Commercial Fire Extinguisher Safety and Education

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

If your property takes on fire damage, rest assured that SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is here to help.

Fire safety is a critical aspect of health & safety measures that all businesses must address, and maintaining your commercial property’s fire extinguishers is essential in protecting your employees, property and products from harm.

A fire extinguisher can’t protect anything if nobody knows how to use it. There are many rules and regulations related to fire extinguisher safety, such as the fact that fire extinguishers should be mounted on walls at distances of less than 75 feet that would not be well-known without proper education.

You and your employees must also know how to choose the right extinguisher, as well as how to operate it. This is where it might be valuable to employ some training.

Why Training Is Essential

Let’s take a look at what fire extinguisher training includes and why it’s important:

Fire extinguisher training usually consists of education and practice. You will learn all about the types of extinguishers through lectures provided by a certified instructor. Once you have passed the education portion, you will get to put your knowledge into practice. Generally conducted in an outdoor setting, certified instructors will provide hands-on training teaching you and your team how to use the various types of fire extinguishers.

What would happen if a fire sprung up in your facility today? Would you know how to extinguish it and with the proper extinguisher? Would your employees know how to do this?

This is why training is critical in ensuring your staff has the opportunity to try these devices and techniques before a disaster strikes so that in the case one ever does happen, you all will know exactly what to do.

Your workplace runs the risk of devastating and costly damage if you’re not prepared. While you can’t predict a fire, you can ensure that your employees know what to do to promptly and effectively combat it through proper training. This ultimately minimizes what could have been extensive injuries, damages and expenses.

If your commercial property takes on fire damage, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is here to help. We have teams on deck at all times ready to take your call and begin the restoration process immediately.

Here to Restore, No Matter the Kind of Damage | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is your local restoration expert. We are the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration.

When disaster strikes, we can get there fast, but did you know there is another reason why we should be one of your first calls if the worst should occur?

When it comes to your property, our technicians work with a “restore first” mentality aided by the use of specialized equipment and cleaning techniques. This helps reduce the interruptions to life and helps get your home or business back to pre-disaster condition.

It’s always best to give SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South a call right after damage occurs to make sure we can provide you with the best service possible. We can assist you in any of the following areas:

<h2water-damage">Serious Water Damage

Water damage can come in many different forms, and oftentimes, you as the homeowner, renter, and business owner rarely have a heads-up when it comes to natural events.

There are also times when water damage is caused by unforeseeable issues. These can occur when pipes break, there is a drip that went unnoticed or unfixed, damaged water heaters or even a faucet left on unattended.

Floods cause more than $10 billion in damages nationwide every year. We want to keep you as far away from those costs as possible!

Our experts have the most up-to-date tools in the business to detect hidden moisture and extract standing water. We will also help you come up with a water damage restoration plan to make sure your home is clean, dry and restored to preloss condition.

<h2fire-damage">Unexpected Fire Damage

When you own a business, you are responsible for planning for many things—but have you thought about planning ahead in case of a fire?

A fire can derail a business plan quickly, leaving devastating damage in its wake, and it’s more common than you may think, with a fire occurring every 23 seconds in the United States. If you have not yet thought about what you would do if a fire started on your commercial property, now is the time to consider it.

If disaster does hit, we can help you handle the damage resulting from the flames themselves, as well as smoke, soot and water.

<h2storm-damage">Severe Storm Damage

The aftermath of a storm can be very stressful for all individuals involved, but particularly stressful for homeowners that incurred damage to their property.

We’re no stranger to the damage weather can cause. In March 2022, several homes in metro Atlanta were damaged in severe weather. At the same time, Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services reported that lightning caused a home fire in Gwinnett that displaced a family of five.

Some of the services we offer to help you get back on your feet include dry cleaning, wet cleaning, foam cleansing and abrasive cleaning. If your home requires a more extensive clean, we also offer move-out services, so we can bring your home back to preloss condition as soon as possible.

<h2sets-SERVPRO-apart">What Sets SERVPRO Apart?

Since 1967, SERVPRO has been the cleaning and restoration brand that you have come to know and trust. With great reputation comes great responsibility.

We’re here when you need us. You can reach out to a SERVPRO expert via our ²⁴⁄₇ Emergency Line day or night and receive immediate assistance.

Regardless of the type of damage sustained, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when you need a dependable team to help you rebuild your life.

Storm Devastation to your Home? Call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Sotuh

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs to an already anxiety provoking situation. SERVPRO delivers the help you need swiftly even when a local disaster is widespread as we are able to call upon a network of over 1,650 franchises nationwide to respond if the need is great.   Storm damage can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues you face. Choosing our company puts in motion a vast support system, but our local ownership means you will receive a personalized approach to your particular situation, efficiently returning your home back to its pre-storm condition just “Like it never even happened.”   Placing your trust in SERVPRO for your storm damage needs will reap you benefits that less qualified companies simply cannot deliver. We use state of the art equipment to clean, repair and restore your home and in the process, we also restore your and your family’s peace of mind. Our technicians are highly trained and qualified, current in Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) for any procedure needed to bring your home back to the comfortable and comforting refuge you deserve. We also work closely with your insurance company, ensuring that all the work necessary is approved and compensated according to the terms of your policy. Our high standards and relentless drive to do the job on time while meeting local specifications means you and your family will quickly return to the quiet enjoyment of your house and neighborhood. We are not satisfied until you are happily back in your restored dwelling.   Once you make sure that your family is safe after a major storm, your first call should be to SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South. Dial 770-448-5782 24/7 and begin the road to recovery by scheduling an inspection with our storm damage experts.

Water Damage? We Have You Covered | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

No matter the damage sustained, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South has the tools and team to help your home return to a normal state quickly.

A leaking faucet might appear irrelevant now. However, water can have a destructive impact on your home, no matter how small the amount of water. In fact, the typical home leak can waste as much as 10,000 gallons of water in a year.

Water damage proceeds rapidly, seeping right your floors, walls and soft surfaces. That’s why it’s essential to attend to the problem immediately to generate the very best results. Here’s a guide to how water damage progresses.

24 Hour Emergency Services Offered from SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE/SW

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South 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.  Our SERVPRO franchises arrive quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE/SW to Help from Start to Finish

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

Having unexpected damage to your home can cause extreme stress. Having one company come to your home to repair the source of the damage, a different company to do the demolition or mitigation, and then a third service to come and complete your repairs may add to that unexpected stress. We  have found that most of our customers enjoy using one company from start to finish. 

Here at SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW that is most certainly possible. Our Franchise has  a team for both mitigation and construction. Our teams of mitigation and reconstruction work together from start to finish on several of our clients to help put our customers at ease when dealing with unexpected damage to their home. 

While estimate fees are usually required by other construction companies to send in a repair estimate to a client's insurance company, our Reconstruction Department waives that fee for any customer who had SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW to complete the mitigation services needed on their home. 

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW strives to make these uneasy processes go as smoothly and stress free as possible for our customers. If you are like most of our clients and do not wish to have to deal with several different companies for services on your home, call us today at 770-496-1976. We look forward to hearing from you. 

SERVPRO® is Locally Known for its Prompt and Professional Service.

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Monday through Friday at 8:15am the entire staff of SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South begins with a meeting in front of our Work In Progress board.  This WIP board, as it is called, shows our Work in Progress and lets everyone assess and review what work is scheduled for the day and for the week ahead.  This daily meeting is good example of the team approach SERVPRO® takes in providing quality work to our customers.  The corporate theme of “One Team” makes sure that all team members, from the front office to the crew of technicians, know that they each have to play a role in getting the job done.  SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South is locally known for its prompt and professional service.

We offer full-service restoration, meaning we can handle your loss through the emergency service response, mitigation of damage and complete reconstruction.  When clients learn that we can do all stages of the disaster recovery work they are relieved knowing that they will not have to deal with a multitude of people and companies to get the job done.

Our business is one that no one hopes to need, but our hope is that we can assist both homeowners and businesses to be prepared and to know who to call if a disaster strikes.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE/SW is Committed to Helping YOU

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Why use SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South for your water, fire or mold disasters? The main reason to use our company is the type of service we give. We are committed to helping the homeowner or business understand the process of mitigation and to offer the highest quality of service. Our technicians have many years of experience and have the knowledge of how to best apply the guidelines for the restoration process.

Our clients can rely on us to call before we come, to show up on time, to perform the needed mitigation work in a timely manner and to explain the process in extensive detail. We value the confidence that our clients have with us. Our technicians’ high standard of professionalism can turn an unfortunate water or fire damage into a more positive one by our extraordinary customer service.

The Types of Floods We Experience and Their Causes | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South has the team to help you recover from any disastrous event.

Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States, and they claim more lives each year than hurricanes, tornadoes or lightning. There is a risk of flooding everywhere but especially in areas that experience a large amount of rainfall.

Flooding is present in all states and U.S. territories and presents similarities in types and causality. There are three common types of flooding that happen for four usual reasons.

The Types of Natural Flooding

Flash floods are common and occur when heavy rain passes or sits over an area and overwhelms the ground’s ability to control the moisture. Excess water can sweep away items, big or small, or even people who might get caught in the current.

River floods are exactly what they sound like. When there’s too much water for a river’s banks to hold, the water spills over the sides and causes destruction.

Coastal floods happen in areas next to large bodies of water, when storm surges or cyclonic activity causes ocean or gulf levels to rise to flood levels.

Natural Flooding and the Most Common Causes

Heavy rainfall. Flash floods and river flooding can result from storms with excessive rainfall, or storms that sit and rest in an area for an extended period. Urban areas are more at risk for rain floods, because the higher percentage of concrete and asphalt means there’s a lack of soil to soak up all that water.

In 2021, Atlanta saw a total of 53.65 inches of rain, compared to the U.S. average of 30.21 inches. In February of this year, Gwinnett County experienced a significant amount of rainfall that lead to the temporary closure of Liliburn’s Camp Creek Greenway. It was enough to cause the flood-related problems on the Rockbridge portion of the trail. Many trails around metro Atlanta are vulnerable to weather events.

Oceanic activity. Storm surges, hurricanes and rising tides can cause the water levels to rise, which can inundate coastal communities and cause havoc.

Dams and levees failing. A recent example would be the disastrous levee breaks during 2005’s Hurricane Katrina. When cracks develop in levees or dams, excess pressure overwhelms the ability of the dam to hold back the surge of water behind it.

Snowmelts and ice dams. During the winter, in areas where snow and ice can accumulate due to prolonged freezing temperatures, the snow and ice will melt, allowing the water to flow throughout the area. Ice dams or ice jams occur when rivers become blocked by built-up ice being carried downstream, causing the banks to overflow.

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when flooding or water damage makes a mess in your life.

Your Hidden Business Partner | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is your local commercial restoration expert. Contact us today should you experience any damage.

It can be tough to keep things operating smooth as a company owner. As the owner or manager of any sort of business, you are well aware that it takes all the support you can get to keep things moving smoothly. It may be devastating for organizations like yours if disasters hit when you’re unprepared.

Fortunately, you have a built-in secret partner for all of your cleaning and disaster recovery needs. Having SERVPRO to take care of so many areas of your business is basically like having a hidden business partner that is involved in the success of your operations by taking care of a big chunk of it.

Large Loss Recovery. Fires, storms, and floods are three of the most prevalent causes of financial loss for businesses in the United States, and they may cause considerably more harm if not treated quickly. When you call SERVPRO after a property damage emergency, you’ll connect with a top-notch staff of qualified professionals who are accessible 24 hours a day to help you. We can offer you our tried-and-true emergency services and help you recover your footing as quickly as possible.

Emergency Ready Plan. Recovery from disasters can begin before the event ever happens. We can help you in building an Emergency Ready Plan to follow in the case of a crisis. After a disaster, you may require an emergency chain of command, alternate meeting or work places, or temporary suppliers, among other things, and we’ll guarantee that you’re prepared for a single button push that activates everything.

Cleaning of All Kinds. It makes no difference what sort of cleaning service you require. We are competent in managing everything from trauma cleanup to safe biohazard removal, to carpet cleaning and upholstery restoration. We’ve been in this business for a long period of time and have seen and cleaned everything.

Restoration Services. You cannot predict unforeseeable property damage events like when storms will cause flooding, interns start a cooking fire or a waterline will burst. All of these situations need repair and cleaning, which SERVPRO performs better than anyone else. Put your faith in us to restore your organization after a disaster.

Industry Specialization. There is no organization that we cannot help, and we have spent years getting to know them all. We can clean or repair your business regardless of its unique or specific needs. In many situations, we can even separate the work area from the rest of the building’s activities to avoid any disruptions to other aspects of your company.

Whatever your recovery need may be, and whatever your commercial property may require, trust SERVPRO to get the job done. Contact us today to get started on an Emergency Ready Plan or find out how we can serve your business.

SERVPRO- Commercial Water Damage

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage

Being so close to the big city of Atlanta, we have an exponentially large amount of experience with water losses to commercial properties. In some cases, these water damages can be as simple as outside flood water entering the front lobby of your building or as complex as a fire sprinkler discharging on the tenth floor of an office building.  SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is prepared to help you through the process, no matter the extent of the water loss.

Creating a Plan

Our technicians understand that you need to have your business up and running as quickly as possible, but nobody knows your business better than you do!  We also understand that as a business owner or manager you are having to deal with dozens of needs during a crisis: employees, inventory, technology, customers.  We need to understand your priority so that we can develop a plan that works best for you and your business. As soon as we arrive onsite our number one priority is learning your main priority. 

Large Loss Response Team

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is a qualified Large Loss Response Team (LLRT).  Being named an LLRT team member means that we have been vetted for having the resources and experience to handle large commercial losses. When an emergency arises in your business, give us a call at 770-448-5782.

Planning Out the Recovery Steps if Your Business Is Hit By a Disaster

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

As you work to build your business into a successful one, there are many things to be concerned with along the way—however, many business owners fail to be concerned with the dangers of natural disasters and the impact they can have.

Many businesses struggle to reopen in the aftermath of an emergency, but through careful planning and preparation, you can reduce the likelihood of this impacting you.

Safety is always the main concern in regard to disasters, which is why it is wise to plan for keeping your staff safe during emergency scenarios before anything else. Once that is settled, you can begin to think through the recovery steps and what actions you should take in order to get your doors reopened as quickly as possible.

Planning Out the Recovery Steps if Your Business Is Hit By a Disaster

Check with your insurance and restoration companies first. What is considered covered damage to your business after a disaster varies based on your insurance policy, so getting in touch with them quickly is wise to determine the next steps. Afterward, contact your restoration company to get your damage taken care of quickly. In many cases, a commercial restoration company can also work with your insurance on your behalf.

Make customers aware of your plans for reopening. It is important to let your customers know what is happening in the wake of a disaster, whether it is through signage or social media. It is also smart to come up with creative ways that people can still show their support while you are closed, whether it be through online purchases, gift cards or some other avenue that can provide your business with income even while you work to recover.

See what disaster assistance you qualify for. After an event has been declared a disaster, many resources open up to business owners to apply for. The Small Business Administration offers commercial loans for this very reason, which can be used to cover multiple costs and are provided with flexible terms and repayment options to provide the maximum value.

If your business has been damaged due to a disaster, we’re here to help. Contact us at any hour to report your damage or to learn more about our commercial restoration services.

Is Your Business Prepared for a Disaster? | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

If the day comes where your business is hit with disaster or emergency, you can rest assured SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South will be there to help.

When you own a company, you have full-time responsibilities as well as an infinite to-do list. You have a lot on your plate, it’s no secret—whether it’s hiring or payroll, inventory or marketing as well as the work you take home with you after hours.

All of your hard work might be jeopardized if you aren’t prepared for the worst. You’ve put in a lot of effort to get to this point. Don’t you want to do all you can to give your business the best shot to withstand any adversity?

It might be difficult (if not impossible) to get your company back up and running after a fire, storm or other disaster. FEMA reports that 40% of small businesses shut permanently after a catastrophe, with many of those that do reopen closing again within a year.

So, how can you put yourself in the best possible position for a successful comeback after a setback? Having a plan in place for what to do next if your organization is hit by a disaster might be the difference between survival and failure.

Did you know that three-quarters of small firms in the United States have no disaster plan in place? The companies that are prepared for a crisis have a better chance of recovering.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South assists local businesses in disaster preparedness by creating an Emergency Ready Plan that is customized to a company’s requirements, location and industry. If you have a plan in place, you will be able to limit downtime since you will know what to do in the case of a crisis.

Natural disasters are difficult in and of themselves. Make every effort to be prepared to bounce back. We’re here to assist you with your Emergency Ready Plan today.

When your business is ready to prioritize planning and safety to prevent extended downtime, contact SERVPRO to get the Emergency Ready Plan underway from the folks who know all there is to know about disaster and recovery.

SERVPRO Is the One-Stop Cleaning and Recovery Service | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to get the job done.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is a one-stop service for a great many things. You may know us as the company that helped your neighbor with a sewage backup or the team that cleans your office. Or maybe you only know us as a set of big green vans you see around town occasionally.

But whatever you know SERVPRO for, there’s a good chance there’s much more about us that you don’t know. So today we want to spell out some more of our available services for you—because when you need help in any of these areas, we want you to know you can trust SERVPRO to take care of you.

Water damage recovery. Water damage is a major pain for millions of homeowners each year, and SERVPRO has custom solutions for all of them. No matter the nature or size of the damage, we can get your home back in the dry again.

Fire damage recovery. Fires in homes across the U.S. happen twice a minute or more, meaning a lot of homes are damaged every day. We’ve got the tools and training to take care of homeowners dealing with fire-related loss.

Mold removal. Mold is often an unfortunate side effect of water damage, and sometimes it’s a result of atmospheric conditions. Regardless, it can eat away at your home—and it’s not safe to remove major mold damage by yourself.

Storm recovery. We see everything from big thunderstorms to tornadoes in Lawrenceville, and they can leave major damage behind. When storms take a bite out of area homes, we help homeowners recover, restoring as much as we can along the way.

Commercial needs. Businesses need cleanup and recovery, too, and we offer all our services for commercial enterprise for that very reason. From full-size business parks to mom-and-pop shops, we take care of local businesses who need us.

General cleaning. We know what you’re thinking—do you have to wait until a storm floods your basement to get your carpet cleaned? No way! We can help you anytime, with any cleaning task you may need.

Specialty cleaning. There are a lot of different places that get dirty a lot of different ways, and we take care of all of them. If there’s an unusual cleaning need, rest assured we can handle it.

Construction. When the damage is more than surface-level, we can manage that too, even if it means remodeling, reconstruction and full-scale rebuilding.

Add 24-hour service and an easy insurance process to all this, and the picture becomes clear—when you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO to get the job done.

The Fire Tetrahedron (or How to Stop a Fire 4 Different Ways) | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business has any damage, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is ready around the clock to help you recover.

Don’t call it a pyramid, and don’t mistake it for a prism. A tetrahedron is all triangles—four of them, in fact, connected three-dimensionally, as opposed to a pyramid, which has a square base and five sides, or a prism, which has two triangular ends with three rectangular sides connecting them.

Got all that? Good. Let’s get into today’s geometry…er, fire safety lesson.

The geometry comes into play here: The fire tetrahedron represents the four equal components of a fire, each depending on the other for a fire’s outset and survival.

They work in sync and in cycle to make a fire start and keep it alive, and they offer important insight into how we make living fires stop. Let’s look at each side and how it plays into fire management.

The Timeline of Your Water Damage Repair | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, make the call to SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South for A-to-Z cleanup and restoration.

The annoyance and ruination of water damage happens to U.S. homeowners a troubling 14,000 times a day. Statistically speaking, it’s happening at least once somewhere in America while you read this paragraph. And there it goes again.

Obviously, we hope your home stays bone dry as long as you live there, but should the day arise when you need emergency assistance from SERVPRO, here’s how all that will go.

Emergency Contact. When you reach out in a panic, we’ll reassure you and walk you though some guiding questions to help us understand the situation and start putting a plan together. Then we’ll set a time to meet in person. All of this will happen quickly.

Inspection and Water Damage Assessment. Once we arrive on the scene, we can flesh out the plan and stop any water that may still be flowing. We’ll make sure you know if the encroaching water has created any hazards on your property, and we’ll also give you an idea of the items or materials that will likely need replacement.

Water Removal. You’ll never get all that water out with a bucket or a regular water vacuum. That’s why we bring our pumps to make quick work of it.

Damaged Material Removal. The items that are unable to be restored can now be hauled away, expediting the process of restoration for the items and materials that remain.

Cleaning, Sanitizing and Deodorization. Water damage can leave a yucky mess. We’ll use our tools and some old-fashioned elbow grease to rid your home of unwanted stains, smells and depending on the nature of your emergency, harmful contaminants.

Drying. It’s only a short while after water invades that mold begins to grow. Even after the water is pumped out, your home will need some dehumidifying and drying out.

Monitoring. We’ll be carefully watching the entire process, making sure every box is ticked and every surface is cleaned and dried. Don’t you worry about a thing.

Repairs and Construction. Now that everything is dry and in order, we can go about the finishing touches, which may range from replacing carpet to reconstructing entire rooms. Large or small, we’ll be there to oversee every aspect of your water damage restoration.

When water damage strikes, make the call to SERVPRO for A-to-Z cleanup and restoration. We’ll make your damaged property look “Like It Never Even Happened.”

We’re on Call so We Can Be Onsite Fast | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

If you are old enough to recall rotary phones and 8-tracks, you remember an era when there was much more waiting involved in everyday life. It may have been a slower-paced life, but it sure was a lot more boring, wasn’t it?

If you wanted clothes, you had to physically drive to a mall somewhere and browse (on your actual feet) until you found what you wanted. Now you can get what you need in a few simple clicks, and fill your life with other activities until it arrives, depending on your site, as soon as a few hours later. Hope you can stand the anticipation.

It’s true that we live in a day in which waiting for many things has been almost totally eliminated, and in the case of home restoration, that’s a very good thing, both for your home and for your bottom line.

SERVPRO is here for you 24 hours a day, because there’s no time to wait when your home is suddenly damaged by water, fire or some other disaster.

After a fire. Fires act quickly, bringing massive destruction to your home or business. But quickly after the fire settles, you’ve got another problem even in areas left standing. Soot, the tiny, black micro-particles left after combustion in a fire goes unfinished, creates a thick, black curtain that covers walls, floors and other surfaces. And in a matter of minutes, soot goes to work attaching itself to all those surfaces, making stains that are near-impossible to remove.

Soot and smoke need only a few hours to set in irreparably in your home. So when you have a fire, there’s literally no time to wait for restoration to begin—every wasted moment means either more stains and smell, or more reconstruction necessary to get rid of them.

After water damage. Mold doesn’t wait and neither should you. You have only 48 hours after a water damage incident to get your home completely dried and dehumidified before mold growth begins, creating opportunity for health hazards, structural risks and more.

All this to say nothing of urgent situations brought on by weather events, natural disasters, sudden roof damage and the like. The bottom line is you shouldn’t wait, and you don’t have to.

Take advantage of SERVPRO 24-hour emergency service. It’s one more reason we’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

When you need help after a home or business disaster, fast service is a priority, and there’s nobody faster or more prepared than SERVPRO. Call us anytime to take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service.

These Water Damage Figures Will Surprise You | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

If water damage catches you off-guard and leaves you all wet, you’ve got help on your side. Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South.

Don’t panic, but there’s a water war being waged in your home. You may not see it, but every day it’s happening—your pipes, hoses and water appliances are keeping up the valiant effort of not only transporting your water from place to place, but keeping it in line and making sure it doesn’t spew all over the place and wreck your home.

All that water is a good thing, and it’s something you need and rely on every day. But if it gets out of place, it can quickly cause intense damage—that’s why it’s so important to have a well-equipped and maintained plumbing system.

These water damage numbers are ridiculous—let’s read ‘em and weep together.

24. This matches the percentage of all U.S. home insurance claims that happen because of water damage. One in every 50 homeowners will file a claim this year.

48. You have this many hours to get rid of water and moisture before mold growth begins, and in some cases you may have even less time than that.

98. We’d love to say this is the percentage of homeowners who avoid water damage if they think happy thoughts, but it’s not so great—this is the number out of every 100 homes whose basements will take on some kind of water damage during the life of the home.

10,234. Take a guess—did you guess this is the average amount spent to recover a home water incident? Of course you did; great job.

14,000. You know that little square on a calendar that goes around today’s date? Inside that square live 14,000 little pipes that burst and floods that find their way inside homes, because that’s how many times water damage will occur today across the U.S.

13,000,000,000. This number—13 billion dollars—is the amount spent every year repairing and restoring water damage claims in homes.

These numbers are mind-blowing, and they can be a little deflating. But maintaining your home plumbing system and taking care of leaks and moisture right away can help keep you outside these soggy statistics.

If water damage catches you off-guard and leaves you all wet, you’ve got help on your side. Contact SERVPRO to see how we can quickly and fully restore water damage to your home or business.

Prepare Your Home and Family for Winter Weather | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

If winter weather should bring damage to your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South for fast, restorative solutions.

He was a fictional fantasy character, but Lord Stark really knew what he was talking about—winter is definitely coming.

Whether that excites you or fills you with a chilling dread of cold weather, there are some things you need to be ready for. So before your calendar fills up with holiday gatherings and end-of-year festivities, check out a few areas to make sure you’re ready for the chill.

<h3your-family">Protect Your Family

If a winter weather crisis emerged, how prepared would your family be? An emergency action plan will help your family stay in contact, evacuate safely and meet back together at a predetermined spot.

Prepare your cars, too—check the batteries, fluids and tires of every vehicle to ensure they’re ready for winter roads, whether they encounter ice, sleet or heavy rain.

And keep your cars and home stocked with emergency kits full of necessary supplies.

<h3your-home">Protect Your Home

Frozen pipes can be an intense source of water damage if you’re unfortunate enough to experience one. Be ready for those cold snaps that send the thermometer plunging into the ‘teens.

Perform routine maintenance on your home’s heating system as well, making sure it can stand up to the worst winter may bring. Better to have a little work done now than to have it go out on you on the coldest day of the year.

If you burn wood as a source of heat, clean your fireplace and make sure it’s well-ventilated, to avoid potential fire dangers from soot and respiratory dangers from smoke.

<h3your-pets">Protect Your Pets

Pets can’t handle the cold, generally speaking. Bring your pets in from the outdoors for their safety, and give them somewhere comfortable to rest inside.

If you do have livestock or animals equipped for the cold, see to it that they have good shelter and a ready source of water, not ice.

Winter weather around here can surprise you—it only takes one good ice storm to send the region into chaos. But being prepared can give you a leg up on staying safe, protecting yourself and the ones you love from potentially hazardous winter weather.

If winter weather should bring damage or flooding to your home or business, contact SERVPRO for fast, restorative solutions.

The Most Frequent Causes of Fire in the Home | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is here for you if your home is affected by fire.

Fire safety is incredibly important, and we would surely all say that we know it. But to what degree are we living out the knowledge we have?

Studies show we still have a long way to go; in fact, a quarter of all reported fires in the United States are still occurring in the home, despite all that we know about the importance of prevention.

Some of these fires can’t be prevented, but many can. Let’s see what’s going on to get these fires going.

Cooking. Essentially half of all home fires start in the kitchen. These fires have varying causes, but the leading (and yet most preventable) cause is unattended cooking. That’s right, the single most effective thing you can do to prevent a fire in your house is to be attentive when you cook. Stand with your food; that’s really it.

Heating equipment. All heat and combustion invites the risk of fire, but some heaters are more dangerous than others. Portable heaters, especially older ones, present a great hazard, both because of power draw and their tendency to overload or get tipped over. Always remember to keep a three-foot radius around any heat source to avoid potential ignition.

Electrical fires. Electrical fires can spark to life from overloaded or shorted circuits, mismanaged use of power or improper use of extension cords. What’s more, circuits and outlets can degrade over time, and wiring can even be chewed by animals.

Intentional fires. This one is a little hard to swallow, but the research bears it out: Some 8%, or approximately 28,000 home fires per year are started on purpose, meaning somebody intentionally misuses heating elements to set fire to some piece of property.

Smoking materials. This one is both interesting and sad. Though smoking fires comprise only 5% of the total number of home fires, they cause almost a quarter of all home fire deaths. Cigarettes, ash and other materials are always hazardous, especially when people use them while drowsy or otherwise impaired.

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO is here for you if your home is affected by fire. Contact your local team today to see how we can help.

Why You Need Deodorization After a Fire

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and Fire Deodorization

Strong smells often linger after having a fire.  The type of smells that develop are determined by the type of material that was on fire or smoldering.  A hot fire that burned natural building materials will smell different than that of a protein fire from frying or a slow smoldering fire that burned plastics and rubber.  These odors can cause years of problems if they are not handled by a professional.  At SERVPRO of Stone Mountain/Clarkston we employ a multi-step approach to deodorization.

Source Removal

The first step in deodorization is to find the source.  In the case of a fire the area may be obvious, however there are many causes of odor that may not be easily noticed.  Once the source is found by our trained technicians we must remove it. 

Cleaning

The next step in the process is to clean the effected areas.  Many of the soot particles are deposited both on and often inside certain building materials depending on how hot the fire was.  Our technicians are trained on different cleaning strategies dependent on the surface to be cleaned and the soils deposited.

Deodorizing

We employ a combination of pairing and masking deodorization techniques depending on the situation.  Hot fires open the pores of building materials where foul smelling soot can be deposited.  When the fire is extinguished and the materials cool down, the pores of these material shrink, thus trapping odor molecules inside.  In such cases we will use a pairing agent along with a Hot Thermal Fogger to reopen the pores.  The pairing agent will attach to and change the odor molecule so that it no longer smells.

Sealing

While sealing of wood is not always required, we will often do this on studs and structural members.  One of the reasons for sealing is because these building components are often covered up by drywall, or they are located in hard to reach areas.  Summer brings hot weather and as building materials heat up, these materials are capable of releasing odors.  Sealing ensures that any soot not completely eliminated from cleaning remains trapped.

What You Should Know Before Choosing a Service Company | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

You can rest easy knowing you’ve got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South.

Natural disasters, home fires and flooded basements are an unfortunate reality for home and business owners. And when those scenarios present themselves, you’re suddenly forced into some quick decision-making as you try to determine who to trust with the important task of helping you restore or rebuild your property.

It can be difficult in the moment to make a choice, because you may have a glut of options, many of whom provide similar claims for service. But there are some important questions to ask that will help you distinguish a clear choice in your search.

Are They Legit?

When disasters occur, especially disasters that affect a wide area, scammers come out of the woodwork to take advantage. If someone offers you restoration work at a seemingly rock-bottom rate, especially if they have no track record in the area, it’s cause for alarm.

At SERVPRO, we’ve been hard at work for over 50 years, satisfying millions of customers one restored home at a time, and we’ve earned our reputation by keeping promises and providing excellent care.

When prestigious organizations like the PGA Tour entrust us to care for their gorgeous facilities with a meticulous attention to detail, you know you’ll be in good hands when you reach out to us for help at home.

Will They Be There When I Need Help?

If a pipe bursts at night or on a holiday, do you want to wait until the next business day to get help while your carpet soaks in more moisture and mold sets in? We doubt it.

That’s why you can always get in touch with us for emergency service. Your crisis is our crisis, too.

Where’s a Fleet When You Need One?

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is locally operated, based right here in the backyard, and that gives us the edge in providing fast, specific expertise for your situation.

But if something more large-scale is needed, we’ve got the full national network of SERVPRO elite teams upon whom we can call for backup and additional help.

When you call SERVPRO, you can rest easy knowing you’ve got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line. When disaster hits home, contact us to get our local experts and nationwide network on your side.

Catch Water Damage Before It Occurs | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South team if you are dealing with any water damage.

Nobody plans for water damage. There’s no water damage “season” we all look forward to like winter holidays—“Ooh, I hope we get a new refrigerator supply hose leak this year!”

And yet, water damage happens on occasion whether we want it to or not. And though it may not choose a defined date or time to occur, if you’re watchful, you may be able to catch some of its likely manifestations before they happen. Let’s check a few spots.

Toilets. There are only a few spots to check your toilet for leaks, and the most common are the flapper (inside the upper tank where the water flows into the bowl) and the valve seal, the rubber ring on the underside of the tank.

Appliances. Any appliance that uses water is going to use hoses and washers that may give way over time. Keep an eye on your fridge, dishwasher and especially the supply hose for your washing machine. Oh, and how old is your water heater? Units over 10 years old have been known to explode.

Clogged gutters. This is one scenario over which you can exert a great deal of control, because it’s a fairly simple matter to check your gutters occasionally and clean out the debris, dirt and leaves that would work together to cause a dam to form in your gutters. Now where’s that ladder?

Roof damage. Your roof’s job is tough. It works hard day after day, taking a beating from the elements, falling tree limbs, squirrels, all kinds of things. Eventually, even the stoutest roof will show signs of wear, and that wear will allow water to pass through to the wood frame and inside to the attic.

Pipes. Pipes can burst in the winter as frozen water expands inside, and other issues like oxidation or loose joints can cause them to fail at other times. You may even have to deal with tree roots intruding into in-ground lines between your house and the main supply at the street.

Blocked garbage disposals. Grease, potatoes and fibrous vegetable skins can all clog your garbage disposal, causing backups and potential damage. And be careful when you plunge, because if your sink’s joints aren’t fully secure (this happens often with PVC), they may separate with intense plunging.

You can’t stop every leak, even at your most vigilant. But keeping an eye on the condition of the various devices that interact with water regularly can make water damage prevention more of a likelihood.

If a water leak erupts into a big problem at home, you’ve got the best team in the business on your side. Contact SERVPRO today so we can get started.

Keep Autumn Fire Safety in Mind | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Be mindful about fall fire safety. Always remember that SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is the trusted leader in the restoration industry.

Y’all feel it? The sweltering summer heat and dripping-wet humidity are finally backing off, leaves are showing their colors, and there are football games popping up everywhere.

Yes, everything is in place for the triumphant return of fall. Final warm-day plans are in place, and orange and brown decorations are going up everywhere.

As you welcome in the mild, crisp autumn air, let fire safety for the new season be part of your plans as well.

Campfire Safety

Fall may be the best time of year for camping. You’ll likely start a fire for nighttime warmth or roasting s’mores, but be sure that you both build and extinguish it safely.

Make sure any structures, tents or vehicles are at least 25 feet away. Only light your kindling with a normal lighter or matches; never employ the use of kerosene or lighter fluid to start or accelerate your fire. Then you can safely build the rest of your fire.

Never leave your fire to burn by itself while you’re out hiking, and extinguish it completely before you break camp by dousing it repeatedly until there are no embers remaining.

Leaf Burning

By now, your front yard is likely covered with dead leaves, and you want those gone for the sake of your grass. You have a few options—have them hauled away, mulch or compost them, or burn them.

If you opt to burn your trimmings and leaves, be sure you first acquire a permit from Georgia Forestry, and alert your local fire station that you’ll be burning.

Also, be aware that it’s illegal and hazardous to burn anything like household garbage, or anything inorganic.

If you have a metal barrel in which to burn your leaves, that’s best. And make sure your fire is safely away (50 feet or more) from your home or any flammable structures.

Halloween

We’ll likely get into more detail on this later, but as you decorate, keep fire safety in mind.

Hanging decorations and cobwebs during the season of pumpkin-scented candles and bonfires can be more dangerous than you realize, especially if you’re hosting spooky-season parties with adult beverages involved.

If a fire hazard should turn from potential to reality in your home, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry and contact SERVPRO to get your property fully restored right down to the smell of smoke.

Preparing for Summer Storms | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is on the line, ready to make things right.

Summer is a most enjoyable season. It instantly conjures images of sunflowers in bloom, warm evenings at the ballpark cheering on the Stripers and maybe even a vacation to the coast somewhere. The days are long, the lemonade is cold and the sun is close.

But why does it perpetually seem like there’s a 30% chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon?

If you’ve noticed storms are often predicted in the summertime, it’s not just you. Our area averages about 10 rainy days per month, during the summer, and the warm weather combines with the sticky southern moisture to turn those rainy days into stormy ones.

Be Storm-Alert

Storms are our most common weather danger, but that doesn’t mean we should ever treat them lightly. Consult local forecasts or weather apps for accurate forecasts and alerts. An NOAA Weather radio can be a great help as well, because it focuses solely on weather and can keep you informed even if a storm knocks out your power.

Flooding can be difficult to predict, particularly flash flooding, but if an alert is issued, you should reexamine any travel plans you may have, or get home if you’re on the road. If heavy winds are forecast, look around the yard and find objects you may need to move so they don’t get blown away or washed down the street.

Yes, preparing for a storm is mundane, and kind of a chore, but don’t ignore it. Storm-related incidents cause dozens of deaths every year, and an ounce of prevention could prevent a high percentage of them.

Be Storm-Safe

During a storm, be inside if at all possible. This gives you the most protection from lightning and wind. Stay indoors until rain has stopped and you haven’t heard thunder for a half hour—this indicates that the storm has moved far enough away that lightning is no longer a threat.

Tubs and showers are a no-no during a storm, as the water and metal conduct electricity and could harm you should lightning strike. Windows can shatter in heavy storms as well, so sit somewhere out of the way.

Stock up your emergency kit with water, food, medication and other items in case an extended power outage occurs or circumstances dictate evacuation.

Flood waters are dangerous in many ways and should be avoided at all costs. They can carry people and cars away, conceal washed-out roads and conduct electricity from downed power lines. On top of that, they can be full of gasoline and harmful chemicals. Just stay away.

There are any number of dangers that can come into play in a thunderstorm, and it’s always best to be cautious and put things on hold until storms safely pass. If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO is on the line, ready to make things right again.

When Lightning Strikes - SERVPRO of Gwinnett Co. SE&SW

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

The damage from thunderstorms is not always limited to high winds and flooding. Because of the nature of thunderstorms, even those without rain have the potential for lightning strikes, which can be dangerous or deadly.

Storms always carry an electrical charge, meaning there is always a chance they will produce lightning. Lightning bolts are dangerous to humans and objects in their path, as a lightning bolt can reach 500,000 degrees. Knowing the basics of lightning and the hazards it can cause is key to staying safe.

The Basics of Lightning

We’ve discussed that all thunderstorms carry an electrical charge, and a lightning bolt is just a physical manifestation of this electricity, which can strike the ground or across the clouds.

If the lightning does head toward the ground, it will typically seek an object to strike as the air is a poor conductor. If this object happens to be a building, it will make use of the water pipes and electrical wiring to travel toward the ground.

The Basics of Lightning Damage

It is always important to seek shelter if there is lightning imminent. Though the [damages that lightning can cause to a home] are frightening, they are much less dangerous than the damage lightning can cause to a human. If lightning strikes a home it can…

…start fires. Lightning poses a high risk of fire when it strikes a building because it reaches such high temperatures. It can ignite building materials on impact, in addition to causing damage to electrical wiring, which can start a fire later on.

…damage appliances. As lightning routes itself through a home’s electrical wiring, it can transfer its charge along the way. Any electrical appliance not connected to a surge protector is at risk if lightning strikes the home.

…send shockwaves through the home. Shock waves in the clouds are known as thunder, but shock waves on the ground can cause serious damage. These waves travel with lightning and can shatter glass, explode brick and damage a home’s structure with their force.

If your home has been affected by storm damages or lightning-related fires, give us a call today! We are experts in damage cleanup and can restore your damage quickly.

Gwinnett Property Owners Can Trust SERVPRO | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with any damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is your local restoration expert.

Property ownership, whether it be a home or a business, is rife with little fires that have to be put out—that’s part of the job. And as long as those fires remain metaphorical, you should be equipped to handle them.

But when a real fire or other disaster disrupts your status quo, you’re going to need someone outside of your expertise to step in and correct the situation.

That’s when you need us. SERVPRO is the nationwide leader in just this kind of predicament, and there are a hundred reasons why you’re best off with us.

Let’s talk about a few.

We’re Always Ready and Faster to Any Size Disaster

We’ll be onsite to take the reins of your emergency cleanup right away, because we have a team of elite professionals right here in Gwinnett on alert 24 hours a day.

We know every minute wasted means more aggressive mold growth, increased smoke damage or deeper water damage. A speedy response makes all the difference, and the presence of a SERVPRO franchise right here in Gwinnett County means you have a flexible, at-the-ready local team paired with the power and resources of a robust national network.

We’re Trained to Handle Residential and Commercial Services

No home or business is impervious—storms damage commercial and residential property alike. But we’ve spent the last half century crafting solutions to tackle disasters of all shapes and sizes, and we’ve got the right fix for whatever may come up in your home or business.

We’ll Make It "Like it never even happened."

It takes a special commitment to do intensive work and yet leave no scars behind, and that’s exactly what you can expect when we come in to help. We’ll restore your property to its original state or better, and leave no traces that remediation has been done.

We Offer the Services You Need in a Changing World

Disease prevention is more important than ever, and we offer certified sanitation solutions to squash the spread and risk of viruses and pathogens of all kinds. Your space gets clean as a whistle, and your patrons walk in with peace of mind.

Regardless of why you need cleanup or disaster recovery, SERVPRO has the tools, the technicians and the training to get your situation under control. When you’re ready to get help from the best, get in touch with SERVPRO.

Your Yard Can Protect Your House From Wildfire | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged by fire or any other reason, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is ready and able to repair any damage.

Wildfire is a homeowner’s fever dream—the helplessness of watching your home go up against a raging fire. Thankfully you live in Georgia, where that kind of stuff doesn’t happen, right?

Actually, property damage caused by wildfire is a more common occurrence than you may realize. Wildfires happen all over—and with their rate of acceleration and the abundance of fuel for them to devour, it’s a wonder we are ever able to stop them at all.

But we are not totally helpless; there are a few things we can do, other than simply being more careful, to stop the spread of wildfires.

Today we’re learning about “defensible space.”

What Is Defensible Space?

See, NASA has these missiles—no, wait, that’s not it; let’s try again. “Defensible space” is a buffer area with which you can surround your home.

By removing potential fuel like dead trees and leaves, adding hardscape and gravel to the immediate areas around your home, and using purposeful planting and pruning practices, you can decrease the odds that your home will be swallowed up.

Think of defensible space as a protective barrier (aka defense), designed to choke out a fire’s fuel sources as it comes near to your home. Additionally, it gives firefighters their best chance of stopping a wildfire before it breaks through your home’s perimeter.

Defensible space is not required by law in Georgia, but it’s a good fire safety practice to consider all the same.

Why Defensible Space Matters

You may think of wildfires as a California problem, but they can and do happen everywhere in the United States. There were over 59,000 wildfires across the United States in 2020.

Even if you remove California’s astounding 10,000+ fires from that number, the average number of wildfires per state in 2020 was still almost 1,000. And it’s not over—the first six months of 2021 have seen a 25% increase in wildfire occurrence over last year.

Here in Georgia we suffered 1,699 wildfires in 2020, losing nearly 5,700 acres of land to the blazes.

We should take advantage of anything that makes wildfires less likely to impact our homes. Defensible space is just one more way we can protect our property.

If your home is damaged by fire of any sort, wild or not, SERVPRO is ready and able to repair the damage caused. Get in touch today to get the pros on your team.

A Clean That Puts Returning Customers at Ease | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

If you’re business has sanitation and cleaning needs, get in touch with the SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South team.

As recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic continues, families and communities are hoping that “normal” life is on its way back in full, and business owners are hopeful for a full return to economic recovery as well.

But a new challenge for business owners is here: How can you ensure that your business is clean, safe and sanitized, and how can you let returning employees and customers know they’re safe at the same time?

Get Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program gives you both. We’ll sanitize your building with a custom solution that’s proven effective against everything from MRSA to anthrax,, and equip you with ways to let your customers know before they ever walk through the door that their health is a priority.

It’s all possible because of the three C’s:

Consult. Your business is uniquely situated, and we know that means it has sanitation and cleaning needs that other area businesses may not have. We’ll work with you to determine the best set of options for you. It helps that SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is locally owned and operated, so we are already acquainted with many of the intricacies of the greater Atlanta area.

Clean. Once we settle on a sanitation plan, we’ll be hard at work making sure your building is next-level clean. We’ll disinfect your business with exclusive, hospital-grade cleaning methods no one else can offer, and you’ll end up with an extreme level of sanitation that meets or exceeds current CDC standards, is NSF-approved for food safety and is EPA-tested for use around children, elderly individuals and pets. And a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program goes past COVID-19 protection—this clean will fight the germs that cause any number of contagious diseases and virus, so your customers and employees can breathe easy and relax inside your store or office.

Certify. Now you can share your good news with everyone by displaying the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield in your front window, on your door, your website and more. This lets returning customers and potential passers-by know that you care about them, because you’ve gone to lengths many business owners haven’t to care for their health and safety.

If you’re ready to get serious about sanitation and have your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, get in touch today to get the best team in cleanup and restoration on your side.

Severe Storm Preparedness

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

• A severe storm is a common occurrence, but should always be revered as a possible threat. Any storm has the potential to cause significant damage or pose a threat to unprotected people. Make sure you are doing everything you can to keep your household safe. 
• Knowing the difference between a watch and warning, rather it be a tornado or severe thunderstorm. Be sure to have emergency supplies stored near by and having a way to tune into emergency broadcasts to be as prepared as possible.

Be Aware of What Watches and Warnings Mean

When severe weather is on the way, local officials will generally issue watches and warnings to keep the public informed about the current conditions, so it is important to know what they mean. A storm watch is issued if conditions are particularly favorable for a storm to develop, but one has yet to occur in the area.

A storm warning is more serious, as it means storms have been spotted on the ground and are a threat to the area. During a storm watch, you can simply stay alert, but during a storm warning, you should take cover immediately

Have Ample Emergency Supplies Stored

If a storm is nearby, it is important to seek shelter and stay put until the threat passes—which is why having everything you need at home is so highly recommended. Be sure you have enough food and water packed for everyone in your family in case utilities go out, as well as flashlights and extra batteries so you have a light source. You should also have a “safe zone” in the home—somewhere you can go that is sheltered from external walls as much as possible where you can wait out the worst of the storm.

Have Multiple Ways to Tune Into Emergency Broadcasts

While most of us rely on our smartphones to get information about the weather, this method can have some drawbacks and is not reliable during severe weather. Because cell reception can be spotty during severe storms and electricity is often unreliable, make sure you have multiple ways to get alerts that do not depend on the traditional power grid. A non-electric weather radio powered by batteries or manually is often a good solution for this.

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, we are here for you. You can contact us at 770-448-5782. 

A New Record for Severe Storms | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

When storms do damage, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to start the restoration process.

2020 was a taxing, even devastating year for many. And it wasn’t only because of COVID-19: In addition to being a year that brought a global pandemic and a months-long national quarantine, 2020 also set a new record for extreme weather in the U.S.

In fact, 2020 saw more weather disasters than any previous year on record.

The National Weather Service classifies a weather event as a disaster once it causes a billion dollars in damages. 2020 saw 22 such events in the United States, plus many other damaging that didn’t reach that financial standard.

In fact, for only the second time ever, the NWS ran through its complete list of planned storm names for the year and had to borrow from the Greek alphabet to be able to keep up—that’s how we ended up with Tropical Storm Zeta, which took out trees and power in Gwinnett County as it dumped flood-level rains on us in October.

Not Just Hurricanes

One might assume hurricanes are the big ticket item when it comes to storm damage, and they certainly are devastating. But actually, the most expensive disasters of 2020 in the contiguous United States were thunderstorms and tornadoes: of the 22 major events in 2020, 14 of them were thunderstorms and cyclone cells.

For some perspective, here’s a look at the damage a single storm system can cause: In August 2020, a normal-looking line of storms in eastern Nebraska suddenly ramped up its intensity and developed into a disastrous derecho (which is a storm similar to a tornado, but brandishing razor-sharp straight-line winds instead of circular gusts). The brutal storm cut through over 10 million acres of Nebraska’s corn fields—that’s almost 50% of the state’s essential corn crop, and over 11% of the entire country’s corn production, all put in jeopardy by a single storm.

Not Just 2020

One would like to think 2020 was an abnormal year, a one-off occurrence that happened to set a new record. But in each year of the last decade, the NWS has registered at least eight billion-dollar disasters. 2018 and 2019 combined for $136 billion in total damages, and 2017 set a record $300 billion in damage costs.

The bottom line is that storms happen everywhere, and they happen year-round, so it pays for every home and business owner to take proper care when storms called for. But should those precautions prove insufficient in an overpowering weather disaster, remember that SERVPRO is right here with ²⁴⁄₇ emergency support.

When storms do damage, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO today to see how we can help.

Fireworks during Summer Holidays

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

Fireworks are a great way to help celebrate the summer holidays. Keep these safety tips in mind before lighting up your celebration. Remember fireworks injure 10,000 people per year, so keep your family safe.

• Always have adult supervision
• Keep fireworks away from children. Sparklers can burn up to 1200 degrees
• Always wear eye protection
• Never light fireworks indoor or near grassy areas
• Obey local laws regarding fireworks
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix
• Follow label instructions
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person
• Always have an bucket or water or hose near by
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers
• Light one firework at a time
• Never attempt to re-light a firework
• Never have any portion of your body over the firework
• Don’t experiment with homemade fireworks
• Buy only fireworks from a legal source
• Keep your pets indoors and away from fireworks

Unfortunately, accidents happen. In case of fire or water damage call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW at 770-448-5782. We are available 24/7 to help!

Grill Safely This Spring & Summer | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to learn more.

Spring gives us a fresh invitation to life. Cold weather is behind us, days are growing long and the weather is mild.

Kids are anticipating school’s end, vacations are being planned and we’re all itching for some outdoor activity before summer swelters take over.

Spring also begs us to break out the grill and get cooking. Whether it’s a cookout or a reunion, a gender reveal or a graduation celebration, we’ll find nearly any excuse to grill some chicken wings, burgers or steaks.

But this increase in outdoor activity also portends a rise in accidental fires. In fact, spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year. So before you get fully into your backyard activities, let’s look at a few causes of backyard blazes you can take care of this season.

The grill. The combination of flame, heat, grease and gas makes grills a prime suspect for backyard fires, and rightfully so. Here’s a quick checklist for safe grilling: Make sure the grill is in good working order, with no leaks or rust holes, and keep it away from anything flammable (including the house). And don’t forget how important it is to keep your grill and its components clean. Almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.

The fire pit. Conversations and marshmallows abound around the fire pit, and everyone loves to spend a cool evening at the social center of the backyard. But make sure you’re operating it safely; you’re literally hosting an open fire. Use a grill grate, and avoid adding leaves or pine needles to the fire, as they create embers that are easily carried by a gust of wind into the yard or toward the house. And use a bucket of water as a safety measure, allowing you to douse any errant flames and safely, slowly, extinguish the fire when the night is over. Make sure everything is cool to the touch before you go.

Chimneys and dryer vents. While fire safety is on your mind, clean the ash and soot from your chimney to avoid flammable situations in the fall, and check your dryer’s vent pipe to make sure there’s not built-up lint in there waiting to be ignited.

Your local SERVPRO technicians are on hand ²⁴⁄₇ for emergencies. If you encounter fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we will be there faster and have it cleaned up sooner. Call or click today and experience the SERVPRO difference.

House Fire? What to do?

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

1. Ask whether it is safe to enter the home. Do not enter if the fire authorities deem it unsafe. They may establish a safety zone, but never assume a room is safe, until it has been cleared to enter.
2. Know who to call.
1. Contact family members and let them know you are safe and unharmed.
2. Contact your insurance agent. They will be able to talk you through the necessary steps, including proper documentation and emergency lodging and living expenses (keep all of your receipts!) The insurance company may assist in securing a company to help with clean up options.
3. You may request a fire mitigation company at this time for contents cleaning, structure cleaning, restoration etc. Contact SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County at 770-448-5782
3. Secure the property to prevent possible looting. SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County SE & SW is available to assist with securing property/ Board Ups.
4. If water hoses were used to exterminate the fire, drying your home is critical. It is best to call the professionals at SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County SE & SW to do water/ fire cleanups. Water can lead to mold damage if not dried properly. Our company is an approved restoration contractor for many major insurance carriers and adheres to the highest standards in the restoration industry.
5. Seek counseling if needed. Children and adults can feel a traumatic sense of loss and may need help to avoid a lasting sense of sadness and disorientation after a house fire. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. A house fire is a traumatic event and individuals need to be treated with respect and compassion by those close to the process of rebuilding.

Commercial Disaster? Call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

When you're a business owner and you run into an unexpected commercial disaster, you should call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW at 770-448-5782. We can immediately dispatch technicians to come assess any situation that is stopping your business from operating. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW will do everything in our power to help you and your business when trouble arises. 

Tips until SERVPRO arrives:

• Shut off the water source, if identified.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• DO NOT use regular vacuum to remove water
• Locate insurance information
• When we arrive we will do a very thorough dry out and complete it in a timely manner. We practice the science of drying...and we specialize in restoring your property. We are a "One Stop Shop" – Which means we are a company that can dry out your property, take care of your contents, and rebuild if necessary. Call our franchises SERVPRO of Stone Mountain/Clarkston at 770-496-1976, we are available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your commercial needs.

Flooding at Your Place of Business

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Preparing for a flood is one of the smartest things that a business owner can do, even if they are not in an area typically prone to flooding. Statistically, 90% of natural disasters involve flooding and commonly impact areas that are not usual flooding targets.

Increasing your emergency preparedness by planning for a flood is a great idea not only for the safety of yourself and your staff but also for the continuity of your business. By planning in advance and preserving documentation, you can be more prepared to reopen after the flooding passes.

How to Prepare

It is not uncommon for business owners to not know where to start on flood preparations, but thankfully there are many resources out there. Some things to do include:

• Use the FEMA Flood Map and locate your building in order to determine any geographical risks you might face.
• Place copies of important documents in a secure location you will be able to access following a flood.
• Educate employees on your official flooding action procedures, which will ensure everyone knows what their role is in a flood scenario.
• Identify evacuation routes from various locations around the building and host regular drills.
• Consider the idea of adding flood insurance to your business policy.
• Store non-perishable food and water in case you face wait times for emergency personnel to arrive.
• Raise up any valuable electronics out of the water’s path.

How to Decide What Documents to Copy

When it comes to copying documents, it is better to have anything you think you might need instead of failing to remember something. Some important things to include are:

• An outline of your business continuity tasks
• Means of contact for any staff members and third-party services you may need to contact
• Your insurance agent’s contact information
• Detailed steps for recovering computer files that have been backed up
• Financial documents such as bank account information

If your business has experienced a flood, we are always here to help. Call us at 770-448-5782 to get our team of professionals to your business quickly so you can get back on track.

Signs Your Basement May Be Water-Damaged | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is a full restoration company. Our team is on call and ready to help you determine the best course of action.

A basement can be a helpful, useful addition to your Gwinnett home. It can serve as a storage area for your Pokémon collection, your old comic books or your baseball cards. You can make space for your drum set or your flower business, or you can furnish it with a couch bed for your college student who needs a place to chill during the summer.

Basements are versatile, to be sure—but whatever their configuration, they do have an Achilles’ heel, in the form of accumulated moisture. Because they’re dug out of the ground, they are prone to take in water over time from the surrounding soil.

While it’s not guaranteed that you’ll experience water damage, you can’t have those Pokémon cards getting damp, so it’s good to know what you’re up against and what you’re looking for.

So let’s examine the most common signifiers of basement water damage, and if you discover that these are happening in your own basement, you know where to turn for fast, reliable remediation.

The Most Common Water Damage Signs

Unpleasant, musky odors. Though the water that leaks inside your basement may not be unclean to begin with, it can quickly allow bacteria to grow as it settles in, and when it begins to evaporate, it will give off a musky smell. Many people just operate under the assumption that basements naturally smell this way, but that shouldn’t be the case. This smell indicates that mold and mildew are present in the environment, and you definitely don’t want to be dealing with that. You may not see them right away, but your nose is telling you there’s a problem.

Flaking paint on masonry or walls. Bubbles, flakes and cracks in your interior paint are sure signs that water has found its way inside. Even if your blocks or walls are coated with so-labeled waterproof paint, eventually they will be unable to hold back the proof. Water finds a way in and down, and no paint will hide it forever.

Foundational cracks. While homes do shift over time, large cracks in the foundation aren’t normal, and they could be signs of a big water leak that has gone unnoticed. Cracks can also show up in the floor, the ceiling or in your walls, indicating that your structure is under pressure because of an unstable foundation. Hairline cracks inside aren’t a major worry, but if they start to grow, get them looked into right away.

If you notice any of these signs in your basement, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more.

What Makes a Thunderstorm So Dangerous? | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can pop up at any moment. Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South if you experience any damage.

Although thunderstorms are a common weather occurrence, they can be very dangerous. Georgia typically sees these storms during the spring and summer months, so preparation before high season is key.

These storms can bring with them high winds, lightning, hail, flash flooding and other issues that can cause damage to people, pets, and property in a hurry.

Thunderstorms are defined as any storm that has thunder, and since thunder doesn’t come without lightning, this hazard is present as well. A severe thunderstorm is categorized as such when the storm contains hail that is at least one inch in diameter and straight-line winds of at least 58 miles per hour.

We’ll take a look below at some of the most significant hazards associated with thunderstorms so that the next time one comes through Gwinnett County, you and your family will be prepared.

3 Main Dangers that Come With Thunderstorms

Lightning strikes. Damage to property and injury to a person is one of the more threatening elements of a thunderstorm. It has recently been reported that lightning strikes are the cause of about 300 injuries every year. Lightning is also the cause of significant damage to homes, such as starting a house fire or toppling trees that can seriously damage permanent sturdy structures. Remember: Even if you don’t see lightning, a thunderstorm has a typical diameter of 15 miles so it can still be a threat despite low visibility.

Hail damage. Hail can be one of the more damaging parts of a thunderstorm due to the size of the hail and the speed that it falls. Hail that is one inch or larger can put holes in shingles, cause dents in vehicles, and do serious harm to people, pets or livestock that are not adequately protected.

Flash flooding. While driving during downpour conditions are never ideal, the depth of standing water on the road can be even more difficult to judge. If a storm drain backs up or a small roadside ditch becomes filled with water, road conditions can become very dangerous, and it is possible for a vehicle to be swept away in as little as 12 inches of water.

Georgia faces its share of storms each year, and significant damage to homes and businesses is possible. If there is damage to your property from a thunderstorm, you can reach us ²⁴⁄₇ to discuss how we can help get your property back to pre-storm conditions.

You Can Always Get Help From Home Restoration Experts | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South today. We work with you and your insurance company to get things back to normal quickly.

When you’re planning for the next year, chances are that you aren’t thinking about what you’ll do when a disaster happens.

But maybe you should think about it. According to industry experts, about one in 20 American homeowners will file a claim for some type of home damage this year.

That statistic includes all common causes of damage, like water, fire, wind, storms and more. Home accidents and appliance malfunctions are included in this statistic, too.

Not every damage incident with an associated claim will need restoration in order to get their home back to its original state. But many homeowners find themselves in need of professional services.

That’s why it’s a good idea to think about where you want to get help before something happens.

Home Disaster Numbers in America

The Insurance Information Institute provides a lot of statistics that are helpful, including the overall homeowners insurance statistic.

But III also choose to break down the causes of damage individually, so homeowners could use the information.

Water damage is the most common single type of damage, with about one in 50 homeowners filing one of these claims during the year.

Fires aren’t as common. About one out of every 350 American homeowners will deal with a fire damage claim each year.

Training Makes All the Difference

Our team members pride themselves on offering an excellent level of restoration services. It matters on a number of levels, including response time, availability and training.

But we take special pride in the level of training our technicians achieve.

Beyond the training offered by SERVPRO at a national level, our technicians earn valuable certifications through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. This non-profit group provides an array of certifications to ensure restoration and cleaning technicians are able to use the latest proven techniques when restoring your home.

So you can rest assured that your home is in good hands.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

We Take Pride in Customer Service

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Why use SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South for your water, fire or mold disasters?  The main reason to use our company is the type of service we give.  We are committed to helping the homeowner or business understand the process of mitigation and to offer the highest quality of service.  Our technicians have many years of experience and have the knowledge of how to best apply the guidelines for the restoration process.

Our clients can rely on us to call before we come, to show up on time, to perform the needed mitigation work in a timely manner and to explain the process in extensive detail.  We value the confidence that our clients have with us.  Our technicians’ high standard of professionalism can turn an unfortunate water or fire damage into a more positive one by our extraordinary customer service.

Count on US to be Ready!

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

We understand that emergencies never happen at a good time. That’s where we can help! No matter whether you have water, mold or smoke damage, you can count on us to be ready. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South has a qualified team that can begin your emergency restoration services today.

Water Damage

Suffering severe water damage from flooding water or a burst pipe needs immediate attention. The water needs to be extracted so that drying can take place as soon as possible. The longer water sits in your home or business the greater chances of having secondary damages such as mold. We have a team of trained water technicians on call 24 hours a day. When you call our number after hours you will get a live person who will page the water team that is on call. Our average call back time for the technician responding is just 14 minutes.

Mold Damage

If you see mold inside your home or office then give SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South a call. We have trained IICRC technicians certified as Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians that can remediate the problem. Mold estimates are scheduled by our office administration team during regular business hours. There is a service fee for scheduling a technician to visit your home and develop a written estimate for remediation. This service fee is deducted from the estimate if you select us to complete the work.

Mold often appears from water damage that is not seen or was not dried properly. Sometimes mold is not visually present but there is a moldy or stale smell in the air. In this case you will need to call an Industrial Hygienist to come and sample the home. They will send these samples to a lab to determine what types of mold are present and if you have a problem that needs our attention.

Fire Damage

Fires can be destructive along with the soot and smoke that are also present. Fire damage requires emergency service as soon as possible. Securing the home from unwanted visitors and mitigating corrosive damage to metals that can become pitted from the acidic soot are just a few of the items that require immediate attention. We are trained, licensed and insured to handle all the problems that come from having a fire.

Protect Your Snellville Home From Heavy Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

If you need help dealing with any damage caused by water, contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South today.

If you’re a homeowner in Snellville, you’ve probably already thought a lot about the ways severe weather (and water) can damage your home.

You probably have a plan in place for flash floods, strong thunderstorms, or home malfunctions like burst pipes or refrigerator line failures. But there are water damage hazards you might not have considered.

Have you thought about the damage heavy rains can do?

You may not have. But rain can damage your home, and rain is more common than natural disasters we dread, like flash floods or tornadoes.

Here’s some good news. Rain damage, in many cases, can be prevented if your home is thoughtfully maintained.

Stopping the Damage From Heavy Rains

Members of our team are experts in water damage. So we see many of the issues that can lead to preventable water damage firsthand.

Our team has some helpful ideas to make your yard and home safer this spring and summer.

Take stock of your yard. Knowing how your yard drains (and how it works with your home) is vital. If you notice that your yard is draining toward your home, then you might want to get in touch with a landscaping expert to look for ways to protect your yard.

Choose to landscape your yard thoughtfully. Many people choose plants and flowers because they like the aesthetic they create. But choosing landscaping items for protection can ensure your home is ready for heavy rain. Native plants, trees and bushes can be vital in protecting your home from water damage.

Consider sealing your roof. Sealing your roof can help protect your home from wind and water damage. In fact, experts estimate that almost 95% of water damage is caused by water seeping through gaps in your roof and shingles, which can be prevented with this step.

If you need help dealing with damage caused by water, fire or any other issue, we’re here to help you restore your home. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about us and how we can help you restore your home to its original state.

We Can Support Five Forks Business Owners During Difficult Times | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to learn more.

Did you know a member of the community owns your local SERVPRO?

That’s important because we’re invested in our community’s success. Five Forks business owners like you can count on our team to help you when you need support. We want you to be successful because we want the community to do well.

We also get how hard you work to ensure your business is successful. It takes a lot to research and plan your business. And there’s a lot more work that goes into actually operating your business once it’s open. As it grows, you want to be sure you’re prepared to expand, meet your customer’s needs and operate at your best potential.

We’ve all had to think about how we do business and reach customers during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. That means we’re always looking for ways to improve the efficacy and safety of the businesses we operate.

Though many businesses in the area have already opened back up, navigating the waters of running a business during the pandemic isn’t easy. And you want to do it efficiently and safely.

Where You Can Find Resources

You can find great tools to help you learn more about available business loans and tips, advice and more from trusted local and national resources.

We’re here to help you, too. Our job is to ensure your office, store or restaurant is ready for customers.

Our team will get your business “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.” That means we’ll use the latest technology to ensure your business is safe for everyone. Here’s how we do it:

We’ll consult with you about your needs.

Then we’ll clean your space by using proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions. Our cleaning and decontamination standards come directly from the CDC.

Finally, our teams certify your space. That means you can rest assured that you’re ready to be open for business.

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our cleaning services and how we can help you.

What are some of the causes of commercial water losses?

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms.   However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings.  

1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency.  

3. Broken pipes and plumbing Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result.   

4. Backed up sewer lines This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings.   

If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South will get you back up and running again. Call us anytime 24/7 at 770-448-5782 for fast help.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is Here for Business Owners

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage

Being so close to the big city of Atlanta, we have an exponentially large amount of experience with water losses to commercial properties. In some cases, these water damages can be as simple as outside flood water entering the front lobby of your building or as complex as a fire sprinkler discharging on the tenth floor of an office building.  SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is prepared to help you through the process, no matter the extent of the water loss.

Creating a Plan

Our technicians understand that you need to have your business up and running as quickly as possible, but nobody knows your business better than you do!  We also understand that as a business owner or manager you are having to deal with dozens of needs during a crisis: employees, inventory, technology, customers.  We need to understand your priority so that we can develop a plan that works best for you and your business. As soon as we arrive onsite our number one priority is learning your main priority. 

Large Loss Response Team

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is a qualified Large Loss Response Team (LLRT).  Being named an LLRT team member means that we have been vetted for having the resources and experience to handle large commercial losses. When an emergency arises in your business, give us a call at 770-448-5782.

Tips for Protecting Your Home This Spring and Beyond | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

If you experience any property damage from spring storms, contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South.

Here in Georgia, we’re lucky that our winters are relatively mild (especially when compared with what our friends in the Midwest and Northeast face). But that doesn’t mean we don’t have spring fever, too.

Inevitably when we flip the calendar from February to March, it’s time to start dreaming about what a new, warmer season will bring.

Gwinnett County residents might want to plant some flowers or tomatoes, plan a barbecue, or drive out to the country and take a hike. It can be as simple as dreaming about pulling your grill out and making some steaks.

While spring brings many great things to our area, it also brings the threat of severe weather and storms.

We can’t control or prevent the weather, but we can make our homes safer. These tips can help you do that.

Making Your Home Safer from Stormy Water

Add these projects to your to-do list today!

Don’t wait to cut heavy limbs or branches hanging over your home. Many people love healthy, mature trees. But when the stems are over your roof or garage, they can fall when the winds get high and heavy. Cut them down.

Check and clear your gutters. This step is so vital we recommend doing this every season. Keep any water that comes near your home moving in the right direction instead of backing up and causing water damage.

Look for any signs of damage to your roof.Specifically, check for any missing shingles or leaks. Repairing them will help protect your home from water damage.

Be sure your home’s sump pump works. Your family may not have or need one of these. But if you do, keeping it working the right way protects your home from water damage.

Don’t leave items around your home loose. Don’t let unsecured furniture or other similar items become tools for wind damage. Trim back trees that need it and ensure everything you can.

If a fire, flood or any other cause damage to your home, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.

Disaster Recovery Advice for New Hope Business Owners | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South knows the commercial restoration process inside and out. Here are some of our best tips.

Did you know that having a disaster plan in place for your business is an effective way to set yourself up for a faster recovery?

It’s true. But even with the best plan in place, the aftermath of a disaster can be challenging to manage. After all, it’s one thing to have a plan for how you’ll handle it and another to put it in place.

Because we regularly work with business owners who need our expertise and support to complete a restoration process, we know a lot about what it takes to get a business up and running again. Our team has pulled together some of our best tips to help business owners deal with the first stages of the restoration process.

Help With Your First Steps

Here are some things you should consider doing if a disaster (like a storm or a fire) impacts your business:

Remember to follow your plan. Dealing with damage to your business is a shock, but it’s vital at this step to remember and implement your disaster plan. Depending on what you do, that might include moving to a backup location.

Be responsive to your insurance company. You’ll have to work closely with your insurance company to ensure your restoration process runs as smoothly as possible. One of the best ways to do that is to document everything well. Take plenty of (pre-cleanup) pictures and inventory any damaged equipment or stock.

Take the steps you can to help your employees. There are resources available for small business owners and their employees affected by the disaster. You can check with organizations like the Small Business Administration (SBA) for help and ideas.

Update your community. Regularly connect with your suppliers, your employees, your customers and your community.. Social media is the right way for you to reach your wider community, but consider reaching out personally to your employees, suppliers and your loyal customers.

If your business is damaged due to fire, water or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE&SW has a Reconstruction Department

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Having unexpected damage to your home can cause extreme stress. Having one company come to your home to repair the source of the damage, a different company to do the demolition or mitigation, and then a third service to come and complete your repairs may add to that unexpected stress. We  have found that most of our customers enjoy using one company from start to finish. 

Here at SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW that is most certainly possible. Our Franchise has  a team for both mitigation and construction. Our teams of mitigation and reconstruction work together from start to finish on several of our clients to help put our customers at ease when dealing with unexpected damage to their home. 

While estimate fees are usually required by other construction companies to send in a repair estimate to a client's insurance company, our Reconstruction Department waives that fee for any customer who had SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW to complete the mitigation services needed on their home. 

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County SE & SW strives to make these uneasy processes go as smoothly and stress free as possible for our customers. If you are like most of our clients and do not wish to have to deal with several different companies for services on your home, call us today at 770-496-1976. We look forward to hearing from you. 

We’re Right Here When You Need Fast Restoration Services in Harbin | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged due to a disaster, Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South. From start to finish, we will be here to help.

Our teams are here to help Harbin residents and the surrounding communities any time they need home restoration help and services promptly from a team who understands that each home and family we serve is unique.

Residents of Harbin, Lawrenceville and Snellville may need help from restoration professionals for various reasons. Sometimes homes are damaged by severe weather issues, like wind, hail and rain,. Other issues, like accidents and appliance malfunctions, are also common culprits for homeowner woes.

We understand that every claim is different, but in our years working in the restoration business, we’ve found that they also have one thing in common. These claims have the best outcomes when the process starts sooner rather than later.

Minutes make a difference when your home is damaged. It’s important because fire damage and water damage can start to worsen within a few hours. For example, the wood starts to warp quickly. The first signs of mold and mildew, like a musty smell, can show up within a few hours.

Get in Touch With SERVPRO’s Experts

Our team understands that damage can move quickly, so we’re available at any time to answer your call and start the damage restoration process. That means we’re here on weekends, overnight and on holidays. If you call, we’ll answer you and start the process ²⁴⁄₇ during an emergency.

There are other good reasons to choose SERVPRO, too. Here’s what makes us different:

Our teams are staffed with expert technicians. The technicians you’ll meet are all trained and certified in the latest water damage restoration techniques and procedures. They’ll bring that wealth of knowledge to help your home recover from damage.

Our teams have the latest technology. We’re part of a trusted, national company. That means our technicians can use powerful, effective technology to make a personalized plan for your family.

We’re a locally owned and operated business. We’re always here to help our friends and neighbors. We take pride in the work we do.

If your home is damaged due to fire, water or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Ask Yourself These Fire Safety Questions This Winter | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

House fires tend to peak during the winter. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South are available 24/7 in the event of an emergency.

Household fires are a common winter threat, and they’re most common in December and January.

If you’re like most homeowners, you may wonder what you can do to make your home a safer place and prevent these types of fires. Your local SERVPRO team is here to help you understand what you can do to lower your fire risk.

How Would You Answer These Fire Safety Questions?

One of the first steps to making your home safer is understanding what steps you should take to do it. Your answers to these questions are an excellent place to start:

Do you know the basics of kitchen safety? Grease fires can happen in any kitchen, and they’re a common hazard. Keeping a fire extinguisher accessible while you’re cooking can prevent one of these incidents from growing into a destructive fire.

Can you use your fireplace safely? Fireplaces that are dirty or clogged create a fire hazard. If you do decide to enjoy a crackling fire, be sure you’re disposing of the ashes correctly.

Do you know how to find natural gas leaks? Natural gas leaks are usually first noticeable by smell. If you notice the smell of natural gas in your home, act immediately to cut off your gas and get help to your home. Natural gas leaks are a significant fire hazard.

Do you practice good candle safety? Burning candles can create a nice ambiance in your home. But they can also be a fire hazard if you’re not careful. Don’t leave candles burning when you aren’t home. And, if you find that you’re forgetful when you leave them burning, then consider buying battery-operated candles for a similar effect.

So, what’s the good news? Regardless of how you answered these questions, you can move forward from today knowing what you need to do, and you can make most of these changes by switching up your habits and being more aware of what’s going on in your home. It won’t take a considerable investment of time or money.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Your Guide to Dealing With Water Damage in Snellville | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

Do you have any water damage to your walls or ceiling? Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County S, we will help guide you through the restoration process.

Can you recognize the signs of water damage in your home? If you can’t name them from memory, you’re not alone.

Many homeowners aren’t certain when they need professional water damage remediation services or when it’s safe to clean up a leak themselves with a mop and bucket or some old towels.

If you’re a Snellville homeowner, your local SERVPRO team is here to help you determine how much damage water has done to your home and what type of restoration services you need.

That’s important because serious water issues can result in damage to your home within just a few hours or days.

Here’s what you might see when your home has water damage that needs remediation by professionals:

You can smell an unusual, musty odor. A strong, musty smell is among the first signs that mold is encroaching on your home. So if you smell that type of odor, it’s a good idea to start the remediation process by calling in professional technicians for an evaluation.

Your windows or walls are warped. Wood in your home will begin to warp if the water damage is severe. That means it’s essential to get remediation help if you notice wood damage.

The floorboards or furniture are deteriorating. Wet wood will start to warp within days. If that happens in your home, it’s best to start seeking help from professionals who can help you restore your home.

Water Damage Claims Are Common

Water damage claims are continuing to rise steadily year over year. And even before they started growing over the past few years, they were the most common type of claim that homeowners file.

Keep in mind that this isn’t a sign that all types of homeowners insurance claims are rising. Experts have also found through analyzing data that fire damage claims have been falling over the years.

Bottom line: If you do end up needing water damage help in 2021, you won’t be alone.

If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, you can count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services.

Gwinnett County Experts Are Here to Help You With Fire Damage l SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage due to a heating malfunction or other issue, count on SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to fully restore your home.

No one wants to think about what happens after a house fire. But that situation will become a reality for millions of homeowners over the next year, including in our community. If you are dealing with the aftermath of a house fire, our team wants to help you restore your home.

Here’s why people who live here see us as a trusted partner for fire damage remediation and restoration:

We restore things before you replace them. Our team works with you to remediate the damage in a logical, economical way. Our goal is to guide you through the process economically and logically, saving you money on your repairs and your insurance premiums. We’ll make it "Like it never even happened," at all.

We can help with the whole process. Did you know fires can cause water damage? They also cause smoke damage to your home’s walls, upholstery, furniture and curtains. We have the skills and equipment needed to repair these problems.

We’re locally owned and operated. SERVPRO is a national company. But our business is located in Gwinnett County and owned by a resident. That means our teams have access to the resources and training of a growing national company. We bring the advantages of that partnership to the jobs we do in the community.

We’re available to help ²⁴⁄₇. Fires don’t always happen during regular working hours. Beginning the restoration process is a vital step in restoring your home to its original state. Timing matters during an emergency, so our team is available at any time when you need help.

Winter Fire Hazards

Fires aren’t a seasonal safety risk, but they are more likely to occur during the winter. This season presents unique fire risks, including everything from toppled space heaters to accidents involving kids and candles.

Fires involving Christmas trees are common. But malfunctioning furnaces and mishaps with the kitchen stove are common winter fire culprits, too.

If you have fire damage in your home due to a kitchen, heating or other fire, you can count on us for restoration assistance. Our team is always ready to meet your needs and help you restore your home. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services.

Planning in Advance for a Burst Pipe | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, contact us right away. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is available 24/7.

It is never enjoyable to discover your home has undergone water damage, but if you are faced with a burst pipe, it can be quite shocking indeed. Because of the volumes of water they can produce, a burst pipe can lead to significant amounts of damage in a short amount of time.

Most people are surprised to discover just how common water damage can be. It is estimated that every year, at least one out of every 50 homes are impacted by water damage in America, but those who have planned ahead tend to experience much less severe damages.

How Can I Reduce the Damage From a Burst Pipe?

Shut off your water main. If a pipe bursts in your home, the water rushing in will not stop until the water is cut off entirely. Locating and turning off your home’s water at the source can stop the water from rushing into the impacted area.

Shut off your electricity. Making sure your electricity is turned off (if it is safe to reach your breaker box) is a smart way to prevent secondary damages from occurring if water comes into contact with wiring or electronics.

Contact your restoration company. Choosing a restoration company that you can contact 24 hours a day is a great way to ensure you can get in touch immediately should anything go wrong. The faster you start the restoration process, the easier it will be to mitigate the damages.

Take a record of the damages. Recording what has been damaged throughout your home is helpful for you, and will come in handy if you are able to file an insurance claim, too. Pictures, videos and lists can help make sure that nothing falls through the cracks as you begin to recover.

Contact your insurance company. Because each insurance policy is different, contacting your provider as soon as you can will help you determine if you are eligible to file a claim and how to go about it if you are.

Open windows and doors if possible. As you wait for your restoration company, wiping up water and opening windows and doors can aid the drying process and lessen the overall damage that the burst pipe caused.

If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, you can count on us for restoration assistance. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services.

How Dangerous Flash Floods Can Be After Storms | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is your local water & storm restoration expert. We will get the job done right, contact us today.

Regardless of what type of severe weather events are taking place, all of them should be taken seriously with safety being a top priority. However, this is something that is especially true when flash floods are a possibility, because of how dangerous they are. Floods cause the second-highest rate of fatalities related to weather in the United States and flash floods are the most dangerous type of flood there is.

There is rarely much notice involved with a flash flood, leading to people being caught by surprise in areas that are not typically involved in any type of flood incident. Flash floods can turn any body of water or drain dangerous, and it is so important to keep track of safety tips that could save your life.

Defining a Flash Flood

There are several different types of floods, but what makes a flash flood so dangerous is how quickly it can come about. When heavy rainfall occurs, flash floods will happen in less than six hours after they begin, often happening closer to three. These conditions create a scenario where people are not given enough notice and have very little time to evacuate or get to higher ground.

The Alert Systems for Flash Floods

If there is severe weather, it is important to tune into your local weather broadcasts so you can be privy to all the alerts that are issued, especially if there is heavy rainfall.

A flash flood watch will be issued when conditions are right for a flash flood to begin, while a warning means that one is imminent and you should take action quickly. Flash flood emergencies are extremely rare, but those are quite deadly and you should always move to high ground as quickly as you can.

Safety Tips for Flash Flood Precautions

When it comes to a severe weather event, safety is always the top priority—and in a sudden severe weather event, it is best to have the top safety tips memorized so you can act quickly under pressure.

• Stay alert if rainfall is heavy and prolonged, and stay tuned to local weather updates.
• Create a full evacuation plan that everyone is aware of how to execute.
• Always avoid crossing flood water, both when you are walking or driving.
• Do not come into contact with floodwater if it can be at all avoided.
• Know several evacuation routes you can take in case water blocks one or more of them.

If your home or business has been damaged due to a flood or other severe weather, you can depend on us. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our services or to report damage to your property.

Keep Fires out of Your Holiday Celebrations | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure your fire risk is low during the holidays. If you experience any damage, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South will be here to help.

It is possible for a fire to begin no matter what time of year it is, but during the winter months, it is wise to be extra cautious about them. Winter is the season when most fires begin in houses as reported by the Red Cross, because there are far more activities occurring that make them likely to occur.

Wintertime is the season of making big meals, baking goodies, turning up the heat and decorating the home—but with each of these things comes a risk. These things can still be enjoyed as long as safety remains at the forefront of concern.

Practicing Fire Safety During Winter Activities

Keep safe when cooking. At any time of year, cooking has been shown to be the top cause of house fires—and during the winter season, it becomes even more prevalent. Cooking and baking are a fun way to enjoy winter treats, but it is important to always practice fire safety in the kitchen and keep a fire extinguisher handy in case there are any flare-ups that can quickly be put out.

Heat the house with proper precautions. The warmth of a fireplace or space heater is nice, but these things present serious dangers when used improperly. Space heaters have gotten safer with recent technological developments, so it is smart to make sure you are using a model with built-in safety features. For fireplaces, regular chimney maintenance is key and a fire should never be left to burn unattended.

Decorate with care. Decorating for the winter holidays is a fun activity, but with the introduction of new electrical wiring brings new concerns. Around 25% of Christmas tree fires start due to wiring, which can be prevented with proper precautions. Never use wiring that is frayed and avoid leaving lights plugged in if you are away or going to sleep. It is also wise to not plug too many things into a single outlet or power strip, as this can lead to sparks.

If you have damage due to a house fire, you can depend on us to help. Contact us 24 hours a day to report damage and receive a quick response from our certified restoration technicians. Get in touch today.

Returning to Normalcy After Your Business Is Impacted By a Disaster | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is your go-to in case a disaster occurs. Get in touch with us to learn more.

As you work to build your business into a successful one, there are many things to be concerned with along the way—however, many business owners fail to be concerned with the dangers of natural disasters and the impact they can have.

Many businesses struggle to reopen in the aftermath of an emergency, but through careful planning and preparation, you can reduce the likelihood of this impacting you.

Safety is always the main concern in regard to disasters, which is why it is wise to plan for keeping your staff safe during emergency scenarios before anything else. Once that is settled, you can begin to think through the recovery steps and what actions you should take in order to get your doors reopened as quickly as possible.

Planning Out the Recovery Steps if Your Business Is Hit By a Disaster

Check with your insurance and restoration companies first. What is considered covered damage to your business after a disaster varies based on your insurance policy, so getting in touch with them quickly is wise to determine the next steps. Afterward, contact your restoration company to get your damage taken care of quickly. In many cases, a commercial restoration company can also work with your insurance on your behalf.

Make customers aware of your plans for reopening. It is important to let your customers know what is happening in the wake of a disaster, whether it is through signage or social media. It is also smart to come up with creative ways that people can still show their support while you are closed, whether it be through online purchases, gift cards or some other avenue that can provide your business with income even while you work to recover.

See what disaster assistance you qualify for. After an event has been declared a disaster, many resources open up to business owners to apply for. The Small Business Administration offers commercial loans for this very reason, which can be used to cover multiple costs and are provided with flexible terms and repayment options to provide the maximum value.

If your business has been damaged due to a disaster, we’re here to help. Contact us at any hour to report your damage or to learn more about our commercial restoration services.

Water Loss may turn into Mold Remediation

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

One of the most important things about water damage is to treat it quickly. Whether you have sustained a busted pipe or something more serious, if the water damage reached your carpets and was not treated professionally, you still have damage happening right beneath your feet. Mold is growing in your carpets, and you need to take care of it. ASAP.

Mold can start within 24-48 hours of the time of loss in the right environment and conditions. Your home offers a constant food supply to the mold spores. Mold spores feed on wood, drywall, insulation, paper and anything it can get attached on. After a day or more, the mold starts colonizing, creating those big black stains we all know from photos (or from our home, if luck wasn't on our side).

Mold Is Dangerous, Even When Hidden

In most cases, mold will be discovered after it colonizes, and by then its growth is rapid. If you suspect you have mold, you should call a mold expert to check it out. Whether it's a water damage certified technician, a home inspector or an industrial hygienist. The mold usually grows where water damage hit, or where high humidity is found. If water leaked on your carpet - that's where the mold will start growing.

To protect your carpets from mold after they're flooded by water, you should follow the steps below. If it already happened, and you missed one of the steps, you should check your carpets for dark stains or moldy smell. You don't want mold growing under your carpets, in your floors and all around your home.

Steps to prevent mold after water damage:

1. Stop the water source - first thing first. Stop the water from flowing in and get them out of your home. If it's a leaky pipe or a broken appliance, close the water main. If it's the roof, try and see if you can get a roofing company to come for an emergency service and close the gap. Once you've stopped the water from coming, you need to get it out.
2. Extract the water - to prevent further damage and minimize long term effects, it's important to get the water out. If it's a small amount, you can blot it out or use a mop to absorb it (if on the floor and not carpets). If it's a large amount, get a water mitigation company like SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to help you with it.
3. Get it Dry – Fast! - If you have fans, or you know where you can rent drying fans - go for it. If you need some help with drying your home, we'd be glad to help as well. Call us and let us know what you need. It's important to have the property dried as fast as you can to avoid mold growth, as well as the water being absorbed in carpets, floors, rugs or other items. It's also recommended to use dehumidifiers to lower the humidity in the affected area, especially if you can't air it out properly.
4. Steam clean everything you can - carpets, rugs, flooring, furniture - if it had water get to it you want it professionally cleaned right now, before the mold gets comfortable and colonizes. Once the mold sets in, that item is probably lost and will need to be replaced.
5. Sanitize the affected area - if you hired a professional damage restoration company, they'll do it as part of the water mitigation process. If you didn't, and decided to solve the issue yourself, you should clean anything that met the water.

WE WILL MAKE SURE THE MOLD IS GONE

If you still feel like your clean-up wasn't enough, or you feel there is mold hiding somewhere - contact us at SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We'd be more than happy to pay you a visit and provide a professional opinion on the matter.

Remember, it's very dangerous to have mold in your home - mold can have very serious side effects on you and your health. Get your mold remediated as soon as you can.

Reduce the Chances That a House Fire Will Start | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience any property damage due to a fire, we are here to help. Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to learn more.

We can all realistically say we hope to never experience a house fire, but hoping one does not happen and doing what you can to prevent it are two different things. Fires can spread from a single flame in under a minute, but doing what you can to ensure one never starts can go a long way.

Thankfully, fire safety is something everyone can implement around the house through some planning and some prevention. Though you can never get rid of your chances of experiencing a house fire, you can significantly reduce them to keep your household safer.

How Can I Lessen the Chances of Experiencing a House Fire?

Check your smoke detectors. Having smoke detectors installed throughout your home is so important, as they will alert you if there is a fire in the home. Make sure yours are operational by checking them on a monthly basis, and replace them according to your manufacturer’s instructions to prevent any defects from occurring.

Create a fire escape plan. It is important for the safety of everyone in the household that you have a comprehensive fire escape plan that is regularly practiced. It should only take two minutes to exit the home, and every room should have two ways to get out so no one will be trapped in the house depending on where the fire starts.

Limit your fire risks. Whenever you practice good habits around the house, you are reducing the chances a fire can start. Simple things are extremely effective in house fire prevention—never leaving the room while cooking food, not leaving open flames unattended and never running wires under rugs or behind furniture are great tips to reduce your house fire chances.

Keep a fire extinguisher handy. While you should only use a fire extinguisher if it is completely safe to do so, it is good to have one handy in case the need arises. Any time you cook, grill or use an open flame, ensure you have an operational fire extinguisher nearby and are informed on how to use it.

If your home is damaged by a house fire, we are here to help. Our expert fire restoration technicians are here ²⁴⁄₇ to spring into action as soon as you call. Contact us at any hour to report your damage and receive a quick response.

Make a Water Damage Inspection Part of Regular Home Maintenance | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have any water damage to your home? Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South, we are your local water restoration experts.

There are few things that are worse for a home than the accumulation of water damage that goes untreated. This can lead to a number of issues and cause problems that are more than just cosmetic. Water damage can severely harm the structural elements of a home and cause a whole host of issues that are not readily apparent.

As part of your maintenance tasks around the house, doing a check for water damage on a regular basis is wise. Catching it early will lessen the damage you—and your homeowners’ insurance—have to deal with. If you find evidence of water damage, it is important to call in the restoration professionals right away.

Looking for Evidence of Water Damage Around the House

Inspect your walls and ceilings. If there is a leak in the ceiling or behind the walls, your drywall will often be the first place to show it. Spots of discoloration or peeling paint are often signs of a hidden leak festering, and can quickly be noticed with even a preliminary DIY inspection of the area.

Don’t forget to look down. Your floors can often show evidence of water damage early on, as well. As the water flows downward from where it is originating, it can work its way to the subfloor which can absorb a good bit of moisture. This will cause the subfloor to swell, leading to buckling and softening of the cosmetic floor above.

Inspect your roof. Your roof serves as your first line of defense against any weather-related issue, which is why keeping it operational is so important. Go out with a pair of binoculars after every storm to check for missing shingles, loose flashing or other signs of trouble. It is also smart to check in on your gutters when it rains so you can watch out for drainage issues.

Pay close attention to the basement. Basements were always considered to be a damp area in the past, but now we know how much damage can be done by letting basement moisture go unchecked. Water can seep in through the walls if drainage is poor, holding moisture in and leading to mold and mildew growth. Basement moisture is no joke, and should always be addressed by a professional.

If you have water damage anywhere in your home, we are here to help. You can contact us at any hour to learn more about our services or to report damages. Get in touch today to speak with a water damage restoration expert.

Plan for the Worst Case Scenario When It Comes to Storms | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is here to provide you with a rapid response. Contact us right away if you experience any storm damage.

Though it is often the case that a storm will threaten an area and then pass through without disruption, all it takes is one bad storm to cause severe damages to your home and property.

There is no way to predict when storms will cause damage, which is why we always recommend having a safety focused mindset, including preparing in advance for severe weather. If a severe storm does happen, knowing you have done all you can to prevent damage will provide valuable peace of mind.

Do All You Can to Prevent Storm Damage

Prepare your home as much as possible. There are many types of damage storms can cause, many of which are unpredictable—but some can be mitigated with a bit of preparation. Tree branches are some of the biggest culprits of storm damages, so simply maintaining your trees can go a long way, as can securing any loose objects in your yard that the wind could pick up. In case of a prolonged power outage, you may want to consider installing a house-wide generator as well.

Create a family communications plan. Hopefully, you and your family will all be safe at home when a storm begins to threaten the area. All the people and pets can proceed to your designated shelter room of the house and wait out the worst of it well out of harm’s way. However, if this is not the case, it is important that you have a plan regarding communications and reconvening when it is safe to do so, so everyone is accounted for at all times.

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked. Having a household emergency kit is always recommended as the first step for any disaster preparations. Not only will they come in handy while you shelter from a storm at home, but in case the power goes out, having access to food and water will be extremely valuable. Make sure you take the needs of each family member into account as you pack yours so that nothing is forgotten.

Consider getting a weather radio. Because of the prevalence of cellphones, many of us do not have any analog options for getting information. In case your phone dies and the power is out, we highly recommend having a backup information source such as a weather radio so you can still get emergency alerts and updates from local weather officials during a storm.

If your home is damaged by a storm, you can depend on us to take care of any damages. Contact us at any hour to report damage and receive a rapid response.

Picking Your Storm Restoration Company | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Choosing the right restoration company is crucial to getting things back to normal. Call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to set up an appointment.

It is never fun to experience a storm, but if you have damage done to your property, it can be even more alarming to endure. Data has shown that storms are happening more frequently and are causing more damage—that is why it is vital to have a plan in place in case you experience damage to your home so you can get the restoration process started right away.

Taking care of the damages as quickly as you can is recommended, as is choosing a restoration company that you can depend on. The company you choose will be in charge of handling all of your damages, so it is best to work with someone you can trust completely to ensure your home or business is fully restored.

Practicing Grill Safety to Lower Your Chances of a Fire | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South are the fire restoration experts. To learn more give us a call or contact us online.

Grilling is synonymous with summertime, both because it is an enjoyable reason to get outside and because grilled food always seems to turn out extra delicious. If you are like us and love to use your grill often, we recommend brushing up on your grill safety skills to avoid any harmful fires from popping up at your next cookout.

While this may seem like a minor concern, the U.S. Fire Administration’s research tells a different story, where nearly 6,000 fires are caused by accidents during grilling sessions annually. Making sure you know how to prevent this is key to grilling safely every time.

Brushing Up on Your Grill Safety Skills

Create a safe zone around your grill. Of course, convenience might be the factor that comes to mind when deciding where to place your grill, but do not forget about safety concerns as well. A sudden flare-up can ignite anything in its path, which is why a minimum of three feet of clearance is advised for wherever you set up your grill station.

Clean your grill grates often. Having food caked onto your grill grates is not just bad for your cooking experience—it is also a common cause of grill fires. Leaving grease and crumbs to accumulate on the grates can lead to a sudden fire if they become too hot, so cleaning your grill after each use is a good habit to get into.

Never leave the grill unattended. A grill flare-up can be sudden, and even if you are just walking away for a moment, it can lead to a fire that quickly turns out of hand. Never walk away from the grill without designating another person to watch it, and be sure you have an operational fire extinguisher nearby in case a flare-up does occur.

Inspect the grill regularly. Before you turn on the gas and get to cooking, inspect your grill carefully for any defects, wear or tear. Gas connection lines that run from your propane tank can fail with time, leading to a gas leak that can explode when a flame is applied. Instead of chancing it, a quick visual inspection will tell you everything you need to know.

If you have a grill fire that does damage to your home, we are here to help. You can call us any time, day or night, to have a quick response from our restoration experts.

Quick Tips for Summer Storm Safety | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

Have you been affected by a storm event? SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is available 24/7 and ready to assist you with any storm damage.

As the temperatures rise and the humidity builds, severe weather simply becomes a part of many summer days. While these storms can feel rather routine, it is also important that you always prioritize safety when they are in the forecast.

Though many storms pass through without incident, they all have the ability to produce lightning, wind and hail, so knowing your options for shelter and how to keep yourself as safe as possible is wise.

Staying Safe During Summer Storms

Know your options for shelter. Ideally, the best place to be in the event of severe weather is an interior room of your own home, with no outward-facing windows or doors. However, if you get caught on the road in the storm, staying in your car is the second-safest thing to do. Pull the car over and turn off the engine, and avoid touching anything metal inside the vehicle until the storm passes.

Practice electrical safety. If lightning strikes your home, it can travel through the electrical wires on its way to ground itself—and damage your electronics in the process. If you know a storm is coming, take the time to unplug everything in the home to avoid an electrical surge. Because storms happen suddenly, it is also wise to use surge protectors throughout the house in case you are unable to unplug everything before lightning becomes a threat.

Avoid direct contact with concrete. While a concrete structure might logically seem like the safest place to be during a storm, that is not always the case. Many types of concrete are reinforced with metal rods in their interior, meaning if lightning were to strike, the concrete itself could transfer the charge to anyone touching the surface. If possible, avoid direct contact with concrete any time a storm is nearby.

Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes. Storms often move through an area quickly, and once the skies have cleared again, you might be ready to resume your day. But going outside prematurely can still put you in danger as lightning can strike up to 25 miles away from the actual storm. You should wait at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder in order to ensure you will not be in harm’s way.

If your home sustains damage due to a storm, you can count on us to help. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our storm restoration process.

A Water Loss can Lead to Mold

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

One of the most important things about water damage is to treat it quickly. Whether you have sustained a busted pipe or something more serious, if the water damage reached your carpets and was not treated professionally, you still have damage happening right beneath your feet. Mold is growing in your carpets, and you need to take care of it. ASAP.

Mold can start within 24-48 hours of the time of loss in the right environment and conditions. Your home offers a constant food supply to the mold spores. Mold spores feed on wood, drywall, insulation, paper and anything it can get attached on. After a day or more, the mold starts colonizing, creating those big black stains we all know from photos (or from our home, if luck wasn't on our side).

Mold Is Dangerous, Even When Hidden

In most cases, mold will be discovered after it colonizes, and by then its growth is rapid. If you suspect you have mold, you should call a mold expert to check it out. Whether it's a water damage certified technician, a home inspector or an industrial hygienist. The mold usually grows where water damage hit, or where high humidity is found. If water leaked on your carpet - that's where the mold will start growing.

To protect your carpets from mold after they're flooded by water, you should follow the steps below. If it already happened, and you missed one of the steps, you should check your carpets for dark stains or moldy smell. You don't want mold growing under your carpets, in your floors and all around your home.

Steps to prevent mold after water damage:

1. Stop the water source - first thing first. Stop the water from flowing in and get them out of your home. If it's a leaky pipe or a broken appliance, close the water main. If it's the roof, try and see if you can get a roofing company to come for an emergency service and close the gap. Once you've stopped the water from coming, you need to get it out.
2. Extract the water - to prevent further damage and minimize long term effects, it's important to get the water out. If it's a small amount, you can blot it out or use a mop to absorb it (if on the floor and not carpets). If it's a large amount, get a water mitigation company like SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to help you with it.
3. Get it Dry – Fast! - If you have fans, or you know where you can rent drying fans - go for it. If you need some help with drying your home, we'd be glad to help as well. Call us and let us know what you need. It's important to have the property dried as fast as you can to avoid mold growth, as well as the water being absorbed in carpets, floors, rugs or other items. It's also recommended to use dehumidifiers to lower the humidity in the affected area, especially if you can't air it out properly.
4. Steam clean everything you can - carpets, rugs, flooring, furniture - if it had water get to it you want it professionally cleaned right now, before the mold gets comfortable and colonizes. Once the mold sets in, that item is probably lost and will need to be replaced.
5. Sanitize the affected area - if you hired a professional damage restoration company, they'll do it as part of the water mitigation process. If you didn't, and decided to solve the issue yourself, you should clean anything that met the water.

WE WILL MAKE SURE THE MOLD IS GONE

If you still feel like your clean-up wasn't enough, or you feel there is mold hiding somewhere - contact us at SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We'd be more than happy to pay you a visit and provide a professional opinion on the matter.

Remember, it's very dangerous to have mold in your home - mold can have very serious side effects on you and your health. Get your mold remediated as soon as you can.

Water Restoration in Your Home

6/14/2020 (Permalink)

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs to an already anxiety provoking situation. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South delivers the help you need swiftly, even when a local disaster is widespread as we can call upon a network of over 1,650 franchises nationwide to respond if the need is great.   Storm damage can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind, and flooding repair fulfilling your restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues you face. Choosing our company puts in motion a vast support system, but our local ownership means you will receive a personalized approach to your particular situation, efficiently returning your home back to its pre-storm condition just “Like it never even happened.”   Placing your trust in SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South for your storm damage needs will reap you benefits that less qualified companies simply cannot deliver. We use state of the art equipment to clean, repair, and restore your home and in the process, we also restore your and your family’s peace of mind. Our technicians are highly trained and qualified, current in Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) for any procedure needed to bring your home back to the comfortable and comforting refuge you deserve. We also work closely with your insurance company, ensuring that all the work necessary is approved and compensated according to the terms of your policy. Our high standards and relentless drive to do the job on time while meeting local specifications means you and your family will quickly return to the quiet enjoyment of your house and neighborhood. We are not satisfied until you are happily back in your restored dwelling.   Once you make sure that your family is safe after a major storm, your first call should be to SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South. Dial 770-448-5782  24/7 and begin the road to recovery by scheduling an inspection with our storm damage experts.

Steps to Take After a House Fire | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration needs.

Having a house fire strike your home is a fearful and overwhelming life experience. Whether it was extinguished immediately or continued on to become severe, the damage caused by a house fire can be far-reaching and difficult to deal with.

In order to help you recover, we have included some things to remember in order to pick up the pieces from a house fire and be able to continue on with life.

Picking Up the Pieces Following a House Fire

Prepare yourself for what to expect. Though many of us are familiar with fire damage in the abstract, seeing it firsthand in a way that impacts your own life is a different experience altogether. Prepare yourself before you enter your home, and remember that fire damage can often impact areas that were not even near the flames due to the way that smoke and soot can travel.

Wait to enter your home. While springing into action is a common reaction following a house fire, it is important that you are not doing anything that could put you in harm’s way. Fires can lead to structural issues for a home, and entering too early could put you at risk. Be sure to check with officials to make sure it is completely safe before you attempt to go back into the home.

Contact your insurance company. Filing a fire insurance claim is different with every provider, so getting in touch with yours to learn more about the process will help you make sure you follow the right protocols and get the most out of your claim.

Document the damages. Creating an inventory list and taking plenty of photos is a great way to stay organized and not accidentally leave something out. Go room by room to document the damages to your belongings and structures so you have clear records both for your benefit and to ease the difficulties of filing an insurance claim.

Contact your restoration company. The aftermath of a fire can be emotionally taxing to deal with, which is why we always recommend working with a reputable, professional restoration company to make things easier on your family. A good restoration crew will give you immeasurable peace of mind so you can worry less about the recovery process and focus more on healing.

If your home is damaged in a house fire, you can count on us to help you. Get in touch at any hour for a quick response.

Equipped to handle large commercial losses

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

When you're a business owner and you run into an unexpected commercial disaster, you should call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest at 770-448-5782. We can immediately dispatch technicians to come assess any situation that is stopping your business from operating. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South will do everything in our power to help you and your business when trouble arises. 

Tips until SERVPRO arrives:

• Shut off the water source, if identified.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• DO NOT use regular vacuum to remove water
• Locate insurance information
• When we arrive we will do a very thorough dry out and complete it in a timely manner. We practice the science of drying...and we specialize in restoring your property. We are a "One Stop Shop" – Which means we are a company that can dry out your property, take care of your contents, and rebuild if necessary. Call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest at 770-448-5782, we are available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your commercial needs.

Are you prepared for severe weather damages?

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Are you ready for Severe Weather?

Severe weather is unpredictable and SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South wants you to be safe no matter the season! Below are some severe weather readiness tips to help guide you, no matter what type of disaster you may encounter.

Weather Radios: Weather radios are the most reliable way to receive notifications of severe weather in your area. Although cellular phones, weather apps, social media as well as wireless emergency alerts (WEA’s) are what the majority of us depend on to keep informed, the truth is those devices can have their limitations during severe weather and can be interrupted. Mobile devices rely on towers and those towers can be damaged and cease to function during severe weather. A weather radio, WITH CHARGED BATTERIES, is the most reliable way to be informed of severe weather. Be sure to properly program your weather radio so you only receive the alerts you want for the counties you want.

Emergency Supply Kit: Having an emergency kit can be a life saver. Most emergency management agencies recommend supplies for up to three days. The following is a list you can use as a guideline:

Water – 1 gallon per person per day

Food – non-perishable

Manual can opener

Battery operated radio, preferably a weather radio

Flashlight

Extra batteries for radio and flashlight

First Aid kit

Whistle to signal help

Clothing, blankets

Dust mask 

Plastic sheeting, garbage bags, and duct tape

Wrench or other tools to shut off utilities

Hygiene items

Important documents. (Copy of insurance policy, bank account info, identification, etc.)

Fire extinguisher

Matches in waterproof case

Cash

Make family plan: Make sure all members in the household are aware where they are to go in the event of severe weather. If for some reason the family is separated in the event of a severe storm, have a meeting place established as to aid in finding each other amidst devastation.

Call SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South 770-448-5782. We are here to help!

Severe Wind Damage and Flooding

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricane damage sometimes includes severe wind damage. Roof damage in this situation may range from a missing roof, to harsh winds and rains shearing away asphalt tiles. Roof repair of obvious defects usually ensues in the wake of hurricane damage and storm remediation. Correcting roof damage may challenge homeowners after a disaster, since a roof leak may not appear obvious. How can a roof leak or roof damage escape easy detection in this situation? Wind damage may loosen flashing, eventually causing another roof leak sometimes weeks after a storm. Even a subtle roof leak of this nature can produce moist, moldy conditions inside the home. Obtaining fast roof repair may prevent long term interior damage. A wind damage home restoration expert may assist clients in receiving comprehensive roof assessments and roof repair services when hurricane damage afflicts an area. Their expertise helps property owners address storm damage and roof damage more effectively.

Flooding and recovery flood water frequently poses a risk in coastal areas. Yet heavy rains may cause river flooding miles inland also. If the surrounding terrain cannot absorb ground water, runoff contributes to flood water. Even residents of mountainous areas sometimes sustain varying degrees of flood damage if frozen pipes rupture. Flood pump failures contribute to basement flooding and contaminated ground water in some locations, too. Flooding may disrupt municipal water systems. Experts need to assess ground water and evaluate the condition of pipes following flood damage. By relying upon a trained specialist, you will usually obtain faster storm remediation. These experts may suggest ways to help mitigate flood water damage in the future, for instance, by requesting backup flood pump installation.

Call SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 for any of your storm concerns.

Tips to Improve Your Safety in Advance of Severe Weather | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South will respond quickly to assist in any repairs.

Because of how regularly severe storms and weather events can occur during the warmer seasons of the year, every single storm should be revered as a possible threat. Every storm has the potential to cause significant damage and pose a serious threat to unprotected people, so before one strikes, make sure you are doing what you can to boost your household safety efforts just in case.

Being aware of what watches and warnings mean, having ample emergency supplies stored and having multiple ways to tune into emergency broadcasts will help you be certain that you are as prepared as possible.

Be Aware of What Watches and Warnings Mean

When severe weather is on the way, local officials will generally issue watches and warnings to keep the public informed about the current conditions, so it is important to know what they mean. A storm watch is issued if conditions are particularly favorable for a storm to develop, but one has yet to occur in the area. A storm warning is more serious, as it means storms have been spotted on the ground and are a threat to the area. During a storm watch, you can simply stay alert, but during a storm warning, you should take cover immediately

Have Ample Emergency Supplies Stored

If a storm is nearby, it is important to seek shelter and stay put until the threat passes—which is why having everything you need at home is so highly recommended. Be sure you have enough food and water packed for everyone in your family in case utilities go out, as well as flashlights and extra batteries so you have a light source. You should also have a “safe zone” in the home—somewhere you can go that is sheltered from external walls as much as possible where you can wait out the worst of the storm.

Have Multiple Ways to Tune Into Emergency Broadcasts

While most of us rely on our smartphones to get information about the weather, this method can have some drawbacks and is not reliable during severe weather. Because cell reception can be spotty during severe storms and electricity is often unreliable, make sure you have multiple ways to get alerts that do not depend on the traditional power grid. A non-electric weather radio powered by batteries or manually is often a good solution for this.

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, we are here for you. You can contact us ²⁴⁄₇ to get a quick response to your home’s damages.

Damage to Commercial Property

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let water damage like this slow you or your business down, contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett 24/7 to help get your commercial property back in order.

Flooding and water damage events in Georgia commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and immediate response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work as diligently as possible for each situation and isolate the affected area. In many situations, normal operations can continue in a temporary work space while we restore your commercial property.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents  Challenges

SERVPRO of Gwinnett South's professional technicians are trained to be aware of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your financial constraints. We understand that time spent cleaning up is time of lost revenue and productivity. So if you find yourself in an emergency situation at your location of business, give us a call so we can get there fast and help you and your business in a desperate time of need.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South 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. Call us when your commercial property experiences damage from water, flooding, or fire!

Fire Safety During Summer

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Summer is a glorious season full of vacations, cookouts and firework shows, but along with all the festivities are plenty of visits to emergency rooms—especially in July. Each year around 230 people are injured badly enough to require medical treatments after firework-related incidents, according to the U.S consumer Product Safety Commission. In addition to causing injury, fireworks are responsible for thousands of house fires each year with countless numbers of dollars in property damage.

There is nothing like firing up the grill during the summer months! Did you know, July is the peak month for grill fires? A backyard barbecue can become dangerous quickly if proper safety precautions aren’t considered. As your local SERVPRO professional, we want you to have an enjoyable and safe summer. Consider the following tips to help ensure your summer celebrations are disaster free!

-Grills should only be used outdoors.

-The grill should be placed far from the home, deck railings, garages and out from under eaves and over hanging branches.

-Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grill and in trays below the grill.

-Never leave your grill unattended.

- When using a charcoal grill, let the coal completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

-If you are using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eye-wear.

-Do not to try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire. Children should never pick up fireworks that may be left over as they may still be active.

-The Safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained professionals.

Four Frequent Commercial Loss Causes Business Owners Should be Aware of

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

When you are the owner of a business, it is easy to picture water damages as a massive storm wiping out power, flooding offices, or shutting down your business for long periods of time. While this sometimes may be the case, severe storms are not the only causes of water damage and floods. The following are common causes of water damage in commercial properties.

1. Malfunctioning Sprinkler Systems
   Some older commercial buildings, still to this day, have faulty sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While these sprinklers may be beneficial during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are outdated or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged Appliances and Equipment
   Although, it is more often seen in restaurants, this cause of commercial flood damage can also happen in any business that has equipment and appliances that make use of water. If your appliances were to fail, especially after business operating hours, you may come back to a water emergency at your place of business.

3. Broken Pipes and Plumbing
   Frequently seen in residential properties, but it could also happen in a workplace facility. If the plumbing system at your commercial space fails, you could have a serious water damage loss on your hands.

4. Backed Up Sewer Lines
   There are very real, potential dangers that come along with the possibility of contaminated Black Water if your sewer line in your commercial building were to back up or become damaged. Black Water could put your health at risk, ruin products, and maybe even contaminate the furnishings in your office. Backed up sewer lines is a commercial water loss that catches a lot of business owners by surprise.

While many other issues can cause a commercial loss, we see these frequently. Our technicians are well trained in the commercial loss area. So, if your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South can help you and your business get back up to production in no time. Call us anytime 24/7 at 770-448-5782 for fast help.

Commercial Water Damage

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage can be caused by an amount of different issues. Anywhere from rainstorms, broken pipes, or humidity to faulty appliances or slow leaks. Any of these incidents can lead to microbial or bacterial growth if it is not cleaned up properly. A full-service property restoration company like us, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South can help your business recover from water damage, no matter how big or how small the loss may be. We understand that the damage needs to be mitigated as quickly as possible to minimize the downtime your business may experience, and here at SERVPRO, we have 24-hour emergency response, every day of the year in Gwinnett County and the surrounding areas. Our technicians will work alongside utility companies and commercial plumbers to make sure your building is secure against any secondary water damages or loss. If you experience a loss that is considered a Category 3, i.e. sewage water, our professionals, who are IICRC-certified, will decontaminate your property working under specific standards. Our techs can work alongside certified environmental hygienists to give testing and clearances so you and your staff can have a peace of mind. Part of this process includes our technicians using special treatments to avoid mold growing in your building. In cases of long-term moisture where mold is already found, our certified mold remediation specialists will clean and get rid of as much mold growth as is possible.  Our team has the equipment and the staffing to take care of a commercial water loss of any size. We can help you recover from industrial plumbing failure and major floods to any other loss your commercial building might face If you’ve experienced a commercial water loss, speak with us at our franchise, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South by dialing 770-448-5782 for a prompt 24/7 response.

Tips after a house fire

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

1. Ask whether it is safe to come into the home. Do not attempt to enter the structure if the fire authorities deem it unsafe. They may establish a safety zone, but never assume a room is safe.
2. Know who to call.

-Contact family members and let them know you are safe and unharmed.

-Contact your insurance agent. They will be able to talk you through the necessary steps, including proper documentation and emergency lodging and living expenses (keep all of your receipts!) The insurance company may assist in securing a company to help with clean up options.

-You may request a fire mitigation company at this time for contents cleaning, structure cleaning, restoration etc. Contact SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782.

-Another call may be to your landlord if applicable, and to your local American Red Cross. Our company is the preferred restoration partner to The American Red Cross.

3. Secure the property to prevent possible looting. SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South is available to assist with securing property/ Board Ups.
4. If water hoses were used to exterminate the fire, drying your home is critical. It is best to call the professionals at SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South to do water/ fire cleanups. Water can lead to mold damage if not dried properly. Our company is an approved restoration contractor for many major insurance carriers and adheres to the highest standards in the restoration industry.
5. Seek counseling if needed. Children and adults can feel a traumatic sense of loss and may need help to avoid a lasting sense of sadness and disorientation after a house fire. Do not be afraid to reach out for help. A house fire is a traumatic event and individuals need to be treated with respect and compassion by those close to the process of rebuilding.

Increasing Numbers of House Fires

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

 According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. During the past few months, we have noticed an increase in home fires. Most likely due to the number of  restaurants being closed during the current pandemic and families having to cook at home more often than usual. If you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your routine dinner plans could become hazardous very quickly.  The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. 

Tips for avoiding kitchen fires:

• Be alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stove-top.

• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.

• If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.

• Keep anything that can catch fire – oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towel or curtains – away from stove-top.

If a fire occurs while you are cooking, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.

• Keep a lid nearby when you are cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stove-top. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

• If you try to fight the fire, be sure anyone else in the home is getting out and that you have a clear way out.

• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

• If the fire is out of control, just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.

• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South and their professional team are always here to help. Call us today at (770)448-5782

Preventative Cleaning

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South 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 (CDC). 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, call the experts today – SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782.

Being Ready, Should disaster strike

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO®? Being Ready Should Disaster Strike

Latest research indicates that as many as 50% of businesses close following a disaster. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them have a preparedness plan in place. Pre- planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be. 

Having a "SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile" for your business helps by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. 

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it's a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, "Are you Ready for whatever happens?"

Call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 to schedule a free Emergency READY Plan.  We are here to help.

Personal Protective Equipment

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO®?

PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment' 

Our technicians use Personal Protective Equipment or PPE on jobs such as:

• Mold remediation | Biohazard situations | Preventative cleaning |

It is an OSHA regulation for our technicians to wear PPE in certain situations. Don't be scared if you see them in the suits, it's for their safety! 

The primary function of PPE is to "minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses." ¹ 

Some hazards our teams may come in contact with include:

• Chemicals | Biohazardous materials | Mold & mold spores | Mechanical, electrical & physical hazards | Other fumes 

There are many types of PPE, but when it comes to SERVPRO®, our teams can mostly be seen wearing: 

Eye protection | Foot & leg protection (booties) | Hand & arm protection | Other face protection | 

• Eye protection / face protection 

You may see our techs wearing goggles or a full face respirator. This is protecting them from inhaling any airborne mold, dust, chemicals, and other fumes. 

• Hand & arm protection / gloves 

Gloves protect their skin from any contact with mold, irritating cleaning solutions, chemicals, biological contaminants, and other hazards. 

• Foot & leg protection / protective clothing 

Our techs often wear full body suits that include the protective booties at the bottom that cover their shoes, so they don't track any contaminants throughout the property or bring any back to the office or back home with them! 

If your Gwinnett area home or business requires mold, water, sewage, biohazardous or fire cleanup or remediation, give SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South a call at 770-448-5782.  We're here 24/7! 

The 6 Steps to Water Restoration SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Water loss in home.

There is nothing that can prepare you for the emotional impact of water damage, but you should act fast when it does happen.

You can call us 24 hours a day to set the restoration process in motion so you can recover as quickly as possible from water damage. Here’s what the process is like:

6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration

1. Initial Emergency Contact
There is no typical time for water damage to occur, which is why we are available 24 hours a day to answer your call for restoration. Over the phone, we will obtain pertinent details about your situation and draft a plan to ensure you receive the equipment and staff you need.

2. Inspection and Damage Assessment
Once we arrive at the scene, we will check immediately for safety hazards to ensure you are not in harm’s way, and stop any excess water flow if applicable. Then we will do a complete damage assessment and create a plan for restoration custom to your situation.

3. Moisture Extraction
Removing moisture from the impacted area is one of the highest priorities next to safety, which is why we move on to this step as quickly as possible. We have the equipment to remove hundreds of gallons of water at a time to ensure we can handle water damage of any size.

4. Dehumidifying and Drying
After removing the excess moisture from the area, we will start dehumidifying the air and drying out belongings and surfaces that have absorbed moisture. This is important because inadequate moisture removal can lead to strong odors and persistent mold and mildew growth on objects.

5. Cleaning Belongings
Items that have been impacted by water damage can be contaminated even if they have not absorbed water, which is why we clean everything that may have been infected. We practice the highest standards of sanitization and deodorization so you have no lingering reminders of the damages.

6. Restoration and Repair
You can not only count on us for moisture removal, but you can depend on us for a complete restoration process, including any structural or cosmetic repairs required. From patching drywall to installing new floor treatments, we can fully restore your home or office to how it was before the damage.

If your home has been water-damaged, you can count on us to help. Call us ²⁴⁄₇ to get the process started.

Why SERVPRO?

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

Home owners and business owners rely on SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South to restore damaged property for many reasons. Listed below are some of the most important:

1. SERVPRO® is Trained & Qualified

Our crew members have the best training through the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) in water, fire, and mold damage restoration.   In addition to IICRC SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South has certifications from Occupational Safety and Environmental Education, Inc., The Environmental Protective Division of the State of Georgia and The Environmental Institute for Asbestos Abatement.

2. We Respond Promptly 

 You can reach SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. Our phones are answered by our trained-on call managers for the week outside business hours. This means that you will always speak to someone who is able to dispatch crews to assist you.  We’re faster to any size disaster.

3. We Understand

SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South understands the situation and how you feel when it comes to a loss. We’re on the same page with you when it comes to keeping the cost down, remediating the damage and making your home or business look and feel “Like it never even happened”.

4. Restore vs Replace Philosophy 

To someone who is untrained when it comes to a water or fire damage, it would make sense to replace everything. The drying and cleaning methods that we use allow us to save a lot rather than replacing it. The benefit of restoring is being cost effective, saving time, and giving the customer peace of mind.

 SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South is always here to help whenever you need it. If you discover water coming through the ceiling of your home at 4 AM, or your warehouse is full of smoke, call us at 770-448-5782.  You will be speaking to a decision maker who is able to dispatch a crew and help you immediately.

Contents in the home after a fire

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Your home contains many of your most valuable possessions and items you love the most. Your business is your livelihood. The team at SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South understands just how trying, disruptive, and traumatic major losses such as a fire can be.

As part of our fire restoration service, we don't just pay attention to the structure; we'll also help take care of the contents of your home or business, as well. Some of our contents services include:

Inventory – One of the first priorities in fire restoration is to complete an accurate inventory to help ensure you can properly account for all of your belongings. Your SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South technician can provide a detailed room-by-room inventory of contents, including digital photographs, suitable for filing insurance claims forms and relieving you of this often stressful and time-consuming process.

Move Outs – When the structure has suffered extensive damage, the cleanup and restoration process may need to be facilitated by relocating the contents for cleaning, deodorization, and storage while structural repairs are being completed. Our supervised moving crew can carefully pack and move the entire contents of your home or office.

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 of Gwinnett County South technicians begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate; we provide wet or dry cleaning methods. Additionally, all of the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to as near as preloss condition as possible; this includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, and much more.

When a fire takes control of your life, we help you take back control. Call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South for help: (770)448-5782.

Questions for Your Restoration Company | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

A quick response from SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South ensures your Clean-up and Restoration needs are professionally completed.

Do you have a plan for what to do if damage were to occur to your home? Discovering damage can be a scary thing, so it is wise for homeowners to have a plan in place before this occurs. Choosing an experienced and reputable restoration company is the best way to ensure you have a smooth restoration process and your home is restored to its pre-damage condition.

During the planning stages, it is important to choose a company that is well-rounded and can tackle many types of damages. This will ensure you are prepared regardless of the issue that arises, and they can handle the more nuanced aspects of damage that can occur—for example, fire leading to hazardous air quality or water damage causing damage to a home’s structural elements. This will ensure you are not stuck with a company that can only do half the job, and will instead make sure your home is completely restored.

<h3to-look-for-in-a-restoration-company">What to Look for in a Restoration Company

Knowing what to expect from the restoration company you choose can make a big difference in the period after the damage that is fraught with emotion. Asking key questions of your restoration company will ensure you make the right decision when the time comes.

Do You Have Flexible Hours?

No one can predict when a disaster will occur, which is why choosing a company that does not stick to a strict set of business hours is so valuable. We have a ²⁴⁄₇ emergency line so we are able to have our technicians respond regardless of the hour in order to start your restoration fast.

How Are Your Staff Members Trained?

Performing restoration is a highly skilled job, which is why our technicians are highly trained. We base all of our education on IICRC guidelines in order to have our staff be knowledgeable in the latest developments in restoration. This ensures they are able to tackle any damage with confidence and expertise.

Can You Handle Large Disasters?

Handling single-home damage is one thing, but many companies might not be equipped to handle events that occur on a larger scale. With a network of 1,700 franchises across the country, we have a vast network to call upon should the situation necessitate it. This guarantees that we can handle localized damage with the same level of care as we can a natural disaster.

If you have experienced storm damage, we are always here to help! Call our restoration experts ²⁴⁄₇ so we can address your damages quickly.

Reducing Risks for Small Business Owners | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

Being prepared is a smart decision!

Understanding your risks as a business owner is an important part of keeping your investment protected. Being prepared for all sorts of risks is a wise move, but unfortunately, many business owners are not adequately prepared for natural disasters.

Natural disasters are becoming a more frequent occurrence throughout the country, and while certain areas might be more vulnerable than others, one can happen at any time in any part of the world. That is why it is important for business owners to know what they will do when a disaster becomes imminent as well as how to handle the lingering effects of one in order to restore your business and minimize the interruption in operations.

We are cleaning experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett Southeast and Southwest is here to help!

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, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast and Southwest, 770-448-5782

How to Prepare Your Business for Flooding | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

A flood can happened when you least expect it. If your business experiences any water damage, contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South. We will get yo

Preparing for a flood is one of the smartest things that a business owner can do, even if they are not in an area typically prone to flooding. Statistically, 90% of natural disasters involve flooding and commonly impact areas that are not usual flooding targets.

Increasing your emergency preparedness by planning for a flood is a great idea not only for the safety of yourself and your staff but also for the continuity of your business. By planning in advance and preserving documentation, you can be more prepared to reopen after the flooding passes.

<h3to-prepare">How to Prepare

It is not uncommon for business owners to not know where to start on flood preparations, but thankfully there are many resources out there. Some things to do include:

• Use the FEMA Flood Map and locate your building in order to determine any geographical risks you might face.
• Place copies of important documents in a secure location you will be able to access following a flood.
• Educate employees on your official flooding action procedures, which will ensure everyone knows what their role is in a flood scenario.
• Identify evacuation routes from various locations around the building and host regular drills.
• Consider the idea of adding flood insurance to your business policy.
• Store non-perishable food and water in case you face wait times for emergency personnel to arrive.
• Raise up any valuable electronics out of the water’s path.

<h3to-decide-what-documents-to-copy">How to Decide What Documents to Copy

When it comes to copying documents, it is better to have anything you think you might need instead of failing to remember something. Some important things to include are:

• An outline of your business continuity tasks
• Means of contact for any staff members and third-party services you may need to contact
• Your insurance agent’s contact information
• Detailed steps for recovering computer files that have been backed up
• Financial documents such as bank account information

If your business has experienced a flood, we are always here to help. Call us ²⁴⁄₇ to get our team of professionals to your business quickly so you can get back on track.

How to Make Sure Your Business Is Prepared for Disasters | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Fires started from lighting storms.

If you are a business owner, or run a business, there are many, many facets of the business that must be addressed. One of those is emergency preparedness, which is probably the most important factor to think about.

Even though you may have a plan in place, it will not stop all disasters, but it can still give your business a leg up on the safety side. This will allow you to at least make sure that your employees know what to do if a disaster or emergency situation should occur.

Making a Plan

If you have not taken the time to sit down and work out an emergency preparedness plan for various disaster situations, please make that one of your top priorities!

There are numerous emergencies your business should have a preparedness plan in place for, including:

• Fire
• Severe weather, including thunderstorms and winter storms
• Other natural hazards like floods, hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes
• Human-caused hazards, including accidents or acts of violence
• Technology-related issues like power outages and equipment failure

A disaster is a disaster whether it’s man-made or caused by nature. If there is no emergency plan for your business, things could get even more stressful quickly.

You should make sure that safety training and familiarization of emergency preparedness plans are included in the company onboarding process, team-building activities and continuing education opportunities.

By helping employees familiarize themselves with proper safety protocol and emergency procedures, you’re not only giving them the tools to protect themselves, but you are also setting them up to help protect guests/visitors and the business itself.

Where to Begin

When beginning to set up an emergency plan for your business, first evaluate what disasters could most likely occur—also include those that are a longshot but could still happen. After all, it’s better to prepare for all the worst-case scenarios and not be caught off guard.

There are plenty of online resources to help guide you through this process, including Ready.gov, the American Red Cross, FEMA and the CDC.

Conducting a business impact analysis (BIA) can help predict the potential effect a disaster may have on your business. This would include lost or delayed sales and income, increased expenses from repairs, and delayed implementation of business plans. Don’t forget to make sure a crisis communications plan is in place, too.

After an emergency preparedness plan has been developed, be sure to review and practice it with your employees. Reviewing and rehearsing various scenarios can help ensure the process remains fresh in their minds and can help employees feel more empowered.

Disaster can strike when you least expect it, but by being prepared and having a plan in place, your business will be better suited to handle whatever Mother Nature has in store. If the worst should happen and your business is damaged, know that SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

We Are Here to Help After Storms Impact the Area | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Damage caused by a fast moving storm.

The commonality of severe storms can make it easy to forget their severity, but it is wise for homeowners to be aware of the damage they can cause. In 2018, over $2 billion in damages were filed with homeowners’ insurance companies—meaning a recovery plan is vital.

Being aware of your options for storm damage restoration is a wise thing to do in advance, so you know who to call the moment damage strikes. Because we are here 24 hours a day, we can help you whenever you need us so you can have your restoration completed faster.

How Hidden Water Leaks Can Surface From Appliances | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

A leaky appliance can lead to frustration.

Water damage is an increasingly common problem, but did you know that one of the most common causes of water leaks comes from right inside the home?

Appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines utilize large volumes of water each day, leading to water damage that often remains hidden for a while before homeowners are ever made aware. Fortunately, we’ve got the guide to help you check and prevent leaks from getting out of hand.

SERVPRO® of Gwinnett Co. South Uses Team Approach to Help Clients

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Monday through Friday at 8:15am the entire staff of SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South begins with a meeting in front of our Work In Progress board.  This WIP board, as it is called, shows our Work in Progress and lets everyone assess and review what work is scheduled for the day and for the week ahead.  This daily meeting is good example of the team approach SERVPRO® takes in providing quality work to our customers.  The corporate theme of “One Team” makes sure that all team members, from the front office to the crew of technicians, know that they each have to play a role in getting the job done.  SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South is locally known for its prompt and professional service.

We offer full-service restoration, meaning we can handle your loss through the emergency service response, mitigation of damage and complete reconstruction.  When clients learn that we can do all stages of the disaster recovery work they are relieved knowing that they will not have to deal with a multitude of people and companies to get the job done.

Our business is one that no one hopes to need, but our hope is that we can assist both homeowners and businesses to be prepared and to know who to call if a disaster strikes.

Finding Your Trusted Restoration Company | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Having a team on your side after a disaster can help relieve stress. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is here to help when a fire strikes.

Fire preparedness is a habit you should be in at all times of the year, but as winter approaches, it is a time to be especially vigilant. House fires occur most often in the winter months, according to the Red Cross.

Now is a great time to review and rehearse your household’s fire escape plan, and you also may want to consider researching restoration companies. If you suffer a home fire, knowing who you can call once the flames are extinguished can help your repairs happen more quickly so your home can be back to its condition before the fire occurred.

<h3home-fire-restoration-process">Our Home Fire Restoration Process

When doing a restoration job after a home fire, we understand the importance of making sure it is done correctly. There are several aspects that must be considered, including damage to structures, belongings and even the air supply of your home. By taking all this into consideration, we are able to utilize the following methods to provide you with restoration:

Structural Cleaning

Restoring the structural elements of a home consists of cleaning and repairing any floors, drywall portions or other sections that have been impacted. We will first perform tests to determine how your damage is spread through the home and what work should be done, then our technicians will begin taking action to remove the soot, smoke and flames from these items.

Content Cleaning

In most cases of damage to your belongings, it is more cost-effective to have them restored rather than to replace them. We use advanced cleaning tools with both wet and dry cleaning methodology in order to restore the items we are able to in your home. We can typically handle everything from upholstery to wood furniture to electronics, making sure you can keep the majority of the items you love.

Deodorization Services

While the damage to structures and contents is visible, there is also air quality damage that fires can cause. Not only can smoke odors linger for a long time throughout the home, but the airborne soot particles left behind can lead to serious health issues later on. We make use of air scrubbers and other tools to deodorize and purify the air, ensuring all smoke smells and hazardous soot particles get removed.

If you’ve been affected by a fire, reach out to us right away! We are here ²⁴⁄₇ to help you recover.

Water Damage Prevention | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage throughout the kitchen floor.

Many homeowners know about the dangers of fires or thunderstorms, but have you considered that flooding could also be a hazard? It is reported that 90% of natural disasters include some form of flooding, making it crucial for homeowners to be informed.

Steps to take after the fire | SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

The feeling of loss felt after a fire can be overwhelming.

1. Ask whether it is safe to enter the home. Do not enter if the fire authorities deem it unsafe. They may establish a safety zone, but never assume a room is safe, until it has been cleared to enter.
2. Know who to call.
1. Contact family members and let them know you are safe and unharmed.
2. Contact your insurance agent. They will be able to talk you through the necessary steps, including proper documentation and emergency lodging and living expenses (keep all of your receipts!) The insurance company may assist in securing a company to help with clean up options.
3. You may request a fire mitigation company at this time for contents cleaning, structure cleaning, restoration etc. Contact SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782.
4. Another call may be to your landlord if applicable, and to your local American Red Cross. Our company is the preferred restoration partner to The American Red Cross.
3. Secure the property to prevent possible looting. SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South is available to assist with securing property/ Board Ups.
4. If water hoses were used to exterminate the fire, drying your home is critical. It is best to call the professionals at SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South to do water/ fire cleanups. Water can lead to mold damage if not dried properly. Our company is an approved restoration contractor for many major insurance carriers and adheres to the highest standards in the restoration industry.
5. Seek counseling if needed. Children and adults can feel a traumatic sense of loss and may need help to avoid a lasting sense of sadness and disorientation after a house fire. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. A house fire is a traumatic event and individuals need to be treated with respect and compassion by those close to the process of rebuilding.

Places to Be on Guard for Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen as a result of severe weather, but it can also happens for a variety of other reasons. Weather-related causes are the most familiar, but certainly are not the only cause homeowners should be concerned with.

Water damage is both a complicated and costly endeavor. Many homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover water damage, and when they do, the average claim totals nearly $7,000. Knowing the places to be on guard for water damage is wise for homeowners and can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.

What to Know About Lightning and Thunderstorms | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

Storm and lighting damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. When a storm hits your home, you need the company with experience

The damage from thunderstorms is not always limited to high winds and flooding. Because of the nature of thunderstorms, even those without rain have the potential for lightning strikes, which can be dangerous or deadly.

Storms always carry an electrical charge, meaning there is always a chance they will produce lightning. Lightning bolts are dangerous to humans and objects in their path, as a lightning bolt can reach 500,000 degrees. Knowing the basics of lightning and the hazards it can cause is key to staying safe.

Common Causes of House Fires | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

A fire to this home quickly grows out of control.

It is highly advisable for homeowners to have working smoke alarms in every room of the house, but there are additional ways to be vigilant about fire prevention.

A variety of events can cause house fires, from the most obvious fire hazard to the least conspicuous household supply. It is important to know the risks so you can prevent them and keep your home safe from fires.

Faulty Hot Water Heater | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

A leaking water heater is no fun!

Water can damage your home in many ways. Most of the time it's an external threat, but sometimes a leak from inside can cause just as much, or even more, damage.  When a leak develops, the water might not come rushing out at once. Most of the time it's a slow leak that may go unnoticed for days.

If the water heater is located on an upper floor, the damage will be even more extensive, since water always flows downhill. The leaking water heater on a second floor can cause extensive damage to both walls and flooring as the water seeks the lowest spot in the building or home.

Fortunately, there are steps people can take to minimize the risk of a water heater causing damage to their home or business.  The first thing people need to do is regularly inspect the water heater and the pipes around the unit for any signs of leakage, moisture, mold, mineral buildup and corrosion.  Putting in an inexpensive drip pan below the water heater that drains to the outside of the property can help prevent thousands of dollars in water damage in many cases.

Age is also a big factor. Many water heater manufacturers estimate the lifespan of these appliances to be 8 to 12 years, so replacing a unit when it is nearing this age can be a good insurance policy against unwanted damage.

What to look for:

• Water doesn't get as hot as it used to.
• There's rust in water coming from your faucets or on your clothes.
• Your hot water heater makes cracking and popping sounds when it's heating.
• There's a metallic taste in your hot water.
• Rust is forming on the outside bottom of your water heater.
• A puddle is forming under your hot water heater.
• The burner units have become clogged or rusty.

Unfortunately, leaking water heaters result in countless insurance claims each year. If a small leak goes unnoticed – occurring while you are on vacation, for example – the damage can quickly escalate into a major claim. Call SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 if you experience water damage caused by a faulty hot water heater.

Water Damage Timeline | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

6/15/2019 (Permalink)

Water intrusion into your Loganville, GA home or business requires a fast response to mitigate the damage.  Let’s examine how water damage can affect your home or business over time:

First Sixty Minutes

• Water is invasive and can quickly spread throughout the structure, finding the least path of resistance.
• Water saturates the structure, getting under flooring, behind cabinets and into walls and ceilings.
• Dyes on paper goods may bleed.

First 24 Hours

• Drywall starts swelling and breaking down.
• Wood furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Metal surfaces may begin tarnishing.
• Musty odors begin to intensify.
• Inks and dyes continue spreading.

48 Hours to 1 Week

• Mold may begin to develop and spread.
• Doors, windows, casing and wood structure begin to swell and warp.
• Wood flooring may swell and buckle.
• Metals begin to rust and corrode.
• Flooring adhesives begin to break down and release.
• Restoration expense has increased.

After 1 Week

• Structural safety concerns may be present.
• Health concerns may arise requiring relocation of occupants.
• Restoration time and cost have dramatically increased.

Often water damage goes unnoticed when it is caused by a leak underneath a cabinet, behind the refrigerator or in your attic or basement.  Many times, you are not physically able to identify where the water migrated.  If you find water leaking in your home or business, go ahead and call a professional to come find out the extent of the problem.  Remember even small leaks follow the Water Damage Timeline.

Storm Damage Commonly Produced by Thunderstorms | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

6/6/2019 (Permalink)

An example of hail that can damage your Snellville, GA home.

Thunderstorms are commonplace during the spring and summer, and they can often bring storm damage with them.

Are you familiar with the most common types of damage caused by thunderstorms?

When Floods or Storms hit Lawrenceville SERVPRO® is Ready!

6/6/2019 (Permalink)

A fast storm moves through Lawrenceville.

SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South 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.  Because we are a local provider of emergency services, our equipment can be placed on site the day it's needed most!

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 towns such as Snellville, Lawrenceville or Lilburn, 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.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today at (770) 448-5782.

Urgent Cleanup --Water Leak Inside Bank

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

A large bank in Lawrenceville called SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to ask for our mitigation services and needed us to come as quickly as possible.  Because it was a holiday weekend, our access to the bank was done remotely by the maintenance company.  We had to agree to keep the bank door closed and locked at all times for security measures.

We found the cause of water infiltration was due to rain water collecting in a fiber line conduit outside the bank which lead to the server room inside the bank.  Water had affected the VCT and walls in the Server room and leaked to the supply room.  This had affected the rubber backed glued down carpet tiles and walls.  We extracted all the VCT and carpets and then treated the area and set equipment.  Because there was no drain, we had to use a trash can to catch the water from the dehumidifiers.  The manager did not want us to pull up any carpet or any cove base which caused for a longer drying cycle.

Mitigation included extraction, content manipulation and drying of the structure. We had to monitor over the holiday weekend, but were focused on getting the bank open and in good order by regular banking hours.  This job presented challenges because of tight security and unusual access.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South will go beyond to get businesses back in working order and received a big thank you from the bank maintenance supervisor.

WE ARE READY | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

This flooded building was caused by a storm.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South specializes in storm clean up and flood damage restoration.  Our highly trained crews are ready with the equipment and knowledge needed to restore your property to its preloss condition.

Our Core Services:

• Emergency Service
• Water Mitigation
• Mold Remediation
• Asbestos Abatement
• Construction Repair

Fast Response:

Being locally owned and operated, means we can respond quicker and with the right resources.  Fast response helps limit the damage and potential for costly repair.  Being local means, we can get boots on the ground fast, and not roll out unnecessary people or equipment.

Training:

Our average technician has over five years of experience with our franchise.  All our technicians are IICRC certified and many hold numerous certifications including:

• WRT –  Water Restoration
• ASD –  Applied Structural Drying
• CDS –  Commercial Drying Specialist
• AMRT – Microbial Remediation Technician
• FRS –   Fire & Smoke Restoration
• OCT –   Odor Control Technician

 Resources:

No matter the size of the job we will have the resources.  Our local office houses over 500 pieces of drying equipment such as air movers, dehumidifiers, air scrubbers and generators.  When large storms roll through or multiple large commercial buildings are flooded we can pull equipment and people from our network of over 1,600 franchises across the county.

Emergency Water Mitigation | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

When flooding water infiltrates your home or business call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South immediately to get emergency services started.  While most instances of rising flood water entering your structure are not covered by insurance, you will usually need professional assistance to remove the water in a timely manner. 

Once our office receives your call at (770) 448-5782 we will dispatch an emergency service crew that can be onsite within one hour to extract the water using truck mounted or portable extractors.  Once the water is extracted our crews will determine any hazards that may be present and develop a plan for drying and a scope for material removal.

Our technicians will go over with you our recommendations for drying and demolition, so that you can make the right choice moving forward for your home or business.  When the flooding is limited in nature, there are many things an owner can do on their own or with the help of some good friends and colleagues.  If the flooding was substantial, it may be in your best interests to let the professionals complete the work.

Grilling Safety Tips | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

As the temperatures have already started to soar, it’s time to start thinking about summer.  There is nothing like firing up the grill during the summer months!  A backyard barbeque can become dangerous quickly if proper safety precautions aren’t considered. As your local SERVPRO® professional, we want you to have an enjoyable and safe summer. Consider the following tips to help ensure your summer celebrations are disaster free!

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and over hanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• When using a charcoal grill, let the coal completely cool before disposing in a metal container.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby as a safety measure.

Flood Prevention Tips for your Home or Business

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded building in Snellville, GA

Flood Protection Tips

When stormy weather brings an abundance of rain, rising flood waters can be damaging and dangerous.  Fortunately, there are things you can do ahead of storm season to help lessen any potential damage to your home or business.  The following tips may help you avoid costly flood damage repairs.

1. Inspect the Structure

Take a good visual inspection of your roof and building foundation.  If you are not able to get on your roof, it’s a good idea to hire a roofer to do a quick inspection.  Often flashing around chimneys can get dislodged and wind can do damage to your shingles.  A damaged roof is often the cause for water entering the structure.  Also take a good look at your basement foundation walls.  Have any cracks discovered repaired and waterproofed as soon as possible.

2. Check Sump Pumps

It’s a good idea to have any sump pumps inspected by a plumber on an annual basis.  Many times, a faulty or unplugged pump can spell disaster.  Make sure any floats in the pump are free from being tangled.  While pumps won’t eliminate all the damage, they will certainly prevent major flood damage.

3. Gutters and Downspouts

Make certain that your gutters are kept clean on a regular basis.  Clogged gutters can cause water to back up thereby creating problems.  Make sure the water collected in your gutters can move freely to the downspouts.  The downspouts should direct water away from the structure.  Often extensions can be added to ensure water is being directed far enough away.

4. Have a Plan

Having an emergency plan in place will help everyone understand what they are supposed to do.  Keep the plan up to date and review on a regular schedule.  Tasks can be distributed so that everyone has a role.

Even being prepared is sometimes not enough when bad flooding occurs.  Hopefully by following these tips you will be able to minimize any potential damage.  If flooding does affect your home or business, give SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South a call at 770-448-5782.

Sprinkler Malfunction causes Water Damage in Baseball Stadium

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

Atlanta is fortunate to have a new "state of the art" Baseball stadium that is called Suntrust Park.  SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South was contacted by a local Fire Sprinkler Company in Loganville because their client, Suntrust Park, had a water damage issue caused by the malfunction of the sprinkler system in one of the offices.

When our technicians arrived they discovered that a pipe to the sprinkler system had burst in the stairway area which caused water to migrate through three different rooms.  The Sprinkler Company only wanted us to extract the water in two of the areas which had unfinished concrete, but one of the affected areas was finished and carpeted which required extraction and drying equipment.  Because the carpet tiles had rubber backing, they had to be removed to get the concrete back to goal.  Equipment was set in the finished room and monitored daily.

It was one of the jobs that our technicians talked about quite often.  We helped Suntrust Park, Home of the Atlanta Braves, have clean dry offices.  SERVPRO made a strong First Pitch!!

SERVPRO® of Gwinnett Co. South Helps Local Police Station

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

Our local police precinct called because of a sewage back-up from the toilet in the women's bathroom.  This affected the hallway and went into the men's bathroom lobby as well.  The first floor was also affected in the office areas underneath the second floor bathrooms.  We had to place dehumidifiers, air scrubbers and disinfect the affected areas.  The ceiling tiles  had to be removed as well because it had become affected with the sewage back-up.

It was after we did the flood cuts that we noticed the existence of mold.  Pre-existing microbial growth from past water damage had caused extensive damage behind the bathroom tiles, under the hallway carpet, even under the metal sill plates and behind the wallpaper.  It was determined that all the drywall in the affected areas had to be removed as well because of the microbial growth.  After the affected areas were removed, dried and treated, a third party Industrial Hygienist came to do clearance testing.  The chief of police was pleased that we were there to help, and he could rest assured that now his Precinct would be a healthy place for his police force in the future.

This commercial job entailed more than was originally scoped because of the discovery of microbial growth; however, we received a glowing report from the chief.  He stated that he would not hesitate to recommend SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to other precincts that are affected by water damage.  

Church Restoration is a Top Priority With SERVPRO® of Gwinnett Co. South

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is located in an area with many churches, synagogues and other religious institutions, and we market to them so that they will know how we can help if a disaster such as water damage, fire, mold or flooding has affected their facility.  We recommend that they have an Emergency Ready Plan  so that they know before a disaster strikes where their water, gas and electrical systems are located, how to cut them off and who to contact.  It is often the pastor or a board member who knows, but often when an emergency happens they are unavailable.  It is essential for religious institution to have a plan on file so that prompt clean up can begin.

Many of the churches in Snellville and Grayson have preschools attached to them, and we have helped them with emergency services from toilet overflows because of children putting toys, etc. in the toilet.  These churches were relieved that we could begin mitigation so quickly and that the preschool would not be disrupted for a lengthy time.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is equipped with highly qualified technicians, all the mitigation equipment necessary and a professional construction department to make religious properties a top priority.

Practicing a “Restore vs. Replace” Mentality | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

This fire damaged home was caused by an electrical fire.

It’s well known that when disaster strikes, we can get there faster, but that is not the only reason why we should be one of your first calls if the worst should occur.

When it comes to your property, our technicians have a “restore first” mentality, which is aided by the use of specialized equipment and cleaning techniques. This mentality also helps reduce the interruptions to life and helps get your home or business back to pre-disaster condition.

Ways to Prevent Fires While Cooking | SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

Extinguishing an oven fire.

Even though the kitchen can be a wonderfully versatile place where family and friends gather to catch up or enjoy preparing and eating a meal together, it is also a place where many home fires occur.

Cooking fires are the No. 1 cause of home fires and injuries. The leading cause of these kitchen fires is unattended cooking.

State Farm paid out a whopping $130 million for homeowners insurance claims related to grease and other cooking fires in 2017. According to the insurance company, these are the worst states for kitchen fires:

• North Carolina
• Texas
• Pennsylvania
• California
• Ohio
• Illinois
• Maryland
• New York
• Alabama
• Georgia

Commercial Large Loss

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

Large Commercial Loss

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

Water damage to your commercial building can be as simple as outside flood water entering the front lobby of your building or as complex as a fire sprinkler discharging on the tenth floor of an office building.  We have extensive experience on all different types and sizes of commercial water losses in the greater Atlanta area.

Developing a Plan

As soon as we arrive onsite our number one priority is learning your main priority.  After all, nobody knows your business better than you do!  Our technicians understand that you need to have your business up and running as soon as possible.  We also understand that as a business owner or manager you are having to deal with dozens of needs during a crisis: employees, inventory, technology, customers.  We need to understand your priority so that we can develop a plan that works for your business.

Large Loss Response Team

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is a qualified Large Loss Response Team (LLRT).  Being named an LLRT team member means that we have been vetted for having the resources and experience to handle large commercial losses.  So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we will be on our way with the help you need!

Our Service Sets Us Apart

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

Why use SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South for your water, fire or mold disasters?  The main reason to use our company is the type of service we give.  We are committed to helping the homeowner or business understand the process of mitigation and to offer the highest quality of service.  Our technicians have many years of experience and have the knowledge of how to best apply the guidelines for the restoration process.

Our clients can rely on us to call before we come, to show up on time, to perform the needed mitigation work in a timely manner and to explain the process in extensive detail.  We value the confidence that our clients have with us.  Our technicians’ high standard of professionalism can turn an unfortunate water or fire damage into a more positive one by our extraordinary customer service.

Here to help!

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

We understand that emergencies never happen at a good time.  That’s where we can help!  No matter whether you have water, mold or smoke damage, you can count on us to be ready.  SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South has a qualified team that can begin your emergency restoration services today. 

Water Damage

Suffering severe water damage from flooding water or a burst pipe needs immediate attention.  The water needs to be extracted so that drying can take place as soon as possible.  The longer water sits in your home or business the greater chances of having secondary damages such as mold.  We have a team of trained water technicians on call 24 hours a day.  When you call our number after hours you will get a live person who will page the water team that is on call.  Our average call back time for the technician responding is just 14 minutes.

Mold Damage

If you see mold inside your home or office then give SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South a call.  We have trained IICRC technicians certified as Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians that can remediate the problem.  Mold estimates are scheduled by our office administration team during regular business hours.  There is a service fee for scheduling a technician to visit your home and develop a written estimate for remediation.  This service fee is deducted from the estimate if you select us to complete the work. 

Mold often appears from water damage that is not seen or was not dried properly.  Sometimes mold is not visually present but there is a moldy or stale smell in the air.  In this case you will need to call an Industrial Hygienist to come and sample the home.  They will send these samples to a lab to determine what types of mold are present and if you have a problem that needs our attention.

Fire Damage

Fires can be destructive along with the soot and smoke that are also present.  Fire damage requires emergency service as soon as possible.  Securing the home from unwanted visitors and mitigating corrosive damage to metals that can become pitted from the acidic soot are just a few of the items that require immediate attention.  We are trained, licensed and insured to handle all the problems that come from having a fire.

When Water Damage Strikes

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

One of the most important things about water damage is to treat it quickly. Whether you have sustained a busted pipe or something more serious, if the water damage reached your carpets and was not treated professionally, you still have damage happening right beneath your feet. Mold is growing in your carpets, and you need to take care of it. ASAP.

Mold can start within 24-48 hours of the time of loss in the right environment and conditions. Your home offers a constant food supply to the mold spores. Mold spores feed on wood, drywall, insulation, paper and anything it can get attached on. After a day or more, the mold starts colonizing, creating those big black stains we all know from photos (or from our home, if luck wasn't on our side).

Mold Is Dangerous, Even When Hidden

In most cases, mold will be discovered after it colonizes, and by then its growth is rapid. If you suspect you have mold, you should call a mold expert to check it out. Whether it's a water damage certified technician, a home inspector or an industrial hygienist. The mold usually grows where water damage hit, or where high humidity is found. If water leaked on your carpet - that's where the mold will start growing.

To protect your carpets from mold after they're flooded by water, you should follow the steps below. If it already happened, and you missed one of the steps, you should check your carpets for dark stains or moldy smell. You don't want mold growing under your carpets, in your floors and all around your home.

Steps to prevent mold after water damage:

1. Stop the water source - first thing first. Stop the water from flowing in and get them out of your home. If it's a leaky pipe or a broken appliance, close the water main. If it's the roof, try and see if you can get a roofing company to come for an emergency service and close the gap. Once you've stopped the water from coming, you need to get it out.
2. Extract the water - to prevent further damage and minimize long term effects, it's important to get the water out. If it's a small amount, you can blot it out or use a mop to absorb it (if on the floor and not carpets). If it's a large amount, get a water mitigation company like SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South to help you with it.
3. Get it Dry – Fast! - If you have fans, or you know where you can rent drying fans - go for it. If you need some help with drying your home, we'd be glad to help as well. Call us and let us know what you need. It's important to have the property dried as fast as you can to avoid mold growth, as well as the water being absorbed in carpets, floors, rugs or other items. It's also recommended to use dehumidifiers to lower the humidity in the affected area, especially if you can't air it out properly.
4. Steam clean everything you can - carpets, rugs, flooring, furniture - if it had water get to it you want it professionally cleaned right now, before the mold gets comfortable and colonizes. Once the mold sets in, that item is probably lost and will need to be replaced.
5. Sanitize the affected area - if you hired a professional damage restoration company, they'll do it as part of the water mitigation process. If you didn't, and decided to solve the issue yourself, you should clean anything that met the water.

WE WILL MAKE SURE THE MOLD IS GONE

If you still feel like your clean-up wasn't enough, or you feel there is mold hiding somewhere - contact us at SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We'd be more than happy to pay you a visit and provide a professional opinion on the matter.

Remember, it's very dangerous to have mold in your home - mold can have very serious side effects on you and your health. Get your mold remediated as soon as you can.

Smoke and Fire Deodorization

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke and Fire Deodorization

Strong smells often linger after having a fire.  The type of smells that develop are determined by the type of material that was on fire or smoldering.  A hot fire that burned natural building materials will smell different than that of a protein fire from frying or a slow smoldering fire that burned plastics and rubber.  These odors can cause years of problems if they are not handled by a professional.  At SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South we employ a multi-step approach to deodorization.

Source Removal

The first step in deodorization is to find the source.  In the case of a fire the area may be obvious, however there are many causes of odor that may not be easily noticed.  Once the source is found by our trained technicians we must remove it. 

Cleaning

The next step in the process is to clean the effected areas.  Many of the soot particles are deposited both on and often inside certain building materials depending on how hot the fire was.  Our technicians are trained on different cleaning strategies dependent on the surface to be cleaned and the soils deposited.

Deodorizing

We employ a combination of pairing and masking deodorization techniques depending on the situation.  Hot fires open the pores of building materials where foul smelling soot can be deposited.  When the fire is extinguished and the materials cool down, the pores of these material shrink, thus trapping odor molecules inside.  In such cases we will use a pairing agent along with a Hot Thermal Fogger to reopen the pores.  The pairing agent will attach to and change the odor molecule so that it no longer smells.

Sealing

While sealing of wood is not always required, we will often do this on studs and structural members.  One of the reasons for sealing is because these building components are often covered up by drywall, or they are located in hard to reach areas.  Summer brings hot weather and as building materials heat up, these materials are capable of releasing odors.  Sealing ensures that any soot not completely eliminated from cleaning remains trapped.

Steps for Preventing Mold

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

Intrusion of water into your building can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth.

If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South handles water damages every day and knows that prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time. If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly. If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold.
• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
• Excessive humidity.

To control mold growth in your business, we offer the following tips:

• Repair leaky plumbing and leaks in the foundation of your building
• Reduce moisture with increased surface temperatures or reduced humidity levels in the air. To increase surface temperatures, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce humidity, repair leaks, increase ventilation if outside air is cold and dry or use a dehumidifier.
• Keep heating, ventilation and air conditioning drip pans clean, flowing properly and unobstructed
• Maintain indoor humidity below 50 percent
• Perform regular inspections and maintenance on buildings and heating and air conditioning equipment
• Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 1-2 days
• Provide adequate drainage around the foundation of your building.  Regularly maintain roof gutters, and ensure that water does not collect near the foundation
• Insulate windows, walls, pipes, roofs, exterior, floors and other cold surfaces to reduce condensation
• Watch your utility bills; an unusually high water bill could signal an interior leaking problem 

If you are sure or suspect that there is mold in your building, call SERVPRO immediately at 770-448-5782. The longer you wait to call, the mold growth will continue to spread, resulting in a greater chance of unrecoverable property. SERVPRO professionals have the expertise to prevent or mitigate the devastating effects of mold damage.

Why Call SERVPRO for your Mitigation Needs?

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

We understand that emergencies never happen at a good time. That’s where we can help! No matter whether you have water, mold or smoke damage, you can count on us to be ready. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South has a qualified team that can begin your emergency restoration services today.

Water Damage

Suffering severe water damage from flooding water or a burst pipe needs immediate attention. The water needs to be extracted so that drying can take place as soon as possible. The longer water sits in your home or business the greater chances of having secondary damages such as mold. We have a team of trained water technicians on call 24 hours a day. When you call our number after hours you will get a live person who will page the water team that is on call. Our average call back time for the technician responding is just 14 minutes.

Mold Damage

If you see mold inside your home or office then give SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South a call. We have trained IICRC technicians certified as Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians that can remediate the problem. Mold estimates are scheduled by our office administration team during regular business hours. There is a service fee for scheduling a technician to visit your home and develop a written estimate for remediation. This service fee is deducted from the estimate if you select us to complete the work.

Mold often appears from water damage that is not seen or was not dried properly. Sometimes mold is not visually present but there is a moldy or stale smell in the air. In this case you will need to call an Industrial Hygienist to come and sample the home. They will send these samples to a lab to determine what types of mold are present and if you have a problem that needs our attention.

Fire Damage

Fires can be destructive along with the soot and smoke that are also present. Fire damage requires emergency service as soon as possible. Securing the home from unwanted visitors and mitigating corrosive damage to metals that can become pitted from the acidic soot are just a few of the items that require immediate attention. We are trained, licensed and insured to handle all the problems that come from having a fire.

We Certify Our Whole Team

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

How do you know if the company you choose to mitigate your water damage has the proper training?  In the restoration industry, the Institute of Inspection Cleaning Restoration and Certification (IICRC) developed the “Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration” or S500.  Along with the written standard the IICRC also provides training and certification for restoring property damage.

We believe that ALL our employees need to be IICRC trained in Water Damage Restoration.  We don’t believe in sending out one trained technician with a team of uncertified workers.  On the job training certainly helps but being a certified Water Damage Technician is crucial.  At SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South we send all of our full-time employees to the three-day IICRC training class after six months of employment.  This includes production personnel, our office staff and the marketing department.  If you touch a water damage file…you get trained!

Meet Our Mitigation Team

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South would like to introduce you to our hard-working team. We have a well-educated group here to help you in a disaster situation. Our office staff consists of Vicki Wheeler, Amanda Barber and Baylee Kelley. They will be the first voice you hear and your first contact with our company. Tammie Logan is our accounts manager and will be able to help with any payment questions or concerns. Lori Miller is our reconstruction administrator and will be able to answer any questions your have regarding reconstruction after your mitigation has been completed. Our office staff is IICRC certified and knowledgeable in the mitigation process.

Our crew chiefs hold certifications in WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician), AMRT (Applied Microbial Remediation Technician), FSRT (Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician) & ASD (Applied Structural Drying Technician) amongst their other certifications. Our crew chief team consists of Jesse Garmon, Benny Stanley, Tom Jackson, Keonte Askew and Alex Flores. Our technicians that are always there to lend a helping hand are Mindi Marshall, Melody Marshall, Michelle Kelly, Brittany Trotty-Moctezuma, Cindy Purvis, Gilberto Villagomez, Jerry Moctezuma, Mauricio Vargas and Elizabeth Abreu. We make sure that anyone in our crew can assist you with any questions or concerns during the mitigation or remediation process.

Please call our office at any time, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Our office number is 770-448-5782.

Meet our Reconstruction Department

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South we are excited to introduce our Reconstruction Team. We have 3 Project Managers: Mike, Austin and Cameron as well as Lori, our Reconstruction Administrator!

Our experience in construction dates to the early 2000's when we started out as just a general construction company.

Our reconstruction department can handle any size job. We will do insurance jobs or self-pay jobs. No job is too small or too large for our team.

We believe in quality, honesty and hard work.  We are a company based on trust and reliability. We value our customers opinions and strive to make it the easiest experience in a difficult time.

If you are looking for a reliable reconstruction team, then we are your guys. We build more than homes; we build lasting relationships. Give us a call at 770-448-5782 for all your reconstruction needs.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett is CPR Certified

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

What started out as just training for our on-site personnel turned into training for our whole office. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South received a visit from Benjamin Karp at Georgia CPR. In the picture you can see us practicing our CPR techniques!

We were taught how to position a person to perform chest compressions and how to properly administer the technique. In addition to learning how to administer CPR, we learned whether you should. We were taught that before beginning CPR, you should first check to see if the person is conscious or unconscious. We were taught how to use an automatic external defibrillator (AED) to deliver a shock to a patient before beginning CPR as well. 

In conclusion, Not only are we a firm that is certified in Water, Mold and Fire but we are all certified in CPR, First Aid and AED as well! We are always prepared!!

Steps to Preventing a Commercial Water Loss

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

Having a water loss in your home is bad enough, however, water damage in your commercial building can be even worse in some cases. There are several reasons why commercial water damage can be more of a nightmare than residential water damage. For one, serious water damage can keep employees out of your office or important business from getting done. Here at SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South, we recommend you do the following things to prevent ever having water damage in your commercial building.

Maintain the Grounds Around Your Building- If you don’t pay close attention, roots from trees in your yard can grow towards your pipes and cause them to break in some cases. The best way to prevent this is to not plant any trees close to any pipes going through your yard, but if you haven’t done that you should pay close attention to make sure you don’t have any roots threatening your pipes.

Look Out for Restroom Over-Usage- All-too-often bathrooms, especially toilets and urinals, can be very prone to flooding. Obviously, this is most common when the bathrooms are frequently used. If you have bathrooms that receive a significant amount of use, you should make sure it receives maintenance checks regularly to catch any problems before they cause you a serious issue.

Have Your Building Inspected by A Professional- It never hurts to call in a professional to inspect your building for any potential water damage risks you may have. A large amount of water damage issues is caused by a small problem becoming more serious and eventually causing a flood. A professional inspection will be able to catch these problems before they lead to any serious problems.

Educate Your Employees- With so many different people in and out of your building every day, there is greater chance of flooding due to human error. To help mitigate this possibility, you should educate your employees about what they should and shouldn’t do to prevent flooding and water damage from happening. Most of these suggestions will be common sense things to do, but making a point of it can help prevent foolish mistakes.

Even following all the steps above there is still the potential that a water loss happens to you. If it ever does, our team at SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is here to help. Contact us at 770-448-5782 24/7.

After a Storm Event

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

After a storm, our experience from past storms have shown us that people are resourceful and get anxious to get back home and get their business back up and running. What is important to remember is not to jeopardize your health and safety because you are trying to recover as fast as possible.

Too often claims have been compromised because evidence has been disposed of or altered. To avoid your carrier alleging they didn’t see the evidence of the covered cause of loss or the damaged property, you need to document with photo and video, promptly communicate with your insurance company, and ask them for written instructions on when and how to handle the damage. These best practices sound good but often you can’t reach your insurance company after a storm or get a person on the phone. If this happens to you, continue to document and ensure mitigation but do not throw away items or alter the impact of the damages in the immediate aftermath of the storm. Sometimes it takes weeks before an adjuster comes to the property or even weeks to get access to go back to your property

Here are some ideas to consider:

1. The insurance company is panicked about this storm and the aftermath too. In part, because the storm cuts into their profits, and because the magnitude of loss and number of claims may be too much for their systems and teams to handle.
2. This may be your adjuster’s first hurricane assignment.
3. The representative coming to your property doesn’t have a copy of your insurance policy. Deposition after deposition tells us that the adjuster may have access to a declaration page on an IPad but these adjusters are not studying your coverage and endorsements, but are relying on their “experience”.
4. You can get another copy of insurance policy from the company and you should ask for the complete copy. If you don’t ask for it, some insurance companies may take your silence to mean that you were familiar with the coverage. Some carriers give the impression that any insured who doesn’t ask for help knows all of the insurance provisions backwards and forward and they don’t assist their insureds.

If you have been affected by a storm event. Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We are used to speaking with adjusters and can help. We are available 24/7.

Oh No! A Pipe Burst, What Next?

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

It might be the sound of dripping water on the ceiling or behind a wall, or a mysterious puddle on the floor. Maybe you've noticed a decrease in water pressure when you turn on the hot water faucet, or no water flow whatsoever. These are all signs that a pipe may have burst.

It only takes a small hole to cause you big problems when the water starts to melt.

Pipe Bursts Can Be Destructive

They happen most often in the wintertime, when water freezes inside - outdoor plumbing or in pipes near exterior walls. As the water freezes, its volume can expand and it exerts pressure on the pipe's walls. The ice can block the pipe so that the water that is behind it adds even more pressure. Whether the pipe is copper, lead, or PVC, it can give way under the pressure. you may not become aware of the emergency until the weather warms up. Then your first sign might be wet ceilings or walls if the broken pipe is concealed from view.

What to do When a Pipe Bursts

1. If you discover a leak, try to discover where the leak seems to be coming from, and then turn off the water at the main water valve. That will stop the water flow and hopefully keep the damage down.
2. If possible, you may need to also turn off the electricity in the affected area.
3. Call a licensed plumber to repair the leak. Many plumbers have 24/hour availability in emergencies for plumbing repair. It is a good idea to keep a plumber's contact information handy just for these kinds of situations. The plumber will be able to replace the damaged pipes or fittings and turn your water back on.
4. Once the leak has been repaired, you may mitigation. Mitigation may include water extraction, removal of affected materials that may work as a moisture barrier and setting drying equipment.

How to Prevent Burst Pipes

Here are a couple of things you can do to prevent cold weather emergencies:

1. If plumbing runs along an exterior wall, leave the water dripping in the faucet and open the under-sink cabinet to let the warmer indoor air in.
2. If the outdoor temperature is supposed to drop and you will be away, make sure before you go that the inside temperature will be maintained above 55 degrees in your absence.
3. Insulate pipes in unheated areas.

Call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 for any water emergency needs.

Deep Frying a Turkey Safely

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

Every holiday people are lured in by the promise of moist, sweet turkey meat and the deep turkey fryer has become an increasingly popular way to make a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.  However, cooking up Tom the Turkey in a vat of boiling oil does come with many dangers.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, every year deep-fryer fires are responsible for five deaths, 60 injuries, the destruction of 900 homes and more than $15 million in property damage.

Therefore it is most important to follow a few safety precautions if you choose to fry a turkey for the holidays.

• Don’t Deep Fry a Frozen Turkey

Frozen turkeys are full of moisture, and we all know how water and hot oil don’t mix well.  Make sure that your turkey is completely thawed before trying to fry it.

• Turkey Fryers can Easily Tip Over

Be sure that you place your turkey fryer on solid footing so that it will not tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.

• Don’t Let Oil Get Too Hot

When oil gets around 400-425 degrees it can catch on fire by itself.  Most fryers do not have thermostat controls, and it would be prudent to have a thermometer to make sure you keep the oil below 400 degrees.

• Don’t Use Too Much Oil

An overfilled cooking pot can cause oil to spill when the turkey is put in, and when the oil runs down next to the flame on the burner, a catastrophic fire could result.

• Never Deep-Fry Indoors or in a Garage

The best place to use a turkey fryer is on a level spot out in your yard away from the house or anything flammable.

May these tips help you and your family to enjoy a safe holiday with a delicious fried turkey. Remember to call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South if you have any water, fire or mold problems during the holidays. Call us at 770-448-5782. We can help 24/7.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

Frigid winter temperatures can cause pipes to freeze. While we can’t control the weather, there are things we can do to prevent pipes from freezing. We’ve pulled together tips to help prevent frozen pipes and a list of suggestions for you to follow if they do.

Frozen water pipes and the damage they can cause are a reality for thousands of people each year. That’s especially the case when you are at below freezing temperatures for an extended period of time.

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety says a burst pipe can cause more than $5,000 in water damage. That’s because the damage can be extensive.

To prevent pipes from freezing and causing major damage, follow these steps:

• Drain water from pipes that are likely to freeze. This includes your swimming pool and sprinkler water supply lines.
• Disconnect any hoses from the outside of your home, drain the hoses and store them in the garage. Make sure to close the indoor valves supplying these outdoor access points.
• Insulate the area around vents and light fixtures. This helps prevent heat from escaping into the attic.
• Seal any wall cracks. Be sure to pay careful attention to the areas around utility service lines.
• Open kitchen cabinets. This allows the warm air to circulate around the pipes.
• Keep the garage doors closed to protect water lines.
• Allow your faucets to drip cold water on the coldest days. The movement will make it harder for the water to freeze.
• Keep your thermostat at the same temperature day and night. Never let it fall below 55 degrees Fahrenheit when you leave your home.
• Ensure you have proper seals on all doors and windows.
• Place a 60-watt bulb in areas where you’re concerned about pipes freezing. Make sure there are no combustible materials near the bulb.
• Take swift action if the pipes located inside an exterior wall are freezing. Cut a hole in the wall toward the inside of the house to expose those pipes to warmer air.

Signs of frozen pipes One of the earliest signs of a frozen pipe is when no water comes out of your faucet when you turn it on. If you notice that, first head to the basement and check to see that the water is still turned on and that you don’t have a leak. Once you’ve confirmed these two things, continue your inspection to make sure one of your pipes has not burst.

If your search reveals that your pipes are frozen but none have ruptured, you have two choices:

1. Call a plumber to help thaw your frozen pipes. This is a good idea if you don’t think you can safely thaw the pipes yourself, you don’t know where the frozen pipes are or you can’t access the frozen area.
2. Attempt to thaw the frozen pipes yourself. Be aware this option can be dangerous if not done correctly.

If you attempt to thaw the frozen pipes yourself, keep the following tips in mind:

• Keep your faucet open. Water and steam will be created during the thawing process, and your pipes need an opening to discharge this. Keeping the faucet open also allows for moving water to run through the pipe, which will expedite the thawing process.
• Apply heat to the section of the pipe that is frozen. This can be done by wrapping an electronic heating pad around the pipe, scouring the area with a hair dryer or both. If you lack either of these items, using towels soaked in hot water will help as well. Never use a blowtorch, propane or kerosene heaters, a charcoal stove or any other open flame device to thaw your frozen pipes. You should also avoid using a space heater unless you are sure the area is clear of any flammable material.
• Continue applying heat until water flow returns to normal. Once you have successfully thawed the pipe, turn on other faucets in your home to check for any more frozen water pipes.

Make sure your home is protected. Contact our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 to make sure you have the coverage you, your family and home need.

Candle Safety

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

As peak hurricane season continues through the end of November and winter storms follow, it’s critical that you and your family know the best practices for staying safe during power outages.

While flashlights and battery-powered lamps are safe sources of light during lengthy power outages, candles are also reliable alternatives if used safely. It’s important to remember that a candle is an open flame, which always runs the potential risk of a fire-related accident. According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than 20% of candle fires involving fatalities occur during a loss of power.

Here are some safety precautions to follow when the lights go out:

DO pay attention to proximity. It’s important to make sure that you’re not burning a candle on or near anything that could catch fire. Keep candles at least 12 inches away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, or any other flammable objects. Place burning candles at least 3 inches apart from one another so they don’t melt one another or burn improperly.

DON’T leave burning candles unattended. Try to restrict people and candles to one room in the house so the location of family members can always be accounted for and you can keep an eye on open flames. Extinguish all candles before going to bed or leaving a room.

DO place candles on a fire-resistant surface. Place a handle in its holder on a stable, nonflammable surface, such as a metal cookie sheet, frying pan or ceramic plate.

DON’T light a candle if you smell gas. If you smell gas inside or outside your home, immediately put out all open flames, shut off your gas supply, leave the area, get to a safe place, and call 911.

DO use pillar or container candles. Broader-based candles are a suitable option for power outages, as these are less likely to be accidentally knocked over. When possible, candles should be enclosed within glass hurricane holders or globes.

DON’T use candles as a search guide or night light. Avoid walking around with a candle. Dark rooms can increase the chance of tripping or brushing against a flammable item. Use a flashlight instead.

DO keep candles out of reach of children and pets. Place candles up high to avoid the risk of pets, children, or adults accidentally bumping candles over in the dark.

If you have any questions on candle safety or need any fire mitigation services, contact our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We are available 24/7 to assist.

What is a Water Mitigation Technician?

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

A water mitigation technician works, usually in connection with a water-damage restoration team, to mitigate water damage to your home. If your home is subject to serious water damage, due to burst pipes, flooding, fire-extinguishing water hoses or some other unforeseen catastrophe, it can be a real problem. Your house will be a mess, carpets and furniture can be soaked, and valuables can be damaged, sometimes beyond repair.

A technician from your water-damage restoration company works to dry and remove as much of this water as possible from your home and salvage your possessions to the best of his ability. They are able to do this due to a combination of sophisticated drying equipment provided by the water-damage restoration contractor, combined with expertly trained technicians.

These technicians understand the different types of water damage, such as damage from sanitary water, gray water or black water. They can determine how severe your water damage is, such as damage that only affects part of a room, damage that affects an entire room, damage where ceilings, walls, carpet and insulation are fully saturated, and specialty drying situations.

Do I need a Water Mitigation Technician?

You can certainly try to clean up the water without the help of a water-damage restoration company, but your best chance of getting your life back to normal as quickly as possible is through hiring water mitigation professionals. In addition to saving you a lot of labor and heartache, an experienced, quality water mitigation company like SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South knows the fastest way to effectively dry your home. They can also determine the best way to save salvageable property and how to deal with problems like mold and bacteria. They also know how to work with your insurance and can make that part a smooth process as well.

Where Do I Find a Water Mitigation Technician?

If you need water damage restoration, you can contact our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South right now. We offer 24/7 emergency water mitigation restoration services. You can contact us at 770-448-5782 for all your emergency needs.

What To Do When Your Water Heater Leaks

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

Waking up is hard to do. You need to get out of your cozy bed, go wash up, get dressed and get some coffee in you before you start your day. Now think of getting out of bed, as hard as that is, walking slowly to the shower, opening the hot water, and waiting for it to run so you can hop in, and nothing happens.

Water stays cold as ice, you realize you can't hit the shower this morning, and you try to figure out what just happened. Could you have forgotten to turn on the water heater? Could it be broken? Time to check it out.

As you walk downstairs you hear a low trickling noise as if a faucet is open somewhere. You keep going, and as you approach the basement, you hear it louder - there is water running somewhere over there. Question is - where? As you reach the last step, you put your foot down and immediately realize you haven't even opened your eyes properly. You're standing in a big pond, which was once your basement. No hot shower today. What now then?

First thing - close the water source. Whether it's the water heater, a pipe or a water leaking in from a window, make sure no more water can get in. Close the water mains, shut down any valve leading to the affected area, and close the window if that was the source of the water.

Second thing you do is take care of all that water. Water spreads fast and has the power to cause lots and lots of trouble over time. If you don't have a water drain in the basement, it's time to call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782.

Water leaks and floods should be taken care of as fast as possible. The reason is that most homes aren't waterproof on the inside. Standing water will ruin your carpets, floors, furniture, and even get into drywall if given the opportunity. Moreover, the standing water becomes a health hazard after a while, even if they came from a clean source (also called Category 1 water damage). Another reason for you to hurry is mold and how fast mold can start to grow after your basement suffered from a water damage.

our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South offers a 24/7 response to all your water damage requirements and needs, providing you a quick and thorough solution to your problem. We'll get your life back to normal in no time.

What To Do When Your Sump Pump Fails?

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

In most cases sump pumps fail during rain events. When that happens, the water usually seeps in through the foundation or basement walls and begins pooling in the lowest area of the basement, gradually rising as more water comes in. So what do you do at that point? Here’s a couple of suggestions to assist you in navigating a difficult situation.

First, you’re going to need to get the sump pump fixed. A plumber is going to be necessary to get the sump pump back up and running. Immediately call a licensed plumber in your area and get on their schedule as quickly as possible. During rain events, it’s not unusual for many homes in the area to suffer the same fate as you, so plumbers will get booked up quickly. Act fast and call for their help!

Second, do the same with a certified water mitigation company.  Many times, it doesn’t make sense for a water mitigation company to come out immediately, because you’re paying them to pump out water as more water is coming in. It’s just an endless cycle that can cost you a lot of money without doing much in the way of saving your home. You may decide that’s worth the money to you, but in many cases, it makes more sense to try and manage things temporarily while you wait for a plumber to fix your sump pump. That said, even if the plumber fixes your sump pump you’re still going to need a restoration company to come in and remove any excess moisture and dry out the affected areas.

Call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest at 770-448-5782 for any of your mitigation needs.  

Prevent Moldy Carpets

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can grow in virtually every area of a home and on any surface, if given the right environment. That includes your beautiful carpets that you spend so much energy trying to keep clean and looking beautiful. While there can be many causes of mold in a home, when it comes to moldy carpets there are a few things you can do to reduce the chances you ever have to deal with it.

Mold damage can be costly.  Not to mention the health effects it can bring upon inhabitants of the dwelling with a mold problem. As with many aspects of home maintenance, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Not only can moldy carpets be unsightly and need to be replaced, they can be the tip of the iceberg in terms of more substantial damage to your property. So, consider taking these steps to keep black mold from growing on your carpets!

Control the humidity and temperature in your home

Mold grows best with a certain amount of moisture in the air as well as certain temperature ranges. One way to help prevent mold growth on any surface in your home, including your carpets, is to ensure your humidity levels never reach 60%. And while it’s unlikely you like living in this warm of a house, make sure you don’t set the thermometer to 80 degrees.

Consider a different floor covering in areas prone to moisture

Some areas of a home are just more prone to humidity and moisture. Like your bathroom, for instance. Every design aspect of your home should be done with appearance and functionality in mind, and that includes making sure you’re making smart decisions about the type of floor coverings to have in certain areas based on the area’s usage along with environmental aspects. When it comes to bathroom floors, and to a lesser extent basement floors, sometimes the smartest plan is to avoid carpets altogether.

Use carpet padding that is anti-microbial

There are a few different types of padding most commonly used in residential homes. While some are more budget friendly than others, if you’re considering carpet in areas that may be more prone to moisture issues, consider installing rubber-slab carpet padding. It’s much more resistant to mold growth than traditional carpet pads. 

If you do get standing water on your carpets, get it out fast!

This goes for any surface type in your home, and it’s especially true with carpets. With the right humidity levels and temperatures, mold growth can accelerate quickly when food and water are present. Getting the water and excess moisture out quickly can be the difference between a close call and a serious health problem for your family.

Clean your carpets regularly

Vacuuming your carpets regularly, along with having them professionally steam cleaned, can go a long way in preventing mold growth. One of the components of rapid mold growth is food, and mold loves dirt, grime, food, and any other organic substance that can be found in your carpet fibers. Regularly cleaning your carpets is a great way to help reduce the likelihood of dealing with mold in the future! 

Typically, if you have black mold on your carpets a visual inspection is all that is necessary. But in other instances, you may notice a musty smell or perhaps you’ve also been experiencing some troubling health issues that you think may be attributed to high levels of mold. In most states, mold remediation companies must be different than mold testing companies. The way it works is that the mold testing company will come take environmental samples from your home and have them sent off to a lab to be evaluated. If it’s determined through the testing that your home has a toxic black mold problem, it’s at that point that you’ll want to hire a mold removal company like us. Call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782.

Prevent Mold Growth in the Summer

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

In the summer, a closed house with the air-conditioning turned off will have higher humidity levels than an air-conditioned home. A vacant house also receives little or no sunlight through closed shades and no air movement with the fan off and the doors locked.

If you simply leave the air conditioning running, it will cool the home and remove moisture from the air and circulate and filter the air.

Molds thrive when the humidity levels exceed 70 percent. Because humidity levels vary from day to day, the thermostat should have been left at or below 74 degrees, and the fan should have been set to "On."

Normally, mold cleaning and remediation processes disturb the spores, which become airborne and can settle on unclean or untreated surfaces, where they continue to thrive in the humid, warm, dark conditions.

The Environmental Protection Agency suggests that self-cleaning should be considered if the area to be treated is less than 10 square feet. A guide to treatment and cleaning is available at http://www.epa.gov/mold/index.html. You can also learn more about mold remediation contractors and remedies for contaminated buildings.

Molds present at typical indoor levels have never been scientifically shown to cause any other illness.

Even when mold spores were at elevated levels, there were no similar elevated reports of illnesses. Examples from the article show certain occupations that are exposed to extremely high concentrations of mold spores.

• Sawmills: 1.5 million CFU/m3 (colony-forming units per cubic meter of air).
• Honeybee overwintering facilities: 2,200 to 13,931 CFU/m3
• Spawning sheds of mushroom farms: 100,000 CFU/m3
• Municipal waste-composting facility: 8.2 million CFU/m3
• Farms: 120,000,000 CFU/m3; it's 10 times greater (1.2 billion CFU/m3) on farms where adverse health effects are reported.

In these highly exposed populations, however, there are no reports of brain damage or of many of the other fungal diseases now common in current indoor mold attributions. What I gathered from the article is that some people -- those with asthma, hay fever or suppressed immune systems -- can be affected by low levels of mold spores, while the majority are not aware of the spores in the very air they breathe, even when there are elevated levels.

When mold spores are discovered at elevated indoor levels, you need to contact your doctor first to determine if the mold species will affect you or your family. Then you need to consider some type of removal or treatment of the affected areas.

Will Homeowners Insurance Pay for a Fallen Tree?

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

If a tree falls in your yard, and no one hears it, is it covered by your insurance? What about the cost to remove a fallen tree? The answer, as it is with all insurance questions, is “it depends”. Policy forms vary.

Did a Tree Hit Your Home or Other Structure?   

If so, you probably have coverage for:

The cost to remove the tree

The damage to your home, fence or other structure

But, not coverage of the cost to replace the tree itself.

Is a Fallen Tree Blocking Your Driveway?

Depending on the edition of your home insurance policy, you may have coverage for at least some of the cost to remove a tree that’s blocking your driveway. Even if it didn’t damage any of your property.

Did a Tree Fall on Your Car?

If so, your auto policy, not your homeowner’s policy, might pay to fix your car. Hopefully, you have Georgia auto insurance, and chose to buy “other than collision” (widely known as “comprehensive”) coverage. The cost to remove the tree is not covered by either home or auto insurance, unless the tree blocks your driveway (see above).

If There’s No Damage, There May Be No Coverage

If a tree falls without damaging any insured structures or blocking the driveway, you will likely need to pay the costs to remove it. Some insurance policies provide a limited amount of coverage for these cases. Check with your agent or insurance company to see if yours does.

Did Your Tree Hit Your Neighbor’s Property?

If so, the damage would be covered under THEIR homeowner’s policy, not yours. If the tree fell due to obvious neglect, your liability insurance might apply.

Tips to File an Insurance Claim for a Fallen Tree

Take photos, preferably from different angles to show the damage.

If utility wires are involved, stay away! Call your electric utility to have the wires cleared.

Call your insurance agent or company to report the claim.

If there has been damage sustained by your home, call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest at 770-448-5782 and we will be there to help.

What is Considered a Storm Event

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

A storm event can affect a home in multiple ways. You can have a water loss caused by flooding, a tree through the roof or even shingles being blown off. Each of these situations can allow water to infiltrate your home. If this water isn’t dealt with in a timely manner, it can lead to mold. Mold can start within the first 48-72 hours of a water loss. Sometimes that time frame is shorter if the climate cannot be controlled by your heating or air and it is very humid and warm out. Sometimes that time frame can go a little further if the home is conditioned or it is cold and dry temperatures outside.

Most people hear storm event and think of hurricanes or tornadoes, but a storm event can be just a continuous heavy rain or strong winds or even hail. If you have water coming into your home and you are unsure if it was caused by a storm event or just need some advice, contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We are available 24/7 for any of your needs.

Emergency Readiness Plan

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be “Ready for whatever happens” by letting one of our Marketing Representatives complete an Emergency Ready Profile on your business or office site. The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it now. An Emergency Ready Profile will contain the following:

• Emergency Action Checklist

• Advanced Warning and Emergency Contacts

• Emergency Contacts

• Main Utility Information (Shut Off Locations)

• Primary Contact Information (Work Authorization Contact)

• Insurance Contact Information

• Miscellaneous Contact Information

• Property Overview
• Building Access Information

Not too long ago we completed an Emergency Ready Profile on a well-established funeral home, but no one in the office knew where the water cut-off was located. The next day when the owner of the funeral home was on site, he showed our representative the water cut-off. It was under a brick under some azalea bushes! Can you imagine the scope of water damage if the owner were absent and no one else knew the location of the water cut-off. Needless to say, he was delighted to have an Emergency Ready Profile. Now he can enjoy his vacations more knowing that his company has a written emergency plan and a digital one.

By implementing an Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you can benefit from SERVPRO’S 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 to get started.

SERVPRO Goes to Southern Loss

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast enjoys being with our agents, vendors and adjusters for the fall and spring Southern Loss Association Golf and Tennis Tournaments.   We usually sponsor two or three golf foursomes and a doubles tennis team. After eighteen holes and the tennis tournament finishes comes the best part for us. That is when we get to visit and mingle with our agent and adjuster friends and get to know them better in a more relaxed and informal way. Every season our group gets larger with more participants. We think that Southern Loss offers our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest a unique opportunity to network with a very large group of people who are involved in the restoration business. A lot of the Commercial contacts we have made for our franchise have been through the Southern Loss Association Golf and Tennis Tournaments. We will continue to be active in this organization.

SERVPRO Tips for a Commercial Water Loss

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

If you find yourself in a commercial disaster the first thing you should do is call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest at 770-448-5782 so that we can dispatch technicians out right away and we will make sure you get some help.

Tips until SERVPRO arrives:

• Shut off the water source if identified.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• DO NOT use regular vacuum to remove water
• Locate insurance information
• When we arrive we will do a very thorough dry out and complete it in a timely manner. We practice the science of drying...and we specialize in restoring your property. We are a "One Stop Shop" – Which means we are a company that can dry out your property, take care of your contents, and rebuild if necessary. Call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest at 770-448-5782, we are available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all your commercial needs.

SERVPRO Can Handle Your Fire Loss

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

A fire in home, fire in business or commercial fire damage can be a traumatic experience for any homeowner. When one experiences a fire in home, fire in business or commercial fire damage, it is pertinent to keep your composure and take all of the necessary steps to ensure that the life of you and other people are safe. In the aftermath of a fire, fire restoration services can assist in getting rid of the damage in your home. Companies that offer fire cleanup provide you with all of the services needed to restore your home.

After one experiences a fire damage from a fire in home, a fire in business or commercial fire damage, it is important to contact a fire restoration company immediately. By scheduling fire restoration services right away, you have the ability to minimize the losses, smoke damage, soot damage and the time needed for fire cleanup. You are also preventing a decline in air quality. The air quality deteriorates immediately after a fire. With better air quality, you are able to complete fire cleanup sooner. To begin the restoration process, a representative will ask a host of questions pertaining to the fire, smoke damage, soot damage, and fire loss. Fire loss refers to the items lost during a fire in home, fire in business or commercial fire damage.

When our franchises arrives at your home, they will begin the process by assessing the severity of the fire damage, smoke damage, soot damage, and fire loss. After the fire restoration company has completed their assessment, they will initiate the restoration process by removing smoke damage. The air quality is directly tied to smoke damage and soot damage. Thus, when the smoke damage is eliminated, the air quality improves. Due to smoke odors lingering long after fire damage, it is important to remove smoke damage first. Otherwise, it will make the fire loss more profuse and fire cleanup more of a hassle. During the initial phase of the restoration process, your home’s windows may be boarded. This is done to prevent additional damage from occurring. They may also place tarps on damaged roofs. The company will cautiously inspect to determine the severity of the fire loss, smoke damage, and soot damage. This gives the company the ability to develop a fire cleanup strategy.

The final phase of fire restoration is fire cleanup. The fire restoration company is trained to restore fire damage in a fire in home, a fire in business or commercial fire damage. After the fire cleanup is finished, your home should be as good as new. Do not hesitate to schedule fire damage restoration services right away. Restoration is the final step and it may vary depending of the severity of the fire. Restoration typically involves repairs such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet. In severe cases, it may involve major repairs such as the replacement of multiple areas or rooms in a home or a business. Call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest at 770-448-5782 for all your fire damage needs or questions.

Tips after a Fire Loss

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

We’re not going to kid you. Fire damage restoration is tough work. People call our franchises frequently to ask for advice on how to clean up after a fire.  Here are seven of the best tips we give people who ask about fire damage restoration.

Most people can put these tips into practice. But remember that fire damage restoration takes time, work, and skill. Realistically consider whether you want to try these ideas on your own or whether you’d be better off hiring a certified fire restoration team who will guarantee their work.

Remove Smoke Damage

With any fire you’ll have a degree of smoke damage to your walls, wall paper, and paint. If the smoke damage is not too serious, you should be able to scrub it clean with detergents and bleach. Soot from smoke damage is greasy stuff, so always try to dust as much of it off from a surface before trying to scrub the surface clean. Often, you’ll want to repaint, but make sure all surfaces are clean and dry before you paint.

Limit Activity & Other Simple Fire Damage Restoration Steps

Until your house is restored, limit your activity and movement in the house. This helps prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets. Keep people’s hands clean so you don’t further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork. Protect your things by placing clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas. Before you clean know the best cleaning method for that particular cleaning job (one example: Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.) Wash both sides of the leaves on your houseplants. Change your HVAC filter and tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

Get Rid of Mold & Mildew

Firefighters are great. They save many a live and many a home. But they do introduce mold and mildew into houses when they must use water to extinguish the fire. We highly recommend you hire fire damage restoration professionals to deal with mold and mildew. Mold and mildew can cause serious health problems. It’s difficult for a nonprofessional to know for certain if he’s clean up all the areas affected by the mold and mildew. And mold and mildew can contaminate your furniture, carpets, clothing, mattresses, walls, and vents. The best thing you can do immediately is to air out every room and clean out all vents and filters.

Replace Carpets. Clean And Dry Your Floors

Your floors and carpets end up absorbing the worst of the damage from all the water used to put out a fire. In almost every case, we would recommend that you pull up any carpets that have water damage and replace them. Water can also seep underneath vinyl flooring and into the cracks in hardwood. You must address this. If you have experience with flooring, you can lift it up and clean under it. Once flooring has been removed, you would need to dry the structure by placing fans and/or dehumidifiers. But you may want to call a professional fire damage restoration company to assist you.

Avoid Smearing Soot Into Clothing

Cleaning smoke damage from clothing is one of the biggest jobs you’ll have after a fire. Make sure you don’t smear the greasy soot into the clothing or just throw the smoky clothes into the wash. Often dry cleaning is the best bet, and you should ask around local dry cleaners to see if any have experience with post-fire laundry.

Scrub, Soak, And Cleaning Dishes

Dishes are also important items to clean thoroughly after a fire because they will be in contact with your food. Scrub all dishes well, let them soak in a solution of bleach and water (2 tablespoons of bleach per gallon) for at least 20 minutes and scrub some more for safety. When in doubt, if a dish, pot, or pan won’t come clean, cut your losses and throw it out – especially rubber or wooden dishes that absorb smoke.

Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 for all your needs.

What Is Mold and How Is It Remediated

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is found under the fungi classification. It is a soft green or at times grey growth which develops on objects or old food left for a lengthy period in warm, wet air. It can be found in outdoor and indoor places, thus, it is important for the indoor humidity to be kept below forty-five percent because a higher humidity supports the growth of this class of fungus. Floods and high humidity levels often lead to microbial growth and fungus. Microbial growth can be present in an area, but that does not classify it as mold. The most efficient method of controlling microbial growth is by the moderation of temperature. When the temperature is lowered, the rate of microbial growth decreases rapidly.

Mold and mildew are two fungi that people often tend to confuse. Mildew appears to be powdery and white in color then later turns to brown, black or yellow. The other fungus seems fuzzy but can appear in similar colors as the mildew. Mildew damages crops while molds damage the structural foundations of homes. Both fungi are usually accompanied by a musty odor which can lead to more health issues. It likes to thrive in moisturized areas and grows quickly into colonies with water exposure. These colonies are responsible for the production of irritants and allergens that affect the health of people. For remediation of molds to take place, all sources of moisture and water need to be addressed otherwise it may regrow. The first step is to remove all traces of moldy growth immediately. Five fundamental principles must be applied by homeowners and employers to ensure successful mitigation of this fungus. They should focus on the source and moisture removal, safety, contamination control and assessment. Proper mitigation is essential once the fungi are removed because areas must be monitored to prevent it from occurring again. It is important to determine the party that will be in charge of the mold cleanup. An environmental hygienist can determine what treatment can be used for this fungus. These hygienists mitigate the problem by sealing off the affected areas with plastic sheets to stop dispersion of the spores. Fungus should be dealt with by the wearing a face mask with high filtration and neoprene gloves. Once the mold cleanup is finished, the air around it needs to be cleaned using air exchange and scrubbers. It is essential for the environmental hygienist to have a protective suit because harsh chemicals are used for the mold cleanup. Hard surfaces with moldy growth have to be scrubbed with water and detergent and left to dry completely. Porous materials like carpets and ceiling tiles need to be disposed of by the environmental hygienists if they get moldy. The crevices of these porous materials are prone to mold growth, and painting can only happen once the environmental hygienists complete the mold cleanup otherwise the paint peels off. The correct mitigation strategies need to be employed for effective cleanup. Contact our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest at 770-448-5782 for more information on mold remediation.

Call SERVPRO for Mold Remediation Needs

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

When a home suffers a water damage event, a mold infestation can quickly arise and spread throughout a home in 48-72 hours. Because mold can produce allergens and irritants, you will want a professional that has training and experience to properly resolve the mold infestation. If you suspect that your Gwinnett County home or business has a mold problem, our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest can inspect, assess and remediate your property.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 770-448-5782

• Some restoration companies advertise “mold removal” and may even guarantee to remove all molds. This is a fallacy because removing all molds from a house or business is impossible; microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Here are the 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

Mold vs Mildew

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

How to determine which one you have?

Before anyone panics, let’s be clear. We live in the south, in a humid environment. Everyone has mold in their house. Everyone.

Mold and mildew have a few common characteristics. They both like warm areas and spread easily. They live on various surfaces, from food to your shower. And of course, they are both types of fungi.

But they are very different when it comes to size, color and texture.

Primarily mildew is a plant disease but it can thrive on any organic matter, not just living tissue. It can appear on clothing, leather, paper, walls, ceilings, floor and even on your shower wall. It usually grows in a flat pattern in a white, gray or yellowish color. It will turn brown or black over time.

Mold is usually fuzzy and appears in irregular shaped spots. It also can appear in many different colors – blue, green, yellow, brown, gray, black, or white. Mold grows on organic matter everywhere but is only visible once the colonies grow.

While most mold is not toxic, prolonged exposure can cause a variety of health issues. 

If you are not sure what you have, you can have it tested. Obviously the best course of action is to ask for professional assistance but you can easily identify which one it is with a little bit of household bleach.

Apply a few drops of bleach to the affected area. Wait about 5 minutes and inspect the spot. If it becomes lighter, you are dealing with mildew. If it remains dark, it is most likely mold.

The best and most efficient way to prevent mold and mildew in your house is to keep all areas dry and moisture free. Keep your air ducts clean and in good condition.

If you discover you have a mold issue call a professional. Do not try to remediate this yourself. Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 and we can help!

Call SERVPRO for your Commercial Needs

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage can be caused by things such as rain storms, broken pipes, humidity, faulty appliances or slow leaks. This can lead to mold or bacterial contamination if you do not have it cleaned up properly. A full-service property restoration company like our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South can help your business recover from water damage. We understand that the damage needs to be mitigated quickly to minimize the downtime your business is experiencing, and we have 24-hour emergency response, every single day of the year in Gwinnett County and the surrounding areas. Our team of technicians is IICRC-certified and will identify what is causing the water damage and will work alongside utility companies and commercial plumbers to make sure your building is secure against any secondary water damage or loss. We’ll also get rid of any debris and hazards and start extracting the water from your commercial property. Once we’ve removed all the standing water, our technicians will start the drying process of your structure using equipment and techniques which are state-of-the-art. If there is Category 3, i.e. sewage water, present in your building, our professionals, who deal with hazardous materials, will use antimicrobials to ensure your commercial building is decontaminated and to protect you and your staff against any health risks. Part of the water damage cleanup process includes our technicians using special treatments to avoid mold growing in your building. In cases of long-term moisture where mold is already found, our certified mold remediation specialists will clean and get rid of as much mold growth as is possible. We will also decontaminate your property to stop any more issues and we can work alongside certified environmental hygienists to give testing and clearances so you and your staff can have a peace of mind. Our team has the equipment and the staffing to take care of a commercial water loss of any size. We can help you recover from industrial plumbing failure and major floods to any other loss your commercial building might face If you’ve experienced a commercial water loss, speak with us at our franchise, SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South by dialing 770-448-5782 for a prompt 24/7 response.

Common Causes of Commercial Water Losses

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms.   However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings.  

1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency.  

3. Broken pipes and plumbing Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result.   

4. Backed up sewer lines This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings.   

If your business has suffered commercial water damage, our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast or SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southwest will get you back up and running again. Call us anytime 24/7 at 770-448-5782 for fast help.

When Storms Hit

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs to an already anxiety provoking situation. SERVPRO delivers the help you need swiftly even when a local disaster is widespread as we are able to call upon a network of over 1,650 franchises nationwide to respond if the need is great.   Storm damage can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues you face. Choosing our company puts in motion a vast support system, but our local ownership means you will receive a personalized approach to your particular situation, efficiently returning your home back to its pre-storm condition just “Like it never even happened.”   Placing your trust in SERVPRO for your storm damage needs will reap you benefits that less qualified companies simply cannot deliver. We use state of the art equipment to clean, repair and restore your home and in the process, we also restore your and your family’s peace of mind. Our technicians are highly trained and qualified, current in Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) for any procedure needed to bring your home back to the comfortable and comforting refuge you deserve. We also work closely with your insurance company, ensuring that all the work necessary is approved and compensated according to the terms of your policy. Our high standards and relentless drive to do the job on time while meeting local specifications means you and your family will quickly return to the quiet enjoyment of your house and neighborhood. We are not satisfied until you are happily back in your restored dwelling.   Once you make sure that your family is safe after a major storm, your first call should be to SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South. Dial 770-448-5782 24/7 and begin the road to recovery by scheduling an inspection with our storm damage experts.

After the Fire Trucks Leave

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call our franchises SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782.

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County Southeast, which is a 24 hours emergency service provider. Our representative will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch our IICRC Certified Fire Technician with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our Professionals will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the technician can board up missing windows and walls.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. They will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

They will clean all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. They’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Like it never even happened.

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

When it comes to fire & water damage, or specialty cleanup needs, it’s the SERVPRO brand that comes to mind. The SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South works endlessly to make sure our customers are happy. We have one objective in the aftermath of disaster: to make their loss “Like it never even happened.”

No matter the job or the size, our SERVPRO teams are ready to handle any size loss. With 1,700+ franchises nationwide, we have access to numerous highly trained personnel and thousands of pieces of equipment. Our SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Teams are strategically placed throughout the country to respond when needed. Our teams have a proven track record for success, assisting with the cleanup of floods, tornadoes, wildfires, and damages caused from frigid temperatures.

Whether it’s a major storm event, or faulty appliance, we will be there with one call. Contact SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 for any of your mitigation needs.

WHAT TO DO IMMEDIATELY AFTER A HOUSE FIRE

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

1. Ask whether it is safe to enter the home. Do not enter if the fire authorities deem it unsafe. They may establish a safety zone, but never assume a room is safe, until it has been cleared to enter.
2. Know who to call.
1. Contact family members and let them know you are safe and unharmed.
2. Contact your insurance agent. They will be able to talk you through the necessary steps, including proper documentation and emergency lodging and living expenses (keep all of your receipts!) The insurance company may assist in securing a company to help with clean up options.
3. You may request a fire mitigation company at this time for contents cleaning, structure cleaning, restoration etc. Contact SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782.
4. Another call may be to your landlord if applicable, and to your local American Red Cross. Our company is the preferred restoration partner to The American Red Cross.
3. Secure the property to prevent possible looting. SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South is available to assist with securing property/ Board Ups.
4. If water hoses were used to exterminate the fire, drying your home is critical. It is best to call the professionals at SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South to do water/ fire cleanups. Water can lead to mold damage if not dried properly. Our company is an approved restoration contractor for many major insurance carriers and adheres to the highest standards in the restoration industry.
5. Seek counseling if needed. Children and adults can feel a traumatic sense of loss and may need help to avoid a lasting sense of sadness and disorientation after a house fire. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. A house fire is a traumatic event and individuals need to be treated with respect and compassion by those close to the process of rebuilding.

WHY MORE INSURANCE AGENTS CHOOSE SERVPRO

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO blends customer service with accountability! They understand your responsibility to provide results to your shareholders and clients. SERVPRO is uniquely qualified to help when disaster strikes, making you their "hero" in their times of need. 

We are here to make you look good.

There are many ways to ensure success as an insurance agent. Having a strong office staff, a company who pays claims in an ethical and timely manner, advertising, being involved in your community, and maintaining a positive relationship with your clients are just a few. SERVPRO knows how critical it is that every job goes as smooth as possible, ensuring your clients trust you time and time again when they need help. Our teams are trained to reduce the lost time and mitigate the damages as quickly as possible. Whether it’s fire, water, mold or any other cleanup; we are here to help, 24 hours a day. 

Our team members are available for direct cellular calls 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. You earn your client’s loyalty by providing timely solutions. You provide help in a time of need. Instead of offering a call center solution, our team members are available to take the call on their business line! We will personally call your client back, offer a listening ear, and take away some of the fear they are experiencing.

Having a relationship with SERVPRO and our team of highly trained professionals has many benefits. We will ensure help arrives quickly (following our 1-4-8 time commitment), and our production team will help your clients regain control of their lives by treating them with respect, courteousness and working hard to get the job done correctly the first time. There are no unwelcome surprises with SERVPRO. Calling direct reduces wait times. The faster SERPVRO's team can arrive onsite to perform the cleanup, the better the results. 

That’s the SERVPRO difference. Contact us at the SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We are always here to help!

What Conditions are Best for Mold Growth

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

What Conditions are Best for Mold Growth?

Keeping mold from growing in your home is an important consideration for a healthy, safe environment to live. The first task in keeping mold at bay is discovering what areas and conditions might encourage mold growth. Molds are pervasive everywhere, and thrive in wet conditions. How does mold grow? Mold grows best when moisture and humidity are present. When mold spores encounter a damp surface most advantageous for fungal growth, they can begin to grow and thrive.

What Does Mold Need to Grow?

Mold spores require three things in order to grow mold:

• nutrients
• moisture
• time (mold growth can start after 24 hours

How Does Mold Grow in a House?

Mold spores are everywhere, and are carried by air currents. If the spores discover a moist, dark environment they will likely settle and proliferate until your home has a major mold issue. They key to preventing mold in your house is to be diligent about maintaining proper moisture levels, keeping up with home maintenance, like roof or plumbing leaks, and quickly and effectively cleaning and drying any water spills, leaks, or flooding.

Moisture Levels in the Home

The EPA suggests maintaining or reducing home humidity levels to 30-60% (ideally 30-50%) to prevent mold growth. Mold also grows optimally in warmer conditions, and flourishes the best between 77 to 86 °F (25 to 30 °C). Condensation on or around windows can be an indication that your home’s moisture levels are too high. Two ways a homeowner can decrease the humidity in the home is by increasing ventilation and buying a dehumidifier.

To increase your home’s ventilation, be sure to use correctly vented exhaust fans while in the kitchen and bathroom, to reduce the moisture in the air. Assure that ventilation throughout your home is adequate to keep up with moisture levels. If your home is still struggling with higher than advisable humidity levels, consider buying a dehumidifier to maintain a healthy home moisture quantity that is unsusceptible or resistant to mold growth. Make sure you purchase a dehumidifier that will cover the square footage necessary for your residence.

Leaks and Home Maintenance

If your home has a leak, there is likely a mold issue. Leaks can occur in pipes, roofs, basements, appliances and windows. Because leaks are usually undetectable behind a wall or in the attic, leaks can have the advantage of time to release water into your home continuously. This constant influx of water can fuel mold growth considerably. To look for leaks, be on the watch for:

• water stains
• warping or bowing of walls
• deterioration of wood
• bubbling or cracking paint or wallpaper
• mold symptoms (aka “sick building syndrome”)

Flooding and Other Water Damage

Flooding is a serious risk factor for mold. When excessive amounts of water enter a building and remain for a period of time, mold will begin to develop. Remember, mold can begin to emerge in 24 hours under the right growing conditions. Therefore prompt action is needed in the event of a flood to prevent or reduce mold damage in your home.

Flooding is a serious risk factor for mold.

You may wish to hire a professional like SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 to restore your home after a flood. This is a very good option if you can afford to hire someone who has the credentials and equipment to deal with flood and water damage in a home, or if your insurance provides you with this option. Be sure to check your home’s insurance policy on flooding and mold damage.

A Few Types of Storm Damage

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Wind Damage Restoration Hurricane damage sometimes includes severe wind damage. Roof damage in this situation may range from a missing roof, to harsh winds and rains shearing away asphalt tiles. Roof repair of obvious defects usually ensues in the wake of hurricane damage and storm remediation. Correcting roof damage may challenge homeowners after a disaster, since a roof leak may not appear obvious. How can a roof leak and roof damage escape easy detection in this situation? Wind damage may loosen flashing, eventually causing another roof leak weeks after the storm. Even a subtle roof leak of this nature can produce moist, moldy conditions inside the home. Obtaining fast roof repair may prevent long term interior damage. A wind damage home restoration expert may assist clients in receiving comprehensive roof assessments and roof repair services when hurricane damage afflicts an area. Their expertise helps property owners address storm damage and roof damage more effectively.

Flooding And Recovery Flood water frequently poses a risk in coastal areas. Yet heavy rains may cause river flooding miles inland also. If the surrounding terrain cannot absorb ground water, runoff contributes to flood water. Even residents of mountainous areas sometimes sustain varying degrees of flood damage if frozen pipes rupture. Flood pump failures contribute to basement flooding and contaminated ground water in some locations, too. Flooding may disrupt municipal water systems. Experts need to assess ground water and evaluate the condition of pipes following flood damage. By relying upon a trained specialist, you'll usually obtain faster storm remediation. These experts may suggest ways to help mitigate flood water damage in the future, for instance, by requesting backup flood pump installation.

Call SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 for any of your storm concerns.

Water Damage Mitigation in Gwinnett County

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South provides 24-hour fire, water and mold restoration services in Gwinnett County and the surrounding areas.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South 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 can be very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South 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 – 770-448-5782

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.

WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION PROCESS

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a restoration process that all clients are brought through. This process assures that the home or office is always restored to a clean, sanitary state as quickly and as efficiently as possible. SERVPRO clients have had this process applied to their water damage disasters.

The six-step process includes:

1) Initial contact

SERVPRO is proud to offer 24-hour emergency response. Here at SERVPRO, we understand that, when dealing with water damage emergencies, every minute counts. When you call, the representative will ask specific questions regarding your particular water damage emergency.

2) Inspection and assessment

The restoration process will officially begin with a detailed assessment of the damage by a certified professional. There are different classification levels of contamination that will determine what steps are required to complete the restoration.

3) Water extraction/removal

The water extraction process will remove the majority of the water from the home or office. If extensive restoration is needed, we can conduct a “move out” to safely and efficiently move out belongings. Our professionals will inspect and determine if carpet or carpet padding will need to be replaced.

4) Drying/dehumidification

After the water removal process, floors and walls will need to be dried and dehumidified fully to prevent warping or potential mold damage. Using specialized equipment, our professionals will remove the last trace amounts of moisture in the home or office.

5) Cleaning/sanitizing

After extracting the water and fully drying the surfaces, SERVPRO professionals will clean the surfaces as well as belongings like furniture and personal items that may have been damaged by the water.

6) Restoration

The final step in the process is restoration, which may include things like minor repair to drywall, installing new carpet, or other reconstruction.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South’s professional water damage restoration experts have been trained to strict industry standards, and use state of the art industrial equipment. It’s SERVPRO’s goal to make it seem, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 770-448-5782 for all your water damage needs.

Bio-Hazard Remediation

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

Bio-Hazard remediation is a solemn but necessary practice in the field of restoration. If you have ever had the misfortune to discover a deceased family member or loved one, you may not realize how important it is to inquire about forensic remediation services. Bio-Hazard remediation can be necessary to restore a home back to preloss conditions. The three main causes of forensic damage are: suicide, homicide, and unassisted deaths. An unassisted death occurs when someone expires and the body is not discovered for an extended period of time. If a body sits for an excessive amount of time, the advanced stages of decomposition set in. Unassisted deaths are unfortunately common and more damage to the home can occur the longer a body is allowed to decompose. 

The biggest reason to have a professional company to perform this service is safety. It cannot be stressed enough how important safety is when it comes to any environment that may deal with blood or other bodily fluids. First and foremost, blood is pathogenic. What that means is that any fresh blood has the possibility to make you sick. Technicians are donned in Tyvek suits, gloves, and full face shields. Having the correct personal protection equipment is crucial when handling any materials affected with blood. There are times when the bereaved enlist volunteers to help clean up the areas that wear little or no protective gear and are subjecting themselves to a harmful environment. During extreme cases, any illness obtained by volunteers could potentially hold the bereaved liable for damages. When you hire SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South, you don't need to worry about any such complications because we educate our employees to be certified in all restorative fields. Each franchise carries various insurances necessary for the restoration field.

            Another main reason to outsource this line of work to the professionals is to insure that you are receiving the most quality of service. Certified technicians will understand what types of materials are salvageable or not depending on how affected the areas are. When blood is pooled on the carpet, it is not safe to clean and sanitize the area. The most appropriate step to take is to remove the carpet and pad. Once the carpet and pad has been removed, the technicians will now address the sub floor. The sub floor will be cleaned and sanitized with an E.P.A. registered disinfectant and sealed with an antimicrobial sealer if necessary. There have been scenarios where the bereaved has tried to clean and sanitize porous materials such as carpet, but then have become sick in the future. If porous materials are only lightly affected by splatter instead of being completely saturated, they may be cleaned and sanitized. However, in many instances of cleaning and sanitizing, these lightly affected areas still leave an unsightly stain.

            After the damage has been assessed and the areas properly mitigated, any soiled materials are then bagged in bio hazard bags and properly discarded and hauled from the work site. A side effect of the deceased can be the odor. We have several different pieces of equipment that are designed to handle many types of odors, especially odors that are protein base. Once the technicians are completely finished, the affected area is now safe for the bereaved and will allow them to mourn properly without the added stress.

Please contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We are always here to help.

Emergency Ready Profile

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be “Ready for whatever happens” by letting one of our Marketing Representatives complete an Emergency Ready Profile on your business or office site. The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it now. An Emergency Ready Profile will contain the following:

• Emergency Action Checklist

• Advanced Warning and Emergency Contacts

• Emergency Contacts

• Main Utility Information (Shut Off Locations)

• Primary Contact Information (Work Authorization Contact)

• Insurance Contact Information

• Miscellaneous Contact Information

• Property Overview

• Building Access Information

Not too long ago we completed an Emergency Ready Profile on a well-established funeral home, but no one in the office knew where the water cut-off was located. The next day when the owner of the funeral home was on site, he showed our representative the water cut-off. It was under a brick under some azalea bushes! Can you imagine the scope of water damage if the owner were absent and no one else knew the location of the water cut-off. Needless to say, he was delighted to have an Emergency Ready Profile. Now he can enjoy his vacations more knowing that his company has a written emergency plan and a digital one.

By implementing an Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you can benefit from SERVPRO'S 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. Call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 so we can create your Emergency Ready Profile today!

Severe Weather Readiness

3/2/2018 (Permalink)

Are you ready for Severe Weather?

Severe weather is unpredictable and SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South wants you to be safe no matter the season! Below are some severe weather readiness tips to help guide you, no matter what type of disaster you may encounter.

Weather Radios: Weather radios are the most reliable way to receive notifications of severe weather in your area. Although cellular phones, weather apps, social media as well as wireless emergency alerts (WEA’s) are what the majority of us depend on to keep informed, the truth is those devices can have their limitations during severe weather and can be interrupted. Mobile devices rely on towers and those towers can be damaged and cease to function during severe weather. A weather radio, WITH CHARGED BATTERIES, is the most reliable way to be informed of severe weather. Be sure to properly program your weather radio so you only receive the alerts you want for the counties you want.

Emergency Supply Kit: Having an emergency kit can be a life saver. Most emergency management agencies recommend supplies for up to three days. The following is a list you can use as a guideline:

• Water – 1 gallon per person per day
• Food – non-perishable
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a weather radio
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries for radio and flashlight
• Frist Aid kit
• Whistle to signal help
• Clothing, blankets
• Dust mask or bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags, and duct tape
• Wrench or other tools to shit off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents. (Copy of insurance policy, bank account info, identification, etc.)
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in waterproof case
• Cash

Make family plan: Make sure all members in the household are aware where they are to go in the event of severe weather. If for some reason the family is separated in the event of a severe storm, have a meeting place established as to aid in finding each other amidst devastation.

Call SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We are here to help!

Basement Flooding

3/2/2018 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are 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 basement could flood, including:

• A sewer pipe that is blocked or cracked
• Surface water from heavy rains that can 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

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. 

Please contact the SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We are here to help!

When Winter Weather Strikes

12/8/2017 (Permalink)

Winter weather can lead to water damage, roof damage, broken pipes & ice damming. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South wants to make sure you are prepared for storms and know what to do in case you do have a damage! 

Tips for Preparing your Home for Winter Weather:

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes. 
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of the home. 
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shutoff valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to "off".
• If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shutoff. 
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage. 
• Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.  
• Tips for Preparing your Business for Winter Weather:

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and/or snow, can cause branches to fall which would cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.  
• Ask SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South about creating an Emergency Ready Profile for your business for any future or potential emergencies.  

If your Gwinnett County home or business experiences water damage, broken pipes or ice damming, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We'll make it "Like it never even happened." 

Dangers of Deep Frying a Turkey

11/15/2017 (Permalink)

Every holiday people are lured in by the promise of moist, sweet turkey meat and the deep turkey fryer has become an increasingly popular way to make a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.  However, cooking up Tom the Turkey in a vat of boiling oil does come with many dangers.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, every year deep-fryer fires are responsible for five deaths, 60 injuries, the destruction of 900 homes and more than $15 million in property damage.

Therefore it is most important to follow a few safety precautions if you choose to fry a turkey for the holidays.

• Don’t Deep Fry a Frozen Turkey

Frozen turkeys are full of moisture, and we all know how water and hot oil don’t mix well.  Make sure that your turkey is completely thawed before trying to fry it.

• Turkey Fryers can Easily Tip Over

Be sure that you place your turkey fryer on solid footing so that it will not tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.

• Don’t Let Oil Get Too Hot

When oil gets around 400-425 degrees it can catch on fire by itself.  Most fryers do not have thermostat controls, and it would be prudent to have a thermometer to make sure you keep the oil below 400 degrees.

• Don’t Use Too Much Oil

An overfilled cooking pot can cause oil to spill when the turkey is put in, and when the oil runs down next to the flame on the burner, a catastrophic fire could result.

• Never Deep-Fry Indoors or in a Garage

The best place to use a turkey fryer is on a level spot out in your yard away from the house or anything flammable.

May these tips help you and your family to enjoy a safe holiday with a delicious fried turkey. Remember to call SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South if you have any water, fire or mold problems during the holidays. Call us at 770-448-5782. We can help 24/7.

Celebrate Safely

11/15/2017 (Permalink)

Each November families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According the  National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries, and Thanksgiving is the leading day for home cooking fires, with three times the average number.  The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. 

Tips for avoiding kitchen fires:

• Be alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.

• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.

• If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.

• Keep anything that can catch fire – oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towel or curtains – away from stovetop.

If a fire occurs while you are cooking, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.

• Keep a lid nearby when you are cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

• If you try to fight the fire, be sure other are getting out and that you have a clear way out.

• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

• If the fire is out of control, just get out! When pou leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.

• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South and their professional team wish you a safe and happy holiday season.

SERVPRO GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY WITH SOLES4SOULS

11/3/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is giving back to the community through SOLES4SOULS

SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South along with many SERVPRO® Franchises are planning a drive to collect 10,000 shoes to help the poor.  The used and new shoes can be dropped off at schools and local churches.   We will be collected shoes between January 1, 2017 and March 31, 2017.

The shoes that SERVPRO® collects will be delivered to Soles4Souls—a not for profit global social enterprise committed to fighting poverty through the collection and distribution of shoes and clothing.  This organization which was founded in 2006 has distributed more than 26 million pairs of shoes in 127 countries.  SERVPRO® is a strong supporter of Soles4Souls’ anti-poverty mission, and we hope to take a big step in providing the organization with the used shoes they require to keep making a difference for people in need.

Soles4Souls will convert every pair of shoes collected from the community into a value-added social currency to achieve positive change, both humanitarian and economic.  Most of the gently used shoes will be distributed to microenterprise programs that create jobs in Haiti and other poor nations.  The resulting revenue will help fund the free distribution of new shoes in the U.S., Canada and developing nations around the world.

“The simple truth is that almost anyone with a closet has shoes they don’t wear, or an old pair that will just end up in a landfill,” said Neal Thompson.  “Give those to us, and know that you are taking a step to making the world a better place for all of us.”

Our SERVPRO® Franchises will be asking schools, faith-based institutions, civic organizations and corporate partners to partner with us in collecting shoes, new and old.  We in turn will send them to Soles4Souls for distribution to those in need.  Based in Nashville, Tennessee, Soles4Souls is committed to the highest standards of operation and governance.  Please visit www.soles4souls.org for more information.

MANAGING MOLD

10/31/2016 (Permalink)

Extensive mold growth on ceilings and walls.

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there is a water intrusion, like a leaking water line or roof leak. Mold can cause health issues and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, our SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a “typical” mold removal process:

• Call SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782 or 1-800-SERVPRO to begin the mold cleanup and restoration process.

Our professionals will ask questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources and personnel needed.

• Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources.

• Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold, like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area.

• Air Filtration

Special filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air using air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of the mold spores.

• Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatment s will be used to eliminate mold colonies, but sold-infested porous materials may need to be removed and disposed.

• Cleaning Contents and Belongings

Our SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals will clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains and other restorable items affected by mold.

• Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting and installing new carper or it may entail major repairs such as reconstruction.

Call the SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South at 770-448-5782. We are here to help!

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South is an IICRC Certified Firm

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South 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 Gwinnett County South

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South 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.

Faster to Your Stone Mountain, GA Water Loss

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South 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.  Our SERVPRO franchises arrive 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 – 770-448-5782

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.

Restoring Your Lawrenceville Commercial Property After a Water Damage Event

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events in Lawrenceville, GA 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 Gwinnett County South

SERVPRO of Gwinnett County South 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.

Discovering Water Damage in Your Home

8/1/2016 (Permalink)

Location for water supply valve under a toilet.

If you discover a water leak in your home, the first few minutes are critical.  The top priority is to avoid panic and focus on getting the source of the water stopped.  The most common water leaks in a home can be traced to the kitchen or a bathroom. 

Most all common water supplies in a residence have a cut-off valve nearby and all valves can be turned off with a clockwise turn.  If the source of the leak is your washing machine, the valves to turn off the flow are located behind the machine.  Do not disconnect the hoses.  Instead, turn off the water flow where the hoses are connected in the wall. 

In the kitchen, you will find shut-off values for the faucet under the sink.  This is also where you will most likely find the shut-off valve for an ice maker, if your freezer is equipped with one.  The valve that controls your sink is usually the same valve that provides flow to your dishwasher.  In a bathroom, cutoff valves are below the sink and may be within a sink cabinet if you have one.  The supply line for the toilet is commonly located under and behind the seat. 

A water heater can also be the source of your leak.  If it is a gas tank, turn off the gas supply first then turn off the water.  The water supply valve is usually located near or above the top of the tank.

Stopping the leak at its source as quickly as possible will minimize damage to cabinets, floors, walls and contents.  Within a single minute, several gallons of water can flow into your home and saturate anything in its path, including adjacent rooms. 

Some leaks cannot be stopped with an inside valve so the water supply to your house has to be interrupted.  Lines carrying water into your home come from a main line outside that can usually be found close to the street where your water meter is located. 

At SERVPRO® of Gwinnett County South, we are experts at mitigating water damages.  Our emergency services include extraction, removal of damaged debris, getting your home dry and providing you with the information and services you need to make water damage “Like it never even happened.”  Call us at (770) 448-5782

Summer Safety Tips

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

Happy 4th of July!

Summer is synonymous with vacations, barbeques and fireworks displays; but along with all the festivities are plenty of visits to emergency rooms—especially in July. Each year around 230 people are injured badly enough to require medical treatments after firework-related incidents, according to the U.S consumer Product Safety Commission. In addition to causing injury, fireworks are also responsible for thousands of house fires each year with millions of dollars in property damage.

There is nothing like firing up the grill during the summer months! Did you know, July is the peak month for grill fires? A backyard barbeque can become dangerous quickly if proper safety precautions aren’t considered. As your local SERVPRO professional, we want you to have an enjoyable and safe summer. Consider the following tips to help ensure your summer celebrations are disaster free!

-Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.

-The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and over hanging branches.

-Keep children and pets away from the grill area.

-Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.

-Never leave your grill unattended.

- When using a charcoal grill, let the coal completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

-Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear.

-Do not to try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire. Children should never pick up fireworks that may be left over as they may still be active.

-The Safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained professionals.