Recent Why SERVPRO Posts

SERVPRO is Available Around the Clock to Help you Restore Your Home After a Fire.

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

Most homeowners in Rock Hill & York County know that restoring their home after a fire takes time. The flames, smoke, and extinguishing agents left behind by the fire and first responders can leave your home in disarray. Do not let the mess intimidate you; instead, call a company certified to handle these situations.

Only a professional group can help mitigate your loss as it helps you salvage, remove, and restore your home and your personal belongings.

For our Rock Hill & York County neighbors, fire damage restoration is a phone call away. Our SERVPRO team is available around the clock because we recognize that emergencies happen day and night. Our Green Fleet is ready to spring into action, assess the incident's impact, and create an action plan for your home. Our goal is to erase this disruption from your life by doing a conscientious and thorough job of restoring your home.

How do I decide what to keep and what to toss after a fire?

Looking at the soot sitting on your furniture, books, and decor may leave a hopeless feeling in your heart, but don't jump to conclusions until you consult our SERVPRO experts. At its fingertips, our team has different options to restore documents, electronics, and flooring, among others. Fires also leave behind an acrid smell, which our team can address as well. At the core of our restoration process, we focus on the following-

Use of chemical agents to loosen soot and dirt while protecting the surface itself. Once the process of emulsion occurs, removing debris becomes easier.

Use deodorizing agents to neutralize and kill any smell molecules lingering in your home, including those that traveled through your ventilation system.

Use of extraction equipment to remove any remaining water used to extinguish the fire.

Our team at SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County is looking out for you when you need it the most. Call us at (803) 324-5780 when disaster strikes and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened." 

Training of our SERVPRO Technicians

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we take pride in sending highly trained technicians to service our York County locations. Each of our technicians is IICRC Certified and is required to maintain that certification. Our technicians are trained to look for damages that may not be visible to the naked eye and utilize state-of-the-art equipment to locate damages.

SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County requires our employees to undergo initial and ongoing continuing education. Our training program includes the following:

  • IICRC Training
  • Employee Certification Training
  • Initial Franchise Training
  • e-Learnings
  • Continuing Education Classes

IICRC Training and Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after the successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

  • Crew Training
  • Fire Restoration
  • Water Restoration
  • Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Initial Franchise Training

A 15-day hands-on course at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. This course is primarily for new Franchise owners and covers many restoration topics:

  • Fire Restoration
  • Water Restoration
  • Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
  • Mold Mitigation

e-Learnings

Ongoing education and e-learnings are provided through web-based training. This voluntary program is designed to keep our office staff and technicians up-to-speed on industry standards. It allows us to provide high-quality service and support that our residential and commercial business customers expect.

6 Signs Your Commercial Building May Have Mold

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

6 Signs Your Commercial Building May Have Mold

Signs Of Potential Mold Growth

If you suspect a mold problem in your facility, then you may want to call an indoor environmental specialist in Rock Hill & York County, to perform a mold test of the building. However, if you are not sure of a problem, then consider the following six signs of potential mold growth.

1. Peeling or Bubbling Paint
Walk through your building, inspecting the walls and ceilings. You are looking for signs of peeling or bubbling paint. You may also want to examine the space for signs of sponginess in the drywall. These potential clues point to water damage and possible mold.

2. Plumbing Problems
Do you know of any existing plumbing issues in the facility? How long have these issues been going on? Mold needs water to thrive, which means plumbing leaks often lead to fungal problems.

3. Recent Flood
Any indoor environmental specialist will explain that mold can develop within the first 24 to 48 hours of water damage. Therefore, if you have experienced a recent flood in your facility, and the water either wasn’t removed quickly or the area was not dried thoroughly, then mold is a possibility.

4. Staining and Discoloration
Staining and discoloration of ceiling tiles, drywall, carpeting or grout can all mean water damage or mold growth. If you notice new or rapid discoloration of building materials, then have them tested for possible mold exposure.

5. Humidity
Is your facility temperature controlled? If not, do you have proper ventilation installed to avoid excessive humidity? The building should remain at or below 50% humidity levels to reduce the risk of mold development. If you have no measures protecting against excessive moisture levels, consider installing vents, fans and dehumidifiers.

6. Odor
When mold is not visible, you can often smell it, especially when it reaches the HVAC system. It is a musty and unpleasant smell.
If you have experienced any of the above issues, consider contacting an indoor environmental specialist. These professionals will test your facility for mold and assess the best way to remove the problem.

Our Proven 6-Step Water Damage Restoration Method | SERVPRO® of Rock Hill & County

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Our Proven 6-Step Water Damage Restoration Method

Discovering water damage has invaded your home is disappointing, but taking action right away is the most effective response.

That is why we are here 24 hours a day, so you can call us whenever you need to in order to report the damage and begin restoration. This is how our method works:

6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration

1. Initial Emergency Contact
We are here 24 hours a day, so you can call us at any time to talk with one of our highly trained phone operators and fill us in on the details of the damage. With this information, we will assemble a response squad and get to you as soon as we can.

2. Inspection and Damage Assessment
Upon arriving at your home, we will immediately assess the area for any present safety hazards and address them to create a hazard-free environment. After that, we will do a full inspection of the damaged area to create a restoration plan for your situation.

3. Moisture Extraction
Allowing standing water to sit unattended is one of the biggest culprits of auxiliary damage after water moves in, so we get excess moisture out fast. We have a fleet of equipment to move hundreds of gallons of water at a time out of your home.

4. Dehumidifying and Drying
Once the excess moisture is removed, we will begin to pull moisture out of the air and surfaces with our dehumidifiers and drying tools. We want to do this quickly as mold can rapidly begin to grow if this moisture is not addressed.

5. Cleaning Belongings
After we have dried and dehumidified your air and belongings, we will clean and sanitize everything that has been impacted. Water damage can contaminate objects and lead to foul odors, so we take this precaution to make sure your home is safe.

6. Restoration and Repair
When you call us for restoration, you can be confident that we are with you every step of the way—including for cosmetic repairs that need to be done to restore your home. We can add new drywall, do paint work and any other finishing touches to truly restore your impacted areas.

If your home has been water-damaged, you can count on us to help. Call us 247 to get the process started.

Vacation Time Precautions at Home | SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

Vacation Time Precautions at Home

Getting ready for a vacation is exciting but can be very stressful at times. Being focused on packing and trying to be on time to the airport can cause you to forget your toothbrush, your phone or more importantly, turning off the sink or unplugging the hot iron. SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County has encountered damage within the last few months that occurred while the tenant or homeowner was out of town on vacation.  

To enjoy a stress-free, fun vacation we advise that you take a few precautions before leaving your home.

  • Check pipes, hoses, faucets, water heaters and bathrooms for any type of leak.
  • Clear excess debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent water build up.
  • To avoid electrical fires or power surges, unplug all unnecessary appliances.
  • Check all the smoke detectors in your home to ensure that they are properly working.

Asking a friend or a family member to house sit while on vacation, is always a great option. You would have a faster response to an unfortunate event that could have possibly happened. Here at SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County, we want you to be able to enjoy your vacation and be able to come back to your home as you left it. Remember, with any emergency situation, we will be ready 24/7, 365. Our friendly team will be here, ready to assist you when needed. Give us a call at (803) 324-5780.

SERVPRO Mold Remediation

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Mold Remediation

Dealing with mold is not an easy task. Especially for a homeowner that has never dealt with mold before. If you have noticed water damage do not wait until it is too late. Water damage can lead to mold growth, and if you leave your home untreated your insurance can decline your claim due to long term mold.  

Follow these steps for Mold Remediation:

Step 1: It is important to first find the cause of the mold and fix any leaks that could have caused fungus to grow. 

Step 2: Set up containment in order to close the area that will be worked on from the rest of the space. 

Step 3: Demo out any drywall that has mold on it or is directly in front of the framing that has mold. 

Step 4: Wipe down the affected area with anti-microbial wipes. Wiping the area down can collect a lot of the mold spores and get it prepared for the grinding. Wiping down also reduces the number of mold spores that become airborne during the grinding step. 

Step 5: Dry out the affected area. This is the most important step by far! If the affected area still contains moisture, mold can grow back. 

Step 6: Grind down the affected materials in order to best reduce the number of mold spores on the material. 

Step 7: HEPA vacuum any debris that had been caused during the mold remediation. Final wipe down of the affected materials and containment to ensure that the chamber is ready for a post mold clearance test if requested by the homeowner.  

If you discover mold in your home or business, contact our professionals to correctly remediate and remove mold from your environment. Contact us at (803) 324-5780.

Why You Can Always Count on SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPROs across the nation are doing our part to help flatten the curve. We are still working but we are cleaning our offices and vehicles even more often than usual to help make sure that we aren’t spreading germs to each other and to our customers. We are wearing masks and gloves on all job sites, we are doing our best to minimize face to face contact with our customers, we are also locking down our buildings to prevent our customers coming in to the offices. We want to not only protect our workers and their families but also our customers and their families as well. We understand this is a scary time but this is what SERVPRO is trained for. Our products and techniques are in accordance to the CDC and local authorities guidelines.

We are able to do preventative cleanings and have done several to homes and businesses. SERVPRO is here to put your mind at ease so that you don’t have the extra stress during this stressful time. We treat you like family because that’s what matters most to us is our customers and their families. 

Aside from us cleaning your home or business remember to do your part to flatten the curve. 

  • Wash your hands often
  • Cover your cough or sneeze
  • Wipe down high touch areas everyday with EPA-certified, hospital strength cleaner
  • If you have fever or cough please stay away from others and seek medical attention
  • Social Distance

Listen to the CDC and local authorities, they are doing their best to keep us safe.  

If you have questions or need COVID-19 Cleaning call SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County at (803) 324-5780.

Why It's Important To Test Your Smoke Detector

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County 24/7 If You Need Us.

Smoke detectors save lives when property installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of first where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA).

In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. For more information on Emergency Preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County at (803) 324-5780.

NEVER Pour Grease Down Your Sink Drain!!!!

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Never Pour Grease Down Your Sink Drain!!

Never pour grease down your sink!

You’ve probably heard this before, but you should definitely avoid pouring grease down your kitchen sink. It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. It can still congeal and cling to your pipes, and could still cause some serious blockage and water damage.

Some people use detergent to break up grease before pouring it down the drain…and that may help sometimes. But there’s no guarantee that it’ll keep the grease from sticking to your pipes, so why take the risk?

The safest thing to do is just to pour your grease in an empty can, and either let it sit or put it in the refrigerator. Once it hardens you can toss it in the trash and get rid of it. 

Pipe leaks from clogged pipes can cause water damage to your home as well as mold damage if the water damage is not soon addressed.

If you have a leaky pipe under your kitchen sink that has caused water damage to your home, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County today!

We are here for you 24/7 at (803) 324-5780

A Leaky Fridge can Create a Huge Headache for Homeowners

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Check your refrigerator at least once a month to make sure you don't have leaks.

You should check to see if there are any sings of water damage around your appliances every couple of months.  A leaky fridge can create a lot of problems for the homeowner if it goes unnoticed for an extended period of time. If you see excessive moisture around the appliance, call an expert to determine the source and how extensive the damage is. Get it fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

A small drip can damage the wall making the paint peel or bubble. Sheetrock becomes bloated and warps over time.

A slow drip can create major problems under laminate and tile floors and could affect the sub-flooring. This can also affect the cabinets around the appliance. Particle board cabinets are extremely prone to water damage. In some cases, it may be necessary to refinish or replace some cabinets.

If you see dark stains or mold on the walls or floors, call a professional that specializes in mold remediation. You can purchase a water leak detection alarm and place it behind the appliance. Depending on the brand, you can get a notification on your mobile device alerting you if a leak is detected.

The team at SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County is here to help with any type of water damage restoration. Call us today at 803-324-5780 (Call 24/7).

Why is Your Water Bill So High!!

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

There are many things to check for if you water bill is high and getting higher!!

How much water does your home use? Every month you might look at your water bill and think, “We went through THAT much water?” From your sink, to the dishwasher, toilet, washing machine, drinking water, and garden hose, you might be shocked about how much water you go through. After a while, your water bill will begin to set into a pattern, and you will know your usual consumption. However, if one month it is an oddly high bill however, these could be the causes.

The biggest concern with a high-water bill is that there is an unknown leak in your house. Check the suspect areas first. Toilets are the first place you should check. A toilet that is in a continuous state of flushing can go through almost 200 gallons of water a day. If you hear a toilet running, that is an obvious sign, but by looking into the tank, you can often find the source of your problem.  Once you have inspected all of the toilets, look at sinks and faucets for leaks to see if they have loose handles, pipes, or cracks that could be dripping water out. Next, check appliances that use water such as refrigerators, freezers, and hot water heaters. The connections may be loose or have worn down over time and this may be the source the leak. If you do not find a leak at any of these spots, then maybe there is no leak and it could be one of these other causes for your high-water bill.

You may have forgotten about large sources of water use. Water usage is not fixed and fluctuates throughout the year. During the summer, you could be using a garden sprinkler or filling up a pool or you have more people staying with you, such as kids home for summer break. During the winter, you may have family staying for the holidays or if your heating system is powered through the use of hot water, this could lead to an increase in use. As the season changes, so does our use of water, make sure to account for this when you look at your bill.

If neither of these seem to be the cause of your high-water bill, then it might be time to look at the way you are measuring your consumption. Water meters are used to measure the amount of water you use each year, while there are ways to read this on your property, today, it is done remotely by the water authority. You can request to have your meter checked for accuracy to confirm your previous bill. While uncommon, it is always smart to confirm your bill is accurate.

If you still are not sure of the cause for your high-water bill, you may have an underground leak. This can be a costly problem to solve and will likely require either bringing in an expert or purchasing detection equipment. There will often be an underground hissing sound that will give away the leak. If you have checked all of the above possibilities for finding the cause of your high-water bill, it may be worth considering an underground leak. If you believe this is the case, you should contact a professional inspector to look for the cause and confirm if this is true.

Monitoring your monthly water bill is the best way to make sure you don’t have further problems in the future due to water damage. A tiny leak, if left unchecked, can cause thousands of dollars in water, mold, and sewer damage, and you will be left on the hook for the water bill as well. Make sure to monitor your monthly water bill closely and look for any unknown peaks.  Call SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County 24/7 at (803) 324-5780.

Disaster Remediation To Rebuild Experts

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

This was from a fire mitigation claim. Before and After Repairs.

When damage strikes your York County place of business or home you need trusted remediation-to-rebuild experts. Witnessing your home and precious belongings being consumed by water or fire can be traumatizing. The only reassurance you can have after such a disastrous loss is obtained from having clear support and guidance in rescuing as much property as possible and rebuilding the rest. 

When left untreated, water inside a building can be a long-term most catastrophic material. Structures and other personal properties can deteriorate rapidly as a result of too much standing water or moisture.

We offer a wide variety of commercial and residential and services to our clients. Over the years, our family of franchises has grown to become FOUR franchises strong! This is the result of the exemplary services that we provide. We have a team of certified and fully trained professionals who are ready to respond 24 hours a day, every day of the year, even holidays to all emergencies.

Some of the services that we provide are as follows:

• Fire damage restoration

• Restoration of water damage

• Restoration of storm destruction

• Mold damage restoration and others.

As a leading restoration and rebuild firm, we are capable of handling it all; from the onset of disaster to applying the last coat of paint.

Call SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County today at (803) 324-5780 for an immediate response.

We Are Here To Help!!

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

If you need help with any mitigation service, call SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County 24/7 at 803-324-5780.

The last few weeks have been unprecedented and stressful with families doing their best to navigate the COVID-19 public health crisis. In times such as these, it is more important than ever that we come together as a community to support one another during this time of need. Students are now online learning and adults are working remotely if they have the ability to. Know that the SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County team is still operational and actively serving the residents of York County.

We’re continuing to offer our services in fire, water, and mold damage remediation and mitigation. Whether it’s a fire that causes smoke damage in your kitchen. An overflowing tub or sink that causes standing water in your bathroom, or mold damage that you’ve never noticed until now. With more people at home now the likelihood of unfortunate incidents may increase and we want to ensure you that we’ll be here once you need us.

Our production technicians are also taking extra precautions during these precarious times. They are now wearing masks and disposable gloves when entering people’s homes or places of business. They’re also regularly disinfecting their company vehicles.

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Rock hill & York County at (803) 324-5780.

Why Call SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County 24/7 at 803-324-5780.

SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small, residential or commercial. 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.


Call SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County Immediately:

(803)324-5780

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 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:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Rock Hill and York County

SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event, and we also perform mold remediation. 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.

Our Team Can Help You!!!

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a pipe break and water all over your carpet. SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County will come and clean it up for you.

The water loss remediation industry continuously devises new equipment that takes a property from soaked and deteriorating to dry and clean faster and more efficiently. As amazing as innovative tools are, it takes a crew of seasoned and highly-qualified technicians to use them to the best effect. Professional water remediation companies deliver their best outcomes when the workers pledge to train and re-certify on a regular basis.

When you face water damage in your home, you benefit from cutting-edge equipment and crews who know how to operate them according to industry standards. Water intrusion are a tricky business, requiring not only hard work but also a solid understanding of the science behind water removal and structural drying.

Developing professional expertise to mitigate water damage is why SERVPRO sends our crew members to the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) classes. The IICRC is a standard developing and establishing organization worldwide. Skills taught to the employees we sent to remediate and restore your home base their effectiveness on research.

An example of a task that might seem straightforward enough to be within the grasp of every homeowner is carpet water extraction. The equipment resembles a shop vac, and a homeowner typically feels comfortable operating a vacuum. This is why SERVPRO requires crew members to complete a comprehensive IICRC course in carpet cleaning relates to the problems that can occur if standards are unknown or ignored.

The art and science of extracting water from carpeting or other floor coverings are not intuitive. An effective way to pull moisture out of a carpet is with a weighted wand extractor. SERVPRO IICRC-trained technicians learned and practiced the techniques that extract moisture without putting stress on the textile floor covering. Inexperienced individuals can stretch the carpet fabric by exerting too much pressure or moving too quickly across a surface. Inappropriate force might cause delamination of the carpet backing from the carpet face. 

SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County delivers high-quality water mitigation results by arranging for professional training of all our technicians. Schedule an appointment with our top-notch workforce by calling (803) 324-5780.

Why Time is Of The Essence In Water Damage!!

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

According to the EPA, the first 24-48 hours are the most crucial when dealing with water damage.

Water Damage Time Crunch

Water Damage: A Brief Overview

Once your home or office is affected by water damage, there are numerous things you will need to do to restore order and safety to your property. In many cases, residential and commercial property owners feel overwhelmed upon considering all of the steps they will have to take to accomplish this objective. However, learning more about water damage and SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County, can empower you to optimize and expedite the remediation process.

 Water Damage: The Basics

Water damage can result from numerous factors, including a natural disaster. In addition to surfacing as a result of a flood or fire, water damage can be caused by household issues such as a burst pipe or malfunctioning washing machine. Irrespective of the cause, excess water in your home or office is a serious issue that must be addressed immediately and effectively. This is the case for several reasons, including the fact that water can begin seeping into your walls, carpet, padding, hardwood flooring, and other property structures. If left unattended, water damage can cause serious issues such as the collapse of your ceiling, and ruining your carpet and/or hardwood flooring. 

 More Consequences Of Water Damage

In addition to compromising the structural integrity of your residential or commercial property, water damage can lead to a plethora of health problems. This is the case, because water damage creates the ideal conditions for mold to thrive in. Once property residents haven been exposed to mold, they become increasingly susceptible to health complications like skin infections, respiratory problems, lung complications, sinus infections, and other various illnesses. Additionally, mold growth and proliferation can give rise to unwanted smells that begin to permeate ceilings, floors, and walls.

 Getting Professional Assistance

After you realize that your home has been impacted by water damage, you should immediately call for professional assistance. Trained remediation specialists will be able to offer you comprehensive services that restore your property. The first step in the restoration process is the property inspection and assessment. This process will enable the remediation specialists to determine the extent of damages done to the property. Once these determinations have been made, the restoration experts will know which equipment and techniques to deploy to restore your property to its original condition.

 The Importance Of The Drying Process

One of the best ways to prevent water damage from creating a high moisture environment that gives rise to mold is to thoroughly dry the property. Water remediation specialists understand this principle, and they use specialized equipment such as dehumidifiers and air movers to accomplish the objective. In many cases, a thorough drying of the property can eliminate the need to replace hardwood floor, carpet, and walls.

The professionals of SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County possess advanced water damage restoration skills, and we also offer the type of exceptional customer service that will set you at ease throughout the process. Our IICRC-certified technicians utilize a proven six-step restoration process to ensure that your residential or commercial property is made new with lightning speed.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

 As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County is strategically located to respond quickly to your flood and water emergency event. When water damage occurs, we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (803) 324-5780.

Classifications of Water Damage That Can Happen In Your Home

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

We will be explaining some of the basics of water damage and how it can affect your home and health. Water damage is the leading culprit when it comes to property damage and restoration service needs.

Now, this actually surprises a lot of folks, when they hear water damage they usually imagine a flood from a nearby river, a natural disaster etc. While events as such do occur, there are more common ways for water damage to affect your home, including:

  • appliance leaks from your fridge, ice machine, washing machines, etc.
  • toilet overflows
  • sinks and bath/shower overflows or left running without attendance
  • broken/leaky water pipes within walls and ceilings
  • drainage issues around the property
  • roof leaks and compromised exterior
  • rain/wind storms

As you can see, water damage can originate from either internal or external sources and once it gets into your home it is important to know what kind of water you are dealing with.

What do we mean by, what kid of water? Well in the restoration industry we recognize water in THREE different categories:

  • CATEGORY 1 – Also referred to as “Clean Water”, this means that the water originated from a sanitary source and does not generally pose a risk to our health.
  • CATEGORY 2 – This could also be referred to as “Grey Water”, meaning it contains some contamination and would not be sanitary enough for human consumption, posing a health risk if ingested.
  • CATEGORY 3 – Commonly known as “Black Water”, this is water that is grossly contaminated and could contain disease-causing organisms, pathogens, and other harmful materials.

Now you know the 3 different categories of water and how it can enter into your home. Each of these different categories of water damage comes with their own do's and don'ts on how to deal with them. Restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience to handle any water damage emergency. 

SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County is here 24/7 @ 803-324-5780.

The Summer Heat May Be Affecting Your Home’s Appliances

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

You know those hot summer days when you can feel the sun sucking away your energy? Well, the same thing can happen to your household appliances during the summer too. When the weather gets hot, there are some preventative measures you can take to protect the systems and appliances in your home. 

The higher temperatures outside can create a buildup of moisture on your appliances inside. This extra moisture can cause appliances to degrade faster, and can potentially cause electrical shocks. Appliances can also sweat, causing water to settle around cords and wires. It can also flood the interior of the system, which can potentially lead to mold.

You also must be wary of your appliances overheating. Appliances may have higher surface temperatures, and can lose function when overheated, or require more electricity to work properly. Most appliances use more energy during summer months because they have to work even harder to maintain a cool temperature themselves.

AC Units often have to work harder in the summer because in addition to cooling your home, they also work to remove moisture from the air. Consider installing a dehumidifier with your HVAC system, or using one in rooms where it gets hottest. The dehumidifier can remove moisture from the air and allow the Air Conditioner to work solely on cooling your home.

You should also maintain regular cleaning/maintenance of your unit’s filters and coils in order to ensure that it is working properly. The same should go for your fridge/freezer. Dirty coils can lead to overheating, which could leave you without an AC unit or a fridge.

Your fridge should also be kept somewhere cool (avoid hot garages). Once you find the right place for your fridge, be sure to give it ample breathing room. The fridge needs enough room to release heat, but you don’t want that heat to become trapped and cause the unit to overheat and stop working.

You should maintain regular upkeep and maintenance of all of your household appliances all year long, but it’s especially important to be mindful of how they can be affected in this summer heat. Should you require emergency services, call SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County 24/7 at 803-324-5780.

Understanding the Three Categories of Water

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

When dealing with water damage in your home or business, there are three different types or classifications of water that we use: Clean, Gray, and Black water.

Clean Water: This is water that does not contain contaminants. It includes broken water lines, malfunctioning appliances, toilets holding tanks, snow melt and rainwater. Overtime however, clean water can progress and become gray water within 48 hours, if left untreated.

Gray Water: Gray water does contain slight chemical or biological contaminants, and may pose a health risk. Gray water can discharge from dishwashers, washing machines, sinks, showers, aquariums and waterbeds, or come from a clean water source that leaked through a ceiling. It can also be clean water that was left untreated (and became gray water). Gray water can also progress to the next stage (Black Water) if left untreated within 48 hours.

Black Water: This water is a positive health risk as it is highly contaminated. Black water is presumed to contain multiple potentially harmful contaminants including fungi, bacteria, chemicals, viruses, and more. Black Water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding, or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be treated by a trained and certified professional.

For any type of water damage, it is always best to treat it quickly so as to avoid further contamination and risk mold growth. Call SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County,  if you need services in your home! Available 24/7 (803)324-5780.

Suicide Cleanup And Insurance Coverage

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

We are ready to help.

The weather is starting to warm up in the Fort Mill and Rock Hill area and springtime is around the corner. Spring may be known mainly as a joyful season, but it's not all sunshine and flowers. Unfortunately there is a correlation between spring and an increase in suicide rates. It is a depressing matter to discuss but it is one that must be addressed. SERVPRO Restoration is available to help, and many homeowners' policies are aiding as well.

Although the exact reason for suicide rates peaking during the spring season is unknown, there are various speculations, from an increase in energy and motivation to inflammation aggravating depression. Whatever the case may be, people are choosing to go through with tragic ends. If a family loses a member due to suicide, there are many difficulties that accompany this appalling situation. One concern that piles on top of the emotions is that of financial matters. Dealing with a death of a loved one is difficult enough without considering the financial aspects. The costs can vary for biohazard cleanup, depending on the situation, but in some cases, insurance is helping to alleviate the financial stresses. Many homeowners' insurance policies offer coverage for crime scene and trauma cleaning, so it is crucial to check with the insurance policy adjuster to determine if coverage is offered.

SERVPRO is seeking to alleviate the difficulties that accompany a suicide. The situation is troubling as is and finding a qualified, compassionate company to handle the aftermath should not be a distressing task. SERVPRO crews are able to attend the scene and handle the cleanup of any present biohazard. If blood stains or bodily fluids are present, SERVPRO will safely and effectively remove the dangers to ensure no one is exposed to hazardous bloodborne pathogens and other potential dangers. SERVPRO is working with cooperative homeowners' insurance policies to handle the cleanup, eliminating the emotional burden of having to clean up the traumatic scene without assistance while simultaneously coping with grief.

SERVPRO's main concern is the well-being of the family. The compassionate crews care about the customers they serve and want to complete the cleanup to ensure the physical and emotional safety of the family members. It is important to consult the insurance adjuster to determine whether or not a suicide cleanup will be covered. If an insurance company is paying for cleanup services, SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County will work side-by-side with the insurance company and the loved ones involved in order to provide considerate, proficient services.

Need Biohazard Cleanup Services?
Call Us Today – (803) 324-5780

Why Does My Carpet Smell?

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Does your home have a mysterious bad smell? If you've already checked the fridge and your trash bins and can't find the source, it could be that you're in need of a carpet cleaning or carpet deodorizer.

Just like stains, carpet fibers can trap odors, making them linger in your home indefinitely. If you think your carpet could be the problem, consider the possible sources of the odor.

Moisture or dampness

Sometimes, moisture can get underneath the carpet and carpet pad, leading to musty odors.

This moisture can come from humidity, spills or potted plants that drip onto the carpeting.

A flood can also cause carpet odor, such as when a finished basement floods during a rainstorm.

If not addressed properly, continued moisture exposure can cause mold and mildew to grow under the carpet padding. Not only will it increase the smell, it also creates a health risk.

Pet odor

When pets use the carpet as a bathroom, the smell can really linger.

Even after a carpet cleaning, the smell of pet urine may return. This is due to the gases released by the bacteria that are digesting the urine. If any of the urine remains in the rug fibers, it will continue to smell.

The same is true for vomit, another common problem associated with pets and carpeting.

These bacteria are activated by water, which is why the smell may intensify after a thorough cleaning.

Dry carpet cleaning treatments or treatments that use enzymatic odor removal products are the best solution for eliminating pet smells. Enzymes are particularly effective because they attack the bacteria, thus eliminating the source of the smell.

Cigarette smoke

If a smoker lives in the home, the carpet can collect the cigarette smoke odor.

While the homeowners may not notice the stench because they live with it, visitors or someone who purchases the home will definitely notice the smoke smell.

A professional carpet cleaner may be able to remove the smell, but if the smoking was excessive, a carpet deodorizer may not be enough, and the carpeting may need to be replaced.

Old age

Carpeting is made from fibers. Over time, those fibers break down. When the carpet begins to smell old, there is little that can be done.

Carpet cleaning cannot take the old, musty smell from carpet. This is when it simply needs to be replaced.

In addition to the smell, old carpet starts to release dust, which can contribute to indoor allergies.

Food and drink spills

Food and drinks that spill onto carpet can lead to odors.

Like pet smells, these organic products attract bacteria. As the bacteria break down, they release smelly gasses. Again, professional carpet cleaning is the best solution to remove the smell.

Once you find the source of your carpet odor, you can decide on the best treatment. For organic smells like pet odors or food spills, consider two professional cleanings to thoroughly remove the bacteria.

For other problems, like old age or mold, you may need to replace the carpet. Knowing where the odor is coming from will help you make the right decision for treatment.

Source: http://www.pantagraph.com/lifestyles/home-and-garden/why-does-my-carpet-smell/article_bfdfccde-9a9f-5f9c-8938-c1ff71734c5b.html

Forensics and Crime Scene Clean Up

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Forensic scientists and crime scene technicians both play an essential role in investigating as well as solving crimes. Another crucial aspect not to be overlooked is crime scene cleanup, which is a critical element following the advent of a crime, particularly violent crimes. In many cases, crime scene cleanup in both commercial and residential settings involves dealing with potentially hazardous materials, such as blood, excrement, semen, and other bodily fluids. Forensics and crime scene cleanup are separate but related areas that must work hand in hand to get the job done. It is not just a matter of solving a crime or determining the cause of an accident, there are also safety concerns to be addressed.

While crime scene techs analyze the accident or crime scene and collect evidence, it is the forensic scientists who analyze the evidence in order to gather clues pointing to a possible suspect, the cause of death, or other key pieces of information. While their roles are quite different, they work in league together and law enforcement counts on the contributions of these professionals to help them solve crimes. Meanwhile, those charged with crime scene cleanup must adhere to strict guidelines and protocols in place for public safety reasons.

The technicians that are tasked with handling such cleanup areas have special training and knowledge to thoroughly evaluate, sanitize, clean, and disinfect a crime scene area, minimize emotional distress related to the incident, and restore a property to its former status. Moreover, these techs must also make certain any hazardous materials involved are disposed of in a proper fashion and that public safety is a priority.

Technicians who are trained in this field are experienced with a wide variety of crime scene cleanup situations. Whether the crime scene involves an accidental death, homicide, suicide, or some other type of injury, these specialists are extensively trained in accessing the scene and handling the cleanup in a thorough as well as professional manner.

ForensicsForensics and crime scene cleanup are separate but related areas that must work together to get the job done. It is important to understand the differences involved in both fields. While crime scene technicians, who are often based at police departments or other law enforcement agencies, spend much of their time in the field, forensic scientists usually work in forensic labs, which are controlled, monitored, and contained. Crime scene techs visit a variety of crime scenes to collect evidence and spend much of their workday out in the field, as well as on their feet. They never know until they arrive at the scene what conditions might be involved or how long it will take to clear the scene. They must sometimes work very long hours to ensure all evidence is collected. Conversely, forensic scientists usually work in a laboratory setting, which are kept comfortable, safe, and not exposed to the elements. Unlike crime scene techs, scientists who specialize in forensics are well aware of the environment they will be exposed to on a daily basis and usually work a standard 40-hour week. 

Once forensics is in order and the techs have completed their collection, crime scene cleanup must be handled before law enforcement can release the scene and allow citizens access to the affected area(s). No matter what quantities of bodily fluids or other contaminants might be present at a crime scene, crime scene cleanup techs are trained to handle the cleanup process with a detail-oriented approach, as well as special attention to safety and security protocols. Much like forensics itself, the devil is in the details.

Forensics

Since forensics is such a specialized area, scientists who are trained in forensics require more formal education than crime scene technicians do. In fact, many crime scene techs start out as law enforcement officers. Crime scene technicians might have a two-year degree and some criminal justice training, especially at rural or smaller law enforcement agencies. Meanwhile, metropolitan or larger departments might require their crime scene technicians to have a bachelor’s degree in science or forensic investigation. On the other hand, scientists who specialize in forensics must have at least an undergraduate degree in a natural science, such as physics, biology, or chemistry. While crime scene technicians need specialized training in criminal investigation, forensic scientists often need only a science degree because they do not investigate crimes directly and are usually not in the field. Instead, they conduct scientific experiments and analysis related to forensics. However, some scientists who pursue this occupation opt to supplement their science training with graduate degrees in forensic investigation.

Other factors to consider in relation to crime scene cleanup include making sure the technicians involved are in fact experts in their field and properly trained, that no crime scene is too big or small to handle, and they are ready to assist those affected through their ordeal, no matter what is involved. Additional important features of a crime scene cleanup team include fast response, around-the-clock availability (24/7/365 days a year), current sanitation and decontamination techniques and/or equipment, as well as full service accommodations at all crime scene locations.

While forensic scientists and crime scene technicians both play an essential role in investigating as well as solving crimes, another crucial aspect not to be overlooked is crime scene cleanup, which is a critical element following the advent of a crime, particularly violent crimes. In many cases, crime scene cleanup in both commercial and residential settings involves dealing with potentially hazardous materials, such as blood, excrement, semen, and other bodily fluids. Forensics and crime scene cleanup are separate but related areas that must work hand in hand to get the job done. It is not just a matter of solving a crime or determining the cause of an accident, there are also many safety concerns to be considered. These safety concerns involve not only the affected crime scene areas, but public safety as well. Any hazardous materials involved in a crime scene must be disposed of in a proper fashion and public safety protocols must be adhered to in order for law enforcement to release the scene, as well as the public to be allowed access.

Need Biohazard Cleanup Services in Rock Hill or Fort Mill?
Call Us Today – (803) 324-5780

Source: http://guardianlv.com/2015/06/534022/

We Are The Leaders In Clover Fire Damage Restoration

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

We have the experience and equipment to restore your home to pre-damage condition after a fire.

Getting Back to Business after Commercial Fire Damage in Clover South Carolina

Your business plan probably does not account for the devastation a fire could bring to your Clover,SC company. Reviewing your options to recover quickly from a fire loss now goes a long way toward readying your staff and your property in case the worst does happen. Consider consulting with our experienced team to evaluate whether your commercial property has apparent vulnerabilities that can lead to a fire or make the damage hard to remediate.

Commercial fire damage is a common reason for your Clover shop, restaurant, or hotel to face temporary closure. Even a few days of shuttered doors can encourage your customers to seek out alternatives. The clock is ticking when fire eliminates or hampers your ability to provide the products and services the community relies on from your business.

Schedule an inspection from an experienced SERVPRO project manager to develop an Emergency Ready Plan and Profile (ERP). We review your physical plant, making recommendations that can lower your risk of a devastating fire. Also, we work with you to prepare for an unexpected blaze that can happen even after you make adjustments to reduce your exposure.

SERVPRO’s extensive experience in fire damage remediation helps us identify issues that make an accidental fire more likely. Expect us to make suggestions about how you manage inventory and other storage, updates of electrical systems, eliminating tangles of extension cords and surge protectors, and maintenance of kitchen and food prep areas, whether you operate a restaurant or merely offer cooking space in a breakroom for employees.

Your input is crucial, and we ask business owners to download and use the SERVPRO ERP app. Provide us information about vendors and contractors who set up your spaces and systems, identify utility shuts offs, and list trusted employees or others you designate to act on your behalf if you are on a trip or otherwise unavailable when a fire disaster strikes. We plan with how to respond to the crisis with just a brief downtime, perhaps containing the damaged area so that business can continue as usual in unaffected spaces.

Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today (803) 324-5780