Storm Damage Effecting Your Business?

10/16/2022 (Permalink)

When Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore businesses suffer storm events, SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore will work around the clock to clean up debris and to restore the property to pre-storm conditions. We understand that commercial storm damage can be costly in terms of productivity; that is why it is always our goal to get your business back to preloss conditions so your business can continue to operate efficiently and effectively.

We Have the Resources to Handle Large Commercial Storm Damage 

When a storm hits Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, we can scale our resources to handle large-loss commercial restoration projects. Regardless of the size we are able to provide the resources to ensure your commercial property is restored. We have access to equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,600 Franchises across the country.

We prioritize your needs in the middle of your loss with nightly recaps, timely communication, ensuring we maximize time and stay within budget to bring your company back to preloss conditions. 

If your business is ever damaged by severe floods or storms, call us right away at (816)884-2240. Disaster can strike when we least expect it, but SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore will be there to help you weather the storm.

Fire Escape Planning For Your Business

10/16/2022 (Permalink)

An emergency plan is not required for all businesses, however, OSHA recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing a plan. 

Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan. 

Once a plan is developed, post-evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked, well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover and conduct a head count. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.

Shut Off Valves at Work

10/16/2022 (Permalink)

Many workplaces always call on the boss or the maintenance man when something goes wrong. What if they were homesick, or in a meeting and you need to locate the water shutoff, where do you start? 

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore can help commercial properties in planning for water, fire, and storm damage. How, with a free Emergency Response Profile created by the SERVPRO Marketing Department. 

By having a plan of action and including it in your regular training at your office you can minimize the cost of an unplanned event like a frozen pipe, fire, or anything. 

Some property managers use this as a tool to keep everything organized in one central location. 

Is your business ready for a disaster? Even a simple pipe burst can cause a lot of damage and headaches. A SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile can have critical information to minimize damages, provide the resources for the employees of the company, and provide property details and information. This is a FREE service that we provide to commercial properties. 

If the unthinkable happens, call your local SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore Professionals at (816)884-2240 seven days a week 24/7 to help you avoid the cost and hassle of secondary damages.  We will help make it "Like it never even happened."

Storm Damage Can Happen Anywhere

9/26/2022 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA), “Approximately seventy-five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding.” NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States as:

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the U.S., and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).

When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO® Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore Professionals can help. They can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP), or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in business as soon as possible.

Your local SERVPRO® Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore Professionals are ready to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO: Your Experts in Commercial Water Damage

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, MO, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.

Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration

Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.

Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply store. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible.

Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particleboard, carpets, or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at the minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present.

Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning, and possibly restructuring. Water-damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particleboard and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

Services You Can Count On in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, MO

You can depend on SERVPRO to provide reasonable prices for commercial damages and other services in the Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore area. Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage, and storm damage. We also assist with mold remediation, and we're qualified to provide cleaning and building services. Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration.

Understand Our Terms and Lingo

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore is always "Here to Help". We know the jargon can be confusing so we usually try to break it down as easily as we can out in the field, but we know that our customers like to stay informed. Here are some common terms used in the field with their definition so you can understand better what is happening in your home or business.

Anti-Microbials: A substance, mechanism, or condition that inhibits the growth or existence of an organism. Commonly applied after water damage to prevent mold from developing.

Fire Damage Recovery: The process of restoring and recovering property and belongings after a fire. The objectives include minimizing existing damage, damage mitigation, structure stabilization, soot & odor removal, and reconstruction.

Fungi: The unicellular or multicellular eukaryotic/ DNA organisms embracing a large group of microflora including molds, mildews, yeasts, mushrooms, rusts, and smuts.

HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

HEPA Filter: High-efficiency particulate air filter, a specialized filter capable of removing 99.7% of particles. Commonly used in mold or odor job sites. HEPA Vacuum or HEPA air scrubber. 

Masking Agents: Designed to prevent or remove heightened awareness of odors by providing a fragrance, which is stronger and more pleasant to smell while the source of the odor is being eliminated.

Smoke Damage Removal: Neutralizing or removing smoke odors that linger after fires.

Smoke Particles: Smoke is composed of gases / sometimes aerosols, and airborne solids. Dry wood, natural fibers, and paper all produce small non-smearing materials. Plastic, foam, and rubber (polymers) produce large easily smeared residues.

How to Reduce the Chance of a Kitchen Fire

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Though fires can start in any area of the home, many fires often begin in kitchens, and kitchen fires can cause widespread damage to homes. Fortunately, there are various tips you can follow to help to reduce the chance of a kitchen fire occurring in your home.

1. Don't Leave Cooking Food Unattended

When cooking, it can be easy to become distracted. Though you may be tempted to leave your kitchen while cooking, however, this can result in a fire. Items left on a stovetop can burn and catch fire in a short period of time if high heat is used, and if you are out of the room when the fire begins, you may not be able to stop the fire from getting out of control. For these reasons, it's generally best to stay in the kitchen when cooking.

2. Clean Your Kitchen Often

When it comes to fire prevention tips, cleaning your kitchen can be beneficial. If grease has spilled on your stovetop or in your oven, or if you use a dirty, greasy pan, a fire can start quickly. A grease fire can be particularly dangerous because it can spread at an accelerated rate and cause major damage to your home. Cleaning your kitchen often, however, can reduce the likelihood of grease causing a fire.

3. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

Though a flame in a kitchen doesn't necessarily spell disaster if it is quickly extinguished, fires that aren't quickly controlled can cause devastation to homes. If a home has been affected by major fire damage, many homeowners find it helpful to contact emergency restoration services. However, the sooner you are able to extinguish a fire, the less likely it is that your home will sustain major damage. Having an ABC fire extinguisher (an extinguisher that can put out fires caused by trash, grease, or electricity) in your kitchen can be wise.

Since kitchen fires are incredibly common, knowing tips to prevent this type of fire can be useful to homeowners. Preventative methods can include remaining in your kitchen when cooking, frequently cleaning your kitchen, and keeping a fire extinguisher in your kitchen.

SERVPRO Professionals are the Storm Damage Experts

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Quick Response and High Standards Will Leave you Satisfied after Remediation

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs in an already anxiety-provoking situation. SERVPRO delivers the help you need swiftly even when a local disaster is widespread as we are able to call upon a network of over 1,650 franchises nationwide to respond if the need is great.

Storm damage in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind, and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues you face. Choosing our company puts in motion a vast support system, but our local ownership means you will receive a personalized approach to your particular situation, efficiently returning your home back to its pre-storm condition just “Like it never even happened.”  

Placing your trust in SERVPRO for your storm damage needs will reap benefits that less qualified companies simply cannot deliver. We use state-of-the-art equipment to clean, repair, and restore your home and in the process, we also restore your and your family’s peace of mind. Our technicians are highly trained and qualified. We also work closely with your insurance company, ensuring that all the work necessary is approved and compensated according to the terms of your policy. Our high standards and relentless drive to do the job on time while meeting local specifications means you and your family will quickly return to the quiet enjoyment of your house and neighborhood. We are not satisfied until you are happily back in your restored dwelling. 

Once you make sure that your family is safe after a major storm, your first call should be to SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore. Call (816)884-2240 24/7 and begin the road to recovery by scheduling an inspection with our storm damage experts.

When Storms or Floods Hit, SERVPRO is Ready!

8/22/2022 (Permalink)

When Storms or Floods hit Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, SERVPRO is ready! 

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster.  We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,800 franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 1(816)884-2240

Important Facts About Mold Growth

8/22/2022 (Permalink)

Everyone Should Know These Three Facts About Mold

It always pays to have a little bit of knowledge about certain subjects, and knowing a few facts about mold growth is a good idea. This information may help your business prevent the growth of mold, as well as help to rectify the situation if mold is found. Everyone should know these three facts about mold:

• Mold is a naturally occurring fungus that is found just about everywhere in small amounts
• Mold thrives in damp conditions of high humidity
• Mold can degrade indoor air quality and cause health effects for many people
  
  

A few other facts are relevant here. Mold often exudes a musty odor. Finally, mold spores are microscopic and can be spread throughout a building through the heating and cooling system.

Proven Steps for Mold Cleanup

When mold growth is discovered at your business in Harrisonville, Belton, or Raymore, it should be looked into immediately. Calling in a mold mitigation team that is Faster to Any Disaster is the place to begin. Each situation is unique, but the process for mold remediation is similar in most respects. It begins with an inspection and damage assessment and looks for instances of water damage, which often paved the way for mold to grow in a commercial building. These initial measures are followed by mold containment and air filtration and then the removal and cleaning of materials affected by mold. The final stages include content cleaning and restoration.

Positive Results

It is essentially impossible to remove every last vestige of mold spores from a building. However, with the right techniques and equipment, mold growth can be stopped to the point where it does not pose a problem for employees and customers. The removal of mold colonies will also address the appearance of the workplace, and the musty odor will be gone, too. With a better understanding of mold, your company can deal with the issue effectively.

What To Do After a Storm Damages Your Home

8/20/2022 (Permalink)

You hear the wind blowing and the rain pounding on your window panes, and you hope your home will remain untouched by the storm. Unfortunately, this is not the case. A tree falls on your roof, and water pours into your home, soaking your carpets and covering your hardwood floors. Here's how to stem the tide of storm damage in the event's immediate aftermath.

1. Document Damage Before Attempting Immediate Repairs

If you are planning to submit a claim to your insurance company for the damages, you will want to record them prior to attempting any immediate repairs. Make a list of damaged items, and take photos or videos of each.

2. Make Immediate Repairs Only To Prevent Further Damage to Your Home

Take the following steps when attempting immediate repairs or cleanup:

• Cover leaking roofs with a tarp to prevent more rainfall from entering the home.
• Pull up a wet carpet to prevent mold and move it to a dry location. 
• Throw away all perishable food that has spoiled.

Make sure all articles being removed from the home are documented on the inventory list of damaged items.

3. Exercise Caution If You're Staying in a Damaged Home 

To restore lost electricity in your home, use generators outside, away from windows and doors. Make sure your sewer system is working before flushing toilets, using water stored previously for this function if necessary. Open windows and run fans inside your home to circulate air and aid the drying process.

You may also choose to contact a company that can perform emergency restoration services in your home. If so, keep receipts for services provided, as well as for any purchases made for immediate repairs, such as a tarp for the leaking roof.

Hopefully, your home will never be subjected to storm damage. If it is, however, these storm tips can get you started on the road to recovery and get your life back to normal as quickly as possible.

Flood Risks

8/19/2022 (Permalink)

Are you in a flood zone?

If you’re in the process of buying a house or you’re looking for a new homeowners insurance policy, you might be familiar with what a flood zone is. If you don’t know what they are, you might want to start reading about them.

Zoning for Floods?

A flood zone is an area in a specific geographical space that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has determined has at least some risk of flooding. There are four primary types of zones, which correlate to the severity or category of excessive water events that can occur in that area.

• Moderate to Low-Risk Areas
• High-Risk Areas
• High Risk – Coastal Areas
• Undetermined Risk Areas

How to Find Your Zone

Each area’s zones are depicted on a community's Flood Insurance Rate Map, also known as FIRM, which can be found online at https://www.fema.gov/flood-insurance-rate-map-firm. You can also contact your local municipality or look on their website, most cities will have zoning information available online. You can try searching for the term “flood elevation certificate” for faster results. 

Some people may think that these zones can only be found next to a large body of water or along a river or stream, but that’s not the case. Houses that are nowhere near a body of water can experience a flood if there’s a large rainstorm. 

Emergency Preparedness

Knowing what kind of flood zone you live in can also be helpful for storage options and emergency preparedness. If you live in a high-risk zone, for example, you probably don’t want to put boxes directly on the floor, and you might want to increase the number of your emergency supplies. 

If you weren’t aware that your home is potentially at risk for a flood, and a storm causes water-related damage, you should contact a storm damage specialist in your area to determine your best course of action and get the damage repaired as quickly as possible. 

ERPs and Why They Are Important

8/19/2022 (Permalink)

Being a business owner can have many responsibilities, and you may have to take on multiple roles.

In most cases, disaster is the last thing you think about, but every business owner, regardless of how new or old your business is, should have a plan and guide for what to do in the event of a disaster.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore offers a free community service called the "Emergency Ready Plan", or an ERP.

ERPs are handy little guides that we make at SERVPRO that contain basic information regarding your property, who owns the property, and where your emergency shut-off locations are.

We document and photograph, where your electrical, water, and gas shut-offs, are, as well as your sprinkler system and security system. We also have the contacts for those utility companies in the event that you must make contact.

Key contacts are also listed in the ERP, such as the owner, the insurance agent for the property, the SERVPRO representative, and the managers of the building.

The emergency contacts and services page has the fire department and police department's emergency and non-emergency numbers as well, that way, if contact is needed, you know where to find all those phone numbers and contact points.

It's very beneficial to have an ERP because although the business owner might know where everything is and who to contact, your employees might not know. Having a guide like this can help so much if the business owner is not present.

ERPs are very convenient as well, we are able to provide a paper copy, and we can provide a digital version on the Ready Plan app! This makes ERPs very easy to access in times of need.

When you run a business, it's good to prepare for not just the next day's shift, but for the things that happen unexpectedly.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore is always here to help!

A Company With Over 50 Years of Reliable Service

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

A Brief History of SERVPRO

SERVPRO Industries was initially launched as a painting business in 1967 in Sacramento, California by Ted and Doris Isaacson. With a background in cleaning and restoration, the business was transformed into a franchisor of cleanup and restoration specialists. After selling its first franchise in 1969, SERVPRO continued to grow, developing a highly regarded national brand.

SERVPRO relocated the corporate headquarters from Sacramento to Gallatin, Tennessee in 1988. At the time of the relocation, SERVPRO consisted of 647 franchises. The company sold its 1,000th franchise in 2000.

To accommodate the growth, SERVPRO headquarters moved to a bigger facility in 2005. In 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2019, SERVPRO was listed as one of the top Tennessee workplaces in The Tennessean.

The Blackstone Group acquired a majority stake in SERVPRO Industries, LLC in March 2019. The Isaacsons still maintain a small portion of the stock. Rick Isaacson was promoted from EVP to Chief Executive Officer of SERVPRO after Randy Isaacson and Sue Steen retired. 

Today, SERVPRO has more than 1,700 franchises in the United States and Canada. The brand, built around a family, has now grown to employ thousands in a bigger family. The SERVPRO team is here to help. Call us if you need anything at (816) 884-2240.

What To Know About IICRC Certifications

6/20/2022 (Permalink)

The IICRC, or Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, sets the industry standards for disaster remediation companies. The focus of this company is to continuously improve the standards of operation for this type of work. Although headquartered in Nevada, they shape work standards everywhere, including in Harrisonville, MO.

Standards

While the IICRC is not affiliated with the United States government, it works closely with the American National Standards Institute which monitors different industries' standards. This means that professionals who have this type of certification are highly knowledgeable about the remediation industry. This organization is responsible for establishing restoration work's terminology, technology, techniques, and safety protocols. Creating certain requirements improves the safety of businesses and customers dealing with remediation work. This is critical for ensuring public health. The areas it sets the standards for include:

• Textile floor coverings
• Stone restoration
• Hard floor coverings
• Upholstery cleaning
• Water damage restoration
• Crime scene cleanup
• Mold contamination assessment
• HVAC cleaning
• Fire and smoke damage restoration
  
  

Certifications

The various areas that have standards set by the IICRC all have a corresponding certification. In other words, a mitigation technician will have a mitigation certificate. As a business owner, it is especially important to ask for verification that the technicians you hire have these. This ensures that your business is in good hands after a disaster. 

Maintaining Certification

After technicians complete a course and pass the exam, they are issued a certification card. To keep this certification, you must earn a certain number of continuing education credits every two years. These credits come from additional related courses that you pass the exam for. 

Becoming a professional in any field requires ensuring that you are properly trained and certified. The restoration industry is no exception. If you are a business owner looking for a qualified remediation company, ensure they have a certification from this organization. This will help you get the highest quality of work available.

How to Keep Mold and Moisture Out of Your HVAC System

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

Tips and Tricks From SERVPRO to Keeping Mold and Moisture Out Of Your HVAC System

In the warm summer heat, it's easy to build up moisture; especially when it gets sticky, muggy, and humid. When this happens, you naturally crank the A.C., reach for something cold, and kick back in your lazy chair. The problem is, when you're relaxing and enjoying the nice cold breeze, mold is spreading through your ducts, vents, and HVAC system, leaving a nasty haze of mold that you can smell all over the house. If you're running a business, your customers could smell it too- which is why you should always call our service professionals to deal with the problem as soon as possible. 

How Does Mold Get in The HVAC System? 

Mold damage is no laughing matter. Mold, fungus, and other bacteria are in their perfect environment when they're trapped in your HVAC system. It's dark, warm, moist, closed in, and humid, meaning that spores can grow practically unabated. You'll notice more and more scents as heat and humidity are generated from outside and pulled through your ducts. 

When this moist air gets into your air system, it collects within and above your HVAC units. At this point, the spores of mold and other fungi easily rise through the air, setting up colonies as your condenser forces them up through the duct system. These aren't the only cases of mold that we've seen at SERVPRO; we've seen mold stick to people's clothes or shoes, and it's all brought inside by excess humidity caused by rainfall. 

Here Are a Few Tips on How to Remove Mold From Your HVAC System 

1. Continue to clean and maintain your HVAC system, even when you aren't using it. Check the ducts for wet spots, and regularly check and maintain your HVAC filter. 
2. Double-check the drainage systems on your HVAC for mold. Allow for "dry-out" areas where the drainage comes out to prevent excess moisture. 
3. Get dehumidifiers for your home. They are ideal for collecting excess humidity, and they help with the temperature inside your house, too. 
4. Always insulate your pipes, walls, and ceilings. Use caulking for cracks to control cracks and leaks. 
5. Contrary to common beliefs, keep your windows closed when it's hot outside. Humidity, dust, and dampness easily travel inside.

Firework Safety

6/11/2022 (Permalink)

A holiday weekend like the Fourth of July brings much fun, but can also lead to disaster if the right precautions are not taken. Here are a few quick and helpful tips to stay safe and enjoy your holiday. 

• Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
• Never light fireworks indoors
• Keep fireworks away from houses and flammable material 
• Never point or throw fireworks toward another person
• Only light one device at a time
• Maintain a safe distance after lighting a firework

Although sparklers are a simple and fun firework for kids to use, they can still be quite dangerous if not handled properly. Sparklers can quickly ignite clothing, and children have received severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet. Sparkles are not advised to children under the age of five unless accompanied by an adult. Consider using safer alternatives, such as glow sticks, confetti poppers, or colored streamers for children when trying to celebrate safely this Fourth of July!

What To Do After a Flood

6/5/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding can take a huge toll on business owners as they try to deal with cleaning and restoring their buildings after a flood occurs. While the first inclination might be to start cleaning the area and salvaging whatever can be saved, there are several hazards to be aware of when entering an area affected by flood water. Before doing anything after a flood occurs, quickly take the following steps.

Determine Safety

Your first concern when addressing a flood in your business is to determine whether it is safe or not to enter the area. It is very important to consider if the water might be contaminated. If dealing with a sewage backup or water from a nearby river, the water is considered Category 3 water. Also called black water, this type of flood water contains contaminants that can potentially cause harm to people or pets nearby.

Call for Help

If a lot of storm damage or water damage has occurred, it will be nearly impossible to effectively handle the situation on your own. Quickly get in contact with a water damage cleanup company to help mitigate the damage and restore your building to its original condition. If dealing with Category 3 water or another hazardous situation, do not enter the flooded area until the specialists say it is safe to do so.

Dry the Area 

If you have determined there are no safety concerns, you can try to dry some of the water in the area while waiting for help to arrive. Depending on where the flooding is located, you can try mopping the area, moving belongings and furniture, or hanging damp fabrics,

Knowing how to act in the case of a flood can help keep everyone in your building safe and minimize the amount of damage the flood water causes. While you want to act quickly, make sure to analyze the situation first and get the help you need.

Drip, Drip, Drip: How To Tell If Your Shower Is Leaking

6/4/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can be costly to the unsuspecting homeowner. In the fast pace of a daily routine, it can be difficult to remember to check for potential damage from something as mundane as a bathtub leak or shower pan leak. However, the earlier a leak is caught, the higher the chance that all you need is a simple repair. 

How To Look for Damage

The first thing to do when looking for damage from a leak is to visually inspect the area. If you suspect a shower or bathtub leak, look for obvious signs of water damage:

• Look for any obvious cracks or damage to the shower tile or the bathtub itself where it looks like water could be escaping.
• Peeling or lose trim can indicate potential damage from repeated water exposure. 
• Check the faucet or shower head by running water for a short time and then turning the water off, observing any unusual water flow where the fixtures are attached to the wall. 
• You may also be able to see issues with the threshold of a shower while the shower is on, such as water escaping when the shower doors are closed. 
• Any stains in the ceiling directly underneath a bathroom are a definite red flag and need to be addressed as soon as possible.
  
  

What This Means for You

If you find any of these signs of possible leakage, it’s time to contact an emergency restoration professional. An experienced professional can not only prevent further structural damage from occurring around the bathtub but can also take steps to eliminate any mold or mildew buildup from trapped water. 

Just remember, if you find any signs of a possible shower or bathtub leak in your bathroom, you can rest assured that a restoration professional is Here to Help. Enlisting the aid of experienced professionals can help you get your home back to normal as quickly and as smoothly as possible.

Water Damage Categories and What They Mean

6/4/2022 (Permalink)

What Category of Water Causes the Flooding?

When your business suffers a broken pipe, you may need to schedule a restoration service to survey the damage and conduct a water pipe repair. The exact nature of the restoration and the steps followed may depend on what category of water caused the flooding. Here's what you may need to know.

1. White Water

Uncontaminated water is usually called white water and often comes from a broken pipe or water main. This is water that is usually considered safe for drinking or bathing, and may easily be cleaned up without worrying about sanitation issues.

2. Grey Water

The professional performing your water pipe repair may categorize any water that comes from an appliance or area that may have come in contact with minor contaminants, such as soap or cleaning chemicals, like grey water. This water is not safe for human consumption but is not carrying harmful contaminants such as those that might come from a sewer-related issue.

3. Black Water

The black water category is usually used when referring to any water that carries sewer contamination such as that from a flooded toilet. This may also refer to flood waters from storms or overflowing rivers as it's difficult to tell exactly what sources such water may have come into contact with. It's highly recommended that a professional be called any time water damage is suspected to fall under the black category, as specific sanitation and safety steps need to be followed.

Flooding is often categorized into three types. The category the flood damage falls under may influence the steps necessary when conducting a water pipe repair at your place of business. It's important to understand which category the water that causes any damage and your business come from so that the appropriate restoration steps may be taken. If you have any questions it's best to talk to your water damage restoration professional.

How to Maintain Your Furnace

6/4/2022 (Permalink)

Keep You Furnace Properly Maintained

As soon as the midwest weather turns from Fall to Winter, you may be ready to turn your furnace on. If you use a furnace, you should be sure to keep it properly maintained to reduce the risk of a house fire that could lead to lost belongings and damage that requires soot and fire cleaning. To ensure that your unit is working you should remember to do the following.

1. Clean or Replace Filters Regularly

When you are using a furnace to heat your home, it is important that you keep the filters clean and replace them when necessary. It is recommended, with a standard filter to be replaced every 30 days. When filters are not regularly replaced, filters can become overly clogged with dust, dirt, and allergens. When this occurs it does not allow your furnace to breath leaving them backed up causing lack of air flow and often lead to overheating the furnace to enter the air during heating. Overheating the furnace may start a fire. While cleaning your filters may seem like a nuisance, it is a safer option than experiencing a house fire. House fires typically take time to clean the effected areas of soot and particles that contaminate the air. 

2. Inspect the Unit Before Use

If it has been a while since your furnace has been used, you should inspect the unit before operating it for long periods of time. Make sure that all of the components are clean and working correctly. You should also check that the furnace is receiving power or, if powered by fuel, has enough oil to operate correctly. 

3. Hire a Professional

The best way to ensure that your device is operating as intended is to call in professionals to inspect and maintain the unit for you. They will have the experience needed to locate any problems before it becomes a bigger issue. To reduce your chances of fire and the consequent need for fire and smoke cleaning, you should have your furnace cleaned and inspected once a year, specifically before switching the furnace on in the winter months.

While properly maintaining your furnace is a good way to reduce your chances of a fire, sometimes unexpected problems arise. If a fire occurs in your residential or commercial property, a fire restoration service will be able to do fire and soot cleaning and address any repairs to get your home to its previous condition.

3 Steps To Repair a Roof After Storm Damage

6/4/2022 (Permalink)

Roof Repair

When storms damage your home’s roof, the idea of a roof repair can seem overwhelming. However, understanding what repairing a roof entails may make you feel more at ease about the process.

1. Assessment

Storms can affect various parts of a roof, and in order to know how to proceed in the repair process, it’s often necessary to assess the damaged roof. Hail and wind damage can cause shingles to crack or even blow away entirely, and the extent of the damage will determine what will happen next. In order to receive a thorough and accurate assessment, it can sometimes be helpful to employ storm damage and restoration professionals.

2. Mitigation

Part of the roof repair process generally includes mitigating the damage. After an assessment has identified roof damage, tarps and board-up methods are often used to prevent the roof from further deteriorating. In addition to preventing the exterior of the home from sustaining more damage, it can also be useful to take measurements to protect the interior of the home. Roofs that have been affected by storms may cause water to become trapped in the home’s ceilings. Removing water from the ceiling in a timely manner can help to minimize the damage to the interior of the home.

3. Restoration

After an assessment and mitigation, the roof is restored. Any debris that is on or around the roof is first removed. Then, individual shingles that have been cracked or that have blown away due to strong winds can be replaced. If widespread damage has occurred to your roof, however, it may be necessary to replace the roof entirely to ensure the home is properly protected.

Knowing what is involved with a roof repair can help make the repair and restoration process less stressful. The repair process often involves the assessment of the roof, mitigating the damage, and restoration.

Water Damage Restoration Tips For Your House After A Flood

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration Tips For Your House After A Flood

A few years back, homes, business properties, and personal items devastated by flood water were considered lost. Today, with innovations in technology, the losses due to flood damage can now be restored to their former state. The process is not easy, it requires extensive mopping up and drying of the property after severe water damage. 

Flood water in-home or business can damage your walls, floors, carpets, and other personal belongings too. Extracting the water is impossible without proper equipment while sun drying does not guarantee your assets' restoration to their former state before the incident. There is also an additional risk the water in the home might have damaged electrical equipment or wires. Anyone tampering with either could be in for horrible electrocution during the water cleanup and restoration. 

For these reasons, water cleanup and restoration are best handled by professionals. They have to requisite experience, state-of-the-art equipment, and techniques to do the job properly and offer mitigation against further damage. If the renovation job requires extensive work, promptness in beginning the works is paramount. The less the time frame between flood damage and refurbishment, the greater the ease of reinstating a property or item to its preloss state. There are four fundamental steps to follow with any renovation job after water damage:

1. Removal of the Flood Water

The first important step to restoring a property after damage from water in home or business premise is removing the stagnant water. Often, a submersible pump is used to remove the water accumulation in various structures around the premises. 

2. Moisture Mapping

It is crucial to get an idea of the extent of water damage and take the first mitigation steps against mold growth. The step uses detection equipment to obtain and appropriately map the moisture values on the property. Properly trained technicians use infrared and digital imaging to determine the damage extent.

3. Mold Inspection and Removal

After moisture mapping, the house will need to be prepared to repel mold and mildew. Any residual stagnant water in business or homestead leads to a favorable habitat for the fungi to thrive thus mitigation against it is essential. Water cleanup professionals make use of special detergents to sterilize the area and make the surroundings unfavorable for mold growth. Some renovation firms take advantage of deodorization and ventilation during this step to remove any airborne contaminants and lingering, unpleasant odors. 

4. Water Drying

This last step ensures the property is completely dry and humidity is brought back to its normal state after flood damage. There are various water drying techniques and the one used will depend on the situation’s severity. These techniques include:

• Air Movers- They help dry the establishment by controlling humidity and promoting air circulation. Working in sections, the air movers remove liquids from all porous materials including carpets and wood. Any remaining water in-home or business premises is left for more sophisticated machines. 

• Dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air and help extract any remaining water in business or home environments. Broadly, professionals use either desiccant or refrigerant dehumidifiers. Desiccant dehumidifiers operate by cooling the air to make it reduce its ability to retain water. As a result, condensation occurs around the equipment’s cooling coils. Applying these machines on a large scale promptly extracts excess humidity from the air leaving no more water in businesses or households and thus no further water damage. The particular type of equipment, however, depends on the tired company and how extensive the restoration job is. 

With the right professionals, successful water cleanup is possible, and any damage from water in business or home establishments can be fixed. Each job, however, is unique and requires prompt, proper investigation. This helps come up with a plan based on the steps above to restore the property after water damage. 

The Different Causes of Commercial Water Damage

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Work Place Water Damage is Restored by SERVPRO

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms. 

However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings.  

1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems

Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment

This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency. 

3. Broken pipes and plumbing

Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result. 

4. Backed up sewer lines

This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. 

Fire Escape Planning for Your Business

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

An emergency plan is not required for all businesses, however, OSHA recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing a plan. 

Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan. 

Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked, well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover and conduct a head count. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.

What Can You Do To Fix Moldy Clothes?

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

The reason clothing is so susceptible to mold growth is not just because of the mold-inviting circumstances within the laundry room. Generally, when it is worn, clothing collects sweat and skin cells, as well as dirt and other forms of moisture and organic material that mold loves to feast on. Then, it is placed in the laundry hamper and usually sits for days before it it is finally washed. This scenario is typical and may not result in a noticeable mold infestation, but should the soiled laundry be allowed to fester long enough, a mildew smell may be present, as well as visible signs of green, blue, gray, black, or sometimes even white mold on clothes.

Another scenario is becoming more common due to busy lifestyles and poor habits. The quick development of mold on clothes after washing may be surprising to some, but it is quite an ordinary occurrence for those with overwhelmed schedules or those who are vulnerable to procrastination because they often forget to remove clothing from the washing machine once the cycle is finished. As time passes, this leads to the rapid proliferation of mildew and mold on clothes after washing, due to the remaining moisture. Neglecting to put the wet clothes in the dryer for a few hours is not what makes mold grow. Neglecting the clothes in the washer for 6 hours or longer–sometimes a day or even a few days–is the problem. Before too long, a mildew smell will be detected in the washer and clothing. Some assume this is the residue of soap, and while that may be true to some extent, the fact of the matter is that most soaps contain lard and other organic (even synthetic) materials that mold can thrive off of. The smell is not necessarily the residue of soap, but an indication that mold is producing a secondary metabolite–the mildew smell–from consuming that soap.

What is a natural detergent to kill mold?  Here is what you will need.

• Two 5 oz. organic castile soap bars (naturally scented with lavender or peppermint is great but non-scented works just the same)
• 3 cups of washing soda (no, it’s not the same as baking soda)
• 2 cups of borax
• 30 drops of certified pure lavender essential oil (optional but highly advisable for a mold killing laundry detergent)

Once you have all the materials, this is what to do. 

1. Cut the castile soap bars into small pieces or chunks. (This is crucial to avoid damaging the food processor.)
2. Place the cut castile soap pieces or chunks in the food processor bowl. Pulse the soap on high until what remains are large crumbs.
3. Add the washing soda to the food processor and pulse for 1 minute. (After pulsing, all the ingredients should be in powder form and well-combined. If not, try running the food processor again and then mixing with a spoon.)
4. Empty the washing soda and castile soap into the storage container. Add the borax and blend well with a spoon.
5. Add the essential oils of choice (optional but beneficial) and be sure to mix well.

Do not place this mixture into the drawer or dispenser, place it directly in with the laundry.

How a $10-$20 Investment Can Save Your Life and Property

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

Change your batteries to help prevent a fire in your home.

The Power of Smoke Alarms

While smoke alarms may seem loud and obnoxious and go off at annoying times, they can mean the difference between life and death when a fire does break out on your property. A smoke alarm is the cheapest way to limit and avoid fire damage to your property. Believe it or not, 60% of fire deaths occur in properties that do not have active and working smoke alarms. You need to realize that fire on your property is entirely possible and should be treated as such. Make sure your family, possessions, or company are protected using a smoke alarm.

The type of smoke detector in your home will determine how and when batteries need to be replaced. There are three main types of alarms to be aware of: 

• Alkaline battery alarm
• Lithium battery alarm
• Wired smoke alarm

1. Alkaline Battery Alarms

Many smoke alarms are powered by 9-volt alkaline batteries or even AA batteries. DO NOT just wait for the batteries to run out. Instead, replace them yearly or even more often. Doing so keeps your alarm loud and responsive to any threats of fire.  

2. Lithium Battery Alarms

Lithium batteries last much longer than alkaline batteries. However, you cannot simply replace the battery when the time comes. Rather, you will need to replace the entire detector after ten years. Make sure to keep up on this battery type since they give a shorter warning time before dying than other alarm types, and since it dies quickly, you will be given no warning of a fire threat.

3. Wired Smoke Alarms 

Many people opt for wired smoke alarms since they are reliable and reduce fire damage caused by accidental shocks. It is embarrassing calling in a fire restoration specialist because a fire started while changing out an old smoke detector! To avoid this, a wired smoke alarm doesn’t run on an expirable battery. However, you should absolutely put in a backup battery and replace it yearly.

Regardless of the type of smoke alarm, it is a good practice to replace the entire alarm every 10 years. This ensures that there isn’t a mechanical problem within the alarm itself and you always have the newest and most up-to-date technology protecting what matters most. DO NOT wait until you start to hear chirping from your smoke alarm to change your batteries! Keep your home and family safe by following these recommendations.

If you have any questions about fire or smoke cleanup or restoration, SERVPRO is here to help. Call (816) 246-5566 or contact us HERE.

Oops, I Forgot to Put My Hose Away Last Fall!

5/14/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO if you experience water in your home.

How five minutes could save you 100% or more on indoor flooding

Spring is here and the weather is getting nicer! It’s the time of year when many of us want to get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and possibly try out our green thumb with some new flowers or shrubs. If you left your garden hose outside and attached to your house or business through the winter, you could be in for a bad surprise. Frozen outdoor water spigots are notorious for freezing over the winter especially when your hose is left attached and then leaking inside the structure only during the time your outdoor water faucet is in the "on" position in the Springtime. To prevent this situation, here are a couple of tips.

Disconnect Hoses in the Fall

First, keep an eye on the weather in the fall, and before freezing temps hit, disconnect your garden hoses and bring them indoors. They will last longer if kept inside during the winter and reduce your chances of a frozen/leaking faucet. Doing this should automatically drain any remaining water in your water faucet as long as it is correctly installed with a level or slightly downward slope as it leaves the structure.

I forgot and left my hose attached through winter - now what? Read on! This next section about checking pressure is a great place to start. 

Check for Pressure

Before using your water faucet, attach a garden hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle to your outdoor water faucet/spigot and turn on the water at the faucet. Have a friend or family member inside your basement listen for running water as you turn it on outside, and then check the spigot inside and outside for leaks. If your spigot is in a finished portion of your basement, observe to see if the water pressure is weak at the end of the hose. It is possible that the pipe has burst and leaked inside where you can't observe it. If you come home to a new indoor water fountain or swimming pool you don't remember having installed, turn off the water and call SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore immediately at (816) 246-5566 to help reverse the damage and help make it "Like it never even happened."

If you have any questions, let us know! SERVPRO of Harrisonville/ Belton/ Raymore is always here to help.

Tips for your Home after a Flood

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Tips For Your Home After A Flood

If your home has been affected by a flood, here are some tips to help you get started with the cleanup and recovery process:

1. Make sure the electricity is turned off before entering the home, and do not use any electrical appliances or equipment until a professional electrician has inspected them.

2. Wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves, boots, and a mask to prevent exposure to bacteria and mold.

3. Remove any standing water as quickly as possible, using pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or a mop and bucket. Open windows and doors to improve ventilation.

4. Dispose of any contaminated items, including carpeting, padding, and furniture that has absorbed water. Clean and disinfect any salvageable items.

5. Thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces, including walls, floors, and countertops. Use a bleach solution (1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water) to disinfect surfaces.

6. Dry out the home as quickly as possible, using fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows. This will help prevent mold growth.

7. Check for any structural damage to the home, including cracks in the foundation, walls, or roof. Have any damage repaired as soon as possible.

8. Contact your insurance company and document all damage and losses. Keep receipts for any expenses related to the cleanup and repair.

9. Consider hiring a professional restoration company to help with the cleanup and restoration process.

10. Take steps to prevent future flooding, such as installing flood barriers, raising electrical outlets and appliances off the ground, and keeping gutters and drains clear of debris.

Think you’re cold? What about those frozen pipes?

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

BRRRRRR!  Baby, it's cold outside!  Winter is upon us and while we may look forward to building our first snowman, sledding with our children, or sitting by a toasty fire, frozen pipes can become a reality as well.  Prevent freezing of pipes by following these recommendations:

• Make sure you drain water from a water sprinkler system or a swimming pool.  There are typically manufacturing directions on how to do so.  
• Drain and detach any water hoses from exterior spigots. 
• Check your basement, crawl space, attic, and garage for any uninsulated pipes. Make sure to keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines located there. 
• Check under kitchen and bathroom cabinets as well.  Open the cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the plumbing.  Consider installing specific insulation for pipes. 
• Let water drip from a faucet served by exposed pipes since this will help prevent them from freezing. 
• If you will be gone from your home during cold weather, don't allow your thermostat below 55 degrees.   

What happens if despite all your good intentions, you suspect a frozen pipe?    

• If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, chances are good that your pipe is frozen.  It will most likely be located near an exterior wall or where your water service comes into your home.
• Apply heat to the pipe with an electric heating pad, an electric hair dryer or a portable space heater (maker sure nothing flammable is close by).  You can also wrap the pipes in towels soaked with warm water.  DO NOT use a blowtorch, kerosene, propane heater, for any other open flame device.
• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and water begins to melt, it will then begin to flow through the frozen area.  It will also help to melt additional ice in the pipe. 
• If you cannot thaw the pipe, aren't able to locate the frozen area, or you can't get access to it, call a licensed plumber.
• Be sure to check all other faucets in your home because chances are if you have one frozen pipe, most likely you have others as well. 

Finally, if the "dreaded pipe break" should happen, call us at 816-884-2240. We will respond quickly and get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Importance of Pretesting for Water Categories

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage Claim

Anyone who has experienced flooding is likely familiar with the various colors associated with floodwaters: white/clear, gray, and black. These colors are often tied to a category and a classification that specifies the number of safety precautions necessary and the level of mitigation and cleanout. When filing a claim, it is critical to know the category and classification because each ascending level impacts the severity and costs of damage. Therefore, pretesting is used to designate the category and classification of water to ensure that claims and restorative preparations are efficient and accurate.

1. Category One

When filing an insurance claim, category one, or white/clear, water is the least expensive to remedy. The source is sanitary, meaning that there are no harmful bacteria or sewage present. While this category can be a relief, it is still necessary to act quickly to remove the water and repair the damage. If the water sits for too long, it can be contaminated by other items in the area, causing an elevation in category or classification.

2. Category Two

If the water is found to be category two, or greywater, through pretesting, then it is best that you do not go near it. This result indicates that there are organic and inorganic substances in the water and that you may become ill if it is consumed or touched.

3. Category Three

Category three, or black water, is the most dangerous water. The level of contamination includes sewage, chemicals, bacteria, and possible toxins. It is likely that your insurance agent and company will recommend a disaster restoration specialist in the Harrisonville/ Belton/ Raymore area who will probably seal the space as they work to remove the water safely.

Insurance claims require accurate representations of the damage to property. Pretesting provides those assessments for insurers by providing definitive information about the category and classification of the water and damage to your home.

SERVPRO helps storm victims on the East Coast

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lee's Summit / Raytown / East Kansas City is proud to be a storm team member for all 4 of the SERVPRO storm teams. Recently SERVPRO of Lee's Summit / Raytown / East Kansas City spent over a month in Washington DC and the Boston area helping victims of burst pipes and ice dams. Traveling for the storm teams is very hard work with no time off and back-to-back 12-16 hours days.  Our crews were able to help more than 30 families and businesses get their lives back together, and that is the greatest part about doing storm work.  Each storm event is different, but the one thing that remains the same is the appreciation of the customer when they know that help has arrived! 

Emergency Board Up

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

Emergency Board Up Services

If your home or business incurs storm or fire damage resulting in an opening in your building you may be in need of emergency board-up services. Any openings in the structure need to be properly boarded up to protect the building from the weather and illegal entry. Your insurance policy also requires you to be proactive in protecting your home or business after any type of damage has occurred, otherwise, the insurance company could account for any further/secondary damage to the structure as negligence.

Not every situation requires the most extensive board up that the U.S Fire Administration have in their board up procedure manual, such as after a fire where the entire home is destroyed and is considered a complete loss. While each emergency board up is different, let’s take a look at how to properly board up a structure after the damage has caused an opening in the building.

Determining How Much Protection Is Needed

1. Openings in the basement, first floor doors, windows, and any point of entry accessible from a porch, fire escape, or other potential climbing points require additional security measures. These openings should be barricaded with plywood, 2x4s, bolts, and nails.
2. Openings that are at least 10′ from ground level which is not accessible from a porch, fire escape, roof, or other climbing points can be secured with nails in each brace, and every 12″ around the perimeter. For these openings the plywood should be fitted so that it rests snugly against the exterior frame, butting up to the siding on wood frame buildings and up to the brickwork on brick buildings. It may be necessary to remove the staff bead so this fit can be flush and tight.

Boarding Up

1. Cut plywood to fit over the window and door openings, flush with the outside of the molding. Note: For buildings with a metal door and window frames the alternative is to cut the plywood and 2x4s to fit the inside of the door frame buffed up against the band molding.
2. Cut the 2x4s to fit the horizontal dimension of the plywood. You will need two 2×4 exterior and two interior braces for each window and three sets for each door. Note: For buildings with metal doors and window frames the 2x4s for the outside will be cut to the dimensions of the plywood, fitting inside the door frame, against the band molding. For the inside, the 2x4s will be cut to the outside dimension of the door or window frame.
3. Pre-drill 3/8th inch holes in the plywood and the braces.
4. The holes will be placed approximately 1/3 of the length of the brace from each outside edge of the door and window jam.
5. The two window braces will be placed 1/3 of the distance from the top and the bottom of the window.
6. The three-door braces will be placed; one in the center of the doorway, and one half the distance from the center to the top and to the bottom of the doorway.
7. Place the plywood over the exterior opening and nail it to the frame. Note: For metal frames place the plywood and braces inside the frame against the band molding.
8. Place the 2×4 braces over the interior and exterior of the door or window.
9. Place the large washer over the carriage bolt and place the bolt through the holes.
10. Place washer and nut inside and tighten securely. Torque the nut so that it slightly compresses the interior 2×4.

4 Tasks Property Managers Should do to Prepare for a Storm

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial property can't be completely ignored when inclement weather comes through, and business owners can't control all elements of storm preparedness, especially if they lease space. With that in mind, managers must take action, doing what they can to protect the assets. Here are four things they can do to help.

1. Establish Communication

Regular updates are important. People need to know if the area is safe or whether evacuation and boarding should occur. Furthermore, everyone should be on the same page about how to prepare for the storm and who has what responsibility. Therefore, property management should compile a list of everyone's phone numbers and email addresses. Send messages often, ensuring that everyone is aware of your progress. 

2. Have a Plan

Well before a system appears, sit down and discuss the protocol for storm preparedness. Gather together and upload online important legal and financial documents: This includes contracts, mortgage papers, bank account numbers, and insurance policies. In addition, think ahead of whom to call in an emergency. 

3. Prepare the Grounds

Once a watch is issued, property management should begin looking at the facility. Are the shingles loose on the roofs? If so, have them secured or covered. Does the pool area require attention? Have employees clear the deck of any furniture. Also, walk around. Trim tree branches, and pick up any loose debris. Eliminate objects that could be become projectiles from the high winds. 

4. Record the Property

Before the gales hit, grab your phone and videotape the building. Make sure this has a timestamp, verifying for insurance that you did attend to the location. Should leaks or structural problems occur, this evidence may help expedite the approval for a storm restoration company's services.

Be proactive. Management companies should consider storm preparedness early, mapping out their tasks and establishing a strong line of contact. Protect the space. It's valuable to many.

Precautions To Take When Your Home Is in a Flood Zone

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Living next to the beach or in a low-lying area may be a lifelong dream, but it can come with added risks. One such risk is having a home in a flood zone. You don't have to give up what may otherwise be a great location, though. There are several precautions you can take to minimize your risk of flood damage.

Protect Your Home

An active storm season in Cockrell, MO, can test the boundaries of your home like nothing else. While you may not be able to fully keep your home from flooding, there are several ways you can prepare for an upcoming rainstorm:

• Put sandbags out as a barrier against rising water.
• Install a sump pump in your basement on or the lower level of your home.
• Place outlets or sensitive equipment higher on the wall or on a shelf.
  
  

It's also a good idea to have an evacuation plan, just in case the water rises so high you need to leave your home. Even if your home floods, you can have measures already in place to deal with the fallout. 

Purchase Insurance

If your home is in a flood zone, you need to have flood insurance. This coverage is not typically part of your homeowners policy, so you'll need to purchase it separately. If your insurance company doesn't offer flood insurance, you can get a referral for a company that does from the National Flood Insurance Program.

Plan for Remediation

Flooding can produce serious damage to your home. Have the contact information for local flood restoration specialists handy. They can assess the damage to your home and give you an estimate of how much the repairs are going to cost.

When your home is in a flood zone, you have to take some factors into consideration that other homeowners do not. You may be able to minimize some damage. For the damage that you can't avoid, though, you need trusted cleanup professionals and an insurance policy that covers it.

Specific Items You Can Save From Mold With The Right Treatment

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

The presence of mold, whether it comes from water damage or high moisture, can permanently damage your possessions. While there are items you should throw away, such as food and medicine, there are others with the sentimental value you might hesitate to throw away. Mold cleaning, especially when handled by mold remediation specialists, can bring back some of these possessions with no health hazards and no permanent damage. Take note of the specific items you can save with the right treatment.

Leather Items

Leather can be an appealing choice for several items in your household. It can have a classy look that also brings extra warmth to the user.

• Jackets 
• Furniture
• Baseballs and baseball mitts
• Briefcases
• Purses

It can be difficult to dispose of these leather items if they suffer from mold damage. Thankfully, there are chemicals that can clean and fight the mold's mycotoxin, such as borax and tea tree oil. Ultimately, a remediation technician will make the final call depending on the item and damage. 

Clothing

Nothing can be more frustrating than seeing mold grow over your favorite clothes. Just as with leather, there are a variety of mold cleaning products such as hot water, vinegar, bleach, or borax. There are even specialized laundry machines, such as the Esporta Machine, designed to remove all types of damage from clothes, including mold and mildew. Use these resources depending on the clothing's specifications so the cleaners avoid damaging them. Once again, consult with cleaning specialists for the best solution. 

Paintings

The paintings in your residence may effectively decorate your home but salvaging them from mold growth can be difficult. Painting over the mold is not recommended, as the paint can peel off and the toxins can remain. Instead, consult a specialist that can remove the mold safely with the right tools and chemicals. 

Even though mold can ruin many of your priceless possessions, they are not beyond salvaging. Research mold cleaning professionals and techniques, to bring your prized possession to former glory.

Is Your Business Prepared?

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

Up to 50% of businesses never reopen following a disaster. This usually happens because the amount of damage was too large and too expensive to recover from. Your business should be prepared to minimize the damage to your business so that doors can open back for business.  

There are a few things you can do to make sure your establishment is ready.

Continuity Plan

A business that does reopen after a disaster must have a preparedness plan. You must identify the components of your business that are essential for it to continue running. Prepare a plan with the appropriate staff as well. Your staff must know who and what should happen in the case of an emergency.

Prepare your Emergency Plan

Have a plan in place. Letting SERVPRO prepare an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) will help minimize the damage by having a quick response to an emergency. Knowing what and when to do will ensure that the right steps are taken.  Something as simple as just knowing where the shutoff valves can save you from extensive water damage.

Review Your Insurance

Make sure you are familiar with your insurance. You need to know who to call when you need answers regarding your business. Understanding your policies will help you be able to know what is not covered and reassess if your needs require more coverage.

Cyber Security

The physical damages to your property but also internal damage to important files and data. Be sure to have all your data backed up.

Why The Chemical Mercaptan is a Lifesaver

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

The gas that heats many homes and provides energy for water heaters and clothes dryers is colorless and odorless. If it leaks from pipes or hoses it creates a dangerous situation due to its extreme combustibility. To make gas more detectable, engineers have added the chemical mercaptan, making it easily identifiable by its sulfurous, rotten egg smell. It is hard to estimate how many times a gas fire has been prevented by this chemical.

When a homeowner smells mercaptan it is a sure sign that somewhere in your home there is a gas leak. When this happens, immediate steps should be taken to shut off the gas or at least get people and pets out of the home and call the fire department. 

The Best Actions To Take With a Natural Gas Leak

Specific actions can reduce the likelihood of a gas fire in a home or apartment. The goal is to stop the gas leak or increase the safety of everyone in the home. Here are the most effective actions to take:

Check all the appliances that use natural gas, beginning with the stove since this is the most likely source. Many times burners do not light, or go out, allowing gas to leak into the home. If you can find the source of the leak and stop it the emergency is over.

Increase the ventilation of your home by opening windows and doors. This enables the gas to dissipate and not collect in a certain area, reducing the likelihood of a gas explosion.

Don't use electrical devices, or even turn on lights, as this could ignite the gas.

Evacuate the home and call in the fire department

The Best Way To Handle Fire Damage

Gas fire in your home is likely to cause soot and smoke damage and loss of property. Call in a fire remediation team that will respond quickly and clean up the damage in a professional manner.

Shut Off Valves at Work

10/16/2021 (Permalink)

Many workplaces always call on the boss or the maintenance man when something goes wrong. What if they were homesick, or in a meeting and you need to locate the water shutoff, where do you start? 

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore can help commercial property in planning for water, fire, storm damage. How, with a free Emergency Response Profile created by the SERVPRO Marketing Department. 

By having a plan of action and including it into your regular training at your office you can minimize the cost of an unplanned event happens like a frozen pipe, fire, or anything. 

Some property managers use this as a tool to keep everything organized in one central location. 

Is your business ready for a disaster? Even a simple pipe burst can cause a lot of damage and headache. With a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile, can have the critical information to minimize damages, provide the resources for the employees of the company, and provide property details and information. This is a FREE service that we provide to commercial properties. 

Make an appointment today to get started!

If the unthinkable happens, call your local SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore Professionals at (816)884-2240 seven days a week 24/7 to help you avoid the cost and hassle of secondary damages.  We will help make it "Like it never even happened."

Fire Escape Planning for Your Business

10/16/2021 (Permalink)

An emergency plan is not required for all businesses, however, OSHA recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing a plan. 

Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan. 

Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked, and well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover and conduct a head count. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.

Storm Damage? NO problem for SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore

10/16/2021 (Permalink)

When Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore businesses suffer serious damage after storm events, SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore will work around the clock to clean up any debris and to restore the property to pre-storm conditions. We understand that commercial storm damage can be very costly in terms of productivity; that is why it is always our goal to get your business back up and running as quickly and as seamlessly as possible. 

We Have the Resources to Handle Large Commercial Storm Damage 

When a storm hits Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, we can scale our resources to handle large-loss commercial restoration projects. We have access to equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,600 Franchises across the country. 

If your business is ever damaged by severe floods or storms, call us right away at (816)884-2240. Disaster can strike when we least expect it, but SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore will be there to help you weather the storm.

Benefits for Commercial Clients

10/16/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Property Managers

If you work in the property management industry you understand the value of a quick response and fast turnaround time when it comes to an emergency situation. A quick response time can mean a reduction in the size and scope of the damage, it can also mean the difference between having a chance at saving business critical documents and equipment for the clients that are most important to you. 

Commercial Client Benefits 

Choosing SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore for your commercial damage mitigation accrues you benefits not limited to: 

• Working with you to tailor the solution to you, priding ourselves in accurate and straightforward communication. 
• Every large commercial loss is supervised by a local commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. 
• The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster. 

Call us Today!

Contact the Commercial Fire and Water damage experts at SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore when you discover damage at your business. (816)884-2240 to set up an appointment for an inspection and consultation.

Storm Damage Can Happen Anywhere!

9/26/2021 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA), “Approximately seventy-five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding.” NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States as:

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the U.S., and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).

When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO® Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore Professionals can help. They can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP), or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in business as soon as possible.

Your local SERVPRO® Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore Professionals are ready to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Understand our Terms and Lingo

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore is always "Here to Help". We know the jargon can be confusing so we usually try to break it down as easily as we can out in the field, but we know that our customers like to stay informed. Here are some common terms used in the field with their definition so you can understand better what is happening in your home or business.

Anti-Microbials: A substance, mechanism, or condition that inhibits the growth or existence of an organism. Commonly applied after water damage to prevent mold from developing.

Fire Damage Recovery: The process of restoring and recovering property and belongings after a fire. The objectives include minimizing existing damage, damage mitigation, structure stabilization, soot & odor removal, and reconstruction.

Fungi: The unicellular or multicellular eukaryotic/ DNA organisms embracing a large group of microflora including molds, mildews, yeasts, mushrooms, rusts, and smuts.

HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

HEPA Filter: High-efficiency particulate air filter, a specialized filter capable of removing 99.7% of particles. Commonly used in mold or odor job sites. HEPA Vacuum or HEPA air scrubber. 

Masking Agents: Designed to prevent or remove heightened awareness of odors by providing a fragrance, which is stronger and more pleasant to smell while the source of the odor is being eliminated.

Smoke Damage Removal: Neutralizing or removing smoke odors that linger after fires.

Smoke Particles: Smoke is composed of gases / sometimes aerosols, and airborne solids. Dry wood, natural fibers, and paper all produce small non-smearing materials. Plastic, foam, and rubber (polymers) produce large easily smeared residues.

SERVPRO: Your Expertise in Commercial Water Damage in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, MO, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.

Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration

Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.

Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply store. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible.

Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particleboard, carpets, or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at the minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present.

Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning, and possibly restructuring. Water-damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particleboard and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

Services You Can Count On in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, MO

You can depend on SERVPRO to provide reasonable prices for commercial damages and other services in the Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore area. Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage, and storm damage. We also assist with mold remediation, and we're qualified to provide cleaning and building services. Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration.

SERVPRO Professionals are the Storm Damage Experts

9/4/2021 (Permalink)

Quick Response and High Standards Will Leave you Satisfied after Remediation

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs to an already anxiety-provoking situation. SERVPRO delivers the help you need swiftly even when a local disaster is widespread as we are able to call upon a network of over 1,650 franchises nationwide to respond if the need is great.

Storm damage in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind, and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues you face. Choosing our company puts in motion a vast support system, but our local ownership means you will receive a personalized approach to your particular situation, efficiently returning your home back to its pre-storm condition just “Like it never even happened.”  

Placing your trust in SERVPRO for your storm damage needs will reap benefits that less qualified companies simply cannot deliver. We use state-of-the-art equipment to clean, repair, and restore your home and in the process, we also restore your and your family’s peace of mind. Our technicians are highly trained and qualified. We also work closely with your insurance company, ensuring that all the work necessary is approved and compensated according to the terms of your policy. Our high standards and relentless drive to do the job on time while meeting local specifications means you and your family will quickly return to the quiet enjoyment of your house and neighborhood. We are not satisfied until you are happily back in your restored dwelling. 

Once you make sure that your family is safe after a major storm, your first call should be to SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore. Call (816)884-2240 24/7 and begin the road to recovery by scheduling an inspection with our storm damage experts.

How to Reduce the Chance of a Kitchen Fire

9/4/2021 (Permalink)

Though fires can start in any area of the home, many fires often begin in kitchens, and kitchen fires can cause widespread damage to homes. Fortunately, there are various tips you can follow to help to reduce the chance of a kitchen fire occurring in your home.

1. Don't Leave Cooking Food Unattended

When cooking, it can be easy to become distracted. Though you may be tempted to leave your kitchen while cooking, however, this can result in a fire. Items left on a stovetop can burn and catch fire in a short period of time if high heat is used, and if you are out of the room when the fire begins, you may not be able to stop the fire from getting out of control. For these reasons, it's generally best to stay in the kitchen when cooking.

2. Clean Your Kitchen Often

When it comes to fire prevention tips, cleaning your kitchen can be beneficial. If grease has spilled on your stovetop or in your oven, or if you use a dirty, greasy pan, a fire can start quickly. A grease fire can be particularly dangerous because it can spread at an accelerated rate and cause major damage to your home. Cleaning your kitchen often, however, can reduce the likelihood of grease causing a fire.

3. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

Though a flame in a kitchen doesn't necessarily spell disaster if it is quickly extinguished, fires that aren't quickly controlled can cause devastation to homes. If a home has been affected by major fire damage, many homeowners find it helpful to contact emergency restoration services. However, the sooner you are able to extinguish a fire, the less likely it is that your home will sustain major damage. Having an ABC fire extinguisher (an extinguisher that can put out fires caused by trash, grease, or electricity) in your kitchen can be wise.

Since kitchen fires are incredibly common, knowing tips to prevent this type of fire can be useful to homeowners. Preventative methods can include remaining in your kitchen when cooking, frequently cleaning your kitchen, and keeping a fire extinguisher in your kitchen.

Important Facts About Mold Growth

8/22/2021 (Permalink)

Everyone Should Know These Three Facts About Mold

It always pays to have a little bit of knowledge about certain subjects, and knowing a few facts about mold growth is a good idea. This information may help your business prevent the growth of mold, as well as help to rectify the situation if mold is found. Everyone should know these three facts about mold:

• Mold is a naturally occurring fungus that are found just about everywhere in small amounts
• Mold thrives in damp conditions of high humidity
• Mold can degrade indoor air quality and cause health effects to many people
  
  

A few other facts are relevant here. Mold often exudes a musty odor. Finally, mold spores are microscopic and can be spread throughout a building through the heating and cooling system.

Proven Steps for Mold Cleanup

When mold growth is discovered at your business in Harrisonville, Belton, or Raymore, it should be looked into immediately. Calling in a mold mitigation team that is Faster to Any Size Disaster is the place to begin. Each situation is unique, but the process for mold remediation is similar in most respects. It begins with an inspection and damage assessment and looks for instances of water damage, which often paved the way for mold to grow in a commercial building. These initial measures are followed by mold containment and air filtration and then the removal and cleaning of materials affected by mold. The final stages include content cleaning and restoration.

Positive Results

It is essentially impossible to remove every last vestige of mold spores from a building. However, with the right techniques and equipment, mold growth can be stopped to the point where it does not pose a problem for employees and customers. The removal of mold colonies will also address the appearance of the workplace, and the musty odor will be gone, too. With a better understanding of mold, your company can deal with the issue effectively.

When Storms or Floods hit, SERVPRO Is Ready!

8/22/2021 (Permalink)

When Storms or Floods hit Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, SERVPRO is ready! 

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important.  A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit arrisonville/Belton/Raymore, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster.  We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,800 franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 1(816)884-2240

What To Do Right After a Storm Damages Your Home

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

You hear the wind blowing and the rain pounding on your window panes, and you hope your home will remain untouched by the storm. Unfortunately, this is not the case. A tree falls on your roof, and water pours into your home, soaking your carpets and covering your hardwood floors. Here's how to stem the tide of storm damage in the event's immediate aftermath.

1. Document Damage Before Attempting Immediate Repairs

If you are planning to submit a claim to your insurance company for the damages, you will want to record them prior to attempting any immediate repairs. Make a list of damaged items, and take photos or videos of each.

2. Make Immediate Repairs Only To Prevent Further Damage to Your Home

Take the following steps when attempting immediate repairs or cleanup:

• Cover leaking roofs with a tarp to prevent more rainfall from entering the home.
• Pull up a wet carpet to prevent mold and move it to a dry location. 
• Throw away all perishable food that has spoiled.

Make sure all articles being removed from the home were documented on the inventory list of damaged items.

3. Exercise Caution If You're Staying in a Damaged Home 

To restore lost electricity in your home, use generators outside, away from windows and doors. Make sure your sewer system is working before flushing toilets, using water stored previously for this function if necessary. Open windows and run fans inside your home to circulate air and aid the drying process.

You may also choose to contact a company that can perform emergency restoration services in your home. If so, keep receipts for services provided, as well as for any purchases made for immediate repairs, such as a tarp for the leaking roof.

Hopefully, your home will never be subjected to storm damage. If it is, however, these storm tips can get you started on the road to recovery and get your life back to normal as quickly as possible.

ERPs and Why They Are Important

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

Being a business owner can have many responsibilities, and you may have to take on multiple roles.

In most cases, disaster is the last thing you are thinking about, but every business owner, regardless of how new or old your business is, should have a plan and guide for what to do in the event of a disaster.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore offers a free community service called the "Emergency Ready Plan", or an ERP.

ERP's are handy little guides that we make at SERVPRO that contain basic information regarding your property, who owns the property, and where your emergency shut-off locations are.

We document and photograph, where your electrical, water, and gas shut-offs, are, as well as your sprinkler system and security system. We also have the contacts for those utility companies in the event that you must make contact.

Key contacts are also listed in the ERP, such as the owner, the insurance agent for the property, the SERVPRO representative, and the managers of the building.

The emergency contacts and services page has the fire department and police department's emergency and non-emergency numbers as well, that way, if contact is needed, you know where to find all those phone numbers and contact points.

It's very beneficial to have an ERP because although the business owner might know where everything is and who to contact, your employees might not know. Having a guide like this can help so much if the business owner is not present.

ERP's are very convenient as well, we are able to provide a paper copy, and we can provide a digital version on the Ready Plan app! Which makes ERP's very easy to access in times of need.

When you run a business, it's good to prepare for not just the next day's shift, but for the things that happen unexpectedly.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore is always here to help!

Flood Risk

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

If you’re in the process of buying a house or you’re looking for a new homeowners insurance policy, you might be familiar with what a flood zone is. If you don’t know what they are, you might want to start reading about them.

Zoning for Floods?

A flood zone is an area in a specific geographical space that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has determined has at least some risk of flooding. There are four primary types of zones, which correlate to the severity or category of excessive water events that can occur in that area.

• Moderate to Low-Risk Areas
• High-Risk Areas
• High Risk – Coastal Areas
• Undetermined Risk Areas

How to Find Your Zone

Each area’s zones are depicted on a community's Flood Insurance Rate Map, also known as FIRM, which can be found online at https://www.fema.gov/flood-insurance-rate-map-firm. You can also contact your local municipality or look on their website, most cities will have zoning information available online. You can try searching for the term “flood elevation certificate” for faster results. 

Some people may think that these zones can only be found next to a large body of water or along a river or stream, but that’s not the case. Houses that are nowhere near a body of water can experience a flood if there’s a large rainstorm. 

Emergency Preparedness

Knowing what kind of flood zone you live in can also be helpful for storage options and emergency preparedness. If you live in a high-risk zone, for example, you probably don’t want to put boxes directly on the floor, and you might want to increase the number of your emergency supplies. 

If you weren’t aware that your home is potentially at risk for a flood, and a storm causes water-related damage, you should contact a storm damage specialist in your area to determine your best course of action and get the damage repaired as quickly as possible.

A Company with Over 50 Years of Reliable Service

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

An original picture of SERVPRO.

A Brief History of SERVPRO

SERVPRO Industries was initially launched as a painting business in 1967 in Sacramento, California by Ted and Doris Isaacson. With a background in cleaning and restoration, the business was transformed into a franchisor of cleanup and restoration specialists. After selling its first franchise in 1969, SERVPRO continued to grow, developing a highly regarded national brand.

SERVPRO relocated the corporate headquarters from Sacramento to Gallatin, Tennessee in 1988. At the time of the relocation, SERVPRO consisted of 647 franchises. The company sold its 1,000th franchise in 2000.

To accommodate the growth, SERVPRO headquarters moved to a bigger facility in 2005. In 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2019, SERVPRO was listed as one of the top Tennessee workplaces in The Tennessean.

The Blackstone Group acquired a majority stake in SERVPRO Industries, LLC in March 2019. The Isaacsons still maintain a small portion of stock. Rick Isaacson was promoted from EVP to Chief Executive Officer of SERVPRO after Randy Isaacson and Sue Steen retired. 

Today, SERVPRO consists of more than 1,700 franchises in the United States and Canada. The brand, built around a family, has now grown to employ thousands in a bigger family. The SERVPRO team is here to help. Give us a call if you need anything at (816) 884-2240 or contact us HERE.

My Sump Pump Overflowed. How Long Do I Have to Clean Up the Mess?

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

Letting water (from any source) remain in your basement or on your property can be disastrous.

Why It's In Your Best Interest to Address Water Damage Quickly

The midwest has received lots of rain within the past few weeks. We have had several flash floods that have caused flooded basements all over the region. If water has entered your property, the key is to act swiftly with thorough clean up and drying.

Timeline:

First Hour

Within the first hour, water spreads, saturating everything in its path. Taking the least path of resistance, it soaks into the flooring and anything else in contact with the water. Defying gravity, water begins to wick upwards into the walls from the floor through a process called capillary action.  Varnishes from wood furniture can bleed from the water, which can stain flooring. Any cardboard boxes, games, photographs start to swell and warp.

First 24 Hours

Within the first day, the drywall will begin to get soft. Metal surfaces in contact with the water can start the process of rusting - especially if not protected by paint.  Inexpensive furniture begins to swell and crack. Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain. A musty odor will start in some cases - particularly if it has been wet in this area before.

72 Hours to 1 Week:

If no cleanup work has been done, mildew and mold can begin to grow and spread. Musty odors typically begin to get stronger.  Furniture, walls, doors, cabinets, flooring could swell, warp and possibly begin to show visible mold due to the moisture soaking into them for so long. A fair amount of contamination is likely by the time a week passes.  Prolonged high humidity in the structure from the water can also cause secondary damage to pictures, wall hangings and damage on other levels of the home.  Even fresh-sourced water such as a water pipe break would be considered a contaminated level equal to sewage after a week of sitting.  

I Didn’t Catch it Quickly - Now What Should I Do?

SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore is here to help make whatever water damage situation you find yourself in, “Like it never even happened.” It’s always easier, less expensive and faster to clean up water damage immediately after it occurs, but if you come home from vacation to a murky indoor swimming pool you didn’t know you had, call us today and we’ll make it go away.  Our 24 hour emergency response number is 816-882-2240, or you can contact us HERE.

I Have a Musty Smell on my Property – Now What?

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Dealing with mold is a frustration. SERVPRO is here to help.

Finding and Solving Mold

Mold growth can hide in places that aren’t always easy to see.  Typical examples include an incomplete or late drying of water damage situation, or perhaps a leak that wasn’t caught right away.  Your nose can be an excellent indicator of a problem.  Said another way, if you smell it – DON’T ignore it.  Delays of cleaning up water can turn into mold and delays of cleaning up mold can turn into poor air quality.

Many issues with mold are easier & cheaper if dealt with quickly when the affected area is small.  As it grows more severe and affects a larger area, it can require not only the localized cleanup, but cleaning of the air and ductwork system, air quality testing, and can become more complex to remediate, thereby costing more.

Mold problems inside a dwelling or place of business almost never get better on their own.  Having said that, mold requires moisture to grow – so it may grow and smell musty until it runs out of water and ends up dormant.  Any re-introduction of moisture can cause immediate and accelerated growth and odor.

Can’t I just spray something on it and make it all go away?

The answer to this is: it depends.  If we are talking about a little mildew in a shower, that may be an adequate approach for maintaining it.  However, if we are talking about any real affected hygroscopic materials (not just your tile or fiberglass sheeted shower walls) then you need an assessment by a professional.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore is here to help.  Don’t wait to mitigate when it’s worse, call today at 816-884-2240 or contact us HERE.

How Can I Prevent Fire Damage To My Property?

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers are a cheap and quick way to prevent some basic property fires.

How to Avoid Fire Damage

No one wants to have a smoke or fire disaster in their home or business. It is messy and interruptive to your life. Here are three tips to minimize or avoid this altogether:

1. Alarms

This is the easiest way to prevent fire and smoke damage on your property. It makes a loud beeping sound to warn of potential smoke and fire danger. It’s a good idea to test your alarms every month and replace batteries every year. SERVPRO recommends replacing your smoke detectors at least every 10 years. This ensures your alarm is always up to date and working properly. It is a good idea to at least consider a carbon monoxide detector as well.

2. Appliances

The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) cites that nearly half of house fires occur in the kitchen. So when you’re using the microwave, stove, oven, dishwasher or other appliances, keep an eye on them. Keep your towels and chemicals far away from the heat. Stay in the kitchen while your appliances are on and active. It doesn’t hurt to have a properly rated and charged fire extinguisher nearby.

For your washer and dryer, or if you have heaters or fans in your home, make sure they do not have any frayed cords exposed plug-ins. Dryer vents should be cleaned frequently as well.

Outdoor hazards include campfires, fireworks, and grills and must be maintained. If you walk away from a fire or hot grill, it isn’t too hard for a stray spark or flame to catch and a disaster to ensue.

Combustible materials should be kept in their original containers. For example, keep gasoline in a container designed for gasoline. If the container has leaks, transfer it into a new and properly rated container. Labels are your friend. Keep everything labeled as much as possible to avoid any cross contamination or unwanted mixtures. 

3. Habits

Basic precaution measures decrease the severity and likelihood of a property fire. For example, be careful when cooking or using the appliances and keep an eye on them. When using candles for any occasion, make sure you use them carefully with drip trays and never leave them unattended.

If fire does break out in your house you should always have fire department numbers handy and a plan to deal with the situation ahead of time. It’s a good idea to have a plan of escape and review how fire extinguishers work. 

If smoke or fire does damage your property, or you have any questions, SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore is here to help.  Contact us HERE or call anytime at 816-884-2240.

"Fire Damage Isn't That Hard to Cleanup, Is It?"

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the products and training to remove smoke and fire damage from your property.

Why You Should Hire SERVPRO for Fire/Smoke Cleanup

No one wants their property harmed or destroyed by fire. So, when fire damage does occur, the main goal of the property owner is to get back to normal immediately if possible. However, if done incorrectly, this can result in further damage to property or the exposure to harmful smoke particles.

When our SERVPRO team arrives, we know that fire and smoke damage creates tiny, visible & invisible soot particles that can cause odor and a frustration for the property owner. This is why we focus on containing all the fire damaged areas in order to keep all of the soot particles in the original area. The purpose is for the odor and damage to not spread.

Fires often burns at different temperatures within a single room and the incomplete combustion and lack of oxygen can create complex residues. Some objects are more restorable than others, depending on the damage the object has taken. This is shown in the amount of residue from smoke on each object or structure. Our technicians have the appropriate products to clean smoke and fire damage. If the smoke areas are saturated in water, the smoke can be pressed deeper into the surface, causing additional difficulty in removing smoke odor and proper surface cleaning.

If your property is damaged by fire and smoke, calling SERVPRO is the first step to minimizing the interruption. SERVPRO technicians know how to solve fire and smoke damage. Our technicians are fully trained for any disaster. Call us at (816) 884-2240 or contact us HERE.

Not All Water Damage Is Created Equal...

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage comes in 3 categories and 4 classes, depending on time, source and amount.

Identifying How Severe the Damage Is to Your Property

Water damage can be more or less destructive depending on the source and qualities of the water. The IICRC (The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) has established three categories of water and four classes of water damage to give an understanding of just how clean or unclean the water is. 

Categories:

First, here are the three categories:

Category 1 refers to a water loss from a sanitary or clean water source. This category does not pose a substantial health risk from exposure. Examples of Category 1 water include a water faucet, rainwater, melting snow, a water fountain or a pipe break. Note: Category 1 water can become Category 2 or even Category 3 water if it is not dealt with rapidly or it floods into contaminated areas.

Category 2 water contains a significant amount of contamination and poses discomfort and sickness if exposure is not restricted. This water can contain microorganisms and bacteria. SERVPRO uses an anti-microbial spray to make sure that the surfaces are cleaned after removing the water. Examples of Category 2 include dishwasher or washing machine overflow, sink drains and broken aquariums. Note: Category 2 water can easily deteriorate into Category 3 water if it is not dealt with.

Category 3 water is extremely unsanitary. The high levels of bacteria cause this water to spread harmful toxins or pathogens and create an extremely dangerous environment. Severe symptoms can develop upon exposure. Examples of Category 3 include sewage and sewer backup, flooding from rivers, seawater, and stagnant liquid that has fostered bacterial growth.

Classes:

Now that we have explained the three categories, here are the four classes:

Class 1 - According to the IICRC standard:

“Class 1 - (least amount of water absorption and evaporation load): Water intrusion where wet, porous materials (e.g., carpet, gypsum board, fiber-fill insulation, concrete masonry unit (CMU), textiles) represent less than ~5% of the combined floor, wall, and ceiling surface area in the space; and where materials described as low evaporation materials (e.g., plaster, wood, concrete, masonry) or low evaporation assemblies (e.g., multiplayer wallboard, multilayer subfloors, gym floors, or other complex built-up assemblies) have absorbed minimal moisture.”

Class 2 - According to the IICRC standard:

“Class 2 - (significant amount of water absorption and evaporation load): Water intrusion where wet, porous materials (e.g., carpet, gypsum board, fiber-fill insulation, concrete masonry unit (CMU), textiles) represent ~5% to ~40% of the combined floor, wall, and ceiling surface area in the space; and where materials described as low evaporation materials (e.g., plaster, wood, concrete, masonry) or low evaporation assemblies (e.g., multiplayer wallboard, multilayer subfloors, gym floors, or other complex built-up assemblies) have absorbed minimal moisture.”

Class 3 - According to the IICRC standard:

“Class 3 - (greatest amount of water absorption and evaporation load): Water intrusion where wet, porous materials (e.g., carpet, gypsum board, fiber-fill insulation, concrete masonry unit (CMU), textiles) represent more than ~40% of the combined floor, wall, and ceiling surface area in the space; and where materials described as low evaporation materials (e.g., plaster, wood, concrete, masonry) or low evaporation assemblies (e.g., multiplayer wallboard, multilayer subfloors, gym floors, or other complex built-up assemblies) have absorbed minimal moisture.”

Class 4 - According to the IICRC standard:

“Class 4 - (deeply held or bound water): Water intrusion that involves a significant amount of water absorption into low evaporation materials (e.g., plaster, wood, concrete, masonry) or low evaporation assemblies (e.g., multilayer wallboard, multilayer subfloors, gym floors, or other complex, built-up assemblies). Drying may require special methods, longer drying times, or substantial water vapor pressure differentials.”

The IICRC sets the industry standard for professional carpet cleaning, water damage and mold remediation. Our staff is trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. Continuous training is important to our brand; from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, our staff is equipped with knowledge to restore your property.

If you have any questions, contact us HERE or give us a call at (816) 884-2240. SERVPRO is here to help.

The Reason SERVPRO Best Serves Your Commercial Needs

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore is an IICRC Certified Firm.

How SERVPRO Stands Out From Competition

Certifications matter! You wouldn’t just let any service company on your property, and rightly so. You want to make sure they are qualified and properly trained to handle any problems that arise on the job. You need the job done as soon as possible so you can return to running your business and life. 

However, in an industry like SERVPRO, where we handle fire, smoke, storm, mold and water damage, the standards can seem rather grey. This is where the IICRC comes in.

The IICRC

The IICRC, also known as the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, sets the industry standards for our work. “Unmatched in technical excellence, the IICRC Standards are developed to provide the highest quality concepts, terminology, and procedures recognized in the cleaning and restoration industry.”

Since its founding in 1972, the IICRC has set the industry standard for companies like SERVPRO and ensured the customer that such a company will accurately and efficiently complete a job. According to their website, the IICRC has become a global organization with more than 60,000 active Certified Technicians and more than 6,000 Certified Firms around the world.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore is proud to be your local IICRC certified firm. You can count on us to get the job done professionally and based on the scientifically proven standards. If you have any questions regarding our certifications and services, give us a call at (816) 884-2240 or contact our us HERE.

How a $10-$20 Investment Can Save Your Life and Property

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms can be the difference between saving & losing everything.

The Power of Smoke Alarms

While smoke alarms may seem loud and obnoxious and go off at annoying times, it can mean the difference between life and death when a fire does break out on your property. A smoke alarm is the cheapest way to limit and avoid fire damage to your property. Believe it or not, 60% of fire deaths occur in properties that do not have active and working smoke alarms. You need to realize that a fire on your property is entirely possible and should be treated as such. Make sure your family, possessions or company are protected using a smoke alarm.

The type of smoke detector in your home will determine how and when batteries need to be replaced. There are three main types of alarms to be aware of: 

• Alkaline battery alarm
• Lithium battery alarm
• Wired smoke alarm

1. Alkaline Battery Alarms

Many smoke alarms are powered by 9-volt alkaline batteries, or even AA batteries. DO NOT just wait for the batteries to run out. Instead, replace them yearly or even more often. Doing so keeps your alarm loud and responsive to any threats of fire.  

2. Lithium Battery Alarms

Lithium batteries last much longer than alkaline batteries. However, you cannot simply replace the battery when the time comes. Rather, you will need to replace the entire detector after ten years. Make sure to keep up on this battery type since they give a shorter warning time before dying than other alarm types, and since it dies quickly, you will be given no warning of a fire threat.

3. Wired Smoke Alarms 

Many people opt for wired smoke alarms since they are reliable and reduce fire damage caused by accidental shocks. It is embarrassing calling in a fire restoration specialist because a fire started while changing out an old smoke detector! To avoid this, a wired smoke alarm doesn’t run on an expirable battery. However, you should absolutely put in a backup battery and replace it yearly.

Regardless of the type of smoke alarm, it is a good practice to replace the entire alarm every 10 years. This ensures that there isn’t a mechanical problem within the alarm itself and you always have the newest and most up to date technology protecting what matters most. DO NOT wait until you start to hear chirping from your smoke alarm to change your batteries! Keep your home and family safe by following these recommendations.

If you have any questions about fire or smoke cleanup or restoration, SERVPRO is here to help. Call (816) 884-2240 or contact us HERE.

Oops, I forgot to put my hoses away last fall!

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Above: a garden hose attached to an outdoor water faucet.

How five minutes could save you 100% or more on indoor flooding

Spring is here and the weather is getting nicer! It’s the time of year when many of us want to get outside, enjoy fresh air and possibly try out our green thumb with some new flowers or shrubs. If you left your garden hose outside and attached to your house or business through the winter, you could be in for a bad surprise. Frozen outdoor water spigots are notorious for freezing over the winter especially when your hose is left attached and then leaking inside the structure only during the time your outdoor water faucet is in the "on" position in the Springtime. To prevent this situation, here are a couple of tips.

Disconnect Hoses in the Fall

First, keep an eye on the weather in the fall and before freezing temps hit, disconnect your garden hoses and bring them indoors. They will last longer if kept inside during the winter and reduce your chances of a frozen / leaking faucet. Doing this should automatically drain any remaining water in your water faucet as long as it is correctly installed with a level or slightly downward slope as it leaves the structure.

I forgot and left my hose attached through winter - now what? Read on! This next section about checking pressure is a great place to start. 

Check for Pressure

Before using your water faucet, attach a garden hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle to your outdoor water faucet/spigot and turn on the water at the faucet. Have a friend or family member inside your basement listening for running water as you turn it on outside, and then check the spigot inside and outside for leaks. If your spigot is in a finished portion of your basement, observe to see if the water pressure is weak at the end of the hose. It is possible that the pipe has burst and leaking inside where you can't observe it. If you come home to a new indoor water fountain or swimming pool you don't remember having installed, turn off the water and call SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore immediately at (816) 884-2240 to help reverse damage and help make it "Like it never even happened."

If you have any questions, let us know! SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore is always here to help.

New Management!

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Tim is pictured with his wife, April, their four kids & dog, Bentley.

In March of 2021, Tim & April Howell purchased the SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore franchise.  Tim brings a record of success and experience to the business. In 1999, he began working at a Wichita based restoration franchise as the General Manager. A few years later, they moved and purchased a struggling restoration franchise in Topeka, Kansas. The business grew to have several other locations, including the Dallas, Texas area. 

Tim has also owned and managed commercial real estate, as well as other services companies and most recently worked as an Executive Vice President for a large commercial roofing firm in downtown Kansas City.  During this time, his desire grew to own a restoration franchise again. This led to his acquisition of the SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore franchise.

Tim currently holds a Master Water Restorer, Master Fire & Smoke Restorer and other credentials from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification (IICRC).  He also holds many other licenses, and certifications from his experience in the industry over the last 22 years.

The team at SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore is excited to serve the area with a strong emphasis in customer service.  If we can ever be of service to you, in carpet or duct cleaning, water damage, fire damage, mold remediation, or work in either residential or commercial settings, please don’t hesitate to contact us any time, day or night at 816-884-2240.

FROZEN Pipes Bursting During Beautiful Spring Weather?

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Above: A frozen and burst outdoor water faucet. Below: A diagram of how a frost-proof faucet works.

Preventing Frozen Faucets from Flooding Your Property in the Springtime

In the cold weather, which is common in the midwest during the Fall and Winter seasons, outdoor water faucets installed on the exterior of the structure can freeze easily. When water freezes, it expands. This puts stress on the pipes, causing many to burst. This can lead to water damage if not properly maintained.

In the top picture, the water remained in the pipe. The freezing weather took its toll and froze the water. The water expanded, causing the stress on the pipe, causing it to burst. When the property owner opened the valve, the water pressure forced the water through the burst pipe, which flooded the property. 

Here are 2 solutions to prevent outside water faucets from freezing:

1. A Properly Installed Frost-Proof Faucet

First, consider investing in a frost-proof faucet which can help avoid water damage. See the second picture. The water only flows when the valve is opened by the handle. For example, when you turn off the faucet, you expect water to trickle to a stop in a few seconds. That is because the handle turns off the valve a foot back inside the pipe, as the image illustrates. Notice the faucet is installed horizontally, but with a slight downward slant pushing the water outside. This keeps the water either drained out of the faucet and far enough inside to keep the water from freezing and expanding. However, if your faucet slants upward as it leaves the structure, the valve will still close BUT water will sit inside the pipe, creating opportunity for a frozen and burst pipe. Hire a professional plumber to inspect the pipe and check for leaks to avoid water damage.

2. Purchase and Install a Cover ($5 or Less)

The other option focuses on covering the faucet and keeping it warm. This is a great option if your exterior siding is fairly flat, not lapped or heavily varied. You can visit a local hardware store and get a styrofoam cover for under $5. When installing it over the faucet, make sure it is tight against the wall of the property and traps the heat inside, insulating your pipes from the freeze.

In the midwest, the weather can be quite unpredictable. Therefore, the best solution for this problem is planning ahead and keeping an eye on freezing weather BEFORE it arrives. Doing so reduces time and money repairing damages caused by the rapid and drastic temperature changes. If you have any questions, or water damage does occur in your property, the pros at SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore are “here to help” 24/7. Call (816) 884-2240.

Top 5 Causes of Flooding in Crawl Spaces

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

No homeowner wants to have a wet crawl space.

Top Five Situations That Can Lead To Unwanted Water

If there is flooding under your home in Belton, MO, one of the first things a water damage remediation expert will do is check what is causing the flood. By identifying the root of the problem, the cleanup team can then determine the next best steps to take. While there are many reasons a home can have a wet crawl space, some causes are more common than others.

1. Poor Sloping
Check the landscape around your house. How is the sloping grade? Ideally, you want the grading around the foundation and crawlspace to slope away from your home. This way, water cannot become trapped underneath. 

2. Gutter Systems
The next place to examine is the gutter system on the roof. If you notice clogged gutters, clean them out. Likewise, you may need to redirect improperly aimed downspouts.

3. Over Watering Plants
Another common reason people end up with a wet crawl space is due to overwatering. If you have a sprinkler system, look to see if it is functioning properly and turn off any hoses.

4. Pipe Bursts
A more complicated cause of the flooding is a pipe burst. Often, broken pipes are easy to spot by simply walking around your home and looking for leaks, but when it happens under the house, things can be more challenging. If you are having difficulty locating a suspected burst, it may be best to call a professional for assistance. Remember, acting quickly can reduce potential damage.

5. Underground Water Issues
Another top cause of water under a home that is more complex is when the issue stems from beneath the ground. In these scenarios, there is typically a problem with a broken city line, an insufficient drain, or another issue resulting from foundation or storm-related damages.
No homeowner wants to have a wet crawl space, but understanding the top causes can help you prevent it from happening in the future. At the end of the day, it is always better to be ready.

What To Know About IICRC Certifications

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Our technicians undergo extensive water restoration training and certification through an IICRC-approved school.

The IICRC, or Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, sets the industry standards for disaster remediation companies. The focus of this company is to continuously improve the standards of operation for this type of work. Although headquartered in Nevada, they shape work standards everywhere, including in Harrisonville, MO.

Standards

While the IICRC is not affiliated with the United States government, it works closely with the American National Standards Institute that monitors different industries' standards. This means that professionals who have this type of certification are highly knowledgeable about the remediation industry. This organization is responsible for establishing the terminology, technology, techniques, and safety protocols of restoration work. By creating certain requirements, it improves the safety of businesses and customers dealing with remediation work. This is critical for ensuring public health. The areas it sets the standards for include:

• Textile floor coverings
  
• Stone restoration
  
• Hard floor coverings
  
• Upholstery cleaning
  
• Water damage restoration
  
• Crime scene cleanup
  
• Mold contamination assessment
  
• HVAC cleaning
  
• Fire and smoke damage restoration
  
  

Certifications
The various areas that have standards set by the IICRC all have a corresponding certification. In other words, a mitigation technician will have a mitigation certificate. As a business owner, it is especially important to ask for verification that the technicians you hire have these. This ensures that your business is in good hands after a disaster.

Maintaining Certification
After technicians complete a course and pass the exam, they are issued a certification card. To keep this certification, you must earn a certain number of continuing education credits every two years. These credits come from additional related courses that you pass the exam for.
Becoming a professional in any field requires ensuring that you are properly trained and certified. The restoration industry is no exception. If you are a business owner looking for a qualified remediation company, ensure they have a certification from this organization. This will help you get the highest quality of work available.

3 Common Commercial Irrigation System Problems

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Broken sprinkler head.

3 Common Commercial Irrigation System Problems

Is your building in Belton, MO, experiencing irrigation problems? There are usually only a few common troubles that affect a standard irrigation system, and the fixes are usually simple ones.

1. Clogged or Obstructed Heads
The most common and simplest issue is a clogged head. The cause is any number of things: foot traffic, lawn care equipment and workers, pets or wild animals, or simply just weather and erosion. To start, check all of your system's heads to see if any are clogged with dirt or crooked. Gently clean any dirt or other debris such as leaves away from the heads. If any are crooked, gently straighten them. This fix helps to clear up any uneven pressure or individual heads that weren't working.

2. Excess or Inadequate Flow
Whether it's too much or not enough water, both aren't good for the health of your lawn. Before doing anything, check your irrigation system controller and be sure that it has been properly adjusted. It might be helpful to check your owner's manual or call the installer if you aren't sure how to operate your system. Next, determine if the flow is uneven across the lawn or if it's concentrated into one area. From this, you can tell if it's a valve issue or a head issue.

3. Leaking Valves or Pipes
As the seasons change, your system needs a lot of maintenance. Along with adjusting your flow from the controller box, you should also be checking for any leaking valves or pipes. If you have already found a leaky pipe or if you've had a sudden burst, it's best to call in a water damage cleanup and restoration specialist. These experts are equipped with special tech to make cleanup a cinch.
Troubleshooting an irrigation system is simple once you know the common problems and have the reassurance of a professional in case things go wrong.

2 Ways To Find Out If You Have Mold

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Mold inspection in a Harrisonville, MO commercial building

Two Ways To Find Out If You Have Mold

Property owners never want to hear the news that they have a problem with mold. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to find mold in commercial buildings. Mold is found everywhere, including indoors and outdoors, and doesn’t cause a problem unless it is allowed to grow. Mold spores feed on moisture, which is why it’s commonly found in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. To the untrained eye, it may be difficult to identify mold. An indoor environmental specialist is someone who has been certified on mold and moisture problems. Here are two ways to find out if you have mold in your Harrisonville, MO, building.

1. Do an Inspection
One way you can find out if you have a mold problem is by doing an inspection. You can walk around your building and look for signs of mold, such as discolored ceilings and walls. It’s also possible to smell mold. An area that has significant mold growth may produce a musty odor, similar to damp, dirty socks. If you think you have a problem with mold, it’s best to get help from an indoor environmental specialist.

2. Contact a Professional
While it is possible for you to see or smell mold, it’s not advised to take care of the problem on your own. Remediating mold in commercial buildings is a major project due to the large size. Mold can spread quickly if left untreated, but thankfully mold remediation specialists are available anytime for emergency service. Once professionals arrive at your business, they will begin a thorough inspection to understand the extent of mold growth. After inspection, professionals will contain the mold, clean the air, remove damaged materials, clean belongings and restore the property.
It can be difficult to determine if there is a mold problem at your Harrisonville, MO, business. Fortunately, an indoor environmental specialist can conduct a mold test even if there is no visible sign of mold. Rely on trusted professionals to help you remediate a mold problem.

How To Handle Winter Storm Damage

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Winter storm does not always lead to a joyous time

Snow can be fun, but it does not always lead to cozy evenings around a fire with hot cocoa. Sometimes, snow causes more problems than smiles. While some people might think about sledding and vacation days when there is a winter storm in Belton, MO, others have to worry about the damage homes can endure during colder months. If you have a home located in a snowy climate, it can be wise to learn how to protect your property against Mother Nature in wintertime.

Types of Damage

Wintertime might bring beautiful scenery, but ice and frigid temperatures can take a toll on a home. When it comes to damages, homeowners with property in blizzard conditions often experience:

• Frozen pipes
• Ice dams
• Roof damage

When the temperature drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, it is common for the extreme cold to freeze and burst unprotected household pipes. Another problem that occurs is the uneven freezing of water on the edges of the roof. As snow melts, ice dams form, and this blocks standing water from freely flowing. With that in mind, the gutters are not the only upper issue. Roof damage is also common.

How To Prevent Damage
Because repairs can be extensive and costly, one of the best things you can do is to take steps to prevent problems before you have to call a winter storm damage remediation expert. Winterization refers to the process of preparing your home for winter weather. During winterization, you can check your roof tiles, clear your gutters and insulate any exposed piping. Look for any air leaks around the house that you can seal and trim surrounding trees that might break.
Everyone has heard about the fun of a "winter wonderland," but a winter storm does not always lead to a joyous time. Instead, wintery conditions can cause significant damages to homes without proper planning. For this reason, it can be a good idea to take the time to winterize your home so you can spend more time having fun building a snowman.

3 Things Not To Do When Your Home Floods

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in Belton, MO

When you discover water flowing from a broken pipe in your home, you must address the problem immediately. There are steps to take right away and some things you should not do as well.

Things Not to Do When Your House Floods

Flood water is not always clean or safe. Protect yourself and your family by not doing the following:

• Do not use electronics in the affected area. When there is flooding in your Belton, MO, home, turn off the power for all the affected rooms to avoid electrocution. Do not vacuum the water, and do not enter the area before you have shut off the electricity.
• Do not leave wet items in the area. When the water in home areas is from a broken pipe, remove any soaked rugs, books, clothing, blankets, upholstered furniture or other belongings. Start allowing them to dry as soon as possible.
• Do not clean sewer water yourself. If the flood is due to a sewer backup, do not enter the area without protective gear and boots. Do not attempt to clean the area, as the water may contain bacteria and viruses. Contact specialized restoration professionals who can safely clean with specific equipment and disinfectants.

Steps To Take When Flooding Occurs

Document the damage. If it is safe to enter the room, take video or photographs for your insurance company.
Take precautions to ensure your safety. Do not turn on the lights or touch any electrical appliances until the breaker is off. Wear protective equipment if you are unsure if the water is clean. Do not enter rooms with sagging ceilings or other apparent structural damage.
Call a water damage restoration company. Enlist the help of trained specialists to clean and dry your home from top-to-bottom. They are skilled in handling water-related emergencies with the right knowledge and equipment to restore your home to normal quickly and efficiently.

A broken pipe causes much stress, headache, and frustration. It is essential to restore and clean your home correctly and safely.

How to Choose the Right Restoration Contractor

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Harrisonville, MO

Here Are Some Ways To Vet Potential Companies

After your business in Harrisonville, MO, sees fire damage, choosing the right restoration professionals is one way to ensure your peace of mind. Here are some ways to vet potential companies.

Check Their Past Work
The best way to check out a restoration company is to look at their past work. Ask for a list of their previous clients. Check on the most recent projects. Talk to the clients and ask about their experience with the company. Ask the following questions to get a thorough idea:

• Did they give you an accurate estimate?
• Were you satisfied with their work?
• Was the project completed on time and within your budget?
• Were there any mistakes?
• Do you recommend the company?

Verify Their Licenses
Licenses are important in the restoration industry. For intensive jobs that require structural work or plumbing repairs, you will need to have a licensed professional perform the tasks. Choosing a company that is licensed will ensure that you get top quality work. Additionally, hiring an unlicensed contractor will make you responsible for any issues. In other words, you are responsible for defective work, property damage, or injuries during the restoration project.

Verify Their Certifications
Most people will only ask to see the contractor's license. They will only hold a general contractor's license because there is no specific restoration license. However, most of the fire damage assessment and restoration work is specialized, and the company should have the appropriate certifications for the work they are doing.

Check Their Insurance
Restoration companies often work directly with a client's insurance adjuster. Therefore, they know a lot about insurance and how important it is. Accidents can happen during a fire damage restoration project, especially if the fire has caused structural integrity problems. To ensure you are adequately protected, ask for proof of insurance.
Choosing the right fire mitigation and restoration professionals can be a challenging task. However, it is also crucial. Follow these steps for a guide to find the right company.

Tips To Handle Black Mold Damage

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial mold growth

Tips You Can Use In Case Of Mold Damage In Your Building

If your commercial building in Belton, MO, has experienced any kind of black mold growth, water damage or mold damage, you may be wondering how to deal with it. Aside from calling a mold remediation company and mitigating damages, there are many tips that can help you keep the damage to a minimum during and after the remediation process. Here are a few tips that you can use in case of mold damage in your building.

Get Rid of Moisture
Moisture is what mold needs in order to thrive, so by eliminating moisture, you can reduce mold growth and damage. If your building has a moisture problem, it is recommended that you do not install carpeting or other materials that are prone to mold growth. Reduce moisture by:

• Drying any areas of moisture after a storm or water leak
  
• Removing any standing water
  
• Replacing any items or materials with water damage
  
  

Removing moisture and drying any wet materials should be done within the first 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.

Know the Warning Signs
The more obvious sign of black mold in your commercial building is a musty smell. Other warning signs may be black spots, odd colors and visible growth. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to take the right precautions and call professionals to mitigate damages and begin the mold cleanup process.

Locate and Stop the Source
Whether you have water damage resulting from a storm or plumbing issue, stopping the water source will prevent mold growth. Getting to the root of the problem as quickly as possible can help stop mold before it begins to grow. Stopping the source may be as simple as tightening a leaky pipe or may require a professional service to fix a leak or plumbing issue.
If your commercial building has black mold or other mold growth, it's important to know the best tips to deal with it as quickly as possible.

How to Prevent Plumbing Problems Before They Start

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Perform a regular inspection in your building

Ways To Prevent Water Damage

Plumbing problems at your facility in Harrisonville, MO, sometimes have a way of sneaking up on you. Unfortunately, even a small water leak can cause damage before you know it's there. Here are ways you can prevent water damage from catching you off guard.

Find a Reputable Plumber
The best time to find a reliable plumbing company is before you have a problem. You don't want to scramble around at the last minute to find an available plumber after you have a broken pipe or other major water leak. Doing some research ahead of time will pay off when you have an emergency. To find a good plumber, try:

• Asking friends and colleagues for references
  
• Reading online reviews
  
• Checking with the Better Business Bureau
  
  

When an emergency happens, you'll have someone dependable to contact.

Schedule Regular Maintenance
It's a good idea to have a plumber perform regular inspections in your facility. During an inspection, an experienced plumber can assess the piping in your building and let you know what condition it is in. Many issues are caused by plumbing that is old, improperly installed or made from poor-quality materials. You may find that upgrading or replacing some piping will prevent plumbing problems in the future.

Watch Your Water Bill
Many times water damage goes unseen until it's too late. A running toilet, leaky water main or seeping pipe can wreak havoc on your facility and cost you thousands of dollars before you know it. If your water bill increases suddenly, it could point to a hidden problem. Have a plumber inspect your building. If you find water damage, a professional remediation company can mitigate the situation before more serious problems set in.
Keeping up with maintenance and taking care of plumbing problems right away will help you avoid major damage and keep your facility in Harrisonville, MO, up and running.

What To Look For In a Mold Remediation Company

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Seek out a certified mold damage restoration company in Harrisonville, MO

When mold is growing in a residence in Harrisonville, MO, hiring a certified mold company for remediation is the best option for a homeowner. Learn more about the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification and how a major restoration company keeps cleanup specialists at locations across the continent at the top of the mold cleanup game.

IICRC Mold Certification

The American National Standards Institute publishes standard S520 and the IICRC publishes the coordinating restoration industry standard R520. The ANSI/IICRC S520 standard includes all of the following information:

• Building and material science
  
• Mold cleaning equipment
  
• Inspection procedures
  
• Mold remediation principles
  
• Potential complications
  
  

A technician who has mold certification may specialize in structural, HVAC, or content remediation. Indoor environmental professionals are trained in taking air, batch or surface samples to be submitted for laboratory analysis to identify the species of mold present in a home. At least one IICRC-trained technician may work at each franchise location of a certified restoration company.

Continuing Certified Mold Training
A major restoration franchise can provide continuing education based on the latest IICRC standards to technicians. Technicians are trained in proper use of the latest antifungal solutions, mold cleaning equipment and methods to provide consistent, industry-leading service at any location.

Professional Mold Cleaning Equipment
The equipment that a large damage restoration and mold remediation company with locations across North America has access to surpasses most local remediation services. If mold cleaning equipment is in use or being serviced, the same model of equipment can be sourced from another franchise location. A large IICRC-affiliated certified mold remediation provider is a homeowner’s best option for complete and fast mold removal and restoration.
Homeowners should seek out a certified mold damage restoration company near Harrisonville, MO. A service that specializes in residential properties can provide all of the containment and cleaning equipment and expertise needed for successful remediation.

3 Factors Affecting the Cost of Mold Remediation

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Mold removal in

Black Mold Removal

Finding mold in your home in Harrisonville, MO, is likely to inspire less than positive thoughts in any person. Chances are, you will start researching mold removal or looking for a professional cleanup company shortly after spotting it. You may be wondering how much of a dent this will put in your wallet. Regardless of whether you need black mold removal or the removal of other kinds of mold, there are certain factors that determine how high the cost is.

1. Area the Mold Covers
Both the size and the location of the area the mold is growing on affects the price. The greater the amount of mold present in your home is, the greater the cost to remove it will be since it requires more labor and time to deal with. Location matters because mold removal in certain spots needs special cleaning that is generally pricier. Such locations include:

• Air conditioning systems
  
• Heater systems
  
• Ventilation systems
  
  

2. Cause of the Mold
What promoted the mold's growth also matters. If the mold exists because of flooding from contaminated sources like a septic tank flood, the treatment will naturally be more costly. Sewage and other dangerous substances make the process more difficult.

3. Extent of the Damage
If the damage caused by the mold is extensive, it can also cause a rise in price. Mold damage like rotten wood beneath the mold must also be dealt with, tacking on extra expenses to the final bill. Moldy components of homes like walls and carpets may have to be torn out and replaced if the harm has spread too much to be fixed, further adding to the mold remediation cost.
In general, the worse your mold problem is, the more mold removal and treatment will cost. Existing damage, the type of water that has spurred on the mold's growth, where the mold is and how widespread the mold is cause the cost to vary on a case by case basis.

5 Ways to Prevent Water Damage While on Vacation

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

This is the easiest way to prevent water damage

Simple Methods Could Be Enough To Save Your Property From Disaster

Few things are more frustrating than returning home from a lovely vacation just to find that your Harrisonville, MO, home flooded while you were gone. Simple tactics, such as a water pipe repair, a gutter sweep and several other methods could be enough to save your property from disaster.

1. Shut Off Your Main Water Valve.
This is the easiest way to prevent water damage. Turn off the main valve right before you leave for vacation to prevent water from entering your home. After you do so, test to see whether you were successful by turning on a faucet.

2. Clear Out Your Gutters.
Your home's gutters are intended to catch water running off of your roof and divert it away from your property. When they become obstructed, water pools on the roof and runs down the sides of your home, resulting in a flooded basement. You should regularly clear out your gutters, but make sure to also do so before you leave for vacation.

3. Prevent Freezing Pipes.
Always take your region's temperature into consideration. If you plan to leave during the colder months, make sure to turn your home's heat up to at least 60 degrees while you're gone to prevent the pipes from freezing.

4. Upgrade to Stainless Steel Supply Lines.
Plastic supply lines are significantly more likely to rupture while you're away. Upgrading to stainless steel can help prevent a broken pipe. The good news is that these supply lines are not costly to replace, and are significantly less expensive than an unnecessary water pipe repair job.

5. Shut Off Valves to Major Appliances.
You should have already shut off your main water valve, but you can never be too careful. Make sure to turn off the valves for major appliances, such as your washing machine and dishwasher. You should also shut off the supply valves for your toilets and sinks.
Preventing unnecessary damage is significantly easier than having to deal with bigger issues, like a water pipe repair or a flood. Contact water remediation experts for more information and assistance protecting your home from water damage.

How To Get the Most From Your Business's Storm Insurance Policy

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Floods affect building in Belton, MO

What Steps To Take In Case Of A Storm?

Dealing with storm damage in Belton, MO, can be taxing, but it may be made even worse if your insurance isn't properly used. No one wants to experience financial difficulties stemming from property damage. Because of this, it's important to know what steps to take in case of a storm. Here are a couple of ways to get the most out of your company's storm insurance policy.

Understand Your Policy
Before you can wield your insurance policy, you must understand it. Commercial building insurance usually covers the following:

• Wind and hail
  
• Robbery
  
• Fire
  
• Vandalism
  
  

There are many storm-related damages that most insurance companies don't cover. This usually lies in the realm of flooding. Since flooding makes up a large percentage of most storm-caused damages, it's essential to know if this is covered. If flooding isn't in your insurance policy, find a back-up plan should this damage ever occur. Once you know your insurance coverage, make sure that you understand what to do. If monetary assistance is needed rapidly, you'll want to go through the insurance process quickly.

Document the Damage
In order to receive any monetary assistance with the damage to your building, you'll need to document each problem fully. Thoroughly search your property for issues caused by the storm. Once something is found, write it down and take a picture. Be sure that an adjuster is sent over. This individual will help to decide what gets covered by your storm insurance. Have a detailed summary of any and all damages ready when the adjuster comes. If storm damage restoration needs to occur before the insurance company can respond, keep each proof of purchase. This level of documentation will make it difficult to ignore any impairment or reimbursement.
A debilitating storm is often difficult to recover from, but it doesn't need to ruin your finances. If you know how to fully use your storm insurance, your business will be one step closer to recuperation.

How Do I Keep My Building Secure After a Fire?

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Having a camera on your building can provide your property with a significant security boost during a fire cleanup

Reasons You Should Have A Plan In Place To Protect Your Building After a Fire

Having a fire in your commercial property can be a devastating reminder that things can change quickly. Once a fire has been extinguished, your property becomes vulnerable to looters and vandals looking to take advantage of your misfortune. This is why you should have a plan in place to protect your remaining possessions after your building has sustained fire damage.

1. Relocate Valuables
This may sound obvious, but there are probably items in your property that you haven't even considered removing. Important documents, hard drives, and other items that you can easily move should be relocated to a more secure location. Take a moment to consider which documents, data, or valuables would be missed if lost to looting.

2. Board Up Doors and Windows
If your building has visibly suffered fire damage, it is a potential target for looters. Boarding up windows and weakened doors with plywood is a simple, cost-effective way to prevent unwanted intruders from entering your property. Sealing entryways will prevent rain and other precipitation from damaging interior surfaces. It will also prevent animals from mistaking your space as a convenient location to nest or hide in.

3. Invest in Inexpensive Surveillance Equipment
Having a camera on your building—even a fake one—can provide your property with a significant security boost during a fire cleanup. Criminals are often easily deterred by the presence of a camera. Similarly, signs indicating that an area is under surveillance can make a potential robber think twice before trespassing. Functioning security cameras are cheaper than ever before and having one installed can help you to reclaim your valuable possessions if lost.
If your Harrisonville, MO, commercial property has suffered a fire, you are probably overwhelmed by the restoration process. Securing your property can be difficult, and a fire restoration professional can help advise you on steps you can take to prevent further loss.

5 Steps To Take After Water Damage at Your Business

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Belton, MO

Here Are Five Steps You Should Consider

After broken pipes lead to water damage at your Belton, MO, business it’s important to act quickly to prevent long term problems such as warped wood, cracked stone or mold. 

1. Contact a Professional

One of the first steps to take after damage is found is to contact a restoration service. These professionals can help with water cleanup and repairs. They should have the tools and training needed to perform every step of the restoration process.

2. Remove the Water

The first step is to remove the water from the affected area as quickly as possible. This can be done with a pump or water-rated shop vacuum. You may also want to use a squeegee to pull water out of any tight spaces.

3. Dry the Area

The next step is to thoroughly dry the area. This is done to help prevent further water damage. In many cases your restoration service will use a dehumidifier to help pull water out of the air as well, which can help speed the process.,

4. Locate the Source

Before repairs can begin it’s important to locate the source of the water that caused the damages in the first place. If this step is not done then there is a chance that future damages could occur and ruin any repairs that are made.

5. Fix the Problem

Once the source of the damage is located it’s important to fix the problem as quickly as possible. This will help ensure that no further damages occur. Once this is done repairs to the affected area can be made.

After water damage affects your business remember to use these five steps. Contact a professional, remove the water, dry the space, locate the source of the problem and take the appropriate restoration steps. These steps can help you to get the area back to pre-damage conditions.

Types of Flood Water Contamination

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Category 2 water damage comes from a dirty water source

Which Type Of Water Is Flooding Your Home?

While all types of floods are capable of inflicting massive amounts of water damage on your property, some are just inherently more dangerous than others. Floods are classified according to one of three categories, depending on which types of contaminants are present in the water. Read on to see which type of water is flooding your home in Belton, MO.

1. Category 1: Clean Water Floods
Much like the name implies, Category 1 floods are characterized by an absence of contaminants. It is possible for these types of floods to transform into more dangerous varieties if outside contaminants are introduced to the water. Clean water floods are typically caused by:

• Supply line bursts
  
• Leaky pipes
  
• Rain water or snow melt
  
  

2. Category 2: Gray Water Floods
Category 2 floods do contain mild amounts of contamination, but not enough to be considered a biohazard. If left untreated for 48 hours, a Category 2 flood can quickly become a Category 3. Gray water floods are usually a result of:

• Sump pump failures
  
• Malfunctioning household appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines
  
• Broken aquariums
  
  

3. Category 3: Black Water Floods
Category 3 floods are the most dangerous types of floods. They're categorized by the presence of human/animal fecal matter, raw sewage, dangerous chemicals and other types of biohazards. These floods are extremely dangerous and can inflict massive amounts of water damage, so you should never attempt to remediate them on your own. They're often caused by:

• Toilet back flow
  
• Sewage overflow
  
• Rising groundwater
  
• Overflowing banks from rivers or streams
  
  

It's important to take all types of water damage seriously, but you need to be especially wary of damage caused by black water floods. If not treated properly, the situation will only get worse and worse. It's best to contact flood remediation experts if your property has been affected by Category 3 flooding.

Prepare To Fix a Basement Flood With These 3 Tips

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

Resolving a basement flood can get complicated, but it is not impossible with a plan

Prepare To Fix a Basement Flood With These 3 Tips

Several reasons can cause a basement flood, from weather incidents in Harrisonville, MO, to mechanical failures. A flood devastates your home by damaging the building and any valuables and electronics you keep in the area. While a water damage remediation service and insurance coverage can help you, early preparation can improve repair efforts.

1. Set Up Anti-Flood Precautions
The best way to fix a flood is to prevent it in the first place. A sump pump is an essential resource, but it can also fail when you need it the most. Upgrade this device with a generator to keep it running when electric power is out. An additional pump is also helpful when dealing with a flooded basement. There are other precautions that can help diminish the impact, such as foundation drains and ground sloping.

2. Reduce Hazards and Dangers
Before you deal with a basement flood, you might want to assess all potential hazards in the area. Track all the electronic devices and gas appliances and make sure they have no dangerous defects. Avoid going through the flood if it reaches the electrical outlets, as water easily conducts electricity. If you must, wear rubber boots and gloves, but otherwise, let professional electricians turn off the house's power so you can safely drain the excess water from the location.

3. Prioritize What To Salvage
There are many useful and beloved items in your basement that you will want to save. However, some of them are not worth wasting time. Mechanical and electrical equipment will not work when wet and require replacement. You will also need to change wet drywall, but you can reuse intact sections. When it comes to carpet, paintings, and other items, it depends on the specific damage and the materials' reaction to flood water. Try to keep your valuables on upper floors to minimize damage.
Resolving a basement flood can get complicated, but it is not impossible with a plan. Take the right precautions to make the clean-up and repair processes easier.

How to Remove Shower Mold

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning shower mold in Belton, MO

Showers are capable of producing a lot of water and humidity, which creates an ideal breeding ground for mold. Because of this, shower mold is actually one of the most common places to find residential mold. If you do find mold in your bathroom, it's vital that you resolve the issue as soon as possible. Mold can spread quickly and is very tough to get rid of for good once it takes root. Follow the below steps to help keep your bathroom in Belton, MO clean.

Getting Rid of Shower Mold

You should be able to take care of smaller black mold cases yourself relatively easily using the following technique:

• Create a solution using 1 part bleach and 2 parts water. Put this into an empty spray bottle.
  
• Spray the moldy areas and allow the solution to sit for 5-10 minutes.
  
• Use a coarse brush or kitchen sponge to scrub the solution off. You can use an old toothbrush for hard to reach areas.
  
• Rinse away the solution and leftover mold once you're done scrubbing.
  
  

Bleach is not often recommended for treating mold growth, but this is mainly due to the fact that it is only capable of cleaning surfaces. Showers are naturally waterproof, so any mold that you do find there only sits on the surface, making bleach effective in this specific case. If you still don't trust bleach, you can opt to use baking soda and white vinegar instead.

Preventing Bathroom Mold
Keeping your bathroom surfaces clean and dry is the best way to prevent mold growth. Make sure you're wiping down your shower tiles and drying any leftover puddles every time you take a shower. Close your shower curtains, instead of leaving it bunched up in the corner, to help aid the drying process as well.
Shower mold is extremely common. Luckily, it's not especially difficult to get rid of. The above technique can help you clean mold out of your shower drain, grout, caulk, and curtains. If the routine is ineffective, or the mold growth has spread out of your control, you need to contact mold remediation experts immediately.

What To Know About Smoke Alarm Maintenance in Your Home

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Maintaining a smoke alarm involves a few simple things

Smoke Alarm Maintenance

Many fire damage restoration services recommend smoke alarms as an important prevention measure as they can alert you to a possible fire in your Harrisonville, MO, in time to put it out. However, in order to do its job a smoke alarm must be properly maintained. Here are a few things you should know about this process.

1. What May Need To Be Done

When maintaining a smoke detector it’s important to understand what may need to be done. In most cases the process is as simple as keeping the unit clean so it can properly sense a fire, and changing the batteries annually.

2. When To Do Perform Maintenance Tasks

Most professionals recommend service your smoke alarm annually. Many people choose to do so at daylight savings as this day occurs at approximately the same time every year and is easy to remember. If a different time works better for you you can choose that day instead. It’s also important to keep in mind that most alarm units last for about eight years, so if your alarm is older than that you should replace it entirely.

3. How to Take Care of Your Alarms

Knowing how to maintain your alarms can be equally important as you don’t want to damage the electronics. The outside of the units can be wiped off with a damp cloth while the slides will need to be dusted out with compressed air. In some cases, the manufacturer will have additional instructions. After cleaning you may want to test the alarm to ensure it remains functional. You can do this by pressing the test button and listening for the appropriate sound.

Maintaining a smoke alarm involves a few simple things. Know what may need to be done with the smoke detectors such as batteries, cleaning, and installation locations. Understand that these tasks should be done at least once a year, and know what the best methods are to keep them maintained. Remember, a working alarm can help keep your home safe.

Three Winter Storm Preparation Suggestions

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Roof damage in a commercial building

How to Prepare Your Business for a Storm in Wintertime

Preparing a business in Harrisonville, MO for a winter storm may be an intimidating task. However, if a business owner is adequately prepared, the chances of sustaining storm damage can be significantly reduced. Here are three suggestions to consider to prepare a business for a storm in the wintertime.

1. Check the Building for Any Needed Repairs

It may be a good idea to begin preparations early, before the winter season arrives. Assessing a commercial building for any obvious damage that needs repairs is a great place to start. For example, a roof that needs to be fixed, or other issues with the structural integrity of the building should be evaluated and repaired if necessary. A snowstorm with lots of accumulating snow may create massive amounts of weight on the roof of a building, which may create a hazardous situation due to a potential roof collapse.

2. Insulation is Important

Ensuring that the business is properly insulated may be another beneficial task to complete prior to a winter storm in order to keep any employees that are in the building safe and warm. Checking all the windows and doorways is also very important to help keep cold air out of the building during a blizzard. Additionally, if a business loses electricity during a storm, having a generator to support the heat and lights can be very helpful.

3. Communication is Critical

Communication with employees is crucial. Having a plan in place in the event of an emergency may help to provide safety and security for employees. A business may consider having a “disaster preparedness drill,” which could involve a meeting place for anyone who is working at the time of an emergency during a storm.

Preparation is incredibly important. However, if damage does occur during a winter storm, professionals who specialize in disaster restoration and cleanup can be called. After the cleanup work is completed due to any blizzard or storm damage, the business will look “Like it never even happened."

When You Need Commercial Flood Insurance

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Flood insurance is essential for your business

Purchasing Flood Insurance

If you are a business owner, you know how important it is to be prepared. You don't know when disaster may strike, but you can have the protection and backing of an insurance policy. It could be helpful to purchase flood insurance. In fact, in certain cases, you might be required by law to have this coverage. You can spare yourself and your Belton, MO, organization a lot of grief by having the right commercial plan.

What it Covers

A regular commercial insurance policy will help cover the costs of repairing damage due to a fire, storms, left or vandalism. Commercial property coverage will help with water damage as a result of a pipe burst or a malfunctioning appliance. However, other types of flooding require an additional flood policy. This will cover the following:

• Flooding from a sewer backup
  
• Flooding from a broken main water line
  
• Flooding from an overflowing waterway.
  
  

When You Need it: Your Building is in a High-Risk Area
Not all businesses need a flood insurance policy. If your facility is located in a place where flooding is rare, the law won't require this. However, if your building is in an area prone to flooding or where a flood is more likely, you must carry a flood policy. This may include building your facility on the banks of a river or lake. If you are in other flood zones such as on or near rising water tables, you may be required to purchase supplemental flood coverage.

Certain Mortgages
You will also need a flood policy if you have a mortgage on the property from a federally regulated or insured lender. If you are not sure whether you fall into this category, check with the lender as you begin to secure financing.
A professional flood cleanup company can help you restore your building. To get the financial help you need to recovery, flood insurance is essential.

How To Protect Your Rental Property from Mold Development

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Leaking water sources must be fixed before mold remediation starts

Landlords Should Build The Following Three Things Into The Rental Contract

When tenants lease space, property owners in Belton, MO, should take the time to explain the importance of mold prevention. After all, both parties should desire to keep the premises in good condition, avoiding unnecessary cleanings and costly closures. Not everyone, though, understands the measures required to protect the space properly. For this reason, landlords should be upfront about expectations and build the following three things into the rental contract.

1. Maintain Air Circulation
Spores live everywhere. They float in the air and adhere to objects. When they interact with moisture, the microbes become problematic. At that point, mold growth begins and quickly spreads throughout the facility within 24 to 48 hours. Therefore, humidity and air circulation control is vital to inhibiting development. The air conditioner encourages property levels, pulling out the excess liquid from the air. It should be run regularly to establish cooler, drier temperatures. If the heater is running, turn it lower.

2. Schedule Regular Maintenance Checks
Early detection is key in mold prevention. Work with tenants to regularly review the structure, making sure that systems are functioning correctly. Twice a year the roof should be evaluated, looking for holes or damaged shingles. The HVAC unit should be serviced biannually with the vent system checked and scrubbed. Finally, those working in the facility should monitor all plumbing, reporting back any changes such as rust, rings or drips.

3. Fix Leaks Immediately
When something amiss is found, repairs should occur as soon as possible. Cut off the water supply. Cover up any openings. The lingering water damage only fosters fungus reproduction. Tenants should report concerns through appropriate channels. Mold remediation companies can come in, identify the source, and restore the room's condition. Be aware that contaminated sections should be extricated, reducing spore levels and exposure.
Be specific about mold prevention methods. All parties should be clear about how to safeguard the establishment.

Common Water Issues in Commercial Buildings

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Ceiling damage after a pipe break in Harrisonville, MO

Common Water Issues That May Affect Your Building

Leaking pipes are a hassle for any commercial property owner. Without proper maintenance and timely repairs, damage and subsequent cleanup can be costly and time-consuming. Stay on top of water issues and address them as they arise. Common water issues that may affect your building in Harrisonville, MO, are:

1. Foundation Damage
Damage to the foundation of a building can lead to major problems if left unchecked. Plumbing issues are often at fault for foundation damage. As tree roots grow, they may intrude on pipes and affect the plumbing system. Plumbing issues can cause poor drainage and soil displacement that can then weaken the foundation and cause it to shift and crack. The compromised foundation can then lead to additional plumbing issues as well as loss of structural integrity and cracks in the walls of your building.

2. Deteriorated Sewer Lines
Noticeable sewer gas odors, frequent toilet backup issues, and commonly clogged drains may be indicators that sewer lines in your commercial building have deteriorated. Sewer backups can be a serious and messy issue. Cleanup can be very unpleasant. Professional sewage cleanup and restoration services may be of help in addressing this distasteful problem.

3. Water Pipe Damage
A burst pipe can cause extensive property damage. Occasionally these leaks are not immediately noticeable. Bulging walls and water-stained ceiling tiles may be indicators that something has happened to the pipes that are out of your sight. Investigate these situations when they arise to identify leaking pipes as soon as possible. Address a pipe break immediately to minimize the amount of water damage to floors, ceilings, and walls. Initiate cleanup procedures as soon as possible to lessen the chance of a mold or mildew infestation.
Plumbing issues, leaking pipes, and toilet backups should be addressed in a commercial property as soon as problems are detected. The sooner problems are fixed, the less damage to the property.

Do You Suspect You Have a Mold Problem: How To Be Sure

8/6/2020 (Permalink)

Do You Suspect You Have a Mold Problem?

Is there a musty odor permeating through your ductwork or from your basement? Is there a fuzzy, colorful substance growing behind your water heater? While an indoor environmental specialist may be the best expert to validate your suspicion of mold, there are ways to tell if your fungal suspicions are on the right track.

1. Smell

Mold has a unique smell. It is musty and dank. Typically, when you encounter mold the air is humid and thick. While musty can mean several things to different people, the best way to describe the musty odor of mold is stuffy and stale, and that is because mold usually develops in areas that are not well ventilated.

2. Look

Mold growth is unique in appearance. Most mold will rise above the surface of the material it is growing on, and it will look fuzzy, almost soft. Also, mold is quite colorful. It is found in gradients of green, gray and yellow. However, it may also take on the color of other chemicals and liquids that have spilled nearby. To definitively conclude that you have mold, however, you will likely need an indoor environmental specialist.

3. Humidity

As stated above, humidity and a lack of ventilation contribute to the development of fungus. Therefore, if you have an area of your property that is unusually humid without proper ventilation, then you have an area that is prime real estate for mold spore settlements.

4. Test

A mold remediation specialist in the Harrisonville, MO, area can take samples and perform a mold test to find out if you are in fact dealing with an infestation. The truth is, not all fungal deposits are mold, and there are times when something may look like mold but is actually a calcium deposit or something else entirely. Tests are the only surefire way to prove something is mold.

While you can base your assessment off smells, looks and environmental conditions, an indoor environmental specialist is likely your best shot at verifying your suspicions of mold growth. Don’t risk your property or health. Call an expert and ask for a test.

What To Do About Bathtub Backup

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

The sight of water and/or sewage coming up from the drain of your bathtub or shower in Belton, MO, can be quite alarming. Bathtub backup is a serious problem, and while you should try to refrain from panicking, you should nevertheless take quick action to diagnose and correct the problem.

Why Does Bathtub Backup Occur?

Backup into the bathtub usually indicates a problem with the main sewer line of your home. Common causes include the following:

• Clogs due to paper products, grease buildup, toys, etc.
• Blockages due to tree roots
• Flooding due to excess rain
  

Can You Clean Up the Backup on Your Own?

Sometimes, but only under certain circumstances. It helps to know whether it is sewer backup or backup from the sink. If the latter, you may be able to handle the cleanup on your own because there is less chance of exposure to harmful bacteria.

If the backup occurred recently, i.e., within 24 hours of discovery, you may be able to handle the cleanup yourself. This is because any bacteria that may be present hasn't had time to proliferate.

If there is a good thing about bathtub backup, it is that the walls of the tub serve to contain the wastewater. This containment makes it more feasible for you to handle cleanup on your own.

When Should You Call a Professional?

You should call restoration and cleanup professionals if the backup contains raw sewage. This may be the case if it occurs when you flush the toilet, if it is brown in color, or if it is accompanied by a foul smell. Regardless of the source of the backup, you should call a cleanup professional if it is 24 hours old or more. While a bathtub may serve to contain the wastewater, backup in a shower stall may spread all over the bathroom floor and into the rest of the house. The more widespread the flooding is, the more necessary it becomes to hire professional cleanup.

Don't take chances with a potential sewer backup. If you have any doubts as to whether you can handle the cleanup yourself, contact a professional right away.

Flood Proof Your House in 5 Easy Steps

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Apply waterproof sealant in your home

Tips To Flood Proof Your Home

Flooding is a big enough problem on its own. The fact that it can often cause further consequential issues makes it even more serious. When it comes to flood safety, prevention is your biggest ally. Follow these easy safety tips to help flood proof your home in Harrisonville, MO.

1. Keep important documents and possessions on elevated surfaces: Floodwater starts low before rising, so the best way to keep your stuff dry is to store it as high as you can. Move important possessions to high shelves on the top floor of your house, just to be safe.

2. Move in-home electrical systems above flood level: The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety recommends that all electrical equipment, such as switches, circuit breakers and wiring, sit at least a foot above your home's flood level. Staying away from electrified water is a basic flood safety principle.

3. Upgrade your water valves: A sewage flood is a biohazard, and therefore significantly more dangerous than an average flood. To prevent sewage backflow from entering your home, you should install either an interior/exterior backflow valve or a gate valve.

4. Control the flow of water around your house: Ideally, your house should sit higher than the surrounding landscape so water can flow away from the property. This isn't always the case, so take care to monitor the direction the water flows in after a storm. If it's directed towards your house, you should contact your local environmental services department.

5. Apply waterproof sealant: A sealant can be applied to both the interior and exterior of your home. This can help keep rainwater out as well as flooding.
While these flood safety tips can certainly lower your home's risk of flooding, they can't prevent a disaster entirely. It's vital that you contact storm remediation experts if you do become the victim of a flood.

How Much Does Mold Remediation Cost?

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

Mold remediation in Belton, MO

Mold in your Belton, MO, home is a serious problem that must be addressed right away. You may be wondering how much this mold removal will cost. Read on for more details.

Mold Inspection

Before you hire someone to clean up the mold, you should first bring in a mold inspector to survey the extent of the damage. You typically have to pay $200 to $600 for an inspector's visit. He may also charge you an additional $30 to $150 for each air sample he takes of your home. Ideally, the inspector should:

• Have an undergraduate degree in engineering or science
  
• Have completed industry-approved mold investigation courses
  
• Be a Council-Certified Indoor Environmental
• Consultant or a Certified Industrial Hygienist
  
  

Mold Remediation
If tests do confirm that there is mold in your home, your next step should be hiring mold removal and remediation professionals. They will disinfect the affected sections of your home, including the carpets and walls. Severe infestations may require the removal of studs and drywall, as well.
Mold growth in your crawl space may only cost $500 to address, though it can set you back up to $4,000 if the damage is extensive. Eliminating mold from ducts, attics and walls, meanwhile, could cost between $2,000 and $6,000. Widespread black mold removal could require you to spend $30,000 or more.
Keep in mind that insurance does not always cover mold remediation expenses. Unless the mold growth resulted from a sudden emergency, you will likely have to pay for the cleanup yourself.
The cost of mold removal depends on the extent of the problem. Small infestations may only set you back a few hundred dollars. Depending on the cause of the mold, your insurance may cover some of this expense. However, larger areas of mold can lead to thousands of dollars in damage. To avoid spending your hard-earned money on costly repairs, be sure to quickly address any wet areas in your home that can encourage the growth of mold.

Treating Workplace Burns

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Minor Burn First Aid

Burns can happen almost anywhere, and those that happen in the workplace can be as destructive to productivity as fire damage. Understanding basic first aid can ease pain and help you return to work quickly.

Burns That Require Emergency Assistance

Some burns are too serious to be safely handled at home or at work. Always seek emergency medical assistance if you or another person have any of the following:

• Leathery, dry skin
  
• A wound that is deeper than the upper layer of skin
  
• A burn that covers the surface of extremities, or is wider than 3 inches
  
• Black, brown, or white charring
  
  

If you or someone else require medical assistance, always make sure that the person is safe and responsive until medical help arrives. Elevate affected areas, and use a moist, clean dressing at room temperature or below to cover wounds.

Minor Burn First Aid
Minor burns are burns that are minor enough to be treated without the attention of a medical professional. These burns are generally less painful than serious ones, but can be diagnosed when the following signs emerge:

• Limited surface area, normally less than 3 inches wide
  
• Reddish appearance
  
• Bubbling or blistering
  
• Discomfort
  
  

Many causes of burns, such as hot plates, boiling water, or open fire damage skin even after the heat source is removed. You can cool a burn by applying a moderately cool compress, or holding the burn under moderately cool water. It is always important to avoid damaging burned areas, as breaks in the skin can introduce bacteria that cause infections. As with any surface injury, applying a medical quality bandage will protect skin from further wear.
If you or a co-worker have sustained a burn during a workplace fire in Harrisonville, MO, you should first contact appropriate authorities to ensure that all personnel is properly cared for. The next step will often include a consultation with a restoration specialist to assess the extent of fire damage. By taking safety seriously, you make sure that you and your team can get back to business.

4 Tips for Better Use of Fire Alarms

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

You should replace batteries as needed and replace the entire alarm about every 8 to 10 years

Tips To Help You Protect Your Home

You might think you are doing everything right when it comes to having a fire alarm in your home in Harrisonville, MO. However, many people make assumptions about fire protection that turn out to be erroneous and that could even put their house and their family at risk. After all, a home fire is a scary event that can cause thousands of dollars of damage. Here are a few tips to help you protect your home.

1. Have Enough Fire Alarms. Having only one fire alarm is not nearly enough. The National Fire Protection Association recommends an alarm in each bedroom, one outside each sleeping area and one on every level of the home.

2. Replace Batteries and Alarms. To ward off fire damage, you should replace batteries as needed and replace the entire alarm about every 8 to 10 years. To be sure, check the packaging instructions and make a reminder on the inside of the alarm with a permanent marker.

3. Know-How Much Time You Have. When a fire strikes, it is important to get everyone out of the house quickly. Studies have shown that for increased safety you and your family members and pets should evacuate the home in little more than three minutes.

4. Understand How Fire Alarms Work. You can buy either an ionization alarm or a photostatic one and they detect a fire in different ways. For the best protection, buy some of each or an alarm that uses both methods.
A fire alarm is a critical tool to help you avoid or minimize the worst effects of a fire. A fire remediation franchise can help you recover from fire and smoke damage in your home. Experienced technicians will use the latest technology to remove soot and odors, and they will restore or replace damaged belongings. They have a proven process that restores your home to its original condition.

How SERVPRO Can Help With the Insurance Claim Process

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

Filing and working through an insurance claim is not as easy as it sounds

How SERVPRO Can Help With the Insurance Claim Process

Filing and working through an insurance claim is not as easy as it sounds. While an insurance agent can work through the claims process on their own, some disaster restoration companies in Belton, MO, like SERVPRO, want to make the process easier and a team effort through an electronic claims system.

The Claims Information Center is beneficial for several reasons.

1. Accessibility

2. Data Storage

3. Processing

Accessibility
The primary goal of an electronic insurance claim service is for it to be easy for all parties involved to make additions to or view the project files. When logging into the Claims Information Center, you will see any open projects. When you click on those files, you will find links to claim information, work comparisons, and relevant research.

Data Storage
SERVPRO has been compiling data for years on claims and projects. Their database is searchable by state, county, and city. You can find information on response times, claim types, causes of loss, and even job costs, making your work as an insurance agent easier.

Processing
As an agent, you are likely aware of the normal holdups of projects related to bureaucratic approval processes and estimation gatherings. However, with access to the Claims Information Center, you can eliminate a lot of redundancy and back-and-forth chatter. The system allows for expediency and action. While you may have wasted several hours before traveling back-and-forth to job sites and client shops, you can now organize all information in one convenient location.
The insurance claim process is hard enough without having the digital tools to help organize and expedite decisions. However, if you work with the right partners, then the claims process can be extremely beneficial for all parties involved. Instead of going through the data collection process alone, consider working with SERVPRO, an experienced disaster restoration company that understands both sides of the claims struggle.

How To Fix a Leaking Toilet

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Always fix a leaking toilet as soon as possible in your Belton, MO home

Take a Look at The Most Common Leaks

One of the most common plumbing problems is a leaking toilet. Some of the causes are easy to fix, while some can be quite serious. Let’s take a look at the most common leaks.

Cracked Toilet Tank
Check around the entire toilet tank for cracks. A small hairline crack may be fixable with some silicone sealant or plumber’s putty. To fix a hairline crack, follow these steps:

• Shut off the water supply.
  
• Completely drain the tank.
  
• Dry both the inside and outside of the tank using an absorbent towel.
  
• Apply the sealant or putty and allow it to dry.
  
• Turn the water supply back on and fill the tank.
  
  

If you still have a leaking toilet, or if you spotted a large crack, the tank will need to be replaced before it causes a huge bathroom leak. If flooding occurs, contact a water remediation specialist right away.

Broken Gasket
After shutting off the water supply and removing all of the water from the tank, disconnect the water-supply tube from the shutoff valve. Remove the nuts from the closet bolts. Carefully grab the toilet around the bowl and lift it up. Set it on a dry towel. Scrape off the old wax gasket with a putty knife. If the gasket is cracked or damaged, you will need to replace it. Just make sure it is centered properly when you install the new gasket.

Faulty Flapper
The flapper lifts up when the toilet is flushed. If the flapper isn’t sitting right, the toilet won’t flush smoothly.
Squeeze a couple of drops of food coloring into the tank. After a couple minutes, check the bowl. If any color has leaked into the bowl, your flapper isn’t sitting right. Turn off the water supply and remove all the water from the tank. If the rubber on the flapper is no longer soft, you will want to replace it.
Always fix a leaking toilet as soon as possible in your Belton, MO home before it can cause a serious problem.

Fires Could Happen in Your Home in an Instant

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

Leaving your oven on accidentally can do more damage than you think.

Leaving your oven on accidentally can do more damage than you think. Leaving the house with your oven on seems like something that most of us have done and will continue to do.

A family recently had the worst-case scenario happen to them when they left the oven and left the house for no more than 15 minutes and it erupted into flames.  Luckily, they came quickly and were able to stop it with a fire extinguisher. But if they had just simply left the house to go to the grocery store and were gone for  just 15 minutes more, their entire home could have been affected.

Just remember to double check before leaving your home.  Fire damage to your home could be detrimental but the restoration process begins when you call us, SERVPRO of Harrisonville/ Belton/ Raymore. Our representatives will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with all the appropriate equipment and resources.

How can SERVPRO help me

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect the restorable items and structure that were damaged by the fire.  We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

How To Fix a Toilet That Won’t Stop Flushing

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Toilet issues should be fixed as soon as possible to avoid a toilet overflow

Many commercial properties have a bathroom open to employees and customers. A malfunctioning toilet can be a significant source of distress for business owners who want to keep their establishment running smoothly. Many commercial toilets have either a manual or automatic flushometer that is prone to kinks, especially excessive flushing that can lead to a toilet overflow. Fortunately, it’s possible to stop a toilet from repeating this frustrating cycle with a little elbow work.

Essential Steps for Toilet Maintenance

A person needs basic tools before attempting a repair project. The following can be found in major hardware stores:

• Screwdriver
• Wrench
• Cleaning supplies
  

Most commercial toilets have a manual flushometer. Innovative business owners can simply take a screwdriver and put it in the appropriate slot to shut off the water. Then, they can unscrew the top lid of the flushometer and remove the flange cover. They may come in contact with a little residual water, but they should keep in mind that it’s a temporary discomfort compared to cleaning up a messy toilet overflow.
Next, they must remove the gasket and put it under running water to wash off the sediment. They can spray it with a cleaning solution and wipe it down with a rag. Lastly, they can reassemble everything and give the toilet a good flush.
An automatic flushometer requires different steps. Business owners can prevent a toilet flood by disassembling and cleaning the chrome button and solenoid. They can reference the manual that came with the toilet for details.

Advice for Toilet Maintenance
Of course, commercial property owners can experience additional problems with their toilets. Clogged pipes, unpleasant odors, or strange noises may require consulting with a commercial water specialist in Harrisonville, MO.
Toilet issues should be fixed as soon as possible to avoid a toilet overflow. A functioning toilet is key for a successful business, whether it’s a restaurant, hotel, or retail store.

Black Mold: Frequently Asked Questions

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Affected insulation in a Belton, MO home

Black mold may be extremely common, but are you familiar with facts regarding this noxious and destructive substance? The best way to prevent serious damage to your commercial building in Belton, MO is to understand the causes and effects of mold growth.

Black Mold FAQs

Prepare to be on the defensive against mold. It requires specific conditions to grow and strict standard for its cleanup. Business owners should familiarize themselves with the information explained below.

1. Where is mold found and what causes it to grow?
Because mold spores are microscopic, there is almost no climate where they are not found. Particles are carried on the air and deposited everywhere. They settle and cling to many surfaces, remaining dormant until moisture levels become elevated and growth begins.

2. What materials does mold grow on?
Mold thrives on any organic material it lands on. Concrete; carpet; wooden materials, such as floors, studs, etc.; glass; insulation, wall board, and dozens of other structural materials, as well as in HVAC systems and duct work. As long as moisture is present, mold growth is possible.

3. Does mold cause damage to structures?
Mold is a fungus, which causes decay and rots wood, and can wreak havoc with your commercial building in Belton, MO. When high humidity activates spores, they begin to colonize within 24 to 48 hours, making fast discovery and cleanup critical before it damages and weakens structural materials beyond repair.

4. What is mold cleanup and remediation?
Professional mold cleaning and restoration technicians strict cleanup standards, avoiding contamination to adjacent areas, and minimizing human contact. Specific cleaning and disinfecting procedures must be followed. If significant mold or water damage has occurred, structural materials may need to be removed and restoration performed. Leaking pipes must be repaired and water sources removed. A dehumidifier may be required to prevent recurrence.
Understanding this information can help business owners avoid some of the major damage caused by mold growth. Regular inspection and maintenance of the building is the best defense against this tiny enemy.

Steps of the Flood Restoration Process

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

Surface cleanup in Belton, MO

Flood Restoration Process

Storm season can stir up many problems for homeowners. When your home in Belton, MO, floods or is otherwise damaged by wind, rain, or hail, storm restoration experts can help tear out ruined material and put your house back together again. They follow these steps to ensure that your home is back to normal as quickly as possible.

1. Water Extraction
After surveying the extent of the damage, the first step is to remove all the excess water. Specialists use industrial pumps and techniques to extract water so your home can start to dry out.
2. Damage Removal
Before your home can be restored, technicians must tear out the materials that can't be salvaged. They remove saturated walls, ceilings, and floors. They also clear out any soggy items that need to be cleaned or discarded.
3. Moisture Control
Drying out the remaining structure keeps water damage from turning into secondary damage, such as mold growth. The mitigation team makes sure that surfaces are dry and takes steps to bring the humidity in your home down to an acceptable level.
4. Surface Cleanup
Water that floods your home during a storm is not clean water. Technicians disinfect your home to rid it of any bacteria that happens to be present.
5. Full Restoration
When you choose a company that handles both remediation and restoration, you know your home is in good hands. The same team that deals with the damage also handles the rebuilding process. They know exactly what is needed to restore your home fully to how it looked before the storm.
After a storm damages your home, calling dependable professionals to fix it is a smart move. They can walk you through what to expect from the restoration process so that you are aware of what's happening in your home. Efficient and expert work helps your home get back to normal.

Why You Should Choose a Mitigation Company To Do the Rebuild

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Harrisonville, MO

Why You Should Choose a Mitigation Company To Do the Rebuild

If your business in Harrisonville, MO, has sustained fire damage, you may not know who to turn to for help. Once the fire crew leaves, the cleanup and restoration process can begin. Depending on the type of damage your building sustained, a variety of experts may be needed to return it to its pre-fire condition. By using a one-stop-shop, you can quicken the restoration process and get back to business sooner. Mitigation companies generally offer all the services you need from assessment through to restoration.

1. Point of Contact

You will likely be provided with a single point of contact. This expert will help you through the entire process and will work with your insurance adjuster. If you have any emergencies or concerns, this is the person that will send the right team onsite to address the issue.

2. Plan of Action

Experts will inspect the damage by going through each room or area and looking for soot, fire, water, and smoke damage. They will put together an action plan based on your unique situation.

3. Protection from Further Damage

The fire mitigation team will usually place a board or tarp over any damaged roofs, windows, or exterior walls. This not only protects from rainfall but also from intruders.

4. Disaster Cleanup and Sanitization

Fire damage can lead to water damage. By working with a mitigation company, the right professional will be sent onsite at the right time, whether you need water extraction and drying or smoke and odor removal.

5. Restoration

During this final step, your business will begin to look like it did before the fire. Damaged items like carpet, paint, and drywall may be replaced.
You can streamline the entire fire damage process by working with a professional mitigation company. When you take advantage of these experts, you can rest assured that they know what needs to be done and have the professional to do it right.

Why Weather Watching Could Protect Your Company

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Watch the local news for weather events that could impact your business

Why Weather Watching Could Protect Your Company

As a business owner in Belton, MO, you know a lot of wildcards exist, and one of the biggest is the weather. A winter storm could bring high winds and dump loads of snow in your area. A lightning storm could strike your building with a powerful blast. When you run a company or are responsible for protecting its property, watching the weather takes on a focused urgency. Here are a few steps to take that keep you informed of weather warnings:

• Watch the local news for weather events that could impact your business
  
• Keep a mental record of seasonal weather patterns in your region
  
• Stay informed with state and federal weather alerts
  
• Understand if your building is located in a flood zone
  
  

It is important not to be blindsided by severe weather. Being aware helps you take steps ahead of time to mitigate the effects of a storm.

Storm Impacts

A winter storm can impact your business in many ways. It could cause the roads to be impassable, meaning customers will be unable to make it to your store or office for a day or more. It could affect the accessibility of your parking lot. With a little foresight, this can be avoided by hiring a company that has the resources to clear your lot even during bad weather. Heavy snow on your roof could cause storm damage by creating ice dams or even by collapsing a portion of the roof. Ice buildup could result in a pipe break. A storm remediation franchise in your area can arrive to secure your building and remove damaging water.

Storm Preparation

The more time you spend on preparation the less likely you are going to be surprised by a winter storm. Planning ahead pays off by knowing how to react and which companies to call in an emergency. This could result in reduced expenses and a faster recovery for your company.

An Overview of Black Mold

3/29/2020 (Permalink)

Black mold is nothing to take lightly

There are certain things you don't want to find in your home. Black mold is high on the list. Not only is it unnerving and stressful to have it in your house, but the cleanup costs can be expensive. The more you understand about this fungus, what it is and how it grows, you more likely you are to keep it away.

The Basics of Mold

Mold is a tiny fungus that is present everywhere in the air. It is usually unseen, but it can grow and spread under certain conditions. When mold finds its way into your home, it will thrive in damp, humid environments. Black mold has the following characteristics:

• Has a slimy texture
• Can appear as a dark-green color in addition to black
• Can grow on high-cellulose materials
  

Common Areas of Concern

Though mold can grow in many places, including outdoors on plants, certain spots are more prone to having this fungus. Areas of your Harrisonville, MO, home with poorer ventilation such as the basement, cellar or attic are places where mold loves to show up. Also, rooms in the house where water is prevalent are common for mold cleanup as well. These may include showers and laundry rooms.

Avoiding Mold

Mold remediation can be a lengthy process. Fortunately, you can find an experienced mold removal company with the skill and equipment to identify mold growth and clean it up. However, with some awareness and preparation, you can reduce your risks of finding it on your property. First, routinely inspect your plumbing system. Check for broken pipes and repair leaks promptly. If you have water damage after a flood or a broken appliance, clean it up immediately. You should also make sure you have proper ventilation throughout your home.
Black mold is nothing to take lightly. The appearance of this fungus is cause for concern, but you can do something about it and have peace of mind.

Exterior Maintenance of a Commercial Building Is Critical for Storm Preparedness

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

You must keep the building maintained to stay profitable

Owning a commercial property can be a smart investment in Belton, MO. Choosing an area where rents are expected to either stay stable or increase can bring a return on investment of around 9%, better than three times the average return on residential rentals. However, to make it pay off, you need to keep up with exterior maintenance to be ready for storms and other issues.

You Must Keep the Building Maintained to Stay Profitable

When a property isn’t maintained, it’s useful life will be reduced – and rents may be as well. Commercial buildings also normally require more maintenance than homes. There are a few reasons for this:

• Tenants and customers are harder on properties than owners.
  
• Commercial operations tend to cause more wear and tear.
  
• Businesses are more likely to cut corners on maintenance in the pursuit of profit.
  
  

Storm Preparedness Starts With the Cladding

Whether you have siding or cladding on your building, it’s the first line of defense against inclement weather. That’s why exterior maintenance is so important – a tiny leak in the wrong place can cause massive, hidden water damage. Holes in the exterior can be fixed easily if caught quickly.

Yearly Inspections Are Also Essential

A building inspection is not only important for long-term profit, it may be required by law. Having an expert inspect the property is your only way to know what’s really happening to it, especially if there isn’t a full-time building superintendent on-site.

If Possible, Visually Inspect the Property Yourself Every 3 Months

Walk through and around the building quarterly to make sure your tenants aren’t exacerbating an issue. Also, inspect after a significant storm. Pay close attention to vulnerable areas, such as the siding, around windows and visible portions of the roof. If you see rust, you need a follow-up inspection an expert.
If you see an issue in your walkthrough, call a professional storm cleanup company to examine the damage and determine the best course. Good exterior maintenance will help prevent excessive repairs, reduce damage from storms and identify tenant carelessness, but eventually, all buildings will need repairs.

How To Avoid Space Heater Fires

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Keep your space heater clear out of dust

A space heater can provide extra warmth. It can also save on heating bills by allowing you to set the thermostat in your home in Harrisonville, MO, on low while still heating the specific rooms you are using to a comfortable temperature. A burned space heater doesn't help you, though. To avoid space heater fires, you need to follow a few simple tips.

Give It Space

The heating elements on a space heater give off an impressive amount of heat, but they can turn into a fire hazard quickly if they are crowded. There are several guidelines to make sure you have enough space around your heater:

• Maintain radius of three feet from flammable objects
• Don't use near combustible substances, such as gasoline
• Keep children and pets away from heater
• Set it on a level surface so it doesn't topple over

Turn It Off

To avoid having a burned space heater when you leave the room, remember to turn it off. Space heaters should never be left unattended while they are on, especially if you leave the house altogether. In fact, it's a good idea to unplug the heater when you are not at home. Keep an eye out for a frayed or otherwise damaged cord.

Keep It Clean

Keep your space heater clean to minimize fire risk. Dust and other debris can turn a functioning space heater into an electric fireplace in a hurry. Replace filters regularly according to the manufacturer's recommendation so that dirt does not infiltrate the heating mechanism. Follow maintenance instructions so that it not only lasts a long time but also does not become a safety issue.

A burned space heater can turn convenience into a nightmare. By following these simple guidelines, you can increase your creature comforts while still keeping you and your family safe. To avoid having to call for fire cleanup with a restoration company, choose a space heater that is safe and use it safely.

Proactive Cleaning Services in Harrisonville, MO

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore is here to help.

Cleaning Services for your Commercial Space

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need 

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. 

Specialized Training 

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis. 

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include: 

• Kitchen/Food Areas 
• Bathrooms 
• Schools/Classrooms 
• Offices 
• Retail Spaces 
• Water Fountains 
• Shelving/Racks 
• Sales Counters 
• Carpets and Rugs 
• Stair Handrails 
• Elevator Cars 
• Playground Equipment 
• Fitness Equipment 

Specialized Products 

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities. 

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning 

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore is your trusted leader in cleanup and restoration.

Tips for Safely Using Candles in Your Home

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Candles can add a cozy and welcoming touch to any home

Candles can add a cozy and welcoming touch to any home. However, they are also one of the leading causes of home fires in the United States. If you choose to burn a candle in your Belton, MO, house, it’s crucial to take the proper precautions to prevent a candle fire from occurring. Here are some essential tips for safely using candles in your home.

Keep Candles Away From Flammable Items

To ensure that your candles don’t cause severe fire damage, be sure to keep them far away from highly flammable items. This can include any of the following:

• Mattresses & bedding
  
• Paper
  
• Aerosols
  
• Cooking oils
  
• Dryer lint
  
  

It’s also likely that there are many combustible liquids found throughout your home, such as rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizer, and nail polish remover. Always make sure that your candles are kept at a safe distance from these materials.

Never Leave a Flame Unattended

You might quickly leave your spot in the living room to check on the food in the kitchen, thinking that your candle is safe. However, this simple oversight may end up being the cause of a candle fire. When it comes to basic candle safety, never take your chances. Always keep an eye on the candle and make sure that no pets or children are able to reach it.

Follow the Instructions

Most candles come with a set of instructions from the manufacturer. These instructions are meant to be followed carefully to prevent damage from taking place. In most cases, a candle shouldn’t be burned for more than two hours straight. You should also never let your candle burn all the way down under any circumstances. This may cause fire damage that can lead you to call for a smoke cleanup.
Burning a candle responsibly helps to ensure that your home stays protected from harm. In the event that a candle fire takes place despite your best efforts, be sure to call emergency restoration services as soon as possible.

It's More Than a Plumbing Issue: Secondary Damage Is Trouble

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Secondary damage in a Harrisonville, MO home

It's More Than a Plumbing Issue: Secondary Damage Is Trouble

Black mold can grow quickly when moisture meets organic matter and spores. In fact, within only a few days, a small situation can turn into a large growth, working away at drywall and becoming airborne in the home. Therefore, for this reason, and others, when water damage happens, it should be cleaned up immediately. Homeowners in Harrisonville, MO, should work with a water restoration company to inspect and correct the initial trouble, avoiding further complications.

1. What Is Secondary Versus Primary Damage?

The primary issue may have been a busted pipe or toilet overflow. You may have even just called a plumber, thinking that once it was fixed, all was well. That fluid and humidity, however, continue to pervade a space, seeping into flooring, drywall and ceiling tiles. These issues are considered secondary damage. Left alone, these materials dry but could leave hazardous growths. Special care should be taken to protect the room and valuables.

2. Can You Avoid Trouble?

Have the space tested by experts, determining the level of exposure. In addition, get the water up as quickly as possible. Do not use a vacuum, and ensure that electrical devices are not in the space. Then, industrial dehumidifiers should run for several days, with the crew inspecting the section daily. Black mold thrives in this condition, so these units actively fight against development. Attempt to save furniture by moving it out or placing aluminum foils or blocks under the legs. Anything of worth can be taken elsewhere, as long as it isn't exposed to contamination.

3. How Does It Come Together?

With high humidity under control, work with the team to discuss restoration. They'll discard and replace materials touched by category 3 water minimizing additional microbial expansion. Then, specialists can tackle anything special such as documents or photographs, using high-tech equipment that sanitizes and repairs. In time, your house will get back to normal.
Don't assume your plumbing repair is over. Black mold and rot are not welcome in your abode. Fight this destruction by swiftly calling for help and tossing out anything waterlogged.

Qualifications To Look For in a Restoration Company

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Water extraction in a Belton, MO office

Qualities You Should Look for When Choosing a Go-To Restoration Company

As a Belton, MO, business owner, you have a lot of decisions to make. Daily tasks and choices require a great deal of your time, and you rarely have time to think about potential emergencies. If a disaster does strike, do you know who to call for help? Fortunately, if a tragedy happens, a trained restoration company can help get your business running smoothly again. There are several key qualities you should look for when choosing a go-to restoration company.

IICRC Certification

If your business has been affected by disaster, you want to make sure you get the best help possible. When it comes time to hire a restoration company, ensure that they are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC has developed the highest standards and quality concepts in the restoration industry. These standards include fire and water restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning and applied structural drying. By hiring a certified mitigation and restoration company, you can feel confident that your business's needs are being met.

Employee Certification

Ensuring that a company has a mitigation certificate is a great start, but it’s also wise to ask about the individual employees within the restoration company. If you’ve already determined that the company is certified, ask if the company requires employee certification. Individual employees should also be trained according to IICRC standards.

Continuing Education

Once an employee has been certified, it’s important that they participate in continuing education. Every industry develops new techniques, products and technologies, so it’s critical that employees and companies continually improve their knowledge of mitigation procedures. There are credit and non-credit courses available for staff, insurance agents, real estate professionals and more. Ask the restoration company if they require a certain amount of continuing education from their employees.
When a disaster strikes your Belton, MO, business, be prepared by having the information for a reliable restoration company that can help your business get back on its feet in no time.

Are You Covered for Commercial Water Damage?

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Harrisonville, MO

Are You Covered for Commercial Water Damage?

Property damage from water is a common reason for commercial insurance claims. Dozens of potential sources exist that can cause water damage to your business. This discussion of insurance coverage may help you decide the type and extent of coverage you need.

Internal Water Breaches

Will your Harrisonville, MO, business be covered by conventional insurance if you incur property damage from water? The answer is, it depends. For most internal water breaches that cause damage, your business insurance will be responsible for covering professional cleanup and restoration costs. Here are some examples of covered scenarios:

• broken pipes
  
• leaking refrigerator
  
• overflowing toilet
  
• leaking water heater
  
• accidental equipment failure
  
  

When water from these or similar sources damages your property, your commercial insurance will usually pay for the cleanup and water damage restoration. Often, they will cover the cost of replacing your damaged items. Your agent can help you file a claim and determine the level of your coverage. If your damage was caused by external water sources, it’s in a different category that may require special coverage.

Flooding and External Breaches

Will your business insurance cover water cleanup and restoration from a flood? Not usually. Most commercial flood damage is excluded from conventional insurance coverage. If water enters your building from the outside at ground level or below, you would need to have a special flood insurance policy in order to be covered. This includes water damage from overflowing rivers and water main or dam breaches.
Flood insurance is obtained from the federal government but can usually be brokered by your insurance agent. If you are in a low-lying area or a known flood plain, you are considered to be high risk and may be required to purchase flood insurance.
When water from any source damages your business, it can be costly and time-consuming to remedy. Conventional business insurance is the minimum level of protection and generally covers only damage from internal leaks, such as broken pipes. Property damage from external water sources would be covered only by a special flood policy. It’s prudent to evaluate your risk to make sure you have adequate protection.

The Basics of Mold Remediation

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Restoring severe mold damage in Harrisonville, MO

Here is an Overview of The Remediation Process

If your property has sustained any type of water damage, then stopping mold growth is a top concern. If you have found any signs of mold in your Harrisonville, MO, building, you may be wondering about the mold remediation process. Mold cleanup processes vary depending on the type of mold you have. If you are worried about black mold, then you should contact specialists as soon as possible. Here is an overview of the remediation process.

• Inspection
  
• Containment
  
• Disinfection
  
• Restoration
  
  

Inspection

At the first suspicion of mold, you should find trusted experts to perform an inspection. A proper inspection of the premises will help determine what equipment and personnel are necessary to handle the situation. Your inspection professionals use advanced technologies to detect existing mold as well as hidden water sources.

Containment and Disinfection

Properly containing mold helps prevent the fungus from spreading and causing additional damage. If you have black mold, it is of utmost importance to use personal protection gear while dealing with an infestation. Remediation specialists have the training and equipment to keep the building safe. They may use equipment such as negative air chambers and HEPA vacuums. Once the mold is contained, materials that have been affected will be treated with antifungal and antimicrobial agents. These treatments kill mold colonies and stop new colonies from growing.

Restoration

Depending on the extent of the water and mold damage, the materials in your building may be cleaned or replaced. Porous materials such as drywall and carpeting may need to be removed. Your team of mold and water damage specialists will advise which items can be sanitized and which require disposal. They also have ways to deodorize and thoroughly remove odors from your property. If the mold damage is extensive, parts of your building may require reconstruction.
When it comes to your property, don't let mold take charge. If you suspect black mold or any other type of mold issue, contact professionals as soon as possible to lessen the impact on your building and your wallet.

5 Things to Know About Fire Sprinklers

12/29/2019 (Permalink)

Most businesses in Belton, MO, have a fire sprinkler system of some kind

5 Things to Know About Fire Sprinklers

Most businesses in Belton, MO, have a fire sprinkler system of some kind. This suppression system can be an important tool for fire safety. As such, there are a few things you may want to know about your sprinkler system.

1. What Type It Is

There are several types of systems you can choose from so it’s important to know which system you would like installed in your business. These include wet, dry, Pre-action, deluge, and foam systems.

2. How It Works

The various fire suppression types can work in different ways so it’s important to understand your chosen system type. Most sprinkler heads activate only when they are exposed to heat, but some put out water, other chemical suppressants, and some foam.

3. How It’s Installed

In many cases a fire sprinkler system will be installed while the building is being built, although it is possible to install them in a renovation. A specially licensed contractor will need to conduct the installation to make sure it is done according to both local regulations and NFPA codes.

4. Where It’s Located

Most sprinkler systems require them to be placed on the ceiling or in a system that runs along it. They will also need to be unobstructed to ensure proper functionality.

5. Can It Trigger Accidentally

It’s unlikely that a sprinkle will trigger accidentally. However, if it does you can contact a local restoration service to conduct the fire sprinkler cleanup. These services can also help if there is a fire.
Knowing these things about your business's fire sprinkler system can help you know what to expect in an emergency. You should have an idea of where your sprinklers are located as well as what kind of suppression methods they utilize. Your system shouldn’t trigger accidentally but if it does, or in the case of a fire, a local restoration service can help.

Preparing the Exterior of Your Commercial Building for a Hurricane

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial building in Harrisonville, MO

Preparing the Exterior of Your Commercial Building for a Hurricane

When the meteorologist is calling for a hurricane to make landfall in or near Harrisonville, MO, you want to make sure that your commercial building is ready for anything. Working proactively throughout the year to keep your building maintained will minimize risk once the storm blows in. Performing exterior maintenance one more time just before the hurricane hits is one way to ensure that everything that can be done has been done. Make sure to complete these three steps when preparing the exterior of your building for a hurricane’s arrival.

1. Trim Tree Limbs
Any overhanging, loose or dead tree limbs should be cut back. A fallen branch can damage the roof, possibly even puncturing the membrane. Windows could be shattered by an out of control branch. Loose or falling tree limbs can also become projectiles in heavy winds damaging nearby properties or even injuring people.

2. Remove Potential Projectiles
One of the most important types of exterior maintenance is making sure that potential projectiles are put away or secured. This is not only important for your own property but could potentially affect other properties around your building. Signs, displays, trashcans, tables and chairs are no match when it comes to hurricane-force winds. You will also want to make sure that any parts of the building that are loose that could tear away in high winds are taken care of, such as loose siding, shingles, etc.

3. Clean Gutters, Downspouts and Drains
Make sure that gutters, downspouts and drains are clear of leaves and debris. Water flow and drainage are very important to avoid flooding during heavy rains.
Taking proactive steps in the form of exterior maintenance may not mean that there will be no hurricane damage. However, keeping your building maintained will always pay off in the long run. If your commercial building sustains storm damage be sure to get a building inspection and call on storm cleanup professionals to get it back up to code.

An Overview of Secondary Damage

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

Broken water line leaded to secondary damage to a Belton, MO home

An Overview of Secondary Damage

The thought of dealing with a flood in your Belton, MO, home is probably one of the last things you'd want to imagine. At the least, this incident would cause inconvenience. In the worst circumstances, a flood could cause devastation. Sometimes, the initial wave of water itself isn't the biggest concern. You also have to think about the damage that comes later. Issues such as black mold can develop, which is why it's crucial to clean up any water as soon as possible.

Initial Problems

The immediate effects of a flood can be severe. When water infiltrates your home, you risk losing electronics, furniture, clothing, documents and carpet to over-saturation of water. Your first responses to seeing water in your home should be:

• Unplug electronics.
  
• Remove materials and items from the flooded area.
  
• Call a professional water cleanup company.
  
  

The Next Wave of Damage
In the days and weeks after the flood, something known as secondary damage can occur. If the water remains in the home too long, or if the area isn't properly dried and sanitized, fungi can grow on the floors, walls and ceiling of your house. One of the most common types of fungus is black mold, which can grow rapidly in moist conditions. Rotting wood is another concern. When the building materials of your house become saturated with water, the wood can become weakened and threaten the structural integrity.

Preventing Secondary Damage
You may not be able to prevent a flood in every occasion, but you can stop the damage that happens afterward. It's important to get rid of the water and thoroughly dry all affected areas as soon as possible. Mold spores thrive in high humidity. A professional crew will use fans and dehumidifiers to make sure there is no moisture left in your house.
Just because you soak up the standing water after a flood doesn't mean you won't see black mold or other damage. With the help of a professional crew, you can avoid additional concerns.

3 Things To Know About Black Mold

11/29/2019 (Permalink)

Severe mold damage in a Harrisonville, MO home

3 Things To Know About Black Mold

If you’re facing a potential mold cleanup in your, Harrisonville, MO, home, you may have some concern about black mold. Fortunately, a local mold remediation service can answer your questions. Here are three things to understand about this type of mold and what makes it different from many other molds that can be found in the home.

1. What It Is

All molds are fungi. This means that they grow by secreting enzymes into the area around them and then absorbing the resulting nutrients. The fungi then generates spores which will spread until a full mold colony is formed. They generally prefer humid and dim conditions, and can grow anywhere there's damp organic material. Mold can range in color from pale grey or green to black, but not all dark colored molds are black molds

2. How It’s Different

There are a few differences between black mold and other kinds that may be found in the home. The first is that not all molds release mycotoxins which creates the toxicity that this type of mold is known for. This type of mold also required wet material to grow and must have access to such for 72 hours minimum, followed by continued moisture. It most often grows after major water damage or flooding which is part of why it’s important to repair water damage as soon as possible.

3. Who To Call

If you have any kind of mold in your home it’s best to contact a mold remediation service. These professionals can perform tests which may then tell you the exact type of mold that’s in your home. From there the service can make plans to begin the mold removal process. These professionals may also be able to help with water damage problems.
Just because a mold is black in color does not mean it’s black mold. It’s important to let your remediation professional determine what type of mold you do have, and to take the steps they recommend for remediation.

3 Alternatives to Burning Candles

11/24/2019 (Permalink)

Battery-operated and fashioned to look like traditional candles

Candles Without the Risk of Fires

Candles have gone from special occasion decor to everyday centerpieces in many American homes. Yet in homes where there are pets or small children, the risks of burning candles often outweigh the benefits. Not to worry - if you love the look or scent of these attractive decorations, but can’t risk a candle fire in your Belton, MO, home, there are many alternatives. Here are just a few.

Why Not Burn Candles?

Whether burned for holidays, religious observances or simply for ambiance, candles bring an undeniable allure to the home. Yet for all their beauty, candles don’t come without a few risks. Fire safety experts estimate that:

• About 23 home candle-related fires occur every day in America
  
• Roughly 3 percent of home fire deaths are related to candles
  
  

Perhaps most sobering is that nearly a quarter of home candle fires involve unsupervised children. That alone can make many homeowners wary of burning candles. But what are their other options?

Flameless Candles

Battery-operated and fashioned to look like traditional candles, flameless candles have become an extremely popular option in situations where open flames are not a good idea.

Wax Warmers

If the scent rather than the soft glowing light is what draws you to candles, wax warmers can be an easy alternative. These devices work by using an electronic heat source to gently warm scented wax.

String Lights

If the soft lighting of candles is what you’re after, string lights are a safe option. Also called fairy lights, these strands feature tiny light bulbs that give off just enough light. They’re powered by batteries or electricity, so you don’t have the risk of candles.
Unfortunately, candles aren’t always ideal in homes with pets, children or other high risk factors for candle fires. Try one of the above for the look of candles without the risk of fires, smoke cleanup and other headaches.

Preparing Your Business for Winter Storms

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

Winter storm in Harrisonville, MO

Inclement weather can hit at any time, but it is especially expected during winter. As a business owner in Harrisonville, MO, it's crucial to stay aware of weather conditions and have winter storm preparedness plans in place. Here are some tips for getting your building and your business plans winter-ready before severe weather hits.

Keep Tabs on the Weather

One key to protecting your business against severe weather is prevention. A combination of watching the weather closely and keeping up with regular inspections and maintenance of your space can save you a lot of trouble. Keep roofs, windows, doors, drains, and plumbing systems up to code. Check these areas closely before a period of severe weather and address any necessary repairs. If you anticipate a winter storm, take care to watch its path and prepare your building for potential storm damage.

Keep Employees Informed

If the weather forecasts show a likely blast, prepare your employees accordingly. If your business can run while they work from home, prepare them for this. If your business can't operate remotely, you may need to shut it down for the duration of the storm. If shutting down is also not an option, you can create a team of essential employees and offer to put them house them in a nearby hotel so they can get to work safely. Whatever you decide, communication with your employees is crucial.

Keep Emergency Contacts Handy

Even the most prepared business can succumb to nature's will. Keep yourself organized and have the contact information for local authorities, preferred insurance providers, and professional water damage restoration technicians at the ready. Store their numbers in your phone and write them down, as well. In the event of an emergency, such as a pipe break, accessing this information easily can feel like a lifeline.
Nobody is immune to the effects of a winter storm. With some diligence, you can minimize the damage, and with the right team of professionals, you can get your business back up and running fast.

Cleaning up Sewage Water

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

Sewer damage in a Belton, MO bathroom

While any type of water damage in your Belton, MO, home is unpleasant, a sewer backup brings its own unique woes. Along with being a dirty job, sewer cleanup means that contaminated water has infiltrated your home. Cleaning it goes beyond just mopping it up.

Types of Water

There are three types of water that can make their way into the home.

• Clean Water – Water directly from a water source such as supply line or faucet.
  
• Gray Water – This is water that has some relatively harmless contamination such as from washing machines, flooded toilet that has no waste or a dishwasher.
  
• Black Water – Microbes, sewage and harsh chemicals have tainted this type of water. If the problem is from flooding, it should be considered this type since it traveled through various environments to reach your home.
  
  

Cleanup Expectations

When it comes to sewer cleanup, safety precautions need to be taken. In many cases, contacting a professional to assist with the problem will ensure it is done properly. During the cleanup process, extra steps are needed to ensure the home is free of contaminants.

Personal protection gear should be worn to avoid contact with possible contaminants. This includes rubber gloves and boots, eye protection and a face mask.
Block off the flooded area to avoid it spreading to other areas of the house.
Sewage water should be eliminated as quickly as possible. The best ways include a pump or filtered wet vacuum.
Soil and debris affected should bagged and thrown away, as well as any saturated carpeting, rugs, insulation and other porous materials.
Personal belongings should be sorted and taken out of the home. While some items may be salvageable, some will likely have to be thrown away such as an food or items that can’t be washed.
Once everything is removed, let the area thoroughly dry. Along with opening windows, if possible, use fans.
Sanitize, sanitize, sanitize. Any area of the home that has been touched by black water needs to be cleaned with bacterial cleansers.

Sewer cleanup is not a fun job, but it is necessary to ensure your home gets back to normal.

How To Prevent and Recover From a Clothes Dryer Fire

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

A lint fire caused by your dryer can be prevented

Ways You Can Properly Maintain Your Dryer in Order to Prevent a Fire

While smoking materials are the greatest cause of residential fire deaths each year, it’s surprising to learn that, according to the United States Fire Administration, clothes dryer fires cause an estimated 2,900 fires annually in residential buildings. Many individuals fail to recognize the importance of maintaining their clothes dryer. Here are some ways you can properly maintain your dryer in order to prevent a fire.

Prevention

No one wants to experience the devastating effects of a fire. While most individuals are aware of how to prevent fires caused by smoking, cooking, and lighting candles, many people are ignorant of how to prevent a fire caused by a dryer. Here are some things you should do to prevent a dryer fire:

• Have your dryer installed by a professional. This ensures proper installation.
  
• Wipe the lint filter clean after each cycle.
  
• Check behind the dryer for lint accumulation and that the venting system isn’t bent or crushed.
  
• Make sure your outdoor vent is protected from weather elements.
  
• Ensure that the cover for your vent opens when the machine is operating.
  
• Snake the dryer exhaust periodically. This ensures clear ductwork and decreases your chance of a lint fire.
  
  

Recovery

If you or someone you know have experienced a fire caused by a clothes dryer, there is help available. Because fires can cause significant damage, they necessitate professional help. Work with fire restoration specialists to get your home smoke-free. There are several steps a professional will take to restore your home:

• Inspection
  
• Boarding up compromised windows and doors
  
• Removing smoke and soot from all surfaces
  
• Cleaning
  
• Restoring walls, paint and carpet
  
  

A lint fire caused by your dryer can be prevented. Take the necessary steps to properly clean and maintain your clothes dryer. If you’ve experienced a dryer fire, work with restoration specialists in Harrisonville, MO, to get your home clean again quickly and safely.

How To Keep Your Toilets Healthy in a Commercial Building

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

A clogged toilet in a Belton, MO building

How To Avoid a Clogged Toilet?

Some of the most important amenities of any commercial building in Belton, MO, are the toilets. Although they serve a vital function, they are often overlooked. What can you do to avoid a clogged toilet and keep them in good working order?

What Goes In

Toilet paper can be a source of clogging if too much is used. In a business or commercial building it's hard to keep on top of everyone's toilet paper use. One way to ease this pressure is to buy thin toilet paper. This solution can be a lot cheaper than thick, name-brand toilet paper, as well. You should also make sure to communicate that things other than toilet paper should not be flushed down the toilet- if it gets clogged, you could end up with a bathroom full of sewage.

What Comes Out

If water or sewage is coming back out of the toilet, you may have a problem. There are several issues that could be at play:

• Clogged toilet
• Leaking water line
• Cracked bowl
• Improperly sealed footing
  

These types of problems can get worse if left alone. They can also cause water damage. In addition to a plumber, you may consider calling in a water damage remediation specialist to return your bathroom to its original state.

What Sticks Around

Changing the behavior of bathroom visitors can go a long way to prevent toilet overflow. Providing multiple labeled waste receptacles, especially for things such as feminine products, can help to reduce the amount of material that is flushed down the pipes. You can also put up signage to point these out and to state what should not be going in the toilet.
A clogged toilet can leave visitors or employees of your building with a bad impression. Keeping your bathrooms clean and functional should be a top priority of your maintenance crew. A few preventative measures can make a big difference.

Saving Your Belongings From Mold

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

Furniture with mold

Saving Your Belongings From Mold

A flood in your home can be traumatic, especially as you and your family sort through what’s left and get on with your life. Mold cleaning is just one of the issues you may face in the aftermath of water damage in Harrisonville, MO. Here are a few things to consider when it comes to saving your belongings.

Toss It or Treat It?

When things get wet, they can get moldy. Most people’s first impulse is to throw everything away, but that is not always necessary. Mold remediation may work with some items, such as the following:

• Upholstered items – couches, chairs, ottomans
  
• Fabrics – draperies, clothing, bedding
  
• Surfaces – walls, woodwork, bookcases, tables, counters, cupboards
  
• Sentimental items – books, photographs, paintings, figurines
  
• Electronics – televisions, audio equipment, computers
  
  

What Will the Cleaning Process Involve?

Mold cleaning for hard surfaces usually involves spraying with a disinfectant, wiping the item and leaving it in the sun, if possible. Upholstered furniture is often cleaned with a foaming cleaner that is vacuumed off, depending upon the severity of the mold damage. Items that can be wet or dry cleaned include curtains, clothes, blankets, sheets and pillows.

Cleaning of electronics can be tricky, but the most important thing is to get them out of the damp environment as soon as possible, and to refrain from turning them on. The company you hire can advise you on whether or not the items can be cleaned or should be replaced.

Can It Be Saved?

The most difficult decision in these situations is what to do about keepsakes and items of sentimental value. Mold damage on books and paper items can be very serious, although there are companies that do photo restoration. Paintings can be cleaned if not damaged too badly, and statues and keepsakes with hard surfaces such as vases, dishes or trophies usually clean up well.

Seeing your life in a moldy pile can be heartbreaking. Fortunately, mold remediation specialists can help you make wise decisions about mold cleaning.

4 Must-Do Tasks When There’s a Sewage Backup in Your Bathtub

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

Sewer backup in a Belton, MO bathroom

Prevent Further Damage in Your Home From Sewage Backup

When a sewer backup occurs and there is sewage in your bathtub, it is important not only to clean it up as soon as possible but also prevent it from happening again. If the backup is minor and has happened recently, you can attempt to clean it yourself. However, major backups will generally require professional help and you should not attempt to unclog them. If you wish to tackle the backup yourself, here are four things that you should do immediately to prevent further damage in your Belton, MO, home.

1. Use Proper Safety Equipment

Before you even enter the bathroom, ensure that you have the appropriate safety gear, such as a face mask, eye protection and rubber gloves. It is important that your skin does not come in direct contact with the wastewater from the sewer backup.

2. Remove the Water

Do your best to remove the standing water from the tub to prevent it from leaking and flooding other parts of your house. If the water is deep, you may need a pump. If it isn’t very deep, a wet-dry vacuum is all you may need to clean up the bathtub backup.

3. Remove and Clean Any Saturated Items

Remove anything that has been touched by the wastewater immediately. Some items, such as carpets and saturated baseboards, will need to be replaced and may require water damage repair. Items such as clothing and anything that can be easily cleaned should be sanitized as soon as possible.

4. Open Windows and Allow Sun Inside

Once the water and waste is handled, open your windows and blinds to allow airflow and sun to dry things out. If there was any flooding, sunlight can help to stop the growth of bacteria and reduce humidity.

A sewer backup in your home can be disastrous. However, damage can be prevented as long as you follow these steps or you contact a professional if further help is needed.

Is Your Plumbing Covered By Insurance?

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

Leaking kitchen faucet in Harrisonville, MO

Plumbing is a hugely important part of your home in Harrisonville, MO. It can also cause a lot of damage if not properly taken care of. Before that happens, understand and adjust your flood insurance policy accordingly.

Leaky vs. Broken

There is a difference between the need to fix broken pipe and a leaky pipe. A leaky pipe or a crack in your foundation can cause gradual damage, or a slow accumulation of water. Usually insurance policies exclude this kind of damage, and it is written off as wear and tear. A broken pipe, however, can cause sudden flooding and is most likely covered under flood insurance or an all-perils policy. To be sure, you should carefully review the wording of your insurance policy and call a representative for further clarification. You can also add these coverages to your plan if you wish to be prepared for all possibilities.

Types of Damage

Sometimes the type of damage or water damage remediation services that are covered differ in each policy. This is dependent upon the wording. The following are common verbiages in insurance policies:

• Initial damage refers to the damage to the pipe or water system itself
  
• Resulting damage refers to water damage that is the result of a broken pipe or flood
  
• Subsequent damage refers to mold prevention and the replacement of carpet, drywall etc
  
  

Negligence

Insurance coverage can deny your claim if the leaky or broken pipe is a result of your negligence. This means that they will only cover accidents that weren't easily preventable. For example, not keeping your home heated during a freeze can cause pipes to burst. If you ignore a leak that becomes a broken pipe some time later, this can also be considered negligence. It is important to stay on top of routine maintenance and inspections to prevent such occurrences.
The world of insurance can be difficult to interpret. If you don't know exactly what to expect out of your policy, it can also become frustrating. Take the time to get to know your flood insurance policy and understand what you're covered for.

Understanding Flood Insurance, Requirements and Benefits for Your Business

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage due to rain in Belton, MO

What is Flood Coverage?

Most businesses require a commercial insurance policy to operate, but not all require flood insurance, which can lead to questions of whether such a plan is necessary. Questions regarding necessity depend on location and regulation, while some businesses can operate without concern for flooding, others face the threat of floods seasonally. Therefore, to understand whether a flood policy is right for your business, you must first understand what flood coverage is and what your risks are when it comes to rising water levels.

1. Understanding Flood Coverage

Flood coverage is for instances of large-body flooding. For example, overflowing rivers, heavy rains leading to storm surges, snowmelt, broken dams, or even blocked storm drains and systems. Typically, this type of coverage kicks in when the flooding affects two acres or at least two properties.

2. Determining Risks

While flood insurance is a decent policy to have, it is not necessary for every state, city or location. There are designated flood zones throughout the country where it is wise to have this type of coverage. However, even in some flood zones, the risk of flooding is minimal, meaning that insurance is suggested but not required.

3. Knowing About Requirements

However, there are some areas of the country where flood coverage is required just like commercial policies. The requirement is often put in place by the local government to help avoid losses and financial disparity.

4. Coverage and Restoration

While some commercial policies will cover the cost of a storm remediation specialist in the Belton, MO, area, most commercial coverage is limited to rain and wind damage. Therefore, if a flood occurs and you do not have adequate coverage, the business is left to fund the restoration alone.
Flood insurance is not a requirement everywhere. However, even in places where it is not a requirement, a business may benefit from the extra protection. Contact a local specialist and discuss how to best protect your business for unexpected weather disasters.

3 Ways Tarp Services Can Benefit Businesses After Fires

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Roof tarping after a fire in Harrisonville, MO

Tarp Services Can Be Beneficial To Businesses

Fires in Harrisonville, MO, can cause damage to all aspects of a business, including a building's roof. However, many business owners are unsure what the fire cleanup process looks like when it comes to their businesses' roofs. However, tarp services can be beneficial to businesses for a variety of reasons.

1. Protect Your Roof From the Elements

Before a roof repair can begin, it's often important to first protect your business's roof from outside elements. Wind and rain can often cause additional damage to your property's roof. Additionally, debris such as tree limbs that land on your already damaged roof may cause further destruction. Fortunately, placing a tarp on your roof can usually help to protect your roof from wind, rain and debris.

2. Mitigate Damage

If a roof that has sustained damage is left uncovered, it may cause damage to the interior and exterior of your building. Loose roof tiles can damage siding and other exterior elements of your building, and a damaged roof can also cause water to leak into your business. If your building's roof has caused extensive damage to your business, you may want to consider contacting emergency fire cleanup services. However, you can often avoid interior and exterior damage by placing a tarp over your property's roof.

3. Expedite the Restoration Process

A quick restoration process is often important to business owners. Unfortunately, the restoration of your building can often be slowed down if your roof causes additional damage to your building or if your roof sustains secondary damage after the initial fire. As a result, it may take your business an extended period of time to reopen. However, by preventing further damage and protecting both your roof and your building, a tarp on your building's roof can ultimately help to quicken the process of restoration.

Understanding why placing a tarp on your roof can be a helpful part of the fire cleanup process can be useful to business owners. Knowing that a tarp can protect your roof, mitigate damage, and quicken the process of restoration can help to put your mind at ease after your business has sustained fire damage.

How Containment Techniques Prevent Cross Contamination

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Equipment needed for containment include disposable protective clothing

When it comes to mold cleanup, one of the main concerns mold remediation experts may have is preventing cross contamination. Cross contamination may occur when spores spread into other areas that did not previously have a mold problem. This often occurs when people turn to DIY techniques that may blow spores around rather than truly clean up the mold growth.

Why Containment Is Important

The EPA recognizes two main reasons for the importance of containment. The first is to prevent mold spores from forming new colonies in other areas of a building, and the second is to minimize the exposure of people to mold. Equipment needed for containment include the following items:

• Exhaust fan linked to the outdoors
  
• Disposable protective clothing
  
• Respirators
  
• Goggles
  
• Gloves
  
  

What Types of Containment

There are two main types of containment: limited and full. The larger the area affected by mold, the greater the risk of mold contamination during mold cleanup. The size of the contamination coupled with how heavy the mold growth is, usually dictates whether or not full or partial containment will be required. Sometimes heavier mold growth may prove to be a higher risk than the size of the problem.

For limited containment, specialists may use polyethylene sheeting to close off the affected area. A slit in the sheeting provides access to the treatment area. Duct tape can be used to secure the sheeting to the floors and ceiling. If there are more than 100 square feet of affected area, then full containment may be required. For this, specialists may need to build a decontamination chamber or airlock.

Mold cleanup requires technical skills and know-how that makes it a bad choice for a DIY job in Belton, MO. It may also require special gear to further decrease the likelihood of cross contamination. By prioritizing the prevention of mold spores from spreading, building experts can save themselves time and money. Otherwise, time would have been spent cleaning various rooms throughout the building that become contaminated in close succession of each other.

Creating a Fire Escape Plan to Keep Your Kids Safe

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

A fire escape plan is key for your kid's safety in the event a home fire occurs

Put a Fire Escape Plan Into Place

The attention span of most children is almost nonexistent and proving to wrangle your offspring is a lesson in patience most parents can only aspire to. However, when it comes to your kid's safety keeping their focus directly on you is your primary concern. A child will more than likely be confused and afraid in a dangerous situation. In the horrible event of a house fire, the best proactive measure is to put a fire escape plan into place. The following list is meant to instill confidence that your children will reach safety in case of a house fire.

1. Recognize the Fire Alarm

The noise of a fire alarm is loud and scary but is essentially a life saver. Test the alarms by pressing the button to make sure they are in working order. Ensure the kids are familiar with the sound and know what to do when it goes off.

2. Pick a Meeting Place

Decide on a place to meet where everyone can congregate as they leave the house. The meeting place should be at a safe distance in front of the home. A tree or light pole can serve as a spot to gather.

3. Visit Each Room

Take the time to visit each room in the house. Have the kids pay particular attention to all the routes out of the home. Each room should have two exit points.

4. Practice

Your kid's safety is paramount. The National Fire Protection Association suggests that the family practice the fire drill during both the night and the day, at least twice a year.
A fire escape plan is key for your kid's safety in the event a home fire occurs. Put the procedure in place and practice it until your family feels comfortable with the strategy. A specialist in emergency restoration services in Harrisonville, MO, can help you and your family make a plan for such an emergency.

Cleaning Up Your Company After a Fire

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Cleanup after fire damage in Belton, MO

How to Manage the Remediation Process of Fire and Smoke Damage

A fire at your Belton, MO, commercial property can be an overwhelming process. It starts with panic and safety concerns and ends up leaving you wondering about the cost of cleanup. Although it’s difficult to plan for a fire, there are several steps you can take to manage the remediation process to effectively handle fire and smoke damage.

1. Contact the Insurance Company

The first step after any fire is to contact your insurance company. They will be able to answer detailed questions about exactly which items they will replace and get you immediate funding for cleanup. If there are questions about damage to employee property, your insurance agent will be able to give you direction on what to tell them.

2. Secure the Building

It’s often an overlooked step, but you need to make sure to secure the property. There could be looting or trespassers in unstable areas, and you are liable for injuries that occur. Make sure any windows, walls or roofs that were broken by firefighters are boarded up and warning signage is posted.

3. Cleanup Fire Damage

The next step is to call professional fire restoration specialists. Items not obviously damaged in the fire might have incurred smoke damage. Walls and carpets can have a gray or black tint from soot damage, and they could be harboring invisible contaminants as well. At a minimum, they will have a smell that needs professional smoke cleaning. A competent restoration company will leave your property looking “Like it never even happened."
No owners want to deal with a fire in their business. However, the cleanup process doesn’t have to be especially complicated. The first step is to contact your insurance company and then secure the premises to prevent further damage. A fire restoration company will walk you through the process to remove all smoke damage and get your facility back up and running quickly.

How to Flush Your Water Heater

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

Flushing a water heater in a Belton, MO home

How to Flush Your Water Heater

Keeping your water heater properly maintained is one way to prevent potential water damage to your Belton, MO home. Flushing the unit can prevent buildup that could cause problems and create the need for repairs or replacement. The following are a few simple steps that will help you get the job done in no time.

1. Turn Off the Heater

The first thing that you should do before a water heater flush is to turn off the unit. Depending on the power source, this step will vary. For electric heaters, turn the power off using your home’s circuit breaker. If you have a gas heated unit, turn off the gas supply and make sure the flame is extinguished.

2. Drain the Heater

Once you are sure the water heater is off, you will need to drain the water from the unit. To do this, you can use a simple garden hose connected to the heater’s drain valve. Allow the water to drain into a safe area in the yard, turning off the water supply after a couple minutes. You should use protective gloves during this step to avoid burns from the hot water.

3. Refill the Heater

After the unit has been completely drained, you can fill the heater back up. Turn the water supply on after you have closed the drain valve and the heater will begin to refill. Once the water from your faucets is running smoothly, you have successfully completed the process.

Maintaining your water heater is a good idea for multiple reasons. If there is a sediment buildup, it can keep your heater from functioning properly and reduce its efficiency. A broken heater could also cause water damage that would require you to hire an emergency restoration service. While flushing your heater is a relatively simple procedure, you can always hire a professional to do the work if you prefer.

3 Things You Should Know About Mold and Your Insurance Policy

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage caused by broken pipe in a Harrisonville, MO home

A Few Important Mold Questions and Their Answers

Mold is a common problem in many buildings. If you have noticed a fungus growth in your Harrisonville, MO home, you may be wondering what you should do about it. Will your insurance cover the costs of removal? The answer to this can vary depending on your circumstances. Here are a few important mold questions and their answers.

1. When Does Insurance Cover Mold?

In many cases, your insurance policy will not include mold, but there are some exceptions. In situations where it is clear that the growth of mold was caused by a covered peril, then the costs to remove the damage will likely be covered. This can include instances when mold is the result of leaks caused by ice buildup, damage from a broken pipe and accidents involving broken appliances. Some companies also offer added mold insurance policies for an additional price.

2. When Is Mold Not Covered?

Unfortunately, your standard homeowners insurance will more than likely exclude most mold coverage. Unless it was caused by a covered peril, you will be required to pay the costs of a mold remediation service on your own. Disasters such as floods are often not included in standard policies, so mold that is the result of a flood will not be covered. It can sometimes be difficult to receive coverage for mold if your home has a history of fungal growth.

3. How Can You Prevent Mold?

Because getting rid of a fungus growth can be costly, it is better to prevent one from occurring. You can do this by limiting the moisture in your home. Make sure to keep appliances and plumbing fixtures dry. You can lower the humidity by using exhaust fans and opening windows in kitchens and bathrooms. Always fix leaks as soon as possible and clean your home regularly.

While it is unlikely that your insurance will cover a fungus growth, this is not always the case. Be sure to read over your policy carefully so you know exactly what is included. Creating an unsuitable environment for mold in your home will help prevent the need for professional cleanup.

How to Determine the Number of Smoke Alarms You Need

5/15/2019 (Permalink)

A fire alarm should be present in every home

Ask the Following Questions to Determine How Many Smoke Alarms You Need

A fire alarm should be present in every home, but one usually isn’t enough. If you are wondering how many smoke alarms you need in your home, then there are a few other questions that need to be answered first. The number of alarms required for your Belton, MO home depends on multiple factors. Ask yourself the following questions to determine exactly what you need.

1. How Many Floors Is Your Home?

While you will likely need more, the minimum number of alarms you should have is one per floor. If you live in a single-story home, then you should have at least one fire alarm. If your home has two floors, you will need at least two. A good place for this alarm is in the kitchen as this is where many fires start.

2. How Many Bedrooms Are There?

This is where the additional alarms come in. Because fire damage can spread quickly, there should be an alarm in each bedroom to alert everyone in case a fire starts during the night. You should also have one outside of every sleeping area. Having detectors here will make it more likely that you are able to make it out of the house in time.

3. Do You Have a Basement or Attic?

When you are determining the needs of your home, don’t forget about the areas outside of the main floors. Your attic and basement are just as vulnerable as the rest of the house and should each have a fire alarm as well.

While you may be able to stop a small fire on your own if you are alerted quickly enough, sometimes this may not be the case. If it is too large or spreading quickly, you should get out of the house immediately. A fire remediation service can take care of any fire and smoke damage after the danger has passed.

Understanding Commercial Generators

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial generator in a Harrisonville, MO building

Importance of Understanding How Commercial Generators Work

As a business owner in Harrisonville, MO, it is important for you to understand how your commercial generators work, from learning how long they will last to knowing what to do if they break down. You will be thankful when and if a storm wipes out your building’s power and causes a potentially dangerous situation. Here are three things to know about your generator equipment.

1. Generators last through many uses. Typical models will work for about 3,000 hours, meaning that a typical standby option could last for more than 30 years. Contact the manufacturer of your unit for more specific information on its expected lifespan.

2. All generators are not the same. Some run on diesel, while others are fueled by natural gas. There are also prime, standby, portable and stationary models. Since there are all of these features and more that you must consider before making a purchase, make sure that you pick out the right generator for your business’ needs and budget.

3. Generator problems need to be considered. Even the best piece of equipment can malfunction. In the event of a broken unit, you must be prepared for flooding and other destruction that can take place, especially if bad weather is occurring. If something does happen to your business, a local commercial storm damage restoration company should be called as soon as the weather dies down so you can begin taking care of your damaged or wet property and belongings.

A responsible business owner should be aware of and understand all of the equipment that the company uses to keep things running smoothly. A generator should be no exception, even if it is just a portable model that is used sparingly. Stay in contact with your local repair shops, cleanup crews and other trusted professionals in Harrisonville, MO, that can help when storms or other disasters threaten your property.

4 Important Steps you should Take to Reduce Space Heater Fires

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Avoid Fire Damage from your Space Heater.

Space heaters can be very convenient, especially if you have one room in your home that never seems to get enough heat from your central HVAC system.  Whether you use a space heater regularly or you only pull it out on the coldest winter days, here are four important steps you should always take to prevent fire damage from a burned space heater.

4 Important Steps to prevent Fire Damage

1. Clean It Thorouyghly

Before you use your space heater for the first time, make sure you clean all visible surfaces thoroughly.  Dust and other small particles tend to build up on the heater's surface and could potentially cause the unit to overheat or catch fire if not removed regularly.

2. Leave Plenty of Empty Space Around your Heater.

Never put your heater up against a blanket, piece of furniture or any other item.  If you do, you're likely to have a burned space heater before long. Space heaters should always have at least three feet of empty space around them, free from furniture, carpets and other items.

3. Keep Heater Away from Kids

Don't operate a space heater in an area where kids frequently play.  To reduce the risk of fire if a child does accidentally knock over the heater, make sure you purchase one that has an emergency shut-off mechanism.  You should also keep pets away from heaters whenever possible.

4. Never Leave a Heater Unattended

Never leave a space heater unattended.  If you plan to leave the room for a few minutes or a few hours, turn space heater off beforehand.  You can easily turn it back on when you return.

Following the preventative steps will minimize your chances of fire damage while warming your home.  If you experience a burned space heater or fire damage even after taking these preventative steps, a fire damage restoration professional can help with your smoke cleanup and restoration needs. Just call SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore at (816) 884-2240

History of SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Owners RC and Ann Julian when they first started SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore. We have come a long way.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore opened it's doors on 4/1/2013, with owners RC and Ann Julian and one other employee.  Now at the end of 2019 we are staffed with 10 employees and growing.

This summer the Cass County area and beyond had two major storms one in July and the next one almost a month to the day. This put our young crew to the test of helping our customers deal with flooding and major losses with caring and professionalism and fast drying services and clean up. We are growing as a team and we are proud to serve you when you need us.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore,is ready to serve you 24/7/365 in the event of a disaster to make it "Like it never even happened."

Our IICRC certification

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Each year we have to certify to keep up our IICRC certifications.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore has been  IICRC, Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification approved. The IICRC sets the gold standards for the Cleaning and Remediation industry, of which SERVPRO is an industry leader. The following is from the IICRC official website (http://www.IICRC.org).

”IICRC Certified Firms have earned the right to display the cleantrust logo as a symbol of quality. In order to achieve IICRC-certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise.

"IICRC Certified Firms must:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

"The IICRC actively pursues relationships with fiber producers, carpet and fabric mills, furnishing manufacturers and retailers, and others affiliated with the industry. The use of IICRC-certified service professionals is specified in leading manufacturers’ maintenance brochures and warranties.”

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore is honored to count it among the select organizations to receive this certification. We will continue to offer the same standard of excellence that you have come to expect, but now we have the IICRC stamp of approval to back that up. 

How To Access and Use Flood Maps

4/23/2019 (Permalink)

Homeowners should know if a property is located in a flood zone.

Homeowners and prospective buyers should know if a property is located in a flood zone. The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides online access to flood maps. Find out more about the resources available for determining the risk of flooding at a residence in Harrisonville, MO.

View the Flood Rate Insurance Map

The National Flood Insurance Program maintains a Flood Rate Insurance Map. This map offers several viewing options and important information:

• Dynamic maps and firm images
  
• Date of last update
  
• Records of revisions, amendments and revalidations
  
  

A detailed key indicates how levels of risk and flood prevention features are displayed. This map provides a recent assessment of flood risks at any area or property in the country.

Use Other Flood Risk Products

FEMA also offers user-friendly flood risk tools. These non-regulatory resources include graphical risk maps and detailed risk reports. Homeowners can enter their location to access all of the available flood zone information.

Request an Amendment or Revision

Homeowners who increase the elevation of their residences to prevent flooding can request an amendment, revision or recertification. Depending on when these changes took place, an amendment or revision may already be on file. The owner of a modified property on a flood plain should take the following measures:

• Check to see if an amendment or revision is on file
  
• Request a Letter of Map Amendment
  
• Request a Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill
  
  

Amendments may not immediately be indicated on maps or reports. These modifications can still reduce flood risks and lower the cost of flood insurance coverage.

The Flood Rate Insurance Map indicates the risk of flooding in Harrisonville, MO. Owners of residences located in a flood zone should obtain flood insurance and notify the NFIP or a private insurer in the event of a flood. Storm damage restoration specialists can quickly assess and begin to mitigate damage.

Broken Supply Line to Fridge

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

Tent contained drying wood floor with MAT System.

A supply line to upstairs fridge broke and leak thru floor and sub-floor filtering to basement causing Water Damage. 

Restoration Process

1. Use Extraction Mat System

The floors upstairs were hard wood and to keep them from cupping and crowning the crew laid down a water extraction mat system, they are use to speed the drying process and to prevent further damage to the hardwood floors.  

2. Use Containment Tent

We also used a containment tent to attach to air movers and dehumidifiers to dry affected area quickly to preserve the hardwood floors to be finished at a later time.

3. Build Containment Area

The crew also had to build a containment area in basement to dry the floor from the bottom up and to prevent further damage from the water loss.This helped in drying floor and sub-floor.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/ Belton/ Raymore made it "Like it never even happened."

Need Smoke and Soot Cleanup

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage at a local residential home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor.  Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to insect and accurately asses the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Smoke and Soot Facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler ares and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around around plumbing systems, seeping through holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are tow types of smoke-wet and dry.  As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire.  Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred.  The cleaning procedures will them be based on the information identified during pretesting.

Additional information

Wet Smoke-Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke-Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue-Produced by evaporation of material rather that from the fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call us today at (816) 884-2240.  24-Hour Emergency Service

3 Steps To Sewer Damage Remediation and Cleanup for Your Commercial Building

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning up a sewer backup problem is a job for our SERVPRO family of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore

3 Steps To Sewer Damage Remediation

When an overflowing toilet or backed-up sewer causes damage to your Belton, MO, business, it can be disastrous for your property and your profit. Black water, raw sewage and standing water can ruin floors, building materials and trigger the growth of mold. However, there are a few steps you can take for sewer cleanup when this issue plagues your commercial building.

1. Evacuate the Area

Even one flooded toilet can cause trouble on your property, as it can introduce contaminated water to an area where high humidity and moisture may already make it vulnerable to damage. To lower the risk of dirty water, mold spores and contaminants being spread by foot traffic, evacuate the area as soon as possible and do not allow anyone to approach the flooded space. Seal the door if possible and keep customers away from the restroom until professional sewer cleanup services arrive.

2. Call in a Professional Water Damage Service

Cleaning up a sewer backup problem is a job for professionals who have the equipment and know-how to handle it. Call for a storm damage and restoration service as soon as possible and let them know what kind of sewer problem you are facing. The technicians who work for these types of companies are usually experienced with this cleanup and the operation of machinery, such as sump and trash pumps, that allow them to handle the issue without incident.

3. Discuss the Restoration Process With Cleanup Techs

Once the water cleanup technicians arrive on the scene and clear the worst of the flooding, discuss your restoration options and which actions might be necessary to repair your property, such as building material tear-out and replacement and odor removal, which can be especially important after a sewer flood. Understanding your options can help you project a more accurate time frame and budget for reopening your business.

Dealing with a sewer cleanup at your Belton, MO, business can be distressing. However, when you know which steps to take in the aftermath, cleanup and restoration may be simpler to handle.

Two Time Flooded Basement

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Harrisonville/ Belton/Raymore for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (816) 884-2240

Be Ready and Prepared for that Emergency

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

It's always a good time to plan on the future. Book your free Emergency Ready Planning lunch today!

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore utilizes the latest technology in order to expedite the mitigation process further increasing our value to our customers.  

The SERVPRO Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency Ready Profile. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your home or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.  Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your home of business.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a large fire or area flood, or just a minor water leak. Having an Emergency READY Plan may help minimize the time your business is inactive, and get you back in the building following a disaster

Give us a call today to complete your Emergency Ready Profile. Call today at (816) 884-2240.

Restoring your Commercial Property after Water Damage Event

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events to commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response.  Whether we're dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damage area.  in many instances, normal operations can continue in temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents    Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints.  We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we'll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after water damage event.  Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO"s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with knowledge to restore your property.

Certifications

• IICRC Certified Firm
• AMRT Allpied Microbial Remediation Techician
• ASD Applied Structural Drying Tecician
• CCT Carpet Cleaning Technician
• CDS Commercial Drying Specialist
• ECTP Employee Certification Training Program
• FRT Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• OSHA 10 Hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• RRRP Lead Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT Water Damage Restoration Technician

What to Do When You Have Water Damage

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Broken supply line to a fridge.

As a homeowner, at some point, you will likely experience flooding in your home.  Whether from an overflowing toilet or sink, a broken water heater, a heavy storm, or broken pipes, water damage is a fact of life.  It's best to call professionals to take care of repairs and water cleanup, but here are some things you can do while you are waiting for help to arrive.

Focus on Safety

Your first concern should be you and your family's safety.  Depending on the water source, the water itself can be a significant hazard, so if the water is not clean, leave the cleanup to the professional.  

Keep the following in mind:

• Only do activities that are safe to perform, and wait until the professional arrive if you are unsure.
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are common concerns, so be aware of electronic appliances and watch your footing.
• Remember that waterlogged furniture and other materials can be heavy, so be careful when trying to move anything out of the water.

What to Do While You Wait for Help

Depending on the amount of water damage and your safety assessment , there are some activities you can do to help with water cleanup before the professionals arrive or after the begin cleanup efforts.  If the amount of standing water is minimal you may be able to remove excess water by blotting or mopping.

Additional activities include:

• Removing upholstery and cushions and propping up to dry
• Turning in the air conditioner, if available, during warm weather.
• Remove area rugs
• Gathering loose items from the floor
• Wiping water from the surface of wood furniture

The important thing, though, is to leave most of the cleanup to the experts. Water damage can cause serious hazards like mold and bacteria growth if not addressed quickly and thoroughly, and professional crew will have the equipment needed to get the job done right.  

Call SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore at (816) 884-2240 we are ready to help you 24/7/365.

Two Storms in Two Months

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

Kansas City area had two storms in two months. Houses and businesses flooded that hadn't flooded in 20 plus years.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (816)-884-2240.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Commercial Building Cleaning

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Working to restore you and your business to its full potential.

Commercial Building Restoration and Cleaning.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore is ready to respond immediately and work quickly to clean and restore your business.  We understand that you property's appearance is important and that every hour spent restoring is an hour of lost productivity.  

When you need a restoration or cleaning professional, SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore has the training and expertise to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Overview of Commercial Services:

*Small office Buildings

*Large Office Buildings

*Apartment Buildings

*Restaurants

* Hotel/Motels

*Small Retail Stores

*Large Retail/Big -Box Stores

*Manufacturing & Industrial

*Government/Military

Every commercial property experiences wear and tear, including dirt and grime that accumulates from ordinary use.  You can count on SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore to make your work space look its very best. Professional cleaning helps to protect your carpet and upholstery and increase its lifespan. We also are there for you if you have a commercial water loss, fire or need mold remediation.

Have questions? Call Today- (816) 884-2240

When Storms or Floods hit Cass County

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams  that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (816) 884-2240

Flooded motel due to broken sprinkler in Clinton, Mo

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore. Our fleet was on the job within an hour!

Broken sprinkler head flooded several rooms in the middle of the night.

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore arrived on site within an hour to begin drying process and get things cleaned up.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore is available 24/7 for all your mitigation needs.  Just call us at (816)-884-2240.

Smoke and Soot Clean-up

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Dry and wet smoke on this portable heater.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting.

Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (816) 884-2440

Frozen Pipes and Roof Repair

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Roof leaks can damage your home.

Storm damage hits residential and commercial buildingsroofs the hardest. A roof leak makes you experience water damage inside the house following damage from a wind storm or hail.  

A home remediation company like SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Ramore will not only secure the damaged area we will provide storm restoration services and provide water damage clean up services.

Storm remediation structures are necessary to avoid future flooding that only a flood pump can remove.

Another potential loss is from ice dam effects, snow, and freezing temperatures causing  frozen pipes amount to approximately $1.2 billion annually.

A few things you can do to prevent this from happening to you is:

*Make sure all outside hoses are removed from water faucets.

*Put outside insulation covers on faucets.

*On really cold nights leave a trickle of water running in sinks.

If you experience any water damage please give us a call at (816)-884-2240.

WHAT ARE THE CHANCES OF A STORM DAMAGING MY HOME?

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Worldwide there are an estimated 16 million thunderstorms each year.

Worldwide, there are an estimates 16 million thunderstorms each year, and at any given moment, there are roughly 2,000 thunderstorm in progress.  There are about 100,00 thunderstorms each year in the U.S. alone. About 10% of these reach severe levels.

Thunderstorms are most likely to happen in the spring and summer months and during the afternoon and evening hours, but they can occur year-round at all hours.

Storming can and will happen at anytime, and with 16 million happening every year there's a definite need for cleanup and restoration.  So the chances of having a storm damage your home are quite unpredictable. But having the right service to restore the damage is a definite.

About SERVPRO

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition. As a leader in storm and water damage restoration we can be "faster to any size disaster."

Your Water Heater Flooded your Home, Now What Do You Do

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

If Water Damage caused by Flooding of the Water Heater is not treated correctly Mold can start growing.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/ Belton/ Raymore uses the right equipment to identify affected materials. SERVPRO will check for the source of moisture in your home or business.

Gypsum, aka "drywall," is a very popular material for use in the construction of homes and offices. The material is noted for its strong fire-resistant qualities. However, drywall is also known to be incredibly susceptible to being damaged by moisture compared to many other building material.

This is, in part, because drywall is extremely porous, readily absorbing moisture and retaining it.

If the moisture content (%MC) of drywall exceeds even 1%, then the drywall can be considered "moisture-compromised" and in need of either drying or removal depending on weather or not mold has begun to grow.

Even greenboard, the "water-resistant" drywall, will be damaged by moisture if it gets past the green, water-resistant paper covering that gives greenboard its name.  The majority of greenboard's water resistance comes from the paper covering, not the drywall itself.

Because of how suseptible drywall is becoming damaged by even minute amounts of moisture, it's important to be able to accurately asses the amount of water present in drywall.

When looking for a moisture meter to use for testing drywall, some considerations include:

• Whether or not the meter has gypsum scale.
• The range at which the meter detects moisture-the meter should be able to accurately detect very small amounts of moisture.
• Length of the pins.
• Additional scales for other materials-most professionals have to work with more than just drywall , so having a moisture meter with the ability to test other materials using different reading scales is a must.

In many cases, if there is significant moisture in a gypsum board, then there will be obvious external signs.  For example, a simple visual inspection can be made to spot discolored or visibly crumbling drywall, or a musty odor can indicate a problem with mold growth.

Call us for any size disaster at (816) 884-2240.

What Should Adjusters and Clients Look For In a Restoration Service?

3/23/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore is here to serve you 24/7/365

When it comes to damage restoration, an insurance adjuster and client share many interests. Both want to have mitigation and restoration work done well at a reasonable cost. Insurance representatives and property owners should look for the following features when comparing restoration services in Belton, MO.

Accurate Estimates

An estimate gives clients and insurers a clearer sense of the total amount of an insurance claim. This calculation should account for several aspects of a job:

• The type and extent of damage
  
• Necessary equipment and labor
  
• Mitigation and restoration costs
  
  

A company that provides both mitigation and restoration services may provide a more accurate initial estimate. An insurance adjuster is likely to prefer a single estimate that accounts for the entire process rather than two estimates from different companies that may or may not work together.

Ease of Access

Insurance agents and adjusters can access claim information and estimates online at any time through the SERVPRO Claims Information Center. This service provides a variety of information:

• Claim information
  
• Estimates
  
• Comparison data
  
  

Insurance representatives can sign on to review updated information about a job. This electronic claims service also enables insurers to compare national, regional, state, county or local data on claims, losses and jobs.

Industry-Leading Methods

Insurance representatives and clients can both appreciate a service that uses cutting-edge methods. Certification from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration indicates that a company adheres to established industry-wide best practices. This credential often means that a service can complete a job in less time and often with a lower claim.

An insurance adjuster is more likely to settle a claim based on an accurate estimate from a company capable of completing the job. The availability of claim information can make this process faster and more straightforward. An insurer or client can access all of these features through a SERVPRO location in Belton, MO.

Finding the Source of a Toilet Leak

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

A toilet seal wax failure in Harrisonville, MO.

Discovering a Toilet Leak

A toilet is a simple machine that homeowners in Harrisonville, MO, often take for granted. When you have a leaking toilet, however, you may become acutely aware of how disruptive this dysfunction may be to your daily life. Fortunately, it's pretty easy to discover where the leak originates and thus the next steps to fixing it.

Possible Causes

A bathroom leak is not something you want to ignore. It only takes a small amount of water to cause damage such as rot or mold under your floor tiles. If water appears at the base of your toilet after a flush, know that it can be caused by several problems:

• Wax seal failure
• Improper installation of seal
• Faulty supply line
• Cracked tank
• Condensation on bowl
  
  

To determine which of these issues is causing the leak, dry off the area with a towel. Flush the leaking toilet again, and pay attention to where the water comes from. If it leaks out the bottom, you know the problem is with the way the toilet is fastened or sealed. If it leaks from the hose running from the wall or from the tank, you know the problem stems from that particular area.

Possible Solutions

When water is leaking from somewhere other than the base of the toilet, call a plumber to repair the source of the leak and water restoration specialists to assess and repair the damage it may have caused. You may be able to stop water from leaking at the base by simple tightening the bolts that secure it to the floor. If that doesn't fix it, you may need to remove the toilet and replace the wax seal to stop the leak.

A leaking toilet can throw off your day. Once you locate the problem, however, the solution may be fairly simple.

If you have any questions about water damage or leaking, SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore is here to help. Call (816) 884-2240 or contact us HERE.

Recovering From a Mold Infestation: The Cleanout

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Mold infestation in a Belton, MO home

Mold Cleaning

Mold cleaning is an intensive job that requires patience and caution. However, beyond caution, the cleanout process can be devastating for homeowners because many sentimental items may be lost to the infestation. While it is true that some things are not salvageable for health reason, not all is lost. The extent of loss is mainly dependent on the material type and the scope of the damage.

1. Removing and Discarding Porous Items

Most likely, porous items will succumb to mold damage. While it is true that specialized cleaners exist, many fabrics are never completely clean, and many other items cannot sustain the rigorous cleaning required to salvage the items, making it more cost effective to discard the materials.

2. Salvaging Non-Porous and Sentimental Items

Mold cleaning is possible with non-porous items, though it requires special chemicals – some of which may depend on the mold species. In addition to cleaning non-porous items, sentimental items may be saved by contracting services and cleaners who are experts in mold remediation. That being said, experts in item repair and salvage may be costly.

3. Sterilizing Your Home

Once all the materials and items in the affected area have been sorted through, you will need to sterilize your home with powerful cleaners. While it is possible to clean your house on your own, depending on the mold species, it may be better to hire a professional service.

4. Rebuilding After the Cleanout

A mold remediation specialist in the Belton, MO, area will likely need to remove drywall and insulation to ensure that your home is free of mold, which means that you may require restoration work to make your home livable again. Thankfully, many remediation experts are part of larger restoration companies.

Mold cleaning is highly involved, and you will likely have to discard items that are sentimental. The cleanup process may have your home looking worse before it gets better. However, while it can be devastating, once restored, you will have peace of mind.

Insurance Companies Do Business With Vendors They Know and Trust

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

If your home in Harrisonville, MO has been damaged, make the call!

Insurance Companies Do Business With Vendors They Know and Trust

Homeowners seldom find themselves dealing with home damage and insurance claims. They have no idea what to do. When things seem their darkest, the insurance agent comes to the rescue. While the insured is still trying to understand what is happening, the agent is hard at work:

• Helping to file the claim
• Evaluating the damage
• Preparing the estimate
• Reviewing the estimate with the insured

Preferred Vendors Make Life Easier for the Insurer
Unlike the insured, preferred vendors know exactly what is happening. At some time in the past, they executed an agreement with the insurance company. This agreement states what the insurance company expects of the vendor. It also says what the vendor should expect in return. It signifies the vendor’s acceptance into the preferred vendor program.
The insurance agent always recommends preferred vendors. Preferred status gives them a distinct advantage over other vendors. This advantage motivates the vendor to live up to the agreement. It also makes sure that they keep their clients happy. This status is difficult to attain and easy to lose.

Preferred Vendors Make Life Easier for the Insured
A list of preferred vendors from the agent makes contractor selection simple. Along with the list comes an explanation of why these vendors are better than others. The incentives for using them are considerable. The hidden benefit of choosing one relates to customer satisfaction. The vendor desperately wishes to retain the preferred status. That’s not possible with a record of unhappy customers.

Your damaged home may be in Harrisonville, MO. It may be far away. Your choice of an insurance agent or company doesn't matter. Regardless of your situation, you will see SERVPRO on the preferred vendors list. SERVPRO understands the value of being an approved vendor. Their work ethic, standards and satisfied customers make them the vendor of choice. Bring them into any damage remediation project, and it will be “Like it never even happened.”

Taxes and Storm Damage: What Is Not Deductible Under Casualty Loss

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Call your insurer in the Belton, MO area to find out more information and specifics

Taxes and Storm Damage

Tis the season, and most businesses are adding up deductions and getting ready to file. Unfortunately, while casualty losses may cover some elements of storm damage, not everything is tax deductible. In fact, there are at least four elements of damage that are typically not deductible.

1. Insured Items

Most businesses are required to have some type of commercial property insurance, and while basic policies will not cover extreme natural disasters, they likely cover wind and rainstorms. Any items or damage that are covered under your insurance policy cannot be claimed as a deduction because such issues are considered reimbursable.

2. Wear and Tear

Additionally, while you can deduct storm damage that is not reimbursable, you cannot claim items that have been damaged due to normal wear and tear. Therefore, if you have an HVAC unit that is past its prime and hasn’t been cared for properly, you cannot claim that it was damaged in a storm to receive a deduction.

3. Future Profits

While natural disasters, like hurricanes, can create significant business interruptions, you likely can’t claim profit losses. The reason is that these losses are considered future profits, and while some insurance policies will account for historical earnings, the IRS will not allow for these projections to be claimed as actual losses.

4. Project Restoration

Also, most insurance policies will cover some aspect of restoration after a storm, especially if you have additional riders, which means that restoration costs are reimbursable and not deductible. You can call your insurer, local IRS branch or a disaster restoration specialist in the Belton, MO, area to find out more information and specifics.

Storm Damage can wreak havoc on a business both physically and fiscally. Unfortunately, not all of this damage is deductible. However, through insurance policies, most losses are reimbursable, meaning that your financial difficulties are lessened in the long term if you have adequate coverage.

How Often Do the Batteries in Your Fire Alarm Need To Be Changed?

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t wait until you start to hear chirping from your smoke alarm to change your batteries!

While you might take your smoke alarm for granted, it can be the difference between life and death if a fire does occur in your home. In fact, 60 percent of fire deaths occur in buildings without working smoke alarms. The truth of the matter is that a fire in your home in Harrisonville, MO, is possible and needs to be taken as a serious risk. Be proactive in ensuring your family’s safety by making sure you change your fire alarm’s batteries on time!

Types of Fire Alarms

The type of smoke detector in your home will determine how and when batteries need to be replaced. There are three main types of alarms to be aware of:

• Alkaline battery alarm
  
• Lithium battery alarm
  
• Wired smoke alarm
  
  

Alkaline Battery Alarms

Many fire alarms are powered by 9-volt alkaline batteries, or even AA batteries. Rather than waiting for the battery to run out, replace alkaline batteries yearly. You will need to replace the entire detector every 10 years. This will ensure your alarm will be loud enough to warn you if a fire does occur in your home.

Lithium Battery Alarms

Lithium batteries last longer than alkaline batteries; however, you cannot simply replace the battery when the time comes. Rather, you will need to replace the entire detector after ten years. Make sure to keep up on this battery type since they give a shorter warning time before dying than other alarm types.

Wired Smoke Alarms

Many people opt for wired smoke alarms since they are reliable and reduce fire damage caused by accidental shocks. You definitely don’t want to have to call in a fire restoration specialist because a fire started while changing out an old smoke detector! For these types of alarms, replace the backup battery yearly and the entire alarm every 10 years.

Don’t wait until you start to hear chirping from your smoke alarm to change your batteries! Keep your home and family safe by following the recommendations in this guide.

How Do Hygienists Check for Mold?

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage due to broken water line in a Belton, MO home

Hiring an environmental hygienist to perform a mold test is the most accurate method for determining whether mold is growing in a residence. Learn about the sampling techniques professionals use and how test results can increase the effectiveness of mold cleaning.

Obtaining Samples

An environmental hygienist will take samples to send to a lab for analysis. Depending on the situation, a hygienist may obtain different types of samples:

• Air
• Bulk (contents or materials)
• Spores
  
  

Any of these methods can yield conclusive results about the type of mold present in a house. Air testing may include analysis of microbial volatile organic compounds and spores. Bulk testing may focus primarily on the presence of spores. All of these methods allow for targeted mold remediation measures.

Analyzing Samples

There are several methods of lab analysis that a hygienist or mold specialist may recommend. The amount of detail and speed of these methods vary:

• Microscopy
• Culturing
• A combination of these methods
  
  

Microscopy involves visual analysis and can provide results in as little as two days. Culturing is a slower process that involves growing mold spores in a petri dish. This process can provide more detailed results, such as the subspecies of mold, but is slower and more expensive.

Reporting Findings

A hygienist can provide test results and recommendations for mold cleaning. A homeowner may want to work with a full-service restoration company to ensure that mold remediation proceeds as efficiently as possible. Depending on the species of mold and the extent of an infestation, different cleaning or quarantining methods may be recommended.

These are the three major stages of checking for mold. An environmental hygienist can recommend the best mold cleaning methods for a particular species of fungi or type of infestation. If a homeowner is concerned about mold damage at a residence in Belton, MO, he or she should hire a certified hygienist.

What To Do When You Discover Water Damage

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Leaky supply line on the second floor bathroom caused the floor to be wet

3 Steps to Take When you Discover Water damage

Broken pipes, leaking pipes, a burst supply line, a poorly connected supply line, an aging appliance…there are countless factors in your home that may result in water damage, many of which you may not discover until after water has begun to pool in your home. Unfortunately, once you discover sitting water in your home, chances are that the issue has existed long enough to have caused extensive damage. While you cannot undo the damage that has already been done, you can act immediately to prevent further harm. Three steps you can take right away include the following:

• Shut off the water source.
  
• Look for safety areas and turn off circuit breakers if possible.
  
• Attempt to save contents.
  
  

If the damage is extensive enough, you may want to contact a Harrisonville, MO, water cleanup team.

Turn Off the Source

It will not help you to clean up the water damage if you do not find the source and put a stop to the leak or influx of water. The source may be a leaking pipe, a poorly connected supply line or even an open window. Once you locate the source, shut off the valve or close it off somehow.

Turn Off Breakers

If you can do so safely, turn off power in all affected areas. An electrical current that comes into contact with water can create an even greater hazard and may put you and your home in danger. However, if turning off power means wading through a pool of water, leave it be and contact a professional.

Save Your Contents

If you can do so, remove items from the affected area and try to dry them out. Even if an item is not in direct contact with water, it is at risk of becoming moldy or rotted because of the excess moisture in the air. If electronics or electrical appliances sustained water damage, toss them out. Even if they look okay, using water damaged appliances is extremely dangerous and can cause a house fire.

Dealing with water damage is no fun, but it must be done. For help with more extensive problems, contact your Harrisonville, MO, water cleanup team.

Fire Damage Preparation Tips

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Harrisonville, MO

As hard as it can be to think about, a fire could occur at your place of business. While a fire and its related damage are very real risks that you need to consider, there are things you can do to prepare for a possible future fire - and sleep a little easier at night.

Here Are Five Steps You Can Take To Help You With Fire Preparation

1. Understand your insurance plan. Make sure that you understand your commercial insurance coverage, claim requirements and any special conditions that apply to fire damage. If you don’t like one of the provisions of your policy, talk to your agent about adding or removing coverage.
   
   
2. Estimate replacement and repair costs. This is an important step to take to understand how much focus needs to be put on fire preparedness within your company. Making estimates will also help you identify your most vulnerable equipment.
   
   
3. Protect your workers. Make sure that your entire team is trained on fire preparation. Create an emergency escape plan that everyone can learn and remember so that they can exit the building as quickly and safely as possible during a fire.
   
   
4. Safeguard your business. Your business needs an emergency plan of sorts, too. Create a plan of recovery so you know what to do to reopen after a fire. This should include planning on the Harrisonville, MO, commercial fire damage service you will use if damage occurs.
   
   
5. Back up important files. Business records, repair service provider lists, financial spreadsheets and inventories are some examples of documents that should be preserved to the best of your ability as part of your disaster preparation plan. You can store these at an offsite location, but you should also consider utilizing electronic cloud services to keep online copies of your most important files.

Fire preparation is important not only for your company and finances, but also for the well-being of you and your entire staff. Put these steps into action for a better defense against building fires.

Categories and Classes of Water Damage

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

Sewer backup can happen to anyone.

Despite what many people think, not all home water damage is created equal.  There are actually a number of different classes and categories of water damage.  According to the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification), there are three categories of water/liquid and four classes of damage.

Category 1- This is basically any liquid from a clean and/or sanitary source like a faucet, a toilet, or fountain.

Category 2- This refers to liquid/water that used to be called grey water, which can potentially cause illness if ingested.  This includes things like dishwasher or washing machine overflow, toilet overflow or sink drains.

Category 3- This category used to be called black water; it is extremely unsanitary.  This includes sewer backup, flooding from rivers, and stagnant liquid that has fostered bacterial growth.

Now the classes;

Class 1- This is very easy to deal with and only affects a part of a single room, with little to no wet carpet, with water only on surfaces like wood or concrete.

Class 2- This class affects an entire room, and wetness has sent up the walls about 12" or more, with moisture still in the structure.

Class 3- This class basically means that ceiling, walls, carpet and insulation are all saturated with liquid or water.  This is often due to water coming from overhead

Class 4- This class means that there has been enough water or time to saturate materials with very low levels of permeation, like hardwood or stone.

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation.  These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the filed; manufactures, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated.  The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

Out staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm.  We believe in continuous training; from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with knowledge to restore your property.

Call SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore at (846) 884-2240 for all your restoration needs!

Understanding Mold

2/27/2018 (Permalink)

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours.  Consider the following mold facts:

*Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.

*Mold spores are microscopic, floating along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.

*Mold spores thrive on moisture.  Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water.  These colonies may produce allergens and irritants and have the potential to cause other health effects.

*Before mold remediation can begin, any source of water or moisture must be addressed.  Otherwise, the mold may return.

*Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead to possible mold problem areas.

*Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth.  Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If you suspect you have any of these issues contace SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore at (816) 884-2240 we are here for you 24/7/365.

"Mold Removal" vs. Remediation

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

What's the Difference?

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible.  Some restoration business advertise "mold removal" and even guarantee to remove all mold.  This is a fallacy.

A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth.  SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business.  Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same.

Step 1:Emergency contact (816) 884-2240

Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

Step 3: Mold Containment

Step 4: Air Filtration

Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings

Step 7: Restoration

Signs of Mold? Call Today (816) 844-2240

What Is Mold? An Overview

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

Black mold has long been regarded as the bane of property owners, and with good reason. Mold cleanup is a chore that no one wants to deal with, but of course it must be handled properly for the health of those who occupy the property. A moisture problem in the space doesn’t have to equal a mold problem though, if you understand how mold works. 

Time and Space

Mold growth is fast in the right conditions. It only takes 48-72 hours for mold to become a serious problem in a damp and warm space. Standing water isn’t a requirement; mold can flourish in any indoor space with higher-than-usual humidity. For best prevention, keep your indoor humidity below 45 percent. 

Signs of Mold Growth

Unseen dangers are often the worst kind. Even if you don’t see evidence of black  on your walls, floors, or ceilings, you may smell it if it is present. Mold generally gives off a thick, musty odor that is fairly recognizable to most. If you smell mold but you can’t see it, you may have colonies hidden 
behind drywall or under carpeting.

Tips To Handle It

There are a few things you should do immediately upon suspicion of a problem, along with a few things you should not do:

Stay out of any area where you see or smell mold. Mold can travel easily through the air and even hitch a ride on your clothing. Leave the mold cleanup to a professional who is trained in handling it.
Reduce the airflow in your space by turning off the HVAC system and fans. Keeping the mold stationary will help to mitigate the problem. 
Don’t attempt to dry out the area on your own. Specialized equipment will alleviate a moisture problem more quickly and safely than you can yourself. Avoid blowing air across any surfaces that you suspect may contain mold. 
Avoid touching the mold with anything, even disinfectants. Mold should be handled by a professional in order to eliminate the chance of spreading it further. 
Don’t delay in calling a qualified professional to handle the problem.

You can contact SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore at (816) 884-2240.