Archived Blog Posts
Avoid These Mistakes When Water Damage Enters Your Home
2/20/2023 (Permalink)
For Fast and Professional Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration, call us at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County.
Common Homeowner Water Damage Mistakes to Avoid
When your home suffers from a water damage event, the process of minimizing damage and restoring a property to its original condition can be a stressful time. Unfortunately, many homeowners are not fully aware of the proper process for cleanup and restoration and make common mistakes while trying to help. These mistakes can make restoring a home even more challenging.
Below are some helpful tips that can help homeowners avoid common mistakes, which will reduce the cost, time, and stress for making a water damage event "Like it never even happened."
Mistake #1: Trying to self-clean and restore their home after a water damage event.
We have all been there; we want to save time and money, so we try to take on a project in our home. Water damage to your home should not be treated as a normal project. If the amount of water is covering multiple rooms or has shown damage to cabinets or other structural components, you do not want to try and simply mop it all up and put a fan or two on it. The problem is that most homeowners do not have the right experience and equipment to properly handle a water damage. Water easily seeps into areas that you may not know to look at or have the ability to check. Properly drying out building materials is a difficult task and one best left to a professional.
Mistake #2: Not Calling a Professional Soon Enough.
One of our taglines at SERVPRO is 'Faster to any size disaster.' This is because arriving and acting fast is a critical aspect of effective water damage restoration. Water tends to spread fast, traveling behind walls, cabinets, appliances, and underneath flooring. Once that happens, mold can grow and further damage walls, furniture, and other materials. Mold can begin to grow less than 24-48 hours after water exposure depending on other circumstances in the home (humidity level, pre-existing water damage, temperature, etc.).
To quickly find the source of the water damage and shut it off, and then to immediately begin the water extraction and drying process is crucial for your home's restoration. Calling a professional water damage cleanup and restoration company is the best way to do that.
Mistake #3: Not Taking Safety Precautions.
Being in a home that recently suffered from a recent water damage event can be dangerous, especially if the water damage came from flood waters, sewage back up or other 'category 3' type sources. Along with potential biohazard contaminations, potential slips and falls from wet flooring and stairways can also create a dangerous situation. Care must be taken when operating any electronic device or appliance, because turning on electronics or touching electronic devices can result in electric shocks or further damage to the property.
Saturated building materials can fail, and debris can lead to slips and falls. The best thing a homeowner can do after eliminating the source of the water (if possible) and calling a water restoration company is to leave the building and stay out.
Mistake #4: Not Realizing the True Amount of Damage to Your Home.
The amount of damage caused by a water damage event isn’t always immediately visible. If you take the "Do It Yourself" approach and only clean up the visible water, you will most likely discover mold or unpleasant odors lingering in furniture, floors, and walls in the near future.
To properly evaluate the true amount of damage from a water event, you must follow through with industrial standards for cleanup and deodorization. This may include antimicrobial treatments or sanitization processes and is something a professional restoration company is best suited to handle.
A proper evaluation of the damage is also vital for insurance reasons. Some insurance providers will deny claims where homeowners attempt repairs themselves or delay calling a professional to document the damage. The best way to ensure a policy covers the full cost of a restoration is to work with a reputable restoration company and contact them immediately.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County works with all local, state, and national insurance companies, and is a preferred vendor for many of them. If your home suffers from a water damage event, call us 24/7 365 days a year at 864-576-2430. We are here to help.
Why SERVPRO is Your Preffered Commercial Water Damage Vendor
2/20/2023 (Permalink)
IICRC certified water damage restoration professionals.
Flooding and other water damage events in a commercial building often present unique and complex challenges. From figuring out how to remain operational, product loss, and information security, solving these problems requires a flexible company that understands that every water damage event is different. Here at SERVPRO of Spartanbugr County, our team is constantly training to help ensure that we're able to address every water damage as efficiently and effectively as possible.
As IICRC certified water damage restoration professionals, if possible, we have the knowledge necessary to properly contain an area so that you can continue your business's operations safely. If needed, we're able to perform our work after-hours as well. Additionally, we offer contents restoration and are often able to help reduce your losses by drying and cleaning the items damaged in the water, including your important paper documents. Replacing items and building materials can be costly, which is why we always focus on repairing rather than replacing them wherever possible.
In some cases, water damage can span thousands or even hundreds of thousands of feet of building space. We have a large loss division to address these events that are trained in the logistics of restoring large buildings like dorms, hotels, warehouses, and large offices spanning multiple floors. There is truly no job too large for us to handle.
With over three decades in the restoration industry, you can count on SERVPRO of Spartanburg County to make your commercial water damage, "Like it never even happened."
Turkey Talk with SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
11/2/2022 (Permalink)
Consider these useful tips before you get started in the kitchen this Thanksgiving and Holiday season.
Turkey Fryer and Kitchen Safety for Thanksgiving
As we get ready to cook some turkeys this upcoming holiday season, we have to remember that things can turn deadly very fast if we don't take the proper precautions while putting together our Thanksgiving/holiday meal.
Turkey fryers are a southern tradition when it comes to Thanksgiving Day, but they can quickly turn dangerous if not used properly.
Here are some turkey frying safety tips to remember this holiday season from our local Fire Department:
- Make sure that you don't overfill the pot by measuring the proper level with the turkey in water first, and then add the oil after you've measured the level once the turkey has been removed.
- Once the oil has been heated to the proper level, turn the burner off before adding the turkey so that if the oil does spill out, it doesn't start a fire.
- NEVER put a frozen turkey into hot oil.
- Make sure that you are using oven mitts and safety glasses when handling the turkey.
- After you're done cooking, allow the oil to cool sufficiently before disposing of it.
- If you're working in the kitchen, make sure that you are not wearing clothes with long sleeves.
- Make sure to turn the pot handles inward so that they don't get knocked over by accident.
- Also, it's a good idea to keep kids and pets out of the kitchen while things are being prepared.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County hopes that everyone has a great and safe Thanksgiving & Holiday season this year!
Keep the Cold Out of Your Facility
11/2/2022 (Permalink)
Don't let your production freeze up due to cold weather, call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County to keep business moving - even in inclimate weather.
Cold weather is here in Spartanburg County, and that means turning on the heat.
Is your Heating System ready for the strains that harsh freezing winter temperatures bring?
Here are a few maintenance tips from SERVPRO of Spartanburg County that will help you keep your heating system in good running condition so that you can stay warm in your business unit all winter long:
- Air filter cleaning and or replacement
- Cleaning your air vents
- Adding some insulation to your office or warehouse
- Adjust your thermostat for optimum heating throughout the unit
- Schedule an Inspection from your local SERVPRO
Don't let the cold freeze your productivity this winter. If you aren't sure your commercial building is winter-ready, call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County to schedule a consultation today before inclimate weather becomes an issue for your business.
SERVPRO is here to assist you. Through maintenance and repair, the experienced, professional, and friendly technicians at SERVPRO will make sure your business's heating system is ready for the upcoming winter season. 864-576-2430
Disaster and Diplomas: SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is Here to Help Your Educational Facility
11/2/2022 (Permalink)
Keep class in session and leave the mess to SERVPRO of Spartanburg County.
When water, fire, mold, or other emergencies happen, who is going to deep clean and repair your institution?
Disasters at an educational building are highly complex and require a knowledgeable and flexible response. We offer 24/7/365 emergency service response for water and fire damage in addition to mold remediation, biohazard cleaning, commercial cleaning, and pathogen cleaning (including COVID-19) to all educational facilities.
Whether we’re dealing with a small school campus or an institute of higher education, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area so that normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
Our professional team of technicians is trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area.
Our experience in handling educational facilities cleanups has given us the ability to provide a variety of detailed services for the following educational facilities: K-12 Schools, Colleges & Universities, Dormitories, Private Schools, Libraries, and Daycares / Pre-K Facilities.
From county school systems to large accredited colleges and universities, SERVPRO works to make your education facility disaster “Like it never even happened.”
Water Damage Timeline: From Minutes to Months, How Does it Affect Your Structure?
9/19/2022 (Permalink)
Standing water in a flooded warehouse space. Water is constantly moving to find equilibrium, but the sooner SERVPRO comes out to extract, the better.
Untreated Water Damage
"What's a little water going to hurt," you say? Structures continue to deteriorate when water damage is left untreated. When left untreated, water damage goes through a general timeline:
Within Minutes
- Carpets, padding beneath, and subflooring becomes saturated.
- Furniture on wet carpets start to leach and stain.
- Wood/wood products start absorbing water.
- Personal belongings may be completely destroyed.
Within Hours
- Humidity and other factors begin to generate unpleasant odors.
- Particleboard cabinetry and furniture becomes distorted and the integrity of the material weakens, crumbling over time.
- Dyes from non-colorfast fabrics bleed (clothing stored together, upholstery, etc.).
- In 48 hours or less, clean or grey water can deteriorate to black water, and areas that experience water intrusion from clean water initially can quickly become contaminated.
Within Days
- Mold can become visible and cause musty odors.
- Allergen sensitivities can be caused by microbial organisms.
- Wood may severely warp and cup, making most wooden floors unsalvageable.
- Painted walls blister and wallpaper begins to peel away.
- Structural wood within home, such as framing, begins to swell and split.
Within Weeks
- The structure may become hazardous to human health and may need to be evacuated if health conditions become a concern.
- Mold infests organic materials, rendering it unsalvageable.
- Drywall crumbles while the home’s structural integrity declines.
- Damage to the foundation becomes apparent.
- Home may be salvageable but may need to be gutted down to the studs.
Within Months
- Damage to the foundation may be significant.
- The cost of repairs is likely more than the value of the home.
- Damage that could have been prevented over time (i.e., neglect) disqualifies the owner from insurance claims.
- The home may be unsalvageable
Don't go at it alone. Just because it "looks dry" doesn't mean it is dry.
Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County today at 864-576-2430
Commercial Building Construction: 5 Tips to Know Before You Break Ground
9/19/2022 (Permalink)
Make sure to consider these tips before breaking ground on that new building.
Commercial building construction, 5 tips to know before you go
1. Check your options
The scale of any construction project demands a major commitment from a company. Remember that the time and energy invested in commercial building construction could also be put into the business itself.
2. Make the correct projections
A bank advisor can help you determine the cost of your project, how much money you'll need from start to finish, and the right financing options for your build.
3. Make sure your building permits are in order
Be sure that you've complied with all local rules with the right permits. Do this as early as possible, since building without a permit is not an option. Check with your city to see exactly what you're allowed to do with and without a permit.
4. Get a good architect
Good ones cost money and because of this, some companies will sometimes skip the step of hiring a good architect. While you might think you're saving money up front, you will lose in the end because of problems not originally planned on.
5. Be realistic
Companies often lose business during construction projects because management is less focused on performance and too worried about the new building.
Questions? We can help. Call us today at 864-576-2430
The Importance of a Fire Escape Plan
9/19/2022 (Permalink)
Good preparation goes a long way in an emergency situation.
During a fire, people can have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out.
In a matter of minutes, a small fire can produce a major flame, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place.
A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families and businesses have developed and practiced a fire escape plan.
Once a family or employee plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home or office understands the plan. The best way to do this is to develop some muscle memory by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. This will increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building an escape plan, and then practicing it.
The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan. (*Tips and statistics provided by the American Red Cross)
- Draw a map of each level of your home or business and show all the doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.
- Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they will be used.
- Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting area on your escape plan.
- Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them. Plan for everyone in your home or office, with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals.
- Practice your fire escape plan during the day and at nighttime.
If you suffer fire damage to your structure, call SERVPRO when the coast is clear - we can help!
864-576-2430
How Quickly Can Mold Grow in My Spartanburg Facility?
9/19/2022 (Permalink)
Untreated water intrusion and/or humidity issues can lead to mold issues in your commercial building
If you have water damage/intrusion to your structure in Spartanburg County, you are probably wondering if you will soon have mold in your facility. The answer is probably yes if you don't take action right away to mitigate the damage. To help you prepare just in case you are faced with mold exposure, here is some information about mold growth.
What Causes Mold To Grow?
Mold needs only a few ingredients to thrive:
- Water
- Oxygen
- Food (organic material like wood)
- Suitable temperature
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, once moisture from a ceiling leak begins to accumulate, black mold and other mold types can start growing in 24 to 48 hours. Mold spores are present in most environments and travel by air currents and water. They can also hitch a ride on clothing and fur. They can survive in conditions that don't support mold growth. Once they find moisture, it doesn't take long for them to settle in and thrive, forming colonies known as mycelium.
How Can I Prevent Mold Growth?
Once you know you have a roof leak in your building, act right away to identify the source and stop water from entering. A professional mold remediation company can help you by inspecting the damage and finding hidden sources of water. If mold is detected, technicians will isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and/or negative air chambers. They will use vacuums and other specialized equipment and antimicrobial agents to prevent the spread of mold spores.
If surfaces have been contaminated by mold, technicians will use antimicrobial and antifungal treatments to remove colonies. Any porous materials that are too damaged, such as carpeting or drywall, can be removed and replaced. If your facility needs significant repairs, areas can be remodeled and reconstructed.
If you suspect your facility's roof in Spartanburg County has been compromised, it's best to call for help right away to prevent potential mold damage. Call us at 864-576-2430 for help today!
Don't Just Ready the Storm; Prepare for it NOW
6/20/2022 (Permalink)
In recent years, many different types of disasters have affected the United States. Flooding, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, and blizzards are natural disasters that can threaten your home, business, and community. Your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals want you and your customers to be aware of the steps to take to help prepare for Mother Nature's worst.
There is no better time than the present to review your emergency plan. Emergencies can happen unexpectedly in communities just like ours, to people just like you. Tornado outbreaks, river floods, flash floods, historical earthquakes, and even water main breaks and power outages in U.S. cities affecting millions of people for days at a time.
Now is the time to think about the basics, things you will need in advance of an emergency, how you will communicate, what supplies you will need to keep in your home, car, or office. Use the list provided here to build an emergency supply kit to ensure your family is equipped and ready for any disaster type. The more you know about what to do in an emergency, the more confident and secure you will feel in your abilities to manage through a disaster.
Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan for it. Contact your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals for more information and tools to help you be "Ready for whatever happens."
PREPARATION FOR YOUR BUSINESS
How quickly your company can get back to business after a tornado, fire or flood often depends on today's emergency planning. Th e regular occurrence of natural disasters demonstrates the importance of being prepared for any emergency. While each situation is unique, your organization can be better prepared if you plan carefully, put emergency procedures in place, and practice for all kinds of emergencies. The following are common-sense measures business owners and managers can take to start getting ready. A commitment to begin planning today will help support your employees, customers, the community, the local economy, and the country. It also protects your business investment
and gives your company a better chance for survival.
Review the following questions to learn if your company is prepared.
Be Informed.
Do you know what kind of emergencies might affect your company? Do you know what you will do in an emergency?
Develop a Business Continuity Plan.
Do you know which staff, procedures, and equipment are necessary to keep operating? Do you have back-up plans for those operations? Do you know what you will do if your building or plant is not accessible? Do you know what you will do if a disaster impacts your suppliers? Are you ready for utility disruptions?
Prepare your Emergency Plan.
Do you have an evacuation and shelter-in-place plan? Do you have a plan to communicate with employees before, during, and after an incident? Do you have copies of buildings and site maps with utilities and emergency routes marked? Are your employees trained for medical emergencies?
Practice the Emergency Plan.
Have you practiced your plan recently? Do you practice and coordinate with other businesses in your building or industrial complex? Have you reviewed your plans in the last 12 months?
Review of Insurance Coverage.
Have you reviewed your insurance coverage recently to see if you're covered in a disaster?
Secure Your Facility and Equipment.
Have you secured all the ways people, products, and supplies get into your building? Have you conducted a room-by-room walk-through to determine what can be strapped down?
Improve Cyber Security.
Do you regularly install patches to your software? Have you installed a firewall on your computer? Do you regularly update your antivirus software?
Promote Family and Individual Preparedness.
Do you encourage employees to have a personal
emergency supply kit and a family communication plan?
If you answered "No" to any of these questions, visit ready.gov or call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County at (864)576-2430 and learn how to prepare your business better.
The SERVPRO Water Damage Experience
6/20/2022 (Permalink)
HOW WE PROCEED
Identify Source
We will check for the source of moisture in your building. The source must be stopped before any restoration or drying of the building can be successful.
- Stop the Source
- Check for contaminated water
Identify Type of Water
We will identify the category and classification of water damage to ensure we restore your property based on industry guidelines. The level of contamination of water will affect the specific restoration process we use.
Survey Extent of Damage & Inspect the Premises
We inspect and test the damaged area to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.
- Survey Damage
- Complete Safety Inspection
Furniture Moved and Blocked in Place
We move furniture and property contents and block items to help prevent rust or furniture stains on wet carpet
Emergency Water Extraction
We remove as much excess water as possible from affected areas
Carpet Pad
We check whether the carpet pad should be removed to save or protect the subfloor
- Inspect Carpet Pad
- Remove Carpet Pad if Needed
Treatments
Our process may utilize deodorizers as odor treatments or EPA registered disinfectants as antimicrobial treatments
- Apply Deodorizer or Disinfectant
Floor and Wall Inspection
We check the extent of wet flooring, subfloors and walls
- Inspect Floor
- Inspect Walls
Carpet
We examine carpet for damages and remove damaged carpet with guidance from you and the your adjuster
- Inspect Carpet
- Removal Carpet if Needed
Measure Temperature/Humidity for Drying Analysis
We monitor the temperature and humidity levels to make sure conditions are conducive for drying
- Measure Temperature
- Measure Humidity
Equipment
Drying equipment removes moisture and brings the relative humidity level back to normal. We monitor moisture in wet materials until the materials return to acceptable drying goals
- Utilize Drying Equipment
- Utilize Monitoring Equipment
Is Your Business Ready for Hurricane Season?
6/20/2022 (Permalink)
Hurricane season is approaching, and you may be wondering “What can my business do to prepare in order to protect our staff and property?” Well, fortunately here in the Upstate we do not experience the high winds the same way our friends on the coast do. But we still get the rain!
Last February you saw us mobilize to help Spartanburg residents affected by tornadoes. We will mobilize just the same to help Upstate businesses. We want to help you keep running! So, to help you before you may need us, here is a list of tips for preparation and reaction to hurricane storms.
- "Do we have an emergency plan outlined?" This is something every business should have, regardless of what it is you do. You need to have a plan mapped out for who to call, where emergency exits are located, and how to properly evacuate the building of any persons inside, if applicable. Know the best places to shelter from any possible flying debris, too, in case an evacuation is not possible.
- Back up your data. Make sure all your inventory, personnel, financial, and any other pertinent business information is backed up in case your business loses power. Use external hard drives or a recovery services vendor to ensure you have your data ready when you return to business.
- Protect your property. Trim trees around your building, clear the surrounding drainage facilities, clean the gutters attached to the building, too. Boarding up windows is effective, but not always a necessity in the Upstate.
- Operate remotely. If you know the storm is coming, and that it may be a bad one, have your staff work from home (if possible). If your business cannot operate remotely, declare early, do not put the safety of your customers or staff at risk. If you want, have a volunteer or two on-site during the storm to monitor how the structure is affected, make sure they are supplied with the necessary provisions.
- Expect the unexpected. You cannot be overprepared in a hurricane or tornado. Stock up on water, have an external battery on hand to charge your cell phone, and follow the above tips.
No one wants to lose their home or business, especially to a natural disaster, so we at SERVPRO Spartanburg County hope these tips help you plan for the worst.
If the worst does occur SERVPRO Spartanburg County is available 24/7. Call us at 864-576-2430!
What to do when Your Commercial Property is Underwater
6/13/2022 (Permalink)
We were on site less than two hours after the initial accident and had the next shift up and running as scheduled.
You've just had thousands of gallons of water flood your commercial space, production is down, and everyone is looking at you to get this fixed - NOW.
Lucky for you, you called the #1 restoration company in the Upstate of South Carolina! Here's what you can expect from our team:
- Upon arrival, we get to work immediately by extracting all standing water. In large warehouses, this means we pull the squeegies and water claws out.
- As our crew is extracting, our Crew Chief starts gathering measurements, moisture readings, and in some cases, starts deploying equipment.
- Once all the hard work is done, our Crew Chief and crew make sure to communicate effectively to ensure that everything is documented completely and properly.
Just because your facility is under water, that doesn't mean you have to be as well. Call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County, the Upstate's #1 emergency water response team for all your water damage needs and emergencies.
Understanding Your Mold Coverage
4/13/2022 (Permalink)
Understanding Your Mold Protection
You purchase insurance for your home in Spartanburg, South Carolina to protect it and save yourself the cost of repairing damages. Mold issues can lower property value and even make a home almost impossible to sell. Most homeowner’s policies, however, do not cover the services of mold remediation specialists. Even if your policy does offer some type of mold coverage, there is usually a pretty low cap to the amount of your potential payout. Since fungus growth can often be prevented, its presence tends to be seen as more the fault of the homeowner than as a circumstance beyond one’s control.
Mold Prevention
Even if you have mold insurance or a policy that includes mold remediation, you need to be able to prove that you have done everything to prevent the problem from occurring. You can protect your home from mold simply by following some key prevention tips:
- Check indoor water sources for leaks frequently.
- Fix problems you find immediately.
- Lower the humidity of your home.
- Watch for condensation or standing water.
- Ventilate bathrooms, laundry rooms and attics appropriately.
Guarding against excess water can inhibit fungus growth and thereby decrease the need for an insurance policy that covers it. Prevention is the best way to protect your home in Spartanburg from damage caused by mold.
Mold Coverage
An extensive mold problem can appear quickly, but there are usually extenuating circumstances that lead up to it, making it difficult to get insurance to cover the cost of remediation. Any problem that could have been foreseen or halted at its early stages is less likely to warrant an adjuster’s approval. If you believe that your mold issue is an exception, it is a good idea to enlist mold remediation technicians to back up your reasoning when the adjuster arrives.
No one likes to see fungus growth in their homes, nor does one like the bad news that it probably won’t be something their insurance covers. With proper prevention techniques or the expert opinion of a certified technician, you may be able to avoid the high out-of-pocket cost of mold remediation.
Why SERVPRO Uses the Latest and Best Technology
3/2/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg has the technology to get the job done!
The past few decades have seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of Spartanburg professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.
Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment
Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.
- An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
- Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation
Water Extraction Equipment
Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.
- Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water.
- Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.
Drying Equipment
Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from the ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.
- High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
- Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.
Odor Removal and Deodorization
Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.
- Air scrubbers
- Thermal foggers and deodorization agents
Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Antimicrobial Treatments
The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be needed to clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property.
- Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.
- Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.
For more information on the services we provide at SERVPRO of Spartanburg, call us at (864)576-2430.
4 Ways to Limit to Storm Damage
2/10/2022 (Permalink)
Storm Tips
There are several ways to limit the amount of damage a storm can do to your home at every stage. The first two tips assume that a storm is not imminent. The last two tips are for when a severe system is heading your way and has passed over. Taken together, these four storm tips can help you prevent and mitigate storm damage.
1. Trim Trees
The most important damage prevention tip is to trim trees. Precipitation adds extra weight and high winds can tear off heavy branches. Prune overhanging or dead branches on a regular basis.
2. Clear the Drainage System
Downspouts and gutters should collect water from your roof and carry it down and away from the foundation of your home. If the drainage system is blocked, water may collect and work its way under shingles to cause leaks. Water pouring straight down may lead to a flooded basement.
3. Protect Windows With Boards or Shutters
The best storm tip for when a severe storm is on the way is to cover windows with boards or shutters. If you live in a region with frequent storms, invest in storm shutters.
4. Cover Roof Leaks or Broken Windows
If a storm damages your home, take steps toward mitigation while you wait for roofers or restoration experts to arrive. Cover roof leaks with boards or tarps after the storm passes over. Make sure that water will not work its way under the covering. If you did not board up or shutter windows and they get broken, you can use the same materials to keep debris out of your home.
These four storm tips are intended to help you plan ahead for a storm and take measures to mitigate any damage that occurs. If your home in Spartanburg has sustained storm damage, schedule a consultation with a damage restoration service.
How To Address Kitchen Sink Leaks
2/10/2022 (Permalink)
What To Do If Your Kitchen Sink Is Leaking
It’s not uncommon for a homeowner in Spartanburg to contend with flooding issues or other water problems. One of the most likely places to find leaks is under the kitchen sink. These issues can develop over time and slowly occur without your immediate detection. They may also start suddenly due to a burst pipe or plumbing malfunction. If you can effectively respond to these situations, you can avoid disasters and costly cleanup.
Crucial Steps To Take
Once you realize you’ve got water in your home, you need to act appropriately and swiftly so you can minimize damage and remedy the problem. Here are your initial steps when you find a leak under your kitchen sink:
- Find the exact source of the problem
- Shut off the water flow to the sink.
- Call a professional plumber
Find the source
The faster you can determine where the leak originates, the better chance you have of avoiding major flooding. When it comes to leaks in the kitchen sink, there are a few usual suspects. The problem could reside at the valve or supply line, which will be under the sink near or against the wall. If the leak isn’t come from there, it could be a problem with the drain or with the faucet base.
Shut Off the Water
Once you’re confident you know where the leak is coming from, you need to turn off the water so you can put an end to the leaking. It should be simple enough to turn the shutoff knob, but if for some reason it won’t turn easily, you can shut off the main water line to your home.
Call a Pro
Luckily, if severe flooding requires total kitchen repair, you can call a licensed restoration crew to help. Before it gets to this point, you can avoid severe problems and contact a plumber to help you put an end to the leak and get your sink in proper working order once more.
Kitchen sink leaks are annoying, but they’re usually easy to address. Follow these steps and enlist the expertise of plumber, and you shouldn’t have to worry about flooding in your kitchen.
Are Home Mold Testing Kits Accurate?
2/10/2022 (Permalink)
Homeowners may consider using home mold testing kits due to the comparatively low cost of these tests relative to professional testing and analysis. There are several reasons why expert testing is more accurate and useful. Learn more about the shortcomings of DIY mold tests and why it is worth it to seek the services of a certified environmental hygienist or full-service mold restoration company in Spartanburg.
False Positives
Home mold tests vary insensitivity. Many tests are prone to return positive results for several reasons:
- Mold spores are everywhere
- Some kits are not properly calibrated
- Results may be ambiguous
A home mold testing kit may react to the presence of spores without factoring in whether microbial volatile organic compounds are present. These off-gases are released during the active growth cycle of fungi and indicate that mold is actively growing.
Inaccurate Species Identification
Most home mold tests are not precise enough to identify the species of mold. It is not possible to make a positive identification based on color. Black mold or Stachybotrys is actually dark green early in the growth cycle. As there are more than 100,000 known species of mold, lab testing is necessary to obtain an accurate identification.
No Expert Opinions
Environmental hygienists and mold specialists can offer informed opinions throughout the professional testing and remediation process. Insight into the following factors may be helpful:
- The location of mold growth
- Potential causes
- Whether a species of mold is toxigenic
All of these factors will impact the type of cleaning methods and equipment necessary to remediate mold damage. Remediation may be more affordable and successful if expert knowledge is available.
A home mold kit may be affordable in Spartanburg, but it is unlikely to be as accurate as professional testing. Homeowners should put the money they might spend on attempts at DIY mold tests toward expert mold testing and remediation that can fix the problem “Like it never even happened.”
Knowledge is Power When it Relates to Fire Prevention...
12/17/2021 (Permalink)
Here are a few common causes to look out for:
- Cooking
- 48% of all fires are caused by cooking.
- Remember to turn off source of heat.
- Have a fire extinguisher on hand.
- Heating
- Do not put anything close to the heater.
- Follow guidelines on how the heater can run.
- Electrical Fires
- Make sure fireplaces and lighting are up to code and are safe.
- Ensure alarms are replaced
- Smoking
- Never lay cigarettes, cigars, etc., down and forget about them.
- Smoke outside to avoid any potential fires related to dropping or forgetting about the item.
- Candles
- Never leave a candle unattended.
- All materials should remain 12 inches away from all candles.
These are just some tips in order to prevent fires. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County keep your safety a priority and we hope you and family values that as well. Other things to have in place is a route for you and your family if there ever was a fire. Also, everyone in your family should know the route and plan in place. IF there is a fire in your home, call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County.
Highly Trained Restoration Specialists
12/1/2021 (Permalink)
Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:
- IICRC Training
- Employee Certification Training
- Initial Franchise Training
- e-Learnings
- Continuing Education Classes
IICRC Training and Certification
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.
Employee Certification Training
The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:
- Crew Training
- Fire Restoration
- Water Restoration
- Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
Initial Franchise Training
A 15-day hands-on course at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. This course is primarily for new Franchise owners and covers many restoration topics:
- Fire Restoration
- Water Restoration
- Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
- Mold Mitigation
e-Learnings
All of our staff have access to web-based training. This voluntary program is designed to be an ongoing, self-paced coaching series for a Franchise's employees. Video presentations and support materials are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. This keeps our technicians and office staff up to speed on industry standards and the professional quality you expect.
Continuing Education Classes
SERVPRO of South Frisco / The Colony and SERVPRO of North Frisco / Prosper / Celina, SERVPRO of Aubrey / Little Elm offers both credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals, and Franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation. Courses include:
- Water Damage Restoration
- Fire Damage Restoration
- Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
- Restorative Drying for Loss Control
- Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (non-credit course)
Advanced Technology and Techniques
11/12/2021 (Permalink)
The past few decades has seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of Tallahassee Professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.
Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment
Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure, and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.
- An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
- Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation
Water Extraction Equipment
Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.
- Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water.
- Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.
Drying Equipment
Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.
- High-speed air movers causes moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
- Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.
Odor Removal and Deodorization
Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.
- Air scrubbers
- Thermal foggers and deodorization agents
Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Anti-Microbial Treatments
The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be needed to clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property.
- Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.
- Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.
Faster to Any Disaster!
11/10/2021 (Permalink)
24 Hour Emergency Service
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7: (864)576-2430
Faster to Any Size Emergency
In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
- Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
- Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
- Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
- Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
- Drywall begins to swell and break down.
- Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
- Furniture begins to swell and crack.
- Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
- A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
- Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
- Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
- Metal begins to rust and corrode.
- Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
- Paint begins to blister.
- Wood flooring swells and warps.
- Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
- Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
- Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
Got Fire Damage? Call the Pro's at SERVPRO
11/1/2021 (Permalink)
A fire can strike for any number of reasons, including after one of the many storms that hit our area. Homes, commercial properties and even vehicles can all be at risk and may require the services of a professional remediation company like SERVPRO of Spartanburg County.
While it may be tempting to roll up your sleeves and begin the clean-up process yourself, there are some specific reasons why hiring a professional service provider is a much better idea:
- We're trained to handle the danger – Fire cleanup can be a very dangerous process. Not only can there be hazards like broken glass and weakened support structures, there may also be toxic chemicals and mold present. A professional remediation company is trained to identify these kinds of hazards and take the proper steps to both avoid and address them.
- We understand the regulations involved – There are very specific fire regulations in Spartanburg County and as a professional remediation company, SERVPRO is up to date on those regulations and knows exactly what steps to take to ensure that your property is adhering to them.
- We are trained to restore a wide range of items – Fire damage can affect any number of surfaces in your home, from walls and floors to fabrics and fibers. With our comprehensive training in fire damage remediation, we know what it takes to address damage to your home and belongings and have the necessary equipment and techniques to properly address it.
Commercial Property Damage Heroes
11/1/2021 (Permalink)
At SERVPRO community is important to us and that’s why we go the extra mile to ensure that every business in Spartanburg has restoration services they can count on. We keep up our training and employ the best possible techniques and equipment to provide quality restoration for all commercial properties, from large companies to small businesses.
With the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) certification our technicians have the training to handle water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning and other cleaning and restoration techniques.
We can specifically address the removal of sewage and biohazards, treat fabrics and upholstery including drapes and carpets, and remove any signs of vandalism on your property and we’ll pay special attention to your HVAC system and air ducts to prevent mold infestation.
Because being clean has taken on a whole new meaning these days, we’ve also instituted the “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned” program which is designed specifically to provide deep cleaning that prevents the spread of viral pathogens and other hazardous agents. With the “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned” shield affixed to your building, customers, visitors and employees will all be able to enter your property with confidence knowing that it is completely safe.
When disaster strikes your business, don’t settle for second best. Call on the company that many Spartanburg area businesses have come to count on for all of their restoration needs. With SERVPRO you’ll know that you’re in good hands and that’s a feeling that you can’t get anywhere else.
Large Loss Response in Spartanburg County
11/1/2021 (Permalink)
Commercial losses require an experienced team with large capacity. At SERVPRO of Spartanburg that is exactly what we offer to all of our commercial clients.
As a SERVPRO franchise, we have strategically taken a concerted effort to build a franchise that can not only provide a quality service to our residential clients; but also to our commercial clients.
In working with our commercial clients we enter into a heightened sense of checks and balances to ensure that we provide only the top notch level of service. On each of our commercial losses, not only do we provide extreme level of manpower, we also bring years of experience to every loss.
Every commercial client can rest assured that we will bring the best of the best to respond and restore your property.
If your property has experienced the unfortunate event of a fire or water damage, we are always here to help!
Dryer Vent Fire Prevention
10/12/2021 (Permalink)
Fire happened due to clogged dryer vent line
Did you know that dryer vent fires are the second leading cause of residential fires in the nation? If you’re not regularly servicing your dryer, you run the risk of falling victim to a dryer vent fire. Here are some things to keep in mind to ensure that your dryer keeps the heat inside:
- Use a professional installer
- Regularly service your equipment
- Keep the surrounding area free of flammable materials
- Clean the lint filter before and after each load of laundry
- Use only rigid or flexible metal venting material
- Ensure air exhaust vent pipe is unrestricted
- Do no overload
- Inspect Gas Lines
- Use the correct plug and outlet
- Never run the dryer when you leave home or are sleeping.
While these steps are simple to carry out, they are equally crucial in preventing a dryer fire. If you find yourself dealing with the heat outside of the dryer, call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County (864) 576-2430 for our fire and smoke damage restoration services. We’d be glad to help!
Quick Flood Facts
10/8/2021 (Permalink)
There is always a potential for flood damage, no matter where you live. According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the United States every year than any other weather-related disaster. The American Red Cross offers these flood safety tips:
-Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
-If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
-Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County. Even minor floods have the potential to cause significant damage. We are faster to ANY size disaster. Let us help you get your life back in order.
Storm Damage
10/7/2021 (Permalink)
It's hard to know what kind of storms will roll in year-round. Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. Natural disasters like storms can put pressure on a city's infrastructure and sewage system. In severe cases, this pressure can cause systems to fail and result in flash flooding or road overflow. SERVPRO of Spartanburg operates a 24-hour emergency call line alongside a rapid response unit to help you should you experience property flooding or need emergency repair.
As a standard, we offer our community emergency board-ups as well as industrial-scale water removal equipment like gas-powered pumps and truck-mounted extraction units. We promise to arrange a service within one hour of your call and arrive onsite within just four. As always, you can rely on us to provide qualified technicians to help cleanup and restore your home in an emergency. If you need help with mold remediation after you experience storm damage, we’ll be there to help!
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Faster to Any Size Disaster
- Highly Trained Water Restoration Technicians
- A Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (864) 576-2430
Commercial Vandalism: 3 Do's and Don'ts to Consider Before SERVPRO Arrives
10/7/2021 (Permalink)
Vandalized apartment cleanup at a multi-family property
Vandalism is a damage type that is often over-looked by the typical property owner. This makes it increasingly more difficult to deal with when your commercial building/property is spray painted or damaged. Often attempting to deal with vandalism yourself results in further damage to the exterior of your building. To avoid making any additional damage, SERVPRO of Spartanburg County has a list of things to do (and what NOT to do) until SERVPRO arrives:
DO:
- Hose or wash egg damage from the building exterior as soon as possible.
- Vacuum glass particles from carpet and upholstery to avoid any injuries.
- Save containers which could reveal the ingredients of spilled inks, cosmetics, and paints so that SERVPRO knows exactly what products to use.
DON'T
- Attempt to remove ink, paint, or cosmetic stains yourself. Stain manipulation could spread or push stain makeup deeper into the affected material.
- Operate damaged lamps, electronics, or appliances.
- Discard furniture wood-chips, broken pieces from porcelain, furniture, or art objects.
Bathroom Safety
10/5/2021 (Permalink)
If you have little ones chances are you have or will experience the not so fun joy of a toilet overflowing. With little ones it is usually rubber duckies and whatever item looks fun for them to see going down the drain. If caught quickly this is typically a quick fix but if left unattended a toilet can overflow out of the bowl and to your beautiful bathroom floors. It may seem minor but this could lead to water damage, mold, and possible bio hazard (sewage water). If this happens here are a few steps if you feel it safe you can take on your own:
- Confirm what is actually clogging the toilet (toys, toilet paper etc.)
- Scoop the water out of the bowl and clean up spillage
- Use a plunger
- Use an auger
- Purchase a de-clogger
- Stop water from flowing into the toilet bowl
- Call a professional (if the previous steps do not work you can always call a professional to fix the clog and repair any damage caused)
- As always, call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County with any questions at (864) 576-2430! We are here to help.
Water Leak Tips
10/5/2021 (Permalink)
Water leaks are subtle and may go unnoticed until they lead to a larger water damage or water bill! These tips provided by the Water Damage Defense website will help you to get a handle on your water leaks before they turn into a big mess. Water trapped behind walls or paneling make it an ideal place for mold growth.
- Water Bill Checks
Make sure to monitor your water bills. If you notice the bill has a sudden increase, there is a good chance there may be slow leak and to ask your local water company to take a look.
- Check Your Meter
Test out your home water usage and meter accuracy. Check your meter and try not using the water in your home for two hours. After the two hours see if the meter has changed this is another indicator of a leak.
- Food Dye Trick
To check your toilet for leaks, put a drop of food dye in the tank. If you see that the colored water is in the toilet bowl in under 15 minutes, you probably have a leak. (Make sure you flush your toilet a few times after doing this, as to not stain your toilet)
- Fix Leaks and Drips Quickly
As soon as you see a leak or drip, make sure you fix it as soon as possible. These are usually cheap fixes if you catch them at the beginning. Always dry as much as possible to mitigate further damages.
- Use Water Leak Alarms
Use water leak alarms as well as automatic water shutoff systems to make sure you catch leaks quickly.
Following these tips and tricks can help you catch sneaky leaks before they become a bigger issue. Water leak alarms average in price as low as 9.00 – and as high as 200.00.
Planning for Water Damage Control: What You Need To Know
10/5/2021 (Permalink)
What You Should Know About Water Damage Restoration Planning
When homeowners find themselves faced with water from a flood or bursting pipes, they often want to know how long the restoration efforts will take. The answer depends on the extent of the damage, the type of water to invade the home and materials used throughout the affected area. A Spartanburg County water restoration team may tell homeowners to expect the process to take anywhere from two to three days, but to not be surprised if it takes as many as seven. Some factors that affect the time it takes to dry out a home include:
- The type of water to flood the home
- The size of the area affected
- The building materials affected
Type of Water
Clean water is easier to clean up than black water, as the former doesn’t require special Hazmat materials or equipment. If your problems stem from bursting pipes, the solution may be as simple as fixing the pipes and drying out the area. If you do so within 24 to 48 hours, you can prevent mold and bacteria growth as well.
Size of Affected Area
The type of water isn’t the only factor to affect restoration times. The size of area plays a huge part as well. If the size of the affected area is relatively small, less than ten square feet, restoration efforts can take as little as two days, and you may even be able to perform them yourself. However, if your entire ground floor is flooded, it could take several days of professional efforts.
Materials Impacted
If it is just your carpet that is affected, restoration efforts shouldn’t require much of your time at all. However, if your drywall, insulation and/or framing are impacted, you may need to do more than fix a broken pipe. Restoration efforts in the latter instance could take as long as 10 days or more.
Every situation is different, and the water damage caused by bursting pipes could be far more severe than damage from, say, a leaking pipe. Talk to your local SERVPRO of Spartanburg water damage restoration team to learn more about what to expect.
Fire Damage Restoration Tips: What to Do During and After Grease Fires
10/5/2021 (Permalink)
Dealing with a cooking fire is always a stressful experience. Above all, try to keep calm and remember these dos and don’ts for dealing with a grease fire:
1. Don’t Use Water on a Grease Fire
Unlike most fires, pouring water on a grease fire will make things worse. Instead of extinguishing the flame, the water will scatter the burning oil, spreading the fire.
2. Don’t Pour Flour or Sugar on Grease Fires
Flour and sugar are flammable, and pouring either on a grease fire only fuels the flames.
3. Don’t Use a Water-Based Extinguisher
Every kitchen needs a fire extinguisher, but not just any extinguisher. A water-based fire extinguisher will have the same effect as pouring water on a grease fire.
4. Don’t Carry the Fire Outside
Carrying a pan with a grease fire outside is extremely dangerous. The burning grease may spill, injuring the carrier or spreading the fire to other areas of the home.
How to Correctly Deal with a Grease Fire
1. Switch Off the Stove
Immediately turn off the stove. If the controls are inaccessible due to the flames, turn off your main gas or power supply.
2. Use a Metal Lid
Putting a lid over a flaming pan will starve it of oxygen and extinguish the fire. If a metal lid isn’t available, a metal baking sheet will suffice. The lid must completely cover the flames, or they may still have access to oxygen.
Make sure to leave the lid on for at least a couple of minutes to ensure the flames are out. Glass or plastic lids are not suitable substitutes for putting out a cooking fire.
3. Douse the Flames with Salt or Baking Soda
Pouring salt or baking soda on a flame will smother it. The amount of baking soda or salt needed will depend on the size of the flame. Do not use baking powder or flour in place of baking soda.
4. Grab a Class B Flame Extinguisher
An Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) extinguisher that shoots foam or a class B dry fire extinguisher is best for putting out a grease fire. When using the extinguisher, stand back to prevent being hit by hot grease or flames.
When Do You Need a Professional?
If baking soda or a class B chemical fire extinguisher fails to fire, immediately go outside and call the fire department. Once the fire is out and the fire department grants permission to enter the building, call SERVPRO of Spartanburg to begin the clean-up process.
The fire restoration process generally has a few stages:
- Inspection and damage assessment
- Steps to prevent further damage (tarping any exterior holes, for example)
- Addressing any water left behind by suppression efforts
- Removal of any smoke or soot from walls and surfaces
- Cleaning, repair, and restoration
While waiting for the fire restoration company to arrive, avoid the area of the fire as that may spread soot to other areas. Don’t eat any food from the kitchen and leave the power off. Remember to call your insurance company to begin the claims process.
How to Prevent Grease Fires
While it’s crucial to know how to handle a grease fire, knowing how to prevent them is also helpful.
- Cook with appropriate utensils
- Never leaving the stove unattended
- Fry with cooking oils that have a high smoke point, such as canola, peanut, sesame, or sunflower oil
- Remove moisture from food before placing it in hot oil
- Have an easily accessible class B fire extinguisher in the kitchen
About SERVPRO
For clean-up after a grease fire in Spartanburg, contact SERVPRO. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is a leading provider of fire, water, and storm restoration services, as well as mold remediation and commercial cleaning.
Hurricane & Storm Q&A 2021
10/5/2021 (Permalink)
Are you prepared in the event of a major storm event? All you have to do is call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
Q: When does hurricane season begin and end?
A: Hurricane season for the 2021 season began on Saturday, May 22nd, and ends on Tuesday, November 30th.
Q: What are the most and least active months for hurricane season?
A: The least active month is typically May, as the season is just beginning. The most active month is September.
Q: How many hurricanes are predicted for the 2021 season?
A: According to the NOAA, between 3-5 major hurricanes are projected to occur, with an estimated ceiling of 10.
Q: Who do I call if a hurricane impacts my area with significant storm damage?
A: SERVPRO of Spartanburg County, of course! The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard, or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike in or around Spartanburg County. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is prepared for the unpredictable. If you or anyone you know experience damage form a hurricane or major storm, do not hesitate to reach out to your local neighbors here at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County.
One-Stop Shop for the Storm: SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
10/5/2021 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County to the rescue after a major storm impacts your area
Storm damage in South Carolina homes is a common situation that our SERVPRO professionals must address. South Carolina is susceptible to severe storms from the Atlantic Ocean and potentially even the Gulf of Mexico. Properties in the upstate must be prepared for run-ins with hurricanes, tropical storms, tornadoes, damaging winds, and other potentially harmful conditions. Our ability to handle these situations is due to our commitment to the training and growth of our specialists, ensuring that each loss occurred is handled by technicians that can:
- Extract and properly dry floodwater (WRT – Water Restoration Technician)
• Clean contaminated areas where they exist (Biohazard Cleaning)
• Implement air movers and dehumidifiers to maximize efficient drying solutions (ASD – Applied Structural Drying)
• Prevent microbial growth or address present colonization (AMRT – Applied Microbial Remediation Technician)
Our disaster relief team is an industry leader in the upstate of South Carolina due to our top-tier equipment that gets the job done quickly and correctly. We keep storm trucks stocked with a deep inventory of recovery and mitigation tools, including submersible pumps, engine-driven trash pumps, power washers, air movers, and dehumidifiers.
Our capabilities offer a full-service approach amid a crisis so that our customers do not have to find secondary contractors to handle other aspects of their recovery. We have the skilled professionals to perform board-up and tarping services for your residence amid flood penetration. We can also oversee full-scale reconstruction once mitigation completes – making SERVPRO of Spartanburg County your one-stop shop for all storm damage needs.
Post-Fire Care: Damage AFTER the Fire
10/5/2021 (Permalink)
Soot damage on the wall and contents from a toaster fire
Fire Damage
Fire damage is caused by the actual fire. This can include damage to the structure of the property. Often materials are melted and can ignite other materials with this type of damage.
Fire damage can also produce different toxins, causing explosions or acting as an accelerant spreading the flames and causing additional damage.
Water Damage
Water damage is mostly always present with fire damage because the flames must be extinguished. Often the damage caused by the sprinklers in a building is much more significant than the actual fire damage itself.
Smoke Damage
Soot from a fire can be found in every room of a building that has been severely burned - even those rooms that the flames did not touch. Often homeowner's belongings, furniture, clothes in drawers, important documents, paintings, and more contents are completely covered in black soot. Some items are not salvageable…and the items that are salvageable have to be properly cleaned in a timely manner, or the soot can permanently destroy them.
Mold Damage
After experiencing a house fire, the water damage must be professionally handled, because when it is not properly dried mold can grow. Mold is a toxin that can cause numerous potential health problems for those living in the property. It is important to make sure the water damage is taken care of by professionals like those at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County.
Fire Prevention Tips for the Workplace
10/5/2021 (Permalink)
Fire damage resulting from a faulty space heater
Call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County at 864-576-2430!
With the changing of the seasons comes cooler weather, and for most of us, it is a welcome change. Who doesn’t love snuggling up before a warm fire at this time of year? We’re pulling out sweaters, fluffy blankets, and other cozy garb to stay toasty, and gearing up for bonfires (don’t forget the smores!) In addition to these warmth necessities, you will most likely pull out a space heater or two.
In your place of business, you will be taking those extra steps to make sure your staff is comfortable during the colder months, as well. Let’s make sure they stay fire safe! Here are some winter fire hazards to be aware of:
- Most businesses won’t be using a fireplace to warm their interiors, but those who work in the outdoors may build fires on the job site to keep hands and toes functional. Make sure your crew is mindful to use metal receptacles for bonfires, and that they place them far away from flammable materials such as wood and linens. If a wind comes up, things could get dangerous fast.
- In your offices, the use of space heaters will be helpful. Inspect every unit used to make sure that cords and plugs are in good working condition. Another major preventative measure is enforcing a policy to ensure they are never left running when the room is unoccupied or when the workday is over. Designate someone to oversee this such as an office manager; they should be the person who is normally last out the door. If the position doesn’t exist yet, take it upon yourself.
- Employ a landscape company to remove leaves and dead vegetation from your property. In the event of a fire in your building, space that is cleared from the foundation and exterior walls will help firefighters to gain access as well as prevent a fire from spreading further.
- When repairing or renovating your offices or outbuildings, use fire-resistant materials whenever possible. Flooring, furniture, and paint can all be produced or treated after purchase to make them more fire-safe.
The team here at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is always available to help you keep your business fire safe. In the event of damages sustained from fire or water, we have the experience and know-how to complete a cleanup project quickly and efficiently, getting you back to work as soon as possible.
Fire Prevention Week 2021 Is Here Spartanburg
10/1/2021 (Permalink)
This local business chose SERPVRO of Spartanburg County to lead them through the fire and back into business
Fire Prevention Week Is Here - Sunday, October 3rd, through Saturday, October 9th is officially Fire Prevention Week!
This year’s theme is “Learn the sound of fire safety"!” The theme grew out of the increased attention to the varying alarm notifications being heard during remote learning and work.
A few areas to also give some time discussing with family members are:
- Smoke alarms at home
- Home fire sprinklers
- Home safety for people with disability
- Smoke alarms for people who are deaf or hard of hearing
- Heating safety
- Cooking safety
There are some safety tip sheets that you can download by going here: NFPA.org
We hope you never have to go through the unfortunate experience of fire damage to your personal or business property. However, if you must go through this experience, it's imperative that you choose a local, reputable and proven Restoration provider! Do your research and ask many questions. SERVPRO of Spartanburg takes pride in being at your side during your time of need. Give us a call (864)576-2430
Commercial Cleaning You Can Count On
10/1/2021 (Permalink)
Did you know that roughly half of our jobs here in Spartanburg are at commercial properties? Wondering how SERVPRO could help you and your business?
Take a look at some of our commercial standard service offerings below.
24 HOUR EMERGENCY RESPONSE SERVICES
- Catastrophic Storm Response
WATER DAMAGE SERVICES
- Water Removal and Dehumidification
- Mold Mitigation and Remediation
- Building Stabilization and Climate Control
FIRE DAMAGE SERVICES
- Smoke and Soot Cleanup
- Pretesting (For Best Cleaning Methods)
BIOREMEDIATION & CRIME SCENE SERVICES
- Vandalism Cleanup
FACILITIES CLEANING & RESTORATION
- Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning
- Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds
- Ceiling, Walls and Hard Floors
- Odor Identification and Deodorization
- Post Construction Cleanup and Demolition
- Reconstruction and Construction Drying
- Specialized Media Blasting
CONTENTS CLEANING & RESTORATION
- Move Outs and Contents Restoration
- Electronics/Equipment Cleaning & Restoration
- Art and Document Restoration
- Data Recovery
- Contents Claim Inventory Service
- Cargo Recovery (Trucking Industry)
TOTAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT
- IICRC Certified
- Mobile Command Centers
- Electronic File Documentation
- Online Data Reporting
- Mitigation Performance Validation
INVOICING
- Detailed Estimates and Digital Pictures
- Expense Reporting
Our Non-Emergency Commercial Capabilities
9/30/2021 (Permalink)
This manufacturing facility contacted us to clean the dust and debris caused by years of build-up from their manufacturing process.
SERVPRO is known as a nation-wide industry leader in emergency water and fire damage mitigation and remediation. Our dedication to our “as fast as possible” response time paired with our extensive access to equipment, resources, and industry-certified technicians makes SERVPRO your local, dependable restoration company – 24/7/365. Did you know, however, that SERVPRO offers solutions far-reaching beyond our “emergency only” capabilities? Here are some highlighted services SERVPRO of Spartanburg County has to offer for your commercial facility.
- Warehouse Cleaning Solutions – Does your commercial facility produce a lot of waste or undesirable byproducts from production such as dust, debris, adhesives, etc.? SERVPRO has a solution to remedy that. Over the years, dust and debris can build up on the ceilings, walls, rafters, and any nook or cranny you can think of. This can build up over time and lead to filthy work conditions, safety issues for employees, poor interior air quality, and even lower morale for workers. Our capabilities and solutions allow us to deep clean your manufacturing facility to keep air quality safe for workers, as well as ensure your facilities stay neat so you can produce a clean and productive environment. From ceiling to floor, no matter the size or layout of your facility – SERVPRO of Spartanburg County will develop a solution to keep your facilities SERVPRO Clean.
- Emergency Ready Profiles (ERP’s) – Is your commercial facility prepared in the event of a water, fire, storm, or other unforeseen emergency? Is there a plan or process in place that is readily accessible for your employees to refer to in case the leader in charge is unavailable? SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Profile (a.k.a. ERP) is a FREE resource developed by your local SERVPRO Marketing Representative that highlights all your critical emergency shutoffs and contacts. It also helps SERVPRO better understand your facility in the event that you need us on-site for emergency services, such as who is the on-site contact, who needs to authorize services, staircase and elevator access locations, and several others. For more info about our ERP’s, please contact Will Cater at (864) 266-2417 to set up a complimentary lunch-and-learn to learn more about our process.
- Mold Remediation – Is there a musty odor lingering around your facility? Is there questionable growth on your walls, air vents, furniture, or elsewhere that looks alarming? SERVPRO is also an industry leader in mold remediation. If you’ve had mold growth from a previous water damage, condensation from an overactive HVAC unit, or from your company’s production processes, contact SERVPRO of Spartanburg County for a FREE mold remediation assessment. For more of our mold remediation blogs, click the following link to direct you to mold-specific blogs. https://www.SERVPROspartanburgcounty.com/blog/mold-removal-remediation
This is just a portion of the extensive list of non-emergency services SERVPRO of Spartanburg County has to offer for anyone in the commercial sector. You can find more commercial blogs here. https://www.SERVPROspartanburgcounty.com/blog/commercial
To schedule a FREE inspection with our commercial account representative, please contact Will Cater at (864) 266-2417 or via email at wcater@SERVPRO-spartanburg.com.
Prepare Today for Water Damage
9/7/2021 (Permalink)
If you know you live in an area prone to flooding, or you live in a highlighted area on FEMA’s flood map, then it pays to be prepared early.
The water from a flood comes in fast and furiously, it can destroy your whole neighborhood within a matter of hours.
Here are a few tips to get your preparations started before it is too late:
- Get familiar with evacuation routes and procedures.
- Have a plan already in place for when a flood threatens your area.
- If you get surprised by the flood and can not evacuate, make sure you have a disaster kit available and up to date.
- Be aware of your flood insurance policy and keep extra copies and any phone numbers and policy numbers in a waterproof bag just in case.
Once the water resides, call SERVPRO for any water damage repairs, we have been helping people just like you for decades and we know what it takes to put the pieces back together!
We Are Pathogen Cleaning Experts, Too!
4/20/2021 (Permalink)
It has been more than a year since the start of a global pandemic and things have not, and likely will not, return to normal for most people.
In response to the need for sanitized workspaces in facilities that remained open during the quarantine we rolled out our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program to help businesses protect their employees and clients. SERVPRO already has 50 years of experience and expertise in biohazard decontamination, pathogen decontamination was a logical step to take in providing our customers with another service they need. Now SERVPRO has provided more than 35,000 pathogen cleanings, nationwide, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. In our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program we start by consulting with your business to identify your unique needs. Then we provide the expert, deep cleaning to meet those needs, using EPA-approved, hospital-grade cleaning solutions and adhere to CDC standards. After cleaning we give you a shield to display on your front window to let everyone know your business has been certifiably cleaned.
Our cleaning services are not limited to businesses nor to COVID-19. We are here to help, even if it is a case of the flu in your home!
Call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County today at 864-576-2430 and we will decontaminate your home or business!
We've Got the Credentials
3/9/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is dedicated to restoring both the property and the lives of the customers we serve. Our number one goal is returning damaged property and items to preloss condition and helping our customers regain their sense of safety and control in their lives.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is IICRC certified. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification sets the standards for the restoration industry. Our technicians receive IICRC training to help our customers in situations ranging from storm and water damage to mold and fire restoration.
Your insurance provider trusts us, too! In the event of an emergency contacting your insurer is part of our response protocols. Within an hour of calling SERVPRO a certified technician will be in contact with you to get information about the loss to your property. Within four hours a team will arrive, trained and equipped, to handle your situation. Our technicians will be taking photos and notes of every step along the way so that we can provide your insurance adjuster with a verbal briefing within eight hours of the loss you experienced.
When disaster strikes, call our experts at SERVPRO!
How to Prepare for an Upstate Storm
2/10/2021 (Permalink)
Here in the Upstate we can count on having unpredictable weather, from a warm sunny day in December to tornadoes in February. But when disaster strikes SERVPRO is here for you! We are only a phone call away to help you pick up the pieces, however, you might want to know how to prepare for the worst while you hope for the best. We can help with that, too!
- Make sure your gutters are cleaned out. Gutters full of leaves and debris can contribute to water leaking into your home or business.
- Inspect your roof; checking for loose or missing shingles can also prevent moisture from getting into your property.
- Check the trees near your home or business to ensure none are too weak to stand up to storm winds and therefore will not fall onto and structures.
- Be prepared in case of loss of power
- Get a generator to maintain power to your major appliances or for your furnace
- Place a thermometer in your refrigerator and freezer, perishable foods need to maintain a temperature below 40 degree.
We hope this guide will serve you well, but SERVPRO will have a team standing by 24/7 for any cleaning or restoration needs! Call us at 864-579-2430!
Water Damage Happened, What Now?
2/10/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County specializes in water damage and restoration. Whether it is your home or your business, dealing with water damage can be stressful. Call SERVPRO then contact your insurance company. We will dispatch skilled technicians to your location and start the restoration process and document everything for your insurer. To reduce some of the stress of the trying situation, here are some suggestions for reducing additional damage while you wait for us to arrive:
- If the water source is not weather-related, shut off the water source to your property. This reduces the volume of water to be removed.
- Go ahead and remove excess water by mopping, blotting, or squeegee to prevent the water from spreading further.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs, this will help save your furniture from further damage as well as prevent stains on the flooring.
- Remove colored rugs from wet carpet so that the dyes do not bleed into each other, leaving stains.
- Remove books, magazines, and colored items from carpets. This too will prevent dyes from spreading to other textiles.
Upon our arrival, we will handle everything else, whether if it is just drying, drying and cleaning, or a more extensive restoration project.
Call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County and we’ll make it “Like it never even happened.” 864-576-2430
Why We Are Your Top Choice
2/10/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO is backed by over 53 years of residential and commercial restoration experience. SERVPRO Industries, Inc. is an IICRC-approved school to help ensure our training meets and exceeds accepted industry standards That means our customers get the right help from the start. Our customers are our top priority.
We have teams ready to help you 24/7. We know we are helping you on your worst day, so we will help you not only with the damage, but also in the documentation process for your insurance provider. We have earned the trust of the insurance industry by serving thousands of their policy holders and clients with respect and integrity. The more we restore, the less that needs to be replaced. This helps our clients save millions of dollars each year. That helps lower your insurance rates, too!
With SERVPRO the results will be “Like it never even happened.” 864-576-2430
Proactive Cleaning
12/1/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need
During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.
Specialized Training
We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.
The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:
· Kitchen/Food Areas
· Bathrooms
· Schools/Classrooms
· Offices
· Retail Spaces
· Water Fountains
· Shelving/Racks
· Sales Counters
· Carpets and Rugs
· Stair Handrails
· Elevator Cars
· Playground Equipment
· Fitness Equipment
Specialized Products
The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.
Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning!
If your home or business needs deep cleaning services or fogging , call the experts today – SERVPRO of Spartanburg - 864-576-2430
What Should be Expected When you Contact Us?
11/12/2020 (Permalink)
First and foremost, expect our 24-hour availability! Whether you are calling day or night, weekday or weekends, and even during the holidays, you can always expect to speak with a real person about the emergency you are experiencing. SERVPRO of Spartanburg is the top choice for many insurance agencies.
Here is what you can expect during the first several hours after contacting SERVPRO of Spartanburg:
Quick Response - When a building has been damaged, the response time is an important factor in how time-consuming and how costly restoration will be. SERVPRO is always open, so you can expect to hear back within an hour after you have contacted them about the emergency. Once you have provided them with the necessary information, we will begin preparing to address the needs of your client.
Arrive Time - Our technicians can be on-site to begin the restoration process within four hours. This fast response can make the difference if your home or commercial business has suffered a great deal of damage. Beginning the process more quickly will result in less damage overall which can end up costing the insurance agency less money.
Inspection/Verbal Briefing - Once the damage restoration specialists have arrived, they can inspect the home to determine the extent of the damage and decide on the best course of action moving forward. Our team has the ability to let you know in the emergency is claim worthy or not as well. They will provide a verbal briefing so that you are aware of what will happen next. Our team's quick 24-hour response will allow us to begin mitigation as soon as possible to prevent any further damage before we begin work on necessary repairs.
Always feel free to give us a call at (864) 576-2430!
How Does SERVPRO Dry My Home After Flooding?
11/10/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Will Work Hard To Reclaim Your Home From Flood Damage.
Cleanup may seem difficult after floods strike your home in Spartanburg. Flood water removal is nearly impossible without the proper equipment, and water damage mitigation can be just as tough to handle. That is why it is best to contact professionals from SERVPRO who have plenty of experience dealing with these types of situations.
How Can SERVPRO Dry My Home?
SERVPRO has extensive experience dealing with flood damage in Spartanburg homes. Our teams arrived equipped with the right tools and training to dry your home. First, we can pump the water out of your home using truck-mounted wet vacs, portable wet vacs, or submersible pumps. Once the water is pumped out, we can use the following equipment to finish the drying process:
Air movers to dry carpeting, wall cavities, and beneath cabinets.
Wall Cavity Ventilation System to more efficiently direct air into wall cavities.
Venting Box Fan (Axial Fans) to move large volumes of air. These fans are more powerful than air movers and can vent odors out of rooms or can spread deodorizing fogs.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg is here if you are in immediate need of flood damage mitigation. Our teams are on standby 24/7, so call us at (864) 576-2430 to begin the restoration process.
Protecting Your Commercial Plumbing
10/30/2020 (Permalink)
The temperatures are dropping, the leaves are falling, but that doesn't mean your business shouldn't be prepared! Low temperatures increases the chance of pipes freezing or cracking, which can ultimately lead to an unwanted situation.
Pipe Bursting
It is important to check your pipes in your business to prevent any problems. As the days get colder, especially overnight, you are running the risk of your pipes freezing over which can cause crack and leaks. This can happen no mater the material. Plastic, copper, or steel can freeze which will make the pipes crack or even burst. A pipe burst can let go around 200 gallons in just one day which will cause major water damage to your commercial building.
Prevention
If you are expecting freezing temperatures, be one step ahead and close the water supply lines and washer connections. To circulate heat to the hidden pipes underneath all sinks, make sure to leave those cabinets open to allow the heat in your home help prevent those pipes from freezing. For smaller sinks, another good tip is to leave a small drip overnight.
If your pipe bursts, you should call SERVPRO immediately. We have staff on-call 24/7 and are always ready to help. In water damages, time is literally money. The faster we can get out to the job, the more money you will save!
Call Today 864-431-9200
Putting Out a Fire Can Be Worse Than The Fire Itself
10/30/2020 (Permalink)
If you are in the unfortunate situation where you have a fire in your home or business, SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is always here to help. No matter how big or small the fire is, SERVPRO has highly trained technicians to make your home look as good as new. Below are some tips until we arrive.
- Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
- Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
- Coat chrome faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpets.
- Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
- Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
- Do not clean any electrical equipment.
- Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor.
As a reminder, SERVPRO of Spartanburg is available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year to help you regain control quickly!
Give us a call at 864-576-2430
From Carpets to Catastrophes- For All Your Commercial Cleaning Needs
10/30/2020 (Permalink)
When you need it done right and done fast, call SERVPRO of Spartanburg for all your commercial cleaning needs! Did you know when your hire SERVPRO Professionals for maintenance cleaning, you get around-the-clock restoration services built in with you in mind? Quality cleaning and quick response - that's the SERVPRO way. Below are examples of what SERVPRO of Spartanburg can do for you!
- Fire, smoke and soot cleanup and restoration
- Water removal and dehumidification
- Crime scene, biohazard and vandalism cleanup
- Mold mitigation and remediation
- Contents claim inventory service
- Air duct and HVAC cleaning
- Carpet and hard floor cleaning and care
- Stain removal, stain resistant applications
- Odor identification and deodorization
- Upholstery and drapes: wet or dry cleaning methods
SERVPRO of Spartanburg is committed to providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce business interruptions and recovery costs. We can provide:
- Over 50 years of experience as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider.
- Quick response times
- Large loss capabilities - no fire or water damage is too big.
Give us a call at 864-431-9200, we are always here to help!
Fire Damage: We are Here to Help!
10/12/2020 (Permalink)
The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. We can provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property, belongings, and memories are restored to preloss conditions when possible.
So, after your first wave of heroes have rescued the property, let SERVPRO of Spartanburg County help you restore it. With the industry-approved training to employ rapid response, the utmost professionalism, cutting-edge technology and open communication, we strive to restore not only the home, but the customer's peace of mind, as well.
So, before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals at (864)-576-2430!
What To Expect: Emergency Service
10/9/2020 (Permalink)
Sometimes when a water damage happens it can be in the middle of the night. Which can be confusing and very alarming. But SERVPRO is here for you no matter the time.
When you call into our office whatever the time may be, you should be prepared to answer some questions.
- Your address where the damage has occurred
- Your name and contact info (also email if possible)
- Your insurance information (if you plan to file a claim)
- When did the damage happen?
- Do you know what caused the damage?
- Is there power at the location?
With SERVPRO's fast response time we need as much information as possible. So if you have a water damage at 2AM give your local SERVPRO a call and let us help you get back to "Like it never even happened."
CALL US TODAY!
(864) 576-2430
What To Expect
10/8/2020 (Permalink)
What are some things to expect from SERVPRO when you call us with a water damage?
- Our Technicians will arrive within 4 hours of your call.
- We are available 24/7, 365 days
- Consistent communication from our technicians throughout the process.
- We will monitor the drying process to watch for possible mold growth.
- We follow the highest industry standards.
- We will explain our process in detail before any cleanup or restoration is done.
Whether it is your home or business we are here to help you. Experiencing a water damage can be a confusing time. Our experienced Technicians are here to help make the process seem more streamlined for you.
Whatever the damage. Broken pipes, sewage, rain water, leaking appliances we're here for all of your restoration needs.
CALL US TODAY!
(864) 576-2430
What to Expect With A Fire
10/8/2020 (Permalink)
When a fire in your home or business happens a lot of times all you see are the surface problems. Damages can go beyond the surface. Some things you may not think to check are the HVAC, Roof, Plumbing, Insulation, even the full structure of the building.
The above are underlying issues which is why you need to call an experienced Restoration Company like SERVPRO. With many years experience at our own location we're equipped to help with it all.
During the Restoration process al things within and around the structure should be removed from the area and cleaned if possible. If properly cleaned, sanitized and dried it stops the possibility of bacteria growth.
Always call SERVPRO and let the professionals take care of your building and property.
CALL US TODAY!
(864) 576-2430
Weather Warnings
10/8/2020 (Permalink)
With winter weather on our heels let's talk about the different kinds of Winter Weather Advisories.
-Watches- Conditions in the atmosphere are favorable for a winter storm. Temperatures are likely to be below freezing - bring in your animals.
-Advisories- One of the following are being predicted: Freezing rain, less than.5" of sleet, snow 3-5"
-Warnings- Conditions are favorable for .25" of accumulation or more, Sleet accumulation of .5" or more, 6" of snow within a 12 hour period.
When Winter Weather strikes you need to know what's headed your way so you can properly prepare. Stock the pantry, stay indoors, ride out the storm the best way you can.
Whatever your need may be after the storm passes: melting snow or ice, fallen trees causing damage to your home SERVPRO is here for you.
CALL US TODAY!!
(864) 576-2430
After The Storm: Be Prepared
10/2/2020 (Permalink)
We're all prepared and ready for when a storm comes. But what about after the storm? Do you have a checklist of what to look for? Storms and the after effects they leave behind can be stressful. Don't get overwhelmed.
Once you know it's safe to enter your home begin taking pictures of the after damage, before you move anything.
Before you enter the home step back and try to see as much of the roof as possible. Are there missing shingles? Are there any visible holes? Before you enter the home make sure all doorways are clear and secure.
Once inside your home check to make sure that there are no cracks or visible leaks.
Once you have done your own initial walk through call us. The faster the call comes in the faster we can remove any water and begin the restoration process.
Never try to do the clean up alone. Water damage can look dry but damage can be below the surface.
CALL US TODAY!
(864) 576-2430
What To Do
10/2/2020 (Permalink)
There are many different ways a water damage can happen in your home. Some you may not even think of. Each type of water damage handled accordingly. Hurricanes, flooding, sewage backup, busted pipes or broken appliances.
What To Do:
- Remove excess water immediately
- Remove furniture
- Get air flow into the space
- Hang rugs
- Dry wipe down furniture
What NOT To Do:
- Do not use your vacuum to remove water
- Do not wait to call your local SERVPRO
- Do not use electrical appliances in wet area
- Do not attempt to clean sewage yourself
While you may want to tackle this on your own your first step should be to always call your local SERVPRO. Water Restoration is best done the first time. We're available 24/7 no matter the size or the cause of damage.
CALL US TODAY!
(864) 576-2430
Common House Fires
9/30/2020 (Permalink)
Some of the most common house fires and the proper ways to extinguish them are as followed:
(Please remember always call 9-1-1 in case of an emergency)
- Grease Fire- Extinguishable with a lid/covering, baking soda or a chemical extinguisher.
- Electrical Fire- Extinguishable with baking soda or a dry extinguisher.
- Flammable Liquids- Extinguishable with a foam or powder extinguisher
- Candles- Smother the flame. Stopping oxygen from getting to the flame can help slow the spread, a chemical extinguisher can also be used.
- Space Heaters- Like an electrical fire smother with baking soda or use a dry extinguisher.
Whatever the type of fire there is or the amount of damage caused to your property SERVPRO is here 24/7 to help you get back to pre-damage conditions.
CALL US TODAY!!
(864) 576-2430
Preparing for Winter Damage
9/26/2020 (Permalink)
As winter approaches there are some things you should do to prepare your home and family.
Things to consider
- purchasing a small battery operated sump pump
- clean your chimneys
- small generator
- have extra blankets
- have your roof checked for missing shingles or existing damage
- make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed. You want to avoid melting snow or ice from getting inside your home.
In case of Emergency
If there is substantial snow damage to your property call SERVPRO 24/7. We will be there. Please be safe and be prepared as winter months are quickly approaching. Always be as prepared as possible. Heavy snow, strong winds, heavy layers of ice. Every winter is different. Whatever emergency happens we are here with the tools and professionals to handle it.
Call Us
(864) 576-2430
Grease Fires
9/26/2020 (Permalink)
Grease fires are one of the most common causes of kitchen fires that can quickly spread throughout your home.
Properly Handle The Situation
- Protect yourself
- Turn off the heat source
- Use something metal to smother the flames
- Have Baking Soda available
If you can not get the fire under control call 9-1-1.
DO NOT
- Never use water
- Never use cloth or glass to try to smother the fire
Having any type of fire happen in your home can leave you not knowing where to start to pick up the pieces. We here at SERVPRO understand how stressful this can be. Call us. Let the professionals help, We’ll be with you every step of the way, from cleaning your contents to removing any residue in the home.
CALL US TODAY
(864)576-2430
Hurricane Season
9/24/2020 (Permalink)
It's hurricane season. With as much as we wish it would leave, let's talk some basics.
Hurricanes can be as large as 600 miles across. Wind speed from 75 to 200 mph. Here in the upstate we know all to well about the effects hurricanes can have, even inland. Down trees, heavy rain, flash flooding, rising rivers. When disaster strikes you need to be prepared.
Being Prepared
Things you should have on hand when preparing for a large storm. Non perishable food items, water, first aid kit, batteries, a charged battery pack for your mobile devices, flashlights, clothes in a water tight bag.
After The Storm
When the storm leaves the area be prepared. Have SERVPRO's contact info on hand. With our 24/7 response time, we will be there. Flood/water damage or wind damage. Whether it's to board up your home or extract water and prepare for possible mold growth. We will be with you the entire step of the way.
Call Us Today! 864.576.2430
Covid-19 in a Commercial setting
9/23/2020 (Permalink)
We all know the dangers of Covid-19, but are you prepared for the virus to enter your workplace? What will you do if you have an employee who tests positive? We're here to help!
Prepared for every step, here at SERVPRO we're sitting on "Go" just waiting for your call. Prepared with full Tyvek suits, Respirators, fogging equipment and our disinfectant.
When you first get word there has been a positive case at your place of business, please clear the area where the employee(s) worked and immediately call our office.
Once we receive your call our team will come in and completely disinfect the area. We will use our fogging equipment and also hand wipe all high traffic hard touch surfaces.
Don't take it upon yourself or your janitorial crew to disinfect. Leave it to us!
Make your business prepared!
9/23/2020 (Permalink)
When a business floods, a lot of times that business has to shut their doors. When doors are shut cash flow stops.
What you may think is just a few inches of water can cause you to have to make repairs to your building. Be as prepared as possible. Call us and schedule an ERP (Emergency Ready Profile). Free of charge we can come out and map out your entire commercial building. We will locate all pertinent shut off valves and have contact info ready for you incase of an emergency.
Remember with water damages the sooner we arrive on scene and extract the water the sooner the repairs can be done and you can open your doors again.
Our goal is to help you keep those doors open or have them shut for the least amount of time possible.
Call Us Today! 864.576.2430
ERP's... We're Here to Help!
9/21/2020 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County we offer a program that helps your commercial property be aware on what to do in case of a disaster. What would you do if you were to get the unfortunate call at 2am that a pipe busted in your business? With an ERP, SERVPRO has you covered! And by the way, it is FREE!
What is an ERP?
An ERP or Emergency Ready Profile is a comprehensive collection of all the critical shutoffs, emergency contact information and any other important information you would need in an event of an emergency.
The Process
The process is as simple as it gets. It takes about 30 minutes to an hour based on the size of your facility. It takes about another hour four us to compile all the information and pictures to complete your profile. We deliver a hard copy and you also will have a digital copy on our ERP app. Normally it will take three to five business days to complete the profile and delivered to your property.
Features
Like stated before this profile is FREE! We believe that no one should pay to be well equipped and ready in case of an emergency at your business.The Emergency Ready Profile is great for new hires and new maintenance people to quickly be taught where all the emergency shutoffs are and who to contact in an event of an emergency.
Benefits
The benefits of an ERP is really unlimited. It really cuts down on the cost and time that your business is down. It can make a difference in saving hundreds if not thousands of dollars and the difference in being open for a few days, a few weeks or maybe even a few months. The ERP program can save you lots of money and time from being down due to mitigation and repairs. And also it allows us here at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County build trust and a good relationship with you.
Interested in out ERP Program? Call 864.529.9756 and schedule an appointment to set up your profile.
Commercial Water Damage
9/21/2020 (Permalink)
Things you may not think about when it comes to a Commercial Water Damage are the other damages besides the flooring and the walls. Damaged windows, pipes and HVAC. Things you can do to help prepare for these things are to take advantage of our ERP (Emergency Ready Profile). We can come help you determine all shut off valves to help limit the amount of damage done to your structure. The lesser the time the water is in contact with the structure the less residual damage will be left. Always be prepared, and we can help make it look "Like it never even happened."
Storms & Flooding
9/21/2020 (Permalink)
This is a basement flood from a heavy rain
We all get that panic feeling when we see those awful words come across our phones "Flash Flood Waring". There are some things you can do to be better prepared in your home to protect it and your belongings.
- Move important items to higher areas-counters or tables
- Make sure all doorways are clear of debris inside and out
- Do a quick clean out of your gutters and down spouts
- Make sure all windows and door are closed tight
- Bring outside furniture in
Find and save our number. When disaster strikes we're ready for anything. 24/7.
Preparing for Winter
9/21/2020 (Permalink)
As winter is quickly approaching now is the best time to get prepared. Find the time to call a Roofer or if you're a DIYer climb on up! Things to check for to avoid possible water damage from a roof collapse: loose singles, clogged gutters or down spouts. A lot of times we don't think about our roofs after summer storms. This is the time to check them again. The last thing you want is to have a heavy winter storm come through and have a possible roof collapse. While the weather is nice get it checked out. Just remember if something does happen, give us a call!
Soot Webs
9/21/2020 (Permalink)
These are soot webs after synthetic material burns, and the remnants from on the wall.
Sometimes after a fire occurs in your house you will see what looks like Black Cobwebs all over the place. Contrary to what they may look like these are actually called "Soot Webs". They occur after synthetic material burns at a high temperature. The soot gathers onto walls and against areas in the house. This is why after a damaging fire you should contact us. We have the knowledge to clean and remediate the issues caused by the fire and rid you of all the remnants that are left behind. We're here to help you make it look "Like it never even happened."
Tips That Will Help You Until Help Arrives After Fire & Smoke Damage
9/21/2020 (Permalink)
In the unfortunate circumstance where you would need fire damage restoration, we here at SERVPRO Spartanburg are here to help. Below are some do's and don'ts of fire damage.
DO:
- Limit your movement inside the home in order prevent soot into your upholstery & carpet
- make it a priority to keep your hands clean at all times
- If your power is off, be sure to empty your fridge and freezer and leave the unit’s doors open to help eliminate potential odors
- While you SHOULD change your HVAC filter, it is best to leave the system off until a trained professional can check the system
- Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of HVAC system
DON’T:
- Pursue to wash walls or any painted surfaces before first contacting SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
- Make an effort to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without consulting SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
- Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to the fire, heat or water as they may indeed be contaminated
- Attempt to send any garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may lead to smoking odor setting into the garment.
- Try to turn on any ceiling fixtures if your ceiling is still wet. It is best to contact SERVPRO of Spartanburg County before any action is taken
If you have any questions give us a call (864)529-9756
Fire Damages
9/4/2020 (Permalink)
Mechanic Shop covered in wet insulation after a fire.
A fire after hours in this Mechanic Shop caused the fire department to tear down the ceiling to check for "hot spots". This has caused the entire area to be covered in wet insulation. This before picture shows the mess that is left behind after some of the insulation dries. SERVPRO of Spartanburg was called to clean up the aftermath! Everyone at the location is thrilled with our ongoing efforts with this project. Be on the look out for our after pictures.
Always Be Prepared!
9/4/2020 (Permalink)
With all the storms that have been hitting the Upstate lately, it is a good idea to be prepared for the chance of flooding in your property. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Spartanburg County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States. Whether an inch of water creeps into your basement, or a busted pipe floods your work, SERVPRO is here to help and make your property’s damage look "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether it is an emergency or a general cleaning, give us a call!
We Love Serving Our Spartanburg Community
7/1/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO provides restoration services for water damaged residential structures and affected contents. Water can enter and damage homes from numerous sources. Most residential water damages are caused by water pipes breaking or defective appliances such as dishwashers or refrigerators. Cold weather causes pipes to freeze and burst, flooding homes. A washing machine hose can break or the water heater can spring a leak. If not resolved quickly and properly, water can even cause secondary damages, like mold.
We want you to know, Spartanburg County residents, that we are here to help! We have been serving this community for well over a decade. We have literally seen it all, big and small. So, while no one ever wants to have to call us for service, if you experience a water damage to your home know that you are dealing with the industry leading experts and trust that we will make it "Like it never even happened."
Preparing for the Eye of the Storm
6/16/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County wants to make sure you and your family are prepared for this upcoming hurricane season. Here are some tips we recommend if you are prompted to evacuate your home this storm season.
- Make a plan; know your evacuation route.
- Trim trees and shrubbery surrounding your home.
- Check all windows, walls, foundation, and doors for water leaks.
- Take inventory and photos of household belongings
- Obtain a copy of your Homeowners Insurance Policy.
- Waterproof your policy documents and any important legal documents you are taking with you.
- Box up family photos or keepsakes that will stay behind and place them on a table or counter away from windows and doors as to stay away from water.
As always be prepared and be safe Spartanburg County.
We are the Cleaning Experts
5/28/2020 (Permalink)
Category: Why SERVPRO
SERVPRO is Here to Help your business during this time of need
During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.
Specialized Training
We are prepared to clean and disinfect your business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.
The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:
- Kitchen/Food Areas
- Bathrooms
- Schools/Classrooms
- Offices
- Retail Spaces
- Water Fountains
- Shelving/Racks
- Sales Counters
- Carpets and Rugs
- Stair Handrails
- Elevator Cars
- Playground Equipment
- Fitness Equipment
Specialized Products
The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.
Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning
If your business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – [SERVPRO of Spartanburg County, 864-576-2430
We are Cleaning Experts
4/23/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need
During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.
Specialized Training
We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs on a daily basis.
The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:
- Kitchen/Food Areas
- Bathrooms
- Schools/Classrooms
- Offices
- Retail Spaces
- Water Fountains
- Shelving/Racks
- Sales Counters
- Carpets and Rugs
- Stair Handrails
- Elevator Cars
- Playground Equipment
- Fitness Equipment
Specialized Products
The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.
Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning
If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Spartanburg County, (864) 576-2430!
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html
THE SERVPRO WAY
2/15/2020 (Permalink)
Serving others is at the heart of SERVPRO's vision to be the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world. Whether it's a home or business, SERVPRO knows that the most important job is helping each customer put their life back together.
Our number one goal is returning damaged property and items to preloss condition, doing all we can to help you regain control following a disaster. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is dedicated to restoring both the property and the lives of the customers we help...
- Like it was never dirty
- Like it never overflowed
- Like it never caught fire
- Like it never spilled
- Like it never smoldered
Whatever the case, with SERVPRO of Spartanburg, our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."
With every flood comes a flood of emotions. Lot's of time we meet our customers on their worst day. We know that you had the choice to chose anyone you wanted to help you with your situation. we take EXTREME pride in knowing that you chose us! If your home or business experiences a loss, big or small.. call us - you'll be happy you did!
WHEN WATER INVADES
2/3/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County specializes in water damage repair and restoration. We are dedicated to responding immediately to water damages. A fast response time on a water damage can offer peace of mind and also reduce the chance of additional damages. Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time.
The most common water damage scenarios are flooding caused by leaking appliances, water heaters, plumbing, overflowing toilets, sinks, bathtubs and storms. If affected by water damage the most important thing to remember is safety first. Ask yourself, is it safe to be in the house? Are there any electrical issues? Remember, water damaged materials can be extremely heavy so avoid any materials over head that are damaged.
Call SERVPRO for your water damage repair then contact your Insurance Company. SERVPRO will dispatch a skilled and certified team to respond quickly to your damage. We also work with many Insurance companies as a preferred water damage provider.
Before we arrive, there are a few tips that can reduce the amount of damage during our dispatch.
- Shut off the water source if possible
- Remove excess water by mopping, blotting, or squeegee
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs
- Remove colored rugs from wet carpets
- Remove books, magazines, or other colored items off wet carpets
Upon arrival, leave everything else to us. We will care for your home as if it were our own. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County will work with your insurance company and help make it “Like it never even happened”
We Choose Us & You Will Too
2/3/2020 (Permalink)
For over 53 years SERVPRO has been a trusted name and the leader in the residential and commercial restoration industry. With all the competition out there how has SERVPRO continued that trend you ask? It’s very simple. Our customers are our top priority. We know and understand that we meet some of our customers on their worst day. Their homes or businesses have suffered damaged. Their safe haven and livelihood have been disrupted. At SERVPRO we understand this and we pride ourselves of getting life back to normal as quickly as possible using various methods.
SERVPRO offers 24/7 Emergency Services with a quick response time. Fast response times, on a water damage, not only offers our customers peace of mind; it also reduces additional damage.
SERVPRO offers a skilled and certified response team. They come prepared for any size loss and the knowledge and skill to act quickly. Above all, our response team comes with a passion for helping those in need.
SERVPRO uses state of the art equipment which can extract water quickly and dry your home or business thoroughly and successfully.
With SERVPRO on the job the results will be "Like it never even happened."
NOT JUST YOUR AVERAGE STORM
2/3/2020 (Permalink)
In the restoration industry many Storm events can be a big ordeal for local franchises. A lot of times when storm is brought up many think of hurricanes, heavy sweeping rainstorms and arctic blast. Most of the time these events can be forecast ahead of time allowing for many Franchises to prepare trucks, stage equipment and map deployment routes.
But what about the unpredictable events? Living in the South this can be an all too common occurrence. April showers can lead to unprecedented rain totals causing basement and sub surface living quarters to flood. Those hot August days can bring monsoon type 5 o’clock storms with damaging blowing rain along with tree limbs crashing down and toppling trees instantly wreaking havoc on homes and businesses faster than a lightning strike. Before you know it, here comes Autumn. Warm temperatures begin to exit and mix with the incoming cold air leading to what many in our region are familiar with, the microburstm, that can have tornado like force and strike as fast as it disappears damaging roofs and other structural pieces.
These phenomena are scenarios that your local SERVPRO of Spartanburg train and always prepare for . We are constantly keeping multiple trucks stocked and ready to respond for emergency services twenty-four hours a day seven day a week. We make sure that any equipment that is not kept on a vehicle, is easily accessible to load on the appropriate truck. SERVPRO is always checking and rechecking that all equipment is in working and fully functional condition.
Last but not least SERVPRO of Spartanburg is constantly keeping open lines of communication with neighboring franchises in case of mass influx of damage to the Spartanburg community to help those in need of assistance.
To our fellow neighbors in our beautiful community, Spartanburg county, please know that here at SERVPRO we are #oneteam and we are #heretohelp
Emergency Damage Process Overview
11/27/2019 (Permalink)
One Hour:
Within one hour from notice of loss, a SERVPRO professional will contact you to arrange for service. You will know help is on the way!
Four Hours:
Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO professional will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to damage.
Detailed Explanation:
A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.
Pre-Testing:
A SERVPRO professional will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.
Eight Hours:
Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally the adjuster or property manager.
Cleaning & Restoration:
SERVPRO professionals will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure the property is taken care of right the first time.
Final Walk-Through:
After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted to help ensure satisfaction.
When You Need a Quick Response-Call on SERVPRO
11/16/2019 (Permalink)
As a commercial property management professional, your clients and tenants rely on you for efficient day-to-day operations of their property. They also depend on you to protect it. SERVPRO franchise professionals understand there’s no such thing as a small emergency when it can negatively impact occupant safety, revenue loss and business continuity.
Timely mitigation is key to minimizing damage, business interruptions and recovery costs. You and those who depend on you will appreciate the rapid response, expertise and training that enables your local SERVPRO franchise professional to help get your facility back into operation quickly.
You Can Trust SERVPRO!
Serving America Since 1967
SERVPRO franchise professionals have been helping business owners recover from fire and water damages across North America.
Over 1,700 Franchises in North America
More locations mean faster response. A SERVPRO franchise professional can usually be on-site within four hours to help protect the structure, business and personal property.
SERVPRO Call Center Serves Insurance and Property Management Companies and Their Clients
We have earned the trust of the insurance industry by serving thousands of their policy holders and clients with respect and integrity. The more we restore, the less that needs to be replaced. This helps our clients save millions of dollars each year. That helps lower your insurance rates, too!
24-Hour Emergency Service
In our business, you need us fast! The sooner we arrive, the better the chance we reduce the damage and save money. Franchise professionals are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
Trained, Uniformed Franchise Professionals
A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO franchise professional will walk you through the job process and then work quickly to restore your property to preloss condition whenever possible.
References
SERVPRO franchise professionals understand your loss is the job that matters most! We will be happy to provide references so you can feel confident the SERVPRO system is the best system to service your needs.
The SERVPRO Difference
11/11/2019 (Permalink)
The People, Experience, Training and Equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.”
The People
With over 10,000 quality teammates in North America, SERVPRO franchise professionals help you get your business back.
The Training
SERVPRO Industries, Inc. is an IICRC-approved school to help ensure our training meets and exceeds accepted industry standards.
The Experience
SERVPRO is a franchise system with over 45 years of leadership in fire, water, mold and more, cleanup and restoration.
The Equipment
With 5,000,000 square feet of building space housing over 140,000 pieces of equipment, SERVPRO franchise professionals have the resources to help you!
Track Record
With each saved home, with each reopened business and with each satisfied insurance client, SERVPRO’s track record of excellence continues to grow.
Support
From the SERVPRO Call Center to our Large Loss and Storm Response Teams, SERVPRO’s corporate infrastructure provides the support to help put your property on the road to recovery.
Vandalism Damage: SERVPRO is Always Here To Help
10/19/2019 (Permalink)
Vandalized building.
Vandalism Damage
Seeing your business vandalized is something no one wants to experience. It is something that one cannot really control but, in an event of vandalization to your business follow these tips and contact a professional to take care of it for you.
Do:
- Hose or wash egg damage from building exterior as soon as possible.
- Vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery.
- Save containers which reveal the ingredients of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints.
Don’t:
- Attempt to remove ink, paint, or cosmetic stains.
- Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
- Discard furniture wood chips, broken pieces from porcelain, furniture or art objects.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County would be more than happy to help you clean up the mess and make your building “Like it never even happened.”
Give us a call! 864.576.2430
Harmful Waste In Your Commercial Property
10/18/2019 (Permalink)
Harmful Waste
(Sewage, Bloodborne Pathogens, etc.)
Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening.
- Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
Don’t:
- Attempt cleanup of any kind
- Touch or handle items that might be contaminated with bodily fluids
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County wants to ensure that you are safe at all times. We have the correct PPE (Personal Protection Equipment), solutions, and we properly dispose of all harmful waste. This could happen anywhere including in your commercial property. Accidents happen all the time, we are here to take of that accident for you. If you have any questions or concerns about this situation, give us a call and we will have someone take care of it for you. Our professional production crew is well trained in taking care of harmful waste. You have nothing to worry about.
Call Us Today! 864.576.2430
The Fire Restoration Process
10/16/2019 (Permalink)
There is no doubt that a fire is traumatic. What most people fail to tell you is that the process to restore your property caused by a fire can be long. If you or someone you know has recently had a fire no matter whether it is a residential or commercial property, knowing exactly what happens during the fire damage restoration can be very helpful. At SERVPRO of Spartanburg County, our trained professionals can make the damages caused by a fire can make it “Like it never even happened.” Here are a few key aspects in fire damage restoration.
Evaluate the Damage
Before the restoration process begins, our trained professionals asses the scene and evaluate the severity of the damages caused by the fire. Here is when your team take note of everything that needs to be done. There could be water damage that needs attention as well as smoke and soot damage.
Coordinate
Our production team has the expertise to get the job done right! Our team can not only restore the damages due to a fire, but also get rid of the smell of soot and smoke from you property. And we have proven track record of successfully restoration commercial and residential properties. Take a look at our videos, photo gallery, and before and after pictures.
Restore
Once our production team is prepared and ready to go, they will tackle the job and restore it just the way you want it to be. You will be shocked in how well the damages have been repaired and restored after the job is done. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County works with you and your insurance company to make sure everything is covered properly.
If you have stumbled across this problem, pick up the phone and give us a call! We would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have or send one of your experts to inspect the affected area.
864.576.2430
For Homeowners, Putting Out A Fire Can Be Worse Than The Fire Itself
10/14/2019 (Permalink)
The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO professionals can help prevent fire damage from creating ling-term problems. SERVPRO professionals provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke, and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible. SERVPRO professionals are available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year to help you regain control quickly
What You Can Do Until Help Arrives
- Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
- Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
- Coat chrome faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
- Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
- Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
- Do not clean any electrical equipment.
- Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor.
Ask about our contents claims inventory service and document restoration services.
A backdraft of emotions often sweeps over the homeowners after a fire ravages a home. Fear, uncertainty, stress, and doubt about the furniture of the property can overwhelm the homeowner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared.
So after the first wave of heroes have rescued the property, let SERVPRO of Spartanburg County professional help you restore it. With the industry-approved training to employ rapid response, the utmost professionalism, cutting-edge technology and open communication, we strive to restore not only the home, but the customer’s peace of mind, as well.
So, before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the fire damage clean up and restoration professionals at 864-576-2430. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have worked for over 40 years to make fire damage “Like it never even happened.”
What To Do In an Event of Sewage Invading Your Home or Business
10/11/2019 (Permalink)
Water Damage From Contaminated Water
Do:
- Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
- Wash your hands thoroughly if contact with contaminated does occur.
Don’t:
- Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
- Turn on the HVAC system if there is possibility of spreading contaminated air.
- Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
- Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.
When it comes to contaminated water, SERVPRO of Spartanburg County are experts. We have trained professionals that can properly and efficiently take care of your sewage problem. A tragedy could happen in seconds and at any time so, do not hesitate and pick up the phone and give us a call. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County has 24/7 emergency services.
864.576.2430
Large Loss and Storm Response Program
10/9/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO’s Large Loss Response Team was recruited to serve commercial large loss needs. This elite group of large loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States with substantial resources through a network of over 1,700 locations. Corporate oversight and communication on every file help to meet the predetermined client-specific needs. Immediate response, available 24/7/365 through 1-800-SERVPRO, will minimize any interruption’s in your business or home.
- Network of Strategically Positioned Storm Teams on Standby
- Immediate Mobilization
- 1-800-SERVPRO-24/7/365
- Mobile and Local Command Centers
- Pre-Negotiated Pricing
- Corporate Oversight and Real-Time Event Management
- Commercial and Residential Losses Serviced
- Waiting Lists Minimized
- Back-End Reports for Analysis
- Uniformed Personnel
- Background Checks Required
SERVPRO is faster to any sized disaster and is always available to help you during your time in need.
Water Damage Cleanup & Restoration
10/9/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can help provide a solution to your property’s water damage needs.
- Uniformed Franchise Professionals will arrive on-site usually within four hours of notification to begin providing a resolution to the water damage situation.
- Technicians communicate their assessment with the property manager or owner in detail before beginning the cleanup and restoration process.
- Franchise Professionals utilize industry guidelines, knowledge, training and industrial equipment to examine the extent of the damage.
- Restoration services include moisture detection, water extraction, dehumidification and contents inventory.
- Closing the event work order in a timely manner through electronic claims reporting, consistent communication and professional restoration techniques.
- SERVPRO Franchise Professionals – available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
If your home or business is experiencing any kind of water damage, give us a call and our professionals will work with you to solve and restore the damages.
Fire, Smoke and Soot Restoration Services
10/9/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can help provide a solution to your property’s fire damage needs.
Structural Cleaning- After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. A SERVPRO Franchise Professional Will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your facility. Depending on the amount of soot, SERVPRO may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on some surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing.
Contents Cleaning- All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO professionals begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. Finally, SERVPRO can provide an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items if requested.
Deodorization- SERVPRO provides specialized services that rid your place of business or home of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO does not merely cover up lingering odors with fragrance, they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them.
Storm Damages: Flood Edition-Be Prepared
10/4/2019 (Permalink)
Moving water can be dangerous. Stay out of its way.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is always here to help and we want you to ALWAYS be prepared. Here are some tips from FEMA(Federal Emergency Management Agency) for preparing your home or business for a flood.
Before the Flood:
- Have a qualified professional elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.
- Install “check valves” in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home or business.
- Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to help avoid seepage.
During the Flood:
- Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.
- Disconnect electrical appliances .
- Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
- Do not walk through moving water. Even six inches of moving water can make you fall.
After the Flood:
- Listen for news reports to learn if the community’s water supply is safe to drink.
- Avoid floodwaters. Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged.
- Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
- Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe to do so.
What To Do and What Not To Do When Experiencing Water Damages
10/4/2019 (Permalink)
Water Damage From Clean Water
Do:
- Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source
- Turn of circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
- Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
- Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
- Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
- Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
- Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
- Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpet or floors.
- Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature
Don’t:
- Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
- Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
- Leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets to cause staining.
- Leave oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
- Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
- Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
- Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
Extinguishing A Fire 101
9/27/2019 (Permalink)
When your home or business is on fire, there is only one thing top of mind, PUT THE FIRE OUT! In your business you are required to have a fire extinguisher and it is a good idea to have one in your home too. A fire extinguisher can save your home or business from suffering major damages. Below are the steps on how to properly use a fire extinguisher to put out a fire.
- PULL--Pull the pin that will break the tamper seal
- AIM--When aiming, point the nozzle or hose low. Go for the base of the fire.
NOTE--Do not touch the plastic discharge horn on CO2 extinguishers. It can damage your skin due to extreme heat.
- SQUEEZE—Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.
- SWEEP—While extinguishing the fire, sweep from side to side at the base of the fire until it is out.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this task, evacuate immediately and call 911!
Fire Safety
9/23/2019 (Permalink)
Reviewing the fire escape plan is very important. It can save lives.
When it comes to a house fire, you would do anything to keep your family safe. In an event of a fire at your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape. If you had that little time wouldn’t having a plan of escape and early detectors help this situation? This answer is super easy, yes. It can save lives. Here are some other things that can help your family in an event of a fire.
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home. That includes bedrooms and outside the sleeping areas.
Make sure to test the smoke alarms every month. If they are not working, change the batteries.
Create a family fire emergency escape plan and review it at least twice a year
And finally, if a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County experts can help you and your family deal with the aftermath of a house fire. Do not hesitate, let us take care of our your problems. Pick up the phone and call immediately. We off 24/7 emergency services for people in need. We are always here to help!
864.576.2430
Are You Covered Properly?
9/20/2019 (Permalink)
Protect your business assets.
Every company needs business property insurance whether you own your own company building, lease it, or work from home. What a core business owners policy covers is your building and its contents, along with exterior fixtures. To go more in depth, this policy will cover your company’s physical assets from fire, explosions, burst pipes, storms, theft and vandalism. Normally earthquakes and floods are not covered in this policy unless added to the plan.
Cost
The cost of this policy varies. There are many factors that affect the cost of your policy. It really depends on the value of your business assets, including your building. The rest is based on risk. To elaborate on that, your location, construction, occupancy, fire protection, and theft protection are things that manipulate your premium. Location is obvious, if you live in an area prone to storms and other natural disasters your premium will adjust accordingly. Another factor is how you building was built and how old it is. The industry that you are in also affects the cost. Lastly, insurance companies look at how far away you are from the nearest fire hydrant and fire station and they also look to see if you have fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and security systems.
Coverage
Just like we talked about before, this policy will basically covers your building, everything in it and just outside of it. Here are some examples:
- Computers
- Furniture
- Equipment
- Exterior Signs
- Fence
- Landscaping
- Important documents
- Inventory
- Others’ property
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County works hand-in-hand with insurance companies all the time to make sure our customers are taken care of properly. To find out more about coverage and cost of a plan like this, contact your insurance agent to make sure you are covered properly in case of a disaster.
Hurricane Season is Back!
9/20/2019 (Permalink)
Hurricane winds are extremely strong and can cause major damage.
This time last year the state of South Carolina was still dealing with the after effects of Hurricane Florence. Hurricane season is still in full affect. We have already had a hurricane scare with Hurricane Dorian earlier this month. After taking a look at the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Jerry is forming and is hanging out near the Caribbean as I speak. This is nothing to worry about because it will not pass by the South Carolina shores.
Heavy rainfall and strong winds really puts beating on your home. Shingles can fly off leaving your roof exposed, sidings would fall and crumble like paper, and the structure of your home could be tested. It is important to have inspections on your home to make sure it is ready to take on the beating from the storms caused by hurricanes.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg is always here to help and is faster to any size disaster than anyone around. We have 24/7 emergency services to help with the effects of storms during hurricane season.
Give us a call immediately! 864.576.2430
What SERVPRO Does When There's A Flood
9/20/2019 (Permalink)
Flood damages are bad no matter the size.
The Experience
With over 45 years of experience, SERVPRO professionals have restored flood-damaged homes and businesses from coast to coast. SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team is trained and equipped to handle the largest storms and the highest flood waters. If a flood does strike your home or business give SERVPRO of Spartanburg County a call. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often and overwhelming task. The SERVPRO system is prepared to handle any size disaster and help make it “Like it never even happened.”
Floods Strike Everywhere
Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the US. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert, there is a potential for suffering flood damage. In fact, nearly 25% of last year’s claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for polices in moderate to low risk communities. According to the NFIP, houses in the US have a 26% chance of being damaged by a flood during the course of a 30-year mortgage, while businesses face similar risks by flooding. On average, floods cost $6 billion in annual losses in the US.
The Dangers of Mold
If flood damage is not promptly mitigated, lingering moisture from floodwater may elevate the risk of mold growth. SERVPRO professionals can properly remediate mold damage in your home or business.
SERVPRO as a company has sent disaster recovery teams to respond to flood and storm situations all over the country in recent years. From as recent as the Houston floods in 2016, taking it back all the way back to Hurricane Katrina back in 2005.
5 Common Causes of Fires In Your Home or Business
9/18/2019 (Permalink)
This fire was caused by cooking utensils catching on fire.
No one wants to deal with damages to your home or business due to a fire. Fires are catastrophic and brings along unhealthy smoke and soot. The best way to prevent all of this is knowledge. Knowing the common causes of fires in your home or business can help you understand how to stay safe.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is always here to help and today we are here to help everyone understand the common causes of fires in a home or business to prevent these fires from happening.
Smoking
Generally when thinking about smoking people think about the negative health effects but, what people do not think about is that smoking inside your home or business can cause a fire. Smoking is the leading cause of house fires especially when cigarettes are not disposed of properly. A cigarette that is still lit when thrown in the trash can ignite in seconds, covering your home or business in flames. To help prevent this, smoke outside and properly dispose your cigarettes.
Kitchen Fires
The kitchen is not an uncommon location for a fire to spark. It can happen because of open flames or intense heat of the stove. There are many things that can act as a catalyst to start a fire in your kitchen. Cooking utensils, clothes and napkins are just a few out of all the things that can help start a kitchen fire. The best way to prevent a kitchen fire is to always be aware of what you are doing while cooking.
Electrical Fires
All home and businesses are filed with electrical appliances and covered with wires behind the wall. Any malfunctions with those wires or appliances can cause massive fires. Something that a lot of people forget is that electrical fires cannot be put out by water, a water-less extinguisher is needed to take care of the fire. To prevent and electrical fire, make sure to not plug too many appliances to one outlet and to repair any wires that are damaged.
Lightning Strikes
Mother Nature isn’t always our friend in life. When thinking of a storm, most people relate it to flood damage and do not realize that there is also a fire risk. Lightning strikes are unpredictable and if your house or business is struck, it can cause a fire. If you are in an area prone to storms, the best thing to do is to have an efficient evacuation plan to keep you and your family safe.
Children Playing With Fire
Kids are going to be kids and that is something that is hard to control. Their curiosity can lead to disaster rapidly when playing with fire. Children tend to play with lighters, matches and candles without worry about causing a fire. To help with this situation, educate your children on how dangerous it is to play with fire to prevent a disaster from happening.
When disaster strike, SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is always here to help. In an event of an emergency, pick up the phone and give us a call!
864.576.2430
What does SERVPRO of Spartanburg County do about Water Damages?
9/18/2019 (Permalink)
Flood in a building due to a leak in the ceiling.
One of our specialties here at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is water damages. One might ask, “what do you do for water damages?” “Do you just suck water up?” The answer is no, completing a water damage job is so much more than just sucking water out of a residential or commercial property. It takes a lot of training and work to be able to get the job done right the SERVPRO way.
Our production are technicians are trained to classify what kind of water they will be working with on the job site and adjust their methods accordingly. While extracting water is part of the job, our technicians also do any demolition needed to affected areas and remove baseboards or floors in your property. That goes along with the drying process, an important step in completing a water damage. It prevents the property from sparking a growth of mold due to the humidity caused by the water which leads to more money or time loss. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County have specialized equipment and methods to aid the drying process to make sure it is completely dry before completing the job. We do not leave until everything is dry. To see for yourself what kind of work we do here at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County, go check out our videos on this website. You can also take a look at the video where our production manager Dallas Gunn goes on to talk about his experiences with water damages and how it has changed since he first started dealing with water damages back in 1994!
Corporate Paying a Visit? Let SERVPRO Take Care of You Commercial Building
9/18/2019 (Permalink)
General cleaning done to a warehouse
Recently SERVPRO of Spartanburg County received a call from a big commercial warehouse here in Spartanburg asking if we could go in and do some general cleaning for them because corporate was going to be there that week. We are always here to help to so we gladly took the job. What they wanted us to do was simple. They wanted most walls cleaned throughout the warehouse, the safety rails, and finally the floors/windows cleaned in the office area. Our wonderful cleaning crew lead by Crystal took the necessary solutions and supplies to get the job done before corporate paid them a visit. We began but dusting off the wall railings. Then we used our specialized solutions to wipe the walls and rails down until they were nice and clean. We started at the very top of the wall by climbing up the tallest ladder we had in our shop and worked our way down. Getting all the spots off the walls was not easy, our cleaning were putting in some elbow grease to ensure clean and shiny walls. After all the walls around the warehouse was cleaned, we moved to clean the tile floors and windows around the office space. The cleaning crew got the job done just in time for their corporate office to come for a yearly visit.
Commercial Emergency Ready Profile
9/11/2019 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County we offer a program that helps your commercial property be aware on what to do incase of a disaster. It is called an ERP. And by the way, it is FREE!
What is an ERP?
An ERP or Emergency Ready Profile is a comprehensive collection of all the critical shutoffs, emergency contact information and any other important information you would need in an event of an emergency.
The Process
The process is as simple as it gets. It takes about 30 minutes to an hour based on the size of your facility. It takes about another hour four us to compile all the information and pictures to complete your profile. We deliver a hard copy and you also will have a digital copy on our ERP app. Normally it will take three to five business days to complete the profile and delivered to your property.
Features
Like stated before this profile is FREE! We believe that no one should pay to be well equipped and ready in case of an emergency at your business.The Emergency Ready Profile is great for new hires and new maintenance people to quickly be taught where all the emergency shutoffs are and who to contact in an event of an emergency.
Benefits
The benefits of an ERP is really unlimited. It really cuts down on the cost and time that your business is down. It can make a difference in saving hundreds if not thousands of dollars and the difference in being open for a few days, a few weeks or maybe even a few months. The ERP program can save you lots of money and time from being down due to mitigation and repairs. And also it allows us here at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County build trust and a good relationship with you.
Interested in out ERP Program? Call 864.576.2430 and schedule an appointment to set up your profile.
Restoring Your Spartanburg Commercial Property After A Water Damage Disaster
7/1/2019 (Permalink)
Commercial Property suffering a water damage in Spartanburg, SC
Flooding and water damage events at Spartanburg commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges
Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Spartanburg Home
7/1/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County 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 Spartanburg County
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County 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.
Prepare Your Home For Heavy Rainfall In The Upstate
6/7/2019 (Permalink)
According to the meteorologists, the Upstate will suffer the effects of rain fall for a whole week. Homeowners should not take this lightly, especially if they haven't prepared for the water heading our way. Here are a few things that homeowners should double check and inspect around their home to insure no damage is caused by these storms.
Roof Inspection
Your roof is the first line of defense. Any crack to tear could lead to damage inside your home. A roof inspection/repairs should be made to prevent water from making its way into your home.
Clean Gutters
Gutters are basically a part of your roofing system. Making sure that your gutters are not cracked and debris free will help keep your home safe. Blockage caused by the debris will cause flooding in your roofing systems which could be very problematic.
Inspect Inside Your Home
Another way to keep your home safe is to inspect the inside of your home. Making sure that all windows and doors are closed and sealed properly will help keep the water out. If there are any damages, make sure to repair them before it is too late.
Surrounding Trees
Lastly, cutting those branches that hang over your home is a game changer. The leaves will clog your gutters and you are running the risk of having those bigger branches causing damage to the structure of your home and cause more problems.
Hopefully everyone in the Upstate area takes these tips on how to protect your home this week from all the rain fall we are going to experience.
If your home has suffered damages from the storms, SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is always here to help, so do not hesitate to give us a call. We have 24/7 emergency services to help those in need.
864.576.2430
The Story of a Commercial Fire Job
5/20/2019 (Permalink)
This is just one of the many areas that was affected by the fire.
A well-known local company here in Spartanburg, SC was struck by a disaster at the beginning of the year that no company would ever want to go through. A fire sparked caused by an electrical malfunction that covered the upstairs office area with flames and left everything in piles of charred debris. In panic mode, they contacted SERVPRO of Spartanburg County to restore their office spaces. As this was a massive job to take care of, our crew here at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County took the job and made it "Like it never even happened." The long process of restoring the upstairs office spaces started with taking inventory of everything that was still somewhat together and not completely burned. After that, the production crew began to tear down everything affected by the fire and disposed of them properly. This part took the longest because the crew was removing and disposing literally everything in the office spaces. Once all of the debris was removed from the area, the cleaning and deodorizing process began. Everything was covered in soot from the insulation in the ceiling, to the floor they walked on. With our specialized equipment, the production crew was able to clean all the soot off the walls and floors and remove the smoke smell from the whole building with our deodorizing solutions and hydroxyls. Then, to ensure clean walls, the production crew pressure washed all the concrete walls to leave the walls and floors spotless. Due to the water used during the pressure washing process, the crew had to extract the standing water left over on the floors. The company was 100% satisfied and thankful for SERVPRO of Spartanburg County coming in and restoring the massive office area so they could return to normal business operations. And we also want to thank them for choosing SERVPRO for their urgent restoration needs.
Tips for a great 2019 for our friends in Spartanburg County
2/1/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County wants you to start the New Year off right by taking some steps to help insure a safe and happy 2019. Here are some tips that may help!
- Do not wait for daylight savings time to check your smoke detector. All smoke detectors have a manufacturing date on them. If that date over 10 years old, replace it! Also if your home has gas or oil heat it is a good idea to invest in a carbon monoxide detector.
- What was learned with the Gatlinburg fire is that there is not always time to gather things when an evacuation is required. Keep a pre-packed bag handy with some cash, changes of clothes, medications, copies of important documents, etc.
- Have your family practice fire drills to make sure everyone knows how to escape, what to do and where to meet should a fire occur.
- If you are traveling and will be away for several days, please be sure to turn off the water so you do not come home to any surprises. Also, lower your thermostat but do not turn off the heat if there is a chance of freezing temperatures.
- If you are using rubber hoses for the water supply to your washing machine, they need to be replaced every 5 years. Consider using steel braided hoses as they are much more durable than rubber ones.
- Periodically check the water supply lines on ice makers and dish washers for signs of wear and replace when needed.
- Keep a properly rated fire extinguisher in your kitchen and be sure to have them checked periodically by a professional.
- Make sure you know where the critical shutoffs are in your home for main power, water and gas if applicable.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County wishes you a wonderful and prosperous 2019!!
Flooding and Water Emergencies in Spartanburg County
2/1/2019 (Permalink)
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 864-576-2430
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
- Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
- Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
- Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
- Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
- Drywall begins to swell and break down.
- Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
- Furniture begins to swell and crack.
- Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
- A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
- Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
- Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
- Metal begins to rust and corrode.
- Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
- Paint begins to blister.
- Wood flooring swells and warps.
- Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
- Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
- Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
About SERVPRO of North & South Spartanburg County
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County 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
When Storms Hit, SERVPRO is Ready!
2/1/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Spartanburg County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether it is an emergency or a general cleaning, give us a call!!
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 864.576.2430
Spartanburg Smoke & Soot Cleanup
2/1/2019 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Spartanburg County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – 864.576.2430
DIY Home Improvements Tips For Spartanburg County
2/1/2019 (Permalink)
With all of this wet weather we have had it may be a good time to do some projects indoors. Thanks to our friends at AARP, here is a list of 10 indoor home improvement projects to consider! Thanks again for trusting SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
http://www.aarp.org/money/budgeting-saving/info-10-2013/indoor-home-improvement-fixes-photo.html#slide1
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. We provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. With the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs, we’re locally owned and operated and can respond immediately to your emergency. Call us at 864.576.2430!
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is also available for your carpet and tile cleaning needs!! Please call us today for a free consultation and estimate.
Be Aware, Mold Might Be In The Air
2/1/2019 (Permalink)
Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:
- Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
- Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
- Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
- Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
- Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
- Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 864.576.2430
Faster To Any Disaster
11/30/2018 (Permalink)
Fire an water damages are never scheduled, but are you prepared? From a burst pipe in an office building to faulty wiring in an apartment complex- fire and water losses are never planned, but they do occur.
SERVPRO professionals can manage the damage . We have...
- Over 40 years of business in the cleanup and restoration industry
- More than 1,500 franchises serving 48 states
- Detailed communication throughout the cleaning and restoration process helps keep you informed and in control
- Experience and traning in mitigation damages ranging from sinlge family homes to skyscrapers, and even the Pentagon.
1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines
- Within one hour from notice of loss, a SERVPRO representative will contact you to arrange for service
- Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO representative will be on-site to start mitigation services
- Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person
Quick response is everything. It may help avoid revenue loss for property owners and minimize inconvenience to tenants. Also, restoration services can help resume normal business functions quickly while avoiding costly construction downtime.
Need some restoration services? Call SERVPRO today!
864-576-2430
IICRC Certified Firm
11/16/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County 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 Spartanburg County
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County 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.
Why Choose SERVPRO?
11/16/2018 (Permalink)
Reduce Claims Loss Expense
Emergency Response
Mitigation requires quick action. The faster SERVPRO can arrive on-site to perform water and smoke cleanup, the better the results, including lower claim costs.
Timely Assignment
Service Response Guidelines
- Within one hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO will contact your insured to arrange for service
- Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO will be on-site to start the mitigation process
- Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the adjuster
Faster Work Completion
No more waiting days for a contractor to respond when every hour counts. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is dedicated to providing 24-hour emergency service, 365 days a year.
Why SERVPRO?
SERVPRO professionals arrive quickly and are trained and equipped to help you regain control of your life when disaster strikes.
Commercial Plumbing Issues
10/22/2018 (Permalink)
It is that time of year, leaves are falling and the temperature is dropping, but work must continue. The temperature is dropping which can affect your commercial building.
Pipe Bursting
It is important to keep your pipes in your building in good shape to prevent any problems. As the days get colder, you are running the risk of your pipes freezing over which can cause crack and leaks. This can happen no mater the material. Plastic, copper, or steel can freeze which will make the pipes crack or even burst. A pipe burst can let go around 200 gallons in just one day which will cause major water damage to your commercial building.
Prevention
If you are expecting freezing temperatures, be one step ahead and close the water supply lines and washer connections. To circulate heat to the hidden pipes underneath all sinks, make sure to leave those cabinets open to allow the heat in your home help prevent those pipes from freezing.
A pipe bursting in your business could be a huge problem. It could restrain you from working. There will most likely be standing water inside the building. Call SERVPRO immediately after you discover the problem and we will be there to take care of the problem and cut that time that you are not in business way down.
Call Today 864-576-2430
3 Winter Roof Damage Issues Business Owners Need To Know
10/20/2018 (Permalink)
The heavy snow caused the roof to cave in.
Winter can be a hard time for business owners. Winter can cause damage to their homes but they also have to worry about their business. Here are some common issues that business owners need to be aware of as winter approaches.
Ice Dam Formation
When the warm air is rising from the inside of your building, it loosens the shingles as well as the snow on top of the shingles. The melted snow travels to colder parts of the roof where it freezes once again. That creates a blockade for the other snow that melts and falls which causes the water sitting there to seep through the lose shingles or any cracks on that roof. This will lead to water leaking into your building. One good way to prevent this is to keep the gutter clean and install a heat trace cable in the gutter to melt the snow and keep that flow going.
Icicle Formation
Similar to the ice dam formation, icicles are formed when the snow on the roof travels then freezes up on the edge of the roof. They can cause damage to your shingles and gutter and fall on the pedestrians walking by. The simple tactic of using a rake and removing the icicles should do the trick.
Heavy Rooftop Snow Loads
All roofs are designed and built differently, which means they all support different weights. If a huge snow storm hits and your roof is left with a very large load of snow on it, your roof is running a very high risk of collapsing. And if it is bad enough, it can all fall through into your building and damage the contents in your building. If you see any signs of this problem call SERVPRO immediately.
With all of this being said, having a roof inspection before anything hits is a good idea to keep the building in good shape and everything inside that building. These points can also apply to your home as well.
Winter Time Fires
10/19/2018 (Permalink)
A fire caused by the misuse of a fire place.
The freezing temperatures are approaching and that means everyone is going to do what they can to stay warm. What people do not think about is the damages one could cause while trying to stay warm on a cold day.
Cold weather means turning up the heat and the use of other heating methods like space heaters, heat blanket, candles, and fire places. All of these things can light up the room if used improperly like keeping them on for too long or placing some of these heat sources too close to flammable objects.
Chilly winter air contains less moisture compared to the air in the other seasons throughout the year. Because of the chilly air, the physical wood structure of the home becomes drier which can lead to electrical fires under the right conditions.
The older the home the more likely it is to be a potential ball of fire. For example, the Clintons' house was built in 1889. An electrical fire occurred and an electrical fire happens when too much electricity is pulled through older wires that cannot handle the capacity.
To prevent these potential problems, have an annual safety inspection to make sure your home is not at risk of lighting up in flames. Here is something to think about, although the total numbers of fire during the winter decreases, the number of structural fires increase.
Attic Water Damage Prevention
10/12/2018 (Permalink)
This attic suffered water damage that was not spotted and treated so it lead to the grow of mold.
Attic water damage has quite a few causes and has multiple consequences as well. Attic water damage can lead to roof repairs, replacement of attic beams, insulation removal, sheetrock replacement, carpet replacement, and many more. Here are some tips to help prevent you from having to replace/repair things in your attic.
- Inspect the roof regularly. When it rains, water may creep under split shingles and make its way into the attic. It ruins the walls and ceilings on its way down.
- Prevent ruptured pipes. Usually the pipe lines run through the attic. If this is the case, make sure to insulate all exposed pipes to prevent them from rupturing over the winter. Also check for any tiny holes and check the joints to make sure that they are still in tact and not leaking.
- Control condensation. If your attic does not have some type of roof vent to circulate the air up there, you might want to look into getting a powered vent fan to improve the circulation of air and prevent condensation.
- Maintain attic appliances. Typically water heaters are installed in the attic. To prevent any water damage caused by the water heater, make sure it is flushed out regularly. If there is a central A/C unit in the attic, make sure you are checking the condensate drains and making sure that those drains are not clogged up.
Hopefully these tips will help you prevent any water damage from occurring in your attic. Taking the time to inspect all of this free, paying for damages is not. Call SERVPRO for any questions, comments, or concerns about your attic.
Tips For Mold-Free House Siding
10/12/2018 (Permalink)
Here you can see the mold on the siding of the house.
No one wants the outside of their home covered in mold. It could spread inside of your home and it just ruins the look of your beautiful home. Here are some quick tips on how to keep the siding on your house mold free!
- Schedule Regular Cleaning
- Allow Direct Sunlight
- Eliminate Climbing Vines
- Mitigate The Moss
- React Quick When The Mold Is First Spotted
- Direct Sprinklers Away From The House
- Maintain Rain Gutters
- Check Ventilation Ducts
- Invest In Good Insulation
Hopefully after reading these points you are more knowledgeable on how to keep the siding on your house mold free. If your home has a mold problem inside or outside, pick up the phone and call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County and our production crew will take care of that problem in the most professional and efficient way possible.
How To Remove Mold From Clothing
10/12/2018 (Permalink)
As you can see in the picture, mold has found its new home.
Imagine waking up in the morning getting ready for work and you open your closet to find your outfit for the day and realize that your clothes have mold on them. The first thing you should do is asses the severity of it and decide whether this situation calls for a professional or it is okay to deal with at home. You decide to take care of it at home here is what you do to get the mold off of your clothes.
- First things first when handling things with mold, make sure to wear protective gloves to keep mold spores off your skin and wear mask to prevent you from inhaling mold spores
- Next, take the clothes outside with a brush and brush all the mold that you can off the piece of clothing
- Then soak the clothes in cold water to loosen the stains. After that wash them in hot water with your regular detergent and had 3/4 cup of vinegar into the mix. That will sanitize the clothing and eliminate and odor
- Lastly, make sure to completely dry the clothes and with the weather permits, hang the clothes out in the sunlight.
Before putting your newly mold free clothes back into the closet, make sure that the source of the mold growth is taken care of. Call SERVPRO and we will locate the source and take care of your mold problem!
864-576-2430
Attic Water Damage Prevention
10/12/2018 (Permalink)
This attic suffered water damage that was not spotted and treated so it lead to the grow of mold.
Attic water damage has quite a few causes and has multiple consequences as well. Attic water damage can lead to roof repairs, replacement of attic beams, insulation removal, sheetrock replacement, carpet replacement, and many more. Here are some tips to help prevent you from having to replace/repair things in your attic.
- Inspect the roof regularly. When it rains, water may creep under split shingles and make its way into the attic. It ruins the walls and ceilings on its way down.
- Prevent ruptured pipes. Usually the pipe lines run through the attic. If this is the case, make sure to insulate all exposed pipes to prevent them from rupturing over the winter. Also check for any tiny holes and check the joints to make sure that they are still in tact and not leaking.
- Control condensation. If your attic does not have some type of roof vent to circulate the air up there, you might want to look into getting a powered vent fan to improve the circulation of air and prevent condensation.
- Maintain attic appliances. Typically water heaters are installed in the attic. To prevent any water damage caused by the water heater, make sure it is flushed out regularly. If there is a central A/C unit in the attic, make sure you are checking the condensate drains and making sure that those drains are not clogged up.
Hopefully these tips will help you prevent any water damage from occurring in your attic. Taking the time to inspect all of this free, paying for damages is not. Call SERVPRO for any questions, comments, or concerns about your attic.
The Most Common Causes of House Fires
10/12/2018 (Permalink)
This fire was caused by a candle that was burning for too long with no supervision.
According to U.S. Fire Departments, on average there are about 358,500 home structure fires that occur each year. Fires can happen unexpectedly, but there are several common reasons why fires occur.
- Candles
- Washers
- Dryers
- Children playing with fire
- Cooking
- Electrical and Lighting
- Lightning
- Christmas Trees
- Smoking
These are only several causes of a house fire, but there are many more. If you or someone you know has been affected by a fire, let SERVPRO of Spartanburg County be the first person you call to take care of the damages. We provide 24 hour service so our team is always on call and ready to take on any job. We have a certified production team and certified equipment to make sure the job gets done right!
Flood Watch vs Flood Warning
10/11/2018 (Permalink)
This neighborhood had a tremendous amount of water, basically leaving the houses half way under water
You heard it right ladies and gentleman, hurricane season is now in full affect. And that means that there will be a very large amount of rainfall in your area. Flooding is a typical after affect from massive rainfall so it is good to be aware and ready for what is coming. Listen to the news or radio and watch for a flood watch and a flood warning. But what do those mean?
Flood Watch
This is issued before a flood warning. This means that the area you are in is at risk of major floods. It is not guaranteed, but it is better to be safe than sorry and prepare your family and home for a flood.
Flood Warning
If you ever see a flood warning, this means that a flood is basically in the works or it is actually happening. If this is issued by the NWS, the best thing to do is not wait to see how it is and evacuate before it is too late.
You might see other kinds of alerts like Flash Flood Warnings, Hurricane Watch, Hurricane Warning, etc. It is important to know what the situation is so stay updated on the latest news.
Unfortunately, you cannot take your home or business with you when you evacuate so make sure you have someone in mind that will come repair and restore and damages caused to your home or business. Here at SERVPRO we will restore your home and make it "Like it never even happened."
How to Prepare for a Power Outage After a Storm
10/11/2018 (Permalink)
There are many causes of power outages, always be prepared.
Affects of Power Outages
Power outages affects the whole community. A power outage is when electrical power goes out. This can occur if there is a big storm, problems with the electrical power lines, high power demand, etc. A power outage may:
- disrupt communication, water, and transportation
- shut down grocery stores, banks, ATMs, gas stations, and other services
- cause food to spoil to water contamination
Protecting Yourself
- Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges
- If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling
- Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices
- Keep freezers and refrigerators closed
How To Prepare
- Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.
- Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
- Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. Monitor weather reports.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home.
- Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.
- Review the supplies that are available in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member. Have enough nonperishable food and water.
- Use a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer so that you can know the temperature when the power is restored. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
- Keep mobile phones and other electric equipment charged and gas tanks full.
Spartanburg 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service
10/10/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Spartanburg, SC.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County 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 - (864)576-2430
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 Spartanburg County 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 Spartanburg County
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County 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.
10 Tips To Help Prevent a House Fire
9/28/2018 (Permalink)
This pictures show a grease fire in a kitchen.
Here at SERVPRO we want to make sure that everyone is safe. Below are some tips on how to prevent a fire from causing major damage to your home.
- Never leave your pots or pans unattended on your stove.
- Keep a kitchen fire extinguisher readily available and know how to use it.
- Clean out the dryer vent regularly
- Avoid using an older space heater
- Do not place a space heater near furniture, curtains or other objects that could easily catch fire
- When purchasing a new space heater, ensure it is UL Listed and pay attention to the safety features
- Have your chimney inspected annually by a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)-certified chimney sweep
- Check the electrical cords throughout your home for signs of fraying, and replace all frayed wires
- Be aware of the capacity of your home's electrical system. Do not overload your circuits
- Understand the difference between surge protectors and power strips—both allow you to plug in multiple electronic devices, but only the surge protector will help protect these devices from a power spike.
Hopefully after reading these 10 tips, you understand some common mistakes that people make that can lead to a house fire. For more information regarding house fires, talk to your home insurance carrier.
Unfortunately mistakes happen, and if you are affected by a fire give SERVPRO of Spartanburg County a call and we will make sure to restore your home and make it " Like it never even happened."
Call Us Today!
864-576-2430
How To Increase Chances of Preventing Mold
9/21/2018 (Permalink)
An example of where mold can grow.
Prevent Mold By Preventing Moisture
Mold needs 24-48 hours of moisture to start to grow. If an item is wet for more than 24 hours, you are running a high risk of mold growth.
Prevent Water Leaks
Making sure that water leaks are taken care of soon before the moisture build up can cause mold to grow in the affected area. Also condensation can cause moisture.
Reduce Moisture
Mold starts to grow when the humidity level is more that 55%. To prevent high humidity levels, make sure there is proper ventilation throughout the home. Opening windows on a hot day and closing them when it rains is a good way to reduce humidity. In the bathrooms, and exhaust fan will reduce the moisture caused by the steam after a hot shower.
Wet Clothes
A common cause of moisture problems in homes are wet clothes. It is better to hang wet clothes outside if not using a dryer because the water on the wet clothes will evaporate inside the home, which increases the humidity and increases the risk of mold growth. If using a dryer, make sure to exhaust the air outdoors.
Cleaning To Prevent Mold
Mold grows on most organic materials inside a home. Some examples of organic materials include wood, carpet, food, insulation, wallpaper, furniture, leather, etc. Making sure your home is dust and grime free well help prevent mold because mold loves dust. The only way that mold can grow on metal, plastic, or glass is if dust is present. Dusting and vacuuming regularly will help out tremendously.
Sunlight Is Key
Mold loves to grow in dark spaces indoors. Sunlight will reduce the chances of mold growth. Something as simple as opening the curtains throughout the day can help prevent mold from growing indoors.
And lastly, warm humid conditions and mold are best friends. Most mold grows when the temperature hits 70 degrees Fahrenheit, so keeping your home cool will lower the risk of mold growth.
If you have a mold problem, call us at 864-576-2430.
Collateral Affects of Fire Damage
9/20/2018 (Permalink)
In the picture you can see the soot build up in the bathroom stall.
After A Fire
Beside smoke and the obvious damaged contents, have you ever wondered what problems a fire caused in your home? You might see black stains on your walls and on other items around your home and not just in the location of the fire. That is what is called soot.
What Is Soot?
Soot includes the fine black particles, composed of carbon, produced by incomplete combustion of coal, oil, wood, or other fuels. Soot can consist of acids, chemicals, metals, soils, and dust. You may not know, but soot is very dangerous and can cause death. Along side smoke, the combination of both can cause problems for your home and yourself.
How To Find Smoke And Soot
Smoke left behind because of the fire is easy to find because of the smell. Soot you can actually see with your own eyes. But do not just stop looking for soot on surfaces, look deeper. Soot will attach to anything in its path, but can also in fact get inside items like your mattress. The soot can be removed from the surface of your mattress, but if it is still inside your mattress, that smell will last forever so be on the look out. And this is all caused by the water that extinguishes the fire. It reacts with the soot and spreads even more.
If you are hit by a fire, pick up the phone and call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County and our certified production crew will make sure to clean everything up! 864-576-2430
Tips That Will Help You Until Help Arrives After Fire & Smoke Damage
9/10/2018 (Permalink)
Smoke Damage Can Cause Serious Damage In Your Spartanburg County Home or Business
DO:
- Limit your movement inside the home in order prevent soot into your upholstery & carpet
- make it a priority to keep your hands clean at all times
- If your power is off, be sure to empty your fridge and freezer and leave the unit’s doors open to help eliminate potential odors
- While you SHOULD change your HVAC filter, it is best to leave the system off until a trained professional can check the system
- Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of HVAC system
DON’T:
- Pursue to wash walls or any painted surfaces before first contacting SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
- Make an effort to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without consulting SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
- Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to the fire, heat or water as they may indeed be contaminated
- Attempt to send any garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may lead to smoking odor setting into the garment.
- Try to turn on any ceiling fixtures if your ceiling is still wet. It is best to contact SERVPRO of Spartanburg County before any action is taken
If you have any questions give us a call (864)576-2430
Spartanburg Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold
9/10/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County knows what to do if mold grows in your home.
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of Spartanburg County for mold remediation services.
What Not to Do:
- Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
- Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
- Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
- Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 864.576.2430
Mold Mitigation and Remediation
9/10/2018 (Permalink)
Let us keep you safe and get rid of your mold infestation!
SERVPRO Franchise Professionals work to control and remove mold contaminants while protecting the health and safety of building occupants.
Mold Facts
- Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
- Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
- Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
- Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
- Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
- Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
Limiting Mold Growth
" Moisture control is key to mold control. When water leaks or spills occurs indoors, act promptly... A prompt response (24-48 hours) and thorough clean-up, drying, and/or removal of water-damaged materials will prevent or limit mold growth."
-OSHA
How SERVPRO Responds
The SERVPRO team has specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation. With remediation, SERVPRO reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline mold.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today- 864.576.2430
SERVPRO is ready to Respond Faster to Any Size Disaster in Spartanburg
9/10/2018 (Permalink)
We respond faster to any size disaster here at SERVPRO
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained both in the classroom and countless years of on the job experience. Regardless of the size of disaster you are left to deal with, our team uses specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is locally owned and operated so we are rooted right here in beautiful Spartanburg County. Rest assured though, when storms hit Spartanburg County, we can our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (864)576-2430
Commercial Property Clean-Up Crew
9/10/2018 (Permalink)
Commercial Water Damage clean-up and restoration
Flooding and water damage events at Spartanburg commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we're dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges
Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
What SERVPRO Can Do For You: Commercial Cleaning Edition
9/10/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Commercial Cleaning and Restoration Services.
Fire, Smoke, and Soot Cleanup and Restoration
- Pretesting helps SERVPRO Franchise Professionals determine what type of fire has taken place. Knowing the types of smoke and their behavior patterns are vital to proper restoration.
Water Removal ad Dehumidification
- Franchise Professionals identify the source and type of water, which determines the proper course of action. Drying equipment controls temperature and humidity, minimizing secondary damage.
Crime Scene, Biohazard, and Vandalism Cleanup
- Franchise Technicians are trained to safely and effectively clean biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state local heath regulations.
Mold Mitigation and Remediation
- SERVPRO Franchise Professionals work to control and remediate mold contaminants while protecting your health and safety.
Contents Claim Inventory Service
- Accurate inventory helps keep costs low and reduces job completion time. Franchise Professionals can provide an itemized, area-by-area loss inventory.
Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning
- Franchise Professionals can inspect your HVAC system and ductwork. Cleaning services can be provided to help restore peak energy efficiency, eliminate offensive odors and improve indoor air quality.
Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning Care
- Franchise Professionals use the latest IICRC training as well as state-of-the-art equipment to remove entrapped soils from deep within your carpet's pile and backings.
Stain Removal, Stain Resistance Applications
- Using IICRC standards for carpet as a guide, Franchise Professionals will show you what cleaning option would be best for your carpet's level of soiling and explain the benefits of soil protection.
Odor Identification and Deodorization
- Franchise Professionals will find the source of the odor and determine the best methods to neutralize and eliminate it.
Upholstery and Drapes: Wet or Dry Cleaning Methods
- Fabrics are inspected and tested to determine the safest and most effective cleaning method.
For All Your Commercial Needs, Contact Us! 864.576.2430
Before, During, and After a Hurricane
9/10/2018 (Permalink)
Hurricanes are very powerful and dangerous. Make sure you are prepared so you can avoid immense damages.
You heard it right everyone, hurricane season is here. Our team here at SERVPRO of Spartanburg County want to make sure everyone is well equipped with information on how to stay safe before, during and after the storm. Here are some tips to help you out.
Before
- Create a family emergency plan
- Create an emergency medical kit
- Know the elevation level of your location and be aware of potential hazards that could lead to a flood
- Add protective layer over all windows such as shutter or even marine plywood
- Fasten roof with clips or straps
- Trim trees and bushes
- clean gutters and downspouts to prevent clogging
- Install generator for emergencies
During
- DO NOT wander around outside during the storm
- Pay close attention to the TV or the weather radio station for updates
- Do not evacuate unless told by and offical
- Turn off propane tanks
- Turn all refrigerators to the lowest temperature
- Stay away from windows and any electrical equipment
- Close all interior doors and brace all external doors
After
- Continue to listen to the weather radio
- Do not drive unless it is necessary and avoid flooded roads/ washed out bridges
- Do not return home unless cleared by officials
- Carefully inspect for gas leaks, loose power lines, and structural damages
- Do not enter the building if you smell and a gas leak, see fire damage, or flooding
- Take pictures of damages for insurance purposes.
After looking over these tips, hopefully you have a better understanding on what to do and not to do before, during and after a major storm like a hurricane.
Contact SERVPRO of Spartanburg County for any Cleaning or Restoration Needs! 864.576.2430
If Disaster Strikes Your Business In Spartanburg Your Response Time Is Critical
9/10/2018 (Permalink)
WHAT SERVPRO OF SPARTANBURG COUNTY CAN DO FOR YOU
Fire, Smoke and Sook Cleanup and Restoration
- Pretesting helps determine what type of fire takes place. Knowing what type of smoke and their behavior patterns are vital to proper restoration.
Water Removal and Dehumidification
- We'll identify the source and type of water, which determines the proper course of action. Drying equipment controls temperature and humidity, minimizing secondary damage.
Odor Identification and Deodorization
- We find the source of the odor and determine the best methods to neutralize and eliminate it.
Mold Mitigation and Remediation
- We work to control and remediate mold contaminants while protecting your health and safety.
Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning
- We inspect your HVAC system and ductwork. Cleaning services can be provided to help restore peak energy efficiency, eliminate offensive odors and improve indoor air quality.
Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning and Care
- SERVPRO of Spartanburg County Professionals use the latest IICRC training as well as state of the art equipment to remove entrapped soils from deep within your carpet's pile and backings.
Upholstry and Drapes: Wet or Dry Cleaning Methods
- Fabrics are inspected and tested to determine the safest and most effective cleaning method.
At SERVPRO of Spartanburg County, we know Time is a precious commodity. So do not hesitate calling our office in your time of need 864.576.2430
Spartanburg County Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup & Restoration
9/8/2018 (Permalink)
Water damages are no fun. SERVPRO of Spartanburg extracted and commenced the drying process as soon as possible to ensure dry floors.
Dorian might have not affected us this month but, That does not mean heavy rainfall has potential to cause a flood in your home or basement. Continue reading to find out what can causes a disaster like a flood and what SERVPRO of Spartanburg County can do you for you!
A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Spartanburg basement could flood, including:
- A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
- Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
- Storm sewer backup
- Sanitary sewer backup
- Foundation drainage failure
- Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
- And many more
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today - (864)576-2430
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Spartanburg County and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.
We are Flooded Basement Specialists:
- We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
- We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
- We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
- Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
- We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
- Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment
Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (864)576-2430
Conditions In Spartanburg County Might Be Right For Mold
9/8/2018 (Permalink)
It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.
If the right conditions exist, mold will grow. Those conditions include:
- Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.
- Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
- Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.
Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.
If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.
If you suspect mold, call us today at 864-576-2430
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of Spartanburg County for mold remediation services.
Flooded Basement in Spartanburg County
8/14/2018 (Permalink)
This flooded basement was caused by a recent storm.
A water main break caused this basement in Spartanburg, SC to flood. This before picture shows the mess left behind after all water had receded.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County was called in to clean up the aftermath! The owner was thrilled she said "This basement never looked this good in the 24 years I've owned this Property". If you are dealing with the aftermath of a water main break or a busted pipe, we are here to help. Let our local professionally certified team make it "Like it never even happened."
What To Do When Dealing With The Aftermath Of Storm Damage
8/8/2018 (Permalink)
Have you or someone you know been affected by all these afternoon storms this summer? SERVPRO of Spartanburg County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Being locally owned and operated means we are right around the corner, and able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. Why is it important to respond to an emergency quickly you ask?
- Lessens the damage
- Limits further damage
- Reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Spartanburg County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises locations across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether you have an emergency or in need of general cleaning, we will be faster to any sized disaster with the training and resources to handle damages ranging from single family homes to skyrise building structures.
Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today 864.576.2430
Smoke & Soot Cleanup
8/8/2018 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Spartanburg County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today
(864)576-8500
Restoring Your Spartanburg Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event
7/2/2018 (Permalink)
Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges
Flooding and water damage events at Spartanburg commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges
Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Spartanburg Home
7/2/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County 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 Spartanburg County
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County 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.
Check Out Our Residential Carpet Cleaning Special!
5/7/2018 (Permalink)
Leon Cleaning Carpet "Like it Never Even Happened"
Have you incurred water or other liquids soaking up your carpet? Do you have unsightly stains that haunt you or embarrass you when you have company over? Or do you just want to enhance your spring cleaning efforts? Well, we have great news: SERVPRO of Spartanburg County has just the solution for you!
We have a current special running where our highly skilled, experienced production crew will come out and clean your carpets (3 rooms and 1 hallway) for just $115! That's right; in just a couple of hours, your carpet can look brand new again. When you take advantage of this great deal, you'll thank yourself for trusting our cleaning specialists with your carpet. Just look at the difference in this photo! Leon, as well as the rest of our crew, pays close attention to details and makes sure that the job is done in the most efficient and satisfactory way possible.
If you would like one of our outstanding crew members to come revive your carpet, call us today to set up an appointment! (864) 576-2430
Questions to Ask When Your Business Incurs Disaster
5/7/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO: Here to Help
As a business owner and or employee, you obviously have a lot on your plate at any given time; whether it's finances, day-to-day operations, logistics, coworker relations, or anything within the realm of running a business. The list is exhaustive and the world around us often molds our businesses and how we operate.
At SERVPRO of Spartanburg County, we would like to get those gears churning today to get you thinking about the side no one ever wants to face...the side we are talking about is the inevitable fact that eventually, something inside of the well-oiled machine that is your business will experience failure and cause a big mess. Either that or a natural disaster will strike, whether it be a storm or some other type of unforeseeable act of nature.
With that said, here are a few questions you may want to ask yourself to help you in mitigating/preparing for such occurrences, as well as how to be proactive and prepared in the event that disaster strikes.
1. "Do we have an emergency plan outlined?" This is something every business should have, regardless of what it is you do. Disaster does not discriminate, and when it strikes, you need to have a plan mapped out for who to call, where emergency exits are located, and how to properly evacuate the building of any persons inside, if applicable.
2. "If something were to happen, how long could we go without operating before we start to see significant loss in revenues/production/etc.?" Make sure you are aware of how much time lost you can incur before you start to see significant loss in your day-to-day operations. Make sure you have plenty of money and or inventory saved up in case the restoration process takes a while to get your operations back to full capacity. (Just keep in mind, SERVPRO is available 24/7 for emergency services, so if you need your operations back up and running ASAP, we can be there to start the restoration process within 24 hours or less.)
3. "What will happen in regards to my contents if they are affected?" Here at SERVPRO, we are dedicated to giving our best effort to save as many of your contents as possible. If it has any chance of being salvaged, we will work tirelessly to save your contents so you don't have to file it with your insurance company.
4. "How can I ensure that I am mitigating to the best of my abilities to avoid disaster?" Routine maintenance is always a good choice; looking to make sure your facilities and machinery are running properly is never a bad idea. Constant cleaning and making sure items stay where they belong and not somewhere that could be potentially hazardous is a simple and effective step. Another way to stay sharp is to simply educate yourself. SERVPRO offers Continuing Education (CE) courses on aspects such as fire, water, smoke, and mold damage. These courses are both engaging and informative, which will enlighten you on what to look for in terms of mitigation as well as what to do when disaster strikes, in terms of restoration.
5. "What do we do after emergency personnel leave? What now?" This is where SERVPRO comes into play! If you have any sort of damage from a disaster, do not hesitate to call us. Our mission is to serve you and give our best effort to make it "like it never even happened." As stated above, we are available 24/7 for emergencies, just one phone call away from having the help you deserve and need.
Tips for a great 2018 for our friends in Spartanburg County
2/9/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County wants you to start the New Year off right by taking some steps to help insure a safe and happy 2018. Here are some tips that may help!
- Do not wait for daylight savings time to check your smoke detector. All smoke detectors have a manufacturing date on them. If that date over 10 years old, replace it! Also if your home has gas or oil heat it is a good idea to invest in a carbon monoxide detector.
- What was learned with the Gatlinburg fire is that there is not always time to gather things when an evacuation is required. Keep a prepacked bag handy with some cash, changes of clothes, medications, copies of important documents, etc.
- Have your family practice fire drills to make sure everyone knows how to escape, what to do and where to meet should a fire occur.
- If you are travelling and will be away for several days, please be sure to turn off the water so you do not come home to any surprises. Also, lower your thermostat but do not turn off the heat if there is a chance of freezing temperatures.
- If you are using rubber hoses for the water supply to your washing machine, they need to be replaced every 5 years. Consider using steel braided hoses as they are much more durable than rubber ones.
- Periodically check the water supply lines on ice makers and dish washers for signs of wear and replace when needed.
- Keep a properly rated fire extinguisher in your kitchen and be sure to have them checked periodically by a professional.
- Make sure you know where the critical shutoffs are in your home for main power, water and gas if applicable.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County wishes you a wonderful and prosperous 2018!!
Flooding and Water Emergencies in Spartanburg
2/9/2018 (Permalink)
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 864-576-2430
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
- Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
- Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
- Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
- Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
- Drywall begins to swell and break down.
- Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
- Furniture begins to swell and crack.
- Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
- A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
- Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
- Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
- Metal begins to rust and corrode.
- Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
- Paint begins to blister.
- Wood flooring swells and warps.
- Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
- Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
- Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
About SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County 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
When Storms or Floods hit Spartanburg County, SERVPRO is ready!!
2/9/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Spartanburg County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether it is an emergency or a general cleaning, give us a call!!
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 864.576.2430
Spartanburg County Smoke and Soot Cleanup
2/9/2018 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Spartanburg County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – 864.576.2430
DIY Home Improvement Tips for our friends in Spartanburg County!
2/9/2018 (Permalink)
With all of this wet weather we have had it may be a good time to do some projects indoors. Thanks to our friends at AARP, here is a list of 10 indoor home improvement projects to consider! Thanks again for trusting SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
http://www.aarp.org/money/budgeting-saving/info-10-2013/indoor-home-improvement-fixes-photo.html#slide1
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. We provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. With the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs, we’re locally owned and operated and can respond immediately to your emergency. Call us at 864.576.2430!
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is also available for your carpet and tile cleaning needs!! Please call us today for a free consultation and estimate.
Does Your Spartanburg County Home Have A Mold Problem?
2/9/2018 (Permalink)
Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:
- Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
- Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
- Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
- Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
- Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
- Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 864.576.2430
Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Spartanburg County
6/22/2017 (Permalink)
Hurricane season is upon us and believe us it only takes one storm to change your life and community. Tropical cyclones are among nature’s most powerful and destructive phenomena. If you live in an area prone to tropical cyclones, you need to be prepared. Even areas well away from the coastline can be threatened by dangerous flooding, destructive winds and tornadoes from these storms.
Determine Your Risk
Hurricanes bring many hazards to U.S. coastlines and inland areas, including storm surge along the coast, inland flooding due to heavy rainfall, tornadoes, strong wind, rip currents and large waves.
Develop an Evacuation Plan
Find out today if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone. Plan where you’ll go and how you would get there. Leave immediately if ordered to evacuate and be sure to plan for your pets.
Assemble Disaster Supplies
Get your supplies before hurricane season begins. Have enough food and water for each person for at least one week. Be sure to fill your prescriptions and have medicine on hand. Radios, batteries and phone chargers are also must haves. Gas up your vehicle and extra cash on hand.
Get Insurance Checkup
Check in with your insurance agent well before hurricane season, remember that flood insurance must be obtained separately. Prepare your home/vehicles according to your policy, and know where your insurance documents are located – take them with you if you evacuate. Visit floodsmart.gov for more information.
Strengthen Your Home
There is a lot you can do around your home to help protect it from the strong winds that come with hurricanes. Well ahead of the approaching storm, trim trees on your property, shop for approved window coverings, collect loose outdoor items, secure all doors on you property, and find a safe location for your vehicle.
Help Your Neighbor
Many people reply on the assistance of neighbors before and after hurricanes. Help your neighbors collect the supplies they’ll need before the storm. Assist them with evacuation if ordered to do so or check on them after it’s safe for you to head outside.
Complete your Written Plan
Writing down your plan will help you avoid mistakes when faces with an emergency and ensure everyone in your home is prepared for the next storm.
Vacation Preparation From SERVPRO of Spartanburg County!
5/24/2017 (Permalink)
Well it's that time of the year again, school is out and that family vacation is just around the corner. While you are checking off that list for stuff that you need to take with you such as sunscreen and sandals make sure you check off what you are leaving behind.
It's happens year after year, we receive that dreaded phone call from the neighbor. "I'm calling because my neighbors are out of town and water has been running out of their house since yesterday."
Time and time again we seem too busy planning on how much we have to do on vacation we forget to protect our house before we leave. Accidents happen all the time ranging from broken pipes and toilets causing major water damage to coffee makers and hair dryers causing fire and soot damage.
Below you will find some helpful hints to prevent that return trip from being an unplanned extreme home makeover.
Water Damage Prevention
-turn power off to hot water heater
-turn pilot light off to hot water heater (when applicable)
-use a shop vac and vacuum the HVAC drain line from the exterior side of house
-turn off main water supply to house
-after turning off water turn on outside water spigot to drain lines
Fire Damage Prevention
-check batteries in smoke detectors
-turn off gas lines (when applicable)
-unplug any unnecessary electronic devices such as coffee makes, toasters, hair dryer and phone chargers
Mold Prevention
-DO NOT raise the temperature on the thermostat to save money. By raising the temperature you also raise the humidity levels which can in turn can cause mold growth within 48 to 72 hours. Keep thermostat 77 degrees and below.
What To Do If Floods Hit Spartanburg County!
5/22/2017 (Permalink)
When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO Franchise 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.
What do SERVPRO Franchise Professionals do?
Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
Highly Trained Water Restoration Specialists
Faster to Any Size Disaster
A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
Preferred Vendor for Many National and Local Insurance Companies
Have Questions? Call Today 1-864-576-2430
Every water damage situation is a little different, and requires a unique solution.
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.
What To Do If You Find Mold in Spartanburg County!
5/22/2017 (Permalink)
In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.
Have a Mold Problem? Call Today 1-864-576-2430
If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:
- Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
- Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
- A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact a SERVPRO Franchise Professional for mold remediation services.
What NOT to Do:
- Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
- Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
- Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
- Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.
Call SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
864-576-2430
Does Your Spartanburg County Home Have A Mold Problem?
2/2/2017 (Permalink)
Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:
- Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
- Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
- Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
- Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
- Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
- Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 864.576.2430
DIY Home Improvement Tips for our friends in Spartanburg County!
1/25/2017 (Permalink)
With all of this wet weather we have had it may be a good time to do some projects indoors. Thanks to our friends at AARP, here is a list of 10 indoor home improvement projects to consider! Thanks again for trusting SERVPRO of Spartanburg County.
http://www.aarp.org/money/budgeting-saving/info-10-2013/indoor-home-improvement-fixes-photo.html#slide1
SERVPRO of Spartanburg is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. We provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. With the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs, we’re locally owned and operated and can respond immediately to your emergency. Call us at 864.576.2430!
SERVPRO of Spartanburg is also available for your carpet and tile cleaning needs!! Please call us today for a free consultation and estimate.
Spartanburg County Smoke and Soot Cleanup
1/13/2017 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Spartanburg County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 864.576.2430
When Storms or Floods hit Spartanburg County, SERVPRO is ready!!
1/13/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Spartanburg County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether it is an emergency or a general cleaning, give us a call!!
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 864.576.2430
Flooding and Water Emergencies in Spartanburg
1/4/2017 (Permalink)
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Spartanburg County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 864-576-2430
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
- Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
- Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
- Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
- Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
- Drywall begins to swell and break down.
- Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
- Furniture begins to swell and crack.
- Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
- A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
- Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
- Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
- Metal begins to rust and corrode.
- Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
- Paint begins to blister.
- Wood flooring swells and warps.
- Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
- Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
- Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
About SERVPRO of Spartanburg County
SERVPRO of Spartanburg County 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