Structural Drying

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a company that specializes in cleaning and restoration services for both residential and commercial properties. One of their specialties is structural drying, which is the process of removing moisture from a building's structure, such as walls, floors, and ceilings, after water damage.

The process of structural drying typically involves the use of specialized equipment, such as high-powered air movers and dehumidifiers, to create a controlled environment that promotes rapid evaporation of moisture from the affected areas. In addition to drying the structure, SERVPRO technicians will also monitor the progress of the drying process and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the area is fully dried.

SERVPRO's structural drying services can help prevent further damage to the property and mitigate the risk of mold growth, which can occur if moisture is not properly removed. They also have the expertise and equipment to handle water damage caused by a variety of sources, including floods, plumbing leaks, and storm damage.

Factors to consider when hiring a professional mold remediation company.

4/24/2023 (Permalink)

Mold grows in humid, dark spaces.

When hiring a mold remediation service, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose a reputable and reliable company. Here are some key considerations:

1. Experience and Expertise: Choose a company with years of experience and knowledge of mold remediation techniques. Ask for references and check online reviews to see what previous customers have to say about their work.

2. Certifications and Licenses: Verify that the company holds relevant certifications and licenses from reputable organizations. Look for certifications such as the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) or NORMI (National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors).

3. Insurance: Make sure the company has liability insurance to protect you in case of any accidents or damages that may occur during the remediation process.

4. Process and Equipment: Inquire about the mold remediation process the company follows and the equipment they use. Ensure that the company uses appropriate protective gear, ventilation, and proper containment techniques to avoid the spread of mold spores.

5. Cost: Get quotes from multiple companies and compare their prices. Be wary of companies that offer significantly lower prices than others, as they may be cutting corners or using inferior equipment.

6. Communication: Choose a company that communicates well and is responsive to your needs. The company should provide you with a detailed plan of action, including an estimated timeline and cost breakdown.

7. Guarantee: Ask if the company offers a guarantee or warranty on their work. A reputable company should stand behind their work and be willing to address any issues that may arise after the remediation process is complete.

Fire Restoration Methodolgy

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

Destruction left behind.

SERVPRO uses a thorough methodology for fire restoration to ensure that the affected property is restored to its pre-fire condition. Here is a general outline of their fire restoration process:

1. Emergency Contact: The restoration process starts with a call to SERVPRO's 24/7 emergency hotline. A representative will ask questions to determine the type of fire damage and the equipment and resources needed for the restoration process.

2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment: Their technicians will assess the extent of the fire damage, including the damage to the structure and contents of the property.

3. Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Services: If necessary, they will board up or tarp the property to protect it from further damage.

4. Water Removal and Drying: If there is water damage resulting from firefighting efforts, SERVPRO will remove the water and dry the property using dehumidifiers and air movers.

5. Smoke and Soot Removal: They will use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from all surfaces, including walls, ceilings, and floors.

6. Cleaning and Sanitizing: They will clean and sanitize all restorable items affected by the fire, using specialized cleaning products and techniques.

7. Restoration: Depending on the extent of the damage, they may repair or replace damaged structural materials or contents, such as flooring, walls, or furniture.

Throughout the process, SERVPRO will communicate with the property owner and insurance adjuster to keep them informed of the progress and any necessary changes to the restoration plan. The goal is to restore the property as quickly and efficiently as possible, while minimizing disruption to the property owner's life.

Water Damage in Ceilings near Salem, MA

3/29/2023 (Permalink)

Water Damage can escalate quickly!

Ceiling water damage is a common problem faced by many homeowners in Salem. It can be caused by various factors such as leaking roofs, burst pipes, or plumbing issues. The damage caused by water can be extensive and can lead to mold growth, which can be hazardous to health.

When faced with ceiling water damage, it is important to take immediate action to prevent further damage. The first step is to identify the source of the water and fix the problem. This may require the services of a professional plumber or roofing contractor.

Once the source of the water has been fixed, it is important to remove any standing water and dry out the affected area. This can be done by using fans, dehumidifiers, and other drying equipment. It is important to ensure that the area is completely dry to prevent mold growth.

In some cases, the damage may be extensive and require the services of a professional restoration company, like SERVPRO. They have the expertise and equipment to handle the situation and restore your ceiling to its original condition.

Prevention is always the best course of action when it comes to ceiling water damage. Regular inspection of your roof and plumbing system can help identify any potential problems before they become major issues. It is also important to address any problems immediately to prevent them from becoming worse.

In conclusion, ceiling water damage can be a serious problem for homeowners in Salem. Taking immediate action to identify the source of the water and fix the problem is crucial. It is also important to ensure that the affected area is thoroughly dried to prevent mold growth. Regular maintenance and inspection of your roof and plumbing system can help prevent water damage in the first place.

Floods in the Medford/Everett area.

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

Flooded basement

Water damage can be a devastating experience for any homeowner, and it's important to have a reliable and experienced company to turn to in case of an emergency. One such company is SERVPRO of Medford/Everett, a locally owned and operated franchise that specializes in water damage restoration.

SERVPRO of Medford/Everett is a full-service restoration company that can handle everything from small leaks to large-scale floods. They use the latest technology and techniques to quickly and efficiently remove water and dry out the affected area. They also use specialized equipment to detect hidden moisture and remove mold and mildew, ensuring that your home is completely restored to its preloss condition.

The team at SERVPRO of Medford/Everett is highly trained and certified, and they take pride in providing excellent customer service. They are available 24/7, so you can count on them to be there when you need them most. They also work closely with your insurance company to make the claims process as smooth as possible.

One of the things that sets SERVPRO of Medford/Everett apart is their commitment to using eco-friendly and sustainable practices. They use non-toxic cleaning products and equipment that is designed to minimize waste and reduce the impact on the environment.

If you're dealing with water damage in Medford, MA, SERVPRO of Medford/Everett is the company to call. Their experienced team will work quickly and efficiently to restore your home and give you peace of mind.

Removing Fire Damage from Surfaces in Salem

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Call the FRST fire and smoke damage restoration technicians from SERVPRO for Salem house fire cleaning and restoration.

SERVPRO Provides an Expert Fire Damage Restoration Service

When properties catch fire, one of the leading causes of damage is smoke-related. Combusting materials release toxins into the environment in the form of smoke. Hot smoke travels quickly from the source through the home, leaving behind thick, odorous residues on surfaces. Using a professional restoration service can help make these damages "Like it never even happened."

Homeowners with fire damage in Salem can reach out to SERVPRO to help rescue their structure and contents. You can carry out several tasks to reduce the impact of smoke on your home and belongings. Light vacuuming is a simple but effective way to remove light and dry soot from surfaces. The goal of eliminating these dry, unattached particles with a vacuum cleaner is to prevent them from gradually dropping onto floors and surfaces below. In areas with high foot traffic, loose soot can be driven into carpet fibers or floors, making restoration much more challenging and work-intensive. 

Another simple mitigative procedure is to open windows which helps to disperse unpleasant odors naturally. Tackling smoke residues with household cleaning products is not recommended as there may be an adverse reaction that ultimately causes more harm than good.

Meeting the Cleanup Challenge

Our technicians are adept at dealing with the challenges of cleaning complex soot and smoke residues. Cleaning porous surfaces with smoke damage are perhaps the most challenging aspect of restoration. Material porosity absorbs smoke particles and cleaning agents. Unfinished woods, common in cabinet interiors, plasterboard, carpets, and acoustical tiles or masonry are all porous materials in the home. Generally, these materials require a dry-cleaning solution as the absorption of cleaning agents can lead to discoloration or, in some cases, deterioration of the material. One dry cleaning solvent we use is denatured alcohol which can be applied directly to unfinished wood surfaces and allows us to clean with a dry sponge without causing damage. Other materials such as plasterboard can be salvaged if the soot is not embedded into the gypsum.

Fire Damaged Porous Materials and How to Clean Them 

• Acoustical tiles that can soundproof walls are best cleaned using light peroxide to remove smoke residues. If embedded with soot, disposal is the required method of remediation.
• Carpeted walls can absorb large amounts of moisture, especially if treated with a fire retardant. We identify the types of fiber and adhesive to determine the best cleaning action. 
• Concrete and masonry have a sliding scale of cleaning actions that increase aggressive and agitative methods. 

If the ignition source is furnace-related (puff-back), it is common to find that the masonry surrounding the surface is damaged. Mortar, bricks, marble, and cinder block are common types of masonry found in the home. If dry cleaning with sponges is not possible, we may resort to an alkaline cleaning agent alongside water to remove soot, then rinse the surface with pressure washers or hoses. Since water and alkaline cleaners can discolor masonry, it is vital to pre-test these methods on an inconspicuous part of the material before applying them to the entire surface. Using solvents on surfaces also requires dwell time and correct mixing of solvents to ensure the best results.

Aggressive Cleaning Methods for Masonry

• For stone and brickwork, high acidic solvents can help remove smoke damage. 
• Avoid using acids on polished marble or porcelain as they may corrode finishes. 
• Abrasion blasting is the most aggressive action that changes the material's surface. Dry ice pellets offer the most practical non-moisture abrasion method. This can be damaging in itself if the material has historical value.

Property fire damages can become permanent without professional intervention. Contact SERVPRO of Salem / Peabody / Marblehead for fire damage restoration at (978) 744-4545.

Repairing Residential Water Damage in Salem

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

What is the best way to deal with water damage cleanup and restoration? Call SERVPRO to protect your Salem home, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Has a Salem-Based Water Restoration Team

Unwanted moisture can have a detrimental effect on your home. Water impact is typically caused by insufficient insulation, leaking or broken pipes, and malfunctioning drainage equipment. It can be a sudden event that catches a homeowner by surprise and requires immediate mitigation to reduce potential water damage.

SERVPRO offers water damage restoratioan services to Salem residents. Our technicians, having extensive experience, are trained to deliver expert assessment, emergency mitigation, and restoration services in this local area, which helps to ensure that our methods are proven in practice. The first action is to contact us on our twenty-four-hour emergency line. We can then process your claim- referred to as FNOL first notification of loss, and organize a call-out from a qualified restoration technician. Emergency mitigation immediately occurs when we arrive on site. It can include tasks such as draining the property of standing water or using truck-mounted water extractors to get rid of excess moisture soaking into carpets, pooling on floors, or flooding washrooms. Mitigation helps to reduce the number of losses to the structure of your home and helps to save your belongings.

Part of the Mitigation Procedure is Preventative

Liquid can raise the temperate climate inside your home, leading to stagnation, mold, and other microbial infestations. It is common for restoration technicians to bring in climate control monitoring and maintenance equipment. Thermal hygrometers measure the relative humidity of an environment, which should be maintained below 60% to reduce the risk of microbial growth. The humidity levels themselves are often controlled with the use of refrigerant dehumidification equipment which is deployed in the affected area. A wet property can need anywhere from five to thirty dehumidifiers to provide adequate climate control during the restoration period. We can run these from mainline electrics or portable generators. At the same time, each unit is connected using ground fault circuit interrupters to reduce the risk of an electrical spike and maintain electrical safety in wet parts of the property.

Dehumidification Equipment in Wet Properties

• Low grain refrigerant (LRG) dehumidifiers are the industry standard for overall climate control during restoration.
• Alternative equipment such as desiccant dehumidifiers can be used for specific tasks such as drying out furniture. 
• Sometimes natural ventilation- referred to as open-system drying- can be equally effective in maintaining a balanced humidity. 

Drying a water damaged property can take a few days or several weeks, depending on the severity of the water intrusion event and the size of the property. Another crucial factor is how long moisture has been residing on the property. Long-term exposure to smoke can permanently damage materials such as drywall and belongings. Equally, liquid can migrate from one area of the home to another, leading to extensive damage to wall cavities or the subfloor. These assessments are made following the initial emergency mitigation procedure. We may use borescopes to check voids and nooks for potential damage. If water has migrated into cavities, it is vital to enact applied structural drying (ASD) to avoid secondary losses from mold and bacteria damage. ASD techniques often involve removing interior layers of a building assembly like floorboards and stud walls to dry out cavities. These can be replaced like-for-like with new materials before the end of service. 

Applied Structural Drying Methods

• Use a claw hammer and razor knife to detach stud wall sections, gypsum board, or drywall to dry cavities directly. 
• Drilling small holes beneath the baseboard of walls and adapting rapid air-moving equipment with a flex hose to push warm, dry air into the cavity. 
• Removing carpets, pads, or floorboards to access the subfloor and using extraction and drying equipment.

If your home suffers water damage, contact SERVPRO of Salem / Peabody / Marblehead for water damage restoration at (978) 744-4545.

Salem Residents Use Professional Mold Damage Remediation

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO AMRT technicians contain the mold infested area of your Salem home to prevent cross-contamination. Call us to get it done right.

Mold Removal Technicians from SERVPRO Can Help

Microscopic organisms are a normal part of a home environment. However, the tiny seed-like spores can increase under the right conditions and become a problem for homeowners. Microbial infestation in the home causes unpleasant odors and damages materials and belongings. SERVPRO is a licensed remediation service that can help restore your property and mitigate an infestation.

Remediation of mold damage in Salem is best left to the professionals. There are hundreds of different strains of fungi, with each one having unique characteristics, and posing unique challenges, for restoration. Our technicians are extensively trained in identifying different types of fungi and implementing remediation practices.

At SERVPRO, we do not use laboratory testing for microbial infestations as these can often be time-consuming and expensive. A visual inspection of the property using an array of measuring equipment is more than sufficient to perform remediation. We recommend that homeowners who notice the common symptoms of microbial infestation- malodor, discoloration, and dampness- initiate a remediation team immediately. You can contact our twenty-four-emergency helpline and provide a loss notification. We can dispatch AMRT-applied microbial remediation technicians typically within four hours of the initial call.

When there is a microbial infestation in the home, it is crucial to avoid disturbing colonies as much as possible. Reduce foot traffic in the area suspected of infestation, and do not brush mold stains. This non-action prevents spores from becoming airborne and spreading to other home areas. We always establish proper containment protocols before agitating or aggressive action on infestations. Some of our methods for removing the infestation from materials are chemical agents, physical agitation, and the use of machinery. When a property shows severe infestation, our team generally resorts to mechanical equipment. These include rotational machines, sanders, and pressurized blasting equipment that rely on abrasive action to remove colonies. The last resort is a controlled demolition of the non-salvageable materials. SERVPRO techs bag and dispose of the infested materials according to local codes and EPA guidelines.

Steps to Prevent the Spread of Spores

• Trying to avoid entering rooms with clear signs of an infestation is vital to preventing the spread of a microbial infestation. 
• Physical barriers such as 6-mil polyethylene sheeting, which is entirely non-porous, can block airborne spores. 
• Careful organization and management of space, including decontamination rooms, are equally vital to cleaning microbes. 

The fungi require water to grow. It stands to reason then that most microbial infestations result from an underlying moisture issue. Moisture issues can originate from ineffective vapor barriers in the home. Crawlspaces are a specific area where microbes can proliferate rapidly. We offer additional services such as installing vapor barriers in crawlspaces to help prevent recurring microbial growth issues and correct moisture problems. Vapor damage is caused by evaporating moisture from underneath a home that can become wet due to rainwater or groundwater. We seal the interior with waterproof materials to stop evaporating moisture from condensation on organic materials such as the subfloor. Sometimes we can install or inspect sump pumps that help move standing water from underneath the home into a nearby drainage duct. We call this service encapsulation.

Preventative Measures for Infestations

• Pumping equipment to move water out of the home is essential for properties with crawlspaces in high rainfall areas. 
• Maintenance and cleaning of gutters, as well as appropriate pipe insulation, can help to stem the growth of microbes. 
• Replacing insulation inside wall cavities or adding insulation to poorly insulated spaces, such as garages, is also helpful in the fight against infestation. 

If you suspect a microbial infestation, contact SERVPRO of Salem / Peabody / Marblehead for mold remediation at (978) 744-4545.

Water Removal Must Be Fast to Save Your Salem Business

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

No matter the time SERVPRO commercial damage restoration teams are ready at a moment's notice. 24/7 365 days a year, we are here to help.

Water Extraction Makes Business Activities Possible

All living things require water, but just like fire, when we lose control over it, disasters happen. A small leak in your Salem business can suddenly break and let untold gallons into your company’s workspace overnight. SERVPRO’s water removal services help in situations like this, getting things back to normal as rapidly as possible.

Problems occur in commercial buildings daily, including those that require water removal in Salem. A slow response can increase unnecessary damage. SERVPRO wants to prevent this from happening to your business, which is why We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

We use protocols that ensure we address each aspect of your needs regarding water removal and related issues. We assure you that these methods promote and support your company’s regular operations. We carry out activities focusing on:

• Removing water to facilitate the desiccation of the interior,
• Treating carpets to prevent discoloration from furniture,
• Checking furniture for warping of frames and issues affecting upholstery, and
• Necessary plumbing repairs.

Our extraction units make stripping the water from your floors easy and the air fast. We employ controlled demolition techniques to free moisture trapped inside cavities.

Carpeting can pick up darker stains from wooden furniture legs, and rust can get set in from metal cabinets and rolling wheels. We use special cleaning agents to remove these and make your carpeting look nice again.

Interior frames can become soaked regardless of the direction of the water. As they dry, these unfinished pieces can begin to warp, pulling the exterior of the item in incorrect directions. Our technicians help get your furniture dry and correctly reframed.

With breaks in your plumbing, our certified experts get this taken care of immediately upon arrival. Stopping any additional water from soaking your business is paramount to the rest of our work.

Call SERVPRO of Salem / Peabody / Marblehead at (978) 586-2915 for the professional B2B services you need when disaster strikes to keep your business activities going.

Fire Restoration Experts Rebuild Burnt Homes in Peabody

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage remediation is no easy task. Call SERVPRO for the help you need.

Cleaned Up and Made Livable with Fire Restoration

Firefighters use water or foam to extinguish the fire when a home catches fire. Water makes it so things can no longer burn, and foam works similarly by blocking oxygen from getting near anything that can fuel the fire. Either can save your house in Peabody, but thousands of gallons of water can leave such residential properties with additional restoration needs.

The technicians at SERVPRO can handle any fire restoration work our Peabody customers might need. We want to make your damaged home a place that you feel comfortable and safe living in again.

Because fire restoration work requires more than mere cleaning away of soot and removing odors, SERVPRO specializes in rebuilding and reconstructing homes and businesses. This specialized work includes :

• Roofing repairs and reconstruction of attics, including insulation installation,
• Reconstruction of window frames, and
• Cleaning up of water or foam used by the fire department.

Firefighters often open up the roof when a house burns to gain control over the fire. Such holes allow pests like raccoons and birds, rain, and debris from overhead trees to enter your residence. We get these openings tarped immediately upon arrival and rebuild the damaged structures, including shingles and gutters. We often remove any existing insulation and install new batting or blown-in insulation.

Window frames often swell and warp during a fire. Glass can become cracked, also. These changes can make it difficult or even impossible to open and close windows. We can remove these when we perform any other needed controlled demolition work and then reinstall new windows and frames.

The fire department’s goal is to put it out as quickly as possible whenever a fire breaks out. Often using water, they create another mess while gaining control over the initial catastrophe. Restoration includes water extraction, drying the floors and walls, and the air with a combination of air scrubbers and desiccation machines.

Call SERVPRO of Salem / Peabody / Marblehead at (978) 586-2915 for professional services from trained and competent restoration experts.