"May every day of the new year glow with good cheer and happiness for you and your family"
SERVICE RESPONSE GUIDELINES
Within one hour from notice
of loss, a SERVPRO Franchise
Professional will contact you
to arrange for service.
Within four hours of loss
notification, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services (if necessary).
Within eight business hours,
a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person by a SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
*Exceptions may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation.
RECIPE - Cranberry Orange Cookies
"A nice thing to have around during the holidays, but don't expect them to stay around long. These orange-flavored cranberry cookies are tart and delicious, not to mention beautiful."
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
2 tablespoons orange juice
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups chopped cranberries
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
3 tablespoons orange juice
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg until well blended. Mix in 1 teaspoon orange zest and 2 tablespoons orange juice. Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; stir into the orange mixture. Mix in cranberries and if using, walnuts, until evenly distributed. Drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets. Cookies should be spaced at least 2 inches apart.
3. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes in the preheated oven, until the edges are golden. Remove from cookie sheets to cool on wire racks.
4. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 teaspoon orange zest, 3 tablespoons orange juice and confectioners' sugar until smooth. Spread over the tops of cooled cookies. Let stand until set. recipe source
Emergency Ready Profile
The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it NOW.
Avoid Christmas Hosting Disasters
Christmas Hosting Disasters and How to Avoid Them
Common things that can go wrong when you have holiday guests and learn how to prevent them.
Problem: The kitchen sink clogsChristmas is a busy time of year. The main cause of this clog is the mistreatment of drains during holiday cooking . Avoid the clog-fest this Christmas by following a few simple steps.
How to avoid:
- Fats and cooking oils can solidify in your pipes, so never dispose of them in your kitchen sink.
- Make sure the garbage disposal is running before anything goes in it, and do not send stringy, fibrous, or starchy foods like poultry skins or potato peels down the disposal.
- Don’t try fixing clogged sink drain with chemical drain-clearing products that can harm your pipes. Call your plumber, or if you feel capable, use a snake instead, available at hardware stores.
Problem: The heat goes out.
As the party’s host, you’re supposed to hang guests’ coats—not apologize to them for having to keep them on. A lack of heat can stop a Christmas party dead in its tracks.
How to avoid:
- Replace your furnace filter every 6 months and get a professional in for regular maintenance of your HVAC.
- Check out insulation on refrigerant lines that are leading into your house. Replace missing or damaged insulation.
Problem: The toilet stops up
Toilets have a way of clogging up at the worst times, such as during parties and when you have overnight guests. This is especially true if you have a low-flow toilet.
How to avoid:
- Don’t flush anything other than sewage and toilet paper down the toilet. And there’s nothing wrong with putting up a polite note to remind your guests to do the same. Keep a toilet plunger handy, just in case.
Article Source: http://www.foxph.com/blog/avoid-christmas-hosting-disasters/
Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning
Every homeowner wants to come home to a clean house. To do that, they maintain the interior, exterior and even hire services to repair any broken appliances or units that can affect the quality of the home. Unfortunately, one thing homeowners neglect or do not even realize is the fact of air duct cleaning. Cleaning contains numerous benefits and is an integral part of routine home maintenance.
How Often Should the Cleaning be Done?
Air duct cleaning is typically done once every three to five years - depending on the current condition of the home and the HVAC unit used. Older units can cause more debris and build-up over time, while newer units do not have the same amount of dust, debris and openings to allow vermin to enter.
Cost Savings
Though cleaning is a big upfront price tag, it is important to remember that it is done only once every three to five years; therefore, it pays off overtime. Furthermore, air duct cleaning allows air to move more freely through the ventilation system, which means less strain on an HVAC system and less energy costs to operate it.
Longer-Lasting System
HVAC units will break if they are not regularly maintained. Part of their maintenance is using cleaning services to remove debris and build-up that makes an HVAC machine work harder. With the rising cost of replacement parts or services, it is imperative that homeowners maintain their system to prevent having to repair or even replace an entire HVAC unit down the road.
Air Quality Improvement
With less dust, debris, dander and particles floating through the air, the air will be cleaner, crisper and easier to breathe. This is especially important for individuals who suffer from asthma or allergies and need cleaner air. Members of the family who do not have allergies can still suffer from allergy symptoms when the air is riddled with dust and debris.
Odor Removal
As dust, mold and mildew build up in ventilation and return systems; the home can start to have a stale, musty odor. By cleaning out the ducts using air duct cleaning, these smells are eliminated and often the air cleaning service will utilize a deodorant and disinfectant to make sure the smells stay away after the initial cleaning.
Air duct cleaning has numerous benefits for the home, but the biggest being air quality. Any homeowner who notices a musty odor in their home should have their vents inspected - regardless if they end up having them cleaned.
How Often Should the Cleaning be Done?
Air duct cleaning is typically done once every three to five years - depending on the current condition of the home and the HVAC unit used. Older units can cause more debris and build-up over time, while newer units do not have the same amount of dust, debris and openings to allow vermin to enter.
Cost Savings
Though cleaning is a big upfront price tag, it is important to remember that it is done only once every three to five years; therefore, it pays off overtime. Furthermore, air duct cleaning allows air to move more freely through the ventilation system, which means less strain on an HVAC system and less energy costs to operate it.
Longer-Lasting System
HVAC units will break if they are not regularly maintained. Part of their maintenance is using cleaning services to remove debris and build-up that makes an HVAC machine work harder. With the rising cost of replacement parts or services, it is imperative that homeowners maintain their system to prevent having to repair or even replace an entire HVAC unit down the road.
Air Quality Improvement
With less dust, debris, dander and particles floating through the air, the air will be cleaner, crisper and easier to breathe. This is especially important for individuals who suffer from asthma or allergies and need cleaner air. Members of the family who do not have allergies can still suffer from allergy symptoms when the air is riddled with dust and debris.
Odor Removal
As dust, mold and mildew build up in ventilation and return systems; the home can start to have a stale, musty odor. By cleaning out the ducts using air duct cleaning, these smells are eliminated and often the air cleaning service will utilize a deodorant and disinfectant to make sure the smells stay away after the initial cleaning.
Air duct cleaning has numerous benefits for the home, but the biggest being air quality. Any homeowner who notices a musty odor in their home should have their vents inspected - regardless if they end up having them cleaned.
Looking for experts to solve your air duct cleaning needs? Visit our local service providers website for air duct cleaning [http://www.air-duct-cleaning-batavia.com//] near you.
Understanding Smoke Damage
What is smoke?
To understand smoke damage, you first need to understand what smoke is. In short, fire burns fuel to create heat and light. When the fire is able to burn only part of a fuel source, the tiny particles that comprise the remainder of that fuel source get carried into the air as smoke. For example, high quality candles are "smokeless" whereas low-quality candles are made with wax containing material that cannot be completely combusted by the flame, thus resulting in smoke.
The smoke is carried until one of two things happens: either it encounters a vertical surface (such as a wall) where heat and air currents push it onto the surface, or the smoke cools and falls onto a horizontal surface, such as the floor or furniture.
Of course, ventilation systems can also pull smoke into the air ducts that connect to every room of your house. The smoke from the air being pushed and pulled through the system forces the smoke onto the ducts' surfaces, thus trapping part of it in your ventilation system.
The damage from smoke
The damage most associated with smoke is odor. Even in relatively minor fires, it is common for smoke to get drawn into a home's ventilation system where some it will remain trapped and provide a constant source of odor throughout the house. For this reason, it is almost always essential to hire a restoration company to clean it.
However, smoke damage goes far beyond an unpleasant odor. In most fires, many materials besides wood are burned, including plastics, fabrics, and potentially toxic household chemicals. Because of this, the ash from fires has varying levels of acidity. This can cause damage in the form of corrosion or discoloration. While certain materials are more susceptible to damage in a short period of time, even metals will suffer with prolonged exposure.
Cleaning the damage
A significant house fire will release hazardous chemicals and create an unsafe environment that only a trained professional equipped with proper safety gear should spend time in. Damage to all surfaces will need to be cleaned to restore the home to a safe state, including the walls, floors, attic and crawl spaces.
As for the items in in the house, many can be cleaned by hand using soap and water (or other material-appropriate cleaners). Precious items, such as art, may need to be taken to an appropriate restoration company to prevent additional damage caused by improperly cleaning them.
To understand smoke damage, you first need to understand what smoke is. In short, fire burns fuel to create heat and light. When the fire is able to burn only part of a fuel source, the tiny particles that comprise the remainder of that fuel source get carried into the air as smoke. For example, high quality candles are "smokeless" whereas low-quality candles are made with wax containing material that cannot be completely combusted by the flame, thus resulting in smoke.
The smoke is carried until one of two things happens: either it encounters a vertical surface (such as a wall) where heat and air currents push it onto the surface, or the smoke cools and falls onto a horizontal surface, such as the floor or furniture.
Of course, ventilation systems can also pull smoke into the air ducts that connect to every room of your house. The smoke from the air being pushed and pulled through the system forces the smoke onto the ducts' surfaces, thus trapping part of it in your ventilation system.
The damage from smoke
The damage most associated with smoke is odor. Even in relatively minor fires, it is common for smoke to get drawn into a home's ventilation system where some it will remain trapped and provide a constant source of odor throughout the house. For this reason, it is almost always essential to hire a restoration company to clean it.
However, smoke damage goes far beyond an unpleasant odor. In most fires, many materials besides wood are burned, including plastics, fabrics, and potentially toxic household chemicals. Because of this, the ash from fires has varying levels of acidity. This can cause damage in the form of corrosion or discoloration. While certain materials are more susceptible to damage in a short period of time, even metals will suffer with prolonged exposure.
Cleaning the damage
A significant house fire will release hazardous chemicals and create an unsafe environment that only a trained professional equipped with proper safety gear should spend time in. Damage to all surfaces will need to be cleaned to restore the home to a safe state, including the walls, floors, attic and crawl spaces.
As for the items in in the house, many can be cleaned by hand using soap and water (or other material-appropriate cleaners). Precious items, such as art, may need to be taken to an appropriate restoration company to prevent additional damage caused by improperly cleaning them.
Written by the owner of http://www.lonestarrestoration.com/ This article can be reproduced in whole or in part, providing this byline is included along with a followable link to http://www.lonestarrestoration.com/.
Understanding Mold and Water Damage Coverage
Homeowners insurance is not only important for securing your home and valuables, it can be extremely important for your peace of mind. Unfortunately, choosing the right company to purchase your insurance from can be confusing and frustrating.
There are several important exclusions from the basic homeowner's policy that every homeowner should be aware of. Mold is one of the most prominent. In many humid and wet climates, most homeowners are almost assured to run into mold problems at some point. It is important that you take steps to minimize or even prevent damage if possible.
Mold can be insidious, and has many sources. A burst pipe, damage from a storm, or rising water can cause mold, or even improper ventilation can lead to an infestation of mold. No matter the source, insurance coverage for either mold or water damage varies a great deal with different policies, or can be excluded altogether. Some insurers offer ten thousand dollars of limited coverage, but a higher amount is available for those who are interested. Any changes have to have been approved by the States Office of Insurance Regulation.
Some ways to limit the damage, or prevent it are:
- Address any source of moisture immediately if at all possible
- Quickly see to any reasonable and necessary repairs
- If feasible, remove any moisture. If the damage is severe enough, call a water extraction company.
- If possible, move soiled items to a secure and dry area
- Pull up wet rugs or carpets as soon as possible
- Increase air circulation around wet areas
No matter what steps you take, keep detailed and accurate records, including receipts. Take photographs from every possible angle to document the damage, even during repairs. Retain any damaged articles unless your insurance company instructs you to dispose of them. Speak with your agent or broker to give verbal and written notice of the damage. Then you can determine if your loss is covered and by how much.
It is in your best interest to prevent or decrease the amount of damage as much as possible, especially when mold is involved. Insurance claims that include mold damage are significantly higher than those without. Certain molds pose not only a risk for property damage, but significant health risks as well. Many individuals have a negative reaction to mold spores, and some types of mold will cause a reaction in anyone exposed.
Protect your home, and your family. Minimize the potential for mold damage by securing your home from flooding or excess moisture. In the event that you incur water damage beyond your control make sure to take the appropriate steps in handling any further damage. Make sure you read your insurance policy carefully so that you know your options concerning water or mold damage. If you have any questions or concerns make sure to speak with your agent or broker.
There are several important exclusions from the basic homeowner's policy that every homeowner should be aware of. Mold is one of the most prominent. In many humid and wet climates, most homeowners are almost assured to run into mold problems at some point. It is important that you take steps to minimize or even prevent damage if possible.
Mold can be insidious, and has many sources. A burst pipe, damage from a storm, or rising water can cause mold, or even improper ventilation can lead to an infestation of mold. No matter the source, insurance coverage for either mold or water damage varies a great deal with different policies, or can be excluded altogether. Some insurers offer ten thousand dollars of limited coverage, but a higher amount is available for those who are interested. Any changes have to have been approved by the States Office of Insurance Regulation.
Some ways to limit the damage, or prevent it are:
- Address any source of moisture immediately if at all possible
- Quickly see to any reasonable and necessary repairs
- If feasible, remove any moisture. If the damage is severe enough, call a water extraction company.
- If possible, move soiled items to a secure and dry area
- Pull up wet rugs or carpets as soon as possible
- Increase air circulation around wet areas
No matter what steps you take, keep detailed and accurate records, including receipts. Take photographs from every possible angle to document the damage, even during repairs. Retain any damaged articles unless your insurance company instructs you to dispose of them. Speak with your agent or broker to give verbal and written notice of the damage. Then you can determine if your loss is covered and by how much.
It is in your best interest to prevent or decrease the amount of damage as much as possible, especially when mold is involved. Insurance claims that include mold damage are significantly higher than those without. Certain molds pose not only a risk for property damage, but significant health risks as well. Many individuals have a negative reaction to mold spores, and some types of mold will cause a reaction in anyone exposed.
Protect your home, and your family. Minimize the potential for mold damage by securing your home from flooding or excess moisture. In the event that you incur water damage beyond your control make sure to take the appropriate steps in handling any further damage. Make sure you read your insurance policy carefully so that you know your options concerning water or mold damage. If you have any questions or concerns make sure to speak with your agent or broker.
Robert Colucci represents 37 homeowners insurance in FL companies. Click or call 352-200-2066 today for your next homeowners insurance in Florida policy.
Water Damage Restoration and Cleanup Solutions
If there's been any water damage on your commercial or residential property, you should not wait and should immediately call in professionals from a reputable water restoration company. In some cases, you can do restoration on your own, but there is too much risk to take it up as a DIY project. Let's have a close look at the services provided by a water restoration company.
* Available 24/7
Professional water restoration companies operate on 24/7 basis. Time is really important when it comes to water damage restoration and any delay can dramatically increase your losses resulting in additional restoration expenses. If flooding has been due to any burst pipe, shut off the water supply and immediately call in professionals as soon as you can. If flooding is due to a sewage backup, floods, hurricanes, or roof leakage, you should not wait even for a second and call water restoration company to minimize your losses.
* Expert help with insurance claims
The water restoration company can do much more than water cleanup and restoration in your home or office. They will assign you an insurance specialist who will prepare your paperwork and help you in the entire insurance claims process. Even though claiming insurance for any property damage seems easy, but insurance company will do everything possible to give you a lower amount than required. With the professional help from an insurance specialist, you will save lot of time and stress and will get the check that will easily cover all your restoration expenses.
* Professional equipment
Water restoration companies use commercial grade equipment and tools, such as blowers, portable water extraction units, dehumidifiers, pumps, humidity and moisture gauges, fans, truck mounted extraction units and so on. All these equipments will help in removing water and will restore your home or office within hours.
* Technical know how
This is where water restoration companies offer the most value. You may take hours to learn and research to figure out best restoration plan for your property while professionals with years of hands on experience will immediately go to work and will restore your property in the most cost effective and efficient way. They will also advise you on potential issues with the construction of your building that might lead to future water damage issues.
Therefore, in conclusion, it's best to call a professional water restoration company as soon as any water damage occurs on your property. The sooner you'll call them, the lesser your losses will be. These companies also guarantee that their estimates will be accepted by your insurance company. That means, you won't spend anything from your pocket by hiring these professionals.
* Available 24/7
Professional water restoration companies operate on 24/7 basis. Time is really important when it comes to water damage restoration and any delay can dramatically increase your losses resulting in additional restoration expenses. If flooding has been due to any burst pipe, shut off the water supply and immediately call in professionals as soon as you can. If flooding is due to a sewage backup, floods, hurricanes, or roof leakage, you should not wait even for a second and call water restoration company to minimize your losses.
* Expert help with insurance claims
The water restoration company can do much more than water cleanup and restoration in your home or office. They will assign you an insurance specialist who will prepare your paperwork and help you in the entire insurance claims process. Even though claiming insurance for any property damage seems easy, but insurance company will do everything possible to give you a lower amount than required. With the professional help from an insurance specialist, you will save lot of time and stress and will get the check that will easily cover all your restoration expenses.
* Professional equipment
Water restoration companies use commercial grade equipment and tools, such as blowers, portable water extraction units, dehumidifiers, pumps, humidity and moisture gauges, fans, truck mounted extraction units and so on. All these equipments will help in removing water and will restore your home or office within hours.
* Technical know how
This is where water restoration companies offer the most value. You may take hours to learn and research to figure out best restoration plan for your property while professionals with years of hands on experience will immediately go to work and will restore your property in the most cost effective and efficient way. They will also advise you on potential issues with the construction of your building that might lead to future water damage issues.
Therefore, in conclusion, it's best to call a professional water restoration company as soon as any water damage occurs on your property. The sooner you'll call them, the lesser your losses will be. These companies also guarantee that their estimates will be accepted by your insurance company. That means, you won't spend anything from your pocket by hiring these professionals.
We offer a wide range of services to our clients with highly trained staff that are always ready to assist you whether its a big or small project. In this case, we can guarantee that we provide an excellent service and customer satisfaction. Your safety is our main goal. Call us today and find out how 911 Restoration can help you in your home restoration from disaster. We are here to be your tool as a solution to your problem.
FREE Cleaning & Restoring Smoke Damaged Contents C.E. Credit Course
Be our guest at our FREE Cleaning & Restoring Smoke Damaged Contents C.E. Credit Course! We will also be collecting gently used and new coats for Coats For Kids AND~~~~ we have FABULOUS PRIZES!!!!
Hope to see you there!. Please reply to RSVP.
Happy Thanksgiving!
SERVPRO of Fairfield Would Like To Wish You And Your Family A Safe And Happy Thanksgiving!!
Restoring Your Home After a Fire - Types of Smoke and Smoke Damage
It pays to be aware that not all smoke is the same, the type of smoke damage that has affected your house will differ depending on the type of fire that has taken place. Each of the following types of smoke require a different type of smoke damage restoration approach.
A smoldering fire will give off a thick smoke that coats the surfaces of the room completely. The result is a sticky, smeared smoke pattern that resembles a web.
A high-temperature fire that burns very rapidly will produce a lighter smoke pattern, although there is a far greater likelihood that there will be significant charring in the room.
Plastics and chemicals give off a toxic smoke that becomes almost invisible when it stains the walls but it is extremely pungent. This kind of smoke will stain the paint or varnish on the walls.
A blocked furnace or fireplace flue will force an oily soot back into the living room. It can also result in a fire at the blockage point. Either way you are left with an oily deposit that is particularly difficult to clean.
Smoke will generally result in two types of damage. Firstly, the visible staining of walls and other surfaces is immediately noticeable. Just as pervading is the unmistakable odor that has become deeply embedded in hard surfaces and soft furnishing alike. Knowing how to deal with each type of smoke damage is the specialty of a fire damage restoration company and they will be able to advise on the best way to deal with smoke damage and can then carry out the necessary work to remove it.
Importantly, surfaces left untreated with smoke or soot damage can become increasingly discolored as time goes by. Painted or varnished surfaces will discolor considerably and can go from restorable to unsalvageable in the space of a week. For this reason it is important to remove fire residue as soon after the fire as is practicable.
A smoldering fire will give off a thick smoke that coats the surfaces of the room completely. The result is a sticky, smeared smoke pattern that resembles a web.
A high-temperature fire that burns very rapidly will produce a lighter smoke pattern, although there is a far greater likelihood that there will be significant charring in the room.
Plastics and chemicals give off a toxic smoke that becomes almost invisible when it stains the walls but it is extremely pungent. This kind of smoke will stain the paint or varnish on the walls.
A blocked furnace or fireplace flue will force an oily soot back into the living room. It can also result in a fire at the blockage point. Either way you are left with an oily deposit that is particularly difficult to clean.
Smoke will generally result in two types of damage. Firstly, the visible staining of walls and other surfaces is immediately noticeable. Just as pervading is the unmistakable odor that has become deeply embedded in hard surfaces and soft furnishing alike. Knowing how to deal with each type of smoke damage is the specialty of a fire damage restoration company and they will be able to advise on the best way to deal with smoke damage and can then carry out the necessary work to remove it.
Importantly, surfaces left untreated with smoke or soot damage can become increasingly discolored as time goes by. Painted or varnished surfaces will discolor considerably and can go from restorable to unsalvageable in the space of a week. For this reason it is important to remove fire residue as soon after the fire as is practicable.
The best way to deal with fire damage is to get some professional assistance from those who know the correct fire and smoke damage cleanup procedures.
Turkey Fryer Fire Demonstration, Presented by William Shatner & State Farm®
William Shatner knows firsthand how dangerous turkey fryers can be—so do the firefighters with the Illinois Fire Service, who staged some of the common mistakes, with explosive results.
Water Damage - The Importance of Hiring a Restoration Professional
Whether your house recently flooded, or you are currently dealing with leaks in your property, water damage can be much more destructive than you think. No matter what the extent of the destruction may be, it is essential that you begin the restoration process sooner than later. While you may think that some smaller accidents can be taken care of utilizing do it yourself methods, most of the time, it is best to leave this work up to a team of professionals. You want to be sure that the problem is mitigated as much as possible and that any further destruction is prevented.
Flooding can be devastating to any property. Water damage can truly destroy a home in a small amount of time. If you have incurred flooding in your property, the sooner you act, the less serious the problem will be. In these circumstances you will want to hire a team of restoration professionals to handle the project for you as quickly as possible. The faster they are able to start their work, the more that can be salvaged and while emergency restoration services aren't cheap, they will save you money on repairs in the long run.
If you've got a small leak in your home, it is also a good idea to act as soon as you notice the problem. In these situations, the issue can be mitigated before it truly gets worse. Water damage professionals use a combination of expertise and highly advanced equipment to clean up the effects of flooding or sever leaks. If you hire the right team to restore your property, you can return your home or business back to its original state. Most of these companies focus on drying and deodorizing the effected area as quickly as possible. With these disasters, mold can always become an issue - especially if it sits in your property for too long. Some companies offer mold remediation services, while others can recommend a company to do the work for you.
No matter the extent of the water damage on your property, it is essential that you act quickly to ensure that the problem does not get any worse. From extensive floods to seemingly small leaks, it is crucial that you act as soon as you can to mitigate issues that may stem from such an occurrence. Find a reputable company to handle the cleanup and restoration process. Doing so can help you to bring your property back to life after the devastating aftermath of water damage.
Flooding can be devastating to any property. Water damage can truly destroy a home in a small amount of time. If you have incurred flooding in your property, the sooner you act, the less serious the problem will be. In these circumstances you will want to hire a team of restoration professionals to handle the project for you as quickly as possible. The faster they are able to start their work, the more that can be salvaged and while emergency restoration services aren't cheap, they will save you money on repairs in the long run.
If you've got a small leak in your home, it is also a good idea to act as soon as you notice the problem. In these situations, the issue can be mitigated before it truly gets worse. Water damage professionals use a combination of expertise and highly advanced equipment to clean up the effects of flooding or sever leaks. If you hire the right team to restore your property, you can return your home or business back to its original state. Most of these companies focus on drying and deodorizing the effected area as quickly as possible. With these disasters, mold can always become an issue - especially if it sits in your property for too long. Some companies offer mold remediation services, while others can recommend a company to do the work for you.
No matter the extent of the water damage on your property, it is essential that you act quickly to ensure that the problem does not get any worse. From extensive floods to seemingly small leaks, it is crucial that you act as soon as you can to mitigate issues that may stem from such an occurrence. Find a reputable company to handle the cleanup and restoration process. Doing so can help you to bring your property back to life after the devastating aftermath of water damage.
Dealing with water damage Grand Rapids, MI? Our expert team can restore your home. For more information please check out our website at http://www.vk1call.com.
Servpro Of Fairfield
Tom talks about the objectives of Servpro of Fairfield. A leading fire, water and smoke damage restoration company. See more at http://www.servprooffairfield.com
Fire Damage - Dealing With Smoke Damage After a Fire
A fire in the home is an occurrence that all of us hope that we never have to encounter. Unfortunately, house fires are something that many people have to deal with on a daily basis. In addition to the traumatic experience that a homeowner may face, there is also the issue of starting over and trying to save a house that has become a home.
A homeowner is lucky to have everyone safe and to avoid the destruction of all their personal belongings. Even with these blessings, there is still an uphill battle as far as getting the home restored and safe for the family. Dealing with a home that has fire damage is an issue that a homeowner should deal with by using a professional. Many times people attempt to save money by cleaning their home themselves only to find that they wasted a lot of time and effort.
There is extensive work involved with treating a house that has severe smoke damage after a fire. One of the task involve is properly removing the soot and smoke from the house. Soot is an oily substance that can stain your draperies and carpets. Removal of soot will require a heavy duty vacuum. The soot must be removed before any deodorizing can occur. It is also important to allow the air to flow throughout the house by opening all the windows so the home can air out.
Deodorizing the home extensively is necessary in order to completely rid the home of smoke odor. Smoke odors can remain in clothes, furniture, carpets and draperies in the home if not properly sanitized. Proper deodorizing may necessitate using chemicals and additives that break up smoke molecules in order to remove certain odors. Often an ozone generator may also be used by professional fire damage restorers to get the job done.
In addition to removing the odors from the air and carpet, fire damage and smoke odor may still be hidden inside the walls. In these extreme cases, professional fire damage restores may have to use a process called "thermal fogging". Thermal fogging is essential for penetrating the walls the same way a fire did in order to remove the trapped smoke odors. Failure to perform the thermal fogging may leave your home wreaking of smoke long after the fire.
There are also other areas of the home that may need a professional assessment in order to ensure proper fire damage cleaning is thorough. Places such as ducts, and attic insulation may need to be replaced. A walk through by a professional fire damage expert will give a homeowner a good idea of what can be saved and what needs to be replaced. Hiring a professional to get rid of the odor will also keep a homeowner from having to constantly be reminded of the bad memory of a fire due to smoke odor.
A homeowner is lucky to have everyone safe and to avoid the destruction of all their personal belongings. Even with these blessings, there is still an uphill battle as far as getting the home restored and safe for the family. Dealing with a home that has fire damage is an issue that a homeowner should deal with by using a professional. Many times people attempt to save money by cleaning their home themselves only to find that they wasted a lot of time and effort.
There is extensive work involved with treating a house that has severe smoke damage after a fire. One of the task involve is properly removing the soot and smoke from the house. Soot is an oily substance that can stain your draperies and carpets. Removal of soot will require a heavy duty vacuum. The soot must be removed before any deodorizing can occur. It is also important to allow the air to flow throughout the house by opening all the windows so the home can air out.
Deodorizing the home extensively is necessary in order to completely rid the home of smoke odor. Smoke odors can remain in clothes, furniture, carpets and draperies in the home if not properly sanitized. Proper deodorizing may necessitate using chemicals and additives that break up smoke molecules in order to remove certain odors. Often an ozone generator may also be used by professional fire damage restorers to get the job done.
In addition to removing the odors from the air and carpet, fire damage and smoke odor may still be hidden inside the walls. In these extreme cases, professional fire damage restores may have to use a process called "thermal fogging". Thermal fogging is essential for penetrating the walls the same way a fire did in order to remove the trapped smoke odors. Failure to perform the thermal fogging may leave your home wreaking of smoke long after the fire.
There are also other areas of the home that may need a professional assessment in order to ensure proper fire damage cleaning is thorough. Places such as ducts, and attic insulation may need to be replaced. A walk through by a professional fire damage expert will give a homeowner a good idea of what can be saved and what needs to be replaced. Hiring a professional to get rid of the odor will also keep a homeowner from having to constantly be reminded of the bad memory of a fire due to smoke odor.
I hope that this article was helpful. Thanks you for reading. Timothy Spruill Water Damage Restoration Atlanta Fire Damage Repair Atlanta
Recipe - Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin Soup
"This easy soup is made with pumpkin puree, chicken stock, onion, and fresh herbs. Cream is stirred in at the end for added richness."
INGREDIENTS:
6 cups chicken stock
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
4 cups pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
5 whole black peppercorns
- Heat stock, salt, pumpkin, onion, thyme, garlic, and peppercorns. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 30 minutes uncovered.
- Puree the soup in small batches (1 cup at a time) using a food processor or blender.
- Return to pan, and bring to a boil again. Reduce heat to low, and simmer for another 30 minutes, uncovered. Stir in heavy cream. Pour into soup bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
recipe source
UNDERSTANDING BURGLARY & THEFT ENDORSEMENTS
Theft of installed copper pipes is rising. What insurance provision covers that kind of loss?
Both theft and burglary cover stolen property, whether that property is copper piping, permanently attached items such as a heating pump or appliance, or personal effects. But they differ as to how the thief entered the house:
- A theft endorsement applies whether someone opens an unlocked garage or kicks in a door.
- A burglary endorsement - although a type of theft coverage - only applies if forced entry leaves signs of visible damage, such as a broken window. If items are stolen without signs of forced entry, a theft claim will be accepted but not a burglary claim.
So what happens if there is a break-in but nothing is actually stolen? Vandalism coverage protects the policy holder if a would-be thief ruins the drywall or cabinets but does not manage to cut out the pipes or steal the heat pump.
When you write dwelling coverage - particularly for more vulnerable vacant homes - be sure your customer understands that theft and burglary are not the same, and that vandalism coverage is needed too. Not all coverage is available in all programs, and terms and limits apply, so check the program manual.
New Choices In Fire Protection Systems Can Help Make Facilities Safer
By Chris Jelenewicz
Fire protection systems generally have long life cycles, but as with all building systems, there comes a time when they need to be replaced. Sometimes a code, standard, or other regulation may dictate this replacement. Other circumstances may also determine that the system needs to be replaced, such as when parts to keep the system up and running are no longer available.
Recently, there have been a number of changes in fire systems. These changes give facility managers a number of choices when it comes to selecting functionality, so defining what a system does and does not need to do can help make selections easier.
One of the first steps should be consulting a fire protection engineer. Fire protection engineers understand the science and the latest technologies that are used to protect people, property and the environment from fire. A fire protection engineer can assist in determining the appropriate system for the appropriate application and assist in preparing the design, installation and maintenance requirements involved in the various systems available.
Fire Alarm And Communication Systems
Traditionally, fire alarm systems provide early detection, warn occupants, initiate evacuation, and notify the proper authorities. Although this is still true, as a result of recent terrorist incidents, school shootings, and natural disasters, the role of a building's fire alarm system has expanded. These systems have evolved into emergency communication systems that provide essential information that is needed for occupants to respond during all types of emergencies.
In addition to generating a standard evacuation signal, fire alarm and communication systems have the ability to have speakers that provide voice messages. Because these voice alarm systems can clearly state the problem and give specific instructions to the building occupants on how to respond, people are more likely to take action. Moreover, these systems can also instruct occupants to relocate to areas of refuge when complete building evacuation is not feasible or necessary.
For these systems to be effective in providing information, it is imperative that building occupants can hear and clearly understand the messages. In the past, a lot of attention was focused on audibility. Although audibility is important, audibility does not guarantee intelligibility. Much time and effort has been devoted to finding ways to design better speakers so people can clearly understand the voice messages.
Moreover, building stakeholders are now asking these systems to do more. This includes providing mass notification at a much larger scale across multiple buildings and during all types of emergencies, including, but not limited to, fire, terrorist incidents, domestic violence incidents, weather emergencies, earthquakes, and hazardous material incidents.
Information can now be provided to a campus of facilities through a number of mediums such as audible notification appliances, visual notification appliances, graphics displays, text messages, email, outside speakers, smart phones and local television announcements.
Since these systems are more complex than a traditional fire alarm system, a careful risk assessment is essential when planning and designing mass notification systems. This includes getting all major stakeholders to participate in this risk assessment.
Additionally, the fire protection engineering community has also been making great strides in providing more reliable and faster responding detection. One area worth noting is related to improvements in flame and smoke video image detection (VID) technology. VID technology includes a video camera that uses video-based analytical algorithms to detect flames and smoke.
Typically, VID technology is used in areas that do not work well with traditional spot-type smoke detection, such as large volume indoor spaces, outside hazards, and tunnels. It has been successfully used in electrical power plants, paper mills, nuclear research facilities, automotive plants, warehouse/distribution centers, and oil platforms.
Source and to Read More
reade more...
Fire protection systems generally have long life cycles, but as with all building systems, there comes a time when they need to be replaced. Sometimes a code, standard, or other regulation may dictate this replacement. Other circumstances may also determine that the system needs to be replaced, such as when parts to keep the system up and running are no longer available.
Recently, there have been a number of changes in fire systems. These changes give facility managers a number of choices when it comes to selecting functionality, so defining what a system does and does not need to do can help make selections easier.
One of the first steps should be consulting a fire protection engineer. Fire protection engineers understand the science and the latest technologies that are used to protect people, property and the environment from fire. A fire protection engineer can assist in determining the appropriate system for the appropriate application and assist in preparing the design, installation and maintenance requirements involved in the various systems available.
Fire Alarm And Communication Systems
Traditionally, fire alarm systems provide early detection, warn occupants, initiate evacuation, and notify the proper authorities. Although this is still true, as a result of recent terrorist incidents, school shootings, and natural disasters, the role of a building's fire alarm system has expanded. These systems have evolved into emergency communication systems that provide essential information that is needed for occupants to respond during all types of emergencies.
In addition to generating a standard evacuation signal, fire alarm and communication systems have the ability to have speakers that provide voice messages. Because these voice alarm systems can clearly state the problem and give specific instructions to the building occupants on how to respond, people are more likely to take action. Moreover, these systems can also instruct occupants to relocate to areas of refuge when complete building evacuation is not feasible or necessary.
For these systems to be effective in providing information, it is imperative that building occupants can hear and clearly understand the messages. In the past, a lot of attention was focused on audibility. Although audibility is important, audibility does not guarantee intelligibility. Much time and effort has been devoted to finding ways to design better speakers so people can clearly understand the voice messages.
Moreover, building stakeholders are now asking these systems to do more. This includes providing mass notification at a much larger scale across multiple buildings and during all types of emergencies, including, but not limited to, fire, terrorist incidents, domestic violence incidents, weather emergencies, earthquakes, and hazardous material incidents.
Information can now be provided to a campus of facilities through a number of mediums such as audible notification appliances, visual notification appliances, graphics displays, text messages, email, outside speakers, smart phones and local television announcements.
Since these systems are more complex than a traditional fire alarm system, a careful risk assessment is essential when planning and designing mass notification systems. This includes getting all major stakeholders to participate in this risk assessment.
Additionally, the fire protection engineering community has also been making great strides in providing more reliable and faster responding detection. One area worth noting is related to improvements in flame and smoke video image detection (VID) technology. VID technology includes a video camera that uses video-based analytical algorithms to detect flames and smoke.
Typically, VID technology is used in areas that do not work well with traditional spot-type smoke detection, such as large volume indoor spaces, outside hazards, and tunnels. It has been successfully used in electrical power plants, paper mills, nuclear research facilities, automotive plants, warehouse/distribution centers, and oil platforms.
Source and to Read More
PUMPKIN PULP NOT PLUMBING FRIENDLY
Every year, more than one billion pounds of pumpkins are produced in America - many of which are carved into jack-o'-lanterns each Halloween. That's a lot of leftover pulp. In addition to creating their own jack-o'-lanterns this year, Roto-Rooter plumbers from Death Valley, California to Salem, Massachusetts will spend many brisk fall days removing gobs of pulp and seeds from clogged drains before the end of the Halloween season.
Local Roto-Rooter plumbers have become as common a Halloween visitor as little vampires or ghosts thanks to sticky pumpkin pulp and seeds. In the two weeks leading up to Halloween, calls from frantic homeowners struggling with pulp-clogged garbage disposals and stopped up kitchen sink drains ring in to local Roto-Rooter offices faster than the Halloween candy dishes empty.
Roto-Rooter, America's largest provider of plumbing repair and sewer & drain cleaning services, reminds jack-o'-lantern carvers that pumpkin pulp should never be put down drains or into garbage disposals. The slimy gunk is ideal for clogging sink drains.
"People think that it's safe for disposals because it's soft, stringy and mushy. The problem is that pulp will dry and harden, choking off drainpipes and garbage disposals and creating all sorts of havoc," said Larry Rothman, plumbing director for Cincinnati-based Roto-Rooter Plumbing and Drain Service.
"For several years we've spread the word that carving pumpkins in the sink is a very bad idea," he added. "People assume when they shove the pulp down kitchen sink drain that it's gone, but in a little while the sink usually stops draining altogether." Rothman says it's also worth noting that Roto-Rooter gets several calls about pumpkin guts flushed down the toilet, usually with similar clog-causing results. "The toilet is not a better option. It just means the clog forms deeper into the pipe."
To prevent Halloween drain disasters, Roto-Rooter suggests carving pumpkins on a bed of newspaper.
Then carvers should wrap up the mess and throw all pumpkin-related materials into the garbage can or a compost pile. The seeds can be separated and roasted for a tasty treat or they can be air-dried and planted in the spring after the last frost to grow next year's Halloween pumpkin.
HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS
Tips for a Fun, Safe Trick-Or-Treating Season
For the festive Halloween season, please keep these safety facts and tips in mind:
- Approach only houses that are lit.
- Avoid wearing masks while walking from house to house.
- Battery-powered jack o'lantern candles are preferable to a real flame. If you do use candles, place the pumpkin well away from where trick-or-treaters will be walking or standing.
- Carry a flashlight.
- Carry only flexible knives, swords, or other props.
- Don't cut across yards or driveways.
- Healthy food alternatives for trick-or-treaters include packages of low-fat crackers with cheese or peanut butter filling, single-serve boxes of cereal, packaged fruit rolls, mini boxes of raisins, and single-serve packets of low-fat popcorn that can be microwaved later. Non-food treats include plastic rings, pencils, stickers, erasers, and coins.
- If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
- Make sure costumes don't drag on the ground.
- Make sure paper or cloth yard decorations won't be blown into a flaming candle.
- Make sure your yard is clear of such things as ladders, hoses, dog leashes, and flower pots that can trip the young ones.
- Obey traffic signals.
- Pets get frightened on Halloween. Put them up to protect them from cars or inadvertently biting a trick-or-treater.
- Shoes should fit (even if they don't go with your costume).
- Stay away from and don't pet animals you don't know.
- Stay in familiar neighborhoods.
- Stay on sidewalks.
- Walk, don't run.
- Wear a watch you can read in the dark.
- Wear clothing with reflective markings or tape.
Water Damage Restoration 2 of 2 - Servpro Of Fairfield
Tom further demonstrates the process water damage restoration. See more at http://www.servprooffairfield.com
Water Damage Restoration 1 or 2 - Servpro Of Fairfield
Tom with Servpro Of Fairfield shows the process of water extraction in typically home setting. See more at www.servprooffairfield.com
Restoring Your Home After Fire Or Flood
One of the greatest horrors in life is imagining a fire or flood inviting itself in to your home to destroy all of your belongings. Unfortunately, these events do happen to people on tragic occasions. If you are going through such an event your next concern is probably how you will manage to repair all of the unexpected damage that so rapidly took over the interior. Before giving up on partially defected rooms and furnishings you should consider having a professional determine which areas are salvageable. This process is much quicker then starting from scratch and can save you bundles of money in the end. It is also reassuring to know that your cherished belongings, such as antiques and heirlooms, have a chance of surviving the mess.
When a fire strikes your home the smoke is bound to leave every thing inside looking far from usable. Luckily, professional services have the experience needed to help restore as many items as possible. By using the proper techniques, these workers can help bring the life back in to all corners of the room. Floors and walls are often the largest parts of a home that suffer from a change of color. Homes with hardwood floors or carpeted floors can be restored through intense cleaning, sanding, or refinishing. The upholstery can be cared for in a similar way to carpets by using high powered machinery to revive the damaged furniture.
Water damage may not coat a home with soot, but the clean up can be just as involved. Professionals will immediately start the restoration of your home by drying up all excess water from the interior. When water is cleared they can then begin bringing ceilings, walls, floors, and furnishings back to their attractive appearance. Unless caused by a natural disaster, these problems often happen as a result of bathroom, kitchen, or piping failures. This means that workers must be ready to repair any flooring or furniture that may be presented to them. Restoration can begin by having all the affected flooring areas drained and fully cleaned. Walls and ceilings that began to cave in from water pressure, must also receive immediate attention. These areas can be easily repaired and repainted to match their previous state.
There are many ways you can restore what you have to prevent losing an entire home full of memories. The process usually begins with the largest part of your home and gradually works to repair even the smallest valuable. Even though insurance companies may cover some of the costs, there is no way the money offered will replace a life time of history created in a home's interior. During such an emotional event, it is one route you can take where you can resist having to start your home's decorating from scratch.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Middleton When a fire strikes your home the smoke is bound to leave every thing inside looking far from usable. Luckily, professional services have the experience needed to help restore as many items as possible. By using the proper techniques, these workers can help bring the life back in to all corners of the room. Floors and walls are often the largest parts of a home that suffer from a change of color. Homes with hardwood floors or carpeted floors can be restored through intense cleaning, sanding, or refinishing. The upholstery can be cared for in a similar way to carpets by using high powered machinery to revive the damaged furniture.
Water damage may not coat a home with soot, but the clean up can be just as involved. Professionals will immediately start the restoration of your home by drying up all excess water from the interior. When water is cleared they can then begin bringing ceilings, walls, floors, and furnishings back to their attractive appearance. Unless caused by a natural disaster, these problems often happen as a result of bathroom, kitchen, or piping failures. This means that workers must be ready to repair any flooring or furniture that may be presented to them. Restoration can begin by having all the affected flooring areas drained and fully cleaned. Walls and ceilings that began to cave in from water pressure, must also receive immediate attention. These areas can be easily repaired and repainted to match their previous state.
There are many ways you can restore what you have to prevent losing an entire home full of memories. The process usually begins with the largest part of your home and gradually works to repair even the smallest valuable. Even though insurance companies may cover some of the costs, there is no way the money offered will replace a life time of history created in a home's interior. During such an emotional event, it is one route you can take where you can resist having to start your home's decorating from scratch.
Mold Removal Requires Experts
Couple water puddling or seeping inside a residence with humidity and you have the recipe for mold.
While mold can be an unsightly addition to bathrooms and basements, it also poses health risks. Is mold really something to cause that much concern? Absolutely! Getting that mold removed is vital for the health of you and your family. Attacking the fungi and bacteria that create mold is vital for the continued well-being of your loved ones. If you see any signs of mold in your home, have it addressed immediately. The longer you wait, the more health issues that can be created by the problem. If the fungi and bacteria are not addressed, they can spread to other parts of the home and create mold there as well.
A mold removal company has individuals trained in the latest and safest ways to attack bacteria and fungus in a home. Company personnel will do an inspection and talk with you about the proper procedures to take to address the problem. Trained professionals will handle the issue with the proper equipment and chemicals, keeping the home's inhabitants safe. Their ongoing training keeps mold removal employees aware of the best and latest procedures for handling projects.
Some homeowners, having little knowledge about mold themselves, think they can negate the problem on their own. But unless you know just what you are looking for and how to treat what you find, you are running the risk of not properly getting rid of the problem. Mold is a growth that requires moisture and a host for food. If there is water and moisture around your shower, there is a good chance you may have mold problems.
The biggest reason to address mold problems head-on is because mold affects air quality. Not addressing the problem can make for breathing difficulties for members of your family. If spores from bacteria get into your home's air, they are being breathed in by family members on a daily basis. That can cause problems ranging from runny noses to pneumonia.
It also can ruin the look of a basement or bathroom. It is an eyesore and can create a stifling smell that wafts through a residence.
What are the benefits of hiring a mold removal company? Isn't this something a homeowner can tackle himself? First of all, simply removing the mold will not handle the problem. The source of the mold needs to be found and the area treated to ensure the mold ceases to develop. Once mold spores are in your home, they can regenerate in short order and cause identical problems in other rooms. Only an expert knows how to eradicate every mold spore so the problem doesn't re-emerge shortly after the treatment occurs. Also, mold gets into hard-to-access locations. Unless you have the proper equipment and training, you may not be able to get to all of the mold. It can even get into your home's insulation which can be very difficult to spot and know it is present.
Also, according to medical experts, there are more than 150 different kinds of mold. All of them cannot be treated with the same way, which is why mold removal experts should be hired.
While mold can be an unsightly addition to bathrooms and basements, it also poses health risks. Is mold really something to cause that much concern? Absolutely! Getting that mold removed is vital for the health of you and your family. Attacking the fungi and bacteria that create mold is vital for the continued well-being of your loved ones. If you see any signs of mold in your home, have it addressed immediately. The longer you wait, the more health issues that can be created by the problem. If the fungi and bacteria are not addressed, they can spread to other parts of the home and create mold there as well.
A mold removal company has individuals trained in the latest and safest ways to attack bacteria and fungus in a home. Company personnel will do an inspection and talk with you about the proper procedures to take to address the problem. Trained professionals will handle the issue with the proper equipment and chemicals, keeping the home's inhabitants safe. Their ongoing training keeps mold removal employees aware of the best and latest procedures for handling projects.
Some homeowners, having little knowledge about mold themselves, think they can negate the problem on their own. But unless you know just what you are looking for and how to treat what you find, you are running the risk of not properly getting rid of the problem. Mold is a growth that requires moisture and a host for food. If there is water and moisture around your shower, there is a good chance you may have mold problems.
The biggest reason to address mold problems head-on is because mold affects air quality. Not addressing the problem can make for breathing difficulties for members of your family. If spores from bacteria get into your home's air, they are being breathed in by family members on a daily basis. That can cause problems ranging from runny noses to pneumonia.
It also can ruin the look of a basement or bathroom. It is an eyesore and can create a stifling smell that wafts through a residence.
What are the benefits of hiring a mold removal company? Isn't this something a homeowner can tackle himself? First of all, simply removing the mold will not handle the problem. The source of the mold needs to be found and the area treated to ensure the mold ceases to develop. Once mold spores are in your home, they can regenerate in short order and cause identical problems in other rooms. Only an expert knows how to eradicate every mold spore so the problem doesn't re-emerge shortly after the treatment occurs. Also, mold gets into hard-to-access locations. Unless you have the proper equipment and training, you may not be able to get to all of the mold. It can even get into your home's insulation which can be very difficult to spot and know it is present.
Also, according to medical experts, there are more than 150 different kinds of mold. All of them cannot be treated with the same way, which is why mold removal experts should be hired.
Atlanta mold removal service is closer, easier and more affordable than you think. Don't put up with the strange smells and embarrassment of mold any longer! Learn more here: http://www.err-solutions.com/.
Where to Turn When You Have Fire Damage
No one wants to think about having a home go up in flames. When this happens, it can feel like the end of the world. Everything you own may either be smoky, wet, or burned. The fire damage may seem insurmountable. It is important not to give up when this happens. There are people out there that work in remediation who have the knowledge and skills needed to recover items that you might have thought were a lost cause.
When you have fire damage, you will want to find remediation experts. Before you choose a company, you will want to consider a few areas. Look at how much they charge, their certifications, their experience, and their customer service.
Cost will be a big deal as you stand there watching your home go up in flames. You would be wise to already have the contact information of a business before something happens, but you just never know when disaster will strike. Whether or not you have a number already, make sure that you choose a company that is affordable. Compare the pricing around the city and even on the outskirts.
Certification is also important. It is essential for a company to have all of their employees certified in the necessary areas for this job. You might want to ask whether all certifications are up-to-date and also how they choose their employees. You should also question the management to see if they hire convicted felons. You might not have a problem with this, but if you do, you will want to know a company's policy.
Experience is another area. Make sure that the employees and management all have at least a few years of experience in this field of remediation. They should also be skilled at mold detection and remediation, because the sprinkler system can cause mold to grow. They may also need to deal with toxic chemicals that might be present in a burned-out home.
Customer service should also be considered. You want a company that thinks about the customer when making the hours of availability, the financial arrangements, and even phone calls.
All of these areas are important. Make sure that you read some reviews to see if these traits add up to a good-looking repair job in the end. It is essential that all valuables are saved as much as possible. Some items may not seem to be of any value if someone else were to see them, so in this whole process, make sure that care is taken to get your belongings back to you in the best shape possible. You might have to let some items go, but hopefully the fire damage expert that you choose will help you to get on the right track.
When you have fire damage, you will want to find remediation experts. Before you choose a company, you will want to consider a few areas. Look at how much they charge, their certifications, their experience, and their customer service.
Cost will be a big deal as you stand there watching your home go up in flames. You would be wise to already have the contact information of a business before something happens, but you just never know when disaster will strike. Whether or not you have a number already, make sure that you choose a company that is affordable. Compare the pricing around the city and even on the outskirts.
Certification is also important. It is essential for a company to have all of their employees certified in the necessary areas for this job. You might want to ask whether all certifications are up-to-date and also how they choose their employees. You should also question the management to see if they hire convicted felons. You might not have a problem with this, but if you do, you will want to know a company's policy.
Experience is another area. Make sure that the employees and management all have at least a few years of experience in this field of remediation. They should also be skilled at mold detection and remediation, because the sprinkler system can cause mold to grow. They may also need to deal with toxic chemicals that might be present in a burned-out home.
Customer service should also be considered. You want a company that thinks about the customer when making the hours of availability, the financial arrangements, and even phone calls.
All of these areas are important. Make sure that you read some reviews to see if these traits add up to a good-looking repair job in the end. It is essential that all valuables are saved as much as possible. Some items may not seem to be of any value if someone else were to see them, so in this whole process, make sure that care is taken to get your belongings back to you in the best shape possible. You might have to let some items go, but hopefully the fire damage expert that you choose will help you to get on the right track.
If you're dealing with fire damage, Kalamazoo, MI is home to ProCare Restoration Services, Inc. Learn more at http://www.procareteam.com/fire_smoke_damage_tips.html.
Do You Need Professional Help When You Have Water Damage?
Water damage to your home can be a very serious and problematic situation that you need to deal with as soon as the initial damage is done. You might be inclined to think that you could save a lot of money and do this on your own without any setbacks, but when it comes to water damage and the problems that this can carry in the near future for your home, you need professional help if you want to get rid of the issues that might come with it.
There are many reasons why there could be water damage in your home. Leaky pipes and clogged toilets are very common, but something more serious like a broken main pipeline can create a very serious problem in your home in a matter of hours and even less. You could end up with a variety of complications that are not going to be solved by simply mopping the floors and allowing the wood and the carpets to dry on their own. You can also end up with electronic appliances that can be seriously damaged by water and a team of professionals can always assist you with your home appliances too.
Some water damage can be very small and just hit a small part of your home, but even in this case you need to take action and get rid of the humidity completely. It could require the use of very special water extraction machines and also driers to really get all of the damage taken care of. If you don't do a successful job of getting rid of all the humidity, you will end up with a very serious mold and even rot that could destroy your home in the long run and even create a health problem for you and your family.
There are many allergies and diseases that certain types of mold can carry and some of them could be extremely dangerous for some people who have respiratory problems such as asthma. You could also have a problem with wood rotting away much faster than you might think and if you have carpets, the damage repairs could require that you get rid of all the carpet and replace it.
A professional water restoration business will always give you a proper diagnosis of the amount of damage that the house will require and this will give you a better idea of the budged you might need for this repairs. There are probably a few solutions that can be offered depending on the severity of the damage, but for the most part the problem requires a lot of careful planning and damage control.
You should consider all of these situations in case you are still thinking of doing the clean up on your own. Water damage is a big deal and you should think of using professional help as the best investment that will restore your home and make it last for many decades to come. You will always regret not calling someone qualified for the job when you start to see the mold and decay of your floors and walls. These kind of problems spread fast as long as they have humidity they will continue to grow into areas that previously had no water damage but will eventually be affected by this problem.
Don't take any chances; hire a top quality service provider that knows what they are doing. It might cost you a little money, but you will be saving your home, which is the biggest asset, most people own.
There are many reasons why there could be water damage in your home. Leaky pipes and clogged toilets are very common, but something more serious like a broken main pipeline can create a very serious problem in your home in a matter of hours and even less. You could end up with a variety of complications that are not going to be solved by simply mopping the floors and allowing the wood and the carpets to dry on their own. You can also end up with electronic appliances that can be seriously damaged by water and a team of professionals can always assist you with your home appliances too.
Some water damage can be very small and just hit a small part of your home, but even in this case you need to take action and get rid of the humidity completely. It could require the use of very special water extraction machines and also driers to really get all of the damage taken care of. If you don't do a successful job of getting rid of all the humidity, you will end up with a very serious mold and even rot that could destroy your home in the long run and even create a health problem for you and your family.
There are many allergies and diseases that certain types of mold can carry and some of them could be extremely dangerous for some people who have respiratory problems such as asthma. You could also have a problem with wood rotting away much faster than you might think and if you have carpets, the damage repairs could require that you get rid of all the carpet and replace it.
A professional water restoration business will always give you a proper diagnosis of the amount of damage that the house will require and this will give you a better idea of the budged you might need for this repairs. There are probably a few solutions that can be offered depending on the severity of the damage, but for the most part the problem requires a lot of careful planning and damage control.
You should consider all of these situations in case you are still thinking of doing the clean up on your own. Water damage is a big deal and you should think of using professional help as the best investment that will restore your home and make it last for many decades to come. You will always regret not calling someone qualified for the job when you start to see the mold and decay of your floors and walls. These kind of problems spread fast as long as they have humidity they will continue to grow into areas that previously had no water damage but will eventually be affected by this problem.
Don't take any chances; hire a top quality service provider that knows what they are doing. It might cost you a little money, but you will be saving your home, which is the biggest asset, most people own.
For additional help and resources we have created a resource website at the following address. Utah Disaster Cleanup
Good Earth Roasts, Fort Strip, BGC
Are you in The Fort/BGC and not in the mood for the typical loud places where you can't even converse properly? Check out Good Earth Roasts in the Strip for some laid back drinking and awesome food tripping.
It doesn't matter if you're in shorts and slippers. It's also probably one of the cheapest in the area. They've got buckets of 6 at 390 (I understand it still seems pricey but this is good for this area). Also, they have classic pulutan choices like isaw, tenga, and bulaklak (more expensive than the streets, of course, but way cheaper than Mercato prices). And they're really good. They all dangerously taste like uric acid and a heart attack - perfect with some ice-cold beers.
And they have an interesting selection of chinese delicacies as well. This is, from what I hear, the edgy modernist spin-off of Good Earth. I'll surely be back to try their roast duck.
Also, all their alcohol is hidden under the right-most corner bench by the TV. Something to keep in mind in case of a zombie apocalypse.
It's across Burger Avenue, in-between the cheesesteak place and the mexican place. Good stuff.
RECIPE - Slow Cooker Chili
"The slow cooker is a great way to make chili. This beefy chili is packed with beans, veggies, and spice."
INGREDIENTS:
1 pound ground beef
3/4 cup diced onion
3/4 cup diced celery3/4 cup diced green bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 (10.75 ounce) cans tomato puree
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans with liquid
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans with liquid
1/2 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon dried basil
3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
- Place the beef in a skillet over medium heat, and cook until evenly brown. Drain grease.
- Place the beef in a slow cooker, and mix in onion, celery, green bell pepper, garlic, tomato puree, kidney beans, and cannellini beans. Season with chili powder, parsley, salt, basil, oregano, black pepper, and hot pepper sauce.
- Cover, and cook 8 hours on Low. Recipe Source
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