How Surface Water May Be Causing Your Flooded Basement

6/21/2023 (Permalink)

How to Protect Your Foundation and Prevent This Type of Flooding

A flooded basement can be caused by surface water flooding, meaning external water is not draining correctly away from your home. You can do a few things to help protect your foundation and prevent this type of flooding.

1. Dealing with Roofline Overflow

Overflowing and clogged gutter systems can result in significant damage. Overflow from gutters can lead to the wearing away of soil and foundational cracks. The three most common causes of gutter system overflow and basement flooding are:

• Leaf Buildup: Gutters should be cleaned a few times per year, typically at the change of seasons. When debris is left to clog the gutters, the overflow trickles down exterior walls and into your basement.
  
  
• Insufficient Downspouts: If there are not enough downspouts or an inadequate diameter, water can overflow during heavy rains.
  
  
• Inadequate Downspout Length: Downspouts should extend at least 10 feet away from your home.

2. Preventing Flooding Due to Landscape Design

If not appropriately sloped, landscaping can force surface water to settle toward the house, which, if left unchecked, will weaken the soil around your foundation and lead to cracks in basement walls, allowing water to enter. Avoid this issue by ensuring all landscaping, pathways, and driveways slope away from your home. If this is not possible, then invest in a proper drainage system around your home to carry water away from your foundation. 

3. Reducing the Risk of Storm Water Backing Up

For many older homes, city storm sewers are connected to a perimeter drain. While a sump pump can prevent the risk of water backing up, storm drains can become overwhelmed and leave your sump pump ill-equipped to handle the surge when heavy rains hit. Installing a cap on the external drain can resolve the issue and involve storm damage specialists in the East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, area.

A flooded basement is preventable by eliminating common causes of surface water flooding. Ensuring gutter systems are adequate, sloping landscaping away from your foundation, and capping off nuisance drain pipes are several ways to prevent future flooding.

Third Party Certification: Upholding Standards and Maintaining Excellence

6/21/2023 (Permalink)

Upholding Standards And Maintaining Excellence

When homes in East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, need remediation, you want to ensure that the company handling the problem adheres to the highest industry standards. The restoration industry standards are set by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC is a third-party certification organization that approves instructors and schools to teach the skills needed to meet its values of expertise, integrity, and excellence.

Expertise

Training programs such as the ones offered by SERVPRO of East Memphis are IICRC-certified. Classes are offered in various categories:

• Applied Structural Drying
• Carpet Cleaning
• Fire Restoration
• Upholstery Cleaning
• Water Restoration

Receiving a mitigation certificate after completing these courses means that the individual can do the job right. When clients hire someone to fix a problem in their homes, you want to verify that the technicians are certified, mitigation experts.

Integrity

It is not enough that technicians know what they are doing. They also need to be honest and trustworthy. When the IICRC certifies a company or individual, you know you have found someone you can trust. They adhere to a strict standard of ethics and can be expected to be upfront about their clients' homes' assessment and treatment. 

Excellence

When a certified school or instructor trains specialists, they learn how to exhibit high standards of service. Continuing education courses improve knowledge, turning technicians into industry leaders. These classes also serve to educate insurance and real estate professionals regarding various mitigation processes. Shared knowledge strengthens these partnerships so that together, they can offer more excellent service to the customers they share.

A third-party certification organization sets the industry standard that all mitigation professionals must meet. The values of the IICRC are reflected in each training program and instructor it approves. To ensure quality, professional service, recommend certified mitigation professionals to your clients.

Benefits of Our Large Loss Team

6/21/2023 (Permalink)

When an area in East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, is affected by a disaster, catastrophic loss often occurs. However, employing a restoration company that can offer a significant loss response can be useful for insurance agents and business owners.

1. Experts Are Equipped With the Right Tools

When a major disaster strikes, the aftermath can be devastating, and it's common for restoration experts to be overwhelmed with requests. Some local restoration companies may not be equipped to handle all types of disasters, and these companies may not have access to specialized tools. A restoration company with a broad reach can bring in experts the necessary tools from various locations to assist in the cleanup and restoration process. 

2. Experience to Handle Catastrophes

Whether a catastrophic loss occurs due to flooding, storm damage, or a fire, it's essential for business owners and insurance agents alike to know that the professionals restoring commercial properties are experienced. One person alone may not have the experience to respond to a major disaster. However, when numerous people assist in responding to a disaster, everyone's combined experience makes the loss response team equipped to manage many aspects of commercial property damage. 

3. Timely Reactions

When widespread damage occurs to an area, a local restoration company may not assess shortly after the disaster. Unfortunately, a slow response can cause a property to acquire more issues, such as mold growth, structural damage, etc. With a large loss response, however, professionals can quickly assess a property, and after a thorough assessment, experts can assist in preventing additional damage and can begin restoration.

A large loss response can make managing the effects of a catastrophic loss easier. A large loss response will allow various professionals from different areas to assess the damage. Experts will have the combined experience to handle multiple significant problems, and the response will likely occur quickly.

Sources of Category 3 Water

9/18/2022 (Permalink)

When floodwaters enter your East Memphis, Tennessee, home the results can be devastating. Floors, walls, and furniture can all be affected, and the humidity that develops inside the house due to standing water might create further damage, such as mold growth. Heavily contaminated water, also known as blackwater, can be especially difficult to remove. However, understanding the situation may help you form an effective plan of action for recovery.

Waterway Overflow

Long periods of rain or sudden torrential downpours can cause localized flooding. Your home may be especially prone to this problem if you live near a natural water source. These can include:

• A river
• A large creek
• Fast-moving streams

Because floodwaters can grow as they move, they can pick up various contaminants like animal feces, sewage chemicals, and toilet water. This is where Category 3 blackwater gets its nickname, as it is often dark with contaminants. 

Sewage Floods 

Outdoor flooding can cause secondary issues, such as a sewer backup in your home. When this occurs, your toilets can overflow with sewer water and waste. Since the flood often creates a contaminated water situation, you must call in a flood damage and water removal company to handle the sewage cleanup and restoration work. 

Standing Water 

Floodwater that comes from overflowing water appliances or a burst pipe in your kitchen may not start as Category 3 water. Still, the longer the water sits, the more contaminated it can become. Humidity can cause stagnant water to degrade, so calling in professionals to have it removed as soon as possible may help minimize the damage. 

Blackwater can cause severe damage to your East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, home. However, when you understand the source and have a team of flood removal experts standing by, you can often reduce the risk of mold growth and other issues that could be costly later. 

Water Restoration Professionals Know How to Dry Your Property

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Memphis is a Leader in the Storm Restoration Industry for a Reason

Harsh weather conditions like flooding, wind, and storms cause devastating damage to homes and businesses. Property damage due to water damage and flood water overwhelms many with concerns for personal safety and properties' security.

When this form of damage occurs to your home or business, the first step is to find safety, then contact a trustworthy water damage restoration company.

An immediate restoration response reduces the extent of damage done to a property. Since roof damage is likely to be accompanied by water damage—a gaping hole is a recipe for moisture and storm water to make itself at home—a quick emergency response reduces the risk for internal and structural water damage and microbial growth.

When contacted, water restoration experts will analyze the level of damage and make a judgment regarding how to begin. Professionals' main priority is to secure property before cleanup, repair, and restoration. Once a property's debris is removed from the exterior and roof repair is completed, experts move to drying and the internal cleanup of furniture, carpets, clothes, and other items. 

The Drying Process of SERVPRO of East Memphis

First, our team sets up industrial-strength drying equipment such as air movers and HEPA filtered dehumidifiers. Special care is taken to thoroughly dry the area around the original leak or cavity.

If water has seeped to the surrounding areas, special drying equipment is used. It can take 3-5 days for traditional drying. However, hard-to-dry materials, such as wood floors and crawlspaces, can make the process longer.

After the property is dry, the restoration of any damaged materials can start. Restoration is the most time-consuming part, but is very important and the bulk of returning the property to its preloss condition. We strive to make a property look, “Like it never even happened.”

We are available 24 hours for emergency response. Call us at (901) 382-0900.

Third Party Certified: Upholding IICRC Standards and Maintaining Excellence is the SERVPRO Way

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Upholding Standards And Maintaining Excellence

When homes in Tennessee, need remediation, you want to ensure that the company handling the problem adheres to the highest industry standards. The restoration industry standards are set by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC is a third-party certification organization that approves instructors and schools to teach the skills needed to meet its values of expertise, integrity, and excellence.

Expertise

Training programs such as the ones offered by SERVPRO of East Memphis are IICRC-certified. Classes are offered in any of the following categories:

• Applied Structural Drying Certification
• Carpet Cleaning Certification
• Fire Restoration Certification
• Upholstery Cleaning Certification
• Water Restoration Certification

Receiving a mitigation certificate after completing these courses means that the individual can do the job right. When clients hire someone to fix a problem in their homes, they want to verify that the technicians know what they are doing and that they are certified mitigation experts.

Integrity

It is not enough that technicians know how to do their job well—they also need to be honest and trustworthy. When the IICRC certifies a company or individual, you know you have found someone you can trust. They adhere to a strict standard of ethics and can be expected to be upfront about their clients' homes' assessment and treatment. The IICRC’s stamp of approval is a big deal, as they, “Stand at the forefront of the Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Industry,” regarding training professionals.

Excellence

When a certified school or instructor trains specialists, they learn how to exhibit high standards of service. Continuing education courses improve knowledge, turning technicians into industry leaders. These classes also serve to educate insurance and real estate professionals regarding various mitigation processes. Shared knowledge strengthens these partnerships so that together, they can offer more excellent service to the customers they share.

A third-party certification organization sets industry standards that all mitigation professionals must meet. The values of the IICRC are reflected in each training program and instructor it approves. To ensure quality, professional service, recommend certified mitigation professionals to your clients. If you have residential or commercial Smoke, Fire, Water, damage, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis, an IICRC company, for a free restoration estimate.

Clean Up Flood Damage: Call a Pro

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

Professional Flood Water Damage Cleanup

While some water damage events aren’t very predictable, flood damage from storms is comparably easier to forecast. Storm surges, torrential rain, and rising water levels cause massive water damage for those who live along the coast or in low-lying areas. Flood damage is terrible in every instance, but the good news is homeowners and business owners usually have adequate time to prepare their home and/or business for the impending water damage as best they can.

When a storm ends, and it's safe to return to a damaged property, many find the water damage in the home or business worse than they could have imagined. It sometimes seems impossible that water levels can rise so high and cause such devastating damage. In the unfortunate case that this has or will happen to you, follow the following important guidelines for safely handling flood waters and their effects.

Do Not Go Back To the Property Without Permission

Even if your curiosity wants to know how much water is in the property or the kind of water damage; never return to the property without being notified first that it's safe to return by proper authorities. Flood damage and waters can be hazardous, and it's easy to forget that there is so much more than just water on the road or in a home. 

Beware of Bacteria

Before anyone enters a home or office with water damage to begin the water cleanup process, they must know how much danger potentially awaits. The water cleanup process should begin as quickly as possible, but it cannot be done if the area is still unsafe.

1. Live electricity. Don't assume just because the power is out in the town that there's nothing to worry about. The power could come back on at any moment, which means it could cause serious bodily harm to anyone in contact with the electricity or its conductors. Make sure all electricity is turned off at its source before entering any building with standing water.
2. Danger in the water. The second danger is what might be waiting for people in the water. There could be animals like snakes or dangerous bacteria found in feces like E. Coli. Always let the local authorities do a neighborhood sweep before taking steps to prepare for the water cleanup and drying process.

Call the Pros

Restoration companies have powerful equipment designed to allow adequate drying in minimal time. Professional mitigation and restoration are imperative because any missed moisture leads to much larger problems like microbial contamination. Restoration is designed to clear out all the water in places others might not realize it is hiding. 

Call for professional restoration and mitigation rather than handling the drying process without a pro's help to remove water in a business or home. Contact SERVPRO of East Memphis for professional flood water cleanup, professional drying, and content cleaning.

SERVPRO Secures and Restores East Memphis Property Contents After a Flooding while Mitigating the Structural Damage

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Packs Out Your Business’s Items After Storm Waters Flood Your Property

The chaos and stress of post-storm flooding at your business’s property is paralyzing. With water, debris, and quite possibly severe damage to your roof, windows, doors, and siding—you need fast, reliable help. Our team of disaster remediation experts has proven strategies to help you and your family through this difficult time. 

What is a Pack-Out?

We often recommend a pack-out after flood damage. A SERVPRO pack-out is when furnishings, household or office goods, documents, and personal possessions are moved to a dry and safe space on your property or transported to our production facility to be restored. Removing the items permits our crews to clean flooded areas in your home, unimpeded; extracting water, doing demolition if and where needed. This helps technicians dry out the structure faster without the need to work around belongings.

SERVPRO uses a detailed and secure Content Claims Inventory System (CCIS) to document and track the items we move out. Lists, digital pictures, and barcoding ensure we have a complete record of the articles. We collaborate with your insurance company to make sure the efforts we make to clean, dry, and restore the pack-out inventory are covered to the extent of your contract. It is typically less expensive to restore items than to discard and replace them. We help you save time, money, and memories.

Innovative Restoration

Our production facility technicians are skilled with innovative techniques such as freeze-drying for document and picture restoration. Floodwaters can be contaminated, so we work to ensure the packed-out items receive effective disinfectant treatment. SERVPRO provides temperature and humidity-controlled smaller chambers to dry out furnishings and electronics. Be advised that modern electronics often need precise cleaning from specialty companies. We have piston-driven Esporta washing equipment to clean soft items and immersion tubs and ultrasonic equipment to loosen flood debris soiling from blinds and intricately detailed decor and other items.

SERVPRO crews secure the exterior damage with boards and tarp, moving on to extracting, containing, and disposing of the floodwaters according to local regulations. We can spray and treat soiled areas with EPA-registered disinfectants before using commercial-quality air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to ready your home for the return of the packed-out items, "Like it never even happened."

Call Us Today

SERVPRO of East Memphis awaits your call at (901) 382-0900. Contact us to evaluate your flood damage and rapid remediation of your home and a professional pack-out of floodwater-damaged items.

The Importance of Fast Water Cleanup

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

How Fast Should Water Damage be Cleaned Up?

You depend on your business to keep money flowing in, and you rely on the building where location keeps business going. However, when a pipe or supply line springs a leak, it throws a kink in your week. The time it takes for you to arrange pipe burst cleanup can make the difference between a simple and fast water cleanup or extensive and expensive water damage.

The First Few Minutes

Water damage begins with a variety of events, including:

• Pipe break
• Supply line leak
• Toilet overflow
• Adverse weather
• Foundation crack

If all you need is pipe burst cleanup or supply line repair, the first few minutes of water cleanup are crucial. If possible, turn off the source of water as quickly as possible.

The First Few Hours

The longer water sits, the more potential havoc it wreaks. Once exposed to humidity, walls can start to disintegrate, and items made of pressed wood—which often includes cheap flooring—can swell and warp. Water from burst pipes and supply lines can also damage furniture and other supplies in your workplace. 

The First Few Days

Damage that is not mitigated quickly will also become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria growth. Prolonged damage can interrupt your business’s daily operations, possibly harming your bottom line. To limit the extent of water damage to your business, call a professional in the restoration industry like SERVPRO of East Memphis. SERVPRO’s highly trained professionals are equipped with knowledge, experience and all tools capable to restore your business to its preloss condition. We know the disruption that results from supply line leaks, overflowing toilets, adverse weather, foundation cracks, pipe breaks and other catastrophes. By calling our emergency team, available 24 hours per day, you may be able to turn a potentially massive setback into an easy and fast fix. For additional information regarding commercial restoration, call us at (901) 382-0900.

SERVPRO® of East Memphis Promotes Two Longtime Employees

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of East Memphis Promotes Patrick Belcher and Chuck Tucker

Patrick Belcher was promoted from operations manager to general manager after long and faithful growth at SERVPRO Team Nicholson. 

Humble Beginnings

Patrick has been on our team since 2013. When he first started at SERVPRO Team Nicholson, he was looking to make some extra money on the weekends. A friend of his worked at SERVPRO of Montgomery County and let him know they needed extra people to help demo and clean up jobs occasionally. For the next year Patrick worked part time out of the Montgomery County Office.

Path to General Manager

In 2015, Patrick started his career. He began as a full-time production technician, then became a Crew Chief, then a Production Manager.

After 5 years, Patrick transferred to Memphis. There he was promoted twice: once to Operations Manager, then to General Manager. As the general manager, Patrick oversees daily operations. He coordinates with division managers to create an annual business plan with goals and oversees the management of the Sales, Production, Construction Services, and Office Divisions. 

When asked what he enjoys about this current role as GM, he replied, “I particularly like seeing all aspects of the business from mitigation to construction to future planning, all while being involved with each member of the team.”

When Patrick isn’t working, he is spending time traveling with his daughter to different cities and state parks, golfing and fishing—or anything that includes a body of water. He also enjoys volunteering with his Church at any of their opportunities to give back to the community.

Patrick Belcher has worked at the following SERVPRO Team Nicholson Locations:

SERVPRO of Montgomery County

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg

SERVPRO of Bartlett/Cordova

SERVPRO of Germantown/Collierville

SERVPRO of East Memphis

SERVPRO of Southeast Memphis

What an outstanding accomplishment!

Production Manager to Operations Manager

Chuck Tucker, a SERVPRO employee for over 20 years, stepped into Patrick’s former role of operations manager. Previously, Chuck had been a production manager. Now, as operations manager, Tucker is responsible for setting departmental budgets, managing daily operations, and identifying areas of improvement, all while ensuring a high quality of service in any dealings with customers, clients, subcontractors, resource providers, and company employees involved in SERVPRO services.

Chuck’s experience and loyalty is almost unmatched in Team Nicholson history. Almost—because it could be matched by his wife, Debra. After 4 years of working together at SERVPRO and 2 years of dating, Chuck married his coworker, Debra. The two continue to work together to this day and have a beautiful family together. As expected, Chuck has seen the industry change many times in the past 20 years. 

Congratulations on these achievements and continued growth! Thank you for your commitment to bettering SERVPRO Team Nicholson.

Our Employees

We pride ourselves on hiring people with a good work ethic, high integrity, and the ability to work in and adapt to tough conditions. We are continuously seeking individuals who are self-motivated, proactive, responsible, and service-oriented team players. If you are highly dependable and excited about exceeding expectations, consider joining us in our mission to help our customers in their greatest moments of need. See our available positions.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of East Memphis is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1960 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• East Memphis, TN
• University Of Memphis, TN
• Oak Court, TN
• Berclair, TN
• Grove Park, TN
• White Station, TN
• Colonial Acres, TN
• Sea Isle Park, TN

Is Your Business Prepared for a Fire?

5/22/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Preparedness Means More Than Simply Owning a Fire Extinguisher

A fire is every business owner’s nightmare. Your insurance policy will ensure you can rebuild in the event of a fire. But what about protecting your most important assets: your life and the lives of your employees? To avoid the unspeakable tragedy of losing employees in a fire, it’s necessary to build a fire escape plan.

Tips for Your Business’ Emergency Fire Plan

1. Ensure your business has the proper number of smoke alarms. In newer homes, the National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires hard-wired, interconnected smoke alarms with battery backup on every building level, outside each work area, and inside each office. If your building is older and smoke alarms are not already in place, install them on every level and outside each work area at a minimum. Test your alarms once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
   
   
2. Teach employees what smoke alarms look and sound like. If your smoke alarm has a test feature, set aside time for a training in which you or a professional teach your employees the fire escape plan and include a smoke alarm test. If it does not have a test feature, there are videos online which provide demonstrations of what smoke alarms sound and look like. Teaching employees to recognize an alarm and know the plan of action ahead of time will give employees more confidence to remain calm during the emergency.
   
   
3. Ensure everyone in the building knows two ways to escape from every room. It may not be an ideal route, but knowing a second exit from a room is advisable. It is also essential to establish a meeting spot outside the building to ensure everyone's arrival to safety. Depending on the size of the building, this may require a customized escape diagram.
   
   
4. Establish an emergency communications plan. As part of your building’s fire escape plan, make sure everyone knows who and how to contact in the event of an emergency.
   
   
5. Practice escaping from your building at least twice a year. This may seem excessive, but fire drills can save lives in the event of a real fire. Employees come and go, so frequently performing this drill makes sure all employees know what to do.

Call SERVPRO of East Memphis if your business suffers commercial fire damage at (901) 645-1285. 

Does a Remediation Company Need To Be Certified?

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

Okay, scenario: You have recently experienced a flood or other water damage and now see subsequent microbial growth. You look online for, "best mold remediation company near me," then pick the first result — or the cheapest, right?

A bad situation has been averted? Maybe not. All remediation companies aren't created equal — a costly lesson to learn if your insurance company does not cover uncertified remediation companies. When facing mold damage in your Memphis property, choosing a certified mold remediation company is your best bet. So, what does that look like?

What Is Mold Certification?

While plenty of businesses in this field have the equipment to cleanup mold, not everyone can do it well or safely. This is why the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets standards for mold remediation and certifies specific companies. An IICRC means a business meets standards involving:

• Ethics
• Technical knowledge
• Procedures
• Accountability

Choosing a certified microbial growth removal company can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Need more reasons, we have them!

Why It Matters

Not only are these standards relevant in the legal sphere, but they have practical applications to your property, too. For one, these certifications ensure accountability, as the company is compelled to maintain a standard of quality in order to keep their certification.

Secondly, acquiring the certifications also requires a high amount of knowledge, so choosing a certified company ensures you've chosen one of the best in the field.

Also, many insurance companies hesitate to cover work by an uncertified mold removal company. As an obvious result, choosing a company that your insurance covers lightens the cost load to your pocket because your insurance will likely cover the majority of the cost.

When you're looking for mold remediation, it's not time to cut corners. Look for a certified mold remediation company with the proper IICRC verifications, and you can rest easy the job will be done right the first time.

Yes, Your Open-Concept House Design is More Flammable

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Eliminates Soot and Smoke Residues After a House Fire

Your home was not intended to stop fires before they spread to other areas of the house. Most of the materials used for constructing your home are flammable and actually fuel the spread throughout the structure. Further, the “open-concept” design that has become popularized thanks to HGTV personalities is a fire-spreading hazard. Flames and smoke can quickly move throughout the home because there is less fuel to burn, i.e. less walls, doors, etc. Building designs that have individual rooms with doors are more likely to have a slower spread since the fire can be temporarily isolated by the closing of doors. In any case, if your property catches on fire, it can incur extensive damage—and fast! 

Working to clean up the mess after the incident is over is no easy task. Most often, the substantial effects that stand out are smoke and soot damages. These are common versions of fire damage in homes, and they can often prove to be challenging to remove without the right equipment. 

Fortunately, our SERVPRO fire restoration professionals have the tools and expertise to help you through often widespread soot damages throughout your household. While the most concentrated of this effect can be found around the fire's originating point, where it burned the longest, this is not always the case. This matted debris and film from the combustion leave a dark, often black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials. 

Removing this residue requires multiple approaches.

Soot Damages

Soot is most concentrated where it burned longest, but matted debris and film from the combustion leave a dark or black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials, too. Removing this residue requires multiple approaches. For wall surfaces, scrubbing with wet and dry sponges can often remove the bulk of the film. Confined spaces like ductwork require high powered vacuums. 

Smoke Damages

Smoke damage often presents itself in the form of a harsh odor lingering in fabrics, carpeting, and open spaces throughout affected areas of your house. Removal of this odor typically requires thermal fogging, a process that releases an unscented chemical compound into the environment and contents of the room to break apart odor molecules and leave no discernible scent behind. 

The Right Solution

Unfortunately, this causes a bigger mess than most people are equipped to handle. Fire damage proves to be challenging to remove without the right equipment. We always suggest hiring a professional fire cleanup and restoration expert. We may be biased, but SERVPRO is just that. We have the experience, tools, and techniques to help you through widespread fire, smoke, and soot damages. 

When you face the effects after a house fire, SERVPRO of East Memphis responds quickly to get your home back to preloss conditions, as soon as possible. Give us a call at (901) 382-0900.

Charcoal Grill Fire Safety

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips to Avoid a Barbecue Fire

Spring is upon us! The arrival of nice weather calls for grilling out with friends and family. Unfortunately, a grill fire is a real safety hazard in the right combination of circumstances. A fun get-together can turn into a disaster in a hurry. You can avoid a barbecue fire by following these tips:

1. Keep the Grill in a Safe Location 

Keep the grill outside on a level surface at least 10 feet from buildings and other flammable objects. Never grill under an overhang or in an enclosed area. Be sure to monitor it closely until it cools.

1. Keep Children and Pets at a Distance

Children and pets should stay at least three feet away from the grill. Ensure that pets on tie-downs cannot reach the grill; they can wrap their line around the grill and pull it over. It will keep them at a safe distance if a grill fire occurs. 

1. Be Mindful of Loose Clothing

Make sure that you wear appropriate attire when you grill. You can tie back everything with an apron. For added safety, use long tongs and spatulas and wear heat resistant grill gloves.

1. Use a Chimney Starter

A chimney starter is a much safer option than lighter fluid. It will also light the coals more evenly. 

1. Practice the Two-Zone Method

This simple, versatile method creates a much safer grilling experience. Put the hot charcoal on one side of the grill and leave the other side empty. If a flare-up occurs, move the food to the other side until the flame subsides, then move it back to continue cooking. The two-zone method can improve your food quality because it creates a searing side and another side for flame-free slow cooking.

Keep a fire extinguisher near. Do NOT use water; it can make a grease fire flare-up. Instead, close the grill lid until the outbreak subsides. If your house sustains fire damage or smoke damage from a grill fire, SERVPRO of East Memphis can return it to its original state.

Dry Techniques for Cleaning Fire Damaged Home

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

Our experienced and trained SERVPRO team knows that mitigating fire damage includes a variety of replacing, restoring, and cleaning techniques.

Fire Damage Cleanup Restored Using Dry Cleaning Methods

When our SERVPRO technicians work with hard surfaces, we can use water based-detergents and other wet cleaning methods. 

For porous surfaces, wet techniques could cause the soot to soak deeper into the material. Dry cleaning methods that use agitation can prove useful in these cases.

Heat can burn flammable materials inside a structure, forcing removal and replacement of those materials, but the smoke coming from the blaze can also cause soils, soot residues, and intense aromas. 

4 Types of Smoke and Soils

A professional will know to use different chemicals and techniques when removing residues left behind, based on the smoke type. In most situations, smoke and the soils it leaves behind can be classified into one of four categories of smoke and soot damage: wet, dry, protein residue, and fuel oil soot. Knowing what type of smoke was present helps the technician pick the best method to remove soot residues on the various surfaces of your building materials and contents. 

Dry Techniques for Cleaning Fire Damaged Home

Various fire residues adhere to each surface in your home differently, and we can help with it all. Some of the most effective techniques are dry techniques. Dry techniques are not suited to all material types, but they work well on materials that might otherwise be damaged from a more intense cleaning process. 

Light Agitation

SERVPRO of East Memphis conducts the dry cleaning agitation technique with softer tools such as dusters or brushes. Special vacuums are also useful when removing some soot residues and using compressed air to blow off the soot. Light agitation is used for delicate or lightly soiled items that don’t require further scrubbing.

Medium Agitation

Residues that adhere to some of your contents and building surface materials could work better in medium agitation cleaning techniques. Dry sponges are an example of a medium agitation method, and they can be useful when removing soot residues from drywall. Dusting cloths or crumbling cleaners that work like a pencil eraser are also useful.

It's What We Do

Our experienced and trained SERVPRO team knows that mitigating fire damage includes a variety of replacing, restoring, and cleaning techniques. When mitigating smoke-related problems inside your home, it is invaluable to have the necessary knowledge. For professional assistance after a fire, call SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 382-0900, 24/7. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster®.

Rug Cleaning for Fire Damaged High-Quality Carpet and Upholstery

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your high-quality carpet and upholstery investment. For professional assistance after a fire, call us at (901) 382-0900, 24/7.

Rug Cleaning for High-Quality Carpet and Upholstery After a Fire

The highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time, especially after experiencing fire damage. These pieces of functional decor can be priceless, timeless, and a large investment. Protect your investment by having your Persian rugs maintained by a professional service.

SERVPRO of East Memphis offers several cleaning options to match any type of carpet and upholstery:

• Bonnet Cleaning, a less aggressive method for short pile carpets
• Hot Water Extraction, a more in-depth cleaning method for all carpet types
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse, to restore deeply soiled areas
• Showcase Premier Cleaning, the most thorough cleaning method in the industry
• Dry Cleaning, used when color-fastness is an issue

After a fire, more than carpets and upholstery are damaged. That is why, as cleaning professionals, we have equipment to clean varieties of surfaces and materials.

Cleaning vs. Replacing

Heat can burn flammable materials inside a structure, forcing removal and replacement of those materials, but the smoke coming from the blaze can also cause soils, soot residues, and intense aromas that are easier to restore. 

Our experienced and trained SERVPRO team knows that mitigating fire damage includes a variety of replacing, restoring, and cleaning techniques. Various fire residues adhere to each surface in your home differently, and we can help with it all.

Dry Smoke

Most fires go through stages of creating both wet and dry smoke. However, usually fires will have more of one type than the other. Dry smoke is created by fast-burning, oxygen-rich burns. Dry smoke is also usually created when organic materials like wood, paper, or natural fabrics burn.

Wet Smoke

Whether a fire produces a majority of wet or dry smoke depends on the amount of oxygen present, the combustion rate, and the type of substance that is burning. When the fire is starved of oxygen and burns at a lower temperature, it produces wet smoke. Wet smoke is also created when synthetic materials such as rubber or plastic burn. Wet smoke usually adheres strongly to surfaces and is difficult to remove. 

Cleaning Techniques

When our SERVPRO technicians work with hard surfaces, we can use water based-detergents and other wet cleaning methods. However, for porous surfaces, wet techniques could cause the soot to soak deeper into the material. Dry cleaning methods that use agitation can prove useful in these cases.

Dry Cleaning: Light Agitation

SERVPRO conducts the dry cleaning agitation technique with softer tools such as dusters or brushes. Special vacuums are also useful when removing some soot residues and using compressed air to blow off the soot.

Dry Cleaning: Medium Agitation

Residues that adhere to some of your contents and building surface materials could work better in medium agitation cleaning techniques. Dry sponges are an example of a medium agitation method, and they can be useful when removing soot residues from drywall. Dusting cloths or crumbling cleaners that work like a pencil eraser are also useful.

Future Preventative Maintenance

Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. All carpet manufacturers agree on actions you can take between carpet cleanings to increase the lifespan of your carpet.

IICRC states that 79% of soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet.

Preventative maintenance actions include: 

• Regular vacuuming
• Spot removal
• Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

SERVPRO has the necessary tools, techniques and knowledge to save your rugs after fire damage. Protect your high-quality carpet and upholstery investment. For professional assistance after a fire, call us at (901) 382-0900, 24/7.

Storm Damage vs Flood Damage: What’s the Difference?

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Property owners in Memphis, TN, may have a hard time differentiating storm damage from flood damage—which is important when considering insurance coverage. Commercial properties can sustain water damage from both flood and storms, but there are a few significant differences to keep in mind that may help you manage these risks.

The most general distinction is that stormwater comes from above, whereas flood water overspills natural bodies or watercourses and covers at least two acres of ordinarily dry land.

Storm damage to a commercial property may originate from a variety of causes such as:

• High winds
• Heavy rain
• Hurricanes
• Snow
• Tornadoes

Most business insurance plans protect from storm damage. Property owners need additional coverage to offset the expenses of flood damage. If your property is located on a flood plain, you should make sure you carry the policies necessary to protect your property investment.

Flooding occurs when water overflows a body of water or watercourse such as:

• Creeks
• Dams
• Lakes
• Storm-water channels

In order for water to be considered a flood, it must cover two acres and affect at least two properties.

If a commercial property is located in a high-risk zone, and the owner has a mortgage from an insured and federally-regulated lender, they must maintain flood insurance. Risks tied to flooding and storms should be known, minimized, and dealt with as soon as possible. Regardless of a moisture source, the risk of mold and other secondary damage within a building can be looming over the aftereffects of large, disastrous water events.

Restoring Damage From Storms and Floods

Restoration specialists can help property owners determine the precise causes of damage and the best solutions. If a property in Memphis, TN, experiences flood damage or sustains damage during a storm, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 382-0900 as soon as possible.

Fire Prevention: Save Your Home and Family

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

Fire prevention can save your home and your life.

You protect your family by locking doors at night, monitoring who they spend time with and where they go. But do you consider fire prevention and preparedness tips?

As a homeowner, the thought of a fire breaking out in your house is a nightmare scenario. It puts your family’s safety at risk, and you could lose many possessions including your home itself. Avoid this frightful scenario and potentially save lives by reducing the risk of fire.

Maintain Smoke Alarms

All homes should have smoke alarms to alert you to fire danger. One or two alarm devices are not enough if you have multiple levels or a larger property. Your home should have a working smoke alarm in every bedroom and an additional alarm per floor. Maintain your smoke alarms to ensure they are effective in the unfortunate incident of a fire.

• Test your smoke alarm once per month by pressing their tester button.
• Change the batteries in your smoke alarm at least once per year.
• Never disconnect your smoke alarm.

Practice an Evacuation Plan

It is a wise idea to explain rules for safely exiting the home. Putting together a simple to understand plan for all family members is an easy way to make sure you and your family are on the same page in the event of a fire emergency.

Something as simple as identifying a meeting location outside, explaining how to open tricky windows, or showing how to remove cut window screens is a great start for teaching young children safe fire evacuation. Teaching administration of tools like the fire extinguisher and its location can prevent small kitchen fires from forming catastrophes.

Keep an Eye on the Dryer

Of major appliances, the dryer is perhaps the most significant potential culprit for starting a fire apart from countertop ovens and griddles. Check the filter and remove lint buildup after every load. Doing this also helps dry time, so it’s a win-win! We also recommend inspecting the outside vent and the hose leading from the dryer to the vent for proper ventilation. There are many YouTube tutorials that explain the ins and outs of dryers and their filters—those videos may be useful for extra, seasonal, deep cleanings.

Inspect Outlets

Being aware of electrical problems is an important fire precaution. Never overload your outlets. Also, be mindful when you use power strips, especially with computers and TVs. If an outlet looks dingy, it could be blown which indicates hidden problems. Outlet inspection is especially necessary for rental apartments or townhomes. Take precaution and call a professional electrician or property maintenance for help. We do not recommend fixing electrical problems. This is not a DIY project. 

Be Careful When You Cook

Because there are many silent heat sources in a kitchen, fire prevention is most likely and therefore most important here. Make sure your oven is clean and functioning correctly. If the oven emits an unusual amount of heat when closed and cooking, there may be problems with the seal or heating mechanism. It does not hurt to have a professional look at the appliance to ensure the temperature regulation mechanisms are working properly.

If all is functioning, it is wise to use the self-clean setting when your oven looks particularly grimey. This will heat the inside of the oven to a high temperature, burning stuck-on residue. When the self-cleaning is done, the food particles inside will be ash and can be easily wiped out. This is a simple and effective way to clean an oven. However, do not leave your oven unattended while this process is happening.

In fact, never leave any kitchen appliance unattended, especially food on the stove. A good rule of thumb is to store items off and away from the stove—you may not know when a child messes with the dials or an adult forgetfully leaves a burner on. In this age, stoves have smart locks that prevent accidental dial clicks. Regardless, putting items away ASAP as opposed to leaving them on the stove is a good, safe practice.

You can have peace of mind when you follow these fire prevention guidelines. We, at SERVPRO, want you to help prepare you. Still, accidents happen. In the event of an unfortunate situation, we offer fire damage services like Fire & Smoke Restoration, soot and odor removal and contents cleaning. If you have fire damage, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 382-0900.

The 3 Types of Smart Smoke Detectors

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

Although classic smoke detectors haven't changed much over the past few decades, they have seen a few minor upgrades.

The 3 Types of Smart Smoke Detectors

Wait…there’s more than one type of smoke detector? Yes! That old smoke detector you grew up with is outdated. Although classic smoke detectors haven't changed much over the past few decades, they have seen a few minor upgrades.

Today's homeowner often opts for smart devices for added convenience. Perhaps it's time to consider adding your smoke alarm to the list of smart devices for your home. Take a look at three primary smart smoke detector options before choosing to upgrade:

1. Smart Battery

This is the most basic type of fire safety smart device available. Smart batteries have a short list of responsibilities, only notifying you, via push notifications, when your alarm goes off or when the batteries are about to expire. Batteries typically last for about five years, so you likely won't be receiving that type of alert all too often.

2. Smart Smoke Detector

The classic smart smoke alarm is a natural step up from the smart batteries. The primary difference between these alarms and classic detectors is that smart detectors connect to your internet. This allows you to receive notifications when the batteries are low or when the alarm goes off. This device also gives you the capability to silence incoming alarms from your mobile device.

3. Listener

If you're reluctant to replace your entire alarm, you can always opt for a listening device. These gadgets are intended to listen for alarms and alert you when one goes off. They're ideal if you have several alarms in your house and only want to install one device per floor, as opposed to replacing the smoke detectors in every room.

Replacing your smoke alarm with a smart device can help you stay vigilant. You can have the added ease of being able to deactivate alarms using your smartphone, and you won't have to put up with annoying low battery chirps. Contact fire remediation experts, like the local fire department, before you attempt to tamper with the alarms in your home.

Benefits of Large Loss For Your Commercial Business

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

Large Loss Restoration of Your Commercial Property

Large Loss Restoration of Your Commercial Property

When a property is affected by a disaster, catastrophic loss occurs. Whether the large, commercial property sustains water, fire, or storm damage, there will be many different moving parts involved to restore the business to its preloss condition. Employing a restoration company that offers significant loss response can be useful for insurance agents and business owners alike. A professional like SERVPRO of East Memphis will be able to make the process run smoothly since we work with the insurance directly and handle all parts of most large loss jobs in-house.

Our services include water extraction, board-up services, HEPA filtration, mold remediation, fire cleanup, contents cleaning, odor removal, biohazard cleanup, construction, and much more.

1. Experts Are Equipped With the Right Tools

When a major disaster strikes a large geographic area, it's common for restoration experts to be overwhelmed with requests and phone calls. Some local restoration companies may not be equipped to handle all types of disasters or at a large scale, and these companies may not have access to specialized tools.

A restoration company with a broad reach and the resources of 18 other locations, can bring in experts with the necessary tools to assist in the cleanup and restoration process of even the biggest and most complex jobs.

2. Experience to Handle Catastrophes

Whether a catastrophic loss occurs due to flooding, storm damage, or a fire, it's essential for business owners and insurance agents alike to know that the professionals restoring commercial properties are experienced. One person alone may not have the experience to respond to a major disaster. However, when numerous people assist in responding to a disaster, everyone's combined experience makes the loss response team equipped to manage many aspects of commercial property damage. 

3. Timely Reactions

When widespread damage occurs to an area, other local restoration companies may not assess quickly enough to be a real help. Unfortunately, a slow response can cause a property to acquire more issues, such as mold growth and structural damage. With our 24 hour emergency response, however, professionals can quickly assess a property, and take next steps. After a thorough assessment, experts can begin restoration. So, the faster the professional gets to the jobsite, the faster your commercial property can be restored to its preloss condition.

There is a reason SERVPRO has ranked number one in the industry for over 20 years. We stand with our work because we really are “here to help.”

SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Profile Helps Prepare Your Company for Emergencies

We want to help your business to be ready for the damaging effects of fire, water, and storm. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate action plan.

Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage affects your business. 

The Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a tablet and phone application that allows you to take photographs of important safety and emergency features in your business. Each photograph will have a written explanation of how to turn off the different utility systems. One of our SERVPRO employees will walk you through your business’s safety features and help you establish a plan in preparation for an emergency. Remember Murphy’s law—If anything can go wrong, it will. So, we want to make sure you are not caught unawares. 

For additional information regarding SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 382-0900.

How to Protect My Business from Utility Room Fire or Electrical Fire?

5/1/2022 (Permalink)

A business is affected in a uniquely difficult way when the business suffers fire damage. The damage leads to loss, but it destroys the infrastructure for recovering that loss. For example, when a restaurant’s utility room or electrical system catches fire and burns a facility, the income the owners could have made to pay for that loss is uprooted, having a chilling effect on a commercial property. 

This highlights the importance of buying the right insurance.

In an effort against fire loss, most buildings have measures to protect the property from utility room fire or electrical fire loss. A fire sprinkler system is one of the strategies that play an essential role in fire suppression. 

A Sprinkler System’s Job

This system has sensors that detect a change in room temperature. If the temperature reaches a critical level, the alarm turns on, the valves open, and water jets are sprinkled in the rooms. The fire sprinkler system is the first line of defense against fire before the arrival of backup, like firefighters.

You’ll Need More Than a Sprinkler System

The fire sprinkler system alone may not curb utility room fire or electrical fire outbreak from spreading. If no secondary response team comes quickly to help the sprinkler system, the fire can easily consume the building. Calling 911 should be the first thing you do after exiting the building.

Did You Think About Water Damage?

After the fire, the reality of what transpired inside becomes clear. Apart from the fire damage, there is soot damage, water damage, and visible smoke damage. The fire hose pressure can destroy contents and walls, too.

This devastating scene can only be properly rectified by professionals who are familiar with commercial fire damage restoration.

Professionals Know What To Do

Hiring professionals for fire restoration gives peace of mind. Professional commercial fire damage services like SERVPRO® take a record of the items destroyed and remaining. SERVPRO of East Memphis repairs and cleans content that can be salvaged. They wrap and store those items and appropriately dispose of the rest. They also find out where data backups could be salvaged, such as the computer hard drives. 

The soot damage, water damage, and smoke damage are some of the things that must be cleaned fastest to restore the interior. Soot damage is cleaned using a dry brush. Water is drained and vacuumed from the rooms. This drying prevents mold from growing. The smoke is pulled from upholstery and other areas that could have absorbed odor. After the main cleaning is done and our construction team has rebuilt any remaining damage, items that underwent repair are brought back. 

We are Here to Help® when you need us. When fire and water take control of your life, we help you take it back.

Protect Your Home Against Wind Damage

5/1/2022 (Permalink)

When storms hit anywhere in the United States, SERVPRO of East Memphis scale our resources to handle even the largest storm or flooding disaster.

Wind Damage from Different Types of Storms

While thunderstorms are the most common source of wind and storm damage, winds from hurricanes or tornadoes are more severe and may be more costly. Still, thunderstorms are responsible for a lot of damage, like lightning, hail, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding.

Either way, billions of dollars are spent on wind damage repair and storm damage restoration each year. While understanding the nature of wind damage can’t stop them from happening, it can help you limit the amount of damage to your property and save on restoration and repair costs.

What You Need to Know

Flying Debris is a Damage Risk

Flying debris can cause more damage than strong winds themselves. Damage can result from plants or other unsecured structures and objects. If a storm is approaching your area, make sure any potential debris in your homes such as patio furniture, toys, garbage cans are either secured or brought inside. Bonus tip: For severe weather, secure your doors and windows, too.

A Well-Designed Roofing System Does Wonders

Apply roof deck, shingles, or membrane over the decking. A well-designed roofing system will anchor the trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the structure in a strong wind. Roofing material should latch to the deck.

The construction phase of building a structure is the most influential piece in reducing damage caused by storms. Loosely connected shingles will lift from the deck, so fasten that siding down. Building codes will likely direct the minimum standards for connections. You, your architect, or your contractor may decide to exceed these minimums for a stronger storm-resistant structure.

Monitor and Maintain Your Trees.

Falling trees and tree limbs are another significant type of damage to structures in a windstorm. Maintain your trees by removing dead limbs. In addition, remove the entire tree if it is dead. Healthy trees should have strong enough roots to withstand fairly strong winds, but dead trees will not.

Mitigating Damage After a Storm

What happens after the storm? 

First, close any openings as soon as possible. Roof openings and broken windows are the most common source of water damage in these situations. Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that cuts to size and nail it over the opening. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of an emergency close-up, if needed, so contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

If the damage is too much to handle on your own, contact a restoration professional as soon as you can to help limit and repair damage and respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Faster Response

SERVPRO of East Memphis specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quickly to your area with the right resources. This is extremely important because a fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Resources to Scale Up for Large Disasters

When storms hit anywhere in the United States, our SERVPRO team can scale our resources to handle even the largest storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1900 franchises across the country as well as our elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

How Can SERVPRO of East Memphis Help with Hazardous Waste?

5/1/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of East Memphis anytime for our biohazard removal services.

SERVPRO of East Memphis Cleans Hazardous Waste

Although SERVPRO is well-known for fire and water restoration, you may not know that we offer hazardous waste disposal. Our highly-trained professionals can help you or your business with biohazard, vandalism, and crime scene cleanup.

We specialize in removing and cleaning common hazardous wastes such as bloodborne pathogens, sewage backups, illegal drugs, hoarding situations, crime scene residues, and more.

We are trained to safely decontaminate these situations in accordance with OSHA and CDC regulations. Our sanitizing agents, antimicrobial treatments, thermal foggers, and deodorization agents help us make your property, “Like it never even happened.” 

When you experience a biohazard concern or have hazardous waste on your property, leave the responsibility of hard cleanup to us. Bloodborne pathogens, bodily fluids, and other contaminated waste can put you at risk. Follow these steps after contamination. 

• Call SERVPRO of East Memphis immediately at (901) 754-9061 for biohazard cleanup. 
• Stay out of infected areas. 
• Call first responders if the situation is life-threatening. 
• Treat all areas and/or bodily fluids as if they are contaminated. 
• Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage. 

These situations can leave home and business owners feeling vulnerable, violated, and unsafe. Call us anytime for our biohazard removal services.

Storm Restoration Experts Know How to Dry Your Property

5/1/2022 (Permalink)

For additional information regarding storm damage, visit our service page or blog. We are available 24 hours for emergency response. Call us today.

SERVPRO of East Memphis are Leaders in the Storm Restoration Industry for a Reason

Harsh weather conditions like flooding, wind, and storms cause devastating damage to homes and businesses. Property damage due to storm damage and flood water overwhelms many with concerns for personal safety and properties' security.

When this form of damage occurs to your home or business, the first step is to find safety then contact a trustworthy storm damage restoration company.

An immediate restoration response reduces the extent of damage done to a property. Since roof damage is likely to be accompanied by water damage—a gaping hole is a recipe for moisture and storm water to make itself at home—a quick emergency response reduces the risk for internal and structural water damage and microbial growth.

When contacted, storm restoration experts will analyze the level of damage and make a judgment regarding how to begin. Professionals' main priority is to secure property before cleanup, repair, and restoration. Once a property's debris is removed from the exterior and roof repair is completed, experts move to drying and the internal cleanup of furniture, carpets, clothes, and other items. 

The Drying Process of SERVPRO of East Memphis

Oozing groundwater, especially in places prone to flooding, could cause damage, especially if no flood pump has been previously installed. SERVPRO of East Memphis has a thorough drying process.

First, our team sets up industrial-strength drying equipment such as air movers and HEPA filtered dehumidifiers. Special care is taken to thoroughly dry the area around the original leak or cavity.

If water has seeped to the surrounding areas, special drying equipment is used. It can take 3-5 days for traditional drying. However, hard-to-dry materials, such as wood floors and crawlspaces, can make the process longer.

After the property is dry, the restoration of any damaged materials can start. Restoration is the most time-consuming part, but is very important and the bulk of returning the property to its preloss condition. We strive to make a property look, “Like it never even happened.”

For additional information regarding storm damage, visit our service page or blog. We are available 24 hours for emergency response. Call us at (901) 754-9061.

What Is The IIRC? What Does It Mean For Me?

4/24/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business suffered water, storm, or fire damage, call us for 24 hours emergency service or for a free estimate.

What Is An IICRC Certification? Why Does It Matter?

The IICRC is the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification, a non-profit organization for the Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Industries.

When considering who to call for water damage, do you go with the company your insurance company recommends? How about your neighbor’s recommendation? In the internet age of information-overload and bias, how can you know what’s right? Who really does the best job? Who does the most work for the money? Who handles a water loss job from start to finish? SERVPRO is proud to be your one-stop-shop for disaster relief after a fire, flood, or storm—but don’t take our word for it—let us show you.

Your local SERVPRO of East Memphis is proudly an IICRC accredited firm.

What is an IICRC Certification?

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

All IICRC Certified Firms must:  

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

When it comes to cleaning, restoration and inspection, the IICRC writes the books. As an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Standards Developing Organization (SDO), the IICRC has paved the way in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, upholstery and fabric cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation.  

Each IICRC standard takes years to develop and the coordination of several experts in the field, including:

1. allied trades persons
2. manufacturers
3. international, national and regional trade associations
4. individual or franchise professionals
5. cleaning, inspection and restoration industry organizations
6. insurance industry
7. training schools
8. contractors and public health professionals

These standards are reviewed and updated at least every five years. Many of these fields, such as the water damage restoration field, change rapidly and those who are certified keep up with the advancement of the science and generally accepted practices of the industry.

We don’t take this stamp of approval lightly—we uphold it. If your home or business suffered water, storm, or fire damage, call us for 24 hours emergency service or for a free estimate.

What Is Cat 3 Water Loss? What About Cat 1 and Cat 2?

4/24/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage Categories

They are classified as follows:

• Category 1 damage, also known as “white water” (clean water)
• Category 2 damage, also known as “gray water” (clean water that sat for a while)
• Category 3 damage, which is known as “black water” (usually from flood water)

Category 3 water is not only contaminated, but it can also cause damage to your home. Professionally trained technicians can, fortunately, help you clean and decontaminate the building and items after a Cat 3 water incident.

Cleaning Procedures

When facing water damage caused by a contaminated liquid, your safest plan usually involves contacting a local restoration company. Professionals are trained to arrive quickly, assess damage accurately, and work safely and efficiently to clean, restore and construct your property.

After the assessment, the following cleaning steps typically occur:

1. Removal of water
2. Humidity reduction and drying of wet surfaces
3. Sanitation and cleaning of damaged areas
4. Remediation of damaged property through deep cleaning and reconstruction

The professional you choose may also offer digitization services for wet financial documents or photographs that need to be preserved. Additionally, trained technicians on the scene may have suggestions for a preservation method or a long-term storage situation for items that are priceless and irreplaceable, yet not entirely salvageable.

Being Prepared

Help us help you persevere in the face of such a nightmare. SERVPRO of East Memphis is a local professional in the cleaning, restoration, and construction industry. Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. For a free estimate, call us today.

Does My Carpet Need to Be Replaced? Professional Water Extraction and Cleaning

4/17/2022 (Permalink)

Professional Water Extraction and Cleaning

If a pipe breaks, a tub overflows, or dishwasher leaks water can spread quickly throughout your home. Moisture from one of these instances can soak into the carpet, damaging the porous fibers.

What does water do to a carpet?

If the water saturates the carpet, padding will disintegrate, and glues will weaken, causing the backing to peel away from the fibers. The moisture also causes microbes to develop on the surface of the subfloor. Water will ruin the whole carpet if left too long, so how long is too long? How would a person know if a carpet is salvageable or not?

The answer depends on a few factors. A professional restoration company will examine the cause of water damage and determine if the water is Category 1, 2, or 3. These categories describe the levels of toxicity of the water. Flood water and sewage water are seen as unsafe and are categorized differently than tap water overflowing from a sink or bathtub.

A professional will also lift the different layers for cleaning and drying. The carpet padding will likely be thrown out, no matter how long it’s been sitting, because it is relatively inexpensive to replace. This saves a lot of time, effort, and money cleaning a potential breeding ground for microbial growth. 

In general, many carpets can be restored by technicians without needing replacement—even when water seeps deep into the fibers. If the water type and severity of damage poses a health risk, though, a professional will know to rip out the carpet and replace it.

Water Extraction

After technicians inspect the danger and its source, lift layers, and remove pieces, they will extract water from the carpet fibers using specialized equipment. This equipment pulls the water up through a vacuum and sends it to a tank. Heavy-duty weighted extraction tools will be used for highly saturated carpets. Weighted extraction tools use the operator's weight to compress the carpet, allowing more moisture to be extracted.

Drying

After water extraction, a professional will set up drying equipment. Air movers—SERVPRO’s name for industrial, high-powered, blower fans—push air in a circular motion speeding up the evaporation process. Dehumidifiers are simultaneously set up to pull moisture out of the environment and lower the property’s relative humidity.

Finally, a professional will disinfect the carpet. For additional information, call our office today at (901) 754-9061!

The 3 Types of Smart Smoke Detectors

4/17/2022 (Permalink)

Although classic smoke detectors haven't changed much over the past few decades, they have seen a few minor upgrades.

The 3 Types of Smart Smoke Detectors

Wait…there’s more than one type of smoke detector? Yes! That old smoke detector you grew up with is outdated. Although classic smoke detectors haven't changed much over the past few decades, they have seen a few minor upgrades.

Today's homeowner often opts for smart devices for added convenience. Perhaps it's time to consider adding your smoke alarm to the list of smart devices for your home. Take a look at three primary smart smoke detector options before choosing to upgrade:

1. Smart Battery

This is the most basic type of fire safety smart device available. Smart batteries have a short list of responsibilities, only notifying you, via push notifications, when your alarm goes off or when the batteries are about to expire. Batteries typically last for about five years, so you likely won't be receiving that type of alert all too often.

2. Smart Smoke Detector

The classic smart smoke alarm is a natural step up from the smart batteries. The primary difference between these alarms and classic detectors is that smart detectors connect to your internet. This allows you to receive notifications when the batteries are low or when the alarm goes off. This device also gives you the capability to silence incoming alarms from your mobile device.

3. Listener

If you're reluctant to replace your entire alarm, you can always opt for a listening device. These gadgets are intended to listen for alarms and alert you when one goes off. They're ideal if you have several alarms in your house and only want to install one device per floor, as opposed to replacing the smoke detectors in every room.

Replacing your smoke alarm with a smart device can help you stay vigilant. You can have the added ease of being able to deactivate alarms using your smartphone, and you won't have to put up with annoying low battery chirps. Contact fire remediation experts, like the local fire department, before you attempt to tamper with the alarms in your home.

Microbial Growth Removal in Crawl Space

4/17/2022 (Permalink)

Microbial Growth Removal in Crawl Space

Microbial damage is likely to develop in a crawl space when the area becomes wet. When a professional technician performs an inspection in a crawl space, we check for visible water leaks and invisible moisture particles in the air. We do this because it is unproductive to disinfect molds without addressing its primary cause—the mold is sure to come back if the source of moisture is still hanging around. 

Why Might a Home’s Crawl Space Have Mold?

If your home's crawl space has grading and drainage issues, mold can develop where the water collects under the house. Our SERVPRO technicians use pumps to extract water if it pools. If moisture is evaporating into the crawl space from the surrounding walls and the ground, we isolate the area. To isolate the area, we use a space liner to encapsulate the area. This enclosure acts as a vapor barrier and works well to prevent microbial growth when paired with a permanent dehumidifier in the crawl space. 

Basic science demonstrates that differences in temperature between surfaces and water particles cause condensation. The same is true for your crawl space. If the surrounding areas and the crawl space have differing temperatures, the water vapor condenses. We usually resolve condensation issues by using or installing a dehumidifier. The device assists in monitoring and controlling humidity to discourage conditions favorable to microbial growth. 

What If the Microbial Growth is Deep in the Insulation?

A professional in the microbial remediation industry will be able to examine the crawl space for signs of deeper mold infestation. However, it is not always easy to see. Sometimes, portions of enclosed spaces must be cut to see if microbial growth has infested your home’s insulation. When a professional certifies there is growth, then further microbial removal services can begin. SERVPRO has the tools and knowledge to remove and dispose of damaged insulation safely.

Not everything can be restored, but, as surprising as it sounds, it is possible to restore fiberglass insulation! It's also possible to remove surface mold, called mildew, from below supporting joists and beams and other hard surfaces. We also remove surface mold from porous items such as drywall—as long as the fungus has not penetrated too deeply with anchoring hyphae. 

SERVPRO of East Memphis uses industry-proven techniques to protect your property from further damage after facing any size disaster. You can access our 24-hour emergency services by calling (901) 754-9061.

Sewage Backup Causes and What You Can Do

4/17/2022 (Permalink)

Homeowners and business owners in Memphis, TN, can often contend with slow drains, poor water pressure, or blocked pipes. If these problems sound familiar, you've probably used household solutions to overcome them. For more serious concerns, like a backed-up sewer or significant blockage in your plumbing lines, you may need more professional help with sewage cleaning.

Common Causes of Plumbing Issues

Even small plumbing problems can frustrate you, so it is helpful to know how these start. Once you know the root of the concern, you can develop a game plan to solve it. Here are a few:

• Buildup in pipes from sediment, human waste, hair, and food, causing a clogged pipe. 
• Faulty appliances
• Cold weather freezing pipes, causing them to burst

Overflowing Toilets

You can face a toilet overflow at home due to a few causes. Sometimes, you may even see this happen when you turn on the water in the shower. This indicates blockage somewhere between the toilet and the sewer. Water will back up in the waste lines and exit the first place it can: the toilet. Repairing this could be as simple as using a plunger. If that is ineffective, you could try using a sewer snake tool. You might have to call a plumber if the job gets too big. If you don't resolve this overflow, you could face significant damage and should proceed to hire a professional sewer cleaning crew. 

When your Sewage System Backs Up

If the main sewer line into your home or business backs up, you'll notice it pretty quickly because of the foul odor. Luckily, if the blockage is under the street and not on your property, your local water and sewer company should take care of it. 

If sewage water enters your home, we recommend treating the situation as an emergency and immediately calling a sewage cleanup company, like SERVPRO. Sewage water is considered Category 3 water, which can cause severe health problems and should be avoided. Our team has the protection and knowledge to safely clean up and restore your home or business after Category 3 water damage. We respond immediately, giving you peace of mind and reducing your stress during a sewage overflow. 

The prospect of sewage cleaning can be scary. Pay attention to common plumbing issues and how you can spot and repair them. If you experience a water leak emergency, call SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061. We are here to help 24/7! 

What You Need to Know About Mold

4/10/2022 (Permalink)

While mold is invisible to the naked eye, it plays a vital role in the environment by causing the breakdown, or decomposition, of dead organic matter. However, when mold makes its way to the indoor environment, it can cause health effects. Moisture creates a favorable environment for mildew to thrive, resulting in extensive mold damage; typically, where there's moisture, there's mold. 

Mold Thrives in Humidity

Since mold thrives in humidity, small leaks and damp surfaces are prime real estate for rapid development of mold and mildew. Mold spreads swiftly due to the lightweight nature of its spores, which allows them to be transported easily by airflow. Therefore, it has great potential to contaminate a vast area.

Can I See Mold?

Mold damage in a property can be detected by visual inspection, particularly on open surfaces. However, mold growth can begin where it is unseen—like inside ducts and crawl spaces or behind tiles, paneling, and wallpaper, making it hard to detect. Common signs of imminent mold issues include warping walls, blistering paint, crumbling plaster, deep cracks in the tiles, and gaps in grout. If the floor or the walls have stains or feel wet and soft to the touch, mold testing and removal should be done as soon as possible. Additionally, a smelly odor in a well-maintained home is another signal for hidden mold growth.

What About Dormant Mold?

After discovering the moisture source and drying out the area, the mold may seem to vanish. However, failure to remove the mold spores in their entirety only makes the fungus dormant, and it is capable of reactivating upon the occurrence of favorable conditions which include:

• Ideal Temperature
• Organic Material
• Moisture

Even dormant mold can produce a smelly odor and cause health effects.

Can There be Mold in Newly-Built Homes?

Newly constructed homes are not exempt from fungus infestations and subsequent mold damage. Especially when the materials used to build a property were either inappropriately stored in humid surroundings or they were rained on. If not fully dried, such materials hold moisture internally, which can facilitate mold growth and cause a smelly odor.

Okay, So How Do I Get Rid of Mold?

During the first stages before mold damage escalates, a do-it-yourself (DIY) method can be helpful to eliminate the smell while preventing further development. It's advisable only to use fungicides and deodorization sprays that are registered under EPA, which should be done after the definite elimination of the sources of moisture. However, in most cases, DIY methods will only provide a temporary solution and could even spread the mold if not careful, necessitating an expert in mold removal and mitigation.

Professional mold remediation is especially necessary when:

• The fungus has found its way into the HVAC system or other materials that are generally out of reach
• The fungus affects a large area
• The homeowner lacks the appropriate tools to eradicate mold
• The homeowner has exhausted DIY mold removal and remediation methods

SERVPRO’s Professional, Efficient Mold Removal and Mitigation Method

Specialists in mold removal and mitigation possess experience and proper equipment for efficient and permanent fungus removal from homes and business premises. Mildew can go unnoticed and therefore establish itself all over. Attempting to get rid of mold damage without professional assistance could prove tough. Efficient mold remediation and mitigation go a long way in reversing the destruction caused by mold. For additional information regarding mold remediation, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Why Hire a Professional to Remove Microbial Growth?

4/10/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth can cause damage to your home. Mildew, humidity, and warmth are some of the factors that give rise to mold fungus. A daily hot water shower makes the bathroom one of the spaces most susceptible to mold growth, but it’s not the only space that needs attention.

Can a Newly-Built Home Have Mold?

Mold damage needs a very short amount of time to grow—as little as 24 hours, and it isn't limited to homes of average or low value. If you bought a new home or had one built recently, you can take steps to suppress mold growth. But if you bought an older home or one with a history of damage, you might have a problem you don't know about.

The Best Way to Deal with Microbial Growth

The best way to deal with mold is to call a professional mold removal, remediation, and restoration company. These are people qualified to deal with black mold and other kinds of fungus. A 3rd party will come out and conduct an in-depth assessment of your home. They will determine how much black mold and mold fungus is in the house and the extent to which it has spread. Then, a microbial mitigation team will clean the affected area.

Mold Cleanup Protection

Mold cleanup presents certain risks. Fortunately, the cleanup process does not have to be overwhelming as long as you wear the proper safety gear, including:

• Face mask
• Gloves
• Full body protective coveralls
• Safety glasses

The day work is scheduled to start, the first thing professionals will do is put on special suits for protection. Then they will seal the affected areas off and apply negative pressure which prevents black mold spores and mold fungus from escaping into other parts of the house.

Once professionals have removed the mold, the specialists will put the mold into containers to take it off the premises. They will then use a special vacuum to remove all of the spores particles from the air.

While cleaning up mold damage is possible on your own, it may be better to seek a mold remediation specialist. These professionals provide both expertise and the necessary equipment to ensure that you, your employees, and your clients or tenants remain healthy and happy.

Still, here are some simple things you can attempt to mitigate mold damage.

Repair Leaks or Cause of Moisture 

When the source of moisture is removed, the potential for new mold growth lessens.

Scrub Hard Surfaces

While anything contaminated with black mold is better discarded, other mold types can be scrubbed from hard surfaces. A durable scrub brush, a mixture of detergent and water, and several clean rags to throw away after drying the surface are the tools to complete this job.

Discard Porous Materials

It may be tempting to keep expensive, porous items, like rugs and furniture, but it is not wise. Mold seeps into these surfaces, making it difficult to clean the material thoroughly. Additionally, as it is nearly impossible to clean mold from these materials, they constantly threaten continued mold contamination.

A mold removal, remediation, and restoration company is the way to ensure the mold is eliminated, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis for additional information.

Tips to Clean Water Damaged Items

4/10/2022 (Permalink)

Remove Items from the Water

This sounds simple, and it can be! First, take any contaminated items out of standing water. Wearing the appropriate gear, such as goggles, gloves, rubber boots, and protective clothing, gently move items to an area where they can start to dry out. Clean the debris off as much as you can without grinding dirt into porous items. If possible, keep affected belongings indoors, as the sun and other outdoor elements can cause even more harm than help.

Reduce Humidity

While items are air drying, it's essential to reduce the home's humidity. Talk to the professionals handling the water in the home about the best way to increase airflow. They may recommend opening windows or bringing in industrial dehumidifiers to help your items dry and prevent mold growth.

Trust the Professionals

When you hire mitigation experts, they do more than fix broken pipes and replace walls. They can be a sounding board for your concerns and answer any questions you have. Their experience allows them to advise on the best method for recovering your items, whether dry cleaning or gamma irradiation. Trusting their guidance is the path to restoring your home to its former state as soon as possible.

Water in the home may be daunting, but it doesn't have to be devastating. Preserve your precious memories and other items in your home by following these tips and. Contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061 for additional information.

3 Things to Know About Drain Cleaners Before Using

4/10/2022 (Permalink)

When a clogged drain stops water from flowing through your home's plumbing, you may reach for one of several drain cleaners you have handy. These products are adept at handling small sink or toilet clogs and can help water drain smoothly. However, before you use these liquids, SERVPRO of East Memphis wants you to know where they can be used and when they might do more harm than good.

Drain Cleaners May Damage Older Pipes

Using a drain cleaner to clear a clog may harm your pipes if you have an older home. These liquids can contain several caustic ingredients designed to dissolve hair and waste, and the heat they create once introduced in the line can warp older metal pipes. If this happens, your plumbing problems may multiply instead of resolve.

Drain Cleaners May Not Remove Clogs

While some drain cleaners effectively clear a clogged drain or bathroom sink, they don't always work on large toilet clogs. Suppose the chemicals are unable to deal with the mass. In this scenario, the product can remain in the pipes and sometimes cause warping or other damage, leading to a massive toilet overflow and the need for a sewage cleaning and removal company. If a drain cleaning product doesn't produce results within 24 hours, it may be wise to call a plumber.

Drain Cleaners May Be Hazardous

Clearing a drain with a liquid cleaner can be convenient, but these products could pose a threat to you, your pets, or wildlife. They sometimes contain toxic ingredients that can be harmful when inhaled and have the potential to harm the local environment if they find their way into natural water sources. As such, it's essential to handle these products carefully.

Before reaching for a liquid drain cleaner, it's essential to know the cleaner's facts and its use. Read and follow the directions carefully on the containers to keep your home and family safe.

Space Heater Safety and Fire Prevention Tips

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Stay safe when using a space heater and remember, all heaters need space.

Cold temperatures inevitably make us want to cozy up under a blanket and crank up the heat, but before you bring the space heater up from the basement to get extra toasty, consider these safety and fire prevention tips. According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is the leading cause of all house fires. 

Space Heater Safety First! 

SERVPRO of East Memphis has compiled some space heater safety and fire prevention tips to help you stay warm, but most of all, to keep you and your home or office safe from fire damage. 

• Keep 3 feet of distance between your space heater and anything that can burn, including people!
• Never plug your space heater into a power strip; always plug it directly into the wall. 
• Turn off and unplug the heater whenever you leave the room, especially when leaving for the day or going to bed. 
• Always place your heater on a flat surface, away from foot traffic. 
• Educate your family and coworkers about the dangers of space heaters.
• Keep the heater away from wet areas. This includes bathrooms, basements, and even wet hands and materials. 

Buy the Right Heater 

• Check to see if your heater has a seal marking that it’s been tested by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory. 
• Purchase a space heater that is suitable for the size of the room you would like to heat. Use small heaters for small spaces, and large heaters only for big, open spaces. Using a small heater in a large space will cause the heater to overwork and reduce its lifespan.
• Know your heater’s wattage. Higher wattage = higher energy output. Low wattage = less energy. 
• Choose a heater with an automatic shut-off that engages if the heater is knocked over or overheats. 
• Know about the different types of space heaters: oil or water-filled radiator heaters, fan-forced heaters, ceramic heaters, and infrared heaters. 

Using these space heater safety and fire prevention tips will help prevent fire damage in the home and workplace. If you have any questions about fire prevention or if your property experiences smoke or fire damage to your home, call your local professionals at SERVPRO of East Memphis for assistance. We’re available 24/7 at (901) 754-9061. 

Remedy Sprinkler Water Damage from Commercial Business Fire

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Memphis Remedies Sprinkler Water Damage from Commercial Business Fires

A fire in a commercial business is devastating. Not only is the structural integrity of your building potentially compromised, but employees are out of work and your customers are not being served. 

And when you add additional damages from the sprinkler systems kicking on, the fire and water commercial damages compound quickly. A lot of companies cannot afford to close for a day, and SERVPRO of East Memphis understands this.

That is why we offer 24/7 commercial damage services to get commercial businesses back on their feet in as little time as possible.

For Example:

If a fire burns through a building and activates the sprinkler system, there is now both fire and water damage. This is often the case with fires since flames are smothered with water—and that water can be just as damaging or more damaging than the fire. 

We are a one-stop-shop.

Since SERVPRO has the knowledge, equipment, and staff to treat fire and water damages simultaneously, our commercial services reduce the cost that businesses pay because they don't need to look for multiple companies to take care of the different types of damages. SERVPRO even acts as a liaison between insurance companies and clients which makes working with us that much easier.

Unfortunately, disasters are not preventable, but companies like SERVPRO are there to make fire and water disasters “Like it never even happened,” with residential and commercial services. For questions regarding SERVPRO of East Memphis commercial services, contact us at (901) 754-9061.

Career Opportunities at SERVPRO

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Interested in being a part of the SERVPRO family? Apply today!

With 17 franchises in 6 locations throughout TN, FL, and TX, SERVPRO Team Nicholson is an exciting, diverse, innovative place to work. We foster positive company culture, offer competitive compensation packages, and prioritize community involvement. Come find out what it takes to be a part of our team! 

Our mission is to be a proud, laser-focused team holding each other accountable while creating positive opportunities for our people and becoming the most efficiently run organization in the markets we serve. We value honesty, reliability, relationships, trustworthiness, and authenticity! Our team develops and provides solutions; we are go-getters and carry a “bring it” attitude to our work environment. We listen and value each other’s thoughts and ideas and strive to bring them to life. We are built on hard work, transparency, good business, and integrity. We believe “You can’t go wrong doing the right thing.” 

Bill Repsel, our Regional Administrator, shared his testimony on what it's like working for SERVPRO. He said "Every day is a new day. It is an opportunity to serve others in our community in a time of need. We have an incredible team of people with great talent that strives to make a difference every day." 

SERVPRO of East Memphis is proud of the work we do and is always looking for like-minded people interested in a rewarding career. Please submit your resume to recruiting@SERVPROclarksville.com, stop by our office at 6755 Whitten Pl, Memphis, TN. from 8:00 am-5:00 pm Monday-Friday or click here to check out our current job openings.

Flood Damage and Rapid Response

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

If dealing with flood damage or any other type of water damage, rapid response is crucial. The reality is that water damages are limiting when the mitigation process starts. SERVPRO of East Memphis offers emergency response, quick response time, and services 24/7. Water damage mitigation services provide immediate estimates and can commence work on flood damage cleanup and restoration immediately. When selecting a water restoration and cleanup service, the property owner needs to choose a company that utilizes the latest technology. Also, the property owner must ensure that a provider selects a damage incident. The more damage, the higher the long-term and permanent consequences will be.

For additional information on commercial water damage, contact us at (901) 754-9061 or visit our commercial services page.

Experienced Mitigation Technicians

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

We're the professionals in the industry. Call today!

The single most important thing that any property owner who notices water in their business may lead to water damage is to call SERVPRO of East Memphis, a specialized fire and water damage restoration company. SERVPRO of East Memphis has powerful and sophisticated equipment at its disposal. Our equipment, designed specifically, is used for flood damage restoration and mitigation. Ensuring quality work, we have trained and experienced staff, with countless hours between them, we can successfully carry out water damage restoration and mitigation.

It is for these reasons that a professional restoration company should be your first call. Any time flood damage occurs, time is always the most crucial factor. Waiting too long to begin the restoration and mitigation process of a flooded home or business will all but ensure that the water in the property will cause permanent damage. Worst case scenario, this damage could result in the total loss of the property's value.

Luckily, a set process that's in place has proven results over decades, and every restoration company is knowledgeable of it. Following these established water cleanup protocols is the best way to minimize damage to a flooded home or business. For additional information regarding our services, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Commercial Fire Damage Assessment

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

When the crew of SERVPRO of East Memphis arrives at your Memphis, Tennessee, property, they will begin the assessment of the damage caused as they await the fire truck to finish handling the fire. Smoke damage and soot damage occur when water is present in the building. A firefighter can make a successful fire restoration process. In collaboration with a fire restoration expert, they can do intensive fire damage, smoke, and soot damage assessment of the commercial property.

Sealing and Cleanup 

The company will start by looking for ways to stop the smoke damage and soot damage from worsening. Additionally, they will seal all busted pipes and holes in the roof and walls. Commercial fire damage companies will remove all items with massive soot damage from the property for disposal.

The next process is to remove all stagnant water after the firefighters have left the property. The process ends by using a flood pump and dehumidifier to extract all the water. After extracting the water, cleaning starts, removing soot from items and surfaces and fumigating the room to remove the odor. If carpets are salvageable, they will be professionally clean.

For fire-related questions, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Fire Damage Restoration for Commercial Properties

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Memphis can handle commercial fire damage. Call today!

After such a tragedy as a fire, buildings should utilize fire suppression mechanisms, such as a smoke sensor. Modern technology has made it possible for an installed fire sprinkler system to go off when the sensor goes off. Commercial properties should install a fire hose, fire sprinkler system, smoke sensor on strategic areas in the property, and at least one fire hose per floor.

It is dangerous to handle an electrical fire with water; a firefighter can come in acknowledging the best options for managing an electrical fire or utility room fire. Most fires get crazy due to human error. A study conducted by commercial fire restoration experts shows that many suffer severe fire damage since the fire suppression systems in place, such as the fire sprinkler system and the fire hose, didn't have any water in them. This can cause a bigger burden on the fire truck.

After the entire process is over, consult the fire department on avoiding an electrical fire or utility room fire. This can include advanced fire suppression instruments, for example, extra fire extinguishers and fire hoses. After the company is through, it is good to consult with the restoration experts and firefighters on the best fire sprinkler system, utility room fire, smoke damage, and avoid an electrical fire that's damaging.

For fire-related questions, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Understanding the Fire Damage Restoration Process

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire tragedy such as an electrical fire or a utility room fire, there's confusion among the afflicted parties, and it is hard to figure what to expect. In such a scenario, a professional commercial fire damage specialist can ensure that the building occupants get back to their normal lives. Every afflicted party must begin the process. Most people take a long time to start the fire restoration after the fire truck has left the premises. This causes soot damage to take a toll on the building and its contents further after firefighters have completed the fire suppression process.

Emergency Fire Damage Contacts

Any fire damage restoration company understands that the longer it takes to begin the fire restoration process, the harder it becomes to rectify soot and smoke damage. Most commercial building managers have emergency contacts for a firetruck.

Commercial fire damage experts and companies have emergency contacts, and they operate 24/7. They are prompt in their response, and property owners and managers must save their contacts.

For information regarding SERVPRO of East Memphis fire damage restoration process call (901) 754-9061.

Containing the Costs of Fire Damage Restoration

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

When faced with a fire, you have several crucial issues that need to address in your Memphis, Tennessee, property. Underpinning issues is the matter of undertaking fire damage restoration cost-effectively. There're key tactics you can employ when it comes to addressing fire damage in a cost-effective manner.

Select a Comprehensive Restoration Company 

An essential step to take when containing fire damage restoration costs is gathering information regarding restoration companies that provide comprehensive services. You need a restoration company after a fire that provides a range of services. When dealing with residential and commercial fire damage remediation, a comprehensive master plan for addressing fire damage is crucial in containing overall costs.

Quick Recovery Response

Another factor with the cost associated with fire damage is a quick response from the company. The reality is that fire damage is best addressed, and associated costs are best contained when a professional restoration company can provide a rapid response. Look for fire damage restoration services that can provide an immediate response to a residential or commercial damage situation. A quick response must include proper board-up. This allows minimization and protection of the property.

Reliable Cost Estimate 

Accurate, reliable, and thorough estimates are also fundamental factors when determining cost. You need to select a company that will provide an accurate, reliable estimate. Keep in mind that some fire cleanup and remediation services will guarantee estimates to a fire remediation matter. With a proper estimate, available insurance can allocate more effectively in the overall process of undertaking thorough remediation of residential and commercial fire damage.

Experienced Specialists 

Another cost factor is if the company has a professional team of experienced specialists. The company must have specialists trained in all aspects of post-fire remediation. This includes dealing with board-up and fire cleanup to complete smoke, soot, and odor removal. Also, specialists of the company should be licensed, bonded, and insured. Consider these elements when determining the cost of a company to deal with your property's fire remediation.

Best Equipment 

Lastly, a company using the right, most up-to-date techniques and equipment for tasks dealing with fire remediation plays a primary role in the effectiveness and cost. When hiring a company, you need to obtain basic information on the equipment they use throughout the remediation process. Also, you need to examine the types of chemicals and related methods used in the remediation process.

These factors help determine the overall costs associated with fire remediation. For fire-related questions, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Steps to Take After a Fire Destroys Your Home

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of East Memphis today!

Saying a home suffered from water damage after a fire sounds crazy; however, think of the number of water firefighters use to put out a fire. Sadly, in addition to having to deal with fire damage, homeowners must also contend with damage caused by the fire hose. If you've experienced a house fire and are unsure where to begin your remediation efforts, consider the following tips from your Memphis, Tennessee, SERVPRO of East Memphis fire restoration specialist.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Immediately after a fire has destroyed your home, reach out to your insurance provider to see what, if any, of the damage the company will cover. If your policy does cover fire damage, an agent can help you fill out forms and file your claim to speed up the time it takes to recover the compensation you need for the restoration.

Call a Fire Restoration Team 

While it may be tempting to clean up and repair your home yourself, doing so can be extremely dangerous. Fire damage, combined with water damage, has likely made your home's structure weak. Additionally, you never know what objects may still be smoldering, and if you attempt to move objects, you risk getting second-or third-degree burns.

Clean Up Debris

Once hired, a fire restoration team will begin the slow but steady cleanup process. They will first remove all debris and items that are not salvageable and then move whatever items are salvageable to a safe area outside of the home to dry. Water extraction tools can be used to remove water from the carpet, floorboards, walls, and any damaged materials—doors, floorboards, window casings, etc.—will be removed.

Restore Your Home

When the home is clean and dry, your fire restoration team can get to work restoring your home to pre-fire conditions. Doing so may take time and considerable effort; however, with SERVPRO of East Memphis, it won't be long before you're back in your home. Water and fire damage often go hand in hand.

If your Memphis, Tennessee, property experienced fire damage, turn to your local disaster remediation team for help today! For additional information, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Overcoming Residential Fire Damage

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

A fire can happen anywhere in Memphis, Tennessee, and it's important to know what to do next after the fire is out. Professional fire damage restoration encompasses many aspects. Knowing what's involving and how to receive help is key to overcoming residential or commercial fire damage.

Board-Up

Board-up is the first step of fire damage restoration. While there will be a restoration company working, the crew won't be there all day. Without boarded windows and doors, people can trespass on the property.

Tools & Techniques 

One of the top reasons to call a restoration company is because they have tools and techniques to help with the various aspects of residential and commercial fire damage, including fire cleanup, smoke odor, smoke damage, and soot damage. Contacting a restoration company ensures that homeowners or business owners can focus on other aspects, not fire damage.

Document Residential and Commercial Fire Damage

An insurance agency often handles fire damage. For insurance to cover a claim, the fire damage needs to be identified. Cleanups can't begin until after photos are taken. The restoration company can document what happened after a fire in a home or business. In other instances, an adjuster comes to record the smoke damage, soot damage, and everything else before the fire cleanup takes place. Owners who have had a fire in a business or home should be ready to file a claim. By working with professionals, they can learn the proper procedures. It will make it easier to get everything done, including removing the lingering smoke odor.

Fire Damage Addressed Quickly 

Cleaning up the damages should be done quickly; smoke damage makes it hard to breathe. Soot damage might lead to permanent interior damage. There might be issues with building stability because of weakened structures. By working with a restoration company immediately following a fire, it's possible to work on smoke damage, soot damage, and the smoke odor without having to worry about long-term damage. Every home and business owner should know what will happen in case of a fire. It's not just calling emergency services to get a fire truck out. A mess occurs when a sprinkler system or fire extinguishers are used. Depending on the fire situation, there might be water, foam, powder, or other elements covering everything. As such, this needs to be cleaned up before it's possible to identify the full level of damage.

It's impossible to do everything on one's own. This is why you should contact a restoration company that specializes in fire damage. They ensure owners get the help they need every step of the way without waiting for an extended amount of time. For additional information contact, SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Fire Damage Restoration

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Memphis is here to help!

Immediately after a fire, you should contact SERVPRO of East Memphis, fire damage specialists. Below are steps to help get you started getting your home back to normal and the fire damage restoration process.

Step 1

Contact a restoration company immediately; the sooner, the better.

Step 2

Assess the extent of the damage to your property. Many times, the soot, water, and smoke damage is more extensive than visually apparent.

Step 3

Prevent damage from getting worse by using tarps, plastic sheets, sealing services, and industrial fans. You need to keep ash and soot contained and dry any areas suffering from water damage.

Step 4

Start the cleanup process. Professionals have the chemicals and equipment necessary to remove soot, ash, smoke, and water. Smoke cleaning requires special equipment and devices.

Step 5

Repair and renovate any parts of your home that received extensive fire damage. You may need new walls or flooring or to rebuild entire rooms.

Smoke Damage

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

After you've experienced a fire at your Memphis, Tennessee, property, you need to act fast and contact fire damage specialists.

The longer you allow smoke and odors to linger, the deeper they soak into walls, furniture, and carpets. You should ventilate your house as quickly as possible and turn off your heating and air and replace the air filters. Additionally, your HVAC system could make the problem worse by spreading smoke, soot, and ashes throughout your home. Heavily damaged items may need disposal. Consider throwing away food items that weren't sealed in airtight containers that came in contact with smoke damage.

Don't let a fire ruin your life. The devastation can be disheartening. React quickly. The faster you start the smoke cleaning process, the less extensive the damage will be. Contact SERVPRO of East Memphis today at (901) 754-9061.

Apartment Fires: Responsibility Versus Ownership

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

An apartment fire in Memphis, Tennessee, can create many victims in the community, leaving tenants scavenging for salvageable items and wondering how they'll rectify the situation. Fire damage for residential owners is straightforward, but it can get confusing when it comes to investment properties and renters.

Who is Responsible During a Fire?

1. Structure 

The property owner is likely responsible for the structure, meaning tenants don't need to worry about rebuilding their dwellings. Unfortunately, restoration work can take a while, which means that renters are responsible for finding another place to live.

2. Electrical and Plumbing

An apartment fire can cause significant damage to the electrical and plumbing systems; the responsibility is on the owner. As the property owner, both the structure and the habitability of that structure are their responsibility. However, this may be troubling if discovered that the fire was intentional or due to renter negligence.

3. Personal Property

The property owner isn't responsible for a tenant's personal belongings. Most renters will have or should have renter's insurance, which should cover personal property loss. These policies will either cover the cost to replace the items or the true value of the items.

4. Restoration

The property is the responsibility of the owner; the restoration expense is their responsibility. Their insurance policy should cover the cost to hire a disaster restoration specialist in the Memphis, Tennessee, area. However, this does depend on whether the fire is an accident, neglect, or criminal intent. While it's difficult to understand which covers fire expenses, it results in ownership. The property owner or landlord is responsible for the building, and the renter is responsible for their personal property. Remember, it does depend on the cause of the fire and whether it's criminal or accidental.

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Have you ever felt unprepared when confronted with fire damage or water damage on your commercial property? Maybe, caused by a broken pipe that continued to flow for hours because nobody knew where the shutoff location was.

We want to help your business located in Memphis, Tennessee, be ready for the damaging effects of fire and water. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate action plan. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. The Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a tablet and phone application that allows you to take photographs of shutoff locations for water, gas, and fire suppression systems.

Each photograph can have a written explanation of how to turn off the different utility systems. We hope that your commercial property won't have damaged during a loss and get back into the business. For additional information regarding SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Storm Restoration Experts

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Memphis is here to help!

When contacted, storm restoration experts need to visit your home or business in East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, to assess and analyze the level of damage that has occurred. These professionals' main priority is to secure your property before attending to cleanup, repair, and restoration needs. Once the property's debris has been removed from the exterior and the roof repair is completed, experts can move to the internal cleanup of furniture, carpets, clothes, and other items that needs cleaning. Oozing groundwater, especially in places prone to flooding, could cause storm damage, especially if river flooding occurs and no flood pump has been constructed.

When choosing a restoration company, you should consider their reliability in minimizing the damage that occurs to your home or business after a storm. The company should attend to your psychological needs like shelter, clothing, and food before proceeding with the needed storm remediation.

For additional information regarding our services, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Water Restoration After Storm Damage

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration services are needed when water damage was caused by floodwater, roof leak, ice damage, oozing of groundwater, leaking or bursting of frozen pipes, and ice dam bursting. Professional water restoration companies come up with various storm remediation services to ensure successful home restoration tasks. During the restoration process, the company will concentrate on storm damages such as roof damage that may cause a roof leak resulting in roof repair. Hail damage and wind damage may, for instance, cause roof damage also.

Ice damming is also problematic in cold environments that form ice dams that can burst at any moment, causing ice damage to your property. When frozen pipes burst, they may cause flooding resulting in the need for cleaning floodwater before any damages occur. On the other hand, river flooding can be minimized through the construction of a flood pump that helps in the water restoration process when conducting home restoration exercises.

Ice damage, hail damage, hurricane damage, ice damming (forming ice dam), groundwater bursting, wind damage, and floodwater occur naturally. As a result, wind damage can also be resolved through storm damage remediation. Hurricane damage is widespread, and its impact may be overwhelming. These damages may result in roof damage that calls for roof repairs to avoid a roof leak. For additional information regarding water damage restoration, visit our service page or contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

The Drying Process Used by SERVPRO of East Memphis

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Memphis has the equipment to repair your Tennessee home.

The first step in the drying process used by SERVPRO of East Memphis is for our team to set up industrial-strength drying equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers. Special care is taken to thoroughly dry the area around the original pipe break or supply line break. If water has seeped around the supply line break or a pipe break, special drying equipment is used to ensure the moisture is removed. The drying process can take 3-5 days for traditional drying. However, hard-to-dry materials, such as wood floors and crawlspaces, can make the process longer. After the property is dry, the restoration of any damaged materials can start. Restoration is the most time-consuming.

For information regarding our water restoration process, visit our service page. For additional questions, please contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Professional Storm Damage Restoration

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Harsh weather conditions like flooding, wind, and storms can cause devastating damage to your home or business. Property damage due to storm damage or flood water is one of the most overwhelming issues regarding property safety and security. When this form of damage occurs to your home or business, your first step is to contact a storm damage restoration company that you trust will conduct proper storm damage restoration.

Immediate response for storm restoration reduces the impact that occurs on your property. It is worth noting that roof damage may be accompanied by water damage; hence the quicker your response, the less risk for the floor, walls, and property to seep up with water. Additionally, a fast response will help reduce cases of mold growth that may cause decay.

For additional information regarding storm damage, visit our service page or contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

6 Tips to Help During Storm Restoration

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Memphis is ready all day everyday!

Storm damage can damage your home in many ways. Hurricane damage, wind damage, ice damage, hail damage, and water damage can affect your home. Here are tips to help you get roof leaks, ice damming, floodwater, river flooding, flooding, or rising groundwater under control and complete storm remediation.

1. Allow Expert to Create a Water Restoration Plan

Depending on the damage that resulted in your home will determine the restoration plan undertaken. Whether it is ice damage, hurricane damage, wind damage, hail damage, roof damage, or water damage, it will affect the method of storm restoration. Most storm damage occurs concurrently. For instance, heavy rain, hail, and lightning can cause hail damage, flooding, and water damage. A water restoration plan needs to aim for timely storm remediation. The plan outlines roof repairs for roof leaks on roof damage, repair frozen pipes, and how to remedy ice dams and ice damming. The restoration plan determines whether you require flood pumps for water restoration and remove groundwater, river flooding, and floodwater.

2. Identify and Prepare for Climatic Conditions

Environmental and climatic conditions often change. You might experience flooding, river flooding, excess groundwater, and ice dams, causing storm damage and water damage throughout the year. Depending on the time of year, you'll experience different environmental conditions. During the summer, you likely to encounter hail damage, hurricane damage, and roof damage on your home that will cause a roof leak. In the winter, prepare for ice dams, frozen pipes, ice damming, and ice damage. River flooding, floodwater, and flooding can occur at any time, depending on the rainfall amount.

3. Focus on the Storm Remediation

Storm remediation focuses on putting hail damage, ice damage, floodwater, or groundwater under control and minimizing further wind damage or hurricane damage. Start home restoration immediately. Use flood pumps to control and remove floodwater, mend frozen pipes, and repair roofs after roof damage. Wind damage, hurricane, storm damage, and ice damage are unavoidable and unpredictable. How you deal with the damage affects the home restoration plan. Call professionals who will use flood pumps and other specialized equipment to facilitate rapid storm restoration.

4. Contact Your Insurance Agent

Check if your insurance agent covers property damage from ice dams, floods, excess groundwater, and river flooding. You should also document roof repairs, repaired frozen pipes, and ice damage on your property using photos. Be sure to call the insurance company before commencing any roof repairs.

5. Explore Appropriate Water Restoration Techniques

Employ appropriate restoration techniques to achieve proper storm remediation. Professional storm restoration experts have the expertise, method, and equipment, such as flood pumps, to deal with groundwater, floodwater, and river flooding. Identify salvageable items and those soaked in water: address ice dams, roof leakage, and roof damage on your home. Work with a trusted expert who can identify ice damming and mitigate the future occurrence of roof leaks and roof damage.

6. Repair the Storm Damage to Achieve Restoration

Reaching out to storm restoration experts who understand hail damage, roof repairs, and the mitigation of flooding and wind damage will timely restore your home. Flood pumps will efficiently deal with water in your house. You require roof repairs and roof tarps. Remove the damaged items and document them. Dry and clean the house. The storm restoration expert has specialized equipment to remove odor in your home. Renovate and paint your walls. Rebuild the roof and install a new carpet.

Every storm damage is different, but working with a home restoration expert will facilitate and ease storm restoration. Take note of various climatic conditions and take measures to help prepare to prevent damage. Focusing on home restoration and storm remediation is essential. Following a few tips such as an appropriate restoration plan and techniques and contacting your insurance company will enhance complete renovation. The expert will make a recovery easy and cost-efficient.

For additional information regarding storm damage, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Water Cleanup Process after a Flood

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

t is crucial to remember that a property owner can take the most critical step whenever they have noticed floodwater in their business or home is to call in the professionals immediately. A water cleanup team will typically dispatch to the home when a call is made, arriving within 30-minutes on average.

When on the scene, the company will immediately start assessing the water in the business or home. They will classify the water according to its health hazard risk and moving quickly to stanch any existing leaks emanating from pipe breaks or supply line breaks. Additionally, the team will carefully examine the area around the original pipe break or supply line break, noting if any water has seeped into unseen or hard-to-reach places. Once the damage to the flooded home or business has been assessed, the team will begin the water removal process. The company will remove the water by using heavy-duty extracting equipment. Removing the water should take a few minutes, as the equipment used can extract thousands of gallons of water per hour.

For additional information regarding storm damage, visit our service page or contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Flushing Away Your Water Heater Woes

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Attention East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, homeowners: your toilet is not the only appliance that needs flushing! The water heater is a commonly neglected home utility. When showers run hot, the average homeowner doesn't consider the necessary maintenance. However, being proactive and performing a yearly water heater flush can help you avoid costly repairs and extend the appliance's life. Here are five easy steps to get the job done.

1. Shut it Down

If the unit runs on gas, extinguish the pilot light by turning the gas off. If the heater is electric, cut the power to the unit by switching off the corresponding circuit in the home's breaker box.

2. Follow Your Hose

With work gloves on, attach a heavy-duty garden hose to the heater's drain valve and run the remaining hose line out of the house. Warm water and sediment will evacuate the hose, so choose the hose end location carefully.

3. Let it Flow

Drain the water heater tank by opening the drain valve and releasing the water. After a few minutes, run hot water from the kitchen faucet to expedite the draining process. Next, turn off the water supply valve until the draining slows to a stop. Open the water supply valve once more to complete a thorough flush, then close it again.

4. Fill it Up

Ensure the drain valves are closed and turn the water supply on to refill the tank. The open kitchen faucet will begin trickling and sputtering water slowly as the air bubbles are purged from the tank. Once a full stream of water is flowing, the tank is full.

5. Restore Power

Turn on the unit's power and heating element. Do not execute this step until the tank is full or heater damage may occur. Lastly, turn off the kitchen faucet.

Considering how simple it is to complete this often-overlooked maintenance task, performing it yearly can avoid a water heater malfunction resulting in a flooded home and the need for water damage repair.

Effective Cleanup Procedures for Wet Wood Floors

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Do you have wood floors in your East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, property? This material can add a nice touch to your home or business. These floors are durable and easy to maintain. However, some things can pose harm to a wood floor, specifically water. If a water leak occurs or a large quantity of water dumps onto your floors, it's crucial to clean and dry it quickly. If you don't act appropriately, you may have to replace the flooring.

Potential Problems

You shouldn't worry if someone at work spills water on the ground or tracks in a little bit of moisture from outside. You will be concerned if a pipe burst occurs and expels several gallons or more on the floor. Other problematic situations include:

• Leaks in pipes that slowly but consistently drip water onto the floor
• Sewer backups or overflowing toilets
• Water leaking from the ceiling unto the floor

Remove Wet Items

If you notice wet flooring with a significant amount of water, make sure you immediately get any wet materials off the ground. This may include furniture, boxes, chairs, or desks. These items will only continue to put more water on the floor.

Extract the Water

You can remove small or moderate amounts of water from the floor with a mop or cloth. However, if there's a pipe burst and you find inches of water, you need heavy-duty equipment such as a wet vacuum to soak up the water thoroughly. It would be best if you did this as soon as possible to save your wood floor and keep mold from growing.

Dry Completely

Removing the water isn't enough; you need to dry the affected area thoroughly. A professional water removal specialist can do this with industrial-strength fans.

If a pipe burst or another incident leaves water on your floor's wood surface, don't wait until the next day to clean it up. Follow these tips and save yourself time and hassle! Contact SERVPRO of East Memphis today at (901) 754-9061.

Insurance Coverage After a Pipe Break

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Memphis is here to help!

If your insurance company approves your water damage claim, they'll usually do something about it and any other floor coverings affected. If the broken pipe released sewage, you should settle for nothing less than a complete replacement. If the water damage is from freshwater, expect them to do no more than have it restored.

Other Factors May Come Into Play

If it was new and in perfect condition at the time of the break, and if the water were spotless, the decision would to restore. There may, however, be other issues to consider.

• If the water from the break was clean, contaminated by something else after leaving the pipe, these contaminants might render the carpet unusable and require its replacement.
• It could have been a valuable Persian rug, for example. As a valuable item, it should have been listed separately on the insurance policy. If it was not, you might have trouble getting compensated. If the insurance company accepts the claim, the preferred method by all parties would probably be restoration.
• Before the damage, it was old and in poor condition. The insurance company might balk at replacing this. They might, however, pay to have it restored.
• Due to the break, it has developed a mold problem. At this point, it might be cheaper to replace it than to restore it.

A Broken Pipe Usually Affects More Than Just Floor Coverings

The chances are that your water problem goes beyond the carpet. There is a water damage remediation specialist in East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, that can take on the entire job, including the floor coverings. They can get started before mold has a chance to become a problem.

A Pipe Break is Never Welcome in Your Home

Nothing lasts forever. When pipes break, it's good to have local restoration specialists for the cleanup and insurance policies to pay for it.

Consider SERVPRO of East Memphis today, available 24/7, call at (901) 754-9061.

How Water Damage Can Affect Your Home

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Have water damage in your Memphis home? Call SERVPRO of East Memphis today!

If your East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee home has experienced flooding, you may be wondering what types of damage you may be facing. From anything from swelling wood to possible mold growth, here are some things you to know how water damage can affect your home.

Possible Ways Your Home Can be Damaged

Water damage can be caused in several ways:

• A broken supply line can lead to flooding in your yard and home.
• Storm damage can lead to a leaky roof.
• Pipes can freeze and break in cold weather.
• A sewer backup can lead to flooding.

Long Term Damages

If left unattended, water can lead to long-term damage, which can cause problems for your home and even lead to the denial of an insurance claim. Sitting water can lead to swelling wood on the floors or walls, which can cause structural warping. Standing water also provides prime habitat for mold growth. In basement areas, water can seep into the foundation leading to potential cracking. You can prevent these problems by cleaning up flooding as quickly as possible.

What You Can Do

The first step is to get any flooding cleaned up quickly and start the water pipe repair process. Once the water is gone and any breaks or leaks fixed, you can begin to assess the damage. A water damage restoration service may be able to help you with this step. When looking over the damaged areas, check for mold or rot to take the appropriate steps during the repairs.

Water damage can lead to swelling wood, foundation cracks, and even mold growth if left unchecked. This is why it’s important to quickly conduct any repairs necessary whenever you have water problems in your home. If desired, a professional can help with the cleanup and restoration process; consider SERVPRO of East Memphis today.

The Hidden Costs of Leaks

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

You get your water bill for your commercial property in East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, and you can't believe the number you see. Large spikes in utility bills are often the first sign property owners notice that they have a water leak. Whether the leak is interior or exterior on the property, it will need to be fixed. If not fixed, or over time you may lose thousands of dollars due to heftier water bills.

Inside the Building

With pipes running throughout your building, a leak will likely happen at some point. Some of the most common interior leaks include:

• Leaky toilet caused by a faulty flapper in the tank

• Leaky faucet caused by a defective washer or loose handle

• Pipe break in the walls

• Loose or broken supply line

If you have a water leak inside your building, it drives up your water bill and can also cause significant water damage or even a mold problem if it goes undetected. Then you will have the added cost of water remediation services to add to the list.

Outside the Building

You may have even less control over what goes on outside your building. If your irrigation system is leaking, you may not know it until you get that high bill if you do not conduct routine checks. If the lateral line to your meter is cracked, it can affect the area around your foundation. Look for unusually wet places on the lawn, near your meter, or suspicious pooling of water anywhere on your property. If you find such space during your inspections, contact professional remediation experts to find and fix it.

A water leak can cost you a lot of money if it goes undetected. Protect your business from high bills and water damage by conducting regular inspections and having leaks fixed before becoming a big problem.

For additional information, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Sources of Category 3 Water

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

When floodwaters enter your East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, home, the results can be devastating. Floors, walls, and furniture can all be affected, and the humidity that develops inside the house due to standing water might create further damage, such as mold growth. Heavily contaminated water, also known as blackwater, can be especially difficult to remove. However, understanding the situation may help you form an effective plan of action for recovery.

Waterway Overflow

Long periods of rain or sudden torrential downpours can cause localized flooding. Your home may be especially prone to this problem if you live near a natural water source. These can include:

• A river
• A large creek
• Fast-moving streams

Because floodwaters can grow as they move, they can pick up various contaminants like animal feces, sewage chemicals, and toilet water. This is where Category 3 blackwater gets its nickname, as it is often dark with contaminants. 

Sewage Floods 

Outdoor flooding can cause secondary issues, such as a sewer backup in your home. When this occurs, your toilets can overflow with sewer water and waste. Since the flood often creates a contaminated water situation, you must call in a flood damage and water removal company to handle the sewage cleanup and restoration work. 

Standing Water 

Floodwater that comes from overflowing water appliances or a burst pipe in your kitchen may not start as Category 3 water. Still, the longer the water sits, the more contaminated it can become. Humidity can cause stagnant water to degrade, so calling in professionals to have it removed as soon as possible may help minimize the damage. 

Blackwater can cause severe damage to your East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, home. However, when you understand the source and have a team of flood removal experts standing by, you can often reduce the risk of mold growth and other issues that could be costly later. 

Does a Remediation Company Need To Be Certified?

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

We have the expertise to restore your home!

You experience a flood and subsequent mold damage, you look online, and you pick the first - or the cheapest - remediation company you can find. The situation averted, right? All remediation companies aren't created equal - a lesson that can be costly if your insurance company fails to cover work by an uncertified remediation company. There're good reasons when you face mold damage in your East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, business, to get a certified mold remediation company is your best choice.

What is Mold Certification?

While plenty of businesses can get the equipment to do mold cleanup, not everyone can do it well or safely. This is why the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets standards for mold remediation and certifies specific companies. An IICRC means a business meets standards involving:

• Ethics
• Technical knowledge
• Procedures
• Accountability

Choosing a certified mold cleanup company is not a must, but it's a plus that can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Why it Matters

The above might not seem that important to a consumer, but these standards have practical applications in your home. For one, certification ensures accountability, as the company is compelled to maintain a standard of quality to keep their certification.

Getting the certification also requires a high amount of knowledge, so choosing a certified company ensures you've chosen one of the best in the field. Moreover, many insurance companies hesitate to cover work by an uncertified mold removal company. Choosing a certified company can lighten the cost load of mold removal, as your insurance will likely cover it.

When you're looking for mold remediation, it's not time to cut corners. Look for a certified mold remediation company with the proper IICRC verifications, and you can rest easy the job will be done right the first time.

SERVPRO Experts Cna Handle Mold

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Black Mold Cleanup

Mold cleanup can be scary, especially if you are dealing with black mold, presenting certain risks. Fortunately, the cleanup process does not have to be overwhelming as long as you wear the proper safety gear, including:

• Face mask
• Gloves
• Full body protective coveralls
• Safety glasses

As long as you are taking your safety seriously and do not rush the cleanup, which could potentially release mold spores into the air, you may be able to clean out your building safely.

1. Repair Leaks

As a moisture problem is the likely culprit of mold growth, you will want to find and repair any leak feeding the issue. Generally, the leak will be close to the majority of the mold growth. You can usually follow the spread of mold to its source. If it is a leaky pipe, you will want to turn off the water supply before moving forward with the repair.

2. Scrub Hard Surfaces

While anything contaminated with black mold is better discarded, other mold types can be scrubbed from hard surfaces. All that is needed is a durable scrub brush, a mixture of detergent and water, and several clean rags thrown away after drying the surface.

3. Discard Porous Materials

It may be tempting to keep porous items, like rugs and furniture, but it is not wise. Mold seeps into these surfaces, making it difficult to clean the material thoroughly. Additionally, as it is nearly impossible to clean mold from these materials, they constantly threaten continued mold contamination.

4. Ask a Professional

While cleaning up mold damage is possible on your own, it may be better to seek a mold remediation specialist in the East Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, area. These professionals provide both expertise and the necessary equipment to ensure that you, your employees, and your clients or tenants remain healthy and happy.

Cleaning out excessive mold growth, especially black mold, can be a massive undertaking. If you are up to the task, then protect yourself and follow the tips above, but also know that there is no shame in hiring a professional.