Water in the Basement

2/15/2024 (Permalink)

The Basement Is Wet.

A residential basement flood situation in North Prince William County, can cause serious problems for those involved if not addressed in a timely manner. Check out the following resources to better understand what to do if standing water occupies your lower floors.

1. Precautions

The most important consideration for any prudent homeowner is the safety of the occupants. Never enter a completely flooded basement area until you have disconnected the home from the power grid, especially if the electrical outlets or other appliances are still in standing water. You might also consider some form of contact protection, such as a pair of boots or waders, to prevent unnecessary exposure to contaminants from gray water.

2. Assessment

Trudging through the water will do you little good without a solid plan. Depending on the form your insurance coverage takes, you may need to make an inventory of the items affected by your basement flood. Your insurer may also require that you take active steps to prevent any ongoing damage, such as routing new sources of rainwater away from the home. The drying process for affected items should begin at this point. Your insurer may insist that certain sensitive items and procedures are handled by a qualified flood damage restoration service.

3. Prevention and Maintenance

Once you have cleared all standing water from the property and moved any water-susceptible belongings, inspect the basement area to determine why water accumulated. Is the sump pump in working order? Are there any clogged or broken pipes or drains between your basement and the sewer? Take steps to inspect and repair these items. Also, note that any drywall or flooring components that have absorbed too much water may need replacement, as these can harbor bacteria and mold.

Though a wide range of natural disasters or plumbing problems can affect any homeowner, a few preventative steps can reduce the risk of a basement flood and help to mitigate the amount of property damage.

The Sprinkler System in a Business Can Cause Damage

2/14/2024 (Permalink)

Damage from fire and the sprinkler system in a  establishment require professional restoration services.

Whether your business is a cafe or a yoga studio, you are susceptible to a fire erupting on the premises. 

Flames can be devastating, but their effect is often compounded by the gallons of water your sprinkler system pours to quench the fire. Rather than guess at the best method to clean and restore your business, allow a professional crew to help you.

Those needing fire damage restoration in North Prince William County can count on SERVPRO®  to give expert advice and mitigate your loss. Upon arrival, our technicians address the sprinkler system and verify that it is safe to enter the premises. With a clear view of the damage, we can make a plan to address the following-

• Soot removal keeping in mind the nature of each surface we’re cleaning
• Deodorizing following the effect of smoke
• Ancillary damage such as mold growth or debris removal

Let SERVPRO of North Prince William County be your ally when you face fire damage. Call us at 703-368-4399 and let us protect your business like it was our own.

Is There A Need for Other Processes After Extracting Water from an Office?

2/14/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Complete Flood Extraction Solutions in Commercial Establishments 

Flooding incidents are significantly inconveniencing since they leave offices inoperable until all the intruding water is extracted. Suppose the flooding at your office involves clean water, such as rainwater from a leaky roof or an improperly sealed window. In that case, you might expect a resumption of operations after extracting all the standing water. 

Which situations can complicate flood extraction in South Kingstown offices? 

• Water seeping below tiles
• Water intrusion into wall cavities
• Absorption of water by porous contents 

Even though the water pooling on surfaces such as floors might appear static, that is rarely the case since moisture migrates continuously. Floors made from non-porous materials such as tiles can mislead you to think that extraction is a sufficient response for commercial flooding in North Prince William County. However, water can seep below the surface through the tile joints. Leaving such water unaddressed can cause significant problems later. 

Our SERVPRO® crews use specialized approaches to remove water trapped below tile surfaces. For instance, we use drying mats, which create a vacuum seal with the floor surface allowing an extraction tool to suck the water trapped beneath. 

How often does floodwater reach wall spaces or other cavities? 

Whether you need to remove water from wall cavities after a flooding incident depends on many factors, including: 

• The period water sits in the property
• The point of intrusion
• The amount of water involved 

When water sits in a property for extended periods, it can easily find a way into hidden areas. Our SERVPRO teams try to prevent this by responding to calls within a few hours, the same day of the incident. Sometimes it is inevitable for water to filter into cavities. For instance, an intrusion from an elevated position readily drips water into wall spaces. Our technicians help remove such water faster by drilling weep holes at the bottom of the wall. We also have wall ventilation systems that help dry the wall materials after extracting the water.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County has the best resources to handle flooding. Call us at 703-368-4399. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

The Importance of HVAC When Dealing With Fire, Smoke, and Soot

2/13/2024 (Permalink)

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, however, the biggest culprit of fires is your furnace. In fact, according to FEMA, heating appliances were the second highest cause of residential building fires in 2014- specifically furnace flame rollout. 

Flame rollout happens when flames escape and “roll” outside of the closed combustion area. 
If those open flames come into contact with insulation or nearby flammable objects, you will be dealing with a dangerous house fire.

Flame rollout happens when there isn’t enough oxygen to “feed” your furnace. Your furnace needs a mixture of oxygen and fuel to create heat, but if there’s not enough ventilation to provide oxygen, the furnace flames will “roll out” in search of oxygen elsewhere.

Tips on how to keep your furnace safe from flame rollout include:

• Regularly check and change your air filter- A clogged air filter can cause a buildup of soot inside the flue (the tunnel where combustion gases exit outdoors). And when soot buildup blocks the flue, this also restricts your furnace’s oxygen supply.
• Check for obstructions in your furnace flue- Your furnace flue connects to the outside, so obstructions like a bird’s nest, leaves, or other debris are very likely and can prevent your furnace from getting oxygen. 
• Install a rollout switch- These devices detect and shut off power to the furnace when the burner area exceeds normal and safe temperatures. This prevents rollout from happening in the first place.
• Schedule annual furnace maintenance- Annual maintenance allows our techs to spot any issues early on that could lead to flame rollout. We’ll make sure everything is working properly to avoid the abnormal situations that lead to flame rollout.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your system.

Smoke Detectors Save Lives

2/13/2024 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms play an important role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters, and on every level of the house.  Business owners should consult their local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan.  Having a plan allows for a quick escape in an emergency situation. 

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms.  Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year.  We have found it useful to change the batteries when daylight savings time either begins or ends.  If an alarm "chirps," the battery is low and should be replaced right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County wants you and your family to be safe. If you have a home or business fire, we are here for you and are a phone call away.  For more on emergency preparedness or service, contact SERVPRO of North Prince William County at 703-368-4399.

Storms Can Cause Flood Damage...Beware For Scammers

1/31/2024 (Permalink)

Storm scammers are everywhere and tend to target distressed homeowners who have suffered damage, especially seniors. Below are some tips on what to look out for and how to protect yourself from those individuals.

1. Scammers will pretend that they represent your insurance company and ask for personal information over the phone. Your insurance company will always notify you if a representative or contractor will be sent to your home.
2. Never sign up with the first contractor to your home. Always get more than one estimate to make sure you do not end up being the victim of price gouging.
3. Officials with government disaster assistance agencies do not call or text asking for financial information. Anyone who calls asking is an imposter.
4. Contractors may call claiming to be partners with your insurance company. If this were to happen, do not provide any personal information.
5. A major red flag is when a contractor says they will only charge you half of what the others will charge. Most times they will take your money and run.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County is always available to help you navigate through your storm damage. Call us at (703)368-4399 today!

What is Biohazard Cleanup and How We Can Help?

1/24/2024 (Permalink)

Exposure to any biological material and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. If such substances are not removed, they can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO of North Prince William County is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

If you're not completely sure if your cleanup needs are considered a biohazard cleanup or not, continue reading for specific types, scenarios, and more information around this service.

Do You Need Biohazard Cleanup Services?

The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, medical incidents, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding, or other biohazards can both be dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience is key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County provides cleanup solutions and recovery services for many biohazard situations including: 

• Sewage backups
• Crime scene cleanup
• Suicide/death accidents
• Homicide cleanups
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup
• Meth lab cleanup

Common Biohazard Scenarios

There are three common biohazard scenarios. These are sewage backups, bloodborne pathogens, and illegal drug manufacturing labs/meth labs.

Sewage Backups- Sewage backups and dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits - these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. We remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture, and help ensure the structure is properly clean, disinfected, and deodorized.

Bloodborne Pathogens- We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from an accident, trauma, crime, or death. Trained SERVPRO franchise professionals clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.

Illegal Drug Manufacturing Labs/Meth Labs- SERVPRO realizes many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as "meth" are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. We follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

Do Not Try at Home

If you believe your home or business is in need of biohazard cleaning, don't try to clean it up on your own. Bleach is only going to go so far, especially if you're dealing with sewage backups, blood, animal waste, and other bodily fluids, especially chemical spills. DIY cleaning solutions should not even be thought of when it comes to scenarios like these. You'll be putting yourself as well as anyone else that uses or lives in the structure at risk for health problems.

When it comes to a crime scene cleanup, this is a specific scenario that is handled by law enforcement and a professional cleaning company like SERVPRO. There are many rules and state regulations that need to be followed when it comes to a cleanup like this, so don't try to just apply bleach and think it's ready to go.

When it comes to sewage backups, the flooding from this creates a contaminated area full of hazardous materials, human waste, and possible chemicals that can be life threatening if touched or if you get too close. Leave it to the professionals.

Biohazard & Sewage Emergency Tips

After any biohazard or sewage contamination in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences.
• Flood water can contain sewage, pesticides, and other contaminants.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.

What to do AFTER a contamination:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Call emergency service personnel if the situation is dangerous to your health.
• Treat ALL bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
• Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage.

What NOT to do after a contamination:

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

SERVPRO Provides 24-Hour Emergency Service

We are available 24 hours a day with our highly trained technicians standing by. We have qualified trained professionals who are ready to respond to these incidents. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.

We don't only offer biohazard cleanup services, but also cleaning services such as air ducts & HVAC, carpet & upholstery, ceiling/floors/walls, drapes & blinds, odor removal, sewage & toilet overflow, vandalism & graffiti, building services, and all kinds of commercial cleaning services.

Crime Scene Cleanup: Turning Chaos into Clean

1/24/2024 (Permalink)

When life throws unexpected challenges our way, it's essential to have professionals who can tackle the mess left behind. SERVPRO of North Prince William County is your trusted partner in transforming chaotic situations back into clean and safe environments.

Safety First, Always

In situations where hazards are a concern, our primary focus is safety. Our approach is akin to navigating through challenging terrain with a flashlight - we follow OSHA and EPA protocols to ensure everyone's safety during the cleanup process. These situations often involve bloodborne pathogens, harmful chemicals, and other dangers. Our team handles these complex scenarios with the utmost care and professionalism, always treating your property and all involved parties with empathy and respect.

Cleaning Up After Difficult Situations

Once the authorities have concluded their investigations, it's our turn to step in and bring order to chaos. Many crime and accident scenes harbor blood and other hazardous contaminants, which can pose significant health risks. SERVPRO of North Prince William County is always ready to respond promptly, equipped with specialized training, protective gear, and extensive experience in safely cleaning trauma and crime scenes.

A Complicated Case: Fire, Water, and Tragedy

We recently had a case that exemplifies the diverse range of services we offer. In this particular instance, a property manager faced a deeply distressing situation. A tenant had intentionally set his condo on fire, which triggered the sprinkler system. Tragically, the tenant also jumped off a balcony to end his own life.

The aftermath of this case was a complex blend of fire damage, water damage from the sprinklers, and the emotional trauma of a life-threatening incident. In such a multifaceted situation, SERVPRO of North Prince William County was called upon to perform a delicate and intricate dance of fire remediation, water remediation, and crime scene cleanup.

What's in Our Cleanup Kit?

1. Fingerprint Powder and Evidence-Gathering Chemicals: Just like a skilled investigator dusts for fingerprints, we're here to clean up the mess left behind by law enforcement. Fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals can be tricky to handle, but our experts have the experience and tools to manage them effectively.
2. Tear Gas and Pepper Spray Residues: In some instances, crime scenes involve more than just a minor altercation. Lingering tear gas and pepper spray residues can be a persistent issue. Our team is well-prepared to clear the air and make your space habitable again.
3. Fire Extinguisher Residue: Fires are a significant challenge, and the aftermath can be just as daunting. Fire extinguisher residue can be pervasive, but our team has the expertise to thoroughly clean it up.
4. Blood, Bodily Fluids, and Tissue Remnants: Dealing with blood and bodily fluids can be emotionally taxing. Our highly trained professionals are here to remove, dispose of, and clean up these potentially hazardous substances, ensuring that your property is disinfected and deodorized.

Eliminating Bloodborne Pathogens

Our cleanup goes beyond surface cleaning. We handle the removal and disposal of bodily fluids, tissues, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accidents, trauma, crimes, or unfortunate incidents. Our professionals don't merely clean; they disinfect and deodorize the structure, ensuring that no trace of the distressing incident remains.

Illegal Drug - "Meth" Labs

Residues from the production of illegal drugs like "meth" can be harmful and volatile. Our technicians follow federal and state guidelines to effectively clean all surfaces, ensuring that your space is safe and free from drug-related hazards.

When life throws a curveball and leaves you dealing with a challenging cleanup, remember that you don't have to face it alone. SERVPRO of North Prince William County is here to provide professional and empathetic assistance. Contact us today, and we'll restore order from chaos, ensuring that your space is clean and safe once more.

Contact SERVPRO of North Prince William County for Specialty Cleaning Services 

Skilled Restoration After a Grease Fire

1/4/2024 (Permalink)

Did you know that cooking happens to be one of the most common causes of a kitchen fire? Out of those fires, the highest risk comes from frying foods. A grease fire in your property is dangerous because it can get out of control quickly. While prevention is critical, SERVPRO® is always available 24/7 when you need help handling the cleanup after a grease fire or any blaze within your home or business. We make it “Like it never even happened.”

Before you need to call us for fire restoration in North Prince William County, these are some helpful tips to remember to help prevent a fire in your kitchen:

• Always cook in a clean area and clean up any spills on your cooktop once it cools. Greasy exhaust hoods or stovetops can catch fire easily.
• Never leave your food unattended while cooking, as it can take minutes for cookware to scorch or boil over.
• Always have a lid within reach, and a fire extinguisher handy should flame erupt. 

Did you know? It is best that you have at least three fire extinguishers readily accessible in your home!

When you call SERVPRO® to handle the fallout of a kitchen fire, there are bound to be pungent odors from burnt proteins. We have specialized methods to break through the most challenging, stickiest soot residue to clean surfaces and remove odors. Our team wipes down cabinetry, discards all food items, and cleans appliances. In some situations, it is best to replace your microwave if it is positioned above the stove, as it will be counterproductive to have a repair team fix it.

A fire in your kitchen can be scary, but SERVPRO of North Prince William County is here for prompt fire restoration service! Call us at (703)368-4399 or request help online.

How to Replace Damaged Drywall

1/4/2024 (Permalink)

Drywall is a common building material that is used in homes and businesses. It is relatively easy to repair, but if the damage is extensive, you may need to replace the drywall altogether.

Here are the steps on how to replace damaged drywall:

1. Inspect the damage. Before you start repairing the drywall, you need to inspect the damage to determine the extent of the damage. If the damage is small, you may be able to repair it with a patch. However, if the damage is extensive, you will need to replace the entire sheet of drywall.
2. Remove the damaged drywall. Once you have inspected the damage, you need to remove the damaged drywall. Use a utility knife to score the drywall around the damaged area. Then, use a pry bar to pry the drywall away from the studs.
3. Measure the new drywall. Once you have removed the damaged drywall, you need to measure the opening to determine the size of the new drywall sheet. Add 1 inch to all sides of the opening to allow for a 1/2-inch overlap.
4. Cut the new drywall. Use a drywall saw to cut the new drywall to the correct size.
5. Install the new drywall. Attach the new drywall to the studs with drywall screws. Use 1-inch screws spaced every 16 inches on center.
6. Tape and mud the seams. Once the drywall is installed, you need to tape and mud the seams. Use a joint compound to fill the seams and feather the edges.
7. Sand the mud. Once the mud has dried, you need to sand it smooth.
8. Paint or wallpaper the wall. Once the mud is sanded smooth, you can paint or wallpaper the wall.

Here are some additional tips for replacing damaged drywall:

• Use a level to make sure the new drywall is installed straight.
• Use a damp sponge to wipe away any excess mud.
• Allow the mud to dry completely between coats.
• Apply two coats of paint or wallpaper.

By following these tips, you can replace damaged drywall like a pro.

Why Do We Have a Reconstruction Team?

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

Great question! Many of our clients suffer water damage and or fire damage to their homes. Our highly trained restoration technicians are prepared to respond immediately to flood or water damage at your North Prince William County Property. After our technicians finish professionally cleaning your home or business, there is sometimes more work to be done. Think of it like this, If a tornado sweeps through your neighborhood and damages part of your roof. You may have water damage due to the rain and the hole in your roof from the storm. So we would come and professionally clean your home, and belongings, but you would still have a hole in your roof. That’s why we have a reconstruction team. Our reconstruction team can repair your roof, replace the flooring, repaint affected areas, and more!

So keep us in mind! SERVPRO's large-loss response is uniquely qualified to handle any disaster. We are prequalified, experienced, and strategically located across The United States to respond to any loss. When an event comes to devastate a community, SERVPRO's goal is to be instrumental in restoring the community the best we can. SERVPRO of North Prince William County is here to help!

My Fridge Is Leaking!!!

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

My fridge is leaking!

One day you come in and there’s a puddle in front of the fridge. You clean it thinking the kids dropped some ice or something, then tomorrow there’s a new puddle. At this point you’re frustrated. Then the third day you know it’s not the kids, it’s the fridge. Right now with gas prices and everything else high you decide to just clean it up as you find it. The real issue is the damage that water is causing to your flooring, especially as it sits.

According to Forbes

According to Forbes, home improvement section Fridge leaks come from leaky water supply lines and/or inlet valves. They also suggest that you should check your water supply line if you notice poor ice making or a poor flow with your water dispenser. 

If that water issue remains you might have to take that flooring up, clean and dry it, and replace that flooring which could be a lot more expensive than getting your fridge repaired.

Here at SERVPRO we always want to help you put your best foot forward to avoid any fire, water, or mold damage. In the event that you do experience water damage, we’re here to help!

Give us a call for your quote today at 703-368-4399.

We take pride in serving your neighborhood! We are a locally owned and operated franchise with employees dedicated to providing a quality customer experience!

What To Do: Fire & Smoke Damage | North Prince William County

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke damage can be devastating! We hope you never have to experience a fire; in case you do, we are here to help and will walk you through the steps to bring your home back to preloss condition. 

There are numerous ways fire damage can devastate homes and businesses. It’s destructive and can leave lingering odors behind not to mention the extensive water damage that results from the firefighter’s efforts to extinguish the flames. The professionals at SERVPRO of North Prince William County, have specialized training, equipment, and experience that will restore your home or place of work back to the way it looked before or even better!

The first steps for SERVPRO of North Prince William County to take your home back to preloss condition.

Step 1: Initial Inspection-

If possible, it’s always good to have your Insurance adjuster present during the first initial inspection but it’s not necessary. We work for you and will work with your adjuster to make the restoration process go as smoothly as possible. It is best if we can all meet at the same time so we can all be on the same page regarding the cleaning and restoration of your home or business. Once the inspection date is set, our Production Manager will meet with you at your home or business to inspect the damages and discuss the cleaning process. They will guide you through step by step, so you know what to expect.  

Once the inspection is complete, they will go over the authorization form and a customer information form to be signed prior to beginning the restoration process.   

Step 2: Content and Structure Cleaning

SERVPRO of North Prince William County has the knowledge, professional equipment and ability to eliminate all traces of a fire. Besides the easily accessible areas, we also examine wall cavities, ductwork, crawl spaces, and plumbing chases to establish whether they also suffered any smoke or fire damage. We will make sure that all fire damage is cleaned, repaired, or removed and leave your home or business "Like it never even happened." Because that is the SERVPRO® way! 

After you, the Adjustor and SERVPRO of North Prince William County have chosen the correct course for your home. SERVPRO will begin the cleaning process of your home or business. Depending on the severity of damage it may be necessary to box up your belongings and bring them back to our cleaning facility. This enables us to clean your contents in a clean environment while the structure cleaning and demoing is being completed. Once all cleaning is finalized of both the structure and your contents, we will bring your belongings back to your home.

Step 3: FINAL WALK Though –

When the cleaning is complete our production manager will do a final walkthrough to address any questions or concerns you may have. Once that is complete, they will present you with a Certificate of Satisfaction form for you to fill out and sign. Your satisfaction is very important to us and we appreciate any feedback you have regarding your experience with SERVPRO of North Prince William County. 

It is our SERVPRO goal to ensure that our customers understand the process and are happy they call us to make their loss “Like it never even happened.”

Who Should You Call? | North Prince William County

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Give us a call 703-368-4399!

After a long rainy season, you notice what looks like mold climbing up the walls of your damp basement, so what’s your next step? Now’s the time to call SERVPRO of North Prince William County! Our production managers are quick to inspect mold growth, determine how it was caused and make a plan of action to remediate and prevent future growth. We know it can be stressful to discover a problem like this in your home, so we are dedicated to walking you through the process of remediation from beginning to end. All our employees, from technicians to office administrators, marketing to managers are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have, and to ensure the process moves quickly and effectively. Of course, we want to help you prevent growth in the first place. Some ways to do that are run a dehumidifier in damp areas of your home, be vigilant for leaks, especially during heavy rains, keep an eye out for any unusual growth as it best to catch it early. If you have any questions about possible mold growth in your home or business or want to learn more about what you can do to prevent it, call the experts at SERVPRO of North Prince William County. We are always Here to Help. We work with all insurance companies. 

Decorate Safely In Your North Prince William Home

11/13/2023 (Permalink)

Pretty lights, candles, and decorations are just a few of the items bringing charm and cheer to the holiday season; however, if they are not used carefully, your holidays may go from festive to frightening. 

The American Red Cross offers the following safety tips to help great reduce the fire risk in your home or business this holiday season: 

• Place Christmas trees, candles, and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents, and candles.
• Make sure light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.
• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or before going to bed.
• Use only sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees.
• Keep anything that can catch on fire - like potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains - away from your stove top.
• Designate one person to walk around your home or business to ensure all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after guests leave.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County professionals wish you all a safe and happy holiday season! 

Christmas Safety Tips | North Prince William County

11/13/2023 (Permalink)

Winter holidays are a time for families and friends to get together. But that also means a greater risk for fire. Following a few simple tips will ensure a happy and fire-safe holiday season.

Holiday decorating:

• Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn. The recommendation is at least 3 feet away.
• Make sure to water your live trees on a regular basis.
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

Holiday Entertaining

• Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about your home fire escape plan.
• Keep children and pets away from lit candles.
• Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
• Ask smokers to smoke outside. Remind smokers to keep their smoking materials with them so young children do not touch them.
• Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding.

Before heading out, or to bed:

• Blow out lit candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
• Turn off all light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.

Not So Fun Facts

• More than one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles.
• More than two of every five decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source.

And Remember, SERVPRO of North Prince William County is here if the unfortunate happens 703-368-4399.

The Vital Basics of Smoke Alarm Maintenance

11/10/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms are essential to your North Prince William County home, and you may not realize it until the day comes when they save your life. While it is easy to forget about this tool when it isn’t beeping in your ears, you must keep it in order to keep everyone in your home safe.

Smoke alarms shouldn’t be ignored once they’re installed, and they’ll require your ongoing maintenance to stay in good working order. When flames finally appear, the work you put in to keep your alarms in working order could mean the difference between life and death!

Follow our recommendations for maintaining your smoke alarm and keeping your home free of fire for years to come:

What’s That Beeping Noise?

When you first hear a smoke alarm beep, it can make you panic and cause you to run around your house looking for a fire. If there is no smoke, that annoying chirping could indicate that your smoke alarm needs to be serviced.

Low batteries are the most common cause of a misbehaving smoke alarm. When the batteries in your alarm begin to fail, you’ll hear a chirping sound every now and then, indicating that it needs to be replaced.

Another common cause of beeping is that your alarm needs to be completely replaced. Replacing the batteries will not suffice in this case, and you will need to have a new model installed.

Keep Everything in Check

To protect your ears from that painful beeping when there’s no fire to be found, you’ll need to perform constant TLC! These actions will ensure your smoke alarms are on the job if flames were to break out.

You shouldn’t just check the batteries in your smoke alarms when the time changes; you should check them at the end of each month! This will ensure all of your alarms are in good working order all year long.

With working batteries, smoke alarms can stay in working order for a long time, but they don’t last forever! Retire all of your alarms after 10 years and replace them with a new model.

Are They in the Correct Location?

Your smoke alarms will work best if you install the appropriate number in the appropriate spots in your home. This ensures that your home’s alarms notify you as soon as there is a fire.

The amount you need in your home will vary depending on its size, but it’s a good idea to keep one on each level, inside each bedroom and hallway. Keep them a safe distance away from your cooking appliances, bathrooms and windows to avoid false alarms.

Once your alarms are placed perfectly, remember to test them every month to ensure every alarm inside your home is good to go!

When you have major fire damage, SERVPRO of North Prince William County is here to help. Give us a call, and we’ll rapidly eliminate traces of smoke, soot and flames!

Avoid a Winter Water Emergency in Your North Prince William County Home

11/10/2023 (Permalink)

Winter weather can be a stunning sight to behold. The beauty of snowflakes falling and blankets of white snow covering our town can be breathtaking. But while this weather might be lovely, it also brings an increased danger of water damage to your property.

The accumulation of snow and ice surrounding your home is a water emergency waiting to happen.

Winter’s effects don't have to put your property at risk for water damage. You can take in its beauty while keeping in mind some of the ways that winter weather might cause a water crisis.

Check Your Gutters

• When it comes to protecting your property from the effects of winter weather, your gutters are a crucial tool. When your gutters are clogged with debris or ice, water can leak down and ruin your roof, basement and foundation. Due to restricted water flow, clogged gutters also increase the risk of an ice dam forming around your home.
• Make sure your gutters are free of any leftover fall debris like leaves and twigs to allow water to flow smoothly away from your home. If you find your gutters are frozen solid, hot water can help melt any ice stuck inside.

Look Out for Melting Snow

• It only takes a few inches of snow to create a water damage threat all around your property. And given that the North Prince William County area has been hit by some severe snowstorms in the past, we should take the time to prepare for the unexpected.
• Snow melt is a common cause of leaks in the winter. As soon as the weather begins to warm up and snow begins to melt, water can flood your foundation, leak through your roof and damage your drain pipes.
• The potential for snow melt is another reason you should keep your gutters clear of debris. As long as your gutters and downspouts are clear, melting snow will have somewhere to go! 

Protect Your Pipes

• You aren't the only one who’s freezing cold in the winter, your pipes can get really chilly, too. When the water in your pipes expands when temperatures drop, excess pressure can lead to a rupture. An unfavorable winter water emergency can result from this sudden surge of water flooding into your home.
• Keep your pipes warm and cozy by adjusting your thermostat and opening up your cabinet doors. If you are wanting to go the extra mile, insulate any exposed pipes and wrap your pipes in heat tape for added protection.

Standard Homeowners Insurance Coverage

11/9/2023 (Permalink)

A standard homeowners insurance policy provides coverage to repair or replace your home and its contents in the event of damage. That usually includes damage resulting from fire, smoke, theft or vandalism, or damage caused by a weather event such as lightning, wind, or hail. Other covered damage could come from external forces like a falling tree.

That coverage includes your heating and cooling systems, along with kitchen appliances, furniture, clothing, and other possessions. Coverage for outbuildings on your property, such as a garage, barn, or shed, along with outdoor grills or fireplaces, swing sets, walls, or fences is also included. A swimming pool or other recreational equipment may also be covered, but those higher-risk items may require additional liability coverage.

In addition, you’re typically covered for living expenses if you need to find alternate lodging while your home is rebuilt. Liability coverage is typically included as well. That means you’ll be reimbursed for medical expenses and legal fees if people that are not living in your home are injured on your property.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County understand the details of your policy, and how much coverage you can expect in the event of a claim. Some lenders only require sufficient homeowners insurance coverage to pay off your mortgage, but in most cases that will not be nearly enough to rebuild your home and replace everything in it.

It’s also important to consider that rebuilding costs may increase. Improvements or additions to made to your home, increased labor or material costs, and changes to zoning requirements might require more coverage.

For all these reasons, you may want to consider a replacement cost homeowners insurance policy rather than an actual cash value policy. The former provides coverage to make repairs or replace your home and its contents at current costs. A cash value policy factors in depreciation due to age, wear and tear, and other factors.

As an example, let’s say a falling tree damages your roof, which was last replaced 10 years ago. A replacement cost policy will pay to replace the roof at today’s cost for labor and materials. An actual cash value policy will deduct 10 years of depreciation. The same logic applies to your furnace, washing machine, and other possessions. Replacement cost is more expensive, but industry experts say it is worth the added cost.

“Know the difference between an actual cash value policy and a replacement cost policy,” says Lynne McChristian of the Insurance Information Institute (III), “The former pays the depreciated cost, so you get less at claim time. With replacement cost, you may pay 10 to15% more for coverage, yet you get much more when you file a claim.”

To estimate how much homeowners insurance coverage you need, multiply the square footage of the home by the local building costs per square foot in your area. For example, if your home is 2,200 square feet and local building costs average $80 per square foot, the cost to rebuild your home would be about $176,000. A local insurance agent should be able to help determine costs in your area. You’ll calculate costs the same way for any outbuildings.

Next, take an inventory of all your possessions with an estimated value. Take photos or videos to provide a visual record. Make a note of where and when you purchased things on your inventory, especially big-ticket items. This will not only provide a record, it will also help determine how much coverage you need, and what items might require additional coverage.

According to the III, most homeowners insurance policies typically cover your belongings at a rate of about 50% to 70% of what your home is insured for. Meaning that if your home is insured for $400,000, you can expect to be reimbursed for somewhere around $200,000 to $280,000 for your furniture, clothing, and other possessions. If your inventory determines that isn’t sufficient for your needs, consider additional coverage.

Riding the Wave: Navigating the Intricacies of Water Damage Restoration

11/9/2023 (Permalink)

Don't panic, SERVPRO of North Prince William is here to help! Give us a call at 703-368-4399

The sudden onslaught of water damage can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed. Whether it's caused by natural calamities or plumbing malfunctions, the swift and often unexpected nature of such incidents makes understanding the restoration process incredibly valuable. At SERVPRO of North Prince William County, we aim to demystify this process and guide you through the essential steps to reclaiming your property from water damage.

Water damage restoration, as the name suggests, is a process of mitigating and restoring a property that has been subjected to water intrusion or flooding. It's not merely about extracting the visible water but involves an intricate series of steps designed to address both the immediate and long-term effects of water damage.

One of the most pressing concerns in the face of water damage is the ticking clock. As the minutes roll by, water can seep into the structure of your property, leading to more extensive damage. Structural elements like walls and flooring can absorb moisture, leading to weakening over time. Furthermore, the damp environment becomes a fertile breeding ground for mold and mildew, posing additional health risks. It's essential to promptly seek professional help to limit these escalating issues.

A reputable water damage restoration company like SERVPRO employs specialized equipment and techniques to address this damage efficiently. The restoration process begins with an assessment to understand the extent of the damage. Water extraction tools are then used to remove the bulk of the water from your property, after which drying, and dehumidification techniques come into play. These processes help eliminate residual moisture, averting mold growth and further structural damage.

Water damage doesn't just affect your property physically; it can leave behind odors and potential health hazards. That's why professional restoration also involves cleaning and sanitizing the affected areas, ensuring a safe environment for occupants.

The end goal of any water damage restoration process is to return the property to its pre-damage condition. This involves repairing any damages caused by the water and possibly redecorating the space to its former glory.

Choosing a professional for water damage restoration can save you time and potential financial loss, not to mention reducing the risk of health hazards associated with mold growth. By seeking professional help, you're not just salvaging your property; you're reclaiming your peace of mind.

The devastation of water damage can be immense, but understanding the restoration process can turn the tide in your favor. Remember, the sooner you act, the better your chances of mitigating the damage and reclaiming your property. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to navigate the stormy seas of water damage restoration.

Fall Maintenance Checklist

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Prince William County is here to help. Take the time to reduce property damage by taking a few steps this fall to prevent property damage. Winter is around the corner and Virginia temperatures can become cold and harsh. Be prepared by taking a little action by doing a little fall preventative maintenance. 

• Seal any air leaks
• Check your roof
• Clean your gutters and downspouts
• Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide 
• Adjust your thermostat
• Have your furnace inspected 
• Check your air and water filters 
• Drain your water heater
• Check your chimney for any blockages. 

When damage happens SERVPRO of North Prince William County is a phone call away! 703-368-4399.

Fall Fires

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

When the cold weather comes around, more residential homeowners begin to use heating elements to warm their space. Incidents and mishaps with these elements can lead to fires that damage the property. The American Red Cross even notes that the amount of house fires increases in the fall and winter months. 

SERVPRO of North Prince William County knows how frequent fires occur, so we want you to know tips to stay safe this season. If a fire does occur in your residential or commercial space, know that SERVPRO has the professionals to restore the damage. Our teams use their expertise and experience to make a fire disaster “Like it never even happened” and provide 24-hour emergency services. To stay safe this fire season, make sure to test your smoke alarms. Also, check that space heaters are clear of surrounding objects and do not leave them unattended. If you will be using a fireplace, be sure to have it inspected and cleaned of debris. Additionally, replace furnace filters and keep the area clean.  

A Fire Checklist Every Homeowner Should Have

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

A house fire is always a devastating event. It leaves homeowners with questions about what they need to do next, who to call, where to begin, etc. With a proper house fire checklist, you can execute the right procedures that can help you mitigate the damage and get back on your feet within a shorter period of time.

What NOT to Do After a House Fire
It’s important to know what NOT to do prior to a house fire. This is for your safety.

• Don’t enter your home until you have received permission from the local fire department that it is safe to do so.
• Don’t turn on the water, gas, or electric until it has been deemed safe to do so by a professional.
• Don’t move or start your vehicle if it has sustained any damage from the fire.
• Don’t try to clean any soot or smoke damage on your own - leave it to the professionals like SERVPRO®, who have the right safety equipment and expertise.

What You CAN Do After a House Fire
There are many things you should not do when it comes to a house fire, and although we understand that you want to go through your home - it is for your safety not to until it is deemed safe. However, there are some things you can do.

• Get permission from your local fire department before you re-enter your damaged property.
• Get in touch with your friends and family to inform them of the disaster.
• Attend to your frightened pets and provide them with the necessary support.
• Call all utility providers (water, gas, electric) and inform them of the disaster.
• Call your homeowner’s insurance company to submit a claim.
• Call SERVPRO of North Prince William County to discuss fire damage and restoration.
• Have an understanding of the different terms of the fire report issues by your local fire department and keep a copy. This report is important for insurance claim purposes.
• Document all fire damage and jot down detailed notes along with photographs of the damage to your property.
• Retrieve your valuables before leaving the property.
• Contact your local police department to inform them that your home will be vacant for a temporary period. It’s also important to inform your children’s schools so their teachers will know that your children will not be attending school temporarily during this difficult time.
• Notify the post office to forward your mail or hold it temporarily
• Start the process of replacing important documents that may have been lost in the fire such as passports, licenses, birth certificates, etc.
• Take care of the emotional needs of every family member, as a fire can inflict a tremendous amount of stress.
• For property damage by wildfires, you may be eligible for Fire Management Assistance.
• For disaster relief, there are several organizations that you can seek assistance from such as The Salvation Army or Red Cross depending on where you are located.

A fire will also cause water damage as a result of firefighters putting out the fire. SERVPRO can help with fire damage restoration, water damage restoration, and even mold remediation if the water damage hasn’t been cleaned up in a timely manner.

As for a checklist for your family to understand in the event that there is a fire, get together and discuss what items you’d want to save if possible, have a plan for your pets, and know the best ways to exit the house.

Call SERVPRO of North Prince William County - 703-368-4399

Did You Find Mold On Popcorn Ceilings?

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

Most mold strains are so minuscule that they can actually be airborne and can settle in all kinds of places. With the right conditions in the presence of moisture, they can germinate easily. Popcorn ceilings are popular due to their distinctive texture that is used to cover up any imperfections in the ceiling. But due to its surface, it is also typically extremely easy to attract mold spores to settle in them and grow into an active colony. Here are some tips for you if you find mold on popcorn ceilings in your home.

How Do I Prevent Mold on My Popcorn Ceiling?

Moisture is a crucial element in the germination of mold. To prevent their growth, you need to keep in mind to ventilate all around your home properly. Some ways can include using the kitchen’s range top vent whenever you are cooking or boiling water, or turning on the bathroom fan for about five to ten minutes after taking a shower. By reducing moisture in the air, it prevents the water vapor from rising and saturating into your popcorn ceiling during evaporation.

Strategic Use of Dehumidifiers

Additionally, underground bedrooms and basements can be vulnerable to the development of bold due to increased moisture, especially during summer when humidity and ambient temperatures are higher. You can counter this by simply placing a dehumidifier in those areas to reduce the level of moisture.

Make Necessary Repairs

Another way moisture can accumulate in your popcorn ceiling is due to a minor roof leak, a clogged gutter, or water leaking into the attic. With time, the accumulated water can saturate your ceiling texture, laying the foundations for increased mold germination.

If there’s damage or an issue, you should almost immediately think about repair solutions before a greater amount of water accumulates and causes a larger mold problem in your home, especially on your popcorn ceiling. Even for plumbing issues, a minor pipe leak in the bathroom upstairs can cause the growth of mold in the ceiling beneath it.

Can I Remove Mold from My Popcorn Ceiling?

If mold does appear on your ceilings, don’t give in to your temptations to paint over them to make them look good. It doesn’t remove the mold; it will also further exacerbate the problem. You can clean it yourself if it’s an early development of mold, by mixing water with a teaspoon of bicarbonate soda. Apply the solution onto the surface and let it sit for a few minutes, before brushing or sponging the affected area. Ventilate the area and let the surface dry thoroughly.

Easy And Fuss-free Clean-up And Restoration Services at SERVPRO of North Prince William County

If you have a more significant mold problem, it’s best to let the professionals do it for you. Here at SERVPRO North Prince William County, our expert, experienced technicians are well-trained and have the required equipment to provide the proper mold remediation and restoration on your popcorn wall. Before help arrives, review these mold damage tips to learn more about what you should and shouldn’t do.

Protect Your Home from Winter Fires

9/28/2023 (Permalink)

Follow these fire safety tips to keep your home and family safe:

• Keep area around heating equipment clear of flammables.
• If you use a fireplace, have the chimney swept yearly, use a sturdy screen to stop sparks and store ashes outside at least 10 feet away from the house. 
• Use space heaters with automatic shut-offs and keep pets & children 3 feet away.
• Test smoke & carbon monoxide alarms and make sure batteries are fresh.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on each floor and teach family members how to use it.
• Keep baking soda by the stove to combat grease fires.

Candles

December is the peak time of year for home candle fires; the top three days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve.

Heating

Heating is the second leading cause of U.S. home fires, deaths and injuries. December, January and February are the peak months for heating fires. 

Carbon Monoxide

Often called the invisible killer, carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, propane, etc. do not burn completely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of CO. Carbon monoxide incidents are more common during the winter months, and in residential properties. 

Winter storms

Home fires occur more in the winter than in any other season, and heating equipment is involved in one of every six reported home fires, and one in every five home fire deaths.

Generators

Portable generators are useful during power outages, however, many homeowners are unaware that the improper use of portable generators can be risky. The most common dangers associated with portable generators are carbon monoxide poisoning, electrical shock, and fires. 

Electrical

Electrical home fires are a leading cause of home fires in the United States. Almost half of all home electrical fires involved electrical distribution or lighting equipment, and almost another half involved other known types of equipment like washer or dryer fans, and portable or stationary space heaters.

The Dangers of Having a Leaky Roof.

9/28/2023 (Permalink)

With all the different kinds of weather that we have had in the last month or so, a durable roof is one of the most important infrastructures of a house, right after a strong, sturdy foundation. Just like it’s necessary to fix cracks in a foundation to ensure the rest of a house isn’t affected from the ground up, it’s important to fix leaks in a roof to protect a home from the top down, too. If you suspect you have a leaky roof, a roofing contractor can determine the cause and perform roof repairs, if necessary. To avoid any leaks or other issues from happening in the future, make sure to schedule regular inspections, perform general maintenance and upkeep, and have repairs completed as quickly as possible, since acting quickly could help you save time and money. 

Causes and Sources of Leaks

There are a number of reasons why a roof may develop leaks, from both natural and man made causes. No matter the cause, it's imperative to seek the services of a reliable roofing contractor to get your roof back in its best shape so that your home is protected from the elements.

SHINGLES AND FLASHING

Something as small and simple as a broken shingle could be the culprit of a leak. Severe weather, hail and high winds can cause shingles to become loose, crack and break off, leaving your roof exposed. If the nails used to secure shingles aren't properly sealed with a durable coating like roofing cement, it can leave exposed holes which can allow water and moisture to get into the attic. Broken or cracked flashing—the pieces of material installed under shingles, on joints and around chimneys—can also cause leaks. Both damaged flashing and missing shingles can be easily identified, usually as different, discolored patches or exposed areas on a roof. You may even find pieces of them in your yard after a bad storm.

IMPROPER INSTALLATION/REPAIRS

If you've had previous roof repairs done but if a leak keeps coming back, you've either got a problem with the workmanship of the roofing contractor who did the work or the materials they used (or both). Improperly installing elements such as skylights and chimneys can also cause roof leaks - this can happen from incorrectly measuring and fitting fixtures and/or insulation that's started to decay or disintegrate. Leaks from this kind of problem are generally easy to spot. Just look for wet spots or small streams of water coming out of skylights or running down walls/chimneys when it rains.

PLUMBING AND PIPE PROBLEMS

Pipes run throughout the home including the roof, which means there are a number of areas that are common leak sources related to your home's plumbing and ventilation system. These include plumbing vent pipes, ventilation fan ducts, attic vents and exhaust pipes/flues (for appliances). Anytime there are worn or cracked rubber boots and/or broken flashing around the vent pipes that come out of the roof, it's likely you're in need of repairs.

CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE

Since the attic is usually the least insulated—and the highest elevated—place in your home, it is more prone to mold and mildew growth from excessive moisture that can accumulate when condensation becomes trapped. The cause of the moisture is from wet weather such as rain, sleet, and hail, but also ice dams melting and the fluctuation in temperatures when seasons change. You'll most likely notice a smell—before you see the mold—as a sign of a leak in your roof.

What Can Happen if You Don't Get Roof Repairs

Whether you’re dealing with issues associated with weather and moisture or improperly installed parts, it’s essential to perform any necessary roof leak repairs as soon as possible – not only to fix the problem, but also to prevent any future damage. For example, if you have a moisture issue causing a leak that goes untreated, it could result in mold and mildew growth, which could not only destroy the wood in the attic, but also negatively affect your health.

Every roof experiences some level of wear and tear from all types of weather (sun, rain, hail, extreme heat, wind, etc.). As a home's first line of defense from these elements, it's important to make sure you have a durable, weatherproof roof that's properly sealed and maintained in order to increase the life cycle of the roof and decrease the risk of damage to it.

 The Importance of Roof Repairs

If you have a roof leak, repair it as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to help protect your home from bigger problems such as flooding. Contact a roofing contractor to have a thorough assessment of the roof completed and get advice on what steps you need to take to repair the damage. It’s best to work with a roofing contractor because their expertise is in roofing and they will be able to pinpoint and address your specific needs. Depending on the cause of the damage, your home insurance company may cover the costs of the roof repair, so make sure to contact your insurance company, too.

Lastly, if you should have a roof that leaks into the structure and need to begin the mitigation process, call SERVPRO of North Prince William County. Our team of professionals specialize in removal and mitigation of storm damaged material and have the experience of quickly drying out affected areas from storm and weather damage before it is made worse. We at SERVPRO of North Prince William County partner with all major insurance companies and vendors to make the transition back to “Like it never even happened,” as quickly as possible.

Call us today and let us show you. SERVPRO of North Prince William County (703)368-4399.

What Makes Mold Damage Threatening for North Prince William County Homes?

9/20/2023 (Permalink)

Understanding the Impact of Mold Damage Shows How SERVPRO Helps North Prince William County Properties.

Mold is a common threat to homes especially during the warmer months, where rainfall and severe weather become a concern for the area. Under the appropriate conditions, microbial colonies can develop in as little as 48 to 72 hours, using organic matter and building materials as hosting materials and food sources for the growing organism. There are many catalysts responsible for moist environments in the house that lead to mold remediation needs, including:

• Flooding
• Water damage
• Elevated humidity
• Damp confined spaces

Types of Residential Mold

Homeowners may have an easier time choosing professional mold remediation and effective cleanup when they understand what they are dealing with on their property. There are hundreds or more types of internal mold threats a home might experience. Aspergillus, for example, is a type of mold often found in an air conditioning system. Cladosporium is the mold typically found in moist, dark spaces or on drywall behind toilets. Black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, is another possible development for North Prince William County residences that requires swift mold removal.

Is Mold Dangerous? 

Certain molds can produce byproducts that infiltrate the environment, but not all of them. A driving force for professional mold remediation should be the impact of these active organisms on installed building materials, contents, and other surfaces.  

How Can SERVPRO Remediate Active Colonies? 

Choosing the appropriate mold remediation strategy is contingent on the type of organism in the house, the affected areas, and the severity of the infestation. A thorough mold inspection allows our mold remediation team to create a custom recovery plan for the property. We begin with efforts like surface cleaning, but often more aggressive and abrasive cleaning tactics will be needed.

Are There Lingering Concerns After Mold Removal? 

Often there are some lingering effects and concerns with treatment. While much of the mold remediation process can be handled rapidly through direct action by our SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians, there are other needs your home might have that can draw out the recovery process until they are resolved. Some include:

• Mold Malodors – Volatile organic compounds generate harsh malodors throughout the property, where mold becomes a concern. We have effective deodorization equipment available to neutralize these smells and promote a comfortable living condition for the residents.
• Mold Damage Repairs – There are times when your home may require some degree of damage repair after the treatment and removal of active colonies. Our team can help you quickly identify these areas to overcome this final step.
• Post-Damage Surface Treatment – We can treat nearby surfaces otherwise unaffected by spreading mold using mold inhibitors and antimicrobial products. The objective is to make these surfaces uninhabitable if moisture becomes a concern again in the immediate future.

Understanding how microbes impact a home or business can help property management seek out experienced mold remediation help when these problems arise. Allowing mold to go unchallenged lets the colonies spread, worsening the situation. Our SERVPRO of North Prince William County team can help 24/7 when you call (703) 368-4399.

Are Flood Restoration and Repair Services in North Prince William County Expensive?

9/20/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Works Hard to Mitigate Loss and Reduce Expense for North Prince William County Residents in Need of Flood Restoration

the damage caused by flooding in residential properties can snowball without correct and timely intervention. Often, the trauma of a flood scenario can make it difficult to make the right decisions and prioritize effectively. Our crew chiefs have years of experience working in these scenarios and can help you with:

• Flood restoration
• Basement flooding cleanup 
• Cleaning up after sewer backup

An efficient flood restoration and repair operation in your home relies on excellent task management. We operate with an agile team that can quickly alleviate your concerns and put in place the necessary steps to reduce losses in your home significantly.

• Setting up a staging area for equipment can greatly reduce time and foot traffic in a flooded property.
• Organizing contents restoration and storage are possible with our climate-controlled warehouses. 
• We can help record, inventory, and track every step of restoration to make your insurance claim easier. 
• The CCIS Contents Claim Inventory System can catalog and document belongings.

In emergency, contact SERVPRO of North Prince William County for flood restoration and repair at (703)368-4399. 

Understanding the Components of Water Removal

9/18/2023 (Permalink)

Mitigation Starts with Water Removal

Standing water can quickly threaten your household with flooding, broken pipes, appliance failures, and other major water damage events. More than this, several types of water removal services might be necessary to avoid costlier structural damage.

Getting Emergency Services Started Early

Water mitigation hinges on early efforts like water removal for homes. Because there are multiple ways to reach this goal, we first prioritize the pressing issues like standing water and saturated building materials. The prompt arrival of our SERVPRO professionals ensures no delay in getting these mitigative steps started fast.

What Tools Influence Water Removal Services?

With how important the water removal objective is to the restoration process, it is no surprise that many of the tools and equipment in our inventory are designed for this purpose. We utilize several strategies and approaches to minimize moisture migration through the structure, however possible. Some of the common implements and instruments include:

• Extractors: Water removal services begin with eliminating surface water by using pumps and vacuums. 
• Air Movers: High-velocity blowers promote evaporation of wet materials, often preserving these elements in the process. 
• Special Drying Tools: Some of our equipment is exclusively designed for specific materials that get wet, such as drying mats pulling moisture from plank flooring. 
• Dehumidifiers: These tools help remove water in the air, which can increase with evaporative drying tools like air movers. 
• Positive Pressure Systems: These units (injecti-dry) infuse dry air into the wall systems to promote evaporation of moist cavities. 

Water removal services combine several efforts of our professionals to eliminate as much water and harmful moisture from the property as possible throughout the mitigation and restoration processes. Our SERVPRO of North Prince William County team arrives with the tools listed here to get emergency services started as soon as possible and protect your property from avoidable harm. Call now at (703)368-4399.

Water Removal Is the 1st Step in Drying Out Your Raleigh Business

9/18/2023 (Permalink)

With Our Equipment, Water Removal Is Fast & Easy.

SERVPRO works with area business owners after disasters happen. These situations can start with leaks, backed-up drains, or a broken sprinkler system. The complete restoration of a business requires water removal first.

To protect your North Prince William County business, water removal professionals must start the process as soon as possible. Otherwise, the damage caused by water spreading continues to worsen. We use the most efficient and powerful equipment possible to do our tasks.

Because we continue the water extraction process until we get the interior of your business dry again, our pump trucks’ large hoses are not the only things we use. Our customers also see different portable water extraction units, such as:

• Hand-held devices, portable wet vacs
• Weighted devices, riding (Rovers) machines
• A floor-mat system.

One type of device is so small it can fit into places that can hold large amounts of water that was forced into small spaces. Once in, this bonded water is no longer under the pressure that forced it into whichever area it now occupies. The small tubes on these injecti-dry system does the job.

Using weighted devices to pull clean water out of your carpeting and the underlying padding can reduce restoration costs by saving the carpet and reducing what needs replacing. These work by forcing the water out and into the device. We might use a small-sized device called the Claw or riding units for larger areas and hallways.

Wood floors are beautiful, but they also require a substantial investment. To rescue these from destruction, we use our Injecti-Dry system. It removes moisture from underneath the floorboards and can also force warm, dry air into enclosed spaces, including the interior cavities of walls or underneath cabinets and stairwells.

We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. Call SERVPRO of North Prince William County at (703)368-4399 for the professional water removal services you need.

Why Standing Water Should Be Avoided

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

After flooding occurs, the surface water left behind can affect your North Prince William County home and or office. Standing water can absorb into the materials and ultimately allows for the deterioration of exposed structural elements. The pooling of the water can also present potential health effects or hazards for those exposed and remaining in the area. SERVPRO North Prince William County offers the quickest possible extraction, as well as drying solutions for your North Prince William County property after flooding. We also have ways to reduce the standing water concerns by offering extremely efficient flood removal for North Prince William homes. To accomplish this, we call upon a wide array of extraction and moisture removal tools in our well stocked inventory. 

So, What Tools Are Best for Drying Up Flood Damage? 

Every flooding situation is different from the last, there are different tools and machines that can remove water or dry the area better than others. Identifying the most efficient solution is always the priority, once the sooner standing water gets addressed, the less damaging the flood becomes. Some of the standard water removal and drying tools include:

• Air Movers
• Floor Mat Systems
• Dehumidifiers
• Positive Pressure Systems
• And much more!

After a flood, you want your home to look like it did before the disaster as soon as possible. Our SERVPRO of North Prince William County team can help anytime you need us. Let us take the hassle of dealing with a disaster off your shoulders, call us today at 703-368-4399

Prepping For The Storm Ahead

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

With Winter gone and Spring/Summer weather here again, the storms can be as unexpected as the damage they cause. However, with the right preparation, most of the storm damage can be minimized or prevented entirely, saving you time and money. Below we have listed some tips to help prevent damages upcoming storms may cause.

Clean Out Your Gutters-

When it rains, and your gutters are clogged, it could cause the overflow to run down into your home. Often, this water can go undetected and sit. Over time, mold can grow in these areas that remain wet. Having clean and sturdy gutters before the rain comes can minimize the damage a storm may cause.

Maintain Landscaping and Unclog Drainage-

Depending on the land your home is built, water runoff can accumulate around your foundation, and flood your homes. Fortunately, there are solutions with the right landscaping. Better pathways can be created for water runoff, guiding the water away from your home. If you have noticed puddles or water accumulation near your home when it rains, contact a professional to help, before a storm comes. That can make the difference in whether your home is damaged or not.

Trim or Remove Damaged or Dead Trees-

Storm damage often occurs when a tree or limbs break off and fall onto a home. Snow and rain can weigh down trees, while wind can make them bend. If this happens to trees and limbs that are dead or damaged, there’s a high chance that they will break. Before the storm season comes, be sure to trim your trees, and remove all dead limbs. 

Common Sources of Foul Odors in a Home

6/1/2023 (Permalink)

1. Mold is one of the most common causes of foul odors in the home. Signs of mold include black, green, or bronze stains on walls, ceilings and cabinets. The telltale sign of mold is the distinctive musty smell. If you do not see the mold visibly it may be required for you to have an IH (Industrial Hygienist) come out to take samples for mold testing.
   
   Tip: The first step in addressing a mold issue is to identify and resolve any moisture issues. Leaky pipes must be repaired. Exhaust fans in the bathrooms and kitchen must be functional and adequate to remove excessive moisture. A home dehumidifier may need to be installed to reduce overall air moisture, and the crawl space may need to be encapsulated with a moisture barrier. A sump pump and a dehumidifier can eliminate moisture in the basement and crawl space. 
   
   
2. Natural gas may be causing a foul odor in the home. The rotten-egg smell is added as a safety precaution since natural gas is odorless.
   
   Tip: If the smell of gas is detected, inspect the stove and any pilot lights for leaks. Open doors and windows to allow fresh air into the home, and call the utility company or a professional for assistance. Take all necessary safety precautions, including evacuating the house.
   
   
3. Sewer Odors if there is a sulfuric or rotten-egg smell in the home, the source may be one or more unused sinks in the guest bathroom. Drains have a u-shaped joint just below the drain hole. The curved pipe captures water which acts as a seal to prevent noxious odors from the sewer or septic tank from seeping into the home. If the water is not replenished by occasional usage, evaporation will eventually eliminate the barrier and allow the offensive odors to escape into the house.

   Tip: Recharge the water in the u-shaped joint on a weekly basis. The water will also serve to flush any organic matter through the system, reducing odors in the bathroom.

4.  Pet odors can be a real nuisance. “Accidents” on the floor or furniture, wet fur, glandular emissions, pet bedding, and whatever is on their paws from the yard or pasture are sources of pet odors.

   Tip: Regular baths and grooming will take care of pet odors at the source: the pet. Carpets, area rugs, flooring, furniture, and pet bedding need to be cleaned several times a year to reduce odors.

5. Smoke from cigarettes, cigars, or a pipe is obvious upon entering a home. The smell is everywhere. Tobacco smoke coats flat surfaces and penetrates porous materials such as upholstery, curtains, clothing, and carpet. The lingering odor is challenging to remove. The nicotine and other chemicals are also known as third-hand smoke.

   Tip: Removal of cigarette smoke requires a whole-house approach. All surfaces must be washed with a safe, effective cleaning product. Rubber gloves, protective eyewear, a mask, long sleeves, and long pants are necessary to protect against nicotine poisoning. Walls and ceilings may need to be sealed with a high-quality stain- and odor-blocking primer before applying paint.

6. Household garbage can produce strong, disgusting smells that contaminate the home.

   Tip: Solutions include using a kitchen trash can with a lid. Use a plastic bag in the can to keep the inside of the trash can clean. Empty the trash regularly. Avoid putting scraps and grease in the garbage. Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the can to absorb odors. Wash the can with an all-purpose cleaner or a bleach solution to remove grime and kill bacteria.

7. Something as small as a decaying tiny mouse can create a strong, pungent odor that can make a home uninhabitable. A dead animal in the crawl space, in the attic, or between walls can be difficult to find and remove.

   Tip: Professional services may be needed to locate the issue, clean it up, sanitize the area, and deodorize the home.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County specializes in odor control in the home. If the situation has gotten out of hand, our IICRC Certified Technicians have the equipment, advanced cleaning techniques, and EPA - approved products that make a smelly home clean, fresh-smelling, and healthy. 

Contact us by at 703-368-4399 or email Office@SERVPRO10476.com to learn more about our services for the North Prince William County area. 

Water Mitigation vs. Water Damage Restoration

6/1/2023 (Permalink)

When asking yourself if you need water mitigation or water restoration services, you've likely had water damage and are looking for a water damage cleanup company for your business or residential home in North Prince William County, VA. SERVPRO of North Prince William County specialize in both mitigation and restoration. Our team is ready and willing to assist you through the water cleanup process. 

What Is Water Mitigation?

When you have any kind of water damage, you almost immediately think of keeping it from getting worse. That is where mitigation comes into play. Take these steps to recovery: 

• Cut off the main power supply to reduce the possibility of injury or fire.
• Block additional water from entering the area if safe and practical to do so.
• Prevent as much water as possible from spreading into other areas.
• Remove any easily portable items that can hamper mitigation efforts.

A water damage restoration company can help you take additional steps in the mitigation process. Water easily enters areas that aren’t open to your view. Experts will bring in water extraction equipment to further minimize damage any hidden water may cause. It's also important to keep air circulating to assist with drying. This is usually accomplished by using commercial fans and/or dehumidifiers.

What Is Water Restoration? 

Restoration is the process of getting everything back to normal. This usually takes longer than mitigation. At a minimum, it typically involves utilizing more sophisticated methods or equipment to locate and remove hidden water. Technicians with expertise in structural drying and odor control can determine how best to accomplish both of those tasks. This will to assist in reducing the financial impact of the damage. Depending on the scope and severity of the loss, restoration may include major structural repair. The restoration company you choose can manage the project to completion, alleviating you of that responsibility, allowing you to concentrate on serving clients.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County, VA responds no matter when you call. Having a reputable water damage company on call anytime can help to minimize the impact repairing water damage can have on conducting your property. 

Communication is Key

5/2/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Prince William County knows that when your residential or commercial property is threatened with damage, it can be a VERY stressful and unknown time. This is why we make it a priority to communicate with our clients every step of the way. SERVPRO will provide detailed information to our customers in every step of the restoration process so that our valued customers are never left in the dark. 

Our office staff will talk through options and scheduling with the customer. The staff will gather information and let the customer know SERVPRO is here to help. A project manager will scope the loss and provide an estimate whether it's an initial or final. These managers will also discuss the restoration process with the customer and inform him or her of the work that will need to be done. Our skilled technicians will work to make fire, water or mold damage "Like it never even happened." Our consistent communication continues through the payment process with our office staff and follow-up conversations. 

Let Us Know How We Are Doing?!

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of North Prince William County we strive to provide the highest quality and most efficient services to our customers no matter the size. No matter what your expectations are our SERVPRO team will strive to exceed them. Providing our customers with a positive experience after a disaster and getting your business back to normal is our top priority! 

As a large team we understand you want to know how great our employees are before choosing to use our services. If you have been serviced by SERVPRO of North Prince William County but haven't left a review yet there is still time! We would love for you to share your SERVPRO experience with our past, present and future customers. 

Click here to share your experience. 

North Prince William County - Board Up Services

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Prince William County provides 24 hour, 365 day a year emergency board-up services for any residential or commercial location in the North Prince William County area. Whether you experience vandalism, storm damage, a fire, or another unexpected disaster, you want to restore your property to its normal state as soon as it can be done. Boarding-up incorrectly can cause additional moisture damage, making the situation even worse. We have Contractors standing by and ready to assist in any emergency event. We can provide you with one-stop shopping. Leave the inconvenience of board-ups to the professionals at SERVPRO of North Prince William County to make it "Like it never even happened." Call us at 703-368-4399 to ensure no further damage occurs to the structure or its contents.

Storm Damage

4/19/2023 (Permalink)

Its storm season which increases the probability of high winds and rain that lead to the risk of storm damage to your property. SERVPRO of North Prince William County is faster to any size disaster and will help you step by step through the restoration process.

What if a tree falls on my house?

• Instead of worrying about calling individual services like electricians, tree removal and plumbers, simply make one call to SERVPRO of North Prince William County and we will find the right service providers including a system that each Technician has been fully trained to follow.
• Do not re-enter the property without being advised to do, so. Do not worry about your personal belongings. We will make sure that your home is secured until repairs are complete. If items need to be removed, we can facilitate that process and make sure the belongings are returned to their original place.
• Evacuate the property

Storm Damage Restoration

Many homeowners like to be fully informed about the restoration process. We want you to have peace of mind and feel good about trusting SERVPRO of North Prince William County with your cleanup and restoration.

• Ensure the tree and tree debris is removed from the property.
• Secure the roof with a temporary tarp to prevent no further damage inside.
• Make sure any tree debris indoors has been removed.
• Assess damage and ensure demolition of damaged areas including ceilings and walls.
• Spray exposed surfaces an antimicrobial agent

Our #1 priority is to make storm damage as stress free as possible.

Hurricane Tips & Tricks

4/19/2023 (Permalink)

Here’s a few tips and tricks to better prepare!

• Before the Storm: Gather food, water, medicines and power supplies.  Organize supplies into a Go-Kit and a Stay-at-Home Kit. Keep personal, financial, and medical records safe. Anchor objects that would be unsafe to bring inside, such as gas grills and propane tanks. Trim or remove trees close enough to fall on your home. Stockpile protective materials such as plastic sheeting and sandbags. Consider elevating the heating system, water heater, and electric panel.

• During the Storm: Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level during the storm. Put as many walls between you and the outside as you can. Stay away from windows, skylights, and glass doors. If the eye of the storm passes over your area, there will be a short period of calm, but at the other side of the eye, the wind speed rapidly increases to hurricane force winds coming from the opposite direction. So, make sure you stay secured and connected to what’s going on.

• After the Storm: Stay out of floodwater!  Floodwater can contain many things that may harm health, including germs, dangerous chemicals, human and livestock waste, wild or stray animals, and downed power lines among other things. If the power is out, use flashlights instead of candles. If you must use candles, keep them away from anything that can catch fire.  Watch out for fallen power lines that may be hanging overhead. Stay clear of fallen power lines. Call the electric company to report them. Always make sure it is safe to leave before you try to evacuate the area.

Moisture in Commercial Buildings

3/15/2023 (Permalink)

Moisture problems in commercial settings can be caused by a variety of conditions, including increased humidity, condensation, and roof and plumbing leaks. High humidity at 60% and above is the leading cause of commercial moisture problems. Some moisture problems in buildings have been caused by changes in building construction practices during the past twenty to thirty years. These changes have resulted in more tightly sealed buildings that may not allow moisture to escape easily. Moisture issues are also associated with delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance, due to budget and other constraints. Temporary structures, such as trailers and portable classrooms, have frequently been associated with moisture and mold problems. 

If you suspect any moisture issues in your facility, contact your local SERVPRO of North Prince William. We have handle commercial and residential facilities and can service you quickly and efficiently. "Like it never even happened." 

Fire Restoration

3/2/2023 (Permalink)

A fire is one of the most destructive elements of nature and can turn a habitable home into a heap of dust within a short amount of time. Even though there are proactive methods to control the destruction of the house, you cannot snub the damage that may have already occurred. Not only do the flames from a fire cause charring on things like cabinets, but you would be looking at the smoke, which causes widespread damage. The smoke penetrates carpets, clothing, furniture, upholstery, and other porous materials. The ultimate goal of fire restoration in damaged  homes is to reinstate the property and contents to pre-incident condition, leaving a clean and safe environment. If cleaning is not done properly, the smoke odor lingers, and further ruin can occur to your contents and structure. SERVPRO professionals start by evaluating the situation, including the extent of the damage, to know what they are dealing with. Depending on the situation, our crews can use onsite and offsite techniques to restore your home. Onsite restoration may include the removal of odor particles using the following equipment: 

• Air Scrubbers
• Thermal Fogging 
• Ozone Treatments

Cleaning Smoke Damage

Only some restoration projects require a pack out. Some contents can be manipulated and cleaned within their respective spaces. SERVPRO crews might even clean items onsite and then move them to a designated area that has not been affected to be stored. However, when cleanup requires multiple treatments, contents could be packed and taken to the Franchise Warehouse for cleaning. 

SERVPRO of North Prince William County knows rebuilding a fire damaged home can be stressful, but you don't have to face fire restoration alone. Call us at (703)368-4399. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

Fires in the Warmer Months

3/2/2023 (Permalink)

Looking forward to the warmer weather after the long cold months of winter. Spring is in full bloom, and summer is right around the corner. 

It's a time of renewal and getting outdoors. There are plenty of activities to do outdoors such as hiking, going to the lake, grilling, and barbecuing with friends and family, just to name a few.

With the warmer weather families will begin to gather for reunions, graduations and the seasonal cookouts that everyone loves. That also brings with it the risks of increased fires. 

Unfortunately, spring sees more daily fires on average than any time of year. But by being cautious, you can minimize fires at home this season. 

Here are some great places to start: 

The grill: Grills are one of the biggest culprits of spring fires. It presents a substantial risk due to the combination of flame, grease, heat and gas. But just taking a few precautions can greatly reduce the risk of a fire on the barbecue grill! Make sure the grill is cleaned prior to every use and that all parts are in proper working order. Replace any worn or damaged components before grilling and keep the grill at least six feet away from any flammable objects, especially the home! Lack of proper cleaning is responsible for almost 20% of grill fires! 

The fire pit. While the grill gets it share of blame for accidental fires, the fire pit can be dangerous as well. Gathering on a cool spring or summer evening around a fire pit can provide some of the best rest and relaxation after a long day or week. Keep these safety tips in mind: Kids should never be left alone or around a fire pit. Keep a bucket of water close by at all times. Don't add pine needles or leaves to a fire pit as this can cause "flare-ups" and embers can be carried away by the wind. If you are cooking hot dogs or roasting marshmallows do it over the embers and not the open flame, which will help avoid the flame damage and help you get that elusive perfect roasted finish that you're looking for. 

Chimneys and dryer vents. Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned by a professional at least once every season. Ash, soot and creosote buildup is a major cause of fires, and with proper maintenance, this risk can be reduced. The failure to clean dryer vents is a leading cause of fires that emanate from the dryer. 

Our technicians are on speed dial 24/7 for emergencies. If you encounter fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we will be there faster and have it cleaned up sooner. Experience the SERVPRO of North Prince William County difference. 

Sewer Line Issue

2/28/2023 (Permalink)

While a blocked sewer drain is relatively common in commercial properties, legitimate concerns over sewer line functionally may be few and far between. However, when major sewer line issues occur, it is essential to remedy the problems quickly to avoid potential backups and structural damage. 

Be aware of these four signs, which may indicate sewer line problems.

1. Odors 
   While drain or toilet overflow are frequent problems in commercial properties, you should pay attention to odors surrounding these problems. For instance, if after clearing a clog you smell sewer gas, you may want to call a plumber for an inspection, as strong sewer smells can be an indicator of issues further in the line.
   
   
2. Clogged Drains
   A blocked sewer will not only cause unpleasant odors to occur in your building, but the blocked pipe can also cause frequent clogging of your drains and toilets. This problem may also cause sewer backups into your facility.
   
   
3. Indentations in Landscaping
   Also, while you may not have any clogging issues, it is still possible that your sewer lines have failed. Pipe breaks may cause indentations in your landscaping, like divots on the lawn. If the break is severe enough, it is possible that sewage is leaking into the grounds of your property. Eventually, this can also lead to a sewage backup in your building.
   
   
4. Deformations in Landscaping 
   In addition to indentations in the lawn, you may notice perpetual puddling in certain areas. You may also see that areas of your parking lot have sunken or cracked along with sidewalks. Depending on how close the break is to your building, you may even notice cracks in the foundation. These issues often require the expertise of a disaster restoration specialist in the area to resolve, which depending on your insurance policy may be covered.
   
   You should be aware of the warning signs of such a problem so that you can resolve the issue as early as possible.

Commercial Building Water Damage

2/28/2023 (Permalink)

Due to the wide variety of issues that can stem from water damage, it is one of the most difficult challenges a property owner can face. Depending on the severity, water damage can compromise structural integrity and damage belongings. When left unresolved or if not taken care of properly, water can result in the growth of mold. 

What is water damage? 

Water damage is the type of damage that occurs on a structure and to personal property due to excessive moisture and collected water. Most often water damage will occur where water can collect without notice. For example, they will occur in the lowest depths of one's property such as crawl spaces and the basement.

Here are some examples of the equipment used for water damage repair services: 

• Air Movers: Help dry water-damaged flooring and surfaces by forcing moisture to evaporate more quickly
• Dehumidifiers: Help by maintaining the humidity of the room, a dehumidifier is a catalyst for drying an area that has excessive moisture
• Air Scrubbers: Filter out any particles in your indoor air which may include airborne contaminants including the smell of musk and smoke
• Moisture Meters: Gauges the severity of water damage on a surface or an area by assessing the moisture preset

SERVPRO of North Prince William County, we have state of the art equipment to ensure that your property is taken care of properly. By reducing the time it takes to dry your property, you'll be saving time and money. Call our SERVPRO Team today at (703)368-4399.

The Science of Drying

2/27/2023 (Permalink)

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychometrics is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be able a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damage area, your local SERVPRO of North Prince William County professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. If your home or business suffers a water damage, your local SERVPRO team will: 

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening. 
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

After the Storm... What's Next?

2/27/2023 (Permalink)

The second you notice flooding in your home do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of North Prince William immediately! Time is the biggest factor in preventing further damage, as well as slowing the spread of water into places like your floors and walls. With a quick enough reaction to the issue can make a huge difference! Regardless, if you notice damage days after a storm we can still help. With a team of experts who know the ins and outs of storm damage we can find the solution to your issue! Not only do we perform the cleanup and treatment of the area, we restore what was ruined. When we leave it will be, "Like it never even happened." 

Ways To Prevent Damage and Prepare for a Winter Storm

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

A winter storm can be beautiful, but it can also be a nightmare for your business if you are unprepared for it in North Prince William County. The heavy snow, wind and ice that accompanies the storm can cause severe damage and costly repairs. When these disasters happen, call your insurance company and a storm damage restoration service immediately to file a claim and begin repairs. While you cannot prevent a storm from coming your way, there are several steps you can take to prevent some of the damage from happening and mitigate loss. Here are a few ways to prepare your business for winter weather.

1. Insulate Your Building

Make sure your building is properly insulated. If temperatures drop below freezing, your pipes could freeze and burst, causing flood and water damage. Routinely inspect your building’s heating system to ensure it is working properly and keep the temperature above 55°F to avoid a pipe break.

2. Perform Regular Maintenance

Keep a regular maintenance schedule to make sure windows, doorways and the outside of your building are in good condition. Over time, building materials can wear down, allowing cracks and gaps to form which can reduce the structural integrity and insulation of your building and make it more susceptible to storm damage and flooding. In addition, you should routinely inspect your roof. Replace any broken shingles and make sure shingles are intact and firmly nailed down to prevent roof leaks and wind damage.

3. Stock Emergency Supplies

Create an emergency weather kit that includes snow shovels, ice-melting salt and a first aid kit in case a winter storm comes through unexpectedly. Keep non-perishable food items available in case you are stuck in your building overnight and cannot go home.

4. Watch Local Weather

During the winter months, stay on top of the local weather forecast. Start preparing early if a snowstorm is heading your way, and make sure your staff is adequately prepared.
A winter storm can cause severe damage if you do not take it seriously. Performing routine maintenance on your building and keeping an eye on the weather can greatly reduce damage and keep your business safe.

Put the Nightmare Behind You

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with the aftermath of criminal activity prevents you from moving on with your life after a tragedy or frightening experience. Many different substances, odors, and dangerous contaminants remain, most requiring very specific remediation not easy or safe for a typical cleaning crew to complete. SERVPRO offers clients discrete, certified trauma and crime scene cleanup.
 
You already experienced considerable trauma during illegal activity playing out in your home. The authorities completed their investigation, and you now need fast and efficient crime scene cleanup in your home. In addition to bodily fluids, a broad variety of evidence-gathering and preserving chemicals and substances contaminate the place you used to treasure as a haven and refuge from the world. Put your trust in our well-trained team of specialized cleaning experts. We value the confidence you feel for our services and wish to restore both your home and your sense of peace.
 
If a standoff occurred inside your house, the smell and physical residue of tear gas, pepper spray, or other topical irritants fills the air and the area. You need the skills of our crime scene team to remove the substances, and especially the smells, from your home. Because of the chemicals utilized, there is a special methodology followed to clear them away completely. Likewise, if investigators lifted prints or other physical evidence from the surfaces inside your house, SERVPRO staff know how to make these powders, liquids, or gels disappear for good.
 
The debris remaining after the production or distribution of illegal drugs or other substances are tricky to contain and remove. We make certain our staff receive up to date schooling on the proper methods recommended by federal and state agencies to remove all dangerous and volatile materials.
 
If the worst happened and death or serious accident occurred within the walls of your home, SERVPRO technicians follow OSHA and EPA directives to ensure that human or other tissues, blood, or bodily fluids are managed safely. Removal without any trace is the goal, permitting you to move forward in a safe and protected manner.
 
For professional, compassionate, and comprehensive crime scene cleanup services contact SERVPRO of North Prince William. One simple call to (703)368-4399 puts you on the road to recovery from a life-altering experience.

Contents Cleaning

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

We know what it’s like to lose your belongings to a fire. That’s why we offer content cleaning to help you recover from the effects of fire damage. If your clothes have been damaged in a fire, our professional team will spot and clean them for you. We can also advise you on what process is best for any specific piece of clothing or item.

Content cleaning is a service that can be done by professionals if your clothing has been damaged in a fire.

Although it may seem like a daunting task, each piece of content will be pre-spotted, pre-tested and thoroughly cleaned. Contents with smoke residue may need an additional ultrasonic cleaning process.

If you're feeling overwhelmed about how to proceed with cleaning your clothing after this unfortunate event, we've got you covered! We can help you get back on track and make sure that your items are restored to their former glory so that they look as good as new!

Each piece of content will be pre-spotted, pre-tested and thoroughly cleaned.

The first step in the cleaning process is pre-spotting, which involves a thorough inspection of each item to determine what damage it has sustained and whether it can be cleaned. If an item cannot be cleaned, we will discard it. Next, we thoroughly clean all items (including furniture) using our proprietary process that removes smoke residue while also preventing any new soiling from occurring.

Contents with smoke residue may need an additional ultrasonic cleaning process.

The contents of your items can be affected by smoke residue. Smoke can make an item smell like burnt or wet wood, or it may leave behind a yellow discoloration that won't wash out. Smoke residue can also cause the ink on labels to fade, which will make them illegible.

Smoke residue may need to be removed before you clean the item using other methods such as steaming and dry cleaning (using chemicals). Ultrasonic cleaning is one effective way of removing dirt and grime from objects but not all materials are suitable for this type of cleaning process so check with your dry cleaner first!

We'll help you get your belongings back in good shape after fire damage. 

We're here to help with our expert post-fire cleaning services. Whether you need help getting rid of the smell or repairing some of the physical damage left behind by fire, we'll fix everything up, so it looks like nothing ever happened. We'll even make sure all those pesky stains disappear from your carpeting so no one will ever suspect anything was amiss.

Our experience with these situations makes us uniquely qualified to handle any situation involving smoke or water damage. So, whether you've been through a kitchen fire recently or have just gotten back from vacation (and found out about another family member's house burning down), let us do what we do best: restore order after chaos has taken over!

We are proud to say that we offer some of the best prices in town for a wide range of services. We’re confident that our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee will give you peace of mind when dealing with your fire-damaged items, and we can help you get back on your feet quickly after an emergency like this!

What To Do When You Smell Natural Gas

1/16/2023 (Permalink)

If your home in North Prince William County, VA uses gas for heating or cooking, it's important to know what to do in the event of a gas leak. On its own, natural gas doesn't have a smell, so providers put additives in that give it a scent in order to protect consumers. If you smell gas inside or outside of your home or hear a hissing sound, there are steps to take to ensure that you protect yourself and your family.

1. Don't Touch the Lights
When you first smell gas and you're not sure what's happening, the first step is to NOT turn on the lights. If there is a leak, turning a light switch on or off can trigger a reaction that causes a gas fire. Similarly, don't use matches, start or stop appliances, or use the phone.

2. Check the Stove
Check the stove to make sure that all the burners are off. One common reason that you smell gas but a gas explosion isn't imminent is that a burner was accidentally bumped on.

3. Open the Windows
If you can verify that the natural gas smell was caused by an improperly closed burner, it's safe to open the windows and doors to air out the house. However, if you've checked the stove and no burners are on, it's important to leave the windows closed to prevent oxygen from getting to a flame.

4. Leave the House
When the stove is ruled out as the cause of the smell, it's time to leave the house — and quickly. Worry only about getting the people in your home out; don't try to take extra items with you. A potential gas fire is an emergency!

5. Call for Help
Once you're safely away from the house (at least across the street), call 911 for help. In the event of an explosion that causes damage, an emergency restoration team will work with you to get you back in your home quickly.
A gas fire is a common way that homes sustain damage. If you think you smell gas, protect your family by leaving the house and calling for help.

How Do Hygienists Check for Mold?

1/16/2023 (Permalink)

Sampling Techniques Professionals Use

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 North Prince William, VA he or she should hire a certified hygienist.

Why It's Important to Pick a Qualified Preferred Vendor

1/13/2023 (Permalink)

A client calls your office to report that they have an insurance claim in North Prince William, VA. Like most business owners who are facing a disaster, they're anxious to get the cleanup and restoration process completed as quickly as possible. As an insurance agent, you have a responsibility to help your client get the help they need while keeping costs down for your company. Luckily, you have a list of preferred vendors, and you inform your client that the names on that list are truly the best. Here's why it matters to you and to your client that they choose a preferred vendor.

1. Qualified
To participate in the vendor program, a company has to be able to verify that they are qualified to complete the services that they say they provide. Vendors who value their business will keep good records of certifications, but it's even more important to know that the staff receives regular continuing education in order to stay on top of the latest best practices. A company like SERVPRO has a set of twenty-one guidelines that employees of each franchise must meet in order to remain on preferred vendor lists.

2. Compliant
In addition to qualified staff, a preferred vendor who wants to be recommended by an insurance agent must maintain compliance with all industry standards. This means that the tools they use, the standards to which they complete jobs, and the way they maintain project paperwork all have to be above board. The easiest way to ensure that these things happen is to work with a company that has consistent expectations for every franchisee.

3. Professional
The last thing that your client wants to deal with is a vendor who doesn't keep in touch. SERVPRO has the reach to ensure that calls are answered and the resources to keep every project organized. As an insurance agent, you want your clients to be confident when they choose a restoration company after a disaster. Encourage your clients to use the preferred vendor list so that they can be confident that they are working with the best in the business.

Water Damage Causes

1/13/2023 (Permalink)

Water Damage can show up in many different ways. There are few things as structurally damaging as a flood. And, unfortunately, even homes which are not located in ‘at risk’ areas can find themselves dealing with far too much water. If plumbing fixtures burst, the results are much the same, so steps must be taken to protect a home from plumbing failures.

We tend to take the plumbing system which moves water inside our homes for granted. However, when it breaks down, action must quickly be taken. The best solution is always prevention. Inspection and maintenance are the keys to troubleshooting and identifying problems, as well as understanding what is required to fix them. SERVPRO offers some information and suggestions to help you prevent water damage to your home.

Top Tips for Avoiding Leaks & Water Damage
Clean Gutters Regularly: it is not enough to just install high-quality gutters, they must remain free of leaves and debris. Rainwater collected in the gutters needs an unobstructed passage to reach the downspouts. It must then flow at least five feet away from the foundation and exterior walls freely.

Install a Sump Pump: if you live in a very wet or low-lying area. It is surprisingly easy for basements to become flooded during heavy rains or appliance failures. As the unwanted water collects in the sump pump catchment, it can be drained to the exterior of the building.

Appliance Malfunctions: electrical appliances like dishwashers and washing machines are supplied with water under pressure. Frequently the fittings will corrode over time initiating a pinhole leak that eventually ruptures the supply line. Plastic drainage hoses will dry out and crack after extended use. Replace them with reinforced hoses before this happens.

Invest In Shut Off Switches: if you do use your dishwasher and washing machine very frequently, it's practical to invest in a water ‘shut off’ switch. If a washing machine cannot be instantly turned off during an emergency, a shut off switch can be used to override its settings and shut everything down immediately. These switches can be applied to single appliances or installed in the main water supply line.

Treat Pipes Carefully: burst pipes are the most common cause of household floods. This means no pouring oil or grease down a drain, leaving central heating on the lowest setting when away from home in the winter, and keeping a close eye on water pressure. If the water pressure in your home is above the advised psi for your area of Beverly Hills, seek advice from your water utility.

Finding Reliable Water Restoration Services

If you have found a leak or identified the presence of water damage in you property, you need to take steps to repair it as soon as possible. Easy enough. Just pick up the phone and call the experts at SERVPRO. The skilled IICRC-certified technicians will remove the water using industrial grade equipment, dry out water damaged items and restore your home to its preloss state "Like it never even happened."

Highly-Trained Water Restoration Specialists

As leaders in the water damage industry, SERVPRO of North Prince William has advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. Call us for fire or water damage emergencies in North Prince William, VA for 24/7 service. (703)368-4399

Commercial Cleanings For Your Business

11/14/2022 (Permalink)

One Chance to Make a Great First Impression

We had clients coming into town who had never visited our offices before. Although our furniture, floors, and carpets were only a couple of years old, they looked kind of dull and no longer smelled fresh and clean.

Our building manager referred us to SERVPRO of North Prince William. They sent out a team that cleaned our offices from top to bottom. They cleaned the light fixtures, millwork, blinds, drapes, upholstery, carpets, floor mats, floors, bathrooms, and breakroom. By the time they completed the work, our offices looked sparkling clean and smelled wonderful.

Commercial Cleaning Services

• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Air Ducts and Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)
• Vandalism
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene

We have extensive experience cleaning all kinds of business settings and buildings:

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing and Industrial
• Government/Military

Local businesses can rely on SERVPRO of North Prince William to clean and renew tired and dingy-looking offices and workspaces.

Renters Can Expect From Their Coverage...

11/14/2022 (Permalink)

Many tenants buy renter’s insurance to cover the cost of replacing their personal belongings if they are damaged or destroyed by an accident in the building where they live. Your coverage, however, may pay for much more than just item replacement. It’s important to talk to your agent, so you know just how much you can expect your insurance company to pay if the place you are renting in Reston or Herndon catches fire.

Belongings

Part of the fire restoration process is determining which items can be cleaned and saved and which must be thrown away. Your insurance coverage should pay for:

•  Assessment
•  Cleaning costs
•  Replacement costs

Make sure your policy states that it pays replacement cost rather than the actual cash value of your items. The purpose of insurance is to make you whole again, and replacing lost belongings is a good start.

Liability

If the fire was caused by your negligence, you might be liable for any damages you cause to other people or to the structure itself. Your renter’s insurance probably has a clause that protects you from legal costs. Your policy may cover damage to your neighbor’s belongings or the property itself, as well as cover medical bills of anyone injured in the fire if you bear some responsibility for its starting.

Shelter

Fire restoration experts may work quickly, but there are probably going to be some nights that you are unable to stay in your rented space. Finding a temporary place to live can be expensive. Your insurance policy is likely to cover this as well. You can include your shelter needs as part of the fallout of the fire damage to your home when you file your claim.

Your renter’s insurance does cover the loss of your belongings, but it can also cover other losses. Your insurance agent can help you build a solid policy that takes all potential expenses of the fire into consideration.

How Can I Protect My Business?

11/11/2022 (Permalink)

What is the Emergency Ready Program?

• As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest research.
• The overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-Planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.
• SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your 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 & fire damage can affect your business.

As a business owner you ALWAYS want to make sure you have an action plan if ever an emergency occurs. If there was a flood, major leak, tornado you would want contacts and action plan close by.

- A no cost assessment of your facility.
(This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost)

- A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an Emergency. (It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed)

- A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
(This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action)

- Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. (You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by)

- Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. (This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money)

- Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. (Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens.")

SERVPRO of North Prince William wants to ease that stress and we realize that you might not think about the unexpected things that may happen, therefore we have implemented the ERP Program.

Get your ducts in a row…

11/11/2022 (Permalink)

When was the last time you had your air ducts or HVAC system checked or cleaned? SERVPRO of North Prince William is the right company for you. We will inspect your HVAC system & ductwork to make any recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns.

Ventilation systems can often be the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality because many people allow HVAC systems to operate for sometime without much attention or upkeep. Keeping your HVAC system and duct work clean can extend the life of your equipment, which could save you money and provide better air quality. Studies have shown that we spend 60-90% of our lives indoors, so all of that dirt and debris is circulating in the air you breathe.

Cleaning your air ducts help eliminate these items from the air you breathe:

• Dirt, dust & debris.
• Mold or mildew
• Pollen
• Pet hair & dander

Call us today! 

(703)368-4399

Have you stopped to consider whether or not your business is truly ready for whatever happens?

11/9/2022 (Permalink)

Have you stopped to consider whether or not your business is truly ready for whatever happens?

Sure, you may have your shelves stocked and your labels printed with restock orders on the way. But do you have a plan in place for when the unexpected happens and you’re stuck with picking up the pieces?

You may know SERVPRO of North Prince William County as your go-to disaster restoration company, which we are. But do you also know that we specialize in helping your business get disaster ready as well? One of the ways we enjoy serving our community partners is by creating Emergency Ready Profiles, or ERPs, for their commercial properties. 

When our dedicated, local SERVPRO Representatives meet with local business owners and facility managers, we gather important materials such as building information, utility shut off locations, and key contacts. Not only is this information important as it pertains to the daily tasks of a facility manager, but it’s also pertinent in the event of an emergency or disaster when time is of the essence. 

One of the key benefits in setting up an ERP with our team is having all of your essential property information in one place. In addition to keeping such relevant information organized, your local SERVPRO of North Prince William representative will contact you periodically to update any changes to your profile. 

Becoming disaster-ready is a process and our team is eager to help you get started! To set up your free Emergency Ready Profile, call our office today to speak to one of our representatives and ensure that your business is "Ready for whatever happens", just like SERVPRO. 

How to locate your home water shut off valve..

11/9/2022 (Permalink)

Do you know where the shutoff is located and could you locate it in the case of an emergency? If not, that’s okay. Many people do not know where to locate their water and gas shut offs.

If the leak is from a sink or a toilet, it is easy to turn off the water for that line by turning the valve that is located beneath or beside the fixture.

Typically, these shut offs lie on the exterior of the home around the perimeter of the building. Once you have found the shut off, make sure that all members of your household know where it is. The quicker you are able to turn off the water, the less damage is caused. 

What if you're not sure where the leak is coming from? It could be a pipe behind your wall, under your home, or somewhere that is hard to locate. In this case, you should turn off the water to the whole house. This means locating the water main shutoff. 

Next steps? Call SERVPRO of North Prince William

If you experience water damage in your home, whether from a busted pipe, leaky roof, or natural occurrence, call SERVPRO of North Prince William at 703-368-4399.

We are here to help 24/7.

What Kind of Smoke Detector Do You Need?

11/9/2022 (Permalink)

There are 3 types of smoke detector alarms on the market today. They are Ionization, Photoelectric and Combination.

An ionization smoke alarm contains a small amount of radioactive material. The radiation passes through an ionization chamber which is an air-filled space between two electrodes and permits a small, constant current between the electrodes. 

When smoke that enters the chamber absorbs the alpha particles, it reduces the ionization and interrupts the current, setting off the alarm. 

This type of alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires.

The Photoelectric smoke alarms operate using a light source.

A light beam collimating system and a photoelectric sensor. When smoke enters the optical chamber and crosses the path of the light beam, some light is scattered by the smoke particles, directing it at the sensor and thus activating the alarm. 

This type of alarm is generally more responsive to fires that begin with a long period of smoldering.

Combination smoke alarms feature both ionization and photoelectric technologies. Ionization smoke alarms respond faster to high energy fires, whereas photoelectric detectors respond better to low energy smoldering fires. The best overall protection is provided by using combination smoke alarms.

IICRC

11/7/2022 (Permalink)

IICRC Sets A High Standard For Inspection, Cleaning And Restoration

Nearly everyone respects certification. It gives businesses and trained professionals credibility in the marketplace. SERVPRO of North Prince William requires all of their Crew Chiefs and Technicians to have up to date IICRC credits. It gives customers confidence in the qualifications of those holding the certification. IICRC is the gold standard for certification in the inspection, cleaning and restoration industry. The Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification is more than just another credential. People and businesses earn and keep this certification through:

• Education
• Initial certification
• Continuing education
• Membership

Comprehensive Certification Offers Clients Peace of Mind

Comprehensive certification is not a single certificate. There are at least thirty different categories of inspection, cleaning and restoration certificates available. The institute provides training and testing for each one. It awards students a mitigation certificate upon successful completion of each category.

An IICRC certified provider employs professionals with one or more mitigation certificate. Each inspection, cleaning or restoration job requires a combination of certified skills. The business assembles a team with the appropriate skills and dispatches them to the job. The mix of professionals on the job changes as the list of required skills changes.

Happy Clients Are the Foundation of a Certified Provider

A provider may survive with an occasional unhappy customer. A provider cannot survive without its certification. A certified provider holds itself and its employees to a high standard. This high standard is what certification is all about. Failing to meet this standard jeopardizes the value of the certification for others. This failure can lead to discipline and, eventually, revocation of the certificate. Without that, the provider is out of business.

The same level of standards applies to individuals and their certifications. Revocation is a real possibility if there are problems. It makes attaining employment in the inspection, cleaning and restoration industry difficult.

Certification Is a Key to Provider Selection

Find an inspection, cleaning and restoration provider with an IICRC, and you are off to a good start. Next, you want one located nearby. Confidence in the provider will give you confidence in the quality of the job once it is complete. Call your local SERVPRO of North Prince William County (703)368-4399 to have a certified technician assess whatever remediation related problem you may be having.

Do You Know How To Respond To A House Fire?

11/7/2022 (Permalink)

A fire can start from any number of sources: a faulty wire, an overloaded outlet, a kitchen accident, or a bonfire left unattended. If your home catches fire it’s important to know how to respond quickly and effectively.

Stay Safe!

If a Fire Starts, Here Is What You Need To Know:

The first line of defense against a fire is to know how to safely use the right fire extinguisher for a house fire. This simple step can save lives and tens of thousands in property damages. If the fire loses control, immediately get out and stay out, then call 9-1-1. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.

If your clothing catches on fire, remember the old phrase: Stop, Drop, and Roll.

If you live in a building with elevators, it is important to use the stairs in case of a fire. A fire can short out the elevator electrical system, and the shaft can act like a chimney and rapidly fill up with dangerous smoke.

Understanding how to use doors to your advantage during a fire can mean the difference between life and death. If the door or handle is warm, do not open it. If you can't escape through the primary way, find another way out. Do not open any doors that are warm to the touch.

If some, heat, or flames block your exits, close any doors around you, place a wet towel under the doors and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Tell them exactly where you are so they know where to find you.

If you're near a window that you can't use as an escape, open it and wave a brightly colored cloth or use your phone flashlight to signal for help.

What To Do After a Fire:

After a fire, it is important to contact a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of North Prince William. We have the training, experience, and equipment to properly restore your home - "Like it never even happened."

If you try to clean up the fire damage yourself, you could end up making the situation worse both in your home and with your insurance company's process.

Call us today! (703)368-4399

Electric Heater Safety

11/3/2022 (Permalink)

As winter begins to hit and temperature begins to drop, you may choose to buy a space heater for warm up your home, apartment, or work space. Space heaters are a good alternative if you do not want to turn up your thermostat to heat up your home. However, space heaters, if not used correctly, can cause fire damage to your property. Here are some tips that you can use to prevent any disaster caused by a space heater:

• Leave the heater on level floor, don’t place on carpet - it can overheat and start a fire.
• Do not use in bathroom, unless it is designed for it - moisture can damage the heater.
• Keep three feet away from flammable materials and out of the way of children and pets.
• Should always be plugged directly into wall outlet, don’t use with extension cord because it can cause overheating.
• Don’t leave heater unattended, make sure to unplug when not in use.
• Install smoke alarms on every floor.

If you run into any issues with fire damage, call SERVPRO of North Prince William County. 

6 Mold Facts

11/3/2022 (Permalink)

We all have heard about mold and how there are over 100,000 different types but here are some interesting things you might have missed.

1. Mold has been proven to help gardens grow.
2. Mold spreads quickly on walls and other surfaces because it requires growth to survive.
3. Bleach does not kill mold it just changes the color of it.
4. Mold tends to grow more in dark areas
5. Because mold looks a lot like mildew it’s often confused with it.
6. Mold can grow in dirty air ducts too, causing mold to circulate around.

To stay safe and healthy from mold check your home regularly. Make sure to check in your basement, ceilings, tiles, under carpets and showers. If mold is found have a professional check it out. SERVPRO of North Prince William County will come and restore your affected property. 

3 Tips to Help You Prevent Water Damage...

9/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Prince William County has the experience, expertise and proper training to restore your home or business quickly and properly. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment to find the water and remove it as quickly as possible. Our Technicians will monitor and document the drying process to ensure your property is back to “Like it never even happened."

Water Damage can be a costly and devastating event. We have often found that careful routine maintenance can lower the risks and costs of water damage restoration. The restoration process can be stress, but by following some simple home maintenance tips, you can prevent flooding from structural issues.

If you or someone you know needs restoration services; Save our number for the future or call today for a rapid response (703)368-4399.

1) Assess your water heater

Water heater issues are common when it comes to our emergency calls in North Prince William County and surrounding areas With regular routine maintenance, you can prevent this from happening. Make sure the water heater’s thermostat is regulating the temperature properly to prevent any pressure buildup.

Tip: If you notice an odd taste or odor in the water from your water heater, it may have rust or sediment buildup inside. Also, if your water starts to make strange noises it may require you needing an inspection or replacement.

2) Appliance hoses and connectors

Always check for cracks, kinks, unraveling, wear, or corrosion on hoses & connectors. If you find any damage to these replace them immediately. DO NOT WAIT! Most manufacturers and plumbers also recommend replacing water hoses/connectors every 3-5 years.

3) Replace old caulking in your windows and doors

Caulking your windows can not only stop water leaks, but also help to keep out drafts. It is a simple process that you can do yourself. Most window caulks should last about five years, but you should always inspect your caulking at least every six months to a year; and replace it if you notice any cracks developing.

Tip: You should also check your exterior door flashings for holes or rust that can allow water entry.

Certified: SERVPRO of North Prince William County

9/23/2022 (Permalink)

We offer a wide amount of cleaning services to our North Prince William County residents. We take pride in ourselves on being the go-to company for your restoration needs. 

SERVPRO Cleaning Services

1. Air Ducts & HVAC
2. Trauma and Crime Scene
3. Biohazard and Sewage
4. Odor Removal and Deodorization
5. Vandalism
6. Ceilings, Walls and Floors
7. Carpet and Upholstery
8. Drapes and Blinds
9. Post Construction

You name it SERVPRO provides the service for you “Like it never even happened.”

Trust us when we say that we care about the commitment and security of your employees, customers and community. 

We serve North Prince William County and the surrounding cities. Hiring a professional service means you are getting experience, expertise and professional cleaning tools that can clean your space to the highest standard. It might catch you off guard on the number of different services we offer.

Heavy Rain Leads to Flooding...

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

Our team here in North Prince William County restores storm damage throughout the year.

Although, we don’t experience many Tornadoes in our county here are the National Weather Service alert definitions for tornadoes and high winds:

Tornado Watch: This means a tornado is possible.

Tornado Warning: This means a tornado is already occurring or will occur soon.
Go to a safe place immediately.

High Wind Watch: Be Prepared! Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose items and adjust plans as necessary, so you’re not caught outside.

Wind Advisory: Take Action! A thunderstorm is happening or is imminent in the warning area. Severe thunderstorms have wind gusts of 58 miles per hour and or hail one inch or larger. Seek shelter inside a sturdy building.

Preparing for High Winds

• Remove any dead trees or overhanging branches near structures
• Remove loose objects outdoors, on patios, roofs, or balconies that could blow away.
• Shutter windows securely and brace outside doors
• Bring in unsecured objects from outside and secure things that could blow away and cause damage or injury

Give us a call!

When your home or commercial business has storm damage, you can trust our local team here in North Prince William County to restore the damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 703-368-4399.

Lightning Safety Tips…

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

Even though your home is a safe shelter during a lightning storm, you may still be at risk.

Here are some indoor safety tips per CDC:

• Avoid Water –Do not bathe, shower or wash dishes. Lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing.
• Avoid Electronic Equipment –Do not use your computers, laptops, game systems, washers, dryers, stoves or anything connected to an electrical outlet. Lightning can travel through electrical systems, and any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.
• Avoid Corded Phones – Corded phones are not safe to use during a thunderstorm. However, it is safe to use cordless or cellular phones during a storm.
• Avoid windows, doors, porches and concrete –Do not lie on concrete floors during a thunderstorm or lean on concrete walls. As mentioned lightening can travel through any metal wires or bars.

If you have experienced any damages interior or exterior give us a call we are always here to help 703-368-4399!

Do You Know How To Put A Grease Fire Out...?

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

Grease fires happen when oil, grease or fat get hot enough to ignite. Grease fires can be extremely dangerous because grease is a liquid that can easily spread.  If you suspect the fire is larger than you can handle contact 9-1-1.

NEVER THROW WATER ONTO A GREASE FIRE THIS CAN CAUSE THE FIRE TO WORSEN.

Steps to take if this happens to you:

• Turn off the Stove – If you’re cooking and a pot catches fire, the first step is to remove the heat source. Turn off the burner or oven. (If your grease fire is in the oven, leave the door closed.) A fire can reignite if it’s not smothered.
• Cover with a Lid – Using a metal pan lid or baking sheet can be another to way to cut off oxygen to a grease fire. Do not use any type of Kitchen fabric the material may catch fire.ALWAYS avoid using glass or ceramic pan lids these materials can shatter.
• Products to use –Baking soda or salt can help to extinguish the fire; however this would require smothering the fire with salt or baking soda to fully extinguish the fire. Sometimes it’s easier and more effective to quickly find a lid & cover the fire.*DO NOT USE FLOUR OR BAKING POWDER as these products are highly combustible and can explode.*
• It is always recommended to have a fire extinguisher close by.

What Is A Dehumidifier...? Do You Know...?

9/21/2022 (Permalink)

A dehumidifier is specialty equipment that lowers and retains the intensity of humidity in the air, generally for health or convenience purposes. SERVPRO uses dehumidifiers to quickly dry a wet structure. Our high quality equipment can minimize stinky odors and reduce the possibility of microbial growth by removing moisture from the atmosphere.

Dehumidifier’s Will Stop Mold Growth?

If you have a mold issue in your commercial or home, don’t delay. Mold will grow as soon as it has a supply of water. When a room’s relative humidity rises, the mold will begin to show dark black spots on walls, fabrics, and much more. It is very common for rooms that do not have quality ventilation to have mold issues. Common places for mold to develop are inside an attic, crawl spaces, and in the bathroom.

Placing a dehumidifier in the common places will help stop the growth of mold. Make sure that you work on finding the cause of the growth. The source of the moisture should not be neglected; neglecting may cause mold growth to occur in the future.

How Long Do You Need To Place A Dehumidifier On-Site Due To Water Damage?

It’s difficult to tell how long water damage equipment will remain in your commercial or home. The time can vary based on the level of water damage, the region’s extend, and the kind of dehumidifier. 

Here at SERVPRO, our goal is to have your property dry within three to five days. The dry time can vary on the size of the water loss, the category, and the number of contents in the property. In some cases, we have had to leave dehumidifier’s on-site for prolonged periods due to microbial growth.

When it comes to any restoration job, it is important to get in touch with SERVPRO of North Prince William County. We will provide the appropriate specialists to help find a prompt solution. Our restoration experts perform standard procedures taught by the IICRC. 

Common Cause of Water Damage...

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage is a common problem that many homeowners in North Prince William County face each year. These problems can cause thousands of dollars in damages, and even force the family out of the house temporarily. The worst thing about water damage is that it can happen at ANY time.

When water creeps into areas of your property where it shouldn’t be, your floor could warp. Water damage also discolors walls and ceilings. Moisture can cause microbial growth if the damages are not immediately addressed.

List of Common Causes:

1. Severe Weather (Thunderstorms)
2. Clogged gutters
3. Leaking / Burst pipes
4. Washing Machine / Water Supply Line
5. Blocked drains
6. Water Heater
7. Toilet leaks

If you discover water damage inside your home, call SERVPRO of North Prince William County our highly trained and certified professionals are here to handle any disaster you find yourself in (703)368-4399.

What Category & Class Is Your Water Loss?

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

The category and class of your water loss refers to the level of contamination in the water, considering its originated source. ALL water damages require restoration, but some cases are a little less severe.

If this happens to you whether it’s your home or commercial building - Contact SERVPRO of North Prince William County 703-368-4399.

3 Basic Categories of Water:

Category 1 – Originates from a sanitary source. It may not always remain clean after it comes into contact with other surfaces or materials.

Example: Water supply lines, toilet tank, or faucet.

Category 2 – Significant contamination and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed by humans.

Example: Washing machine overflow, toilet overflow, or a dishwasher overflow. These situations can quickly escalate into a Category 3 if not properly taken care of.

Category 3 – Grossly unsanitary contaminated water. This contains human and/or animal waste, along with other contaminants that could cause severe illness or even death if ingested.

Example: Sewer backup, flooding from rivers or streams, standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.  

4 Basic Class of Water:

Class 1 – It affects only part of a room or area, or larger areas containing materials that have absorbed minimal moisture.

Class 2 – The entire room or area is affected. Water has gone up less than 24 inches. There is moisture reading in structural materials like plywood, particle board, structural wood and concrete.

Class 3 – Water may have come from overhead. The ceilings, walls, carpet, insulation and subfloor are saturated in the entire area.

Class 4 – Wet materials with very low permeance like hardwood, plaster and concrete have deep pockets on saturation. They may need to be treated with low levels of humidity and often take longer drying times and more specialized methods.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County is Available Around the Clock!

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage is something that is never an enjoyable experience. It can be extra difficult to experience. Many people put off planning for water damage as it seems like something that may never occur, but it is more frequent than most anticipate. Approximately one in 50 homeowners file a water damage claim each year in the United States, but for those who plan ahead, the damages tend to be much less severe.

Do you know what to do in the event of a Burst Pipe?

• Shut off your water main – When a pipe bursts and is left unattended, it will continue to pour into the area until it is taken care of. It is very important to be able to find and switch off your home’s water main as this can prevent water from fully affecting the area.
• Shut off your electricity –Keeping water away from electricity is KEY, so it is safe to do so, turn off your home’s power from your breaker box to prevent the soaked area from becoming a shock or fire hazard.
• Contact your local restoration company – One of the things you can do to plan for water damage in advance is decide which Company you will be working with. This way, you can contact them immediately when you discover water damage to have the restoration started right away.
• Record of the damages –If you are filing an insurance claim, it is important to keep your own thorough records of all the damages via photos, videos and lists. Even if you can’t file a claim, these can come in handy as to work to recover.
• Contact your Insurance Company –While all insurance policies are different, contacting yours is the best way to determine if you are eligible to file and confirm your policy coverage.

If you have water damage in your home or commercial building due to a burst pipe or another cause, you can count on us for your needs.

Contact SERVPRO of North Prince William County at anytime to learn more about our services!

(703)368-4399

30 Seconds Is ALL It Takes!!!

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know the most common cause of a grease fire is cooking food unattended? Two of every five homes start in the kitchen while food is cooking. It takes less than 30 seconds for a fire to start, so never leave your pan unattended.

Oils and grease are highly flammable, which means they can catch fire easily. Studies have shown that different oils burn at different temperatures. Any oil you purchase from a grocery store is capable of catching on fire.

The most flammable cooking oil has to be coconut oil it has a smoke point of 385°F or 196°C and a flash point of 563°F or 295°C. It may catch fire easily than other oils in comparison. If you catch your cooking oil boiling and smoking this is a sign to turn down the heat.

Oils have a smoke point – What does “Smoke Point Mean?”

The “smoke point” is also referred to as the burning point of cooking oils & fats. When an oil or fat is heated past its “smoke point” it gives off bluish smoke.

The most recommended cooking oils to use that tend to have a higher smoke point making them suitable for frying – Peanut oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, safflower oil & corn oil.

SERVPRO of North Prince William keeps your safety a priority. IF there is a fire in your home, call SERVPRO of North Prince William (703)368-4399!

Can You Trust SERVPRO of North Prince William County?

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Prince William County is here to provide your specialty services! Give us a call for more information at (703)368-4399.

At SERVPRO, we take pride in sending highly trained Technicians to service North Prince William County locations. Each Technician of ours is IICRC Certified and is required to maintain that certification. Here at SERVPRO our Technicians are trained to look for damages that may not be visible to the eye and utilize the latest method & equipment to locate damages.

IICRC Training & Certification

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

SERVPRO’S Technicians Arrive Quickly to Help Prevent Additional Damages

Whether you have an overflow in an upstairs Bathroom or water damage caused by a recent storm, SERVPRO of North Prince William County can provide you with services to recover quickly and efficiently.

You only have to make one call! SERVPRO of North Prince William County offers full service solutions, making your restoration experience as stress free as possible.

If you are looking to receive quality results give us a call!

(703)368-4399

What to do before a thunderstorm?

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can be dangerous and not taken for granted. Every thunderstorm produces lightning and other hazardous weather conditions, which can include tornadoes, strong winds, hail, and flash flooding.

In Gainesville, VA we tend to get a mix of heavy rain and dry thunderstorms. Below are great tips from the READY to help prepare you for what to do before, during, and after a thunderstorm.

What to do before a thunderstorm

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Postpone outdoor activities.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard-top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.
• Lightning Risk Reduction When Outdoors

SERVPRO of North Prince William county urges each and every one of you to PREPARE before a thunderstorm comes. And whenever they do come, SERVPRO of North Prince William county will be here to help.

Our team is ready to handle your storm damage

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

Storm season is approaching and our teams have stayed active in serving our communities following the aftermath of heavy winds, rain, and hail. 

While the meteorologists can predict what will be the cause of storms, it’s hard to determine what the effects will look like once the winds have settled, the sirens go silent, and all that’s left is the debris and damage.

At SERVPRO of North Prince William county, we’ve witnessed firsthand the magnitude of damage these storms have caused. They wreak havoc on homes, businesses, schools, hospitals, and whatever structure stands in their way. 

Though we have absolutely no control over when, where, or what will be affected, we stand firm in the fact that we are “Ready for whatever happens” whenever it happens. 

Our Disaster Response Team is complete with experienced project managers that travel at a moment’s notice to site locations of large-scale storm events, making us “Faster to any size disaster.” Backed by one of the largest Emergency Response Teams in the country, we are uniquely equipped and positioned to take on even the largest restoration project; whether in Central Alabama or beyond. Our fleet of cars, trucks, vans, are fully stocked with the resources needed to respond to disasters of any scale, anywhere. 

Whatever this storm season looks like, it is no match for the force that is our Disaster Recovery Team. 

What to do before a thunderstorm?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can be dangerous and not taken for granted. Every thunderstorm produces lightning and other hazardous weather conditions, which can include tornadoes, strong winds, hail, and flash flooding.

In North Prince William county, VA we tend to get a mix of heavy rain and dry thunderstorms. Below are great tips from the READY to help prepare you for what to do before, during, and after a thunderstorm.

What to do before a thunderstorm

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Postpone outdoor activities.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard-top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.
• Lightning Risk Reduction When Outdoors

SERVPRO of North Prince William county urges each and every one of you to PREPARE before a thunderstorm comes. And whenever they do come, SERVPRO of North Prince William county will be here to help.

Flood facts!

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States.

There is always potential for flood damage no matter where you live. According to the American Red Cross floods cause more damage in the United States every year than any other weather related disaster. The American Red Cross offers these flood safety tips:

-Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

-If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are riding rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

-Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. 

If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of North Prince William county.  Even minor floods have potential to cause major damage. We are faster to ANY size disaster. Let us help you get your life back in order. 

Commercial Cleaning for businesses

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

One Chance to Make a Great First Impression

We had clients coming into town who had never visited our offices before. Although our furniture, floors, and carpets were only a couple of years old, they looked kind of dull and no longer smelled fresh and clean.

Our building manager referred us to SERVPRO of North Prince William county. They sent out a team that cleaned our offices from top to bottom. They cleaned the light fixtures, millwork, blinds, drapes, upholstery, carpets, floor mats, floors, bathrooms, and breakroom. By the time they completed the work, our offices looked sparkling clean and smelled wonderful.

Commercial Cleaning Services

• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Air Ducts and Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)
• Vandalism
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene

We have extensive experience cleaning all kinds of business settings and buildings:

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing and Industrial
• Government/Military

Local businesses can rely on SERVPRO of North Prince William county to clean and renew tired and dingy-looking offices and workspaces.

What to do after a fire

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Have you had a fire in your home?  "Devastating" is an understatement when experiencing the chaos of a fire in your home. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean-up can be, too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority!  The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage. These can lead to corrosion, unpleasant odor, and discoloration. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem.    Take immediate action by following these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire:  1. Contact your insurance company. 2. Contact your local fire restoration company. 3. Take photographs of the damage. 4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company. 5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed. 6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property. While a house fire is a difficult experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So remember these steps for the next time you or someone you know is handling the aftermath of a house fire, and call SERVPRO® of North Prince William county

Common causes of fire

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Do you and your family know the common causes of fires?

 Here are a few common causes to look out for: 

• Cooking
• 48% of all fires are caused by cooking.
• Remember to turn off source of heat.
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand.
• Heating
• Do not put anything close to the heater.
• Follow guidelines on how the heater can run.
• Electrical Fires
• Make sure fireplaces and lighting are up to code and are safe.
• Ensure alarms are replaced
• Smoking
• Never lay cigarettes, cigars, etc., down and forget about them.
• Smoke outside to avoid any potential fires related to dropping or forgetting about the item.
• Candles
• Never leave a candle unattended.
• All materials should remain 12 inches away from all candles.

These are just some tips in order to prevent fires. SERVPRO of North Prince William county keeps your safety a priority and we hope you and family values that as well. Other things to have in place is a route for you and your family if there ever was a fire. Also, everyone in your family should know the route and plan in place. IF there is a fire in your home, call SERVPRO of North Prince William county.

What is A Commercial UV Light Sanitizer System?

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Many commercial properties have recently started using commercial UV light sanitizer systems.

During the coronavirus pandemic, ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection has received a lot of coverage. The essential advantage is its ability to destroy pathogens such as viruses and bacteria.

UV (ultraviolet) light is a form of electromagnetic radiation. It is more energetic than radio waves or electrical light but less vigorous than X-rays or gamma rays. UV light may be emitted by either natural sunlight or human-made sources such as tanning beds.

The most efficient UV light for destroying COVID-19 is to use germicidal UVC light, also known as Ultraviolet Germicidal Radiation (UVGI) technology. While ultraviolet light has newly gained momentum in the national discourse as a result of the pandemic, it's been used in hospitals and water systems for years to kill viruses, bacteria, fungus, spores, as well as other pathogenic microorganisms.

While it's the direct impact on Coronavirus is still being verified, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says UVC light disinfection has been shown to destroy other types of coronaviruses. 

Is a commercial UV light sanitizer worth the investment?

As with any new product, people have many questions about how UV light sanitizers work and whether they are safe before installing them on their property. So we conducted some research to assist you in determining if a commercial UV light sanitizer is worth investing in.

As mentioned, ultraviolet disinfection is the process of killing or destroying harmful microorganisms in a controlled setting. Bacteria and viruses, as well as algae and protozoa, are examples of microorganisms. UV disinfection is used in water and air purification, waste treatment, foodservice protection, and a variety of other disinfection, including sterilization requirements.

Property owners have recently installed commercial UV light sanitation equipment due to its environmentally sustainable operation, rapid action, simple installation, minimal maintenance, and cost-effectiveness.

There are understandable concerns about the efficacy of any new technology, but evidence shows that commercial UV light sanitizers successfully destroy 99 percent of germs in most situations.

When it comes to efficiency, it is critical to choose high-quality items. Any product you install should be checked and engineered to function for beneficial purposes in your commercial property.  

4 Key points on UV light sanitation 

1) UV light has been used to destroy germs such as bacteria and viruses. You also may have heard of its use in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2, the latest Coronavirus.

2) UV light comes in a variety of forms. UVC light is the most potent form of UV light for destroying germs. It can be used to clean surfaces, the air, and liquids.

3) UVC light destroys germs such as viruses and bacteria by causing damage to molecules such as nucleic acids and proteins. As a result, the germ is unable to carry out the processes required for survival.

4) UVC light is an appealing disinfection choice because it can efficiently inhibit the new Coronavirus without chemicals. 

What does the CDC say about UV light sanitation?

The latest research supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports and improves on previous research supporting the usefulness of an automated UV-C-emitting system to fight pathogens. 

The CDC's suggestion for ultraviolet germicidal irradiation is based on the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) stance on airborne contagious diseases. 

ASHRAE recommends two types of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation techniques: installation in air handlers or ventilating ducts and irradiation of occupied spaces' upper air zones with shielding of lower occupied areas. These methods sanitize the air in a room while protecting inhabitants from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation.

Where Can UV Light Sanitation Be Used?

UV light sanitation has multiple uses. It is most commonly used in:

• Air Disinfection
• Water Disinfection
• Wastewater Treatment
• Aquarium And Pond
• Laboratory Hygiene
• Food And Beverage Protection
• Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
• Water Treatment Systems

SERVPRO Provides Commercial Pathogen Cleaning

We hope you enjoyed learning about commercial UV light sanitation. We have provided this information to you to help keep our community safe. Whether or not you choose to install a commercial UV light sanitizer, you should consider hiring a team of properly trained professionals that offers pathogen cleaning for regular maintenance on your property. 

As opposed to the traditional house or business cleaning, pathogen cleanup is a service that necessitates industry experience, specialized equipment, and the required certifications. 

The professionals at SERVPRO of North Prince William county have the experience and skills to sanitize your commercial property quickly so you can get back to functioning order. 

Is your business prepared for winter weather?

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Prepare your business for winter weather!

-Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rai, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries. 

-Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential. 

-Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.

-Ask your SERVPRO of North Prince William county Professional about starting an Emergency Ready Profile for your business. 

What is an Emergency Ready Profile?

It is a "snapshot" of each building owned/managed by a business, that provides critical information for emergency preparation. 

Flood damage prevention

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

According to the National Flood Insurance program flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States causing $2.7 billion in losses between 2001 and 2010. Flooding is not covered by most homeowner’s insurance policies so it may be necessary to buy a separate flood policy for your home.

Here are a couple of tips to keep water from entering your home during a heavy rain event:

1. Fix foundation leaks that may allow water to enter your home.
2. Make sure your roof is secure and protected.
3.  Clear gutters and drains

If water ever floods your home, getting someone on site as soon as possible is key to keeping the amount of damage to a minimum. SERVPRO of North Prince William county is ready to respond at any time and also provides a free assessment and estimate.

How to protect the pipes from freezing

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

1. Insulate pipes - Exposed pipes are most likely to freeze. The more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be. Make sure to drain the water from outside faucets and insulate them from outside elements.

2. Let water drip - Simply maintaining a light trickle or steady stream of water in your faucets can go a long way in preventing water from freezing up in your pipes.

3. Steady thermostat  - Keeping a consistent temperature in your home or office puts less strain on the furnace. 

All we need to follow these tips is to reminisce on the events following the freeze of 2021. Rolling blackouts, homes completely destroyed due to burst pipes, and citizens stranded with no place to go to keep warm and stay safe. Our team is here, and we are Ready for whatever happens®. 

Is your business ready for a disaster?

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Have you stopped to consider whether or not your business is truly ready for whatever happens?

Sure, you may have your shelves stocked and your labels printed with restock orders on the way. But do you have a plan in place for when the unexpected happens and you’re stuck with picking up the pieces?

You may know SERVPRO of North Prince William county  as your go-to disaster restoration company, which we are. But do you also know that we specialize in helping your business get disaster ready as well? One of the ways we enjoy serving our community partners is by creating Emergency Ready Profiles, or ERPs, for their commercial properties. 

When our dedicated, local SERVPRO Representatives meet with local business owners and facility managers, we gather important materials such as building information, utility shut off locations, and key contacts. Not only is this information important as it pertains to the daily tasks of a facility manager, but it’s also pertinent in the event of an emergency or disaster when time is of the essence. 

One of the key benefits in setting up an ERP with our team is having all of your essential property information in one place. In addition to keeping such relevant information organized, your local SERVPRO of North Prince William county representative will contact you periodically to update any changes to your profile. 

Becoming disaster-ready is a process and our team is eager to help you get started! To set up your free Emergency Ready Profile, call our office today to speak to one of our representatives and ensure that your business is "Ready for whatever happens", just like SERVPRO. 

Cleaning tips

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

Spring  & Summer time has become a great time of year to undertake deeper cleaning projects.  Although spring cleaning is commonly associated with residential homes, it is just as much needed for commercial places as well.  The cold winter months keep everyone cooped up inside and bacteria & messes start to grow.  A good cleaning helps to give workers a more open and less hectic environment; additionally, a clean and welcoming place of business helps to attract customers. Here is a list of some important areas to inspect during your deep cleaning cleaning:   

OUTSIDE

• Windows

Windows are one of the simplest yet crucial areas to keep clean.  Beyond making sure you have squeaky clean windows, check to make sure they have tight seals.  Small gaps in window seals can cause cool air to seep out (and warm air in the winter months), as well as allowing water to trickle in. Checking caulking and weather stripping remains intact and up to par can save you money in the long term. 

• Landscaping

This is very important for the presentation of your business.  Now the grass, flowers, weeds and other plants are starting to grow, it’s important to start grooming your landscape.  Don’t wait till your plants get out of control, hire someone now or take some time yourself to pull the weeds, mow the grass, and trim any trees or bushes.  Additionally, this is a great time to plant some flowers if you want to spruce up your place of business. 

• AC/HVAC

When converting your buildings air flow system from heating to air conditioning now is the best time to quality check your system.  Test your system by running it for a while to make sure it’s working properly, check any old or out of date parts that might need replacing.  Clean out the ventilation system by removing dust particles and any other debris lying inside.  Ventilation systems are rarely cleaned, which is why lots of building owners tend to find pest infestation or mold problems when cleaning their vents/ducts.  It’s best to take these precautions while the temperature is in a transitioning period.  

• Pest Maintenance

Along with the re-birthed trees and plants, spring also brings back hordes of pests.  Ants, spiders, termites, mosquitoes, and even bed bugs can become a problem.  It’s best to take preventative measures to ward off pests instead of being forced to shut the business down for a couple weeks in order to fumigate for pests. Lastly, if you are continually having the same pest problems each year, try to identify exterior factors that might be attracting those pests and any defects in your building that might be letting them in. 

INSIDE

• Dusting

Simple and effective.  Even if you already dust on a regular basis now’s a good time to dust those harder to reach, and often ignored, areas.  

• Flooring/Carpets

As people come in from the rainy times and wipe their feet on your carpets, dirt begins to build up.  Don’t let this grime buildup in your building; buy some strong cleaning products for your floors and a top quality vacuum for carpets. In addition to constantly maintaining floors and carpets, now is a great time to hire a professional carpet and floor cleaner to give your floors a deep clean. 

• Reorganization

Reorganizing comes in two parts.  The first is the organizing of all the previous years files into a consolidated area for ease of access.  Best practice is to do this at the beginning of every year so that your files are neatly organized and easy to find when needed.  The second is the reorganization of the office itself. Ideally, this is a continuing process year round.  If the office has gotten out of hand this can be a good time of year to tidy up and breathe some fresh air into the workplace.  Depending on your type of business will help determine what type of cleaning takes priority. If you need extra help or an even deeper clean call SERVPRO of North Prince William county to help!

Extending the life of your carpet

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Whether you have been living in an apartment complex for 6 months or a two-story house for 10 years, everyone needs to be mindful of when they last had their carpet professionally cleaned. We realize that there are things around the house that are tossed aside and forgotten about, however maintaining clean carpets should not be one of them. Here at SERVPRO® of North Prince William county we understand life happens, like when your child spills a drink all over the carpet or the dog mistakes the carpet, for the grass outside. We get it, but we only want what's best for you and your health. 

Why Does My Carpet Need to be Professionally Cleaned? 

Many people have been exactly where you are now, thinking "I wipe up all spills and vacuum often, I am good to go." That simply is just not the case. And frankly this alone isn't good enough. It may not be evident to the naked eye, but carpets can house all sorts of dirt, bacteria, and allergens that can be harmful to your health. Carpets that are not well maintained can hold dust mites, molds, pet hair, dead skin cells, insect feces, and other particles deep-seated in their fibers. Below are three possible problems that can be the result of carpets that are not well-maintained.

Danger #1: Weak Immune System

• Everyday our bodies fight to keep us healthy and strong. However, living in an unclean environment, leads to being exposed to harmful bacteria, which can cause you to be more susceptible to diseases.
• Getting out carpets professionally cleaned helps to remove dust mites, bacteria and other allergens, which ultimately helps your family breathe easier and reduces the risk of colds and other health problems. As strange as it may sound, dirty carpet can negatively impact the airflow in your home.

Danger #2: Reduces the Life Span of the Carpet

• Not professionally cleaning your carpet allows for dirt to stay embedded inside the fibers of the carpet. Which ultimately will lead to the fibers breaking and wearing down.
• Regular vacuuming will keep your carpet looking good and prevent debris and dirt from embedding into the fibers.
• Keeping your vacuum in good shape will help keep your carpet in good shape. A vacuum that is half full will be much less effective than an empty one. Be sure to keep it cleaned out and keep up on the maintenance with it as well.

Danger #3: Odor in Carpet                                                         

• Professional cleaning companies can use top notch chemicals, to get out odors that regular vacuums or cleaners just simply cannot get out. A couple of these odors are dog urine and cigarette smoke. These odors almost always take a professional crew to come in and get rid of.

Do Not Worry! SERVPRO Can Help!

If you are unsatisfied with your carpet SERVPRO® of North Prince William county is here to help. We are open 24/7 and work to respond quickly to calls.  We care about your health and safety. 

Electric heater safty

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

As winter begins to hit and temperature begins to drop, you may choose to buy a space heater for warm up your home, apartment, or work space. Space heaters are a good alternative if you do not want to turn up your thermostat to heat up your home. However, space heaters, if not used correctly, can cause fire damage to your property. Here are some tips that you can use to prevent any disaster caused by a space heater:

• Leave the heater on level floor, don’t place on carpet - it can overheat and start a fire.
• Do not use in bathroom, unless it is designed for it - moisture can damage the heater.
• Keep three feet away from flammable materials and out of the way of children and pets.
• Should always be plugged directly into wall outlet, don’t use with extension cord because it can cause overheating.
• Don’t leave heater unattended, make sure to unplug when not in use.
• Install smoke alarms on every floor.

If you run into any issues with fire damage, call SERVPRO of North Prince William county.

SERVPRO is here to help

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Prince William county is here to help! 

Like the rest of the nation and much of the world, the North Prince William county, VA area is in high alert due to the coronavirus pandemic. It is strange to think that in just a couple of weeks, we went from our regular lives to maintaining social distance and working from home. We must take every step to prevent the spread of this deadly virus. Children, adults, and the elderly are all vulnerable to contracting COVID-19, so we must do our best to keep it away from our homes.

Residents can reach out to our SERVPRO of North Prince William county crew to help disinfect and clean your home or workplace. Contrary to other companies offering cleaning or disinfection services, it’s something we are trained and certified to do.  We have been we offer cleaning and sanitizing services for years. Our staff trains specifically to address cleanup situations with biohazard threats.

To date, there is no specific protocol proven to eradicate the virus from frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, kitchen counters, and bathrooms. However, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is encouraging the use of hospital-grade, EPA registered disinfectants typically used to remove certain pathogens. Our standards of service include the use of EPA registered cleaning solutions suitable for this kind of work. As the CDC releases new recommendations, we adapt and apply them as appropriate.

In your home, you get to decide what you do to protect your family in this crisis. However, some entities, such as schools and nursing homes, require a third party to verify the effectiveness of the cleanup process. SERVPRO is prepared to coordinate services with any relevant entities as required. Our technicians are professionals in our field and accustomed to high-stakes situations, so dealing with potentially hazardous microbes is nothing new for us.
Advice from the medical and scientific community regarding how to deal with the coronavirus is based on present knowledge, which is subject to change as the situation continues to develop. There can be no assurance that disinfectants alone will be adequate to fully eliminate the virus. We are not physicians or infectious disease professionals. Consult your medical professionals for individual medical advice.

Is standing water dangerous?

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Surface water can affect your home and its tenants in multiple ways. While this standing water can absorb into materials and ultimately allow for the deterioration of exposed structural elements, pooling can also present potential health effects or hazards for those exposed and remaining in the area. 

SERVPRO offers fast extraction and drying solutions for your home after a flood. 

We can help reduce the standing water concerns by offering efficient flood removal. To accomplish this, we can call upon a wide array of extraction and moisture removal tools in our broad inventory. 

What Tools Are Best for Drying Up Flood Damage? 

Because every flooding situation is different from the last, there are different tools and devices that are best to remove water or dry the area. Identifying the most efficient solution is always the priority, as the sooner standing water gets addressed, the less damaging flooding typically becomes. Some of the standard water removal and drying tools include:

• Air Movers
• Dehumidifiers
• Positive Pressure Systems
• Floor Mat Systems

After a flood, you want your home to look like it did before the disaster as soon as possible. Our SERVPRO of North Prince William county counties team can help anytime you need us.

What to do when your refrigerator leaks

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

What happened?

The common cause for these water leaks is the plastic water line behind the refrigerator will crack, a slow drip begins and water pools behind the fridge unnoticed. Another common cause is excess condensation buildup which has the same effect. Water damage from your fridge can cause numerous problems in your home especially since the problem can go unnoticed for so long, at this point the damage has already taken a toll on your floors and surrounding areas. Moisture and heat in the dark environment create perfect conditions for mold to form and your floorboards to rot. This should not be overlooked. Over at SERVPRO we are experts in mold remediation and will gladly remove and prevent further frustrations for you.

So now what?

It is important to first clean up any visible water to avoid further damage and possibilities of mold occurring. Once this is done you should inspect your fridge and see if there are any noticeable leaks or areas where condensation may be forming to excess. It is important to replace any faulty connections to stop the immediate leak if possible. If you are able to, assess the damage done to the area under and around the fridge. Most of the time floorboards will show visible damage, but the real problems can occur underneath where you cannot see. We recommend you give us a call at SERVPRO of North Prince William county where we are available 24/7 to assist. We will send a team out to stop any further damage and spread of mold and help prevent this issue from occurring again. While you may be able to swap out the damaged areas of flooring, mold can continue to grow and cause more problems in the future. With many years of experience we will make the cleanup a quick and easy experience.

Pro tip: add a water alarm behind/under your fridge to catch any further problems from getting far

How to fix busted pipes

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

As the cold weather is starting arrive in North Prince William county, you may experience bursting pipes. You may inspect your commercial property on a regular basis, but sometimes bursting pipes still occur. If you experience water damage, as the result of a damaged pipe, time is of the essence. You want to get it fixed quickly so that you can avoid as much damage as possible. Here is a timeline of how that may go.

Expert Location
As soon as you notice there is a problem, you may want to call water mitigation experts to fix the broken pipe. The representative who answers the phone will likely ask you a few questions to determine what kind of problem you have.

• Where is the pipe located?
• How big is the damaged area?
• How long has it been leaking?
• How fast is it leaking?
• Have you turned off the water and power to the area?

Make sure before you call know these answers or we can guide you through it. If you want to be extra prepared for the cold season, contact your Marketing Rep and have them conduct an ERP, that way you know 100% how to turn off your water at your commercial property.

Damage Assessment
Bursting pipes are as critical as they sound. Water is likely spewing in all directions, soaking everything in its path. Once the technicians arrive, they will assess the damage this has caused and be able to devise a plan.

Water Extraction
If your preliminary report over the phone was accurate, it will likely match the professional assessment pretty closely. This means the technicians can get right to the water extraction. They pump the water out to halt its potential to cause secondary damage.

Surface Drying
It's not enough to just remove the standing water. Everything has to be dried, or your building is likely to develop a mold problem. This is particularly probable if the leak has significantly raised the humidity of the area.

All of these things ideally happen within the first 24 hours. Mold can start to grow in as little as a day, so you are probably rushing the clock to get everything dry again. The sooner you call the problem with your bursting pipes in and get the repair process started, the better chance you have of avoiding secondary damage.

If you do experience a pipe bursting, call SERVPRO of North Price William county. 

Common Causes of Fires

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Here are a few common causes to look out for: 

• Cooking
• 48% of all fires are caused by cooking.
• Remember to turn off source of heat.
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand.
• Heating
• Do not put anything close to the heater.
• Follow guidelines on how the heater can run.
• Electrical Fires
• Make sure fireplaces and lighting are up to code and are safe.
• Ensure alarms are replaced
• Smoking
• Never lay cigarettes, cigars, etc., down and forget about them.
• Smoke outside to avoid any potential fires related to dropping or forgetting about the item.
• Candles
• Never leave a candle unattended.
• All materials should remain 12 inches away from all candles.

These are just some tips in order to prevent fires. SERVPRO at North Prince William county keeps your safety a priority and we hope you and family values that as well. Other things to have in place is a route for you and your family if there ever was a fire. Also, everyone in your family should know the route and plan in place. IF there is a fire in your home, call SERVPRO of North Prince William county.

What to do after a property fire

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Have you had a fire in your home?  "Devastating" is an understatement when experiencing the chaos of a fire in your home. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean-up can be, too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority!  The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage. These can lead to corrosion, unpleasant odor, and discoloration. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem.    Take immediate action by following these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire:  1. Contact your insurance company. 2. Contact your local fire restoration company. 3. Take photographs of the damage. 4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company. 5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed. 6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property. While a house fire is a difficult experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So remember these steps for the next time you or someone you know is handling the aftermath of a house fire, and call SERVPRO® of North Prince William county.

Do you have a leaky roof?

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

We have experience flash flooding from excessive rains this year all over North Prince Willam county, actually we just experienced this last night. Due to the flooding, there have been many homes experiencing basement flooding damage. With further inspection, some homeowners have found slab leaks (roof leaks) that were not noticed before the heavy rains. If you find any roof leaks, call SERVPRO® of North Prince Willam county to help extract the water and treat your home to prevent conditions favorable to microbial growth.

We always respond to your call within one hour, begin the water extraction process within four hours, and notify the adjuster within eight hours from the time of your loss. 

Water damage must be handled quickly and properly to prevent severe damage to your home. Calling us as soon as you see the leaks will prevent the problems from worsening. SERVPRO® of North Prince Willam county has you covered!

What causes indoor flooding

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage usually has one major leading cause: indoor flooding. Some of the most common causes of indoor flooding are: 

• Leaky or Broken Pipes: The most obvious cause of indoor flooding is leaky or broken water pipes. Pipes can burst from changes in water pressure or even a faulty setup, but regardless of the cause, pipe problems often cause a ton of damage. Leaky pipes are usually a warning sign of more problems to come. Hidden floods caused by broken pipes in your walls can even create the perfect environment for microbial growth.
• Faulty Washing Machine Hose: The most common problem with watching machines are faulty hoses. A leak in your intake hose can worsen over time and can cause flooding in your home. 
• Water Heaters: Even a small leak in your water heater can cause major flooding due to its endless flow of water. Make sure to inspect your water heater on a regular basis, keeping up with maintenance to ensure it doesn’t spring a leak.
• Clogged Sewer or Drain Lines: The flow of water to and from your house can be disrupted when you have clogged sewer or drain lines. Some clogs might be benign, allowing for a slow drain that is merely an inconvenience. But those clogs can get worse over time. The clog can cause your sinks, toilets, and showers to overflow with water, resulting in major damage. This can even include backed-up sewage, causing a hazardous environment for anyone or anything that comes in contact with the affected water. 

If you find flooding inside your home, call us and we will be there to help.

Salvaged Items After a Mold Damage

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know Mold can grow on more than just your walls?

It can grow on a variety of items, from furniture to walls to wood and flooring. When it comes to mold cleaning, however, you may be surprised about the number of objects that can be salvaged when you know the steps for cleaning them properly.

1. Leather Goods

Leather bags, jackets, and other items may be salvageable if you remove them from the affected area quickly. Because mold tends to spread faster in areas with high humidity, you can perform mold remediation for these items by transferring them to a room that is cool and dry. Once the leather has dried, you can sponge the surface with diluted baby soap to wipe away visible mold. Suede goods may need to be treated by a mold cleanup and restoration company.

2. Clothing

While not all clothing can recover from mold damage, you may be able to salvage some items. An Esporta Machine, which is designed to clean cotton clothing affected by mold, smoke, and other substances, can be effective in removing mold. You may be able to soak some fabrics in diluted vinegar to remove the mold, but this depends on how fragile the fabric is. Your restoration experts may able to advise you about other mold cleaning processes.

3. Paintings

Paintings affected by mold require special treatment. You may want to remove any wooden framing, as mold is attracted by wood fibers. Store the painting flat, away from humidity and sunlight, before contacting a professional artwork restoration company. Avoid bagging or sealing it in any kind of tight container, as this may create humid conditions that could encourage further mold growth. 

What to do...

When you find mold growth on your belongings, you may not know where to begin with mold cleaning. Contacting SERVPRO of Birmingham for removing your items from areas where mold is present. Our team can help you salvage irreplaceable items and proceed with the rest of the cleanup with confidence.

What to do after a fire!

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Have you had a fire in your home?  "Devastating" is an understatement when experiencing the chaos of a fire in your home. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean-up can be, too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority!  The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage. These can lead to corrosion, unpleasant odor, and discoloration. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem.    Take immediate action by following these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire:  1. Contact your insurance company. 2. Contact your local fire restoration company. 3. Take photographs of the damage. 4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company. 5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed. 6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property. While a house fire is a difficult experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So remember these steps for the next time you or someone you know is handling the aftermath of a house fire, and call SERVPRO® of North Prince William county.

Drywall Water Damage and Mold Growth

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let black mold happen in your home.

Floods can cause some lasting damage to your walls as well as ruining your carpets, furniture, and personal belongings. Drywall, which can easily collect and trap moisture inside, if you act quickly enough, you can avoid having to deal with black mold. 

Conditions for Mold Growth

Though it may not look that way, mold is alive and it needs food, water, and oxygen to survive. Usually, homes can provide two of these things — oxygen and food. Mold typically feeds on organic matter, such as paper and wood, commonly used for the structural elements of a house. Drywall acts like a sponge so that even 1” of flooding could cause the drywall to become wet up to 4’ from the floor. Also, the paper backing of drywall is a perfect food source full of nutrients for mold.

But of course, when your home is dry, there’s no need to worry. No matter how much organic matter you have in the house, mold won’t start growing without water. But remember — even the smallest excess moisture could spell trouble. That’s why it’s crucial to keep your home dry at all times!

What to Do in Case of Drywall Water Damage

Try as you might to keep your home dry, sometimes things can go wrong. For example, you could experience a flood, or a pipe could suddenly burst in your bathroom, or you could experience a slow leak from your water heater.  Either way, you might find yourself having to deal with serious drywall water damage and potential mold growth.

To prevent black mold growth, the first thing you need to do is dry out the area as quickly as possible. If you have any paintings, furniture, or other décor hanging or leaning on the wall, remove them. The damaged area needs to be exposed to air in order to dry faster.

Unfortunately, you need to take down your wallpaper too. That can be time-consuming, but it’s necessary because moisture could accumulate behind it. For that same reason, you should remove all baseboards and molding — they provide perfect hiding places for mold.

Now that your drywall is completely bare, you may begin the drying process. Open the windows to allow air to circulate or get some fans and dehumidifiers to help. Don’t stop until you are 100% certain that the drywall is fully dry. If you’re not sure how to tell, call SERVPRO of North Prince William County today and we can check for you and give you advice.

Once your walls are dry, you can hang your paintings back and re-apply wallpaper. Of course, make sure that no items you put up are wet. 

In Conclusion

Black mold on drywall can cause serious damage to your home’s structure, but more importantly your health. If you’ve discovered mold growth despite your best efforts to avoid it, give us a call. Sometimes the problem can be too difficult for you to handle alone but easy enough for a professional mold cleaning company. So don’t hesitate — put your health and the health of your family first and call us today!

Biohazard Clean-up & Safety Precautions

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

One of the lesser known types of jobs we face at SERVPRO of North Prince William County are those that pertain to biohazard, Biohazard is defined as a biological substance that poses a threat to the health of living organisms, primarily humans and could include blood and bodily fluid.

Part of the precautions that we take to keep our techs safe, is proper training, and continuing education; we are never done learning how to be even better at our jobs. Another part to how we keep our techs safe is through proper PPE, also known as “Personal Protective Equipment”. One of the important requirements for our techs is to have or acknowledge the need for a Hepatitis B vaccination. For extreme biohazard risk, our techs will apply a suit, gloves, face mask, and then seal it with tape, to ensure full security from biohazard elements.

We at SERVPRO of North Prince William County always ensure the safety of not just out customers, but our employees too!

SERVPRO of North Prince William County is there to clean up after deaths, sickness, sewage, or accidents, so you don’t have to.  Call us today!

'Tis the Season - Fire Safety Tip #1

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Tip #1 - Preventing Christmas Tree Fire

'Tis the Season to be festive and merry with decorations around the house.  You will most likely find amidst those decorations the glorious Christmas Tree in all its glory!  

According to the NFPA, between 2013-2017, U.S. fire departments responded to an average 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year.

Here are a few tips to help prevent a tragedy in your home this year.

1. Pick a fresh-looking tree

Fresh trees are much less likely to catch fire, according to the American Christmas Tree Association. If purchasing a real Christmas tree, it’s essential to choose a tree with green needles, regardless of the type of tree.

You can also tell a fresh tree from a dry one by handling the foliage.  Signs of a fresh tree include soft and flexible needles that don’t easily fall off.

Fir needles from a fresh tree should crisply snap if you fold them. Experts recommend continuing to test your tree’s needles for freshness throughout its duration in your home.

2. Keep the tree watered

Constant moisture is key, because a dried-out Christmas tree in a home is a recipe for disaster.

In fact, a parched tree can burn faster than newspaper, according to the NFPA.  

Experts recommend keeping a real tree watered at all times to ensure that it remains consistently moist.

A medium to large Christmas tree can drink up to a gallon of water a day.

3. Keep tree away from heat

Ensure that the tree is at least 3 feet way from any heat source, including fireplaces, radiators or heat vents, the NFPA recommends.

Experts also recommend that lit candles should NEVER be used to decorate a tree.

4. Shake the tree

Give your real tree a good shake, experts suggested. If you find that a lot of needles fall to the ground, it’s a sign that the tree isn’t getting enough water, which poses a fire risk.

5. Check the tree’s lights

Faulty lights can cause a tree to ignite, which is why It’s essential to check the lights you use to decorate the tree.

The NFPA recommends using lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory and keeping in mind that some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.

Examine the lights and keep an eye out for any frayed wires, broken bulbs and any loose connections, he recommended. If you spot signs of damage or wear, the lights should be replaced.

Experts also recommend preventing a short circuit by avoiding overloading extension cords and power sockets with Christmas tree light strands.

6. Turn off your tree’s lights

Ensure that your lights are always turned off when you’re not around to keep an eye on them, experts suggested.

7. Get rid of your tree soon after the holidays

We at SERVPRO of North Prince William County wish you a Safe and Happy Holiday!

Seasonal Storms - Are You Prepared?

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Here in North Prince William County, we are no strangers to the seasonal storms that affect our area.  Whether it be hurricanes, flooding, snowstorms, or freezes it is important to be prepared for whatever may come.  Part of being prepared is knowing what to do when the storm has passed.  If you find yourself being affected by a storm event in the area, call SERVPRO of North Prince William County immediately.  Time is of the essence in these types of situations, so it is important to act as quickly as possible so we can start making your storm damage, "Like it never even happened."

How You Can Start Preparing Now:

Know Our Area's Risk

Heavy rainfall, high winds, flooding, snowstorms and freezes are weather related things our area needs to be aware and cautious of.  

Stock Up on The Necessities

It is not uncommon for these larger storms to lead to power outages.  Make sure you are stocked up on water, food, batteries for flashlights, and anything else you may need to feel more comfortable during a power outage.  Keeping your cellphones fully charged as the storm nears is also smart; being able to contact family, friends, and first responders is always important!

Stay Informed

Keep an eye on our local news and weather alerts, for information regarding the storm.  Staying alert for flash flood warnings and strong wind advisories can help keep you and your family safe throughout the storm.

Have a Backup Plan

If your home is in an area prone to flash flooding, have a backup plan!  Call relatives and friends and make a plan to visit a home in a safer location during the storm!

For more information on emergency preparedness, visit ready.gov

You can also check SERVPROprep.com for more ways to keep your home safe

If you find your home has been affected by damage as a result of the storm, call SERVPRO of North Prince William County at 703-368-4399, and we will make it, "Like it never even happened."

Sewage Backup is Not Necessarily a “Do it Yourself” Job.

9/30/2020 (Permalink)

When you experience sewage backup, trust SERVPRO of North Prince William County to aid in your cleanup process properly.

Experiencing sewage backup is never a pleasant event. Did you know that harmful contaminants can pose serious health risks if not addressed quickly and properly?  Not only does this mess cause problems with your home, but it can cause problems with yours and your family’s health as well. It’s not an easy fix or an easy clean up when trying to handle the situation on your own.

If you’ve recently had sewage backup in your home or are looking for ways to prevent a sewage backup from happening and aren’t sure what to do, then continue reading. The following is a guide on everything you need to know about how to prevent, clean, and handle a sewage backup in your home. 

WHAT TO DO IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING A SEWAGE BACKUP

There are important measures that should be taken in order to prevent the problem from spreading. The first couple of things that you should do immediately after realizing your home has had a sewage backup are as follows:

1. Be sure to remove any children, pets, and seniors from the home. Do not allow them back into the area until the damage is completely fixed and safe.
2. Keep yourself safe by putting on any protective clothing such as rubber boots, rubber gloves, eye protection, a face mask, and more. 
3. If the distribution panel is above water, switch off the electricity by using a dry wooden stick and rubber gloves. 
4. Turn off the water in your home, and do not use any water for bathing, drinking, washing hands or dishes, and others. This water may be contaminated.
5. You may need to contact your utility companies and have them shut off the supply to your home if you cannot safely turn them off yourself.
6. Open your home’s doors and windows to allow proper air ventilation. You won’t want to use your home’s AC as this will spread contaminated air throughout your home.
7. Remove any items from the area that are dry and not contaminated.
8. You can add small amounts of chlorine bleach into the standing water to slightly disinfect.
9. Contact your insurance company and notify them of the backup. You’ll want to take pictures of any damage that the sewage backup caused. This will come in handy as proof when filing your claim.
10. Never attempt to unclog the drains. You will need to clean up the sewage spill before taking any further action.  

THINGS TO REMEMBER

There are key things to remember when handling sewage spill in your home. Remembering these key tips will help keep your home and family safe, prevent further damage, and ensure that your insurance company has all the documents that they need.

1. Along with providing your pictures, the insurance company will also want you to provide receipts of any work that had to be done due to the backup, of any materials bought to aid in the cleanup and fixing your home, and of any replaced items that were damaged. 
2. Keep the infected area shut off from the rest of the home as best as you can. This includes shutting all doors that attach to the infected area. By keeping the doors shut, there is a less likely chance of contaminated air spreading into the other rooms.
3. Do not use harsh chemicals in your pipes to try to fix the problem. This can cause great damage to your pipes and instead, you’ll want to hire a professional plumber. Professional plumbers know how to properly clean out the pipes. 

HOW TO START CLEANING AND SANITIZING 

Before beginning to clean up the area without a professional, be sure to wear the proper protective gear. You’ll also want to consider the risks of beginning the cleanup on your own. It’s always best to call in the professionals to ensure that the job is done correctly. 

Here are some ways you can begin cleaning up the mess:

1. Use natural draining or a pump to remove any of the backed-up water and sewage. You’ll need to contact the authorities to ask where to properly drain the sewage into.
2. Remove and clean any dirt, or debris from the surfaces that the sewage came into contact with.
3. Properly wash any walls, floors, and other surfaces that the sewage water may have touched. Use a low-suds detergent and clean hot water. 
4. Rinse these surfaces with warm water after cleaning.
5. Sanitize all surfaces with a sanitizing solution. And be sure not to contaminate other rooms by walking into them with dirty shoes.
6. Open any windows and doors leading outside to air out the room.

HOW TO PREVENT A SEWAGE BACKUP

If you’ve experienced a sewage backup in your home, then you understand the importance of taking all appropriate measures to prevent it from happening again. If you’ve never experienced a sewage backup in your home, trust us when we say that you’ll be happy you took the time to read through the steps on preventing it.

Here are some steps you can take to prevent a sewage backup:

1. Have a regular inspection done on all pipes and valves in your home and on your property. Make sure they’re in good condition and receive any needed repairs.
2. Don’t place large amounts of chemical products down into the sewage system.
3. Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper down the toilets.
4. Don’t allow grease to go down the kitchen drain as it may harden in the pipes.
5. Avoid planting trees near the pipes as their roots may cause the pipes to break.

WHEN TO CALL IN THE PROFESSIONALS 

When dealing with a sewage backup, it’s always best to call in the professionals. These are just some steps that you can take to ensure everyone’s safety and to begin the cleaning process, but we highly recommend that you leave it to the professionals to come in and get the job done correctly and safely.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to safely clean these messes. Our highly trained team of technicians are ready to respond immediately to flooding from things like heavy rain or a broken pipe or when water damage is caused by an appliance failure or overflowed toilet at your property. Our teams have the experience, expertise, and training to restore your home or business quickly and properly. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment to find the water and remove it as quickly as possible. Our technicians will monitor and document the drying process to ensure your property is restored back to normal providing you peace of mind. 

Your Home is Your Castle, So Why Not Trust in the Professionals?

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Your home is your castle, so why not trust the professionals to do the professional's job? 

Here are just a few reasons to trust the professionals at SERVPRO of North Prince William County:

COMPANY CULTURE

At SERVPRO of North Prince William County we believe in treating every home or business we step foot into as if it were our own.  One of our company goals is to treat everyone and everything as you would if it was our family going through this loss.  It doesn’t matter if it’s a small stain on the carpet or three feet of raw sewage in a basement, we will treat your loss with the utmost respect and professionalism.

COMMUNICATION IS KEY

At SERVPRO of North Prince William County we know that communication is key. When you experience a loss in your home, you have many questions.   It is our goal to have someone available to answer your questions.  We want you to know that as our customer, we work for you, not the other way around. 

You and your insurance company will be informed every step of the way.  We always work on an approval only basis, which means that we will only do the work that you as the homeowner and/or your insurance company has approved.  We want to make sure this process is as smooth and painless as possible. 

HIGHLY TRAINED SPECIALISTS

Since first opening the doors, training has been the backbone of SERVPRO success nationwide.  We are an IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified firm.  The IICRC is a certification and Standards Developing Organization (SDO) non-profit organization for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries and is what most insurance companies base their standards on.  Unlike most companies, ALL our employees are trained to these standards.  

FASTER TO ANY DISASTER

A fast response is crucial!  An immediate response helps to minimize the damage, the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. Our technicians arrive quickly and start the extraction right away.  The faster we can extract and stabilize, the fewer things become damaged.

Need Emergency Service? Call SERVPRO of North Prince William County 24/7 – 703-368-4399

Flooding and Water Emergencies - Not Just an 8 AM - 5 PM Service

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Have you ever noticed that the low battery indicator alarm in your smoke detectors always seem to alert you in the middle of the night??

Well, just like your smoke detector, flooding and water emergencies don’t always wait for regular business hours to occur.  Luckily, SERVPRO of North Prince William County 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 can be very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of North Prince William County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

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 North Prince William County

SERVPRO of North Prince William County 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.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 703-368-4399

Fire Safety Tips During Grilling Season

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

Ahhhh summer...a time when friends and family get together to enjoy the beautiful weather to eat and especially during the hot summer months…cook outdoors! And, who doesn’t love a good BBQ?  70% of US households own a grill and odds are will fire it up at least once a week during the summer.  Be that as it may, it is also when fire can become an issue for your home and property.  According to the U.S. Fire Administration, roughly 5,700 grill fires take place on residential property every year amounting to an annual average of $37 million in damages.

As you fire up your grill or smoker of choice, here are some basic tips:

• When grilling, it is important to do so in a safe environment. Have a space outdoors where you can set up a grill safely and on level ground with a three-foot space between any structures nearby that could catch fire.
  • If you live in a condominium or an apartment, check with your landlord/property manager to find out if grilling on your balcony area is acceptable before you do it!
• When lighting/igniting your grill, always open the lid prior to turning on the propane. Backdrafts can occur if you leave the lid closed while lighting.
• Be sure to wear short sleeve clothing when grilling to stay safe from the grill flames.
• NEVER leave the grill unattended!
• Be sure you have a fire extinguisher nearby to put out any fires that may occur.
• Clean your grill after each use to prevent grease fires.
• Dispose of used coals in a metal can with lid after they have cooled.

We at SERVPRO of North Prince William County hope you stay safe and enjoy cooking outdoors safely!

Storm Damage - Recommended steps to take

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

Heavy/isolated storms may cause damage to your home and/or business causing some safety and health hazards to you or your loved ones.  Here are some strategies that can help you to deal with the damage immediately after the storm.

Heavy wind and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofs, window damage, rain soaked walls or standing water in the basement of your business or home.

Once the storm passes when it is safe to do so, conduct a physical walk through of your building, home and/or property. 

Things to check:

• Do you smell any gas? If so, shut off the main gas line.
• Are there any downed power lines near your property? If so, stay away from the line and shut off your main breaker switch.  Contact your local electrical company. 
• Check for any signs of leaking from the roof or windows. Check your basement (if you have one) to see if you experienced any leaking/flooding.  Any type of moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials and can make the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health issues. .
• Check your property for any broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects that may have been scattered due to the storm.

In the unfortunate event your home or business suffers storm damage contact your insurance agent to notify them so they can start your claim.  Next, contact a reputable company like, SERVPRO® of North Prince William County who will work seamlessly with your insurance company to help alleviate any hassles, which means less worry for you. Our employees work with insurance adjusters every day and help to ensure things are going according to plan and the job is properly documented. Being in business for over 19 years, whatever property and casualty insurance you or your company uses, odds are we have worked with them in the past.  If you need the job done right with less hassle for you, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO® of North Prince William County 703-368-4399.

When a storm-related disaster strikes, it may seem overwhelming, but we hope these steps can help you to begin the process of restoring your home, your business and/or your life back to normal.

Phase 3 Reopening - SERVPRO of North Prince William County is Here to Help.

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Prince William County is an essential business and always open 24/7.

As the state of Virginia begins entering into Phase 3 reopening, SERVPRO of North Prince William County has and continue to receive calls from businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bio-remediation services to clean, disinfect, and sanitize their properties. We have helped many offices, homes and facilities, but that does not mean we are not here for our local area business owners and residential customers for our core services!

We are always here for you when your local business, residence or commercial space experiences a water or fire loss, mold, or damage from a storm event.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County, will continue to answer your phone calls so that we can provide estimates for remediation and/or help with any restoration services you might need. (Restoration is defined as "essential" so our services are necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and operation for the people in Virginia and West Virginia areas). 

Per our mission, we will be “Here to Help” when you need us most and provide a service that keeps your business functioning.

We will continue to monitor this situation with the goal of keeping you, your families and your business, staff, and customers comfortable during these uncertain times.

Whether you need deep cleaning services, water, fire or mold remediation, we are here to service you 24/7.

If you or your family has any additional questions about our services or protocol, please do not hesitate to call our office: (703) 368-4399.

Increase Your Odds of Re-Opening After a Disaster

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

The New Year brings opportunity for new beginnings! Start 2020 off right be being READY!

Did you know up to 50% of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen?

Of the businesses that do survive a disaster, the overwhelming majority had an emergency preparedness plan in place.

Ready.gov has a lot of useful information on all the possible disasters and emergencies that could possibly befall you or your business.  I would like to be able to narrow it all down to a simple quip or phrase and send you on your way but that wouldn't be the responsible thing to do.  You really need to take the time to educate yourself, and your employees, and then come up with a plan that best suits your business.  After all you and your employees are the help until the help arrives.  Make your plan and know what to do before the time comes.  Here is a direct link to the Business Emergency Preparedness Social Media Toolkit to help you get started.

Make your resolution one that helps protect you and your business. Call us today at (703) 368-4399 to learn about how we can help you be "Ready for whatever happens" in the New Year!

Water Damage Tips

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Ceiling cave in from water weight.

Water damage is a big problem that can destroy not only your home and finances, but also the sentimental items that you can’t put a price tag on. For that reason it’s a good idea to know the causes of water damage. But if you cannot avoid it then here are some tips on what to do if you have been victimized by it.

The first concern should be the safety of you and whoever else is in the affected home or area. Some of the most common causes of injury after water damage to a structure are slip hazards, and electrical shock due to careless mistakes that could have been avoided. On this note, don’t just go about business as usual, avoid kitchen appliances, and avoid tampering with major electrical devices that are connected to the building until authorities have deemed that it is safe to do so. This includes ceiling fans, lights, and televisions.

The next concern should be to begin the cleanup process. Depending on the severity of your damage you may need to contact the local authorities, and insurance provider, but eventually they will most likely get a SERVPRO® crew out to your location to fix it up.

Learn more about water damage, or any of the other services that we offer at SERVPRO®. If you find yourself dealing with a disaster, and need emergency repair, contact SERVPRO® of Prince William County today!  703-368-4399

Bio-remediation

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Bio-hazard cleanup

We never hope that we need to call for services such as human remains, animal feces, blood spills, or hoarding scenes, but the reality is that there are times when unfortunate things happen in our community. When you need to remove bio-hazardous materials from your home SERVPRO® of North Prince William County is the trusted resource at your disposal.

The fact is we are "faster to any size disaster" and don’t sacrifice quality.  We are equipped to handle any type of bio-hazardous cleanup job. The longer cleanup is delayed the worse the environment will get, so reaction time is critical.

In the event of hoarding scenes, we work compassionately with the home owner and his or her loved ones to clean up the scene while other health and/or mental health professionals tend to the affected person.

No one wants to get informed about accidents, death, murder, hoarding, or suicide but if you are in the difficult position of calling for the cleanup of any of these events, and need to have dangerous materials removed you can be sure that we have the highly trained and experienced crews.

If you are searching for bio-remediation, or for a murder or suicide cleanup, contact us, day or night, and we’ll be there to help. Just call 703-368-4399 and our professional staff will be happy to help.

What is Black Mold

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Black mold on sheetrock

Black mold, or stachybotrys chartarum, is a type of living organism that can cause health problems to you and your family. In this article we’re going to take a quick look at how black mold works and what you can do to prevent it from growing in your home.

How Does Black Mold Work?

Black mold grows in an environment that is high in moisture and low in nitrogen, which makes up 78% of the air we breathe. Therefore, we can deduce that if there is not much air movement, but enough water content in a particular environment, mold can grow there. There are plenty of materials in your home that black mold can feed off, drywall, and carpet being among the most common.

How Can We Prevent Mold Growth?

Mold actually grows in abundance in our world, so we cannot get rid of it entirely. However, that doesn’t mean we should accept black mold in our homes. If you have had water damage in your home or business, you should be on the lookout for mold. Preventative measures include making sure that you dry the area thoroughly. Remember to have your carpet properly dried because if the water has been trapped underneath your floor or carpet you will likely have mold growth.

SERVPRO® of North Prince William County is a leader in mold remediation. If you have mold and need help call us today, we’re always here to help!  703-368-4399

Fire Safety - Kitchen

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

Follow this link to see the after photo of this kitchen. https://www.SERVPROnorthprincewilliamcounty.com/before-after-photos/

Fire damage restoration is our specialty.  We are trusted experts in our field. We are here when you need us.  Before that time comes we like to provide you with information to keep you and your loved ones away from harm.  Some disasters can be prevented. SERVPRO of North Prince William County cares about the community we serve.

Grease fires - we’ve heard of them, maybe even experienced them, but what about them?

Well, first of all, they can happen to anyone.  The most common reason a grease fire occurs is leaving a pan on the stove unattended with oil in it.  The oil heats up, smokes and eventually catches fire. You don’t have to spill grease or have something else flammable nearby.  Oil in a pan unattended, heating up past the smoking point, will get to the point it sets itself on fire.

Guess what, it’s happened to me and this may be a shocker to you but it was SILENT!  No smoke alarm, nothing. Just flames shooting up out of my pan. I was fortunate because although I did also have something very flammable next to it (another no no) it didn’t ignite.  

Enough about me.  If this happens to you, you need to smother the fire and take the oxygen away.  A metal cover or cookie sheet are good options for smothering the fire (glass will shatter from heat).  You can also use salt or baking soda but only for a very small fire otherwise you will need large amounts to dump on and smother the fire.  Flour and other items that seem like salt or baking soda are NOT the same and should not be used. It is also wise to have a special extinguisher in the kitchen for this type of fire.  Be sure you know what you are using before spraying it, all extinguishers are not created equal. The best thing to do is pay attention and don’t leave the stove unattended and, of course, call the fire department if things are out of hand.

Ok, I’ve held out long enough.  I can’t talk grease without thinking of bacon.  If you are someone that likes bacon or cooks bacon for others that like bacon…I have a method for cooking bacon your bacon eaters will love!

At first I resisted this method because I thought it would soak up too much grease, yada, yada, yada.  I’m here to tell you this method of frying bacon beats ALL other methods. I’ve never seen this method anywhere else (except my mother-in-laws kitchen). There’s no splatter, the bacon cooks evenly and it doesn’t curl up needing to be pressed to the pan.  Perfect every time and easy. (I’ve never set this on fire.)

Here’s what you do.

1. Open bacon package of your choosing just needs to be sliced first.
2. Cover another plate with flour (amount depends on how much bacon you cook).
3. I take scissors and cut the bacon in half so the strips are shorter (I like this a lot!!!).
4. Dredge each piece in the flour (both sides of bacon should be covered with flour).
5. Place bacon on frying pan (I prefer flat electric skillet, so grease can drain off).
6. At about 325° the bacon will cook nice and even, flip after a few minutes when the bottom is browned.
7. Remove from pan and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease.
8. Store in fridge or enjoy immediately.  You can even freeze it for quick use in the future.  I just warm it up in the microwave when I need it.  

There you go!  Next time you cook something, remember to be attentive and not let the oil get too hot and if you use this recipe remember it was SERVPRO of North Prince William County that saved your bacon!

https://youtu.be/WcffMgKUmMc

Putting the Pieces Back Together

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

When I tell people I work for SERVPRO they often say “what’s that?”  Once I start explaining the light goes on and they tell me they’ve seen the green vans, trucks etc.  That tells me they haven’t needed our services in their home or business yet. What about the ones that have needed our services?  You can read for yourself what they have to say here: https://www.SERVPROnorthprincewilliamcounty.com/testimonials

   Among the people that haven’t needed our services yet there is often the misconception of what we can do for them.  Today I’d like to shed some light on the building and reconstruction side of our business. Yes, we take away the damaged and/or affected materials but we are capable of much more than that.

   Here at SERVPRO we have specialists trained in Fire Damage, Water Damage, Mold Remediation and more but we don’t have to leave you there.  Why find yourself someone else to come in and reconstruct your home or business? We are there, we are already familiar with your area of concern, and we know what happened.  No need to keep explaining and searching for someone properly licensed and insured to schedule and do the work. You already found us. We are licensed and insured and ready to begin your reconstruction.  

Chances are you’ve already experienced enough stress, let us take care of this for you.  Still uncertain of what I’m talking about and thinking we can’t possible help your unique situation?  Please check out our Building and Reconstruction Services at the link below. https://www.SERVPROnorthprincewilliamcounty.com/building-services

   I think you will be surprised at all we can do for you.  There is a reason we say we can make it “Like it never even happened.”  We have trained professionals using the right tools to get the job done, commercial or residential.  Please call if you have any questions about our services or want to make an appointment. SERVPRO of North Prince William County  (703) 368-4399.

Ready for Snow?

9/28/2019 (Permalink)

Snow!  Why talk snow in September?  

Here’s the thing.  Like it or not, Winter is coming.

We are glad you have added us to your contacts in case you have a disaster at your home or business (That’s (703) 368-4399 for SERVPRO of North Prince William County, for those just joining us); however, we like to talk prevention before a disaster occurs.

Now is the time to prevent winter disasters.  What can possibly happen in the winter? A few things.  We will start with your roof. One thing to consider is the pitch of your roof.  When you look at your roof is it steep or does it have a part that is almost level?  These are the areas to look out for. The steeper the pitch is the easier it is for the snow to slide off.  Snow is more likely to collect and dam up on a flat roof, a lot of commercial buildings have a flat roof.  

Buildings with a flat roof need to make sure their drains are clear especially after the falling leaves.  During the winter months, if we experience wet weather with cold temperatures and snow mixed in you need to make sure your drains are not blocked by ice.  Ice blockage can cause the melting snow to stay there and become heavier with each freeze and new snowfall.    

Buildings with a pitch need to keep an eye and make sure the snow is not building up too much.  Snow is water, water is heavy. It is a good idea to have a roof rake on hand to pull down the snow.  This is especially important for 3’ or 4’ around the eaves. If you have a snow build up (possibly evident by the appearance of icicles) this can cause the melting snow to be trapped creating what is called an ice dam.  An ice dam can be damaging to your roof. The snow melts, can’t run off the roof, and refreezes when the temperature drops. Water expands as it freezes and this particular water has to freeze in an upward motion pushing at your shingles in a way you do not want.  Usually this is happening under a layer of white snow so you are unaware and unable to see the ice underneath. 

My best advice to avoid winter damage to your roof is this:  Take your beautiful pictures to show your friends and family and then clean off the snow.  That includes icicles. Icicles are pretty to look at but are very dangerous when they fall.

Be prepared.  Be safe. Call SERVPRO of North Prince William County (703) 368-4399.  We are “faster to any size disaster.”

Clean air and HVAC efficiency

9/21/2019 (Permalink)

Happy Fall Y’all!

You always hear about Spring Cleaning but what about Fall?  Fall is a time of transition in preparation for Winter and all the holidays that come in between.  That makes it a perfect time to clean out and organize. Those items you haven’t used in years...maybe it’s time to donate them and tidy up your space a bit.

While that’s a great idea and a lot of us do that, there is something else on my mind today.  Air Duct Cleaning. Do you ever think of the air you breathe everyday in your home (or business)?  You may take it for granted but it truly is important to do more than just change the air filter regularly.  Cleaning out the air ducts can improve air quality and HVAC efficiency.  

Now, not everyone needs to do this today.  You should assess your unique situation. Have you had construction or remodeling going on that may have kicked up an inordinate amount of dust/debris?  Do you have mold or moisture concerns? Whatever your situation is Fall is a good time to have your ductwork cleaned out. Your system has been working hard for you all summer and now it may work a little less before gearing up for the winter months. 

Call your SERVPRO, SERVPRO of North Prince William County, if you need your ductwork cleaned.  Remember, we offer a variety of services, so go through your list and see what else you need...we can probably help you with that as well, it doesn’t hurt to ask.  One stop shop!

Enjoy the season!  We got this for you.

Water Damage is not a DIY Project

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

When you think of water damage what comes to mind?  Flooding? Basements? When I think of water damage I think of ceilings.  A Leaky roof or an upstairs bathroom flooding can cause water damage leading to wet ceilings and/or walls.  If you’ve bought a new home with past water damage you may not see the signs for a few months when the telltale marks start to bleed through the new paint.  

Paint is like a bandage covering a problem but not fixing it at all.  In fact your paint may not be covering a spot of old water damage but hiding a larger problem of a still leaking pipe or dampness or condensation in your walls.  I’m sure you know where this is heading...mold! Mold is preventable. There is no need to get paralyzed with fear when you hear the “M” word or cover it and hope it will go away (it won’t).  Mold is a natural occurrence, call the SERVPRO of North Prince William County Mold Remediation Professionals if you think you may have mold. Equally important though is calling SERVPRO of North Prince William County when you have water damage.  It is important to clean and dry the area correctly to help prevent mold issues. We are trusted, trained professionals and we are here 24/7/365 to help you. 

When I think of water damage I also think of Cousin Eddie.  This is one of my personal experiences with water damage. We had just moved into a brand new home.  Cousin Eddie dropped in to say “hi.” Cousin Eddie ended up spending the night! The next morning at breakfast Cousin Eddie says: “Man, you guys have a nice bathtub!”  I’m thinking, what??? Our tub is an average shower/tub combo. Hmmm. Then Cousin Eddie says this: “I took a bath this morning. I think I was 12 the last time I was able to fit in a tub.  Yours is so big I could be fully submerged in the water!!!” (NO, it is definitely NOT!!!) I may have let out a half whimper/sob as my eyes went to the ceiling (I couldn’t help it, I had to know).  Sure enough, the ceiling was already starting to bulge with water. In Cousin Eddie’s defense (there really is none), part of the problem was the overflow valve on the bath tub wasn’t hooked up or hooked up poorly so it had the same effect as if Cousin Eddie’s bath water overflowed the tub onto the floor.  In the bathtub overflow valve’s defense, it didn’t stand a chance of keeping up with the overflow of Cousin Eddie!  

If you have a Cousin Eddie incident call SERVPRO of North Prince William County.  We are “faster to any size disaster” leaving your house “Like it never even happened.”  Now that's a relief!

                  Add us to your contacts!

                       (703) 368-4399

SERVPRO Cares - School Bus Safety

8/15/2019 (Permalink)

When the panic of a disaster hits you will be glad you thought ahead...put SERVPRO of North Prince William County in your phone NOW.  If disaster strikes we are here for you 24/7/365! Call SERVPRO of North Prince William County (703) 368-4399

It’s that time of year again.  Yep, you guessed it, back to school!  Some kids are happy, some kids are sad.  Some Moms are sad, some moms are happy. Wherever you fall on the happy/sad spectrum one thing is the same ...school bus safety.

We all have a responsibility to help keep the kids of North Prince William County safe.  Here are the rules of the road when encountering a school bus with flashing lights:

• When the school bus is flashing Yellow Lights motorists need to slow down and prepare to stop.  The bus is either about to pick up or drop off children.

• Red Lights flashing (and extended stop arms) indicate to motorists the bus has stopped to pick up or drop off children.  Motorists must stop and remain stopped until the lights stop flashing, the extension arm is withdrawn and the bus begins moving.

• Please be aware of your surroundings as well.  A child late for the bus may run out without looking for traffic and the same goes for a child that may have dropped something after getting off the bus.

• If the school bus is stopped with flashing red lights and extended stop arm but is traveling in the opposite direction on a roadway divided by a median or barrier then the motorist does not need to stop per Virginia law.  

The next time you hear someone ask “Why SERVPRO?”  You can tell them: “Because SERVPRO cares!”  

Be safe and be prepared, add SERVPRO of North Prince William County to your contacts now:  (703) 368-4399

Fire Safety - Campfires

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of North Prince William County we pride ourselves on being a leader in fire and water damage restoration.  Our highly trained specialists are trustworthy and “faster to any size disaster.” Our “restore first” mentality helps keep the costs down and get you back into your home or business faster.

When the panic of a disaster hits you will be glad you thought ahead...put SERVPRO of North Prince William County in your phone NOW.  If disaster strikes we are here for you 24/7/365! Call SERVPRO of North Prince William County (703) 368-4399

Having said that...let’s discuss outdoor fire safety.

It’s the end of Summer.  School is starting. The temps are high and the ground and brush are most likely dry.  You have a lot on your mind while trying to soak up the last days of summer camping and outdoor fun.

My name is Anne Marie and today I’d like to share the rules of building a campfire.

First things first, make sure ahead of time that you are allowed to have a campfire where you are located.  (That would certainly put a damper on things.)

Next, check that there are no burn bans in place.  If there aren’t then observe the area for windy conditions.  Very important so things don’t get out of hand.

You are now ready to dig your pit.  Select a spot without any overhanging branches.  

Now that you have your pit, circle it with rocks and rake a 10 foot area around the pit.  Once completed there should be just dirt in this area, nothing that could catch fire should be left on this ground.

If you have extra firewood/kindling stack it upwind and away from the fire.  Don’t leave anything around that could be a tripping hazard.

Never leave a campfire unattended by an adult.

Keep a hose or a bucket of water close by at all times.  You should always have a metal shovel as well.

When you are ready to call it a night or leave the fire be sure it is extinguished.  This means douse it with water, stir it up with a shovel and dump more water on it. The fire should be cold beyond a shadow of a doubt before you leave.

Please also remember:  Only burn wood.

The above rules are not just for camping they are for the fire pit in your backyard as well.  When things are easy and convenient we sometimes become more lax with adhering to these rules.

This is a personal experience of mine.  I was visiting a friend that had a fire pit in their yard.  It was around 10 AM when I knelt down to pick something up in the area of their fire pit.  The ground was quite warm. I alerted my friend to the situation. They had used the fire pit the night before.  Upon stirring the ashes we saw that down below there were still red coals. There was a plant/weed that had very long roots that connected from plant to plant that grew in the area.  These roots had “caught fire” so to speak, there wasn’t enough oxygen for them to ignite but they were red at the pit and carried the heat just below the surface of the ground. If this had reached the woods or an uncleared area this story could’ve ended very differently.  What did they do wrong? The fire had been left cold enough instead of completely cold. So, while no one in my story needed to call SERVPRO, make sure you are prepared in case someone in your story does.

Add SERVPRO of North Prince William County (703) 368-4399 to your contacts today!

What to Expect From a Water Main Break

7/20/2017 (Permalink)

water main break

A water main break can cause lots of damage. Perhaps the worst part is that you don’t always know when it happens, which means you can be gone from the house or building for a long period of time before you realize that you have a big problem. This is because the pipes are not usually in plain sight, therefore if they fail it often goes undetected until it becomes a bigger problem. If that’s the case you could be looking at a disaster by the time you finally come back.

Water main breaks can be caused by factors such as extreme temperature, corrosion, or impact to the pipes, among other potential factors. However, even if your house, condo, or building is relatively new you should still dedicate some funds and resources to routine maintenance, and inspection for cracks, or for other potentially unsafe environmental hazards. This practice could save you thousands later on.

Those who are have experienced a water main break often have to deal with an interruption in their water service, and potentially days or weeks of being relocated as crews repair not only the pipes, but the areas of the home or office that have been affected with water damage. This is another reason having a routine maintenance inspection of plumbing system is a good idea.

At SERVPRO® of North Prince William County we are always here to help. Contact us immediately if you have experienced this, or any other type of water damage, or if you have any questions regarding such things.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County – Most Trusted Restoration Company

7/3/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Near Me

At SERVPRO of North Prince William County we pride ourselves on being not just the biggest, and most well-known restoration company in the area, but the most trusted.

The North Prince William County office is owned by Rob Wise, is a forward-thinking entrepreneur with years of experience in the home construction industry. Under his leadership area residents have received the highest quality service for everything from water damage and mold removal, to fire damage and soot removal.

Contact SERVPRO of North Prince William County now!

Our office is consistently a top performing franchise location, so in addition to benefiting from the top notch services of the corporate hub residents and businesses also receive top notch service from the one of the top performing locations in the country. That’s because we are always ready to help clean up water damage emergencies, hoarding or death scenes, smoke damaged items, and more.

Perhaps one of the reasons our company is so well trusted, is that we have the benefit of relying on different arms within the company to respond to different situations. For example, we have a Fire division that deals with only restoring items that were damaged by soot, smoke, and flames. Our employees who work there do not have to spend time responding to flooded basements or buildings because other employees are ready to respond to those emergencies.

Another attribute that area residents admire about our office is that we are able to respond day or night, at any hour, on any day. This means that if one of our customers insists on service immediately, we provide it, regardless of when it is. That puts you in control of the situation, and let’s you get back to your life at the speed and rate that you need to.

For all your home and business restoration needs, call SERVPRO of North Prince William County, and find out why we are Manassas, Manassas Park, Bristow, Lake Jackson, Gainesville, Haymarket, Yorkshire, Nokesville area’s most trusted restoration company!

Water Damage Tips For Office Buildings

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

commercial water damage

Water damage is a very significant threat both to the safety of the occupants, and to the finances of the owners, not just of residential homes, but also of commercial buildings. In North Prince William County that means plenty of medical buildings, professional buildings, and the like. In times of severe flooding or plumbing failure this damage could even stop your business from daily tasks, which means you are losing money!

In this article we go over some basic preventative and responsive measures so that hopefully you can avoid being in this situation, or if you do find yourself in this situation, at least you can get your office back to normal quickly.

Preventative Measures

In the office there are some things you can do to minimize the risk of damage due to water leaks. For example, educate your office managers on water damage preparedness. This means that your managers should know how to turn off the water, electric, and gas supply. If they don’t have access, then they should know who to call in order to have these items completed. It’s also a good idea to have some basic tools in the office so that they are readily available in the event of an emergency. Lastly, it’s important to have a list of emergency contact phone numbers for all employees, as well as local fire and police numbers, so that in the worst case the loved ones of those injured can be notified, and they can get medical attention if needed.

Response

Just as with residential structures, rapid response is critical to water damage in an office. The longer you wait before the area is restored the more of a chance you there is that you will have mold, which is another problem altogether.

The best course of action is:

1. Call a plumber to fix the source of the loss;
2. Call SERVPRO of North Prince William County to remediate the damage.

Of course, you can call your insurance first, but remember, we are also experts at the insurance side of damages as well, and can help you get the best coverage, so you may call us to work with your insurance as well.

At SERVPRO of North Prince William County we are the leaders of commercial water damage restoration. Contact us today to learn more!

Flooded Basement Service and Causes

5/23/2017 (Permalink)

Flooded basement

A flooded basement is an emergency situation that cannot be ignored for very long because it can cause major damage to the walls, floors, carpet, or even furniture. Not to mention, it can lead to mold if left untreated, that this is all fairly quickly.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County understands this. That’s why we are on-call 24/7 because you can’t wait for tomorrow when you have standing water in your house tonight.

Call our Flooded Basement team right away!

Our team can deploy technicians at any hour to remove the water from your basement, dry the carpet, repair the damage, and do whatever needs to be done in your situation, so that you can get back on with your life.

Here are some of the common sources that cause a basement to experience flooding.

There are generally only a few sources for a basement to receive water:

1. Either it is coming through the foundation in the form of rain penetrating the walls;
2. Water from over-saturated soil being pushed through the floor;
3. Storm water from the sewer system; or
4. Sanitary sewer water from a clog in your homes’ sewer line.

In the case of water seeping in from a crack in the foundation, you can know if this the cause of your water damage if the water is coming in at only one particular location, or at the exterior foundation wall.

As for the subsurface groundwater, this is when your basement acts as a boat in a pond, water will enter through any hairline crack whenever the groundwater levels ride above the level of your floor. A perimeter drain system can be used to solve this problem.

In the case of storm water from the sewer system the rainwater in the sewer system can rise to such levels that the water flows backwards toward the house. If you already have a sump pump for this reason then you either need a new one, or the alternative is to dig up and cap the pipe that is running from the house to the street.

Lastly, if the event of sanitary sewer water backing up, you will know this is your problem if the water is coming through the drains of the floor and the sinks in the basement. In this case the installation of backflow preventers will do the trick. Also, pouring tree root killer down your toilets once a year can help with prevention of such disasters.

If you have a flooded basement contact SERVPRO of North Prince William County and have our team of experts help you out today!

Insurance Claims on Water Damage

5/19/2017 (Permalink)

Insurance Claims on Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most common claims for home insurance. At SERVPRO of North Prince William County we not only repair water damage in your home, but we also specialize in dealing with insurance companies to get you covered for our services.

If you need help dealing with your home insurance company for water, fire, or mold damage call us today.

Problem Areas:

You might run into some trouble with your insurance claims for water damage in some cases. For example, if you are claiming something that was the result of gradual damage they might give you some problems. Gradual damage is anything that happened over time as opposed to an accident or sudden damage. These can be things such as a leaky ceiling that was due to plumbing defects, water damage caused by cracks in the foundation, and a lot of times mold will also fall into this category. Basically, anything that has been happening for a long time is generally not covered by home insurance.

However, there may be some exceptions to this. For example, some insurance companies allow coverage for mold remediation. For example, in the case of mold resulting from another claim that was covered under insurance, but was not properly fixed, and the mold was the result.

On the other hand if water damage is sudden and accidental you’ll probably have a much easier time getting covered for the damages. Of course everything is dependent upon the language of the policy that you purchased, but this is the very nature of insurance: coverage for sudden and accidental loss.

A good practice for homeowners is to keep record of all repairs and transactions for services that are made to your home. This will prove valuable in the event you ever make a claim. It is also worth mentioning that there are different types of water damage as far as insurance is concerned. Some cover flood, some cover sewer backup, and many times the items that are covered reflects what is commonplace for the region that you live in.

At SERVPRO of North Prince William County we are not only experts at restoring your home as if it never even happened, we are also experts at dealing with insurance companies. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you through the entire recovery process today!

What To Do About A Leaky Ceiling

5/11/2017 (Permalink)

A leaky ceiling can cause big problems

Leaky Ceilings can be costly. They can significantly damage your home or business, but also it is sometimes hard to determine the cause of them, which can delay, or even add to the expense of the repair process. That’s why the first thing you should do when you have a leaky ceiling is an inspection so that you can eliminate all the obvious non-causes.

One thing to consider is whether the leak occurs only in inclement weather. If the leak is constant, regardless of whether it is raining outside or not, then you can probably eliminate the roof as being the source of the leak. That’s because if that leak is caused by the rain, then the rain would have come from the roof through the ceiling. In this case the leak is most likely caused by a plumbing line inside the house or structure.

Another thing to consider is the water itself. Does it appear to be clear and fresh? If so, then that could be an indication of the water coming from the water supply line. That’s because if water was coming from the roof it would track a lot of dirt and substances from the roof along with it.

If you have determined that the leak is possibly from the roof, start at the top and work your way down. Be sure to take all the necessary precautions, and have all required safety gear needed for a roof inspection.

Of course, not all people are prepared for home improvements and repairs, especially when it comes to major repairs. If you have a leaky ceiling, or any kind of water damage to your home or business, give the pros a call. For more information visit our water damage services page. We’re faster to any size disaster.

Mold Remediation

4/26/2017 (Permalink)

Mold remediation in Manassas

Mold Removal in Manassas Area

 In the Manassas area, mold is a real problem for many families. That’s because it can cause irritation and allergic reactions to people in the household. Mold thrives in humid environment, and as we all know, the summer months are very humid in Northern Virginia.

What is mold?

Mold is a microscopic particle that exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to completely remove all mold from a home or business. However, it doesn’t necessarily need to be removed, nor does it become a problem until the humidity – or moisture level – increases. That’s when mold particles begin to grow in number, and form colonies. These colonies are the culprit when it comes to producing allergens and irritants for people, especially to children and people with compromised immune systems.

Another effect of excess mold is the strong odor it produces. It’s an odor that you won’t want to smell again, if you’ve ever smelled it before. If that smell is in your home, where you and your family expect to be comfortable, and to relax, you'll want to get rid of it immediately.

For this reason it is important to monitor the humidity level in your home, especially in Northern Virginia, where the humidity is present year-round, and the summer months can produce conditions in the environment that are favorable for mold growth. 

Generally, you want to keep the humidity level below 49%. This is the level at which these mold particles start to thrive and form colonies, producing the odor and causing allergic reactions in many people.

SERVPRO of North Prince William County properly inspects your home for mold, identifies the cause of the odor, and completely removes it without a trace. Give us a call for more information on our mold removal process today!

Water Damage: Causes in Manassas Park

4/19/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Manassas Park

Common Causes of Water Damage in Manassas Park

Water damage is something that every homeowner should be concerned about. It can cause thousands of dollars of damage, but more importantly, it can force the inhabitants out of the house temporarily, or even permanently.

So what are some of the most common causes of water damage in a residence? We’ve done the research, and list them out for you below, so read on to find out.

The cause of water damage we have found to be most common is broken, busted, or leaking pipes. Unfortunately, many times it is not easy to even tell that a pipe is leaking or malfunctioning in any way because the problem is out of site.

What can happen is in some cases the pipe can rust over time, or freeze over. In fact any drastic change in temperature can cause stress on the pipe, and lead to minor damage of the structure.

There are a number of ways to prevent this from happening, and a few dollars here is well worth saving thousands later. The most common way is to simply allow the water to trickle out of the tap, even if it’s at a drip, through the night on particularly cold nights. This allows the water to continue to move, and discourage freezing.

Another cause of water damage is accidents. Yes, plumbing accidents. Perhaps if you have children you know what we mean: action figures dropped in the toilet, kids overflowing the bathtub, anything like that. Simply being aware of what your child brings into the bathroom with them, and keeping an eye on their baths should help you avoid water damage in these cases.

Another very elusive cause of water damage is humidity in the basement, attic, or crawl space. These areas are dark, damp, and often times humid – especially in the Manassas area. This environment allows moisture to drip through the foundation or roof. If left unattended – over a period of time – can lead to damage to the walls ceilings, and floors of these spaces. It’s tricky to spot because this happens over such a long period of time, but simply using a dehumidifier once in a while in these areas should prevent any significant water damage to them.

There are many other causes of water damage, but these are just some of the most common. As always, if you have a case of water damage in the Northern Virginia area you can contact us at SERVPRO of North Prince William County for the fastest service in town!

Fire Extinguisher Tips

7/5/2016 (Permalink)

Fire tipes from SERVPRO

Fire extinguisher tips 

Only use a fire extinguisher if.....

*The fire is contained to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing.

*Everyone has exited the building

*The fire department has been called or is being called; and the room is not filled with smoke.