Archived Blog Posts
Storm Planning With the Family | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/15/2024 (Permalink)
family watching lightning storm from inside home with candles due to power outage
Georgia weather can be pretty unpredictable, but one thing we all know to be true is that storms are possible year-round. With a variety of dangerous possibilities, storms in our town can leave anyone feeling a little chaotic—especially when there is the threat of a tornado or strong thunderstorm.
There may not be much we can do to keep the weather in check, particularly when spring storms pop up unannounced as they so often do, but we can learn how to react to them appropriately.
The more prepared you and your household are, the more you can avoid the dogs and the kids panicking. When everyone can respond calmly, everyone can get to safety faster.
Knowing What to Look ForOne of the best ways to start getting everyone comfortable with the weather is to head outside and talk about the clouds. Spend time with the kids getting to know what dark or green-tinted clouds mean. Make sure they understand that if the clouds are starting to spin or if they hear thunder, it’s time to move indoors. The more your whole family can keep an eye out for the early warning signs of a storm heading your way, the faster everyone can seek shelter.
If you are close enough to hear a tornado siren at your home, make sure your kids know what it means. Find out when the next testing will be and make them listen. You can also pull up emergency sirens online in order to play the sounds for them. This can go a long way in avoiding the fear factor that may come with a loud noise like a siren. Even if you don’t have a siren close by, play warning sounds your phone or weather radio make. Practice getting to safety through playing a game—who can get to shelter first when the siren or alarm goes off.
Preparing for the EventAfter you have spent time talking with your kids outside about clouds and sirens, gather together to make a family storm emergency plan. This should include the best place to stay during a severe weather event as well as a kit with emergency supplies.
While you plan, show your kids the safest place in your house to ride out storms in. Build a blanket fort to practice huddling together as a family. Make sure everyone understands that this is where they need to head if they hear a siren or other weather warning—even if it is in the middle of the night.
If you don’t already have one, find a plastic box you can pack an emergency kit into and get the kids involved in choosing what will go in it. Make sure there are plenty of flashlights and batteries. Getting kids their own personal flashlight can be a fun way to keep them safe and lower fears.
Family favorite shelf-stable snacks and plenty of water are two other items you need to always have in your emergency kit. Blankets, card games or even stuffed animals can be another addition that will help keep everyone calm during a weather event.
While most items can live in your emergency kit permanently, ahead of a storm event you should add prescription medications, extra snacks and water. Keep your kit near your safe space for easy access, and update it seasonally with weather-appropriate items.
Keeping CalmFear of severe weather is common even for adults, so it is completely normal that your kids may feel nervous when bad storms approach. For many children, explaining that the chances of experiencing extreme damage are pretty low can help ease concerns. Most homes will only experience damage to their roof, siding or in the yard.
The more you can teach your kids about weather and how to stay safe during any tornadoes, thunderstorms or high winds that come our way, the more confident your whole family will be. Focus on staying calm and distract your kids from anything scary. The storms will be over before you know it.
Storm damage should always be addressed quickly. Contact SERVPRO® day or night for the restoration services you need.
Water Leaks and Everything That Comes After Them | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/1/2024 (Permalink)
Trust our team at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to provide comprehensive services for a full recovery for all your water damage restoration needs.
Is there anything worse than coming home after a long day at the office or a nice weekend away and finding your floor full of water? Perhaps the dishwasher decided to wash the whole kitchen or you never anticipated rain coming through that open window.
Where it came from doesn’t really matter, it needs to be dried up. Unfortunately, for water leaks that have lingered for even just a few hours, a mop and bucket simply won’t be enough. Water moves quickly, and it often ends up in all the places you don’t want it to be.
The faster you can call in the pros, the better. We will respond to your property quickly to tackle the water, mold and odors that leaks leave behind.
Addressing Water LeaksWater has a sneaky way of finding all the nooks and crannies in your home, and once it does, it can wreak complete chaos. Even the smallest leak can get under your floorboards, into your walls and behind cabinets.
When you find a leak in your home, go ahead and dry up as much of the visible water as you can. Take note of where the leak was and what walls, floors, cabinets or other permanent items are around them.
Water that has gotten into the wrong places won’t simply evaporate on its own. With very little airflow, moisture can linger long-term and create compounding damage all around it.
The longer this moisture is allowed to go unaddressed, the more your home is at risk. Metal supports will rust, and mold will begin to form and spread. Mold moves quickly, and once it gets started, it can take over entire areas of your home, creating a dangerous outbreak scenario that will need to be tackled along with you water damage.
Following Your NoseAlong with taking note of what was around when you cleaned up the leak, you can also use your nose to find potential issues hiding out behind walls or flooring. A musty, damp and earthy smell is one of the most common signs that mold is spreading. If you notice this odor, see if you can locate the source or find any visible signs that you have a mold problem. This is a good time to call in the pros and get things handled completely.
When our crew gets to your home, we will start tackling everything that comes along with water damage, including lingering moisture in places you can’t see it. We will repair or even replace warped drywall or swollen floorboards. If things are beyond what simple repairs will fix, we can reconstruct parts of your home when it calls for it.
Your recovery process isn’t complete until everything smells exactly as it should. Once we have tackled the immediate problem area, we will also sanitize surrounding surfaces and even make sure you HVAC vents don’t have lingering smells in them.
Anything that can’t be completely renewed will be disinfected and sealed in order to prevent future mold growth and lock odors inside. Whatever your home needs to feel like home again, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t ignore signs of a water leak. Contact SERVPRO® for a full recovery.
Simple Management of Insurance Claims | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
4/15/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is Here to Help® with your business' disaster recovery!
There are so many things that will go through your mind after a disaster strikes. The safety of your friends and family is likely the first thing you will think about—followed by concerns of how much damage may have been done to your home.
As you begin to put the pieces of everything that has happened together, filing an insurance claim may not fit into your puzzle for a while. Safety will always be the first thing on everyone’s mind, but the faster you can start the recovery process, the easier getting back to normal life will be.
That is one of the reasons that our team is ready to respond around the clock. We will make the road to recovery smooth, tackling every bump along the way. That includes working directly with your insurance company, so that you can take care of your loved ones.
Start Fast, Document OftenIn every kind of disaster, timing matters. The faster you can start thinking through recovery and restoration, the less damage will add up over time. Safety should always be your No. 1 priority, though—if you have sheltered in place or evacuated, don’t head out until an all-clear has been given. When you do start to assess the damage, stay out of floodwaters, away from power lines that have fallen and as far from fire damage as you can.
Check in with loved ones and neighbors first to ensure immediate help isn’t required. If you can safely do so, clear the roads so that emergency vehicles can navigate easily. As soon as you know everyone is OK, call us at SERVPRO® so that we can get your restoration underway. We will take a lot of information over the phone so that we can get a team on the road with the equipment and manpower needed.
The more you can document what has happened to your property, the better. Take photos of everything. While it is best to wait on our professionals before any recovery is started, if there is something you can correct to prevent more damage, do so.
Shut off actively flowing water or pull the big limbs from your driveway—just make sure you make a note of what happened and how you fixed it. The more documentation you have, the easier your insurance claim process will be.
Leave It to Our TeamWhen our team makes it to your property, sealing things up so that other damage can’t strike will be our first priority. While we make sure your roof is covered and broken windows are handled, we will also begin documenting everything that will be required in order to make your home as good as new. Our professionals have had extensive training on everything that is required by insurance for a fast and easy claim process.
While we work, we will build an itemized list of all your losses, and add more photos to anything you took immediately after the disaster. All of the work that our crew does will meet insurance inspection standards, and we will repair everything we possibly can so that you have less to replace later. With every restoration project we do, it is our goal to keep your costs low and the insurance process simple.
Put your recovery into the hands of our team, and we will get your life put back together quickly. While we work with you, we will make sure your insurance claim process is easy and your total losses are low. Since we are experienced in so many different areas of disaster recovery and cleanup, it only takes a single call to get everything back to normal.
When a disaster strikes, call us to make your recovery process—insurance claims and all—simple.
The Basics of Flood Damage Prevention | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
4/1/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is ready to help in a moments notice after spring showers leak in to your home or business.
The basics are always the best place to start when it comes to doing something well. If you have ever helped your kids with math, you know that without the basics, things can get really challenging.
Taking things back to the basics is a good way to protect your home from disasters, too. A little basic care and maintenance for your home will keep things safe when threats head your way. We might not be able to control Mother Nature and all the fury she can bring, but when we are prepared, the damage will be considerably less.
Water is one of the top ways that homes are damaged around the nation. That makes going back to the basics of water damage prevention crucial for keeping your home safe.
Know Your ZoneThere are a number of ways that flooding can start. Manmade disasters that happen inside your home can be surprising and deal out quite a bit of damage, but they are often easier to find and fix than a natural disaster.
Flooding can be common in our community. The Oconee River seems to enjoy overflowing after heavy rains, especially during the spring and summer. That leaves pretty much all of us susceptible to flash floods, river floods or even roof leaks.
Getting to know your flood zone is a great, basic place to start when it comes to preparing for a potential disaster. When you understand your particular risks, you will know just how much you need to do to stay safe.
Whether your home is in a flood zone or not, it is important to note how your yard fares when heavy rains set in. If a storm leaves your yard full of puddles, adding extra drainage or lengthening your gutter downspouts can help pull water away from potentially entering your home.
For a yard that has a lot of trees, adding gutter covers can protect your roof from potential water ponding due to blockages. You will also want to check your roof after high wind blows through to keep it clear of limbs and other debris. The more you can do to keep water steadily moving away from your house, the better.
Prepare to PreventOnce you get familiar with your area, there are a few other ways you can protect your home from potential flooding. Yard work can go a long way in keeping water out even in the heaviest rain or as the river starts to rise.
Take a look at the sloping in your yard. There should be enough of a slope to keep water moving away, but you want to ensure there isn’t a spot where water can pond. If you have a location around your home that often gets muddy, a rain garden or other organic material can pull water down into the ground and help prevent potential issues. Underground downspouts on your gutters can keep water out of your yard altogether by dumping it directly off of your property.
Inside, take notice of the seals around your windows and doors. Re-caulk any areas that have begun to deteriorate in order to keep things tight and dry. If you have a basement, have it professionally resealed any time you find cracks or gaps. A sump pump in the basement can also help keep things dry.
Go back to the basics in your home in order to do everything you can to prevent potential flood damage. Keep your yard in good shape, and maintain the inside of your home regularly. It will be much easier than teaching your kids math—we promise!
Do you have water damage in your home? Contact us at SERVPRO® for fast recovery.
What to Do About Sewage Leaks | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
3/15/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is always Here to Help® you when biohazard incidents strike.
There are few things worse than having to deal with a sewage leak in your home or office building. They may not be the most destructive disaster that can happen, but they are considerably difficult due to the sheer fact that you are dealing with a gross situation.
Sewage leaks are actually pretty common, though, and they can happen anywhere to anyone. When you know how to quickly respond, you can keep everyone safe and get the issue taken care of fast.
What to Do FirstWhen wastewater cannot move through your pipes cleanly, it starts backing up into your sinks, showers and tubs. This is commonly caused by a block or clog somewhere in the lines, but it can also be due to damage done to a pipe or water line.
Regardless of how the sewage starts to leak into your home, it’s crucial that you stay away from it. When water leaks into your home or commercial property, there are three kinds of water it can be: white water, gray water or black water. White water and gray water are considered mostly safe, but black water is toxic. Sewage leaks fall into the black water category because they stem from a biohazard material and can contain dangerous microbes, viruses and bacteria.
Find the water shut-off valve to your home and cut the water supply to help stop the leak. Block the area off to keep kids or pets away, and open as many windows as you can to help with the fumes. Call our office right away to get your restoration process started.
Where SERVPRO® Comes InOur restoration team is trained to handle dangerous, biohazard situations quickly and safely. From the moment you call us, we will start gathering information about your unique situation in order to have the proper safety equipment and tools ready to head to your property.
Once our team is on the way, spend some time getting pictures of the area. This might not be the most fun thing you have ever photographed, but the more images you can get, the easier it will be to process your insurance claim.
When our team gets to your property, they will start removing the sewage and water while they also investigate the cause of the leak in order to correct it. Remember that sewage water is toxic, so let our crew handle everything while you and your family stay away.
Our cleaning process will include completely drying and sanitizing the whole area around the leak and addressing any odors. We want to make sure your property is not just safe, but free of any lingering smells as well. Our team will also repair any physical damage done in order to put your home or office back to exactly as it should be.
No one wants to deal with a stinky, messy, sewage leak, but that doesn’t mean it won’t ever happen. If it does, stay out and call us to ensure everything is handled safely and quickly. We’ve got it covered!
Sewage leaks should always be cleaned up by professionals. Call SERVPRO and we will take care of you.
It’s Time for Spring Storms | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
3/1/2024 (Permalink)
Let SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton help you get from April showers to May flowers.
The spring season is finally here, which in our Georgia home means cold mornings and warm afternoons. It can also mean lots of rain, thunderstorms and even the occasional tornado.
As spring pushes forward toward summer and temperatures consistently get warmer, storms will undoubtedly get stronger. Although we are mostly landlocked in our counties, even leftover hurricane and tropical storm systems can’t be ruled out toward the end of spring. That makes it crucial for everyone to be prepared and to have a way to receive weather alerts quickly.
The Power of the InternetNone of us are ever very far from our phones or some other kind of screen during the day (and often at night), so this is an easy place to start when it comes to getting weather alerts. You likely already receive Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone, but consider adding an app or two that can provide additional weather alerts as well.
When you look at apps to add to your phone, make sure you are using a reliable source. Skip apps that are looking for you to engage and instead go with information-based and nationally backed organizations. Be sure to sign up for local alerts as well. Civic Ready Alerts will give you the most up-to-date information about a variety of disasters.
Make sure to also tune into a local news station as a storm or other event nears our area as well. This will ensure you are not only getting the most information as quickly as possible, but also will keep you informed about evacuation orders and shelters opening.
Non-Electronic OptionsWhile we may not spend a whole lot of time away from our cell phones, eventually they will run out of battery. That is why it is important to have another way to receive weather alerts that does not require external power. Even if you have an external battery charger, long-term power outages can still leave you without any charged electronics.
If there are weather sirens in your area, check to see if you are close enough to hear them during an event. Get used to what they sound like, and learn what the different alerts mean. A weather radio is another great investment to add to your emergency kit in order to get real-time updates on anything that comes your way.
NOAA weather radios do not require electricity. Many of them are hand-crank or solar-powered, and some of them can even charge your other electronics. These are also portable, which means you can take it to a safe space when you need to go to one. It also means it can stay by your side should you have to evacuate altogether so that you are staying in constant contact with local news.
Even when you are completely prepared, a disaster can still strike and leave your property dealing with damage. That is why we are available day or night. No matter what happens, we can start your recovery the moment you call us. We make it our goal to get you back on your feet in no time.
Serious storms can cause serious property damage. Call SERVPRO® 24⁄7 for immediate restoration assistance.
When Your Business Suffers a Disaster | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
2/15/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is here for your business every step of the way, from ERPs to disaster recovery.
Disasters can be all consuming. In a moment, your home, office or entire community can be affected, leaving you and others wondering what to do next.
Putting things back together at home is crucial, but for a small business owner, getting your operations up and running again can be just as critical. By learning how to get prepared ahead of a disaster and having a total restoration team like ours at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton right around the corner, you can get life and business back to normal fast.
Prepare Ahead of TimeIn order to recover quickly after a disaster strikes, you need to plan ahead. With a well-practiced emergency plan, your team can jump into action the moment you say go in order to prepare ahead of a storm, flood or fire. A solid plan should include steps to take before, during and after a disaster in order to keep work flowing no matter what happens.
Good communication is one of the most important parts of your disaster plans. Going over emergency procedures should not only be a part of new employee training, but it should also be something you visit often with your entire team to ensure everyone remembers each step to take.
Regularly host walk-throughs of your building to remind your crew where water shut-offs are and what the fastest escape routes are. Make sure everyone knows where fire extinguishers are located, and how to operate them. It may be ideal to assign staff members tasks in the event of an emergency, like securing outdoor items ahead of a storm or shutting off water during an internal flood event, in order to protect different areas of your building.
After a disaster threat is over, it is important for your employees to know how work will start back. If they are expected to work remotely, make sure they know how to access secure sites and have the proper equipment. If an alternate location is going to be used, everyone should know where and when to report there.
The more forms of communication you can use, the better, as some networks could be down long-term after a disaster strikes. Staying in constant contact with your staff will ensure a seamless transition back to work, as well as regular updates on everyone’s safety.
Recover QuicklyWhen you have planned ahead of time, you can rest a little easier knowing that recovery has begun even before the disaster is over. As soon as it is safe to do so, contact our SERVPRO® team so that we can head to your property and begin restoration.
As our crew starts the work on your physical location, let your customers know how you plan to move forward. Just like with your staff, it is crucial to get your message out across multiple platforms in order to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Communicate anticipated reopening dates, and keep customers posted on the process of restoration. The more engaged you stay with your consumers, the more likely they are to continue patronizing your business.
Maintaining an open mind throughout your recovery might be the best way to successfully get through it. Disaster recovery is a multilayered process, and you need to be willing to be flexible in how you operate your business. Take a step back and accept that this is your normal for the moment—it will help you continue to move forward and get back to the way things should be.
Create a plan, practice it often and be flexible in order to get through a disaster. With solid communication between your team, your customers and our disaster recovery professionals, you will be back to work fast.
Has your business experienced a disaster, or do you want help building an emergency plan? Contact us to find everything you need.
Multiple Forms of Damage Handled by One Team | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
2/1/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is Here to Help® when any disaster strikes!
Have you ever felt like one disastrous event always leads to another? Even something small seems to lead to more and more issues—something as simple as a windshield wiper breaking can have you suddenly replacing the entire engine in your car.
The idea of “when it rains, it pours” isn’t a new one, and unfortunately, it is an idea that holds particularly true when it comes to a disaster. Mother Nature can deal a particularly damaging blow or an appliance leak can leave your home damaged, all while one kind of damage quickly adds up to another.
That simple cliché is the very reason why having a total restoration company like SERVPRO® right in your backyard is important. All it takes is a single phone call to get every kind of damage handled quickly in your home.
The Impact of DisastersDisasters can take an enormous toll on your home or even your whole community. While sometimes you are able to prepare ahead of a storm, things can still become unpredictable and more destructive than anyone thought possible. A manmade problem happening in your home can also be destructive, especially as they can happen so suddenly.
When a storm moves into town with heavy rains, flooding can start and leave everything wet, which will later lead to intensive mold growth. High winds can happen with or without storms, and they can knock out power or cause damage to your roof. Fires lead to soot damage in rooms that never saw flames, widespread water damage from the effort to put the fire out and lingering odors that can be hard to get rid of.
The longer damage is allowed to sit, the more it will cause, too.
The physical toll of a disaster isn’t the only damage you will need to consider either. The mental toll can also be incredibly great. Getting your life put back together as fast as possible is crucial, which is why you need a team that can handle anything you face.
A Single Team, Total RestorationWhen a disaster strikes, timing matters. Since disasters don’t happen when it is convenient, you need a team that is available no matter what time of day it is. SERVPRO is ready to take your call 24⁄7, 365 days a year. With one call, we will start your restoration. As we take your information over the phone, we will also put together a team and the tools to start recovery quickly.
At SERVPRO, our professional experts are trained in a wide variety of disaster recovery. Our team is certified and experienced—but we are also local. That means we have seen the natural and manmade disasters that have happened right here at home, and we have cleaned up after them all. We know and understand the homes and offices in our community, and we love living in this area as much as you do.
If you experience roof damage during a storm, we can respond around the clock to get it tarped and covered in order to keep the rest of the elements out. When a flood leaves standing water in your home, we will start drying things out immediately while we assess the rest of your home and dry out as much of your belongings as possible.
Our crew can even rebuild complete sections of your home when the damage is too great to repair. The goal of our team is to get your life back to normal as fast as possible. Whatever it takes to meet that goal, we’ve got you covered.
Approaching your project in order to completely restore things means that we won’t walk away until you are satisfied. If things don’t feel like they should or even smell like they should after a fire left things burned or mold tried to take over, we will keep working until you feel completely at home.
SERVPRO is the only call you will have to make, no matter the size of your disaster. Our highly trained staff that is available the moment you need them with industry-leading equipment will handle everything from start to finish when the pouring rain settles into your life. You will be dancing in the sunshine before you know it.
Have you experienced a disaster and need restorations? Make one call to our office to start recovery fast.
Winter Fire Safety Basics | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
1/16/2024 (Permalink)
Fire safety is a top priority for us at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton this winter. Keep your home safe with these helpful tips!
Cozy season has fully set in around Georgia, which means comfy clothes, fluffy blankets and crackling fires in the fireplace. While enjoying the warmth of a fire or a toasty room warmed by the space heater is one of the joys of winter, it also leaves your home vulnerable to house fires.
House fires are always more common in the winter, and many of them start because of an accident that could have been prevented. With a few simple steps, you can keep your home safe and enjoy every minute of those fuzzy socks.
Addressing Your FireplaceWinter storms in our area may be few, but when they do roll in, power outages can be common. That makes having a fireplace a great way to stay warm no matter what happens. Fireplaces come with their own risks, though, especially when they are used improperly.
Wood-burning fireplaces should be cleaned of ash and debris after each fire, and your chimney should be cleaned and inspected by a professional once a year regardless of the heat source.
You shouldn’t burn anything in your fireplace other than the appropriate fuel source. Make sure you keep flammable materials away as well, which also means skipping items that hang from a mantle. Make sure you have smoke detectors either in the room with the fireplace or right outside of it. If you have a gas fireplace, you should also have a carbon monoxide detector. Dust around your fireplace often, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Space Heater SafetyWith weather that can go from winter to summer and back again all in the course of the day, space heaters are a great way to warm up a room instead of the whole house. Space heaters are responsible for nearly 1,700 house fires every year, making them a risky convenience.
Only run space heaters on solid, level ground with a three-feet open area all around them. Check the cord before you plug it in to make sure it is free of breaks or fraying, and always plug your space heater directly into the wall.
Don’t place your space heater near your couch, curtains or any other flammable material. Teach the kids, both human and animal, to stay away from space heaters when they are plugged in. Running your space heater overnight isn’t a good idea either—stick some extra blankets on your bed instead.
Suggested Safety Features for Your Space HeaterWhile most space heaters on the market today are going to come with safety features, there are a few in particular you want to ensure anything you run in your home has. If your current space heaters are more than five years old, it’s time for an upgrade to keep things safe.
Do some research on the manufacturer of the heater to ensure they are both reliable and certified. Heaters should undergo some pretty solid testing before they make it into the hands of the consumer. Only purchase space heaters that have automatic shutoff features. They should shut off when they are bumped or tipped and after a set amount of run time.
The cord on your space heater should be at least six feet long and made from sturdy materials. Space heaters should never be plugged into an extension cord, so make sure what you are buying has a long enough cord for your needs.
Never leave a space heater or operating fireplace unattended. This way you can keep things safe and cozy all season. If an accident does happen in your home, call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton right away. We will get soot, smoke or any other damage handled quickly.
A quick fire damage restoration is just a phone call away. Call SERVPRO® for immediate assistance.
Spots in Your Home That Moisture Can Hide | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
1/2/2024 (Permalink)
Water damage can happen anywhere in your home. Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to restore water damage on your property 24/7, 365.
We rely on a lot of water in our daily lives. How many loads of laundry have you done today, and how many times have you washed dishes? Whether it is running in one of our appliances inside or hosing down the dog outside, being able to quickly access and use water any time we want is a blessing.
A blessing…until there is too much of it in all the wrong places. Whether Mother Nature has left our homes wet after a heavy rain or a crack in a pipe leads to a flood inside our homes, water can cause utter chaos when things get out of control.
Fortunately, you can take some steps around your home to keep things dry and safe and ensure water stays where it is supposed. Learning the most common spots where water can hide out is the best way to prevent potential damage.
Under Your SinksSinks are one of the biggest spots where hidden leaks happen. With so many different water lines, connection points and what is probably too many cleaning products stored under them, you need to get in the habit of checking under your sinks at least once a week in order to stay ahead of problems.
Feel water lines for moisture, and make sure all the connections are tight. Check the seals to ensure they are fully intact, and replace anything that is showing signs of aging. Leaks under the sink can run into cabinets and under the floor even if the hole is the size of a pinhead. Catch problems fast to avoid costly repairs.
Beneath AppliancesAppliances can be another problem area when it comes to water leaks that are hard to find. As long as they appear to be functioning correctly, we likely don’t think about how much water passes in and out of them on a regular basis. Dishwashers, water heaters, refrigerators and washing machines are all susceptible to leaks.
Pull your large appliances away from the wall every few months, and give the wall and floor around them a good cleaning. Look for mold growth, puddles or soft spots in the floor that are indicators of a leak. Feel along water lines you can reach. The faster you are able to identify a problem, the less damage you will have.
Behind Your Walls or FloorsOne of the dangers of hidden leaks is that they can seep into any tiny crack or opening, and they often lead to water damage behind your walls or under your floors. Even when you locate a leak and correct it, you could still have moisture that crept into the wrong places.
Don’t ignore musty odors, especially if you have recently located a leak inside your house. A new squeak in your floorboards near appliances or sinks is another indicator that something is wrong.
Around Your Windows and DoorsHave you ever woken up and found your windows all fogged up? Condensation on your windowpanes is common when the weather fluctuates in temperature, but it can also lead to water damage. When condensation lingers, it can work its way into cracks or openings and cause damage to the structure of your home.
Run your hands along window panes and ledges. Check the seal on your doors as well to see if there is moisture there when it shouldn’t be wet. Seals wear out over time, so make sure you are checking them regularly. The change of the seasons is a great time to ensure your home is well-sealed.
If you do find water damage in your home, the best thing you can do is stay calm and call us at SERVPRO®. We can take your call the moment you need us, and we always have a crew ready to start your restoration right away. It doesn’t matter if you are dealing with a flooded basement or damage left behind from a drippy faucet. We’ve got you covered.
Don’t ignore signs of water damage! Call SERVPRO for a quick restoration.
Being Local Will Always Make the Difference | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
12/15/2023 (Permalink)
No job is too big or too small for our team of industry leading experts at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton!
Imagining what life might look like after a disaster is not something that any of us want to do. Thinking about it happening anywhere is challenging, but considering our own homes being left with damage can be completely overwhelming.
You can prepare your home, but even with some preparations, you may experience losses when a natural disaster strikes. Something happening inside your home, like a plumbing failure, can also catch you completely off-guard and leave you dealing with a huge mess.
It doesn’t really matter what happens or how it happens, the faster you are able to respond, the sooner you can start getting your life back to normal. That is why having a reliable restoration service in your own neighborhood will always make a difference.
Making the Right ChoiceDealing with damage to your home after a disaster can be more than any of us want to handle. Trying to make decisions while you look at what is left of your home and you are full of emotions can be incredibly hard to do. The good news is that with one phone call you can start down the road to recovery.
Time matters when it comes disaster recovery, which is why it is so important to choose the right restoration service. You need a company that comes with years of experience, has trained and certified professionals and is available the moment you need them.
SERVPRO® checks the boxes on all of those and is a locally owned and operated business. Being local means we not only understand the importance of our community as your neighbors, but we have also seen exactly what our weather can do.
Our professional crew has experienced the toll, both physical and emotional, that disasters can have firsthand—and we have handled the restoration of all of them. Living in this community means that we aren’t just trying to get the work down, we are trying to put our home back together.
A History of ExperienceWorking with someone that knows your town well is a big comfort after disaster strikes, but SERVPRO is backed by a national brand. As soon as it is needed, we can call on extra help in order to handle any disaster, no matter how big or small.
We have been working in the restoration industry since 1967. Our growth started pretty much right away and has continued ever since. Today there are more than 2,000 locations around the nation all in our network, including our SERVPRO, located right here in Dublin.
When SERVPRO is your choice for restoration services, you get highly trained professionals who maintain certifications in a wide range of disaster recovery efforts. Our team has everything you need—we are truly a complete package.
With a highly trained crew, we can handle every single step of your recovery, from tarping your roof to rebuilding a section of your house. Our team comes with industry-leading equipment, the latest technologies and more recent recovery techniques. We do everything we can to be able to handle your disaster professionally and quickly.
SERVPRO understands the community and comes with a long history of experience in recovery. We’ve got all of your needs completely covered—after any disaster.
Want to learn more about everything we can do for you? Contact us to be prepared for anything.
What to Do About Standing Water in Your Business | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
12/1/2023 (Permalink)
Has water damage infiltrated your business? Give SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton a call to get that resolved!
Ever walked into work ready to conquer the day, only to immediately notice a musty odor in the air? As you flip on the lights you can’t help but wonder if there is a leak causing damage somewhere in the building—not exactly how you wanted to start your day.
While this scenario is bad enough, imagine stepping through the doors of your commercial building only to find your foot fully immersed in water. Now you are in an actual nightmare situation.
Regardless of where it is coming from, standing water in your business will require fast action to prevent extensive damage. Learn how to handle things when water tries to take over so that you can get back to work.
One Step at a TimeEven when a flood is predicted and you are able to prepare as much as possible, finding water in your business can be incredibly overwhelming. In order to get things handled quickly, first take a deep breath.
All you have to do is take things one step at a time, and things will be cleaned up and back to normal before you know it.
1. Safety first. As with any disaster, make sure your first priority is safety. Find a dry place to assess the situation, and then call SERVPRO®. We will start taking your information over the phone while we put together a team to head to your property. While you wait, take some photos of the flooding.
2. Keep things controlled. The best way to avoid major disasters is by taking fast action. If you can, identify the source of the flood. Shut off water sources that are still flowing. If the source is an internal one but you cannot find the exact spot, use the main water valve to cut water to the whole building.
3. Dry things out. Floodwaters can quickly become contaminated, even when they originate from a clean source. The more you can stay out of the water, the safer you will be. If you can safely do so, open windows around the flooded area and remove anything in the path of the water to start the drying process.
Work With the ProsWhen our crew of professionals get there, removing the water will take top priority. While we start clearing out the standing water, we will also complete a total assessment of everything your business will need in order to be fully restored. We work directly with your insurance agency as well. It is our goal to make your process as simple as possible.
As your recovery process progresses, you can turn your focus on getting your business up and running again. If the flooding was isolated to a small area and our experts determine you can safely do so, you may be able to open other areas of your building in order to keep working. We will close off the section that needs restoring and keep things as out of view of clients as possible.
While you handle your team, our team will make sure everything is getting completely dry. It is our goal to save as many of your belongings as possible so you have less to replace. We will make sure you understand every single step we take, and you will always be a part of the decision-making process.
Don’t let standing water ruin your day. Call us fast so we can help you get back to work.
Do you need repairs after a water disaster in your commercial building? Contact us to get dried out quickly.
Different Kinds of Home Damage | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
11/17/2023 (Permalink)
If you discover damage in your residence, call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton right away.
There are so many ways our homes can be damaged. Severe storms, a fire, physical wear and tear, and even your neighbors and their new favorite sport can result in a broken window or dented siding that has you calling your insurance company for repairs.
While there may be an essentially endless list of ways our homes are at risk, we can’t spend all of our days worrying about them. Disasters can’t always be predicted, especially when they are the product of Mother Nature, but you can prepare for them. When you are prepared, you can face each day and anything it brings with minimized risks.
In order to prepare your home, you need to understand the risks you may face. The more you understand what you might be facing, the more you will also understand that restoration after a disaster can be pretty simple, especially with a team like ours at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton.
The Biggest Risks
In Georgia, the outside risks to our home vary throughout the year. In the spring and summer, heavy rains, strong thunderstorms and tornadoes cannot be ruled out, while fall and winter bring us the possibility of flooding rains and frozen pipes. Even though the risks may vary, everyone should be aware of the possibility for roof damage, water damage and fires. These are three most common ways homes are damaged everywhere.
Your home could experience water damage from a number of different sources, both internally and externally. Roof damage can also come in a number of ways, including high winds, intense rainfall or just the random occurrence like a limb falling or a golf ball soaring through the air. Likewise, fire can originate from a lot of different places, although the vast majority of home fires are created by preventable, man made accidents.
Compounding Damages
Facing the possibility of a disaster is scary enough, but when you add in the fact that one kind of damage can easily lead to others, it can feel overwhelming. Flooding leads to mold growth, which can result in structural damage to your foundation.
Having a fire in your home, regardless of how big it gets, will likely result in smoke and soot damage spread throughout your entire home. Fire can also leave your home with an odor that is hard to get rid of. In the process of putting a fire out, your home could be damaged by water and chemicals.
Regardless of how your home is damaged, recovery will take several steps in order to get everything back to the way it was. Our team has you covered, though, and we will walk with you through every single step. With industry-leading equipment and plenty of experience in every kind of disaster, we can handle everything from tarping your roof to tearing down and rebuilding parts of your home.
With water damage, our first step will always be getting things dried out. We will also sanitize and make sure there are no unwelcome smells left behind. If the water came through your roof, we can replace structural parts in order to make sure things are sound. We will seal the space water intruded as well to stop future mold growth.
When a fire strikes in your home, we will start with the burned areas and then continue to clean throughout the rest of your house to eliminate smoke and soot damage. Just like when we handle flooding in your home, we will also dry out any water left over from when the flames were put out to prevent potential mold spread.
Our professional crew doesn’t just work directly with your insurance company, we will also coordinate every aspect of your recovery. That means you only have to make one call and won’t have to deal with multiple contractors. With 24⁄7 availability, our team will make your recovery as simple as possible.
Does your home need restoration and you don’t want to make more than one call? Contact us to get everything handled by one team.
Why Your Business Needs an Emergency Plan | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
11/17/2023 (Permalink)
Are you prepared for disaster? SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is here for you when disaster strikes!
Over the last several years, there has been an increase of natural disaster occurrences. When you look at the statistics, natural disasters are not only happening more often, they are also getting stronger and leaving behind even more damage than ever before.
You can’t rely on statistics alone, though, and there is always the very real possibility that you might not ever experience a natural disaster. Even so, there is always the potential for a manmade disaster to happen and leave your business in trouble.
Thinking about all the ways your business might be affected by a disaster might be a hard thing to do, but when you are unprepared, you could be facing damage that leaves you facing long-term interruptions. When you have a plan of action that you can take before, during and after an event occurs, you can mitigate your losses and get back to work faster.
The Importance of a PlanAs natural disasters continue to become more frequent, making a plan can mean your employees will be safer and your business might be able to avoid extensive damage. The first step to creating a plan that will protect your people and keep your business safe is gaining a better understanding of the potential threats you might face. When you know what to prepare for, you can stay ahead of flooding, fire or storm damage.
Disasters, whether manmade or from Mother Nature, don’t just create physical damage, they are also one of the most costly events a business can face. When you have a plan, you can keep your employees safe and ensure your finances stay on track.
When you plan ahead, you can get back to business after a disaster fast. A lot of businesses that experience damage from either a natural or manmade disaster never find a way to reopen again. With a plan, you will know exactly what to do in order to keep work going while repairs are made to your building.
An Emergency Ready PlanCreating a plan can feel like a daunting task, but when you partner with SERVPRO® , we will work with you to create a unique plan that matches your specific needs. Our Emergency Ready Plan can be completely customized to cover anything and everything your business needs.
In order to create your plan, our crew will come out and assess your needs in order to start creating the perfect path for your business. During this free assessment, we will walk you through how to handle a disaster before, during and after.
Before a disaster strikes, your plan will cover what steps you and your team can take. This might mean packing up paperwork or preparing your staff to begin working remotely, but it could also lay out how to prepare your building in order to mitigate damage. The goal before a storm will be ensuring safety and doing everything you can to prevent damage, as well as making sure everyone knows what to do the moment you so “go.”
Communication will be another crucial part of your Emergency Ready Plan. A chain of command will be laid out for before, during and after the event occurs so that everyone knows what to expect every step of the way.
After a disaster occurs, our team can immediately respond to your property in order to start restorations while your team will know where to go and how to keep the work flow going. If working remotely isn’t a possibility for your business, your guide can also include alternate physical work locations for your team to report to as soon as it is safe to do so.
Your disaster plan should be the total package, and the Emergency Ready Plan is just that. With a plan that covers every possible need, you can avoid both financial losses and a potential long-term closure.
When you create an Emergency Ready Plan, it is tailored to meet your unique needs—and it comes with 24⁄7 availability and the backing of a national brand. That means your business is put back together faster and you don’t miss a moment of work.
Ready to create your Emergency Ready Plan for your business? Contact us for your free assessment to start the plan you need.
A Holly, Jolly Fire-Free Holiday Season | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
11/17/2023 (Permalink)
Fire damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton on the case!
It’s one of the best times of year, the holiday season! No matter how or when you celebrate, there is likely to be some really incredible food involved. Really incredible food can’t happen without someone putting in the work to cook it though—and more time in the kitchen means a higher risk of house fires.
The number of house fires that occur increases dramatically when the holidays roll around, and a vast majority of them begin in the kitchen. That doesn’t mean you have to cut out Grandma’s pumpkin pie this year; instead, it just means taking some extra steps to keep your home safe.
Reducing Flammable Materials in the KitchenIt’s pretty natural to put in a little prep work when you head into the kitchen to get ready to cook. Make sure some of your preparation includes making things fire-safe as well. Kitchen fires don’t just stem from cooking, but can also be caused by clutter.
Keep towels, oven mitts or pot holders away from any sources of heat. Watch out for wooden utensils, too, storing them off of the stove when they are not in use. It only takes the grease popping once or a single spark to catch these items on fire fast.
Consider what you are wearing when you start working on the holiday meal as well. Anything with flowing fabric, hanging strings or dangling items can be a fire hazard. Skip the fun apron, and roll up your sleeves to stay safe.
Keep a Close Eye on FoodAny time you cook, make it a point to stay in the kitchen the whole time. Even after everything is done, stick close by until your appliances begin to cool down. Kitchen fires can get very big, very fast. You need to be able to move as quickly as possible should one start in order to prevent a total disaster.
If you are planning on deep-frying a turkey for any of your gatherings, make sure you take some extra steps towards safety. Never overfill the oil, and follow all safety precautions as listed by the fryers manufacturer.
Put the fryer on a level surface away from anything flammable, and make sure the kids know to stay away. Thaw your turkey completely. Even a turkey that is only partially frozen can cause popping and sizzling grease that could burn you or start a fire.
Install Protective MeasuresFires may not be completely preventable, but taking as many precautionary steps as possible can reduce your risks and protect your home. Your house should already have smoke detectors on every level, but make sure there is one right outside of the kitchen as well. Check the batteries before you start cooking to make sure you are good to go.
Keep a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen, and make sure several members of your family know how to use it. For potential grease fires, keep the lid to any pots and pans you are using so that you can smother them out fast.
This season, make safety a priority. If you do have a fire in your home, call us right away. We can tackle any damage around the clock, so you can get back to your celebrations.
House fires can happen in the blink of an eye. Contact us for a quick restoration day or night!
Getting Safely Through Winter Storms | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
11/17/2023 (Permalink)
The winter season is almost upon us! SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has your back with these helpful tips.
If you have lived in Georgia for a while, you know that winter can bring all four seasons in the course of a week. We may not often see heavy snows, but we can’t rule them out—just like we can’t rule out rain, sleet or ice.
No matter what happens, the more prepared we are, the safer we can stay. When your home is ready to ride out anything, you can avoid extensive damage and spend time enjoying the break in humidity winter provides.
Preparing Your HomeAside from buying plenty of ingredients for bread and milk sandwiches, there are a few other ways you can prepare your home when a winter storm is headed our way. You want to be able to stay off of the roads through the bulk of the storm in order to avoid dangerous driving situations.
Winter storms commonly knock the power out, especially since our area can regularly see freezing rain and ice. Invest in a weather radio and build an emergency kit that can get you through a few days without electricity.
Stock up on batteries, flashlights and first-aid supplies. Gather blankets and sleeping bags—if you have a fireplace, this might be a great time for an indoor family campout to keep everyone warm. Make sure you have plenty of water and food for everyone, and if you have a generator, make sure you keep it safely outside and follow all manufacturer guidelines.
Update your contact list ahead of the storm as well, and chat with your friends and family about the possibility of weathering the cold together. If things get really cold, check with the Salvation Army for a warming shelter.
Taking Care of Your Home After the StormOnce the storm has passed and you can safely get outside, give your home an inspection. Check for any damage, but also prepare for some home maintenance in order to prevent future issues as well.
Snow isn’t very common in central Georgia, but rain, ice and wind are. Check your roof for potential wind damage, but also look for any debris pileup. Remove leaves and tree limbs, and make sure your gutter system is clear. Ice can form at roof corners pretty easily, so make sure to break anything up in order to let water run away from your home.
Check the rest of your gutter system by walking around the perimeter of your house. Look for disconnected downspouts, and clear debris away from your gutter exits. Take a look at your external vents around your home as well and remove any obstructions. Leaves can still be a big problem throughout the winter, be sure to keep vents clear in order to prevent potential carbon monoxide buildup inside your home.
How We Can HelpIf a winter storm left you dealing with water damage in your home, call us right away. We are available around the clock to start your restoration quickly. Our team can get to your home, assess the situation and get things secured so that recovery happens quickly.
We make it our goal to get your home back to the way it should be fast so that you can get back to enjoying all the warm days that come in between actual winter weather.
Our team is always ready for anything! Contact us at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for a quick restoration after suffering damage from a winter storm.
What to Do After a Storm Leaves Your Home Damaged | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
9/18/2023 (Permalink)
Summer storms affecting your property? Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to restore your space in no time!
A storm can blow through and leave behind a wake of destruction so quickly it can feel like your head is spinning. Even if you were prepared for inclement weather, storms can barrel in stronger and faster then you could have imagined.
We all know Georgia weather can be all over the place, but spring and summer inevitably brings us plenty of rain, thunderstorms and even the occasional tornado. Our more southern counties can even see the tail end of tropical storms and hurricanes.
With the threat of thunderstorms an almost-daily thing in our warmer months, staying prepared can go a long way in preventing damage and protecting your family. But even when you were prepared and able to shelter safely, what do you do when the clouds roll out and your home is damaged?
Safety should always be the first priority as you decide on next steps. Take a deep breath and grab some shoes before you start assessing damages. As safely as you can, take a few steps to start a smooth recovery.
Immediately After the StormOnce the initial threat of the storm is gone, you need to continue to keep a close eye out for any lingering lightning or heavy rain. Keep a way to get weather alerts nearby and charged in case another storm cloud rolls in and additional warnings are issued. Make sure you and your family members can get back to a safe sheltering location quickly.
If there is phone service, start calling you loved ones. If you don’t have cell service, text messaging may still work. You can also go and physically check on those around you. Avoid entering damaged buildings, but instead look for a safe and clear route to help anyone out. You can also work on clearing roadways if necessary to allow for emergency personnel to come in.
Take photos of your property and the damages, and call SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton. Our phone lines are open around the clock, so we can start your recovery the moment you call us.
As More Time PassesAs time passes and the storm continues to clear, the amount of work ahead of you will begin to become clear. Don’t let your guard down, though; you need to continue to watch for additional storms and to take other safety measures to avoid more disasters. Charge your cell phone if you are able or keep a battery-operated weather radio nearby, and wear proper shoes and other clothing to avoid stepping on loose nails, boards or anything else that can hurt you.
When our crew arrives at your property, preventing additional damages will be the first priority. Any part of your roof that has been damaged will be tarped, windows that are broken will be covered and any standing water will be removed. We want to ensure we can save as much of your property as possible. At SERVPRO, we work hand in hand with your insurance company to make your restoration process as easy as possible.
Depending on the amount of damages your property received, you may need to locate a safe place to stay for a while. Try to stay as calm as you can. Seeing your home damaged after a storm is devastating, but our professionals will work around the clock to make sure everything is put back together as fast as possible.
If a storm leaves your home damaged, contact us for fast recovery. We’re here 24⁄7 when you need us.
When It’s Raining Inside Your House | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
9/18/2023 (Permalink)
Water damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton on the case!
Have you ever stood outside and watched the rain, thinking how much your yard needed it? Rain can be a real blessing, especially in the heat of the summer.
Rain can also blow in fast and hard and bring with it strong winds that have you hoping everything is still standing once it has moved out. When rain gets especially heavy, your home becomes vulnerable to leaks through the ceiling, windows and even your very foundation.
SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is here for you. We are locally owned and operated, and with 24⁄7 availability, we can respond to your home fast when severe weather leaves you wet.
Hazards of Intense RainGeorgia weather can be a little all over the place, sometimes offering us a glimpse of all four seasons in a single day. Thunderstorms are regular throughout the year, with an increase in heavy storms, flash floods and sometimes tornadoes during the warmer months. With the Oconee River in our backyards, we know how fast flooding can take over entire neighborhoods.
Flooding has been a continuous problem in our area, with the summer of 2023 seeing lots of streets and neighborhoods overcome with water. Make sure you heed local news stations and weather warnings in order to get to safety quickly if flooding is predicted. Park your car somewhere safe, and bring in anything loose in the yard that could wash away.
If an evacuation order is issued, take action right away.
Staying SafeWith the constant threat of flooding being such a real possibility for us, keeping our homes prepared is the best way to stay safe. Make sure your family knows where to go if a flash flood starts or the river begins to rise, and keep your emergency supplies nearby that location. If you are not home, never drive through flooded roads.
Store important papers and irreplaceable items away from the ground or in watertight containers. If heavy flooding is predicted, clear out the lower level of your home as much as possible and cut the circuits to that floor.
If floodwaters start coming into your home while you are there, move to the highest location possible and stay out of the water if you can. Water moves faster than you think, and it can continue to flow even after the storm is over. Stay put as long as you are able in order to stay safe.
Future Prevention StrategiesYou can’t always predict what the weather is going to do, and even a home with the most preparation possible could still end up wet. If your home took on floodwater, SERVPRO is going to work hard to ensure everything is dried quickly and your life is put back together.
Once your restoration has been completed, take a look at the exterior of your home and consider bringing in a professional to update your landscaping. They will make sure you have proper grading and replace any organic materials that may have washed away in order to keep water flowing away from your home during the next heavy rain.
If you don’t already have one, add a sump pump to your basement. This is designed to pump water away from your foundation when rain gets heavy. A sump pump can save your basement from a flood and prevent damage to the lower level of your home.
Make sure our experts at SERVPRO are in your contact lists so you can call us fast after an event. We make it our goal to dry as much of your possessions as possible. We will repair anything that was damaged, sanitize and seal your home to ensure mold doesn’t set up. We want to get you back to living as quickly as possible.
We are here for all of your water disasters. Contact us day or night for a quick recovery.
Things You Should Do and Things You Shouldn’t Do When You Have a Fire Outside | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
9/18/2023 (Permalink)
Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.
Have you felt any cool breezes in the air yet? Before we know it, fall will be here in full force and the hot and humid summer will start to feel like the distant past. For many, fall is a favorite season because of the change in the weather, but you have to admit the colorful leaves and pumpkin-flavored everything are fun as well.
As the nights get colder, many of us head outside to enjoy sweet family time around a fire. As you roast your marshmallows and eat more chocolate than you should, make sure you stay fire aware in order to keep your family safe.
A small fire can become a big problem quickly, but SERVPRO® is right around the corner to help. Not only can we start your recovery after a fire fast, but we also want to help you prevent a disaster in the first place.
Tips for Starting the FireAs you make your plans to get a fire going, keep these things to do in mind:
Do pick a place that is in the open, away from any structures. Make sure you don’t pile your extra wood and brush near the flame either.
Do keep water nearby. If you are too far away from a faucet, fill up a bucket with water and have it within arms reach in case something happens. A shovel and some dirt can also be handy in putting out any rogue embers or flames.
Do check the weather. Even a fire pit that has a screen can become dangerous on windy days, especially if things have been dry for a while. Check on burning regulations as well to make sure there are no current bans.
Tips for While the Fire Is HotOnce you get your fire going, pay close attention, and keep in mind a few things not to do:
Don’t use any fuels except for approved, treated woods. Lighter fluid or gasoline should never be added to open flames and are not approved for use in fire pits. Don’t toss trash in either, since it could have a higher burning point than what your fire pit or bonfire ring can handle.
Don’t allow the kids to get near the fire. If they are roasting marshmallows, use a long stick or extendable forks. Running or walking near the flames should never be allowed to avoid accidents.
Don’t try and impress the neighborhood with a huge fire. The larger your flames, the less control you have. One too tall flame or large ember can make for a total backyard disaster.
Don’t leave the fire unattended. Stay outside until there are no longer red, glowing embers. Embers can spark back into flames even hours later. Put water on the fire when you are done, and relax nearby until it is completely out.
Wildfire PreventionMost wildfires are started out of human error. If you are going to have an open flame outside, make sure you do what you can to keep it contained and avoid potential disasters. Make it small, stay nearby and use the right materials.
If your home ever experiences a fire, call SERVPRO. With 24⁄7 availability, we are always ready to help.
Fire can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. Contact us day or night for immediate assistance.
What to Do When Your Home Has Water Damage | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
8/15/2023 (Permalink)
If you discover water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton right away.
Water is one of the most powerful things we will ever encounter. Even when it is controlled, pumping through our pipes and turning off and on with a flick of our hand, water can surge out at surprising strengths. If you have ever spent time near the ocean, you have seen water and felt the incredibly powerful nature that it is.
We can’t survive without water, but when it starts to seep into all the wrong places it can turn our lives upside down. While Georgia weather is often a mixed bag and certainly comes with its share of flash floods and heavy downpours, we have seen the Oconee River overflow and isolate parts of our town as well. Whether is it a natural disaster that floods your home or a leaky water heater drowning your basement, water can be very destructive and leave your home in utter chaos.
You can take a lot of different steps to prepare and protect your home from potential water damage, but there are some disasters you just can’t stop. With a team of water damage restoration experts right around the corner, no matter what happens you can get dried out and back to living quickly.
The First StepsWhen your home takes on water unexpectedly, the quicker you are able to respond, the less damage your home will incur. Water can flow into some of the most hidden areas you would never think to check, so the first step to take after a water disaster will always be to locate the source in order to gain control.
After you have found where the water is coming from, take stock of what you can do to stop it. If the water is from a natural disaster, your only option might be to just wait it out in a safe space. Leaks from your plumbing can be shut off, though, so make sure you know where various valves are located around your home. Take a look at what electrical equipment might be under water as well.
Never step into water with live electrical wiring in it. Shut off your circuits before plunging into the flooded area.
The moment you can safely do so, call SERVPRO® . Our team is available around the clock, so it will never matter when your disaster strikes. The sooner you can call, the sooner we can start drying out your home.
How We Dry Your HomeAfter we have received your call, we will start your restoration process right away over the phone. As we gather your information, you might consider taking pictures of the flooded or damaged area. Part of our restoration process is working directly with your insurance to make for the smoothest recovery possible, and photos are a good way of documenting everything that has happened.
Once we have gathered basic information over the phone, we will get a team to your home with industry-leading equipment designed to dry out as much of your property as possible. We will tackle water removal and soft items immediately in order to salvage as much as we can. It’s our goal to restore everything so you are not left replacing your items. Drying your home means that not a drop of water is left, and your property is sanitized and odor-free.
If water has done enough damage to destroy an area of your home, we can tear it down and rebuild it to your specifications. Your home will be as good or better than new when we are done. It doesn’t matter where the water came from, our team is trained to handle every aspect of restoration.
Any time your home takes on more than an inch of water, you need to call our professionals at SERVPRO. Water from pipe failures and water from floods are handled in different ways in order to keep everyone safe and sanitary, and our team is well-versed in it all. With a crew of professionals in your neighborhood, you can get back to appreciating water and all it does for us without the worry of long-term damage.
Do you have water damage in your home? Call us for fast and complete restoration.
Backyard Grill Safety | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
8/10/2023 (Permalink)
Have you had a barbeque gone wrong? Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to get your space back in shape.
Is there anything better than summer? Even if you are not a fan of the heat and humidity that comes with Georgia weather, being able to spend time outdoors and the bright sunshine simply cannot be beat. Summer is also grilling season, which means you can take the chore of cooking for the family outside.
Using a grill incorrectly can become a complete disaster quickly, and is actually one of the leading causes of house fires in the summer. SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton wants to help you enjoy every moment of summer, free of worry and full of safety.
The SetupIf you haven’t already done so, choose a location for your grill that will ensure an extra layer of safety for your home. Grills should be placed in an open location, free from anything above or directly beside them. That means that even on the rainy days we often see in Dublin, rolling the grill into the garage to cook is a no-go.
Choose a location that is away from any structures in your yard as well. Try to create a zone of at least 10 feet in which there is nothing combustible. Teach the kiddos, including the ones with four feet, that this is a kid-free zone.
Take a few steps to prepare your grill before you ever turn it on or light it up. Charcoal grills should be free of ashes from BBQ’s past, and inspected for build-ups of any kind. Check the grill body for holes, dents or other signs of wear and tear. Propane and any other kind of gas grills should be inspected before each use as well. Look for holes in the gas line and make sure everything is tightly connected.
Manning the FlamesAfter inspecting the grill, take a quick inventory of your supplies. Make sure you have some water nearby to put out flames when they get too high, and put a fire extinguisher or garden hose somewhere you can quickly access it.
Once you are done cooking, it can be tempting to show off your hard work and start chowing down, but you should stick by the grill until everything is completely turned off and it has begun to cool off. Hand off the food and switch off burners and the gas. For a charcoal grill, close vents so that oxygen can no longer access the burning coals and they can begin to cool.
As soon as you can safely do so, remove ashes and leftover charcoal altogether. These should be disposed of in a metal can or another fire-safe receptacle. It doesn’t take a lot of heat to reignite leftover ashes, so the sooner you can get them away from the grill, the safer you will be. Make sure your grill is cooled enough to touch before heading to bed for the night.
Make this summer the best one, and make it the safest one, too. Summer weather is some of the best weather in Vidalia, and you deserve to enjoy every minute of it worry=free. SERVPRO is here for you if things do get out of hand, 24⁄7.
Don’t let fire damage linger in your home. Call us at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for a fast restoration.
Storm Safety From the Outside In | SERVPRO Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
7/19/2023 (Permalink)
Have you been impacted by the unusual summer storm season? SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has your back when you experience flood and water damage.
The potential dangers storms bring to your home is a long list, including wind, hail, tornadoes and floods to name just a few. Extremes will vary according to the season and where your home is located, but there are always risks you should be ready for.
When you own your home, you want to know that you have done everything in your power to avoid potential losses and keep your family safe. Seasonally, there are a number of tasks you should add to your to-do list in order to be ready for the weather.
The weather in Georgia may change a lot, but generally, our area stays pretty mild. In the spring, we can see strong thunderstorms and heavy rains, while in the fall we can see a lot of wind and cold rains. Tornadoes are possible in either season, but typically occur more often in the spring.
Start preparing your home from storms on the outside and keep everyone safe inside.
Seasonal PrepsProtecting your home from storms year-round doesn’t have to be complicated. Adding a few steps into your everyday routines can go a long way in keeping things safe. You can even get the kids involved and find ways to make it fun while you work.
Strong winds and heavy rain are something that pretty much everyone battles year-round and a common source of home damage. Keeping your gutters cleaned out and picking up loose debris around the yard can help you avoid damage from wind-flung objects or puddles of water. Strap down any furniture that lives outside permanently and keep other items like trash cans near the house where they can quickly be stashed when a storm is predicted.
Any time you are working in the yard, take an intentional walk around your property to look for growing gaps or rotting wood. Make sure windows and doors are well-sealed to avoid leaks during the next rain storm, and keep a close eye on your roof. You should be checking shingles after every windstorm and giving everything a thorough inspection every four months in order to stay on top of any needed maintenance.
Home UpgradesMost of the time, preparing for a storm simply means rolling up your sleeves and putting in a little free labor around the yard. There are a few home upgrades you could consider adding, though, that could give you a little extra piece of mind.
Adding storm shutters to your home can be a quick and simple way to protect your windows during high winds. If you live in a heavily wooded area or often see high winds, upgrading to windows made from heavier materials could be a good investment. Gutter guards that keep leaves or other debris from building up are another great addition that could prevent roof and water damages.
If you have outbuildings on your property or live in a modular home, consider adding structural tie-downs in order to prevent damages when winds get high or a tornado forms.
Make sure you understand weather alerts, and keep two ways of receiving them nearby when storms are predicted. Find a safe space in your home where you and your family can shelter from storms, and keep some emergency supplies stored there. Make sure to include emergency contacts—and add SERVPRO® to that list. We can start restoration on your home day or night so you can get back to living.
Was your home damaged in a storm? Call us at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to start restoration, 24⁄7.
Be Prepared for Weather Emergencies at Work | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
7/14/2023 (Permalink)
If your home or business was damaged in a storm, call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to get you back in action.
When it comes to running a business, the best principle to instill in your staff will always be staying prepared for anything. While you consider every hurdle your business might face, don’t forget to think about how you will handle a weather emergency.
A prepared team is a team that becomes resilient and works well together. Work with your crew to prepare for emergencies that might occur outside so that everyone responds well in order to stay safe and mitigate as much loss as possible.
When the weather turns severe, a panicking team can create a bigger disaster than the storm rolling through. Make sure every emergency is approached calmly so your teams weathers every hurdle well.
Know Your RiskThe best place to start in creating your severe weather plan is by assessing the potential storms your business may face. Get to know the weather in your area and what severe weather each season brings, and find out ways the area around your property has been damaged in the past. When you know what you are facing you can create more specific plans.
Our area of Georgia enjoys mostly mild weather, although the spring and summer often brings strong thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes. While our surrounding areas are not far from Georgia’s coast, we are outside of most hurricane threats. Heavy rains, strong winds and flooding are always a possibility, however.
While you investigate the specific threats to your business, make sure you check where your location lies in relation to flood plans. You should also ensure you have several ways to stay connected with up-to-date local weather in order to prepare for bigger storms as early as possible.
Make a Plan to CommunicateCommunication is key when it comes to keeping everyone safe and calm. Create a communication plan that gets messages out to everyone in your building so that they can work together cohesively.
Your communication plan should include more than one way to contact one another in the event that one form goes down as the storm moves in. Your staff needs multiple ways to clearly understand when it is time to gather supplies and when it is time to evacuate.
Plan Your EvacuationIf a weather emergency requires evacuation, your employees need to know exactly how to get out quickly and safely. Practice exit routes on a regular basis, and make sure they are clearly mapped out and displayed throughout your building. Consider adding emergency lights that will work without power to any areas that could be challenging to navigate.
Weather can turn severe fast, making evacuation unsafe in certain situations. When you can’t get the crew out, make sure they know where the safest place to shelter is. Visit this space when you practice your emergency plans, and store emergency supplies nearby. A low-level location without windows is your best bet for a safe shelter.
Regardless of whether you have to stay or go, make sure your emergency plan is so well-known by everyone you work with that they can jump into it as calmly as possible. Emergencies will always be scary, but the more prepared your team is, the smoother things will go and the lower anxiety can stay. Practice always makes perfect!
Don’t let extreme weather take control! If storms strike your business, SERVPRO® can help you restore your losses.
Fire Safety for Kids That Isn’t Scary | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
6/10/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is here for you and your family if you experience a fire in your home or business.
Watching children grow is such a joyful experience. Helping them grow in curiosity and creativity while you get to view the world through their bright eyes is such a blessing, but there are plenty of things you will have to teach them that could be less than pleasant.
Fire safety is one of the most important things you can teach children, and something they need to learn starting at a very young age. If a fire breaks out in your home it will be scary for everyone regardless of age. The more you prepare the faster and safer everyone can respond.
Introduce your children to staying safe during a fire in fun and comfortable ways so they know how to react during an emergency.
Explain the Dangers of Fire
In order to understand something, kids need to be able to experience it and get to know cause and effect. Teach your children how a fire can start. Walk them to areas of your home where fires are prone to starting, including the stove, fireplace or fire pit if you have them. Make sure they understand that these are not toys and should be used safely or not at all.
Store matches and lighters in a secure place in your home where young children cannot access them, and make sure older children understand that they are not toys before allowing them to use them. Found matches should always be brought to an adult. A house fire can start from a single smoldering match.
Familiarize Them With Authority
Teaching your kids about proper authority figures is another crucial lesson they need in lots of areas of their lives, but make sure they are familiar with firefighters who could respond in the event of a fire emergency. Show them pictures of firefighters in their gear, or take them to the local station to introduce them and allow them to see the truck and gear up-close.
Work with your kids on what firefighters will do when they come to your home during an emergency. Have them army crawl down a hall while they yell out their names. Play a stop, drop and roll game to see who can make it the fastest from one location to the next. Keep it light and fun so that your children can better absorb the techniques without fear.
Make a Game Plan Together
If your family does not already have one, create an emergency exit plan. Get creative with art supplies and have the kids create diagrams of the safest ways out of each room. Hang their artwork on the fridge as another way to reinforce this crucial concept.
Practice these escape routes, and talk about window safety if that is one of the exits out of a room. Make sure your children understand this is a last resort and go over the potential fall risks so they avoid trying to climb out for fun later.
Create an outdoor meeting place that your family can safely gather at in the event of an emergency. Make this a space far enough away from structures but still somewhere comfortable and frequently used. Let the kids play here from time to time in order to make this spot feel safe.
Teach your kids how to call 911 and help them memorize basic information about themselves, their parents and their location. Practice everything often, and you can rest assured your family is safe.
Fires can cause widespread damage. Call us for a thorough and efficient restoration.
Prepare Your Home for Windy Weather | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
6/5/2023 (Permalink)
If you've suffered from storm-related damage to your home or business, make SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton your first call.
Wind can be a true gift when it whips around your body on a hot day, ruffling your hair and cooling you to the core. The wind is an ever-present force in our lives that even though we cannot see it we always know it is there—and sometimes that can mean it is there at the wrong time and in the wrong place.
Sure, wind is great on a hot beautiful day, but when winds become strong, they can upturn your life and destroy property in the blink of an eye. While most winds like these are often thought to come along with severe storms, wind can leave you devastated even when the sky is blue.
If you familiarize yourself with strong winds and the potential damages they might leave behind, you can keep your home and your family prepared in order to avoid total losses.
The Different Kinds of Wind
When damaging winds are reported they almost always come from a severe thunderstorm. Thunderstorms are incredibly common in our part of Georgia all year, which means we are susceptible to damaging winds during every season.
While your average thunderstorm can pack a variety of different punches, winds can easily reach and exceed 60 miles per hour when one blows through. That kind of wind speed can throw small debris around.
One of the most common kinds of damaging winds that originates from a thunderstorm is straight-line winds. These are winds that aren’t associated with rotation, but can still reach nearly 100 miles per hour, causing widespread damage even in outlying locations from where the storm went through.
We all know that tornadoes bring a huge threat to our area, and most of us likely remember the Mother’s Day tornadoes that were particularly damaging. Tornadoes carry quite a few different kinds of winds, all of which are strong and detrimental.
The winds most often associated with a tornado include downdrafts and micro- or macro-bursts. Together, these winds create a path of destruction and can take out anything near where they blow.
Wind Damage and Prevention
Some of the most common kinds of wind damage include knocked down trees and debris that has been thrown from one location to another. When winds reach over 80 miles per hour, mobile homes, even those that are anchored, can be damaged pretty severely.
Getting to know the different kinds of weather alerts that are associated with strong winds is one of the best steps you can take in protecting both your home and your loved ones. Taking care of loose objects that could become projectiles in strong winds is another great form of prevention. Permanently secure anything that stays outside, and have quick locations to stash anything else when winds are picking up.
Take care of the trees around your home as another way to stay protected. Trim loose limbs frequently, and consider bringing in a professional every couple of years in order to cut back tall trees. Clean up your yard after every storm to avoid any small objects being blown around next time the wind picks up.
If you haven’t already designated a safe spot in your home to ride out severe weather, take the time to do so with all of your family members. An interior room without windows is ideal, but if you do not have one investing in storm shutters can also help keep you safe.
After a wind event, walk your property. Check your roof line for gutters that may have been knocked out of place or shingles that may have shifted or are missing. Fix issues fast to avoid water damages, and call SERVPRO to tackle any damages that do occur. We will make sure everything is as good as new quickly so you can get back to living.
Has your home been damaged by wind? Call us and get things cleaned up fast.
All the Places Water Damage Can Hide in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/9/2023 (Permalink)
Think you may have water damage in your home? Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to find the source.
Water is powerful, and when it flows into the wrong places, it can do damage that goes deep and widespread quickly. Unfortunately, there are lots of places in your home that water damage can hide out, meaning you could be looking at costly repairs when you do find it.
Getting to know where water damage likes to play hide and seek in your home can help you prevent extensive damage and stop other issues like mold before structural problems set in. By adding checking some of the most water-prone locations to your regular maintenance routines, you can win the game and protect your home.
Get familiar with these three areas as a start:
The roof of your home. When water damage starts on the roof, it often starts small and slow. There are a lot of ways water can seep in with the various nooks and crannies, which can make it very hard to detect when there is a problem.
Living in this part of Georgia gives us an advantage, though, as the weather stays generally mild in the fall and spring. Use this time to get on your roof and check for missing shingles, loose spots and blocked gutters. We get a lot of rain in these seasons as well, so make sure to keep a close eye on things after big storms, too.
When your roof leaks, it can lead to damage on every level of your home and create a moist environment in your attic that is perfect for mold growth. With our humid environment, it is even more important to check often for damp spots and replace insulation as needed.
Bathrooms. It should come as no surprise that your bathroom is a common spot for water damage, but it often goes unnoticed because of how often water is present in the bathroom anyways.
Look under the sink for signs of drips or puddles, and make sure the tub and sink faucet turn off completely. Check around your toilet base weekly for moisture, and do the same around the tub.
Your bathroom should dry out completely after every use, so if it consistently feels or smells damp, there could be a bigger problem. Make sure your drains empty quickly, and always run an exhaust fan to help remove water.
Appliances with water lines. Any appliance that has a water line can leak, and these leaks can be particularly challenging to find. More often than not, leaks occur under or behind the appliance, which means heavy damages can set in before you ever find it.
Pull your large appliances, including your washing machine, dishwasher and refrigerator, out and away from the wall one or two times a year. Clean under and behind them, and feel for damp, soft spots in the floor. Look for signs of mold growth as another indicator that your water line is having issues.
Watch for signs of problems when you use them as well. If you hear dripping, or water is running slower than usual, it could be worth investigating to ensure there isn’t a leak. Replace your appliances periodically to prevent problems before they start, and call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton as soon as you do find damage.
Dealing with a water emergency? Our SERVPRO specialists can be on the scene of the disaster ASAP to restore your water-damaged home!
The Restoration Team You Can Trust | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/4/2023 (Permalink)
Is your home or business in need of restoration? SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is ready to help you recover.around the clock.
When it comes to your home, making decisions can be tough. You have to consider your safety and security, but also your likes and dislikes, your needs, your costs…the list could go on and on. Making small decisions might not seem that challenging, but when it comes to needing help after a disaster, choosing the right restoration team is a major decision.
If your home is damaged in a fire or flood, it can leave you feeling devastated, and you need to know that your recovery is in the hands of a highly trained, certified team.
When you let SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton handle your restoration, you are choosing a team that has the latest knowledge, top-of-the-line equipment and certifications to handle your project with the most advanced techniques.
We Adhere to Industry Trainings
At SERVPRO, our team follows a specific set of standards set for the restoration and recovery industry called IICRC standards. That means our crew is trained following the best industry standards and guidelines in order to complete your cleaning and restoration projects. We adhere to these standards in everything we do, including:
Along with meeting these standards in everything we do, we offer Employee Certification Training to all of our staff to keep them in line with the latest knowledge. This is self-paced training that gives our team the opportunity to really retain every bit of information presented to them.
We Never Stop Learning
From the moment they are hired, our team is trained extensively. Even after onboarding is complete, our staff has the opportunity to continue their education through classes or e-learning options. This ensures they are able to grow in their skills and remain on top of all the latest information and processes.
Along with our dedication to be lifelong learners, we also strive to have the latest industry tools and technology. As a locally owned member of this community, we want to ensure that any family affected by any kind of disaster can recover quickly and fully.
Technology in this industry changes fast, and it is one of our goals to change with it. We want to update our processes in order to do the best job possible with the best tools, knowledge and materials. We want to see you recover from any damages, regardless of size or source.
Why This Matters for You
When your home is damaged, there is nothing more that you need than a local company that is certified and trained to handle it all. Having SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton in your backyard is a huge benefit to you, as it means you get 24/7 help from start to finish. We won’t walk away from your project until you are completely satisfied.
Working with a company that isn’t certified or that can only handle parts of the restoration process, you are often left with less than satisfactory results. When you choose SERVPRO, you are in the best hands.
When you need help recovering from a disaster, SERVPRO is here for you. Get in touch 24/7 to start your disaster recovery.
Learn Weather Alerts and Stay Safe | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
7/12/2022 (Permalink)
If you suspect any damage to your home from a recent storm, call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton’s.
When it comes to severe weather, there are at least 42 different kinds of alerts out of seven different categories. That is an awful lot of information to try and understand, especially as dark clouds and strong winds are blowing in.
When you know what an alert means before it is sent out for our area, it means that you can get to safety quickly. It also means you can take action to protect your home and your loved ones.
Learning how multiple weather systems work is helpful, but understanding what severe weather we have in Georgia is essential in staying safe.
How Alerts Are IssuedWhere are weather alerts sent from? When do forecasts get created, and when they are formed, how is a storm tracked for its duration, severity and location? There is actually a lot of information that goes into answering these questions.
Weather forecasts and alerts that are issued come from the National Weather Service. There are six regional offices and more than 100 forecasting offices all around the nation. That means that our forecast is localized, which allows it to be more accurate. Our forecasts and alerts typically come from the forecasting office located in Peachtree City.
In these offices, meteorologists and other employees with the NWS use several kinds of data in order to build a forecast, including satellite radar, various sensors, seismic activity meters and even solar activity. The type of information used will vary according to the kind of significant weather event moving in, but the end result is to be as accurate as possible.
The Most Important Alerts to UnderstandEven with so many types of weather alerts, it is important for everyone to understand the difference between a watch and a warning. These will be included in almost every form of weather, including winter storms, flooding and thunderstorms.
A watch means you need to begin preparing for an extreme weather situation. Watches are issued for a broad area, while a warning will be issued for a small area such as a county or a city. Warnings mean that an extreme storm will likely happen and safety measures should be taken immediately to protect your property and your loved ones.
Along with these warnings, we need to understand a variety of others to handle the weather we see here in Georgia. While our winters are not often very cold, we do occasionally see some freezing temperatures.
Our spring and summers come with oppressive heat, thunderstorms and tornadoes. Georgia has long ranked as one of the top states for tornadic activity, so understanding tornado watches, warnings and advisories is crucial to protecting our homes.
Protecting Your Home During a StormUnderstanding all kinds of weather alerts before a storm moves in is a great step to protecting your home, but there are some other ways you can mitigate damages as well.
Clean your gutters regularly and secure any loose outdoor objects to avoid flood and wind damage before a storm. Create a location in your home with supplies for your family to shelter in place, and practice an exit plan for when you need to get out.
Once the storm is gone, take note of any damages you have received, and call us at SERVPRO. We are available 24⁄7 to save as much of your home as possible.
Learn about southern Georgia weather and stay safe in any storm. Take the time to make yourself aware of the different alerts that can be issued and handle the next storm safely.
Experienced storm damage to your home or property? Contact us today for a quick response!
Steps to Prevent Home Fires | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
6/6/2022 (Permalink)
If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration needs.
Working smoke detectors were present in the homes of 74% of house fires between the years 2015 and 2019, speaking for the vast use of fire alarm home systems across the United States.
While smoke detectors remain the most effective tactic to avoid fire-related deaths and property damage, there are various other precautions you can take, the bulk of which are as simple as cleaning your home:
Clear Your Home of ClutterOur homes are vulnerable to clutter. When it comes to fire prevention, clothing, spare blankets and other textiles left unattended in corridors and storage rooms are very risky.
If you keep clothing near gas tanks or water heaters, you can easily start a fire. To avoid dangers in case you ever need to leave your house quickly due to a fire, it’s a good idea to leave open, clean pathways. That way, if a fire does happen, it will progress less quickly due to having less-flammable materials in its path.
Lastly, ensure there is space in between wall outlets and rugs, lamps or furniture to avoid creating a fire hazard.
Protect the Outside of Your HouseThere are several techniques to make your home’s exterior more fire-resistant. You can create a path for firemen to enter your home more efficiently in the case of a fire by using strategic landscaping tactics and take steps to limit the risk of fire spreading to your house.
It is suggested that you retain at least 30 feet of defensible space outside your home at all times, and that you replace flammable materials with more adequate materials such as cement, brick and gravel. Also, remove any waste material that may block the path, such as leaves or dry grass.
Watch for HazardsHome fires resulting from cooking are very common in Georgia, so remember to always double-check your appliances, stove top and oven before leaving the kitchen unattended.
Burning candles left alone are another of the most commonly reported sources of home fires. Before leaving a room or leaving your house, it is essential to always double-check burning candles and fragrance sticks.
These easy actions can make a dramatic contribution to decreasing your fire risk and maintain that you are adequately equipped in the event of a home fire.
We spend a lot of our time inside our homes, spending time maintaining our properties and building memories within its walls. To avoid a fire, it is also critical that we make sure to keep our homes clean and take the time to remove hazards, and keep our families safe.
If you have experienced fire damage or want to learn more about our fire damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, 24⁄7.
SERVPRO Has the Restoration Experts You Need | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/30/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is your local restoration expert. We are the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration.
SERVPRO is much more than your neighborhood restoration partner. When disaster strikes, we’re here to help.
It is easy to get overwhelmed when floods, water damage or fire spread in a home or business. But SERVPRO does not let you deal with it alone.
Our experts can restore your space to preloss condition in record time. Here’s how we do it:
Water DamageNo flood is a joke, no matter how small. In fact, quite the opposite. Regardless of their size, floods can cause serious damage to your property. To put it in perspective, floods cause more than $10 billion in damages nationwide every year.
Claxton witnessed major road flooding in 2021 due to rising rivers caused by heavy rainfall. These circumstances are more common in the areas that are close to the water or not much above sea level, but can happen anywhere.
Naturally, this has to worry any home or business owner. Given that flooding happens pretty frequently, it will most likely happen during your lifetime. But there is no reason to panic, as we will not only help you repair the damages, but will also educate you about the gravity of the situation, so that you can make the best decision for how to restore your property.
With our tools, we detect hidden moisture that can cause mold and cracks. Once we discover all the potential dangers, we can then develop the restoration plan that best serves your needs.
Fire DamageIt might shock you to know that a U.S. fire department responds to a fire every 23 seconds, and there was an estimated $8.1 billion in direct property damage and losses nationwide in 2020.
If your home or business has experienced fire damage, we will not wait to get you back on track with our seven-step restoration. We will first inspect your property, do an assessment of it and then determine how to move forward with restorations.
Storm DamageStorms bring about many natural disasters from wildfires to hurricanes, tornadoes and blizzards. There is no escaping storm damage, but we know how to navigate it and remove its traces.
Storm and water damage can go beyond property damage and damage or destroy your personal belongings, too. In these cases, we apply content restoration, believing that there is no need to replace what can be restored.
Some of our many services include dry cleaning, wet cleaning, foam cleansing and abrasive cleaning. If your require a deep-clean, we do that too by offering move-out services, so we can bring your home back to preloss condition in minimum time.
What Sets SERVPRO Apart?We’re not just here for you, we’re here for you 24⁄7. Since natural disasters have no set schedule, neither do we. Available all day every day, we can be reached via our 24⁄7 Emergency Line.
On top of this, our experts in green are part of the No. 1 cleanup and restoration team in the nation with more than 50 years experience. We’re locally owned and have a small company feel, but we’re backed by a network of more than 1,900 locations around the United States.
Regardless of the type of damage sustained, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when you need a reliable team to help you rebuild your life.
A Water Damage Timeline | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
4/29/2022 (Permalink)
No matter the damage sustained, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has the tools and team to help your home return to a normal state quickly.
One thing’s for sure, you don’t have time to deal with water damage. Unfortunately, that won’t stop it from affecting your home.
Something as seemingly insignificant as a leaky faucet or a small water spot could have a destructive effect on your home. This is because water could be lurking in places you can’t see.
An average household leak can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water in a year.
Water damage progresses rapidly, permeating your floors, walls and soft surfaces. That’s why it’s important to address the issue right away, rather than put it off. Here’s how quickly water can corrupt the integrity of your home:
In the First 24 HoursIf you live in a house, there is a one in four chance of a flood damaging your home within a 30-year period in a high-risk area. Knowing what to do next is essential.
You need to take steps within the first 24 to 48 hours after flooding or water damage in order to save your home from further damage. Unfortunately, some items will immediately fall victim to water’s disastrous effects. These include things like upholstered furniture, wood surfaces and personal belongings like books and photographs.
Luckily, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton operates with the mindset of “restoring vs. replacing” because we know how important these items are to you. This will help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced.
We will be sure to remove any salvageable items as quickly as possible, so they can dry. We will let you know if anything cannot be saved.
In a WeekAfter the first 24 hours, water damage will become much worse as mold sets in and spreads like wildfire. This, along with the excess moisture, will become to affect the structure of your home.
In addition, porous surfaces such as wood surfaces and walls will become increasingly compromised, and metal surfaces will start corroding.
Past Seven DaysWhen you left water sit in your home for over a week, it may get to the point of no return. By this point, the structure will be extremely compromised, and the costs and efforts to restore the structure of your home will be high.
How SERVPRO Can HelpGive SERVPRO a call as soon as possible, preferably within the first 24 hours. As soon as we hear from you, our experts will get to work to restore your home. We start by extracting any excess water in the home to prevent it from spreading any further.
It is likely your floors, furniture and other belongings will require cleaning, sanitizing and deodorization. After we have removed most of the water, our specialists will use industry-leading drying equipment to remove the water you can’t see.
After we have address all these areas, your home may still require some restoration work, and this could include either minor or major repairs.
Allow our team to simplify the restoration process for you by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. SERVPRO will keep you up to date on every step and have you back in your home or business in no time.
Regardless of the type of water damage sustained, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover. Contact us 24⁄7 when you need a dependable team to help you recover.
Commercial Systems Prone to Water Damage: SERVPRO of Dublin/Claxton/Vidalia
4/29/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Dublin/Claxton/Vidalia 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. 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 Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton 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!
(912) 538-1323
Tips to Stay Safe during Fire Damage: SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
3/29/2022 (Permalink)
No matter how serious your property damage may be, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is your local expert for restoring your home or business.
It's that time of year again - fire season in Dublin, 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 Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton. 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!
Spring Weather Hazards in Georgia | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
3/7/2022 (Permalink)
Extreme temperature changes can lead to severe weather. SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is a click away if you experience any damage.
The United States is one of the world’s largest countries, second only to Russia and Canada in terms of total land area (though China is larger if all outlying US territories are excluded).
Seasonal weather isn’t one-size-fits all in a country with such a large and diverse territory under one umbrella—various parts of the nation experience distinct weather patterns, and hence face weather threats of differing degrees throughout the course of the year.
As spring approaches and warm and cold air masses meet throughout the country, let’s take a look at what different weather events to anticipate in some of the main regions, as well as what we need to be aware of here in Georgia.
During the spring months, the Pacific Northwest is prone to severe rain, which may bring floods and water damage to homeowners. Snow will continue fall at higher altitudes, and the melting and runoff from that will bring issues of its own.
The Upper Midwest and Northeast have the longest winters to face as cold weather will stick around for the whole season. Extreme cold and the threat of snowstorms and blizzards may be expected stretching from Maine to the Dakotas until late spring or perhaps early summer, when temperatures begin to rise.
On the other hand, the southern West Coast will have to watch out for excessive heat waves that could endanger lives and safety, and the South Pacific, including Hawaii, will be on the lookout for possible tsunamis caused by tectonic activity.
Windstorms, derechos and the possibility of wildfires will be a concern for the center of the nation, from Iowa to Texas. Wildfires can readily spread when winds are strong and seasons are dry. And, of course, part of this region is Tornado Alley, which has a high frequency of tornadoes.
Finally, extreme weather is possible in the Southeast, including here in Georgia, ranging from tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in landlocked states to hazardous rip currents on the coast and hurricanes in the spring. Thunderstorms are common in Georgia, particularly in the spring and summer months. Oftentimes, remnants of tropical storms coming in from coastal states can also cause severe flooding.
Extreme weather is a considerable hazard in the United States, regardless of where you live. Yours may differ from your friend’s a few states away, but knowing how to be prepared is always a good idea.
If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.
Our Commercial Drying Specialists are Water Damage Restoration Experts | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
2/28/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is ready to respond immediately and effectively to any and all of your property damage restoration needs!
If your business experiences a water damage emergency in Dublin, GA or Vidalia, GA it is crucial to hire a professional local restoration company with advanced experience in water damage mitigation. SERVPRO of Dublin / Vidalia / Claxton has extensive knowledge and training in water damage restoration, and our certified technicians are experts in the field. We understand the importance of timely mitigation and thoroughly drying your commercial property, and our team is equipped to handle any size water cleanup job.
Why is the CDS certification important for Commercial Water Damage Restoration?
The Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) certification is one of the highest levels of certification offered by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). To achieve CDS certification, technicians must demonstrate expertise in the water damage restoration process. This certification confirms that they have the service expertise necessary to dry especially complex building structures such as commercial buildings, industrial facilities, institutional buildings, and high-value furniture, fixtures, and equipment.
Our SERVPRO Technicians who obtain this certification have demonstrated the necessary work ethic, attention to detail, and technical skillset to handle any size water damage mitigation project. From a small residential water loss, all the way up to 100,000 square feet or more of flood-damaged building materials in your structure, our CDS certified technicians can handle your structural flood project smoothly and successfully.
Commercial Drying Specialists who pass the certification exam must demonstrate a deep understanding of building analysis and anatomy, advanced inspection methods, understand advanced moisture psychrometric ideas, and administer and manage any kind of large water drying project.
Advanced Water Damage Inspection & Evaluation
Large commercial water damage projects require a specialized approach to water damage evaluation. The unique building materials and specialized construction methods used in commercial, institutional, and industrial facilities introduce moisture complexities that require the deep knowledge of a CDS SERVPRO technician. That is why our certified SERVPRO team members are trained extensively to identify and assess building property damage effectively using the multitude of advanced assessment tools and equipment that SERVPRO provides for them.
Commercial Restoration Process Administration
When your office, factory, or production facility experiences a flood, the damage can go beyond just the wet building materials. Downtime and reduced production capacity can cause your business to lose money. When you call us for service, our Commercial Drying Specialists understand this. That is why they are trained in the proper structural repair and restoration processes to control and mitigate the water damage while establishing a water repairs process that maximizes your facility's production ability considering the hazards presented by your large water loss. That includes working around the clock and off-hours, sealing off affected or dangerous structural areas, working in phases to clean and remove damage, and employing consistent daily communication with your business's leadership team so you can plan your business's daily work activities accordingly.
Technical & Cutting-Edge Restoration Methods
From restoring any type of water and mold-affected flooring to working around industrial electrical equipment safely, our SERVPRO technicians know what it takes to immediately mitigate your business's property damage and work to get it effectively restored. Different types of building materials require different cleaning, disinfection, and drying methods. After evaluating the water damage, our CDS certified SERVPRO professionals plan their response to save as many building materials as possible to minimize your costs and downtime. The water damage restoration process is very different when you need to cleanup after a toilet overflow versus when you have to dry an entire factory while keeping your production equipment running. We can handle both types of water damage and everything in between.
Conclusion
SERVPRO of Dublin / Vidalia / Claxton is Faster to Any Size Disaster no matter how large your water restoration project may be. Our service professionals will thoroughly inspect your structure, and restore any kind of wet material. From cleaning mold and rapidly drying flood damage, our local SERVPRO team has the resources to respond to your project immediately and arrive when you need us.
Call today! We'll leave your property damage "Like it never even happened." (912) 538-1323
With These Tips, You Can Avoid a Fire in Your Commercial Kitchen
2/21/2022 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all of your commercial damage restoration needs
If you operate a restaurant, bar, or commercial kitchen in Toombs Central, GA, or Vidalia, GA, it is critical to reduce fire danger. In 2017 alone, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fire departments responded to over 7,410 building fires caused by kitchens in restaurants and bars. Commercial kitchens suffer annual losses of $165 million in property damage and an average of three deaths as a result of kitchen fires that are typically preventable. These suggestions can help you and your staff stay safe while avoiding fire code infractions that might cause shutdowns.
What Are the Ducting and Air Movement Criteria for Fire Prevention?
The NFPA 96 Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations' Chapter 7, which is dedicated to ventilation control and fire protection, covers all of this in detail. Keep the following points in mind as well:
Commercial kitchen ducts should never share an exhaust system with the structure's ventilation or have obstructed access panels. While avoiding these measures might save money in the short term, the fire risk rises significantly. If you do not pay attention to this, your commercial kitchen work will most likely not be accepted at inspection.
At least 18 inches away from the kitchen ducts, keep combustible materials away. This is based on Section 4.2 of the NFPA 96. It's easy to overlook this once the kitchen is in use. Ducts also produce a lot of radiant heat, which might cause flammable materials like boxes or cups to catch fire.
If you want to learn more about the many sorts of combustible and non-combustible materials that should or should not be kept near a duct, look into NFPA Chapter 3.
What Are My Commercial Kitchen Fire Extinguisher Requirements?
"The NFPA 96 requires automated fire suppression equipment for all grease removal devices, hood exhaust plenums, and exhaust duct systems in a commercial kitchen, as well as any cooking equipment that produces grease-laden vapors." - Koorsen Fire & Security
The NFPA 96 says that Class K fire extinguishers should be used in combination with automatic fire-extinguishing systems. These extinguishers are also marked with warning signs that identify their class. Portable extinguishers should not be used to put out kitchen fires in commercial buildings unless the automatic fire-extinguishing system has been turned on. This is because high-efficiency cooking equipment can reach high temperatures, which can turn vegetable oils into dangerous flammable fuels. When oil ignites at these high temperatures, it's often already too hot for a portable extinguisher to handle.
Another standard that you should familiarize yourself with is the UL 300 standard.
According to this article by Insureon, a kitchen's cooking equipment must meet the following UL 300 standards:
The hood, ducts, and above each cooking appliance must have fire-extinguishing nozzles. Both gas and electric power sources must have an automatic fuel shut-off option. For all power sources, a manual fuel shut-off button must be provided. A wet-chemical fire-extinguishing system must meet UL 300 criteria - one of which is undergoing semiannual checkups by a certified professional.
If you need immediate assistance after a fire, our teams are available 24/7/365. With our promise of being Faster to Any Size Disaster, you can count on SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to be there when it counts. Call us today at (912) 538-1323 for rapid assistance.
Do You Have a Business Disaster Plan? | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
2/19/2022 (Permalink)
If the day comes where your business is hit with disaster or emergency, you can rest assured SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton will be there to help.
You’ve got a lot on your plate. Starting and running a business is not only a full-time job, it’s more like an overtime job.
Your responsibilities include tireless hours managing staffing, inventory, marketing and so much more. One thing you might not be prepared for is the event of a disaster striking your beloved business. You’ve worked hard to get where you are, and we want to help you be prepared in case the worst happens.
When a flood, fire, storm or heaven forbid, another pandemic comes knocking at your business’ door, it can be difficult to open back up. According to FEMA, 40% of small businesses have to shut down permanently after a disaster, and a quarter of those that do have the ability to open back up actually have shut their doors for good in under a year.
So what can you do to give yourself a fighting chance against disaster? The answer isn’t as complicated as you might think. The answer is to have a plan!
In the U.S., three-fourths of small businesses don’t have any disaster plan in place. We want to help your business have the best chance of a comeback when a disaster strikes.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton can help you prepare by developing a personalized Emergency Ready Plan specifically for your business. We assess your concerns regarding your specific location and industry.
With our Emergency Ready Plan, we’ll cover everything together from a tornado to data recovery, just in case the worst happens to your business—you don’t have to wonder what to do.
Don’t make reopening after a disaster any more difficult than it already would be. SERVPRO can help you build your Emergency Ready Plan. It could be the difference between your business surviving or closing for good.
When your business is ready to prioritize planning and safety to prevent extended downtime, contact SERVPRO to get the Emergency Ready Plan underway from the folks who know all there is to know about disaster and recovery.
We’re Ready Around the Clock | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
2/19/2022 (Permalink)
If a fire issue pops up during the holidays, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton.
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 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 can cause health effects and damage your home's structure. 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.
Thorough Water Cleanup From the Pros | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
2/19/2022 (Permalink)
When water damage strikes, make the call to SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for A-to-Z cleanup and restoration.
Here’s an unreal statistic—every day some 14,000 Americans encounter a water damage incident at home.
Now we certainly hope you’re never one of those 14,000. But should the day ever come, your expert friends at SERVPRO will be here to help.
Here’s a look into the in-depth process your elite team will kick into action when you click or call for help.
Emergency Contact. We want to get to work right away, and that starts with making a game plan. When you call us with your emergency, we’ll ask some guiding questions to get a good grip on what’s going on. Then we’ll make an appointment for in-person and inspection, to be fulfilled in short order.
Inspection and Water Damage Assessment. Once we arrive on site, we’ll make sure your water source isn’t still flowing, and put a stop to it if it is. Then we’ll assess the damage and make determinations about what is going to have to be replaced, and what can be restored. We’ll also warn you about any potential hazards resulting from the existing damage.
Water Removal. Depending on your particular situation, your home may be filled with hundreds, even thousands, of gallons of water. We’ll use all the considerable power of our industrial pumps and water vacs to get rid of the bulk of it quickly, so we can get to work on the restoration process.
Damaged Material Removal. Our goal is restoration first, but not everything will make it. We’ll remove the things that can’t be salvaged to keep a safe environment during the drying process, and their removal will promote the drying process of the things that are in line for restoration.
Cleaning, Sanitizing and Deodorization. We don’t have to tell you that water can make a real mess of your home. Once the water is cleared out, we can start scrubbing, getting rid of stains, toxins and odors all that water can leave behind.
Drying. This is drying like you’ve never seen—in fact, you probably can’t see the leftover moisture to begin with, but our HEPA vacuums will pull excess water molecules from every surface, reducing the opporunity for mold to begin or continue growing in your home.
Monitoring. All the while, we’ll be keeping a watchful eye over the whole process, making sure plans and equipment run smoothly, and making adjustments as necessary.
Repairs and Construction. Once drying is complete and moisture is managed, the healing of your home continues through repair, replacement and if needed, reconstruction.
When water is the issue, we have the solution. We’ve been practicing for more than 50 years, and we’re ready to tackle the need, whatever it may be.
When water damage strikes, make the call to SERVPRO for A-to-Z cleanup and restoration. We’ll make your damaged property look “Like it never even happened.”
Every Fire Has 4 Basic Building Blocks | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
2/19/2022 (Permalink)
If your home or business has any damage, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is ready around the clock to help you recover.
A simple visual aid can be the difference between someone understanding a concept or remaining confused. Fire, for example, is an incredibly complex subject, but a humble geometric shape can be used to help us make sense of its fundamental elements.
Fire agencies refer to it the fire tetrahedron, and it consists of four triangular sides, each of which represent an element that is essential to the life of any fire.
Without any one of these present, a fire can’t live, which also tells us a few things about how we can use these foundational elements against a fire.
The 4 Things a Fire Needs to LiveFuel. You want to grow big and strong, don’t you? Then do what Mom said and eat your proteins and veggies. And if any fire wants to grow, it needs to eat, too—but it can eat a lot more things than you can.
Heat. Any flammable material has an ignition point, and this point is reached as the material is heated. If you’ve ever had hot oil catch fire in a cooking pan, you know how quickly this can happen once the proper temperature is reached.
Oxygen. Oxidation is key to the combustion process of a fire, which means the fire has to consume and exhaust the oxygen from the surrounding atmosphere.
Chemical Chain Reaction. All these things not only have to combine at the same time, but they have to keep combining in a chain reaction in order for a fire to live.
The 4 Ways to Stop a FireCool it. Get your water bucket ready, because one of the most effective ways to stop a fire is to counteract the heat by cooling the fuel, and getting it back to a state of thermal balance.
Smother it. When you stop, drop and roll to stop a clothing fire, or when you use a fire blanket to stop a sudden, wild flare-up on the grill, you’re taking action to deprive the fire of the oxygen it needs, thus ending the catalytic reaction.
Starve it. A fire that can’t eat can’t live. Removing the fuel source can achieve this end, or it will happen naturally once the fire consumes everything it can.
Interrupt the chain reaction. This is a little more scientific than we’ll get into in-depth, but certain gases are able to counteract the actual chemical reaction that keeps a fire going. These are used in certain fire extinguishers, especially in scenarios in which it’s important for water not to be used, such as when electrical equipment is nearby.
If the fire tetrahedron makes a wreck of your home or business, we’re ready around the clock to help you recover. Contact SERVPRO anytime for fast, thorough cleanup and recovery after a fire.
SERVPRO Does More Than You Realize | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
2/19/2022 (Permalink)
When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to get the job done.
When you see a SERVPRO van around town, you may think of a couple of things. You probably have a vague idea about what we do—we help homeowners with some kind of cleaning or something, right? But that may be as far as your knowledge goes.
The thing is, we want you to know everything we do, because it may be helpful to you one day. So let’s talk turkey and get specific today, because there are more ways SERVPRO can help you than you’d imagine.
Water damage recovery. If you know us for one specific thing, this may be it. Homes take on water damage from sources as varied as flooding, groundwater or washing machine hoses, and we’ve spent more than 50 years helping homeowners recover from it all.
Fire damage recovery. There’s another home fire every 23 seconds in the U.S., and while that’s less frequent than in decades past, that’s still a lot of fires. We help homeowners all over the country get past the damage caused by these fires.
Mold removal. Mold can cause health effects or even threaten the structure of your home as it degrades materials. We can get rid of it fully and safely.
Storm recovery. Destructive storms are a reality of living in the United States, and we help homeowners bounce back after tornadoes, thunderstorms or other weather events cause damage great and small.
Commercial needs. We offer all these helps and more to business owners and commercial enterprises of every kind, from offices to business parks, classrooms to casinos.
General cleaning. The carpet doesn’t have to be soaked for you to call SERVPRO—maybe it’s simply in need of a good scrub. We can take care of all your cleaning needs, from flooring to furniture and more.
Specialty cleaning. We can clean up graffiti sites in public areas, restore documents for businesses and offer a variety of non-traditional cleaning services. If you can think it, we can clean it.
Construction. Sometimes you need more than cleaning. When storms, fires or water cause large-scale damage, we can be your one-call solution for total reconstruction, or even for a remodel project you’ve been planning.
Add 24-hour service and an easy insurance process to all this, and the picture becomes clear—when you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO to get the job done.
The Serious Hazards That Thunderstorms Present | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
6/22/2021 (Permalink)
Thunderstorms can pop up at any moment. Contact SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton if you experience any damage.
During the warmer months of the year, thunderstorms occur with quite a bit of regularity as conditions for them become very favorable. Though they may start to feel rather routine, it is important to take every thunderstorm seriously as they all present the potential for damages.
Each thunderstorm will bring the potential for heavy rains, extreme winds and lightning strikes, and can cause hail and flash flooding as well.
Thunderstorms always contain both thunder and lightning, which are quite dangerous on their own. If a thunderstorm is elevated to severe, it will also contain hail larger than an inch around and winds faster than 58 miles per hour, making the situation even more extreme. Because of the dangers of all of these conditions, it is vital that you make sure you are taking thunderstorms seriously.
Why Thunderstorms Should Be Taken Seriously
Damage and injury from lightning strikes. If there is thunder present, the storm will always also contain lightning strikes, whether they are striking between the clouds or towards the ground. Lightning is a powerful thing that is documented as causing a minimum of 300 injuries every year. In addition to causing physical harm, lightning can also cause significant property damage due to fires and felled trees.
Property damage due to hail. Though not every thunderstorm contains hail, the ones that do are generally more serious than the ones that do not. Hail can fall with tremendous speeds from the sky, causing damage to anyone who is not adequately sheltered. Additionally, hail can cause serious property damage if it impacts the roof or siding of a home, as it can provide easy access for water damage to begin.
Harm from flash flooding. Flash flooding is something that can happen anywhere, at any time and in a very short period. When it is raining heavily, flash flooding becomes extremely likely due to storm drains becoming overwhelmed. This means that flash flooding can happen nearly anywhere and put everyone in the area in danger. In just a few inches of water, a car can be carried away or a person can be knocked off their feet.
Thunderstorms are dangerous and can cause significant damage to homes or commercial spaces. If you have damage due to a thunderstorm, you can count on us to help. Contact us 24⁄7 for more information about our storm restoration practices.
Indicators That Your Basement Has Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
6/22/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is a full restoration company. Our restoration experts are on call and ready to help you determine the best course.
Purchasing or living in a home that has a basement is a great option for many families. Basements provide extra storage, supplemental safety from severe weather threats and can even add to the square footage of your home if they are finished living spaces.
Overall, a basement is a wonderful asset—but it is important that homeowners know how to care for it.
While many basements will last the lifetime of a home without water damage incidents, it is vital that homeowners understand what could possibly happen in case there are issues in the future.
Understanding what to look for early on will help you catch any water damage before it balloons into a major issue, making it much easier (and cheaper) to handle. If you do ever notice any of these indicators of water damage, it is important to contact us right away.
What to Watch Out for in Regard to Basement Water Damage
Unpleasant, musky odors. The majority of water damage incidents we see in basements involves “clean” water (i.e. rainwater or runoff), but even still, the water can become unpleasant and murky over time. As the water evaporates, it can leave behind a pungent odor that many people find to be synonymous with basements that is a result of mold and mildew developing at the site.
Flaking paint on masonry or walls. There is a common misconception that painting a water damaged area will help “seal the water in,” but unfortunately, this is not the case. While paint can mask water damage for a time, it does little more than cover up the issue. Eventually, paint will begin to flake, bubble, crack or peel as evidence of the water damage that is actively occurring underneath.
Foundational cracks. As a home settles and shifts with weather and age, it is not uncommon for small cracks to develop throughout the home. As long as these remain hairline cracks, there is no cause for concern. However, if larger cracks develop on walls, ceilings or in the floor that is a sign that there is potentially water damage and you should have someone come take a look right away.
If you notice any of these signs in your basement, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more.
Backyard Fire Safety | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
6/22/2021 (Permalink)
Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to learn more.
Many of us spend most of the fall and winter looking ahead to the spring and summer months. We yearn for the warmer weather, and the longer days.
There’s just something about it that feels fresh and inviting. Nature beckons us outdoors, and we spend more time enjoying nature.
We might even decide to get serious about those New Year’s goals we set back in January. Or maybe they’ll wait another month…
These months also typically include a bevy of backyard activities—cookouts, family reunions, gender reveals and graduation celebrations all call us to break out the grill and party. But this season also brings with it an increase in fire activity across the country.
In fact, spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year. But with a little attention, you can ensure all your backyard plans go off without a hitch this year.
The grill. Let’s face it; grills are potential hazards, no matter how much we may love using them. Always make sure your grill works and is free of damage or leaks. Use it responsibly and never add liquid accelerants. And clean that thing after you’re done—almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.
The fire pit. If you love to gather around a pit with friends, just be sure you’re doing it responsibly. Never use leaves or pine needles to add to the fire, as they may create flying embers. Never allow an unattended fire, or unattended children or pets near it. And keep a bucket of water at arm’s length to take care of any errant flames, and to slowly douse the fire until it’s cool when you’re done.
Chimneys and dryer vents. While you’re thinking about fire safety anyway, go ahead and get your chimney cleaned so you’re not burning into a dangerous soot buildup in the fall. And check your dryer’s vent pipe for highly flammable lint trapped inside.
Your local SERVPRO technicians are on hand 24⁄7 for emergencies. If you encounter fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we will be there faster and have it cleaned up sooner. Call or click today and experience the SERVPRO difference.
Let Us Create a Safe Environment for Your Customers and Employees | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
6/22/2021 (Permalink)
If you’re business has sanitation and cleaning needs, get in touch with the SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton team.
With regional seats like Macon and smaller areas like Dublin and Vidalia finally experiencing reprieve from the COVID-19 pandemic, signs are abundant that what we once called “normal” life is making a comeback, and business owners are part of that collective expectation.
But customers and workers alike are now more aware than ever of the potential risks in shared spaces, and they want to be assured that your concern for their well-being doesn’t stop with the end of COVID-19 restrictions.
The people who enter your building need to know their health is as much in the forefront of your mind as your profit margin—they need to know your business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.
Get Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program gives customers and business teams the security they need when returning back to physical business locations by providing the ultimate level of cleanliness and sanitation, far beyond traditional janitorial services.
Call to mind the cleanest your building has ever been. Now add in a blend of state-of-the-art biohazard procedures and technologies that far outshine traditional cleaning methods—now you’re beginning to get the idea.
What makes this program so special? Let’s look at the three C’s of a Certified: SERVPRO Clean:
Consult. There’s no other business quite like yours, and we understand that you have a specific set of cleaning and sanitation needs. We’ll work with you to find out what those are, and how we can best implement the necessary solutions. It helps that every SERVPRO office is locally owned and operated, so we are already aware of many intricacies of central Georgia.
Clean. Once we’ve got a feel for the needs of your business, we’ll start putting our tools and technicians to work. We’ll be on site with proprietary, ultra-high-grade cleaning solutions and techniques not available from anyone else. Your building will be operating at an extreme level of clean, one that always meets or exceeds strict standards established by the CDC. This addresses any continued concerns about the spread of the coronavirus, but it goes much deeper, reducing the risk of illness or infection from a host of airborne and surface borne pathogens.
Certify. Your teams and customers will know before they even walk in that you’ve gone the extra mile to protect them, because you’ll be displaying the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield in your window or on your door. This lets everyone who passes know that your business has done what few are willing to do to put customer well-being first.
If you’re ready to get serious about sanitation and have your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, get in touch today to get the best team in cleanup and restoration on your side.
Ready to sell? Old tenants moving out? Let us help you get your home ready.
5/13/2021 (Permalink)
Whether you are trying to sell your home or you have renters moving out or even after a water loss in your home, getting your house ready for new people can be very exhausting.
When it comes to selling your home, it can be extremely overwhelming working with realtors, inspections, and potential buyers.
Lucky for you, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is happy to clean your house and get it ready for showings and the sale. With our highly trained crews, we are prepared to help with any cleaning task ranging from mold remediation to deodorization to general cleaning services including carpet cleanings. We have helped many homeowners prepare and sell their homes with a top to bottom cleaning. We have also helped a lot of apartment complexes clean after the lease ends and a new one is beginning.
Our thorough cleaning services can include wiping ceilings and walls, trim, the exterior of baseboard registers, and cleaning the inside and outside of kitchen and bathroom appliances. Window cleaning and floor cleaning are a great way to finish the project up and add the final sparkle to your fresh home.
We would be happy to set up a time for an estimator to come onsite to answer any questions you may have, and to get you a good idea of what the project would entail and cost. SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is always here to help.
What to do if you find water in your light fixtures
5/11/2021 (Permalink)
Your roof is the crowning element of your home in Dublin,GA, and you expect that it will protect your family for the duration of your lifetime there. But sometimes a leak can occur because of lack of maintenance, a broken pipe in the ceiling or damage from a storm. A leak can cause all kinds of damage, but often the first indication of a problem is finding water in light fixtures.
What To do If You Find Water in a Light Fixture
Discovering that water is dripping through a ceiling fixture can be the start of a nightmare, especially if it is not handled correctly. Here are some guidelines to help you understand some of the steps that need to be taken.
If the damage is from a storm, you will need to have the roof repaired and have a water and mold restoration company come and check for wood rot or black mold in the crawlspace and have the roof repaired.
If you have water in light fixtures because of a broken pipe in the ceiling, the first thing you need to do is shut off the water main so it stops flooding.
Turn off the electricity to that light fixture so you don’t get electrocuted – electricity and water can be a lethal mix.
What To do Next
Once the power and water have been shut off, a specialist in Lenox Square,GA should inspect for ceiling damage and help determine what is needed for repair. The sheetrock will likely need to come down and the crawl space dried thoroughly. Insulation and sheetrock may need to be replaced and the wiring needs to be evaluated for safety. The light fixture may need to be replaced as well, rather than risking electrical danger.
Never overlook water in light fixtures, as it is a sign of something that needs to be checked out, Hoping it will just dry out and go away could be a serious mistake. Make sure your roof is in good repair and have your pipes inspected to help prevent future problems.
Steps To Take To Mitigate Roof Damage
5/11/2021 (Permalink)
Steps To Take To Mitigate Roof Damage
When you have a Vidalia,GA, home roof damage from the weather may be something you’re concerned about. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to help mitigate this possibility. Here are a few things that many storm damage restoration professionals recommend to help protect your home.
1. It’s Best To Act Quickly if Damage is Found
Not all damage comes from hail or rain. Wind damage, and extensive sun can also lead to some problems with your roof. Knowing what to look for can allow you to act quickly when signs of damage are found. Doing so may help mitigate long-term costs by preventing the damage from growing.
2. The Roof Should Be Inspected Regularly
Many experts recommend looking over your home for roof damage at least twice a year. Doing so may help you spot potential issues that needs to be taken care of before damage has a chance to grow any worse. You may also want to inspect your roof after any large storms. If you're unsure what to look for, or if what you found counts as damage, then a professional may be able to do an assessment.
3. Protect the Roof Until Repairs Can Be Made
In the event you find damage on your roof, protective measures can be taken. Calling a professional as soon as you suspect damage may have occurred can help you schedule a repair appointment before things can get any worse. They may also recommend that you place a tarp or board over damaged area to prevent further issues.
When working to protect your home from roof damage it's important to remember that any potential problems should be taken care of as quickly as possible. Many experts recommend looking your roof over at least twice a year and after any major storms. If you do find damage you can protect your home by placing tarps or boards over the area until a professional can arrive.
4 Water-Related Problems to Watch For
5/11/2021 (Permalink)
4 Water-Related Problems to Watch For
The structural integrity of your commercial property in Dublin,GA, relies on an intact, dependable plumbing system. When something goes wrong, such as a blocked sewer, it can cause significant water damage that can end up costing thousands of dollars to repair. Keeping an eye out for signs of trouble can help you fix a problem before it gets too out of hand.
Old Sewer Lines
If your building has cast iron sewer lines, they may have been installed more than 25 years ago. While they are sturdy, nothing lasts forever. Some signs that your sewer lines are deteriorating include:
- Frequent drain clogs
- Sludge or warped appearance in landscaping
- Smell of sewer gas
If you call your plumber early, you may be able to repair the most worn out pipes. Otherwise, your blocked sewer could mean you need to replace the whole system.
Pipe Damage
Whether inside or underneath your building, pipe breaks can cause quite a bit of damage. Factors such as extreme temperatures and poor water quality can weaken pipes. Call water restoration specialists as soon as you notice the problem in order to avoid secondary damage such as mold growth.
Toilet Backup
A common occurrence in commercial buildings is toilet overflow. A clogged toilet on one floor can not only cause problems in that restroom but also in the floor below as it seeps down through the ceiling. Have restrooms checked frequently not just for cleanliness but also for necessary maintenance.
Foundation Damage
Over time, plumbing problems can dampen and displace your soil, affecting the stability of your building's foundation. If your foundation cracks, you will likely see the effects when cracks show up on your exterior walls or when the building shift makes doors harder to open and close.
A blocked sewer doesn't just affect your plumbing system; it can cause problems throughout your building. Fast detection and remediation are the keys to minimizing the damage sewer problems can cause.
Navigating the Aftermath of a House Fire | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/5/2021 (Permalink)
Experiencing an event as devastating as a house fire is something that takes time to recover from, both emotionally and physically. Even small, quickly extinguished fires can cause damage throughout a home that must be dealt with to keep your family safe.
While recovering quickly is important, recovering safely is the most important thing—that is why we have put together some helpful guidelines for house fire recovery with safety in mind.
Helpful Guidelines for House Fire Recovery
Prepare yourself for what to expect. While some fires may cause charring, odor and not much else in the way of damage, others may require firefighters to take extreme actions to battle the flames. It can be difficult to determine from the outside how extensive the fire damage is, so be sure you are mentally prepared to see the damages firsthand.
Wait to enter your home. Fires can cause quite a bit of hidden structural damage throughout the home, which is why you should never enter a fire-damaged building until it is deemed safe. The risk of injury and further harm is too high, so always consult with your local officials and wait for their approval before you head inside.
Contact your insurance company. Every insurance policy provides different coverages and processes as part of your agreement, so it is important to check with them early on to get details on how to file your claim. They will be able to give you personalized advice on how to proceed and maximize your claim in accordance with your specific policy.
Document the damages. Though dealing with the details regarding damaged belongings is unpleasant, documenting everything thoroughly will be helpful to you and to your insurance company as you file a claim. Make an inventory list of everything that has been impacted by the fire and be sure to take plenty of photos as well.
Contact your restoration company. Being able to count on your restoration company in a stressful time can make the entire process more pleasant. The stress of experiencing a house fire is serious, but having a team you can trust to help you pick up the pieces is a fantastic way to feel better about the whole scenario.
If your home is damaged in a house fire, you can count on us to help you. Get in touch at any hour for a quick response.
Services Provided to Restaurants
5/5/2021 (Permalink)
Restaurants are some of the most commonly flooded businesses in America, as they are prone to some risk factors that can lead to significant water and flood damage year-round. Many restaurants that are located near rivers, creeks, lakes, or shores, making them vulnerable to heavy rainfalls which cause banks to overflow. Restaurants also have high amounts of water usage as compared to other businesses, which can lead to more interior and clear water flooding than in other commercial establishments. Fortunately, SERVPRO knows how to get a restaurant's doors back open as quickly as possible after these damages, through a few key services.
Inventory and Stock Management
One of the most difficult tasks to accomplish alone after commercial water damage is to take inventory of what has been lost, damaged, or left alone in the building. Everything from furniture to valuable kitchen equipment to food stock can be accounted for and should be, for insurance purposes. SERVPRO can help you to keep track of your losses and get proper repayment from an insurer after the event is said and done.
Rapid Restoration Services
We have access to a wide variety of powerful tools and machines to help accelerate the process of water removal and restoration, including high-powered air movers, water extractors, deodorizing foggers, UV sanitizers, and more. When used strategically, these machines help businesses to open doors quicker than expected after even the worst water damage.
Cohesive Teams and Helpful Policies
We strive to ensure that a restaurant owner understands the process of restoration and can talk to our teams and representatives. Also, our staff is assembled in a way that encourages cohesiveness and cooperation. This also extends to our "white collar" representatives, who can present documentation to insurance adjusters and regulators with maximum efficacy.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is a trusted local source of commercial repairs and restorations. Contact us at (912) 538-1323 for our help with your disaster in inconvenience.
Community and CE Courses
5/5/2021 (Permalink)
A few times throughout the year, SERVPRO of Houston County, Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, offers continuing education classes to the Insurance, Real Estate and Property Management industries. These classes allow the attendees to earn credits for their respective fields, or to just be better informed of industry standards and best practices. One of our more recent and popular classes is centered on Biohazards and Bio- recovery procedures. This has proved to be a very informative class for all that attend. If you would like to learn more about our Continuing Education schedule, please call the office at (912)538-1323 or send us an email to howell.servpro@gmail.com to be put on our alert mailing list.
Be mindful of yearly inspections
5/5/2021 (Permalink)
If you are a commercial or residential property manager or condo association member, you should be dreading the swirling wind emoji on the accuweather app every bit as much as the single and negative temperatures we face this weekend.
Here are a few reminders from SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton...
Make random inspections of heat and air units, particularly those with external access. Specifically, look for insulation that has settled and no longer covers pipes as intended.
Reinspect any plumbing or external work to make sure proper installation is in place and that there are no vents where cold air can blow in.
Check doors, windows and heat in vacant units.
Remind tenants of protocol for reporting any water situation and not to ignore any signs of water intrusion or leaking. Let them know you are prepared for anything that happens.
If you have vacancies, you should consider relocation options for renters in the event there is displacement.
Make sure your on-call crews are ready to roll and that there is back up. There should also be clear protocol for structural emergencies that includes calling our TEAM of Experts at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your water, fire, or mold remediation needs!
An invaluable tool offered by SERVPRO is an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP), please visit our blog to find more information on this free service and how your commercial properties can benefit by being prepared for "whatever happens!"
We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!
Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property
5/5/2021 (Permalink)
Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property
Fire damage, no matter the size, can affect every square inch of your property. It can travel through air ducts, burn through ceilings and floors, and damage countless pieces of equipment and documents.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has access to thousands of pieces of equipment and hundreds of personnel to help mitigate even the largest fire damage. Our experienced technicians utilize industry knowledge, training, experience, high-tech equipment, and proprietary cleaning products to perform emergency services to meet our customer’s cleaning and restoration needs.
Performed immediately following a loss in order to reduce property and content damage, our emergency services reduce claims’ expense, and minimize customer disruption.
While the types of emergency services we provide vary, our emergency response includes:
- Boarding up the structure and securing the property to help prevent intrusions.
- Drying the structure. Water is often used to extinguish a fire, so excess water or moisture must be monitored and removed.
- Deodorization of the affected areas.
- Pre-testing and initial cleaning. Initial cleaning may help prevent additional damage caused by soot residue, and pre-testing allows the technician to determine what can be restored to help eliminate needless and costly expenses.
- Conducting building inspections to evaluate the loss site for any safety or health hazards.
Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your Fire Restoration needs!
If you own your own business, it is important that you are prepared for whatever might come your way—and not just in regard to market fluctuations.
5/4/2021 (Permalink)
If you own your own business, it is important that you are prepared for whatever might come your way—and not just in regard to market fluctuations.
Emergencies and disasters are extremely common and often happen with little notice, which means that it is important to have a plan in place to take care of yourself and your staff just in case. One of the ways you can do this is by stocking an office emergency kit with necessary supplies for all of your staff in case you must seek shelter at work while there is danger present.
Why Stock an Office Emergency Kit? Stocking an office emergency kit is one of the best things you can do to keep yourself and your staff safe in case of an emergency.
While some emergency scenarios will require you to evacuate (and you should plan accordingly, just in case), scenarios such as severe weather might mean you need to stay put where you are until the threat has passed and/or help can arrive.
By having an emergency kit stocked and ready, you can be certain that you and your staff have enough food and water to survive, as well as necessary medical equipment in case of an injury or other issue while you await assistance.
Must-Have Supplies in Your Office Emergency Kit Having the right supplies in your kit will not only provide you with peace of mind, but you will also be prepared for any scenario that may arise while you and your employees are in the workplace.
As you plan, it might be helpful to make an emergency kit checklist to be sure you do not miss anything. Some of the supplies you should absolutely include are:
- A first aid kit, complete with all basic medical supplies such as bandages, painkillers, etc.
- Non-perishable foods such as canned goods and protein bars
- Enough water to last each person at least three days (one gallon, per person, per day is recommended)
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- An emergency weather radio that is manually or battery-operated
- Toilet paper, paper towels and hand sanitizer
If your office has experienced damage due to severe weather or another disaster, we are here to help you. Our trained technicians are ready to respond 24/7, so you can call us anytime to report your damages.
The 5 Most Common Reasons Behind Roof Leaks | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/4/2021 (Permalink)
Having a leak in the roof is a pain for homeowners and one that can cause serious damage with time. Many times, roof leaks are not noticed right away because they start initially damaging the attic before they are visible on the ceiling of the home.
Understanding why roof leaks happen can help you prepare for and prevent them from occurring in your home.
Common Reasons Why Roof Leaks Begin
- Wear and Tear Resulting From Age. With every variation in temperature, roofs are designed to expand and contract—meaning every summer, winter and temperature variation in between, there will be a bit of movement involved, which can eventually lead to cracks and vulnerabilities in the tar below the shingles.
- Breakdown of Flashing or Seals Around Features. Anytime a feature such as a chimney, dormer or vent intersects with your roof, a seal or a flashing will be installed to keep water out. Over time, these seals or flashing installations can begin to warp and wear, letting in water.
- Missing or Loose Shingles. Shingles are your home’s first line of defense against weather, so if one becomes loose or goes missing, there is a good chance a leak might develop. Shingles can get torn off by debris or simply come loose with time, but it is easy to do a visual inspection to determine if they are all there.
- Clogged Gutters That Cause Puddles. It is recommended to clean the debris from your gutters regularly, as roof leaks can develop otherwise. When water is unable to be drained away, it will sit in puddles on your roof and can eventually start seeping into the wood underneath.
- Excessive Moisture Deposits. If your roof is designed with several levels and one level deposits moisture onto another, the bottom level can become oversaturated with moisture if heavy rainfall occurs. This can overwhelm the roof’s defenses and allow water to saturate the shingles and begin seeping in.
Have you experienced a roof leak in your household? If so, our trained water restoration technicians are here to help you. Contact us at any time to learn more.
Having a residential fire damage your home is an extremely difficult experience, even if you have been practicing preparedness and fire safety with yo
5/4/2021 (Permalink)
Having a residential fire damage your home is an extremely difficult experience, even if you have been practicing preparedness and fire safety with your family. We understand that facing fire damage is one of the most difficult things an individual can do, which is why we pride ourselves on our unparalleled service when it comes to fire restoration.
Here’s what makes us different:
We Handle Every Aspect of Fire Damage for You Fire damage is not something that happens as a singular event—it can have far-reaching effects on every aspect of your life. We understand this, which is why we handle restoration on everything in your home that fire damage can impact.
We not only deal with the direct damages that are a result of the flames, but we also handle elements such as the removal of hazardous soot, the restoration of your upholstery, fabrics and belongings, and water damage restoration if a sprinkler system was activated or water was used to extinguish the fire. By covering all these things, you can be certain that you will receive a full and complete restoration from us when you call.
We Take a “Restore First” Mentality for Your Belongings Our highly trained restoration professionals are taught to approach fire damage with the intent to restore in mind—not to remove belongings that homeowners will have to pay to replace. We focus on restoring everything that we can in your home, so we can salvage your sentimental items and prevent you from having to go through the hassle of replacing your belongings.
We understand that the things in your home are more than just objects, and instead carry memories and emotions with them, so we will work hard to restore everything we can in your home.
We Guarantee You Will Receive a Quick Response When a fire strikes, we understand that there are both physical and emotional concerns for the victims and being faced with the damage can be a painful reminder of that. That is why we pride ourselves on our fast response time for restoration jobs—you can call us at any hour and we will start assembling our response squad so we can get out to you quickly and begin the restoration as soon as possible.
If you’ve had fire damage to your home, you can count on us to help you. Call us 24/7 to learn more about our process and have our qualified technicians dispatched to you.
How Severe Storms Can Lead To Storm Damage
5/4/2021 (Permalink)
Severe thunderstorms are a frightening event because of how much damage they can cause to
your home. It is estimated that thunderstorms happen around 1,800 times every day, which
makes the potential for damage quite high.
While multiple parts of the home are vulnerable to damage as a result of a thunderstorm, the
roof is typically the most vulnerable and thus the most frequently damaged component.
Between high winds, hail and flying debris, there are several types of roof damage to be on
guard for when a severe thunderstorm is likely.
How Roof Damage Can Be a Result of Severe Thunderstorms
Shingles can be torn away due to high winds.
Damaging winds are classified as any wind speed above 50 to 60 miles per hour, but during severe thunderstorms, wind speeds can be as high as 100 miles per hour depending on the conditions that are present. This speed is certainly high enough to catch a loose shingle and tear it off the roof, exposing the vulnerable materials underneath and leading to leaks in the roof.
Taking Preventative Steps to Keep Your House Dry
4/28/2021 (Permalink)
Taking Preventative Steps to Keep Your House Dry
Water damage can occur in homes in a variety of ways. Homeowners should check for leaks throughout their houses, inspecting pipes and connections in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. Look under and around sinks and around bathtubs for any discoloration. Do not ignore connections to dishwashers or to refrigerators with water and ice dispensers.
Make sure water is flowing properly down drains. If not, try clearing the drain with a plunger or an over the counter solution. If that does not work, call a professional for assistance.
To keep drains and pipes clear, follow some simple steps such as pouring cooking oil into a suitable container and disposing of it properly after it cools and never flushing diapers and other inappropriate items down toilets. In addition, backflow valves should be installed in sanitary and storm sewer lines.
Check the floors around water heaters for wet spots, which could indicate you have a rusted tank or other problem. If necessary, have the tank replaced as soon as possible.
A leak in the roof of your home and clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to significant water damage inside your house. As soon as you notice a leak in your roof have it inspected and repaired immediately. In addition, keep all gutters and downspouts free of leaves and other debris that could cause water to back up and leak into your house.
Owners of properties located in areas prone to flooding should give serious consideration to applying a waterproof coating or membrane to the exterior walls and installing watertight shields over doors, windows and other openings.
When winter hits, keep an eye out for snow accumulation on the downside of a higher- level roof, where blowing snow will pile up. For safe snow removal, ask a roofing contractor for a referral.
Remove snow from basement stairwells, window wells and all walls to prevent water or moisture from penetrating walls. Also, keep attics well ventilated to maintain temperatures close to the outside, which will minimize the risk of ice dams forming.
To ensure that pipes do not freeze and burst, keep the heat in your home at an acceptable level, cover exposed pipes with insulation sleeves or wrapping and open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
If water damage does occur in your home, immediately call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton (912) 538-1323 for restoration services. SERVPRO’s teams will:
- Assess damage for restorability and safety.
- Determine the extent of the moisture content in effected areas.
- Move and prop up furniture on blocks if necessary.
- Extract the water.
- Remove carpets and carpet pads if necessary.
- Spray to treat germs and bacteria in contaminated areas.
- Start the drying process with air movers and dehumidification equipment.
- Ensure rooms are completely dry and conduct a walk through with homeowners to guarantee customer satisfaction.
Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding a possible water, mold, of fire damage loss.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, we are always here to help! Call (912)538-1323 for all you restoration needs!
Hurricane Ready
4/28/2021 (Permalink)
Are you prepared for a hurricane?? The 2018 Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. The areas covered include the North Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. The National Weather Service defines a hurricane as "an intense tropical weather system with well-defined circulation and sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or higher. “Here are two helpful links to get you prepared in case of a hurricane:
https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/ready.php
When you return back to your home and you have damage, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for your storm damage restoration needs. We have IICRC Certified technicians who are highly trained in reporting to a job on time and working in a timely manner. We always strive to work quickly and efficiently to get you back in your home!
Storm Damage
4/28/2021 (Permalink)
If you have ever had a weather related emergency, such as a flood, tree fall, pipe burst you may have experienced the frustration of calling for help only to find you would be put on a list and gotten to when you’re gotten to. If you have not had a weather or event related issue at your home or business, good. If you ever do, here’s a few things to keep in mind:
1) Everyone you reach out to, whether a plumber, tree company or SERVPRO wants to help you and as quickly as possible.
2) When an area is affected, whether by a microburst, hurricane or deep freeze, the damage is common. In other words, if your pipes freeze when the temperature drops from 40 to seven over a 24 hour period, the same thing is happening all around you.
3) Immediate response resources in an area are always limited. Your plumber of 15 years can not hire additional crews overnight, as much as he would like to.
So when this occurs, it pays to Go Big.
At SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, our first question is always: Is the source fixed or do you need help fixing the source? No job is to big or small for our crew of certified and highly trained experts! When it comes to your property, home, or business you can depend on SERVPRO to get the job done, and done right! We have the resources for all trades and labor and can properly and efficiently handle any job no matter the size!
A brand you can trust, a company you can depend on!
Whether its factory fire, burst water heater or a tree on a house, We are Ready for Whatever Happens and Are Always Here to Help!
How to keep your home free from water damage
4/28/2021 (Permalink)
Water damage can occur in homes in a variety of ways. Homeowners should check for leaks throughout their houses, inspecting pipes and connections in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. Look under and around sinks and around bathtubs for any discoloration. Do not ignore connections to dishwashers or to refrigerators with water and ice dispensers.
Make sure water is flowing properly down drains. If not, try clearing the drain with a plunger or an over the counter solution. If that does not work, call a professional for assistance.
To keep drains and pipes clear, follow some simple steps such as pouring cooking oil into a suitable container and disposing of it properly after it cools and never flushing diapers and other inappropriate items down toilets. In addition, backflow valves should be installed in sanitary and storm sewer lines.
Check the floors around water heaters for wet spots, which could indicate you have a rusted tank or other problem. If necessary, have the tank replaced as soon as possible.
A leak in the roof of your home and clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to significant water damage inside your house. As soon as you notice a leak in your roof have it inspected and repaired immediately. In addition, keep all gutters and downspouts free of leaves and other debris that could cause water to back up and leak into your house.
Owners of properties located in areas prone to flooding should give serious consideration to applying a waterproof coating or membrane to the exterior walls and installing watertight shields over doors, windows and other openings.
When winter hits, keep an eye out for snow accumulation on the downside of a higher- level roof, where blowing snow will pile up. For safe snow removal, ask a roofing contractor for a referral.
Remove snow from basement stairwells, window wells and all walls to prevent water or moisture from penetrating walls. Also, keep attics well ventilated to maintain temperatures close to the outside, which will minimize the risk of ice dams forming.
To ensure that pipes do not freeze and burst, keep the heat in your home at an acceptable level, cover exposed pipes with insulation sleeves or wrapping and open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
Emergency Tips
2/16/2021 (Permalink)
If you have ever had a weather-related emergency, such as a flood, pipe burst, septic tank overflow you may have experienced the frustration of calling for help only to find you would be put on a list and gotten to when that person has a free moment. If you have not had a weather or event related issue at your home or business, yay for you! If you ever do have an emergency, here’s a few things to keep in mind:
- Everyone you reach out to, whether a plumber or SERVPRO wants to help you and as quickly as possible.
- When an area is affected, whether by a microburst, hurricane or deep freeze, the damage is common. In other words, if your pipes freeze when the temperature drops from 40 to 7 over a 24 hour period, the same thing is happening to your neighbors.
- Immediate response resources in an area are always limited. Your plumber of 15 years cannot hire additional crews overnight, as much as he would like to.
So when this occurs, it pays to Go Big.
At SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, our first question is always: Is the source fixed or do you need help fixing the source? No job is to big or small for our crew of certified and highly trained experts! When it comes to your property, home, or business you can depend on SERVPRO to get the job done and done right! We have the resources for all trades and labor and can properly and efficiently handle any job no matter the size!
A brand you can trust, a company you can depend on! We are available 24/7/365 because your emergency will not wait until Monday morning.
Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)
12/16/2020 (Permalink)
As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
Contact our office today at (912)538-1323 for a FREE Emergency Ready Profile for your business.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to assist you in the event of a loss!
Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property
12/16/2020 (Permalink)
Fire damage, no matter the size, can affect every square inch of your property. It can travel through air ducts, burn through ceilings and floors, and damage countless pieces of equipment and documents.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has access to thousands of pieces of equipment and hundreds of personnel to help mitigate even the largest fire damage. Our experienced technicians utilize industry knowledge, training, experience, high-tech equipment, and proprietary cleaning products to perform emergency services to meet our customer’s cleaning and restoration needs.
Performed immediately following a loss in order to reduce property and content damage, our emergency services reduce claims’ expense, and minimize customer disruption.
While the types of emergency services we provide vary, our emergency response includes:
- Boarding up the structure and securing the property to help prevent intrusions.
- Drying the structure. Water is often used to extinguish a fire, so excess water or moisture must be monitored and removed.
- Deodorization of the affected areas.
- Pre-testing and initial cleaning. Initial cleaning may help prevent additional damage caused by soot residue, and pre-testing allows the technician to determine what can be restored to help eliminate needless and costly expenses.
- Conducting building inspections to evaluate the loss site for any safety or health hazards.
Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your Fire Restoration needs!
Storm Damage
12/16/2020 (Permalink)
If you have ever had a weather related emergency, such as a flood, tree fall, pipe burst you may have experienced the frustration of calling for help only to find you would be put on a list and gotten to when you’re gotten to. If you have not had a weather or event related issue at your home or business, good. If you ever do, here’s a few things to keep in mind:
1) Everyone you reach out to, whether a plumber, tree company or SERVPRO wants to help you and as quickly as possible.
2) When an area is affected, whether by a microburst, hurricane or deep freeze, the damage is common. In other words, if your pipes freeze when the temperature drops from 40 to seven over a 24 hour period, the same thing is happening all around you.
3) Immediate response resources in an area are always limited. Your plumber of 15 years can not hire additional crews overnight, as much as he would like to.
So when this occurs, it pays to Go Big.
At SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, our first question is always: Is the source fixed or do you need help fixing the source? No job is to big or small for our crew of certified and highly trained experts! When it comes to your property, home, or business you can depend on SERVPRO to get the job done, and done right! We have the resources for all trades and labor and can properly and efficiently handle any job no matter the size!
A brand you can trust, a company you can depend on!
Whether its factory fire, burst water heater or a tree on a house, We are Ready for Whatever Happens and Are Always Here to Help!
Services Provided to Restaurants
12/16/2020 (Permalink)
If you have ever had a weather related emergency, such as a flood, tree fall, pipe burst you may have experienced the frustration of calling for help only to find you would be put on a list and gotten to when you’re gotten to. If you have not had a weather or event related issue at your home or business, good. If you ever do, here’s a few things to keep in mind:
1) Everyone you reach out to, whether a plumber, tree company or SERVPRO wants to help you and as quickly as possible.
2) When an area is affected, whether by a microburst, hurricane or deep freeze, the damage is common. In other words, if your pipes freeze when the temperature drops from 40 to seven over a 24 hour period, the same thing is happening all around you.
3) Immediate response resources in an area are always limited. Your plumber of 15 years can not hire additional crews overnight, as much as he would like to.
So when this occurs, it pays to Go Big.
At SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, our first question is always: Is the source fixed or do you need help fixing the source? No job is to big or small for our crew of certified and highly trained experts! When it comes to your property, home, or business you can depend on SERVPRO to get the job done, and done right! We have the resources for all trades and labor and can properly and efficiently handle any job no matter the size!
A brand you can trust, a company you can depend on!
Whether its factory fire, burst water heater or a tree on a house, We are Ready for Whatever Happens and Are Always Here to Help!
Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property
12/16/2020 (Permalink)
Fire damage, no matter the size, can affect every square inch of your property. It can travel through air ducts, burn through ceilings and floors, and damage countless pieces of equipment and documents.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has access to thousands of pieces of equipment and hundreds of personnel to help mitigate even the largest fire damage. Our experienced technicians utilize industry knowledge, training, experience, high-tech equipment, and proprietary cleaning products to perform emergency services to meet our customer’s cleaning and restoration needs.
Performed immediately following a loss in order to reduce property and content damage, our emergency services reduce claims’ expense, and minimize customer disruption.
While the types of emergency services we provide vary, our emergency response includes:
- Boarding up the structure and securing the property to help prevent intrusions.
- Drying the structure. Water is often used to extinguish a fire, so excess water or moisture must be monitored and removed.
- Deodorization of the affected areas.
- Pre-testing and initial cleaning. Initial cleaning may help prevent additional damage caused by soot residue, and pre-testing allows the technician to determine what can be restored to help eliminate needless and costly expenses.
- Conducting building inspections to evaluate the loss site for any safety or health hazards.
Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your Fire Restoration needs!
Types of House Fires
12/16/2020 (Permalink)
The most common type of house fires starts in the kitchen. The most common kitchen fire is a grease fire. It can be started very easily and spread if not properly put out. *Do not put water on a grease fire, you want to cover it. Another common house fire is due to electrical wiring. It can be from faulty wiring or old wiring. During the cold winter months, a fire can be due to a heater. Portable heaters need to be used when someone is watching it closely or where it will turn off if overheating. Lastly, a major cause of a home fire is smoke-related. People falling asleep with a cigarette in their hand can cause a major house fire. If you are disposing a cigarette in the home, make sure it is properly extinguished before placing in a trash can or emptying the ashtray.
Practicing Safe Habits When You Fire Up the Grill | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
7/14/2020 (Permalink)
Summer is in full swing, which means most of us are probably grilling our dinners as much as possible to take advantage of the warmer weather. While grilling is one of the best summer pastimes, it is important to remember that there is a certain level of risk every time you light it.
By practicing safe grilling habits, you can be certain that you are not inadvertently creating a high fire risk in your backyard.
Practicing Fire Safety When Grilling
Set Your Grill Up in the Right Area If you have not considered the location of your grill in a while, it is important to make sure it is in a safe spot. Set your grill up on level ground, away from any buildings, overhangs or flammable objects. It is recommended by the U.S. Fire Administration that you create a three-foot “safe zone” around your grill any time it is in use. While the main concern here is fire, gas grills in an area that is not well-ventilated can lead to a buildup of carbon monoxide in the area. The heat from a grill can also melt vinyl siding and ignite deck materials if conditions are right.
Never Leave the Grill Unattended (Even if You Are Done Cooking)
While you should certainly never walk away from a lit grill, even for a moment, you also likely assume you are safe to walk away as soon as the flames are out. However, until a grill is completely cooled off, it can be a fire hazard, especially for charcoal grills. Hot embers can hide within the coals and spontaneously ignite if there is still heat circulating.
Clean and Inspect Your Grill Often Cleaning your grill is key for tastier food and more efficient cooking, but it also is much safer to grill on a clean surface, too. Food residue that builds up on the grates over time can combust eventually, creating a fire scenario that can quickly get out of hand. It is also a good idea to frequently check your gas line if you are using a gas grill—the connection to the propane tank can wear out over time and cause leaks that could be hazardous.
Fires can be started by a variety of things, but regardless of the origin, we are here to help. Contact us at any hour for a rapid response for fire restoration.
How Leaks Around Your Doors and Windows Can Lead to Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
7/14/2020 (Permalink)
The charm of old homes can’t be beat—between original door trim and single-paned windows, there are many nuances to these homes that you will not find in newer construction. However, when it comes to these original features, making sure you are aware of what to watch out for regarding water damage is wise so you do not lose them altogether.
Any home can develop leaks around windows and doors regardless of age, but it is more common in older homes. These leaks are typically a result of an issue developing with the seal around these external openings, whether gaps have developed or the home settling with time has allowed water to force its way in—but other things can cause the issue as well.
Below we have some tips on what to look for so you can catch this water damage early on and keep your windows and doors water-damage free.
A Guide to Causes of Water Damage Around Windows and Doors
A Structural Failing Elsewhere in the Home If you see evidence of water damage around your windows or doors, it might lead you to believe that they are the culprit, but that may not be the case. Due to the way homes are built, structural failings elsewhere in the house can cause water to collect around windows or doors, even if it originates elsewhere. Gaps in the siding or issues with the roof might lead to water damage around these external openings in some cases, so it is best to do a full inspection.
Issues With the Sealant When windows are installed, caulking is used to seal them from the outside world, but over time this caulking can grow weaker. Fortunately, this type of leak is an easy fix—you can simply apply new caulking around the window and have the existing water damage treated as soon as possible to prevent further issues from arising.
If you have water damage in your home, you can count on our expert technicians for restoration. You can get in touch with us at any hour to learn more about what we do or to report damage and receive a rapid response.
Key Tips to Keeping Your Business Safe in Case of a Flood | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
7/14/2020 (Permalink)
When you are going about your daily business operations, you likely are not thinking about all the “what-ifs” related to natural disasters—but it is important to set aside some time to consider exactly where your business’ risks lie so you can be prepared.
Experiencing a flood at your business can be devastating for many reasons, especially because most standard commercial policies do not cover flooding at all. Below we will take a look at how you can be sure you are covered and how to reduce your risks as much as possible to get your business up and running as quickly as possible following a flood.
What to Know About Mitigating the Flood Risk at Your Business
Check your insurance coverage. While you may not have initially considered flooding insurance as a must-have expense for your business, it is important to remember that flooding truly can happen anywhere. Even if you are not in a known floodplain, all it takes is one severe storm or drain backup to impact an entire area—and considering the average business’ flood claim is nearly $100,000, it could create a huge expense for your business. Take a look at your commercial insurance policy so you know exactly what is covered, and talk with your agent about adding on flood coverage so you can be sure you are protected.
Raise electrical components. In a flooding situation, the best thing you can do is to mitigate the damage that rising waters can cause. One way to do this is by having a licensed electrician visit your business and elevate your electrical components, such as circuit breakers, sockets, HVAC units and switches, so these elements are less likely to sustain damage in a mild flood. If you know a flood is possible, you should also raise computers and other valuables to a higher shelf just in case.
Choose what restoration company you will work with. Any downtime your business has will create a threat to your livelihood, so recovering quickly is one of the best things you can do after a flood. By choosing your commercial restoration company in advance, you can be certain that you will get a quick response and expert flood damage restoration for your commercial space.
If your business is damaged in a flood, you can count on us. We are ready 24 hours a day to provide you with a rapid response. Contact us today to learn more.
Choose Us for Restoration So You Can Gain Peace of Mind | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
6/8/2020 (Permalink)
When you choose a restoration company to work with after you have experienced damage to your home, you are putting quite a bit of faith into whomever you choose. Not only is experiencing water damage, fire damage or storm damage a stressful process, but trusting a company to restore your home to its pre-damaged state can be a difficult thing to do.
If you work with the right company, however, you can gain serious peace of mind and trust that your home and belongings are in good hands. With our history of customer service, record of immediate action and expertise in a variety of damages, you can trust that your home is always in good hands when you trust us.
Why Choosing Us for Restoration Will Give You Peace of Mind
We Have a History of Outstanding Customer Service We are passionate about helping people in the area after they have sustained damage to their home or business, and we make sure that for every job we get called to do, we do our best work. The proof is in the customer testimonials—so many local residents have been thrilled with the quality and speed of service that they have received from us. When you hire us for your restoration job, you can trust that you will get the same outstanding service that our other customers have.
We Know the Importance of Immediate Action When you discover damage to your home, the last thing you want is to wait around for days waiting on a company to get back to you. Not only is that frustrating when you are in a stressful situation, but it can also lead to the damage becoming even more severe as it sits unattended. We understand how important immediate action is, which is why we provide service 24 hours a day. No matter when you call us, you will be able to get in touch with us and get the restoration process set into motion.
We Can Handle a Variety of Damages While some damages can be of the simple variety, many of them are far more complex and require a restoration company that can handle multiple specialties. For example, after a fire starts, you will often have water damage in addition to the damage from the smoke, soot and flames. Because we can handle all of these things, we can be your one-stop company for restoration.
If your home has been damaged, choose us for restoration so you can have peace of mind. Call us at any hour to learn more or get started.
We Can Handle Multiple Types of Restoration for Your Home or Business | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
6/8/2020 (Permalink)
If you have damage to your home or business, finding a restoration company as quickly as possible is probably at the forefront of your mind. While it is understandable that you will want to make a fast decision, you should also make sure that you are making the best decision for your needs.
After a fire, flood or storm, there is often more than one type of damage present that your restoration crew will have to contend with. That is why we always recommend working with a company that is a leader in all types of damage restoration and follows the guidelines of the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification so you can be sure that no matter the situation, your damage will be restored to its previous condition.
Here are the types of damages we handle:
Residential and Commercial Fire Damage
Fire damage can be nuanced and there are no two situations that are identical. After a fire, you will typically experience damage from smoke, soot and charring, but you will also often have to
contend with water damage from the fire being extinguished and even some reconstruction if the fire has compromised the structural integrity of your home or business. The good news is, we can handle all of this from start to finish so you can be certain your damage is taken care of.
Residential and Commercial Water Damage
Water damage can come from a variety of places, such as a clogged drain, a burst pipe or a weather event. When we are called to the scene of water damage, we can quickly evaluate the extent of the damage and what classification of water is present, and then move in our commercial dryers and dehumidifiers in to get the moisture out.
Residential and Commercial Storm Damage
Storms can be terrifying events and cause extensive damage to your home through various means. Water damage, wind damage, hail damage and even fires can be common after storms—but because we can handle all of these things at one time, you can count on us to quickly and comprehensively respond to your storm damage and begin taking action.
If your home or business has been impacted by fire, water or storm damage, you can count on us to handle it all! Contact us today to learn more.
Why We Always Emphasize Our Quick Response Time | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/28/2020 (Permalink)
Why We Always Emphasize Our Quick Response Time | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
When you are considering what restoration company to work with to handle damage to your
home or business, there are quite a few things to consider—but we think one of the most
important things is a quick response time.
Whether you are dealing with fire, water or some other type of restoration work, we guarantee a
quick response time because it is so important to the overall restoration of your property.
Why a Quick Response Time Matters for Fire Damage
Even if you were not home during the fire, sustaining fire damage is a traumatic event. Not only do you have to deal with the charring from the flames, the buildup of the soot and the odor from the smoke, but there can also be significant water damage if sprinkler systems were activated or water was used to extinguish the flames. All of these things can work together to create a truly
dangerous environment, between the health issues that smoke and soot can cause and the
structural dangers that charring and water damage can lead to. To ensure the safety of you and your household, we will respond quickly to fire damage every time.
Why a Quick Response Time Matters for Water Damage
While the peace of mind is important when it comes to the aftermath of water damage, a quick
response is about even more than that for us. Water damage can worsen as it is left to sit,
seeping into the structure of the impacted area and giving rise to the dangerous growth of mold
and mildew. By responding to water damage quickly, we eliminate the need for concern
regarding these elements and can instead move in quickly and secure the area so you know it is
safe.
Why a Quick Response Time Matters for All Other Restoration
Regardless of what type of damage we are talking about, knowing that you can count on your
restoration company to quickly come to your aid is a great way to achieve peace of mind. You
will never be left wondering what comes next or waiting hopelessly for a slow response team
when you work with us—our expert technicians will respond as quickly as possible to take
charge and begin your restoration work right away.
If you need restoration to your home or business, count on us. Contact us today to learn more
about how we respond quickly.
Doing a Water Damage Walkthrough of Your Home | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/28/2020 (Permalink)
Doing a Water Damage Walkthrough of Your Home | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
Whether you are buying a new home, selling your current home or just hoping to catch any
serious water damage issues before they get out of hand, doing a walkthrough can tell you a lot
about what you need to know regarding the status of water damage to your home.
While many types of water damage will not be noticeable until the signs begin to show up
around the house, catching these signs early on can significantly lessen the overall damage that
is done.
Where to Check on Your Walkthrough for Water Damage
Check the Interior Walls and Ceilings
Water spots are often the first giveaway that there is water damage present. Roof leaks are an
extremely common source of water damage, and when the water passes through the roof, it can
either begin to pool behind the ceiling or flow down behind the drywall. In either situation, you
will generally see dark spots that may be soft to the touch, cracked drywall or ceilings, and even
peeling paint that will indicate damage.
Check the Floors
Any type of flooring can be susceptible to water damage, and if there is a subfloor present, it
can sustain damage, too. Water-damaged floors will often be warped, buckled or “cupped” as a
result of the moisture, and may even feel soft when you walk across them. Moisture can also
cause darkened spots on the floors just like it does on interior walls and ceilings.
Check the Basement and Attic, if Applicable
Basements and attics are two of the most common places to find water leaks because of how susceptible they are to letting moisture in. Checking these routinely for any signs of damage is key for catching water damage early. Make sure you are also paying attention with your
nose—the water damage might be hidden, but if mold growth has started already, you will
generally be able to smell it.
If you find water damage in your home, do not hesitate to give us a call. We are here 24/7 to
help you with water damage restoration—contact us today.
How Severe Storms Can Lead to Roof Damage to Your Home | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/28/2020 (Permalink)
Severe thunderstorms are a frightening event because of how much damage they can cause to
your home. It is estimated that thunderstorms happen around 1,800 times every day, which
makes the potential for damage quite high.
While multiple parts of the home are vulnerable to damage as a result of a thunderstorm, the
roof is typically the most vulnerable and thus the most frequently damaged component.
Between high winds, hail and flying debris, there are several types of roof damage to be on
guard for when a severe thunderstorm is likely.
How Roof Damage Can Be a Result of Severe Thunderstorms
Shingles can be torn away due to high winds.
Damaging winds are classified as any wind speed above 50 to 60 miles per hour, but during severe thunderstorms, wind speeds can be as high as 100 miles per hour depending on the conditions that are present. This speed is certainly high enough to catch a loose shingle and tear it off the roof, exposing the vulnerable materials underneath and leading to leaks in the roof.
Hail damage can impact the roofline.
While not every storm will have hail as a component, when it does happen, it is generally widespread and severe. If you notice hail around your home after a severe thunderstorm, you should check for damage to your roof from hailstones as well. Large, powerful hail can cause divots on the roof, cracking shingles and thus making them vulnerable to water damage the next time it rains.
High winds can lead to flying debris.
When winds are as high as they are during a severe storm, nearly anything can turn into hazardous debris. Tree branches, patio furniture, rocks and decorations can all be thrown far from where they originated and even lifted up into the sky to scrape along the roof. This can also rip off shingles or lead to cracks, but is often more severe than simple wind or hail damage would be depending on the size, weight and force of the debris in question.
If you have storm damage to your home, you can count on us for restoration. Contact us 24/7 to
report your damage and get a quick response today.
The 5 Most Common Reasons Behind Roof Leaks | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/7/2020 (Permalink)
Having a leak in the roof is a pain for homeowners and one that can cause serious damage with time. Many times, roof leaks are not noticed right away because they start initially damaging the attic before they are visible on the ceiling of the home.
Understanding why roof leaks happen can help you prepare for and prevent them from occurring in your home.
Common Reasons Why Roof Leaks Begin
- Wear and Tear Resulting From Age. With every variation in temperature, roofs are designed to expand and contract—meaning every summer, winter and temperature variation in between, there will be a bit of movement involved, which can eventually lead to cracks and vulnerabilities in the tar below the shingles.
- Breakdown of Flashing or Seals Around Features. Anytime a feature such as a chimney, dormer or vent intersects with your roof, a seal or a flashing will be installed to keep water out. Over time, these seals or flashing installations can begin to warp and wear, letting in water.
- Missing or Loose Shingles. Shingles are your home’s first line of defense against weather, so if one becomes loose or goes missing, there is a good chance a leak might develop. Shingles can get torn off by debris or simply come loose with time, but it is easy to do a visual inspection to determine if they are all there.
- Clogged Gutters That Cause Puddles. It is recommended to clean the debris from your gutters regularly, as roof leaks can develop otherwise. When water is unable to be drained away, it will sit in puddles on your roof and can eventually start seeping into the wood underneath.
- Excessive Moisture Deposits. If your roof is designed with several levels and one level deposits moisture onto another, the bottom level can become oversaturated with moisture if heavy rainfall occurs. This can overwhelm the roof’s defenses and allow water to saturate the shingles and begin seeping in.
Have you experienced a roof leak in your household? If so, our trained water restoration technicians are here to help you. Contact us at any time to learn more.
Why Our Fire Damage Restoration Services Are Unparalleled | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/7/2020 (Permalink)
Having a residential fire damage your home is an extremely difficult experience, even if you have been practicing preparedness and fire safety with your family. We understand that facing fire damage is one of the most difficult things an individual can do, which is why we pride ourselves on our unparalleled service when it comes to fire restoration.
Here’s what makes us different:
We Handle Every Aspect of Fire Damage for You Fire damage is not something that happens as a singular event—it can have far-reaching effects on every aspect of your life. We understand this, which is why we handle restoration on everything in your home that fire damage can impact.
We not only deal with the direct damages that are a result of the flames, but we also handle elements such as the removal of hazardous soot, the restoration of your upholstery, fabrics and belongings, and water damage restoration if a sprinkler system was activated or water was used to extinguish the fire. By covering all these things, you can be certain that you will receive a full and complete restoration from us when you call.
We Take a “Restore First” Mentality for Your Belongings Our highly trained restoration professionals are taught to approach fire damage with the intent to restore in mind—not to remove belongings that homeowners will have to pay to replace. We focus on restoring everything that we can in your home, so we can salvage your sentimental items and prevent you from having to go through the hassle of replacing your belongings.
We understand that the things in your home are more than just objects, and instead carry memories and emotions with them, so we will work hard to restore everything we can in your home.
We Guarantee You Will Receive a Quick Response When a fire strikes, we understand that there are both physical and emotional concerns for the victims and being faced with the damage can be a painful reminder of that. That is why we pride ourselves on our fast response time for restoration jobs—you can call us at any hour and we will start assembling our response squad so we can get out to you quickly and begin the restoration as soon as possible.
If you’ve had fire damage to your home, you can count on us to help you. Call us 24/7 to learn more about our process and have our qualified technicians dispatched to you.
Keeping Your Staff Safe With an Office Emergency Kit | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
5/7/2020 (Permalink)
If you own your own business, it is important that you are prepared for whatever might come your way—and not just in regard to market fluctuations.
Emergencies and disasters are extremely common and often happen with little notice, which means that it is important to have a plan in place to take care of yourself and your staff just in case. One of the ways you can do this is by stocking an office emergency kit with necessary supplies for all of your staff in case you must seek shelter at work while there is danger present.
Why Stock an Office Emergency Kit? Stocking an office emergency kit is one of the best things you can do to keep yourself and your staff safe in case of an emergency.
While some emergency scenarios will require you to evacuate (and you should plan accordingly, just in case), scenarios such as severe weather might mean you need to stay put where you are until the threat has passed and/or help can arrive.
By having an emergency kit stocked and ready, you can be certain that you and your staff have enough food and water to survive, as well as necessary medical equipment in case of an injury or other issue while you await assistance.
Must-Have Supplies in Your Office Emergency Kit Having the right supplies in your kit will not only provide you with peace of mind, but you will also be prepared for any scenario that may arise while you and your employees are in the workplace.
As you plan, it might be helpful to make an emergency kit checklist to be sure you do not miss anything. Some of the supplies you should absolutely include are:
- A first aid kit, complete with all basic medical supplies such as bandages, painkillers, etc.
- Non-perishable foods such as canned goods and protein bars
- Enough water to last each person at least three days (one gallon, per person, per day is recommended)
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- An emergency weather radio that is manually or battery-operated
- Toilet paper, paper towels and hand sanitizer
If your office has experienced damage due to severe weather or another disaster, we are here to help you. Our trained technicians are ready to respond 24/7, so you can call us anytime to report your damages.
Thunderstorms & Lightning
4/20/2020 (Permalink)
Thunderstorms & Lightning
All thunderstorms are dangerous. Every thunderstorm produces lightning. While lightning fatalities have decreased over the past 30 years, lightning continues to be one of the top three storm-related killers in the United States. On average in the U.S., lightning kills 51 people and injures hundreds more. Although most lightning victims survive, people struck by lightning often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms.
Other associated dangers of thunderstorms include tornadoes, strong winds, hail and flash flooding. Flash flooding is responsible for more fatalities – more than 140 annually – than any other thunderstorm-associated hazard. Dry thunderstorms that do not produce rain that reaches the ground are most prevalent in the western United States. Falling raindrops evaporate, but lightning can still reach the ground and can start wildfires.
Before Thunderstorm and Lightning
To prepare for a thunderstorm, you should do the following:
- To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
- Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
- Postpone outdoor activities.
- Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
- Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile. Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
- Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
- Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.
- Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.
Weather Emergency
4/20/2020 (Permalink)
If you have ever had a weather related emergency, such as a flood, tree fall, pipe burst you may have experienced the frustration of calling for help only to find you would be put on a list and gotten to when you’re gotten to. If you have not had a weather or event related issue at your home or business, good. If you ever do, here’s a few things to keep in mind:
1) Everyone you reach out to, whether a plumber, tree company or SERVPRO wants to help you and as quickly as possible.
2) When an area is affected, whether by a microburst, hurricane or deep freeze, the damage is common. In other words, if your pipes freeze when the temperature drops from 40 to seven over a 24 hour period, the same thing is happening all around you.
3) Immediate response resources in an area are always limited. Your plumber of 15 years can not hire additional crews overnight, as much as he would like to.
So when this occurs, it pays to Go Big.
At SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, our first question is always: Is the source fixed or do you need help fixing the source? No job is to big or small for our crew of certified and highly trained experts! When it comes to your property, home, or business you can depend on SERVPRO to get the job done, and done right! We have the resources for all trades and labor and can properly and efficiently handle any job no matter the size!
A brand you can trust, a company you can depend on!
Whether its factory fire, burst water heater or a tree on a house, We are Ready for Whatever Happens and Are Always Here to Help!
When dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. Contact SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for prompt & dependable service.
4/17/2020 (Permalink)
Our Proven 6-Step Water Damage Restoration Process | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
Finding out that your home has sustained water damage is extremely unfortunate, but a quick response is the best defense you have. For that reason, you can get in touch with us 24 hours a day to report your damage and have us respond.
Here is what our proven process looks like:
6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration1. Initial Emergency Contact
You can call us 24⁄7 and talk with one of our highly trained restoration professionals about your damage. We will then assemble a response team and send them and their equipment your way as quickly as we can.
2. Inspection and Damage Assessment
Upon arriving at your home, we will immediately assess the area for any present safety hazards and address them to create a hazard-free environment. After that, we will do a full inspection of the damaged area to create a restoration plan for your situation.
3. Moisture Extraction
Getting rid of standing water and excess moisture is the best way to prevent extra damage from occurring, so we have an entire fleet of pumps and vacuum equipment dedicated to this. We will pull out all of the standing water quickly before moving on to more specific drying.
4. Dehumidifying and Drying
After there is no remaining standing water, we will start the dehumidification and drying process to pull moisture from the air, from structures and from belongings. Mold can move in quickly after water damage so we tackle moisture head-on to discourage it from taking hold.
5. Cleaning Belongings
Once the moisture has been pulled out of the air and surfaces, we will make sure everything is safe for you and your family to use by cleaning and deodorizing everything that has been impacted.
6. Restoration and Repair
We pride ourselves on offering a complete restoration, meaning that we handle all of the damages water has caused, including cosmetic. We can install flooring, touch up paint and do other small touches that will make your home feel exactly as it did before the damage.
If your home has been water-damaged, you can count on us to help. Call us 24⁄7 to get the process started.
If you’re experiencing any water damage from flooding, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is available 24/7 to assist you with any repairs.
4/13/2020 (Permalink)
Recovering Quickly After a Flood With Safety in Mind | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton
Floods happen far more frequently than most people realize, and are extremely common even in landlocked regions. We have seen many people get the unpleasant surprise of flood damage, so we always advise having a recovery plan in place just in case.
A plan will help relieve any worries regarding flood damage to your home and help you recover quickly, which makes the restoration a much smoother process. Doing this, while prioritizing your safety, is the best way to reduce the overall impact a flood has on your life.
Tips for a Safe Flood Recovery
Avoid further safety hazards. Many people want to return home as quickly as they can after evacuating due to a flood, but you should never do so until your local officials have surveyed the area and determined it is safe. There are many dangers hidden amongst floodwaters that could cause injury or death.
Air out the home. With flood damage, there are more concerns than just the moisture damage—namely, mold and mildew can be a big hassle. It only takes a few hours for mold to begin growing in the aftermath of a flood, and while it is impossible to stop altogether, fresh air can reduce the severity of it. Airing out your home if it is safe to do so is always recommended, which can lower the rate of mold growth and make the air healthier to breathe.
Document the damages. You will likely want to begin improving your home and salvaging your belongings right away, but before you do so, take some time to document everything that has been damaged. Make a list of items and take ample pictures, which will serve both your records and the insurance company’s if you are able to file a claim.
Contact your restoration and insurance companies right away. For those who have flood insurance coverage, get in touch with your agent and file a claim right away so you can get the process started. After this, reach out to us for a quick restoration response—we will work with your insurance company and promptly handle the damages.
If your home has been damaged in a flood, we are here for you. You can contact us 24⁄7 to receive a quick response and set the restoration process in motion.
Emergency Tips
2/25/2020 (Permalink)
If you have ever had a weather-related emergency, such as a flood, pipe burst, septic tank overflow you may have experienced the frustration of calling for help only to find you would be put on a list and gotten to when that person has a free moment. If you have not had a weather or event related issue at your home or business, yay for you! If you ever do have an emergency, here’s a few things to keep in mind:
- Everyone you reach out to, whether a plumber or SERVPRO wants to help you and as quickly as possible.
- When an area is affected, whether by a microburst, hurricane or deep freeze, the damage is common. In other words, if your pipes freeze when the temperature drops from 40 to 7 over a 24 hour period, the same thing is happening to your neighbors.
- Immediate response resources in an area are always limited. Your plumber of 15 years cannot hire additional crews overnight, as much as he would like to.
So when this occurs, it pays to Go Big.
At SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, our first question is always: Is the source fixed or do you need help fixing the source? No job is to big or small for our crew of certified and highly trained experts! When it comes to your property, home, or business you can depend on SERVPRO to get the job done and done right! We have the resources for all trades and labor and can properly and efficiently handle any job no matter the size!
A brand you can trust, a company you can depend on! We are available 24/7/365 because your emergency will not wait until Monday morning.
Fire Safety
6/17/2019 (Permalink)
Outdoors fires are absolutely beautiful especially in the fall. The air is crisp and being outdoors is a fall favorite. When creating a fire outdoors, you definitely need to consider the environment surrounding the fire. Whether you are near your home or in a national forest, you want to ensure the fire will not burn the area. Here are some tips to keep your home and our nature areas safe.
- When selecting a fire pit location make sure you are at least fifteen feet away from tent walls, shrubs, trees, or anything that might catch fire.
- Make sure the pit area is level and clear of debris.
- Make sure the wind spot you have chosen is calm.
- Dig your pit about one foot into the ground and circle the mouth with stones.
- Always remember to check with your campsite or the U.S. Forestry Commission to see if you are allowed to have a fire at the time you plan on camping.
- Make sure that any fire you build is kept low and out of the wind. This will help keep the embers down.
Never for any reason leave a fire unattended or hot. Make sure you pour water on the fire until it stops hissing.
What to do after a fire...
6/13/2019 (Permalink)
First, you want to ensure someone such as the Fire Marshall has cleared you to enter your home for safety reasons. At this point, you can go through your home to see the damage and possibly gather items you can keep. Second, you want to document everything- damaged items and items that can be restored. Take as many pictures of your home as is for insurance purposes. You may want to take a note pad and write notes while going through your home. If the fire was in one room, you still may have the smoke odor in other rooms. It is important to carefully note this for insurance and restoration companies. Lastly, call a restoration company such as SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton to come in and help restore your home.
Grilling Tips!
6/13/2019 (Permalink)
Spring has arrived and summer is upon us, which means it's time to pull out those grills.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton would like to share some helpful grilling tips to prevent any fires from occurring while you're enjoying that quality time with family and friends.
Do:
1. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home.
2. Clean your grill regularly.
3. Make sure to check for gas leaks.
4. Keep decorations away from the grill.
5. Keep a spray bottle of water handy.
6. Keep a fire extinguisher within a couple of steps of your grill.
DON'T:
1. Turn on the gas while your grill lid is closed.
2. Leave a grill unattended.
3. Overload your grill with food.
4. Use a grill indoors
Spring and Summer Storms
6/13/2019 (Permalink)
Each year, thunderstorms alone cause approximately $15 billion in property damage. Summer and spring seasons are the most vulnerable to these destructive and frightening storms.
There are several ways to prepare your property for the summer.
1. Always have an emergency kit with these items that you probably already have in your house: flashlight, battery powered weather radio, extra batteries to fit each electronic, non-perishable foods, lots of bottled water, can opener, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, blankets, extra clothes, sturdy shoes or boots, clock or watch, whistle to signal for help, and any important personal items and documents.
2. Know the safest structure of your home to go to during a severe storm such as a basement, underground cellar, or even the most inner part of your home away from windows.
3. Get routine maintenance on your roof and the foundation. Cracks in the roof are the number one leading cause to flooding damage.
4. Cut down any unwanted trees or limbs and get your trees trimmed before summer storm season. Trees and branches can fall on your property and damage the siding, windows, and roof.
5. Contact your insurance company to be more familiar with your policy. Most home insurers do not cover flooding damage.
6. Keep all expensive and favored possessions off the floor and away from low ground in case of flooding.
7. Invest in storm windows.
8. Keep all patio furniture, grills, etc in doors before a summer storm hits. Do not forget to part your vehicles in the garage.
9. If your town is evacuating due to a hurricane, secure and board up windows and any openings of your home.
10. Finally, take those summer storm warnings and alerts seriously, especially tornado and hurricane warnings. Tornadoes and hurricanes can lead to total property loss and even death.
Storm Ready?!
6/13/2019 (Permalink)
Whether it is a Category 5 hurricane or a bad thunderstorm rolling through, home owners should be prepared for any storm.
Take safety precautions
Any type of heavy winds can cause roof shingles, natural debris, or unnatural debris to occur. After the storm is over, take precaution when going outside because there could be debris such as nails, sharp wood, or other potentially dangerous items that are around your home.
Photograph the damage
If it is major or minor, take pictures IMMEDIATELY. You may not realize that something damaged your home until after you have moved it, so take pictures just in case (there is always the delete button). Insurance companies will need to see before pictures of the damage.
Contact your insurance company… and SERVPRO!
A homeowner must call their insurance company so an adjuster can be sent out to examine the damage so payment can be made.. Don’t forget to call your favorite restoration and mediation company, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton. We work around the clock to ensure happiness from our community! We will send a team out as quickly as possible to begin work for your home if disaster strikes!
Moisture?
6/13/2019 (Permalink)
Mold in your home can cause numerous issues. If not treated properly in the early stages, mold damage can become rather expensive. Not to mention, mold can cause various types of health issues. Lucky, we have some tips on how to prevent mold in your home. If you have mold in your home, we provide emergency services 24/7 so please don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Identify problem areas and fix the problems immediately
If you notice your basement flood every time it rains, get it fixed before the mold spreads to other areas in the house.
Dry wet areas immediately
Areas that get wet after a heavy rainfall or even just a spill onto carpet should be dried within 24 to 48 hours. If you experience items that cannot be dried within this time frame, you want to remove the items that cannot be dried- carpet, furniture, bedding.
Direct water away from your home
Ensure that the foundation of your home does not allow for any flooding to seep into your home.
Clean or repair roof gutters
A roof can leak due to clogged gutters. During and after fall, ensure the gutters are free from natural debris such as leaves and twigs. Occasionally, you want to check to make sure the gutters are not blocked by any debris so they work properly.
SERVPRO Services that Help Restaurants to Reopen Doors Quickly
6/13/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Services that Help Restaurants to Reopen Doors Quickly
Restaurants are some of the most commonly flooded businesses in America, as they are prone to some risk factors that can lead to significant water and flood damage year-round. Many restaurants that are located near rivers, creeks, lakes, or shores, making them vulnerable to heavy rainfalls which cause banks to overflow. Restaurants also have high amounts of water usage as compared to other businesses, which can lead to more interior and clear water flooding than in other commercial establishments. Fortunately, SERVPRO knows how to get a restaurant's doors back open as quickly as possible after these damages, through a few key services.
Inventory and Stock Management
One of the most difficult tasks to accomplish alone after commercial water damage is to take inventory of what has been lost, damaged, or left alone in the building. Everything from furniture to valuable kitchen equipment to food stock can be accounted for and should be, for insurance purposes. SERVPRO can help you to keep track of your losses and get proper repayment from an insurer after the event is said and done.
Rapid Restoration Services
We have access to a wide variety of powerful tools and machines to help accelerate the process of water removal and restoration, including high-powered air movers, water extractors, deodorizing foggers, UV sanitizers, and more. When used strategically, these machines help businesses to open doors quicker than expected after even the worst water damage.
Cohesive Teams and Helpful Policies
We strive to ensure that a restaurant owner understands the process of restoration and can talk to our teams and representatives. Also, our staff is assembled in a way that encourages cohesiveness and cooperation. This also extends to our "white collar" representatives, who can present documentation to insurance adjusters and regulators with maximum efficacy.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is a trusted local source of commercial repairs and restorations. Contact us at (912) 538-1323 for our help with your disaster in inconvenience.
Water Damage Prevention
4/30/2019 (Permalink)
You can’t always prevent harm from coming your way. Sometimes disaster strikes and accidents happen. Some things, however, you can control. Giving these potential problem areas in your house some extra attention will help keep you and your home safe and dry!
Your Windows! Regardless of the season, a drafty window can end up costing you a fortune! To check for drafts in your home, use a lit candle against windows. If the flame flickers as you run it along the seams then you may need to reseal your windows
Your Plants! Plants both in and around your home can be a problem if they are not properly maintained. In an effort to avoid the growth of mold or mildew on your property simply make sure that your garden areas have adequate drainage, and that you are trimming plants around the structure.
Your Gutters! As tedious as it may be, keeping your gutters clean is really going to help keep your home safe from costly water or mold damages. Cleaning out and inspecting your gutters regularly as well as keeping downspouts clear of any blockages will help keep the structure draining properly.
If you do find yourself dealing with the troubles of water damage in your home, give SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton a call at 478-275-4504. We’re available 24 hours a day to clean up the damage and restore your property. We will make your home look "Like it never even happened."
Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property
4/30/2019 (Permalink)
Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property
Fire damage, no matter the size, can affect every square inch of your property. It can travel through air ducts, burn through ceilings and floors, and damage countless pieces of equipment and documents.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has access to thousands of pieces of equipment and hundreds of personnel to help mitigate even the largest fire damage. Our experienced technicians utilize industry knowledge, training, experience, high-tech equipment, and proprietary cleaning products to perform emergency services to meet our customer’s cleaning and restoration needs.
Performed immediately following a loss in order to reduce property and content damage, our emergency services reduce claims’ expense, and minimize customer disruption.
While the types of emergency services we provide vary, our emergency response includes:
- Boarding up the structure and securing the property to help prevent intrusions.
- Drying the structure. Water is often used to extinguish a fire, so excess water or moisture must be monitored and removed.
- Deodorization of the affected areas.
- Pre-testing and initial cleaning. Initial cleaning may help prevent additional damage caused by soot residue, and pre-testing allows the technician to determine what can be restored to help eliminate needless and costly expenses.
- Conducting building inspections to evaluate the loss site for any safety or health hazards.
Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your Fire Restoration needs!
Storm Damage
4/30/2019 (Permalink)
If you have ever had a weather related emergency, such as a flood, tree fall, pipe burst you may have experienced the frustration of calling for help only to find you would be put on a list and gotten to when you’re gotten to. If you have not had a weather or event related issue at your home or business, good. If you ever do, here’s a few things to keep in mind:
1) Everyone you reach out to, whether a plumber, tree company or SERVPRO wants to help you and as quickly as possible.
2) When an area is affected, whether by a microburst, hurricane or deep freeze, the damage is common. In other words, if your pipes freeze when the temperature drops from 40 to seven over a 24 hour period, the same thing is happening all around you.
3) Immediate response resources in an area are always limited. Your plumber of 15 years can not hire additional crews overnight, as much as he would like to.
So when this occurs, it pays to Go Big.
At SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, our first question is always: Is the source fixed or do you need help fixing the source? No job is to big or small for our crew of certified and highly trained experts! When it comes to your property, home, or business you can depend on SERVPRO to get the job done, and done right! We have the resources for all trades and labor and can properly and efficiently handle any job no matter the size!
A brand you can trust, a company you can depend on!
Whether its factory fire, burst water heater or a tree on a house, We are Ready for Whatever Happens and Are Always Here to Help!
Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)
4/30/2019 (Permalink)
As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
Contact our office today at (912)538-1323 for a FREE Emergency Ready Profile for your business.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to assist you in the event of a loss!
Surviving a disaster with use of our ERP
3/30/2018 (Permalink)
We recently helped out a local business with a water damage case. Luckily for this business, they had already contacted us prior to the damage in regards to our Emergency Ready Profile. The ERP is an immediate plan of action in case of an emergency. It allows for whoever is at the business to know what to do, when to do something, and who to call in advance so the disaster can be at a minimum. The business knew exactly where to turn off the water. In addition, it had the list of phone numbers in importance to begin making the phone calls so restoration can begin quickly. We love when a local business profits from our ERP. If you have any questions concerning how to get your business an ERP, please give us a call at (912) 538-1323.
Black Water
3/30/2018 (Permalink)
What is Black Water?
Dealing with water damage in Dublin, GA isn’t something that your neighbors will envy you for. It can be absolutely devastating for your commercial property, not to mention the possibility of being temporarily displaced, and business put on hold. In preparation for the possibility of a flood in your area, here are a few precautionary steps to ensure you are prepared.
1. Know your flood risk.
It’s important to keep track of your region’s flood risk. There are a number of factors that can determine your flood risk, but keep in mind that nowhere in the United States is free of flood risk. If you live in a coastal city during hurricane season, your flood risk will dramatically increase. Other areas with typically high flood risk include low-lying areas near bodies of water or downstream from a dam or levee.
2. Know your insurance options.
When it comes to natural disaster-type flash floods, typical commercial insurance policies often will not cover the damage. Flood insurance is a separate policy purchased through FEMA, so it’s important to keep that in mind if you do live in an area with high flood risk. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with local disaster restoration companies and choose one you prefer beforehand, since the time to act must be immediately after the flood.
3. Know the signs of water damage.
Some floods are more severe than others, and in those cases, it will be obvious when your business has been affected. In other cases, however, water damage can be more insidious and it’s important to recognize the signs, as well as knowing the difference types of water that can damage your home. Black water, for example, is highly contaminated and will cause severe odor and mold damage to your property if not treated immediately. Flood water is, in every case, considered black water. Grey water can also cause damage, but is derived from appliances and pipes in your building
Fire damage and what to do after a fire
3/30/2018 (Permalink)
When a homeowner sees the fire truck leave their home after extinguishing a fire, it’s not uncommon for the owner to ask the question, What’s next? Since this kind of devastation can leave the owners head spinning, it may be difficult to make the wisest decisions, especially based on the knowledge that they have acquired over the years. Also, if this is the owners first experience with dealing with a home fire, they may be confused and stunned. Fortunately, there are resources available that can assist a homeowner with getting through these hours with as little as disruptions and discomfort as possible. By calling SERVPRO, a representative will arrive with the knowledge to provide home owners with a comprehensive plan to restore their property to its original preloss condition, "Like it never even happened."
Emergency Services – 24/7
Because a fire can occur in a home at any time of the day or night, it is important that the family can get the help that they need without any unnecessary delays. In fact, once the fire truck leaves the property, it is essential that the owner and their family know how to respond to minimize this devastating situation of fire damage to their Vidalia home. For instance, the windows and doors should be boarded up so that intruders cannot enter the home and cause additional damage or begin to take away items that were not damaged by the fire. This is why we offer emergency services to the owners that contact us, especially so we can help with taking the appropriate actions, while also devising a plan. Additionally, because no job is too small or too big, our technicians are trained in developing a customized plan to fit your situation.
Highly Trained Experienced Professional Restoration Technicians Even if a homeowner has dealt with fire damage in the home before, they can still use the help of a professional. This is because fire damage must be handled by trained experienced professionals that know how to restore the home to its pre-fire condition. For instance, when a fire occurs in the home, there are a wide variety of damages remaining. One of the most common involves extracting all of the water that the firefighters used to put out the fire as quickly as possible, specifically so that the family does not have to deal with mold or mildew growing in their home. Another part of the clean-up process deals with smoke damage. While some areas of the home may not show any visible signs of fire damage, the smoke and soot from the fire can circulate to unaffected rooms. The SERVPRO fire & smoke remediation technicians, FSRT, certified by the IICRC and in-house training, use specialized equipment to remove the smoke from the carpeting, draperies, flooring, walls, ceilings and other areas that have been affected. Ozone machines, air scrubbers, and several types of foggers help to limit this kind of smoke and soot damage.
When firefighters pull away from a home after a fire, the homeowner is tasked with the job of cleaning up and getting the home back to a pre-fire condition. To ensure the clean-up process is handled correctly, the owner will need to solicit help. Because our technicians are highly trained in fire restoration cleaning up services, we can assist you with doing a thorough job before occupying the home again. So, for help with fire damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton at (912) 538-1323.
Preventing Kitchen Fires
3/30/2018 (Permalink)
Fire safety is extremely important. The kitchen is an area in the home that is more likely to catch fire. Keep reading for some safe cooking tips for your kitchen. Before cooking, you want to wear clothes that are closer to your body so it does not get too close to a hot surface. Check the area for anything too close to a burner such as paper towels, pot holders, food packaging, and more. Clean the area before cooking in case there is any residue left from previous cooking. While you are cooking, never leave the stove unattended. This could easily catch fire and spread to other others quickly. In addition, you need to have a fire extinguisher somewhere close to your kitchen in case of a fire. Most people assume the best place to keep it is close to the stove or oven. This would be wrong. If a fire breaks out in that area, the last thing you need to do is go toward the fire and harm yourself. Keep the fire extinguisher in a place such as the pantry or close cabinet that is away from any area that is more prominent to a fire. If you experience a fire in your home and need SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton at (912) 538-1323.
Moisture Control
3/30/2018 (Permalink)
Mold in your home can cause numerous issues. If not treated properly in the early stages, mold damage can become rather expensive. Not to mention, mold can cause various types of health issues. Lucky, we have some tips on how to prevent mold in your home. If you have mold in your home, we provide emergency services 24/7 so please don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Identify problem areas and fix the problems immediately
If you notice your basement flood every time it rains, get it fixed before the mold spreads to other areas in the house.
Dry wet areas immediately
Areas that get wet after a heavy rainfall or even just a spill onto carpet should be dried within 24 to 48 hours. If you experience items that cannot be dried within this time frame, you want to remove the items that cannot be dried- carpet, furniture, bedding.
Direct water away from your home
Ensure that the foundation of your home does not allow for any flooding to seep into your home.
Clean or repair roof gutters
A roof can leak due to clogged gutters. During and after fall, ensure the gutters are free from natural debris such as leaves and twigs. Occasionally, you want to check to make sure the gutters are not blocked by any debris so they work properly.
Removing mold from concrete
3/30/2018 (Permalink)
Mold thrives in a place that is dark and humid which is stereotypically a basement. With the perfect environment, microbial growth can happen anywhere including a surface that is not usually mold prone. Concrete is that surface. So what do you do when you walk down to your basement and it is covered in mold? You can always call SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton. But if you want to attempt to clean it yourself follow these guidelines. To avoid any possibility of breathing in the bacteria, wear a mask to protect your health. Clean with a mixture of detergent and water. After creating the cleaning mixture, scrub the area to remove the mold. Once this part is complete, you want to spray the area with a disinfectant to reduce the possibility of regrowth. If you are worried about not treating the area properly, call us at (912) 538-1323.
Prepping for a Hurricane
3/30/2018 (Permalink)
Hurricane season can be extremely scary for those who live on or around the coast. With the fear of winds, rain, and storm surge, people will be concerned with their safety and their home. Homeowners should be prepared to evacuate their homes and go further inland. Evacuations in itself can be intimidating. Here are some ways to help prepare you for an evacuation.
Make a Family Ready Plan
In this you want to include cash, prescription medications, and enough food and water for your entire family and pets for a few days in case these items are not readily accessible. For any families that are traveling in different vehicles make sure you have a backup plan if cell phones are not usable.
Think about what to do with valuable irreplaceable items
Documents such as passports, licenses, insurance cards, social security cards, and other legal papers you want to make sure you have copies of these along with a waterproof/fireproof container and travel with them. Other items such as irreplaceable photographs and meaningful items, place in a watertight and fireproof container to store in a safe place. You may not be able to take them with you for room purposes.
Take care of your food at home
You may want to freeze most of your food incase power is loss. Set your freezer on the coldest temperature so it stays colder longer. If you are anticipating a long-term power outage, you may want to clean out the refrigerator and freezer. If you do this, leave the doors open so there will be little risk of smell when you return.
Clear the grass areas around your home and secure windows and doors
If a hurricane is approaching, there is a high risk of items around your home to be blown around. This increases your risk of windows to be broken because of extra debris. Tie these items down or place them in a safe enclosed area for safe keeping. With the windows and doors, make sure you are boarding up the windows so there is less of a risk for window leaks and breaks.
When you return from the hurricane, if you have experienced any damage to your home, call your SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton. We will send a team out as soon as possible to begin work on your home.
Preventing damage from a hurricane
3/30/2018 (Permalink)
A Few Ideas to Consider to Minimize Potential Storm Damage
With their high winds and risk of flooding, hurricanes can cause a lot of damage to your structure. While you can’t control the weather, there are always some things that you can do to prevent hurricane damages from happening.
Maintaining Your Roof
Your roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home when you are talking about wind and hurricane damage. Once the roof is damaged, it can lead to even more damage throughout the rest of your home.
Because of this, it is essential to maintain your roof and have professionals check it regularly. This will mean ensuring there are no loose shingles, nailing down roof sheathing and making sure that the connection between the walls and the roof is tight to stop updrafts. Your roof maintenance company can do these things for you.
Keeping Trees Low
Large trees grown on your property can create a visual statement and be dramatic. However, this means that you are giving the wind a weapon as well with which to cause severe damage to your home. If a large tree blows over in a storm, this can go through your walls and windows damaging your property. Try to keep trees under a certain height instead, and you will have less to worry about if the winds pick up.
Consider Projectiles
Look around your yard and consider everything which could maybe be a projectile in heavy winds. This means that anything which is not nailed down can become a danger. Garden benches are common items for this, so position them in a way which will lower the likelihood of them causing damage. Other threats could include tools, barbecues, ornaments, toys, and rocks.
Doors and Windows
Do your best as well to protect doors and windows. If you live somewhere that has a high probability of storms, you can get permanent storm shutters. If you know that a storm is on its way, you can use plywood as a temporary solution. Also ensure that your windows are insulated well and if you have older windows, vibration on its own can be enough to make them shatter in some instances.
Preparing for Hurricane Damage
Even with the best preparation, no home is impervious to a severe hurricane, and you may have to deal with some hurricane restoration. There are some things you can do to prepare for this as well. First, make sure to have the number of a reputable hurricane restoration company in your phone so you can use it when needed.
Ensure that you also have the right insurance coverage for your home and your belongings. You will then be able to get the restoration services you need without having to pay out of pocket.
SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton is the hurricane restoration company you are looking for. Our trained professionals are ready at all times to come to your property and properly assess the damages and begin remediation so you can get back to a normal way of life as soon as possible. Call (912) 538-1323.
Water Damage
3/30/2018 (Permalink)
Water damage can occur from mother nature visits such as hurricanes or thunderstorms to pipe bursts, foundation or roof leaks, septic tank issues, and much more. Either case, a homeowner should call a restoration company to help with proper clean up. When it is contaminated water such as a septic tank issue, homeowners are in the danger zone for viruses and bacteria growth. In this case, you want to call a restoration company immediately so there is little risk of exposure to dangerous bacteria. Regardless, a homeowner could experience mold growth very quickly if the water is left after 48 hours. If you encounter ANY type of water damage, you first want to stop the cause of the water damage. Example, if your toilet is over flowing, you want to stop water flow to the toilet, then call SERVPRO to come out and conduct the clean up. A homeowner would then need to call their insurance company about the issue. Do not forget to document each step with pictures and notes so you can remember who you talked to and what was said. We will be there EVERY step of the way to ensure you get your home fixed like it never happened.
SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton is here for your water damage restoration needs. From natural disaster such as a hurricane to septic tank issues, we will be there to help with the entire process.
Water Damage to Kitchen
3/30/2018 (Permalink)
After water damage to your kitchen cabinets, SERVPRO can help
Water damage wreaks havocs in homes. All it takes is for a single pipe to burst or one appliance to develop a fault, and a small leak can soon become something much bigger. Georgia is also prone to flooding at times which means that overall there is a real risk of water affecting your house.
After water damage to your Claxton home get everything dry as quickly as possible. A damp home is unpleasant to be in, and there is more of a risk of long-term damage if you do not take swift action. Damp areas are a breeding ground for mold spores and mildew.
One of the leading causes of interest for householders after a leak or flood of any kind is how to dry out hard to reach places such as behind cabinets. Floors and walls around cabinets are not easy to get to, and the extra layers of material there present a significant challenge. SERVPRO recommends contacting our experts for a full assessment of the situation as soon as possible.
Many factors affect drying around and behind cabinetry. These include the type of wood, the paint used, the position and whether the cabinet has its own back or backs onto the wall. Because the backs of cabinets are hard to dry, our IICRC-certified technicians are trained to carefully drill holes in either the cabinet or the wall to allow for better air circulation.
Our professional teams also remove molding underneath cabinets and drills holes in the base as necessary to ventilate the floor beneath the cabinet. In many cases, the molding can be put back after and may not need to be replaced by new molding.
Drying under and behind cabinets is not just about creating better ventilation through drilling holes or removing molding. We also use dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the area. Our certified professionals come equipped with powerful vent systems that force dry air under cabinets to speed the drying process.
SERVPRO monitors cabinets carefully every step of the way to ensure that the drying process is as efficient and speedy as possible. We handle your furniture with care, and when drying is complete, we patch any holes and put the molding back - "Like it never even happened."
If you are worried about your cabinets after water damage, give SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton a call at (912) 538-1323.
Most Common causes of Water Damage in the Home
3/21/2018 (Permalink)
In most cases, a homeowner may see an issue with their home leaking and believe that it is minor and shouldn’t be looked at. This is true in the sense it is minor, which means it would be an easy fix. The problem with this is when the issue does become major then the homeowner seeks professional help and now the problem is expensive and extensive. Read on to see what the most common cases of water damage to your home. Don’t forget that SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton is here to help with the minor and major water damages to your home.
Outside of the home: Roofs and Gutter
Flat roofs are a big helper in water damage to your home. Even though it is referred to as flat, it is not actually flat. It will have some design for water and debris to flow to the gutters. However, debris such as leaves and limbs can get stuck and will keep water in a particular area. This can create a huge amount of pressure which can result in water leaking through in that area from the roof. Another issue with this is during winter. During winter, water can freeze around the edges which will create a little pool on the roof which will begin to weaken the roof and allow for water to seep into the home. If you have a flat roof, you want to get regular maintenance on the roof to ensure you do not fall to a victim of water damage.
Gutters can fail homeowners. They are beautifully designed to run water away from the home. But when a thunderstorm happens, leaves and other debris can be blown into the gutter causes water to get stuck. Also, if a gutter cracks, the water could leak down the side of the home through a small afternoon shower which over time will lead to water damage and potentially mold. What to do? Keep a close eye on your gutters and after a storm, clean the gutters out properly.
Inside of the home: Pipes
Leaking pipes can be extremely dangerous because it can take a while for a homeowner to see major damage. By the time most homeowners catch this issue, there is major water damage and black mold. Leaking pipes can be from major temperature changes to the wrong level of acidity. If you notice a change in pressure or color of your water, this could be a sign of a leaking pipe.
Hurricane Categories
3/21/2018 (Permalink)
When it comes to hurricanes, the category means a lot. If a CAT 1 hurricane is coming your way, you can ride out the storm in your home. However, if a CAT 4 hurricane is barreling your way, you want to evacuate. So what does each category mean? Category 1 is a minimally damaging hurricane with winds reaching 95 miles per hour. The storm surge could range anywhere from 4 to 5 feet above sea level. Category 2 hurricane is referred to as moderately damaging. Winds could be anywhere from 96 to 110 miles per hour and the storm surge reaches 8 feet. Category 3 can bring extensive damage with winds ranging from 111 to 130 miles per hour, and the storm surge reaches 12 feet. Category 4 brings extreme damage with winds reaching 131 to 155 miles per hour. The storm surge for a CAT 4 is between 13 to 18 feet. Lastly is a category 5 hurricane, this cat of hurricane brings catastrophic damage with winds reaching well over 155 miles per hour, and the storm surge going over 18 feet. With any category of a hurricane, you want to board up your home and secure the perimeter around your home. The winds could easily blow items around your home into a window or damage your vehicle. If you do not know exactly what to do in order to prep your home for a hurricane, watch the local news for tips and ideas on what to do to best fit your home.
What to do when a Storm Hits Home
3/21/2018 (Permalink)
Whether it is a Category 5 hurricane or a bad thunderstorm rolling through, home owners should be prepared for any storm.
Take safety precautions
Any type of heavy winds can cause roof shingles, natural debris, or unnatural debris to occur. After the storm is over, take precaution when going outside because there could be debris such as nails, sharp wood, or other potentially dangerous items that are around your home.
Photograph the damage
If it is major or minor, take pictures IMMEDIATELY. You may not realize that something damaged your home until after you have moved it, so take pictures just in case (there is always the delete button). Insurance companies will need to see before pictures of the damage.
Contact your insurance company… and SERVPRO!
A homeowner must call their insurance company so an adjuster can be sent out to examine the damage so payment can be made.. Don’t forget to call your favorite restoration and mediation company, SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton. We work around the clock to ensure happiness from our community! We will send a team out as quickly as possible to begin work for your home if disaster strikes!
Emergency Ready Plan
3/20/2018 (Permalink)
As many as 50% of businesses may never fully recover following a disaster, according to industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water, fire, sewage, and mold damage can affect your business.
Contact our office today at (912) 538-1323 for a FREE Emergency Ready Profile for your business.
SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to assist you in the event of a loss!
Services Provided to Restaurants
3/20/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Services that Help Restaurants to Reopen Doors Quickly
Restaurants are some of the most commonly flooded businesses in America, as they are prone to some risk factors that can lead to significant water and flood damage year-round. Many restaurants that are located near rivers, creeks, lakes, or shores, making them vulnerable to heavy rainfalls which cause banks to overflow. Restaurants also have high amounts of water usage as compared to other businesses, which can lead to more interior and clear water flooding than in other commercial establishments. Fortunately, SERVPRO knows how to get a restaurant's doors back open as quickly as possible after these damages, through a few key services.
Inventory and Stock Management
One of the most difficult tasks to accomplish alone after commercial water damage is to take inventory of what has been lost, damaged, or left alone in the building. Everything from furniture to valuable kitchen equipment to food stock can be accounted for and should be, for insurance purposes. SERVPRO can help you to keep track of your losses and get proper repayment from an insurer after the event is said and done.
Rapid Restoration Services
We have access to a wide variety of powerful tools and machines to help accelerate the process of water removal and restoration, including high-powered air movers, water extractors, deodorizing foggers, UV sanitizers, and more. When used strategically, these machines help businesses to open doors quicker than expected after even the worst water damage.
Cohesive Teams and Helpful Policies
We strive to ensure that a restaurant owner understands the process of restoration and can talk to our teams and representatives. Also, our staff is assembled in a way that encourages cohesiveness and cooperation. This also extends to our "white collar" representatives, who can present documentation to insurance adjusters and regulators with maximum efficacy.
SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton is a trusted local source of commercial repairs and restorations. Contact us at (912) 538-1323 for our help with your disaster in inconvenience.
After a Fire..
3/20/2018 (Permalink)
Most full-service restoration specialists offer boarding-up services. Here are four reasons to board-up after a fire.
- You need to keep out the elements. If the structure of your property has sustained extensive damage, you should try to keep the elements out. Exposure to additional water, wind, or sunlight can compound the damage caused by smoke residue and soot.
- There is still viable stock on the premises. If products that appear viable remain in the building, you should consider boarding up. These items may require assessment and cleaning and may not be fit for sale but having them properly processed rather than stolen can be helpful for insurance purposes.
- You want to protect electronics and other valuables. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to restore some electronics or other valuable property to working condition. Loss can be far more expensive than restoration or covered replacement.
- You want to limit soot damage. It is generally a good idea to reduce foot traffic on the scene of a recent fire. When soot gets embedded into carpeting or upholstery, it can be much more difficult to restore these materials to a pre-fire condition.
Your major concern is likely to be how to recover from fire damage as quickly and completely as possible. Preventing looting and exposure to the elements can make fire cleanup more successful. Here at SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton we will always put our customers first.
Prevention of Water Damage
3/20/2018 (Permalink)
When owning or managing a place of business, disasters are always in the back of your mind. What if something happens and you have to be closed for a significant amount of time? Something such as a water leak can do this to a place of business. So what can you do to prevent this from happening?
Check the usual suspects of a water leak. Appliances, pipes and drains, and the roof are these suspects. The older these things are, the more often you need to check them. When you are checking these items if you see something wrong, immediately get them fixed. Keep a close eye on lose hose connections and caulk areas since these are simple fixes. In addition, you should continue to update maintenance on all appliances and equipment. In regards to the outside of your place of business, keep the gutters free of debris. This will help reduce the likelihood of your roof being damaged.
In addition, you should look into SERVPRO’s ERP (Emergency Ready Profile) which goes into play when a disaster strikes your place of business. If you want to inquire about the ERP or have a disaster happen at your place of business, call us at (912) 538-1323, and we will make it look “Like it never even happened."
Types of Common House Fires
3/20/2018 (Permalink)
The most common type of house fires starts in the kitchen. The most common kitchen fire is a grease fire. It can be started very easily and spread if not properly put out. *Do not put water on a grease fire, you want to cover it. Another common house fire is due to electrical wiring. It can be from faulty wiring or old wiring. During the cold winter months, a fire can be due to a heater. Portable heaters need to be used when someone is watching it closely or where it will turn off if overheating. Lastly, a major cause of a home fire is smoke-related. People falling asleep with a cigarette in their hand can cause a major house fire. If you are disposing a cigarette in the home, make sure it is properly extinguished before placing in a trash can or emptying the ashtray.
What to do after a fire?
3/20/2018 (Permalink)
First, you want to ensure someone such as the Fire Marshall has cleared you to enter your home for safety reasons. At this point, you can go through your home to see the damage and possibly gather items you can keep. Second, you want to document everything- damaged items and items that can be restored. Take as many pictures of your home as is for insurance purposes. You may want to take a note pad and write notes while going through your home. If the fire was in one room, you still may have the smoke odor in other rooms. It is important to carefully note this for insurance and restoration companies. Lastly, call a restoration company such as SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton to come in and help restore your home
How to Winterize your Home
3/20/2018 (Permalink)
Check the pipes
With the temperature going down into the freezing numbers, homeowners should drip all the faucets at night. This ensures no water is still to freeze and burst a pipe overnight. A tip for outside pipes, make sure the pipe and hoses are free of water.
Chimney safety
For homeowners with a chimney, you should get a professional to inspect and clean your chimney so there is very small risk of a chimney fire.
Clean your gutters
With winter approaching after fall, homeowners should clean out all of the gutters surrounding the home. Leaves, twigs, and other outdoor trash can cause water to be trapped in the gutter and freeze. When the ice unfreezes, it can cause a leak into the home.
Overall, you want to make sure your home is well insulated so your home will stay cozy and warm. Don’t forget to check the basement, attic, and roof for any indication of danger before the cold weather is in full swing. And of course, if you see anything in your home that could potentially turn into a home disaster, please call us. We can send one of our technicians out to inspect your home before anything further happens!
Common Myths about Mold
3/20/2018 (Permalink)
All mold is bad. When facing mold in your home and business, it is understandable to see how all mold could be considered unhealthy. Not every mold that grows indoors is a dangerous mold. There are some molds, that are good for humans, such as penicillin. According to the CDC, there is always some mold everywhere – in the air and on many surfaces. An environmental specialist should be consulted to determine if there are any dangerous molds in your home or business.
Bleach kills mold. Bleach is a powerful cleaning agent. It can kill a whole host of bacteria on non-porous items. Killing mold, however, is not something bleach was ever intended to do. In fact, bleach is not a remedy recommended by the EPA or OSHA. Using bleach could lead to more damage due to the corrosive nature of the product. The same caution and advice holds for other consumer level retail cleaning products.
Cleaning up Mold Can Be Done Yourself. In small areas, this may be possible with the right products and equipment. Most people, however, are simply not equipped to do a proper mold remediation. Attempting to remediate a small area yourself could lead to larger problems if caution is not taken when disposing of mold infested debris. Lack of proper containment in a small area, could lead to infecting the entire residence causing thousands of dollars’ worth of damage.
Painting Over Mold Will Seal it and Prevent Regrowth. Also referred to as encapsulation this is a good method but only when done within a full mold remediation protocol. A common household fix is to use bleach to wipe down the problem area. Bleach will discolor the mold, but not remove it. Once the area is wiped down with bleach, then it is painted in hopes it will seal in any mold that was missed and prevent future mold from growing. This method does not work unless the initial cause of the mold growth is addressed and corrected. Underlying causes of mold can be excessive moisture or excessive humidity. If the moisture problem is not repaired or eliminated then the chances of the mold returning are greatly increased.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton will be ready for your mold mitigation and restoration needs! Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
Mold vs Mildew
3/20/2018 (Permalink)
Plain and simple, mildew and mold are fungi. Fungi can live in many different types of habitats such as in soil, on vegetation, and on surfaces exposed to moist conditions like a wall or ceiling after flood damage. Fungi reproduce by spores and quickly can spread.
What is mildew?
Mildew is mold in its early stage and often the term is used interchangeably with the word mold. That whitish-gray, powdery substance sometimes seen on the leaves of a plant is mildew. Mildew is a surface fungi that grows on organic material like plants and food as well as wood or fibrous items like:
- Drywall
- Insulation
- Cardboard/paperboard
- Wallpaper
- Fabric
How is it different from Mold?
Mold ranges in color from green to gray, brownish and black. It may appear fuzzy, flat or even slimy. Green slimy mold may develop in the damp, shady areas of decks and even vinyl siding, while indoors, mold can develop on grout, tile and other surfaces found in and around bathrooms and other areas with high humidity and inadequate ventilation.
Mold 101
3/20/2018 (Permalink)
While developing, mold forms multicellular filaments called hyphae and adopts single-celled growth habits called yeasts. A large taxonomically diverse number of fungal species exist that can grow on the inside of your Nashville area home.
As the tubular branching mycelium threads over a contact surface, fluffy white threads begin to cover various surfaces found on your property. Mold damage occurs as these microbes systematically produce new colonies, becoming more and more visible to the human eye during the late stages of its life-cycle. Mold causes various stages of biodegradation to natural materials used to construct your home. Often leaving you and your family exposed to pathogenic molds that produce inhalable toxic compounds. There are thousands upon thousands of known mold species, making discovering the type of mold existing in your home useless.
The kind of mold that exists makes no difference whatsoever in how SERVPRO approaches treating the growth found in your home. Our technicians use a variety of strategies based on the extent of exposure that exists, using containment and control methods to stop the spread in its tracks, preventing further growth. Although mold plays a major role in our planet's ecosystem, having it in your home can produce unhealthy results. Therefore, at the first signs of mold growth in your home, it is important to contact a licensed, qualified professional, like those offered at SERVPRO, for help.
Attempting to mitigate or remove mold alone can result in additional growth or additional exposure that you want to avoid. SERVPRO can help you regain control over your home’s indoor environment, and drastically improve the quality of the air that you breathe. Remember, the longer you take to act the longer mold has to develop. Given enough time, many species of mold adjust to various living conditions, surviving in harsh conditions including extreme cold, highly acidic solvents, anti-bacterial, or even within petroleum products.
Obtain professionally certified mold remediation services by calling SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton today. We are here to help members of our community when you need us the most (912) 538-1323.
Humidity in the Home
3/15/2018 (Permalink)
Humidity can cause mold to begin to grow in a home. Below are a few ways to reduce humidity in your home or business which will reduce the possibility of microbial growth!
- Vent appliances that produce moisture, such as clothes dryers, stoves, and kerosene heaters, to the outdoors, where possible. (Combustion appliances, such as stoves and kerosene heaters, produce water vapor and will increase the humidity unless vented to the outside.)
- Use air conditioners and/or de-humidifiers when needed.
- Run the bathroom fan or open the window when showering. Use exhaust fans or open windows whenever cooking, running the dishwasher or dishwashing, etc.
- Actions that will help prevent condensation:
- Reduce the humidity.
- Increase ventilation and air movement by opening doors and/or windows, when practical. Use fans as needed.
- Cover cold surfaces, such as cold-water pipes, with insulation.
- Increase air temperature.
These are different ways to lower the likelihood of microbial growth in your home. If you believe you have mold in your home or business, give your SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton a call at (912) 538-1323. We will make it look “Like it never even happened.”
Vacation Prep your Home
3/7/2018 (Permalink)
Many people clean their homes prior to leaving for vacation. They also make sure that all the lights are off, and then also check that all windows and doors are locked securely. Many otherwise careful people fail to shut off the water line at the outside of their home during their pre-vacation preparations. Many times, nothing comes of this, but when it does, the water damage can be substantial.
Water damage that results from a broken water line, no matter where the break or leak is located, can cause damage throughout your home. This damage may not only spread across the floor or down the inside of a wall space but from one floor to lower levels, increasing the amount of damage your home experiences.
Vacationing is Only Temporary and So Should Any Water Damage, if You Call for Professional Assistance
Upon returning from vacation, homeowners whose home has been water damaged while they've been away are in for a not-so-pleasant surprise. Shutting off the water should be the first thing done if it can be safely accomplished. Standing water can pose an electrical hazard if electrical outlets or wiring are immersed in the water. If you are not sure about your safety, you should have professionals complete the shut-down the electricity prior to shutting off the water. Everyone should remain clear of the water to be safe.
After the flow of water has been stopped, mop up the existing water using absorbent towels or mops and empty buckets. Dump these outside to keep drains inside your home from becoming clogged by any debris that may be in the water. Because water can infiltrate porous materials like drywall throughout your home, it is tough to remove completely. The structurally water damage must have the standing water extracted first. If this is not done properly, warping and deterioration of walls and other structures in your home can quickly occur. Then the absorbed moisture and humidity in the interior environment must be mitigated to acceptable levels. If not, this can lead to not only dangerous structural problems but also the growth of mold and mildew. These can cause health effects in your family members over time.
What We can do For You
Our professionals are trained in not only the removal of water that can cause damage to your home's interior, but we have training in the IICRC approved drying techniques that are designed for maximum efficiency. After cleaning-up and extracted all of the water, we will begin the drying process and take note of any damage that needs to be restored or repaired. Cleaning-up will continue with removing any debris that is left over from repairs, as well.
The professionals at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton are experienced in responding to water damage emergencies such as ruptured or frozen water lines, and we can respond quickly. We are available 24/7 so call us at (912) 538-1323 for not only fast service but also professionalism and experience.
Summer Fire Safety
3/7/2018 (Permalink)
If you have an emergency, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is available 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days throughout the year. We understand your emergency cannot always fall between business hours which is why we are here to serve you better. We help with smoke or fire damage to your personal belongings, home, or business. We will make it look “like it never even happened.” Follow these simple tips to help you and those you love stay fire safe this summer season!
- Attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting to the professionals.
- Enjoy outdoor celebrations and cookouts but remember to keep a 3-foot “safe zone” around grills and campfires.
- Build campfires at least 15 feet away from tent walls, shrubs or other materials that burn.
Hurricane Ready
3/7/2018 (Permalink)
Are you prepared for a hurricane?? The 2018 Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. The areas covered include the North Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. The National Weather Service defines a hurricane as "an intense tropical weather system with well-defined circulation and sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or higher. “Here are two helpful links to get you prepared in case of a hurricane:
https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/ready.php
When you return back to your home and you have damage, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for your storm damage restoration needs. We have IICRC Certified technicians who are highly trained in reporting to a job on time and working in a timely manner. We always strive to work quickly and efficiently to get you back in your home!
Safety for your Grill
3/7/2018 (Permalink)
As Spring quickly approaches, it is time for grilling out with friends and family again. Grilling can become dangerous quickly. Leaving the grill unattended, improper cleaning grease or fat, placing the grill near combustible items can cause serious injuries to a person or property. Listed below are some tips on grilling safety.
- Gas-fueled grills account for 4 out of 5 grill fires.
- Choose a safe location for your grill.
- Only grill outside.
- Teach children grills can be dangerous and to be careful around a grill.
- Remember how to properly clean your grill after use.
Grilling can be a fun time to gather around and share stories over hot dogs and hamburgers. SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton assures consumers that if you fall victim to damage to your home due to a grill, we will be there to serve you.
Leave it to the Professionals
3/7/2018 (Permalink)
Most people don't think they'll ever have the need to deal with a biohazard, but it's surprisingly common. Should your home ever become the site of a crime scene, traumatic accident, or fall into distress and be in need of severe cleaning, you'll be put in the situation of figuring out what to do next. While some homeowners think it's perfectly fine to attempt cleaning up a biohazard on their own, that's actually the worst thing to do.
Properly and safely cleaning up biological waste and dangerous materials requires expertise and the proper equipment. If you're facing a biohazard emergency, you're probably wondering how to get your home restored and back to normal. Here are just a few reasons why going the do it yourself route isn't best in this situation.
1. Advanced cleaning equipment is needed. Trying to tackle a biohazard cleanup with regular household cleaning supplies and tools is not only inefficient but doing so will not properly disinfect your home. At SERVPRO, our staff is trained to get rid of all traces of biohazards, including those that you can't see.
2. Your safety is important. Especially in the case of a biohazard scene that contains blood, human waste, or animal waste, preventing the spread of disease is important. Our technicians use specialized protective gear that allows us to handle biological emergencies and trauma scenes without exposing ourselves to risks.
3. Disposing of the waste requires special care. Sometimes we have to use an incinerator or autoclave during a biohazard cleanup, but the waste can't simply be put into your garbage can. Things that become contaminated or ruined by a biohazard emergency have to be disposed of so that no one is exposed to any health risks, and specific permits are required to dispose of and transport biohazard waste.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has a team of professionals who can handle your restoration emergency, even in the most extreme situations. To get a quote or learn more about our biohazard cleanup services, call us at (912) 538-1323.
How to keep your home free of water damage
3/6/2018 (Permalink)
Water damage can occur in homes in a variety of ways. Homeowners should check for leaks throughout their houses, inspecting pipes and connections in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. Look under and around sinks and around bathtubs for any discoloration. Do not ignore connections to dishwashers or to refrigerators with water and ice dispensers.
Make sure water is flowing properly down drains. If not, try clearing the drain with a plunger or an over the counter solution. If that does not work, call a professional for assistance.
To keep drains and pipes clear, follow some simple steps such as pouring cooking oil into a suitable container and disposing of it properly after it cools and never flushing diapers and other inappropriate items down toilets. In addition, backflow valves should be installed in sanitary and storm sewer lines.
Check the floors around water heaters for wet spots, which could indicate you have a rusted tank or other problem. If necessary, have the tank replaced as soon as possible.
A leak in the roof of your home and clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to significant water damage inside your house. As soon as you notice a leak in your roof have it inspected and repaired immediately. In addition, keep all gutters and downspouts free of leaves and other debris that could cause water to back up and leak into your house.
Owners of properties located in areas prone to flooding should give serious consideration to applying a waterproof coating or membrane to the exterior walls and installing watertight shields over doors, windows and other openings.
When winter hits, keep an eye out for snow accumulation on the downside of a higher- level roof, where blowing snow will pile up. For safe snow removal, ask a roofing contractor for a referral.
Remove snow from basement stairwells, window wells and all walls to prevent water or moisture from penetrating walls. Also, keep attics well ventilated to maintain temperatures close to the outside, which will minimize the risk of ice dams forming.
To ensure that pipes do not freeze and burst, keep the heat in your home at an acceptable level, cover exposed pipes with insulation sleeves or wrapping and open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
We're Ready....Are You?
1/31/2018 (Permalink)
If you are a commercial or residential property manager or condo association member, you should be dreading the swirly wind emoji on the accuweather app every bit as much as the single and negative termperatures we face this weekend.
Here are a few remiders from SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton...
Make random inspections of heat and air units, particularly those with external access. Specifically, look for insulation that has settled and no longer covers pipes as intended.
Reinspect any plumbing or external work to make sure proper installation is in place and that there are no vents where cold air can blow in.
Check doors, windows and heat in vacant units.
Remind tenants of protocol for reporting any water situation and not to ignore any signs of water intrusion or leaking. Let them know you are prepared for anything that happens.
If you have vacancies, you should consider relocation options for renters in the event there is displacement.
Make sure your on-call crews are ready to roll and that there is back up. There should also be clear protocol for structural emergencies that includes calling our TEAM of Experts at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your water, fire, or mold remediation needs!
An invaluable tool offered by SERVPRO is an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP), please visit our blog to find more information on this free service and how your commercial properties can benefit by being prepared for "whatever happens!"
We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!
Beware The Penetrating Power Of Bitter Cold
1/31/2018 (Permalink)
We find trouble wherever it's lurking
Roof and insulation issues don't reveal themselves on warm, sunny days. The next couple of weeks are going to be bitterly cold with swirling wind and who knows...middle Georgia may even get a little snow! With cold, wind and snow will come pipe bursts, ice damming and other unfortunate breakdowns.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton and our sister company Samson Construction stand ready to put your home or business back in preloss condition.
Our professionals follow IICRC protocols to make sure that your structure is fully restored and there are no secondary concerns, like mold. Not only will the structure be like new but you will receive everything you need to file a claim with your insurance company if you choose.
Our process includes: identifying all the sources and types of water; monitoring of atmospheric and material considitions for drying analysis; a comprehensive diagnostic inspection for trapped or hiddent moisture; removal of wet materials; removal or containment of furniture; carpet and Pad service; application of disinfecting and deodorizing agents if necessary; utlization of specialized drying equipment; and disposal of refuse.
While the mitigation is taking place we work closely with your insurance carrier so there is a seamless transition from cleaning to repair. The same team sticks with you from start to finish!
We don't wish ourselves on anyone but when issues come up, we are always ready to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!
What You Can Do to Save on Your Heating Bill?
1/31/2018 (Permalink)
What You Can Do to Save on Your Heating Bill?
Any season is a good season to save energy costs. With winter approaching, however, it’s even more critical as prices for home heating fuel are as volatile as ever.
The U.S. Department of Energy has the following fuel saving tips for consumers:
- Look for furnaces with annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings of no less than 78 percent.
- Place heat-resistant radiator reflectors between exterior walls and radiators.
- Bleed trapped air from hot water radiators once or twice a season or have a professional do it.
- Clean warm-air registers and baseboard heaters and make sure they are not blocked by furniture, carpeting or drapes.
- Clean or replace filters on furnaces once a month or as needed.
- To retain heat, turn off kitchen, bath and other ventilating fans within 20 minutes after you are done cooking or bathing.
- Install a programmable thermostat that can adjust the temperature according to your work schedule and sleeping habits.
- Energy Star products can cut energy bills up to 30 percent. Locate retailers online at www.energystar.gov when replacing heating systems, appliances, lighting, windows, office equipment and home electronics.
- Insulate hot water heaters and pipes.
- Make sure your furnace or heat pump is tuned up by a professional at least once a year.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton...We are always here to help!
Biohazard & Recovery Continuing Education
3/13/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Continuing Education
A few times throughout the year, SERVPRO of Houston County, as well as our partner location SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, offer continuing education classes to the Insurance, Real Estate and Property Management industries. These classes allow the attendees to earn credits for their respective fields. Most attendees use our classes to be better informed of industry standards and best practices. One of our more recent and popular classes is centered on Biohazards and Biorecovery procedures. This has proved to be a very informative class for all that attend. If you would like to learn more about our Continuing Education schedule or sign up for our classes, please call the office at (478) 224-4148 or send us an email to melissabridges.SERVPRO@gmail.com to be put on our alert mailing list. We look forward to seeing you in class.
It’s Never Too Late to Clean Up Mold!
12/7/2016 (Permalink)
Common Indoor Mold: Cladosporium, Penicillium, Alternaria & Aspergillus
Here in the middle Georgia area, we have the ideal climate for mold to develop and thrive. Since mold can start to develop in as little as 48 hours after water damage, it is imperative that any damage due to a fire, flood, broken water pipe, or leaky foundation be cleaned up promptly and properly. This cleanup will help you avoid significant property damage to your Conroe and The Woodlands home due to mold.
After Spring storms and summer showers, comes the damp, and moisture forecast, and the result of mold infestation is high. It is important to address any signs of mold immediately and correctly. Homes in our area are often affected by mold in bathrooms and basements, mold can develop anywhere in your home, especially if you have experienced any type of flooding.
Mold spores spread through the air, so even areas that were not directly affected by floodwaters can soon become home to serious mold infestations. Mold is often found in air ducts, which can cause it to spread quickly. SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is always ready to help you restore your home after a water damage or in the event of mold.Time is of the essence: the longer you postpone cleanup, the longer the mold remediation process, the more expensive, and more inconvenience for you and your family.
If you are starting to see or smell mold in your home, a thorough cleaning and disinfecting is required, and the sooner the better. Mold has the potential to cause health effects, so cleanup should be conducted with proper protective clothing, masks and gloves. Bleach and water should be used to kill the mold in all affected areas. Scrub the solution into the area, rinse, and dry thoroughly. If saturated drywall and insulation was not removed after storm damage, you likely need a thorough evaluation by a professional emergency water damage restoration team.
Water damage that was not properly remedied prior to rebuilding may have caused mold to start growing behind your new walls or under your new carpeting. If the structure of your home was not properly disinfected, dehumidified, and dried, mold may be thriving. Your local SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton teams see this frequently. In a rush to make properties habitable, steps are often skipped, leading to mold infestations. If you believe you have mold growth from recent floods or other water damage, call us immediately. We can quickly help you identify problem areas and start the mold remediation process.
Our mission is to help our neighbors, friends, and community members quickly recover from damage caused by natural disaster, fire, sewage backup, or other events. Regardless of the size or type of damage, we can quickly respond and start the evaluation and investigation into the cause, as well as the best way to restore your property to its original state. Call us today at (912)538-1323, we work directly with insurance companies and carriers to help relieve a portion of the burden of the rebuilding process in order to make your loss "like it never even happened."
Beware the Penetrating Power of Bitter Cold
12/7/2016 (Permalink)
We find trouble wherever it's lurking
Roof and insulation issues don't reveal themselves on warm, sunny days. The next couple of weeks are going to be bitterly cold with swirling wind and who knows...middle Georgia may even get a little snow! With cold, wind and snow will come pipe bursts, ice damming and other unfortunate breakdowns.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton and our sister company Samson Construction stand ready to put your home or business back in pre-loss condition.
Our professionals follow IICRC protocols to make sure that your structure is fully restored and there are no secondary concerns, like mold. Not only will the structure be like new but you will receive everything you need to file a claim with your insurance company if you choose.
Our process includes: identifying all the sources and types of water; monitoring of atmospheric and material considitions for drying analysis; a comprehensive diagnostic inspection for trapped or hiddent moisture; removal of wet materals; removal or containment of furniture; carpet and Pad service; application of disinfecting and deodorizing agents if necessary; utlization of specialized drying equipment; and disposal of refuse.
While the mitigation is taking place we work closely with your insurance carrier so there is a seamless transition from cleaning to repair. The same team sticks with you from start to finish!
We don't wish ourselves on anyone but when issues come up, we are always ready to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!
We're Ready...Are You?
12/7/2016 (Permalink)
If you are a commercial or residential property manager or condo association member, you should be dreading the swirly wind emoji on the accuweather app every bit as much as the single and negative termperatures we face this weekend.
Here are a few remiders from SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton...
Make random inspections of heat and air units, particularly those with external access. Specifically, look for insulation that has settled and no longer covers pipes as intended.
Reinspect any plumbing or external work to make sure proper installation is in place and that there are no vents where cold air can blow in.
Check doors, windows and heat in vacant units.
Remind tenants of protocol for reporting any water situation and not to ignore any signs of water intrusion or leaking. Let them know you are prepared for anything that happens.
If you have vacancies, you should consider relocation options for renters in the event there is displacement.
Make sure your on-call crews are ready to roll and that there is back up. There should also be clear protocol for structural emergencies that includes calling our TEAM of Experts at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your water, fire, or mold remediation needs!
An invaluable tool offered by SERVPRO is an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP), please visit our blog to find more information on this free service and how your commercial properties can benefit by being prepared for "whatever happens!"
We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!
Storm Damage
12/7/2016 (Permalink)
If you have ever had a weather related emergency, such as a flood, tree fall, pipe burst you may have experienced the frustration of calling for help only to find you would be put on a list and gotten to when you’re gotten to. If you have not had a weather or event related issue at your home or business, good. If you ever do, here’s a few things to keep in mind:
1) Everyone you reach out to, whether a plumber, tree company or SERVPRO wants to help you and as quickly as possible.
2) When an area is affected, whether by a microburst, hurricane or deep freeze, the damage is common. In other words, if your pipes freeze when the temperature drops from 40 to seven over a 24 hour period, the same thing is happening all around you.
3) Immediate response resources in an area are always limited. Your plumber of 15 years can not hire additional crews overnight, as much as he would like to.
So when this occurs, it pays to Go Big.
At SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, our first question is always: Is the source fixed or do you need help fixing the source? No job is to big or small for our crew of certified and highly trained experts! When it comes to your property, home, or business you can depend on SERVPRO to get the job done, and done right! We have the resources for all trades and labor and can properly and efficiently handle any job no matter the size!
A brand you can trust, a company you can depend on!
Whether its factory fire, burst water heater or a tree on a house, We are Ready for Whatever Happens and Are Always Here to Help!
Biohazard & Recovery Continuing Education
12/7/2016 (Permalink)
A few times throughout the year, SERVPRO of Houston County, Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, offers continuing education classes to the Insurance, Real Estate and Property Management industries. These classes allow the attendees to earn credits for their respective fields, or to just be better informed of industry standards and best practices. One of our more recent and popular classes is centered on Biohazards and Bio- recovery procedures. This has proved to be a very informative class for all that attend. If you would like to learn more about our Continuing Education schedule, please call the office at (912)538-1323 or send us an email to melissabridges.SERVPRO@gmail.com to be put on our alert mailing list.
Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)
12/7/2016 (Permalink)
As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
Contact our office today at (912)538-1323 for a FREE Emergency Ready Profile for your business.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to assist you in the event of a loss!
What You Can Do to Save on Your Heating Bill?
12/6/2016 (Permalink)
What You Can Do to Save on Your Heating Bill?
Any season is a good season to save energy costs. With winter approaching, however, it’s even more critical as prices for home heating fuel are as volatile as ever.
The U.S. Department of Energy has the following fuel saving tips for consumers:
- Look for furnaces with annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings of no less than 78 percent.
- Place heat-resistant radiator reflectors between exterior walls and radiators.
- Bleed trapped air from hot water radiators once or twice a season or have a professional do it.
- Clean warm-air registers and baseboard heaters and make sure they are not blocked by furniture, carpeting or drapes.
- Clean or replace filters on furnaces once a month or as needed.
- To retain heat, turn off kitchen, bath and other ventilating fans within 20 minutes after you are done cooking or bathing.
- Install a programmable thermostat that can adjust the temperature according to your work schedule and sleeping habits.
- Energy Star products can cut energy bills up to 30 percent. Locate retailers online at www.energystar.gov when replacing heating systems, appliances, lighting, windows, office equipment and home electronics.
- Insulate hot water heaters and pipes.
- Make sure your furnace or heat pump is tuned up by a professional at least once a year.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton...We are always here to help!
Fall Maintenance Tips
12/6/2016 (Permalink)
Did you know? The air in your home is 10 times more dirty than the air outside.
During the Spring and Summer months, allergens accumulate and fill areas of your home or office with dust, dust mites, animal dander, mold and other unhealthy elements. Unless you address the situation now, the air quality will continue to deteriorate.
Your friends at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton want to ensure that you and your property are properly prepared for the upcoming season. Therefore, we would like to offer you some helpful tips that will adequately prepare your property for the Fall:
- Eliminate mold and mildew indoors by cleaning under the refrigerator, washing and disinfecting garbage cans, scrubbing bathrooms, and cleaning or changing shower curtains
- Remove any wet debris from around the home or office, as mold spores are airborne particles that can easily float indoors
- Schedule to have your chimney cleaned within the next month. Excessive buildup of creosote and debris, as well as miscellaneous branches, leaves and animal nests can create a dangerous situation as it increases the potential to spark a chimney fire.
- Remember not to ignore your ductwork, vents and HVAC systems. Unnecessary dirt and debris can pose a serious threat to the health of your family or employees if they are not properly maintained.
SERVPRO’s licensed technicians can provide all of the remediation and cleaning services necessary for the upcoming season. A proper cleaning will combat all particles that infiltrate your property and provide for a safe and worry-free environment by:
- Enhancing your indoor air quality
- Improving overall air circulation
- Eliminating built-up dirt and contaminants
- Extending the life of your heating and cooling systems
Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton at (912) 538-1323 and rest easier come Fall 2017 knowing your property is clean and out of harm’s way.
Every Second Counts When It Comes to Restoring Your Property
12/6/2016 (Permalink)
Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property
Fire damage, no matter the size, can affect every square inch of your property. It can travel through air ducts, burn through ceilings and floors, and damage countless pieces of equipment and documents.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has access to thousands of pieces of equipment and hundreds of personnel to help mitigate even the largest fire damage. Our experienced technicians utilize industry knowledge, training, experience, high-tech equipment, and proprietary cleaning products to perform emergency services to meet our customer’s cleaning and restoration needs.
Performed immediately following a loss in order to reduce property and content damage, our emergency services reduce claims’ expense, and minimize customer disruption.
While the types of emergency services we provide vary, our emergency response includes:
- Boarding up the structure and securing the property to help prevent intrusions.
- Drying the structure. Water is often used to extinguish a fire, so excess water or moisture must be monitored and removed.
- Deodorization of the affected areas.
- Pre-testing and initial cleaning. Initial cleaning may help prevent additional damage caused by soot residue, and pre-testing allows the technician to determine what can be restored to help eliminate needless and costly expenses.
- Conducting building inspections to evaluate the loss site for any safety or health hazards.
Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your Fire Restoration needs!
Taking Preventative Steps to Keep Your House Dry
12/6/2016 (Permalink)
Taking Preventative Steps to Keep Your House Dry
Water damage can occur in homes in a variety of ways. Homeowners should check for leaks throughout their houses, inspecting pipes and connections in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. Look under and around sinks and around bathtubs for any discoloration. Do not ignore connections to dishwashers or to refrigerators with water and ice dispensers.
Make sure water is flowing properly down drains. If not, try clearing the drain with a plunger or an over the counter solution. If that does not work, call a professional for assistance.
To keep drains and pipes clear, follow some simple steps such as pouring cooking oil into a suitable container and disposing of it properly after it cools and never flushing diapers and other inappropriate items down toilets. In addition, backflow valves should be installed in sanitary and storm sewer lines.
Check the floors around water heaters for wet spots, which could indicate you have a rusted tank or other problem. If necessary, have the tank replaced as soon as possible.
A leak in the roof of your home and clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to significant water damage inside your house. As soon as you notice a leak in your roof have it inspected and repaired immediately. In addition, keep all gutters and downspouts free of leaves and other debris that could cause water to back up and leak into your house.
Owners of properties located in areas prone to flooding should give serious consideration to applying a waterproof coating or membrane to the exterior walls and installing watertight shields over doors, windows and other openings.
When winter hits, keep an eye out for snow accumulation on the downside of a higher- level roof, where blowing snow will pile up. For safe snow removal, ask a roofing contractor for a referral.
Remove snow from basement stairwells, window wells and all walls to prevent water or moisture from penetrating walls. Also, keep attics well ventilated to maintain temperatures close to the outside, which will minimize the risk of ice dams forming.
To ensure that pipes do not freeze and burst, keep the heat in your home at an acceptable level, cover exposed pipes with insulation sleeves or wrapping and open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
If water damage does occur in your home, immediately call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton (912) 538-1323 for restoration services. SERVPRO’s teams will:
- Assess damage for restorability and safety.
- Determine the extent of the moisture content in effected areas.
- Move and prop up furniture on blocks if necessary.
- Extract the water.
- Remove carpets and carpet pads if necessary.
- Spray to treat germs and bacteria in contaminated areas.
- Start the drying process with air movers and dehumidification equipment.
- Ensure rooms are completely dry and conduct a walk through with homeowners to guarantee customer satisfaction.
Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding a possible water, mold, of fire damage loss.
SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, we are always here to help! Call (912)538-1323 for all you restoration needs!
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