What are the Stages of Water Damages, Stages 1 & 2.

8/7/2023 (Permalink)

Class 2: Fast Rate of Evaporation

Class 2 water losses affect the whole room through materials such as carpets and cushions. Class 2 is identifiable if the whole room has been affected, and the rate of water evaporation is fast. Notably, water in this classification has wicked up the walls no more than 24 inches. In class 2 water losses, the following materials may be severely wet:

• Wood grained material
• Flooring
• Carpets
• Furniture

Repairing class 2 water damage may cost more than class 1 since the affected area is larger. It may also be more difficult to clean.

Class 1: Slow Rate of Evaporation

Class 1 water losses affect only a certain portion of a room through low-permeance or low-porosity materials. This may include materials such as:

• Vinyl composition tile
• Plywood
• Structural wood
• Concrete
• Particle board

Class 1 is typically the easiest to handle because it only covers a small area. The damage created here is generally minimal, and the affected items have absorbed only a small amount of water. The cost of repairs is also inexpensive, making a class 1 water loss the best-case scenario.

Stay tune for out next Blog post where we learn about Stage 3 & 4 of water damage. SERVPRO is ready to tackle the job but also prepare you for the future. SERVPRO believes in spreading the knowledge.  

How to Clean Black Soot from Walls

8/7/2023 (Permalink)

Whether a fire causes your home or business to be covered in black soot, a cooking accident in your kitchen leaves you with severe soot damage, or a rogue candle goes haywire, your walls require upkeep and maintenance to ensure they are successfully cleaned after damage. But what are the steps for cleaning black soot from walls?

soot is defined as “a black substance formed by combustion or separated from fuel during combustion, rising in fine particles, and adhering to the sides of the chimney or pipe conveying the smoke.” In other words, soot is the product of incomplete combustion; since it’s a sticky substance, it tends to adhere to the location where this incomplete combustion occurred. There are a variety of sources that can contribute to soot appearing on your walls, including but not limited to:
Candles.
Fireplaces.
Exhaust from a car in a garage, which is adjacent to the affected wall.
Space heaters.
Dust, dirt, and cooking oils.
External factors such as smoke from a nearby factory.

Inhaling soot can cause health effects, which is why it’s important to contact a cleanup and restoration company like SERVPRO of Downtown Salt Lake City as soon as you find any in your living space or business. Not only can it disrupt your daily home or business activities, but it can prove a safety hazard as well.

Tips to Clean Your Walls

• Ventilate the area to remove excess soot and odor.
• Wear household dish gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants to avoid direct soot or ash contact with skin. If contact occurs, wash off soon as possible.
• Wear a dust mask such as an N-95.
• Use a dehumidifier to control moisture in the air.
• Use a dry chemical sponge to remove as much as soot as you can. This will help prevent soot from embedding deeper into the wall, where it can show up as a permanent stain.
• Follow with a low-alkali detergent, then rinse.

 If all fails , you know who to call . When SERVPRO of Downtown Salt Lake City  goes out rest assure that SERVPRO of Downtown Salt Lake City will get the job done. If water damage is present, SERVPRO of Downtown Salt Lake City professionals will implement a water damage restoration process, using dehumidifiers, air movers, and other equipment as needed.
 Upon arrival, SERVPRO of Downtown Salt Lake City technicians will perform a walk-through of the affected area, including inspection and testing of adjoining rooms to the damage. This is a critical step, as it will help determine the best course of action to remediate your soot and other fire damage.

How to Prevent Mold .

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

Don't let mold take over! Get your peace of mind today.

You had a house flood and thought you did a pretty good clean up job (pat yourself on the back), until one day you notice a little something over in the corner under the carpet slowly creeping up the wall.  Panic sets in and you start pacing thinking to yourself, “How did this happen. What could I have done to prevent this?”  Well we have the answers and some simple tips to help you prevent mold.

• Identify problem areas in your home and correct them. You can't mold-proof your home, but you can make it mold-resistant.  Check your house for areas of concern and face them head on.  It might cost money up front but it will save you money down the road.  Pull up that carpet and install mold proofing products, find that water leak and fix it so it doesn’t creep inside the house, or repair that broken rain gutter.
• Dry wet areas immediately. Mold can't grow without moisture, so tackle wet areas right away.  Even spills should be cleaned up ASAP.  The key is the small daily task that makes the difference. Be sure to dry the floor and walls after a shower. Don't leave wet clothes in the washing machine, where mold can spread quickly. Get them in the dryer and make sure to leave the door open and let your washer dryer out
• Prevent moisture with proper ventilation. It may be that your routine activities are encouraging the growth of mold in your home. Make sure an activity as simple as cooking dinner, taking a shower, or doing a load of laundry doesn't invite mold by providing proper ventilation in your bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, and any other high-moisture area. Your energy-efficient home may be holding moisture inside, so open a window when cooking or washing dishes or showering, or run an exhaust fan.
• Equip your home with mold-resistant products. Building a new home or renovating an old one? Use mold-resistant products like mold-resistant drywall or mold-resistant Sheetrock, and mold inhibitors for paints. This is especially import in moisture prone areas like the bathroom and kitchen.
• Monitor humidity indoors. The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30 and 60 percent. You can measure humidity with a moisture meter purchased from a hardware store or online. You'll also be able to detect high humidity by simply paying attention to problem areas in your home. Signs of excessive humidity include condensation on windows, pipes, and walls. If you notice condensation, dry the surface immediately and address the source of the moisture
• Direct water away from your home. If the ground around your home isn't sufficiently sloped away from the foundation, water may collect there and seep into your crawlspace or basement.
• Clean or repair roof gutters. A mold problem might be a simple matter of a roof that is leaking because of full or damaged gutters. Have your roof gutters cleaned regularly and inspected for damage. Repair them as necessary, and keep an eye out for water stains after storms that may indicate a leak.
• Improve air flow in your home. According to the EPA, as temperatures drop, the air is able to hold less moisture. Without good air flow in your home, that extra moisture may appear on your walls, windows and floors. To increase circulation, open doors between rooms, move furniture away from walls, and open doors to closets that may be colder than the rooms they’re in. Let fresh air in to reduce moisture and keep mold at bay.

Safeguarding Your Home: Why SERVPRO Urges You to Review Your Insurance Plan

7/28/2023 (Permalink)

Knowledge is power! Check your policy and make sure it covers the unexpected. Don't let a mishap catch you off guard!

As a homeowner, ensuring the safety and protection of your property is of utmost importance. Accidents and disasters can strike unexpectedly, leaving you and your home vulnerable. This is why SERVPRO, a trusted name in home restoration and recovery, encourages you to take the time to review your insurance plan comprehensively.

1. Knowledge is Power: Understanding the intricacies of your insurance policy empowers you to make informed decisions. By reviewing your plan, you can identify any gaps in coverage and ensure you are adequately protected against potential risks, such as fire, mold, and water damage.

2. Preparedness is Key: Being proactive in reviewing your insurance policy equips you to face unforeseen circumstances with confidence. Don't wait for disaster to strike before realizing you are underinsured; take action now and secure the coverage your home truly needs.

3. Customized Coverage: Every home is unique, and so are its insurance needs. SERVPRO's experts can help tailor your insurance plan to suit your specific requirements, ensuring that you're not paying for unnecessary coverage while still being protected against potential hazards.

4. Financial Security: Adequate insurance coverage provides financial security and a safety net during challenging times. It can help you recover and rebuild in the aftermath of a disaster, alleviating the burden of unexpected costs.

5. Expert Guidance: SERVPRO's experienced team is ready to assist you in navigating the complexities of insurance policies. They can provide valuable insights and guidance, ensuring you have the right coverage for your home and personal belongings.

6. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your home is well-protected brings immense peace of mind. You can sleep better at night, knowing that you and your family are prepared for any eventuality that may come your way.

In conclusion, reviewing your insurance plan is a crucial step in safeguarding your home and assets. SERVPRO encourages you to be proactive, take charge of your insurance coverage, and ensure that your policy aligns with your needs. With their expertise and support, you can face the future with confidence, knowing that your home is protected, no matter what comes your way. Don't wait; act now and secure the peace of mind you deserve.

No Job is Too Big !

7/27/2023 (Permalink)

Call the team at SERVPRO of Utah County to help with any size of job. (801) 406-8550

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. 

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether it’s a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, we are prepared for the unpredictable.

SERVPRO was asked to go to Houston, Texas after Hurricane Harvey hit to help with the thousands of businesses and home that were affected.  As soon as we were able to assemble a team and load up the trucks with equipment we were on the road.  We did the mitigation on several of the large religious structures and prepared it for the rebuild with the help of trained technicians and all their specialized equipment.

If you and your commercial building ever find yourself in need, call SERVPRO of Downtown Salt Lake City.

Why You Should Trust SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City for Mold Remediation

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

Why You Should Trust SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City for Mold Remediation
Mold is a common problem that can develop in any property, regardless of its age or condition. It can grow in hidden and hard-to-reach areas, making it challenging to detect and remove. At SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City/Team Hamann, we specialize in mold remediation and have the expertise and equipment to identify, remove, and prevent mold growth in your property. Why should you choose us over our competitors?

Expertise and Experience

Mold remediation is a complex and technical process that requires expertise and experience. At SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City, we have a team of highly trained and certified professionals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to handle mold remediation projects of any size and complexity. Our team has years of experience in the industry, and we keep up-to-date with the latest techniques and equipment to ensure that we deliver the best possible results.

Advanced Technology and Equipment

At SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City, we use state-of-the-art technology and equipment to detect and remove mold from your property. We use advanced moisture detection tools, air filtration devices, and specialized cleaning and disinfecting agents to eliminate mold growth and prevent it from recurring. Our equipment is regularly maintained and updated to ensure that it is operating at peak performance, delivering the best possible results for our clients.

Effective and Safe Solutions

Our mold remediation process is effective and safe. We use eco-friendly and non-toxic products and methods to clean and sanitize the affected areas, ensuring that you and your family or employees are safe from harmful chemicals. We also take steps to prevent cross-contamination by containing the affected areas and using negative air pressure to prevent mold spores from spreading to other areas of your property.

Satisfaction Guarantee

At SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City, we are committed to ensuring that our clients are satisfied with our mold remediation services. We work closely with our clients to understand their needs and concerns, providing regular updates and answering any questions they may have. Our goal is to ensure that our clients are completely satisfied with our work, and we stand behind our services with a satisfaction guarantee.

From Melting Snow to Restored Property: How SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City Handles Water Damage and Flooding

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

Rapid snow melt can cause significant water damage and flooding in properties, especially those located in low-lying areas. In Salt Lake City, this is a common occurrence during the spring months, as warmer temperatures cause the snow to melt rapidly. At SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City, we specialize in water damage and flood restoration and have the expertise and equipment to handle even the most severe cases of water damage and flooding. In this blog post, we will discuss how we can help you recover from water damage and flooding due to rapid snow melt.

Assessment and Inspection

When you contact SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City for water damage and flooding restoration, our first step is to assess and inspect the affected areas. We use advanced moisture detection equipment to identify areas of water damage and flooding, including hidden areas that may not be visible to the naked eye. We also check for any signs of mold growth, as mold can begin to grow within 48 hours of water damage.

Water Extraction and Drying

Once we have identified the areas of water damage and flooding, our team will begin the process of water extraction and drying. We use specialized equipment, such as pumps and vacuums, to remove water from your property quickly. We also use advanced drying equipment, such as air movers and dehumidifiers, to dry out the affected areas and prevent further damage.

Cleanup and Restoration

After we have removed the water and dried out the affected areas, our team will begin the cleanup and restoration process. We use eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaning products to clean and sanitize your property, ensuring that you and your family or employees are safe from harmful chemicals. We also restore any damaged areas, such as drywall, flooring, and furniture, to their pre-damage condition.

Getting Your Business Back on Track: Commercial Fire Restoration Services by SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City/Team Hamann

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

A commercial fire can be a devastating event for any business. It can cause significant damage to your property and disrupt your operations, leading to lost revenue and decreased productivity. At SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City/Team Hamann, we specialize in commercial fire restoration and have the expertise and equipment to help you recover from this event. In this blog post, we will discuss our commercial fire restoration services and how we can help you get your business back on track.

Assessment and Inspection

When you contact SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City/Team Hamann for commercial fire restoration, our first step is to assess and inspect the affected areas. We use advanced equipment to determine the extent of the fire damage, including smoke and soot damage, structural damage, and damage to your property and equipment. We also check for any safety hazards, such as electrical or gas issues, to ensure that your property is safe to enter.

Cleaning and Restoration

Once we have assessed the damage, our team will begin the process of cleaning and restoring your property. We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from your property and restore any damaged areas, such as walls, ceilings, and flooring. We also clean and restore any damaged equipment, such as computers, machinery, and furniture, to ensure that your business can resume operations as quickly as possible.

Odor Removal

Smoke and soot can leave a strong, unpleasant odor in your property, even after the visible damage has been removed. At SERVPRO Downtown Salt Lake City/Team Hamann, we use advanced odor removal techniques to eliminate these odors, ensuring that your property is safe and pleasant to enter.

Reconstruction and Repairs

In some cases, the fire damage may be severe enough to require reconstruction and repairs. Our team has the experience and expertise to handle any reconstruction and repairs necessary to restore your property to its pre-damage condition. We work closely with you to ensure that the reconstruction and repairs are completed to your satisfaction, and we take steps to minimize any disruptions to your business operations.