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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Blog Posts

Skip DIY in Plantation - Hire Expert Mold Damage Repair

1/16/2023 (Permalink)

Our IICRC trained techs can safely remediate any scope of mold damage. Call us today!

Call SERVPRO 24/7 for Rapid Mold Cleanup

Mold remediation is a painstaking process that is not best suited for a DIY. If you are wondering why it is best to call skilled technicians when you notice microbial growth within your Plantation property, SERVPRO has the answers. Our trained and IICRC-certified technicians are available in the area for residential and commercial mold cleanup, ensuring our customers get the results they deserve. We never stop until we can make everything “Like it never even happened.”

Why is hiring professionals for mold damage restoration best in Plantation? You may see products on store shelves that claim to remove mold, but this is just a marketing ploy. To safely address fungi that have taken up residence in your home, you must understand them, carefully clean surfaces, and know the best ways to eliminate musty odors. SERVPRO has all the training, equipment, and effective cleaning products to get the job done.

Some steps our knowledgeable IICRC trained technicians take for mold remediation projects include:

  • Using specialized vacuums to pull up spores and loosened debris
  • Carefully wiping surfaces with cleaning solutions and anti-microbial agents
  • Agitation measures, including wire brushing, sanding, or soda blasting
  • Dehumidification and drying to address the root cause of the moisture issue

The last thing any property owner wants to encounter is a repeat infestation after mold cleanup. SERVPRO’s technicians go the extra mile to ensure ample cleaning and restoration of your interior relative humidity (RH) to keep spores from thriving and colonizing again. Once we are finished with all cleanup, repair, and reconstruction of damaged areas, we will give your home or business the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned seal of approval.

No matter the scope of your mold damage, SERVPRO of Plantation/Sunrise SE has the process and trained technicians to address it accordingly. Call us today or request help online at your earliest convenience.

The Focus of Restoration for Fire Damage in Plantation

12/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can handle everything from removing fire damaged debris to reconstruction. Call us today!

Mitigative Steps of Fire Damage Restoration

With restoration projects for residences, the earliest actions to begin recovery often impact its success and timeline. When disasters strike, we prioritize a prompt mitigative response that includes several key objectives.

Debris Removal and Cleanup

Starting the restoration of fire damage in Planation involves understanding the earliest actions needed to protect the property and its occupants from more significant harm. Mitigation of fire losses starts with removing debris on the flooring and horizontal surfaces heaped from the combustion processes. Eliminating waste, ash, and charred material remnants lessens soot concentrations and smoke odor severity.

Addressing Soot and Smoke Buildup

Deposits of smoke solids on surfaces can be a formidable obstacle for restoration professionals, so our SERVPRO team must work quickly to avoid permanent marring of the underlying substrates. The acidic properties of soot deposits make the residue corrosive and able to mar sensitive building materials, so cleanup comes in several forms, including:

  • Solvents
  • Alkaline Cleaners
  • Media Blasting
  • Controlled Demolition

Deodorization Practices 

Deodorizing is also a needed action following fire losses. The combustion process creates a volatile environment for homeowners and house occupants, making it essential to focus on indoor air quality overall with HEPA air scrubbers and filtration equipment. These actions involve managing post-fire odors through ULV fogging, using hydroxyl generators, or introducing ozone.

Build-Back Services 

Fire damage often comes with the need for reconstruction and repair. Commonly, combustion can have destructive effects on installed building elements, so controlled demolition and replacing these components becomes a critical part of completing fire restoration services. With a general contractor license, our SERVPRO professionals can complete needed build-back services after restoration nears completion.

With fire damage being a consistent concern for Plantation homes and businesses, it is necessary to have a team capable of handling the full recovery your property might need. Trust our SERVPRO of Plantation / Sunrise SE professionals to help and call (954) 710-8544 when disasters strike. 

Plantation Storms Call for Rapid Water Removal

11/14/2022 (Permalink)

Whenever water builds up outside, the chances are good that it will make its way inside. SERVPRO is available 24/7 to restore your home.

Call SERVPRO 24/7 for Storm Water Removal Services in Plantation

There is much more than high winds and flying debris to worry about whenever storms roll through the Plantation area. Whenever you have a tremendous amount of water building up outside, the chances are good that it will make its way inside. As a homeowner, you must know that your flooring, stairs, walls, and ceilings can take on water during a storm. SERVPRO is here to assist with professional stormwater removal services and restoration to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why is stormwater removal necessary after Plantation weather events? Any stagnant water within your property creates potential hazards and costly damage to building materials and interior contents. If floodwater comes in through your ground floor, it also harbors a wealth of possible contamination like silt, natural debris, chemicals, fecal matter, and vermin.

There are Several Areas Where Moisture Could be Hiding

During a storm-related flood, water entering the home means countless areas where moisture could be hiding. Some places you may not suspect include:

  • Underneath cabinets
  • Behind appliances
  • Under and around baseboards
  • Beneath the carpeting or flooring
  • Inside your furniture
  • Behind walls and more

We Get to Work ASAP

Water removal services are essential should you have storm flooding on your property. SERVPRO arrives with powerful pumps, extractors, and other tools to begin pulling up standing water fast. At the same time, we set up airflow technology and dehumidifiers to restore relative humidity (RH) throughout your home. Moisture detection tools also allow us to find any areas of hidden moisture so nothing gets left behind.

In areas with localized flooding, we may dry it faster by putting containment measures up to surround the wet materials. Our IICRC-certified technicians know how to mitigate water damage best and work on restoration and cleaning so that you have peace of mind no bacteria or moisture lurks to cause further issues.

Do you need help with stormwater removal? SERVPRO of Plantation/Sunrise SE is the team to call! Reach us 24/7 by dialing (954) 710-8544 for emergency service, and we will send out our Green Fleet as soon as possible.

SERVPRO Performs Commercial Water Removal in Plantation Properties

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO commercial damage restoration services are top-notch. We are ready 24/7 365 days a year to help you out.

Commercial Water Removal in Plantation Requires Expert Help

After water invades your commercial property, the time you take to commence its removal is critical. Water might ruin things like supplies or stock required for normal operations. Acting fast is critical regardless of the water source or the damage's size.

Water extraction is one key step in restoration since it limits the damages imparted on your property. Prompt commercial water removal in Plantation properties helps ensure that the structures, contents, and equipment don't have much time to absorb water. On the other hand, delaying the restoration process increases the cost and time required to recover fully.

As a commercial property owner, SERVPRO would advise you that the team you pick to handle water removal has the following qualities, among others:

  • The restorers should be able to work closely with your insurance provider to offer you a stress-free claims process.
  • The technicians should be highly-trained and licensed by the local authorities on restoration services and are confident in handling water damage, regardless of the severity.
  • They should have advanced technological equipment for better moisture detection in the building to perform an efficient job.
  • They should also be insured to carry out restoration services.

Commercial property owners need to contact service providers who are sure to perform a quick and clean job without interrupting the stability of the business. This is the main reason that SERVPRO has assembled a team available to you at any hour of the day.

Our water removal process comprises two main approaches: water extraction and evaporation. Due to the energy-intensive evaporation process, SERVPRO uses its commercial water extraction units, like portable pumps, to extract as much water from your property as possible.

Our SERVPRO team uses psychrometrics to measure the amount of moisture in the air and to ensure the air is dry enough for damp materials to dry fast during the drying process. To dry the air, we control the temperature and use drying equipment to control humidity levels.

Efficiency and speed ensure your commercial property returns to its preloss state quickly, and no revenue is wasted. Contact SERVPRO of Plantation / Sunrise SE for assistance at (954) 280-8282.

Water Restoration in Plantation Homes Calls for Professionalism

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO water damage restoration services techs are trained and experience in all phases of water damage restoration. Call now!

SERVPRO Can Handle Water Restoration in Plantation

In your house, many emergencies can occur and lead to water damage, including burst pipes, water heater failure, leaking dishwasher lines, and sump pump failure. After these mishaps, the standing water does not take long before it starts ruining the furniture, the drywall, and the flooring, among other items.

Water and moisture can also initiate the colonization of your house by mold. SERVPRO has assembled a team of fully trained restoration professionals to help you conduct water restoration in your Plantation home. We understand that water damage repair entails more than simple drying and cleaning. That's why we ensure our technicians are well versed in drying porous materials like carpets, furniture, and drywall, to avert potential structural damage and foul odors fully.

For your safety, SERVPRO advises a regular inspection of the following locations:

  • Plaster
  • Drywall
  • Wood
  • Insulation
  • Floor coverings
  • Framing
  • Electrical wiring
  • Appliances
  • Pipes
  • The HVAC system

SERVPRO can work closely with your insurance provider through our contents claim inventory service (CCIS). It offers detailed content listings of questionable, non-repairable, and repairable items for insurance firms by unbiased parties. We can thoroughly document the damages that your contents and property have accrued, which involves taking pictures before commencing the restoration process, during, and after completing the task at hand. We can record details about all content items with handheld scanners and bar codes. Our team can also prepare sketches and create drying logs for an accurate and faster claim.

The water causing the damage determines the amount and types of bacteria and mold your house might contain. Our SERVPRO technicians can sanitize the home and its contents immediately after our drying and mold remediation process. We can also use a hand pump-up sprayer to apply disinfectants or antimicrobials to the affected areas. This helps kill mold and its spores so that the mold does not grow back after the repairs.

For an efficient water restoration process in your house, contact SERVPRO of Plantation / Sunrise SE at (954) 280-8282. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

SERVPRO Can Conduct Mold Remediation in Your Sunrise Home

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

Mold remediation services by SERVPRO are second to none. We have all the equipment and experience needed for your home.

Mold Remediation in Sunrise Requires Professionals

Mold has adverse effects on the structural integrity of your house and the quality of its contents, which creates a huge menace to homeowners. Mold has also become a component that homebuyers and sellers frequently inspect. There is also the possibility of some restorers taking advantage of you since some types of molds can be critical.

You can count on SERVPRO to get out of this mess unscathed. We have qualified professionals who perform mold remediation in Sunrise homes. When hiring the team to handle your mold problem, some of the things that should determine your decision are:

  • Wearing safety gear when dealing with mold. SERVPRO requires this with all of our technicians.
  • Professional equipment like HEPA vacuums, air scrubbers, and commercial-grade dehumidifiers might not be available to the regular handyman.
  • The remediators who carry out the restoration process should be able to help you cut costs and save time.
  • As far as experience goes, it is good to go for companies with over ten years of experience in the restoration business.

After sealing the area mold has affected, our SERVPRO technicians can remove the mold physically from its source, after which we use air exchange techniques and air scrubbers with HEPA filters to clean the air of mold spores that become airborne. This process effectively replaces moldy air with fresh air using simple ventilation setups or even the more sophisticated negative air pressure controls, suitable for bigger tasks.

SERVPRO usually discards porous and moldy building materials like insulation, baseboards, and drywall since they are impossible to restore and inexpensive to replace. We can then apply antimicrobial products to eliminate the remaining mold before using an encapsulant or sealer to ensure that treated areas exhibit more water and mold damage resistance. The sealer also helps to control odor.

For comprehensive mold remediation in your home, contact SERVPRO of Plantation / Sunrise SE at (954) 280-8282. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

The Role of Dehumidifiers in Plantation Water Damage Recovery

8/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO positions LGR low grain refrigerant dehumidifiers to eliminate excess moisture and humidity during water damage restoration in Plantation.

Managing Humidity During Water Damage Cleanup

Because water exists in many forms when restoring and cleaning your home after a disaster, responding recovery professionals must prepare to manage different states efficiently. For humidity and environmental moisture, dehumidifiers are typically the preferred option.

Why Are Dehumidifiers Used?

Humidity can be a substantial obstacle to water damage in Plantation homes. To regulate airborne moisture grains and regulate these conditions for faster water removal and drying, our SERVPRO professionals deploy various types of dehumidification units.

Refrigerant Dehumidification

By pulling moist air through the machine and over refrigerated coils within the unit, the water grains in the environment return to a liquid form and fall into a collection tray for removal. Refrigerant units can be used in smaller applications and combined with other dehumidification approaches for added moisture removal capability.

Desiccant Dehumidification

Desiccants operate differently than refrigerant units because they focus more on absorption than condensation and water collection. By pulling moist air through a membrane in the machine, desiccant dehumidifiers can exhaust dry air back into the workspace to increase the drying production. These are ideal for Large Loss restoration projects, as trailered units can influence multiple wet areas simultaneously.

Establishing a Constant Moisture Level

Moisture can be one of the more challenging obstacles to restoration and recovery, especially when it overwhelms the environment making drying a more significant challenge. Because wet conditions in the house seek a balance, wet goes to dry areas and spreads farther in the residence without intervention. Our SERVPRO team works quickly to slow this effect through:

  • Barriers
  • Air movers
  • Portable heaters
  • Containment equipment

Regulating environmental moisture content is an essential aspect of successful water damage management. Our SERVPRO of Plantation / Sunrise SE team can help return your property to preloss conditions after emergencies. Give us a call today at (954) 280-8282.

Improving Air Quality Amid Fire Damage Cleanup in Sunrise Homes

8/13/2022 (Permalink)

Plantation house fires can degrade IAQ. SERVPRO can wipedown and remove sooty deposits from surfaces and clean the HVAC system.

Better Air Quality During Fire Damage Recovery

There are multiple phases of fire damage recovery after a disaster. Early in mitigation and restoration, it is essential to improve air quality for safer cleanup and to make the living areas safer for house occupants not displaced by the emergency.

Creating a Safe Start for Fire Mitigation

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is one of the first considered aspects of restoring fire damage in Sunrise properties. Creating a safer environment for responding technicians is vital as volatile atmospheric conditions in the household can be hazardous. Filtration is the safest option to mitigate airborne contaminants and particulates causing an issue for the structure.

The Contaminants Possible

Understanding what threats exist in the environment ensures that SERVPRO professionals arrive with the needed tools to help. After a fire is extinguished, smoke solids and soot particles are the most prevalent air threats. These particulates can be hazardous for those exposed, mainly due to their corrosive and carcinogenic nature. Improving IAQ also protects exposed building materials where these particles might come to rest.

Tools to Improve IAQ

Improving air quality can happen in several steps and stages. One of the first objectives is to remove physical contaminants circulating throughout the property by placing HEPA 500 air scrubbers in several house areas. As air is pulled through the unit, contaminants as small as 0.3 microns are trapped in the sophisticated filtration system in these machines.

Aiding with Post-Fire Malodors

Air quality also describes lingering effects like malodors. Strong smells from combustion and burning can be a challenging post-fire condition to remove. Even with surface cleaning and debris removal, additional actions will be needed to neutralize smells entirely. Our robust inventory of deodorization equipment includes:

  • ULV foggers
  • Thermal foggers
  • Ozone machines
  • Hydroxyl generators

Fires present many obstacles for our experienced SERVPRO of Plantation / Sunrise SE professionals. Our team works to mitigate loss and rapidly protect what matters most. When fires affect your home, call us at (954) 280-8282

Cleaning Up Plantation Attics After Flood Damage and Storms

8/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers storm damage cleanup, removal after demolition, and build back projects--large and small--for Plantation properties.

Plantation Attic Flood Damage Is Serious

Intense storms can have a detrimental impact on roofing systems. When vulnerabilities exist, runoff and floodwater can find their way into attics and eventually the living spaces of your home. SERVPRO can help clean up water damage and repair the damages storms can cause your property.

Assessing Roof Damage and Immediate Needs

Before SERVPRO can address attic flood damage in Plantation homes, our professionals must assess and evaluate structural compromise to exterior elements like the roof. We can patch or use temporary tarping to stop any continued water flow into the structure, allowing restoration professionals to begin work inside the attic on cleanup, drying, and disinfection.

What Is at Risk in the Attic?

Several materials are likely to be damaged within the attic by intruding floodwater. Insulation, roof underlayment, trusses, and flooring can all be significantly damaged by prolonged moisture exposure. SERVPRO professionals must assess the condition of these items to determine where controlled demolition and build-back might be needed.

Thorough Drying Approaches

As you might expect, flood recovery hinges greatly on any effort to dry impacted structural elements. Non-porous materials and situations where attic flooding is not considered a contaminant, many drying tools get used in this confined space. Some of these include:

  • Air movers
  • Portable heaters
  • Negative pressure machines
  • Dehumidifiers
  • Drying mats

Experienced Contractors to Help

Our general contractor license is an advantage of choosing SERVPRO to help restore your home after flooding. Because severe weather, floods impact so many houses, and hurricanes, having experienced building professionals on the roster makes a difference in how we approach restoration and how fast residences are returned to owners in preloss condition. We can quickly transition from cleanup to build-back, which is especially important when areas like the roof and attic are affected.

Flood damage can happen to any area of your house, but when the attic is affected, it can be a particularly challenging situation. Many depend on the experience and fast response of our SERVPRO of Plantation / Sunrise SE team to help. Call us today at (954) 280-8282.

Water Damage Clean-up Experts

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in ceiling air vent

The Plantation Water Damage Cleanup Experts

There is so much to do here in Plantation. You can stroll the Farmer’s Market, immerse yourself in the past at the Plantation Historical Museum or commune with nature at the nearby Big Cypress National Preserve. Sometimes life here can be a challenge, though, especially when water damage occurs. That’s when you need to rely on the water damage cleanup experts at SERVPRO of Plantation.

Water Can Be A Challenge

Water is much more powerful than most people realize, and even a small amount can cause a lot of damage, especially if it’s allowed to sit for any length of time. At SERVPRO, we understand how important it is to act quickly when it comes to water damage and we’re guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster. We have staff ready to take your call 24/7 and we’ll send a highly trained technician to your location within four hours of that call.

It’s especially important to act quickly to address mold, which can begin to grow and spread within 24-48 hours after water damage occurs. If it reaches your HVAC system, mold can quickly spread throughout your home or business, potentially causing health effects. The professionals of SERVPRO are trained to handle mold remediation and we’ll be sure to pay particular attention to your HVAC system.

Rely On The Experts

With a proven reputation and over 40 years of experience, SERVPRO is the name you can trust for water damage cleanup. We’ll do everything we can to make your property look “Like it never even happened.” From boarding and tarping damaged windows and roofs to removing standing water and thoroughly drying all surfaces, we have the equipment and training necessary to handle any size emergency.

Our goal is to help get you on your feet again, so we won’t stop until we know you’re satisfied. That can mean removing and replacing drywall, removing and replacing damaged carpet and flooring and even performing a complete inventory to help you file your insurance claim.

Call The Pros When It Matters Most

When water damage occurs, call SERVPRO of Plantation and rest easy knowing you’re in good hands. We’re more than just professionals; we’re also part of the local community which is why we treat every property as if it’s our own. So don’t get in over your head, call SERVPRO for water damage cleanup that will give you peace of mind.

About the Author

Tyrone Po

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We understand the challenges that can happen 1st hand (I have experienced them myself) and how we can help you get things back to normal.

Affiliations: We are affiliated with Professional Golfers' Association of AmericaAmerican Red Cross, Better Business Bureau, BOMACommunity Association InstituteFt Lauderdale Chamber of CommerceIndependent Agents of Broward CountyInstitute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration CertificationLauderdale by the Sea Chamber of CommerceLeadership BrowardPlantation Chamber of CommerceSouth Florida Claims AssociationWilton Manors Business Association

Certifications: AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician, CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician, ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program, FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician, UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician, OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program, HST -Health and safety Technician, OCT - Odor Control Technician, RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation, WRT -Water Damage Restoration Technician, IICRC -Certified Firm

Awards: Better Business Bureau - A Rated, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award Recipient

Why SERVPRO - Community Focused

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Community is at the heart of everything we do: classroom clean-up

SERVPRO: Caring for the Plantation Community

Plantation is a beautiful city located in the heart of Broward County. There is so much to love here but it can also be vulnerable to storms, wildfires and other disasters. Times like these can really shake a community and that’s when you need neighbors to come together and help. That’s what SERVPRO of Plantation is all about; we make it our business to support the community.

We’re a locally owned franchise, so we understand how challenging the weather here in Plantation can be. We also have the reliability of the SERVPRO brand, with more than 1,700 franchises nationwide. SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team has been involved in significant recovery efforts across the country, helping clean up after wildfires, tornadoes and other major storms.

In Plantation, we put the focus on serving the local community in every way we can. We are active members of the Chamber of Commerce and we’re proud to sponsor many of the events of the American Red Cross. Proceeds from these events help the American Red Cross in their responses to local disasters so it’s an important way to ensure that our neighbors are safe and secure.

At SERVPRO we’re more than just experts in fire, water and storm damage restoration…we’re also part of the Plantation community. We are guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster and we treat every property as if it’s our own. SERVPRO is the name you can count on for professional service with the personal touch that always puts community first. 

SERVPRO specializes in commercial and residential water damage remediation services. Whether you need fire protection for both your building and your inventory, or an emergency response to contain the effects of a water challenge - we have the experience and expertise needed to manage every detail of this situation. We offer cleaning by certified technicians following EPA standards with all our workspaces being kept clean and safe by biosafety. With 41 years in business, SERVPRO is trusted by some of America's largest property owners/managers!

About the Author

Tyrone Po

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Twitter

Youtube

Instagram

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We understand the challenges that can happen 1st hand (I have experienced them myself) and how we can help you get things back to normal.

Affiliations: We are affiliated with Professional Golfers' Association of AmericaAmerican Red Cross, Better Business Bureau, BOMACommunity Association InstituteFt Lauderdale Chamber of CommerceIndependent Agents of Broward CountyInstitute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration CertificationLauderdale by the Sea Chamber of CommerceLeadership BrowardPlantation Chamber of CommerceSouth Florida Claims AssociationWilton Manors Business Association

Certifications: AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician, CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician, ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program, FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician, UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician, OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program, HST -Health and safety Technician, OCT - Odor Control Technician, RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation, WRT -Water Damage Restoration Technician, IICRC -Certified Firm

Awards: Better Business Bureau - A Rated, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award Recipient

Water Damage Restoration Services

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's fast and prepared response for any disaster starts with equipped vehicles. No matter where, no matter when.

Water Damage Restoration Services In Plantation, FL

Plantation, FL is a beautiful community just outside of Ft. Lauderdale with easy access to many neighboring sites like the Coral Springs Museum of Art and Big Cypress National Preserve. There is plenty to do here for outdoor enthusiasts, as well world class restaurants and shopping.

It’s easy to see why Plantation is such a popular spot but even this ideal location isn’t immune to danger. Water can easily become a hazard, whether from one of our many storms or something as routine as a burst pipe. When water damage occurs, you need to know who to call for cleanup and restoration services so that the problem can be addressed quickly.

The First Name For A Fast Response

SERVPRO is the name you can trust to handle water damage in your home or business. We understand how important it is to move quickly when water is involved, which is why we have someone ready to take your call 24/7 and will have one of our highly trained technicians on site within four hours of that call.

Once on site, our technician will assess the damage, develop a step-by-step plan to address it, and then go over the plan with you so you know exactly what to expect. With a plan in place, we will begin by removing any standing water then use state-of-the-art equipment to thoroughly dry all surfaces and remove any excess moisture from the air. We’ll also perform a complete mold remediation, paying particular attention to your HVAC system.

Professional Expertise With Personal Care

SERVPRO is unlike any other restoration company because we combine expert training and certification with the kind of personal care you can only get from a local company. We treat every property as if it were our own and we’ll even provide you with a complete inventory of your damaged items to help make filing an insurance claim easier.

At SERVPRO of Plantation, serving the community is important to us. We know that what affects one part of the community affects us all, so we approach every job with the utmost dedication. We want what is best for Plantation and we’ll tackle any challenge that comes our way, no matter how complicated.

A quick response is critical when it comes to water damage and that’s why your first call should be to the professionals of SERVPRO. We’re ready to respond faster to any disaster.

About the Author

Tyrone Po

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Twitter

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We understand the challenges that can happen 1st hand (I have experienced them myself) and how we can help you get things back to normal.

Affiliations: We are affiliated with Professional Golfers' Association of AmericaAmerican Red CrossBetter Business BureauBOMACommunity Association InstituteFt Lauderdale Chamber of CommerceIndependent Agents of Broward CountyInstitute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration CertificationLauderdale by the Sea Chamber of CommerceLeadership BrowardPlantation Chamber of CommerceSouth Florida Claims AssociationWilton Manors Business Association

Certifications: AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician, CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician, ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program, FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician, UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician, OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program, HST -Health and safety Technician, OCT - Odor Control Technician, RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation, WRT -Water Damage Restoration Technician, IICRC -Certified Firm

Awards: Better Business Bureau - A Rated, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award Recipient

Water Damage Restoration Checklist

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO staff inspecting room after water damage

Water Damage Restoration: A Checklist

With a wide range of hiking and biking trails and unique sites like the Plantation Farmer’s Market and the nearby Deerfield Beach Boardwalk, Plantation, FL is a nature lover’s delight. Unfortunately, Mother Nature isn’t always as welcoming as we’d like and when storms strike they can bring devastating water damage to a home or business.

No matter what the cause, water damage can be very costly so getting it addressed quickly is important. That’s why the professionals at SERVPRO of Plantation should be your first call for any water related emergency. We’re prepared to take your call 24/7 and we’ve got the training and expertise to handle any job.

Our technicians follow a specific checklist to ensure that the restoration process is completed quickly and thoroughly:

  1. Identify the Source and Type of Water – The first step is identifying the source and stopping it to prevent further damage. At the same time, we’ll determine the level of contamination by identifying the type of water involved.
  2. Inspect the Premises and Assess the Damage – Next we’ll thoroughly inspect the entire premises and assess the extent of the damage, identifying any particular safety issues that need to be addressed.
  3. Check for Mold – Mold is one of the biggest dangers presented by any water damage, so we’ll check for any signs of mold growth and perform a complete mold remediation.
  4. Remove Standing Water – Submersible pumps and industrial strength wet/dry vacs are used to remove all standing water.
  5. Deodorize and Disinfect – We use deodorizers and EPA-registered disinfectants as antimicrobial treatments to ensure the entire premises is completely clean and safe.
  6. Determine What Can be Salvaged – We’ll perform a complete inventory as we go along and if anything is deemed unsalvageable by you or your adjuster, we’ll make sure it’s safely removed.
  7. Monitor Temperature/Humidity Levels – Temperature and humidity levels will be carefully monitored throughout the restoration to facilitate the drying process.
  8. Thoroughly Dry – All moisture is removed from the surface and air using industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers.

Water damage can leave you stressed, but you don’t have to go it alone. Call SERVPRO of Plantation and rest easy knowing you’ve got neighbors on hand to help get you on your feet again. We respond faster to any disaster and we won’t finish the job until we know you’re satisfied. That’s what being a community means to us.

About the Author

Tyrone Po

Facebook

Twitter

Youtube

Instagram

Linkedin

We understand the challenges that can happen 1st hand (I have experienced them myself) and how we can help you get things back to normal.

Affiliations: We are affiliated with Professional Golfers' Association of AmericaAmerican Red Cross, Better Business Bureau, BOMACommunity Association InstituteFt Lauderdale Chamber of CommerceIndependent Agents of Broward CountyInstitute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration CertificationLauderdale by the Sea Chamber of CommerceLeadership BrowardPlantation Chamber of CommerceSouth Florida Claims AssociationWilton Manors Business Association

Certifications: AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician, CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician, ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program, FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician, UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician, OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program, HST -Health and safety Technician, OCT - Odor Control Technician, RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation, WRT -Water Damage Restoration Technician, IICRC -Certified Firm

Awards: Better Business Bureau - A Rated, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award Recipient

Why SERVPRO - Community Focused

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

Community is at the heart of everything we do: classroom clean-up

SERVPRO: Caring for the Plantation Community

Plantation is a beautiful city located in the heart of Broward County. There is so much to love here but it can also be vulnerable to storms, wildfires and other disasters. Times like these can really shake a community and that’s when you need neighbors to come together and help. That’s what SERVPRO of Plantation is all about; we make it our business to support the community.

We’re a locally owned franchise, so we understand how challenging the weather here in Plantation can be. We also have the reliability of the SERVPRO brand, with more than 1,700 franchises nationwide. SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team has been involved in significant recovery efforts across the country, helping clean up after wildfires, tornadoes and other major storms.

In Plantation, we put the focus on serving the local community in every way we can. We are active members of the Chamber of Commerce and we’re proud to sponsor many of the events of the American Red Cross. Proceeds from these events help the American Red Cross in their responses to local disasters so it’s an important way to ensure that our neighbors are safe and secure.

At SERVPRO we’re more than just experts in fire, water and storm damage restoration…we’re also part of the Plantation community. We are guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster and we treat every property as if it’s our own. SERVPRO is the name you can count on for professional service with the personal touch that always puts community first. 

SERVPRO specializes in commercial and residential water damage remediation services. Whether you need fire protection for both your building and your inventory, or an emergency response to contain the effects of a water challenge - we have the experience and expertise needed to manage every detail of this situation. We offer cleaning by certified technicians following EPA standards with all our workspaces being kept clean and safe by biosafety. With 41 years in business, SERVPRO is trusted by some of America's largest property owners/managers!

About the Author

Tyrone Po

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We understand the challenges that can happen 1st hand (I have experienced them myself) and how we can help you get things back to normal.

Affiliations: We are affiliated with Professional Golfers' Association of AmericaAmerican Red Cross, Better Business Bureau, BOMACommunity Association InstituteFt Lauderdale Chamber of CommerceIndependent Agents of Broward CountyInstitute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration CertificationLauderdale by the Sea Chamber of CommerceLeadership BrowardPlantation Chamber of CommerceSouth Florida Claims AssociationWilton Manors Business Association

Certifications: AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician, CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician, ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program, FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician, UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician, OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program, HST -Health and safety Technician, OCT - Odor Control Technician, RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation, WRT -Water Damage Restoration Technician, IICRC -Certified Firm

Awards: Better Business Bureau - A Rated, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award Recipient

Why SERVPRO – Local Experts

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

State-of-the-art equipment makes a difference in speed and results

The Local Experts At SERVPRO Of Plantation

When disaster strikes your home or business, you need a name you can count on for expert restoration services. For more than 50 years, SERVPRO has been providing support for communities across the country when they need it most. Combining that nationally known reputation with the personal touch of locally owned franchises, SERVPRO is uniquely qualified to serve communities like Plantation, FL.

SERVPRO of Plantation is dedicated to caring for our local community as a long-time member of the Chamber of Commerce. We’ve also been active in support of the many fund raising activities of the American Red Cross, helping to sponsor such events and Dine and Dock and Sips for Tips, which raise the money necessary to finance the Red Cross’s disaster relief services.

At the same time, we make sure that all of our technicians have the best and most up to date training, allowing us to bring our unique SERVPRO expertise to every single job. As members of the local community ourselves, we understand the particular challenges that the weather in Plantation can bring and we’re prepared to respond quickly and do everything we can to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Of Plantation experts understand how hard it can be to keep up with all of the responsibilities that come with caring for a family, which is why they offer 24/7 emergency services. Our team will respond immediately when emergencies arise, so you know their property is in good hands. We also take time to educate our customers on how to protect themselves from water damage or fire damage by following some simple tips.

When disaster strikes you need to have a name you can trust for professional restoration services. SERVPRO of Plantation has the training, expertise and equipment to handle any size job and we’ll treat every property as if it’s our own. For the local experts you can trust, call SERVPRO and you’ll know you’re in good hands.

About the Author

Tyrone Po

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We understand the challenges that can happen 1st hand (I have experienced them myself) and how we can help you get things back to normal.

Affiliations: We are affiliated with Professional Golfers' Association of AmericaAmerican Red CrossBetter Business BureauBOMACommunity Association InstituteFt Lauderdale Chamber of CommerceIndependent Agents of Broward CountyInstitute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration CertificationLauderdale by the Sea Chamber of CommerceLeadership BrowardPlantation Chamber of CommerceSouth Florida Claims AssociationWilton Manors Business Association

Certifications: AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician, CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician, ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program, FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician, UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician, OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program, HST -Health and safety Technician, OCT - Odor Control Technician, RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation, WRT -Water Damage Restoration Technician, IICRC -Certified Firm

Awards: Better Business Bureau - A Rated, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award Recipient

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

8/1/2021 (Permalink)

During fire damage clean-up: soot on walls and ceilings

When Fire Strikes Call The Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Experts

Nestled in the heart of Broward County, Plantation is a northern suburb of Ft. Lauderdale between West Palm Beach and Miami, making it a convenient central location. That makes it easy for visitors to take advantage of many sites that the area has to offer, from the Plantation Historical Museum to the popular Monarch Interpretive Center and Butterfly Island at nearby Secret Woods Nature Center.

With so much to offer here, it’s easy to see why it has become a hub for so many businesses. Unfortunately, even with its ideal climate Plantation is not immune to disaster, including the threat of fire.

When fire strikes your commercial property you need a quick and thorough restoration service to help get you back on your feet again. SERVPRO is the most trusted name for commercial fire damage restoration and we make it our business to respond faster to any disaster.

Professional Training In Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Fire can be particularly devastating for a commercial property, with flames, smoke, soot and even water from firefighting efforts causing a tremendous amount of damage. Every minute that your doors remain closed after a fire can cost you money, which is why a quick response is so important. SERVPRO understands this and we are ready to take your call 24/7 so the restoration process can get started as quickly as possible.

From resort hotels to office buildings, SERVPRO has the training, experience and equipment necessary to handle any fire damage restoration job. As restoration specialists, our technicians are all IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified with up to the minute training in fire and smoke restoration, odor control, upholstery and fabric cleaning and water damage restoration, so you know you can rely on us to treat your business right.

Keeping Community First

At SERVPRO we don’t just stop with expert training, we’re also focused on serving the community. We combine trusted national resources with the personal approach of a locally owned company. That means we can provide our customers with quality fire damage restoration services while treating your property carefully, as if it were our own.  That’s something you can’t get from just any restoration company.

From start to finish, SERVPRO is equipped to handle your commercial fire damage restoration needs. We use industrial strength, professional quality equipment to remove standing water and thoroughly clean and dry all surfaces and we’ll even provide a complete inventory to help you file an insurance claim. We won’t stop until you’re able to open your doors again because we want what’s best for our community.

A fire in your commercial property can leave you reeling but you can get on the road to recovery quickly with one call to SERVPRO. Our professional staff is ready to respond immediately and help make it “Like it never even happened.” That’s the SERVPRO of Plantation guarantee and we stand by it proudly. We’re here for the community when they need us most, because that’s what good neighbors do.

About the Author

Tyrone Po

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We understand the challenges that can happen 1st hand (I have experienced them myself) and how we can help you get things back to normal.

Affiliations: We are affiliated with Professional Golfers' Association of AmericaAmerican Red Cross, Better Business Bureau, BOMACommunity Association InstituteFt Lauderdale Chamber of CommerceIndependent Agents of Broward CountyInstitute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration CertificationLauderdale by the Sea Chamber of CommerceLeadership BrowardPlantation Chamber of CommerceSouth Florida Claims AssociationWilton Manors Business Association

Certifications: AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician, CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician, ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program, FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician, UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician, OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program, HST -Health and safety Technician, OCT - Odor Control Technician, RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation, WRT -Water Damage Restoration Technician, IICRC -Certified Firm

Awards: Better Business Bureau - A Rated, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award Recipient

Commercial Water Damage Clean-up

8/1/2021 (Permalink)

During commercial office space clean-up after water damage

Commercial Water Damage Cleanup You Can Trust

Plantation, FL is known for its tropical climate, but all that water can take a toll on commercial properties. Everything from the Plantation Preserve Golf Course to the nearby Vizcaya Museum and Gardens can be affected by water damage and that kind of damage can prove very costly. If you’re faced with cleanup after a broken pipe, leaky roof or storm related flooding, SERVPRO is the name you can trust to respond faster to any disaster and get your doors open again.

At SERVPRO of Plantation we understand how important quality cleanup and restoration service is because we were customers before we entered the business community ourselves. With so much to offer to residents and visitors alike, Plantation is a beautiful spot and SERVPRO is committed to keeping it that way. That’s why we go out of our way to treat every property we serve as if it were our own. 

With over 1,700 franchises nationwide, SERVPRO is a leading name in the restoration industry with a reputation for responding quickly and sticking with each job until we know that you’re satisfied. We have the training and expertise to handle water emergencies in all sorts of commercial properties, from luxury hotels to office buildings. When you need your property to look “Like it never even happened,” SERVPRO of Plantation should be your first call.

Getting You Back On Dry Ground

When it comes to water damage, it’s all about getting you back on dry ground again. That’s why SERVPRO won’t sign off until the job is complete. We’ll put all of our expertise and training to work for you so that you can get back to business as quickly as possible. It’s all part of our guarantee and what has made us the name so many businesses turn to when disaster strikes.

Water damage cleanup in commercial spaces can present unique challenges and SERVPRO is well equipped to handle them. Whether it means sending a larger crew or using industrial size machinery, we’ll do whatever it takes to get the job done right. We use a range of commercial grade equipment including submersible pumps and industrial wet/dry vacuums and for the most heavy duty jobs we can even use truck mounted extraction units to make sure every ounce of water is removed.

Industrial strength dehumidifiers and high-speed air movers thoroughly dry any size location and our crews will also perform a complete mold remediation to ensure the safety of your property. We’ll pay particular attention to your HVAC and ventilation systems, which can be the primary source for spreading mold throughout any building.

Call The Trusted Professionals

If you’re facing a water related emergency, be sure to call the professionals you can trust at SERVPRO of Plantation. We’re ready to take your call 24/7 and we’ll do everything necessary to restore your property with the personal touch you expect. That’s the SERVPRO difference, a difference you can count on to get you through the most difficult times.

About the Author

Tyrone Po

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We understand the challenges that can happen 1st hand (I have experienced them myself) and how we can help you get things back to normal.

Affiliations: We are affiliated with Professional Golfers' Association of AmericaAmerican Red Cross, Better Business Bureau, BOMACommunity Association InstituteFt Lauderdale Chamber of CommerceIndependent Agents of Broward CountyInstitute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration CertificationLauderdale by the Sea Chamber of CommerceLeadership BrowardPlantation Chamber of CommerceSouth Florida Claims AssociationWilton Manors Business Association

Certifications: AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician, CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician, ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program, FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician, UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician, OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program, HST -Health and safety Technician, OCT - Odor Control Technician, RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation, WRT -Water Damage Restoration Technician, IICRC -Certified Firm

Awards: Better Business Bureau - A Rated, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award Recipient

Safest Fire Restoration in Plantation

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Handling a Fire Disaster? You aren't alone, we have your back.

Safest Fire Restoration in Plantation

Any disaster can take a toll on a home or business but perhaps nothing is more devastating than the effects of a fire. Fires usually strike suddenly and cause a wide range of damage, which can leave you reeling and unsure of where to turn for help. As desperate as you may feel, it’s important to know that you can turn to SERVPRO for the safest fire restoration services in the Plantation area.

As beautiful as Plantation is, it’s hard to think about something as awful as fire striking, but unfortunately it can occur at any time. For the many residents of the area to businesses like Aetna Insurance and other large and small companies that call Plantation home, it’s essential to have a professional restoration company to rely on when a fire occurs so that you know you’re in good hands.

Understanding The Full Scope of Fire Damage

Of course the immediate picture most people have of fire damage is burned and broken belongings, scorched structures and melted plastics caused by the extreme heat of flames. Sadly, in terms of fire damage that only begins to scratch the surface. There is much more to fire damage and all of it has to be taken into consideration when performing safe and thorough restoration services.

Flames bring along the added hazard of smoke and soot, both of which can permeate surfaces and cause health effects. In order to thoroughly restore fire damaged property, a careful and exacting cleaning process is required, using professional quality equipment and specialized training. Professionals will also need to assess each item to determine if it is capable of being restored or will need to be discarded.

Surprisingly, when it comes to fire damage the single most harmful factor is actually water. While water is essential for putting out fires, it can also compound the damage to homes, businesses and belongings from the fire itself and may lead to rotting of support systems as well as mold growth and infestation if it is not addressed quickly and thoroughly.

SERVPRO Addresses All Fire Damage

It’s usually impossible to avoid fire damage, which is why it is so important to make sure that the damage is addressed properly. Because fire can affect every part of a residential or commercial property, right down to the interior support structure, it is essential to move quickly and safely when handling fire damage. The sooner you begin the restoration process, the sooner you can get back on your feet again and the better your chances of reducing your expenses.

SERVPRO understands the need for speed, so we’re ready to respond to your call 24/7. We’ll have a technician on-site to perform a thorough assessment of your damage within four hours of your original call and we’ll have a customized plan of action specific to your property within eight hours when we supply a complete verbal briefing.

We’ll even provide a thorough inventory of all of your damaged surfaces and belongings to help expedite the process of filing your insurance claim. We understand how emotional this time can be for you and we’re prepared to do everything we can to make it easier on you and ultimately help you to get the reimbursement you deserve.

Of course, our goal with any property is to make it “Like it never even happened,” and we’ll always proceed with that in mind. Our technicians will put their training and expertise to use to make sure that the restoration process is handled as safely as possible in the shortest amount of time so that you can put the pain behind you and let the healing begin.

The Professional Approach To Fire Restoration

Dealing with the aftermath of a fire can be overwhelming, which is why it is so important to have professionals that you can depend on. At SERVPRO, we understand how difficult this time can be and we have the training and equipment to handle the job efficiently and safely, so you never have to go through the restoration process alone.

Our quick and thorough process begins by responding faster to any disaster. Once we have assessed your damage and drawn up your personalized comprehensive plan of action, we’ll provide you with a detailed explanation of every step that we’ll be taking in the restoration process so that you always understand exactly what’s happening. We’ll then complete pre-testing of all surfaces and items so we can determine exactly what is able to be restored and what must be discarded.

Our restoration process includes the latest techniques and high-tech state-of-the-art equipment that can handle any size job. Our Ultra Low Volume (ULV) and Thermal foggers can remove all hazardous odors from any type of surface while our industrial vacuums with HEPA filters remove all water and help to mitigate mold growth to prevent infestation.

We use industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry all surfaces and employ specialized techniques where necessary to address any salvageable belongings. When the restoration process is finished we’ll perform a complete walkthrough of the property with you to ensure that you are completely satisfied with what we’ve done.

Because filing an insurance claim can be one of the most time consuming and emotionally trying parts of the entire restoration experience, we’ll even help you generate a comprehensive room-by-room inventory to facilitate matters. We know that the most important thing for you is to get your property back to its previous state, so we’ll do everything we can to help you get back on your feet as soon as possible.

Don’t Go It Alone

Unfortunately, even a place as beautiful as the Plantation area is not immune to the devastation caused by fire.  SERVPRO is a part of the Plantation community and we understand that devastation all too well, which is why we’re prepared to respond quickly when you need us most. There is no reason why you should have to face the emotional journey through the repair and restoration process alone when there are trained professionals that you can count on.

When fire strikes your home or business, your first response should be to call the professionals at SERVPRO. We’ve got the training and equipment necessary to handle any level of fire damage and we’ll treat every property with the utmost care, just as if it were our own.

At SERVPRO we make it our business to respond faster to any disaster and to handle every fire restoration job with the utmost safety. That’s the professional difference and that’s the experience you’ll get when you call SERVPRO. With our state-of-the-art equipment and certified training you’ll know you’ve got the best in restoration by your side. 

About the Author

Tyrone Po

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We understand the challenges that can happen 1st hand (I have experienced them myself) and how we can help you get things back to normal.

Affiliations: We are affiliated with Professional Golfers' Association of America, American Red Cross, Better Business Bureau, BOMA, Community Association Institute, Ft Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, Independent Agents of Broward County, Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, Lauderdale by the Sea Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Broward, Plantation Chamber of Commerce, South Florida Claims Association, Wilton Manors Business Association

Certifications: AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician, CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician, ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program, FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician, UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician, OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program, HST -Health and safety Technician, OCT - Odor Control Technician, RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation, WRT -Water Damage Restoration Technician, IICRC -Certified Firm

Awards: Better Business Bureau - A RatedGreater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award Recipient

Check out our previous blog!

How Do You Remove Soot in Plantation FL?

Water Restoration Techniques in Plantation, FL

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Quickly handle water damage so mold doesn't become a problem - call the professionals at SERVPRO of Plantation

Water Restoration Techniques in Plantation, FL

Water is one of the most destructive forces on Earth, and one of the most underestimated. Even the smallest trickle of water, if left unchecked, can have a devastating effect on a home or business. No matter what the cause, from a burst pipe to an overflowing appliance or a storm surge, water damage can be dangerous and even deadly.

Water is a part of life here in the Plantation, FL area but when it becomes too much to handle, residents and business owners need a water restoration service they can turn to for professional help and that’s where SERVPRO comes in.

There is so much to love in this beautiful area, from sandy beaches to the bustling “Plantation Midtown” business district. With its ideal location in the center of South Florida, Plantation is home to many businesses both large and small as well as several residential neighborhoods including Historic Old Plantation.

Unfortunately, situated along the sunny Atlantic coast, it is also vulnerable to hurricanes, which can bring heavy rains and storm surge that lead to water damage. SERVPRO is part of this community too, so we understand the challenges that the weather can bring and we’re prepared to respond 24/7 to help our neighbors when they’re in need.

Unlike almost any other water restoration service, we have cutting edge training that enables us to respond quickly and professionally to any size job. Once on site, we use the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to handle water damage thoroughly so that your property will look “Like it never even happened.”

We also understand how devastating a water emergency can be and we’ll go out of our way to treat your property as if it were our own, including keeping you informed at every step of the process so you know exactly what’s happening.

The techniques we use are geared toward addressing water damage quickly and thoroughly, regardless of the underlying cause:

  1. Initial Contact – The first step is taking your call for help. We know that disaster can strike at any time and speed is always crucial since the longer water is allowed to stand in one place the more damage it can do. That’s why our operators are available 24/7 so we can take your call and get the process started immediately. They’re also trained to treat you with care as well as ask specific questions to help us determine exactly what resources we’ll need to handle your job.
  2. Inspection and Water Damage Assessment – Within four hours of your call we’ll have a technician on site to perform a thorough inspection and assess the extent of the damage. First and foremost, we’ll identify the source of the problem and do whatever is necessary to stop it, then we’ll determine the exact type of water involved and the extent of the damage. The specific techniques used for restoration will depend on the level of contamination that’s present. Once we know exactly what we’re dealing with, we’ll be able to take the necessary safety precautions as well as move any furniture or other items to facilitate the restoration and prevent rust or stains on carpeting and flooring.
  3. Removal/Extraction – With a thorough assessment of the damage we can then begin the actual removal of all standing water. If we determine that an extensive process will be necessary, SERVPRO can help you to move your belongings to prevent any further damage. We will then employ submersible pumps and industrial grade wet/dry vacuums to remove all standing water as well as moisture detectors and hygrometers to measure the extent of moisture both on surfaces and in the air. Infrared cameras help to detect any “hidden” water behind walls or in ceilings to ensure that every bit of moisture is removed.
  4. Drying/Dehumidification – The next step of the process is to thoroughly dry all surfaces. We use industrial grade air movers and dehumidifiers to ensure that all moisture is completely removed from both the affected area and any surrounding rooms. Throughout the drying process, we’ll monitor progress with moisture meters until we are satisfied that the humidity and moisture levels are once again at a safe level. This monitoring is crucial to avoid warping of floors, walls and furniture as well as other damage.
  5. Cleaning/Sanitizing – Removal and drying are only half of the process. Even after it’s gone, water can leave behind a dirty and potentially hazardous mess, especially if it is contaminated. Once the affected area has been thoroughly dried, we’ll clean everything, including furniture, upholstery, clothing or any other restorable belongings. We’ll use air scrubbers and fogging equipment to help remove any lingering odors and apply antimicrobial, antibacterial and disinfectant treatments to completely sanitize all surfaces. If there are any items that you or your insurance adjuster deem unsalvageable we’ll also do everything we can to help you safely dispose of them.
  6. Restoration – The restoration process doesn’t end with removal and cleaning. In fact, it may just be beginning but SERVPRO is prepared to see it through and make you feel whole again. That may require repair and reconstruction including drywall removal and installation, hardwood or tile floor repair, painting, or carpet repair and installation. We understand how important it is to get your property back to its previous state and we won’t be satisfied until we know that you are.

The Professional Touch You Can Trust

No matter how you look at it, water damage can be devastating. When the water involved is contaminated, either with sewage, storm debris or other potential hazards, it can be extremely dangerous. When you find yourself facing this kind of damage it may be tempting to just roll up your sleeves and start the work yourself but this is when you really need to rely on the professionals to get the job done right. 

At SERVPRO we understand the dangers that water can present and we’ve got the training and equipment necessary to deal with them in a safe and efficient manner. Our comprehensive step-by-step process can cover any size job and ensures that your home or business is fully restored with the care and concern that you’d expect. 

We also know how stressful it can be to try and tackle the often complicated process of filing an insurance claim, so we’ll do everything we can to help you through it so that you can get the compensation you deserve. Ultimately, the healing process can only really begin once your property is restored, so we’re prepared to do everything that’s necessary to get you to that point as quickly and easily as possible.

Restoring Our Community

As your neighbors, SERVPRO knows that restoring your property is important because it means restoring our community. That’s why we take a professional approach designed to make your property “Like it never even happened.” The peace of mind that restoration brings is something we all share and that’s why we’ll always go the extra mile to ensure that you’re back on your feet again after any kind of emergency strikes. 

About the Author

Tyrone Po

Facebook

Twitter

Youtube

Instagram

Linkedin

We understand the challenges that can happen 1st hand (I have experienced them myself) and how we can help you get things back to normal.

Affiliations: We are affiliated with Professional Golfers' Association of America, American Red Cross, Better Business Bureau, BOMA, Community Association Institute, Ft Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, Independent Agents of Broward County, Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, Lauderdale by the Sea Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Broward, Plantation Chamber of Commerce, South Florida Claims Association, Wilton Manors Business Association

Certifications: AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician, CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician, ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program, FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician, UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician, OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program, HST -Health and safety Technician, OCT - Odor Control Technician, RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation, WRT -Water Damage Restoration Technician, IICRC -Certified Firm

Awards: Better Business Bureau - A RatedGreater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award Recipient

Check out our previous blog!

Water Damage in Plantation?

What is the difference between residential and commercial cleaning?

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

We are always ready to help

When it comes to cleaning in the Plantation area, there are two basic categories that most services cover: residential and commercial.

Each comes with its own challenges, especially given the extreme weather conditions that often hit in this area, which can cause a lot of damage to homes and businesses alike.

So what is the difference between residential and commercial cleaning? 

Residential cleaning focuses on the kind of issues faced by most homeowners, including roof repair, mold remediation and water damage.

Whether damage is caused by a household emergency like a burst pipe, a hurricane or other storm or just routine wear and tear, a professional cleaning service can help to repair and restore your home.

Commercial cleaning focuses on businesses, both large and small, and other types of properties like schools, hospitals and nursing homes.

In the case of commercial properties, the cleaning process can be more extensive simply because it usually involves a much larger area. It can also involve specific conditions like the hygienic needs of hospitals and medical facilities or the handling of hazardous materials.

Whether you’re in need of residential or commercial cleaning services, the professionals at SERVPRO of Plantation are ready to provide the help you need.

We have trained technicians ready to respond quickly to any job and state-of-the-art equipment to properly address any issue in your home or business. With the professionals of SERVPRO every cleaning job gets the treatment it deserves.

SERVPRO of Plantation
P: (954) 280-8282
150 S. Pine Island Road, Suite 300
Plantation, FL 33324

How Do You Remove Soot in Plantation FL?

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Soot, Smoke and Fire Damage Is No Match For SERVPRO of Ft Lauderdale N

Soot is one of the most dangerous of all hazards that you can face in the aftermath of a fire

Because it can contain any number of toxins, breathing in even the smallest amount of soot can cause serious health issues.

It can build up on all sorts of surfaces and create noxious odors, which can make it a challenge to clean.

Removing soot is a delicate process that requires proper safety precautions, specialized equipment and professional training

That’s why it’s recommended that you leave this job to the professionals at SERVPRO of Plantation.

The longer soot is allowed to remain on a surface the more dangerous it is, so it needs to be addressed as quickly as possible.

It’s also important to ensure that it is cleaned properly so that it doesn’t make the damage any worse.

At SERVPRO we have specialized equipment, including industrial vacuums with HEPA filters that can remove soot particles from the air and from various surfaces, as well as air scrubbers to trap any soot particles released into the air by vacuuming. 

We can then clean walls, carpets, floors, furniture and other items using the proper products to ensure that the soot is removed without damaging the item or surface itself.

We understand how devastating a fire can be and we’re prepared to respond immediately, 24 hours a day, to help you begin the cleanup process as quickly as possible so that you can put the trauma behind you for good.

What Commercial Cleaning Means

1/2/2021 (Permalink)

We are experts at cleaning commercial spaces

Cleaning a commercial property is entirely different from routine house cleaning or even more extensive home repair and restoration. At SERVPRO of Plantation we’re trained to provide through commercial cleaning services for properties of every size, from office buildings to restaurants to nursing homes and small businesses.

So what exactly is involved in commercial cleaning?

Our process is comprehensive, covering everything from inspection/assessment to applying the proper treatment methods for any specific issues we identify and even providing thorough remediation to help prevent future problems from occurring.

That can be particularly important if there is any indication of mold in your building, which can be a severe health hazard.

We’ll check areas like the HVAC system and air ducts, look for damage in the ceilings, walls and floors and identify any other mold, water damage or odor issues and use our state-of-the-art equipment to address them.

We can handle biohazards, sewage issues, crime scene cleanup and severe water leaks. We can even help to remove and replace damaged carpets, drapes, blinds and upholstery, all of which can retain nasty odors.

We understand the needs of commercial property owners in the Ft. Lauderdale North area because we’re a local business ourselves.

That’s why SERVPRO is ready to respond quickly and stick with the project until your property is restored to its previous condition

That way you, your employees and your customers can all get back to business as usual.

When Storm Disaster Strikes – We Strike Back: Weather the Storm

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Anywhere Disaster Strikes

“The SERVPRO team of Plantation was an absolute lifesaver for us! My office had a leaking pipe that we fortunately found out about early on Saturday. One call to them was all it took and they responded right away. The team was super friendly and explained everything they were doing and what we could expect cost wise. Fantastic service! I definitely would recommend them to EVERYONE!” - Obi of Plantation FL

Did you know that SERVPRO is nationwide with over 1,700 franchises to date?  Although we come in separate franchises, when disaster strikes, we have the backing of one largest teams in the USA.  The size comes with value.  Bigger projects mean more resources are needed and that is exactly what we have. 

When a major disaster strikes, our teams unite.  “Faster to Any Size Disaster” working hard to make it “Like it never even happened.”

You've got the support, always here to help.

We've supported hundreds of families and businesses like yours before. You are not alone. Whether reactive or preventative, our team can jump into action to make sure things are a success.

Disaster happens. Don't let it get worse before it gets better. 

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Plantation Davie Fire Escape Plan 101

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Plantation Davie Fire Escape Plan Brochure

The Importance of a Fire Escape Plan

Whenever a disaster strikes, it’s important to have an escape route and follow up communication to ensure that everyone is safe.  Whether it be for your Plantation family home or your Davie place of employment, a fire can be a terrible thing.  Many people underestimate the rapid growth and intensity of a fire as well as the dangers associated with it.  From the intense heat that can make you disoriented to the thick black smoke that you would have trouble seeing or breathing through, a fire is no joke.  Your family or business should have a fire escape route that everyone knows of and has practiced getting to.

Are you ready?  Many would love to think, yes.  But unfortunately, on average seven people died in U.S home fires per day based on an NFPA report.  A well thought out plan is very important.

What Makes a Good Fire Escape Plan

A good fire escape plan should include a fire escape route that is mapped out and that includes a layout of your home or business.  Next steps should be listed so those who are out of immediate danger do what they can to help those who may still be in danger.

Fire Escape Tools that should be up to date

Smoke alarms are extremely useful to getting everyone out when a fire occurs.  As a preliminary warning, these devices can safe people who would otherwise have waited to late to take action.

Reach out to emergency services

Once you are safe, its highly important to take a head count and to make sure the proper authorities are contacted so that firefighters can arrive on scene.  Ambulances should also be on scene just in case anyone got hurt or isn’t in good condition and need to be checked out.

After the Fire

Reach out to trained professionals to take next step actions in order to save what can be save within your home.  Even this part can be dangerous and not something for you to try to do on your own. With our experienced team of technicians that have been certified in fire and smoke restoration by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), we have the expertise to handle all facets of fire damage.  In addition, we will be the caring experts by your side to help guide you through the crisis.

You've got the support, always here to help.

We've supported hundreds of Plantation families and Davie businesses like yours before. You are not alone. Whether reactive or preventative, our team can jump into action to make sure things are a success.

Don't let it get worse before it gets better.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Pet Safety and Fire Damage Prevention in Plantation

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke damage and fire damage can destroy lives, please protect your Plantation home.

Fire damage in Plantation can harm animals just as it can harm people. At SERVPRO® of  Plantation, we love our pets as much as you love yours. We could not stand to see them injured or killed in a house fire.

SERVPRO of Plantation shares these pet safety ideas with you:

  • When you design your fire escape plan, practice with your pets
  • If there are fires outside, bring pets inside. If you have to evacuate, you will be ready to bring the pets with you
  • Know where your pets hide. You may not have time to hunt for them in an emergency
  • Animal-rescue groups and other organizations have pet stickers that you can put on your windows and doors. The stickers tell firefighters how many pets you have, and what kinds
  • Prepare evacuation kits for the pets. These kits can be large plastic bins. Put in copies of their vet records, extra leashes and collars, toys, and food

SERVPRO of Plantation reminds you to call the fire department once you are safely outside the Plantation home. Smoke damage and fire damage can destroy lives. Since this week is Fire Prevention Week, please check out these additional safety tips from our friends at the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA).

SERVPRO® of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Campaigns/TakeAction/Household-pets 

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Campaigns/TakeAction/TakeActionPetsChecklist.pdf

Bring Your Pets When You Have to Evacuate Your Home.

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Bring your pets with you when you have to evacuate your home.

Your Pets are Family

Plantation is no stranger to hurricanes or other severe storms. If harsh weather forces an evacuation, SERVPRO® of Plantation agrees that leaving the pets behind is not an option. To make such evacuations easier, we're sharing some information from the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA).

Be Ready before Evacuation is Necessary:

  • Keep all information on tags current
  • Make sure the tags are securely attached to the collar
  • Microchips are good backups, and are important for animals that can't/won't wear collars
  • Keep photos of yourself with each pet
  • Learn which places welcome pets
  • Lists of all medications and conditions
  • Comfortable and secure carrier for each pet
  • Secure leash or harness for each animal (when practical)
  • Copies of all prescriptions

Pets Need Emergency Kits Too:

  • Proof of vaccinations, veterinary records
  • At least a 3-day supply of food and water for each pet
  • First-aid kit
  • Favorite toys and treats
  • Bedding, especially if you can bring the favorites
  • Anything that will ease your pet's anxiety (thunder-shirts, something that smells you)
  • Enough medication for 3 or more days

SERVPRO of Plantation recommends the Red Cross website if you want to learn more.

In case of storm damage or water damage, call SERVPRO of Plantation. We're available 24/7 and are Here to Help. ®

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Things to do for After Storm Water Damage until Help Arrives in Plantation

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Plantation is here 24/7, 365 to help when water damage strikes your home.

If your home or business in Plantation has water damage, you can do some things before help arrives.

Make sure that the building or home is safe.

SERVPRO of Plantation Wants You to Remember:

  • Waterlogged materials are very heavy
  • Wet surfaces are slippery
  • Make sure electrical power is off before you handle devices
  • Make sure you are standing on dry area before you turn on the electric power

SERVPRO of Plantation suggests that you:

  • Remove excess water with mops and/or towels
  • Wipe water from wood furniture or other items
  • Remove wet cushions. Prop them upright to dry
  • Hang up rugs to dry
  • Place foil or blocks between furniture and wet carpeting
  • Turn on dehumidifiers or air-conditioning if it is safe
  • Move colored items from wet carpeting
  • Move artwork to a safe, dry place
  • Move loose items from the floor or counters
  • Start drying items ASAP
  • Remember that mold starts growing within 24 hours
  • Stay away from rooms that have sagging ceilings.

Links:

www.fema.gov 

Fire Evacuation Plan: Florida How to by SERVPRO

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Fire escape plans are very important!!

Fire Evacuation is important for residents all the way south of Pembroke Pines to  north of Las Olas and beyond

A Fire Evacuation is last thing most of us expect in our own home. An extreme event like a house fire seems unlikely, but the truth can be terrifying. We see disasters like this on TV, or hear of them but don't ever really think they can happen to us. In fact, things like this happen more often than not. There were 365,500 house fires in 2015 alone!

Prevention is key for a Fire Evacuation Plan

Keep up to date fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. Recommended by the National Fire Protection Association, you should have one in each room people sleep as well as outside on and in every level of the house.

If a fire happens, these few moments can change the outcome of the entire situation.  The important part is that your family escapes safely.

Tips if a fire occurs:

  • Plan for everyone and involve them in the process. Plan with elderly and even children in consideration so they can keep up with and follow the guidelines. Children remember to react more often when they were involved in the process in the first place.
  • Find multiple ways out. Go to each room of your house and find any exits, including windows and doors. Make sure they all open easily.  You could even install emergency opening devices on any openings to help get through more easily.
  • Choose a meeting spot. Organize a place to meet once out of danger for example a neighbor’s home, or in outside and away from danger near a mailbox or sign. You would need to figure out a public meeting spot where emergency responders can notice you when you arrive at the scene. Everyone involved has to agree and understand that they cannot go back inside to grab any personal items.  Your life is worth more than what can be restored.
  • Set a backup plan. If you are stuck and cannot get out, the best plan of action is to close all doors between you and the immediate fire. You can prevent the fire for getting in the room you are in temporarily by putting a towel in between the bottom crack of the door. Now call the fire department to let them know about the danger.
  • Practice regularly. Practice and review the plan often.

With a smart and well organized plan in place, you can be one step ahead of the disaster and save yourself and those you love.

Safety should be your main priority when considering a Fire Evacuation Plan

After the fire passes, authorities come and the scene is cleared, call a professional restoration company like SERVPRO to support you in your time of need.

If you are in the Dania Beach area, check out this website for events and attractions.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Hurricane Preparedness Has No Off Season: Types of Storm Damage

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricanes can be massive. So can the damage.

Types of Storm Damage

Hurricane Damage can be expected in various forms, from extreme winds, flash flooding caused by heavy long-standing rains, and tornadoes.  Its important that you anticipate this type of damage and are doing the very best to prevent potential damage. 

Unfortunately, some damage is inevitable, so its important to know what you’re dealing with so you know how to prepare to handle the aftermath as well. Below we list a few of them.

Extreme Winds

The extreme winds of a hurricane can range from 74 mph in a minimal storm to greater than 155 mph in a higher ranked storm.

Wind is one of the earth’s many from of erosion and when it’s strong enough, it can cause much of the heavy damage on your property’s structure during a storm. Heavy winds can uproot trees and tear down power lines causing power loss or even more structural damage to whatever is around the area, even your vehicle. The storm also doesn’t have to be in the immediate area either.  Feeder bans can create strong winds that can cause damage long before or even long after the actual storm’s landfall. Often this is actual wind speed combined with the movement speed of the storm.  The speed of the storm can determine how long the storm will be over the area.

Slow moving Storms: Heavy Rains

Heavy rains during hurricanes and slow-moving storms can cause quick major flooding that can affect your property’s structure.  Because bands can expand past the immediate area of the storm, these rains and floods can affect hundreds of miles if homes.

When a hurricane or heavy storm hits it’s very possible for 5 to 10 inches of rapid rain to fall.  Intense flooding can occur in various types of storms, not just including high ranking hurricanes.  This paired with the previously mentioned winds, can cause even more damage.

Other Environmental Factors: Storm Surge

Storm surge occurs when water levels rise rapidly from shores onto land as the eye of a hurricane or storm makes land fall.  The larger the storm, the worse the storm surge occurs.

A combination of the winds and heavy rain mentioned before work together to move water from any surrounding bodies of water onto the shore and the land. This adds to the flooding.

In strong storms, this rising water can move very quickly.  Tons of moving water can come in from the coastline and this can also depend on the direction the storm is going. If the storm approaches perpendicular to the coastline, the surge can be even stronger.

Tides also play a role in this, as higher tides can cause more of an issue.  King tides are examples of seasonal high tides that could add to this issue.  To learn more about King Tides, check out our sister franchise’s informational blog!

Tornado Catastrophic Damage

Hurricanes and Tropical cyclones also can trigger tornadoes and lightning. Each storm can have a unique pattern of frequencies and occurrences that determine how the tornadoes within form.  It can be very different from one storm to the next.

Tornadoes spawned from hurricanes are more likely during an intense hurricane or one that is intensifying at or near landfall.

Source: The Weather Channel

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 if you suffer from any hurricane damage or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media: SERVPRO Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Steps To Protect Your Property During A Hurricane

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are powerful

A hurricane emergency can strike at any time, especially in the Ft. Lauderdale area.

Unfortunately, hurricanes and tropical storms are a regular part of life on the coast

For homeowners that means being prepared and protecting your home and property from storm related damage.

There are steps you can and should take ahead of time to prepare for hurricane season, which generally extends from the end of August through October and sometimes beyond, but there may be times when you have less warning and you may need to move quickly to protect your home. 

Here are a few steps you can take during a hurricane emergency:

  • Guard against wind damage – Strong winds are one of the biggest threats posed by hurricanes and they can do a considerable amount of damage to your home. You should always be sure your gutters are clear and make any needed structural repairs.

    Aside from that, you can guard against wind damage by using safety measures such as roof straps, head and foot bolts on doors and window covers or storm shutters. Also, put caulking around windows and doors and check your drains and sump pumps to avoid water damage.

    You’ll also want to protect any attached structures like porches, decks and carports to be sure they’re stable and take in any outdoor furniture to prevent it from becoming a dangerous projectile.

  • Check your landscaping – It’s not just your house itself that can be damaged during a hurricane. Make sure there are no loose tree branches and tie down any shrubs that might get pulled up so they can’t be blown through windows or walls.

    If you have a gravel driveway or walks, you might also want to consider changing to shredded bark, which is much less destructive when blown.

  • Review your insurance – It’s too late to change your coverage during a hurricane emergency, but you’ll want to review the insurance you have so you know where you stand. That way you won’t face any surprises when it comes time to file a claim.

  • Take photos – Having a thorough record of the current status of your home before the storm hits will be invaluable when you need to file an insurance claim.

    Keeping a comprehensive set of photos of your home, inside and out, will help with taking inventory, something that most insurance companies require.

Of course, it’s not always possible to avoid damage during a hurricane emergency, but if you do face repairs and restoration you don’t have to go it alone.

One of the most important steps you can take to protect your property is to consult with a professional restoration company

The professionals will be able to assess your damage and help to get your home back to normal as quickly and smoothly as possible.

As a part of the Plantation Florida Community, SERVPRO is keenly aware of the potential dangers of a hurricane emergency and our technicians are ready to respond to your call immediately.

With thorough training and state-of-the-art equipment, we’re prepared to handle any of your water mitigation and restoration needs.

We’ll even help you file your insurance claim because we know how complicated and difficult that process can be.

When a hurricane emergency strikes, you can rely on SERVPRO to get you back on your feet in no time. We can make rebuilding after a storm a lot less stressful for you and your family because we treat your home as if it were our own.

For directions.

Commercial Property Damage in Plantation?

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

We clean and restore commercial property damage in Lauderhill.

Emergency Ready Profile

Do you have an Emergency Ready Profile? This is a free service we provide to commercial businesses that allows us to pre-plan for an emergency and tells us critical information about your building. This assessment allows us to speed recovery time and minimize the disruption to your employees, tenants and customers. Emergency damage can happen at any time, and SERVPRO® of Plantation wants Lauderhill business and property owners to know that we are invested in our community and can respond to any size emergency within four hours of your call to immediately begin the cleanup and restoration process.

No Job is Too Big

No matter what type of commercial business you may have, we are Here to Help. ®

We can work on any size job including:

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

In the event of a disaster, our Disaster Recovery Team can be mobilized to respond to help large-loss jobs for:

  • The Hospitality Industry
  • Property Managers
  • Universities
  • Municipalities
  • The Pentagon

Call Us Today

When you need commercial property damage repairs for your home or business, SERVPRO® of Plantation wants to help. Call us today at 954-280-8282. We’ll clean and restore your water damage in Lauderhill “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Plantation is Independently Owned and Operated.

Water Damage in Plantation?

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

We clean and restore water damage in El Dorado Estates.

Specialty Trained

Water damage can happen any time anywhere. Pipes can leak, water can seep into your home or business from storm runoff or poor drainage conditions. Broken roof tiles or roof shingles can allow water to leak into the house or structure, and windows improperly framed can let water seep in as well. Hurricane season brings high winds and rain that can also cause damage. SERVPRO® of Plantation wants El Dorado Estates homeowners to know that we are specialty trained and certified to deal with any type of water damage emergency.

Inspection Process

During the inspection and water damage assessment process, we will conduct a thorough and detailed inspection of your home in order to determine the best plan of action. During this process we will stop the source of the water and check for contaminated water. There are three categories for water damage, that depending on the level of contamination, will determine the restoration process we will use for your job:

  • Category 1: "Clean Water"
  • Category 2: "Gray Water"
  • Category 3: "Black Water"

Once we have determined the water category, we will extract the water, dry, clean, sanitize and deodorize the area including odor removal, and will restore the area to preloss condition.

Call Us Today

When you need emergency water damage repairs for your home or business, SERVPRO® of Plantation wants to help. Call us today at 954-280-8282. We’ll clean and restore your water damage in El Dorado Estates “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Plantation is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO of Plantation Mops Up Moisture in Lauderhill

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Plantation Doesn’t Rain on Your Parade

Anyone who has seen the Grand Canyon knows a little water can have big effects.

Homes and businesses in Lauderhill don’t need to wait millions of years to suffer water damage from floods, storms, or leaks. It takes only minutes for water to start damaging furniture, wood, drywall, or documents. As soon as you notice water damage, call SERVPRO® of Plantation. We are Faster to any size disaster, so we can prevent further damage and restore the property.

SERVPRO of Plantation removes water and any moisture. We use a combination of water-removal devices, including pumps and dehumidifiers, and have dryers for building materials and the building contents.

Microbial growth starts within 24-48 hours. SERVPRO of Plantation will make sure it doesn’t start. If we get there after the growth has started, we’ll stop the growth and remediate the damage.

We also work directly with most insurance companies.

Call (954) 280-8282 or reach us online.

We are available 24/7/365.

We are Here to Help®

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Link:

https://www.greenbuilt.org/the-top-3-ways-that-water-destroys-our-homes-and-buildings/

https://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

A grocery store employee is pulling groceries off the conveyor belt and ringing up the prices.

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO commercial cleaning services give employees and customers peace of mind in Plantation.

Broward County Businesses Begin Opening in May

Now more than ever has it been crucial to keep homes and commercial businesses clean and disinfected to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus, COVID-19. Commercial businesses benefit from the deep cleaning services that SERVPRO® of Plantation offers to residents and business owners in El Dorado Estates. Unlike routine janitorial services, our deep cleaning services range from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants and infectious bacteria. We use EPA-approved, hospital-grade cleaning products and disinfectants to decontaminate surfaces and kill biological contaminants similar to COVID-19 on steel, copper, plastic, wood, and fabric surfaces. Other kinds of commercial cleaning services include:

Call Us Today

If you find yourself needing help with your commercial business, SERVPRO of Plantation wants to help. El Dorado Estates residents and business owners can trust us out team of highly trained and skilled professionals to take care of any commercial cleanup and restoration service including water, fire, and other property damage. We are on call 24 hours a day and can be on site in four hours of your call. Call us today at 954-280-8282. We’ll take care of your commercial damage needs “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO Restores Damage to Your Home in Plantation Acres “Like it never even happened.”

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides restoration services to homeowners in Plantation.

Did you know that SERVPRO® of Plantation has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and is one of the highest rated restoration companies in Broward County on Google? We are proud of the extraordinary services we offer to the residents of Plantation Acres and want you to know that no matter what type of home or property damage you may need to restore, we are Here to Help®. Our highly trained professionals are available 24 hours a day to respond to your call. We use state-of-the-art equipment and technology to assess the damage and immediately begin the cleanup and restoration process. Here are the services we offer:

If you find yourself needing help with emergency property damage repairs for your home or business, SERVPRO of Plantation wants to help. We will work with Plantation Acres residents to minimize the disruption that an emergency can cause and will work with you to manage the insurance paperwork and process. Our on-call staff have vehicles that are fully equipped to handle any type of damage. Call us today at 954-280-8282. We’ll take care of your property damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Water Damage Clean-up and Prevention Tips for Plantation

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen at any time in Sunrise, FL.

Water damage can occur at any time. SERVPRO® of Plantation wants commercial and residential property owners in Sunrise to know that water damage in commercial buildings and residences can not only be unsanitary, it can also be dangerous as items that are not thoroughly dried out can cause mold. Here are some tips from the American Red Cross to follow in the event of water damage to your business or home:

  • Pump out flooded basements gradually (about one-third of the water per day) to avoid structural damage.
  • Bring all soft items outside if possible – sunlight and wind will help them dry faster
  • Throw out items that have absorbed water and cannot be cleaned or disinfected
  • Remove all drywall and insulation that has been in contact with floodwaters
  • Consider removing vinyl floor coverings and tile to allow the substructures beneath or behind them to dry
  • Keep the windows open and run fans – or keep them shut and run dehumidifiers to pull moisture out of wood floors and subfloors, beams, doors, etc.

If you find yourself dealing with water damage, SERVPRO of Plantation wants to help. Our highly trained water restoration technicians are ready to meet the needs of Cottage Hill business owners and residents alike. Call us today at 954-280-8282 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your water damage problem “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO of Plantation takes care of El Dorado Estates

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Plantation can clean biohazards in El Dorado Estates

El Dorado Estates is beautiful, but disasters can even drop into this paradise. When damage strikes a home or business, call SERVPRO of Plantation at (954) 280-8282 or reach out to us online. On the phone or online, someone will call you within an hour. Speed matters, so we are Faster to any size disaster

SERVPRO of Plantation handles anything from one small room in a home to entire business complexes. We are a local company, so job is too small. We have access to national resources, so no job is too large.

Speed and caring are two of the reasons to hire SERVPRO of Plantation. Others are:

Local expertise

El Dorado Estates, like all cities in Florida, have high risk of fire damage. Our technicians have excellent training in clean-up and restoration after damage from smoke and soot.

Only people who have training and equipment should clean biohazards from wildlife, crime scenes, or accidents. People without training and equipment endanger themselves and possibly others.  SERVPRO of Plantation has extensive training and the latest, best equipment.

National reach

We are one of over 1,700 franchises in the United States and Canada. If there is a widespread disaster, we can call on neighboring franchises to lend experts and equipment.

Whatever happens, SERVPRO of Plantation is Here to Help®

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO of Plantation is Proud to Help Nob Hill

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Plantation will make your business safe from mold

SERVPRO of Plantation cares about business in and around Nob Hill because we are part of the community.

Call us to take care of your business when disaster threatens to stall work. SERVPRO of Nob Hill knows how important it is to get back in operation. We have expertise and equipment to take buildings back from:

SERVPRO of Plantation will restore your business "Like it never even happened." ®

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO Provides Building Services in Hawks Landing “Like it never even happened.”

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides building restoration services in Plantation.

In the event of emergency damage to your home or business do you know what temporary protective measures to take, and do you have the equipment and supplies on hand? SERVPRO® of Plantation wants the residents of Hawks Landing to know that when you experience damage to your property due to a storm, fire, or water, SERVPRO will respond and take temporary protective measures to prevent additional damage. Services like tarping a roof or boarding up and securing a building, and removing water and debris are some examples. After protecting your property, reconstruction work may be necessary to restore your property back to preloss condition. We will supervise a full range of restoration services to simplify and streamline the rebuilding process including:

  • Drywall installation
  • Electrical
  • General contracting
  • HVAC services
  • Marble, tile, hardwood, or linoleum floor repair
  • Plumbing
  • Carpet repair and installation
  • Painting
  • Roofing services
  • Fine art repair
  • Document drying
  • Electronics restoration
  • Moveout
  • Temporary warehouse space to store contents

If you find yourself needing help with building services or any other emergency property damage repairs for your home or business, SERVPRO of Plantation wants to help. We are available 24 hours a day and have the specialized equipment necessary to restore damaged properties and residences in Hawks Landing. Call us today at 954-280-8282. We’ll take care of your property damage making it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO Provides Commercial Restoration Services in Nob Hill

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

We’ll cleanup and restore your business in Plantation “Like it never even happened.”

Every day your office or commercial business is closed due to repairs is a day of lost revenue. SERVPRO® of Plantation understands this and wants business owners of Nob Hill to know that when water, fire or storm damage happens, we are ready to respond 24 hours a day and begin the cleanup and restoration services immediately to get your business back up and running. We are prepared to handle any size job such as small office buildings, large high-rise office buildings and large office complexes, apartment buildings, restaurants, hotels and motels, retails stores, manufacturing plants and government buildings. We offer commercial services including:

If your large or small office or building requires commercial cleanup and restoration services SERVPRO of Plantation wants to help. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and have the specialized equipment and the experienced technicians necessary to safely clean and restore damaged properties and residences in Nob Hill. Call us today at 954-280-8282. We’ll restore your commercial damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO of Plantation Will Outwit Storm Damage

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Plantation is Here To Help when disaster strikes.

SERVPRO® of Plantation is local, so we know just how common storms are in this area. We also know that even the best prepared residential and commercial properties can end up with water damage or structural damage from lightning, high winds, heavy rainfall, and even hail.

When something happens, call us at 954-280-8282. We are available 24/7, even on holidays. We are also available online. SERVPRO of Plantation prides itself on being Faster to any size disaster because

  • Speed matters
  • No disaster is small to those who live with it

If there is water damage, there will be mold, but the water causes enough damage alone that professionals need to start assessment and control/repair right away.

SERVPRO technicians are trained in the use of the latest equipment and restoration techniques. We also work with your insurance company so you can take care of your families and employees.

When fire and water take control of your life,

we help you take it back.

SERVPRO of  Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/choosedates.jsp?statefips=12%2CFLORIDA

http://www.myflorida.com/search_results.html?q=weather#gsc.tab=0&gsc.q=storms

SERVPRO Provides Biohazard Cleanup Services in Plantation

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides biohazard cleanup and restoration services in Sunrise “Like it never even happened.”

Potential biohazards can be found and can occur anywhere including the home, the classroom, the doctor’s office or a place of business. According to the Centers for Disease Control, biohazard exposure should be minimized and mitigated by professionals trained to clean and dispose of potentially harmful waste and spills. SERVPRO® of Plantation wants the residents of Sunrise to know that when you are in need of biohazard cleanup, we are here to help. Our technicians undergo specialized training and have the experience necessary to resolve and decontaminate your home or business. Here are some of the biohazard cleanup services we offer:

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

If you find yourself needing help with biohazard cleanup and restoration services or any other emergency such as property damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Plantation wants to help. We are available 24 hours a day and have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damaged properties and residences in Sunrise. Call us today at 954-280-8282. We’ll take care of your property damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Why SERVPRO Provides Cleanup and Restoration Services to Plantation Gardens

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides cleanup and restoration services in Plantation “Like it never even happened.”

Did you know that a report from the Insurance Information Institute predicts that losses along the Florida cost are expected in increase every decade?  SERVPRO® of Plantation knows that business and homeowners of Plantation Gardens will benefit from our highly trained specialists that are on hand to take care of your emergency cleanup and restoration needs. Our ability to immediately respond to an emergency helps to minimize the damage, cleaning and restoration costs. Here are some of the many damage cleanup and restoration services we provide:

  • Commercial water damage cleanup and restoration
  • Fire damage cleanup and restoration
  • Water damage cleanup and restoration
  • Mold remediation and mitigation services
  • Sewage cleanup
  • Storm damage
  • Building services
  • Carpet and upholstery cleaning
  • Odor removal
  • Biohazard removal
  • Carpet and upholstery cleaning
  • Odor removal
  • Cleaning services.
  • Mold remediation and mitigation services
  • Commercial storm and major events

If you find yourself needing help with property damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Plantation wants to help. We are available 24 hours a day and our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damaged properties and residences in Plantation Gardens. Call us today at 954-280-8282 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your property damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO Provides Water Cleanup and Restoration Services to Sunrise Lakes.

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage cleanup and restoration in Plantation “Like it never even happened.”

Did you know that every day you wait to get help with water damage the price of the cleanup and restoration services can increase dramatically? SERVPRO® of Plantation wants you to know waiting even a week to have water repairs done increases the time and cost of the repairs significantly. This is because the longer water sits in a structure, the more time the water has to absorb into the floors and other areas, causing greater damage to the building. Business and homeowners of Sunrise Lakes will benefit from our highly trained specialists that are on hand to take care of your emergency cleanup and restoration needs. Our ability to immediately respond to a water emergency helps to minimize the damage, cleaning and restoration costs. Here are some of the water damage cleanup and restoration services SERVPRO of Plantation provide:

  • Water cleanup and restoration
  • Carpet and upholstery cleaning
  • Odor removal
  • Cleaning services.
  • Mold remediation and mitigation services
  • Commercial storm and major events
  • Disaster recovery team

If you find yourself needing help with water damage, SERVPRO of Plantation wants to help. We are available 24 hours a day and our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore water damaged properties and residences in Sunrise Lakes. Call us today at 954-280-8282 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO Provides Water Cleanup and Restoration Services to Lauderhill.

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage cleanup and restoration in Lauderhill “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Plantation wants you to know that when water causes damage to a commercial business, every hour spent restoring that business back to pre-damage condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Waiting even a week to have water repairs done increases the time and cost of the repair dramatically. Business and homeowners of Lauderhill will benefit from our highly trained specialists that are on hand to take care of your emergency cleanup and restoration needs. Our ability to immediately respond to a water emergency helps to minimize the damage, cleaning and restoration costs. Here are some of the water damage cleanup and restoration services we provide:

  • Commercial water cleanup and restoration
  • Carpet and upholstery cleaning
  • Odor removal
  • Commercial cleaning
  • Commercial mold remediation and mitigation services
  • Commercial storm and major events
  • Disaster recovery team

If you find yourself help with commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Plantation wants to help. We are available 24 hours a day and our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore properties damaged by water in Lauderhill. Call us today at 954-280-8282 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your commercial water damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Tips for Standing Water in Plantation

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Plantation is ready to help you when property disaster strikes.

A flood doesn’t end once the storm stops. We still have to deal with all that standing water. The flood water can take up to 11 days to disappear. It’s not time to go fishing.

If you have to evacuate your office, do not go back until you have been told it is safe.

Be careful driving in Plantation.  Remember to “Go around. Don’t Drown!” The water may still be too deep for safe travel.

Floods are not natural swimming pools

  • Sewage, debris, and other unpleasant things can be in the storm water leftovers
  • Swimming, wading, or rafting can make you sick  
  • Don’t drink the water
  • Water conducts electricity.  Underground power lines can give you a dangerous shock

Flood waters vs. Animals in Plantation:

  • Snakes and other animals may get into your building. Wear work boots and heavy gloves when you clean up
  • Some animals might find your office a cozy place to live
  • If tap water is unsafe to drink, it is unsafe for your pets

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/floods 

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/extreme-weather/floods-standingwater.html

Who Should I Use for Restoration Purposes in Plantation

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Who should I use?

Emergency situations usually call for quick reaction. In cases where a home or business structure in Plantation is being compromised by unhealthy and/or unsafe conditions, SERVPRO of Plantation is the-fast-response you need to get relief.  Chaotic situations can be handled or endured in an orderly fashion with professionals and the right tools applied. When you must choose your clean-up/restoration specialist, you are likely considering a few important things:

  • Convenient location
  • 24/7 availability
  • Professionalism
  • Efficiency
  • Honesty
  • Experience
  • Latest equipment

SERVPRO of Plantation is the answer.

In a problematic and possibly chaotic situation, remember, we’re here to help.  SERVPRO of Plantation are business owners, homeowners and renters just like you so we understand the initial needs. Our promise to you is to provide the same quality and integrity based service that we, as your neighbor, may also need in the future.

Ease your Burden when Disaster Happens in Plantation

2/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Plantation is ready 24/7, 365 to help make it "Like it never even happened."

When disaster strikes…

For many, your home in Plantation represents a lifetime of hard work and a place where roots are important. It is where family gathers, and where your most endearing and important memories are made. When a disaster strikes; whether it be fire, storm, mold, or other water damage/flooding, it will likely be one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. When these things happen and stress is high call us. Our professionalism and rapid response time, as well as our nonintrusive clean up and exit should do much to ease the burden you are bearing. SERVPRO of Plantation really does want to help you carry the load.

…we’ll be there to ease your burden.

Sharing a load to SERVPRO of Plantation means our work makes your situation more bearable. Twenty-four hours a day/seven days a week we are on call with equipment that is up-to-date, and people who are professional and efficient. Our goal is to keep you moving forward with as little worry as possible in Plantation. Please contact us online or at (954) 280-8282.

Sharing the SERVPRO History in Plantation

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Plantation is Here To Help.

Why SERVPRO?

Ted Isaacson opened the first SERVPRO® in 1967 in Sacramento, California selling his first Franchise in 1969.  In 1988 the SERVPRO headquarters moved to Gallatin, Tennessee. SERVPRO now has 1700+ Franchises in the United States and Canada. SERVPRO of Plantation specializes in cleanup and restoration services in Plantation. We can make your fire, smoke, water, or mold damage “Like it never even happened.” 

What does SERVPRO of Plantation do?

SERVPRO of Plantation provides:

  • residential & commercial cleanup of:
    • water/ flood damage
    • fire damage
    • storm damage
  • mold remediation
  • restoration

SERVPRO of Plantation performs these specialties, including:

  • Water Restoration
  • Fire Restoration
  • Mold Removal
  • Biohazard
  • Sewage
  • Drapes and Blinds
  • Odor Removal
  • Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup
  • Vandalism and Graffiti
  • Air Ducts and HVAC
  • Ceilings, Floors, and Walls
  • Carpet and Upholstery



SERVPRO of Plantation works directly with most insurance companies, and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in Plantation.

Why SERVPRO of Plantation? Each franchise is an individually owned and operated company.  We have advanced expertise in water restoration along with specialized equipment in water removal and also advanced drying equipment.  

Technicians at SERVPRO of Plantation will keep you informed as they restore your damage so you will know what SERVPRO did, and how the process worked.  


SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Control Moisture to Help Stop Mold Growth in Lauderhill

1/12/2020 (Permalink)

Don't allow hidden mold to affect your office. SERVPRO of Plantation can help eliminate any damage from mold.

Condensation and Mold in Lauderhill.

There are many different kinds of mold. EVERY SINGLE ONE needs moisture to grow.

Mold doesn’t need a storm or flood. Even a tiny bit of dampness is enough for mold.

Have you seen condensed water on the inside of a window? Have you noticed water droplets near the shower?  That water is more than enough for mold to start growing.

SERVPRO of Plantation wants you to know: if you control moisture, you control mold.

Control Moisture:

  • Clean spills or leaks quickly. Mold can start growing within 24 hours
  • Make sure roof gutters are in good shape
  • Don’t let water collect around the house foundation
  • Don’t let water collect in the air-conditioner drip pans
  • Keep drains clear
  • Indoor humidity should be under 40%
  • Wipe condensation from windows, pipes, or walls

SERVPRO of Plantation offers these suggestions:

  • Use exhaust fans
  • Use air conditioners and/or dehumidifiers. Low humidity reduces condensation
  • Use the bathroom fan when you shower
  • Appliances should vent to the outside. Even stoves, washers and dryers produce water vapor

SERVPRO of Plantation has ideas on reducing condensation:

  • Increase air movement
    • Open doors & windows
    • Use fans
  • Insulate cold surfaces like water pipes
  • Keep  the temperature comfortable

Links:

https://www.epa.gov/mold/brief-guide-mold-moisture-and-your-home

Fire Damage from Arson in Plantation

1/1/2020 (Permalink)

While many fires are accidental, or just a natural disaster, some fires can be avoided.

SERVPRO of Plantation wants you to be aware of the causes of fire damage and fire injuries so that you can help prevent them.

Top Causes of Fires in Plantation: 

  • Arson & intentional fires. An “intentional fire” is one that is not set to cause harm, but it gets out of control. Arson is a fire that is set to cause harm. Most of the time, arson and intentional fires are set outside. Deaths, injuries, and fire damage usually happen indoors
  • Candles. SERVPRO of Plantation has more information here.
  • Cooking.  Kitchen fires are the leading cause of home fire injuries and home fire damage
  • Electrical. Use all electrical equipment according to the directions 
  • Heating. Heating equipment is the second most common cause of death in home fires
  • December, January, and February are the months that have the most home heating fires
  • Smoking. Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other smoking materials are the biggest cause of fire deaths in the U.S. Think of preventing tragedy when explaining why to quit smoking
  • Children. Children should never be left alone with matches, lighters, candles, or other dangerous materials. Children playing with fire cause hundreds of deaths and injuries every year

Please pay attention to fire safety. While we can help restore your Plantation home or office, prevention and family safety should always come first. Share this blog with a friend who might want to learn more about fire prevention.

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire

Roof Tarps can help Water Leaks in Plantation

12/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Plantation is ready to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

If you live in Plantation, you know that you might experience almost any kind of weather at any time of the year. With this in mind, there is a chance you could be forced to deal with water damage to your home or office. SERVPRO of Plantation knows that anything can happen without much warning. For example, if you have a small leak in your roof, you need to be extremely cautious as to how you handle it because if we do experience heavy rainfall, that small leak could turn into an emergency really quick.

SERVPRO of Plantation is ready to help if you need us, but we also want you to be prepared. If you notice a roof leak, you could try to make a temporary leak patch using something like plywood and some roofing tar, but if you still have a leak and want to call the professionals, we are ready and able to tarp your roof to get through the storm. After the weather has cleared, we can return to repair both the roof and any damage you experienced from excess water.

Don’t let storms in PLantation get you down. 

SERVPRO is “ready for whatever happens.®”

Tips to Prevent Kitchen Fire in Plantation

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

Plantation home fires caused from cooking.

SERVPRO of Plantation understands that cooking equipment is a leading cause of fire damage and fire injuries in your Plantation home.

To help prevent fire damage, SERVPRO of Plantation shares these tips. They make more sense than not cooking at home.

  • Many kitchen items can catch fire, including: dish towels, oven mitts, recipes, wooden tools, and loose clothing
  • Never operate the stove or oven when you are tired or have been drinking alcohol
  • If you are frying, broiling, grilling, or boiling food, stay in the kitchen. If you leave, even for a short time, turn off the heat
  • Keep flammable items at least three feet from the stove top
  • Do not allow children within two to four feet of the stove or oven
  • If you must leave the house while cooking of any kind, turn off the heat sources

Remember that fire is fast. If you cannot contain a fire immediately, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside your City or County home.



SERVPRO of Plantation reminds you that fire prevention is the best strategy against fire damage. 

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/

Safety Tips when using Candles in Plantation

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

Holiday fire dangers.

Although fires from candles happen more often around the holidays, many people use candles all year round. SERVPRO® of Plantation wants you to be safe from fire and smoke damage. It is important to be careful any time you have an open flame in your Plantation home. 

Fire Prevention is the best way to fight against fire damage or injuries.

SERVPRO of Plantation offers these Tips for Fire Prevention from Candles:

  • Do not let children near candles
  • Keep trees and other plants away from candles
  • Make sure candles are not near window curtains or blinds that could catch fire
  • Keep lit candles in safe candle holders
  • Do not leave children alone in a room with lit candles
  • Do not light candles in the bedroom. You might fall asleep. One third of all candle fires start in the bedroom. 
  • If the power goes out, use flashlights instead of candles
  • If someone in the home uses oxygen, do not use candles
  • Fire damage from candles happens 35 times a day in the U.S.
  • Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire
  • Put out candles when leaving the room or going to bed

A little caution goes a long way to protect you and your loved ones. If you have to deal with damage caused by smoke or fire from a candle in your Plantation home, your friends at SERVPRO of Plantation  are just a phone call away. 

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/ 

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Candles

https://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets/religious_candles_safety_tips.pdf 

Preventing Mold Damage in your Basement in Plantation

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

Mold growth can bring your business to a halt.

SERVPRO of Plantation wants to help educate others about mold: 

Mold:

  • can grow almost anywhere 
  • to grow, needs:
    • above-freezing temperatures
    • protein, such as in animal dander, skin cells, wood, plaster, carpet
    • moisture
    • oxygen
  • grows rapidly
  • damages property
  • thrives in basements

SERVPRO of Plantation  is licensed in mold remediation. We know that the best offense against mold is a good defense. Check frequently for leaky appliances that may drip into your basement causing mold to grow. Mold can also affect your health by producing allergens and irritants. You should never work with mold without having the proper equipment to protect yourself. SERVPRO of Plantation  has the training and equipment to remediate mold. 

SERVPRO of Plantation suggests the following criteria for preventing mold damage in your basement:

  • Maintain humidity below 40%
  • Use water-resistant materials in building/repairing the basement
  • Use galvanized or stainless-steel hardware
  • Repair leaky pipes
  • Cover any dirt in crawl spaces. This will prevent water from seeping through the ground
  • Ventilate the basement
  • Elevate equipment and inventory above the floor



Links:

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf

https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-remediation-schools-and-commercial-buildings-guide

Unclog Gutters to Prevent Water Damage

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Keeping Your Gutters Clean in Plantation

No one in Plantation has to worry about whether it will rain. SERVPRO® of Plantation has no way of changing that, but we can help residents and business owners prevent water damage by sharing this information about gutters.

Keep the Gutters Clear in Plantation:

  • Gutters channel water from the roof to downspouts, so it flows safely away from the building
  • Because debris ends up in the gutters, you should clean them twice a year
  • Debris such as twigs, leaves, and litter can clog the gutters
  • When gutters are clogged, rain may cause water damage to the roof, the foundation, or the basement
  • When you clean the gutters, check seams, bends, and downspouts for debris
  • Replace broken or missing struts and screens
  • Be sure to check the seams, downspouts, and bends
  • A pressure washer or a plumber's snake may be useful for clearing obstructions that are hard to reach
  • Find out if any downspouts lead to underground pipes and check those for clogs or debris

Clear gutters aren't the only means to prevent water damage, and storm damage can strike even buildings with the clearest gutters. If you need help, call SERVPRO of Plantation. We will make your place look “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Links: https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/diy-repair/how-to-unclog-gutter/

https://www.fema.gov/

Preventing Mold Growth in Sunrise

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

Just say "no" to mold in Sunrise, by taking these simple steps.

Who should you call when you have a mold problem? We hope you never have to deal with a mold problem in your office building, but if it turns out that you are facing some damage, SERVPRO® of Plantation can help.

Mold can start growing in as little as 24 hours of exposure to moisture.

To prevent mold from getting a start in your commercial property, SERVPRO of Plantation suggests:

  • Elevate equipment above basement floor
  • Repair leaky pipes
  • Remove any damp areas near sinks and tubs
  • Maintain humidity below 40%
  • Use water-resistant materials when you build or rebuild. Materials include:
    • galvanized or stainless-steel hardware
    • waterproof wallboard
    • tile
    • sealed stone
    • sealed concrete
    • water-resistant glues
    • synthetic fibers
  • Use gutters to divert rain water
  • Landscape, so water moves away from the house
  • Cover dirt in crawl spaces. Moisture can seep up through dirt
  • Ventilate as much as possible

Important:

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines a “large amount” of mold as 10 square feet or more. The EPA rules that only licensed professionals can remediate large areas and SERVPRO of Plantation is licensed in mold remediation.

We cannot prevent storms, floods, or leaks, but when disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Plantation can help you clean up the damage.

Links:

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf

Preparing for Storms and Water Damage in Plantation

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

When storms cause water damage, SERVPRO of Plantation will be there to help remediate the destruction to your home or office.

When storms are headed our way, we may not think the worse outcome could happen. While storms can be beautiful, they can turn deadly in just moments. Being prepared will help minimize harm to people and bring less damage to your property. If you find yourself in the aftermath of a storm, let SERVPRO of Plantation turn your chaos back to normal.

A few ways to prepare for a storm with strong winds are:

  • Have a flashlight readily available in case of a power outage
  • Board up windows and doors ahead of time, if possible
  • Secure loose items
  • Have an emergency kit ready including non-perishable foods and water
  • Make a plan ahead of time so your family will know what to do

Your local meteorologists will monitor the weather conditions in your area keeping you informed on what type of storm is happening. A storm Watch indicates they are watching for formations of specific types (flooding, severe thunderstorms, hail, tornadoes, etc.)  A storm Warning means there are property and life-threatening conditions occurring so you should take precautions.

Once the storm has passed in Plantation, please continue to be careful walking in your home as there could be loose debris, and compromised structures, etc. Wear boots, and gloves to help protect yourself but above all call the professionals at SERVPRO of Plantation to make your loss “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.fema.gov/news-release/2015/05/07/fema-severe-weather-approaches-prepare-stay-informed-and-make-plan

Things to do for Water Damage until Help Arrives in Lauderhill

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

When water damage gets you down, SERVPRO of Plantation is “Here to Help!”

If your home or business in Lauderhill suffers any type of water damage, there are some things you can do before help arrives. First, make sure the building or home is safe to be in, then call SERVPRO of Plantation. We will be there to make your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Plantation Wants You to Remember:

  • Waterlogged materials are very heavy
  • Wet surfaces are slippery
  • Make sure electrical power is off before you handle devices
  • Make sure you are standing on dry area before you turn on the electric power

SERVPRO of Plantation suggests that you:

  • Remove excess water with mops and/or towels
  • Wipe water from wood furniture or other items
  • Remove wet cushions. Prop them upright to dry
  • Hang up rugs to dry
  • Place foil or blocks between furniture and wet carpeting
  • Turn on dehumidifiers or air-conditioning if it is safe
  • Move colored items from wet carpeting
  • Move artwork to a safe, dry place
  • Move loose items from the floor or counters
  • Start drying items ASAP
  • Remember that mold starts growing within 24 hours
  • Stay away from rooms that have sagging ceilings

While we know we cannot avoid water damages altogether, we can certainly work together to bring your Lauderhill home or business back to its preloss condition.

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Links:

www.fema.gov

Tips to Put Out Fires in the Kitchen Safely in Sunrise

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

Please keep Sunrise safe from fire damage and practice safety in the kitchen.

SERVPRO of Plantation knows that many home fires start in the kitchen. Some kitchen fires are small enough that you may be able to put them out with a fire extinguisher. By being proactive, you can save yourself and others from fire and smoke injuries in your Sunrise home.

Remember that fire is fast. If you cannot contain a fire immediately in your Sunrise home, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside the home.

SERVPRO of Plantation offers these tips for handling a small cooking fire:

  • If the fire is on the stove top or in a pot, put a lid on the fire to smother the flames. Turn off the burner
  • If a cloth on the stove top is on fire, put a lid on the fire to smother the flames. Turn off any burners 
  • Do not use water on a gas fire or a grease fire. Pot lids will smother a fire. You can also use (a lot of) baking soda. Pour a box of baking soda on the fire
  • If the fire is in the oven, turn off the heat. Close the oven door.

IMPORTANT:

Never leave firefighting to chance. SERVPRO of Plantation knows that objects can be replaced.  People and pets cannot.

SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire

Fire Damage Prevention Tips for Plantation

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Changing smoke detector batteries prevents fire damage.

Experiencing residential fire damage or commercial fire damage in Plantation can be scary and overwhelming. Fires cannot be completely prevented. SERVPRO® of Plantation is aware of this as we assist in the cleanup of damage left by the flames and the smoke. The American Red Cross has developed a list of tips that can help assist in minimizing the probability of a fire damage occurring.

Fire safety tips:

  • Install smoke alarms in the home or office area on every level of the building
  • Test smoke alarms every month and replace the smoke detector batteries if needed
  • Create a fire escape plan with family members or coworkers and practice the drill twice a year
  • In the event that a fire does occur, do not try and fight it – get out of the area and call for help

Safety is always a top priority in any situation, but especially in a fire situation. Being prepared can make a big difference in the outcome of a fire, in your commercial property or business.

If a fire has happened in the Plantation area and needs to be cleaned up, the trained team members of SERVPRO of Plantation are leaders in fire cleanup and restoration. 

Independently owned and operated by SERVPRO of Plantation

Link: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire.html

Plantation Home Toilet Leak?

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO team prepare to support Plantation Florida. Ready to handle any leaks, even Toilet Leaks!

Home Toilet Leaks are the Worst

Plantation Florida’s weather is basically Florida's weather, right?  We have enough dealing with water damage caused by storms.  What makes things worse is when your home appliances are the cause of water damage, for example a toilet leak.  Anything from a kitchen sink to a bathroom toilet leak can be a pain to get taken care of.  These problems and the costs associated with them can really be prevented if you know what to look for.

Toilet Leak Signs

If your toilet has recurring problems, it may be time to make a change or get it maintained. Every situation is different because of the type of toilet leak and the way the bathroom is oriented. Here are a few tips to know ahead of time if your toilet leak means it needs to be changed or maintained to prevent the problem.

  • If you ever notice water coming from where the toilet is secured to the ground, it is more than likely a leak or a faulty seal around the base of your toilet. This area can get worn out over years of use.  Water from this type of toilet leak is not always safe and may end up raising your water bill pricing too.
  • If your toilet is always sounding like there is flowing water, this may be an internal problem with the system that controls how much water is used during a flush. This may bring up your water bill, but it may also cause an overflow at some point which wouldn’t be nice to come home to.
  • Rust on a toilet isn’t just an unpleasant physical feature. It usually means that the part needs to be changed or restored before it creates a worse situation. You also don’t want to find yourself getting cut on a rusted surface.
  • Other sounds like hissing or screeching are usually a sign that something is wrong internally with your toilet. Water may be making this sound as it passes through an area that has a disturbance or wear and tear.

Take Action

If you have water damage due to a toilet leak in Plantation Florida or any of the local areas, it’s best to reach out to the professionals. SERVPRO of Plantation is here to handle the problem at its source. Often, recurring problems occur when a homeowner tries to fix the toilet leak on their own without the proper equipment or training.

You've got the support, always here to help.

We've supported hundreds of families and businesses like yours before. You are not alone. Whether reactive or preventative, our team can jump into action to make sure things are a success.

Don't let it get worse before it gets better.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

2019 Hurricane Prep Tips

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane Prep is Key

Even with Hurricane Dorian just passing by the South Florida area, 2019's hurricane season isn't in the clear yet. Florida residents should have their hurricane prep ready for any disaster.

SERVPRO of Plantation is here to help with these 2019 hurricane ready preparation tips.

2019 Hurricane Prep tips:

  • Make sure to have a plan for evacuation or any other situation that may be likely to happen during a storm.  For example, flooding etc.
  • Cash is king whenever electricity is out, so make sure you keep some money in your possession as some banks can be closed for days until power is restored.
  • Invest in a battery powered or hand crank radio to stay up-to-date on what's going on in your area.
  • If you can't stay with friends or family outside of evacuation zones, be aware of your nearest hurricane shelter, and overnight kennels for your furry friends.
  • Fill your vehicle's gas tank and any gas cans ahead of time.
  • Before a storm hits be sure you've stocked up on clean drinking water or bottled water- one gallon per person per day for no less than three days.
  • Fill large freezer bags with water and freeze them with your freezer turned to its coldest setting. If the power goes out, you'll have blocks of ice to preserve things in the fridge and coolers.
  • Consider boarding up your house and going out of town until officials in your area say it's safe to return.

It's 2019.  Let's Face it, We Need Our Devices..

  • Charge all of your devices and make sure that you have a couple of spare batteries for your mobile devices.  Businesses and home offices have backup batteries for their computers and other large appliances so they can save their work or even contact emergency services if the need be after their electricity goes out.
  • Having an abundance of flash lights or lanterns in the home isn't a bad idea. Obviously, this means to make sure you have them charged or you have a steady stock of batteries so your devices last a long while after the storm.
  • Unplug TVs, computers, and appliances before the storm to avoid damages to electronics.

Hurricane prep is the most important skill for a south Florida family. Your hurricane preparation should be complete well before a storm hits.  The American Red Cross has a complete hurricane preparation checklist available hereSERVPRO of Plantation hopes you have a safe and damage-free storm season, but should disaster strike, SERVPRO of Plantation will arrive "Faster to Any Disaster" and make it "Like it Never Even Happened."

You've got the support, always here to help. Don't let it get worse before it gets better. 

We've supported hundreds of families and businesses like yours before. You are not alone. Whether reactive or preventative, our team can jump into action to make sure things are a success.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Rising Water Tips for "Sunny" South Florida

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Rising Water Cause for Concern

Florida’s hurricane season is one of the largest causes of flooding in South Florida, but if you are a Florida resident, you surely know that it doesn’t have to be hurricane season for water to be rising in your streets.

As a peninsula, average thunderstorms can bring lots of rain and downpour leading to rising waters in local communities like Davie, Cooper City and Ft. Lauderdale.  Some other areas like Coral Springs and Boca Raton have better suited streets that handle the rising waters well.  But no matter where you live in “Sunny” South Florida, you’ve had your fair share of driving through and having your home surrounded by rising waters.

Here are some general tips about the do’s and don’ts when dealing with rising water situations wherever you are.

After the Flood:

  • Try to get out excess water in the area, whether it be on your floors or on your upholstery, try drying the area with a mop or with a towel to blot the wet spots or areas.
  • Turn on fans and the air conditioner (if they are unaffected by the water or moisture) to get the air flowing.
  • Gather your items, whether it be in your car or your home, get your items off the floor and to higher areas within home or vehicle.  If that isn’t possible, get them out to somewhere safe and dry.
  • If it is within your home, place something that is water resistant between the item and the floor.  Aluminum or wood works well in this situation, especially for furniture.

Do not do:

  • Don’t leave your belongings to soak in the rising water. Rising water can be contaminated or dangerous. Materials like leather or paper will definitely become damaged beyond repair if left alone in the moisture.
  • Books, papers, documents and anything cardboard will definitely rot if left soaking in water.
  • Do not use standard home appliances if wet and don’t try to use a regular vacuum cleaner to pick up anything. Leave this to the professionals.
  • Don’t turn on anything that could shake your environment. When flooding occurs, many aspects of your home may be structurally unsafe, so leave pieces of your home like your ceiling fan, OFF!
  • If you feel your home or vehicle is unsafe because of the rising water damage, do not stay there.

You've got the support, always here to help.

We've supported hundreds of families and businesses like yours before. You are not alone. Whether reactive or preventative, our team can jump into action to make sure things are a success.

Don't let it get worse before it gets better. 

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Don't Be Afraid of Dorian - Be READY for it.

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

When the Storm Rains Down, we’ve got you covered.

Dorian is the first named storm of the season that looks like it will impact Florida.  Although we don’t know what route it will take, it is always a great idea to be prepared for not only the before, but also for the after.

We’ve put some tips together to help you prepare for this year’s hurricane season.  They come in the form of videos and articles that really dive into what to do before, during and after the storm.  We’re also here as a resource for both knowledge and for services to help you recover after the disaster.  We hope Dorian doesn’t bring the harsh weather to us, but we’d rather you be a warrior in times of peace than a gardener in the times of war.

From Water Damage due to flooding after Dorian arrives, to the mold damage that may occur due to potential moisture soaking into your home, we will arrive faster to any disaster.  Fire damage is also an important consideration during these types of events because many things can cause fires.  Lighting strikes to down power lines, there is always potential for danger.  If your home is affected by a fire, we’ll be at your service to bring things back to normal the best that we can.  Dorian doesn’t scare us, and we want you to be prepared and ready, so it doesn’t scare you either!

The link below will take you to our website where you can watch several video’s that address key aspects of getting prepared including insurance review, how to put a hurricane kit together, an evacuation zones. We also provide articles that give you power in the form of knowledge to face this foe of a storm now formally known as Dorian.

Catch our latest storm preparedness videos here.

View our articles about storm preparedness and other mold, fire or water damage topics here.

You've got the support, always here to help.

We've supported hundreds of families and businesses like yours before. You are not alone. Whether reactive or preventative, our team can jump into action to make sure things are a success.

Don't let it get worse before it gets better.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

2019 Hurricane Prep Tips for Your Coral Ridge Home

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane season is stirring up a storm.  As we are already getting hit with rains all the way from Wilton Manors to even the Ft. Lauderdale area, 2019 hurricane preparation should be top priority for all Florida residents. If the weather leaves your home going "Ft. Lauderdale south" for a lack of a better pun, you shouldn't waste time in reaching out to SERVPRO of Plantation. We're always ready to rescue you during your hurricane troubles. 

Every year people's lives are affected by these major storms.  (Look back at 2018)

Even more so, here are some 2019 hurricane preparation tips.

2019 Hurricane preparation tips:

  • Fill your car's gas tank and any extra gas cans ahead of time.  If you live near water dense areas like Ft. Lauderdale Beach, things may go South very quickly and you may find yourself needing to quickly evacuate.  In which case,  you'd definitely need a full tank of gas.
  • Having a few camping lanterns will come in handy in the event of any power failures.  Not everywhere has underground power lines like the Weston area.
  • Fill large freezer bags with water and freeze them with your freezer turned to its coldest setting. If the power goes out, you'll have blocks of ice to preserve things in the fridge and coolers.
  • Before a storm hits be sure you've stocked up on clean drinking water or bottled water- one gallon per person per day for no less than three days.
  • Invest in a battery powered or hand crank radio to stay up-to-date on what's going on in your area.
  • Be sure to withdraw cash from your bank account before the storm as some banks can be closed for days until power is restored.
  • Unplug TVs, computers, and appliances before the storm to avoid damages to electronics.
  • If you can't stay with friends or family outside of evacuation zones, be aware of your nearest hurricane shelter, and overnight kennels for your furry friends.  Check your city's main website for details on shelter locations.  For example: Ft. Lauderdale
  • Consider boarding up your house and going out of town until officials in your area say it's safe to return.

Your hurricane preparation should be complete well before a storm hits. Hurricane preparation is the most important skill for a south Florida family.

The American Red Cross has a complete hurricane preparation checklist available hereSERVPRO of Plantation hopes you have a safe and damage-free storm season, but should disaster strike, SERVPRO of Plantation will arrive "faster to any disaster" and make it "like it never happened."

You've got the support, always here to help.

We've supported hundreds of families and businesses like yours before. You are not alone. Whether reactive or preventative, our team can jump into action to make sure things are a success.

Don't let it get worse before it gets better. 

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Office Water Damage in Plantation

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

Office Water Damage Tips

Whether it be in Plantation or Sunrise or even Miramar, office water damage affects many lives as well as many pockets.  South Florida has many businesses that can be affected by office water damage.  Mold is  also a potential follow up to the moisture caused by any water office water damage situation.  Retail stores, banks, schools, movie theaters can be be damaged in ways that can also affect the health of visitors.

Standard preventative measures to get things back to normal

You have to reduce the instances of damage as well as the amount of time it takes to remediate the damage when it does occur.

Education is the most important aspect because nothing gets done if nobody knows what to do.  You may find the situation getting worse if it is attended to in the wrong manner.  The basics of turning off the water supply within the building is important for everyone to know since the damage can continue if the source is still active.

If someone doesn't have the means to access or stop it, they should definitely know who to call. Having the right tools can be very important when these emergencies occur. In the case someone gets hurt, emergency contacts should be easily accessed or already distributed among the leaders.

Aftermath

Swift reactions are needed in a office water damage situation.  There is always a potential of damaging expensive items or equipment, or the potential of damaging critical aspects of the business that could lead to money loss later.

First someone specializing in fixing water lines or structural damage that  caused the spill of water in the first place should be contacted.

Immediately after, call SERVPRO of Plantation to support in assessing and remedying the office water damage.  We specialize in handling insurance as well, so you may find us useful when working with your insurance company.

At SERVPRO of Plantation we are the leaders of office water damage restoration.

You've got the support, always here to help.

We've supported hundreds of families and businesses like yours before. You are not alone. Whether reactive or preventative, our team can jump into action to make sure things are a success.

Don't let it get worse before it gets better. 

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

SERVPRO of Plantation: Why I Chose It

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO of Plantation?

SERVPRO of Plantation was the restoration company I had decided to purchase, but many people aren’t sure why I made this decision. The funny thing is, before I was an owner, I was a customer of SERVPRO! I had had water damage in my apartment and, like most, I wasn’t really sure who to call. In my mind, one restoration service must be as good as another, right?

Well I can tell you I was wrong. I decided to go with SERVPRO because I remembered them as industry leaders in restoration services. Their tagline “Like it never even happened.” had gotten stuck in my head somewhere along the line. I placed a call and within a day they were at my apartment giving me an assessment. Even though I found my self in a decidedly unpleasant situation (my apartment being flooded) I began to feel relief as soon as SERVPRO arrived on the scene. The speed of the response began to set me at ease

The Process

What happened next, I couldn’t believe. The entire experience was, for me, completely top-notch. The professionalism of the technicians, the superiority of their equipment and the overall quality and attention to detail of their work left me in awe. I was beyond satisfied, and after my apartment was restored I was left thinking.

My father worked in hospitality, and instilled in me from a young age the importance of good customer service. This core value of mine I saw reflected in all that SERVPRO had done for me. I was hooked.

From that point, I decided that I wanted to be a part of that outstanding experience for others, even though they may be in a hard situation. I made the move and became owner of SERVPRO of Plantation, and the rest, as they say, is History.  I'm glad to go by #TypoSERVPRO now!

Don't let it get worse before it gets better. 

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Contaminated Water: Three Tips for Oakland Park

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

Contaminated Water: Three tips

What you do right after a flood can have a major impact to your safety and health; the same goes for what you don't do.  When dealing with flood water damage, it's important to get the water out of the way, but you should be sure to pay attention to these tips when dealing with the flooding in the Oakland Park or Plantation Florida area.

1. Dangers of exposure to contaminated water

Water that has been still after a flood is many times considered black water or stage 3 water. It may contain dangerous pollutants that could harm your health if you come in contact with it. If it comes into contact with your skin or it accidentally gets in your system either by fumes, consuming or it entering a wound, it can have disastrous effects.  Keep your loved ones or your pets away from it.

When the time comes to get rid of the water and to resolve the water damage, be smart and call a professional like SERVPRO of Plantation.  If for some reason you choose to do it yourself despite the dangers or the fact that the issue may come back if not properly handled, make sure you at least use the correct safety equipment.  We highly advise against handling this kind of damage yourself. But if you must make sure you use heavy duty water proof equipment as well as a respirator and eye protection.

2. Be aware of, turn off and stay away from sources of electricity

ANY time there is a large flood or pooled water source, you must be aware that the water may be made even more dangerous by any possible electric wires nearby.  If you are working in a specific area within your home, it is highly advised to shut off all power sources to reduce the risk of getting shocked.  Even more so, doing this can help you reduce the amount of damage to your electric system within your home.

You should always reach out to a professional before putting your life at risk or your family's life at risk. Especially when handling a flood situation or a situation that may include short circuited electric systems or live wires.

3. Handle these problems immediately

Especially in the case of water damage, it is important for you to handle the situation as quickly as possible.  That is why it is highly important to call SERVPRO of Plantation because the more time that has passed, the more likely mold has begun to grow and to spread. Mold can begin to grow in a flooded home in 24 to 72 hours. 

In general it is important to remove yourself from the situation of dealing with contaminated water or water that may be exposed to open live power lines.  These situations may cause harm to your health or even danger to your life.

Don't let it get worse before it gets better. 

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Oakland Park Water Damage Disaster!

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

Ever find yourself walking into a mess like this?

If you've ever walked into a surprise Oakland Park water damage situation like this, you know first hand how stressful it can be. You begin to think about how to handle the mess yourself, and you start to dry everything up.  But, it is not until you're a few minutes in that you realize that you are in over your head.  Even then, beyond what you may be thinking about is the fact that even if you somehow get things in a seemingly dry state, they may not truly be dry - leading to the growth of mold  (maybe even under the surface where you cannot see.)

Sound like you?

Now that you're reading this, you're probably swelling with a bit of stress and anxiety because you realize that something like this recently happened and you may have mold growing somewhere you hadn't though to check.

Who do I call?  What do I do next?  Is it too late, and how far has the damage probably gotten? Listen, stop for a second and take a breath.  Everything will be OK.  Alright?

That is why SERVPRO exists.  So we can take on these stresses so that you don't have to. We see this all the time, and we have the tools, skills, knowledge and experience to get things done right.

If we come to save the day, you can find recreational things to do while you wait here.

SERVPRO of Plantation Is Here to Help!

We will work with you so that you can have peace of mind while we get things done the right way!   Your worst day is usually our daily work and you can give us a call if you have a disaster in the immediate moment, or you may schedule inspections on a routine basis or even just randomly so we can see if you have a worse problem on your hands or if there are minor improvements

Knowing that this is your personal space, we treat your Pompano Beach home, work place, your family and your employees with the utmost respect and consideration. It is important that we make things "like it never even happened."

You've got the support, always here to help.

We've supported hundreds of families and businesses like yours before. You are not alone at any stage of the process, whether reactive or preventative, our team can jump into action to make sure things are a success.

Don't let it get worse before it gets better.  Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Black Mold in your Sea Ranch Lakes or Davie home?

3/29/2019 (Permalink)

Black Mold Example

Black mold can be a tricky problem to handle - Learn the basics.

Your normal may not be so normal - is black mold affecting health?

Many mold types can cause allergic reactions and irritate your loved ones, especially Black Mold.  It's important that you reach out to a specialized black mold remediation company like SERVPRO of Plantation whenever you see any kind of mold.  Different types of mold can affect your home, even at the same time.  If you believe that you have a mold issue give a professional team like SERVPRO right away.  Black Mold grows and spreads very quickly, so every minute counts!

What We Need To Understand About Black Mold?

If you have any sort of water damage, mold can usually start to grow within the first 48 to 72 hours depending on the size of the leak.  Keep in mind these following facts about Black Mold:

  • Spores from mold are so tiny that you cannot see them.  Which makes their spread even more easy as they may travel through the home without you even knowing.  Travelling through moving air, they can pass through many openings in your home and even stick to surfaces like walls, clothing, pets etc.
  • Mold feeds off of moisture, so anywhere excess moisture is created or left or even trapped serves as a breeding ground for black mold.  Even worse is the fact that moisture isn't always immediately seen or felt.
  • Areas that may be affected by black mold have to be prepped properly so the spread doesn't continue or so that the problem doesn't come back or persist after treatment.  This is especially why it is important to reach out to a professional like SERVPRO who has the proper training and equipment to handle these areas and those situations.
  • Black mold can possibly produce strong odors and spores that may affect the health of those in contact with it.  On the contrary there are types of mold that don't have an immediately noticeable smell or health effect.  A specialist should be contacted so that they can truly test whatever microbial growth is in the area to see if it is mold and how to handle it.

Nobody will "know" what it is until it is tested.

If you are in the Dania Beach area, check out this website for events and attractions.

Don't let it get worse before it gets better.  Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Different Kinds of Water Damage in Dania Beach

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

Different Kinds of Water Damage Need Different Kinds of Support

Different kinds of water damage can vary based on the degree of contamination in the water.  In many Davie Florida and Sunrise Florida homes, you may see these different kinds of water depending on the environment near your home (especially near the Coral Springs Farms or just regular animal owners).  Check out what Plantation offers here.

Differentiated by the change and darkness of color, each type of water could cause a different type of property damage.  Each type of damage may also require a different intensity of restoration chemicals or equipment and may be damaging to health if exposed to.

Not many people know about the different kinds of water damage  

Many usually think of flood caused by a natural disaster or from a nearby water source. While it is usually the case that these different types of water damage can be caused by some nature event of some sort, there are many other ways they can occur.  For example:

  • House hold appliances may leak, including your fridge, freezer, washing machine, etc
  • overflowing sewage or toilets/urinals
  • Unattended water sources that overflow like showers, baths or sinks
  • Damaged pipes or drainage ports that cause even further issues around the facility
  • Compromised shelters allowing outside sources of water to come in
  • Natural events that create the destruction of property causing the water damage or water to come in

Different kinds of water can come from different sources, internal or external at times. 

But water is water right?? 

Well not quite.  We tend to consider water all the same, but there are definitely different kinds of water and ways to classify them.  Each classification has to be treated differently as well.

There are THREE different kinds of water:

  • Type 1 – Is the generally safe water.  As many consider “clean water” it is not contaminated
  • Type 2 – This could also be referred to as “grey Water”, meaning it contains some contamination and would not be sanitary enough for human consumption, this can be because of soap, fat, oil, dust, dirt etc.
  • Type 3 – “Black Water”, this is water that is entirely contaminated and usually has disease causing organisms, pathogens, and other dangerous materials.  In many cases, black water may contain fecal matter or worse.

Now that you know the different kinds of water

Now you know more about these different kinds of water, you can know how to interact with them or more specifically how NOT to deal with them.  Call the restoration professionals who have the proper training and certifications to handle these different types of water damage.  We can handle types of dangers so it can be “like it never even happened.”

If you are in the Dania Beach area, check out this website for events and attractions.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Commercial Disaster: Fire in Weston and Sawgrass

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Disaster Restoration is Serious Business

Bringing things back to normal after any commercial disaster is always a difficult task, especially a fire.  Even smaller fires cause large damage that can leave any home or business filled with lung clogging soot.  The smell itself will leave a permanent reminder of the disaster if not treated properly.  Thus, the importance of reaching out to a professional restoration team like SERVPRO of Plantation for your commercial disaster. 

Treat You with Care

We have the most experience and specialized training and equipment to handle your commercial disaster the right way.  Not only are we trained for the situation, but we truly take pride in supporting those in need in disasters just like yours. 

Your home or business as well as your family or team will be treated with the utmost respect and care as our goal is not only to help restore your place to the way it was before, but to also support in an effort to make it feel like the commercial disaster never happened in the first place.

SERVPRO Has Your Back

Being a specially certified SERVPRO Franchise, we have the backing and support to provide for you with the most advanced tools, technology and methods.  The most reliable commercial disaster relief and restoration team doesn’t just bring on anyone!  And you shouldn't just bring on anyone either.  Make the right choice and call the experts.

Hopefully you won’t ever need our services, but if the need does arise we're here for you!

If you are in the Dania Beach area, check out this website for events and attractions.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO Plantation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/

Odors in your Dania Beach Home? Call SERVPRO

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Odors caused by mold and damp staining painted wall surface around an internal home window.

Odors in Certain Parts of your Home?

While cleaning the house have you ever experienced certain smells or odors coming from inside the house, carpets, flooring, or closet? Ever consider that your health may be affected by that smell?  You may not even know who to call!

Don't stress, call SERVPRO! We are trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. Our company and team provides 24/7 days of week of emergencies, if you are very concerned about the odor or smell we will be out there as soon as possible.

We have the odor removing knowledge & experience.

SERVPRO has certified technicians who are knowledgeable and experienced on the proper removal for odors straight from the odor's source. There are different types of odors that can come from numerous of places inside or outside your home. SERVPRO provides industrial grade equipment to locate and remove said odors.

After identifying the source of a odor and looking at the conditions required for its removal,  the odor will be eliminate over the course of a strategically planned visit schedule.  In many cases, we try our very best to get things done as soon as possible.

Don't try to remove the odor yourself.  You may make it worse!

It's important that you do not try to get rid of odors in your home by yourself as many times it makes the problem worse or its cause (which could be harmful to your health) spread to other spots in your home..

If you are in the Dania Beach area, check out this website for events and attractions.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Commercial Buildings & Mold: How to prevent the spread

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Buildings & Mold are not what you want in the same sentence.

Commercial buildings being forced to shutdown due to toxic mold growing isn't something you want your name associated with.  Many times it causes workers to suffer from respiratory problems. As a result, business comes to a halt and the company executives face serious legal action.

It’s important to implement a process that will prevent mold growth in commercial buildings.

Mold counts are higher in humid conditions than dry conditions and some mold is always present, even indoors. Especially not following procedures when using equipment you THINK will help the situation.  Many times these tools can serve as both a laboratory for growing mold and a highway system for transporting mold spores throughout a building.  The good news is that interior mold can be controlled through regular commercial building maintenance and inspections combined with the proper design, installation, and maintenance of commercial HVAC systems.

What commercial building managers are concerned about is interior black mold, which can become an ugly nuisance, and cause serious illness in humans and structural damage to buildings.

Some workers are sensitive to mold in the workplace and have allergic reactions when exposed to mold spores. Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores can cause allergic reactions such as coughing, sneezing, nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, and skin rash. Workers who are extremely sensitive to mold or have asthma, are more prone to the building related illnesses mold can cause.

Controlling Indoor MoldMold is typically considered a problem when it is visible, but at that point a commercial building’s air quality has already been compromised. By understanding the conditions that cause mold to thrive and spread, you can prevent mold growth in commercial facilities.

The best way to prevent mold growth is to reduce moisture with a regular building maintenance and inspection process. Here are some strategies for controlling interior mold:

Inspect all areas of the building for moisture, mold, and water damage routinely. Mold is sneaky.Repair any leaks or water damage you discover as soon as possible.Clean HVAC system coils and drip pans regularly. Pans that are plugged and not draining properly cause moisture to accumulate, quickly becoming a breeding ground for mold.Make sure that all HVAC ducts and system components such as air handlers, blowers, and any enclosed chambers are free of any moisture.Perform proper housekeeping in all areas of the building keeping walls and floors dry.Check the location of HVAC air intakes. Air being pulled in from areas near standing water or dumpsters can cause an increase in fungal spores inside the building.If you have a mold problem already, cleaning up the surface will not solve the problem. You need to have someone specifically trained in the principals of commercial mold removal to get it all. Give the pros at SERVPRO a call!

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Preventing Fireworks Fires for the New Year 

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Preventing Fireworks Fires for the New Year 

Here are some general tips to prevent injury or fire damage during the New Year fireworks fun.

  • Fireworks most likely to cause fires are not large displays that go high in the air but the smaller items that go up less than ten feet.  Larger cake style displays go high enough in the air for any sparks to extinguish long before they could hit the ground but smaller items geared towards kids that spin and shoot sparks close to the ground need to be handled with caution.
  • The best place to stage your show is away from tall, dry grasses or trees on a level, cement surface.  If you have to light your display on grass or gravel we recommend using a piece of plywood to create a level surface.
  • Wet the ground in and around the area where you will be setting off your display and always have a fire extinguisher or hose and adequate water supply on hand.
  • NEVER take fireworks to national forests or park areas!  Even in wet years, fireworks are never legal or appropriate in these areas.
  • NEVER put spent fireworks or "duds" in a fire.  Soak spent fireworks with water and dispose of them only when completely cooled.
  • Don't attempt to pick up or relight "duds".  Wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak in a bucket of water before disposal. Buying from a reputable distributor will minimize your chance of purchasing "duds".
  • Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.  Have a designated sober shooter.  There is no substitute for good judgment.

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SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile 2018!

12/24/2018 (Permalink)

Is your business ready for disaster? We here at SERVPRO of Plantation have always emphasized how important it is to have disaster plans in place for your home or business, but did you know that we have an app that can make disaster mitigation easier for you and your business? Meet the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile! With your ERP in place, you have the disaster advantage of:

  • A free assessment of your facility.
  • A Profile Document with information that would be critical to quick response in an emergency.
  • A guide to prepare you and help you get back in your building faster after a disaster.
  • Establishes SERVPRO of Plantation as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
  • Identification of the line of command at your building/business to begin restoration work ASAP.
  • Provides facility details, identifies priority areas, and priority contacts for our team to use.

How to get a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile:

  • STEP 1: Visit SERVPRO.com/ready. Register for an account using your email address as your username and choose a password.
  • STEP 2: Choose SERVPRO of Plantation as your preferred SERVPRO Franchise Representative to contact in the event your home or business experiences water, fire, mold or other type of damage.
  • STEP 3: Begin creating ERPs for all of your properties.
  • STEP 4: Download the SERVPRO Ready Plan Application on your iPhone, tablet, Android or Blackberry device from the respective App Store.
  • STEP 5: Launch the Ready Plan App and sign in using the same username and password from STEP 1.

After that, go through and add information, play around a little and get to know the app before you really need it.

With your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile in place, our teams can arrive faster to your disaster. SERVPRO of Plantation can make it "Like it never even happened."

Wall Paper Mold: Hidden Dangers!

12/15/2018 (Permalink)

Wall Paper Mold is a big health concern. To get rid of the mold you must remove the wallpaper. First and foremost remove the wallpaper safely by wetting it with a wetting agent and water. But first wear a good cartridge-type respirator.

When removing mold behind wallpaper safely wet it first. Even if the wallpaper removes dry still wet it

A simple dust or particulate mask won't offer adequate protection. Also wear gloves and goggles, remember safety first. In a garden type sprayer add the wetting agent and water for easy application.

Using the sprayer to wet the wallpaper down will reduce the mold spores from becoming airborne. Even if the wallpaper removes dry still wet it first. Move slowly and deliberately so you don't stir up spores as you work.

Once the wallpaper is removed from the walls the next step is to wash the walls down with a water and bleach solution. This should remove the mold from the walls if it is just surface mold. If the walls are soft and spongy the mold may have penetrated deeper into the wall.

One way to tell if the walls are totally saturated with mold you can take a utility knife and cut a small square out of the wall and look at the back side of the square. If there is mold behind the wall then you should replace the walls. 

But the best option is going with the pros!

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Prevent Fire Damage 2018 New Years Resolution! Plantation & Ft. Lauderdale

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

New Years Resolution: Prevent Fire Damage

New Years' resolutions are a staple of many Americans' holiday seasons when decisions are made to fundamentally change the lives of those making them for the better. While we often struggle to maintain and meet up to our expectations, these resolutions can be very beneficial if we really followed them... Of course some more than others (Like to prevent fire damage).

Happens to Everyone...

Have you ever caught yourself almost causing a fire?  Leaving the stove running, or forgetting a pot of cooking food on the stove?  Maybe over microwaving something or accidentally forgetting to blow out a candle?  It happens to everyone, but for some, these small instances turn into major life changing fires..  

Let's make a new years resolution to prevent fire damage chances in all of those little moments, so we don't have experience one of those BIG moments!

Being Careful With Flame

Open flames of all sizes can directly lead to significant fire damage in your  home. Anything in your home that produces an open flame could represent an enormous fire hazard. In general, we recommend keeping the use of these devices to a minimum, but instead of giving up your habits entirely, consider making them more safe and well-contained. Never let candles and kitchen appliances run without your presence in the room. Little changes like these can make a big difference in the future.

Cleaning Up Around The Home

Keeping your home neat and clean not only makes it look better and more livable but also reduces your risk of fire damage. Many fires start because of excess dirt and clutter in a home, and can easily be averted with a reduction to these factors.


Perform Monthly Maintenance

Every month or two, inspect essential safety devices such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and any relevant escape routes to make sure they are ready and able to react to disaster. Just thirty minutes per year could avert a disaster that might otherwise cost thousands to clean up.

Learn how we handle these fixes once it happens by clicking here!

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Reducing the Spread of Mold -Aventura, Biscayne Park, Boca Raton

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

Reducing the Spread of Mold Anywhere!

If you notice that mold has already started to grow, the remediation specialists from SERVPRO Plantation North will need to fix not only the water damage but also the mold problem. When your home floods, the subsequent water damage can lead to black mold growth if not remedied fairly quickly.  Before they arrive for water and mold cleanup, however, there are three steps you need to take, reducing the spread of mold.

Stop Moisture Causing Source to Reduce the Mold Growth 

One thing your situation does not need is more moisture or water flow to the area.  You may not be able to undo the damage that has already occurred, but you can prevent further damage by cutting water off at the source. Unless you know specifically where the leak is coming from, you should just turn the water off for that whole section of your home. 

Stop All Air Flow, Reducing the Spread of Mold

The first instinct of many homeowners when they have a moisture problem is to open up all the windows and doors and get air flow going through the house.  When mold is actually growing in a particular area, the concentration of spores in the air is higher. You want to keep that mold concentration contained as much as possible.

 If you have a black mold problem, however, this increased air flow just spreads the problem. You may start with mold in one room but it may grow into the hallway and surrounding areas. Shut air intake vents and turn the system off to prevent an epidemic of mold growth through your entire home.

Call The Professionals - SERVPRO Plantation

Mold cleanup is generally a job for the professionals, but you can make their job easier by keeping the black mold from spreading into other areas of your home. By shutting off the air flow and the water supply, you can help keep the problem contained. 

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Flood Damage Vs Water Damage: Plantation

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

Flood Damage and Water Damage are different - FEMA 

The difference between a water damage and a flood damage is best distinguished by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) flood definition.

Simply put, the main difference between a flood claim and a water damage claim is where the water comes from. With flood damage, the water comes from a natural source and two or more properties are involved (if you reside in a generally residential versus rural area).

If you and your neighbors are all having water issues due to heavy rains and/or rising waters, then you are likely dealing with a flood damage. For water damage, you may have the water damage issue inside your home, but your neighbor may not.  Either source is still a problem of course.

Flood Damage

A flood is defined as a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres and two or more properties of normally dry land. Flood damage can only be caused by:

  • Overflow of inland or tidal waters
  • Unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source
  • Mudflow
  • Collapse of land along the shore of a lake or similar body of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels that result in a flood as defined above

If the water causing damage in your home is coming from any of these sources, you are probably dealing with flood damage.  Click here to see some tips to prevent water damage in the future.  Thanks for reading!

No matter what it is considered, call a professional restoration company like SERVPRO to cleanup!

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Health - Water Damage Effects - Miami

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage & Your Health

If you live in or near Miami or just South Florida in general, you know that many portions near the beach are below water level.  Even worse, these areas flood quite often and many different sources claim within the next 100 years a good portion of the area may be under water. When it comes to health - Water Damage can play a major factor.

But what effect does this have on your health?? Whether you have experienced water damage from flooding rains or from a burst pipe or leaky appliances, your health may be at risk if you do not deal with it immediately and correctly.

It will effect Health - Water Damage

Major water damage can cause foul odors, poor indoor air quality, and most importantly–mildew growth. Mold/mildew resulting from water damage can have significant health impacts, particularly on those with compromised immune systems or asthma.  These aspects are important to pay attention to for your health - Water Damage can play a major factor.

Mold can trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks in those who have asthma or other respiratory issues. Flu-like symptoms, fatigue, severe migraines, nosebleeds, dizziness, and more can all be attributed to excess mold exposure, but those who experience these conditions often believe they are merely sick or tired, completely unaware that mold is the cause of their ailments. If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, it is possible that mold is the cause, and extremely likely if these symptoms begin following flooding rains or a pipe burst in your home or business.  Check out our Mold Safety Tips by clicking here!

Thanks for reading!  We'll better the world one step at a time by being faster to any disaster!

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Choose SERVPRO: Restoration Team - Plantation

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

Choose SERVPRO Plantation: We Service Cities in all of South Florida

All the way from up north in Deerfield Beach to South Miami and cities like Davie, Lauderdale Lakes

Choose SERVPRO the right water cleanup and water restoration company. Though cleanup of a building inundated with water requires special equipment, trained staff and a complete understanding of the process. The company must know it's vital to remove damp rugs, paddings, the baseboards and other finishings to allow 

for proper air movement within the structure. This helps the drying process and helps to improve the air quality within the home or business that has been damaged by water.

No matter where in Florida you live or do business, having water in home or water in business can be a serious problem. One that costs thousands of dollars to fix. Check out our Hurricane Tips!

It's essential to get the insurance company involved as quickly as possible.

In addition to recommending water cleanup and water restoration companies, having them involved from the beginning makes it easier to get the needed work approved and the claim paid. You don't have to use the water mitigation company the insurance company recommends, but the company you choose must be experienced, licensed and insured and have the necessary equipment and expertise.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Handling a Fire Loss in Sunny South Florida: Pembroke Pines and Weston

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

Emergency services make it possible for a family to handle a fire loss and get the house back into working order in just a couple days instead of weeks or months depending on the damage.

Handling a fire loss things have to move as quickly as possible, and you need to have someone you can trust to handle the job.  Smoke damage, soot damage and air quality need to be checked and restored to normal, so the best thing that can be done is to have someone come inspect and get a plan going of the next immediate steps.

The preparation for something like this is much more robust with a focus on not leaving lingering problems that could make a family sick or unhealthy in the future. Locations are much easier to care for when a local company is on the scene, so reach out to SERVPRO Plantation as we offer services to handle a fire loss in many cities for example: Pembroke Pines, Hialeah, Deerfield Beach or even Dania Beach!

Handling a Fire Loss - leave it to the Pros!  Call SERVPRO

The work may be complex, and it must be scheduled for several days or weeks to ensure completion, but the specific type of work has complexities here and there that you're going to want the pro's to handle rather than handling it yourself.  The safety or staying in the building and the air quality will begin to improve when the building has been cleaned, and there will be regular tests until we are pleased with the results. To learn about some of our tools and methods, check out our other blog here!

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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2018 Halloween Vandalism and Your Business

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

Halloween- a time for dressing up in fun and scary costumes and eating way too much candy than is good for us. Unfortunately, Halloween is also the time of year for pranks and vandalism.

Here are a few tips to protect your business from falling victim to pranks, so that you won't have to call SERVPRO of Plantation for Halloween vandalism cleanup on November 1st,.

1) Lock it down

Make sure all doors, windows, and gates are locked up tightly when you leave for the night. Double check the day of that your alarm system is working and remember to set it before you leave.

2) Light it up

If your business is open late, keep the parking area well-lit so employee and customer cars are less of a target for egging or keying.

After hours, keep the outsides of the building well lit, including parking lots and dumpster areas. Also, be sure your outdoor security cameras are running.

3) Security

If you have a high-risk business, or have been targeted in the past, consider hiring overnight security, or beefing up existing security.

4) Halloween vandalism cleanup

Don't wait! Clean up vandalism as soon as you find it, and call professionals for help with difficult cleanup. Cleaning up quickly will deter vandals targeting your business in the future- they'll know you're not messing around.

5) Double check

Go over this list night-of to be sure you are protecting your business as much as possible this prank season. Halloween doesn't have to be a nightmare for you or your business. And should vandals strike, SERVPRO of Plantation will make it "Like it never even happened."

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Yacht and Boat Mold Air Effects 2018

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Plantation, we love boats and yachts.

But we don't just love watching them, we also love getting to work on them to make them as beautiful as can be. Many people don't realize that due to the extreme conditions under which boats and yachts operate, the air quality on board can become contaminated with hazardous mold or bacteria. In fact, the EPA estimates that indoor air pollution, such as that on board a boat or yacht, can reach up to 100 times as contaminated as the air pollution outside!

Symptoms of possible mold in air:

  • irritation of the eyes, skin, and nose while on board
  • agitation of pre-existing conditions such as allergies or asthma
  • sore throat
  • headaches and dizziness,
  • or nausea and fatigue associated with the presence of a musty odor

If you or any of your guests experience these symptoms while on board, give SERVPRO of Plantation a call so we can get to work remediating the problem. The long-term exposure to poor yacht air quality can result in severe health effects if left untreated.

Fortunately, SERVPRO of Plantation has the qualified professionals to improve your yacht air quality.

If you own or insure a boat or yacht (or have a friend or family member who does) and you suspect that the air quality of the vessel may be in need of an inspection, give the yacht air quality and mold remediation specialists at SERVPRO of Plantation a call.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Boat & Yacht Water Damage 2018: Hurricane Michael

10/12/2018 (Permalink)

It can happen to anyone.

As we've seen in the major damage of Hurricane Michael this October.

Whether you enjoy cruising the ocean blue, relaxing on sunny weekends, or taking a boating trip every summer, your yacht or boat is important to you, so you need to know how to take care of it and what to look out for that indicates yacht or boat water damage in need of professional attention.

If you suspect your yacht has been water damaged.

Don't turn anything on and don't try to fix or clean anything yourself as this can cause more harm than good. Call a professional like those at SERVPRO Plantation. Once you identify and possibly fix the cause of the water intrusion- which can include:

  • salt spray
  • slow leak
  • hurricane
  • etc.

A few signs of potential  water damage include:

  • minor blistering or bubbling of surfaces in the structure of the yacht
  • excessive mildew odor inside or on deck
  • salty buildup on surfaces inside

-a SERVPRO team can get started on cleaning any upholstery, decks, walls, and anything else infiltrated by water.

Ocean water and even brackish water, like that in the intercoastal, are particularly difficult to remediate due to the salt content and should be left to your SERVPRO team. The sooner you get a team to your yacht, the less salt damage will occur. Salt will corrode important seals, joints, and mechanical components if left unfixed for too long.

Call SERVPRO Plantation for all your yacht cleaning needs. Faster to any yacht water damage disaster SERVPRO Plantation will make it "Like it never even happened."

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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2018 Mold Remediation Process: How it's Done

10/12/2018 (Permalink)

If your are in need of mold remediation services call SERVPRO

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

How do we know where there's mold? How do we get rid of it? Who else do I need to hire? Well, we're going to share with you today the complete step-by-step mold remediation process.

Step 1: Determining Mold

A third party mold inspector will need to come in and determine that there is, in fact, a mold problem, and the extent of the mold problem. You can either find one yourself, or call us for someone we recommend. The reason we cannot do the mold inspection ourselves is because of a Florida state law that protects the homeowner from being swindled by seedier remediation companies. If another company tells you they can do it themselves, in the state of Florida, it is a crime.

Step 2: Containment

Once a mold inspection has been done, we start mold containment procedures to help prevent the spread of harmful mold and mold spores while cleanup is taking place. We set up what is known as "air scrubbers" to clean the air of possible contaminates in the quarantined area while the job is being done.

Step 3: Mold Cleanup and Total Mold Remediation Process

After containment is set up, the cleaning can begin. Depending on the amount of mold present, our team may need to do little more than antifungal/antimicrobial treatments; or, in some cases, gut out drywall and flooring in order to eliminate mold colonies altogether.

Although you will need to hire a general contractor to replace any of the structure that needed to be removed, "restorable" items, such as curtains and furniture, can be thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and deodorize by our specialists.

We'll work closely with property managers and/or insurance companies to ensure the mold situation is handled as quickly as possible with as little hassle as possible. While we here at SERVPRO Plantation hope you won't be in need of our services, should the need arise, we'll be there to make it "Like it never even happened."

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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General Air Duct Tips - SERVPRO 2018

10/4/2018 (Permalink)

Is air duct cleaning usually expensive?

Cost of the service varies and depends on multiple factors. Where you live, how dirty your system is, how easy it is for the contractor to access the ducts and what your ducts are made of.

How often should I get my air ducts cleaned?

We recommend air duct cleaning every three to five years. But if you have pets that shed a lot, recent water damage, construction going on in your home, residents with respiratory problems or humid environments, you may want to clean it more often.

How long does it usually take to get my air ducts cleaned?

The amount of time it takes to clean a residential HVAC system can vary depending on the complexity of the system. You will usually be given an estimate of how long it will take. 

Why should I have my air ducts cleaned?

Air duct cleaning helps to reduce energy costs in your home, reduce the potential for mold growth, improve indoor air quality, increase air circulation and flow,  and increase your home system performance.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Campfire Safety: Staying Safe this Season 2018

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

Let's Warm Up - But Not Too Warm!

Halloween candy is flooding into the stores, pumpkin spiced everything is approaching, and in South Florida, campfire season is upon us! In the colder months when people have fun around outdoor fires with friends and loved ones, campfire safety is the most important to ensure everyone has a good time and stays out of harm's way.

Simple campfire safety-

Teach both your children and pets that fire is dangerous and not to be played around. Always keep an eye on little ones and four-legged friends to be sure they don't get careless and end up hurt. If you feel you need a little extra protection you can

  • tie up or anchor pets at a safe distance
  • put a mesh lid on the pit
  • set up a baby gate around the fire 

If you plan on having a fire on your own property, consider investing in a good quality fire pit. Most pits come with a stand and a protective mesh top and are made out of non-toxic metal with no dyes or finishes. Having a self-contained pit (like the one pictured) will help assure the safety of everyone around, as well as protecting your property.

What NOT to burn-

As satisfying as it might be to throw your greasy burger plate on the fire and watch it burst and sizzle, resist the urge to put anything in the fire besides firewood. Styrofoam and plastic can create toxic smoke, and paper products cause large amounts of hot ash and smoke to billow around the pit area.

Some plants that grow here, like mango trees and black olive can be toxic if burned. Try staying away from burning plants found on your property, as the smoke of toxic plants not only burn the eyes and throat, but poison any food prepared over the fire. 

More than anything, campfires are meant to be a fun, warm gathering place for friends and family as the nights grow colder. We wish everyone a safe, fun season. 

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Fire Restoration using Ozone Generators

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

Disclaimer!

We at SERVPRO Plantation use machines known as ozone generators to produce the gas. Remember to not use any ozone generators on your own and call in only qualified professionals like our team at SERVPRO Plantation to deal with smoke odors.

(954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

How it Works:

The machine uses a high voltage corona mechanism to emulate the same conditions that would allow ozone to form in nature (such as lightning).  Regular oxygen from the air goes in, ozone comes out and can then be directed wherever it is needed.

Ozone is triatomic oxygen or enriched oxygen. Rather than having two atoms like in the oxygen we breathe, ozone has three bonded oxygen atoms. It is a strong oxidizing agent as well as a sterilizing agent most commonly used in fire restoration to eliminate smoke odors. 

Some examples of what can be deodorized with ozone are odors associated with:

  • cooking
  • decay
  • biohazards
  • fire
  • tobacco

However, ozone is less effective on inorganic odors (meaning odors not derived from living matter) such as:

  • chlorides
  • sulfates
  • nitrates
  • ammonia
  • phosphates

The reason for this is because the third oxygen molecule bonds with the organic odor compound and oxidizes it. The ozone then turns into regular oxygen and eliminates the smell by breaking it down at a vastly accelerated rate compared to standard oxygen. Oxygen molecules have trouble bonding with and oxidizing inorganic compounds, making it less effective on them.

There are very little drawbacks to using ozone generators in fire restoration jobs, if used correctly and as mandated by OSHA. Ozone is converted back to oxygen in a matter of minutes, so rooms or buildings only need to be evacuated for a short period of time.

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2018 Dos and Do Nots: Fire Damage

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage dos:

  1. For water and fire damage restoration, DO call SERVPRO of Plantation!
  2. Limit the amount of movement through the affected area to prevent the spread of soot and other particles which may cause additional damages. If the affected area is too large to avoid, evacuate while repairs are being done.
  3. Placing large clean rags, or old linens on rugs and upholstery in your home can also help prevent the spread of soot.
  4. Coating chrome fixtures like your faucets, or other parts of appliances with petroleum jelly.
  5. If there is water in your home and on your floors, protect your furniture by putting a barrier like foil or wooden blocks where the furniture touches the floor.

Fire damage do nots:

  1. Do not try to clean or shampoo any carpets, rugs, or upholstery. Trying to clean up fire damage yourself is extremely hazardous to your personal health. Always call a professional.
  2. Do not wash any walls or other painted surfaces yourself- improper cleaning can stain the walls.
  3. Do not clean any electrical equipment as this is dangerous, have a professional look at it, or replace it.
  4. Do not send clothes to a dry cleaner as improper cleaning can set smoke odors and stains.

After a fire takes place, there's a million things on your mind. Hopefully you had a plan in place to protect your loved ones and important property. To help protect your home and belongings from further damage, here are a few tips for what you should and should not do after fire damage takes place.

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Hygienic Houses Sell More Quickly

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

People Notice the Small Things

If you are looking to rent out or sell your house, ensuring its total cleanliness before putting it on the market is pivotal to finding a buyer faster. Old tenants can leave behind stains on walls, ground in dirt on the carpeting, and all other kinds of wear-and-tear in and around your property. Hygienic homes don't only look better, they sell faster, so here are a few steps you can take to get your property in tip-top shape for selling:

1) Air ducts

The first step to making your property smell and feel clean is to get the air ducts cleaned out. Clean ducts (and a fresh filter in the AC unit) can help to eliminate allergens in the air. The buildup of dust and other particles in ducts can also lead to dank or musty odors in your place, so clean before selling, and continue their upkeep regularly, can keep your building safer and more pleasant to be in.

2) Upholstery

If you are looking to rent or sell your house fully-furnished, have all the upholstery cleaned next. Years of use means years of food stains and other messes on your furniture. Make your chairs and sofas like new again with professional cleaning.

3) Floors

Getting your floors cleaned comes with a host of health benefits as well as making your place look good. Clean floors and carpets help people breathe easier, especially if they have known allergies or other conditions such as asthma.

4) General upkeep

Of course, the general upkeep and appearance of your building is to be kept in consideration. If you know you'll be showing someone a house, make sure the common areas like hallways and stairwells have been cleaned recently. First impressions are important!

Remember, for all your commercial cleaning needs give us a call!

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Post-Hurricane Mold: Aftermath of Florence

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

The 2018 hurricane season brought some surprises! 

After a storm, your top concern, after you and your family's safety and well being, is damage done to your property. Flooding, leaky roofs, and busted pipes all account for water damage that can turn into a mold problem quickly. Mold issues after a big storm are not uncommon, even if you weren't aware of any moisture in your home.

If you were unable to catch the water before the formation of post-hurricane mold, or are worried post-hurricane mold may have formed anyway, call us!

But lets go over some basics.

Loss of power

Air conditioning units:

Air conditioning keeps our homes cool and less humid than the outside, but when the power fails, so does your AC's ability to remove moisture from the air. The busiest part of hurricane season is also the hottest and most humid. In a matter of hours your entire home can become even hotter than outside temperatures. This warm, muggy climate is the perfect breeding ground for microbes like mold.

Refrigerators and freezers:

If you lost power during the storm, there are a few things to look out for that indicate a moisture issue. Refrigerators and freezers often fail during hurricanes. Although keeping the doors closed sometimes helps keep the contents cool, when the power is out for several days, the food will start to get warm and condensate, causing moisture to form (like water on a cold glass). This moisture will leak and puddle, and can even seep into nearby walls.

What now?

We will be with you every step of the way to have a third party check for mold while we work with insurance, and get the mold remediated. Even well after the storm, SERVPRO Ft. Lauderdale North has your back with recovery.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Using Chemicals on Mold?

10/2/2018 (Permalink)

DOES BLEACH KILL MOLD?

Lets get this straight first! 

As soon as you notice a presence of mold, call SERVPRO Plantation at (954) 280-8282 24/7 for immediate assessment. Our qualified technicians have the tools and training to identify the severity of the problem and can best inform you where to go from there. Remember, faster to your disaster, SERVPRO Plantation will make it "Like it never even happened."

Bleach

You clean your bathroom with it, disinfect household items with it, when diluted properly, you can even use it to clean things like toys or dental retainers. So why wouldn't you use it for something as harmful as mold? Well, when mold appears on walls and ceilings in your home it's likely already formed on the inside of those structures from water events, like a pipe leaking, or excessive humidity. Because of the chemical composition of bleach, it won't do an effective job of permeating into where the mold is living. The particles of the bleach are simply too large to penetrate most surfaces. So even if you "clean up" the mold and can no longer see it, it can still be lurking and pose a health threat to you and your family.

It's not uncommon for people to think dumping bleach on areas affected by mold will solve the problem without needing to call in professional help. This could not be farther from the truth. 

Dead mold is still dangerous

Even if bleaching completely kills all the mold in an area of your home, it can still be dangerous. While dead mold can no longer grow, these "non-viable" mold spores can still be hazardous to your health, particularly to people with allergies, asthma, or people that are immune-compromised such as the elderly.

So what can you do?

Be on the lookout for these signs of mold:

  • strong musty odors
  • evidence of moisture
  • excessive humidity
  • visible mold

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Hurricane Florence Floods: Caring for the Carolinas

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Florence - "Faster to Any Disaster"

Last month, the largest storm to make landfall in the Carolinas dumped over 2 feet of water on the Carolinas over the course of 3 days. Hurricane Florence rained more in one hour over the city than the area typically gets during the entire month of September. This record amount of rainfall left homes severely damaged or completely washed away.

After the rain stopped, everyone got to work picking up the pieces of their homes and businesses to get things back to normal. During this time, local SERVPRO teams were so over-encumbered they called in other SERVPRO teams from all over the country to aid in clean-up and restoration. SERVPRO Plantation was one of hundreds of teams who responded to the call.

We loaded up two trucks , an RV, and a few SERVPRO vans and caravaned through to the Carolinas. Over the weeks that followed, we helped many families get their lives back to normal by drying hardwood floors, cleaning carpets, and ripping out soggy drywall.

SERVPRO Plantation is proud to be part of the Storm Response Team Caring for the Carolinas. Faster to any size disaster, SERVPRO Plantation will make it "Like it never even happened."

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Mold Safety Tips: Be Aware of the Basics

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Safety Tips

If you find mold in your home you may ask yourself, "how dangerous is the mold and what precautions should I take?" There are many questions when it comes to mold, so take a moment and learn about mold safety and removal.

What is Mold?

Molds are fungi. There are over 100,000 different types of mold, and they come in a wide variety of colors including black, green, orange, and white.

Molds reproduce by producing spores. These spores are tiny and float through the air, often into your home. If spores land somewhere dark, moist, and warm, they might grow until they form a visible mold colony. Mold will not grow without moisture, so to prevent mold keep your home dry.

Mold Toxicity and Mold Safety

Most molds are not known to cause infection in healthy adults. However, scientists only have good information for a few number of molds, and people’s reactions to mold vary greatly. There are people who are more susceptible to illness from mold than others. Overall, mold’s effect on humans is still little understood, so all molds should be treated as if they are toxic. Mold-induced illness can affect the respiratory system, throat, eyes, and skin. Wearing protective gear (goggles, mask, gloves) is recommended whenever you clean mold.  In which case, many people may not have the appropriate gear or knowledge to handle it.  Therefore, it is recommended to reach out to a professional for handling mold remediation.

Our Recommendation

We strongly recommend hiring a professional mold removal service like SERVPRO for your mold clean-up needs.  A professional will have the right equipment, will be familiar with common types of mold and their dangers, and know how to handle the situation.  It is even better to use a professional's service because at times if you try to handle the mold yourself it can either come back anyway or spread to even more parts of the house.. 

SOURCE: Maids By Trade

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Tips to Prevent Water Damage - Pay Attention to Tip 3!

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Tips to Prevent Water Damage

 Most Homeowners insurance policies cover basic water damage claims up to the purchased limit.Preventing the water damage in the first place is a lot easier than going through the claims process! Use these tips to get the best outcome.
Source: Farmer's Insurance

Tip 1: Be careful where you plant

Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.  It's not everyday that you'd think about this as one of the tips to prevent water damage!

Tip 2: Clean out roof gutters

You know it’s on your to-do list anyway, so if you can, take a safe climb up to your roof next Sunday and check out your gutters. If you’re seeing lots of leaves, birds’ nests, sticks, and whatnot up there, your gutters may not be doing the job you hired them for. And on a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some serious water damage! So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. And if your gutters are too high, be safe and get a professional to check them.

Tip 3: Keep an eye on your water bill

This is one of the trickiest of tips on this list. With so many water pipes hidden behind walls and in the floors in your house, you might not know there’s a leak until the damage is done. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your monthly water bill. If you see it starting to creep up, or get one that’s uncommonly high, it’s a pretty good sign that you may have a leak somewhere.

Tip 4: Use a drain snake instead of unclogging chemicals

No matter how crazy clean you are, from your shower to your kitchen sink, clogs are going to happen. And chances are at some point in your life you’ve used one of those powerful chemical drain cleaners to get things moving again. But as convenient as they may be, most folks don’t realize those caustic chemicals are also eating away at their pipes (and they might not be too good for you either). If you rely on them a lot, you could be setting yourself up for leaks. That’s why owning a drain snake is a good solution to clear away clogs. This is one of the less expensive tips, as you can get them at your local hardware store for cheap. Use them to cut through most any clog you’ll have without damaging pipes or making your eyes red and teary.

Tip 5: Never pour grease down your sink

You’ve probably heard this before, but you should definitely avoid pouring grease down your kitchen sink. It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. It can still congeal and cling to your pipes, and could still cause some serious damage and blockage.

Some people use detergent to break up grease before pouring it down the drain…and that may help sometimes. But there’s no guarantee that it’ll keep the grease from sticking to your pipes, so why take the risk?

The safest thing to do is just to pour your grease in an empty can, and either let it sit or put it in the refrigerator. Once it hardens you can toss it in the trash and get rid of it. Done and done.

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2018 Hurricane Preparation Tips and Tricks

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

With the height of hurricane season looming, 2018 hurricane preparation should be top priority for all Florida residents. SERVPRO Plantation is here to help with these 2018 hurricane preparation tips.

2018 Hurricane preparation tips:

  • Fill your vehicle's gas tank and any gas cans ahead of time.
  • Having a few camping lanterns will come in handy in the event of any power failures.
  • Before a storm hits be sure you've stocked up on clean drinking water or bottled water- one gallon per person per day for no less than three days.
  • Invest in a battery powered or hand crank radio to stay up-to-date on what's going on in your area.
  • Fill large freezer bags with water and freeze them with your freezer turned to its coldest setting. If the power goes out, you'll have blocks of ice to preserve things in the fridge and coolers.
  • Be sure to withdraw cash from your bank account before the storm as some banks can be closed for days until power is restored.
  • Unplug TVs, computers, and appliances before the storm to avoid damages to electronics.
  • If you can't stay with friends or family outside of evacuation zones, be aware of your nearest hurricane shelter, and overnight kennels for your furry friends.
  • Consider boarding up your house and going out of town until officials in your area say it's safe to return.

Your hurricane preparation should be complete well before a storm hits. Hurricane preparation is the most important skill for a south Florida family. The American Red Cross has a complete hurricane preparation checklist available hereSERVPRO Plantation hopes you have a safe and damage-free storm season, but should disaster strike, SERVPRO Plantation will arrive "faster to your disaster" and make it "like it never happened."

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After the Storm: Important Tips - SERVPRO Plantation

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Be careful to take certain precautions after the storm has passed. Damage to your home can have a dramatic emotional impact, and it's best to have a plan before the storm strikes for how to reenter your home. Having a plan, and being aware of certain risks, will minimize the threat of harm to you or your family after the storm.  

Keep these after the storm tips in mind:

  • Make sure that you have current identification. You may have to pass through identification check points before being allowed access to your home/neighborhood.  
  • Avoid metal fences and other metal objects near downed lines. 
  • DO NOT use matches in a storm ravaged area until all gas lines are checked for leaks (keep flashlights and plenty of batteries at hand).   
  • Stay tuned to local news organizations, such as a radio or television station, for important announcements, bulletin, and instructions concerning the storm area.
  • Remember that, after the storm, you may not have immediate access to your home. Emergency rescue crews, power crews and other personnel may be attending to special needs. Roads could be blocked, power lines could be down and people may be trapped and in need of assistance.  
  • Use a camera or camcorder to record thoroughly any damage done to your home before any repairs are attempted.  
  • In certain areas, the flooding rains that accompany a storm can create pest problems. Be aware of potential pest problems in your area, such as mice, rats, insects or snakes that may have "come with the storm". 
  • Make sure that you have current identification. You may have to pass through identification check points before being allowed access to your home/neighborhood.  
  • Avoid driving as roads may be blocked after the storm.
  • Avoid sight-seeing or entering a storm ravaged area unnecessarily. You could be mistaken for a looter.  
  • Avoid downed power lines even if they look harmless.
  • Avoid turning the power on at your home if there is flooding present. Have a professional conduct a thorough inspection first.  
  • Consider having professionals/licensed contractors inspect your home for damage and help in repairs. This includes electricians, as well as professionals to inspect gas lines, remove uprooted trees and check plumbing.
  • Remember that downed or damaged trees can contain power lines that can be a hazard after the storm.  
  • Telephone lines will likely be busy in the area; use a phone only for emergencies.
  • Flooding brings with it the risk of waterborne bacterial contamination.
  • After the storm you should assume that the water is not safe and use properly stored water or boil your tap water.

These are just a few ideas to be thinking about before and after a severe storm hits. Remember to keep your radio tuned to a station issuing emergency bulletins and updates with the latest information.

We often only focus on the before when it comes to storms (you can see our tips for before the storm here) but knowing what to do after is just as important.

Source: Federal Alliance For Safe Homes 

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Types of Hurricane Damage : SERVPRO Plantation

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Types of Hurricane Damage to Expect During and After the Storm

There are a couple types of hurricane damage you can expect whenever you're anticipating one of these powerful storms.  Below we list a few of them.

Winds

The winds of a hurricane range from 74 mph (65 knots) in a minimal storm to greater than 155 mph (136 knots) in a catastrophic one.

Wind is responsible for much of the structural hurricane damage. High winds uproot trees and tear down power lines. The maximum winds from fast moving and powerful storms may remain high, even when the storm is well inland. Often this is actual wind speed combined with the speed of the storm.

Rainfall-Induced Flooding

The heavy rains associated with a tropical weather system are responsible not only for major flooding in areas where the storm initially strikes, but also can affect areas hundreds of miles from where the storm originally made landfall.

During landfall, it is not uncommon for 5-10 inches of rain to fall. If the storm is large and moving slowly, rainfall could be even more excessive. Intense flooding also can occur from tropical depressions and storms that do not reach hurricane strength.

Storm Surge

Storm surge is a rapid rise in the level of water that moves onto land as the eye of the storm makes landfall. Generally speaking, the stronger the hurricane, the greater the storm surge.

As a hurricane approaches the coast, its winds drive water toward the shore. Once the edge of the storm reaches the shallow waters of the continental shelf, water piles up. Winds of hurricane strength force the water onto shore.

At first, the water level climbs slowly, but as the eye of the storm approaches, water rises rapidly. Wave after wave hits the coast as tons of moving water hammer away at any structure on the coastline.

The surge is greater if a hurricane's track is perpendicular to the coastline, allowing the surge to build higher. The storm surge is also greater if the storm affects a bay or if it makes landfall at high tide. The greatest storm surge occurs to the right of where the eye makes landfall.

Tornadoes

Tropical cyclones also can trigger tornadoes. Each storm has a unique pattern of tornadoes whose frequency and occurrence is highly variable from one storm to the next.

Tornadoes spawned from hurricanes are more likely during an intense hurricane or one that is intensifying at or near landfall.

Source: The Weather Channel

For more storm preparation or recovery tips see our various other blog topics here.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 if you suffer from any hurricane damage or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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7 Facts About Hurricanes you NEED to know...

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Overhead Visual of major flooding within the community due to Hurricanes

7 Facts About Hurricanes you NEED to know...

by SERVPRO Plantation

What about hurricanes causing damage to your home? And what should you do to stay safe?

As Hurricane Lane is creeping towards Hawaii - we realize more and more that these natural disasters are real and can approach even when we least expect it.  Being prepared is the best plan.

SERVPRO Plantation provides restoration services that will help to save the day after even the worst of hurricanes.  If you haven't seen our previous posts about Hurricanes, click the links below.

Hurricane Prep Tips – Ft. Lauderdale and Plantation

Hurricane Facts and Figures

  1. Primary Causes of Hurricane Damage

The two main causes of hurricane damage are from high winds and flash flooding from the torrential rains.

These high speed winds can break windows and blow in garage doors. Damage in your neighborhood is inevitable because everything in nature can become a projectile in these powerful gusts.

On the other hand the torrential downpours can often cause flooding from overwhelmed gutters and downspouts, broken windows and damaged roofs, and saturated soil around and near your home.

  1. Categories?

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale was created in the 1970's and rates hurricanes based on their wind speed.

A larger number means a more intense hurricane: a Category 1 hurricane will inflict some damage to houses while a Category 5 will destroy a significant number of houses.

Click this link to see a visual interpretation of each category provided by the weather channel.

  1. Flooding

To best prepare for storms, check to see whether you live in a flood or storm surge zone. The federal government has several websites designed to help you figure out your risk of flood hazards. You can just search your address and the database will tell you whether you’re at low, moderate, or high risk of flooding.

  1. Storm Warnings vs Hurricane Warnings

Hurricane or tropical storm watches mean that weather conditions make it likely that there’s going to be a hazard. These are issued 48 hours before authorities think storm-force winds will reach the area.

warning, on the other hand, means that the tropical storm or hurricane is expected to hit your area, and come 36 hours before the anticipated onset.

Meanwhile, an extreme wind warning means that hurricane-force winds of more than 115 miles per hour are expected within the subsequent hour, so you should take shelter somewhere stable immediately.

  1. Safety is Preparedness

You and your family should have an emergency plan that includes where you will meet if you get separated during an emergency, how you’ll get in touch if your phones don’t work, where you’ll go if you need to evacuate, and how you’ll get there.

  1. What about our fluffy friends?

Can you evacuate with Po? Will he fit with you in the safe room? Furthermore, will you even be able to find Po? Keep pet food in your emergency kit, and don’t forget a can opener if you need one. When the storm hits, even if you’re staying home, put your pet in a carrier in case you have to evacuate last-minute. And microchip your cat or dog so that in the event you get separated, vets and rescue personnel will be able to track you down.

  1. Call SERVPRO Plantation

In the wake of a particularly bad hurricane, you may need to get in touch with emergency personnel, your electric company, your insurance agent, etc. Make sure you have numbers for hospitals, important utilities, your property insurer and your local restoration company.

A storm damage restoration company like SERVPRO Plantation will help you deal with hurricane damage quickly. With 24-hour emergency response and the tools and equipment to deal with the damage to trees, siding and flooding, they’re you’re one-stop-shop for hurricane damage.

Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/

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Hurricane Facts and Figures

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Illustration of how the Coriolis Force acts with the curvature and rotation of the Earth.

Hurricanes are a force of nature to be reckoned with. They are warm, wet cyclones- some with winds strong enough to snap branches off of trees and send debris flying. But there are some interesting facts about hurricanes even seasoned Floridians might not know. How many of these do you know?

Two hurricanes won't crash into each other to become a single storm, but will circle each other.

The Fujiwhara Effect, named after meteorologist Sakuhei Fujiwhara, describes a phenomenon where two cyclones will circle around each other as they continue on their path. If given enough time, the two storms will circle one another, gradually closing the gap, until they swirl into a single storm.

Hurricanes spin counterclockwise in the northern hemisphere, and clockwise in the southern.

The rotation of the Earth causes the spinning of ocean waters, winds, and yes, hurricanes. This force is known as the Coriolis Force or Coriolis Effect and has a huge influence over air and sea travel as well as storm formations.

Cyclones, typhoons, and hurricanes are different names for the same weather phenomenon.

The globally used meteorological term for the phenomenon is "tropical cyclone." In the Atlantic and Eastern Pacific Oceans, we call them hurricanes. In the Western Pacific, they are called typhoons. And in the Indian Ocean and Southern Pacific they are referred to as cyclones.

Hurricanes can’t form on the Equator because they need the Coriolis Effect to spin.

The equator is the dividing line between the northern and southern hemispheres. Because of its location, there's no Coriolis Effect to spin low pressure systems into hurricanes. No Coriolis Effect means no hurricanes.

Nearly double the amount of hurricanes happen in the northern hemisphere than in the southern.

Oceans in the southern hemisphere tend to have stronger winds than their northern counterparts. Because of these winds, it's less likely to create the conditions needed for hurricanes to form. Hurricanes require warm waters, storm conditions (meaning rain clouds), and gentle wind to steer and shape the tropical cyclone. With harsh winds, storms get broken up and are less likely to form south of the equator.

We hope you learned some interesting hurricane facts from this blog! Check back often this hurricane season for more facts, hurricane prep tips, and other readiness info.

Hurricane Prep Tips - Plantation

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

Image courtesy of Broward County.

Hurricane season is here in South Florida and for many Plantation residents, that means being prepared for mother nature's fury. Last year, most of South Florida including Plantation was affected by Hurricane Irma. Our crew was helping Houston recover from storm damage after Hurricane Harvey when Hurricane Irma rocked South Florida. Because it had been over ten years since the last major hurricane (Hurricane Wilma, 2005), many residents in Plantation were not prepared for the resulting storm damage.

SERVPRO of Plantation is here to help with these quick hurricane prep tips:

Know your area’s evacuation protocol; when to evacuate and where to go.

Plan to stay with family or friends outside of the hurricane evacuation zone, or make plans in a hotel. While hurricane shelters are an option, not all of them are equipped to shelter people with special care requirements, or pets.

Stock up on supplies ahead of time before stores are cleared out.

When a storm is named, stores are flooded with people trying to stock up last minute. Get a few supplies every time you go grocery shopping before a storm is on the way. This not only ensures you get everything you need, but also takes away the financial strain of having to pay for it all at once.

Review your policy coverage and make any changes as soon as possible.

Most insurance companies won't let you make changes to your policy thirty days before or thirty days after a storm hits. Review your coverage at the beginning of storm season and make any changes you may need this year.

Back up important files and documents digitally, and/or in a safe location.

Water damage from hurricanes and other kinds of storm damage, like electrical or fire damage, are a huge threat to your files and other critical documents. Invest in waterproof storage for paper documents, or digitize what you can. Uploading digital files to the cloud makes it so that even if your computer fails, you still have access to those important documents.

Fix any issues that could worsen during a storm, like a leaky roof.

Last hurricane season, most of our calls at SERVPRO of Plantation were for water intrusion. Leaky roofs and windows were a huge contributor to this, and were worsened by the storm. It's also a good idea to give your property a check-up for problems you don't know are there. If you are unaware of water intrusion from a storm, it could lead to a potentially hazardous mold problem after the fact.

We here at SERVPRO of Plantation want you to stay safe this hurricane season, so be prepared. And while we hope you'll never need to call us for an emergency, if you ever need us, we'll be ready.

Antimicrobial Duct Cleaning Treatment

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

The air you breathe-- is it important to you? Of course it is! Which is why SERVPRO of Plantation offer not just your ordinary duct cleaning service, but an Antimicrobial HVAC & Duct Treatment. So what exactly does that mean? Take a look:

Standard Duct Cleaning-

Our team of qualified professionals start the treatment process with a standard duct cleaning. This includes a thorough brushing and vacuuming of your vents to remove dust, cobwebs and other particulates.

In-Place Evaporation Coil Cleaning & Blower Wheel Cleaning-

Once your vents and ducts are cleaned out, SERVPRO of Plantation's team will clean both your property's evaporation coils and blower wheels. This is an important step in your HVAC system's regular maintenance.

Antimicrobial Deodorization-

The final and most important step is the antimicrobial deodorization. This step helps to not only limit microbial growth such as mold in your air vents, but also reduces and helps eliminate odors associated with:

  • smoke and fire damage
  • cigar or cigarette smoke
  • mold and mildew
  • biohazards and decomposition
  • crime scenes/trauma scenes or vandalism

SERVPRO of Plantation's commercial-grade antimicrobial fog is pushed through your vent system to reduce the presence of bacteria and other microbes. This fog is powerful enough to help eliminate any odor, while still being safe enough to be used around pets and people.

Remember for all your commercial or residential fire, water, cleanup, and restoration needs SERVPRO of Plantation are always here to help!

Document Drying with SERVPRO of Plantation

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

Your personal documents are in good hands with our HIPAA certified document specialists.

Our team here at SERVPRO of Plantation understands the importance of your personal records and other documents. Whether it's personal financial records or medical records from a doctor's office, whenever documents are damaged, you can trust SERVPRO of Plantation to handle your document drying for you.

When we come across water damaged documents at a fire or water loss, our SERVPRO of Plantation team's top priority is getting them shipped to our state-of-the-art HIPAA-certified protected document drying facility. This means your files and papers will be immediately frozen, documented, and express-shipped to a secure location. After it arrives, it goes into a low-pressure vaporization chamber that takes the water straight from a solid ice state to a vapor without a harmful liquid state. While your documents can never be the same after water damage, we will do our best to restore them to a usable state. Take a look at our document drying and restoration process:

Step 1) Document Inventory

We barcode every box using the iCat system, allowing us to know the location of any box in our state-of-the-art facility at any time. All Documents are inventoried at the location of the loss prior to packaging and video monitored 24/7 once they arrive- so you know your records are safe.

Step 2) Document Drying

This process involves drying materials frozen by SERVPRO of Plantation using various vacuums and pressurization to achieve sublimation (meaning the ice turns to vapor without getting your documents wet again).

Step 3) Document Decontamination

Gamma Irradiation is a process that is used for cleaning/disinfecting and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods. We use this process to kill any bacteria or other microbes without further damaging important documents.

In a CAT 3 situation (Sewage or Flood water) documents are not only deteriorating but are also infected with all types of bacteria. In most storm situations, we are dealing with CAT 3 water, therefore most of the affected documents will be contaminated; if this is the case than de-contamination is always a must.

Step 4) Document Cleaning

We will go through each box page by page to wipe down and remove dirt, soot, or other contaminants.
We have 3 levels of cleaning based on the type of soiling, and how heavy it is.

Step 5) Document Deodorizing

Many times documents that have been affected will hold residual smells of contaminants, or mildew, and will be deodorized before being returned.

Remember, when it comes to document drying Plantation is the way to go! SERVPRO of Plantation's certified team is available 24/7/365 for your emergency water damage needs.

Is Vent Cleaning Necessary for YOUR Dryer?

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial dryer vents should be cleaned at least once every three months.

It's a new year, and time to get your dryer vents cleaned out! SERVPRO of Plantation are ready to serve your New Year's cleaning needs, including commercial dryer vent cleaning. Dryer vent cleaning is a vital chore that is often overlooked by building and home owners, and property managers. Everyone knows to get carpets and HVAC systems cleaned regularly, but is vent cleaning necessary for your dryer?

Is vent cleaning necessary? Of course it is! Here's why:

  1. If left unchecked, dryer vents can pose a huge fire hazard in your home or building! Dryer fires are one of the top ten causes of house fires in the US resulting in 2,900 yearly reported fires on average. Failure to clean the dryer regularly is the leading cause of these fires.
  2. Lint trapped in dryers can also hinder the dryer's ability to do its job. Trapped lint blocks the airflow, and if left unchecked for too long, can cause the machine to not work at all anymore! Regular cleanings can save you money on repair bills.
  3. If your dryer vents are not properly maintained, it can cause a musty odor to form in your laundry room.

So how often SHOULD dryer vents be cleaned?

We recommend yearly dryer vent cleaning for residential dryers (such as those in homes). For commercial dryers (like those in salons or spas, or apartments and condo buildings) vent cleaning should be done at least four to six times a year. Start the new year off right! Contact SERVPRO of Plantation today to schedule your professional vent cleaning.

New Year's Safety 2018

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

Countdown to the new year! And with that, drinking, partying, and celebrating. We all enjoy bonfires, sparklers, and fireworks to start off the new year with a bang! Fire and fireworks can be fun, but they can also be dangerous if used carelessly. in fact, fireworks alone were responsible for some 11,000 injuries in 2016 alone. So, let one of your resolutions this year be New Year's safety with these firework safety tips.

New Year's Safety: before lighting fireworks:

  • Make sure there are no overhead obstructions such as trees.
  • Stay away from dry grass or other flammable materials.
  • Know the law in your area for fireworks.
  • Never allow fire from a match, cigar/cigarette, or other fireworks to get anywhere near where you are storing the rest of the fireworks.
  • Keep a bucket of water or hose withing reach.

New Year's Safety: while lighting fireworks:

  • Wear safety glasses, and make sure young children have ear protection when lighting larger fireworks.
  • Only give age-appropriate fireworks to children (such as sparklers) and only under direct supervision.
  • Keep pets safely indoors. Fireworks tend to spook animals and they can get hurt!
  • Never try to light damaged fireworks- wet them down and throw them out.
  • Never let someone under the influence light fireworks! 

New Year's Safety: after lighting fireworks:

  • After the fireworks burn out, wet them down as you go. Wet them down again before throwing out.
  • Any "duds" should be thoroughly wet when they don't go off.
  • Pick up debris from any sparklers, bottle rockets, etc.
  • Store any unused fireworks in a cool, dry place away from all potential fire starters or fire hazards.

For more information on firework safety, click here. And for all of your fire and water damage needs, call SERVPRO of Plantation for 24/7 emergency service every day of the year.

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

For faster 24/7 emergency service, sign up today!

Is your business ready for disaster? We here at SERVPRO of Plantation have always emphasized how important it is to have disaster plans in place for your home or business, but did you know that we have an app that can make disaster mitigation easier for you and your business? Meet the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile! With your ERP in place, you have the disaster advantage of:

  • A free assessment of your facility.
  • A Profile Document with information that would be critical to quick response in an emergency.
  • A guide to prepare you and help you get back in your building faster after a disaster.
  • Establishes SERVPRO of Plantation as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
  • Identification of the line of command at your building/business to begin restoration work ASAP.
  • Provides facility details, identifies priority areas, and priority contacts for our team to use.

How to get a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile:

  • STEP 1: Visit SERVPRO.com/ready. Register for an account using your email address as your username and choose a password.
  • STEP 2: Choose SERVPRO of Plantation as your preferred SERVPRO Franchise Representative to contact in the event your home or business experiences water, fire, mold or other type of damage.
  • STEP 3: Begin creating ERPs for all of your properties.
  • STEP 4: Download the SERVPRO Ready Plan Application on your iPhone, tablet, Android or Blackberry device from the respective App Store.
  • STEP 5: Launch the Ready Plan App and sign in using the same username and password from STEP 1.

After that, go through and add information, play around a little and get to know the app before you really need it.

With your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile in place, our teams can arrive faster to your disaster. SERVPRO of Plantation can make it "Like it never even happened."

5 Mold Myths Debunked with Mold Fact

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

With mold, what you can't see can be very dangerous.

There are a lot of misconceptions and misunderstandings about mold in Plantation. Today, SERVPRO of Plantation are going to debunk the old mold myth with some mold fact!

Mold Myth:

I can just get rid of mold with bleach.

Mold Fact:

Not true! Although some types of mold can be killed with bleach alone, not all of them can. And what's worse? When a structure has visible mold, there is often more mold where you can't see- and where you can't get to it with household cleaners.

Mold Myth:

Painting over visible mold will take care of the issue.

Mold Fact:

Wrong! Even if you use an antimicrobial paint, mold can still grow and cause the new paint to peel. Get rid of the mold before painting.

Mold Myth:

The only safe level of mold is no mold at all.

Mold Fact:

Nope, wrong again. While high levels of mold in the air can be hazardous to one's health, it's impossible for a space to be completely free of mold. Very low levels of mold are okay.

Mold Myth:

If I kill the mold with fungicides, it's completely safe.

Mold Fact:

Not quite. Killing mold is a good start to prevent it from spreading, but even dead mold can be potentially harmful. The only way to be sure mold isn't a threat to you is to call in a professional to have it properly removed.

Mold Myth:

I'm not immune-compromised, so I can live with mold.

Mold Fact:

No way! Even though people that are immune-compromised such as the elderly are more vulnerable to the hazards of mold, it can effect anyone. If there's mold in your home, contact SERVPRO Plantation right away.

When it comes to mold, it's important to know the facts. SERVPRO of Plantation is here to help and are always ready to make any mold problem "Like it never even happened."

Killing VS Removing Mold: Proper Mold Remediation

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

Mold spores are microscopic. Visible mold is actually a colony of hundreds of tiny spores.

So you may be thinking "I have mold, why don't I just spray it with chemicals like bleach or fungicides? That'll take care of it, right?" The answer: "No way!" There's a big difference in killing VS removing mold- and it could impact your health!

Working in South Florida, SERVPRO of Plantation has seen a lot of mold. In most places, and especially in the sunshine state, no building will ever have zero traces of mold in the air. But when mold occurs in high amounts, that's when it poses a hazard to you and your family or employees' health.

Killing VS Removing Mold- Why can't I kill it?

First of all, if you have visible mold in your home or business, it's likely already inside the walls of the structure and other hard to get to places. If you can manage to get something to where the mold is to kill it, that only stops it from growing. The health risks from airborne particles are still present and cannot be removed without our professional equipment.

So how do I get rid of it?

Call  your friendly neighborhood SERVPRO, of course!

When you call SERVPRO of Plantation for a mold problem, our trained professionals will not just kill the mold, remove the mold to the IICRC standards.

Once all the visible mold is removed, everything is wiped down with a powerful, but pet and child safe antimicrobial to stop the spread of mold we can't see. On top of all that, we also set up containment and air scrubbers to clean the air and stop the spread of mold to other areas of the structure.

When we're all done we even have a third party mold testing specialist come in to check and make sure the mold levels are safe and up to code.

SERVPRO of Plantation is looking out for you. Faster to any size disaster, we'll make it "Like it never even happened."

Water Class: What Does It Mean?

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO 24/7 for emergency service 365 days of the year.

When it comes to water damage restoration, part of SERVPRO of Plantation's assessment process includes categorizing the water loss into four standardized classes. Knowing the water class makes it easier to treat and mitigate a water loss.

Water Class 1

The IICRC defines class 1 water as:

"The lowest and easiest to deal with, this has a slow evaporation rate. Only part of a room or area was affected, there is little or no wet carpet, and the moisture has only affected materials with a low permeance rate, such as plywood or concrete."

What this means is that the water loss is minimal and has not been sitting for long enough to seep into dense or high permeance materials.

Water Class 2

Class 2 water is a little more difficult. IICRC defines it as the following:

"With a fast evaporation rate, this level affects an entire room, carpeting, or cushioning, the wetness has wicked up the walls at least 12, and there is moisture remaining in structural materials."

This means that the water damage had affected an entire area of a building such as a hallway.

Water Class 3

One of the more difficult water loss situations to mitigate is a class 3.

"This class has the fastest evaporation rate, and ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet and sub-floors are all saturated. The liquid may have come from overhead."

This means an entire room has been affected by water damage.

Water Class 4

Class four water is the hardest to treat due to it usually being trapped water.

"This class is labeled as specialty drying situations, which means there has been enough liquid and time to saturate materials with very low permeance, such as hardwood, brick, or stone."

For more info on water damage, visit the IICRC here. And for faster service to any size disaster, call SERVPRO of Plantation for 24/7 emergency service and make it "Like it never even happened."

Holiday Fire Safety Tips 2017

12/5/2017 (Permalink)

Make sure your decorations are flame-retardant this holiday season.

During this time of year, we cannot stress enough how important fire safety is. Almost every wintertime holiday celebration involves candles, bonfires, or other potential fire hazards. In 2016 alone, 3,390 civilians died in fire-related incidents- the majority of which occur around the holidays. Stay safe this holiday season by following these holiday fire safety tips:

  • Keep decorations away from space-heaters, stoves, and other heat sources in your home.
  • If you have a tree, make sure it has enough water every day to reduce the risk of it catching.
  • Check all string light decorations before you put them up, and then check again every day to be sure no pets or pests have chewed through the wires.
  • Don't overload an outlet by trying to have too many things plugged in and running at once.
  • Never use a turkey fryer, meat smoker, or grill (gas or charcoal) in or near a structure such as your garage, shed, or workshop.

Of course, every home should have working smoke alarms in every room, as well as a fire extinguisher in the kitchen or garage. All adults in the home should learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher, and what types of fires they can be used on. For more information on holiday fire safety, visit our friends at the American Red Cross here.

We here at SERVPRO of Plantation hope you won't be in need of our emergency services over the holidays, but if you do, we are ready 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help with your emergency water and fire cleanup needs.

SERVPRO of Plantation is NADCA Certified!

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Plantation for all your commercial HVAC cleaning needs!

Your friends at SERVPRO of Plantation are proud to announce our official HVAC cleaning certification with the National Air Duct Cleaners Association!

What does it mean to have a NADCA certification?

That means that members of our team have gone through the regulated training process and passed their exams to earn the national certifications for HVAC system and duct cleaning.

So what does our NADCA certification mean for YOU?

This means you can rest assured that your HVAC systems are cleaned up to ACR and NADCA standards to meet their cleanliness requirements as well as being aligned to their code of ethics. For more info on the benefits of choosing a NADCA certified HVAC and duct cleaner, visit NADCA's website. And for all of your NADCA certified HVAC cleaning needs, call SERVPRO of Plantation.

Water Damage? Here's What You Need To Do

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage? Better call SERVPRO!

So you found some water damage in your home or business and don't know what to do next. SERVPRO of Plantation is here to help!

Step one: Identify and fix the source of the water

Has it been raining a lot lately and flooded your kitchen? Did the storefront next door have a pipe burst? Identify the cause of the water loss, and do your best to remedy the issue. If water is still coming in to the area, there's little our teams can do until the problem is fixed- even if it just means shutting off the water main.

Step two: Call SERVPRO of course!

Don't forget to call your friendly neighborhood SERVPRO! We have an emergency response team available 24/7, any day of the year. If you suffer from water damage, don't wait to call us. Letting water sit can breed hazardous mold and other harmful germs. In fact, mold can form in as little as three days! If you are unsure how long the water has been sitting, you may want to have a third-party mold test done. The point of this test is to see whether or not mold is present so our professional technicians can treat the issue accordingly.

Step three: You can help

If you don't want to wait for our team to arrive, you can start the cleanup by mopping up water and setting out fans in the area affected by the water loss to start the drying process. We'll take over with our professional equipment when we get there.

No one likes being in a water loss situation, but it doesn't need to be a nightmare. SERVPRO of Plantation has the best crew of experienced and certified professional technicians available to make your water loss situation "Like it never even happened."

Your Fire Safety Plan and You

11/30/2017 (Permalink)

Know your building's fire escape routes!

Home fires have been in a steady decline for the last 30 years, but they still account for over 2,000 deaths and 10,000 injuries every year. Unfortunately, some disasters you can't predict, but there are a few steps you can take to ensure your safety in the event of a fire in your home. The most important step you can take is having a fire safety plan. Here are some key tips to keep in mind.

Before a fire:

  • Ensure your home has a smoke alarm in every room, and test them every month to make sure they are working. If they don't work, change the batteries, or upgrade.
  • Draw out a floor plan and map out at least two possible escape routes from each room. Take into consideration the needs of small children, pets, or people in your home with mobility issues while making an escape plan. Go through your plan with everyone in your home twice a year to make sure it'll work (windows open, etc.).
  • If you live in a condo or apartment, ask your landlord what the best course of action is in the event of a fire.

During a fire:

  • Touch the body of a door (do not touch the doorknob!) before opening to check for heat. If the door is hot to the touch, do not open it and find another way out.
  • As you move through doors, close them behind you to hinder the spread of the fire.
  • In the presence of smoke, stay low to the ground because smoke rises.
  • A wet towel or blanket put over your head and face can help prevent injury from flames or smoke inhalation.

After a fire:

  • Once you have made it safely away from the fire, call for emergency help.
  • Do a headcount of everyone that made it out. If someone is missing do not go back for them, tell the fire department so they can rescue them. They are prepared to battle a blaze- you aren't.
  • After a fire, if the structure of the building is still in tact, call SERVPRO of Plantation 24/7 for emergency service 365 days a year.

For more information on building a fire safety plan, visit the National Fire Protection Association. We here at SERVPRO of Plantation hope you'll never be in a fire situation, but if you are, you won't regret having a solid plan in place. Our teams are always ready to help and make it "Like it never even happened."

2017 Hurricane Season

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

The 2017 Hurricane Season was one of the busiest on record!

Hurricane Season, the time of year most likely to produce devastating storms, is finally over for this year. The 2017 Hurricane Season ran from June 1 until November 30 and yielded a whopping 18 total storms, the most powerful of which impacted the South Florida and Caribbean areas. Lets take a took at the stats for this seasons most powerful storms.

Jose-

Duration of storm: September 5 - September 26

Strength at landfall: N/A

Total deaths: 1

Cost of damage: Minimal

Ophelia-

Duration of storm: October 9 - October 16

Strength at landfall: Category 3

Total deaths: 54

Cost of damage: $71 million

Irma-

Duration of storm: August 30 - September 12

Strength at landfall: Category 5

Total deaths: 134

Cost of Damage: $66.77 billion

Harvey-

Duration of storm: August 17 - September 1

Strength at landfall: Category 4

Total deaths: 91

Cost of damage: $198.63 billion (costliest on record)

Maria-

Duration of storm: September 16 - September 30

Strength at landfall: Category 5

Total deaths: 103

Cost of damage: $103.45 billion

This year has been one of the most intense storm seasons in recorded history, but as always, we pulled together and weathered the storm. While there are still some places here in the US and the Caribbean islands trying to recover and rebuild, SERVPRO of Plantation has your back.

Halloween Vandalism and Your Business

10/27/2017 (Permalink)

Halloween doesn't have to be scary! Make sure your business is prepared.

Halloween- a time for dressing up in fun and scary costumes, and eating way too much candy than is good for us. Unfortunately, Halloween is also the time of year for pranks and vandalism. So that you won't have to call SERVPRO of Plantation for Halloween vandalism cleanup on November 1st, here are a few tips to protect your business from falling victim to pranks gone wrong.

1) Lock it down

Make sure all doors, windows, and gates are locked up tightly when you leave for the night. Double check the day of that your alarm system is working, and remember to set it before you leave.

2) Light it up

If your business is open late, keep the parking area well lit so employee and customer cars are less of a target for egging or keying.

After hours, keep the outsides of the building well lit, including parking lots and dumpster areas. Also be sure your outdoor security cameras running.

3) Security

If you have a high-risk business, or have been targeted in the past, consider highering overnight security, or beefing up existing security.

4) Halloween vandalism cleanup

Don't wait! Clean up vandalism as soon as you find it, and call professionals for help with difficult cleanup. Cleaning up quickly will deter vandals targeting your business in the future- they'll know you're not messing around.

5) Double check

Go over this list night-of to be sure you are protecting your business as much as possible this prank season. Halloween doesn't have to be a nightmare for you or your business. And should vandals strike, SERVPRO of Plantation will make it "Like it never even happened."

Your Yacht's Air Quality and What It Means To You

10/21/2017 (Permalink)

On a yacht, air quality is often overlooked.

Here at SERVPRO of Plantation, we love boats and yachts.

But we don't just love watching them, we also love getting to work on them to make them as beautiful as can be. Many people don't realize that due to the extreme conditions under which boats and yachts operate, the air quality on board can become contaminated with hazardous mold or bacteria. In fact, the EPA estimates that indoor air pollution, such as that on board a boat or yacht, can reach up to 100 times as contaminated as the air pollution outside!

Symptoms of poor yacht air quality can include:

  • irritation of the eyes, skin, and nose while on board
  • agitation of pre-existing conditions such as allergies or asthma
  • sore throat
  • headaches and dizziness,
  • or nausea and fatigue associated with the presence of a musty odor

If you or any of your guests experience these symptoms while on board, give SERVPRO of Plantation a call so we can get to work remediating the problem. The long term exposure to poor yacht air quality can result in severe health effects if left untreated.

Fortunately, SERVPRO of Plantation has the qualified professionals to improve your yacht air quality.

If you own or insure a boat or yacht (or have a friend or family member who does) and you suspect that the air quality of the vessel may be in need of an inspection, give theyacht air quality and mold remediation specialists at SERVPRO of Plantation a call.

Mold in Rented Properties: Who's at Fault?

10/13/2017 (Permalink)

This blog post is no substitute for actual legal advice. Call a lawyer if you need one.

So you found mold in a rented unit. Whether you're the landlord/landlady, or the tenant, this isn't good news. Thankfully, you know to call SERVPRO of Plantation to handle the remediation process. But who is responsible for paying for the cost of services and damages for mold in rented properties?

Although there is no federal or Florida state law that dictates who is responsible for the cost of remediation of mold in rented properties, there are certain steps that can be taken by the renter, or the property manager (or landlord/landlady) if they believe the other party is at fault.

If the landlord/landlady or property manager negligently created a mold problem, or knowingly allowed one to form, a court may find them at fault and responsible for payment for remediation services and other subsequent damages. If the landlord/landlady or property manager are in direct violation of health and safety codes as a result of their actions or negligence, the tenant should gather as much evidence as they can such as photos of the issue, proof of doctor's visits from mold-associated illness, and so forth.

If the tenant is directly responsible for the growth of mold by creating the conditions, or being aware of an issue and not reporting it in a timely manner, the landlord/landlady may choose to take the cost of remediation out of the tenants security deposit. If the tenant feels they are not at fault, this may require a court case, so compile evidence of mold, and keep records of any communication on the topic.

Hopefully, the issue can be resolved without a court case by just talking it out. However, either party may wish to get in touch with a lawyer to help them through the process. Because there are no set laws one way of the other, a court will take this at a case-by-case basis and may be in favor of one party or the other with no guarantee of settlement in your favor. This blog post should not be used as a substitute for actual legal advice. Please rely on your own attorney for advice and guidance.

Remember, for mold remediation in commercial or residential properties, SERVPRO of Plantation will arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened."

Yacht Water Damage: Can It Happen To You?

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

Your yacht is important to you- always be on the lookout for water damage.

Whether you enjoy cruising the ocean blue, relaxing on sunny weekends, or taking a boating trip every summer, your yacht is important to you, so you need to know how to take care of it and what to look out for that indicates yacht water damage in need of professional attention.

A few signs of potential yacht water damage include:

  • minor blistering or bubbling of surfaces in the structure of the yacht
  • excessive mildew odor inside or on deck
  • salty buildup on surfaces inside
Your yacht is important to you- always be on the lookout for water damage.

If you suspect your yacht has been water damaged, don't turn anything on and don't try to fix or clean anything yourself as this can cause more harm than good. Call a professional like those at SERVPRO of Plantation (or for your local SERVPRO team call 1-800-SERVPRO). Once you identify and possibly fix the cause of the water intrusion- which can include:

  • salt spray
  • slow leak
  • hurricane
  • etc.

-a SERVPRO team can get started on cleaning any upholstery, decks, walls, and anything else infiltrated by water.

Ocean water and even brackish water, like that in the intercoastal, are particularly difficult to remediate due to the salt content and should be left to your SERVPRO team. The sooner you get a team to your yacht, the less salt damage will occur. Salt will corrode important seals, joints, and mechanical components if left unfixed for too long.

Call SERVPRO of Plantation for all your yacht cleaning needs. Faster to any yacht water damage disaster SERVPRO of Plantation will make it "Like it never even happened."

Mold Remediation Process: How We Do It

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

Our tools allow us to find mold you didn't even know was there!

If your are in need of mold remediation services from SERVPRO of Plantation, you may be wondering how we do it. How do we know where there's mold? How do we get rid of it? Who else do I need to hire? Well, we're going to share with you today the complete step-by-step mold remediation process.

Step 1: Determining Mold

A third party mold inspector will need to come in and determine that there is, in fact, a mold problem, and the extent of the mold problem. You can either find one yourself, or call us for someone we recommend. The reason we cannot do the mold inspection ourselves is because of a Florida state law that protects the homeowner from being swindled by seedier remediation companies. If another company tells you they can do it themselves, in the state of Florida, it is a crime.

Step 2: Containment

Once a mold inspection has been done, we start mold containment procedures to help prevent the spread of harmful mold and mold spores while cleanup is taking place. We set up what is known as "air scrubbers" to clean the air of possible contaminates in the quarantined area while the job is being done.

Step 3: Mold Cleanup and Total Mold Remediation Process

After containment is set up, the cleaning can begin. Depending on the amount of mold present, our team may need to do little more than antifungal/antimicrobial treatments; or, in some cases, gut out drywall and flooring in order to eliminate mold colonies altogether.

Although you will need to hire a general contractor to replace any of the structure that needed to be removed, "restorable" items, such as curtains and furniture, can be thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and deodorize by our specialists.

We'll work closely with property managers and/or insurance companies to ensure the mold situation is handled as quickly as possible with as little hassle as possible. While we here at SERVPRO of Plantation hope you won't be in need of our services, should the need arise, we'll be there to make it "Like it never even happened."

Post-Hurricane Mold: Aftermath of Harvey and Irma

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

Post-hurricane mold is one of the biggest concerns AFTER a storm.

The 2017 hurricane season was one of the worst in years. Not only were there more than 5 storms, but over half of them were classified as a "major hurricane" ranking as a category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. This hurricane season is already being called one of the costliest in history as far as damages.

After a storm, your top concern, after you and your family's safety and well being, is damage done to your property. Flooding, leaky roofs, and busted pipes all account for water damage that can turn into a mold problem quickly. Mold issues after a big storm are not uncommon, even if you weren't aware of any moisture in your home.

Loss of power

Refrigerators and freezers:

If you lost power during the storm, there are a few things to look out for that indicate a moisture issue. Refrigerators and freezers often fail during hurricanes. Although keeping the doors closed sometimes helps keep the contents cool, when the power is out for several days, the food will start to get warm and condensate, causing moisture to form (like water on a cold glass). This moisture will leak and puddle, and can even seep into nearby walls.

Air conditioning units:

Air conditioning keeps our homes cool and less humid than the outside, but when the power fails, so does your AC's ability to remove moisture from the air. The busiest part of hurricane season is also the hottest and most humid. In a matter of hours your entire home can become even hotter than outside temperatures. This warm, muggy climate is the perfect breeding ground for microbes like mold.

What now?

If you were unable to catch the water before the formation of post-hurricane mold, or are worried post-hurricane mold may have formed anyway, call SERVPRO Plantation (or for your local SERVPRO call 1-800-SERVPRO). We will be with you every step of the way to have a third party check for mold while we work with insurance, and get the mold remediated. Even well after the storm, SERVPRO Plantation has your back with recovery.

Carpet Cleaning: Why Should I Have It Done?

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

Regular steam cleaners just don’t cut it- call SERVPRO Plantation today!

Everyone knows to vacuum their carpets every day- whether it be at work or at home- but not everyone knows they should also be doing deep cleanings regularly with trained professionals like those at SERVPRO Plantation. So today you’re going to be learning about the benefits of regular carpet cleaning.

Health-

Thorough carpet cleaning eliminates harmful particles that may be lurking in the debris caked into your carpet. These particles can include:

  • mold spores
  • allergens such as pet dander and pollen
  • dirt tracked in from outside that may contain fecal matter and lead
  • dust and dust mites
  • pesticides and paint particles

Regular carpet cleaning can not only reduce the risk of these particles negatively affecting small children and pets, but can also help protect the elderly, the immune compromised, and people who suffer from allergies or asthma.

Business-

Along with the above-mentioned health benefits, carpet cleaning is also important to businesses. The aesthetic of clean floors allows customers to be less distracted, and focus more on what you have to sell to them. Carpet cleaning is also good for the longevity of your carpet. As larger items like staples become trapped in the carpet, it can rip up and destroy the fibers little by little. Regular cleanings can assure your carpets last.

Carpet Cleaning and Stress-

Everyone knows that your everyday surroundings shape how you look at life. At home and the workplace, cleaner floors means feeling better and happier, as well as easing stress-related anxiety and depression. A clean work environment also drastically increases productivity which can lead to higher profits.

Happy carpets means happy people. SERVPRO Plantation can help with all your carpet cleaning needs. “Faster to your (carpet) disaster.”

Hurricane Preparation 2017 Tips and Tricks

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

NOAA's website has the latest information on developing storms.

With the height of hurricane season looming, hurricane preparation should be top priority for all Florida residents. SERVPRO Plantation is here to help with these hurricane preparation tips.

Hurricane preparation tips:

  • Before a storm hits make sure you've stocked up on clean drinking water or bottled water- one gallon per person per day for no less than three days.
  • Fill large freezer bags with water and freeze them with your freezer turned to its coldest setting. If the power goes out, you'll have blocks of ice to preserve things in the fridge and coolers.
  • Invest in a battery powered or hand crank radio to stay up-to-date on what's going on in your area.
  • Fill your vehicle's gas tank and any gas cans ahead of time.
  • Having a few camping lanterns will come in handy in the event of any power failures.
  • Unplug TVs, computers, and appliances before the storm to avoid damages to electronics.
  • Consider boarding up your house and going out of town until officials in your area say it's safe to return.
  • If you can't stay with friends or family outside of evacuation zones, be aware of your nearest hurricane shelter, and overnight kennels for your furry friends.
  • Be sure to withdraw cash from your bank account before the storm as some banks can be closed for days until power is restored.

Hurricane preparation is the most important skill for a south Florida family. The American Red Cross has a complete hurricane preparation checklist available here. Your hurricane preparation should be complete well before a storm hits. SERVPRO Plantation hopes you have a safe and damage-free storm season, but should disaster strike, SERVPRO Plantation will arrive "faster to your disaster" and make it "like it never happened."

Flood Preparation and What it Means for You

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

According to NOAA, flooding is a daily threat from coast to coast in the US.

Flooding and flash floods can happen anywhere and to anyone. You may not think you're at risk for flood damage, but even the highest and driest of places can be at risk, so it's important to have a flood preparation plan. But first, let's take a closer look at flooding and why it happens:

Causes of flooding-

Sometimes flooding can move in with very little warning and very quickly, we call this manner of flooding "flash flooding." Both kinds of floods can be caused by:

  • rains/storms
  • spring thaw/snow melting
  • seasonal flooding
  • dams or levy's breaking
  • tide/storm surge
  • river's over-flowing

NOAA has more information on floods and flood safety on their website.

How to build a flood preparation plan-

Know your area. Someone in the middle of the country won't have to worry about storm surge, but may be more at risk for their rivers overflowing with the spring thaw. If you are given the opportunity (in the case of severe storms or hurricanes, and other predictable phenomenon), evacuate your property. Make sure any important documents are secured in a flood proof safe. Be informed about your insurance plan- most don't cover flooding. If you feel you may need flood coverage, alter your plan before disaster strikes.

Flood preparation includes having a plan for after the fact. Know who to call for insurance purposes. Do you own the property, or do you rent? Do you have renter's insurance for your belongings? These are all questions you should keep into consideration while making your plan.

Flood waters are often category 3, also known as "black" water. This water can look safe and clean, but harbors dangerous pathogens and should be avoided, if possible. Never try to clean up water damaged property by yourself. Call in professionals like those at SERVPRO Plantation to handle the cleanup for you. 

Mold Prevention: What You Can Do

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

Mold often forms on perishable foods, so check and toss old food regularly.

Mold is everywhere- in the air, the water, the dirt, and even in the foods we eat. Molds and fungi can be beneficial to humans in a number of ways, but some molds that can form in buildings can be a huge health hazard. In south Florida, it's impossible to be completely mold-free, but this mold prevention guide will show you what you can do to ensure mold never becomes a threat to you or your family.

Clean air-

Indoors, be sure your air conditioning it set to a low enough temperature to always be ventilating all the rooms in your house, and constantly filtering any mold spores and other particles out of the air. Investing in a good quality air filter, and changing it regularly can help prevent the growth of mold.

Clean home-

Another key to mold prevention is to keep a clean house- inside and out. Clean thoroughly and regularly to prevent mold from forming in the first place or sticking around.

When choosing cleaning supplies, aim to pick a cleaner that is pet and child safe, but also makes the claim of eliminating mold and mold spores. Any messes involving water or other liquids should be cleaned thoroughly with these agents as soon as you notice them.

If  a water leak is a recurring problem (like a leaky fridge or AC unit), seek out professional help in repairing the problem, and then call SERVPRO Plantation (or to find your local SERVPRO call 1-800-SERVPRO) to check the inside of your walls and floors for mold. There can be dangerous mold hiding out in your walls without you even knowing!

Be on the lookout for these signs of a mold presence in your household:

  • small black dots on surfaces
  • strong musty odors
  • any evidence of past moisture problems (discoloration, warped floors or walls, etc)
  • excessive humidity

Mold prevention in South Florida is necessary to keep your family healthy, so make sure you do all you can to prevent mold before it becomes a problem. And should you ever need mold remediation services SERVPRO Plantation will make it "like it never even happened."

Lightning Safety and Education

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

Lightning is supersonic!

Lightning strikes the Earth approximately 100 times every second. At up to one billion volts, it is one of the most powerful forces of nature. Due to the high amount of thunder storms, Florida is sometimes called the lightning capital of the world. It's important for everyone living here in South Florida, or even just visiting, to know some basic lightning safety.

What is lightning?

Let's start by looking at what causes lightning. Lightning is caused when negatively charged air particles in the clouds shoot out to meet positively charged trees, lightning rods, ground, etc. The positively charged ground reaches back up to meet up with the negative air particles. When the positive and negative charges meet, the electricity in the air causes it to heat up to 30,000 kelvins (over 53,000 degrees Fahrenheit!). The surface of the sun, in comparison, is only 6,000 kelvins (a little over 10,000 Fahrenheit). The air heats up faster than the speed of sound, creating the crackling SNAP! of thunder. That's the sound of air breaking the sound barrier!

Lightning Safety Tips:

  • When lightning is in the area, seek shelter right away- indoors is the safest place for you
  • Consider installing a lightning protection system for your home- they are relatively inexpensive and can protect your electronics from lightning strikes
  • If there is no lightning protection system, stay away from corded electronics as they can carry the dangerous current for miles
  • Only fully-covered metal-framed cars are safe in a thunderstorm- convertibles, motorcycles, and fiberglass-based cars are not safe!
  • Stay out from under trees since lighting can still hurt you even if it's not a direct hit

Lightning Fun Facts:

  • Lightning strikes have a 10-30% mortality rate
  • There's a 1 in 3000 chance you will be struck by lightning in your lifetime
  • Lightning often strikes the same place twice- in fact, someone that has been struck once already is more likely to be struck again!
  • Lightning can strike 10-15 miles away from the thunderstorm under clear skies- these are called "bolts from the blue"
  • Wearing metal has no bearing on whether or not lightning strikes you
  • Lightning strikes 30 million different places on the ground in the US every year

Bleach and Mold- What Your Should Know

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

Don't try to clean up mold yourself- call SERVPRO Plantation today!

It's not uncommon for people to think dumping bleach on areas affected by mold will solve the problem without needing to call in professional help. This could not be farther from the truth. Let's take a look at why you shouldn't try to clean up mold yourself with household bleach.

Bleach

You clean your bathroom with it, disinfect household items with it, when diluted properly, you can even use it to clean things like toys or dental retainers. So why wouldn't you use it for something as harmful as mold? Well, when mold appears on walls and ceilings in your home it's likely already formed on the inside of those structures from water events, like a pipe leaking, or excessive humidity. Because of the chemical composition of bleach, it won't do an effective job of permeating into where the mold is living. The particles of the bleach are simply too large to penetrate most surfaces. So even if you "clean up" the mold and can no longer see it, it can still be lurking and pose a health threat to you and your family.

Dead mold is still dangerous

Even if bleaching completely kills all the mold in an area of your home, it can still be dangerous. While dead mold can no longer grow, these "non-viable" mold spores can still be hazardous to your health, particularly to people with allergies, asthma, or people that are immune-compromised such as the elderly.

So what can you do?

Be on the lookout for these signs of mold:

  • strong musty odors
  • evidence of moisture
  • excessive humidity
  • visible mold

As soon as you notice a presence of mold, call SERVPRO Plantation at 954-733-1006 24/7 (or for your local SERVPRO call 1-800-SERVPRO) for immediate assessment. Our qualified technicians have the tools and training to identify the severity of the problem and can best inform you where to go from there. Remember, faster to your disaster, SERVPRO Plantation will make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Helping Houston

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Ft. Lauderdale North and SERVPRO Plantation helping Houston!

Last month, the largest storm to make landfall in Texas in over 50 years dumped over 2 feet of water on Houston over the course of 3 days. Hurricane Harvey, a category four on the Saffir-Simpson scale, rained more in one hour over the city than the area typically gets during the entire month of August. This record amount of rainfall left homes severely damaged or completely washed away.

After the rain stopped, Texans got to work picking up the pieces of their homes and businesses to get things back to normal. During this time, local SERVPRO teams were so over-encumbered they called in other SERVPRO teams from all over the country to aid in clean-up and restoration. SERVPRO Plantation was one of hundreds of teams who responded to the call.

We loaded up two UHaul trucks (that UHaul rented to us at a great discount!), an RV, and a few SERVPRO vans and caravaned through three states from Fort Lauderdale to Houston. Over the weeks that followed, we helped many families get their lives back to normal by drying hardwood floors, cleaning carpets, and ripping out soggy drywall.

SERVPRO Plantation is proud to be part of the Storm Response Team helping Houston recover from the storm. Faster to any size disaster, SERVPRO Plantation will make it "Like it never even happened."

Water Loss Restoration Equipment

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

This infrared camera shows us the water in the wall (indicated by blue).

When water damage threatens your property, it's important to call in a restoration company like SERVPRO Plantation to mitigate the water right away, so no secondary damages occur. Since some water can be contaminated (such as flood waters or sewage leaks), do not try to clean it yourself. The professionals at SERVPRO Plantation are highly qualified, and armed with the water loss restoration equipment and the know-how to deal with any size water loss situation.

Water detection devices

  • moisture sensors and moisture meters- detect the presence of water, and measure the moisture content (how much water is in it), respectively.
  • thermo-hygrometers- measures both temperature and humidity. This knowledge helps them set up the right kind of equipment to extract the moisture from furniture, flooring, etc.
  • infrared cameras- allow technicians to identify water in the walls that might otherwise be undetectable.

Cleaning and restoration equipment

  • extractors- either truck-mounted or portable, this equipment is for cleaning carpet and upholstery, as well as for removing moisture from floors after water loss.
  • dehumidifiers- suck moisture in from the air and condense it (it'll be drained into a bucket or directly into a sink or bath tub) the machine pumps back out dry, warm air, allowing the area to dry faster.
  • foggers- atomizes deodorizing agents into a mist or fog that can penetrate and help clean hard-to-reach places like the inside of walls.

Click here for more information on our water restoration services, or click here to view water loss before and after pictures. And remember, faster to any size disaster, SERVPRO Plantation will make it "Like it never even happened."

Bonfire Safety: Keeping Your Family Safe This Season

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

Set up seating at a safe distance from your pit.

Halloween candy is flooding into the stores, pumping spiced everything is approaching, and in South Florida, bonfire season is upon us! In the colder months when people have fun around outdoor fires with friends and loved ones, bonfire safety is the most important to ensure everyone has a good time and stays out of harm's way.

Basic bonfire safety-

Teach both your children and pets that fire is dangerous and not to be played around. Always keep an eye on little ones and four-legged friends to be sure they don't get careless and end up hurt. If you feel you need a little extra protection you can

  • put a mesh lid on the pit
  • set up a baby gate around the fire
  • tie up or anchor pets at a safe distance

If you plan on having a fire on your own property, consider investing in a good quality fire pit. Most pits come with a stand and a protective mesh top and are made out of non-toxic metal with no dyes or finishes. Having a self-contained pit (like the one pictured) will help assure the safety of everyone around, as well as protecting your property.

What to burn-

As satisfying as it might be to throw your greasy burger plate on the fire and watch it burst and sizzle, resist the urge to put anything in the fire besides firewood. Styrofoam and plastic can create toxic smoke, and paper products cause large amounts of hot ash and smoke to billow around the pit area.

Some plants that grow here, like mango trees and black olive can be toxic if burned. Try staying away from burning plants found on your property, as the smoke of toxic plants not only burn the eyes and throat, but poison any food prepared over the fire. 

More than anything, bonfires are meant to be a fun, warm gathering place for friends and family as the nights grow colder. SERVPRO Plantation wishes everyone a safe, fun season. 

Ozone Generators and Fire Restoration

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

Here is a simplified graphic of how ozone generators work.

Ozone is triatomic oxygen or enriched oxygen. Rather than having two atoms like in the oxygen we breathe, ozone has three bonded oxygen atoms. It is a strong oxidizing agent as well as a sterilizing agent most commonly used in fire restoration to eliminate smoke odors. We at SERVPRO Plantation use machines known as ozone generators to produce the gas.

The machine uses a high voltage corona mechanism to emulate the same conditions that would allow ozone to form in nature (such as lightning).  Regular oxygen from the air goes in, ozone comes out and can then be directed wherever it is needed.

Some examples of what can be deodorized with ozone are odors associated with:

  • fire
  • tobacco
  • cooking
  • decay
  • biohazards

However, ozone is less effective on inorganic odors (meaning odors not derived from living matter) such as:

  • ammonia
  • phosphates
  • chlorides
  • sulfates
  • nitrates

The reason for this is because the third oxygen molecule bonds with the organic odor compound and oxidizes it. The ozone then turns into regular oxygen and eliminates the smell by breaking it down at a vastly accelerated rate compared to standard oxygen. Oxygen molecules have trouble bonding with and oxidizing inorganic compounds, making it less effective on them.

There are very little drawbacks to using ozone generators in fire restoration jobs, if used correctly and as mandated by OSHA. Ozone is converted back to oxygen in a matter of minutes, so rooms or buildings only need to be evacuated for a short period of time.

Remember to not use any ozone generators on your own and call in only qualified professionals like our team at SERVPRO Plantation to deal with smoke odors.

Fire Damage: Dos and Do Nots

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

For water and fire damage cleanup and restoration, call SERVPRO!

After a fire takes place, there's a million things on your mind. Hopefully you had a plan in place to protect your loved ones and important property. To help protect your home and belongings from further damage, here are a few tips for what you should and should not do after fire damage takes place.

Fire damage dos:

  1. Limit the amount of movement through the affected area to prevent the spread of soot and other particles which may cause additional damages. If the affected area is too large to avoid, evacuate while repairs are being done.
  2. Placing large clean rags, or old linens on rugs and upholstery in your home can also help prevent the spread of soot.
  3. Coating chrome fixtures like your faucets, or other parts of appliances with petroleum jelly.
  4.  If there is water in your home and on your floors, protect your furniture by putting a barrier like foil or wooden blocks where the furniture touches the floor.

Fire damage do nots:

  1. Do not wash any walls or other painted surfaces yourself- improper cleaning can stain the walls.
  2. Do not try to clean or shampoo any carpets, rugs, or upholstery. Trying to clean up fire damage yourself is extremely hazardous to your personal health. Always call a professional.
  3. Do not clean any electrical equipment as this is dangerous, have a professional look at it, or replace it.
  4. Do not send clothes to a dry cleaner as improper cleaning can set smoke odors and stains.

For more information on our fire damage restoration services, visit our page or give us a call. With 24-hour emergency service, SERVPRO Plantation will arrive faster to your disaster, and make it "like it never even happened."

Clean Condos Sell Faster

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

From townhouses to high-rises, get your property in tip-top shape!

If you are looking to rent out or sell your condo, ensuring its total cleanliness before putting it on the market is pivotal to finding a buyer faster. Old tenants can leave behind stains on walls, ground in dirt on the carpeting, and all other kinds of wear-and-tear in and around your property. Clean condos don't only look better, they sell faster, so here are a few steps you can take to get your property in tip-top shape for selling:

1) Air ducts

The first step to making your property smell and feel clean is to get the air ducts cleaned out. Clean ducts (and a fresh filter in the AC unit) can help to eliminate allergens in the air. The buildup of dust and other particles in ducts can also lead to dank or musty odors in your condo, so clean before selling, and continue their upkeep regularly, can keep your building safer and more pleasant to be in.

2) Upholstery

If you are looking to rent or sell your condo fully-furnished, have all the upholstery cleaned next. Years of use means years of food stains and other messes on your furniture. Make your chairs and sofas like new again with professional cleaning.

3) Floors

Getting your floors cleaned comes with a host of health benefits as well as making your condo look good. Clean floors and carpets help people breathe easier, especially if they have known allergies or other conditions such as asthma.

4) Clean condos- general upkeep

Of course, the general upkeep and appearance of your building is to be kept in consideration. If you know you'll be showing someone a condo, make sure the common areas like hallways and stairwells have been cleaned recently. First impressions are important!

Remember, for all your commercial cleaning needs, call SERVPRO Plantation today!

Water Loss Categories... What Do they Mean?

3/23/2017 (Permalink)

Don't get swamped in a water loss, call SERVPRO of Plantation!

IICRC Water Loss Categories


At SERVPRO of Plantation, we understand that you hope you never have to call us for a water loss. But unfortunately, sometimes fate has other plans. When a water loss strikes, arming yourself with knowledge is the first step to avoiding severe water damage. In the water restoration business, we have refer to three categories of water, as laid out by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification or IICRC. We refer to these as categories 1, 2, and 3.





Don't get swamped in a water loss, call SERVPRO of Plantation!



Category 1 Water


Category 1 water is the least contaminated, and therefore the least hazardous to your well being. Category 1 water is any water that comes from a potable water source. However, just because a water loss is has category 1 water doesn't mean that the issue should be ignored. Category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 water is left standing.


Category 2 Water


Category 2 water is defined by the IICRC as "having a level of contaminates that may cause illness or discomfort if ingested." This can include water from sources such as backed up drains, dishwashers, and toilet overflows that contain urine, but not feces. If you believe you have a category 2 water in your water loss, it is even more important to seek professional help, such as SERVPRO of Plantation, immediately. The microbial growth that can occur in category two water can be hazardous to your health, and should be removed as soon as possible.


 


Category 3 Water


The final category of water that can occur in a water loss is category 3 water. This water is defined by the IICRC as "the worst classification and is grossly unsanitary. It could cause severe illness or death if ingested. It used to be called black water, and sources include sewer backup, flooding from rivers or streams, toilet overflow with feces, and stagnant liquid that has begun to support bacterial growth."


Scary stuff...


Category 3 water requires special remediation techniques due to the highly hazardous nature of the water, and should only be cleaned up by an IICRC certified restoration company, such as SERVPRO of Plantation. Attempting to clean a large category 3 loss without professional knowledge or equipment can lead not only to loss of property, but also damage to your health.


No matter what category of water you find in your water loss, SERVPRO of Plantation has the equipment and know-how to make your water loss "Like it never even happened."


To learn more about SERVPRO of Plantation's water restoration services, click here.

Is Your Family at Risk From Lead Paint?

12/28/2016 (Permalink)

Is your family at risk of lead paint exposure?

What You Need To Know

Lead paint was commonly used in the US prior to 1978, when it was banned, but not before being used in over 38 million homes. Exposure to lead can affect development of the brain and nervous system, particularly in children. This can cause reduced IQ, learning disabilities and behavioral problems. Older homes, child care facility, schools and other buildings are more likely to contain lead paint, the percentages are as follows:

  • Built between 1960-1978= 24%
  • Built between 1940-1960= 69%
  • Built before 1940= 87%

What Do I Do About Lead Paint?

Usually, lead paint that is in good repair and maintained properly is not hazardous. The danger comes whenever paint dust is present, or the paint is disturbed, either by peeling or by a construction or restoration project. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires firms performing renovation, repair and painting projects on buildings with lead paint to be certified by the EPA in the use of lead-safe practices. An EPA certified firm shall follow the following lead-safe procedures.

  • Contain the work area
  • Minimize dust
  • Clean up thoroughly

SERVPRO of Fort Lauderdale North is certified by the EPA to handle restoration jobs involving lead paint safely, using approved procedures to avoid potential harm to your family.

How Can I Protect My Family From Lead Exposure?

  • If you are renting your property, notify your landlord if you notice peeling or chipping paint.
  • Clean up any paint chips immediately.
  • Regularly clean floors, window sills and other painted surfaces. Use a mop, sponge or paper towel with warm water and an all purpose cleaner, or a cleaner designed specifically for lead.
  • Thoroughly rinse sponges and mop heads after cleaning dusty areas.
  • Wash children’s toys, bottles and pacifiers often.
  • Keep children from licking or chewing on window sills or other painted surfaces.
  • Make sure children maintain a healthy diet, as recommended by the USDA. A healthy diet lowers the risk of harm from lead.
  • Clean and remove shoes before entering your home to avoid tracking in lead from soil.

When it comes to the safety of your family, you don’t want to take any unnecessary risks. If you’re in need of a restoration service, contact SERVPRO of Plantation, the team you know will work safely in a lead paint environment.

Where to Turn for Automotive Biohazard Cleanup

12/19/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Plantation Can Restore an Automotive Biohazard.

An automotive biohazard occurs when an organic fluid, most commonly blood is introduced into a vehicle, usually the cabin area. This can lead not only to a difficult stain to clean, but a potential hazard for the vehicle owner.

There are many causes for an automotive biohazard. The first and most obvious cause of an automotive biohazard is one everyone prays will not happen to them, an automotive accident. Most people don’t have a real plan for how to recover from a car crash, despite the fact that 27,000 accidents occur every single day. Most of these result in minor damage, and only 0.3% result in a fatality.

Everyone knows the immediate plan, call the police, file an insurance claim and wait for the damage to be repaired. But what if the damage is not something that a mechanic is trained to handle, like blood or other organic material? Even a minor injury from an accident can cause blood stains inside a vehicle.

There are other reasons a car may be contaminated with a biohazard as well. A minor injury can cause quite a lot of bleeding, and emergencies that don’t require an ambulance often cause some staining of blood in the car used to reach the ER. A woman entering labor, also, would need transportation to a hospital and cay cause an automotive biohazard.

What to Do if Your Vehicle is Contaminated

A biohazard contaminated vehicle needs more than just a simple cleaning, it needs a dull decontamination of the organic material. Organic material can be difficult to clean, and also needs to be properly sanitized to ensure safety for the vehicle owner. Enter SERVPRO. Our highly trained Automotive Biohazard Remediation Specialists will not only clean the staining, but also make sure there is no risk of bacterial infection or other dangers left inside your vehicle. Click Here to learn more about SERVPRO’s biohazard cleanup system.

9 Holiday Fire Safety Tips From the American Red Cross

12/6/2016 (Permalink)

Using candles safely is one of the Red Cross' holiday fire safety tips.

Holiday Fire Safety Tips

The holidays are a time for decoration, celebration and family. But with our secor and festivities comes a creater risk of fire. Candles, festive lights, decor and large scale cooking all come with the season, but can lead to some dangerous scenarios. In fact, The American Red reports that nearly 47,000 fires occur during the winter holidays claiming more than 500 lives, causing more than 2,200 injuries, and costing $554 million in property damage! Listed below are some holiday fire safety tips to make your holiday season safe and wonderful.

 

Preparedness Tips

  • Place Christmas trees, candles, and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents and candles.
  • Purchase flame retardant metallic or artificial trees. If you purchase a real tree, make sure that it has fresh, green needles that aren’t easily broken. Keep live trees as moist as possible by giving them plenty of water.
  • Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving home or going to bed. 9 Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
  • Use only sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees.
  • Keep anything that can catch on fire—pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove top.
  • Designate one person to walk around your home to make sure that all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after guests leave.
  •  Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.

Source: http://www.redcross.org/images/MEDIA_CustomProductCatalog/m4340080_FireHolidayFactSheet.pdf

Selling Your Home? A Clean Home Sells Faster!

11/15/2016 (Permalink)

There’s a lot on the mind of a homeowner looking to sell and it’s easy to become buried in advice. However, one thing a seller should keep in mind is giving their property a thorough deep cleaning. Along with tons of other advice, seasoned realtors will encourage their clients to keep their home in top condition to increase market value, reduce list to sale conversion times on homes and to enhance their own reputation for quality listings and quick sales.

A common response is, “But I’m very tidy, clean my home all the time.” While it’s true that regular cleaning goes a long way in making your home look desirable to a buyer, a professional deep cleaning can go way further than most people would imagine. For example, imagine a prospective buyer loves the look of a home, but suffers from allergies. Even if a homeowner has tirelessly cleaned the home from top to bottom, there will likely be pet dander and other allergens in the air ducts and HVAC system that may affect the prospective. An owner why smokes can leave undesirable odors in a home, and they can even be transferred from clothing if the homeowner didn’t smoke inside. These odors can make a property less desirable to a potential buyer.

Fortunately, SERVPRO of Plantation offers comprehensive cleaning solutions to make your sale quick and clean.

After the blaze: How to Protect Your Property From Damage AFTER a Fire

11/15/2016 (Permalink)

The first 48 hours after a fire are the most critical to avoiding additional damage.

A fire is a truly destructive force of nature. With all the devastation a fire can cause while burning, it's easy to forget that your home or business may still be in danger after the fire is extinguished.

The first 48 hours after a fire are the most critical to protecting your property from any residual dangers, and can often make the difference between restoration or full on replacement of your valuables. The first step is to contact a professional restoration service, like SERVPRO of Plantation. However, there are other steps you can take to protect your home or business, such as:

  • Limiting the amount of movement through the affected area to prevent the spread of soot particles which may cause additional damage
  • Placing clean towels or used linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery
  • Coating chrome fixtures, such as faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil
  • Placing aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet
  • Not washing any walls or painted surfaces
  • Not shampooing any carpet or upholstery
  • Not cleaning any electrical equipment
  • Not sending clothing to a dry cleaner (improper cleaning can set smoke odor)


At SERVPRO of Plantation, we understand the need to get your life back to normal after a disaster, but before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the fire damage restoration and cleanup experts at SERVPRO of Plantation to make it “Like it never even happened.”

What is Biohazard Remediation?

8/9/2016 (Permalink)

Biohazard remediation is not a very common call that we receive and is something that rarely occurs, but if it does occur, it is something that SERVPRO Ft. Lauderdale North can hanlde. We come in to make sure that the biological matter and dangerous odors are eliminated all together so that those contaminates do not spread. Biohazard damages can include offensive odors, trauma scenes, human decomposition, hoarding removal, and gross/filth removal. None of these are pleasant things that you want in your home. These issues are also something that you should not plan on cleaning up yourself. SERVPRO Ft. Lauderdale North is professionally qualified to come in and get rid of the issues that biohazard damage can cause. Call us @ 954-733-1006. 

We Deodorize

7/27/2016 (Permalink)

Interesting fact about SERVPRO Ft. Lauderdale North, we can deodorize the toxins that come from substances such as nicotine. Tobacco smoke is composed of numerous types of gasses as well as carcinogens and heavy metals, like arsenic, lead, and cyanide. Sticky, highly toxic particulates, like nicotine, can cling to walls and ceilings. Gases can be absorbed into carpets, draperies, and other upholsteries. Many times hotels or realtors will call on us to come in and clean rooms that have been inhabited by heavy smokers. Your basic cleaning service is not going to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors. 

Pelican Grand Beach Resort

7/27/2016 (Permalink)

When Pelican Grand Beach Resort received noticed that one of their VIP clients was staying in the hotel for a few days, their first thought was to call SERVPRO of Ft Lauderdale North to come in make their carpets look VIP ready. Our crew had a very busy schedule this morning, but that didn’t bother them. They were on site within minutes setting up equipment to get the job done. SERVPRO Ft. Lauderdale North responds quickly to any job small or big such as cleaning carpets to a large loss disaster. We are reliable, we are efficient, and we are professional. Call us for all your cleaning and disaster needs!

Anything Can Happen, Let Us Help

7/27/2016 (Permalink)

Living in South Florida we experience a lot of heavy rains and, unfortunately, hurricanes. Hurricanes mean a lot of water. A lot of water can lead to water damage. If water damage sticks around for too long it can cause major issues within the home. SERVPRO Ft. Lauderdale North professionals are here to help immediately after a storm passes through, making sure the storm doesn’t ruin your home any further. Hurricane season lasts until November 31st so make sure to be prepared and have SERVPRO Ft. Lauderdale North on speed dial (954-733-1006) if anything should go wrong.

Category 3: Not a Hurricane

7/27/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fort Lauderdale North and Plantation recently performed a water restoration and clean up at an apartment that experienced category 3 water damage. Category 3 water damage is when Feces, urine, and toxic chemicals are found in the water contaminating the home. In this particular water damage job, the contaminated water from the bathroom seeped through the carpet and reached heights as high as the bed. Category 3 water damage is considered to be a bio-hazard due to all the toxicity found in this type of water. This is something that we at SERVPRO of Fort Lauderdale North and Plantation can take care of and make it look “Like it never even happened”.

What Is an ERP?

7/27/2016 (Permalink)

"By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail."

Benjamin Franklin

 

If a disaster strikes, are you ready with a solid plan for your place of business? Are you equipped with information to handle a disaster remotely? Do you have vital business data and emergency contacts right at the palm of your hands?

If you answered no to any of these questions, it’s time to be proactive and get prepared. Luckily SERVPRO® of Fort Lauderdale North and Plantation has you covered. With our Emergency READY Profile or ERP you will be able to handle any disaster remotely right at the palm of your hands. Our ERP comes in form of an app that can be downloaded right to your smart phone. The app can hold all of your emergency contacts, specific instructions, and can be shared with all important members of your team.

We offer this very handy service for FREE.

Why free you might ask? Well, SERVPRO® is a national sponsor of the American Red Cross' Ready Rating program, and as a part of our community service, we are helping local business prepare for disasters. Our mobile app is a way to help you get started and in the event of a disaster we at SERVPRO® of Fort Lauderdale North and Plantation would hope you consider us for service, but it’s not a requirement.

By working with SERVPRO® of Fort Lauderdale North and Plantation to develop your personalized Emergency READY Profile your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order and minimizing the amount of time your business is inactive hence saving you money.

 

Give us a call today to set up an appointment. It’s quick, easy, and no cost to you.

Wine Jazz and Taste

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Plantation recently had the pleasure of not only attending the 18th annual Wine Jazz and Taste of Plantation, but also participating as a sponsor of this fantastic event. The Plantation Chamber of Commerce did a wonderful job gathering local restaurants and businesses from the community. The delicious array of food paired with tasteful varieties of wine made for an enjoyable night of connecting and networking with the community.

Surprise! Mold is Everywhere!

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

Think your home is pristine? There is no way mold can be infesting your sanctuary, right? Think again. Mold may be hiding within your residence. Mold problems can occur anywhere if conditions are ideal for growth, and some portions of your home may be home to mold, as well. You may try to maintain a clean environment, constantly dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, organizing, and doing a thorough cleaning of your property, but you may have missed a spot…or a few. For example, your washing machine may be a hot spot for mold. Check the door of the washing machine, inside the gasket. Dark, warm, moist areas are ideal for mold growth. Make sure to wipe under the door gasket after each wash to prevent mold growth. Also leave the door open to air-out the washing machine.

Costa Del Sol Hotel

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Ft. Lauderdale North is a very diverse restoration company. Along with taking care of water loss and mold remediation; we clean carpets and upholstery. Recently we cleaned a couple of rooms for a hotel called Costa Del Sol in Ft. Lauderdale. We deep cleaned the carpet, upholstery, and the tile floor, leaving the rooms looking spotless. Call us at 954-733-1006 to let us help you keep your home or business clean!!

9/11 Cleaning

7/26/2016 (Permalink)


When we mention that we can take care of places other than homes and small businesses, we dont mention how we participated in the clean up of 9/11 clean up in D.C. SERVPRO professionals dried 300,000 square feet of the Pentagon, as well as provided fire, soot, and smoke clean up. The job  was finished in 90 days proving that SERVPRO is motivated to get the job done on a local and national level. Call your local SERVPRO and rely on us to get the job done. 

No Job Is Too Large

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Get the professionals, call SERVPRO.

Clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include the following:

  • The Hospitality Industry
  • Property Managers
  • Universities
  • Municipalities
  • The Pentagon

Can You See What We See?

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

This is an example of the pitfalls of "Do It Yourself" work when a water intrusion takes place. Untrained property owners sometimes don't know what they do not know.

Case in point: In the attached photo, a customer insisted "everything was fine" here.  At first glance she appeared to be correct. The wall was intact . . . the paint wasn't bubbling . . . everything SEEMED to be normal.

Our advanced detection equipment proved otherwise. Take a look at the blue streaks in this infrared camera image. The streaks show where water had impacted the wall from a flood up above.

We disobeyed our customer, and checked out this area despite her assessment that "all is dry." She's probably glad we did, because we're certain her tenants would want to know the water damage is properly mitigated to prevent microbial growth

Yeah, We Do This!

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

Sewer backups are more than downright gross -- they are potentially dangerous. Sewage and other forms of "Black Water" are "grossly contaminated" and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. We strongly encourage customers to refrain from tackling these jobs themselves. Sometimes hiring a trained, certified professional is well worth the investment -- most importantly for your health!

Post Flame Recovery

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

Fires cause unnecessary havoc in people’s lives. Half the battle is getting rid of the flames. After the flames are gone, there is a lot more to be done and that’s where we come in. Your home definitely suffered smoke and fire damage as well as possible water damage and the professionals at SERVPRO have the skills and equipment necessary to restore your house to the way it was before the fire. We follow these steps to make sure your home is back to the way it was before the fire.  For an easy and hassle-free experience, trust SERVPRO to help manage everything for you, including the insurance claims process.

American Red Cross Events

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is proud to announce its participation of sponsoring the American Red Cross in local events. It’s important for Red Cross sponsors to be active in the events the Red Cross hosts so we do our best to show our face. The most recent event that we attended was the Sips for Tips event, held at the Mod Wine Lounge. The event was hosted so that 20% of bottle sales benefited the American Red Cross, allowing the organization to maximize what they receive to help others.

Another upcoming event that we will be attending hosted by the American Red Cross will be the Dine and Dock event. This event will be a VIP Celebrity auction event with the presentation of the 2016 Humanitarian awards. All proceeds raised from this event benefit the American Red Cross aiding in their response to local disasters, ranging from home fires that affect a single family to hurricanes that affect tens of thousands. To attend or sponsor, visit  http://www.redcross.org/local/florida/south-florida/humanitarian-dinner. Hope you can make it!

Survive The Storm

7/21/2016 (Permalink)

As you may know, hurricane season has already started and it will be sticking around until the end of November. This unpredictable season can affect your travel plans or just a quiet and simple summer at home. If you plan on traveling during hurricane season and are concerned about the weather believe it or not....there’s an app for that. The American Red Cross Association, who we are a proud sponsor of, created an app called Hurricane by American Red Cross to monitor hurricane conditions in your local area, throughout the storm track, and let others know you are safe even if the power is out. The app also allows you to monitor the weather of the destination desired. This is a great app. We recommend to download it and use it throughout the year. 

Also, if you haven't done so already, building a hurricane survival kit is essential during this time of year. Especially if you decide to stay home and weather out the storm. Here are some essential items to start a Hurricane Survival Kit: 

·         Water (one gallon per person, per day)

·    None  perishable food 

·         Flashlights and batteries 

·         First Aid Kit

·         Battery powered radio 

·         Insect repellant

·         Moist towelettes 

·        Manuel can opener 

·         Change of clothes

·         Toiletries

The list can go on, but these are some essentials that would make surviving a disastrous hurricane a lot easier. 

Whether its water damage, fire damage, mold damage or even biohazard remediation, small scale or a large loss, you can rely on SERVPRO of Plantation's qualified Mold,  Fire and water damage specialists to give you peace of mind knowing we'll arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened". Call us anytime at 954-733-1006

Have a safe and happy rest of the summer! 

South Florida PGA Golf Pass

7/19/2016 (Permalink)

If you love golfing and you live in South Florida, you should look into purchasing The South Florida PGA GolfPass. The pass is valid through May 1st -October 31st. What the GolfPass does is provide golfers of all ages and skill levels the opportunity to play at multiple golf courses at discounted rates. The SFPGA GolfPass offers the ultimate golf experience: discounted play, exclusive outings, special merchandise offers, complimentary tickets to PGA TOUR events and more – all benefits of becoming a SFPGA GolfPass member!

  • Enjoy discounted play at over 210 courses (including resort, private, semi-private, public and executive courses, along with driving ranges, golf schools, etc.)
  • Enjoy exclusive offers, renewal specials for returning members and discounts for groups of 4 or more, 8 or more and a discount corporate rate is also available!
  • Extended play options beyond the regular SFPGA GolfPass season at over 50 facilities.
  • Additional specials including discounted merchandise, food and lessons from PGA Professionals at select facilities.

SERVPRO is a proud sponsor of the Professional Golf Association and encourage you to take on the heat, go outside, and get active. If you’re interested in buying a pass visithttp://sfpgagolf.com/golfpass/

Whether its water damage, fire damage, mold damage or even biohazard remediation, small scale or a large loss, you can rely on SERVPRO of Plantation's qualified Mold,  Fire and water damage specialists to give you peace of mind knowing we'll arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened". Call us anytime at 954-733-1006

Fires Dont Have To Burn

7/13/2016 (Permalink)

Fires can happen in the workplace and in the home. The most common ways that fires occur in homes are from cooking, candles, careless smoking, and something minor such as having too many electronics plugged into an outlet at once. When it comes to fires in the workplace, the issue seems to be general negligence. General negligence refers to leaving food in the microwave to long or leaving a coffee where it can be spilled on electrical wires. Most of these fire issues are able to be avoided simply by having fire extinguishers nearby, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and in building fire sprinklers installed. It is also a good idea to inform friends and family of fire hazards and safety. 

Whether its water damage, fire damage, mold damage or even biohazard remediation, small scale or a large loss, you can rely on SERVPRO of Plantation's qualified Mold,  Fire and water damage specialists to give you peace of mind knowing we'll arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened". Call us anytime at 954-733-1006

Is the Association Responsible for My Condo Damage?

7/13/2016 (Permalink)

 We enter situations frequently where condo unit owners ask, "Isn't the condo association responsible for paying for / drying out the flood in my unit?"

   We always reiterate that we are not attorneys, and that the unit owner should consult one if they desire a better answer than we could provide. I just read a blog by Herb M. Milgrim, Esq., a local attorney that represents incdividual condo owners. (http://www.floridacondoattorneys.com/condo-mold-and-water-damage/) seemed to sum up concisely what we've experienced in these situations. He writes:

   "I get hundreds of calls from condo owners that have suffered some type of damage due to toxic mold and water intrusion from the condominium common elements like the roof and plumbing as well as damage from other units.  Most people think that the Condominium Association Insurance will cover all of their damage.  While it is true that Florida Condominium Associations are responsible for maintaining the common elements and are required to provide insurance for the building, most Condominium Insurance Policies have mold exclusions or have very limited coverage for damage due to mold.  In addition, most people don’t know that Florida Condominium Owners are required to have insurance on their own units. Section 718.111 of the Florida Condominium Act  sets forth the insurance requirements for Condominium Association and for the Individual Condo Owners.  Typically the Association is responsible from the drywall out and the individual unit owner is responsible from the paint inward. That means, if a common pipe bursts without any warning and all of your furniture and personal property gets damaged,  you won’t be able to recover unless you have insurance on your condominium unit or unless you can prove negligence on the part of the condominium association or some other party. The standard insurance policy that individuals usually obtain for their condominium unit is what is called an “HO6″ Policy.  This policy provides coverage for the Dwelling and for the Personal Property or contents of the unit."

Courtesy: http://www.floridacondoattorneys.com/

Whether its water damage, fire damage, mold damage or even biohazard remediation, small scale or a large loss, you can rely on SERVPRO of Plantation's qualified Mold,  Fire and water damage specialists to give you peace of mind knowing we'll arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened". Call us anytime at 954-733-1006

Saving Money for the Insurance Company, and Headaches for the Customer

7/13/2016 (Permalink)

We could have ripped out the tiles (they were popping up) and torn out the cabinets (they were wet) and probably have gotten away with it. It would have meant for a much larger job, and more money for us as the restoration provider.

But it also would have meant more costs for the insurance company and a lot more headaches for the elderly resident whose condo suffered full-bore water damage from a broken water heater.

Properly dried and appropriately managed, the cabinets needed relatively small repairs - in place of an all-too-frequent total replacement recommendation, which can cause substantial delays for the customer whose main concern was to get back into her home healthy, clean and dry. And the tiles, which had begun to lift and unsettle due to the water intrusion, could be repaired and solidified using an injection stabilization procedure. More often than not, restoration providers would recommend total tearout of the continuous matching tiles throughout the unit, complete with a packout and a turnaround time exceeding into multiple weeks.

By repairing these items instead of replacing them, we were able to save the insurance provider tens of thousands of dollars and get the homeowner back into her residence much earlier.

Repairing isn't always an option versus replacing. But in this instance we were glad to have the opportunity to do things the right way for our two customers -- the insurance company and the senior citizen homeowner. We are proud, and appreciate the opportunity to toot our horn.

Whether its water damage, fire damage, mold damage or even biohazard remediation, small scale or a large loss, you can rely on SERVPRO of Plantation's qualified Mold,  Fire and water damage specialists to give you peace of mind knowing we'll arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened". Call us anytime at 954-733-1006

Protecting Your Home

7/13/2016 (Permalink)

  Anyone can rip out contaminated drywall. Doing it in a safe manner that is compliant with standards, rules and regulations - now that is a different story.

   Make sure your remediation contractor is certified and knowledgeable about the safe remediation of your home. Otherwise, the contractor could do more harm than good. Airborne contaminants multiply many times over, when contaminated building materials are removed. This could cause damage to unaffected areas, and unnecessary exposure to building occupants. Your contractor should make use of negative air to manage airflow from clean areas to dirty work-zone areas, and the work-zone areas should be contained / separated from unaffected areas.

   It may cost a little more to hire a qualified contractor, but and ounce of prevention is worth many pounds of cure.

Whether its water damage, fire damage, mold damage or even biohazard remediation, small scale or a large loss, you can rely on SERVPRO of Plantation's qualified Mold,  Fire and water damage specialists to give you peace of mind knowing we'll arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened". Call us anytime at 954-733-1006

RealGreen, Real $ Savings

7/13/2016 (Permalink)

Would your commercial property like to save money-- potentially thousands or tens of thousands of dollars per year-- on electricity bills every year. . . with little or no up-front cost?

 At SERVPRO of Plantation we are part of the BETA test group to roll out this incredible program nationwide. It's hard to believe how simple some of the initiatives can be, with little or no negative impact on the work space . . . and in some cases improvements to existing facility quality.

     The energy analysis / recommendations are free to our commercial property manager clients, and just another way we're able to help clients do their jobs!

Whether its water damage, fire damage, mold damage or even biohazard remediation, small scale or a large loss, you can rely on SERVPRO of Plantation's qualified Mold,  Fire and water damage specialists to give you peace of mind knowing we'll arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened". Call us anytime at 954-733-1006

Ozone Generators: Good for Deodorization?

7/13/2016 (Permalink)

Should ozone generators be used to reduce odors in homes/businesses?

Ozone generators, properly used, can effectively combat odors. But used inappropriately, they can cause health damages. Ozone can cause immediate and possibly permanent damage to your respiratory system. It is dangerous to breathe.

I mention this because we were called to a condo recently where a fire had taken place. The association's restoration contractor, a competitor of ours, placed an ozone generator IN THE COMMON AREA HALLWAY, spewing out poisonous ozone gas for all to breathe. Obviously, they had placed the machine 1.) to reduce odor; and 2.) they could bill for it.  In practical matters, however, this means anyone who was in the hallway was breathing this poison, exposing themselves to serious and potentially permanent health risks. Additionally it was likely seeping under doorways, into AC returns, and so on, affecting the individual unit owners attached to the hallway.

Of course, we turned off the machine when we went in to inspect our customer's unit, and politely notified the property manager. The next day we went back to start the job in the unit we had inspected, and -- voila -- the ozone generator was turned back on, in the common area hallway. We were less polite upon the next notification to the property manager, as we had workers in the condo unit and have to protect their respiratory health. We continued to return, discovering the same machine pumping ozone into the breathing space.

Bottom line: Hire a restoration contractor who knows what its doing and doesn't maim its customers with poisonous gases

 

Whether its water damage, fire damage, mold damage or even biohazard remediation, small scale or a large loss, you can rely on SERVPRO of Plantation's qualified Mold,  Fire and water damage specialists to give you peace of mind knowing we'll arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened". Call us anytime at 954-733-1006

Mold Issues?

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

Mold may be good for blue cheese, but not for your home! We utilize state of the art equipment such as thermal imaging cameras and laser particle counters, as well as non-intrusive moisture meters to determine where water and mold damage are occurring. This inspection can determine if the issue is simple to correct or if additional testing is required by an Independent Mold Assessor.  Living in South Florida hurricane season rain can cause water intrusion in your home, leading to the growth of mold. When mold and humidity combine with organic material (such as dry wall or wood) mold can become a major health risk.  As a homeowner or business owner, you can help avoid suffering these health risks by taking advantage of SERVPRO of Ft. Lauderdale Norths complementary inspection.

If you keep asking yourself "Why do I breathe better when I leave my home or place of business?" Let SERVPRO of Plantation answer that question. 

Whether its water damage, fire damage, mold damage or even biohazard remediation, small scale or a large loss, you can rely on SERVPRO of Plantation's qualified Mold,  Fire and water damage specialists to give you peace of mind knowing we'll arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened". Call us anytime at 954-733-1006

Free on-site inspection, deductible assistance

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

Many property owners simply aren't sure if they have a water or mold problem. Say, for example, a neighbor in a condo upstairs had a leak inside their unit. Did the water fall onto your ceiling?  In between the wall cavities of your unit? Don't leave it to chance for heaven's sake!  Call us and we will be delighted to come check it out for you. Either we can put your mind at ease if there's no problem, or we can diagnose solutions immediately! We can do this at no charge. So there's no reason not to call!

Deductibles are also proving to be a problem for many property owners. We've been able to help many property owners understand how they can lighten this sometimes heavy burden, and sometimes even eliminate the need for out-of-pocket expense entirely. 

Whether its water damage, fire damage, mold damage or even biohazard remediation, small scale or a large loss, you can rely on SERVPRO of Plantation's qualified Mold,  Fire and water damage specialists to give you peace of mind knowing we'll arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened". Call us anytime at 954-733-1006

Breathing Concerns After a Fire

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

Soot is potentially very dangerous and can cause severe respiratory issues. Never enter a home without facemasks or other forms of respiratory filters, since breathing in soot can be very hazardous. If it has been some time since the fire, you may also be at risk of breathing mold spores or other biological matter. If it is not within 24 hours after the fire, mold, spores, and other potentially deadly contagions may be present, so you should hire a professional to help you clean up the areas with house fire damage. Even though smoke may not be visible, it may still be present in your home and cause subtle respiratory issues. Respirators or facemasks are always mandatory after a house fire. Let your professional restoration company’s contractors decide whether or not they are necessary.

Whether its water damage, fire damage, mold damage or even biohazard remediation, small scale or a large loss, you can rely on SERVPRO of Plantation's qualified Mold,  Fire and water damage specialists to give you peace of mind knowing we'll arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened". Call us anytime at 954-733-1006

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