Water Damage? Here's What to Do

11/4/2024 (Permalink)

Not sure what to do if you have water damage. Give us a call!

Every week, numerous property owners contact us because their homes or businesses have been affected by flooding, leaks, or other water damage. While many go years without experiencing such incidents, this often means they're unprepared when they do occur. At SERVPRO® of Wilkes and Alleghany Counties, we've helped thousands of water damage victims clean and restore their properties. That's why we're sharing what you should expect and the steps you should take if your property is affected.

Steps to Protect Your Property

If you're dealing with water damage, you don't have to handle it alone. Here are three steps to get the help you need:

1. Address the Water Source: Identify what's causing the damage and fix it at the source. If it's a broken pipe, shut off the water supply and call a plumber. In cases like storm flooding, you may need to wait until the event has passed before seeking help.

2. Contact a Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration Company: Unaddressed water damage can lead to mold growth and compromise your property's structural integrity. Reach out to a water mitigation company as soon as possible. They can extract water, dry affected areas, and apply antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold. If mold is already present, companies like SERVPRO® can perform mold remediation.

3. Call Your Insurance Company: Water damage can be costly, but your insurance may cover much of the expense. Contact your local representative to review your coverage; this could save you significant out-of-pocket costs. A local water mitigation company will typically work with your insurance provider on your behalf.

We're Water Cleanup Professionals

Water can cause significant damage to your property, but by following these steps, you can stay in control. At SERVPRO® of Wilkes and Alleghany Counties, our cleanup and restoration team is always ready to help you recover from water damage. If you experience an incident, give us a call at(828) 396-1070!

How We Help Local Businesses with Essential Restoration Services in Wilkes and Allegheny Counties

10/9/2024 (Permalink)

Our crew can perform HVAC cleanings in addition to our core cleanup and restoration services!

Many people recognize us for assisting homeowners with fire, water, and mold damage restoration, but did you know we also provide crucial services to businesses and commercial properties? While fire and water restoration remain central to our mission, we offer a variety of additional services tailored to support and protect businesses throughout Wilkes and Allegheny Counties.

Sewage Cleanup: Sewage backups can pose significant challenges for any business, especially for restaurants and healthcare facilities where cleanliness is paramount. Our skilled team responds promptly to sewage issues, thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing affected areas to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and ensure a safe environment for your employees and customers.

Biohazard Cleanup: Biohazard situations can range from crime scenes and medical incidents to accidental spills of hazardous materials. These events require specialized handling and disposal procedures. Our certified professionals are trained to manage these sensitive situations with discretion and efficiency, restoring your business premises to safe conditions as quickly as possible.

HVAC System Cleaning: Over time, dust, debris, and other contaminants can accumulate in a business's HVAC system, leading to poor indoor air quality and decreased system efficiency. We provide comprehensive HVAC cleaning services to improve air circulation, enhance system performance, and promote a healthier environment for everyone in your facility.

Whether your business faces an unexpected emergency or needs routine maintenance services, we're here to help. We've proudly supported numerous commercial property owners in Wilkes and Allegheny Counties, and our dedicated team is available 24/7 to provide the assistance you need. If your business requires our services, don't hesitate to contact us at any time!

Why Professional Restoration is Crucial After a Fire

8/1/2024 (Permalink)

When the fire trucks leave, the visible flames may be extinguished, but the real damage is often just beginning. Addressing the aftermath of a fire, whether in a home or a business, requires professional intervention to restore the property to its original state. Attempting to handle this on your own could lead to costly mistakes and prolonged damage.

Certified restoration experts understand that delays in neutralizing, controlling corrosion, and cleaning up can significantly increase the damage and overall restoration costs. Homeowners who hesitate to begin the restoration process can unintentionally worsen the damage caused by smoke and soot exposure. Here's a breakdown of how fire and smoke can affect a property over time:

Within Minutes: Acidic soot residues can cause plastics to yellow, discolor small appliances near the fire source, and permanently stain porous materials like marble and alabaster.

Within Hours: Acidic residues can stain bathroom grout, yellow fiberglass bath fixtures, tarnish uncoated metals, discolor countertops, and yellow appliance finishes, especially on refrigerators. Additionally, furniture finishes may start to discolor.

For reliable results, the IICRC recommends hiring a certified restoration firm. Restoring a property after a fire is a complex process that demands specialized knowledge, particularly in smoke and odor removal, which certified technicians are trained to handle.

When choosing a certified restoration firm, consider the following:

• Up-to-date specialized training
• Health and safety certifications
• Extensive experience with various restoration projects
• Valid insurance and licenses

These qualifications ensure that the restoration process is handled professionally and effectively, minimizing further damage and helping to restore your property as quickly as possible.