Water Damage in Commercial Buildings

6/4/2024 (Permalink)

No matter what type of commercial property is affected, SERVPRO of Moore is here to help restore it back to its preloss condition.

Water damage to your commercial property can be overwhelming. Luckily, SERVPRO of Moore specializes in a multitude of commercial restoration services including water damage. Whether it be a small business, warehouse, high-rise, or other industrial space, the destruction of water damage can be devastating. Not only is your business damaged, but operations may stop, causing a disruption in production and revenue, as well as inconveniencing or causing possible safety concerns for your customers and employees. No matter the size or source of the commercial job, from floods to broken pipes, our team of professionals is ready to respond to your call. We service all industries including: 

• Retail
• Healthcare
• Hospitality
• Educational Facilities 
• Property Management 
• Food Service 

If your commercial property is affected by water damage, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Moore. We’re available 24/7.

What To Know About Contaminated Water

5/30/2024 (Permalink)

Even when water looks clean, it can still be contaminated with microbes that are harmful if you come in contact with it.

Water damage in your home or business caused by scenarios such as sewage back-up or toilet overflow are considered emergencies due to contaminated water that may be carrying bacteria, viruses, or harmful microbes. Contaminated water can cause serious illnesses, which is why it is important to understand what is considered contaminated water and how to go about fixing the damages caused by it. Contaminated water can be classified by three different categories, here is some information about each category.

Category 1:

Contaminated water in this category is typically from a clean source such as a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. But even though it comes from a “clean source”, if it is not taken care of in a quick and efficient manner, it can easily progress to a category 2 or 3 depending on the length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

Category 2:

This category involves contaminated water that could cause discomfort or illness. Examples of this include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow containing urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow. Contaminated water in this category may contain bacteria and viruses and will progress to a category three if left untreated.

Category 3:

Water in this category is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided completely. Examples of this include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth. Contaminated water in this category may contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes.

If you experience water damage of any kind, especially from situations that could contain contaminated water, call SERVPRO® of Moore. We have the specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely remove contaminants and clean the affected areas. In the case of any water damage, we will inspect your home or business upon arrival to determine the best plan of action for the type of water encountered. SERVPRO of Moore understands how important it is to restore your property after experiencing water damage and is available 24/7 for an immediate response

Important Fire Safety For Summer

5/22/2024 (Permalink)

Practicing fire safety this summer could save you from a load of trouble

As the weather gets warmer, the risk for wildfires and house fires increases due to dry weather conditions and the boost of outdoor activities. While summer calls for fun in the sun, it’s important to brush up on some safety tips to decrease your chance of facing a fire while you enjoy the season. 

The U.S. Fire Administration provides these helpful tips on fire safety this summer:

Grill Fire Safety

• Only use the grill outdoors  
• Keep a 3-foot zone around your grill to keep kids and pets safe
• Place the grill far away from siding and deck railings as well as branches
• Open your gas grill before you light it
• Always keep an eye on your grill, never walk away from it when it is lit
• Clean your grill after each use to remove fire-provoking grease build-up
• Place the coals from your grill in a metal can with a lid after cooled
• Do NOT store or use grill on a porch or balcony

Fire Pits, Campfires, Outdoor Fireplaces, and Chimney Tips

• Build campfires at least 25-feet away from anything that can burn such as tents, shrubs, or tree branches
• Use outdoor fireplaces, chimneys, and fire pits at least 10-feet away from your home and anything that can burn
• Keep a close eye on children and pets when using the fire pit
• Use a metal screen over wood-burning fires to contain sparks that try to fly out 
• Put out or turn off fires before you leave the scene
• Store matches and lighters in a safe and secure spot

Firework Safety

• It is advised to avoid use of fireworks completely
• If you want to see fireworks,  go to a public show 

Along with these safety tips provided by the U.S. Fire Administration, it’s also important to be aware of electrical hazards that could cause a fire at any moment. To avoid electrical fires you should:

• Inspect any plugs, cords, and appliances for damage before using them
• Avoid overworking outlets and extension cords
• Turn off and unplug electrical devices when not in use 

Stay Prepared

As the summer months approach, it’s important to ensure you have an emergency plan in place should you experience a fire. By following the safety tips above and brushing up on your emergency plan, you can reduce the risk of experiencing a fire during the heat of the upcoming summer months. 

If you do happen to face a fire this summer, contact SERVPRO of Moore for an immediate response. Our team of certified technicians are available 24/7 to assist you when disaster strikes to get your home or business back to its preloss condition “Like it never even happened.”

The Fight Against Water Damage During Springtime

5/14/2024 (Permalink)

The likelihood of experiencing water damage increases as Spring showers emerge

With spring in full swing, so is storm season. In an attempt to minimize the potential for your property to be affected by water damage, SERVPRO of Moore® has compiled a mix of strategies and tips to keep your home or business  safe this spring and guidance of what you should do if you experience water damages.

Preparing Your Property:

Insurance

One of the most important steps in preparing your property for water damage is ensuring you have the right insurance to help you face potential damage. According to the Insurance Information Institute, different types of water damage is insured by different policies. For example, insurance policies such as homeowner’s insurance and renters insurance offer coverage for water damage due to burst pipes, wind driven rain damage to your roof, and generally any water damage that comes from the top-down. However, most of the time these policies do not include coverage for sewage and drain backups and is something that can be added on to your existing policy. When it comes to flood damage, there is a separate insurance policy specifically tailored to this event which can be purchased from the Federal Government’s National Flood Insurance Program or other select private insurers. Checking with your insurance provider about what is and isn’t covered in your current policies is a key step in preparing your home or business for potential water damage this spring.

Reinforcements & Assessment 

Another crucial step in preventing water damage to your property is to reinforce your home or business by confirming all maintenance is taken care of and up to date and assessing the property to check for cracks, leaks, or potential drainage issues that could cause water to intrude your space. Prioritizing places such as the windows, roof, gutters, doors, and any entryway leading directly from outside is essential during this step.  

Along with these precautionary measures, it is also beneficial to create a personalized Water Damage Prevention plan. The Article “Home and Water Damage Prevention: Protecting Against Leaks and Flooding” provided by staysafe.org includes a detailed guide for you to follow to help with the process of creating a water damage prevention plan.

If Your Property Experiences Water Damage:

Even after adequately preparing your property for potential water damage, there's always a possibility that you will still face disaster. Knowing where to turn after experiencing a water damage event can save you time and stress. In the event of a water damage emergency, contacting professionals such as SERVPRO of Moore is the best response. At SERVPRO of Moore, our restoration experts are prepared and available 24/7 to assist all of your water damage restoration needs. Upon arriving at the scene, we will conduct an inspection and water damage assessment to understand the severity of damage, hazards that could be present, and determine what can be restored. Following our initial inspection and assessment, we will continue with the restoration process which includes water removal, damaged material removal, cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorization, along with drying processes, monitoring, and the needed repairs or reconstruction. With our knowledgeable technicians and state-of-the-art equipment, no problem is too complex for us to conquer. As the #1 choice in clean-up and restoration services, you can trust SERVPRO of Moore to restore your home or business quickly and efficiently if you experience water damage this Spring. Visit our website to learn more about our water damage restoration services.

How to Prepare Your Commercial Property For Storms

4/30/2024 (Permalink)

No matter what type of commercial property is affected by storm damage, SERVPRO of Moore is here to help restore it "Like it never even happened."

With storm season in full swing, is your commercial building prepared for the potential damages that might occur? Learn about the different ways you can prepare your commercial property for the upcoming storms this season.

According to seacoastconstruction.net, these tips prove to be effective in preparing your commercial property for storm season:

1. Complete a building inspection and ensure all maintenance and repairs are up to date: by doing this you can strengthen and protect your building. You can also make upgrades such as compact glass windows to protect from strong winds. You can also visit the FEMA flood map service center to evaluate and determine how susceptible your building is to flooding or resulting water damage and storm damage.
2. Have emergency response plans ready: if you don’t already have a disaster response plan in place, now is the time to create one or revisit the one you currently have in place to update if necessary. In this plan, you need to document how you will protect your property and your employees (if applicable) in the event of a disaster such as a storm.It is also useful in this step to review your company’s insurance policy and to take photos and videos of your property to keep on file in case you need to file a claim.
3. Ensure supplies are well-stocked and test any systems/back-up equipment: this may include fuel, generators, tools, sandbags, or any other protective supplies for your property.
4. When the storm approaches, secure exterior and interior property: this includes windows, electronics, exterior signage, moving furniture and equipment away from the windows, and turning off the electricity before leaving the premises. 
5. Implement communication plans: make sure employees/staff know the processes and procedures before, during, and after the storm and ensure they stay well informed about when it is safe to return to the building. 

Along with these preparation steps, it’s also important to know who your local reconstruction company is that can help you when your commercial property experiences damages due to storms. SERVPRO® of Moore is here to help restore your commercial property, no matter the extent of damage. We are available 24/7 with the skills, expertise, and state-of-the-art equipment to restore your property back to its pre-damage conditions “Like it never even happened.” Contact SERVPRO of Moore for any and all of your restoration needs!

Document Restoration: What You Need To Know

4/24/2024 (Permalink)

Whether its a book, certificate, photograph, contract or any other type of document, SERVPRO of Moore has the equipment and expertise to restore it!

When your home or business experiences damage due to water, fire, or perhaps mold, valued documents may seem lost. Luckily, at SERVPRO® of Moore we offer document restoration services that help salvage your valued items. 

What Exactly IS Document Restoration?

 Document restoration involves methods such as vacuum freeze drying, gamma irradiation, certified destruction/incineration, cleaning, and deodorization that aim to restore damaged documents such as certificates, photographs or any other valuable file.

How Its Done:

• Vacuum Freeze Drying: This process involves freezing and drying an item containing moisture with various vacuums and pressures to achieve sublimation.
• Gamma Irradiation: Used for cleaning/disinfecting, and decontaminating documents by emitting high-energy photons from the isotope force Cobalt 60 to produce ionization, killing organisms that have affected the product.
• Certified Destruction/Incineration: When you or your facility have documents that are no longer needed our certified technicians can dispose of them properly.
• Cleaning: Each document is hand cleaned front and back, removing dirt, soot, or any other contaminants. 
• Deodorization: Achieved by removing the odor causing agent then cleaning the document with various methods such as scrubbing, power-washing, sanitizing, ultrasonic immersion, or whatever else necessary. After the document has been cleaned off, we apply a deodorizer to the affected surfaces.

Our Process:

• Inventory: All documents will be inventoried at the location of the loss prior to packaging.
• Packaging: Documents will then be packaged/boxed accordingly
• Cold Storage: Documents will be frozen to prevent further damage.
• Shipping: Documents will be shipped to the SERVPRO corporate office for vacuum freeze drying.
• Receipt: Upon receipt of documents they will be placed either in cold storage until ready to be processed through the Vacuum Freeze Drying Chamber or processed immediately.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Moore knows that timely mitigation is the key to reducing severity and recovering damaged items. Without proper handling, valuable files and irreplaceable documents could be lost forever. Our technicians are trained to use the most advanced technology for document drying and recovery along with proper HIPPA Master Certification to protect your information and keep it confidential. 

If you experience damage to valuable documents, you can trust SERVPRO of Moore to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

How to Prevent Lingering Issues Following a Fire

4/17/2024 (Permalink)

A fire caused tremendous damage to this house, leaving smoke and soot damage to the structure both inside and out.

Not only does a fire cause visible damage to your property, it can also cause lingering problems that are hard for an untrained eye to detect such as smoke and soot damage. Smoke damage, if not taken care of immediately, can cause discoloration of surfaces, leave behind residues, and cause corrosion over time. Fires can also coat your properties in soot, which not only prolongs the cleaning process but can seep into fabrics, upholstery, and appliances as well as cause irreversible damage to flooring and walls. Lingering effects of fire damage are not limited to property damage, smoke and soot can also pose health risks affecting the respiratory system that can lead to coughing, shortness of breath, and respiratory distress.

In order to prevent further damage to your property and protect your health after you experience a fire, it is important to get a highly-trained and trusted restoration team, such as SERVPRO of Moore, to your home or business immediately. At SERVPRO of Moore, our fire restoration process provides full restoration services after a fire to your residential or commercial property to ensure it goes back to its pre-damage conditions so that you don’t experience any lingering issues such as smoke and/or soot damage. The steps to this process include:

• Step one: Contacting us. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your call to begin the restoration process. Our specialist will ask you a series of questions about the fire event that will help us arrive quickly with the right equipment and resources needed.
• Step two: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. Our team will inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke and soot damage.
• Step three: Immediate Board-up and Roof-tarp Service. SERVPRO® can board up missing windows and walls and place tarp on damaged roofs to avoid further damage and maintain security.
• Step four: Water Removal and Drying. If water damage is present, we remove the water immediately, we will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove any remaining water and complete the drying process.
• Step five: Removal of Smoke and Soot From All Surfaces. SERVPRO uses special equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from walls, ceilings, and any other surfaces. 
• Step six: Cleaning and Sanitizing. We will clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the fire by using various cleaning techniques. We are also trained to remove odors.
• Step seven: Restoration. In this final step, we will get your home to its pre-damage condition. This may involve minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet; or major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas in your home or business.

If your home or business experiences a fire, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Moore to begin the restoration process and get your property back to normal “Like it never even happened.”

How to Prevent Mold Growth in Commercial Buildings

4/5/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Moore comes prepared with the equipment and expertise to fix your business.

Understanding what mold is and how it grows

Understanding mold and how it grows is the first step in preventing your business from being affected. Mold is a fungal growth which can be found almost anywhere moisture and oxygen are present. Growth of mold can be harmful to the structure of your building and has the potential to cause health-issues if breathed in. Some common moisture problems that lead to the formation of mold growth are leaks such as from the roof or plumbing, poor drainage around the property and any scenarios of high humidity or condensation. 

Knowing where to look for mold can also aid in the preventative maintenance of mold growth. Common places that mold can hide are the backside of drywall, wallpaper, the underside of carpets, paneling, and the top of ceiling tiles. Along with these areas mold can also hide in pipe chases or utility pipes if a leak is present, on walls behind furniture when condensation is present, condensate drain pans inside air handling units, and roof materials above ceiling units. Considering possible spots for mold growth is essential to ensuring your business does not suffer the consequences of this fungal infestation. 

There are many suggested prevention strategies along with the knowledge of what mold is and where it grows that are available to you and your business. These strategies include:

• Fixing leaking plumbing/leaks in roofing as soon as they arise
• Prevent moisture by increasing surface temperature such as insulating or increasing air circulation
• Prevent moisture due to condensation by reducing the moisture level in the air by repairing leaks, or increasing air ventilation, or dehumidify
• Perform regular building/HVAC inspections and maintenance 
• Dry/clean wet or damp spots within a 48-hour window 
• Keep heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean and unobstructed
• Vent moisture-generating appliances such as dryers, to the outside where possible
• Don’t let foundations stay wet
• Provide drainage and slope the ground away from the foundation

If you suspect that your business might be impacted by mold, please do not hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Moore. We have the qualified experts to meet your needs and ensure your business is restored back to its normal state “Like it never even happened.”

The Top 5 Causes of Commercial Water Damage

6/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Moore is a one-stop shop for all your mitigation or restoration needs.

Water damage in the workplace isn’t just an inconvenience – it can be dangerous for months after the damage occurs. It’s crucial to act quickly to mitigate commercial water damage and prevent expensive secondary damages by keeping an eye on vulnerable spots in your business. There are several common causes of commercial water damage, and it’s important that you know how to spot them and what to do to fix them if there’s a problem.

Damaged or Broken Pipes Is a Top Cause Commercial Water Damage

One of the leading causes of commercial water damage is broken or damaged water pipes. Several conditions can damage pipes in your building, causing them to burst. While freezing temperatures are rare in our area, they can change the pressure in your pipes, causing them to bulge, crack, or burst. They can also be corroded over time or damaged by human error.You can spot commercial water damage caused by damaged pipes by watching out for water stains on your building’s walls, ceilings, or floors. If you see water stains, notice a mildew-like smell, or see cracked or loose tiles, you should call a professional to find and mitigate the problem. Any water-damaged materials will have to be assessed and either restored or removed.

Sprinkler System Leaks Cause Water Damage

Another cause of commercial water damage revolves around your sprinkler system. A sprinkler system can be damaged by extreme temperatures, corrosion, and mechanical damage. If your indoor sprinkler system is acting up, it can lead to leaks and water damage. Like damaged or broken pipes, you should look out for wet walls, a musty smell, or standing water inside your building. You may also notice ceiling tiles that are brown and discolored; this also indicates a problem with your sprinkler system. To avoid water damage caused by broken sprinkler systems, get a professional to inspect your sprinkler system often for potential problems.

Roof Damage is a Top Cause of Commercial Water Damage 

We  are no strangers to heavy wind and rain, two main causes of roof damage. When your roof is missing tiles, water may leak into the building, causing commercial water damage. This can lead to structural damage, ruin items inside your building, and mold issues. Make sure to regularly check your roof for signs of damage and provide maintenance as needed. If your roof maintains damage after a storm, it is advised to immediately contact SERVPRO of Moore for water damage restoration. Mold can grow in as little as 24 hours. Immediate inspection and water damage remediation will cost far less than water damage restoration paired with mold remediation. Not to mention the additional time it will take and the displacement of all your employees during remediation. If roof damages cause commercial water damage, contact us immediately.

Damaged HVAC System Can Cause Commercial Water Damage

It’s important to maintain your commercial HVAC system and keep it clean to keep your building free from commercial water damage. With time, HVAC systems can wear out or get damaged, leading to water leakage. To avoid this cause of commercial water damage, get a professional to clean and maintain your HVAC systems on a regular basis.

Faulty or Broken Windows Cause Water Damage

Another common cause of commercial water damage is damaged windows or window seals. Damaged windows or unsealed windows let water get into the building. If left unresolved, the excess moisture will lead to mold, damaged building materials, and more water damage. Make sure that your commercial building’s windows are sealed and in working condition. To go one step further, ensure that caulking is reapplied every few years to avoid commercial water damage.

If you suspect that your business has fallen victim to one of these causes of commercial water damage, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Moore. Our professional team of water damage experts can quickly and safely fix all commercial water damage and perform mold remediation if necessary.

Tips for Avoiding Water Damage in Your Home This Summer

5/31/2023 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes your home

It doesn’t matter how big or small your property is, water damage is always incredibly damaging. Even if it feels warmer and drier, one thing to bear in mind during the summer season is water damage. Irrigation systems, summer storms, and a range of other factors can all pose potential hazards to your home. You can prevent more significant damage by taking measures and being aware of the main signs of damage. To learn more click the link below.

There are several signs of water damage all around the house that you should always be familiar with:

• Discoloration. Water damage can be identified by streaks of water that are running down the side of your house.
• Mold. Of course, mold can begin with a minor patch, which does not always imply water damage repair. However, you must act quickly before the problem worsens, especially because mold could also cause health problems.
• Water puddles or pools.  If there is leaking or water is dripping, pools of water are frequently left.
• Smell. Moisture has a distinct odor, which is frequently combined with the musky odor of mold.
• Sound. Water damage will not always be visible, but it can certainly be heard, from dripping to rushing water.

Now that you’re aware of several of the signs of flood damage, let’s look into some of the preventative measures you can take.

1. Inspect for water leakage in your house. There is really only one place to start, and that is by constantly checking for leaks. If you detect leaks faster, you can have them patched before they become larger issues.
2. Clear out your gutters. You should clean your gutter systems on a frequent basis. A clogged gutter will send waves of water down the sides of your building, ruining your foundation as well as siding.
3. Check to see if your yard is sloped. The yard should always slope at least 7 inches away from your property’s foundation. This is critical because it keeps water from getting close to your base, where it would cause leakages, fracture the walls, or start causing the walls to lean.
4. If you are going on vacation, secure your property. If you plan to go on a summer vacation, you should seal up your property. The last thing anyone wants to discover while on a getaway is that a pipe has erupted and your living space has been ruined. Consider switching off the main supply shut-off valve and making sure all of your window panes, doors, as well as attic are tightly sealed.

Water damage requires immediate attention. If you discover any indications of flood damage, you should contact SERVPRO® of Moore quickly in order to make sure that the issue does not worsen. Our specialists will arrive with the knowledge and equipment necessary to restore your property as safely and quickly as possible.