allow the restoration personnel to pump water out using flood pumps. A roof repair is also important in fixing minor roof leaks.

If you have any questions, please give us a call at (904) 269-9282. 

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Westside/ Orange Park can respond immediately to restore your home or business in case of Storm Damage. 

Protecting Your Business From Flood Damage

4/11/2020 (Permalink)

Schedule regular inspections in your building in Orange Park, FL

Try The Following Three Tips

As a concerned business owner in Orange Park, FL, you are probably curious about how to ward off flood damage. After all, the thought of water-penetrated walls and soggy merchandise doesn't seem appealing. It's a recipe for debt and heartache. Is there a way to protect your place, eliminating the trouble? While life isn't completely predictable or preventable, proprietors can take steps to secure the building, minimizing major catastrophes. Try the following three tips.

Stay on Top of Building Management

You'll want to protect yourself against small storm damage issues that can turn into a serious business. Do this by regularly scheduling inspections. The roof, walls, windows, and plumbing should be consistently evaluated, fixing anything that should be noticed. The following tasks should be completed:

• Fill in cracks
  
• Repair foundation issues
  
• Check backflow valves
  
• Replace broken shingles
  
• Clean overflowed gutters
  
• Trim foliage
  
  

Remember that you want a tight structure, one that is hardy, can handle winds and stand up to intense rain.

Arrange a Plan for Others To Follow

Sometimes you'll want to focus on mitigating flood damage. If moisture gets through, how can you prevent it from ruining everything? For this, work with colleagues to devise a response procedure. This should be clear and easy to follow. As you get updates, what steps should employees take and who is in control of communication? Have crews move items to higher ground, shift electronics and paperwork into a safe place, board up windows and walk around the outside. Pick up anything that could fly.

Know Who To Call

Should flooding happen, have your insurance information on hand as well as the contact number for a reputable water restoration company. With swift action, the teams can remediate the premises, hopefully saving time and money.
There is no full-proof solution to avoiding flood damage, but people can take measures to limit it. Make repairs as needed, and have a master plan.

Roof Leak After a Storm: How Long Before Mold Develops?

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage

Did you notice a roof leak in your facility during the last rainstorm? If so, act fast to remedy the situation if you want to avoid the development of black mold or other varieties. Mold can begin to develop in as little as 24 to 48 hours of moisture exposure. Therefore, when you notice a leak in your commercial building, contact SERVPRO of Jacksonville Westside/Orange Park, so we can perform four essential tasks to protect your property. 

Mitigation
Inspection
Removal
Restoration

Mitigation
Once our remediation crew arrives, they will assess the area of the ceiling leak. They will then recommend either boarding up or tarping over the affected area to prevent further damage to the interior of your building and possible merchandise.
Inspection
Next, we will perform an air quality test to check the level of contamination in the space. We may also collect surface samples to make sure that black mold has not developed. Pending the results of these tests, our crews will either begin mold removal or repairs.
Removal
If the results of the tests were positive for mold, we may seal off the contaminated area and begin removing the affected materials. Depending on the extent of the contamination, the process may take up to a week. However, if you called immediately after the leak appeared, then the likelihood of a significant infestation is likely minimal.
Restoration
Once the mold is removed or if the tests came back negative, we can repair the property damage. Depending on the severity of the leak, repairs may include interior and exterior repairs.
While not every roof leak will result in black mold, it is essential to stop and fix the leak as soon as possible. It only takes one to two days for mold to begin growing and spreading; therefore, if you notice a leak in your building, address it immediately and call for help.