Common Signs of Mold Growth

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you suspect mold is growing inside of your home, call SERVPRO of Douglasville 24 hours a day

Dealing with mold growth is something that no home or business owner wants to deal with, but unfortunately, mold can be a persistent thing. Mold spores are always present in the air so there is the threat of them finding a nice spot to land. Thankfully, mold can only grow and expand in conditions that are favorable to its needs.

One of the conditions that mold likes best is areas that are dark without a lot of airflow—and because mold spores are airborne, they can quickly find places that fit the bill. This means that mold often grows in areas that are not readily apparent or accessible, meaning it is important to be aware of the signs of mold growth so you know what to look for.

The Common Indicators That a Building Could Have Mold Growth

Persistent, Dank Odors

One of the most evident (and frustrating) signs of mold is the persistent odor it produces.

Because mold’s main function in nature is to help organic matter decay, the smell it produces is dank and pungent. If you notice a persistent smell in an area that does not go away or worsens with time, it may be an indicator that mold is present somewhere in the area.

Water Damage That Was Improperly Treated

Mold loves areas that are moisture-heavy, which means water damage can often turn into a

mold problem if it is not treated properly. Water damage can soak into drywall, carpet pads and other hidden areas, and if it is not fully and properly addressed, it can lead to hidden mold growth in these unseen areas throughout the home.

Black Spots on Clothing or Fabrics

Mold can often make its home on fabrics, so if you begin noticing that clothes in your closet or upholstery on your furniture begins to attract spots of mold, that might be an indicator that there is a bigger issue elsewhere in the building. Because mold is airborne, it can travel from the main area it has set up for itself and attach to other objects as it tries to spread.

If you have questions about mold or are in need of mold remediation, we are here to help. Get in touch today to learn more about our services!

Fire Safety Tips for the Whole Family

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Take fire prevention steps seriously, let SERVPRO of Douglasville get you prepared.

Fire safety is such an important thing for any household. House fires can be dangerous and traumatic, causing significant household damage and putting anyone in the vicinity directly in

harm’s way. Fortunately, fire safety is also a goal that the entire family can get involved with, keeping everyone more invested in safety and more prepared, just in case.

Many fire safety tips are things the entire family can participate in, which makes it a great family activity. Depending on who is in your household, it may be necessary to adjust some of these tips accordingly—for example, toddlers may have a great time drawing escape plans, while older kids may be more suited to smoke detector test duty.

However, we hope these general guidelines are helpful in getting everyone on the same page

for your home’s fire safety.

Fire Safety Tasks for Young Children

**Drawing an escape route.** Escaping quickly is key when it comes to a house fire, so an escape plan is a must. Young children can often be helpful here, drawing lines from each room

to indicate every exit.

**Being accountable for hazards.** Unattended candles, space heaters and cooking food can all be major fire hazards. Oftentimes, young children can make great safety accountability buddies,

calling out these hazards when they notice them.

Fire Safety Tasks for Older Children

**Checking smoke detectors.** Smoke detectors should be tested monthly, which can often be a great chore for preteens and teens in the home.

**Managing fire escape drills.** It is important to have a fire escape plan, and just as important to practice it regularly. Older children can be great at managing these drills, from planning them

out to debriefing as a family in order to see where there may be room for improvement.

**Cleaning out the dryer lint trap.** If your older children do their own laundry, it is important that they understand the importance of cleaning out the dryer lint trap. This is a commonly overlooked fire hazard, but the lint can heat up while the dryer is running and lead to a fire.

*If you have household damage due to a fire, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our fire restoration options or get in touch 24/7 for a rapid response

Our Commercial Fire Large Loss Restoration Services

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Douglasville to restore your commercial property after a fire has caused a large loss.

As a business owner, there are a lot of things to be concerned about when it comes to keeping the doors open. One important element of running a business is having a plan when disaster strikes and strikes hard.

Disasters can come in many sizes, but one that is perhaps one of the most concerning is what is called a “large loss” to your commercial property. A “large loss” is defined as a large scale loss that has a considerable financial impact to your business.

What can SERVPRO do about a large loss for your business?

Emergency Response. We have emergency services on deck 24⁄7 to answer the call for whenever you might need us. We will act immediately to contain the damage and start the repair procedure. We’ve worked with commercial organizations of all kinds for more than 50 years, and we are the experts in cleaning up after large-scale damage and getting businesses just like yours back up and running as fast as possible.

Treating the Damage. Our pros in green consist of licensed experts who have been educated in specialized procedures for removing water and treating smoke damage in your commercial property after a fire. Even if the bulk of your building has been affected, we work diligently to rescue what can be restored and detect issues that may be invisible to the untrained eye. Getting your business back up and running is critical, and we do our best to ensure the work is done correctly and thoroughly while working as quickly as possible. With our knowledge and industry-leading equipment, we’re able to do the most comprehensive job in the shortest amount of time.

When you call on SERVPRO for large-loss restoration services, you can count on consistent communication throughout the duration of the job, the highest-quality products and unmatched customer service. We understand the worry that commercial property damage may cause.

The subsequent difficulties caused by smoke, water from firefighting efforts and structural damage might make your business seem irreparable. You can put your confidence in our technicians, who will work hard to treat the damage, identify any objects that need restoration or replacement, and even coordinate with your insurance provider.

Allow SERVPRO of Douglasville to restore your commercial property after a fire has caused a large loss and interruptions to business. We are on hand 24⁄7, ready to take your call right now.

Storm Preparation Can Save Your Life

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville is available 24/7 to repair storm damage of any size!

When a severe storm warning is issued, you race to prepare, unsure of what to do first to keep you and your family safe. Preparing for storms ahead of time can keep you from having to rush to make a plan.

But with that in mind, 42% of Americans say they do not have an evacuation plan in place. A lack of preparation for an impending storm puts you at risk of the storm’s fatal effects.

Here are a few steps you should take ahead of time to prepare:

Develop a safety plan. The first step in storm preparation is to create a safety plan. Make a household meeting place and, in the event of an evacuation, know where you need to go. Make sure that everyone in your household is aware of any impending weather events and what they can do to stay safe.

Pack an emergency kit. Having an emergency kit on hand ensures that all of the essential items you may need in the event of an emergency or evacuation are all in one place. Items such as emergency food and water, medical supplies, flashlights, and a first-aid kit should be included. Keep your kit in a location where everyone in the house can access it when needed.

Prepare valuable possessions. Flood water can enter your home during severe storms, and if your belongings aren’t in a safe area, they might be ruined by water damage. Passports, birth certificates, family photos and any other items that are too important to lose should be stored in a plastic bag or a waterproof container.

Stay informed. Keep an eye out for local weather alerts to get ahead of any approaching storms. You can stay up to date on current weather events by listening to local radio and television stations. Make sure you understand the difference between a storm warning and a storm watch, as they require distinct preparation measures.

Find a safe place to stay. If you need to shelter in place, stay in your basement or an interior room with no windows. If you feel you need to find a safer place to shelter, you can search for a local mass care shelter to evacuate to. Wherever you find yourself during a storm, be sure to always bring your emergency kit.

When severe storms damage your property, quick action can prevent further damage. SERVPRO is available 24/7 to repair storm damage of any size ASAP

Your Partners in Business

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

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

When running a business, to say that it can be stressful at times is quite an understatement. As a business owner, you know how difficult it can be to have things always run smoothly. Major damages or accidents can cause major losses to a company, and that’s something we want to help you avoid.

That’s why you can count on SERVPRO to become your partner in the business world. We are locally owned and operated, and we will help you work through or recover from anything that can possibly take away from your business. Our goal is to help you and your business continue down the road to success.

Large loss recovery. The top cause of financial loss for businesses across the United States are fires, storms and flooding. These things can and likely will cause large amounts of damage, especially if you wait before dealing with the problem. That’s where SERVPRO can come in with our highly trained professionals to help get you on the road to recovery.

Emergency Ready Plan. Preparation is key, which is why you need to prepare your business before disaster strikes. We will help you create and put the perfect plan into place, so that when disaster comes, you know exactly what to do. There are specific things you should consider when planning, like having an emergency chain of command, alternate meeting or work sites, and how to handle restoration needs.

Cleaning of All Kinds. We can help you with any specialty cleaning needs you have, like biohazard removal, as well as routine cleaning needs like carpet cleaning or upholstery restoration. No matter what the messy issue is, we will come up with a solution to get it cleaned.

Restoration Services. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage or a small kitchen fire got out of hand, these things require cleanup and restoration services. SERVPRO of Thomaston, Forsyth & Fort Valley has all the bases covered, offering comprehensive restoration services for water damage, fire damage and storm damage, among other emergencies.

Industry Specialization. We have spent years learning about commercial enterprises, so we know that we can help anyone. We know the ins and outs of a variety of industries and stand prepared to handle those needs. Because we understand how important your business is, we will often enclose a work area during restoration so that your business operations aren’t disrupted.

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.

How Thorough Should My Business' Severe Weather Plan Be?

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

If you need to develop a Severe Weather plan for your business, call SERVPRO of Douglasville today!

If you have not yet done so, adding “create a severe weather plan” to your to-do list is a must as a business owner. Not only is an emergency action plan required by OSHA for all employers, but it is also a good idea for everyone involved.

Being prepared can keep you and your staff safer in the event of a severe weather incident, and can encourage everyone to stay calm in what can quickly turn into a chaotic scenario. However, if you are new to emergency action planning, you may be wondering how thorough your severe weather plan should actually be. While it is important to make sure all of your bases are covered, it is also important to remember that weather is unpredictable by nature and your plan should ultimately reflect that.

The Basic Outline of Your Severe Weather Action Plan

**Determine where everyone will go.** In the event of severe weather that strikes while staff is on-site, it is important that everyone stays put until the threat has passed. You will want to determine in advance what the safest area of your building is, as that is where everyone should go when the weather turns sour. Ideally, this will be a room at or below the ground floor of the building that is free from any windows or external-facing walls.

**Determine what everyone will need.** In the event of severe weather, a power outage is extremely likely. That is why it is important to create an emergency kit for your staff, stored in the area you will seek shelter. This kit should include flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies and anything else to keep everyone comfortable during a power outage. It is also a good idea to include food and water so no one will need to leave the area prematurely.

**Determine your communication plan.** Trying to communicate with employees during a chaotic scenario is less than ideal, so think in advance about how you will keep them updated. Communicate the severe weather protocol in advance, and ensure that everyone knows exactly what to do if there is an imminent threat.

*If your building is damaged by severe weather, you can count on us. Get in touch today to learn more about our restoration process.*

SERPVRO assists with large commercial loss

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

If your company encounters any damage to your property, call the experts at SERVPRO of Douglasville.

Floods, fires, blizzards and other extreme weather disasters or workplace incidents may cause enormous damage to warehouses, offices, retail shops and other commercial structures.

Flooding and fire disasters are two of the most common causes of severe economic losses.

COMMERCIAL WATER DAMAGE. Commercial water damage from flooding or other events can be devastating and costly. According to the U.S. government, the average commercial flood claim in the past five years has been around $89,000. Flooding may cause major damage to flooring, building material and drywall, putting the structure at danger. Furthermore, valuable and essential machinery and electronics may be damaged.

When you call SERVPRO, we will arrive as soon as possible to begin removing flood water and prevent it from spreading and creating further damage and difficulties.

SERVPRO professionals are highly trained and prepared to remove huge amounts of standing water and excess moisture from commercial buildings. We can also dry and repair construction materials, documents and electronics that have been damaged.

Our skilled water removal equipment can remove large amounts of standing water, while our cutting-edge drying equipment can remove excess moisture from any afflicted areas of the property. We can restore any of your essential devices (computers, TVs, monitors and so on) and assist in the recovery of lost data if they are damaged. We may also provide comprehensive restoration services if any structural aspects of your building are affected.

COMMERCIAL FIRE DAMAGE. Another disastrous catastrophe that might happen in a business environment is a fire. When they occur, they usually spread swiftly and do significant damage to the property and its contents.

Because damages are caused not only by the fire itself, but also by soot, smoke, firefighting attempts and other byproducts, there is more to clean and restore than the building itself.

We clean up and repair all affected areas after a fire through highly specialized solutions. As well as repairing any structural damage caused by the fire, we can also repair items that have been harmed by soot, smoke or water damage from firefighting efforts as much as possible.

While fires and floods are two of the most prevalent calamities that companies and organizations encounter on their property, there are still a plethora of other large loss events that we can handle. If you are a company owner who has encountered a damaging incident on your property, call SERVPRO of Douglasville and we’ll respond to your emergency immediately.

The Sights, Smells, and Sounds of Water Damage

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

?If you suspect water damage in your home, call SERVPRO 24 hours a day.

Water damage can hide for a little while before revealing itself in your home, but it can only hide for so long. Depending on the type and location, it may be a matter of a few minutes, hours or days before you notice something’s going on, but eventually the water will collect itself somewhere or affect something you can’t help but notice.

Let’s look at the most common ways you can catch a leak in the act, and hopefully put a stop to it before it becomes a full-blown problem.

Spots. They call those fraud protection overlay images “watermarks” for a reason. One of the absolute telltale signs of water damage is noticing dark or wet spots on your ceiling or walls, both indicative of a leak from above. These can let you know there’s a problem on the roof or in the attic, or something happening with a pipe inside the wall.

Paint or drywall that flakes or bubbles. Paint can’t cover a water leak for long—eventually it will show in the form of cracking, bubbling or flaking. And drywall will expand, crack or otherwise fluff up as it becomes damp. (It will also weaken significantly.)

Puddles and pooling water. You clean up a puddle in the floor or under a cabinet, or you dry a wet spot in the carpet, only for it to come back. Uh oh. There’s something under there causing water to pool up and seep through.

Running water sounds. Like we said, water leaks can hide for a while before they become visible. But a keen ear in a quiet moment might help you catch something going on. Be on the listen-out for the sound of running water inside the walls when no plumbing is in use. You should also heed sounds like bubbling, gurgling or whistling from your water heater or plumbing in general.

Moldy smell. A musty, pungent odor can be a dead giveaway that moisture has gotten out of control or that water damage is evident in a basement or bathroom. If you catch that signature smell, mold is already growing and you need to take action.

Your utility bill. If your home doesn’t tell you about hidden water leaks, your utility bill may. If you notice an uptick without explanation, it could indicate a hidden leak—for example, a puncture or root invasion in an underground pipe that could lead to serious foundation problems.

If leaks lead to water damage, you’ve got a friend in the restoration community. Call SERVPRO to get yourself safely back in the dry.

Tips for Recovering After a House Fire

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

House fires trend to peak during the winter. SERVPRO of Douglasville is available 24/7 in the event of an emergency.

No one likes to think about suffering a loss like a house fire, but it’s a reality for millions of American families every year. House fires aren’t a seasonal risk to your home, but they do happen more frequently during the winter months.

If your family suffers a house fire, even one that does extensive damage, you can take steps to recover what you can from your home and recover emotionally, too. These tips can help you start the restoration process and help you deal with the aftermath of a house fire.

Taking the First Steps

The American Red Cross offers the following tips to help you in the immediate aftermath of a house fire.

After you’ve gotten everyone out of the house and treatment for any injured people or pets, then these are your next steps:

Let your loved ones know you’re safe. This is an important step, especially when news of a fire or issue can spread quickly.

Don’t go back into your home until it’s secured. The authorities will let you know when it’s safe to go back to your house. Please don’t go in there before because it can be unsafe.

Get in touch with your insurance company. You’ll want to let them know what happens to get the restoration process started.

Tips for Dealing With Emotions

It’s normal to feel a wide range of emotions after your home suffers a fire. They can range from grief to anger to depression. The American Psychological Association offers this advice to help you begin the process of recovering emotionally.

Find ways to reduce your stress. That can include exercise, meditation and deep breathing.

Don’t make major life decisions. It’s smart to avoid switching jobs or making other major choices while dealing with these complicated emotions.

Talk about your feelings. Whether you choose a therapist, family members or a close friend, it’s smart to talk to someone about what’s going on.

Don’t set expectations. There is no way you “should” be dealing with these issues. Instead, do what you can and be kind to yourself.

Take good care of yourself. Eat balanced meals and get plenty of sleep. It will help you better deal with a stressful situation.

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.

What Is Your Business’ Storm Readiness Plan?

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

If you need help preparing a safety plan for your business, contact SERVPRO of Douglasville today!

A severe storm is an unpredictable thing—with atmospheric uncertainty and ever-changing conditions, the timeline and severity of a storm can often be in question until the moment it moves into an area.

However, this uncertainty is not an excuse to not be prepared. In fact, it is all the more reason for business owners to put a plan into place. Not only does OSHA require all employers to draft a written emergency action plan to comply with their standards, but it is also a good idea from a practicality standpoint. Below, we will take a look at some key elements of your storm readiness plan to include so you can keep yourself and your employees as safe as possible should the weather turn dangerous.

What Do I Do for My Business’ Storm Readiness Plan?

**Create an emergency kit in case weather strikes on the job.** Unfortunately, storms never adhere to a convenient schedule, meaning the odds are high that one may strike while everyone is actively in the office. If this is the case, keeping everyone safe and comfortable is top priority while you wait for the storm to pass. An office emergency kit, which should include food, water, flashlights and a weather radio at minimum, will keep everyone comfortable should the power go out and require you to stay put until the threat is over.

**Communicate with your employees.** Trying to communicate instructions and convey new information in a stressful scenario is never ideal, so take this opportunity to communicate with your employees in advance so they are aware of the severe weather protocol. Let them know what your plan is, where they should seek shelter in bad weather and what to expect in an emergency scenario.

**Protect your business’ data.** Because most things are digital now, rain can be quite dangerous to business data. Be sure that your data is backed up, either on an external hard drive or in the cloud, so it can be retrieved even if key computers get water damage due to severe weather.

*If your business sustains damage due to a storm, we are the team to call. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help.*

The 411 on Commercial Water Damage Prevention

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

If your business is affected by water damage, reach out to your local restoration expert SERVPRO of Douglasville.

Water damage is often unanticipated and comes in all shapes and sizes, whether it is caused by a flash flood, a burst pipe or a leaky roof. No matter if it is pooling water in your ceiling that can go unnoticed or you’re standing in water up to your knees, water damage can cause significant untimely and costly interruptions to your operations.

In many circumstances, however, preventive measures can be taken to avert severe delays or property damage. The following are a few recommendations to inspect and prepare you in protecting your facility from water damage:

Check for plumbing issues. One indicator of plumping issues could be if you’ve observed a substantial increase in your water bill, a pipe or plumbing equipment is almost certainly to fault. You can check your walls, floors and ceilings for indications of leaks. Discoloration or mildew development is also a reliable indicator that a pipe is damaged or leaking. Whatever you discover, be certain to get it repaired as quickly as possible.

Install a water-sensing device. You can find water sensors available at practically any home improvement store. The devices provide alerts or alarms in the case of a water leak, allowing you to contain the damage and respond quickly. The majority of sensors may be connected to your smartphone or integrated with your facility’s security system, enabling you to get alerts even while you’re not on-site.

Look at the windows and doors. Water making its way indoors from outside during storms or rain is another frequent cause of water damage. Examine the area surrounding your windows, doors and any other exposed locations. Be sure to reseal any gaps or cracks using caulking that is waterproof. Additionally, refinish window or door trim to provide additional protection against decaying seals and trimming.

Regularly inspect the roof. Have an expert inspect your roof to discover places that might leak. Different types of roofing may need different treatments such as sealing on a regular basis to provide an additional layer of protection. Additionally, remember to clean the gutters to ensure that rainfall flows easily away from the roof. Take note of locations that are prone to drainage problems. Along the outside your building, be sure to look for spots that may be prone to water accumulation if the ground gets too wet. Consider getting the help of a landscaper or drainage specialist to do an inspection of the area and provide proper draining.

If your business is affected by water damage, enlist the help your local experts at SERVPRO of Douglasville. We are here to help 24⁄7 whenever disaster might strike.

Understanding Fire Sprinkler System Requirements for Commercial Spaces

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

If your business is damaged from a fire, trust the experts at SERVPRO of Douglasville to make it "Like it never even happened."

If you own a business or other type of commercial space, fire safety is extremely important. Not only is adhering to fire codes a must to allow for your continued operation, but it is also key that you do everything you can to protect your staff and your customers who are working and doing business inside the space.

Preparations can also reduce the impact of a fire, and given that over half of businesses are not able to recover after a fire emergency, doing what you can to reduce a fire’s impact is a prudent move.

One vital element of safety and harm reduction is a fire sprinkler system. While fire sprinklers are not *always* required in commercial buildings, they are more often than they are not—and even if they are not required in your specific situation, it is likely worth having them installed given that sprinklers are effective in stopping 88% of commercial fires when they are installed.

How Do I Know if I Need Fire Sprinklers in My Commercial Space?

While every area will have local fire codes for businesses that may vary, some of the national guidelines are included below:

* Fire sprinklers must be installed in any new commercial building exceeding 5,000 square feet, or any building that is renovated to contain 5,000 square feet after construction.

* Buildings more than 55 feet in height must have fire sprinklers on every floor.

* Self storage buildings must have fire sprinklers installed, except in single story facilities with no indoor corridors.

* If the municipal water pressure to the building is not adequate to pressurize the sprinkler systems, a fire pump should also be installed.

If you are unsure about whether you need a sprinkler system in your commercial space, or you have questions about the system you have, your local fire department will likely be able to connect you with the right person to make an assessment. In addition to installing fire sprinklers, they can help you determine if your fire escape routes, fire exits and fire extinguishers are up to code as well.

If your business is damaged from a fire, we can help. Contact us today to learn more about our commercial restoration services for businesses impacted by fires, floods and more.

Do You Have a Plan for Staff Safety in Severe Weather?

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

If you need help developing a storm safety plan, call SERVPRO of Douglasville today!

Severe weather can be an extremely dangerous thing. Not only is it often unpredictable, but it is also quick-moving—meaning waiting to prepare when it becomes imminent can put you in harm’s way.

If you are a business owner, preparing in advance is even more important, as it will help you keep both yourself and your staff safer in the event of weather concerns.

If you have not yet put together a plan for severe weather, now would be the time to do so. Not only is it a requirement from OSHA that you have an emergency action plan in place, but it is also a smart way to keep everyone calm and comfortable even when the weather goes south. There are a lot of key elements in emergency planning, but below, we will focus specifically on some things to consider to keep your staff safe.

How to Keep Your Staff Safe During Severe Weather

**Make planning a collaborative process.** Having an emergency action plan is great, but it does not do much good for your organization if no one is aware of what the plan is. Make sure you include your staff in the planning process and keep them aware of what protocols to follow should severe weather become imminent.

**Make sure everyone’s needs are accounted for.** It is a good idea to pack a general emergency kit for your workplace to cover things like flashlights, first-aid supplies and general items to keep everyone comfortable in the event of a power outage. However, you should also encourage staff to have their own personal emergency kits that meet their needs—that way, if there is an emergency scenario, they will have access to necessities such as medication and personal items.

**Make it clear where everyone should go.** In the event of a severe weather event, you and your staff will need to seek shelter on-site until the threat passes. Be sure you have a safe area clearly identified so staff know exactly where to go. This area should not have any windows or external-facing walls, and ideally will be at or below the building’s ground floor.

*If your building has damage due to severe weather, we are the team to call! Contact us today to learn more about our storm restoration practices.*

Why Choose SERVPRO When Your Home Needs Reconstruction

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

When damage happens at home, we’re ready to jump into action. Contact SERVPRO of Douglasville to get help right away.

Not all emergencies are created equal. Sometimes the extent of a restoration need is to have carpet professionally dried, furniture restored or mild smoke smell removed—all things that are certainly within our capability.

But some emergencies take a bigger chunk out of your life, ruining whole areas of your home—your subfloor, drywall and even your framework. It’s in these times that you’ll be glad to know you’ve got a team on your side who can not only handle the cleanup, but also perform any necessary reconstruction, to restore your home to its original, preloss state.

Our first aim is restoration. We want you to be able to keep your original possessions, and we’ve got both modern and time-tested techniques to get them dried, sanitized and ready for use again.

But when something more is needed—when an electrical fire eats away your walls from the inside, for example—we can take care of everything, start to finish.

When you choose SERVPRO of Gordon, Murray, & South Whitfield Counties for reconstruction, that means all your needs are cared for by one team, with clear communication, synergy and expertise. You’ll have a faster, easier and more effective recovery time, plus the peace of mind knowing it’s all being handled by the industry leader with over 50 years’ experience in the field. And your insurance company will love you for keeping things simple.

Reconstruction requires expertise, because existing parts of your home have to be properly fitted to match reconstructed areas, which are built in or rebuilt to replace damaged ones. It’s not an easy task to make it look natural and seamless, but your SERVPRO of Douglasville team is up for the challenge.

Considering the widespread damage that can happen to your home because of a few inches of floodwater, it’s easy to see why reconstruction can become necessary. But you can rest easy knowing that should the need arise, your friends at SERVPRO of Gordon, Murray, & South Whitfield Counties have the expertise, tools and teams available around the clock to get your cleanup and reconstruction handled quickly, safely and completely.

When damage happens at home, we’re ready to jump into action. Contact SERVPRO when reconstruction and recovery are needed after water damage, fire or mold outbreak.

Potential Spring Weather Hazards Across The Country and Close to Home

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to the possibility of severe weather. SERVPRO of Douglasville is a click away if you experience any damage.

The United States is the third largest nation in the world, coming in behind Russia and Canada based on land mass.

When you have such a large geographical area encompassed in one country, “spring weather” season can have a much different meaning depending on where you are. There are all types of different weather events, which means there will also be different weather threats.

With spring right around the corner, read on for a look at what different parts of the country can expect, weather-wise.

First, let’s take a look at the Pacific Northwest region. The residents here experience heavy rainfalls during the spring months, causing flooding and water damage. There are areas with high elevations that may be dealing with a different type of wet weather—remnants of snow or ice melting, which cause problems of their own.

Now looking at the Upper Midwest and Northeast regions, these regions basically don’t know the difference between winter and spring! This region experiences winter weather to the fullest, dealing with snowstorms and blizzards all the way until early summer at times.

Then you have people living on the West Coast who don’t even know what winter weather is, as it’s almost non-existent in this area. Rather than blizzards or snow, they are dealing with excessive heat waves. These heat waves can endanger the lives of those living in the area, and they also contribute to wildfire conditions.

When you get to the middle part of the United States, you will notice that from Iowa to Texas they are dealing with dry, windy weather! Things like wildfires, windstorms and derechos are just a few of the weather hazards this area faces during spring. Not to mention an area that is named “Tornado Alley” is in this region as well.

Then you have the Southeast region, where we are located. We see spring as a wonderful time of the year; however, we do experience our fair share of weather hazards. Intense thunderstorms and even tornadoes are common this time of year. And states that border the ocean also have to look out for rip currents and early-season hurricanes.

So, what’s the point here? No matter what “spring weather” looks like in your neck of the woods, there are always weather hazards! That’s why despite of where you live, you will need to be prepared for any kind of weather event.

If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.

SERVPRO's Process for Fire Restoration

4/2/2022 (Permalink)

When your home or business endures fire damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Douglasville from start to finish.

After a fire strikes your home or business, you’re left with damage from the fire as well as water saturating everything from the firefighting efforts. None of that would be a surprise to our experts here at SERVPRO, as we have the specialized fire restoration expertise to return your house to its pre-fire state.

Every fire damage situation is unique and necessitates a unique remedy, but the overall procedure remains the same. The following is how we will handle a “normal” fire damage situation.

Initial contact. We are on call 24 hours a day and seven days a week, including all holidays. Disaster doesn’t wait for office hours to strike, and we don’t wait to respond. When you contact us, the restoration procedure starts. Our experts will ask a number of questions about the fire damage so that we can get started immediately with the necessary equipment and resources.

Inspection. To establish the degree of the fire, water, smoke and soot damage, we will thoroughly check and test every room. By doing this, we are able to formulate the proper strategy. Fires can cause the air quality to be unsafe, so it’s important not to re-enter the property until experts have determined it is safe to do so.

Water removal. If there is water damage present as a result of firefighting efforts or sprinkler systems, we will begin the water removal procedure immediately to ensure the bulk of the water is removed. If there is any remaining water, it will be removed using dehumidifiers and fans, and the drying process will begin from there.

Cleaning. SERVPRO removes smoke and soot from ceilings, walls and other surfaces using highly specialized state-of-the-art equipment and processes. We’ll clean up all of the fire-damaged items and areas that can be cleaned and repaired. We will also work to return your possessions to their pre-fire state by applying a number of cleaning processes. We can clean and restore electronics, documents, upholstery and more. We also specialize in industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment to eliminate odors.

Restoration. If during the cleaning process we determine that certain areas of your property cannot be cleaned, we also provide comprehensive restoration and rebuilding services. Restoration and rebuilding efforts include everything from modest repairs like drywall replacement, painting or carpet installation to substantial repairs like the complete rebuilding of different areas or rooms in your home or property.

When your home or business endures fire damage, you can trust that SERVPRO of Douglasville will be ready to be a helping hand and will get your home restored quickly and thoroughly to its pre-fire condition.

Tornadoes 101

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

Spring storms can cause major damage to your property. If you experience any damage reach out to SERVPRO of Douglasville.

Georgia is prone to severe weather of all types but is particularly prone to thunderstorms and tornadoes. All of Georgia is prone to tornadoes throughout the whole year, but they are most likely to occur from March through May and peaking in April.

When there is severe weather, be sure to keep a close eye on how the weather changes and know how to identify tornadoes. Tornadoes are often accompanied by thunderstorms and can develop quickly, so it’s important to have dependable ways to get updates about storms by turning on your radio or TV, or by having notifications on your phone for weather alerts.

A tornado watch means that there hasn’t been a tornado sighting yet, but the weather is favorable for them to happen.

Once a tornado watch is issued, it’s important to stay notified through the tornado warning system in your area, stay tuned to local radio stations or an NOAA radio or have notifications on your mobile device for weather updates.

Most tornado-prone areas have an outdoor siren system. Know how to distinguish between the siren’s warnings for a tornado watch and a tornado warning.

A tornado warning is sent out as soon as a tornado has been spotted or shown on the weather radar. You should seek shelter as soon as a tornado is on the way.

Some tornadoes come quickly and without warning, so it is important to know what to look for. Signs that a tornado may be approaching include:

• A rotating funnel-shaped cloud
• Dark or green-colored sky
• Large, dark, low-lying cloud
• Hail
• Loud roar that can be compared to a train

If a tornado is heading your direction, it’s important to take shelter immediately in the lowest indoor area of whatever building you are in, away from windows. The best places to go are basements and cellars, but hallways or other windowless, centrally located areas are good, too.

If you are outdoors, find a place to take shelter, but if that is not possible, find a ditch and lay face down, covering the back of your head and neck with your hands.

Tornadoes and other severe storms can cause serious damage to your property. If your property is damaged by a storm in any way, SERVPRO of Douglasville has you covered. We are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week so we can begin the restoration process immediately.

Keeping Track of Fire Safety at Your Business

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

If you are dealing with the aftermath of a fire at your business, you can depend on SERVPRO of Douglasville.

For business owners, there are few things more important for the safety of you and your staff than ensuring you have the right fire protections in place. Fires can be absolutely devastating for businesses, with over half never being able to recover after the damage—but fortunately, there are plenty of ways to decrease the likelihood that you will ever experience a fire at all.

All businesses are subjected to certain fire codes set forth by the National Fire Protection Association, which provide a great guideline for making sure you are being as safe as possible. In addition to adhering to fire codes when you are first starting out, it is also important to make sure you are regularly auditing your fire safety efforts to be sure nothing slips through the cracks. Below, we have listed out some helpful tips for doing just that.

Keeping Track of Your Fire Prevention Efforts in the Workplace

Make sure you have enough (working) fire extinguishers. It is required that all commercial spaces have fire extinguishers on the premises, though how many and where they are located will vary depending on your specific situation. That being said, it is important to check your fire extinguishers regularly—while they do have a long shelf life, there will be an indicator on each one that will let you know if it is time to be replaced.

Check or install commercial sprinkler systems. While not every business is required to have a sprinkler system, they can be a great investment for any commercial space. Sprinkler systems are extremely effective at stopping fires quickly, so even if your business is not technically required by codes to have them, it might be worth considering having a sprinkler of some sort put into place.

Be sure you are reviewing fire safety with your staff. Fire safety efforts are great, but if your staff is ill-prepared for a fire, they can be all for naught. Make sure you are regularly going over fire routes, fire exits, evacuation protocols and fire extinguisher use with your staff. That way, everyone will know exactly how to take action in the event that a fire begins, which can eliminate confusion in a panicking situation.

If you are dealing with the aftermath of a fire at your business, you can depend on us. Contact us today to learn more about our fire restoration services.

A Guide to Fire Code Considerations for Your Commercial Space

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

If your business needs help with fire damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Douglasville 24/7/365.

If you own or operate a business or other commercial space, understanding how to protect your investment and your employees from harm related to fire damage is a must. Not only are fires extremely dangerous for anyone who is in the area, but they can also be devastating to businesses—it is estimated that over half of businesses are unable to recover from a fire.

Fortunately, businesses are able to take many precautions when it comes to fire prevention, and national commercial fire codes are a great place to start. While each area will have their own local codes that should also be followed, below, we will examine some of the national codes that can help you keep your business safe and operational.

Fire Codes Pertaining to Commercial Sprinkler Systems

While they are not required in all types of commercial buildings, a commercial fire sprinkler system can be a fantastic way to reduce the risk of a fire severely impacting your business. Typically, the rules for fire sprinkler systems are that they must be installed in any commercial building over 5,000 square feet and any building that is taller than 55 feet in height.

Fire Codes Pertaining to Fire Alarms

While smaller commercial spaces are not always required to have a fire alarm system, installing them is a simple enough process that it is always a good idea. By alerting people to the fire quickly, your employees and customers will have more time to escape, which could potentially save a life. If possible, it is best to invest in interconnected fire alarms, so that when one is triggered, they will all sound to alert everyone in the area.

Fire Codes Pertaining to Fire Extinguishers

All businesses are required to have fire extinguishers on the premises, but how many and where they should be located varies based on the size and nature of the commercial space in question. Additionally, business owners are required to have fire extinguisher training with all employees at least once per year to be certain that everyone is aware of how to use a fire extinguisher and comfortable with the best practices.

If your business needs help with fire damage, you can count on us. We are here 24 hours a day to help you recover in the aftermath of a commercial fire. Contact us today to learn more.

Areas we Inspect After Storm Damage

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville will help you with the whole restoration process after a storm. Call us today.

You never know when you might suffer property damage due to bad rain, storm damage, wind or debris. In the wake of severe weather, you’ll want to contact SERVPRO to inspect, document and restore any damages to your business for you.

There is a lot you can do to mitigate storm damage, but it’s never completely preventable. Storms can be extremely costly to businesses.

In fact, experts predict that storm and flood damage could cost businesses over $13 billion in 2022.

It’s not always easy for the untrained eye to spot damage after a storm, and damage that goes unnoticed can grow and become even more costly and destructive. When you call SERVPRO to inspect the damage, here are just a few of the main areas we would look for when inspecting your property:

The Roof

Roof damage is one of the most often-occurring kinds of storm-related property damage. We will inspect the roof for loose, curled, missing or cracked shingles.

Additionally, dark patches on asphalt shingles may indicate water damage. Dents or weakened areas on the shingles are indicators of hail storm damage.

We will check for water damage indoors that has sneaked through a damaged roof. Water stains or leaks running down the wall, through a skylight or pooling in the center of the ceiling are further indications that the roof has a leak.

However, not all indications of water damage are obvious. The wisest course of action is to hire an expert to evaluate your house and search for indicators of a leaking roof.

The Exterior

Following a severe storm, you’re likely to find debris scattered around the exterior of your property. These pieces of debris may strike your property, cars or other structures, such as barns or machinery.

We will inspect the whole exterior of your property for loose or broken siding, doors, windows and gutters, among other things. Oftentimes, the exterior can be a significant source of unwanted water leakage that can cause interior water damage and flooding during a storm.

Dents or bends in gutters are often the result of hail, wind and/or debris damage. It is critical to employ an expert to evaluate, record and repair any possible damages precisely and safely.

Windows and Doors

Windows may potentially sustain damage during a severe storm, especially one with heavy winds. Our technicians will inspect the glass for broken panes, shattered glass, chips, scratches and fractures. Additionally, we will search for indicators of damaged seals that allow water to enter through windows and doors.

SERVPRO of Douglasville will help you with the whole restoration process after a disaster, from damage assessment through restoration and rebuilding. Do not hesitate to contact our professionals to get your storm damage emergency repaired immediately and properly.

Reduce the Chance of Commercial Storm Damage

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

If storm damage ever causes a mess at your business, call the pros at SERVPRO of Douglasville.

Without warning, high-velocity winds from severe weather can damage your business. No storm’s timing or severity can be fully predicted.

Tornadoes are a common occurrence here in Georgia. Tornado winds can reach up to 300 mph in the most powerful tornadoes. Wind speeds of this magnitude can lift vehicles into the air, tear houses and businesses apart and turn shattered glass and other debris into dangerous projectiles.

It might feel like there’s nothing that can be done to prevent the full severity of storm damage, but a few simple precautions can be taken to help reduce the chance of property damage and save you money on repairs and missed productivity.

The Roof

It is critical to ensure your roof can hold up against storm damage. Storms may cause shingles to fly off or be broken by hail and debris.

To ensure that your business’ roof is protected against wind damage, get it assessed for a variety of factors, including the following:

• Shingles have a high wind and impact resistance rating
• Shingles are snugly secured and fitted together
• The roof sheathing is set firmly in place
• The connection between the roof and the walls is sufficiently secure to prevent the roof from being lifted off by high winds and updrafts
• HVAC equipment, skylight and pipelines are securely fastened and will not blow away

Exterior Walls and Doors

Different types of exteriors are more or less prone to damage from storms than others. In fact, steel siding is known as one of the most durable siding options available, as it can withstand harsh storms and damaging winds.

Some commercial spaces can be primarily glass, brick or concrete exteriors, which all have different levels of tolerance to storm damage. To make sure your building’s exterior is protected from wind damage, check the following:

• The structure is well-sealed to prevent wind from entering gaps and crevices and damaging the interior of your business
• Siding and windows are attached securely
• All entry doors are triple-hinged and protected with a deadbolt lock
• Overhead doors are well-reinforced and capable of withstanding heavy winds

Outdoor Areas

Many commercial properties have exterior spaces, from walkways to playgrounds. Perhaps you have outdoor benches, tables and chairs or potted plants.

Check the following to ensure that the areas around your property are protected against damaging winds and storms:

• Storage sheds and structures are securely anchored
• Everything you keep outdoors (equipment, inventory and supplies) is either secured or readily moved inside
• Dumpsters, outdoor lighting fixtures and fences are secured
• Large bushes and trees in close proximity to your structure are healthy and pruned
• Outdoor advertising or signage are secured

You’ve worked hard to get your business to where it is today. If storm damage ever causes a mess at your business, call SERVPRO of Douglasville to handle any and all storm disaster cleanup and restoration.

Fire Safety & HVAC Maintenance

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

If fire should become a problem, contact the pros in green, SERVPRO of Douglasville.

Being a responsible homeowner means taking care of the things that take care of you. Your HVAC system is always there, and there are few (if any) days per year in our area where you aren’t relying on it to keep your home comfortable. It often goes unappreciated—that is, until something goes south or stops working.

There are also some important fire safety concerns of which you need to remain aware, particularly as winter comes in and your HVAC switches to heating mode. Don’t let your source of comfort turn into a source of disaster.

Here’s what you need to do to make sure your HVAC system and furnace are running safely this fall and winter.

Routine Maintenance

Ideally, your HVAC system should be checked twice a year for any present or upcoming issues. A professional can see problems coming and head them off before any danger is presented.

Things like aging or fraying wiring can become fire hazards that are exacerbated by the extended use of HVAC systems during less pleasant times of the year.

Duct System Circulation

Overworked heating systems are dangerous heating systems, and one thing that can quickly cause your system to work too hard is allowing your ductwork to become or remain clogged. Poor circulation or ventilation can cause your furnace to overheat.

It’s recommended that you have your duct work cleaned every three to five years, and we can help with that.

Declutter Your Furnace Area

If your furnace is located in a designated area, or it’s in the corner of a basement or garage, make sure the two-foot radius around it is clear of clutter. Radiating heat (and certainly direct contact) from the furnace can cause flammable materials to ignite. Resist the urge to use your furnace area for storage.

Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

If your furnace is gas-powered, carbon monoxide detectors can be as important for you as smoke alarms. The gas in your furnace is odorless, and you may not notice a leak until it’s too late. A detector can give you the assurance that things are running smoothly.

In addition to your regular fall maintenance, make sure to have your heating unit examined to give yourself a comfortable, fire-safe fall and winter season.

If fire should become a problem at home, we can help you with restoration and recovery. Contact SERVPRO to get the pros in green working for you right away.

Can Lightning Cause Serious Property Damage

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Though most rain fronts that pass through our area are no major event, severe weather is something that is entirely different. Severe weather can strike nearly any time of year if conditions are right, and with it, bring heavy rains, high winds, lightning strikes, hail and more—all of which can be rather dangerous.

Many of us are cognizant of the injuries and fatalities that lightning strikes in particular can cause. Around the world, they are responsible for 2,000 deaths each year and many more injuries. However, did you know that lightning can cause serious property damage, too? Below, we will be taking a look at why lightning strikes where it does and the types of damage to be aware of.

Why Does Lightning Strike Where it Does?

The majority of lightning strikes that occur during any given thunderstorm will be from one cloud to another as the electrical charge is transferred from area to area in a storm. However, with all this electricity in the air, lightning can also begin to target the ground, as objects such as buildings, trees and bushes send up sparks to meet it. While it is true that taller objects are more likely to be struck by lightning, it is not a guarantee—lightning will strike anywhere there is a charge, whether it be the ground, a tree or a home.

How Does Lightning Cause Damage?

When lightning strikes a building, it can cause serious property damage as a result. The main ways this can happen are:

* Damage due to fire where lightning strikes. When lightning strikes, it is incredibly hot—and therefore, this heat will be transferred to the impacted target. In many cases, this will cause immediate combustion at the site of the strike.

* Damage due to electrical fires. In addition to the threat that lightning can cause an initial fire where it strikes, it can also cause damage due to electrical fires. Because lightning carries an electric charge, it will travel through a building’s wires once it makes contact—this can cause damage to those wires and lead to an electrical fire, either immediately or later on.

* Water damage due to impact. Even if it does not start a fire, lightning will leave a hole where it strikes a home, which can lead to water damage if it is raining.

*If you have damage to your home, due to lightning or other storm-related causes, we are the team to call. We are here 24/7 to help—get in touch today.*

How Does Water Damage Lead to Mold?

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

If mold invades your home, call SERVPRO of Douglasville today!

Water damage is something that no homeowner ever wants to experience, but unfortunately, it is a rather common occurrence. Between hidden leaks that can pop up in your plumbing system, water seepage in crawl spaces or surprise roofing issues, there are lots of ways that water damage can pop up in a home.

While water damage is an inconvenience, it can lead to an even more pressing concern: mold growth. Mold growth thrives in damp places, so any time water works its way into an area it should not be in, there is a high chance that mold will find its way there as well. Below, we will look at why mold and water damage are so closely related so you can be on the lookout for any signs of growth.

Why Water Damage Often Leads to Mold

**Mold loves humidity.** The nature of water damage can vary, but in incidents where there is flooding or general dampness in an affected area, the humidity levels can get rather high. Basements, laundry rooms and bathrooms can all turn into very humid areas, which can create the ideal environment for mold to take hold. Ideally, the humidity in an area should stay below

50% at all times in order to discourage mold growth.

**Mold spores need moisture to grow.** Many people are surprised to learn that mold spores are everywhere—in nature, mold aids with the decomposition of organic material, and its spores spread via the air. Therefore, mold spores are always floating around looking for an ideal place to land, which is how they wind up in homes (often after hitching a ride on clothes, shoes or pets). However, mold spores require moisture to grow, so while they may work their way into homes, if they cannot find an area with moisture that they can grow, they will not be able to

reproduce.

**Mold grows well in contaminated waters.** Oftentimes, water damage is caused by water that is not necessarily clean, such as rainwater or floodwater. Mold can grow especially well in these types of waters because of all the bacteria that is already present, making water damage of this type especially susceptible to mold growth.

*If you are curious about how mold remediation works, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our remediation services or to report mold damages.*

Let's Prepare Your Emergency Ready Plan Together

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

If the day comes where your business is hit with disaster or emergency, you can rest assured SERVPRO of Douglasville will be there

Being a business owner can seem easy—the idea of getting to pick your hours is ideal! But the reality is, you’re always on call, whether you are there or not, and you are responsible for things like employee relations, payables and safety!

Disasters or accidents can disrupt your business in only a matter of minutes. It’s actually scary to see that FEMA states 40% of small businesses will not reopen after a natural disaster, and a quarter of those that do reopen are forced to close their doors within a year.

That’s why it’s imperative to have a safety plan in place for your business. Three-quarters of all small businesses don’t have a plan in place, and now is the perfect time to make the change. We are here and ready to help you become better prepared.

We are always ready and proud to serve our local communities such as Roberta, Fort Valley, Byron and Zenith, along with so many others. Together we will work to get your Emergency Ready Plan started. Being locally owned and operated means we are all neighbors, and we will help our neighbors through the good and bad times.

When we work together, our goal is to help minimize downtime within your company, and help everyone understand what to do. We will carefully review and analyze your business needs to determine what you might need in the face of a disaster. From there, we’ll detail exactly what to do, including alternative locations to work from and data backup, so that you can react with confidence and not chaos.

Business owners have to worry about enough, and disaster planning is one thing that we can help take off your plate. Contact your local SERVPRO experts to help you prepare your Emergency Ready Plan. You can trust us to protect your business and employees!

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.

How Can High Winds Cause Damage During a Storm?

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

If your home has been damaged due to high winds, call SERVPRO of Douglasville 24 hours a day. ??

When it comes to severe weather, there are a lot of ways it can cause harm to an impacted area. More than 75% of deaths pertaining to natural hazards are a result of severe weather, and the property damages caused by storms can be far-reaching and severe. When most people consider severe weather hazards, heavy rains and lightning strikes are probably the first things that come to mind—but unfortunately, straight-line winds can also be significantly damaging to property and people.

Damaging straight-line winds are anything over 50–60 miles per hour, but gusts can reach up to 100 miles per hour if conditions are favorable. When thunderstorms are over an area, they will often cause downdrafts of wind that impact the ground below in several unfavorable ways, which we will look at below.

How Do High Winds Lead to Storm Damage?

**They can rip limbs from trees.** While trees grow to have a certain amount of flex to them in order to withstand the threat of high winds, occasionally, branches will still be ripped from the tree. This is especially true of branches that grow at an odd angle or are less than healthy, which is why trimming trees regularly is so important. When limbs are ripped from trees, they can become high-speed projectiles, crashing into any object or home that ends up in their path.

**They can topple mobile homes.** Because straight-line winds can reach up to 100 miles per hour, they can easily generate an extremely strong force—and in many cases, this can be enough to topple mobile homes or trailers. Even anchored mobile homes can be at risk if winds are strong enough, which puts the people who seek shelter in these homes at serious risk.

**They can make homes more susceptible to water damage.** High winds and water damage often go hand in hand, because winds can cause damage to homes that make them more susceptible to water damage. Projectiles carried on the wind can shatter windows, which will then let in rain. Additionally, high winds can damage roofing shingles, flashing and other exterior elements of the home designed to keep moisture out, resulting in hidden leaks that can be costly.

*If you have storm damage to your home, you can count on our team to help. Get in touch today to learn more about our restoration processes—we’re here 24/7 to help.*

What Conditions Are Right for Mold to Grow?

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can make you feel sick. Call SERVPRO of Douglasville if you have mold in your home.

Mold growth is a complicated issue for homeowners to have to face. While mold can only grow if the conditions are right, there are many instances where this is the case—and once mold establishes itself, it is extremely difficult to fully get rid of it without professional help with the remediation process.

Fortunately, the conditions where mold is likely to grow can be abated in most instances. Because prevention is so important when it comes to mold management, today we will be looking at the conditions that are ideal for mold to grow and how they can be prevented.

The Conditions That Mold is Likely to Grow In

**Warm, humid conditions.** Mold requires moisture to grow, but it does not always have to be standing moisture that allows it to start its process. Humid areas, such as bathrooms, basements and laundry rooms, are prime candidates for mold growth in the home. When the air in an area becomes saturated with humidity, it can lead to high moisture throughout the room which can allow mold to become established.

**Poorly ventilated areas.** Mold spores are spread via the air, so when areas are poorly ventilated, it is much easier for mold to settle in one spot and begin to reproduce. This is doubly concerning as areas with poor air circulation are also typically areas with high humidity, which can create an even more ideal environment for mold spores to land in. Installing fans or other types of air flow system in areas without much ventilation is a great way to prevent mold.

**Any area with untreated moisture damage.** Mold will often establish itself around water damage, as it thrives on moisture. Any area that has a buildup of moisture is ripe for mold growth, which means hidden leaks are often first identified by the signs of mold around the area. This is why it is so important to have water damage abated quickly and professionally when it occurs, because the longer it is left untreated (or if it is untreated properly), the worse a mold problem is able to become.

*If you are in need of mold remediation or would like to learn more, we would love to help. Contact us today to learn more about our mold remediation services!*

The Dangers That Occur When Severe Weather Strikes

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged from flash floods, lightning, or hail call SERVPRO of Douglasville 24 hours a day!

More than simply being an inconvenience, severe weather can cause serious damage in a variety of ways. In addition to being dangerous enough to cause personal injury to anyone who has not sought out adequate shelter, severe weather can also cause property damage to any homes or businesses in the line of the storm.

While severe weather can often move through an area without causing much damage, any time it is a possibility, it is wise to be vigilant so you know when to seek safe shelter to protect your family. Below, we will be taking a look at the types of hazards that happen during severe weather so you can be better prepared for their occurrence.

The Types of Hazards That Occur During Severe Weather

**Flash flooding threats.** Flash flooding is a serious problem, in part because it is quite unpredictable—hence the term “flash.” Flash flooding is more common in low-lying areas, but it can happen anywhere that receives a heavy amount of rainfall in a short period of time. Rapidly rising creeks and ponds are often sources of flash flooding, but even overwhelmed storm drains can become backed-up and impact an area.

**Fire hazards from lightning strikes.** Lightning strikes can occur any time there is a thunderstorm, and they are responsible for around 2,000 deaths per year throughout the world. In addition to being dangerous for anyone caught outside, lightning strikes can also introduce serious fire risks when they strike homes. Lightning can start a fire when it hits a home, due to the intense amount of heat it transfers, but it can also cause electrical fires as it travels through (and damages) a home’s wires on its way to seeking grounding.

**Damage due to high winds and hail.** Severe weather is often accompanied by high, straight-line winds up to 100 miles per hour—which as you can imagine, can cause serious damage. High winds can break off tree branches and turn them into projectiles, which can shatter windows, damage roofs and make homes susceptible to water damage as a result of being vulnerable to heavy rains.

*If severe weather strikes your home, you can depend on us to help. We have a team of storm restoration experts on hand 24/7—contact us today to learn more.*

What Types of Places Are Likely to Attract Mold Growth?

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

If invades your home, call SERVPRO of Douglasville to evict it!

Mold growth can be a frightening thing for homeowners to deal with. It is an insidious and stubborn problem that can cause significant damages if not treated quickly and professionally by mold remediation experts—but how do you know if you are at risk of experiencing mold growth?

One of the only positives about mold is the extremely specific conditions that it needs to grow. Mold is only likely to be found in a few places where the environment is right for it to be able to take hold.

Below, we will be taking a look at what these places are so homeowners know exactly where to keep their eye out for these harmful spores. Preventing mold and treating it quickly when it does arise is the best way to stop the issue from getting out of hand.
The Places Where Mold Is Likely to Grow

**In bathrooms and laundry rooms.** Mold thrives in areas with high moisture content, so anywhere that experiences regular and high humidity—such as bathrooms and laundry rooms—is likely to be a haven for mold. Establishing consistent airflow and mitigating the humidity in these areas can go a long way in preventing mold from ever growing in these places.

**In basements and crawl spaces.** Basements and crawl spaces are often popular spots for mold to be discovered because of how ideal their conditions are. Not only is humidity typically high in these areas, but they are also often dark and may even experience water damage from ground seepage if they are not properly weatherproofed. Dank odors and condensation in these areas are often a sure sign that mold is likely to take hold.

**In areas that have experienced water damage.** Water damage is a serious issue for several reasons, including the fact that it is likely to give rise to mold growth if it is not treated properly. Whether the water damage is from a hidden leak in the plumbing system or a flooding issue, it is important that it be addressed quickly by water restoration professionals to completely remove the moisture and ensure that mold is not likely to become a lurking threat.

*If you are in need of mold remediation, water damage restoration or would simply like to learn more, we are here 24/7 to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services.*

Whatever the Disaster, We’re Here to Help Your Business

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what causes the damage, we can handle it. SERVPRO of Douglasville are your local restoration experts.

Even on a normal day, it’s difficult to operate a business. With so many competing demands for your time and attention, it’s easy to see why managing or owning a business might be a little stressful.

Consequently, if something were to interrupt business like damage from a natural disaster, you might need some experts to step in and lend a hand.

SERVPRO is the industry leader when it comes to commercial disaster cleaning, recovery and restoration. Our goal is to help you get back on your feet after a crisis by handling the cleanup and restoration process so you can continue to focus on what you need to do to keep your business going.

No matter what causes the damage, we can handle it:

Smoke and fire damage. The NFPA estimates that U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 3,340 fires in office properties per year that cost an annual average of over $110 million in property damage. We can take care of everything from the demolition and reconstruction of your building to the elimination of smoke odors.

Water damage. Damage caused by water seeping inside the building from any number of things, such as a storm, leaky roof, broken pipes, an overflowing water heater and other unanticipated problems, can cause issues from carpets getting saturated to drywall getting destroyed and even structural integrity potentially becoming compromised. No matter what happens, we’ll get you back up and running quickly and thoroughly.

Weather-related disaster damage. Natural disasters affect one out of every three businesses, and many of them are not prepared. One way to be prepared is to know what to do between disaster and the completion of your restoration. We can set your business up with a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan, which will help you know exactly what to do if disaster should strike.

Regardless of the nature or severity of your needs, we can assist you in getting back to business as quickly as possible.

Contact SERVPRO of Douglasville when you’re ready to have the best in disaster cleaning and recovery on your side. We’re here to assist you in preparing for or recovering from a catastrophe.

Have a Strong Commercial Fire Safety System

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

A fire can happen to any business. If your workplace experiences any damage from fire, contact SERVPRO of Douglasville.

Fires can cause serious damage and inconvenience to businesses. Ensuring that you are prepared for a fire before it happens will protect your employees and your facility.

With these four critical components, you can construct a solid fire safety system that will help curb a fire if one happens to spark up at your workplace.

Smoke and Fire Alarms

When it comes to fire safety in the workplace, the first and most important line of defense is a working fire and smoke alarm system. Everyone is alerted when the fire alarm goes off, indicating that there is a possible threat and that an emergency evacuation is required.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are really only helpful for small fires, but knowing how to use one could prevent extreme damage to your facility. When using fire extinguishers, you and your employees should use OSHA’s “PASS” system:

P—Pull the pin on the extinguisher

A—Aim at the base of the fire

S—Squeeze the handle

S—Sweep at the fire, and move side to side

Sprinkler System

The usage of a sprinkler system is important as well. Sprinkler systems can be programmed to activate when the temperature reaches a specific level and can douse even very large flames.

You’ll likely need a professional inspector to provide regular inspections to ensure sprinkler and standpipe systems are properly maintained and running. As with any emergency equipment that is not used every day, ensuring it is in working condition regularly is essential.

Emergency Lighting and Signage

Conditions may be hectic and confusing during a fire. The building’s electrical power also often goes out. It might be difficult to see or navigate the building due to power outage, sprinklers going off, as well as smoke in the air.

People are more likely to be able to see well enough to leave the building and find safety if the facility is equipped with backup emergency lights that turn on automatically, along with lighted exit signs.

A fire can happen to any business. If your workplace happens to be affected, SERVPRO of Douglasville has expert fire restoration professionals who can assist you immediately.

The 2 Most Common Causes of Commercial Water Damage

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage doesn’t wait for a convenient time to cause problems. SERVPRO of Douglasville is ready 24 hours a day.

When you’re running a business, it’s easy to let a few things slip your mind. Perhaps checking your facility for water damage is one of those tasks. Water damage can sneak in quietly, but can pack a big punch if it isn’t found and treated quickly.

Water damage can cause expensive losses for business. Thankfully, it’s not impossible to find and address water damage early on, before it gets to be a major issue.

There are a lot of ways water can creep into your facility, but these two are the most common:

Leaks in the plumbing system. A pipe breaks, an appliance hose ruptures or if your facility has a fire, the suppression sprinkler system turns on and drenches your facility in water.

Pipes may also unexpectedly leak during freezing conditions due to frozen water. Burst pipes are sometimes difficult to detect since they are not as visible from the surface and may not always result in obvious puddles of standing water.

Water stains near piping areas or the development of musty odors are evidence of plumbing leaks. You might notice the stains on the ceiling, running down the walls or on your floors.

Roof leaks. Leaky roofs are often the result of severe rainfall combined with insufficient or incorrect roof drainage. Excessive rainfall, such as that seen during natural disasters, may often result in widespread damage when it leaks inside.

This sort of damage has the potential to develop further if it goes unnoticed with fewer people in the facility, like overnight or on a weekend. Roof damage may also result in secondary damage such as unsightly mold development, if left unattended for an extended period of time.

Commercial property insurance typically provides coverage for unforeseen pipe bursts, malfunctioning appliances and sprinkler system water damage caused by a property fire. Insurance also often includes coverage for damage to major equipment, which is crucial in the event of roof water leaks.

Water damage doesn’t wait for convenient times to cause problems, and we don’t wait for convenient times to respond. If water damage creeps up at your commercial property, SERVPRO is ready 24 hours a day and seven days a week to help.

SERVPRO Gives You a Seamless Recovery Process

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

We’ve got the tools and technology to handle any job. Contact SERVPRO of Douglasville to learn more.

Doesn’t a cake sound delicious? If it didn’t before the beginning of that sentence, it probably does now.

So let’s bake one from scratch. Ready? First, we’ll go to the local poultry farmer to get some eggs, then the dairy farm for milk. Then we’ll head over to the mill for flour (unless you want to mill it at home for authenticity, and…sugar from the cane fields, maybe?

Yeah, you could go to those extreme lengths to get all your ingredients. But it’s the 21st century, and at this point most of us are looking to find one place we can go to get all the things we need for a cake, or whatever other confectionary delight you may have in mind.

Most of our shopping isn’t modular anymore, because part of what makes a great business great is that it offers a level of convenience that makes it easy to use and often decreases the buyer’s cost.

One of the many great things about being your local SERVPRO is that we can provide you with a single place to take care of every element of restoration after a disaster. Whether the nature of your damage is from water, fire, natural disaster or anything in between, we can get your home fully back to tip-top shape from beginning to end.

Need carpet dried and cleaned? We’ve got you. Drywall burned up in a fire? We can replace it, finish it, and even paint it. (You know we started as a painting business, right?)

Everything from reframing and construction to the tiniest finishing touches—we can make it happen, and you don’t have to worry about the process dragging on because multiple companies and sets of contractors have to wait on each other, communicate poorly, undo, redo and haggle with your insurance agent. From step one to done, SERVPRO has it under control.

We’ll even talk to your insurance company to simplify that process, too.

So when a heavy storm rips through the house, an unexpected flood fills your basement with water, or an electrical fire eats up your hallway, don’t call five companies—call one.

Did you hear the oven ding? Cake’s ready.

For an A to Z cleanup, recovery and restoration solution, you don’t have to worry. Your local SERVPRO has all the tools and teams necessary to finish your project, no matter how complex.

SERVPRO Has the Expertise to Handle Your Cleanup and Recovery

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, SERVPRO of Douglasville has your back.

Have you heard of the 10,000 Hour Rule? It’s an idea popularized by author Malcom Gladwell that says, essentially, it takes 10,000 hours to master one’s craft and become an expert.

Noted achievers like Bill Gates in the tech world and Alex Rodriguez in sports and entrepreneurship subscribe to the idea that it takes concerted effort over a long period to be able to truly call yourself one of the best in a given field.

If the 10,000 hour rule holds true, then you can only imagine the level of expertise you can expect when you call your local SERVPRO to help you after a disaster in your home or business. Think about it—1,800 SERVPRO teams nationwide, doing business over the span of a half-century? We tried to do the actual math, but it just made us go cross-eyed.

The point is that when you call SERVPRO, you can be absolutely certain that you’re calling a reputable team of true experts, highly trained and heavily equipped for any home recovery need you may have.

Every SERVPRO franchise owner goes through complete training at the SERVPRO National Training Center, and every team member sits under them to extend that knowledge. We actually have a training house that we flood, set on fire and otherwise destroy, so that our teams can learn firsthand the latest techniques for restoring and repairing damaged homes, furnishings and more.

Expertise matters. And in an age where anyone can get on social media and crown themselves an expert, having a proven track record is what can set one service apart—and nobody has the track record of SERVPRO. For more than 50 years, we’ve satisfied literal millions of home and business owners with quality service and outstanding care.

When you call SERVPRO of Douglasville, you can rest assured you’re getting in touch with teams that know what they’re doing because they’ve been doing it for a lot of people, for a very long time. We’ve put in our 10,000 hours as a company many times over.

When you need thorough, expert home cleaning or restoration, you know who to trust. Contact SERVPRO when disaster strikes, and let the pros handle it.

Trust SERVPRO for Your Remodel

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

When you call SERVPRO of Douglasville, rest assured you’re getting in touch with the best restoration team in the business.

We talk a lot around here about recovery, damage from storms and fires, that sort of thing—and we should. A great deal of what we do revolves around helping families and business owners who are struck by sudden situations and find themselves in need of a trustworthy service company to help them restore their damaged homes and business.

That’s a role we’re proud to fill for millions of customers nationwide, and it’s gained us the industry-leader reputation we’re honored to have earned.

But it doesn’t take a tornado for you to take advantage of SERVPRO’s expertise.

Our highly trained construction teams can help you beautify, add on or remodel your home for no other reason than it being something you want to do. No disaster required.

Recent studies show that as many as 90% of homeowners plan on remodeling their homes at some point, and almost four out of 10 plan on doing it in the next year. If you’re one of these millions of homeowners, call SERVPRO of Conyers/Covington when you’re ready to make it happen, and you can trust the same expert teams who rebuild countless homes after disasters to give your kitchen, basement or whole home the facelift you’ve always dreamed about.

We cover the whole process, top to bottom—from inspection and gathering estimates, to mitigating any hazards or other difficulties that may hinder or interrupt the process, to full-service rebuilding and construction.

We can even go the extra mile and help you with dust control, contaminant protection and more with our premium services and EPA-registered preventive healthcare solutions.

You’ll love your new remodel, and you’ll love how easy the process is when you can trust one team to get your work done, instead of a rotation of multiple repair crews slowing down the job and struggling to communicate with each other.

You don’t have to wait for a flood, fire or natural disaster to take care of the expert construction services SERVPRO offers. We can help you build, rebuild or remodel your home and get the dream look you’ve always wanted.

If a remodel is in your future, you owe it to yourself to check with SERVPRO and get a quote. Call us today and get a local team of experts invested in your project.

Whatever Your Restoration Need, We’ve Got You Covered

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

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

If you pass by a home or business that is up in flames, your heart truly goes out to those people. But when you see that green SERVPRO truck pull up, you know they are being well-taken care of.

At SERVPRO, we provide full-service cleaning, restoration and reconstruction services. So we will fix or clean things from top to bottom, and we will do it in a timely and efficient way.

Here’s a breakdown of SERVPRO services you can benefit from:

Water damage recovery. Whether you have encountered a flash flood that made its way into your home or you had a pipe that has busted, you can be certain that we will take care of you. When it comes to water, it doesn’t take much to do damage, and that’s why you should call us.

Fire damage recovery. A fire is reported every 23 seconds here in the United States. Fires, and the things used to put them out, can do a lot of damage, which requires lots of cleanup. That’s why we bring out all the help we can get.

Mold removal. Mold damage can creep up on you without you ever seeing it and can threaten the structure of your home. Once it’s established in your home or business, mold can spread quickly and easily, so call in the pros.

Storm recovery. Storms of any kind can cause damage, and no matter the size of damage it causes, you can count on us to help you restore your home or business.

Commercial needs. If you’re a business owner, have peace of mind in knowing we offer you all the same services we offer homeowners, plus a few extra!

General cleaning. Cleaning can be a headache for some, but for us here at SERVPRO, it’s pretty simple. We will provide your home or business cleaning services, including carpet or curtain cleaning and more.

Specialty cleaning. Sometimes you have cleaning needs that go beyond the basics. If you need specialized services such as document restoration or biohazard cleanup, we’re here to help.

Construction. Sometimes, damage can be severe and restoring your place is out of the question. The good news is you don’t have to find another company to help you—SERVPRO can reconstruct your home or business and get it looking “Like It Never Even Happened.”

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.

Why SERVPRO Should Be Your Top Choice for Water Damage Restoration

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville is ready 24 hours a day to respond to your emergency water damage.

Having water damage your home is something that can feel extremely overwhelming. Whether you have a leak, a flood or other type of water-related issue, water damage can be disruptive to your life and your routine. And if you are unsure of how to handle it, it can be more disruptive than you imagine.

No matter where you live, it is important to understand your risk for flooding and other types of water damage—especially because one in 10 properties in the United States are at risk for flooding—so you can plan ahead for it. Water damage can come about suddenly, but having a plan in place for who to call can help you handle it quickly and efficiently.

Why to Choose SERVPRO for Water Restoration at Your Home

**We respond quickly to your call.** Water damage is not something that you want to leave unattended for any length of time. Mold and mildew growth can start quite quickly after water damage, but the faster it is addressed, the less likely this is to be an issue. With our 24/7 emergency line, you can be confident that you can get in touch with us whenever you need us.

**We understand the intricacies of water damage.** Water damage is rarely a simple issue, and oftentimes, it is a rather complex one. Water can seep into many places that are not supposed to be wet, and when these areas are hidden, it is impossible to know the scope of the issue. Because we understand the intricacies of water damage, we monitor impacted areas to find any areas with hidden moisture to make sure any water damage is fully addressed.

**We have a national backup plan.** If there is a widespread issue that causes water damage, such as flooding, resources in the local area can be spread quite thin. We combat this issue by having the backing of our national brand—because there are SERVPRO locations across the nation, we can scale up resources, equipment and technicians as needed, so you can expect the same level of service even when there is an extreme need.

*If you need assistance with water damage in your household, you can count on us to be there for you. Get in touch with us at any time to learn more about our water restoration process.*

Creating Your Home’s Fire Safety Blueprint

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville is here 24/7 to help you get prepared for an emergency.

Increasing the fire safety of your home is a great goal. House fires can be traumatic and dangerous events, causing extensive property damage as well as injury or loss of life. However, if you have not previously considered your options for fire safety, getting into the habit of fire prevention around the house may seem like a daunting task.

The good news is that improving your home’s fire safety is ultimately quite a simple task. Once you assess where your gaps in fire prevention efforts are, you can implement simple new habits to better protect your home.

Below, we will help you identify where you could improve fire safety so you can figure out exactly what you can do to help keep your household safer from fires.

Determining Where to Improve Your Fire Safety at Home

**Consider personal safety first.** While fire prevention is quite important, the first thing you should do from a safety perspective is to consider how to protect your family if a fire does start. One of the best things you can do is install smoke alarms throughout the home and test them monthly to ensure they are operational. That way, anyone in the home will be alerted right away if a fire starts and can quickly get to safety. Additionally, you should draft a fire evacuation plan for your household and practice it regularly, so everyone is aware of what to do if the alarms do sound.

**Next, consider your daily habits.** Because many fires are started due to seemingly innocuous errors around the home, it is important to consider how your daily habits could have a role in your fire safety efforts. On average, how careful are you when cooking, lighting candles and utilizing flammable objects? Being aware of little things, like keeping flammable objects away from heat sources, can go a long way toward safety.

**Know the fire risks to watch for.** In addition to building good habits, knowing when to identify a fire risk is an important part of the puzzle. Things such as overloaded extension cords, frayed wires or space heaters being used improperly are red flags regarding fire safety—and quickly addressing them can go a long way towards prevention.

*If you have damage due to a fire in your home, you can count on us for restoration. Get in touch today to learn more about how we can help.*

Where to Start on Fire Safety Efforts for the Home

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville is ready to help you create your emergency plan.

If you are hoping to improve your household fire safety, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. House fires are certainly dangerous, but given the multitude of ways they can start, understanding what fire prevention measures to take around the home can seem like it will be a daunting task.

Fortunately, fire safety is actually quite simple! By adding certain habits into your household routines, you can make major strides in reducing your likelihood of a fire and keeping your family safer.

Read on to learn more regarding where to start when improving fire safety in the home.

How to Begin Your Fire Safety Efforts at Home

**Start with your smoke alarms.** If you are new to fire safety efforts, starting with smoke alarms is really the best thing that you can do. Most people will have less than three minutes to escape when a fire begins in the home, but smoke alarms can ensure all members of your household are alerted quickly so they can begin evacuating. Make sure you have smoke alarms installed throughout each level of the home and in every sleeping area, and test them once per month to be sure they are operational and do not need a battery replacement.

**Create an escape plan.** As previously mentioned, being able to escape quickly is so important in the event of a house fire. It is wise to draft a fire escape plan for your home, and practice it with each member of your household at least every six months. Be sure that you are able to execute your plan in around two minutes, and that everyone knows where to meet up once they are safely outside.

**Consider your cooking habits.** Cooking is one of the most common causes of house fires, so evaluating your cooking habits can be a great way to prevent fires from starting. Be careful about flammable objects near the stove and leaving food unattended while cooking. Additionally, make sure that you have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen that is rated to handle cooking and grease-related fires.

*If you have damage to your home from a house fire, we are the team to call. We are here 24/7 to provide you with a rapid response. Get in touch today to learn more.*

The 3 Toxicity Levels of Water Damage

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

No matter the water damage, we can quickly set things right. Contact the SERVPRO of Douglasville team to learn more.

Water damage can happen all sorts of ways, and it can certain cause myriad problems, not the least of which is its potential for toxicity. But how do we determine which water sources are toxic and which aren’t? Why isn’t it safe to touch or swim in floodwater, but rain is fine—aren’t they the same?

These distinctions are very important, and there’s a governing body called the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification that helps us understand them.

Category 1: Clean Water Damage

Damage from so-called “clean” water is the least worrisome kind of damage, and assumes a certain level of cleanliness from its sources—typically things like refrigerators, water supply lines for appliances or even showers.

The nature of this type of damage means most of the damage mitigation involves simple drying, extracting and dehumidifying, and most instances of clean water damage don’t create health worries.

Category 2: Grey Water Damage

The next category is referred to as “grey” water. The sources of grey water include sources that aren’t inherently or necessarily toxic, but that could or may be—overflow from toilets, backups from an unfiltered sump pump, or even leaks from a washing machine which could have been holding toxic materials during the wash cycle.

Touching water from these sources may not cause immediate harm, but grey water is still to be avoided as it could cause potential danger all the same.

Category 3: Black Water Damage

“Black” water is the nasty stuff. It carries an immediate, inherent risk of toxicity, and it requires immediate action for removal to get these risks mitigated. Sewer backflows, broken toilet bowls containing fecal matter and other septic water fall into this category.

It may surprise you, but overflowing ground and river water fall into this category, as does flood water, because they may contain everything from waste to lawn-care chemicals and parasitic organisms. Black water can cause health effects, and affected surfaces like carpet or sheetrock must be removed. This water is also the most difficult to deal with in the aftermath, because it requires such care in cleanup.

No matter the water damage or the level of toxicity or danger to your home or family, we can quickly set things right. Contact your local SERVPRO team today to find out how we can tackle water problems of any size or nature.

Why SERVPRO Is Your Go-To for Any Restoration Needs

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville is ready 24 hours a day to respond to your emergency situation.

Needing restoration on your home is something that can feel rather overwhelming, but eventually, it is likely to happen. From damaging severe weather incidents to leaks or kitchen fires, there are many ways that a home can sustain damage, but fortunately, there are comprehensive solutions that can help ease the complications of restoration.

To better prepare your household to deal with damages that need restoration, it is best to think ahead regarding what company you would like to use. That way, when you discover damage, you can make the call immediately to begin the restoration process.

In most cases, it is vital that restoration happens quickly—so below, we have outlined a few reasons why we are here to be your go-to.

Why to Choose SERVPRO for Your Restoration Needs

**We understand that each scenario is different.** While incidents that require restoration are quite common, every scenario is still different. For example, in spite of the fact that house fires impact more than 350,000 families each year, every fire causes damage that varies in its scope. That is why we make sure that we have the expertise to deal with damages of any type, so you can always feel confident when you call on us.

**We provide a response 24 hours a day.** When it comes to damage restoration, it is important to act fast. This is vital not only for helping your household get back to its usual state, but it is also a must to prevent further issues from arising, such as mold and mildew growth after water damage. For this reason, we are here to respond to your call 24/7, 365 days a year.

**We do more than damage restoration.** In addition to simply restoring the damage an incident has caused in your home, we also help with every aspect of the process. From helping you pack things up to dealing with your insurance agent to get the most for your claim, we aim to provide assistance in any way we can throughout the process.

*If you are in need of a go-to partner for residential restoration, you can count on us. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our process or to receive a rapid response to your damage.*

Fires on Construction and Renovation Sites

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

If your construction project should be hindered by an unfortunate fire, contact SERVPRO of Douglasville.

A 2020 report by the National Fire Protection Association gives us insight into the most common fire dangers of unfinished properties. Some of these properties are in the construction phase, and some are undergoing major renovations. The published results are the culmination of a five-year study, looking at fires of this nature from 2013–2017.

These details serve to encourage adoption and adherence to NFPA standards and codes while building and renovating, in order to avoid the added cost and time of dealing with fires as a result of code violations.

The top three causes of construction and renovation fires are in a virtual tie for occurrence percentage, though their resulting damage varies. Electrical failure or malfunction causes 15% of construction fires, while another 14% each come from abandoned or discarded materials and heat sources too close to combustible materials.

Electrical malfunction also causes 16% of civilian injuries in these types of fires, while discarded material and combustion from heat sources cause 6% and 19%, respectively. Also of note is that fires caused by heat sources being too near to combustibles causes almost one fifth of all direct property damage from construction fires.

There are a few other causes of significance, though none with quite the impact of the top three. These include welding and cutting in close proximity to flammable materials or objects, unattended equipment, failure to properly clean work areas and various misuses of materials. The combination of these add up to 26% of construction fires and 27% of civilian injuries, but only 11% of property damage from fires on construction sites.

Adherence to fire codes and proper methodologies could prevent most of these unfortunate fires, and while it’s not always the most convenient way to do this, following these well-researched, thoughtfully crafted prevention codes is the safest way to manage any construction or renovation project.

Considering fire agencies respond to more than 6,000 construction fires alone each year, this report shows us that we’ve still got some ground to make up when it comes to proper fire safety methods.

If your construction project should be hindered by an unfortunate fire, we’re here to help, regardless of the cause. Contact SERVPRO of Douglasville Counties to find out how we can help you get back on track.

Breaking Down the Fire Tetrahedron

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

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

First things first, do you know the definition of a tetrahedron? To cut down on time, let us explain…it’s a three-dimensional, triangular shape with four equal sides.

Now that you know the basics of the geometric shape, let’s discuss what a fire tetrahedron is.

Basically, it’s a way of acknowledging that there are four components needed for fire to start—or four “sides” to the equation. If one of the sides is removed, the structure can’t stand and the fire can’t start.

The So-Called 100-Year Flood

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

If flooding or other water damage cause trouble for your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Douglasville.

Flood probability is based on a number of factors, and scientists and engineers use a specific set of criteria to determine the likelihood that rivers may flood in heavy storms. Flooding can happen wherever it rains, and it can cause troubles like 2019’s sudden troubles in Conyers; but there’s a certain term on which much of our flood conversation hinges: the “100-year flood.”

It’s a rather foreboding term, one that definitely makes the listener aware that it’s something to be concerned about. But what exactly is it? Is it a general term, or are there actually 100-year floods we can measure and predict?

First, a 100-year flood is a very real, scientific measurement, as opposed to a general declaration like, say, a gullywasher or deluge. Without getting overly technical, a 100-year flood is, in theory anyway, a flood that statistically should only occur about once every 100 years.

In other words, based on data from nearby rivers, bodies of water, elevation levels and other factors, a 100-year flood is a flood that has a 1% chance of occurring in any given year.

This kind of flood is also known as a 1% Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP) flood.

So, does a 100-year flood only occur every hundred years? Well, yes and no. While the average space between them typically does meet that criteria, that doesn’t preclude the possibility of two 1% floods happening in back-to-back decades, years, or even months.

Flooding is unpredictable, but statistically speaking, the 100-year or 1% designation gives us a baseline for estimating the frequency and severity of a certain kind of flood.

Why does all this matter? Well, for one thing, aside from giving us a sense of how bad a flood was or could be, and how likely it may be to occur again, the 1% AEP flood is the basis for the National Flood Insurance Program, which, among other things, requires homeowners within high-risk flood zones to carry flood insurance.

So you can see why it’s important that we have both accurate flooding data and analysis as well as risk prediction. The accuracy of the portrait and prediction of 100-year floods could impact whether your home sits in a high-risk zone or not.

The 1% analysis also helps us plan things like infrastructure, drainage and building needs for flood plain areas.

The last 100-year flooding in our area came in the form of massive floods in September 2009, which resulted in half a billion dollars in damages, and actually reached the 500-year flood designation in some areas, meaning there was only a 0.2% chance of that flood occurring that year in this area.

Flooding isn’t inevitable, but it’s always a possibility when heavy storms overwhelm bodies of water or drainage systems. If flooding or other water damage cause trouble for your home or business, contact SERVPRO for fast, complete cleanup and recovery.

5 Places to Check After a Hard Rain

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can come from a number of places. If you find any signs of damage to your property, call SERVPRO of Douglasville.

We get plenty of rain in the Fayetteville area. The national average for a given city is 38 inches of rain per year, and we beat that average that by more than 10 inches.

Now some of that rain courtesy of your standard, near-daily summer shower. But some of it, as you well know, comes from storms that pack quite a bit more punch.

As a homeowner, it’s incumbent upon you to protect your home as much from water damage as much as possible, or at least to stop it once it’s discovered. So after a heavy rain, here are the places you should check to make sure all is well.

Check your basement. If there’s one solitary place you can anticipate water damage at home, it’s the basement. Homes with basement have a 98% chance of experiencing excess moisture or flooding at some point, so check here first. If you see water pooling, paint bubbling or you smell a damp odor, you may have an issue.

Crawlspaces and attics. Much like the basement, these areas can become inundated with moisture. If you have a crawlspace instead of a basement, it’s subject to the same kind of moisture issues, and attic moisture can reveal to you that there’s a leak somewhere in the roof.

Check on your sump pump. Your sump pump works hard to move water away from your house during a big storm. You should test your pump quarterly, or after any major rainfall.

Examine your gutters. Your gutters catch more than rain, and there are plenty of ways for them to get clogged or even damaged. In particularly heavy rains, gutters can be overwhelmed by water flow, and that becomes even more likely if they are obstructed due to built-up dirt, granules from roof shingles, twigs and leaves.

Inspect your roof. You don’t have to get up on a ladder every time it rains, but after a heavy storm, particularly if you have overhanging tree branches, take a good look at your roof from the ground. If you notice anything that looks off—broken or warped shingles, unfastened flashing or gutters that seem out of place—call a professional to conduct a full examination.

Water damage can come from a number of places at home. If you find a source of water leakage has done harm to your property, call your local SERVPRO for fast, expert help.

The Most Common Roof Problems You’re Likely to Encounter

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Roof care is home care, and leak prevention is the name of the game. If you find any signs of damage to your property, call SERVPRO of Douglasville.

One of the sneakiest water damage sources in your home is actually on your home. Your roof regularly takes a beating from weather, sun, wind, rain and more, and it does a great job overall. If we were talking percentages, we’d be looking at Hank-Aaron-meets-Ted-Williams-type numbers.

But roofs are also one of the last places we tend to check for leaks, and thusly, one of the last places we catch leaks before they become a problem.

Make this your year to change all that. Keeping an eye on these problem areas can keep water from sneaking into your home through cracks and gaps in the roof.

Storm damage. Wind, hail and other environmental factors can damage your roof during a storm. No matter the season, your roof takes a pounding from storms, and you should always inspect your roof visually after a major storm, at the very least. If you suspect anything negative may have occurred, play it safe and let a pro examine it.

Falling branches and tree damage. Overhanging branches can crack and fall, but they can also rub away the top layer of your shingles over time as they sway with the wind. Trimming trees and being mindful of their proximity to your roof can help you avoid bad shingles and subsequent leaks.

Flashing. Your roof likely already has holes in it, but they’re the kind you have to have. Chimneys, vent pipes, skylights and even HVAC systems all come through your roof for ventilation. If the flashing is poorly installed, or if it simply wears down over time, it can cause seams in your roof and pull shingles and tiles off their proper alignment. Flashing may also need to be resealed from time to time.

Mold. Those dark streaks and patches on your roof are easy to ignore, but they’re really patches of mold—and that’s never good. There are many reasons to get rid of mold whenever and wherever you see it, but in the case of your roof, that mold can eventually eat away at your roofing material, which can let water in.

Gutters. While technically roof-adjacent, this one certainly needs attention as well. Keeping your gutters free of debris and buildup can stop water from damming up and flowing into your house by getting under your shingles.

Time. The truth is, your roof has a life expectancy, and even within that window it’s likely to develop needs that you can’t see from the ground or as an amateur. An annual roof checkup is recommended in order to keep your roof performing at its peak. A professional can identify problems that are, and some that have not yet come to pass.

Roof care is home care, and leak prevention is the name of the game. If water damage becomes an unexpected part of your home ownership experience, contact SERVPRO to get things cleaned up and restored.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Your Fire Restoration Needs?

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville can help you create an emergency plan to keep your family safe.

A house fire is something no one would like to experience, but unfortunately, they are a more common occurrence than most people realize. Every year, around 358,000 structures will have a fire event in them, causing billions in property damage across the United States.

House fires can lead to significant property damage as well as pose risks for injuries and deaths, so preparing as much as possible is a must for mitigating their impact.

Focusing on fire prevention is the best thing to do to keep your household safe, but it is also important that you have a plan for the aftermath of a fire just in case. Because smoke and soot can permeate rooms in the home that were not even impacted by a fire, it can be quite disruptive to your daily life—which is why we are here to guarantee a rapid response when you call us.

Why to Choose SERVPRO When You Need Home Fire Restoration

**We will get to you quickly.** Experiencing a house fire is a frightening thing, and if you have damage to your home, it is understandable that you will want it taken care of as quickly as possible. That is why we are here for you 24/7, 365 days a year. We always provide a rapid response when you call us, no matter the hour.

**We understand fire damage.** Fire damage is a complex thing. Not only is there the damage from the actual flames, but there is also smoke, soot and often moisture damage to consider. We approach fire damage with this in mind, and have the knowledge to tackle the entire spectrum of fire damage so it is "Like it never even happened."

**We have expert fire restoration technicians.** Because we always want to provide you with the best restoration service possible, we take our training programs very seriously and ensure that our technicians are well-versed in the world of fire restoration. Between third-party certifications and our own SERVPRO training that our technicians complete, you can be confident that the technicians assigned to your job know exactly what to do.

*If you are in need of fire restoration, let us be the team you call. Get in touch with us at any hour to learn more or to report your fire damage.

So You’ve Got a Sewage Backup

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage backup can be a serious problem, reach out SERVPRO of Douglasville to learn more.

Water damage can be rough stuff in any form. Burst pipes, flooding and appliance issues all create difficult situations in their own right. But a sewage backup can be an entirely other level of both nastiness and danger.

Sewer problems can be the result of civil sewer systems that have aged past their primes, tree roots growing into sewer lines or blockages of a sanitary sewer main. Regardless of the cause, however, one thing is clear (or literally probably not clear at all)—sewer backups introduce toxins into your home, and they leave a difficult cleanup job in their wake.

When you find yourself faced with sewer damage, here are some things you should do immediately upon discovering the damage to ensure your safety and get things under control until your local SERVPRO team arrives.

Evacuate anyone vulnerable from the area. This includes seniors, children, even pets—anyone who may suffer more readily from the toxins sewage can introduce into your home’s atmosphere. Keep them safely away from the backup area until restoration is complete.

Shut off your main water supply and electricity if it’s safe to do so. If you can get to your power panel and water main safely, use them to stop the flow of water and decrease the odds of your water backup causing an electrical fire. Don’t do this if your electrical panel is under water, or if you would have to stand in water to turn it off. If you can’t safely shut off your own power and water, call your utility companies and have them do it.

Open windows in the affected area to encourage ventilation and get some fresh air flowing in.

Document your situation and take lots of photos for your insurance company. Be sure to include any items that have sustained damage, as these will be important for your insurance claim process.

Add a little bleach to standing water, if you can do so safely, so that the chlorine in it can do some disinfecting work and prevent the spread of bacteria. Don’t touch stained or affected areas, and don’t come in contact with what could be very dangerous water.

Don’t forget to call SERVPRO. We’ll be there quickly, get things cleaned and managed thoroughly, and we can work with your insurance company on your behalf.

Regardless of the cause of your sewage problem, SERVPRO has the tools and techniques to make it "Like it never even happened."

Sewage backup is a serious problem, but we can take care of it and restore your home after the damage. Contact SERVPRO anytime to get the pros on your side.

A Fire Safety Checklist for Your Household

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

A Fire Safety Checklist can make all the difference in case of an emergency. Let SERVPRO of Douglasville help you get prepared.

It is important for any household to practice fire safety as a regular part of their routine. House fires can be both devastating and dangerous, and on average, those in the household will have less than three minutes to escape should a fire begin.

Fortunately, by being vigilant about the prevention of house fires, you can reduce the likelihood of you ever having to experience one. While there is no way to completely eradicate your risk, there are plenty of steps you can take to make your home less susceptible to accidental fires breaking out.

A Checklist for Household Fire Safety

Practicing fire safety is a great way to reduce your risk of experiencing a fire at your home. By referencing this simple checklist, you can be sure you are taking necessary precautions to keep your household safe.

**Smoke Alarms**

* Ensure that you have smoke alarms on each level of the home and in every sleeping area.

* Test smoke alarms each month and replace batteries as needed.

* Note the install date for all alarms and replace after 10 years, even if they are still operational.

**Cooking Safety**

* Be sure to never leave the stove or oven on unattended.

* Keep flammable items, such as towels and wooden utensils, three feet from the stove.

* Store a fire extinguisher prominently in the kitchen.

* Understand the difference between grease fires and other types of fires, and know the methods for extinguishing each.

**General Safety**

* Be sure your household has a fire escape plan that you practice at least twice per year.

* Ensure that every area of your home has at least two exits.

* Store any flammable chemicals in accordance with their label recommendations.

* Keep matches, lighters and other flammable objects away from young children.

* Do not leave candles lit if they are unattended. * Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from candles, space heaters or other sources of heat.

**Electrical Safety**

* Never overload electrical outlets or extension cords.

* Replace any frayed cords or wires immediately.

* Plug appliances and any heat-generating items directly into the wall, not into extension cords.

* If wall outlets ever feel warm to the touch, stop using them immediately and call an electrician.

*If you have damage from a fire, you can count on us to help. We are here 24/7 for restoration—contact us today to learn more about our processes.*

Dangers of Extreme Cold

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to be aware of the effect extremely cold temperatures can have on you.

While your place of business can get damaged due to winter weather and extreme cold, your personal health & the health of your customers is also at risk.

Fifty-three people died and three were injured due to extreme cold in 2015.

It is important to be aware of the effect extremely cold temperatures can have on you. The two main conditions to be aware of are frostbite and hypothermia.

Frostbite is caused when your skin is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Physical symptoms are white or grayish-yellow skin, skin that feels unusually firm, or waxy numbness.

Hypothermia is when your body temperature falls to an abnormally low temperature, caused from long exposure to cold weather. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. If someone’s body temperature is below 95°F, seek medical attention immediately.

To avoid these conditions, stay indoors if possible. If not, dress warm in layers and try to keep dry.

What to Do When You Need a Storm Shelter

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

If a storm should strike and do damage to your home, SERVPRO of Douglasville is here to help.

Some storms are worse than others—ask anyone who was around Conyers in April 1973, and they’ll likely have a crystal-clear story to tell you about the worst storm in Georgia history and what felt different about that day.

You can’t always see that kind of destruction coming, and the unfortunate truth is that some day a weather event may take place that may cause you to suddenly be in a place where staying or returning to your home isn’t a safe option.

In the following blog we’ll go through what you need to know—how to find a reputable shelter nearby, how to know if you’re eligible, what to bring and what to expect.

Find a reputable shelter, such as a Red Cross shelter. Red Cross shelters are free and open to absolutely anyone in need due to a disaster or emergency. Service animals (not pets) are also welcome, and the shelter can assist with food or supplies.

The Red Cross provides a searchable map on their website, which can help you find the nearest shelter. Additional shelters open during a crisis, so it always pays to check.

If you have special needs or have requests regarding food, supplies or religious requirements, the Red Cross volunteers will do what they can to accommodate you and make you comfortable.

You can bring certain items with you, such as bedding, clothing and medication. If you have children who have a beloved special stuffed animal or blanket, they are welcome to bring it for comfort.

You can also bring your own emergency kit. Of course, if you don’t have time to pack these things before you evacuate, or the emergency happens while you are away from your home, the shelter will do everything possible to get you what you need.

Don’t bring weapons, illegal drugs or alcohol to the shelter; they will not be allowed inside.

Your Red Cross shelter will provide a safe refuge from the storm or disaster event, food and water, first-aid and basic health services, as well as a laundry list of other helpful things like childcare, laundry and access to case workers who can assist you with recovery.

Red Cross shelters remain open until all guests have procured a safe place to stay, and they will help you as needed when you return home, or if you need assistance finding a temporary place to stay while your home is repaired.

There may be other shelters available in the event of an emergency as well, but you always know the Red Cross is a trustworthy sign of help in a crisis.

If a storm should strike and do damage to your home, SERVPRO is here to help. Contact us anytime to make a connection or find out how we can help restore or even rebuild your home after a weather emergency.

Flash Floods Are the Most Dangerous Natural Disaster We Encounter

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

If a flood causes water damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Douglasville has a custom solution.

Tornadoes, hurricanes and massive radar events get the headlines, and to be sure they are to be respected and prepared for—but the single most deadly weather event in the United States is the simple flash flood. Flash flooding causes more fatalities than any other weather disaster we experience.

Flash floods can destroy roads, take out trees, cause mudslides and even cause boulders to roll out of place. Rising floodwater can create walls of water dozens of feet in depth, carrying away cars and even demolishing structures and bridges.

Single flood events in the last 50 years have caused mass casualties and incurred hundreds of millions of dollars in damage per event.

Don’t take flooding for granted. Often we are tempted to disregard flooding as a potential threat because it seems like a less dangerous weather occurrence than, say, a tornado. This leads us to stay at home when we should evacuate, or to think we can safely drive through a flooded area, when in fact it’s incredibly dangerous to do so.

Create a family disaster plan. Make sure your entire family knows your area’s flood risk, and what to do should an alert be issued. Keep extra supplies at home for instances in which power may be lost or travel capability may become limited. Teach your family basic safety measures, including CPR, first aid and how to shut off your home’s main water valve.

Stay alert. Know your area’s flood risk, and your particular proximity to streams and rivers that may be in flood stage. Listen to area meteorologists and get weather alerts regarding potential flood dangers. Keep an NOAA battery-powered radio to get up-to-the-moment alerts from the National Weather Service. These may instruct you to evacuate or shelter in place.

Take action. When an alert is issued, know where to go and where not to go. A flash flood warning means flooding is already occurring, so you must act quickly to get out of harm’s way. Get to higher ground and avoid dips, washes and low-lying areas. Never drive through flooded areas—the floodwater can cover up all sorts of danger, included a completely washed-away road. It only takes six inches of moving water to get your car off its path, so don’t put yourself in danger to try and save a little time.

Flooding is an often-underestimated risk, but it continues to claim more lives than any other weather event. Don’t risk becoming a statistic. Always be ready for rough weather, and if a flood alert is issued, take action immediately.

If a flood or other weather event causes water damage to your home or business, we’ve got the custom solutions you need to get back in the dry. Contact SERVPRO today to see how we can help.

7 Tips for Workplace Fire Safety

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

If a fire should happen, remember the trusted name in restoration, SERVPRO of Douglasville.

Fire safety is a crucial part of running any business. Are you prepared? Run down this quick checklist to be sure.

1. Make an Emergency Action Plan. OSHA has a tool to help you comply with your workplace’s needed proper emergency standards and create an Emergency Action Plan to safely evacuate teams in a fire situation.

2. Train your teams. Once your plan is in place and you feel confident about its effectiveness, make sure your key leaders and teams know it by heart. You may only have about the time it takes to read this blog to escape a burning building, so it’s important that your leaders and teams know instinctively to spring into action.

3. Keep proper fire safety equipment maintained and ready. From fire extinguishers to sprinkler systems, emergency lighting, alarms and more, you’ve got a lot of helpful tools at the office, but they must be kept in good working order, easily accessible and ready to use. What’s more, your key leaders need working knowledge of the PASS Method and how to use any additional equipment.

4. Post all fire routes and exits visibly and clearly. Your exit routes should be carefully planned and then posted clearly, so that employees, customers and personnel can quickly see and understand them in a drill or emergency.

5. Conduct routine fire drills. Having a certain “muscle memory” for fire escapes is helpful, as time is a factor. Regular rehearsal of the plan can save time and even lives during an emergency, because your teams will be less prone to panic when they’re familiar with the drill.

6. Properly dispose any flammable materials. Letting papers or hazardous materials pile up around the workplace is only creating more dangerous fire scenarios and making a fire more likely to start or spread quickly. Always keep kitchens free of grease residue, and properly store or dispose of anything flammable that’s not mission-critical.

7. Eliminate electrical hazards at work. There are numerous potential hazards present at work, from poor grounding of equipment to faulty wiring or power cords. Always make sure any electrical system is properly installed, used and maintained to avoid a hazard.

If a fire should damage your workspace, we’re here to help. Call on SERVPRO to restore your property after a fire.

Why You Should Trust SERVPRO With Your Fire Damage Recovery

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville is your local fire restoration expert. No job is too big for our team of experts.

Dealing with a fire is one of the most taxing things a homeowner could possibly imagine.

Fire causes all kinds of damage in your home, and recovering from a home fire encompasses dealing with physical, financial, emotional and mental recovery.

While SERVPRO can’t help with all these areas, we can be your main source of property recovery and restoration. And we can get your home taken care of quickly, which can in turn aid in your emotional recovery as well.

Here’s why you know you can feel good about entrusting your fire recovery to us.

We’re Established.

We’ve been doing this a very long time. SERVPRO was established the same year Thurgood Marshall was appointed to the Supreme Court, if that gives you any idea.

That means we’ve got over 50 years’ experience helping families and homeowners deal with the effects of fire, and we’ll use all those years of innovation and experience to give you the most complete recovery possible.

We’re Skilled.

Your local SERVPRO employs a team of experts, trained and equipped to handle anything fire may have done to your home. From reversing the effects of smoke damage to full-blown rebuilding efforts, we have the tools and work ethic to get it done.

We’re always up to date on the latest technologies, innovations and certifications, which multiplies our capacity for tackling even the toughest recovery projects.

We’re Very Fast.

When you click this link or call (770) 483-1212, you’re getting connected with a local team who can be onsite right away to get started.

You don’t have to wait for a team from somewhere else to mosey down to Conyers—no, we’re right here on Culpepper Drive, which means when you need us, we’re the quickest option for your recovery. And we’re on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your emergency call.

When fire strikes at home, the choice is clear: SERVPRO is the name you can trust with your recovery and restoration.

If fire or other disasters do damage to your home, we’re here to make things right again. Contact us today to get fast, local recovery started on your property right away.

How Our Restoration-First Mentality Works for You

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

If you have damage to your home, SERVPRO of Douglasville is here to help.

If you have sustained damage to your home for the first time, you are likely to learn quite a bit about how the recovery process works. Not only are there logistical considerations to handle, but there is also the emotional impact of going through an event that damages your home, which can be significant.

Fortunately, working with the right restoration company can help you throughout the entire process. Not only can restoration save you money on costly insurance claims that can increase your premium, but it can also help your family heal more easily from the trauma. Read on to learn more about our restoration-first philosophy.

The Importance of a Restoration-First Philosophy

We are determined to save your belongings. While many people assume that everything they own will need to be liquidated after damages, when you work with us that is not necessarily the case. We have all the equipment necessary to clean, sanitize and deodorize objects after damage, allowing us to restore items that normally could not be salvaged. This is a cost-effective process compared to replacement and ensures that you will be able to hang onto the objects you already own and love if it is possible to do so.

We are determined to handle all the damage. The small touches make your house feel like a home, and when we handle restoration, we understand the importance of these little things. We handle all aspects of your damage, from the big, structural issues to small things like painting and refinishing floors. That way, you recognize your home as soon as you walk through the door.

We are determined to help you heal. The time after you sustain household damage can be tumultuous, especially if you have to leave the home for the restoration to take place. We understand this, which is why we work as quickly as possible to get your damages taken care of so you can return home.

If you have damage to your home, we are here to help. You can get in touch at any time to report damage with our ²⁴⁄₇ emergency line. Contact us today to learn more.

Do You Have Dirty Ducts?

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO® of Douglasville today.

Did you know your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? Inspecting the ductwork in your facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO® of Douglasville's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO® of Douglasville will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, SERVPRO® of Douglasville can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

If you have a fuel-burning furnace, stove or fireplace, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.

The SERVPRO® Duct Cleaning System is proven and cost-efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO® of Douglasville uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

• The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
• Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.
• As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
• Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO® of Douglasville today. 

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 30, Iss 4

Why It Makes Sense to Work With a Professional Restoration Company

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

If you have damage to your commercial property, we hope you will consider using SERVPRO of Douglasville for restoration.

There are few things more disruptive to your life than damages to your home. Not only can they be difficult to deal with from a logistical level, but the emotions associated with damage that is due to a disaster can understandably lead to long-lasting issues for everyone who experienced it.

During the aftermath, there are many difficulties that can arise—but if you work with a professional restoration company, the entire process can be made much easier to handle. Not only will a restoration company ensure that your damage is handled, but they can also work with your insurance on your behalf and make sure that any items that could possibly be saved will be.

Why to Consider Working With a Restoration Company After Damages

We can work with your insurance. Paperwork and documentation are often some of the most difficult things to deal with after damage occurs to your home, but when you work with us for restoration, we can work with your insurance on your behalf. Insurance claims can be expensive to file, which can cost you money in the long run, but we will work with your insurance to keep your claim amount as low as possible and reduce your stress.

We take a restore-first mentality. If you have to suddenly leave your home due to an emergency or damages, you will likely only have time to grab the essentials—leaving many items of sentiment behind. That is why we take a restore-first mentality, instead of simply recommending replacement. We do our best to save your items with our highly technical restoration equipment and only recommend full replacement as a last resort.

We handle all aspects of the restoration. There are many small touches that make a house a home, and we believe the cosmetic details are one of them. We will handle all the little things at the end of your restoration to make sure your home looks exactly as it did pre-damage, from paint colors to doorknobs and everything in between.

If you have damage to your commercial property, we hope you will consider using us for restoration. We are here ²⁴⁄₇ to take your call and begin the restoration process. Contact us today to learn more or get started.

Why We Approach All Damages With a Restoration-First Mindset

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

If you have sustained damage and are not sure what comes next, you can depend on SERVPRO of Douglasville to help you with the restoration process.

If you sustain damage to your home, whether it be due to a fire, a flood or some other type of scenario, it can be difficult to know what comes next. Many people who have never had serious damages before might assume that a damaged area must be completely rebuilt and that all items must be liquidated and replaced—but when you work with us, that is not necessarily the case.

When we approach household damages, we do so with a restoration-first mindset. After helping countless families in the area recover from various damages, we understand how helpful it is to have your items restored instead of replaced.

Not only are many things irreplaceable due to sentimental value, but being able to keep your belongings also saves you time and money as your family works on recovering emotionally from the event.

The Benefits of Our Restoration-Focused Approach

We can salvage many irreplaceable items. While an insurance adjuster can easily come in and provide you with a dollar value for everything in your home, we understand that it is not always that simple. Objects such as family heirlooms and photographs could never be replaced for any amount of money, which is why we will do everything we are able to restore them instead.

We are able to work with your insurance. If you are able to claim damages on your insurance, such as in the event of water damage, you certainly should—however, this can lead to a higher premium as a result. We will work directly with your insurance to lower the costs with restoration instead of liquidation to save you money.

We can make your items safe for use again. There are many things to consider when an object is damaged by fire and water, such as lingering smoke and soot odors or the possibility of mold beginning to grow. However, we have the technology to make sure your items are totally safe to use once more. We can clean, deodorize and sanitize your items so you can be certain they are safe for your family to use.

If you have sustained damage and are not sure what comes next, you can depend on us. Contact us at any hour to see how we can help you with every aspect of the restoration process.

8 Things to Do After a House Fire

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

When facing a fire at your home, trust SERVPRO of Douglasville to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

8 Things to Do After a House Fire

Moving on after a house fire can seem daunting—in fact, sometimes it can feel downright impossible. But it doesn’t have to. Knowing where to begin and who can help you is a crucial first step in putting your life back together.

If you’ve just suffered a house fire, follow these eight steps to help you and your family through this difficult time.  

Find a Place to Stay

House fires are a terrifying experience, especially for children and pets. Finding a safe and comfortable place to relocate—even if it’s only for one night—will help you plan your next steps and give your family time to rest.

If staying at a hotel or with friends or family isn’t available, reach out to your local disaster relief agency like the American Red Cross or Salvation Army. Many times, these organizations can provide temporary shelter for free.

Contact Your Insurance Agent

File your claim immediately. The sooner you alert your insurance carrier, the sooner you can begin repairs or searching for a new home. Many carriers also provide help for daily expenses known as loss of use funds. These are especially useful if you lost your credit or debit cards in the fire.

Your agent can also help you find cleaning or abatement services.

Contact the Police

Empty homes—even those with fire damage—can be attractive locations for squatters and looters. Alerting local police to your fire will ensure your property remains safe during your absence. Boarding up windows and doors will provide an additional layer of security. You can tackle this job yourself or hire a pro.

The cost to board your windows will range from between $20 and $100 per window. Prices will vary based on the number and size of windows, and whether you hire a pro or not. Be sure to check with your fire department to ensure the home is safe to enter before beginning this job.

Plan Your Finances

Financial responsibilities will continue regardless of your fire. Many insurance policies cover mortgages, but it’s important to check on other recurring costs like car payments as well. Additionally, consider canceling cable and internet services if you won’t be in your home for several months. If you’re planning to front the costs of abatement, you can expect to pay between $800 and $25,300+.

It’s common to lose possessions like cooking equipment and clothing in the fire, too. Keep your receipts when replacing these items to ensure you’re quickly reimbursed. These can be pricey purchases if made at once for several family members.

Create a List of Damaged Items

Making a list of items—both big and small—that were lost or damaged in the fire will ensure you’re reimbursed. Many carriers will require detailed information like make and model, serial numbers, and receipts. This can be difficult if your home was completely destroyed, or you don’t yet have access to it. If you have a computer, searching online bank statements can help you present proof of purchase and exact costs.

It’s also critical to make a list of important documents that were lost in the fire. Items like drivers’ licenses, birth certificates, passports, titles and deeds, medical records, tax information, etc., will need to be replaced immediately. Your agent will let you know which items are necessary for your claim. Replace those first. 

Check on the Safety of Your Home

House fires can weaken the structural integrity of your home and leave behind noxious fumes from burned materials. If you need to return home to recover items, wait until a fire marshal has deemed the area safe. Aside from being dangerous, re-entering your home too soon can also void parts of your insurance policy—which can cause major problems when it comes to getting reimbursed later. Only enter your home once it’s deemed safe by the fire department and your insurance carrier.

Save Undamaged Possessions

If your home was partially damaged and deemed safe to re-enter, go back and remove anything that wasn’t affected by the fire. It’s also recommended to clean items after they’re removed from the house. Professional cleaning services have the experience and tools necessary to restore fire-affected items.

Many homeowners rent a storage unit to house salvageable items. Leaving possessions in your home can cause further damage and make it difficult for your abatement and repair crews to work. Most homeowners pay between $40 and $225 a month for storage units. Size and extras like climate control will affect pricing.

Wait to Turn on Utilities

In some cases, firefighters will turn off utilities to prevent further damage. If your utilities are disconnected, contact your fire department and utility provider before turning them on again. Connecting unsafe utilities can cause additional fires, gas leaks, and severe water damage. Have a professional inspect your home before attempting to turn on your utilities. 

Carbon Monoxide: A Silent Cold-Weather Killer

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Carbon monoxide is a gas you cannot see, taste, or smell. According to ready.gov, an average of 430 Americans die each year from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning. Oftentimes, it is a result of faulty, improperly used, or vented consumer products like furnaces, ranges, water heaters, room heaters, and engine-powered equipment, such as portable generators.

However, there are precautions you can take to help protect yourself, your family, and your employees from deadly carbon monoxide fumes. 

Reduce the chance of carbon monoxide exposure in your workplace by performing regular maintenance on equipment and appliances that can produce carbon monoxide. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home, including outside of all bedrooms. 

Consider having all fuel-burning heating equipment and chimneys serviced annually by a professional. Use portable generators on in well-ventilated areas aware from doors, windows, vents, and any other openings to prevent fumes from entering the home.

For additional carbon monoxide safety information, visit usfa.fema.gov or osha.gov.

Signs That You May Have Storm Damage to Your Home

9/18/2021 (Permalink)

Sustaining storm damage to your home is never a fun experience. While some damages are certainly more severe than others, whatever the issue is, you will want to have it quickly addressed in order to avoid the issue compounding and creating more damages down the road.

Unfortunately, many damages can be invisible until they become severe, even with performing storm inspections after each one moves through. Fortunately, there are still some signs that damage may present, and if you know what to look for, you can often catch them much more quickly.

What to Look for That May Indicate Household Storm Damage

A damp, musty smell. If water damage is seeping into your house somewhere, you will often notice a damp or musty smell in the area where it is present. This is extremely common in basements or attics that may have leaks around their perimeter that have yet to be noticed, so if things start to feel damp in any of your rooms, you may want to look more closely.

Warping wood around windows or doors. If there are issues with the weatherproofing seals around your windows and doors, water may be seeping in from the outside but not showing up on the inside of the home. However, if you notice the windowsills or door frames becoming warped, swollen or otherwise misshapen, this can be a sign that there is water leaking in somewhere that should be addressed.

Damage to your ceiling in the home. If you do not have attic access, it can be difficult to do a full inspection of your roof after every storm, as checking the attic is always recommended. However, if you notice dark or sagging spots on the ceiling below the attic, this is a good sign that you might have roof damage that has led to a leak.

Peeling paint. Moisture damage will manifest in a number of ways, and peeling paint is one of them. Paint will begin to peel due to moisture and humidity, especially around where the ceiling meets the wall.

If you suspect storm damage in your home, we can come check it out and help you get to the bottom of it. You can call us any time to receive quick service from our expert technicians—get in touch today to learn more.

Why the Emergency READY Profile®?

9/18/2021 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month is the perfect opportunity to share the benefits of having a readiness plan in place with your customers, business, and family.

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.”

In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or tablet; download SERVPRO’s free Ready Plan app to access this information at any time using your smartphone or tablet.

The ERP establishes SERVPRO® of Douglasville as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 50 years experience and a system more than 1,850 franchises strong. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan for it. 

Call SERVPRO® of Douglasville to establish your very own Emergency READY Profile®!

*Restoration Newsline Vol 32, Iss 9

Sneaky Ways Leaks Can Hide From Homeowners

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

If you discover water damage from a hidden leak in your home, SERVPRO of Douglasville is here to help.

Discovering that your home has a water leak is always a frustrating experience, but if you
discover that a leak has evaded you for an extended period of time? That can be extra
annoying!

While many leaks will make themselves known quickly so that homeowners can address them,
there are sneaky places that a leak can hide in plain sight for ages until it is finally discovered—but by then, the water damage will be done.

Not only can the water damage from leaks be frustrating to have repaired, but it can also be
costly. It is estimated that household leaks account for 10,000 wasted gallons of water every
single year.

Fortunately, by checking for leaks in these common hiding places, you can be certain you are not missing any that will lead to major restoration requirements later on! Read on to get your checklist of places to inspect in your home regularly.
Places to Check for Sneaky Household Leaks

Around your tub and shower inserts. Did you know that splash leaks are the most common
type of bathroom leak there is? Splash leaks occur when water escapes outside of your tub or
shower door and impacts an area that is not equipped to deal with water. Often, the seal at the bottom of your tub insert will be the biggest victim, as water can work its way into this crack and damage your floor and subfloor. Caulking over this area and any others in the splash zone
regularly can put a stop to errant droplets causing issues.

Around the base of your bathroom toilet. Leaks from the toilet flange (where the toilet meets the waste pipe in the floor) are especially insidious because they grow worse with every flush but are often not noticed until they become severe. If you notice that the toilet rocks slightly, that there is staining around it on the floor or that there is an issue with the ground feeling spongy around the toilet, that may be a sign that you have a toilet flange leak on your hands.

Around your outdoor spigots. The spigots around your home are convenient when it comes
to gardening and watering the lawn, but they can also be common culprits of hidden water damage. Because these spigots are exposed to fluctuating temperatures, they can age quickly, so check the area regularly to spot any hidden leaks early on.

If you discover water damage from a hidden leak in your home, we are here to help. Contact us
today to learn more about our water damage restoration services for homeowners.

September is National Preparedness Month

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO® of Douglasville professionals to find out more on how to be ready when a disaster strikes with the Emergency READY Program®.

As a business owner, insurer or property manager, you are a leader in your community and have the opportunity to set an example for your employees, policyholders, and customers to follow.

September is National Preparedness Month (NPM). This year for NPM, join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading the efforts to encourage your community as a whole to become more prepared. Disasters happen?and not only do they devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities, including local businesses of all sizes.

The 2021 theme is "Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love."

As an employer in your community, having a business continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees, and its infrastructure, and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster happens. You can do this by taking three simple steps:

• Plan to stay in business
• Encourage your employees to become ready
• Protect your investment

We must work together to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship, and neighborhoods are ready for the unthinkable.

There are many supporting resources available at ready.gov/september where you can find vital information on how to begin preparing your business for a disaster, as well as addressing unique needs during an emergency situation. You can also contact SERVPRO® of Douglasville professionals to find out more on how to be ready when a disaster strikes with the Emergency READY Program®.

*Restoration Newsline Vol 32, Iss 9

How Grill Fires Get Out of Hand

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

If your home has been damaged due to a fire, you can count on SERVPRO of Douglasville to help you out with our proven fire restoration techniques.

If you love to grill as much as we do, hearing about a grill fire taking place can be quite alarming. There are many reasons why grill fires can start, and they are far more common than people typically realize—the U.S. Fire Administration has found nearly 6,000 grill fires occur each year, with the most instances occurring during the summer.

While grill fires can happen to anyone, regardless of how careful they are being, taking the proper precautions can significantly reduce the chances that they will occur at your next cookout. Below, we examine the science of how these fires spread so you can consider how to best prevent them when you grill.

How Grill Fires Spread and Cause Damage

A grease fire starts due to improper cleaning. Cleaning your grill is one of the most important parts of grill owner maintenance, both because it helps your food cook better and reduces the chances that you will have a fire. If your grill grates and grease traps are not cleaned, a grease fire can start and quickly envelop your grill. You should always grill with a fire extinguisher nearby just in case, but cleaning your grill is the best step to prevention.

A flare-up ignites an object too close to the grill. Flare-ups are a normal part of grilling and they are typically not severe. Unfortunately, if you have your grill too close to a flammable object, a small flare-up can cause a disastrous fire. It is recommended you keep at least three feet around your grill empty of all flammable materials—this includes porches, siding and plants, as well as children or pets that could get injured.

An accident happened with an unattended grill. Fires can start and spread with a moment’s notice, and if your grill is unattended when one happens, you may not notice it until it has become too late. Never leaving your grill unattended is the best choice—even if you are just taking a quick break, always have someone take your place and watch it.

If your home has been damaged due to a fire, you can count on us to help you out with our proven fire restoration techniques. Learn more today and get in touch at any time of day to receive a quick response from our experienced team.

A ‘Go Bag’ Can Make All the Difference in an Emergency

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

A go bag is a packed case that you grab on your way out the door, and that will help keep you safe and comfortable in the coming hours and days.

Recent natural catastrophes, from hurricanes to western wildfires, are a fresh reminder that disaster can strike at any time. And no area of the country is immune, when you factor in the threat of tornadoes, earthquakes and human disasters like toxic spills. While the circumstances may differ, there’s one tip that every person needs to take from all these situations: how to pack a “go bag.”

A go bag is a packed case that you grab on your way out the door, and that will help keep you safe and comfortable in the coming hours and days. Stopping to hunt for your medications or other important needs can cost you critical seconds in an evacuation. Pack a separate go bag for yourself and every member of your household, and keep them stored in the same location.

I’ve interviewed hundreds of disaster victims, and compiled their recommendations below.

Basic electronics
Pack an extra phone charger in case you’re fortunate enough to have electricity, and a portable battery pack in case you’re not. Also stash a long-lasting LED flashlight. Pack a small hand-cranked or battery-operated AM/FM radio (with extra batteries).

Personal needs
While getting ready for a typical day, list every toiletry you use, then buy a travel-size version of each. Pack backup eyeglasses, as well as a first-aid kit, baby wipes and a multipurpose tool with a knife and can opener.

Clothing
Pack a few days’ worth. Include layers you can add or remove, plus lightweight rain gear and waterproof boots.

Your meds
Pack about three days’ worth of each of your prescriptions, which should last until you can get to a pharmacy that’s open. If you need larger items, such as an oxygen tank, make sure you have a portable version.

The perfect bag
Think small and portable. A backpack is ideal, but a lightweight suitcase with wheels will also do. Just remember, you may literally be running with it.

Paperwork
Fill a zip-top waterproof bag with photocopies of your birth certificate; driver’s license; Social Security and Medicare cards; power of attorney and will; any marriage, adoption or naturalization certificates; proof of address; insurance, medical and immunization records; and information about your credit and ATM cards.

Food and drink
Bottled water is essential. Granola or energy bars are great because they are small and filling, and they come in a variety of flavors.

Cash
In addition to enough money for a few days, include small bills and a roll of quarters. If you need to buy something out of a vending machine, you don’t want to start asking equally desperate strangers for change.

Understanding Your Insurance

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

Knowing what your policy covers is the first step in making a disaster "Like it never even happened."

There are many simple actions you can take now to prepare yourself and your property for a disaster. Understanding your insurance needs is an important step to prepare in advance!

Getting the right type and amount of insurance may mean the difference between a quick recovery from disaster and years of financial challenges. Take the following actions now to find and secure the appropriate insurance policies to protect your family's financial health.

Different lines of insurance are available to cover the many types of potential damage caused by a disaster. Homeowners' and renters' insurance policies usually give you the following areas of coverage:

• Dwelling: coverage of your house
• Other Structures: coverage for structures such as garages, decks, and fences
• Personal Property: coverage for items such as furniture, clothing, and appliances
• Loss-of-Use: payments if you need to move temporarily due to covered damage
• Personal Liability: coverage for accidents happening on your property
• Medical Protection: payments for someone who is injured on your property
• Property Damage to Others: coverage if you accidently break or damage someone else's property

Many landlords and property management companies will want to see proof of a renter's insurance when you sign a lease. If you own a business, you will need to purchase business (or commercial) insurance to protect your property and employees.

Manufactured homes, condos, and farms have special insurance policies. Your bank or mortgage lender may also have minimum insurance requirements as a condition of your loan. Always make sure you have enough coverage to rebuild or replace what you lose if a disaster strikes!

What's Covered?

The insurance industry identifies a cause of loss, such as fi re or theft, as a "peril." Insurance only applies when your policy covers the peril that caused the loss. Be sure to check your policy to see which perils it covers, and in what situations. A homeowner's policy may cover different perils for the house and for personal property. Th e policy may also have different deductibles based on the peril.

Always check your individual policy for specific details. For example, basic property insurance policies may not cover losses caused by flooding, wind, earthquakes, terrorism, or pollution.

Flooding is the most common and costly disaster in the U.S.! Talk with your local insurance agent if your property is at risk for flooding or mudflows, including flooding caused by hurricanes or earthquakes. Other flooding impacts, such as mold or mildew damage, can also be covered with basic property insurance, but may have a limited amount of loss payable.

Visit ready.gov for more risk mitigation resources.

*Restoration Newsline Vol 32, Iss 8

Damage Due to Vandalism

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies, SERVPRO® of Douglasville also offers fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup* and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers, and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

SERVPRO® of Douglasville professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO® of Douglasville helps turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.

SERVPRO® of Douglasville can help with the following issues:

• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson
• Vandalism 
• Sewage Backups 
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

State and local regulations vary. Contact SERVPRO® of Douglasville today at 770-489-5659 for 24-hour emergency service.

*Services vary by location

**Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 29, Iss 6

Tips for Preparing Your Business for an Emergency Situation

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

If your business is damaged due to a disaster or an emergency, SERVPRO of Douglasville is here for you.

If you own your own business, you understand the importance of planning ahead to set yourself up for success—but have you considered the need to plan ahead for an emergency scenario? The frequency with which disasters occur continues to rise, and being prepared for any scenario is the best defense business owners have against them.

Understanding how to prepare your business can help you recover far more quickly after an emergency and get your doors reopened faster after a disaster.

How to Prepare Your Business for an Emergency

Review the details of your insurance policy. The average commercial insurance policy provides many standard coverages, but it also leaves quite a bit of scenarios out, requiring business owners to purchase additional coverage for situations such as floods, income interruption and gaps in your policy. It is smart to review your insurance policy through the lens of disaster preparedness planning to learn about any gaps in coverage you may have.

Make sure your documents are backed up and stored well. Having the right documentation on hand after a disaster will make the recovery process much easier, but have you considered the correct way to store them? Many files are digital now, so you should make sure you have a cloud backup or hard copy in case your computer gets damaged in a disaster. If you have physical documents you may need, make copies of those and store them securely in a secondary location.

Be sure you have an evacuation plan. If a flood or other natural disaster is incoming, officials will normally recommend a rapid evacuation so that everyone can get to safety. Be sure you have an evacuation plan that includes well-marked evacuation routes and a headcount system to make sure everyone is accounted for, and make certain that you have rehearsed often with staff. This serves to reduce panic in the moment as well as your overall liability, and equips everyone to move to safety calmly and quickly in an emergency.

If your business is damaged due to a disaster or an emergency, we are here for you. You can contact us any time to learn more about commercial restoration and how we can help.

Training Your Employees on Fire Safety in the Workplace

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage to your business, you can depend on SERVPRO of Douglasville.

Owning a business presents a large liability for multiple reasons. While you have many things you must plan for, planning for an emergency event such as a fire should certainly be part of your routine. Every year, fires lead to around $10 billion in overall damages, and if your business is not prepared before one happens, these damages can devastate you.

One of the best ways to boost the overall fire safety of your workplace is by training your employees to be conscious about it. When they are empowered to practice fire safety themselves, you can significantly lower your risk and ensure everyone is working together to create a safer office space.

Tips to Empower Your Employees to Be Fire-Safe

Create a fire safety committee. Installing a properly equipped fire safety committee in your office is a great way to tackle fire safety problems and allow you to delegate some of the planning so it does not all fall on you. A fire safety committee can plan evacuation drills, suggest improvements around the office and communicate other fire safety efforts with the staff at large so everyone is in the loop.

Make sure everyone knows the fire protocol. Fire alarms can incite panic in even the most prepared of individuals, but knowing what to do can significantly reduce the fearful instincts they might inspire. Be sure that you have regular workplace fire evacuation drills in order to help your employees be prepared for a real-world fire scenario. Everyone in your building should feel comfortable navigating emergency exit routes and getting to safety when a fire starts anywhere in the building.

Have a fire extinguisher seminar regularly. Fire extinguishers are an effective way to stop an electrical or other small fire in its tracks before it becomes out of hand—but only if your staff knows how to use them. Make sure to train everyone on their operation (you can often have local fire officials pay a visit to do this), and clearly mark where they are throughout the office so everyone is empowered to take action at the first sight of a spark.

If you have fire damage to your business, you can depend on us. Contact us at any hour to learn about our commercial restoration process.

How to Prepare Before a Storm

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville is your storm damage cleanup expert.

Before a storm strikes, follow these safety measures to ensure your family and home are safe. You’ll also want to prepare an Emergency Supply Kit to get each person through three days should you lose power or have no running water.

Follow these steps to prepare for when a storm hits:

• In warm weather, turn your air conditioning down. In cold weather, turn your heat up. During and after the storm, keep doors and windows closed - you can retain inside temperature for as long as 48 hours.
• Charge your cell phone and other devices that need to be charged.
• Keep freezer doors closed and sealed. Frozen food will keep two or three days in a well-filled freezer.
• Leave a porch or front light on. This helps our crews know when repair work is successful.

Disconnect or turn off any appliances that will start automatically when power is restored to avoid overloading circuits. Hot appliances pose a fire hazard, including:
• Electric space heaters
• Stoves
• Washers and dryers
• TVs
• Microwave ovens
• Computers
• Refrigerators and freezers

* Courtesy of Georgia Power 

Our Thorough Water Damage Inspection Process

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

If you have had water damage to your home, you can count on SERVPRO of Douglasville to help you recover.

When you call us for water damage, you can be certain that you will receive a complete water restoration process that addresses all possible points of damage. One of the ways that we ensure this is by doing a complete and thorough inspection during our water damage restoration process.

Once you get in touch with us, our highly trained technicians will respond quickly and do a full inspection to create a water damage restoration plan. Here’s how it works:

1. Identify and Stop Continuing Water Flow

If the water is due to something such as a broken pipe or plumbing issue, it is possible that moisture may still be seeping into the area undetected. We will do a complete assessment to determine if there is still an active flow of water due to a leak and if so, we will stop it to prevent any further damage from occurring.

2. Define the Classification of Water

Understanding the categorical classification of the water damage will help us determine the severity and how to proceed with the repairs. There are three types of water damage categories that are possible when damage is present.

• Category 1 Water consists of clean water that is not contaminated.
• Category 2 Water is contaminated with chemical or biological byproducts, which can be common after dishwashers or sump pumps overflow.
• Category 3 Water is severely contaminated, often caused by floods or sewage overflows, and can cause serious health issues.

3. Inspect the Area and Determine the Extent of the Damage

Water damage can be especially tricky because it can impact areas that are not immediately visible to the naked eye. Moisture can seep into drywall and impact the structure of the home, which can also affect adjacent rooms that were not touched by flooding. We will do a full inspection to determine just how far-reaching the damage is so you can have a full and complete restoration that leaves no affected area untreated.

If you have had water damage to your home, you can count on us to help you recover. Contact us at any hour to set our water damage restoration plan in motion.

Science of Drying

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Douglasville professionals have the training and equipment to help make water damage "Like it never even happened."

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO® of Douglasville professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. If your home or business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO® of Douglasville will inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening; measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly; and speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

What exactly does it mean to help "speed up Mother Nature?" A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material?but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out.

SERVPRO® of Douglasville has the tools to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. SERVPRO® also uses state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help accelerate the drying of your home or business.

It's not only the equipment, but the technology too! SERVPRO® pf Douglasville utilizes DryBook™, a proprietary tool that provides real-time documentation and updates on the drying process and helps ensure industry drying requirements are met. With DryBook™ Mobile, you have the ability to know exactly where your property is in the drying process.

The bottom line? SERVPRO® of Douglasville professionals have the training and equipment to help make water damage "Like it never even happened." 

*Source Restoration Newsline Vol 32, Iss 7

Summer Safety

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Summer is full of fun and new adventures. Follow safety guidelines to ensure a good time is had by all.

SERVPRO® hopes you stay safe and have an awesome summer. Consider the following tips, provided by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), to keep you and your family safe.

• When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluids designed for barbecue grills; do not add fluid after coals have been lit.
• When using a gas grill, ensure the hose connection is tight; check hoses for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.
• When camping, always use a flame-retardant tent and set up camp far away from the campfire.
• Always build a campfire downwind from the tent area. Clear vegetation and dig a pit before building your fire. Extinguish the fire before going to sleep or leaving the campsite.
• Store liquid fire starter (not gasoline) away from your tent and campfire and only use dry kindling to freshen an existing campfire.

Summer is full of fun and new adventures. Whatever your adventure, follow all safety guidelines to ensure a good time is had by all.

*Source Restoration Newsline Vol 32, Iss 6

Restoring Your Business After a Flood

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville is your local restoration experts for restoring your business following a flood.

Floods can be miserable ordeals, even with extensive preparation. They can spring up with little to no warning and saddle you with the responsibility of a lengthy, expensive restoration period. Your business could be
underwater in a flash, and you could be faced with mounting repair bills and extended interruption to your business.

But floods can also be regenerative. Large-scale damage to your business is an opportunity to rebuild and minimize potential damage and disruption that could be caused by future floods. If your business has sustained flood damage, do not panic. Think of it as a chance to fortify your business against future flood damage rather than nothing but a ruinous misfortune.

Cleaning Up After a Flood

Once floodwaters start to recede, you may want to immediately get your hands dirty and start the cleanup effort. Fight that urge. Never re-enter premises until you are absolutely sure they are safe. Floods leave multiple hazards in their wake, such as exposed wires, weakened buildings and contaminated water. Your first priority should be the safety of yourself, your employees and anyone else who might enter or pass near your business.

Local insurers often visit flood-damaged premises and offer guidance after floodwaters start to retreat. Until then, use extreme caution when visiting your business.

Before entering your flood-damaged building:

• Notify your insurer. Take pictures of contents and damage for your insurer—the more the better—but only if it is safe to do so.
• Turn off your building’s gas and electricity, and any fuel taps. Never touch sources of electricity when standing in floodwater.
• Check for structural damage before entering the building. Do not enter if there is any chance it may collapse.
• Assume that all water-damaged structures are unstable until proven otherwise.
• Treat all stairs, floors, roofs and overhangs as unsafe until inspected.

Your insurer will send a loss adjuster and other specialists to assess your business’ damage. After ensuring that your property is stable, it is time to get dirty.

When beginning cleanup efforts, follow this guidance:

• Ensure you and your employees follow every health and safety precaution, such as wearing boots, rubber gloves and other personal protective clothing.
• Use caution when handling debris—it may be contaminated or harbor unseen sharp objects.
• Dispose of equipment only after notifying your insurer.
• Disinfect your property with ordinary household cleaners, but follow the manufacturer’s directions to ensure you are disinfecting properly. Let cleaned surfaces dry completely.
• Open a window and leave the building if you smell gas or hear blowing or hissing—these may be signs of a gas leak.
• Operate electrical equipment only if the ground is dry—never operate electrical equipment that is in or near water.
• Clean any water taps that were submerged in contaminated floodwater with a bleach solution. Let the water run for 30 seconds prior to using it.
• Drain water in stages to avoid disparity between the water pressure inside and outside your building.
• Shovel mud out in stages so the pressure inside and outside remains equal. Remove the rest with a hose, but make sure it is not a high-pressure one—these hoses can blast contaminants into the air.
• Use a pump and generator to remove water. Position the generator outside in the open air if it produces carbon monoxide. Only pump out water once the flood levels outside your property are lower than inside.
• Keep windows and doors open, weather permitting, to expedite drying, but never sacrifice building security.
• Dry your building using a combination of fans, industrial heaters and dehumidifiers. Your insurer may provide these tools.
• Leave central heating on at 68° F or above to encourage drying if it is safe.

Upgrading After a Flood

Make the most out of an unfortunate situation by using your flood damage as an opportunity to repair your property with flood-resistant products. Consider installing the following flood-resistant precautions:

• Pumps and pump systems sit below the ground floor to remove water that enters from the ground.
• Flood skirts which act as barriers around any potential inlet for water.
• One-way valves fit to water pipes to prevent water backing up into your property.
• Water-resistant sealants refer to a wide variety of sealants—you can use them all over your property.
• Plastic fittings in kitchen or lavatory areas are more durable than reconstituted wood, which disintegrates in a flood.
• Electrical sockets, fuse boxes and wiring should sit at least 12 inches above the 100-year flood level in your area to prevent water damage.
• High shelving is a convenient option for ensuring you have an area above floodwater to store valuable items.

No matter what you install, the ultimate preparation for a flood is proper insurance. Remember that your damaged stock and premises will not be the only setback you suffer from a flood—interruption to your business’ continuity can be fatal. Purchase a comprehensive policy tailored to your specific industry and location that accounts for business interruption. Taking risk-reduction measures may help cut down your premium or excess.

The Most Common Types of Water Damage in Your Home

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville is your local water restoration experts. We have the tools and technology to handle any restoration.

For most of us, the specific types of nomenclature for water damage in our homes are not as important as the need to just have it prevented, fixed or restored. However to certain people (like your insurance agent), these differentiations are very important.

The specific instance and cause of your water issue could make the difference in whether the repair gets paid for by your insurance company.

So, let’s break it down into the three types of damage you’ll need to know about when reporting water damage to your insurance—and then you should double-check your policy to see which you’re covered for, so you don’t get surprised if one of them becomes suddenly very relevant.

The 3 Delineations of Water Damage

Sewer or water backup. The other types of damage may have more potential for destruction, but this one is the most potentially toxic, and let’s face it, the yuckiest. Sewer or water backup is what happens when water from sewer pipes or drainage systems gets pushed back up into your home. The causes range from aging or degrading sewer systems to blockages in sewer lines due to thirsty tree roots that find a crack in a pipe.

This type of claim also encompasses damage from backup of rainwater and debris caused by blocked gutters or rainwater pipes.

Overflow and discharge. The dishwasher explodes. The pipes freeze. The washing machine overflows or the kids forget the bath is running. These are the types of damage caused by overflow and discharge. When water is released or bursts from plumbing or appliances, and there’s a sudden emanation of water, this is the type of claim you’re looking at.

Flood. This one is sometimes confused with overflow, because we tend to say things like, “My water heater burst and now my basement is flooded.” But for insurance and damage purposes, the definition of a flood event is more environmental—“a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or of two or more properties.” In other words, it’s not truly considered a flood unless a rainstorm or other natural occurrence causes it.

No matter the cause of your water damage, we have the tools, the tech and the training to restore your home to its original state. Call or click when you need us on the scene, or simply to find out how we can help.

Spotlight on: Document Restoration

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville can restore your documents following a water or fire to prevent the loss of important information.

As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO® of Douglasville knows timely mitigation is the key to reducing severity and recovering damaged items. Water-damaged paper goods can rapidly deteriorate. Without proper handling, valuable files and irreplaceable documents could be lost forever. Let SERVPRO's Document Restoration Team help you recover your damaged paper goods before it is too late.

Vacuum freeze drying is the most efficient and effective way to salvage water-damaged documents. SERVPRO® of Douglasville uses sublimation, turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage, to avoid causing more damage to the documents. An example of sublimation is dry ice: dry ice is made of carbon dioxide (not water.) When dry ice is exposed to normal atmospheric conditions, it begins to sublimate?it turns directly from its solid stage into its gaseous stage, bypassing the liquid stage.

This process can recover even the most delicate items, from documents to photographs and x-rays, to entire business archives. SERVPRO's goal is to make this process as simple as possible for our customers!

*Restoration Newsline Vol 32, Iss 7

What to Do After a Flash Flood

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville is your local water restoration experts. We have around-the-clock service for emergencies.

July in the greater Atlanta area typically involves over 16 days of expected rain—that’s over half the month. And while the average rainfall amount from those days isn’t anything overwhelming, there’s always a chance that one of those rainy Georgia days could turn into something unexpected.

A flood warning is issued. Suddenly water is crossing roads, creeks are backing up and the weatherperson is warning you about dangerous conditions outside.

Water’s pouring into the basement or garage, and now you’ve got ruined carpet, flooded rooms and other issues. You’ve taken shelter on higher ground if necessary, you’ve stayed off the roads and away from rushing water. Your family is safe, and you’ve got an emergency kit prepared for power loss or perished food.

But when the waters recede and the flooding is over, what are your next steps?

First of all, and most importantly, be safety-conscious. If you have time before water starts coming in, unplug your appliances.

If standing water is in your home near appliances that are still plugged in, leave them be. Attempting to unplug them can result in fatal electric shock, because they may charge the water surrounding you.

If perishable food has been touched by flood water, consider it unsafe and throw it out. Also boil any tap water before drinking until you know it’s safe and uncontaminated with flood water.

Depending on the amount of water present, you may be able to take care of the drainage yourself if your home has a sump pump, or even a wet/dry vac. But if the damage from a flash flood is more than you can manage, or if it has caused other issues that need your attention, don’t wait—call the water damage technicians at SERVPRO of Douglasville.

With a locally owned and operated office nearby and ²⁴⁄₇ emergency services, we can be onsite quickly to mitigate damage, prevent further damage and restore your basement or garage to its original state.

With highly advanced technology, skilled technicians and around-the-clock service for emergencies, we’ve got the tools and the people to get the job done. Get in touch today if you’ve experienced water damage.