Preventing Home Water Damage This Summer

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your Montgomery County home from water damage this summer

The worst time for water damage is when you are away from home. While you cannot do anything to control the weather, you may be able to prevent or reduce the outcome of water damage. The following tips will help you protect your home from weather-related water damage.  

Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Leaves and sticks accumulate in the gutters and downspouts, preventing rainwater from draining properly. When the gutters are clogged, the water can overflow into your foundation and lead to a basement flood. Remove trash and debris from your gutters and downspouts to prevent significant problems. Also, make sure the downspouts are long enough to discharge the water at least three feet away from your home. 

Shut Off the Main Water & Supply Valves 

Turn off the water in your home at the main shut-off valve. The main shut-off valve will prevent leaks that can lead to major damage, so you won’t have to worry about returning home to a water damage issue. In addition, you can shut off the water supply to the most frequent causes of water damage, such as toilets, washing machines, etc. These appliances will feature individual shut-off valves. Turn the valve clockwise to stop the water flow.

Test Your Sump Pump

Sump pumps prevent excess water from entering your home. Testing your sump pump before leaving on vacation ensures that the groundwater stays out of the basement. You can test the sump pump with a bucket of water and assess whether it is pumping the water out.

Backup Pipes

A sewer backup can occur when wastewater does not properly drain away from your home due to an obstruction or damage. If you experience any difficulties with your sewer lines, call a plumber right away to have them look at them. 

The chances of experiencing water or flood damage are higher during the summer. If you discover significant water damage in your home, business, or commercial building, call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring. Our certified professionals provide effective water mitigation and flood cleanup services to remove excess water from your home and restore damaged materials.

To learn more about SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring water damage repair and restoration, click here.

Call us at 301-530-7400

Clean Up Services in Montgomery County

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac & SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring

Sewage leaks or vandalism & graffiti can occur at any time. The water is unsanitary and may contain bacteria, microbes, and other viruses that can cause serious illness.

When a sewage backup occurs, SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring is ready to provide cleanup services to remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture. We can then clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure and contents. Our certified professionals will inspect the contaminated water to determine the type of water and plan the appropriate response to restore your home or business safely.

We also offer vandalism and graffiti cleanup services for commercial & residential property owners. Our certified technicians will act quickly to remove vandalism and graffiti from your home and commercial spaces. Our certified technicians can also clean driveways, walkways, asphalt, metal, wood, glass, plastic, and masonry. In addition, we can also offer the following services:

• General cleaning and graffiti removal
• Brick, stone, and concrete cleaning
• Odor removal and deodorization
• Debris removal
• Water damage restoration
• Fire damage restoration
• Mold damage restoration
• Contents cleaning

Need Sewage or Vandalism & Graffiti Cleanup Services?

Call Us Today – (301) 530-7400 or (301) 588-2240

If you find yourself dealing with a sewage backup or vandalism & graffiti emergency, SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring is here to help. When fire or water damage strikes your business, you need professional help to get your property back to business. Every hour spent cleaning and restoring is lost revenue and productivity. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring has the training, experience, and equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.” You can depend on our team for these commercial services.

Fire Damage: Outdoor Grilling Safety 101

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring is here to assist you with fire damage

The most popular way to cook food during the summer season is grilling. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), gas and charcoal grills cause an annual average of $1,500 structure fires and 4,200 outdoor fires in commercial or residential properties, resulting in a combined direct property loss of $29.8 million. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition. Read more to learn about fire safety grilling and our fire restoration process.  

This Summer, Make Fire Safety A Priority

• Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.
• When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluids designed for barbecue grills.
• When using a gas grill, check for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.
• Keep children and pets far away from the grills. 
• Use propane and charcoal BBQ grills only outdoors.
• Never store a grill with a propane tank inside your home.
• When grilling is complete, let the coals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container. 

Fire Damage Restoration Services

When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differ greatly and require a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. 

• Emergency Contact
• Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
• Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
• Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
• Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
• Cleaning and Repair
• Restoration

Even when taking the appropriate measures, fires can still happen. Our team hopes that you do not experience fire damage, but if you do, call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring. Our certified technicians have the expertise, equipment, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. 

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring is locally owned and operated

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (301) 530-7400 or (301) 588-2240

Be Prepared in Case of a Thunderstorm in Montgomery County

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac & SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring is always Here to Help!

April showers do not always bring May flowers. Residential and commercial property owners cannot always prepare for severe weather. Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, and flash flooding. Storms can be incredibly dangerous, and it is important to put your family and pet safety first.

Protecting Your Home from Thunderstorms & Lightning

Pay attention to the weather forecasts for information on thunderstorms in the Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and Silver Spring areas. Protect your home before a thunderstorm by cutting down or trimming trees that may fall on your home during a storm. Also, consider buying surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system to protect your electronic devices, appliances, and home. In addition, make sure that your sump pump is working properly.

Prepare Your Family and Pets for Thunderstorms

• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household.
• Identify a safe space in your home for household members, including pets to gather during a thunderstorm.
• Put together an emergency preparedness kit.
• Pay attention to alerts and warnings.
• Unplug appliances.
• Avoid flooded roads, six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of water is not safe for vehicles. 

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring can respond immediately to storm and water damage. Our certified technicians are ready to restore your home, business, or commercial property quickly. Your home may need construction work, and we can simplify the restoration process by handling the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. You should choose the company with the most storm damage experience and the best understanding of treatment. To learn more about SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring storm resources click here.

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring is always Here to Help! Call us at (301) 530-7400 or (301) 588-2240.

24 Hour Emergency Response Team

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring is available 24/7 for water emergencies, large or small. Our certified professionals specialize in residential & commercial water damage restoration, with training focused on restoring salvageable items and accelerating drying time while documenting the entire restoration process. We have more than 45+ years of experience in the cleanup and restoration industry. Our certified technicians care about your Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and Silver Spring property and want to help you get your property to its pre-existing state.

What to Expect When You Call

Our customer service representative will ask you a series of questions regarding the water damage emergency. A water damage event can be traumatic, and when you call our office, we understand that you may be feeling confused and stressed out. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring will guide you through your water damage emergency. 

When you call our local office, you can expect us to ask you a series of questions regarding your water emergency. These questions will help our team determine the type of equipment and resources to bring, including how many certified technicians are needed to complete the job successfully.

Here are some questions you may be asked:

• Name & Contact information
• Insurance information (if applicable)
• The address where the loss occurred
• The source of the water damage (if identified)
• If electricity and water are available on the on-site
• The time and date of the flood or water loss

Our certified technicians are here when the unfortunate happens. We provide water mitigation, fire restoration, contents manipulation, and reconstruction services. We also offer general cleaning, biohazard services, and so much more! Rest assured, our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your home, business, or commercial building. SERVPRO can complete the job from beginning to end. If you need emergency services, we recommend calling SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring immediately at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240.

Water Damage In Montgomery County

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO Chevy Chase/Silver Spring to help with your water restoration needs. 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240

Faster to Any Size Water Emergency

Water is invasive, quickly spreading throughout your business or industrial property in Montgomery County. Water can be absorbed into your floors, walls, furniture, and documents. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring certified technicians arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost always immediately. Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and Silver Spring residents and business owners can expect us to respond immediately to your water emergency.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• The paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Call SERVPRO ASAP

Call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring when your home has been left partially submerged. Our technicians specialize in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential properties after a fire, smoke, or water damage event. Click here to see what our customers have to say about us. Our office is always ready to respond to your call.

Water or Flood Damage?

Call today - 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240!

4 Common Causes of Water Damage in the Kitchen

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

If you have never experienced water damage in the kitchen, that does not mean you won’t in the future. Kitchen appliances can be a source of water damage. The refrigerator, kitchen sink, and dishwasher can become worn over time or can malfunction onto your kitchen floors. When water damage is not addressed, it can later develop into significant problems.

Refrigerator broken water lines can cause leaks and water damage. Water line cracks can cause major flooding quickly. Water lines tend to break from pulling out the refrigerator to pushing it back into place. The refrigerator’s freezer tubing can also freeze and burst.

Dishwasher wear and tear can cause water to spill out through the door. Leaks underneath the dishwasher may result from cracks in the hose, gasket failure, and loose connection to the drainpipes or water source. Unnoticeable leaks underneath the dishwasher can cause damage to floors and mold growth.

A Kitchen Sink without basic maintenance could lead to water damage. The sink and faucet’s gaskets, washers, and O-rings become worn and defective as time passes and are causes for leaks. Improperly installed faucets will leak from the start, even if the water intrusion is not visible. In addition, buildup and corrosion on the faucet’s moving parts can also lead to a greater problem.

Water Pipe damage in the kitchen can occur when outdoor temperatures drop below freezing. The pipes under the kitchen sink can freeze and burst. If a pipe does not burst, the frozen water can interfere with the water connection and cause a leak.

SERVPRO is Here to Help!

Water damage in the kitchen is not always predictable. Hire a professional for your water damage needs. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring have the expertise and equipment to restore your home, business, or commercial property quickly. Our water removal and clean-up approach emphasizes monitoring and documenting the drying process from beginning to end. Your home may need construction work, and we can simplify the restoration process by handling the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Call us today at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240.

Fire Damage from Dryer Vents and Ducts

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

Learning about dryer vents and ducts safety can prevent your home from experiencing fire damage

Cleaning the lint buildup in your dryer vents and ducts reduces the risk of home dryer-related fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, firefighters across the country respond to about 13,820 home fires caused by dryers every year. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring can help clean dryer vents and ducts that have lint buildup. Keeping your air vents and ducts clean can extend the life of the equipment, save you money, and prevent a fire. Keep reading to learn a few simple tips you can take to help prevent a clothes dryer fire.

Tips for Keeping Your Vents Cleaned:

• Clean the lint from the dryer’s lint screen after every load.
• Do not use your dryer without a lint filter.
• Make sure the outdoor vent flap opens correctly and is not restricted by potential obstacles.
• Replace coiled-wire foil or plastic venting with ridges. They can allow lint to build up at low points and trap lint in the ridges.
• In addition to self-cleaning your dryer, hire a certified technician to conduct dryer vent and duct cleanings to ensure proper cleaning.

Fire Damage Restoration in Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, & Silver Spring

It is essential to take care of your dryer vents and ducts for the safety of your home. When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. Contact SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster. We help give control back to homeowners, property managers, & our local communities. If you experience a fire caused by your dryer or any other appliances in your home, call us at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240.

Storm Safety Spring Thunderstorms

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac & SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring provide Storm Damage Restoration Services

Spring is finally here, and we are starting to experience warmer temperatures. A common spring weather hazard is a thunderstorm. Thunderstorms can produce a combination of large hail, damaging winds, and flash floods. Keep reading to learn more about thunderstorms and how they can impact your home, business, or commercial building.

Signs of Approaching Thunderstorms:

• Increasing winds
• Sound of thunder
• Flashing of lightning

When are thunderstorms likely to happen?

Thunderstorms are not uncommon in the Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and Silver Spring regions. Thunderstorms are most likely to occur during the spring and summer months. According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, thunderstorms can occur year-round and are more likely to occur during the afternoon and evening hours. 

Thunderstorm Safety Tips for Your Home

During a thunderstorm, homes or businesses are subjected to flash flooding, lightning strikes, and large hail. To stay safe during a thunderstorm event, get to shelter, have a plan, and stay indoors. The following are safety tips to strengthen your home or business:

• To protect your home, appliances, and electronic devices consider buying surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system.
• Cut down or trim down trees that may fall on your home.
• Install a backup generator.
• Close all windows, doors, and garage doors when lighting is in the area.

SERVPRO Storm Damage Team

Regardless of the weather season, SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring provide Storm Damage Restoration services that will help return your home or business to its pre-existing state. Team Hargrove has the experience and equipment to help with your clean-up, restoration, and construction needs. Our local office provides 24-hour Emergency Service call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240. Our certified technicians can help make it "Like it never even happened."

Mold Damage Remediation Do's and Don'ts

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can enter your home or business in many ways: through windows, doors, HVAC systems-even on your pets or clothing. When these microscopic spores are exposed to moisture, they thrive and can grow into a bigger problem in a matter of days. You might start to notice a strong and musty odor. Before the mold remediation can begin, you need to find and repair the water source of the mold. 

When mold starts to invade your home, it is essential to deal with the damage quickly and safely. The mold remediation process depends on the mold growth and the surfaces on which the mold is present. Our certified professionals use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. Consider the following steps to keep your family and property safe.

What to Do:

• Help control mold growth indoors by keeping the humidity in the 30%-50% range.
• Attempt to determine the water source and take appropriate action to stop the source.
• Restrict access to the area with mold for pets, kids, and yourself. If the mold is in one room or area that has a door, close the door or cabinet to help with containment.
• Turn off the HVAC system, fans, or other air moving equipment you have on your property.

What Not to Do:

• Do not touch or disturb the mold.
• Do not spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.
• Do not paint over it.
• Do not attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Do not blow air across any surface with visible or suspected mold growth.

Why SERVPRO?

Our certified professionals handle your mold damage and have the credentials from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC). When dealing with mold, a quick response will help lessen the damage, help avoid costly repairs, and help result in less disruption. We have the specialized equipment and resources to handle the job, any size, commercial or residential.

Have Water Damage or Mold Damage?

Call Us Today (301) 530-7400 or (301) 588-2240

Flooding in Your Commercial Property

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Floods result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems. Floods develop slowly and with no warning. Floods can cause severe damage to your commercial property. They can damage your commercial structure, cause outages, and allow water to seep into your property.

Spring brings warmer weather, longer days, and a much-anticipated break from winter. It also brings a very real threat of severe weather. Ranging from flooding rain to thunderstorms and tornadoes. Depending on where you live, here are some ways a spring storm might damage your commercial property:

• Water damage is caused by flooding from melting snow, frozen pipes that burst, and sump pumps fail during power outages.
• Fire damage is caused by the use of alternative emergency heat sources, sprinkler systems that fail to die to freeze pipes, downed power lines, or environmental conditions leading to structure fires.
• Wind damage is caused by fallen trees and limbs, damaged siding and roofs, and downed power lines.

Flood insurance is mostly provided by the federal government through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The NFIP will cover all types of floods, including flash flooding, storm surges, mudslides, or snowmelt. Maryland commercial flood insurance covers damage to your building and contents caused by a flood. 

These scenarios do not happen in isolation. For example, tornadoes and violent thunderstorms put property owners at risk for water, fire, and wind damage. It is essential to understand which hazards might affect your commercial property and then take the proper steps to prepare.

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring is here to help if you have water damage or flood damage to your Montgomery County business. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When an emergency arises in your business, give us a call, and we’ll be there fast with the help you need. Our franchise is locally owned & operated and proudly serves the Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and Silver Spring areas. Water damage or flooding? Call us 24/7 at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240.

Storm Damage & Fast Remediation for Faster Results

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Storm Damage in the Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, Silver Spring can affect both the exterior and interior of your home or business. When dealing with storms, floods, and water damage, immediate action is critical. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring can respond immediately to water and storm damage emergencies. We handle all jobs of any size. 

When storms approach our region, we usually have no time to prepare. Severe weather can cause damage to many homes in the Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and Silver Spring area. Shingles, skylights, pipe collars, and roof vents damaged by a storm are no match for our certified technicians. We can provide a trap if necessary and repair damages to your home or business. Our certified technicians will repair the interior of your home and make it "Like it never even happened." Our technicians will remove most of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your home or business. We can also provide you with content manipulation if any personal items or furniture are in the areas affected. Our certified technicians can also repair any structural materials to the pre-existing state. 

SERVPRO Water Cleanup & Restoration

SERVPRO certified technicians provide build-back services and temporary measures to address storm damages:

• Roof tarping
• Board-ups
• Temporary framing
• Plywood 
• Contents manipulation

Following these measures prevent further damages and allows technicians to continue their work even when power outages occur. Our certified technicians have the experience and the knowledge to help you remediate and restore your home. 

Locally Owned Company in the DMV

Calling SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240 can help lessen the damage, limit further damage, and reduce cost. We are always Here to Help, 24/7. We can provide you with a preliminary estimate and with a plan. We service the Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and Washington, DC region. Our certifications are from the IICRC and cover installations, repairs, cleaning, and restorations.

Water Damage Emergency Tips…What Can I Do Until Help Arrives?

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring certified professionals are ready to help 24/7/365 days a year for water damage emergencies large and small. When it comes to water damage, time is of the essence. SERVPRO technicians bring extraction equipment that can remove large quantities of water and professional cleaning agents to treat the water. These cleaning agents reduce harmful elements to make the water safer to handle. 

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring has a specific water damage protocol to walk you through the difficult and stressful times following a disaster in your home or business.

Here are a few tips on what you can do before help arrives.

• Ask yourself if it is safe to stay in your home or business?
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting. 
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place. 
• Gather loose items from floors.

When you call our franchise office, our SERVPRO representatives will ask you questions regarding the water loss. These questions help our certified professionals know what tools and equipment are needed. Here are a few of the following questions we will ask:

• Name & Contact Information
• Street address where the loss occurred
• Cause of the water damage and if the leak is still active
• Is electricity or water still available on site?
• The date and time the loss occurred

We are here to help when the unfortunate happens. We provide water mitigation, fire restoration, mold remediation, contents manipulation, and reconstruction services. We also offer general cleaning, biohazard services, and so much more. We can complete the job from start to finish. We are the #1 cleanup and restoration in the nation.

If you need emergency services, we recommend calling SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring immediately at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240.

Commercial Biohazard Cleanup & Restoration

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring can help your commercial property when hazmat, trauma, or crime scene cleanup services are needed. Once the police have completed their investigation of a crime scene, we will help make it "Like it never even happened." Our certified professionals will respond immediately and have the specialized training, protective equipment, and experience to clean trauma and crime scenes. 

We provide cleanup and recovery services for biohazard situations. These include the following:

• Sewage backups
• Crime scene residues
• Suicide/death accidents
• Homicide cleanups
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup
• Meth lab cleanup

Common Biohazard Scenarios

Sewage Backups: Dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits. Sewage backup damage can introduce harmful microorganisms into your home, business, or property. To help ensure that your property is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized, we remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture.

Bloodborne Pathogens: Our certified professionals can remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime, or death. We will also clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure. 

Commercial Biohazard Cleanup Services

We strive to empathize with our customers because we understand that biohazard situations can often be a traumatic and emotional experience. At the first sign of any biohazard scenario, call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240. We are available at any time of day with our 24-Hour Emergency Service. 

We are locally owned and operated in Lanham and dispatch to Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and Washington, DC. Our certified technicians are trained and prepared both mentally and physically to handle biohazard cleanup and restoration. We are faster to any size disaster, which is essential. A fast response reduces restoration costs and prevents additional damage.

Smoke Damage Behavior

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

The behavior of smoke can often complicate damages to your property following a fire. There are two different types of smoke: wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO Chevy Chase/Silver Spring certified professionals have the experience and training in fire cleanup and restoration. Our certified technicians know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns.

Our certified technicians will survey the loss to determine the extent of the damage due to the fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and contents. Our certified technician will test the soot on the building materials to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The following are types of smoke that can affect the restoration process.

Dry Smoke

Fast-burning, high-temperature fires caused by paper or wood are called dry smoke. Dry smoke can easily fall into the cracks or porous materials in your home or business. This smoke makes it relatively easy to clean compared to more dense smoke and soot residue.

Wet Smoke

Wet smoke damage comes from low heat and smoldering fires. Both plastic and rubber produce wet smoke when burned. These smelly blazes usually have fewer flames but much more thick, black smoke than their dry counterparts. Wet smoke residue is sticky and smeary.

Protein Residue 

Protein residue is produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire. This residue is often caused by cooking fire incidents in the kitchen. This type of smoke is virtually invisible. However, this type of smoke can permanently discolor painted, varnished, or other finished surfaces. Protein residue damage has an extremely pungent odor, and if not treated, the unpleasant smell can permeate your entire home or business if left untreated.

Fuel Oil Soot

Fuel oil residue is not often seen in home and business fires unless petroleum products are in the space. Fuel oil residue is sticky, dense, and especially difficult to clean. Its odor is strong and offensive, which can ruin upholstered pieces of furniture when not cleaned properly. Furnace puff backs can create havoc for homeowners SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac & SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

Other Types

Other types of smoke include tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue. Special loss situations require special care.

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring professionals handle even the toughest losses. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact us at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240 to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Air Duct Cleaning in Montgomery County

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Leave air duct cleanup to our well-certified staff and decades of water and fire restoration experience!

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, but SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring can help change that! In most cases, HVAC systems have been operating for some time without any attention. Dirty ducts can circulate debris and dirt throughout your home, including odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust. In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke, or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process.

A routine part of SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring professional’s service is inspecting the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean potentially expands the lifespan of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak conditions.

SERVPRO’s Duct Cleaning System

Our certified technicians will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork. We will recommend the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This air duct cleaning process is as follows: 

• The duct cleaning process begins by using patented equipment, including a rotoscraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
• Our certified technicians will then use powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system to transfer the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97% of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.
• As an optional step, our certified technicians can apply a sealant, or a coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
• Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

Why SERVPRO?

Our duct cleaning system is proven and cost-efficient. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring professionals use portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime. Call us today to schedule an inspection. We are Here to Help!

For SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac Dial: 301-530-7400

For SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring Dial: 301-588-2240

Should I Hire Fire Restoration Professionals?

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

You can trust SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring for your fire & water damage remediation needs.

SERVPRO Brings 45+ Years of Experience to Montgomery County Properties with Fire Damage

If your commercial property has smoke damage from a minor fire, you may think all you need is a quick cleanup. Smoke can cause extensive damage, and you should use professional fire damage services in Montgomery County. A fire can quickly move through a building and even put your team at risk. Good planning can help ensure that a fire does not happen, and if it does, it can be handled quickly and effectively.

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase certified technicians have the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Our certified technicians have the training to:

• Inspect and Assess Fire Damages
• Provide Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service
• Remove Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

What Does The Inspection Involve?

Our certified technicians will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire damage to develop a plan of action.

What Protection Measures Does SERVPRO Provide?

To protect your property against further damage, we can board up missing windows, walls, and doors. We can also place tarps on damaged roofs.

How Are Smoke and Soot Removed?

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Contact SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240 for commercial fire remediation services in Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and Silver Spring. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through its completion.

Prevent Water Damage Repairs

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Frozen water pipes are a problem during the winter season, affecting Montgomery County homes each winter. Frozen pipes can occur in homes with both plastic and copper pipes. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring are available for water emergencies in Montgomery County. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the damage and possibly lead to mold. Below are preventative tips to help reduce the risk of frozen water pipes and property damages.

Tips to Help Prevent Pipes from Freezing

• Seal leaks. Locate and thoroughly seal leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes, and use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out.
• Insulate pipes. Pipe insulation prevents pipes from freezing due to severe winter weather conditions. 
• Adjust the thermostat. Keeping your thermostat temperature constant during the day and night helps reduce the risk of frozen pipes. In addition, during the winter season, this also helps reduce the strain on the furnace. 
• Open cabinet doors. Keeping your cabinet doors open allows heat to get to un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.

Our Water Damage Restoration Process

Frozen pipe incidents can cause moisture to leak into the interior of your home. When your building materials and personal items get wet, it is wise to seek out the help of a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring. Below is the water damage restoration process for common water-damaged properties:

• Emergency Contact
• Inspection & Water Damage
• Water Removal/ Water Extraction 
• Drying & Dehumidification
• Cleaning & Sanitizing

If you have frozen water pipes, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the severity of the problems. Further damages can occur if a water leak is left untreated for a long time. For example, if you know your pipes burst due to a freeze, you can start by turning off your main water valve.

If you have a pipe burst during the wintertime, call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240.                          

Put a Stop on Montgomery County Winter Fires

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

House fires increase over the winter months. According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly half of all home fires occurred in January, February, and December. Several factors contribute to winter fires including, portable space heaters, fireplace, central heat, and water heater. It is essential to know how to use heating equipment the right way to prevent fires at home. The following are some tips for keeping safe and warm indoors.

• Remember to keep space heaters on a stable, level surface, where they will not fall over. Never run the heater’s cord under rugs or carpeting.
• Have a professional clean and inspect your chimney and vents for safe use. 
• Throw away cooled chimney ashes in a tightly covered metal container. Keep the container outside at least 10 feet away from the building.
• Keep all lit candles at least 12 inches away from anything flammable.
• Have a fire extinguisher handy. Remember that each extinguisher must be serviced annually.

Have a safety escape plan for your family and pets. To practice fire safety, experts say it is essential to:

• Check smoke detectors every month to make sure they are working.
• Have a meeting point away from your home after you have evacuated.
• Practice your fire safety plan yearly.
• Plan at least two ways to get out of any room.

Keep these quick tips in mind to help prevent a major fire damage emergency from taking place in your home this winter season.

If you have recently experienced a fire in your home, business, or building, and need professional restoration to your residential or commercial property, give SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240.

SERVPRO is Here to Help You Combat COVID

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring work around the clock to keep homes and businesses safe!

We are once again facing an increase in COVID cases. As a leader in the cleanup and restoration industry, SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring is here to help clean and sanitize your home or business with our proprietary Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned services providing a safer environment for both your employees and customers in the Maryland region. To help combat COVID, SERVPRO offers different cleaning options to best suit your needs. We will work with you to schedule a cleaning time that fits your schedule. 

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home and business, according to the protocols set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We have years of experience dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond standard janitorial cleaning services.

Specialized Products

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

The CDC encourages the 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:

• 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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring, 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240

Winter is Here. How to Prepare for Winter Storm Weather

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

Winter storm-related damages to your home or business? SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring are Here to Help!

This week Maryland was hit by heavy snowstorms and below-freezing temperatures. Colder temperatures can have an impact on your Montgomery County home or business. To help prevent costly damages due to severe storm weather, SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring would like to remind you to take the following steps to prevent winter weather disasters or accidents in and around your home.

How to prepare for winter storm weather:

• Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms.
• Gather supplies you need to stay home for several days without power.
• Winterize your home with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping.
• Remember the needs of your pet, including pet food and water. 
• Create an emergency supply kit for your car.
• Install & test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
• Contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) if you cannot afford your heating costs, weatherization, or energy-related home repairs for help.

In the event you have frozen pipes, take these steps to be safe and help further damage:

• First, find your home’s main water supply and shut it off.
• Next, turn off your main electrical supply to reduce the risk of electrical shock and damage to circuits and electrical appliances.
• If the water comes from a hot water pipe, shut the main valve to your water heater as well.
• Call a plumber for help as soon as possible.
• Please do not attempt potentially dangerous repairs. Be aware of submerged electrical outlets, appliances, or chemicals that may be inside the standing water.

Why SERVPRO? 

If you experience pipe bursts or other water-related damages to your home or business property, SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring are available 24/7 to respond to water damage emergencies. We are a water and fire cleanup and restoration company and can help. Call us at 301-530-7400.

In Prince George’s County, call our SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover franchise at 301-779-3662 or 301-577-1166. We are Here to Help!

Causes of Water Damage in the Basement of Your Montgomery County Home

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

If not treated properly & efficiently, water can lead to other problems and cause more damage. We are always here to help!

How to tell whether you have water damage in your home or business

Water damage in your property is more common than you may think. Most people believe that water damage can only occur after a severe storm or flood. Although that is not always the case, most water damage events occur because of plumbing or erosion of water sealants due to wear and tear. Since water damages are unpredictable, it is essential to routinely check areas where water is likely to happen, including bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms.

Remember that it is essential to consult with certified water damage technicians when inspecting water-damaged areas. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring specializes in all things water damage! If you suspect you have water damage in your home or office, call us at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240, and we will walk you through the steps.

Cause #1: Pavement Slope

Sometimes paving settles over time, and water flow can change direction toward the house. If this is the cause, the paving should be removed and replaced with a new sealant.

Cause #2: Downspout distance

Downspouts should extend 10 feet from your home. While many homeowners do not like downspouts extending out this far, 10 feet is the minimum distance needed to discharge water coming off your roof far enough away from the house.

Cause #3: Sealant

Sealant around pavement that borders the house sometimes cracks due to age or incorrect installation. If there are cracks in the sealant, it must be removed and replaced with a new sealant.

Cause #4: Landscape slope

Your yard should be facing away from your home. Look for any depressions in the ground next to the foundation walls. If there are large hills nearby sloping toward your home, and you think they may be causing the problem, a civil engineer may be required to analyze the situation and determine the appropriate solutions.

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember that the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

Call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring, and we will repair any damage quickly and professionally, all while providing the highest quality of customer service.

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We are Here to Help 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240

Celebrate Safely This Holiday Season

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Candle fires peak around the holidays. Follow these safety tips to prevent such disasters.

Pretty lights, candles, and decorations are just a few of the items that bring cheer and ambiance to your home during the holidays. However, if they are not used carefully, your holidays may go from festive to disastrous. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the top three days for home candle fires are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve. Follow our list of tips to keep your family safe and help keep your home from suffering any fire damage this holiday season.

• Place Christmas trees, candles, and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, space heaters, radiators, heat vents, and candles.
• When using a fireplace, make sure that the chimney is open and cleared out before using. Keep pets and children away from the fire. 
• Make sure to not use more than 3 strands of light. Check to see if the light strings are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacture’s manual.
• Always unplug trees and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.
• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
• Use only tree stands designed to not tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from the Christmas tree.
• Keep anything flammable away from the stovetop including, potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains – away from your stovetop.
• Designate one person to walk around your property to ensure all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after guests leave. 

At SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring, we wish you a safe & happy holiday season. Fire damage to your home is always an unfortunate event, but even more so during the holiday season. Your neighborhood SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring is here to help with any fire damage restoration and cleanup that may need following an accident to help get your holiday season back on track.

Biohazard and Crime Cleanup Require Certified Technicians

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Leave any size cleanup for our certified technicians. SERVPRO will restore your property to its original state.

If your property needs hazmat, trauma, or crime scene cleanup, Call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring. A biohazard and crime scene situation requires competence and experience. After the police have completed their investigation of a crime scene, the cleanup and restoration can begin. When the fingerprints dust used by law enforcement gets too messy, our technicians can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe homes and offices.

For biohazards circumstances, SERVPRO technicians follow a special procedure:

Ensure, inspect, and evaluate the health and safety of our team and the occupants of the property.

Isolate and contain affected areas; establish a decontamination chamber if needed.

Remove the uncontaminated chamber, if applicable.

Contain and dispose of un-restorable contents.

Contain and remove restorable contents for the off-sire processing.

Clean, decontaminate, and possibly seal restorable structural materials.

Test, evaluate, and confirm cleanliness.

Remove all contaminants.

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring can provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazardous situations, including crime scene fingerprint dust, suicide/death accidents, chemical spills, animal waste/remains, and hoarding.

Biohazard emergencies do not always happen during the regular work week. At SERVPRO, we are Here to Help 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can expect a quick response time.

We are locally owned and operated in Montgomery County. Our certified technicians are trained and prepared both physically and mentally to handle biohazard, trauma, and crime scene cleanup and restoration with respect and professionalism. We can respond quickly with the appropriate resources, which is critical. A fast response reduces restoration costs and prevents additional damage.

For more information visit: https://www.SERVPRObethesdapotomacmd.com/biohazard-cleaning

When a Storm Hits Your Montgomery County Property, We Are One Call Away

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

After a storm hits our region, the difficult part is restoring your home to its original state. Hire restoration professionals to make it “Like it never even happened.” There are several types of storms that cause damage to one’s home or business. For example, types of storm damage include heavy rainstorms, flooding, wind damage, and snowstorms.

Our Certified Technicians Can Help After a Flood

Regardless of the type of damage your home experiences, you should assess your safety before recovering personal items. We understand that your home is important, but your safety is more important during a disaster. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring has a 24-hour emergency dispatching service that can put you in direct contact with one of our professional, certified technicians. Our dispatcher can schedule you for an inspection with one of our project managers, and we can then provide you with a preliminary estimate. 

The moment you see signs of storm damage, contact your certified experts to remediate the problem. Even if the scope of the damage appears minor. The longer it persists the more likely it is to cause further damage to your home or business. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the safety of your property.

Types of Secondary Damage 

• The potential spread of bacterial or viral contamination is present in the flood water
• Dangerous mold infestations
• Further structural damage if moisture spreads from the impacted area

How does SERVPRO Stop and Fix Further Damage?

• Depending on the level of damage-controlled demolition may be required
• To keep moisture from spreading, technicians perform flood cuts six inches above the damage 
• Air movers and dehumidifiers will be placed to dry the impacted area 
• After the area is thoroughly dried and moisture content restored, technicians can replace the drywall
• Once the wall is rebuilt, we will repaint the drywall to make it “Like it never even happened.”

If your home or business needs storm remediation, you can trust your local SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring franchise to help you get your life back after a storm or flood disaster. For 24/7 emergency assistance, contact us at (301)-530-7400 or 301-588-2240. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Want to know more about your local SERVPRO.

Water Damage In Commercial Buildings

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

We are here 24/7, 365 days a year. To have your home or business back to preloss condition.

Commercial water issues can be a major headache for property owners in Montgomery County. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring professionals will assist you in inspecting, mitigating, cleaning, and repairing any water overflow or leak damages. Below are some of the most common water issues that a business can experience, ranging from leaking pipes to foundation cracks. 

Common Commercial Water Problems

Extreme Weather Conditions

Weather conditions in our areas can lead to pipe bursts and leaky pipes. Severe cold weather can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand. The expansion of the water puts pressure on the pipes creating cracks or even causing the pipe to burst. When cold weather is in our forecast, you can take preventive measures by checking in with your local SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase Silver Spring.

Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can lead to toilet backup and sink overflows. When a pipe is clogged, water takes the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Clogged drains are likely to happen in commercial buildings because of the larger volume of waste and debris flushed down the drains, which often clog the systems and slow the drainage. Plumbing blockages occur from many things including, water mineral buildup, plaster, and grease. 

Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can also become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues, such as mold and structural issues. To determine the best plan cracks should be inspected by a certified SERVPRO professional. Water damage can occur at both commercial and residential properties. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring certified technicians fix the damage caused by extreme weather conditions, damaged pipes, and foundation cracks.

Why SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring?

Your local SERVPRO provides services in the Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and Silver Spring area for all aspects of commercial property services. We offer a wide range of services for both residential and commercial projects. Our technicians are highly trained and have extensive water damage restoration training. Our process emphasizes regular monitoring and documentation of the drying process from start to finish. Using specialized equipment and products, our certified technicians extract standing water and dry your property efficiently. We then finish the job with professional-grade cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing products for your comfort and safety. Contact us for services today at 301-530-7400!

Is Water Hiding Behind Your Montgomery County Home Baseboards?

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Call us when you need restoration services SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring 301-530-7400

Dealing with water damage can be stressful for Montgomery County homeowners. Many homeowners may not recognize baseboard water damage. The signs of baseboard water damage can vary depending on the location and the amount of damage present. If you have carpeting, you may wonder if the baseboards of your home are water damaged. Call your local SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring for your water remediation and restoration needs. 

The following are several ways to spot baseboard water damage:

• Signs of discoloration.
• Observe water damage from walls and ceilings. If these areas have water damage, your baseboards are likely to have water damage as well.
• The smell of the water damage can lead to the discovery of baseboard water damage.
• Peeling paint and damaged wallpaper vendor.

How To Fix Your Baseboards

The first step to repairing your baseboards is to solve the underlying problem of the leak. You must first identify the water leak to stop further water overflow from coming into your home. After you have determined the source of the leak, you will have to clean and sanitize the baseboards and possibly replace them. 

Water damage to the structural cavities of your home can lead to pressing structural concerns. Baseboard water damage is a sign of a much more significant problem. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring is close by and ready to respond to your water damage emergency. 

Call your local SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring for your water remediation and restoration needs. Our certified technicians can assist in replacing and repairing baseboard water damage. To learn more about our water restoration and mitigation services, click here! If you are experiencing a water damage emergency, contact SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring at 301-530-7400 and 301-588-2240. We are open 24-7 and will schedule an inspection for you with one of our project managers.

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring Cleans All Messes

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring certified technicians tackle specialty cleaning projects around your home or business, including air duct and HVAC cleaning, biohazard cleaning, odor removal, graffiti cleanup, and more.

Our certified technicians can cleanup and retore messes of all degrees:

HVAC/Air Duct Cleaning

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring provide air ducts and vents cleaning. If your HVAC system looks a bit dirty, you may need our services to better home air quality.

Biohazard & Crime Scene Cleanup

Whether your property needs hazmat, trauma, or crime scene cleanup, SERVPRO professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Document Restoration

SERVPRO professionals use vacuum freeze-drying technology to vaporize the water in affected items. Often, the process can recover most of the delicate documents. Our document restoration team has training and experience in specialties, including photo restoration services, document freeze-drying, and old document restoration.

Graffiti Cleaning and Vandalism

We can tackle broken windows and graffiti before it becomes a larger issue with more costly repairs. SERVPRO provides professional graffiti removal services, cleaning graffiti from exterior walls.

COVID-19 Cleaning

Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is a new defense deep cleaning program. You can trust SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring to bring a higher standard of cleaning to your business or home.

Call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240. We are Here to Help, whether your business is in Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, Silver Spring, or anywhere in between.

Gobble Up Fire Safety Tips This Thanksgiving

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving fire safety tips for your family & friends!

Holiday parties and family gatherings that were postponed last year due to COVID-19 concerns are great to look forward to this year. Plan this season to help ensure it is safe and fire-free for your family and friends. The number of house fires between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays peak to an average of 470 fires per day.

This season brings chilly temperatures and vibrant colors. The following are some fundamental cooking safety recommendations for homeowners to consider:

• Never leave food unattended on a range or cooktop. Sixty-one percent of home cooking fires start on an oven or cooktop.
• Never cook on the stovetop when you are sleepy or intoxicated.
• When cooking, use a timer to remind yourself that you are cooking.
• Keep anything flammable away from the stovetop. These items include potholders, wooden utensils, towels, curtains, and food wrappings.
• If you must leave the kitchen for any time, turn off the stove.

A few fall decoration safety tips to follow:

• Dry flowers and cornstalks should be kept away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters
• Keep emergency escape routes and exits clear of decorations
• Teach children fire safety
• Use extreme caution when using real candles in your fall decorations

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring wish our customers & friends a safe and happy Thanksgiving! For more fire prevention and fires safety tips and information about fire damage restoration services: https://www.SERVPRObethesdapotomacmd.com/fire-damage-tips

When disaster strikes, homeowners, business owners, and major insurance companies rely on SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Source:

https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/US-Fire-Problem/Home-Cooking-Fires

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring Stand Ready to Help!

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Our team & equipment stand ready to help friends & customers in Montgomery County!

When you call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring, you are calling our team of well-trained professionals and expert technicians to make it “Like it never even happened.” Our SERVPRO organization has been in business for 45 years and is managed under team Hargrove. We keep adapting to the current technology and standards in the restoration industry.

Large loss commercial adjusters and agents trust SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring with the most serious and complex damage claims. At our facility, we have two warehouses, different service vehicles, and let not forget our 18-wheelers. We are well equipped and can ensure that you will be receiving a one-of-a-kind service from us. Read on to learn more about our restoration and commercial services.

Learn more about our restoration services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• General Cleaning Services
• COVID cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold 
• Commercial Storm Damage Cleanup
• Disaster Recovery Team

Have Questions? Call us!

Our trained technicians have served residential and commercial communities in Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and Silver Spring for 45 years. If you need our help with water damage and fire damage restoration, call us at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240. We are Here to Help!

Meet Our Crew

Company Profile Certifications

Business Owners Must Plan for Mold Damage Remediation

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring is Here to Help!

Our certified technicians are trained in mold remediation. Mold in your business is a serious matter!

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring Addresses and Repairs Mold Damage

When mold is visible in your commercial building, you should take steps to correct the problem as soon as possible. Mold spreads fast, a minor mold infestation can quickly escalate into a significant problem. Signs of mold can include a musty smell, patches, discoloration, and leaks. It takes more than self-remediation to fix mold damages in your Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and Silver Spring home. 

Infestation causing pitting and other physical deterioration in materials should address the remnants of mold growth. In extreme cases, the materials lose their integrity, entirely necessitating replacement. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring handle both teardown and material repairs. The location of the mold is one of the factors our mold specialists use to determine the best approach.

The following are three categories for mold remediation: 

• Bathroom mold removal
• Basement mold remediation
• Attic mold removal

Mold is almost present everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Mold spores are microscopic, and are floating in the air, and may intrude on your property. Our certified SERVPRO technicians use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold from spreading. 

Our SERVPRO certified technicians will work around the clock to set up the equipment necessary for remediation. By setting up containment chambers, we can limit the amount of debris spreading to other areas on your commercial property. After removing the moldy debris and affected contents, we will apply antimicrobial agents to eliminate further growth.

We are mold restoration experts at SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring. We have the experience and advanced training that enables us to restore your property effectively and quickly. You can trust us to clean up and restore your property “Like it never even happened.”

You can learn more about our mold restoration process here.

Give us a call today at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240!

Advantages of a Pack-out When a Flood Occurs in Your Montgomery County Home

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is the #1 Leader in the restoration and cleanup industry

Flooding in your home is not the most favorable experience. Heavy rains cause serious damage and can cause water intrusion onto your property. If your home is affected by flooding, the structure of your home and your furnishing can be at severe risk. Montgomery County residents can improve their odds for a successful restoration by taking advantage of our pack-out and move-out services. 

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. A move-out will provide several benefits, including the following:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When the restoration process is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Pack-Out During Water Mitigation Restoration

When you have a disaster, one of the first things we do is send a team to sort and box your belongings. Our pack-out service is the process when we move out a customer’s contents to a secured location in our warehouse. We handle your items and furnishing with detail and care to avoid breakage and maintain a proper inventory of the contents. To ensure that everything is accounted for, we scan and catalog every item into our system before placing them in labeled boxes. 

We Restore and Clean Your Belongings

Our certified technicians use a range of cleaning techniques and proprietary products to restore your belongings as close as we can to their original condition. At our warehouse, our facility is equipped with an ozone chamber to eliminate any lingering odors. Textiles we work with include clothes, linens, and stuffed animals.

Fall Fire Safety Tips for Your Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and Silver Spring Home

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Don’t try it on your own. Trust SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring to respond quickly to your fire damage!

You Need SERVPRO’s Certified Technicians Against Fire Damage in Your Montgomery County Home for Best Results

Plan ahead this fall season to help ensure it is safe from potential fire hazards. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and injuries. You may ask yourself what is the leading cause of fires in a kitchen, and it is unattended cooking fires. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when you are using the stove. 

• Stay alert and in the kitchen when you are broiling, boiling, frying, and grilling foods
• Keep any flammable items away from the fire, including wooden utensils, food packaging, hand towels, and or oven mitts
• Remember to use a timer to remind you that you are cooking food.

Fire Pit & Grilling Safety

When you are doing outdoor cooking activities, consider the following to keep it a fun but safe time for all your family members:

• Always have a fire extinguisher or water source nearby.
• Never leave the fire unattended.
• Keep all loved ones at least 3 feet away from the fire, including children and pets.
• Make sure ahead of time that the wind conditions are not severe. Wind can make it hard to light a fire and can blow the fire to surrounding structures.

What Should I Do If The Unfortunate Happens? 

No matter the cause of the fire damage in your Montgomery County home, it all requires urgency. To lessen damages to your property, call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring as quickly as possible. Before the fire department leaves, make sure to find out whether your home is structurally sound and safe for entering. If it is not safe for you to enter, call us and make arrangements for fire restoration services. 

What Happens During The Restoration Process?

All fire damage events are a little different and require a different solution. However, the general process of fire restoration stays the same. SERVPRO certified technicians organize efforts as follows:

• Board up missing windows, walls, and place tarp on damaged roofs
• Remove remaining water and complete the drying process
• Remove smoke and soot from all surfaces 
• Clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire
• Replace drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or major reconstruction repairs

When a fire leaves a mark on your property and personal items, contact SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240. Certified technicians have both the equipment and experience to make it “Like it never even happened.”

How Can I Prevent Water Damage in Montgomery County?

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

When you need reliable water mitigation services call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring.

No Matter the Cause For Your Water Issue, SERVPRO Certified Technicians can Provide Water Mitigation to Lessen Damages to Your Montgomery County Property.

Water intrusion is never a pleasant experience for a homeowner, manager, and tenants. It is crucial to be proactive so that your Montgomery County property can return to its original state as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring staff have the experience and certifications to help lessen the overall damage, resulting in a less financial hit. 

Preventing Floods and Leaks 

Our water mitigation team in Montgomery County can help you prevent damages from floods or leaks. The worst thing about water damage is that it can happen at any given moment. Let’s take a look at some of the most common causes of water damage. Potential Scenarios that lead to water damage include the following:

• Roof Leaks
• Severe storm weather
• Washing machine water supply line leak
• Cracks in foundation
• Fail sump pump 
• Moisture behind walls 
• Leak and broken plumbing
• Toilet clogs 
• Condensation from AC and more

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring are ready to respond immediately to your water, fire, mold, and storm damages. After you call us, we immediately start extracting water and help keep moisture from traveling to other areas. We have an on-call team available 24/7 for emergency services. Call us at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-1166.

What should you expect when you call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring?

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential & commercial properties.

We are on call and provide 24/7/365 emergency services.

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring provide our local communities with disaster response and emergency services. We respond quickly to our Montgomery County residents to facilitate an efficient cleanup and restoration. When you call our 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240 numbers, you can expect to hear back within a few minutes. During the call with one of our fantastic office staff, we will begin to assess your situation, dispatch a project manager to your location, and begin to inspect and address your damages. 

Reducing recovery time and costs

Upon the project manager's arrival, you can expect a call notifying you that our team is on their way to help. The project manager will either inspect or start the mitigation process immediately. Beginning the restoration process, we will reduce damages and overall costs to the insurance company.

Property walkthrough 

Once our certified technicians have completed the walkthrough, they will determine the best approach moving forward. SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring technicians will provide you a plan to make you aware of the next steps. Our team's quick 24-hour response will allow us to begin mitigation as soon as possible to prevent any further damage before we start work on necessary repairs.

Get a quick quote for your business or home repair from an IICRC certified company. Contact SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring at 301-530-7400 or 301-588-2240. Our phone lines are available 24/7, all 365 days a year. 

Flash Floods In Montgomery County - What to do?

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO Chevy Chase/Silver Spring specializes in Fire and Smoke Restoration - contact us at 301-530-7400.

A few weeks ago, the Montgomery County area was hit by intense storms and flash flood warnings. Have you ever wondered if your home or business is safe in the event of a flash flood? You may believe that a flood will not affect your property, yet everyone is in a flood zone regardless of where they reside. 

Tips for when storms and flash floods are in our area:

• Stay on high grounds! Stay away from low areas where water from a storm can accumulate.

• If you have to evacuate, remember to pack all of your essentials, including your insurance policy, your insurance company contact information, toiletries, and emergency fund.

• For emergency, information updates check your local news.

Preventative steps to take:

Install a rubber roof underlayment - if you are replacing your roof. A rubber roof underlayment is a great preventive step to have in the event of severe weather. A rubber roof underlayment installed can prevent leaks and water from coming inside your property.

Keep it clean - make sure your gutters and drains are cleaned out regularly. Remove all debris, including leaves, twigs, and branches, to keep them from clogging and overflowing into your property.

Keep a battery-powered sump pump - to pump water out of your property. In the event of a power outage, a sump pump running on electricity will not work. If you have a battery-powered sump pump, you will not run into that issue, ridding your home of excess water.

If your property is affected by a flood, you should contact our certified technicians at SERVPRO to restore the water damage. Do not let water damage take control of your daily routine. We are about our local communities, and we care about you. SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO Chevy Chase / Silver Spring provide a quick and efficient response. If you have questions regarding fire or water restoration and what we do, call us SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring 301-530-7400.

Is Your Commercial Space Ready For Heavy Rain?

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Call us when you need restoration services SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring 301-530-7400

The same storm that caused so much damage in the South is on it's way to our region. Of course it won't be as dangerous for our area, but it is expected to bring heavy rain.

Have you done everything possible to prepare your business for flooding?

Water leaks or flooding can create costly damages to your business and even force you to close your doors until the problem has been resolved and cleaned up.

If your building has floor drains, be sure that they are not clogged in case of flooding.
Catching a problem early can save you thousands of dollars worth of water damage repairs and possible mold remediation.

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring responds quickly to your fire, water, or mold damage emergency, 24 hours a day. Whether the damage occurs in a small business building or a big box store, we have the training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation.

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

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

Call us when you need restoration services SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring 301-530-7400.

Storms And Intense Lightning In Montgomery County

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month. SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring 301-530-7400

Stormy forecasts ahead, make sure you understand the power and danger of late summer storms in Maryland. According to the Maryland Emergency Management Agency such storms usually affect Maryland in the late spring, summer or early fall, but can happen any time cold and warm air masses collide.

About 2,000 thunderstorms are in progress around the world at any given moment with lightning striking about 100 times every second. Lightning can, and does, strike twice.

Each year lightning kills 80 - 100 people and injures hundreds more. Thunderstorms and lightning are very common for Maryland.

Thunderstorms often come up suddenly and can present a variety of hazards, including power outages, heavy rains, hail and wind.

Professional Restoration In Montgomery County

If you experience storm damage to your home or business call SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring 301-530-7400.

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Whether your home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best.

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring 301-530-7400

Fire Rescue Improvements In Bethesda Chevy Chase

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring (301) 530-7400

In case you haven't heard, fire rescue in our area has gotten even better.

The Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad put a new, state-of-the-art ambulance in service at the Chevy Chase Fire Department on Connecticut Avenue. It marks the first time in the rescue squad’s eight decades that BCCRS will staff an ambulance at the CCFD Station 7. According to the BETHESDA-CHEVY CHASE RESCUE SQUAD.

The Rescue Squad’s EMTs, paramedics and firefighters will continue to staff EMS and heavy rescue units at its headquarters on Battery Lane in downtown Bethesda, as well as an ambulance at Bethesda Fire Department Station 26 on Democracy Boulevard near Montgomery Mall.

The new ambulance, A707, will enhance the emergency medical coverage for Chevy Chase and surrounding communities in Montgomery County and reduce ambulance response times to emergency incidents.

If you have fire damage give us a call after the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad has left the scene.

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring - Professional Restoration

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

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring (301) 530-7400

Storms And Heavy Rain Could Mean Area Flooding

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies

Heavy Rains, Flooding And What It Means For Your Home

As storms continue to pass through the area flooding becomes a possibility.

Did you know that it only take 1-2 inches of water to begin damaging your property?

Storms and heavy rains can cause heavy flooding in such a short period of time. A perfect example of this is in Louisiana. They had 2 feet of rain that fell consistently for 3 days, and within a 72-hour time span the streets were flooded. The National Weather Service is warning that rivers will stay in flood stage for days

Flooding means that not only will a homeowner have to think about the current situation of being displaced from their home and losing some of their personal belongings, but the results after the water is gone. Standing water is a breeding ground for bacteria.

Once the water has subsided the presence of dirt, grime, bacteria and mold will be present. The level of these things depends on how long the standing water is left unattended.

After the waters have subsided and before you immediately enter your home refer to this checklist.

1. Watch out for wild animals, poisonous snakes that may have entered the home, check thru the debris.

2. Watch out for plaster, loose ceiling structures and document everything for yourself and for insurance purposes.

3. Throw away any food, anything that may have come in contact with the flood waters, anything in the fridge.

4. Check electrical systems, gas leaks, sewage and water lines all for damage.

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring 301-530-7400

If Pets Are Part Of The Family They Should Be Part Of The Plan

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring 301-530-7400

Planning For Severe Storms, SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring

If pets are a part of your family you take care of them each day. If you have a storm plan for your family, did you consider your pet? The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) suggests including your pet in storm planning to avoid issues when storms or hurricanes hit.

Make a Plan

If you have a plan in place for you and your pets, you will likely encounter less difficulty, stress and worry when you need to make a decision during an emergency.

THINGS TO INCLUDE IN YOUR PLAN:

¦ Know what to do with your pet during an evacuation . Many public shelters and hotels do not allow
pets inside. Know a safe place where you can take your pets before disasters and emergencies happen.

¦ Develop a buddy system. Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is
available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so.

¦ Have copies of your pet’s vaccination record, and make sure your pet is microchipped. Keep your address and
phone number up-to-date and include an emergency contact outside of your immediate area.

¦ Keep contact information for your local emergency management office or animal control office and shelters on
hand in case you become separated from your pet.

Calling In Professional Help After The Storm

If you have storm damage like flooding or other water damage call the professionals, SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring 301-530-7400.

It's important to take care of water damage before it becomes a bigger problem, like mold. It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments.

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

Water Damage In Your Home Needs Immediate Attention

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Serious Water Damage In Montgomery County

Water damage in your home needs immediate attention. Whether it's caused by storm flooding or a leaky pipe water damage needs immediate attention. If you don't address the situation quickly you could end up with serious issues like mold in your home. Trying to deal with water damage in your own can be tricky. The best solution is to call in trained, experienced professionals.

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring is the answer to water damage in your home or business.

When responding to a water damage emergency, we begin with a detailed inspection of your home or property, including a damage assessment. At this stage, our professionals are trying to determine the scope of the damage so that we can develop an appropriate plan of action.

We will identify the category and classification of water damage to ensure our professionals restore your property based on industry guidelines. The level of contamination of the water will affect the specific restoration processes we use.

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 3: "Black Water"

We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration. We will also inspect for safety concerns that may be evident. If there are any safety issues like lead or asbestos, please bring them to our attention.

Survey Damage

Complete Safety Inspection

We move furniture and property contents and block items to help prevent rust or furniture stains on wet carpet.

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

Ready When You Need Us

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including all holidays.

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring (301) 530-7400.

The Bethesda Fire Department Has Been Protecting The Community Since 1926 And They Have A Few Cooking Tips For You

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

According to the Bethesda Fire Department, cooking is the number one cause of home fires and home injuries.

Here are a few things they want you to know

Unattended cooking is the leading factor in home cooking fires.

Ranges accounted for the largest share of home cooking fire incidents.

Frying poses the greatest risk of fire.

Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires.

Two-thirds of home cooking fires started when food or other cooking materials caught fire.

Understanding Fire

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred.

The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting.

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring (301) 530-7400

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Read time: 1 minute

SERVPRO provides 24-hour fire and water damage restoration service

SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for every size water emergency. When coping with water damage, it is important to act quickly. A few hours of delay will significantly increase the severity of the water damage.

We know that when you call us, you might be confused, stressed, or vulnerable. You need the assistance of a professional to help you navigate this situation. SERVPRO specializes in water damage restoration.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask you a series of questions about your water damage emergency. These inquiries will assist us in determining what equipment and services to carry, as well as how many qualified SERVPRO Professionals will be required.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact details
• Your insurance details (if applicable)
• The water-damaged home's or business's street address
• When was the flooding or water damage that occurred?
• What was the source of the water damage (if known)?
• Is there power available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring

SERVPRO specializes in repairing residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage incident. Our team is well-versed in property damage repair. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to routine IICRC-industry certification, you can be confident that our staff is prepared to restore your land.

Water Damage: Clean Water vs. Contaminated Water

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

Don't leave your property to chance if you have water damage. Call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring. In the meantime, take the following steps to help mitigate or avoid more harm as you wait for help.

Damage from Clean Water:

• If necessary, turn off the water supply or contact a trained professional to do so.
• If access to the power distribution pane is protected from possible electrical shock, turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the house.
• Using a mop and a blotting motion, remove as much excess water as possible.
• After removing lamps and tabletop pieces, wipe excess water from wood furniture. Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

Damage from Contaminated Water:

• Avoid any interaction with sewage and sewage-contaminated products and do not walk through contaminated areas because you can spread damage to unaffected areas.
• If there is a risk of spreading dirty air, do not turn on the HVAC system.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow may disperse pollutants. If exposed to polluted areas, discard any food and/or items for personal hygiene and cleanliness.

Note: If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult your local health department or physician.

The Top 3 reasons your Roof might be leaking

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Roofs are often prone to water damage, which can lead to structural and mold problems if not handled. Water can penetrate building materials surrounding a roof in many ways, the top three of which are:

• Water tanks that are overflowing or dripping
• Condensation in your house
• Gutter and downspout clogs

Most roof leak problems can be avoided by performing routine inspections of the attic/roof area on a regular basis.

If you notice damage and need skilled repairs, contact SERVPRO.

We Pick Up the Phone, Ready to Help!

Call Today

We recognize that when you call us, you might be confused, stressed, or vulnerable. You need the assistance of a professional to help you navigate this situation. SERVPRO has the specialized water damage expertise and experience to assist you through this difficult period. We specialize in water damage restoration; in reality, it is the foundation of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask you a series of questions about your water damage emergency. These inquiries will assist us in deciding what equipment and services to carry, as well as how many qualified SERVPRO Professionals will be necessary.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

Your name and contact details

Your insurance details (if applicable)

The water-damaged home's or business's street address

When was the flooding or water damage that occurred?

What was the source of the water damage (if known)?

Is there power available (on-site)?

Small Toilet Leaks = Major Problems

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

Small toilet leaks can quickly escalate into major problems with your house.

We've all seen it: the first hint of a leaking toilet when cleaning the bathroom. Water may affect a bathroom floor due to a slow drip in the supply line, dripping around the base of the toilet, or condensation from a loose joint.
Small toilet leaks can quickly escalate into major problems with your house. If the leak persists, it may damage the subfloor and, in some cases, the framing. Inspections of your home's toilets regularly will detect leaks until they cause harm that must be fixed.

If you come across a repair that needs professional assistance, Call SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

We know that when you call us, you might be confused, stressed, or vulnerable. You need the assistance of a specialist to help you handle this situation. SERVPRO has the advanced water damage expertise and experience to assist you through this challenging period. We specialize in water damage restoration; in reality, it is the foundation of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask you a series of questions about your water damage emergency. These inquiries will assist us in determining what equipment and services to carry, as well as how many qualified SERVPRO Professionals will be required.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact details
• Your insurance data (if applicable)
• The water-damaged home's or business's street address
• When was the flooding or water damage that occurred?
• What was the source of the water damage (if known)?
• Is there power available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring

SERVPRO specializes in restoring residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage incident. Our team is well-versed in property damage repair. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to routine IICRC-industry certification, you can be confident that our staff is prepared to restore your property.

Learn More About Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists >

Water Damage Restoration for Commercial Properties

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Water can flood a commercial space in a variety of ways. Perhaps a pipe burst or a sprinkler device fails and starts dumping water overnight, causing high levels of water to increase. Extreme weather can also cause unwanted indoor moisture to reach a commercial building.

When it comes to water damage mitigation, extracting water is important. During the extraction process, SERVPRO's water removal technicians use the best equipment available in the industry.

Learn more about our Water Damage Repair and Restoration >

Our Process

First and foremost, when our team arrives on the scene of an emergency, we make certain that the work environment is secure for our technicians, staff, and the company. At that point, we begin the cleanup process by removing as many hazards as possible from the region. Entry to areas that are not protected is limited. To emphasize dangerous areas, caution signs are posted.

The root of the issue has been resolved. A plumber is called to repair the problem if it is caused by defective sprinklers or a pipe break. If rainwater enters the building through a broken or exterior wall, we will board up the hole for you so that the moisture is fully blocked and will not enter the building again.

We then begin the extraction process with either a portable or truck-mounted extractor. Portable extractors get used for places that are difficult to get to or if parking a van at your business is impossible. Portable extractors weigh 40 to 90 pounds and they hold 5 to 12 gallons of wastewater with a vacuum power of lifting approximately 12 feet of water in height.

Truck-mounted extractors are used for large-scale projects involving large volumes of water. Vans equipped with extractors park near an entrance to your house, and the vacuum hose is drawn in for extraction. Truck-mounted extractors weigh 500 to 1,100 pounds and have waste storage tanks capable of holding 60 to 100 gallons. These extractors have greater vacuum lift capabilities and can extract up to 16 feet of water.

About SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring. offers 24-hour services. We will complete the water extraction work during non-business hours. This procedure does not have to impede the company's operations. The water is extracted one small portion at a time. This also allows for a portion of your building to remain open at all times. Call SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring and at 301-530-7400 for expert assistance with water removal from your building so that we can take care of your industrial water extraction problems “Like it never even happened.”

Protect Your Pets From A Fire

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Help to save your pets and consider these tips when leaving your home

Keep pets close to the entrances while you're away from home.

Keep your pet collars and leashes ready in case your pet needs to be saved by firefighters

When you leave your pets home alone, keep them in areas or rooms near the exits where the firefighters can quickly spot them.

Save rescuers time by attaching the pet warning window to the cling and write down the number of pets inside your house and connect the static cling to the front door.

Prevent Your Pets from Starting Fires

The National Fire Protection Association estimates that almost 1,000 home fires are accidentally caused every year by pet owners. The American Kennel Club and ADT Security Services have joined forces to provide the following tips:

• Extinguish Open Flames
  Pets are typically curious about cooking appliances, candles, or even a fire in your fireplace. Ensure that your pet is not left unattended by an open flame and ensure that any open flame is absolutely extinguished before you leave your home.
• Remove the stove knobs
  Be sure to remove the stove knobs or protect them with the covers before you leave the house-the stove or stove is the number one piece of equipment where your pet can start a fire.
• Invest in Flameless Candles
  These candles have a light bulb rather than an open flame, and they take the danger of your pet knocking on a candle. Cats are famous for starting fire when their tails turn on lit candles.
• Protected Young Pets
  Keep them protected from potential fire hazards when you're away from home, such as in cages or behind child gates in secure areas.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Because each situation of smoke and fire damage is slightly different, each needs a unique solution tailored to particular circumstances. We have the tools, skills, and experience to repair fire and smoke damage. We will treat your family with love and respect, as well as your property with care.

Do you have questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call us at 301-537-7400

Be Storm Smart, Be Storm Ready

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Read time: 1 minute

Severe weather can happen at any moment, anywhere. Every year, Americans cope with the average of the following violent storms*:

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,000 tornadoes
• 2 landfalling, deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98% of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, resulting in about 500 deaths each year and about $15 billion in damages. * Knowing the risk of extreme weather, taking action, and being an example are only a few actions you can take to be more prepared to save your life and help save the lives of others.

Know Your Risk.

The first step to being weather-ready is to consider the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how weather can affect you, your company, and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, get NOAA Weather Radio, and read more about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in several ways, and your shelter plan should cover all kinds of local hazards.

Take Action. 

Take the next step in extreme weather preparedness by designing a communication plan for your home or company. Put together or buy an emergency kit. Keep confidential documents and valuables in a secure location.

Be an Example.

Once you've taken steps to plan for extreme weather, share your story with your colleagues and family, and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your tale of preparedness will encourage others to do the same thing.

Facts provided by Weather.gov

Storm Warnings 101

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Read Time: 1 minute, 6 seconds

Storm Alerts can pop up anywhere: TV, mobile phone warnings, radio, etc., but do we understand what these warnings mean? Know these meanings so that you are prepared for any storm:

Different Storm Warnings

Tornado Watch

Conditions are ripe for tornadoes in the watch region. Tornadoes associated with hurricanes and tropical storms are usually a major cause of death and injury.

Tornado Warning

Visually or on the radar, a tornado was detected. Usually, it was given for a county. If a tornado WARNING is released where you live, GET THE MIDDLE OF THE LOWEST FLOOR OF THE STRONG BUILDING IMMEDIATELY!!!

Severe Thunderstorm Watch

Conditions are ripe for severe thunderstorms in the watch region.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning

There is a severe thunderstorm in or on the way to the warned area. Treat this as a warning tornado!

Flash Flood Watch

Flash floods are likely to take place in the near future. Be alert to rising water and be prepared to evacuate to high ground.

Flash Flood Warning

Flash floods are occurring or expected to occur in the near future. If this happens, get to high ground immediately, and GET AWAY FROM VEHICLES... it only takes 18 inches of water to sweep a car or truck away!

High Wind Advisory

Windy conditions may be present in the advisory region. This usually results in unsafe driving conditions, especially in (but not limited to) large vehicles. Also, avoid sailing anywhere in the advisory area.

High Wind Warning

Windy conditions may be present in the advisory region. This usually results in unsafe driving conditions, especially in (but not limited to) large vehicles. Also, avoid sailing anywhere in the advisory area.

SERVPRO Again Named Top 10 Overall Franchise in Nation, #1 in Category

3/7/2021 (Permalink)

Hard work pays off! SERVPRO returns to Entrepreneur Magazine’s top 10 overall franchise in the nation, plus  #1 in the cleaning and restoration industry for the 21st year!

“During a year when many businesses were negatively impacted, slowed, or closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the SERVPRO system of MVPs adapted and took the brand to greater heights based on our collective goal—to help people in their times of greatest need and make it "Like it never even happened," CEO Rick Isaacson said.

When stadiums, shopping centers, and small business owners started calling SERVPRO to disinfect their properties, we moved quickly to launch a new program. We began to develop a COVID-19 disinfecting protocol with insight from industry groups.  Next thing you know, businesses started posting "Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned" badges in their windows and on their websites.

Learn more about the "Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned" program

“When COVID forced much of the world to slow down or step back, our team stepped up and did what it took, whether that was cleaning businesses so they could reopen safely or disinfecting first responders’ vehicles – many of those at no cost – to give back to those working every day to keep us safe.” CEO Isaacson continues.  

While we honor being named the 10th best franchise system in the country, we're not going to rest here. We will continue working tirelessly to reach our goal of becoming the #1 franchise system on the planet!

3 Tips To Protect Your Business From A Flood

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

Your company can be at risk if flooding occurs. Floodwaters will force their way into your building and cause damage to floors, walls, and inventory if they are strong enough. If you know a flood is on the way, there are a few things you can do to protect your business and limit the damage that a natural disaster like this might cause.

Make Backup Copies of Important Data

If you suspect your building would be damaged by a storm, data backup should be a top priority. If your computer system is destroyed by flooding, shipping documents, customer data, and inventory records can not be retrievable, so having several archives of this information will save you time and money in the aftermath of the flood. For real-time data retrieval, consider cloud storage.

Rent a Sump Pump 

If you suspect your building would be damaged by a storm, data backup should be a top priority. If your computer system is destroyed by flooding, shipping documents, customer data, and inventory records can not be retrievable, so having several archives of this information will save you time and money in the aftermath of the flood. For real-time data retrieval, consider cloud storage.

Do Not Hesitate To Act 

Flood damage can occur quickly, especially during flash floods. If you think anything like this is going to happen, immediately evacuate your business and make sure your customers and employees are safe. This form of a flood can be caused by heavy rainfall, so stay alert and keep an eye on the weather in your area for any watches or warnings. If you suspect a flood, turn off critical systems and attempt to close off doors and windows until the building has been evacuated.

You may be concerned about the best way to protect your company if flooding occurs. Knowing how to react and plan for a flood, on the other hand, will help you minimize the damage and give you peace of mind both before and after the disaster.

We Are Here To Help Montgomery County

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

We have the rare opportunity to assist property owners in a number of ways here at SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring. Disasters come in a variety of sizes and shapes. We've seen almost everything in our three decades of experience. We can't tell anything because we continue to learn new stuff even after decades of assisting our neighbors in Montgomery County. However, there are a few disasters that we always deal with.

Water Damage 

Water damage may occur from a variety of sources. To name a few common causes, there are burst pipes, malfunctioning equipment, human error or negligence, and ground flooding. We have a plan to get you back to life “Like it never even happened,” regardless of the cause or the epic tale that explains it.

Fire and Smoke Restoration 

A fire can be a major annoyance, but it is not the end of the world. You'd be shocked how much of your personal property can be returned in certain cases. We will clean and deodorize everything in your home or company, including family heirlooms, papers, and even the walls.

Mold Remediation 

Mold can be a problem in our region of the country due to the naturally high levels of humidity. If water infiltration is not adequately addressed, mold can develop. We not only provide remediation facilities but also mold monitoring and preventative measures like crawl space moisture barrier installation.

Bio Hazard Clean Up 

This aspect of our work is unpleasant to discuss, but it is often important. We have the necessary training and expertise to properly clean up any environment where blood-borne pathogens may be present. Trauma and crime scene cleanup are examples of these events.

Trust the #1 Company In the Cleaning and Restoration Industry!

SERVPRO was named Entrepreneur Magazine’s  #1 Franchise in the cleaning and restoration industry for the 21st consecutive year! These aren't the only programs we have. To be honest, whatever man or nature can throw at a system, we can more than likely help restore it.  

We are IICRC Certified!

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) develops industry standards and offers restoration companies training and certification. The IICRC Certified Logo may be displayed by IICRC Certified Firms.

IICRC Certified Firms must

Consumers should be given correct information, and businesses should be conducted with fairness and integrity.

On all jobs, a technician who has been professionally trained and passed all requisite tests is required.

Require technicians to participate in a continuing education program to stay up with industry shifts.

Maintain liability insurance to ensure that all parties involved are covered in the event of an accident.

Maintain a formal complaint policy and consent to BBB or equivalent arbitration to settle disputes, as well as endorse the arbitration's findings and recommendations.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

For professional carpet cleaning, water damage repair, and mold remediation, the IICRC has been a guiding force in defining the key industry standards and reference guides. It takes years for the IICRC to establish these requirements, which necessitate the collaboration of specialists in the field, including manufacturers, business associations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

The criteria are reviewed and revised every five years. As technology and science progress, the water damage rehabilitation sector evolves at a rapid rate, and standards must evolve to keep up.

About SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/Silver Spring

After a fire, smoke, or water damage case, SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring specializes in cleaning and restoring residential and commercial property. We are an IICRC-certified firm with highly qualified workers in property damage reconstruction. We believe in ongoing training, so rest assured that our staff has the expertise to restore your land, from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to routine IICRC-industry certification. So when your business needs an emergency restoration service, don’t wait, call us!

3 Commercial Water Damage Claims That Might Not Be Covered

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Water damage repairs cost a lot of money for a handful of businesses in Montgomery County.  There are several water-related damages that are exempt from standard commercial property policies. Here are a few damages that could cost business owners to pay out of pocket after water damage-related incidents.  

Flood Water Damage

Floods can be devastating to companies, and while insurance can cover some of the costs, there are some that are not recoverable. Here are four ways that flood damage will negatively impact businesses

• Loss of Revenue
• Business Premises Closure
• Loss of Power and Data
• Stock and asset losses

Flood damage is not covered by most commercial property insurance plans. As a result, business owners may want to consider purchasing commercial flood insurance to help protect their company from future flood water damage repair costs.

Damage Caused By Slow Leaks 

Most insurance policies only cover "sudden and unintentional" damage, not regular plumbing maintenance. Business owners who ignore an apparent slow leak for long periods before the water damage reaches dangerous levels can face a liability dispute, according to insurance executives.

Freezing Pipes

Many commercial water damage claims are the result of frozen water pipes. When a pipe freezes, water may slow to a trickle or not flow at all. Unfortunately, the pressure inside the pipe from expanding ice may eventually cause the pipe to burst.

Most commercial insurance policies will cover damage from a frozen pipe burst. However, If a business owner failed to protect their business, the insurance may not accept the claim. Usually, policies require that heat be maintained inside the business property. Some policies require that maintain a certain temperature. If the business owners did not take care to repair the commercial property to avoid freezing, they may not be eligible for insurance coverage. This includes water damage clean-up, water damage repairs, drying/dehumidification, water removal/water extraction, or household appliances.

Fire Damage Prevention- What Some Experts Fail Warn You!

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

As a family-owned franchise, we understand the significance of keeping our family and loved ones safe. According to the NFPA,  "In a five-year period, house fires caused 2,620 civilian deaths and $6.9 billion in property damage".  Most fire casualties occur in the kitchen. Here at SERVPRO, we honor our commitment to being a resource to Montgomery County. We want to make sure that our community is taking preventive measures to avoid home fire casualties.  Follow the tips below to avoid common kitchen accidents.

Recipe For Kitchen Safety:

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking food and check on it often. 
• Keep children away from the kitchen while you're cooking.
• Clean cooking surfaces to prevent food and grease build-up.
• Keep curtains, towels, and pot holders away from hot surfaces.
• Store solvents and flammable cleaners away from heat sources. 
• Never keep gasoline in the house.
• Turn pan handles inward to prevent food spills.
• Be sure electric cords from your appliances are not dangling off the counters. 

Smoke Detector tools

• Replace your smoke detector every 6 Months
• Clean off any dust on the unit as it may interfere with the sensor
• Make sure your smoke detectors are working.
• Discuss with family members a fire escape plan
• In the event of a fire or smoke damage, please call SERVPRO to help get your home or property back to normal.

Prevent Catastrophic Damages To Your Business During A Flood

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage can occur quicker than you ever expected. Depending on the floods' severity. it can cause flooring, wall, and inventory damage. However, if you know that a flood is imminent, there are ways to protect your business by minimizing the destruction a natural disaster can create.  

Make Backup Copies of Important Data

If you believe your building could suffer from storm damage, it is crucial to back up your data. This includes shipping records, customer data, and any inventory records that may not be retrievable if your computer system is damaged by water. Having more than one copy of your data can save you a lot of time and money during the aftermath of a potential flood. Consider cloud storage as a solution for retrieving real-time data in the event of a storm.

Rent a Sump Pump

If your business location is at risk of a flood, consider investing in a sump pump. This machine is commonly used by flood damage and restoration service technicians to drain excess water from the impacted area. Portable and underwater pumps will ultimately reduce the amount of standing water you may encounter after a flood.

Do Not Hesitate To Act

In the event of a flood, evacuate your customers and employees as quickly as possible to ensure their safety. It is important to be vigilant regarding staying up to date on any flood watches or warnings. If a flood has a chance of taking place, shut down all vital systems and try to seal off all doors as well as windows once the building has been evacuated.

Knowing how to prepare for a flood and protect your business will not only reduce the damages but will also give you peace of mind before and after the event of a flood. Use these helpful tips to your advantage when preparing for a flood and avoiding the detrimental impact it could have on your business.

Top 3 Reasons Why Your Roof Leaks

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Roofs are susceptible to water damage, which can lead to structure and mold issues if not addressed immediately. There are several ways water can infiltrate building materials surrounding a roof. Here are the three most common reasons why roofs leak:

Water pipes leaking or dripping.

Condensation accumulating inside your home.

Clogged gutters and downspouts

Routine attic and roof inspections can help avoid any roof leak issues. If you spot damages and need professional repairs, please call SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring
Faster to Any Size Disaster for help.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment we will need to bring with us as well as how many SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring
Faster to Any Size Disaster team members we need to help clean up the damages.   

Call Today

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring
Faster to Any Size Disaster has specific water damage training and experience to help you through such a difficult time. We specialize in water damage restoration. In fact, it is the cornerstone of our business.

Our professionals will likely ask for the following information:

• Your name and contact information.
• Your insurance information (if applicable).
• Street address of the damaged home or business.
• When did the water damage take place?
• If known, what caused the water damage?
• Is there electricity on-site?

If you have a roof leak in your home, don't wait, call us today, and we will make it "Like it never even happened." 

Winter Storm Damage 101: What To Do After A Storm

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

As we have seen the unprecedented winter storm damages in Texas, it is clear that severe winter storms can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home.  Heavy snow or ice can cause flooding and powerful winds can cause roof damage and downed trees.  Some post-damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a plan to deal with the damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately following the storm.  

• Take Safety Precautions

• Photograph the Damage

• Contact Your Insurance Company

• Contact Local Restoration Company

Take Safety Precautions

Heavy snow and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls, or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health effects. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact your local SERVPRO Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Springto help do basic tasks to secure your property and make it safe to use. If necessary, arrange for an alternative place for you and your family to live while your property is being restored to safe living conditions.

Photograph the Damage

If it is safe to move around your property, use your cellphone or a camera to photograph the damage so that you will have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure that you are fully compensated.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made.

Your Restoration Company

• Whether it is a business or residence, the restoration company will come to your property and their trained experts will do a thorough examination of the interior and exterior of your building. This will help them discover the level of the damage. In many cases, the restoration company will discuss the renovation plans with you and your insurance adjuster.
• When everything is agreed upon, the work begins. Depending on what type of damage is present, this will determine the type of equipment the professional will use. In the case of flooding, they will use specialized pumps and vacuums to remove water from the affected areas.
• Generators will be brought in to operate their dehumidifiers and air movers so mold and mildew do not have a chance to make matters worse. Using customized cleaners, the specialist will then disinfect hard surfaces and shampoo salvageable carpets as well as apply deodorant to combat any odors.

We hope that this guideline will help as we are navigating thought this though weather in Montgomery County. On behalf of our SERVPRO staff, we wish all fellow Texans health and safety during this time. 

Fire & Smoke Damage: Do's And Don't

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fire & Smoke Damage

DO

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep your hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant. 
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.
• Change the HVAC filter, but leave the system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or of the HVAC system
  
  

DON'T:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electric shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Do's and Don't: Flood in Home Edition

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Do's and Don't after a Flood by SERVPRO of Bethesda Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring

Water Damage In My Home: What Should I Do?

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Anyone who has had the misfortune of experiencing water damage whether from a flood, malfunctioning appliance, or any other source can tell you that it poses a real problem. This is because it damages not only your home and potentially your finances, but in many cases, it also can damage the sentimental items that you can’t put a price tag on. For that reason, it’s a good idea to know the cause of the damage. However, if you cannot avoid it then here are some tips on what to do once you have been victimized by it.

The first concern should be the safety of all persons in the affected home or area. Some of the most common causes of injury that we see after water damage to a structure include slip hazards and electrical shock due to careless handling of home appliances that have been damaged by water. On this note, don’t just go about your day as you would normally. Avoid kitchen appliances, and avoid tampering with major electrical devices that are connected to the building until authorities have deemed that it is safe to do so. This includes ceiling fans, lights, and televisions.

The next concern should be the cleanup process. Depending on the severity of your damage you may need to contact the local authorities and insurance provider, but eventually, they will most likely get a SERVPRO crew out to your location to fix it up.

Learn more about your options regarding water damage, or any of the other services that we offer at SERVPRO®. If you find yourself dealing with a disaster, and need an emergency repair, contact us today. We are faster to any size disaster!

Stay Organized at Work!

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Divide Your Workspace Into Zones:

Determine how you want and need to use the space and set up zones for your daily functions. You may require a workspace for your computer, a library area for your research, a storage area for supplies, and a filing area for your archives. This will provide a foundation for more efficient use of space.

Keep Only What You Need At Arm’s Length:

Boxes of pens, stacks of papers, and old coffee cups need to go. Rid your desk of visual clutter by paring down the items on top to the essentials only. Supplies, paperwork, and personal items should be kept in the zones you’ve established for them.

Sort Your Catch-All Drawer:

Use drawer dividers to give everything a place, like compartments for paperclips and rubber bands. Go through the drawer every six weeks and clear out anything that is out of place or isn’t being used.

Eliminate Digital Clutter:

Digital clutter can be just as stressful as physical clutter. Organize digital files and your e-mail inbox just as you would paper files – with a system of logical and clearly labeled folders. Also, keep the icons on your desktop to a bare minimum, and trade in sticky notes on your monitor of calendar reminders.

Create A Daily Paper System:

Consider creating hanging files or baskets labeled “To Read,” “To Do,” and “To File.” Establish set days for each, so that you don’t get behind or feel the overwhelming need to do everything at once.

Disinfect Regularly:

Prevent the buildup of dust, dirt, food stains, and fingerprints. Wipe down your desk, phone, keyboard, and monitor once a week with disinfecting wipes.

Tips provided by Forbes, The Dangers of a Messy Desk.

How To a Restore Sewage Backup In a Commercial Property

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

When a toilet floods in a commercial property, the resulting water damage may affect more than one floor. If water works its way down through building materials, it can lead to significant sewer damage that requires restoration. There are five steps you should take to clean up the damage and restore your property to sanitary conditions.

1. Clear the Clog or Backup

Depending on whether the toilet is flooding due to a clog caused by inappropriate materials being flushed or a backed-up sewer line, you may need to contact a plumber or sewage company. Until the problem is fixed, the leak may continue or become worse.

2. Remove Standing Water

Limit the severity of the leak between floors by eliminating all standing water near the flooded toilet. You will still need to determine the extent of the damage to building materials such as floors and ceilings. 

3. Consult SERVPRO Specialists

Our commercial water and sewer damage restoration experts can help you determine which materials will need to be replaced. These experts can also help with cleanup and remediation.

4. Clean and Disinfect the Area

Toilets that flood tends to lead to a leak of Category Two or Category Three water. Category Two water or gray water may contain bacteria or chemicals but does not contain solid waste. Category Three or black water contains solid waste. Either type of leak calls for thorough cleaning and disinfection.

5. Dry the Affected Area

Take measures to dry the area affected by sewage damage as quickly as possible. This can help to prevent mold and other secondary damage from starting to develop.

When you experience sewer damage in a commercial property rely on the skills of SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring professional. Our specialists can resolve the problem quickly and completely, enabling the tenants of the building to get back to business.

Comfort Food Season! | Tips On Practice Fire Safety in the Kitchen

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Practice Fire Safety in the Kitchen

As the weather gets cooler and we get into Fall and Winter, many are ready to do some comfort food cooking. Whether you're a pro or new to the kitchen, it's important to remember fire safety. Emergencies can happen to anyone. Below are some steps to ensure safety while cooking this season. 

What you should know about home cooking safety

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Preventing Water Damage During Construction

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

A building doesn’t have to be fully constructed to have water damage. Construction projects are often delayed by water pipe repair and the subsequent damages a busted pipe causes. To keep your construction business in, as profitable as possible, you want to prevent the flooding you can and mitigate the rest quickly.

The Cost of Damage

Any delay during a project can cost you money. When you have to stop construction because of a broken pipe, there are several expenses involved:

• Extra labor needed to conduct the repair and rebuild the damaged area
• Mitigation charges from professional water remediation services
• Additional materials needed to rebuild the damaged section

Non-monetary costs of the delay may include damage to your reputation and potentially impatient client response. Your insurance may cover some of the financial burdens, but repairing the relationship with your client is your responsibility alone.

The Prevention of Damage

Timely water pipe repair is a great solution, but it’s even better to avoid flooding in the first place. Before construction begins, create a plan for careful on-site water management. Institute a drainage system, and test pumps and plumbing before major work begins. During construction, it’s easy to let your plan fall to the wayside, so hire people to make sure your team follows the guidelines you set forth. They should monitor piping systems and help keep the air pressure in the pipes under control. Finally, keep water mitigation specialists on speed dial to ensure that, if there is a problem, you can get it resolved before a large area of your site is flooded.

Preventing water at your construction site increases the chance that you may never have to worry about water pipe repair. By keeping water sources closely monitored and structuring drainage systems wisely, you are more likely to stay on schedule, and that helps you please your client.

Tips to Create a Solid Business Continuity Plan

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

A wide variety of vulnerabilities in your business may lead to loss of income and customer loyalty when a disaster occurs. A business continuity plan also referred to as an emergency response plan is a technique you may use to identify and prepare for potential problems, keeping your activities running with the least disruption possible.

5 Steps To Create a Plan
To make the process easier, the creation process is broken down into five steps. Consider each part with your business’s needs.

1. Business Impact Analysis: This is a questionnaire that allows you and your managers to assess potential emergencies and the materials required to deal with them. Preparation, distribution, and evaluation of results are usually necessary elements of this first step in your business continuity plan.
2. Recovery Strategies: These are plans that allow you to analyze resource needs, the gaps between the required resources and those currently available, managerial choices of strategies to be used, and action on those decisions.
3. Plan Development: This is the laying out of the actual emergency response plan, the arrangement of teams to implement recovery from the disaster, production of documentation, and approval by management.
4. Training: This is the preparation of the team responsible for continuity actions.
5. Testing and Exercises: This is the creation of training and evaluation materials, which are then tried and implemented.
   
   Value of the Plan for Your Business
   
   An emergency response plan provides a clear, deliberate, and well-thought-out way to deal with potential disasters at your business facility. Employees and management should be trained in the procedures that should make a crucial difference in the rapid recovery of your business.

Kitchen Fires: Four Risk Factors

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

STOVE Make sure the stove is clean before cooking to reduce the risk of grease fire Make sure you clear anything flammable from heat ex. dish towels,

Kitchen Fires: Four Risk Factors

While every home should have a smoke detector in the kitchen, there are several other tips for keeping your home and yourself safe when cooking. From rolling up your sleeves and tying back your hair to keeping flammable materials, like paper towels and dish towels, away from the stove, cooking safety is essential when it comes to fire prevention. However, many homeowners can be complacent about the following four risk factors. 

1. Appliances 

fire damage is devastating, but the fact that so many fires are caused by faulty or mishandled appliances is shocking. Appliances, if not maintained, are a leading cause of home fires. Be sure to service all your appliances properly. Additionally, unplug small countertop appliances as they draw electricity even when not in use, which can lead to overheating.

2. Too Much Oil or Grease

One of the most overlooked cooking tips is to use less oil and grease. In cooking, a little goes a long way when it comes to these two substances. Using too much of either can lead to grease fires which, if left unattended, can get out of hand quickly. It is important to remember not to throw water on a grease fire because it will only splash the pan and cause the fire to spread, instead use salt or baking soda. For other possible ways to extinguish a grease or oil fire, call a fire remediation specialist in the Bethesda/Potomac area.

3. Spills

Another common cause of many kitchen fires is a dirty stove or oven. Always wipe up spills immediately and clean cooktops after use. Leftover grease, oil, or food can ignite on the burner, causing a fire. This is another reason why it is essential to keep an eye on food as it cooks because these types of fires require a quick response, or they can spread quickly. 

Unfortunately, while the kitchen is the heart of the home, it is also the most likely place for fires to begin. The above tips offer several suggestions for helping you maintain a safe and fire-free home.

Common Water Damage Problems for Commercial Properties

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

For a commercial property owner, unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Bethesda/ Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring professionals can help you assess, clean, and repair damages from any flooding or leaks you may have. Here are a few of the most common water problems a business may face from leaking pipes to foundation cracks.

Common Water problems

Pipe Breaks

A pipe break can occur in several ways. Over time, the pipe can age and loosen in its fittings, or extensive use can lead to pinhole leaks. Extreme heat or cold can also affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and eventually burst.

Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can even lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. When a pipe is blocked, water can take the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages can occur from many things, including the buildup of water minerals over time inside a pipe or someone pouring a solidifying material, such as plaster or grease, down a drain.

Weather

Extreme weather conditions can also lead to leaking pipes. Cold temperatures can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand. The expansion puts pressure on the pipe and can create a crack or even cause it to burst all together. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with your local SERVPRO of Bethesda/ Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring professional about what preventive measures to take.

Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can also become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues such as mold. Any cracks should be investigated and assessed as soon as possible to determine the best course of action. Water damage can happen to a commercial property. Fortunately our SERVPRO of Bethesda/ Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring, professional can fix the damage caused by leaking pipes, foundation cracks, backed up toilet, or weather, and help you repair your property.

Why SERVPRO of Bethesda/ Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring

Our Technicians are Highly Trained

We specialize in water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We have extensive water damage restoration training, and our process emphasizes regular monitoring and documentation of the drying process from beginning to end.

We Are Equipt To Handle Any Water Loss

Using specialized equipment and products, our technicians extract standing water and dry your property quickly and efficiently. We then finish the job with professional-grade cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing products for your comfort and safety.

Here to Help

SERVPRO of Bethesda/ Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring is your local expert in water damage services. You can trust us to handle your property professionally and with care, no matter the size. Call today to make your loss “Like it never even happened.”

CALL US 301 530 7400

Residential Fires | Smoke and Soot Facts You Need To Know

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Water Damage Emergency in Montgomery County | Who Are You Going To Call?

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO  provides 24-hour fire and water damage restoration services.

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

Faster To Any Size Disaster

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

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase / Silver Spring

We Are Here To Help 24/7, 365 days

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

Water Damage Emergency | SERVPRO of Bethesda/ Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring is Here To Help 24/7

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today 301 530 7400

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About  SERVPRO of Bethesda/ Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring

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

Do You Have Dirty Ducts?

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Title with a photo of a dirty duct

Improve Your Indoor Air Quality With Duct Cleaning

Did you know your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? Inspecting ductwork in your facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of our Professional's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. Our  SERVPRO of Bethesda/ Potomac and SERVPRO of Chevy Chase/ Silver Spring Professionals will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke, or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, your SERVPRO Franchise Professional can restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

If you have a fuel-burning furnace, stove, or fireplace, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning. 

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System is proven and cost-efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, we use a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

• The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct's shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
• Next, powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfer the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean. 
• As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
• Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

What's In My Ducts?

Over time, different contaminants or foreign objects can enter and collect in your air ducts that may diminish the indoor air quality of your home or office or cause other damages to your HVAC system.

• RODENTS
• INSECTS OR PESTS
• DUST
• DIRT 
• DEBRIS
• BACTERIA
• MOLD 
• POLLEN

Why SERVPRO

Whether it is a business or residence, SERVPRO is equipped to come to your property and our trained experts will do a thorough examination of your ventilator. For quality service, you can trust SERVPRO professionals to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Document Drying and Restoration

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO  offers a variety of services from water/fire damage restoration, mold mitigation, and commercial/residential cleaning services. But did you know that we also provide Document Drying and Restoration for our commercial clients?

Damage from a water or fire event is not limited to the building and furniture. Sometimes files such as patient records, invoices, and legal documents are impacted by water, smoke, and soot contact. SERVPRO’s document drying process is designed to stabilize damaged documents and prevent further damage quickly. The treatment facility is secured, the chain of custody follows HIPAA guidelines, and our Drying Chamber personnel is Master HIPAA certified allowing them to handle protected health information (PHI).

Our Document Restoration Facility:

• Innovative: we use the latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing
• Secure: managed by HIPPA Master-certified technicians, under 24/7 surveillance
• Digital: we use a computerized inventory system for digitizing your documents
• Flexible capacity - we can accommodate large commercial losses or small residential jobs
• Full Service: we offer a range of services including drying, cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing, and deodorization

SERVPRO document services also include digitization services that reduce the need for large filing rooms and help make data access more accessible for businesses. Certified destruction services allow for sensitive information to be appropriately disposed of and provide peace of mind to businesses and their clients.

Types of content:

• paper documents
• books and magazines
• manuscripts and files
• photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
• x-rays
• blueprints and maps
• parchment

When Disasters Happen, We Are Here To Help.

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

When you are a business owner, insurer, or property manager, you can have the opportunity to be a leader in your community by setting an example for your employees and customers.

Join your community in preparing for all types of emergencies and disasters. It is important that your entire community as a whole is prepared. Disasters happen and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods but entire communities including businesses of all sizes.

As an employer in your community, having a business continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees, and its infrastructure, and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster. We must all work together as a team to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship, and neighborhoods are ready. At Ready.gov/business, businesses can find information on how to be better prepared. You can also contact SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac for information on the Emergency READY Program.

Teaching Kids about Preparedness

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

We have reached the final week of National Preparedness Month! This week we are focusing on teaching the younger generation about preparedness.

One of the toughest jobs as parents is talking to your kids about difficult topics. There’s so much nonsense in the world that you want to keep from your kids and ensure that their innocence is protected. However, we know that the world doesn’t stop for anyone, and the best way to protect them is through proper education.

Addressing difficult topics, such as emergency preparedness, can empower your kids, and strengthen the family bond. Also, there are many opportunities to turn an educational lesson to fun and engaging exercises that your kids can enjoy.

FUN WAYS TO TEACH KIDS ABOUT PREPAREDNESS

• Practice your emergency plan: role-playing will ensure that your kids understand what do to in times of emergency. You can take turns being the emergency plan leader and see who remembers your family plan best.

• Treasure hunt: Hide some emergency supplies around the house and for every tool they find and correctly describe the purpose of the supply, they get a special treat!

• Make a Song: Bring out your best rhyming skills and create a step by step jingle of do’s and don’t. It can put your child at ease and could help them remember during a time of a crisis 

• Get Creative: You know your family best! Create a game the whole family can play that you know your child will love and learn from.

Children face particular vulnerabilities during a disaster, however, they do have unique abilities to prepare themselves as well as their families, schools, and communities. Educating the youth about preparedness helps them become a positive influencer, become leaders, and help them become future prepared adults.

If You Can Gaze Into the Future... | Preventing Accidents at Home

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

We’ve approached week 3 of the National Preparedness Month. This week, We will discuss the importance of preparing for disaster.

Wouldn’t it be great you knew a disaster was coming before it happens? Just imagine, you’re sitting down, enjoying your meal with your family. Then suddenly, you get an odd flash in your eyes and you’re able to catch a glimpse of your ruined basement that has been flooded by next week’s hurricane. Now that you know what’s going to happen, you’d set yourself up however you can, and immediately!

But, unless you’re a Disney Channel character, you probably don’t have psychic abilities. However, there are simple ways to prevent accidents from becoming catastrophic or from happening at all. Here is a comprehensive suggestions list to prevent further damages.

Preventing Accidents At Home

• Make an emergency plan
• Changing smoke detector batteries as soon as they die
• Have your wiring installation checked at least once every five years by an approved contractor, or straight away if you are buying an older property
• Opening windows and turning off suppliers if you suspect a gas leak
• Taking out built-up lint from the dryer vent  
• Have electric blankets serviced and checked regularly
• Never leave any pans unattended while cooking. 

Despite how trivial these suggestions may be, many accidents could have been avoided if simple tasks would have been implemented. But until you’re able to see into the future, we strongly encourage preparing for the worst. Lastly, as always, if you need any additional help while dealing with home damages, SERVPRO is always here to help.

For more information on how to prevent an accident at home visit https://www.rospa.com/Home-Safety/Advice/General/Preventing-Accidents-in-the-Home.aspx and ready.gov

Have You Checked Your Emergency Toolkit? | Basic Supply List To Help You Survive A Disaster

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

We’ve reached Week 2 of National Preparedness Month! This week we will focus on building a Disaster kit. If you haven’t assembled a tool kit, you should consider creating one, and fast! According to III.org, September is the most common month for hurricanes in the United States. Luckily, Hurricane Laura wasn’t able to reach Maryland; However, we are still vulnerable to wreckings of natural disasters. Thunderstorms and high winds are inevitable in the late summer season, which means there is a higher chance that you might experience a power outage or other damaging inconveniences. Below, we suggest some items to keep in your toolkit to help deal with a disaster.

Basic Survival Kit Supply List 

• Plastic container to store all your items
• Enough water bottles and Nonparchiable food for the household to last you 3 days
• Portable charger (solar panel options are highly recommended)
• Extra batteries
• Fully stocked first aid kit
• Local Map
• Glowsticks (Highly recommended if you have kids, a good way to keep them entertained)
• Battery-powered fan
• Fire Extinguisher 
• Blanket or Sleeping bag
• 4-1 Emergency Tool Kit
• Sanitary Wipes
• Feminine supplies and other hygiene items
• Your favorite source of entertainment!

Now, these are just common items that we recommend to the general public, but we encourage everyone to customize their toolkit to best fit their household. Consider the unique needs of your family members, such as the elderly, infants, or pets. Lastly, we recommend that you check your toolkit periodically, to make sure you have the necessary tools to face an unexpected power outage. For more information please visit https://www.ready.gov/kit 

Is Your Family Prepared For The Next Emergency?

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Logo for National Preparedness Month provided by ready.gov

September is National Preparedness Month! (NPM). This month we will be promoting family and community disaster planning.  Each week we will highlight a specific theme to help you stay proactive and safe. 

Week 1: Make a Plan

Each region of the United States deals with different natural disasters. Therefore, each household must know the most common national disaster for that area. Each emergency plan will be different. So, with the help of ready.gov, we provided a guide to help with strategizing your custom Emergency Plan.

Step 1: Communicate with household members

Make sure all household members are present during the meeting, to eliminate any misunderstandings.  Establish important protocols such as

1. Best way to receive emergency alerts/warnings
2. House shelter plan
3. Evacuation route
4. Household communication plan
5. Creating or updating emergency preparedness kit
6. Review the Centers of Disease Control (CDC) Coronavirus prevention guide and update the proposed plan if necessary.

Step 2: Understand the specific needs of the household 

As you craft your emergency plan, make sure it is a realistic plan for each member.  Here some factors to take into consideration when executing your plan

• Did you assign a designated assistant?
• Does the emergency food fit everyone’s dietary needs? (Diabetes, Baby Formula, Vegan, etc.)
• Does your first aid kit reflect everyone medical needs (Extra Inhaler, Epi-pen, Vital Medications, etc.)
• Does the plan respect each house member’s cultural and religious consideration? 
• Did you think about the Pets/Service animals?
• Is the proposed plan functional for each member? ( Disabled members, infants, and young children, etc.)

Step 3: Fill out the Emergency Plan

A PDF Emergency plan for parents is available for download at ready.gov/plan, Or you can write your own.

Step 4: Practice, Practice, Practice 

Hold practice drills with all household members with different scenarios.

If you’d like more information about disaster planning, please visit ready.gov. Stay safe everyone!

Fire Safety

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Clothes dryer fires happen more often than one might think, accounting for 16,800 home structure fires in 2010 and doing more than $236 million in property damage according to the National Fire Protection Association. The most frequent causes of fires in dryers are lint/dust (29%) and clothing (28%). In washers, they are wire or cable insulation (26%), the appliance housing (21%) or the drive belt (15%).

Dryers were involved in 92% of the Washer/Dryer fires; the risk of fire was basically the same for both gas and electric-powered dryers.

Safety tips:

• Clean the lint screen frequently and don’t run the dryer without it.
• For gas and propane dryers, make sure there aren’t any leaks in the lines.
• Vent the dryer to the outside of the house and ensure nothing blocks the vent pipe.
• Clean the vent pipe and the area where the screen is housed.
• Keep the area around the dryer free of combustible materials.

Unexpected Water Damage

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

What to Expect

When you call us, we will ask questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring. This includes how many trained SERVPRO professionals we may need.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask questions:

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

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac is here for you 24/7 all 365 days of the year. Call us at 301-530-7400.

Faster to Any Size Water Damage

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides 24/7/365 fire and water damage restoration service.

We do not wait for regular business hours. SERVPRO provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

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

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

If you need further assistance with your water damage, please call SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac at 301-530-7400.

Commercial Building Storm Damage

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

When preparing for an upcoming spring storm, protecting your home is the priority and something you should take seriously. As a business owner, you have to do double duty because it is crucial to ensure that your business is as secure as your home.

Here are a few ways to help you avoid storm damage to your commercial property:

1. Watch, Listen, or Read

By watching the local news channel, listening to the radio throughout your commute, or reading a weather app on your phone, you will know exactly what is coming your way as well as how to prepare for it. 

2. Protect the Property

Be knowledgeable about where your pipes are located. With a quick visit to the hardware store, you can gather insulation supplies for the pipes that are easy to reach. Hate the drip, drip, drip from a leaky faucet? In the event of a cold front that brings freezing weather, turning the faucet on to a drip can help you avoid a potential serious and costly pipe break. This is because the drip keeps the water moving in the pipe and does not allow it to sit and freeze. When left alone, the water can freeze and expand, and this pressure is what will break a pipe.

3. Ask for Help

Utilize others’ knowledge on how to keep your business safe. Know who you can call to help prevent damage or to fix an already broken pipe. Save the phone number of a cleanup and restoration company in your phone contacts for quick reference in case of an emergency.

No one wants to deal with the headache of storm damage or a pipe break. By being prepared and creating a plan for your business, you can ease the burden of an upcoming winter storm. Your business storm strategy can also be easily applied to your home so that you won’t have to worry if a storm hits while you’re at work.

The Fire is Out, Now What?

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

Residential and commercial fires are unpredictable and can be devastating.

Hopefully you have given thought to fire prevention for your home. In addition to taking these steps, you have also developed an escape plan with your family. In the unfortunate case of a serious fire, would you know where to turn after the fire crews leave?

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac, 301-530-7400, is the simple, effective solution. We'll respond quickly and get to work restoring your property.

One of the first steps in our fire damage restoration process is the inspection.

Without proper and careful inspection, we cannot be sure of risk factors in the environment, the extent of damage, critical utility locations, and numerous other important factors. Inspection can sometimes be a lengthy process, as SERVPRO inspectors have to look for and catalog many different factors.

Here are some of the things that we look for in homes that have taken fire damage.
 
Structural Instability
 
One of the most important considerations when inspecting fire damage is structural stability. Fires, as they burn through supports and other structural components, can create unstable conditions and high potential for collapse. Our technicians look for signs of structural weakening to ensure the safety of both you and SERVPRO technicians, such as warped walls, burned columns, caved-in ceilings, buckled door frames, and scraping between doors, windows, and their upper frames. Any of these may be an indicator of a weakened structure, so knowing of them before any work begins has the potential to save lives.
 
Spots for Tarping and Boarding
 
Immediately following inspection, our crews move in with tarps and boards to seal up any windows, doors, or holes in the home that leave it open to the elements. Inspectors look for these openings and compose plans to seal them most effectively.
 
Damage Inspection
 
Of course, the central part of any fire damage inspection is what has been hurt, and how much. Inspectors will catalog items, surfaces, and areas which have taken damage, describing in detail for our other teams how bad the situation is and what factors caused it. From there, our technicians can work to apply appropriate cleanup processes and measures. If you have used our ERP (Emergency Ready Profile) system, this process may be greatly accelerated as our inspectors will have access to plans and inventory lists beforehand.
 
SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac works with you to get fire damage cleaned up quickly, cheaply, and with the minimal safety concern. Call us at all hours at 301-530-7400

You Can Count on Team SERVPRO

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

When commercial property owners and managers are expected to produce excellent business operations and a disaster strikes, it can be an overwhelming experience for these individuals. SERVPRO has completed some of the area’s largest disasters including the Pentagon clean up after 9-11, the U.S. Treasury, NIH, Francis Scott Key schools, Georgetown University, Howard University, and the Department of Health. We also assist with any industrial services. Facility managers love working with SERVPRO and rely on us for their disaster solutions.

General adjusters and consultants in D.C. Metro area trust SERVPRO with their largest losses and overwhelmingly complicated claims.

Some of our specialties include, but are not limited to:

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military
• Universities
• Schools
• Restaurants
• Commercial Disaster Recovery Services 
• Commercial Reconstruction

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO is here to make it seem “Like it never even happened.” Choose SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac as your team who will assist you with any future disaster.

We Are Cleaning Experts

3/19/2020 (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 45 years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform daily.

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 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 Bethesda / Potomac at 301-530-7400

Puffback Prevention

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

For those who live in colder parts of the United States, there are home appliances that play a critical role when it comes to your furnace. A quality furnace can ensure optimal comfort inside your home while minimizing the amount of energy you consume at home. Even a top-quality furnace will not provide consistent results if you do not maintain it properly.

Those who neglect regular furnace servicing may find themselves dealing with a wide variety of issues, including a common problem such as a puffback. Here are some key points to know about your furnace at home and how it could produce a puffback when it is least expected:

1. What is a Puffback?

Puffbacks are explosions of soot and smoke caused by improper furnace ignition. They typically occur when excessive amounts of fuel vapors accumulate inside of your furnace’s burner chamber. When the furnace ignites, these vapors explode. Fortunately, this explosion does not have the force to put you and your family at risk. However, over time, a puffback can make a serious impact on your HVAC system.

When an oil burner does not ignite immediately, excess oil builds up within the combustion chamber. The fuel could then ignite explosively, like the backfiring of a car. Depending on how much fuel has built up in the chamber, the result can range from a small explosion to a cloud of oily smoke.  

This disaster poses the greatest threat due to the excessive amounts of soot and smoke they produce. Over time, soot builds up on the inner surfaces of your furnace and heat exchanger, often leading to problems such as corrosion and clogged burner nozzles. The worst aspect of a puffback is that both soot and smoke will find their way and impact your home’s air quality.  

2. Oil and Gas Furnaces Can Have Puffbacks

Puffbacks can occur in both natural gas and oil-burning furnaces. All furnaces have the capability of accumulating fuel vapors in the combustion chamber if it is not properly maintained. With that said, a puffback poses a more common problem for oil furnaces.

Fun fact, oil furnaces have greater maintenance needs. A neglected oil furnace will accumulate issues that lead to a puffback at a faster rate. Furthermore, oil furnaces tend to experience more severe puffbacks. Heating oil dissipates at a lower rate than natural gas. This will ultimately allow it to accumulate in greater quantities.

3. Issues Leading Up to a Puffback

A puffback may stem from a variety of furnace problems, many of which relate back to a lack of maintenance. The most direct mechanism of puffback involves leaks in or around the furnace’s combustion chamber. These leaks allow fuel to trickle into the combustion chamber even when the furnace is not running. As soon as the burner turns on, fuel will ignite.

A puffback can also be due to the exhaust flue or chimney. If exhaust gases cannot vacate the system quickly enough, they will remain inside of the furnace. This specific scenario alters the delicate pressure balance needed for proper combustion, changing the air-fuel ratio and leading to a puffback. Such pressure problems may cause additional damages to the heat exchanger.

Puffbacks frequently happen as the result of clogged burners. When fuel cannot enter a furnace efficiently, misfires allow for fuel (that was not burned) to accumulate inside the combustion chamber. Finally, puffbacks may stem from excessive dirt ignition electrodes. A dirty electrode may fail to generate the spark needed for combustion, instead of allowing fuel to puddle inside of the furnace.

As a result, the mess of soot and debris will be mixed with oil. It can quickly spread throughout your home, covering cabinets, walls, furniture, and everything else you would never want covered in black, sticky grime. In addition to the mess, puffbacks contaminate the air and surfaces with unhealthy material. The consequences can be unpleasant, but SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac can work with you in the cleaning and restoration process of your home and belongings.

Should a puffback occur, here are some helpful tips to follow:

• Assess the damage
• Wash all affected clothing and throw out exposed food
• Contact a technician to repair the malfunctioning furnace
• Contact SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to quickly restore your home to its original state. If you need someone to help with any type of smoke, soot, or fire damage, our high trained technicians will by there to start the restoration process. For more information about what it takes to manage a puffback and prevention steps towards avoiding an expected disaster, please reach out to us at SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac at 301-530-7400.

Cleaner Air Makes for Healthy Employees

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

Think about the air quality you breathe regularly: both indoors and outdoors. Which type of air quality do you think is cleaner? If you believe the indoor air quality is cleaner as opposed to the outdoor air quality, think again. The EPA estimates that indoor air contains two to five times more pollution than outdoor air quality. Poor air quality causes problems such as reoccurring colds and sore throats or even headaches, asthma, allergies, and chronic fatigue. As a result, this could cause more employees to need copious amounts of down time ultimately leading them away from productivity.

When dust, debris, and other contaminants build up in your heater, ventilation system, and air conditioner, they can trigger allergies and other health issues. Additionally, these contaminants reduce your energy efficiency, which can ultimately increase your energy costs. These are two compelling reasons to confirm the air ducts and HVAC system in your workplace are running efficiently.

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. We suggest that you make it a priority to inspect the duct work of your home or business when it is being built. If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating at least one of the following unwanted contaminants throughout the space that which you spend most of your day breathing in:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and debris
• Other contaminants

SERVPRO professionals routinely inspect the heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) units. Keeping these machines clean not only extends the equipment’s lifetime, but it will also save money and time. This will, therefore, provide a better air quality experience throughout your everyday life.

Although, duct cleaning is not always necessary, we will at least make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. Additionally, this will boost the quality of air that is currently circulating your work environment that will contribute to your peace of mind.

Here are the benefits of servicing your HVAC unit regularly:

• Restores peak energy efficiency.
• May help eliminate offensive odors.
• Reduces the potential for mold growth.

At least one of these benefits should help you take a step in the right direction when it comes to maintaining a cleaner HVAC system. If you do not, it can become detrimental to your health.   

Do Not Succumb to a Storm's Norm

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

Floodwaters are known for carrying mud and silt from the exterior of a home to the interior. Water removal is critical when limiting the damages to the first onslaught of storm waters. Minimizing non-salvageable materials to contaminated elements that can be demolished and discarded is challenging.

As you can see in the picture to the right, floods carried mud and silt from the exterior of this home and deposited it onto the basement floor. This before and after picture illustrates what a residency can look like after a storm’s floodwaters create water damage as well as after SERVPRO restores the property’s basement. If you have recently experienced a similar situation with water or storm damage, contact SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac. We will assist you in anyway to help you recover from a disaster.

While in 45 years of business, we have saved our clientele and their insurance companies from inconvenience, stress, and spending additional money. With the help of our team carefully planning an execution strategy, we always tailor our strategy towards the size of the cleanup, no matter what the damages may be, “Like it never even happened.”

Pipes 101

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

Spring is right around the corner, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that cold temperatures will disappear immediately. Rather, temperatures will fluctuate in the coming months, with some warm days that are characteristic of spring, alongside some cold days. These variable temperatures can wreak potential havoc on your business through their effects on pipes, which can lead to water damage if they burst. Water within the pipes expands and contracts when temperatures fluctuate, which leads to increased pressure in the pipes. Pipes burst under this pressure. Because burst pipes can cause devastating water damage to your commercial business, it is important to understand ways in which burst pipes can be prevented in addition to the best deal with the water damage if pipes were to burst in your building.

Prevention

First and foremost, make sure that your business is protected by an insurance plan that covers water damage caused by burst pipes. The bottom line is, clean up services can be costly. Pipes that are located outdoors or in unheated places should be wrapped in insulated sleeves in order to prevent the water inside from freezing during cold weather. If pipes do freeze, it may be beneficial to let water run through the pipes in order to avoid bursting. Finally, checking pipes daily for small leaks is a helpful preventative measure to take, especially when temperatures decrease.

If Your Pipes Burst…

Immediately turn off water, electricity, and heating systems at the first sight of burst pipes in order to limit the damage caused by the ruptured pipes. Documents, inventory, and other important items should be moved to a safe location as soon as possible, as they can become damaged or destroyed in water in the wake of burst pipes. If it is safe to do so, check the building for signs of water damage, such as stains or discoloration, musty smells, or mold growth. It may also be beneficial to open doors and windows, as doing so allows air to move through the building, drying any damp areas and preventing the growth of mold or mildew. It is important for your business to quickly get back on its feet following burst pipes, so call SERVPRO in order to restore any impacted areas of your affected business by water damage as quickly as possible “Like it never even happened.”

The SERVPRO Vision

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

A first impression is important throughout your everyday life.  It is a more pleasant experience having a positive first impression as opposed to the challenge established by a negative first impression. For instance, a clean business “setting” is vital if your objective is developing a successful, long lasting relationship with your customers. 

SERVPRO can help you. In fact, we want to service your restoration needs and become your solution provider. Our vision is to be the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world while developing a team of quality people who focus on excellent service, fairness, and mutual respect.  

We are a trusted leader in the restoration industry providing 24/365 residential and commercial services. As a locally owned and operated business, we are dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. We have an extensive background in training, equipment, as well as expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. 

Not only can SERVPRO Bethesda / Potomac clean up the aftermath of the larger disasters, but we can manage and clean the small valuable items impacted by the disaster. This includes carpets, upholstery, drapes, and blinds. We can bring your older tile back to life and make your floors sparkle again. Furthermore, we can counteract lingering odors and perform deodorization of your property.

SERVPRO is always here to help for your restoration and cleaning needs. We can help maintain your place of residency or business and keep it shining while you continue to make countless first impressions.

Smoke & Soot Cleanup

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot are invasive and can infiltrate various cavities within your home, furthermore, causing hidden damage and odor. Our expertise within smoke damage allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage and develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Smoke and Soot facts:

• Smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may significantly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke—wet and dry; therefore, different types of soot and residue exist after a fire takes place. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage is present. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting.

Here are more details about the various types of smoke and fire residue:

1. Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

Signs: Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

2. Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

Signs: Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rise – therefore smoke rises.

3. Protein Fire Residue – produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

Signs: Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each situation is different, your fire damage requires a unique solution tailored to its specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will treat your family with empathy as well as the respect and care your property needs.

Being Aware of Commercial Property Damage

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

We do not want your business to have any type of damage. The bottom line is damage that has the potential to impact a residential property can also impact a commercial building.

Types of Damages

Storm: Damage caused by strong winds and heavy rain can remove roof tiles, break windows, plus more. Storm damages can be devastating and can cause delay in business.

Water: Water damage is typically due to burst pipes, floods, or rain. In any case, this can result in contaminated water affecting surfaces and furniture, but also mold growing and eroded belongings. Electricity and water damage quickly become volatile when combined.

Fire: Fire damage can result from a gas stove, faulty outlet, or candles and cigarettes that are not properly put out. This can also cause severe destruction to your property, which requires cleaning and restoration services.

Mold: As a highly unhygienic and unappealing, mold spreads quickly around properties as air-borne spores and remediation is very important to prevent it from rapid growth. Mold grows in any moist environment. Even that small leak under your office’s bathroom sink can eventually attract mold to grow.   

If you have any questions of a problem you may be having, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO Bethesda/Potomac at 301-530-7400.

Do's & Don'ts After a Flood by SERVPRO

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Proceeding water damage, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and “slip and fall” hazards are a prevalent concern.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform with the damage.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful lifting them!

Have A Water Damage Emergency? 

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

• What NOT To Do After Flooding
• Don’t leave wet fabrics in damaged areas. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don’t use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don’t use television or other household appliances.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet.
• Stay out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

How to Read Storm Warnings

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

With the help of technology, there are now several ways to receive storm warning alerts. The television, your cell phone, the internet, and radio are some of these sources where you can discover this information. The real question is if we truly understand what these warnings mean? You will find that knowing these definitions will be very useful knowledge in preparation for a storm:

• Severe Thunderstorm Watch – Conditions are ripe for severe thunderstorms within the watch area.

• Severe Thunderstorm Warning – There is a severe thunderstorm in or heading for the warned area. Treat this like a tornado warning.

• Flash Flood Watch – Flash floods are likely to occur soon. Be aware that water levels could rise at any point in time. Anticipate moving to a higher ground level.

• Flash Flood Warning – Flash floods are occurring or expected to occur soon. If this happens, get to a high ground level immediately, and stay away from vehicles. It only takes 18 inches of water to sweep a car of truck away.

• High Wind Advisory – Windy conditions may occur in the advisory area. This can make for unsafe driving conditions. Especially in (but not limited to) large vehicles. In addition, avoid boating anywhere in the advisory area.

• High Wind Warning – Very strong winds are expected or already occurring that present a significant danger while driving, boating, or any outdoor activities. Often issued near tropical storms and hurricanes.

• Tornado Watch – Conditions are suitable for tornadoes within the watch area. Tornadoes associated with hurricanes and tropical storms are typically a very significant cause of death and damage.

• Tornado Warning – A tornado has been spotted visually or on radar. Usually issued for a county. If a tornado warning is issued where you live, then proceed to the middle of the lowest floor of a strong building immediately.

SERVPRO Can't Stop the Flood, But We Can Manage the Damage!

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

Flood damage does not always present itself immediately. Damages can surface after a storm due to the quality of the flood water and the impacted property.

A fire in your home is preventable when the risk is lessened with enough precautions. Other similar types of damage can be controlled to an extent with the homeowner’s help. No matter what effort you put forth, flooding is uncooperative after taking place.  

Slower moving floods create fewer risks to those outside at the time of the flood. For instance, flash floods are catastrophically powerful enough to sweep cars away. Both types of floods can create bio-hazard risks in a home. If a home has been flooded, it must be cleaned to a sanitary state before anyone lives there again. 

SERVPRO cleaning and restoration services targets biological presences, microbial organisms, chemical compounds as well as structural damages. 100% of flood damages typically do not present immediately which includes electrical wiring in addition to waterlogged outlets. Chemical compounds such as various salts, fertilizers, sewage, motor fluids (such as gasoline, oil, brake fluid), and run-off from local factories can cause additional damages to a flooded property.

Gutting a home should take priority while restoring a residence to suitable living conditions. Furnishings can be cleaned to acceptable levels unless they have been submerged for an extended time period. This is detrimental when handling compressed wood products. Solid wood furniture is not as easily damaged; however, it is more likely to crack in places where two pieces of wood were fastened together. Fabric that covers upholstery can harbor pathogens such as mold and bacteria. Precautionary care must be completed when cleaning these items. If needed, special brushes may need to be used in order to preserve raised patterns while still cleaning the furniture piece adequately.

SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration: Start to Finish

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda and Potomac can handle any size fire loss from the initial phases of clean up to the final stages of restoring one’s property. We have an in-house construction team that completes the highest quality of work for SERVPRO Bethesda and Potomac in Maryland.  

After a fire, it is vital to clean your property as soon as possible. If there is any standing water, it will need to be extracted for the building’s structure to completely dry.   

After the removal of water, SERVPRO can begin the cleaning process. In most cases, air purification will need to be completed using air scrubbers. Additionally, SERVPRO has the necessary professional cleaning products to prepare the property for any remaining repairs.  

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out at any time!

What Happens to Your Solar Panels During a Storm

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Worrying about solar panel damage depending on the weather may not be your highest priority. Storms of all sizes have more than likely passed through the area at different points of the year. Most storms create little, if any, damage to your home. This does not mean you should not be concerned about the possibility of weather harming your home. High winds, rain, and other conditions have the potential to cause harm to the solar panels on your roof. It is important to understand what your home, including your solar panels, can withstand.

1. Hailstorms

Hailstorms are less likely throughout the DC Metro area. However, when they occur, it can create problems for homeowners. Having this concern for your solar panels when hail starts to fall is common. Installing solar panels under the suggestions provided below will ensure that they remain in good condition:

• The panels are made of tempered glass as well as a highly flexible material.
• The panels are built to withstand impact from rock, hail, or similar materials.
• Panels are usually only damaged from hail when stones hit the same spot repeatedly.

2. Wind

Wind may be even more worrisome than hailstorms, especially if you live in an area where hurricanes are common. While high winds can cause roof damage, they are less likely to cause panel damage. This is due to the solar panels being able to withstand up to 140-mph winds. Panels can therefore withstand most hurricanes and certainly weaker storms.

3. Storm and Rain

Installing high quality solar panels should ensure a lifetime of at least 25 years. These panels are well equipped to do their job effectively in the middle of severe weather conditions. 

When initially purchasing your solar panels, you may have wondered how they would succumb to the inclement weather. With high quality panels that meet the list provided above, you should not feel the need to worry about any damage to your solar panels, no matter how severe the weather is.  

Is Smoke Damage Covered By Insurance?

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

Are you dealing with smoke-related damage to your building? If your commercial building or the one adjacent to yours recently sustained a fire, you are most likely dealing with the aftermath of the event. You may be worried about making a claim with your insurance company. Is smoke damage a covered loss? Read on to learn everything you need to know about smoke claims that will help put your mind at ease.

Soot Damage and Insurance

Most of the time, smoke damage will be covered by your commercial insurance policy. This is often even the case if the fire occurred at an office right next to yours. However, there are some steps you should take to properly file your claim and increase your chances of being accepted:

1. Contact your insurance company to report the smoke damage and file a claim.
2. Assess your loss and prepare a smoke cleanup plan with the help of professionals.
3. Record proof of any damage and repairs through pictures, receipts, and other documents.
4. Prepare for the insurance adjuster to arrive for surveying purposes.

Following the steps above will increase the chances of restoring your property entirely. Having a solid plan in place will also make it more likely that your insurance company will approve your claim.

Smoke Cleaning Assistance

Creating an action plan for cleanup is one of the most important steps to the entire claims and restoration process. A reliable fire damage restoration company, such as SERVPRO, will arrive on an emergency basis. They will assess the situation and help you build a cleanup plan that will aim to reduce odors and eliminate smoke from your building.

Smoke damage isn’t easy to deal with and communicating with your insurance provider can be even more frustrating. Following the steps above and knowing where to turn for cleanup help can make your business’s post fire experience a more positive one.

Preventing Water Damage While Under Construction

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

A building does not have to be completed to undergo water damage. Construction projects are often delayed by water, pipe repair, and the subsequent damages a busted pipe causes. To increase profit for your construction business, you should take precaution and prevent floods in the first place.

The Cost of Damage

A delay during a project can cost you additional time and money. These are a few of the expenses you would have to think about when you may have to pause a project due to a broken pipe:

• The labor needed to conduct the repair and rebuild the damaged area.
• Mitigation charges from professional water remediation services.
• Materials needed to rebuild the damaged section.

Non-monetary costs of the delay include damage to your reputation and potentially impatient clients. Your insurance company may cover some of the financial burden, however repairing the relationship with your client will be your responsibility alone.

The Prevention of Damage

Timely water pipe repair is a great solution. Instead, wouldn’t it be nice to avoid flooding in the first place? Before construction begins, we suggest creating a plan for careful on-site water management. Develop a drainage system, and test pumps as well as plumbing before proceeding with any major work. During construction, it is easy to let your plan fall to the wayside. Hiring someone to assure your team follows the guidelines will create a much smoother process for everyone. The designated person should monitor piping systems and help keep the air pressure in the pipes under control. Finally, keep water mitigation specialists on speed dial to ensure that if there is a problem, you can resolve it before a large area of your site is impacted.

Preventing water at your construction site decreases you chances of having to worry about water pipe repair. By keeping water sources closely monitored and structuring drainage systems wisely, you are more likely to stay on schedule ultimately leading to more customer satisfaction.  

Water Damage To Your Sports Complex

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

With this focus on athletics being such a staple for the region, it is no wonder why there are so many sports complexes for youth and adults alike throughout the city. When a disaster threatens this facility, you might find that the full scope of the damage far exceeds what your maintenance department is able to repair or restore on their own successfully.

Running a sports complex is very difficult with water damage threatening specific areas of the facility. Professional restoration services can help you get these damaged areas back to their normal operating conditions more expediently, which aids you in being available for the community and individual players as needed.

Our SERVPRO professionals begin the restoration process by assessing the full scope of the damage to the facility, determining all of the areas that have gotten effected and the best approach to remedy it. This process also helps to identify where the water is coming from so that this source can get stopped and the damage to it repaired while the restoration steps are underway.

Considering that many of the sports complexes have expensive flooring in areas like basketball courts, racquetball rooms, and indoor soccer or football fields, getting the water out of these areas is a top priority. Ultimately the goal is to preserve the floor as much as possible, implementing equipment like large drying mats to penetrate below the surface and pull out lingering moisture that could warp or disfigure the flooring.

Commercial Property After Water Damage

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call, and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

How Critical Thinking Can Help Communication

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

It has been said that the definition of insanity is “doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results.” So how do you get a message across when the most direct way is not working, or the other party isn’t exactly receptive? You have to change the delivery of the message without changing the message.

The concept of making a message more receptive isn’t the same as hiding pet medicine in a treat, the point of adjusting the message is so that the other party comprehends the message not just accepts it. It can take a lot of creativity and critical thinking skills to “customize information for the audience.” 

Years ago, there was a hashtag on Twitter #ExplainAFilmPlotBadly that centered around describing a film’s plot without any significant details. It was just as much fun to decipher the movie as it was to come up with a description all of your own. I then tried using it to train a group of support reps on how to deliver a message to a customer if they did not seem to understand or accept it: saying no without using “no,” describing directions on a computer or phone, etc. And this method seemed to click with those that I trained even more so than the standard “say this not that” lessons. So the idea was itself an example of how it worked.

These exercises helped to jump start the trainees critical thinking on how they can change the message and improve their customer service skills and increased efficiency. And are a great way to see you can help get your message across the next time you feel like you are stuck in a loop with a customer, coworker, or family member

When the Power is out , The Generator Should stay Out

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Always place your generator Outside of the home for safety.

When the lights start to flicker one's first instinct is to grab the flashlights to be ready if the power goes out.

There is a large number of homeowners and businesses that own generators that can keep the vital systems in a building running.

The generators exhaust fumes very similar to your automobile. Making sure these fumes don't come back into your home is extremely important!

Generators should be placed Outside in order to exhaust the fumes out into the open.  Even putting the generator in the garage is not a safe practice, the generator should be outside of the home and venting away from any fresh air inlet.

When the power goes off and your property sustains property damage, call SERVPRO to do your repairs and mitigate the damage.

Why SERVPRO? 

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Seattle, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Large Loss Division

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether it’s a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. 

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Good thing we are one of these Commercial Large Loss facilities.

The Large Loss team consists of large-loss specialists that are highly trained. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and highly trained crews. 

Some of our clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include:

The Pentagon

Hospitals

Hotel Industry

Universities

Municipalities

Property Management

Water Damage- Clean and Contaminated

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

When you have a water damage, don’t leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac. Consider the following steps to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for help to arrive.

Damage from Clean Water:

·         Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.

·         Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock.

·         Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

·         Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

·         Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

·         Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

Damage from Contaminated Water:

·         Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.

·        Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.

·         Do not turn on HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.

·         Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.

·         Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

Fire Safety

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that 3 out of 5 home fire deaths are due to non- working smoke alarms? Have you checked yours? It is as simple as looking on the back of the smoke alarm for the date of manufacture.

It is recommended that you try and change smoke alarms every 10 years if not sooner to avoid problems.

To find out more information on fire safety visit the website of Fema:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

Why trusting a Restoration Professional After a fire is Very Important

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Because of the convection pattern that flames typically form during ignition, smoky residue saturates every opening. The soot constructs up in layers that may end up being solidified and tough to eliminate which is another reason to leave the cleaning to a specialist. When the cleaning teams do arrive, they promptly different salvageable items from charred debris, taking the things creating the strongest odors out for cleaning.

After a fire, wall surface areas can be harmed by soot. Non-water based cleaners need to be used to remove soot from walls. These kinds of chemicals should be handled by a specialist due to the fumes and toxicity. Water-based cleaning items can cause spots to bleed into plaster walls which is why a trained specialist should be left to deal with these chemicals.  

A restoration effort reduces the after-effects a blaze can have on the health of those who return in. If a homeowner does not have the property restored by a professional, the results can be found later on down the line. To an untrained eye they might believe the issue has been fixed, they experience the remaining impacts of indoor air pollution for numerous months later on in the form of increased respiratory discomfort.  

Companies like SERVPRO are leading experts in fire restoration. They are trained to help remove your belongings as well as cleaning and storing them until your property has been restored to its original condition.

Awareness Of Business Damage

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

We don’t want your business to have any type of damage, but the fact of the matter is that any damage that can affect a residential property can also affect your commercial building. 

Kinds of Damage

Storm: Damage caused by strong winds and heavy rain which can remove roof tiles, break windows and more. Storm damages can be very devastating and can cause your business to be put on hold.

Water: This damage can be caused by burst pipes, floods, rain or a number of other things. In any case, this can then result in contaminated water affecting surfaces and furniture, in mold growing and in items being eroded. Electricity and water damage are particularly volatile when combined.

Fire: This type damage can come from a gas stove, faulty outlet or a cigarette that isn’t properly put out. This can then cause severe destruction to your property which requires cleaning and restoration services.

Mold: This is highly unhygienic as well as being unappealing to look at. Mold spreads quickly around properties as air-borne spores and remediation is very important to prevent it from getting out of hand. Mold grows in any moist environment. Even that small leak under your office’s bathroom sink can eventually cause mold growth.

 If you have any uncertainties of a problem you may be having, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO Bethesda/Potomac. 301-530-7400

Build An Emergency Kit

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Whether if it is at home, in a business setting, or in your very own vehicle, it is important to be properly equipped with an emergency kit.

Now, the true question is what are the essentials needed to complete this kit? Ready.gov suggests having enough supplies to last you at least three days. In the state of an emergency, this is critical.

Below, you can find a list of items that we believe are necessary to include in your emergency kit:

• 3 day supply of non-perishable foods
• Water
• First aid kit
• Medication
• Fire extinguisher
• Hygiene products 
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• Chargers
• Clothes
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities 
• Whistle - to signal for help
• Pet supplies
• Infant formula and diapers
• Important documents such as insurance policies, IDs, and bank records in a plastic container

SERVPRO Is Ready For Any Disaster

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery team is ready for anything that happens. With a network of over 1,700 franchises, SERVPRO strives to be faster to any disaster. While in business for more than fifty years, our mission is to develop a team of people who focus on excellent service, fairness, and mutual respect. Our team is trained and equipped to handle fire, water, mold, and other specialty cleanup and restoration services. SERVPRO professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and are ready to restore and clean your property. Our disaster recovery team has responded to an abundance of disastrous events. In the aftermath of a disaster, our objective is to help make it feel "Like it never even happened."

Did you know?

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

Residues (such as burning plastics or the soot from furnace disorders) form long chains of ionized smoke particles that assemble in corners or at junctions of walls and ceilings which are called smoke webs!

The picture is from a fire damage that our large loss division assisted with out of state. The building had 35,000 square feet that was affected, it took our team a few weeks to completely clean the facility. 

Does your business have a plan? Check out these tips:

Protect your people : Your employees are your most important business asset. These tips can help prevent them from being injured in a fire.

• Fire Plans: Make sure your employees know what to do if there's a fire, including calling 911 immediately. Conduct a fire drill at least once a year to keep employees aware of your workplace fire safety protocol. 
• Evacuation Plan: In larger buildings, post a fire evacuation plan in several spots around the workplace. Never include elevators in an evacuation plan; always use the stairs. 
• First Aid: In case of fire injuries, your employees should be familiar with the location of the first-aid kit, which should be kept where possible hazards can occur most-such as in the kitchen.

Answering the Call

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

When Hurricane Harvey left his wake of destruction the Emergency Response Team from SERVPRO answered the call sending teams to . Taking supplies and equipment our teams went down to help the residents and were humbled by the generosity of a community that didn’t have any clue how they were going to recover financially, much less emotionally from the impact of the storm. Rescuees were evacuated by boats from their homes and neighborhoods, leaving everything behind, but the spirit of giving and resilience impacted the teams from Knoxville.

The long-standing relationship between SERVPRO and the insurance companies helped our teams make a big impact and quickly. The insurance adjusters were recommending people call SERVPRO because it was a name that they could trust. Our teams were able to start water mitigation quickly and come alongside homeowners and other countless volunteers to help these families begin to get some semblance of recovery started.

Imagine your home with six to eight feet of standing water with the rescue boat pulling up outside and telling you it was the last call. Our team was humbled time and time again meeting over a hundred different families that had met that fate and yet met our team with smiles on their faces. Unanimously our team was impacted, and have spoken so highly of these families since their return.

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac are professionals at serving you. That is why we are here, and that is what we do.

Exploring the Science of Drying

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know, there is actually a science behind the process of drying? The knowledge of psychometrics is essential to restoring a water damage structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and places a fan or two around the damage, professional service may be necessary. 

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

SERVPRO has been trained to use top-of-the-line equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals also use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

SERVPRO is proud to utilize a newly developed tool SERVPRO DryBook.

The SERVPRO DryBook is a proprietary tool allowing us to capture and track the steps of restoration project according to industry best practices and standards. This ensures your restoration is done properly and efficiently. It also improves results and restores your property at a faster rate, getting you back in your home sooner.

3 Things You Should Know About Electronics Damaged by Fire

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

3 Things You Should Know About Electronics Damaged by Fire

Recovering items that have been damaged by a fire in your home and staring the fire cleanup process can be a difficult. However, many people are unsure how to handle electronic items that have been damaged. There are several tips that can make it easier to handle and clean damaged electronics.

      1. Don’t Use Damaged                      Electronics

After a fire, you may be tempted to test out your electronics to see what is damaged and what still works. However, using electronics that have been impacted by soot and smoke damage can actually cause more damage to the items, and could potentially cause a fire. Instead of plugging in or turning on damaged electronics, try to avoid moving them in order to prevent further damage from occurring.

     2. Damage Can Be Hidden

Some electronic items may have visible marks that indicate the item has been damaged. However, electronics can often appear as if they are undamaged if the majority of the damage has occurred within the electrical components. Electronics that have been damaged by smoke are susceptible to overheating, so in the fire cleanup process, it’s often best to not use an item if you are unsure whether or not it has been damaged.

     3. Act Quickly

It is often possible for electronics to be restored, but time matters when it comes to restoring electronics. The longer an electronic item has soot in it, the more damage that is likely to occur. However, it can be hard to restore these items without the proper equipment. it’s often important to move the items carefully or have the items professionally removed to ensure that soot throughout the home isn’t disturbed.

Knowing that electronic items that are damaged shouldn’t be used, understanding that damage is not always visible and knowing to act quickly to restore your electronics can make the fire cleanup process easier. However, if you need assistance with the cleanup process, it could be useful to contact fire damage restoration professionals.

SERVPRO of Bethesda Potomac can handle a fire loss from start to finish

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO  can handle any size fire loss from start to finish. We have an in house construction team that does top quality work all over Las Vegas. 

After a fire it is important to get the home or business cleaned up as much as possible. If there is standing water, it will need to be extracted and then the structure will need to be dried. 

After all of the water is removed, SERVPRO can begin the cleaning process. In many cases there will need to be air purification through the use of air scrubbers. SERVPRO has all of the necessary professional cleaning products to get the home or business clean and ready for repairs. 

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at anytime. 

Sometimes your Kitchen just needs to Vent

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

We’ve all been there, it seemed like a good idea to cook the bacon on High heat but that Text from a friend or the person that distracted us from our stove was enough to make it happen.

“It” is that smell that enters your nostrils that makes your hard race as you run to the stove and turn down the heat.  As you fan smoke away from the pan you realize you’re spreading this smoke into other parts of the kitchen.  You reach for the fan and turn it on for the first time in a while.  

Cranking the knob up to high you look over at the smoke detector and the race is on.

“Will the fan suck up the smoke before it gets to the smoke detector and informs everyone in the house you’ve just burned the bacon?”

The Kitchen Fan is mostly a Reactive function in the kitchen.  It rarely gets turned on until smoke comes out of a pan or that pot of water starts to fog up the room.  

The perfect time to turn on the fan is actually Before you turn on the stove and start cooking.  The main purpose of the fan is to eliminate heat and odors from the cooking that you’re doing.  The moisture and odors tend to stick to the walls of your kitchen.

The odors and moisture builds up and can turn your kitchen area into a feeding ground for microbial growth.  

How do you reduce the chance for moisture and odor issues in your kitchen? Be proactive and turn the Fan on every time you turn the stove on.

If you ever do run into issues in your Home or Commercial building reach out to SERVPRO and we’ll come out and take care of you.

Advanced Technology and technicians can often times save a floor

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

The kitchen lights turn on as you rub the sleep out of your eyes and stumble towards the coffee maker.  Two steps in you realize the smooth wooden floor you’ve walked across every morning for the last two years now feels different.

The smooth, dry floor you are accustomed to is now a cupped bundle of lumber that feels like it’s been soaked in the bathtub.  You quickly realize that the dishwasher you turned on as you went to bed the night before has been leaking water all over the kitchen.

The wood has begun to swell and buckle and your plans for a quiet Saturday morning reading the paper quickly turns into a call to SERVPRO for help.

For a lot of companies replacing a floor is the first choice to repair.  It seems like the quickest way in the moment, but there are weeks ahead of a compromised kitchen as replacement flooring is order.  

There is a better choice though!  With skilled technicians and the latest in drying technology, SERVPRO can oftentimes dry the wood floor in place using a complex system of Dehumidifying Mats places on the floor and hooked up to a labyrinth of air hoses.

If you find yourself in this situation give SERVPRO a call, go ahead and make that coffee, we’ll be there soon to help get your life back to normal.

Basement Leaks can affect your Home's Health

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Basements can completely flood, have a slow leak, or there’s just have an odd smell in the air – keeping your basement healthy and dry is one of the most important maintenance items you should keep up with.

Here are some places that your basement can leak:

• Top of the Wall
• Window Wells
• Wall Cracks
• Tie Rod Holes
• Honeycomb
• Sewer Pipe
• Mortar Joint
• Water Pipes Conduits
• Floor Cracks
• Sump Pump
• Floor Drain
• Floor & Wall Joint
• Plugged Drain Tile

If you do find elevated moisture levels in your basement, give SERVPRO a call.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO

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

Use extra caution when navigating flooded roads during a storm

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Driving on the roads during a storm doesn't seem like that big of a deal to some.  Getting home is often the biggest concern on someone's mind and choosing an alternate route just doesn't seem efficient.

When flood waters raise it is hard to distinguish just how high the water level is.  Underestimating the power of a few inches of rain has left more than one Seattle area driver stranded in the middle of the river flowing road.

Always pay attention to the emergency ponderer's warning signs on roads and back trails.  Using extra caution when signs aren't present reduces the risk of being stranded as well.

When water levels flood roads and buildings sustain damage, SERVPRO is your choice for repair and mitigation.

Why SERVPRO?

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Seattle, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

What's the deal with that Bathroom Fan?

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Keep your Fan Clean for a Happy Home

Bathroom fans are a unique part of your home’s overall health.  Oh sure, “getting that smell out” is one of the obvious benefits of the fan but it provides more than a clean smelling bathroom.

• Did you know that a bathroom fan that’s used one hour a day will exhaust over 2,000,000 cubic feet of air a year, or the equivalent of the air inside 1,000 homes?
  
  The moist air that is created when you take a shower or bath can combine with spores and all kinds of organic materials that are brought from the outside into your home.  This can increase the occurrence of microbial growth , which has shown to cause several health conditions.
  
  Exhausting this moist are from the structure helps keep moisture levels low.  To be efficient , though, the vent on the fan should be cleaned and inspected on a regular basis to allow for proper air flow.
  
  Turn the fan off at the switch or circuit breaker before removing the vent cover.
  
  Remove the cover by pulling down until the cover is several inches from the ceiling.
• Press the spring loaded wire clips, found on two sides of the cover, together then remove the clips from the slots in the fan housing.
• Use a vacuum to clean the vent of lint and debris.
  
  Use an extension attachment to vacuum out the cavity of the fan.
• The last step is simply replacing the vent cover and testing it out with a flip of a switch!

Do you know where your Shutoffs are?

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Knowing where your shutoffs are in your commercial building could save you thousands of unnecessary damage to your building.

Often times building owners will rely on the Fire Department to come in and shut off the water to the buildings once a loss has occurred.

Knowing where your shutoffs are and clearly marking them enables the building owner to shut off water several minutes before first responders can.

In the case of sprinklers that malfunction and turn on, just 1 minute less of water flowing could cut days off of a drying project.

If you don;t already , make sure you put together a plan of where the following shutoffs are:

• Gas

• Water

• Electricity
  
  
  

Commercial buildings often times require elevated training and equipment to dry and repair.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints.

We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO

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

Cold weather storms can cause damages to your home

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Severe freezing with high winds are a recipe for downed trees which can cause property damage.  Every year the Puget Sound experiences a few storms that pass through leaving millions of dollars in property damage.

The biggest source of property damage comes by way of downed trees which fall onto the roofs of homes.

Damage to Gutters and Siding are just a couple of the types of damage a home will incur.  Broken windows and roof penetrations are two types of damage that require emergency mitigation services to cover up the opening in the structure.

When damage from the cold and wind occur SERVPRO is the choice for repairing your damaged home.

Why SERVPRO?

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Seattle, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

When the Power is Out, the Generator should Stay Out as well

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

When the lights start to flicker one's first instinct is to grab the flashlights to be ready if the power goes out.

There is a large number of homeowners and businesses that own generators that can keep the vital systems in a building running.

The generators, which run on gas, exhaust fumes very similar to your automobile.  Making sure these fumes don't come back into your home is extremely important.

Generators should be placed Outside in order to exhaust the fumes out into the open.  Even putting the generator int he garage is not safe practice, the generator should be outside of the home and venting away from any fresh air inlet.

When the power goes off and your property sustains property damage, call SERVPRO to do your repairs and mitigate the damage.

Why SERVPRO? 

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Seattle, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

When Storms or Floods hit SERVPRO is ready!

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

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

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Rains Bringing Storm Damage Pains? SERVPRO is Here to Help!

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

The unpredictable weather of the last several weeks has brought about an incredible amount of inconveniences and headaches for many Central Seattle home owners and property managers alike.

The recent bouts of cold temperatures and snow, milder temperature and rain, and sporadic gusts have tested many of the neighborhoods and systems around the city, including backing up King County's West Point Treatment Plant to its maximum intake capacity and forcing the facility to temporarily bypass the excess into the Puget Sound.

Always Ready to Help

Because we are locally owned, we are ready and capable to respond at a moments notice. With 1650 franchises operating nationwide, SERVPRO  has access to equipment required to handle any issues a storm or flooding may bring.

SERVPRO can't stop the flood but we can stop the damage!

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Flood damage does not solely present damage from the water alone but also what is present in the water.

Having a fire in your home can be prevented, and the risk lessened with adequate precautions. Other types of damage are similar and can be controlled to some extent with a bit of effort on a homeowner's part. Flooding and the damage that it causes, however, is extremely uncooperative, no matter what efforts you put forth. 
 
 Floods of slower moving water create fewer risks to motorists and those who are outside, as knowledge of them is more widely known. Flash floods can sweep cars away because they are powerful enough to do so. The amount of damage these types of floods can create in a home can be catastrophic. Both types of floods can create bio-hazard risks in a home. If a home has been flooded, it must be cleaned to a sanitary state again before people live in it again. 
 
SERVPRO cleaning and restorative work must target biological presences and microbial organisms, chemical compounds, and structural damages. Flood damage does not solely present damage from the water alone but also what is present in the water, and sometimes this can include structural damage caused by objects being forced through a home during the flood. At times, these can include damage to electrical wiring in addition to waterlogged outlets. Chemical compounds can include various mixes of salts, fertilizers, sewage (which can also be biological), motor fluids (gasoline, oil, brake fluid), and run-off from local factories. 
 
Gutting a home is often needed to restore a residence to suitable conditions. Furnishings can be cleaned to acceptable levels unless they have been submerged for extended periods of time. This is especially true of compressed wood products. Solid wood furniture is not as easily damaged, although instead of swelling and crumbling, this type of furniture is more likely to crack in places where two pieces of wood were fastened together. Fabric that covers upholstery can harbor pathogens such as mold and bacteria, and care must be taken when cleaning these items. Special brushes may need to be used to preserve raised patterns while still cleaning the piece adequately. 
 

Storm flooding can tear into a home, quickly destroying small items along with upholstered furniture and drapes.

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Water Removal

Storm flooding can tear into a home, quickly destroying small items like books and magazines along with upholstered furniture and drapes which can bleed color soon after becoming soaked. It is necessary to get the stormwater out of the home promptly to prevent further damage.

That means SERVPRO technicians have to goals when it comes to water removal  We work to minimize the damage which has already occurred and to prevent further damage from even beginning.

We start with preventing more water from entering the house. Since the problem is stormwater, we may have to lay down sandbags or some other method to prevent more water entering as we use pumps to remove standing water inside. The pumps we use are adjustable to match the level and overall amount of water in the home. Even in a large home, we can clear out the water in less than a day. The sandbags may also be necessary to prevent any water pumped out from re-entering the home.

After removing the majority of the water SERVPRO technicians concentrate on the carpets and floors. To remove moisture trapped in the carpet fibers and between floorboards, we bring in extraction wands. We can adjust these devices to draw out water quickly, but without causing any secondary damage to the nape of the carpet or the wood floors.

Our next task is to lift the carpets and remove any pads underneath them. Pads begin to disintegrate soon after becoming soaked, and it is much cheaper for us to remove them than to attempt to dry them. To dry out any remaining moisture, we place air movers at key points to force warm air under the carpet and exhaust fans to draw out the damp air already present.

To dry out wood floors, we use the same fans and air movers. If we detect a large amount of moisture in the sub-floor, technicians lift a floorboard at entry and exit points to force warm air underneath and dry the space out.

Beautiful Spring... It can also bring major storm activity and being prepared to protect yourself, your home and contents is important.

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Spring-

Green grass, colorful flowers, relaxing rain showers and distant, whispering rumbles of thunder. But it isn't always this peaceful. Consider the notes below, Northeast Ohio, and take to safe steps when dangerous weather is predicted for Summit County, Portage County and/or Canton.

Tornadoes- Spring can be the peak season for tornado activity. Tornadoes occur mostly on warm spring days between 3:00 and 9:00 p.m. However, tornadoes can occur anywhere, at any time of the year, at any time of the day.

The Red Cross has safety steps people should take now to be ready if a tornado warning is issued for someone’s neighborhood:

• Download the free Red Cross tornado app for mobile devices. The tornado app puts everything you need to know to stay safe in a tornado at your fingertips. The app can be downloaded from the iTunes or Google Play stores by searching for American Red Cross.
• Know your community’s warning system.
• Pick a safe room in your home where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way. This should be a basement, storm cellar or interior room on the lowest floor with no windows.
• Prepare for strong winds by removing diseased and damaged limbs from trees.
• Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging plants or anything else that can be picked up by the wind and become a projectile.
• Know the tornado danger signs – dark, often greenish clouds, a wall cloud, cloud of debris, large hail, a funnel cloud or a roaring noise.

Thunderstorms- Thunderstorms are most likely to happen in the spring and summer, during the afternoon and evening. However, like tornadoes, they can happen anywhere, at any hour of the day. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people every year that tornadoes or hurricanes.

The Red Cross has steps you can take if a thunderstorm is predicted for your area:

• If thunder roars, go indoors. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be in danger from lightning.
• Watch for storm signs like darkening skies, flashes of lightning or increasing winds.
  Postpone any outdoor activities. Many people who are struck by lightning are not where it is raining.
• Take shelter in a substantial building or a vehicle with the windows closed. Shutter windows and close outside doors securely. Stay away from windows.
• Do not take a bath, shower or use plumbing.

Flooding- Spring can be a time of year for flooding. Communities in the Midwest and south have already seen floodwaters inundate neighborhoods. Snow melt and heavy spring rains fill rivers and streams and flooding can occur. Flash floods occur suddenly when water rises rapidly along a stream or low-lying area. People should be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice and head for higher ground when a flood or flash flood warning is issued.

Other safety steps include:

• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
• If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.

FEMA Publishes Guidance for Handling Flood Losses

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

FEMA Publishes Guidance for Handling Flood Losses

There's no easy solution.

The 2017 Hurricane Season was a brutal one. Seventeen named storms struck the United States causing a record-setting $200 billion in damage.

Much of this damage occurred not from high winds or storm surges, but from extended heavy rains that triggered major flooding.

In an effort to facilitate prompt post-inspection advance payments to policyholders, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) published an outline of steps, serving as guidance for handling flood losses.

1. Report the loss to your insurance agent or the insurance carrier, who will in turn assign an adjusting firm who provides an adjuster to assist you with presenting the support for your loss.
2. The adjuster inspects the property (scoping visit) and may ask if you wish to request an advance payment from your insurer; the adjuster will send you a detailed room-by-room unit-cost estimate of damage and a proof of loss form. If you agree, the proof of loss form should be signed to and sworn to, and upon your insurer's review and agreement, the loss is settled.
3. If you do not agree, you should work with your adjuster to find a dollar amount for the covered loss that can be agreed on. Also, working with your general contractor is helpful.
4. If you are unable to reach an agreement with the adjuster, you should contact your adjuster's supervisor by calling the adjusting firm.
5. The supervisor should work with you to find a dollar amount for the covered loss that can be agreed on.
6. If you are unable to reach an agreement with the adjuster's supervisor, you should contact your insurance carrier's claims department to discuss the amount difference or coverage issue with the claim examiner.
7. If you are unable to reach an agreement with the claims examiner, you should complete a proof of loss form for the total amount you are requesting (the disputed amount plus any additional amount), and then send the signed and sworn-to proof of loss form with documentation to support the additional amount you are requesting, directly to the insurance carrier claim examiner.
8. If the insurer agrees with your documentation, they will pay the amount you are requesting; or they may provide the adjusting firm with their recommendation which may lead to an additional payable amount and a new Proof of Loss. If the insurer disagrees, they will issue payment for any undisputed amount, and a written denial letter will be sent to you fully explaining the reasons for the disallowance (denial) of your claim or any portion of your claim.
9. If you agree with the denial or no longer dispute the decision, the loss is settled.
10. For any denial of payment, in whole or in part, which you are disputing, three options remain:
    • You may send an amended Proof of Loss with supporting documentation back to the claim examiner; see STEP 8
    • You may submit a formal Appeal to FEMA
      • A written appeal letter must be sent to FEMA within 60 days of your insurer's denial letter, along with a copy of the denial letter and the documentation you have to support your appeal.
    • You may file a lawsuit against your insurer
      • A lawsuit must be filed within one year of your insurer's first written denial letter and only in U.S. District Court in the district where the property is located at the time of the loss
      • However, once you file a lawsuit, you may no longer appeal your claim to FEMA or file an amended Proof of Loss with your insurer.

Water Damage After A Major Storm

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO  arrives quickly & starts the water extraction process almost immediately, minimizing the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

When a major storm passes close to the house, the home may suffer water damage that is difficult to repair.

There are many things a family can do to begin repairing any destruction, but a certified professional will likely be needed to get rid of any serious health or structural threats. Contaminated storm surges or floods can carry pathogens and become a breeding ground for mold. If allowed to fester, these mold spores can spread throughout the building and become even more difficult to remove. In many cases,  governmental agencies could condemn the structure if the microbial threat is too great.

The main reason a home is sensitive to water damage is because moisture is difficult to detect once the floods recede. Standing liquids can encourage microbial growth within 24 hours and can saturate all kinds of textiles and seep through drywall. Moisture may collect behind the walls, where mold and bacteria may multiply out of sight.

Professional restoration services can quickly identify what items in the home are compromised by water damage. Normally, anything that is porous may need to be discarded if it has come in contact with contaminated fluids. These items, like mattresses, box springs, pillows and particle board, trap more moisture than other materials and foster the growth of microbes.

A family can prepare for professional cleaning by getting rid of these items before the technicians arrive, but be sure to properly record and itemize the items for insurance purposes prior to disposing. Once professionals arrive at the building, they will be able to track down any pockets of excess moisture and remove them. 

It’s important for a family to hire professionals that are certified through a reputable organization. Technicians trained in this area know how to find compromised areas and do what it takes to restore them

The Importance of Adding Value to the Client/Realtor Relationship

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

The Importance of Adding Value to the Client/Realtor Relationship

SERVPRO  had the opportunity to interact with the That Realty Group sales team during a lunch and learn earlier this week. Both teams had a great time and shared a delicious meal form Palmetto Restaurant and Ale House. The focus of the lunch and learn was to highlight the benefits of SERVPRO residential service to both buyers and sellers of homes

One such benefit is the knowledge that any water or mold damage that is discovered during an inspection will be mitigated by a professional company with an excellent reputation and level of customer service. This can add peace of mind for the buyer, seller, and realtor throughout the transaction.

Realtors can also further develop a level of trust with their clients by being proactive with SERVPRO’s contact information in anticipation of an event. These events do not have to necessarily disastrous in nature either. A great example is a home was vandalized with tattoo ink on the front porch, windows, and some exterior walls, and this was within three months of purchasing the home. The homeowners felt angry, victimized, and embarrassed. And they were completely new with the police, so they reached out to their realtor. Their realtor contacted our office to see if there was availability to assist her former clients quickly, and SERVPRO was on site that same morning to determine the best action plan. The home was cleaned up and only a few pieces of wicker furniture needed to be replaced, saying the homeowner a significant amount. But more importantly, the homeowners and realtor relationship grew stronger even though their transaction had been completed. A month later when friends of the homeowner were looking to relocate, they immediately reached out to that same realtor because they trusted them to take care of those they cared about.

Realtors that utilize SERVPRO get the immediate benefit of quality, reputable work. But they also get the long-term benefit of adding value to their client relationships as well.  

Clear Communication and Customer Service

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

Clear Communication and Customer Service

Developing strong communication skills is essential for many levels of personal and professional success. Those same skills can be applied to assist in creating exceptional customer experiences. Practicing a communication skill will make that skill second nature and reinforce the benefit clear communication will have. Many communication skill drills involve role-playing, and while that can be helpful it is not necessarily retainable, and “retainability” is a significant part of training.

One of the alternatives to role-playing exercises is the “building block challenge.”Which involves breaking up participants into groups of three and having them work together to build a small set from a building block toy line. The catch is that only one person can see and read the instructions, one person is allowed to build the set, and the “middle person” identifies the pieces based on the description. You set a time limit and rotate roles so that each participant gets an opportunity with providing and executing the instructions and change out block sets each rotation to ensure each experience is different. The purpose of this activity is to build skills based around providing instructions and directions without having any physical input on the project. The challenge has been used to train over the phone technical support specialists and provided measurable positive changes to efficiency and customer service metrics.   

You may not provide support over the phone, but practicing conveying a message clearly while having tactile tools for the exercise to view progress, can improve your ability to communicate and provide benefits to personal, professional, and customer relationships.

How Critical Thinking Can Help Communication

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

It has been said that the definition of insanity is “doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results.” And if you have tried to make an eight-year-old do their homework or walk someone through a full system restore to their cell phone, then you may feel that this in fact true. So how do you get a message across when the most direct way is not working, or the other party isn’t exactly receptive? You have to change the delivery of the message without changing the message. Simple right, not so much.

The concept of making a message more receptive isn’t the same as hiding pet medicine in a treat, the point of adjusting the message is so that the other party comprehends the message not just accepts it. It can take a lot of creativity and critical thinking skills to “customize information for the audience,” but how do you practice that? Puzzles? Puns? Math? Well, yes. But there is a way to do so that doesn’t require an investment in school supplies.

Years ago, there was a hashtag on Twitter #ExplainAFilmPlotBadly that centered around describing a film’s plot without any significant details. It was just as much fun to decipher the movie as it was to come up with a description all of your own. I then tried using it to train a group of support reps on how to deliver a message to a customer if they did not seem to understand or accept it: saying no without using “no,” describing directions on a computer or phone, etc. And this method seemed to click with those that I trained even more so than the standard “say this not that” lessons. So the idea was itself an example of how it worked.

Some of the examples are simple and easy to guess:

Moody billionaire works out his abandonment issues by arguing with clowns (Batman).

And some were more complex and required a great deal of thought:

A widower’s son is kidnapped, and the only person that will help him has short-term amnesia (Finding Nemo).

These exercises helped to jumpstart the trainees critical thinking on how they can change the message and improve their customer service skills and increased efficiency. And are a great way to see you can help get your message across the next time you feel like you are stuck in a loop with a customer, coworker, or family memb

Making a fire Escape Plan for Your Home

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

You had fire drills growing up at school, (hopefully) you have the occasional fire drill at work now that you are an adult, but do you ever have fire drills at home? Coming up with and practicing family safety drills can help to make sure your family is prepared in the event of an emergency. It is an important topic to discuss with your family, especially children.

The National Fire Protection Association has a helpful section on how to create a family fire escape plan. It includes how to draw a fire escape path for your home, how to reinforce fire safety to younger children, and tips how to stay as safe as possible during a fire.

Some of the tips include:

• Call 911 as soon as possible, even if you think you can contain the fire
• Know at least 2 ways out of each room
• Have a designated outside meeting place a safe distance from the home
• Assign “partners” for young, elderly, or family members with mobility issues
• Close Doors behind you as you leave each room to slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire

Your family’s safety is the first priority. After emergency services have done their job SERVPRO will be here to help you repair, restore, and recover your belongings.

Pack-Out Services

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO  specializes in emergency services for water, fire, and storm damage. But you do not have to have an emergency to take advantage of our service. In fact, a few of our services can be a part of your remodel plan.

Remodeling your home can be an exciting way to truly make your house your home. The concepts of expanding living spaces, adding a garden tub, or getting the perfect kitchen can all get the imagination racing. But often it’s the tiny details that are overlooked and bring large amounts of stress and frustration as they insert a little reality into your dream. Especially the ever so small detail of “Where are we going to put all of our stuff while we do this?”

Having the contents of your home packed-out by SERVPRO professional team can help answer that question and significantly reduce stress. We can provide you with an efficient and organized pack-out based on your needs. This will help reduce the amount of time the remodel can take, protect your belongings from unexpected damage from accidents or construction debris, and give you peace of mind so that you can focus on your project. We have local business partners that can facilitate moving and storage as well, helping to lighten the burden even more.

So if your remodel and renovation is to finalize your dream home or a necessity because of damage, we are prepped and READY to be there for you.

Coffee Stain

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

Years ago I worked for a company that prided itself on its customer service; they called it ‘legendary.” They didn’t just view customer service as the interactions between employees and guests or the quality of their food, but also as the cleanliness of the building. It was all part of the customer experience. One of the illustrations used to convey why cleanliness is part of customer service was The Coffee Stain Story.

A person books a flight across the country and they were able to get a great price and no layovers. The flight boarded on time, the seats on either side were empty, so there was plenty of room to be comfortable, the movie was good, and the headphones were complimentary. Flight staff was courteous and brought the passenger a free drink. The plane even landed on time. It was an incredible flight.

But, when they lowered the tray table, they noticed a small coffee ring stain. And even all of the free stuff, extra room, and no inconveniences, it was all they could think about. When they were asked “how was your flight,” they would respond with “It was OK, but my tray table was dirty. Had a big old nasty coffee ring on it.”

The story shows how the perception of their experience was hugely impacted by such a tiny detail, and customer perception is customer experience. It was taught to us to show how important every detail can be, and we must do all that we can to control the controllable.

Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

looding and water damage commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call, and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

when to call 911

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

Know when to call 911

Even if you are fully trained in first aid or CPR always alert 911 right away during an emergency situation including:

• Fire
• Serious injury
• Sudden violent illness (poisoning)

911 operators are trained to assist in any way possible, so it is important to answer their questions as best as you can, listen to them carefully, and do NOT hang up.

Take a class

Several types of courses available will teach first aid, CPR, and how to utilize an AED correctly. The American Red Cross’ website has a tool to help locate classes based on your city, and help you learn to handle:

• Cuts, burns, head injuries, and broken bones.
• Someone who cannot breathe
• When a person’s heart suddenly stops beating

Make a First Aid Kit

First aid kits have all that you need for rapid response to many situations to treat those that require medical attention. It is incredibly important to have a kit nearby including in your home, at work, and even in the car.  A well-stocked first aid kit should include the following:

• Directions on how to treat basic injuries and when to call for more help
• Bandages
• Tape
• Scissors
• Gloves to prevent contamination risks
• Antiseptic solution or wipes

Be sure to check and restock your first aid kit regularly.

The knowledge and experience you will gain from learning these skills can empower you to make the right decision and take swift action in the event of an emergency.

Remember these Storm tips

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

It has been a very stormy summer in Virginia and water damage as well as mold removal  has been a problem for many homeowners. We thank all of our customers for choosing SERVPRO to help them during this storm season.

In case of a flood here are some useful tips to protect yourself and your home.

TIPS: 

1. Do not walk through moving water. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.

2. If your property suffers flood damage, clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud from floodwaters can contain sewage and checmicals. Dispose of any food or personal hygiene items exposed to floodwaters

3. Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, move to higher ground.

4. Avoid floodwaters because they can be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.

Odor Removal & Deodorization

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. These odors can come from a number of sources both inside and outside a structure.

SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other shortcuts don't work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.

We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor and determining the conditions in which it contact any surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call, and leave the restoration to us.

victim to Mold Infestation!

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

· Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.

· Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.

· Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.

· Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.

· Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

· Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation

Does your Home have Black Mold

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

You may have seen sensational news reports that warn about the dangers of “black mold” or “toxic mold”. These reports can be alarming and confusing so it’s beneficial to get the facts to better understand mold.

Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called black mold, and it does produce allergens and irritants. However, many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants. Treat any mold with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold.

Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by visiting our page

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can cause reactions, you should contact us regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold may exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect you have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO immediately. 

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 301-588-2240

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent

Are you Deep-Frying your Turkey this Thanksgiving?

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

With the popularity of turkey frying increasing every year, people are at risk for fryer-related fires and injuries. U.S. fire departments are responding to more than 1,000 deep fire related incidents each year. According to the National Fire Protection Association deep fryer fires result in more than $15 million in property damage each year. Here are some rules to follow when deep frying a turkey.

Don’t Deep Fry a Frozen Turkey Frozen turkeys are full of moisture. Make sure your turkey is completely thawed out because water and hot oil don’t mix well.

Don’t Let Oil Get Too Hot If you see your oil smoking, it is too hot. When oil gets around 400-425-degrees it can catch on fire by itself. So, when deep frying a turkey most oils should stay around 350-degrees.

Don’t Use Too Much Oil When deep-frying a turkey a common mistake people make is putting too much cooking oil in their pot. Overfilling your pot can result in the oil spilling over into the flame on the burner. If you need to figure out how much oil you need try putting your turkey in an empty pot, fill the pot with enough water to cover the turkey. Once you remove the turkey mark the water line.

Don’t Deep Fry Indoors You should never deep-fry a turkey in your house, garage or on a deck. You should always deep fry a turkey in a yard away from anything that’s flammable.

Hopefully, this Thanksgiving will go smoothly. 

Vacant homes can be breeding grounds for mold growth

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

Vacant homes can be breeding grounds for mold growth. Quite often we are called to a vacant home that is up for sale or the renter has moved out. The realtor/rental agent has come to show the home and finds mold growing on the walls. Mold can be seen growing most often in the upper wall locations, though it is not unusual to see growth at the lower wall levels as well. Closets that have been closed will quite often have the worst mold growth, partly because they are dark and mold loves the dark.

What could cause this? No broken water lines are found, the water is usually turned off to the home. Sometimes the HVAC system is off and that is the source of the problem. Having the heating and air turned off creates a high humidity level in the home. When the HVAC system is off there is no airflow circulating in the home therefore the air becomes stagnant. This is the perfect scenario for mold development.

Here are some tips on preventing mold issues in vacant homes:

• Always keep some heat and air running in the home. Set temperature so heat or air runs periodically during the day.
• Open closet doors to allow for airflow and light to enter.
• A ceiling fan left on low can help circulate the air in the home.
• Open window treatments/blinds at least ¼ open to allow in extra light. Remember, mold loves the dark.
• Visit the home occasionally. Just opening the doors and entering the structure allows for the exchange of fresh air and extra airflow. It’s also a great way to catch any issues before they become serious problems

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

What Used to Be...

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

Once upon a time not so long ago, there was a quaint little store located in a quiet little town.  The store was doing great and was a nice addition to the down town area.  

One day, the owner's husband passed away unexpectedly, leaving her in shambles.  She began to move on by putting all of her energy and focus into her store.  Soon, she had begun to acquire so much merchandise, that she had run out of shelf space.  

Boxes and totes, even closets began to expand with all of the stuff that she was bringing in.  The little town's people became concerned.  They called in their #WeAreLocal SERVPRO to help with the situation.  Not only were all three floors of this once beautiful building full, but the basement and the garage were also filled to the brim!  

When traumatic things happen, some people are unsure of how to cope.  This owner bought things to fill the emptiness inside and created for herself a very dangerous living situation.  With the help of SERVPRO, we were able to save the building and the woman's home.

When Winter Hits Hard

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

hen winter comes and you can have "faith" in SERVPRO.  Frozen pipes that can break and cause flooding as well as other types of water and fire damage that can cause trouble to your home or business are never convenient.  At SERVPRO "We can Manage the Damage" and have been helping customers deal with disaster for over 50 years.  SERVPRO has the Experience, Equipment and Expertise.  Besides water and fire damage we do mold mitigation and remediation.  Move outs and contents restoration.  We do Document drying and we also do carpets, upholstery, drapes and hard floors.  We can tackle  Biohazard, crime scene and vandalism which includes board ups

Once the Fire is Out-Who do You Call?

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

Although a fire itself does a significant amount of fire and smoke damage to items touched by flames - smoke, soot residues and water damage or flooding from the fire department will affect other parts of your home. It is important to take all necessary precautions before entering your home after experiencing fire damage.

Besides natural hazards that may exist, entering your house can be 1) unsafe and 2) lead to secondary damages as movement or foot traffic can make some of your personal items unsalvageable. Protect your investment wisely and hire an established restoration contractor like SERVPRO to help get you back on your feet after fire or smoke damage has affected your home.

SERVPRO has 24-hour emergency services available 365-days a year, including holidays. Our technicians have received the necessary IICRC certifications and follow all municipal and OSHA safety guidelines to perform fire damage restoration on your property.

Fire Damage in Commercial Building

10/29/2018 (Permalink)

A fire that started in the elevator shaft of a commercial building caused repercussions throughout different parts of the structure as well. Unless it's summer and you're sitting next to a bonfire fires are never anticipated. In almost any case, they are not what any business owner wants for themselves. As you can see in the picture we have a different point of view from the building and there is soot damage present on the flooring. This is shown by the darker color on the floor and the foot prints shown within them. SERVPRO  went in to this job and before we even put a single piece of equipment down we assured the business owner that this was nothing new to us. 

Here what you need to know about mold

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Here what you need to know about mold

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all molds from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all molds, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

Smoke Alarms

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

Fire prevention is one of the most important things for you and your family. Ensuring that your home has smoke alarms are one of the first steps in fire prevention. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 3 out of 5 home fire deaths were caused because of no smoke alarm or no working smoking alarm. Smoke alarm cut the risk of people dying. Hardwired fire alarms operated 94% of the time versus battery powered alarms. The battery may tend to fail because of missing, disconnected or dead batteries. Ionization smoke alarm is more responsive to flaming fires and can detect a fire faster during the night hours when you are sleeping to give you extra time to safety assist or waken others to evacuate from a fire.

Water Damage In Bedroom

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

drying carpet and walls

This picture depicts a water damage scene in which our SERVPRO of Bethesa/Potomac  team was called out to after water leaked into the bedroom.  The carpet was saturated upon arrival so the team jumped into action.  When this happens, the carpet must be dried out and in this case, the wall needed to be dried also.  After the moisture readings were complete,  the team pulled the carpet back from the wall and begin to set up the drying equipment.  In this scenario, the carpet is dried with different equipment that the SERVPRO of Bethesa/Potomac teams brings with the to the site.  As you can see in this picture, the carpet is lifted as the equipment sends air under it.  This helps the carpet dry more quickly and efficiently.   The wall is being dried with the equipment also.  This customer was very pleased with the results from our work and was surprised that we were able to work so quickly to get this job finished for them

Get Prepared!

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

Be prepared for any type of storm!

Common Types of Damaging Storms in the U.S.

Are You Covered?

Check your insurance policy and make sure you are covered for all the types of storms that affect your areas. Some insurance policies do not cover flooding and earthquakes. Fortunately hail, windstorms, tornadoes and hurricanes are typically covered by most insurances. We recommend that you check your individual policy and have a good understanding of your level of protection, and purchase additional protection if necessary.

Storms Can Cause Damage

• It is common for the average U.S. citizen to have already experienced a severe hailstorm or witnessed the damage hail can cause to homes, automobiles, businesses and other property. Hailstorms can cause great amount of damage to the exterior of your home or property. Common types of damage caused by hail are: roof damage, siding damage, shingle damage, window damage and automobile damage
• Thunderstorms can produce many types of damaging weather such as lightning, hail, tornadoes, straight-line winds, flooding and more. The biggest contributors to damaged property are likely hail and wind, which can cause many types of exterior property damage
• Ice storms produce freezing rain that coats everything in its path with a layer of glaze ice. Generally speaking, if a storm causes accumulation of more than a quarter inch on exposed surfaces, the storm can be classified as an ice storm. This type of accumulation can cause broken tree branches, power outages and other hazardous conditions.
• Lightning storms are a major cause of storm damage in many areas around the country. The National Lightning Safety Institute estimates the cost of lightning damage in the $5 to $6 billion dollar per year range. Lightning that hits trees and the ground is a common cause of wildfires, structure fires, property damage and power outages
• Blizzards are severe winter storms that combine heavy snowfall, with high winds and freezing temperatures. The combination of cold, wind and snow damages homes, businesses and automobiles. Heavy snow can produce dangerous conditions, including roof collapse.
• Floods are typically the result of heavy rain and water that rises faster than storm drains can handle. Flash floods driven by quick, violent bursts of rain can flood homes, basements and businesses, causing serious damage to both interiors and exteriors. Flooding is a very dangerous storm phenomenon that results in numerous deaths and extensive property damage each year.

Don’t let storms sneak up on you. Be prepared!

How to Prepare for Hurricane Season

8/10/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over ocean water and often move toward land. Threats from hurricanes include high winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, and tornadoes. The heavy winds of hurricanes can cause damage or destroy homes, buildings, and roads, as well as cause power, water, and gas outages. These effects can injure or kill people, disrupt transportation, and pollute drinking water. Hurricanes cause deaths and injuries primarily from drowning, wind, and wind-borne debris. The impact from hurricanes can extend from the coast to several hundred miles inland. To find your risk, visit FEMA’s “Know Your Risk Map.” Be better prepared for this hurricane season, and learn more at ready.gov/prepare.

• Stayed informed
• Plan for evacuation
• Take action to protect your property from against wind and water damage

For more information check out www.fema.gov

Before you read can you tell us the 5 most common Fire Hazards?

8/10/2018 (Permalink)

Below are the most common Fire Hazards in your home.

• Alcohol and Fire

It's a fact that many house fires are caused by someone attempting to cook or smoke while under the influence of alcohol. 

• Candles

Candle fires happen in places like bedrooms and bathrooms where people use them as mood enhancers. Unfortunately, people can fall asleep with a candle still burning or leave the room without snuffing out the flame. Candles should NEVER be left burning unattended!

• Cooking

Many items in the kitchen can catch fire easily including pot holders, dish towels, and product packaging. Keep curtains away from the stove and clean up all spills on the stove top or near by counters.

• Electrical 

Unsafe use of electricity can be a  ticking time bomb! An electrical fire can happen at any time. Follow-up when a fuse or circuit breaker blows. Don't just reset the breaker or replace the fuse. Find out what caused the problem.

• Cigarettes

Too many fires are caused from careless disposal of smoking materials

Home Have A Mold Problem?

8/8/2018 (Permalink)

In Bethesda/Potomac mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 301-530-7400

CAUSES OF MOLD

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Common Source of excessive mold-causing moisture

Flooding from storms coming from outside

Sump pump overflow

Roof leaks from damaged roofs, ice dams or blocked gutters

Rain from storms through window frames, exterior walls, or doors

Leaking pipes, sewer back-ups or overflows

Damp basements due to high water table or badly managed water drainage

Condensation on cold surfaces

Mold needs these 3 main things to thrive and stay alive.

High humidity

Warm or temperate Temperature

Poor ventilation

Mold is easier to prevent than it is to clean so keeping a watch on common sources of mold and maintaining a dry, ventilated home and drying homes from water damage within 24 hours of the incidence is the best way to prevent mold from happening in the first place. If you have a mold problem and you would like information about how to get it professionally cleaned, please call us and we will direct you on the companies that we use to test for mold.

SERVPRO of Bethesda/ Potomac specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

An Emergency Checklist

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

5/15/2017

·       Water (one gallon per person per day)

·        Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)

·        Manual can opener

·        Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio

·        Flashlight and extra batteries

·        First aid kit

·        Whistle to signal for help

·        Clothing

·        Dust masks or bandanas

·        Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape

·        Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

·        Hygiene items

·        Important documents; copies of insurance policies,     identification and bank account information

·        Cash

·        Fire extinguisher

·        Matches in a waterproof container

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

Be Storm Ready

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Sever weather can happen any time, and anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms*:

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,000 tornadoes
• 2 land falling, deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98 percent of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage.* Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

Know Your Risk. The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.

Take Action. Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home or business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.

Be an Example. Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers and family and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your preparedness story will inspire others to do the same.

*Facts provided by http://www.stormready.noaa.gov.

Steps On What To Do In Case of a Fire

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

Step 7: Restoration

For more details on the proper steps to follow after a fire, check out the fire damage section on our website.

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

National Building Safety Month

6/1/2018 (Permalink)

in 2018, Building Safety Month celebrates 38 years. It is an initiative of the International Code Council also known as ICC. Building Safety Month is an opportunity to educate insurance and commercial property professionals, as well as the general public on " what it takes to create safe, resilient, affordable and energy efficient homes and buildings."

Some of the topics and tips that are shared throughout the month on the ICC website are Disaster Safety and Mitigation as well as Fire Safety and Awareness.

The general public may not be aware how codes and code officials " improve and protect the places where we live, learn, work, worship, and play, " and this month will increase awareness.

For more detailed information please visit iccsafe.org as a reference.

Hurricane Preparedness Month Part 1

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

The week of May 6 - May 12 is known as Hurricane Preparedness Week. This week is dedicated to preparing for a tropical storm or a hurricane. Here are some steps to follow to prepare yourself each day this week.

1. Find out today what types of wind and water hazards could happen where you live, and then start preparing now for how to handle them. Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem.

2. Create an evacuation plan to follow in case of an emergency storm. Make sure to have it in writing and on a mobile device.

3. Assemble disaster supplies. You’re going to need supplies not just to get through the storm but for the potentially lengthy and unpleasant aftermath. Have enough non-perishable food, water and medicine to last each person in your family a minimum of one week. Electricity and water could be out for at least that long. You’ll need extra cash, a battery-powered radio and flashlights. Many of us have cell phones, and they all run on batteries. You’re going to need a portable, crank or solar powered USB charger

For more information and the full plan visit:

https://www.weather.gov/wrn/hurricane-preparedness

Hurricane Preparedness Month Part 2

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

4.Call your insurance company to make sure your house, car and boat are covered in case of a disaster. You can also check National Flood Insurance Program.

5.If you plan to ride out the storm in your home, make sure it is in good repair and up to local hurricane building code specifications

6.Check on your neighbors to make sure that they are aware and prepared as well.

7.The time to prepare for a hurricane is before the season begins, when you have the time and are not under pressure. If you wait until a hurricane is on your doorstep, the odds are that you will be under duress and will make the wrong decisions. Take the time now to write down your hurricane plan.Being prepared, before a hurricane threatens, makes you resilient to the hurricane impacts of wind and water. It will mean the difference between your being a hurricane victim and a hurricane survivor.

For more information and the full plan visit:

https://www.weather.gov/wrn/hurricane-preparedness

Mold Prevention & Mitigation: For Your Health

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Molds are found in every environment, and mold spores reproduce rapidly when moisture is present. An Institute of Medicine study found excessive dampness indoors encourages the growth of molds and other organisms, potentially causing a public health problem. The EPA advised that the potential health concerns from molds are an important reason to prevent moisture problems leading to mold growth. Possible health effects include runny nose, sneezing, coughing, aggravation of asthma, sore throat, or inflammation of the sinuses. 

Take Precautions:

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac's Professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, be alert for:

·         The presence of visible mold.

·         Strong musty odors, which may indicate mold is present. 

·         Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth. 

·         Excessive humidity.

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems. 

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac cares about proper restoration of your structure and, in most water-damage situations, can safely restore your building to preloss condition.

When Lightning Strikes

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Lightning is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities. Though the odds of being struck by lightning in a given year are only around 1 in 500,000, some factors can put you at greater risk for being struck. Here are a few lightning safety tips.

Be aware. Check the forecast before participating in outdoor activities. If it calls for thunderstorms, postpone your trip or activity, or make sure adequate safe shelter is available.

Go indoors. Remember the phrase, “When thunder roars, go indoors.” Find a safe, enclosed shelter when you hear thunder. Safe shelters include homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up.

Avoid windows, doors, porches, and concrete. Do not lie on concrete floors and avoid leaning on concrete walls. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.

Avoid water. Do not bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm because lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing.

Avoid electronic equipment. Do not use computers, laptops, game systems, washers, dryers, stoves, or anything connected to an electrical outlet. Lightning can travel through electrical systems, radio, and television reception systems, and any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring. Equip homes and offices with whole-house surge protectors to protect appliances.

Tips provided by the Centers for Disease Control; cdc.gov.

SERVPRO® Named Top Franchise Opportunity in Restoration Services Category for the 15th Consecutive Year

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO receives top ranking in the Restoration Services industry for the 15^th consecutive year.

Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc., chief executive officer, said the company also achieved the number 12 spot overall in the prestigious rankings, standing out in a record-breaking group of more than 1,020 franchises qualified for the 2018 list.

The purpose of the Franchise 500 list is to use objective and quantifiable measures of a franchise operation to help would-be entrepreneurs identify franchise investment opportunities.

"SERVPRO’s financial strength and stability, growth rate, and system size all contribute to the company’s success, and by extension to the success of its franchisees,” said Steen. “The commitment to excellence starts at the top and carries through to the service each franchisee provides to each and every customer."

Steen says key differentiators set SERVPRO apart from the competition, making it a strong business opportunity for both existing franchisees and would-be entrepreneurs. Those differentiators are:

• SERVPRO’s strength as a brand, enabling the company to form national partnerships with organizations like the PGA TOUR^®.
• SERVPRO’s commitment to being a learning organization, helping franchisees plan, track, and deliver best-in-class services to consumers.
• SERVPRO’s focus on continued technological development and support, resulting in industry-leading proprietary software and systems.

Commercial Fire Restoration

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If your business experiences a fire loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts and we’ll respond immediately to get you back to business.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Are You Ready In Case of a Storm

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

Summer is approaching and that means another hurricane season is soon to begin. While June 1^st marks the official start of hurricane season, May is a month for hurricane awareness and preparation. The National Hurricane Center states,

“A lack of hurricane awareness and preparation are common threads among all major hurricane disasters. By knowing your vulnerability and what actions you should take, you can reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster.”

Go to:  http://www.nws.noaa.gov/com/weatherreadynation/hurricane_preparedness.html for more information. 

As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition. Our restoration process puts an emphasis on scientific drying techniques, progress monitoring and documentation.

Water Damage: Clean vs Contaminated

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

When you have a water damage, don’t leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac. Consider the following steps to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for help to arrive.

Damage from Clean Water:

·         Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.

·         Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock.

·         Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

·         Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

·         Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

·         Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

Damage from Contaminated Water:

·         Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.

·        Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.

·         Do not turn on HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.

·         Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.

·         Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

Note: If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult your local health department or physician.

Indoor Air Quality Solutions to Alleviate Spring Allergies

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

- Have your home checked annually by a certified HVAC technician. An HVAC tech knows exactly what to look for.

-Even when it is nice outside, opening windows and doors brings allergens and dust into the home.

-Having your air ducts cleaned is important due to the dust and dirt that build up there. Some things are oblivious to the naked eye but can cause health problems.

-Check seals around windows and doors as one missing seal can be the reason that pollen, dust and other debris enter the home.

-Change air filters every 30 days especially during the months where the air conditioner is used more often.

-Clean hardwood floors, carpet, door mats regularly to avoid dust collection, debris build up.

All of these things listed can lead to more serious health problems if not maintained. In people with severe allergy problems you find that something's  may need to be cleaned even more. 

Spring Is Here

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

Today is the spring equinox — when the day and night are equal in length. The word equinox comes from the Latin for equal and night. Almost everywhere in the world today, nighttime and daytime are each 12 hours. 

We use the equinox to mark the change of seasons, as the balance of light shifts to make for longer days or nights. It usually means that it's time to hunker down for colder seasons, or time to rise and shine for warmer ones, as in the case of our furry friend the mouse! You may also notice that on the equinox, the sun rises directly in the east and sets directly in the west, whereas at other times in the year, it appears off-center if you're facing those directions. Today, we mark the equinox with a Doodle to celebrate the changing seasons.

The Most Common Types of Mold

3/19/2018 (Permalink)

The most common types of mold include aspergillus, cladosporium and stachybotrys atra (also known as black mold).

Aspergillus is a fairly allergenic mold that is commonly found on foods and in home air conditioning systems. Cladosporium is typically a black or green "pepper like" substance that grows on the back of toilets, painted surfaces and fiberglass air ducts. While this mold is nontoxic to humans, it can trigger common allergy symptoms, such as red and watery eyes, rashes and a sore throat.

Restoring your Commercial Property After a Loss

3/15/2018 (Permalink)

There’s never a convenient time for flooding or water damage to strike your business. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

Commercial Water Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion. 

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac can respond immediately to your commercial water damage emergency regardless of the size or scope of the damage. We are part of a national network of over 1,600 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large scale events and disasters.

Mildew vs Mold: Do You Know The Difference

3/15/2018 (Permalink)

When it comes to mildew vs. mold, homeowners often have trouble identifying the differences between these two fungi. Knowing their different characteristics will help you when preparing for the battle against these household culprits.

Mold and mildew are both members of the fungi kingdom.

Mildew is a common gray and white fungus that’s often powdery in appearance. In homes, mildew will grow on damp materials like paper, leather and fabrics in addition to walls and other wet surfaces. Because of this, mildew is most commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens and basements. In addition to identifying mildew by its fuzzy appearance, you can also point it out before actually seeing it. Mildew usually gives off a musty smell that indicates an infestation is nearby.

Unlike mildew, certain types of toxic molds can result in serious health problems for you and your family. Black mold can lead to serious respiratory complications, which may result in long-term health issues and even death in some cases. If you believe you may have a serious black mold infestation in your home, call a mold removal service to properly remove the infested area.

What is an ERP?

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

No one ever plans for a disaster, but you can always prepare for it. Did you know 50% of businesses never reopen following a disaster? Preparation is key to making it through any size disaster whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your Bethesda/ Potomac business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster. 

Advantages of the SERVPRO emergency Ready Profile

• A no cost assessment of your facility
• a concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency
• a guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
• establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
• identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
• provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information

Prepare Your House For Santa

11/28/2017 (Permalink)

As we start December and get excited because the holidays are upon us, we must also keep in mind the importance of safety. Here are some tips to remember during the holidays.

Never use lighted candles near trees, boughs, curtains/drapes, or with any potentially flammable item.

Stand your tree away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources. Make sure the tree does not block foot traffic or doorways.

If you use an artificial tree, choose one that is tested and labeled as fire resistant. Artificial trees with built-in electrical systems should have the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) label.

If using a natural tree, make sure it is well watered to avoid dry branches from catching fire from the heat of light bulbs.

Turn off all lights on trees and decorations when you go to bed or leave the house. Unplug extension cords when not in use.

When putting up holiday decorations, always use the proper step stool or ladder to reach high places. Don’t stand on chairs, desks or other furniture.

Prepare your car for the winter by checking items such as the brakes, spark plugs, battery, and tires. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended interval for a tune-up.

Refer to the link below for more safety tips.

http://www.nsc.org/NSCDocuments/Holiday-Safety-Tips.pdf

FIRE SAFETY

10/31/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know that 3 out of 5 home fire deaths are due to non- working smoke alarms? Have you checked yours? It is as simple as looking on the back of the smoke alarm for the date of manufacture.

It is recommended that you try and change smoke alarms every 10 years if not sooner to avoid problems.

To find out more information on fire safety visit the website of Fema:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/

SERVPRO of Bethesda / Potomac is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

Different types of disasters and emergencies happen in communities across the country, but there are key steps that every household can take to be better prepared for them. If you do nothing else this month, take time to create a disaster plan including an emergency escape plan.

Make a clear plan of what to do in an emergency and in case of an evacuation.

Identify clear roles for everyone in the house.

Discuss how to prepare and respond to emergencies that can happen at home, work, and school.

Make a list of all the important things you may forget when in an emergency.

Have a disaster kit assembled for everyone in the house.

Have an out of the area emergency contact person saved on a smartphone.

Practice evacuating your home twice a year, especially if you have kids or pets. This makes it a routine and can make a real emergency situation less stressful.

According to the Red Cross there are many disaster apps now available for smartphones and tablets that can be downloaded to help with emergencies. Some of these apps include a full emergency app, tornado, hurricane, earthquake, wildfire and flood apps. If any of these disasters are common in your areas I would recommend downloading the corresponding app. With these apps you can know when to evacuate, where a shelter may be located, and exactly where the disaster occurred.

Go to: http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/mobile-apps for more information

Areas in your house that mold can hide from you

9/11/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can occur anywhere in a home but mainly is concentrated to areas where moisture is present. These moisture areas are common to the bathroom and basements. Mold can cause respiratory problems and should be removed if found as soon as possible. Most restoration companies only do mold inspections if the mold is visible, an industrial hygienist would come in and search for traces of mold that are not visible.

One of the first places mold can collect and you may not think to check is under the refrigerator. Under the fridge tends to collect moisture and dirt which can cause a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

Another place is the AC unit. AC units are known to collect debris, dust and moisture from the air, which can lead to mold spores.

Mold can even grow in or around a washing machine or its parts. Moisture and lint can cause a presence of mold spores.

Other area in the house include anywhere moisture and dirt may form such as window corners.

Why Trusting a Restoration Professional After a Fire Is So Important

8/16/2017 (Permalink)

Because of the convection pattern that flames typically form during ignition, smoky residue saturates every opening. The soot constructs up in layers that may end up being solidified and tough to eliminate which is another reason to leave the cleaning to a specialist. When the cleaning teams do arrive, they promptly different salvageable items from charred debris, taking the things creating the strongest odors out for cleaning.

Following a fire, wall surface areas can be harmed by soot. Non-water based cleaners need to be used to remove soot from walls. These kinds of chemicals should be handled by a specialist due to the fumes and toxicity. Water-based cleaning items can cause spots to bleed into plaster walls which is why a trained specialist should be left to deal with these chemicals.  

Most importantly, a restoration effort reduces the after-effects a blaze can have on the health of those who return in. If a homeowner does not have the property restored by a professional, the results can be found later on down the line. To an untrained eye they might believe the issue has been fixed, they experience the remaining impacts of indoor air pollution for numerous months later on in the form of increased respiratory discomfort.  

Companies like SERVPRO are leading experts in fire restoration. They are trained to help remove your belongings as well as cleaning and storing them until your property has been restored to its original condition.

Back To School Home Safety

8/16/2017 (Permalink)

As we are nearing the end of August, and parents are enjoying their last few days before school we can only think of the many safety tips that parents should consider around the house.

In the Kitchen:

 -Are knives, forks, scissors, and other sharp tools in a drawer with a childproof latch?

-Are glass objects and appliances with sharp blades stored out of reach?

-Are matches and lighters stored in a locked cabinet

In Bedrooms:

-Are window blind and curtain cords tied with clothespins or specially designed cord clips?

-Is there a smoke alarm outside the bedroom?

In Bathrooms:

- Are razor blades, nail scissors, and other sharp tools stored in a locked cabinet?

-Are all medication bottles, loose pills, coins, scissors, and any other small or sharp objects out of reach?

- Are all bleaches, detergents, and any other cleaning products out of reach?

Electrical:

 -Have you checked for and removed other potential electrical fire hazards, such as overloaded electrical sockets and electrical wires running under carpets?

- Are all unused outlets covered with safety plugs?

August Is National Water Quality Month

8/8/2017 (Permalink)

In the United States most of us are fortunate to have fresh drinking water available to us, and this is due to the thousands of water systems working hard to make that happen.

Most of our tap water is safe due to the regulations and standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency thru the safe drinking water act. This protects our water supplies as well as the sources of where our drinking water comes from.

You can help do your part by making an effort to keep your water sources clean. Using non-toxic house products, not dumping things other than water down storm drains, and not flushing medication down the toilet or sink are just a few things you can do to keep the water in your area clean.

For more info visit:

http://www.drinktap.org/blog/searchtag/national%20water%20quality%20month.aspx

Large Loss Division

8/7/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bethesda/Potomac Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether it’s a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. 

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Good thing we are one of these Commercial Large Loss facilities.

The Large Loss team consists of large-loss specialists that are highly trained. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and highly trained crews. 

Some of our clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include:

The Pentagon

Hospitals

Hotel Industry

Universities

Municipalities

Property Management

Ladder Safety

8/7/2017 (Permalink)

As the summer comes to an end and people are having work done to get ready for fall such as; paint jobs, cleaning gutters, one should pay careful attention to the following ladder safety tips.

Ladder climbing takes place in almost every home and workplace. 

Falls off ladders are near the top in causes of fatal work related injuries in the construction industry and the third leading cause in all industries combined.

- Be sure to inspect the ladder before using it. Check for broken or missing parts, as well as grease, oil or other substances that could result in a slippery surface.

- To ensure stability, place the ladder on firm, even ground. Make sure it is not near any electrical wires or power lines.

 -  When setting up the ladder, use the 4 to 1 rule. For example, if the ladder touches the wall 16 feet above the ground, the feet of the ladder should be 4 feet away from the wall.

 -  Before climbing the ladder, make sure the braces are fully extended and locked in place. Never climb higher than the third rung from the top of the ladder, and never try to “jog” or “walk” the ladder to a new location. Descend and relocate the ladder instead.  

-When working from a ladder, stay in the center and do not reach more than a comfortable arm’s length away. Keep your feet braced against the side rails and lean slightly forward.

-Always face the ladder when ascending or descending.

-Whenever possible, work within sight of someone who could provide assistance in the event of an emergency.

SERVPRO Named to Entrepreneur's Top 10 Franchise List for 7th Consecutive Year

8/23/2016 (Permalink)

 SERVPRO, a cleanup and restoration franchise company, maintains its hold on the top ranking in the Restoration Services industry for the 13th consecutive year and moves up to the number four spot overall in the 2016 Franchise 500 rankings from Entrepreneur magazine. This is the seventh consecutive year SERVPRO has been included in the magazine's Top 10 list, standing out in a group of more than 951 franchises that qualified for inclusion in the list.

Entrepreneur magazine's Franchise 500 selection process uses "objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation" to help would-be entrepreneurs identify franchise investment opportunities. Some of the most important factors considered by Entrepreneur in developing the list each year are "financial strength and stability, growth rate and size of the system."

"This recognition affirms that SERVPRO is a dynamic organization that continues to grow and strives to always provide superior support for its franchisees, and by extension its customers," said Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc., chief executive officer. "The recognition that the company earns year after year in this prestigious list is confirmation of a commitment to excellence that starts at the top and is evident in the service that each franchisee provides to each and every customer."

According to Steen, a number of differentiators set SERVPRO apart from the competition and fuel the attractiveness of the company to both existing franchisees and would-be entrepreneurs looking for a strong business opportunity. Key among these are:

• SERVPRO's strength as a brand with a national footprint, wide-spread market penetration, laser-focused brand messaging, and the ability to create national partnerships with organizations such as the PGA TOUR and the American Red Cross.
• SERVPRO's commitment to being a learning organization, which keeps training and support at the forefront of the company's culture and philosophy of success and helps franchisees plan, track, and deliver best-in-class services to consumers.
• SERVPRO's focus on continued development and support for proprietary software and systems to allow the company's operational capacity to keep pace with an aggressive growth strategy.

Steen adds, "One of the potential pitfalls of growing too quickly is outpacing your capacity to train and support the franchisees. SERVPRO is a conservative company, and early on we took the time to build a strong system and put the building blocks in place to support growth without sacrificing support to our franchisees." "Today," Steen continues, "as a mature franchise organization with more than 1,700 locations under a single brand, recognition like this makes it clear we are reaping the rewards of having laid a solid foundation and a framework to handle quick growth. As our brand continues to grow, we will continue our winning strategy of supporting and improving upon our infrastructure and investing resources in training and support."

SERVPRO specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration services, helping both commercial and residential customers recover from property damage emergencies "Like it never even happened." For more fire prevention tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit www.SERVPRO.com/.