Riding the Wave: Navigating the Intricacies of Water Damage Restoration

6/11/2023 (Permalink)

As the minutes roll by, water can seep into the structure of your property, leading to more extensive damage.

The sudden onslaught of water damage can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed. Whether it's caused by natural calamities or plumbing malfunctions, the swift and often unexpected nature of such incidents makes understanding the restoration process incredibly valuable. At SERVPRO, we aim to demystify this process and guide you through the essential steps to reclaiming your property from water damage.

Water damage restoration, as the name suggests, is a process of mitigating and restoring a property that has been subjected to water intrusion or flooding. It's not merely about extracting the visible water but involves an intricate series of steps designed to address both the immediate and long-term effects of water damage.

One of the most pressing concerns in the face of water damage is the ticking clock. As the minutes roll by, water can seep into the structure of your property, leading to more extensive damage. Structural elements like walls and flooring can absorb moisture, leading to weakening over time. Furthermore, the damp environment becomes a fertile breeding ground for mold and mildew, posing additional health risks. It's essential to promptly seek professional help to limit these escalating issues.

A reputable water damage restoration company like SERVPRO employs specialized equipment and techniques to address this damage efficiently. The restoration process begins with an assessment to understand the extent of the damage. Water extraction tools are then used to remove the bulk of the water from your property, after which drying, and dehumidification techniques come into play. These processes help eliminate residual moisture, averting mold growth and further structural damage.

Water damage doesn't just affect your property physically; it can leave behind odors and potential health hazards. That's why professional restoration also involves cleaning and sanitizing the affected areas, ensuring a safe environment for occupants.

The end goal of any water damage restoration process is to return the property to its pre-damage condition. This involves repairing any damages caused by the water and possibly redecorating the space to its former glory.

Choosing a professional for water damage restoration can save you time and potential financial loss, not to mention reducing the risk of health hazards associated with mold growth. By seeking professional help, you're not just salvaging your property; you're reclaiming your peace of mind.

The devastation of water damage can be immense, but understanding the restoration process can turn the tide in your favor. Remember, the sooner you act, the better your chances of mitigating the damage and reclaiming your property. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to navigate the stormy seas of water damage restoration.

A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Fire Damage Restoration

6/11/2023 (Permalink)

A glimpse into the aftermath of a kitchen fire

Experiencing a house fire can be a devastating event, leaving behind substantial damage long after the flames are doused. The remnants of fire, namely soot and smoke, can continue to harm your property if not promptly addressed. This blog post aims to provide an insightful guide on fire damage restoration, helping you better comprehend the process involved in restoring your home back to a safe and habitable state.

Imagine this scenario: the fire trucks depart, leaving behind a property filled with the scars of fire and smoke damage, as well as the aftermath of water damage from firefighting efforts. It's a daunting scene. However, understanding the fire damage restoration process can provide some comfort during this stressful time.

Each fire damage situation is distinct, and while the process might be adjusted based on the severity of the fire, the fundamental steps remain consistent:

• Emergency Contact: The restoration process begins as soon as you reach out to a professional restoration company. Your call initiates a quick response to limit further damage to your property.
• Inspection and Assessment: The damage assessment involves a careful examination of the affected areas to understand the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This forms the foundation for devising an appropriate restoration strategy.
• Property Securing: Professionals take immediate measures to prevent additional damage, such as boarding up missing windows, covering damaged roofs, and reinforcing compromised walls. This ensures that the property is safeguarded and secure.
• Water Removal (if applicable): If water damage has occurred due to the firefighting efforts, a water extraction process is initiated. This involves removing most of the water, followed by the use of dehumidifiers and air movers to thoroughly dry the area.
• Smoke and Soot Removal: Smoke and soot residues can cause extensive damage if left untreated. Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to effectively clean these residues from various surfaces.
• Cleaning and Sanitizing: This stage involves restoring your personal belongings to their pre-fire condition using a range of cleaning techniques. Odors are also neutralized using air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
• Restoration: The final stage of the process can range from minor repairs like replacing drywall and painting, to larger tasks like installing new carpeting or full-scale room reconstruction.

Post-fire, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Be mindful of potential hazards, such as electrical issues and slip risks, and only undertake activities that are safe.

With the support of professional fire damage restoration services, you can navigate the challenging post-fire period more smoothly, steadily working towards making your home or business feel like it never even happened!

Understanding the Intricacies of Commercial Mold Remediation

6/11/2023 (Permalink)

Welcome to the world of mold

Have you ever caught a whiff of a musty scent in your commercial property and wondered where it could be coming from? Welcome to the world of mold – an intricate, invisible, yet essential subject that affects building. This blog post aims to unravel the complexities of mold remediation, drawing from real-world experiences of locally-owned businesses in our community.

 Let’s start with the basics: What is mold? Mold consists of microscopic spores that float in our environment, both indoors and outdoors. They enter buildings through open windows, doors, and HVAC systems, and can even be carried in on clothing or pets. Despite their seemingly innocuous nature, these spores can rapidly evolve into a major problem when exposed to moisture.

 The story gets more complicated when you consider the various factors that affect mold growth. These include the amount of water present, the frequency of the water source, the type of food source (substrate), the water affinity of the substrate, and the temperature range. As conditions change, different species of mold can colonize, with each presenting unique challenges for remediation.

 So, what happens when a commercial building or home encounters a mold issue? The remediation process goes beyond merely cleaning visible mold patches. It begins with the identification and repair of the water source causing the mold, otherwise, mold will simply return. Utilizing moisture meters, experts can pinpoint the precise location of dampness fueling the mold growth.

Subsequently, professionals must navigate the painstaking process of containment, cleaning, treatment, and removal of mold. This involves specialty equipment such as high-quality HVAC filters for capturing mold spores and humidity gauges to monitor indoor humidity. An experienced team will be trained in these techniques, transforming contaminated buildings into safe, habitable spaces.

 Prevention, as in many things, is better than cure. Regulating indoor humidity levels (ideally within 30%-50%) can help inhibit mold growth. It's also vital to have an action plan ready should a mold problem arise. That's where an Emergency Ready Plan comes into play. This is a strategic response plan that allows businesses to minimize disruptions and resume operations as quickly as possible following a mold outbreak.

 In the end, understanding and addressing mold hazards is a complex task requiring specialized knowledge and a proactive approach. But with awareness and effective planning, businesses can effectively manage and mitigate these risks. Stay informed, stay prepared, and most importantly, stay safe.

Understanding Fire Damage Restoration: A Comprehensive Guide

6/11/2023 (Permalink)

This image captures the aftermath of a devastating fire. But expert restoration, homes can be rebuilt and lives be pieced back together.

Experiencing a fire incident can be a traumatizing event. The aftermath often leaves behind a trail of destruction, with the severity extending beyond the visible charred structures.

Fire damage, coupled with smoke and soot, can gradually deteriorate your property. To navigate this challenging period, understanding the fire restoration procedure can offer much-needed peace of mind and insight into what the recovery journey entails.

Fire restoration services are specialized procedures offered by trained experts to recover and restore properties damaged by fire. A professional fire restoration procedure involves several stages, starting with an emergency call. Fire damage is time-sensitive, every minute counts. A prompt response mitigates ongoing damage and aids in salvaging as much as possible.

The second stage involves a comprehensive fire damage assessment. Experts conduct a detailed inspection to gauge the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This evaluation may also identify any accompanying water damage due to firefighting efforts. A thorough understanding of the damage's scope helps formulate an effective restoration strategy tailored to the situation at hand.

Securing the property is another crucial step in fire restoration. This can involve board-up and roof-tarp services to protect the property from external elements and potential unauthorized entry. Windows, walls, or roofs damaged in a fire need immediate attention to ensure the property's integrity and safety.

The cleanup process is the most extensive stage of restoration. Professionals use specialty equipment for fire damage cleanup to remove smoke and soot from all surfaces. Various cleaning techniques restore belongings to pre-fire conditions as much as possible, and industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment help eliminate odors. In some cases, water damage restoration might be needed if substantial water was used in firefighting efforts.

The final step in the fire restoration procedure is restoration and repairs. This could range from minor tasks like replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, to significant ones like reconstructing damaged rooms.

Fire incidents are daunting, but with understanding and preparation, recovery can be a systematic process. Relying on fire & smoke restoration contractors ensures professional handling of your situation and peace of mind during the process. Remember, as challenging as the experience might be, fire damage does not mark the end of your property's story; it's just a hurdle to overcome.

The Top 5 Causes of Commercial Water Damage

6/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City is a one-stop shop for all your mitigation or restoration needs.

Water damage in the workplace isn’t just an inconvenience – it can be dangerous for months after the damage occurs. It’s crucial to act quickly to mitigate commercial water damage and prevent expensive secondary damages by keeping an eye on vulnerable spots in your business. There are several common causes of commercial water damage, and it’s important that you know how to spot them and what to do to fix them if there’s a problem.

Damaged or Broken Pipes Is a Top Cause Commercial Water Damage

One of the leading causes of commercial water damage is broken or damaged water pipes. Several conditions can damage pipes in your building, causing them to burst. While freezing temperatures are rare in our area, they can change the pressure in your pipes, causing them to bulge, crack, or burst. They can also be corroded over time or damaged by human error.You can spot commercial water damage caused by damaged pipes by watching out for water stains on your building’s walls, ceilings, or floors. If you see water stains, notice a mildew-like smell, or see cracked or loose tiles, you should call a professional to find and mitigate the problem. Any water-damaged materials will have to be assessed and either restored or removed.

Sprinkler System Leaks Cause Water Damage

Another cause of commercial water damage revolves around your sprinkler system. A sprinkler system can be damaged by extreme temperatures, corrosion, and mechanical damage. If your indoor sprinkler system is acting up, it can lead to leaks and water damage. Like damaged or broken pipes, you should look out for wet walls, a musty smell, or standing water inside your building. You may also notice ceiling tiles that are brown and discolored; this also indicates a problem with your sprinkler system. To avoid water damage caused by broken sprinkler systems, get a professional to inspect your sprinkler system often for potential problems.

Roof Damage is a Top Cause of Commercial Water Damage 

We  are no strangers to heavy wind and rain, two main causes of roof damage. When your roof is missing tiles, water may leak into the building, causing commercial water damage. This can lead to structural damage, ruin items inside your building, and mold issues. Make sure to regularly check your roof for signs of damage and provide maintenance as needed. If your roof maintains damage after a storm, it is advised to immediately contact SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City for water damage restoration. Mold can grow in as little as 24 hours. Immediate inspection and water damage remediation will cost far less than water damage restoration paired with mold remediation. Not to mention the additional time it will take and the displacement of all your employees during remediation. If roof damages cause commercial water damage, contact us immediately.

Damaged HVAC System Can Cause Commercial Water Damage

It’s important to maintain your commercial HVAC system and keep it clean to keep your building free from commercial water damage. With time, HVAC systems can wear out or get damaged, leading to water leakage. To avoid this cause of commercial water damage, get a professional to clean and maintain your HVAC systems on a regular basis.

Faulty or Broken Windows Cause Water Damage

Another common cause of commercial water damage is damaged windows or window seals. Damaged windows or unsealed windows let water get into the building. If left unresolved, the excess moisture will lead to mold, damaged building materials, and more water damage. Make sure that your commercial building’s windows are sealed and in working condition. To go one step further, ensure that caulking is reapplied every few years to avoid commercial water damage.

If you suspect that your business has fallen victim to one of these causes of commercial water damage, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City. Our professional team of water damage experts can quickly and safely fix all commercial water damage and perform mold remediation if necessary.

Tips for Avoiding Water Damage in Your Home This Summer

5/31/2023 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes your home

It doesn’t matter how big or small your property is, water damage is always incredibly damaging. Even if it feels warmer and drier, one thing to bear in mind during the summer season is water damage. Irrigation systems, summer storms, and a range of other factors can all pose potential hazards to your home. You can prevent more significant damage by taking measures and being aware of the main signs of damage. To learn more click the link below.

There are several signs of water damage all around the house that you should always be familiar with:

• Discoloration. Water damage can be identified by streaks of water that are running down the side of your house.
• Mold. Of course, mold can begin with a minor patch, which does not always imply water damage repair. However, you must act quickly before the problem worsens, especially because mold could also cause health problems.
• Water puddles or pools.  If there is leaking or water is dripping, pools of water are frequently left.
• Smell. Moisture has a distinct odor, which is frequently combined with the musky odor of mold.
• Sound. Water damage will not always be visible, but it can certainly be heard, from dripping to rushing water.

Now that you’re aware of several of the signs of flood damage, let’s look into some of the preventative measures you can take.

1. Inspect for water leakage in your house. There is really only one place to start, and that is by constantly checking for leaks. If you detect leaks faster, you can have them patched before they become larger issues.
2. Clear out your gutters. You should clean your gutter systems on a frequent basis. A clogged gutter will send waves of water down the sides of your building, ruining your foundation as well as siding.
3. Check to see if your yard is sloped. The yard should always slope at least 7 inches away from your property’s foundation. This is critical because it keeps water from getting close to your base, where it would cause leakages, fracture the walls, or start causing the walls to lean.
4. If you are going on vacation, secure your property. If you plan to go on a summer vacation, you should seal up your property. The last thing anyone wants to discover while on a getaway is that a pipe has erupted and your living space has been ruined. Consider switching off the main supply shut-off valve and making sure all of your window panes, doors, as well as attic are tightly sealed.

Water damage requires immediate attention. If you discover any indications of flood damage, you should contact SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City quickly in order to make sure that the issue does not worsen. Our specialists will arrive with the knowledge and equipment necessary to restore your property as safely and quickly as possible.

Ten Electrical Safety Tips for Every Home

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

If your home has had a fire, it is important that you don't use electronics that were close to the blaze.

In this modern world, electricity currents are coursing all around us in our homes, helping us accomplish our daily activities. But remember that electricity still poses a possible danger to your home. Avoid accidentally causing a fire with these electrical safety tips.

Keep Your Electrical System Up-to-Date

If you’re in an older home with outdated wiring, you need to contact an electrical professional to take a look at the state of your home’s wiring. Over time, elements of your wiring may have degraded or been damaged. Older wiring also may not be able to provide the power needed to keep all of your technology and appliances running. The amount of energy is greater per each appliance today than the items they used 20 or 50 years ago. Getting it checked out and upgraded if needed will keep your home safe. 

Use Appliances with Caution

Make sure you’re using appliances or items with electrical connections correctly. This means keeping appliances away from water and moisture. Another tip is to give your technology that generates internal heat space to breathe. This will allow air to circulate properly and keep the appliance or device from overheating.

Regularly Check your Electrical Cords 

It’s a good safety measure to regularly check the most frequently used electrical cords in your home. Check them for frays and cracks; these can leave holes for electricity to run through and harm anything it touches. If you do discover frays and cracks, stop using that cord and get a replacement. Don’t cover cords with fabric material such as a rug or modify cords yourself. If you believe that your cords are damaged, ask a professional to take a look. To make your cords last longer, unplug them by grabbing at the base of the plug instead of yanking it out of the wall by the cord section.

Avoid Overloading Outlets

Overloading an outlet is one of the most common causes of a house fire. Don’t try to put too many plugs into one outlet. If you require more outlets than your power strip can handle, then it’s time to look into getting more outlets installed in your home.

Warm Outlets? Beware

A glaring sign of an electrical issue in your home is a warm or hot outlet. Warmth or sparking from an outlet often means that electricity is arcing inside. Using outlets like this puts your home at risk of a fire. Call an electrical professional to fix the problem.

Don’t Ignore Frequently Flickering Lights

It’s typical for lights to flicker every once in a while. But if the lights throughout your house are constantly flickering, then it’s a possible sign that your home’s wiring system can’t handle the amount of power used daily. There may be too many connections on a single circuit, or you may need to replace your electrical panel.

Block Unused Outlets

If you have small children living in your home, then we suggest you block any unused outlets for their safety. The last thing that needs to happen is an accident because a child was unknowingly playing with an outlet. Cover unused outlets with a solid plate or plug them up with safe plug covers.

Ground Older Appliances

Grounding means that electrical energy is being directed from the appliance to the earth with a resistant conductor. Check to see if your appliance is grounded properly, if not, it can pose a safety threat. If you have older or large appliances with a two-prong plug, you should replace them with a new version that has the ground prong for your safety.

Be Familiar with Your Breakers 

You should be familiar with the electrical breakers in every home you live in. If you notice your breakers tripping frequently, then it may mean that you’re overloading a circuit. You need to reconfigure your appliances or update your wiring system to prevent this from continuing or turning into a bigger safety hazard.

Do You Have Fire Damage? Contact SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City

If you’ve experienced fire damage, small or big, in your home due to an electrical fire, call SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City. Our team will restore your home as quickly as possible with structural restoration, cleaning, and deodorization so you can get back to taking care of your family. Reach out to us today to assess the damage.

Understanding the Difference Between Water Extraction and Water Mitigation

5/15/2023 (Permalink)

Whether it's cleaning, restoration, or construction, SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City is a one-stop shop for all your mitigation or restoration needs

SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City water extraction services are designed for significant events like natural disasters, roof leaks, burst pipes, drainage problems, sewage backups, and whatever devastating situation could result in water damage in your home. This process ultimately removes all the visible water, speeding up the drying process and preventing the risk of further structural damage. Water mitigation, on the other hand, is more of a professional cleanup done after the water extraction process. Water mitigation cleans, sanitizes, and dries out the property. This swift action minimizes water damage by removing unsalvageable contents, disinfecting, and removing nasty smells, as well as thoroughly drying the building structure.

The difference between the two processes is the order in which they come in and the role they play in water damage restoration. Water extraction comes first, followed by the water mitigation process.

Even the smallest amount of water can be destructive, which is why it is important that water extraction be carried out first. In contrast, water mitigation stabilizes the property, keeping its integrity intact and making it fully dry for repairs to take place.

Why Are Water Extraction and Water Mitigation Necessary?

Water mitigation and extraction stop further water harm to a structure. Both entail removing water while maintaining the structural integrity of the building. If not handled properly, water infiltration can seriously harm a building’s structural elements, such as the foundation, walls, and flooring.

For this reason, both water extraction and water mitigation are important. They both support building safety and guard against health and financial risks brought on by water damage.

Contact SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City Today

After experiencing water damage, your priority should be contacting SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City for water extraction services.Our team of expert technicians works effectively to restore homes and buildings affected by water damage to pre loss conditions. 

How To Restore Your Home After A Natural Disaster

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma C is Here to Help, even on weekends. Our team of experts is on call 24/7 to respond to any emergency, no matter the size.

It’s been a tough year for everyone, and natural disasters have taken a toll on many homes. If your home has been affected by a severe storms, tornado, or another disaster, you may be wondering how to restore it to its former glory. Luckily, there are some SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City steps you can take to get your home back in shape. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips on how to restore your home after a natural disaster. Whether you’re dealing with water damage, wind damage, or something else, these tips will help you get your home back to normal. So if you’re ready to start the restoration process, read on!

The first step is to assess the damage. Take a look around your home and make a list of all the damaged items. Once you have a list, you can start to prioritize which repairs need to be made first. If there is structural damage, this should be your first priority. Structural damage is any damage that affects the load-bearing components of a home, such as the foundation, walls, ceilings, and/or roof. This type of damage can make a home unsafe to live in and can be very costly to repair.

In addition, if there is water damage, you will need to dry out your home and remove any mold or mildew that has formed. Water can enter your home through holes or cracks in the foundation, windows, or doors; through the roof; or from rising floodwaters. Once inside, water can damage floors, walls, furniture, and personal belongings. It can also lead to mold growth, which can pose serious health risks.

Once you have assessed the damage, it’s time to start cleaning up. First, make a plan of action. Write down what needs to be done and in what order. This will help you stay organized and avoid overlooking any important tasks. Then start with the basics. Begin by cleaning up any debris that may be inside or outside your home. This includes broken glass, downed tree limbs, etc. Finally, move on to bigger tasks next. If there is water damage, start by drying out the affected areas. Then, you can begin to repair any damage that has been done.

After you have cleaned up the debris and repaired any damage, it’s time to start thinking about prevention. Take a look at your home and identify any areas that are vulnerable to future disasters. Make sure you have strong doors and windows and consider installing storm shutters or hurricane straps. For example, storm shutters are one of the most important things you can do to protect your home from damage during a severe storm. They can be made from a variety of materials, but the most common type is metal. Taking these precautions will help you avoid future damage and make your home safer in the event of another disaster.

Restoring your home after a natural disaster can be daunting, but it is possible with the help of SERVPRO® Of Central Oklahoma City. We have years of experience helping homeowners recover from storms, floods, and fires. Contact us today, and we will get started on restoring your home to its original condition.

SERVPRO® Contents Management & Pack-Out Services

4/24/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® Contents Management & Pack-Out Services

SERVPRO® Of Central Oklahoma City provides contents storage and pack out for your property’s items while it undergoes our restoration services! The restoration process can take some time and leave certain items open to further damage while we administer our services. After damage has occurred to your property, the restoration process can seem challenging and there are many things to consider. Our contents storage and pack out services can assist in removing valuable items, household goods, furniture, and other personal possessions out of danger and in the safety of a controlled environment. While we are able to restore your property back to a state of normalcy over time, the risk posed to valuables still exists as we do our work. SERVPRO® Of Central Oklahoma City is happy to extend this service to our restoration clients. While we believe these services will provide customers with a lot of relief, we understand how these services may not be familiar with them. We would like to go over our pack-out and contents management services to showcase how they can help you!

What is Contents Storage? Contents storage and pack-out services can be utilized after your property has received damage from numerous events. Whether your property has experienced damage caused by fire, water, mold, or natural disasters, our technicians can assist you in returning your property back to a state of normalcy! While we administer our restoration services, some contents may need to be packed up and placed in a safe, controlled environment. That is exactly what our contents storage service does, it allows us to ensure your items are safe from further damages. With these pack-out services, we can help protect the following items:

• Draperies, clothing, linens, and other textiles
• Leather items
• Furniture
• Electronics
• Important paper documents
• Artwork

These items can be easily damaged by events such as increased moisture at your property. Some of them may fall victim to mold colonies if an outbreak is present. Whether the item is one of the materials listed above or not, we can assist. We understand how certain heirlooms or items can hold sentimental value and we want to help preserve that memory with our contents storage. Why is Contents Storage So Important?Imagine your home or property after a flood or fire damages are sustained. The likelihood of you comfortably returning to your property in a short period of time is unlikely. These damages are extensive and can uproot your entire life and force you into a temporary location for days, weeks, or even months depending on the damage. While the restoration and remediation processes are being administered, there are times of absence. If your property is damaged with water, the damages can linger while the dry-out process occurs and could possibly affect other materials. In cases of fire damage, smoke damage can pose a threat to unaffected materials as well. Our pack-out and contents storage allow for that possibility to be removed. We place your items in our safe, controlled facility to help prevent unaffected items from being damaged. We can also place lightly damaged items in our contents storage as well to prevent further deterioration of the item.Pack-Out & Contents Storage Our pack-out services mean we will assist in the packing process of your property. These services are tailored to assist you in protecting items that escaped damage after the initial damages. First, we take a detailed inventory of the items that we will be storing in our contents storage and stored in our controlled facility. You can rest assured in knowing that your items are safely kept in a controller environment. SERVPRO® Of Central Oklahoma City provides restoration services for water damage, fire damage, and mold remediation. Our goal with this added service of pack-out and contents storage is to help provide you relief when you need it the most. You shouldn’t have to worry about unaffected items at your property getting damaged after the event, an unfortunate reality in certain cases.