Common Signs of Mold Growth

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton is ready 24/7 to help you fight mold.

Dealing with mold growth is something that no home or business owner wants to deal with, but unfortunately, mold can be a persistent thing. Mold spores are always present in the air so there is the threat of them finding a nice spot to land. Thankfully, mold can only grow and expand in conditions that are favorable to its needs.

One of the conditions that mold likes best is areas that are dark without a lot of airflow—and because mold spores are airborne, they can quickly find places that fit the bill. This means that mold often grows in areas that are not readily apparent or accessible, meaning it is important to be aware of the signs of mold growth so you know what to look for.

The Common Indicators That a Building Could Have Mold Growth

Persistent, Dank Odors

One of the most evident (and frustrating) signs of mold is the persistent odor it produces.

Because mold’s main function in nature is to help organic matter decay, the smell it produces is dank and pungent. If you notice a persistent smell in an area that does not go away or worsens with time, it may be an indicator that mold is present somewhere in the area.

Water Damage That Was Improperly Treated

Mold loves areas that are moisture-heavy, which means water damage can often turn into a

mold problem if it is not treated properly. Water damage can soak into drywall, carpet pads and other hidden areas, and if it is not fully and properly addressed, it can lead to hidden mold growth in these unseen areas throughout the home.

Black Spots on Clothing or Fabrics

Mold can often make its home on fabrics, so if you begin noticing that clothes in your closet or upholstery on your furniture begins to attract spots of mold, that might be an indicator that there is a bigger issue elsewhere in the building. Because mold is airborne, it can travel from the main area it has set up for itself and attach to other objects as it tries to spread.

If you have questions about mold or are in need of mold remediation, we are here to help. Get in touch today to learn more about our services!

Fire Safety Tips for the Whole Family

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

If you need help recovering after a fire, SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton is ready 24/7.

Fire safety is such an important thing for any household. House fires can be dangerous and traumatic, causing significant household damage and putting anyone in the vicinity directly in

harm’s way. Fortunately, fire safety is also a goal that the entire family can get involved with, keeping everyone more invested in safety and more prepared, just in case.

Many fire safety tips are things the entire family can participate in, which makes it a great family activity. Depending on who is in your household, it may be necessary to adjust some of these tips accordingly—for example, toddlers may have a great time drawing escape plans, while older kids may be more suited to smoke detector test duty.

However, we hope these general guidelines are helpful in getting everyone on the same page

for your home’s fire safety.

Fire Safety Tasks for Young Children

**Drawing an escape route.** Escaping quickly is key when it comes to a house fire, so an escape plan is a must. Young children can often be helpful here, drawing lines from each room

to indicate every exit.

**Being accountable for hazards.** Unattended candles, space heaters and cooking food can all be major fire hazards. Oftentimes, young children can make great safety accountability buddies,

calling out these hazards when they notice them.

Fire Safety Tasks for Older Children

**Checking smoke detectors.** Smoke detectors should be tested monthly, which can often be a great chore for preteens and teens in the home.

**Managing fire escape drills.** It is important to have a fire escape plan, and just as important to practice it regularly. Older children can be great at managing these drills, from planning them

out to debriefing as a family in order to see where there may be room for improvement.

**Cleaning out the dryer lint trap.** If your older children do their own laundry, it is important that they understand the importance of cleaning out the dryer lint trap. This is a commonly overlooked fire hazard, but the lint can heat up while the dryer is running and lead to a fire.

*If you have household damage due to a fire, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our fire restoration options or get in touch 24/7 for a rapid response

Our Commercial Fire Large Loss Restoration Services

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton to restore your commercial property after a fire has caused a large loss.

As a business owner, there are a lot of things to be concerned about when it comes to keeping the doors open. One important element of running a business is having a plan when disaster strikes and strikes hard.

Disasters can come in many sizes, but one that is perhaps one of the most concerning is what is called a “large loss” to your commercial property. A “large loss” is defined as a large scale loss that has a considerable financial impact to your business.

What can SERVPRO do about a large loss for your business?

Emergency Response. We have emergency services on deck 24⁄7 to answer the call for whenever you might need us. We will act immediately to contain the damage and start the repair procedure. We’ve worked with commercial organizations of all kinds for more than 50 years, and we are the experts in cleaning up after large-scale damage and getting businesses just like yours back up and running as fast as possible.

Treating the Damage. Our pros in green consist of licensed experts who have been educated in specialized procedures for removing water and treating smoke damage in your commercial property after a fire. Even if the bulk of your building has been affected, we work diligently to rescue what can be restored and detect issues that may be invisible to the untrained eye. Getting your business back up and running is critical, and we do our best to ensure the work is done correctly and thoroughly while working as quickly as possible. With our knowledge and industry-leading equipment, we’re able to do the most comprehensive job in the shortest amount of time.

When you call on SERVPRO for large-loss restoration services, you can count on consistent communication throughout the duration of the job, the highest-quality products and unmatched customer service. We understand the worry that commercial property damage may cause.

The subsequent difficulties caused by smoke, water from firefighting efforts and structural damage might make your business seem irreparable. You can put your confidence in our technicians, who will work hard to treat the damage, identify any objects that need restoration or replacement, and even coordinate with your insurance provider.

Allow SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton to restore your commercial property after a fire has caused a large loss and interruptions to business. We are on hand 24⁄7, ready to take your call right now.

Storm Preparation Can Save Your Life

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

Storm preparation can save your life, let SERVPRO help you get ready!

When a severe storm warning is issued, you race to prepare, unsure of what to do first to keep you and your family safe. Preparing for storms ahead of time can keep you from having to rush to make a plan.

But with that in mind, 42% of Americans say they do not have an evacuation plan in place. A lack of preparation for an impending storm puts you at risk of the storm’s fatal effects.

Here are a few steps you should take ahead of time to prepare:

Develop a safety plan. The first step in storm preparation is to create a safety plan. Make a household meeting place and, in the event of an evacuation, know where you need to go. Make sure that everyone in your household is aware of any impending weather events and what they can do to stay safe.

Pack an emergency kit. Having an emergency kit on hand ensures that all of the essential items you may need in the event of an emergency or evacuation are all in one place. Items such as emergency food and water, medical supplies, flashlights, and a first-aid kit should be included. Keep your kit in a location where everyone in the house can access it when needed.

Prepare valuable possessions. Flood water can enter your home during severe storms, and if your belongings aren’t in a safe area, they might be ruined by water damage. Passports, birth certificates, family photos and any other items that are too important to lose should be stored in a plastic bag or a waterproof container.

Stay informed. Keep an eye out for local weather alerts to get ahead of any approaching storms. You can stay up to date on current weather events by listening to local radio and television stations. Make sure you understand the difference between a storm warning and a storm watch, as they require distinct preparation measures.

Find a safe place to stay. If you need to shelter in place, stay in your basement or an interior room with no windows. If you feel you need to find a safer place to shelter, you can search for a local mass care shelter to evacuate to. Wherever you find yourself during a storm, be sure to always bring your emergency kit.

When severe storms damage your property, quick action can prevent further damage. SERVPRO is available 24/7 to repair storm damage of any size ASAP.

Your Partners in Business

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton is your local commercial restoration expert. Contact us today should you experience any damage.

When running a business, to say that it can be stressful at times is quite an understatement. As a business owner, you know how difficult it can be to have things always run smoothly. Major damages or accidents can cause major losses to a company, and that’s something we want to help you avoid.

That’s why you can count on SERVPRO to become your partner in the business world. We are locally owned and operated, and we will help you work through or recover from anything that can possibly take away from your business. Our goal is to help you and your business continue down the road to success.

Large loss recovery. The top cause of financial loss for businesses across the United States are fires, storms and flooding. These things can and likely will cause large amounts of damage, especially if you wait before dealing with the problem. That’s where SERVPRO can come in with our highly trained professionals to help get you on the road to recovery.

Emergency Ready Plan. Preparation is key, which is why you need to prepare your business before disaster strikes. We will help you create and put the perfect plan into place, so that when disaster comes, you know exactly what to do. There are specific things you should consider when planning, like having an emergency chain of command, alternate meeting or work sites, and how to handle restoration needs.

Cleaning of All Kinds. We can help you with any specialty cleaning needs you have, like biohazard removal,, as well as routine cleaning needs like carpet cleaning or upholstery restoration. No matter what the messy issue is, we will come up with a solution to get it cleaned.

Restoration Services. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage or a small kitchen fire got out of hand, these things require cleanup and restoration services. SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton has all the bases covered, offering comprehensive restoration services for water damage, fire damage and storm damage, among other emergencies.

Industry Specialization. We have spent years learning about commercial enterprises, so we know that we can help anyone. We know the ins and outs of a variety of industries and stand prepared to handle those needs. Because we understand how important your business is, we will often enclose a work area during restoration so that your business operations aren’t disrupted. Whatever your recovery need may be, and whatever your commercial property may require, trust SERVPRO to get the job done. Contact us today to get started on an Emergency Ready Plan or find out how we can serve your business.

How Thorough Should My Business' Severe Weather Plan Be?

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

If you need assistance creating a Safety Plan for your business, give SERVPRO of Fayette/S/ Fulton a call today.

If you have not yet done so, adding “create a severe weather plan” to your to-do list is a must as a business owner. Not only is an emergency action plan required by OSHA for all employers, but it is also a good idea for everyone involved.

Being prepared can keep you and your staff safer in the event of a severe weather incident, and can encourage everyone to stay calm in what can quickly turn into a chaotic scenario. However, if you are new to emergency action planning, you may be wondering how thorough your severe weather plan should actually be. While it is important to make sure all of your bases are covered, it is also important to remember that weather is unpredictable by nature and your plan should ultimately reflect that.

The Basic Outline of Your Severe Weather Action Plan

**Determine where everyone will go.** In the event of severe weather that strikes while staff is on-site, it is important that everyone stays put until the threat has passed. You will want to determine in advance what the safest area of your building is, as that is where everyone should go when the weather turns sour. Ideally, this will be a room at or below the ground floor of the building that is free from any windows or external-facing walls.

**Determine what everyone will need.** In the event of severe weather, a power outage is extremely likely. That is why it is important to create an emergency kit for your staff, stored in the area you will seek shelter. This kit should include flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies and anything else to keep everyone comfortable during a power outage. It is also a good idea to include food and water so no one will need to leave the area prematurely.

**Determine your communication plan.** Trying to communicate with employees during a chaotic scenario is less than ideal, so think in advance about how you will keep them updated. Communicate the severe weather protocol in advance, and ensure that everyone knows exactly what to do if there is an imminent threat.

*If your building is damaged by severe weather, you can count on us. Get in touch today to learn more about our restoration process.*

SERPVRO assists with large commercial loss

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

If your company encounters any damage to your property, call the experts at SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties.

Floods, fires, blizzards and other extreme weather disasters or workplace incidents may cause enormous damage to warehouses, offices, retail shops and other commercial structures.

Flooding and fire disasters are two of the most common causes of severe economic losses.

COMMERCIAL WATER DAMAGE. Commercial water damage from flooding or other events can be devastating and costly. According to the U.S. government, the average commercial flood claim in the past five years has been around $89,000. Flooding may cause major damage to flooring, building material and drywall, putting the structure at danger. Furthermore, valuable and essential machinery and electronics may be damaged.

When you call SERVPRO, we will arrive as soon as possible to begin removing flood water and prevent it from spreading and creating further damage and difficulties.

SERVPRO professionals are highly trained and prepared to remove huge amounts of standing water and excess moisture from commercial buildings. We can also dry and repair construction materials, documents and electronics that have been damaged.

Our skilled water removal equipment can remove large amounts of standing water, while our cutting-edge drying equipment can remove excess moisture from any afflicted areas of the property. We can restore any of your essential devices (computers, TVs, monitors and so on) and assist in the recovery of lost data if they are damaged. We may also provide comprehensive restoration services if any structural aspects of your building are affected.

COMMERCIAL FIRE DAMAGE. Another disastrous catastrophe that might happen in a business environment is a fire. When they occur, they usually spread swiftly and do significant damage to the property and its contents.

Because damages are caused not only by the fire itself, but also by soot, smoke, firefighting attempts and other byproducts, there is more to clean and restore than the building itself.

We clean up and repair all affected areas after a fire through highly specialized solutions. As well as repairing any structural damage caused by the fire, we can also repair items that have been harmed by soot, smoke or water damage from firefighting efforts as much as possible.

While fires and floods are two of the most prevalent calamities that companies and organizations encounter on their property, there are still a plethora of other large loss events that we can handle. If you are a company owner who has encountered a damaging incident on your property, call SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton counties and we’ll respond to your emergency immediately.

Do You Know What Pipes Are Vulnerable to Freezing?

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

???If you have water damage due to frozen pipes, contact SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton counties today.

Experiencing winter weather can certainly be an inconvenience. Between cold temperatures and high winds, it is not a season designed for comfort. However, when things turn frigid, there is also cause for concern regarding the pipes in your home.

While frozen pipes may seem like a problem that only occurs in the chilliest of places, depending on your home’s construction and insulation levels, it is still a real possibility here, too.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage and freezing makes up over 23% of homeowner insurance claims in the United States. While instances of water damage due to frozen pipes may be covered on your insurance, it is still a headache that is better avoided when possible.

Below, we will look at the pipes in the home that are most vulnerable to freezing so you can be certain you know what to look out for.

The Pipes in a Home That Are the Most Vulnerable to Freezing

Pipes along exterior walls of the home. Depending on your home’s layout, plumbing can be routed through the walls in a variety of ways. Plumbing for the interior is commonly routed through exterior walls, and if you have outdoor spigots on your home, these pipes are also exposed to more of the exterior temperatures. When things get rather cold, these are typically the first pipes to freeze.

Pipes in the attic, crawlspace or basement. If you have an attic, crawlspace or basement that is not insulated, it is important to note if you also have plumbing in these areas. If you do, know that these pipes are also prone to freezing if it were to get cold enough. These pipes are rarely routed close to a home’s insulation, so they may be extra exposed.

Any home in a southern climate. While we may think of frozen pipes as a problem that only occurs in the cold of the northern half of the country, it is very likely for homes in the south to experience frozen pipes, too. Pipes in the south are rarely insulated heavily, so when we do get a cold snap, they are likely to be impacted.

If you have water damage due to frozen pipes, we can help. Contact us today to learn more about our water restoration services.

A Look at Various Types of Business Insurance

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

If you are interested in learning more about how to prepare your business for a disaster, contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton today to learn more.

A successful business is a fantastic thing, and it certainly does not come about by accident. Business owners are no strangers to the hard work it requires to build a successful enterprise, and whether you are new to the world of entrepreneurship or a seasoned veteran, you know how important protecting your investment is.

One of the best ways you can protect your business investment is by making sure that you are properly covered with your commercial insurance. We are all too familiar with how devastating a flood, fire or other disaster can be for a business, but with careful planning, you can significantly mitigate your risk.

Understanding Different Types of Business Insurance

General liability insurance: General liability insurance is the base of all other commercial insurance coverages, but it is a rather important one. General liability protects you from a variety of damages, including many types of property damage. As your business grows, it is important to be sure to revisit your coverage regularly so you can have the most amount of protection possible.

Flood insurance: Business owners are often surprised to discover that flood insurance is its own category of coverage, and all too many discover this the hard way. It is vital to make sure that you have the proper coverage in the event of a flood. That way, if there is a natural disaster, you can be certain you are covered if a flood impacts your business and causes damage.

Commercial property insurance: If you have a high investment in property or physical assets for your business, commercial property insurance is something to consider. This provides coverage in addition to your general liability insurance, and can become useful in the event that there is a fire, severe weather event or other type of damage at your business’ property that causes damages.

Business interruption insurance: If there is a fire at your business, or a natural disaster that interrupts operations, being able to make up for those losses is a must. Oftentimes, general liability insurance will not cover lost income in the event of a closure, but business interruption insurance will.

If you are interested in learning more about how to prepare your business for a disaster, we can help. Contact us today to learn more about commercial restoration or to get tips about what to do if you experience damage at your business.

The 411 on Commercial Water Damage Prevention

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

If your business is affected by water damage, reach out to your local restoration expert SERVPRO of Fayette/S.Fulton

Water damage is often unanticipated and comes in all shapes and sizes, whether it is caused by a flash flood, a burst pipe or a leaky roof. No matter if it is pooling water in your ceiling that can go unnoticed or you’re standing in water up to your knees, water damage can cause significant untimely and costly interruptions to your operations.

In many circumstances, however, preventive measures can be taken to avert severe delays or property damage. The following are a few recommendations to inspect and prepare you in protecting your facility from water damage:

Check for plumbing issues. One indicator of plumping issues could be if you’ve observed a substantial increase in your water bill, a pipe or plumbing equipment is almost certainly to fault. You can check your walls, floors and ceilings for indications of leaks. Discoloration or mildew development is also a reliable indicator that a pipe is damaged or leaking. Whatever you discover, be certain to get it repaired as quickly as possible.

Install a water-sensing device. You can find water sensors available at practically any home improvement store. The devices provide alerts or alarms in the case of a water leak, allowing you to contain the damage and respond quickly. The majority of sensors may be connected to your smartphone or integrated with your facility’s security system, enabling you to get alerts even while you’re not on-site.

Look at the windows and doors. Water making its way indoors from outside during storms or rain is another frequent cause of water damage. Examine the area surrounding your windows, doors and any other exposed locations. Be sure to reseal any gaps or cracks using caulking that is waterproof. Additionally, refinish window or door trim to provide additional protection against decaying seals and trimming.

Regularly inspect the roof. Have an expert inspect your roof to discover places that might leak. Different types of roofing may need different treatments such as sealing on a regular basis to provide an additional layer of protection. Additionally, remember to clean the gutters to ensure that rainfall flows easily away from the roof. Take note of locations that are prone to drainage problems. Along the outside your building, be sure to look for spots that may be prone to water accumulation if the ground gets too wet. Consider getting the help of a landscaper or drainage specialist to do an inspection of the area and provide proper draining.

If your business is affected by water damage, enlist the help your local experts at SERVPRO of Fayette/S.Fulton. We are here to help 24⁄7 whenever disaster might strike.

A Guide to Fire Code Considerations for Your Commercial Space

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

If your business needs help with fire damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton Counties 24/7/365.

If you own or operate a business or other commercial space, understanding how to protect your investment and your employees from harm related to fire damage is a must. Not only are fires extremely dangerous for anyone who is in the area, but they can also be devastating to businesses—it is estimated that over half of businesses are unable to recover from a fire.

Fortunately, businesses are able to take many precautions when it comes to fire prevention, and national commercial fire codes are a great place to start. While each area will have their own local codes that should also be followed, below, we will examine some of the national codes that can help you keep your business safe and operational.

Fire Codes Pertaining to Commercial Sprinkler Systems

While they are not required in all types of commercial buildings, a commercial fire sprinkler system can be a fantastic way to reduce the risk of a fire severely impacting your business. Typically, the rules for fire sprinkler systems are that they must be installed in any commercial building over 5,000 square feet and any building that is taller than 55 feet in height.

Fire Codes Pertaining to Fire Alarms

While smaller commercial spaces are not always required to have a fire alarm system, installing them is a simple enough process that it is always a good idea. By alerting people to the fire quickly, your employees and customers will have more time to escape, which could potentially save a life. If possible, it is best to invest in interconnected fire alarms, so that when one is triggered, they will all sound to alert everyone in the area.

Fire Codes Pertaining to Fire Extinguishers

All businesses are required to have fire extinguishers on the premises, but how many and where they should be located varies based on the size and nature of the commercial space in question. Additionally, business owners are required to have fire extinguisher training with all employees at least once per year to be certain that everyone is aware of how to use a fire extinguisher and comfortable with the best practices.

If your business needs help with fire damage, you can count on us. We are here 24 hours a day to help you recover in the aftermath of a commercial fire. Contact us today to learn more.

Do You Have a Plan for Staff Safety in Severe Weather?

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Do you have a Plan for Severe Weather? Reach out to SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton

Severe weather can be an extremely dangerous thing. Not only is it often unpredictable, but it is also quick-moving—meaning waiting to prepare when it becomes imminent can put you in harm’s way.

If you are a business owner, preparing in advance is even more important, as it will help you keep both yourself and your staff safer in the event of weather concerns.

If you have not yet put together a plan for severe weather, now would be the time to do so. Not only is it a requirement from OSHA that you have an emergency action plan in place, but it is also a smart way to keep everyone calm and comfortable even when the weather goes south. There are a lot of key elements in emergency planning, but below, we will focus specifically on some things to consider to keep your staff safe.

How to Keep Your Staff Safe During Severe Weather

**Make planning a collaborative process.** Having an emergency action plan is great, but it does not do much good for your organization if no one is aware of what the plan is. Make sure you include your staff in the planning process and keep them aware of what protocols to follow should severe weather become imminent.

**Make sure everyone’s needs are accounted for.** It is a good idea to pack a general emergency kit for your workplace to cover things like flashlights, first-aid supplies and general items to keep everyone comfortable in the event of a power outage. However, you should also encourage staff to have their own personal emergency kits that meet their needs—that way, if there is an emergency scenario, they will have access to necessities such as medication and personal items.

**Make it clear where everyone should go.** In the event of a severe weather event, you and your staff will need to seek shelter on-site until the threat passes. Be sure you have a safe area clearly identified so staff know exactly where to go. This area should not have any windows or external-facing walls, and ideally will be at or below the building’s ground floor.

*If your building has damage due to severe weather, we are the team to call! Contact us today to learn more about our storm restoration practices.*

Potential Spring Weather Hazards Across The Country and Close to Home

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to the possibility of severe weather. SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton counties is a click away.

The United States is the third largest nation in the world, coming in behind Russia and Canada based on land mass.

When you have such a large geographical area encompassed in one country, “spring weather” season can have a much different meaning depending on where you are. There are all types of different weather events, which means there will also be different weather threats.

With spring right around the corner, read on for a look at what different parts of the country can expect, weather-wise.

First, let’s take a look at the Pacific Northwest region. The residents here experience heavy rainfalls during the spring months, causing flooding and water damage. There are areas with high elevations that may be dealing with a different type of wet weather—remnants of snow or ice melting, which cause problems of their own.

Now looking at the Upper Midwest and Northeast regions, these regions basically don’t know the difference between winter and spring! This region experiences winter weather to the fullest, dealing with snowstorms and blizzards all the way until early summer at times.

Then you have people living on the West Coast who don’t even know what winter weather is, as it’s almost non-existent in this area. Rather than blizzards or snow, they are dealing with excessive heat waves. These heat waves can endanger the lives of those living in the area, and they also contribute to wildfire conditions.

When you get to the middle part of the United States, you will notice that from Iowa to Texas they are dealing with dry, windy weather! Things like wildfires, windstorms and derechos are just a few of the weather hazards this area faces during spring. Not to mention an area that is named “Tornado Alley” is in this region as well.

Then you have the Southeast region, where we are located. We see spring as a wonderful time of the year; however, we do experience our fair share of weather hazards. Intense thunderstorms and even tornadoes are common this time of year. And states that border the ocean also have to look out for rip currents and early-season hurricanes.

So, what’s the point here? No matter what “spring weather” looks like in your neck of the woods, there are always weather hazards! That’s why despite of where you live, you will need to be prepared for any kind of weather event.

If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.

SERVPRO's Process for Fire Restoration

4/2/2022 (Permalink)

When your home or business endures fire damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton from start to finish.

After a fire strikes your home or business, you’re left with damage from the fire as well as water saturating everything from the firefighting efforts. None of that would be a surprise to our experts here at SERVPRO, as we have the specialized fire restoration expertise to return your house to its pre-fire state.

Every fire damage situation is unique and necessitates a unique remedy, but the overall procedure remains the same. The following is how we will handle a “normal” fire damage situation.

Initial contact. We are on call 24 hours a day and seven days a week, including all holidays. Disaster doesn’t wait for office hours to strike, and we don’t wait to respond. When you contact us, the restoration procedure starts. Our experts will ask a number of questions about the fire damage so that we can get started immediately with the necessary equipment and resources.

Inspection. To establish the degree of the fire, water, smoke and soot damage, we will thoroughly check and test every room. By doing this, we are able to formulate the proper strategy. Fires can cause the air quality to be unsafe, so it’s important not to re-enter the property until experts have determined it is safe to do so.

Water removal. If there is water damage present as a result of firefighting efforts or sprinkler systems, we will begin the water removal procedure immediately to ensure the bulk of the water is removed. If there is any remaining water, it will be removed using dehumidifiers and fans, and the drying process will begin from there.

Cleaning. SERVPRO removes smoke and soot from ceilings, walls and other surfaces using highly specialized state-of-the-art equipment and processes. We’ll clean up all of the fire-damaged items and areas that can be cleaned and repaired. We will also work to return your possessions to their pre-fire state by applying a number of cleaning processes. We can clean and restore electronics, documents, upholstery and more. We also specialize in industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment to eliminate odors.

Restoration. If during the cleaning process we determine that certain areas of your property cannot be cleaned, we also provide comprehensive restoration and rebuilding services. Restoration and rebuilding efforts include everything from modest repairs like drywall replacement, painting or carpet installation to substantial repairs like the complete rebuilding of different areas or rooms in your home or property.

When your home or business endures fire damage, you can trust that SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties will be ready to be a helping hand and will get your home restored quickly and thoroughly to its pre-fire condition.

Tornadoes 101

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

Spring storms can cause major damage to your property. If you experience any damage reach out to SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties.

Georgia is prone to severe weather of all types but is particularly prone to thunderstorms and tornadoes. All of Georgia is prone to tornadoes throughout the whole year, but they are most likely to occur from March through May and peaking in April.

When there is severe weather, be sure to keep a close eye on how the weather changes and know how to identify tornadoes. Tornadoes are often accompanied by thunderstorms and can develop quickly, so it’s important to have dependable ways to get updates about storms by turning on your radio or TV, or by having notifications on your phone for weather alerts.

A tornado watch means that there hasn’t been a tornado sighting yet, but the weather is favorable for them to happen.

Once a tornado watch is issued, it’s important to stay notified through the tornado warning system in your area, stay tuned to local radio stations or an NOAA radio or have notifications on your mobile device for weather updates.

Most tornado-prone areas have an outdoor siren system. Know how to distinguish between the siren’s warnings for a tornado watch and a tornado warning.

A tornado warning is sent out as soon as a tornado has been spotted or shown on the weather radar. You should seek shelter as soon as a tornado is on the way.

Some tornadoes come quickly and without warning, so it is important to know what to look for. Signs that a tornado may be approaching include:

• A rotating funnel-shaped cloud
• Dark or green-colored sky
• Large, dark, low-lying cloud
• Hail
• Loud roar that can be compared to a train

If a tornado is heading your direction, it’s important to take shelter immediately in the lowest indoor area of whatever building you are in, away from windows. The best places to go are basements and cellars, but hallways or other windowless, centrally located areas are good, too.

If you are outdoors, find a place to take shelter, but if that is not possible, find a ditch and lay face down, covering the back of your head and neck with your hands.

Tornadoes and other severe storms can cause serious damage to your property. If your property is damaged by a storm in any way, SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties has you covered. We are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week so we can begin the restoration process immediately.

Keeping Track of Fire Safety at Your Business

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

If you are dealing with the aftermath of a fire at your business, you can depend on SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton counties.

For business owners, there are few things more important for the safety of you and your staff than ensuring you have the right fire protections in place. Fires can be absolutely devastating for businesses, with over half never being able to recover after the damage—but fortunately, there are plenty of ways to decrease the likelihood that you will ever experience a fire at all.

All businesses are subjected to certain fire codes set forth by the National Fire Protection Association, which provide a great guideline for making sure you are being as safe as possible. In addition to adhering to fire codes when you are first starting out, it is also important to make sure you are regularly auditing your fire safety efforts to be sure nothing slips through the cracks. Below, we have listed out some helpful tips for doing just that.

Keeping Track of Your Fire Prevention Efforts in the Workplace

Make sure you have enough (working) fire extinguishers. It is required that all commercial spaces have fire extinguishers on the premises, though how many and where they are located will vary depending on your specific situation. That being said, it is important to check your fire extinguishers regularly—while they do have a long shelf life, there will be an indicator on each one that will let you know if it is time to be replaced.

Check or install commercial sprinkler systems. While not every business is required to have a sprinkler system, they can be a great investment for any commercial space. Sprinkler systems are extremely effective at stopping fires quickly, so even if your business is not technically required by codes to have them, it might be worth considering having a sprinkler of some sort put into place.

Be sure you are reviewing fire safety with your staff. Fire safety efforts are great, but if your staff is ill-prepared for a fire, they can be all for naught. Make sure you are regularly going over fire routes, fire exits, evacuation protocols and fire extinguisher use with your staff. That way, everyone will know exactly how to take action in the event that a fire begins, which can eliminate confusion in a panicking situation.

If you are dealing with the aftermath of a fire at your business, you can depend on us. Contact us today to learn more about our fire restoration services.

Protect Your Business With a Water Damage Prevention Plan

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton is the best cleanup and recovery team in the industry. Contact us for any restoration needs.

Water damage events like floods, leaks and burst plumbing can cause serious damage and create serious headaches for your business—from ruined documents to moldy walls and carpet, there’s a wide range of problems a surprise water situation can cause. But surprisingly few business owners have an actual plan to prevent water damage, even though it can save multiplied thousands in business interruption and other costs.

Many if not most workplaces have a fire plan, but statistically speaking, you’re more likely to have to deal with water damage than a destructive fire, so it’s definitely in your interest to plan ahead and do everything you can to protect your business assets and teams from the damage a water event could cause.

What Should Your Water Damage Prevention Plan Look Like?

Every business is different, and every location and context varies so there’s not a be-all-end-all solution that fits every workplace. It’s vital to understand the needs of your particular business, the extreme weather possibilities in the north Georgia area and even seasonal changes that could increase water damage risks.

But there are a few things that should be included in any water damage prevention plan, including:

• Routine exams and insurance inspections, which can monitor present water risks and leaks and make recommendations about what may be needed going forward with regard to keeping your likelihood of an event low.
• A task force of leaders who have been prepped, trained and equipped with knowledge and tools like water intrusion response carts.
• Expert knowledge of your water shutoff locations and workings, and whether your shutoff involves one main valve or multiple shutoff zones. Make sure teams know who is authorized to enact main water shutoff in the event of a leak emergency.
• Upkeep of service company contracts and authorizations—in other words, make sure you’ve connected with SERVPRO for your free Emergency READY Profile.
• Installation of modern wireless leak detection equipment, which can alert you at the first signs of a problem.

You can’t prevent everything, but being prepared can minimize your water damage and business disruptions. If water damage becomes an issue for your business, contact SERVPRO and we’ll be there right away to help.

Why You Should Trust SERVPRO with Your Fire Damage Recovery

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties is your local fire restoration expert. No job is too big for our team of experts.

Dealing with a fire is one of the most taxing things a homeowner could possibly imagine.

Fire causes all kinds of damage in your home, and recovering from a home fire encompasses dealing with physical, financial, emotional and mental recovery.

While SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton can’t help with all these areas, we can be your main source of property recovery and restoration. And we can get your home taken care of quickly, which can in turn aid in your emotional recovery as well.

Here’s why you know you can feel good about entrusting your fire recovery to us.

We’re Established.

We’ve been doing this a very long time. SERVPRO was established the same year Thurgood Marshall was appointed to the Supreme Court, if that gives you any idea.

That means we’ve got over 50 years’ experience helping families and homeowners deal with the effects of fire, and we’ll use all those years of innovation and experience to give you the most complete recovery possible.

We’re Skilled.

SERVPRO of Fulton/S. Fulton employs a team of experts, trained and equipped to handle anything fire may have done to your home. From reversing the effects of smoke damage to full-blown rebuilding efforts, we have the tools and work ethic to get it done.

We’re always up to date on the latest technologies, innovations and certifications, which multiplies our capacity for tackling even the toughest recovery projects.

We’re Very Fast.

When you click this link or call 770-716-3595 you’re getting connected with a local team who can be onsite right away to get started.

You don’t have to wait for a team from somewhere else to get to you, we’re right here in Fayette and South Fulton counties which means when you need us, we’re the quickest option for your recovery. And we’re on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your emergency call.

When fire strikes at home, the choice is clear: SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton is the name you can trust with your recovery and restoration.

If fire or other disasters do damage to your home, we’re here to make things right again. Contact us today to get fast, local recovery started on your property right away.

Areas we Inspect After Storm Damage

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/South Fulton Counties will help you with the whole restoration process after a storm. Call us today.

You never know when you might suffer property damage due to bad rain, storm damage, wind or debris. In the wake of severe weather, you’ll want to contact SERVPRO to inspect, document and restore any damages to your business for you.

There is a lot you can do to mitigate storm damage, but it’s never completely preventable. Storms can be extremely costly to businesses.

In fact, experts predict that storm and flood damage could cost businesses over $13 billion in 2022.

It’s not always easy for the untrained eye to spot damage after a storm, and damage that goes unnoticed can grow and become even more costly and destructive. When you call SERVPRO to inspect the damage, here are just a few of the main areas we would look for when inspecting your property:

The Roof

Roof damage is one of the most often-occurring kinds of storm-related property damage. We will inspect the roof for loose, curled, missing or cracked shingles.

Additionally, dark patches on asphalt shingles may indicate water damage. Dents or weakened areas on the shingles are indicators of hail storm damage.

We will check for water damage indoors that has sneaked through a damaged roof. Water stains or leaks running down the wall, through a skylight or pooling in the center of the ceiling are further indications that the roof has a leak.

However, not all indications of water damage are obvious. The wisest course of action is to hire an expert to evaluate your house and search for indicators of a leaking roof.

The Exterior

Following a severe storm, you’re likely to find debris scattered around the exterior of your property. These pieces of debris may strike your property, cars or other structures, such as barns or machinery.

We will inspect the whole exterior of your property for loose or broken siding, doors, windows and gutters, among other things. Oftentimes, the exterior can be a significant source of unwanted water leakage that can cause interior water damage and flooding during a storm.

Dents or bends in gutters are often the result of hail, wind and/or debris damage. It is critical to employ an expert to evaluate, record and repair any possible damages precisely and safely.

Windows and Doors

Windows may potentially sustain damage during a severe storm, especially one with heavy winds. Our technicians will inspect the glass for broken panes, shattered glass, chips, scratches and fractures. Additionally, we will search for indicators of damaged seals that allow water to enter through windows and doors.

SERVPRO of Fayette/South Fulton Counties will help you with the whole restoration process after a disaster, from damage assessment through restoration and rebuilding. Do not hesitate to contact our professionals to get your storm damage emergency repaired immediately and properly.

The 2 Things Your Business Needs in a Disaster

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

??Let SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton guide you toward preparedness, and get the best cleanup and recovery team in the industry.

You spend a lot of time getting your business ready—ready for launch, ready for your customers, ready for holiday shopping, for the new product unveiling, the list goes on. But how much thought have you put into getting your business ready to deal with a disaster?

All too often business are completely taken aback and derailed after a major disaster event disrupts their routine. In fact, 40–50% of small businesses never reopen after being disrupted by a natural disaster. For businesses whose margins can be razor-thin, it’s devastating to have to close for days, even weeks at a time.

When disaster strikes, you need two things in place.

A Business Interruption Plan

You need to know if, how and where you can continue doing business if your main location is temporarily disabled or unavailable.

Take time to develop a communications plan to reroute phone calls, update your website and share messaging in other ways. Establish backup vendor relationships and alternate-site workspaces, and practice the plan in case the day you need it should ever arrive.

A SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile

A disaster you’re prepared for has less of a chance of impacting you to a crippling degree. That’s why it’s so important to have a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile.

When we help you assess your risk and create a no-cost plan, you can have the peace of mind knowing a set of procedures can automatically spring to action should a disaster come.

Your SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile will include risk assessment, a compilation of critical emergency information, protocols and chain-of-command communications for emergency services, and crucial information for you and your teams. It will also enable SERVPRO get to work immediately on recovering your business and restoring your facilities so you can get back to work in your home base.

You can’t prevent natural disasters, but you can prepare for them. With a little planning, you can keep your business on track even in an evacuation or crisis.

Let your local SERVPRO guide you toward preparedness, and get the best cleanup and recovery team in the industry on your side when you need us most. Contact us today to get your READY Profile started.

Reduce the Chance of Commercial Storm Damage

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

If storm damage ever causes a mess at your business, call the pros at SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton.

Without warning, high-velocity winds from severe weather can damage your business. No storm’s timing or severity can be fully predicted.

Tornadoes are a common occurrence here in Georgia. Tornado winds can reach up to 300 mph in the most powerful tornadoes. Wind speeds of this magnitude can lift vehicles into the air, tear houses and businesses apart and turn shattered glass and other debris into dangerous projectiles.

It might feel like there’s nothing that can be done to prevent the full severity of storm damage, but a few simple precautions can be taken to help reduce the chance of property damage and save you money on repairs and missed productivity.

The Roof

It is critical to ensure your roof can hold up against storm damage. Storms may cause shingles to fly off or be broken by hail and debris.

To ensure that your business’ roof is protected against wind damage, get it assessed for a variety of factors, including the following:

• Shingles have a high wind and impact resistance rating
• Shingles are snugly secured and fitted together
• The roof sheathing is set firmly in place
• The connection between the roof and the walls is sufficiently secure to prevent the roof from being lifted off by high winds and updrafts
• HVAC equipment, skylight and pipelines are securely fastened and will not blow away

Exterior Walls and Doors

Different types of exteriors are more or less prone to damage from storms than others. In fact, steel siding is known as one of the most durable siding options available, as it can withstand harsh storms and damaging winds.

Some commercial spaces can be primarily glass, brick or concrete exteriors, which all have different levels of tolerance to storm damage. To make sure your building’s exterior is protected from wind damage, check the following:

• The structure is well-sealed to prevent wind from entering gaps and crevices and damaging the interior of your business
• Siding and windows are attached securely
• All entry doors are triple-hinged and protected with a deadbolt lock
• Overhead doors are well-reinforced and capable of withstanding heavy winds

Outdoor Areas

Many commercial properties have exterior spaces, from walkways to playgrounds. Perhaps you have outdoor benches, tables and chairs or potted plants.

Check the following to ensure that the areas around your property are protected against damaging winds and storms:

• Storage sheds and structures are securely anchored
• Everything you keep outdoors (equipment, inventory and supplies) is either secured or readily moved inside
• Dumpsters, outdoor lighting fixtures and fences are secured
• Large bushes and trees in close proximity to your structure are healthy and pruned
• Outdoor advertising or signage are secured

You’ve worked hard to get your business to where it is today. If storm damage ever causes a mess at your business, call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton to handle any and all storm disaster cleanup and restoration.

Can Lightning Cause Serious Property Damage

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Lightning can cause serious property damage. If you need help repairing your home after lightning damage, contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton today.

Though most rain fronts that pass through our area are no major event, severe weather is something that is entirely different. Severe weather can strike nearly any time of year if conditions are right, and with it, bring heavy rains, high winds, lightning strikes, hail and more—all of which can be rather dangerous.

Many of us are cognizant of the injuries and fatalities that lightning strikes in particular can cause. Around the world, they are responsible for 2,000 deaths each year and many more injuries. However, did you know that lightning can cause serious property damage, too? Below, we will be taking a look at why lightning strikes where it does and the types of damage to be aware of.

Why Does Lightning Strike Where it Does?

The majority of lightning strikes that occur during any given thunderstorm will be from one cloud to another as the electrical charge is transferred from area to area in a storm. However, with all this electricity in the air, lightning can also begin to target the ground, as objects such as buildings, trees and bushes send up sparks to meet it. While it is true that taller objects are more likely to be struck by lightning, it is not a guarantee—lightning will strike anywhere there is a charge, whether it be the ground, a tree or a home.

How Does Lightning Cause Damage?

When lightning strikes a building, it can cause serious property damage as a result. The main ways this can happen are:

* Damage due to fire where lightning strikes. When lightning strikes, it is incredibly hot—and therefore, this heat will be transferred to the impacted target. In many cases, this will cause immediate combustion at the site of the strike.

* Damage due to electrical fires. In addition to the threat that lightning can cause an initial fire where it strikes, it can also cause damage due to electrical fires. Because lightning carries an electric charge, it will travel through a building’s wires once it makes contact—this can cause damage to those wires and lead to an electrical fire, either immediately or later on.

* Water damage due to impact. Even if it does not start a fire, lightning will leave a hole where it strikes a home, which can lead to water damage if it is raining.

*If you have damage to your home, due to lightning or other storm-related causes, we are the team to call. We are here 24/7 to help—get in touch today.*

How Does Water Damage Lead to Mold?

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

If mold invades your home, call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton today!

Water damage is something that no homeowner ever wants to experience, but unfortunately, it is a rather common occurrence. Between hidden leaks that can pop up in your plumbing system, water seepage in crawl spaces or surprise roofing issues, there are lots of ways that water damage can pop up in a home.

While water damage is an inconvenience, it can lead to an even more pressing concern: mold growth. Mold growth thrives in damp places, so any time water works its way into an area it should not be in, there is a high chance that mold will find its way there as well. Below, we will look at why mold and water damage are so closely related so you can be on the lookout for any signs of growth.

Why Water Damage Often Leads to Mold

**Mold loves humidity.** The nature of water damage can vary, but in incidents where there is flooding or general dampness in an affected area, the humidity levels can get rather high. Basements, laundry rooms and bathrooms can all turn into very humid areas, which can create the ideal environment for mold to take hold. Ideally, the humidity in an area should stay below

50% at all times in order to discourage mold growth.

**Mold spores need moisture to grow.** Many people are surprised to learn that mold spores are everywhere—in nature, mold aids with the decomposition of organic material, and its spores spread via the air. Therefore, mold spores are always floating around looking for an ideal place to land, which is how they wind up in homes (often after hitching a ride on clothes, shoes or pets). However, mold spores require moisture to grow, so while they may work their way into homes, if they cannot find an area with moisture that they can grow, they will not be able to

reproduce.

**Mold grows well in contaminated waters.** Oftentimes, water damage is caused by water that is not necessarily clean, such as rainwater or floodwater. Mold can grow especially well in these types of waters because of all the bacteria that is already present, making water damage of this type especially susceptible to mold growth.

*If you are curious about how mold remediation works, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our remediation services or to report mold damages.*

Let’s Prepare Your Emergency Ready Plan Together

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

If the day comes where your business is hit with disaster or emergency, you can rest assured SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton will be there to help.

Being a business owner can seem easy—the idea of getting to pick your hours is ideal! But the reality is, you’re always on call, whether you are there or not, and you are responsible for things like employee relations, payables and safety!

Disasters or accidents can disrupt your business in only a matter of minutes. It’s actually scary to see that FEMA states 40% of small businesses will not reopen after a natural disaster, and a quarter of those that do reopen are forced to close their doors within a year.

That’s why it’s imperative to have a safety plan in place for your business. Three-quarters of all small businesses don’t have a plan in place, and now is the perfect time to make the change. We are here and ready to help you become better prepared.

We are always ready and proud to serve our local communities such as Roberta, Fort Valley, Byron and Zenith, along with so many others. Together we will work to get your Emergency Ready Plan started. Being locally owned and operated means we are all neighbors, and we will help our neighbors through the good and bad times.

When we work together, our goal is to help minimize downtime within your company, and help everyone understand what to do. We will carefully review and analyze your business needs to determine what you might need in the face of a disaster. From there, we’ll detail exactly what to do, including alternative locations to work from and data backup, so that you can react with confidence and not chaos.

Business owners have to worry about enough, and disaster planning is one thing that we can help take off your plate. Contact your local SERVPRO experts to help you prepare your Emergency Ready Plan. You can trust us to protect your business and employees!

When your business is ready to prioritize planning and safety to prevent extended downtime, contact SERVPRO to get the Emergency Ready Plan underway from the folks who know all there is to know about disaster and recovery.

How Can High Winds Cause Damage During a Storm

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

If your home has been damaged due to high winds, call SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton 24 hours a day. ??

When it comes to severe weather, there are a lot of ways it can cause harm to an impacted area. More than 75% of deaths pertaining to natural hazards are a result of severe weather, and the property damages caused by storms can be far-reaching and severe. When most people consider severe weather hazards, heavy rains and lightning strikes are probably the first things that come to mind—but unfortunately, straight-line winds can also be significantly damaging to property and people.

Damaging straight-line winds are anything over 50–60 miles per hour, but gusts can reach up to 100 miles per hour if conditions are favorable. When thunderstorms are over an area, they will often cause downdrafts of wind that impact the ground below in several unfavorable ways, which we will look at below.

How Do High Winds Lead to Storm Damage?

**They can rip limbs from trees.** While trees grow to have a certain amount of flex to them in order to withstand the threat of high winds, occasionally, branches will still be ripped from the tree. This is especially true of branches that grow at an odd angle or are less than healthy, which is why trimming trees regularly is so important. When limbs are ripped from trees, they can become high-speed projectiles, crashing into any object or home that ends up in their path.

**They can topple mobile homes.** Because straight-line winds can reach up to 100 miles per hour, they can easily generate an extremely strong force—and in many cases, this can be enough to topple mobile homes or trailers. Even anchored mobile homes can be at risk if winds are strong enough, which puts the people who seek shelter in these homes at serious risk.

**They can make homes more susceptible to water damage.** High winds and water damage often go hand in hand, because winds can cause damage to homes that make them more susceptible to water damage. Projectiles carried on the wind can shatter windows, which will then let in rain. Additionally, high winds can damage roofing shingles, flashing and other exterior elements of the home designed to keep moisture out, resulting in hidden leaks that can be costly.

*If you have storm damage to your home, you can count on our team to help. Get in touch today to learn more about our restoration processes—we’re here 24/7 to help.*

What Conditions Are Right for Mold to Grow?

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can cause health effects. Call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton if you have mold in your home.

Mold growth is a complicated issue for homeowners to have to face. While mold can only grow if the conditions are right, there are many instances where this is the case—and once mold establishes itself, it is extremely difficult to fully get rid of it without professional help with the remediation process.

Fortunately, the conditions where mold is likely to grow can be abated in most instances. Because prevention is so important when it comes to mold management, today we will be looking at the conditions that are ideal for mold to grow and how they can be prevented.

The Conditions That Mold is Likely to Grow In

**Warm, humid conditions.** Mold requires moisture to grow, but it does not always have to be standing moisture that allows it to start its process. Humid areas, such as bathrooms, basements and laundry rooms, are prime candidates for mold growth in the home. When the air in an area becomes saturated with humidity, it can lead to high moisture throughout the room which can allow mold to become established.

**Poorly ventilated areas.** Mold spores are spread via the air, so when areas are poorly ventilated, it is much easier for mold to settle in one spot and begin to reproduce. This is doubly concerning as areas with poor air circulation are also typically areas with high humidity, which can create an even more ideal environment for mold spores to land in. Installing fans or other types of air flow system in areas without much ventilation is a great way to prevent mold.

**Any area with untreated moisture damage.** Mold will often establish itself around water damage, as it thrives on moisture. Any area that has a buildup of moisture is ripe for mold growth, which means hidden leaks are often first identified by the signs of mold around the area. This is why it is so important to have water damage abated quickly and professionally when it occurs, because the longer it is left untreated (or if it is untreated properly), the worse a mold problem is able to become.

*If you are in need of mold remediation or would like to learn more, we would love to help. Contact us today to learn more about our mold remediation services!*

What Types of Places Are Likely to Attract Mold Growth?

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

If mold invades your home, call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton to evict it!

Mold growth can be a frightening thing for homeowners to deal with. It is an insidious and stubborn problem that can cause significant damages if not treated quickly and professionally by mold remediation experts—but how do you know if you are at risk of experiencing mold growth?

One of the only positives about mold is the extremely specific conditions that it needs to grow. Mold is only likely to be found in a few places where the environment is right for it to be able to take hold.

Below, we will be taking a look at what these places are so homeowners know exactly where to keep their eye out for these harmful spores. Preventing mold and treating it quickly when it does arise is the best way to stop the issue from getting out of hand.
The Places Where Mold Is Likely to Grow

**In bathrooms and laundry rooms.** Mold thrives in areas with high moisture content, so anywhere that experiences regular and high humidity—such as bathrooms and laundry rooms—is likely to be a haven for mold. Establishing consistent airflow and mitigating the humidity in these areas can go a long way in preventing mold from ever growing in these places.

**In basements and crawl spaces.** Basements and crawl spaces are often popular spots for mold to be discovered because of how ideal their conditions are. Not only is humidity typically high in these areas, but they are also often dark and may even experience water damage from ground seepage if they are not properly weatherproofed. Dank odors and condensation in these areas are often a sure sign that mold is likely to take hold.

**In areas that have experienced water damage.** Water damage is a serious issue for several reasons, including the fact that it is likely to give rise to mold growth if it is not treated properly. Whether the water damage is from a hidden leak in the plumbing system or a flooding issue, it is important that it be addressed quickly by water restoration professionals to completely remove the moisture and ensure that mold is not likely to become a lurking threat.

*If you are in need of mold remediation, water damage restoration or would simply like to learn more, we are here 24/7 to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services.*

The Dangers That Occur When Severe Weather Strikes

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged from flash floods, lightning, or hail call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton 24 hours a day!

More than simply being an inconvenience, severe weather can cause serious damage in a variety of ways. In addition to being dangerous enough to cause personal injury to anyone who has not sought out adequate shelter, severe weather can also cause property damage to any homes or businesses in the line of the storm.

While severe weather can often move through an area without causing much damage, any time it is a possibility, it is wise to be vigilant so you know when to seek safe shelter to protect your family. Below, we will be taking a look at the types of hazards that happen during severe weather so you can be better prepared for their occurrence.

The Types of Hazards That Occur During Severe Weather

**Flash flooding threats.** Flash flooding is a serious problem, in part because it is quite unpredictable—hence the term “flash.” Flash flooding is more common in low-lying areas, but it can happen anywhere that receives a heavy amount of rainfall in a short period of time. Rapidly rising creeks and ponds are often sources of flash flooding, but even overwhelmed storm drains can become backed-up and impact an area.

**Fire hazards from lightning strikes.** Lightning strikes can occur any time there is a thunderstorm, and they are responsible for around 2,000 deaths per year throughout the world. In addition to being dangerous for anyone caught outside, lightning strikes can also introduce serious fire risks when they strike homes. Lightning can start a fire when it hits a home, due to the intense amount of heat it transfers, but it can also cause electrical fires as it travels through (and damages) a home’s wires on its way to seeking grounding.

**Damage due to high winds and hail.** Severe weather is often accompanied by high, straight-line winds up to 100 miles per hour—which as you can imagine, can cause serious damage. High winds can break off tree branches and turn them into projectiles, which can shatter windows, damage roofs and make homes susceptible to water damage as a result of being vulnerable to heavy rains.

*If severe weather strikes your home, you can depend on us to help. We have a team of storm restoration experts on hand 24/7—contact us today to learn more.*

Whatever the Disaster, We’re Here to Help Your Business

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what causes the damage, we can handle it. SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton are your local restoration experts.

Even on a normal day, it’s difficult to operate a business. With so many competing demands for your time and attention, it’s easy to see why managing or owning a business might be a little stressful.

Consequently, if something were to interrupt business like damage from a natural disaster, you might need some experts to step in and lend a hand.

SERVPRO is the industry leader when it comes to commercial disaster cleaning, recovery and restoration. Our goal is to help you get back on your feet after a crisis by handling the cleanup and restoration process so you can continue to focus on what you need to do to keep your business going.

No matter what causes the damage, we can handle it:

Smoke and fire damage. The NFPA estimates that U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 3,340 fires in office properties per year that cost an annual average of over $110 million in property damage. We can take care of everything from the demolition and reconstruction of your building to the elimination of smoke odors.

Water damage. Damage caused by water seeping inside the building from any number of things, such as a storm, leaky roof, broken pipes, an overflowing water heater and other unanticipated problems, can cause issues from carpets getting saturated to drywall getting destroyed and even structural integrity potentially becoming compromised. No matter what happens, we’ll get you back up and running quickly and thoroughly.

Weather-related disaster damage. Natural disasters affect one out of every three businesses, and many of them are not prepared. One way to be prepared is to know what to do between disaster and the completion of your restoration. We can set your business up with a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan, which will help you know exactly what to do if disaster should strike.

Regardless of the nature or severity of your needs, we can assist you in getting back to business as quickly as possible.

Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton when you’re ready to have the best in disaster cleaning and recovery on your side. We’re here to assist you in preparing for or recovering from a catastrophe.

Have a Strong Commercial Fire Safety System

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

A fire can happen to any business. If your workplace experiences any damage from fire, contact SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton counties.

Fires can cause serious damage and inconvenience to businesses. Ensuring that you are prepared for a fire before it happens will protect your employees and your facility.

With these four critical components, you can construct a solid fire safety system that will help curb a fire if one happens to spark up at your workplace.

Smoke and Fire Alarms

When it comes to fire safety in the workplace, the first and most important line of defense is a working fire and smoke alarm system. Everyone is alerted when the fire alarm goes off, indicating that there is a possible threat and that an emergency evacuation is required.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are really only helpful for small fires, but knowing how to use one could prevent extreme damage to your facility. When using fire extinguishers, you and your employees should use OSHA’s “PASS” system:

P—Pull the pin on the extinguisher

A—Aim at the base of the fire

S—Squeeze the handle

S—Sweep at the fire, and move side to side

Sprinkler System

The usage of a sprinkler system is important as well. Sprinkler systems can be programmed to activate when the temperature reaches a specific level and can douse even very large flames.

You’ll likely need a professional inspector to provide regular inspections to ensure sprinkler and standpipe systems are properly maintained and running. As with any emergency equipment that is not used every day, ensuring it is in working condition regularly is essential.

Emergency Lighting and Signage

Conditions may be hectic and confusing during a fire. The building’s electrical power also often goes out. It might be difficult to see or navigate the building due to power outage, sprinklers going off, as well as smoke in the air.

People are more likely to be able to see well enough to leave the building and find safety if the facility is equipped with backup emergency lights that turn on automatically, along with lighted exit signs.

A fire can happen to any business. If your workplace happens to be affected, SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton counties has expert fire restoration professionals who can assist you immediately.

The 2 Most Common Causes of Commercial Water Damage

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage doesn’t wait for a convenient time to cause problems. SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton is ready 24 hours a day.

When you’re running a business, it’s easy to let a few things slip your mind. Perhaps checking your facility for water damage is one of those tasks. Water damage can sneak in quietly, but can pack a big punch if it isn’t found and treated quickly.

Water damage can cause expensive losses for business. Thankfully, it’s not impossible to find and address water damage early on, before it gets to be a major issue.

There are a lot of ways water can creep into your facility, but these two are the most common:

Leaks in the plumbing system. A pipe breaks, an appliance hose ruptures or if your facility has a fire, the suppression sprinkler system turns on and drenches your facility in water.

Pipes may also unexpectedly leak during freezing conditions due to frozen water. Burst pipes are sometimes difficult to detect since they are not as visible from the surface and may not always result in obvious puddles of standing water.

Water stains near piping areas or the development of musty odors are evidence of plumbing leaks. You might notice the stains on the ceiling, running down the walls or on your floors.

Roof leaks. Leaky roofs are often the result of severe rainfall combined with insufficient or incorrect roof drainage. Excessive rainfall, such as that seen during natural disasters, may often result in widespread damage when it leaks inside.

This sort of damage has the potential to develop further if it goes unnoticed with fewer people in the facility, like overnight or on a weekend. Roof damage may also result in secondary damage such as unsightly mold development, if left unattended for an extended period of time.

Commercial property insurance typically provides coverage for unforeseen pipe bursts, malfunctioning appliances and sprinkler system water damage caused by a property fire. Insurance also often includes coverage for damage to major equipment, which is crucial in the event of roof water leaks.

Water damage doesn’t wait for convenient times to cause problems, and we don’t wait for convenient times to respond. If water damage creeps up at your commercial property, SERVPRO is ready 24 hours a day and seven days a week to help.

SERVPRO Gives You a Seamless Recovery Process

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

We’ve got the tools and technology to handle any job. Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton counties to learn more.

Doesn’t a cake sound delicious? If it didn’t before the beginning of that sentence, it probably does now.

So let’s bake one from scratch. Ready? First, we’ll go to the local poultry farmer to get some eggs, then the dairy farm for milk. Then we’ll head over to the mill for flour (unless you want to mill it at home for authenticity, and…sugar from the cane fields, maybe?

Yeah, you could go to those extreme lengths to get all your ingredients. But it’s the 21st century, and at this point most of us are looking to find one place we can go to get all the things we need for a cake, or whatever other confectionary delight you may have in mind.

Most of our shopping isn’t modular anymore, because part of what makes a great business great is that it offers a level of convenience that makes it easy to use and often decreases the buyer’s cost.

One of the many great things about being your local SERVPRO is that we can provide you with a single place to take care of every element of restoration after a disaster. Whether the nature of your damage is from water, fire, natural disaster or anything in between, we can get your home fully back to tip-top shape from beginning to end.

Need carpet dried and cleaned? We’ve got you. Drywall burned up in a fire? We can replace it, finish it, and even paint it. (You know we started as a painting business, right?)

Everything from reframing and construction to the tiniest finishing touches—we can make it happen, and you don’t have to worry about the process dragging on because multiple companies and sets of contractors have to wait on each other, communicate poorly, undo, redo and haggle with your insurance agent. From step one to done, SERVPRO has it under control.

We’ll even talk to your insurance company to simplify that process, too.

So when a heavy storm rips through the house, an unexpected flood fills your basement with water, or an electrical fire eats up your hallway, don’t call five companies—call one.

Did you hear the oven ding? Cake’s ready.

For an A to Z cleanup, recovery and restoration solution, you don’t have to worry. Your local SERVPRO has all the tools and teams necessary to finish your project, no matter how complex.

SERVPRO Has the Expertise to Handle Your Cleanup and Recovery

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton has your back.

Have you heard of the 10,000 Hour Rule? It’s an idea popularized by author Malcom Gladwell that says, essentially, it takes 10,000 hours to master one’s craft and become an expert.

Noted achievers like Bill Gates in the tech world and Alex Rodriguez in sports and entrepreneurship subscribe to the idea that it takes concerted effort over a long period to be able to truly call yourself one of the best in a given field.

If the 10,000 hour rule holds true, then you can only imagine the level of expertise you can expect when you call your local SERVPRO to help you after a disaster in your home or business. Think about it—1,800 SERVPRO teams nationwide, doing business over the span of a half-century? We tried to do the actual math, but it just made us go cross-eyed.

The point is that when you call SERVPRO, you can be absolutely certain that you’re calling a reputable team of true experts, highly trained and heavily equipped for any home recovery need you may have.

Every SERVPRO franchise owner goes through complete training at the SERVPRO National Training Center, and every team member sits under them to extend that knowledge. We actually have a training house that we flood, set on fire and otherwise destroy, so that our teams can learn firsthand the latest techniques for restoring and repairing damaged homes, furnishings and more.

Expertise matters. And in an age where anyone can get on social media and crown themselves an expert, having a proven track record is what can set one service apart—and nobody has the track record of SERVPRO. For more than 50 years, we’ve satisfied literal millions of home and business owners with quality service and outstanding care.

When you call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties, you can rest assured you’re getting in touch with teams that know what they’re doing because they’ve been doing it for a lot of people, for a very long time. We’ve put in our 10,000 hours as a company many times over.

When you need thorough, expert home cleaning or restoration, you know who to trust. Contact SERVPRO when disaster strikes, and let the pros handle it.

Trust SERVPRO for Your Remodel

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

When you call SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton counties, rest assured you’re getting in touch with the best restoration team in the business.

We talk a lot around here about recovery, damage from storms and fires, that sort of thing—and we should. A great deal of what we do revolves around helping families and business owners who are struck by sudden situations and find themselves in need of a trustworthy service company to help them restore their damaged homes and business.

That’s a role we’re proud to fill for millions of customers nationwide, and it’s gained us the industry-leader reputation we’re honored to have earned.

But it doesn’t take a tornado for you to take advantage of SERVPRO’s expertise.

Our highly trained construction teams can help you beautify, add on or remodel your home for no other reason than it being something you want to do. No disaster required.

Recent studies show that as many as 90% of homeowners plan on remodeling their homes at some point, and almost four out of 10 plan on doing it in the next year. If you’re one of these millions of homeowners, call SERVPRO of Conyers/Covington when you’re ready to make it happen, and you can trust the same expert teams who rebuild countless homes after disasters to give your kitchen, basement or whole home the facelift you’ve always dreamed about.

We cover the whole process, top to bottom—from inspection and gathering estimates, to mitigating any hazards or other difficulties that may hinder or interrupt the process, to full-service rebuilding and construction.

We can even go the extra mile and help you with dust control, contaminant protection and more with our premium services and EPA-registered preventive healthcare solutions.

You’ll love your new remodel, and you’ll love how easy the process is when you can trust one team to get your work done, instead of a rotation of multiple repair crews slowing down the job and struggling to communicate with each other.

You don’t have to wait for a flood, fire or natural disaster to take care of the expert construction services SERVPRO offers. We can help you build, rebuild or remodel your home and get the dream look you’ve always wanted.

If a remodel is in your future, you owe it to yourself to check with SERVPRO and get a quote. Call us today and get a local team of experts invested in your project.

Whatever Your Restoration Need, We’ve Got You Covered

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton counties to get the job done.

If you pass by a home or business that is up in flames, your heart truly goes out to those people. But when you see that green SERVPRO truck pull up, you know they are being well-taken care of.

At SERVPRO, we provide full-service cleaning, restoration and reconstruction services. So we will fix or clean things from top to bottom, and we will do it in a timely and efficient way.

Here’s a breakdown of SERVPRO services you can benefit from:

Water damage recovery. Whether you have encountered a flash flood that made its way into your home or you had a pipe that has busted, you can be certain that we will take care of you. When it comes to water, it doesn’t take much to do damage, and that’s why you should call us.

Fire damage recovery. A fire is reported every 23 seconds here in the United States. Fires, and the things used to put them out, can do a lot of damage, which requires lots of cleanup. That’s why we bring out all the help we can get.

Mold removal. Mold damage can creep up on you without you ever seeing it and can threaten the structure of your home. Once it’s established in your home or business, mold can spread quickly and easily, so call in the pros.

Storm recovery. Storms of any kind can cause damage, and no matter the size of damage it causes, you can count on us to help you restore your home or business.

Commercial needs. If you’re a business owner, have peace of mind in knowing we offer you all the same services we offer homeowners, plus a few extra!

General cleaning. Cleaning can be a headache for some, but for us here at SERVPRO, it’s pretty simple. We will provide your home or business cleaning services, including carpet or curtain cleaning and more.

Specialty cleaning. Sometimes you have cleaning needs that go beyond the basics. If you need specialized services such as document restoration or biohazard cleanup, we’re here to help.

Construction. Sometimes, damage can be severe and restoring your place is out of the question. The good news is you don’t have to find another company to help you—SERVPRO can reconstruct your home or business and get it looking “Like It Never Even Happened.”

Add 24-hour service and an easy insurance process to all this, and the picture becomes clear—when you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO to get the job done.

SERVPRO Gives You a Seamless Recovery Process

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

We’ve got the tools and technology to handle any job. Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton counties to learn more.

Doesn’t a cake sound delicious? If it didn’t before the beginning of that sentence, it probably does now.

So let’s bake one from scratch. Ready? First, we’ll go to the local poultry farmer to get some eggs, then the dairy farm for milk. Then we’ll head over to the mill for flour (unless you want to mill it at home for authenticity, and…sugar from the cane fields, maybe?

Yeah, you could go to those extreme lengths to get all your ingredients. But it’s the 21st century, and at this point most of us are looking to find one place we can go to get all the things we need for a cake, or whatever other confectionary delight you may have in mind.

Most of our shopping isn’t modular anymore, because part of what makes a great business great is that it offers a level of convenience that makes it easy to use and often decreases the buyer’s cost.

One of the many great things about being your local SERVPRO is that we can provide you with a single place to take care of every element of restoration after a disaster. Whether the nature of your damage is from water, fire, natural disaster or anything in between, we can get your home fully back to tip-top shape from beginning to end.

Need carpet dried and cleaned? We’ve got you. Drywall burned up in a fire? We can replace it, finish it, and even paint it. (You know we started as a painting business, right?)

Everything from reframing and construction to the tiniest finishing touches—we can make it happen, and you don’t have to worry about the process dragging on because multiple companies and sets of contractors have to wait on each other, communicate poorly, undo, redo and haggle with your insurance agent. From step one to done, SERVPRO has it under control.

We’ll even talk to your insurance company to simplify that process, too.

So when a heavy storm rips through the house, an unexpected flood fills your basement with water, or an electrical fire eats up your hallway, don’t call five companies—call one.

Did you hear the oven ding? Cake’s ready.

For an A to Z cleanup, recovery and restoration solution, you don’t have to worry. Your local SERVPRO has all the tools and teams necessary to finish your project, no matter how complex.

Why SERVPRO Should Be Your Top Choice for Water Damage Restoration

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/Fulton counties is ready 24 hours a day to respond to your emergency water damage.

Having water damage your home is something that can feel extremely overwhelming. Whether you have a leak, a flood or other type of water-related issue, water damage can be disruptive to your life and your routine. And if you are unsure of how to handle it, it can be more disruptive than you imagine.

No matter where you live, it is important to understand your risk for flooding and other types of water damage—especially because one in 10 properties in the United States are at risk for flooding—so you can plan ahead for it. Water damage can come about suddenly, but having a plan in place for who to call can help you handle it quickly and efficiently.

Why to Choose SERVPRO for Water Restoration at Your Home

**We respond quickly to your call.** Water damage is not something that you want to leave unattended for any length of time. Mold and mildew growth can start quite quickly after water damage, but the faster it is addressed, the less likely this is to be an issue. With our 24/7 emergency line, you can be confident that you can get in touch with us whenever you need us.

**We understand the intricacies of water damage.** Water damage is rarely a simple issue, and oftentimes, it is a rather complex one. Water can seep into many places that are not supposed to be wet, and when these areas are hidden, it is impossible to know the scope of the issue. Because we understand the intricacies of water damage, we monitor impacted areas to find any areas with hidden moisture to make sure any water damage is fully addressed.

**We have a national backup plan.** If there is a widespread issue that causes water damage, such as flooding, resources in the local area can be spread quite thin. We combat this issue by having the backing of our national brand—because there are SERVPRO locations across the nation, we can scale up resources, equipment and technicians as needed, so you can expect the same level of service even when there is an extreme need.

*If you need assistance with water damage in your household, you can count on us to be there for you. Get in touch with us at any time to learn more about our water restoration process.*

A Fire Safety Checklist for Your Household

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/ South Fulton Counties is on standby to help you create your Emergency Ready Plan.

It is important for any household to practice fire safety as a regular part of their routine. House fires can be both devastating and dangerous, and on average, those in the household will have less than three minutes to escape should a fire begin.

Fortunately, by being vigilant about the prevention of house fires, you can reduce the likelihood of you ever having to experience one. While there is no way to completely eradicate your risk, there are plenty of steps you can take to make your home less susceptible to accidental fires breaking out.

A Checklist for Household Fire Safety

Practicing fire safety is a great way to reduce your risk of experiencing a fire at your home. By referencing this simple checklist, you can be sure you are taking necessary precautions to keep your household safe.

**Smoke Alarms**

* Ensure that you have smoke alarms on each level of the home and in every sleeping area.

* Test smoke alarms each month and replace batteries as needed.

* Note the install date for all alarms and replace after 10 years, even if they are still operational.

**Cooking Safety**

* Be sure to never leave the stove or oven on unattended.

* Keep flammable items, such as towels and wooden utensils, three feet from the stove.

* Store a fire extinguisher prominently in the kitchen.

* Understand the difference between grease fires and other types of fires, and know the methods for extinguishing each.

**General Safety**

* Be sure your household has a fire escape plan that you practice at least twice per year.

* Ensure that every area of your home has at least two exits.

* Store any flammable chemicals in accordance with their label recommendations.

* Keep matches, lighters and other flammable objects away from young children.

* Do not leave candles lit if they are unattended.

* Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from candles, space heaters or other sources of heat.

**Electrical Safety**

* Never overload electrical outlets or extension cords.

* Replace any frayed cords or wires immediately.

* Plug appliances and any heat-generating items directly into the wall, not into extension cords.

* If wall outlets ever feel warm to the touch, stop using them immediately and call an electrician.

*If you have damage from a fire, you can count on us to help. We are here 24/7 for restoration—contact us today to learn more about our processes.*

Where to Start on Fire Safety Efforts for the Home

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/ South Fulton Counties is ready 24/7 to help you prepare for emergencies.

If you are hoping to improve your household fire safety, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. House fires are certainly dangerous, but given the multitude of ways they can start, understanding what fire prevention measures to take around the home can seem like it will be a daunting task.

Fortunately, fire safety is actually quite simple! By adding certain habits into your household routines, you can make major strides in reducing your likelihood of a fire and keeping your family safer.

Read on to learn more regarding where to start when improving fire safety in the home.

How to Begin Your Fire Safety Efforts at Home

**Start with your smoke alarms.** If you are new to fire safety efforts, starting with smoke alarms is really the best thing that you can do. Most people will have less than three minutes to escape when a fire begins in the home, but smoke alarms can ensure all members of your household are alerted quickly so they can begin evacuating. Make sure you have smoke alarms installed throughout each level of the home and in every sleeping area, and test them once per month to be sure they are operational and do not need a battery replacement.

**Create an escape plan.** As previously mentioned, being able to escape quickly is so important in the event of a house fire. It is wise to draft a fire escape plan for your home, and practice it with each member of your household at least every six months. Be sure that you are able to execute your plan in around two minutes, and that everyone knows where to meet up once they are safely outside.

**Consider your cooking habits.** Cooking is one of the most common causes of house fires, so evaluating your cooking habits can be a great way to prevent fires from starting. Be careful about flammable objects near the stove and leaving food unattended while cooking. Additionally, make sure that you have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen that is rated to handle cooking and grease-related fires.

*If you have damage to your home from a house fire, we are the team to call. We are here 24/7 to provide you with a rapid response. Get in touch today to learn more.*

So You’ve Got a Sewage Backup

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage backup can be a serious problem, reach out SERVPRO of Fayette/ South Fulton to learn more.

Water damage can be rough stuff in any form. Burst pipes, flooding and appliance issues all create difficult situations in their own right. But a sewage backup can be an entirely other level of both nastiness and danger.

Sewer problems can be the result of civil sewer systems that have aged past their primes, tree roots growing into sewer lines or blockages of a sanitary sewer main. Regardless of the cause, however, one thing is clear (or literally probably not clear at all)—sewer backups introduce toxins into your home, and they leave a difficult cleanup job in their wake.

When you find yourself faced with sewer damage, here are some things you should do immediately upon discovering the damage to ensure your safety and get things under control until your local SERVPRO team arrives.

Evacuate anyone vulnerable from the area. This includes seniors, children, even pets—anyone who may suffer more readily from the toxins sewage can introduce into your home’s atmosphere. Keep them safely away from the backup area until restoration is complete.

Shut off your main water supply and electricity if it’s safe to do so. If you can get to your power panel and water main safely, use them to stop the flow of water and decrease the odds of your water backup causing an electrical fire. Don’t do this if your electrical panel is under water, or if you would have to stand in water to turn it off. If you can’t safely shut off your own power and water, call your utility companies and have them do it.

Open windows in the affected area to encourage ventilation and get some fresh air flowing in.

Document your situation and take lots of photos for your insurance company. Be sure to include any items that have sustained damage, as these will be important for your insurance claim process.

Add a little bleach to standing water, if you can do so safely, so that the chlorine in it can do some disinfecting work and prevent the spread of bacteria. Don’t touch stained or affected areas, and don’t come in contact with what could be very dangerous water.

Don’t forget to call SERVPRO. We’ll be there quickly, get things cleaned and managed thoroughly, and we can work with your insurance company on your behalf.

Regardless of the cause of your sewage problem, SERVPRO has the tools and techniques to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Sewage backup is a serious problem, but we can take care of it and restore your home after the damage. Contact SERVPRO anytime to get the pros on your side.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Your Fire Restoration Needs?

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/Fulton counties is ready 24 hours a day to respond to your emergency. Give us a call today.

A house fire is something no one would like to experience, but unfortunately, they are a more common occurrence than most people realize. Every year, around 358,000 structures will have a fire event in them, causing billions in property damage across the United States.

House fires can lead to significant property damage as well as pose risks for injuries and deaths, so preparing as much as possible is a must for mitigating their impact.

Focusing on fire prevention is the best thing to do to keep your household safe, but it is also important that you have a plan for the aftermath of a fire just in case. Because smoke and soot can permeate rooms in the home that were not even impacted by a fire, it can be quite disruptive to your daily life—which is why we are here to guarantee a rapid response when you call us.

Why to Choose SERVPRO When You Need Home Fire Restoration

**We will get to you quickly.** Experiencing a house fire is a frightening thing, and if you have damage to your home, it is understandable that you will want it taken care of as quickly as possible. That is why we are here for you 24/7, 365 days a year. We always provide a rapid response when you call us, no matter the hour.

**We understand fire damage.** Fire damage is a complex thing. Not only is there the damage from the actual flames, but there is also smoke, soot and often moisture damage to consider. We approach fire damage with this in mind, and have the knowledge to tackle the entire spectrum of fire damage so it is like it never even happened.

**We have expert fire restoration technicians.** Because we always want to provide you with the best restoration service possible, we take our training programs very seriously and ensure that our technicians are well-versed in the world of fire restoration. Between third-party certifications and our own SERVPRO training that our technicians complete, you can be confident that the technicians assigned to your job know exactly what to do.

*If you are in need of fire restoration, let us be the team you call. Get in touch with us at any hour to learn more or to report your fire damage.*

Breaking Down the Fire Tetrahedron

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business has any damage, SERVPRO of Fayette/South Fulton Counties is ready around the clock to help you recover.

First things first, do you know the definition of a tetrahedron? To cut down on time, let us explain…it’s a three-dimensional, triangular shape with four equal sides.

Now that you know the basics of the geometric shape, let’s discuss what a fire tetrahedron is.

Basically, it’s a way of acknowledging that there are four components needed for fire to start—or four “sides” to the equation. If one of the sides is removed, the structure can’t stand and the fire can’t start.

The So-Called 100-Year Flood

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

If flooding or other water damage cause trouble for your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Fayette/ South Fulton Counties.

Flood probability is based on a number of factors, and scientists and engineers use a specific set of criteria to determine the likelihood that rivers may flood in heavy storms. Flooding can happen wherever it rains, and it can cause troubles like 2019’s sudden troubles in Conyers; but there’s a certain term on which much of our flood conversation hinges: the “100-year flood.”

It’s a rather foreboding term, one that definitely makes the listener aware that it’s something to be concerned about. But what exactly is it? Is it a general term, or are there actually 100-year floods we can measure and predict?

First, a 100-year flood is a very real, scientific measurement, as opposed to a general declaration like, say, a gullywasher or deluge. Without getting overly technical, a 100-year flood is, in theory anyway, a flood that statistically should only occur about once every 100 years.

In other words, based on data from nearby rivers, bodies of water, elevation levels and other factors, a 100-year flood is a flood that has a 1% chance of occurring in any given year.

This kind of flood is also known as a 1% Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP) flood.

So, does a 100-year flood only occur every hundred years? Well, yes and no. While the average space between them typically does meet that criteria, that doesn’t preclude the possibility of two 1% floods happening in back-to-back decades, years, or even months.

Flooding is unpredictable, but statistically speaking, the 100-year or 1% designation gives us a baseline for estimating the frequency and severity of a certain kind of flood.

Why does all this matter? Well, for one thing, aside from giving us a sense of how bad a flood was or could be, and how likely it may be to occur again, the 1% AEP flood is the basis for the National Flood Insurance Program, which, among other things, requires homeowners within high-risk flood zones to carry flood insurance.

So you can see why it’s important that we have both accurate flooding data and analysis as well as risk prediction. The accuracy of the portrait and prediction of 100-year floods could impact whether your home sits in a high-risk zone or not.

The 1% analysis also helps us plan things like infrastructure, drainage and building needs for flood plain areas.

The last 100-year flooding in our area came in the form of massive floods in September 2009, which resulted in half a billion dollars in damages, and actually reached the 500-year flood designation in some areas, meaning there was only a 0.2% chance of that flood occurring that year in this area.

Flooding isn’t inevitable, but it’s always a possibility when heavy storms overwhelm bodies of water or drainage systems. If flooding or other water damage cause trouble for your home or business, contact SERVPRO for fast, complete cleanup and recovery.

The Most Common Roof Problems You’re Likely to Encounter

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Roof care is home care. If you find any signs of damage to your property, call SERVPRO of Fayette/ S. Fulton.

One of the sneakiest water damage sources in your home is actually on your home. Your roof regularly takes a beating from weather, sun, wind, rain and more, and it does a great job overall. If we were talking percentages, we’d be looking at Hank-Aaron-meets-Ted-Williams-type numbers.

But roofs are also one of the last places we tend to check for leaks, and thusly, one of the last places we catch leaks before they become a problem.

Make this your year to change all that. Keeping an eye on these problem areas can keep water from sneaking into your home through cracks and gaps in the roof.

Storm damage. Wind, hail and other environmental factors can damage your roof during a storm. No matter the season, your roof takes a pounding from storms, and you should always inspect your roof visually after a major storm, at the very least. If you suspect anything negative may have occurred, play it safe and let a pro examine it.

Falling branches and tree damage. Overhanging branches can crack and fall, but they can also rub away the top layer of your shingles over time as they sway with the wind. Trimming trees and being mindful of their proximity to your roof can help you avoid bad shingles and subsequent leaks.

Flashing. Your roof likely already has holes in it, but they’re the kind you have to have. Chimneys, vent pipes, skylights and even HVAC systems all come through your roof for ventilation. If the flashing is poorly installed, or if it simply wears down over time, it can cause seams in your roof and pull shingles and tiles off their proper alignment. Flashing may also need to be resealed from time to time.

Mold. Those dark streaks and patches on your roof are easy to ignore, but they’re really patches of mold—and that’s never good. There are many reasons to get rid of mold whenever and wherever you see it, but in the case of your roof, that mold can eventually eat away at your roofing material, which can let water in.

Gutters. While technically roof-adjacent, this one certainly needs attention as well. Keeping your gutters free of debris and buildup can stop water from damming up and flowing into your house by getting under your shingles.

Time. The truth is, your roof has a life expectancy, and even within that window it’s likely to develop needs that you can’t see from the ground or as an amateur. An annual roof checkup is recommended in order to keep your roof performing at its peak. A professional can identify problems that are, and some that have not yet come to pass.

Roof care is home care, and leak prevention is the name of the game. If water damage becomes an unexpected part of your home ownership experience, contact SERVPRO to get things cleaned up and restored.

Why SERVPRO Is Your Go-To for Any Restoration Needs

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/ South Fulton counties is ready 24 hours a day to help with any restoration needs.

Needing restoration on your home is something that can feel rather overwhelming, but eventually, it is likely to happen. From damaging severe weather incidents to leaks or kitchen fires, there are many ways that a home can sustain damage, but fortunately, there are comprehensive solutions that can help ease the complications of restoration.

To better prepare your household to deal with damages that need restoration, it is best to think ahead regarding what company you would like to use. That way, when you discover damage, you can make the call immediately to begin the restoration process.

In most cases, it is vital that restoration happens quickly—so below, we have outlined a few reasons why we are here to be your go-to.

Why to Choose SERVPRO for Your Restoration Needs

**We understand that each scenario is different.** While incidents that require restoration are quite common, every scenario is still different. For example, in spite of the fact that house fires impact more than 350,000 families each year, every fire causes damage that varies in its scope. That is why we make sure that we have the expertise to deal with damages of any type, so you can always feel confident when you call on us.

**We provide a response 24 hours a day.** When it comes to damage restoration, it is important to act fast. This is vital not only for helping your household get back to its usual state, but it is also a must to prevent further issues from arising, such as mold and mildew growth after water damage. For this reason, we are here to respond to your call 24/7, 365 days a year.

**We do more than damage restoration.** In addition to simply restoring the damage an incident has caused in your home, we also help with every aspect of the process. From helping you pack things up to dealing with your insurance agent to get the most for your claim, we aim to provide assistance in any way we can throughout the process.

*If you are in need of a go-to partner for residential restoration, you can count on us. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our process or to receive a rapid response to your damage.

Fires on Construction and Renovation Sites

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

If your construction project should be hindered by an unfortunate fire, contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton.

A 2020 report by the National Fire Protection Association gives us insight into the most common fire dangers of unfinished properties. Some of these properties are in the construction phase, and some are undergoing major renovations. The published results are the culmination of a five-year study, looking at fires of this nature from 2013–2017.

These details serve to encourage adoption and adherence to NFPA standards and codes while building and renovating, in order to avoid the added cost and time of dealing with fires as a result of code violations.

The top three causes of construction and renovation fires are in a virtual tie for occurrence percentage, though their resulting damage varies. Electrical failure or malfunction causes 15% of construction fires, while another 14% each come from abandoned or discarded materials and heat sources too close to combustible materials.

Electrical malfunction also causes 16% of civilian injuries in these types of fires, while discarded material and combustion from heat sources cause 6% and 19%, respectively. Also of note is that fires caused by heat sources being too near to combustibles causes almost one fifth of all direct property damage from construction fires.

There are a few other causes of significance, though none with quite the impact of the top three. These include welding and cutting in close proximity to flammable materials or objects, unattended equipment, failure to properly clean work areas and various misuses of materials. The combination of these add up to 26% of construction fires and 27% of civilian injuries, but only 11% of property damage from fires on construction sites.

Adherence to fire codes and proper methodologies could prevent most of these unfortunate fires, and while it’s not always the most convenient way to do this, following these well-researched, thoughtfully crafted prevention codes is the safest way to manage any construction or renovation project.

Considering fire agencies respond to more than 6,000 construction fires alone each year, this report shows us that we’ve still got some ground to make up when it comes to proper fire safety methods.

If your construction project should be hindered by an unfortunate fire, we’re here to help, regardless of the cause. Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties to find out how we can help you get back on track.

The 3 Toxicity Levels of Water Damage

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

No matter the water damage, we can quickly set things right. Contact the SERVPRO of Fayette-Fulton team to learn more.

Water damage can happen all sorts of ways, and it can certain cause myriad problems, not the least of which is its potential for toxicity. But how do we determine which water sources are toxic and which aren’t? Why isn’t it safe to touch or swim in floodwater, but rain is fine—aren’t they the same?

These distinctions are very important, and there’s a governing body called the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification that helps us understand them.

Category 1: Clean Water Damage

Damage from so-called “clean” water is the least worrisome kind of damage, and assumes a certain level of cleanliness from its sources—typically things like refrigerators, water supply lines for appliances or even showers.

The nature of this type of damage means most of the damage mitigation involves simple drying, extracting and dehumidifying, and most instances of clean water damage don’t create health worries.

Category 2: Grey Water Damage

The next category is referred to as “grey” water. The sources of grey water include sources that aren’t inherently or necessarily toxic, but that could or may be—overflow from toilets, backups from an unfiltered sump pump, or even leaks from a washing machine which could have been holding toxic materials during the wash cycle.

Touching water from these sources may not cause immediate harm, but grey water is still to be avoided as it could cause potential danger all the same.

Category 3: Black Water Damage

“Black” water is the nasty stuff. It carries an immediate, inherent risk of toxicity, sickness or bodily harm, and it requires immediate action for removal to get these risks mitigated. Sewer backflows, broken toilet bowls containing fecal matter and other septic water fall into this category.

It may surprise you, but overflowing ground and river water fall into this category, as does flood water, because they may contain everything from waste to lawn-care chemicals and parasitic organisms. Black water can cause disease and immediate harm, and affected surfaces like carpet or sheetrock must be removed. This water is also the most difficult to deal with in the aftermath, because it requires such care in cleanup.

No matter the water damage or the level of toxicity or danger to your home or family, we can quickly set things right. Contact your local SERVPRO team today to find out how we can tackle water problems of any size or nature.

Creating Your Home’s Fire Safety Blueprint

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

Creating Your Home’s Fire Safety Blueprint

Increasing the fire safety of your home is a great goal. House fires can be traumatic and dangerous events, causing extensive property damage as well as injury or loss of life. However, if you have not previously considered your options for fire safety, getting into the habit of fire prevention around the house may seem like a daunting task.

The good news is that improving your home’s fire safety is ultimately quite a simple task. Once you assess where your gaps in fire prevention efforts are, you can implement simple new habits to better protect your home.

Below, we will help you identify where you could improve fire safety so you can figure out exactly what you can do to help keep your household safer from fires.

Determining Where to Improve Your Fire Safety at Home

**Consider personal safety first.** While fire prevention is quite important, the first thing you should do from a safety perspective is to consider how to protect your family if a fire does start. One of the best things you can do is install smoke alarms throughout the home and test them monthly to ensure they are operational. That way, anyone in the home will be alerted right away if a fire starts and can quickly get to safety. Additionally, you should draft a fire evacuation plan for your household and practice it regularly, so everyone is aware of what to do if the alarms do sound.

**Next, consider your daily habits.** Because many fires are started due to seemingly innocuous errors around the home, it is important to consider how your daily habits could have a role in your fire safety efforts. On average, how careful are you when cooking, lighting candles and utilizing flammable objects? Being aware of little things, like keeping flammable objects away from heat sources, can go a long way toward safety.

**Know the fire risks to watch for.** In addition to building good habits, knowing when to identify a fire risk is an important part of the puzzle. Things such as overloaded extension cords, frayed wires or space heaters being used improperly are red flags regarding fire safety—and quickly addressing them can go a long way towards prevention.

*If you have damage due to a fire in your home, you can count on us for restoration. Get in touch today to learn more about how we can help.

Dangers of Extreme Cold

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

Stay warm and safe in extreme cold temperatures!

While your place of business can get damaged due to winter weather and extreme cold, your personal health & the health of your customers is also at risk.

Fifty-three people died and three were injured due to extreme cold in 2015.

It is important to be aware of the effect extremely cold temperatures can have on you. The two main conditions to be aware of are frostbite and hypothermia.

Frostbite is caused when your skin is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Physical symptoms are white or grayish-yellow skin, skin that feels unusually firm, or waxy numbness.

Hypothermia is when your body temperature falls to an abnormally low temperature, caused from long exposure to cold weather. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. If someone’s body temperature is below 95°F, seek medical attention immediately.

To avoid these conditions, stay indoors if possible. If not, dress warm in layers and try to keep dry.

5 Places to Check After a Hard Rain

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can come from a number of places. If you find any signs of damage to your property, call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton.

We get plenty of rain in the Fayetteville area. The national average for a given city is 38 inches of rain per year, and we beat that average that by more than 10 inches.

Now some of that rain courtesy of your standard, near-daily summer shower. But some of it, as you well know, comes from storms that pack quite a bit more punch.

As a homeowner, it’s incumbent upon you to protect your home as much from water damage as much as possible, or at least to stop it once it’s discovered. So after a heavy rain, here are the places you should check to make sure all is well.

Check your basement. If there’s one solitary place you can anticipate water damage at home, it’s the basement. Homes with basement have a 98% chance of experiencing excess moisture or flooding at some point, so check here first. If you see water pooling, paint bubbling or you smell a damp odor, you may have an issue.

Crawlspaces and attics. Much like the basement, these areas can become inundated with moisture. If you have a crawlspace instead of a basement, it’s subject to the same kind of moisture issues, and attic moisture can reveal to you that there’s a leak somewhere in the roof.

Check on your sump pump. Your sump pump works hard to move water away from your house during a big storm. You should test your pump quarterly, or after any major rainfall.

Examine your gutters. Your gutters catch more than rain, and there are plenty of ways for them to get clogged or even damaged. In particularly heavy rains, gutters can be overwhelmed by water flow, and that becomes even more likely if they are obstructed due to built-up dirt, granules from roof shingles, twigs and leaves.

Inspect your roof. You don’t have to get up on a ladder every time it rains, but after a heavy storm, particularly if you have overhanging tree branches, take a good look at your roof from the ground. If you notice anything that looks off—broken or warped shingles, unfastened flashing or gutters that seem out of place—call a professional to conduct a full examination.

Water damage can come from a number of places at home. If you find a source of water leakage has done harm to your property, call your local SERVPRO for fast, expert help.

Is Your Household Prepared for Severe Weather?

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

If you have damage to your household due to severe weather, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties.

While severe weather is an inevitable occurrence, it is something that many people find themselves to be unprepared for when the moment strikes. Because many storms come and go without ever causing damage, it is all too easy to assume that there is no real danger present—until there is.

Preparing for severe weather may not be the most glamorous of tasks, but it is something that will help keep you and your family safer during severe weather—and it can even reduce the likelihood of damage occurring to your home, too. If you are unsure whether your family is prepared as possible for severe weather, read on to learn some things to take note of.

A Checklist to Make Sure Your House Is Prepared for Severe Weather 

Do I have an emergency kit built? You should have an emergency kit located in an easily accessible place that contains enough food and water for every member of your household for at least a few days, as well as first-aid supplies, flashlights and batteries.

Do I have a designated safe storm area? Having a place to go to in case of severe weather is a must, so it is wise to designate an area of your house as your family’s safe place. Ideally, this is a basement, but it can also be a bathroom, closet or any other area in the home that does not have any windows.

Do I know where my local shelters are? You will typically be advised by emergency officials to stay put in the event of severe weather, but if there is an evacuation order, it is important to know where to go. Make sure you know where the shelters in your area are located and which ones accept families with pets, if applicable.

Do I have an emergency radio? During severe weather, cell phones can be an unreliable source of information between power outages and cell phone reception issues. An emergency weather radio, either a hand crank or battery-powered model, is the most reliable way to get pertinent information from local weather officials.

If you have damage to your household due to severe weather, do not hesitate to give us a call.
We are here 24/7 to provide a rapid response—contact us today.

Tips for Recovering After a House Fire

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

House fires trend to peak during the winter. SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties is available 24/7 in the event of an emergency.

No one likes to think about suffering a loss like a house fire, but it’s a reality for millions of American families every year. House fires aren’t a seasonal risk to your home, but they do happen more frequently during the winter months.

If your family suffers a house fire, even one that does extensive damage, you can take steps to recover what you can from your home and recover emotionally, too. These tips can help you start the restoration process and help you deal with the aftermath of a house fire.

Protect Your Business With a Water Damage Prevention Plan

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton is the best cleanup and recovery team in the industry. Contact us for any restoration needs.

Water damage events like floods, leaks and burst plumbing can cause serious damage and create serious headaches for your business—from ruined documents to moldy walls and carpet, there’s a wide range of problems a surprise water situation can cause. But surprisingly few business owners have an actual plan to prevent water damage, even though it can save multiplied thousands in business interruption and other costs.

Many if not most workplaces have a fire plan, but statistically speaking, you’re more likely to have to deal with water damage than a destructive fire, so it’s definitely in your interest to plan ahead and do everything you can to protect your business assets and teams from the damage a water event could cause.

Understanding Fire Sprinkler System Requirements for Commercial Spaces

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

If your business is damaged from a fire, trust the experts at SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties to make it "Like it never even happened."

If you own a business or other type of commercial space, fire safety is extremely important. Not only is adhering to fire codes a must to allow for your continued operation, but it is also key that you do everything you can to protect your staff and your customers who are working and doing business inside the space.

Preparations can also reduce the impact of a fire, and given that over half of businesses are not able to recover after a fire emergency, doing what you can to reduce a fire’s impact is a prudent move.

One vital element of safety and harm reduction is a fire sprinkler system. While fire sprinklers are not *always* required in commercial buildings, they are more often than they are not—and even if they are not required in your specific situation, it is likely worth having them installed given that sprinklers are effective in stopping 88% of commercial fires when they are installed.

How Do I Know if I Need Fire Sprinklers in My Commercial Space? 

While every area will have local fire codes for businesses that may vary, some of the national guidelines are included below:

* Fire sprinklers must be installed in any new commercial building exceeding 5,000 square feet, or any building that is renovated to contain 5,000 square feet after construction.

* Buildings more than 55 feet in height must have fire sprinklers on every floor.

* Self storage buildings must have fire sprinklers installed, except in single story facilities with no indoor corridors.

* If the municipal water pressure to the building is not adequate to pressurize the sprinkler systems, a fire pump should also be installed.

If you are unsure about whether you need a sprinkler system in your commercial space, or you have questions about the system you have, your local fire department will likely be able to connect you with the right person to make an assessment. In addition to installing fire sprinklers, they can help you determine if your fire escape routes, fire exits and fire extinguishers are up to code as well.

If your business is damaged from a fire, we can help. Contact us today to learn more about our commercial restoration services for businesses impacted by fires, floods and more.

The Sights, Smells and Sounds of Water Damage

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes at home, choose SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton. We are your local water restoration team.

Water damage can hide for a little while before revealing itself in your home, but it can only hide for so long. Depending on the type and location, it may be a matter of a few minutes, hours or days before you notice something’s going on, but eventually the water will collect itself somewhere or affect something you can’t help but notice.

Let’s look at the most common ways you can catch a leak in the act, and hopefully put a stop to it before it becomes a full-blown problem.

Spots. They call those fraud protection overlay images “watermarks” for a reason. One of the absolute telltale signs of water damage is noticing dark or wet spots on your ceiling or walls, both indicative of a leak from above. These can let you know there’s a problem on the roof or in the attic, or something happening with a pipe inside the wall.

Paint or drywall that flakes or bubbles. Paint can’t cover a water leak for long—eventually it will show in the form of cracking, bubbling or flaking. And drywall will expand, crack or otherwise fluff up as it becomes damp. (It will also weaken significantly.)

Puddles and pooling water. You clean up a puddle in the floor or under a cabinet, or you dry a wet spot in the carpet, only for it to come back. Uh oh. There’s something under there causing water to pool up and seep through.

Running water sounds. Like we said, water leaks can hide for a while before they become visible. But a keen ear in a quiet moment might help you catch something going on. Be on the listen-out for the sound of running water inside the walls when no plumbing is in use. You should also heed sounds like bubbling, gurgling or whistling from your water heater or plumbing in general.

Moldy smell. A musty, pungent odor can be a dead giveaway that moisture has gotten out of control or that water damage is evident in a basement or bathroom. If you catch that signature smell, mold is already growing and you need to take action.

Your utility bill. If your home doesn’t tell you about hidden water leaks, your utility bill may. If you notice an uptick without explanation, it could indicate a hidden leak—for example, a puncture or root invasion in an underground pipe that could lead to serious foundation problems.

If leaks lead to water damage, you’ve got a friend in the restoration community. Call SERVPRO to get yourself safely back in the dry.

Fire Safety & HVAC Maintenance

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

If fire should become a problem, contact the pros in green, SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton.

Being a responsible homeowner means taking care of the things that take care of you. Your HVAC system is always there, and there are few (if any) days per year in our area where you aren’t relying on it to keep your home comfortable. It often goes unappreciated—that is, until something goes south or stops working.

There are also some important fire safety concerns of which you need to remain aware, particularly as winter comes in and your HVAC switches to heating mode. Don’t let your source of comfort turn into a source of disaster.

Here’s what you need to do to make sure your HVAC system and furnace are running safely this fall and winter.

Time Is More Than Money

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

When water causes damage to your home or business, we’re here to help. Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton for a quick response.

You know the old adage as well as we do: Time is money. At least since its 18th century usage by Ben Franklin, it’s been an aphorism used to convey the cost of slackness in one’s work, or the value of being diligent.

And it holds a kernel of truth. In many situations, waiting to act, work or adapt will cost you fiscally. And while this is also true when it comes to home repair, it doesn’t convey or reveal the full truth.

Time is indeed more than money. Time is damage.

When your home experiences a damaging incident such as a water line break or fire, it’s absolutely imperative that you act quickly, and that your service company does the same. That’s one of many reasons SERVPRO offers 24-hour emergency service—we know every minute spent waiting means a deeper, more destructive impact on your home, and more time you have to spend with your life upended from it.

After a fire, for example, your home will immediately be inundated with stains from soot—heavy discoloration of walls and objects begin right away, and only deepen the longer you wait. This damage becomes permanent in only a few days’ time, making it impossible to remove without completely rebuilding the walls.

Further down the line, your home could experience structural damage, warping and permanent smoke smell, not to mention the effect on your furniture, clothes and more.

When your home experiences a water damage emergency, the urgency is much the same, though the effect differ. Belongings, documents and furniture experience immediate damage, some of which is reversible if fast action is taken. But the longer things sit, the more permanent the damage becomes—drywall, sub-flooring, and belongings can all become lost, warped or rusted.

Then, of course, there’s mold. In only 24 to 48 hours, mold growth begins unless moisture is completely dealt with and extracted. Regular drying or removal of dampness won’t do—if you want to ensure the safety and sanitation of your home after water damage, complete extraction is necessary.

So you see, time in this case is much more than money, though it will cost more to undo the damage done to homes in which more time has passed. When an emergency comes, take advantage of the ²⁴⁄₇ care of your local SERVPRO. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

When water or fire damage your home or business, call on the industry leaders in restoration and recovery. Contact SERVPRO to get help now.

Tree Hazards Are a Serious but Overlooked Storm Danger

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

When storms cause issues, we make it our priority to make things right again. Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton today.

There’s an assailant in your yard. An attacker, or possibly even a gang of them—a gaggle of malfeasants waiting for the right moment to strike.

We’re talking, of course, about your trees. Sure, they look innocent enough—they mostly stand around, though occasionally they may wave. But they’re waiting on a signal, ready to cause damage to your property or your home with a strong wind or a bolt of lightning.

Storm-related tree damage is a very real threat, and yet it’s something we often don’t prepare for well. 2020 alone saw more than 16,000 reports of damage from thunderstorm winds, and many of those were downed trees. Severe thunderstorms and extreme weather events often carry winds upwards of 60 miles per hour, which is enough to down a tree.

But of course, you love your trees and the shade, oxygen and beauty they provide, and you wouldn’t want to see them gone. So let’s look at what you can do to avoid potential damage to and from them in a heavy storm.

Disaster Recovery You Can Count On

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties is your local restoration expert. When disaster strikes north Georgia, we are ready to help.

Part of being a responsible homeowner is knowing the weather patterns of the region—it informs how you build, how you plan, even how you dress. If you live near the Atlantic coast, you know tropical storms are an issue. In the West, wildfires are particularly dangerous.

Living in north Georgia means being aware of the inherent risk of natural disasters for this area. There’s always a risk of flooding when you get the amount of rain we see here, and our risk of tornadoes in Fulton County is much higher than both the national average and the average across the rest of the state.

Knowing that risk means you should also know how you’re going to handle recovery efforts for your home or business, should they become damaged by a tornado or other disastrous event. You need to know that when something bigger than a DIY solution is needed, you’ve got someone you can reach out to. Here’s why that someone should be us.

We’re “Faster to Any Size Disaster.” Why? Because when it comes to recovery, speed matters. Homes that sit and soak in mold and smoke are never the same without extensive rebuilding. Around 90% of businesses that don’t recover quickly after a disaster fail to stay open at all. Contacting SERVPRO means you’ve got a team on the way, right away. And we’re available ²⁴⁄₇ for emergency assistance.

We’re the experts. Nobody does it like SERVPRO. When you’ve been around as long as we have, you learn to get right to the heart of disaster recovery. We’ve pioneered new techniques, innovated home and business solutions, and earned us the reputation of being the leading name in the restoration and recovery space. When you want your home restored to its full glory, you call the experts in green.

Help is on the way. Large-scale disasters bring a flurry of necessary recovery activity, but that shouldn’t mean you have to wait, or that your work gets pushed aside for bigger projects. That’s why when the area is hit with major storms or disaster events, we can call on the power of the national SERVPRO network, bringing extra teams and resources in to help. Your work never stops until the recovery is complete, because we’ll be on the scene in full force to get it done.

When disaster strikes north Georgia, we’re here to help. Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties to see how you can get the best team in the game on your side.

Prepare and Review for 2022!

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

Whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood, don’t wait until disaster strikes—resolve to be READY.

While we only hope to see good things come about in a new year, it is always a good idea to plan ahead for the not-so-good things—like fire or water damage—that are always an unexpected and unwelcome disaster. This year, take the time to be "Ready for whatever happens."  Preparation and review will help get you through anything in 2022!

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Plan (ERP) will help you ensure you and your facility are prepared. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.

Advantages of the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile®

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.

• A concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.

• A guide to help you get back into your  building following a disaster.

• Establishes SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.

• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood, having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster. Don’t wait until disaster strikes—resolve to be READY. 

The Sounds of Fire Safety

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

If you should experience a fire in your home, SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton is here to help recover and restore.

We’re bombarded by sounds at almost every moment of the day. Some we learn to ignore, some we discount as noise and some—babies crying and police sirens, for example—we prioritize as important and urgent.

A few of these sounds of urgency come from fire detection devices. When smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors make noises of any kind, it’s crucial to pay attention and take action. Knowing the sounds of safety could play a crucial role in keeping your home and family safe.

Today, let’s cover all the chirps and beeps of your household detection devices, so you know what to be listening for and what to do when you hear it.

Smoke Alarm Sounds

Three beeps. If your smoke alarm is emitting a continuous pattern of three loud beeps, that means smoke and/or fire have been detected. Don’t wait, and don’t hesitate—get out of the house and call 9-1-1, and let your local responders figure out the source of the issue and deal with any fire inside.

Smoke alarms can be triggered by steam, dirt or even bugs, but it’s safer for you to get out than to put yourself in danger trying to be sure.

Chirping. If your alarm is making a short “chirp” sound every 30 to 60 seconds, your battery is low and needs replacement. To avoid this noise, change your batteries at least once a year, but the NFPA recommends doing it whenever you change your clocks for Daylight Saving Time.

If your alarm continues to chirp after you’ve changed its batteries, check to ensure that the batteries are installed in the right direction. If they are, your smoke detector may have reached the end of its life. Detectors should be replaced every 10 years.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm Sounds

Four beeps. In the same way your smoke alarm beeps three times to indicate danger, your CO alarm will beep four times if a leak is detected. Get out, stay out and call 9-1-1. You won’t see anything indicating the presence of carbon monoxide, but your alarm knows when it senses it.

Chirping. Change your batteries if your CO alarm is chirping every 30 to 60 seconds. If beeping continues, check to ensure that your batteries are installed correctly. If chirping still persists, replace your unit.

End-of-life sounds. Different manufacturers use different sounds to indicate that a CO alarm has reached the end of its life. If your alarm is making a sound you don’t recognize, consult your user guide or the manufacturer’s website.

If you should experience a fire in your home, we’re here to help recover and restore your house and belongings. Contact us today to see how we can help.

Does Your Family Have a Fire Safety Plan in Place?

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

If you need assistance with damage due to a house fire, you can count on SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties.

While no one wants to experience a fire in their household, how many of us can say with certainty that we are doing all that we can to prevent one? Home fires occur with more frequency than many people realize, and they are often due to simple errors or oversights that could be prevented.

Additionally, many house fires are more catastrophic than they need to be due to not everyone having a plan in place for how to handle such an emergency.

Because prevention and safety are so important when it comes to house fires, having a fire safety plan in place is one of the best things you and your family can do to stay safe. Making sure you are practicing prevention and know how to  respond to a house fire can go a long way in protecting everyone that is living in your household.

What to Include in a Fire Safety Plan

Best practices for preventing fires. When it comes to house fires, prevention is the best and
first line of defense you should dedicate time to—the best case scenario is not having to deal with a house fire at all. Making sure everyone in the household is aware of how to prevent a house fire and why it is important to do so is a must. Habits such as leaving candles unattended or not staying near the stovetop when it is on can be costly and dangerous.

A roadmap for prevention tactics. In addition to getting into good daily habits to prevent fires,
it is also a good idea to make a plan for how you will do necessary maintenance items to reduce
your fire risk as well. Things such as testing your smoke alarms every month, checking the flammable items you may have stored in the garage or basement and ensuring that your fire
extinguishers are all in good working order are great maintenance tasks for a fire safety boost.

A detailed escape plan. When a house fire starts, you will generally only have about two
minutes to escape to safety, so having a plan together is a must. Make sure everyone in your
household is aware of how to evacuate from different areas of the home, that there are two exits from each room and that you have an external meeting place established where you will all convene while you wait on the fire department to arrive.

If you need assistance with damage due to a house fire, you can count on us. Get in touch at
any hour to learn more about our damage restoration process or to get a quick response to
damage of your own.

September is National Preparedness Month

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO® of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties to find out more on how to be ready when a disaster strikes with the Emergency READY Program.

As a business owner, insurer or property manager, you are a leader in your community and have the opportunity to set an example for your employees, policyholders, and customers to follow.

September is National Preparedness Month (NPM). This year for NPM, join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading the efforts to encourage your community as a whole to become more prepared. Disasters happen?and not only do they devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities, including local businesses of all sizes.

The 2021 theme is "Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love."

As an employer in your community, having a business continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees, and its infrastructure, and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster happens. You can do this by taking three simple steps:

• Plan to stay in business
• Encourage your employees to become ready
• Protect your investment

We must work together to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship, and neighborhoods are ready for the unthinkable.

There are many supporting resources available at ready.gov/september where you can find vital information on how to begin preparing your business for a disaster, as well as addressing unique needs during an emergency situation. You can also contact SERVPRO® of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties professionals to find out more on how to be ready when a disaster strikes with the Emergency READY Program®.

*Restoration Newsline Vol 32, Iss 9

Finding and Operating Your Main Water Shutoff Valve

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

Water leaks can dump hundreds of gallons of water into your house. If you need help contact the SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton right away.

Think fast—do you know where your water main is? If you can’t answer this question immediately, you’re going to want to familiarize yourself with its location.

When pipes burst or something from your own water supply is sending water flooding into your home or basement, the first thing you need to do is stop the flow, and the main shutoff valve is the best place to do it.

Finding Your Shutoff Valve

If you get your water supply from a municipal water supply, your main shutoff valve is probably right inside your home, on the side of the house that faces the street. This is the first place water comes in from the supply source, and your home will have a straight-line pipe bringing the water in from the street.

There may also be an additional valve called a curb valve, located at the spot where your property meets the sidewalk or street. If you can’t locate your main shutoff valve inside, there’s bound to be one here.

Look for a trap-door-style box or manhole. (You may need a special tool or even special permission to shut your water off from here. Call your water company if you’re not sure.)

Can’t Find It?

If you’re looking inside, look to the area right inside the perimeter of the home, where water service would first enter. Look high if you’re in a basement, and low if you’re above ground level.

If you can find your exterior valve at the street, walk straight toward your house from there—it’s likely that’s exactly where the water line is headed.

If you still can’t find it, check the inspection report you received when you purchased your home. There should be a section regarding plumbing, which should tell you where your main shutoff valve is and may even include a photo.

Turning Your Water Main Off

Your shutoff valve could be one of several types, but most can be figured out quickly.

A ball valve will probably look like a handle to you. When the handle is turned 90 degrees, it either opens or closes the flow of water using a rotary ball inside the pipe.

A gate valve uses a round handle that resembles a fire sprinkler head—turning this handle opens and closes a gate within the pipe that will stop the flow.

The street side valve, as stated, may require a special tool such as a water meter key, and may be difficult to open. Again, it may not be OK for you to close the valve without permission, so contact your water company before attempting it.

Water leaks can dump hundreds of gallons of water into your house, creating a major catastrophe. But you’ve got a friend in the industry ready 24 hours a day—contact SERVPRO to get recovery started right away.

Dispelling Myths About Lightning Strikes

9/4/2021 (Permalink)

If you have damage due to a storm or lightning strike, SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties are here to help.

Lightning is an extremely common weather occurrence, but it is also an event that is typically
misunderstood. Every single thunderstorm contains lightning (in fact, lightning is actually what causes thunder), which means every single thunderstorm presents the risk for injuries and fires due to lightning strikes.

Though lightning strikes frequently, there are many persistent myths about its dangers, its
behaviors and its deterrents, which we will be dispelling below.

Lightning Myth 1: If It Is Not Raining, You’re Safe

Lightning is an extremely powerful force and has been known to strike up to three miles from a
storm’s center—meaning you can be far away from the rain and even the cloud cover and still
be threatened by lightning.

Lightning Myth 2: It Will Only Strike the Tallest Object

Lightning is not logical in its approach, and it will often strike objects that are much lower than
those around them. Lightning has been known to strike the ground next to a tree or a car next to
a house, so it is impossible to predict exactly where it will land.

Lightning Myth 3: Lie Flat on the Ground if You Can’t Find Shelter

While lying flat on the ground may seem like it would make you less of a target in a
thunderstorm, it is actually an extremely dangerous position to put yourself in. When lightning strikes, it can produce major electrical currents that can run through whatever it has hit—so if it strikes the ground, you can put yourself at risk for electrocution if you are lying down.

Lightning Myth 4: A Car’s Tires Will Protect You From Lightning

While sheltering in a car is not the worst thing you could do in a storm, the safety it provides has nothing to do with the rubber car tires. If lightning strikes a car, the car’s metal body will divert the lightning away from the passengers and pass it through to the ground. This also means that if you are in a vehicle with a fiberglass construction (such as an RV), it does not offer adequate protection.

*If you have damage due to a storm or lightning strike, we are here to help. We can help with
water damage, fire damage and more—contact us today to learn all about our services.*

The Four Common Types of Thunderstorm

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

No matter the storm and no matter the damage, SERVPRO Fayette/S. Fulton is here to make it right.

Summer is a surprisingly common time for thunderstorms in the South. The breezy, warm summer air needs a gentle nudge from a mountain or hilly area to push it into the upper atmosphere and start all those electrons bouncing around.

Once a convection cycle begins, it’s only a matter of time before the lightning starts and you have to move indoors.

There are four typical kinds of storms we encounter in the U.S., and it’s good to know what could be out there. Let’s look deeper into the most common storms.

Single-Cell Storms

These are your basic summer afternoon storms. Sometimes referred to as “popcorn convection” storms, these storms pop up almost at random in the afternoon and evening heat, and dissipate within an hour.

They are not part of any organized weather front, and while they produce heavy rain and lightning, they are rarely severe.

Multi-Cell Storms

Thunderstorms often form in clusters, with multiple cells merging together in various states of formation. While single cells still operate within the cluster, they are replaced with new cells as they move, and they create a larger, more dangerous system than a single-cell storm.

These storms can produce new cells so quickly and further upstream that they appear to be growing backward, against the upper wind. They can also produce cells in an echo-type formation, which are capable of dropping hail, dangerous amounts of rain and flash floods.

Squall Line

Sometimes thunderstorms continually reform at the edge of a weather system, leaving hail and rain behind them as they travel. These groupings of storms arrange themselves in a linear pattern, forming long, thin bands of heavy storms.

They can be hundreds of miles long, but often pass quickly as they may have a width of only 10 to 20 miles. These kinds of storm systems don’t typically produce tornadoes, though they can—they’re more likely to produce straight-line wind damage.

Supercells

These are the ones weather experts have nightmares about. A particular kind of single-cell storm that can live for hours, supercell storms are most likely to produce hailstones larger than golf balls, and are almost always the source of tornadoes.

Supercells are formed when wind is coming from different directions at different atmospheric levels, causing rising, warm air to rotate. These storms boast can produce both updraft and downdraft winds over 100 mph. It is from these cells that wall clouds, which give birth to funnel clouds and tornadoes, form.

No matter the storm and no matter the damage, SERVPRO is here to make it right. When you have water, wind or hail damage, contact us for rapid, thorough assistance.

Conditions Might Be Right For Growth

8/29/2021 (Permalink)

If you suspect growth in your home, call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties to assess the situation.

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of growth exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mildew is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mildew will grow. Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mildew growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote growth activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mildew growth.

If you suspect growth in your home, call SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

Call us today at 770-716-3595

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties for mold remediation services.

The Company You Can Trust When Storms Rage in Fayette County

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

When storms affect your home or business, SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton is here to assist, from start to finish.

Some disasters are preventable—many fires, for instance, are accidental in nature and caused by carelessness. Some water damage, such as pipes bursting in a freeze, can be headed off by letting water drip to relieve pressure.

But storms, while predictable, can’t be prevented or stopped. We can prepare, but to be totally honest, sometimes there’s nothing we can do to protect our homes from being overwhelmed by the damage storms can cause.

From damaging lightning strikes and hail to flash flooding and wind damage, storms are a force of nature we can’t control, and Georgia is as prone as anywhere to events like the 2009 rain barrage that caused half a billion dollars in damage in the metro Atlanta area.

Trust SERVPRO to See You Through the Storm

Storms cause a lot of damage in our area, and considering that Georgia averages 50+ storm days per year, that’s no surprise. Hail, wind and flooding can all mean you may need someone to trust with repairs and recovery. That’s where we come in.

With fast, local service combined with the power of a nationwide network of resources, research and technology, SERVPRO will be on the job right away to make sure your storm damage is minimized, and that further damage is prevented.

Each local SERVPRO professional is highly trained to deal with water damage—it’s the cornerstone of the SERVPRO business. We’ll use advanced techniques to dry out any moisture and restore your home and possessions to their pre-storm condition, as well as handle any necessary repairs or reconstruction.

Our elite disaster recovery team is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so that we can react immediately to whatever the storm may bring.

For over 50 years, SERVPRO has been the leader in the restoration and recovery industry, and our 1,700 national franchises and continued growth are proof that our methods are effective and our teams are trustworthy.

When Georgia is affected by storms of any nature—hail, hurricane, tornado or old-fashioned thunderstorms, SERVPRO is the name you can count on to see you through the restoration process.

When storms affect your home or business, we’re ready to help. Get in touch today to get the pros in green on your side.

General Household Maintenance to Prevent Water Damage

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

If you need assistance with water damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties!

If you are a homeowner, you probably have a long list of home maintenance projects you tackle
every season to keep things neat, nice and operating well. While these maintenance tasks are often primarily focused around aesthetics, you can also do some functional maintenance tasks to prevent leaks around your home.

Water damage is a major surprise for many homeowners, and it can be a costly one, too. Water damage accounts for about $13 billion worth of damage costs every year, and many types of water damage are not covered in a standard homeowner’s insurance policy.

Fortunately, with our tips below, you can ensure you are doing your due diligence to prevent
water damage in your own home each year.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Household Water Damage

Fix any seals that are looking weak. The seals around your door and window frames are an
extremely important component to keeping out heavy rainfall, but over time, they can start to
deteriorate. Fortunately, with a bit of caulk, you can repair these seals and ensure water is not
able to work its way in via any miniscule cracks. This is also a good thing to do around any
showers, tubs and toilets in your home, too.

Regularly check any hoses to appliances. Most refrigerators, hot water heaters, washing machines and dishwashers will have water hoses directed to them to supply their water needs, but these hoses can start to leak over time—and because these appliances are rarely moved, the potential for leaks is often only found out when it is too late. Be sure you are checking your appliances regularly for any hidden leaks from their water supplies.

Take a look at your roof. Your roof is your home’s No. 1 defense against weather-related
water damage, so be sure it is in good shape to do its job. Look for anything amiss such as
missing or crooked shingles, areas that look worn, or gutters that need to be cleaned or
otherwise attended to so you can stop roof leaks before they have a chance to start.

If you need assistance with water damage, you can count on us! We can address the issue
quickly and start a restoration response at any hour. Contact us today to learn more.

Handling Grease Fires That Flare Up on Your Grill

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

If you have had fire damage to your home due to a grilling incident, you can count on SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties to be there for you.

Grease fires can happen to anyone when they are cooking, but that does not make them any less frightening or damaging to you and your home. Because grills are often used primarily to cook meat, grease fires are extremely common during cookouts—there is data that indicates that over 5,000 grill fires happen each year, leading to millions in damages and thousands of personal burns.

Although anyone can experience a grease fire no matter how many precautions they take, by following these safety guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of one happening to you, keeping your cookouts safer for everyone around.

How to Prevent and Handle Grease Fires When Grilling

1. Perform the proper grill maintenance. Cleaning your grill’s grease traps and drip pans is always the No. 1 recommendation when it comes to preventing grease fires, because it is something that even the most experienced grillmasters can forget. These trays will typically be located underneath your burners and should be removed and emptied when the grill is off. Making it a habit to do this before you start grilling for the day is best.

2. Keep your grates cleaned. In addition to your drip pans, your grill’s grates can also use some TLC to prevent fires. Grease can become stuck on the grates after you grill, and because these can ignite if they get too hot, they can pose a hazard if not handled. Scrape your grill grates thoroughly after every use while the grill is still warm to prevent these food bits from posing a hazard next time.

3. Have a fire extinguisher handy. While many fires can be extinguished with water, putting out a grease fire requires special considerations due to their unique nature. Keep a multi-purpose fire extinguisher that is rated for grease fires nearby every time you use your grill so you can stop any fires before they grow out of hand.

If you have had fire damage to your home due to a grilling incident, you can count on us to be there for you. Give us a call at any hour to learn more about our restoration processes and receive a quick response from our team of technicians.

Spotlight on: Document Restoration

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties is your leader in document restoration.

As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO® of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties knows timely mitigation is the key to reducing severity and recovering damaged items. Water-damaged paper goods can rapidly deteriorate. Without proper handling, valuable files and irreplaceable documents could be lost forever. Let SERVPRO's Document Restoration Team help you recover your damaged paper goods before it is too late.

Vacuum freeze drying is the most efficient and effective way to salvage water-damaged documents. SERVPRO® of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties uses sublimation, turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage, to avoid causing more damage to the documents. An example of sublimation is dry ice: dry ice is made of carbon dioxide (not water.) When dry ice is exposed to normal atmospheric conditions, it begins to sublimate, turning directly from its solid stage into its gaseous stage, bypassing the liquid stage.

This process can recover even the most delicate items, from documents to photographs and x-rays, to entire business archives. SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties' goal is to make this process as simple as possible for our customers!

*Source Restoration Newsline Vol 32, Iss 7

Training Your Employees on Fire Safety in the Workplace

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage to your business, you can depend on SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties.

Owning a business presents a large liability for multiple reasons. While you have many things you must plan for, planning for an emergency event such as a fire should certainly be part of your routine. Every year, fires lead to around $10 billion in overall damages, and if your business is not prepared before one happens, these damages can devastate you.

One of the best ways to boost the overall fire safety of your workplace is by training your employees to be conscious about it. When they are empowered to practice fire safety themselves, you can significantly lower your risk and ensure everyone is working together to create a safer office space.

Tips to Empower Your Employees to Be Fire-Safe

Create a fire safety committee. Installing a properly equipped fire safety committee in your office is a great way to tackle fire safety problems and allow you to delegate some of the planning so it does not all fall on you. A fire safety committee can plan evacuation drills, suggest improvements around the office and communicate other fire safety efforts with the staff at large so everyone is in the loop.

Make sure everyone knows the fire protocol. Fire alarms can incite panic in even the most prepared of individuals, but knowing what to do can significantly reduce the fearful instincts they might inspire. Be sure that you have regular workplace fire evacuation drills in order to help your employees be prepared for a real-world fire scenario. Everyone in your building should feel comfortable navigating emergency exit routes and getting to safety when a fire starts anywhere in the building.

Have a fire extinguisher seminar regularly. Fire extinguishers are an effective way to stop an electrical or other small fire in its tracks before it becomes out of hand—but only if your staff knows how to use them. Make sure to train everyone on their operation (you can often have local fire officials pay a visit to do this), and clearly mark where they are throughout the office so everyone is empowered to take action at the first sight of a spark.

If you have fire damage to your business, you can depend on us. Contact us at any hour to learn about our commercial restoration process.

Deep Fryer Safety

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties are your local experts to help you turn that kitchen fire damage back into a functioning kitchen.

Here in the south, fried foods are a necessary food group. It's as essential to our way of life as sweet tea. Frying foods at home is much easier thanks to residential deep fryers. So if you find yourself hankering for some fried chicken or veggies, following these tips to ensure you don't need to call the fire department or SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties. 

*Know your oil smoke point. Each type of cooking oil has it's own smoke point. This is the temperature that your oil begins to smoke and could catch fire. 

*Don’t overfill your deep fryer. Most deep fryers have a max fill line. What most people don't account for is that this should include the food, not just the oil. Overfilling your deep fryer could result in spilling oil and causing a fire and uneven cooking due to the oil temperature dropping. 

*Do not deep fry wet food. Water can cause hot oil to splash and spill over potentially resulting in a fire. Most frozen foods are already mostly dry, but fresh foods can contain a lot of moisture and need to be patted down before putting in hot oil. 

*Keep your deep fryer in clear surroundings. Many deep fryers aren't cool to the touch when cooking. Make sure the are around your deep fryer is free from flammable and combustible materials. 

*Make sure your deep fryer has a break-away cord. This is a standard safety feature on most home deep fryers to keep the fryer from tipping over if the cord is tripped up by something or someone. However, not all have this so inspect yours and use accordingly.

*Have a lid on hand. While not necessary, smothering is the safest way to put out a grease fire. If your deep fryer doesn't come with a lid, find something you can use that will work just as well. 

*Keep a fire extinguisher handy. There are many people who've never thought to have a fire extinguisher in their kitchen in case of a fire. There are many options available for a fire extinguisher made for home use, so make sure you have one to on hand in your kitchen.

*Keep track of your temperatures. Many deep fryers have a built in temperature gauge to track how hot your oil is and make sure your fryer is cooking at the proper heat. These can malfunction so having a separate clip-on thermometer as a back up is a great idea. 

*Dispose of oil properly. Always let the oil cool down completely before storing or disposing of it. If storing, make sure to filter out all food particles so your oil doesn't spoil prematurely. If disposing, make sure to pour into a air tight container. Never pour oil down a drain as it can cause the drain to clog and back up. 

*Use proper protective equipment. Most foods won't splatter as long as excess moisture is removed, but fatty foods like bacon will splatter regardless. Using the handle on the fryer basket will protect you, but having protective gloves as secondary protection is always a good idea. 

Should you find yourself faced with a kitchen fire, trust the experts at SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

*Source: Deep Fryer Safety Tips

Fire Sprinkler Myths Debunked

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

If your home should sustain damage from a fire of any kind, SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties is here to help.

Most of the experience many of us have with fire is fiction—we have a mental image of what happens when a sprinkler system goes off because of what we’ve seen on TV shows or in movies, or even what we’ve read in books. But these portrayals are for story effect, and often don’t reflect reality.

In fact, much of what you may presume about the operation and impact may not be accurate. Let’s debunk some myths about sprinkler systems:

“I don’t need a sprinkler system.”

First: Your home smoke alarms are essential, but they can only alert you. They are powerless to stop a fire. Sprinklers both detect and act, saving lives and property quickly.

Second: Yes, the fire department will come, but in the nine to 12 minutes they need to get to your home, a sprinkler system may have already been able to do the necessary work to contain or put out the fire. Without a sprinkler, you’re looking at more damage from the fire, the smoke, and the water it takes to quench the spreading flames.

“They’re not worth the damage they cause.”

Many people assume (because of movie portrayals) that once a sprinkler system is activated, the entire system is triggered and water instantly sprays everywhere. In truth, the system operates in independent zones, and only the sprinkler closest to the detected fire will activate. And this is most often all that’s necessary: Multiple sprinkler heads are only needed 16% of the time in home fires in which sprinklers are triggered.

And sprinklers cause much less water damage than having the fire department hose your place down for an hour or more. Compare the 10–26 gallons per minute of a sprinkler system to up to a fire hydrant soaking your home with multiplied hundreds, even thousands of gallons per minute.

“They can’t be that effective.”

They really can. The risk of dying in a home fire is reduced by 80% when sprinklers are present, and the average property loss from a home fire with active sprinklers is cut by about 70%.

“Sprinklers are a disaster of their own waiting to happen.”

Sprinklers can occasionally leak, but that situation is less likely and less severe than a typical plumbing problem you’d encounter at home. And like any water pipes, sprinklers are susceptible to freezing temperatures, but installers are held to standards that mandate that sprinklers be safely and properly installed in regions where freezing is common.

Overall, the value and loss prevention of sprinkler systems make them an appealing and potentially lifesaving investment for your home.

If your home should sustain damage from a fire of any kind, we’re here to help. Get in touch today to get SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties on your side.

Preparing for a Disaster Makes Good Business Sense

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties is your local expert on getting your business back up and running following a disaster.

There are many things that business owners must think about throughout their day-to-day operations, and for many of them, adding something extra onto this task list may seem impossible.

While this is understandable, when it comes to preparing for a disaster, it is imperative that business owners make the time to consider it. Many businesses do not get the chance to recover from a disaster, and, while you can’t plan for everything, it is important to prepare for what you can.

Not only will disaster planning help you and your employees stay safer in advance of and during a disaster, but it also makes good businesses sense. Disaster recovery can be too difficult for businesses who have not prepared, rendering them unable to reopen. However, by thinking ahead and utilizing your resources, you can reduce the likelihood that this scenario will happen to you.

So, how does disaster preparedness help your bottom line as a business owner? When you know which commercial restoration company you will work with, you can quickly pursue restoration to prevent further damage. Knowing your what resources are available to you can get your business operational is a little time as possible.

SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties is your local expert on getting your business back up and running following a disaster. We can help you prepare before a fire or water loss by creating an Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP) for you and your staff. This will ensure that everyone knows who the primary contacts and decision makers are, where all shut off valves for water/electricity/gas/etc. are located, and how to get SERVPRO personnel en route to your facility.

There are many other resources you can utilize. For example, after a disaster is declared, the Small Business Administration provides loans for business owners to help with the cost of recovery. If you know what options are available to you in advance, you can apply right away when the time comes to receive these funds as quickly as possible.

It is to be expected that you will have to close your doors for at least a bit while you have the damage restored and prepare to resume operations again. By planning ahead, you can significantly reduce this time. Efficiency is key to getting your doors reopened quickly so you can continue to do what you love.

If your business is damaged in a disaster, we are here to help you. Contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton Counties about commercial restoration 24⁄7 to learn more or to report damages to your business after a disaster.

What Is the Difference Between a Thunderstorm and a Severe Thunderstorm?

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

Any damage to your home is heart-wrenching. If you experience any storm damage, contact SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton.

We’ve all gotten the alerts on our phones before: “The National Weather Service has issued a Thunderstorm Warning.” And then a few hours later, a modified message: “The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning.”

What changed that made this storm be upgraded to severe? What is the difference between these two categories and how serious does it mean this storm is?

The 2 Major Differences Between a Thunderstorm and a Severe Thunderstorm

Hail Damage. A thunderstorm brings rain, thunder and lightning. But one element of a storm that is required for it to be classified as severe is hail that is at least one inch in diameter.

Many people in north Georgia know what hail damage can do to their properties (especially since the most recent storms brought significant hail and heavy rains to our area).

Hail can become as large as a grapefruit and can fall at incredibly speed, so the opportunity for it to cause damage is very high. To prepare for a storm that is going to have hail, ensure all people and pets have sturdy shelter, move your vehicle to a covered area, and repair or replace any loose shingles on your roof.

High Winds. Thunderstorms can generate strong winds that can cause damage to your property, especially if there are loose outdoor items that haven’t been secured such as lawn furniture, patio umbrellas and children’s toys. However, for the storm to be considered a severe thunderstorm, there must be a sustained straight-line wind measurement of 58 miles per hour or more.

Some storms can bring wind gusts of more than 100 miles per hour, which can cause serious damage to permanent structures. These types of winds can topple trees, flip mobile homes, rip off a roof of a home and more. The most important thing to do in a storm of this magnitude is to find shelter as soon as possible.

While some storms pass through with little to no damage, others don’t and can leave behind them a dangerous and overwhelming amount of debris. If your home or business has been impacted by a recent storm, we are here to help you get back on your feet. Call us today to see how we can help.

Is Your Traditional Water Heater in Danger of Rupturing?

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fayette/S. Fulton is your local water restoration experts. Our team is ready and on-call for any emergency.

As a homeowner, there’s a lot to think about. Aside from just keeping up with all the ins and outs of living life, you may have family to raise or care for and outside activities.

The last thing you want to have to think about is an appliance that should just work. It always works, there’s no reason for it to not work—why would it stop working?

One of the appliances that gets taken for granted most is your home’s water heater. It’s probably not something you see or think about very often.

It may be tucked away in the corner of the basement, or possibly even upstairs in an attic where it’s really out of sight. But out of all your home appliances, there is likely none with as much potential for causing disaster as the water heater.

Why a Water Heater Might Rupture

Traditional water heaters (the kinds with big tanks) have any number of components that could fail over time, and they may not last as long as you would expect. Around 15% of water heaters burst by the sixth year of ownership, and up to 40% burst in less than a decade.

Long-term mineral deposits, heating elements (a whole other danger that could lead to a fiery explosion if a tank bursts) and constant pressure applied to the weakest points in the system all add up to a recipe for eventual failure.

What You Can Do to Prolong the Life of Your Water Heater

Replace the Anode Rod. The Anode Rod is a metal-coated core that keeps the metal interior of your water heater from erosion, and it should be replaced roughly every two years depending on your water’s pH balance and softness.

Flush your water heater twice a year. Run out all the hot water (or just let your teenager take, like, one shower), turn off the power and attach a garden hose to the base of the tank, allowing the tank to flush and relieve the internal pressure.

Regular maintenance. Routine, annual maintenance by a trusted professional is always the best way to catch weaknesses before they become problems. Have your plumber check the tank, the valves and the pipes for signs of wear.

Shut it down. It’s also a good idea to turn off your water heater before you leave for vacation, so you don’t end up with any surprises when you get home. This may not prolong your heater’s life, but you don’t want a burst water heater left unattended for any period of time.

We hope these tips help you maintain and keep your traditional water heater running for a long time to come, but should it ever betray you and make a mess in your basement or attic, call us right away to get the damage minimized and your home restored.

Get Your Home Ready for Tornado Season

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Storm season is right around the corner. Contact SERVPRO of Fulton if you experience any damage to your home.

Did you know that 60 tornadoes touched down in Georgia in 2019, according to the most recently available statistics?

Indeed, we aren’t the most tornado-prone state in the country. (That 2019 distinction went to Texas.) But tornadoes are a common enough occurrence in our area that it’s smart to plan for what you’ll do if one touches down nearby.

As with most things, planning makes a big difference. To best protect your property and your loved ones, prepare for a tornado before the season starts, so you can rest assured you’re ready to weather the storms.

Tornado Preparations to Consider

If your family doesn’t already have an emergency kit containing items like your medications, copies of important documents, water and flashlights, it’s smart to start building that now. If it’s ready, you’ll have it when you need it.

Here are a few other things to consider:

Know where your safe room is. This is vital because if a tornado is headed toward your home, you may have only minutes to prepare. Choose a secure, windowless room on the bottom floor of your home.

Keep supplies in your safe room. It’s a good idea to have some bottled water and snacks, as well as a radio, in your safe room. You may want to leave your emergency kit here, too.

Understand your coverage. This step is a simple call to your insurance agent. You’ll want to know exactly what your insurance policy covers in the event of a tornado and decide if you need additional coverage.

If a fire, flood or any other cause damage to your home, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.