SERVPRO Makes a Difference When Disaster Strikes

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what happens, you can count on us to help

Disaster can take many different forms, all of which can leave a trail of destruction and devastation behind.

At times like these, you can rely on SERVPRO for quality restoration and rebuilding. Our employees are trained to handle any kind of damage and leave your property looking “Like it never even happened”.

Here in the West Chester area property owners face challenges ranging from brutal snowstorms to fires.

Any of these can cause severe water, soot and smoke damage, and if it isn’t handled properly and in a timely manner it can become even more dangerous and costly.

Storm-related damage can be particularly devastating to the many historic properties in the West Chester area.

Snow, ice and water can all impact roofs and gutters, leading to severe leaks and potentially hazardous mold infestation.

Water that seeps in through foundations or flooded basements can also weaken already compromised support structures.

With over 50 years in the business, SERVPRO has been the name to trust when any kind of disaster strikes and we’ve got the training and equipment to handle all of your water restoration, fire restoration and mold remediation needs.

We’re prepared to respond 24/7 because we know how important it is to move quickly when damage occurs.

Whether you’re dealing with a simple household accident or a major disaster you need a name you can trust for professional restoration and remediation service.

Call SERVPRO and we’ll make your property look “Like it never even happened”.

Take Steps To Prepare For Storm Damage

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

After the storm... You can count on SERVPRO

Storms can hit in both warm and cold months and can have serious effects, including broken windows, damaged shingles, and flooded basements.

While it may not be possible to avoid storm damage entirely, there are some steps that residents of the West Chester area can take to guard against it and potentially save themselves money and headaches when the storm is over.

This area is rich in history, reflected by the sizable West Chester Downtown Historic District which contains over 3,000 buildings.

That makes it even more important to do everything you can to protect your property so it can withstand storm damage. 

Here are four simple steps you can take:

1. Guard against wind damage – Stay on top of roof repairs, keep gutters clean and use window covers or storm shutters to guard against strong winds. Protect any attached structures like porches, decks, and carports to be sure they’re stable and take in any outdoor furniture or other loose objects.
2. Check your landscaping – Remove any loose tree branches, tie down any shrubs that might get pulled up and blown, and consider changing your gravel driveway and walks to shredded bark, which is much less destructive when blown.
3. Review your insurance – Do a regular review of your insurance policy and you won’t face any surprises when it comes time to file a claim.
4. Take plenty of photos – Filing an insurance claim will be much easier if you have a complete record of the current status of your home before the damage occurs. Photos will help prove the extent of damage and will allow you to compile a thorough inventory.

No matter how prepared you are, when you’re facing storm cleanup you need professional help you can rely on.

SERVPRO is prepared to handle all of your storm damage restoration needs, with thorough training and state-of-the-art equipment.

We know how devastating storm damage can be and we’ll do whatever it takes to get you back on your feet again.

When storms hit turn to SERVPRO, the name you can trust for professional restoration services.

Odors from Floods May Require SERVPRO's Expertise & Equipment

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Physical damage from a storm is simple to spot. The clean-up processes are labor intensive and require heavy equipment for parts of them. Trying to remove other damage such as the odors left behind from flood waters are often just as difficult.

When it comes to flooding from severe storms, time compounds the problem. If a house or apartment has suffered structural damage, then it may be several days before the owners or an SERVPRO restoration team can even enter.
Once we do enter and ensure a safe work environment, team members track down the source as best as possible. Since there are multiple, potential sources throughout the structure, the likelihood is that there are many odors as well. To combat them all, we use the multiple methods approach, which pairs different types of deodorants depending what is needed.
Masking agents are time release beads which cover unpleasant odors with a pleasant smell while other agents absorb or otherwise neutralize them.

Absorption and filtration agents use activated charcoal to absorb the sources of the odor; specifically, the humidity, moisture, and oils.

Disasters Don't Plan Ahead. You Can

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Chester Recognizes National Preparedness Month with a Reminder to Home and Business Owners: 

As your local disaster restoration specialist, we offer no-cost tools to help property owners prepare a comprehensive emergency readiness plan.

 September is National Preparedness Month http://www.ready.gov/September), an annual event sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to raise awareness about the importance of preparing—in advance—for the unexpected. In support of this initiative, the owner of SERVPRO® of West Chester, Rich Quinn, encourages property owners to take the following two steps now to protect their family, home, and business in the aftermath of a disaster.

1. Review and update your emergency preparedness plan, including business and life continuity plans. If you don’t yet have a plan, use the tools provided by FEMA to get started. (https://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan)
   
   
2. Collect and store time-critical information, like the location of shutoff valves, fire suppression system controls, and emergency contact numbers electronically, where it is immediately available to assist first responders.

“Evacuation plans and emergency supply kits help you survive a disaster, but a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan helps you recover from a disaster,” said Quinn. “The most effective response to any emergency is a fast response. That’s why having critical system and contact information at your fingertips is so important. A quick and effective response helps minimize repairs and downtime, helping both businesses and families get back on track in less time, with less stress.”

 SERVPRO offers tools for both commercial and residential property owners to help them minimize damage and recover quickly from emergencies. The SERVPRO READY app stores essential contact and property information electronically where it can be accessed with a mobile device in seconds if disaster strikes. Both home and business owners can download the FREE APP at https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp.

Regional West Chester area business owners can take an additional preparedness step by designating SERVPRO of West Chester as their disaster mitigation and restoration provider. SERVPRO of West Chester professionals will conduct a no-cost assessment of the facility and assist the owner in completing a comprehensive Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) and storing that profile in the READY app. “Rapid response from a disaster cleanup and restoration specialist can help the property owner evaluate options, start the insurance process, and take the right steps from the beginning to bring their property back to normal,” said Quinn. “Even in the confusion and panic that often surround a disaster, a property owner or manager using the SERVPRO READY app can reach out for expert help right from the scene, using a cell phone, call 610-692-8884 or https://www.SERVPROwestchesterpa.com.”

Why You Should Have Commercial Cleaning Done at Your Business

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Americans spend most of their waking hours at work. While many businesses use a cleaning service, the actual cleaning performed is often minimal, with a quick vacuum and emptying of trash. Deeper dirt, dust, allergens, and pathogens remain in carpets, on blinds, and deep within the upholstery of office furniture. There are so many benefits to having a commercial deep cleaning done at your business. First, employees thrive and work better in a clean, and fresh environment. Think about it, no one would want to work in a dirty environment, especially people who have allergies, and other health conditions.

By doing a deep commercial cleaning, you also prevent the spread of viruses and diseases. This means less sick days, and healthier employees which is key. It also is a more professional appearance when customers or clients walk into your business. If you have a clean environment, customers notice that as well. It also leads to long term cost savings. Having a deep commercial cleaning helps keep the cabinets, desks, and carpets in better condition, and having them last longer.

Consider having SERVPRO of West Chester do a deep commercial cleaning at your business. It just makes sense for your business to thrive in multiple ways.

What is Mold?

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Molds are various types of fungi (singular = fungus) that grow in filaments and reproduce by forming spores that can travel through the air. The term mildew refers to some kinds of mold, particularly mold in the home with a white or grayish color or mold growing in shower stalls and bathrooms. Mold may grow indoors or outdoors and thrives in damp, warm, and humid environments. Mold exists in essentially any environment or season.

The most common types of household mold found indoors include Cladosporium, Penicillium, Alternaria, and Aspergillus. Stachybotryschartarum (also known as Stachybotrys atra and sometimes referred to as "black mold") is a greenish-black mold found indoors, although it is less common than the other types of mold found in homes. Stachybotrys grows on household surfaces that have high cellulose content, such as wood, fiberboard, gypsum board, paper, dust, and lint. There are types of mold that can grow on substances as different as foods and carpet.

Molds reproduce by forming tiny spores that are not visible to the naked eye. Mold spores are very hardy and can survive under conditions in which mold cannot grow, such as in dry and harsh environments. These spores travel through outdoor and indoor air. When the mold spores in the air land on a surface where moisture is present, mold can then start to grow.

Outdoors, molds play a role in the decomposition of organic material such as dead trees, compost, and leaves. They are most common in damp, dark areas or areas of decomposing plant life. People often find mold indoors in basements or shower stalls. Indoor mold in residential areas has the potential to cause health problems and can destroy surfaces and objects where it grows

Smoke & Odor Removal Can Be Tricky

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Many smaller fires thankfully lack major burn damage to the home, but can still create a mess through smoke, ash and fire extinguisher residue. Small fires, especially in the kitchen, can coat an entire room in smoke and ash even if they only burn for a few minutes. As a result, multiple treatment techniques and avenues must be considered and used.

SERVPRO of West Chester (SPWC) has a varied set of processes and equipment to uniquely assess the situation properly. We will professionally work with your insurance company, as a single restoration plan is developed. Here are a few different ways to deal with smoke damage for a small fire in your home or at your business. 
 
Heavy-Duty Cleaning Equipment 
Even “contained” fires in West Chester and Chester County can often require a sizable cleanup job. Ash and smoke tend to coat nearby surfaces thickly, and more common household cleaning supplies simply aren't strong enough to remove this smoke-caused material. SERVPRO of West Chester, the leading local fire and smoke restoration company has access to a variety of effective and specialized cleaning supplies that make short work of visible staining, streaking, and other non-burn damages that can be created by fire extinguishers being used. 
 
Deodorizing the Air
Once SPWC has cleaned up any visible damage, the scent of smoke can still linger in a room. Unfortunately particles become embedded in ceilings, walls, and objects, becoming extremely difficult for a homeowner to remove fully. It is virtually impossible to eliminate the smell of smoke without the right tools and solutions. Just cleaning the carpet is not enough. Typically by using an ozone machine monitored by a SPWC trained professional, the chemical makeup of the ambient air will do the trick. For stubborn situations, SPWC may use a thermal fogging machine to flush out the odors from a room, removing even the deepest smoke smells.
 
Carpet and Fabric Cleaning 
Objects and belongings usually also suffer fire damage. Carpets, rugs and other fabrics are some of the trickiest materials to deal with, as their small fibers are often both delicate and excellent traps for ash and smoke particles. Keep in mind documentation, electronics, furniture, frames and other valuables may need restoration, too. Count on SERVPRO of West Chester to lead the way on helping to bring your cherished items back to life. Our trained experts will assess the entire situation, property and contents so the repair and restoration efforts are professionally coordinated to the satisfaction of your insurance adjuster and yourself. Communication is the key on this front.

How can we help you? We promise to take the hassle out of getting your home or business back up and running. Call Danielle 610-506-8919. 

West Chester 24-Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Chester 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 - 610-692-8884

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 West Chester 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 of West Chester

SERVPRO of West Chester 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.

Do You Know Why SERVPRO Trucks are Green?

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

You've most likely seen the restoration crews of SERVPRO of West Chester out and about in your neighborhoods helping to recover disasters from fire, water and mold loss.  It’s hard to miss our green service vehicles as they drive through your local community.  But where did the green color come from?

In the early 1970s, the founders of SERVPRO® used a color chip paint sample chart to identify the most eye-catching color.  It was a highly technical process.  The founders showed the chart to as many people as they could and asked, “Which color on this chart would be impossible to miss?”  By a wide margin, the color most identified was 1970 rally green, a color used on Porsche 911 automobiles.

 Now used on entire fleets of vehicles in every SERVPRO franchise across the nation from production vans to disaster recovery storm trailers, our vehicles are prepared for any size disaster. 

Do's & Don'ts Following a Fire in Your Home

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of West Chester help take some of the burden of dealing with a house fire...we are always here to help!

There are so many emotions and questions following a house fire that it is hard to know what you should and shouldn't do.  Here are a few basic tips to keep in mind.

Don’ts

*Do not enter your home until you've gotten permission that it is safe to do so

*Do not start or move your car if it has been damaged

*Do not try to clean any of the smoke or soot damage yourself

Do's

*contact family members/loved ones to inform them of the fire

*attend to frightened pets and ensure their safety and comfort

*call all utility providers (electric, gas, water) to inform them of the fire

*call homeowners insurance company to begin the claim process

*find somewhere to stay. 

Most homeowner’s policies will have coverage, which will pay for the food, clothing, and shelter that you and your family may need for a specified period of time

Mold in your West Chester Commercial Property

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

call Danielle @ 610-506-8919

SERVPRO of West Chester understands mold and we want to educate our community about the best ways to prevent and treat your commercial property. 

Mold grows from mold spores which are too small to see unaided. Spores can survive harsh environments for many years. It can also grow almost anywhere. Mold needs to have above-freezing temperatures, protein such as  animal dander, skin cells, wood, plaster, carpet, and moisture or high humidity.

Mold grows rapidly, damages property, has a bad smell, is unsightly and can cause health effects.

If you have a small amount of mold on a dish, you can clean it. You can even throw it away. However, if you have a large amount of mold, you need licensed mold remediation from an industry professional. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines a “large amount” as 10 square feet or more.

If you suspect your apartment or office building might have mold, you need to have a certified mold inspector out to examine the area. SERVPRO of West Chester cannot identify what kind of mold you have, but we are licensed in mold remediation and we can repair the damage caused by mold.

When you have a concern about mold damage in your apartment or condominium, speak with your landlord or property manager if you think he/she should hire licensed professionals. Whatever the disaster, remember that SERVPRO is Here to Help.

If you suspect mold in your property, call Danielle at 610-506-8919.

Sprinkler Mishap at Local University

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help the local community

In mid-February , a sprinkler burst in a building on one of our local University campuses. SERVPRO was more than happy to help Cheyney University in Thornbury PA. There was standing water in the floor of the building when SERVPRO arrived on the scene. The sprinkler had dispensed water on the floors and the ceilings. When water damage is concerned, it is important to act relatively quick to ensure that the damage is contained. If the situation gets much worse, it can advance to more than just water damage. 

Typically, if the water is extracted, properly dried out and restored, the area affected should be alright. The area needs to be dried out within 48 hours. However, 24 hours is ideal. It takes mold 24 to 48 hours to begin growing in the ideal conditions. Sometimes, if not dried properly, mold will start growing but not visible just yet. When the water eventually dries, it will begin to show spots on the walls.

Luckily, in this case at our local university, SERVPRO acted quickly. SERVPRO knows the risks of water damage worsening and are always on the scene as soon as possible. The water was dried and the job done efficiently. SERVPRO is always happy to help. If your home or business ever has a wonder issue please call us sooner than later #HERETOHELP call Danielle 24/7 at 610-506-8919

A Quality Team for Quality Work

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

"Develop a team of quality people who focus on excellent service, fairness, and mutual respect." – A mantra used at SERVPRO headquarters every day and something we strive to accomplish at our franchise as well. At SERVPRO we pride ourselves on developing our staff to adapt to and, enhance our company culture and excellent customer service. We work day in and day out to ensure our employees know that they matter and play an integral part in making our franchise a success. In turn, they make sure our clients know how important they are and we will do our best to restore their lives and properties back to normal. Customers continue to choose SERVPRO for our quick response time, our highly trained and qualified team and our ability to make them feel as if they are the only client we are serving. Here in West Chester, we will continue to serve our community to the highest standard.

Happy National Employee Appreciation Day

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

In honor of National Employee Appreciation Day, we would like to recognize some of our employees who have received excellent customer reviews. The hard work and dedication of our team is a major reason we are ablet to run a successful business and keep customers coming back. We appreciate all of their hard workday in and day out.

Bruce B. reviewed SERVPRO of West Chester

Water Leak Cleanup - Five Star Review

We were doing some upgrades to our upstairs bathroom when an unforeseen leak from the bathtub came down through the kitchen ceiling. I called SERVPRO in West Chester and they scheduled an appointment to remediate the water damage in the kitchen. The two technicians, Tristan & Mike, came out and installed the dehumidifier and air fans to insure there would not be hidden moisture in the ceiling that might turn to mold. They were courteous and professional. The next day Dan came to our house to verify that the equipment was performing properly. It was. A couple days later Mike returned to verify the drying process and remove the equipment. I recommend this SERVPRO team to anyone in the West Chester area!

Jan 05, 2022 - FIVE STAR REVIEW! – GREAT JOB TRISTAN, MIKE AND DAN

Richard M. reviewed SERVPRO of West Chester

Basement Flood Resolved - Five Star Review

After finding a flooded basement due to a heater pipe leak I foolishly thought I’d take care of it myself. About 4 hours of exhausting work and no substantial progress SERVPRO’s motto of “Like it never happened.” was ringing in my head. Danielle answers the phone, at all hours I might add, professional, courteous and accommodating to the needs of the job. The technicians came right out. 3,4 sometimes 5 men were on the job. 13 fans, 3 dehumidifiers. 2 men came back everyday for the next 3 days during times convenient for me to adjust and remove equipment as necessary. Did a great job. I highly recommend them. As for Danielle, she appears to never sleep. I think she wears a cape and has a big red S on her shirt.

Feb 02, 2022 - FIVE STAR REVIEW! – WAY TO GO DANIELLE!

SERVPRO of West Chester is Here to Help!

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

We love our community!

SERVPRO of West Chester recently helped to restore a historical college back to its original beauty after it took on water and mold damage. SERVPRO of West Chester is dedicated to serving its local community while maintaining its original charm and historical value. We pride ourselves on playing a key part in keeping our surrounding communities in tip-top shape.  

Call Us Today

If you experience a water or mold damage emergency, SERVPRO® of West Chester is ready to respond 24 hours a day, every day, and can be onsite in four hours to begin the cleanup and restoration process. Call us today at 610-506-8919. We’ll clean and restore your water and mold damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Smoke Detectors - Need to Know

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors save thousands of lives every year.

While conducting regular inspections in your home it is imperative to monitor and test all smoke detectors throughout. Having smoke detectors with dead batteries, that are not installed correctly or that need to be replaced is only putting you and, your family in harm’s way. Working smoke detectors should be a top priority in your home’s safety plan with batteries being tested at least once a month. Also, be sure to keep your smoke detectors clean and dust free for maximum efficiency.

It is important to have working smoke detectors on each floor of your property. Heat and smoke rise and will make its way up stairs and through openings. For this reason, the best place for smoke detectors to be installed is on ceilings. Smoke detectors should be installed in every room and hallway on the property to ensure maximum safety of all occupants.

There are two types of smoke detectors you can choose from when creating a safety plan for your property:

Photoelectric smoke detectors use a light sensor to detect smoke. Smoke enters the detection chamber and blocks the light beam which allows it to reflect light onto the sensor. This, in turn, trips the smoke alarm and warns occupants of a potential fire. Photoelectric smoke detectors are great for early detection of fires as many times there is smoke before there is an actual fire. It gives you time to assess the situation, notify your loved ones and, retreat to safety.

Ionization smoke detectors use ionized particles to detect the presence of smoke. The reaction between radioactive material and two electrically charged plates located in the smoke detector causes the ionization of air and a current between the two plates. Smoke enters the detector, disrupts the current and, triggers the alarm for the safety of the occupants. Ionization smoke detectors tend to perform more effectively with open flame fires as opposed to smoldering fires.

Neither smoke detector is better than the other and to ensure the highest safety for you and your loved ones your property should have both installed. It is also recommended to install both interconnected and hard-wired alarms throughout your property. Interconnected alarms are just that; connected together so if one alarm goes off, they all will go off. Hard wire alarms are connected to the main power supply.

Be sure to replace your alarms every 10 years and have a fire safety plan intact that each property occupant is aware of. No measure is too great in protecting your property and loved ones from an unexpected fire loss. 

If your property takes on smoke or fire damage, please reach out to your local SERVPRO...

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants residents and business owners to know that we have the training and state-of-the-art equipment to respond to any water, mold or, fire damage emergency. We will clean and restore your damage “Like it never even happened.”

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Prevent Rain Gutter Clogs and Back-up

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Take measures to keep your gutters clear of blockage and debris.

1. Clear gutters of debris on a regular basis. Mother nature makes it easy for rain gutters to get clogged with items such as leaves, acorns and, twigs and branches. Take measures to regularly monitor and clear out your rain gutters.
2. Be sure to keep near by trees trimmed and tidy to limit the amount of debris entering your gutters.
3. Once cleared, place gutter guards or covers over rain gutters to stop debris from ever entering. Of course, small particles and items may make their way through the guards but this is a terrific step to reduce waste that ends up in your gutters.
4. Make sure downspouts are cleared of any debris as well. This will limit back-up into the actual gutters.
5. The design of your gutters could be causing back-up and overflow. Splash guards can be installed to prevent rain from “jumping” over the gutters.
6. Ensure that your gutters are the right size and slope to maximize the efficiency of water drainage. If gutters are too small or receiving too much rain at once they will overflow and not drain properly into the downspouts.
7. Keep animals and their homes out of your gutters by using non-toxic sprays or ultrasonic sound emitters.

How to Avoid Sprinkler System Issues on your Commercial Property!

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

We are #HeretoHelp!

Most Common Problems!

• Scaling
• Corrosion

Water can be corrosive to metal piping if it differs from a neutral pH, and impurities in the water can lead to scaling.

Scale is a build-up of minerals on the pipe surface. As minerals fall out of water, they attach to the pipe surface. The pipe opening becomes constricted. This constriction limits water flow and increases pressure loss.

Corrosion happens as charged ions in water attract ions from metal pipes’ surface. This can eat away parts of the metal surface, and lead to pieces flaking off. Corrosion deposits can settle in the sprinkler head outlets and limit how much water can be released.

How to Avoid these Issues:

• Valve status tests
• Internal piping assessments
• Fire pump operating and flow tests
• Forward-flow tests for backflow preventers
• Risk assessment and performance-based testing programs
• Preparing pre-planned impairment reports
• Hydrant flushing and testing
• Overall system testing

Fire sprinkler system malfunction is a serious issue and risk, and can cause your commercial property to suffer serious water damage. However, if you keep an eye on your system and make sure to take preventative measures, you should be in good shape!

If the worst case scenario does occur, and you suffer water damage, we are here to help! Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and West Chester! We are faster to any size disaster, and will make it “Like it never even happened.” We work in cleanup, restoration, and construction, so we can help your commercial property get back to normal after disaster strikes. Call Danielle at 610-506-8919 so we can help today.

Water Damage Emergency Tips

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Use these tips, and call SERVPRO right away!

What you can do until help arrives?

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

• 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!

What To Do After Flooding

• 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 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.

Stay safe and call Danielle at 610-506-8919. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester has got your back! We are always here to help & faster to any size disaster. We can also help with commercial water damage, as well as home and business concerns. No job is too big for our certified mitigation team.

Types of Water Damage caused by Blizzards

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is #heretohelp!

As we get our first snow of the season, it is important to know what type of water damage you need to be on the look out for! Here are some of the worst culprits:

Frozen Pipes Burst

Even when you’ve done all you can to winterize your home and pipes, plunging temperatures can freeze even insolated pipes. As the water inside the plumbing turns to ice and expands, it causes problems from small cracks and leaks, to complete system failure. The resulting water damage can be very severe.

Ice Dams Form on the Roof

When snow accumulates and then begins to melt and freezes into layers of ice along the roofs edge, snow dams are created. They form a thick ridge of ice, putting additional strain on already stressed roof edges, fascia, and eaves.

Roof Runoff

The damage from accumulated snow and ice on the roof can’t always be seen. But as temperatures rise and fall during the day, the snow packed on top of a house melts and then refreezes. This can cause water to seep into brickwork, siding, and even ceiling joints.

Flooded Basement

When the snow begins to thaw and melt, heavy snow and ice runoff quickly soaks yard and fills up street gutters. The soil around your foundation becomes saturated with moisture that seeps into the basement through small cracks, and can cause your basement to flood.

But have no fear, because SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and West Chester is here to help. These things are best left up to the professionals, and SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster. Call Danielle at 610-506-8919 so we can help!

How an Air Duct Cleaning Can Help You!

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

Let us help you breathe easy!

Are you or another family member suffering from allergies? Dealing with any odors or generally poor air quality in your home or business? Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your home or business.

If your HVAC has been operating for some time now without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:

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

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester Technicians routinely inspect heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units (HVAC).  Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment, which can in turn save you money! As well as giving you cleaner air to breathe.

However, duct cleaning is not always necessary. In this case, we will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your system. We are here to help!

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
• May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

For more information on HVAC and air duct cleaning, call Danielle at 610-506-8919 so that SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can help you breathe easy!

Snow Safety for your Dog!

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Keep your Best Friend Safe!

We all know dogs love a good run around in the freshly fallen snow! But it is important for us to keep our furry best friends safe, so they can keep having fun!

Is snow safe for dogs' paws?

This is a complex question! There are some risks to look out for, including these potential hazards:

• Freezing temperatures and frostbite
• Toxic chemicals on sidewalks and streets, usually in the form of ice melting salts
• Sharp ice
• Objects hidden under the snow

How to Protect Your Best Friend:

Regular Grooming

Make sure your dogs' paws are winter-ready! Trim long-haired dogs to make it less likely for bits of ice, salt crystals, or ice melting chemicals to dry and cling to their skin. Especially trim any extra hair growing on their paws.

Regular Cleaning

Avoiding all the ice melting salt on the roads and sidewalks after a snowstorm can be almost impossible. So just be sure to clean your dog’s paws as soon as you get back home from your walk! Warm water and a cloth should do the trick. You should always wipe down your dog anyway, and make sure they don’t stay wet for too long. After drying them off with towels, let them sit by the fireplace if you have one.

Shorter Walks

Dogs should not be left in the cold for long periods of time because they are also at risk for frostbite on paws and hypothermia. In general, you should avoid letting your dog spend hours out in the cold. In winter, frequent short walks are better, than one extremely long walk.

Dog Boots

Just as you wear boots in the winter to protect your own feet, dog shoes or booties can prevent injury and protect your dogs paws! They can protect your dog’s paws from salt, ice balls, and sharp items that may be hidden under the snow. Your dog might not love them at first, but with time and patience, you can train your dog to enjoy wearing their booties!

Beware of Too-Cold Weather

It’s good to keep in mind that if the weather is too cold for you, it’s also too cold for your dog. Just as you can’t leave a dog in a hot car in the summer, you can’t leave a dog in vehicles alone in the winter either as it could get far too cold. Any extreme temperature is dangerous.

Be Mindful!

Pay attention to your dog’s behavior and check for any signs of discomfort or distress. Make sure to get your dog medical attention if they show any signs of being in pain.

Keep your best friend safe, and we will worry about the rest. Call Danielle at 610-506-8919 if you have any damage from winter storms! SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to help!

What Can Cause Condensation in your Attic?

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

Attic condensation can cause water damage!

Attic condensation is a form of water damage typical to cold weather, and can be tricky to fix.

Condensation of water vapor on cold surfaces, such as in attics, can cause wood to rot. This can lead to extensive damage and very costly repairs.

Condensation in attics typically occurs when warm, moist air moves or is directed into the attic from the living spaces below in a home. Unusually high humidity in the home’s living spaces is strongly associated with attic condensation problems.

Building codes have requirements to prevent the problem of attic condensation, but unfortunately codes don’t address all the issues, and many houses are built without following building codes. Your builder or designer should understand the relationship of humidity and air movement when designing and constructing homes so that these problems don’t occur. However, if this is not the case, there are steps that you can take to prevent condensation in your attic.

Prevention

• Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, as well as dryer vents, should never open into the attic space. They should always discharge outside. You may have a well ventilated attic, but it won’t make a difference if the bathroom exhaust fan constantly dumps warm, moist air directly into the attic space. This could result in condensed water vapor freezing onto cold attic materials, which will eventually thaw and create wet attic materials. This will result in damage in the attic and inside the home.
• Minimize the amount of ceiling mounted fixtures below the attic. These create the need for holes in the drywall or plaster. Make sure that any of these that do exist are properly sealed. They need to be airtight.
• Keep your attic air temperature below freezing when the outside air temperature is in the low 20s. Proper attic ventilation is key to keeping the attic cool, while insulation keeps the rest of your house warm. You have to keep vents free from obstructions so that the natural flow of cool outside air is not hindered, and can replace the warmer attic air that rises. The flow of air will keep the attic cool and free of moisture build-up.

If you do experience any water damage this winter, give Danielle a call at 610-506-8919 so that SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can help!

Have a Sweet Holiday Season!

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

Hope you have a sweet holiday season!

Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe!

Here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester, we want to make your holidays sweeter!

What you'll need:

• 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 and 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder, and set aside.

Step 2

In a large bowl, mix together the softened butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Gradually blend in dry ingredients, set aside in step 1. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto un-greased cookie sheets.

Step 3

Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let cookies stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks.

Step 4

Enjoy with friends and family! Happy Holidays!

If you need anything, give Danielle a call at 610-506-8919 so SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can help! We want your holidays to be sweet, and stress free!

What Causes Pipes to Burst? And How to Prevent It!

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

If you have frozen or burst pipes, we can help!

Although cold weather may seem less threatening than a rainstorm or a hurricane, it can cause water damage, as well. It’s important to understand the threat of water damage from freezing weather so you can recognize the signs and try to prevent or mitigate as quickly as possible!

Frozen or Burst Pipes

External faucets and plumbing in unheated areas within your house, such as in your garage, crawlspace, attic, basement, or kitchen cabinets are at the highest risk. Pipes exposed to severe cold such a hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines are at high risk, as well. You also have to watch out for pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation.

Prevention

You can prevent frozen pipes by applying heat tape or insulation. You can also keep faucets at a slight trickle to avoid pressure build-up, and fully turn off your water if you leave town and won’t be using it for an extended amount of days. Be sure to drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacture directions. Remove, drain, and store hoses inside for the winter. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open hose bibs to allow water to drain and then keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining is able to expand without causing the pipe to break. You can also open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes. Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and night, and if you go away during cold weather - it may incur a higher heating bill, but will prevent a much more expensive repair due to frozen or burst pipes!

If you do experience any water damage this winter, give Danielle a call at 610-506-8919 so that SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can help!

Top Causes of Commercial Water Damage

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage? Call Danielle at 610-506-8919!

• Broken or Damaged Pipes – Freezing temperatures and a change in pressure can cause pipes to become damaged or burst. If you notice stains, cracked or loose tiles, or if you notice a musty smell – don’t wait! Call a professional to help you find the cause to stop the spread before any further damage occurs.
• Leaking Sprinkler Systems – Look for wet carpets, mold, a musty smell, or any standing water in your building. Any of these clues could indicate an issue that needs to be addressed immediately by a professional. Inspect your system often for potential leaks so you can prevent damage.
• Damaged Roof – Extreme weather such as heavy winds, rain, or snowfall can cause damage. It can also be a problem of improper roof maintenance, missing shingles, or a fallen tree trunk that caused structural damage. Be sure to regularly check for signs of damage so you can avoid secondary damages such as mold.
• Damaged HVAC System – Maintaining a clean HVAC system is essential for keeping your commercial premise safe and comfortable for employees and customers. Over time ducts can wear out or get damaged, which can lead to water leaks. In order to avoid this or spot issues early on, make sure to have your HVAC regularly cleaned and maintained by a professional.
• Window Damage – Damage to windows or window seals can allow moisture and water to seep into building. Left unresolved, the excessive moisture will lead to mold, warping wood, and more water damage. Windows should be checked regularly, and caulking reapplied occasionally since it will wear with time.
• Severe Weather or Natural Disasters – Flash floods, hurricanes, thunderstorms, and other severe weather can, of course, cause significant damage to your property - including water damage. Nobody can prevent natural disasters, but you can take precautions, including getting a free Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) from SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester. Having a plan will make it easier to resolve issues quickly! And we can help you!

If your business does suffer any water damage, give Danielle a call at 610-506-8919 and we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Signs of Water Damage due to Storms

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to help!

Due to heavy rainfall caused by the recent Hurricane Ida, many homes and businesses are experiencing flooding! Here are the signs of water damage to look out for:

• Dark or Wet Spots – If you see any discoloration on the ceiling, interior, or exterior walls of your home, you should get it checked out for water damage.
• Cracking, Bubbling, or Flaking – Water damage may be present if the drywall or paint on your ceiling or walls begins to crack, bubble, or flake.
• Pooling Water or Puddles – Leaks or drips can cause pools of water to form. If a puddle just continues to come back in the same spot even after drying it out, you likely have a leak.
• Sounds of Running Water – Sometimes you can’t see any signs of water damage, but you can hear it. If you hear a dripping sound, rushing or running water, or even a creaking floor, you might want to look further. But they can be normal sounds as well, so really pay attention to changes in sound.
• Increase in Utility Bills – Have you noticed a sudden spike in your water bill? It could be a sign of hidden leak.
• Damp, Musty, or Moldy Smell – These smells can be an indicator water damage. You should call a professional right away.

Whether it’s a broken pipe or a hurricane, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware & West Chester is here to help! We can get your home or business back to normal, “Like it never even happened.” Call Danielle at 610-506-8919

What is a SERVPRO ERP?

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Contact us today so you will always be ready!

The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it NOW, not wait until the event happens! Nobody plans a disaster, but you can plan for it!

Did you know that as many as 50% of businesses never recover following a disaster? Most businesses that do survive have a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy toward your peace of mind.

Whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire, or a flood – any size disaster – preparation is so important! If you plan now instead of waiting for an event like to this to happen, you’ll be ready. Ask yourself, “Am I ready for whatever could happen?”

It’s a good thing SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to help! Our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) helps minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in case of any damage. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the way to a timely mitigation and can help minimize the amount of damage due to quicker action.

An ERP is a complimentary service. We perform a no cost assessment of your facility and create a concise Profile Document that contains all critical information that you will need in the event of an emergency. It takes very little time to complete and will not interrupt any of your current projects. An ERP creates a quick reference on what to do, how to do it, and who to call, so that you can be ready for anything! We give you a guide that helps you get back into your building as quickly as possible. It is designed to be a quick reference of important building and contact information. By creating an ERP with us, your business with receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of disasters. We can help you quickly get your property back in working order!

Call Danielle at 610-506-8919 so we can get started!

How to Make a Blackout Kit for Power Outages!

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Stay safe! And then call SERVPRO if you need any help! 610-506-8919

Weather around this time of year can be unpredictable. Just when you think it is going to get cold, the weather warms up a bit and we get extra rainstorms! Or suddenly, temperatures can drop to freezing overnight and cause a snowstorm! Either way, we are at risk for power outages all year round, so it’s always useful to be ready and have a blackout kit or emergency supply kit for your home.

Start with a large storage container!

Experts say that you need to keep all the essential items in one centralized location so you can easily find everything you need in the event of an emergency. You don’t want to be running around searching multiple drawers and cabinets in the dark! A clear container is especially helpful to easily see what’s inside, and using a container will also keep the contents clean and dry.

Basic food and water!

Make sure to have some canned or packaged food that won’t expire easily, and at least one package of plastic water bottles. The general rule of thumb is one gallon per person per day. Be sure to have the same supply of food and water ready for your pets, if you have any!

First Aid Kit!

Always have a first aid kit for your basic needs – but also add in your own medicine and personal products to suit your specific medical needs.

Flashlights and lanterns!

Keep at least one high quality flashlight in your kit for each member of the family. Store one or two battery powered camping lanterns, as well, to light up a room.

Battery-powered or crank radio!

Without wi-fi or cable, it will be hard to check on the news and get updates about the weather. If you keep a radio like this though, you can stay in touch with any updates.

At least one cooler!

Just in case you do loose refrigeration, you can pick up some ice, or even use snow, to keep your most important perishable items good.

Extra batteries and a portable charger!

Make sure you have replacement batteries for all your flashlights and other devices. You can also make sure to have a portable charger charged and ready to go so that you can recharge your cell phone.

This kit will get you through a power outage, and your safety always comes first! But if your home suffers any damage from the storm that caused the power outage, give SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester a call! Danielle is here to help 610-506-8919

What is a Puff Back?

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Puff backs are dangerous and messy! Professional help is needed due the oil mixed in the with the soot creating difficult stains. We can help!

While turning on your heat this winter, it is important to be familiar with the risk of a puff back.

A puff back is a premature explosion inside of a furnace where smoke, fumes, chemicals, and oil are carried out through the heat ducts and pipes instead of the intended heat. Not only is this hazardous and linked with heart disease, cancer, chronic pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis, and more – but it can also cause quite the mess. The smoke, fumes, and oil running through the heating ducts during a puff back can cause rooms to become covered in soot and stains. Because the soot has oil in it, it can be extremely difficult to remove.

Reasons why a puff back would happen:

• A gradual buildup of oil inside chambers of the furnace.
• One of the components of the furnace is not working properly.

How to avoid a puff back:

• Proper maintenance and regular attention to your heating system will substantially reduce this risk.

If you do experience a puff back, you will need professional help, and we are ready! Reach out to us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester. We can help clean and restore your home or property! Call Danielle 610-506-8919

What to do if a Pipe Bursts in your Business

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Let us help you get back to business!

The upcoming cold weather can cause serious issues for pipes in your building! Although cold temperature usually causes contraction, ice has greater volume than water. When water freezes inside a pipe it expands, and pressure within increases. The pressure eventually has to escape – and this causes the pipe to burst. Sometimes it is due to a weak joint, but pressure can also cause the side of a pipe wall to burst as well.

During extreme cold, you should turn on your faucets occasionally to allow a slow but steady stream of water to escape – only a trickle. This can prevent a pressure build up.

However, if you do in fact have a burst pipe in your building, immediately shut off the water main and call a plumber to locate the burst and repair the pipe.

If you have water damage from this unfortunate ordeal, be sure to call us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and West Chester! We can help repair and restore your business, so you can get back to what you do best – as quickly as possible. Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Creating an Emergency Car Kit for Winter Storms

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Sometimes you have to travel in snowstorms! Be ready!

Although usually snowstorms mean hunkering down and getting snowed in, sledding and enjoying time with family – sometimes in emergencies, it is necessary to travel. If you have to move during a storm, or are afraid you might get caught in one during your travels, here are items to include in your own emergency kit:

• Portable cell phone charger.
• Extra hats, coats, mittens, and blankets.
• A windshield scraper.
• A snow shovel.
• A battery powered radio with extra batteries.
• Flashlights, and extra batteries.
• Water bottles and packaged snacks.
• First aid kit and all necessary medications
• A pocket knife.
• Tow chains, rope, and/or tire chains.
• Cat litter or sand to help with traction, or road salt to melt ice.
• Charged battery and jumper cables.
• Emergency flares.
• Paper road maps.

These items will help you get to safety! But you can’t take your home with you when evacuating for safety – so call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester if your home suffers any damage from snowstorms this winter! Your safety comes first, and we can help you with the rest later. Call Danielle 610-506-8919!

Burning Leaves is Not the Answer

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Burning leaves is dangerous in many ways!

If you haven’t done it, you have smelled it – perhaps while taking a nice fall stroll. Every year, despite the fact that it is illegal in many states, some people choose to burn their leaves. It may be convenient, but it is a major fire hazard that you should not take part in.

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), burning leaves can produce particles and hydrocarbons that contain toxic, irritant, and cancer-causing compounds. When you burn leaves, microscopic particles from the smoke can enter your lungs and cause respiratory damage. These particles can even reduce the amount of air your lungs are able to take in.

Burning leaves also releases carbon monoxide into the air, which is dangerous, especially to infants and the elderly.

And if those aren’t enough reasons to stop you – burning leaves is a major fire hazard! Any individual leaf could get caught in the wind and flutter away from the pile, carrying smoldering embers with it. If you live in a dry area, it only takes a tiny spark to start a fire that will spread extremely fast. It doesn’t just pose a risk for you and your own home, but can harm your whole community!

Instead of burning leaves, the EPA recommends composting leaves. It’s safe and environmentally friendly! Composting will allow leaves and other organic materials to break down naturally without them releasing dangerous particles and embers into the air.

However, if you have experienced a fire that damaged your home or business, you can give us a call at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester. We can help you clean and restore! Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Fire Safety in the Workplace

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Keep your business safe!

A fire in a business can cause severe damage to structures, equipment, and inventory – not to mention a delay in production or sales, and danger to employees and customers. This is why it is so important to practice fire safety in your commercial property! Here are some tips:

• Make sure you have fire protection equipment, such as an automatic sprinkler system, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers on every floor. Employees should be familiar with their locations.
• Have a fire plan! Make sure your employees know what to do if there is a fire. Make an evacuation plan that does not include elevators. Conduct fire drills at least once a year to keep employees prepared.
• Always leave space around appliances that heat up – such as coffee machines and computers. They need the space to ventilate and cool down. If possible, unplug appliances at the end of the day to avoid an afterhours risk.
• Regularly check power cords for fraying, broken connectors, or cracked insulation. Replace them if there is any damage.
• Always keep a first aid kit available to employees in a familiar location.

You can also always check with a fire marshal to offer you some guidance, as well!

If your property does ever experience any fire damage, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester so we can help! You can reach Danielle at 610-506-8919.

Happy Halloween from SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester!

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Happy Halloween! Be spooky, but stay safe!

Our team here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wishes you a very a happy Halloween! We know you are all excited to put up your decorations and go out trick-or-treating, but we want to give you a few important Halloween safety tips – as your safety is always our top priority!

Halloween Lights and Electronic Decorations:

• Use outdoor lights and décor outside only, and indoor lights and décor indoors only.
• Whether lights, electronic decorations, or extension cords are brand new or used, always inspect them all for wear and tear before using!
• Do not overload extension cords.

Costumes for Children:

• Costumes should be marked as “flame resistant” on the packaging.
• Make sure the eye holes of the mask are big enough that your child can see in all directions – without proper visibility, your child is at risk of traffic hazards and tripping.
• Make sure children’s costumes have snaps and velcro as closures so that costumes can be removed quickly in case of emergency.
• Remember to check for proper ventilation in all masks!

Pumpkin Carving:

• Make sure to keep your hands and tool handles dry by frequently using a towel to dry them to avoid slips!
• Use a duller blade rather than a sharp one. You have to use a lot of pressure to cut through a pumpkin, whether the knife is dull or sharp, but this way you have less of a chance of also piercing your hand!
• Use a specially designed pumpkin carving kit, which includes saws meant to only slice through tough pumpkin skin.
• You can always use paint instead, so small children can feel more involved, since they should not be allowed to use knives.

Be spooky, but stay safe! Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester if any damage occurs to your home or property! 610-506-8919

Preventing Electrical Fires

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

Electrical fires can be extremely detrimental to your business. Damages can occur from both the fire and the water that is used during firefighting efforts.  As a business owner, it is important to know the steps to take to prevent electrical fires in your office.

Cords and Plugs:

Cords, plugs, and outlet damage are extremely common causes of electrical fires. If these items are tattered, frayed, worn out, or showing burn signs, they should immediately be replaced. Old cords that are in poor condition can overheat or spark which can lead to a fire. Replacing cords is a simple and non-expensive way to help prevent electrical fires. 

Outlets:

It is important to make sure your outlets are not overloaded, as this can be a huge risk factor for electrical fires. The United States Fire Administration recommends that power strips equipped with internal overload protection are purchased. These strips help ensure that a strip turns off when it becomes overloaded to help prevent fire damage.

Space Heaters:

Since space heaters are plugged in, they can be dangerous if not used carefully and correctly. Flammable materials such as paper, cardboard, coats, and rugs should be kept away from equipment that can become hot and overheat. 

Wiring:

Faulty wiring is a huge hazard and should be addressed immediately. If a lamp is flickering or an outlet is sparking, an electrician should be consulted to repair them as soon as possible. Appliances that are hot to touch and overheating should also be checked out by an electrician.

Inspection:

Your business should be inspected for hazardous situations that could potentially cause a fire. A licensed electrician can help keep your business and employees safe with a thorough assessment of the outlets, wiring, appliances, and other fire hazards.

Taking a few moments to ensure your business is safe from electrical fires is an easy, non-expensive way to keep you, your business, and employees safe. If you do experience a fire, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to restore any damages and get your business back to normal.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Tornado Watch

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

It is important to keep you and your loved ones safe during a Tornado Watch. Different ways you can do this are:

Before a Tornado:

Watch out for dark, rotating clouds. If you see one, take shelter immediately.

Listen for a tornado siren, if you hear one seek shelter immediately.

Turn on your TV/Radio to stay updated with the current weather and emergency instructions.

Avoid unnecessary car trips as you do not want to be caught outside if a tornado comes.

Bring outdoor furniture and other items that can blow away inside as they may become a safety hazard.

During a Tornado:

Take shelter immediately as flying debris and high winds can cause injuries.

Keep your windows closed and stay away from them. If a window breaks the glass can injure you.

If you are in a building, go to the basement or lowest floor. This is the safest location for you and your loved ones.

If you are in a mobile home, go to the nearest building or storm shelter as these will protect you more than you home.

If your car is hit by debris, stop, cover your head, and stay below the windows. You will be safer inside your car than outside of it.

If you are outside, lie down in a flat area and make sure to cover your head with your hands. You will be safer lying down than standing up.

After a Tornado:

Avoid entering damaged buildings as broken glass and exposed nails can injure you.

Keep away from downed power lines and objects touching them as they can electrocute you.

Wear sturdy shoes, long sleeves, and gloves when walking through debris. Stepping on nails and glass can severely injure you.

If you experience any Storm Damage from this tornado, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to repair your home or business to return it back to normal. 

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

The High Cost of Water Damage

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

The High Cost of Water Damage

Each year water causes billions of dollars in property damage and the longer water damage is left untreated the higher will be the cost of repairs. Exterior repairs can help protect your home’s exterior. Water will naturally find the path of least resistance and will seep inside structures through damaged irrigation systems, broken downspouts, leaking roofs, failing seals around windows and doors and from severe weather events and snowmelt. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester offers these tips form the Insurance Information Institute to repair and protect your home’s exterior from water damage:

• Caulk and seal windows 
• Inspect your roof for missing, damaged and aging shingles and make necessary repairs
• Remove debris that may have accumulated in downspouts and rain gutters
• Position downspouts so that they direct water away from the house
• Check sprinklers and irrigation systems to be sure they are not creating water damage to the walls and foundations of the house
• Turn off and drain outside faucets to protect against frozen pipes
• Install gutter guards to prevent gutter clogs and keep water flowing away from the house

Call Us Today

If you experience a water damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is ready to respond 24 hours a day, every day, and can be onsite in four hours to begin the cleanup and restoration process. Call us today at 610-506-8919. We’ll clean and restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Certified SERVPRO Cleaned

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Though things are looking up, The COVID-19 pandemic has set new standards for cleaning in the nation. As businesses have reopened their doors, it has become more important than ever to ensure customer and employee safety by performing frequent disinfecting and sanitization services.

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester has been offering a new, defensive cleaning program throughout this pandemic to proactively address the need for viral pathogen cleaning for commercial businesses. This cleaning program goes beyond the scope of a routine janitorial service and adheres to the cleaning and decontamination standards established by the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Based on your business type, size, foot traffic, congestion, and touchpoints, we will develop a customized program based on your specific needs. We will clean, disinfect, and sanitize all porous and nonporous surfaces, tools, furniture, and equipment, and will dispose of all hazardous materials. In the event there has been COVID-19 exposure, we will clean within 24 hours to get your business reopened quickly.

Our technicians are specialty trained and certified to perform a variety of biohazardous decontamination and chemical spill cleanup and restoration services and follow industry and CDC guidelines.

Certification

When your business has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned we place a decal on your door with the date of the cleaning so your customers will know when this cleaning was performed.

Call SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester today at 610-506-8919. We’ll clean and restore your commercial business “Like it never even happened.”

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Mold Restoration and Cleanup

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

There’s so much to see and do in Southern Delaware County & West Chester and the landscape can change with the weather, from the rich color of the autumn leaves to winter snowfall. 

Unfortunately, that can also leave both residential and commercial properties vulnerable to water damage. Whether you’ve got a private home or a business, once mold invades it can become a costly problem.

Mold remediation can be essential in this area and that’s where the professionals at SERVPRO come in.  We’ve been serving this community for 15 years and we pride ourselves in having the personal touch. Since we live and work here too, we know what it’s like and we want to ensure that your home or business is safe.

Why Trust SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester?

Water damage is a serious matter that can have a devastating effect on both homeowners and commercial business owners alike. At SERVPRO, we understand the importance of responding quickly to every emergency and providing the most professional results every time. We’re ready to respond immediately 24 hours a day and we use state-of-the-art equipment to get the job done right. 

Speed is essential since mold growth can begin within 48 hours after initial water damage. Whether historic or brand new, every property deserves the best care and that’s what we provide, even ensuring that our technicians are trained in the most current mitigation techniques.

We’ll not only address the initial water damage, we’ll carefully remove and repair any damaged materials and safely dispose of anything that can’t be repaired. Then we’ll use our professional-grade equipment to thoroughly dry every inch of your property and ensure that mold growth is stopped in its tracks.

What Makes Mold A Problem

It only takes a small water leak for mold to grow and spread in your home or business. Once it begins, mold can spread rapidly, particularly if it gets into the air ducts, where it can begin to affect the entire building. That’s why quick and thorough mold remediation is so important and why the professionals at SERVPRO take their jobs so seriously.

Mold thrives in any dark, damp area such as a basement, garage, attic or closet and it can spread to fabric, clothing, and upholstery as well. Since it is made up of microscopic spores, it can become a problem before you even realize it, which is why you should always rely on a professional water mitigation company to handle your water emergency. Unfortunately, with the sometimes harsh winter weather, water emergencies can be common and water damage can be a huge problem.

 Remediation The Right Way

Removing mold is about more than just scrubbing away those nasty patches of white or black. More often than not, visible mold growth is just the tip of the iceberg. The only way to ensure that mold growth is completely eradicated at its source is with professional mold remediation services like those provided by SERVPRO.

We know exactly what it takes to treat the kind of water damage that homes and commercial businesses often face and we’re prepared to respond whenever you need us. We’ll arrive and assess the situation immediately and determine exactly what kind of response is required. Then we’ll go to work to provide complete remediation because our ultimate goal is to restore your home or business to its previous condition. 

Of course, the cleanup of commercial property can be more extensive, but no job is too big for us. We follow the same basic steps as home mitigation for commercial properties and rest assured, we’ll treat your business with the utmost care. As members of the community ourselves, we know how costly water damage can be to a business so our goal is to get your doors open to customers as quickly as possible.

We understand how important it is for mold remediation to be done the right way and that’s what we do on every job. You wouldn’t trust your family or your customers to anything less than the best and that’s exactly what you’ll get when you turn to SERVPRO. We’ve got the training, equipment, and personnel to ensure that mold growth is stopped at the source and your property is as safe as possible.

The Name You Can Trust In Water Mitigation

Life is beautiful in historic Southern Delaware County & West Chester, and the water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO are committed to keeping it that way. When water damage strikes your home or business, you can trust us to handle your property as if it were our own. 

That’s the promise we’ve been making to the local community for over a decade and it’s one we proudly stand by.

Mold Mitigation Professionals You Can Trust

Water is an integral part of life but it can also become a real problem at times. Whenever MOLD damage strikes your home or business, you need to act fast and rely on the water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO.  

We’re a name you can trust and we’ll do our best to serve every member of our community with care.

Call Danielle at 610-506-8919

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to help.  We are SERVice PROfessionals and are ready to respond to your moment of misery.

Recover from Fire Damage

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Reclaim Control of Your Life

When a fire strikes a home or business in Glen Mills, there is so much devastation in such a short time that the people may feel they have lost all control over their lives.

When fire and water take control of your life,

we help you take it back.

Call SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester at 610-506-8919. We have 24-hour emergency service 365 days of the year, so we can get technicians out to repair fire damage or water damage quickly.

Our technicians remove soot and smoke (both of which cause additional damage) and extract any water or moisture left from the fire-fighting efforts. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester has technicians who are experts at restoring fire-damaged or water-damaged building materials and contents.

The emergency team members also document every object and part of the building, noting its current condition and keeping a record of the steps to restore it to the preloss condition. If restoration is not possible, they document the reasons. They make working with insurance companies less stressful than it would be alone. Even better, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester works with most insurance companies, allowing people to attend to their families and employees or clients.

If there’s an emergency, we’re Faster to any size disaster.  Call us at 610-506-8919

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO Takes Care of Local Businesses

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is an independently owned and operated business in metropolitan Philadelphia. We understand that businesses need to focus on their services and products to operate smoothly.

That’s why SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is available to businesses for both the unpredictable and the predictable. Call us at (610) 506-8919, check our website, or send questions on the link provided by the website.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is prepared for the unpredictable

Recovery from storms, fires, flash floods, and other disasters is business as usual for SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester technicians are trained to clean or repair current damage and to prevent more damage. We aim to restore property to its preloss condition.

Weather-related disasters are not the only emergencies. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is an expert in cleaning to prevent the spread of viruses, bacteria, and fungi. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester also cleans and restores property after contamination, as well as after trauma or crime scenes.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester takes care of the Predictable

Even if no one ever spills coffee, messes happen. Dust and dirt accumulate, trash cans seem to fill themselves, and the floors never stay clean. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester supplies regular cleaning services to office towers, schools, military bases, and healthcare facilities.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester works with each company to design the right cleaning program; your business will get all of the services it needs, with none that it doesn’t.

Here to Help^®

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Protect Your Home from Summer Storms

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Ways to Protect your Home from Storm Damage

 Storms can happen anytime, and it is important to be prepared for when they do hit. Summer storms can bring violent weather that can cause major property damage such as winds, heavy rains, lightning, thunder, and hail. Taking precautionary measures can help you prepare and protect your home can help prevent extensive storm damage.

Secure Loose Items in your Yard

Outdoor furniture, grills, gardening equipment, lawn decorations, children’s toys can all blow away or be damaged during a storm. These items can also become dangerous with high winds and fly into your home, car, garage, or neighbors’ home. Bringing these items inside or in a shed can help prevent damage to both your home and these items.

Inspect the Roof and Gutters of Your home

Inspecting your roof for damaged shingles or gutters is important to making sure storms don’t prevent massive damage to your house. Damaged roofing and gutters can cause rainwater to leak into your house. It is important to inspect and repair these so that wind and storms do not damage your home further.

Inspect your Windows

Windows are a vulnerable part of your home during a storm as they can possibly leak or shatter. Making sure windows are properly sealed can keep out wind and rain during a storm. New windows are a great option as they are made of strong glass and are less likely to leak.

Protect your Home from Flooding

Flooding is an extremely common effect of a storm. It can lead to extreme water damage or mold. Checking your basement for leaks or cracks is an effective way to prevent flooding. Another important way to prevent flooding is to make sure your gutters drain away from your home.

Have a Backup Power Source

Storms commonly take out power which can be dangerous and inconvenient. Power is important to keep items in the refrigerator fresh and to make sure your cell phone and other devices are charged. Sump pumps may also stop working which may lead to basement flooding. Having a backup power source can keep you and your family safe from these occurrences.

Trim Large or Dead Tree Branches

Strong wind can cause branches to fly off of trees and into your home. Tree branches can also hit cars and power lines which can be potentially dangerous. Inspecting the trees around your property and making sure they are well trimmed can prevent extensive damage during storms.

Call SERVPRO for any Storm Damage!

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to help with any emergency storm damage to your property. We are available 24/7/365 to help protect you and your property from all damages. Call Danielle 610-506-8919

SERVPRO Restores Damaged Floors

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is a part of the greater Philadelphia area, just like the other businesses around Southern Delaware County and West Chester. We want every part of the community to do well, which is why businesses count on us to be Faster to any size disaster and to get the business back to normal operation after any kind of damage.

We might not notice the floors until something happens to damage them. Water from storms or floods or broken pipes can damage even concrete if left on its own and fire can leave soot and smoke damage even on marble. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Here to Help^®, regardless of the type of damage.  We take care of damaged floors from initial assessment through all of the repairs.

If the damage has exposed the floors to the outside, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester provides tarps and board-ups to protect the building(s) and contents. We also provide roof repair, making restoration easier and more cost effective because there is only one vendor.

Trained technicians clean and disinfect the floors, removing even hidden moisture, and mitigating any microbial damage. Count on SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester to clean, disinfect, and repair carpet, linoleum, marble, tile, and hardwood floors.

When fire and water take control of your life, we help you take it back.

Call Danielle at 610-506-8919. When disasters start taking vacations, so will SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester. Until then, we are available 24 hours/day, every single day.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Hurricane Season is Here

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Hurricane Season is Here

Hurricane season is here, and hurricanes have been known to cause damage all along the East Coast. Even if you are not in the direct path of a hurricane, the high winds and storm surges can cause property damage and flooding. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants home and business owners to know that we have years of storm damage restoration experience and we are Here to Help. ® Here are some of hurricane safety tips offered by the Office of Emergency Management, City of Philadelphia:

• Know your area’s flood risk and think about getting flood insurance
• If you live in an area that floods, keep sandbags, plastic sheeting and lumber on hand to protect your home
• Elevate your furnace, water heater and electrical panel and remove other items from the floor
• Know the safest evacuation route from your home and have a family emergency and evacuation plan
• Prepare a Go Bag with emergency supplies that you can grab and take with you in a hurry

Call Us Today

We hope you never experience storm damage to your home or commercial property but if you do SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is ready to respond 24 hours a day every day. Call us today at 610-506-8919. We’ll clean and restore your storm damage in “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Property Damage Insurance Claims

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

U.S. Property Damage Claims

Did you know that property damage, including theft, accounted for 98.1 percent of insurance claims in the United States? According to the Insurance Information Institute, (III), six percent of all insured homeowners filed a property damage insurance claim in 2017. The III goes on to explain that claims fluctuate from year to year due to weather-related events. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants residents to know that we are ready to respond to any size property damage call. We offer an array of cleanup and restoration services for homeowners and commercial business including:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building Services

24 Hour Emergency Service

From the moment you contact us, we can be onsite within four hours of your call, 24 hours a day seven days a week. Over the phone we will ask you a series of questions to determine the best approach to take to meet your needs including the number of technicians to deploy and the type of equipment to bring to the job site.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Here to Help. ^® Call us today at 610-506-8919. We will clean and restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Flash Floods

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

Flash Flood Watch

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, (NOAA), issued a flash flood watch for the area, due to a strong storm front that developed over the weekend. Flash floods can occur when a severe storm brings heavy rainfall to an area over a short period of time. Areas with poor drainage, creeks, and other watercourses can leave their banks and cause flooding to nearby properties. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants home and business owners to know that we have years of experience dealing with water damage emergencies, and  we can be onsite within four hours to begin the cleanup and restoration process.

Flood Safety Tips

Here are some safety tips from the American Red Cross to keep you safe until help arrives:

• Turn off the power and water mains if instructed to do so by local authorities
• Boil tap water until water sources have been declared safe
• Avoid contact with floodwater. Listen to local area radio, or TV stations for the latest information
• Don’t use gas or electrical appliances that have been flooded
• Dispose of any food that comes into contact with flood water

Call Us

Storm damage can become costly if not taken care of quickly. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester has a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond 24 hours a day, every day, to assist business owners and residents. We can also help with the insurance paperwork and process. Call us today at 610-506-8919.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Does Your Store Have Property Damage?

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

No Job is Too Big or Too Small

When damage harms your commercial business, it is critical to get the repairs done as quickly as possible in order to minimize the disruption to your customers and employees. Fire, water, storms, mold, biohazard spills and other disasters can cause damage when you least expect it, and if this happens to your business, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to assure residents that our team of highly trained professionals is ready to help you get back to business. We have experience working on:

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office and High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotels and Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail and Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing and Industrial
• Government and Military

We provide an array of commercial building restoration services including:

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

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants business owners to know that you can count on us to respond to any commercial property damage emergency 24 hours a day and we can be onsite within four hours of your call. Call us today at 610-506-8919. We will clean and restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

How do I Dry a Water Leak?

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

The immediate aftermath of a severe water leak can be daunting.

Many surfaces, from books and furniture to floors and walls, can be damaged by water and that initial damage can lead to mold and mildew growth if not addressed quickly and thoroughly.

Since mold growth can begin within 48 hours after water damage occurs, it is crucial to begin the remediation process immediately and specific guidelines should be followed in order to ensure that the job is done correctly. 

While it is generally a good idea to rely on professional remediation services, there are some steps you can take to begin the process yourself:

• Get Air Circulating

The best way to begin the drying process is by moving air.  You can do this both naturally, by opening windows and doors, as well as mechanically, using fans.

The size and amount of fans you need will depend on the amount of area that is involved; the larger the room, the more powerful the fan you’ll want to use. You can rent high-powered fans to speed up the process even more.

• Dehumidify

In a contained area, like a basement or rec room, with limited outside access, you can remove excess humidity with a portable dehumidifier. 

Shut the doors and windows of the room and remember to change the water collection drawer of the humidifier regularly if it doesn’t self-drain.

• Remove Standing Water

If there are several inches of standing water, a portable sump pump can be used to move the water out of the house. 

Direct the hose of the pump out a door or window and make sure the water flow is directed away from the foundation of the house.

• Use a Wet/Dry Shop Vac

For smaller areas with less standing water, a wet/dry shop vac can help to suck up the excess. They can be particularly useful for salvaging water-damaged carpeting and flooring. 

Never use a regular household vacuum on wet surfaces as this could damage the vacuum and be careful when emptying the canister of the shop vac, particularly if the water involved is contaminated with sewage or other potentially hazardous material.

• Remove Water Damaged Furnishings

Any objects that have been damaged by water, including rugs, furniture, and other belongings, should be removed and set in the sun to both begin the drying out process and reduce the moisture level in the room.

Sheet vinyl or linoleum flooring should also be removed to speed up the evaporation process. 

Any wet insulation underneath water damaged flooring or inside walls should be removed and discarded.

• Remove and Carefully Dry Papers

Books and papers that become wet may not be salvageable, but for important items you can help prevent mold growth and slow the deterioration process by placing them in a plastic bag and putting them in a frost-free freezer. 

Aside from this step, it will be necessary to handle paper items carefully in order to preserve them, including cleaning them off with soft brushes and using rubber gloves for your protection. 

• Absorb Excess Moisture

Once standing water has been removed, you can use desiccants such as silica gel, clay, or calcium oxide to absorb any remaining moisture.  Place the desiccant in either an air-tight container or a sealed area such as a closet.  It may take days or even weeks for them to become completely saturated.

Act Quickly To Avoid Hazards

Again, the faster you act to begin drying out a water damaged room, the better your chances of avoiding water-related hazards, including mold growth, dust mites, and the release of non-microbial chemicals from formaldehyde-treated wood furnishings, plastics or PVC.  Scientific evidence shows that these hazards can cause serious health effects. 

Call The Professionals

Because water damage can permeate beneath the surface of floors and walls and continue to be an issue for days or even weeks after the original emergency, it makes the most sense to trust a professional water mitigation company like SERVPRO. 

With extensive training, professional equipment, and the ability to respond immediately whenever disaster strikes, SERVPRO can ensure that your home is thoroughly dried out and returned to normal as quickly as possible.

It’s particularly important to have professional water mitigation when walls are damaged, as drywall can act as a wick and absorb moisture.

Even if the water damage isn’t visible, it can still lead to mold growth if it isn’t properly treated.

At SERVPRO we’re:

• trained to get beneath the surface, using specialized equipment such as moistures meters,
• infrared imaging devices and
• heavy-duty dehumidifiers and fans to ensure that your home is thoroughly dry and safe for your whole family.

When water damage occurs, getting the affected area dried out as quickly as possible is crucial.

To ensure the safety of your family, make sure you undertake the drying process properly, and don’t hesitate to call on the reliable water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Does Water Damage Happen Immediately?

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Water is one of the most destructive forces on Earth

It only takes a small amount of water to cause extensive damage, but just how quickly does that damage occur?

While some of the effects of water are immediate, there are other effects that may take days or even weeks to become apparent.

The extent of water damage depends on how long the water is allowed to stand or accumulate, but even after you stop the immediate cause there can still be lingering effects.

For this reason, it is imperative that you recognize exactly how water can affect your home and how to properly clean up after a water related emergency to prevent further damage.

Water Damage Within Minutes

The first signs of water damage will be to carpeting, fabrics and furniture items that come in contact with standing water. Porous materials like carpeting, fabric and paper will soak up and retain water, causing them to become discolored and begin to swell. 

Furniture that is standing on carpeting will begin to leech and stain the carpeting.

The first step in repairing the damage is to identify the source of the water and resolve it if possible.

In the case of a burst pipe or leak, shutting off the water supply to your home should do the trick.

If the cause is flooding from a storm then you’ll need to wait until the storm is over and begin removing the standing water as safely and quickly as possible.

Water Damage Within Hours

Even if you are able to quickly cut off the source of the problem, damage can still occur within hours of first contact with water.

As the humidity level rises, odors become apparent and fabrics that are not colorfast will begin to bleed, potentially staining other materials they come in contact with. 

Furniture and other wooden objects begin to chip, peel and swell.

In order to mitigate the damage to furniture and other wood surfaces, steps should be taken to remove the items and begin drying them out as soon as possible. 

In most instances, you’ll want to proceed cautiously, allowing the items to air dry to prevent the damage from getting any worse.

If the damage is too severe, items may not be salvageable.

Water Damage Within Days

By far the biggest risk related to water damage is the growth and spread of mold and fungi.

Mold requires moisture to grow, so as soon as surfaces become wet they provide the perfect environment for mold. 

Mold will begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure occurs and once it begins to grow it can spread rapidly and may cause health effects.

After flooding occurs, you’ll need to confirm that conditions are safe in order to begin cleanup, which includes checking for signs of mold growth.

The EPA has guidelines to follow in order to determine the safety of any structure for flood cleanup. 

Other damage that can occur within days of flooding includes severe warping and cupping of wood floors, blistering of paint and peeling of wallpaper as adhesives start to release.

Wood structural beams and other underlying parts of your home may also begin to swell, warp and split.

Water Damage Within Weeks

The damage caused by flooding can take as long as several weeks to become apparent and may be severe if immediate steps are not taken to thoroughly dry and clean the affected area.

To prevent spread, you should have your home’s HVAC system thoroughly checked and treated as this is the primary way that mold can infect an entire house.

Structural beams, floors, and ceilings may be drastically affected, making the home unsafe for occupancy.  

The Red Cross recommends carefully checking your home for any structural damage after a flood before you begin the cleanup.  

Trust The Pros To Make Repairs

Water damage can be devastating and it can continue to be a problem long after the immediate emergency is resolved.

To protect your home and family against the lingering effects of water damage, you need to ensure that the affected area is completely dried and cleaned.

While you may be able to handle some of this process yourself, you don’t want to take risks and that’s why it’s important to hire water mitigation professionals to ensure that the job is done right.

At SERVPRO, we’re prepared to respond immediately and we have the expertise and equipment necessary to get the job done right every time.

We’ll remove any badly damaged items and make structural repairs to ensure that your home is safe.

As devastating as flooding can be, not all water damage is immediately apparent.

To keep your home safe, stay one step ahead of water damage by trusting cleanup and restoration to the professionals.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Space Heaters are the Second-Leading Cause of Home Fires

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Space Heaters are the Second-Leading Cause of Home Fires

Spring temperatures are cool at night, and many people use space heaters to reduce heating costs and to heat rooms with inadequate heat distribution. Although space heaters are commonly used for this purpose, a report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) identifies space heaters as being responsible for 53 percent of U.S. home fires, and the leading cause of home fire deaths. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester offers residents these suggestions from the NFPA on how to use electric space heaters safely:

• Keep children and pets away from space heaters at all times
• Never leaved a space heater unattended
• Turn your space heater off before going to bed
• Place space heaters at a minimum of three feet away from combustible materials
• Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are operating
• Make sure the electrical cords are not damaged and avoid the use of extension cords   

We Are Fire Damage Specialists

When a fire causes damage to your home or business, we want to help. We offer many services to clean and restore furniture, documents, and keepsakes and can store items while repairs are underway.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants residents and business owners to know that we have the training and state-of-the-art equipment to respond to any fire damage emergency. We will clean and restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO is Here to Help with Fire Damage

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

Here to Help®

Did you know that residential fires account 27 percent of reported fires and 70 percent of all fire injuries? According to the National Fire Protection Association, the top causes of residential fires in the home are cooking, heating, electrical, smoking, and candles. They suggest that residents should routinely check for hidden electrical hazards like damaged cords, discolored or warm wall outlets, frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers. Any of these issues should be dealt with by a qualified electrician.

When Fires Happen, We Respond

No matter how vigilant we are regarding home fire safety, fires can still happen. When a fire causes damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Here to Help.® Fire, smoke, and water damage from firefighting efforts can cause damage to your home that can be costly if not repaired quickly. Fortunately, our team of professionals have the specialized training and state-of-the-art equipment to restore your home to pre-fire condition. We can also help with the insurance paperwork and process.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is ready to respond to any residential or commercial fire damage emergency.  From your initial call we can be onsite within four hours, and we are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We will clean and restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated

Biohazard Cleanup

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

It’s hard to imagine anything worse than a sewage backup in your basement

Whether you have a finished or unfinished basement, a sewage backup can cause a tremendous amount of damage and, let’s face it, it’s just disgusting.

While it can be distressing there is no cause for panic; it is possible to get the backup cleaned up and return your home to its previous condition.

Before you begin to tackle clean up it’s important to remember that a sewage backup is far different from any other kind of flooding.

That’s because raw sewage contains bacteria, fungi, parasites, and other contaminants so it’s important to take certain safety measures before you attempt to clean up. 

First Take Safety Precautions

Most utilities enter your home through the basement, so before you even think of handling fluids that have gathered there you need to make sure that the utilities are shut off. 

If your electric box is above the waterline, you can safely shut off the power yourself, otherwise, you should call the electric company and let them do it, but do not try to start cleanup until the power is off.

You’ll also want to ensure that there is no gas leak in the basement. It may be difficult with the presence of sewage but try and smell for a gas leak.

If you notice any signs of a gas or electric problem, including sparks, smoke or buzzing, call your utility company immediately and do not enter the basement.

Once you have ensured that the basement is safe to enter, you’ll want to shut off the main water valve to prevent any further water build-up.

Also, make sure that the plumbing in your house is not used while you are cleaning the basement as using sinks or flushing toilets could make the backup worse.

Next Prepare To Clean

Now that you’ve secured the area you need to take steps to prepare yourself for the cleanup job.

Because raw sewage is full of contaminants, you should be sure to wear protective clothing while handling it, including goggles, a ventilator, a face mask, rubber gloves, and rubber boots. 

Also, wear long pants and a long sleeve shirt and cover any cuts or open wounds with a waterproof bandage to help prevent infection.

Of course, contaminants aren’t the only nasty issue you’ll have to deal with during cleanup.

The smell of raw sewage can be overpowering so you need to ensure that the basement is well ventilated so that you aren’t overcome by the fumes.

Open windows or vents where possible and position fans at the top of the stairs to draw in the fresh air and don’t forget to take regular breaks to avoid getting sick from the smell.

Begin Cleanup

The first step of cleanup should be removing the backed up fluids and solids, which can be done with either a pump, a Shop Vac or a simple mop and bucket depending on the severity of the backup.

Many home improvement stores rent pumps and heavy-duty Shop Vacs for this purpose.

Whether you use a pump or a Shop-Vac, make sure you choose one with a wide enough hose so that it will work effectively without becoming clogged. 

With a pump, direct the hose out of the basement and make sure it is discharging the sewage outside and away from the foundation of your house.

A Shop Vac can also be very effective, just make sure you choose one with a large tank capacity and do not empty it into any sinks while the cleanup is in progress.

Shop Vacs are particularly useful for getting into tight spaces and corners so you can ensure that every inch of the basement is clean.

A mop and bucket can be equally effective, though it is more labor-intensive. Use a small shovel to clean up solid waste or apply warm water to dissolve solids, then soak up the liquid sewage with the mop and wring it out in the bucket.

Empty solid waste into heavy-duty garbage bags and be careful not to overfill them.

Any wood or fabric items that have become soaked will most likely need to be disposed of as wood, fabric, and particleboard will soak up the liquid, allowing it to seep in deeper and affect the structure itself.

Carpeting and carpet padding will also have to be ripped up and disposed of, using heavy-duty garbage bags to prevent leaks.

Wash and Disinfect

Once the sewage has been removed you can start the two-step process of washing and disinfecting. Use warm water and a mild detergent to wipe down all items and surfaces and then disinfect with a combination of one gallon of water and 1 ¼ cups of bleach.

Mix up a new batch of disinfectant every 20 to 30 minutes to make sure it remains effective.

Wipe down all large items with a rag and use a spray bottle on flat surfaces, then allow to air dry.

Don’t Forget Your Insurance

While most sewage backups may not be covered by a standard homeowner’s policy, it’s still a good idea to thoroughly document the damage before you start cleanup so that you have the necessary proof if you decide to file a claim.

You can check with your insurance agent to determine exactly what is covered in your particular policy.

Don’t Hesitate To Call In The Professionals

Though you may feel perfectly capable of handling a minor sewage backup in your basement, it’s always a good idea to call a professional water mitigation company to ensure that the job is done right.

Have more questions?

You don’t want to take any chances with the health and safety of your family, and professionals like SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester are equipped to handle any emergency quickly and expertly so that you can breathe easier.

Why Rely On The Professionals?

Professional water mitigation companies like SERVPRO have the training and equipment to handle even the worst sewage backup.

We are ready to respond 24 hours a day and will arrive at your home as quickly as possible to begin the cleanup process.

We’ll employ professional-grade pumps, drying systems and sewage containment equipment to ensure that the backup is cleaned thoroughly and safely.

There’s more to water mitigation than just cleaning up the spill, however, and we’re prepared to handle that too.

We can also clean air ducts and provide thorough mold remediation to prevent any further mold growth.

We’ll help to preserve your belongings and restore your home to its previous condition and we’ll even help you to work with your insurance company to facilitate any potential claims.

When Clean Up Is Done

Once the backup has been thoroughly cleaned up, either by yourself or a professional water mitigation company, you can then safely address the underlying cause to prevent any future backups.

Remember, cleaning up a sewage backup in your basement should be handled quickly and carefully to avoid endangering your family.

That’s why your best option is to rely on the services of a professional water mitigation company like SERVPRO.

We’ll arrive faster to any disaster and treat your home as if it were our own.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester are Specialists in Biological Cleaning

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

It has never been more critical to remain vigilant about the routine cleaning of high-touch surfaces in our homes and businesses. This is especially true for essential businesses and services that are required to remain open to keep Pennsylvania running during this global pandemic. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants commercial businesses to know that we are specialists in biological cleaning with years of experience. We follow the guidelines issued by the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local authorities. The CDC recommends that high-touch surfaces be routinely cleaned and disinfected. High-touch surfaces include tables, counters, light switches, handles, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, and:

• 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 Us Today for a Proactive Cleaning

We use EPA-approved, hospital-grade products and are specialty trained to deal with biological pathogens. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is ready to respond to any specialty cleaning and disinfecting job.  We are on call and available to respond 24 hours a day and can be onsite within four hours of your first call. Let us clean and restore your commercial business “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 610-506-8919.

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Biohazard Cleanup

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

The Merriam-Webster dictionary definition of “biohazard” as ‘an agent or condition that is a hazard to humans or the environments.’ Some examples of biohazards include human blood, animal waste, sewage, and medical waste such as sharps or needles. Biohazard spills are dangerous and should be cleaned by qualified professionals. Specialized training and experience are required for the decontamination of your home or business.  Biohazards may occur due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, or hoarding.  SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants residents and commercial businesses to know that we are prepared to safely clean and restore many forms of biohazard damage. Here are some examples of the kinds of biohazards we provide cleanup and recovery services for:

• Sewage backups
• Crime scene residues
• Accidents
• Homicide cleanups
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup
• Sharps cleanup
• Urban camp cleanup

Sewage backups are one of the most common biohazard scenarios we respond to. We remove the sewage, contaminates and moisture and properly clean, disinfect and deodorize the area. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester are on call and available to respond to your biohazard emergency 24 hours a day and can be onsite within four hours of your first call. We’ll take care of your biohazard damage “Like it never even happened.” Call Danielle today at 610-506-8919.

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

We Restore Your Keepsakes

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

The firefighters have just left you are standing in the midst of your home that has been ravaged by fire. Not only is there damage to your home, but there is also damage to your furniture and other home contents caused by soot, smoke, ash and water used by the firefighters to put out the flames. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants home and business owners to know that we provide content restoration services and approach every fire damage emergency with a “restore” versus “replace” mentality to help you save money and to help you preserve as many of your precious and irreplaceable family heirlooms that we can. We can’t always clean and restore all of your belongings back to pre-fire condition, but we can clean and restore many of your damaged contents using techniques like:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.
   

We are on call to respond to any fire damage emergency 24 hours a day. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester provides quality contents restoration services to business owners and residents. Call Danielle today at 610-506-8919.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester uses Advanced Technology to Restore Damage

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester uses advanced technology and techniques to safely clean and restore property damage? New developments and advancements allow us to restore damage to your business or home back to preloss condition more efficiently. Our use of technological advances to clean and restore a property quickly and effectively make us a premier cleaning and restoration company.  We also use specialized equipment such as:

• Moisture detection equipment: infrared cameras to identify water location
• Moisture measurement equipment: hygrometers and other meters are used to determine the extent of moisture saturation
• Water extraction equipment: submersible and gas-powered pumps and truck-mounted and portable extraction units
• Drying equipment: high-speed air movers and industrial grade dehumidifiers to pull moisture form the air
• Odor removal and deodorization: air scrubbers and thermal foggers and deodorization agents
• Sanitizing agent, germicides, and anti-microbial treatments: deodorization products to control odors form excessive moisture and disinfection products to stop the growth of bacterial and other harmful microorganisms

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester uses these advanced technologies to safely and efficiently clean and restore property damage to your home or business.  We are available 24 hours a day to respond to any size emergency. We’ll take care of your property damage “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Why SERVPRO is the Top Cleaning & Restoration Company

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Did you know that SERVPRO technicians undergo a rigorous training and certification process? SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants commercial businesses and homeowners to know that our technicians have the training and experience to respond to property damage emergencies. Initial, 15 day hands-on and ongoing training is provided at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility on the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

In addition, employees undergo further training at their SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester are awarded certification after the successful completion of course materials and pass an examination after training on topics such as crew training, fire restoration, water restoration and carpet and upholstery cleaning. Web-based training is ongoing and keeps our technicians up to speed on industry standards.

We are proud to offer continuing education credit and non-credit classes to insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals, and Southern Delaware County & West Chester staff including:

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

If you experience a property damage emergency to your home or business, SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to help. Our team of highly trained professionals are on call 24 hours to respond to any size emergency. Call us today at 610-506-8919. We’ll take care of your property damage  “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Here to Help with Fire Damage

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

According the National Fire Protection Agency, cooking fires have remained the major cause of fires in homes and commercial businesses in the U.S. since 2013. Fires can break out at any time. Lightning, faulty wiring, defective kitchen or other household appliances are just some of the other ways fire can damage your home or business. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants businesses and homeowners to know that we are equipped to respond to any size fire damage emergency and have the specialty equipment and training required to clean and restore fire damage to preloss condition. Here are some fire prevention safety tips from the American Red Cross:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. 
• Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries
• Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year
• If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone

If you experience fire damage to your home or business SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to help. Our team of highly trained professionals are on call 24 hours. Call us today at 484-841-6669. We’ll take care of your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Water Damage

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

A broken valve on a pipe can release a torrent of water causing major damage to your business before you know it. It is imperative that water damage be mitigated as soon as possible to prevent costly structural building repairs. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can respond to any disaster within 24-hours, seven days a week and we want to help. We will begin the cleanup and restoration process immediately to get your business back to normal as quickly as possible. Our six-step process for water cleanup and restoration includes:

• Step 1: Emergency Contact
• Step 2: Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
• Step 3: Water Removal
• Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification
• Step 5: Cleaning & Sanitizing
• Step 6: Restoration

Depending on the amount and type of water damage, we may provide some of these services:

• Caring For Your Belongings
• Storm Damage
• Mold Remediation
• Sewage Cleanup
• Building Services
• Commercial Water Damage

Our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damage for residents and business owners. Call us today at 610-506-8919 to find out about our water cleanup and restoration services. We hope you never have water damage to your home or business but if you do, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to help. We use advanced technology and techniques and we are available 24 hours a day. We’ll take care of your damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

IICRC Certified Firm

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and SERVPRO of West Chester is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops the Standards for The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County / West Chester

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and SERVPRO of West Chester 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.

SERVPRO can Get Any Job Done!

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Did you know that SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can respond to any disaster, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week? You never know when you may be faced with the aftermath of a disaster, but SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants home and business owners to know that we are on hand and ready to respond to your emergency. Commercial business owners know that the longer it takes to get back to business, the more revenue is lost. Here are some of the many services we offer:

• Water damage cleanup and restoration
• Mold remediation and mitigation services
• Sewage cleanup
• Storm damage
• Building services
• Commercial water damage cleanup and restoration
• Fire damage cleanup and restoration
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Odor removal
• Biohazard removal
• Disaster Recovery Team

If you find yourself dealing with damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to help. We use advanced technology and techniques and we are available 24 hours a day. Our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damage for residents and business owners. Call us today at 610-506-8919 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Together We Get it Done

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Together we get it done.

Life is full of mishaps and otherwise unwanted stress creators such as storms. Did you know that wind can reach speeds of up to 60 mph in severe cases?  This kind of wind in your Southern Delaware County & West Chester home or business can cause several different kinds of damage, as well as leave areas of the structure vulnerable to rain and other water crisis such as broken pipes.  SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can work together with you to lower chances for incurring injury and/or cost due to storm damage.

Your part.

Preparedness is a necessary tool in your efforts to protect your home in Southern Delaware County & West Chester.

It’s your house; so not only do you have a vested interest in lowering risks to your home and family; but that same preparedness creates a more stress-free environment. 

Be prepared for the worst when times are the best. Don’t wait until the wind is moving at speeds of forty mph outside before you start making calls and buying batteries. Do these things early on when there are no clouds in the sky.

Our part.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester promises to answer when you call. We promise that the person fielding your call will understand not only the proper responses to your cleanup and restoration questions but they will understand your vulnerable and stressful position as the owner/insurance adjuster.  We will use that understanding to make you as comfortable with what’s happening as possible. We will send the correct people, and the proper equipment to meet whatever needs have been created by the unfortunate event(s).

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

SERVPRO can Handle Puffback!

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Most of us have never heard of a puff back, unless you or someone you know has had this disaster occur in your home or business. A puffback occurs when an oil burner backfires and sends oily soot throughout your home or business.  This anomaly can happen if a boiler is older, not well-maintained, or just malfunctions for technical reasons. 

A puffback can occur all at once, covering every surface in a structure with soot particulate.  Or, it might be gradual and not result in soot on every surface in a home or business, only a room or two.  This is not a healthy situation and you should not touch or breathe the particulate that – like bus and other exhaust – can be carcinogenic for us, especially for our children, elderly relatives and pets.

You’ll know if you’ve had a puffback!  It is usually quite easy to tell.  Soot covers all areas of the home or business & may range from light to very heavy particulate in every nook and cranny. In some cases, it is a fine layer that just appears to be regular dust.  However, this "dust" can “re-appear” hours after you clean, and there’s usually a strong odor of oil in affected rooms.  At SERVPRO of West Chester & Southern Delaware County, we have certified technicians who can make it, "Like it never even happened."

You can prevent puffbacks in one easy way:  Your best precaution against a puffback is to have your oil burner inspected annually, so that it’s in good repair.  This is no guarantee against having a puff back, but it greatly reduces your risk.   Keep debris, animal hair or anything that could interfere with proper functioning away from your oil burner.

What to avoid and tips for not making a bad puffback worse:  Do not attempt to wash wallpapered or flat painted walls, clean carpets or upholstered furniture. Avoid touching things.  

What you should do first: 

    •    Notify your insurance agent or company immediately and tell them that you have your local SERVPRO restoration company on the way.

    •    Most insurance companies know SERVPROs and our certified disaster recovery companies, so schedule a free walkthrough with Danielle Mortimer at (610) 506-8919 and we'll work with the insurance adjusters and get them the pictures, data and measurements needed.

    •    Next, most home and business owners policies encourage you to clean or hire a qualified disaster response company right away, to help you clean your property, return to the home and get your life back quickly; talk to your local agent about who to call.  A puffback is soot and it is particulate and can be carcinogenic if a lot is inhaled.  You will have soot on every surface in your affected area.

    •    Have a qualified team begin cleaning all affected areas as soon as possible, to prevent more damage.

    •    Soot travels & will re-appear if it’s not completely removed.

Tips on what NOT to do:

    •    Do not attempt to wash wallpapered or flat-painted walls. (incorrect cleaning cab compound the soot residue problem)

    •    Do not try to clean carpets and upholstered furniture. Avoid touching things. (Soot on your hands can permeate upholstery, walls and woodwork causing further damage.)

    •    Try not to walk on flooring in affected area because you will grind in soot and make it harder to remove.

    •    Do not use wet cleansers on anything, especially fabrics or porous materials!

Plan to call in professionals for help, whether it's our SERVPRO or another restoration team that has background checked, certified staff to clean up, so you can quickly get your life back to normal!

 #heretohelp

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Biohazard Cleanups

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

When faced with the danger of biohazard cleanup and restoration, did you know that qualified professionals should be called? SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants the business and homeowners to know that our highly trained specialists are on hand to take care of your emergency cleanup and restoration needs. Our ability to immediately respond to your emergency helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. We can also help you manage the insurance paperwork and process. Here are some of the residential and commercial biohazard services  SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester provide:

• Crime Scene Cleanups
• Suicide
• Homicide Cleanups
• Blood Cleanup
• Accident Cleanup
• Hoarding Scenes
• Animal Waste/Remains
• Chemical Spills
• Tear Gas Cleanup

If you find yourself dealing with the aftermath of a biohazard disaster, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to help. No matter what your emergency may be, we will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect. We are available 24 hours a day and our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damage caused by biohazard for Southern Delaware County & West Chester residents and business owners. Call us today at 610-506-8919 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Here to Help!

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

From disaster…

Time and again the professionals at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester have been on the front lines in post-catastrophe situations with their service being invaluable to adjusters and homeowners alike. From the mold created by catastrophic water leaks to soot and smoke removal after a house fire, we bring stability and efficiency to the job that only professionals can bring.

…to normal.

At the end of the day, you just want to turn the key, walk in the door, sit your things down, and sink into a soft chair to relax. You’ve just endured the trauma of some fire, water, or mold disaster and clean up and you don’t want to continue to be in the middle of a disaster area. We will strive to make your situation as painless as possible and when the job is complete  and you return to your normal way of living, it will have been our pleasure to have helped make it “Like it never even happened.” So, when or if you’re faced with any of the previously described problems, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester encourages you to call 610-506-8919  so we can help you remediate the damage.

Call Danielle for all your restoration needs 610-506-8919.

Always Here to Help

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

1700+ reasons why…

In the beginning, there was a painting business in California and from that SERVPRO was born. There are now currently over 1700 stores from our Atlantic Seaboard to our Pacific Frontier. Over seventeen hundred franchises tell the tale. We have grown phenomenally and are continuing to grow. Your business in Southern Delaware County & West Chester has been the cornerstone of that growth and we recognize that. Because of you, we strive to always put our best foot forward. Whether bagging up hazardous waste or speaking with insurance adjusters, our efforts are and always will be to give you our best.

Over five decades…

Without experience, the best intentions are fruitless. We, here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester have experience. In fact, we’ve got over five decades of professional cleaning and restoration know-how scattered across the country. The staff at our franchisees are well trained and professional when performing their duties and/or assessing your situation. If and when you are facing the discomfort of a high-stress situation; find us online or call us at (610) 506-8919 and we will put those years of experience to work for you.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Air Purifiers

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester, we care about our communities health and safety. Are you one of the millions who suffer from asthma or allergies everyday? Do you own an air purifier? Do you think about the air quality of your home?

Maybe it's time to invest in an air purifier for yourself. You can buy one these days for under $80, the cost of a monthly cell phone service bill.

Most people who buy air purifiers do so in hopes of easing asthma, allergies or even just dust in their homes. The very best portable air purifiers are very effective at cleaning the air, mold spores, smoke, dust, and pollen at their highest and lowest speed.

Mold spores range from 1-30 microns, and air purifiers remove mold as small as .003 microns. UV light is helpful but is not required for removing spores. Mold spores die inside the HEPA filter due to the fact that it's a dry sterile environment. A quality HEPA air purifier removes airborne mold spores and keeps the air quality of your home at par.

If your kids or loved ones constantly suffer from asthma and allergies, test out a good quality air purifier to see if you notice a difference. You'll be glad you did.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Why SERVPRO

1/31/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester, we have an amazing staff who work hard for you every day. From our owners, who guide us all with years of experience, to our office staff, who work diligently with your local and national insurance agents, to our production team, who are always on standby for you to get the job done ASAP, we strive to provide top notch customer service.

If you are looking for a local company to provide professional and timely services, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is the place, and we won't let you down. Give us a call today and schedule a free estimate, and our team will be out to assist you with any and all restoration or mitigation needs you may have.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

24 Hour Water Damage Restoration

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester 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 - 610-506-8919

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 Southern Delaware County & West Chester 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 of Southern Delaware County & West Chester

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester 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.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Why are SERVPRO Trucks Green?

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

You've most likely seen the restoration crews of SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester out and about in your neighborhoods helping to recover disasters from fire, water and mold loss.  It’s hard to miss our green service vehicles as they drive through your local community.  But where did the green color come from?

In the early 1970s, the founders of SERVPRO® used a color chip paint sample chart to identify the most eye-catching color.  It was a highly technical process.  The founders showed the chart to as many people as they could and asked, “Which color on this chart would be impossible to miss?”  By a wide margin, the color most identified was 1970 rally green, a color used on Porsche 911 automobiles.

 Now used on entire fleets of vehicles in every SERVPRO franchise across the nation from production vans to disaster recovery storm trailers, our vehicles are prepared for any size disaster. 

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

When Disaster Strikes

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes…

For many, your home in Southern Delaware County & West Chester represents a lifetime of hard work and a place where roots are important. It is where family gathers, and where your most endearing and important memories are made. When a disaster strikes; whether it be fire, storm, mold, or other water damage/flooding, it will likely be one of the most traumatic experiences of your life.

When these things happen and stress is high, call us. Our professionalism and rapid response time, as well as our nonintrusive cleanup and exit should do much to ease the burden you are bearing. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester really does want to help you carry the load.

…we’ll be there to ease your burden.

Sharing a load to SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester means our work makes your situation more bearable. Twenty-four hours a day/seven days a week we are on call with equipment that is up-to-date, and people who are professional and efficient. Our goal is to keep you moving forward with as little worry as possible in Southern Delaware County & West Chester.

For all your restoration needs, call Danielle 610-506-8919

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester for Fire Damage

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Call us for any fire damage emergency. Our fire damage professionals are ready 24/7 to respond to your call. Our swift response will limit further damage and reduce your restoration costs.

Our team will start the restoration process right away. Our restoration process includes 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, and restoration.

We're certified by the IICRC in fire restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester has the training and specialized equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Why SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Why SERVPRO?

Ted Isaacson opened the first SERVPRO® in 1967 in Sacramento, California selling his first Franchise in 1969.  In 1988 the SERVPRO headquarters moved to Gallatin, Tennessee. SERVPRO now has 1700+ Franchises in the United States and Canada. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester specialize in cleanup and restoration services. We can make your fire, smoke, water, or mold damage “Like it never even happened.” 

What does SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester do?

SERVPRO provides:

• Residential & commercial cleanup of: water/ flood damage, fire damage, and storm damage
• Mold remediation
• Restoration

SERVPRO performs these specialties, including:

• Water Restoration
• Fire Restoration
• Mold Removal
• Biohazard
• Sewage
• Drapes and Blinds
• Odor Removal
• Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup
• Vandalism and Graffiti
• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Ceilings, Floors, and Walls
• Carpet and Upholstery

For all your restoration needs, call Danielle 610-506-8919

Choosing the Best Mold Mitigation Company

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Mold mitigation can be a real concern whenever water damage occurs. 

Mold forms and spreads within 48 hours after water damage and the more it spreads, the more of a hazard it becomes.

It can cause serious health effects, especially for those with respiratory conditions like asthma. 

If you suspect a mold infestation in your home or business, the sooner you can do something about it, the better.

When water damage occurs, it can often be a real cause for alarm but you needn’t worry provided you choose the right mold mitigation company to help solve your problem. 

It might not seem like much of an issue but surprisingly, some customers can take as much as a week or even a few weeks to shop around and find a mold remediation company. 

Unfortunately, that time can allow mold to spread even further and become more of a danger.

If you’re experiencing a mold issue, you want to move quickly and begin mold mitigation as fast as possible

You’ll want a mold remediation company that responds within those critical first 24-48 hours and offers a full range of services dedicated to restoring your home and belongings to their pre-damage state as quickly and thoroughly as possible.

Mold can be a challenging problem but choosing a mold mitigation company shouldn’t be

• You need a company with the proper training that is ready to respond quickly and put the top of the line equipment and techniques to use to address the problem thoroughly.
  
  
• Look for a company with the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). 
  This training will ensure that they are fully equipped to handle any residential or commercial mold infestation and provide complete mold mitigation services.
  
  
• That begins with responding as quickly as possible after your initial call. 
  A representative should instantly determine what equipment, resources and personnel will be needed to address your problem and get a team to your property within 24 hours.
  
  
• Once they arrive, the team should perform a thorough inspection and assess the extent of your mold mitigation needs. 
  
  
• Then they can begin taking steps to contain the spread of mold, including using negative air chambers and negative air pressure.

In order to ensure that the mold is stopped in its tracks, it’s necessary to tackle more than the visible signs of mold

Microscopic mold spores in the air are what spread mold throughout a home, so you’ll want a mold remediation company that uses specialized filtration equipment to capture those spores and powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA filters to prevent them from spreading.

Since mold can spread quickly in porous materials such as drywall and carpeting, any thorough mold mitigation should include removing and replacing those materials as well as using antimicrobial and anti-fungal products on materials that can’t be removed or replaced. 

Mold can affect more than your home itself, so you’ll want a company that does everything they can to help preserve family photos, documents, and other precious items.

When mold rears its ugly head, you don’t want to wait too long to act.  

Be an informed homeowner and you’ll be prepared to make the right choice for your mold mitigation needs  

In Southern Delaware County & West Chester, that choice is easy with SERVPRO. 

We offer full mold mitigation and remediation services so that you can have real peace of mind. We’re guaranteed to get there faster to any disaster and use our expertise to make your mold problem a thing of the past.

If you are experiencing mold, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester.

610-506-8919

Winter Weather

12/27/2020 (Permalink)

Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not ready for it. From heavy rain and freezing temperatures, to damaging winds, sleet, or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather.

To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.

• Check your home or business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
• Ask SERVPRO of West Chester about completing an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no-cost assessment to your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Winter Storms

12/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Chester has these tips to help prepare for a winter storm.

Winter Storms can bring high winds, snow, and ice. A winter storm can knock out power, water, and communication. 

SERVPRO of West Chester wants you to be prepared. Winter storms can last anywhere from a few hours to several days.

You can’t prevent a winter storm, but you can minimize storm damage.

• Prepare by gathering emergency supplies. Supplies include warm clothes, extra blankets, flashlights, medicines, and food. Gather any items you will need if you lose power or communication
• Develop a communication plan. Have phone numbers written down in case you cannot use your mobile phone
• Know the winter storm terms. The National Weather Service (NWS) will report a(n):
• ADVISORY when they expect that weather conditions might be hazardous. Be cautious, and the conditions should not be life-threatening 
• WATCH when they predict heavy snow or ice, but cannot yet show when or which areas will be hit. NWS issues a WATCH 12 to 26 hours ahead of the predicted storm 
• WARNING when they expect 4 or more inches of snow or sleet within 12 hours or they expect ¼ inch or more of ice. Keep warm and dry. Minimize driving. Stay indoors
• Tell your local electric company if someone in your home needs power for medical devices. They will make your home a priority
• Install battery-powered or battery back-up carbon monoxide detectors.

Remember, prevention is the best solution to water damage, but if disaster strikes, SERVPRO is Here to Help.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Winter Storms

12/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Chester has these tips to help prepare for a winter storm.

Winter Storms can bring high winds, snow, and ice. A winter storm can knock out power, water, and communication. 

SERVPRO of West Chester wants you to be prepared. Winter storms can last anywhere from a few hours to several days.

You can’t prevent a winter storm, but you can minimize storm damage.

• Prepare by gathering emergency supplies. Supplies include warm clothes, extra blankets, flashlights, medicines, and food. Gather any items you will need if you lose power or communication
• Develop a communication plan. Have phone numbers written down in case you cannot use your mobile phone
• Know the winter storm terms. The National Weather Service (NWS) will report a(n):
• ADVISORY when they expect that weather conditions might be hazardous. Be cautious, and the conditions should not be life-threatening 
• WATCH when they predict heavy snow or ice, but cannot yet show when or which areas will be hit. NWS issues a WATCH 12 to 26 hours ahead of the predicted storm 
• WARNING when they expect 4 or more inches of snow or sleet within 12 hours or they expect ¼ inch or more of ice. Keep warm and dry. Minimize driving. Stay indoors
• Tell your local electric company if someone in your home needs power for medical devices. They will make your home a priority
• Install battery-powered or battery back-up carbon monoxide detectors.

Remember, prevention is the best solution to water damage, but if disaster strikes, SERVPRO is Here to Help.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Winter Fire Awareness

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Heating, holiday decorations, winter storms and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months.

Heating

Heating is the second leading cause of U.S. home fires, deaths and injuries. December, January and February are the peak months for heating fires. Space heaters are the type of equipment most often involved in home heating equipment fires, figuring in two of every five fires (40%).

Carbon Monoxide

Often called the invisible killer, carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, propane, etc. do not burn completely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of CO. Carbon monoxide incidents are more common during the winter months, and in residential properties.

Winter storms

Most of the U.S. is at risk for winter storms, which can cause dangerous and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Blinding wind-driven snow, extreme cold, icy road conditions, downed trees and power lines can all wreak havoc on our daily schedules. Home fires occur more in the winter than in any other season, and heating equipment is involved in one of every six reported home fires, and one in every five home fire deaths.

Generators

Portable generators are useful during power outages; however, many homeowners are unaware that the improper use of portable generators can be risky. The most common dangers associated with portable generators are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, electrical shock or electrocution, and fire hazards. According to a 2013 Consumer Product Safety Commission report, half of the generator-related deaths happened in the four coldest months of the year, November through February, and portable generators were involved in the majority of carbon monoxide deaths involving engine-driven tools. 

Candles

December is the peak time of year for home candle fires; the top three days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve. Each year between 2012 and 2016, an average of 8,200 home candle fires were reported each year.

Electrical

Electrical home fires are a leading cause of home fires in the U.S. Roughly half of all home electrical fires involved electrical distribution or lighting equipment, while nearly another half involved other known types of equipment like washer or dryer fans, and portable or stationary space heaters.

As you stay cozy and warm this winter season, be fire smart.

If you experience any fire, water, or mold damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919.

What is an Ice Dam?

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas.

Moisture entering the home from ice dams can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. These can cause respiratory problems.

• Prevent the growth of mold and mildew by immediately drying out portions of the house that are wet or damp.
• Take immediate action to get rid of the water source, clean the home environment and maintain its air quality.

Heat loss from a house, snow cover and outside temperatures interact to form ice dams. For ice dams to form there must be snow on the roof and, at the same time, higher portions of the roof's outside surface must be above 32 degrees F (freezing) while lower surfaces are below 32 degrees. These are average temperatures over sustained periods of time. For a portion of the roof to be below freezing, outside temperatures must also be below freezing.

The snow on a roof surface that is above freezing will melt. As water flows down the roof it reaches the portion of the roof that is below 32F and freezes. This causes the ice dam.

The dam grows as it is fed by the melting snow above it, but it will limit itself to the portions of the roof that average below 32F. So the water above backs up behind the ice dam and remains a liquid. This water finds cracks and openings in the exterior roof covering and flows into the attic space. From the attic it could flow into exterior walls or through the ceiling insulation and stain the ceiling finish.

If you experience any fire, water, or mold damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919.

Cleaning Products - Why SERVPRO of West Chester Should Take Care of Your Property

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

A few of our cleaning products.

As your local mitigation, remediation and restoration company, SERVPRO® of West Chester carries a variety of professional cleaning products. We do not use the same cleaners that you can purchase in a store. SERVPRO® Industries have scientists on staff that formulate products that are designed exclusively for our franchise. You can be assured that the most effective products are being used to take care of your loss.

Our products are used to decontaminate, deodorize, clean leather & wood, general cleaning and much more. Each of our products are labeled and specify proper cleaning use. As our customers, for your knowledge and comfort, our technicians carry the Safety Data Sheets per product.

We ensure thorough cleaning is maintained throughout each job because we think of your property as our own.

SERVPRO® of West Chester is available 24/7/365. We are a highly trained water, fire, mold and biohazard restoration company with many services not typically covered by other restoration companies.

Our SERVPRO Professionals are highly trained in property mitigation, remediation and restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, our Professionals are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. 

Call SERVPRO of West Chester today for your cleaning, mitigation, and remediation needs. 610-506-8919

Holiday Coat Drive!

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Holiday Coat Drive!

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and West Chester First Annual Holiday Coat Drive

Give back this holiday season!

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is accepting new and gently used winter coats for children and adults. All coats will be donated to various programs throughout Delaware County & Chester County. Coats can be dropped off at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester. Please make sure coats are bagged at the time of drop off. Thank you for giving back to your community!

For more information, contact: Danielle Mortimer at:  

610-506-8919 or danielle@SERVPRO365.com

Coat donations are accepted from November 27th to December 27th

Coat donations can be dropped off at: 35 Lacrue Avenue #5, Glen Mills, PA 19342

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and West Chester is always #heretohelp and give back to our community. We appreciate any donations given to our coat drive. Tis' the season of giving, happy holidays!

If you experience fire, water, or mold damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919

Storms & Pets

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Severe storms can hit any place, even West Chester. If high winds, ice and snow, or heavy rains make evacuation necessary, SERVPRO^® of West Chester knows that most of us will not leave without our pets.  We can repair water damage and storm damage "Like it never even happened,"^® but people and pets are irreplaceable.

Preparation for West Chester Pets:

• Maintain current information on all tags
• Secure tags to collars
• Consider microchips for animals that cannot wear collars or that may lose them
• In case you get separated, have photos of yourself with each pet
• Identify shelters and motels that accept pets
• Have a secure leash/harness and carrier for each of your pets
• Keep copies of each Rx for the pet(s)

Emergency Kits for Pets:

• Rabies tags, copies of vaccination records
• Medical records for pets that require extra care
• At least a 3-day supply of water and food for each pet
• Animal first-aid kit
• Favorite toys and blankets
• Treats
• Medicines
• Extra litter and litter box
• Bags for waste

If storm damage does hit your home, remember that We are Here to Help.^® 

SERVPRO of West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Call Danielle at 610-506-8919

Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Storm

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Homeowners can take preventative measures to help reduce damage if or when a severe storm hits. Here are a few tips to help you prepare your home for a storm.

1. Clear limbs and trim trees - during a storm, dead tree limbs can get loose and cause damage to a home’s exterior or break a window
2. Secure fences - ensure that fences are properly secured to help prevent them from being lifted up and thrown against the house by heavy winds
3. Secure furniture - heavy winds can cause items like patio furniture and large toys to damage the exterior of your home.  You should also move anything in your yard that can become flying debris inside your house or garage
4. Protect your valuables - protect mementos in waterproof containers and/or take them with you if you should evacuate.  Make sure important documents, such as insurance policies, certificates, etc., are stored in a safe deposit or fire safe box.

If you experience storm damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help!

Frozen Pipes

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

With the cold weather right around the corner, it raises concern about pipes freezing in homes and businesses. When pipes freeze, it leaves a huge mess of water damage to your homes and businesses. That is when you call SERVPRO to help you clean up the mess and fix the areas that were damaged from the water. Here at SERVPRO, we make it our job to make sure that the customer is happy with the outcome of the job.

Here are a couple things that will help to prevent your pipes from freezing:

• Keep your home or apartment thermostat temperature set to at least 55 degrees.
• Do not block heat to areas of your residence that contain plumbing or water fixtures. Keep doors open to bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and cabinets that contain pipes, especially those located on the north side of the dwelling, to expose the plumbing to warmer air inside the house.
• Prevent drafts of cold winter air by keeping windows and storm windows closed. Repair cracks or holes around doors and windows to keep cold air from blowing in.
• Cover pipes in unheated areas with heat tape or pipe insulation. 

If you plan to be away from your residence for an extended period of time, ask someone to check your house or apartment periodically. Show them what to do if water pipes freeze and where to locate your water shut-off valve in case of an emergency

Call Danielle at 610-506-8919

Causes of Water Damage

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Water damage occurs when excess water begins to pool in areas where it shouldn’t. Many different factors can create this excess water and thereby contribute to water damage. When you are aware of the potential causes, you can take precautionary measures to help insure against a leak or flood. You will also be able to spot a problem as soon as it arises and nip it in the bud before it has a chance to cause any additional damage. The more quickly you notice the problem, the less work the water extraction and water damage restoration company will have to fix.

Causes of water damage include:

• Bursting or leaking pipes
• Issues with the plumbing system
• Buildup in areas prone to collecting water, such as crawl spaces, attics and basements
• Faulty or malfunctioning household appliances
• HVACs (Heating, ventilating and air conditioning units) issues
• Natural disasters and other weather-related water problems

If you are experiencing water damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919. SERVPRO of West Chester is here to help!

Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Storm

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Homeowners can take preventative measures to help reduce damage if or when a severe storm hits. Here are a few tips to help you prepare your home for a storm.

1. Clear limbs and trim trees - during a storm, dead tree limbs can get loose and cause damage to a home’s exterior or break a window
2. Secure fences - ensure that fences are properly secured to help prevent them from being lifted up and thrown against the house by heavy winds
3. Secure furniture - heavy winds can cause items like patio furniture and large toys to damage the exterior of your home.  You should also move anything in your yard that can become flying debris inside your house or garage
4. Protect your valuables - protect mementos in waterproof containers and/or take them with you if you should evacuate.  Make sure important documents, such as insurance policies, certificates, etc., are stored in a safe deposit or fire safe box.

If you experience storm damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919. SERVPRO of West Chester is here to help!

Hurricane Safety

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricane season starts June 1 and lasts until November 30.  A hurricane WATCH means that there's a POSSIBILITY that hurricane conditions could occur within 36 hours.  A hurricane WARNING means that sustained winds of at least 74 MPH are expected within 24 hours.

Before a hurricane

• Have a disaster plan
• Board up windows
• Bring in objects from outside that could blow away
• Know where all the evacuation routes are
• Prepare disaster supplies kits for your home and car

During a hurricane

• Stay away from low-lying and flood prone areas
• Always stay indoors.  Leave mobile homes and to a shelter

After a hurricane

• Stay indoors until it is safe to come out
• Do not attempt to drive in flooding water
• Stay away from standing water as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines

If you experience hurricane damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919

Classes of Water Damage

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Classes of water losses are determined by the rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected by water damage to your property. Determining the Class of Water is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to restore your business. There are four water damage classifications, they are as follows:

Class 1 - Slow Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect only part of a room or area, or losses with lower permeance/porosity materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, vinyl composition tile or VCT, concrete). Little or no wet carpet or cushion is present. Minimum moisture is absorbed by materials, releasing moisture slowly.

Class 2 - Fast Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect an entire room or carpet and cushion. Water has wicked up walls 12" - 24". There is moisture remaining in structural materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, concrete).

Class 3 - Fastest Evaporation Rate
Water may have come from overhead. Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushion and sub-floor in the entire area are saturated.

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations
These consist of wet materials with very low permanence/porosity (hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, stone, and crawlspace). Typically, there are deep pockets of saturation, which requires very low specific humidity.

If you experience water damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919

SERVPRO of West Chester is Here to Help with Storm Damage

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle at 610-506-8919

Many homeowners expect only the worst storms to do damage to their home. Even short storms can cause damage to a home when trees are victims of disease. Many diseases can create weak trees with dead limbs, and some diseases can affect the roots of the tree instead. A tree that looks healthy may not be in reality, and it can actually be a huge danger to your home or garage without you knowing until it is too late. If your home or garage, or any other outbuildings, have been damaged by tree limbs or trunks, it is good to know that we have the skills and equipment to restore your property to its preloss condition.

When damage happens during a storm or when storm-like conditions happen, repairs should be started and completed as soon as possible. This can substantially reduce the risks posed by the elements to the interior of your home. Repairs will also keep insects and other pests from getting a foothold in further deteriorating your home's exterior. Termites and other pests, some of which may have been the reason behind any diseased trees on your property, won't be able to infiltrate your home's exterior if repairs are made, and completed, in a timely manner.

Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Storm

Homeowners can take preventative measures to help reduce damage if or when a severe storm hits. Here are a few tips to help you prepare your home for a storm.

• Clear limbs and trim trees - during a storm, dead tree limbs can get loose and cause damage to a home’s exterior or break a window
• Secure fences - ensure that fences are properly secured to help prevent them from being lifted up and thrown against the house by heavy winds
• Secure furniture - heavy winds can cause items like patio furniture and large toys to damage the exterior of your home.  You should also move anything in your yard that can become flying debris inside your house or garage
• Protect your valuables - protect mementos in waterproof containers and/or take them with you if you should evacuate.  Make sure important documents, such as insurance policies, certificates, etc., are stored in a safe deposit or fire safe box.

If you experience storm damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919

What is a Hurricane?

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

A hurricane is a huge storm!  It can be up to 600 miles across and have strong winds spiraling at speeds of 75-200 MPH.  A hurricane usually lasts for over a week, moving 10-20 MPH over the ocean.  Hurricanes gather heat and energy through contact with warm ocean waters, and rotate counter-clockwise around an "eye" in the Northern hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern hemisphere.  The "eye" is the center of the storm and is the calmest part.  When a hurricane comes onto land, the heavy rain, strong winds, and large waves can damage buildings, trees, and cars.

Hurricanes only form over really warm ocean water of 80 degrees F or warmer.  The atmosphere must cool off very quickly the higher you go.  Also, the wind must be blowing in the same direction and at the same speed to force air upward from the ocean surface.  Winds flow outward above the storm allowing the air below to rise.

Hurricanes are separated into categories based on their intensity and wind speeds:

Category 1 - very dangerous winds will produce some damage - 74-95 MPH

Category 2 - extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage - 96-110 MPH

Category 3 - devastating damage will occur - 111-129 MPH

Category 4 - catastrophic damage will occur - 130-156 MPH

Category 5 - catastrophic damage will occur - winds greater than 157 MPH

Call SERVPRO of West Chester if you experience hurricane damage at 610-506-8919.

Do's and Don'ts of a House Fire

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

There are so many emotions and questions following a house fire that it is hard to know what you should and shouldn't do.  Here are a few basic tips to keep in mind.

Don’ts

• Do not enter your home until you've gotten permission that it is safe to do so
• Do not start or move your car if it has been damaged
• Do not try to clean any of the smoke or soot damage yourself

Do's

• Contact family members/loved ones to inform them of the fire
• Attend to frightened pets and ensure their safety and comfort
• Call all utility providers (electric, gas, water) to inform them of the fire
• Call homeowners insurance company to begin the claim process
• Find somewhere to stay. 

Most homeowner’s policies will have coverage, which will pay for the food, clothing, and shelter that you and your family may need for a specified period of time.

Call SERVPRO of West Chester if you experience fire damage at 610-506-8919

Who Names Hurricanes?

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

From 1950-1952, hurricanes of the North Atlantic Ocean were identified by the phonetic (A,B,C, etc.) alphabet.  In 1953, the US Weather Bureau switched to women's names.  The naming rights now go by the World Meteorological Organization, which uses different sets of names depending on the part of the world the storm is in.  Around the United States, only women's names were used until 1979.  It was then decided that they should alternate a list that included men's names as well.  There are 6 different name lists that alternate each year.  If a hurricane causes significant damage, its name will be retired and replaced with another. 

Here are the names that were used to identify hurricanes for 2019:

Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Imelda, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sabastien, Tanya, Van, Wendy

Has a hurricane ever been named after you?

If you experience hurricane damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919

What to do in Case of a Fire

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Chester is here to share tips about what to do in case of a fire.

• Have an escape plan and practice it.  Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in case of a fire.  Your plan should identify all available exits from each room and routes that lead from the room to a safe, open air space.  Designate a meeting place away from your house, such as a neighbor's yard.  Practice your plan every few months, including at night, which is when fires are most deadly since it's more difficult to find a safe exit.
• Stay low and crawl to an exit to avoid smoke inhalation. Feel doorknobs to see if they're hot.  Never open a door if the doorknob feels hot.  That means there's most likely a fire behind it, and opening the door will put you in danger and fuel the fire with oxygen.
• Don't hide.  Even if you're scared, it's important to never hide under a bed, in a closet, or anywhere else that emergency responders wouldn't be able to find you. Try not to panic, and do your best to remain calm and make your way to the nearest way out of your house.

If you experience a fire, call Danielle at 610-506-8919

Here to Help with Fire Damage!

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Fires come in many sizes, just as homes range from small to extravagantly large. Large homes might have the luxury of spaciousness, but that can also cause homeowners to have a more difficult time detecting problems early. Fire is one such problem.

When a home in West Chester burns, homeowners often worry about the amount of fire damage their home suffers. However, the smoke and particles in soot pose just as much of a hazard to residents. These particles can carry carcinogens and irritants that make breathing difficult. SERVPRO of West Chester removes all the damage, making your home, no matter how large or small, “Like it never even happened,” again, ready for your family to live in comfortable and familiar surroundings once more.

Removing charred building materials that once made up your home's interior can make your home seem bare, but it is part of the process we implement to prepare for new materials. Smoke-free, these materials pose no risk to your family's health.

Fire damage can impact any area of your home, from floors to ceiling, and we do our best to match new sections to undamaged areas. We know that continuity in your home, from one area of a wall to the next, is one of those small aspects that mean a great deal aesthetically. We want a clean, polished look for your home, just as we know your family appreciated before the fire.

Cleaning up the contents of your home is a job we perform by hand. Some items, such as knick-knack collections, clean up well on-site, in large tubs that we bring specifically for that purpose. Our team gathers together and transports other items, including large draperies and window blinds, for cleaning at our facility. Once completed, all steps, from the restoration of your home to cleaning and removal of soot and grime of your personal belongings and household furnishings, bring together your house, fully restored and waiting for your return home.

If you experience a fire, call Danielle at 610-506-8919

Different Types of Smoke Alarms

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Every year in the United States, about 2000 people die in residential fires.  A smoke alarm stands guard around the clock, and when it first senses smoke, it sounds a shrill alarm.  This often allows a family the precious, but limited, time to escape.  About 2/3 of home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working alarms.

Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, outside sleeping areas, and inside bedrooms.  In general, alarms should be placed in the center of a ceiling or, if you place them on a wall, they should be near the ceiling.

There are 2 types of smoke alarms:

Ionization - these alarms are more responsive to flaming fires.  They use "ions" or electrically charged particles, to help detect smoke in the air.

Photoelectric - these alarms are more responsive to smoke or smoldering fires.  They use a light beam to help detect the presence of smoke.

Whichever type of smoke alarm that you choose, it's imperative that you change the batteries twice a year and test them every month.

If you experience fire damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919. 

Fire Prevention

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that a small flame can turn into a major fire in just 30 seconds. Flames and smoke can fill the house in just a few minutes. SERVPRO of West Chester will help you recover from fire damage. We hope you never need that kind of help.

The best fire control is fire prevention.

SERVPRO of West Chester offers these Tips for Fire Prevention: 

• Items that can catch fire include: dish towels, oven mitts, paper, curtains, wooden spoons, decorations.
• Heat sources include: light bulbs, fireplaces, stove tops, furnaces, candles, or electric heaters.
• Keep items that can catch fire at least 3 feet away from heat sources.
• Keep kids at least 3 feet away from heat sources.
• Turn off heat sources when you leave the home or go to bed.
• Never use the oven as a heater.
• Have the fireplace chimney inspected & cleaned once a year.

SERVPRO of West Chester suggests you keep one or more fire extinguishers available.

Remember fire is fast. If there is a fire, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside the home.

If you experience fire damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919

Commercial Cleaning

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Businesses are starting to go back to work, so having a clean business environment during COVID is extremely important.

Americans spend most of their waking hours at work. While many businesses use a cleaning service, the actual cleaning performed is often minimal, with a quick vacuum and emptying of trash. Deeper dirt, dust, allergens, and pathogens remain in carpets, on blinds, and deep within the upholstery of office furniture. There are so many benefits to having a commercial deep cleaning done at your business, especially to protect your employees from COVID and other viruses.

Employees thrive and work better in a clean, and fresh environment. Think about it, no one would want to work in a dirty environment, especially people who have allergies, and other health conditions. Having a peace of mind about this pandemic during work is extremely beneficial to both employees and customers.

By doing a deep commercial cleaning, you also prevent the spread of viruses and diseases. This means less sick days, and healthier employees which is key. Prevent COVID and protect your employees!

It also is a more professional appearance when customers or clients walk into your business. If you have a clean environment, customers notice that as well. This will give customers peace of mind while attending your business during this pandemic. It also leads to long term cost savings. Having a deep commercial cleaning helps keep the cabinets, desks, and carpets in better condition, and having them last longer.

Consider having SERVPRO of West Chester do a deep commercial cleaning at your business. It just makes sense for your business to thrive in multiple ways. Protect your employees and customers today!

For commercial cleaning, call Danielle at 610-506-8919.

Commercial Fires

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Investing in and growing your own business is the dream of many Americans. Along with the financial resources used to start a company, hard work and time are also used to make a business grow. A fire can cause all three of these types of investments to disappear quickly. Eliminating the soot left behind by a fire can help reduce the damages your business suffers, but only if it is done in time.

When commercial fire damage happens to your business many things begin to occur that are out of your control. Business operations are put on hold; employees can't come to work as scheduled, and customers and clients are inconvenienced, to say the least.

Hidden dangers related to the fire and the damage it caused remain behind. Soot can cause health problems, and the water from the firefighters' hoses can remain, causing perfect conditions for mold and mildew to grow. Structural aspects of your building may have been weakened, and it is now unsafe. Equipment vital to your day-to-day operations may have been damaged.

Fire damage in a commercial setting cannot be handled adequately by a janitorial crew. This type of damage requires skilled, experienced, and knowledgeable people with training and certification. Our technicians work together as teams to make the best use of their training and certifications. No site is too large for our teams to handle professionally and efficiently. We assess the damage and explain which areas can be safely entered, and can help you obtain necessary items from your business site before clean-up even begins.

If you experience fire damage in your business, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help. Call Danielle at 610-506-8919

Causes of Commercial Water Damage

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-509-8919

There are many causes of commercial water damage and SERVPRO of West Chester is here to help you identify and prepare for them. 

Causes of Commercial Water Damage:

- Appliances and equipment. If your facility has equipment that utilizes water, leakage is an ever-present danger. Air conditioners, water heaters, or anything that uses tubes, pipes, gaskets, or filters to operate has the potential to leak. If that leak happens during off hours, you could be looking at major damage. The best thing to do is to regularly look over and maintain your equipment.

- Roofing. Make sure you’re checking your roof regularly. If you get a decent amount of water it means that your drainage isn’t working effectively. Keep in mind that every inch of water weighs in at around five pounds. Over time, this can cause incredible strain and lead to leaks.

- Pipes and drains. It is important to regularly check your pipes and drains, and make sure there aren’t any clogs or leaks. Also, during cold weather especially, you should be checking to make sure the pipes don’t freeze.

- Sprinkler systems. Many commercial buildings are equipped with sprinkler systems, which are great for minimizing fire damage, but not so great for water damage when they malfunction. The fifth cause is Mother Nature causes. Natural disasters like hurricanes, severe thunderstorms and flash flooding can do untold damage to your business. You certainly can’t control the weather, but you can control how ready you are for it.

Call SERVPRO of West Chester with any commercial water damage that arises! 610-506-8919

Candle Safety

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

It’s that pumpkin latte time of year again, and SERVPRO of West Chester wants you to be safe from fire damage and smoke damage. Although fires from candles happen more often around the holidays, many people use candles all year round. It is important to be careful any time you have an open flame in your home.

Prevention is the best way to fight against fire damage or injuries.

SERVPRO of West Chester offers these Tips for Fire Prevention from Candles:

• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire
• Do not let children near candles
• Put out candles when leaving the room or going to bed
• Keep trees and other plants away from candles
• Make sure candles are not near window curtains or blinds that could catch fire
• Keep lit candles in safe candle holders
• If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candles in holders that keep the flames behind glass
• If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candle holders in a sink or a metal container of water
• Do not leave children alone in a room with lit candles
• Do not light candles in the bedroom. You might fall asleep. One third of all candle fires start in the bedroom. 
• If the power goes out, use flashlights instead of candles
• If someone in the home uses oxygen, do not use candles
• Fire damage from candles happens 35 times a day in the U.S.

A little caution goes a long way to protect you and your loved ones. If you have to deal with damage caused by smoke or fire from a candle in your home, your friends at SERVPRO of West Chester are just a phone call away.

If you experience fire damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919.

Fire Extinguishers

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Smoke and fire damage is something all of us at SERVPRO of West Chester would like to see you avoid. In the event the worst happens and you are faced with this kind of disaster, you can count on us to lend a helping hand. We have a team of highly trained professionals to walk with you each step of the way when repairing the damage from smoke, water, and fire in your home.

Just to be safe, SERVPRO of West Chester recommends you keep at least one fire extinguisher and know how to use it (them).

A fire-extinguisher may prevent fire damage and smoke damage from spreading throughout the home.

If you see a small fire that you take care of yourself, use the following tips.  If you have any worries, you and everyone should leave the house and call 9-1-1 when you are outside.

SERVPRO of West Chester wants you to know that you can try to fight a small fire only if:

• You can get to the fire extinguisher quickly. Fire is fast. Fire damage and smoke damage are less painful than personal injuries
• You know how to use the fire extinguisher

SERVPRO of West Chester explains the Types of Home Fire Extinguishers:

Classes A, B, and C fire extinguishers are found in both homes and businesses

• Class A is for cloth, wood, and paper
• Class B is for liquids that can burst into flame or explode, such as grease, gasoline, oil, or oil-based paints
• Class C is for electrical equipment like computers, tools, or anything else that is plugged in
• Most home-improvement stores sell multi-purpose fire extinguishers: Classes A:B:C

If you experience fire damage, call Danielle at 610-506-8919

Keeping West Chester Safe During a Pandemic

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle for Commercial Cleaning 610-506-8919

For proactive and reactive viral pathogen cleaning, one product we rely on is SERVPROXIDE. The disinfectant is effective against a range of pathogens, EPA-registered, and is NSF Rated which means rinsing isn't required on food contact surfaces. 

As our communities get back to business, we all have a new sense of what it means to be clean. In fact, 89% of consumers are uneasy about going back to brick-and-mortar locations. At SERVPRO of West Chester, we’re dedicated to inspiring confidence in communities across the country as we find our way to a new normal. And we’re doing just that with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Certified: SERVPRO Clean our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

If you want proactive or reactive cleaning for COVID-19 done in your business, call SERVPRO of West Chester. We are here to help keep your business safe. 610-506-8919

Finding all of the Water in Your Home After a Water Loss

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience a water loss, call Danielle 610-506-8919

Finding all of the water in your home after a water loss is critical for drying and safety.

Even sanitary water or clean water left standing can become contaminated within days. The longer the water is able to sit and get soaked into materials the greater the damage and the more extensive remediation and repairs. After a water loss, make sure to check these critical places for water or moisture:  

• Ceilings of rooms under the source
• Walls
• Floors
• Wet insulation
• Duct systems
• Crawl spaces
• Basements 

Here at SERVPRO of West Chester, we know how overwhelming a water loss can be. This is why we are here to give tips to help you through the process. When your home or business is affected by water damage, call SERVPRO of West Chester for a trustworthy restoration team. We are here to help your home or business go back to normal. For any fire, mold, or water damage, call Danielle. 610-506-8919

Fire Damage

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Homes can have issues from fire or smoke damage for various reasons. In the Holiday season home fires often occur from unattended candles and cooking accidents. In winter months they often occur due to fireplaces and wood stoves or from space heaters. In the spring and summer months fires often occur from issues related to barbecues and grills.

Fires from barbecues and grills typically cause the most damage to the outside of a home or building but damage can also occur inside due from fire or smoke but also from water damage from firefighting efforts.

Fires can be devastating to your home and life. It is important to be mindful of these reasons that fires can start so that they can be prevented.

If you experience a fire in your home, SERVPRO of West Chester  is the restoration company to call. We are leaders in fire, water, and mold damage restoration. We care about you, your family, and your home and will do anything to get your life back to normal. Call Danielle, 610-506-8919

Fire Safety in Your Home

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Fires can be very frightening – they are scary, spread quickly and can cause devastating losses.  While we cannot completely fire-proof our homes, there are a few safety steps you can take to help protect your family in the event of a fire.

• Install and regularly test smoke detectors. Statistics show that working smoke detectors reduce the risk of death in a house fire almost in half! Fires spread quickly, and once that alarm sounds, you may only have a minute or two to escape.
• Practice Fire Drills at home. Since time is of the utmost importance during a fire, it is best to KNOW what do in the event of a fire.  What is the best escape route? Where does the family meet up outside?  In order to respond quickly, it is best to have a rehearsed plan ahead of time.
• Have fire extinguishers handy & know how to use them. Keep them in an easy access location near a likely source of fire – in the kitchen, the laundry room, etc.  And maybe buy a few extra and have your children practice using them (probably best to do OUTSIDE).
• Childproof your kitchen. To keep small children from accidentally turning on the stove, which may having something on it that could burn.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children. Make sure to teach your children they are not toys.

While no one wants to imagine what they would do in the event of a fire, it is better to be prepared, and have a plan to help keep your family as safe as possible.  And if you do experience a fire, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of West Chester. We are here to help you and your family in any fire, water, or mold emergency. 610-506-8919

Main Causes of Cooking Fires

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

Cooking fires are one of the most common fires that occur in a home. It is important to know the causes so that you can be mindful in preventing them.

The top main cause of a cooking fire are:

1. Towels or potholder left on the stove too close to the burner.
2. Cooking with hot oils.
3. Cooking on too high of heat.
4. Food that burns in the oven or on the stove top.
5. Microwaves 

The damage that cooking fires cause can be devastating to your home and family. It is important to implement safe cooking practices in your home at all time.

If you do experience a fire while cooking in your kitchen, be sure to call SERVPRO of West Chester right away. We know accidents happen and are here to restore your home or kitchen to make them look brand new. Here at SERVPRO of West Chester, we are here to help 24/7/365. Give us a call for any fire, water, or mold damage to your home. 610-506-8919

Here to Help Keep Your Business Safe

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help Keep your Business Safe

As Pennsylvania is beginning to reopen and lift some of the restrictions set in place for the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses are assessing how and when they’re going to reopen. Many are tasked with not only navigating the guidelines set forth by their state but are also working to establish an entirely new way of doing business. Regardless of industry, every business in America has had to make difficult but necessary decisions to develop a strategic plan of action for reopening.

For some, it’s allowing employees to continue to work from home for the remainder of the year. For others, it’s implementing a phased approach of reintroducing both employees and customers to their business environment. For all, a plan that involves a high standard of cleanliness and sanitation is of the utmost importance. Transparency and clear communication of reopening plans, both internally and externally, is proving to be critical for success and support during these trying times.

It’s clear that most businesses are listening to the CDC guidelines and recommendations and placing a higher emphasis on cleanliness and sanitation—for not only their employees to feel safe, but for the safety of their customers as well. These actions and higher standards are becoming the new norm in nearly every industry worldwide and will pave the way for the future of hygienic standards in business overall.

SERVPRO of West Chester is here to help keep your business safe and clean during these times. We care about your business and the safety of your employees and customers.

Give us a call at 610-506-8919, We’ll take the worry for you.

Minimizing Water Damage

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

When it occurs, water damage is a significant problem for business owners. SERVPRO West Chester is here to help when this problem strikes. We are here to educate business owners to on how to handle water damage and minimize its devastating effects.

Water Damage Basics
Some of the possible causes of water damage:

• Storm
• Flood
• Poor Ventilation
• Leaking Pipes
• Excessive Condensation
• High Humidity
• Damp Utility Closets
• Roof Leaks
• Damp Carpets
• Fire Sprinklers

Once water damage occurs on your property, you need to figure out where the water came from, the extent of the damage and how long the property has been damaged.

When dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of West Chester professionals respond immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. They closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So, when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of West Chester is the one to call. In any water, storm, fire, or mold damage, call us 24/7/365. 610-506-8919

Steps to Take After a Storm

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Stay Safe

How to Stay Safe

• Check the local news to make sure your area is safe from the storm.
• Watch out for glass or broken nails
• Avoid standing water
• Look out for hazards such as damaged roofs, broken windows, standing water, or damaged walls.

Assess the Damage to your Home

Take pictures of the storm damage to send to your insurance company!

Roof Damage Signs

• Holes in the roof
• Damaged shingles
• Damaged gutters
• Ceiling leaks
• Dents on vents or gutters

Inspect your windows and doors for cracks and holes. Check the siding of your house, paint, and bricks for damages. Be sure to inspect air conditioning units as well.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

When contacting your insurance company, they will provide you with the next steps needed to make a claim. Your agent can answer any questions you may have about your claim. This will help you become compensated for the damages!

Contact SERVPRO of West Chester!

SERVPRO of West Chester is here to help when your home or business is affected by storm damage. We are leading professionals in the restoration business and offer the best of care. Call us if you experience any storm, water, fire, or mold damage! 610-506-8919

Set up an Emergency Ready Profile for your Business!

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

Set up an Emergency Ready Profile with SERVPRO of West Chester!

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. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO of West Chester is so important. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best. Call 610-506-8919 any time during any emergency.

Here are some reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile^® today on every one of your buildings.

• 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 line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

SERVPRO of West Chester is here to help with any emergency you or your business may face. Set up an Emergency Ready Profile with us as soon as possible so that we can help you as soon as an emergency hits. Call 610-506-8919 for any fire, water, or mold emergency.

Preparing an Office Emergency Kit

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

If you own a business, the safety of your staff is likely one of your top concerns throughout the average workday, but have you considered how to preserve that safety in the event of an emergency? While many situations will call for a quick evacuation, your workplace may have to go in a lockdown scenario to deal with certain disasters, so having an office emergency kit is something that officials certainly advise.

Understanding the purpose behind an emergency kit and what to pack will help you make the best decisions regarding specifically what your office may need. While there are some basics that are wise to always include, there are also plenty of extras that might prepare everyone for wider swath of scenarios that are possible.

What Is An Office Emergency Kit For?

To put it simply, an office emergency kit is for a situation where you and your staff might be stranded in the office after an emergency or disaster. While evacuation is often recommended in these unprecedented situations, there may be certain instances where you will need to stay put until help arrives instead. The emergency kit allows for everyone to have access to necessities, medical supplies, food and water to stay safe and comfortable until help arrives.

What Should the Office Emergency Kit Include?

Emergency kits are something you can keep basic or build out for every possible scenario, and how you approach this is entirely up to you. For a simple emergency kit, include these necessities:

• Non-perishable food, such as granola or protein bars
• Enough water to cover one gallon, per person, per day
• First-aid kits, aspirin and any other medical goods
• Flashlights and excess batteries
• An NOAA Weather Radio

In addition to the very basic items, you may also want to include extras to account for even more situations and keep everyone comfortable for as long as possible. This would include items such as multi-tools/Swiss Army knives, surgical masks, duct tape, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, gloves (both latex and work types), emergency blankets, hand warmers and whistles.

If your office is damaged due to a disaster or emergency, we are here to help. Call SERVPRO of West Chester in any fire, water, or mold emergency. 610-506-8919

Steps to Take Immediately After a Storm

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Chester if you experience any storm damage!

Steps to Take Immediately After a Storm

Take Safety Precautions

Heavy winds and rains may have caused damage that could potentially be dangerous. Collapsed roofs, window damage, collapsed walls, and standing water in your home or business may be present after a storm. Water can also soak into carpets, furniture, or building materials which can cause mold. If you smell gas, shut off your main gas line. Beware of exposed nails, broken class, or sharp objects on your property. Be sure to contact SERVPRO of West Chester to help assess and restore the damages from the storm! 

Photograph the Damage 

If your property is safe to be on, use a cellphone or camera to document damages so that you can show your insurance company. This can help ensure that you will be compensated.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent immediately to notify them of the storm damages. The company will send out an adjustor to determine the extent of the damage so that you may be compensated.

Look Into Federal Disaster Assistance

The Federal Government may have declared your area that was affected by the storm as a disaster area. This means you may be eligible for low cost loans to help restore your property. This requires proper documentation to be filed.

Call SERVPRO of West Chester if your home or business has been affected by a storm. We are here to help restore any fire, mold, or water damages to get your life back to normal!

Why SERVPRO of West Chester?

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Choose SERVPRO of West Chester!

Why should you choose SERVPRO of West Chester? Our professional crews care about you and restoring your property back to normal. We are here to help in any fire, water, or mold situation.

Here are what some of our customers had to say:

“Danielle is such a good front person for this company. No matter how frazzled she may be, she comes across as fresh and helpful as can be. She makes you feel that you are in such confident hands. She is even so helpful and ready to help even when she is working overtime which she does not even get paid for! She answered every text I sent including when she was in a Zoom conference. Thank you!”

“SERVPRO recently serviced my flooded basement. While something I had planned for, Will and his team were excellent. Not only was their pricing significantly more affordable than any other place I had looked into, they were great to work with. Will was very informative through the process. His crew was very respectful, and friendly. The job was done well, and they left my basement dry very clean. I hope to not need a service like this again, but in the chance I did I would definitely use this crew again. I highly recommend. Thanks for the excellent work!” 

“We had a lot of mice droppings in our attic and I found out SERVPRO performs clean up services. It was great to work with Danielle at the office and the team came out and did a great job cleaning everything up. I highly recommend!”

We pride ourselves on helping our customers. Call SERVPRO of West Chester for any fire, water, or mold damage to your home or business. 610-506-8919

Storm Damage

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Chester 24/7/365!

SERVPRO of West Chester 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.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Residential Services

If your home needs emergency flood damage or your home packed and moved, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

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

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Call SERVPRO of West Chester for any storm, fire, water, or mold emergency! 610-506-8919

Contact SERVPRO of West Chester to Perform Flood Water Removal in Your Property.

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Chester for any Storm Damage!

Contact SERVPRO of West Chester to Perform Flood Water Removal in Your Property.

After a storm, floodwater can seep into various areas of your property and can cause severe damage. If not taken care of on time, the water can weaken your structure, cause mold growth, and wood rot. Fortunately, SERVPRO technicians can reduce the chances of these secondary damages from occurring if contacted on time.

What certification does SERVPRO have for restoration?

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) offers standards for cleaning and restoring damaged properties. Our technicians only highly trained, certified, and experienced technicians who can perform flood water removal in your property. We can complete the job according to the standards the IICRC has set.

What should I do after flooding occurs in my property?

It is essential to contact your insurance company to inform it about the damage and begin the claim process. Also, contact professional restorers without wasting time to avoid irreparable damage to your drywall, wood, and other porous materials. Also, avoid:

• Entering your property if it has suffered structural damage
• Walking through flood water without turning off the electricity first.
• Getting into contact with the contaminated water.

Can I turn off the noisy fans at night?

We do not recommend turning off the equipment since the more hours it runs, the faster the drying process occurs. Our SERVPRO team can place the drying equipment at strategic points to encourage optimal drying. Switching off the drying equipment can increase the drying time or provide an opportunity for secondary destruction like a mold infestation to occur.

How long can the odor linger?

Odors in your property can last for months or longer if not handled professionally. Floodwater can bring dead animals and different kinds of debris into your property, which can cause odors when rotting. However, with our approved deodorizing products, we can restore fresh air into your home. We can use water-based cinnamon to combat some odors. The product can replace foul odors with a pleasant scent.

It is vital to take immediate action when you experience flood damage in your property. Contact SERVPRO of West Chester for efficient flood water removal. "Like it never even happened." 610-506-8919

Storm Damage to Your Roof in Chester?

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Let us repair your storm damage in West Chester!

How to Spot Roof Damage

In West Chester, storm damage can occur from high winds, tornadoes, hurricanes, hailstorms, snow storms and other severe weather events and when it does, SERVPRO® of West Chester will be there to help you restore your property back to pre-damage condition. Here are some tips from AngiesList.com on how to spot roof damage:

• Inspect your attic for leaks "https://www.SERVPROwestchesterpa.com/water-damage-restoration" and look for water damage stains on your ceiling or walls

• Check for missing shingles or missing pieces of metal fascia, including any metal pieces displaced from around the chimney

• Check the condition of exhaust pipes, valleys, outer edges or angles where the roof meets the walls

• Check for hail damage on the roof as well as siding damage

• Hail damage commonly comes in the forms of dimples, made by smaller chunks of hail that pound the outer layer of shingles

Call Us

We have years of experience and a team of highly trained technicians ready to help you with any storm damage emergency. SERVPRO® of West Chester is on call 24 hours a day and can usually be there within four hours to immediately begin the cleanup and restoration process.  We will also contact your insurance company and can help you with the paperwork and process. Call us today at 610-692-8884. We’ll restore your storm damage in West Chester “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Firework Fire in West Goshen?

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage from fireworks happens in Chester.

Legal Fireworks

Pennsylvanians are lucky. Under House Bill 542, passed in 2017, state residents are permitted to buy many pyrotechnics including Roman candles, bottle rockets, and other aerial types. The fireworks that remain illegal are M-80s, M-100s, and cherry bombs. Some fireworks, such as display-grade fireworks require permits. SERVPRO® of West Chester wants everyone in West Goshen to have a safe and fun Fourth of July holiday this year and offers these fireworks safety tips from the National Safety Council:

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks
• Older children should use them only under close adult supervision
• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear
• Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
• Never light them indoors
• Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person
• Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
• Never ignite devices in a container
• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
• Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire

Call Us

If you experience fire damage in West Goshen,  SERVPRO® of West Chester has a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond 24 hours a day to assist with the cleanup, restoration, and reconstruction process. Call us today at 610-692-8884.

SERVPRO of West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Property Damage in Westtown?

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial businesses in Chester can rely on us for commercial cleanup and restoration services.

Pennsylvania Property Damage Claims in the Millions

You never know when your business will experience property damage. According to a report by the Insurance Information Institute, (III), Pennsylvania had over 14 million in property loss claims filed in 2018. No matter what type of restoration services your commercial business may incur, SERVPRO® of West Chester has years of cleanup, restoration, and rebuilding experience in Westtown, and has a team of highly trained technicians on call 24 hours a day to assist you with any size job. We know that securing your property after a loss is important, so when we arrive on site, we will secure your property to prevent further damage. Depending on the nature of the damage we may tarp roofs, board up broken windows and doors, remove water damaged carpets, and pack up and store anything that has to be removed in order to complete the repairs. We work on all kinds of commercial projects including:

• 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

Call Us Today

If your business needs restoration services,  SERVPRO® of West Chester is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 610-692-8884. We’ll clean and restore your property damage in Westtown “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO of West Chester takes care of businesses in West Goshen

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

West Goshen Businesses look their best with help from SERVPRO of West Chester

SERVPRO^® of West Chester is an independently owned and operated business in metropolitan Philadelphia. We understand that businesses in West Goshen need to focus on their services and products to operate smoothly.

That’s why SERVPRO of West Chester is available to businesses for both the unpredictable and the predictable. Call us at (610) 854-8891, check our website, or send questions on the link provided by the website.

SERVPRO of West Chester is prepared for the Unpredictable

Recovery from storms, fires, flash floods, and other disasters is business as usual for SERVPRO of West Chester. SERVPRO of West Chester technicians are trained to clean or repair current damage and to prevent more damage. We aim to restore property to its preloss condition.

Weather-related disasters are not the only emergencies. SERVPRO of West Chester is an expert in cleaning to prevent the spread of viruses, bacteria, and fungi. SERVPRO of West Chester also cleans and restores property after contamination, as well as after trauma or crime scenes.

SERVPRO of West Chester takes care of the Predictable

Even if no one ever spills coffee, messes happen. Dust and dirt accumulate, trash cans seem to fill themselves, and the floors never stay clean. SERVPRO of West Chester supplies regular cleaning services to office towers, schools, military bases, and healthcare facilities.

SERVPRO of West Chester works with each company to design the right cleaning program; your business will get all of the services it needs, with none that it doesn’t.

Here to Help^®

SERVPRO of West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Hurricane Damage in East Bradford?

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

We are on call 24 hours a day every day to respond to storm damage emergencies in Chester.

Hurricane Season is Here

Hurricane season is here, and hurricanes have been known to cause damage all along the East Coast. Even if you are not in the direct path of a hurricane, the high winds and storm surges can cause property damage and flooding. SERVPRO® of West Chester wants home and business owners in East Bradford to know that we have years of storm damage restoration experience and we are Here to Help. ® Here are some of hurricane safety tips offered by the Office of Emergency Management, City of Philadelphia:

• Know your area’s flood risk and think about getting flood insurance
• If you live in an area that floods, keep sandbags, plastic sheeting and lumber on hand to protect your home
• Elevate your furnace, water heater and electrical panel and remove other items from the floor
• Know the safest evacuation route from your home and have a family emergency and evacuation plan
• Prepare a Go Bag with emergency supplies that you can grab and take with you in a hurry

Call Us Today

We hope you never experience storm damage to your home or commercial property but if you do SERVPRO® of West Chester is ready to respond 24 hours a day every day. Call us today at 610-692-8884. We’ll clean and restore your storm damage in East Bradford “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Flash flooding in West Chester County?

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding doesn’t need to dampen your spirits in Hershey Mill.

Flash Flood Watch

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, (NOAA), issued a flash flood watch for the West Chester area, due to a strong storm front that developed over the weekend. Flash floods can occur when a severe storm brings heavy rainfall to an area over a short period of time. Areas with poor drainage, creeks, and other watercourses can leave their banks and cause flooding to nearby properties. SERVPRO® of West Chester wants home and business owners in Hershey Mill to know that we have years of experience dealing with water damage emergencies, and  we can be onsite within four hours to begin the cleanup and restoration process.

Flood Safety Tips

Here are some safety tips from the American Red Cross to keep you safe until help arrives:

• Turn off the power and water mains if instructed to do so by local authorities
• Boil tap water until water sources have been declared safe
• Avoid contact with floodwater. Listen to local area radio, or TV stations for the latest information
• Don’t use gas or electrical appliances that have been flooded
• Dispose of any food that comes into contact with flood water

Call Us

Storm damage can become costly if not taken care of quickly. SERVPRO® of West Chester has a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond 24 hours a day, every day, to assist Hershey Mill business owners and residents. We can also help with the insurance paperwork and process. Call us today at 610-692-8884.

SERVPRO of West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

We Provide Specialty Cleaning and Disinfecting Services to Businesses in West Bradford

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

We’re on call to clean and sanitize commercial businesses in Chester.

We Live in Unprecedented Times

Someday this global pandemic will be over. We will be able to return to the activities we love and hug the people we miss. We will be able to go out to dinner with family and friends and take advantage of all the activities we used to before the new coronavirus, COVID-19, turned our lives upside down. We are resilient, we are supporting each other and our communities as never before, and we will get through this unparalleled time in history together. 

Specialized Training

SERVPRO® of West Chester wants home and business owners in West Bradford to know that we have years of specialty cleaning experience dealing with biological pathogens similar to the new coronavirus. Our team of professionals are required to undergo initial, rigorous training and continuing education to stay current on technological advances and industry standards. We adhere to the guidelines set by the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and local authorities.

The CDC recommends that high-touch surfaces be cleaned using EPA-approved cleaners and disinfectants. High-touch surfaces include:

• Counters
• Tabletops
• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Bathroom fixtures
• Toilets
• Phones
• Keyboards
• Tablets
• Tables

Call Us Today

We are on call to respond to any specialty cleaning need 24 hours a day. SERVPRO of West Chester provides quality cleaning and restoration services to West Bradford commercial business owners and residents. Call us today at 610-692-8884.

SERVPRO of West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

We Clean and Restore Your Family Keepsakes in Chester

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

We’re on call to clean and restore fire damage in Downingtown.

The firefighters have just left you are standing in the midst of your home that has been ravaged by fire. Not only is there damage to your home, but there is also damage to your furniture and other home contents caused by soot, smoke, ash and water used by the firefighters to put out the flames. SERVPRO® of West Chester wants home and business owners in Downingtown to know that we provide content restoration services and approach every fire damage emergency with a “restore” versus “replace” mentality to help you save money and to help you preserve as many of your precious and irreplaceable family heirlooms that we can. We can’t always clean and restore all of your belongings back to pre-fire condition, but we can clean and restore many of your damaged contents using techniques like:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.
   

We are on call to respond to any fire damage emergency 24 hours a day. SERVPRO of West Chester provides quality contents restoration services to Downingtown business owners and residents. Call us today at 610-692-8884.

SERVPRO of West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Cooking Safety Tips for Chester

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

We’re on call to clean and restore fire damage in Westtown.

Did you know that cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries? According to the National Fire Protection Association, the leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. SERVPRO® of West Chester wants home and business owners in Westtown to know when a fire breaks out in the kitchen in addition to fire, smoke and soot, water damage may also occur from the use of water by the firefighters to put out the flames. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association for cooking safely:

• Do not use the stovetop when you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, boiling, grilling or broiling food
• If you have to leave the kitchen, turn off the stove
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking
• Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stovetop
• In the event of a grease fire, smother the flames by sliding a lid over the pan and turn off the burner
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed

We are highly trained specialists who will respond to any fire damage emergency 24 hours a day. SERVPRO of West Chester provides fire cleanup and restoration services to Westtown business owners and residents “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 610-692-8884.

SERVPRO of West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Together We Restore your Home in West Chester

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Chester promises to answer when you call.

Together we get it done.

Life is full of mishaps and otherwise unwanted stress creators such as storms. Did you know that wind can reach speeds of up to 60 mph in severe cases?  This kind of wind in your West Chester home or business can cause several different kinds of damage, as well as leave areas of the structure vulnerable to rain and other water crisis such as broken pipes.  SERVPRO of West Chester can work together with you to lower chances for incurring injury and/or cost due to storm damage.

Your part.

Preparedness is a necessary tool in your efforts to protect your home in West Chester.

It’s your house; so not only do you have a vested interest in lowering risks to your home and family; but that same preparedness creates a more stress-free environment. 

Be prepared for the worst when times are the best. Don’t wait until the wind is moving at speeds of forty mph outside before you start making calls and buying batteries. Do these things early on when there are no clouds in the sky.

Our part.

SERVPRO of West Chester promises to answer when you call. We promise that the person fielding your call will understand not only the proper responses to your cleanup and restoration questions but they will understand your vulnerable and stressful position as the owner/insurance adjuster.  We will use that understanding to make you as comfortable with what’s happening as possible. We will send the correct people, and the proper equipment to meet whatever needs have been created by the unfortunate event(s).

SERVPRO of West Chester is independently owned and operated.

From Disaster to Normal in West Chester

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

When a disaster is occurring in your property, there is no time to waste.

From disaster…

Time and again the professionals at SERVPRO of West Chester have been on the front lines in post-catastrophe situations with their service being invaluable to adjusters and homeowners alike. From the mold created by catastrophic water leaks to soot and smoke removal after a house fire, we bring stability and efficiency to the job that only professionals can bring.

…to normal.

At the end of the day inWest Chester, you just want to turn the key, walk in the door, sit your things down, and sink into a soft chair to relax. You’ve just endured the trauma of some fire, water, or mold disaster and clean up and you don’t want to continue to be in the middle of a disaster area. We will strive to make your situation as painless as possible and when the job is complete  and you return to your normal way of living, it will have been our pleasure to have helped make it “Like it never even happened.” So, when or if you’re faced with any of the previously described problems, SERVPRO of West Chester encourages you to call (610) 854-8769  so we can help you remediate the damage.

Who Should I Use for Restoration Purposes in West Chester

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO of West Chester's promise is to provide quality and integrity based service.

Emergency situations usually call for quick reaction. In cases where a home or business structure in West Chester is being compromised by unhealthy and/or unsafe conditions, SERVPRO of West Chester is the-fast-response you need to get relief.  Chaotic situations can be handled or endured in an orderly fashion with professionals and the right tools applied. When you must choose your clean-up/restoration specialist, you are likely considering a few important things:

• Convenient location
• 24/7 availability
• Professionalism
• Efficiency
• Honesty
• Experience
• Latest equipment

SERVPRO of West Chester is the answer.

In a problematic and possibly chaotic situation, remember, we’re here to help.  SERVPRO of West Chester are business owners, homeowners, and renters just like you so we understand the initial needs. The SERVPRO of West Chester's promise to you is to provide the same quality and integrity based service that we, as your neighbor, may also need in the future.

Rental Property Mold in West Chester

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Whatever the disaster, remember that SERVPRO is Here to Help.

SERVPRO of West Chester understands mold and we want to educate our community about the best ways to prevent and treat your West Chester property to avoid costly repairs. 

Mold:

• grows from mold spores

• spores are too small to see unaided
• spores can survive harsh environments for many years
• can grow almost anywhere 
• needs to have only
• above-freezing temperatures
• protein, such as in animal dander, skin cells, wood, plaster, carpet
• moisture (high humidity is enough)
• grows rapidly
• damages property
• has a bad smell
• is unsightly

If you have a small amount of mold on a dish, you can clean it. You can even throw it away. However, if you have a large amount of mold, you need licensed mold remediation from an industry professional. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines a “large amount” as 10 square feet or more. 

If you suspect your apartment or office building might have mold, you need to have a certified mold inspector out to examine the area. SERVPRO of West Chester cannot identify what kind of mold you have, but we are licensed in mold remediation and we can repair the damage caused by mold.

When you have a concern about mold damage in your apartment or condominium, speak with your landlord or property manager if you think he/she should hire licensed professionals. Whatever the disaster, remember that SERVPRO is Here to Help.

Links:

https://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf

Ease your Burden when Disaster Happens in West Chester

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

Ease your Burden when Disaster Happens in West Chester.

When disaster strikes…

For many, your home in West Chester represents a lifetime of hard work and a place where roots are important. It is where family gathers, and where your most endearing and important memories are made. When a disaster strikes; whether it be fire, storm, mold, or other water damage/flooding, it will likely be one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. When these things happen and stress is high call us. Our professionalism and rapid response time, as well as our nonintrusive cleanup and exit should do much to ease the burden you are bearing. SERVPRO ofWest Chester really does want to help you carry the load.

…we’ll be there to ease your burden.

Sharing a load to SERVPRO ofWest Chester means our work makes your situation more bearable. Twenty-four hours a day/seven days a week we are on call with equipment that is up-to-date, and people who are professional and efficient. Our goal is to keep you moving forward with as little worry as possible in West Chester. Please contact us online or at 954-921-8992.

Sharing the SERVPRO History in West Chester

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Chester is ready to make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Why SERVPRO?

Ted Isaacson opened the first SERVPRO® in 1967 in Sacramento, California selling his first Franchise in 1969.  In 1988 the SERVPRO headquarters moved to Gallatin, Tennessee. SERVPRO now has 1700+ Franchises in the United States and Canada. SERVPRO of West Chester specializes in cleanup and restoration services in West Chester. We can make your fire, smoke, water, or mold damage “Like it never even happened.” 

What does SERVPRO of West Chester do?

SERVPRO of West Chester provides:

• residential & commercial cleanup of:
• water/ flood damage
• fire damage
• storm damage
• mold remediation
• restoration

SERVPRO of West Chester performs these specialties, including:

• Water Restoration
• Fire Restoration
• Mold Removal
• Biohazard
• Sewage
• Drapes and Blinds
• Odor Removal
• Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup
• Vandalism and Graffiti
• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Ceilings, Floors, and Walls
• Carpet and Upholstery

SERVPRO of West Chester works directly with most insurance companies, and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in West Chester.

Why SERVPRO of West Chester? Each franchise is an individually owned and operated company.  We have advanced expertise in water restoration along with specialized equipment in water removal and also advanced drying equipment.  

Technicians at SERVPRO of West Chester will keep you informed as they restore your damage so you will know what SERVPRO did, and how the process worked.  

SERVPRO of West Chester is independently owned and operated. 

Commercial Fire in Sharon Hill

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Before & After Photos of a commercial fire we did in Sharon Hill. We can handle the process from start to finish from mitigation to reconstruction.

When you have fire damage and restoration is needed give us a call. Our fire damage professionals are ready 24/7. Our timely response will limit further damage and reduce the cost of your restoration. Our team will start the restoration process as soon as we arrive on site. Our restoration procedure includes inspection and fire damage assessment, immediate board-up and roof tarp service (when necessary), water removal and drying (when water damage is visible), removal of smoke and soot from all surfaces, cleaning and repair, and restoration. We're certified by the IICRC in fire/water restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses. SERVPRO of West Chester has the training and specialized equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.”

The Real Reason That Pipes Burst When They Freeze

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

The real reason why frozen pipes burst is because of the increase in pressure on the side of the pipe where the frozen section is. As there is less space available between the ice and the closed tap that is “upstream,” the pressure spikes—which causes the bursting to happen. 

Many people assume that the cause of pipe bursting is simply due to the freezing - “Because water expands when it freezes.” Water molecules take on a hexagonal form during freezing, which takes up more volume than liquid form. However, when water in a pipe expands due to freezing, it expands to the sides, not directly outward. So, this isn’t the direct cause of the pipe freeze.

Not all frozen pipes burst. However, thawing the ice can increase the risk, as it usually worsens the problem since it raises the pressure further. This is why pipe bursting is especially common at the end of winter when the ice starts to thaw.

Winter weather puts a remarkable number of stresses on a home, which is why you should take special precautions to winterize it against the chill, especially your pipes. One way to prevent pipes from freezing is by adding insulation on the exposed piping (usually the pipes around the water heater). This will prevent the pipes from losing too much heat to the cold air around them, that they freeze.

Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Storm

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Homeowners can take preventative measures to help reduce damage if or when a severe storm hits. Here are a few tips to help you prepare your home for a storm.

*Clear limbs and trim trees - during a storm, dead tree limbs can get loose and cause damage to a home’s exterior or break a window

*Secure fences - ensure that fences are properly secured to help prevent them from being lifted up and thrown against the house by heavy winds

*Secure furniture - heavy winds can cause items like patio furniture and large toys to damage the exterior of your home.  You should also move anything in your yard that can become flying debris inside your house or garage

*Protect your valuables - protect mementos in waterproof containers and/or take them with you if you should evacuate.  Make sure important documents, such as insurance policies, certificates, etc., are stored in a safe deposit or fire safe box.

Causes of Water Damage

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage occurs when excess water begins to pool in areas where it shouldn’t. Many different factors can create this excess water and thereby contribute to water damage. When you are aware of the potential causes, you can take precautionary measures to help insure against a leak or flood. You will also be able to spot a problem as soon as it arises and nip it in the bud before it has a chance to cause any additional damage. The more quickly you notice the problem, the less work the water extraction and water damage restoration company will have to fix.

Causes of water damage include:

• Bursting or leaking pipes
• Issues with the plumbing system
• Buildup in areas prone to collecting water, such as crawl spaces, attics and basements
• Faulty or malfunctioning household appliances
• HVACs (Heating, ventilating and air conditioning units) issues
• Natural disasters and other weather-related water problems

Frozen Pipes

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Be proactive so that you don't have to deal with the mess of frozen pipes this winter season. If you do need us though, SERVPRO is here to help!

With the cold weather right around the corner, it raises concern about pipes freezing in homes and businesses. When pipes freeze, it leaves a huge mess of water damage to your homes and businesses. That is when you call SERVPRO to help you clean up the mess and fix the areas that were damaged from the water. Here at SERVPRO, we make it our job to make sure that the customer is happy with the outcome of the job.

Here are a couple things that will help to prevent your pipes from freezing:

• Keep your home or apartment thermostat temperature set to at least 55 degrees.
• Do not block heat to areas of your residence that contain plumbing or water fixtures. Keep doors open to bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and cabinets that contain pipes, especially those located on the north side of the dwelling, to expose the plumbing to warmer air inside the house.
• Prevent drafts of cold winter air by keeping windows and storm windows closed. Repair cracks or holes around doors and windows to keep cold air from blowing in.
• Cover pipes in unheated areas with heat tape or pipe insulation. 

If you plan to be away from your residence for an extended period of time, ask someone to check your house or apartment periodically. Show them what to do if water pipes freeze and where to locate your water shut-off valve in case of an emergency

The Four Classes of Water Damage

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

Classes of water losses are determined by the rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected by water damage to your property. Determining the Class of Water is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to restore your business. There are four water damage classifications, they are as follows:

Class 1 - Slow Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect only part of a room or area, or losses with lower permeance/porosity materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, vinyl composition tile or VCT, concrete). Little or no wet carpet or cushion is present. Minimum moisture is absorbed by materials, releasing moisture slowly.

Class 2 - Fast Evaporation Rate 
Water losses that affect an entire room or carpet and cushion. Water has wicked up walls 12" - 24". There is moisture remaining in structural materials (e.g., plywood, particle board, structural wood, concrete).

Class 3 - Fastest Evaporation Rate
Water may have come from overhead. Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushion and sub-floor in the entire area are saturated.

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations
These consist of wet materials with very low permanence/porosity (hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, stone, and crawlspace). Typically, there are deep pockets of saturation, which requires very low specific humidity.

Whatever Kind of Storm - SERVPRO Can Fix the Damage

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

Many homeowners expect only the worst storms to do damage to their home. Even short storms can cause damage to a home when trees are victims of disease. Many diseases can create weak trees with dead limbs, and some diseases can affect the roots of the tree instead. A tree that looks healthy may not be in reality, and it can actually be a huge danger to your home or garage without you knowing until it is too late. If your home or garage, or any other outbuildings, have been damaged by tree limbs or trunks, it is good to know that we have the skills and equipment to restore your property to its preloss condition.

When damage happens during a storm or when storm-like conditions happen, repairs should be started and completed as soon as possible. This can substantially reduce the risks posed by the elements to the interior of your home. Repairs will also keep insects and other pests from getting a foothold in further deteriorating your home's exterior. Termites and other pests, some of which may have been the reason behind any diseased trees on your property, won't be able to infiltrate your home's exterior if repairs are made, and completed, in a timely manner.

Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Storm

Homeowners can take preventative measures to help reduce damage if or when a severe storm hits. Here are a few tips to help you prepare your home for a storm.

*Clear limbs and trim trees - during a storm, dead tree limbs can get loose and cause damage to a home’s exterior or break a window

*Secure fences - ensure that fences are properly secured to help prevent them from being lifted up and thrown against the house by heavy winds

*Secure furniture - heavy winds can cause items like patio furniture and large toys to damage the exterior of your home.  You should also move anything in your yard that can become flying debris inside your house or garage

*Protect your valuables - protect mementos in waterproof containers and/or take them with you if you should evacuate.  Make sure important documents, such as insurance policies, certificates, etc., are stored in a safe deposit or fire safe box.

Hurricane Safety

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane season starts June 1 and lasts until November 30.  A hurricane WATCH means that there's a POSSIBILITY that hurricane conditions could occur within 36 hours.  A hurricane WARNING means that sustained winds of at least 74 MPH are expected within 24 hours.

Before a hurricane

*have a disaster plan

*board up windows

*bring in objects from outside that could blow away

*know where all the evacuation routes are

*prepare disaster supplies kits for your home and car

During a hurricane

*stay away from low-lying and flood prone areas

*always stay indoors.  Leave mobile homes and to a shelter

After a hurricane

*stay indoors until it is safe to come out

*do not attempt to drive in flooding water

*stay away from standing water as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines

Who Names Hurricanes?

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

From 1950-1952, hurricanes of the North Atlantic Ocean were identified by the phonetic (A,B,C, etc.) alphabet.  In 1953, the US Weather Bureau switched to women's names.  The naming rights now go by the World Meteorological Organization, which uses different sets of names depending on the part of the world the storm is in.  Around the United States, only women's names were used until 1979.  It was then decided that they should alternate a list that included men's names as well.  There are 6 different name lists that alternate each year.  If a hurricane causes significant damage, its name will be retired and replaced with another. 

Here are the names that will be used to identify hurricanes for 2019:

Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Imelda, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sabastien, Tanya, Van, Wendy

Has a hurricane ever been named after you?

What is a Hurricane?

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

A hurricane is a huge storm!  It can be up to 600 miles across and have strong winds spiraling at speeds of 75-200 MPH.  A hurricane usually lasts for over a week, moving 10-20 MPH over the ocean.  Hurricanes gather heat and energy through contact with warm ocean waters, and rotate counter-clockwise around an "eye" in the Northern hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern hemisphere.  The "eye" is the center of the storm and is the calmest part.  When a hurricane comes onto land, the heavy rain, strong winds, and large waves can damage buildings, trees, and cars.

Hurricanes only form over really warm ocean water of 80 degrees F or warmer.  The atmosphere must cool off very quickly the higher you go.  Also, the wind must be blowing in the same direction and at the same speed to force air upward from the ocean surface.  Winds flow outward above the storm allowing the air below to rise.

Hurricanes are separated into categories based on their intensity and wind speeds:

Category 1 - very dangerous winds will produce some damage - 74-95 MPH

Category 2 - extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage - 96-110 MPH

Category 3 - devastating damage will occur - 111-129 MPH

Category 4 - catastrophic damage will occur - 130-156 MPH

Category 5 - catastrophic damage will occur - winds greater than 157 MPH

SERVPRO of West Chester Is Here to Restore Your Home After Fire Damage

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Chester 24 hours a day/7 days a week...we are always here to help

Fires come in many sizes, just as homes range from small to extravagantly large. Large homes might have the luxury of spaciousness, but that can also cause homeowners to have a more difficult time detecting problems early. Fire is one such problem.

When a home in West Chester burns, homeowners often worry about the amount of fire damage their home suffers. However, the smoke and particles in soot pose just as much of a hazard to residents. These particles can carry carcinogens and irritants that make breathing difficult. SERVPRO of West Chester removes all the damage, making your home, no matter how large or small, “Like it never even happened” again, ready for your family to live in comfortable and familiar surroundings once more.

Removing charred building materials that once made up your home's interior can make your home seem bare, but it is part of the process we implement to prepare for new materials. Smoke-free, these materials pose no risk to your family's health.

Fire damage can impact any area of your home, from floors to ceiling, and we do our best to match new sections to undamaged areas. We know that continuity in your home, from one area of a wall to the next, is one of those small aspects that mean a great deal aesthetically. We want a clean, polished look for your home, just as we know your family appreciated before the fire.

Cleaning up the contents of your home is a job we perform by hand. Some items, such as knick-knack collections, clean up well on-site, in large tubs that we bring specifically for that purpose. Our team gathers together and transports other items, including large draperies and window blinds, for cleaning at our facility. Once completed, all steps, from the restoration of your home to cleaning and removal of soot and grime of your personal belongings and household furnishings, bring together your house, fully restored and waiting for your return home.

How to Escape From a House Fire

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

*Have an escape plan and practice it.  Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in case of a fire.  Your plan should identify all available exits from each room and routes that lead from the room to a safe, open air space.  Designate a meeting place away from your house, such as a neighbor's yard.  Practice your plan every few months, including at night, which is when fires are most deadly since it's more difficult to find a safe exit.

*Stay low and crawl to an exit to avoid smoke inhalation.

*Feel doorknobs to see if they're hot.  Never open a door if the doorknob feels hot.  That means there's most likely a fire behind it, and opening the door will put you in danger and fuel the fire with oxygen.

*Don't hide.  Even if you're scared, it's important to never hide under a bed, in a closet, or anywhere else that emergency responders wouldn't be able to find you. Try not to panic, and do your best to remain calm and make your way to the nearest way out of your house.

Fire Prevention in West Chester

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that a small flame can turn into a major fire in just 30 seconds. Flames and smoke can fill the house in just a few minutes. SERVPRO of West Chester will help you recover from fire damage. We hope you never need that kind of help.

The best fire control is fire prevention.

• SERVPRO of West Chester offers these Tips for Fire Prevention: 
  Items that can catch fire include: dish towels, oven mitts, paper, curtains, wooden spoons, decorations
  Heat sources include: light bulbs, fireplaces, stove tops, furnaces, candles, or electric heaters.
  Keep items that can catch fire at least 3 feet away from heat sources
  Keep kids at least 3 feet away from heat sources
  Turn off heat sources when you leave the home or go to bed
  Never use the oven as a heater
  Have the fireplace chimney inspected & cleaned once a year

SERVPRO of West Chester suggests you keep one or more fire extinguishers available.

Remember fire is fast. If there is a fire, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside the home.

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

Smoke Alarms – Why, Where, Which?

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

Every year in the United States, about 2000 people die in residential fires.  A smoke alarm stands guard around the clock, and when it first senses smoke, it sounds a shrill alarm.  This often allows a family the precious, but limited, time to escape.  About 2/3 of home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working alarms.

Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, outside sleeping areas, and inside bedrooms.  In general, alarms should be placed in the center of a ceiling or, if you place them on a wall, they should be near the ceiling.

There are 2 types of smoke alarms:

Ionization - these alarms are more responsive to flaming fires.  They use "ions" or electrically charged particles, to help detect smoke in the air.

Photoelectric - these alarms are more responsive to smoke or smoldering fires.  They use a light beam to help detect the presence of smoke.

Whichever type of smoke alarm that you choose, it's imperative that you change the batteries twice a year and test them every month.

How to Easily Avoid Commercial Fire Hazards

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

We all know how important it is to have working fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and fire sprinklers.  What you may not be aware of is that it is equally important for employees to do their part to keep fire hazards to a minimum.  Here are a few examples.

Excessive Clutter

Files, folders, and papers need to be disposed of once they are no longer needed.  All of these type of items can easily fuel an office fire.

Electrical Problems

Overloaded extension cords or old surge protectors can become fire hazards.  Electronic devices should be powered down when not in use.  All wiring should be in good working order since old wiring is just as dangerous to a commercial building as it would be in a private home.

Negligence

Mistakes can happen to anyone.  These could include leaving a stove or burner on in the kitchen/break room, burning something in the microwave, or smoking in non-designated areas.

An ounce of prevention could go a long way and be very beneficial  when it comes to keeping your commercial property safe from fire hazards.

Is Your Local SERVPRO on Your Speed Dial?

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Your disaster may not always be fire & water related, but the Professionals at SERVPRO of West Chester are always here to help when it comes to many other situations. If you have something that is stinky, messy, overwhelming or just plain disgusting, think of your local SERVPRO of West Chester as your 9-1-1 rescue clean-up-call. We’ve seen just about everything in 26 years serving our beloved Greater West Chester area.

There are several services that you may never think of until a related disaster strikes your family, home or business including mold, sewage, biohazard, crime or death scene cleanup.  Equipped with the knowledge, experience, training and compassion, the SERVPRO of West Chester team will start helping the moment you call us at 610-692-8884 on a 24/7 basis.

West Chester is a charming college town. In the lazy days of summer, we are often called by the local University, property managers and rental housing investors to come in and do a “Deep Clean” on the entire property to get it ready for the students returning in the fall. Rest assured, we not only clean the structure thoroughly including baseboards, blinds, walls, ceilings, flooring, carpets, bathrooms and even dryer ducts (to name a few things), but we can repair drywall or cabinets if this sort of repair work is needed, too.

Get to know your SERVPRO of West Chester team, because when disaster strikes, (and we all know it’s not a matter of “if”, but “when”), you want to have us on your smart phone and office speed dial. No matter how big or small the loss is, your local SERVPRO of West Chester team will be ready to guide you through insurance concerns and jump in immediately to help make your business property or home  "Like it never ever happened."  We are available day or night 365 days a years to help.

Be sure to Like Our SERVPRO of WEST CHESTER Facebook page.

Benefits of Commercial Cleaning

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Every business should be taking measures to keep their building clean, even if they do not employ a professional cleaning service. It can become hard to keep track of exactly what you should be cleaning regularly. Here is a checklist to make it a little easier to insure your workplace stays neat and tidy.

• Monthly Cleaning List:
  • Dust all surfaces in the office
  • Clean the fabric chairs
  • Vacuum all fabric chairs, vents
  • Deep clean all surface areas
• Weekly Cleaning Lists
  • Sponge all glass windows, both on the outside and inside
  • Clean the refrigerator
  • Disinfect all trash bins
  • Buff and polish all hardwood surfaces, including conference tables, floors, etc.
• Daily Cleaning Lists
  • Empty waste bins and add new liners
  • Vacuum daily debris from all floors
  • Clean painted surfaces 
  • Wipe baseboards, light switches and door handles
  • Clean all reflective surfaces, mirrors and brass
  • Put some room freshener down after cleaning

Common Causes of Sewage Damage in a Commercial Property

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

There are several causes for sewer blockages which can lead to sewage water backup in your building, requiring immediate commercial sewage removal. While some are easy to prevent, others are hidden and hard to detect before you realize you may need commercial sewage removal. 

Structural Defects Can Cause Sewage Damage To A Commercial Property

Different structural defects can develop in a sewage system over time. Misaligned pipes, pipe collapses and cracks or holes in the line can lead to sewage overflow, requiring commercial sewage removal and reconstruction of sewer lines. 

City Sewer Backup Or Surge Can Cause Sewage Damage To A Commercial Property

If the backup occurs in a city sewage line, the wastewater will normally overflow out of the lowest possible opening. In some buildings, especially those with basements, the overflowing sewage wastewater may exit through the building’s lower drains and toilets.

Solid Flushes Can Cause Sewage Damage To A Commercial Property

The most common cause for commercial sewage removal is when sewage backs up from a blockage in the pipeline between the city main and your building. This is commonly caused by solid objects in the sewage system that do not naturally decompose.

Root Infiltration Can Cause Sewage Damage To A Commercial Property

Tree roots often cause sewage backups by entering the water pipeline at joints and spreading. As tree roots grow, they will often crack and break the sewage water pipes, creating additional structural defects.

The Top 5 Causes of Commercial Water Damage

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

The first cause of water damage is appliances and equipment. If your facility has equipment that utilizes water, leakage is an ever-present danger. Air conditioners, water heaters, or anything that uses tubes, pipes, gaskets, or filters to operate has the potential to leak. If that leak happens during off hours, you could be looking at major damage. The best thing to do is to regularly look over and maintain your equipment. The second cause is roofing. Make sure you’re checking your roof regularly. If you get a decent amount of water, your drainage isn’t working effectively. Keep in mind that every inch of water weighs in at around five pounds. Over time, this can cause incredible strain and lead to leaks. The third cause is pipes and drains. It is important to regularly check your pipes and drains, and make sure there aren’t any clogs or leaks. Also, during cold weather especially, you should be checking to make sure the pipes don’t freeze.

The forth cause is sprinkler systems. Many commercial buildings are equipped with sprinkler systems, which are great for minimizing fire damage, but not so great for water damage when they malfunction. The fifth cause is Mother Nature causes. Natural disasters like hurricanes, severe thunderstorms and flash flooding can do untold damage to your business. You certainly can’t control the weather, but you can control how ready you are for it. Call SERVPRO of West Chester with any commercial water damage that arises!

Using a Certified Restoration Company

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

The US estimates that there were 1,319,500 fires in 2017. In the event you unfortunately experience a house fire, the next steps can be utterly overwhelming. The financial loss is the biggest factor, as well as losing a lot of sentimental items, which can never be replaced. SERVPRO believes in contacting a professional restoration company to restore your home immediately after a fire.  Doing so will help you get back into your home, and back to your day to day life sooner. Hiring a restoration company that is properly equipped to handle fire damage is extremely important. 

The saying goes "where there is smoke, there is fire." People don’t realize that far after the fire is gone, the smoke smell and damage lingers. The smell of smoke may not cause bodily damage, but the stench of smoke can linger long after the flames have been put out. Without professional help from a reputable fire restoration company, you and your family could inhale smoke for years, which at the very least, is very unpleasant.

 When the conditions are just right, mold can grow following a fire. In most cases, hidden water puddles behind walls or in closets are just enough to promote a colony of mold in your home. Unfortunately, the untrained eye may not know what to look out for when it comes to preventing mold. By hiring a professional fire restoration team, you reduce the chances that your home will be invaded with mold months or years after your fire.

 Another aftermath of fire damage is soot. Soot is the result of combustion. It is the black film that remains on your belongings after the fire has been extinguished. If you don’t hire a professional to clean your home, an untrained company could miss cleaning some areas that are coated with soot. If this happens, and you overlook it too, then the soot could permanently stain some of your belongings.

 With this all said, it is important to use a properly trained and certified restoration company after fire damages your home. Call SERVPRO of West Chester with any restoration needs.

Fire Prevention Month in West Chester

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we are very passionate about Fire Safety Month. Fire Safety Month for 2019 is in October. This year the Fire Prevention campaign is, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!” works to educate everyone about the small but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe. In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Making a plan with your family to practice and plan an escape during a fire will be critical if you ever need to use that plan. Making a plan with your family is very important. It can literally be the difference between preventing a horrible tragedy. Protecting your family is obviously everyone’s top priority, and making sure you have a plan in place to do so is an important thing to do. Hopefully you will never have to utilize that plan, but being able to have it in place, and practice it is key.

               Fire prevention week started in 1922. In 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed Fire Prevention Week a national observance, making it the longest-running public health observance in our country. This does not just include schools, and children. It is important to educate all walks of life. Senior citizens, and disabled people can also be at risk, as sometimes they are limited in their motility. Making sure you have proper and working smoke alarms is key.  Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9th in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, and caused devastating damage. This awful fire killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres of land.

               At SERVPRO of West Chester, we are passionate about helping the community, and making sure we are taking all necessary steps to inform the community about ways to prevent disasters.

How to Prevent Mold In Homes in West Chester

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Mold spores can be found anywhere, and usually don’t cause any problems. . However, when mold grows indoors, exposure to it can cause different health problems as well as property damage. That’s why mold prevention should be a priority for any homeowner. In order to understand how to prevent mold, it’s important to know how and why it forms in the first place.

Mold only forms when the conditions are just right. It takes three different ways to make the conditions right for mold to grow. The first condition is food. This would mean anything that used to be alive (wood, cardboard, paper, wool, silk, leather, etc.). The next condition would be temperature mold thrives in the range of 68°F to 86°F. This can be especially tricky considering this is the same range we typically keep our homes. The final condition is water.  Very little is needed. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that indoor humidity above 60% is enough to allow mold to develop.

There are certain steps you can take to prevent mold from forming. There are many ways to help control moisture and prevent mold growth in your home. If you can see or smell mold, eliminate the excess moisture, then clean and remove any mold. It’s very important to quickly identify and correct any moisture sources before health and structural problems develop. Call SERVPRO of West Chester immediately if you have any water damage, or find mold in your home.

Carpet Damage in West Chester

10/18/2019 (Permalink)

Have you ever been somewhere where the carpets smell? You may automatically think that the carpets are just old, and need to be cleaned. Have you ever been somewhere where the carpets never smelled, and ended up smelling on a different day? That could mean mold! Especially if you had previous water damage.

The first thing you should ever do if you get unexpected water in your home, is to call SERVPRO of West Chester. The most important thing is to immediately get the water properly cleaned up. If it is a pipe that was leaking, or an appliance, it is important to get the source of the problem fixed, to stop the water from coming back in, or to keep the water from coming in. The next step would be to get the water cleaned up, as soon as possible. This will be crucial to what will be able to be saved, if anything at all. It would then be important to dry the water up fast. This would be to prevent the water from further sitting, and causing more damage or mold.

The next step would be to steam clean everything that was affected by the water. Then to sanitize everything, to make sure there is less room for mold to grow. Mold can be very dangerous, and making sure it is out of your carpets, is very important for your health. Getting mold into your carpets, or underneath, would cause so many issues, especially to your health. Remember, in the unfortunate event that you experience water damage, or feel as if your carpets are smelling in your home after water damage, call SERVPRO of West Chester.

Carpet Cleaning After Storm Damage in West Chester

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

When a storm moves around your area, it can move quickly, causing extensive damage to your home. SERVPRO of West Chester will send someone who will be professionally trained to handle the storm damage, and water damage the storm has caused you. They will check your carpets to see how much destruction has happened, and if your carpet can be saved. If the carpets can be saved, you will be able to avoid the cost of replacement.
All furniture will be moved off the carpeted area of your home and a high quality wet vacuum will be used to remove as much water as possible. At this time you can see if any other valuables are destroyed in the process of the storm damage, and file a claim on those items with your insurance company. Once all the water has been removed, your carpet will be cleaned to help prevent moisture bacteria build up. The carpet will be dried with fans or fresh air. If your carpets cannot be salvaged from water damage, then we will remove the damaged carpets and clean all surfaces before new carpeting is installed. The old carpeting and pad will be disposed of properly. Letting water from storm damage sit is dangerous, and can cause more issues as far as mold. Cleaning up as quickly as possible will prevent any further damage from occurring.

Does Clorox Bleach Kill Mold?

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

Here are the facts about the common brand of bleach:

• Clorox is more useful for killing bacteria and viruses than for killing molds, parasites, and spores. It kills the kinds of microorganisms found in sewer water, but it is not as lethal to any kind of microbe that travels through air.
• Clorox doesn't kill mold effectively at temperatures below 52 degrees F. Some species of mold, however, continue to grow even when the temperature is slightly below freezing.
• By the time you have black, inky blobs of mold, it's too late for Clorox. The active chemical in bleach does not break up the biofilm that glues mold into patches.
• Mixing Clorox with contaminated water greatly reduces its effectiveness for disinfecting walls, floors, and household surfaces. Any kind of formerly living matter in water can bind to Clorox so it can't disinfect anything else. It's important to mix Clorox with clean water.
• Clorox is more effective for disinfecting indoor surfaces than for disinfecting outdoor surfaces. Sunlight breaks down the active chemical that kills bacteria, viruses, and mold.

Clorox is great first aid for water damage. It's just not enough to bring your house back to its original condition. For that, you need the help of water restoration professionals like SERVPRO of West Chester.

Do You Know if You Have Mold?

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

Many people who live in southeastern PA may be dealing with a mold problem without even knowing it. There are many reasons to address this - including health concerns, home value, and aesthetics. If you see mold in a section of your home that is greater than three feet wide, you need to contact a mold professional to inspect it and start the process of remediation. Have a licensed professional come into your home to address the damage caused by mold and especially if it is a species of “black mold.”

The IICRC certified technicians at SERVPRO of West Chester are qualified to address mold issues and we can work with local mold inspectors to determine the optimum solution to get your life back to normal. Restoration can be scary, but SERVPRO can make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you have any concerns or questions about an area of your home affected by mold, give SERVPRO of West Chester a call at 610-692-8884 to have one of our professionals schedule an appointment. We are a premier restoration company and specialize in water damage, storm damage, fire damage, and mold damage. We have been proudly servicing south eastern Pennsylvania for over 14 years.

Every Home Should Have an Air Purifier

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of West Chester, we care about our communities health and safety. Are you one of the millions who suffer from asthma or allergies everyday? Do you own an air purifier? Do you think about the air quality of your home?

Maybe it's time to invest in a air purifier for yourself. You can buy one these days for under $80, the cost of a monthly cell phone service bill.

Most people who buy air purifiers do so in hopes of easing asthma, allergies or even just dust in their homes. The very best portable air purifiers are very effective at cleaning the air, mold spores, smoke, dust, and pollen at their highest and lowest speed.

Mold spores range from 1-30 microns, and air purifiers remove mold as small as .003 microns. UV light is helpful but is not required for removing spores. Mold spores die inside the HEPA filter due to the fact that it's a dry sterile environment. A quality HEPA air purifier removes airborne mold spores and keeps the air quality of your home at par.

If your kids or loved ones constantly suffer from asthma and allergies, test out a good quality air purifier to see if you notice a difference. You'll be glad you did.

ONE-FOUR-EIGHT Response!

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

What is 1-4-8? How can 1-4-8 help me? These are some of the questions we are about to answer for you, and show you how exactly 1-4-8 can help everyone involved. 1-4-8 stands for 1 hour, 4 hours, and 8 hours. This means that within one hour from the notice of loss, a SERVPRO franchise professional will contact you to arrange for service. That within 4 hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO franchise professional will be on-site to start mitigation services, even after hours. Within 8 hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the restoration plan will be communicated to the appropriate person (this may be the customer, the person responsible for billing, or the insurance adjuster). This does not apply under certain conditions, such as catastrophic events, or storm situations. Just know that we pride ourselves on 1-4-8. Give us a call 24/7/365 and we can get started on the 1-4-8! We here at SERVPRO of West Chester look forward to serving you! 610-692-8884

Why you should chose SERVPRO of West Chester

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of West Chester, we have an amazing staff who work hard for you every day. From our owners, who guide us all with years of experience, to our office staff, who work diligently with your local and national insurance agents, to our production team, who are always on standby for you to get the job done ASAP, we strive to provide top notch customer service. If you are looking for a local company to provide professional and timely services, SERVPRO of West Chester is the place, and we won't let you down. Give us a call today and schedule a free estimate, and our team will be out to assist you with any and all restoration or mitigation needs you may have.

610-692-8884

SERVPRO Named to Entrepreneur's Top 10 Franchise List for Tenth Consecutive Year

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO retains top ranking in restoration services category in the 2018 Franchise 500 rankings.

SERVPRO maintains its hold on the top ranking in the Restoration Services industry for the 10th consecutive year in the 2018 Franchise 500 rankings from Entrepreneur magazine. 

"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 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.

"Today, 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.

What You Should Do if your Washing Machine Floods

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Washing machines use up to thirty gallons of water to clean our clothes on a regular basis.  If this convenient device were to flood, however, there would be extensive water damage to your home.  Disaster can strike when we least expect it, so it’s best to have some knowledge of what to do if you experience this problem. 

How to Fix the Problem

Cut off the electrical power supply to the washer at the fuse box.  Don’t stop the washer or immediately pull the electrical plug since doing so can lead to more flooding and possible electric shock. 

Remove the clothes from the washer and drain them in the sink to remove some of the water from the washer.

Check to see if the washer hoses are leaking water. Tighten the hot and cold water supply hoses, and ensure that the drain hose is properly in place.

Test the washer without laundry or detergent to ensure the problem is solved. 

To prevent your washer from flooding, do not put an excessive amount of laundry in the washer during a cycle, and make sure the machine was not recalled.

A water disaster can stem from a small problem, such as a washer leak.  If you experience any water damage in your home, SERVPRO of West Chester can handle the loss for you and restore your property to its preloss condition.

Real Christmas Trees are Recyclable

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

After the holidays, don’t throw your real Christmas tree in the trash or set it on the curb. Real Christmas trees are biodegradable, which means they can be easily reused or recycled for mulch and other purposes. Here are some recycling options and tips on what to do with your tree after the holidays. Every community is different, but in general, you have these options:

Curbside pick-up for recycling: Many providers will collect trees during regular pickup schedules on the two weeks following Christmas.  There are often requirements for size, removing ornaments, flocking, etc. 

Take your tree to a drop-off recycling center: Most counties have free drop-off locations. Usually, you may take up to two trees to a drop-off location at no charge. 

Yard waste: Cut the tree to fit loosely into your yard waste container. 

Tree recycling/mulching programs: Tree recycling and mulching programs are a fast-growing trend in communities throughout the nation. Check with your local department of public works for information. They chip and shred the trees, then make the mulch available for use in your garden.  Your hauler will notify you of pick-up dates in your area. Be sure to check with your local hauler. 

Nonprofit pickup: Call for an appointment to have a nonprofit organization in your area pickup your tree. Some Boy Scout troops offer a pickup service for a small donation (often $5). 

 Other Recycling Options

 Soil erosion barriers: Some communities use Christmas trees to make effective sand and soil erosion barriers, especially for lake and river shoreline stabilization and river delta sedimentation management. 

Fish feeders: Sunk into private fish ponds, trees make an excellent refuge and feeding area for fish.

Bird feeders: Place the Christmas tree in the garden or backyard and use it as a bird feeder and sanctuary. Fresh orange slices or strung popcorn will attract the birds and they can sit in the branches for shelter. (Make sure all decorations, hooks, garland and tinsel strands are removed).  Eventually (within a year) the branches will become brittle and you can break the tree apart by hand or chip it in a chipper. 

Mulch: A Christmas tree is biodegradable; its branches may be removed, chipped, and used as mulch in the garden.

Paths for hiking trails: Some counties use shredded trees as a free, renewable and natural path material that fits both the environment and the needs of hikers.

Living, rooted trees: Get a rooted (ball and burlap or containerized) tree and plant it in your yard. (It's a good idea to dig the hole in the late fall while the soil is still soft, then plant the tree into that hole immediately after Christmas.) Living trees have a better survival rate in mild climates.  

Important: Never burn your Christmas tree in a fireplace or wood stove.

Removing Your Tree
           The best way to avoid a mess removing your tree is to place a plastic tree bag (available at hardware stores) underneath the stand when you set the tree up. You can hide it with a tree skirt. Then, when the holidays are done, pull the bag up around the tree, stand and all, and carry it outside. Obviously, you will want to remove the stand before recycling the tree. If some needles do scatter inside, it is better to sweep them up; needles can clog vacuum cleaners.

Look. Listen. Learn

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

While fire prevention week may be over, practicing fire safety should always be an important part of everyday living. The theme for 2018's Fire Prevention Week is Look.Listen.Learn. This theme aims to raise awareness of “three basic but essential steps to take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire.” Those steps are:
LOOK for possible fire hazards in your home and eliminate them.
LISTEN for your home’s smoke alarms. Know that you may have only minutes to get out if a fire breaks out.
LEARN two ways out of each room of your home. Exits should be easy to access and free of clutter. After leaving the home, go to your family’s designated meeting spot, established when you set up a home fire escape plan.

The National Fire Protection Association provides resources, including community posters, for the public to use to educate others about home fire safety. For kids, the campaign has activity pages and Simon, a character who shares messages about fire safety.

October Is National Fire Prevention Month

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Month (and week) raises awareness about fire safety and home safety to help ensure your home and family are prepared in the case of an emergency. This is a perfect time to discuss fire safety with your family. Every family's safety plans will differ from the next - that is why it is important to sit down with your whole family and plan your home's fire safety plans.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)'s 2018 campaign for Fire Prevention Week is "Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. A fire can be anywhere."

According to the NFPA*, in 2016 there were 352,000 home fires, and 3 out of 5 fire deaths occurred in homes without smoke alarms.
Less than 50% of homeowners have an escape plan.
Carbon monoxide is the #1 cause of accidental death.

These facts and statistics are reasons why your home needs to be equipped with the proper amount of fire safety equipment and alarms. Fire Prevention Month is a great time to kick start your families commitment to fire safety!

Why is fire prevention week in October?

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

National Fire Prevention Week is observed in the United States and Canada, during the week (from Sunday to Saturday) in which October 9 falls.

The Fire Prevention Week commemorates the Great Chicago Fire. On the 40th anniversary (1911) of the Great Chicago Fire, the Fire Marshals Association of North America (FMANA), the oldest membership section of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), sponsored the first National Fire Prevention Day, deciding to observe the anniversary as a way to keep the public informed about the importance of fire prevention. In May 1919, when the NFPA held its 23rd annual meeting in Ottawa at the invitation of the Dominion Fire Prevention Association (DFPA), the NFPA and DFPA both passed resolutions urging governments in the United States and Canada to support the campaign for a common Fire Prevention Day. This was expanded to Fire Prevention Week in 1922. The non-profit NFPA, which has officially sponsored Fire Prevention Week since its inception, selects the annual theme for Fire Prevention Week.

In the United States, the first national Fire Prevention Day proclamation was issued by President Woodrow Wilson in 1920. When President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed the first National Fire Prevention Week on October 4–10, 1925, he noted that in the previous year some 15,000 lives were lost to fire in the United States. Calling the loss "startling", Coolidge's proclamation stated: "This waste results from the conditions which justify a sense of shame and horror; for the greater part of it could and ought to be prevented... It is highly desirable that every effort be made to reform the conditions which have made possible so vast a destruction of the national wealth".

Business Owners: What You Should Know about Commercial Fire Damage

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Investing in and growing your own business is the dream of many Americans. Along with the financial resources used to start a company, hard work and time are also used to make a business grow. A fire can cause all three of these types of investments to disappear quickly. Eliminating the soot left behind by a fire can help reduce the damages your business suffers, but only if it is done in time.

When commercial fire damage happens to your business many things begin to occur that are out of your control. Business operations are put on hold; employees can't come to work as scheduled, and customers and clients are inconvenienced, to say the least.

Hidden dangers related to the fire and the damage it caused remain behind. Soot can cause health problems, and the water from the firefighters' hoses can remain, causing perfect conditions for mold and mildew to grow. Structural aspects of your building may have been weakened, and it is now unsafe. Equipment vital to your day-to-day operations may have been damaged.

Fire damage in a commercial setting cannot be handled adequately by a janitorial crew. This type of damage requires skilled, experienced, and knowledgeable people with training and certification. Our technicians work together as teams to make the best use of their training and certifications. No site is too large for our teams to handle professionally and efficiently. We assess the damage and explain which areas can be safely entered, and can help you obtain necessary items from your business site before clean-up even begins.

SERVPRO Understands the Mold Life Cycle and Can Remediate Problems

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Mold spores are everywhere. The only exceptions are hospital surgical rooms and maybe so-called ‘clean rooms’ needed for assembling some types of electronics. As inert spores, they are no more dangerous to homes or people than common house dust.

For homes in the West Chester area, mold damage is only a concern when three factors achieve the right levels of moisture, food, and temperature. To halt mold growth and deal with the damage, SERVPRO technicians know to interrupt one or more of these factors.

The temperature range most mold thrive in is 68 to 86 degrees. That encompasses the comfort range for nearly every home in Pennsylvania. Raising the temperature is fairly simple, all we have to do is turn off the air conditioning for about an hour. Since homeowners cannot live like that and it is too expensive to keep a home under 68 degrees, we can only alter the temperature in a commercial building like a warehouse.

Spores feed and grow on common building materials like ceiling tiles, drywall, and wood. Even the insulation in walls and attics can serve as food. As the mold colony grows, spores extend growths called hyphae to dig into the materials and feed. If they penetrate deeply, the only way to remove the mold is to remove the infested drywall or other material. Since it is impossible to remove all building materials from the home to prevent mold growth, SERVPRO technicians concentrate on interrupting the moisture.

The source for most moisture in a home is a leak or drip from a poorly connected or damaged pipe. The simplest way to find the source is to trace the mold growth and follow it to its origin. We do this with visual inspections and an air content meter which measures the number of spores in the air. Once we find it, technicians tighten the connection, repair the pipe or another leak source, or simply replace the damaged section. For complicated repairs, we recommend for the homeowner to hire a plumber.

SERVPRO Quickly Establishes a Drying Plan Based on the Initial Assessment

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Any time water gets inside your residence, removing the excessive moisture within 48 hours is essential. If wood or paper materials stay wet for longer, then microbial formation can take place. Water can also saturate contents and building materials inside your home ruining them.

After something like a pipe break or an appliance malfunctioning takes place and causes water to flood your house, extraction occurs to pull out any standing water and moisture inside porous materials. The next step in any water removal project is the drying process. Rapid drying of contents and structural components is essential to prevent secondary damage and mold growth.

Before drying begins, the area gets tested to determine the extent of damage the moisture has caused. Our SERVPRO technicians check the temperature, relative humidity, and moisture content of wood and drywall. Once we figure out how wet the region got, we can formulate a drying plan.

The initial drying plan includes how many air movers and dehumidifiers get set up in the affected area. The plan also indicates drying goals. The drying goals are set by determining what the conditions were before the loss took place.

The ending goal is determined by coming up with a dry standard. To establish a dry standard, humidity, temperature, and the moisture content of drywall and wooden materials in unaffected areas of the building get tested. Once the standard is designated as the drying goal, our IICRC certified team uses their knowledge and experience to determine the right pieces of drying equipment to rapidly dry out moisture until it is back to preloss conditions.

Winterizing Tips to Prevent Mold Growth

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

The wet season in the winter months is one of the best times of year for molds to grow and expand.  Many times mold is contained near sources of water where it can easily grow and reproduce.  As it grows, mold can break down and compromise the integrity and strength of the source in which it lives.

Mold can be killed, but if it is not removed properly, it can remain in the area just cleaned and the dry spores can be released into the air.  Prevention is key to keep your health from being affected by mold and homes and buildings strong.

Here are some winter weatherizing tips to keep mold at bay:

*keep all areas clean - mold feeds on dust

*make sure all seals on windows and doors are not compromised and in good working condition

*clean and repair roof gutters regularly

*if there are freezing temperatures, take measures to insulate pipes inside and out to ensure they will not crack and/or burst.

The 2 most important things to remember when trying to prevent mold growth are - keep everything clean and keep everything dry.

Houseplant Mold Prevention Tips

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Many people have houseplants in their homes - they are used for both decoration and for helping to improve air quality.  Unfortunately, houseplants can also be the source of mold.  Since plants require a lot of moisture to survive, it makes them the perfect feeding grounds for mold.

Mold needs 3 things to thrive - food, oxygen, and moisture.  Organic matter, such as soil and leaves, are some of mold's favorite foods. To prevent active growth in plants, treat them just like any other parts of your home. That is to control the moisture levels. Listed below are mold prevention tips that will lower the chances of houseplant mold.

• don't over water - follow the watering instructions that came with the plant
• cinnamon - this natural, harmless, anti-fungal substance can be added to the soil
• gravel - adding gravel to the bottom of the soil will help the plant drain more efficiently

By following these tips, you can still enjoy the benefits of having plants in your home.

Do I Need Mold Inspection Services?

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is great at hiding in places you would never suspect. Even hidden, it can cause great damage to the property and to the health of those living there. Here are some things you can do to find out whether you need mold inspection services.

Sniff the Air

Mold has an earthy, musty odor. If this is a natural smell of a property, there is probably mold growth somewhere. It's suggested to turn off either the heat or air conditioning and close all doors. After a few hours, go room to room and find which room has the strongest odor. This is most likely the room where the mold growth is most active. 

Water Intrusions

If you’ve had a water leak that caused surfaces to be wet for more than 24 hours, you probably need a mold inspection. This rule is a reminder that you can control mold by keeping moisture under control within a property. If moisture levels reach above 60% on a humidity reader, mold will likely grow.  If surfaces remain wet for more than 1-2 days, the mold growth process will likely begin. 

How Can I Protect My Home from Water Damage?

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

Preventing water damage is a whole lot cheaper than paying for repairs.  Here are 3 easy prevention tips:

*Ensure good drainage

clean your gutters

direct downspouts 5-10' away from the house

slope your yard away from the foundation

*Test your sump pump

check your sump pump once a year

test more frequently during storm season

*Fix water leaks

repair any noticeable dripping pipes

check for dark spots under pipes and on ceilings

repair any cracked caulking

inspect the roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles

Water damage is the #1 culprit that can weaken your home's foundation and the very core that holds your house together.

What to Do When Your Basement Floods

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

A flooded basement can give any homeowner a feeling of helplessness and panic.  If this happens to you, try not to over-analyze the situation - it may not be as bad as you think.  Here's some tips you can use if you find your basement flooded.

*make sure to shut off any power around the area, including electricity and gas.  NEVER enter a flooded area while the power is on

*take action as soon as you notice flooding, unless the water is caused by rain.  In this case, wait until it's passed before getting to work

*if your basement has a floor drain, check to make sure it didn't become clogged.  Keeping it open and working will help drain the water

*start removing water by using a sump pump, pool pump, or wet/dry vacuum - depending on the amount of water

*move damaged items out of the basement to dry in a well ventilated area

You may want to call a professional for help if the water was more than several feet deep or if you see mold or mildew developing.

Mold Prevention Tips

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

There is always going to be some mold everywhere - in the air and on many surfaces.  Molds have been on the Earth for millions of years.  Mold grows where there is moisture.  Here are some tips to help prevent mold growth in your home.

*keep humidity levels as low as possible - no higher than 50% - all day long.  An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help keep the level low.

*be sure your house has adequate ventilation

*fix any leaks in your home's roof, walls, or plumbing

*clean up and dry out your home thoroughly and quickly (within 24-48 hours) after flooding

*add mold inhibitors to paints before painting

*clean bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas with mold-killing products

*remove or replace carpets/upholstery that have been soaked and cannot be dried promptly.

How to Stay Safe When a Winter Storm Threatens

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Even though it's still officially summer, we all know that winter will be here before we know it!  Below are some tips to keep in mind for the upcoming cold weather.

*Know your area's risk for winter storms

*Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping

*Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power

*Stay indoors and off the roads

*Never use a generator, camp stove, or charcoal grill indoors as these can start fires, cause electric shock, and/or cause carbon monoxide poisoning

*Monitor local news and alerts for emergency information and instructions

How to remove cigarette smoke from your home

8/14/2018 (Permalink)

­

How to Remove Cigarette Smoke Odor in Your House. 

Checklist for a stress-free moving day.

8/14/2018 (Permalink)

­

A Moving Checklist That Is Stress-Free | Rainbow International