Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts
The Protective Gear Used in Mold Cleanup
7/29/2022 (Permalink)
When technicians arrive at your Cookeville, TN, home to tackle a mold issue, you may be surprised to see those professionals wearing face masks and other protective gear. You may wonder what's going on and whether you should be worried. The good news is that protective gear is often used to prevent mold spores from traveling through your home.
Personal Protective Equipment
The correct use of PPE makes it easier for professionals to complete their cleanup and repairs. Don't be surprised when you see technicians wearing a full protective suit:
- Coveralls with a hood
- Boots or booties covering shoes
- Disposable hair coverings
- Gloves
- Face masks
There may be slight variations in these items. For example, the disposable hair coverings may not be worn if the coveralls have a hood. Some technicians may wear disposable gloves and others may use gloves that are washed thoroughly.
Beyond Personal Gear
Protective equipment doesn't end with the gear that technicians wear. In addition to their protective clothing, mold damage cleanup and remediation professionals may also carry some heavy equipment with them. This equipment may include vacuums with HEPA filters, heavy plastic for containing mold spores, and a negative air machine that pulls spores from the air.
Containment Steps
There are many reasons to be careful when working around mold, and one of the most important is making sure that spores are contained. A single bit of mold traveling outside of the affected area can lead to new growth. Technicians are very careful not to allow this to happen.
A Professional Touch
When it comes to cleaning up mold safely, it's important to contact SERVPRO of Cookeville professionals. These technicians have completed training, worked with experienced mentors, and gained access to the tools and supplies necessary to respond to mold damage without spreading it to other areas of the home. When you see technicians wearing face masks, remember that they are just one piece of the safety equipment used in cleaning up mold.
Three Facts About Chemical Drain Cleaners
7/29/2022 (Permalink)
Three Facts About Chemical Drain Cleaners
Maintaining the building of your the Upper Cumberland, business involves many different processes and procedures. Daily cleaning and regular maintenance are consuming tasks. If you’ve never experienced problems with a clogged drain, you may not know the best way to handle it. Here are three facts about drain cleaner so that you’re prepared for this type of situation.
1. Damaging
If you’re unfamiliar with clogs in pipes, your first reaction may be to just pour drain cleaner in the pipe. Unfortunately, what you may not know is that the cleaner can cause damage to pipes. This is because the chemicals produce heat which may damage vulnerable pipes. A powerful chemical pipe cleaner may cause more harm than good, especially with pipes and situations such as the following:
- Old metal pipes
- Plastic pipes
- When used incorrectly
2. Ineffective
A chemical cleaner is supposed to work on a clogged drain by creating an electron transfer to the substance causing the clog. This transfer produces heat which should disintegrate the clog. Unfortunately, when the substance is composed of fat, oil, or grease, many times the chemical is unable to break up the substance. The chemical and clog simply sit in the pipe or move down to another area of the pipe.
3. Harmful
Chemical cleaners are some of the most harmful substances available to consumers for sewage cleaning. Just opening the bottle and smelling the cleaner can cause stinging to your eyes and an irritated throat. Chemical cleaners can also burn human skin; therefore, it’s best to keep these types of cleaners away from inexperienced individuals.
If you experience a clogged drain at your business and want to take care of it on your own, try an auger or a biological cleaner. If you want to take care of the problem quickly you can also call a professional cleaning and restoration company to safely and effectively handle the problem.
What Should You Do in a Property Damage Crisis? You Hire SERVPRO of Cookeville.
6/30/2022 (Permalink)
Introduction
You may have heard the expression "when it rains, it pours." Well, when you're staring at a flooded property with damage to your building's contents, that idea takes on new meaning. Running water can cause havoc in homes and commercial buildings alike. A minor issue like a slow drip from an overflowing sink or toilet can turn into tens of thousands of dollars in damages.
What to do when a property damage emergency happens
Most importantly, be sure everyone including your family and pets are safe. If the building is compromised, tell everyone to get out of the building immediately and call 911. Call our SERVPRO of Cookeville team immediately at 931-528-9292. Our IICRC approved technicians will arrive at your home or business within 2 hours for an immediate response, day or night! The sooner we arrive on-site the faster we can begin mitigating the damage.
Next, be sure to call your insurance company to explain the situation. This is the best way to get started with any potential claims process. Because of our deep restoration industry knowledge and experience, our technicians will be sure to document everything according to your insurance company's specifications.
How SERVPRO of Cookeville can help you through a property crisis
If you find yourself in the midst of a building damage crisis, don't hesitate to give us a call. The sooner we respond and begin our mitigation tasks, the less expensive and more effective our service will be for you. Because our focus is property restoration, our teams are trained to assess any kind of property damage to quickly plan and execute an efficient and effective restoration strategy to protect and restore as much of your home, business, and personal belongings as possible. We employ IICRC certified technicians who understand your predicament and know how to quickly help get you back on your feet.
The benefits of working with our SERVPRO team
Working with our SERVPRO team means that you'll get the help you need to get your property back in proper working order faster. For example, here are several things that we do when you choose to work with our team:
Rapid, Advanced Structural Drying - We have the proper restoration equipment for ANY size property loss. From a single affected bathroom to a flooded or burnt 100,000+ sf industrial facility, our teams know exactly how to set up the right equipment at the right time.
Fire & Smoke Restoration - We eliminate smoke damage odors using industrial air scrubbers, fogging equipment, & several specialized cleaning compounds. Just ask us about our Ozone treatment! Whether it's smoke or fire damage in an apartment building or smaller scale of residential, workplace, or vehicle restoration needs, SERVPRO of Cookeville is here to help and capable of it.
Mold Cleaning & Remediation - All molds are not created equal. SERVPRO of Cookeville technicians know how to quickly and safely remove any mold species from your property. In many cases the affected area must be isolated, a containment system put in place, and special equipment brought out to assure that all mold spores are destroyed. Our team has the knowledge and experience to quickly stabilize any dangerous mold infestations.
Employee IICRC Training - SERVPRO of Cookeville employees are trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). This is an international certification organization that ensures our technicians are qualified to serve you in your time of need the way you need it.
The Most Advanced Technology - Our cleaning and restoration equipment & supplies are top of the line. We utilize state-of-the-art technology to properly restore your home, office, or other commercial property back to preloss condition.
Emergency Board Up Services - In many cases it's necessary to board up a building that has been damaged by either a storm event, fire, or water. Our teams know exactly what needs to be done to protect your home or business from further damage.
Commercial Damage Restoration - If you're looking for an experienced commercial damage restoration company in the Upper Cumberland look no further! With our Disaster Response Team certification, we are the number 1 brand in restoration. And we work hard to grow and maintain that reputation of excellence.
How we can help you get your life back on track after a property damage emergency
The fire, the flood, or the storm can leave you feeling overwhelmed and out of control. You need help now to get your life back on track as quickly as possible without having to worry about all the details. SERVPRO offers a range of services designed to help your property return to its preloss condition faster than ever before. And, our service is backed by decades of industry experience and advanced training in how best to restore business value after even the toughest property loss. No matter what kind of damage you're faced with (big or small) we are here for you!
If you hire SERVPRO of Cookeville, you can trust that your property damage crisis is in good hands with our knowledgeable, highly trained technicians on the job. We'll work fast to assess the situation, establish what needs to be done (and how best to do it), and get your home or business back to its former glory.
Call us today to see exactly why SERVPRO of Cookeville is the number 1 trusted property restoration team.
24/7/365. We are Here to Help.
What To Do When You Smell Natural Gas
6/30/2022 (Permalink)
Many Upper Cumberland homeowners use gas of some kind to run their heaters, warm water, clean clothes, or cook meals. Unfortunately, a gas fire at home is more common than you might think. These explosions may be caused by
- Improper installation of gas lines and appliances
- Defects in appliances
- Improper use of gas appliances
- Incorrectly turning gas appliances on or off
When natural gas comes into contact with a spark, an explosion will occur. This spark could result from something as simple as flipping on the light switch. If you notice the telltale rotten egg of gas or hear a hissing sound, there are several things you can do to avoid a gas explosion.
Know Where the Gas Meter Is Located
This meter is usually located outside of your home. Make sure you know how to work the meter, so you can shut it off if you suspect a gas leak. You may need a wrench to move the valve from its on and off positions. If possible, store a wrench so that it's convenient to use during an emergency.
Don't Turn Anything On or Off
If it's plugged in or uses electricity, don't turn it on. One tiny spark is all it takes to ignite the mixture of gas and oxygen. If you have a flashlight convenient, you can use that to safely light your way out of the home.
Check the Stove
If you aren't at risk, check the stove to be sure that all burners are off. One common cause of gas leaks in the home happens when someone bumps into the stove and doesn't notice that the gas has turned on. If the gas is on, turn it off and open windows to ventilate the home. If it isn't on, open the doors and windows and evacuate right away. Contact the gas company immediately.
It is possible to avoid the risk of a gas fire in your home, especially when you're aware of the situations that cause this type of explosion. If you want to know more about avoiding fire damage and keeping your home and family safe, reach out to local authorities, such as property damage cleanup and restoration experts.
3 Ways To Get Rid of Mildew on Plants
6/30/2022 (Permalink)
3 Ways To Get Rid of Mildew on Plants
Mold and mildew tend to thrive in dark and damp conditions. Because the soil in many potted plants is conducive to mold and mildew growth, plant mildew is often an issue for people. These are three ways you can get rid of it.
1. Prevent It From Growing
One of the best ways to eliminate mildew in houseplants is to prevent mildew growth from starting. Whenever you pot a new plant or change the soil in an existing one, use healthy, sterile soil. Don't overwater your plants. Clean debris, such as dead leaves, out of pots and dust the leaves of plants regularly. Make sure your plants have adequate light and ventilation.
Moisture on the leaves of plants can contribute to mildew growth. Water your plants from the bottom, instead of misting the leaves.
2. Remove the Mildew
Plant mildew can be contagious, so it is best to isolate a planet with mildew from your other plants. Pinch off and discard affected leaves. If mildew is widespread, mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a half teaspoon of liquid soap and one gallon of water. Spray this mixture on the affected leaves.
If this method is ineffective, you can try a household fungicide. It is best to take houseplants outside to apply these products.
3. Control Moisture in Your Home
High moisture conditions in the home can promote the growth of mold and mildew. Check your home for sources of moisture, such as leaking pipes. If you are noticing brown or green stains or musty odors in your home, you may have mold growth. Contact SERVPRO of Cookeville to inspect your home and remove mold.
Plant mildew can be a frustrating problem to get rid of. However, following these steps can help you eliminate problems with mold and mildew in your home and prevent them from occurring in the future.
If Disaster Restoration Is The Name, SERVPRO's In The Game! Why You Should Pick SERVPRO For All Your Restoration Needs
6/1/2022 (Permalink)
Natural disasters come unplanned, devastating for a homeowner or business owner. Ideally, you would want to be prepared if water, fire, mold, or storm damage shows up at your doorstep; But sometimes, no amount of preparation can prepare you for the unpredictable. If this happens, SERVPRO of Cookeville are the people to call! With professionalism and empathy being our central tenets, we offer a host of services under the residential and commercial services umbrella. If you need water, fire, storm, or commercial cleaning services, we are your go-to for ALL of your restoration needs!
What Sorts Of Residential Services Do We Provide At SERVPRO Of Cookeville/Carthage/Smithville/Woodbury?
- There's no place like home - but when flooding, soot, or daily wear-and-tear starts to show, it can bring back memories of a trying time. At SERVPRO, we offer residential restoration services for water damage, fire damage, mold damage, and storm damage cleanup and restoration.
- With expertise spanning air ducts and HVAC systems to vandalism and graffiti, we can assure you that we follow all protocols and standard operating procedures for all these scenarios. Our processes start when you call us, where we do an inspection and assessment of your Upper Cumberland property and end with full-scale restoration to bring back the joie de vivre of your home base.
- We also provide odor removal and deodorization services if your place needs a good clean. As experts in deodorization, we are trained to detect and eliminate offensive odors. We remove the airborne contaminants that affect air quality in your Upper Cumberland home by using air scrubbers and thermal foggers. You can breathe easy knowing that we have only the most seasoned professionals on our team!
What Are The Three C's That Make Up Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned?
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is our unique cleaning program tailor-made to your Upper Cumberland business's priorities. With over five decades of experience in biochemical spill remediation and contamination, we welcome a new level of cleanliness to the restoration industry!
- Consult: When you consult us, we'll figure out your business's needs so we can create a cleaning program based on those needs- after all, every business is different!
- Clean: The climax of our program, we use EPA-approved, hospital-grade cleaning solutions to carry out a deep clean, always making sure to adhere to the CDC.
- Certify: The trademark Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield will be displayed on your commercial property's window. This honor is bestowed on those businesses committed to the safety and well-being of their customers and employees.
Do you need residential or commercial restoration services in Cookeville/Carthage/Smithville/Woodbury? SERVPRO of Cookeville can help you out during this rough patch. Several of our team members are IICRC-certified, setting the bar higher in the world of restoration. Our continuous education and training ensure we are at the top of our game so we can make it "Like it never even happened." If you need us, call us at (931) 528-9292. We look forward to working with you!
This franchise is independently owned and operated.
Want Quick Action From Your Insurance Company? Call the Right Cleanup Team
6/14/2021 (Permalink)
Like anyone in Cookeville, TN you dread the thought of water damage or a flood infiltrating your business. If you need immediate help following incidents such as these, you should have two groups on your mind: your insurance agency and a storm restoration company. Both of these essential helpers will help get your business back on track.
Your First Responsibilities
Large thunderstorms, hurricanes, or problems with sewage or plumbing can bring large amounts of water into your office. This flood damage can pose serious health risks and may damage your building and important materials. Make sure do the following without delay:
- Safely exit your building.
- Stay away from any black water.
- Call a disaster relief company.
- Get in touch with your insurance provider.
What the Restoration Team Will Do
Qualified, experienced storm restoration professionals have the skill and equipment to remove all the water from your office and to get your facility back to pre-flood condition. The technicians will inspect the affected area and will then determine what they can salvage and what they must restore or completely replace. The team will extract all water and dry your floors, walls and furniture. They’ll also clean and sanitize all parts of your office.
What Role Does the Insurance Play
You need to provide your insurance company with detailed information about the incident so it knows how to proceed. Your agent will review your policy and discuss with you what it will cover and what, if anything, storm restoration and cleanup costs it will not cover.
How They Work Together
Sometimes, an insurance company will delay claim processing or payment because the storm response team is slow to do its part. A top professional company such as SERVPRO will get on the case quickly to help move the insurance process along.
You need a quick, successful storm restoration response. With SERVPRO and your insurance company working in tandem, you should be in good shape.
Choosing a Large Loss Recovery Firm
6/14/2021 (Permalink)
While any disaster is tough to cope with, large loss incidents present a unique set of challenges. The breadth of damage is larger, and the resources required for repair are equally inflated. It’s key that you get the right team to handle your Cookeville, TN, catastrophic loss or things could get worse. Know what to look for in a large loss team – follow these tips.
What is a Large Loss Event
Generally speaking, a large loss event is one that stretches beyond one or two properties, to encompass an entire neighborhood, region or even larger area. Examples can include;
- hurricanes/storm damage
- widespread flooding
- earthquakes
- terrorist events
These events require a higher magnitude of the response due to size and resources needed.
Look for Experience
While any local cleanup company can claim they know large response, only a few truly have the experience. Ask a prospective cleanup partner for specific examples and strategies used in a wide breadth of disasters. This can help you determine if they can handle your catastrophic loss.
Look for a Big Team
A big loss requires a big response, and that won’t come from a ragtag team. Make sure your prospective partner has a good-sized staff trained to properly respond, manage the project, and restore the affected structure or structures.
Look for Speed
Flooding can cause major damage to your property in just 24 hours or less, so it’s critical that a disaster response team assess the damage and formulate a plan quickly. Make sure to choose a cleanup partner able to arrive within an hour of your phone call.
The way you handle a large catastrophic loss can have implications for years to come. Make sure you do things the right way. Use the above tips to find the right cleanup partner and you won’t regret making the wrong decision.
Want Quick Action From Your Insurance Company? Call the Right Cleanup Team
6/7/2021 (Permalink)
Like anyone in the Upper Cumberland, you dread the thought of water damage or a flood infiltrating your business. If you need immediate help following incidents such as these, you should have two groups on your mind: your insurance agency and a storm restoration company. Both of these essential helpers will help get your business back on track.Your First Responsibilities
Large thunderstorms, hurricanes, or problems with sewage or plumbing can bring large amounts of water into your office. This flood damage can pose serious health risks and may damage your building and important materials. Make sure do the following without delay:
- Safely exit your building.
- Stay away from any black water.
- Call a disaster relief company.
- Get in touch with your insurance provider.
What the Restoration Team Will Do
Qualified, experienced storm restoration professionals have the skill and equipment to remove all the water from your office and to get your facility back to pre-flood condition. The technicians will inspect the affected area and will then determine what they can salvage and what they must restore or completely replace. The team will extract all water and dry your floors, walls and furniture. They’ll also clean and sanitize all parts of your office.
What Role Does the Insurance Play
You need to provide your insurance company with detailed information about the incident so it knows how to proceed. Your agent will review your policy and discuss with you what it will cover and what, if anything, storm restoration and cleanup costs it will not cover.
How They Work Together
Sometimes, an insurance company will delay claim processing or payment because the storm response team is slow to do its part. A top professional company such as SERVPRO will get on the case quickly to help move the insurance process along.
You need a quick, successful storm restoration response. With SERVPRO and your insurance company working in tandem, you should be in good shape.
Cleaning Services
6/7/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Cookeville/Carthage/Smithville/Woodbury knows how hectic life gets. We all get pulled in multiple directions with work, family and friends, and many things can happens. The carpets acquire stains from kids and pets and homes just get dirty. We completely understand that life can get in the way of keeping a house maintained at all times. We have the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service. Our team of dedicated and highly trained residential cleaning specialists that will ease the burden of cleaning of your home. We pride ourselves on the ability to create a safe, clean and comfortable living environment for you and your family.
Residential Cleaning Services include:
The SERVPRO carpet and upholstery cleaning service will not only get out the dirt you see, but will also remove the unwanted dust you don’t. A professionally cleaned carpet and furniture may make all the difference in brightening up a room and freshening up your home.
We all have tasks around the house that don’t make it to the top of our priority list. Properly maintaining your home’s air ducts should not be one of them. Regular duct cleaning can increase your home’s heating and cooling efficiency and improve the quality of the air you and your family breathe.
Your basic cleaning service is not going to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors.
Our experts are ready to assist in the clean up of sewage and other biohazard materials and provide deep cleaning services for your home. Find out more about our franchise professionals.
We do these things and much more!
Call us today to make it "Like it never even happened."
Residential Repair & Restoration
5/12/2021 (Permalink)
Needing residential restoration services is not something that customers typically plan for, and it’s natural to not know what to expect when your home requires repair.
In these cases, you can trust SERVPRO of Cookeville/Carthage/Smithville/Woodbury to expertly handle any repair and restoration work on your home.
Our goal is to make the process as easy as possible for our customers, so we oversee all phases of the reconstruction until your property is restored to its prior condition. Our project managers and construction coordinators will communicate with you regularly, making sure you’re always kept in the loop.
Our Process
After your property is stabilized, SERVPRO will begin repair and restoration work on your home. We strive to provide prompt estimates for repair and restoration, and we will also work with insurance adjusters when necessary to streamline the claims process.
From inspecting your home and formulating a restoration plan to repairing and rebuilding affected areas, we always aim to exceed your expectations, and make your disaster "Like it never even happened."
After a disaster, SERVPRO will remove or “packout” your affected belongings. We utilize state-of-the-art technologies to expertly clean and deodorize your contents. Your belongings are then securely stored until you are ready for their return. You can rest assured that your things are safe with us, and we will always handle your possessions with care and respect.
Our Repair & Restoration Services Include:
- Board-up and tarping to protect and secure your home
- Detailed repair estimates
- Full-service general contractor capabilities
- Insurance claim assistance
- Specialized restoration tools and processes to save your belongings
No matter your need for repair and restoration services, trust SERVPRO of Cookeville/Carthage/Smithville/Woodbury to get the job done right. When working with us, you can rest assured that once the process is finished, your home will look just as it did before your loss happened.
Get in touch with us today for more information on our repair and restoration services.
Weather Damage Services
5/12/2021 (Permalink)
When bad weather strikes and causes damage to your home in the Upper Cumberland, count on SERVPRO of Cookeville/Carthage/Smithville/Woodbury to handle the restoration process from start to finish. Our employees understand the hardships that often accompany weather-related disasters and losses, which is why you can trust us to take care of your home and restore it to its preloss condition in the safest and most efficient way possible.
About Our Services
SERVPRO has a long history of consistently exceeding our customers’ expectations. Here are some of the things that are included in our weather damage services:
- Board-up and tarping to protect and secure the home
- Demolition for safety purposes
- Temporary power and lighting
- Large-scale drying equipment
- Mobile command center
When necessary, SERVPRO will also help you to navigate the insurance claim process and correspond with insurance agents to expedite the recovery process.
Emergency Response
In addition to handling non-emergency situations, SERVPRO is well-equipped to respond to emergencies as well. Our experienced, certified team is available 24/7/365 for on-site response within four hours of your call. We always have personnel and equipment standing by, ready to be dispatched and begin coordinating emergency services to restore your property.
No matter the size of your loss, we are committed to getting the job done right. Our experienced team utilizes state-of-the-art equipment to maintain a healthy working environment and ensure that your home is restored to its preloss condition.
Why Choose Us?
At SERVPRO, our company culture is strongly focused on integrity and compassion. This is why we are committed to understanding your concerns and being accessible to you during the entire restoration process.
To learn more about our weather damage services, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Customer Biohazard Feedback
5/19/2020 (Permalink)
"SERVPRO just finished a 12 week project on my brother's house in Cookeville. My brother died in the house, and it was a few weeks before his body was discovered. There was MAJOR cleanup and restoration work that had to be done. I live in Michigan, so it could have been a nightmare trying to coordinate and manage this effort from 550 miles away. However, Lee and his people made it very easy! They all were professional, dependable, hard working, and great to work with. I would give them 10 stars if I could!"
source: google review
The decontamination of a home or business due to biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience is key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances.
We are available 24 hours a day—our highly trained technicians are standing by. We have the qualified trained professionals who are ready to respond to these incidents. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.
Mold Remediation Customer Feedback
5/19/2020 (Permalink)
"Melissa and Josh were amazing! Very professional, friendly, and hard working! Excellent job guys!!! I would highly recommend SERVPRO of Cookeville! Quality work plus excellent service! They don’t make businesses like this much anymore! Thank you!"
The work we provided in this instance was mold testing and mold remediation. Mold can produce allergens and irritants that potentially could irritate you or your family. SERVPRO of Cookeville / Carthage / Smithville / Woodbury has trained technicians for your mold remediation in your home or business. Mold can spread quickly through your Cookeville home or business in as little as 48 hours. If you suspect that your home or business has a mold, we can inspect and assess your property quickly upon arrival. If mold is discovered we have expertise and knowledge to restore your home back to pre mold conditions.
Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by reviewing these mold damage tips.
If You See Signs of Mold,
Call Us Today – (931) 528-9292
Tips for Disinfecting Your Home or Business
4/1/2020 (Permalink)
In these times of uncertainty, preparation is the best defense against COVID-19. SERVPRO professionals are trained and certified in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. And we’re here to help – 24/7.
That being said, we can ALL do our part to combat the spread of this virus and develop some good hygiene habits along the way! Below is a checklist from the CDC of tips to keep your home and business clean.
Clean
- Clean surfaces using soap and water. Practice routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces. High touch surfaces include: Tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, etc.
- Clean the area or item with soap and water or another detergent if it is dirty. Then, use a household disinfectant.
- Recommend use of EPA-registered household disinfectant.
Follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product.
Many products recommend:- Keeping surface wet for a period of time (see product label)
- Precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product.
- Diluted household bleach solutions may also be used if appropriate for the surface. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.
Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser.
Leave solution on the surface for at least 1 minute
To make a bleach solution, mix:- 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water
OR - 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
- Alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol.
Soft surfaces
For soft surfaces such as carpeted floor, rugs, and drapes
Electronics
For electronics, such as tablets, touch screens, keyboards, and remote controls.
- Consider putting a wipeable cover on electronics
- Follow manufacturer’s instruction for cleaning and disinfecting
- If no guidance, use alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol. Dry surface thoroughly.
Laundry
For clothing, towels, linens and other items
- Wear disposable gloves.
- Wash hands with soap and water as soon as you remove the gloves.
- Do not shake dirty laundry.
- Launder items according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use the warmest appropriate water setting and dry items completely.
- Dirty laundry from a sick person can be washed with other people’s items.
- Clean and disinfect clothes hampers according to guidance above for surfaces.
Bedroom and Bathroom
Keep separate bedroom and bathroom for sick person (if possible)
- The sick person should stay separated from other people in the home (as much as possible).
- If you have a separate bedroom and bathroom: Reduce cleaning to as-needed (e.g. soiled items and surfaces) to minimize the amount of contact with the sick person.
- Caregivers can provide personal cleaning supplies to the sick person (if appropriate). Supplies include tissues, paper towels, cleaners, and EPA-registered disinfectants.
- If shared bathroom: Clean and disinfect after each use by the sick person. If this is not possible, the caregiver should wait as long as possible before cleaning and disinfecting.
- See precautions for household members and caregivers for more information.
Food
Trash
- Dedicated, lined trash can: If possible, dedicate a lined trash can for the sick person. Use gloves when removing garbage bags, and handling and disposing of trash. Wash hands afterwards.
Five Tips To Prevent Infection
3/31/2020 (Permalink)
In these times of uncertainty, preparation is the best defense against COVID-19. SERVPRO professionals are trained and certified in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. And we’re here to help – 24/7. We can all do our part to combat this crisis by following these 5 steps:
1. Clean Your Hands
- Use soap and warm water. Rub your hands really well for at least 15 seconds. Rub your palms, fingernail, in between your fingers, and the backs of your hands.
- Or, if your hands do not look dirty, clean them with alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Rub the sanitizer all over your hands, especially under your nails and between your fingers, until your hands are dry
- Clean your hands before touching or eating food. Clean them after you use the bathroom, take out the trash, change a diaper, visit someone who is ill, or play with a pet.
2. Make sure health care providers clean their hands or wear gloves.
- Doctors, nurses, dentist and other health care providers come into contact with lots of bacteria and viruses. So before they treat you, ask them if they've cleaned their hands.
- Healthcare providers should wear clean gloves when they perform tasks such as taking blood, touching wounds or body fluids and examining your mouth or private parts. Don't be afraid to ask them if they should wear gloves.
3. Cover your mouth and nose.
- Many diseases are spread through sneezes and coughs. When you sneeze or cough, the germs can travel 3 feet or more! Cover your mouth and nose to prevent the spread of infection to others.
- Use a tissue! Keep tissues handy at home, at work and in your pocket. Be sure to throw away used tissues and then clean your hands.
- If you don't have a tissue, cover your mouth and nose with the bend of your elbow or hands. If you use your hands, clean them right away.
4. If you are sick, avoid close contact with others.
- If you are sick, stay away from other people or stay home. Don't shake hands or touch others
- When you go for medical treatment, call ahead and ask if there's anything you can do to avoid infecting people in the waiting room
4. Avoid close contact
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
We are Cleaning Experts
3/24/2020 (Permalink)
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 Cookeville/Carthage/Smithville/Woodbury, 931-528-9292]
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
Flooding? SERVPRO tips to keep mold at bay!
3/2/2020 (Permalink)
Flooding can cause many issues in your home. It can damage the structure of your walls, ceilings and floors. It can ruin personal items and spoil any food or toiletries it touches. If left untreated, it can also lead to mold growth. There are several things you can do to ensure that your home in the Upper Cumberland doesn't develop a mold problem in addition to water damage after a flood.
Have the Experts on Speed Dial
Your first instinct may be to call your insurance agent, but your next call should be to water mitigation experts. These professionals offer several valuable services when your home has been flooded:
- Assess extent of damage
- Create a remediation plan and timeline
- Provide an estimate of the cost of repairs
- Confirm level of damage for insurance purposes
Mold growth can occur within 24 hours of the appearance of excess moisture, particularly if it is coupled with contamination, as flood water tends to be. Calling the experts the moment you know you need them is your strongest defense against a fungal invasion.
Get Rid of the Water
Floodwater creates a breeding ground for mold on any surface it touches. If you don't want to add mold removal to the list of expenses you incur from the flooding incident, you must remove its cause. A sump pump is useful for extracting excess water and letting the surfaces start to dry.
Control the Humidity
Humid air can be just as inviting to mold spores as standing water. If you can safely use a dehumidifier, it can help lower the moisture in the air to discourage fungus growth. If it is not safe to plug in a machine, however, you can still increase the air flow to help dry out your home with fans and, if the air outside is not humid, open windows.
Preventing mold growth can be a challenging task, but it is possible if you act quickly. By calling in experts and reducing the moisture in your home and in the air, you can decrease your chances of secondary damage.
3 Steps To Choosing a Storm Damage Service To Assist With Your Insured Commercial Clients
3/19/2019 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO of Cookeville/ Carthage/ Smithville/ Woodbury, we are ready for you.
As an insurance agent who works with business owners in Gordonsville, TN, the level of customer service you can provide is no doubt important to you. However, when natural disasters like violent storms hit the area, you may find yourself trying to serve multiple clients who all need help with their claims and storm restoration. Working with a storm damage response service can help streamline this process, and there are several strategies you can use for finding one that is compatible for how you assist your clients.
1. Review Your Client List
Before you choose a storm response team to help your customers make more efficient claims, it may be helpful to review your client list. Having a better understanding of how many businesses in the area would make claims through your agency may better allow you to choose a service based on size, location, and availability.
2. Consider Which Events Your Company Covers
Working with a disaster response team that can assist your clients with the events your insurance company covers can make for a better, more efficient pairing when business owners experience fire or flood damage. If your company offers limited coverage for certain types of floods, it is a good idea to discuss this with the storm restoration franchise manager before signing a contract.
3. Review the Benefits
Working with a storm damage and restoration service can be beneficial; however, before you make your final choice, consider the benefits to both yourself and your clients. Restoration and mitigation services may help your clients realize a path to recovery while having the support of the franchise and its corporate services can help you better serve your clients. This can help strengthen business connections and boost your local reputation as an insurance agent.
Working as an insurance agent in Gordonsville, TN, can be difficult to serve multiple commercial clients when disaster strikes the area. Choosing the right storm restoration service to work with during these times can have a positive effect on both your business and its clients.
FAQs About the Mold Containment Process
3/4/2019 (Permalink)
Stop mold spreading in your home.
Mold contamination can be a major issue for homeowners in Cookeville, TN, and the process of mold remediation can seem overwhelming. However, understanding the process of mold containment can be helpful to homeowners.
How Is Mold Contained?
After mold is discovered in a home, homeowners often find it helpful to seek out professionals in mold remediation. After assessing the home, the process of containment begins, which often includes:
- Decreasing the air flow in the area(s) affected by mold by turning off air conditioning or heat and closing windows in the home
- Keeping all areas within the home dry as possible
- Using equipment such as negative air chambers in order to keep the spores in one place
Why Is Containment Important?
Containing mold often requires the use of various strategies and pieces of equipment. Mold containment is generally beneficial after mold contamination is found in a home for the following reasons:
- Reduces the likelihood of mold spreading to areas of the home that haven’t yet been impacted by mold growth, therefore preventing structural damage and damage to items within the home
- Stops mold from further damaging affected areas
- Lowers the overall costs of the restoration process by preventing new damage
What Happens After Containment?
The mold remediation process doesn’t stop after the mold is contained. Once professionals are certain that the mold is contained, the process of restoring the home and items damaged by mold really begins. Since mold spores exist everywhere, air filtration devices are used to bring the mold spores down to a safe level. Then, items that have been damaged by mold are removed from the home and are cleaned, and either restored or replaced. Finally, restoration of the home begins.
Containment is one of the most important steps in restoring a home affected by mold contamination. Understanding what the mold containment process entails, why it’s important and the steps that follow can help homeowners prepare for mold remediation.
Why SERVPRO’s Claims Inventory System Might Be an Insurance Agent’s Best Friend
2/19/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO can provide you with the tools you need to do the best for both your client and the agency.
Why SERVPRO’s Claims Inventory System Might Be An Insurance Agent’s Best Friend
When a client suffers damage to their Carthage, TN home, they will undoubtedly file an insurance claim. While working through the claim, you may end up accumulating quite a bit of related materials. In order to make the process easier for you, SERVPRO has a claims inventory system to help you keep track of any necessary information. These are a few things that they can provide for you.
1. Pictures of Damaged Items
During the restoration process, SERVPRO will take pictures of any damaged items which will make it easier for you when determining what the client has lost. They will provide you with an itemized loss inventory that includes photos of items and an Excel formatted report.
2. A Complete Job File
Along with the loss inventory, the Claims Information Center can give you an electronic job file with information you might need to complete the insurance claim. This will include loss photos, the first notice of loss as well as a detailed estimate of repair costs. They will also provide scanned copies of important paperwork and forms. It can be emailed to you or, if you prefer, you can receive a hard copy.
3. Online Access to Files
In order to make your work easier, as the insurance agent, you will have online access to all files related to the job. Having this information when you need it can help you complete the process more quickly. It can also help you to be sure you are making the best, most informed decision when it comes to your client’s claim.
When you are working on an insurance claim with your client, you want to have the most accurate data so you can make the right call for him or her. Using a damage restoration service that helps in this area can make it easier. SERVPRO can provide you with the tools you need to do the best for both your client and the agency.
How Do I Know If I Have Mold?
11/30/2018 (Permalink)
Musty mold odor call a mold restoration company in Gordonsville,TN
Finding out if you have mold is easy if it’s where you can see it. But mold is tricky and likes to hang out in the dark, damp spaces many business owners never think to check. You can’t check everywhere, so how can you figure out if you have mold? The best way is to hire a Gordonsville,TN, indoor environmental specialist. If that’s not an option, here are some tips to figuring out if you have mold.
You Have Allergic Symptoms
The full health threat of mold is unclear, but it’s pretty well accepted that mold can trigger allergic reactions. Those include:
- Sneezing
- Sore Eyes
- Nasal Congestion
and more. If you or your employees have allergies that only seem to crop up when you’re inside, there’s a good chance there could be mold growing somewhere in your building. An indoor environmental specialist can help you make a clear determination.
Musty, Mold Odor
Believe it or not, a moldy smell is often the only hint that these pesky spores are growing in your building. A mold smell is best described as musky, damp and mildew-like. It may tickle your nose, or simply be unpleasant. Either way, don't ignore mold odors even if you can’t see mold. Have an expert do a basic examination and a mold test sooner rather than later.
Signs of Water Problems
A lingering drip, condensation on pipes – there are lots of little things businesses learn to ignore because they aren’t causing trouble. But long-term moisture problems will almost always lead to mold growth over time. If you have known water problems, however minor, you might want to have an indoor environmental specialist take a look.
Detecting mold requires vigilance. Talk to your local mold specialist and keep your eyes open for the subtle signs to learn how to spot and shut down mold before it really gets started.
4 Things Property Owners Should Do After a Fire
11/21/2018 (Permalink)
Board up in Carthage,TN
Cleanup and Recovery Process After a Fire
A fire at a commercial building may result in the partial or total loss of property. Owners or tenants may also be confronted with the loss of revenue during the fire restoration process. Property owners should follow these four steps to facilitate the cleanup and recovery process.
1. Contact the Insurer
Building owners should immediately contact commercial property insurance providers. Fire damage is usually covered by these standard policies. Depending on the condition of the property, owners or tenants may also want to file a business interruption claim if they have this rider on their commercial insurance or separate interruption insurance coverage.
2. Document the Damage
Owners should try to obtain photographic or video footage of the property to support a fire insurance claim. Wear personal protective equipment such as a mask and try not to touch any contents while obtaining documentation. Spread out towels or other coverings to avoid grinding soot and ash into flooring.
3. Board Up and Secure the Premises
Insurers require that property owners take measures to mitigate fire damage. An owner can do boarding up or tarping with at least one other person, or rely on the expertise of mitigation or fire restoration professionals. Mitigation may involve boarding up missing windows with plywood, covering damaged portions of the roof with tarp, and putting up security fencing.
4. Set Aside Damaged Contents
Property owners may also want to begin sorting through contents to determine whether items are candidates for smoke cleaning or must be disposed of and replaced. This process can help owners file an accurate claim, obtain sufficient compensation for losses, and restore properties to pre-fire condition.
All of these measures can lay the groundwork for the cleanup process following a fire at a commercial building in Carthage, TN. A fire restoration company can repair damage and help owners or tenants get back to business.
3 Safety Tips for Driving on Flooded Roads
11/17/2018 (Permalink)
Driving in Algood,TN can be a challenge, especially when you encounter a flooded street
Safety Tips To Keep In Mind To Ensure You Get Home Safely
Flooding in Algood, TN, can cause widespread damage to homes and other properties. However, few things are as fraught with danger than a flooded street. Water depth and swiftness can be difficult to gauge when driving and both can cause your vehicle to become trapped or swept away. If you encounter a flooded road while driving, there are a few safety tips you can keep in mind to ensure you get home safely.
1. Watch for Signs and Barriers
If strong thunderstorms have caused localized flooding, be aware of caution signs that alert drivers of dangerous areas. If you encounter a barrier across a flooded street, obey the posted signs that accompany it and turn around or follow any detour signs to avoid driving through the flooded area. Follow any directions flood damage and remediation service technicians give you if they happen to be working in the area.
2. Avoid Driving Through Standing Water
One of the most important travel tips to keep in mind while driving during a flash flood is to steer clear of standing water. This includes large puddles you might encounter in parking lots and highways. The depth of the water can be difficult to judge and could disable and damage your car if you try to drive through it. Flooded roads can also develop deep potholes and structural weaknesses that might cause you and your vehicle to become stranded.
3. Try to Reach Higher Ground
If you are driving on a road that starts to flood, try to drive in a direction that will take you to higher ground. If water levels start to rise, it is a good idea to pull over and move uphill on foot, away from flash flood waters, as your car’s tires may lose contact with the road if the water gets too deep.
Driving in Algood, TN, can be a challenge during heavy rain, especially when you encounter a flooded street. Knowing how to stay safe can help you reach your destination without injury or damage to your car.
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