4 Tips For a Smoother Flood Claim

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Damaged drywall due to storm in a Palm Springs North, FL home

4 Ways to Make Your Flood Claim Go Smoother

When it comes to a flooded home in Palm Springs North, FL, time is of the essence. The water extraction, drying out and cleanup needs to happen fast to prevent secondary damage. To ease the costs of that, it is imperative to file a flood claim. Below are tips to get the ball rolling and the home back on track to recovery.

1. Notify Provider of Insurance Claim

Prior to doing anything in the home, call the insurance provider first. The sooner that happens, the sooner an adjuster will arrive to begin the process. Be sure to ask any questions about what should or shouldn’t be done while waiting for help to arrive.

2. Document the Damage

Being organized is essential to a smoother claim. No matter how small the damage may be, it is vital to photograph any issue. Creating an itemized list of the damage may also help speed up the process, as well as is evidence of the water loss. Before your claim can be processed, you have to do some documentation.

3. Make Temporary Repairs

Often an essential component of a flood claim is making temporary repairs. This may involve boarding up a broken window, tarping up roof damage, or removing waterlogged carpet. Any exposed areas of the home create the potential for secondary damage to happen. If ignored, the repairs for that damage will likely not be covered by the insurance provider.

4. Contact a Restoration Company

The aftermath of a flood can be overwhelming. Calling a mold and water damage restoration company for an assessment may ease the stress. A certified company will be available to take your call 24/7 and arrive on-site within 48 hours. After completing a full assessment, the company will provide a detailed plan of action and work. The right professional will also have insurance industry expertise, further making the claims process easier.

A flood claim is necessary to get your home back to preloss condition. The steps above may help make that process go more smoothly and quickly.

Why Working With a Local Restoration Franchise Matters

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Miami Lakes captures this idea, “Faster to any size disaster.”

Why It's Important to Work with a Local Restoration Franchise?

If your company is one of the thousands that must deal with a disaster in any given year, you will have options for who you partner with to get your business up and running again. Working with a local commercial restoration company in Miami Lakes, FL makes a lot of sense, especially one that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. A company that is on call 365 days a year, day or night, means technicians will arrive on the scene in two hours or less after being called. This has important implications for your company as it could speed up your recovery and reduce damages and expenses.

The Value of a Fast Response
No matter the nature of the disaster, whether it is a storm, flooding, or a fire, a quick response by trained workers makes a big difference. Within the first few hours, SERVPRO technicians can accomplish a lot:

• Secure the scene against additional damages
• Take safety precautions for employees and clients
• Remove water from the building, if needed
• Inspect the building for damages
• Make a plan for recovery and restoration
• Begin to document damages and repairs

A Faster to Any Size Disaster philosophy places a priority on quick and effective action. Technicians come to the scene prepared with the right equipment and the knowledge to handle any situation.

The Importance of the Insurance Claim
A restoration company that is a preferred vendor for many U.S. insurance companies, will help with the facilitation of insurance matters. That means taking advantage of the efficiency of an electronic claims service that provides quick and accurate documentation for your insurance carrier. This enables claims to be processed quickly and accurately, resulting in timely reimbursement for covered damages.

A local company that stakes its reputation on a Faster to Any Size Disaster approach understands the needs of your company in a difficult time.  It offers the quickest path forward after a storm or fire.

Choosing the Right Storm Shutters for Your Home

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

Storm damage restoration experts say that windows are especially vulnerable during storms and should be protected.

Choosing The Best Storm Shutters For Your Home

When it's hurricane season in Hialeah, FL, it's important to do everything you can to protect your home from high winds. According to storm damage restoration specialists, windows are particularly vulnerable during storms, and there are several ways that you can protect them.

Easy Installation Options

While the hourly rate for professional installation tends to fall within the $45-$100 range for most models, some take longer to install than others, which can significantly affect your overall cost. This is why some homeowners may look for options that are easy to install themselves:

Fabric storm shutters ($5-$15 per foot)
Plywood ($1-$5 per foot)
Hurricane screens ($5-$15 per foot)

Accordion Coverings

Accordion panels are stored beside your windows and unfolded to provide protection during a storm. They typically cost $15-$30 per square foot. They are cost-effective but may be more vulnerable to breaking than other types.

Bahama Shutters

If you live in a hot climate with frequent high winds, Bahama-style window coverings may be the right choice for your home. The awning can be folded down when a storm is on its way to protect your windows from objects tossed about by the gusts. The cost before installation is $20-$35 for each square foot.

Colonial Storm Coverings

Colonial storm barriers are for those who appreciate a classical aesthetic. This option is usually $25-35 per square foot. They tend to take more time to install, though, so the extra labor can increase your final cost significantly.

Automatic Rolling Panels

A roll-up or roll-down shutter provides superior protection for your home. Technicians attach sets of them to your home permanently so that all you have to do is roll them out when a storm is coming. They can cost $25-$60 per square foot and often take longer than other options to install.

When you are trying to pick the right protection against high winds for your home, there are many factors to consider. Compare the look, cost and effectiveness of different options to make the best choice.

What To Expect During Fire Restoration

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides fire, water and mold damage restoration services. We are ready to help you, call us!

What To Expect During The Fire Restoration Process

A fire in your Palm Springs North, FL, business is a trying time. Along with trying to keep operations running smoothly, the smoke damage and soot damage need to be addressed. Even if the affected area is relatively small, there may be lingering issues if cleanup and repairs aren’t properly done.

Call the Experts

Getting back to business is the top priority, so it is recommended to obtain the services of a professional fire damage restoration company to handle the work. Below is what you can expect from a licensed company:

• The property will be inspected thoroughly, including potential hidden smoke damage. After the inspection, an assessment will be made detailing the work required to get the business back to like it was.
• Depending on the extent of the damage, windows, walls and the roof will be boarded up or tarped to prevent secondary damage.
• The cleanup process then begins. This includes not only the damage from the fire but also potential water damage incurred as the fire was extinguished.
• The final step is restoration. This may include replacing carpet, drywall and paint. Extensive damage may require major repairs to ensure the integrity of the structure.

Smoke Cleaning

While it may be tempting to tackle fire damage on your own, there is typically hidden damage that may linger for years. Choosing a professional to complete the cleanup means peace of mind that any odors will be eradicated. A licensed contractor will have the industrial-grade tools and expertise to remove stains, odors and soot from carpets, upholstery and curtains, as well as equipment and other items.

While a fire may be a devastating situation, there are experts who have the knowledge to get the property back to what it was before the loss. From smoke damage to mold growth and more, using professional services means knowing the repairs are being done right.

How To Use a Fire Extinguisher

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

From a small kitchen fire to an electrical fire, a fire extinguisher is a vital tool to keep the flames from spreading in your business.

What Is the Best Way To Use A Fire Extinguisher?

From a small kitchen fire to an electrical fire, a fire extinguisher is a vital tool to keep the flames from spreading in your Miami Lakes, FL, business. Since this first line of defense is so important, it is also imperative that people know how to use it and that the equipment is properly maintained.

Remember PASS

Luckily, regardless of the brand or class of the extinguisher, they are all designed for easy operation. The key is to remember the word PASS.

• Pull: There is a pin at the top of the extinguisher that ensures the handle isn’t accidentally pressed. In an emergency, pull the pin.
  
• Aim: Maintain a safe distance from the flames and aim the nozzle toward the bottom of the fire.
  
• Squeeze: To discharge the extinguishing agent, squeeze the handles.
• Sweep: Use a side-to-side sweeping motion to extinguish the flames.

If the fire continues to spread, evacuate and get help. It’s better to have a professional fire damage restoration clean up the aftermath than to have anyone get injured.

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance and Tips

Knowing how vital it is to have an extinguisher on-site, it’s important to ensure that is easily accessible and taken care of. When an emergency happens, you want the confidence to know that no one has to go searching for it or move things around to access it. As for maintenance, it is ideal to regularly check the pressure gauge and inspect the unit for any dents, rust or damage. The hose should also be looked over for cracks. A general rule of thumb is to replace the equipment every

12 years.

Every business needs to have a fire extinguisher available. While hopefully it won't ever be needed, it is important that everyone knows how to use it and that the fire-fighting tool is regularly inspected.

How To Limit Hurricane Damage to Your Business

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

Disasters do not wait to strike until business hours are over. The storm may actually occur while you and your employees are in the building.

How To Minimize The Impact Of A Hurricane On Your Business

If you do not properly prepare, hurricane damage may cause your Hialeah, FL, business to close permanently. The high winds alone could result in major harm to your property. However, by following the below steps, you can ensure your company survives an impending storm.

1. Purchase Supplies

Disasters do not wait to strike until business hours are over. The storm may actually occur while you and your employees are in the building. You should thus gather supplies and store them in a safe location. The items will keep everyone safe and let you continue running your company during the storm as much as possible. Essential items for your emergency kit include:

• Basic tools
• Battery-operated television or radio
• Three-day supply of non-perishable food and water for you and your employees
• Duct tape
• Tarps
• Plastic bags
• Cleaning supplies
• Pillows and blankets
  Chairs and cots
• Camera for documenting the hurricane damage
• Flashlights with batteries
• First-Aid supplies and manual
• Signal flare or whistle for calling help
• Electric generator

Be sure to keep extra smoke alarms and fire extinguishers among your emergency supplies, as well. They will be necessary if the storm sparks a blaze in or near your building.

Finally, post key emergency contact information near the supply area. List the phone numbers for the Small Business Administration, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, your company's insurance agent and your local commercial restoration company.

2. Protect Key Documents

Next, make extra copies of hard-to-replace documents such as tax returns and legal contracts. Store all of this paperwork in waterproof containers.

3. Secure the Premises

Finally, secure as much of your property as possible. Use Velcro or straps to attach important equipment to the floor. Similarly, add anchors to any large pieces of furniture. Consider putting the most valuable items in higher locations or moving them off-site.

By purchasing supplies and protecting your key documents and property, you can limit hurricane damage to your commercial premises. This, in turn, should prevent the storm from closing your business.

Should Discolored Ceiling Tiles Be Cause for Concern?

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Before you begin replacing damaged ceiling tiles, have a mold remediation specialist inspect the entire area for mold growth.

Should Discolored Ceiling Tiles Be Worried About?

Installing ceiling tiles in your commercial property is a sound investment, because tiles are durable and require little maintenance. One consideration that should not be forgotten, however, is that tile mold can grow over time. That’s why it’s critical to conduct routine maintenance on your ceiling tiles.

Items To Look for When Inspecting Ceiling Tiles

Set up a routine preventive maintenance inspection to look for signs of wear and other damages, including:

• Discoloration - If you spot any tile discoloration, it’s time to inspect further.
• Stained ceiling tiles usually indicate that water is leaking from the roofing materials.
• Warping - Warped tiles are another telltale sign of water damage.
• Rusted and bent grids - These signs indicate further damage beyond the surface.

Dirt and dust - Dust and dirt are the perfect ingredients to encourage tile mold to grow. Keep tiles clean by wiping them with a wet cloth, along with a small amount of cleaner, if needed.

Situations That Require Repairs

If damaged or discolored tiles are discovered during maintenance inspections, repairs or replacements may be necessary. Before you go about the task of replacing any tiles, however, contact a mold remediation specialist to inspect the entire area for mold growth. Professionals are trained to know what to look for and how to best remedy the situation.

When you are ready to replace the damaged tiles, make sure the same pattern is still in stock. It’s a good idea to order enough replacement tiles for future use. If you don’t feel confident installing the replacements, calling a professional will ensure the job is done right.

Preventive Measures To Reduce Risks

Make sure to keep the air ducts of your HVAC system clean. This reduces the dust and mold emitted into the air from the heating and cooling system.

You can reduce the risk of tile mold in your Palm Springs North, FL, facility by following a few easy instructions.

What To Do When Your Basement Floods

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Before a flood occurs, make sure your insurance coverage includes flooded basements.

What Should You Do If Your Basement Floods?

A basement flood in Miami Lakes, FL, can be stressful. Building owners should know what to do when flooding occurs. You must remove the water, repair damage, prevent mold growth and file an insurance claim.

Causes

Flooding can happen for a number of reasons:

• Rain
• Melting snow or ice
• Broken pipes
• Overflow from appliances

If the flooding is not being caused by environmental factors, you should shut off the water source as quickly as possible to minimize damage.

Removing the Water

When your basement is flooded, you need to remove the water as quickly as possible. You should open doors and windows to allow air to circulate. For small amounts of water, you may be able to use towels to soak it up. For large amounts of water, you will likely need a pump or industrial vacuum. Always check that the electricity in the area is shut off before making contact with the water.

Repairing Damage and Preventing Mold Growth

Water can damage building materials, such as wood or drywall. It can also damage electrical wiring. A water damage restoration service in Miami Lakes, FL, should inspect the area and repair any damage. They will also make sure everything is fully dried and then clean the area with antibacterial sprays that prevent mold growth.

Filing an Insurance Claim

Familiarize yourself with you insurance coverage to be sure a basement flood is covered before an emergency occurs if possible. After the flood, make a list of belongings that were damaged and take photos of any damage for your insurance provider. Contact your agent as soon as possible to begin filing a claim.

If you experience a basement flood, you can minimize damage if you know what to do. Remove the water from the basement, repair damage, prevent mold growth and file an insurance claim as soon as possible. Before a flood occurs, make sure your insurance coverage includes flooded basements.

Developing an Effective Fire Response Plan in Your Office

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

As part of your overall contingency plan in the event of a fire, make sure everyone in your building is aware of all possible exits.

Creating A Fire-Response Plan That Works In Your Office

Are you prepared to handle emergency situations at work? You hope nothing dangerous ever arises, but it’s vital that you have plans in place to properly react when people’s lives are in danger. You need a contingency plan if a fire starts in your office. With some time and preparation, you can safely evacuate employees and even help prevent fires from starting.

Preliminary Steps

As a leader in your Miami Gardens, FL, organization, you must take safety seriously. You can never completely prevent all mishaps and disasters, but you reduce the likelihood of workplace injuries and emergencies. Consider starting with the following actions:

• Ensure you have functioning fire alarms and fire extinguishers.
  
• Ensure the electrical wiring and heating systems are up to code.
  
• Develop an evacuation plan in the event of a fire or other emergency.

Identify Exits

As part of your overall contingency plan in the event of a fire, make sure everyone in your building is aware of all possible exits, particularly those nearest to their offices and workstations. Remember, in a fire, it’s not safe to take an elevator, so stairwells and fire escape stairs are critical.

Assign Roles

It’s human nature to panic when one feels threatened and when peril ensues. It’s crucial that people remain calm and orderly proceed out of the building. To help minimize confusion and chaos, give people in your organization a job during an emergency. You need someone to guide people out of the building, someone to take a count to ensure everyone gets out of the building, a person to sweep the building to look for stragglers, and someone to call the fire department.

Have a Gathering Place

All employees in your building should know where to go once they leave the building. Designate a nearby area where everyone will gather. Be sure this is a familiar place, safely away from fire and smoke.

If you need assistance coming up with a contingency plan, expert disaster professionals are available. With the right planning, you can avoid tragedy.

First Aid for Toilets

3/5/2022 (Permalink)

When you find sewage in your home, be sure to call the trained experts at SERVPRO for cleanup and restoration services.

Toilets: First Aid

The last thing you want to explain to your business's stakeholders in Miami Lakes, FL, is where an intolerable smell is coming from. That's why proper sewer cleanup is a must, whether it's from something as quotidian as a flooded toilet or a colossal wastewater geyser caused by municipal sewer backup. Just remember these simple principles:

• Assess the situation
• Secure the area
• Take action

A Level Head

Every sewage issue needs a careful analysis, even if performing one is unsavory. Determine which of the following three classes best describes your spill:

1. Major hazard: unknown water sources, sewage backup and toilet overflow
2. Potential hazard: clean toilet overflow, soapy water and water with chemicals
3. Low risk: broken water pipes, clean water spills or malfunctioning fixtures

Complete Protection

After you know what you're dealing with, it's time to think about how to protect yourself and your stakeholders during the sewer cleanup process. These are steps that you should probably feel comfortable with doing yourself, such as marking the perimeter of the affected area with warning signage. However, try not to do anything that feels unsafe. Water cleanup professionals near you should be able to assist or advise in more extreme situations.

Time To Act

After you have identified the problem and everything is cordoned appropriately, then it's time to take cleanup measures. Of course, this process differs depending on what type of water problem you have. It's important to remember that, although cleaning up all the water is a good first step, it's rarely the end of your moisture removal.

Situations requiring sewer cleanup in Miami Lakes, FL, are potential losses for your company. The best way to mitigate those losses is usually to take immediate and appropriate action. Remember to identify the problem, secure the affected area and have all necessary cleanup measures performed. Once the immediate problems are out of the way, you can then focus on any communications or secondary cleaning that needs to be performed.

Diagnosing a Shower Leak

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Does your home have water damage? This is no problem for our team! Our technicians are well versed in their areas of expertise. Call us!

How To Spot A Shower Leak

Amidst the many aspects of maintaining your home in Miramar, FL, attending to a bathtub leak can be frustrating without an idea of what to look for. It is important to remember that some signs of damage are easier to distinguish than others; however, confirming the occurrence of a leak is possible with a keen eye and a thorough bathroom inspection.

Check for Telltale Signs

Identifying any immediate indicators of a leak can help determine how best to handle the situation. Giveaway signs may include the following:

• Pooling water near the shower pan. This is often the result of a shower door with a poor-quality seal and is one of the simplest leaks to repair.
• Wet spots and dampness on any walls near the shower. If the leak is occurring within the plumbing system, the pipes behind the wall may expel water, thus leaving visible wetness.
• Water leaking from the shower head. When lime scale and other minerals accumulate in the spray holes, water may leak from other parts of the fixture. Cleaning the shower head and replacing the O-ring may solve the issue.

Scratch Beyond the Surface

Unfortunately, a bathtub leak may cause damage that is not as apparent and may require a more in-depth analysis. One critical factor to be aware of is the presence of mold or mildew anywhere in the bathroom; this includes any odors that occur. The flooring underneath and walls connected to the shower should be examined for breakages, moisture, loose tiles, and stains. Finally, any crawl space area underneath the bathroom should be investigated for moisture, dripping, or mineral buildup. Typically, these signs indicate a leak that may need to be addressed by a professional.

Determine the Best Course of Action

Generally, a shower pan leak with telltale indicators can be repaired without the need for professional intervention. For more internalized leaks, it is wise to consider contacting a water damage repair specialist for further analysis.

While diagnosing a shower or bathtub leak can be challenging, an informed approach can simplify the process. Understanding what to look for and when to contact a professional can make all the difference in preserving your home.

3 Steps To Clean Up a Roof Leak

2/12/2022 (Permalink)

The storm may be moving in your direction and when it is called SERVPRO. We are available 24 hours a day to help protect and restore your property.

How To Fix A Roof Leak In 3 Easy Steps

A severe storm or high winds can damage the roof of a building in Miami Lakes, FL. Damaged roofing materials make a roof leak more likely. Here are three steps that building owners and managers can take to limit the extent of damage and prevent storm or water damage from leading to secondary problems, such as mold.

1. Tarp Over the Roof Until Repaired

As soon as it becomes apparent that a roof is leaking, a building owner or manager should try to determine the source of the leak. Hire roof damage mitigation experts to tarp over the damaged area to prevent additional moisture from penetrating to the interior of the structure.

2. Mitigate Interior Damage

A roof leak can damage materials such as insulation and ceilings. Fiberglass insulation is not designed to withstand moisture and will need to be torn out and replaced. Ceilings may also need to be torn out. It is a good idea to hire an experienced storm damage mitigation and restoration company to take all of the necessary steps toward mitigation to prevent more serious problems down the line.

3. Repair the Roof and Restore Damage

Hire a roofer to repair roof damage. It may take some time for the portions of the interior exposed to water to dry out. Do not rush restoration prior to drying, as this may allow conditions conducive to mold growth to persist. Once the affected area is dry, restoration experts should install new insulation and replace all of the damaged building materials.

These three steps can limit the extent of damage resulting from a roof leak at a commercial building in Miami Lakes, FL. It is important to tarp over a damaged roof as soon as possible to prevent water from causing more interior damage. Regularly inspect a roof after severe storms to look for missing shingles and other indications of damage.

4 Questions To Ask Yourself When Addressing a Leaking Toilet

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Is water damage present in your home? Call SERVPRO for all your restoration needs. Our crew is always available to take your call.

When Dealing With A Leaking Toilet, Ask Yourself These Four Questions.

Discovering that you have a leaking toilet on your hands in Miami Lakes, FL, is never fun! A small leak can quickly lead to large puddles that will increase your water bill and possibly cause water damage. The first step to fixing the leak is diagnosing the problem and determining whether a repair or replacement is the best line of action. To help narrow down the possibilities for the source of the leak, start by asking yourself these four questions!

1. Do You Need To Replace the Wax Ring?

A common cause of a bathroom leak is an improperly installed or dried-out wax ring. Although the process of replacing a wax ring gets pretty complicated, the ring is cheaply priced at $10 or less. Be prepared to completely remove your toilet for this task!

2. Is the Tank Cracked?

A cracked toilet tank is often caused when people are too rough when putting the tank lid back on. If the crack is very thin, you might not notice it and be surprised when you find a constantly leaking toilet. A porcelain sealer or tank replacement is your best bet for this problem.

3. Is the Flapper Warped or Stuck?

While you might not instantly notice a warped flapper that has been worn out due to chemicals used to clean your toilet, a stuck flapper can cause a large overflow if the issue isn’t detected in time. To avoid dealing with water damage repair, make sure to check your flapper if your toilet bowl is leaking.

4. Do You Need To Realign or Replace the Float?

If you notice the fill valve is constantly running, a float that is cracked or positioned incorrectly is likely the culprit! Replacing a broken float or realigning it will get water levels back to where they’re supposed to be.

Addressing a leaking toilet immediately is key to avoiding serious water damage to your bathroom. While some issues will be a quick, inexpensive fix, a toilet replacement may be necessary!

How to Clean Electronics After a Fire

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

We are the masters of not only home or office restoration, but restoring belongings from fire as well. Call SERVPRO when you need it!

After A Fire, How To Clean Electronics

There’s a lot to worry about during and after a fire in your office. Next to the safety and well-being of your staff, you have concerns about the extent of damage to your equipment and supplies. Whether an electrical fire or other type of fire damaged your electronics, there are ways to minimize the problems and even restore the items.

What Can Happen?

Even minor fires in your Hialeah, FL, office can threaten your sensitive equipment. You want to act quickly to evaluate the damage. Fire and smoke damage can harm electronics in the following ways:

• Soot. Smoke will leave behind a layer of soot, which carries acidic properties. High concentrations of acid can ruin computers, printers, and other equipment.
• Smoke causes magnetic charges. You don’t want a magnetic charge to come into contact with any electric item. This can destroy circuits on any device.
  
• Overheating. Smoke can bring a nasty black film, which will settle on electronics. This can lead to overheating issues, reducing an electronic item’s life.

What Can You Do?

Your first step after an electrical fire is to unplug all electrical devices and leave them off. No matter what, don’t plug them back in or try to start them up again. This can cause further damage. Before you try to handle any of the clean-up yourself, call a trained professional. Expert fire and smoke cleanup companies can take care of damage effectively and in a timely manner.

Why Call the Pros

A professional has both the knowledge and equipment to properly handle computer cleanup. The team will use specialized methods to prevent further problems and will give you the best chance of using your computers, printers, televisions, and other devices once again.

No one wants to deal with an electrical fire. If you face this daunting task, make sure you let a competent specialist employ the right skills and training to help you out.

My Pipes Burst! Now What?

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

Is water damage present in your home? Call SERVPRO for all your restoration needs. Our crew is always available to take your call and answer any quest

My Water Pipes Have Burst! So, What's Next?

As a homeowner, you love the benefits and joys of owning a house; however, you also know that a long list of things could go wrong. Any one of these will require your time, effort and money to remedy. Bursting pipes, for example, can lead to a host of troubling issues. If you encounter this situation, it’s important to know what to do next.

The Causes

Other residents in Miami Lakes, FL, can attest that it’s not pleasant to deal with bursting pipes. It’s critical that you act quickly and that you understand how this ordeal can occur.

• Low temperatures
• Water movement/water hammer (occurs when pipes aren’t properly secured)
• Irregular water pressure
• Corrosion

Shut Off the Water

When a pipe burst, it can lead to excessive water damage. If this happens while you’re not at home, the results can be disastrous. Hopefully, you’ll be able to spot this problem quickly. As soon as you notice that a pipe has burst, shut off the water to the pipe in question. If you’re not sure where it’s coming from, turn off the main water to the house.

Evaluate the Damage

Once you shut off the water, drain excess water left in the pipes and figure out exactly where the broken pipe is located. Take note of the extent of the damage. It might be easy enough for you to fix a broken pipe if the damage is minimal. However, in more complicated, widespread cases, you should contact a plumber. You should also get in touch with an expert cleanup team to help get standing water out of your home.

Get the Right Help

If you’re not confident in your skills to repair the problem, it’s important to call a professional immediately. The broken pipe could be the result of a larger issue that you can’t detect on your own.

Understand the causes of bursting pipes and take these steps. These will help you reduce the risk of extensive flooding at home.

3 Ways To Limit Revenue Loss After a Fire

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

A fire damage restoration company can complete cleanup in less time than non-professional cleaners. Contact SERVPRO!

Three Ways To Minimize Revenue Loss Following A Fire

The damage caused by a fire and the inability of a business to operate during the restoration process can halt revenue streams. Interruption insurance coverage can compensate for lost income and cover expenses until a business is ready to reopen. Here are three ways to limit the amount of revenue lost during a business interruption due to fire.

1. Temporarily Relocate

If a business can operate out of another part of a damaged structure or a temporary location, this may limit lost revenue and get around the need to file an interruption claim. Relocation may not be possible if an enterprise relies on specialized equipment that has sustained damage in a fire or that cannot be moved.

2. File a Business Interruption Claim

If there is no way for a business to operate during fire cleanup and restoration, the owner or named insured should file an interruption insurance claim. It is a good idea to perform a business impact analysis ahead of time to ensure that the amount of coverage will be sufficient. It can take 48 to 72 hours for interruption coverage to begin. Extensions may be available in 30-day increments up to 720 days with optional endorsements.

3. Hire Fire Restoration Professionals

A fire damage restoration company can complete cleanup in less time than non-professional cleaners. Even though these services may be more expensive, they are likely to be more efficient and result in fewer persistent problems. Commercial property insurance companies also prefer to cover claims for damage that will handled by experienced professionals.

These methods can limit the amount of revenue a business loses after a fire. An interruption insurance claim may not be necessary if a business can operate out of a temporary location. If not, a claim can compensate for losses. Rely on restoration professionals to clean and rebuild a commercial property in Palm Springs North, FL

Fungal Fraternal Twins: The Differences Between Mold and Mildew

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

Mold problems are a common nuisance and trait for homes. However, with SERVPRO, you can reduce your costs and potential risks.

Mold and Mildew Are Fungal Fraternal Twins: What's The Difference?

Mold and mildew, while similar are not the same and are resolved in drastically different ways. For instance, mold damage may require a specialist, but any number of household cleaners likely remedies mildew. While these fraternal fungi are related, it is important to Know their differences to reduce your level of anxiety should you come across either.

1. Prominence Versus Subtleness

Mold is a little bit of a trickster, when it appears, it may only show up in blotches on walls or surfaces, but it has likely been growing for some time in wall cavities and crawlspaces. Mildew growth, alternatively, is considered a surface fungus, meaning that it is what you see.

2. Bold Black and Green Versus Lighter Gray and White

While mold damage and mold growth are distinctive for many reasons, one is the color of the fungus. Mold can be a multitude of colors, depending on the type of mold, but the most common colors are black and green. Mildew, however, is not as colorful, only showing up in gray and white.

3. Fuzzy Versus Smooth

When staring at a mold specimen and a mildew sample, you will likely notice the apparent texture difference. Mold is almost fuzzy while mildew is flat. Also, mildew will resemble a stain more than a growth.

4. Infestation Versus Nuisance

Mildew can be considered a nuisance, something that is annoying but easy to clean and remove. Mold, however, can be a part of a larger infestation that has set up base camp in your walls and crawlspaces. If you find mold, it may be wise to contact a mold remediation specialist in the Miami Lakes, FL, area to help.

Mold damage can be expensive to remedy, but just because you find a discolored growth behind a kitchen cabinet does not mean you are dealing with mold. Mold and mildew, while similar, are vastly different, so know which fungus you are dealing with before you panic.

Keep Your Kids Safe - Teach Them How To Escape a Home Fire

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

Teaching your kids safety practices in case a fire erupts is one of the basics and should be done early and often.

Teach Your Children How To Escape A House Fire To Keep Them Safe.

As a parent, your number one concern is your kids’ safety. Their lives are filled with opportunity and adventures where you help plan for their protection. Why should your home be any different? Have you got an exit plan or survival plan in the event of a home fire? Have you got a plan in place for reconnecting in Miami Lakes, FL , if you get separated?

Teaching your kids safety practices in case a fire erupts is one of the basics and should be done early and often. Do it in a serious manner but try not to scare them. Make a game of it, so it becomes second nature when they are too scared to think.

Fire Safety Basics

•Teach them the basic drop, tuck and roll, and fire crawl techniques to stay low to the ground and avoid smoke inhalation.

•Practice exit routes, including how to get out of windows as a fire escape plan if there is a fire in the hallway or on the stairs.

•Teach them how to feel doors and knobs with the back of their hand to check for heat.

•Children should know not to go back inside a burning structure, no matter what - or who - got left inside.

Caring Means Preparing

Hopefully, your children will be trained well enough to be able to make a safe escape from your home, should a fire break out. If a fire does happen, get some help from professional restoration services in Miami Lakes, FL, to return your home to its pre-fire condition and help your kids feel safe again. Smoke cleaning and content cleaning can make your home feel clean and fresh again.

When it comes to your kids’ safety, you can’t be too careful. Attention to training and practicing fire drills at home can help keep them safer in a fire. Help them to learn the importance of obeying what they have been taught in an emergency situation. Make sure you have fire alarms installed and a plan for getting back together. You will all feel safer when you are better prepared.

5 Steps for Fixing a Toilet Leak

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

If you notice water on the floor after you flush, and the water is not coming from the top of the bowl itself, you may have to remove the toilet-

Fixing A Toilet Leak In 5 Easy Steps

Few problems can cause more disruption in your home than a leaking toilet. The longer the issue goes unresolved, the more problems it can cause, resulting in the need to hire water damage specialists. If you notice water on the floor after you flush, and the water is not coming from the top of the bowl itself, you may have to remove the toilet to fix the leak. Here are the five basic steps of that process.

1. Drain and Detach

The first step of toilet repair is draining all the water out of the tank and bowl. Turn off the water at the shut-off valve; then flush the toilet. You may notice water coming out from under the base, confirming that the leak is coming from the toilet itself and not a supply line. Once the toilet is drained, detach it from the water source.

2. Rock and Remove

To fix a leaking toilet, you have to get to the source of the problem, so you will need to rock it back and forth until the wax seal holding it in place is broken. Place the toilet to the side on a pallet of towels.

3. Assess and Replace

A broken flange, inadequate seal or loose bolts could all be the cause of the leak. Once you determine the problem, you can visit any hardware store in Palm Springs North, FL, to find the parts you need to replace.

4. Press and Tighten

Once the gasket and flange are back in place, it is time to replace the old toilet. Ease it onto the gasket, making sure it is parallel to the wall, and press down. Tighten the bolts that keep it where it belongs.

5. Reconnect and Test

Hook the supply line back up to the toilet and turn the water back on at the valve. Flush it to make sure that the leak has been repaired. If no water comes out the base, your efforts have been successful!

Replacing a leaking toilet can be easy. Just take it one step at a time.

Common Water Issues for Businesses

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

As water damage specialists, we are prepared and ready to serve you at a moment's notice. Here is an example of how we work for business.

Water Issues In The Workplace

For a commercial property owner in Hialeah, FL, unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, a water damage professional can help you assess, clean, and repair damages from any flooding or leaks you may have. Here are a few of the most common water problems a business may face from leaking pipes to foundation cracks.

1. Pipe Breaks

A pipe break can occur in a number of ways. Over time, the pipe can age and loosen in its fittings, or extensive use can lead to pinhole leaks. Extreme heat or cold can also affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and eventually burst.

2. Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can even lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. When a pipe is blocked, water can take the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages can occur from a number of things, including the buildup of water minerals over time inside a pipe or someone pouring a solidifying material, such as plaster or grease, down a drain.

3. Weather

Extreme weather conditions can also lead to leaking pipes. Cold temperatures can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand. The expansion puts pressure on the pipe and can create a crack or even cause it to burst altogether. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional about what preventive measures to take.

4. Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can also become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues such as mold. Any cracks should be investigated and assessed as soon as possible to determine the best course of action.

Water damage can happen to a commercial property. Fortunately, a professional can fix the damage caused by leaking pipes, foundation cracks, backed up toilet, or weather, and help you repair your property.

Fire Damage: Cleaning Porous Items After a Fire

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Here we have one of our crew members working hard on a fire and smoke damage restoration project. If you need help with this, call SERVPRO.

After A Fire, How To Clean Porous Items

When you experience a fire in your business, it can be hard to assess what is salvageable. Smoke and water damage can make everything appear irreparable. You may even question if content cleaning is possible, if specialty services, like dry-cleaning, can actually make a difference. Fortunately, for your business’ bottom line, they can.

1. Carpets and Furniture

Flooring, like carpeting, and other furniture, like fabric chairs, will likely require rigorous shampooing with an industrial floor scrubber. As smoke odors are extremely strong, you may have to perform this task several times before everything begins to look and smell normal. Soaking the fabrics in a cleaning solution can speed up the process, but that depends on the severity of the damage.

2. Rugs and Clothing

Items that are removable, like area rugs, clothing or other fabric merchandise, can be taken in for dry-cleaning. There are several dry-cleaners that specialize in smoke damaged materials. The process involves steam cleaning the materials to remove the odor.

3. Walls and Other Surfaces

It may be necessary to replace drywall and other surfaces if the fire and smoke damage are too great, but some areas may be cleaned with appropriate solutions and disinfectants. It is necessary to avoid using water alone because it can spread smoke residue and soot, making the surface filtheir than before.

4. Professional Cleaners and Preventative Measures

As soot and smoke residue are finicky, hiring an emergency restoration service in the Miami Lakes, FL, area may be a better option for your business. These companies specialize in fire damage and will have access to the appropriate tools and chemicals needed for cleanup. Beyond cleanup, they can also offer advice on fireproof content storage, deciding this now will prevent damage to important documents later.

While things may seem dire, and your merchandise and business may seem irrecoverable, a proper cleanup can help boost your spirits. Dry-cleaning and floor scrubbing may prove that the damage to your property is not as terrible as you thought. Pick up that washcloth or that phone and scrub that worry away.

3 Flood Prevention Methods for Cities

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for any essential storm damage cleanup and restoration in your business.

3 City Flood Prevention Techniques

Damage from high water impacts businesses in areas like Palm Springs North, FL, all over the world. Traditional flood prevention methods can be quickly overwhelmed in a large downpour. Innovative city planners are considering methods to stop flooding. These methods fall into the following general categories:

• Increasing the availability of natural flood defenses
• Installing improved systems for control of water
• Improving and maintaining sewage systems

1. Natural Flood Defenses

Natural methods for flood prevention are popular because they are self-sustaining and environmentally friendly. These methods include such large-scale projects as restoring rivers to their original channels and recreating floodplains lost to urban sprawl as well as smaller projects such as using permeable materials to build sidewalks or pavement.

2. Water Retention Systems

A variety of methods to hold or redirect flood waters have been created for urban areas. Some cities that experience regular flooding have installed large underground culverts to hold excess ground water. Other permanent forms of retaining high water until it can be harmlessly dissipated include raised embankments. Temporary sectional or frame barriers can enhance permanent flood defenses when needed.

3. Sewage Systems

Urban sewage systems are particularly vulnerable to being overwhelmed in a severe storm. Many cities are improving their water management systems by separating rainwater from existing sewage systems and water treatment plants. Maintaining existing sewage pipes and drains by clearing debris improves water flow and reduces the adverse effects of storm waters.

The severe damages caused by flooding have made flood prevention a priority for city planners all over the world. While these steps can make urban areas more resilient to the effects of high water, when flood waters hit, the services of restoration specialists can quickly put businesses back to work. These efforts can be improved by preventive measures such as raising electrical outlets, replacing plaster board with water-resistant materials and installing waterproof seals on doors and windows.

Fire Alarms: The 3 Most Common Causes of False Alarms in Smoke Detectors

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Likely the most common cause of a false fire alarm is low or dying batteries.

Fire Alarms: The Three Most Common Causes of False Smoke Detector Alarms

While a fire alarm is a terrifying noise, not all alarms require the Miami Lakes, FL, Fire Department or the recovery assistance of a fire restoration company. Some alarms, especially from smoke detectors, are false, but what causes these essential contraptions to produce a false alarm? Keep reading to find out.

1. Malfunction/False Alarm

Sometimes the only explanation of a false alarm is a malfunction. A smoke alarm is a piece of machinery, and as such, it is prone to some unexplainable quirks from time to time. That being said, every smoke detector that is labeled with the UL logo is rigorously tested for effectiveness and performance.

2. Low or Dying Batteries

Likely the most common cause of a false fire alarm is low or dying batteries. The recommendation is that you replace your smoke alarm batteries at least once per year, but because they are inconspicuous and rarely used, smoke detectors are easy to forget. It may be helpful to write a reminder on your calendar or set up an alarm on your phone to remind you to replace the batteries.

3. Dust and Smoke Damage

Oddly enough smoke and fire damage can cause a false alarm, as well as dust buildup. If a smoke detector has been exposed to fire and smoke before, the remnants of that damage can interfere with the detection process and trigger an alarm. Additionally, if dust builds up in the housing of the alarm blocking either the ionization or the photoelectric pulse, then it too can trigger a false alarm.

4. Accidental Test

Also, the accidental pressing of the test button can trigger a false alarm. Whether you were dusting around the smoke alarm, replacing the batteries, or trying to put the housing cover back on, the test button can easily set off a false alarm.

A false fire alarm may be one of the biggest frustrations a homeowner can experience. However, while false alarms may be a nuisance, there are several explanations for why they occur, and despite the irritation, you still can agree that a false alarm is better than no alarm at all.

How To Handle a Broken Water Heater

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Is your water heater running? Have you noticed a spike in your water bill? Then it may be time to check for a leak.

How to Deal with a Faulty Water Heater

As a homeowner, you may have to deal with a wide range of home maintenance problems in Palm Springs North, FL. A leaking water heater, for example, could plague your house. What should you do when this type of issue arises?

1. Get Help

Like other flooding situations, it is often best to allow professionals to handle the cleanup process. Working with a team familiar with residential flooding ensures your cleanup will go quickly and smoothly.

2. Stop the Water

Cutting off the water supply to a leaking water heater can help you reduce the amount of water that fills your home. Most units have a water supply valve, but you may need to turn off the water to your entire house to stem the surge.

3. Turn Off the Power

Before your professional can start repairing a failed water heater, you need to make sure it is safe for him or her to get to work. You can do this by turning off the power to the heater. Depending on your unit, you may need to turn off a circuit breaker or turn a dial on the water heater itself.

4. Prepare for Repairs

Next, the broken water heater has to be drained. This has to be done before it can get repaired because your expert has to have access to the source of the leak. Not only should the water be drained, but the valves on the system should be opened to ensure a vacuum does not form during the cleanup process.

5. Address the Water Damage

Once your water heater has been repaired, you need to turn your attention to the damage caused by the leaking. Drying out your space and replacing damaged building materials can help return your home to its original state.

If you are ever faced with a leaking water heater, you need to know how to address the problem. Quick action can save you from future issues.

3 Types of Damage Hail Can Cause to a Commercial Roof

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Summer storms can be particularly brutal, sending down torrential flooding rain and hailstones to cause serious roof damage.

Three Types of Hail Damage to a Commercial Roof

It can be a challenge to protect your Hialeah, FL, commercial building from damage, especially when it comes to the type of trouble violent weather can dish out. Summer storms can be particularly brutal, sending down torrential flooding rain and hailstones to cause serious roof damage. Inspecting your roof after a strong hailstorm can help you catch problems before they spread, and there are several different issues you can look for.

1. Cracks in Asphalt Shingle Roofs

While roofing on a commercial building is often different from those of residential homes, it can still sustain serious damage from large hailstones. If your building has an asphalt shingle roof with little to no slope, you may want to climb up and inspect it once the storm has passed. Look for cracks or discolored areas that resemble bruising, note their location and then let your insurance company know about your findings.

2. Wood Shake Damage

If you own a unique retail or restaurant location that features a wood shake roof, it can be especially important to look for hail damage after a storm. This type of roofing looks attractive yet can be vulnerable to wear and tear from large stones. The ends of the wood tiles may crack or be split by hail, or they may come loose at one end and reveal the material underneath. A sudden water stain on the ceiling or a new leak may occur in this case. Consider calling in a water damage and remediation service for assistance to prevent damage to the interior of your business.

3. Dents and Dings in Metal Roofing

Although metal roofing can be somewhat less impervious to hailstones, roof damage could still occur when the stones are large enough to leave large dents behind. These areas might weaken over time and fail during a later storm.

Hail can cause considerable roof damage and affect your Hialeah, FL, business. Knowing what to look for after a storm can prevent long-term trouble and allow you to resolve problems quickly.

How to Tell Mold and Mildew Apart

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

When you notice mold growth on a commercial property, contact SERVPRO of Miami Lakes.

How To Tell The Difference Between Mold And Mildew

When you have the creeping crud taking over your home, it’s hard to care if it’s mold or mildew. You just want it gone. But mold and mildew have very different effects on your home and on you; could you tell the difference between mold and mildew if you found it in your Miami Lakes, FL home? Let’s take a look at what makes the two fungal growths so similar – and what makes them completely different.

Mold vs. Mildew: Which Is More Dangerous?

Mildew is mostly harmless, though there are a few breeds of mildew that can do damage to your home. While it’s more common than mold, it’s mostly an eyesore and unpleasant to the touch, with a powdery feeling that many find nauseating. Mold, on the other hand, is much more invasive and can cause significant mold damage to vulnerable areas of your home. Mold tends to be more fuzzy and varied in color than mildew. Signs that you might have mold include:

• Musty odors coming from secluded places in your home
• Dark stains on walls
• Leaks and water damage
• Fuzzy growths on organic matter, including walls, floors, and food
• Unexplained health effects with no other allergen sources present

So How Do You Get Rid of Mold and Mildew?

Mold and mildew remediation can be difficult, but not impossible. While you are constantly inundated with free-floating mold spores, it’s possible to take preventative steps to ensure your home isn’t a hospitable environment for either parasitic growth to breed. Mitigate any leaks or water issues in your home, and clean up quickly after any floods. Adequately ventilate your home, and use a dehumidifier if needed to prevent growth in moist, humid areas. If you suspect a mold or mildew infestation, you can call in a professional to perform necessary testing and isolate the causes in your home.

What Type of Smoke Alarm Is Best for My Home?

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

While some fire alarms pick up heat, the effectiveness of these models can pale in comparison to a smoke detector.

What Is The Best Type Of Smoke Alarm For My Home?

There are few more frightening experiences than a house fire. While this is the last event Palm Springs North, FL, residents likely want to think about, it is nevertheless a vital consideration. Protecting your home and the lives of everyone in the household is top priority, so look to the following different types of equipment to choose the best smoke alarm for your home.

While some fire alarms pick up heat, the effectiveness of these models can pale in comparison to a smoke detector. There are three basic types of such detectors to choose between:

• Ionization Alarms
  
  An ionized detector is generally cheaper than other types of alarms. These alarms use miniscule amounts of radioactive material to ionize the air in a small chamber in the device, allowing the air to carry an electric charge. When smoke passes through this chamber, it causes a disruption in this electrical current, which then sets off the alarm.
• Photoelectric Alarms
  
  According to most smoke alarm experts, photoelectric alarms have a smaller chance of making false alarms than their ionization counterparts. This type of fire safety device uses a light beam and a photoelectric sensor to detect smoke. While ionized alarms are usually better for spotting fast fires, photoelectric alarms typically best detect smoldering fires.
• Smart Alarms
  
  Most smart alarms use photoelectric sensors, and some even have a split-spectrum sensor for greater accuracy. Although identical to non-smart detectors in terms of basic function, a smart detector has more customized options and can send alerts directly to phones and tablets.

If you're like most homeowners in Palm Springs North, FL, you've probably wondered which device is best for your space. Whether you're well-versed in the world of smoke detectors or are just getting started, expanding your knowledge on product options is never a bad idea. Once you've chosen the proper spots in your home for a smoke alarm, you can install the right ones to protect your living space.

The Basics of Business Interruption Insurance

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

If you have any flood damage in your business, you can call SERVPRO, we are ready to help you.

Business Interruption Insurance Fundamentals

As a business owner, you already know the importance of insurance. From liability insurance to car insurance and beyond, these plans are part of your everyday operations and allow you to conduct business in your establishment with confidence. Despite this reliance on insurance, many business owners in Hialeah, FL, are unaware of one of the most beneficial coverage options out there: business interruption insurance. It has a lot to offer, such as:

• Compensating you for business lost during a rebuild
• Covering operating expenses (electricity, water, etc.) when your building is unusable
• Pricing based on present risks in your particular business

Keeping Your Doors Open

The main point of this type of insurance is keeping your doors open while you’re undergoing a rebuild after a fire, flooding or other disaster has occurred. As you know, a closed business makes no money, and with no profit, it could be impossible to keep your business open long enough to see the repairs finished. By compensating you based on your business’s normal income and taking care of operational costs, this service is designed to make sustaining a damaged business easier until you can open the doors again.

Pricing

Business interruption insurance typically isn’t sold on its own. Instead, it will be included in a packaged deal with another type of insurance you purchase for your place of business. Much like your other coverage options, the price for this addition depends largely on what type of business you own. For example, a restaurant or any other business with a higher risk for fire damage will have a higher cost than a dentistry, just as businesses located in known flood zones will make higher payments than those that aren’t.

Adding this insurance option to your policy might cost you a little more at first, but if you ever need to undergo an emergency rebuild it could very well save your business.

Why Does Mold Grow in Houses?

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Miami Lakes if you suspect mold is lurking in your home.

What Causes Mold to Grow in Homes?

Have you ever wondered why mold grows in houses? The short answer is that mold spores are already everywhere. A combination of moisture and organic material provides the conditions necessary for these spores to land, multiply, and spread. The presence of a moisture problem in your home substantially increases the possibility that various types of mold, including black mold, may develop.

Here are three major reasons mold grows in houses:

• A portion of your home has been exposed to excessive moisture. Moisture is the most common cause of mold growth in residential structures. If you have recently experienced a broken pipe or supply line, sewage backup, or a leaky appliance or roof, your home may be at risk for developing some type of mold.
• Moisture has been allowed to linger for 24 hours or more. Limit the secondary damage that results from water damage and lower the risk of mold developing by making sure that excess moisture does not linger after a leak. Use towels that you plan to promptly wash and dry, a mop, or a wet-dry vac and run a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in areas affected by leaks.
• Mold spores land and multiply. Mold spores are present indoors and outdoors, but they will not land and begin to grow unless certain conditions exist. All types of mold, including black mold, grow on the surfaces of organic materials when sufficient moisture is present.

If you see evidence of mold or suspect that hidden mold is growing in your home, contact a mold testing and remediation service in Miami Lakes, FL, as soon as possible. Experts who are skilled at identifying black mold can help you determine which type of mold is growing. Mold starts to form quickly, so it is a good idea to follow up on testing with mold cleanup sooner rather than later.

3 Signs It's Time To Replace Your Bathroom Supply Line

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

If you don't worry about the condition of your supply line, this can lead you to bigger water damage problems.

3 Signs Your Bathroom Supply Line Needs To Be Replaced

Chances are you don't really think about the plumbing in your home unless there is some type of issue. Why would you worry about potential supply line damage if you have no reason to suspect it? However, not thinking about it can actually lead to bigger water damage problems. The water supply line is the piece of plumbing that brings water to your bathtub, sinks and toilets. Consider watching for these three signs to know if this component needs attention.

1. Lower water pressure: Worse than normal water pressure could point to a supply line leak. Sometimes stainless-steel supply lines start to corrode. As the corrosion starts to eat away each braided strand, they break. This leads to a lining rupture and the escaping of water. Because not as much water comes through the supply line, you may notice a reduction of water pressure.

2. Obvious bathroom leaks: A bathroom leak can be a major sign that you need to fix some of your plumbing. If you notice pools of water around your bathtub or drips of water around your faucets, it could be a sign that the supply line needs to be replaced.

3. Bad smells: If you've started to notice the smell of stagnant water, it means that the liquid is able to pool around someplace in your Hialeah, FL, home. Supply line damage could allow water to pool in your walls or cabinets. When you start noticing consistent smells of mold or stagnant water, it may be time to call in a water damage specialist to help you locate and fix the problem.

Being on the lookout for signs of supply line damage can help you mitigate water damage issues. However, as a homeowner, it can be hard to know what to look for in your bathroom and the rest of your home. Often, it is beneficial to get the help of a person who is familiar with water damage and its signs.

Emergency Tips for Dealing With Mold Damage

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

Finding black mold can be a scary thing, however, you can count on SERVPRO, we want to help you!

Mold Damage: What To Do If You're In A Hurry

When you find black mold in your Palm Springs North, FL, home, the cleanup process needs to start immediately. Your first step should be to make an appointment with a trusted residential mold remediation team. However, unless the professionals can come to your home immediately, you will need to take some additional action.

• Stop the Airflow: Mold spores are light enough to be carried to the far reaches of your home through airflow. This means spores often travel through ventilation systems to get to new parts of your home. Because you don't want black mold to get to new areas, you need to close down this mode of transportation. Without special equipment, you may not be able to completely stop the airflow in your home. However, you can severely limit it. Turn off the HVAC system in your home. Remember, you should also turn the fan off.
• Stop the Water Supply. A moisture problem often creates a breeding ground for mold. If you don't know where the excess moisture is coming from, you can cut off the water supply at the source by turning off your home's water. This should stop any leaks from continuing to grow and spread.
• Control the Humidity. Turning off the water may not be enough to actually remove the current problem. You can start to reduce the humidity in your home by running a dehumidifier in the space. Cleaning up any standing water could also help, but this may be better to leave to the professionals. The mold cleanup process can be intensive, but it is important it get done correctly as soon as possible.

Finding black mold can be a scary thing. You may not know how long it's been there or how far it has spread, but you do know that you need to address the issue as quickly as you can. Fast action may help reduce the damage done by mold growth.

Flood Preparation for Commercial Buildings

9/6/2021 (Permalink)

After a flood, it is better to call SERVPRO as soon as possible. We can help you with any flood damage.

Commercial Building Flood Preparedness

As far as natural disasters are concerned, flooding can be among the most costly. While you cannot always determine when a flood is going to happen, it is useful to take preventative measures. This will not only help keep your employees safe, but it will help protect your business and profit.

Contract a Mitigation Company

Have a mitigation company in mind before you end up with a flood on your hands. After a flood, it is better to have a professional service to call as soon as possible. They will be able to assess the damage done to your building and put forth a restoration plan. They will also be able to deal with dangerous black water. In contracting a professional, you are more likely to have your business up and running quickly.

Utilize Data and Cloud Backups

As the flooding occurs, you might not have time to save your electronics. While you may have time to elevate your computers and electronics, there is also a chance the flood waters could rise above them. Your computers store valuable information for your business, from important financial information to personal employee information. You should have a plan in place in case your computer systems are destroyed. Utilizing data and cloud backups allows you to access the information from anywhere.

Have a Continuity Plan

After a flood, your business may have to close for a length of time. It is good to have a continuity plan in place. You should determine what equipment is needed to keep your business running outside of the building. This could be as simple as answering phones or as complex as distributing your product. All of your important files should be located off-site as well.

You can’t always stop flooding from occurring. However, you can make sure that despite the extensive flood damage, you can still restore your Miami Lakes, FL, building and continue with your business going forward.

Water Heater Leaks and Flooding: What To Know About the Cleanup Process

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

A leaking water heater can devastate your property.

Water Heater Leaks and Flooding: What You Need to Know About the Cleanup

A leaking water heater can wreak havoc in your Miami Springs, FL, home and often do so unexpectedly. Sudden, high-pressure leaks or a burst tank can flood the area and cause damage to the floors and any items you might have stored nearby. Calling in a professional flood cleanup and restoration company can help you resolve the problem, and there are a few important points about this process that you may want to know about so you can feel more confident about the condition of your home once it is complete.

Quick Response Can Be Vital

If your broken water heater is flooding your garage or utility room, the water can damage not only the floor and walls of the space but also any electrical systems that might be housed there. For example, if your fuse box is located nearby, high-pressure water leaks can cause it to short out or even damage it beyond repair. Flood technicians can address the source of the leak quickly and shut off the water before any major systems are affected.

Drying Systems May Be Put Into Place

A failed water heater can cause the humidity to increase in your utility room and ruin items that were not initially touched by water. These can include a variety of vital structures and appliances:

• Flooring
  
• Ceiling
  
• Your washer and dryer
  
  

Lowering the humidity in the area with large fans and other professional-grade drying systems can prevent these structures and items from being damaged by the humidity a leaking water heater can cause.

Flood Damage Appraisal

Once the water is removed from the area around your water heater, cleanup and restoration techs may discuss the damage with you and offer you several repair solutions, including replacing affected walls, insulation and flooring. They can also offer you advice about how to dry out wet items or whether some might need replacing.

Dealing with a broken water heater in your Miami Springs, FL, can be a frustrating task. However, being able to work with flood cleanup professionals who come to deal with the flood can help you understand the cleanup process and feel confident that the damage can be repaired.

Saving Fine Art From Mold Damage: What You Need To Know

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Artwork restoration.

Preventing Mold Damage to Fine Art

Water damage in the home can be frustrating, but when water touches fine art, it can be devastating. If your artwork survived the initial influx of water, you still have mold damage to deal with. Cleaning mold off antique artwork is easier said than done, as you cannot just employ the typical mold remediation techniques given to you by your Hialeah Gardens, FL, mold cleaning team. If you want to keep your fine art free and clear of mold even after mold spores have taken root, here is what you need to do:

• Act quickly
  
• Work smart
  
• Work with a conservation specialist
  
  

Act Quickly

When dealing with mold growth on fine art, you need to act fast. It’s important to note that even if water never touches a painting, that painting can still be affected by mold spores that sprout nearby. Additionally, your home didn’t even have to be in a flood for mold to affect your paintings; damage from mold can occur to paintings that have been stored in dark, damp areas for extended periods of time. Begin mold cleaning efforts as soon as you discover mold, as once mold is present, it can spread at a rapid rate.

Work Smart

When removing mold damage from fine art, you need to be much more diligent than you would be with normal household items. Start by removing and cleaning all frames and any non-art surfaces. Then, research what type of artwork you’re dealing with. Each type of painting needs to be dealt with differently, and approaching the mold remediation process the wrong way may ruin your painting entirely. In most cases, it’s best to work with a conservation specialist regarding processes and techniques.

Hire a Conservation Specialist

If you have never removed mold damage from a piece of fine art before, the best thing to do would be to call a conservation specialist. Professional conservators deal with these kinds of issues all the time and can help you restore your painting without sacrificing its integrity.

If you have fine artwork that was damaged by mold, you need to be diligent in your mold cleaning efforts. If you don’t feel comfortable restoring the painting yourself, call in the professionals.

Tips on Timely Storm Damage Remediation

8/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water damaged drywall in a Hialeah, FL home.

Remediation of Storm Damage in a Timely Manner

A storm hits Hialeah, FL, and your house is affected. If you have flood insurance, your first instinct is probably to call your insurance company, and that instinct isn't wrong. The sooner you call, the sooner you can be compensated for your flood damage. It may not be in your best interest to wait to start repairs until the adjuster has made his or her visit, however. Timely storm damage remediation is key to preventing bigger problems.

Avoiding Extra Damage

The second call you make after your insurance company should be to flood remediation specialists. They can assess your damage and get the repairs started so that the problems don't get worse. Many problems continue to escalate even after floodwaters stop rising:

• Standing water soaking further into walls and floors
  
• Damage spreading to previously unaffected areas
  
• Mold growing anywhere there is a surface with excess moisture
  
  

The longer you wait to start repairs, the worse the damage can get. Neither you nor your flood insurance provider wants to pay more for repairs than necessary, so it's in both your best interests to call restoration services quickly.

Avoiding Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Mold damage can start to set in within one or two days if a moisture problem is left alone. If your insurance adjuster believes that you allowed a problem to grow, he or she could chalk it up to neglect, and the company might be unwilling to cover the cost of the mold remediation on top of the flood damage restoration. In order to get rid of the mold, you would then have to pay the cost of remediation yourself. This unnecessary expense can be easily avoided if you call repair personnel in a timely manner.

Your flood insurance adjuster is going to want a clear picture of the damage caused by the flood, not by damage caused by delayed repair. Take pictures and have your remediation company print out a detailed assessment and invoice to back up your claim, but don't wait for the payout to get repairs done. Save yourself the extra damage.

FAQS on Mold Growth

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Palm Springs North, FL.

Mold Growth Frequently Asked Questions

When mold growth is discovered in your facility in Palm Springs North, FL, you are overwhelmed with questions and you must act immediately. After you call the mold remediation professionals, you start to think of all the things you don't know and wished you had asked initially. While the experts do the hard work, here are some common questions and answers about mold:

1. Where does mold live? Mold lives wherever there is water, oxygen and organic material.

2. How do I prevent mold growth? Repair leaks and fix water damage quickly. High humidity (more than 45%) is enough moisture for mold colonies to grow.

3. How fast does mold grow? Infestations can take place in 48-72 hours.

4. Why does mold smell? Gases given off during mold digestive processes are smelly mycotoxins, but the presence of mycotoxins depends on the type of mold and the material being consumed.

5. Why didn't bleach work to clean mold? Bleach only removes stains and does not kill deep mold.

6. If spores are everywhere, are they in my building? Yes, spores are airborne and travel into your building through the HVAC system, windows, doors and on clothing.

7. How do I get rid of spores? You can do some regular cleaning (vacuum, HVAC cleaning, and carpet cleaning) to prevent spore buildup and bring spores levels down to normal.

8. What if the cleanup process causes spores to be released throughout my building? Spores naturally exist in the air, but professionals set up containment areas and use air scrubbers to manage indoor spore levels while cleaning.

9. Do I have to throw away special personal items? It depends on the material involved, but restoration specialists know how to clean different types of materials and will advise if any items can't be saved.

Now you are more knowledgeable about the situation and prepared for the work that will be done. Thankfully, you have professional remediators to get the mold cleaned quickly and safely, but you also know how to manage your building environment to prevent mold growth from happening again.

3 Things You Should Know About Mold Removal

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Mold removal should be done as soon as you notice the growth.

Mold Removal: 3 Things You Should Know

If you have black mold in your Miami Lakes, FL, building, it is important to have it removed as quickly as possible. If you have not experienced this problem before, you may be wondering exactly what to expect. The following information may help you to better understand the process.

1. Mold Removal Times Can Vary
While you may want to know exactly how long it will take to remove the growth from your building, this will vary for each case. Mold grows quickly and can, therefore, spread to a large area before you’ve noticed. If this has happened, you can expect the cleanup to take longer. If you have caught the mold early, removal may only take a few days. On the other hand, more severe cases can take up to a week or longer.

2. Mold Can Sometimes Return
It would be great if you could remove the mold growth and simply be done with it. However, this is unlikely to be the case. If mold has appeared in your building once, then it may eventually do so again. To prevent this, you should be careful to repair leaks and remove water damage quickly when it occurs. Keep moisture levels low and clean the building regularly.

3. Mold Can Be Spread During the Removal Process
If not performed properly, the mold removal process can actually end up spreading mold even further throughout the area. For this reason, it is best to have this done by a professional mold remediation specialist who has the necessary training and equipment. To keep mold spores from traveling, the area should be contained, and disposable protective clothing should be worn at all times. These should be removed before entering clean spaces.

If you do not act quickly, the mold can spread which will result in a long cleanup process. Remember to take preventative steps once it has been removed to keep it from returning.

Tips for Cleaning After a House Fire

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

Safety is always your first priority. Do not go inside of your house until it is safe.

Cleaning After A House Fire

The good news is that you and your family are safe. The bad news is that your home in Miramar,FL suffered a blaze that caused fire, soot and smoke damage. It smells like a bonfire you cannot escape. What actions do you take next? First, go outside, take a deep breath of fresh air and relax. Your home is going to return to its previous state, but it takes time and effort. Follow these tips after a fire to start the process of recovery.

Immediately After the Fire

• Safety is always your first priority. Do not go inside of your house until it is safe. Be aware of the dangers of standing water and electricity, structural damage and risk of slipping on wetness and debris.
• Once clear to enter, be careful not to touch or walk on soiled areas. Rather, lay down clean towels to absorb the soot damage. Change the filter on your HVAC if accessible.
• Do not attempt smoke cleaning on your own, as improper techniques may set stains and odors. Fire restoration specialists are trained and have the equipment necessary to correctly clean your home and belongings.

The Cleanup Process

• Smoke damage professionals arrive quickly to assess the damage, typically in four hours or less.
• First, the structural components of your home are properly cleaned. This can include walls, ceilings, flooring and carpets. The walls are prepared for painting so that the soot damage does not retain its odor.
• Your belongings are cleaned and deodorized using a combination of specialized wet and dry cleaning. This can include furniture, electronics, rugs and other personal items.
• Sources of odors are identified and eliminated, leaving your home truly deodorized.

The combination of fire and smoke damage can wreak havoc on your home in Miramar, FL. Fortunately, with the proper steps and professional help, your home and possessions can be revitalized and restored to pre-fire condition.

Candle Tips and Alternatives for Homeowners

7/10/2021 (Permalink)

Why Do Candles Commonly Cause Fires?

Prevent a Candle Fire

Candles often cause fires in homes. To fully restore a home that has been affected by a house fire often requires time and the help of smoke cleanup and fire restoration professionals. This type of fire is more likely to occur under certain circumstances:

• Lit candles are left unattended.
• Candles aren't placed on a durable surface.
• Flammable items are positioned too close to a candle.
  
  

How Do You Safely Use a Candle in Your Home?
There are several ways you can lower the risk of a candle fire in your home:

• Make sure that flammable items are not placed near the candle.
• Ensure the candle is not within reach of children or pets.
• Blow out the candle before going to sleep or when leaving the room.
  
  

What Are Alternatives to Candles?
There are several safe candle alternatives available. If you love the scent of candles, you may like using room sprays or wax warmers. Room sprays are quick and easy to use, and wax warmers are often appealing because you can enjoy the scent of your favorite candle by placing wax from the candle into the warmer.

If you enjoy the warm glow candles give off, then you can try battery-powered candles or LED string lights. These both emit a soft glow that can create a cozy atmosphere in your home.

Consider the most effective ways to keep your home safe if you use candles there. Knowing why candles often cause fires, how to safely use a candle in your home and what are the alternatives to candles can help you to decrease the risk of a candle fire.  

Prevent Building Water Leaks

7/10/2021 (Permalink)

Leaking pipes can cause major damage to your commercial building.

Protect Your Building Against Water Leaks

In a commercial setting, the function of a building’s plumbing system can mean the difference between conducting business as usual or shutting down temporarily.

If that business is a restaurant, service company or industrial facility that uses a lot of water and needs reliable drainage, a plumbing problem can sideline your money-making activities for days. Even retail stores and offices can be hampered by issues with water availability, drainage, restroom access, or sewage disposal.

Plumbing emergencies can be prevented by keeping the building’s plumbing working properly and reliably by monitoring the system and watching for problems before they develop. Here are some tips to help protect against problems:

Check for leaks: Do a visual inspection of the system to check for leaks.

Test faucets: Turn on faucets to check for leaks around the handles or at the connections to the water supply pipes

Check for corrosion: Look for signs of corrosion and related damage around pipes and pipe fittings.

Test the stability of plumbing fixtures: Make sure faucets, toilets and other plumbing fixtures are solidly attached to the floor, wall or other location.

Check water pressure: Make sure the pressure of the water coming out of your pipes is sufficient for your plumbing needs.

Check all drains for proper function: Water should travel easily down the drain pipes of your commercial building plumbing system.

Test toilets and check flushing mechanisms: Make sure each toilet flushes properly and that all internal components are in good repair

Inspect for visible damage: Carefully look at the plumbing pipes, fixtures, tiling, caulking and other elements to make sure nothing is damaged.

SERVPRO of Miami Lakes has the training, experience, and equipment to handle any size of commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

5 Steps To Prepare Your Business for High Winds

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Contact a hurricane restoration expert to inspect and protect your property.

When Palm Springs North, FL, is expecting hurricane damage, you better be prepared! While insurance will often cover much of the damage, standard commercial insurance does not cover damage from the storm surge – which often exceeds all other types.

3 Causes of Damage

Damage from hurricanes has three basic sources:

• Wind damage
  
• Rain damage
  
• Flood damage
  
  

Not all hurricanes include a serious storm surge. However, major hurricanes usually do, and in worse cases, the flooding may reach tens of miles inland. However, all hurricanes that strike Palm Springs North, FL, are going to cause wind and rain damage to at least some buildings. Here are five steps you can take to be ready for the storm.

Know Your Risk

During hurricane season, check the weather forecast on occasion. If you hear any rumor of a hurricane, check the National Hurricane Center, which will have the most up-to-date and accurate info.

Act Fast

You should prepare for a hurricane as far in advance as possible. As soon as it’s certain that an area is expecting hurricane damage, there’ll be a run on supplies. Ideally, get everything you can when no storm is approaching.

Board and Tape

Board up any windows that you can. Duct tape those you can’t. High winds will turn even the tiniest item into a missile.

Sandbag if Possible

If you purchase enough empty sandbags in advance, you can often have employees fill and lay them before a storm. This is an ideal solution in areas that may see light to moderate flooding, but extreme hurricanes may flood everything anyway.

Protect Documents and Electronics

Get documents and computers into water-safe areas. Even better, back up all your important data to a secure cloud account.

After the Storm
Once the hurricane is gone, contact a hurricane restoration expert to inspect and protect your property. They can tarp exposed areas and put up security fencing as needed. They’ll then restore your business to its former condition.
If you prepare for hurricane damage, you can weather most storms fairly comfortably. Those who fail to do so often end up costing themselves a great deal of money.

Flood Prevention Tips For Towns and Buildings

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Floodwaters in a Pembroke Pines, FL building

Flood Prevention Tips For Towns and Buildings

All the scientific evidence points to an unstable climate pattern in the future. For example, a high tide can cause the same amount of flooding as an intense hurricane from 50 years ago. That’s why people need to up their flood prevention game, especially those living in Pembroke Pines, FL  and other flood-prone areas in the nation.
Here are some solutions for urban flooding:

• Use permeable sidewalks and gardens
• Separate rainwater from the sewer system
• Replace sea walls with waterfront parks
  
  

Sustainable Drainage

Towns are made of so much concrete that nearly all downpours result in flooding as everyone directs their stormwater to the same sewer system. To solve this issue, people should use permeable materials when building sidewalks, driveways, and gardens. That will reduce the amount of wastewater and support plant life as well.

Separate Stormwater From Sewer Lines

When floodwater gets into the sewer lines, the result is an overwhelmed wastewater treatment system. That could result in a nasty sewer backup, which translates to an emergency flood cleaning exercise. For this reason, some towns have a separate stormwater system that is designed to relieve the sewer drain. That opens up the possibility of water harvesting and also plays a significant role in flood prevention.

Replace Sea Walls with Waterfronts Parks

The Dutch have always advocated living with water instead of trying to keep it out, and they are right. Sea walls cost a fortune, and they seem to be one of the leading causes of the dwindling turtle populations. Waterfront parks, on the other hand, are eco-friendly in every way. They also give the engineers a chance to decide where to direct the excess water.
It’s no secret that flood prevention efforts will become harder in the future as the ocean rises and the weather becomes more unpredictable. For now, everybody should hope for the best and plan for the worst.

Dos and Don'ts of Containing a Grease Fire

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

A grease fire in a Pembroke Pines, FL home

Dos and Don'ts of Containing a Grease Fire

A grease fire in your home in Pembroke Pines, FL, can be terrifying but it is important to remain calm to get it under control. These types of fires are very common but some typical fire safety tips do not apply in this case. Here are some of the dos and don'ts of getting it under control.

Don't Use Water
You should never use water to attempt to douse a kitchen fire. Water and oil do not mix and this will result in:

• Water sinking below the oil
  
• The heat from the fire flash-boiling the water
  
• Boiling water forcefully exploding the oil outwards
  
  

This could result in spreading the fire much further as well as severe injury to yourself.

Do Turn Off the Heat Source
A grease fire needs heat in order to continue to burn. As soon as you are safely able to, turn off the heat to the burner or stove. This will not immediately extinguish the fire but should slow it down.

Don't Move It
A fire of this nature is easily spread and you should never attempt to move it to a sink or outside. As you move it, you may splatter grease and fire around your home. There is also a potential to spill the oil onto yourself resulting in burns.

Do Try To Smother It
Fire needs oxygen to burn, so if you can remove the source of it, the fire will smother quickly. If your flames are contained in a pot or pan, attempt to get the lid on or cover it completely with a cookie sheet. If you have time, put on oven mitts to protect your hands while you do so.
When you experience a grease fire in your home, be sure to follow these tips to safely extinguish it. Afterward, seek out a fire damage assessment from a professional to help with fire cleanup.

What You Should Know About Water Hammering

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

It's important you take care of your plumbing.

What You Should Know About Water Hammering

Depending on your home’s construction, you may hear water flowing through pipes as certain appliances or residents call on the water supply. The unrestricted flow of water is an essential part of the function of your house in Miami Gardens, FL; however, some pipe sounds can be unnerving. Banging, whistling or squealing as water flows are usually indicative of an issue ranging from a minor nuisance to a serious issue. The loudest banging may give you the impression that a pipe break is imminent, but the problem may not be that serious.

Considering the Source of Sounds
A pipe burst is often associated with frozen water due to extreme cold, but pipe sounds can occur in any season. The following are some of the most common sounds and their causes:

Whistling – Rapid flow beyond an obstruction or restriction, like a distorted washer or loose screw
Whistling (Toilet tank) – Repair or adjustment of ballcock valve needed
Hammering or banging – Water slamming to a stop quickly inside a pipe

Hammering or chattering in pipes may be adjusted by tightening loose connections, installing antihammer devices or wrapping the plumbing with foam insulation. The latter also helps protect against a pipe break due to frozen water when outside temperatures drop below freezing.

Taking Care of Your Pipes
Your pipes are an essential part of delivering clean water to various locations in the home. It’s important that you take care of your plumbing, especially if there’s a problem. A broken pipe can lead to serious water damage in your home that will require the services of a professional damage remediation company. The right pros are not only trained on the best way to fix broken pipe issues but also knowledgeable about the appropriate techniques and methods to repair water damage and restore your home to pre-damage conditions.
Think of your pipes as the blood vessels of your home. It’s important that water flows freely without restrictions and leaks. If you suspect a pipe break or other problem, consult a professional on the best way to address the issues as soon as possible. It can make all the difference when it comes to costly, extensive repairs.

4 Ways SERVPRO Helps With Claims

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Take advantage of the claim services offered by emergency response specialists.

4 Ways SERVPRO Helps With Claims

Experiencing a disaster at Hialeah Gardens, FL, business causes feelings of frustration and stress. Frustration is a common reaction because disasters hinder your normal workday. Stress is also a typical response to emergency situations because there is increased concern for the well-being of employees, as well as the need to work with insurance companies to handle claim services. Fortunately, there are four ways that an emergency response team assists business owners with claims to reduce these stresses.

1. Emergency Disaster Response
Fire, flooding and storms wreak havoc, and the longer the situation is left unattended, the more damage is done. SERVPRO offers a team of professionals with the training and skills to quickly attend to any situation. Restoration specialists are available 24/7 to clean up after fire, water, mold and more. A fast response to any disaster reduces damage by enabling businesses to restore items rather than replace them.

2. Pretesting
Another way that emergency specialists assist with claim services is by performing pretesting. Trained technicians inspect items before throwing them out, evaluating furniture and belongings to see if they can be restored.

3. Electronic Claims
Business owners and insurance adjusters are busy people, and disasters only add to their amount of work. Fortunately, SERVPRO has a claims information center that enables all parties to see claims electronically. Electronic job files contain important information such as loss info and photos, estimates, pending jobs and completed jobs.

4. Best Practices
Finally, insurance companies want to ensure that a restoration job is handled correctly. SERVPRO outperforms the competition by ensuring that all franchises meet the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration’s certification requirements. Insurance companies and business owners can rest assured that their cleanup and restoration project is done correctly.
Take advantage of the claim services offered by emergency response specialists. The amount of frustration and stress you experience can be decreased by utilizing their expertise.

What You Need To Know About Mold and That Musty Smell

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

When you notice mold growth on a commercial property, contact SERVPRO of Miami Lakes.

If you’ve noticed a damp, musty smell in your commercial property, you may be concerned about mold and the presence of mycotoxins. The good news is that not all molds are toxigenic, and even when they are, there is no real data to support their connection to anything worrisome. In the majority of cases, the mold you find only poses a threat to secondary water damage in your property, which is a good reason to address it right away.

Understanding Mold

To get a handle on what you’re dealing with, here are a few basics you should know about mold:

• It’s a type of fungi whose purpose is to decompose dead organic matter.
  
• It needs water, oxygen, a nutrient source and temperatures between 40-100 degrees Fahrenheit to grow.
  
• The musty odor you smell comes from MVOCs — microbial volatile organic compounds — that are naturally occurring, and in some cases, due to mycotoxins.
  
• The color of mold is influenced by its nutrient source and how long the colony has been there.

Taking Action

Mold can continue to spread unless these three things are addressed:

• All existing mold is completely removed and disposed of properly.
  
• All nutrient sources (wet, damaged materials) are removed and disposed of properly.
  
• Moisture levels in the space are returned to a healthy level.
  
  

Mold remediation specialists address all these issues by utilizing years of knowledge and experience coupled with state-of-the-art tools. During cleanup, they will use HEPA air filtration systems to scrub the air clean and high-powered dehumidifiers to remove all excess moisture. They can also get rid of the moldy smell and show you exactly what you can do to keep it from coming back.
Although musty smells and the presence of mold in your property in Hialeah, FL, isn't ideal, you don't have to worry too much about mycotoxins. Swift removal of the offending material is your first priority, then all you need to do is take care of whatever is causing the dampness and moisture.

What if You Have a Broken Pipe or Water Damage During Construction?

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

The best way for dealing with water damage is to consult with a water damage mitigation expert.

During construction in Miami Springs, FL, many normally hidden items are exposed to the elements — as well as to accidents. Plumbing and electrical are especially prone to mishaps, and a broken pipe can stop a project dead in its tracks. The key to preventing water problems is to have a plan for both avoiding accidents and responding immediately to flooding or a needed water pipe repair.

What’s the Big Deal With Water Damage?

When a construction site gets flooded, the problems mount up quickly. They include:

• Foundation or material damages
  
• Sinkholes
  
• Project delays and penalties
  
• Higher insurance deductibles and premiums
  
  

Floodwater is bad news. It’s often filled with toxic runoff and can lead to long-term ground subsidence. Flowing water is even worse because it can strip the ground under your construction and create new runoff channels as you alter the landscape.

What Should You Do First?

Before anything else, you need to identify and rectify the source of the water. If from an external source, such as groundwater or flooding, you may need to sandbag and use portable pumps. If the source is internal, you’ll need to locate and perform a fix if possible, such as a water pipe repair. However, if you redirect water that damages someone else’s property, you may be liable for those damages.
The best method for dealing with the problem is to consult with a water damage mitigation expert. These professionals have the equipment to extract the water and redivert water flow in a safe manner. They’re often covered by your construction insurance policy and can quickly identify a broken pipe, even if underground.

What About After the Water Is Gone?
Once the site has been stabilized, you need to assess how the flood happened. What do you need to do to prevent a recurrence? If something was damaged, plan beyond just a water pipe repair. A policy change could prevent it from happening at a future construction site.
With a little forethought and analysis after the fact, you can save yourself delays and damage to your projects. A flooded site could be viewed as a learning experience!

How to Treat a Burn Injury at an Office

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

If an employee is burned in an office fire, understanding burn first aid is vital.

Tips On Treating Burn Injuries At An Office

Fire damage doesn’t just affect the structure of a building. A building fire in Hialeah, FL could injure employees, too. Any injury which occurs at the workplace should be addressed as soon as possible. If a burn injury is sustained at the workplace, it is critical to know how to treat the burn, so that an employee has the best chance at a quick and full recovery. Here are several tips for how to treat a burn injury at an office.

1. Assess the Degree of the Burn
If an employee is burned in an office fire, understanding burn first aid is vital. The first step should be to evaluate the extent and the degree of the burn. If a worker is severely burned, calling emergency services or taking the employee to a hospital should be a priority. A severe burn is one that is very deep and typically covers a large area. This type of burn requires immediate medical attention.

2. Run Cool Water Over the Burn Area
If a burn is determined to be minor, running cool water over the affected area may help calm and cool the injury. Running water over the area for approximately five minutes may be beneficial. It is important to note that ice-cold water could cause more damage to a burn due to the constriction of blood vessels. Therefore, ensure that the water being used is cool, but not freezing cold.

3. Utilize a First Aid Kit
Any sort of fire damage that occurs – whether it is to the building or an individual inside of the office – should be treated urgently. For an injury experienced by a person in a fire, a first aid kit at a workplace may be very helpful. A kit that contains bandages and special burn cream can help alleviate pain and facilitate healing. (If a building is damaged in a fire, professionals who specialize in fire restoration can help.)
Fire damage at an office is a serious issue, and this is especially true if a burn injury is sustained. However, following these steps may help an individual – and a business – to recover quickly.

3 Unexpected Things That Can Cause A Basement Flood

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure storm drains near your home are free of blockage

Reasons Why You Might Be Experiencing a Basement Flood

If your basement in Miami Lakes, FL, floods every time there's remotely severe weather, you may think that you just have to live with it. However, many causes of basement flooding can be remedied so that you don't have to break out the shop vacuum so often. Aside from natural disasters and broken pipes, here are some unexpected reasons you may be experiencing a basement flood and what to do about it.

1. Poorly Installed Drainage
The drainage system for your home may be installed in such a way that the water isn't directed far enough away from your home, or worse, is actually directed toward it. If your drainage system is poorly placed, you can easily be faced with a flooded basement when heavy rains overrun your system. You may be able to do this correction yourself, or you may wish to call a professional.

2. Low-laying Location
If your home is in a low-lying area on your property, you are more likely to experience a basement flood. Eventually, erosion will help to level out the slope and you'll have less flooding, but if you don't want to wait around for that to happen, you can certainly call a contractor to come and work on the gradient of the property around your home to protect you from flood waters. In this case, you've likely already experienced some damage to the foundation of your home. Your next call should be to a water damage remediation team who can restore your home to prevent further structural damage or mold issues.

3. Improper Sealant
Another issue could be that your basement isn't properly sealed. This could include floor and wall sealant that can't stand up to the elements and allow moisture or standing water into your basement during major weather events. While irritating and potentially costly, remedying these issues now will extend the life and well-being of your home.
Many times, a basement flood occurs because of issues that can be controlled. Fixing these issues will make a rainstorm a pleasant experience instead of a pain.

Recovering From a Business Fire: 3 Types of Damage To Expect

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Soot and smoke damage in Miami Lakes, FL

What Type Of Damage To Expect After A Fire

When a fire tears through your Miami Lakes, FL business, the aftermath can be devastating. Assessing fire damage can be difficult when you first enter the business once the blaze is out, and you may face problems you did not anticipate. Learning what type of damage to expect after a fire occurs may help you recover more quickly.

1. Smoke Damage
Even smaller fires can cause a variety of damage, including that caused by smoke. Not only does smoke leave soot behind on building materials, office equipment and inventory, it also leaves behind an unpleasant charred odor that might be difficult to get rid of. Smoky smells might linger for months after a fire, especially if you try to cover it with air fresheners that only last a few hours. If your customers notice this odor, they may not return and choose to take their business to a competitor.

2. Water Damage
You may not think about any type of water damage associated with fire, but larger fires require a great deal of water to ensure they are doused completely. The water from a high-pressure fire hose can spread water across multiple floors and soak the contents of almost every room. You can consult a fire restoration and mitigation service to assist you with water cleanup.

3. Secondary Damage
The aftermath of fire might come with unexpected secondary damage, such as those caused by water and smoke. For example, standing water from fire hoses may cause mold to develop as quickly as 48 hours later. Certain types of fungi, such as black mold, are especially quick to develop and can affect building materials, carpeting and stored goods.
No matter its size, a fire can seriously affect your Miami Lakes, FL business and cause downtime and profit losses. Understanding the type of fire damage you might face in the aftermath may help you bounce back quickly and give you the confidence to move forward with repairs and restoration.

What Every Business Owner Needs To Know About Making a Business Continuity Plan

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

It is useful to prepare a business continuity plan ahead of time

A business continuity plan, or emergency response plan, can be an essential component for helping a business stay afloat in difficult times. This document exists to lay out each step that must be taken to ensure continued smooth operation of your business under a variety of circumstances that might otherwise interrupt it. To learn how to protect your Pembroke Pines, FL, business in the event of a disaster, you must first know how to create this plan.

What Could Go Wrong

It is useful to prepare a business continuity plan ahead of time to deal with a variety of possible events, such as:

• Flood damage
• Hail damage
• Wind damage
• Fire damage
• Scheduled maintenance and utility work
• Pandemics or other natural disasters
  
  

What To Include
Make sure your plan covers all plausible interruptions to your business so that you aren't left scrambling in the event of bad luck. For example, if you work out of a building with plumbing that is prone to leaking or old pipes that might burst, make sure that you have the number of your preferred water damage repair specialists ready to go.

When To Start
In general, the sooner you begin working on your emergency response plan, the better. It is hard to put a value on the peace of mind it can give to business owners to know that they are prepared for any eventuality, and because disasters often strike without warning, it is best to create your plan as soon as possible. Once your plan is ready, it is a good practice to check in with the details every so often to ensure that your information is current.
Business owners do not want to think about unfortunate circumstances interrupting their work for any length of time. The beauty of a business continuity plan is, once it is complete, you need not worry as much about the future.

Using Candle Alternatives To Reduce the Risk of Fire

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

These candle alternatives eliminate the risk of a candle fire due to their lack of flame

With an abundance of fragrances on the market, candles have become quite popular for home use in Miramar, FL. Whether you love the smell of baked goods, trees, or ocean air, you are likely to find a candle to match the scent. However, despite their calm glow and warm ambience, candles can put your home at risk of a fire if they are not under constant supervision. If you are worried about accidentally setting your home on fire, you should consider using candle alternatives.

Choosing a Substitute for Open Flame

There are plenty of great options available, including:

• Wax warmers
  
• Oil diffusers
  
• Reed diffusers
  
• Room sprays
  
  

These candle alternatives eliminate the risk of a candle fire due to their lack of flame. The open flame on a burning candle can ignite objects nearby if placed too closely and left unattended. The soft glowing light can turn loose papers or curtains into a much larger flame than you bargained for in a matter of seconds. Not only are these fires dangerous, but they can be extremely costly as well.
The alternatives listed above can be purchased at most home decorating stores, specialty shops, and spas. Their variety of fragrances is equally as abundant as their candle counterparts. If you prefer the simple lighting of unscented candles, you can opt to mimic the soft lighting with strategically placed lamps or use flameless candles with a simple on-off switch.

Restoring Your Home After a Fire
A fire can destroy your home, or at the very least, leave you with expensive repairs. Rebuilding your home and restoring it to its pre-fire condition can be very time-consuming. You will also need to call a professional fire restoration and repair service to ensure that your home is restored safely and damaged items are removed and replaced.
Candle alternatives are a great option to have in your home, and they provide many of the same fragrance and lighting benefits as candles can, with the added benefit of safety. If you can assume the responsibility of monitoring a lit candle through its lit duration, feel free to enjoy its warmth and ambience. Otherwise, keep your home and property safe with these simple substitutes.

4 Steps for Preventing Mold in Humid Climates

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

A dehumidifier likewise helps by maintaining a beneficial percentage of humidity in the air

Steps To Prevent Mold Growth In Your Place Of Business

Humid climates make mold a challenge to control. As a business owner in Miami Lakes, FL, you are probably familiar with the difficulties of keeping your commercial space mold-free. Excessive moisture combined with the right (or wrong) temperatures can promote mold growth in basements, around window frames, and in attic storage, among other places in your building that are frequently exposed to high humidity levels. While a challenge, there are steps that you can take to prevent mold growth in your place of business.

1. Use Air Conditioners and Dehumidifiers
You may not think of an air conditioner as helpful in preventing mold in your office, but one that is run and maintained properly can do a lot. Keeping your A/C unit at 70 degrees during the summer and setting it for "auto" instead of "on" ensures that condensation has a chance to drain rather than blowing moisture back into the building and contributing to high humidity. A dehumidifier likewise helps by maintaining a beneficial percentage of humidity in the air in otherwise damp places like basements.

2. Maintain Your Building
Exterior and interior maintenance help to prevent mold damage. Inspect your roof for leaks and check that your windows are sealed properly and that there aren't cracks in the foundation or around pipes that allow moisture to get in.

3. Clean Regularly
Mold spores land on dusty surfaces and can grow there. By cleaning and vacuuming regularly, you prevent mold spores from being able to settle and spread.

4. Remove Affected Items
Once you discover mold at your business, it's important to remove anything that has already been damaged. Spores can spread to other surfaces, so contact a mold remediation professional to clean and disinfect your space, or throw the item away.
If you fail to control high humidity in your building, you will have difficulty preventing mold growth. Taking the appropriate precautions now is a lot more pleasant than dealing with mold clean up later.

Flooding: Water, Water, Everywhere

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Water or flood damage?

Most homeowners in Miami Lakes, FL, would agree that a basement flood — or any interior flood — tops the list of daunting repair and restoration emergencies. The usual causes are a faulty sump pump or fractures in basement or foundation walls that give heavy rains a gateway to deposit dirty water on your floors and belongings. Oftentimes, it's a broken water pipe that gushes freely and requires an immediate pipe repair. Regardless of its source, when faced with sizable flooding it's best to call in water damage experts who have the training and equipment to quickly remove standing water and properly dry and refurbish your property.

What Should You Do Until The Professionals Arrive?

Here's a list of key do's and don'ts.

What To Do
Immediate action is important to lessen water damage:

• Mop up excess water from flooring
  Wipe water from wood furniture and other items
• Remove and prop up wet cushions and other upholstery to help dry them out
  Put aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs that stand on wet carpeting
• Remove books, magazines and other colored items from wet floors and carpeting
• If they can be easily lifted, take area rugs or other coverings off wet carpeting
• In summer, turn on air conditioning to maximize the drying of your possessions
  

What Not To Do

Safety measures are essential when there's flooding in your home:

• Do not use a household wet/dry vacuum to remove floodwater
• Do not use your television or other household appliances that use electricity
• To prevent an electrical fire, do not turn on ceiling light fixtures if the ceiling is wet or looks damp
• In case of a ceiling collapse, do not enter rooms where the ceiling is wet and sagging
• To avoid physical injury, do not lift large, wet items (like area rugs) because wet material is very heavy and unwieldy
  

The cleanup after interior flooding can test the mettle of even a veteran homeowner. By knowing a few basic rules about personal safety and property preservation, you can do a lot to keep risk factors and water damage to a minimum.

Why You Need a Certified Mold Remediation Professional

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Why is it important to hire a certified mold remediation company?

Why You Need a Certified Mold Remediation Professional

A certified mold cleanup and remediation contractor has completed coursework, developed specific skills, and met certain requirements established by industry organizations. This type of professional may even have validation from more than one standard-establishing organizations. There are many ways to earn these credentials:

• Completion of coursework through the United
• States Environmental Protection Agency
  
• Participation in classes recommended by the
• Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and
• Restoration Certification
  
• Successful completion of licensing and certification courses locally or online
  
  

When you need a reliable technician to handle mold cleanup in your Miami Gardens, FL, home, it's important to choose a licensed, certified agency.

The Importance of Hiring Professionals
Why is it important to hire a certified mold remediation company? One of the first reasons for you to hire a certified mold professional is that your insurance provider probably prefers this step. When you choose a technician who has met the requirements to achieve these credentials, there's a better chance that the work will be completed satisfactorily.

The Risks Associated With Mold Contamination
Another decisive reason to hire professionals with mold certification is that it gives you confidence that remediation services are completed reliably. Mold can cause serious long-term damage, especially if pockets of mold growth are overlooked. Homeowners without a thorough understanding of mold could unknowingly cause further damage:

• Improperly treated mold can negatively impact your property value.
  
• Extensive mold growth can mean that you need to replace the entire flooring and structure of rooms in your home.
  
• When mold threatens the structural integrity of your home or foundation, the home could end up being condemned.
  
  

The Need for Specialized Equipment
Professionals with appropriate training and certification often have access to equipment and supplies that other companies don't have. These qualified technicians are prepared to contain spores during remediation to prevent further spread. The workers can often locate the presence of mold using testing devices in areas of the home that you haven't yet identified. Thorough mold remediation requires specialized supplies; traditional cleaners aren't sufficient.
If you suspect mold in your home, reach out to certified mold cleanup and remediation professionals. This is the best way to be sure mold is cleaned up appropriately.

4 Things To Look for in a Fire Restoration Company

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial soot damage

Things To Consider When Hiring A Commercial Fire Remediation Franchise

If your business in Hialeah Gardens, FL, experiences a fire, you will be in need of some quality fire damage restoration. The cleanup after a fire requires a high level of training and current knowledge of restoration techniques. In addition to destroying wood, plastic, upholstery and other materials, a commercial fire often causes soot, smoke and water damage. Here are the most important things to consider when hiring a commercial fire remediation franchise.

1. The Willingness To Help
The motto of SERVPRO professionals is they are Here to Help. You can feel confident that the company will come to your building and do what it takes to get your business back on its feet again. These experts have the ability to handle comprehensive fire damage restoration.

2. The Ability To Handle Jobs Big and Small
Every fire situation is different. Sometimes your building could be in need of a little smoke cleanup, while other times you may need a major restoration. A versatile team is able to handle both ends of the spectrum. A company with corporate resources can even bring in outside help if it is needed for a large job.

3. The Speed To Act Fast
A fire requires a rapid response. A local remediation team can get to your property and start to work in a matter of hours. Professionals will quickly make sure the building is safe by looking out for hazards such as an unstable structure and electrical dangers. They can do an inspection and assessment of the property and determine the best course of action.

4. The Knowledge To Make Things Better
Fire damage restoration is not an easy job. It demands knowledge about structural matters, electrical systems, heating and cooling systems and more. A professional team makes sure its employees are trained in the latest techniques and methods to bring your company back to its pre-fire condition. A quality franchise can handle all aspects of a restoration.

Essential Items for Your Business First Aid Kit

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

A well-stocked first aid kit is an important part of workplace emergency preparedness.

Injuries can happen unexpectedly at your place of business in Doral, FL and a first aid kit is an essential part of your preparedness plan. Here is a list of items to include.

Bandages

An emergency kit should include a supply of adhesive bandages for minor cuts and scrapes. Also, stock at least two triangular bandages. Triangular bandages have a variety of uses, including:

-Sling
-Tourniquet
-Eye cover
-Wound covering
-Dressing
-Makeshift dust mask

Gauze Pads

A first aid kit needs to include gauze pads in a variety of sizes. Gauze keeps wounds clean, absorbs blood and provides covering for an open wound. OSHA recommends stocking 4-inch square gauze pads along with two 8-inch by 10-inch gauze pads. Also include a roll of gauze at least 2 inches wide, along with two elastic wraps and a roll of adhesive tape.

Burn Kit

If burns are a possibility in the workplace, consider assembling a full kit just for burns. Basic supplies include dressings, cold packs and burn gels. 

Other Equipment

The emergency kit should also include scissors to cut gauze, tape or cloth. Wound-cleaning agents such as sealed, moistened towelettes and antibiotic cream are important. Other items to have available are protective medical gloves, tweezers, a blanket, a splint and resuscitation equipment.

Important Contact Information

Include a list of emergency contacts and critical medical information for each employee. Also, it's a good idea to be prepared for other business emergency situations, like a fire or storm. Consider keeping a list of important numbers, like the facility manager, utility company and commercial restoration service, near your emergency supplies.

Proper Storage and Maintenance

Take care to keep the emergency kit away from moisture, extreme heat and cold. Check supplies regularly and replace damaged or expired items. Replenish items as they are used.

A well-stocked first aid kit is an important part of workplace emergency preparedness. With the right supplies, you and your employees will have what they need to handle an unexpected injury.

How To Repair Your Roof After a Storm

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Missing shingles in a Miami Springs, FL home after wind damage

Protect Your Roof After A Storm

Storms and their aftermath can be tough to deal with, and that includes any damage done to your roof. Roof damage can be problematic for many reasons. Mainly, not repairing your roof after a storm can leave it vulnerable to more damage and may lead to other problems later on. Taking the correct steps after a storm can protect your family and your home, as well as prevent costly roof repair.

Damage Assessment
If a storm rips through Miami Springs, FL, the first thing to do is assess the damage done to your roof:

• Check for any missing shingles or granule damage.
• See if any flashing is missing along the edge of your roof, skylights or chimney.
• Inspect your attic or ceiling for water damage.
  

These are the three most common locations for obvious signs of damage, but make sure to inspect your roof thoroughly for any other signs of water or wind damage.

Mitigation
The next step is to mitigate any storm damage you may have found. Mitigation is imperative to roof repair because it can prevent damages from getting worse. Timely mitigation can also help keep down costs in the event that you need to get your roof professionally repaired or even replaced.
Mitigation may include tasks such as:

• Cleaning up storm debris
• Drying materials in your attic that have gotten wet
• Documenting damage for insurance purposes
  

Restoration
Depending on the damage, you may need a storm restoration company to step in. This can happen at any part in the cleanup, mitigation or repair processes. Restoration services will perform an inspection of your roof and provide an estimate for repairs and other tasks needed to return your roof to normal.
Roof repair isn't easy, and in many cases, it isn't cheap. Make sure you know the correct steps to take after a storm to minimize further damage to your roof and prevent a costly roof replacement.

Tips for Handling a Flood at Your Business

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

A flooded business can be very daunting

Water Damage Tips

A flooded business can be very daunting, particularly when it is unexpected, like a pipe burst or sudden storm. You may be stuck between waiting for things to dry and needing to clean up so you can reopen. This is extremely frustrating. Here are some helpful water damage tips to get you started in this troubling time.

Make Sure It Is Safe

Safety should be the first thing on your mind. Flooding, no matter what the cause, can be dangerous. You should do a safety check before attempting any form of clean up or water restoration. To do this, check that:

• The power is off
  
• There is no sewage or chemicals in the water
  
• There are no damaged wires visible
  
• All of the equipment is unplugged
  
• The exterior foundation is not cracked or collapsing
  
  
  

Electrical and sewer hazards present a significant danger.

Take Pictures or Video

Before you follow any cleaning tips, be sure to take a lot of pictures of the flooding while the water is still present and during cleanup. You may need them for insurance or proof of the extent of the damage.

Call the Appropriate People

You need to call your insurance company, landlord and a water damage restoration company in Hialeah, FL. Each may give you agency-specific water damage tips and help you through the process of cleaning up the water.

Remove the Water Using Buckets or a Wet Dry Vac

Your first step in cleaning up is to get as much of the water out as possible. You can do this with buckets, mops and wet-dry vacuums.

Open Windows

Opening any windows and doors can help with the drying process. It will also help to prevent mold and mildew from growing.

From this point, you should consult with a professional water cleanup company for damage tips. Before following their advice, speak with your insurance agent. They may have a different process.

3 Quick Tips for Dealing With Water Damage in Your Home

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Palm Springs North, FL home

Implement The Following Tips In Your Home

Owning a home in Palm Springs North, FL is a wonderful experience, but along with the comforts come certain challenges. The Insurance Information Institute reports water damage, including damage due to bursting pipes, as the second most common reason for insurance claims. Here are three quick tips to help you prepare and reduce your losses:

1. Identify Causes
Water damage can occur in your home from many sources. Flooding, negative drainage, pipe breaks, sewer backup, and even high humidity are common causes. You may not be able to avoid all these occurrences, but you can prevent some with regular inspection and repair.
Having the drainage around the foundation of your home checked and maintained can prevent seepage into basements and crawl spaces. Proper bathroom ventilation can lower humidity to protect surfaces near showers and tubs. Preventing such gradual harm is important, as this type is the hardest to claim from your homeowners insurance.

2. Know Your Insurance Policy
Find out which types of damage are covered by your insurance policy. In the case of flooding, will your home be protected? Does your insurance allow claims from a leaking pipe or only from a sudden event like bursting pipes? Talk to your insurance agent about your coverage and ask for updates whenever there are policy changes. Familiarize yourself with the claims process so you can act quickly in the case of an emergency.

3. Get Repairs Done Quickly
Most damage to houses worsens with time, so it is important to act immediately when you discover a problem. However, always keep your safety in mind. Find a professional cleanup and restoration company that can find and fix broken pipe or other sources of water. They will have the equipment to efficiently remove water and immediately begin repairs.
Implement these tips and you'll be prepared for a variety of emergencies in your home, such as bursting pipes.

4 Signs of a Behind-the-Wall Water Leak

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

The longer the leak has been there, the more damage it will cause and the more costly it will be to remedy the situation

Four Signs There Is a Water Leak Behind Your Wall

A water leak is never expected for a business owner in Miami Lakes, FL. It can be pricey, especially if the leak has escaped detection for a long time. Here are four signs that there is a water leak behind your wall:

1. Damp Floor
A damp floor may be the first noticeable sign that you have a leaking pipe behind your wall. The floor will be consistently damp, or may even puddle.

2. Wall or Ceiling Stains
You may notice discoloration of your wall or ceiling. This water damage means that the leak is significant enough or has been there long enough to soak through. This is likely to eventually lead to the growth of mold and/or mildew on your wall.

3. Musty Odor
Moisture behind your walls will inevitably result in mold if it is there long enough. Since mold can start growing within 48 hours of a water leak, it can be a big problem by the time you notice that there’s an issue. Mold will emit a musty odor. One way to check for mold is by smelling electrical outlets, since they provide an opening to the inside of the wall.

4. Water Bill Increase
As a business owner, you may not be involved with the utility bills first-hand, but a spike in the cost of water for your business over a short period of time is a reason for concern. It could mean that you have a significant leak such as a pipe break behind your walls. The increase in your water bill could, financially, be the most critical factor of all.
When you have a water leak in the wall for a prolonged period of time, the wall doesn’t have a chance to dry. The problem continues to get worse. It’s best to hire remediation experts who can do a thorough job of finding the leak and quickly resolving all issues involved. 

Make a Clean Gas Range Part of Kitchen Safety

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Clean your gas stovetop

If you are fortunate and own a gas range in Miramar, FL, then you know how much more enjoyable it is to cook on an open flame over an electric coil. However, keeping your gas stovetop clean is important. It could present danger if you allow grease to build up.

How To Clean Your Gas Stovetop

Range cleaning takes a little time, but it's fairly simple. Fill your sink with hot soapy water and mix one part water to one part vinegar in a spray bottle. Follow these steps:

• Place your grates in the soapy water.
  
• Spray your stovetop with the vinegar mixture and let it sit for a few minutes.
  
• Wipe down the stovetop with a rag.
  
• For old grease that's resistant, scrub it with a brush and soap.
  
• Drop the burner caps in the soapy water and scrub them and the grates clean.
  
• Remove the burner grates and clean them, too.
  
• When everything is dry, replace the parts and admire your clean range.
  
  

The Dangers of Grease Buildup
If you allow grease to build up on your stovetop, it's possible a grease fire could occur. With a gas range, it's important to know how you would respond if there was a grease fire. Never throw water on such a conflagration, as it will only make the fire worse and potentially cause more damage.
The best way to respond to a grease fire is to get everyone out of the house as quickly as possible and then call for help. A fire can grow out of control in a matter of seconds, so you likely don't have time to figure out a way to stop it. After a fire, never attempt cleanup on your own, as hazards may have become exposed. There are fire restoration professionals who can get your kitchen back to its pre-fire state.
Keep your gas range clean to keep your kitchen a safe place to enjoy cooking. If there's a smoke smell when you turn on your oven, you know it's time to clean it as well.

Know the Categories of Water Loss Before Cleanup

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

Water categories

Unexpected water drenching the inside of your Miami Gardens, FL, business is frustrating. While the first thought may be to start the cleanup, it’s is important to understand the source of the water. Different categories of damage have different levels of potential issues.

Water Loss Classifications

There are three types of water damage.

Category 1 – Often called clean water, it comes from a sanitary source so it doesn’t pose significant health risks. Common sources include a supply line: broken pipe, overflowing sink or tub with fresh water, snow or ice melting, rainwater or damaged toilet tank.
Category 2 – Referred to as grey water, it may include some contaminants that could be harmful, both organic and inorganic. It could come from an overflowing dishwasher or toilet bowl free of waste or a broken decorative water feature, such as an aquarium.
Category 3 – Blackwater may contain various harmful agents including sewage, debris, metals, pesticides, and bacteria. Any natural flooding, toilet backflow, or sewer line issues should be considered this category and requires many safety precautions when cleaning.

Prevent Further Damage
If dealing with a broken pipe, there is peace of mind that you have a clean water mess to clean up. It makes the process much easier and safer. Unfortunately, water itself has the potential to create other issues if not quickly addresses. Once Category 1 water sits too long, there is a good chance that it will lead to mold growth or other microorganism infestation. Once that happens, it immediately bumps up to Category 2. Similarly, that can also get bumped up to Category 3.
When there is a substantial amount of water in your business, even if it is classified as safe, immediately contact a water damage and restoration expert. They have the know-how to properly clean up the mess, regardless of which category it falls in, as well as prevent the damage from spreading or worsening.
While no water mess is fun, a clean water one is relatively safe to start drying out and cleaning. Be sure to act quickly to ensure it doesn’t turn into contaminated water.

Do You Need a Flood Policy?

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

Flood Policy Insurance For Commercial Business

Even if your Pembroke Pines, FL, business is operating in the middle of the desert, there's no guarantee that your property is safe from flooding. Sadly, just one inch of flooding can leave thousands of dollars of water damage. The only way to be sure your business can recover from even a minor flood is by adding a flood policy to your commercial insurance.

High-Risk Flood Zones
If you live in a high-risk flood area, you may be required to carry flood insurance. How can you tell if you are legally required to purchase a flood policy? You can read the guidelines posted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to learn more:

• Refer to FEMA flood maps. If your area is marked with an A or V, you are located in a high-risk area.
  
• Find relevant FEMA maps here.
  
• Do you have a federally backed mortgage? If you do and your area is in a high-risk zone, you must purchase commercial insurance for flooding.
  
• Even if you aren't located in a high-risk zone, discuss your risks with your insurance company.
  
  

You may feel pretty safe from flooding if your property isn't within an area of risk, but there are several reasons to still consider a flood policy.

Moderate- to Low-Risk Zones
According to findings from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, in the four-year period between 2014 and 2018, more than 40 percent of the National Flood Insurance Program flood claims came from areas outside of the high-risk zones. As a property owner in a moderate- or low-risk zone, you may qualify for a lower-cost policy.

Unexpected Emergencies
If you've never experienced flooding before, you should still consider water damage risk due to unmaintained or damaged drainage systems, flash floods from summer storms or melting snow, broken water mains, or new construction in your part of Pembroke Pines, FL. Anyone of these situations could cause flooding where it has never happened before.
Flood damage can be corrected through the efforts of water damage cleanup and restoration professionals, but your commercial property insurance will only cover the damages if you have the correct policies in place.

3 Flood Safety Tips for First Responders

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Washing your hands before joining your flood response team can safeguard your health

Safety Tips While Working With Other Emergency Services

As a first responder in Miami Springs, FL, you may find yourself facing sudden and torrential flooding. Residents in the area will likely need assistance with mitigation and clean up both during and after flooding, and there are a few tips you can keep in mind that may help you stay safe and in control as you work with other emergency services during this natural disaster.

1. Wear Protective Gear
Protective clothing such as bodysuits, gloves, and face masks can protect you during a Category 3 flood, which can contain sewage water, feces, and other toxins. While immunizations may help you avoid certain illnesses connected with this type of waste, additional gear can prevent it from entering open wounds on the skin, such as cuts or scrapes. The type of gear you require may vary depending on the category of the flood water you are called in to handle.

2. Wash Your Hands Often
Washing your hands before joining your flood response team can safeguard your health, especially when you pair this with wearing gloves and other safety items. Wash with hot water and antibacterial soap and scrub your forearms as well as your hands for at least 20 seconds after handling any type of floodwaters. Ask your first responder team leader about germ prevention guidelines to ensure you are doing all you can to protect your health.

3. Avoid Handling Moldy Material
Flooding often causes building materials, furniture, and clothing to mold, and handling these items can be dangerous without the proper equipment. Working with a flood disaster cleanup team can help you avoid the mishandling of moldy property and allow you to clear out rooms safely before mold technicians move in to handle the rest of the cleanup.
Residents in Miami Springs, FL, often depend on a first responder such as yourself to assist them when unexpected flooding occurs. Keeping yourself safe as you work to support your community can reduce the possible spread of disease to your co-workers and those you help.

Preventing Bathroom Mold

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

Control Moisture and Humidity

Bathroom mildew is a common problem in many homes. Fungus needs a warm, moist environment, making the bathroom a prime location for growth. There are several things you can do to take control of your bathroom and prevent mold growth.

Control Humidity

The main culprit in mold growth is excess moisture. A humidity problem can make the entire room vulnerable to fungus spores looking for a place to land and thrive. You can control humidity in your bathroom in several ways:

• Ensure proper ventilation and air flow.
• Maintain swamp coolers.
• Wipe down the shower and tub after every use.
• Clean up spills immediately.
  

If you can maintain a humidity level of 40-50% in your home in Hialeah, FL, you are less likely to have problems with mold.

Clean Frequently
Another thing mold needs to survive is food. Dust, hair, and other organic matter provide fungus with sustenance. If you allow the floor tiles to get grimy, you may soon find that you have bathroom mildew in the grout. Once mold sets in, you may need professional remediation to get rid of it.

Mitigate Thoroughly
Stubborn black or brown spots in the grout in your shower are telltale signs of mold. No matter how much you scrub, it is likely to come back. Mold mitigation specialists can provide a thorough cleaning to get rid of the source of the mold, but you will probably also need to replace the grout where the growth is showing up. A thorough cleanup is vital to prevent a mold problem from returning in the same place.
Preventing bathroom mildew isn't impossible, but it takes a certain amount of vigilance. Start by removing the conditions that contribute to mold growth, including high humidity and dirt. If you do find mold in your bathroom, hire certified experts to remove it and get rid of the problem for good.

Fire Extinguisher Training for Your Employees

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

It’s your responsibility to properly train your employees to use a fire extinguisher

As the owner or manager of a Palm Springs North, FL, business, you have the responsibility to keep your employees safe while on the job. All businesses have the potential to be impacted by fire; therefore, it’s wise to conduct emergency training with your employees each year. In addition to providing a fire extinguisher, it’s your job to ensure that your employees know how to use it and how to otherwise respond safely. Here are some tips to help your employees effectively manage a fire emergency in the workplace.

Emergency Response Team

First, it’s imperative that you designate an emergency response team thoroughly trained to respond to potential fires. This team should be trained in the following areas:

• First aid
  
• Chemical spills
  
• Hazardous materials
  
• Search and rescue procedures
  
• Use of fire extinguishers
  
  

The emergency response team should also have contact with a clean up and restoration company. A professional company will have the knowledge, skills, and proper equipment to assist with fire damage cleanup.

Early-Stage Actions
In the case of a kitchen fire in a breakroom, there are actions that should be taken to reduce the likelihood of smoke damage. First, sound the fire alarm and call the fire department. Before approaching the fire with a fire extinguisher, identify an evacuation path should the need arise.
Next, select the appropriate extinguisher and use the P.A.S.S. technique to try to extinguish the fire. After discharging the extinguisher, back away in case of flames flare up again. Finally, evacuate immediately if the fire won’t extinguish or your extinguisher is empty.

P.A.S.S. Technique
The P.A.S.S. technique is a proven method to safely use extinguishers:

• Pull the pin
  
• Aim low and point the nozzle towards the bottom of the fire
  
• Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing substance
  
• Sweep the extinguisher from one side of the fire to the other while aiming towards the base of the fire
  
  

Steps two through four can be repeated until the fire is extinguished. However, if you or any of your employees don’t feel safe fighting the fire, evacuate immediately.
It’s your responsibility to properly train your employees to use a fire extinguisher. Adequate training will reduce the probability of harm and fire damage.

Three House Fire Prevention Tips

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

Working smoke alarms are one of the most critical components of a fire safety plan

Three House Fire Prevention Tips

You can not eliminate your risk of having a house fire, but proper fire preparation can substantially reduce that risk. These three house fire prevention tips can help you avoid a fire.

1. Install and Test Smoke Alarms
Working smoke alarms are one of the most critical components of a fire safety plan. If you do not already have smoke alarms installed, it is wise to install them. If you do, it is recommended to test them once a month. If you hear chirping sounds coming from your detectors, it is probably time to change the batteries. Most detectors need to be replaced after ten years of use.

2. Equip Your Kitchen for Safety
According to the National Fire Protection Agency, about half of all house fires start in the kitchen. Fire preparation steps you can take in the kitchen include installing a smoke detector and a fire extinguisher. Do not store flammable items, such as towels, curtains, cleaning rags, and chemicals near your stove or any other cooking appliance. Avoid leaving food unattended on the stove whenever possible.

3. Do Not Smoke or Smoke Outside
The NFA has listed smoking as the number one cause of house fire-related deaths. If you smoke, you can reduce your home fire risk by smoking outside your home and always completely putting out your cigarette and disposing of it safely, before you go back inside. Soaking your cigarette butt in water can help ensure that it is completely out. If you can not smoke outside, avoid smoking near upholstered furniture, or in bed. If someone in your home uses an oxygen tank, smoking near oxygen can be an explosion risk.
These fire preparation steps can help you avoid a house fire. However, if a fire does occur, you may wish to seek assistance from a professional fire cleanup crew in Miramar, FL, to restore your home to its previous condition.

The Benefits of Working With a Company That Can Handle a Big Disaster

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

Finding migrating water

Any event that causes harm to your business in Miami Lakes, FL, is major when it happens to you. This could include a small fire contained to a single room or a leak from a plumbing line. Other events truly fall under the category of a catastrophic loss. This can happen in a large community fire, a major storm like Hurricane Katrina or massive flooding like the recent breaching of dams in Midland, Michigan. At this time, the community resources are stretched to the limit. It can be beneficial in times like this to work with a local disaster response company that has the ability to call on a large reservoir of resources.

The Importance of a Local Presence

With more than 1,700 locally-owned franchises, SERVPRO has a presence in many communities throughout the U.S. and Canada. This means there is likely to be a franchise in or near your community. Trained experts will be able to respond quickly to a small problem of storm damage or to a catastrophic loss. A fast response gives rise to the following benefits:

• Reduced costs
  
• Increased safety
  
• Faster recovery
  
• Minimized damages
  
  

A team of qualified professionals can arrive to your building in less than four hours in most situations. Franchise professionals are available 24/7 365 days a year. After all, storms and fires don't take time off during the holidays or on weekends.

The Need for Additional Resources
During a catastrophic loss, a company with large resources can call in for additional help. SERVPRO has a history of deploying teams from throughout the country to provide services and bring in much needed equipment. This has happened many times in recent years and will continue moving forward as big events happen. The company also has developed solid relationships with large insurance companies across the country. This means your company can get the restoration help it needs to recover from a large loss.

4 Steps To Minimize Damage From a Leaky Kitchen Sink

5/23/2020 (Permalink)

Your home in Pembroke Pines, FL, can recover from that leak in no time

Four Steps To Minimize Damage To Your Kitchen

Here are three words and phrases you never want to hear in conversation with your spouse: Water in-home, flooding, and kitchen repair. Unfortunately, a leaky sink may just be inevitable in some cases. With quick thinking and a little help from the pros, however, your home in Pembroke Pines, FL, can recover from that leak in no time. Here are four important steps to minimize damage to your kitchen.

1. Shut Off the Water
To prevent further damage from the leak, you should first turn off your home's water main. If you live in a condominium or apartment building, you may have to contact your building manager to shut off the water. Place a bowl or pan below the leak to catch any remaining water that may exit the pipe.

2. Clear the Area
Remove anything wet from the area. Dry these items off well and place them in a dry area of your home. If unable to move heavier objects, such as furniture, place aluminum foil or wood blocks underneath to prevent damage from further flooding. Remove anything else in the vicinity that is in danger of getting wet. Pay special attention to electrical cords, ensuring that they do not contact water.

3. Call Your Insurance Agent
Contact the agent from whom you purchased your homeowner's insurance policy. Many of these policies cover plumbing issues. Reach out to your agent as soon as you have secured the area to help expedite the claim process. The sooner your claim is processed, the sooner financial help can arrive to aid in the restoration of your home.

4. Bring In the Flooding Professionals
Before restoration, bring in a plumber to fix the culprit pipe. Once it is repaired, contact water damage restoration professionals. Be sure that your crew in Pembroke Pines, FL, is licensed and insured.
Water in your home can be a scary ordeal, but it doesn't have to be. When you find yourself in a pickle from a trickle, follow these four steps to help your home heal and set any future kitchen repair up for success.

4 Tips for Responding to Commercial Water Damage

5/9/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Miami Gardens, FL

Water Damage Tips

Would you know what to do if it suddenly began to rain from the ceiling in your office? A quick response could limit the extent of the damage. Develop a disaster response plan before you need it and be prepared by locating the shut-off valves and breaker box. If flooding does happen, here are water damage tips for those first on the scene.

1. Act Quickly
To prevent injury or further damage, turn off the water source and cut power to the affected areas. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Check for sagging ceilings and avoid walking under them as they could collapse. While waiting for more help to arrive, initial cleaning tips include drying hard surfaces, mopping up any standing water, and catching any water still dripping from the ceiling. If possible, open the windows.

2. Get Help
In commercial buildings, water damage is often the result of a water pipe burst or broken sewer line. Contact a water damage restoration company in Miami Gardens, FL, that has the industrial-grade equipment needed to remove the water and dry out the building. Of these four damage tips, one of the most important is to get help on the way as soon as possible.

3. Salvage Valuables
Save your business documents first, if you rely on paper files. Then move electronics, office equipment, furniture, and other valuables to a safe location and gather anything else you will need to resume normal operations.

4. Call Your Insurance Broker
Ask your insurance agent about the next steps and have an adjuster inspect the damage immediately. Take photos of valuables and damaged areas. Be sure to keep detailed records of any costs incurred during the restoration process, as you will need them for your insurance claim.
Whether from a flood outside or a broken pipe, water can wreak havoc on your property. Utilize these water damage tips to assess and mitigate the issue quickly.

5 Essential PPE Items to Avoid Exposure to Mold

5/9/2020 (Permalink)

Be sure to protect yourself whenever around mold damage

Five Essential Items Needed When Tackling Mold

Coming across mold growth at your Pembroke Pines, FL, business is frustrating. Along with annoying lingering odor, it can mean damage to important items, as well as the building structure. If the affected area is more than 10 square feet, it is recommended to have a professional mold remediation and restoration expert handle the problem for you. Even if there is only a small area of infestation, it’s important to protect against potential health risks associated with exposure. Below are five essential items needed when tackling mold.

Gloves
It’s best to use disposable gloves. Vinyl, latex, and rubber are suitable for the task. Ensure the gloves fit properly to avoid mold spores from making their way into them. Dispose of immediately after use and put on a new pair before beginning any further work.

Shoe and Hair Covers
These disposable covers are another way to prevent mold spores from spreading beyond the affected area. They easily slip over hair and shoes. They should be tossed when leaving the area and replaced with new ones each time.

Clothing
There are special disposable suits that can be obtained. If it’s a small job, personal clothing can be worn. It is important to wear pants and a shirt with long sleeves to minimize exposure. Clothing should be washed immediately after leaving the area to ensure the mold doesn’t spread to other areas of the business.

Goggles
Mold spores are invisible, but they can easily be stirred up, along with dust and debris during the cleanup process. Tight-fitting safety goggles are essential to protect your eyes from harmful irritants.

Respirator
It is ideal to use air-purifying respirators, which are designed to filter out microscopic particles that can easily be inhaled. These respirators are available as both disposable and reusable.
Although seemingly small and simply annoying, mold can be quite harmful. Be sure to protect yourself whenever around mold damage.

What To Know About Storm Damage Cleaning

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

A broken glass door in a Hialeah, FL home

Here Are a Few Things You May Need to Know

It’s not unheard of for storm damage in Hialeah, FL, to lead to flooding, This could mean having a lot of cleanup to do around your home. However, storm damage cleanup can be different from other repair projects you may have experienced as a homeowner. Here are a few things you may need to know.

1. It Can Require a Full Inspection

When it comes to regular damage you may know exactly where the problem lies, however, storm damage can require a full inspection as multiple locations may be affected. Inspect the roof and in areas around the foundation. You may also want to check siding, windows, and doors for possible leaks. If you’re unsure how to properly inspect the home a professional should be contacted for a damage assessment.

2. Multiple Damage Types Can Occur

Unlike a regular repair which may be one damage type in one location, a storm can also lead to multiple types of damage. Flooding can occur either by overfilling the homes gutter or drainage systems or by pooling against the foundation. This, in turn, can cause water damage. High winds can lead to wind damage while sudden drops in temperature can cause problems with frozen pipes.

3. A Restoration Service Should Be Contacted.

If you do have flood damage to your home it’s a good idea to contact a local storm damage restoration service to help with any cleanup and repairs that may be required. These professionals are trained to deal with a number of damage types and will have the tools needed to do the job safely. They may also have the ability to help recommend mitigation steps you can take against future storm damage.

When cleaning up after storm flooding, remembering these things can help you take the appropriate steps to deal with the damage. It’s a good idea to inspect the whole of the property as a storm can cause damage to multiple areas. You may also see different types of damage depending on the weather type and severity. It’s also a good idea to contact a local restoration service for professional help with cleanup and repairs.

What To Do After a Fire

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers board up services in Palm Springs North, FL

What To Do After a Fire

Fire restoration techniques can be used to rebuild, repair, and restore your property after a fire. You want to get things rolling as quickly as possible since few things can put a stop to your business like a fire. In addition, the fire could have left you vulnerable to additional damage from storms or looters. Luckily, by following a few simple steps, you can soon be on your way to business as usual.

1. Call Insurance Agent

If it is safe to do so, survey the damage so that you can explain it to your fire insurance company. If you choose to enter the area, be sure the structure is sound and that you are not in any danger. If in doubt, wait for the professionals to do an assessment. During the fire restoration process, restorers generally survey the damage and report their findings to your insurance company.

2. Do Not Touch

You need to leave everything in place. Do not try to clean the carpet or walls yourself while you wait for the cleanup crew to get onsite. Doing so could increase the damage and make smoke cleaning more difficult. If the building is wet from fighting the fire, do not turn on any electrical equipment or lighting. The wiring could have sustained damage, increasing the risk of electrical shock.

3. Board Up Services

Before beginning the restoration process, your team of specialists will board up your building to protect it from further damage. They may use tarps or wood over openings to keep it secure.
When you work with a professional fire restoration company in Palm Springs North, FL, they will get your business back to normal as quickly as they can, allowing you to resume operations. Professionals will use their expertise to clean soot from your building, remove smoke odors, and repair or replace any structural items that sustained damage.

Effective Flood Prevention Tactics for the Community

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

Retaining wall in Miami Lakes, FL

Floods are a menace to all communities, especially those near large bodies of water such as rivers and lakes. As such, community members engage in flood prevention tactics and devices to protect themselves from harm and their residential and commercial buildings from damage. The people of Miami Lakes, FL, can best diminish the impact of flooding by enacting the following measures.

Retaining Walls and Other Structures

Most cities and towns located in high-risk areas use retaining structures to hold off water. These features control water through different methods and some are artificial, while others are natural.

• Retaining walls
  
• Dams
  
• Reservoirs
  
• Lakes
  
• Levees
  
  

Not every structure surrounds the communities. For instance, detention basins are excavations located near rivers, lakes or bays that store a great amount of water when flooding starts. This practice stalls the water buildup gives people time to evacuate and prevents downstream erosion.

Organized Vegetation

Erosion is one of the most devastating side effects of flooding, as it removes essential soil and rock from an area. A flood prevention tactic that reduces this occurrence is organized vegetation. Shrubs, grass, trees and other plants help decrease the intensity of moving flood water, also minimizing erosion in the process. They also absorb excessive water and use it in a more constructive manner. Communities in low-elevation areas specially benefit from vegetation.

Community Education and Planning

The most important tools that populations have against flooding are education and proper planning. Authority figures must educate residents on evacuation and damage mitigation acts that they can enact. They also must know about available resources, such as medical assistance, shelters, and flood cleaning services. Finally, citizens should know how their daily actions magnify damage, such as how drainage clogged by trash and debris leads to faster flooding.
While natural disasters like floods are inevitable, communities can reduce their damage. Detailed flood prevention structures and plans allow communities to keep themselves safe and salvage their homes and businesses.

Restoring Items After Mold: What To Know

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

Mold cleaning in Miramar, FL

Here's What You May Want To Know

When your Miramar, FL, home faces a mold problem, mold cleaning may be the best option. During this time the prospect of decontaminating your home can seem daunting. Fortunately, a local team of professionals can help. This even includes restoring your household items. Here’s what you may want to know.

1. Items Can Be Restored

One of the first things to understand about mold damage is that it can affect your household items as well as the structure. Fortunately, many of these items may be salvageable. Contact a professional for mold remediation services, including item cleaning, and consult them about which items can be restored as well as the best restoration method to use.

2. Methods May Vary By Item Type

It’s important to note that there are many different ways to conduct mold cleaning when it comes to household items. Each cleaning method will depend on the mold damage severity the item has incurred, and well as what material components make up the item. In many cases, cloth items can be washed with a special cleaner, while paper documentation may need to be sent to a restoration professional.

3. A Professional Can Help

Anytime you believe you have a mold problem it’s important to contact a local mold remediation service for help. These professionals have the training needed to test for and remove any present mold from your home while preventing it’s spread to other locations. They will also have the tools and cleaners needed to help restore any household items that may have been affected.

During a mold cleaning, you may feel comforted to know that many of your personal items can be saved. It is, however, important to consult a professional about which items are salvageable, and what cleaning solution to use. The exact cleaning method will depend on the item type, and how bad the damage is. Fortunately, a mold restoration service can help.

How To Clean Up Water Damage

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Professional water extraction in Miami Gardens, FL

How To Clean Up Water Damage

Water damage to your Miami Gardens, FL, home can cause serious problems. It is important to begin cleaning the area as soon as possible to prevent further damage. The following steps outline the water cleanup process.
1. Turn off the electricity. Flooding can cause electrical problems. You will need to cut the power to the flooded area before you begin working.
2. Address the source of the water. Determine where the water is coming from and stop the flow. You may need to patch leaks, repair broken pipes or turn off the water to faulty appliances.
3. Remove standing water. If you have standing water in your home, you will need to remove it. There are specialized pumps and vacuums to help with this step, but you can also scoop it out using buckets if necessary.
4. Dry out the remaining water. After you have taken care of the standing water, many items will still be wet. You can use fans and dehumidifiers to speed the drying process. If the outside humidity is low enough, you can open windows and doors to increase airflow.
5. Sanitize affected items. Water damage is often accompanied by bacterial contamination. Make sure to fully sanitize all items. The source of the water will determine the type of cleaner that you should use. Additionally, different items will need different cleaning techniques. Delicate items may need professional cleaning.
6. Restore and replace damaged items. Throw away everything that cannot be fully dried and sanitized. These items should be replaced to avoid contamination and mold growth. Then you can begin repairing the remaining items. Some repairs you may be able to do yourself, but other items may need more specialized treatment.
Many homes incur water damage every year. Fortunately, responding quickly can prevent further harm to your property. If you feel overwhelmed by the water cleanup process, an experienced restoration service can help you every step of the way.

5 Tips for Cleaning a Gas Range

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Clean your stovetop

Five Steps In Properly Maintaining Your Stove

Having your own place in Pembroke Pines, FL comes with many opportunities for fun and freedom, but it also requires a few important responsibilities. To be safe and healthy, proper maintenance of appliances is a necessity. While a gas range does not demand a lot of attention, it is still a good practice to keep it clean and sanitary. These five steps will go a long way towards properly maintaining your stove.

Clean the Grates. This is perhaps the most basic level of range cleaning. The grates accumulate oil and grease that could catch fire, so they should be cleaned periodically. The easiest method is to take them off the range top and soak them in soap and hot water.
Clean the Stove Stop. Remove any loose crumbs or food particles with a brush or a wet dish towel. These items could catch fire and spread to more flammable items such as paper towels or curtains.
Spray With Vinegar and Water. For a more thorough cleaning of your gas range, use a mixture of vinegar and water on the range top. Let it sit, and then wipe clean. At this time, clean the stove controls and the front of the appliance.
Clean With a Small Brush. The burners and the area right next to them can get encrusted with materials. From time to time it makes sense to spend a little extra effort and take a small brush and gently work near the burners to remove debris.
Use a Vacuum. With the brush attachment, vacuum up crumbs on the range top and beneath it. This will remove any remaining debris and could reduce on smoke smell originating from leftover food.

A clean gas range will keep your kitchen clean and safe from a fire. If a fire does occur, remember to keep calm and make sure everyone is safe. If a cleanup is needed, call in a professional fire remediation team for expert services.

Simple Ways to Prepare Your Business for the Spring Thaw

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Snow in a commercial roof in Hialeah, FL

Once you’ve made it through the harsh winter weather, you need to ensure that your business in Hialeah, FL, is fully prepared for the spring. With warmer temperatures comes melting snow and ice, which can lead to flooding and other forms of water damage. To keep your commercial building safe from the effects of thawing this spring, be sure to keep the following guidelines in mind.

Inspect Your Roof

If you’ve experienced any storms or heavy snow during the winter season, it’s a good idea to conduct a thorough roof inspection. When examining your commercial roof, be sure to look for the following types of damage:

• Ice dams
  
• Sagging
  
• Snow that hasn’t melted
  
• Flashing leaks
  
• Condensation
  
  

While it’s important to give your roof a cursory examination to rule out potential damage, you should also contact a roofing professional. He or she can take care of necessary repairs and diagnose problems that you might not have noticed.

Remove Snow

To stay protected from a spring flood, one of the first things you should do is remove any snow that has accumulated on your property. If you leave any lingering snow near your building, it may leak through the foundation once it has fully melted. This can lead to flooding or a frozen pipe. Always make sure to remove all snow from your property to fully prepare for spring.

Check Your Foundation

By leaving cracks or openings in your building’s foundation, you’re inviting water to enter through and cause harm to your business. Make it a priority to examine your foundation before spring arrives and identify any issues. Remember that even small openings can lead to serious damage, so schedule any necessary repairs as soon as possible.
If a spring flood wreaks havoc on your commercial property, it can be devastating for your business. Keep your building safe from flooding by calling storm damage restoration experts immediately.

3 Advantages of Partnering Your Franchise With a Storm Cleanup Service

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

Finding migrating water in Palm Springs North, FL

Advantages to Know Before Choosing a Service

Planning for disaster recovery can be an important part of protecting your Palm Springs North, FL, franchise. Powerful storms may produce flooding and cause dirty water and debris to enter your commercial property, which can be difficult for you and your employees to clean up on your own. Partnering with a professional storm cleanup service may help your franchise survive a natural disaster. There are several advantages to know about before you choose a service.

1. Peace of Mind During Flooding

Violent storms can cause serious flooding, ruin inventory and electrical systems, and even cause potential structural damage to your building. Having a storm response team on your side may safeguard the most important areas of your business with remediation techniques that prevent floodwaters from spreading, which can give you peace of mind when severe weather hits the area.

2. Quick Response

A storm disaster recovery team can respond quickly to flooding and other types of storm damage, including problems caused by wind and hail. This immediate response may help to minimize any storm damage and offer you a variety of solutions for remediation and restoration that could help you streamline the process. The quicker the response, the better you can safeguard your franchise.

3. A Plan for the Unknown

It can be difficult to know when a sudden storm will strike, even with today’s weather forecast technology. Having a flood response and restoration service on-call can help you avoid having to search for an available response team in the midst of flooding, something that may be difficult when other businesses in the area are experiencing the same problems as a result of bad weather. Partnering with a service before disaster strikes can give you the means to reach out right away and allow you to work with a company you already trust.
When violent weather strikes Palm Springs North, FL, the results can be devastating. Partnering with a disaster recovery team can help you protect your business franchise from irreparable damage, no matter its size or niche.

Tips for Cleaning Mold From Tiles

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Ceiling damaged by mold in Miami Lakes, FL

Tips for Cleaning Mold From Tiles

Ceiling tiles in commercial buildings are long lasting and often beautiful. In certain conditions, though, they can become discolored from stains and even begin to show signs of warping. If the roof has ever leaked, or if plumbing lines have leaked water, tile mold can begin to discolor the decorative features of tiles. Discoloration is part of the tile aging process, but the appearance of mold on the tile is not normal. The mold can be a source of allergens and irritants to employees and customers alike. The presence of mold is an indication that water damage may have occurred in the past.

Normal Cleaning

In most cases, tile discoloration can be taken care of with a few simple actions. The following steps should resolve a host of tile issues:

• Clean with a wet, damp cloth
  
• Use a generic cleaner made for tiles
  
• Keep the room clean by frequent sweeping and upkeep of duct work
  
• Touch up scratches and cracks
  
• Replace as necessary
  
  

This should be enough to restore some of the glory of the tiles. In extreme cases, tile mold may require a higher level of cleaning.

Advanced Cleaning

If grit, mold, germs, and bacteria have contaminated the tiles it may be necessary to call in a professional mold mitigation company in Miami Lakes, FL. This action will result in the measuring of the humidity of each room and in finding ways to lower the moisture level in the building. Mold will only thrive in moist conditions. Air filtration systems with HEPA filters are effective in removing mold spores from the air and restoring a healthy level of indoor air quality. Once the mold is contained, then antimicrobial and anti-fungal cleaning agents are used to wipe away tile mold. Mold remediation experts that are highly trained have the advanced equipment and techniques ready to remove mold spores. They are faster to any size disaster.

3 Ways To Stop Your Fire Alarm From Beeping

12/28/2019 (Permalink)

This is also an excellent opportunity to replace the battery, if necessary.

The fire alarm is an excellent asset to your home in Miami Lakes, FL. It can detect smoke and prevent fire damage from taking place. However, its useful beeping can sometimes be activated unprovoked and at inconvenient times. A result of a glitch or other mistakes, the noise is not only an annoyance, but it also reduces the device's ability to combat fires. There are certain actions you can take to stop the alarm from beeping unnecessarily and ensure its effectiveness.

Battery Change

The most common cause behind extra beeping in smoke alarms is a drained battery. This is the way the device warns you to change it. As a rule of thumb, you should replace the battery every six months, as anything longer than that can deplete it, causing the consistent chirps. Make sure to look inside the detector to see the battery type and requirements.

Eliminate Nearby Dust

While the fire alarm is meant to detect smoke damage to alert you, there are other nearby factors that can activate it. When you inspect the alarm, take a closer look at anything in the environment that could trigger it, such as the following:

Dust
Debris
Insects and arachnids
Spider webs

Use tools such as an air blower or a duster to eliminate these elements. If left alone, they will continue to activate the device or damage it, which is dangerous in case of an actual fire.

Reset the Device

A simple technique to use on any malfunctioning device, including a smoke detector, is resetting it. You can accomplish this by turning off the power to the alarm and removing the battery and power supply. Then, remove the battery and hold the test button for at least 15 seconds before putting everything back in its place and checking for beeping. 

The constant noise of your fire alarm is not only bothersome, but it can also interfere with fire prevention, leading to evacuation and residential fire cleanup. Find the reason why the device chirps incorrectly, and fix it to prolong its life.

3 Things You Should Do After a Fire in Your Commercial Building

12/28/2019 (Permalink)

Contact your insurance company to file a fire insurance claim

3 Things You Should Do After a Fire in Your Commercial Building

Experiencing a fire in your Miramar, FL, building can be stressful. In the panic, it can be difficult to determine what should be done first. It is, of course, important to have fire restoration done as quickly as possible, so you can reduce the chances of further damage. Finishing the process sooner will also allow you to get back to work as usual. The following are some things that you should do right away.

1. File an Insurance Claim

One of the first things that you will need to do is contact your insurance company to file a fire insurance claim. Because the process can be lengthy and include a lot of paperwork, it is best to begin as soon as possible. In some cases, waiting too long to report damage can also cause your claim to be denied. You may want to document damage while you wait for an adjuster to arrive. If it is safe to do so, you should take pictures and create a list of affected areas and items.

2. Have Mitigation Done

After contacting your insurance company, you should have a remediation service perform mitigation on the building. This can include boarding up broken windows and doors as well as missing areas in walls and roofing. If sprinklers went off or a fire hose was needed to put out the flames, water will also need to be removed before fire restoration can begin.

3. Begin Cleanup and Repairs

Once mitigation has been done, restoration can begin. Smoke cleaning will need to be done in the surrounding areas, and some parts of the building may need to be rebuilt. Smaller tasks, such as replacing carpets and repainting walls, will happen during this step as well.
To get your building back into top shape quickly, you should hire a fire damage remediation company to do fire restoration as soon as possible. Waiting too long can cause damage to worsen, which can increase the time and money needed to make repairs.

Learn How To Flood-Proof Your Building

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damaged building in Pembroke Pines, FL

Learn How To Flood-Proof Your Building

You may not be able to stop a major storm from happening, but you can learn how to mitigate some of the effects before one ever hits. When it comes to severe weather, flood prevention is a major concern. Properties and even cities that are resilient to the effects of inclement weather and floodwaters are achieved through two main channels:

1. Dry flood-proofing
2. Wet flood-proofing
   

Dry Flood-Proofing
This method of flood-proofing involves altering existing structures or building new structures that will remain dry during storms. New buildings can be erected on filler such as sand or gravel. Filler coupled with heavy plastic helps provide a waterproof base. Another method is to raise structures above the expected flood level. Stilts are commonly used in this scenario, though they cannot be used for all building types. Structures that can't be raised should have strong walls or berms to divert floodwaters. The closure and seal method is another effective flood prevention tactic. This involves sealing areas of a building that are below the expected flood level. No matter which method or combination of methods you prefer, you should consult with a qualified engineer to ensure your structure's safety.

Wet Flood-Proofing
Wet flood-proofing comes into play when your structure has been affected by floodwaters. When you can't stop the water from coming in, you can still minimize the damage. You should protect what you can with heavy plastic coverings or bags. Remove valuables and items that can be destroyed by water damage. Seal off water and sewer systems and turn off all utilities. Give the water a path - once it is inside, it also needs a way to flow out. You should also contact qualified professionals in water damage restoration to develop a flood cleaning plan.
If you want to take steps to flood-proof your Pembroke Pines, FL, building, use this information. Flood prevention strategies such as these can be combined to help minimize the negative effects of natural disasters.

3 Things to Know About Sewer Damage Cleanup

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Sewer backup in a Miami Gardens, FL bathroom

3 Things to Know About Sewer Damage Cleanup

As a homeowner in Miami Gardens, FL, there’s a chance you may have to deal with a sewer cleanup at some point over the life of your home. As such it’s important to understand a few things about sewer water and how to go about the cleanup process.

1. It’s Important To Understand Sewer Water

It’s important to understand that sewer backup of any kind falls into the black water category. This means it can come into contact with fecal matter or other sources of bacteria that can contaminate the home. Because of this any area that has come in contact with overflow from a sewer source needs to be cleaned thoroughly and then sanitized with special cleaners.

2. It’s Necessary To Wear Safety Gear

Regardless of if a sewer cleanup is the result of a flooded toilet or a backed up pipe, it’s important to wear the proper safety gear while in the contaminated area. These may include coveralls, a face mask, gloves, and shoe covers. This gear is designed to keep sewage from coming in contact with the skin, and may be disposable or washed in very hot water.

3. It’s Best To Call a Professional

If you have a sewage overflow in your home it’s best to contact a water damage restoration service to perform the cleanup. These professionals can handle a variety of water damage types, including sewage, as well as the cleaning and restoration that may be necessary as well. They should also have the necessary equipment and professional gear to do so safely.
It’s important to remember that sewer water falls into the black water category when conducting a sewer cleanup. This means that it’s important to follow safety measures, such as wearing protective gear, to avoid spreading bacteria and other contamination. You should also consider calling a professional to ensure the cleanup is done correctly, and the affected area properly sanitized.

How Media Blasting Can Repair Your Crawlspace's Mold Damage

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

If you are unfamiliar with the practice, continue reading to learn more about what it is, how it works and why professionals employ it.

Heavy rain and flooding can affect every corner of your home in Miami Lakes, FL. While it can be easy to repair the resulting mold and water damage in some areas, the crawlspace presents a unique challenge for mold remediation specialists. One of the most reliable techniques they use is called media blasting.

What Is Media Blasting?

Media blasting occurs when someone uses an air-powered gun, the blaster, to fire and spread a substance throughout large areas at a high speed. This method used to be known as sandblasting, but now technicians use a variety of substances for different purposes. In mold cleanup, the abrasive substance sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is used to remove the mold. This procedure is sometimes known as soda blasting.

What Is the Process?

Every mold case is different and requires specific treatment. However, media blasters follow a general routine for each crawlspace:

Mold inspection and assessment
Soda blasting of wooden surfaces and corners
Wiping and vacuuming the area to remove all mold
Detecting and controlling remaining humidity to prevent further mold damage

Each step is essential in the mold removal process. The specialists check the area carefully and use the right treatment to stop further damage.

Why Is This Method Used?

Mold removal via media blasting is ideal for areas that are difficult to access physically. Blasting the baking soda with air pressure allows the cleanup technicians to quickly spread it throughout the effected area. Additionally, baking soda is a harmless substance that does not damage wood, is not toxic to others and is environmentally friendly.
Water can damage any part of your Miami Lakes, FL home, including the crawlspace. Consult a remediation professional to see if media blasting is the right solution for your mold situation.

Avoiding a Major Roof Repair

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

Schedule roof inspections to your home

Avoiding a Major Roof Repair

When harsh weather rolls through Hialeah Gardens, FL, it can knock off shingles, creating unnoticeable roof damage. In fact, you may only discover it as wet rings appear on the ceiling. By that point, water has probably accumulated, possibly contributing to mold. Believe it or not, this headache can often be avoided by catching problems early. Rather than wait for the unexpected, use these tips to be proactive in your roof care.

1. Schedule Frequent Inspections

Many homeowners know the value of having someone look over the air units, but few probably hire a company to regularly survey the roof for wind damage. Inspections help catch minor issues before they become something problematic. While you may not expect shingle problems, they are possible. Once winds reach over 50 miles per hour, they can knock off parts, causing holes and leaving areas exposed to water leakage. Call a specialist annually or biannually to review the property for roof damage. Add an extra visit if your area has experienced any of these severe weather events:

• Hurricanes
  
• Hail storms
  
• High Winds
  
• Blizzards
  
• Tornadoes
  
  

2. Know What To Look For

When professionals examine the roof, they should take care to check for any missing shingles and immediately cover affected areas with boards or a tarp. Don't stop there, however. Make sure the sealant is solid, preventing water penetration, and check for rust and corrosion. Any vulnerable spaces should be resealed or replaced as soon as possible. Have the specialist test below the surface level, ensuring that moisture is not sitting in the interior layers. If you suspect water intrusion, contact a water restoration company for remediation needs. Fixing the smaller items now might avoid the need for a full roof replacement.

3. Prepare to File a Claim

For large claims, contact your insurance agent and be prepared to show documentation for both the weather occurrence and the roof destruction. Throughout the process, take pictures and save receipts.
Be proactive and catch obstacles early with an inspection for recent roof damage. Take measures to fix problems immediately and help avoid an expensive roof replacement.

Home Water Damage: What Your Insurance Will Cover

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

If your damage is due to a flood, you will not file an insurance claim with your insurance company.

If you have experienced a home flood, you know it can be stressful on multiple levels. Among other questions, you may be wondering whether your homeowner’s insurance will cover your lost property and the cleanup and restoration services. The answer is that it depends.

Water-related damage is covered under two areas of insurance, depending on the source of the water. Your general homeowner’s policy will likely have provisions for covering a water disaster, but it will have exclusions for floodwater. This discussion of the two types of coverage may help answer your questions.

Conventional Water Damage Insurance

Your damage will be covered by your homeowner’s policy if the excess water did not originate from the exterior ground level, as would be the case with floodwater. These are some examples of circumstances that are covered.


Broken pipes in appliances, such as washing machines and ice makers
Broken pipes from freezing weather
Leaking water heaters
Roof leaks from heavy rain or snow
Water entering a window broken by hail or a tree branch


Water damage policies can vary greatly in deductibles and limits. Your agent can provide details about coverage and help you file an insurance claim.

Flood Insurance

If your flood was caused by rising floodwater or leaks in your foundation, you would be covered only if you had purchased a separate flood insurance policy issued by the government. Your insurance agent or city planning official can help you assess your flood risk, so you can determine whether you need to purchase flood insurance. The rates may vary considerably by state and will generally be commensurate with the risk in your area.

Researching insurance options and assessing your risk is a good first step toward home flood preparedness. If you experience water damage in your Miami Lakes, FL home and need to file an insurance claim, you will know which insurance entity to approach, so you can start down the road to restoring your home and your peace of mind.

The Who, What, When, Where and Why of Basement Flooding

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Take this slow and assess your situation before moving forward.

Flooding is a phenomenon that can humble a homeowner in Miami Lakes, FL. The power of water is always intimidating to face. 

Why Is It Flooded?
A basement flood can come from a lot of different places. Oftentimes those sources are out of your control. If the flood is weather related, you will need to wait until the storm has passed and your yard is no longer flooded before you can do anything about your basement. Some common examples of sources of flooding are:

Heavy rain or storm
Pipe rupture
Appliance malfunction
Improper basement sealing

What Can You Do?
The first thing you should take care of is stopping the flow of water, if possible, by turning off the main water line. Then you can minimize the hazard to your safety by turning off the electricity and wearing protective gear like boots and gloves. You can rent submersible pumps from hardware or construction stores to get all the water out of there. Be sure to point the loose end of the pump away from the house, preferably into a storm drain. Then you will need thoroughly dry everything so that you don't end up growing mold, as well.

Who Should You Call?

If you don't have any experience with pumps, it's probably a good idea to call a professional water damage remediation company. They have specialized knowledge and tools to thoroughly remove all signs that there was a flood. They can handle every aspect of the situation, including pipe repair. They will also know exactly what will need to be thrown away, and what can be restored. You should also call your insurance to find out if they will cover the costs.

Each and every flooding scenario is different, depending on the circumstances of its origin and the capabilities of your household. Exercise precaution and don't make any hasty decisions. Your basement is counting on you!

How To Handle a Leaky Kitchen Sink

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Let the experts evaluate your damage & create a long lasting solution. 

Minor leaks can become big problems, especially if left unattended for a long amount of time. Kitchen sinks, for example, can sometimes drip on the bottom floorboard, allowing water to accumulate over time. This may seem like a minor issue, one that you can just wipe away, but it's not always that simple. These leaks, if left unattended could create flooding issues or mold damage. Take the time to evaluate the situation and correct any problems as soon as possible. This could help avoid costly repairs down the road.

1. Turn It Off and Clean It Up
Water in home spaces can create major issues, even if it seems small. Those drips over time create a moist, damp surface. This is a breeding ground for mold. Stop this from happening by taking immediate action. Head straight for the cut off valve, located underneath the sink. Then, assess the area and try to do some clean up, keeping safety as a priority. A plumber should inspect the pipes and fix any issues.

2. Make a Claim
Locate your home insurance company's information, and call them right away. It's important that you file a claim for flooding damage and speak with an agent as soon as possible. They should be able to approve your need for water restoration. As you discuss this issue, go over the policy's coverage, deductible, and anything needed to validate your claim. Write out the name of the agent with whom you are speaking and note the time of the call. When you hang up, snap as many pictures as possible of your home's need for repairs.

3. Seek Repairs
Getting your kitchen repair complete is important, so work with water restoration company in Miami Lakes, FL to evaluate your property and get it back in working order. Have them come in the quickly. Not only can they use dehumidifiers to dry out the area, but they can assess the room's needs and help salvage some water-damaged items. 
If you notice a leak under your sink, immediately turn off the water supply to prevent flooding. Then, call in the professionals to evaluate the situation and fix any problems.

Repair Basics for Leaky Roofs

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Ceiling collapsed from a storm in Miami Springs, FL

What To Expect When Cleaning Up A Leaking Roof

If your business or commercial building has suffered storm damage, you may find yourself with a roof leak. As with any type of water problem, a leaky roof should be addressed immediately. It may not seem like a big deal, but over time, even a small leak can lead to issues such as damaged ceilings, mold, wood rot, and destroyed insulation. Here are some guidelines for what to expect when cleaning up a leaking roof.

1. Removing Wet and Damaged Materials

Once the roof leak has been identified, it's time to start cleanup and restoration both inside and outside. The area must be cleared of ruined and damp materials. You should remove items from the water's path as much as possible. Cover objects that cannot be moved with plastic to prevent mold and water damage from developing. Contain as much water as you can from your damaged roof with buckets or other large containers. This can be a very big job and many leaks will require professional cleaning and restoration services.

2. Drying and Disinfecting the Affected Area

Once the area has been cleared of wet materials, it needs to be thoroughly dried out and disinfected. You may be able to dry some items yourself, such as small furnishings and personal items. Keep the area as well-ventilated as you can. Larger storm cleanup projects require professionals since they have the proper training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation.

3. Restoring Roof and Ceilings

After the affected area is dry and clean, the restoration process can begin. Repair needs will depend on the extent of the destruction sustained. Restoration often includes replacing missing shingles, repairing damaged gutters and downspouts, and fixing flashing around vents and chimneys.
Finding a roof leak in your Miami Springs, FL, building doesn't have to become a headache. Take action as soon as possible to prevent bigger problems. Contact a water damage remediation specialist to manage the situation quickly, and you'll be back in business in a snap.

4 Ways to Protect Your Business from Flooding

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

While floods can be chaotic and devastating, developing a flood prevention strategy can keep your business afloat.

Business owners in Miami Lakes, FL know that it isn’t a matter of if but when a storm will create flooding. When that excessive moisture makes streams, creeks and rivers surge, it can feel like you are just hoping for the best. Below are four strategies to have ahead of the waters.

1. Continuity Plan
While one hopes the worst never happens, planning ahead for it can make all the difference. Recovering from a disaster is much more difficult if you are unprepared. A continuity plan should include four key elements:

Identify potential flood or other disaster risks.
Assess vital business functions and what is required to maintain them, such as communication systems, machinery or distribution methods.
Develop controls to minimize the impact of an emergency situation. Depending on this business, this may mean keeping important documents off site or moving critical equipment to a higher floor.
A plan only works if it is tested regularly and everyone in the company knows how to execute it.

2. Flood Insurance
Standard insurance policies typically do not include flood coverage. Although an additional cost, it’s worth it to have peace of mind that your property and flood cleaning will be covered.

3. Preventive Maintenance
If you own the building out of which your business operates, staying on track with general maintenance can keep excessive rainfall from building up. Regularly clean gutters, roofs and downspouts. If you don’t own the building, speak with the property manager to have a clear understanding of the maintenance schedule.

4. Water Barriers
For many businesses, the key to flood prevention is incorporating barriers. From simple measures like retaining walls and planting more vegetation to having sophisticated metal flood barriers or aqua-barrier dams, these work to displace the water and keep it from entering a building.
While flood prevention is important for any business owner, Mother Nature has a way of doing what she wants. If flooding overpowers your safety measures, rely on trusted professionals to get your business back on track.

4 Ways Hail Could Damage Your Business

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

After the storm passes, you may want to conduct an inspection of your own. If you happen to find any sort of damage, call a professional asap.

Hail is more common in some areas of the country than in others, but when hail does hit Miami Lakes, FL the damage to business property can be serious. Depending on the size of the chunks of ice the type of harm could range from minor roof damage to long-lasting effects inside your buildings.

Damage to the Roof

Of course, the roof is often the first part of the property to be affected by hail damage. Roof damage may include minor dents or dings, or it could include broken and missing shingles. A storm damage cleanup and restoration professional is the best person to identify the extent of roof damage. You don't want to leave your business at risk because you overlooked a spot where shingles are missing.

Broken Windows

A single broken pane of glass exposes the interior of your business to extensive water damages. Hailstones often reach speeds as much as 100 miles an hour. When those hurtling ice stones make contact with your inventory or your equipment, the chance of property damage naturally increases. Of course, there's also the chance that your personnel or customers could be hit by hail, as well.

Property Attached to Your Building

If you have signage, air conditioning units, or any other belongings attached to or set up near your building, large pieces of hail could naturally harm the property. If you have the chance, it's best to move these items inside before the storm gets very bad.

Water Leaks

One of the worst problems caused by hail damage is the long-lasting, hard to recognize type. If water gets into your building, it could soak into the insulation or support the growth of mold in the attic. If you suspect any damage, contact professionals to complete repairs before extensive property or roof damage takes place.

Why Is Flood Water Called Black Water?

10/18/2019 (Permalink)

Call on the trained professionals from your local water remediation company to help.

You already know that flood water can causes headache and bring your business's daily operations to a grinding, damp halt. What you may not know is that water from flooding is commonly classified into three categories that reflect the level of hazard involved. Category 3 water, also known as "black water," is the most dangerous of the three.

What Is Category 3 Water?

Water that falls into Category 3 contains sewage and other substances that aren't safe for human contact, such as bacteria and other pathogens. These contaminants can originate in a variety of places:

Toilet backflow
A broken sewer main
Sewage ditches
Septic tank and sewage line seepage
Storm damage

Because of the hazards associated with contaminated flood water, its cleanup is best left to trained water remediation specialists.
What's the Difference Between Water Categories?
Category 3 water is the "dirtiest" water, hence the nickname. Category 2 water, known as gray water, also contains potentially hazardous materials, but they come from interior sources, such as a dishwasher or shower. Category 1 water is clean water.

There are additional subcategories within these categories themselves as well. For example, black water is sorted into three levels based on the severity of the flooding. Level 1 water includes minor floods confined to small areas, such as an overflowing toilet. Level 2 water also refers mainly to minor indoor floods, except that these floods cover more ground and hold the potential to cause more extensive damage because of their reach. The most severe incidents of water damage are considered Level 3. In these situations, contaminated water enters the building from the outside and can cause considerable destruction.
When flooding occurs at your commercial property in Miami Lakes, FL you may be tempted to clean up the premises yourself. Instead of risking exposure to contaminated flood water, use trained professionals from a water remediation company to help.

How to Keep Your Beloved Pets Safe if Your Home Catches on Fire

10/13/2019 (Permalink)

Remember to include your pet in your fire escape plan

In a fire emergency, you’re going to be seriously pressed for time and will be under about as much stress as is possible. When you realize an active fire is in your home, having a plan and thoroughly practicing it can be the difference between life and death for you and your family – including your pets. With a few simple steps, you can dramatically increase pet safety and give them an excellent chance of surviving the fire in Palm Springs North, FL.

Think About Being Ready Now, While There’s No Pressure

With some pet preparation and a plan in place, the risks of serious injury to your pets drops considerably. Here’s what you should do in advance:

• Have all pet vaccinations and ownership records in your fire safe or safety deposit box.
  
• Include all your pets in your family plan.
  
• Practice your escape plan with your entire family, including the pets.
  
• Learn where your pets like to sleep and hide.
  
• Get your pets used to crating.
  
  
  

Your Family Plan

From the time the smoke detectors go off, you may have as little as one or two minutes to escape – every second is a jewel beyond price in a fire emergency. With plenty of smoke alarms – especially newer ones that are wirelessly linked – you can raise your time to get out. Either way, follow the National Fire Protection Association’s recommendations to create a family plan, know all the escape routes and designate a meeting place for your family.

Practice that Plan!

Animals like fire even less than people. Practice the plan, get your pets used to it with plenty of treats, and make a game of it. If you know where a stressed pet is likely to hide, you can quickly scoop them up and get out. If you have time, get them into crates.

Hopefully, everyone is safe, and your home has survived the fire emergency. Once the fire is out, contact an experienced restoration company in Palm Springs North, FL, to board up the house and begin the fire damage cleanup, so you can get your home back to its previous condition.

4 Steps to a Solid Business Continuity Plan

9/28/2019 (Permalink)

You need a business continuity plan that you can put in place if this happens.

Water damage in your commercial building in Miami Lakes, FL, requires professional remediation. Depending on the extent of the damage, it may also require you to vacate the premises while repairs are made. You need a business continuity plan that you can put in place if this happens. Here are four steps for coming up with such a plan.

1. Analyze Essential Services

Every business has key things that have to happen to keep it afloat. These are the essential services. You must figure out a way to continue these services if you are going to stay in business while water mitigation experts restore your building. Create a questionnaire for key personnel in order to determine what these services are.
2. List Necessary Resources

Once you have established the bare bones of your operation, you must determine the resources you need to carry them out. This list should include supplies, equipment and personnel required.

3. Form a Recovery Team

Your business continuity plan needs people who are in charge of carrying it out. It's always good to know who is responsible for which aspects of your business, but in an emergency situation, this knowledge is essential. Your recovery team decides how to implement the emergency response plan so that it can go off without a hitch.

4. Train and Practice

Everyone who holds a responsibility during the continuity period needs to know exactly what to do. There should be formal training for the continuity process. Actually simulating the process through practice can help you identify any problems or glitches that keep it from running smoothly. That way, you can fix problems so that they don't happen if you need the process in reality.

Any extensive repairs to your building can mean that you need to evacuate and operate elsewhere. A solid business continuity plan can help you make the transition happen more easily.

3 Reasons You Shouldn't Wait for an Insurance Adjuster After Your Home Sustains Storm Damage

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

File a claim by filling out the necessary paperwork

There are Several Reasons You Shouldn't Wait For An Adjuster

After storm damage occurs, making an insurance claim is often a priority for homeowners. Many homeowners in Miami Lakes, FL, aren't sure if they should wait for their flood insurance adjuster to visit their homes before beginning restoration. However, there are several reasons you shouldn't wait for an adjuster to start restoration.

1. Your Home May Sustain Further Damage the Longer You Wait

If you wait for your insurance adjuster to visit your home before beginning cleanup and restoration, more damage is likely to occur to your home. In addition to water damage, mold damage can occur within a matter of days if water remains in your home. Flood damage restoration professionals can often help to mitigate the damage quickly, which can decrease the cost of your insurance claim and can help to reduce the amount of time necessary to complete restoration.

2. You Can Still File a Claim if You Provide Documentation

Though some homeowners may be concerned about the status of their claim before an insurance adjuster visits, there's no need to worry. You don't need to wait for an adjuster to assess your home before you can make an insurance claim. If you have flood insurance, you can file a claim with your insurance provider by filling out the necessary paperwork and including additional documentation.

3. Insurance Adjusters May Not Arrive Quickly

Though your insurance company is likely to send an adjuster as soon as possible after your home sustains damage, that doesn't necessarily mean that your insurance adjuster will visit quickly. When many houses in your area are affected by flooding, your insurance adjuster will have to asses many homes, which can be time-consuming. As a result, you may have to wait an extended period of time if you begin cleanup and restoration after your insurance adjuster assesses your home.

As a homeowner with flood insurance, it's wise to know when you can begin cleaning and restoring your home. You often don't need to wait for an insurance adjuster, as your home could sustain further damage, you can file an insurance claim if you provide documentation and your insurance adjuster may not visit your home immediately.

Why Mold Grows in Your Home and How To Address the Problem

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Regularly wipe away moisture to keep mold from growing around the window sill

Why Mold Grows In Your Home?

Mold is found naturally in the environment. It actually helps break down animal and plant matter. The mold then spreads via spores that are transported by animals, air and water. However, excess black mold in your Palm Springs North, FL, home can cause major damage.
If you see a large section of mold in your house, then you probably have a moisture problem. That’s because mold thrives in damp areas. There are numerous possible sources of wetness in your home, including:

• Condensation
  
• Plumbing or roof leaks
  
• Kitchen or bathroom steam
  
• Poor ventilation of cooking appliances
  
• Wet clothes
  
• A dryer that vents indoors
  
• Flooding
  
• Broken pipes or supply lines
  
• Humidity
  
  

How To Prevent Mold Growth

Some parts of your home are consistently moist and are thus particularly prone to black mold growth. These include window moldings, refrigerator door seals, air conditioners and bathrooms. You should thus clean and dry these areas regularly to prevent mold damage.

Eliminating Mold

If you do notice mold in your house, the first step is to find and eliminate the source of the moisture. Otherwise, the mold will keep coming back.
You can then begin the mold cleanup process. You should discard any porous materials with mold on them, such as carpeting, paper and drywall. You should similarly throw out anything that can't be completely dried.
You may be able to remove smaller patches of black mold on hard surfaces with soap and water. You can also try a strong cleaner. Either way, make sure to protect yourself with an N95 mask and rubber gloves.
If the fungus takes up more than 10 square feet of space, you should call your local mold remediation professionals. Besides thoroughly cleaning and drying your home, they may also restore valuable items.
This black mold cleanup can be costly and time-consuming, however. Your best bet is thus to prevent mold growth by keeping your home as dry as possible.

How To Test Home Fire Alarms

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Periodic testing increases the likelihood that safety equipment will operate as intended in the event of a fire.

A residential fire safety plan should factor in the number and placement of fire alarm devices in a home. Follow these three steps to test fire alarms at your home in Hialeah, FL, and determine whether additional equipment could increase occupant safety and reduce the risk of major fire damage.

Step 1: Check Alarm Count
Residences should have a fire alarm on each floor. The National Fire Protection Agency also recommends installing an alarm outside of each bedroom or sleeping area. A two-story home with two bedrooms or sleeping areas would need two to four fire alarms. It is also a good idea to install and maintain alarms in basements or attics.
Step 2: Press the Test Button
Whether you rely on battery-powered or hardwired alarms or smoke detector designs, these safety devices come with test features. If the device or system does not emit sound, it may be necessary to replace batteries or check wiring.
Step 3: Confirm Alarm Locations
While an alarm is beeping, you can check the range of the sound. If you cannot hear a sleeping area alarm in your bedroom, another smoke alarm or a connected hardwired or smart system that activates all of the alarms at once may be helpful for promoting safety.

By taking these steps, you can make sure that your home has the amount of alarms recommended by the NFPA and other fire safety authorities. Situating alarms in critical locations or upgrading to a hardwired or smart fire alarm system may allow more time for evacuation or extinguishing efforts. A blaze may still break out and cause fire and smoke damage or a total loss. For an expert opinion and accurate all-in-one estimate, consult with damage mitigation and restoration specialists in Hialeah, FL. Visit https://www.SERVPROmiamilakes.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration for more information on fire tips. 

What To Do When You Smell Natural Gas

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

A visit from your local emergency services is far cheaper than risking your life or having to repair your home after a gas fire.

Natural gas leaks are nothing to joke about. When ignored or left unnoticed, in the worst-case scenario, a gas explosion can occur, causing incredible damage and casualties. Unfortunately, these types of accidents happen more frequently in Hialeah, FL than they should, so it’s important to know what you can do to stop the problem immediately or at least keep your family out of harm’s way.

Rotten Egg Smell in the House

If you have been sitting at home and just suddenly begin to smell natural gas, especially accompanied by a hissing or high-pitched whistling noise, it’s ultimately up to you to determine whether it’s safe to find the source of the leak.

Verify that gas stove knobs are all turned off. Bumping them without noticing is very easy!
Do not turn any lights on or light any matches, as that could spark a gas fire.
Open all windows and doors until you can no longer smell the rotten-egg smell.
If the gas is not coming from your stove or any other easily identifiable location, find your gas meter and turn it off. This may require a wrench to adjust the valve to the “off” position. Gas meters are often located in the basement or outside the home. Ideally, you will know where it is and how to do this before an emergency situation or potential gas fire occurs.

Safety First

Only take these steps if you are fully confident that the situation has not escalated into an emergency. Natural gas is incredibly flammable, and a gas fire can far too easily break out. If you haven’t been home and walk into a house filled with that rotten egg smell, it is probably safer to stay outside, preferably some distance away like across the street, and call 911.

Time permitting, open a window from the outside and if your gas meter is outside, turn it off. If you have trouble deciding what to do, take the safest route and evacuate. Visit https://www.SERVPROmiamilakes.com/ for more information on fire damage. 

Eliminating Pet Odors In Your Home

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

Pet Odor removal can be challenging

You love your pets, but that doesn’t mean you have to stand the way they make your house smell. Pet odor is something you can manage with a few simple actions and changes. They key is focusing on the source before addressing any lingering odors.

These are the cleaning activities you should do:

1. Vacuum regularly the entire house

2. Use an enzyme cleaner

3. Clean the carpets

4. Clean the Furniture

5. Give your pet a bath

6. Wash your Pet’s bed

7. Wash your bed sheets and covers

8. Clean your pet’s toys and accessories.

9. Replace the Litter

10. Clean their cage

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Miami Lakes is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors.

We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor, and determining the conditions where it contacts surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

Biohazard Cleaning

4/23/2019 (Permalink)

Biohazard Cleaning at a Condo Unit

Biohazard cleaning is the process of removing, disinfecting and sanitizing materials and/or structures affected by biohazardous waste such as bodily fluids, blood, chemicals, and other substances that poses a threat to humans, animals or the environment.

Although certification is not a requirement to clean up a biohazard loss, due to its potentially infectious nature, it is highly advisable to hire a company who is trained in OSHA standards to remediate safely and properly. SERVPRO of Miami Lakes has been trained in OSHA standards and has an operating permit from the State of Florida Department of Health for Biomedical waste.

Did you know that the final disposal of all biohazardous waste must be in accordance with local state regulations? (See https://www.osha.gov/law…/standardinterpretations/2009-06-02 for more details). It may seem like you can just mop up the hazardous waste but there are health risks involved if you are not properly protected. If you choose to clean up the mess and dispose of the waste in a regular garbage receptacle, you run the risk of penalties and hefty fines.

We at SERVPRO of Miami Lakes are trained and equipped to restore a property from crime scenes, unattended deaths, filth, hoarding and other infectious hazardous cleaning. We are here to relieve the burden of clean up and restore your home back to clean, sanitary and safe conditions.

For more information call 305-558-6211

How to Prepare for a Hurricane

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane Florence view from Space

Hurricane season is fast approaching. Here are some tips on how to better prepare yourself for a hurricane or large storm.

1. Listen to NOAA Weather alerts to stay informed.
2. Regularly prune dead branches from trees and cut down any dead trees in order to minimize damage.
3. Prepare a disaster kit and a first aid kit and store it in an easily accessible location.
4. Put documents, valuables and clothing in water proof bags.
5. Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least 5 days.
6. Store at least a 5 day supply of non-perishable food.
7. Make sure you have a flash light.
8. Extra Batteries.
9. Manual can opener.
10. Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
11. Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
12. Reinforce doors and windows with wooden panels nailed down if you don’t have shutters.
13. Bring inside any object that may be caught up by the wind. These items may become dangerous projectiles if not taken inside or secured.
14. Bring pets inside and safely house them inside their pet carriers.
15. Follow safety instructions on the radio or television.
16. If evacuation orders are issued by authorities, act quickly.
17. Switch off power supply and unplug electrical appliances.
18. Limit any traveling. If you must go out, be sure to contact family or friends and let them know where you are going.

For more information on how to prepare for a hurricane, please visit https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

Did you like these tips? Is there something you would like to add to the list? Leave a comment below with any additional tips or ideas. One can never be too prepared.

Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce: Major Commander

4/11/2018 (Permalink)

Major Ruiz with the Marketing Team

Presentation of Major Javier Ruiz, Town Commander

We participated in the Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon today. The main speaker was Major Javier Ruiz, Town Commander of the Police force.

Major Ruiz has over 22 years of experience. He started his career as a police officer in the Miami-Dade Police Department, then he was assigned to the NW District which he then patrolled the Town of Miami Lakes area and surrounding unincorporated areas.

He continued growing in his career. In September 2017 he was promoted as the Town Commander and returned where he started: Miami Lakes.

In view of the recent events in parkland (mass shooting) he talked about safety in the work environment and made some recommendations like knowing the nearest exits, being aware of the surroundings and be aggressive when being hurt even if the person does not like to show aggression.

During a dangerous situation, Major Javier Ruiz said there are differences responses that a person does when he/she is in that position: People either freeze, fight, or flee the area, so be aware and conscientious always during those times. Make the best, wise decisions.

He also recommended we should have an emergency plan in regards to these situations to have assurance of the safety in others, like having full contact of your employees just in case they flee we will know where they went. As well, treating this situation like if it was for your family members, that’s how they teach them in the Police Academy.

We thank again Major Javier Ruiz for this wonderful presentation, just like us in SERVPRO of Miami Lakes, we want to ensure the safety of others before it is too late during in case of difficult times!

Emergency Ready Plan

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

ERP App

Hurricane Season? It is almost around the corner and we are going to ensure our clients to make sure they are ready for this Hurricane Season in SERVPRO Miami Lakes. We have to start planning right now, not even closer to the date because it is essential for our clients’ business to be up running through these critical times. There is a study that nearly 50% of the business may never recover after a following disaster. Always having that pre-prepared mindset make the matter of a difference. Clients using SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile can definitely reduce significantly business interruption by having a plan in mind, as well can give our clients a key to a sensible mitigation.

Being prepared it is not only for the big things, but also small water leak, or even can have a full blown flood in the area. To learn from this, it is about being prepared and doing this beforehand. As our clients, we want to make sure they can answer the question if they can handle this storm and be ready what comes after it.

Clients ask what an emergency ready profile is. We used this Emergency Ready Profile for our clients to ensure their important information, the ability to start mitigation and recovery services will be rather quickly and of course, effectively. Clients using this free service can definitely impact to see the benefits that this company has done over 40 years for any natural or even mankind disasters.

There are more advantages for our clients to have this:

• There is no allocated funds at all.
• The completion will take away the clients’ essential times from their important duties.
• This can actually help the client minimize the time spent of their business that has been sedentary by having a plan of action.
• The client will already have someone in charge in case of any situations that can occur.
• As well the client can command us to start the job, and saves the business time and money
• With this emergency ready plan, the client will have easier access to the references whom they need to call after the disaster and be ready for what happens in their business.

Ask the SERVPRO Miami Lakes Representatives right away to start the FREE Emergency Ready Plan Profile. We are here to help the community. Let us help you prevent any inactivity in your business.

GMBHA Evening Networker

2/28/2018 (Permalink)

GMBHA members

SERVPRO of Miami Lakes is very involved throughout the community and especially in the Hotel industry. We were part of their Networker event for Greater Miami & The Beaches Association. It was a great time to experience different General Managers in the hotel industries. The connections that we had made were great. It was a true reminder on helping service the community around us.

With that being said, GMBHA is an organization to promote interest to their members by advocacy, education and of course indeed partnerships that had advanced Miami as visitors in a choice manner. Not only that they are responsible to make they are advocating on key issues that in the hotel industry, and for us as SERVPRO of Miami Lakes/Doral to be as highly aware of what is truly going on, not only that to help build strong rapport to these prospective clients, discuss their issues. This organization is part as an advocate to the local, state and national levels.

They are known for so many events over 45 of them including breakfast, evening networkers, seminars and luncheons featuring industry leaders throughout the year. This organization has shown great gratitude to us, and helping them as well to check out on how we can help them in case of emergencies, not only that but in other ways to help in the hotel industry. There are other clients that we had served and they are also part of the organization as well. Being connected to other organization can ensure SERVPRO of Miami Lakes productivity and growth in helping the community; making sure we are the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world. We have to continue on growing as a team. As a team we can become successful. As a team we can make it into a reality. We are truly are grateful to serve the community as a whole.

Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce Luncheon

1/29/2018 (Permalink)

As SERVPRO of Miami Lakes,  we are active in the community and especially in the Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce. We had a luncheon on January 10^th, 2017. The main speaker, Mayor Manny Cid was discussing about the transportation and traffic that Miami Lakes as a whole and the changes that were being changed in regards to that. There were little cars that are being added to the community that can transport place to place absolutely free called the “Freebee” in the Miami Lakes area, this is such a great opportunity, less cars in the road and less traffic that is surely needed in the city.

The traffic had increased overtime and the population in the area has well. They had been implementing ideas yearly to enforce less traffic and had a plan to raise funds for this concept of reducing traffic.

In Miami Lakes as well the Town Council and residents will be making one of their biggest decisions for their own town’s future. They will be choosing a new town manager and a field of candidates to fill up four council. He also mentioned and the town manager Alex Rey’s legislative abilities to accomplish goals and objectives for their Miami Lakes Strategic & Master Plans in 2017 should serve as a model in the future.

                As well, the town will eventually experience more ability to move around in N.W. 59 Ave and N.W. 79 Court after the Miami-Dade Transportation Planning Organization’s governing board approved $2 million project, which included variety of things in the city like new sidewalks, safe pedestrian crossings, and bike lanes along the roads of N.W. 59 Ave between N.W. 154 & 176 Streets.

This will start this new Cid said, the changes in the Miami Lakes Area. This will make the difference in the area we live in.