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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts

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.

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.

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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

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.

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

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.

  1. 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.

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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

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.