We Serve and are the Pro's

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Why You Should Call a Professional like SERVPRO

1. Each category of water is different

There are three categories of water: clean, gray, and black. Water falls into each category based on its source. Each source has different implications including safety precautions and cleanup needs. This means that just because a small flood at home may have water that is “clean”, the water can be potentially harmful, needing more than just a mop and some rags to clean.

2. More than the floors may be wet

If there is slight flooding in your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room, these areas most likely are surrounded by tile; they are also surrounded by building materials like cupboards or drywall. Drywall, unbeknownst to you, may become saturated with water and extremely heavy. The more water the drywall holds the more unstable it becomes, causing structural damage that you may not be aware of.

Electrical wires or appliances may have also taken on water, causing a high risk to homeowners as this may pose damage later on for these items.

3. You don't have the proper equipment

If a flood appears to be small and contained, there may not be a question as to the length of time the water has been apparent. Without properly vetting all surrounding areas and building materials, it is impossible to tell if a “small” flood was truly small and non-damaging. Homeowners lack the ability to make these assessments. Homeowners also lack the proper equipment to dry out areas that have experienced water damage. Even the smallest amount of moisture left, given the right environment, can pose the threat of mold damage.

When it comes to floods and accompanying water damage, leave the cleanup to the pros. Regardless of the size or area affected, water has the ability to permeate through many materials, locking moisture in where it should not exist. Call a local professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso to handle all of your water. We are here to Serve you and we are Professionals. We are locally owned and operated. We are SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso and we can be reached at 360-703-3884.

Not just water

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO water restoration technician has an extremely important job when a business or home is affected by excess water, sewage, moisture or fluid of some kind. Our certified professionals can quickly reverse the extensive damage that a flood, a pipe break or sewage backflow can cause, and try to save as many items as possible in the process. And when dealing with contaminated fluids, especially when it has pooled in the home, only trained and certified professional technicians should be allowed to manage the cleanup. Attempting to perform cleanup efforts without expert assistance can lead to injury or illness, both of which can be severe.

A SERVPRO certified water restoration technician is on call around the clock, except for those times when an entire community has been affected by a major disaster. As soon as a professional is on site, they will assess the situation and determine what items need immediate rescuing. If fluid has pooled in areas around the home, then pumps will be used to remove it.

The amount of damage water can cause is amazing, and often is underestimated by business owners and homeowners. Water always travels the path of least resistance. Excess moisture is bad enough, but when a business or home is flooded or hit with a plumbing disaster (like a burst pipe), the situation can quickly get out of hand. There’s a reason why these incidents are among the most expensive problems a homeowner can face. Contaminated water can create immediate structural problems.

Floods, sewage backflows, and other sources of contaminated fluid usually cause the worst damage. Dirty water is filled with all kinds of deadly substances, ranging from chemical residues to animal feces to parasites. Bacteria, viruses and fungi grow explosively in contaminated fluid.

This problem is compounded by the composition of most businesses and homes, which are filled with organic materials. Drywall, wood and the matter that is trapped in carpet fibers are just a few examples, and they can give pathogens room to grow. Within 48 hours, mold may begin creeping behind the walls and releasing spores. Any organic materials that have been soaked through by contaminated fluid will usually have to be destroyed.

We, SERVPRO, will dry the business or home quickly and apply antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents to all surfaces that had contact with the water. This ensures the family can return to a safe home, and not one harboring a collection of deadly pathogens. You can Trust SERVPRO at 360-703-3884.

Heat is a storm?

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

When talking about storms, the most common are always mentioned. Snow, rain and wind are the main ingredients for what seems to be the “most popular” types of storms. One ingredient that seems to get over looked at times is a heat storm, better known as a heat wave, and the damage it can cause.

According to Wikipedia, a heat wave is a period of excessively hot weather, which may be accompanied by high humidity. While some definitions vary, a heat wave is usually measured relative to the usual weather in the area and relative to normal temperatures for the season. There are many different ways a heat wave can affect you’re your locally owned SERVPRO may be able to help with a couple heat related issues, like the results of smoke damage to a house that was cause by a wildfire, that was caused by extreme heat in dry conditions. If a heat wave occurs during a drought, which dries out vegetation, it can contribute to bushfires and wildfires.

Heat waves can also cause power outages. Abnormally hot temperatures can cause electricity demand to increase during the peak summertime hours of 4 to 7 p.m. when air conditioners are straining to overcome the heat.

Heat waves can and do cause physical damages to roadways. Long periods of extreme heat can cause them to buckle and melt. It can cause water lines to burst, and power transformers to detonate, causing fires. Heat waves can also damage rail road’s, such as buckling and kinking rails, which can lead to slower traffic, delays, and even cancellations of service when rails are too dangerous to traverse by trains.

More serious and sad issues from heat are the Psychological and Sociological effects and Mortality. In addition to physical stress, excessive heat causes psychological stress, to a degree which affects performance, and is also associated with an increase in violent crime. High temperatures are associated with increased conflict both at the interpersonal level and at the societal level.

Heat waves are the most lethal type of weather phenomenon in the United States. According to Wikipedia, between 1992 and 2001, deaths from excessive heat in the United States numbered 2,190, compared with 880 deaths from floods and 150 from hurricanes. The average annual number of fatalities directly attributed to heat in the United States is about 400. The number of heat fatalities is likely highly underreported due to a lack of reports and misreports. Your SERVPRO is here to help you and our community. No matter the Storm, you can call us at 360-703-3884 and we will help..

Local, Is Why SERVPRO

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

From L to R back row: Mike Tim, Teressa, Owner Ryan, Braiden, Haili, Dave. Bottom row: Shannon, Linda, Martha, Hector.

Why SERVPRO? Why not SERVPRO? SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is a locally owned franchise based right here in Cowlitz County. We are part of the massive SERVPRO Corporate cleaning division that specializes in Fire & Water & Soot Cleanup & Restoration. There are many other services that we perform as well. They are, Mold Mitigation and Remediation, Content Clean Up, Electronic & Equipment Restoration. Pack Outs & Board Ups, Catastrophic Storm Response and Content Claim Inventory Service. 

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a proactive deep cleaning service we provide to help prevent the spreading of germs and pathogens that are found in viruses. We also perform Biohazard Crime Scene & Vandalism Clean up, Carpet Upholstery and Ceilings cleaning along with Walls & Hard Floors and Deodorization. All of which are Residential and Commercial.

Why SERVPRO? Because we are pros in servicing (the word SERVPRO) individuals who have came in to some bad luck at their home or business. Also, because we all live here, we all eat here, we all entertain here, and we are involved in and care for our community. The spouse of the owner is a school teacher here. The marketing/public relations rep is on many various boards, committees and is a Rotary member, as is the owner himself, here locally. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso cares about our community and gives back, and that attitude runs down to its employees.

As Consumers all of us select the companies we do business with based on trust and since 1967 SERVPRO corporate has built on that principle, and now today there are over 1800 nationwide franchises that are independently building their franchises based on that same principle, Trust. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is here to help you in your time of need. If you are in need, call us today at 360-703-3884 and lets talk and see if we can help you.

Backdraft of emotions

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

This setting is a backdraft of emotions

An accidental structure fire is very concerning for homeowners and property managers all year-round, and now that winter is here, it is a good time to make certain you are properly prepared. The rate of home fires rise during the winter. So it is important to be watchful. A few things you can do now to ensure the safety of your family.

1. Establish and practice a fire escape plan with all members of your home.
2. Guarantee that your smoke detectors are working.
3. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

Our fire technicians here at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso are highly trained in fire cleanup and restoration to handle your home, your contents, and air quality. Ensuring the cleanup is thorough and your family items are fully restored to their pre-fire conditions.

Structural damage from a fire can affect almost every aspect of a home, including floors, walls and ceilings and the first 48 hours after a fire can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. By performing initial testing, we can determine the severity of the damage and what equipment we will need to utilize for clean up restoration.

Using wet and dry cleaning equipment, we are able to restore many of your home’s contents during the process as well. This is often more cost-effective than replacing your items and allows you to keep your belongings intact. We can fully clean and deodorize many items, such as kitchen wares, furniture, collectibles, and much more

The lingering odors from a fire are not just a nuisance they can be dangerous too, making it vital that the air is scrubbed and purified properly following a fire. Thankfully, we have the technology and expertise to handle this for you, so you do not have to worry about the health of your family due to poor air quality in the home.

If you’ve been affected by a fire, SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso can help you recover. Give us a call right away to minimize furthering damage (360)703-3884.

Here to Help your Business Recover

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Team

Flooding, water damage and fire damage to a Cowlitz County commercial property can often be complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water or fire cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Fifty percent of commercial businesses that suffer a loss from a fire, water or some other type of disaster, never recover. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, call your locally owned SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso at 360-703-3884 and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a Fire & Water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification so you can be rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Forms of the Storm

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Some storms can be a visual thing of beauty and some storms can leave a person homeless with total loss of possessions. Worst yet, storms can take a persons life. There are many varieties and names for storms: Lighting storm, thunderstorm, blizzard, tornado(strong winds) tropical cyclone, windstorm, Hailstorms, icestorm(heavy freezing rain) and dust storms are probably the most common type storms in the United States.

According to Wikipedia, "a storm is any disturbed state of an environment or in an astronomical body's atmosphere especially affecting its surface, and strongly implying severe weather".

Storms are created when a center of low pressure develops with the system of high pressure surrounding it. This combination of opposing forces can create winds and result in the formation of storm clouds such as cumulonimbus.

Each region has its own type of storms. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we do not get the tornadoes like they do in the Mid-West and in the South. Here, in the PNW we get a wet with rain 230 plus days a year. With this in mind, SERVPRO has strategically placed 1700 plus franchises across the United States. Here in Longview Washington, you have a locally owned SERVPRO that is ready to help. Help you and our community when the time comes.

Winter Storm Warning

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Winter storms can be quite destructive to any size of residential or commercial property here in the Pacific Northwest. When a winter storm hits, it can significantly interrupt if not suspend your business operations. Winter storms can bring freezing rain, ice, snow, high winds, or a combination of these conditions, which can undoubtedly cause thousands of dollars of damage to your property if you not prepared.

~Clear out your gutters.

While it is important to regularly maintain your gutters, it is especially important to clear them out before a big storm. With the rain storm typically comes a downpour of leaves and other debris. If the gutters aren’t cleared out they are likely to clog and limit the water that can drain off of the roof.

~Regularly inspect and repair your roof.

Heavy precipitation can result in erosion and cracking. The real trouble starts when cracking occurs during heavy rains (or when heavy rains hit and expand an existing crack). This crack will let water into your building, leading to leaks, flooding, and mold. Inspecting your roof annually can prevent major damage.

~Maintain and inspect joints and windows.

Flashing, joints, sealant, windows, etc. Anywhere two planes or surfaces come together, there is potential for leaks. And where there are leaks, there can be mold. These leaks can be caused by the wear down of a material over time, shifting of the property or simply from daily use.

~Prevent frozen pipes.

Business owners should be concerned about frozen pipes as the weather turns cold. Insure the pipes in unheated spaces are properly insulated so that the water inside does not expand and burst. You will also need to keep the temperature on your thermostat set to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

~ Clearing storm drains.

Storm drains are in place to move excess water away from buildings, driveways, and walkways.  Although it is the cities job to maintain these, being watchful can protect you from flooding and water damage.

~ Power surges.

During inclement weather a power surge can  damage equipment, such as computers, fax machines, etc. Taking precautions here by unplugging devices till power is restored will help save you time and money.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is always ready to help if your property sustains storm, fire, or water damage. Visit our website www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com or (360)703-3884

Storm Damage Insurance Coverage

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

The rain is no stranger, to the residents of the Pacific Northwest. We experience heavy down pours and steady rain fall for the greater part of the year.

Water Damage can be ravaging to your home, whether you’re dealing with rain water invading your basement or a pipe burst from the upstairs bathroom. Addressing the damage quickly is important, but there are a few things you need to know about water damage prior to calling SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso.

The Highly-Trained Restoration Specialists here at SERVPRO put together a couple helpful tips to inform homeowners of Cowlitz County and surrounding areas:

~ Insurance policies won't cover every type of water damage.

Challengingly enough, most homeowner’s insurance policies are extremely specific about the types of damage they cover. Policies often times only cover damage caused by broken pipes or appliance failures but, generally, will not cover damage caused by natural disasters or rain water. If you’re concerned about your home’s risk for floods or live in an area where pooling water can affect your home, you may want to invest in an additional policy.

~ Report the Damage Quickly

Water may not always appear as a major problem, but it’s critical that you report the damage as soon as possible to your insurance company. The sooner the problem is reported, the faster your insurance agent can begin getting the home restored. In turn, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth throughout your property.

~ Contact a Professional Water damage and Restoration Company.

When it comes to water damage, many homeowners believe they can simply clean up the mess themselves. While this may be true for small leaks, it can present a major safety hazard. Water quality matters and the steps required to clean up water damage from an overflowing toilet or rain water from the ground outside differ from those used to clean up a burst pipe. Remember, contaminated water from the ground or sewer water from a toilet can contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.

Don’t let water destroy your home. Contact the water extraction experts at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as soon as you notice a problem and let the professionals handle your home’s restoration. For more information on their mold remediation and biohazard cleanup services, visit their website www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com/ and call (360)703-3884 to schedule an appointment

You are in Control

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

As you are aware, accidents of any kind can happen at any moment and water damage in your home or business can strike when you least expect it. When it does, do not let the situation control you. You make sure you control it. One way to do just that is to call in the pros. SERVPRO to be exact. SERVPRO has been working directly with many insurance companies for the past 45 years. Your insurance company is probably one. Now as a homeowner, when something happens in our home, our first response is to do something to start the process to make it better. So when an accident happens that results in water damage, here are some helpful tips to perform, after you call us and before we arrive.

• Shut off the water source if possible.
• Remove excess water by mopping.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• Do not use regular vacuum to remove water.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep away of areas where ceiling are sagging from retained water.
• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpeting.
• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature.
• Remove oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.

Performing these tasks could help further damage to your home. 

Your locally owned SERVPRO can be reached at (360) 703-3884

Fire Facts

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call SERVPRO of LONGVIEW/KELSO Today – 360-703-3884

Fire is never a desire

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

If a house or business sustains fire damage, proper cleanup is crucial as the ash, soot and water will wreak havoc on what remains.  It’s bad enough there was a fire, but the water and chemicals used to extinguish it can cause secondary damage.  The remnants will continue to do damage long after the flames are extinguished.

The average person will attempt conventional cleaning methods like renting a steam cleaner and using common cleaning agents available at the store.  Unfortunately, this will barely make an impact on the problem and could cause bigger issues.  Chemical agents could react with the residue and cause permanent damage, and in some cases, they may cause toxic fumes.  Fire damage cleanup is one of the most difficult jobs out there, and it should be left to a certified SERVPRO professional for the best results.

When selecting a firm that does the restoration, consider what type of training they have. Do they have health and safety certifications? Are they experienced in a wide range of repair? Do they have proof of proper insurance and licenses?  The company that has the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) fire and smoke restoration Certified Firm meets all of these expectations and conditions. An IICRC-certified firm at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso, understands the need for a quick response.  Immediate action is necessary because the longer the delay, the harder and more costly the job will be as reactions within the damaged material can continue to occur. The fire may be gone, but the ash, soot and smoke odors that remain can continue to do harm. We will use our knowledge of fire restoration to accurately test the damage and apply the proper repair techniques to bring the items back to preloss condition when possible.

Also, when hiring an IICRC certified firm you can be sure that they are up to date with the latest technologies and techniques. In order for these firms to keep their certification, they are required to take continuing education programs.  So when confronted with fire damage cleanup, choose an IICRC-certified professionals. Choose SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso. 360-703-3884

Certified SERVPRO

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Hire the company that will insure your home is properly restored SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884

The IICRC, or the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, is the non-profit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. Standards are important to the cleaning, inspection and restoration industries and your locally owned SERVPRO because they benefit public health, safety and the environment.

It's important when hiring a company that you make sure that the company, and employees have the proper training to ensure that the job is done to industry standards. The mission of the IICRC is to establish and advance globally recognized standards and certifications.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is an IICRC certified restoration service provider. The institute of inspection, cleaning, and restoration certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification. IICRC certified firms have the right to display the IICRC certified logo.

IICRC Certified Firms Must:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
• The IICRC Develops the Standards for the Restoration Industry.

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Certifications:

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Homeowners Insurance

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Our professional restoration staff will fully document the damage, and help you understand your policy coverage!

If you've recently experienced any type of fire or flood in your home, getting things back to the way they were can take time—and money.

Knowing what to do after a catastrophic event such as these many homeowners may feel hesitant. However, when you have the support of your home insurance policy and a trusted restoration company, you can save yourself from the stress and high expenses that are associated with water and fire damage repairs.

Since navigating restoration insurance claims can be complex, SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso wants to answer a few common questions homeowners have about the process.

5 FAQs about using Home Insurance for Water & Fire Damage Repairs:

Will Water & Fire Damage Repairs Be Covered By My Policy?

Most home insurance providers cover restoration work related to fire and water damage. Although, this damage typically has to be connected to an event that is covered by your policy—also known as a “peril.” For instance, plumbing emergencies and electrical fires may be acceptable perils, but floods may require additional coverage.

Will Putting Off Repairs Affect My Insurance Policy?

In some cases, fire and water damage may seem minor enough to put off repairs. But, if more damage occurs as a result of negligence, your insurance company may not cover those future claims. By staying proactive and making repairs as soon as possible, you can protect yourself against denied claims down the road.

Should I Call My Insurance Company Before the Restoration Company?

When you have a water and fire damage repair company in mind, it is often best to call them before reaching out to your insurance provider. These professionals will fully document the damage, making it easier to file an accurate claim. They will also provide the proactive care to keep your home safe, as well as prevent further damage.

Can I Choose My Own Restoration Provider?

If you do call your insurance provider first, they may recommend a company for your home repairs. While it’s perfectly acceptable to use these references, it is not required. In fact, it is your right as a policyholder to choose who repairs your property.

When Should I Pay Out-of-Pocket?

If your insurance deductible is higher than the cost of the repairs, it is generally best to pay out-of-pocket. In these instances, you would have been required to pay the whole price anyway without any coverage from your provider. Nonetheless, many water and fire restoration jobs will exceed the cost of the deductible.

In a perfect world, homeowners would always be able to avoid these situations—but accidents still happen.

Fortunately, it’s easy to stay prepared when you have SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso near by. Servicing everything from mold remediation to fire damage repairs, our restoration company will ensure you receive fast, expert care. Visit them online to learn more about their services or call (360) 703-3884 to request 24/7 emergency assistance.

The importance of a fire extinguisher

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

One could argue that fire extinguishers are just as important as the smoke alarm. Having a smoke and/or fire alarm in a home or business is very common but do you have a fire extinguisher in your home or business and know how to properly use it?

Being prepared is extremely important. Fire extinguishers are essential as they are the most commonly used device for fire protection. In many cases they're the first line of defense and can often contain or extinguish a fire, and prevent costly damages. 

They are often overlooked devices but they can be a key component in keeping you and your family safe and possibly alive during a fire emergency. Although they're only suitable for use on small fires, extinguishers are nonetheless a crucial piece of equipment in combating a home or workplace fire. Larger fires need the attendance of emergency services.

It's important that everyone in your household and your employees have the proper training and education to use a fire extinguisher. 

Do you have the proper type in your home, business, or other places that may require a certain one?

Here is a link of the five primary types of fire extinguishers, each designed to put out different kinds of fires. https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/extinguishers.html

A Few Key Tips Everyone Should Know:

• It's a good idea to have multiple fire extinguishers around in your home or business depending on the size.
• The kitchen, garage, main workspaces, and warehouses are all places that should have one.
• Although there are many different types for various classes of fires, it's important to provide the right type depending on your business. 
• A common ABC Extinguisher will put out just about any kind of fire except hot metal fires, in which case you would use aClass D.
• Fire extinguishers should be placed in a clear, un-cluttered, and opened area where everyone knows how to locate them.
• Extinguishers should always be up to date, tested annually, and properly inspected. 
• As always have your emergency fire escape plan ready and if the fire continues to grow despite your fire extinguishing efforts, exit and call 9-1-1 immediately. 

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is proud to serve in our community and we are always ready to help in the event of a fire. SERVPRO specializes in smoke and fire damage cleanup and restoration. We are locally owned and operated and can be reached at (360)703-3884.

Tips on preventing a Fire

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Heating the house, the holiday decoration, winter storms and burning candles all contribute to the increased risk of home fires during the winter months. Fires can be concerning for homeowners and property managers all year-round, but it is the winter months that are especially concerning so right now is a good time to make certain you are properly prepared. The rate of home fires rise during the winter. 

A few things you can do now to ensure the safety of your family.

1. Have two fire extinguishers in your home. One in the kitchen and one in the garage.
2. Establish and practice a fire escape plan with all members of your home.
3. Guarantee that your smoke detectors are working.
4. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

Our fire technicians here at SERVPRO are highly trained in fire restoration and cleanup. To handle your home, contents, and air quality. Ensuring the cleanup is thorough and your things are fully restored to their pre-fire conditions. Here are some of the cleaning and services we provide:

Structural Cleaning

Structural damage in a fire can affect almost every aspect of a home, including floors, walls and ceilings. By performing initial testing, we can determine the severity of the damage and what equipment we will need to utilize for restoration. We can provide restructuring, cleaning and even paint preparation for most surfaces in the home.

Content Cleaning

Using wet and dry cleaning equipment, we are able to restore many of your home’s contents during the process as well. This is often more cost-effective than replacing your items and allows you to keep your belongings intact. We can fully clean and deodorize many items, such as kitchen wares, furniture, collectibles, and much more.

Deodorization Services

The lingering odors from a fire are not just a nuisance they can be dangerous, too. Making it vital that the air is scrubbed and purified properly following a fire. Thankfully, we have the technology and expertise to handle this for you, so you do not have to worry about the health of your family due to poor air quality in the home.

If you’ve been affected by a fire, SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso can help you recover. Give us a call right away to minimize furthering damage (360)703-3884

Storm water coverage

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

The rain is no stranger to the residents of the Pacific Northwest, especially right now! We experience heavy down pours and steady rain fall in 8 of the 12 months.

Water Damage can be ravaging to your home, whether you’re dealing with rain water invading your basement or a pipe burst from the upstairs bathroom. Addressing the damage quickly is important and having the understanding of what you are covered, for the water damage, is also very important.

The Highly-Trained Restoration Specialists here at SERVPRO put together a couple helpful tips to inform homeowners of Cowlitz County and surrounding areas:

Insurance policies won't cover all water damage.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies are extremely specific about the types of damage they cover. Policies often times only cover damage caused by broken pipes or appliance failures and generally will not cover damage caused by natural disasters or rain water, also known as ground water. If you’re concerned about your home’s risk for floods or live in a area where pooling water can affect your home, you will need to contact your insurance agent soon and go over your homeowners policy. We understand budgets, we are all on one, but we highly recommend that you have a local insurance agent with local ties, an office where you can go sit face to face and go over your coverage’s.

Contact a Professional Water damage and Restoration Company.

When it comes to water damage, many homeowners believe they can simply clean up the mess themselves. While this may be true for small leaks, it can present a major safety hazard. Water quality matters and the steps required to clean up water damage from an overflowing toilet or rain water from the ground outside differ from those used to clean up a burst pipe. Remember, contaminated water from the ground or sewer water from a toilet can contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.

Don’t let water destroy your home. Contact the water extraction experts at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as soon as you notice a problem and let the professionals handle your home’s restoration. For more information on their mold remediation and biohazard cleanup services, visit their website https://www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com/ and call (360)703-3884 to schedule an appointment.

Report the Damage Quickly

Water may not always appear as a major problem, but it’s critical that you report the damage as soon as possible to your insurance company. The sooner the problem is reported, the faster your insurance agent can begin getting the home restored. In turn, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth throughout your property.

Rain and Your Ins. Policy

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

The rain is no stranger, to the residents of the Pacific Northwest. We experience heavy down pours and steady rain fall for the greater part of the year.

Water Damage can be ravaging to your home, whether you’re dealing with rain water invading your basement or a pipe burst from the upstairs bathroom. Addressing the damage quickly is important, but there are a few things you need to know about water damage prior to calling SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso.

The Highly-Trained Restoration Specialists here at SERVPRO put together a couple helpful tips to inform homeowners of Cowlitz County and surrounding areas:

Insurance policies won't cover all water damage.

Challengingly enough, most homeowners insurance policies are extremely specific about the types of damage they cover. Policies often times only cover damage caused by broken pipes or appliance failures but, generally, will not cover damage caused by natural disasters or rain water. If you’re concerned about your home’s risk for floods or live in a area where pooling water can affect your home, you may want to invest in an additional policy.

Report the Damage Quickly

Water may not always appear as a major problem, but it’s critical that you report the damage as soon as possible to your insurance company. The sooner the problem is reported, the faster your insurance agent can begin getting the home restored. In turn, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth throughout your property.

Contact a Professional Water damage and Restoration Company.

When it comes to water damage, many homeowners believe they can simply clean up the mess themselves. While this may be true for small leaks, it can present a major safety hazard. Water quality matters and the steps required to clean up water damage from an overflowing toilet or rain water from the ground outside differ from those used to clean up a burst pipe. Remember, contaminated water from the ground or sewer water from a toilet can contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.

Don’t let water destroy your home. Contact the water extraction experts at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as soon as you notice a problem and let the professionals handle your home’s restoration. For more information on their mold remediation and biohazard cleanup services, visit their website https://www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com/ and call (360)703-3884 to schedule an appointment.

We Are Certified

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

IICRC Logo

Standards are important to the cleaning, inspection and restoration industries and your locally owned SERVPRO because they benefit public health, safety and the environment.

It's important when hiring a company that you make sure that the company, and employees have the proper training to ensure that the job is done to industry standards. The mission of the IICRC is to establish and advance globally recognized standards and certifications.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is an IICRC certified restoration service provider. The institute of inspection, cleaning, and restoration certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification. IICRC certified firms have the right to display the IICRC certified logo.

IICRC Certified Firms Must:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
• The IICRC Develops the Standards for the Restoration Industry.

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Certifications:

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Business helping Business

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

We know the demands of running and maintaining a business and how an unforeseen disaster can cause a tremendous amount of chaos and eventual loss of revenue. Your local SERVPRO has a creditable reputation and are known for our fast and professional response to any size disaster. Our highly trained restoration staff can help guide you through the process and get you back to business.

Fire Damage Restoration

When your business is affected by fire or smoke damage, productivity can experience a significant loss. Water damage is also a common secondary loss when a fire occurs, due to the fire-fighting efforts. As a trusted leader in fire and water damage restoration SERVPRO has extensive training that's required. 

• Fire and Smoke Restoration
• Odor Control
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning
• Water Damage Restoration

Water Damage Restoration

Flooding and water damage seem to happen at the most inconvenient times. We have the expertise and equipment to properly restore any size of commercial or property loss. The water removal process is completed by our highly-trained technicians. Who will document the drying process to ensure it’s complete. 

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,800 Franchises
• Highly Trained Water Damage Restoration Specialists

Mold Remediation

Mold can spread quickly through a property if left untreated. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso can respond quickly, working to first contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of the building. Next, we will begin the remediation process, working safely and effectively to manage the situation. We have the training, experience, and equipment to contain the mold infestation and remediate it to preloss condition.

• Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Highly Trained Mold and Water Damage Restoration Specialist 

Cleaning Service

• Vandalism
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floor
• Odor Removal and Deodorization

Giving back to Businesses

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

A business owner is always seeking ways to improve and to protect their investment. When you experience any type of damage to your property it can be exceedingly expensive and the structure being the most susceptible to damage.

There’s never a convenient time for flooding or storm damage to strike your business. Wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding can occur suddenly and cause substantial damage in a matter of minutes. We are here for all of your restoration needs.

As a leader in disaster clean up, restoration and prevention, the professionals at SERVPRO want to help protect your business. One of the ways we can help you do this is through a free Emergency Ready Profile. The creation of an emergency profile allows you to work with a qualified representative to develop a plan of action for when disaster strikes.

What is an ERP?

An Emergency Ready Profile is a file created for your business that contains an emergency plan of action. The floor plan of your business that identifies where the breaker panel(s) are located. Where the water turn-off(s) are located and pictures to help visualize. All your vendors contact information.

The ERP helps provide you with a level of security that many do not have after experiencing a disaster. This profile allows you to minimize any prolonged business interruption by ensuring that SERVPRO is ready and prepared to help with a simple phone call. After assessing your facility, identifying a line of command, and establishing an emergency profile, you will know that when disaster strikes, a qualified professional has your back and knows just what to do and who to contact.

Does It Matter for Your Business?

The research doesn’t lie: After a disaster occurs, many businesses — about 50 percent — have to close down. Having an Emergency Ready Profile in place allows SERVPRO to take action immediately following a disaster. By taking fast action, you can limit business interruption, meaning that you can get back to doing what you do best as quickly as possible. 

How Can You Get Started?

You can get started creating your emergency profile by contacting a representative at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso or logging onto the ERP app. Once you have initiated contact, a representative will reach out to find out the best time to schedule your facility’s free assessment.

An ERP is an excellent way to protect your business and your interests. You can call a local representative at 360-703-3884 for help in creating your business's Emergency Ready Profile today.

Zero Cost Plan

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

An Emergency Ready Profile, ERP, is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster and is a “plan for it now” way to know what to do and what to do and who to contact in advance. An ERP for you business is actually a very important key to timely mitigation and will help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

The Emergency READY Profile that is conducted by a SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso here in our area and solely by SERVPRO as a whole, puts a business in an advantage. The ERP is a no-cost assessment to your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds thus giving you a great value at no cost. A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will take a little time to complete, depending on the size of the building and can be performed with a facilities manager or department head.

 An ERP is a great guide to help businesses get back to functioning, making revenue and getting employees back to work and into the building following a disaster. It will help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. An ERP will save you time. It will also establish SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

SERVPRO is an industry leader in mitigation and restoration that the insurance industry has respected and chosen for more than 45 years.

Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.” Give us a call today and set up your zero-cost ERP (360)703-3884.

Not a Spring Clean

12/6/2021 (Permalink)

Crawlspace damage

I am in a local business networking group. There are 47 members in this group. One member, Hunter, who owns an inspection business that inspects houses before they go up for sale or to help close the sale. Hunter and I were having a conversation and he was describing some of the crawlspaces and attics that he has inspected in the recent weeks for homeowners wanting to sell their homes. He went on to tell us how there were a few where the homeowner, due to their age, had not be in the crawlspace and/or attic in years. This is a common theme across the United States. Homeowners who are getting older may not be in condition to crawl on the ground and inspect and this is why his business is thriving. It is of massive importance that we as homeowners do a walk around, attic and crawlspace included, at least two times a year. If we can’t, then we need to hire someone to do it or ask a friend or delegate it to a family member. Whatever we need to do, it needs to get done. Homeowner “maintenance’ is a term insurance agents and adjustors look at, at times, when a claim is filed.

Now that we are heading into the harsh winter months in the Pacific Northwest, we can all expect heavy rains and freezing temperatures.  Here is what to look for when conducting an inspection:

• Displaced or damaged insulation.
• Torn or missing crawlspace vapor barrier (plastic)
• Musty odors, unpleasant smells.
• Mold spots on insulation or wood beams.
• Cracks and leaks in the pipes.
• Rusting of medal beams and water pipes.
• Presence of rodents/pests.
• Signs or previous flooding and/or water damage.

Regularly inspecting and maintaining your attic and crawl space can be incredibly beneficial. It can improve the air quality of your home because about 40% of your homes air comes from the crawl space. It also can extend the life of your homes structure and save you money on your energy bill!

Like I stated above if we as homeowners can’t perform the inspection then we need to hire out. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is professionally trained and ready to help! They offer a variety of cleaning and restoration services to help with maintaining your crawlspace and attic.

Commercial Fire

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

Do you know of a commercial business that has suffered a fire loss and recovered from it? Personally, has your business experienced a commercial property fire? It does not matter if it a home or a business, having a fire interruption can be very emotionally stressful and can have a tremendous financial impact. It can be ravaging, daunting and excessively overwhelming. So get in touch with insurance agent and make sure you are properly covered!

We know that fire damage is devastating, but it's still not over when the fire is out. Every moment spent out of the office costs your business productivity and is accumulating loss of revenue. On top of fire, smoke, and soot damage that your business may endure, water damage caused by the efforts of extinguishing the fire similarly to water damage, fire and smoke damage worsens the longer you wait to call a professional.  

Smoke and water do more damage than most people realize. Besides the complete removal of damaged walls, floors and contents, some of the services we offer are:

• Complete and thorough itemization of your belongings
• Dry and sealed storage
• Cleaning and sanitizing
• Professional deodorization
• Removal of smoke and odor

If you have a fire emergency, don't wait to call SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso. We are fully equipped and ready to handle any size loss.   

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Locally Owned and Operated 
• Highly Trained Fire Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry by the Insurance industry for more than 45 years.

Professional fire and smoke mitigation is essential to restore your commercial property to its pre-fire condition. Let us help get your business “back in business” (360)703-3884!

Mold. Commercial Style

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

If your commercial business is located in Washington or Oregon, it can easily become a breeding ground for mold growth. Even with regular inspection and maintenance, mold problems can still occur. Excess moisture and dust can linger in hidden places and combine forces to cause a fungal infestation that can only be remedied by mold remediation experts. Here are the top four places you might find mold hiding, in your commercial building.

1. Carpet:
Carpet has many crevices where mold spores can hide and many surfaces to which it is easy for mold to adhere. While you can't prevent all spills and can't always control how well people clean up after themselves when they do spill, you can dehumidify the room by increasing air flow to the area. This can help dry out the carpet and prevent mold growth.

2. Ceiling Tiles:
Ceiling tiles are often made of porous material, which allows mold to take root. Watch out for water damage in ceiling tiles and get it fixed as soon as possible. It only takes a day or two for mold to start to grow in places where leaks have occurred. Because the growth usually starts on the side of the tile that is hidden, it can become a big problem before it is noticed.

3. Walls:
Walls present the same difficulty that ceiling tiles do. The moisture problem contributing to the mold issue is often inside the wall and thus can become significantly moldy long before it is detected. When this happens, it is best to let remediation experts handle the problem to ensure it is resolved completely.

4. Air Ducts:
The dust in air ducts can attract mold spores and give them a place to grow. When coupled with high humidity, the mold problem gets larger. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the HVAC system is necessary to detect or prevent mold problems in the ducts.

If your business has suffered a water damage in the past, a proper dry out is vital.  You can't always prevent mold growth. You can, however as the business owner, can be proactive. Walk and inspect your building at least once a month. If you see a spot of moisture or a dark shadow in a place it should not be, call the bright green clean up team at SERVPRO Longview/Kelso. We will come out and perform a moisture inspection with our meters. We will perform a visual mold inspection and if need be complete mold remediation.

Tis' the Tips for the Season

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

Winter holidays are a time for families and friends to get together. But that also means a greater risk for fire. Following a few simple tips will ensure a happy and fire-safe holiday season.

Holiday decorating:

• Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors. Holiday Entertaining
• Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about your home fire escape plan.
• Keep children and pets away from lit candles.
• Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
• Ask smokers to smoke outside. Remind smokers to keep their smoking materials with them so young children do not touch them.
• Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding.

Before heading out, or to bed:

Blow out lit candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Turn off all light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.

Not So Fun Facts

• More than one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles. • More than two of every five decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source.

And Remember, SERVPRO of LONGVIEW/KELSO is here if the unfortunate happens.

Knowledge is Power

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Drying with drying mats

When SERVPRO is hired to mitigate a water damage job, the customer is counting on us to be the expert. We need to be knowledgeable about all the latest drying techniques, content management, occupant safety, air quality, etc. And one way to show that we know what we are doing and talking about is by staying on top of all aspects of the project. Here are just a few of the questions that we ask ourselves on every water job:

• What other contractors need to be involved in this project? Plumbers, flooring, drywall, etc. If even needed.
• How many items have been permanently damaged? 

• Can I explain and justify each piece of equipment we’re using on the job? 

• When should the amount of air movement be scaled back or removed?

• Are the techs using moisture meters properly to get the most accurate measurements and have I made sure they’re using the same meter throughout the life of the job?

  These are just a few questions that someone without disaster restoration training wouldn’t even think to ask. But since the industry constantly evolves and improves, we at SERVPRO do not try to get by with only what we first learned when you got into this business, in 1967. We regularly perform in-house training, watch the latest SERVPRO corporate video training seminars and attend workshops and trade shows when available. Knowledge, after all, is power. When we at SERVPRO are confident, you the customer and client, can be confident that the job will be completed correctly.

Benefits of gutter cleaning:

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Gutter Clean Out

The colder temperatures are coming to a region near you and gutter cleaning time is here. Spending time outside during the winter can be fun and exciting but to some it is not ideal, especially if it's to perform yard work and maintenance. 

Harsh weather is often accompanied by strong winds and drastic rain fall, which is why, during the dry days of late fall or early winter, it’s a great time to clean and check your roof and gutters. Performing these tasks is very important, to ensure your home is safe from flood and water damage.

To help keep water away from your roof and foundation, gutters need to be cleared of any clogs or blockage made by leaves and debris. It's recommended to clean your gutters at least 1-4 times a year, basically once a quarter, and more frequently if you have overhanging trees. Also, clean clogged gutters after big storms. Do not neglect this!

Benefits of gutter cleaning:

1. To prevent water damage to your home.
2. Avoid nesting areas for termites, birds, and insects.
3. Avert mold and bacteria.
4. Prevent destruction of expensive landscaping.
5. Stop ice buildup and damage.
6. Maintain the value and beauty of your home. 

Tips when cleaning your gutters:

• Wear a shirt with long sleeves, and rubber gloves.
• Have a good extendable ladder available. Standoff stabilizers are ideal to keep the ladder from damaging the gutter.
• Use a small plastic scoop to remove gunk (a kid’s sand shovel works great).
• Lay down a plastic tarp, to catch the debris.
• After you’ve cleared the muck, flush the gutters and downspouts with a garden hose (Also, a great way to spot any leaks).

However, we can't always prevent the inevitable, which is why SERVPRO is always prepared for all of your restoration emergencies. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso Specializing in Fire & Water Damage cleanup and restoration (360)703-3884

Fall into Winter Heat Cleaning

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

The bright colorful changes on the tips of the trees signifies the change of the season. The falling leaves in Fall are so pretty but make a mess. The crackling sound from the wood in our fireplaces and wood/pellet stoves confirms the change in temperatures. Fireplaces and pellet stoves can really make a mess, of everything.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there has been a significant reduction of houses sold in recent years that has a fireplace. However, during the winter months, fireplaces and wood/pellet stoves are used greatly to heat many homes in our neighborhoods and across America which is why we want to remind everyone how important it is to maintain and properly operate your stoves and fireplaces.

In the United States, behind kitchen fires, the 2nd leading cause of home fires are from heating systems. Fireplaces and Wood/pellet stoves are a part of those statistics. Preventative maintenance and annually inspections are very important. A yearly chimney sweep by a professional is a must! An inspection of the exterior stone, mortar and piping is also of extream importance. Also, check your windows and door seals for drafts. It is amazing the amount of heat that can be lost due to cracks or gaps. Proper maintenance will help keep your heating system operating safely and you will get the best return of warmth.

Before enjoying your fireplace, correctly dispose of ashes. One inch of ash will cause a fire to make more smoke. It's important to never place ash in a garbage bin indoors/or out. To properly clean and dispose of ash, you have to make sure it is cooled before shoveling it into a metal container with a lid. Also, remember to never store it near your home or firewood. 

Consider the type of wood you are burning and where it is being stored. Green or young wood have higher moister content and cause a lot of smoke and more build up of creosote. https://www.doctorflue.com/blog/what-is-creosote/ It's best to use seasoned or dried wood  that has been split for a safer fire. Storing your firewood in a dry place is also something to remember either a wood shed or garage to avoid moister. 

A few safety tips to remember: 

• Always have a fire extinguisher near your fireplace/stove.
• Start fire properly.
• Install a chimney cap.
• Never store matches, lighters, or other fire starters within 3ft of the wood-stove or fireplace.
• Keep area clear of flammable items; Drapes, carpet, furniture and newspaper ext.
• Never overload a fire or burn other debris.
• Supervise small children and pets.
• Extinguish fire before bed. 

A small flame can get out of control within 30 seconds. So it's very important to be sure all smoke/ carbon monoxide detectors are working and everyone knows your homes fire escape plan.

We understand how damaging chimney fires can be to your home. If you ever experience a home fire, and need some help and guidance, give us a call (360)703-3884. 

Specializing in Fire & Water-Cleanup & Restoration. SERVPRO of Longview/kelso is locally owned and operated.

We're always ready to help!

Key water loss questions

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Sheetrock cut out

When SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso receives the call for a water loss or emergency, We will ask you a few key questions like, "Where is the water coming from" and "How much of the area has it affected". Here at SERVPRO from the initial phone call, to when our technicians arrive. We are assessing the damage and categorizing the type of water and classifications. Assessing the severity of the damage is important to determine what is needed to start the restoration and water removal process. A few of the various reasons we categorize is: 1- To know the level of care our technicians must take to safely work. 2- Preparing what equipment or tools are needed to quickly respond to the job. And 3- To best advise you of other safety measures you may need to take and helpful advise to minimize damage if possible.

The 3 Categories and what they mean:

• Category 1water/clean water: A clean source like a broken water line, appliances, sink overflow ext. The water in category 1 in other words is considered sanitary and is not yet a substantial risk.
• Category 2 water/ gray water: Water is significantly contaminated and can be harmful if consumed. Sources that may cause this type of water damage include toilets, sump pumps, and sewage.
• Category 3 water/ black water: Unsanitary water that contains bacteria, untreated sewage, harsh chemicals and microbes. Flooding rivers and sewage backups are a couple sources that may cause this water damage but standing water and storm surges also are highly contaminated too. 

We also use different classifications to help determine the extent of the water damage that you may have experienced. This is why we ask "How much has it affected". It's important because it helps us know what drying techniques to use, the amount of equipment to set-up and how long the drying process may take.

4 Water classifications:

• Class 1:The least harmful because affected materials absorb only small amounts of the water and involves less absorption and evaporation. Commonly only a small portion of a room is affected.
• Class 2:  A larger amount of water that has a fast rate of evaporation. Which means carpets and pads are affected, however water has not wicked up the walls more then 24 inches. Water damage repairs are more difficult. 
• Class 3: The water in this class has the fastest rate of evaporation and the greatest amount of water. It is commonly from overhead sources or sprinkler system. It can affect ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet/pad and subflooring. Class 3 is when the entire area is affected.
• Class 4: We often use this class for specialty drying situations. It affects materials with low permeance and porosity and can have longer drying times and methods. Types of damage can affect hardwood flooring, plaster and concrete. 

We are prepared to help, no matter the category or class of your water emergency. We have seen it all! 

SERVPRO of Longview/kelso is always ready when you need us. Trusted, local and ready to restore.

Your water damage needs are not going to wait, so why should you. Give us a call at (360)703-3884 and let our trained and certified water technicians do the rest

House Fires Suck

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

House Fires Sucks

Great! The cold winter months are here, said no one ever. Thermostats are being cranked up, wood piles are filled up and as we sit nestled in our homes all snug in our blankets, SERVPRO would like to discuss a few safety tips with you before you go get that space heater out to warm up that one deep back room in your house. 

Space heaters are popular for several reasons. They're small and compact, considerably cost efficient, and they can keep your room warm. However, they are also one of the leading causes of fires during the winter and are responsible for nearly 80% of home heating fires.

If you are going to use any sort of portable heaters in your home, we would like to share some important safety tips with you.

Essential safety precautions: 

• Always plug your heaters directly into the wall (Never us extension cords or power strips).
• Keep anything that can burn at least 3ft away including blankets, furniture, drapes and electronics ext. 
• Insure your smoke alarms/ carbon monoxide alarms are working properly.
• Do not allow children or pets near.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Avoid placing them on carpet or area rugs.
• Turn off heaters when unattended and before bed.

When improperly used, space heaters can carry a very high price if a fire happens. 

Extension cords and/or power strips are not designed to handle the high current flow needed for space heaters and can over heat and cause a fire. Although they are small the amount of electricity used to power them can overload the circuit and cause the extension cord to overheat.

Several of the newer models have a tip over switch, touch sensor, over heat protection, and also a longer power cord. Space heaters are one of those items that don't often get replaced and although it is recommended because the older models can potentially be more dangerous. Evan the newer models of heaters can be dangerous if used improperly. 

In an unfortunate instant, tragedy can happen. Always follow safely and be responsible.

As always if you or someone you know experiences a house fire we are always here to help. 

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso Fire & water - Cleanup & Restoration 1425 Alabama St. Suit M Longview, WA 98632 (360)703-3884

Frozen

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen House

Some parts of the country are coming into the time of year where the thermometer drops, snow starts falling from the sky and yes ice forms on many things. In the winter months we come across water damages that are due to pipes that freeze, then when they thaw, they pop and burst. Sure these accidents are caused by the season, but one can say that they are also caused by neglect. Pipes in the crawl space, basement, attic (if your house is on a concrete slab) are at risk of bursting if they are not properly insulated, thus resulting in extensive Water Damage and costly repairs. 

As the water in your pipes slowly freezes, the pressure will begin to increase. If the pressure is allowed to build, then the pipes will not be able to contain the frozen water within and can cause the pipes to break, crack and burst. Here are a few tips to help protect your pipes: Obviously insulate your pipes. Allow faucets to slowly drip, to minimize pressure build up and keep water moving. Open cabinet doors, to allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing. Maintain pipes and routinely inspect to avoid unknown water leaks. Always keep the thermostat on even when you are not home.

It's important to winterize your home before winter sets in. Foam pipe insulation is an inexpensive way to protect and prevent freezing.

The locally owned SERVPRO in your area understands that not all disasters can be avoided. A leaky or burst pipe can occur anywhere and at anytime. Our highly trained water restoration technicians are fully prepared to respond to emergency services 24-Hours, Including holidays.

Immediate action is considerably important in limiting any water damage. We have the expertise and equipment to professionally restore your property. Give us a call SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884. We'll conduct a advanced water-inspection, complete extraction, and use our high-end drying equipment and techniques to restore your home. We are “ready for whatever happens.”

Commercial Mold

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings are huge investments, which would make sense why finding the right building to invest in requires a lot of vetting. Along with inspecting the square footage for any type of water damage that might have happened in the past, the plumbing will also need to be inspected. Where ever there could have been a moisture issue, mold would have also the opportunity for growth. We want our commercial businesses to grow but mold growth is definitely a growth we want to stop. We her at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso provide a service that can remedy mold, but first an inspection will need to be preformed.

Even though SERVPRO has offered mold inspections for a few decades, professional mold inspections in commercial buildings are a fairly new concept. Health issues brought about by mold was not advocated for until the 90s, when a light was shed on the possible consequences of mold infestations. Now, homeowners and business owners alike are meticulously inspecting for mold when purchasing a building, as they should be.

Mold can grow on virtually any surface, so long as it is presented with a damp enough climate to persist. Mold spores can be extremely apparent via smell or sight, or it can only be detected through specific testing. Mold survives on or “eats” away at materials, causing damage and change to the look, smell, or structure of whatever it is affecting. Structural changes can include the reliability or strength for a building. For an investor or building owner, this could raise working hazards and building safety.

Allowing employees to work within mold-ridden spaces is another costly situation. Due to mold’s potential health risk, employers and building owners should be weary of allowing employees, visitors, tenants or vendors to inhabit the building. Even if the mold is quarantined to one specific area, it still has the potential to travel through HVAC systems, affecting other areas.

If you are purchasing or currently own a commercial building, a mold inspection should be mandated. A commercial mold remediation company such as your locally owned SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso can perform visual assessments, sampling, and mold remediation strategies. Even if mold is not found, remediation companies can provide insight into future issues. Any situation that is a potential playground for moisture accumulation and mold growth will be addressed by a professional. This includes a leaking roof, structural characteristics that may allow water into the building, building maintenance issues or more.

Scheduling pre-move in mold inspections as well as implementing routine inspections, especially in Southwest Washington, is vital to your building and business.

Hire a Professional

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

Why You Should Call a Professional like SERVPRO

1. Each category of water is different

There are three categories of water: clean, gray, and black. Water falls into each category based on its source. Each source has different implications including safety precautions and cleanup needs. This means that just because a small flood at home may have water that is “clean”, the water can be potentially harmful, needing more than just a mop and some rags to clean.

2. More than the floors may be wet

If there is slight flooding in your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room, these areas most likely are surrounded by tile; they are also surrounded by building materials like cupboards or drywall. Drywall, unbeknownst to you, may become saturated with water and extremely heavy. The more water the drywall holds the more unstable it becomes, causing structural damage that you may not be aware of.

Electrical wires or appliances may have also taken on water, causing a high risk to homeowners as this may pose damage later on for these items.

3. You don't have the proper equipment

If a flood appears to be small and contained, there may not be a question as to the length of time the water has been apparent. Without properly vetting all surrounding areas and building materials, it is impossible to tell if a “small” flood was truly small and non-damaging. Homeowners lack the ability to make these assessments. Homeowners also lack the proper equipment to dry out areas that have experienced water damage. Even the smallest amount of moisture left, given the right environment, can pose the threat of mold damage.

When it comes to floods and accompanying water damage, leave the cleanup to the pros. Regardless of the size or area affected, water has the ability to permeate through many materials, locking moisture in where it should not exist. Call a local professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso to handle all of your water. 360-703-3884

Why Not SERVPRO?

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

From L to R back row: Mike, Tim Teressa, Owner Ryan, Braiden Haili, Dave. Bottom row: Shannon, Linda, Martha, Hector.

Why SERVPRO? Why not SERVPRO? SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is a locally owned franchise based right here in Cowlitz County. We are part of the massive SERVPRO Corporate cleaning division that specializes on Fire & Water & Soot Cleanup & Restoration. There are many other services that we perform as well. They are, Mold Mitigation and Remediation, Content Clean Up, Electronic & Equipment Restoration. Pack Outs & Board Ups, Catastrophic Storm Response and Content Claim Inventory Service.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a proactive deep cleaning service we provide to help prevent the spreading of germs and pathogens that are found in viruses. We also perform Biohazard Crime Scene & Vandalism Clean up, Carpet Upholstery and Ceilings cleaning along with Walls & Hard Floors and Deodorization. All of which are Residential and Commercial.

Why SERVPRO? Because we are pros in servicing (the word SERVPRO) individuals who have came in to some bad luck at their home or business. Also, because we all live here, we all eat here, we all entertain here, and we are involved in and care for our community. The spouse of the owner is a school teacher here. The marketing/public relations rep is on many various boards, committees and is a Rotary member, as is the owner himself, here locally. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso cares about our community and gives back, and that attitude runs down to its employees.

As Consumers all of us select the companies we do business with based on trust and since 1967 SERVPRO corporate has built on that principle, and now today there are over 1800 nationwide franchises that are independently building their franchises based on that same principle, Trust. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is here to help you in your time of need.

Help with Your Insurance Claim

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? Well, because when the unthinkable happens and your worst nightmare comes true with a house fire or a flood, it is so good to know that help is available. Different key groups play important key roles to ensure you can either stay in or return to your home quickly. Firefighters, disaster cleanup and restoration professionals, and your insurance company will do their job to make the process is as pain free as possible. If you choose an experienced, reputable and trusted clean up and restoration team such as SERVPRO, they’ll make sure your insurance claim goes smoothly.

SERVPRO Works for You!

When you need an emergency response cleanup and repair team, there are plenty of choices. But few can do what SERVPRO offers. The team will do the following for you:

• Provide excellent customer service.
• Work effectively with your insurance company to process claims
• Use best practices and techniques to clean up and restore your home.
• Come on the scene in a timely manner and complete the job in a timely manner.

Importance of Insurance Coverage

Even small fires or floods can cause costly damage to your home. While you may not be able to replace all items, you can have peace of mind knowing that you shouldn’t have to front the bill. This is why you pay for and have insurance. Claim services shouldn’t have to be difficult to work with. You can make things even easier when you hire the professionals at SERVPRO. They know how to work in tandem with your insurance agent. Because of the team’s efficiency and reliability, the insurance company can process your claims quickly and without issues.

What the Insurance Company Wants

Your insurance agent or insurance adjuster will ask for details of the incident and the extent of the damage. The repair and restoration team will conduct a thorough investigation and will assess the damage and what needs to happen to repair or replace it. The team will share these findings with your insurance company.

Don’t waste any time following a flood or fire. Call you locally owned SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360) 703-3884 and your insurance agent for claim services immediately.

Nasty unsafe Water

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO water restoration technician has an extremely important job when a business or home is affected by excess water, moisture or fluid. Our certified professionals can quickly reverse the extensive damage that a flood, a pipe break or sewage backflow can cause, and try to save as many items as possible in the process. And when dealing with contaminated fluids, especially when it has pooled in the home, only trained and certified professional technicians should be allowed to manage the cleanup. Attempting to perform cleanup efforts without expert assistance can lead to injury or illness, both of which can be severe.

A SERVPRO certified water restoration technician is on call around the clock, except for those times when an entire community has been affected by a major disaster. As soon as a professional is on site, they will assess the situation and determine what items need immediate rescuing. If fluid has pooled in areas around the home, then pumps will be used to remove it.

The amount of damage water can cause is amazing, and often is underestimated by business owners and homeowners. Water always travels the path of least resistance. Excess moisture is bad enough, but when a business or home is flooded or hit with a plumbing disaster (like a burst pipe), the situation can quickly get out of hand. There’s a reason why these incidents are among the most expensive problems a homeowner can face. Contaminated water not only creates immediate structural problems, it can leave serious health and biological threats behind after it has been removed.

Floods, sewage backflows, and other sources of contaminated fluid usually cause the worst damage. Dirty water is filled with all kinds of deadly substances, ranging from chemical residues to animal feces to parasites. Bacteria, viruses and fungi grow explosively in contaminated fluid, and severe health risks, like salmonella and hepatitis, are common in flood waters.

This problem is compounded by the composition of most businesses and homes, which are filled with organic materials. Drywall, wood and the matter that is trapped in carpet fibers are just a few examples, and they can give pathogens room to grow. Within 48 hours, mold may begin creeping behind the walls and releasing spores. Any organic materials that have been soaked through by contaminated fluid will usually have to be destroyed.

We, SERVPRO, will dry the business or home quickly and apply antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents to all surfaces that had contact with the water. This ensures the family can return to a safe home, and not one harboring a collection of deadly pathogens. You can Trust SERVPRO.

Heat, the other type of Storm

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

When talking about storms, the most common are always mentioned. Snow, rain and wind are the main ingredients for what seems to be the “most popular” types of storms. One ingredient that seems to get over looked at times is a heat storm, better known as a heat wave, and the damage it can cause.

According to Wikipedia, a heat wave is a period of excessively hot weather, which may be accompanied by high humidity. While some definitions vary, a heat wave is usually measured relative to the usual weather in the area and relative to normal temperatures for the season. There are many different ways a heat wave can affect you’re your locally owned SERVPRO may be able to help with a couple heat related issues, like the results of smoke damage to a house that was cause by a wildfire, that was caused by extreme heat in dry conditions. If a heat wave occurs during a drought, which dries out vegetation, it can contribute to bushfires and wildfires. 

Heat waves can also cause power outages. Abnormally hot temperatures can cause electricity demand to increase during the peak summertime hours of 4 to 7 p.m. when air conditioners are straining to overcome the heat. 

Heat waves can and do cause physical damages to roadways. Long periods of extreme heat can cause them to buckle and melt. It can cause water lines to burst, and power transformers to detonate, causing fires. Heat waves can also damage rail road’s, such as buckling and kinking rails, which can lead to slower traffic, delays, and even cancellations of service when rails are too dangerous to traverse by trains.

More serious and sad issues from heat are the Psychological and Sociological effects and Mortality. In addition to physical stress, excessive heat causes psychological stress, to a degree which affects performance, and is also associated with an increase in violent crime. High temperatures are associated with increased conflict both at the interpersonal level and at the societal level.

Heat waves are the most lethal type of weather phenomenon in the United States. According to Wikipedia, between 1992 and 2001, deaths from excessive heat in the United States numbered 2,190, compared with 880 deaths from floods and 150 from hurricanes. The average annual number of fatalities directly attributed to heat in the United States is about 400. The number of heat fatalities is likely highly underreported due to a lack of reports and misreports. Your SERVPRO is here to help you and our community. No matter the Storm.

Types of Storms

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Some storms can be a visual thing of beauty and some storms can leave a person homeless with total loss of possessions. Worst yet, storms can take a persons life. There are many varieties and names for storms: Lighting storm, thunderstorm, blizzard, tornado(strong winds) tropical cyclone, windstorm, Hailstorms, icestorm(heavy freezing rain) and dust storms are probably the most common type storms in the United States.

According to Wikipedia, "a storm is any disturbed state of an environment or in an astronomical body's atmosphere especially affecting its surface, and strongly implying severe weather".

Storms are created when a center of low pressure develops with the system of high pressure surrounding it. This combination of opposing forces can create winds and result in the formation of storm clouds such as cumulonimbus.

Each region has its own type of storms. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we do not get the tornadoes like they do in the Mid-West and in the South. Here, in the PNW we get a wet with rain 230 plus days a year. With this in mind, SERVPRO has strategically placed 1700 plus franchises across the United States. Here in Longview Washington, you have a locally owned SERVPRO that is ready to help. Help you and our community when the time comes.

House Fire

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

This setting is a backdraft of emotions.

An accidental structure fire is very concerning for homeowners and property managers all year-round, and now that winter is here, it is a good time to make certain you are properly prepared. The rate of home fires rise during the winter. So it is important to be watchful. A few things you can do now to ensure the safety of your family.

1. Establish and practice a fire escape plan with all members of your home.
2. Guarantee that your smoke detectors are working.
3. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

Our fire technicians here at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso are highly trained in fire cleanup and restoration to handle your home, your contents, and air quality. Ensuring the cleanup is thorough and your family items are fully restored to their pre-fire conditions.

Structural damage from a fire can affect almost every aspect of a home, including floors, walls and ceilings and the first 48 hours after a fire can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. By performing initial testing, we can determine the severity of the damage and what equipment we will need to utilize for clean up restoration.

Using wet and dry cleaning equipment, we are able to restore many of your home’s contents during the process as well. This is often more cost-effective than replacing your items and allows you to keep your belongings intact. We can fully clean and deodorize many items, such as kitchen wares, furniture, collectibles, and much more

The lingering odors from a fire are not just a nuisance they can be dangerous too, making it vital that the air is scrubbed and purified properly following a fire. Thankfully, we have the technology and expertise to handle this for you, so you do not have to worry about the health of your family due to poor air quality in the home.

If you’ve been affected by a fire, SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso can help you recover. Give us a call right away to minimize furthering damage (360)703-3884.

Business Property Help

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding, water damage and fire damage to a Cowlitz County commercial property can often be complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water or fire cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Fifty percent of commercial businesses that suffer a loss from a fire, water or some other type of disaster, never recover. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, call your locally owned SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso at 360-703-3884 and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a Fire & Water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification so you can be rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Ready for the Storm

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

Winter storms can be quite destructive to any size of residential or commercial property here in the Pacific Northwest. When a winter storm hits, it can significantly interrupt if not suspend your business operations. Winter storms can bring freezing rain, ice, snow, high winds, or a combination of these conditions, which can undoubtedly cause thousands of dollars of damage to your property if you not prepared.

~Clear out your gutters.

While it is important to regularly maintain your gutters, it is especially important to clear them out before a big storm. With the rain storm typically comes a downpour of leaves and other debris. If the gutters aren’t cleared out they are likely to clog and limit the water that can drain off of the roof.

~Regularly inspect and repair your roof.

Heavy precipitation can result in erosion and cracking. The real trouble starts when cracking occurs during heavy rains (or when heavy rains hit and expand an existing crack). This crack will let water into your building, leading to leaks, flooding, and mold. Inspecting your roof annually can prevent major damage.

~Maintain and inspect joints and windows.

Flashing, joints, sealant, windows, etc. Anywhere two planes or surfaces come together, there is potential for leaks. And where there are leaks, there can be mold. These leaks can be caused by the wear down of a material over time, shifting of the property or simply from daily use.

~Prevent frozen pipes.

Business owners should be concerned about frozen pipes as the weather turns cold. Insure the pipes in unheated spaces are properly insulated so that the water inside does not expand and burst. You will also need to keep the temperature on your thermostat set to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

~ Clearing storm drains.

Storm drains are in place to move excess water away from buildings, driveways, and walkways.  Although it is the cities job to maintain these, being watchful can protect you from flooding and water damage.

~ Power surges.

During inclement weather a power surge can  damage equipment, such as computers, fax machines, etc. Taking precautions here by unplugging devices till power is restored will help save you time and money.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is always ready to help if your property sustains storm, fire, or water damage. Visit our website www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com or (360)703-3884

Storm Damage Coverage?

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

The rain is no stranger, to the residents of the Pacific Northwest. We experience heavy down pours and steady rain fall for the greater part of the year.

Water Damage can be ravaging to your home, whether you’re dealing with rain water invading your basement or a pipe burst from the upstairs bathroom. Addressing the damage quickly is important, but there are a few things you need to know about water damage prior to calling SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso.

The Highly-Trained Restoration Specialists here at SERVPRO put together a couple helpful tips to inform homeowners of Cowlitz County and surrounding areas:

~ Insurance policies won't cover all water damage.

Challengingly enough, most homeowners insurance policies are extremely specific about the types of damage they cover. Policies often times only cover damage caused by broken pipes or appliance failures but, generally, will not cover damage caused by natural disasters or rain water. If you’re concerned about your home’s risk for floods or live in a area where pooling water can affect your home, you may want to invest in an additional policy.

~ Report the Damage Quickly

Water may not always appear as a major problem, but it’s critical that you report the damage as soon as possible to your insurance company. The sooner the problem is reported, the faster your insurance agent can begin getting the home restored. In turn, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth throughout your property.

~ Contact a Professional Water damage and Restoration Company.

When it comes to water damage, many homeowners believe they can simply clean up the mess themselves. While this may be true for small leaks, it can present a major safety hazard. Water quality matters and the steps required to clean up water damage from an overflowing toilet or rain water from the ground outside differ from those used to clean up a burst pipe. Remember, contaminated water from the ground or sewer water from a toilet can contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.

Don’t let water destroy your home. Contact the water extraction experts at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as soon as you notice a problem and let the professionals handle your home’s restoration. For more information on their mold remediation and biohazard cleanup services, visit their website https://www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com/ and call (360)703-3884 to schedule an appointment

Control the Water Damage

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

The Owner Cleaning up some Water Damage

As you are aware, accidents of any kind can happen at any moment and water damage in your home or business can strike when you least expect it. When it does, do not let the situation control you. You make sure you control it. One way to do just that is to call in the pros. SERVPRO to be exact. SERVPRO has been working directly with many insurance companies for the past 45 years. Your insurance company is probably one. Now as a homeowner, when something happens in our home, our first response is to do something to start the process to make it better. So when an accident happens that results in water damage, here are some helpful tips to perform, after you call us and before we arrive.

• Shut off the water source if possible.
• Remove excess water by mopping.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• Do not use regular vacuum to remove water.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep away of areas where ceiling are sagging from retained water.
• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpeting.
• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature.
• Remove oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.

Performing these tasks could help further damage to your home. 

Your locally owned SERVPRO can be reached at (360) 703-3884

Fire Facts

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call SERVPRO of LONGVIEW/KELSO Today – 360-703-3884

No Fire Desire!

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire

If a house or business sustains fire damage, proper cleanup is crucial as the ash, soot and water will wreak havoc on what remains.  It’s bad enough there was a fire, but the water and chemicals used to extinguish it can cause secondary damage.  The remnants will continue to do damage long after the flames are extinguished.

The average person will attempt conventional cleaning methods like renting a steam cleaner and using common cleaning agents available at the store.  Unfortunately, this will barely make an impact on the problem and could cause bigger issues.  Chemical agents could react with the residue and cause permanent damage, and in some cases, they may cause toxic fumes.  Fire damage cleanup is one of the most difficult jobs out there, and it should be left to a certified SERVPRO professional for the best results.

When selecting a firm that does the restoration, consider what type of training they have. Do they have health and safety certifications? Are they experienced in a wide range of repair? Do they have proof of proper insurance and licenses?  The company that has the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) fire and smoke restoration Certified Firm meets all of these expectations and conditions. An IICRC-certified firm at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso, understands the need for a quick response.  Immediate action is necessary because the longer the delay, the harder and more costly the job will be as reactions within the damaged material can continue to occur. The fire may be gone, but the ash, soot and smoke odors that remain can continue to do harm. We will use our knowledge of fire restoration to accurately test the damage and apply the proper repair techniques to bring the items back to preloss condition when possible.

Also, when hiring an IICRC certified firm you can be sure that they are up to date with the latest technologies and techniques. In order for these firms to keep their certification, they are required to take continuing education programs.  So when confronted with fire damage cleanup, choose an IICRC-certified professionals. Choose SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso. 360-703-3884

"Need to Know" regarding Homeowner Ins.

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Our professional restoration staff will fully document the damage, and help you understand your policy coverage!

If you've recently experienced any type of fire or flood in your home, getting things back to the way they were can take time—and money.

Knowing what to do after a catastrophic event such as these many homeowners may feel hesitant. However, when you have the support of your home insurance policy and a trusted restoration company, you can save yourself from the stress and high expenses that are associated with water and fire damage repairs.

Since navigating restoration insurance claims can be complex, SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso wants to answer a few common questions homeowners have about the process.

5 FAQs about using Home Insurance for Water & Fire Damage Repairs:

Will Water & Fire Damage Repairs Be Covered By My Policy?

Most home insurance providers cover restoration work related to fire and water damage. Although, this damage typically has to be connected to an event that is covered by your policy—also known as a “peril.” For instance, plumbing emergencies and electrical fires may be acceptable perils, but floods may require additional coverage.

Will Putting Off Repairs Affect My Insurance Policy?

In some cases, fire and water damage may seem minor enough to put off repairs. But, if more damage occurs as a result of negligence, your insurance company may not cover those future claims. By staying proactive and making repairs as soon as possible, you can protect yourself against denied claims down the road.

Should I Call My Insurance Company Before the Restoration Company?

When you have a water and fire damage repair company in mind, it is often best to call them before reaching out to your insurance provider. These professionals will fully document the damage, making it easier to file an accurate claim. They will also provide the proactive care to keep your home safe, as well as prevent further damage.

Can I Choose My Own Restoration Provider?

If you do call your insurance provider first, they may recommend a company for your home repairs. While it’s perfectly acceptable to use these references, it is not required. In fact, it is your right as a policyholder to choose who repairs your property.

When Should I Pay Out-of-Pocket?

If your insurance deductible is higher than the cost of the repairs, it is generally best to pay out-of-pocket. In these instances, you would have been required to pay the whole price anyway without any coverage from your provider. Nonetheless, many water and fire restoration jobs will exceed the cost of the deductible.

In a perfect world, homeowners would always be able to avoid these situations—but accidents still happen.

Fortunately, it’s easy to stay prepared when you have SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso near by. Servicing everything from mold remediation to fire damage repairs, our restoration company will ensure you receive fast, expert care. Visit them online to learn more about their services or call (360) 703-3884 to request 24/7 emergency assistance.

SERVPRO is Certified!

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

Hire the company that will insure your home is properly restored SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884

The IICRC, or the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, is the non-profit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. Standards are important to the cleaning, inspection and restoration industries and your locally owned SERVPRO because they benefit public health, safety and the environment.

It's important when hiring a company that you make sure that the company, and employees have the proper training to ensure that the job is done to industry standards. The mission of the IICRC is to establish and advance globally recognized standards and certifications.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is an IICRC certified restoration service provider. The institute of inspection, cleaning, and restoration certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification. IICRC certified firms have the right to display the IICRC certified logo.

IICRC Certified Firms Must:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
• The IICRC Develops the Standards for the Restoration Industry.

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Certifications:

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Covered from the Storm?

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

The rain is no stranger, to the residents of the Pacific Northwest. We experience heavy down pours and steady rain fall in 8 of the 12 months.

Water Damage can be ravaging to your home, whether you’re dealing with rain water invading your basement or a pipe burst from the upstairs bathroom. Addressing the damage quickly is important and having the understanding of what you are covered, for the water damage, is also very important.

The Highly-Trained Restoration Specialists here at SERVPRO put together a couple helpful tips to inform homeowners of Cowlitz County and surrounding areas:

Insurance policies won't cover all water damage.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies are extremely specific about the types of damage they cover. Policies often times only cover damage caused by broken pipes or appliance failures and generally will not cover damage caused by natural disasters or rain water, also known as ground water. If you’re concerned about your home’s risk for floods or live in a area where pooling water can affect your home, you will need to contact your insurance agent soon and go over your homeowners policy. We understand budgets, we are all on one, but we highly recommend that you have a local insurance agent with local ties, an office where you can go sit face to face and go over your coverage’s.

Contact a Professional Water damage and Restoration Company.

When it comes to water damage, many homeowners believe they can simply clean up the mess themselves. While this may be true for small leaks, it can present a major safety hazard. Water quality matters and the steps required to clean up water damage from an overflowing toilet or rain water from the ground outside differ from those used to clean up a burst pipe. Remember, contaminated water from the ground or sewer water from a toilet can contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.

Don’t let water destroy your home. Contact the water extraction experts at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as soon as you notice a problem and let the professionals handle your home’s restoration. For more information on their mold remediation and biohazard cleanup services, visit their website https://www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com/ and call (360)703-3884 to schedule an appointment.

Report the Damage Quickly

Water may not always appear as a major problem, but it’s critical that you report the damage as soon as possible to your insurance company. The sooner the problem is reported, the faster your insurance agent can begin getting the home restored. In turn, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth throughout your property.

Fire Extinguisher

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

One could argue that fire extinguishers are just as important as the smoke alarm. Having a smoke and/or fire alarm in a home or business is very common but do you have a fire extinguisher in your home or business and know how to properly use it?

Being prepared is extremely important. Fire extinguishers are essential as they are the most commonly used device for fire protection. In many cases they're the first line of defense and can often contain or extinguish a fire, and prevent costly damages. 

They are often overlooked devices but they can be a key component in keeping you and your family safe and possibly alive during a fire emergency. Although they're only suitable for use on small fires, extinguishers are nonetheless a crucial piece of equipment in combating a home or workplace fire. Larger fires need the attendance of emergency services.

It's important that everyone in your household and your employees have the proper training and education to use a fire extinguisher. 

Do you have the proper type in your home, business, or other places that may require a certain one?

Here is a link of the five primary types of fire extinguishers, each designed to put out different kinds of fires. https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/extinguishers.html

A Few Key Tips Everyone Should Know:

• It's a good idea to have multiple fire extinguishers around in your home or business depending on the size.
• The kitchen, garage, main workspaces, and warehouses are all places that should have one.
• Although there are many different types for various classes of fires, it's important to provide the right type depending on your business. 
• A common ABC Extinguisher will put out just about any kind of fire except hot metal fires, in which case you would use aClass D.
• Fire extinguishers should be placed in a clear, un-cluttered, and opened area where everyone knows how to locate them.
• Extinguishers should always be up to date, tested annually, and properly inspected. 
• As always have your emergency fire escape plan ready and if the fire continues to grow despite your fire extinguishing efforts, exit and call 9-1-1 immediately. 

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is proud to serve in our community and we are always ready to help in the event of a fire. SERVPRO specializes in smoke and fire damage cleanup and restoration. We are locally owned and operated and can be reached at (360)703-3884.

House fire tips

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Here to Help

Heating the house, the holiday decoration, winter storms and burning candles all contribute to the increased risk of home fires during the winter months. Fires can be concerning for homeowners and property managers all year-round, but it is the winter months that are especially concerning so right now is a good time to make certain you are properly prepared. The rate of home fires rise during the winter. 

A few things you can do now to ensure the safety of your family.

1. Have two fire extinguishers in your home. One in the kitchen and one in the garage.
2. Establish and practice a fire escape plan with all members of your home.
3. Guarantee that your smoke detectors are working.
4. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

Our fire technicians here at SERVPRO are highly trained in fire restoration and cleanup. To handle your home, contents, and air quality. Ensuring the cleanup is thorough and your things are fully restored to their pre-fire conditions. Here are some of the cleaning and services we provide:

Structural Cleaning

Structural damage in a fire can affect almost every aspect of a home, including floors, walls and ceilings. By performing initial testing, we can determine the severity of the damage and what equipment we will need to utilize for restoration. We can provide restructuring, cleaning and even paint preparation for most surfaces in the home.

Content Cleaning

Using wet and dry cleaning equipment, we are able to restore many of your home’s contents during the process as well. This is often more cost-effective than replacing your items and allows you to keep your belongings intact. We can fully clean and deodorize many items, such as kitchen wares, furniture, collectibles, and much more.

Deodorization Services

The lingering odors from a fire are not just a nuisance they can be dangerous, too. Making it vital that the air is scrubbed and purified properly following a fire. Thankfully, we have the technology and expertise to handle this for you, so you do not have to worry about the health of your family due to poor air quality in the home.

If you’ve been affected by a fire, SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso can help you recover. Give us a call right away to minimize furthering damage (360)703-3884.

Winter's thaw

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Crazy to think, but snow is weight and when freezes and turns into ice, the weight multiplies. Too much snow and/or ice on a roof can cause it to collapse. Also, roof leaks may occur when the snow or ice starts to thaw causing water to drip into your living space. Making a plan to protect your home from damage caused by this can be beneficial.

Here are a few ways to prevent damage to your roof, basement, crawlspace and sidewalk:

Roof:

How much snow can your roof handle?

Flat and low-slope roofs accumulate more snow and ice, while melting snow runs off of steep sloped roofs. Ice and snow also tend to pile up on porches and places next to a taller section of the house, especially during high winds. Unless the roof structure is damaged or decayed, most residential roofs can hold 20lbs per square foot of snow before they become stressed.

The best way to prevent damage is to remove snow from roofs, covered patios, carports and awnings. 

Basement, Attics, and crawl space

Once you notice water damage, repair rooms promptly to prevent mold from growing.

• On the roof check for loose or missing shingles.
• Check the attic, basement, or crawlspace for leaks, signs of moisture damage, and standing water.
• Clean and clear the gutters and ensure they are functioning properly.
• Check siding, windows and doors to ensure no areas have come loose or that water has seeped in.

Sidewalk

Homeowners are legally obligated to clear their sidewalks of ice and snow but while your out there it's a good time to check that the nearest storm drain is clear of debris, because when everything melts it can potentially cause flooding.

If you experience any type of water damage, simply call SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884. We will happily answer your question. Some questions may require us to look at it, and we can do that too. We are here to help. We hope you all have a safe and warm winter!

Homeowners Insurance

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have homeowners insurance? Do you have enough insurance to cover you in the event of fire or water damage?

You've probably heard it time and time again: your home is one of the largest financial investments you'll make in your lifetime but it's also an investment that's vulnerable to numerous risks. Home insurance offers peace of mind, with homeowners insurance, you can sleep a little sounder at night knowing that you have a veritable safety net if anything ever happens to your largest investment.

Coverage can include temporary housing after a disaster.

If your home is rendered uninhabitable after a fire, flood or say a brutal hailstorm, additional living expense coverage could help pay for temporary living costs while your home is being restored. These costs may include hotel expenses or interim housing, food, laundry, dry cleaning and even storage space.

A homeowners insurance policy covers the cost to restore the home's structure if the damage falls under the scope of the policy. The amount of coverage on the policy determines how much the insurance company will pay toward rebuilding the house, so you want to make sure that amount of your home covers far exceeds what the home is worth and how much you owe on it, if it is not paid for. The insurance company should calculate the amount of necessary coverage for you. By insuring the structure of your home, you are protecting yourself financially should damage occur.

• Pays to replace belongings or have them professionally cleaned/restored.

A standard home policy also covers your belongings in the event of serious damage. Even if you feel like you don't own much, replacing all your belongings would add up quickly. You need a homeowners policy so you don't have to go without the necessities and luxuries that you have inside your home., including various valuable, expensive, and important belongings such as documents, jewelry, clothing, appliances, and furniture.

• Fulfills mortgage contract.

Many homeowners carry a mortgage on their homes. If you are one of those mortgage-carrying homeowners, your contract likely requires a homeowners insurance policy. The lender has a financial liability in your home, which is the reason for requiring insurance. Most companies will place an insurance policy on your home if you don't have your own homeowners policy, so skipping out isn't an option. 

When your home gets damaged, the emotional and financial strain of rebuilding your house and reinstalling the contents is painful, and difficult to do alone. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso has a great understanding of this and will work closely with you and  your insurance company every step of the process. 

If you've experienced any unforeseen circumstances that have affected your home, don't delay on contacting SERVPRO (360)703-3884.

ERP

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

An Emergency Ready Profile, ERP, is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster and is a “plan for it now” way to know what to do and what to do and who to contact in advance. An ERP for you business is actually a very important key to timely mitigation and will help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

The Emergency READY Profile that is conducted by a SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso here in our area and solely by SERVPRO as a whole, puts a business in an advantage. The ERP is a no-cost assessment to your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds thus giving you a great value at no cost. A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will take a little time to complete, depending on the size of the building and can be performed with a facilities manager or department head.

 An ERP is a great guide to help businesses get back to functioning, making revenue and getting employees back to work and into the building following a disaster. It will help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. An ERP will save you time. It will also establish SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

SERVPRO is an industry leader in mitigation and restoration that the insurance industry has respected and chosen for more than 45 years.

Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.” Give us a call today and set up your zero-cost ERP (360)703-3884.

Services to Help Your Business

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

At your local SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso we offer a variety of resources and services for all types of commercial businesses. Whether it is a cleanup of a Fire or Water Emergency, Vandalism, Mold Remediation, or general cleaning, we have you covered! 

We know the demands of running and maintaining a business and how an unforeseen disaster can cause a tremendous amount of chaos and eventual loss of revenue. Your local SERVPRO has a creditable reputation and are known for our fast and professional response to any size disaster. Our highly trained restoration staff can help guide you through the process and get you back to business.

Fire Damage Restoration

When your business is affected by fire or smoke damage, productivity can experience a significant loss. Water damage is also a common secondary loss when a fire occurs, due to the fire-fighting efforts. As a trusted leader in fire and water damage restoration SERVPRO has extensive training that's required. 

• Fire and Smoke Restoration
• Odor Control
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning
• Water Damage Restoration

Water Damage Restoration

Flooding and water damage seem to happen at the most inconvenient times. We have the expertise and equipment to properly restore any size of commercial or property loss. The water removal process is completed by our highly-trained technicians. Who will document the drying process to ensure it’s complete. 

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
• Highly Trained Water Damage Restoration Specialists

Mold Remediation

Mold can spread quickly through a property if left untreated. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso can respond quickly, working to first contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of the building. Next, we will begin the remediation process, working safely and effectively to manage the situation. We have the training, experience, and equipment to contain the mold infestation and remediate it to preloss condition.

• Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Highly Trained Mold and Water Damage Restoration Specialist 

Cleaning Service

• Vandalism
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floor
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Drapes and Blinds

Zero cost assessment

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

A business owner is always seeking ways to improve and to protect their investment. When you experience any type of damage to your property it can be exceedingly expensive and the structure being the most susceptible to damage.

There’s never a convenient time for flooding or storm damage to strike your business. Wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding can occur suddenly and cause substantial damage in a matter of minutes. We are here for all of your restoration needs.

As a leader in disaster clean up, restoration and prevention, the professionals at SERVPRO want to help protect your business. One of the ways we can help you do this is through a free Emergency Ready Profile. The creation of an emergency profile allows you to work with a qualified representative to develop a plan of action for when disaster strikes.

What is an ERP?

An Emergency Ready Profile is a file created for your business that contains an emergency plan of action. The floor plan of your business that identifies where the breaker panel(s) are located. Where the water turn-off(s) are located and pictures to help visualize. All your vendors contact information.

The ERP helps provide you with a level of security that many do not have after experiencing a disaster. This profile allows you to minimize any prolonged business interruption by ensuring that SERVPRO is ready and prepared to help with a simple phone call. After assessing your facility, identifying a line of command, and establishing an emergency profile, you will know that when disaster strikes, a qualified professional has your back and knows just what to do and who to contact.

Does It Matter for Your Business?

The research doesn’t lie: After a disaster occurs, many businesses — about 50 percent — have to close down. Having an Emergency Ready Profile in place allows SERVPRO to take action immediately following a disaster. By taking fast action, you can limit business interruption, meaning that you can get back to doing what you do best as quickly as possible. 

How Can You Get Started?

You can get started creating your emergency profile by contacting a representative at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso or logging onto the ERP app. Once you have initiated contact, a representative will reach out to find out the best time to schedule your facility’s free assessment.

An ERP is an excellent way to protect your business and your interests. You can call a local representative for help in creating your business's Emergency Ready Profile today.

Inspection Time!

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

What your crawlspace should not look like.

I co-host a weekly Chamber radio talk show and we had a guest on yesterday who performs home inspections. He seemed to be a very educated nice man, whose name is John and is a Veteran of the United States Army (Thank You). John was describing some of the crawlspaces and attics that he has inspected in the recent weeks for homeowners wanting to sell their homes. He went on to tell us how there were a few where the homeowner, due to their age, had not be in the crawlspace and/or attic in years. This is a common theme across the United States. Homeowners who are getting older may not be in condition to crawl on the ground and inspect and this is why his business is thriving. It is of massive importance that we as homeowners do a walk around, attic and crawlspace included, at least two times a year. If we can’t, then we need to hire someone to do it or ask a friend or delegate it to a family member. Whatever we need to do, it needs to get done. Homeowner “maintenance’ is a term insurance agents and adjustors look at, at times, when a claim is filed.

Now that we are heading into the harsh winter months in the Pacific, we can all expect heavy rains and freezing temperatures.  Here is what to look for when conducting an inspection:

• Displaced or damaged insulation.
• Torn or missing crawlspace vapor barrier (plastic)
• Musty odors, unpleasant smells.
• Mold spots on insulation or wood beams.
• Cracks and leaks in the pipes.
• Rusting of medal beams and water pipes.
• Presence of rodents/pests.
• Signs or previous flooding and/or water damage.

Regularly inspecting and maintaining your attic and crawl space can be incredibly beneficial. It can improve the air quality of your home because about 40% of your homes air comes from the crawl space. It also can extend the life of your homes structure and save you money on your energy bill!

Like I stated above if we as homeowners can’t perform the inspection then we need to hire out. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is professionally trained and ready to help! They offer a variety of cleaning and restoration services to help with maintaining your crawlspace and attic.

Christmas Safety Tips

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Welcome December from SERVPRO

Winter holidays are a time for families and friends to get together. But that also means a greater risk for fire. Following a few simple tips will ensure a happy and fire-safe holiday season.

Holiday decorating:

• Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors. Holiday Entertaining
• Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about your home fire escape plan.
• Keep children and pets away from lit candles.
• Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
• Ask smokers to smoke outside. Remind smokers to keep their smoking materials with them so young children do not touch them.
• Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding.

Before heading out, or to bed:

Blow out lit candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Turn off all light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.

Not So Fun Facts

• More than one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles. • More than two of every five decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source.

And Remember, SERVPRO of LONGVIEW/KELSO is here if the unfortunate happens.

Drying Methods Change Daily

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Contractors that work on construction projects closely follow blueprints which tell them exactly how a job is to be completed. But with water mitigation, things aren’t as cut and dried. The way one restoration contractor completes a job may be decidedly different from the way you may handle one due to current local weather conditions, although both have similar damage. For instance, while some parts of the country may be deluged with water, drought conditions persist in other areas. So, the manner of restorative dehumidification and drying that are applied in these regions may differ.
SERVPROs goal is to dry a structure as quickly as possible. To do so, we’ll need to dehumidify at a pace that’s equal to or greater than the amount of evaporation. In order to accomplish that, dehumidifiers, air movers and/or an exchange of drier air to replace the humid atmosphere will be needed. That leaves three drying choices:

1. Open Drying: If the outside air is dryer than inside, using this method gets dry air circulating by opening windows and doors that will allow fresh, dryer air inside to assist in drying. We’ll employ air movers to circulate the drier air. This also speeds up the drying process. If the humidity is low enough, dehumidifiers may not even be necessary.
2. Closed Drying: If the outside air has a higher specific humidity, then we’ll probably want to use this system where the windows and doors are closed and we will use dehumidifiers, air movers and dry heat to accelerate evaporation.
3. Combination Drying: With low outside humidity, we will double up our efforts by using both open and closed drying systems together. This system makes use of both natural and mechanical elements that accelerate the drying process, opening and closing the windows and doors as needed.

If there’s low outside humidity but the temperature is below 70° F, then either use a closed system or add heat that'll encourage evaporation. But whatever the case, there are many factors that can affect what we ultimately decide to do, such as major changes in the weather, security issues, customer preferences, etc.

These are just a few techniques our trained and certified technicians learn. Independent franchise owners have a common responsibility to make sure their techs are certified and trained the SERVPRO way.

Yah, gutter cleaning

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

The colder temperatures are coming to a region near you and gutter cleaning time is here. Spending time outside during the winter can be fun and exciting but to some it is not ideal, especially if it's to perform yard work and maintenance. 

Harsh weather is often accompanied by strong winds and drastic rain fall, which is why, during the dry days of late fall or early winter, it’s a great time to clean and check your roof and gutters. Performing these tasks is very important, to ensure your home is safe from flood and water damage.

To help keep water away from your roof and foundation, gutters need to be cleared of any clogs or blockage made by leaves and debris. It's recommended to clean your gutters at least 1-4 times a year, basically once a quarter, and more frequently if you have overhanging trees. Also, clean clogged gutters after big storms. Do not neglect this!

How to clean your gutters:

• Wear a shirt with long sleeves, and rubber gloves.
• Have a good extendable ladder available. Standoff stabilizers are ideal to keep the ladder from damaging the gutter.
• Use a small plastic scoop to remove gunk (a kid’s sand shovel works great).
• Lay down a plastic tarp, to catch the debris.
• After you’ve cleared the muck, flush the gutters and downspouts with a garden hose (Also, a great way to spot any leaks).

Benefits of gutter cleaning:

1. To prevent water damage to your home.
2. Avoid nesting areas for termites, birds, and insects.
3. Avert mold and bacteria.
4. Prevent destruction of expensive landscaping.
5. Stop ice buildup and damage.
6. Maintain the value and beauty of your home. 

However, we can't always prevent the inevitable, which is why SERVPRO is always prepared for all of your restoration emergencies. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso Specializing in Water Damage cleanup and restoration (360)703-3884!

Commercial Fire Info

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

A Commercial business is engulfed in flames

Has your business or commercial property experiences a fire? Do you know of a commercial business that has suffered a fire loss and recovered from it? It does not matter if it a home or a business, having a fire interruption can be very emotionally stressful and can have a tremendous financial impact. It can be ravaging, daunting and excessively overwhelming. So get in touch with insurance agent and make sure you are properly covered!

We know that fire damage is devastating, but it's still not over when the fire is out. Every moment spent out of the office costs your business productivity and is accumulating loss of revenue. On top of fire, smoke, and soot damage that your business may endure, water damage caused by the efforts of extinguishing the fire similarly to water damage, fire and smoke damage worsens the longer you wait to call a professional.  

Smoke and water do more damage than most people realize. Besides the complete removal of damaged walls, floors and contents, some of the services we offer are:

• Complete and thorough itemization of your belongings
• Dry and sealed storage
• Cleaning and sanitizing
• Professional deodorization
• Removal of smoke and odor

If you have a fire emergency, don't wait to call SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso. We are fully equipped and ready to handle any size loss.   

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Locally Owned and Operated 
• Highly Trained Fire Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry by the Insurance industry for more than 45 years.

Professional fire and smoke mitigation is essential to restore your commercial property to its pre-fire condition. Let us help get your business “back in business” (360)703-3884!

Commercial Mold

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Sheetrock cut down hall

If your commercial business is located in Washington or Oregon, it can easily become a breeding ground for mold growth. Even with regular inspection and maintenance, mold problems can still occur. Excess moisture and dust can linger in hidden places and combine forces to cause a fungal infestation that can only be remedied by mold remediation experts. Here are the top four places you might find mold hiding, in your commercial building.

1. Carpet:
Carpet has many crevices where mold spores can hide and many surfaces to which it is easy for mold to adhere. While you can't prevent all spills and can't always control how well people clean up after themselves when they do spill, you can dehumidify the room by increasing air flow to the area. This can help dry out the carpet and prevent mold growth.

2. Ceiling Tiles:
Ceiling tiles are often made of porous material, which allows mold to take root. Watch out for water damage in ceiling tiles and get it fixed as soon as possible. It only takes a day or two for mold to start to grow in places where leaks have occurred. Because the growth usually starts on the side of the tile that is hidden, it can become a big problem before it is noticed.

3. Walls:
Walls present the same difficulty that ceiling tiles do. The moisture problem contributing to the mold issue is often inside the wall and thus can become significantly moldy long before it is detected. When this happens, it is best to let remediation experts handle the problem to ensure it is resolved completely.

4. Air Ducts:
The dust in air ducts can attract mold spores and give them a place to grow. When coupled with high humidity, the mold problem gets larger. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the HVAC system is necessary to detect or prevent mold problems in the ducts.

If your business has suffered a water damage in the past, a proper dry out is vital.  You can't always prevent mold growth. You can, however as the business owner, can be proactive. Walk and inspect your building at least once a month. If you see a spot of moisture or a dark shadow in a place it should not be, call the bright green clean up team at SERVPRO Longview/Kelso. We will come out and perform a moisture inspection with our meters. We will perform a visual mold inspection and if need be complete mold remediation.

Restoring Your Commercial Property

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO vehicles parked in front of senior living facility.

Water damages, big or small, that effect commercial properties in Cowlitz County are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup, such as the break room refrigerators water supply line sprang a leak or a large scale event like an upstairs toilet ran all through the night sending hundreds of gallons of water through the ceiling down to the rooms below, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionally trained and certified technicians strive to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and work diligently to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. We understand that just like every residential house is different, so are commercial buildings. Floor plans, building materials, stored product are just a few to be named. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPROs corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Restoring Commercial Business

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Disaster Recovery Team get set up outside a local Hospital after thousands of gallons of water flooding in from an over worked outside drain.

Did you know that a commercial property is commonly at a higher risk of experiencing different types of damages than a residential home? Good news, SERVPRO does and when a commercial building is affected by a disaster, they’ll need a commercial restoration company with experience and resources to return the property to its preloss condition fast. 

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso has a considerable amount of experience in residential and commercial restoration services. Our team of experts offers a variety of services such as:

• Commercial fire damage restoration
• Commercial water damage restoration
• Commercial mold damage remediation
• Commercial storm damage restoration

Our professionals have the training and equipment needed to restore your commercial business, after common issues with minimal interruption to your daily operations if possible. SERVPRO also provides disaster planning to ensure that your property is protected in case future damage occurs!

At SERVPRO, we offer 24/7 commercial restoration services for damage caused by water, fire, smoke, mold, storms, and other disasters

What makes SERVPRO Restoration different from other commercial restoration businesses? We offer multiple services through one point of contact. This means you only need one number to reach our emergency services mitigation, contents cleaning, insurance claims assistance, and disaster planning teams. You can depend on us for additional commercial damage services like cost savings and online emergency ready planning.

SERVPRO has great dedication, resourcefulness, and outstanding customer service. Our franchise organization is proud to provide fast, high-quality cleanup and restoration services to both commercial and residential properties. 

Locally Owned and Operated SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884.

Your Water Pipes

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

water pipe bursting

We are coming into the time of year where the thermometer drops and snow starts falling from the sky.  In the winter months we come across water damages that are due to pipes that freeze, then when they thaw, they pop and burst. Sure these accidents are caused by the season, but one can say that they are also caused by neglecte. Pipes in the crawl space, basement, attic (if your house is on a concrete slab) are at risk of bursting if they are not properly insulated, thus resulting in extensive Water Damage and costly repairs. 

As the water in your pipes slowly freezes, the pressure will begin to increase. If the pressure is allowed to build, then the pipes will not be able to contain the frozen water within and can cause the pipes to break, crack and burst. Here are a few tips to help protect your pipes: Obviously insulate your pipes. Allow faucets to slowly drip, to minimize pressure build up and keep water moving. Open cabinet doors, to allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing. Maintain pipes and routinely inspect to avoid unknown water leaks. Always keep the thermostat on even when you are not home.

It's important to winterize your home before winter sets in. Foam pipe insulation is an inexpensive way to protect and prevent freezing.

The locally owned SERVPRO in your area understands that not all disasters can be avoided. A leaky or burst pipe can occur anywhere and at anytime. Our highly trained water restoration technicians are fully prepared to respond to emergency services 24-Hours, Including holidays.

Immediate action is considerably important in limiting any water damage. We have the expertise and equipment to professionally restore your property. Give us a call SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884. We'll conduct a advanced water-inspection, complete extraction, and use our high-end drying equipment and techniques to restore your home. We are “ready for whatever happens.”

Portable Heat

11/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Fire Damage Photo

Great! The cold winter months are here, said no one ever. Thermostats are being cranked up, wood piles are filled up and as we sit nestled in our homes all snug in our blankets, SERVPRO would like to discuss a few safety tips with you before you go get that space heater out to warm up that one deep back room in your house. 

Space heaters are popular for several reasons. They're small and compact, considerably cost efficient, and they can keep your room warm. However, they are also one of the leading causes of fires during the winter and are responsible for nearly 80% of home heating fires.

If you are going to use any sort of portable heaters in your home, we would like to share some important safety tips with you.

Essential safety precautions: 

• Always plug your heaters directly into the wall (Never us extension cords or power strips).
• Keep anything that can burn at least 3ft away including blankets, furniture, drapes and electronics ext. 
• Insure your smoke alarms/ carbon monoxide alarms are working properly.
• Do not allow children or pets near.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Avoid placing them on carpet or area rugs.
• Turn off heaters when unattended and before bed.

When improperly used, space heaters can carry a very high price if a fire happens. 

Extension cords and/or power strips are not designed to handle the high current flow needed for space heaters and can over heat and cause a fire. Although they are small the amount of electricity used to power them can overload the circuit and cause the extension cord to overheat.

Several of the newer models have a tip over switch, touch sensor, over heat protection, and also a longer power cord. Space heaters are one of those items that don't often get replaced and although it is recommended because the older models can potentially be more dangerous. Evan the newer models of heaters can be dangerous if used improperly. 

In an unfortunate instant, tragedy can happen. Always follow safely and be responsible.

As always if you or someone you know experiences a house fire we are always here to help. 

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso Fire & water - Cleanup & Restoration 1425 Alabama St. Suit M Longview, WA 98632 (360)703-3884

Categories of Water

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded Living Room

When SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso receives the call for a water loss or emergency, We will ask you a few key questions like, "Where is the water coming from" and "How much of the area has it affected". Here at SERVPRO from the initial phone call, to when our technicians arrive. We are assessing the damage and categorizing the type of water and classifications. Assessing the severity of the damage is important to determine what is needed to start the restoration and water removal process. A few of the various reasons we categorize is: 1- To know the level of care our technicians must take to safely work. 2- Preparing what equipment or tools are needed to quickly respond to the job. And 3- To best advise you of other safety measures you may need to take and helpful advise to minimize damage if possible.

The 3 Categories and what they mean:

• Category 1water/clean water: A clean source like a broken water line, appliances, sink overflow ext. The water in category 1 in other words is considered sanitary and is not yet a substantial risk.
• Category 2 water/ gray water: Water is significantly contaminated and can be harmful if consumed. Sources that may cause this type of water damage include toilets, sump pumps, and sewage.
• Category 3 water/ black water: Unsanitary water that contains bacteria, untreated sewage, harsh chemicals and microbes. Flooding rivers and sewage backups are a couple sources that may cause this water damage but standing water and storm surges also are highly contaminated too. 

We also use different classifications to help determine the extent of the water damage that you may have experienced. This is why we ask "How much has it affected". It's important because it helps us know what drying techniques to use, the amount of equipment to set-up and how long the drying process may take.

4 Water classifications:

• Class 1:The least harmful because affected materials absorb only small amounts of the water and involves less absorption and evaporation. Commonly only a small portion of a room is affected.
• Class 2:  A larger amount of water that has a fast rate of evaporation. Which means carpets and pads are affected, however water has not wicked up the walls more then 24 inches. Water damage repairs are more difficult. 
• Class 3: The water in this class has the fastest rate of evaporation and the greatest amount of water. It is commonly from overhead sources or sprinkler system. It can affect ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet/pad and subflooring. Class 3 is when the entire area is affected.
• Class 4: We often use this class for specialty drying situations. It affects materials with low permeance and porosity and can have longer drying times and methods. Types of damage can affect hardwood flooring, plaster and concrete. 

We are prepared to help, no matter the category or class of your water emergency. We have seen it all! 

SERVPRO of Longview/kelso is always ready when you need us. Trusted, local and ready to restore.

Your water damage needs are not going to wait, so why should you. Give us a call at (360)703-3884 and let our trained and certified water technicians do the rest

Fireplace &Wood/pellet stove safety

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

November 1st is not just the day after Halloween. It is the day that signifies Fall, and with Fall, comes the chilled air and the crackling sound from the wood in our fireplaces and wood/pellet stoves.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there has been a significant reduction of houses sold in recent years that has a fireplace. However, during the winter months, fireplaces and wood/pellet stoves are used greatly to heat many homes in our neighborhoods and across America which is why we want to remind everyone how important it is to maintain and properly operate your stoves and fireplaces.

In the United States, behind kitchen fires, the 2nd leading cause of home fires are from heating systems. Fireplaces and Wood/pellet stoves are a part of those statistics. Preventative maintenance and annually inspections are very important. A yearly chimney sweep by a professional is a must! An inspection of the exterior stone, mortar and piping is also of extream importance. Also, check your windows and door seals for drafts. It is amazing the amount of heat that can be lost due to cracks or gaps. Proper maintenance will help keep your heating system operating safely and you will get the best return of warmth.

Before enjoying your fireplace, correctly dispose of ashes. One inch of ash will cause a fire to make more smoke. It's important to never place ash in a garbage bin indoors/or out. To properly clean and dispose of ash, you have to make sure it is cooled before shoveling it into a metal container with a lid. Also, remember to never store it near your home or firewood. 

Consider the type of wood you are burning and where it is being stored. Green or young wood have higher moister content and cause a lot of smoke and more build up of creosote. https://www.doctorflue.com/blog/what-is-creosote/ It's best to use seasoned or dried wood  that has been split for a safer fire. Storing your firewood in a dry place is also something to remember either a wood shed or garage to avoid moister. 

A few safety tips to remember: 

• Always have a fire extinguisher near your fireplace/stove.
• Start fire properly.
• Install a chimney cap.
• Never store matches, lighters, or other fire starters within 3ft of the wood-stove or fireplace.
• Keep area clear of flammable items; Drapes, carpet, furniture and newspaper ext.
• Never overload a fire or burn other debris.
• Supervise small children and pets.
• Extinguish fire before bed. 

A small flame can get out of control within 30 seconds. So it's very important to be sure all smoke/ carbon monoxide detectors are working and everyone knows your homes fire escape plan.

We know how damaging chimney fires can be to your home. SERVPRO specializes in smoke and odor remediation and indoor air quality. If you ever experience a home fire give us a call (360)703-3884 as soon as the fire is put out, to prevent any further damage from occurring.

Specializing in fire & water-cleanup & restoration. SERVPRO of Longview/kelso locally owned and operated.

We're always ready to help!

Facial Coverings

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

Masks, scarves or cloth facial coverings have always been an effective way to protect oneself from airborne pollutants such as allergens, pollens, bacteria and viruses. Every year spring time blossoms, it brings with it waves of pollens, with the hundreds of willow trees in our neighborhood, producing their fluffy catkin friends and the sniffles that follow. On a dusty day I wear a mask when I’m mowing my yard, as it really helps with my sinus allergies by blocking the dust and grass debris. Besides the two most popular types of masks, surgical and respirators N95 and N99, do it yourself (DIY) masks are really becoming a popular option for when surgical mask and respirators are not available.

The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, like grocery stores, various retailers, restaurants and especially pharmacies. And now that we’re coming into the month of August I can say with confidence that we will have to wear facial coverings for the remainder of the year and most likely until the vaccine for Covid is well established, and that might not be until late spring of 2021. So if you have to wear a mask/facial covering you might as well have fun with it or shall I say some fun on it.

 If you are a business owner, and you have a business logo, you should have cloth facial wear with your business logo on them, and have multiple ones. I know that hundreds of SERVPROs nationwide have had cloth masks made up with their logos, for their production, marketing and office staff to proudly display to others. And also just to give away. You could have some coverings logo’d with your favorite sports team. With your favorite uplifting quote. You could have a scripture from the Bible put on a few. With the Holidays coming sooner than later, you could have “the great pumpkin” - Charlie Brown or “Santa Clause is coming to town”. I am very positive that “Merry Christmas” on many masks will sure be a welcoming sight, and on the faces of young and old, when December first comes. You could even have a picture of your pet placed on one or even pay respect to a family member or friend who has passed.

Great conversations will be had by many if we all want to have some fun and stop stressing over the fact of having to wear one. The time will come when we will not have to wear a mask, but until then, let’s be kind, be creative and have some fun. 

Oh the Year

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

Coming into the year 2020, optimism for a record year in sales was very high. The excitement of some of the major holidays falling on a Friday or Saturday added to the joy of what the year could bring. Valentine's was on a Friday as is the delight of Christmas. The Fourth of July celebration along with Halloween is a Saturday Night dream for kids and adults. Marketing to insurance agents, adjusters, property managers and various business owners during this year was going to be super exciting. I mean, it's 2020, perfect vision for a super strong and exciting year.  However, as the month of February closed and the days leading up to March 13^th became nerve-racking, it became evident that this year was going to be far from what we all expected.  We had never heard of nor been through what some were calling a “pandemic” and we didn’t know what was going to happen thus causing “fear of the unknown”.

March 13^th was a Friday, no less, and that was the day my sales, marketing and community involvement world drastically change and it is not the same today nor will it be for some time. During the “stay home-stay healthy” order, I had fear, stress and depression fill my soul. I used to be able to stop in and visit with agents and business owners face to face. Direct communication was/is key for me and not being able to do this made me feel weak, like I was not doing my job. Weekly Rotary meetings screeched to a halt as did the fundraising for the local non-profits I help with. In person board meetings are a thing of the past, for now, as Zoom and other virtual meeting platforms have arose to help us all communicate and try to bring a little normalcy to our lives. Every August for the past 8 years we hosted a blood drive to support the American Red Cross. That might not happen this year and the impact of that will be felt by many. We all are certainly living with a different mind-set today. We have different attitudes and even our personalities have changed. One thing has changed with our appearance and that is the fact we must cover our faces with a mask. A person can learn a lot from a person’s facial expression and their smile. But with all that being said, the sales & marketing show must go on.

For any business in the Longview/Kelso area, or even nationwide, the sales and marketing department must continue on the engagement path. If not for growth then for continued presence, and SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is no different. Constant encouraging emails to Center of Influences are a must and at an all time high of need. Meaningful and fun social media posts are vital. As said by the Chief Executive Officer of SERVPRO, Rick Isaacson, “There’s no sugar coating it, the pandemic has challenged the SERVPRO system like never before, and it will take tenacious focus to recover.” Rick went on to say that we are “tough and resilient.” That we are and we have learned that from the top down. In today’s marketing world, we need to stay top of mind more than ever. The consumer has many distractions. Perhaps radio ads may prove to have a more effective reach today than last year. Same can be said about paid social media ads. Get out and walk the streets dressed in SERVPRO with a verbal greeting to all you see. Involvement in the community can be helping with an online virtual fundraising auction, to help support a non-profit, instead of an in-person auction. Be bold, be a keyboard worrier. We must not give up as an individual for this fight is a team fight. And as Team SERVPRO, we will win.

The Summer Season

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

BBQ with Plenty of Room

Summer is “fun in the sun”. Summer is friends and family gatherings and celebrations. Summer is fireworks, parades, car shows and barbecues. While having a wonderful time and creating some fond memories, we all need to be aware of a danger that can wipe away all the fun and joy summer barbecuing can bring. Along with all the festivities, sadly there are plenty of statics that cause concern and draws attention to some facts of neglect. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in 2014-2018, grills, hibachis or barbecues were involved in an average of 10,600 home fires per year, including an average of 4,900 structure fires and 5,700 outside or unclassified fires. These fires caused annual averages of 10 civilian deaths, 160 reported civilian injuries, and $149 million in direct property damage. July is the peak month for grill fires (18%), including both structure, outdoor or unclassified fires, followed by June (15%), May (13%) and August (12%). Five of every six grills involved in home fires were fueled by gas (84 percent), while 12 percent used charcoal or another solid fuel and sixty-one percent of all households own a gas grill. Another fact that can steal the joys of summer is visits to emergency room. Also according to NFPA, an average of 19700 individuals visits the ER per year from injuries involving grills, including 9500 for thermal burns.

There is nothing like outdoor grilling. It is one of the most popular ways to cook today. So how can we have a fun, safe and memory making summer while grilling up some tasty foods? Follow these simple tips, provided by NFPA, and you will be on the way to safe grilling and tasty eats. First off, if you have not used your grill for awhile, check the tank hose for cracks. You can also apply a light soap/water solution to the hose. If you see bubbles, there is a leak and do not use. BBQ grills should only be used outdoors and the grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill. Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area and never leave your grill unattended. Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it and when you are finished, please allow a cool down of your grill before place the cover on it or move it back to its place.

For Charcoal grills, there are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel and if you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources. There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use. When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

 We here at SERVPRO hope this information is helpful. Be smart, be cautious and be proactive this and every season. Enjoy your family your friends. Make wonderful memories and have a blast doing so. Happy Summer 2020.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help Our Community – SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 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

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.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso, (360)703-3884.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Mold Remediation and Restoration for your Commercial Business.

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

If you see signs of mold- Call us today (360) 703-3884 SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso.

Commercial buildings are huge investments, which would make sense why finding the right building to invest in requires a lot of vetting. Along with checking square footage, the surrounding area, plumbing, wiring and the works, a mold inspection should be immediate also.

Professional mold inspections in commercial buildings are a fairly new concept. Health issues brought about by mold was not advocated for until the 90s, when a light was shed on the possible consequences of mold infestations. Now, homeowners and business owners alike are meticulous in inspecting for mold when purchasing a building, as they should be.

Mold can grow on virtually any surface, so long as it is presented with a damp enough climate to persist. Mold spores can be extremely apparent via smell or sight, or it can only be detected through specific testing. Mold survives on or “eats” away at materials, causing damage and change to the look, smell, or structure of whatever it is affecting. Structural changes can include the reliability or strength for a building. For an investor or building owner, this could raise working hazards and building safety.

Allowing employees to work within mold-ridden spaces is another costly situation. Due to mold’s potential health risk, employers and building owners should be weary of allowing employees, visitors, tenants or vendors to inhabit the building. Even if the mold is quarantined to one specific area, it still has the potential to travel through HVAC systems, affecting other areas.

If you are purchasing or currently own a commercial building, a mold inspection should be mandated. A commercial mold remediation company such as your locally owned SERVPRO can perform visual assessments, sampling, and mold remediation strategies. Even if mold is not found, remediation companies can provide insight into future issues. Any situation that is a potential playground for moisture accumulation and mold growth will be addressed by a professional. This includes a leaking roof, structural characteristics that may allow water into the building, building maintenance issues or more.

Scheduling pre-move in mold inspections as well as implementing routine inspections, especially in Southwest Washington, are vital to your building and business.

Call SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso today at (360) 703-3884. 

3 Reasons Water Damage Calls for a Professional.

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage escalates to mold and microbial growth in just a few days, so don't wait to call SERVPRO (360) 703-3884.

An overflowing bathtub or a leaking pipe may occur from time to time for some homeowners. Small mishaps like these are a daily occurrence and are usually handled without any second thoughts once the cleanup is done. Calls for water damage estimates usually are made when there are big leaks or major flooding and the need for restoration is undeniable. It is also rationale, however, to call during small floods and leaks for more than just reassurance.

Why You Should Call a Professional

1. Each category of water is different

There are three categories of water: clean, gray, and black. Water falls into each category based on its source. Each source has different implications including safety precautions and cleanup needs. This means that just because a small flood at home may have water that is “clean”, the water can be potentially harmful, needing more than just a mop and some rags to clean.

2. More than the floors may be wet

If there is slight flooding in your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room, these areas most likely are surrounded by tile; they are also surrounded by building materials like cupboards or drywall. Drywall, unbeknownst to you, may become saturated with water and extremely heavy. The more water the drywall holds the more unstable it becomes, causing structural damage that you may not be aware of.

Electrical wires or appliances may have also taken on water, causing a high risk to homeowners as this may pose damage later on for these items.

3. You don't have the proper equipment

If a flood appears to be small and contained, there may not be a question as to the length of time the water has been apparent. Without properly vetting all surrounding areas and building materials, it is impossible to tell if a “small” flood was truly small and non-damaging. Homeowners lack the ability to make these assessments. Homeowners also lack the proper equipment to dry out areas that have experienced water damage. Even the smallest amount of moisture left, given the right environment, can pose the threat of mold damage.

When it comes to floods and accompanying water damage, leave the cleanup to the pros. Regardless of the size or area affected, water has the ability to permeate through many materials, locking moisture in where it should not exist. Call a local professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso to handle all of your water cleanup needs.

How does SERVPRO help with Insurance Claims?

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

If you have experienced water of fire damage, don't wait and call SERVPRO and your insurance agent for claim services immediately.

When the unthinkable happens and your worst nightmare comes true with a flood or fire in your home, help is available. Different key groups play important roles to ensure you can stay in or return to your home. Firefighters, disaster cleanup and restoration professionals, and your insurance company. They will do their part to make the process as pain free as possible. If you choose an experienced, reputable restoration team such as SERVPRO, they’ll make sure claim services go smoothly.

SERVPRO Specialties

When you need an emergency response cleanup and repair team, there are plenty of choices. But few can do what SERVPRO offers. The team will do the following for you:

• Work effectively with your insurance company to process claims.
• Come on the scene in a timely manner and complete the job quickly.
• Use best practices and techniques to clean up and restore your home.
• Provide excellent customer service.

Importance of Insurance Coverage

Even small floods or fires can cause costly damage to your home. While you may not be able to replace all items, you can have peace of mind knowing that you shouldn’t have to front the bill. This is why you pay for reliable, reputable insurance. Claim services shouldn’t have to be difficult to work with. You can make things even easier when you hire the professionals at SERVPRO. They know how to work in tandem with your insurance agent. Because of the team’s efficiency and reliability, the insurance company can process your claims quickly and without issues.

What the Insurance Company Wants

Your insurance agent will ask for details of the incident and the extent of the damage. The repair and restoration team will conduct a thorough investigation and will assess the damage and what needs to happen to repair or replace it. The team will share these findings with the insurance company.

Don’t waste any time following a flood or fire. Call SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360) 703-3884 and your insurance agent for claim services immediately.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is Faster to Any Size Disaster!

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

Finding a company that is faster to any size disaster can reduce costs and minimize further damage.

When disaster strikes, you need a company that can be faster to any size disaster. When water begins to invade a space, mold can begin forming in as little as 48 hours and fire can leave a building exposed to the elements. So, whatever type of disaster you have experienced, a quick turnaround time is a must. If you have sustained damage inside your residential or commercial property, the company you choose should be highly trained, experienced, and able to use advanced technology.

Types of Services

When looking for help to repair and restore your property, finding a company that is faster to any size disaster can reduce costs and minimize further damage. A solid restoration company should have the experience and skills to ensure all the necessary tasks are completed from assessment through restoration. Common restoration services you may need help with:

• Mold remediation
• Fire damage restoration
• Water damage restoration
• Cleanup services
• Storm damage restoration
• Disinfection

When you file an insurance claim, your adjuster can usually recommend a preferred vendor that offers all of these services but you can request your own.

How it Fits Together

When the experts get onsite, they may assess the damage and put emergency measures in place. This could be stopping a leak or covering a broken window. If there is water damage, they may set up special equipment to begin the drying process. At this time or during a later visit, the team may remove damaged items, disinfect, or repair certain areas. At the end of the process, they may replace damage items and make the area look like the damage never even happened.

A professional cleanup and restoration company that is faster to any size disaster can help stop further damage from occurring. If you find that you have sustained damage to your property in Longview/Kelso or the surrounding areas, hiring a local company that is here and available 24/7 can save you time, money, and hassle.

Simply put, Psychrometry is The Science behind Structural Drying.

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

The science of drying.Psychrometry is just one of the technical aspects of restoration drying.

Water damage is a scary thought for any home or business owner. There are so many causes and sources of water damage ranging from sewage drain back up to burst or frozen pipes. The naked eye alone can not identify how far or deep the damage has traveled. Which is why it's essential to work with a trained professional to locate all the water damage within a property and to fully understand the science of drying the affected areas.

So What is Psychrometry?

Psychrometry is the study of the air and its properties. The properties of temperature, humidity, vapor pressure and dew point are measured to evaluate air conditions in the structure, enabling a SERVPRO Franchise Professional to create the proper atmosphere for more efficient drying. 

Water can damage materials in two ways: first, by absorption through direct contact with water; and second, absorption of moisture from the air. Measuring the moisture content of the air is critical to the drying process. Similarly, during the raining seasons the moisture content of the air is high while during summers and winters its low.

Understanding these conditions and their relationship to each other will assist in determining what equipment will be needed as well as how long it will take to dry a structure and its contents. Tracking and recording these numbers daily also assures you of a successful job completion.

At SERVPRO of Longview/ Kelso we employ several tools and techniques to aid the drying process and accelerate it as well. Our most important asset is our people and the knowledge they bring to the damaged property. We are highly trained teams of IICRC Certified Water damage restoration professionals. This means when you call SERVPRO of Longview/ Kelso you are getting the highest quality of professionals to address any size disaster. We are very proud to be a leader in the emergency services and disaster restoration industry.

Water Damage Assessment for Commercial Properties.

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Damage Assessment Practices.

Flooding and water damage events in Southwest Washington commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Longview/ Kelso

SERVPRO of Longview/ Kelso, specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have a question?

Call us today (360) 703-3884

Protecting your Home from Secondary Damages.

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

A residential home as the rain drains off the roof.

There are lots of different issues that could cause damage to your home; Roof damage is one of those. Damage due to storms is the most typical, but there are several things that could cause the damage to your roof some being more visible than others.

It is always good practice to have your roof inspected every 10-12 years, unless there has been a specific issue that may have caused a reason to check it sooner such as a severe storm, hail, or some other sort of natural disaster.  Unfortunately, when your roof becomes damaged it can lead to bigger issues that may ultimately cause water damage to the interior of your home.

Here we mention a few things to look for when you are inspecting your roof:

• Loose or missing shingles: this could be caused by high winds, improper installation, or simply wearing out over exposure to the elements through the years. Loose nails can also leave a hole in the shingle that water can find its way through as well.
• Poor installation of the flashing. "Flashing" is the metal that is placed in the sections where the roof meets the walls, or in the valleys. This must be installed properly to divert water from the roof.
• Gutters that are not placed with the right pitch, or that have seems that are not sealed properly can also cause water to back up and then overflow into the house causing water damage to ceilings and/or walls. Not having gutter guards to keep leaves and debris from collecting in the gutters can cause overflow of water that can result in damage to your roof and other areas of your home as well.
• Rotted fascia or soffit can also be an area that allows water to intrude.

If you suspect that you may have roof damage causing water damage to your home please feel free to contact us at (360) 703-3884 and we will be happy to assist you.

SERVPRO of Longview/ Kelso will be there for all of your home repairs or accidents.

Cold Weather Storms Impacting your Home.

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Winterizing your property can save you from more then just a high energy bill.

It has been a cold winter season this year in Southwest Washington. However, the heating season is not over yet. Cold temperatures can create a negative impact on your home and property. It’s key that you take the necessary precautions for your home not only for cold weather, but for storm season as well in order to limit potential risks and damages. When doing routine maintenance, it’s always better to be prepared and go the extra step to insure that you are limiting risks of damage. It’s important to be thorough while inspecting your building.

• Basements and crawlspaces in your home can be areas where heat escapes.  Be sure to seal and insulate around any HVAC ducts, basement windows, and any exposed pipes.
• Try installing foam-rubber gaskets behind electrical outlets & switch covers on exterior walls.
• If you don’t use your fireplace, plug the flue with an inflatable plug, or another item, that is safe and limits possible water to entry into your home.
• Make sure you replace any broken windows, re-putty any loose window panes, seal around windows and door trims, or use weather stripping for windows that are opened.  This minor step can make a world of difference in heat efficiency and preventing water intrusion.
• For attic spaces it’s best to weather strip & insulate the access door properly, seal around your chimney with metal flashing or a high temperature sealant, seal around plumbing vents, seal any holes between the heated space of your home and the attic, and don’t forget to insulate any exposed water pipes!

If water damage occurs in your home due to extreme weather or any other means, make sure to call the restoration team at your local SERVPRO of Longview/ Kelso. Our technicians are trained and experienced in dealing with not only average water damage but storm water damages to buildings as well. Give SERVPRO of Longview/ Kelso a call today for your building damages at (360) 703-3884.

Where there is smoke, there's soot.

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Rule of thumb- If it is smoke it is acidic. So don't delay and call us today!

Did you know long after a fire has been put out, it can still threaten your household and the people living in it with smoke damage that it leaves behind? 

As the smoke travels through your home, the chemicals and soot it caries cling to walls, floors, ceilings, cloths, furniture and appliances. Even after cleaning up with traditional materials, unseen traces of smoke remain locked deep in tiny crevices and fibers of whatever it came in contact with.

The Hidden Dangers of Smoke and Soot Damage

As fire consumes wood, textiles, synthetic material and plastics, it creates thick plumes of smoke that spread throughout the burning structure.

Below is a list of damages that smoke can create if not completely removed after a fire: 

• Corrosion of Metal house parts- Iron can weaken with rust when constantly exposed to water. When a fire occurs and caustic substances are added to the mix, the rusting process becomes even more rapid.
• Appliance failures- Appliances have plenty of sensitive metal parts in them. When smoke passes through their ventilation and exhaust panels, it can come in contcat with the circuit boards and other critical components. Over time, the soot and chemicals aid corrosion, destroying your electronics from within.
• Damage to Artwork- Artwork can suffer profound damage when exposed to thick smoke and left untreated afterwards. Paintings can be ruined by paint discoloration. The same goes for stone sculptures which can develop color irregularities over time. Smoke and soot's corrosive particles can also get trapped in tiny pores on the surfaces of sculptures, weakening them and making them more susceptible to chipping and breakage.
• Weaker Woodwork- Wooden floors, walls, ceilings and furniture can degenerate under the corrosive influences of soot and smoke particles left behind after a fire.  

Smoke is caustic in nature. Little by little, it's residue can eat away at the surfaces where it landed. Creating corrosion to metal, glass and plastics. The heat of a fire opens the pores of substrates and drives the soot particle deeply into the outer layers of the substrates affected. Soot when combined with water or higher humidity conditions exponentially increases the acidic strength and thus the damage is very aggressive. 

In a lot of cases, you'll need specialized help from a fire damage restoration service provider to get things back to normal. The more time you wait, the damage will increase. This is why SERVPRO is here to help you with the cleanup and restoration. Once we begin our work, the main priority will be to prevent the damage from getting worse. At SERVPRO we use a special formulated cleanser, designed to reverse most of the damage. Our technicians have the training and expertise required to clean and reverse the damage after a fire.

To remove the smell of smoke and any remnants of soot from your household, rely on a professional fire damage restoration service. Damage escalates, and restoration costs increase when you delay the cleanup process.

So don't wait to contact SERVPRO of Longview/ Kelso (360)703-3884. So that you can go back to your normal lives "Like it never even happened." Our office is ready to take your call at anytime.

IICRC Certified SERVPRO of Longivew/Kelso.

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Hire the company that will insure your home is properly restored SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884.

Standards are important to the cleaning, inspection and restoration industries and your locally owned SERVPRO because they benefit public health, safety and the environment.

It's important when hiring a company that you make sure that the company, and employees have the proper training to ensure that the job is done to industry standards. The mission of the IICRC is to establish and advance globally recognized standards and certifications.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is an IICRC certified restoration service provider. The institute of inspection, cleaning, and restoration certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification. IICRC certified firms have the right to display the IICRC certified logo.

IICRC Certified Firms Must:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
• The IICRC Develops the Standards for the Restoration Industry.

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Certifications:

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Home restoration service claims can seem complex.

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Our professional restoration staff will fully document the damage, and help you understand your policy coverage!

If you've recently experienced any type of fire or flood in your home, getting things back to the way they were can take time—and money.

Knowing what to do after a catastrophic event such as these many homeowners may feel hesitant. However, when you have the support of your home insurance policy and a trusted restoration company, you can save yourself from the stress and high expenses that are associated with water and fire damage repairs.

Since navigating restoration insurance claims can be complex, SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso wants to answer a few common questions homeowners have about the process.

5 FAQs About Using Home Insurance for Water & Fire Damage Repairs:

Will Water & Fire Damage Repairs Be Covered By My Policy?

Most home insurance providers cover restoration work related to fire and water damage. Although, this damage typically has to be connected to an event that is covered by your policy—also known as a “peril.” For instance, plumbing emergencies and electrical fires may be acceptable perils, but floods may require additional coverage.

Will Putting Off Repairs Affect My Insurance Policy?

In some cases, fire and water damage may seem minor enough to put off repairs. But, if more damage occurs as a result of negligence, your insurance company may not cover those future claims. By staying proactive and making repairs as soon as possible, you can protect yourself against denied claims down the road.

Should I Call My Insurance Company Before the Restoration Company?

When you have a water and fire damage repair company in mind, it is often best to call them before reaching out to your insurance provider. These professionals will fully document the damage, making it easier to file an accurate claim. They will also provide the proactive care to keep your home safe, as well as prevent further damage.

Can I Choose My Own Restoration Provider?

If you do call your insurance provider first, they may recommend a company for your home repairs. While it’s perfectly acceptable to use these references, it is not required. In fact, it is your right as a policyholder to choose who repairs your property.

When Should I Pay Out-of-Pocket?

If your insurance deductible is higher than the cost of the repairs, it is generally best to pay out-of-pocket. In these instances, you would have been required to pay the whole price anyway without any coverage from your provider. Nonetheless, many water and fire restoration jobs will exceed the cost of the deductible.

In a perfect world, homeowners would always be able to avoid these situations—but accidents still happen.

Fortunately, it’s easy to stay prepared when you have SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso near by. Servicing everything from mold remediation to fire damage repairs, our restoration company will ensure you receive fast, expert care. Visit them online to learn more about their services or call (360) 703-3884 to request 24/7 emergency assistance.

Safely preparing for power outages during a storm.

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Faster to any size disaster, your local SERVPRO is always here even in the darkest of times.

Power outages in the Pacific Northwest are often due to downed power lines and heavy wind storms, during the winter months. SERVPRO would like to help you make a plan and be safe.

Power outages can cause a number of safety concerns; knowing the following information can help:

Ways to prepare before a power outage

• Register life-sustaining and medical equipment with your utility company.
• Consider buying a generator. When installing a generator, follow the instructions carefully.
• Make sure your disaster preparedness kit contains light sticks, flashlights, a battery-powered radio with extra batteries and a wind-up clock.
• Have a corded telephone available — cordless phones will not work when the power is out.
• Have a safe alternative heat source and supply of fuel. Never burn charcoal or use a generator indoors.
• If you own an electric garage door opener, know how to open the door without power.

During a power outage

• Turn off lights and electrical appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer.
• Even if it is dark, turn light switches and buttons on lamps or appliances to the “off” position.
• Unplug computers and other sensitive equipment to protect them from possible surges when the power is restored.
• Leave one lamp on so you will know when power is restored. Wait at least 15 minutes after power is restored before turning on other appliances.
• Conserve water, especially if you use well water.
• Never use gas ovens, gas ranges, or portable or propane heaters for indoor heating—they use oxygen and create carbon monoxide that can cause suffocation.
• Candles can cause a fire. It's far better to use battery-operated flashlights or glow sticks for lighting.
• Using a kerosene heater, gas lantern or stove inside the house can be dangerous. Maintain proper ventilation at all times to avoid a build up of toxic fumes.
• Stay away from downed power lines and sagging trees with broken limbs

Keeping food safe

• Use and store food carefully to prevent foodborne illness when power outages make refrigeration unavailable.
• Use foods first that can spoil most rapidly.
• Keep doors to refrigerators and freezers closed. Your refrigerator's freezer will keep food frozen for up to a day. A separate fully-loaded freezer will keep food frozen for two days.
• Use an ice chest packed with ice or snow to keep food cold. Use blocks or bags of ice to save refrigerator foods.
• If in doubt, throw it out. Throw out meat, seafood, dairy products and cooked food that does not feel cold.
• Never taste suspect food. Even if food looks and smells fine, illness-causing bacteria may be present.

Generator use during a power outage 

Don't overload your generator, determine the amount of power you will need to operate those things you plan to connect.

• Light bulb wattage indicates the power needed for lighting.
• Appliances and equipment labels indicate their power requirements. 

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso would also like to share a friendly reminder, to check on the elderly in your neighborhood ensuring their safety. The power outages we have experienced over the past years in Washington are normally restored fairly quickly. However, in the event of a longer outage, it's important to know how to be prepared.

If you have ineluctably experienced storm damage to your home, we are here for you 24/7.

Is your business ready for a winter storm?

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Who will you call when your business needs restored... SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884!

Winter storms can be quite destructive to any size of residential or commercial property here in the Pacific Northwest. When a winter storm hits, it can significantly interrupt if not suspend your business operations. Winter storms can bring freezing rain, ice, snow, high winds, or a combination of these conditions. Which can undoubtedly cause thousands of dollars of damage to your property if your not prepared.

Ways to prepare your business before a storm: 

• Clear out your gutters.

While it is important to regularly maintain your gutters, it is especially important to clear them out before a big storm. With the rain storm typically comes a downpour of leaves and other debris. If the gutters aren’t cleared out they are likely to clog and limit the water that can drain off of the roof.

• Regularly inspect and repair your roof.

Heavy precipitation can result in erosion and cracking. The real trouble starts when cracking occurs during heavy rains (or when heavy rains hit and expand an existing crack). This crack will let water into your building, leading to leaks, flooding, and mold. Inspecting your roof annually can prevent major damage.

• Maintain and inspect joints and windows.

Flashing, joints, sealant, windows, etc. Anywhere two planes or surfaces come together, there is potential for leaks. And where there are leaks, there can be mold. These leaks can be caused by the wear down of a material over time, shifting of the property or simply from daily use.

• Prevent frozen pipes.

Business owners should be concerned about frozen pipes as the weather turns cold. Insure the pipes in unheated spaces are properly insulated so that the water inside does not expand and burst. You will also need to keep the temperature on your thermostat set to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Clearing storm drains.

Storm drains are in place to move excess water away from buildings, driveways, and walkways.  Although it is the cities job to maintain these, being watchful can protect you from flooding and water damage.

• Power surges.

During inclement weather a power surge can  damage equipment, such as computers, fax machines, etc. Taking precautions here by unplugging devices till power is restored will help save you time and money.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is always ready to help if your property sustains storm, fire, or water damage. Visit our website to learn more about the commercial services we offer.

When disaster strikes, having a plan and being able to put it into immediate action can mean the difference between staying open and being forced to close for several days. Your local SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster (360)703-3884.

Does your insurance policy cover your home from storm damage?

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Preventative measures can help you avoid water damage to your home from a storm and prevent costly repairs.

The rain is no stranger, to the residents of the Pacific Northwest. We experience heavy down pours and steady rain fall for the greater part of the year.

Water Damage can be ravaging to your home, whether you’re dealing with rain water invading your basement or a pipe burst from the upstairs bathroom. Addressing the damage quickly is important, but there are a few things you need to know about water damage prior to calling SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso.

The Highly-Trained Restoration Specialists here at SERVPRO put together a couple helpful tips to inform homeowners of Cowlitz County and surrounding areas:

Insurance policies won't cover all water damage.

Challengingly enough, most homeowners insurance policies are extremely specific about the types of damage they cover. Policies often times only cover damage caused by broken pipes or appliance failures but, generally, will not cover damage caused by natural disasters or rain water. If you’re concerned about your home’s risk for floods or live in a area where pooling water can affect your home, you may want to invest in an additional policy.

Report the Damage Quickly

Water may not always appear as a major problem, but it’s critical that you report the damage as soon as possible to your insurance company. The sooner the problem is reported, the faster your insurance agent can begin getting the home restored. In turn, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth throughout your property.

Contact a Professional Water damage and Restoration Company.

When it comes to water damage, many homeowners believe they can simply clean up the mess themselves. While this may be true for small leaks, it can present a major safety hazard. Water quality matters and the steps required to clean up water damage from an overflowing toilet or rain water from the ground outside differ from those used to clean up a burst pipe. Remember, contaminated water from the ground or sewer water from a toilet can contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.

Don’t let water destroy your home. Contact the water extraction experts at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as soon as you notice a problem and let the professionals handle your home’s restoration. For more information on their mold remediation and biohazard cleanup services, visit their website https://www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com/ and call (360)703-3884 to schedule an appointment.

How prepared are you for the inevitable?

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

For a stress free claims process, SERVPRO works with your insurance to help manage the insurance process and paperwork.

Do you have homeowners insurance that will cover you in the event of fire or water damage?

You've probably heard it time and again: your home is one of the largest financial investments you'll make in your lifetime but it's also an investment that's vulnerable to numerous risks.

Home insurance offers peace of mind, with homeowners insurance, you can sleep a little sounder at night knowing that you have a veritable safety net if anything ever happens to your largest investment. Additionally, if something ever happens to your place, your insurer is there to make sure you don't lose any of that hard-sought value you've diligently earned over the years.

How can insurance protect your home:

• Coverage includes temporary housing after a disaster.

If your home is rendered uninhabitable after, say, a brutal hailstorm or a fire, additional living expense coverage could help pay for temporary living costs while your home is being worked on. These costs may include hotel expenses or interim housing, food, laundry and dry cleaning, storage space.

•  Covers the home's structure.

A homeowners insurance policy covers the cost to rebuild the home's structure if the damage falls under the scope of the policy. The amount of coverage on the policy determines how much the insurance company will pay toward rebuilding the house, so you want to make sure that amount is accurate. The insurance company should calculate the amount of necessary coverage for you. By insuring the structure of your home, you are protecting yourself financially should damage occur.

• Pays to replace belongings or have them professionally cleaned/restored.

A standard home policy also covers your belongings in the event of serious damage. Even if you feel like you don't own much, replacing all your belongings would add up quickly. You need a homeowners policy so you don't have to go without the necessities and luxuries that you have inside your home. Including various valuable, expensive, and important belongings such as documents, jewelry, clothing, appliances, and furniture.

• Fulfills mortgage contract.

Most homeowners carry a mortgage on their homes. If you are one of those mortgage-carrying homeowners, your contract likely requires a homeowners insurance policy. The lender has a financial liability in your home, which is the reason for requiring insurance. Most companies will place an insurance policy on your home if you don't have your own homeowners policy, so skipping out isn't an option. 

In case your house gets damaged, the emotional and financial pain of rebuilding a house or reinstalling it's contents is painful, and difficult to do alone. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso has a great understanding of this and will work closely with your insurance agent through every step of the restoration process and to help you get your home back to it's preloss condition. 

If you've experienced any unforeseen circumstances that have affected your home, don't delay on contacting SERVPRO (360)703-3884 to have are experts evaluate the damage.

Preventing damage after the storm melts.

11/30/2019 (Permalink)

Some cold, hard facts on winter risks to property.

Too much heavy snow on a roof can cause it to collapse and leaks in the roof may mean melting snow, ice, and rain can drip into your living space. So making a plan to protect your home from damage can be beneficial.

Outside, freezing air isn't kind to your plants and snow piling up on your sidewalk and damaged trees need your attention, too.

Here are ways to prevent damage to your roof, basement and yard, and to clean up and prepare for the thaw:

Roof:

How much snow can your roof handle?

Flat and low-slope roofs accumulate more snow and ice, while melting snow runs off of steep sloped roofs. Ice and snow also tend to pile up on porches and places next to a taller section of the house, especially during high winds. Unless the roof structure is damaged or decayed, most residential roofs can hold 20lbs per square foot of snow before they become stressed.

The best way to prevent damage is to remove snow from roofs, covered patios, carports and awnings. 

Basement, Attics, and crawl space

Once you notice water damage, repair rooms promptly to prevent mold from growing.

• On the roof check for loose or missing shingles.
• Check the attic, basement, or crawlspace for leaks, signs of moisture damage, and standing water.
• Clean and clear the gutters and ensure they are functioning properly.
• Check siding, windows and doors to ensure no areas have come loose or that water has seeped in.

Sidewalk

Homeowners are legally obligated to clear their sidewalks of ice and snow but while your out there it's a good time to check that the nearest storm drain is clear of debris, because when everything melts it can potentially cause flooding.

If you have experienced or have water damage call SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884. We hope you all have a safe and warm winter!

Disaster prevention starting with a free ERP through SERVPRO!

11/29/2019 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO is a leader in our industry. Don't wait for a disaster to get your emergency plan ready!

A business owner is always seeking ways to improve and to protect their investment. The property being the most susceptible to damage. When you experience any type of damage to your property it can be exceedingly expensive.

As a leader in restoration and disaster prevention, the professionals at SERVPRO want to help protect your business. One of the ways we can help you do this is through a free Emergency Ready Profile. The creation of an emergency profile allows you to work with a qualified representative to develop a plan of action for when disaster strikes.

What is a ERP?

An Emergency Ready Profile is a file created for your business that contains an emergency plan of action. This profile allows you to minimize any prolonged business interruption by ensuring that SERVPRO is ready and prepared to help with a simple phone call.

How Can It Help?

The ERP helps provide you with a level of security that many do not have after experiencing a disaster. After assessing your facility, identifying a line of command, and establishing an emergency profile, you will know that when disaster strikes, a qualified professional has your back and knows just what to do and who to contact.

Does It Matter for Your Business?

The research doesn’t lie: After a disaster occurs, many businesses — about 50 percent — have to close down. Having an Emergency Ready Profile in place allows SERVPRO to take action immediately following a disaster. By taking fast action, you can limit business interruption, meaning that you can get back to doing what you do best as quickly as possible. 

How Can You Get Started?

You can get started creating your emergency profile by contacting a representative at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso or logging onto the ERP app. Once you have initiated contact, a representative will reach out to find out the best time to schedule your facility’s free assessment.

An ERP is an excellent way to protect your business and your interests. You can call a local representative for help in creating your business's Emergency Ready Profile today.

Resources for Commercial Businesses in Cowlitz County.

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

We're here to insure your commercial property is restored properly, you don't have to go in at it alone.

At your local SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso we offer a variety of resources and services for all types of commercial businesses. Whether it is a cleanup due to a water or fire emergency, mold remediation, or just a general carpet cleaning, we have you covered! 

We know the demands of running and maintaining a business and how a unforeseen disaster can cause a tremendous amount of chaos and eventual loss of revenue. Which is why it's important to always have a emergency ready plan (ERP) setup and knowing who to call in thee event of such emergencies. 

Your local SERVPRO has a creditable reputation and are known for our fast and professional response to any size disaster. Our highly trained restoration staff can help guide you through the process and get you back to business.

Water Damage Restoration

Flooding and water damage seem to happen at the most inconvenient times. We have the expertise and equipment to properly restore any size of  commercial or property loss. The water removal process is completed by our highly-trained technicians. Who will document the drying process to ensure it's complete. 

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
• Highly Trained Water Damage Restoration Specialists

Fire Damage Restoration

When your business is affected by fire or smoke damage, productivity can experience a significant loss. Water damage is also a common secondary loss when a fire occurs, due to the fire fighting efforts. As a trusted leader in fire and water damage restoration SERVPRO has extensive training that's required. 

• Fire and Smoke Restoration
• Odor Control
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning
• Water Damage Restoration

Mold Remediation

Mold can spread quickly through a property if left untreated. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso can respond quickly, working to first contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of the building. Next, we will begin the remediation process, working safely and effectively to manage the situation. We have the training, experience, and equipment to contain the mold infestation and remediate it to preloss condition.

• Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Highly Trained Mold and Water Damage Restoration Specialist 

Cleaning Service

Whether it's removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring and carpets, you can rely on us to make your workplace look it's very best. A few of our commercial services we offer for cleaning:

• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floor
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

Storm and Major Events

There’s never a convenient time for flooding or storm damage to strike your business. Wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding can occur suddenly and cause substantial damage in a matter of minutes. We are here for all of your restoration needs.

Here at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso, we have the experience, knowledge, and expertise necessary to help you with any mold damage or preventive practices. We are also available for cleanup after fire and water damage. Call us today at (360)703-3884. 

Do you have a Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your business?

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Be prepared and establish your businesses Emergency Ready Plan today, we're here to help!

As a business owner you always want to make sure you have emergency contacts close by in case anything unexpected happens. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso realizes that you might not think about the unexpected things that can occur to your business; flooding, tornado damage, etc.

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

Emergency Ready Program

Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster, plan for it now! Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage is of no-cost assessment to your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. However, it will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.

This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.” Give us a call today and set up your ERP (360)703-3884!

Fire estinguisher awarness and safety from your local SERVPRO!

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

The moments after a fire has started are critical, so responding quickly can minimize the destruction.

So just how important are fire extinguishers?

Do you have one in your home or business and know how to properly use it, incase of an emergency?

Being prepared in the case of having a small fire, can be extremely important. Fire extinguishers are essential as they are the most commonly used device for fire protection. In many cases they're the first line of defense and can often contain or extinguish a fire, and prevent costly damages. 

Often overlooked devices but they can be a key component in keeping you and your family safe during a fire emergency. Although they're only suitable for use on small fires, extinguishers are nonetheless a crucial piece of equipment in combating a home or workplace fire. Larger fires need the attendance of emergency services.

It's important that everyone in your household and your employees have the proper training and education to use a fire extinguisher. 

Fire extinguisher's can save lives and minimize damage to your property. Many adults might not know how or when to use a fire extinguisher.

Do you have the proper type in your home, business, or other places that may require a certain one?

Here is a link of the five primary types of fire extinguishers, each designed to put out different kinds of fires. https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/extinguishers.html

A few key tips everyone should know:

• It's a good idea to have multiple fire extinguishers around in your home or business depending on the size.
• The kitchen, garage, main workspaces, and warehouses are all places that should have one.
• Although there are many different types for various classes of fires, it's important to provide the right type depending on your business. 
• A common ABC Extinguisher will put out just about any kind of fire except hot metal fires, in which case you would use a Class D.
• Fire extinguishers should be placed in a clear, un-cluttered, and opened area where everyone knows how to locate them.
• Extinguishers should always be up to date, tested annually, and properly inspected. 
• As always have your emergency fire escape plan ready and if the fire continues to grow despite your fire extinguishing efforts, exit and call 9-1-1 immediately. 

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is proud to serve in our community and surrounding areas. We are always ready to help in the event of a fire. Specializing in smoke damage, and fire damage cleanup and restoration. Locally owned and operated (360)703-3884.

Winter gutter maintenance, before it's to late.

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Don't strike out this winter, waiting till the damage is done.

The colder temperatures are here and we'll soon be cleaning the frost/ice off our windshields in the morning and making sure are cars are warmed before we leave for work. Spending time outside is not ideal, especially if it's to preform yard work and maintenance. 

Harsher weather is often accompanied by strong winds and drastic rain fall, which is why it's a great time to clean and check your roof and gutters. Performing these tasks is very important, to ensure your home is safe from flood and water damage. The gutters of your home and business are frequently neglected due to there visibility. 

To help keep water away from your roof and foundation, gutters need to be cleared of any clogs or blockage made by leaves and debris. It's recommended to clean your gutters at least 1-4 times a year and more frequently if you have overhanging trees. Also, clean clogged gutters after big storms.

How to clean your gutters:

• Wear a shirt with long sleeves, and rubber gloves.
• Have a good extendable ladder available. Standoff stabilizers are ideal to keep the ladder from damaging the gutter.
• Use a small plastic scoop to remove gunk (A Childs sand shovel works great).
• Lay down a plastic tarp, to catch the debris.
• After you’ve cleared the muck, flush the gutters and downspouts with a garden hose (Also, a great way to spot any leaks).

Benefits of gutter cleaning:

1. To prevent water damage to your home.
2. Avoid nesting areas for termites, birds, and insects.
3. Avert mold and bacteria.
4. Prevent destruction of expensive landscaping.
5. Stop ice build up and damage.
6. Maintain the value and beauty of your home. 

However, we can't always prevent the inevitable, which is why SERVPRO is always prepared for all of your restoration emergency's. SERVPRO of Lonview/Kelso Specializing in Water Damage cleanup and restoration (360)703-3884!

Quick action to a commercial fire can equal big savings.

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Firefighting efforts can be more complicated with larger commercial buildings and businesses.

If your business or commercial property experiences a fire, it can be ravaging and excessively overwhelming. On top of fire, smoke, and soot damage your business may endure water damage caused by the efforts of extinguishing the fire. Similarly to water damage, fire and smoke damage worsens the longer you wait to call a professional.  

We know that fire damage is devastating, but it's still not over when the fire is out. Every moment spent out of the office costs your business productivity and a accumulating loss of revenue.

Smoke and water do more damage than most people realize. Some of the services we offer are:

• Removal of smoke and odor
• Cleaning and sanitizing
• Professional deodorization
• Removal of carpets and pads if required

If you have a fire emergency, don't wait to call SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso. We are fully equipped and ready to handle any size loss.   

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Locally Owned and Operated 
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Highly Trained Fire Restoration Technicians

If a fire has damaged your business, SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is available to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Professional fire and smoke mitigation is essential to restore your commercial property to it's pre-fire condition. Let us help get you back in to business (360)703-3884!

Proper Restoration After a House Fire.

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

The damage from smoke, soot, and ash is daunting. Consult your professional smoke mitigation team at SERVPRO today!

Fires can be concerning for homeowners and property managers all year-round, but with the winter approaching, this is a good time to make certain you are properly prepared. The rate of home fires rise during the winter. So it is important to be watchful. A few things you can do now to ensure the safety of your family.

1. Establish and practice a fire escape plan with all members of your home.
2. Guarantee that your smoke detectors are working.
3. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

Our fire technicians here at SERVPRO are highly trained in fire restoration and cleanup. To handle your home, contents, and air quality. Ensuring the cleanup is thorough and your things are fully restored to their pre-fire conditions. Here are some of the cleaning and services we provide:

Structural Cleaning

Structural damage in a fire can affect almost every aspect of a home, including floors, walls and ceilings. By performing initial testing, we can determine the severity of the damage and what equipment we will need to utilize for restoration. We can provide restructuring, cleaning and even paint preparation for most surfaces in the home.

Content Cleaning

Using wet and dry cleaning equipment, we are able to restore many of your home’s contents during the process as well. This is often more cost-effective than replacing your items and allows you to keep your belongings intact. We can fully clean and deodorize many items, such as kitchen wares, furniture, collectibles, and much more.

Deodorization Services

The lingering odors from a fire are not just a nuisance they can be dangerous, too. Making it vital that the air is scrubbed and purified properly following a fire. Thankfully, we have the technology and expertise to handle this for you, so you do not have to worry about the health of your family due to poor air quality in the home.

If you’ve been affected by a fire, SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso can help you recover. Give us a call right away to minimze furthering damage (360)703-3884.

Restoration services for Commercial property's.

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial property and business owners should always be prepared, what will you do if a emergency disaster strikes?

A commercial property is commonly at a higher risk of experiencing different types of damage. If your business is affected by a disaster, you’ll need a commercial restoration company with experience and resources to return your property to its preloss condition fast. 

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso has a considerable amount of experience in residential and commercial restoration services. Our team of experts offers a variety of services such as:

• Commercial water damage restoration
• Commercial fire damage restoration
• Commercial mold damage remediation 
• Commercial storm damage restoration

Our professionals have the training and equipment needed to restore your business after common issues with minimal interruption to your daily operations if possible. SERVPRO also provides disaster planning to ensure that your property is protected in case future damage occurs!

At SERVPRO, we offer 24/7 commercial restoration services for damage caused by water, fire, smoke, mold, storms, and other disasters

Why SERVPRO Commercial Restoration Services:

What makes SERVPRO Restoration different from other commercial restoration businesses?

We offer multiple services through one point of contact. This means you only need one number to reach our emergency services mitigation, contents cleaning, insurance claims assistance, and disaster planning teams. You can depend on us for additional commercial damage services like cost savings and online emergency ready planning.

SERVPRO has great dedication, resourcefulness, and outstanding customer service. Our franchise organization is proud to provide fast, high-quality cleanup and restoration services to both commercial and residential properties. 

Locally Owned and Operated SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884.

Water damage after a frozen pipe bursts

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

When temperatures drop to 20 F. or below this winter. It's time to actively monitor your pipes for leaks and prevent freezing.

When temperatures drop below freezing during the winter months. Exposed pipes especially in the crawl space, basement, attic and near the exterior walls become at risk. Resulting in extensive Water Damage and costly repairs. 

As the water in your pipes slowly freezes, the pressure will begin to increase. If the pressure is allowed to build, then the pipes will not be able to contain the frozen water within and can cause the pipes to break, crack and burst.

What you can do to protect pipes

• Allow faucets to drip, to minimize pressure build up and keep water moving.
• Insulate pipes. 
• Open cabinet doors, to allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing.
• Maintain pipes and routinely inspect to avoid unknown water leaks.  
• Always keep the thermostat on even when you are not home.
• Keep garage door closed and interior doors open.

It's important to winterize your home before winter sets in. Foam pipe insulation is a inexpensive way to protect and prevent freezing. Evan if you plan on being away for the holidays, it is recommended to follow some of these guidelines.

If you still end up with frozen pipes

Thawing a frozen water pipe quickly is important. However, it is just as considerable to thaw the frozen pipe correctly. How to safely get the water flowing and to help you avoid a pipe burst.

• Turn the main water valve off.
• Locate the frozen pipes.
• Open the faucet before you begin trying to thaw the pipe.
• Always start the thawing process closes to the faucet to avoid bursting or cracking the pipe(s).
• Use a hair dryer or other heat source to safely begin thawing.
• Once you have unthawed the pipes, it's important to check and monitor your water meter for any unseen leaks.

Even a small crack or tear can send hundreds of gallons of water each minute into your home. So taking reasonable precautions to protect your property is substantial. https://www.hunker.com/13722307/hunkermade

Your locally owned SERVPRO understands that not all disasters can be avoided. A leaky or burst pipe can occur anywhere and at anytime. Our highly trained water restoration technicians are fully prepared to respond to emergency services 24-Hours.

Immediate action is considerably large to limit any damage. We have the expertise and equipment to professionally restore your property. Give us a call SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso (360)703-3884. We'll conduct a advanced water inspection, complete extraction, and use our high-end drying equipment and techniques to restore your home. "Like it never evan happened" Locally owned and operated!

Plugging in the heat on safety

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Never plug your portable heating equipment into a power strip or extension cord.

The cold winter months are here and the heaters are being turned up. As we sit nestled in our homes and all snug in our blankets. SERVPRO would like to discuss a few safety tips before you dig out and setup your space heaters. 

Space heaters are popular devices for several reasons. They're small and compact, considerably cost efficient, and they can keep your family's warm. However, they are also one of the leading causes of fires during the winter and are responsible for nearly 80% of home heating fires.

If you are going to use any sort of portable heaters in your home, we would like to share some important safety tips with you.

Essential safety precautions: 

• Always plug your heaters directly into the wall (Never us extension cords or power strips).
• Keep anything that can burn at least 3ft away including blankets, furniture, drapes and electronics ext. 
• Insure your smoke alarms/ carbon monoxide alarms are working properly.
• Do not allow children or pets near.
• Always follow the manufacturers instructions.
• Avoid placing them on carpet or area rugs.
• Turn off heaters when unattended and before bed.

When improperly used, space heaters can carry a vary high price if a fire happens. 

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/why-you-should-not-plug-space-heaters-into-power-strips-according-to-fire-departments/?fbclid=IwAR1CxMliNviKdFf6StkoyiaGcP3t

Extension cords and/or power strips are not designed to handle the high current flow needed for space heaters and can over heat and cause a fire. Although they are small the amount of electricity used to power them can overload the circuit and cause the extension cord to overheat.

Several of the newer models have a tip over switch, touch sensor, over heat protection, and also a longer power cord. Space heaters are one of those items that don't often get replaced and although it is recommended because the older models can potentially be more dangerous. Evan the newer models of heaters can be dangerous if used improperly. 

In a instant tragedy can happen, so always safely and responsibly plug in your heaters!

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso wishing everyone a safe and warm holiday!

As always if you or someone you know experiences a house fire we are always here to help. 

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso Fire & water - Cleanup & Restoration 1425 Alabama St. Suit M Longview, WA 98632 (360)703-3884

Categories of water and how they are assessed.

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

In over our heads, with no place to sit. No water loss is to big or to small, so give us a call.

When we get the call for a water loss or emergency, you may be asking why we want to know "Where the water is from" and "How much has it affected". Amongst several other questions we need to ask. Here at SERVPRO from the initial phone call, to when our technicians arrive. We are assessing the damage and categorizing the type of water and classifications. 

Assessing the severity of the damage is important to determine what is needed to start the restoration and water removal process. A few of the various reasons we categorize is:

1. To know the level of care our technicians must take to safely work.
2. Preparing what equipment or tools are needed to quickly respond to the job.
3. To best advise you of other safety measures you may need to take and helpful advise to minimize damage if possible.

The 3 Categories and what they mean:

• Category 1 water/clean water

A clean source like a broken water line, appliances, sink overflow ext. The water in category 1 in other words is considered sanitary and is not yet a substantial risk.

• Category 2 water/ gray water

Water is significantly contaminated and can be harmful if consumed. Sources that may cause this type of water damage include toilets, sump pumps, and sewage.

• Category 3 water/ black water

Unsanitary water that contains bacteria, untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes. Flooding rivers and sewage backups are a couple sources that may cause this water damage but standing water and storm surges also are highly contaminated too. 

We also use different classifications to help determine the extent of the water damage, you may have experienced. Which is why we ask "How much has it affected". It's important because it helps us know what drying techniques to use, the amount of equipment to set-up and how long the drying process may take.

4 Water classifications:

• Class 1 The least harmful because affected materials absorb only small amounts of the water and involves less absorption and evaporation. Commonly only a small portion of a room is affected.
• Class 2  A larger amount of water that has a fast rate of evaporation. Which means carpets and pads are affected, however water has not wicked up the walls more then 24 inches. Water damage repairs are more difficult. 
• Class 3 The water in this class has the fastest rate of evaporation and the greatest amount of water. It is commonly from overhead sources or sprinkler system. It can affect ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet/pad and subflooring. Class 3 is when the entire area is affected.
• Class 4 We often use this class for specialty drying situations. It affects materials with low permeance and porosity and can have longer drying times and methods. Types of damage can affect hardwood flooring, plaster and concrete. 

If water extraction isn't prompt the wet surfaces can be at risk for permanent and extended damage. If the different categories of water (category 1,2 & 3) are left untreated; for example category 1 can degrade to a category 2 or 3. We call these water changing categories. Which is why your locally owned SERVPRO responds to water damage restoration emergencies 24 hours a day. 

We are prepared to help, no matter the category or class of your water emergency. We have seen it all! 

SERVPRO of Longview/kelso is always ready when you need us. Trusted, local and ready to restore.

Your water damage needs are not going to wait, so why should you. Give us a call at (360)703-3884 and let our trained and certified water technicians do the rest!

Fireplace and wood-stove safety.

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

A warm and cozy fire can quickly become dangerous if not safely handled and prepared.

The holidays are full of baked goods, holiday lights, festive décor and warm fires. All of which can potentially lead to a home fire. So it's a important time of year to practice safety!

We know that during the winter months, fireplaces and wood-stoves are used greatly to heat many homes. Which is why we want to remind everyone how important it is to maintain and properly operate your stoves and fireplaces.

In the U.S. The 2nd leading cause of home fires are from heating systems, fireplaces are a part of those statistics. So preventative maintenance and annually inspections are crucial. 

A few things to inspect regularly:

• Door seals
• Overheating 
• Pipe, stones, mortar, or chimney bricks.

Proper maintenance will help keep your heating system operating safely. Always correctly dispose of ashes. One inch of ash will cause a fire to make more smoke. It's important to never put ash in a garbage bin indoors/or out. To properly clean and dispose of ash, you have to make sure it is cooled before shoveling it into a metal container with a lid. An remember to never store it near your home or firewood. 

Consider the type of wood you are burning and where it is being stored. Green or young wood have higher moister content and cause a lot of smoke and more build up of creosote. https://www.doctorflue.com/blog/what-is-creosote/ It's best to use seasoned or dried wood  that has been split for a safer fire. Storing your firewood in a dry place is also something to remember either a wood shed or garage to avoid moister. 

A few safety tips to remember: 

• Always have a fire extinguisher near your fireplace/stove.
• Start fire properly.
• Install a chimney cap.
• Never store matches, lighters, or other fire starters within 3ft of the wood-stove or fireplace.
• Keep area clear of flammable items; Drapes, carpet, furniture and newspaper ext.
• Never overload a fire or burn other debris.
• Supervise small children and pets.
• Extinguish fire before bed. 

A small flame can get out of control within 30 seconds. So it's very important to be sure all smoke/ carbon monoxide detectors are working and everyone knows your homes fire escape plan.

We know how damaging chimney fires can be to your home. SERVPRO specializes in smoke and odor remediation and indoor air quality. If you ever experience a home fire give us a call (360)703-3884 as soon as the fire is put out, to prevent any further damage from occurring.

Specializing in fire & water-cleanup & restoration. SERVPRO of Longview/kelso locally owned and operated.

We're always ready to help!

When was the last time you had your crawl space and attic inspected?

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Crawl space with a new moister barrier.

We are heading into the harsh winter months in the Pacific Northwest and with that you know, we can all expect heavy rains and freezing temperatures.

Having a clean, safe and healthy home is a top priority for every homeowner. The crawl space and attic are critical aspects to maintaining your property. Although these areas are often over looked because of there "lack of visibility". It is important to have them regularly cleaned and inspected.

So how often should these areas be inspected?

It is recommended that you have it professionally inspected at least 1 a year and that homeowners do there own every 6 months for preventative care.

When we think of "spring cleaning" the attic and crawl space are areas that often get neglected or forgotten. Since these spaces can be difficult to access and are not exactly favorable. It can be very beneficial to add them to your to-do list! Spring months can cause extra moister and dampness in your attic and it is an important time to make sure your insulation is not affected.

What to look for when conducting a inspection:

• Cracks and leaks in the pipes.
• Musty odors, unpleasant smells and mold.
• Presence of rodents/pests.
• Flooding and/or water damage.
• Rusting of medal beams and water pipes.
• Displaced or damaged insulation.

The harshness of winter can also reek major havoc on these areas. It's the time of year that attracts insects, wildlife and rodents to seek shelter. So repairing any holes in your attic and crawl space and having them completely sealed off will prevent infestations.

Anytime after unfavorable weather conditions it can be highly recommended too. Heavy rains and high winds after a storm can result in flooding and misplaced or damaged roof shingles.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso are professionally trained and ready to help! We offer a variety of cleaning and restoration services to help with maintaining your attic and crawl space.

Regularly inspecting and maintaining your attic and crawl space can be incredibly beneficial. It can improve the air quality of your home because about 40% of your homes air comes from the crawl space. It also can extend the life of your homes structure and save you money on your energy bill!

If you have recently discovered any water or mold damage inside your crawl space/attic. Do not hesitate to call, your locally owned SERVPRO of Longview/kelso at (360)703-3884.

Our trained and certified mold remediation technicians can locate the source of moisture and get it dried out in no time. Our technicians will remove any wet insulation, treat the mold and mildew with a anti-microbial solution and many other necessary measures to make sure your home is a comfortable and healthier environment for your family!

 SERVPRO " Like it never even happened"

Tis The Season for Safety

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

A perfectly cooked Turkey, without a singe!

The Holiday season is a joyous time spent with friends and family. It's the time of year that we celebrate with traditions and home cooked meals. During this season we often get so busy with planning and hosting that we may forget to practice safety. Although accidents can occur your local SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso would like to share a few tips to help you prepare for a safe and disaster free Holiday season.

The colder months are nearing upon us and as families, more time is spent indoors. It's important to update emergency escape plans and share with all members of the household. 

With the colder weather and holiday season, the kitchen is going to be where we spend most of our time! 

Whether we are preparing a big holiday meal or snacks for the children, It is important to practice safety while cooking or baking. The leading cause of house fires are from unattended food and significantly increase during the Holidays.

Holiday Meal Prep. safety tips:

• The most important is to never leave food unattended while cooking.
• Have children and pets stay free of the area. 
• Keep flammable items away from the Oven/Stovetop such as Cooking Utensils, Plastics, and Hand towels ext.
• Avoid loose clothing or long-sleeves.
• As always keep the Stovetop clean from any grease or spills.

It can be very easy to get distracted with guests over. So remember to always have a Fire extinguisher handy (Check the date), Set a timer when cooking, and always make sure smoke detectors are working!  

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/holiday-fire-safety.html

Of course there are several other Safety tips other than burnt turkeys and kitchen fires. We should all use to protect ourselves and families. 

I've included a link to the American Red cross, that has a lot of great tips to help keep us safe.

At SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso we know that not always can hazards be completely avoided and accidents do happen. The holidays can be a very difficult time to experience any kind of disaster but if it strikes, we are here to help! SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso wishing you all a happy and safe holidays! 

Water Damage Response Tips for Homeowners

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage will strike when you least expect it in your Longview, WA home.  When it does, be sure to call the bright green cleanup team, SERVPRO.  Here are some helpful tips to perform before we arrive.

• Shut off the water source if possible
• Remove excess water by mopping
• Place aluminum foil under furniture legs
• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature.
• Remove oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Do not use regular vacuum to remove water
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep away of areas where ceiling are sagging from retained water
• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpeting

Performing these tasks could help further damage to your home. 

Annual Day of Caring

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO logo Centered between two other Outstanding Community Partners.

Every year on the second Wednesday in September the United Way of Cowlitz and Wahkiakum County host their Annual Day of Caring. Many local non-profit agencies sign up to have volunteers come and help clean up their building or grounds. Literally hundreds of volunteers, young and old, come together on this day to help. Various work-type projects include painting, presser washing, weeding gardens, cutting back shrubs and planting flowers. Removing leaves from clogged gutters and roof tops. Folding and rearranging clothing, shoveling and spreading rock and many other tasks that need to be completed on this one day. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso has been a proud supporter of Annual Day of Caring since 2011. Annual Day of Caring is a day for us all to come together, with our friends in business and our friends in our community, to help those who strive to help others. The 501c3's (non profits) have a purpose and that purpose is to help those who need it. I would say that sounds similar to SERVPRO's purpose.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso Annual Blood Drive

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Burgers and hot dogs were cooking all day as donors showed up.

Every year SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso teams up with the American Red Cross here at our location in Longview, WA to put on a blood drive like no other. Shawn Green, our Marketing Manager recruits local businesses to donate different items to be included in a Swag Bag to all donors.  We also provided lunch, which included burgers, hot dogs and a ton of sides.  In all, we had a total of 42 donors give blood throughout the day. This resulted in 37 usable pints of blood that could be used to save a life in our community.  We've been notified by the Red Cross that this drive is one of the most successful of its kind in southwest Washington.  We thank all of the donors and sponsors for this very successful event that we plan to do again next summer.

October is Fire Safety Awareness Month

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Kylee holds up an art project she did this week while learning about fire safety and calling 911. "Ordering a Pizza is not an emergency" she said.

Fire Safety Awareness week is in full force here in Longview, WA.  Local preschools have made an effort to get children into fire stations to meet firefighters and learn some of the dangers in the home as well as what type of planning should be done in case of a fire.  This week is a perfect time to talk to your children about fire safety.

Did you know:

• 3 of every 5 home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no working smoke alarms.
• Less than 50% of homeowners have an escape plan
• Carbon Monoxide is the #1 cause of accidental death
• 60% of consumers do not test their smoke and CO alarms monthly
• Only 47% of people report having CO alarms in their home
• Just 43% of homeowners have an escape plan

Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue will be having an open house this Saturday the 12th from 11am to 2pm in Kelso.

Longview Fire Department Main Station will also hold an open house from 10am to 2pm with Smokey Bear and Sparky the Fire Dog

What is Black Mold

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

When a musty moldish smell fills the air in a room/home, you could have a mold issue, Call SERVPRO or Longview/Kelso before it becomes a problem.

You may have seen sensational news reports that warn about the dangers of “black mold” or “toxic mold”. These reports can be alarming and confusing so it’s beneficial to get the facts to better understand mold.

Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called black mold, and it does produce allergens and irritants. However, many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants. Treat any mold with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold.

Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by visiting Mold Damage Tips. 

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can cause reactions, you should contact us regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold may exist in the same house or structure.

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic, 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 that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

How A Water Restoration Technician Assists After Disaster

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

Call 360-703-3884 when you are in need of our professional service.

A SERVPRO water restoration technician has an extremely important job when a business or home is affected by excess moisture or fluid. Our certified professionals can quickly reverse the extensive damage that a flood, a pipe break or sewage backflow can cause, and save as many items as possible in the process. And when dealing with contaminated fluids, especially when it has pooled in the home, only certified professionals should be allowed to manage the cleanup. Attempting to perform cleanup efforts without expert assistance can lead to injury or illness, both of which can be severe.

A SERVPRO certified water restoration technician is on call around the clock, except for those times when an entire community has been affected by a major disaster. As soon as a professional is on site, they will assess the situation and determine what items need immediate rescuing. If fluid has pooled in areas around the home, then pumps will be used to remove it.

The amount of damage water can cause is amazing, and often underestimated by business owners and homeowners. Excess moisture is bad enough, but when a business or home is flooded or hit with a plumbing disaster (like a burst pipe), the situation can quickly get out of hand. There’s a reason why these incidents are among the most expensive problems a homeowner can face. Contaminated water not only creates immediate structural problems, it can leave serious biological threats behind after it has been removed.

Floods, sewage backflows, and other sources of contaminated fluid usually cause the worst damage. Dirty water is filled with all kinds of deadly substances, ranging from chemical residues to animal feces to parasites. Bacteria, viruses and fungi grow explosively in contaminated fluid, and severe health risks, like salmonella and hepatitis, are common in flood waters.

This problem is compounded by the composition of most businesses and homes, which are filled with organic materials. Drywall, wood and the matter that is trapped in carpet fibers are just a few examples, and they can give pathogens room to grow. Within 48 hours, mold may begin creeping behind the walls and releasing spores, and any organic materials that have been soaked through by contaminated fluid will usually have to be destroyed.

We, SERVPRO, will dry the business or home quickly and apply antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents to all surfaces that had contact with the water. This ensures the family can return to a safe home, and not one harboring a collection of deadly pathogens.

No one wants a house fire.

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires are the number one location as to where a fire starts. If we are needed, call 360-703-3884 and let us help you.

If a house or business sustains fire damage, proper cleanup is crucial as the ash, soot and water will wreak havoc on what remains.  It’s bad enough there was a fire, but the water and chemicals used to extinguish it can cause secondary damage.  The remnants will continue to do damage long after the flames are extinguished.

The average person will attempt conventional cleaning methods like renting a steam cleaner and using common cleaning agents available at the store.  Unfortunately, this will barely make an impact on the problem and could cause bigger issues.  Chemical agents could react with the residue and cause permanent damage, and in some cases, they may cause toxic fumes.  Fire damage cleanup is one of the most difficult jobs out there, and it should be left to a certified SERVPRO professional for the best results.

When selecting a firm that does the restoration, consider what type of training they have. Do they have health and safety certifications? Are they experienced in a wide range of repair? Do they have proof of proper insurance and licenses?  The company that has the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) fire and smoke restoration Certified Firm meets all of these expectations and conditions. An IICRC-certified firm at SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso, understands the need for a quick response.  Immediate action is necessary because the longer the delay, the harder and more costly the job will be as reactions within the damaged material can continue to occur. The fire may be gone, but the ash, soot and smoke odors that remain can continue to do harm. We will use our knowledge of fire restoration to accurately test the damage and apply the proper repair techniques to bring the items back to preloss condition when possible.

Also, when hiring an IICRC certified firm you can be sure that they are up to date with the latest technologies and techniques. In order for these firms to keep their certification, they are required to take continuing education programs.  So when confronted with fire damage cleanup, choose an IICRC-certified professionals. Choose SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso.

WHOOPS! Will YOUR Carpet Shrink?

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO also specializes in Professional Carpet Cleaning. 360-703-3884

It's an interesting question. The last thing you need is an expensive carpet shrinking after it has been cleaned - thus rendering it, well possibly useless! You may want a carpet cleaned for health reasons, the visual aspect or even after decorating a room?, and why not - it's a sensible thing to do, but disasters can happen! On a professional level we have seen many shrunken carpets, and we usually hear that they cannot contact the cleaning company who carried out the cleaning, which isn't good. So to avoid the stress, anger and worry of this, we need to know why this is happens.

What, carpets can shrink? There are general 2 types of carpet that can shrink: Axminsters & Wiltons. A genuine axminster carpet will have a wool face fibre (the bit that you walk on) and a jute backing yarn (the woven bit on the back) that interweaves with the wool fibre. It's pretty hard to shrink an Axminster but when the jute becomes wet through poor cleaning, then the backing could shrink. The wiltons that can shrink are what we call Belgian Wiltons, because traditionally a lot of these are made of a polypropylene face fibre - with a jute backing, just like the axminster (this is opposed to a good quality wilton which is made of wool). But because the polypropylene cannot hold on to hardly any moisture, it goes straight to the bottom of the pile into the backing, and shrinks the carpet. To check if you have a belgian wilton, peel back your carpet, and see if the pattern is duplicated and visible on the back - the same as the face pile. It's not a 100% check because you may not have a polypropylene pile fibre - but if you do have this, get the cleaning company to double check prior to cleaning.

Why Do They Shrink? The main reason why they shrink is poor cleaning. What I mean is, it's either underpowered equipment or just bad technique. If the cleaning machine is cheap (and thus small) it cannot extract enough water out of the carpet, which means the carpet may then shrink. Bad technique could just be down to cleaners applying too much pre-spray cleaning agents, and too much water in the rinsing action. The physical action of why the carpet shrinks is the jute backing, when wet, essentially swell up and expand, thus needing more space and causing stress on the structure. It's this action that causes the shrinkage.

How Can You Avoid Them Shrinking? Well if you have a belgian wilton then it could still be cleaned - but it needs to be done properly and safely. But there lies the problem, how do you know how to get it done without it shrinking? By choosing a cleaning company that has extensive training on these issues is a good indicator of reliability, but one who also uses the most powerful machinery possible will usually ensure your carpet is safe.

Restoring Your Cowlitz County Commercial Property after a Water Damage Event

8/3/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events in Cowlitz County commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Cowlitz County Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/3/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 360-703-3884

Cowlitz County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/3/2016 (Permalink)

 Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 360-703-3884

Cowlitz County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/3/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help. Call Today – 360-703-3884

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

About SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.