Need Shelter?

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

Are you in need of a place to stay? The United States has been split into four zones based on 40 years of tornado history and more than 100 years of hurricane history, which geographically represent the number and strength of violent windstorms. Zone IV has seen the most and the most powerful tornadoes. Zone III comprises coastal areas that are vulnerable to hurricanes and has seen a lot of tornado activity. Check with your local building official, meteorologist, emergency management official, or television weather reporter to discover more about the wind history in your area. Your home was most likely constructed in compliance with local construction codes that take into account the impacts of "code-approved" design winds in your location.

Shelter's Objective

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

The Foundations of Shelter Design

A shelter's objective is to provide a safe haven for you and your family to withstand a tornado or hurricane with minimal or no damage. The shelter cannot be built in a storm-prone area where it will be swamped during a hurricane. Your refuge should be easily accessible from all sections of your house and be clutter-free. The shelter must be adequately attached to the home foundation to prevent overturning and elevation in order to protect the residents during severe windstorms. The connections between all sections of the shelter must be robust enough to withstand failure, and windborne projectiles must not penetrate the walls, roof, or door.

Prevent Office Water Damage

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

How Can Water Damage In The Office Be Prevented?

Place office supplies and stationery in the appropriate locations.
Keep permeable materials like boxes and paper off the ground. While this may appear to be plain sense, people frequently overlook it, resulting in a disaster. Stationary and paperwork should be stored in higher cabinets so that nothing is lost if the floor floods. It's not a good idea to stack paperwork so near to the ground since water will rise to other papers if it comes into contact with the papers below. Computers and other electronic devices should also be hiked in price. Many offices have a policy of keeping CPUs under their desks.

Damage Structure Costs

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

The Cost of Demolition and Repairing a Damaged Structure

Many water pipes are hidden under walls, ceilings, floors, and other difficult-to-reach places. When an inside pipe bursts, you may need to demolish a piece of the structure to fix it.

Most property insurance policies, fortunately, cover the expense of ripping out and replacing any component of the structure you remove to repair damage to the plumbing system or an appliance (such as a boiler) from which water or another substance has escaped.

Assume that the supply line for the water fountain is positioned inside a wall in the scenario described above. A piece of the wall must be removed to obtain access to the damaged pipe.

Long-Term Moisture

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

Long-term flooding or moisture is likely to harm most interior finishes and contents, although the following methods may be viable if the flooding is brief and cleanup started quickly. Delay permanent repairs until the building has completely dried out, which could take many weeks.

Subfloors

Subfloor layers of submerged plywood or OSB will most likely separate or swell. To keep the new floor covering from buckling, affected parts must be replaced.
Allow the subflooring to dry thoroughly after removing floor coverings, which may take months without a dehumidifier.
Before installing new flooring, inspect it for warping.

Wooden Flooring

Remove a board carefully every few feet to prevent buckling caused by swelling. Consult a carpenter or flooring professional if the boards are tongue-and-grooved.
Before replacing boards and undertaking repairs, properly clean and dry the floor, which could take weeks.

Protect Your Business

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your business with adequate wind and hail insurance coverage

A destructive storm can hit anywhere, but certain areas of the country are more likely to experience windstorms – a fact that may be reflected in your business’s insurance coverage. Wind and hail insurance claims are covered through commercial property insurance which can help you pay to repair or replace damaged property, including equipment, supplies, and structures. A business owners policy (BOP), which is specifically designed for small businesses, bundles commercial property with general liability insurance at an affordable price, and can also potentially pay for business property damage in the event of a storm.

If you’re in an area with a high risk of windstorms, review your policy language carefully with your Insureon agent. If you’re located in a high-risk zone, you may be able to purchase coverage as an endorsement to your standard small business insurance policy. This could mean a higher premium but more coverage in the event of a serious storm.

Stop The Flow!

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

Put a stop to the flow of water at the source.

Unless the flooding is the result of a natural calamity, identify the source of the water and shut it down or lock it up. The simplest way to stop water flow is to turn off the main water valve to the house. Locate the valve before it floods if feasible so that you can find it quickly in the case of a water emergency.

Turn off the power.

After the source of the water has been turned off, switch off any electrical systems in your home—but don't walk through water to get to the fuse box. If you can't reach the fuse box without stepping in water, call an electrician.

Evacuate the structure.

If a pipe has broken or a sewage leak has occurred, evacuate the premises and seek a dry, safe spot outside your home. It could be in your own backyard or as far away as a neighbor's or friend's house. Check to check that everyone is safe and undamaged, including children, dogs, and anyone else who may have been at the house.

In the event of a natural disaster, consult authorities or listen to local news to find a temporary shelter. Evacuate everyone to the shelter as soon as possible.

Safety Is Key

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

A flood is one of the most damaging and devastating things you may ever endure as a homeowner. Household flooding can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Heavy downpours
Back-up sewer system
The sump-pump isn't working.
Pipes burst
Whatever the cause, you should still know what to do if your house floods. Taking care of the problem as soon as possible will help decrease the amount of damage and make clean-up and repair easier.

First and foremost, safety.

The most important thing to do in any severe house tragedy is to stay safe. If the flooding is severe enough, you may be forced to abandon your home. When you come home to begin dealing with the consequences, make sure you are also protected. Turning off the power may be necessary, as water and electrical do not mix. When you return home, use protective clothing, such as rubber boots and gloves. Not only will you have to deal with the water, but also with whatever else the water has come into contact with, such as debris or even sewage. It is vital to safeguard oneself from any potentially toxic chemicals or materials that may have been washed in by the floodwaters.

Flooding Steps

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Do not take a flooded home or business as a lighthearted matter.  You should be very serious in your attempts to enter your home after it has been flooded.  Keep these in mind after a flood damage in the Phelps County and surrounding areas.

• Disconnect all the Electronics-these can start fires if left on
• Move anything not bolted to the ground-furniture and tables should be moved out
• Have a Restoration Company remove the water-Extraction of water helps with the drying process
• Get rid of moisture in the affected area-dehumidification will help keep the mold from growing
• Disinfect the home-part of the cleaning process is to disinfect the house before rebuilding.
• Dispose of waste responsibly-tearing out items from the home is naturally the case.  Remember to take into consideration items with asbestos or you could be fined for disposing of them incorrectly.

When in need call SERVPRO of River Oaks, we are here to help 24/7.

Flooding? Call Us Today!

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of River Oaks specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important.  A fast response lessons the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Our Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit the Rolla and surrounding areas, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster.  We can access equipment and personnel from a network of Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?  Call Us Today  SERVPRO of River Oaks, (281-342-5326)

Act Fast and Reduce Flood Damage!

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Why You Need to Act Fast When There’s a Flood

In the aftermath of flood damage due to a heavy storm, ground water, or water damage from a burst pipe in the basement, homeowners must act within the first 24-48 hours to help prevent secondary water damage from setting in and becoming a much larger project to restore. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is among TX’s premier mold remediation companies and can arrive at the scene promptly to help prevent further damage.

Often, homeowners try to reverse the damage on their own, but this only delays the process further, allowing water damage to occur continuously until they eventually seek the help of water damage restoration companies. 

Outlined below are the steps a homeowner or business owner in West Fort Bend County, should take to best combat residential or commercial water damage.

Avoid Additional Risks and Act Safely

Immediately after a storm that causes flooding, families should check for their safety before sifting around or re-entering. The Federal Emergency Management Agency warns families to check for visible structural damage like loosened or cracked foundation before returning home.

Likewise, homeowners should contact utility companies and stay clear of areas with the most flood damage if they suspect gas or electric lines sustained damage in the disaster. Entering a dangerous site is never worth the risk, especially if a professional water damage restoration team is already on the way.

Get the Right Water Cleanup Team on the Job ASAP

A flood presents an emergency for many homeowners and business owners. For that reason, homeowners should contact an emergency water damage restoration team the moment they notice flooding.

Hiring an experienced water and mold removal company is the quickest way to reverse any damage. Industrial-level equipment will always do a better job than equipment homeowners could rent or buy.

Find a company with stunning reviews known for a variety of damage restoration services including commercial cleaning services. A company who has satisfied clients in all areas of damage restoration including fire, flood, water, mold remediation, and commercial cleaning will give you confidence in the level of service you will receive. 

How to Prepare for the Water Damage Restoration Company

In the aftermath of a major storm or flooding event, the damage restoration company may take some time to arrive due to road conditions, increased need for services, and other factors. A reputable company will be able to provide a home or business owner with tips on how to assist with prevention of secondary water damage or microbial growth while waiting for professionals to arrive.

While waiting for the water damage restoration service to arrive, homeowners should take pictures and videos of the damage and contact their insurance companies. They should next remove all wet items from the home if it is safe to do so.

Ultimately, a homeowner cannot do a lot to reverse the water damage. Instead, they may need to leave the premises so that the water and fire restoration companies can arrive at the scene and begin working as quickly as possible.

Flood Damage Restoration from SERVPRO

The best way to prevent secondary water damage in the 24 hours after a flood is by calling SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County go-to fire and water restoration company. The sooner a homeowner acts, the easier a water cleanup company can clean up the mess and return them home to normal.

SERVPRO is always prepared to respond to any weather conditions when an emergency occurs. Immediate action mitigates flood damage, and there’s no way to combat the damage effectively without enlisting the help of a professional service company.

Reverse flood damage today. Contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County 281-342-5326.

Animals Cause Water Damage?

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

How can animals cause water damage?

Statistics show that US residents spend 13 Billion annually to restore property water damages while around 14,000 Americans face water damage emergencies daily. The causes of these water damage events may vary from natural causes such as thunderstorms and hurricanes to sprinkler malfunction and plumbing leaks. SERVPRO, a water damage restoration company in West Fort Bend County reveals how pest infestation can lead to severe water damage. 

Water Leak Facts

The following facts highlight the importance of regular inspection and maintenance of equipment and plumbing to prevent enormous water damage.

• Household leaks can waste more than 10,000 gallons of water every year on average.
• 1 trillion gallons of water is wasted in households every year.
• 10 percent of unsuspected leaks in homes waste 90 gallons or more per day.
• The most common types of leaks in homes are worn toilet flappers, dripping faucets, and other leaking valves. 
• A leak fixed in time can cut down 10 percent of water bills. 
• Regular inspection and maintenance of faucets, toilet flappers, and showerheads can save enormous water damage restoration costs.  

Water leaks attract animals leading to further damage 

Plumbing is one of the coziest and safest spaces for rodents and pests to build their homes. The ample supply of food and water and the security of the plumbing attracts the animals to begin residing in the pipes in attics, between walls, in cabinets, and in crawl spaces. A water leak left undetected for too long is like a homing beacon for these animals.

Naturally, a rodent or pests residing in a home is accompanied by a vast array of diseases and related contamination and destruction. 

All the plastic pipes made of PVC, CPVC, and PEX will encourage the rodents and pests to chew upon them and cause even the healthy pipes to leak. Even galvanized steel pipes are chewed upon by rodents to file down their dangerously pointed and growing teeth. When it gets dry, critters crawl into the pipes for some respite and water. Some of the common animals that nibble on household pipes and cause water damage are:

• Mice and rats
• Squirrels 
• Opossums
• Raccoons
• Chipmunks
• Skunks
• Dogs

The ongoing onslaught on the plumbing system eventually leads to a complete collapse of the pipes, leading to major water damage events. The resultant property damages can be overwhelming. To prevent such a catastrophic event from occurring, property owners must get in touch with a water damage restoration company like SERVPRO to inspect the possible source of the water leak and control the damage at the earliest. 

Homeowners may fail to understand the source of the leak or realize the presence of unwanted residents in their homes. An experienced eye, on the other hand, can immediately identify if the cause of the water leak is rodents and pests. Once the cause has been recognized, professional water damage restoration companies take immediate action to check the damage and reverse it. They may choose to replace parts of the chewed pipe or completely replace the damaged pipes besides cleaning any other contamination caused by the animals.

Notably, rodents and pests can also entail fire hazards. More often than not, these animals may end up gnawing electrical wires as well. After wearing down the soft, plastic coating on electrical wires the rodents find it easy to wear down their teeth with the metal wire inside the insulation. These damaged electrical wires left undetected can easily lead to structural fires.

If homeowners detect the presence of rodents and pests, leaking pipes, damaged electrical wires, and/or infections, they must immediately contact a professional water damage restoration service and plumbing services to address the issue.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend Countyis always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in West Fort Bend County, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill-up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

Stop The Leak Fast!

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326.

Before you add a clamp, add a block of wood.

If you're in a hurry and don't have the proper tools, you can improvise by placing a block of wood over the piece of rubber before tightening a clamp. The block of wood will help to spread the pressure and keep the pipe from collapsing.

Obtain a C-Clamp

For a temporary remedy, place a C-clamp over the block of wood and a piece of rubber to plug the leak.

Remove the faulty pipe.

If you're more experienced with plumbing repairs, you might go ahead and cut out the damaged section of the pipe. Turn off the main water supply valve, empty the damaged water line, and cut out a length of pipe that extends about 1 in. on each side of the leak with a pipe cutter. Begin by securely grasping the pipe in the cutter's jaws and tightening the cutter's screw. As you tighten the screw handle, rotate the cutter in the direction illustrated until the pipe snaps.

Prevent Frozen Pipes!

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

We are #HereToHelp!

Winter storms can cause plumbing lines to freeze and perhaps burst, resulting in flooding and costly water damage to your home. Preventing frozen pipes and other cold-weather risks can be reduced or eliminated by taking preventive actions before winter arrives. "Because of their location in the residence, some pipes are more prone to freezing than others."

The following pipes are particularly vulnerable to freezing:

Pipes that are exposed in unheated portions of the house.
Pipes that are positioned on the outside of the walls.
Any plumbing on the home's outside. 

If you have a busted pipe emergency call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326, we are here to help.

What Happens When A Frozen Pipe Busts?

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326.

The easiest method to deal with frozen pipes is to prevent them from occurring in the first place.

But, if the unexpected happens, you'll need to act quickly to limit the damage and restoration costs.

Why do frozen pipes burst?

According to Roto-Rooter spokesman Paul Abrams, not all frozen pipes explode. However, when one does, it is due to the fact that water expands as it freezes, putting significant pressure on inflexible plumbing pipes. That pressure can induce a small breach at a joint or crack in a length of pipe, allowing full flow of water into your home.

Water damage caused by burst pipes is one of the most common homeowners insurance claims, with an average claim cost of around $5,000.

How to Spot Freezing Pipes

A frost-coated water line (or one that bulges like a well-fed python) is a solid indication that it's frozen, although not all plumbing pipes are visible.

"If your faucets aren't working and your toilets aren't refilling after a flush, it's a good

sign your pipes are frozen,"

Blood Cleanup?

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326.

The most prevalent location for blood spills is on a hard, non-carpeted surface. Tile, ceramic, vinyl, linoleum, metal, wood, cement, and any other non-absorbent flooring, such as a pool deck, are examples of these surfaces. Cleaning up blood and other bodily fluids from various surface types is easier than cleaning up on absorbent surfaces, but there are still vital precautions to take.

Spills on hard surfaces can spread over larger regions, so the spill must be contained fast. The following are the processes for cleaning up spills on these surfaces:

Close off the area until the cleanup and disinfection are finished. The location should not be accessible to tourists or unprotected staff members.
Don a pair of disposable gloves.
Wipe up as much of the spill as you can using a paper towel or other absorbent material.
Pour a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) gently over all affected areas.
Allow the bleach solution to remain on the contaminated area for 20 minutes before wiping up any residual bleach solution.
All non-disposable cleaning materials, such as mops, brushes, and rags, must be disinfected by soaking them in a bleach solution and allowing them to air dry.
Remove the gloves and store them in a rubbish bag with the rest of the soiled cleaning supplies.
Garbage bags should be double-bagged and tightly tied before being discarded.

Flood Water Cleanup

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Call us today at 281-342-5326.

You can start cleaning after you've recorded the damage and filed your claim. Depending on the extent and source of the flooding, you may be able to handle the cleanup on your own or you may need to contact a professional.

Open windows: Unless it will result in more flooding, open as many windows as possible to encourage air circulation.
Remove standing water as soon as possible with a shop vacuum or water pump. Prolonged contact with water can cause additional damage, such as swelling of timber floorboards, so attempt to remove standing water as soon as possible with a shop vacuum or water pump.
Cleanse carpet: Use a carpet cleaner to thoroughly scrub salvageable rugs and carpet, then quickly dry them. If the flood water is tainted with sewage, however, throw away all carpets.

Clean upholstered furniture: Hire a professional to clean your upholstered furniture, and dispose of any damp mattresses.
Remove floorboards: If you have hardwood floors, remove a floorboard every few feet to prevent swelling from buckling the floor. Your adjuster will inform you whether any further floors, tile, or vinyl must be removed to allow the subfloor to dry. Allow wooden floors to dry gradually to avoid cracking.
After you've washed any hard surfaces, sanitize them with diluted chlorine bleach.

What To Do In A Flood Situation

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Call today at 281-342-5326.

What Should You Do If There's a Flood?

If your home or apartment has been flooded, the first step is to ensure that there are no new safety hazards.

To prevent further damage, turn off the water line if it is the source of the flooding.
To avoid electrocution, disconnect all electrical equipment and turn off any electrical fuses, even if the power is already off.
Notify your utility providers if you suspect any damage to your gas, water, electricity, or sewage lines, since these would necessitate professional assistance.
Examine your home for structural damage caused by floods, such as a warped floor or a sagging ceiling.

Taking Pictures of Damaged Items Can Save You!

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Once the catastrophe has passed and you’ve checked in with friends and family, the next step is to call your insurance agent to report any property damage.

If it is safe to do so, protect your property from further damage by making small emergency repairs to your home before an insurance adjuster sees it. This could include boarding up windows, putting a tarp on the roof and salvaging  undamaged items.

If possible, keep damaged items or portions of these items until the claim adjuster has visited your home. Consider photographing or videotaping the damage to provide further documentation to support your claim.

FEMA may also provide assistance after some disasters. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is a phone call away 281-342-5326.

Storm Safety is MOST Important

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Secure equipment and valuables

If you live in an area prone to strong winds or hail, keep an eye on the weather forecast so that you can protect your valuables before a storm hits. Ensure any high-value items are in a safe and secure area, stored up high and away from windows. Any outdoor equipment should be securely fastened so it’s not lost or turned into a projectile during a storm.

Keep your employees safe

In the event of a storm, safety is of the utmost concern. Stay away from windows, and take shelter in the safest part of your property. If your building doesn’t have a designated storm shelter, have employees take shelter in an area devoid of windows, such as a lavatory or break room. Prepare an emergency plan ahead of time and communicate it with employees, so they’ll know what to expect. Practice an emergency drill if possible, so that everyone will be prepared if weather conditions are threatening your safety.

Upgrades Are Essential!

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Upgrade washing machine hoses

Old, brittle or leaky washing machine hoses are among the most frequent causes of water loss for homeowners. Replace yours regularly to avoid a mighty mess and expensive damage.

Install water detection devices

A water detector is a small electronic device that sounds an alarm when its sensor comes in contact with moisture. Its main benefit is that it detects low moisture levels or slow leaks that often go unnoticed. Install it near water heaters, sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers and toilets to prevent extensive damage and mold growth.

Check your water pressure

If the water pressure to your home is set too high, pipes and hoses may fail under the pressure. Buy a water pressure gauge at a local hardware store, attach it to an outside faucet, and turn the faucet to full force. The gauge will give you a reading of the home’s water pressure.

Typical residential water systems are designed for water pressure of 40 to 70 psi. If your home’s water pressure exceeds 100 psi, install a pressure regulator (which is available at hardware stores as well.) 

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is here for all of your restoration needs.

Broken Pipe Coverage?

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Accidental water damage is often part of dwelling coverage, personal property coverage and/or loss of use coverage. Speak to your insurance representative to make sure water damage is a covered loss in each of these home insurance policy components.

Dwelling Coverage

Dwelling coverage is a main component of a home insurance policy. It can help pay to rebuild or repair the physical structure of your home in the event of accidental water damage, fire, severe weather, vandalism or another covered cause of loss.

Your dwelling coverage limits are based on the estimated cost of rebuilding your home. It’s a good idea to check in with your insurance agent about your home’s replacement cost yearly, especially after making improvements. Even small improvements can affect the cost to rebuild your home.

Property Coverage

Person property coverage helps cover your belongings, such as furniture, clothing, sporting goods or electronics, in the event of a covered loss – whether they get damaged at your home, apartment or anywhere in the world.

In the case of accidental water damage from a burst pipe, this means payment for professional cleaning or replacement of furniture and personal belongings, as long as accidental water damage is a covered cause of loss in your policy.

Many policies provide for personal property to be covered at actual cash value rather than replacement cost. You may be able to enhance your policy with full replacement cost coverage.

Always Be Ready For Any Situation

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Be ready to evacuate or stay at home.

Always listen to authorities regarding whether you should evacuate or stay at home.

If a hurricane is coming, you may hear an order from authorities to evacuate (leave your home). Never ignore an order to evacuate. Even sturdy, well-built houses may not hold up against a hurricane. Staying home to protect your property is not worth risking your health and safety.

You may hear an order to stay at home. If driving conditions are dangerous, staying at home might be safer than leaving.

If you need to evacuate:

• Grab your emergency supply kit and only take what you really need with you (cell phone, chargers, medicines, identification like a passport or license, and cash).
• Unplug your appliances. If you have time, turn off the gas, electricity, and water.
• Follow the roads that emergency workers recommend even if there’s traffic. Other routes might be blocked or flooded. Never drive through flooded areas—cars and other vehicles can be swept away or may stall in just 6 inches of moving water.
• Contact your local emergency management office and ask if they offer accommodations for owners and their pets. Learn more about evacuating with your pet.

Hurricane Watch VS Warning

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Know the difference between a hurricane “watch” and “warning.”

Listen for National Weather Service alerts on TV or radio or check for them online. There are two kinds of alerts:

• A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 miles per hour [mph] or higher) are possiblein a stated area. Experts announce hurricane watches 48 hours before they expect tropical-storm-force winds (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) to start.
• A hurricane warning is more serious. It means hurricane-force winds are expected in a stated area. Experts issue these warnings 36 hours before tropical-storm-force winds are expected in the area to give people enough time to prepare for the storm.

For more information about hurricane watches and warnings, Check out the National Weather Service's Hurricane Center. If you hear that there is a hurricane watch or warning in your area, you can take steps to get ready.

Prevent Mold!

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Mold starts when moisture is present. You can prevent moisture in your office space before it becomes a problem by:

Purchasing a dehumidifier– if your office space is prone to humidity, consider purchasing a dehumidifier, which can wick away any excess moisture and prevent mold from spreading in walls, carpeting, or other surfaces.

Being proactive about plumbing– if a sink pipe has burst or a toilet has a clog, be sure to get it fixed right away. Pipes can leak or even worse burst, causing water damage and a serious mold problem. 

Fixing poor insulation– even if you keep office windows and doors closed, poor insulation can cause moisture from the outdoor environment to get in through the cracks causing damage and mold to build up over time.

Scheduling routine maintenance– if your business space does not undergo regular maintenance through cleaning or ventilation inspections, mold may be present. Not only does regular upkeep help to keep a place clean, but if mold is found during a regular checkup or cleaning, it can prevent it from spreading more.

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is here for your restoration needs.

Reduce Indoor Humidity

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Reducing indoor humidity levels is important to keeping your home healthy and mold-free. Those who want to place an indoor fountain in their homes, might consider placing a dehumidifier indoors to reduce humidity levels if their climate is already humid. Relative humidity can be reduced by running your air condition on humid days, using exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Monitor your indoor humidity levels on a regular basis to prevent adverse effects and mold growth. Measure your indoor humidity levels with an indoor humidity meter, which are available at your local hardware store. If your humidity is too low, running a humidifier indoors can help add moisture to the air. Some indoor fountains are designed specifically as humidifiers, sending out mist into the air as well. Be sure to clean your dehumidifiers or humidifiers thoroughly to avoid the build up of dangerous bacteria which can be dispersed in the air when the unit is running.

HVAC Maintenance in Commercial Buildings.

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Prevent water damage from HVAC in commercial buildings

A water leak in HVACs in commercial buildings can become a source of distress and damage to property and operations. SERVPRO shares below the maintenance tips for several components of HVAC.

1. Air filters

A monthly inspection of air filters is a must to ensure the equipment is not overworked and isn’t causing the evaporator coils to freeze and defrost. Air filters can be inspected by following the operations and maintenance manual. In case the filters are located inside the furnace or air handler, it is advised to hire a professional to change the filters. In the presence of dust and debris, filters must be replaced as per the manufacturer’s recommendation. A reusable filter must be cleaned and dried properly before being reinstalled. HEPA filters (high-efficiency particulate air filters) are the best option but it is important to install filters that the HVAC needs. Depending on the size of the equipment, multiple filters may need replacement.

1. Condensate drains

The condensate drains and drain pans must be inspected monthly, especially if the HVAC is working across the year to cool the premises. If dirt, algae, or other contaminants are found, the drain line should be flushed with an algae inhibitor once or twice a year. Promptly repair any signs of rust, which could indicate a water problem. Ensure that the line draining outdoors or a rooftop drain is pointed away from the structure of the building. Check for any clogs in the drain line and remove the paper filter and attach a dry/wet vacuum to the drain line to suck out the debris. 

1. Air coils

A yearly inspection of air coils can help ensure the equipment is operating at maximum capacity. Low levels of refrigerant and dirty air filters are common causes of evaporator coils freezing up. Over-sizing an HVAC is another cause of freeze-ups as the unit becomes susceptible to short cycling, inadequate dehumidification, and significant temperature variations. Broken fans, blocked condensate lines, malfunctioning thermostats, and low pressure inside the system are other usual causes of frozen evaporator coils. 

Moreover, coils should be carefully brushed or vacuumed to remove dust and debris. The outdoor condensing units should be clean from grass clippings and other debris and must remain level for water to drain properly.

1. Ductwork

When the ductwork is not insulated excess condensation will be formed inside the unit when the cool air comes in contact with warmer ducts. This can lead to leaks from the HVAC and the vents. The condensation can accumulate on the exterior surface of the ducts as well and seep into the ceiling, creating a perfect environment for mold, mildew, and dry rot. The fresh air supply ducts must be devoid of debris and, if necessary, filtered at the inlet. The ductwork must be inspected for dust, insulation, rust, condensation, and tight connections. Repairs at the first sign of condensation and rust will help save a lot of expenses.

1. Condensate pump

The role of a condensate drain pump is to collect and remove the condensate water produced by the HVAC. If the pump breaks down, the water from the HVAC will collect inside the system and eventually overflow. The pump must be checked for any blockages or algae build-up in the check valve to prevent the water leak.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in West Fort Bend County or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For commercial water damage restoration, call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326.

Fire Sprinkler Myths

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Fire sprinkler myths busted

Fire sprinklers are one of the most effective means of controlling a fire and preventing an uncontrollable blaze. However, several myths discourage homeowners from installing sprinkler systems. SERVPRO busts these myths below. 

Statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) show that the civilian death rate was 81 percent lower in homes with sprinklers; average firefighter injury rate was nearly 80 percent lower when fire sprinklers were present and; fires were contained in the room of origin 97 percent of the time when sprinklers were present. 

Myth #1

A smoke alarm is enough

The function of smoke alarms is to alert the occupants of the fire danger and inform emergency services of the fire incident. However, an alarm does not help douse a fire. The myth about installing either a smoke alarm or a fire sprinkler system is baseless because the purpose of both gadgets is very different.

A sprinkler is the first line of defense against fire. It reduces the heat, flames, and smoke and allows the occupants to get out of the building safely. A fire incident with no sprinkler systems can quickly spiral out of control by the time emergency help arises.

Myth #2

Every sprinkler will turn on when there is a fire 

Sprinklers are designed to detect the heat of a fire and activate only in the affected areas. This is a myth that when a fire incident occurs all sprinklers will go off and cause a serious amount of flooding in the building. When a small fire starts only one or two sprinklers are triggered. Despite popular belief, smoke, cooking vapors, or a little steam does not trigger a fire sprinkler. 

Myth #3

Water damage from the sprinklers is as bad as the fire damage they prevent

Firstly, water damage from an activated sprinkler is not the main concern, the safety of the occupants is. The fire sprinklers allow the occupants to escape to safety before the emergency services arrive. Secondly, when a fire goes out of control, the water used by the fire department is eight-and-a-half times more than the water dispersed by a sprinkler system. A sprinkler system can prevent the fire from getting out of control in much less water. The water damage caused by a fire hose can extend to expensive possessions, upholstery, and even the structural integrity of the property.

Myth #4

Sprinklers will freeze in winters and become useless

Homeowners in cold regions struggle with frozen pipes and therefore assume that sprinkler systems would also freeze. However, a properly installed sprinkler system will continue to function effectively irrespective of the weather. This worry is completely unfounded. Sprinkler systems provide a lot of fire safety in all weathers across the world. 

Myth #5

Sprinklers are prone to leaking and can activate accidentally

The odds of a manufacturing defect leading to an accidental sprinkler discharge are very low: 1 in 16 million. A sprinkler would leak without a fire only when it has not been maintained well or has a faulty part. The worry that fire sprinklers will regularly leak or turn on without warning is a myth. A smoke alarm turns on when they detect smoke, whereas a sprinkler turns on when it detects high temperatures. Therefore, a slice of bread in the toaster may activate a smoke alarm but it won't set off sprinklers.

Myth #6

Sprinklers are required in older buildings only

Modern constructions do take fire safety into account whereas older buildings have no such arrangements. However, even a new construction is not fire-resistant and needs fire sprinklers. Fires are more common in older buildings due to outdated electrical wiring but every building irrespective of its age needs to install fire safety gadgets such as fire sprinklers for adequate protection.  

Post-Fire Checklist!

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Post-fire checklist

There are multiple reasons a fire may occur at a home. Once the fire is extinguished, there are hundreds of things that need to be taken care of besides the fire damage restoration of the home itself. SERVPRO understands how daunting a challenge this can be, and shares a simple post-fire checklist that homeowners can use to decide their next steps.

1. Contact family

A fire is a traumatic event that can overwhelm. It is a time when everyone needs support from family and friends. Letting family and friends know about the incident is important to begin the process of rehabilitation and restoration.

Also, inform the property owners immediately so they can take steps regarding their property and recovery.  

2. Call insurance company

Notify the insurance agent to begin the claim process immediately. Until the fire is reported to the insurance company, repairs cannot begin. And the longer the repairs are delayed the worse the damage can become. Once the process begins, an insurance agent can handle property emergencies, lodging, and living expenses.

Contact the personal bank, mortgage lender, auto insurance agent (in case of vehicle damage), and utility company. Notification of the fire damage event to these entities may provide relief from late fees on payments while the restoration work takes place.

Fire damage restoration companies like SERVPRO work with insurance companies by providing repair estimates and helping with claims. Make sure to get a copy of the fire report which is helpful in providing more information for the insurance agency.

3. Get the property assessed 

An insurance adjuster is likely to visit to evaluate the fire damage to the house. This evaluation will determine if the home can be saved, or if it must be demolished and rebuilt.

In case the house can be saved, a professional fire damage and water damage restoration company like SERVPRO can come to the rescue. Besides the direct damage from the fire, damage caused by heat, smoke, and soot will also need redressal. The water damage caused by fire extinguishing activities is another aspect that must be addressed at the earliest to avoid secondary water damage such as mold.

Fire damage often runs deep and it takes a professional restoration team’s skills and state-of-the-art equipment to detect and amend the damage that may be invisible to the inexperienced eye. 

4. Get clearance to enter the house 

Await a clearance from the fire department before entering the house that has been damaged by fire. There is often hidden damage that can lead to the fire restarting. Damaged roofs and floors could also collapse and cause serious injury. Additionally, there are health effects associated with inhaling smoke and soot that must be addressed before moving back in.

Entering the house too soon can also impact the insurance claim so it’s advised to await the green signal from the fire department and the insurance company. 

5. Organize the possessions

Segregating the damaged and undamaged items in the house helps to be more organized. A list of all undamaged articles along with their details such as model number, current price, and receipts is very useful while filing an insurance claim. Providing photos of these items is also advisable.   

Undamaged items must be removed from the fire-damaged property to protect them from looting. These items can be stored safely in a rented storage unit restoration of the house is complete. 

This assessment of damaged contents can be done by the homeowner or a professional restoration company. A professional restoration team will be able to assess if certain items can be restored or not. This can help reduce the claim and also help save valuable items that can’t be replaced with money.

6. Find a place to stay while the house gets restored

Until a professional team has restored the house and disposed of all unsafe elements including mold, smoke, soot, and unstable structures, the homeowner would need another place to stay. Most insurance policies will pay for the food, clothing, and shelter for a specified period of time. Homeowners can contact local disaster relief services such as the American Red Cross, government agencies, the local church, or family and friends for a safe and temporary place to stay in until the house is restored. 

After a fire event, it is crucial to take care of one’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. So a comfortable place to stay is crucial.

7. Restore, rebuild, and move forward

With the help of the insurance agent and a professional restoration company like SERVPRO, homeowners can begin the task of restoring and rebuilding their homes and eventually return to their lives. 

It is important to deal with the right fire damage restoration company to ensure that the restoration work is accurate, economical, and swift.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in West Fort Bend Conty, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

Have An Emergency Action Plan!

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

All employers must have an emergency action plan (EAP) and communicate it to employees. This document covers a number of potential emergencies, including fire, and spells out the responsibilities each employee has when the plan has to be activated. Our video, Emergency Action Preparedness: Checklist takes you through the steps of developing your own EAP checklist, which helps you ensure that everyone at your workplace is prepared in case of emergency.

Part of the EAP includes procedures on how to evacuate. Getting your employees out of the workplace safely is your top priority. Practice this plan throughout the year to help ensure an orderly exit in case of fire or other emergency.

Remember, no matter the size or type of business, the risk of workplace fires is present. Having a plan and training your employees how to react quickly will help protect your workplace and reduce the risk of injuries and fatalities should a fire break out.

Office Fire Causes

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Heating equipment (11%)

Like electric systems, office furnaces and vents are silent threats that can spark fires if they’re not kept in good repair. Central heating systems are the most common type of heating system, responsible for more than half the office fires in this category. That’s a marked difference from home fires sparked by heating equipment, where space heaters are most often to blame, according to a different NFPA study

How to prepare: Get a fire safety assessment, including central heating inspection.

A fire safety professional can identify heating systems that are at risk of causing fires, as well as factors that could exacerbate fires that do occur.

https://resources.impactfireservices.com/the-6-main-causes-of-office-fires-and-how-to-protect-your-organization

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is here for all of your restoration need

After a Fire

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

After a Fire

The following checklist serves as a quick reference and guide for you to follow after a fire strike.

• Contact your local disaster relief service, such as The Red Cross, if you need temporary housing, food and medicines.
• If you are insured, contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on protecting your property, conducting inventory and contacting fire damage restoration companies.
• Check with the fire department to make sure your residence is safe to enter. Watch out for any structural damage caused by the fire.
• The fire department should make sure that utilities are either safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site. DO NOT attempt to reconnect utilities yourself.
• Conduct an inventory of damaged property and items. Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made.
• Begin saving receipts for any money you spend related to fire loss. The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and for verifying losses claimed on your income tax.
• Notify your mortgage company of the fire.

Portable Space Heaters

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326!

Portable Space Heaters

• Keep combustible objects at least three feet away from portable heating devices.
• Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Check to make the portable heater has a thermostat control mechanism and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over.
• Only use crystal clear K-1 kerosene in kerosene heaters. Never overfill it. Use the heater in a well-ventilated room.

Fireplaces and Woodstoves

• Inspect and clean woodstove pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions.
• Use a fireplace screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks.
• Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed.

Children

• Take the mystery out of fire play by teaching children that fire is a tool, not a toy.
• Store matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children unattended near operating stoves or burning candles, even for a short time.

Attics and Crawl Spaces

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Call today SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326

Inaccessible attics and crawl spaces are easy to forget about, but 13% of electrical fires start in these neglected spaces. Electrical failure or malfunction account for about 88% of these fires.

If you live in an older home, suspect dubious DIY electrical work, or want reassurance that everything is in order, hire a professional, licensed electrician to check it out and address issues. While electrical problems can be expensive to fix, the cost of neglecting it can be devastating.

Laundry rooms

Laundry rooms are where 4% of residential fires begin, with dryers being the culprit of 92% of laundry room fires.

Fortunately, preventing laundry fires is simple for the most part:

• Don’t overload your washer or dryer or pack items down. Instead, leave room for laundry to tumble. Follow your machine manufacturer’s recommendations for capacity.
• Clean the lint screen and drum between loads to prevent buildup.
• About once a year, clean the dryer exhaust vent and ducts.
• Replace plastic venting material with flexible metal venting material.
• Ensure that your appliances are plugged into outlets with the proper voltage

Inventory is Important!

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Your insurance company will want an inventory of everything that was lost or damaged during the fire. Your agent can provide you with an inventory sheet. Review any inventory you made prior to the fire and make additions to it. If you need to reconstruct a list of your belongings from memory, review photographs and video to refresh your memory, and ask friends or relatives who have been in your home to help you compile your list. Review old credit card statements and bank records to determine what you paid for your belongings.

Take care of yourself and family

A home fire is a traumatic experience and you could suffer the effects of the trauma for months and even years afterwards. Allow yourself time to heal, and seek counseling if you have trouble sleeping, concentrating or relating to others weeks after the fire. Return to your normal routines as soon as possible, and help your children to maintain their returns. Talk with children about their feelings and help them to process what has happened.

Staying Warm Before the Storm

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of W est Fort Bend County today for your storm damage restoration. 281-342-5326

Have your furnace inspected before cold weather arrives. Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks, install a clean air filter, and check the thermostat to see if it’s working properly. Inspect fireplaces, and chimneys before using, and have them cleaned if needed. Keep drapes and blinds closed, except when windows are in direct sunlight. Put up storm windows, or install sheet plastic window insulation kits on the inside of windows. Cover or remove any window air conditioners. Insulate electrical outlets and switches on exterior walls with foam seals available at home centers. Caulk any cracks or holes on the outside of your house. Repair or replace weather stripping and thresholds around doors and windows. Run paddle ceiling fans on low in reverse (clockwise when looking up) to circulate warm air. Put draft snakes on window sills, between window frames, and against doors. If you heat with propane or fuel oil, make sure the tank is full. If you heat with wood or coal, have plenty of fuel on hand.

Storm Prep!

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Remove area debris

While you can’t clear your entire neighborhood of potential missiles, you should remove or secure anything surrounding your home that could become an airborne projectile. That includes lawn furniture, toys and low-hanging branches or limbs. Cutting low-hanging branches, unstable bushes or trees can prevent larger and more expensive accidents from happening. Proper tree pruning also increases the chances that your trees can make it through a storm.

Clean out your gutters & drains

It’s always a good idea to keep your gutters and downspouts clear, as they prevent water from collecting around your home. In the case of a severe storm, clear gutters can prevent instant flooding of your attic or basement. Conduct a visual inspection of your gutters and downspouts to be sure nothing blocks the flow of water from your roof and away from your home.

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326, out highly trained technicians  

Mold Resistant Products!

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326.

Equip Your Home with Mold-Resistant Products

Building a new home or renovating an old one? Use mold-resistant products like mold-resistant drywall or mold-resistant Sheetrock, and mold inhibitors for paints. Traditional drywall is composed of a gypsum plaster core pressed between plies of paper. Mold-resistant drywall is paperless — the gypsum core is covered in fiberglass, making the surface highly water-resistant. Moisture-resistant drywall is especially valuable in areas prone to wetness, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, and kitchens. Not only is traditional drywall more susceptible to mold than the paperless kind, but it is also difficult to rid of mold, and removal and replacement can be expensive. Mold-resistant gypsum board is also available; the core of the drywall is developed in such a way to prevent moisture absorption, and thus prevent mold growth

Identify Problem Areas In Your Home

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today!

Identify Problem Areas in Your Home and Correct Them 

You can't mold-proof your home, but you can make it mold-resistant. Do an audit of your home: where are the problem areas? Does the basement flood? Do you notice frequent condensation on an upstairs window? Is there a water stain on the ceiling from a persistent leak? Preventing mold from growing or spreading might be as simple as ripping up carpet in a damp basement, installing mold-resistant products, or repairing damaged gutters. Or it may be a matter of major excavation and waterproofing. Whatever the case, address the problem now. It might cost some money up front, but it will surely be more costly down the road if mold continues to grow unchecked.

For Mold Restoration Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326.

Have Your Roof Gutters Been Cleaned?

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO today for your restoration needs. 281-342-5326.

Clean or Repair Roof Gutters

A mold problem might be a simple matter of a roof that is leaking because of full or damaged gutters. Have your roof gutters cleaned regularly and inspected for damage. Repair them as necessary, and keep an eye out for water stains after storms that may indicate a leak.

Improve air flow in your home

According to the EPA, as temperatures drop, the air is able to hold less moisture. Without good air flow in your home, that excess moisture may appear on your walls, windows and floors. To increase circulation, open doors between rooms, move furniture away from walls, and open doors to closets that may be colder than the rooms they’re in. Let fresh air in to reduce moisture and keep mold at bay.

Moisture Control IS Mold Control!

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326.

Moisture Control is the Key to Mold Control

• When water leaks or spills occur indoors - act quickly. If wet or damp materials or areas are dried 24-48 hours after a leak or spill happens, in most cases mold will not grow.
• Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.
• Make sure the ground slopes away from the building foundation, so that water does not enter or collect around the foundation.
• Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.
• Keep indoor humidity low. If possible, keep indoor humidity below 60 percent (ideally between 30 and 50 percent) relative humidity. Relative humidity can be measured with a moisture or humidity meter, a small, inexpensive ($10-$50) instrument available at many hardware stores.
• If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes act quickly to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture/water source. Condensation can be a sign of high humidity.

Prevent Plumbing Leaks!

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

10 Tips to Prevent Plumbing Leaks

A plumbing system consists of much more than just the visible components – the sinks, faucets, water heaters, and drain pipes. An extensive network of supply and drain pipes is usually running within walls or floors or buried underground, hidden from the view. 

A poorly maintained or neglected plumbing system in a commercial building or a home can lead to major leaks causing expensive water damage.

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County shares the common causes of plumbing leaks and the various measures business owners and homeowners can take to prevent them.

The common plumbing leak culprits are:

• Dishwashers
• Icemakers
• Water heaters
• Toilets
• Sinks
• Washing machines
• Showers and tubs

10 Preventive Steps 

1. Reduce water pressure 

As per experts, high water pressure simply reduces the life of plumbing as it stresses the pipe joints, faucets, and appliance valves. Water pressure can be measured with a hose bib gauge and should lie within 40-85 psi, normally. Anything above this range will put immense pressure on the plumbing and eventually give way to leaks.  

1. Soften the water 

A high mineral content in water, known as hard water, slowly builds up minerals such as magnesium and calcium in the pipes. This leads to restriction of water flow, corrosion of joints and fittings, and increasing pressure.

Installing a water softener is the best method to combat hard water. Most softeners use sodium to counteract the minerals in the water, but there are electronic softeners that use only electromagnetic pulses to dissolve minerals. 

1. Insulate the pipes

Pipes that are exposed to freezing temperatures or drafts can freeze and leak. It is advisable to insulate all exposed plumbing that is accessible and seal any external openings that allow frigid air to contact water supply lines. When temperatures drop below 25 degrees, the household thermostat should be set at 55 degrees or higher and taps should be left slightly open to allow water to dribble out as long as freezing temperatures persist.

1. Replace washing machine hoses

A leaky or ruptured washing machine hose is a common cause of leaks. Rubber hoses that supply water to washing machines have a lifespan of five years only. Therefore it is a good measure to replace rubber hoses before they leak and use braided stainless steel lines that are much more durable.

1. Do not ignore minor leaks

Leakage of any magnitude is not normal. It is advised to do a visual inspection of all faucets, toilets, and exposed pipes as well as any signs of leaks where the pipes penetrate the walls or foundation. Small pools of water on the floor, water stains near the pipes, or warping of wallboard or paneling could indicate the presence of a leak. 

All plumbing fixtures should be solidly attached to the floor or wall as the seals can break pipe connections. Even a pinhole in supply lines is a sign of internal corrosion that is a warning of the imminent bursting of pipes and severe flooding. These signs must be addressed immediately by a water damage restoration company.

1. Test all shutoff valves

The location of the main water shutoff valve and how to operate it in emergencies must be common knowledge. Since valves often freeze in the open position due to the accumulation of mineral deposits, it is a good practice to test the main valve yearly to ensure it turns off and on easily. All individual shutoff valves such as those installed on the wall behind toilets and under sinks must also be tested. 

1. Inspect the drainage function

Water should travel easily down the drain pipes while creating a familiar swirl pattern as it enters the pipes. The appearance of bubbles or a gurgling sound during drainage could indicate a problem that needs to be corrected.

1. Install floor pans

Floor pans under appliances are the first line of defense against water leakage. They cannot prevent catastrophic leaks but can prevent water damage from minor and slow leaks. 

1. Get a water alarm

Water alarms alert the inhabitants of a water threat. These sensors can be placed in basements, laundry rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, or next to the sump pump.

1.  Purchase a water flow monitoring system

A water flow monitoring system is protection for the complete property. It is attached to the water main and measures the water flow into the premises. In case of continuous water flow that is over and above the normal usage, the system will stop the flow of water automatically.

In case of water damage caused by plumbing leaks, property owners can get in touch with water damage restoration companies like SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County. 

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in of West Fort Bend County, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For water damage restoration services, call SERVPRO® of West Fort Bend County today at (281) 342-5326.

Is Salt Water Connected to Water Damage?

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today for you water damage restoration. 281-342-5326

Four Saltwater Facts and How It Affects Water Damage Restoration

#1: Saltwater Damages Far Exceed Rainwater Issues

The high salt content in saltwater is considerably more destructive than regular rainwater. A home or business can have a professional service dry surfaces contaminated by rainwater. If the surface isn’t delicate and the absorption is minimal, this may often be the end of the story. 

However, saltwater pooling on surfaces sees much more damage. It is extremely corrosive, even when a surface dries off completely. The salt residue continues to eat away at the material beneath—the only way to stop the process is to call water damage restoration experts like SERVPRO who understand residue and flood cleanup.

#2: Salt Water and Electricity—A Terrible Combination

Salt is an excellent conductor of electrical currents. While a home is under saltwater, the water itself can carry a dangerous charge. After the flooding has subsided, salt residue also conducts electricity outside protective features, like electrical fixtures designed to keep people safe. 

The salt residue corrosion also eats through wire cladding on dried-out electrical components, exposing the wiring and causing unexpected short circuits. If there’s a chance that a home or business has a bad combination of salt and electricity, it is best to call a professional water and fire damage restoration service like SERVPRO to handle it safely.

One benefit of SERVPRO’S extensive national network is the 24-hour emergency services and professional building restoration service options, no matter the location. They also offer an air duct cleaning service to sweep the HVAC systems after extensive water damage restoration or electricity issues.

#3: Salt Encourages Extensive Mold Growth

When a building has flooded, damp items tend to play host to unhealthy organic material. However, when floodwaters contain salt, the mold grows even quicker, and it is far more difficult to eradicate. It is important to protect people’s health, and mold removal or mold remediation companies like SERVPRO offer this service as part of water damage restoration.

The highly-trained technicians have honed skills over many years, and the professional service might be the only way to prevent the vigorous mold growth common to saltwater-damaged buildings.

#4: Salt Destabilizes the Property’s Foundations

All major floods carry the danger of soil erosion, but saltwater alters the entire chemical makeup of the soil. It kills plants that aren’t adaptable and destabilizes the structure as the soil shifts and displaces other components. Water removal from around a house or office building is a priority, but this applies even more to saltwater issues. 

Getting rid of the salt residue is the only way to restore the soil and structural integrity. It is a good idea to call in the services of building restoration companies, like SERVPRO. These teams are locally owned and operated, and they know how to handle extensive saltwater damage without compromising the environment around the property.

Prevent Mold Growth!

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

For commercial cleanup and mold remediation services, call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at (281) 342-5326.

6 ways to prevent mold growth in commercial buildings

Mold grows and spreads swiftly in the presence of moisture and heat. Many building materials provide suitable nutrients that encourage mold to grow. Wet cellulose materials, including paper and paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, wood, and wood products, offer a perfect environment for the growth of some molds. Other materials such as dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation materials, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery, also support mold growth. 

If left undetected and unchecked, mold can produce allergens and irritants that can potentially cause several health effects.

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County's mold removal experts shares the numerous measures business owners can take to prevent mold growth in their commercial buildings:

1. Regular inspection

Often, spores multiply long before anyone notices. This is usually the case in areas that are not obvious or are hidden from view, such as underneath sinks and around window frames. Therefore, it is advisable to have a regular mold inspection protocol, especially in building areas or geographical locations where the moisture level is bound to be high. Mold must never be approached without gloves or masks.

1. Timely repair 

Any repairs, major or minor, must be made at the earliest because the longer the issues are neglected, the larger the problem becomes. Water leakage of any sort, especially plumbing leaks, must be addressed immediately by a professional water and mold remediation company before it grows into a full-blown water and mold damage disaster. 

1. Minimize moisture

Mold thrives on moisture. Signs of condensation and wet spots around the building foundation, roofs, windows, or ceilings are red flags that must be addressed swiftly to prevent water and structural damage. The following steps could be taken to combat excessive moisture:

1. Insulation: Poor insulation can cause moisture build-up indoors, raising the cooling and heating costs. Proper insulation can reduce heat transfer that causes moisture buildup, preventing the air from outside from getting inside and vice versa.
2. Ventilation: It is crucial to keep the air flowing throughout a building to avoid moisture. Adequate ventilation and change of filters help increase the airflow and keep moisture at bay. 
3. Dehumidification: Indoor humidity should be below 60% relative humidity or 30-50%, if possible. Dehumidifiers are ideal for this purpose.
4. Unobstructed drip pans: Keep any heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, sloped, and flowing properly as they can provide an ideal environment for mold to thrive.
   
   

1. Service the HVAC unit

The HVAC system must always be clean and well-maintained. Replacing air filters regularly, applying an HVAC mold inhibitor, using a disinfectant before applying mold inhibitor, keeping the ducts dry, and checking for air intakes should be a part of an HVAC strategy to combat mold growth. 

A complicated HVAC system may, however, require professional assistance.

1. Dry foundation

The grade around the building should slope away from the foundation so there is no water pooling. The grade may deteriorate over time and should be checked periodically. The drainage should also be checked for any debris and clogs to ensure proper flow. 

1. Flat roof drainage 

A flat commercial roof generally has poor drainage due to design issues. Well-maintained rain gutters, scuppers, and inner drains can help with the proper drainage and keep mold at bay. 

Mold can be controlled through regular commercial building maintenance and inspections combined with the proper design, installation, and maintenance of commercial HVAC systems. 

For commercial cleaning services and mold removal, commercial property owners can reach out to a professional team such as SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County. 

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in West Fort Bend County, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.
• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

Commercial Cleaning

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Storm, fire, water, or mold emergency at your commercial property or office?

When crises like these arise, it is imperative to contact a licensed and specialized commercial cleaning and restoration company that will efficiently and swiftly restore your property to its preloss condition. This allows for businesses to resume and for life to return to normal.

SERVPRO has restored and cleaned numerous small office buildings, restaurants, high-rises, and government/military bases. With its unique blend of training, experience, and equipment, SERVPRO has a multitude of commercial cleaning and restoration services that will undo the damage to a business at the earliest.

• Commercial water damage restoration

Left unchecked, moisture from floods, rainwater, burst pipes, and more can leave floors, drywall, and furnishings susceptible to stains and microbial growth.  

SERVPRO team will provide the following resources to manage the damage and restore the property:

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician

• Commercial fire damage restoration

Fire and smoke damage to a business or commercial property is often accompanied by secondary water damage - a by-product of firefighting and suppression efforts with water. SERVPRO takes care of the damage with the following experts that address every individual challenge presented by fire:

• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

• Commercial mold remediation 

Mold is caused by various factors, one of them being water damage such as a slow roof leak or loose plumbing fitting. A mold problem poses potential health effects to people. A highly-trained team of specialized technicians helps remediate the mold damage caused:

• Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician

• Commercial storm damage restoration

Storms with wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding can occur suddenly and cause substantial damage to properties in the blink of an eye. 

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of elite, large-loss specialists who are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle disasters of any magnitude. A commercial operations manager supervises the recovery by ensuring seamless communication and timely mitigation.

• Commercial cleaning services

SERVPRO offers cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. 

• Air Ducts and HVAC - It is important to maintain air ducts and HVAC systems to save energy and improve the air quality for everyone in the building. Cleaning the motor, housing, fans, grilles, coils, and register are some of the focus areas of cleaning. 
• Biohazard and Sewage - An unfortunate situation may require sanitation cleanup services to accident, crime scene, or suicide cleanup. This requires meticulous handling and a specialized cleaning process.
• Trauma and Crime Scene - The cleaning and decontamination of trauma scenes are vital to the health and safety of residents and employees. SERVPRO technicians use specialized equipment, protective gear, and specifically designed solutions to make sure the affected area is hygienic and clean.
• Carpet and Upholstery - The technicians determine the best way to clean the building and ensure that each different type of carpet is properly cleaned and cared for. 
• Drapes and Blinds - The team, equipped with state-of-the-art gadgets, inspect and test fabrics to determine the appropriate cleaning system to clean fine fabrics and intricate pieces. 
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors - Following a remodeling or reconstruction, these areas must be cleaned up of the dirt and grime that is inevitable. This allows for cleaner air and prevents dust on the property.
• Odor Removal and Deodorization - The source of the odor is identified by the technicians. It is then eliminated with the help of several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces.
• Vandalism - It can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. In addition to removing spray-painted graffiti from exterior walls, SERVPRO also cleans driveways, walkways, asphalt, metals, wood, glass, plastic, and masonry.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in West Fort Bend County, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill-upgradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For commercial cleaning and restoration services, call SERVPRO® of West Fort Bend County today at (281) 342-5326.

Choose The Right Commercial Restoration Contractor

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Call us today at 281-342-5326.

Tips on Choosing the Right Commercial Restoration Service Contractor

When selecting a commercial restoration contractor, business owners should consider a variety of factors beyond just their budget and the type of restoration required:

• Response time:  Choose a company with 24-hour support staffed by their employees, not an answering service. Make sure they have a large enough fleet of trucks to send someone out right away to address the issue.

• Restoration time: Getting a business up and running again after suffering damage is crucial. Make sure to choose a commercial restoration service that can get any damage taken care of within a reasonable timeframe.

• Cost: A reputable commercial restoration service should not overcharge because they know the dire situation of a business suffering water, fire, mold, or storm damage. Make sure to get several quotes to prevent getting overcharged.

• Certified: It is essential to ensure that a commercial restoration service has the proper industry certification and a proven record as a professional and experienced contractor. This trait helps separate the handymen from the trained technician who knows how to handle severe damage.

• Testimonials and reviews: Search for reviews and testimonials of or for potential commercial restoration services. These are great items to get a feel for how services handle different issues.

Doing the research and choosing the right building restoration service can save time and help a business avoid significant and costly disruptions.

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County has certified technicians with the training, knowledge, and equipment to get any business up and running again in no time. With the largest Emergency Disaster Response Team in West Fort Bend County, TX, they can handle any size problem with 24-hour service.

Questions to Ask Potential Contractors

To help acquire the previously mentioned information, it is also a good idea to ask potential commercial restoration services the following questions:

• Are all your technicians certified?
• How much commercial building restoration experience do you have?
• Is your company licensed and bonded?
• How soon can you be available?
• Do you provide any assurances or warranties on your work?
• What is the restoration process like? 
• How will I be informed of any updates?
• How long must normal business operations be halted while you work?
• What happens if my building receives any more damage while your crews are on-site?
• Have you received any awards or recognition for your commercial building restoration work?

Professionals know their stuff and do not hesitate to provide information when asked. Thus, it will be easy to sort qualified restoration companies from ones that do not have the expertise or experience to get the job done correctly. 

Unprofessional work can lead to even more costly damage, complicating the situation even further than when it began. Always make sure to get as much information as possible upfront to avoid problems.

Reliable Commercial Restoration Services in West Fort Bend County

When it comes to commercial building restoration services in West Fort Bend County, and its surrounding areas, look no further than SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County. Their team is ready for whatever happens, no matter how extensive the damage. 

Filing For A Commercial Fire Damage

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

4 Tips When Filing a Commercial Fire Damage Claim

#1: Thoroughly investigate and document the damage.

It is important to provide the insurance company with detailed documentation for all the damage to the commercial property, no matter how major or minor.

Fire damage can exist in many forms, including structural damage, water damage, smoke damage, and much more. Thoroughly and carefully investigate the commercial property to look for evidence of damage, even in unlikely places.

Document any damage found through multiple methods, including written descriptions, photos, and videos. If possible, find ways to prove that the damage came from the fire and did not exist on the property beforehand. This can help validate the claim and speed up the claims process even further.

Don’t replace or throw away any damaged items until the insurance adjuster has had the opportunity to see them, even if they have already been properly documented.

#2: Keep track of relevant documents and receipts.

FEMA’s statistics show that fires resulted in over $25 billion in property loss in 2019 alone. In most cases, insurance claims are the only way commercial service providers can recover those lost costs. 

That makes determining the value of possessions and damaged property extremely important during the insurance claims process.

Gathering all receipts and documentation can be extremely helpful when trying to show the insurance company what any lost property is worth. Even if there are no physical copies of the purchase receipts, bank or credit card statements can often offer proof of purchase. 

This process can sometimes be long and difficult. It's crucial to start gathering the necessary documentation as soon as possible to help ensure that the insurance company has what they need to move through the claims process and offer compensation as quickly as possible.

#3: Review insurance policy specifics.

The insurance claims process is complex, and important details are sometimes overlooked. Before filing a commercial fire damage claim, have a copy of the insurance policy on-hand. Review all the policy details and double-check them in reference to any benefits or compensation offered by the insurance company. Policy specifics can be a powerful tool during the negotiation process.

#4: Choose a professional and experienced fire damage restoration team that’s familiar with commercial services.

Choosing the right fire damage restoration team is essential to both ensuring the insurance claims process runs smoothly and returning a commercial property back to its pre-fire condition.

A professional and experienced fire damage restoration team like SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County has extensive experience working with insurance companies. They know how to effectively assess the damage, provide proper estimates, and help present detailed documentation to the insurance company.

To learn more about professional commercial fire damage restoration services in the West Fort Bend County area, contact SERVPRO today.

What Is Flood Insurance?

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Call TODAY at 281-342-5326!

Flood insurance is a type of property insurance that covers a dwelling for losses sustained by water damage specifically due to flooding caused by heavy or prolonged rain, melting snow, coastal storm surges, blocked storm drainage systems, or levee dam failure. In many places, a flood is considered a vis major event, and the damage or destruction it causes are uncovered if you do not get supplemental insurance.

• Flood insurance is a type of property insurance that covers a dwelling for losses sustained by water damage specifically due to flooding.
• Flood insurance policies are available for all residential and commercial properties.
• The federal National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers flood insurance to homeowners in participating communities, along with those determined to be in the NFIP-designated floodplains; though the policies are offered through private insurers, the government sets the rates.
•  The pricing of flood insurance policy is based on the NFIP-designated flood zone in which the property is located, as well as the property age, elevation, and the number of floors.
• Annual flood insurance premiums range from around $573 to $1,395.

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today!

Overflow Water Damage and Discharge Water Damage

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Sudden and accidental discharge or overflow from plumbing or appliances are usually covered on standard home policies. Overflow and discharge water damage is the type of water damage most people think about when they imagine a water damage claim in their home.

Overflow involves water escaping or overflowing from appliances, pipes or water outlets in your home. Some examples include your bathtub or washing machine overflowing.

Discharge is what happens when water is released from plumbing or appliances and then floods your home. For example, if your water heater gives out or a pipe bursts, there is a sudden discharge of water. 

https://www.thebalance.com/sewer-backup-overflow-water-damage-4103166

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week for all of your mitigation needs

Ice Storm in West Fort Bend County

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is here to help restore your home or business to pestorm conditions.

With the recent ice storm that engulfed the greater Houston area:along with many others, busted pipes, collapsed ceilings and suspicious growth have been the talk of the town. Thankfully SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is equipped with the right tools to help remediate your situation as needed.

Bursting pipes was the MOST common call we have received

During the freeze, one of the most common calls we received was pipes bursting in your West Fort Bend County home. Depending on where the pipe busted can cause even more damage to your home or business. Making sure your pipes are wrapped correctly BEFORE an ice storm will not only make your life easier, it will also save you money. Click the link to find out how to properly wrap your pipes! https://homeownerfaqs.com/how-to-prevent-frozen-pipes/#:~:text=Simply%20take%20some%20old%20rags,duct%20tape%20around%20the%20towel.

Is Mold Growing from an unseen Busted Pipe in your Attic?

Having a busted pipe in your attic doesn't always mean it will be visible. A pipe can bust and slowly be leaking into the insulation causing mold to grow overtime. Many customers have called with this type of predicament from the ice storm. The reasoning for the call was from the "smell of mold" in the air. Mold is not only a remediation issue but can cause health effects. Our highly trained technicians are trained to remediate the mold in your home/business.

Many West Fort Bend County homes and businesses were affected during the 2021 ice storm. If you or someone you know needs remediation call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today to help restore your home to prestorm conditions.

First Steps To Take If An Appliance Is Leaking

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Have you ever come home to water pooling on your floor under your sink or by your refrigerator? You may have panicked. Immediate steps to take after a water leak aren’t really common knowledge, so it’s important to educate yourself beforehand so you know what to do if an appliance leaks on you! 

1. After you’ve discovered a water leak, shut off the water to that appliance.

Depending on when you’ve caught the leak, you may be able to avoid the most costly damage. However, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. After identifying a leak, shut off water flow to that appliance so that you can find its source.

2. Unplug nearby electronics.

Any electronics near the leak should also be unplugged and shut off. If the water from the leak appears excessive, turn off the circuit breaker to your home. Give your local electrician a call as well as the restoration professionals to assess the damage and how to proceed. Your safety is paramount.

3. Note where the water appears to be coming from.

Appliance water leaks often can be categorized into three common problems: a drain line leak, a supply line leak, or a burst pipe. A drain line leak stems from a leaky drain that isn’t properly working. This may be fast or slow and can result in bacteria in the line. On the other hand, a supply line leak stems from leaks in your water supply piping that brings water to your appliance.

4. Take pictures for insurance claims. 

Especially if extensive damage has occurred, take pictures of the leak and the subsequent water damage to file an insurance claim with. It’s important that you do this before cleaning up any of the mess so that you have accurate documentation of the leak.

5. Call the professionals. 

While there are ways you can attempt to identify the leak type and resolve it yourself, it’s always a smart investment to call the local plumbing professionals to assess the leak and fix it. If there is damage that needs to be cleaned up, you’ll probably need to contact your local restoration company, too.

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of an appliance water leak in your home, give SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County a call at (281) 342-5326. We’re available 24/7 and have seasoned technicians trained and equipped to handle water damage, fire damage, storm damage, mold, and other disasters.

Why Trust SERVPRO?

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Texas experiences more natural disasters than any other state in the U.S., racking up a heart-breaking $14 billion a year in property damage on average. However, those numbers would be much higher if not for the efforts of local disaster recovery teams. 

Whether it be a hurricane, tornado, fire, or otherwise, when disaster strikes in the West Fort Bend County area, SERVPRO is the go-to contractor for commercial disaster recovery services. Their disaster recovery team consists of the best of the best in the restoration industry. All their contractors have the hands-on experience and training to minimize loss and ensure the fastest restoration possible. 

Why Trust SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Teams

 #1:  Client-Focused Professionals

From the initial phone call to the completion of a project, SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County adheres to strict company policies regarding client relations. These policies center on treating all clients with respect and noting client needs to ensure that jobs are executed in a way that reassures those involved. 

This personalized approach comes from an overall commitment to serving clients rather than simply earning business. SERVPRO team members truly care about the Hurst community because they live here too, and if there's any time community-minded workers matter, it's after a natural disaster.

#2: Extensive Experience

With over 20 years in the business, SERVPRO’s disaster recovery team has the experience to handle the aftermath of any natural disaster. 

Their professionals undergo continual training to stay current on the latest restoration techniques and are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICR). All their large commercial disaster restoration projects are overseen by a veteran commercial operations manager to ensure seamless communication and superior results. 

#3: Adaptable Teams and Technology

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County can handle disasters of all sizes and types. While they are a local company, they are also a large national franchise. That gives them the unique combination of local knowledge and commitment coupled with the equipment and resources of a massive corporation. 

They offer comprehensive disaster recovery services, with the tools and expertise to offer everything from water removal and mold remediation to smoke damage restoration. That adaptability prevents the need to hire multiple contractors for one project, decreasing the chances of a problem arising. 

#4: A Reputation for Excellence

SERVPRO’s 20 years in operation has awarded them more than just extensive experience in the disaster recovery field. It has also graced them with a long list of satisfied clients. They have a local reputation for solid and effective work, personalized services, impeccable attention to detail, honesty, and transparency.

Their reputation spreads beyond just word-of-mouth referrals, too. They have an A+ rating with the BBB and a five-star rating on Yelp, Google, HomeAdvisor, and Facebook. That’s on top of the many glowing customer testimonials on their website.

About SERVPRO

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is a local industry leader in disaster recovery, serving businesses, hotels, property managers, municipalities, the military, and more. Their recovery team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, including holidays. 

For more information on their disaster recovery service in the West Fort Bend County area or to set up a response plan, call today at (281) 342-5326 for a fast, free quote.

Why SERVPRO Is The Number 1 Choice For Restoration in West Fort Bend County

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Disasters come in many forms. In Texas, homeowners and businesses regularly experience water damage from floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, and other powerful storms. And fires occur nearly every seven minutes somewhere in the state. 

Building restoration companies like SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County, Texas can help building owners quickly repair damage and clean up messes caused by disasters. SERVPRO is the leading building restoration service for West Fort Bend County, TX, with a staff of highly trained restoration specialists ready to respond to any fire or water emergency 24 hours a day. In addition to disaster restoration, SERVPRO offers professional cleaning services to homes and businesses.

Why SERVPRO Is the Best Choice for Water Cleanup

Whether the water comes from a flood, a busted pipe, or a leaky roof, water can cause serious damage to a building – and to the health of the people inside. Within days, unwelcome water and moisture can cause rapid mold growth, destroy floors and furnishings, and create an unhealthy environment.

Although there are many water restoration companies, few can match SERVPRO’s experience and expertise in water removal, flood cleanup, and expertly restoring the building to pre-disaster condition. When responding to residential or commercial water damage, the SERVPRO team will:

• Inspect the property thoroughly to determine the scale of water damage
• Use industrial vacuums and pumps for water removal
• Employ powerful fans and dehumidifiers to dry the property
• Sanitize the building and remove odors with professional cleaning equipment
• Restore and repair areas impacted by water damage 

SERVPRO understands that flooding and water damage can happen at any time, so their emergency service is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week – even on holidays.

Why SERVPRO Is the No. 1 Company for Expert Mold Removal

Mold growth is a common—and serious—problem following a flood or leak. SERVPRO, one of the leading mold remediation companies in West Fort Bend County, TX, has vast experience eliminating harmful mold  before it causes health effects or structural issues. When the SERVPRO team arrives on the scene, they will:

• Identify and remove the water that’s allowing mold growth
• Find any area impacted by mold
• Eliminate mold from all surfaces
• Utilize a powerful air filtration system to suck up mold spores
• Clean and sanitize the mold-impacted surfaces, material, carpets, and furniture
• Repair and restore areas damaged by mold 

Mold is a difficult and persistent problem that needs professional attention to eradicate. SERVPRO’s restoration specialists are highly trained and complete continuing education to stay up to date on the most effective techniques for mold removal and fire and water restoration. 

Why SERVPRO Is the Top Pick for Fire Restoration

SERVPRO differs from other fire restoration companies by embracing a philosophy of restoring, rather than replacing, a building damaged by fire. Their team can arrive immediately after a fire to begin work. SERVPRO's service includes:

• Building inspection to assess the extent of the damage
• Board-up and tarp service to prevent further damage
• Water removal from firefighting efforts
• Elimination of smoke and soot
• Cleaning and sanitizing with industrial scrubbers
• Restoring and repairing the building to pre-fire condition

Why SERVPRO Is the Best Cleaning Service in West Fort Bend County

SERVPRO cleaning specialists are certified to take on any challenge, from sanitizing a home’s carpet and upholstery to air duct cleaning service. The company also has expertise in tackling biohazard spills and COVID-19 sanitation issues. SERVPRO can professionally clean any surface or material—whether in an emergency or a routine deep clean.

When Disaster Strikes Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

With decades of experience across the restoration services that we offer the North Texas area, we know how to help when every minute counts. We have ready trailers and service vehicles prepared to roll out from our SERVPRO facility 24/7 to address the harsh effects of water, fire, storm, and mold losses. We have trained professionals to handle more specific recovery niches like air duct cleaning, biohazard cleaning, abatement, and reconstruction efforts. These talents, aiding in every facet of our customers' work, improve our efficiency and effectiveness in your home or business.

Storm

Storm damage in Texas homes is a common situation that our SERVPRO professionals must address. Texas is susceptible to severe storms from both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Properties in this midsection must remain prepared for inevitable run-ins with hurricanes, tropical storms, tornadoes, damaging winds other harmful conditions. Our ability to handle these situations is partly due to our commitment to the training and growth of our specialists, ensuring that each loss incidents gets technicians that can:

• Extract and dry up floodwater (WRT – Water Restoration Technician)
• Clean contaminated areas where they exist (Biohazard Cleaning)
• Deploy air movers and dehumidifiers for effective drying solutions (ASD – Applied Structural Drying)
• Clean Carpets and other flooring types (CCT – Carpet Cleaning Technician)
• Prevent microbial growth or address present colonization (AMRT – Applied Microbial Remediation Technician)

The other aspect that has allowed our disaster relief team to become so successful in the North Texas area is our commitment to having the top-tier equipment that gets the job done quickly and correctly. We keep storm trucks stocked with a deep inventory of recovery and mitigation tools, including submersible pumps, engine-driven trash pumps, power washers, air movers, and dehumidifiers.

We can offer a full-service approach amid a crisis so that our customers do not have to waste time finding secondary contractors to handle other aspects of their recovery. We have the skilled professionals to perform board-up and tarping services for your residence amid flood penetration. We can also oversee full-scale reconstruction once mitigation completes in your Texas property.

Water

We know how easily water loss incidents can develop, and that's why training our restoration technicians in this niche is a constant and continual process. The science of restoring water damage in West Fort Bend County homes is evolving and consistently changing. So our professionals have to move along with it – putting these new practices and equipment into use to help our customers with the most efficient and practical approach. Our commitment to customer satisfaction and the outcome of your loss incidents goes far beyond our IICRC training.

Our restoration team has access to equipment and machines that far exceed the limitations of conventional recovery tools. The truck-mounted water extractors that our SERVPRO team uses, for example, can handle the removal of thousands of gallons of water every day. Combined with multiple other impressive equipment pieces, this vehicle sets our professionals apart in water damage restoration for the North Texas/HEB area.

We also have the capability of addressing the massive loss of water damage for commercial properties and houses. 33 years of industry experience and a roster that features Commercial Drying Specialists (CDS) and those with WRT and ASD endorsements, no job is too big or too complicated for our field technicians with the right approach, equipment, and attitude.

Fire

Our team is responsible for many structures in this area alone; the possibility of fire damage is a persistent threat. Knowing the best approach to handle these conditions hinges on the severity of the situation and what materials, surfaces, and contents have become affected. Our IICRC-Certified Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) and those with additional training in odor control and upholstery/carpet cleaning have access to equipment that can help our team restore loss incidents quickly.

Much of our efficiency in fire recovery stems from these advanced and cutting-edge machines. Soot removal and cleaning, for example, often fall to a combination of specially-formulated cleaning agents and products with automated surface scrubbers that can eliminate residues on surfaces.

Every minute counts in fire restoration. Our technicians obtain IICRC certifications and train to understand how fire damage in Hurst homes and businesses spreads and the best approach to overcome the damages.

Mold

Before our certified AMRTs can set up containment barriers and begin the often-intricate process of mold remediation in your West Fort Bend County home or business – our professionals must locate the source of the moisture and dampness. These conditions are likely to happen again without adequately identifying how the water damage facilitated mold growth.

Sometimes the humid conditions are enough to generate these hazardous circumstances, as interior humidity above 60% can mold growth on ceilings and other organic materials. The initial approach is to establish isolation zones using our powerful negative air machines in conjunction with physical plastic sheeting. Mold damage in Texas homes can spread quickly and harmfully without these containment barriers.

Suppose our technicians reach the situation in your  residence fast enough. In that case, many of the hosting materials can get repaired using sophisticated equipment like dry ice blasting machines and soda-blasting equipment. These approaches can remove mold debris without harming the surface and substrate.

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County Is Ready For Disaster

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

When a disaster occurs in West Fort Bend County catastrophic loss often occurs. However, employing a restoration company that can offer a massive loss response can be useful for insurance agents and business owners.

1. Equipped With the Right Tools

When a major disaster strikes, the aftermath can be devastating. Restoration experts will likely be overwhelmed with requests. Other smaller, local restoration companies may not be equipped to handle all types of disasters, and these companies may not have access to specialized tools. A restoration company with a broad reach can bring the necessary tools from various locations to assist in the cleanup and restoration process.

2. Experience to Handle Catastrophes

Whether a catastrophic loss occurs due to flooding, storm or fire damage, it's essential for business owners and insurance agents alike to know experienced professionals restoring commercial properties can help. One person alone may not have the experience to respond to a major disaster. However, when numerous people assist in responding to a disaster, the combined expertise makes the loss response team manage many aspects of commercial property damage.

3. Timely Reactions

When widespread damage occurs to an area, a local restoration company may not assess shortly after the disaster. Unfortunately, a slow response can cause a property to acquire more issues, such as mold growth, structural damage, etc. With a massive loss response, however, professionals can quickly assess a property, and after a thorough assessment, experts can assist in preventing additional damage and can begin restoration.

A massive loss response can make managing the effects of a catastrophic loss easier. An enormous loss response will allow various professionals from different areas to assess the damage. Experts will have the combined experience to handle multiple significant problems. Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 821-342-5326.

SERVPRO Will Be There When You Call

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Have you ever come home from work to water overflowing from a kitchen sink leak or woken up to a crash of a tree into your garage during a late-night storm? No matter the disaster, damage, or hour, SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County trained disaster restoration professionals are equipped and ready to come to the rescue. 

Disasters never crop up on a nicely scheduled timeline. In fact, they often happen when they’re least expected and at odd hours. A tornado or a flash flood doesn’t wait for a convenient time to inflict damage on your property...it just shows up, sometimes unannounced. However, you don’t have to deal with disasters and the damage they leave in their wake alone. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County has a team just a call away to fight an emergency restoration battle just for you. Whether you’re dealing with flooding, water damage, fire, mold, or smoke, SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is available to you 24/7 with the technicians and state-of-the-art technology able to return your property back to its original state.

While disaster restoration jobs may take time, our emergency response doesn’t make you wait. We will be with you at a moment’s notice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and that includes holidays! You can expect an immediate response time from us, day or night, and we pride ourselves on our ability to assist you in your times of need. 

Immediate response to disaster scenarios enables us to minimize the damage that occurs and keep your restoration and repair costs low as a result. In particular, water can be very invasive, and precious minutes can accumulate higher costs and more extensive damage if it’s not addressed from the get-go. 

We are staffed and equipped to respond to emergencies on both small and large scales and at both residential and commercial properties. Don’t hesitate to call us if you even think you have an inkling of an emergency on your hands, and our disaster restoration team will be on their way to you before you know it. As they say, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Contact SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at (281) 342-5326 at any time. We’ll be on our way in moments.

Avoiding Water Damage Claims

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326!

Why water damage claims are common and how to avoid them.

Bursting water pipes

During severely cold winters, pipes can freeze over and burst. That’s more likely to happen if you have certain types of pipes, such as swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines and pipes with minimal insulation that run against exterior walls.

If temperatures tend to freeze in your area, be sure to protect your pipes. Insulate both hot and cold-water pipes using heat tape or pipe sleeves available in your home improvement store. If you have water supply lines in your garage, keep the garage door closed as often as possible. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate. If you plan to spend some time away from your home, leave the heat on and set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees. You can’t control the weather, but you can put up a good fight to save your pipes.

https://www.hippo.com/blog/top-5-reasons-water-damage-house

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is here for all of your restoration needs.

Winter Fire Hazards

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326.

With the changing of the seasons comes cooler weather, and for most of us, it is a welcome change. Who doesn’t love snuggling up before a warm fire at this time of year? We’ve pulled out the sweaters and fluffy blankets to stay toasty, and most of us will employ a space heater or two before spring comes around again.

In your place of business, you will be taking those extra steps to make sure your staff is comfortable during the colder months, as well. Let’s make sure they stay fire safe! Here are some winter fire hazards to be aware of:

• Most businesses won’t be using a fireplace to warm their interiors, but those who work out of doors may build fires on the job site to keep hands and toes functional. Make sure your crew is careful to use metal receptacles for those bonfires and that they place them far away from flammable materials such as wood and linens. If a wind comes up, things could get dangerous fast.
• In your offices, the use of space heaters will be helpful. Inspect every unit used to make sure that cords and plugs are in good working condition, and enforce a policy that ensures they are never left running when the room is unoccupied or when the workday is over. Designate someone to oversee this; they should be the person who is normally last out the door. As the owner, it may very well be you.
• Employ a landscape company to remove leaves and dead vegetation from your property. In the event of a fire in your building, space that is cleared from the foundation and exterior walls will help firefighters to gain access as well as prevent a fire from spreading further.
• When repairing or renovating your offices or outbuildings, use fire-resistant materials whenever possible. Flooring, furniture, and paint can all be produced or treated after purchase to make them more fire safe.

The team here at SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is always available to help you keep your business fire safe. In the event of damages sustained from fire or water, we have the experience and know how to complete a cleanup project quickly and efficiently, getting you back to work as soon as possible.

Windstorms Are No Joke!

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326!

If a Windstorm Occurs

Windstorms are no joke so follow these simple but effective rules to keep you and your loved ones safe. 

When you’re indoors

• Bring all family members together into a safe location such as a basement and take cover under a heavy piece of furniture. If your home does not have a basement, take cover in the bathroom.
• Do not stand near doors or windows.
• Do not use the elevator if you live in a Highrise.
• Do not remain in a mobile home because it can overturn in the wind.

When you’re outdoors

• Take cover in a secure building with a sturdy roof that can withstand the force of wind and weight of snow.
• If you are in an open area and no shelter is available, take cover under a highway overpass, in a ditch or a hollow in the ground. Lay face down on the ground and protect your head with your hands.

Commercial And Residential Differences

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

As we move into the colder, wetter months, we all have to consider the possible damages that our structures can sustain during this time of year. Summer’s storms are past, and now from leaky roofs and moldy siding to deep ruts in the driveway or potholes in the parking lot, the fall and winter months will bring their own set of concerns to both home and business owners. Weather won’t be as violent, but rains can last a lot longer, and then will come sleet, ice, and snow.

For the homeowner, some of the exterior concerns due to weather will be:

• Eroded landscaping
• Rutted driveways, especially those that are graded either up or downhill
• Moldy siding, window sills, door-jambs, window panes, and roofing
• Rotting wooden fencing and decking
• Leaking roof
• Puddles and pooling

For the business owner, some of the exterior trouble spots can be:

• Potholes and eroded surfaces in public parking areas
• Eroded walkways or damaged, buckling sidewalks and public walkways
• Leaking roofs
• Damaged materials and machinery that have not been stored properly

When it comes to the interior spaces, businesses have to keep an eye on employee bathrooms and kitchen/break areas to make sure that leaks are handled immediately and that spills are cleaned up right away. During bad weather, customers and vendors will track water and debris into your building, and both for safety and aesthetics, it will be a good idea to keep up with this type of accumulation to prevent water damage. Have an umbrella stand ready for everyone who comes through the door!

Homeowners also need to keep up with spills, leaks, and traffic, but it will obviously not be such a large job. In a home, water damage is more likely to come from a water heater or dishwasher that is malfunctioning, or a washer that has developed an issue.

One thing both types of structures have to be concerned about is mold, however - it is never a good thing to realize that a colony has taken hold in either your home or your business.

Commercial Restoration Project

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

As a business owner, you already have a lot on your plate on any given day. You need to know who to call when something goes wrong or your business is damaged. Whether the damage your business is experiencing is from water, fire, or other weather-related issues, you need a company with the expertise and availability to assist you quickly after a disaster. 

Here are some things to look for when seeking a Commercial Restoration Company.

• Efficiency.

Lost time is lost money. When looking for a company to help you restore your business, you need a team that understands how important and necessary it is to get your business back up and running as quickly as possible.

• Availability.

When in the midst of a disaster, you need to be able to pick up the phone and have immediate assistance from a team of highly trained professionals. It is important to pick a company that is available 24/7 for emergencies and near your business. 

• Communication. 

In times of stress, you need people who can talk you through it and communicate a plan, not add to it. When seeking Commercial Restoration, make sure you find someone that is ready to communicate a plan, a time frame, and peace of mind. 

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is ready to be that company for you. We have experience in damage restoration and have covered commercial loss for many clients. Here are examples of restoration projects we’ve handled:

• Flood Damage
• Fire Damage
• Inclement Weather Damage
• Damage from Equipment Failure
• Damage from Vandalism
• Damage from Accidents 
• Damage due to Aging of Property

Minimizing Mold Spores To Prevent Mold!

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326!

Minimizing Mold Spores to Prevent Mold

Mold spores are everywhere in the air outside. They float through buildings all the time and there is no practical way to remove all mold spores indoors.

However if the concentration of mold spores inside is significantly higher than outside then it can start to cause health effects. A higher amount of mold spores also increases the potential for mold problems to start.

Sunlight to Prevent Mold

Mold loves dark spaces indoors to grow in. Allowing sunlight in will reduce the chances of mold growing so open the curtains in rooms during the day to let natural light in.

Warmth and Preventing Mold

Mold generally does not grow in cold environments. Warm, humid conditions are ideal for mold growth. Most molds need temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) or more to grow.

Air conditioners to regulate the temperature of your house can help prevent mold growth.

Preventing Condensation Can Prevent Mold!

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today for your restoration needs! 281-342-5326

Prevent Mold by Preventing Condensation

Condensation is another frequent cause of moisture. Condensation forms on cold surfaces when water vapor in the air cools and becomes liquid. Often you'll see condensation on metal pipes, concrete walls, water tanks and windows.

One way to reduce condensation is to keep the temperature warmer in rooms. For example, by installing insulation. You can also insulate the surfaces themselves such as putting coverings over metal pipes. You'll also have less condensation occurring if you keep the humidity in your home low.

Prevent Mold by Reducing Humidity

Many species of mold can begin to grow from humidity alone if the humidity stays high for long enough. In fact the humidity only needs to be higher than 55% before some molds can begin to grow.

The best way to keep humidity low in your home is through ventilation. Open the windows during the day, especially when it's hot since this is when humidity is usually the lowest outside. Close your windows when it's raining outside though.

It's especially important to ventilate the rooms where steam and moisture builds up, like the kitchen and bathroom. Exhaust fans help to reduce the humidity when doing things like cooking or washing dishes.

Air conditioners can also reduce household humidity, as can using dehumidifiers in your home.

Get YOUR Home Ready!

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326!

Getting your home ready for the colder temperatures and stormy weather conditions of fall is smart, whether you are a homeowner, a business owner, or both. Weather may be unpredictable during the fall here in Texas, but you won’t have to worry about it if you prepare now. Here at SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County, we have some preparation projects for you to consider:

• Remove dead leaves and debris from your gutters and drainpipes. This will prevent clogging during wetter weather. Drain all outdoor faucets ahead of freezing weather now, as well. 
• While late summer is not the time to heavily prune trees and bushes, it is a good time to remove any branches that are dead or look like they could prove dangerous during a fall storm. If you have a tree that you think may be dead or dying, contact an arborist to come and take a look at it. If it is actually dead and near your house, you will want to have it removed before anything happens during a fall storm. 
• Examine all your windows and doors for cracks. If you find any, have them sealed now so that you can stay warm and save energy this fall and winter. You’ll be saving both time and money here!
• A roof inspection ahead of colder weather will tell you if your roofing needs any attention before fall storms. Loose shingles can be replaced more easily when it’s warm and dry outside. If you have siding on your home, look it over well for any loose sections; fall storms bring wind that can create problems here. 
• Make sure your entrance walkways are in good shape with no buckling or crumbling. When the surrounding ground is wet it can compromise cement, causing it to crack and split, and that’s an accident just waiting to happen.

Safety Tips For A Storm Damaged Business!

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

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During storm season here in Texas, your business may experience some damage from flooding. Here are some tips you can follow to manage flood damage in your business:

Safety First!

• Do not enter the building until a professional has cleared it if you believe that it has been structurally damaged or if flood risk remains.
• Do not go anywhere near downed power lines or any standing water or metal objects near these downed wires. Stay away from damaged trees, and do not wade into floodwaters.
• Avoid using open flames, especially indoors. Keep a fire extinguisher handy.
• Once the worst has passed, assess any and all damage that the building has received. Inspect every part of the property for possible destruction, including machinery, making sure to avoid standing water or using electricity. 
• Do not climb onto your roof unless the building has been deemed structurally sound, and practice precaution when climbing and working on ladders.
• If using a chainsaw to cut fallen or damaged trees or branches, take precautions to ensure they do not cause any more damage when they fall.
• Remove any wet material, such as rugs or carpets, and properly dry them out to prevent mold from establishing itself. Dry your premises by opening windows and doors; it can be helpful to have fans running if it can be done safely. 
• You are at risk for mold within the first 24-48 hours following a flood, so it is vital to remove the water as soon as possible and start remediation. Flooding poses a risk to drywall, support beams, and foundations, as well, and floodwater can also contain dangerous contaminants and sewage so it must be avoided.
• Keep track of everything that was destroyed or damaged in the storm by documenting it through photos or videos along with putting together a list of broken items. You will need this list for insurance purposes.

Should You Get A Roof Replacement?

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326!

When it comes to knowing how often you should replace your roof, there really isn’t any hard and fast rule. You have to keep an eye on its condition to be able to tell if you need to start thinking about it. If your roof is showing signs of damage, that could lead to major water or storm damage to the rest of your home. Our team wanted to share a few potential issues your roof may develop; any one of these may mean it’s time to replace your roof. 

Age

An asphalt shingle roof should last between 20 and 30 years, so if you have a 40-year-old roof, just keep in mind that you will probably need to replace it entirely in the next 1-5 years.

Shingles

Shingles can curl in two ways: by “cupping,” which happens when the edges of the shingles turn upward; and “clawing,” which is when the edges stay flat and the middle starts to come up. Both are signs of weathering and indicate that potential leaks may possibly be developing, depending on the extent. Every homeowner finds themselves replacing a missing shingle, but it can be just about impossible to get a new shingle to match the color of an old one. Granule colors have changed pretty significantly over the years, and shingle colors often change with years of weathering. If your roof is starting to look like a patchwork quilt, you may want to consider replacing it soon. 

Damage

Cracked shingles are typically caused by wind damage, and if the damage is extensive and not isolated to just one area, you should start thinking about replacing your roof within the next few years. 

Algae Or Moss

This is not a big deal when it shows up on your roof, but it doesn’t give your home or business a great look. You don’t want to take matters into your own hands by power washing or scraping it away since that will often chip off all the protective granules and essentially render your shingles useless. You can use a wash that's one part bleach and one part water to remove algae or moss, and if you do decide to replace your roof, consider tiles that are algae-resistant.

Light

This issue is pretty obvious: if light can get in through your roof, so can rain. If you see any water stains during the next rainfalls, and if they spread or expand, you have an active leak, and it is time to contact SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County immediately to help remediate the water damage and potential mold growth.

Sagging

A sagging roof is typically an indication of a structural issue and demands immediate attention. There could be a problem with the decking in the attic or with the supports in the foundation, which is even worse. You're not necessarily in imminent danger, but this is the kind of thing that's a lot easier to take care of when it's small and localized, so call your roofing professionals right away for this roofing issue. 

When it comes to replacing your roof, there is no hard and fast rule. If you are experiencing water damage, it is probably time. Remember that SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is here to help if you are dealing with water damage, fire damage, or a mold infestation. We are committed to getting your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned!

Office Fire Safety Precautions!

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

In the event that a fire ever occurs in your office, it’s important to have a few fire safety precautions in place to keep your employees and commercial building prepared for dealing with one. While having a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors goes without saying, do your employees know what to do if the alarm sounds or they have to use the extinguisher?

Here are a few fire safety precautions that you should ensure are in place:

• Make sure your employees know how to use a fire extinguisher. Every 6 months or so, hold a training session where your employees learn how to use a fire extinguisher if they don’t already know how to use one. Something as simple as this could be the difference between an accidental office fire from a microwave or a lighter being extinguished or burning up everything in sight.

• Regularly change your smoke detectors’ batteries and ensure one is installed in every room. As a general rule of thumb, test your smoke detectors once a month and replace their batteries twice a year. By ensuring that your smoke detectors do their job and have the battery juice to sound, you can prevent office fires whenever smoke occurs first.

• Share your office’s evacuation plan. Depending on the size of your office, you need to have one or multiple evacuation plans to adhere to the building’s fire code. Make sure to take into account any legal requirements for fire evacuation plans before you post them around the building and share them. 

• Do a few fire drills. Sharing your office’s evacuation plan isn’t enough. Hold a couple fire drills and run your employees through the proper evacuation routes so they know where to go if the building catches on fire. Rehearsing an evacuation plan makes it that much easier to take action in the event that a fire actually occurs.

With all of these fire safety precautions in place, we hope that you’ll never have to manage the aftermath of an office fire. However, If you ever end up dealing with fire damage, water damage, mold, or other natural disaster damage, give SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County a call at (281) 342-5326. Our team of professionals are trained and equipped to help you manage restoration and cleaning.

Tips For Preventing Water Damage At Your Business!

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326

Tips for preventing water damage at your business

Inspect gutters and drainage

Fallen leaves and other debris in gutters and downspouts can lead to water damage to the exterior and interior walls of a building. Regularly inspect your business’s gutters, downspouts, and drainage system, and remove any debris or buildup. Have gutters professionally cleaned on a regular basis to ensure water is draining properly and away from the building.

Clear your Roof

Snow and ice accumulation on your business’s roof can result in weakened roofing materials and create “ice dams,” which prevent melted ice and snow from properly draining. Regularly remove snow and ice from your business’s roof to prevent structural damage. Know your roof’s load-bearing capacity, and periodically check to ensure that snow and ice aren’t accumulating beyond its weight limits.

We are here to help!

How To Prevent Water Damage In Office!

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County for your Restoration needs!

How To Prevent Water Damage In Office

Know the location of the main valve
The main valve is the point of control where all incoming flow passes through. Conventionally, it is located in the lower-most part of the building where your supply pipe branches off the main pipe. You need to find this valve and label it, clearly pointing out its location and how to shut or open it. Additionally, you need to teach your employees how to operate all the valves, and not just the main valve. Most offices close for the night after business hours. During this time, the main valve should be shut. Make it a routine that the last person to leave the building should ensure that the valve has been closed. This action will save you thousands of dollars in the long run.

NO BLEACH!

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

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A common misconception about mold is that you can use bleach to treat it. The main uses for bleach are for disinfecting and changing the color of something, so stick to those uses next time you grab a bottle of Clorox from the grocery store. The EPA and OSHA has taken a strong stance against using bleach to treat mold, and here is why:

• Bleach does not work on porous surfaces, but mold loves porous areas. Bleach is made up of 90% water, so once the chlorine quickly evaporates, you are left with a ton of moisture that will actually help mold continue to grow. Even though it may look like bleach has killed the mold infecting your home, it is only the top layer that has been killed, and the mold’s roots within the walls will easily come back stronger than ever.
• Bleach is toxic. This one is a no brainer, but for some reason, people want to dump the chemical all over their house at the first sight of mold. Children and pets can easily get into the bleach you may have used to treat mold which could make them quite sick; even the fumes can create health problems! There are so many alternative solutions to treat mold with, there is no reason to put your family or employees at risk by using bleach.
• Bleach can weaken the surfaces you put it on. When bleach is put on a surface such as wood, it can begin to eat away at the fibers. Even a small change to an important structural piece of your home could be disastrous. Imagine having to rebuild parts of your home just because you treated some wooden beams with bleach!

When it comes to mold, it is better to leave the remediation to the professionals. Our team of experts can quickly handle any problem and make sure that your home or office is safe for everyone. We use specially formulated solutions that are sure to kill mold and keep it from returning - without causing toxic fumes. If you are in need of mold remediation, call us today at 281-342-5326.

What Is Up With Black Mold?

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Have questions? Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today!

If you are a fan of home improvement shows, you have almost certainly heard of “toxic black mold,” and with the insane media headlines, who wouldn’t be scared of it? The truth is, there is no such thing as “toxic black mold.” While there is such a thing toxigenic molds (they produce mycotoxins), there is no mold that is actually toxic itself.

Mold is everywhere in our environment, both inside and out, and most folks live their life without ever being troubled by it. While some people do have mold allergies that will make it more difficult for them to handle mold, there are very few reports of mold that involve the hemorrhaging, memory loss, and other extreme effects that you hear about on TV.

Stachybotrys chartarum is what is most closely associated with the term “toxic mold.” It has a greenish black appearance, and while it is not one of the most common molds found indoors, it is not exceptionally rare. As with other molds, Stachybotrys chartarum grows best in a warm humid space, so be sure to take care of any water damage you have quickly, before mold can begin to grow.

No matter what type of mold you suspect in your home or office, you should seek immediate treatment for it. Our experts can determine the type of mold, treat it, and make sure your building has a safe environment for everyone inside. Call SERVPRO® of West Fort Bend County if you have any suspicions of mold in your home or office. 281-342-5326

Fire? We've Got You!

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today @ 281-342-5326!

Fires are absolutely terrifying, even the idea of a home fire sends a shiver down my spine. They are life altering events, that will most likely be talked about for a lifetime. We know they’re scary, which is why we are here to help you every step of the way. Our teams are caring and compassionate and know just how to handle the situation at hand. We focus on restoring, not replacing, so any and all of your belongings that can be restored will be, and you can rest assured that they will be taken care of as though they are our own. We have special equipment, tools, and cleaning supplies to make sure that your life gets turned right side up, and you’re back on your way.

Give us a call today at 281-342-5326!

Prevent House Fires

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County! 281-342-5326

Prevent House Fires

Check the dryer.

If you have a gas-powered clothes dryer, have it inspected once a year to make sure all connections are secure. No matter what type of dryer you have, always clean out the lint filter after a load is finished. Regularly check behind and around the dryer for pockets of lint or items of laundry that have fallen under or behind. Use a shop vacuum or hire a professional to thoroughly remove all lint and debris from the lint trap area and all external dryer vents at least once a year. 

Maintain electrical cords.

Regularly check the condition of electrical cords and watch out for frayed wires. Repair or replace damaged cords immediately. Electrical cords can produce heat, so don’t trap them under a rug or between furniture and the wall. When you’re not using them, unplug any appliances that feel warm to the touch when connected to power, including phone chargers. 

Use extension cords sparingly as a temporary fix, as they can deteriorate quickly with continuous use. Make sure any extension cords you use are rated for the wattage of the device they’re powering.

When it comes to power strips and surge protectors, don’t try to cut corners. Trusted name brands are best

Carbon Monoxide Alarms

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326!

Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Install carbon monoxide alarms to alert your family to this invisible, odorless, colorless gas before it’s too late. Carbon monoxide is created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil, and methane) burn incompletely. Even a small amount of carbon monoxide can poison or kill a person if it is breathed in over a long period of time – such as overnight while sleeping.

• Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas.
• If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door.
• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. 

Home Fire Sprinkler Systems

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-53266

Home Fire Sprinkler Systems

Consider installing an automatic fire sprinkler system in your home. Smoke alarms are designed to detect, not control, a fire. Home fire sprinklers complement the alarms' work, providing a way to fight flames immediately.

• Before the fire department can reach your home, sprinklers can prevent a fire from spreading and even extinguish a fire.
• A sprinkler system can decrease the chance that deadly smoke and gases will reach your family.
• In addition, sprinkler systems can put out fire when you are away from home, and if they are connected to an alarm system, may notify the fire department in your absence.

 To ensure sprinkler system reliability, be sure to use a qualified installer who adheres to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes and standards and local fire safety regulations

Why Was My Water Damage Claim Denied?

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

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Understanding Why a Water Damage Claim is Denied and What You Can Do About It

First, if you are being denied any claim, make sure that you ask for a full explanation. You have every right to understand exactly what part of the policy wording excludes what you are asking for compensation for and why the claim is being denied.

Understand that there are several people who represent the insurance company during a claim, so you want to know where the decision is coming from. Was it your agent who told you, the insurance adjuster, or a contractor? Each person plays a different role. Don't be afraid to request clarifications to avoid misunderstandings. When a claim is denied, you will normally receive something in writing advising you of the official decision.

If you still do not understand why something isn't covered, and you think there is a chance for a review of your situation, don't be afraid to ask your agent or representative for a review or a second opinion. In a stressful situation like a claim, it is understandable that things may not be expressed clearly on either side. You want to make sure you understand fully.

Biggest Risk?

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County TODAY! 281-342-5326

Know the Biggest Risk in Your Home Insurance's Tornado Coverage

The biggest risk you may face if your home suffers major damage during a severe storm or tornado is being underinsured. With changing costs of construction materials and labor, home insurance reconstruction costs have increased over the years.

Although some policies do include the option for inflation adjustment, this is not sufficient to cover varying reconstruction costs. Take some time to verify the value your home is insured for. Then, be sure to inquire about what happens in a claim if your home is underinsured.

Some policies include guaranteed replacement cost or actual cash value. However, the limit may be capped. Other policies may limit you to the insured value. With so many homeowners underinsured, this is a major problem that may leave you in a situation where even with insurance, you won't have enough to rebuild.

This is one aspect of your insurance you don't want to leave unchecked. Contact your agent or broker to discuss your policy and if necessary have them verify that the current insured value is up to par. Ensure you have all the best insurance endorsements available to guarantee you are fully covered in a major loss.

Flood Control Fixes!

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is #HereToHelp! Call today at 218-342-5326!

Flood control fixes you can make to help manage storm water runoff and prevent flood damage to your home:

1. Slope soil away from your home's foundation. Don’t forget to fill and slop soil under decks and porches.
   
   2. Water from your roof, downspouts, and eavestroughs can find its way to your home if they are clogged, leak, or don't carry water far enough from your home. Clean out eavestroughs and downspouts in the fall and spring. You can also use downspout extensions to carry water far enough away from your foundation as an effective flood control.
   
   3. Set up a downspout to empty into a rain barrel. Using rain barrels for rain water storage reduces the cost of watering shrubs, flowers, and vegetables.
   
   4. Plug holes or cracks in your eavestroughs, downspouts, downspout extensions and seal these with silicon caulk. Even a trickling leak can let plenty of water into your basement to become a mold problem.
   
   5. Look for holes or cracks in your foundation and completely fill these with vinyl concrete patching.

Moldy Business?

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

For mold remediation, call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today! 281-342-5326

If you do have a mold problem, it is likely to cause great concern and anxiety among your employees. If you or the landlord has hired experts, consider having those experts provide you with a written explanation of the steps they are taking, and how the employees are being protected. Post or provide that information to your employees. Work on the building may necessitate relocation of employees; if you are leasing the building, demand that the landlord provides clean space while the work is ongoing and keep track of your relocation costs.

Investigation, repairs, the relocation of employees, and the cleaning of furniture, fixtures, equipment and other property, not only may cost thousands of dollars, but will cause lost productivity. If you are leasing your building, keep the landlord fully advised of the situation, and ask the landlord to give you a timely and prompt action plan. Demand that the landlord reimburses you for your losses. Also give notice to your insurer.

If you own the building, take prompt steps to address the problem, but also notify your insurer and your tenants of your action plan. Be aware, however, that your insurer may not cover your losses and may not defend you from a costly mold lawsuit. Today, more and more insurers are excluding mold and mold-related damages from their commercial insurance coverage. Owners, managers and builders have been surprised to learn that their insurance policies exclude mold claims.

We Are Trained Mold Testers

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326!

Have your home tested by a trained mold tester.

Many people make the mistake of cleaning up the mold without testing. It is important to know the type of mold your dealing with, and how bad the problem is. Most mold testers are engineers so they can give your home a thorough inspection to find all the mold. If it’s a small problem they may recommend cleaning it yourself, and will give you advice on removing it. If it’s large job and a removal service needs to be hired, they will oversee the cleanup and supervise the removal process. When the cleanup is done, they will come back and test again to make sure the removal was properly done. Make sure if you hire a removal company that you don’t pay them until the final testing comes back showing the home is clean.

Winter Preparations!

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County TODAY! 281-342-5326

While the weather is still in the 90s, and we are probably a few months away from our first freeze, it’s important to keep prepared from water damage in your home in case we do happen to get a deep freeze this upcoming winter. Make sure that your pipes are well insulated, especially those ones that are exposed to the air. You can get specialty foam to go around them. Use a sock to cover your outside waterspouts and put a foam cover on that too – it’ll give it extra insulation against the cold weather to prepare freezing and bursting. Make sure your gutters are clear too, to prevent outside water from getting in when it rains this season.

Tips For Water Damage!

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

For your home/business water damage call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today!

When a home or business owner is confronted with a large-scale water damage incident, it is vital to prioritize the safety of families, employees, customers, and other individuals. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is sharing 7 safety tips to help people navigate the aftermath of a water damage emergency. These safety tips are applicable for residential or commercial water damage that is internally sourced from a leaky faucet, a cracked water pipe, or a broken water heater. Water damage resulting from a natural disaster such as a flood, tornado, or hurricane has a set of issues that go beyond the extent of an internally sourced water damage situation.

Tip #1: Stay calm. Do not panic.

Water damage to a home or business is stressful, especially if the water damages expensive furniture, ruins family heirlooms, destroys valuable inventory, or requires the property to be evacuated for a period of days or even weeks. Trained, experienced professionals take care of water damage emergencies every day, and they eliminate a large portion of the stress and anxiety. Skilled restoration experts do a thorough job in a timely fashion, so people do not have to worry.

Tip #2: Identify and eliminate electrical hazards.

A flooded house presents a challenge to the homeowner. Floor covering can be replaced, upholstery can be cleaned, and baseboards can be repainted. Electrocution, however, can be fatal.

The first concern is always personal safety, even before identifying the source of the flooding and shutting off the water. If the flooding is extensive, electrical shock is always a concern. Avoid stepping in the water until sources of potential electrical shock have been identified and resolved. Appliances and extension cords in the water are particularly dangerous. Be safe. Shut off the power from outside the home or commercial building. A water damage issue could turn into a fire hazard if electrical appliances are exposed to water.

Tip #3: Identify any chemical or sanitation hazards before entering the residence or building.

Strong smells, burning and itching eyes, or skin irritation may be indicators that the water may have come into contact with activated chemicals. Carefully do a smell test. Is the liquid on the floor more than water? Is it contaminated with raw sewage? It is unsanitary to track raw sewage throughout the entire house in the search for the water leak. What may have been a relatively simple clean up could be expanded to include the whole house.

Tip #4: Avoid slipping and falling.

Watch out for slippery surfaces. Wet floors can be exceedingly slippery, so hold on to cabinets or furniture when walking on slick kitchen or bathroom floors. Wear shoes or boots that provide stability and reduce the possibility of slipping and falling. It is better to keep shoes on while walking through the flooded areas to prevent slipping and to protect the feet from injury.

Tip #5: Use a flashlight when walking through areas that are dark or dimly lit.

If the flooding was so extensive that the electricity needed to be turned off, use a flashlight to illuminate the home. Proper lighting improves balance and stability. Groping around in the dark can lead to head and hand injuries. Further safety hazards can be created if furniture is turned over or glass is broken.

Tip #6: Wear rubber gloves and other protective clothing, if possible.

Wearing rubber gloves, protective eyewear, sturdy shoes or boots, and a mask or respirator are advisable if at all possible. If the leak has persisted over an extended period of time, mold, mildew, and bacteria may have had time to grow. Mold exposure can cause health effects. Also, the liquid on the floor and carpet may be contaminated with raw sewage. Chemicals may have mixed with the water and may have become activated, toxifying the air and the water. Any exposure to these contaminants could be hazardous or even deadly.

Tip #7: Avoid lifting heavy items.

Water-logged pillows, cushions, clothing, carpet, and padding are very heavy. Be careful walking across slippery surfaces. Carrying a heavy load or slipping unexpectedly can wrench the back or cause other injuries.

If the situation is severe and the environment is hazardous, the safest course of action may be to shut off the electricity and water, call the water damage specialists, and wait. Each crisis is unique and carries its own set of safety hazards. Immediate response from a water damage specialist is essential because much of the damage is done in the first few hours of the incident. Getting a trained technician with the best equipment on the scene as soon as possible is always a best-case scenario in a worst-case situation.

We Are A Large Loss Response Team!

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call us today at 281-342-5326!

If you manage a building, like a high rise or an apartment complex, then you know that it can be stressful to keep up with the upkeep and maintenance of your building. You may not even have time to think about what happens in case your building gets flooded or has a fire. Do you know what your emergency plan is? One of the first questions you may ask yourself is if the team you’re about to bring on to do your restoration is properly equipped to handle such a large loss. But not to worry, because we here at SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County are! We are what’s called LLRT, or Large Loss Response Team. That means that we have the tools, the staff, and the experience to handle those huge jobs. We are held to a higher standard than your just regular restoration team, meaning that your job will be handle right every time.

Call US to Clean Your Home/Business!

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Is productivity in your office on a downward slide and you can’t figure out why? Maybe your team members are getting sick, and have headaches and allergies that are unexplained? Then it maybe the cleanliness of your workspace. You may have a company come in every evening to take out the trash and vacuum, but do they really get down and dirty? How long has it been since your lobby chairs have been cleaned? What about your cubicle walls?

If you can’t answer these questions, then give us a call today! We can sanitize and make your workspace spic and span again so it can raise productivity and promote a happier, healthier workplace. We can even do it overnight and on the weekends, so we don’t disturb your productivity.

Water Damage Sudden Events

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County for your restoration needs! 281-342-5326

Water Damage from Sudden Events

Property damage caused by water leaking from a broken pipe or appliance (such as a water heater) is generally covered under a property policy if the damage occurs suddenly. For example, suppose that a supply line to a water fountain in your office suddenly ruptures. Leaking water damages the floor near the water fountain. Assuming your property policy includes building coverage, it should cover the cost to replace the damaged floor.

Property policies also cover sudden water leaks from fire protective systems. For example, an employee of yours is positioning a ladder in your office to change a light bulb when he accidentally hits a sprinkler head. Water pours out of the damaged head, damaging office furniture. Your property policy should cover the damage to the furniture.

Note that property policies generally don't cover damage caused by water that backs up from a sewer, drain or sump pump. 

How To Clean Up!

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County to clean and disinfect your home/business! 281-342-5326

How to Clean Up

• Wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles during cleanup of affected area. • Remove and discard items that cannot be washed and disinfected (such as carpeting, carpet padding, rugs, upholstered furniture, foam-rubber items, books, wall coverings, and most paper products). • Remove and discard drywall and insulation that has been contaminated with sewage or flood waters. • Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces (such as flooring, concrete, molding, wood and metal furniture, countertops, appliances, sinks, and other plumbing fixtures) with hot water and laundry or dish detergent and disinfect with a solution of 1 cup of bleach to five gallons of water. • Steam clean all carpeting. • Help the drying process by using fans, air conditioning units, and dehumidifiers. • Have your onsite waste-water system professionally inspected and serviced if you suspect damage. • After completing the cleanup, wash your hands with soap and water. Use water that has been boiled for 1 minute (allow the water to cool before washing your hands). o Or you may use water that has been disinfected for personal hygiene use (solution of whichever teaspoon of household bleach per 1 gallon of water). Let it stand for 30 minutes. If the water is cloudy, use a solution of ¼ teaspoon of household bleach per 1 gallon of water. • Wash all clothes worn during the cleanup in hot water and detergent. These clothes should be washed separately from uncontaminated clothes and linens. • Wash clothes and linens contaminated with flood or sewage water in hot water and detergent. It is recommended that a laundromat be used for washing large quantities of clothes and linens until your onsite waste-water system has been professionally inspected and serviced.

We Are Cleaning EXPERTS!

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at (713)-666-9222

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Mold Can Grow Year-Round!

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

A mold grows in…  everything

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mold is everywhere—it grows year-round and can be found both indoors and outdoors. Mold is a living organism and, as such, it grows and spreads when it has the right conditions—and it likes the damp.

Outdoor molds are commonly found in shady, damp areas and in soil. Indoors, mold can be found where humidity and moisture levels are high, such as in basements, kitchens, bathrooms and on ceilings and wall interiors where water from leaky pipes, roofs or windows can accumulate.

Indoor mold can be ruinous to surfaces (like walls and wall coverings) and to your belongings.

Most mold is not covered by a standard homeowners policy

Mold, like rot and insect infestation, is a home maintenance issue and these are generally not covered by standard homeowners insurance policies. However, in the event that mold growth is the direct result of a covered peril such as a burst pipe, the cost of eliminating the mold may be covered. If you have federal flood insurance, it may cover you for mold and/or mildew damage—but only if it is directly attributable to a flood.

However, since it's unlikely you're covered for mold, it's even more important to keep your home mold-free—and in that effort, a strong offense is definitely your best defense.

The Three Types Of Flood Water

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at (281)-342-5326

The Three Types of Flood Water

• Clean Water: Natural water, such as rain or tap water, that poses no additional health risks.
• Gray Water: Water that may contain additional chemicals, such as discharge from a washing machine.
• Black Water: Sewage or groundwater from nearby sources that may pose extreme health risks.

Even if the water appears clean, it might contain chemicals or bacteria that could be hazardous to your health. Wear waders or rain boots, rubber gloves and any other available protective equipment to avoid unnecessary contact with your skin.

Contact Your Insurance Company

We recommend initiating your flood insurance claim as early as possible to minimize claim delays and to help get repairs completed sooner. This is especially important if your damage is the result of regional flooding, in which case hundreds of other homes could be affected, and your insurance company will quickly become inundated with claims.

What To Do If Your House Is Flooded

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

What To Do if Your House Is Flooded

If your home is flooded, you need to take quick action to minimize the amount of damage to your property. Contact your flood insurance provider immediately to initiate the claims process and to schedule an adjuster to come to your home to assess the damage. Check for hazards, such as live electrical lines or structural damage, before you enter your home, and take photos or videos of all the damage before you remove any water. Keep in mind that flood damage that results from inclement weather isn't covered under a traditional homeowner's policy, so damage won’t be covered be unless you have an additional flood insurance policy.

Services For Every Need

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today! We are #HereToHelp!

SERVPRO® of West Fort Bend County offers a wide range of services to cover all of your needs when it comes to restoration. Check out the list below to see some of the problems we can take care of!

• Water Damage: When it comes to water damage, a quick response it critical to preventing further damage. Our experts use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that your property has been completely dried to IICRC standards.
• Fire Damage: After a fire occurs in your home or office, you will have to deal with smoke and soot damage as well as water damage. Our technicians can handle even the largest fire loss so that you can have peace of mind during this stressful time.
• Mold Remediation: Nobody wants mold inside their house, and for those with allergies, microbial growth can cause serious problems if it is left unchecked. Our team of professionals is specially trained and certified to get rid of mold and make sure it doesn’t come back.
• Biohazard Clean Up: Biohazardous substances such as blood or bile can be extremely dangerous and should always be disposed of properly. We can safely treat any affected areas and dispose of contaminated materials according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local standards.
• Deodorization: From sewage, to mold, to pet stains, nobody likes living or working in a stinky area. We can locate the source of the odor and eliminate it rather than just cover it up.
• Contents Claim & Document Drying: We offer pack out and storage services to keep your belongings safe until reconstruction has been completed. We are also able to restore paper documents through the deposition process.
• Catastrophic Events: Our elite Large Loss Division can handle any size jobs. These teams are strategically located around the U.S. so that we can be on site as quickly as possible after a hurricane, tornado, or other catastrophic event

Blood Spills hmmm...It Depends.

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County can get the job done! (281)-342-5326.

Blood Spills on Carpeted Floors

• Steam Clean: Depending on the nature and size of the spill, it is advisable to perform a steam clean of the carpet. Steam cleaners will clean, remove debris, and sanitize carpeting more completely than conventional washing. Although there is some additional cost to steam cleaning, it is the best way to protect against bloodborne pathogens.
• Change Carpet Tiles: Removable carpet tiles are a great way to protect against exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Carpet tiles are often less expensive than traditional carpet, and if a certain area becomes heavily soiled with blood they can easily be removed and replaced. If your organization is equipped with carpet tiles be sure to dispose of them properly after being saturated with blood or any other potentially infectious bodily fluid.

Yes Mold CAN Sneak Up On You!

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today! (281)-342-5326

Mold grows in…  everything

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mold is everywhere—it grows year-round and can be found both indoors and outdoors. Mold is a living organism and, as such, it grows and spreads when it has the right conditions—and it likes the damp.

Outdoor molds are commonly found in shady, damp areas and in soil. Indoors, mold can be found where humidity and moisture levels are high, such as in basements, kitchens, bathrooms and on ceilings and wall interiors where water from leaky pipes, roofs or windows can accumulate.

Indoor mold can be ruinous to surfaces (like walls and wall coverings) and to your belongings.

We are GREEN!

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County Today! (281)-342-5326.

Did you know that we are green? Not just our colors either! We are proud to offer special green products that are environmentally friendly, like our SERVPROXIDE! It’s one of our favorite products here at SERVPRO, and we want to tell you why!

It’s a disinfectant that’s got some serious powers. It can kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and mold leaving your home our business clean and sanitized. Because it’s such a good product, it helps us get you back into your home or business faster.

It’s EPA registered! I’m sure the question of “If it’s such a great product and can kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and mold how safe is it?” Well, SERVPROXIDE carries the lowest rating the EPA offers, making it completely safe for everyday use, and it’s safe for the environment, meaning that it’s 100% biodegradable.

We can Handle Your Water Loss

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Water losses can be very scary! Sometimes you don’t know how or even why there is a giant puddle on your living room floor or the frustration of your dishwasher not working correctly – when it should be. It’s also stressful to even think about how you could even get that much water out of your home where do you even start? That’s where we at SERVPRO of West Fort Bend Coutny come into play.

We are a team of highly trained and specialized in water extraction on drying. We use specialized equipment to make sure that every drop of water is out of your home like air movers and extractors. We also make sure to use dehumidifiers to make sure your air is returned to the perfect level so no mold growth can happen.

If you find yourself with a water loss in your home or business, give us a call today at 281-342-5326

Washing Machine Damage

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that some of the most common ways for water damage in your home is caused by washing machines? And there are so many different ways that your washing machine can cause a water loss like a supply line bursting, clogging, using the wrong detergent and even overloading the washer. The supply hose is the most common way for your washing machine to fail.

It’s wise to do routine inspections of your supply hose. Keep an eye out for cracks, blisters or a loose connection. Replace any hose that looks worn and tighten them if they’re loose. You should also replace your hose every five years even if you can’t see any problems – just to be on the safe side. When you’re shopping for a new hose try to get one that’s braided steel as it’ll hold up to more wear and tear over time. If you’re away from your home for any extended period of time, shut off the water supply line valve to make sure nothing can happen while you’re away from home

After A Storm

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

While you wait for the insurance company, take some photos or even video so you have a record of what happened. And if you do need to take immediate action to prevent further damage, keep all receipts and record any money you spend. These supporting documents can be very important when the insurance company reviews your claim.

Keep Up-To-Date on Your Coverage

As weather patterns change, so does the risk to your home. You could find yourself subject to extensive damage due to stronger storms or fluctuating temperatures. Find out what coverage is available, and if you anticipate needing more than your current policy provides, call your insurance agent and make the necessary changes.

With a few policy adjustments and a good plan for winter home maintenance, you should be able to keep your home safe from storm damage or repair it quickly when it occurs.

"Resulting Damage"

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County TODAY at 281-342-5326

Broken pipe and Water damage example

Another example is if something that happened gradually, like a broken pipe, or a broken water tank, or a washing machine breaks due to (unexpected) wear and tear. The actual pipe itself, or washing machine will not be covered. However, the resulting damage from the sudden breakage may be.

What does the term “Resulting Damage” mean in Insurance?

The resulting damage is a different than the initial damage. For example, if water damage resulting from a broken pipe, or appliance is listed in your wording as covered, then you may be compensated for a portion of the damages caused even though the deteriorated pipe replacement or a new appliance would not be covered. This is an example the cause of the damage not being covered, but the resulting damage being covered

Remember to stay LOW!

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bed County at 281-342-5326 today!

Stay Low

If you can see smoke in the house, stay low to the ground as you make your way to the exit. In a fire, smoke and poisonous air hurt more people than the actual flames do. You'll breathe less smoke if you stay close to the ground.

Smoke naturally rises, so if there is smoke while you're using your escape route, staying low means you can crawl under most of it. You can drop to the floor and crawl on your hands and knees below the smoke.

Know How to Get Out of the House

Getting out through a door that leads outside should be your first choice as an escape route. But also ask your parents about windows and if they would be possible ways to get out. Even windows on a higher floor could be safe escape routes if you had help, like from a firefighter or another adult.

Ask your parents to teach you how to unlock the windows, open them, and remove the screen, if needed. Make sure you only do this in an emergency! Lots of kids are injured because they fall out of windows.

Sometimes, families even have collapsible rescue ladders that can be used to escape from upper floors of a house. If you have one, ask your mom or dad to show you how it works.

Besides planning your escape routes, you'll also want to know where family members will meet outside. This is helpful because then everyone shows up in one place and you'll know that everyone is safe. You might choose the front porch of a neighbor's house or some other nearby spot.

Are you Covered for Weather AND Water Damage?

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Does your home insurance cover weather and water damage?

Winter storms, spring thaws, cold snaps, and other weather variations can severely damage your home. Luckily, this damage is often covered by your home insurance.

Consider that in 2018, winter storms caused an estimated 2 billion dollars in insured losses according to Impact Forecasting, a company that analyzes catastrophe risks. As weather patterns change, bringing harsh conditions with them, claims for weather-related damage are likely to increase.

Insurance for Weather Damage

When wild weather hits your home, you may be able to make a claim. Your ability to do so depends on the type of policy you have and the perils it covers or excludes. But in the case of covered damage, compensation from your insurance company will help you cover your losses, so you can repair your home and move on.

Get Your Hurricane Season ERP!

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane season is officially in swing, and so is cooler weather (hopefully? maybe?) and with that cooler weather brings rain and thunderstorms. Are you and your commercial business ready for the rainy weather? If you aren’t, give us a call today and we can set up an appointment with one of our representatives to come out to start an ERP, which is short for Emergency Ready Program. ERPs are free to you and help us establish a plan of action in the event your office is flooded by water. We can identify where vital things are in your building like water shut offs.

Fire and water damage can cause your business to lose a ton of money, and some businesses don’t even reopen after a disaster. Make sure you’re protected and call us today at 281-342-5326!

Replacing Damaged Wood

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County 281-342-5326

All severely warped wood (particularly flooring), rotting wood and wood that has developed mold/mildew problems will need to be replaced. Pry apart damaged boards and thoroughly clean beneath them before replacing them. And if the wood is a structural component of your house, you must be very careful when replacing it so that the structure has the right support during and after the water damage repair project.

Install new, sealed floors

From wet carpets to swollen floorboards, it’s often evident when water has damaged your floor but if you aren’t sure, it’s important to check immediately in case moisture has become trapped underneath. Note that underlayment and padding are particularly susceptible to water damage and must usually be removed. However, this also presents an opportunity to install new, waterproof flooring in the area. Ceramic tile, high-end vinyl and certain engineered wood materials can all help protect floors against future water damage repair.

Prepare For The Storm!

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

If conditions are right for a hurricane in your area, this is how you can prepare:

• Stay tuned to local radio and TV for warnings, safety announcements or instructions.
• Invest in a portable battery-operated or hand-crank radio.
• Turn off all utilities, including propane tanks.
• Cover all of your home’s windows with storm shutters or 5/8” marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Even duct tape – amazing as it is – doesn’t prevent windows from breaking.
• If it’s safe, move outdoor furniture and grills inside. They can be deadly flying debris.
• If emergency officials haven’t directed you to a public shelter, get your family to the basement, a closet, a small room or a hallway away from windows. The more walls between you and the outside, the better.
• Lean a mattress against the wall of the room you're in.
• Don't open your windows. Keep the wind and rain outside.
• Hand out flashlights. The hurricane will probably disrupt electrical service. 

During and After the Hurricane

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today @ 281-342-5326

During a Hurricane

If you are have not evacuated, go to your safe room. If you do not have a safe room, follow these guidelines:

• Stay indoors and away from windows and glass doors.
• Close all interior doors—secure and brace external doors.
• Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm—winds will pick up again.
• Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.
• Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.  

After a Hurricane

Recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical well-being.

• Let your friends and family know that you are safe.
• Do not return home unless authorized to avoid electrical hazards and other dangers.
• Do NOT drink tap water unless authorized to do so.
• Check the temperature in your fridge or freezer. Anything that has remained at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or colder is safe to eat. Otherwise, throw it out to be safe.
• Also, throw away ANY food that has come in contact with flood waters which may carry waterborne diseases, chemicals, etc. Better safe than sorry.
• Document any damage with photos and contact your insurance company.
• In your home, immediately remove or air out water-damaged items. It’s critical to minimize the chance of mold growing in your home.
• Do NOT drive or walk through floodwaters which may be electrically-charged and filled with contaminants; just six inches of moving flood water will knock a grown man down. Do NOT underestimate the power of moving waters.

Spring Time Mold Humidity!

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

With spring storms come humidity, and humidity comes mold especially if you’ve had a recent water loss in your home. Ideally, the air conditioning in your home should keep your home at a comfortable humidity level, however when the air is thick and soupy outside, we all know that can sometimes be impossible.

The humidity in your home also rises when you have a water loss, after all, standing water in your home evaporates into the air as it dries. Mold likes this humidity, as well as the wet flooring/drywall that you may have in your home due to flooding. It’s extremely important to get the water in your home extracted and dried as quickly as possible to prevent future mold growth.

If your home has suffered water damage that has led to microbial growth, give SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County a call today at 281-342-5326!

Mold Conditions

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Understanding what conditions mold likes to grow in can help you prevent mold growth in your home or office. Mold can be found nearly anywhere on earth – both indoors and outdoors; usually a few mold spores here or there won’t cause any issues, but if the spores are able to settle and begin growing, they can cause problems.

Mold likes warm, humid conditions. Sometimes, simply having a few extremely humid days in a row will provide the right conditions for mold to grow. Common issues that can lead to excess moisture also include burst or leaky pipes and excessive rainfall. Once mold spores land in a habitable area, they can begin to grow and cover the area in as little as 48 hours.

If you have water damage in your home, make sure it is cleaned up quickly and properly. Call us today to ensure that all areas of your home or office meet dry standards. If mold has already begun growing, our experts can handle that too! We even have specialized formulas to get rid of mold and keep it from coming back. Give us a call today at 281-342-5326 to see how we can help you!

We Are Here To Help!

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are devastating and can mean so much heartache and headache for your home. We know that, and that’s why we make it our mission to treat every fire with the care and compassion needed to make sure that your fire is handled in a quick, professional, and caring manner. We treat every fire the exact same, whether it’s a huge office building, or a small home. We want our customers to make sure they feel heard and understood with their concerns. We work hard to bring your home back to preloss conditions and will clean everything top to bottom in the affected area. We will even wash your textiles for you if they’ve got a gross soot smell to them.

If you’ve been affected by a fire, give us a call today at 281-342-5326!

Heightened Risk Of Fire Damage For Halloween

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

If you found yourself in the midst of a fire because of a holiday decoration mishap, give us a call today at 281-342-5326

With Halloween coming up, it’s officially spooky season! It’s definitely my favorite time of the year. I love all the decorations, pumpkins, and the cooler weather coming in is always a plus. But, with that comes a heightened risk of fire damage. Did you know that on average, Halloween decorations cause about $13 million dollars’ worth of damage each year? Along with that, decorations caused about 860 home structure fires per year between 2009-2013! That’s just the beginning – those numbers climb through the rest of the year with fire damages escalating because of the holiday season.

It’s important to make sure that we are fire aware when it comes to decorations and the holidays. Make sure that all decorations are away from heat sources, including flowy costumes. Make sure you blow out your candle when you leave the room, and if you want to have the smells of a candle, but not the flame invest in a wax warmer – though make sure you follow good safety habits when it comes to electrical heating elements. It may not have fire, but it still can be hot! If you like the look of candles, but don’t mind not having a scent – get battery operated candles! They come in various sizes, shapes, and colors and often times are made out of wax. They are fireproof, pet proof, and kid proof!

Does Your Commercial Business Have A Plan?

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

The holiday season is coming up, and that could mean it’s one of the busiest times of the year for your business! You may not be thinking about it – but do you have a plan in place just incase your office or retail store floods during this busy time? What about if you happen to have a fire? With our ERP or Emergency Ready Program, we can help! With this program, we can walk through your commercial space, document things like water shut offs and floor plans. We will then write up a comprehensive plan and give you a copy – keeping one for ourselves so we know exactly where everything is and what needs to happen in the event of an emergency

So, give us a call today to schedule an -appointment @ -281-342-5326

Commercial Storm Preparedness

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today @ 281-342-5326

We are in the middle of Hurricane season! And it’s been a REALLY active one so, it’s important that we make sure to protect our businesses against water damage and storm damages. When it comes to being prepared, that’s where we come in. We can write an ERP, or Emergency Ready Plan, for you. We’ll detail everything in our plan, from fire, to water damage and where the shut offs are, to even storm damage. When you’re prepared, it makes mitigation quicker and can get your and your team back on your feet and ready to get back to business and making money.

Fire Plan Anyone?

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

House fires are unpredictable. As much as we try to prevent them, sometimes the unthinkable happens and a little spark from faulty wiring you didn’t know about can leave your home engulfed in flames. When this happens, do your and your family have a plan for getting out of your home and to a safe meeting point? A fire escape plan is an invaluable tool to make sure you and your family knows just what to do incase of a fire.

1. Take a weekend and draw up a floor plan of your home for a visual to plan out a fire escape route. Walk through your home with your floor plan and note all the possible exit routes.
2. Keep leashes and carriers by the door, and make sure your pet always wears her collar and tags if she escapes during the chaos. Note where your pet goes when scared to tell a firefighter if you don’t have the opportunity to get them out. Train your pet to come when they’re called.
3. Choose a meeting place away from your home like a neighbor’s mailbox, sign post, or light post and mark the spot on your map.
4. Do a tour with your entire family to make sure that they understand the plan.

In case the inevitable has happened, give SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County a call at 281-342-5326

Put Out A Grease Fire FAST!

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Cooking is not usually considered a dangerous hobby, and many people find it relaxing. Keep your cooking from going south by making your kitchen as safe as you can. Oil is a big ingredient for many dishes, but unfortunately, it can be easy to ignite, and grease fires are not easily put out with water. If you have a grease fire in your kitchen, you need to act quickly to keep the fire from spreading. Follow these steps to put out a grease fire in your kitchen;

• Turn the Heat Off: This step may seem obvious, but in the heat of the moment, you may be panicking and forget to do so. Leave the pot where it is or you risk burning yourself and spilling oil which could spread the fire.

• Put a Metal Lid on the Pot: Fire uses oxygen to burn, so putting a metal lid on the pot will cut off that supply of oxygen. DO NOT use a glass lid; the heat could cause it to shatter. Once the fire burns through the small amount of oxygen left in the pot, it will put itself out. Keep in mind that this will only work if the fire is contained to the pot and has not spread to any other part of the kitchen.

• Use Baking Soda or Salt: This is another trick that will work if the fire is relatively small and contained. Baking soda releases carbon dioxide which smothers the fire, but if the flames are already too large, this may not work. You will need a lot of baking soda for this. Another trick you could try is using salt. Salt is able to absorb a lot of heat, so it is able to remove so much heat that the grease simply can’t support its own combustion any more.

• Use a Fire Extinguisher: Every household should have a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible part of their kitchen. Once you have gotten your fire extinguisher and you have had it properly inspected, you should know how to properly use it, or you could make the flames worse. Do not stand directly in front of the fire when you spray the extinguisher, or the pressure from it can actually spray the grease further and spread the fire. Stand back at a safe distance and spray the fire. This may take a little longer than you would think, so continue using the extinguisher until you are sure the fire is out. Using a fire extinguisher will contaminate your kitchen, so make sure you give it a thorough cleaning before cooking in it again.

• Call 911: If the fire does get out of control, call 911. It is better to do this sooner than later. Get yourself and any family members out of the house until the fire department arrives.

If you need restoration after fire damage, call SERVPRO® of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326.

What To Do "Electrical Fires"

7/5/2019 (Permalink)

Fires in the home can come in many forms. One of the most dangerous fires is an electrical fire. Electrical fires are especially dangerous because not only is a fire ignited, the electricity has the potential to shock an unsuspecting victim. 

Causes of Electrical Fires

Electrical fires often catch homeowners off guard when they are doing something they do everyday, like using a household appliance or plugging something into a socket or power strip. Below is a list of the common causes for electrical fires:

• Faulty outlets and appliances
• Light fixtures, lamps, and light bulbs
• Extension cords
• Space heaters
• Faulty wiring

December and January are the months with the most electrical fires due to an increased amount of heating appliances and lights. However, electrical fires can spark without the overhaul of Christmas lights. Overburdening your electrical outlets with any appliances can quickly spark an electrical fire.

How to Prevent an Electrical Fire

Here are some helpful tips to keep from falling victim to an electrical fire:

• Discard all cords and plugs that are worn or frayed
• Never break off the 3rd prong on a plug to plug it in to a 2-prong socket.
• Keep electrical cords away from water and heat sources.
• Avoid running electrical cords under rugs.
• When unplugging an item, hold the plug securely and remove the plug from the outlet. 
• Only use extension cords temporarily

Properly Putting Out an Electrical Fire

Because electricity is involved, you cannot put out an electrical fire the same way you would a typical fire. 

• Call 911 and GET OUT
• Call your local fire department or dial 911.
• Safely exit the building.
• Keep a safe distance from the building until fire fighters arrive.
• Disconnect the Electricity
• If an appliance is on fire, simply unplug the appliance by grabbing the plug and disconnecting from the wall.
• If the fire is in the wall or in an appliance you can’t unplug, safely get to the switch or electrical panel to shut off the electricity.

If the power is ON:

• Smother a small fire with baking soda.
• Use only a class C or ABC fire extinguisher. Remember to use the fire extinguisher properly.
• NEVER use water on an electrical fire that is still energized.

If the power is OFF:

• Use a fire extinguisher. If the power is off, it doesn’t matter which kind of fire extinguisher.
• Use a fire blanket or other thick blanket to smother the fire. 
• Douse the fire with water. This is only safe and effective if the power source is OFF.

Science of Drying

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know, there is actually a science behind the process of drying? The knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County's professional team is trained in the science if drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. If your business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County professionals will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

What exactly does “Speed up Mother Nature” mean? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is, nature takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out.

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County has been trained to use top-of-the-line equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. We also uses state-of-the-art monitoring equipment, and proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

The bottom line? SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

How To Clean Your Coffee Pot!

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Everyone loves a good cup of joe (yes, even the stuff made in the office), but would they love it so much if they knew what was growing in the pot? Office coffeepots are constantly full of water, and chances are they are not properly cleaned at the end of each workday. The result is generally hidden mold growth that infects every cup of coffee poured. If you want your employees to stay healthy and happy, keep your coffeepots clean. As a bonus for your efforts, your coffee will taste better (and it won’t have that moldy smell anymore either). 

How To Clean Your Coffeepot

Cleaning your coffeepot is simple and shouldn’t take you more than a few minutes each week. Use these six steps, provided by your West Fort Bend County, mold remediation team, to prevent mold growth in your coffeepot and chamber: 

1. Make a solution that is equal parts water and vinegar. Pour this in your coffeemaker’s water chamber. 
2. Set your pot to brew. Allow it to do its job as normal until the water chamber is half empty. 
3. Turn off the machine and let it sit for half an hour, then resume brewing. 
4. Rinse the machine thoroughly, then put in a new filter. Fill the water chamber with just water. Allow it to run through the brewing cycle twice. 
5. Fill the carafe with warm water, some soap and a small amount of either rice or sugar, both of which serve as a gentle abrasive. Twirl the combination around in the pot, and use a sponge to remove any excess buildup. Rinse and dry thoroughly. 
6. Wipe down the outside of your coffeemaker with a damp cloth. 

While steps one through four should be done weekly, steps five and six should be done at the end of each day. By spending an hour each week cleaning your coffeepots, you can prevent mold growth and keep your employees happy and healthy. 

Do You Have Mold?

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can spring up very quickly in humid environments and many homes have areas that are prone to mold growth for this reason. Bathrooms, kitchens, attics, and basements all have the highest chance of developing mold because humid air often circulates in these rooms.  Proper ventilation can help to significantly reduce the chance of mold growth in these areas of your home. It is important to take steps to ensure that each room is well-ventilated and that the air is circulating well.

Some of the most important areas to vent are the bathrooms and the attic. Bathrooms are usually quite small with a lot of warm, moist air circulating within them regularly.  This makes them very susceptible to rapid mold growth.  Investing in vents and fans that push the humid air outside of the home will help to keep mold growth to a minimum.  Attics often have poor ventilation and many homeowners are tempted to quickly ventilate bathrooms by placing vents in the bathrooms that push the humid air into the attic.  This will result in mold growth in the attic, which could then spread into the ducts as well as tight, difficult-to-reach spaces.

Avoid these potentially costly problems by investing in quality fans and vents that will draw humid air out of the rooms, sending it outside of the home, rather than into the attic.

If you see mold, call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326

Where is Your Mold?

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

If you find mold in your home or business, call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at (281)-342-5326

10 Most common areas for mold growth in your home.

Mold is a living organism that belongs to the fungi family (like mushrooms, yeast, and even some  cheeses like blue cheese).

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mold can grow on virtually any organic material as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that grow on wood, paper, carpet, food, and insulation. Because mold eats or digests what it is growing on, it can damage a building and its furnishings. If left unchecked, mold eventually can cause structural damage to building materials.

10 Places to Watch for Mold Growth in Your Home:

• Underneath kitchen sinks
• Underneath or behind refrigerators
• Bathroom shower or under sink
• Behind walls that also house plumbing
• Stacks of damp or wet newspaper or cardboard boxes
• Around air-conditioning units
• Wallboard or around windows that leak
• Under carpeting that may have become wet
• Attics & Crawl Spaces

Where is the Water Shut Off?

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Always Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326

Many workplaces always call on the boss or the maintenance man when something goes wrong. What if they were home sick, or in a meeting and you need to locate the water shut off, where do you start?

By having a plan of action and including it in your regular training at your office you can minimize the cost if an unplanned event happens like a busted pipe, fire or any other type of disaster.

Some property managers use this as a tool to keep everything organized in one central location.

Is your business ready for a disaster? Even a simple pipe burst can cause a lot of damage and headaches. With a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile it can have the critical information to minimize damages, provide the resources for the employees of the company, and provide property details and information. This is a FREE service that we provide to commercial properties.

Types of Equipment Used in Commercial Large Losses

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to commercial large loss restoration, it is crucial for the job to be done quickly and efficiently to reduce the financial loss to the company.  There are several SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Centers throughout the U.S. The key to effective large loss restoration is having the right equipment to get the job done efficiently.  This guide explains the main types of industrial equipment that are used by SERVPRO to provide commercial restoration services for large losses.

The mobile command center is an important piece of equipment for handling large commercial losses.  These command centers are large trailers that can serve as a temporary space for employees to resume business operations while the property of the business is being restored.

It is common for businesses to lose power when a disaster causes major damage.  If there is no power on-site to power up the restoration equipment, the restoration process will take much longer.  SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss centers use mobile generators that are powerful enough to provide power to any size building

Large scale water damage can result from natural floods, storms, pipe bursts, and from extinguishing a fire if there was one on the property.  Excess water and moisture in a building will not only cause severe structural damage, but also result in the appearance of mold which will make the damage worse.  SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss centers use desiccant dehumidifier units to dry large areas affected by water damage.  These trailer mounted units use low vapor air pressure which speeds up the evaporation process by extracting the moisture from the affected materials.  This is the most effective way to handle large scale structural drying and humidity control.

Flood Zones?

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326

After Hurricane Harvey, thousands of people were sent into a financial panic. Most people did not have flood insurance because their house was not located in what is considered a flood zone. Thanks to FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, many of these families were able to begin the recovery process. But what now? What does this once every hundred years storm mean for your insurance? You will be surprised. 

New Flood Zones

Did the Harvey floodwaters cause over $5,000 in damage to your home? If they did, congratulations, you are now in what is considered to be a flood zone. Even if you have never flooded before this one event was all the insurance companies needed to raise their rates for flood insurance in your area. While it is possible and likely Houston will never experience another Harvey, we can not predict how the rivers and flood zones will change. Hence, causing the caution for all the rise in insurance.

Do You Need Flood Insurance?

There is no easy answer to that question. If you are in a flood zone, many communities will require you to have it. Here at SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County, we say "You can never have too much insurance. Better safe than sorry." Our recommendation is if you are along the coast or in a flood zone including those formulated after Harvey, purchase flood insurance. If you are outside of a flood zone speak with your agent to calculate the risk and consider putting together an emergency storm fund. If you do deny to purchase flood insurance your agent will need to receive it in writing. Ultimately, the decision is yours.

Either way, SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County will be ready to take care of you when the next storm hits; And if you do have insurance we are on their vendor list. All you have to do is request us and we will come to take care of you. Experienced a catastrophic weather event? Call us at 281-342-5326.

Better to be Safe Than Sorry!

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Please make sure you have adequate insurance coverage, especially if you live in a storm-prone geographic area. You might also consider creating an emergency fund, which is always a good practice generally, but it’s especially important to have extra resources on hand in the event of a natural disaster. You never know when you will have to evacuate and travel and leave your home. 

Start making an emergency plan with your family, friends, and household by discussing the types of disasters that could strike and what to do at different times of the day. Discuss how to prepare and respond to emergencies that are most likely to happen where you live, learn, work, and play. Keep your emergency plan as simple as possible and use places that are very familiar and hard to forget. Identify responsibilities for each member of your household and plan to work together as a team. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is here to help. Give us a call 281-342-5326.

SERVPRO Can Save Your Contents!

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County @ (281)-342-5326

When water overflows into a property, it does not discriminate, and any item within reach is submerged. However, the damage it causes in different items within the affected area varies. There are items ruined within just a few minutes of exposure to the water. Others can only be ruined if left submerged for extended periods. Finally, some items might not exhibit any signs of damage after the exposure but develop problems later on. It is necessary to follow the right procedures to save valuable items in your home after a water loss incident.   You should pay serious attention to electronics during water removal. If they end up submerged, you might incur huge losses. The issue with most electronics is that even a few minutes underwater can ruin them. In addition to this, the items might continue functioning normally then exhibit signs of damage long after the loss. Our SERVPRO technicians can help you save electronics exposed to water. We remove the items from the affected areas or cover them with plastic sheets if it is not possible to move them. Such actions limit further exposure.   Another prized item in many households is clothes. Property flooding can ruin clothes in different ways. The most straightforward way is the transfer of stains from the dark to the bright colored clothes. You can prevent this by separating the clothes immediately after you detect flooding in the closet. Contaminants in the water and the surfaces where you place the clothes can also stain them.

The water might also affect documents and important books within the home. It is possible to limit the extent of damage by choosing the right removal procedure. Our SERVPRO technicians rely on sublimation methods to save the documents. The method works by changing solids to vapor directly without passing through liquid stages. For this to work, we have to find the damaged documents within 24 hours and freeze them within 48 hours.   You can save your items from unnecessary damages in case of water loss. Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at (281)-342-5326

Commercial Flooding Damage

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is an experienced & trusted water damage remediation company. Call us @ (281)-342-5326.

Clogged drains can cause overflows resulting in water damage, and usually do so with no notice. You suddenly have a massive amount of water where it does not belong. Expert, fast action is needed and is essential to protect your property to minimize the harm.   Since plumbing accidents can happen without warning, SERVPRO has experienced crews ready to respond to your water removal emergency any time of the day, any day of the week. We act quickly to ensure the safety of you and our workers and determine the cause of the overflow problem in your home. If it has not already been done, we shut down the water supply.   Upon arrival, we pre-inspect the damaged areas carefully and look for any dangerous situations such as electrical hazards or soft subflooring. The standing water is then pumped out with industrial, truck-mounted pumps for large volumes of water. If the sink is located on an upper floor, we check the walls and floors underneath it for any water seepage and remove that as necessary.   SERVPRO technicians also use a moisture meter to figure out the extent of the water penetration in flooring, ceilings, and walls. We move and block any furniture when necessary and extract water from hard surface flooring and carpeting. Carpets are detached, and we then extract the water from the padding and floor. The pad is removed from your structure and in most cases, it is discarded.   Once everything affected is checked for additional damages such as delamination in carpets, or visible mold, we treat with an appropriate deodorizer and antimicrobial. We position air movers for drying, so they deliver a rapid airflow to the wet surfaces. We base the number of air movers on the recommendations from IICRC. The driers are often checked, and the positions of them are shifted as needed to make sure your home is dried in the shortest amount of time possible. 

Do You Know What To Do When A Pipe Bursts?

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t let the cold temperatures of winter burst your pipes. By following these simple tips, you’ll not only save yourself the trouble of broken pipes and gushing water, but you’ll also save yourself a lot of money in repair fees.

• Insulate pipes or faucets in unheated areas. Pipelines in an unheated garage or cold crawl space under the house can freeze; wrap the water pipes before temperatures plummet. Hardware or building supply stores have pipe wrapping materials available. 
• Seal off access doors, air vents and cracks. Repair broken windows to keep the cold winter winds outside where they belong.  
• Find the master shutoff. The master valve may be near the water heater or washing machine. Make sure everyone in your household knows where it is in case a pipe burst. Acting quickly can prevent flooding and thousands of dollars in repairs.  
• Worried about pipe freeze? Run a minimal amount of water in a kitchen sink, on nights when weather forecast calls less than 20 degrees. A small and steady stream of water will be enough to keep your pipes from freezing, and you can even collect the water in a bucket to water houseplants.
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses. You should have all outdoor water connections, including irrigation systems, properly shut off during the winter. A single overnight freeze can burst faucets and pipes, so it’s important to disconnect the hose and let the water drain.
• It’s too late – my pipes already froze! What do I do now?
• First, call your plumber!
• Second, locate your master shutoff valve. This will come in handy if things take a turn for the worst.
• Third (for those DIY-ers out there), don’t try and melt the water by using fire, as heating one spot of the pipe can cause it to burst. Instead, use a hair dryer on low to distribute the heat evenly across the pipe.
• If you don’t have a hair dryer, then you can wrap the frozen section in rags and gently pour hot water across it. The rags help to distribute the heat from the water evenly.  

Have You Found Mold?

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is always available to respond to your concerns, call us at (281)-342-5326 to know your options.

Nothing is standard when it comes to mold damage remediation since different areas have different contamination levels. If it is a small section of your business premises that have contamination, we must contain the area to ensure the spores do not disperse to uncontaminated areas. If air vents are supplying and returning from the site, we must block them. Putting the site under negative pressure can also limit the movement of spores in your business. 

The type of material or surface the mold is growing on determines the remediation technique we use to remove the mold contamination from your business. If our SERVPRO technicians notice there is active mold on porous items such as insulation, carpeting, fabrics, and drywall, we have to remove the material from the site. If carpets and some of your upholstered furniture are not extremely contaminated, we may perform steam cleaning with the aim of cleaning them. We do not perform wet vacuuming on porous items since some mold fragments can remain within the item. The type of material or surface the mold is growing on determines the mold damage remediation technique we use to remove the contamination. We can damp-wipe nonporous materials such as metals, glass, and plastics using a disinfectant. If the mold is not firmly attached to such items, we can clean them using HEPA vacuuming. Our SERVPRO team can scrub wooden floors and use a wood floor cleaner when cleaning wooden floors. Some of the methods we use when cleaning semi-porous materials such as concrete and wood include wire brushing, damp wiping, and sanding. Wood that has undergone rotting weakens and should be removed and replaced. Once we complete cleaning, we give the mold spores time to settle before we can repeat the cleaning process. Also, cleaning takes place from the upper parts of a structure towards its bottom parts.

17 Years of Service

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County first opened its doors in 2002. For over 17 years, it has been our pleasure to serve all of the cleanup and restoration needs of the Park Cities area. Throughout the years, both our professionals and services have grown in their expertise and knowledge. Our employees are certified experts in all realms of the restoration world, you couldn't ask for a better team when it comes to the care of your home or commercial property. Our services now span from water and fire restoration to biohazard cleanups and air duct cleanings. We are ready, at a moments notice, to help the community in a variety of ways with an amazing team of highly trained professionals. To better understand the range of ways SERVPRO can serve you, check out our list of services:

Restoration Services

Fire, Smoke & Soot

Water Removal

Dehumidification

Catastrophic Storm Response

Move Outs

Contents Restoration

Electronics and Equipment

Document Drying

Contents Claim Inventory Service

Cleaning Services

Air Ducts & HVAC

Biohazard, Crime Scene & Vandalism

Carpet & Upholstery

Drapes & Blinds

Ceilings, Walls & Hard Floors

Deodorization

Spring Cleaning Tips

3/14/2019 (Permalink)

Spring has officially sprung and that means it is time for spring cleaning! If you think the only way to clean your home is with harsh chemicals, think again! You can clean almost every surface in your home with distilled white vinegar. Get every room in your home looking clean and smelling fresh by following these spring cleaning tips.

Clean Carpet

Over the course of the winter, your carpet may have developed an odor and it may have sand, salt, and dirt trapped inside of it. Help eliminate the odor and remove anything trapped inside of the carpet by mixing essential oils and distilled white vinegar. Before applying this mixture, test it out on a small area of your carpet because some fabrics are sensitive and it may cause damage.

Clean Windows

Over time, windows get dirty or develop smudges. You can make your windows look crystal clear by mixing one part hot water and one part distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle. Simply spray the solution on the window and wipe away to clean.

Follow these three steps to make your windows truly shine.

1. Clean from the top down.
2. Do NOT clean your windows in direct sunlight. This will cause streaking.
3. Avoid damage to your window frames by drying immediately.

Clean Mattress

Dust mites and odors are inevitable when it comes to mattresses. You can help eliminate them by doing the following steps.

1. Remove all sheets and blankets from the bed.
2. Spray mattress with distilled white vinegar.
3. Sprinkle baking soda over the white vinegar and let it bubble.
4. Place a towel over mattress for 1-2 hours or until dry.
5. Vacuum up any residue from the baking soda.

Clean Refrigerator

You probably want to avoid using harsh chemicals where you store your food. Follow these steps to get your refrigerator looking like new!

1. Remove all contents from the refrigerator.
2. Wash shelves and the sides of the refrigerator with one part hot water and one part distilled white vinegar.
3. Dry all areas of the refrigerator
4. Wipe down jars before putting them back in the refrigerator.

Clean Bathtub

Over the course of time, your tub can build up with grime and soap residue. You can eliminate the buildup with ease by doing the following.

1. Fill a spray bottle with one part hot water and one part distilled white vinegar
2. Spray mixture in the tub and let it sit for 15 minutes.
3. Wipe clean with a sponge or a towel
4. Rise tub with water and wipe again 

Bio hazard Cleanup

3/14/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326

The death of a loved one is a devastating event for family and friends. When a person dies in the home or at a business, the cleanup afterward can prove too traumatic for family to perform. Outdoor scenes of death are often cleaned by a fire department, but if someone has died inside a building cleanup needs can be extensive. Odor, blood spills and tissue remains may need to be removed. Specific procedures should be followed to ensure permanent remediation, allowing dignified closure of a painful chapter. 

Warnings

• Always confirm professional cleanup services are certified or licensed in accordance with your state regulations for death-related cleanup projects.

  Instructions included in this article are intended as general guidelines and do not constitute training or certification in biohazard cleanup or removal.

   

  Always wear OSHA-compliant protective gear when cleaning up biohazardous materials, including blood, brain matter, feces, vomit, and decomposition seepage.

Flood Indoor Air Quality

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Flood Cleanup to Protect Indoor Air Quality

During a flood cleanup, the indoor air quality in your home or office may appear to be the least of your problems. However, failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity can present serious long-term health risks. Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria and mold. They can cause disease, trigger allergic reactions and continue to damage materials long after the flood.

Replacing Your Flooring after a Flood

If you are repairing your home or building after a flood or hurricane, to prevent mold growth you should be sure your foundation is dry before you replace the flooring. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) issued a standard which describes an easy way to check if your concrete slab is dry enough to replace the flooring. The basic approach is to fasten the edges of a clear piece of plastic sheeting to a concrete slab, and wait for approximately 16 hours. If moisture is visible on the plastic sheeting, it is still too wet to replace the flooring.

Hoarding, We Can Help

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Each hoarding situation is different:

The way they started hoarding, the items they collect, the reasoning behind it, the conditions it is in.

Because each situation is different we handle each case on a case by case scenario. A hoarder home is one of the most difficult types of jobs to handle. Not only do we need to make sure that the contents are packed and boxed in order for us to do our job (handle the water damage/fire) but we also have to be mindful that these contents more than likely holds significant value to our customer.

How does one get into the situation where their home is completely full of contents and they are to the extreme buried alive?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Hoarding is the persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value. The behavior usually has deleterious effects—emotional, physical, social, financial, and even legal—for a hoarder and family members.

For those who hoard, the quantity of their collected items sets them apart from other people. Commonly hoarded items may be newspapers, magazines, paper and plastic bags, cardboard boxes, photographs, household supplies, food, and clothing.

 Hoarding can be related to compulsive buying (such as never passing up a bargain), the compulsive acquisition of free items (such as collecting flyers), or the compulsive search for perfect or unique items (which may not appear to others as unique, such as an old container).

SYMPTOMS AND BEHAVIOR

Someone who hoards may exhibit the following:

• Inability to throw away possessions
• Severe anxiety when attempting to discard items
• Great difficulty categorizing or organizing possessions
• Indecision about what to keep or where to put things
• Distress, such as feeling overwhelmed or embarrassed by possessions
• Suspicion of other people touching items
• Obsessive thoughts and actions: fear of running out of an item or of needing it in the future; checking the trash for accidentally discarded objects
• Functional impairments, including loss of living space, social isolation, family or marital discord, financial difficulties, health hazards

Cleaning Commercial Buildings

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326

Cleaning Flooded Buildings:

This Fact Sheet was developed to help building owners, operators, contractors, and volunteer assistance groups deal with the challenges of working in structures that were not fully cleaned and dried shortly after the flooding. Remember that when first returning to a flood-damaged building, responders should follow the initial precautions and restoration steps detailed in the FEMA Recovery Advisory, The ABC’s of Returning to Flooded Buildings (Appendix E of FEMA 549, 2005). When a flooded home has not been cleaned and dried within a few weeks of the flood event, mold contamination should be expected, and specific steps are needed to clean and restore the home. Basic cleaning and drying information is presented in the FEMA Recovery Advisory Initial Restoration for Flooded Buildings (FEMA 549, 2005), which specifies five steps for post-flood building restoration, including (1) air out, (2) move out, (3) tear out, (4) clean out, and (5) dry out. This Fact Sheet builds on the last two of these steps and assumes that the majority of the muck-out and gutting process has been completed and the home is ready for cleaning and drying.

Key Issues

• Floodwaters carry a variety of contaminants such as bacteria, oil, heavy metals, and pesticides. While first responders’ initial evaluations of Hurricane Sandy floodwaters indicated that exposure to such items are below current limits for safe occupancy, proper cleaning and preparation for rebuilding is critical to protect workers and occupants from both short-term hazards and long-term risk.

• Other hazards are present in addition to the substances brought in with the floodwaters, especially in homes that were not dried out within a week of the flooding. Safety issues related to wet mechanical and electrical systems, exposure to lead and asbestos released from building materials, and mold growth need to be addressed.

• Mold is a serious health hazard if the home is reoccupied without proper cleaning. Although a variety of products and techniques can reduce and control mold, the cleaning and drying process described in this Fact Sheet also helps to remove other floodwater contaminants.

Personal Safety

Flooded buildings can pose a number of health and safety risks, for both individuals who wish to maintain occupancy and those who work to repair them. Eliminating hazards is the best way to protect occupants and workers; however, until conditions can be returned to normal, anyone working in a flooded building should use appropriate personal safety equipment and take appropriate safety precautions.

Follow Us!

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is officially apart of the social media world. We are trying to enhance our ability to help anyone who needs it.  With multiple social media pages it allows the customer to access our services more easily.  This also enable the customer to get a better feel for who we are as a company and who each of our employees are as people.  Please check us out at any of our social media pages for a better look at SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County and the occasional DIY for home improvements.

Twitter:  SERVPRO Of West Fort Bend County

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Instagram:  SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County  

Do's and Don'ts of Disaster Cleanup

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

Fires and Floods: Dos and Don’ts of Disaster Cleanup

There’s a lot of things you plan to do in the event of a flood, fire, or other disaster. Hopefully you’ll never have to do them.

But what do you do once the unthinkable happens? You probably already have an emergency plan in place for when a disaster is approaching, or even happening at that moment. But what about when it’s over? How on earth are you supposed to get back on your feet after a fire or flood has damaged or destroyed your home? Well, the good news is we can help you rebuild your world. Here are some tips on disaster cleanup from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, The American Red Cross, and Aer Industries, a company that deals with professional disaster restoration.

First, be safe.

If you must evacuate your home, don’t reenter it until a fire or other local official has given the OK. If your home was severely damaged, wait for a contractor to evaluate it and, if necessary, shore up damaged areas before you return.

“Water or fire damage in a building can cause more than surface-deep damage,” said the Aer Industries team, in an e-mail.

After a fire, the fire department should ensure utilities are safe to use or disconnected. Don’t reconnect utilities, FEMA recommended. Standing water and electricity is a bad combination, so make sure the power’s off before you enter a flooded area.

3 Subdued Potential Problems

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326

To be successful in business, you must stay on top of the competition. You must also plan for potential catastrophes. Few things can destroy a business faster than a fire. As such, you must carry comprehensive property insurance to protect your business from fire loss. Not all commercial fires are a total loss, though. If your business has sustained partial loss in a fire, you must watch for three potential problems.

1. Insufficient Cleaning

While flames are usually destructive, they may not be your biggest nightmare. On the contrary, smoke damage may affect all parts of your business. Even worse, fire-containment measures can dirty or destroy parts of your building that flames never touched. Fortunately, a qualified fire restoration service can likely return your business to its pre-fire condition. When planning repairs after a partial-loss fire, be sure you work with a reputable firm to sufficiently clean the structure.

2. Unseen Damage

Fires have a way of damaging all parts of a building. That is, fire loss can be hidden deep within the walls, ductwork or foundation. When assessing damage, be sure to consider the following:

Smoke

Soot

Air quality

Mold

Fire remediators have the experience, skill and equipment to completely analyze your fire-restoration needs. Rather than assuming untouched parts of the building are free from damage, request a comprehensive analysis.

Did You Know About Lead?

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

Lead paint and lead poisoning as it pertains to old houses, have long been a lightening rod of controversy. Some people fear old homes of having lead paint and have difficulty buying them. Lead paint may not be the national health concern you've been told. For children and pregnant women, even the smallest amount of lead can be dangerous. Recent EPA, CDC rules and regulations concerning lead paint are completely unwanted and accomplish nothing , but increased cost for home owners. If your home was built before 1978,  there is a good chance it has lead base paint. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is very careful to follow the complex array of rules laid out in the Era's renovation, repair and painting act or (RRP), that went into effect in April 2010. Determine if your family is at risk for lead poisoning with the lead poisoning checklist. Be aware that a older home is more likely to have lead paint. 

3 Reasons to Not Wait For an Adjuster to Visit Before Restoring Your Home

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

After your home has sustained water damage due to a flood, flood insurance often requires an adjuster to come to your home to assess the damage that has been done. However, waiting to restore your home until after an adjuster to come to your home after a storm is often not necessary for several reasons.

1. Adjusters Are Busy

Once a natural disaster has occurred, insurance companies immediately begin to work with their customers to help them restore their homes. However, the demand for an adjuster to visit homes can mean you’ll be waiting to see an adjuster. Waiting to begin making major fixes to your home isn’t necessary, and you can document the damage that has been done by taking photographs and saving receipts.

2. You Won’t Lose Money Cleaning Up

Although you might be tempted to leave your home exactly as it is after it has sustained flood damage, you will not receive less compensation if you start the cleanup process quickly. It is likely that you will want or need certain items removed from your home before your flood insurance company sends an adjuster to visit your home, and this is okay. Documenting the cleanup process can help to ensure you are fairly compensated for your losses.

3. Your Home Could Become More Damaged

Minor issues in your home can quickly become major issues if they are not fixed in a timely manner. Structural damage, mold damage and more can occur if your home is not dried out and if standing water is not removed. In order to save yourself from having to spend more money, time and effort in restoring your home, it’s often wise to start the restoration process quickly.

Knowing that you do not have to wait for your flood insurance company to send an adjuster to your home before beginning the restoration process might help you save money and protect your home. As you start the restoration process, many people find it helpful to work with professionals in water damage cleanup and restoration.

Mold Remediation Coverage

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation in Rosenberg, TX

Mold spores are everywhere, and under normal circumstances, they don't pose much of a threat to your building. If, however, spores find just the right combination of heat, oxygen, food and moisture, patches of mold may start to form in as little as 24 hours. Does your commercial insurance cover the damage?

Limitations and Exceptions

The insurance policy on your property probably covers mold damage in most cases. Even if the policy has a fungus exclusion, there are typically exceptions to the exclusion that include specified causes of loss:

Vandalism

Windstorm

Hailstorm

Smoke

Fire

Lightning

It is unlikely that mold growth will result from any of these issues, but they are not the only circumstances that may be covered under your policy. Your commercial insurance may include Limited Fungus Coverage. This clause basically serves as mold insurance and covers testing, damage, cleanup and restoration. Your insurance carrier may cover up to $15,000 in mold damage under such a policy.

Responsibility and Timeliness

It's important to remember that fungus coverage may not apply if the mold growth is the result of your neglect. As soon as you detect a leak or excess moisture problem in your building, you have the responsibility to take care of it efficiently. Water damage specialists should be called in a timely manner. If the leak is extensive, they may not be able to fix it before mold sets in, but your quick action can lower your risk and minimize the damage, which increases the likelihood that your insurance company will be receptive to covering the cost.

Rodent Problem?

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326

One of the most necessary times to get your ducts cleaned is after a rodent infestation.

Often times mice and or rats can make their way into your home through a small crack somewhere in your roof or foundation and then set up shop in your HVAC pipes/vents.

When you have a professional exterminator remove the rodent issue you still want to go the extra step and have your HVAC system cleaned well! The rodent urinates often and that mixed with their droppings can cause health issues in some people due to it getting airborne in your system.

SERVPRO has the equipment and manpower to clean your air ducts quickly and professionally.

Even if you have not had a rodent issue it is still a good idea to do a yearly cleaning just to be on the safe side, so call SERVPRO to schedule yours

17 Years of Service

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County first opened its doors in 2002. For over 17 years, it has been our pleasure to serve all of the cleanup and restoration needs of the Park Cities area. Throughout the years, both our professionals and services have grown in their expertise and knowledge. Our employees are certified experts in all realms of the restoration world, you couldn't ask for a better team when it comes to the care of your home or commercial property. Our services now span from water and fire restoration to biohazard cleanups and air duct cleanings. We are ready, at a moments notice, to help the community in a variety of ways with an amazing team of highly trained professionals. To better understand the range of ways SERVPRO can serve you, check out our list of services:

Restoration Services

Fire, Smoke & Soot

Water Removal

Dehumidification

Catastrophic Storm Response

Move Outs

Contents Restoration

Electronics and Equipment

Document Drying

Contents Claim Inventory Service

Cleaning Services

Air Ducts & HVAC

Biohazard, Crime Scene & Vandalism

Carpet & Upholstery

Drapes & Blinds

Ceilings, Walls & Hard Floors

Deodorization

Why you should choose SERVPRO

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326

While any disaster is tough to cope with, large loss incidents present a unique set of challenges. The breadth of damage is larger, and the resources required for repair are equally inflated. It’s key that you get the right team to handle your catastrophic loss or things could get worse. Know what to look for in a large loss team – follow these tips.

What is a Large Loss Event

Generally speaking, a large loss event is one that stretches beyond one or two properties, to encompass an entire neighborhood, region or even larger area. Examples can include;

• hurricanes/storm damage
• widespread flooding
• earthquakes
• terrorist events

These events require a higher magnitude of the response due to size and resources needed.

Look for Experience

While any local cleanup company can claim they know large response, only a few truly have the experience. Ask a prospective cleanup partner for specific examples and strategies used in a wide breadth of disasters. This can help you determine if they can handle your catastrophic loss.

Look for a Big Team

A big loss requires a big response, and that won’t come from a ragtag team. Make sure your prospective partner has a good-sized staff trained to properly respond, manage the project, and restore the affected structure or structures.

Look for Speed

Flooding can cause major damage to your property in just 24 hours or less, so it’s critical that a disaster response team assess the damage and formulate a plan quickly. Make sure to choose a cleanup partner able to arrive within an hour of your phone call.
The way you handle a large catastrophic loss can have implications for years to come. Make sure you do things the right way. Use the above tips to find the right cleanup partner and you won’t regret making the wrong decision.

Stay Safe from Carbon Monoxide

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

You can't see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels, it can kill a person in minutes. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide, or CO, is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas, created when fuels, like gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas and propane burn incompletely. 

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning. It is estimated another 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized due to CO poisoning. All people and animals are at risk for CO poisoning, with some groups - including unborn babies, infants, and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or respiratory problems - being more susceptible to the effects of carbon monoxide. 

An excess of CO, leading to CO poisoning, can result from faulty furnaces or other heating appliances, portable generators, water heaters, clothes dryers, or idling cars left running in garages. 

Taking some basic, precautionary steps can help eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Protect yourself by reviewing the following tips, provided by the United States Fire Administration.

• Have fuel-burning appliances, like oil and gas furnaces, gas or kerosene heaters, fire places and wood stoves inspected by a trained professional every year. 
• open the damper for proper ventilation before using a fireplace. Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home. 
• Make sure all fuel-burning vented equipment is vented to the outside to avoid CO poisoning. Keep the venting for exhaust clear and unblocked. 
• If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Never run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even it garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice , or other materials. 
• Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris. 
• Only use barbecue grills outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings. Some grills can produce CO gas. Never use grills inside the home or the garage, even if the doors are open.
• Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows, vents and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home. 

Impact Of Flood

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO Of West Fort Bend County for any flood damage in your home/business. (281)-342-5326

The physical destruction caused by flooding depends on the speed and level of the water, the duration of the flood, terrain and soil conditions, and the built environment (e.g., buildings, roads, and bridges).

- Flooding can cause fatalities and serious injuries for people who are trapped or swept away by wading in, driving through, or boating across floodwaters.

- Transportation routes, power, water, gas, and other services may be disrupted. - Commercial supplies and government support systems may be temporarily unavailable.

- Drinking water supplies and wells may become polluted.

- Floodwaters can cause erosion, which can damage roads, bridge structures, levees, and buildings with weak foundations, causing their collapse without warning. The floodwaters may carry the worn-away mud, rocks, and other sediment.

- Landslides and mudslides can occur.

Water Damage Restoration

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO Of West Fort Bend County for your water damaged needs. (281)-342-5326

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County technicians are certified for drying excessive water damage. Accidents such as sewage backup, flooding, and broken pipes can happen to anyone. Quick action is necessary to stop further degradation of the property.

Our trained and certified technicians start the process by first stopping the flow of water. Without stopping the flow of water, the technician will not be able to start the repairing process of the residence. Stabilization the source is critical to proceed with the drying process and restoration.

To begin the drying process is water extraction SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County has numerous pieces of equipment that remove the excess water and moisture from the residence. We have tools that measure the moisture during the drying process.

Air movers are utilized to cycle the air which is an important process. The technician learns how to choose the right air movers, and how to place them properly for maximum results.

 The proper solution to help with the drying process and lessen the damage the structure of your home and belongings is evaporation. Evaporation is natural with proper circulation. This process is used to speed up the process or it can prevent the process.

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County technicians are trained in evaporation so to hurry the drying of the structure and furnishes along. This technique will prevent microbial growth and the structure will be stabilized. Every step of the drying process is critical for a positive outcome.

Protect Your Home/Business from Storm Water

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

If your home or business have experienced storm damage call us at (281)-342-5326 to make it "Like it never even happened."

Stormwater runoff is rain that has not been soaked into the ground, so it flows over the ground until it finds somewhere to go. Ideally, the water would find a stream or river to flow into, but this is not always the case. Sometimes the water will flow straight into your house. Water damage is never fun, and trying to get rid of water as well as clean up the rest of the mess a storm has left behind can be a real hassle. The best way to handle stormwater runoff is to make sure it doesn’t happen to begin with. If you are up for a bit of landscaping, you can optimize your yard to keep stormwater away from your building.

• Swales: Simply put, a swale is just a type of trench meant to carry water and redirect it away from something important. If you decide to install swales in your yard, make sure they are redirecting somewhere that the water will not cause damage such as a stream or pond.

• Rain Gardens: These gardens are designed with plants that are able to take up excess water to keep it from flowing freely. They also help filter the water so that the water that does reach ponds and rivers tends to be cleaner than water that has just flowed over driveways and roads.

• Draining Driveways: Driveways are one of the largest contributors to stormwater runoff. Installing drainage areas on the sides of the pavement or using gravel can help minimize the amount of water that becomes runoff.

Sometimes there is so much runoff that no matter what you do, your house may suffer from some water damage

Tips On How To Prevent Winter Home Fires

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

The winter season is here and with it comes shorter days and lower temperatures. No matter where you live, winter brings a change in the weather. In an effort to keep our homes and workplaces cozy, many people use alternative heat sources like fire places, portable space heaters, and wood burning stoves. Did you know, heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths? According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment fires cause estimated $1 billion in direct property damage annually. Keep the following safety tips in mind to help reduce your risk of a heating-related fire. 

• Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or a portable space heater. Have a three foot "kid-free zone" around open fires and space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.

50% of all residential heating-related fires are reported during the months of December, January and February.

• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturers instructions.
• Test smoke alarms monthly.

If your property suffers from fire damage, contact SERVPRO Of West Fort Bend County to help make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO is "Ready For Whatever Happens"

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

When a storm or disaster strikes your home or business, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team is poised and "Ready for whatever happens." With a network of more than 1,700 franchises nationwide, the SERVPRO system strives to be faster to any size disaster. Strategically located throughout the United States, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team is expertly trained and readily equipped to handle the largest storms and highest flood waters. Providing experience, manpower, equipment, and other resources, the Disaster Recovery Team is always on call and available to assist SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County. SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team has responded to hundreds of disaster events. In the aftermath of a disaster, there is only one objective: to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Have a Water Problem? Let Us Solve Your Problem!

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Call us 281-342-5326 and let us help make it "Like it never even happened.”

A pipe bursts. A water heater leaks. A bathtub overflows. Flood waters rush in. A sprinkler system malfunctions. Water damage can happen in any number of ways. But, if your business or home is under a few inches of water, everything else takes a backseat. Only one thing matters when your business can’t operate, and there is just one thing on the mind of the water-logged resident: A solution.

Your local SERVPRO Professionals are that solution. Equipped with the knowledge, the experience, and the training to help make your water damage “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO Professionals will start helping the moment you call. Backed by more than 40 years of experience, your SERVPRO Professionals will help put your worries at ease, because they understand the sciences of drying.

When water damage strikes, give SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County a call; they will help to make things right, make things dry, and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Smoke alarm Installed by SERVPRO Saves family of Five

12/12/2018 (Permalink)

On December 6th in Richmond, TX a family of five was awoken by the sounds of smoke alarms going off in their house. This was a result of a space heater left plugged in overnight. The smoke alarms that woke the family, saving their lives, were installed by the American Red Cross with the help of SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County for the April, 2017 "Sound The Alarm" event. This event is a annual service held across the country to help save lives and educate families. We do this by going into communities, installing smoke alarms and educating people about fire safety.

Top 3 Commercial Plumbing Issues

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

A blocked sewer can wreak havoc on any commercial establishment in Houston, TX. A plumbing system is a complex network of pipelines. When it malfunctions, it can cause problems ranging from water leaks to sewage overflows. Whether you own a restaurant, an apartment complex or anything in between, there are a few common issues to look out for.

1. Overflowing Toilet

It's stinky, messy and can happen when you least expect it. Yes, it's the dreaded overflowing toilet. In fact, it's the leading cause of water damage in commercial properties. Overflows occur when there's a blockage in the pipeline. Common causes for these blockages include:

• Tree roots
• Toilet paper buildup
• A shift in the building's foundation
• Poorly installed plumbing drains

If it's a minor mishap, your maintenance crew can handle it. Otherwise, if there's extensive water-related damage, a professional cleaning service has the expertise to come in and straighten things out.

2. Blocked Pipes

A blocked sewer system doesn't pop up overnight. This plumbing problem develops over time. The main causes of blockages come from debris buildup and tree root infiltration. As a preventive measure, consider having a commercial plumbing company inspect your pipeline system on a routine basis.

3. Busted Pipes

Can your building's pipes handle freezing temperatures? If not, you may be in for a rude awakening when winter hits. Frigid weather conditions often result in pipe breaks, especially in areas of your property where there's missing insulation, outside walls and drafty areas. Fortunately, many insurance providers cover water damage related to busted pipes.

Sewage problems come with the territory when you own commercial property. To prepare, it's best to know the common issues buildings encounter, such as such as a toilet overflow, a blocked sewer and busted pipes. While your maintenance staff can address minor issues, it's better to hire a commercial cleaning company in Houston, TX for major pipeline disasters. For more information, visit www.SERVPROwestfortbendcounty.com

Commercial Building Restoration and Cleaning Services in Houston

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is ready to respond immediately and work quickly to clean or restore your business. We understand that your property’s appearance is important and that every hour spent restoring is an hour of lost productivity. When you need a restoration or cleaning professional, SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

Every commercial property experiences wear and tear, including dirt and grime that accumulates from ordinary use. You can count on SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County to make your workspace look its very best. Professional cleaning helps to protect your carpet and upholstery and increase its life-span. Learn more about our commercial cleaning services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation

Have Questions? Call Today – (281) 342-5326

How To Address Fire and Water Damage

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

The fire at your house in Houston, TX is blazing out of control. You watch from the street as the fire hose saturates your home with 1200 gallons of water per minute. You breathe a sigh of relief as the fire is extinguished. Now you face a new challenge, a combination of fire damage and water damage. To combat this disastrous duo, take the following steps to return your home to preloss condition.

Initial Steps.

It is overwhelming when you first see the destruction in your house. You recognize that you cannot clean up the mess yourself. Who do you call?

• Contact the insurance agency that holds your homeowner’s policy. Inform the agent of the damage and discuss coverage and next steps.
• Call an emergency fire and water restoration company. The specialists typically arrive at your home within hours to inspect and assess the damage, day or night.
• Before restoration efforts begin, the specialists may board up windows and/or place a tarp on the roof to secure your property and prevent further damage.

Water Damage.

Firefighters use a significant amount of water to snuff the inferno, leaving your home drenched. What steps do water restoration specialists take to properly dry your home?

• Wet/dry vacuums and pumps extricate flooding and excess water from the house.
• Industrial strength dehumidifiers and air movers remove moisture from walls and floors.

Fire Damage.

The fire is gone, but the soot and smoke remains. How do fire restoration specialists clean and deodorize your house?

• Specialized equipment is used to remove smoke and soot from walls, ceilings and floors.
• Fogging equipment and air scrubbers remove smoke odors from the source.

It is heartbreaking to see your home in Puyallup, WA, engulfed in flames. The aftermath of water and fire damage is equally hard to face. Work with your insurance agent and a fire and water restoration specialist to return your home to preloss condition and resume your life.

For more information, please visit us at www.SERVPROwestfortbendcounty.com

Protein Fires in Houston Texas: What Are They and How Are They Treated?

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

Protein fires create an especially unique restoration challenge. Fire damage caused by burnt food can also create odor issues which are difficult to mitigate. Here are some important facts regarding this type of fire.

1. Protein fires generally leave little visible residue, often confusing the untrained observer
2. They create a significantly more repugnant smell than most other fires
3. The nature of the burn causes the odor to permeate structure and furniture even more completely than other fires
4. Require extremely thorough cleaning to remove the odor
5. Sometimes require a sealing agent or even repainting to completely eradicate the odor
6. May require multiple attempts and methods to achieve customer satisfaction

It is also important to recognize that perception of odor is highly individual.  There are no tools available to “measure” smell, and as a result, a homeowner may perceive odors that technicians or even neighbors cannot.  Often times, because of the strong link between smell and memory, a homeowner may experience “phantom odors” where the memory of the event causes reproduction of the odor even after thorough cleaning.

Fire Damage In Your Home Or Business? Call the professionals at SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at (281) 342-5326.

3 Common Questions About Mold Growth

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

When it comes to mold growth in Fort Bend County it can be difficult to know what exactly you’re dealing with and how to deal with it. Below are three common questions people face when facing mold problems.

1. What Is Mold?

Simply put, mold is fungus. There are many types of mold, and they exist everywhere. When it comes to the mold that is bad for you, its technical name is stachybotrys chartarum, which is commonly referred to as black mold. The spores of mold are microscopic, so you won’t always have visual evidence of the presence of mold. Mold will generally have a musty smell, which can help you become aware of its presence.

2. What Makes Mold Grow?

Generally, mold grows because of moisture. High humidity can exacerbate mold problems, helping it form in as little as 48 hours. Not only does moisture come from high humidity, but it can also come from water damage, such as leaky pipes or roofs or condensation. Also, mold growth is encouraged in dark, warm environments.

3. What Is the Difference between Regular Mold and Problematic Mold?

The presence of most mold is usually visible to the naked eye. Mildew, a type of mold that isn’t as problematic and can be cleaned away, is usually gray or white. However, problematic mold is usually black or green with a “fuzzy” texture. However, even if only one of these types of mold appears to be present, it’s possible that the other is present as well, since they can go hand in hand.

Even if you have a good understanding of mold growth, it can still be a good idea to contact a professional and let them deal with remedying the problem. Additionally, stay away from the mold area, turn off air conditioners and fans and do not attempt any sort of cleaning.

If you notice any signs of mold give us a call at (281) 342-5326.

When It Comes To Mold in Houston, Leave It To The Professionals

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

Anyone who has dealt with mold removal might remember it can and will return if not addressed correctly the first time. Remediation of the mildew, fungus and black mold the first time around can save a home or business owner tons of time and money. It's nothing that should drag on forever. The solution is as simple as allowing a highly trained expert to diagnose the issue and remove the threat at the source.

Mold growth shouldn't have to be anything longer than a short-term problem. In fact, mold removal in the right hands isn't a long-term issue. Experts who know the gravity of the situation can carefully secure any mold damage and provide remediation for mold in home or commercial mold damage victims.

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is a locally-owned franchise with national resources that helps homeowners to overcome mold, water, and fire damage at as little cost and strain as possible. Give us a call at (281) 342-5326.

Dangers Of A Sewer Backup

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

Black water can contain many types of harmful bacteria.

Even if the rest of your building has protections in place to prevent flooding, you need to be certain there are also items in place to prevent sewage from backing up into the building. Even if there does not seem to be much rain water, it only takes a little to wreak havoc within your local sewer systems.

Additionally, contact a professional water removal service to handle a backed-up sewer instead of handling the contaminated water yourself. Sewage damage should only be cleaned by a certified restoration company. 

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is a locally-owned franchise with national resources that helps homeowners to overcome mold, water, and fire damage at as little cost and strain as possible. Give us a call at (281) 342-5326

The Do's & Don'ts After Your House Floods

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Call your local professionals at SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County (281) 342- 5326 and let us make that storm damage "Like it never even happened".

Understanding the 3 Types of Water Losses

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

Water is pooling on the floor at your home in Houston,TX as you search for the cause of the leak. Are all leaks created equal? No, in fact some leaks are far more dangerous than others. Depending on the source, it can be clean water, contaminated water, or somewhere in between. Learn to distinguish the three categories, the sources and the necessary clean up for each type.

Category 1: Clean Water

This type of water is the best case scenario. Generally, it is not hazardous to your health if dealt with quickly.

• Sources of fresh water could include a broken pipe, water heater leak, fractured supply line, overflowed sink/tub, or sprinkler system.
• Water restoration specialists remove the excess water with professional vacuums and pumps. Air movers and dehumidifiers dry the area.

Category 2: Gray Water

Although considered contaminated water, gray water does not typically contain bacteria or viruses that make you sick. Rather, it may contain detergent or bits of dirt.

• This water comes from a problem with the clothes washing machine or dishwasher.
• Similar to clean water, excess water is removed and the area is dried. When dirt is involved, however, the area is cleaned and disinfected as well.

Category 3: Black Water

Black water is the most contaminated and bacteria infested. You can become seriously ill if you ingest it.

• Sewage water is the culprit here, either from a toilet in your home or a backed up exterior sewer line.
• In addition to steps taken with other water types, all porous contents are removed and discarded from your home. This may include items such as drywall and flooring. Disinfectants and air filtration devices are used to properly sanitize the area.

As a homeowner in Houston, TX, dealing with contaminated water in your house can be a time-consuming and stressful situation. With the help of professionals, the category of water type is identified and dealt with accordingly.

Fort Bend County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Fort Bend County.

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (281) 342-5326

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

 Meet Our Crew: SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County Employees

Certifications

• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• SMT - Stone, Masonry and Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Affiliations

• National Wood Floor Association

Faster to your Fort Bend County Water Damage Event

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 –(281) -342 5326

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Does Your Fort Bend County Home Have A Mold Problem?

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

In Fort Bend County,mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (281) 342-5326

Fort Bend County Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County  for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (281) 342-5326

Conditions In Fort Bend County Might Be Right For Mold

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at (281) 342-5326.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County for mold remediation services

When Storms or Floods hit Fort Bend County, SERVPRO is ready!

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Fort Bend County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (281) 342-5326

Tips for Residents Dealing with Storm Damage in Fort Bend County

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Living in Texas we all know just how unpredictable the weather can be! Storm damage can happen at any time and can cause an intense amount of damage to your home or business. Strong winds can cause downed trees and damage to your roof, heavy rains can cause unforeseen flooding. These events can easily create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy in place if you are ever effected by a storm will help you be ready if disaster strikes.

We here at SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County have compiled a list of the next steps to take after incurring any storm related damage.

1. First, Assess the Damage -Immediately cover any broken windows and secure doors. If your roof is leaking, temporary plastic sheeting can be used to prevent even more water damage. You can clear debris that is blocking walkways or driveways but be sure to never touch any downed powerlines.

2. Now it’s Time to Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County!

We are a highly trained Emergency Response / Disaster Recovery team that specializes in Storm Damage Cleanup & Restoration. As a trusted leader in the industry we pride ourselves at having the fastest response time and every minute counts when water is where it shouldn’t be.

3. Next, Notify Your Insurance Company –

Your next step should be to call your insurance agency and let them know the situation. The claims process can be time consuming so be sure not to procrastinate. Most likely you will be assigned a claim number and an adjuster who will be speaking with you in a timely manner to schedule a visit. We work with all insurance providers and make sure there are always open lines of communication on our progress with the drying out process and taking care of your home or business.

If your home or business has been effected by a storm, we here at SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County are always here to help! Our phones are answered 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week just give us a call (281) 342-5326 and we’ll be on our way!

Fort Bend County Smoke and Soot Cleanup

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (281) 342-5326

Restoring Your Fort Bend County Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Fort Bend County commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Did your Important Documents Get Damaged During a Loss?

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Businesses have tons of important documents and vital records that they store on-site. When water or fire damage occurs you can depend on SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County to help restore those important documents.  It is key to bring in professionals as soon as possible to begin the document restoration.  We restore building plans, historical documents, tax records, photographs etc.  In commercial businesses there are  many revolving things that can cause water damage to documents.  Documents that are years old but important and need to be maintained are often kept in the basement of a facility.  These areas are subject to water infiltration, sump pump failures, sewer back ups, mechanical room or line failures. 

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County offers many services to our customers other than the typical Fire & Water Restoration.

If you would like to be proactive and get an emergency plan in place for your business before a disaster strikes call us at (281) 342-5326.

Is Your Business Disaster Ready?

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Give us a call today and let's get prepared!

Preparation is a vital component for making it through a disaster, whether its a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time to plan for these events is well before they happen. No one ever plans a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask your self and fellow employees, "Are you Ready for whatever happens."

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is a startup approach that provides the important information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It was created to help as a quick reference guide of the buildings most important information.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile Advantage:

• A no cost assessment of your facility
  • This means you do not need to appropriate any funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
• A Compact Profile Document that contains only the important information needed in the event of an emergency.
  • It will only take a short time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. Most importantly it will save you a lot of time if ever needed
• A guide to help you get back into your building after a disaster.
  • This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action
• Establishes  SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County a local franchise as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
  • You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader close by.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  • This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
  • Having  quick reference guide provides solutions in the advance of a disaster, so that during a disaster you are "Ready for whatever happens."

                  Call Today to Get Started!

                         (281) 342-5326

Not Just Your Typical Restoration Company!

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

This a tile floor sealing and grout coloring job we did at a restaurant in Sugar Land, TX. Let us bring back life to those old floors!

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County specializes in many other fields rather than Fire and Water Restoration. We pride ourselves as one of the best cleaning companies in the Houston industry.

We offer several services to help your business open its doors on time and look its absolute best.

Post Construction Cleaning

• Once the floors are down and the drywall is up, it's time to remove the debris and dirt in order to lay carpet, paint, and decorate. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County can provide the debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design.

Dehumidification and Drying

• During the construction phase, a building can trap moisture. Excessive moisture can result in mold growth. If you feel that one your projects may have a moisture issue, let us provide the help you need to eliminate the moisture and prevent the potential for mold growth

Final Cleaning

• You want the facility to look its best when the doors open. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County provides cleaning services to give the building that extra shine. Services include:
  • Carpet, resilient floor prep and finish
  • Ceiling, Walls and fixture cleaning
  • Deodorization
  • Air Duct Cleaning
  • Debris Removal
  • Window Cleaning
  • Tile Sealing
  • Grout Coloring

Call today (281) 342-5326 and let SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County make that mess "Like it never even happened."