Preventing Water Damage Caused by Frozen Pipes

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Water Removal Services During the Winter in the Siouxland Area

As most people know, winterizing your home in the fall can help prevent issues in the winter when the temperatures drop and snow flies. Prevention is always the key to avoiding costly damage caused by cold temperatures or snowfall. 

When it comes to deterring frozen pipes and ice damming in the Siouxland area, most homeowners know the basics of winterizing your home. However, for houses that seem to be prone to damage in the winter, there are several steps you can take to prevent issues related to cold weather. First off, it is always wise to remove outdoor water fixtures, including hoses and sprinkler systems.

If certain sections of your pipes have frozen in the past, you may need to take steps to keep them warm in the wintertime. One way is to wrap a UL-endorsed heater tape to your water lines with a thermostat to prevent overheating. A less expensive way is to cover all of your pipes with foam insulation. It is also wise to heat your sink drain lines with a lamp or leave your cabinets open, especially on cold nights.

If your power happens to go out during a storm, you should open both your cold and hot water faucets so the water keeps moving. You can also go through your hose and seal off any gaps or cracks near any of your water pipes. Other more permanent prevention methods are a thermal convection-powered hot water recirculation valve or installing a "RedyTemp" system that monitors the water temperature inside your lines.

But, if you still notice a leak caused by a pipe freeze or ice dam, our SERVPRO technicians can help in the following ways:

• Water Removal Services
• Water Damage Repairs
• Applied Structural Drying (ASD)
• Water Clean Up

Anytime you notice water inside your house where it is not supposed to be, call SERVPRO of Sooland at (712) 274-2416).

SERVPRO Restoration Services Benefits When Filing Insurance Claims

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

When storm damage and flooding affect your Sioux City area home, it can be difficult to know where to begin with cleanup efforts. Filing an insurance claim can be an effective first step, but even this can be difficult if you are not sure how to describe or evaluate the problems. Working with a storm damage restoration company like SERVPRO can help you communicate more effectively with your claim services and get the process started quickly.

1. Experienced Technicians Will Inspect and Catalog Damage

When multiple rooms in your home are damaged by a major storm, gauging the extent of the damage may be a challenge due to the presence of flood water and other debris. Experienced flood technicians can survey each room and begin the remediation process, and what they report to you may help you file an insurance claim with more confidence and speed.

2. They Respond Quickly

Once your home is damaged by a storm, getting in touch with claim services right away can help expedite the filing process, and they can send an emergency response restoration team out to help kick start the cleanup process. The faster the techs reach you, the sooner you can receive detailed information about the likely total amount of your claim.

3. The Cost of Restoration for Some Items Will Be Clearer To You

After a storm damages your home, you will probably have questions about the cost of restoring valuables and keepsakes and how you might file a claim to cover this service. Restoration experts from SERVPRO can discuss your options with you and help you understand what services your items require, as well as the cost of each, so you can file a claim right away.

When storms and flooding damage your Sioux City area home, starting the cleanup process can be a daunting task. Calling your insurance claim services and a restoration company before you try to salvage your belongings can make the filing process simpler and give you peace of mind during restoration.

3 Ways to Fight Bathroom Grout Fungi

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO van

When it comes to weekend chores, cleaning the bathroom is probably not your favorite task as a Sioux City area homeowner. Scrubbing the toilet and wiping up hair and soap residue from the sink can be daunting work, but one issue you may find especially challenging is how to remove bathroom mildew from your shower’s grout. This fungus can be stubborn once it dries into the grout; however, there are a few strategies you can use to banish it for good.

1. Create a Natural Cleanser

If you want to avoid the harshness and strong odors of bleach-based household cleaners, you can make one out of natural ingredients. You will need lemon juice, baking soda and vinegar. Mix the vinegar and lemon juice together in equal portions, then add the baking soda slowly until it forms a paste. Spread this mixture onto the grout and let it sit for twenty to thirty minutes. The ingredients in the paste should loosen the mildew and make it easier to wash away.

2. Soak the Grout Overnight in a Dishwashing Solution

When the entire family takes hot showers, this can create a humidity problem that causes mildew to form in the shower wall’s grout. If you want to avoid scrubbing this fungus away, you can soak the tile overnight in a solution of blue dishwashing liquid and a touch of white vinegar. In the morning, simply rinse the grout and wipe away any film left behind.

3. Call a Professional Mold Removal Service

If you are dealing with severe bathroom mildew, you may want to call in a professional mold remediation and removal company for assistance. Qualified technicians can bring in a variety of tools and cleaning solutions that are not available publicly to deal with stubborn mildew. These techs may also be able to provide you with strategies for keeping grout clean in the future.

Dealing with bathroom mildew in your Sioux City area home can be frustrating. However, keeping these cleaning tactics in mind can help you banish fungus safely and effectively.

Why do we like quick mitigation?

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage Timeline after you home is inundated with flooding from a broken pipe.

Within Minutes of a Water Damage

• 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 after a Water Damage: 

• 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 after a Water Damage: 

• 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 After a water Damage:

• 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 us at 712.274.2416 if you have questions about the problem in your home.

Faster to Any Disaster!

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

If a storm strikes your home or business, call SERVPRO of Sooland at 712-274-2416. SERVPRO franchise professionals are leaders in fire and water cleanup and restoration.

Even minor water intrusion has the potential to cause major damages to a structure, if not treated quickly mold can become a concern as well.  

Why you should call SERVPRO

SERVPRO has over forty years of experience on restoring water damaged homes and businesses from coast to coast. SERVPROS' Disasters Recovery Team is trained and equipped to handle the largest storms and flood waters. 

Floods can strike anywhere

• The principle causes of floods in the western United States are snow melt and rainstorms. 
• Underpasses can be extremely dangerous during a flash flood especially at night.

If you have any water damage that is caused by storms call SERVPRO of Sooland at 712-274-2416.

We're Here to Help

Storm Event Response!!

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

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

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quickly and with all the right resources. A fast response will lessen the damage, limit further damage, and reduce the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Large Storms

When storms hit the Siouxland area, we have the resources to scale up our response to handle a large storm or flash flood disaster. When needed we can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country and we have elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, SERVPRO^© Franchise Professionals are prepared for the unpredictable.

What Makes SERVPRO Stand Out

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

As a restoration company, our aim is to be the trusted resource among clients. We ensure that we follow industry standard protocols. Our staff members go through IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration) training to be best prepared for all the services we offer. They are also certified with OSHA, Lead, and Asbestos awareness. We maintain a large inventory of equipment for residential and commercial work. The extensive list was added to this past week with more equipment being sent to our team. Air movers, dehumidification equipment, air scrubbers, specialty drying equipment including desiccants and generators all help complete the work in a timely manner. Lastly, our team members utilize technology and client documentation to make sure that everything is recorded properly. Our proprietary software that documents and records all the essential information is needed to make sure that these pieces are easily accessible. 

Water Damage…What Can I Do Until Help Arrives?

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Sooland we are available 24/7/365 days a year for your water damaged home or business.  When it comes to water damage quick action is crucial and a delay, even a small one can cause more serious damage to your property. 

We understand that during this stressful time you need someone to walk you through this process.  SERVPRO of Sooland has the specific water damage training to walk you through the difficult and often times confusing moments following a disaster in your home or business.  If you need emergency services, we recommend calling our team immediately to get this process under way.

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

• Ask yourself, is it safe to stay in this home or property?
• If it is safe to stay remove any slip and fall hazards.
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.

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

When you call our SERVPRO Representative will ask you some quick questions, these questions will help us know what equipment and tools to bring with us. Here is an example of what they will ask:

• Name & Contact Information.
• Street Address of the affected home or business.
• Insurance Information if applicable.
• Cause of water damage.
• Approximate time water damage occurred.
• Is there electricity available on site?

Once our SERVPRO Priority Responder is on-site they will walk you through the entire process of restoring your property while our highly trained technicians get to work quickly working on mitigating damage and restoring your home or business.

What to do about frozen pipes

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

A burst pipe can cause a lot of water damage, so call on our team when you are experiencing the damage in your home or business.

Frozen pipes can cause a lot of issues and cost a lot of money! One pipe burst in a home at 4-8 gallons of water running per minute. This can cause thousands of dollars worth of water damage. If not taken care of and mitigated properly, then this can then lead to mold issues.

Prevention:

1. Locate and identify any and all shut off valves in the home and make sure they work properly.  (Everyone should know where their "Main Water Valve" is at and how to operate it)
2. Identify any potential problems. (Areas where pipes are on an outside wall, ceiling, attics, crawl spaces, etc)
3. Seal any gaps around the home where cold air has a chance to come in contact with pipes.  In extreme cold temperatures, especially wind driven, even a tiny opening can let enough cold in to cause a pipe to freeze. (Dryer vents, windows, cable penetrations, etc.)
4. Turn off and drain all standard outside hose bibs.

When the temperature is expected to drop:

1. Open kitchen sink and any vanity doors of the areas that are at risk for problems.
2. With pipes that are on outside walls that may be a freeze problem, leave a small trickle of both of the hot and cold water running.
3. Temporarily seal off any crawl space vents that may be around the foundation.
4. Keep the house warm.

What to do if you experience a frozen pipe: (The first sign of a "frozen" pipe is reduced or no flow at all)

1. If you experience a "no flow" situation (First turn off the "Main Water Valve" to the house and leave the faucets "open", Second DO NOT use any open flame to attempt to thaw the pipes, Third DO NOT use any electric heater, hair dryer applied directly to the piping as any leaking water may cause electrocution, and Forth turning the water back on is best handled with (2) people.  One person turning on the water SLOWLY and the other walking about the house to be sure no water is running).
2. Heat and patience is the best way to get frozen pipes thawed out.  We do recommend that if a frozen pipe happens to find the source and correct it so it will not happen again.  (If you were lucky enough for the frozen pipes not bursting this time, you may not be so lucky the next time.)

**Please be advised if the water to your house is shut off, it may also turn off any fire prevention system you may have hooked up to your water

What to do if you leave your home during the winter months:

1. Turn the Main Water Valve off to your home**
2. Leave the heat on to the house and set it NO LOWER than 60 degrees.
3. Have a neighbor stop by daily, especially when the temperatures are in the 20's or lower.

**If your home has "hot water and/or steam heat", the water must remain on even when you are not there. A neighbor stopping by is critical if this applies to you.

How Filing an Electronic Insurance Claim Benefits Your Business

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

You can get your business back up and running quickly by filing your insurance claim electronically.

When a fire, flood or other disaster strikes, all you want to do is get your business back to work. Unfortunately, filing an insurance claim takes time. Some claims involve extensive paperwork and time-consuming research. Fortunately, with the advent of electronic claims submission, the process is much easier.

5 Benefits of Filing an Electronic Insurance Claim

1. It Is Faster to File

Electronic claims are generally faster to file. You can simply:

• Take photos of the damage
• Log into your insurance companies claim submission site
• Fill out the claim forms
• Upload your photos
• Submit your claim

Paper claim forms can be confusing, the digital versions usually have help files or in some cases, you can chat with a claims representative while you are filing your claim

2. It Is Submitted Directly to the Insurance Company

Claim forms can get lost. They go straight to the insurance company with direct electronic filing without the postal service being in the middle. Your insurance claim cannot get lost in the mail when you file electronically.

3. It Can Be Filled Out and Submitted for You

Many insurance companies recommend having a restoration company, like SERVPRO, submit the claim for you. The cleanup technicians can take pictures, document damage and write down relevant expenses while doing the remediation. It is that simple.

4. It Can Be Accessed From Anywhere

Your claim information is easily accessible from just about anywhere in the world. You can check on it where ever there is an internet connection. It can also be sent anywhere, and your claim documents are already digitized, so if you have to send them elsewhere, you can do it with just a click of a button.

5. It Can Get You a Quick Response

When you use a digital method of filing, the insurance agent is not necessarily involved. The insurance company and adjusters get it directly. You do not have to bring paperwork or file your claim through an agent or agency.

By filing your insurance claim electronically, you can get your business back up and running quickly. These are just a few of the many benefits of electronic filing.

Pumping Out Floodwater From Your Home

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Contact a local remediation company for help.

Has external flooding resulted in a basement flood? While it is natural to want to remove the water as soon as it accumulates, it is crucial to keep in mind that as long as external flood levels are high, no amount of pumping will eliminate your flooded area. Contact a water mitigation expert for some tips on how to cope with the continuous flooding, and get prepared for how to deal with the aftermath, especially if your insurance coverage is not adequate. There are two things you will need to know about water removal.

2 Things You Need To Know About Water Removal

1. Purchasing or Renting Equipment

You will want to buy a pump for when the flooding recedes outside. However, depending on the depth of the basement flood, you may need to purchase or rent a submersible pump. These pumps have sealed electrical cords and can often connect to regular garden hoses. Keep in mind that the larger the hose, the quicker water is removed. You may also need a generator to run the pump since it is not advisable to use your home's electricity because of the safety risks.

2. Setup and Water Removal

The first thing you will want to do is attach the extension cord to the unit. Make sure to secure the cable above the unit somewhere dry. Most homeowners choose to secure the extension to a ceiling joist or stair rail. Next, you will need to attach the hoses to the unit. Finally, you will want to tie a rope to the unit to allow you to lower it at different depths throughout the removal process.
With everything connected, lower the unit into the water. If the water is only a few inches deep, then you can find the lowest point and place the unit there. However, if the water is a few feet, you may want to start at the highest position. Once in place, plug the unit into the generator to start the pump.

While removing water from your basement flood is easy, the damage may be hard to manage. Contact a local remediation company for help.

SERVPRO: An Exciting Franchise Opportunity

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Consider a SERVPRO franchise for a new business opportunity.

When you're ready to take a new business opportunity, consider a SERVPRO franchise. There are many positive factors to consider:

• Locally owned
• Strong corporate support
• Modern technology
• Industry recognition

How do these factors make SERVPRO one of the best opportunities for your next business venture? You could ask a local disaster recovery and restoration technician, and you can do some research into local and corporate opportunities.

Local Ownership

When you own a local franchise, you may already have a strong network that includes family, friends, neighbors, and other business owners. You have a working knowledge and familiarity with the storms, disasters, and emergency situations that are most likely to occur in Colorado Springs, CO. Local ownership also means that you can respond quickly when customers need an immediate response.

Strong Corporate Support

SERVPRO has franchises across the country with strong support from corporate headquarters. Corporate teams support franchise owners by facilitating training and sharing requirements from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. Corporate representatives help franchise owners maintain a high level of quality for consistency from one franchise to the next.

Modern Technology

In addition to purchasing cutting-edge machinery and cleaning supplies, each SERVPRO franchisee has access to a comprehensive database and information-sharing software system that connects all franchise owners with insurance agents and other professionals.

Industry Recognition

SERVPRO is recognized as one of the top disaster recovery and restoration franchise companies in the country. This recognition comes from Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 List and from IICRC, the industry certification leader. Corporate representatives and franchise owners work hard to maintain compliance with the highest industry standards for restoration and safety results. Each technician is certified to provide top quality results.

Available Opportunities

A SERVPRO franchise is a solid business investment based on several appealing factors. Reach out to company representatives to learn more about the opportunities open in your area. This may be a great time for you to take a new step forward.

ERP- Emergency Ready Profile

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

As many as 50% of businesses many never recover following a disaster. A fire to a business is devastating and can cause it to completely to shut down. It is said as many as one in four business that suffer is some kind of major disaster do not reopen afterward. However, the ones that do survive usually have a preparedness plan in place. One-way SERVPRO helps business be prepared is with the ERP profile.

Is your business Ready? With SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) you can make your business ready. The ERP is at no cost to you, and it's a guide to help you get your business back and ready to go after any disaster. It provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It's considered a quick reference of all your building and contact information. With this plan you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action, knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is key to timely mitigation and how water or fire damage can affect your business. SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order. Don't hesitate, just contact to set an appointment to get your free ERP.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile Document that contains 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 lone of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Why SERVPRO for Mold Remediation Services

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

This picture is showing what mold would look like inside of a home

There are many different types of molds and they can occur both indoors and outdoors. Molds are a form of fungus and they thrive in environments that are moist and warm and can grow on almost any material. Some common indoor molds include Penicillium, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Alternaria. Mold tends to have a rough or fuzzy appearance depending on what kind of mold and what surface it is growing on, and it can also be a variety of colors as well.

• Penicillium mold tends to grow on materials with water damage and it usually has a blue or green appearance
• Aspergillus mold grows on materials such as drywall
• Cladosporium tends to grow on fabrics and it can grow in either cool or warm environments
• Alternaria occurs in damp warm places such as bathroom shower or under a sink

Mold Remediation and Restoration

Permitting mold growth to continue ultimately results in structural damage, ruined personal belongings, and the risk of health effects. SERVPRO of Sooland takes note of the stress and anxiety of finding a mold infestation in your home. We train our technicians comprehensively concerning mold remediation techniques, employing the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) curriculum and or SERVPRO Employee Certification Training Program (ECTP), the industry’s standard.

The crews we dispatch to assess and respond to mold damage complaints hold Applied Microbial Remediation certification. Protocols used were developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and demonstrate success in abating current mold damage and limiting future problems. We want to set our customers’ minds at ease concerning our reputation as qualified mold remediation experts in the Sooland region.

SERVPRO of Sooland for Your Mold Problem

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Discovering mold in your house can be unsettling. Many people's first thought is how they can get rid of the mold without using a remediation company. While it seems like it could be a quick, easy way to remove the mold, many problems can arise from amateur clean up of mold. The most common problems are: 

1. Creating a larger problem-Mold can spread easily and most amateurs won't have access to the appropriate equipment and will actually spread the mold, making the problem even larger. 
2. Bringing over contaminants into your home- Mold remediation companies have equipment that is specifically made to get rid of mold. One major one is an air filtration device that prevents contaminants from getting into your home. Without this device, the contaminants will spread. 
3. Experiencing health effects from mold-This is another benefit of equipment. Mold spores can cause health effects, but mold remediation experts have the proper protective equipment that helps them avoid these effects. 

As you can see, using a professional to get rid of mold in your home can be extremely beneficial. SERVPRO of Sooland is an expert in mold remediation and always willing to help! If you discovered mold in your home, please call 1-712-274-2416.

Why SERVPRO is The Best Choice This Holiday Season

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

We all have that memory where either a pipe burst or something was left on the stove for too long.  With the holidays just around the corner, SERVPRO of Sooland wants to ensure that you and your family have an unforgettable holiday season.  We know this time of year is very fast paced, from picking friends and relatives up from the airport, shopping for presents, hiding the presents from the kids, to decorating and cooking.   In the spirit of the holidays, some things that may be overlooked could become a hazard. SERVPRO of Sooland has a few tricks up our Christmas sweater sleeve that we want to share with you!

1. Never connect more than three strings of incandescent lights.  More than that may not only blow a fuse but can also cause a fire.
2. Keep living trees fresh by watering daily.  Dry trees are a serious fire hazard.
3. When decorating use battery powered candles. Candles start almost have of home decoration fires
4. Stay in the kitchen when something is cooking.  Unattended cooking equipment is the leading cause of home cooking fires.
5. Turn off, unplug, and extinguish all decorations when going to bed or leaving the house.  Unattended candles are the cause of one in five home candle fires. Half of home fire deaths occur between 11pm and 7am. 

Most losses that happen are unexpected, so even following the steps above doesn’t guarantee that a pipe won’t burst or a fire won’t start, but here at SERVPRO of Sooland we understand that and want to be the first one you call.  We offer our services 24/7, 365 days of the year! For all losses, give us a call and we promise to schedule a meeting promptly as well as communicate everything happening! Give us a call at 712-274-2416.

Happy Holidays, we hope SERVPRO of Sooland made your nice list!

We are Cleaning Experts

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call us at (712) 274.2416

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

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

Fire Drills

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Fire drills are not just for schools, they should be completed by businesses and families alike. It is crucial to the safety of all that everyone knows more than one way out of the building or home, the designated meeting spot a safe distance from the structure where a headcount can be taken to inform first responders of anyone left in the building and what to do should they not be able to have an escape route. We like to suggest that customers regularly perform a “fire drill” so that everyone knows what to do and how to keep themselves and others safe. If disaster should strike your home, we are ready 24/7, 365 at (712) 274-2416 to help walk with you through the cleanup and repairs to help you make it “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call us at (712) 274-2416

Who You Gonna Call?

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help during your time of need. When you call we answer even if it is 10 PM on a Friday, your call will be answered.  We understand that when you have water coming through light fixtures or sewage backing up into your shower and onto the bathroom floor that you cannot wait until business hours on Monday.

That is why when you call, we answer. We are able to speak with you, get details about what is going on and dispatch a crew as soon as possible.

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call SERVPRO of Sooland (712) 274-2416

Be ready for a Bio-Hazard

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn and you are faced with situations you never could imagine. We will come out and perform an inspection with you to help determine the plan should a bio-hazard occur at your business. Our trained technicians will create a Ready Plan with you so that all your team members will know what to do and whom to call should a disaster strike. 

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call SERVPRO of Sooland (712) 274-2416

SERVPRO of Sooland Knows what to do if Mold Grows in your Home

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, certain species of mold can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call us at (712) 274-2416

What to do until help arrives

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Have A Water Damage Emergency? 

With over 1,700 Franchises nationwide, there’s a SERVPRO Professional nearby and ready to serve you.

What To Do After Flooding

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

What NOT To Do After Flooding

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

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call us at (712) 274-2416

Rely on SERVPRO for Safe Bio-hazard Cleanup

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

Blood, bodily fluids, and other biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. When a site in your home or business has been contaminated, how do you make it safe again? Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Sooland for top-notch biohazard cleanup and restoration services.

Avoiding Health Risks Is it necessary to seek professional assistance in cleaning up a location impacted by crime, trauma or death? With the risks posed by blood-borne pathogens and dangerous communicable diseases, cleaning a scene contaminated with biohazards like blood is a perilous undertaking for anyone who lacks the proper training and equipment. It is unpleasant to think about, but blood and bodily fluids are prone to splattering so that minute amounts can affect a wide area. The air at these scenes can be hazardous since small particles can become airborne if dried material is disturbed. Anything removed from the scene must also be disposed of properly to avoid spreading the contamination. Besides, you cannot assume the area is safe again just because the visible traces have been removed. If a space contaminated with blood or other biohazards is not appropriately cleaned, sanitized and restored, these unseen hazards can linger, posing a threat to anyone who enters it. Ultimately, the best way to make sure that a place is once again safe is to use a professional organization like SERVPRO that is experienced in biohazard restoration.

Preventing Legal Repercussions As if the health risks created by biohazards are not dire enough, failure to have a contaminated space properly cleaned can also have serious legal consequences. The responsibility for cleaning up after a crime, trauma or death falls on the Sooland property owner, and there are regulations and laws regarding how biohazards are handled that must be followed. These rules are designed to safeguard everyone, and ignorance is not considered an acceptable excuse for disregarding them. Individuals and businesses that do not follow these rules may find themselves facing hefty fines. They might even be held liable if someone else is injured by their actions. Using a professional team that understands what is required to comply with the various rules and regulations governing biohazards in your area can shield you from both health risks and legal issues.

Focusing on Your Safety At SERVPRO of Sooland, we are committed to the well-being of our customers. Offering emergency services 24 hours a day, we will rapidly respond whenever you request our assistance. Our technicians follow the protocols established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), so you can be confident that they have the expertise and training to remove all biohazards and dispose of them properly. We use specialized equipment that allows us to detect the presence of even a minute trace of a biohazard, and we do not stop until your scene is thoroughly sanitized. As biohazard restoration professionals, we can often salvage items that others might have to discard, and we ensure that any material that does need to be removed from your location is disposed of appropriately. Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO of Sooland for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, we are ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind. If a traumatic event has occurred on your property and you require assistance with the cleanup, contact us now to discover more about our https://www.SERVPROsooland.com/biohazard-cleaning/ and secure our help.

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call SERVPRO of Sooland (712) 274-2416

Why SERVPRO

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important in a disaster event. 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.

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call us at 712.274.2416

Fire Drills

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Fire drills are not just for schools, they should be completed by business and families alike. It is crucial to the safety of all that everyone knows more than one way out of the building or home, the designated meeting spot a safe distance from the structure where a head count can be taken to inform first responders of anyone left in the building and what to do should they not be able to have an escape route. We like to suggest that customers regularly preform a “fire drill” so that everyone knows what to do and how to keep themselves and others safe. If disaster should strike your home, we are ready 24/7, 365 at (712) 274-2416 to help walk with you through the cleanup and repairs to help you make it “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call us at (712) 274-2416

What’s the Difference between Mold Removal and Remediation?

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy.

A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth. SERVPRO of Sooland Professionals have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. To learn more about our mold remediation process.

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call SERVPRO of Sooland (712) 274-2416

Emergency Water Damage Service 24/7

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sooland 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 of Sooland 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)?

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call us at (712) 274-2416

Faster to Any Size Disaster

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important in a disaster event. 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.

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call us at (712) 274-2416

Keeping Warm This Winter

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

With the winter season upon us and the temperature starts to drop, we often turn to anything that can keep us warm in our homes. From heating a certain room with our space heaters to cuddling up with your loved ones in front of a warm fire. All of which can be potentially dangerous. Here are some tips to keep you safe while turning up the heat.

Fireplace Safety Tips:

• Before starting a fire, make sure the damper or flue is open. Keeping this open will draw smoke out of the house. Using a flashlight to look up the chimney can check the damper. Never close the damper until the embers have completely stopped burning.
• Use dry or aged wood in your fire. With dried wood, it burns with less smoke and burns more evenly. If you use wet or green wood, this cause more smoke and contributes to soot buildup in the chimney.
• Smaller pieces of wood positioned on a grate burn faster and produce less smoke.
• Make sure to clean out ashes from any previous fires. The levels of ash at the base of the fireplace should be kept to 1 inch or less. A thicker layer restricts the air supply to logs, resulting in more smoke.
• You should get your chimney checked annually by a professional. Even if the chimney is not due for cleaning, it is very important to check for animal nests or any other blockages that could prevent smoke from escaping.
• The area around your fireplace should be clear of anything that is potentially flammable.
• Never leave the fire in your fireplace unattended. Make sure the fire is out completely before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Install both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure to test them monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.

Peace of mind over the holidays and winter season can be increasingly difficult. Educating your family on these safety measures can eliminate the likelihood of a fire in your home and keep your family safe and sound.  

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call us at (712) 274-2416

Specialized and Unique Equipment – Large Loss Electric Desiccant

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

Using a Large Loss Electric Desiccant is a new way of drying that reduces the humidity in a building to the perfect climate within a building after a water disaster.  This desiccant allows us to meet the needs of larger residential and commercial water restoration jobs, instead of having multiple dehumidifiers in the affected area we are able to bring in this machine to cover the whole space.  This Large Loss Electric Desiccant acts as a high-capacity mobile dehumidifier, which allows us to dry large spaces faster and with less energy. These skid- and trailer-mounted units are perfectly manufactured for the most proper and substantial vapor pressure reduction and active temperature control management. The desiccant has already made a large impact on our drying process in large loss situations.

SERVPRO of Sooland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call us at (712) 274-2416