How Can You Remove and Prevent Mold in Carpets?

7/11/2024 (Permalink)

Our experts are equipped with the right tools and expertise to handle any mold situation in your home, ensuring your environment is safe and clean.

Mold in carpets can be a tricky issue for homeowners. Not only can it ruin the appearance of your carpets, but it can also contribute to an unpleasant odor in your home. Understanding how to effectively remove and prevent mold in your carpets is key to maintaining a clean and fresh home environment. In this blog, we'll explore the steps you can take to tackle mold in your carpets and keep it from coming back.

Identifying Mold in Carpets

Firstly, it's important to know how to identify mold in your carpets. Mold typically appears as patches of black, white, or green discoloration and can often be accompanied by a musty, earthy smell. It’s more likely to occur in areas that remain damp or have been exposed to moisture, such as basements, near bathroom doors, or any places where water has spilled and not been properly dried.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Mold from Carpets

1. Before you start the mold removal process, protect yourself with gloves, a mask, and goggles to prevent contact with mold spores.
2. Mold thrives in moisture, so it's crucial to thoroughly dry the affected area. Use fans or dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture from the room and the carpet.
3. Using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, carefully vacuum the affected area to remove any loose mold spores from the carpet. Dispose of the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after.
4. You can use a commercial mold remover or a natural solution like white vinegar or a mixture of water and baking soda. Spray the solution onto the affected area, ensuring it's sufficiently soaked, and let it sit for at least an hour.
5. Using a scrub brush, gently scrub the area to remove the mold from the carpet fibers.
6. Thoroughly rinse the area with clean water and dry it completely with fans or a wet-dry vacuum.
7. Check the area for any remaining signs of mold. If traces of mold are still visible, repeat the cleaning process.

Preventing Mold in Carpets

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to mold in your carpets. Here are some tips to prevent mold growth:

Control Indoor Humidity

Keep indoor humidity levels low (ideally between 30% and 50%) by using dehumidifiers and air conditioners.

Immediate Drying of Wet Areas

Act quickly to dry any areas of your carpet that become wet. The sooner you dry the carpet, the less chance mold has to grow.

Regular Carpet Cleaning

Regular vacuuming and annual deep cleaning of carpets can prevent the buildup of mold spores in the carpet fibers.

Proper Ventilation

Ensure your home is adequately ventilated, especially in areas prone to dampness like kitchens and bathrooms.

Use Mold Inhibitors

Consider using mold inhibitors which can be added to paints, carpets, and other fibrous materials to prevent mold growth.

Mold in carpets doesn’t have to be a permanent problem. With the right approach to cleaning and prevention, you can remove existing mold and minimize the risk of future growth. Remember, if the mold problem in your carpet is extensive or if the carpet has been wet for a long time, it might be best to call in professionals like SERVPRO of Bartlett/Cordova. Our experts are equipped with the right tools and expertise to handle any mold situation in your home, ensuring your environment is safe and clean.

Restoring Landscaping After Water Damage: Lawn, Garden, and Soil

6/12/2024 (Permalink)

In this blog, we discuss effective strategies for restoring your landscaping after water damage and bringing your outdoor space back to life.

Water damage can extend beyond the interior of your home and affect your outdoor landscaping, including your lawn, garden, and soil. When faced with water-damaged landscaping, knowing how to restore these outdoor areas is essential for maintaining the beauty and health of your property. In this blog, we will discuss effective strategies for restoring your landscaping after water damage and bringing your outdoor space back to life.

Assessing the Damage

Before beginning the restoration process, assess the extent of the water damage to your lawn, garden, and soil. Look for signs of standing water, soil erosion, sediment deposition, and any visible damage to plants, grass, or landscaping features. Understanding the scope of the damage will help guide your restoration efforts.

Drainage and Water Removal

If there is standing water on your lawn or garden, proper drainage is essential for preventing further damage and promoting recovery. Use tools like shovels, rakes, and aeration devices to improve drainage and facilitate water removal from waterlogged areas. Creating channels for water to flow away from the affected areas can help prevent soil saturation and promote drying.

Soil Aeration and Compaction Relief

Water damage can lead to soil compaction, which hinders proper water and air circulation to the roots of your plants. Utilize aeration tools to loosen compacted soil and improve its ability to absorb water and nutrients. This will encourage healthier growth and recovery for your lawn and garden.

Remove Debris and Contaminants

Clear debris, sediments, and any contaminants that may have been deposited on your lawn and in your garden as a result of water damage. Carefully remove any foreign materials to prevent smothering and damaging your plants and grass.

Reseeding and Planting

If water damage has caused significant damage to your lawn or garden, reseeding and replanting may be necessary to restore the greenery and vibrancy of your landscaping. Choose appropriate grass, plants, and flowers suited for your climate and soil conditions. Proper preparation of the soil, including adding organic matter and nutrients, will help promote successful growth and recovery.

Fertilization and Soil Amendments

After water damage, your soil may benefit from fertilization and soil amendments to replenish essential nutrients and promote healthy plant growth. Utilize fertilizers and organic amendments to restore the soil's fertility and support the recovery of your landscaping.

Professional Assistance for Restoration

In some cases, water damage to your landscaping may be extensive and require professional assistance for comprehensive restoration. If you are dealing with severe landscape damage, consider reaching out to experienced restoration professionals who specialize in restoring water-damaged outdoor areas. Their expertise and resources can help ensure a successful recovery for your landscaping.

Monitoring and Maintenance

After implementing restoration efforts, monitor the progress of your lawn, garden, and soil recovery. Proper maintenance, including regular watering, mulching, and weed control, will be essential for supporting the ongoing health and restoration of your landscaping.

In conclusion, restoring your landscaping after water damage is vital for preserving the beauty and integrity of your outdoor space. By taking proactive steps to assess the damage, improve drainage, rejuvenate the soil, and promote plant recovery, you can effectively restore your lawn, garden, and soil. Remember, if you require professional assistance for the restoration of water-damaged landscaping, contact SERVPRO® for expert guidance and support. Our experienced professionals can help you navigate the restoration process and bring your outdoor space back to life.

The Dos and Don'ts of Using Generators During Storm Outages

5/15/2024 (Permalink)

In this blog post, we will explore the dos and don'ts of using generators during storm outages.

When a storm emergency strikes and power outages occur, having a generator can be a lifesaver. Generators provide an alternative source of electricity and help keep essential appliances and devices running during the outage. However, it's essential to use generators safely to prevent accidents and potential damage. In this blog post, we will explore the dos and don'ts of using generators during storm outages to ensure your safety and the proper functioning of your generator.

The Dos

1. DO Choose the Right Generator: Select a generator that meets your power needs. Consider the appliances and devices you want to power, and choose a generator with the appropriate wattage capacity.
2. DO Follow Manufacturer's Instructions: Read and understand the manufacturer's instructions before operating your generator. Different generators have specific requirements and safety guidelines that must be followed.
3. DO Set Up the Generator Outside: Always use generators in well-ventilated areas outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Never operate a generator in an enclosed space, such as a garage or basement, as it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
4. DO Use a Transfer Switch: Install a transfer switch to connect the generator to your home's electrical system safely. This ensures that power is distributed properly and prevents electricity from back-feeding into power lines, which can be dangerous for utility workers.
5. DO Allow the Generator to Cool Down: Before refueling the generator, turn it off and allow it to cool down for a few minutes. This minimizes the risk of fuel igniting and causing a fire.
6. DO Manage Fuel Safety: Store fuel in approved containers and in a safe location away from the generator and other flammable materials. Never refuel a generator while it is running or still hot.

The Don'ts

1. DON'T Connect Generators Directly to Household Wiring: Connecting a generator directly to your home's electrical system without a transfer switch can back-feed electricity into the power lines, posing a threat to utility workers and potentially causing damage to your generator.
2. DON'T Overload the Generator: Ensure that the total wattage of the appliances and devices you connect to the generator does not exceed its capacity. Overloading the generator can lead to overheating, damage, and safety hazards.
3. DON'T Operate a Generator in Wet Conditions: Keep the generator and its outlets dry to prevent electrical shock. If operating the generator in wet conditions is unavoidable, use a generator cover or operate it under a shelter to protect it from moisture.
4. DON'T Forget Routine Maintenance: Regularly inspect and service your generator to ensure it is in good working condition. Follow the maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer to prevent potential breakdowns during storm outages.
5. DON'T Leave the Generator Unattended: Always monitor the generator while it is running to ensure its safe and proper operation. If you need to leave the house, turn off the generator before doing so.

In conclusion, using generators during storm outages can provide much-needed power, but safety should be a top priority. By following the dos and don'ts listed above, you can ensure the safe operation of your generator and prevent accidents and damage. Make sure to incorporate these guidelines into your storm damage plan to be prepared for any future power outages. At SERVPRO®, we are here to help with any storm damage cleanup and restoration needs after storms and power outages.

The Benefits of Fire Damage Restoration Certification

4/17/2024 (Permalink)

In this blog, we will explore the benefits of having a fire damage restoration certification and how it can elevate your business to new heights.

In the field of fire damage restoration, possessing the necessary skills and knowledge is crucial to ensure effective and efficient restoration services. Obtaining a fire damage restoration certification can provide numerous benefits for restoration businesses. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of having a fire damage restoration certification and how it can elevate your business to new heights.

Enhanced Expertise and Knowledge

Fire damage restoration certification programs provide comprehensive training on the principles and techniques of fire remediation. By becoming certified, restoration professionals gain a deep understanding of fire damage restoration procedures, industry best practices, and the latest advancements in the field. This knowledge equips them with the expertise needed to handle various situations and deliver high-quality restoration services.

Credibility and Trust

Having a fire damage restoration certification enhances your business's credibility and instills trust among clients and insurance providers. Certification demonstrates your commitment to professionalism, ethical conduct, and industry standards. It assures customers that they are dealing with competent and qualified professionals who follow established guidelines for fire damage cleanup and restoration. This increased credibility can lead to greater customer satisfaction and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

Competitive Advantage

In a highly competitive industry, securing a competitive edge is crucial. By obtaining a fire damage restoration certification, you set yourself apart from your competitors who may lack proper training or certification. Potential clients are more likely to choose a certified restoration specialist over others due to the assurance of expertise and professionalism. Certification can give your business a competitive advantage, ultimately leading to increased opportunities and growth.

Compliance with Regulations and Insurance Requirements

Fire damage restoration certifications ensure that your business complies with industry regulations and insurance requirements. Insurance providers often require certification as proof of expertise before approving claims or partnering with restoration companies. By obtaining certification, you position your business to work seamlessly with insurance providers and navigate the requirements efficiently, contributing to a smoother claims process.

Ability to Tackle Complex Restoration Projects

Fire damage restoration can be a complex and challenging process, requiring a comprehensive understanding of the various factors involved. Certification equips restoration professionals with the necessary skills to assess, plan, and execute restoration projects effectively, regardless of size or complexity. With certification, your business can confidently tackle complex projects, ensuring successful outcomes and satisfied clients.

Professional Development and Recognition

Fire damage restoration certifications provide ongoing professional development opportunities and keep restoration professionals updated on the latest industry trends, techniques, and technologies. Continued education and training ensure that your business stays at the forefront of the industry and is equipped to meet evolving customer needs. Additionally, with certification, your business gains recognition among peers and industry experts, enhancing your reputation and opening doors to collaboration and networking opportunities.

Obtaining a fire damage restoration certification offers numerous benefits for restoration businesses. From enhanced expertise and credibility to compliance with regulations and a competitive edge, certification elevates the professionalism and reputation of your business. By investing in certification and continually updating your knowledge and skills, you position your business for success in the dynamic field of fire damage cleanup and restoration. If you're ready to take your restoration business to the next level, consider the advantages of becoming fire restoration certified with a respected certification program like SERVPRO®.

The Power of Master Service Agreements: Fast Response and Strong Relationships

8/23/2023 (Permalink)

In the fast-paced world of business, rapid response is essential, especially during emergencies. Picture this: a national heatwave causes an abrupt A/C outage, with the potential to turn a hospital into an oven of stress and panic. In times like these, having a Master Service Agreement (MSA) in place can be the lifeline that transforms panic into a strategic, well-managed solution.

A Race Against Time

SERVPRO® Team Nicholson's Scott Askew and his crew proved the power of an MSA recently. Within hours of receiving the call, our team was on-site, ready to help. Seven hours later, cooling equipment was up and running - thanks to our subcontractor, Coastal Mechanical. We even had a team of welders fabricating quick hose connections in the hospital parking lot in order to connect the mobile chillers to the hospital's existing cooling system.

By the evening, the hospital was cooling to a comfortable temperature, all without displacing patients or disrupting critical operations. The team avoided an evacuation and multiple diversions, where a hospital has to transfer patients to another hospital. In the end, all this was possible without having to tell an MSA client, "no," — the word doesn't exist in our vocabulary anyways.

Building a Bridge to Swift Solutions

The MSA is more than just a contract - we become your logistics team, your trusted solutions provider. The last thing a business owner wants is to face a double emergency – the primary situation and its repercussions. Like the scramble to evacuate patients, and to secure specialized equipment, like chillers, at odd hours in order to prevent high temperatures from spoiling medication. An MSA eliminates the chaos, minimizing the complexity and severity of interruptions to business.

The Value of Strong Relationships

In the realm of crisis management, strong relationships are worth their weight in gold. Our connections with clients, subcontractor partnerships, and a network of SERVPRO teams across the nation, our bonds serve as the cornerstone of effective and efficient solutions. When challenges arise, leveraging our network's capabilities means clients have access to additional equipment and resources quickly.

In a world of emergencies, a Master Service Agreement isn't just a contract – it's a promise - to provide rapid response, leverage strong relationships, and transform potential chaos into smoothly managed solutions. It's the assurance that when a crisis arises, our team of professionals is ready to shift the perspective - becoming your total solutions provider for whatever happens.

What Happens When I Have Water Damage?

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

Nobody likes the unexpected. It can be scary and overwhelming, in worst cases, time consuming and costly. SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova will try and ease the unexpected blow. We're a team of highly trained individuals with specialized equipment, tools, and skills needed to make sure that your water damage is taken care of swiftly and adequately.

What Can You Expect When You Call Us?

One of our employees will first take your call; we'll take your name, number, and address down and then ask detailed questions to know exactly what your situation looks like. As we hang up the phone with you, we'll dispatch a team out to your home and/or business so they can be on-site as quickly as possible. Additionally, you'll be assigned an admin within the office to take care of your job – they will give you updates and work with your insurance provider.

Once we get to your home, we will extract any standing water that needs to be removed using either a handheld extractor or an extractor that we can ride on. We will then place fans and dehumidifiers to help with the drying process.

In the next few days, we will continue to monitor the drying process, making sure that we inspect all possible affected areas for water damage. If you find yourself with an unexpected water loss, give SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova a call at (901) 382-0900! We'll help make it "Like it never even happened."

4 Tips For Flood Protection

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

Flood Protection

When heavy rains descend, your building in Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, may be in danger of flood damage. To avoid having to put your business on hold for massive flood cleanup, follow these tips to protect your building from significant damage.

1. Inspect Building Frequently

You are likely sticking to a seasonal inspection schedule, but if the forecast indicates that a strong storm is approaching, it makes sense to inspect it again. Look at your exterior walls, foundation, and roof to see if there're any cracks where water could get in. If you find any problems, contact storm damage experts for repairs that can be done before the storm hits.

2. Keep Drainage System Clean

Giving excess water a place to go is vital to keeping it out of your building. Gutters and downspouts should always be kept free of debris, particularly during storm season. Directing the downpour away from the roof and base of your building can help prevent flood damage.

3. Test Basement Pumps

If there's flooding in your basement, you will inevitably need storm cleanup. You can lower your costs by making sure your sump pump is working. These pumps are designed to start getting rid of water as soon as the sensors are triggered. Regular testing, particularly before a major storm hits, is advisable.

4. Have an Emergency Plan

If your building floods, an emergency plan can help everyone understand clearly what they are supposed to do. Make sure it is up to date and that all employees have access to the latest version. Assign tasks that designate what each person needs to do in the event of a flood emergency.You may not be able to avoid all flood damage in your building during a, particularly aggressive storm. You can minimize its effects, however, by taking the necessary precautions. These tips help ensure that your building is as flood-resistant as possible.

What You Need To Know About Commercial Water Damage

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

Experiencing water damage at your or Bartlett, TN or Cordova, TN business can be stressful, especially when it affects equipment and inventory. Many water emergencies are the result of a plumbing mishap and are graded into different categories. A Category 1 water emergency originates from a clean water source; however, there are a few facts you may want to be aware of to ensure proper cleanup.

Water Appliances Are A Common Leak Source

When a Category 1 flood occurs, the origin point is usually an appliance that dispenses water, such as a breakroom sink, an automatic ice maker, or a water cooler. Supply line leaks and breakage are often responsible. You can stem the water flow by shutting off the main water supply valve and sealing off the area until help arrives.

Sanitary Water Can Degrade Quickly 

Although Category 1 flood events have a clean water source, such as a broken pipe in your restaurant's kitchen, the resulting standing water can break down rapidly due to bacteria formation. Humidity and the introduction of dirt and debris from people's shoes as they attempt to clean up the mess. It is a good idea to call in flood damage and remediation service as quickly as possible to prevent water stagnation.

Mold Growth May Still Occur 

Unlike Category 3 water, which contains toxins and unsanitary debris, Category 1 can be simpler to deal with cleanup efforts. However, it is essential to remember that mold growth may occur days to weeks later if it is not adequately cleaned and dried. Mold grows in humid, moist areas and can flourish undetected behind drywall and underneath carpet padding. Ask your remediation technicians how to prevent this issue and whether your building is vulnerable after a Category 1 flood.

Clean water flooding at your Bartlett, TN, or Cordova, TN, business may not seem too serious at first. However, there're a few dangers connected with such an event, and knowing what to expect can help you protect the future of your commercial building.

3 Reasons You Need to Replace Your Pipes

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

Reasons to Upgrade Your Plumbing System to Something New

While the plumbing system in your Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, building is made to last, whether made from steel or polybutylene, it certainly won't last forever. It may cost some time and money, but it is a good idea to have these replaced occasionally. Here are a few reasons to upgrade to something new.

1. They're Old

One apparent reason to have your pipes replaced is, they have gotten old. Even the most sturdy system will deteriorate over time. How long your system will last before you need to install new plumbing will depend on the materials used, so it is a good idea to keep this information in mind. Whatever the material, if it has been several decades since your pipes were installed, it's probably time to have them replaced.

2. They're Damaged

Broken pipes can cause massive water damage, so you should have them replaced as quickly as possible. Pipes can break as the result of deterioration, freezing during cold weather, or even the growth of tree roots nearby. If your pipes are relatively new, you will likely not need to replace the whole system and focus only on the affected area.

3. They're Made from Polybutylene

If your plumbing system was installed between the 1970s and 1990s, they were possibly made with Polybutylene (PB) pipes. PB pipes were often used because they were easy to install and were relatively inexpensive. However, over time, it became apparent that they broke too quickly and could leach chemicals into the water. If you have PB pipes, replace them as soon as possible.

While you should try to replace your pipes before they cause any damage, accidents can happen. If you have suffered from water damage to your business, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova can help. They can perform cleanup and repairs to restore your building quickly.

Protecting What Matters: The Emergency Plan Every Parent Needs Before School Starts

8/8/2023 (Permalink)

Does your child know what to do?

Do You Have a Back-to-School Family Emergency Plan?

No one likes to think that an emergency could happen to them, but the reality is that disaster can happen anytime, anywhere, including while your child is at school.

Even if you never end up needing your family emergency plan, it's best to be prepared—just in case. Having a detailed plan in place will give you everyday peace of mind, and—in the event of an emergency—could save lives.

Emergency Contacts

1. List 1-3 trusted emergency contacts who can pick up your child from school if you are unable to do so.

2. Confirm their availability and willingness to be emergency contacts.

3. Teach your child how to contact each person by phone.

4. Familiarize your child with each contact's appearance and vehicle.

Communicate with the School

1. Keep school up-to-date with who is allowed to pick your child up.

2. Provide correct contact information and identification for their records.

3. Inquire about the school's policies for emergency situations and designated pick-up areas.

Alternative Drop-Off Locations

1. Establish an alternative drop-off location in case emergency contacts cannot be reached promptly.

2. This location could be a trusted friend or family member's house, or another secure spot.

3. Familiarize your child with the alternate location's address and phone number to accurately guide authorities there.

Re-Evaluate Each Year

As your child ages, changes schools, or your family moves, it's smart to update your plan annually. 

Although we hope your family never experiences an unexpected disaster, if you do, SERVPRO® is available 24/7/365 for emergency service. Learn more here. Your family's safety and preparedness are paramount, and having a well-structured emergency plan is a crucial step in ensuring their protection.