Why Choose SERVPRO

3/8/2024 (Permalink)

floor drying equipment for flooring.

When a water emergency happens inside your home or business, SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City can help. Using our specialized equipment and time-tested processes, we can quickly and safely extract water from inside your homes or business no matter the flooring type and then follow that up by providing the needed drying equipment and reconstructing any affected areas. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a broken appliance, or the weather, we've got your back and that's why you should choose SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City for your needed water mitigation needs. 

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. 

Benefits Of Hiring A Water Damage Restoration Company

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration.

Water Damage Restoration is a process that helps to return your home or business to its preloss state. This includes cleaning up and sanitizing the affected area. It also involves restoring structural stability and repairing water damaged materials.

Water damage restoration is usually not something that a homeowner can perform on their own. Unless you have the right equipment and tools, you could end up putting yourself and your property at risk. Using SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City will ensure that all areas are cleaned and restored to a state of health. In addition, you may be able to avoid mold if you have an effective drying plan in place.

Mold growth is a problem that can occur in homes with standing water. Bacteria can thrive in damp areas, and people and pets may become sick. When you have a leak, it is a good idea to have it taken care of as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City can use ozone generators to kill off existing mold spores and disinfect the affected areas.

A good water damage restoration service will be able to identify any hidden problems. For example, a stain on the top of your home could indicate a leaky roof or faulty plumbing. To minimize further damage, you may want to install additional ventilation in the affected areas. You can also install paints that are water-resistant.

SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City will likely need to remove any building materials that are not salvageable, as they can contribute to future problems. During the restoration process, we may also use antimicrobials to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Performing a water restoration project requires extensive knowledge of construction. You should also be aware of your insurance coverage. Some homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover the costs of a water restoration project. But, a proper assessment will be able to help you decide if you need to file a claim.

Another benefit of having SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City is that they will be able to identify and eliminate any hidden moisture problems that can harm you and your property. They can also repair and replace any damaged materials, as well as disinfecting the affected areas.

Having a proper water restoration plan in place will prevent you from dealing with the same issue again. Once you have a proper plan in place, you will be able to dry out your property quickly. Depending on the amount of water involved, you may be able to remove some items yourself.

Standard Homeowners Insurance Coverage

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

Homeowners Insurance Policy

A standard homeowners insurance policy provides coverage to repair or replace your home and its contents in the event of damage. That usually includes damage resulting from fire, smoke, theft or vandalism, or damage caused by a weather event such as lightning, wind, or hail. Other covered damage could come from external forces like a falling tree.

That coverage includes your heating and cooling systems, along with kitchen appliances, furniture, clothing, and other possessions. Coverage for outbuildings on your property, such as a garage, barn, or shed, along with outdoor grills or fireplaces, swing sets, walls, or fences is also included. A swimming pool or other recreational equipment may also be covered, but those higher-risk items may require additional liability coverage.

In addition, you’re typically covered for living expenses if you need to find alternate lodging while your home is rebuilt. Liability coverage is typically included as well. That means you’ll be reimbursed for medical expenses and legal fees if people that are not living in your home are injured on your property.

SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City understand the details of your policy, and how much coverage you can expect in the event of a claim. Some lenders only require sufficient homeowners insurance coverage to pay off your mortgage, but in most cases that will not be nearly enough to rebuild your home and replace everything in it.

It’s also important to consider that rebuilding costs may increase. Improvements or additions to made to your home, increased labor or material costs, and changes to zoning requirements might require more coverage.

For all these reasons, you may want to consider a replacement cost homeowners insurance policy rather than an actual cash value policy. The former provides coverage to make repairs or replace your home and its contents at current costs. A cash value policy factors in depreciation due to age, wear and tear, and other factors.

As an example, let’s say a falling tree damages your roof, which was last replaced 10 years ago. A replacement cost policy will pay to replace the roof at today’s cost for labor and materials. An actual cash value policy will deduct 10 years of depreciation. The same logic applies to your furnace, washing machine, and other possessions. Replacement cost is more expensive, but industry experts say it is worth the added cost.

“Know the difference between an actual cash value policy and a replacement cost policy,” says Lynne McChristian of the Insurance Information Institute (III), “The former pays the depreciated cost, so you get less at claim time. With replacement cost, you may pay 10 to15% more for coverage, yet you get much more when you file a claim.”

To estimate how much homeowners insurance coverage you need, multiply the square footage of the home by the local building costs per square foot in your area. For example, if your home is 2,200 square feet and local building costs average $80 per square foot, the cost to rebuild your home would be about $176,000. A local insurance agent should be able to help determine costs in your area. You’ll calculate costs the same way for any outbuildings.

Next, take an inventory of all your possessions with an estimated value. Take photos or videos to provide a visual record. Make a note of where and when you purchased things on your inventory, especially big-ticket items. This will not only provide a record, it will also help determine how much coverage you need, and what items might require additional coverage.

According to the III, most homeowners insurance policies typically cover your belongings at a rate of about 50% to 70% of what your home is insured for. Meaning that if your home is insured for $400,000, you can expect to be reimbursed for somewhere around $200,000 to $280,000 for your furniture, clothing, and other possessions. If your inventory determines that isn’t sufficient for your needs, consider additional coverage.

Crime Scene Clean Up

1/26/2023 (Permalink)

A crime scene being zoned off for SERVPRO bio hazard crew

Crime scene cleanup isn't something anyone wants to think about and hopefully never experiences.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations. If a crime scene clean up or suicide clean up is needed, Our team will be discreet and work with you on your needs. Currently, we work with several local police departments for their crime scene clean ups and bio-hazard needs. SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City understands that when tragedy happens, it is unexpected and the goal is t o get you back in your home as quickly as you are ready. 

WHY SERVPRO? COMMERCIAL INDUSTRY SERVICES

9/29/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial skyscraper buildings

WHY SERVPRO? Whether you own a commercial building or manage many commercial buildings, they present unique challenges when something goes wrong. Proper maintenance can prevent little problems from becoming large-scale problems. If they do, SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City is ready to help make it “Like it never even happened.” And while we are available 24/7 for your repair and restoration needs, we’ve compiled three tips from professionals across the industry that can prevent your commercial building structure from incurring a major loss:

1. Maintain your roofing structure. Fixing leaks as soon as they arise instead of putting them off to deal with later will significantly decrease your chances for a major loss. Whether the issue is minor or major may only be detectable by professionals. Either way, it’s imperative to address the problem sooner rather than later.
2. Regularly check your fire control system. Whether it’s a communication line in your system that has gone down or fire suppression sprinklers aren’t working, your fire control system should be checked regularly to make sure it’s functioning properly. Responsible action and routine maintenance check can prevent significant damage to your building structure.
3. Schedule regular HVAC maintenance. Commercial HVAC systems differ significantly from home HVAC systems. Which means they are significantly more complicated and usually require professional assistance. Proper planning and scheduling routine professional exams will allow parts to be replaced when needed, as well as checking for any major faults.

As you can see, the old adage ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’ definitely applies to your commercial building structures. However, even with regularly scheduled maintenance and quick action on the part of the building manager, things can go awry. SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City has professionals that will answer your call immediately and begin taking actions to limit the damage. Our trustworthy and confident staff will develop a plan, move quickly, and execute flawlessly. We are a leader in the restoration industry, and our professionals are faster to disaster any size.

Ownership

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

one team franchise

Why SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City? Each SERVPRO® is independently owned and operated. SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City is family owned, from the owners to their daughter and son in law working in the business to continue to provide the care and family environment. Not only do the google reviews speak values about our team and location but SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma city is one big family along with being one team. Keep in mind when you chose your next restoration company just from the name of them, reach out to SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City for your next mitigation restoration needs from a one team foundation who truly cares about helping and serving others.

Generator Safety Tips

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

Emergency weather events make the use of generators more common. Be sure to stay safe when operating a generator.

If you have a generator on hand for power outages during severe weather, follow the safety tips below provided by the American Red Cross.

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space, or any partially enclosed area.
• To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use it in wet conditions. Operate it on a dry surface under an open canopylike structure, such as under a tarp held up on poles. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
• Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the home. Although CO can’t be seen or smelled, it can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and death. Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately.
• Install CO alarms in central locations on every level of your home or property and outside sleeping areas to provide early warnings.

Affordable Payment Options Today

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you need financing, we've got options.

At SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City, we know we show up after a major unexpected event in your life. We also know that insurance doesn’t always cover a high deductible and sometimes may not cover a loss at all. However, the process of mitigation, repair, and restoration must continue. That’s why it’s important to have financing options available to you in your time of need. The financing process is straightforward, easy, and most of all quick! Here are some quick facts to help you make the right decision for your home:

• Check rates in less than 2 minutes
• Fixed monthly payments
• Loans typically funded in 1-5 days
• No prepayment penalties
• Zero equity required
• Fixed rates and terms

We have affordable payment options for any home improvement project!

APPLY NOW:

https://app.gethearth.com/partners/SERVPRO-of-denton/julio/apply

or

CONTACT HEARTH DIRECTLY:

• (512) 686-4141
• support@gethearth.com

Properly Prepare for Seasonal Travel

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

If you will be traveling this holiday season, SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City recommends to leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure a warm enough temperature inside to help prevent freezing pipes. But what about the trip itself? When you hear the phrase “emergency kit,” do you think of a first aid kit? A collection of supplies nestled in a closet somewhere, just in case they are needed? What about an emergency kit for your vehicle? Do you have one? Do you know what to put in one, should you decide to make one?

The NSC (National Safety Council) recommends including:

• Nonperishable, high-energy foods
• Drinking water
• Reflective vest in case you need to walk to get help
• Car cell phone charger
• Jumper cables
• Fire extinguisher
• Duct tape
• Rain poncho
• Compass
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Cold weather items: snow brush, shovel, windshield washer fluid, warm clothing, cat litter for traction • A properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench, and tripod jack
• A Tool kit and/or multipurpose utility tool
• Reflective triangles and brightly colored cloth to make your vehicle more visible
• First aid kit with gauze, tape, bandages, antibiotic ointment, aspirin, a blanket, non-latex gloves, scissors, hydrocortisone, thermometer, tweezers, and instant cold compress

Do consider what you might need and assess what you should add or remove, depending on your destination, weather conditions, or the duration of your trip. You should check your emergency kit at least every six months, and restock items that you use or that have expired.

Why You Need Professional Cleaning After Fire Damage

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

Restoration and cleanup from even the smallest fire is no simple chore, which is why our experts are trained to make it "Like it never even happened."

After a fire happens, the first thing you want to do is get your household back to normal as soon as possible. It’s tempting to think small fires have little impact and can easily be cleaned up or restored. 

However, it’s necessary to understand that even the smallest fires can have the worst impact. Not only that, but fire restoration and cleanup is nothing like weekly household chores. It takes a lot of time, effort, equipment, training and knowledge to be able to safely clean your house after fire damage. 

This is why it’s crucial to call a professional cleaning service after a fire has damaged your home. Yes, there may be some things you can do on your own to mitigate the damage but it’s always best to phone a professional first so you don’t put your household at more risk.

After a fire happens, there is a lot more damage than meets the eye. Your house may have water damage as well from firefighters putting out the fire, which can lead to mold and other health hazards. Fire damage also almost always means there will be smoke and soot damage, which can have long-term effects on your health if not resolved properly.

Smoke and soot can settle in your home in the most unlikely of places and leave a lot of items within your property unsalvageable. If not cleaned immediately, they can even cause more damage, sometimes permanently. Burned debris can release harsh chemicals damaging your lungs and if ash comes into contact with your skin, it can irritate you.

Some of these health effects may not even show up immediately but can take a few months or years to make a difference if your house isn’t cleaned properly.

Ultimately, attempting to clean your house after a fire on your own exposes yourself to danger, especially if you don’t have the right attire or equipment.The common vacuum cleaner won’t filter out small particles but instead blow them into the air where they can be breathed in, and store-bought odor eliminators may only work temporarily and smoke will probably return.

Luckily, you don’t have to go through this cleaning process alone. Professional cleaning services like SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City want to put you and your household’s safety first, and we have the means to do so.

We have smoke deodorizers that actually target the smoke and soot to specifically eliminate them from hidden places. We are trained to do this, and we have the time and resources to help you properly clean and restore your property.

Our goal is to assess the damage, secure the building from other elements and people, and improve your home’s air quality and ventilation so your life can get back to normal. 

Customer Communication and Why It Matters

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Communication is vital when tackling restoration projects, and we want to help you help us.

At SERVPRO® of Central Oklahoma City, we value communication both on our end as well as the customer’s side. Without clearly communicating the problem, we will not be able to find an effective solution. 

That’s why we hope to provide you with some tips on how to best take advantage of communication:

• Call immediately. The longer you wait with water, fire or mold damage, the worse the situation will become. That’s why it’s best to act as soon as you notice something wrong in your household. Luckily, our emergency services are open 24/7, ready to answer any burning questions and rush to your side for assistance in any area.

• Be ready for questions. When you call our emergency services, our professionals will ask you questions, which will help us figure out what equipment or resources will be necessary to bring as well as how many trained experts will be needed at the site. In preparing for these questions, think of the typical Who, What, When, Where and How prompts — who are you (your name and contact information), what happened (present the issue or problem), when did it happen (if you can provide the time the issue occurred), where it happened (the home address where the damage occurred), and how it happened (if you know the cause, provide it).

• Provide essential information. Our professionals may also ask you about your insurance plan and everything it covers. Make sure to have that information on hand as well as let them know if there will be electricity on site.

• Be as detailed as possible. The more information we have, the better we can help and provide effective services. Before we arrive, provide all necessary information so we know what we’re getting into. During the visit, feel free to guide us around and provide more contextual information.

• Follow up if necessary. If another issue arises after we finish our restoration process, make sure to immediately contact us so we can return and figure out what went wrong. Our goal is to make life easier for you.

• Give feedback. Nobody wants to take the post-service survey or leave a review because it takes time, but it helps both us and potential customers in the future. Giving feedback lets us know what we could improve on and affirms services and processes that we should continue for our company.

You’ve heard it tons of times, but communication truly is key. Without it, we would never know how to effectively provide quality services to our customers and connect with them in a way that matters.

Cleaning the Mess You Can’t See

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO experts are trained to tackle any mess, including the ones you might not be able to see.

You take pride in your home or commercial property, and work hard to keep it safe, clean, and comfortable. But what about the messes that might be hidden to the untrained eye; things like dirt and dust beneath the surface, or mold that can create foul odors and deteriorate the condition of your property?

That’s where SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City comes into play. We’re not just experts in restoration, but in cleaning and mold removal as well. Take a look at a few ways our experts can help you maintain a cleaner home, be it with a visit from our team or just a few pointers you can use around the house.

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

Our team attacks dirt and dust beneath the surface of your carpeting or upholstery with top-of-the-line equipment and industry leading expertise. The difference a clean carpet, or clean upholstery, can make in your home is noticeable. If you think the color in your carpet is beginning to fade, give us a call to bring your home back to life!

Air Duct Cleaning

For homeowners, “cleaning the air ducts” is a chore that often goes forgotten. As the old saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind.” But keeping your air ducts clean is vitally important for a number of reasons. Not only can it keep dust and other allergens from spreading throughout your home, but it can improve the heating and cooling efficiency of your home if air is flowing through clean ducts.

Remember to regularly run a feather duster along your ducts, and to change your air filters as often as is necessary; most homes need a change every 90 days, but some homes with pets can require a change as often as once every 30 days.

Odor Removal

Most cleaning services can’t top SERVPRO’s expertise in effectively deodorizing your home. Our residential cleaning services can rid your home of unwanted odors coming from sources you might not even be able to see.

Commercial Cleaning Services

If most of this blog sounds like it is written specifically for homeowners, rest assured that SERVPRO experts are trained to tackle commercial cleaning as well. Normal wear and tear in your workspace is normal, and sometimes it can pile up beyond the scope of your janitorial service.

When this happens, give SERVPRO a call and our specialists will head right over. We can handle cleaning jobs, odor problems, and more, so you know your workspace will look its very best.

How We Become Experts

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

The Training House at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility gives our specialists a chance to apply what they've learned.

We don’t call our SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City restoration professionals things like “specialists” and “experts” for nothing. And they certainly don’t get to be that way overnight.

So what exactly does go into training the experts who time and time again uphold our promises of being faster to any disaster and making your restoration project look "Like it never even happened."

The Certifications

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification: The IICRC sets the bar for the entire cleaning and restoration industries, and it’s our priority to not only meet but exceed those standards. Our specialists take to heart the IICRC’s best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and more.

Employee Certification Training: Our program is designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. It includes SERVPRO crew training and additional training in fire and water restoration and carpet and upholstery cleaning.

The Training House

The true foundation of our Franchise training is a 15-day hands-on program at our SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility. 

Here, team members get to work in the Training House, a model home where they can apply what they’ve learned in cleaning and restoration in simulated real-life situations. Taught by certified instructors, the course ensures our SERVPRO specialists are indeed experts who can handle anything because they’ve seen everything.

You can learn more about the Training House on our SERVPRO YouTube page.

e-Learning and Continued Education

Even after joining one of our Franchise teams, SERVPRO experts have plenty of resources to keep them at the forefront of new technologies or processes in the industry. 

Our library web-based training courses sharpen the skills and expertise of all our specialists. And SERVPRO of Central OKC even offers credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate adjusters and franchise staff, to improve their skills in emergency mitigation.

Courses include: 

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
• Restorative Drying for Loss Control
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (non-credit course)

Contact Our Team

If you’re ever facing a restoration emergency, find peace of mind with SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City. Call us at (405) 252-9400 or request help online.

The Dangers of Chemical Drain Cleaners

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

Many commercial building owners use chemical drain cleaners to flix a clogged drain.

Are Chemical Drain Cleaners Dangerous

Many commercial building owners use a chemical cleaner to fix a clogged drain. However, this could just cause more harm to the premises. Here are some reasons your clients should only use chemical products as a last resort. These cleaners can actually cause harm in several ways.

1. They Can Hurt Pipes
The heat produced by chemical cleaners can harm certain pipes. Older metal or plastic pipes are particularly prone to damage from chemicals.

2. They Can Hurt the Environment
The chemicals from drain cleaners do not stay in pipes forever. They eventually end up in landfills, lakes and rivers, where they could poison various animals.

3. They Can Hurt People
Cleaners can even cause adverse effects to humans. Simply breathing them in while trying to clear a clogged drain could irritate the throat and eyes.
Since chemical drain cleaners can be dangerous, your clients should first try to clear the clog with mechanical options such as an auger or plunger. If that does not work, they can use non-toxic cleaners that use bacteria or enzymes to eat the clog. These cleaners work best on clogs that result from organic materials such as soap, hair, or grease.
To prevent damage to your clients' The Village, OK, buildings, you should tell them to avoid pouring chemicals down a clogged drain. An auger or enzymatic cleaner can safely remove the clog without harming the pipes.
If a broken or deteriorating pipe does harm your client's property, you will need to call sewage cleaning specialists to dry the premises and remove any mold. SERVPRO franchise professionals will respond quickly to the emergency and do what they can to thoroughly restore the property while keeping costs down. The franchises have the corporate resources to tackle big projects yet remain locally operated and owned.
SERVPRO is thus a preferred vendor for numerous insurance providers. Whether your client's water loss resulted from a chemical drain cleaner or a frozen pipe, SERVPRO can assist with the repairs.

How To Keep Your Employees Safe During Mold Cleanup

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Mold remediation in Oklahoma City, OK

How To Keep Your Employees Safe During Mold Cleanup

After discovering mold growth at your office in Oklahoma City, OK, you have taken the proper steps to manage the situation. You've stopped water flow to the area, you've blocked it off, and you called a mold removal and remediation team to come and handle the cleanup. Mold can be scary for people who don't know much about it. Black mold in particular looks intimidating, and only an expert knows for sure whether or not mold is actually toxic. Your employees want to know what is being done to keep them safe during work. Here are a few things that the cleanup team will do to keep you and your workers safe during the process.

1. Barriers
Containment barriers make sure that the mold is contained only to the work area. Heavy plastic sheeting and other materials are hung around the work area and sealed top to bottom so that the mold particles don't migrate to other areas of the office building.

2. HEPA Filters
HEPA filters create negative air pressure which prevents mold from dispersing to other areas. This also helps to maintain the air quality during mold removal as the air is vented outside of the containment area.

3. PPE
The cleanup team will wear personal protective equipment including full body suits, boots, shoe covers, gloves, eye protection, face masks with ventilators, and hoods. In addition to keeping the workers safe, it helps to contain the mold to the appropriate area as that equipment will be removed in a safe area to prevent additional mold spread.
Consider offering your team the option of working from home, if possible, if they are very concerned about the mold cleanup process. It is better for everyone to feel safe so that they can focus on their work.
When done by professionals, mold removal prevents further mold growth and is a pretty safe process. Communicate with your team to let them know that the mold cleanup is being handled with their wellness in mind.

Hidden Dangers of Hoarding

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Hoarding can have implications for the safety of those that live in the home in the event that a fire occurs.

Here at SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City, we deal with all sorts of damage and disasters. SERVPRO is proud to offer biohazard cleanup and remediation services. One specialized cleaning service we offer is the cleanup of hoarding sites. Hoarding refers to the persistent difficulty to part with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. Hoarding behaviors can increase the likelihood that fire damage might occur in a home, and can put those who live in the household at a heightened risk of an accident or injury in the event that a fire does occur.

Hoarding is a major fire hazard due to the amount of items and clutter present. Items may be too close to sources of heat, which increases the likelihood of a fire starting or spreading more quickly. Cooking may also be unsafe in the homes of hoarders, as flammable items may too close to the stove, oven, or other smaller kitchen appliances.

Hoarding may impede the firefighter’s ability to do their job. The excessive amount of objects and clutter in the home makes it difficult for firefighters to put out the fire and to locate occupants within the structure. Additionally, falling objects and blocked entrances & exits make working in the structure more dangerous in general.

Hoarding increases the risk that the homeowner or dweller can be will killed or injured. Many individuals who exhibit hoarding tendencies are more likely to die in a fire due to exits being blocked, which results in them not being able to escape the structure quickly enough. Additionally, falling objects put individuals within the structure at an increased risk of injury.

If you or someone you know struggles with hoarding behaviors, reach out to SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City for help. We treat each and every customer with the utmost respect and understanding. Our team understands that this type of biohazard cleanup may be an emotionally stressful time for some people, but we are here to help you every step of the way.

Tips for Cleaning Electronics

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

The concept of clean has taken on a new meaning and importance over the recent months.

Here at SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City, we are dedicated to helping our community in whatever capacity we can. The novel coronavirus is bringing about new challenges for everyone. Keeping our belongings clean has taken on new meaning and importance. It is important that we are frequently cleaning our belongings, especially those that are high-contact or those that frequently leave the house with us, such as phones and other electronics. Here are some tips for cleaning your electronics thoroughly and effectively.

Make sure that you are using the proper cleaning products. A 50/50 mix of distilled water and 99% isopropyl (standard rubbing alcohol) does the trick for cleaning and disinfecting most electronic devices. A microfiber cloth is what is recommended for wiping down most such items. Try not to be tempted by products such as electronic cleaning wipes. Though they may work, they are generally much more expensive than the products you would need to easily make your own cleaning solution at home.

Do not spray any liquids directly on your electronics. Rather, spray the cleaning solution onto a microfiber cloth, cotton swab, or lint-free cloth. These soft cloths are recommended over paper towels since they are far less abrasive.

Make sure that the device is unplugged from the power source and that the batteries are removed. Though USB ports tend to attract dirt and debris, this can be an easy place for cleaning solution to enter the device and harm it. Be sure to pay special attention to these openings when you are cleaning them.

Hopefully these general tips can give you an idea how to clean your electronics. Be sure to check each devices respective manual for tips and advice on how to best clean it. SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City offers a deep-cleaning program, our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, and is here to help with your cleaning needs!

Contents Cleaning Explained

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Many different types of belongings made from a myriad of materials can be restored to preloss condition if properly handled.

If disaster affects your property in a major way, your belongings may have been impacted as well. When working with your insurance company or speaking with SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City, you may have heard the phrase “contents cleaning” thrown around. There is more to contents cleaning than just the actual cleaning of your belongings. This blog post will break down the contents cleaning process for you so you know what is happening to your beloved belongs every step of the way.

Step One: The Contents Analysis. Before the contents are able to be cleaned, the restoration company will determine what is salvageable and what is non-salvageable. Salvageable items are those that can be cleaned and restored to preloss condition while un-salvageable items cannot be restored and will need to be replaced.

Step Two: The Pack Up. The SERVPRO technician in charge of your contents will begin by photographing all of your salvageable items, then add barcodes to each of your items (or each box of your items). This will ensure that your items can be tracked at any time and that nothing will get lost. Once all the items have been accounted for, they will be packed up and transported to the restoration facility for cleaning.

Step Three: The Pack Out. Back at the warehouse, the items will be unpacked and prepared for the actual cleaning.

Step Four: The Contents Cleaning. Once unpacked, our technicians will go through and examine every item to determine the best way to clean each one. Several factors are considered, such as the material that the item is made of (generally meaning whether they are hard or soft contents), if they should be washed by hand or by machine, and what type of chemicals can safely be used on each item. Most hard items can be cleaned in a machine, like the UltraSONIC cleaning machine used by SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City. Delicate items and electronics will undergo specialized types of cleaning to ensure that they are handled correctly

Step Five: Contents Storage. If your contents are cleaned before the work on your property is completed, your belongings need to be safely stored somewhere. They will be kept in our climate controlled warehouse until the work on your property is finished.

Step Six: The Pack Back. Your property is now ready, and your contents are transported back to your home or business.

Step Seven: The Unpack. The final stage of the contents cleaning process! Once at your property, the boxes containing your contents will be unloaded and unpacked. Our technician will go over the contents inventory with you to ensure that everything was returned and allow you to inspect the quality of your items.

And that’s it! Trust that SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City can give you post-disaster peace of mind by allowing us to handle your content need! Give us a call at (405)252-9400 or submit an information form today!

What Being Biohazardous Really Means

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Given the potential harm that biohazardous waste can have on humans and other animals, it is important to deal with it as quickly as possible.

One of the many services that SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City offers is biohazard clean up and restoration services. Biohazard is short for biological hazard, which refers to a biological substance that is known to have a direct (negative) affect on humans or animals. Biohazardous waste is most commonly produced by medical facilities (hospitals, doctor’s office, pathologies, laboratories), nursing homes, veterinarian’s offices, and tattoo parlors. Large amounts of biohazardous waste is produced every day, as they are simply a by-product of a number of commonplace cultural practices and procedures. Common examples of biohazardous waste include used syringes, used needles, and contaminated paper such as used tissues or toilet paper. Biohazardous waste can and should be picked up by a biohazard waste removal company so that it be properly dealt with.

There are several instances in which biohazard cleaning is appropriate. One example of this is crime scene clean up, where bodily fluids or dangerous substances (such as illegal drugs or potent chemicals used to produce illegal drugs) may have been leftover in the aftermath. Biohazard clean up may also be needed after an industrial spill such as a chemical spill at a plant or factory. This type of cleaning may also be needed in the event of animal biohazard contamination.

Whatever the reason may be that your property needs biohazard clean up services, SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City is fully equipped and ready to help. Give us a call today at (405)252-9400 or submit an information form so we can better understand your situation!

How Heat Can Damage Your Property

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

Heat and sun damage can potentially cause both aesthetic and structural issues.

Summer in Oklahoma City can be intense to say the least. With temperatures consistently breaking 100° Fahrenheit, it is important to understand how high temperatures may affect your property. Here are the some of the various parts of your property that heat can cause damage to.

Paint. Excessive heat can cause damage to the paint on the exterior of your property.. Be sure to check your exterior paint for bubbling, chipping, and flaking. This is not just a cosmetic issue. Rather, this type of damage can create an opening for moisture. Uninvited moisture could even allow mold to begin forming in your home. A quick check during hot summer months could save you a great deal of hassle (and money) down the road.

Roof. Sun exposure can cause a number of different types of damage to your roof, which could affect both the lifespan, performance, and durability of your roof. The coating that protects your roofing materials may be dried out by the sun, which may cause the coating to crack or break completely, leaving the top of your house exposed to the elements. The bleaching of your roof could also occur, though this is largely an aesthetic problem. Depending on what type of material your roof is made of, it may be more susceptible to different types of heat damage, so you may want to explore this topic further so you know what warning signs to be on the lookout for.

Foundation. Soil acts as a support system to your foundation. When your soil has a lack of moisture, it begins to shrink and pull away from your foundation. This creates space for movement and settlement, which can cause cracks in your foundation. Soil shrinkage can be caused by periods of excessive heat, as the sun dries out the soil. Be sure to regularly assess the amount of moisture in your soil in the summer months.

Pipes. Water use typically increases during the summer months, which places extra pressure on your pipes. If your foundation shifts even slightly, your water lines could disconnect or even rupture due to movement. You can regularly check for leaks yourself, and have a plumber regularly check the caulking and sealing around your pipes.

Try to beat the heat as best you can,but remember to care for the well-being of your property too! If you do end up needing any repairs to your property, be sure to give us a call at (405)252-9400 or submit an information form. Hot or cold, we are here to help!