How To Minimize the Risk of Secondary Damage

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded commercial building in Sebastian, FL after a pipe burst

A flood or burst pipe can cause significant water damage inside any Sebastian, FL, business. Excessive water exposure can be particularly problematic because moisture is an essential ingredient for black mold growth. To help prevent secondary damage and the need for mold remediation services, it’s essential that the professional restoration crew you hire performs a thorough cleanup that incorporates essential procedures. If your building features tile, you can also complete important maintenance to help reduce the risk of extensive mold contamination.

Removal of Saturated Materials

The cleanup team should promptly remove all wet items from the water-damaged area. Because mold is adept at hiding, it’s essential to discard saturated building materials, including the following items:

• Drywall and baseboards
• Insulation
• Carpets

Replacing these components helps eliminate potential undetected moisture zones behind walls and under flooring where mold can proliferate.

Drying the Affected Space

High humidity and condensation can also result in black mold growth. To help prevent this dilemma, it’s essential to maintain adequate air circulation during the cleanup process. Remediation professionals can utilize fans and dehumidifiers to help remove excessive moisture. They can also employ moisture meters to verify the site is dry before installing new insulation, drywall and carpet.

Proactive Tile Care

Tile floors and walls are also susceptible to secondary damage after flooding. Because cement-based grout is porous, it’s important to take proactive measures to help shield tile from water damage.

Unless it’s properly protected, water can penetrate through grout and flood under the tile structure. This can undermine its stability and create an ideal environment for mold proliferation. To help reduce this risk, you should routinely apply sealant to any tile work inside your building.

Effective Strategies

No business owner wants to endure mold remediation. Fortunately, there are a few strategies that both property owners and flood cleanup crews can employ to help reduce the risk of black mold growth and its subsequent damage.

Post-Fire Damage Tips and Services

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Damage from a fire involving a microwave.

As a national leader in disaster renovation, your SERVPRO of South Brevard, professionals are ready to restore and clean your property so it feels like home again. Not only are our highly trained professionals faster to any sized disaster, SERVPRO is the preferred vendor among insurance companies locally and nationwide. In the event of a fire, our specially trained fire restoration team has the experience and training to clean and restore your Melbourne or Palm Bay home to its pre-fire glory. 

A fire can be devastating to your home and once the fire trucks leave and the flames are gone, your home will most likely suffer from fire, smoke, and water damage. Following a fire, the primary focus is always safety. It’s important to ask yourself if it’s safe to go into your home. Oftentimes electrical and “slip and fall”, hazards are primary safety concerns. 

Here’s what to do after a fire:

• Limit movement in your home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep your hands clean so you don’t add more damage to upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If the electricity is off, empty your freezer and refrigerator and prop the doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

To keep you, your home, and your family safe, here’s what NOT to do following a fire:

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting your Melbourne SERVPRO Professional.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat, or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

As your source for fire damage repair and restoration, our team has the restore vs. replace mentality to save you time and money so that you can get back to normal as soon as possible. Our post-fire restoration services include: 

Structural Cleaning

Since smoke and fire can damage your ceilings, walls, carpeting, and floors, our team will have to do a thorough cleaning. Your Melbourne SERVPRO professional will assess the damages to your home to determine the extent of the damage and choose the best equipment and products for the different surfaces in your home. 

Contents Cleaning

Anything that can be restored in your home will be properly clean and deodorized to their pre fire condition. Rugs, draperies, furniture, and upholstery will be carefully inspected and tested to determine the best cleaning methods. All other restorable contents, including electronics, art, kitchen items, and more will also be assessed for cleaning. 

Deodorization

Our professionals are also trained to remove the post-fire smoke odor from your home. Our team doesn’t simply cover up smoke odors, but rather finds the source of the odor and removes it. Your Melbourne SERVPRO professional will be able to explain the different deodorization methods for your home.

Your SERVPRO of South Brevard professionals are available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week so that you’re not alone when faced with a tragedy to your home. Our team understands how devastating a fire can be to you and your family, which is why our emergency restoration process begins just one hour following the notification of loss. Here’s how it works: 

Hour One: Within one hour of notice, your SERVPRO professional will contact you to arrange for service.

Hour Four: Within four hours, your SERVPRO team will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to restoration is responding quickly to reduce damages and save you money.

Explanation: Your extensively trained SERVPRO professional will walk your through the job process step-by-step so that you know what to expect throughout your restoration.

Pretesting: Your team will begin pretesting for restoration, working from the source of the damage outward.

Hour Eight: A verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to you, your adjustor, or property manager.

Cleaning, Restoration, and Deodorization: Your SERVPRO team will work quickly and delicately to help you regain control of your home. With our state-of-the-art restoration techniques, we’ll make sure your property is properly cared for from the start.

Final Walk-Through: After all the work is completed, your SERVPRO professionals will walk you through your home to ensure your complete satisfaction. 

In the event of a fire emergency to your home, our team is equipped to help restore your home as soon as possible. As your Melbourne disaster restoration professionals, we have the training and experience to help you through every step of your fire damage repair process. If you’ve experienced fire damage to your home or would like to learn more about our services, contact us today!

Insuring Your Home Against Fire Damage

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

A fire is probably the most devastating event that can occur in your home. A small fire can quickly become an inferno and spread until all of your belongings are destroyed.

The NFPA says that there are numerous causes of fires in the home ranging from kitchen appliances being left onto lightning strikes. Even if you do all you can to prevent a fire from occurring in your home, sometimes they are unpreventable. So it’s important that homeowners protect their property investments with the proper insurance.

Fire Insurance Coverage

Depending on what type of property insurance you have, you may already be covered for a fire. Providers offer different coverage options so it’s important that you review your details carefully and understand exactly what kind of protection you have.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average fire claim is in excess of $37,150. The two most common ways to insure your home against fires are standard home insurance and dwelling fire coverage.

Standard Home Insurance

If you are a homeowner, your mortgage likely required you to purchase a homeowners insurance policy. These standard home insurance policies typically cover fire damage. They might also protect your personal contents such as furniture, electronics, or other personal possessions.

Many policies will also include loss of use coverage. If your home becomes uninhabitable due to a claim that is covered by your policy, your loss of use coverage will kick in. Under this type of coverage, the insurance company may reimburse you for your extra living expenses while your home is in the process of being either repaired or rebuilt.

If you live in an apartment or if you rent your home, the landlord likely will have purchased coverage for the building. However, you’ll be responsible for protecting your own belongings. Standard renters policies are relatively cheap and can provide coverage for your personal property in the event of a fire.

Dwelling Fire Coverage

Dwelling fire coverage is generally less comprehensive than standard home insurance. Similar to standard home insurance it protects the building itself and other structures on the property. It also generally offers loss of use coverage if you have to relocate for a period of time. However, this type of insurance doesn’t cover your personal belongings or personal liability protection. Dwelling fire coverage is generally best used to protect a vacation home or a vacant home where you’ll have less of your personal belongings around.

How to File a Claim

Before filing your claim on a fire, you should take photos of the damage. Having the proper documentation available can make the process of filing the claim go much smoother.

After you have all the damage surveyed and documented, it’s time to contact the insurer and file the claim. The insurer will send a claims adjuster to your property to assess the damage and put together a cost estimate.

Once the claims adjuster has finished assessing the damage the repairs can begin on the property. Depending on the damage, repairs to your property could take anywhere from weeks to months to complete. Throughout the ordeal, it’s important to stay organized. Keep all emails, invoices, estimates, and any other documentation you may have received that relates to the damage.

Another way to make the process smoother is to have a full, up-to-date inventory detailing all of the items in your home. If you happen to lose everything in the fire, this inventory can help you to remember all of the items that you need replaced. In case your list happens to be destroyed in the fire as well, you should keep an electronic copy of the inventory that you can pull up if needed. If you prefer, there are some home inventory apps that you can download on your smartphone.

Prevent Fires Before They Start

No matter how prepared you are, a fire always has the potential to occur. But basic knowledge of fire safety can significantly reduce the chances that one will destroy your home. It’s important that you have basic fire safety knowledge and outfit your home with fire safety equipment.

Smoke alarms, sprinkler systems, and fire extinguishers can prevent a small fire from turning into flames that engulf your home. Having fire safety equipment can also help you to save money on your home insurance premium. Many home insurance providers will offer discounts if you have smoke alarms and sprinkler systems installed in your home.

It’s also important to make sure your entire family understand the basics of fire safety. Some basics to include are an evacuation plan, knowledge of potential fire causes, and a copy of the NFPA’s tips from the fire safety information section of their website.

Regardless of how prepared you are, a fire is always a possibility in your home. So it’s important to have insurance that will cover you should something happen. If you do suffer a fire, have the professionals at SERVPRO come and restore your home and possessions.

Commercial Water Damage Problems To Expect and How To Deal With Them

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in Palm Bay, FL.

As a business owner, there may come a time or two when you are forced to contend with common water issues such as a broken pipe or flooding. For this reason, it is important that you understand what to expect and, more importantly, how to deal with water-related headaches. Below are just four of the most common causes of water troubles that building owners have to deal with:

• Broken pipes
• Fire sprinklers
• Toilet overflow
• Supply line breaks

If you are faced with any of the above issues, there are steps you should take to minimize damage and repair costs.

Broken Pipes

Broken pipes are par for the course of property ownership and usually stem from old age or freezing temperatures. When faced with a broken pipe, you should shut off the water supply, locate the source of damage and make the necessary repair. If the damage is too great, you may have to contact your local plumber.

Fire Sprinklers

If your building catches fire, the fire sprinkler system should activate. When this occurs, you should call in your Palm Bay, FL, fire and water remediation team to help clean up the damage and restore your building.

Toilet Overflow

Toilet overflow is another peril with which many business owners are forced to deal. Because you never know what toilet water contains or what causes an overflow, you should not attempt to deal with the mess yourself. Block off the area and contact a plumber and water repair company right away.

Supply Line Breaks

Like broken pipes, supply line breaks can happen because of old age or because of adverse weather conditions. When a supply line bursts, shut off the main water valve right away to prevent further damage and contact both a plumber and a local water remediation team as soon as possible.

As a building owner, you are bound to run into water-related issues. Whether the issue stems from a broken pipe or a sewage backup, the best thing you can do to minimize damage and keep costs low is contact a Palm Bay, FL, water repair company as soon as you discover the issue.

6 Common Roof Leaks

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to roof leaks, even the smallest of consistent drips can cause major water damage. This makes stopping any of these potential leaks of paramount importance. But in order to stop these leaks, you need to know where to look and what to look for. Here are the six most common spots where you may find leaks in your home.

Around the Chimney

While it may seem like your roof and chimney are one single entity, they’re actually not. They are connected using strips of flashing which covers the large gaps between the roof and chimney. This flashing often is a primary source of leaks in the home. Over time, this flashing might pull away from the brick or rust. It’s generally easy to spot this when it happens so if you have a leak and the flashing is pulled away from the brick, you’ll know where the leak is originating.

Shingles

The shingles on your roof serve many functions for your home. One way they protect your home is by ensuring the heat or cold doesn’t get into your home. Another way it protects your roof is by keeping water out which helps you avoid potentially dangerous water damage. However, as much as these shingles protect you, they can be damaged by old age or a big storm. If the shingles are damaged or missing, water may be able to seep into the underlayment and sheathing which can then cause leaks inside the home. To make sure you’re not in danger of these leaks and subsequent water damage, look for the signs of damaged shingles which include lost granules, curling or buckling shingles, or obvious missing spots.

Gutters

The gutters that stretch around your roof likely collect leaves, pine needles, and other debris as it falls from overhanging trees. This debris can clog or damage the gutters causing water to collect when it rains. The standing water can then back up in the gutters and cause leaks to occur. People failing to clean their gutters is one of the most common causes of water leaks. But there are other potential dangers. The water can freeze and that has the potential to cause many other problems. Even if you don’t expect that there are leaks, you should clean out your gutters regularly to ensure they don’t clog or become damaged.

Valleys

Unless you have a flat roof, there will probably be spots on your roof where two different planes will intersect. The line where these planes meet is commonly referred to as a valley. These valleys may be covered with flashing, rolled roofing, or some other material depending on where you live. These valleys can be potential dangers because water tends to collect in these low areas and any potential problems with its covering can allow water to seep into the house causing significant water damage.

Ice Dams

Ice dams are potential problems in cold climates in which snow that accumulates on a sloping roof melts and flows down the roof underneath the blanket of snow that insulates the roof. This causes a dam of ice to build up on the edge of the roof and catch melted snow rather than allowing it to run off as it should. This backup of water has the potential to cause major leaks in your roof and cause significant water damage in your home.

Roof Penetrations

Any objects that extend above the roof such as vents, pipes, or other penetrations have the potential to cause leaks in the roof. Most of these objects will have flashing around them to connect them to the roof so it’s important to check the flashing to ensure that there’s no rust or loose spots on or around it. As flashing is a primary source of leaks in homes, this has the potential to cause serious water damage to your home.

Leaks, even minuscule ones, have the ability to cause major water damage to your home. Most of these leaks originate from the roof and allows water to drip down into the attic or walls which can be difficult to see until it’s too late. That’s why it’s important for homeowners to be vigilant of any potential problems. If you suffer water damage in your home, call on the professionals at SERVPRO to remediate the problem.

Summer Safety Tips

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

Summer is a time to enjoy Brevard’s beautiful beaches and the great outdoors, but it is important to stay safe.

While these summer months are full of barbecues, beach days, boating and fishing, keeping safety in mind isn’t always at the top of your to-do list. These summer safety tips should be applied to ensure you and your family is safe all summer long.

Barbecues

• When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluid 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 hose for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.

Beach Days

• It only takes 10 minutes for a baby’s skin to burn, but sunscreen isn’t safe for infants under 6 months. Keep babies out of the sun!
• Only broad-spectrum sunscreens of SPF 15+ can protect skin from UVA &UVB rays. Don’t use any sunscreen less than SPF 15+.
• The sun’s rays are their strongest from 10AM-4PM. Be sure to limit your time in the sun during this time and wear sunscreen.
• Sunscreen is only 1 level of defense against the sun. Protect yourself by adding wide-brimmed hats, protective clothing and sunglasses for more coverage.

Boating

• Wear a life vest (PFD). Even if you’re a strong swimmer, at least bring one on the boat with you. Children, ages of 12 and under, must be wearing a life vest at all times. NOTE: 90% of drowning victims were not wearing a life vest.
• Never drink alcohol and pilot a boat; it is illegal and is the leading cause in deadly boating accidents.
• Maintain a safe speed; be aware of other boaters and swimmers. Know the right of way while on the water. Also be familiar with the waters you are navigating.

Fishing

• Fishing hooks are very sharp and need to be handled with care to avoid injury. Before casting, it is important that you should look around you and stay unobstructed to avoid hurting other people with your hook.
• It is always advised that you avoid fishing alone. Always be with a friend, as when emergency strikes, there can be someone who can call for help.

Ways to Reduce Risk of Water Damage

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

Experiencing water damage can be a traumatic event for a homeowner and it could possibly destroy your possessions. Most water damage comes from problems with the house’s interior plumbing. But there are ways that you can help prevent these situations from occurring with just a little routine maintenance. These tasks will help to reduce the chances of suffering interior water damage.

Plumbing Supply System

The are several events that may happen that could indicate that your plumbing supply system may be failing. These include an increased monthly water bill, banging pipes, rust stains, moisture in the walls or floors, and signs that there’s wet soil erosion near the foundation. You can help to prevent a plumbing supply system failure by setting your thermostat to 60 degrees or higher during the cold winter months, let your faucets drip, or insulate your pipes which will help to reduce the possibility of your pipes freezing. Another way to help is to install a leak detection system.

Toilet

A toilet backing up and overflowing is a fear of every resident of a home. To make matters worse, the toilet overflowing can cause serious water damage to your home. However, there are ways that you can prevent a toilet from overflowing and damage from occurring. The easiest and most efficient way you can ensure an overflowing toilet doesn’t cause water damage is by waiting for the flushing valve to completely finish refilling the tank and the bowl after flushing the toilet. If it looks as though the toilet may overflow, you can turn off the supply valve before any overflowing occurs. You should also inspect the toilet’s components at least twice a year. This includes the fill valve, the supply valve, the flush valve, and the supply line. If all else fails, you may want to upgrade the supply line to a braided steel hose, a sturdier choice.

Water Heater

A slow leak, a sudden burst in the tank, and supply line failures are the most common problems for water heaters. To reduce the chances of water damage due to a water heater problem, you should replace your water heater after 10 years. You can find the manufacture date on the upper portion of the tank. Conducting maintenance on the water heater such as flushing sediments and inspecting the water heater’s anode rod are ways that you can increase the life expectancy of the heater. Make sure you also inspect the valves which will ensure that the tank is operating properly. If you’re able to, use ball valves rather than grate valves.

Plumbing Drain System

A study by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) found that more than half of all plumbing system failures come about as a result of sewer backups. To prevent a sewer backup in your home and to reduce the chances of suffering water damage due to it, have a plumbing professional install a backflow prevention assembly into the home’s sewer system if it’s connected to the city’s sewer system. This is especially a problem for older homes and those located downhill or below street level. If you’re planning on planting trees, do so away from lateral drain lines to prevent the possibility of the roots from damaging the piping. And as always, never pour grease down the drain as this can cause a backup in the pipes.

Washing Machine

Washing machines use a lot of water. Older machines can use up to 40 gallons of water while newer machines use 27 gallons and energy efficient machines use 14 gallons. That’s a lot of water that can cause a great deal of damage if there’s a problem with your washing machine. Just one burst inlet hose has the ability to flood a laundry room in a matter of minutes. To make sure this doesn’t happen to your washing machine, you should replace the rubber hoses every three years. You may also want to upgrade the hoses to a sturdier braided steel. Make sure you turn off the hot and cold water supply valve when you plan on leaving the house for an extended period of time, don’t overload the machine, and only use the washing machine while someone is in the house. These will all reduce the potential risks of machine failure.

Water damage has the potential to cause tremendous havoc for a homeowner. It can put into question the structural integrity of the house and permanently damage personal possessions. These tips will help you to prevent water damage from occurring in your home. However, if you do suffer from water damage, contact SERVPRO immediately to come remediate the problem.

Restoring Your Home After a Fire

6/26/2022 (Permalink)

One of the most traumatic experiences a homeowner can face is a devastating fire. If out of control, a fire can destroy all of your possessions making it imperative to follow the proper procedure to rescue your personal belongings. 

The only way to ensure you don’t suffer permanent damage to your belongings is to start the restoration process the day of the fire. Within the first few minutes of the fire being extinguished soot residue will cause discoloration of plastics, appliances, and porous materials like alabaster and marble. Within the first few hours these discolorations can turn into deeper stains affecting bathroom grouts, counter tops, and appliance furnishings among other things. After the first few days those discolorations can become permanent.

The process of fire restoration is slightly complex and time consuming. To complete the process yourself it would take several weeks so it is highly recommended that you immediately contact the professionals at SERVPRO to do the job for you. These professionals have the specialized fire restoration training to complete the job in an efficient and timely manner. But you still might want to understand the process of fire restoration. So here are the steps that will be taken to restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

Before beginning the restoration, it’s very important to protect yourself. Wearing thick clothes and gloves will protect you from the hazardous materials in the house. Professionals will arrive wearing special clothing and equipment to protect them from harmful chemicals.

Once properly attired, a professional fire restoration company will inspect the entire home for every trace of fire damage. They will inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property, which will help to determine the extent of the damage of your home, caused by fire, smoke, and soot.

With the preparation complete, it is then time to begin the restoration process. The first step will be to ventilate the building. Opening all windows and doors will allow fresh air into the building. While a stiff wind may help the process, turning on some fans will expedite the ventilation process.

Often fires will compromise windows, walls, and roofs so it’s important to cover those areas to secure and protect them against further damage. SERVPRO professionals will board up missing windows and place tarps over missing roofs.

Occasionally there will be water damage following a fire. Like with fire restoration, water removal must begin almost immediately to minimize lasting damage. Professionals will remove the majority of the water and then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove any remaining water.

The next step will be to clean the building by using specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from the ceiling, walls, carpeting, upholstery, or any other areas that might have been affected. Professionals will treat the damaged areas with special equipment using ozone technology, powerful non-consumer technology that enables them to permanently remove odors.

The final step to completing the recovery of your home following a fire is restoration. This can include minor repairs like replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet. It can also include major repairs like reconstruction of various areas or rooms within the building. 

For homeowners, fine clothing that has been damaged by smoke will need to be dry-cleaned. Regular clothing with smoke damage can be cleaned using warm water in a washer and dryer but a mild alkaline detergent will need to be used. You also may need several launderings to rid the clothes of the smoke odor.

Sometimes there will be items that can’t be restored on site. These items will be packed up and shipped to a facility for professional deodorization and cleaning.

If immediate action is not taken to restore your home after a fire, the affects can be irreversible. Therefore it is of the utmost importance that you immediately call the folks at SERVPRO to help save your possessions and not attempt to accomplish the feat yourself. At the very least have these professional come to survey the damage and provide you with a quote.

If you come across a fire in the home, you can contact SERVPRO to serve your fire restoration needs.

How You Can Stop Water Damage from Occurring

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

The damage that water can do is sometimes worse than a fire in older buildings.

How You Can Stop Water Damage from Occurring

You want to avoid water damage in a building at all costs. The damage that water can do is sometimes worse than a fire in older buildings. You need to be vigilant about a few important areas of the building. You can take a few steps to stop water damage from ever occurring.

Watch For Problems with Flashing
The flashing on the roof of the building can rust, fall off or become dislodged at any time. You want to constantly watch for problems with the flashing especially after storms or high wind. If you notice exposed flashing, rusted pieces or gaps around corners on the roof, then you need a contractor to repair that flashing immediately since water will have an easy path into the building.

Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear and Repaired
Gutters and downspouts do the important work of preventing water from drenching exterior walls and pooling at the base of the building. You would have to constantly deal foundation damage and disintegrating walls without them. Keep the gutters and downspouts clear. Clean them out regularly to prevent debris from building up. If anything comes loose, then secure the gutter or downspout back to the building. Replace corroded or damaged sections. Consider using a gutter guard to block debris and a heating system to prevent ice dams.

Have Your Roof Inspected Regularly
Your roof could have any number of problems that you would never see without specialized training and tools. Those hidden problems could be allowing huge amounts of water to pour into the walls and rot away the framework of the building. You need to have your roof inspected regularly by knowledgeable professionals. You want to do this in the spring and the fall to check for damage between seasons.

Pay Attention to Plumbing Fixtures
Pay close attention to the plumbing fixtures. This could be any sink, drain or toilet. If they start running slow, losing pressure or backing up, then you have a potential issue that could already be causing water damage to the building. You need to be observant and call for help as soon as you notice anything unusual.

Think About Putting Drains or Pans in Key Areas
Floor drains and collection pans can stop water damage from occurring. They need to be put in key locations. Drains can go in bathrooms or basements. Collection pans can be set under hoses, appliances or even frequently used sinks.

Carefully Examine Your Plumbing Twice a Year
You want to walk through the building and examine the plumbing at least once every six months. Look for any signs that something is leaking such as mold, discolored floors or moisture on the fittings. Check the condition of the pipes. Have anything that is leaking, damaged or suspicious inspected and replaced by a plumber.

Have Your Sewer Lines Professionally Inspected
Schedule regular sewer line and backflow system inspections once every year or two. If the sewer line or backflow preventer breaks, then the building or foundation could be quickly flooded with wastewater. An inspection will ensure that everything is in good condition and working properly.

Have Primary and Backup Sump Pumps
If there is a basement, put primary and backup sump pumps in the building. The main pump will turn on once water causes a float to rise on the unit. The pump will remove water. The backup pump will activate if the first one fails or water is coming in too fast for one unit to handle.

Keep a Leak Repair or Management Kit Ready
Create a leak repair or management kit that includes things such as duct tape, a wrench, sheets of plastic and sponges. Keep mops near the kit and make sure everyone knows where it is. If someone can get to the kit quickly when a leak is detected, then it might be possible to prevent water damage until SERVPRO arrive.

Installed a Monitored Leak Detector
Put monitored leak detection systems in the building. These systems will alert you if water starts leaking or filling a room. If the system is monitored, then a live person can react to the alert by contacting you, the authorities or a service technician. Some systems will even shut off the water if a leak starts.

Our Water Damage Restoration Process

Every water damage situation is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” water damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

Hurricane Kits

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

You and your family should have a supply kit ready before hurricane season begins.

Hurricane season has begun and it is important to take steps to prepare early this year. As Floridians, we think why? Hurricane season comes every year and it is as common to us as the changing of seasons. But this year may be different. Professionals are expecting a season unlike the last 10 seasons Florida has seen. This season is projected to be above-normal, meaning warmer waters, more activity, and higher level storms. Last year, Hurricane Matthew woke some of us, Floridians up, and reminded us how strong and dangerous hurricanes can be.

Knowledge and preparation is key, especially knowing that this season may be more active than those of the past.

Start a Hurricane Kit

Prevent your family from potential stress and chaotic, and start gathering supplies that will be useful when affected by a storm or forced to evacuate. First make a list of the supplies specific to your family’s needs. For example if you have children that needs diapers and bottles or elderly relatives that live with you that may have medications they cannot go without. Be detailed when creating this list. Keep this list in your hurricane kit, and when a hurricane approaches, you can focus on gathering these items and won’t worry about forgetting anything essential.

After the specific supply list, gather supplies you and your family will need if your home loose power for a few days. Some recommended items include:

• Non-perishable food (enough to last at least 3 days)
• Water (enough to last at least 3 days)
• First-aid kit (include any prescription medication you may need)
• Personal hygiene items and sanitation items
• Flashlights (have extra batteries on hand)
• Battery operated radio (again, have extra batteries)
• Waterproof container with cash and important documents
• Manual can opener
• Lighter or matches
• Books, magazines, games for recreation
• Special needs items: pet supplies and baby supplies if applicable
• Cooler and ice packs
• A plan for evacuation and for if family members are separated

Once you collect all the supplies, put everything is a bag or box and label it your Hurricane Kit.

Certifications and Professional Teams

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

If you’re in need of disaster repair, the SERVPRO of South Brevard team, is here to help. Each and every one of our professionals are highly trained in property restoration to better serve our community. From initial and ongoing corporate training to regular e-training and continuing education classes, you can trust that your SERVPRO Professionals have the knowledge and experience to handle your disaster, no matter the size. 

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the governing body that sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. All members of the SERVPRO team study IICRC standards and best practices to know how to restore damaged properties correctly. The certifications include: 

Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT): This course covers mold and sewage remediation techniques and how to perform the proper procedures in the field to keep all workers and occupants safe.

Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD): Through this training, technicians learn how to dry water-damaged structures safely and efficiently.

Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT): This course covers pre-inspection, fabric identification, cleaning chemicals and equipment, and proper cleaning techniques.

Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT): Through this training, technicians learn about smoke and fire damage, job planning, equipment, odor concepts, and practical cleaning procedures in fire and smoke settings.

Odor Control Technician (OCT): This course covers odor control, odor causes, and deodorization techniques.

Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician (UFT): Throughout this training, technicians go over fiber identifications and upholstery cleaning methods.

Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT): During this course, trainees learn about the concepts of water damage, its effects in different settings, and procedures to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination.

At SERVPRO, we understand that having the knowledge and training to handle an array of damages and disasters is crucial to meeting and exceeding the needs of our customers when the restoration is required. Our extensive SERVPRO training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training: This voluntary, self-paced program allows our professionals to learn more about crew training, fire restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and mold mitigation.
• Initial Franchise Training: This 15-day hands-on course at our training facility allows new franchise owners to master topics such as fire restoration and mold mitigation.
• e-Learnings: Through this web-based training, team members can stay up-to-date on industry standards and professional quality.
• Continuing Education Classes: These programs are designed for insurance agents, adjusters, real estate professionals, and franchise staff to learn more about emergency mitigation.

As your Melbourne disaster repair professionals, you can trust that we have the equipment and personnel to handle your cleanup and restoration needs. Often people will try to tackle their flood, mold, or fire issues without realizing that they will most likely do more harm than good without the appropriate technology and safety procedures. When you work with SERVPRO, you can trust that our services will restore your damaged property, while also keeping you, your family, and your belongings safe. Regardless of the cause or source, our team can handle any sized disaster.

Since 1967, SERVPRO has been changing the restoration and mitigation industry. To better serve our customers, SERVPRO created the National Training Center in 1992 to teach restoration and mitigation skills to franchise owners and insurance industry employees. Through professional training, our team is uniquely positioned and qualified to help when disaster strikes. Not only is our team trained in the most extensive performance guidelines in the industry, but we're also the ones who created them.

As a homeowner, having a certified team completing your damage restoration ensures that your home is safe and sound for you and your family. From your carpet to your ceiling and everywhere in between, our team has the expertise and tools so that you don’t have to worry about safety when playing with the kids on your living room carpet or preparing dinner on your kitchen counters. Whether it’s mold or fire that affects your home, our team will restore each and every piece to its pre-damage glory.

To learn more about our services, training, certifications, or processes, contact your Melbourne disaster restoration professionals today!

#CertifiedSouthBrevardMoldRemoval #professionalrestoration #covidcleaning #certifiedinsuranceapprovedwaterremoval #SERVPROofSouthBrevard

Protecting Your Home from Flooding

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States and can cause extensive damage. In recent years, flooding caused over $3 billion worth of damage. It’s important to remember that your homeowner’s insurance policy will not cover flooding so if you want to protect yourself financially, you will need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy. The best way to avoid one of these issues is to take preventative measures so, if you do suffer from a flood, you suffer as little damage as possible.

You may think that a flood will not occur at your home but everyone is in a flood zone, no matter where you live. Flooding occurs in all 50 states of the United States. In fact, 20 percent of flood claims come from areas where the flood risk is considered low. Because of this, it is important that you are prepared should a flood occur at your home.

Tips for Protecting Yourself

No matter where you live, it is a good idea to have a bag ready to easily pack in case you are forced to evacuate due to a storm. If a major storm hits and water begins to collect around or in your home, you may need to make a quick getaway. Items that should be included in case you have to quickly evacuate include a change of clothes, your insurance policy numbers, the phone number of your insurance agent, your insurance company’s main number, essential toiletries, and cash for emergencies. If you return to find damage to your home, you should immediately contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Brevard, to come restore the house. Remember, when you are dealing with water damage, every minute counts.

Prior to your evacuation, you should have already mapped out your evacuation route and know where you are evacuating to. This is not only so you know where you are going but also because if a mass evacuation occurs such as for a hurricane, finding a hotel or other lodging could become quite difficult. Make sure you always follow any evacuation orders by emergency personnel. These decisions are made for your own safety.

If you do have to evacuate, it is a good idea to shut off the power to your home at the main electrical panel. This will ensure that you do not have any electrical situations should flooding occur in the home. When dealing with electricity, always make sure you are not standing in water as this could cause severe injury.

Tips for Protecting Your Home

There is always a chance that water damage can occur in your home. Oftentimes the situation is unavoidable. But there are certain precautions you can take to limit the risk of such an event occurring.

Fix Any Leaks

If you have any leaks in your roof or cracks in the foundation of your home, make sure to take care of those immediately. These can weaken the structure of your home. If you have leaks in your roof, water could get into your attic and walls creating damage to items.

Roof Protection

If you are replacing your roof, a good preventative step is to add protection to your roof. You can do this by having a rubber roof underlayment installed. This underlayment will act as a waterproof barrier that is placed under the shingles to protect the roof from any water that may threaten to get through.

Clean Gutters and Drains

The purpose of your gutters is to carry water away from the home and protect it from potential water damage. However, if your gutters are clogged with leaves and debris, it can block the exit for the water causing it to collect. This can cause damage to your roof and leaks into your house. Also, check any storm drains on the street for the same issue.

Battery-powered Sump Pump

The inclusion of a sump pump allows you to pump water out of your home. This can work as a great defense against flooding in your home. If a storm hits and you lose power, a sump pump run by electricity will fail to work. But if you have battery-powered sump pump, the pump will continue to run, ridding your home of excess water.

No matter where you live, flooding can occur in your home. But by taking safety precautions, you can avoid substantial damage that could cost you thousands of dollars. Taking preventative steps will ensure that you, your family, and your home are safe. If you do suffer flooding and need restoration services, call on the professionals at SERVPRO.

Disaster Remediation Requires a Quick Response

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in a commercial building in Melbourne, FL.

3 Ways a Disaster Remediation Team Can Improve the Mitigation Procedure

When your clients have a flood, fire or storm damage their commercial property in Melbourne, FL, they often turn to you as a knowledgeable source of information on a reliable restoration company. You know that the always open, 24-hour availability of a service team is important in managing the restoration process and saving many of your client’s business items. Here are three ways a disaster remediation team can improve the mitigation procedure with a quick response.

1. Timing Is Essential

When the initial call is made, the disaster team must move quickly because decisions about the scene, water removal, and area restoration often require quick and comprehensive decisions. You want the restoration service to respond to your call as soon as possible, so that your clients don’t try to handle the job on their own and make matters worse. When you call a restoration company that offers an immediate on-site response with certified technicians, you know you can receive up-to-date status reports soon after their arrival.

2. Quick Mitigation is Important

A fast response is important, but so is quickly mitigating the standing water at the disaster scene. Experienced restoration and remediation service personnel understand that there is a 24-hour window before mold and mildew often begin growing in the wet environment. Quick mitigation at the scene can help prevent the growth of mold.

3. Restoration is Vital

Once the water has been removed, restoration can begin. Repairing the area can be much less costly than removing and rebuilding, so it is vital to dry the area out quickly and begin the final site assessment to look for any further damage. You know your client depends on you, just as you depend on the quick response of the restoration team.

Employing a knowledgeable team with a 24-hour window of availability can allow you to expect a quick response to any disaster scene. Choose the team that is “Faster to any disaster.”

Bioremediation Services by SERVPRO

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can respond quickly and effectively to help minimize business interruption to your company.

We are Here to Help

Get Your Business Back to Normal

SERVPRO is being called on by numerous businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect, and sanitize their properties. All of our cleanup practices are in accordance with the guidelines provided by the CDC and local authorities. If you are interested in inquiring about the services we’re here to help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week, while life gets back to normal in the communities we all call home.

SERVPRO can respond quickly and effectively to help minimize business interruption to your company.

SERVPRO can respond quickly and effectively to help minimize business interruption to your company. SERVPRO of South Brevard professionals is uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs on a daily basis.

SERVPRO professionals are trained to perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for the cleanup process, and disposal of waste.

#covidcleaning #SERVPROofsouthbrevard #limpiezadecovid

Water Damage Restoration Equipment for Melbourne

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO Hygrometer--One of Many Tools for Water Damage Restoration.

A Melbourne Water Damaged Property is Treated By an Array of SERVPRO Equipment

The world of Melbourne water damage restoration is one of intricacy and precision. For restoration strategies to be a success, they need to be backed up by the right equipment and skills. This can mean something as sturdy as a pair of safety boots or an industry specific tool like a moisture meter.

The assortment of tools put together for every job reflects the uniqueness of water damage restoration. As every task is different, so too is the toolkit. While not all water damage requires technicians to rely on heavy duty equipment, there are some occasions when demolition tools are needed to remove compromised materials as fast and as safe as possible.

Protective Clothing
Whether the level of risk posed by contaminants is high or negligible, technicians are required to wear protective clothing. This gear includes rubber gloves, rubber boots, safety goggles, and a breathing device to filter potentially harmful gases and particulates. Hazmat suits are required under extreme clean up conditions such as crime scenes, severe sewage backups, asbestos, and lead remediations. In areas where moisture has been present, mold, mildew, and bacteria must be taken into account.

Moisture Reading Devices
The moisture meter (or moisture detector) is one of the most important tools for a water damage restoration specialist. This device is utilized to measure the moisture percentage of materials so that technicians know which areas are the most badly affected and need attention most urgently. It is not possible to make these kinds of assessments by sight alone, so a moisture reader is an essential part of the restoration toolkit. Hygrometers detect the relative humidity (RH) in an open environment to ascertain the level of humidity in the ambient air.

Clean Up Tools
If it is clear that the affected part of the property is partially or entirely lost to water damage, a range of demolition tools may be used to remove the most badly destroyed materials. A sledgehammer and an axe, though not hi-tech tools, can be useful to knock down internal components, and a pressure washer brought in to channel out the water.

Drying and Displacement Tools
Once most of the standing water has been extracted from the property employing industrial grade water pumps (truck-mounted and portable), wet vacuums and sump pumps, more precise drying techniques can begin. There are some various tools which can be used to help with this. Industrial sized high-velocity fans, air movers, dehumidifiers (refrigerant and desiccant for large jobs), and heaters are often employed after standing water has been dealt with, and only small amounts of liquids and moisture remain.

SERVPRO technicians can put the finishing touches on the water damage in a Melbourne property by using special fogging machines that disperse antifungal and antimicrobial products to sanitize and remove lingering odors. The well-equipped vehicles of SERVPRO also carry air scrubbers, ozone machines, and yes, even mops, squeegees, and buckets. Call on us to restore your property to its pre-water damaged condition "Like it never even happened."

We Use Advanced Drying Equipment and Techniques

Our advanced equipment helps to detect hidden moisture, extract the standing water quickly, and thoroughly clean and dry your home in Melbourne, Palm Bay and Sebastian. SERVPRO of South Brevard will finish the job with professional deodorization and sanitizing agents for your comfort and safety. Call us 24/7 for an immediate emergency response. (321) 777-5131

Palm Bay Storm Series: What To Do After a Flash Flood

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

Pay attention to local radio and TV for information about the weather.

Storm Series: What To Do After a Flash Flood

If a Palm Bay flash flood has hit your business or home, you are probably wondering what to do. There are a few things that you should do right after a flash flood:

• Pay attention to local radio and TV for information about the weather. Even after water has receded, there might be danger of flooding. News outlets will let you know when it is safe to go outside or return.

• Assess the utilities, and switch off the electricity if you see broken or frayed wires, see sparks, or smell any smoke or burning insulation. If you need to go through water to get to a circuit breaker or fuse box, talk to an electrician regarding what to do. If you have damaged sewage and water lines, immediately contact a licensed plumber. If you can smell propane or natural gas, leave the area right away and contact your Fire Department.

• Make sure not to drink well water or tap water until it has declared free of contamination and safe for drinking. Do not even use it to wash your hands, wash dishes, make ice, or prepare food. If you have an undamaged water heater or any melted ice cubes, you can use these instead. If you do not, and you really need water, the best solution is to boil water for a minimum of 1 minute, and then cool it down and store it in clean containers.

• Use bleach, as it will kill some bacteria. Mix eight drops of regular liquid household bleach with a gallon of water, and let it sit for half an hour before using it.

• Be protective, keeping an eye on all children and pets.

• Stay away from flood-ravaged areas.

• Pay attention to barricades that have been put up to protect you. Also, stay off of roadways, to avoid hazards and to enable emergency workers to have easier access to victims.

• Avoid moving water. Six inches of this water is enough to knock you down, and a couple of feet can actually move vehicles. This water is more dangerous than it appears.

• If you absolutely have to travel through a Palm Bay flood damaged area, be extremely careful. Wait until there is no moving water, be sure to wear sturdy shoes, and gauge firmness and depth of ground before taking every step. Watch out for contaminated water, hidden animals, electrical hazards, hazardous debris, eroded walkways and roads, and other types of danger associated with traveling. Do not enter any building that is surrounded by flood water, until it has been declared safe so that you can be sure that it will not collapse due to weakened structures.

• When you are in the process of cleaning and repairing, make sure to get the help you need. Call SERVPRO of South Brevard, if you need restoration services for items that have been damaged by water. Once the water has receded, meticulously clean and disinfect every what item, so that you can protect everyone there from potential contamination. Make sure that you wear protective clothing, such as boots and rubber gloves, while you are doing your cleaning. If you have a lot of water damage, you may need mold remediation, upholstery cleaning, and carpet cleaning to restore your home.

• Any food items that have come into contact with flood water should be disposed of, including canned goods, baby bottles, bottled water, and even plastic utensils.

• Make sure to only hire reputable and professional contractors for any repair and clean up needs. Be wary of potential scammers.

• If your basement is flooded, drain only about a third per day, as overly rapid water removal may cause structural damage or collapse.

• Talk to your insurance agent about Palm Bay flash flood recovery claims, as the typical homeowner's insurance policy will not cover this damage.

• Pay attention to your radio or TV, as you may see helpful information about assistance that is available in your region.

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

What a Disaster Recovery Team Can Do

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Storm damages building in Melbourne, FL

What a Disaster Recovery Team Can Do

When a large storm hits, your clients may be in need of a local disaster recovery team in their Melbourne, FL, property. A professional restoration service, such as SERVPRO, may be able to help. A recovery team has the ability to do a few things that may be just what your clients need. They include the ability to:

1. Respond to Larger Than Normal Damages

Sometimes storm damage may be larger than predicted. When this happens, you may want a team of restoration professionals who can respond to your client's needs quickly. Fortunately, SERVPRO is a locally owned and operated franchise capable of working together with other SERVPRO teams get the job done. However, as they are a franchise, they can call on corporate for additional resources as needed.

2. Provide a Quick Response Time

When it comes to disaster recovery, you may want to know that you can get a quick storm response team to your clients. The faster damage can be protected and then repaired, the less likely additional damage may occur. The ability to get a team to the site in a timely manner may save time and money in the long run. SERVPRO has local offices around the country allowing them have professionals available at most locations.

3. Provide the Tools Necessary for Large Repair Jobs

In the event of a large disaster it may be determined at large equipment is required to perform the job efficiently. A restoration team such as SERVPRO has access to the tools of the trade. This means that even in the case of a severe storm or major flooding, they can still begin restoration quickly.

A professional restoration service may be able to with any disaster recovery needs your clients may have. They usually have the ability to mobilize several teams for larger than normal damages. This may also include a faster response time. A professional team they also have the resources, including tools and equipment, necessary to deal with large jobs.

What to do if your House in Melbourne Beach is Damaged by Fire

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fires are a Common Source

Fire Damage in Your Melbourne Beach Home

Experiencing a fire-damaged home in Melbourne Beach can be quite traumatic. Once you come to terms with the loss of valuable possessions, you also need to think about cleaning up and restoring your house. Once you know everyone is out of harms way, and the fire has been extinguished, you can begin thinking about the steps needed to get your life and your home back to normal.

Do Not Enter a Home Damaged by Fire

Although you may be tempted to go back into the house to access the damage, you need to wait until a professional gives the ok. The structure could be damaged, and there could be dangerous chemicals in the air that can cause respiratory problems. The electrical systems in the home can also be affected and could cause electrocution. A professional needs to check out the home and make sure it is safe.

Contact an Insurance Agent

Your homeowner’s insurance agent will assess the damage and determine what type of coverage should be included in your claim. An adjuster will come out to the home and provide an estimate of the damage and can recommend a fire restoration company, such as, SERVPRO of South Brevard. Our professional technicians can come in to clean and repair damage and restore your home as quickly as possible.

Why call SERVPRO?

It makes sense that your house is cleaned, dried, and restored correctly by professionals from a fire damage restoration company. Our technicians are trained to identify problem areas and determine what can be saved, what can be cleaned, and what should be disposed.  SERVPRO, will inspect your home and determine if mold is an issue, and if so, begin working to remove it from the home as well. We use high-velocity fans to move air and dry out the necessary areas and remove the debris to prevent further damage. 

Although dealing with a fire can be emotionally draining, working with a restoration company that can make the process easier. Getting your home back to normal will allow everyone in the family to move on with their lives.

Locally Owned, with National Resources

SERVPRO of South Brevard, is locally owned and operated so we are part of the Melbourne Beach community too. When you have a fire, flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help.

As fire and water damage specialists, we have the experience, the expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property restored quickly and thoroughly. Please call (321) 777-5131

After a Flood, Don’t Forget About Your Home’s Crawl Space

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage from rain in a home.

No homeowner wants to have to deal with a messy and damaging flood. Still, high waters routinely damage or destroy Brevard homes. If your house has been through a home flood, salvaging personal keepsakes, furniture and valuables may be high on your priority list. Still, you can’t forget about the areas beneath your home.

Drain Standing Water Quickly

If your home sustains flood damage, you may find yourself feeling a bit frazzled. While stress is common in emergency situations, you should not let it distract you from draining standing water as soon as possible. Simply put, the longer water remains inside your home, the more storm damage you can expect. Here are ways to effectively remove standing water:

• Inspect the crawlspace for signs of water seepage
• Check your sump pump to ensure it is working properly
• Add additional pumps to rapidly remove water
• Employ fans and ventilation techniques
• Ask for professional assistance to seal wet areas

Apply the 48-Hour Rule

As you probably know, mold and mildew can grow quickly after a home flood. These can easily destroy the comfort, appearance and value of your residence. To mitigate mold growth, plan to remove excess moisture within 48 hours. Note, though, that moisture has a way of working its way into hidden places in your crawlspace. That is, even if the space seems dry, parts of it may remain wet. Rather than leaving the condition of your home to chance, work with a qualified restoration company. Mold removal specialists can assess your home’s risk and work to contain unwanted mold growth.

Following a home flood, your living area may be your primary concern. You cannot, however, afford to forget about the crawlspace beneath your house in Brevard County. With a bit of effort and the right restoration team, you improve your odds of returning your home to its pre-flood condition.

Palm Bay Mold Damage

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Let us use the right tools to get the job done quickly and safely.

Palm Bay Mold Damage - The 4 Benefits of Hiring a Professional Service 

Residential and commercial water damage can be one of the most costly and challenging problems faced by those who own a property. From leaky toilets to general plumbing problems, there are a number of causes for flooding that often occurs. Although it may seem easy to clean and repair yourself, there are a few benefits to hiring a professional service to handle the task.

1. Prevent Mold Spores From Spreading

A water damage professional is skilled and trained to properly clean areas where water has leaked in between walls, under floorboards, and in places that are hard to reach. This can help salvage areas that would need to be replaced if proper cleaning didn't take place immediately. In locations where mold has developed, the professional can properly clean it with the right tools and prevent the spores from spreading.

2. Avoid Further Damage

For those who are inexperienced with cleaning or restoring areas where the water damage has occurred, it can be easy to make the problem worse and allow it to escalate if it's not remedied immediately. Professionals will be able to visit the property right after the Palm Bay mold damage has occurred to prevent further problems from developing.

3. Identify Hidden Signs of Moisture

A water damage professional will be able to use sophisticated moisture tools to identify hidden signs of moisture that are often undetectable to homeowners. They can also take specific steps to prevent water damage from occurring again in the future.

4. Quality Restoration Services

Water damage professionals will be able to restore and replace insulation or flooring for a final product that looks incredible with the highest quality of materials used.

Fire Damage in Palm Bay Requires Professional Assistance

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

When a Fire Strikes Your Palm Bay Area Home, Call SERVPRO for Help

SERVPRO Restores Your Fire Damaged Home in Palm Bay

Fire damage in the Palm Bay area, is one of the worst issues a residential property owner may have to experience. In addition to destroying an individual's valuable possessions, fires can do serious damage to the structural integrity of your property. However, learning more about what steps to take following a fire can help you limit stress, save money, and restore order in your life. To accomplish these objectives, SERVPRO offers the following short outline regarding fire damage recovery steps:

Once a large fire strikes your property forcing you to vacate, you should not reenter. Unfortunately, fires can do significant damage to the foundation and structure of your property. This means that the house can harbor dangerous elements like sagging ceilings, hidden sharp objects, and electrical breakdowns. It's also important to note that your property probably has standing water following the fire due to the extinguishing activities of firefighters. These factors, a few among many, make your property a dangerous place to be. Be sure to consult with the department fire marshal or another official to learn when it is safe to reenter the home.

Contact a Fire Damage Restoration Company like SERVPRO after you call your insurance company. When your property that has been impacted by fire, these professionals possess the expertise, equipment, and training necessary to restore your fire damaged property with skill and speed. There are numerous steps that fire damage restoration experts will complete restoring your property. Some of them include:
• a thorough assessment of damages
• creation of a customized treatment plan
• cleaning, drying, and smoke and soot removal (including odors)
• elimination of damaged items like rugs, drapes, and carpets
• mold remediation, if lingering water has created this issue

DIY Cleanup and Restoration Are Difficult.

Although many homeowners are tempted to complete the fire damage remediation process for themselves, you should avoid this course of action. Homeowners do not possess the specialized equipment necessary to complete the fire remediation work quickly and correctly. Additionally, property owners are unaware of the health and safety hazards involved in the remediation process. This means that attempting to complete the restoration process on your own could make you susceptible to injury and illness.

Let the Professionals at SERVPRO Assist You.

Once you realize that you're in need of fire damage remediation services, there's only one company to call: SERVPRO. Our excellent technicians are IICRC-certified and work with skill and persistence to ensure that every corner of your Palm Bay home is restored to its former condition. Our industry experience has given us a profound awareness of how to expedite and optimize every component of the restoration process, and this is why we achieve such high levels of client satisfaction. "Like it never even happened."

Have Fire and Smoke Damage? Call Today (321) 777-5131

24-Hour Emergency Fire Restoration Service

SERVPRO of South Brevard knows that fire damage can happen any time, so we’re ready to respond 24 hours, 7 days a week—including holidays. We provide immediate emergency fire services for Palm Bay, Melbourne, and Indialantic homes or businesses, day or night. Call us for help.

3 Common Errors for Cleaning Up Mold in Your Business

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Black mold damage in a commercial space in Melbourne,FL

Finding mold at your Melbourne, FL, business is not only stressful, but can also be worrisome. Mold often takes hold in damp, humid places like basements and inside cupboards that hide plumbing, where it can grow and spread. However, before you attempt to clean up any fungus, it is important to understand which methods and actions may only remove it temporarily or encourage further growth.

1. Using Bleach

Though bleach may be associated with cleanliness, it is not effective for attempting to cleanup mold. Most products that include this element also typically contain a large amount of water. Spraying fungi patches with pure hydrogen peroxide only add moisture to them, which can encourage regrowth once you scrub away their surfaces. The roots of the growth are likely to remain, even after you complete the mold cleanup process, and then continue to spread.

2. Confusing Mold With Mildew

Telling the difference between mold and mildew can be important when it comes to fungus cleanup because of the differences between the two. While both are types of fungi, mildew does not grow roots into what it has invaded and is therefore usually simpler to clean up with a rag and a simple household cleanser. Mold is much more invasive. If you are unsure which you are facing, examine the color and texture. Mildew is grey and watery, while mold tends to be thicker with a fuzzy or furry surface.

3. Cleaning Black Mold on Your Own

If you find black mold at your business, trying to clean it up on your own can be a serious error. This type of fungus can spread quickly and hide behind walls and under carpeting, especially after a flood. Calling in a mold cleanup and restoration service that can send experienced technicians is a wise choice, especially when it comes to long-term cleanup management.

Fungus cleanup at your Melbourne, FL, business can be challenging. However, when you know which mistakes to avoid, your chances of eradicating mold completely can improve vastly.

Tips for Dealing with Flood Damage

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Flood damage doesn’t just make your home uncomfortable, it can also cause additional problems if not handled properly. If you suffer from flood damage, or any kind of water damage, it’s important that you contact the professionals at SERVPRO to clean up as more dangers can be caused if it’s not done correctly. These are some of the steps that must be taken to avoid these problems following water damage.

Only Use Emergency Generators Outside

Emergency generators release exhaust and fumes that can make the house uncomfortable. To avoid exposing yourself and your family to these gases, these generators should only be run outside and far away from the home where they won’t cause any problems for the occupants of the home. Also, keep the generator away from any openings such as windows and doors as this gives the fumes another opportunity to enter the house and cause trouble for those inside.

Remove Water Soaked Porous Materials

Any porous materials such as wallboard, insulation, carpeting, wood paneling, or wallpaper have the potential to develop mildew or mold when they get wet. Mold and mildew can be difficult to get rid of and can force the homeowner to order an expensive restoration. To avoid the potential of these issues water damaged porous materials must be removed quickly after being damaged before the mold or mildew has the ablility to develop.

Disinfect and Test Flooded Drinking Water Wells

If you have a drinking water well that has been flooded, it many have been contaminated with waterborne pathogens and should be disinfected and tested. First you should disinfect the well water with bleach. Then, several days later, test the water to ensure that it’s safe to drink. If it has been contaminated, the water shouldn’t be used for drinking or cooking. There is a four-step process that will guide you to getting your well back into service.

Refrain from Using Plumbing

After a flood occurs in a home, the septic system needs some time to properly dry out. During that time, you should refrain from using the home’s plumbing such as toilets, sinks, showers, or doing laundry. This will help to prevent any sewage backups inside or outside the home which could result in the existence of bacteria, viruses, and other germs.

Flooded Heating and Air Conditioning

Heating and air conditioning systems that have been exposed to flood water could be damaged causing either repair or replacement. Natural gas furnaces, space heaters, and boilers contain gas valves and controls that could corrode if they’re exposed to flood water. Propane systems should be dealt with the same as natural gas-fired equipment except that propane systems have a gas pressure regulator which is used to sense outside pressure. This regulator is a small vent that’s in the body of the machine and should remain unobstructed at all times. Debris from flood water could cause a dangerous malfunction or corrosion. If you’re using electric heat, it should be unplugged and allowed to dry while a heat pump should be cleaned, dried, and disinfected before being used again. If your heating system needs to be repaired or replaced following a flood, make sure to check for asbestos that may be a result of the damage. 

A home that has suffered flood damage can be very uncomfortable to live in until it has been properly restored. While property has likely been damaged and possibly ruined, there is also the possibility of bacteria and viruses that could cause serious health effects for those in the building. If you’ve suffered flood damage in your home, you should immediately call on the professionals at SERVPRO to remediate the problem.

How to Start the Water Damage Restoration Process Before Professionals Arrive

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Water can sometimes do more damage than fire in older homes/buildings.

If you have water damage in your home, it’s important that you hire professionals that are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to handle the cleanup job. These technicians have been trained to handle the cleanup and restoration process so that the damage caused is kept to a minimum. However, before the professionals arrive, there are some things that you can do to begin the process.

No matter how minimal the damage seems to your home following water damage, it’s important to bring in certified professionals to get rid of any serious health or structural threats. Storm surges and floods can bring in contaminated water that can carry pathogens and become a breeding ground for mold. If the existence of these contaminated waters or mold in the home are not quickly addressed, the mold spores can spread throughout the building and could become even more difficult to remove. If the microbial in the building is too great, governmental agencies have the option to condemn the structure.

Why Homes Are Sensitive to Water Damage

When the water that’s collected in your home recedes, the moisture from the damage is difficult to detect. This is the main reason why homes are sensitive to water damage. Microbial growth can begin within 24 hours of the damage due to standing water and can saturate different types of textiles and can seep through your drywall. The moisture has the ability to collect behind walls and create troublesome mold and bacteria out of the sight of occupants. If you react quickly, you may be able to save items such as clothes and furniture. But make sure to be very careful when entering a building that has recently been flooded. Any exposure to wildlife and contaminated water that may have accompanied the flooding could result in serious injury.

Shut Off Electrical Power

When entering your home after water damage, it’s important that all electrical power has been shut off. Any exposed wires or electrical devices that remain plugged in have the potential to electrocute people and could result in major injury or death. When re-entering the home for the first time, it’s best to do so slowly as snakes, reptiles, and rodents may be hiding under any debris and could jump out and bite an unexpecting occupant. To protect yourself against any hidden wildlife and any airborne contaminants, you should wear protective clothing from head to foot. Some of the necessary clothing when re-entering the home includes vapor respirator, rubber gloves, and eye protection. Also make sure to wear thick boots that can withstand potential puncturing and animal bites.

Identifying Which Items Are Compromised By Water Damage

Certified professionals have the training to be able to quickly identify which items have been compromised by the water damage. Typically, anything porous materials might need to be discarded if the materials have come into contact with contaminated water. Some of these items include mattresses, box springs, pillows, and particle boards. These items trap more moisture than other items and foster the growth of microbes. To get the process started before the technicians arrive, you can get rid of these items. When discarding of items, make sure to record and itemize the items for insurance purposes.

Identifying and Removing Excess Moisture

When the professionally certified technicians arrive, they’ll be able to track down and remove any excess moisture. They’ll locate the moisture pockets using equipment that measures the amount of moisture in hidden pockets as well as behind tile or any other materials that may not seem wet from the outside. Once the pockets of moisture are found, the technicians expose them to air by removing any drywall or other materials that might be in the way.

With the location of the moisture discovered, the professionals will then begin the cleanup process which could include pressure washing with powerful detergents. They also have the ability to speed up the drying process preventing any further mold growth or other harmful bacteria. If they locate mold or bacteria colonies, they have the training to be able to remove the threat using chemical or mechanical methods.

If you have water damage in your home, it’s important that you hire the IICRC certified professionals at SERVPRO to handle the cleanup and restoration. Doing so will help you avoid further damage and potential health effects.

Commercial Water Damage in Melbourne, FL

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Loss our SERVPRO Technicians responded to after hours. We responded fast & mitigated before farther damages occurred.

At SERVPRO of South Brevard, our team of highly trained technicians works proactively and accurately to restore any damages and protect families from potentially dangerous mold growth.  Using our updated methods, SERVPRO of South Brevard's technicians first identify the extent of the problem and then work with care and sensitivity to rescue and restore the area to normal conditions. Our technicians are trained and ready to mitigate loss and meet every challenge with professionalism, reliability, compassion, and respect.

Commercial Building Water Loss

Any kind of commercial damage presents unique and different challenges than residential restoration. But Brevard County residents are in luck! Your local SERVPRO of South Brevard is qualified as a Large Loss Franchise. What’s that mean?

Well, it means that there is no job too big for us! Regardless of how big the property may be or how large the scope of work is, we are the guys that can handle it properly and professionally.

Our Promise to Brevard County, FL

Our commitment to excellence includes you, which means that you can expect effective, ongoing communication and report from us.  SERVPRO of South Brevard is open 24/7 to help the residents of Melbourne, Palm Bay, and the beachside towns of Melbourne Beach, Indialantic, and Satellite Beach, Florida. Our certified technicians have handled jobs big and small, and we can handle your job no matter what.  Just give SERVPRO of South Brevard a ring at any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in Florida’s Space Coast. 321-777-5131 is HERE TO HELP!

Think You May Have Mold, But Can’t See Any

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

If there are no visible signs of mold, but think there may be somewhere behind the drywall or baseboards. Call us to help!

Do you think you have mold in your Florida home, but you cannot see any visible evidence anywhere? In this kind of situation, I would recommend hiring an Industrial Hygienist or more commonly known has mold inspectors.

How They Detect Mold

Industrial Hygienist are equipped with highly sensitive air testing equipment which will count the number of mold spores inside and outside of your house. If the mold spore count inside is higher than outside, than the air samples have confirmed your suspicion of mold inside your home. To consider your house to be a safe and normal environment, the mold counts inside your house must be lower than outside. Not only can the industrial hygienist find out if there is mold present but can also discover the area that is infected and the specific types of mold.

After the air samples are taken, they are sent off to a lab to be processed. The industrial hygienist will receive the results and provide you with a mold report and mold protocol. The mold report provides the information of the kind of mold and the affected area. The mold protocol explains the specific procedures needed, the types of protective equipment required, and tools.

Not every mold issue requires air sampling. If you can see mold, sampling is not necessary. Instead you should take the proper steps towards removing the mold including calling your homeowners insurance company and find out if you have mold coverage and start filing a claim. Once you have determined if insurance will or will not be involved in the mold remediation process, it is now time to hire a mold remediation company like SERVPRO.

When the mold removal process is complete, the industrial hygienist will return to take air sample again. This will insure that the mold issue has been eliminate from your house, and that the restoration company has returned your house to preloss condition.

Warning: Do not try to diagnose your mold problems with a home testing kit. The kits are not accurate and typically don’t work. They’ll probably reveal some mold, but only because spores are always flying in the air. (NOTE: It is impossible to eliminate ALL mold spores in the air.)

Home kits can’t:

• Guarantee a statistically significant sample of air.
• Confirm the presence of dead mold spores.
• Determine baseline levels of mold in your home to compare results with other non-mold-infected areas.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of South Brevard specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our technicians are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely. We service the Florida residents of Rockledge, Viera, Suntree and Melbourne. Don’t hesitate to contact our West Brevard, Florida office staff to start getting your home back to the way it was, and our technicians and contractor will have your home look “Like it never even happened.”

Schedule a mold assessment at 321-777-5131

Essential Steps to Take After an Office Fire

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a West Melbourne, FL business.

In the course of your day-to-day operations at work, you may not think much about what you would do in case of a fire. Of course, if this terrible ordeal were to occur, would you know what processes to follow to ensure safety and recovery? Develop a fire restoration plan today so a fire won’t derail your West Melbourne, FL, business.

Initial Considerations

Your first response to a fire should be the safety and welfare of your employees. You then need to contact the appropriate people to aid in putting out the fire and taking care of the aftermath.

• Contact 911 and report the fire.
• Implement your emergency plan and get everyone out of the building.
• Call your fire insurance company.
• Contact a professional fire restoration company to help get your building back to working condition.

Stay Away

As tempting as it may be, you should never re-enter your office building during or after a fire. Nothing inside is more important than your own life. Crews can salvage many items, and you can replace other equipment. Touching damaged materials can make things worse or cause injury or harm.

Work With Your Insurance Company

Hopefully, your organization has reliable fire insurance to cover the damages from the fire. This coverage should take care of fire damage, even if the fire started in a neighboring building. Your insurance representative will walk through the area and will make note of the extent of the damage and what losses you have incurred.

The Experts on the Scene

An experienced, skilled restoration company will come to your rescue to ensure you can safely return to work. The team will use high-powered equipment to do smoke cleaning and to sanitize all affected areas of the building. Stay in communication with the company so you know what completion timelines look like.

Fire restoration is a thorough process when you work with a reputable group of professionals. If you follow these guidelines, you can have peace of mind during an otherwise traumatic ordeal.

Have A South Brevard Professional Handle The Process Of Fire Restoration

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Professional damage restoration companies work with a wide range of different home or business issues pertaining to natural and man-made disasters.

Handling the aftermath of a fire in South Brevard can be one of the most frustrating things a homeowner or business owner will ever have to deal with on their own. Fires, even ones that are quite minimal and were put out quickly, can cause a lot of damage. Not only is black soot on walls, ceilings and furniture an issue, but the water damage that was caused to put out the flames is also an issue. For many, stagnant air and musty odors can linger for quite some time after a fire has been extinguished. Also, carbon monoxide levels might not be safe for those who are re-entering the home or building.

This is why it is important to have a professional handle the process of fire restoration. Professional damage restoration companies work with a wide range of different home or business issues pertaining to natural and man-made disasters. The reason these types of companies are so beneficial is because they have worked on thousands of homes or buildings very much like your own. They also have the skills, equipment and tools necessary to get the job done effectively and efficiently. These are things that you might not be able to do on your own.

Another reason to have a professional handle the process of fire restoration and leftover water damage from extinguishing the fire is because it can sometimes be dangerous to do the cleaning on your own. The smoke from a South Brevard fire can put carbon monoxide in the air, which is an odorless and tasteless fume that can be fatal to breathe in regularly. The expert company will check for carbon monoxide levels and take the appropriate actions if it is found to be within the home or building that has recently dealt with a fire and leftover damage from flames.

Your home or office building can easily get restored back to its former glory once a professional does the job for you. Trying to remedy fire damage on your own can be frustrating and even dangerous if you aren't checking for carbon monoxide levels and the like. Instead, think about contacting a local company to come in and do the job for you when it is convenient for you. The fire damage will be remedied and your home or place of business will be completely restored so that you can feel comfortable going back in and being there regularly.

Fire Damage Restoration

We understand that smoke and fire damage is both devastating and disruptive to your family or business. SERVPRO of South Brevard Professionals respond quickly to repair fire, smoke, and soot damage, including:

• Fire damage cleanup
• Smoke and soot damage cleaning and repair
• Cleaning your home's contents and belongings
• Eliminating fire and smoke odor and deodorization

Understanding Black Water Risks

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

Floodwater from rivers, streams and sewage are considered black water.

If you own a business that experienced flooding, you’ve probably heard of the term black water. Alongside water damage, it is one of the highest risks poses by flooding. But just what is it about this mucky water that makes it so dangerous? And how does a business owner in Malabar, FL, go about cleaning it up if it’s so unsafe? Read on to learn more about what makes the water a threat and what you can do about it.

Defined

Considered a serious health threat against humans and animals, this water refers mostly to pathogen-rich wastewater from toilets. It often contains feces, urine, water and other contaminants. Sewage also is considered black, as is flood water from rivers, streams and ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes. Risks from this water come from:

• Ingesting contaminated water
• Inhaling contaminated water droplets
• Getting contaminated water on broken skin

Dangers

Besides water damage, disease and illness are the biggest threats posed by this water. Those can include hepatitis, cryptosporidiosis, gastroenteritis and wound infections to name just a few. These largely gastrointestinal conditions can result in stomach upset, diarrhea and life-threatening bacterial infections in some instances.

Eliminating

The threats of soiled water make it too dangerous to clean up on your own, no matter how little there is. Instead, remediation must be left to the professionals. The sooner the water can be removed and the building dried, the better. A professional water remediation firm will use multiple methods to clear this dangerous substance. Those may include water extraction, antimicrobial treatments, mold remediation, carpet cleaning and more.

Black water is one of the most threatening parts of a building flood. Don’t try to take this dangerous water on by yourself. Find a specialist in professional water damage clean-up and treatment to get rid of your contaminated water problem.

Water Damage Factoids in Satellite Beach

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Be prepared on the Florida coast for water damage and call us if disaster strikes.

SERVPRO's Water Damage Restoration Service for Your Satellite Beach Property

No one wants to experience a flood or rapid amount of unwanted water cascading into their home in Satellite Beach resulting in water damage to furnishings, flooring, and building materials. Whether the water intrusion results from Mother Nature (hurricane) or a leaky faucet, the water damage can be profound and unsettling. Nevertheless, individuals who respond to the water damage immediately by calling SERVPRO of South Brevard, effectively can limit damages, reduce repair costs, and breathe a bit easier. Learn more about water damage and why it is expedient and effective to hire a restoration service by reviewing this short guide:

Water Damage

 Can arise as the result of household or construction issues with the property. Here are some examples.
• Poor ventilation: over heated attic air or poor air circulation in the attic or crawl space resulting in moisture and condensation.
• Leaking pipes: older homes have problems with copper fittings or poor installation of PVC plumbing.
• Exterior damage to siding or trim caused by improperly placed sprinkler heads.
• Slab foundations: large settlement cracks allow water wicking into carpeting, or laminated or pine flooring, baseboards and walls.
• Roof leakages: poor shingle or roof tile installation, old and time to replace.

Water Damage And Mold Growth

It's important to note that excessive water on your property in south Florida results in high levels of ambient air moisture unless corrected by mechanical means. Run A/C and small dehumidifiers to maintain an interior moisture level of about 45%.  Fungi thrive in the moist, wet environment created by standing water. The mold spores can rapidly develop into colonies of mold which may emit mycotoxins.  

How To Handle Water Damage. Very Simply?

Call SERVPRO of South Brevard, a premier water damage restoration franchise that is always close-by. In some cases, homeowners seek to clean up the water damages on their own. Mopping up some pooling water from a small leak is fine. But, if damage has ensued to furniture, flooring, or walls, it is time for corrective measures by trained professionals. The HVAC, wall voids, attics, and crawl spaces must all be inspected for hidden pockets of water and moisture. Why expose yourself to health and safety risks? OSHA approved clothing, goggles, and safety gear are standard fare for this line of remediation. There are a wide range of health and safety risks that you could expose yourself to if you seek to complete the restoration process without professional help. Our water damage experts possess the extensive training, experience, equipment and cleaning products necessary to remove the standing water quickly and correctly, along with mold and musty odors.

Call the professionals of SERVPRO South Brevard today to fix the water damage to your Satellite Beach property. Our goal is to make your home safe again from damage and possible mold infestations. With you in mind, we work politely and professionally to keep you safe while saving you money.

Locally Owned and Operated

We live and work in Satellite Beach too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of South Brevard is close by in Port Malabar and Palm Bay and ready to respond to your water or flood damage emergency. Call us 24/7 for assistance. (321) 777-5131

Commercial Water Damage Problems To Expect and How To Deal With Them

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Palm Bay, FL home.

As a business owner, there may come a time or two when you are forced to contend with common water issues such as a broken pipe or flooding. For this reason, it is important that you understand what to expect and, more importantly, how to deal with water-related headaches. Below are just four of the most common causes of water troubles that building owners have to deal with:

• Broken pipes
• Fire sprinklers
• Toilet overflow
• Supply line breaks

If you are faced with any of the above issues, there are steps you should take to minimize damage and repair costs.

Broken Pipes

Broken pipes are par for the course of property ownership and usually stem from old age or freezing temperatures. When faced with a broken pipe, you should shut off the water supply, locate the source of damage and make the necessary repair. If the damage is too great, you may have to contact your local plumber.

Fire Sprinklers

If your building catches fire, the fire sprinkler system should activate. When this occurs, you should call in your Palm Bay, FL, fire and water remediation team to help clean up the damage and restore your building.

Toilet Overflow

Toilet overflow is another peril with which many business owners are forced to deal. Because you never know what toilet water contains or what causes an overflow, you should not attempt to deal with the mess yourself. Block off the area and contact a plumber and water repair company right away.

Supply Line Breaks

Like broken pipes, supply line breaks can happen because of old age or because of adverse weather conditions. When a supply line bursts, shut off the main water valve right away to prevent further damage and contact both a plumber and a local water remediation team as soon as possible.

As a building owner, you are bound to run into water-related issues. Whether the issue stems from a broken pipe or a sewage backup, the best thing you can do to minimize damage and keep costs low is contact a Palm Bay, FL, water repair company as soon as you discover the issue.

Water damage Melbourne - flood waters penetrate a home

11/26/2021 (Permalink)

Reduce the amount of water damage that occurs after a flood.

What is Melbourne Water Damage Mitigation?

Water mitigation or Melbourne water removal generally means reducing the amount of water damage that occurs after a flood or a substantial pipe leak. Water mitigation prevents more damage by taking rapid, smart actions and is always necessary after plumbing fails or when flood waters penetrate a home or business.

Tips To Mitigate Water Damage in Melbourne Before and After a Flood

Move Valuables To Higher Locations

Place valuable (and often irreplaceable) items like family heirlooms, family photo albums, personal tapes, medical records and so forth on higher ground or even higher floors. Leaving this type of property in a basement, for example, is a disaster waiting to happen.

The same applies to hazardous materials. Always put substances such as oil, cleaning supplies, paint and other toxic materials well above ground level. 

Check Your Sump Pump
Clean out your home or business's sump pump and pit. Next, test it out by pouring water into the pit. For additional protection, it's wise to have a spare submersible sump pump.
Use Permanent Grids To Cover Basement Floor Drains

Put a partially inflated inner tube around the drain. Next, cover it with a piece of plywood that's slightly larger than the tube. Secure the plywood and ball in the drain in place. Expect some seepage. 

Prepare Appliances For Flooding
Turn off appliances at the fuse box or breaker panel and place large appliances like washer-dryers and freezers on top of cement blocks or wood planks to keep their motors above water. If high water is near and these type of appliances can't be readily moved, wrap them up in polyethylene film using cord or rope. Even if water still gets in, the silt buildup will be greatly mitigated and Melbourne water removal will be ten times easier.

Get Snow Away From Your Home's Foundation
If the ground around your home is sloped 1 inch per foot, move any snow at least three to five feet to mitigate flooding if and when the snow melts.

Keep Water Out of Window Wells
Considering that windows can't sustain much pressure, build dams around them and shape the ground so that water drains away from the house avoiding water damage restoration. 

Gather Supplies In Case of a Electricity Outage
Round up essentials like non-perishable food, bottled water, a battery-powered radio and flashlight, and batteries before a flood happens.

Protecting Wood from Water Damage

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Most houses have wood integrated into their structures in some way or another. Often these wooden parts of the house are used for decks, doors, or garage doors. The problem with wood that is open to the elements is that water damage is always a possibility. Similar to issues with the foundation, if gutters are absent from the building or are defective so that water flows straight down rather than being directed away from the building, the result could be rotting, mold growth, or other problems associated with wood being affected by water.

Keep Outside of the House Clean

When rainwater flows off the roof, it brings with it the mud, sand, and other debris that may have collected on the roof. What fell from the sky as clean water is now dirty water that can leave a trail on the house. The result of this could be the staining of doors, windows, and siding which could negatively affect the look of the house and force you to clean the house more frequently. The primary purpose of gutters is to direct water away from the house so that the water doesn’t flow straight down where it can cause trouble.

By doing this, the water that would have caused these unsightly features will now be directed well away from the house leaving the home with a cleaner outside look.

Escaping a Fire

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

Causing more than 2,500 deaths and 12,600 injuries each year in the United States, house fires are extremely dangerous for those that are unprepared for the event. But they are preventable.

To be prepared should a fire occur in your home, it’s important to know what to do:

• Before a fire
• During a fire
• After a fire

To ensure that your family remains safe throughout the ordeal.

It takes just two minutes for a fire to become life-threatening and just five minutes for a residence to become consumed by a fire. While the flames are what most people fear, that’s not what’s most dangerous as the heat and smoke do most of the damage. This is because the inhalation of extremely hot air can sear the lungs. A fire also has the ability to produce poisonous gases that can make you disoriented and drowsy making them all the more dangerous. In fact, the leading cause of fire deaths is asphyxiation which exceeds burns by a three to one ratio.

Preparing for a Fire

To make sure you’re prepared in the event of a fire, there are certain precautionary measures that must be taken to ensure your safety. The most important step is to create an evacuation plan for your family. Every second counts when a home is filling up with smoke so you need to know the fastest way out. Creating a plan and going over it with each member of your family will ensure that everyone can get out safely.

When developing your evacuation plan, make sure that you have two routes to escape each room in case one is blocked. Once your plan is formed, you should practice the plan at least twice a year. Being prepared for a potential fire means making sure that windows aren’t locked, screens can be taken out quickly, and that security bars can be opened. You should also have your family practice feeling around in the dark with their eyes closed replicating the environment they’ll be in if there’s a fire and teach the children not to hide from firefighters who are there to help.

The most important device to making sure you can safety escape a fire is a smoke alarm. Having working smoke alarms will significantly increase your chances of surviving the fire. To make sure that your smoke alarm will alert you of a fire in the home, test the batteries monthly, replace the batteries at least once a year, and replace the smoke alarm every eight to 10 years.

How to Escape a Fire

If a fire does occur in your home, you should escape the building as quickly as possible. However, there are some things you need to remember to safety evacuate. The first step is to get to the floor and crawl to the exit as heavy, toxic smoke and poisonous gases gather initially at the ceiling. When you get to a door, feel the doorknob and door before opening it. If either the doorknob or door is hot, you should leave it closed and go to your alternate way out. You should also leave the door closed if smoke is coming from around it. If you are able to open the door, do so slowly and be ready to shut it quickly should heavy smoke or fire be on the other side.

But what happens if you can’t get out? If the event occurs where you’re trapped in a room, cover the vents and cracks around any doors with cloth or tape to keep any smoke out. Then call the fire department and tell them where you are. You can use a light colored cloth or flashlight to get the attention of the firefighters. If you catch on fire yourself, simply stop, drop, and roll with your hands over your face to put yourself out.

What to Do After a Fire

If you’ve suffered a fire in your home rendering it uninhabitable and you have nowhere to go, contact your local disaster relief service like The Red Cross. If you have fire insurance, call the insurance company for details on protecting your property. You also should contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Brevard to remediate the situation as soon as possible. The sooner they begin the restoration process, the more of your home and possessions will be salvaged.

A house fire is a devastating event that can lead to serious injury or death if you’re not properly prepared. These tips will ensure that you’re prepared for a fire and that you and your family can escape safely.

Water Damages and Commercial Properties

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

Waterborne Dangers in Commercial Properties

Standing water is an ideal place for microorganisms, like bacteria, and viruses, to breed. The chances of standing water becoming a breeding ground increases when the water damage contains toxins and sewage. Even if the floodwater comes from a clean source, the microorganisms that breed.

Dampness is another risk worthy of concern. The dampness of household items, furnishings, and even the building can create an environment that encourages the growth of mold, dust mites, microorganisms, and cockroaches.

Why Cleanup After a Flood is Important

Cleaning up after a flood or water damage should be a priority. The cleanup process should also be handled with care. Any items that get cleaned must be cleaned properly. Throw away anything that cannot get cleaned or is damaged beyond repair.

Excess moisture after a flood or water damage negatively impacts indoor air quality. Because of this, flooded areas need thorough cleaning as soon as possible. Here are a few of the problems caused by moisture:

The environment becomes perfect for the reproduction and growth of microorganisms that cause health effects.
Long-term exposure to humidity is ideal for the population of dust mites.
Anyone involved with cleaning up after a flood or water damage should wear proper attire that includes masks and gloves. Coming into contact with many of these contaminants can cause illness.

The Cleanup Process

No one enjoys cleaning up after a flood or water damage, but its importance cannot be overestimated. The health of everyone who lives in the home may be affected. Depending on the severity of the water damage, the cleaning process can be an arduous task. Here are the necessary steps that need to be taken.

1. Find the source of the leak and stop it.
2. Figure out who could get affected
3. Determine the extent of the problem
4. Formulate a cleanup plan

The plan needs to involve removing water-damaged items and furniture while protecting those involved in the cleanup process. Any items that can be salvaged should be cleaned. Those that cannot be cleaned should get thrown away. Any items that sat in water for 24 to 48 hours needs to get thrown away. Once everything is clean, do a final check to assess the thoroughness of the task. Throughout the process, make sure everyone involved is wearing protective gear.

It is important to not rely solely on air purification devices to get the job done. Proper cleaning and throwing away damaged items from water damage is the only way to clean after a flood.

We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore your home or commercial structure caused by:

• Water Damage
• Fire Damage
• Disaster, storm, and flood damage
• Mold Damage

Fire Safety Equipment: Five Pieces You Need for Your Home

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

Our homes may be our sanctuaries, but they also present multiple opportunities for fire danger. An unattended stovetop can result in a kitchen fire, while electrical systems and appliances can overheat. Fireplaces, candles, flammable liquids, and outdoor grills — to name just a few — all add to the risk.

Having the correct fire safety equipment in your house is essential to keep your family safe and your home protected. This article highlights the five most important pieces of equipment needed to safeguard your home and loved ones. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re prepared is worth the time, effort, and expense involved.

Smoke Alarms

This is your first line of defense. According to the Red Cross, the National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires all new homes to have inter-connected hard-wired smoke alarms with battery backup. If you don’t have an interconnected system, battery-powered alarms are easily installed. Both types of alarms need to be located on every level of the home with one inside each bedroom.

Fire Extinguishers

Since most home fires start in the kitchen, you’ll want to put a fire extinguisher in there, at a minimum. But it’s recommended to place them in multiple locations around the house. Since extinguishers from various makers all work differently, it’s a good idea for the adults in the household to get training from the local fire department. Extinguishers should be installed near exits, away from heat sources, and up high enough that kids can’t reach them.

Sprinkler Systems

While a smoke alarm will detect smoke, an automatic sprinkler system gives you a way of dealing with flames immediately. While you’re waiting on the fire department to arrive, sprinklers can help slow a fire’s progress or can even douse it completely. Moreover, a sprinkler system can prevent deadly gases and smoke from affecting your family and could also extinguish a fire that breaks out while you’re away from home.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms

There’s a good reason carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer.” This deadly gas is invisible, odorless, and colorless and even a small amount can be fatal if inhaled for long enough. Install carbon monoxide alarms on each level of your home and outside bedrooms. If the alarm emits its high-pitched warning, get outside as quickly as possible or open windows and doors and take deep breaths of fresh air. CO poisoning can cause headaches, nausea, and tiredness and can be mistaken for flu.

Fire Escape Ladders

If your home has more than one floor, collapsible fire ladders should be a part of your fire-safety arsenal. Place a ladder where it’s easy to access in every upper-level room in case your evacuation route gets cut off by smoke or fire. Then, have the entire family rehearse the steps they would take to get the ladders out and attached to open windows.

No one wants to dwell on the possibility of their family being in danger or their home being consumed by flames, but this is one situation where being properly prepared could save lives and property. If you haven’t already done so, make an escape plan and go over it with your family. And check your homeowner’s insurance to make sure your policy is up to date with adequate coverage.

Keeping your Business Safe from Water Damage

6/12/2021 (Permalink)

As a business leader, you’ve got enough to worry about with your day-to-day operations that you don’t want to think about problems with your facility. However, it’s not uncommon for Viera, FL, companies to contend with leaking pipes or other matters that can lead to flooding and water damage. It’s important to identify the causes of these potential disasters and troubling incidents so you can prevent them and more effectively clean them up.

Potential Hazards

In some cases, something such as a toilet backup or a slow leak in a pipe will only cause minor concerns in a bathroom or break room. However, if these things go undetected, you could face significant financial consequences or even potential interruptions to your business.

Flooding could damage or ruin the carpet, drywall, ceiling tile, furniture or electronics.
Water damage could create an unsafe environment for employees.
Water damage may not be covered by your insurance.

The Gradual Issues

Leaking pipes could drip water onto floors or into the walls of your office over a long period of time without you even realizing it. Over the course of months or even years, this can rot away the drywall or subfloor. This problem could even encourage the growth of mold or other fungal development.

A Sudden Rush

If your building is aging, you may need to take a look at the plumbing system and make sure the pipes are still in good shape. A pipe break could expel large amounts of water into your facility, which could result in significant flooding. Even if you react quickly to this incident, you could still face heavy costs and loss of equipment and supplies.

Mother Nature

A weak roof or poor foundation could be vulnerable if heavy rain hit during a thunderstorm. Leaking pipes will put water on your floor slowly, but severe weather could inundate you with too much to handle.

If any of these events occur in your building, you know where to turn. Contact a commercial water damage specialist immediately.

Three Things You Should Know if Your Building is Damaged By Flood Water

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

During a storm in Indialantic, FL, it is possible that your building may be damaged by flood water if the weather becomes severe. Because this is not quite the same as other water damage, you may be unsure of how to deal with it. The following is some information about this type of water that might be helpful to you.

1. Why is a Flood Different From Other Water Damage?

The reason that flood water is different from others is largely due to how it accumulates. While most water damage, such as that from leaks or broken pipes, comes from above, the water in a flood rises from the ground. As it does, it becomes category 3 water.

2. What is Category 3 Water?

When it comes to water contamination, there are three categories. Category 3 or black water, which includes water from a flood, has the highest levels of contamination. Because this water comes up from the ground, it mixes with dirt, debris and sewage. When this happens, it begins to carry waste, bacteria and harmful chemicals that can be hazardous to your health.

3. How Should You Handle It?

Because flood water is highly contaminated, it is not a good idea to try removing it on your own. Instead, you should hire a professional to thoroughly clean and sanitize the building. Any food or beverages that have been in contact with this water should be thrown away as they are no longer safe to consume. Protective gear should be worn at all times while handling category 3 water.

If your building has been affected by water or storm damage of any kind, you should have it taken care of right away to prevent it from becoming worse. If allowed to sit, moisture can contribute to mold growth and can cause materials to weaken. A professional cleanup and restoration company can sanitize the area, perform necessary repairs and salvage many affected items.

Broken pipes in your business could permanently close your doors

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

How To Limit the Interruption To Your Business While Dealing With Water Damage

For a commercial property owner, your worst nightmare might go something like this: an event beyond your control, like flooding, forcing your building to shut down causing your business to hemorrhage money and lose out to competitors. If such a disaster were to occur in your Brevard business, would you be prepared?

Short Delay

If a scenario like a broken pipe flooding your commercial building occurs, you're going to need time to restore your property. Unfortunately, this could halt or slow down your operation for a period of time. However, there are ways you can try to expedite this process:

• Turn off your water so the damage does not spread.
• Ventilate the area - open windows or use fans if electricity is safe.
• Remove as much damaged content as possible to begin drying elsewhere.
• Find a water damage remediation company that can do everything - a one-stop-shop.

Insurance Coverage

When you are forced to close down your business because your premises are too damaged from flooding or water damage, you may lose out on income and opportunity. Despite this, you will probably continue to have expenses related to the building, such as utilities or maintenance staff. Luckily, you can add insurance coverage to your existing policy to compensate for these expenses and the value of the income you would have made if your business were still open. Be sure to clarify with your provider the amount of time you would be covered for - you probably want more than a few days.

Alternate Space

Large water damage can put you out of commission for a long time. One way around this is to find somewhere else to operate while the repairs and underway. Depending on your needs and how much of your equipment is available, you could temporarily rent a space to continue as much of your correspondence and dealings as possible.

To ensure your business is up and running as soon as possible, call SERVPRO of South Brevard immediately at (321) 777-5131!

#waterdamage #waterdamagecleanup

Home Electrical Fires

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

When a fire in a home happens we always blame it on a item we forgot to turn off. Did you know most of the time that is not the case. Here are some facts about home electrical fires.

Electrical Fire Facts

In 2014-2018, electrical distribution or lighting equipment, such as wiring, lighting, cords, and plugs, was involved in an estimated average of roughly 34,000 (10%) reported home structure fires per year. These incidents caused an average of 470 (18%) civilian deaths, 1,100 civilian injuries (10%), and $1.4 billion (19%) in direct property damage annually.
Electrical distribution or lighting equipment ranked first in direct property damage, and third among the major fire causes in the number of home fires, fourth in home fire deaths, and tied for third in home fire injuries.
Wiring and related equipment accounted for 7 percent of all home fires and nine percent of all home fire deaths.
Cords or plugs were involved in only one percent of home fires but seven percent of the deaths. Extension cords dominated the cord or plug category.

Source: NFPA's Applied Research Department
NFPA - Fire Prevention

If you had a home electrical fire call SERVPRO of South Brevard.

Our professional teams can help you feel "Like it never even happened."

#SERVPROSouthBrevard #electricalfirefacts #nfpa #firecleanupandrestoration

Does a flood mean new carpet?

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

Can my carpet be saved after water damage?

When you have a pipe break and an unexpected flood in your home, one of the biggest concerns is the damage to your floors, walls, and possessions. It behooves you to save as much as you can. It's not just economically sound, but environmentally smart, too. When your carpet gets soaked, can it be saved? The good news is that it often can be cleaned and kept. Consider the following factors:

What is the source of the flooding water?

If the water is non-contaminated or is grey water, the rug can be cleaned and used again.

Grey water includes water from washing machines, dishwashers, bathtub or shower overflow, and toilet water with urine only.

How long has the flooring been wet?

Clean water becomes grey water after 24-48 hours, and grey water becomes black water after 24-48 hours. Black water is a source of fungus, bacteria, and other pathogens. Flooring saturated with black water must be replaced.

Does the water have minimal contaminants?

Water from a pipe break, hot water heater failure, or overflow from bathroom, kitchen, and utility sinks is considered clean water. Carpets soaked with this type of water can be cleaned and dried. The pads can also undergo a full restoration.

In instances where the water is grey, approaching black, it is advisable to clean the rug but replace the pad.

Be Aware of These Contaminants

There are some contaminants that are too toxic to mess around with. If your flooring is exposed to the following, you will need a full replacement:

Water from sewage or storm drain backup
Water with fecal matter, vomit, or other biological contaminants
Water with heavy metals or chemicals

If you have a pipe break with significant flooding, let the professionals in Melbourne, FL asses your flooring damage. A restoration and cleanup crew will make your home look "Like it never even happened."

How to Prepare for Spring Storms

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

“Spring is the first kiss of summer.” -Anonymous

Spring has arrived and the excitement of summer, warm sun rays, and hot days are just around the corner. Although spring represents the end of winter and new beginnings, it also consists of spring showers, thunderstorms, and unpredictable weather, which can cause severe problems if not properly prepared. Since Florida weather already seems irregular, how do you prepare for unexpected spring storms, what do you do in the event of severe weather conditions, and what is needed to stay safe among hazardous conditions following a storm?

Preparing for the unknown can save lives, so we have provided these important preparation steps.

Organize an Emergency Plan

Putting a plan in place can potentially save you and your family’s lives. But one plan may not work for every type of severe weather condition, such as thunderstorms, floods, and tornadoes. For instance, your evacuation plan for a tornado should be different than if a flood occurred and the streets are two feet under water. Each emergency plan prepared needs to include a map of your home, routes to safety, and an emergency shelter or destination. Being prepared for each type of life-threatening weather condition is important in keeping your family safe before and after a disaster.

Go Inside When You Hear Thunder

According to the American Red Cross, lightning strikes are the leading killer. Every year lightning has killed more people than hurricanes or tornadoes. When you hear thunder, loud or soft, go inside! With lightening strikes following thunder, every lightening flash is a potential killer.

Protect Your Electronics

To avoid damaging your electronics during a storm, you should plug all electronics into surge protectors. By doing this, the surge protector protects your electronics from burning up due to voltage strikes. If any electronics are not safeguarded by surge protectors, unplug the devices before a storm.

Keep an Emergency Kit

Because severe weather can be unpredictable, you need to put together an emergency kit beforehand. When preparing an emergency kit you should include a first aid kit, a 3-5 day supply of water, nonperishable food, personal hygiene items, blankets or sleeping bags, flashlights, a battery-operated radio, and extra batteries. Make a list of important information to have on hand, like your insurance and utility company’s phone numbers. In case you get stuck in severe weather on the road, keep a second emergency kit in your car. Additional resources on an emergency kit can be found at: https://www.ready.gov/kit.

We at SERVPRO believe that by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.

Mold and Hotel Properties

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

We know how serious mold is, especially in your Brevard property

Short-term guests are the staple to many locations along the coast. While you can offer a memorable experience in this limited time frame, you also only have a brief period to make a positive impression. The proper upkeep and maintenance of your facility is vital for this effort and requires routine inspections of potentially problematic areas following all storms the hurricane season has to offer.

Roof vulnerabilities are not always as apparent as business owners might think and hidden leaks or moisture seepage into attics can lead to mold damage for structures. Caring for your bed and breakfast is often the same as the care you must put into a large family home, and the remediation and water damage recovery works similarly. We are qualified professionals capable of handling all phases of remediation and restoration, including being a licensed full-service general contractor.

Because attics do not always get the inspection and assessment that they should throughout the year, moisture and dampness often go unchecked for weeks or longer following substantial storms. When colonization has persisted for this extended period, a degree of controlled deconstruction and later reconstruction is likely necessary.

How your guests perceive this threat is vital to your reputation and continued word-of-mouth and online rating success. Choosing capable remediation professionals like our SERVPRO team ensures that appropriate containment measures get installed and work continues steadily until the threat has been removed.

Your business succeeds by making people feel at home and a situation like mold damage can significantly compromise your ability to achieve this. SERVPRO of South Brevard can help you to get things back to a pre-mold condition and protect your staff and guests from any potential hazards and health effects that could result. Give us a call today at (321) 777-5131.

#moldcleanupathotels #moldinairbnb #hotelmold #SERVPROSouthBrevard

Why SERVPRO When Disaster Happens

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

When a large storm hits, your clients may be in need of a local disaster recovery team in their Melbourne, Florida area. A professional restoration service, such as SERVPRO, may be able to help. A recovery team has the ability to do a few things that may be just what your clients need.

Respond to Larger Than Normal Damages

Sometimes storm damage may be larger than predicted. When this happens, you may want a team of restoration professionals who can respond to your client's needs quickly. Fortunately, SERVPRO is a locally owned and operated franchise capable of working together with other SERVPRO teams to get the job done. However, as they are a franchise, they can call on corporate for additional resources as needed.

Provide a Quick Response Time

When it comes to disaster recovery, you may want to know that you can get a quick storm response team to your clients. The faster damage can be protected and then repaired, the less likely additional damage may occur. The ability to get a team to the site in a timely manner may save time and money in the long run. SERVPRO has local offices around the country allowing them to have professionals available at most locations.

Provide the Tools Necessary for Large Repair Jobs

In the event of a large disaster, it may be determined at large equipment is required to perform the job efficiently. A restoration team such as SERVPRO has access to the tools of the trade. This means that even in the case of a severe storm or major flooding, they can still begin restoration quickly.

A professional restoration service may be able to with any disaster recovery needs your clients may have. They usually have the ability to mobilize several teams for larger than normal damages. This may also include a faster response time. A professional team also has the resources, including tools and equipment, necessary to deal with large jobs.

#fastresponsedisasterteam #disastercleaning #restoration #SERVPROSouthBrevard

Four Benefits of Hiring a Professional

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Residential and commercial water damage can be one of the most costly and challenging problems faced by those who own a property. From leaky toilets to general plumbing problems, there are a number of causes for flooding that often occurs. Although it may seem easy to clean and repair yourself, there are a few benefits to hiring a professional service to handle the task.

Prevent Mold Spores From Spreading

A water damage professional is skilled and trained to properly clean areas where water has leaked in between walls, under floorboards, and in places that are hard to reach. This can help salvage areas that would need to be replaced if proper cleaning didn't take place immediately. In locations where mold has developed, the professional can properly clean it with the right tools and prevent the spores from spreading.

Avoid Further Damage

For those who are inexperienced with cleaning or restoring areas where the water damage has occurred, it can be easy to make the problem worse and allow it to escalate if it's not remedied immediately. Professionals will be able to visit the property right after the Palm Bay mold damage has occurred to prevent further problems from developing.

Identify Hidden Signs of Moisture

A water damage professional will be able to use sophisticated moisture tools to identify hidden signs of moisture that are often undetectable to homeowners. They can also take specific steps to prevent water damage from occurring again in the future.

Quality Restoration Services

Water damage professionals will be able to restore and replace insulation or flooring for a final product that looks incredible with the highest quality of materials used.

Water Damage and Homeowners Insurance

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Homeowner's insurance is useful in times of an emergency. Insurance allows you to avoid having to pay out-of-pocket for expenses that are related to damage to your home. Submitting a claim after your home is damaged by water helps you recover money spent on repairs. However, it is important to know that there are positive and negative points to filing a water damage insurance claim has its good points and bad points.

Water Damage Coverage

Your insurance company covers certain types of water damage. In most instances, the insurance company will cover any damage that is the result of a sudden event. For example, if the broken dishwasher leaks water and causes any water damage, you are covered by your policy. But, any damage that results from a dishwasher that malfunctions because of inadequate maintenance or neglect will not get covered.

No Coverage

An issue that homeowners face that is not covered by a regular homeowner’s insurance policy is flood damage. If a local river overflows and floods your home, the flooding is not covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. You will need to purchase a separate insurance policy to cover flooding. This type of insurance is advised for anyone living in an area prone to flooding.

Water damage is covered through homeowner’s insurance

Unfortunately, there are some limitations to this coverage. An accident that occurs suddenly will likely get covered. However, flood damage that arises from poor maintenance may not covered by your policy. It is important to know that you may find yourself disagreeing with your insurance company about the nature of your water damage. An incident that you believe is the result of a sudden accident may not get viewed as such by your insurer. Your insurance company may argue that the damage was caused by improper maintenance of your home.

If you need help with flood damage in Melbourne Beach, FL call our teams of professionals at (321) 777-5131

#waterdamage #homeownerinsuranceandwaterdamage #Melbourne #SERVPROSouthBrevard

What should I do when my property in Melbourne is affected by water damage?

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Will Get You Back into Your Home After Water Damage

When water damage impacts your home in Melbourne, FL immediately addressing the issue is important. Once the initial damage has occurred, water can make its way into the structure of your property. If not acted upon quickly, the result can be extensive structural damage coupled with the onset of mold and mildew. However, immediately reacting to the water damage can help limit secondary water damage. This will save you not only time and money, but also precious possessions. To expedite the remediation process contact a water damage restoration company like SERVPRO. Learn more about water damage and why attaining professional assistance is important by reviewing this short outline:

Water Damage: A Brief Overview

Water damage is the result when your property is impacted by a natural disaster such as a flood, fire, or tornado. Water damage can also occur due to household issues like leaky faucets or pipes that burst. Causing structural damage to your property because of unwanted water intrusion can generate a number of other challenges:

• Poor air quality
• Mold and mildew growth
• Humid atmosphere
• Unpleasant odors that permeate your ceilings, floors, and walls
• Damage or loss of furnishings, art, electronics and more

Mitigate the loss of possessions and structural damage by getting SERVPRO to begin water removal and cleanup as soon as possible.

Why You Should Call A Water Damage Specialist

Calling a specialist as soon as your property is impacted by water damage is important for many reasons. First, SERVPRO will perform a thorough assessment of your property to determine the nature and extent of the damage. This work empowers the specialists to develop a detailed, customized clean-up plan that will help optimize and expedite the restoration process. Additionally, SERVPRO can send multiple contractors to your property quickly to start the restoration process.

The Importance Of The Drying Process

After water pumps have removed the standing water, then vacuums, powerful air-moving machines, and dehumidifiers will eliminate the balance of water and moisture. With fast action and the right equipment, you can often lessen the need to replace hardwood floor, carpet, and walls. You can also minimize stains and bad odors that result from mold and mildew.

Acting immediately upon the onslaught of water intrusion is the most important step to take. Calling a team of professional water damage restoration experts like SERVPRO should be done right after reaching out to your insurance company. Here at SERVPRO, we're trained in offering a fast response that helps ensure that your home in Melbourne, FL is restored with lightning speed. "Like it never even happened." We're also pleased to provide all of our customers with 24/7 emergency services.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of South Brevard is locally owned and operated. When you have a water or flooding emergency, we’re nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Brevard county community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

We proudly serve Melbourne, FL, Palm Bay, FL, and surrounding areas.

Call us at: (321) 777-5131

Why Choose SERVPRO of South Brevard

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

When you heard construction crews were coming into your home to work, you may have the fear of dust going everywhere, debris left behind, unprofessional teams, and jobs not completed in a timely manner. And that is why SERVPRO of South Brevard is different. Here are some of the other reasons why we are different:

Our teams are professional and on time.
We cover all areas we are working in to keep dust off and prevent further damage to your items.
Our teams are on call 24/7 to respond to any disasters.
We are certified and carry licenses to ensure your mitigation, remediation, or reconstruction is done correctly.
Our project managers ensure your peace of mind by keeping you updated as we progress.
We work with your insurance and offer a transparent estimate.

SERVPRO of South Brevard is committed to you and making it feel "Like it never even happened."

#whySERVPROofSouthBrevard #topgoogleratingforwaterdamagecleanup #SERVPROSouthBrevard

Worried about flood damage affecting your building? Here’s What You Need to Know

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

What To Do When A Storm Is Headed Your Way?

Running a business in Palm Bay, FL, requires one to wear many hats, one of which is disaster prevention. When a storm is brewing on the horizon, what can you do to avoid or reduce flood damage from happening? Here’s a couple of tips to get you started:

Get to Know Your Local Area

Some locations are more susceptible to flooding than others, such as neighborhoods located in a valley, at the bottom of a slope or below sea level. This may seem self-explanatory and painfully obvious but you’d be surprised at how many business owners are unaware of how their location could impact their company in the event of a natural disaster. Find out if you are in a flood prone area and plan ahead.

Plan and Prepare with the Right Equipment

There are tons of modern equipment out there that are designed to minimize the impact of flood damage on your building. When in doubt, go with the tried and tested classic: the good ol’ sand bag. If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are plenty of alternatives out there that are reusable and are easier to transport. However, be sure to do your research before you commit to a purchase. Install storm shutters that are easy and quick to secure and check your electrical equipment to ensure they will be out of reach of flood waters.

Check Your Surroundings

Perhaps the most important part of avoiding storm damage is to look outside your immediate perimeter for things that may encourage floods. This means looking at street drains and storm grates and making sure that they are free of leaves and other debris that inhibit the flow of water. This is easily overlooked in the rush of preparing for an incoming storm and can have a disastrous impact on your safety.

If the weather gets the best of you, there are flood remediation experts in your state that can get your business up and running in no time. Flood damage is no joke, but if you are well prepared you can easily reduce the impact that a storm can have on your business.

Never leave cooking unattended.

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Unattended cooking caught on fire.

Did you know last year many kitchen fires were mainly caused by unattended cooking? 

Here are some stats of damages caused by kitchen fires:

Cooking fire stats: 

•  Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home* fires and fire injuries, causing 49% of home fires that resulted in 21% of the home fire deaths and 44% of the injuries.
• Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.
• Clothing is the item first ignited in less than 1% of these fires, but clothing ignitions lead to 8% of the home cooking equipment fire deaths.
• Ranges or cooktops account for three-fifths (61%) of home cooking fire incidents.
• Unattended equipment is a factor in one-third (31%) of reported home cooking fires and over half (53%) of the associated deaths.
• Frying dominates the cooking fire problem.

Here are some tips on cooking especially with oil or frying:  

What you should know about home cooking safety

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or too tired to cook. Do not cook.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains — away from your stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Safety considerations for cooking with oil

• Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop.
• Keep an eye on what you fry. If you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and/or carefully remove the pan from the burner. Smoke is a dangerous sign that the oil is too hot.
• Heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sautéing.
• Add food gently to the pot or pan so the oil does not splatter.
• Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time. Never throw water on the fire.
• If the fire does not go out or you don’t feel comfortable sliding a lid over the pan, get everyone out of your home. Call the fire department from outside

After the fire calls us we are open 24/7 and we are there when you need us the most. 

Heating Your Home

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a fire in your home, SERVPRO is there to help. But we also want to help you prevent fires in your home.

Did you know that heating equipment is the leading cause of home fire deaths, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)? Cold temperatures during these winter months have led to people frequently using their heaters. Half of these heating equipment fires predictably take place in the winter months of December, January, and February when heating equipment is used the most.

Abiding by the following safety measures will keep yourself and your family safe from any potential dangers of using heaters in your home.

Stay Three Feet Away

One way to stay safe when heating your home is to keep flammable items at least three feet away from heating equipment. That includes a furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.

Enforce a Three-Foot Rule for Children

The curiosity of children can cause a problem if they focus their attention on one of these heating options. Wanting to explore the equipment, the child could accidentally catch on fire or start a fire in the house. Therefore it’s a good idea to have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around all open fires and space heaters.

Don’t Use Your Oven As a Heater

Never attempt to use your oven to heat your home. The inefficacy of an oven as it pertains to heating could cause it to go out or not burn well which could potentially lead to carbon monoxide poisoning endangering the lives of your whole family.

Use Only Qualified Professionals When Installing Heating Equipment

Make sure a qualified professional install your heating equipment. An inexperienced person installing your space heater, water heater, or central heating equipment could lead to serious mistakes that could potentially cause a fire. Hiring qualified professionals will ensure that the person installing your equipment adheres to local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.

Get Your Annual Chimney Inspection

It’s important to have your heating equipment or chimney cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. In early 2000, the NFPA set a new standard that ensures that inspections include a thorough inspection and cleaning. Based on the purpose of the inspection (annual inspection, system change or real estate transaction, potential hazard) the inspector will inspect on one of three levels. The thoroughness of the inspection will increase at each level of the inspection.

Never Leave Portable Heaters On When Leaving a Room

Always turn off and unplug portable heaters when leaving a room or going to bed. Portable heaters can short out while you’re away and start a fire before you return.

Make Sure to Use Correct Fuel

Use the right kind of fuel when using fuel-burning space heaters. The manufacturer will specify which fuel that specific space heater will need. Using the wrong kind of fuel could cause the fuel to burn hotter than the equipment was designed for and could cause a fire in your home.

Use a Fireplace Screen

It’s important to make sure that your fireplace has a screen in front of it. Without a screen, sparks could fly into the room and start a fire. Also, if you plan to dispose of ashes in a metal container, ashes should be cooled prior to entering a metal container. The container should also be kept a safe distance away from your home.

Test Smoke Alarms Monthly

If a fire starts in your home in Malabar, FL, a smoke alarm can save your life. Smoke spreads quickly and a properly working smoke alarm will give you enough time to get out. So make sure you test your smoke alarms each month. Also, make sure to replace your smoke detectors once every ten years.

Use Ventilation

When burning anything larger than a candle, make sure to provide good ventilation. You can do this by opening windows, doors, or fireplace fumes. Good ventilation will substantially reduce the amount of smoke that can be harmful to those in the home. 

On cold days heating is a must. But without the use of certain precautions, it can be a very dangerous decision. By following the safety measures highlighted by the NFPA, you can ensure that you will be warm and safe during the cold winter months.

#heatersafety #spaceheater #righttempforhome #heatertips 

Always be ready for storms.

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Storm alert logo

Here in Florida, we have what we call a hurricane season and many let their guards down throughs the end of the season. This year we have a late storm building in the tropics that we are all keeping our eyes on. Here are some tips on getting prepared for storms. 

Here are some tips on storm readiness tips:

Sign up for local alerts and warnings. Monitor local news and weather reports.

Stock emergency supplies.

Prepare to evacuate ( if needed ) by testing your emergency communication plan(s), learning evacuation routes, having a place to stay, have cell phones charged, have a list of emergency contacts, and packing a “go bag.”

Collect and safeguard critical
financial, medical, educational, and
legal documents and records.

Protect your property by installing
shuttles, secure loose items, reviewing insurance
policies, and cataloging belongings.

Take photos of the inside and outside of your property including vehicles 

During the storm: 

Do not run a generator inside your garage or home. 

Stay updated with local and national weather sources.

Keep all devices charged and limit the usage during the storm.

Know where your keys are in case you have to get in your vehicle.

If you have to evacuate have a place to take your pets to plan ahead.

Do not go outside during the storm

Keep doors and windows closed 

After the storm

If you have damage to your home or business do not enter the property if it looks unsafe.

Take photos and try to document all you can

Call your SERVPRO of South Brevard at 321-777-5131  we are open 24/7

For updates on the

current storm and its track the following link.

https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/r…/graphics_at4+shtml/120119.shtml…

#SERVPROofsouthbrevard #stormtips #floridastormalert

Your dryer can cause a home fire.

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Outside dryer lint cover full of lint

So, What Are the Signs That Your Vent Needs Cleaning?

As a homeowner in West Brevard, you're probably very diligent about fire safety. You may have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors on every floor, but have you checked your dryer vent lately? Many homes are damaged each year as the result of a lint fire. If the vent isn't cleaned out regularly, a dryer fire can result. 

1. Clothes Are Taking Too Long To Dry

If your vent is blocked, your clothes can take up to two or three times as long to dry. You may find that the clothes you put in for a regular drying time are still a little damp when the cycle is over. This is happening because the blocked vent isn't allowing the moisture to be released to the outside.

2. Hot Dryer and Clothes

A blocked vent can also cause excess heat. If your laundry feels unusually hot when you take it out, and the outside of the dryer feels very hot when you touch it, this could be the problem.

3. Burning Smell

If you smell something burning inside the dryer, that's a sure sign of trouble. The drum casing, exhaust tube, and trap can get clogged, which makes it easy for a lint fire to start. If you're smelling smoke, turn off the dryer immediately and call a professional right away to inspect it.

4. No Regular Inspections

Your dryer vent should be inspected at least once a year by a vent cleaning specialist. A do-it-yourself job is certainly an option, but hiring a professional can ensure that the job is done thoroughly. These technicians are well acquainted with all the various brands of dryers and have the proper equipment to efficiently clean out the vent.

A lint fire can be a dangerous situation and cause a great deal of damage. But you can easily prevent a fire from happening by looking out for the signs outlined above.

#SERVPROofsouthbrevard #dryertipstopreventfire #cleaningdryerlint #dryersandhomefires 

Cleaning up after Septic and Sewage Back up

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Lid off the septic tank

Is It Possible To Clean up After Sewage Damage?

Cleaning up after a sewage disaster in your commercial building in Melbourne, FL, is possible, but more complicated than other water damage situations. This means that it is in your best interest to call in somebody who knows what they are doing, like a sewer cleanup restoration specialist. They will follow a procedure similar to the one outlined below.

Removal

If you've got a sewer backup, safety is a large consideration. Sewage is considered contaminated water, or black water. It's not good for people to be exposed to it. So, first, there are certain precautions you must take:

• Evacuate everyone who is not necessary away from the flooded area.
• Remove any additional hazards from the equation, such as shutting off electricity.
• Pump and drain out the contaminated water.
• Follow local toxic waste procedure to dispose of it.
  
  

Protection

When working on a sewer cleanup with black water, everyone must wear personal protective equipment. Try to leave no area of skin exposed- long rubber gloves and boots should be worn over long pants and sleeves. A pair of waders would be ideal. Goggles can be worn to protect the eyes. A face mask or respirator will help ensure that it does not reach the mouth or nose. If anyone were to be exposed, they should leave immediate to clean up.

Decontamination

After repairing your flooded toilet, when it's time for the cleaning stage, you will need to determine what can be saved and what must be thrown away. Porous materials such as ceiling tiles, drywall, and carpet may not be salvageable. Everything else must go through a multi-step process with specialized equipment to be treated for bacteria. Once that is done the contents can be thoroughly cleaned and dried. Hard surfaces like wood should then have a protective coating applied.

Sewer cleanup requires a specialized set of equipment, skills, and knowledge, so it is best not to attempt it yourself. 

We here at SERVPRO of South Brevard 

#SERVPROofsouthbrevard #septictanktip #sewagebackup #septictankbackupcleaning

House Flooding

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding on the kitchen floor due to broken pipe.

Water flooding in your house, business, or place of work can happen at any time. Most of the reasons for flooding are due to pipes breaking, backed up septic tanks, and/or water heaters. When those times happen we dry up the areas and think everything is dry and fine. But what most people do not realize is that moisture can be behind walls, cabinets, and rugs. 

Here are some facts: 

• Mildew (mold in early stage) and molds grow on wood products, ceiling tiles, cardboard, wallpaper, carpets, drywall, fabric, plants, foods, insulation, decaying leaves, and other organic materials. Mold growths, or colonies, can start to grow on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours.
• It is not visible right after it happens meaning if you do not get a rapid response on the matter it will grow. 
• Even if you dry the area it can be wet behind walls
• Bleach does not stop the growth behind the walls. 

What To Do After Flooding

• Turn off Electric to the affected area
• Call SERVPRO of West Brevard
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after the removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

#waterfloodinginhouse #waterdamage #SERVPROofsouthbrevard

Mold can be hidden even in the cleanest areas.

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Mold behind wallpaper.

Did you know mold does not need to be visible to be growing? Even in some of the cleanest areas, it can be behind walls.

Most common places like bathrooms, closets, around the ac handler, kitchens, garages, even some exteriors.  

Here are some facts:

• Mold can grow both indoors and outdoors
• It can start with just moisture 
• It can grow anywhere inside your area without you seeing it. 
• Some of the most common areas for mold is around the AC Handlers, Water heaters, Bathrooms, Closets, and Garage. 
• Drying out the area after it has been flooded it will not stop the mold from growing.
• There are several types of Molds 

 Think you got mold growing in your home, business, or offices call our team of experts. 

Flooding and Why Time is important.

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

Pipe leaking with overflowing water

Many of us have experienced a leaky pipe, storm damage, backed up toilet, overflowed tub, and even septic back up. When a flood happened we rush to dry up the floor and clean the area. But what most do know is the moisture can cause mold to start growing. Did you know that mildew and mold will develop within 24-48 hours of water exposure?

Here are some important tips when floods happen. 

• Take photos of the flooded area from the outside area
• Shut off electric to the area flooded ( do not enter a flooded room with electric on ) 
• Try to dry most of it if possible  
• CALL our offices at 321-777-5131

SERVPRO of South Brevard will make it feel

"Like it never even happened." 

Is It Possible To Clean up After Sewage Damage?

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

When working on a sewer cleanup with black water, everyone must wear personal protective equipment

Is It Possible To Clean up After Sewage Damage?

Cleaning up after a sewage disaster in your commercial building in Melbourne, FL, is possible, but more complicated than other water damage situations. This means that it is in your best interest to call in somebody who knows what they are doing, like a sewer cleanup restoration specialist. They will follow a procedure similar to the one outlined below.

Removal

If you've got a sewer backup, safety is a large consideration. Sewage is considered contaminated water, or black water. It's not good for people to be exposed to it. So, first, there are certain precautions you must take:

• Evacuate everyone who is not necessary away from the flooded area.
• Remove any additional hazards from the equation, such as shutting off electricity.
• Pump and drain out the contaminated water.
• Follow local toxic waste procedure to dispose of it.
  
  

Protection

When working on a sewer cleanup with black water, everyone must wear personal protective equipment. Try to leave no area of skin exposed- long rubber gloves and boots should be worn over long pants and sleeves. A pair of waders would be ideal. Goggles can be worn to protect the eyes. A face mask or respirator will help ensure that it does not reach the mouth or nose. If anyone were to be exposed, they should leave immediate to clean up.

Decontamination

After repairing your flooded toilet, when it's time for the cleaning stage, you will need to determine what can be saved and what must be thrown away. Porous materials such as ceiling tiles, drywall and carpet may not be salvageable. Everything else must go through a multi-step process with specialized equipment to be treated for bacteria. Once that is done the contents can be thoroughly cleaned and dried. Hard surfaces like wood should then have a protective coating applied.

Sewer cleanup requires a specialized set of equipment, skills and knowledge, so it is best not to attempt it yourself. Consider finding a restoration company you trust so you'll be ready for anything.

3 Things You Should Know About Roof Damage Mitigation

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Roof damage in Port Malabar, FL

3 Things You Should Know About Roof Damage Mitigation

After a storm in Port Malabar, FL, your house might have some damage that you need to take care of. In some cases, this will include roof damage. Before repairs can begin, however, the restoration company might need to do some mitigation. The following are a few things that you should know about this process.

1. When Do You Need Mitigation?

If you have roof damage that could become worse over time, then mitigation should be done right away. It will likely be required if you have missing shingles, cracks or holes in your roof. After an inspection has been performed, mitigation is the next step. Particularly if the damage is severe, it is important to get it done quickly.

2. Why Do You Need Mitigation?

The purpose of mitigation is to keep any damage to your home from getting worse. There are several things that could happen before repairs begin that could make the process even more complicated and time-consuming. Even small cracks can allow water to get inside the house, which can damage your belongings or the structure of the building. It can contribute to the growth of mold as well. Holes in the roof can allow further wind damage and can even let in small animals. Mitigation will help prevent this.

3. What Happens During Mitigation?

During the mitigation process, the cleanup and restoration company will cover any cracks or holes in the roof to prevent water, wind or debris from creating more problems. This is often done with a tarp, but more severe cases might require the use of wooden boards. Mitigation can sometimes include cleanup and sanitization as well.

If mitigation is not performed on the roof damage to your house, it could make the restoration process more difficult. When damage worsens, it requires more time and money to repair. Because of this, you should always have mitigation done as soon as you can.

3 Helpful Tips for Roof Repair

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

It's often recommended that a fire cleanup be conducted by a professional restoration service

Three Things You Want To Know About Fire Cleanup

If your business and Melbourne, FL, has suffered roof damage as a result of a fire, you may find yourself looking for tips on how to go about a fire cleanup. Here are three things you may want to know.

1. Protect the Damaged Area

It is important to protect any damaged areas to your company property until repairs can be made. You may want to consider boarding over the damage or taking advantage of tarp services offered by your local fire restoration company. Doing so can help prevent inclement weather from making any damage worse, as well as prevent wild animals from getting into the property.

1. Contact a Professional

It's often recommended that a fire cleanup be conducted by a professional restoration service. This is largely due to the fact that a fire can cause a number of types of damage, and that these professionals have the tools and knowledge to look for and repair any related damages along with the original problem. A restoration service may also be able to communicate with your insurance company in order to provide them with information they may need to process your claim.

1. Understand Possible Related Damage

In many cases the initial damage caused by fire can lead to additional problems, and it's important to understand this when dealing with a fire restoration. After a fire you may be looking at water damage and flooding, as well as roof repair, smoke damage, and potential mold problems. Understanding that these issues can be related to a fire can help you take the appropriate safety and clean up steps.

When conducting a fire cleanup at your place of business it's important to remember these three things. Protect any damage areas against further damage until repairs can be made. Contact a local fire restoration company in order to have repairs completed as quickly as possible. Understand any damages related to fire such as water damage or flooding so that proper clean-up procedures can be taken.

What to Do About Furnace Puff Back Damage

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Furnace puff back up damage

After your business in West Melbourne, FL, has been harmed by a fire, there are likely many forms of residual damage found throughout your building. One of the main issues that you may encounter is damage caused by furnace puff back. This problem occurs when smoke and soot from the fire enter the furnace, and it must be taken care of immediately. Follow the steps below to eliminate puff back damage in your building.

Report Damage

First, you need to examine any signs of damage caused by puff back. To determine the degree of your loss, search the building for traces of soot or smoke on:

• Furniture
• Walls
• Floors
• Carpets
  
  

Once you’ve identified all signs of damage, call up your insurance company and report your loss. Your provider will let you know whether or not furnace puff back is covered by your insurance policy.

Call for a Repair

After you’ve reported the damage, you need to ensure that the problem doesn’t get worse. Call an HVAC technician as soon as possible to have your oil furnace repaired. Fixing your furnace helps to thwart any further puff back damage and shows that you’re making an effort to control the situation. Insurance adjusters like to see that you’ve taken action to prevent additional harm to your business, which can help support your insurance claim.

Contact Professional Restoration Services

Having your furnace repaired is only the first step towards recovering from the damage. To have your business return to its normal condition, be sure to contact a professional restoration company immediately. By using the proper tools to clean and sanitize the affected area, these specialists can remove any traces of smoke or soot that are present in your building. Trusting a professional to properly take care of any puff back damage in your business can help you have peace of mind during the restoration process.

3 Steps To Banish Black Mold From a Shower

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

Bathrooms with a shower should be properly ventilated to prevent mold growth due to humidity

3 Steps to Prevent a Shower Becoming Moldy

Showers combine all of the elements mold needs to thrive. Heat, moisture and organic material can support many types of shower mold. Take these three steps to prevent a shower from becoming moldy.

1. Increase Bathroom Ventilation

Mold thrives in environments with limited air circulation. Ventilation promotes faster drying, which reduces residual moisture levels that support growth. Make sure the ventilation fan you install is rated for the square footage of a bathroom.

2. Regularly Clean Showers

Cleaning a shower can help to prevent shower mold from becoming a problem. Mold requires organic material for nutriment, and is less likely to grow if you regularly eliminate buildup from a shower. It can also be helpful to remove excess water from the walls or door of a shower with a squeegee.

It is a good idea to clean and scrub shower surfaces at least once a week, scrub grout once or twice a month, and periodically treat the shower with a fungicide cleaner or a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water.

3. Maintain Grout Sealant

Scrubbing grout is necessary to remove mildew or mold, but abrasion will also wear down the seal over time. When the grout between tiles or around the base of the shower wears out, this can lead to leaks that allow water to penetrate behind walls or spill out onto the floor of a bathroom. Check the condition of grout every few months and reseal when necessary.

These three preventative measures can help to stop the growth of shower mold. If you can still smell a musty odor after taking these steps, water may be leaking behind tiles and collecting in wall cavities. Do not search for hidden mold on your own. Black mold may be present, and some species are toxigenic. Contact a service that offers mold testing and remediation in Eau Gallie, FL.

4 Steps To Take After a Fire

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

Contact a professional restoration service in your Palm Bay,FL area

4 Steps To Take After a Fire

After a fire, your Palm Bay, FL, home will likely require fire restoration to return it to its previous condition. If you have homeowners or renters insurance, this process will often be covered by your policy. Here are a few things you should do after a fire to ensure that the claims process goes well.

1. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the first things you should do after any damage to your home occurs is to call your insurance agent. Contacting him or her right away will allow you to get the process started quickly. Because a fire insurance claim may take a while, you will want to begin as soon as possible.

2. Contact a Professional Restoration Service

In some cases, your insurance company or agent may give you a list of restoration services that they recommend. You should arrange to have these professionals come in as soon as you can. They will perform smoke cleaning as well as any necessary repairs to the building. They may be able to salvage some of your damaged belongings as well.

3. Take Photos of Affected Areas and Belongings

While you are waiting for the fire restoration company, it is a good idea to take pictures of any areas of your home that have been damaged in the fire. The insurance company will use these to help determine the amount of your claim. The restoration company may also take pictures before they begin working.

4. Prevent Further Damage

Sometimes, your insurance company will require remediation to prevent damage from worsening. You can start on this before the professionals arrive, moving smaller items to safer locations and blocking off areas that haven’t been affected. The restoration company, however, will include mitigation and remediation in their services.

Because fire restoration can be a lengthy and costly process, you should do what you can to ensure your insurance company approves your claim. Acting quickly and contacting them right away is a good place to start.

Dealing With a Sprinkler Flood in Your Business

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

Fire sprinklers caused water damage in Indialantic, FL

A typical business owner in Indialantic, FL, doesn’t spend time pondering the effects of catastrophic flooding due to fire sprinklers being activated. However, it’s a problem that can quickly get out of control and cost tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage. The obvious solution to the problem is prevention, but you first need to know what causes the issues.

Reasons For Accidental Activation

Contrary to popular belief, modern sprinkler systems aren’t activated by fire alarms or smoke from burnt food in an employee breakroom. They instead have to be subjected to extreme heat that will either burst the red liquid bulb or melt the metal sensor. However, there are cases where they will activate accidentally, and the following are common reasons for this to happen:

Sprinkler heads being used as hangers

Improper installation

Vandalization

Factory accidents

Immediate Steps To Mitigate Losses

In an emergency flooding situation, the first critical step is to turn off the water. In an office or factory setting, it’s important to have multiple designated employees who know how to do this. Once the water is shut off, cleanup can begin. Hundreds of gallons of water can be released in a short period of time, so water damage to floors, walls and machinery happens quickly. The most thorough plan is to contact a water restoration company, which will be able to correctly dry each surface and reduce mold risk.

Long Term Approach

Once the initial cleanup is underway, the next step is to contact the insurance company and prevent the problem from ever occurring again. Employees must be trained to never touch or hang anything near a sprinkler head, and ideal placement for them is in a location difficult for a person or machine to accidentally contact.

Flooding in your business can seem overwhelming. However, there are steps you can take to prevent and minimize damage. A good water restoration company will have your facility looking “Like it never even happened.”

Bathroom Supply Lines

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

Supply line damage may lead to some pretty serious problems, such as standing water or mold growth

When is It the Time to Replace a Supply Line in Your Bathroom?

Many of your household appliances that use water require a supply line. Because they are so commonly used, supply line damage can cause some major issues. It is important to call a professional as soon as you notice an issue. This can help prevent water build up in your home in Melbourne Beach, FL. Changing these lines when needed may actually help you avoid problems later on. How do you know when it's time to replace it though?

Check the Warranty

You may find that many of these hoses come with a warranty. It really just depends on what type you have. Most plastic lines come with a 5-8 year warranty. This means that you are responsible for replacing it if anything happens to it after that time is up. Steel braided ones often have a lifetime guarantee. While they are generally more expensive than the plastic ones, the benefits may be worth the extra cost. Always ask the seller about the warranty before you decide to purchase.

Watch for Damage

Supply line damage may lead to some pretty serious problems, such as standing water or mold growth. This is why it is a good idea to have a professional come out if you notice a supply line leak. Always shut off the water if you see an issue. This could be anything from a small bathroom leak to pretty serious flooding. Turning off the water can help prevent further damage from happening in your home.

If you are still unsure whether you have supply line damage, it is best to call a professional restoration company to come take a look. They may be able to help you resolve a number of issues that arise in this type of situation, such as fixing the leak and cleaning up the water. If your line gets replaced, always ask what type of warranty you are getting so that you will be aware if any future problems occur.

When Do You Need To Clean Your Dryer Vent?

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

A lint fire can be a dangerous situation and cause a great deal of damage

So, What Are the Signs That Your Vent Needs Cleaning?

As a homeowner in Port Malabar, FL, you're probably very diligent about fire safety. You may have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors on every floor, but have you checked your dryer vent lately? Many homes are damaged each year as the result of a lint fire. If the vent isn't cleaned out regularly, a dryer fire can result. 

1. Clothes Are Taking Too Long To Dry

If your vent is blocked, your clothes can take up to two or three times as long to dry. You may find that clothes you put in for a regular drying time are still a little damp when the cycle is over. This is happening because the blocked vent isn't allowing the moisture to be released to the outside.

2. Hot Dryer and Clothes

A blocked vent can also cause excess heat. If your laundry feels unusually hot when you take it out, and the outside of the dryer feels very hot when you touch it, this could be the problem.

3. Burning Smell

If you smell something burning inside the dryer, that's a sure sign of trouble. The drum casing, exhaust tube and trap can get clogged, which makes it easy for a lint fire to start. If you're smelling smoke, turn off the dryer immediately and call a professional right away to inspect it.

4. No Regular Inspections

Your dryer vent should be inspected at least once a year by a vent cleaning specialist. A do-it-yourself job is certainly an option, but hiring a professional can ensure that the job is done thoroughly. These technicians are well acquainted with all the various brands of dryers and have the proper equipment to efficiently clean out the vent.

A lint fire can be a dangerous situation and cause a great deal of damage. But you can easily prevent a fire from happening by looking out for the signs outlined above.

Industrial Hygienists Locate and Document Mold Infestation

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

If your home in the Sebastian, FL, area suffers from a mold infestation, it’s time to pick up the phone

Industrial Hygienists Are Mold Infestation Experts

Industrial hygienists also go by the name environmental hygienists. A hygienist can evaluate your mold problem, create a report and explain the findings. The report includes types of mold present, the infested locations and the severity of the infestation.

When it comes to insurance, the hygienist’s report plays a crucial role. The insurance adjuster uses the report to determine a course of action for mold cleaning. Insurance companies depend on the expert opinions of Certified Industrial Hygienists. Without an expert evaluation, a successful cleanup is difficult.

Mold Cannot Hide From Industrial Hygienists

One might think that a hygienist is someone who walks through your home with a clipboard and takes notes. That certainly part of the job. Don’t be surprised when the gloves, mask and tools come out. The hygienist’s job is also to find mold wherever it hides. The job includes removing wallboard and searching crawlspaces to discover mold’s hiding places.

If your home in the Sebastian, FL, area suffers from a mold infestation, it’s time to pick up the phone. There are local certified hygienists and mold remediation specialists who are ready to evaluate your mold problem and begin the mold cleaning process right away. They are here to help.

The 3 Best Methods To Identify a Leaky Toilet

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

Air movers in a water damage Melbourne, FL bathroom

How To Detect A Toilet Leak

While some problem areas around your Melbourne, FL, home often make themselves known in a very obvious way, some can go silently undetected for long periods of time. One of these problems can come in the form of a leaking toilet, which can cause both water leaks on your bathroom floor and an expensive utility bill, to boot. If you think your home may be experiencing a leaky toilet, here are the three best methods for detecting a problem and solving it before the consequences become any worse.

1. Test the toilet water tank using food coloring. While it might seem strange, using food dye as a method for seeking out leaks is quite effective. Start with the toilet you’re concerned about and flush it normally. Wait through its entire cycle, then add 4-5 drops of red or blue food coloring to the tank’s water and wait 20-30 minutes. Once the time has passed, return to the toilet and check the bowl for changes in color. If the water is clear, there’s no sign of a leak. However, if the water is slightly discolored by the dye, you’ve found your leaking toilet.

2. Check for problems with the float. While there’s an overflow pipe installed in every toilet tank to prevent just that situation, there can sometimes be overflow anyway due to a faulty float. Since the float is supposed to tell the inlet valve when to shut off the water, any extra water can indicate a possible leak, meaning you might need a new float.

3. Consider that the wax ring might be dry or installed incorrectly. Wax rings on toilets dry out all the time, making them an easy suspect when you come across a bathroom leak. Inspect yours thoroughly to see if this is the source of your water issue.

If you find yourself needing more assistance with identifying a leaking toilet in your Melbourne, FL, home, contacting professional water restoration experts who are here to help is the easiest way to ensure your water problem is solved.

5 Preparedness Tips for Flooding

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Have sandbags ready on entry points to your building

How to Prepare for the Possibility of Flooding

Storm season can certainly keep you on your toes. When you have a business in Melbourne, FL, it’s good to know how to prepare for the possibility of flooding. Here are five tips to help you be well prepared for anything a storm may send your way.

1. Have an Emergency Plan

A big part of preparing for flood damage is simply having a plan of action in place. Evacuation paths should be mapped, and those maps should be posted on every level of your building so that people know where to go in an emergency. Designate emergency responsibilities before the disaster occurs so that people know what is expected of them.

2. Waterproof Your Building

Even if your building is flooded during a storm, having a solid building envelope can lower your flood cleanup costs. Have your building inspected regularly to find cracks or spots that are worn so that you can get the necessary repairs.

3. Elevate Equipment and Furniture

Electrical equipment and furniture can both be damaged beyond repair during flooding. Elevate furniture, sockets, electrical panels, appliances and all wiring where floodwaters can’t get to them.

4. Have Sandbags Ready

A good way to stave off excess water is to put up barriers. Set sandbags near doors, windows and other vulnerable entry points to your building. Barriers may delay the flow of water enough that you can avoid storm damage altogether.

5. Update Your Insurance Coverage

It’s a smart idea to check your insurance policies periodically to make sure that all potential problems are covered. If you don’t have a policy that pays for services from storm cleanup experts, you may have to pay for a lot of damage out of pocket the next time a storm heads your way.

Flooding is a common occurrence when there is a storm in your area. By making sure your employees, your building and your insurance is adequately prepared, you can prevent a lot of damage and handle the problems that do occur with relative ease.

Escaping a Fire

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

Causing more than 2,500 deaths and 12,600 injuries each year in the United States, house fires are extremely dangerous for those that are unprepared for the event. But they are preventable.

To be prepared should a fire occur in your home, it’s important to know what to do:

• before a fire

• during a fire

• after a fire

To ensure that your family remains safe throughout the ordeal.

It takes just two minutes for a fire to become life-threatening and just five minutes for a residence to become consumed by a fire. While the flames are what most people fear, that’s not what’s most dangerous as the heat and smoke do most of the damage. This is because the inhalation of extremely hot air can sear the lungs. A fire also has the ability to produce poisonous gases that can make you disoriented and drowsy making them all the more dangerous. In fact, the leading cause of fire deaths is asphyxiation which exceeds burns by a three to one ratio.

Preparing for a Fire

To make sure you’re prepared in the event of a fire, there are certain precautionary measures that must be taken to ensure your safety. The most important step is to create an evacuation plan for your family. Every second counts when a home is filling up with smoke so you need to know the fastest way out. Creating a plan and going over it with each member of your family will ensure that everyone can get out safely.

When developing your evacuation plan, make sure that you have two routes to escape each room in case one is blocked. Once your plan is formed, you should practice the plan at least twice a year. Being prepared for a potential fire means making sure that windows aren’t locked, screens can be taken out quickly, and that security bars can be opened. You should also have your family practice feeling around in the dark with their eyes closed replicating the environment they’ll be in if there’s a fire and teach the children not to hide from firefighters who are there to help.

The most important device to making sure you can safety escape a fire is a smoke alarm. Having working smoke alarms will significantly increase your chances of surviving the fire. To make sure that your smoke alarm will alert you of a fire in the home, test the batteries monthly, replace the batteries at least once a year, and replace the smoke alarm every eight to 10 years.

How to Escape a Fire

If a fire does occur in your home, you should escape the building as quickly as possible. However, there are some things you need to remember to safety evacuate. The first step is to get to the floor and crawl to the exit as heavy, toxic smoke and poisonous gases gather initiallly at the ceiling. When you get to a door, feel the doorknob and door before opening it. If either the doorknob or door is hot, you should leave it closed and go to your alternate way out. You should also leave the door closed if smoke is coming from around it. If you are able to open the door, do so slowly and be ready to shut it quickly should heavy smoke or fire be on the other side.

But what happens if you can’t get out? If the event occurs where you’re trapped in a room, cover the vents and cracks around any doors with cloth or tape to keep any smoke out. Then call the fire department and tell them where you are. You can use a light colored cloth or flashlight to get the attention of the firefighters. If you catch on fire yourself, simply stop, drop, and roll with your hands over your face to put yourself out.

What to Do After a Fire

If you’ve suffered a fire in your home rendering it uninhabitable and you have nowhere to go, contact your local disaster relief service like The Red Cross. If you have fire insurance, call the insurance company for details on protecting your property. You also should contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Brevard to remediate the situation as soon as possible. The sooner they begin the restoration process, the more of your home and possessions will be salvaged.

A house fire is a devastating event that can lead to serious injury or death if you’re not properly prepared. These tips will ensure that you’re prepared for a fire and that you and your family can escape safely.

Water Problems You May Find in Your Office Building

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

A pipe break could expel large amounts of water into your facility which could result in significant flooding

As a business leader, you’ve got enough to worry about with your day-to-day operations that you don’t want to think about problems with your facility. However, it’s not uncommon for Sebastian, FL, companies to contend with leaking pipes or other matters that can lead to flooding and water damage. It’s important to identify the causes of these potential disasters and troubling incidents so you can prevent them and more effectively clean them up.

Potential Hazards

In some cases, something such as a toilet backup or a slow leak in a pipe will only cause minor concerns in a bathroom or break room. However, if these things go undetected, you could face significant financial consequences or even potential interruptions to your business.

• Flooding could damage or ruin the carpet, drywall, ceiling tile, furniture or electronics.

• Water damage could create an unsafe environment for employees.

• Water damage may not be covered by your insurance.
  
  

The Gradual Issues

Leaking pipes could drip water onto floors or into the walls of your office over a long period of time without you even realizing it. Over the course of months or even years, this can rot away the drywall or subfloor. This problem could even encourage the growth of mold or other fungal development.

A Sudden Rush

If your building is aging, you may need to take a look at the plumbing system and make sure the pipes are still in good shape. A pipe break could expel large amounts of water into your facility, which could result in significant flooding. Even if you react quickly to this incident, you could still face heavy costs and loss of equipment and supplies.

Mother Nature

A weak roof or poor foundation could be vulnerable if heavy rain hit during a thunderstorm. Leaking pipes will put water on your floor slowly, but severe weather could inundate you with too much to handle.

If any of these events occur in your building, you know where to turn. Contact a commercial water damage specialist immediately.

Does Your Business Have a Plan?

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Will your business recover after a natural disaster?

How quickly your company can get back to business after a hurricane, fire, or flood often depends on the emergency planning done beforehand. The regular occurrence of natural disaster demonstrates the importance of being prepared for any emergency. Only 50% of businesses never reopen following a disaster. While each situation is unique, your organization can be better prepared if you plan carefully, put emergency procedures in place and practice for all kinds of emergencies.

Basic measures business owners and managers can take to begin preparing.

Develop a Business Continuity Plan

Begin by identifying operations that are critical to survival and recovery. Then carefully assess your internal and external functions to determine which staff, material, procedures, and equipment are absolutely essential to keep the business operating.

Review Insurance Coverage

Understand what your policy does and does not cover. Check with your provider about things such as, physical losses, flood coverage, and business interruption. Inadequate coverage can lead to major financial loss.

Prepare Your Emergency Plan

Communication with your employees is central before, during, and after a disaster. Be sure to share emergency information with your staff.

Practice the Emergency Plan

The ability to evacuate workers and customers effectively can save lives. Establish evacuation producers and ensure your staff knows the route.

Secure Your Facility and Equipment

Install exit signs, fire extinguishers, and smoke alarms and detectors in appropriate areas.

Improve Cyber Security

By using anti-virus software, firewalls, and secure passwords, this will better protect your business’s data and information.

Locally Owned, with National Resources

SERVPRO of South Brevard is locally owned and operated so we are part of the Melbourne Beach, Florida community too. When you have a fire, flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help.

As fire and water damage specialists, we have the experience, the expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property restored quickly and thoroughly.  Please call (321) 777-5131

Preparing for Storms with the National Preparedness Community

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Make a Plan, Build a Kit, and Get Involved. If you need help in Viera call us.

SERVPRO of West Brevard and the National Preparedness Community is where we connect and collaborate on emergency preparedness. Use us to empower yourself to prepare and to coordinate preparedness activities with your family, neighbors, co-workers, and those with whom you may study or worship. We contribute what we can about what we know; ask for what we need; keep doing what is working; communicate about what is not working, and when possible, offer suggestions towards solutions. When we are connected and collaborate, we are more effective and efficient at educating and empowering ourselves to prepare for disasters and emergencies.

The Ready Campaign established four universal building blocks of emergency preparedness:

• Be informed

• Make a Plan

• Build a Kit

• Get Involved.

America’s PrepareAthon! builds on this foundation by encouraging millions of Americans to focus on a simple, specific activity that will increase preparedness.

America’s PrepareAthon!, a new national community-based campaign for action that focuses on increasing emergency preparedness through hazard-specific drills, group discussions and exercises. National PrepareAthon! Days are held every spring and fall. During National Preparedness Month we ask you, your family, community and workplace to take action by planning a National PrepareAthon! Day on or around September 30th. We recommend using digital media tools as a way to promote National Preparedness Month, September 1st-30th.

If you are in Melbourne, Palm Bay, Viera, West Melbourne, Malabar or anywhere in Flagler County and are in need of information on  Disaster Assistance, please call us at (386) 447-2202 or see http://www.fema.gov/apply for help.

4 Simple Mold Prevention Tips

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a Palm Bay, FL basement

Mold Prevention

Mold: It’s a sight no one at work wants to see. The discovery of mold in your Palm Bay, FL, office can cause alarm with everyone. Not only this, but mold growth can result in heavy costs on your part, as your insurance may not cover some of the damages. Luckily, you don’t simply have to cross for your fingers and hope that fungal development won’t occur in your building after water damage or the discovery of other mold-friendly conditions. Here are four tried-and-true ways you can get proactive and work to prevent mold on your premises.

Pay Attention to Humidity

Mold thrives in humid environments, so be aware of areas at work where the humidity levels may be on the high side. If you spot concerns, get a dehumidifier. Basements, attics and the areas under sinks are common culprits.

Watch for Flooding

Water damage is perhaps the most common source for mold trouble. After a heavy storm or pipe break, hire a competent water cleanup team to thoroughly remove the water and sanitize the area.

Repair Leaks Promptly

Inspect your kitchens, break rooms and restrooms regularly. As soon as you spot trouble with pipes and faucets, especially persistent dripping and leaks, get the right people on the job to fix the issues.

Ventilation Is Critical

Mold prevention will be successful if your building has effective ventilation throughout all areas. This is especially important in kitchens or laundry areas. If you have these rooms in your building, ensure that you have functioning fans in them.

Like any disaster or unforeseen incident, preventing mold may not be 100 percent possible, but you can significantly increase the likelihood that this unwanted invader will stay away from the premises. Don’t wait for water damage or other issues to spring you into action. Pay attention to all of these factors so you can keep mold away.

Keeping The Workplace Safe

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Keeping the Workplace Safe

Encourage your employees to...

• Practice Good Hygiene 
  • Stop shaking hands – use other noncontact methods of greetin
  • Clean hands with sanitizer or wash their hands frequently
  • Avoid touching their faces and cover coughs and sneezes
  • Disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, tables, desks, and handrails regularly
  • Increase ventilation by opening windows or adjusting air conditioning

• Be Careful with Meetings and Travel
  • Use videoconferencing for meetings when possible
  • When not possible, hold meetings in open, well-ventilated spaces
  • Consider adjusting or postponing large meetings or gatherings
  • Assess the risks of business travel

• Handle Food Carefully 
  • Limit sharing food with others
  • Strengthen health screenings for cafeteria staff and their close contacts
  • Ensure cafeteria staff and their close contacts practice strict hygiene

• Stay Home if...
  • They are feeling sick
  • They have a sick family member in their home

About Coronavirus

The CDC is responding to an outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and has spread to 60 locations internationally (as of this publication), including cases in the United States. The virus known as “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”) is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person or through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Biohazard Cleanup and Restoration

3/28/2020 (Permalink)

Common Biohazard Scenarios

Sewage Backups

Sewage backups and dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO of South Brevard Professionals remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture, and help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

Bloodborne Pathogens

SERVPRO of South Brevard Professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO of South Brevard Professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

Methamphetamine Labs

SERVPRO realizes many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. SERVPRO of South Brevard Professionals follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

24 Hour Emergency Service

Biohazard emergencies don’t always happen during regular business hours, and that’s why SERVPRO of South Brevard Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night. 

We Are Cleanup and Biohazard Experts

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

About Coronavirus

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to respond to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a new coronavirus that was first detected in China and has now spread internationally. While the virus is termed coronavirus, the sickness that results after infection has been termed COVID-19. COVID-19 has now been declared a pandemic, which is a global outbreak of a disease.  

Need Specialized Cleaning Services? Call Us Today 321-777-5131

Symptoms

Illness from COVID-19 is wide ranging, from mild to severe symptoms and death. According to the CDC, symptom may appear two days to two weeks after exposure:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

It is important to consult your medical provider if you develop any severe or concerning symptoms.

Expert Level Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of South Brevard professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Need Specialized Cleaning Services? Call Us Today 321-777-5131

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Sources:

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/summary.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fsummary.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fabout%2Fsymptoms.html

Dirtiest Items in your Home

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

How many people have touched your door knobs in your house?

Faucet Handles

Anyone who comes into your home and uses the bathroom may or may not wash their hands properly, therefore leaving behind germs all over your bathroom sink’s faucet handles. To wash mix 2 cups of warm water with 2 teaspoons of dishwashing liquid in a small bowl. Soak a washrag into the mixture and scrub the faucet. Use an old toothbrush dipped in baking soda to scrub areas with hard mineral deposits. Lastly, rinse the faucet and shine with a microfiber cloth.

Door Knobs

How often do you clean your door knobs? Most people simply do not think of their door knob when cleaning the house. Take a moment and think about how many people have touched your door knobs in the last month or two. That’s a lot of dirty hands. To wash spray the surface with vinegar and wipe dry with a clean cloth.

Pets Beds

Our pets are part of our family and we love them but we don’t have to love your beds. Their beds should be cleaned as often as we change our mattress sheets, right? Especially since our pets are outsides using the restroom several times a day and then go lay down in the beds. To wash, first vacuum the bed of all the hair and debris. Then remove the cover from the base of the bed (most beds have one) and put both in the washing machine (wash on sanitize cycle). Once washed, switch to the dryer and use a dryer sheet to reduce static electricity and remove excess hair.

Cutting Boards

Our cutting boards need a little more attention than we think, since its purpose it to cut the food that we eat on them. If not washed properly, bacteria can grow and affects our food. To wash properly scrubbing the wooden or plastic cutting boards with a paste made from baking soda, salt, and water (1 tablespoon each). Then Rinse thoroughly with hot water.

Sponges              

Sponges are used to clean, but how often to you actually spend time cleaning the sponges, themselves. To wash, mix ¾ cup of bleach in one gallon of water, and soak the sponge for five minutes.

Remote Controls

Remote controls are one of the most hand held items in your house and with all those hands touching them how often are they cleaned? To clean use a lint-free cloth to wipe down the remote with rubbing alcohol (or use an electronics cleaning wipe). Make sure to clean the top, bottom, and sides of the remotes. For the buttons on the remote and any hard to reach areas, use a cotton swab.

4 Basic Steps For Replacing a Leaky Toilet

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Replacing a leaky toilet in Port Malabar, FL

Replacing a Leaky Toilet

Your toilet was built to last a long time, but it cannot last forever. Over time, the fixture may begin to work less efficiently and can break or develop cracks. If you have decided that it is time to replace the leaking toilet in your Port Malabar, FL home, here are some basic steps to help you get the job done.

1. Disconnect the Supply Line

Before you begin any work on the toilet, you need to make sure that it is no longer connected to the water supply line. Drain as much water from the toilet as you can and dry the rest with a sponge or towel. This will prevent any messes during the removal.

2. Remove the Old Toilet

Once the leaking toilet has been dried, you can begin the process of removing it. You should unscrew any bolts that are securing it to the floor and then move the fixture back and forth gently to break the wax seal before moving the commode to another area.

3. Prepare the Area

After the old toilet has been removed, you will need to clean up the area before you can install the new one. You should scrape off any wax that remains on the gasket and check that nothing has been damaged during the process. If everything looks fine, then you can proceed to the next step.

4. Install the Toilet

If the leaking toilet has been removed successfully and there are no damages to the area that need to be repaired, you can begin the installation. Make sure that the toilet is placed correctly and is parallel to the wall behind it before securely tightening the bolts. Depending on your building code, you may need to seal the base with caulk.

If you don’t feel confident replacing your toilet on your own, or if there is already damage in your bathroom, a water damage repair service might be able to help. They can make any necessary repairs and ensure that everything is installed correctly to prevent the need for future toilet overhauls.

Commonsense precautions to help control spread of the flu virus

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

Flu season is here, and it’s often marked by the offers of free flu shots in neighborhood pharmacies and stores across the country. SERVPRO cleaning pros—experts in cleaning and sanitizing building materials, surfaces, and contents after fire, water, or natural disasters—remind home and business owners how important it is to step-up routine cleaning efforts during this time of year. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the flu virus can remain viable on surfaces for up to 48 hours. Cleaning surfaces and objects that are frequently touched minimizes the likelihood of contacting the flu virus when you touch an infected surface.

According to the CDC, nearly 15 percent of the U.S. population suffered from the flu in 2018. More than 950,000 people were hospitalized and almost 80,000 people died from flu complications, making 2018 the most severe flu season since 2009.

“As an emergency response company, we understand the hidden danger of contaminated surfaces in a workplace or home,” said Rick Isaacson, CEO of SERVPRO Industries, LLC. “This time of year, the flu virus can be a ‘hidden danger’ at home, at work, and in the community. It is a serious illness, and we want everyone to take it seriously.”

The CDC recommends the following to help protect yourself or your loved ones from contracting the flu.

1. Get vaccinated. The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccination as the first and most important protection against this serious virus.
2. Thoroughly wash your hands (20 seconds or more with soap and water) or sanitize them frequently throughout the day, even if you are not infected, to help protect yourself and others.
3. Beware of frequently touched surfaces, like handrails and doorknobs. Keep them clean at home using a bleach and water solution and clean your hands as soon as possible if you must touch them in public.

If you or a family member comes down with the flu despite these precautions, keep in mind the flu spreads primarily through droplets from a sick person when they cough, sneeze, or talk. With that in mind, the CDC offers the following guidelines to help control the spread of the disease:

1. Stay home and keep your distance. Infected droplets from a sick person’s nose or mouth can travel up to six feet and land in the noses and mouths of people nearby, exposing them to the illness.
2. Wait until you are fever free – without medications – for at least 24 hours before returning to school, work, or normal activities.
3. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue, your sleeve, or your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of the tissue and clean your hands with soap or a sanitizer with 60 percent alcohol.

There is no such thing as a foolproof flu protection plan, says Isaacson, but frequent hand-washing and conscientious cleaning practices at home, work, and in the community are precautions everyone can practice to help keep them and their loved ones healthy. For more flu statistics and tips on how to help prevent the spread of the flu virus, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/flu.

Biohazard Cleanup and Restoration

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Biohazards such as raw sewage, blood or dead animals can be hard to deal with considering they pose risks such as spreading infections. Some situations involving biohazards may also be stressful especially if a loved one was hurt or a crime involved. Technicians from SERVPRO of South Brevard are skilled in bio-recovery from crime and trauma scenes. We also invest in the necessary PPE, Personal Protective Equipment including respirators, splash goggles, rubber gloves and boots, so we remove the wastes fast without exposure to the dangerous elements.

We understand the need for thorough cleaning in any area affected by biohazards to remove traces of the material, prevent staining and remove any odors present. Our IICRC certified crewmembers help deliver the results you desire using different approaches. We use various professional cleaning agents to break down the biohazards material facilitating removal. We also have equipment such as power washers or surface scrubbers to remove the elements through mechanical action. We follow local waste disposal codes and observe EPA and OSHA protocols when disposing materials or water from a biohazard site.

Need Biohazard Cleanup Services?
Call Us Today – (321) 777-5131

The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience is key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances.

We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include the following:

• Sewage backups
• Crime scene residues
• Suicide/death accidents
• Homicide cleanups
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup
• Meth lab cleanup

Types of Damage Caused During a House Fire

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Fire and water damage in Sebastian, FL

Types of Damage Caused During a House Fire

A house fire can be devastating and cause a lot of damage to your home. Along with fire damage, there are other types of damage that will require remediation as well. Here are a few things that you can expect if you experience a fire in your  Sebastian, FL home.

1. Damage Caused by Fire

The most obvious and expected type of damage is that caused by fire. A fire can cause significant damage to your home and belongings. You may end up with shattered windows as well as missing walls and roofing. Furniture and objects may require repairs or replacing.

2. Damage Caused by Water

Water damage might not be something that you would usually think of during a fire, but depending on the severity of the blaze, you could end up with quite a bit of it. When firefighters use a fire hose to put out the flames, it can fill your home with a lot of water which can cause damage of its own. You can call a remediation service to remove the water from your home and perform any needed repairs.

3. Damage Caused by Smoke

Even if the fire damage to your home is not extensive, you might have a lot of smoke damage that needs cleaning. Smoke can permeate your house and belongings even if the fire only affected a small area. Some evidence of smoke damage includes discolored walls or ceilings and a strong odor. If not removed properly, the smell of smoke can remain in your home for a long time after the fire occurred. There might be ash or soot present as well.

Because there can be several different kinds of damage after a fire, it is important that you call an emergency restoration service as soon as you can. They can help repair the fire damage as well as any other damage your home has suffered.

Safeguarding Your Business From Storm Destruction

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent flood water from destroying your business in Indialantic,FL

How to Fortify Your Building

When a major storm event such as a hurricane is barreling towards your business, time is of the essence in preparing your commercial building. Flood water from heavy rains can cause tremendous damage to an unsecured structure and force you to close your doors for weeks or months while you undergo an extensive restoration process. Protect your business in Indialantic, FL, from the devastation of a storm by following a few simple guidelines to fortify your building.

1. Watch the weather. One of the most important steps in preventing a flooded building is also one of the simplest – pay attention to your local weather forecasts and take any severe weather or flash flooding alerts seriously. Use the advance warning to enact preventative measures like placing sandbags around the perimeter of your business and moving expensive electronic equipment to a higher level of the building.

2. Design an action plan. When a storm is about to hit, every staff member needs to have a specific role in preparing your business to withstand the destruction. Assign tasks to each team member so nobody gets overwhelmed. For example, one person should be in charge of fortifying the building to keep out flood water, another person should take care of backing up important electronic data, and someone else should supervise a final evacuation drill.

3. Prepare for restoration. Even a well-prepared business can sustain water damage if a storm is especially severe. That’s why it’s a good idea to have the contact information for a reputable commercial storm damage restoration company on hand in case you need professional assistance in the cleanup and repair process. Enlisting the help of an expert means you can reopen your doors faster than if you try to manage complex reconstruction yourself.

A storm heading towards your commercial building means you need to take immediate action in preventing flood water from destroying your livelihood. By staying calm and taking steps to safeguard your building, you can ensure your business will ultimately withstand the destruction of a severe weather event.

Protect Wood from Water Damage

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Most houses have wood integrated into their structures in some way or another. Often these wooden parts of the house are used for decks, doors, or garage doors. The problem with wood that is open to the elements is that water damage is always a possibility. Similar to issues with the foundation, if gutters are absent from the building or are defective so that water flows straight down rather than being directed away from the building, the result could be rotting, mold growth, or other problems associated with wood being affected by water.

Keep Outside of the House Clean

When rainwater flows off the roof, it brings with it the mud, sand, and other debris that may have collected on the roof. What fell from the sky as clean water is now dirty water that can leave a trail on the house. The result of this could be the staining of doors, windows, and siding which could negatively affect the look of the house and force you to clean the house more frequently. The primary purpose of gutters is to direct water away from the house so that the water doesn’t flow straight down where it can cause trouble.

By doing this, the water that would’ve caused these unsightly features will now be directed well away from the house leaving the home with a cleaner outside look.

Inspection and Assessment After a Fire

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

Suffering a fire in your home is one of the most traumatic occurrences for a homeowner.

Suffering a fire in your Melbourne Beach, FL home is one of the most traumatic occurrences for a homeowner. You can potentially lose not only your home, but also your treasured possessions. To ensure that as many of your possessions can be saved as possible, you need to immediately contact the professionals at SERVPRO to restore the home.

The first step in restoring any home that has suffered from fire damage will be an inspection and fire assessment. This assessment is done often by both the insurance company and restoration company. The inspection is done to determine how severe the damage is and whether or not it is safe to reenter the home. For the restoration company, it will determine what equipment and materials they will need to begin the restoration process. There are three steps that take place during the fire assessment process; an inspection of outdoor damage, an inspection of indoor damage, then the restoration of the home.

Inspecting Outside Damage

The first step taken during the fire assessment process is an inspection of the outside of the home. During this inspection, the professional inspectors will be looking for any missing roof shingles, melted objects, damaged chimneys, or any other damage that has occurred to the outside of the home. Depending on the severity of the fire, they may also take a look around any surrounding yards, take a closer look at the roof, and look at any other exterior surfaces that might have incurred damage during the fire. The purpose of this inspection is to see whether or not there is any damage from the outside that is in need of repair.

Inspecting Inside Damage

Once the inspector has surveyed outside for any exterior damage, they will move inside to see what damage has been incurred inside the home, likely where the fire occurred. During this part of the inspection, the inspector will walk through the building looking for any visible damage. The main areas that are inspected are the walls, roof, floors, ceilings, ducts, vents, bathtubs, windows, and sinks. Every room of the building must be inspected to make sure that all damage has been identified before the restoration process begins.

The main point of inspecting the inside of the house is to see what parts of the house are falling apart due to damage and what parts are still intact. During the inspection, the walls, foundation, and ceilings will be zeroed in on as these are the parts of the home that can require the most significant restoration. This is because these parts of the house are largely responsible for the structural stability of the building.

Restoring the Home

Once the fire assessment has finished, the SERVPRO team will know the extent of the damage and what materials and equipment they need to complete the restoration process. The quicker the restoration of the building starts, the more of your possessions and the more of the building will be able to be restored.

One of the issues regarding fire damage restoration is water damage. When water is used to put out the fire, this creates water damage around the house. If the water is not properly cleaned up by professionals, mold and mildew are just some of the problems that can arise. By immediately performing fire and water restoration, the professionals from SERVPRO will be able to salvage most of what could be lost if much more time is wasted. In the end, the goal of the process is to minimize the possibility of there being further damage.

When a fire occurs in your Palm Bay, FL home, it’s important to immediately call the professionals at SERVPRO to restore the building. With the damage caused by the fire and the water damage caused by the water that puts out the fire, time is of the essence to avoid even worse damage being caused. The first step in the fire restoration process is a fire assessment, where the team will examine the inside and outside of the home to see how much damage has been caused and what materials and equipment will be needed in order to fully restore the home. So if you suffer from a fire in your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO for a full restoration.

Safe Use of Candles in the Home

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

Place candles on a surface that's flat

Ways to Make Sure You're Using Candles Safely in Your Home

Every year in Palm Bay, FL, candle fire accidents damage homes and cause injuries. The necessary structural repairs often require professional fire restoration and smoke cleanup. These mishaps can be easily prevented by following a few common-sense tips. Here are some ways to make sure you’re using candles safely in your home.

1. Don't Leave Candles Unattended

Always be aware of where a candle is burning. Don't ever light a candle and leave the room without checking on it periodically. Watch how the air behaves around the candle; if the flame is shifting around, move the candle to a place where it stays steady.

2. Find a Safe Place

If you have pets or children, keep candles in a place that they can't reach. If placed on a low shelf or table, they can be knocked over easily and cause a candle fire. When not in use, candles, matches and lighters should be safely stored away in place that children can't get access to.

3. Secure the Candles

Place candles on a surface that's flat, sturdy and free of clutter. The surface should be heat-resistant as well. Keep the candle at least one foot away from any materials that might be flammable. If using candle holders, make sure to have a variety of sizes on hand. They should all have a secure base that can't be overturned easily.

4. Be Safe with Flames

Make sure your hair and any loose clothes are well out of the way when lighting candles. When it has burned down to about an inch, extinguish the candle and throw it away. It should never burn down so low that it's close to the candle holder.

Bedrooms are a no-go zone for candles. If you fall asleep and leave a candle burning unattended, there's a much higher risk of a fire. If there is an oxygen tank in use anywhere in the house, don't use candles at all.

It's easy to burn candles safely in your home. By following the tips outlined above, you can enjoy their light and warmth without having to worry about starting a candle fire.

4 Steps To Take After a Water Heater Leak

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage caused by a defective hot water heater leaking in Melbourne,FL

Cleanup Process: 4 Basic Steps

A leaking water heater can cause a lot of damage in a hurry. As soon as you notice that your failed water heater is leaking water into your home, you must call the plumber to fix it, but you also need to call water restoration specialists to clean up the mess it leaves behind. There are four basic steps to the cleanup process to ensure that no one is injured and that secondary damage does not occur.

1. Safety Precautions

Water and electricity don’t mix, so the first thing you need to do is to make sure that you either unplug all appliances in the affected area or elevate the ones you cannot unplug. To do this, make sure you are wearing the appropriate protective gear, such as rubber boots. Never enter standing water without protection.

2. Water Removal

A broken water heater in your home in Melbourne, FL, can expel a significant amount of water. Technicians will likely start by siphoning out the water before they can deal with the damage underneath.

3. Item Removal

Everything the leaking water heater affects must be removed from the area. Rugs, furniture, toys, clothing and other belongings must be taken out. The experts then determine whether the items can be salvaged or not.

4. Dehumidification

Even after the water is gone, the humidity levels in the room are likely higher than they should be. Technicians can use industrial dehumidifiers, fans and other methods to bring the moisture in the air down to an acceptable level so that mold doesn’t start to grow.

If a leaking water heater in your home causes more than a tiny spill, your best bet for getting the damaged repaired is a team of certified restoration experts. They can assess the problem and implement the appropriate solutions so that your home can return to normal as soon as possible.

How to Keep Your Business Safe During a Storm

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning rods protect your building by safely redirecting the electricity

How to Keep Your Business Safe During a Storm

While a rain storm is generally harmless, it can sometimes turn into an emergency if it becomes more severe. If this happens, it is important to keep both your Melbourne Beach, FL, business and your employees safe. The following tips can help you do this.

1. Maintain Lightning Rods

It is important to regularly maintain and inspect any lightning rods that your building has. Because they help to protect your building from lightning by safely redirecting the electricity, they need to be in good condition and working properly.

2. Avoid Using Desktop Computers

During a thunderstorm, it is best not to use desktop computers or other electronics that need to be plugged in. They can be damaged if they are in use during a power surge, and this can also be a hazard to your safety. If you do need to use these items for work, use wireless alternatives such as laptops or tablets instead.

3. Stay Away From Windows

If there are high winds during a storm, these can pick up lighter items and debris near the building. It is possible that the wind will carry them toward the building and they may end up cracking or shattering a window. For this reason, you should have employees work away from these areas.

4. Trim Trees Close to the Building

Like debris, tree limbs that are close to the windows can damage your building during a rain storm with heavy winds. To prevent this from becoming a problem, you should keep them trimmed and remove any loose limbs.
Even if you think it will pass quietly, you should make sure that your business is prepared for an emergency during a rain storm. Make sure that you and your employees are all clear on what is expected during this situation and how you should respond during severe weather. If the building is damaged during the storm, a cleanup and restoration service will be able to perform repairs to return it to its previous condition.

3 Steps for Responding to a Broken Water Heater

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

A broken water heater in Sebastian, FL

A leaking water heater may be one of the most inconvenient causes of water damage in your Sebastian, FL, home. After all, you use hot water from the moment you wake up until you wash the final dinner dish at night. A failed or broken water heater can disrupt your entire schedule, even without the resulting flooding.

Gallons of Water

Unfortunately, a broken water heater generally does lead to flooding. When those gallons of water rush into your home, whether it's in a basement or the main level of the home, there's going to be a bit of damage:

• Waterlogged belongings
  
• Weakened building materials
  
• Mold growth
  
• Unpleasant odors
  
• Spotting and stains
  
• Early deterioration of materials
  
  
  

The good news is that there are steps you can take to minimize these damages.

One: Act Quickly

It doesn't take long for the water from the leaking water heater to spread and soak into the surrounding area. The sooner you can shut off the water, stop the flooding, and dry out the room, the better. When the water is gone, you can recognize potential hazards and obstacles to recovering.

Two: Contact Professionals

Some types of water damage are covered by home insurance policies and others aren't. It's best to talk to your insurance agent to know whether the damages to your home will be covered by your policy. You should also contact a professional water remediation agency to remove large amounts of water or contaminated water, determine the extent of the damage, provide thorough drying services, prevent mold growth, and sanitize the area.

Three: Repair and Reconstruct

A failed water heater sends many gallons of water into the surrounding area in a short space of time. Sadly, it takes much longer to remove the water, so it isn't unusual for homeowners to face reconstruction steps. Carpeting, drywall, window treatments, and even the surrounding plumbing and electrical work may need to be replaced.

How To Use a Fire Extinguisher in a Home Fire

10/12/2019 (Permalink)

If the fire becomes too big, be sure to evacuate your home and call 911

How To Use a Fire Extinguisher in a Home Fire

Fires are a real risk for your home in Palm Bay, FL. Knowing how to use an extinguisher to put out small fires, such as a kitchen fire, can ultimately save lives and protect your property. There’s no need to be intimidated by using an extinguisher. You can put out a fire with an extinguisher in four steps, easily remembered by the helpful anagram P.A.S.S.

P.A.S.S. the Fire Extinguisher

Pull the pin from the extinguisher. In order to prevent any mishaps where someone mistakenly discharges the extinguisher, a handle release must be pulled.
Aim the extinguisher. Point the nozzle towards the fire. To be most effective, it is best to aim right at the core of the blaze.
Squeeze the handle of the extinguisher. This will propel the fire quenching chemicals towards the blaze.
Spray the fire extinguisher in a sweeping motion, moving from one end of the fire to the other for maximum coverage.

Assess the Fire

It is important to quickly gauge the fire. If the fire has become too big and seems uncontrollable, be sure to evacuate your home and call 911 immediately. Do not put yourself in harm's way and risk the safety of others by attempting to put out a large fire. Leave it to your local fire department to address the situation.

Repair Fire Damage

Even the smallest of fires can inflict damage to your property that may require repairs or replacements. In the case of particularly harsh fires, you may want to get in touch with a professional fire remediation company to walk you through the process of restoring your house.
A home fire can inflict a lot of stress on the homeowner. Being prepared by having a fire extinguisher easily accessible can alleviate some of that anxiety. For the rest, you can rely on professionals to guide you through putting out the fire and restoring the damage.

3 Valuable Items You Can Save From Mold

9/22/2019 (Permalink)

Humidity can ruin pictures and art

3 Valuable Items You Can Save From Mold

Mold does not discriminate regarding where it grows and the damage it leaves to your valuables. Even if you avoid water exposure or natural disasters in Port Malabar, FL, there is still a chance mold can grow from the combination of spores and humidity. While it can devastate many of your prized items, mold cleaning can save some of them depending on the materials and the level of damaged inflicted on them.

Cloth Items

Several useful items around your house are made from cloth. Fortunately, many of them are salvageable.

• Clothes (especially made from fabric)
  
• Bed items (pillows, mattresses, blankets, etc.)
  
• Stuffed animals
  
• Curtains
  
• Other decorations
  
  

You may be able to clean and restore them if the mold is only surface-deep and mold damage has not compromised them. Damaged cloth cannot be fixed. The items also have different mold cleanup procedures depending on the material.

Paintings

Whether you are a dedicated artist, or you simply collect and display art, it can be heartbreaking to see mold on your paintings. However, you do not have to throw them away yet, as mold cleaning is possible, if somewhat difficult. Paper is a porous, delicate material that can tear easily, and paint can react differently to mold and repair attempts. A mold repair specialist can distinguish between acrylic, watercolor and oil paints, then use the appropriate tools and techniques to bring the paintings back to their previous state.

Appliances and Electronics

As technology continues to make life convenient, electronic appliances, gadgets and other items remain an important part of the household. While you may think their exposure to mold makes them worthless, items spared from water or moisture can still be cleaned. You must make sure that mold has not touched and damaged their inner components. A mold remediation service specialized in electronics can assist you with this task.
Mold may strike your possessions through unexpected incidents or chemical reactions. Thankfully, the right mold cleaning service can bring new life to them.

How To Handle Water in Light Fixtures

8/22/2019 (Permalink)

Water in light fixture in an Eau Gallie, FL home

How To Handle Water in Light Fixtures

Often, Eau Gallie, FL, homeowners do not notice a leak until there is already ceiling damage. The first sign of a leak will manifest through the ceiling. You may even see water in the light fixture. If you see this, it’s important that you follow these steps and do not let the water out.

1. Act Quickly

As soon as you see the water in your light, you need to take action. Water serves as a conductor and carries the current wherever the water touches. This means that if a person touches the light socket or attempts to drain it, he or she likely to suffer from an electric shock. It is important that you go straight to the circuit breaker to turn it off.

2. Turn Off the Electricity

Even touching the switch itself can shock you. Do not turn off the light near the fixture. Go to dry electrical source and check the power to make sure that you turned everything off. This will help keep you or anyone else in your family from suffering an accidental shock.

3. Turn Off the Water

Next, turn off the water. This step only works if you know where the source of the water is coming from. If it comes from a pipe, then you can turn off the water supply through the main shutoff valve.

4. Call a Plumber and Electrician

If you have a problem with the pipes, then you need to call for a plumber. The plumber can fix any issues you’re having with the water lines in your home. Next, you need to call an electrician. The electrician will handle the electrical work. Never handle electrical work yourself.

When it comes to water in the light fixtures, you need to act quickly. Often, you’ve already experienced ceiling damage once it’s gotten to this point. Unfortunately, with most ceiling leaks, you will not know that you have a leak until you see the damage. Taking care of the plumbing and electrical work first is important, and then you can call a water damage repair service to take care of water damage.

Landlords and Renters: Flood and Water Damage Responsibilities

8/15/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Melbourne Village, FL residence

When flooding affects apartments and other rented properties, both the landlord and the tenant are affected. Unfortunately, water damage happens quickly and worsens are time passes, so there's no time to figure out who is responsible for what. As a property owner with renters, you must understand what you're responsible for (such as damages you caused) and help your renters understand where their responsibilities lie (such as purchasing renter's insurance.)

Landlord Responsibilities

In many areas of the country, landlords are not responsible to insure their tenants. Instead, tenants should have their own insurance policies. However, if property owners have been negligent in maintaining their property and flooding is the result, property owners are generally liable for the damage. Other responsibilities include

• Hiring flood damage and repair professionals to correct and/or replace plumbing, wiring, appliances, and structural damages
  
• Repairing rental units until they are habitable again within a reasonable time (i.e. as quickly as possible)
  
• Reporting claims to their insurance coverage provider
  
• Tracking expenses related to the flooding to submit to the insurance provider
  
  
  

As landlords work to fulfill their duties, renters must also work to complete specific tasks on their end.

Renter Responsibilities

Renter's insurance is necessary if renters or tenants hope to be reimbursed for furnishings and other personal belongings. For the best outcome, property owners should advise their renters to purchase the insurance coverage. Many providers require a 30-day waiting period, so renters should act quickly. Other responsibilities include

• Complying with safety regulations
  
• Seeking their own temporary living location
  
• Contacting their insurance provider with reports of the damage
  
• Notifying landlords if they choose to cancel the lease and move
  
• Staying in communication with landlords
  
  
  

If flooding causes significant inconvenience but doesn't force tenants to leave the housing, they may request rent adjustment during the flood cleanup period.

Renters in Melbourne Village, FL, share concerns with property owners when their apartment or rented living space suffers flood damages. It's best that both parties understand their area of responsibility and work together to recover.

Dealing With Mold In Your Apartment: Here's What You Need To Know

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage in an Indian Harbor Beach, FL apartment

Steps To Take When You Discover Mold In Your Apartment

Your landlord has a duty to provide you with a clean and habitable place to live. While mold is not necessarily dangerous, it is unnerving to look at and, for some people, it can aggravate allergy symptoms. Then there is the fact that mold can wreak havoc on a building's structure and personal belongings. For all these reasons and more, if you discover mold in your apartment, you should contact your landlord, who should then call in an Indian Harbor Beach, FL, mold cleanup crew. Below are the steps you should take upon discovering mold contamination in your apartment:

• Contact your landlord.
  
• Take pictures of the infestation and send them to your landlord.
  
• Make sure you're home when the mold remediation specialist arrives.
  
• Make sure your landlord has an air quality test performed to ensure mold spores aren't in other areas of the unit or home.
  
  

Once the tests are complete, the mold remediation specialist will begin the mold remediation process.

What To Do If Your Landlord Won't Cooperate

Unfortunately, some landlords are not as cooperative as they should be. If your landlord ignores the issue or flat-out refuses to help with the mold cleanup process, there is a specific way you should handle the situation.
First, contact an attorney. An attorney can advise you on how to proceed as well as inform you of your legal rights. After you contact an attorney, make copies of everything. This includes written notices, photos and receipts of costs you incurred trying to resolve the issue on your own.
Next, schedule an indoor air-quality test. You will need these results to prove that the conditions in your home are a threat to your health.
Finally, file a lawsuit. If you win, you may receive a reduction in rent, one month's free rent, a civil penalty of $500 and actual damages. If you hired an attorney, your landlord will also have to pay for the attorney fees.
If there is mold in your rental unit, your landlord is responsible for mold cleanup. He or she should contact a professional mold remediation company.

What To Do After a Home Fire

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

After a fire you should create an inventory of damaged items for your insurance company

What to Do After a Fire

The thought of a fire in your Indialantic, FL, home is a scary prospect, and the fire restoration process afterward can seem overwhelming. However, knowing beforehand what you will need to do after a fire can give you peace of mind and help minimize damage if you are ever the victim of a fire.

1. Before a Fire

Before a fire, it is important to make sure you have adequate fire insurance coverage. You can do this by creating a home inventory. This is basically a list of all your possessions and how much they are worth, so you know how much insurance coverage you need. Including receipts and photographs in your inventory will streamline the claim-filing process later.

2. Make Sure Everyone Is Safe

After a fire, your first priority will be to make sure you, your family and pets are safe. Do not re-enter your home until the fire department has said it is OK to do so. Keep children and pets away from fire damage.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

You will want to notify your insurance company immediately, so they can get to your claim as soon as possible. Generally, an insurance adjuster will be dispatched to your property fairly quickly.

4. Document the Damage

Before beginning the fire restoration process, be sure to document all the damage. You can take either photographs or video, but make sure you capture enough detail for the insurance company to determine the extent of the damage.

5. Prevent Further Damage

It is important to understand that damage can occur even after the fire has been extinguished. You may need to board up parts of your home to keep it secure. Additionally, smoke can be corrosive, so it is important to begin smoke cleaning as soon as possible.
A home fire is a frightening experience, but it is possible to rebuild your life afterword. Hiring experienced professionals to help with fire restoration can help make the process even easier.

3 Flood Response Tips for First Responders

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Avoiding walking or driving through quick-moving water

How to Keep Yourself Safe When Responding to a Flood

As a first responder, there are many types of disasters that you will need to respond to in Melbourne Village, FL, including storms and flooding. However, to help others, it's important to protect yourself as well. There are several ways you can keep yourself safe when responding to a flood.

1. Ensure You Have the Correct Immunizations

When a flood occurs in your area, emergency responders are often the first to help people in need. Responding to a flood or another type of disaster, however, can put you at risk for several conditions, especially if you are interacting directly with patients. The CDC requires that all emergency responders receive vaccinations to protect against tetanus and hepatitis B, but there are additional vaccinations that can also be beneficial to receive.

2. Use Appropriate Equipment and Tools

Wearing and using the proper equipment and tools can help to prevent injuries and can make your job as a first responder significantly easier and safer. Wearing protective clothing can help to limit your exposure to potentially harmful materials in and around water. In environments that may contain unsafe chemicals or bacteria, wearing a respirator and goggles can also help to protect you.

3. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Assisting others after a flood has occurred is an important job that can come with various hazards. When there is standing water in a residential area and emergency restoration services have not assessed the area, it's often useful to be cautious of electrical hazards. Avoiding walking or driving through quick-moving water unless you are equipped with the appropriate equipment is also wise. Additionally, it can be useful to avoid exposure to contaminated water if possible.

In order to have an effective flood response as a first responder, it's helpful to focus on your safety. Having the right vaccinations, using appropriate equipment and tools and being aware of potential hazards around you can help you to perform at your best.

5 Essential Burn First Aid Tips

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

Bandage the wound

5 Essential Burn First Aid Tips

When you think of fire damage, charred property and soot buildup requiring professional cleanup and restoration may be the first images that come to mind. Intense heat and flames can, however, also singe clothing and flesh. Employees that work with flammable liquids and other ordinary combustibles may be particularly vulnerable to burns. Regardless of the nature of your West Melbourne, FL, business, burn first aid is valuable knowledge that can be extremely useful, especially in emergency situations.

1. Recognize When To Call 911

Burns can range from minor to serious. If the skin appears charred or dry and leathery, call 911 for emergency assistance. You should also seek immediate medical care if the wound is larger than three inches in diameter or affects a major joint, your feet, hands, face, buttocks or groin.

2. Cool the Burn

You can treat smaller burns that present with superficial redness by applying simple first aid techniques. Begin by applying a cold compress or running cool water over the affected area. Because excessively cold fluid can cause further irritation and damage, refrain from using ice packs or cold water.

3. Remove Jewelry

Topical fire damage may cause swelling. Because of this, remove rings and other jewelry from the affected site.

4. Apply Ointment

To soothe and protect damaged skin, apply a petroleum-based ointment. Aloe vera may also be effective. Avoid using lotions, oils, creams and butter, which may contain irritating ingredients or cause an infection.

5. Bandage the Wound

To further protect the area, loosely wrap the wound in sterile gauze. Refrain from using cotton dressings that may stick to the skin’s surface.
As you bandage the wound, take caution around any existing blisters. Although they may appear unsightly, blisters can protect the site from infection and should never be intentionally popped.
Burns are a form of fire damage that require prompt attention. First aid can help everyone recognize the severity of the wound and administer the most appropriate care.

Pump Maintenance and Usage

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

You can check if your sump pump is free of obstructions by pouring a few gallons into the basin

Maintenance and Testing Tips to Keep Your Pump in Working Order

The risk of a basement or crawlspace flood in Indialantic, FL, is high enough that many homeowners choose to equip their homes with pumping equipment to remove any excess water. Review the following maintenance and testing tips to keep your pump in working order.

1. Routine Testing

While the typical sump pump doesn’t need an excessive amount of care or attention, a checkup here and there can prevent the need for professional flooding cleanup later on. Every few months, ensure that the pump has adequate power and can turn on and off. Take a small amount of water and pour it in the basin near the pump to check that the floating bob and level can rise and fall properly to activate the pumping mechanism.

2. Kinds of Blockage

Even functional pumping equipment will fail to remove water from your basement if the water cannot reach the intake. Check the pump’s inlet screen and remove any accumulated dust, silt, or other debris. If the screen has holes or indentations, find a replacement. Foreign material in the pump mechanism can dramatically shorten its lifespan. Also check the outlet pipe to the yard for clogs and damage, as this can also prevent the pump from moving water. Any cracked or rusted pipes or connections should be replaced, preferably with a silicone-based sealant around the joints.

3. Other Considerations

Many pumps may need additional lubrication around the bearings. If you notice the pump working at reduced efficiency or hear an unfamiliar noise, it may be time to purchase the appropriate grease or oil for your machine. A trash pump is a specialty pump that can remove water mixed with solid debris. Renting one of these from a local dealer may be necessary if your sump pump fails and water floods your crawlspace.

Maintaining your equipment is the first line of defense against home flooding. By scheduling a few simple pump checks, you can prevent costly damage in the long run.

Advantages of Hiring a Hygienist to Check for Mold

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Mold detector

It’s not uncommon to find mold in your house. Factors such as humidity, flooding, leaky pipes and condensation can lead to mold growth. Once you identify this issue, it’s essential to start the mold cleaning process as soon as possible. However, it’s not always easy to find mold. This is why you should hire a hygienist to inspect your Palm Bay, FL, home for this concern.

What Does a Hygienist Offer?

You may think that uncovering mold and finding mold damage is simple and that anyone could do it. While there are cases where you can easily identify mold, it’s best to hire a hygienist if you want an accurate result.

• Hygienists have experience.
  
• Hygienists use proven techniques.
  
• Hygienists have the skills and credentials.
  
  

Experience Maters

For something as serious as mold remediation, you don’t want to trust the issue to a novice. There’s too much at stake for yourself, your home and your family. A proven expert is your key to accurately finding whether there’s mold in your house and where it may be hiding. A hygienist have successfully searched for and found mold in homes and building numerous times. No matter what challenges your situation presents, the hygienist will have experience overcoming them.

The Best Equipment

Mold damage can be severe, so it’s important to spot it early on. A hygienist does employ guesswork or use a hunch to uncover mold in your house. This expert use industry-leading techniques to accurately find where this unwanted guest is hiding.

Certified and Trustworthy

When an expert has gone through the proper training for certification, don’t you trust his or her work a little more? If you want to begin mold cleaning in a timely manner, you need to know for sure this fungus is growing in your home. Certified hygienists will assure you that the findings are accurate and that you’re working with a person you can feel good about.

Mold cleaning and remediation is an important step to eliminating mold from your home. You can have peace of mind when a hygienist checks your place for this substance.

3 Things To Know About Natural Gas and Your Home

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Your fire department in Palm Bay,FL can locate and turn off the gas source

A gas fire can be a scary thing in Palm Bay, FL. Between the destructive nature of a fire and the potential for a gas explosion, many homeowners worry about what to do when they smell gas. The following information may help.

Know What To Do If You Smell Gas

In the event you smell natural gas there are several safety steps you can follow:

• Check your stove and ensure all burners are completely off
• Open your doors and windows to ventilate your home
• Use a flashlight to see
• Keep all your electrical appliances off
• Get out of your home and call the fire department
• If safe to do so, turn off your gas meter

Know Where Your Meter is Located

One way to help prevent a gas fire or explosion is to turn off the gas flow to your home. Gas meters are typically located outside the home. This allows the gas to be safely turned off when needed. In most cases, a wrench is all that is necessary for proper closure. Knowing where your meter is and how it works can allow you to turn your gas off yourself in a non-emergency situation, so the source of the gas smell can be safely investigated.

Know Who To Call in an Emergency

In the event your home does have a fire from gas, or even if you just smell gas and can’t locate the source, it’s best to get everyone out and call 911. Your local fire department can often locate and turn off the gas source, or put the fire out safely, hopefully before an explosion occurs. Once the fire is out, you can call a fire damage professional for any cleanup and repair needs.

Knowing what to do if you smell gas can help you prevent a gas fire from happening in your home. Remember to follow the above safety steps and call your Palm Bay, FL, fire department for help.

3 Tips To Quicken the Water Damage Restoration Process

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage from flooding in a Melbourne,FL home

If you have experienced water damage in your home in Melbourne, FL, you know that the restoration process can seem overwhelming. A pipe burst, or a damaged water line, can quickly lead to your home being flooded. Here are some important steps to keep in mind as you begin the restoration process.

1. Take Precautions

It isn’t always possible to know when you’ll have a burst pipe or a toilet overflow, so taking precautions before water damage occurs can help you protect valuable items in your home. Keep important documents, including birth certificates, contact information and insurance material in water-proof containers.

2. Avoid Hazards

As you start the restoration process, it’s essential to prioritize your safety and the safety of those around you. Depending on the source of the water, there may be pipe burst debris from outside your home that makes cleaning up the water unsafe. Make sure to wear appropriate attire when you enter your home to clean, such as water-resistant shoes and gloves. If you are unsure whether or not your home is safe to be in, it’s probably best not to enter.

3. Act Quickly

As long as it is safe to be in your home, it is important to start the restoration process quickly to prevent excessive damage. Once flooding has occurred, water that sits stagnantly in your home can grow mold and bacteria over time, which can ultimately require more time and money to clean. The sooner you begin to air out your home and remove water, the less damage your house may sustain.

Whether it’s caused by a pipe burst or a flood, water damage can be a common occurrence in many homes. Although there are several ways in which you can make the restoration process move quickly after you’ve experienced water damage, consider contacting professionals in water damage cleanup to ensure your home is as clean and as safe as possible.

When A Home Suffers From Water Damage

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Brevard homes are in good hands when they call SERVPRO of South Brevard.

Water damage and fire are a homeowner’s worst nightmares. Water damage comes from many sources, and it causes just as much trouble for families as it does for the structure. Dealing with the shock is a little more involved than dealing with the damage. A restoration service can always repair the structure, but who’s going to repair the family? The security that comes from prevention along with flood insurance will give the homeowner less to worry about. These are considerations when a house suffers from water damage.

Consequences

The results of water gushing into the house can affect the family and any pets as well as the structure. Micro-organisms in the water can cause infections when family members come into contact with affected things like carpet or wet furniture. Mold and mildew are responsible for respiratory ailments, nervous system problems like migraine headaches and memory loss. The liver, kidneys and lungs are also seriously affected by mold and mildew. If these things can affect humans so adversely, think what it can do to your pets. They keep their noses to the floor most of the time, where sniffing mold and mildew can cause them to bark, sneeze, itch and get headaches and respiratory problems. The vet might dismiss this as allergies if you don’t tell him about the water damage.

Conclusions

You never know when an emergency will happen causing your home to be inundated. However, checking the walls, baseboards and mouldng for buckling will give alert you to a problem. Get flood insurance. Most homeowners’ policies cover broken appliances and burst pipes in winter. There are several reputable water damage restoration companies in business, one of which will be near you. When you find water damage, remove anything affected including carpet, drywall, insulation and anything in boxes. Put affected belongings in a neutral area to dry, and contact a professional. Check in with the doctor to make sure your family is not adversely affected.

SERVPRO of West Brevard is a 24/7 emergency water removal & flood clean up repair service company, Our technicians are highly trained and experienced with every water damage situation.

Call SERVPRO of West Brevard if you need help with any of our services. Please allow us to be of assistance, give us a call at (386) 447-2202.

Sources of Storm Damage and Their Effects

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

A hurricane or a massive storm isn’t the only cause of destructive moisture in a house. The washing machine, dishwasher or shower could leak. The destruction from these would be less visible than a flooded basement from a nearby river overflowing. Frozen pipes in the winter are a common occurrence, causing burst pipes and water everywhere. Vicious rainstorms have been known to make even the best-built roofs to leak. Window air conditioner units are another common cause of destructive moisture in a home. Some backyard swimming pools could rupture and flood the basement.

Effects of Storm Damage

Some of these causes of water damage are hidden inside the walls and floors of a house. Water stains on the ceiling would give the homeowner a clue that something is wrong. Another way to detect damage is by checking the walls for warped drywall, buckling baseboards and separating moulding. Carpet with wet spots and buckling hardwood floors are another dead giveaway that there is too much moisture inside the house. If a sewer backup is the cause of damage to the house, there will be dangerous organisms loose in the structure in addition to the mold and mildew that comes with water damage.

4 Ways Gutters Keep You Avoiding Water Damage

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Clean your gutters regularly to keep your home damage free during a storm.

Sometimes gutters can seem like a bit of a nuisance. Oftentimes, leaves and other debris can collect in the gutters forcing the homeowner to climb a ladder and dig out the clogged gutter. But gutters play an important role for a home. They keep your roof in good condition, protect the home’s foundation, protect any wooden areas of the home, and help to keep the home clean. Here are some of the ways that gutters protect your home. 

Keeping Your Gutters in Good Condition

When homeowners suffer leaks inside their home, the cause is often due to issues with the roof. These issues are often the result of either drainage problems from the roof or issues with the shingles. One of the primary purposes of shingles is to protect your home from the elements. Any issues with those shingles could allow water to get underneath the roof and into the home causing costly water damage. If you have clogged, damaged, or missing gutters, the water that falls on the roof will not be directed away from the home resulting in standing water collecting on any flat or low areas of the roof. Subsequently, this can lead to shingle damage which will allow water to seep through the roof and into the home potentially causing significant water damage. The way to avoid this problem is to keep your gutters in good condition. Regularly clean any leaves or other debris out of the gutters as the weight of the debris and collected water could cause damage. Also, make sure that the gutters are not pulling away from the home.

Protect the Foundation

Damage to a building’s foundation is one of the most costly and serious problems a homeowner can face. That’s assuming the damage caused is repairable in the first place. The main way a building’s foundation can be damaged is by water collecting at the base of the home. When the gutters of a building are not properly directing water safely away, the rainwater that falls on the roof flows right off the roof and collects at the base of the building where it can cause problems to the foundation. Over time, this can cause cracking and sinking to the point where the structural integrity of the building is put into question.

The purpose of gutters on a home is to collect the water that runs off the roof and direct it away from the building. This will help to avoid any trouble with the foundation or any wooden parts of the home. It also has the effect of keeping the outside of the home clean. Making sure that your gutters are in good working order will help keep your home from suffering from potentially severe water damage. If you do experience water damage, call on the professionals at SERVPRO to restore your home.

Fire Damage Melbourne - How Much Does Fire Damage Restoration Cost?

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration cost vary, but there are steps to take to minimize the damage.

Home fires can cause a massive amount of property damage that cannot be easily restored due to soot, smoke and other contaminants and factors. Water damages caused by efforts to extinguish residential fires will also have a significant impact on the amount of money that must be paid for the successful restoration of your home. It is important to note, however, that these costs can often be reduced if homeowners take fast action to secure remediation services as soon as fires have been put out and properties have been cleared for entry.

The Average Cost Of Having Fire Damage Repaired

* If working with a fire damage restoration service in Melbourne is necessary, these repairs can range between $2,000 and $50,000 depending upon the magnitude of the damages in your home.

* Fire damage costs can vary quite a bit according to the value of damaged goods and the size of the fire among other factors. As per the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, fire damage repairs can cost in excess of $40,000 when homes lack sprinklers as compared to just $2,500 for homes that have sprinklers in place.

Low-End Fire Restoration Estimates:

* Repair costs of $2,000 or lower

High-End Fire Restoration Estimates:

* Repair costs of $50,000 or higher

What You Can Expect When Using Fire Damage Restoration Companies:

* If you have a fire or home insurance plan in place, let your insurance investigator review the scene and take pictures of all damages before you attempt to move any items or clean up.

* When possible, ventilate areas where water was used to extinguish fire as this will allow damp or saturated surfaces and items to start drying out even before the remediation service has arrived.

* Don't try to clean carpets or any other items without professional assistance. You will not be able to clean these things thoroughly and you could wind up causing more harm than good in your self-directed efforts.

* Look for reputable fire and water damage restoration companies in your area.

Extra Services?

* If the fire has been extinguished with water, dry rot and mold can appear quickly if damp or wet areas are left unchecked. This will likely require additional services and costs for mold remediation and dry rot repairs.

* Soot, smoke and ash can create a number of difficulties. The smell of smoke can permeate your flooring, walls and various items throughout the home and will prove difficult to remove. Soot and ash can also adhere to surfaces throughout the home and the chemical byproducts and acids that are found in these burned materials could create additional property damages.

SERVPRO of South Brevard is fully certified water removal staff can perform a complete damage assessment to your home of office, and then recommend and follow the industries standards to get your water removal restoration repaired properly available 24 hours a day.

Residents forced out of Tampa Luxury Condo Tower after Sprinkler Flood

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

The Stovall Tower damaged by a broken sprinkler system.

Tampa – Renovation of an 11th floor condo in the luxurious Stovall Tower accidentally created a disastrous flood that forced evacuation of the entire 33-unit complex. Since the accident the Stovall's residents remain stranded in hotels, or with friends and family, while electricity to the entire complex remains turned off. Recovery and restoration repair work is being performed by the disaster response firm SERVPRO of South Brevard. The condominium's residents are expected back in their homes before Christmas.

Firefighters responded to an automated alarm triggered by the flooding at Stovall Tower, located at 3203 Bayshore Boulevard. According to Jason Penney, Tampa Fire and Rescue Spokesman, water was already dripping from the ceiling into the lobby as firefighters first entered the Tower. “You can't turn off gravity,” he added. A Fire and Rescue Captain involved in the emergency response added that parts of the Tower looked like Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean theme park ride, with water cascading down stairs and pouring through ceilings from floor to floor. Reportedly, when firefighters entered the apartment where the flood started standing water was already inches deep.

The water originated on the 11th floor of the 22-story condominium Tower that overlooks picturesque Hillsborough Bay that lies along Bayshore Boulevard. Reportedly a dry wall worker accidentally broke a sprinkler system water feed pipe resulting in thousands of gallons of water pouring into the Stovall's living units and common spaces. Responding firefighters turned off the water supply to the sprinklers ending the active phase of the emergency. No injuries were reported.

Gloria Giunta, President of the Stovall Condominium Association, stated that all residents were forced to move out of the complex because power remained turned off. Elevators also remain out of service and access is limited to the stairs. “We're all getting our exercise,” Giunta stated. At least 20 residential units were water damaged by the accident.

With two apartments per floor Giunta noted that the residents enjoyed a close-knit community. “This is the best condominium with the best neighbors,” which include former Tampa University President Dr. Bruce Sampson, and Tampa Sports Authority Chairman Don DeFosset.

Recovery and restoration is being handled by the nationwide disaster response firm SERVPRO based in Gallatin, Tennessee. Cleanup operations are being handled by two SERVPRO franchisees from Brevard County, Florida and Nashville, Tennessee. SERVPRO currently has some 1650 franchised operations throughout the United States.

Recovery operations began with vacuumed water removal, and continued using large numbers of heavy duty dehumidifiers and blowers to remove the remaining water from the Stovall. Resulting flood damage includes the building's electrical system, ruined dry wall and carpets, wood floors that have warped, as well as damage to residents' personal property. According to Giunta the accident's costs are being covered by a combination of contractor's and homeowners' insurance. She would not comment on possible legal action that may be taken against the contractor.

Why You Should Secure a Professional Smoke and Fire Damage Restoration Service for Melbourne

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Keep These Flames Away from Your House

Fire Damage Resulting in Smoke and Soot Can be Cleaned by SERVPRO of South Brevard.

Although there are many challenging factors that homeowners have to deal with in Melbourne following a major event, fire damage, and smoke removal are two of the most difficult. However, tackling the smoke damage removal process is critically important after the fire. In many cases, homeowners are inclined to reenter their home directly after the fire for the purpose of checking the fire damage. The attempt to start the cleanup process may feel like a pressing matter, but the best course of action is to call in SERVPRO to start the complicated restoration process. There are several reasons why doing so is important. Here are two:

Smoke Damage Restoration Requires Special Equipment

One of the reasons that you should leave smoke damage removal,the result of fire damage, to the professionals is that thoroughly completing the job necessitates the use of specific, industrial-grade equipment. Industry experts from SERVPRO know that smoke and soot can seep into your walls, carpeting, clothing and furniture infusing an odor and film that are extremely difficult to remove. Health issues are another matter that won't be discussed here. Masking a persistent odor problem is not a professional solution. The best methodology for eliminating these odors is thermal fogging using specific products for absorption and removal. These technicians from SERVPRO are IICRC trained. Therefore, the correct procedures are followed.

Smoke Damage Restoration Requires Industry Expertise

In addition to possessing the specialized equipment necessary to complete the smoke damage restoration process, these technicians have the experience necessary to expedite the project. It is necessary to understand what types of smoke and soot are present and which chemicals will be required to remove them. An example would be the presence of smoke odor coming from the wood. This specific type of smoke odor requires the use of cleaning products that differ from what one would use for smoke odor resulting from plastics. If you are unfamiliar with the kind of smoke odor and residue present, you can risk further damages to possessions by improper cleaning. Fortunately, smoke damage remediation professionals from SERVPRO possess the expertise necessary to complete this aspect of the restoration process quickly and correctly.

Fire damage to your Melbourne home can result in many ancillary effects. Although dealing with smoke damage removal can be frustrating and difficult, obtaining professional help from SERVPRO can simplify the process so that you witness the speedy recovery of your home to its pre-fire and smoke damage condition. We're pleased to be a team of trained technicians who use the most cutting edge equipment and customized methodologies to get the job done fast and save you money.

Locally Owned, with National Resources

SERVPRO of South Brevard is locally owned and operated so we are part of the Melbourne community too. When you have a water or flood emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help.

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. Call us for help. (321) 777-5131

4 Tips To Keep Your Bathroom Mold-Free

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage on bathroom in a Melbourne, FL home

Bathrooms are a breeding ground for mildew and mold. With moisture and heat constantly surging through your Melbourne, FL, bathroom, it can seem like an insurmountable task to keep it fresh and dry. Luckily, bathroom mildew is preventable.

Here are four tips to keep your humidity problem at bay.

1. Always run your bathroom fan while showering or bathing. Introducing more airflow into your bathroom with the use of your built-in bathroom fan is the easiest way to prevent mildew. Keep your fan running for the duration of your shower and for at least half an hour after for maximum results. With increased ventilation, the majority of moisture in your bathroom should dissipate quickly.

2. After you’re finished with your shower, remove moisture from your shower surround. It’s easy to get rid of a good portion of post-shower wetness with an inexpensive squeegee tool. One pass with your squeegee across your shower walls and your humidity problem will literally be heading down the drain.

3. Keep your bathroom caulking fresh. After years of being exposed to moisture, the caulk lines around your bathroom tile, tub surrounds and shower doors may not be as secure as they once were. It is important to always check your caulking for bathroom mildew and mold while you clean. To prevent them, try to use heavy-duty cleaning products on and around your caulk lines regularly, such as a bleach-based or ammonia-based cleanser.

4. Contact mold remediation at the first sign of mold. When you do find spots of mold that have spread to a larger area in your Melbourne, FL, home, don’t risk furthering the damage with DIY removal techniques. Call your local mold remediation and removal company to take care of it right the first time.

Definitely call in professionals if you find mold in your home. However, by following these simple steps to prevent bathroom mildew, your humidity problem can be a thing of the past.

Facing Flood Damage Without Flood Insurance? Know Your Options

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Damage roof by storm in Indian Harbor Beach, FL

For many homeowners, flood insurance can easily sound like a perk at best or anxious overkill at worst. That’s until a busted pipe, a rising water table or a flash flood happens. Now you’re looking at two feet of water in your basement and facing a mountain of expense with no way out. Or are you? It turns out Indian Harbor Beach, FL, homeowners without coverage still have options if they know where to look.

What is Flood Damage Insurance?

At its most basic, this is specialized insurance to cover damage to your home caused by excess water. Offered in all 50 states, this insurance is obtained through the federal government's NFIP flood insurance program with help from a local insurance agency. Like any insurance policy, flood coverage involves deductibles and covers specific items like:

• Appliances
• Carpeting and window treatments
• Foundation walls
• Cabinets
• Personal items

As with homeowner’s insurance, there are limits to what’s covered and deductibles before coverage is provided.

What Happens If You Don’t Have Flood Coverage?
If the unthinkable happens and you don’t have flood coverage, you’re likely to have to shoulder much of the expense. But there is some help available from federal government grants and low-cost loans. The Federal Emergency Management Agency offers grant money that can substitute for flood insurance. So does the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Best of all, you can apply for FEMA grants if your area is covered under a federal disaster. Also, you can likely get expedited approval and more immediate assistance if your home is uninhabitable.
After a flood, there’s everything from housing to flood remediation to worry about. For some, a lack of insurance is another strain. If you’re facing flood damage without insurance, try the above tips to get the help you need. And if disaster hasn’t struck, whether you live on a flood plane or not, consider investing in coverage in advance.

Cleaning the Office After a Fire Next Door

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Palm Bay, FL

The fire in the office next door has been put out, and everyone has left. You have the incident number in hand and remind yourself you need to get a report for the insurance company as soon as possible. As you look around at the smoke-filled room in Palm Bay, FL, you are probably wondering how long your business will be closed and how it will affect your employees. The last thing you want to think about is what got damaged, what needs dry-cleaning, and what is a total loss.

Here are some basic cleaning guidelines to help you get started in your cleaning efforts.

1. When you walk through ash, it reenters the air, so always wear a mask when in a soot or ash covered room.
2. Wear long sleeved shirts, extended gloves, and long pants to prevent ash from touching your skin.
3. Contact a professional fire cleaning service and request content cleaning help.
4. Take pictures as you work through the office – lots of pictures.
5. Open windows, but don’t use fans to remove the heavy smoke odor because the breeze will disturb the ash and soot.
6. Sort items into piles that can be cleaned with water, should be discarded, need dry-cleaning, and you simply don’t know.
7. Remove window coverings and pictures from the walls.
8. Keep employees out of the office to prevent moving the soot and ash around.
9. Do not turn on electronic equipment because the soot and ash are probably inside the devices.
10. Notify the cleaning service if the adjacent fire was a grease fire or chemical fire to allow for the necessary special cleaning steps.

When the cleaning professionals arrive, make sure to request an itemized list of their services to use for insurance purposes. If your office is large, ask about content storage until the items can be correctly cleaned. If items require dry-cleaning, ask about available professional cleaning services or freezer storage. Don’t forget that smoke and ash can soak into paper, wood, and paint, so your office may be closed for a few days.

The National Flood Insurance Program: Options and Coverage

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Thunderstorm damage on a garage in a Melbourne Beach, FL residence

Commercial property owners in Melbourne Beach, FL, can get both building property and personal property coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program offered under FEMA. These commercial insurance policies can protect you from the massive cost of repairing your business after a major storm.

Scope of the Coverage

The NFIP is designed to offer protection in the event that a single flooding incident occurs. Flood insurance typically pays for damages to property that are caused directly by the flood in question. Therefore, a flood policy would not cover:

• Water damage, such as a mold problem, that results from the neglect of the property owner to hire remediation services in a timely manner
• Losses that result from the interruption of business operations
• Sewer backups that were not caused by the flood
• Property located outside the building, such as landscaping, other structures or vehicles

Building Property vs. Personal Property

Your commercial insurance policies through the NFIP can either be building property coverage, personal property coverage or both. Building property insurance covers the actual structure of the building and the equipment or systems that are inherently a part of it. For example, repairs to the fire sprinkler system and the HVAC system are paid for by this policy. It also covers permanently installed or built-in features such as walk-in freezers. Personal property insurance covers the items in the building that are affected by flooding. Appliances, furniture, inventory, carpets, machines and equipment fall under this coverage. Valuable items, such as art, may also be covered to a certain extent, although it is advisable to have an additional policy to insure these items. Personal property insurance can also cover vehicles that don't require a license to operate as long as they are stored in the building.

When storm season in Palm Bay, FL, arrives, you may need both building property and personal property insurance for your business. These commercial insurance policies protect you from the daunting costs of rebuilding after a flood.

Restoring Your Flooded Basement

8/17/2018 (Permalink)

Extraction wand on a water damage in a Melbourne, FL home

Restoring your flooded basement in Melbourne, FL, is no easy task, and cleaning up after a basement flood can seem like a hassle. In actuality, with the right equipment and the proper know-how, it can really be quite simple. Plus, there are ample experienced specialists who are ready to help you repair damage and utilize any insurance coverage you may have. Here are a few suggestions to get you started.

Vacuum Up Small Amounts of Water

If you have a dry/wet vacuum at home, you may be able to deal with small problems quickly and easily. If the issue is just an inch or two of water in a manageable area, for example, then you can easily clean it up by using your trusty shop-vac.

Use a Pump for Bigger Issues

If a basement flood starts to rise even further, reaching your shins or even your knees, then you’ll need to bring in some more powerful options. A water pump is a surefire way to get rid of any flooded water and quickly get your basement on track towards what it was before.

You’ll need a submersible pump for jobs like this, something that is surrounded in a protective shell and is able to completely enter the water you’d like to remove. Tie down the pump to something sturdy, and move it once the water begins to shift. Depending on how much water you have to remove, this process likely won't take long at all.

Cleaning Up Once the Water’s Gone

Unfortunately, once you’ve gotten rid of the water, you’ll likely need to replace anything that absorbed it, such as carpets or drywall. A dehumidifier during this step of the process is helpful, but it’s likely you’ll need to remove the drywall entirely in order to combat the damage.

It may seem like the end of the world to find a basement flood in your home, but you won’t run into any trouble if you follow the simple steps above and begin to clean as soon as possible.

What is Black Mold?

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Since many types of mold can cause reactions, you should contact us regardless of the color or type of mold. Never try to remove mold yourself!

Black Mold is the name commonly used for stachybotrys chartarum. It is one of the most infamous mold because it can grow in any type of building and affect animals and individuals differently. Nevertheless, not all mold that appears black is the toxic black mold, stachybotrys chartarum.

Stachybotrys is known as a toxic mold because it produces toxins called mycotoxins. SERVPRO of South Brevard and our highly trained technicians can help eliminate your mold issues from your home or commercial building.  

What Does Black Mold Look Like 

Black mold is a greenish-black gelatinous mold. It usually appears slimy, because of a wet layer on the top. However, if the water source that helped produce the toxic black mold drys up, it can look powdery and dry-like.

Do I Have Black Mold?

There are quite of few types of molds that look similar to toxic black mold. The only way anyone can be certain stachybotrys chartarum is present is to have an environmental hygienist come and take air sample, which they will send to a lab. There, they will produce a mold report that will state the exact type of mold and the precise amount of mold spores present. 

If you visible see mold, but are unsure if it is truly mold, SERVPRO of South Brevard’s team come out and perform a FREE mold assessment.

About Our Mold Remediation Services in Brevard County, Florida

SERVPRO of South Brevard specializes in mold remediation, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained technicians are restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold issue quickly and safely. We service the residents of Melbourne Beach, Indianlantic, Satellite Beach, Melbourne, and Palm Bay. Contact our office staff if you think your home or office may have mold. Schedule a FREE Mold Assessment at 321-777-5131

What to Do if You See Mold: The Do's and Don't

1/22/2018 (Permalink)

Do you know what to do if you see mold anywhere in your house? Don't worry! Here is the list of what you should and shouldn't do.

Mold occurs when there is an excess amount of moisture or water present, and can grow on virtually anything. Therefore, the purpose of mold remediation is to correct the moisture problem and to rid the structure of moldy or contaminated materials. This will prevent human exposure to the mold and any further damage to the building materials or furnishings.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

1. Stay out of affected areas.
2. Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
3. Contact SERVPRO of South Brevard to schedule an evaluation for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

If you have mold in your Melbourne home, it’s important that you have the professionals at SERVPRO of South Brevard handle the cleanup or remediation. The process of cleaning up mold can be complicated and dangerous if you’re not trained to do the job properly.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of South Brevard specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our technicians are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely. We service the residents of Melbourne, Palm Bay, and all beachside towns, including Satellite, Indian Harbour, Indialantic, and Melbourne Beach. Don’t hesitate to contact our office staff to start getting your home back to the way it was, and our technicians and contractor will have your home look "Like it never even happened”. Call today at 321-777-5131

Holiday Ready? Safety is Key

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let your holidays go up in smoke! Be smart, be prepared, be safe.

Christmas trees aren't the only item you'll need to be careful with around the Holidays. Decorative house lights, candles, and holiday decorations bring joy and cheer to the holiday season but if not used with caution your holidays may go from festive to frightening. Fire Departments say every two out of five home fires are from holiday decorative candles. Reduce the fire risk in your home by simple following these tips. 

Holiday Safety Tips

• Make sure all outdoor light connectors are away from metal rain gutters and off the ground.

• Use only a single extension cord that can reach your home's outlet without being too long and being tangled.
• Make sure lights are off when you go out and before you turn in for the night.
• To lessen the chance of a fire hazard, purchase a freshly cut tree.
• Make sure to keep your tree at least three feet away from any heat source.
• Water the tree every day, and remove it from your home after Christmas or once it becomes dry. 
• Don't burn Christmas tree branches or wrapping paper in your fireplace.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that could burn. 

• Consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which can look, smell and feel like real candles.
• If you do use lit candles, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be knocked down easily.

Locally Owned, with National Resources

SERVPRO of South Brevard is locally owned and operated so we are part of the Melbourne Beach, Florida community too. When you have a fire, flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help.

As fire and water damage specialists, we have the experience, the expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property restored quickly and thoroughly.  Please call (321) 777-5131

3 Signs Mold May Be In Your House

10/20/2017 (Permalink)

How can you tell if there is mold in your home? Here are 3 signs to help you identify mold.

Florida can be known for the hurricanes that come through, and the humidity that is always so high. With that combination, it is a recipe for mold especially for homes in Melbourne Beach and Satellite Beach here in Brevard County. While we all want to think that will never happen to “MY HOME” the chances are that if you don’t know what signs you are looking for, how do you know if you have mold or not. Mold can be sneaky or even right under your nose and not know it. While hiding under carpet and behind drywall, you may never even see the mold, but here are some signs that can help you identify if mold is in your home.

Musty, Pungent Smell

Even if you cannot see the mold, doesn’t mean it is not there. If you notice this unpleasant smell when you enter a room, be sure to thoroughly check. You can even take an extra step and hire an industrial hygienist, who will perform several different mold tests that will ensure if you have mold or not.

Visible Dark Rings & Spots 

The appearance of dark rings or spots on drywall or sheetrock is early signs of mold lurking in your home.

Visible Growths & Odd Colors

Mold can come in a range of colors other than the most popular “black mold”. You may notice dark, furry growths that are orange, brown, green and even white.

5 Things Not To Do During a Hurricane

9/8/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are hard to completely be certain what path they will take. Even if the Florida weather meteorologists come close to predicting the path, the hurricane can quickly shift or turn at the drop of a dime. Because of the amount of uncertainty hurricanes bring, here are 5 things not do to when riding out a hurricane.

1. Don’t tape windows

It does almost no good, and it is an absolute mess to try and take off.

2. Don’t run generators indoors

The carbon monoxide the generator’s emits can become deadly within minutes. Also you shouldn’t connect a generator into your home’s electric system directly, because it can affect electric lines outside and endanger your neighbors, emergency responders, and /or utility workers.

3. Don’t use charcoal or gas grills indoors

The carbon monoxide and fire risks are too great. The grill’s carbon monoxide can easily build up and poison anyone inside the house, including your pets.

4. Don’t walk or drive in flood waters

The waters can contain snakes, alligators, downed power lines and sewage, which can all be dangerous and deadly. If you drive a vehicle in flood waters that are six inches or more, the waters can cause a car to float.

5. Don’t stay after an evacuation order is given

Rescuers might not come out in the height of the storm, but if they do you are putting your life and their lives in danger. Your life is not worth the same amount as your home or anything in it. A home can be replaced; your life can not.

3 Reason Why You Should Never Use Bleach to Clean Mold

8/24/2017 (Permalink)

Chlorine Bleach is often regarded as the answer for stopping mold growth and removing the mold. However, this is a myth. Bleach does not exonerate mold. Here are three reasons why bleach is not the answer to mold, and should never be used to clean a mold contaminated area.

1. Bleach Loses Effectiveness Over Time

Chlorine bleach can dissipate rapidly, causing the bleach to be less effective. Over time this occurs because chlorine can evaporate and even faster in areas that are above room temperature. When the chlorine disappears, the bleach bottle turns into a bottle of salt water.  

2. Bleach can actually contribute to mold growth

Chlorine bleach was made to clean surfaces, therefore can only kill surface bacteria and mold. This is due to bleach’s ion structure, which prevents the chlorine from penetrating porous material such as wood and drywall. When mold grows in porous areas, the enzyme’s roots grow deep within the material, rendering the bleach ineffective of exterminating the mold. The bleach can only remove the green stain from the mold, allowing surface to appear clean. But underneath the surface, the water component of the bleach penetrates and helps the internal roots to continue to grow, causing mold to reappear.

3. Bleach is Toxic

Bleach emits harmful fumes that pollute the air we breathe and can become harmful to humans and even pets. Over a period of time, inhaling the gases bleach emits can deteriorate the lungs and esophagus lining in addition to the scarring of the respiratory tract, which occurs in earlier stages. Also research shows that household bleach is one of the leading causes of accidental poisonings in the United States.

Here in Melbourne and Indian Harbor Beach, Florida, the risk of having mold in your home is a lot higher than other states. Why? Two words… heat and humidity. Mold thrives in dark, moist areas, and Florida’s humidity only helps that process. That’s why if you experience water damage and don’t take care of it the right way and in the first 48 hours; mold will begin to grow.

Happy Melbourne Customer Writes About Our Services

8/24/2017 (Permalink)

LETTER OF APPRECIATION

On Saturday, August 5th, 2017, we awoke at 5:00 A.M. to water running out of a broken pipe below the sink. We turned off the water and began running a wet-vac to remove what we could of the water. SERVPRO of South Brevard was contacted to take care of the job around 7:30 A.M.

Around 8:30 A.M. Alex Joseph and Shawn arrived, assessed the problem, and began applying necessary corrective measures. This included measurements of affected areas, checking moisture in locations that I would not have checked, placing fans and dehumidifiers, changing fan locations, removing fans and dehumidifiers from areas that were dry. This continued until Tuesday, August 8th, 2017.

Alex and Shawn showed dedication above and beyond "normal" employees, in that they were available and ready to tackle a long job on the weekend on short notice.

Alex showed superior management skills in ensuring the teams time was used to ensure the maximum amount of work done, in the minimum time necessary to accomplish the task at hand. At all points of the job, Alex kept me informed, not only of the progress, but also the projected time needed to complete each phase of the job.

Alex's knowledge and expertise showed in his professionalism and mannerism as the team worked on the job. His general timeline was accurate as well.

Job well done!

Yours Truly,

Ricky C. 
Satisfied Customer of Melbourne, FL

Financing to Fit your Needs

8/1/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Brevard is excited to announce that we are now offering financial solutions for our customers through our new corporate partner, Greensky Financing.

Why use GreenSky Financing?

GreenSky loan program is focused on being simple and out-ranks its competitors in the financing business. They offer low monthly payments, no prepayment penalties, multiple ways to make payment, and quick approvals (same day in most cases), which allows us to let our customers rest assured that their property is being taken care of, as well as the payment. Financing terms are available for a variety of services- from deductibles, non-coverage on insurance claims, or even just a home remodel.  

Why did SERVPRO partner with GreenSky?

We at SERVPRO realize that damages to your property, either residential or commercial, never come at a GOOD time.  Sometimes we are prepared, but most of the time we aren’t…. so while SERVPRO of South Brevard helps make your property damage “Like It Never Even Happened,” we can take some of the pressure of financing the job off as well. 

How Does GreenSky Program Works?

Step #1: Customer Applies

Customers can apply online through the program website, by phone, or on the mobile application.

Step #2: Customer Gets Approved

Credit decisions can be delivered in SECONDS!!! The approved customers receive a GreenSky account number and loan agreement from the lender.

Step #3: You Get Funded

Use the customer’s GreenSky account number to process the payment just like a credit card.

Common Household Molds & Your Health

7/28/2017 (Permalink)

Mold spores are everywhere in our environment and can enter our homes easier than you would think. Most types of mold grow quickly, if they have a water source, an organic food source and temperatures between 60 and 86 Fahrenheit. Since many Florida homes may have 1 or 2 of these characteristics, especially in the bathrooms, we need to know what to look for in regards to common household molds, and how they affect our health.

Cladosporium

• Characteristics: green, brown, grey, or black; powdery appearance.
• Where it Grows: on food, dead plants, wood, insulation, and dark, damp environments.
• Health Effects: can cause severe allergic reactions, and harmful for people with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems.

Aspergillus

• Characteristics: grey, brown, yellow, green, white, or black and grows quickly.
• Where it Grows: on walls, insulation, soil, clothing, and humid, moist areas.
• Health Effects: can cause infections in people with weak immune systems, or produces a carcinogen called aflatoxin.

Penicillium

• Characteristics: green, white, or blue; fuzzy appearance.
• Where it Grows: on food, walls, insulation, and moist, organic matter.
• Health Effects: irritates the stomach if ingested; airborne spores can cause congestion, coughing and/or eye irritation.

Alternaria

• Characteristics: dark green, grey, or black; long, velvety hairs; doesn’t need much water to grow.
• Where it Grows: on carpets, clothing, around windows, and damp areas such as flooded houses.
• Health Effects: can cause respiratory problems, asthma, or hay fever.

Stachybotrys, known as “Toxic Black Mold”

• Characteristics: dark green, or black; slimy
• Where it Grows: on walls, ceilings, floorboards, and any moist area.
• Health Effects: may cause cancer, headaches, asthma, dizziness, or joint pain.

Memnoniella

• Characteristics: dark green, or black; smaller than stachybotrys
• Where it Grows: on cotton, canvas, wool, ceilings, walls, or damp areas.
• Health Effects: can cause respiratory problems, headaches, or coughing.

If your have questions about mold check out Mold Remediation FAQs 

Florida Wildfire Evacuation: Steps to Take Before Leaving

5/17/2017 (Permalink)

If you are in a situation where authorities advise you to evacuate your residence due to an approaching wildfire, do so immediately. If authorities say you have some time before evacuating your premises, there are some tasks you can perform to help the firefighters and could help protect your home.

Remember the five P’s of evacuation

People, Prescriptions, Papers, Personal needs, and Priceless items.

Protect Your Home

? Turn ON the lights outside and in every room to make the house more visible in heavy smoke.

? Close all windows, vents, doors, and fireplace screens. By doing this, it will help reduce drafts in your house and reduce heat.

? In case you lose power, disconnect automatic garage door openers so the door can be opened by hand.

?Remove all flammable curtains and window treatments in case windows brake. Also move flammable furniture towards the center of your home, away from all windows and sliding glass doors.

? Fill garbage cans, tubs, or other large containers with water. Also shut off natural gas from the source, and move propane or fuel oil supplies away from the house.

How to Put Out a Grease Fire

2/10/2017 (Permalink)

Has there been a time that you planned to cook an AMAZING dinner, but you found yourself cooking up a disaster and producing more smoke than the great aroma you were expecting? At any point during the cooking process, a grease fire can occur. These fires can quickly become devastating and potentially fatal.

A fire only requires THREE components to burn: oxygen, heat, and fuel. The safest and smartest way to kill a grease fire is by removing one of the components. Oxygen will be the fastest to remove because it takes time for the electric burner to cool down and it’s not safe to remove the fuel (grease).

Here are the CORRECT steps to kill a grease fire:

1. Turn off the electricity supply to the stove top.
2. Eliminate the oxygen supply.

        - Put on kitchen mitts so you don’t burn yourself

        - Grab the lid that fits the pot/pan and slide it across the top of the pot/pan

          Or

        -  If you do not have a lid, you can use a cookie sheet and repeat the step above

3. Call the fire department.
4. Call SERVPRO and we can come clean your mess up and make it look “Like it never even happened”.

Alternative methods:

        - Fire extinguisher

        - Pour a large amount of baking soda on the flames

        - Use a soaking wet cloth, and carefully drape the cloth over the pot/pan

Here is what NOT to do:

1. Use water to put out the flames.

         - Water is heavier than oil; therefore the water will sink to the bottom. This causes the water to rapidly heat up, and an explosion to occur.

2. Swat the flames with a cloth
3. Throw flour on the flames (flour is combustible)
4. Move the pot/pan (not even to another stove burner)

And Remember!  If you can’t handle the heat, get out of the kitchen.

8 Tips for Fire Damage

12/29/2016 (Permalink)

Fires can be extremely devastating to your home and business. When a fire occurs, and damage is done, it can be extremely stressful and frustrating to figure out what to do next. The most important thing to remember is to stay calm and read these tips on what to do next.

Call SERVPRO

After the trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. That is where SERVPRO can help you get your property back in good shape. SERVPRO professionals who are specialized in fire and water damage restoration will quickly clean up and restore your home and belongings. They also remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet. Call as quickly as you can, as the longer you wait, the worse the damage will become.

Keep Hands Clean

With all of the residue from the fire laying around, it is a good idea to keep your hands as clean as possible by washing them and avoiding touching any soot or dust with your bare hands. If you have to touch something that has been burned in the fire, use protective gloves to protect your skin and avoid spreading any of the residue around. The soot and dust will spread very easily and can be very dangerous if it gets into your eyes or mouth, so keep your hands as clean as possible to avoid any health hazards.

Remove Pets

When your home is still waiting to be cleaned and restored by SERVPRO, it is highly recommended that you keep all pets away from the damage for their safety and for yours. You do not want your pets tracking any soot or debris around and you definitely do not want them getting any of it in their mouths. The remnants of the fire can be extremely dangerous if animals consume it and if it gets onto their paws or fur, they bring it with them everywhere they go. The best you can remove them from the area, the better for everyone’s safety.

Empty Freezer and Refrigerator

If the fire damage is extensive enough that your power is turned off, remember to empty your freezer and refrigerator. This will save time and maintenance down the road when you do not have to deal with rotting and stinky food that was left in the kitchen. Beyond the refrigerator, it is safe to say that removing all food that was in the presence of the fire should be disposed of for safety purposes. It is not safe to consume food that has been touched by flames or smoke and can cause damage to your health if eaten.

Avoid Electrical Appliances

After a fire takes place in a home, any electrical appliances in the area should be avoided. The wires in electrical appliances can become extremely dangerous if they have been exposed to any flames or smoke. It is best to not touch these appliances and let the SERVPRO professionals dispose of the appliances properly so that no further damage occurs and additional fires do not start.

Have Dishes and Eating Utensils Assessed

Eating food off of any contaminated dishware or utensils can cause severe illness. Avoid this by having your items properly inspected by a SERVPRO professional restoration specialist. If the items are not able to be restored, they need to be disposed of properly so that they do not interfere with the health of anyone who comes in contact with them.

Change Air Filters

It is important to change the air filters after a house fire to avoid spreading smoke around even more. During a fire, smoke can drift through household ducts and become trapped. Adding a new filter into the mix can help trap the odor and reduce the dispersion of it throughout your home. If not properly removed, smoke odor can recur from time to time, especially during any warm or damp days.

Make a List

Making a list of all items that you believe have been permanently damaged or ruined by a house fire can help assist your insurance company with your claim. If it is possible, take as many pictures as possible of the damaged areas and make detailed notes of what has been lost. SERVPRO professionals will do their best to restore any damaged items such as dvd players, clothing, and furniture. If there are items that are beyond salvation, making your insurance company aware of the damage is the best method of having those items replaced or compensated.

Water and Flood Damage: What's the Difference?

11/11/2016 (Permalink)

Water is a necessity, but not when it is causing damage to your home or business. If water damage does occur, SERVPRO of South Brevard can clean and restore your home to make it as though it never happened. However, the cleaning and restoration after damage occurs is not the only piece of the puzzle. When water causes damage, an insurance claim should be made as soon as possible.

Filing an insurance claim because of unwanted water can be complicated. The first step is knowing the difference between a water damage claim and a flood damage. This information is crucial to the policyholder because it determines what is covered and what is not.

The distinction between a water damage claim and a flood damage claim can best be defined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) flood definition. According to FEMA, a flood is a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres and two or more properties of normally dry land.

To simplify the matter, if the water that caused the damage occurred from a natural source and any neighbors are experiencing the same water issues, it is safe to say the situation is a matter of flooding. According to FEMA, flood damage can only be caused by overflow of inland or tidal waters, unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source, mudflow, or collapse of land along the shore of a lake or similar body of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels that result in a flood.

If a flood has caused damage to your home, it is important to know if you currently have flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program, because home insurance companies do not offer coverage on flood damage. Having flood insurance is extremely beneficial to homeowners who think they might even have the slightest chance of being affected by a flood. The official site of the National Flood Insurance Program states that flood insurance policies cover physical damage to your property and possessions.

Everything from the actual building and its foundation to the refrigerator and the food inside of it is covered by flood insurance and will be taken into consideration when claims are filed. Flood insurance does cover basements and areas below the lowest elevated floor, but it depends on the flood zone and the date of construction. It is important to remember that flood insurance does not cover the sentimental value of any property, so be sure to remove any precious items such as photos, documents, or personal items that cannot be replaced as quickly as possible.

When water damage occurs in your home, did not originate from a natural source, and is not affecting any surrounding buildings, a water damage claim is necessary. Circumstances such as overflowing bathtubs, broken toilets, burst water mains, and broken pipes are all grounds for water damage claims that should be filed by contacting your home insurance company.

Working through the process of filing both a water damage claim and a flood damage claim can be tricky and seem overwhelming. SERVPRO offers a Contents Claim Inventory Service for customers who already have enough stress to deal with. What this service does is provide a detailed and accurate list of all of your belongings. Our Technicians have the experience needed to deliver detailed and accurate reports to insurance companies and help settle claims fast.

If you are experiencing either water or flood damage in your home, SERVPRO of South Brevard can inspect the damage, remove the moisture, and make repairs using state of the art extraction equipment as quickly as possible.

It is important to take immediate action when it comes to both water and flood damage. Refer to our Water Damage Emergency Tips and keep safety as your primary focus. Do not fret, SERVPRO has the ability and resources to go beyond just basic restoration by repairing electronics such as televisions and computers and also dry photographs and documents. Highly trained Water Restoration Technicians are available around the clock for when damage occurs and are only a phone call away.

5 Ways to Spot Water Damage to Your Foundation

10/19/2016 (Permalink)

One of the most serious issues that can be caused by water damage is water getting into the foundation. This has the potential to cause many structural issues to the house. Some of these structural issues can be quite easy to see but others can be quite difficult to see. No matter how easy these problems are to spot, noticing them early will make fixing the issue easier and cheaper than if they are found later on. Here are five tips to spotting water damage to your foundation that will save you time and money.

Wet Soil Around the House

If the soil around the house is very wet, this is a sign that the water around the house is not draining as it should. If water is standing around the house, it has the ability to seep into the foundation. When water gathers at the foundation of the home, this has the ability to cause serious structural issues to the house.

Wet Crawl Space

If your home has a crawl space, an area that has limited height and is typically used for electrical wiring, this space is often vulnerable to water damage. You can tell that water has infiltrated the crawl space and is causing trouble as there will be moisture, standing water, or staining within the crawl space. If this crawl space is underneath your floors, this is caused by water that has seeped into the foundation of the home. If this crawl space is in your attic, that means you likely have a leak in your roof somewhere. Either way, this is a problem that must be rectified to avoid worse water damage throughout the home and to restore the structural stability of the home.

Uneven Floors

The floors in your home should be straight and level with the foundation of the house. If there happens to be any deviation in the levelness of the floors, that shows that there are issues with the foundation. It doesn’t necessarily mean that there is water damage within the foundation, but that certainly could be the issue. Any issues with floors can be difficult to tell so if you think water may have infiltrated your foundation, you might want to consider bringing out the leveler to check how level your floors are. The change might be very small and only noticeable using a leveler.

Appearance of Discoloration or Mildew Outside of the House

Water that is properly draining from your house shouldn’t be standing next to your house long enough that it can cause stains and mildew. If stains or mildew are being caused by standing water, that water is probably there long enough to drain into the foundation of the home. Additionally, any issues like mold or mildew, which is caused by the existence of moisture, that accumulates near your home can cause health issues for your family, especially if anyone in your home suffers from asthma or respiratory problems.

Your Doors Are Not Working Properly

If you have a door that was working fine but now is sticking or jamming, it may be because the wood of the doorframe is warped. Water is often the cause of wood warping. This could be that water has accumulated around the door and has caused water damage. But another, and more severe issue, could be that water has gotten into the foundation of the home and has caused the warping of the wood. If it is water damage as opposed to foundation damage, it may also cause problems to windows around the house which could make it difficult to open and close them as the wood around the window warps.

Damage to the foundation of your home is a serious matter. The foundation is set to create a safe and stable home for your family. But if water gets into the foundation, it has the ability to create several issues including the warping of wood around door frames and making floors uneven. The most severe issue it can cause is problems to the stability of the home. The longer water sits in any place, the more damage it can cause. So if you have any sort of water damage around your home, it’s important that you contact the professionals at SERVPRO immediately to ensure that the problem doesn’t become worse.

SERVPRO Staff Continue to Make Difference in Community

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

While SERVPRO South Brevard is committed to serving its community through exemplary water and fire restoration service, we also want to serve our community in other ways. One of our staff members recently took part in a community event through the Melbourne Beach Rotary Club which was planned for such a purpose. 

The Melbourne Beach Rotary Club is a part of Rotary, an international organization made up of professional business leaders. There are more than 1.2 million members, called rotarians, that reside in 160 countries and are a part of 30,000 clubs. These clubs meet up weekly with the objective of finding ways to serve their community. Going by the motto “Service Above Self,” these clubs organize community service projects that address major issues in society such as clean water, children at risk, poverty, hunger, illiteracy, and violence.

Recently the Melbourne Beach Rotary Club hosted an event to raise money for Candlelighters of Brevard. This organization exists to provide children with cancer a mental, physical and emotional release from their disease. Through programs and services such as Home Away From Home where family members of patients are put up for free to be by their loved one, the Utility Assistance Program designed to help pay the family’s utility bills, and the Angel Fund which provides a one-time financial donation to families that suffer the loss of a child, the organization is able to make the lives of child cancer patients and their families just a little bit easier.

To raise money for this noble cause, the Melbourne Beach Rotary Club held a golf tournament at Aquarina Golf Course in Melbourne Beach. Of all the proceeds received by the Rotary Club during the event, 75 percent went directly to the organization to aid them in running their programs. The donation by the Rotary Club will help Candlelighters of Brevard continue to help young cancer patients and their families with whatever program or service that they need during this difficult time.

SERVPRO Marketing Representative Heath Parks is a proud member of the Melbourne Beach Rotary Club. Following the ethos of SERVPRO, Heath does whatever he can to help the members of his community. In addition to being a volunteer firefighter, Heath also takes part in community events that are geared toward helping those within his community. One such event that he has taken part in was the golf tournament earlier this month. He’s one of a number of staff members who go out of their way to make a positive in their community.

Providing water, fire, and smoke restoration to those that have suffered such a fate in their homes, SERVPRO’s focus is to help the members of their community get through difficult times. But that’s not something that stays within the doors of the company. SERVPRO also encourages their staff to make a difference in their own community however they can. Heath’s commitment to his community is indicative of the culture that SERVPRO strives to create within the business and spread to their staff members.

Top 5 Causes of Home Water Damage

9/26/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage is one of the worst fears for a homeowner. Just a little bit of water can create a significant amount of damage to your home. Whether a leak or some other problem, it is important to have any amount of water damage cleaned up as soon as possible as irreparable damage can occur within 48 hours of the initial incident.

Recently, the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) conducted a study using insurance claims to identify what the leading causes of water damage were. These are the top five causes of water damage and what you can do to avoid such a fate.

Plumbing Supply

A failure to your plumbing supply system has the ability to cost you about $5,000 after your insurance deductible. Indicators of such a problem include an increase in your monthly water bill, banging pipes, rust stains, moisture in the walls or the floors, and signs of wet soil erosion near the foundation. You can take steps to avoid such a problem by ensuring that your pipes will not freeze during the cold winter months. To keep your pipes from freezing in the cold, set your thermostat at 60 degrees, let your faucets drip to get the water out of your pipes, and insulate your pipes to keep them warm. Additionally, you can install a house leak detection system that will alert you should there be a leak in your home.

Toilet

One of the most common sources of water damage is a toilet failure and one-third of toilet failures are caused by overflowing or a clogged toilet. After taking out the deductible, water damage due to toilet failure typically cost more than $5,500. To avoid a toilet failure in your home, wait until the valve has finished refilling the tank and bowl after flushing. If it looks as though an overflow might be coming, turn off the supply valve to avoid the water spilling out. Another way to prevent toilet failure is to inspect your toilet’s components twice a year. This inspection should include the supply valve, the flush valve, and the supply line. While you’re at it, you might want to consider upgrading your toilet’s supply line to a sturdier braided steel hose.

Water Heater

Most water heater failures are caused by a slow leak or a sudden burst in the tank. The next common cause of water heater failures is due to the supply line. Checking the life expectancy and warranty for your water heater will tell you whether or not you need to replace your water heater. To increase the life expectancy and delay replacing your water heater, perform proper maintenance. This includes flushing sediments and inspecting your heater’s anode rod. Inspecting the water heater’s valves will ensure that they are all in proper working order. Whenever possible, you should use ball valves instead of gate valves which will improve its working condition.

Plumbing Drain

Sewer backups are at fault for more than half of plumbing system failures with the majority of these issues occurring in the southern states. Problems with the plumbing drain system run at an average cost of $4,000 per incident after the insurance deductible. With that type of cost per incident, homeowners will want to do what they can to prevent such an event. The easiest way to prevent these problems is by refraining from pouring grease down the drain. Another way you can prevent sewer problems is by installing a backflow prevention assembly for the home’s sewer system if the home’s sewer system is connected to the city’s system. This is generally a problem for older homes. If you are considering planting trees, doing so away from lateral drain lines will ensure that the roots don’t end up damaging any piping.

Washing Machines

Washing machine hose failures are at fault for more than half of claims that the IBHS study recorded. The average cost to the homeowner after their insurance deductible came to $5,300 per incident. The reason why these incidents are so troublesome is that a burst inlet hose can cause an entire laundry room to flood in just a matter of minutes. To avoid this occurring, it’s recommended that you replace the rubber hoses every three years. If you want to go a step further, you can replace the rubber hoses with braided steel hoses. Other tips include turning off the hot and cold water supply valve when you leave the house and not overloading the machine.

Water damage can be a devastating and costly event for a homeowner. These tips will help you avoid the potential troubles that come with water damage. If you do suffer from water damage in your home, call on the professionals at SERVPRO for a quality restoration.

SERVPRO South Brevard Opens New Facility

9/1/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO South Brevard continues to grow larger allowing us to further serve our community by restoring property and homes that have been damaged by water, flood, fire, mold, or some other type of disaster. Due to our extensive growth, we have been lucky enough to move into a new, larger location that is capable for satisfying our needs.

In celebration of our move, we held an open house on August 18, where we were fortunate enough to invite about 40 businesspeople to tour our new location. Visitors were welcomed to the location through the lobby of the facility where they were given an opportunity to win one of 14 different prizes through gift certificates that were solicited from local restaurants, hotels, and businesses. Attendees placed their business cards into a bowl from which the winners were drawn.

The new facility features a climate controlled clean room where professionals perform cleaning and restoration services. For the open house, SERVPRO South Brevard set up four stations where they displayed carpet cleaning, water and mold restoration, deodorizing, and a storage and chemical room. One or two technicians were available at each station to educate attendees of SERVPRO’s cleaning and restoration processes. Each visitor had a card which was marked as they visited each station. A visit to all four stations entered them in a grand prize drawing.

Two of the four stations that participants had the opportunity to visit were located in our warehouse. With this setup, members of our community were able to view our variety of equipment, storage units, and chemical room. By showing off the equipment we use to perform our cleaning and restoration services, we were able to show visitors the capabilities we have due to our use of technological advances.

Near the end of the evening, everyone gathered outside for the official ribbon cutting of the new facility. The ribbon cutting the SERVPRO South Brevard’s way of introducing their new facility to the public. It was an important announcement that we are now in the community and ready to serve our community better than ever before due to our enhanced facilities. Due to the negative impact that delaying restoration can have on the home and the survival of certain possessions, we want people to know that we’re here and they can trust us when they’re in need.

This open house was important to us for multiple reasons. It gave us the opportunity to announce our presence in the community. It also allowed us to inform the public about our services. Any type of damage to your home is devastating and waiting to restore could have catastrophic consequences. However, sometimes people are fearful if they don’t know the process being used to restore their home. The four stations, very popular among visitors, gave us the opportunity to explain how we restore and clean your home or possessions and why it’s important to restore and clean as soon as possible following damage.

The success and growth for SERVPRO South Brevard has allowed us to open a new facility at 2335 Aurora Road in Melbourne. This new facility will allow us to better serve our community with more room and more advanced equipment. If you suffer from water, fire, or mold damage and are in need of restoration, call on the trusted professionals at SERVPRO to restore your home.

The Process of Restoring Smoke Damage

8/15/2016 (Permalink)

When a fire occurs in your home, it’s not the flames that do all of the damage, as there are contributions from smoke. The smoke odor removal process should begin quickly after the flames are put out and before any normal cleaning or repairs to ensure proper removal of the odor. To ensure that the deodorization is successful, a three-step process to control the odor should take place. Any less than these three steps could result in an ineffective removal of the smoke odor.

Taking care of deodorizing any smoke damage or areas that have been affected by smoke offers many advantages. These advantages include starting off the cleanup process with positive steps, it creates a more effective working environment for the restoration crews, and they can evaluate the effectiveness of the solution used prior to moving on to other restoration services.

First Step

The first step in treating smoke odor that may have been cause by a fire is treating the walls, floors, or ceilings. Any of these barriers that have been damaged by the smoke will need to be treated by a special spray. During and following the fire, smoke molecules may have escaped into the air in the room. The purpose of the spray is to limit the amount of these molecules that get into the air.

This spray will work by creating a barrier in the smoke which will stop any potential smoke molecules that otherwise could get through from doing so. It works by using penetrants and emulsifiers to slow down or stop the odor evaporation process. Any areas that have been damaged by the smoke will need to be soaked in the spray. Any porous materials that has absorbed the smoke will absorb the spray in the same way.

Second Step

The second step in controlling and removing smoke odors that are emanating from the fire is to control the airborne particles that have been released into the air or have escaped the spray during the first step. This second solution is designed to release an odor counteractant vapor that will enable it to manage the smoke particles that are in the air.

This solution will not be used on surfaces that feature plastic, have been painted, or varnish as the qualities that make it so effective with airborne particles may negatively affect these surfaces. However, this solution can be used on attics, crawl spaces, and areas above suspended ceilings.

Once the first two steps have been completed, the results of the applications will be evaluated to see whether or not it was effective. If the only smell is that of the counteractant, that means the process of successful. If there is still a smoke odor existing, a stronger solution will be needed.

Third Step

The final step in the process is thermal fogging. This step will replicate the characteristics of a fire such as heat. Due to the effects of this step, the area will have a mandatory evacuation. Those involved in the fogging will also be required to wear special protective equipment to ensure their safety. Due to the fact that the process replicates the characteristics of a fire, the local fire department and other local authorities must be notified about what is occurring.

Additionally, danger signs will be posted following the fogging. This serves many purposes which include adding professionalism to the jobsite, meeting legal requirements, reducing the risk of injury, serving as an advertisement for the public, and providing emergency information that may be needed such as phone numbers.

One of the biggest causes of damage that occurs as a result of a house fire is smoke damage. To ensure that the smoke is safely removed, a three-step process should be completed. By the end of the process, all remnants of smoke odors should have been removed. To ensure that this process is completed thoroughly and safely, allowing for the cleaning and painting stages of the restoration to take place, only professionals should be involved in the removal of smoke odors. If you have suffered a fire in your home and are looking for professionals to handle the job, call on SERVPRO to restore your home to its original state.

Cleaning Up After a Fire

8/2/2016 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), there are an estimated 370,000 house fires each year in the United States. These fires costs a total of $7 billion in total property damage. But what kind of fires are causing this damage and how are these fires cleaned up?

Types of Fires

There are three main types of fires that typically occur in homes across America; high-oxygen fires, low-oxygen fires, and kitchen fires. Each of these fires have their own aspects that allow them to create different types of damage. There are also different ways to properly clean them up.

A major factor that impacts the damage a fire causes is oxygen. Oxygen is part of the fire triangle of heat, fuel, and oxygen.

High-oxygen Fire

High-oxygen fires produce dry soot which makes these easier to clean than the other main types of house fires. They can typically be cleaned using a low-alkali detergent with dry sponges.

Low-oxygen Fire

A low-oxygen fire is a little more difficult to clean than a high-oxygen fire as it produces greasy, wet soot. This wet, smoky residue causes the fire to smolder. These fires are usually cleaned using a high-alkali detergent with warm water which can be used to wash walls and structures.

Kitchen Fire

Usually the most challenging type of fire damage to clean are kitchen fires. The biggest challenge of these fires come from the fact that the soot residue is difficult to detect. After kitchen fires, cabinets, drawers, and other appliances many times must be removed.

Cleaning Fires

Most of the damage that comes from fires doesn’t come from the actual flames but from the smoke and soot that the fire produces. This smoke and soot has the ability to penetrate the paint, carpet, upholstery, and clothes throughout the house. While some material in the affected home will need to be removed and disposed of, other materials are able to be cleaned. When the cleaning process takes place, there are some key aspects regardless of where the fire occurs.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Safety is the most important aspect when cleaning up a fire. Anyone cleaning up a fire should wear gloves, a protective mask, long-sleeved shirts, and pants. This equipment will help to minimize contact with the mold that could be dangerous. Again, professionals are trained to deal with mold so that it doesn’t harm them or anyone else in the house which is a major reason why only professionals should deal with mold.

Remove Contents from the Home

Regardless of what the material is that has been damaged, all contents inside the home should be removed. However, depending on what the specific material is that is being dealt with, it may not need to be discarded. While some materials do need to be discarded following a fire, others are able to be cleaned.

Ventilation

Ventilation is a key part of, not just putting out a fire, but also restoring a home after a fire. Smoke and soot create an uninhabitable environment in the building which is in need of fresh air. When the firefighters arrive on the scene, they will begin the ventilation process immediately to make the building safer. After they leave, ventilating will help by removing odors.

Additional Contaminants

While smoke and soot are responsible for the majority of the damage, lead and asbestos also can create an environment that is in need of restoration. If they become disturbed, what began as a simple fire restoration could become a serious environmental restoration.

Duct Cleaning

The smoke and soot that are a result of a fire can get trapped in the duct system of the building. Because of this, a thorough duct cleaning is required after any fire restoration. If a duct cleaning is not completed, there’s the possibility that contaminants and odors can spread to other areas of the home.

A fire in the home can be a devastating event. Depending on what type of fire occurs, the damage can force a small clean up or a total clean up. Either way, there are certain aspects of the restoration that will need to be completed. If you suffer a fire in your home, call on the professionals at SERVPRO to ensure a complete restoration.

What to Do After a Fire

7/18/2016 (Permalink)

If you suffer a fire in your home, putting the flames out is just the beginning. As time goes on, the smoke and soot that has accumulated has the potential to cause more damage. To prevent any further damage from occurring, you should contact the professionals at SERVPRO who have the expertise to help prevent any further damage. But, while you should contact the professionals immediately, every second counts and you may want to take steps to help prevent further damage from occurring.

Ash and Smoke Damage

Much of the damage that will be caused by a house fire isn’t from the flames or the searing heat but from the ash and smoke that comes with it. Ash and smoke can cause extensive corrosion, etching, discoloration, and powerful odors around the house. The damage starts with the discoloring of most surfaces. Within minutes, anything that is made of plastic or was close to the fire will start to discolor. Within hours, fiberglass and finishes on any appliances will begin to yellow and metals may tarnish. Within a few days, walls, clothing, and upholstery will permanently discolor, wood and vinyl will need refinishing or replacement, and metals will start corroding. Due to the quick progression of damage that can occur to most of the objects around the house, you’ll need to contact the IICRC-certified professionals at SERVPRO.

Get Permission to Re-Enter the Home

When a fire occurs in your home, you should use your escape plan to get out as quickly as possible. And before re-entering the house, wait until you receive permission from the fire marshal. The soot and dirty water that collects in the home can contain dangerous bacteria. It’s important to allow the professionals to handle this before re-entering the home. Further, coming into contact with fire damaged materials can be hazardous. You may want to enter the house as soon as possible to assess the damage but waiting for the fire marshal to give you permission to re-enter can save further trouble.

Tips to Prevent Further Damage

Open Windows to Ventilate

Ventilation is key to the restoration of a home after a fire. Firefighters ventilate to remove smoke, heat, and fire gases but you can do it to create a better environment and prevent the possibility of any further damage occurring. It’s important to know that improper ventilation or the air being delivered at the wrong time can be hazardous. That’s another reason why it’s important to wait for the fire marshal to give you permission to re-enter the home.

To help circulate the air around the house, consider installing a fan. The firefighters may have caused significant water damage in the home in their attempt to put out the fire. Cold air typically is more effective than warm air at removing moisture from the home so if there has been substantial water damage and the weather is warm, the windows may need to be kept shut and a dehumidifier may be the best option.

If the weather is cold outside, you’re heating system is operating and the cold air will usually help to remove any moisture. If this is the situation, you’ll want to change the furnace filter daily until it shows that there is no soot in it.

SERVPRO South Brevard Named Top 100 Franchise

6/6/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO South Brevard has been recognized as one of the top 100 SERVPRO franchises in the nation. Additionally, the brand itself has been recognized by Entrepreneur Magazine as one of the top five franchises in their most recent ranking.

For the past 37 years, Entrepreneur Magazine has ranked the top 500 franchises in the country. These rankings are based on several factors which include financial strength and stability, growth rate, and the size of the system. This year, SERVPRO was named as the fourth ranked franchise overall and were the top franchise in the insurance/disaster restoration and cleaning industry. The only companies ranked ahead of SERVPRO were Jimmy John’s Sandwiches, Hampton by Hilton, and Supercuts.

Not only was SERVPRO ranked as the fourth best franchise, it was one of only five restoration and cleaning companies to be named to the top 500 list. The next closest competitor came in at number 155. This is the seventh straight year that SERVPRO has been ranked in the top 10 overall by Entrepreneur Magazine and the 13th consecutive year that they were listed as the top restoration company.

In addition to SERVPRO being named one of the top 500 franchises in the country, the company itself named SERVPRO South Brevard as one of the top 100 franchises in its annual Top 100 Franchises in the Nation list. This award recognizes the SERVPRO franchises that have contributed to making the company one of the top brands in America. It also recognizes those franchises that have shown dedication to serving their customers to the best of their ability.

Being named as one of SERVPRO’s top 100 franchises in the country in a tremendous honor for owner John Robertson and his team. The fact that SERVPRO itself was ranked so highly by Entrepreneur Magazine further solidifies SERVPRO South Brevard as the premier restoration and cleaning company in the area.

If you’re in need of restoration for water, fire, or mold damage, call on the premier restoration company in Brevard County to help.

Mold Cleanup Methods

5/2/2016 (Permalink)

If you have mold in your home, it’s important that you have the professionals at SERVPRO handle the cleanup or remediation. The process of cleaning up mold can be complicated and dangerous if you’re not trained to do the job properly. Also, due to the fact that dead mold can still be dangerous to your health, it must be removed rather than killed.

Mold typically occurs in buildings when there is an excess of moisture or water present and can grow on virtually anything. Therefore, the purpose of mold remediation is to correct the moisture problem and to rid the building of moldy or contaminated materials. This will prevent human exposure to the mold and any further damage to the building materials or furnishings.

If porous materials have become wet causing mold to grow on them, they may need to be discarded because molds can penetrate porous materials growing on or filling in the empty spaces or crevices. This type of mold can very difficult or seemingly impossible to completely remove.

Even in dead mold, chemicals and proteins that can cause a reaction in humans are present so killing the mold with biocide isn’t enough. It must be removed. There are a variety of cleanup methods that can be used to remediate potential damage to building materials and furnishings. Which method is chosen depends on the type of material that’s been affected by the mold.

Wet Vacuum

Wet vacuums are vacuum cleaners that are designed specifically to collect water. These can be used to remove water from floors, carpets, and hard surfaces where water has gathered. These vacuum cleaners are used on wet materials only as the spores could be exhausted into indoor environments if there isn’t enough liquid present. Any tanks, hoses, or attachments of the vacuum need to be thoroughly cleaned and dried because the mold or mold spores may adhere to equipment surfaces.

Damp Wipe

Wiping or scrubbing with water and detergent can usually remove mold from nonporous surfaces. The surfaces should be dried quickly and thoroughly to discourage further mold growth. Product labels have instructions for the cleaning surfaces which should always be read and followed.

HEPA Vacuum

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuums are recommended for the remediation area’s final cleanup once the materials have been dried and all of the contaminated materials have been removed. For any dust that may have ended up on the surfaces outside of the remediation area, HEPA vacuums are recommended. When using the vacuum, the filter must be properly seated in the vacuum to ensure that air passes through the filters.

Remediators changing the vacuum filter should be wearing respirators, appropriate personal protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection in order to avoid being exposed to potentially captured mold or other contaminants. When finished, the filter and any contents must be disposed of in impermeable bags or containers which is important in preventing the release of any debris.

Disposal of Damaged Materials

For those building materials and furnishings that have been contaminated with mold growth and are not able to be salvaged will be placed in impermeable bags or closed containers while they remain in the remediation area. These materials can usually be discarded as ordinary construction waste. When discarding these mold-contaminated materials, they’ll be packaged to minimize the dispersion of mold spores.

Large items that have suffered heavy mold growth will be covered with polyethylene sheeting and will be sealed with duct tape prior to being removed from the remediation area. For some jobs dealing with large quantities of debris, dust-tight chutes place strategically outside a window in the remediation area might be required to move the debris to the dumpster.

Use of Biocides

Biocides are toxic to animals and humans so when using disinfectants or biocides, the room will always be ventilated using outside air. This will exhaust the air to the outdoors. If fans are used, the remediators will take care not to extend the zone of contamination by spreading the spores to other areas.

Since some biocides are considered pesticides, some states require that those applying these products in schools, commercial buildings, and homes be registered pesticide applicators. Any fungicides that are meant for outdoor use shouldn’t be applied indoors as they can be extremely harmful to animals and humans in an enclosed environment.

The existence of mold in your home can be a health risk to you and your family. The process of eradicating the mold is complicated and can cause more problems if it’s not done properly. If you have in your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO to ensure complete mold remediation.

Why You Should Call Professionals to Clean Your Rug

4/15/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage can cause serious harm to your house’s foundation and compromise the structural integrity of the home. It can cause damage to your walls, roof, and to the floor. But water damage doesn’t just affect the structural parts of your home.

If you’ve suffered water damage in your home, you might’ve suffered some damage to personal belongings. One such belonging, carpet or upholstery, should be cleaned by the professionals at SERVPRO rather than attempting to do it yourself. Regardless of how well you think you might be able to restore the item, the results won’t be as good as if you hire professionals to do the job. No matter how large the item is or how much it costs, the professional technicians at SERVPRO can clean, repair, and restore the item to preserve its condition and prolong its lifespan.

One of the most popular types of carpeting to see in homes are area rugs. They come in all different sizes and designs and can be used for decorative and practical purposes. They’re often used to keep other furniture such as tables and chairs from damaging hardwood floors. But they also collect dirt, odors, allergens, and discolorations due to the fact that so many people step on them each and every day.

Routine vacuuming and spot treatment are helpful to keeping the rug looking nice but that type of maintenance can only go so far. At the end of the day, you’ll need skilled technicians that have the professional training necessary to complete comprehensive maintenance every so often. The more people continue to step on the rug, the more often it will be in need of a good, professional cleaning.

Our highly trained, professional, IICRC certified technicians will begin the process of restoring your rug by analyzing the material that’s been damaged and determining what kind of repairs and/or cleaning needs to be undertaken to restore the rug to its original state. They’ll start the cleaning process with a thorough vacuuming, spot removal, and other repairs before giving the rug a good rinse. Next a pre-tested product is applied that is specially used by professional cleaners. They’ll work in this product using a gentle agitating brush before rinsing and drying the rug.

The majority of the water that’s being held within the fibers of the fabric will be drawn out using a centrifuge or other means that the professionals on site deem necessary. Then it will be hung for final drying. If improper techniques are used for drying, it can do irreparable damage to the material so it’s important that a professional that knows the exact way to clean and dry the rug so that it’s restored to its original state. Attempting to clean and dry the rug yourself can damage the appearance of the rug and ruin the rug leaving you having to purchase a new, expensive rug.

You’ll want the rug clean and dry so it can continue to serve its purpose of protecting your floor but you likely also want the rug to look nice as area rugs often are also used as a decorative piece. Our professionals that are restoring the rug will give the rug an appearance touch up like final pile brushing and combing the fringe prior to returning the rug to its owner.

While it may seem like cleaning a rug is a simple process that you can do yourself, that’s a surefire way of ruining your beautiful, expensive product. Therefore, it’s important that you hire professionals that are trained in this type of work. Companies that are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), like SERVPRO, are aware of the latest techniques and equipment, have the proper skills, and abide by IICRC’s strict standards for cleaning and restoration.

An area rug can be a great addition to your home serving the purpose of protecting your hardwood floor while also adding beautiful decoration to the house. But, as with your house, water can be the nemesis to the well being of your rug. You may think that you can clean and dry the rug yourself but to ensure that the rug is restored to its original state, an IICRC-certified firm needs to be brought in to handle the job. If you need a rug restored or need water, fire, or mold remediation, call SERVPRO to help.

The Health Hazards of Water Damage in Port Malabar

10/12/2015 (Permalink)

A Broken Sewage Line Means Blackwater

Unhealthy Water Damaged Home in Port Malabar Gets Restored by SERVPRO

After a natural disaster or pipe leak, water damage in your Port Malabar home can compromise the sanitation, safety, and structural integrity of your home. The longer the water damage goes unaddressed, the more problems it can present to your residential property. Thus what began as a category 1 loss can quickly evolve into Category 2 and even 3. Once this happens, your personal goods and furnishings could become unsalvageable. For these reasons, securing effective, immediate assistance is critically important in the 24 hours that follows the onset of water damage. Learn more about water damage and why hiring a professional water damage restoration service company like SERVPRO is important.

Categories Of Water Damage

One of the most important factors to consider when your property is impacted by water damage is the water's category. The three categories include:

Category 1: includes water intrusion through leaks, pipe breaks or rain water. Category 1 water is clean and poses no serious health hazards. The problem is that pooling, or standing water, can start to wick up and become absorbed into fabric and wood furniture. It may also damage electrical systems and household appliances and electronics.

Category 2: is grey water. This type of water contains a substantive degree of biological, physical, and chemical contamination. The water quality can result from factors such as a broken dishwasher drain (soap and food debris), leaky aquarium or a different source of water not directly linked to your drinking water supply line. This type of water can pose health hazards to humans and pets exposed to it.

Category 3: is black water. This type of water is dangerous because it contains pathogenic agents. This blackwater will contain bacteria, possible fertilizer seepage and many other sources of contamination. A very common source is a broken sewage line. Keep in mind that grey water (category 2) can degrade into Category 3 without prompt water extraction.

The Importance Of Getting Professional Help

In the event that your structural contents and materials have been contaminated by black or gray water, you will be in need of professional restoration assistance. Water damage remediation specialists possess the equipment, experience, and expertise necessary to properly clean, dry, and repair your property so that it is safe and sanitary to reenter and use. Hiring SERVPRO will also help mitigate expensive repair fees resulting from water damage.

Our professionals are IICRC-certified and possess advanced knowledge regarding the drying process. We will provide you with a preloss list and value of contents document, an assistance of burden of proof for claims which all translates into peace of mind for you. Additionally, we offer 24-hour emergency services for your water damage emergency in Palm Shores.

Locally Owned and Operated

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of South Brevard is close by and ready to respond to your water and flood damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the Port Malabar community and we also serve Satellite Beach and Sebastian. to Call us. (321) 777-5131

SERVPRO of South Brevard Acquires SERVPRO of Osceola County

8/31/2015 (Permalink)

John & Kim Robertson

SERVPRO Industries, Inc. is proud to announce the new owners of SERVPRO of Osceola County.   John and Kim Robertson, franchise owners of SERVPRO Of South Brevard and SERVPRO of West Brevard acquired ownership of SERVPRO of Osceola County.

SERVPRO of Osceola was started in 2005 by Sam Evans, and has served the St. Cloud and Kissimmee area for over 10 years.

New owner John Robertson said, “I look forward to providing the highest level of service to our customers, and continue to serve this community." 

For more information on commercial and residential cleaning and restoration services, from residential fire smoke and water damage restoration, to large commercial disaster response, contact SERVPRO Of South Brevard at 321-777-5131.

Palm Bay Mold Remediation FAQs

6/18/2015 (Permalink)

All fungi, like mold, release spores that travel along air currents.

Mold Remediation FAQs

How harmful is mold to my health?
Depending on the type of Palm Bay mold and a person's immune system response, the mycotoxins released by the harmful types of mold can cause allergic reactions, including asthma, eye discomfort, skin rash and other irritations.

How do I identify a mold problem?
Check the air and surfaces in the area. If you notice a musty smell, then you have a mold problem. Additionally, different types of mold discolor surfaces with black and/or green specks. Look for mold in bathrooms, windows, crawl spaces, air conditioners, ventilation systems, leaky roofs, attics and basements.

Why have I found mold in several areas?
All fungi, like mold, release spores that travel along air currents. Unless a mold-infested area is sealed off, the spores spread throughout a building. Outdoor mold spores can also cling to the surfaces of people, pets and objects.

Why does mold grow in air ducts?
Poor duct maintenance and moisture from humidity or plumbing, wall or roof leaks give Palm Bay mold spores the perfect dark habitat for growth. The experienced team at CompleteDKI.com use time-tested techniques to remove any mold growth and fix the source of the problem.

Can I use bleach to remove mold?
Liquid bleach is the wrong choice for several reasons: Bleach can't successfully penetrate all surfaces -- especially some porous materials -- and since it is wet it will help any missed mold regrow. Worse yet, bleach can hide a deeply rooted mold problem from a mold restoration and remediation firm like SERVPRO.

Do I need additional testing if I already know that I have mold in my home?
Testing determines the type of mold and the amount of cleaning that must be done to completely restore an area.

Can I use a DIY test kit?
Although DIY kits are inexpensive, they often provide false positive results. They also don't offer the data needed to determine the type of Palm Bay mold or the amount of spores in the air.

How can I remove mold growth and spores from my home?
The best way is to hire a licensed mold remediation firm. Only a qualified and licensed expert, such as SERVPRO, can evaluate the problem and perform the correct tasks to remove mold from the air and surfaces, clean the infested area and safeguard against future growth.

Understanding Mold

Confusion and misunderstanding surround the topic of mold and mold remediation. Some restoration businesses even make claims to remove all mold from a building. This is a fallacy. Mold spores occur naturally almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. These microscopic spores float along in the air and can enter a home or business through windows and HVAC systems. Consider these facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

SERVPRO of South and West Brevard

7/22/2013 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Team!

The SERVPRO of South and West Brevard team coming together for a group picture!