Recent Posts
MOLD-B-GONE
5/19/2023 (Permalink)
Mold is a common problem that can cause significant damage to your home and pose health risks to your family. Implementing preventative maintenance measures is key to reducing the growth of mold in your home. In this blog post, we present you with a catchy acronym, "MOLD-B-GONE," that encapsulates essential steps for preventative maintenance. And remember, if you need assistance, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Asheville, your trusted mold remediation experts.
M - Monitor Moisture Levels: Keep a close eye on the moisture levels in your home. Use a hygrometer to measure humidity levels regularly. Maintain indoor humidity below 45% to discourage mold growth. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas such as basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms to control excessive moisture.
O - Open Windows for Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial in preventing mold. Open windows regularly to allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home. This helps reduce humidity levels and prevents stagnant air, which can contribute to mold growth. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms to remove excess moisture and promote air circulation.
L - Leaks: Address Immediately! Leaks are a major culprit for mold growth. Act promptly if you discover any leaks in your home. Whether it's a dripping faucet, a leaking pipe, or a roof leak, fix the issue immediately. Repair leaks, replace damaged pipes, and patch up roof leaks to prevent water intrusion and subsequent mold problems.
D - Direct Water Away from Your Home: Ensure proper drainage around your home to prevent water from seeping into your foundation and causing moisture issues. Clean and maintain your gutters regularly to avoid clogs that can lead to water overflowing and pooling around your home's exterior. Proper grading around your property directs water away from the foundation, reducing the risk of moisture infiltration.
B - Bathroom Maintenance: Bathrooms are prone to moisture buildup, making them susceptible to mold growth. Take preventive measures by properly maintaining your bathroom. Use exhaust fans during and after showers to remove excess humidity. Wipe down wet surfaces, dry bathroom mats, and promptly fix any leaks or plumbing issues.
G - Get Professional Inspections: Regular professional inspections can help identify hidden sources of moisture and potential mold issues. Engage the expertise of SERVPRO of Asheville, who can perform thorough mold inspections, assess the extent of any existing mold growth, and provide remediation solutions tailored to your home's needs.
O - Optimize Airflow: Promote adequate airflow throughout your home to prevent moisture from settling. Arrange furniture and belongings to allow air to circulate freely. Keep closets well-ventilated by leaving space between clothes and ensuring proper air circulation. Avoid overcrowding items in rooms or storage areas to minimize the risk of mold growth.
N - No Moisture-Trapping Materials: Be mindful of using moisture-trapping materials in areas prone to dampness. Avoid wall-to-wall carpeting in basements or bathrooms, as carpets can trap moisture and provide a favorable environment for mold growth. Opt for moisture-resistant flooring options such as tiles, hardwood, or laminate.
E - Eliminate Excess Condensation: Condensation can lead to mold growth if left unaddressed. To reduce condensation, insulate cold surfaces, such as windows and pipes, to prevent them from attracting moisture. Use weather-stripping on windows and doors to reduce air leaks that can cause condensation. Utilize proper ventilation and heating systems to maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Call SERVPRO of Asheville for Help! If you encounter mold growth despite your preventive efforts, don't hesitate to call the professionals at SERVPRO of Asheville. Our expertise in mold remediation ensures efficient and thorough removal of mold, restoration of affected areas, and guidance to prevent future mold issues.
In Conclusion, by following the "MOLD-B-GONE" acronym for preventative maintenance, you can significantly reduce the risk of mold growth in your home. Implement these preventive measures, stay vigilant, and if you need expert assistance, remember to call SERVPRO of Asheville. Together, let's keep mold at bay and ensure a healthy and mold-free living environment for you and your loved ones!
Odor Removal Techniques: Restoring Freshness to Your Home with SERVPRO of Asheville
5/19/2023 (Permalink)
Unpleasant odors in your home can be a source of frustration and discomfort. Whether caused by smoke, water damage, mold, pet accidents, or other factors, lingering odors can affect your quality of life. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Asheville specializes in odor removal and restoration services that can help you eliminate unpleasant smells and restore freshness to your home. In this blog post, we will explore effective odor removal techniques used by SERVPRO of Asheville to ensure a clean and welcoming living environment.
Identify the Source: To effectively eliminate odors, it is crucial to identify the source. SERVPRO of Asheville's experienced technicians are trained to locate the origin of the odor, whether it's hidden within walls, carpets, upholstery, or other areas. By addressing the root cause, our team can develop a targeted approach for odor removal.
Thorough Cleaning and Sanitization: Cleaning is a fundamental step in odor removal. SERVPRO of Asheville employs advanced techniques and professional-grade cleaning agents to thoroughly clean affected surfaces. This process helps remove odor-causing substances and reduces the chance of odors lingering in your home.
Air Filtration and Ventilation: Improving air quality is vital in eliminating odors. SERVPRO of Asheville utilizes specialized air filtration equipment to capture and neutralize odor particles from the air. Additionally, proper ventilation techniques are employed to promote airflow, helping to dissipate odors and freshen indoor spaces.
Ozone and Hydroxyl Treatment: SERVPRO of Asheville may employ ozone and hydroxyl treatments to neutralize and eliminate stubborn odors. These advanced technologies effectively break down odor molecules, eliminating their presence and leaving your home smelling clean and fresh. These treatments are safe, efficient, and used in conjunction with proper safety measures.
Deep Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning: Carpets and upholstered furniture can trap and retain odors over time. SERVPRO of Asheville utilizes specialized equipment and techniques to deep clean carpets and upholstery, effectively removing embedded odors. This thorough cleaning process rejuvenates your soft furnishings and helps eliminate unpleasant smells.
Professional Deodorization: SERVPRO of Asheville offers professional deodorization services to ensure a long-lasting odor-free environment. The team uses industry-leading deodorizers that are specially formulated to neutralize odors at their source. These deodorizers are safe, non-toxic, and leave behind a fresh scent, restoring a pleasant atmosphere in your home.
Comprehensive Restoration: In cases where odors are a result of fire, water damage, or mold, SERVPRO of Asheville provides comprehensive restoration services. By addressing the underlying issues and treating the affected areas, we can effectively remove odors and restore your home to its pre-damage condition.
Unpleasant odors can disrupt your comfort and enjoyment of your home. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Asheville offers expert odor removal techniques to eliminate odors and restore freshness to your living space. By identifying the source, employing thorough cleaning methods, utilizing advanced technologies, and offering professional deodorization, SERVPRO of Asheville ensures a clean and pleasant environment for you and your family. Don't let odors linger—trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Asheville to restore the freshness and comfort of your home.
Making Fire Restoration "Like It Never Even Happened" with SERVPRO of Asheville
5/19/2023 (Permalink)
When you choose SERVPRO of Asheville, you can trust that your property is in capable hands.
Experiencing a fire in your home or business is a traumatic event that can leave lasting damage. The aftermath of a fire includes not only the visible destruction caused by flames but also the lingering effects of smoke, soot, and water damage. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Asheville specializes in fire restoration, going above and beyond to make your property "Like It Never Even Happened." In this blog post, we will explore the comprehensive fire restoration services provided by SERVPRO of Asheville and how we restore your property to its pre-fire condition.
Rapid Response and Assessment: After a fire, time is of the essence. SERVPRO of Asheville understands the importance of a rapid response. Our team of trained professionals is available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance. Upon arrival, we conduct a thorough assessment of the fire damage to determine the extent of the destruction and develop a detailed restoration plan tailored to your specific needs.
Emergency Board-Up: In many fire incidents, the structure of the property may be compromised. To ensure safety and prevent further damage, SERVPRO of Asheville offers emergency board-up services. This includes securing doors, windows, and openings to protect against intrusion and weather elements.
Water Extraction and Drying: In the process of extinguishing a fire, water is often used, resulting in water damage. SERVPRO of Asheville utilizes advanced water extraction equipment to remove excess water from the affected areas. We also employ industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to thoroughly dry the space, preventing further damage and inhibiting the growth of mold and mildew.
Soot and Smoke Damage Cleanup: Smoke and soot can penetrate surfaces and leave behind a lingering odor and residue. SERVPRO of Asheville employs specialized techniques and professional-grade cleaning agents to effectively remove soot and smoke damage from walls, ceilings, floors, and other surfaces. Our expertise ensures thorough cleaning, eliminating odors and restoring the appearance of your property.
Content Cleaning and Restoration: Fires not only impact the structure but also the contents within your property. SERVPRO of Asheville provides comprehensive content cleaning and restoration services. We carefully assess and inventory your belongings, determine which items can be salvaged and restore them to their pre-fire condition. This includes cleaning, deodorizing, and restoring furniture, clothing, electronics, documents, and sentimental items.
Odor Removal and Air Filtration: The lingering smell of smoke can be persistent and challenging to eliminate. SERVPRO of Asheville employs advanced odor removal techniques to neutralize and eliminate odors at their source. We utilize state-of-the-art air filtration systems to improve indoor air quality and remove airborne particles that may contribute to the lingering smell.
Full Reconstruction and Restoration: In cases where the fire damage is extensive, SERVPRO of Asheville offers full reconstruction and restoration services. Our team works to rebuild and restore your property, ensuring a seamless transition from restoration to the final touches. This comprehensive approach eliminates the need for you to coordinate multiple contractors, streamlining the process and minimizing the disruption to your life.
At SERVPRO of Asheville, we understand the devastating impact of a fire and are dedicated to making the restoration process "Like It Never Even Happened." With our rapid response, thorough assessment, comprehensive restoration services, and commitment to excellence, we go above and beyond to restore your property to its pre-fire condition. From emergency board-up to content restoration and full reconstruction, our skilled professionals handle every aspect of fire restoration with compassion and expertise. When you choose SERVPRO of Asheville, you can trust that your property is in capable hands, and we will work tirelessly to bring back the comfort and peace of mind you deserve.
R.E.S.T.O.R.E.
5/18/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Asheville is ready to R.E.S.T.O.R.E your home or business "Like It Never Even Happened".
R.E.S.T.O.R.E.
R - Rapid Response: SERVPRO of Asheville provides swift and efficient response times to mitigate damage and restore your home promptly.
E - Expert Team: Our skilled and experienced team of restoration professionals is trained to handle a wide range of restoration needs.
S - Superior Solutions: We employ cutting-edge techniques, advanced equipment, and industry-best practices to deliver superior restoration results.
T - Thorough Assessment: Our team conducts a thorough assessment of the damage to develop a customized restoration plan tailored to your specific needs.
O - Outstanding Customer Service: We prioritize customer satisfaction and provide exceptional service throughout the restoration process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
R - Reliable Results: SERVPRO of Asheville is committed to delivering reliable and long-lasting restoration results that meet or exceed your expectations.
E - Emergency Ready: We are available 24/7 and ready to respond to any emergency restoration situation, providing you with peace of mind during challenging times.
With SERVPRO of Asheville's services, you can trust that your home will be in capable hands, and that your restoration needs will be efficiently addressed.
4 Factors to Consider Before Buying Commercial Insurance
5/3/2022 (Permalink)
Key Elements to Consider When Buying Commercial Insurance
A reliable insurance policy can save your Swannanoa, NC, business if a fire ever causes damage to it. Before you invest in insurance, however, it’s crucial to ensure that you know exactly what to expect from your policy. Here are some of the key elements that you should consider when you make the decision to buy commercial insurance.
1. Location of Your Business
The area in which your business is located is a big determining factor in how much your insurance will cost. In many cases, the size of the city or town is directly related to its level of fire protection. Buildings in bigger towns and cities tend to have better fire protection and therefore require business owners to pay less for insurance. Smaller areas may lead to higher insurance costs due to poorer protection.
2. Safety
The cost of insurance is also determined by the building’s level of safety. A high number of hazards in a building usually translates to higher insurance costs. These higher rates are primarily due to the overall fire rating of the business. A low rating indicates inadequate protection, which means business owners will be charged more for commercial insurance.
3. Structure
The structure of a commercial building also plays a significant role in its fire rating. The way in which the building was constructed determines how vulnerable it is to a fire and the resulting damage. Relevant aspects of a building’s structure include:
- Materials (combustible vs. fire-resistant)
- Recent additions/remodeling
- Interior elements (e.g. wood floors)
The aspects of a building’s structure contribute to its overall safety and are therefore considered by insurance companies.
4. Availability of Fire Equipment
Making all of the fire equipment in your business easily accessible is crucial to the safety of your building and employees. Be sure that your fire alarms, fire extinguishers and sprinklers are up-to-date and functioning properly. It’s also vital to have an emergency plan in place that everyone in your business is familiar with.
Having commercial insurance is only the first step towards protecting your business. If you’re facing any kind of fire damage, don’t hesitate to call an emergency restoration company for help.
The Link Between Leaky Roofs and Mold Damage to Your Business
5/3/2022 (Permalink)
The formation of black mold in your Buncombe County NC, business is a serious matter, as it creates several problems, such as building damage, presence of hazardous spores and more. You will need to shut down all mold sources, including an undetected roof leak. Learn about how and when mold forms due to these conditions, as well as how to prevent it.
How Does Mold Form?
The conditions where mold starts are, unfortunately, very simple. Mold needs minimal requirements to feed, develop and thrive.
- Water or humidity
- Organic matter (carpet, wood, etc.)
- Dark, secluded places, such as an attic
When a ceiling leak takes place, humidity enters the location. If you do not fix the leak or dry the area, the humidity can lead to a mold situation in the commercial building.
How Long Does It Take?
Another reason to act fast in case of a leak is that most kinds of mold, including black mold, can grow and spread at a very fast pace. When the right conditions are fulfilled, it can take between 24 to 48 hours for growth to take place. Mold spores are everywhere, so the presence of untreated or constant humidity is enough to allow growth. Speedy treatment by mold remediation specialists can stop its development.
How Can Mold Be Prevented?
Cleaning your business to clean mold can be costly and time-consuming. Prevention is the cheapest and least disruptive method. Have a roofing contractor conduct a yearly inspection of the area to check for any repairable flaws before a roof leak happens. If leaks are already emerging, find the source and fix the problem with the assistance of a repair specialist immediately. Use a wet vacuum, towels or a dehumidifier to completely dry the area.
The existence of black mold in your location can harm your building and your reputation. Maintain your roof and search for leaks to stop mold before it starts.
How to Handle Water in Your Crawl Space
5/3/2022 (Permalink)
The crawl space under your home is probably not an area you visit very often. However, it should be inspected periodically to see if moisture problems have developed. A wet crawl space is something every homeowner in Biltmore, NC, should be concerned about. Keep in mind that “wet” can mean anything from slightly damp ground to standing water.
Determine the Cause of the Moisture
Start with the most obvious potential causes of moisture. Hopefully, you can identify the problem at this juncture. If not, continue investigating other, more obscure possibilities. Here are several things to look for:
- Weather-related flooding
- Clogged roof gutters or poorly positioned downspouts
- Running water near the crawl space opening
- Clogged drainage pipes
- Broken water or sewage pipes
Many of these causes can be determined by visual inspection. If necessary, get help to inspect areas inaccessible to you.
Take Appropriate Action To Remedy the Problem
Determining why the moisture problem exists is the first step in remediation. Next, you’ll need to apply the correct solution.
In many cases, a wet crawl space problem can be resolved by directing water away from your home’s foundation. Proper sloping and drainage are essential to ensure your crawl space stays dry. If your home is closely located next to a neighbor’s home, proper drainage along the fence line can also minimize the chances of runoff water seeping into your crawl space.
In the event of a flood, you may need a sump pump to remove standing water and direct it to an area away from your home. Less commonly, a break in the water line leading to your home or in the sewage line leading away from the home may require city crews to make repairs. Depending on the severity of the problem, the services of a professional cleanup and damage repair company may be needed.
A wet crawl space should never be ignored or minimized. Inspecting this area of your home on a regular basis can help you spot problems before they become serious and require costly repairs.
What Should You Do if a Pipe Breaks in Your Building?
5/3/2022 (Permalink)
Water damage to a Swannanoa, NC retail store
When you lead a company, you try to prepare yourself for anything. This should not only include comprehensive business strategies but also how to protect your employees and make the building where you work a safe place. Disasters such as fires, severe storms and floods can take a toll on people, equipment and the structure itself. If you discover bursting pipes in the office, you need to react appropriately to minimize damage and keep your operations running.
Causes of Broken Pipes
You may not spend much time worrying about the plumbing system in your Swannanoa, NC, building. However, if you neglect maintenance and upkeep, you could find yourself contending with bursting pipes and extreme water damage. The following can lead to these issues:
- Too much pressure
- Corrosion
- Frozen pipes
- Moving pipes
Identify the Location
Water damage in Swannanoa, NC is nothing to take lightly. If you discover water on the floors of your office, quickly find the source. If it's a pipe problem, shut the water supply off immediately.
Alert the Professionals
You may not have the time or skill to fix a broken pipe, but a professional water damage remediation team can take care of repairs, cleanup and restoration. You shouldn't wait a moment to get a crew on the job. Cleanup teams can usually respond to your workplace within a few hours of your call. A timely response will reduce the risk of mold growing in the area.
Stay Out of the Area
Ruptured pipes can present a hazardous situation to you and others in the building. Keep away from the water and let the pros take over. If you must be in the building, make sure you do not touch anything electrical if you are near the water.
Bursting pipes can spill a significant amount of water onto the floors and walls of your office. Stop the water and then rely on the pros to successfully complete the restoration process.
Protect Yourself when Grilling This Summer in Asheville
5/1/2022 (Permalink)
Homeowners in the Asheville NC area love to grill, but there are many dangers that come with all the outdoor fun.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments went to an annual average of 8,900 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues per year.
Here are a few ways to stay safe and prevent house fires while grilling:
Do -
1. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your house. Farther is even better. This includes portions attached to your house like carports, garages and porches. Grills should not be used underneath wooden overhangs either, as the fire could flare up into the structure above. This applies to both charcoal and gas grills.
2. Clean your grill regularly. If you allow grease and fat to build up on your grill, they provide more fuel for a fire. Grease is a major source of flare ups.
3. Check for gas leaks. You can make sure no gas is leaking from your gas grill by making a solution of half liquid dish soap and half water and rubbing it on the hoses and connections. Then, turn the gas on (with the grill lid open.) If the soap forms large bubbles, that's a sign that the hoses have tiny holes or that the connections are not tight enough.
4. Keep decorations away from your grill. Decorations like hanging baskets, pillows and umbrellas look pretty AND provide fuel for a fire. To make matters worse, today's decor is mostly made of artificial fibers that burn fast and hot, making this tip even more important.
5. Keep a spray bottle of water handy. That way, if you have a minor flare-up you can spray it with the water to instantly calm it. The bonus of this tip is that water won't harm your food, so dinner won't be ruined!
6. Keep a fire extinguisher within a couple steps of your grill. And KNOW HOW TO USE IT. If you are unsure how to use the extinguisher, don't waste time fiddling with it before calling 911. Firefighters say many fire deaths occur when people try to fight a fire themselves instead of calling for expert help and letting the fire department do its job.
Don't -
7. Turn on the gas while your grill lid is closed. NEVER do this. It causes gas to build up inside your grill, and when you do light it and open it, a fireball can explode in your face.
8. Leave a grill unattended. Fires double in size every minute. Plan ahead so that all of your other food prep chores are done and you can focus on grilling.
9. Overload your grill with food. This applies especially fatty meats. The basic reason for this tip is that if too much fat drips on the flames at once, it can cause a large flare-up that could light nearby things on fire.
10. Use a grill indoors. People often think it will be safe to use a grill, especially a small one, indoors. NOT TRUE. In addition to the fire hazard, grills release carbon monoxide, the deadly colorless, odorless gas. That gas needs to vent in fresh air or it can kill you, your family and pets.
In case the you experience a house fire, call your local fire department immediately. Be sure to contact a licensed fire damage restoration company to cleanup and repair any damage to your home occurs.
Why SERVPRO -IICRC Certifications
5/1/2022 (Permalink)
At SERVPRO of Asheville, NC, we believe that our employees can best serve our customers by being trained and knowledgeable in the services that we provide. We require our employees to go through SERVPRO’s corporate training program, but we also require them to get their certifications through various professional certification boards, such as the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Since the IICRC is the standard-setting organization in the cleaning and restoration industry, we’re proud to be certified members!
What is the IICRC?
Within the cleanup and restoration industry, the IICRC is one of the major industry associations that certifies technicians and sets the standards that restoration companies use in their day-to-day operations. Since the 1970s, this nonprofit has helped define terminology and set procedures for cleaning and restoring fire damage, water damage, mold, biohazards, and more. Most importantly, they have created universally accepted certification programs that help educate technicians and demonstrate proficiency. Many insurance companies also recognize the IICRC, so most restoration companies follow the organization’s standards and best practices.
Why We Are IICRC-Certified
It’s every restoration company’s goal to have IICRC-certified employees and to become a certified firm. These certifications are not only a good foundation for our employees, but it also lets our customers know that we’re current with the latest restoration practices. We make sure all of our crew chiefs are certified and up-to-date, so you can rest assured your property’s in good hands. If you do have a disaster at your Asheville Area home, SERVPRO of Asheville is available 24/7, so give us a call at (828) 255-4535!
24/7 Emergency Service
